The Muir Family Blog

Unseasonably Warm

2012-01-23T10:07:00.000-06:00

Texas weather is crazy but it feels especially crazy this year. It has not been super cold yet and last week we had an unseasonably warm couple of days. It was in the upper 70's, low 80's! It was so nice and we spent as much time as we could outside.

I love this weather but really wish we would have winter. Cole asks me every day when it is going to snow. Poor thing, I don't think he is going to get to see snow this year.

He Makes Me Smile

2012-01-23T09:20:00.000-06:00

This boy makes me smile every day. He is ALL Boy. If we are at home he never wears pants. He has no problem mixing Christmas jammies with Halloween socks. I love him!

Campbell: 10 Months Old

2012-01-21T10:27:00.000-06:00

Make it stop!!! You are growing up way too fast!! Even though I love each new stage in your life and can't wait to see what you will do next, I still miss the itty baby we brought home 10 short months ago. It's funny how watching you grow can make me incredibly happy and super sad all at the same time. I need to get used to the fact that there will not be any more babies in this house because you are very quickly becoming such a big girl.

You love to laugh, especially at your brother. He gets you giggling better than any one else. We love how your eyes sparkle all the time. You are such a jolly girl!

This past month was very eventful:

You started pulling up on your knees
You got your first tooth
You started eating table food
You celebrated your first Christmas
You moved into a new house
You ate and loved black-eyed-peas to ring in the new year
You moved out of your highchair and into a booster seat at the table
You got your second tooth
and
You say "dye-dye" when you wave bye-bye.

Your first Christmas was so much fun! You were totally into unwrapping your gifts and seeing what was inside!

You were such a trooper and such a big "help" while we packed up our old house and moved into our new home. It was pretty chaotic for a few days but you and your brother were amazing. You have settled in and love your new room!

Your teeth gave you some trouble while they were coming in. Night time was rough but you survived it!

You love table food. Period.

We are just waiting for you to pull all the way up to a stand. You get to your knees and then stick one leg out like you are going to push yourself up but haven't done it yet. Any day now you are going to be cruising around the house.

You are such a great shopping and dining buddy. We go every where and you just hang out. We have been blessed with two chill kids.

What else can I say. You are precious and we love you more than words.

Big Girl Chair, Big Girl Food

2012-01-19T12:19:00.000-06:00

I know this picture is blurry but I love it anyway. It is a picture of my big girl, tear, sitting at the table eating big girl food. At nine months old she turned her nose up at baby food and has been eating table food ever since. She is a good eater too. Her absolute favorite things to eat are Garden Veggie Lil' Crunchies. She also eats the following: chicken, ravioli, peas, carrots, peaches, pears, black-eyed-peas, black beans, Nutrigrain cereal bars, avocado, any kind of bread, pasta, bananas and more! The only thing we have found she doesn't like is refried beans....she made the most terrible face! Also, we haven't given her any dairy yet per Dr. G. Because she is on Soy formula he suggested we wait until her 1st birthday before we slowly introduce dairy to make sure she isn't allergic. Oh how we love this messy face! Hopefully this trend will continue and she won't be a picky eater like her brother, sigh.

We are Still Here

2012-01-15T09:43:00.000-06:00

Man have we been busy! I know this little blog has been neglected, but not by choice. Since moving into our new house we haven't had Internet so I can't access my pictures right now. To be honest I haven't had much to blog about anyway. We have just been busy getting our house put together, getting back into the routine of school and chasing after our kiddos. Hopefully this week I will be able to catch up so be looking out for the following posts:

The Move
Campbell: 10 Months Old
Big Girl Chair and Big Girl Food

The Muirs are on the Move

2011-12-28T10:22:00.000-06:00

Literally! December has been extra busy for the Muirs. Not only did we have Christmas shopping, Christmas activities and 3 days worth of Christmas celebrations; we also went to NYC and we are moving this week! I should also mention I did not pack a single box until the day after Christmas so we are running around here like crazy people! I am so thankful for my mother-in-law for coming in town to help us pack and paint and for my mom watching our kids so we can actually get things done. Our plan is to be completely out of our current house and into our new house by Thursday night....I will let you know if we make it and will share more info about the new house once we get settled in a bit!

Happy New Year!

Merry Christmas

2011-12-27T14:45:00.000-06:00

We are blessed! Santa was very good to us this year. Our day started bright and early. Santa left Cole a note and accidentally left his glasses! We opened presents and stockings and the kids had the best time! After a small breakfast we got ready and went to my parents for more gifts and brunch. Can you say spoiled?!?!

Cole got an air hockey table from my parents and was in Heaven.

Campbell and Gray both got monogrammed chairs.

Can you even stand how cute this tea set is?? My parents gave it to Campbell and it is just about the sweetest thing ever! I can't wait to have many many tea parties with my baby girl!

Thank you to everyone for our gifts and for spoiling my kiddos. We truly are blessed!

Christmas Eve

2011-12-27T09:10:00.000-06:00

I love Christmas Eve....who doesn't?!?! Our day began with the traditional opening of the Christmas jammies. Cole was so excited to open one present even if it was clothes. We showered and immediately got comfy in our jammies.

Then Nannette and Poppy, Great Grandma Stella and Great Grandpa Jones came over and I fixed a big lunch. The kids played, we watched football and just had a relaxing afternoon. It was great!

Then it was on to my parents house for our annual gingerbread house contest, good food and family fun! This year the contest was boys vs. girls and I hate to admit it but I think the guys won this year.

The girls did a more traditional house while the boys created The Ballpark in Arlington. It was so cute! Then we ate chicken chili and my mom made the most amazing adult dessert beverages.

This was one of the many outtakes from our cousin photo shoot.

We headed back to our house and Cole put out cookies and milk for Santa and sprinkled Reindeer food on our porch.

Then it was off to bed so Santa could come......

.....and believe it or not we decided to set our camera out to see if Santa would take a picture of himself in our house and he DID! When Cole saw the picture Christmas morning it blew his mind!

'Twas the Friday Before Christmas

2011-12-26T19:21:00.000-06:00

We had a jam packed Christmas weekend around here and I LOVED it! Friday morning while Campbell took her nap, Cole, daddy and I made and decorated cookies for Santa.

Then it was off to my sister-in-law's house for Christmas with RT's side of the family. I have to say it was a wonderful and weird feeling opening princess books and baby doll gifts during Christmas. I am so used to super heros, cars and sports stuff. It was such a fun contrast and something I look forward to for years to come!

Cole received the Super Hero Squad version of Shoots and Ladders and loved playing with his daddy, Aunt Dee and Great Grandma Stella.

It was such a fun, family filled day and a great way to start the Christmas weekend!

Kaufman Christmas Fun Day

2011-12-18T18:52:00.000-06:00

Saturday night we all spent the evening at my sister's house for some Kaufman family fun! We played Christmas trivia games, made a hand print painting for my parents and ate a delicious dinner prepared by my sister. We had planned on decorating Christmas cookies and watching a Christmas movie but we ran out of time....the babies were ready for bed. We had such a fun time hanging out as a family doing all things Christmas!

Cole "won" the first trivia game

Gramps won the second game

Mimi won the third game

Here is our Christmas tree painting. It has every one's hand print and the string of lights are our thumb prints!

Happy Birthday Jesus!

2011-12-16T13:18:00.000-06:00

At school on Thursday, Cole had Christmas chapel and a Happy Birthday Jesus party and parents were allowed to attend. Can I tell you I had to hold back the tears while watching my baby sing while doing the hand motions so enthusiastically during chapel? It was just about the sweetest thing I have ever seen. I loved see him in his element and catching a glimpse into what his days are like when I am not around. He truly LOVES school!

After chapel we were invited back to his classroom for their Happy Birthday Jesus party. They made place mats, sweat shirts, ornaments and had a cookie exchange. Cole also made a snow globe for me and RT. It was such a fun, sweet day celebrating the true meaning of Christmas.

Cole giving Ms. Cheryl her Christmas present.

Cole and Ms. Peggi after he gave her her Christmas present.

Christmas Cutie Part 2

2011-12-16T13:07:00.000-06:00

She's just SO DANG CUTE!

Campbell: 9 Months Old

2011-12-16T09:18:00.000-06:00

Little Miss Priss, oh how we love you!

You are so funny. You make "cabbage patch" faces all the time. You always have your tongue sticking out and your legs are always kicking. You smile and giggle and chat all the time. You are jolly!

At the same time you are strong willed and judgemental. You can give nasty, disapproving looks. It makes us laugh now but we will definitely work on not being tacky later.

You had another eventful month. Here is what you have been up to:

- You went on your first road trip and did great! We drove to Austin to visit friends and meet baby Emery. You were a pro in the car but did not like sleeping in the pack'n play.

- You started waiving bye-bye.

- You bumped your head and got your first boo boo.

- You started crawling! You are everywhere and I love it!

- We found out you don't like it when people wear hats or put things on their heads. You are scared to death.

- You celebrated your first Thanksgiving and had your very first bite of table food, Sweet Potato Casserole!

- You ate your first baby snack, mum mums and have since eaten puffs and love them both. You can even feed them to yourself.

- Maybe my favorite thing you did this month was say mamama and you associate it with me. When you are looking for me you crawl around saying, "mamama" until you find me and then you get so excited and kick your legs like crazy!

- You started putting the TV remote and your play phones up to your ear when we say, "Hello!". You get the biggest kick out of it.

- Last but not least you started pulling up on your knees and you think you are so big. You want to reach everything so bad! Before we know it you will be cruising around the furniture. Heaven help us!

You are a great sleeper. You sleep about 10 hours a night and you take a really good nap in the mornings and another shorter nap in the afternoon. The saddest thing you have done lately is you don't really need to be rocked at night anymore. Once you finish your bottle instead of letting me rock you for a while you have started reaching for your crib. I kiss you and tell you I love you and lay you down. You wiggle for a minute until you find the right spot and then you are out. I am so happy it is so easy to put you down at night but so sad you don't need my help to fall asleep anymore.

At your 9 month check up with Dr. G you started crying the second he walked in the door for the first time. Other than that you did a great job and only milked getting a shot for a short time. Here are your 9 month stats:

Weight: 22 lbs. 5 oz. (95th percentile)
Height: 27.8 inches (75th percentile)
Head: 17.3 inches (75th percentile)

We love you baby girl! We can't believe you are almost one. Make it stop!

Cole is 4

2011-12-15T14:47:00.001-06:00

WOW! Four years old! How is that even possible?!?! I swear you were born yesterday and now you are a smart, funny, independent, strong willed and energetic four year old.

You love to "help" me do ev-ery-thing. You are a clean/neat freak just like me and love to help me clean the house. You are pretty good at putting your toys away and helping Campbell put hers away too. You do not like to be dirty. Your hands and face must always be clean...always, which is fine by me!

You are very particular about things, again, just like me. You always have to have a shirt on and it always has to be put on first when getting dressed.

You are very serious. We can have normal conversations with you and you always have really great, mostly funny, input. You think you are about 13 years old. You insist on doing everything by yourself. For the most part you can but when something comes up that I need to help you with it turns into a battle.

You are funny. So funny! Some of the things you say and do just crack us up.

You are sweet. You have such a tender heart and you get upset easily. You are super sweet to your baby sister. You play so well with her and get her things she needs. You still get upset when she gets upset. Your favorite thing to do with her now is to get your guitar out and play it while you sing songs to her. Melts my heart every time.

I know I sound like a broken record but you still love sports. You turn everything into a game and playing baseball, catch, football, golf and basketball are by far your favorite things to do. You play sports video games and prefer a ball or bat to a car.

Your latest obsession is Super Hero Squad.

You also love "shooting". You turn every thing into a gun. You will hide behind walls and surprise attack. I hope this is just a phase. I have to say I am not a huge fan of this. Boys will be boys I guess.

Bodily functions are hilarious to you. You are 100% boy!

You absolutely LOVE school. It makes me so happy that you love it so much. I love that I drop you off and you can't wait to see your teachers and your friends. It is so comforting knowing you are being so well taken care of.

You played soccer this year and could not have loved it more. You learned a lot about team work and good sportsmanship. Daddy and I loved watching you play. You did so well and scored 4 goals during the season!

To say you love chocolate would be the understatement of the century. You would eat it morning noon and night. Again, something you got from me....a HUGE sweet tooth!

You still aren't a great eater. You will eat chicken in any form or fashion, carbs galore, cheese, milk, yogurt, applesauce, orange juice, sweet potatoes aaannnddd that's about it. At dinner you do have to take a bite of everything on your plate so have had green beans, peas, broccoli, carrots, corn, tomatoes, bananas and strawberries. We are really working on this!

We visited Dr. G for your four year check up and he told us you were a TALL BOY! You gained 4 lbs. and grew 3 1/4" in a year! You did great on your hearing test but the vision test was questionable. You either didn't fully understand what you were supposed to do or you my have a very slight vision issue. Chances are it is the latter seeing as your daddy and I are both legally blind. We think you will probably end up with glasses at some point. Dr. G said not to worry about it unless we see to squinting, otherwise we will reevaluate next year. Here are your stats (they basically say you are big):

Weight: 43 lbs. 6 oz. (95th percentile)
Height: 41 1/2" (90th percentile)

You love your daddy so much! He is so fun to play with and makes up the best games. We all like to snuggle on the couch and watch our shows together. You love to be read to and you love to sing. Your favorite songs are:

Jesus Loves Me
You Are My Sunshine
The Bumblebee song
Twinkle Twinkle Little Star
Good Life by One Republic

Mommy and daddy could not love you more. You bring so much joy and laughter to our house. We cannot wait to see what the next year will hold for you. It has been an honor to watch you grow!

Christmas Magic in NYC

2011-12-14T10:38:00.000-06:00

Last Monday thru Thursday RT was in New York for work and I was lucky enough to meet him there on Thursday for a little Christmas getaway! We stayed until Sunday and had the best time. New York is a magical city year round but it is extra special during Christmas time. I have been fortunate enough to have been to NYC twice before but Christmas really is my favorite time to go. Here is a rundown of what we did...

Thursday: We stayed at the New Yorker. When I got there on Thursday RT was still working so I dropped my bag off in the room and walked down the street to Macy's. I loved the window displays and thought it was so cool to be standing right where the Thanksgiving Day parade takes place. I met RT back at the hotel and we freshened up and headed out to meet our friend Nate (who works at Morgan Stanley in Times Square) for dinner. He suggested a place called Malatesta. It was amazing! Authentic Italian food by Italians that didn't speak very good English. We drank wine, stuffed ourselves with pasta and had great conversation. Then we headed to a bar for another drink before Nate had to catch the train home. By then I was exhausted from a day of traveling and a flight that left Dallas at 6:10 am.

Friday: We hit the ground running! First stop FAO. I mean, how can you go to NYC with out going to FAO! We shopped and shopped and picked out the most fun gifts for Cole, Campbell and Gray. I was like a kid in a candy store! We even saw Spider Man and Iron Man and may or may not have gotten in trouble for taking their picture. From there we went to Dylan's Candy Bar. It is 3 floors of candy, ice cream, cookies and cakes. Yum. Then we had lunch at my favorite restaurant ever, Serendipity. If you have never been there you MUST go. It is indescribable, quirky, small, always has a wait 2 hours long no matter what time of day you go. They are famous for their frozen hot chocolate and the food is always good. Next up was Barney's to see the Lady Gaga exhibit....it was weird. Then off to Central Park for a stroll and to see the Plaza. Amazing. Of course we went to Rockefeller Center and saw the Christmas tree. It is unbelievable. Then we headed to Time Square. We just soaked it up. It is just so cool. For dinner we ate at Lazzara's for dinner and seriously had the best Caesar salad and pizza I have ever had.

Saturday: We slept in. We ate breakfast at the Tick Tock dinner that was connected to our hotel. We took a cab to NoHo and bought Compost cookies, Crack pie and Candy Bar pie at Momofuku Milk Bar. Go there if you get a chance. Then we walked around Bryant Park. It was a magical place. We watched the ice skaters, saw the little Merry-go-round, shopped and I just loved it. We met my aunt, cousin and her two kids for lunch. They live in Atlanta so how crazy was it that we were in NYC the same weekend! After lunch we went back to the hotel, relaxed a little before getting ready for dinner at Shula's followed by Sister Act on Broadway! What a fun night!

Sunday: We had a VERY early flight Sunday morning. We were sad to leave but ready to see our babies. Thank you to my parents for taking Cole to school and to Cruse's birthday party while we were gone and for loving on both kiddos so well (as usual). I am pretty sure neither one of them missed us which is actually a great feeling because I know they were having such a great time!

I can't wait to go back! Thank you honey for such a wonderful getaway! I am so glad we had time for just the two of us during this busy season. I love you!

My Christmas Cutie

2011-12-12T11:01:00.000-06:00

Daddy Plays Soccer

2011-12-12T10:59:00.000-06:00

RT has been playing on an indoor soccer team for a while now but we never get to watch him play because his games are late at night. So, when he had a make up game last Saturday at 5:15 the kids and I were excited to watch him play.....well, we watched him play for about 5 minutes. Before the game Cole helped his daddy warm up on the little practice field so that is where we spent most of daddy's game. Cole had an absolute blast running up and down the field and had sweat dripping down his face. He couldn't have been happier. Campbell liked having a little bit of freedom to roam and I could keep my eyes on them and watch RT play at the same time. Hopefully he will have another early game soon so we can cheer him on!

The Muir Family North Pole Breakfast

2011-12-06T05:32:00.000-06:00

Saturday morning we had our very first North Pole breakfast thanks to our family Elf, Dirk (and Pinterest). He decorated our table, brought snow covered donuts, Santa pancakes, Reindeer food for Christmas Eve and hot chocolate with glaciers floating in it. He even wrote the kids notes and brought them little sussies. It was so much fun! Dirk did and outstanding job with everything! We are so lucky he was assigned to us a couple of years ago!

Oh how I love Christmas even MORE now that I see it through their eyes!

Santa in the Flesh

2011-12-03T15:36:00.000-06:00

As you can tell, Campbell wasn't a fan of the Big Guy. It was their first meeting and she just couldn't handle Santa's beard. Every time she turned to look at him she would start crying and then she would stop until she turned to look at him again. It was sad and funny at the same time! I have to admit I was laughing. You can't tell from this picture because Cole is upset that Campbell is upset, but he liked Santa and discussed the bike he wanted with him. After we said goodbye to Mr. Claus we had our own little photo shoot and by then everyone was all smiles!

Sweet brother and sister. I could just eat these two up!

She's on the Move

2011-12-01T19:45:00.000-06:00

This precious baby girl is crawling! She started about 10 days ago and hasn't stopped since. Because of her new found freedom she has learned the word "no" very quickly. Her new favorite activity is pulling all of the DVD's out and of course she love the Christmas tree. She keeps us on our toes and we wouldn't have it any other way!

Thankful on Thanksgiving

2011-11-26T08:37:00.000-06:00

For the first time in my 31 years I traveled for a holiday, and it was fun! My in-laws moved to Texarkana so we visited them for Thanksgiving this year. We drove there Wednesday morning and stayed through lunch on Thanksgiving Day before driving home to spend the rest of Thanksgiving Day with my family. We had fun during our short little trip......

We fed the geese and ducks...

We saw Arthur Christmas...

We played games.....

We played with some of daddy's toys from when he was little....

We took family pictures......

And We stuffed ourselves before getting in the car and driving home. When we got to my parents we immediately took more family pictures so we could put comfy clothes on to relax in the rest of the day!...

Campbell and Jake had several deep conversations....

I made sure Campbell did not miss out on the traditional Thanksgiving feast....

and aunt Kori bought these precious headbands for the littles. Let's just say this little photo session was hilarious!

I am so thankful for my family! I am thankful that so many people love my kiddos! I am just thankful for everything. Period.

Finger Food Feast

2011-11-16T09:35:00.000-06:00

Yesterday, RT and I had the privilege of attending the Finger Food Feast at Cole's school. It was just about the cutest thing I have ever seen. The tables were decorated so cute, Cole made such an adorable little Indian and watching him on stage singing all the words and doing all the hand motions melted my heart! He looked like such a big boy up there with his class.

Cole made the sweetest placemat, vase and pinecone turkey.

Cole's biggest fan! Watching bubba sing sweet songs!

Our precious little Indian!

Cole singing with his class. Funny story: In the middle of the first song Cole saw his daddy walk in and started yelling, "daddy, daddy!!!" with his hands in the air while everyone else was singing. It was so cute, he was so excited and thankfully I got it on video.

I am so thankful this is the first of MANY school programs that I will attend. I LOVED it!

These Are a Few of HER Favorite Things

2011-11-15T15:37:00.001-06:00

Campbell: 8 Months Old

2011-11-11T19:00:00.001-06:00

Sweet sister you are such a joy! We love you so much and cannot remember our family with out you! You bring so much laughter and love. Your sweet giggle is contagious! You are curious and observant and want to be involved in everything. Cole never got into things he wasn't supposed to. He was pretty content just playing with his toys....we think you are going to be different. As you are on the verge (it is really going to happen any day now) of crawling we just have a feeling you are going to be the child that gets into everything! You are going to keep us on our toes for sure....it's your personality and we love it!

This was a busy month for you:

- You went to the State Fair
- You went to the Arboretum
- You got your second cold
- You learned how to clap
- You celebrated your first Halloween by dressing up like a flamingo
- You learned how to hold your own bottle
- You went to bubba's soccer games
- You celebrated bubba's 4th birthday
- You learned how to go from laying down to sitting up all by yourself
- You started rocking on your hands and knees
- You started reaching for me when someone else is holding you

You LOVE Cole. I know that statement is redundant but he really is your favorite. You seriously never take your eyes off of him. He is fascinating to you and you want to follow him around so bad! He makes you belly laugh more than anyone else. It's almost as if you two have your own little language going on.

You are sleeping so much better these days. You are consistently sleeping through the night and taking 2, 2 hour naps during the day. Thank you Lord! You are a pretty good eater. You typically eat cereal and fruit in the mornings, a veggie in the afternoon and a chicken, pasta and veggie meal in the evenings. You are drinking less milk during the day and we are working on mastering the sippy cup.

You wearing size 12 month clothes and size 4 diapers.

Rocking you to sleep is hands down my favorite part of the day. You snuggle close and make the sweetest sounds. You are the best shopping partner and you have perfect table manners when we eat out. I love that you are so go-with-the-flow. Daddy and I were blessed with two very easy babies!

Thank you for being such a sweetheart! We love you to pieces!

Cole's REAL 4th Birthday

2011-11-11T11:00:00.000-06:00

We had so much fun celebrating our sweet 4 year old on his birthday, 11/9. He was so excited about his REAL birthday. We started the day off with a cinnamon roll breakfast complete with candles and the birthday song.

After showers and baths he decided he wanted grilled cheese for his birthday lunch (not much different than every other day but it was his choice!)

Then Campbell and I watched him play in the play area at The Shops at Willow Bend. My mom and Kori met us there and we did a little shopping before heading home to meet daddy.

Daddy left work early so we could take Cole to pick out his Birthday surprise. A new fish! He has been missing his old fish, Dan, for a while now so we thought a new fish would be the perfect surprise! He was SO EXCITED and kept telling us he loved his new fish! He named him......drumroll please.....Dan!

Then he picked what he wanted for dinner. He wanted chicken from "Chick-A-Way" so that is what he got!

After dinner we went home to put Dan in his bowl and watched him swim around while we waited for Mimi, Gramps, Kori, Jon and Gray to come over for cake and presents!

What a lucky little boy to have so many people that love him and bought him presents!

He specifically asked for a Transformers cake and was so excited to blow out his candles!

Happy 4th Birthday sweet love!!!!!

I Adore Her

2011-11-11T10:16:00.000-06:00

This sweet face makes me smile on a daily basis. I love her to pieces!

Birthday Celebration #2

2011-11-11T10:12:00.000-06:00

Cole celebrated turning 4 with his friends at school on Tuesday. I brought cupcakes and juice for his class and they all sang Happy Birthday! He was so proud....just look at his face. He was also proud of the Captain America cupcakes he picked out and of his baby sister! Stay tuned for a post about his REAL birthday celebrations!

Birthday Fun at the Fire Station

2011-11-07T06:38:00.000-06:00

Saturday was a busy, super fun day! After Cole's last soccer game we went home to get ready for his 4th birthday party! He was so pumped! We had his party at Safety Town at Frisco Central Fire Station. It was such a fun party! The kids played on a firetruck, watched a fireman put all his gear on and drove jeeps all around the Safety Town streets. Safety Town is just about the cutest thing ever. All the buildings and signs are scaled down to kids size, work and are replicas of buildings you would see in Frisco.

Cole gave all his friends crayons that were shaped like a firetruck and a fireman hat and coloring sheets.

Cole standing under the street sign named after my dad!

Cole and McKenzie riding together.....a glimpse into the future......Cole driving a girl around.....so glad I have 12 more years before I have to see this again!

Thank you so much to everyone who came to the party! Cole is such a lucky boy to have so many great friends and people that love him!

Last Game of the Season

2011-11-06T10:37:00.000-06:00

Yesterday morning, bright and early, was Cole's last soccer game. It was early and it was freezing but he still had a blast! We are so happy that he loves to play. He asks us ALL.THE.TIME when his next soccer game is. He truly loves it!

He also won his SECOND Good Sportsmanship metal and was so very proud!

Then all his teammates were given metals for completing the season! He was so proud of his metals!

We finished the morning by eating our traditional after the game breakfast tacos at Fuzzy's one last time. RT and I are so proud of our little soccer player! We love that he loves to play!

Forever Friends...Eventually

2011-11-04T05:17:00.000-05:00

Last Sunday, Campbell and Gray played together for the very first time! Kori and I had been so excited for the day when our babies could sit on the floor together and play and talk to each other! Let's just say this was a priceless moment and the progression of these pictures makes my heart happy and makes me laugh until I cry!

Sweet little loves! They may not know it yet but they are going to be the best of friends....eventually.

Happy Halloween

2011-11-02T11:06:00.000-05:00

Halloween 2011 was the best! Cole really got in the spirit for the first time. He was totally into wearing his costume this year and loved telling everyone he was "Bumble Bee the Transformer" and that his sister was a "Faming-go". He was all about the candy (especially suckers). I have to admit I have never been a big Halloween person but this year might have changed things. They just looked so precious int their costumes and had the best time!

We went to the carnival at Cole's school and he had a blast playing games, jumping in the bounce house and sliding down a HUGE slide!

After the carnival we ordered pizza and my parents, Kori, Jon, Gray and my aunt and uncle and cousin came over with Shaelyn so we could see all the kiddos in their costumes! Cane you say adorable??

So much candy...so much fun!

World Series 2011

2011-10-29T12:48:00.001-05:00

Well......we still love you Rangers! It was a great and exciting season and you have acquired two fans for life!

I was able to go with my parents to game 5 (don't worry, my dad took RT and two other guys to game 4) and had a blast! The energy in the stadium was unreal!

I can't wait for next season...it will be here before we know it!

Halloween at School

2011-10-29T12:29:00.000-05:00

Having little kids during the holidays is just too much fun! Cole had a pumpkin hunt at school on Tuesday and I had more fun watching him in his school setting. He listened to his teachers, walked with a "bubble" in his mouth, found the perfect pumpkin and flew through the obstacle course.

He brought home the pumpkin he picked decorated as a cat and was so proud of it!

Then on Thursday he took the mummies I made for all his little friends. His teachers had a little treat bag for the kiddos and he was just so happy when I picked him up from school!

Stay tuned for the cutest costumes ever!

Our Soccer Star

2011-10-28T09:55:00.000-05:00

Cole had individual and team soccer pictures made a couple of weeks ago and we just got them back. Oh how I love this sweet picture. He looks so old! What I love the most is how much he LOVES playing soccer. He asks about it all week and is so pumped on Saturday mornings to play. He is learning so much about team work and sportsmanship. I look forward to many, many more Saturday morning games!

Fall at the Arboretum

2011-10-19T20:11:00.000-05:00

My mom and I took the kiddos to the Arboretum today because we heard the pumpkin displays were awesome....and they were! There were hundreds and hundreds of pumpkins, an endless amount of photo-ops and the pumpkin storybook houses were precious. Campbell was her jolly little self and enjoyed every minute. Cole on the other hand fell asleep on the way down there and was grouchy because we had to wake him up when we got there. My mom and I loved every minute of it and will definitely take the kids back next year! We thought it was so much better than a pumpkin patch.

State Fair Fun

2011-10-16T11:19:00.001-05:00

On Friday all the guys took off work and My parents, Kori, Jon, Gray and our family spent the day at the fair. We love it and Cole really got into it this year!

Cole ate his first Fletcher's corny dog.....

...and Campbell wanted some too.

He got his picture taken with "Bumblebee" at the car show!

Cole LOVED the fried pumpkin pie!

And he was super brave sliding down the HUGE slide! We were so proud of him!

He won a piggy for his sister.....

......and rode lots and lots of rides while Campbell watched!!!

He even made this on his first try and won 2 footballs! People walking buy were cheering and couldn't believe he made it!

And MY favorite thing we did this year was having our caricatures made. I LOVE it and it makes me laugh! I can't wait to frame it and hang it in the playroom!

The weather was perfect and the kiddos were such troopers. We were there for 6 hours and Cole wasn't ready to leave! Such fun family memories!

Campbell: 7 Months Old

2011-10-11T16:56:00.001-05:00

My thoughts exactly! How are you already 7 months old?!?! The first year really does fly by and I don't like it one bit.

You had many first this month:
- Sat it your highchair to eat
- Sat up with out the assistance of the boppy
- Had an ear infection
- Ate green beans
- Went to the nursery during mommy's bible study
- Drank from a sippy cup
- Sat in a highchair at a restaurant
- You and mommy got a stomach virus

You are generally content playing on the floor with your picnic basket and purse. When I have my morning shows on while you are playing you immediately pay attention to the TV when the plumbing or carpet cleaning commercials come on....you love their jingles!

You talk all the time. Dadada is your favorite thing to say. You also make sounds that we call your "pterodactyl sounds" because that is the only way to describe them. They make us laugh so hard!

So far you haven't met a food you don't like. You suck it all down!

We don't go to the doctor until next month so I don't have official stats but I think you have maintained your weight but you have definitely gotten longer.

You love to grab everything....I mean everything.

You are such a sweet girl and we love you more than words.

Perfect Sunday

2011-10-03T10:47:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was a perfect day. We watched the Cowboys, decorated Halloween cookies and played outside. My dad cooked grilled chicken and roasted veggies for dinner and it was amazing. The weather could not have been more perfect. Cole and daddy played soccer and then played Frisbee with uncle Jon. We had a little photo shoot. The sun was shining and there wasn't a cloud in the sky. Perfect!

Oh how I love those faces more than anything in the world!

Proud Parenting Moment

2011-10-03T10:08:00.000-05:00

Cole received the Good Sportsmanship Medal at the end of his soccer game on Saturday! We are so proud of him! He had a blast again and we are so proud of how hard he plays and how he really wants to get involved.

Sweet Siblings

2011-09-27T15:58:00.000-05:00

He PROTECTS her.

She ADORES him.

They LOVE each other so much already.

I'm Officially a Soccer Mom

2011-09-26T10:27:00.000-05:00

On Saturday morning I officially became a soccer mom! Cole had a blast which is the most important thing and they won their game! He played great and actually looked like he knew what he was doing out there. It was just about the cutest thing we have ever seen! He looked so grown up in his soccer gear and he told us, "my shoes made me super fast!"

At the end of the game the parents made a tunnel for the kids to run through after they gave each other high fives. They thought is was really cool and so did I!

Cole had his own little cheering section. Aunt Kori, uncle Jon and Gray surprised him by showing up on the sidelines. Mimi K and Gramps were there too! What a lucky little boy to have so many fans there to support him!

When the game was over he asked if he could play again....right then. We had to explain to him that his game was over but that he would play again next week. I think he would have played all day long if he could! The game was at 9:00 am so after we went to Fuzzy's for breakfast tacos. Cole just kept talking about the game and how much fun it was! RT and I are so excited he liked it that much and look forward to MANY games in our future...this is just the beginning!

Yummy in my Tummy

2011-09-22T06:15:00.000-05:00

On September 19th Campbell ate veggies for the first time. She had been eating cereal with bananas mixed in for a couple of months but we started solids and the green beans were a success. She didn't really know what was going on at first but then she devoured the whole container. This girl loves her food!

Campbell: 6 Months Old

2011-09-20T18:56:00.000-05:00

My little lady oh how sweet you are! You are such a love bug.....and a toot at the same time. Your personality shows more and more each day and you are both tender hearted and strong willed. You are going to be a handful and will definitely keep us on our toes.

In the past month you went from sitting up while relying on the boppy for support to sitting up like a big girl all by yourself. Your favorite place to play is sitting on the floor with your picnic basket next to you. You DO NOT like the exersaucer, jumperoo or bouncy seat any more.

You started giving "kisses"! Definitely my favorite thing you do. You grab my face, pull it to you and plant a big slobbery kiss on my cheek. Melts me every time.

You also suffered through your first cold. It messed up your sleeping habits and now we are trying to get back on track. Then at your 6 month check up with Dr. G (9/13) we found out you had an ear infection. You had been a little extra fussy for a couple of days but I just thought you had teeth coming in. Turns out it was your ear and after a round of antibiotics you are all better!

We brought the highchair back out and you sat in it for the first time this month. You didn't know what to think at first but now you associate it with food so it's all good.

You were a hoot during our visit with Dr. G. He loved that you were sitting by yourself and how active you were. You did not sit still the whole time he checked you out and you even tried to pull his stethoscope out of his ears while he was listening to you breath.. You received an A+. Here are your stats:

Weight: 20 lbs. 5 oz. (off the charts)
Height: 26 inches (75%)
Head: 16.8 inches (75%)

You are going to be a handful. You grab EVERYTHING. You want everything in your mouth and you don't like it when we take things away from you.

You never stop moving. You wiggle and twist and roll all over the place. You are way more high maintenance than your brother ever was and I wouldn't change it for the world.

Your giggle/belly laugh is the best sound ever and we hear it several times a day! Cole makes you laugh the most and I love it!

You are sweet and cuddly and precious and we love you to pieces!

FINALLY......

2011-09-10T10:10:00.000-05:00

Cooler weather!! And when I say cooler I mean mid 80's to low 90's. After the record amount of days with temps like 112, 115, 118 this summer these "cooler" temps feel great! We were finally able to go outside and not sweat to death. We strolled the neighborhood and it was so nice!

Cole "walked" Finn and Campbell and I chilled while daddy and Cole ran up and down the HUGE hill at the end of our street.

It was so nice to be out of the house enjoying the outdoors. After the crazy hot summer we had Fall cannot get here fast enough! Bring on the frigid temps! I'm ready!

The First Day of Pre-School

2011-09-08T20:14:00.000-05:00

Today was Cole's first day of pre-school. To say he was excited would be a lie. It didn't help that we had made it through the spring and summer months without getting sick and he came down with a cold and fever on the Monday before school starts. We will blame his lack of enthusiasm about his first day on the fact that he wasn't feeling 100%. We did begin our day with a donut breakfast just like we did on his first day of school last year. This lifted his spirits a little.

Then we got dressed and headed outside for the annual 1st day of school pictures! He looks SO old to me here!

Once we made it to school he was finally getting excited. He marched to his classroom like he owned the joint. It made me so happy that he was remembering all the fun he had last year.....I told him this year was going to be even BETTER!

He found his hand that he wrote his name on himself at meet the teacher night and put it in the box for safe keeping and then couldn't wait to get to the puzzle table. He was over me taking his picture so daddy, Campbell and I told him bye and there were no tears.....from him or me!

Campbell and I enjoyed lunch, shopping and meeting up with Mimi, Kori and Grey for a little snack out on the patio before picking him up at 2:00. Campbell was a little confused in the car all day. I could see her trying to see her bubba in his seat and he wasn't there.....she was SO excited to see him after we picked him up!

When I got to his class they were having story time and he jumped up and ran to me when I peeked my head in. He said he was the lunch helper and helped pass out everyone's lunch boxes! He had "book time", played on the playground, had music class and went to church. On the way to the car he said he had fun and that he had a "long day"! I'd say so...this is him before we even got out of the parking lot:

He took a nap at home for the first time in FOREVER and when he woke up he opend his 1st Day of School sussies (just like last year) from mommy, daddy and Campbell and his basketball game from Mimi.

It was a successful day! We are so proud of him and can't wait to watch him grow, learn and mature during this school year!

Happy Birthday Gramps!

2011-09-08T19:18:00.000-05:00

My dad turned 5__ on September 2nd and we had so much fun celebrating him! There was swimming and dinner and of course a homemade cherry pie and lemon chiffon pie via my mom. YUM! We showered him with gifts (Cole did a great job "helping" him open his gifts) and sang happy birthday! It was a bit of a late night so the babies were all in their jammies for picture time! I love you dad and Cole loves his Gramps!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Squeaky Clean

2011-09-03T08:48:00.000-05:00

Cole and Campbell took their very first bath together last night and they had the best time! I realize there is a very small window of time that it is ok for them to bath together so i am going to take advantage of the cuteness while I can.

They had a blast. Campbell loved sitting up in the tub and being able to kick her legs and splash in the water! Cole loved pouring water on his sister and making her laugh! I see many silly bath times in our future!

Daddy's Girl

2011-09-01T14:25:00.000-05:00

Tiny Hands

2011-08-25T19:57:00.000-05:00

There is just nothing sweeter to me than baby hands and baby feet. I love how tiny they are...it just amazes me! So here are my hands with my babies hands. These pictures make me so happy!

Campbell's hand at five months old (August 2011)

Cole's hand at one month old (December 2007)

Big Girl

2011-08-25T19:37:00.000-05:00

Campbell is really getting to be such a big girl! Look at her new "trick" as Cole likes to call it. She is sitting up really well with the boppy behind her for just a little bit of support. It won't be long before she is sitting all by her self!

"Cousins are childhood playmates who grow up to be forever friends." - Anonymous

2011-08-25T18:50:00.002-05:00

This picture makes my heart melt. I just know these precious cousins are going to be the best of friends!

Cole @ 3 3/4's

2011-08-18T15:17:00.000-05:00

This picture pretty much sums Cole up these days.

* He is ALL ABOUT the wii and can do it completely on his own.

* His favorite songs right now are Good Life by One Republic and anything by Zac Brown Band.

* He has tried lots of new foods including: broccoli, peas, carrots, bananas, plain noodles, sweet potato fries, chocolate milk, egg whites, french toast casserole, baked beans, potato salad and more!

* He has started rolling his eyes...not a fan.

* He never stops talking.

* He's into fighting, karate and shooting....also not a fan.

* He still loves sports and is excited to play soccer in a couple of months.

* He wears 5T shirts and pants and a size 10 shoe. He weighs 40 pounds and is 42 inches tall.

* He LOVES is baby sister.

* He is funny!

* He is kind hearted.

* We love him.

Campbell: 5 Months Old

2011-08-16T14:41:00.000-05:00

Sweet little chick-a-dee, here is what you are up to at 5 months old:

You are eating cereal and you like it ok. I have mixed a little bit of fruit in it and have found out that you LOVE bananas and HATE applesauce. I can't wait for you to start baby food next month! I am interested in seeing what kind of eater you will be!

You are rolling all around. You figured out how to roll from your back to your belly and now you are on the move. When you are on your belly you push your self up and straighten your arms then you will move your knees but you never do them at the same time. You want to be on the move so bad. Once you figure out how to put the two motions together you are never going to stop.

Speaking of never stopping....you NEVER stop moving, I mean NEVER. You are always wiggling in our laps or when we carry you. Even when you sleep you move. You twitch and twist and squirm in your sleep. You are wild!

You prefer to sleep on your side.

You are a talking machine. You talk most of the day and make the funniest sounds.

When you are hungry you mean business. You cry until you see or hear your bottle and then the legs get to kickin' and you just can't wait. You reach for it and pull it to your mouth. You are very close to being able to hold your bottle all by yourself.

If you are awake you must be sitting upright. You do not like to recline. You must be able to see what is going on at all times. I think you will be sitting up on your own in the next few weeks.

You found your feet and like to hold them when I change your diaper or when you are sitting on our laps.

You love any kind of remote control, especially your Sesame Street remote. You go crazy when you see it.

You put everything in your mouth. You put your blankie, shirt, sleeve, fingers, toys...in your mouth.

Your favorite songs right now are Patty Cake and I'm a Little Tea Pot. You smile and giggle when we do the hand motions.

You are usually in bed between 7:00 and 8:00 and you sleep until 3:30 or 4:00, I feed you and then you go back to sleep until 6:30 or 7:00.

You do not nap during the day. You sleep for about 20 mins twice a day and that is it.

You are a pretty good shopping buddy and you like it when we go out to eat for dinner! You are pretty go with the flow!

You are wearing size 3 diapers.

You wear 6-9 month clothes.

You have thrown 2 HUGE fits. I mean arched back, screaming, red faced make yourself sweat fits.

You are pretty dramatic about everything. I think I am going to have my hands full with you.

You are a happy baby 99% of the time and I love how your little personality is starting to shine through.

Your laugh makes me melt.

Cole is still hands down your favorite person. Period.

You have started grabbing my face and pulling it to you and then licking my check. I'm guessing this is your version of a kiss and I love it!

Basically you are too cute for words and a total joy! We love you Campbell!

Phone Pics: Part Three

2011-08-06T09:57:00.000-05:00

He NEVER picks fruit for snack.

Ready for summer in her sweet strawberry dress from aunt Kori

Pooped from his play date with the Ross boys

"Don't cry Campbell"

Cheeessse

The joys of being a boy in the summer

This is just the beginning Campbell

Campbell and Mimi K

That;s my girl

He LOVES playing washers with daddy

Scallywags! I cute place to get snow cones!

Phone Pics: Part Two

2011-08-06T09:28:00.000-05:00

Sweet Boy

Team Smith walking in the March of Dimes Walk

ummm...oops.

He doesn't realize they are girl sunglasses

Kung Fu Panda sussie

At her 2 month wellness check in the sweet dress Shannon gave her.

Girl talk on the couch

GO MAVS!

Sleepy girl

Phone Pics: Part One

2011-08-06T08:17:00.000-05:00

The other day I realized I had not downloaded any of the pictures I had taken with my phone since I got it for Christmas. So, I thought it was time to post them so they make in in my blog book

Shopping in downtown McKinney

I never knew there was a Campbell, Texas!

Hungry boy!

He loves the "twisted" slide at the park in our neighborhood.

Campbell at one day old

Going home!

One week old Campbell

This boy loves him some cupcakes!

Aren't They Lovely

2011-08-01T06:00:00.000-05:00

Words can not express how much I LOVE these pictures. We met our photographer, Sara, a couple of weeks ago for Campbell's 4 month photoshoot and I could not be happier with how the pictures turned out. Take a look at some of my favorites!

Good Morning!

2011-07-29T06:00:00.001-05:00

Cole's favorite new thing is to get Campbell up in the mornings or after nap time and say, "Good morning!" (said in a very high pitched voice) regardless of the time of day it is. It is so sweet that he is so excited to see her and is ready to show her what he had been up to while she was sleeping.

I just love these two!

Happy Birthday Mimi K

2011-07-28T11:10:00.000-05:00

Sunday was my wonderful mother's birthday! We celebrated by swimming, grilling steaks, eating the most amazing Coconut Cream Cake (anything coconut is her favorite) and laughing a lot. We had a great day celebrating the woman that goes above and beyond for us!

Happy Birthday Mimi! We LOVE you!

MMM, MMM, GOOD!

2011-07-21T19:54:00.000-05:00

Campbell ate cereal for the first time on Monday and was pretty indifferent about it. She didn't love it and she didn't hate it. She actually acted like it was not that big of a deal and had been eating cereal her whole life. Silly girl! One thing we do know is the girl can eat. So far I have mixed bananas and applesauce with her cereal and she sucks it down. I love this phase....feeding her with a spoon is such a fun new way to interact with her!

mmmmm...good!

What's the big deal??

Already a pro.

He Writes

2011-07-17T10:22:00.000-05:00

I don't know why it has taken me so long to post this! Cole has been writing his name now for several months! We are so proud of him! He is really turning into such a big boy!

Campbell: 4 Months Old

2011-07-17T10:00:00.000-05:00

My sweet little chick-a-dee,

You have changed so much over the past month. You are so alert and interested in everything going on around you. You don't want to miss out on anything! Your smiles and giggles have become even bigger over the past month and you are the sweetest baby!

You have really found you hands lately. You love to put them in your mouth and suck on them! Your hands are always in your mouth!

Now that you have found your hands you are reaching and grabbing and holding things now! You like touching my face, holding onto my hair, your blanket and shirts. You are holding rattles and toys and putting them in your mouth.

You are a wiggle worm. You started rolling from your belly to your back and are so proud of yourself when you do! Even though you haven't made it from your back to your belly yet {you are VERY close} it doesn't stop you from getting from point A to point B. You wiggle around on your back and can cover some ground that way! You are a girl on the move already!

You have such a sweet disposition. You are all smiles when you wake up and for most of the day. The only time you are unhappy is when you are hungry or tired. Other than that you are a VERY happy baby girl!

You LOVE Cole the most. Period.

You are officially sleeping through the night. You have been off and on for the past 6 weeks but for the last two weeks you have slept through the night every night! You are like your momma....you love your sleep!

We had your 4 month check up after daddy and I got back from D.C. and you are doing great! You have met all the major milestone you are supposed to and will start cereal in the next couple of days. You got an A+ on your report card and Dr. G said he loved how happy you are! Here are your stats:

Weight: 17 lbs. 2 oz. (>100%)
Height: 24 inches (50-60%)
Head: 16.3 inches (75%)

You are a HEALTHY girl and definitely love to eat! We wouldn't trade your chubby thighs and cheeks for anything!

We love you to pieces! We can't wait to see what the next month brings!

Washington D.C.

2011-07-17T09:34:00.000-05:00

Last weekend RT and I headed to D.C. for a little work and a little play. He had a conference to attend for and I tagged along for a mini vacation! We left the kiddos bright and early with my parents Saturday morning and boarded the plane. Once in D.C. we grabbed some lunch downtown and attempted to see all the major attractions. However, it was HOT, a SATURDAY afternoon, during SUMMER VACATION so needless to say we didn't get to see much. It was so crowded...you couldn't park anywhere and did I mention it was too hot to just walk around for hours?? We saw a few landmarks and then called it a day.

The conference was held at the Gaylord so obviously that is where we stayed. Saturday night we ordered room service and watched a movie. It was so nice to just relax! Sunday through Tuesday was the conference so RT was in and out on those days. Sunday I stayed in bed all day!!! I literally only got up to answer the door when room service delivered food! I watched TV, napped, read and napped some more. It was amazing! Monday I had a spa day all day and then attended a huge party with RT. Tuesday I shopped and lunched until RT was done for the day and we headed back to the airport.

The whole trip went so smoothly until our flight was delayed 3 hours and eventually canceled {stupid American Airlines} so instead of getting home at 7:00 we got home on another flight at 11:00. It was a long day but we were still so thankful for our time away together. We couldn't wait to kiss the kids faces Wednesday morning! We missed them so much!

7:17 pm

2011-07-16T18:22:00.000-05:00

At 7:17 pm on July 16, 2005 we were pronounced husband and wife.

What an amazing 6 years it has been!

Bathing Beauty

2011-07-06T20:17:00.000-05:00

I mean, SERIOUSLY?!?! I might be partial but Campbell is one cute baby girl if you ask me!!

What a Spectacular Weekend

2011-07-05T21:06:00.000-05:00

What a jam-packed weekend we had! Here is a re-cap:
Saturday: We saw the much anticipated Cars 2 and it did not disappoint! We didn't have a sitter for Campbell so we decided she was at an age where we could still take her with us and wouldn't cause a scene. The girl did not make a peep the entire movie and stayed awake and "watched" the whole dang thing. She drank one bottle and was happy as a clam the whole time. I was completely prepared for RT and I to rotate hanging out in the lobby with her but she was a total trooper! We all LOVED the movie! After the movie we ate at Blue Goose....it was a scorcher on Saturday so the frozen margarita I had really hit the spot!

Sunday: We headed to "Gramps' lake" aka Lake Texoma for some fun in the sun! It was another HOT day so we were thankful that my parent's boat had a/c inside! We went for a boat ride that was so relaxing it put Campbell to sleep immediately! Cole did a great job driving the big boat, riding the jet ski, eating Popsicles and helping daddy drive the remote control speed boat. He absolutely loves being at the lake.

Monday: The 4th of July: We slept in a little bit and watched cartoons before getting ready and heading over to my parents for more fun in the sun. Kori, Jon and Gray came over too and we spent the day in the pool....it was the only way to stay cool! Then we had an all American dinner of hot dogs, potato salad, baked beans and fruit salad. We topped dinner of with an all American dessert, homemade ice cream and homemade apple pie by your truly! We are so thankful to be Americans, to be free and for the service men and women that protect our freedom!

Learning About the Value of a Dollar

2011-07-03T09:08:00.002-05:00

Cole started a new project this summer...CHORES! RT and I decided he was old enough to start helping out around the house and in return he would earn an allowance. Right now he earns $3 per week and we will bump it up to $4 when he turns 4 years old. Right now he is doing pretty simple, age appropriate chores. He gets to save $1, spend $1 and donate $1 at the end of each week. We are hoping he will learn you have to work hard for your money and that things cost money. We hope he learns to save and not spend every dime and that he learns to help others in need. So far he is doing a great job and getting to put a star in the completed box seems more exciting than the money!

Protective Already

2011-07-01T09:00:00.002-05:00

While Cole was watching his morning shows he snuggled up next to Campbell and out of no where said, "Campbell, I will keep you safe." Melt my heart! I hope he always feels that way about her and I hope she comes to realize how lucky she is to have Cole as her big brother. I love these two to pieces!

Bath Time Love

2011-06-29T08:52:00.001-05:00

Is there a child out there that DOESN'T love bath time?! And is there a momma out there that DOESN'T love the smell of a clean baby and the sight of her wrapped in her towel?! I can't imagine not loving that! I mean, just look at this happy, sweet smelling baby girl!

DIRK

2011-06-26T20:20:00.000-05:00

I CANNOT believe this picture. Talk about being in the right place at the right time! Even though we have season tickets to the Ranger games we were invited to sit in a box by my dad's best friend and his family. It happened to be the game that Dirk was throwing out the first pitch and our box just happened to be 6 suites down from Dirks box. We could see him out on his balcony from our balcony. It was awesome! Then uncle Jon became friends with the security guard and now I have a picture of my son and Dirk! SO COOL!

Uncle Jon said Cole was a little intimidated by Dirk's size and started backing away from him before the picture. Dirk just picked him up and put him on his lap which is why Cole looks like he has no idea what is going on. Such a nice guy!!! I will say it again....I cannot believe Cole had his picture taken with the MVP of the 2011 NBA Finals and World Champion Dallas Mavericks, number 41, Dirk Nowitzki. CRAZY!

A Weekend of Celebrations!

2011-06-21T10:24:00.000-05:00

What a fun and busy weekend we had! It was full of birthday celebrations and celebrating the amazing fathers in my life. Let me start by saying I did a terrible job photo documenting the weekend...boo. Friday night we went to RT's aunt's house to celebrate RT's cousin, Travis' 21st birthday, RT's aunt Terri's birthday, RT's mom's birthday and my birthday. Then on Saturday morning we all drove to Oklahoma for an 80th birthday lunch for RT's grandma's sister and then drove back.

Because my birthday fell on Father's Day this year RT took me out to celebrate Saturday night. He completely out did himself!

We went and saw Bridesmaids. It was hilarious!!!

Then he took me to my favorite restaurant, Nick and Sam's. It is always delicious every time we go and this restaurant holds a special place in our hearts.

Then he surprised me with a pretty necklace from here:

Sunday morning he let me sleep in a little on Father's Day while he picked up donuts and brought home these amazing flowers for me! He also told me he ordered me a new, awesome vacuum....you have no idea how excited I am about that!!!

Then it was time to celebrate my amazing husband because he is the best father in the world. Cole and Campbell are super lucky! He opened cards and presents before we headed over to my parent's house for even MORE celebrating!

At my parents we continued my birthday celebrations along with my brother-in-law, Jon's, birthday that is the day before mine and we celebrated RT, Jon and my dad being amazing fathers!

We did the usual Sunday activities of cooking out and swimming but added birthday and Father's Day gifts along with a joint birthday cake for me and Jon.....it was our traditional Red Velvet cake from scratch and cream cheese icing from scratch made by my mom! It is sooooo delicious!!!

Whew...what a weekend! We are definitely blessed!

Campbell: 3 Months Old

2011-06-12T18:18:00.001-05:00

Sweet Miss Campbell,

Where do I begin?? You are such a sweet baby girl. We feel so blessed to have you as part of our family!

You are such a smiley girl. You don't just smile with your mouth either, you smile with your whole face. Your blue eyes twinkle and the sight makes us melt.

You started belly laughing this month and it is precious. Cole makes you giggle the most and I wouldn't have it any other way. He loves it when you smile and laugh at him and I love watching him try! You definitely love your big brother and I hope that never changes.

You had a lot of "firsts" over the last month:

You started sleeping through the night. You are a great night time sleeper but you only cat nap during the day. I'll take it!

We put you in the jumperoo for the first time and you love it. You bounce and bounce and smile! I think you think you are so big when you are in it.

You went to "gramps' lake" for the first time and were such a trooper. You just hung out in your bumbo seat and watched your brother play. I am glad you did so well because we will be spending lots of weekends there this summer!

You met your cousin, Gray, for the first time. Neither one of you really acknowledged each other but I know sooner than later you two are going to be best little buddies!

And last but not least you swam in the big pool for this first time and you loved it too. Just like your big brother you find it calming and cool and fun!

When you are sleepy you bury your head in my shoulder and I melt. It is my favorite thing you do. Then I swaddle you up and rock you to sleep. I can tell you I will miss it when you no longer need me to rock you to sleep. I love doing it. It is our quiet time together and it is so precious to me.

You are a great eater and have just recently gone from 4 oz. to 6 oz. per feeding. You are going to start cereal before I know it...aaawww stop growing so fast!

You are wearing 3-6 month size clothes and are about to out grow size 1 diapers.

One of my favorite things that you did this month is you have discovered baby dolls....yes, already. On a shelf above your changing table is my first baby that I got when I was a little girl. After I am finished changing your diaper I pick you up and you immediately look around until you find the baby and you just smile and get so excited. I take it off the shelf and hold her up to you and you just smile and stare at her. Then you will reach your little hand out and touch her. It is the sweetest thing and it amazes me that you already know that you love babies!

Time is going by way to fast! I want to freeze it. I want to bottle up the way you smell. We love you so much and are so thankful for you!

Back to Normal

2011-06-09T10:51:00.000-05:00

Its felt so good to have a normal Sunday family day at my parentslast weekend! Everyone was there {except for daddy who was at the MAVS game}! Yes everyone....Kori, Jon, Gray, me, Cole, Campbell and my parents! It was amazing! It was so nice to see my sister and her family of three in a normal setting, out of the hospital and just hanging out and having fun! It was a glorious day!

LET's GO MAVS!!!!!

2011-06-07T11:38:00.000-05:00

BEAT the HEAT

We are super excited for a win tonight so we can tie up the series 2-2. My husband went to the game on Sunday and will go again on Thursday....lucky dog! Also, to be clear we did not just jump on the MAVS bandwagon. We have been fans for years and my husband has had season tickets since before I met him.....we are the real deal! Hopefully the MAVS will win it all this time!!! Dirk for 3!!!

She Adores Him

2011-06-04T10:02:00.000-05:00

Campbell ADORES her big brother. In this picture Cole is singing You are My Sunshine to her and she is loving it. She seriously follows him around the room and watches every move he makes. She lights up and smiles so big when she sees him and he can make her giggle like crazy. It is just about the sweetest thing EVER!

Memorial Day Weekend In Pictures

2011-06-02T21:05:00.000-05:00

Our Memorial Day weekend began with RT and I taking Cole to see Kung Fu Panda 2 while my in-laws watched Campbell. He LOVED the movie and ate his beloved Junior Mints but when he saw the Cars 2 poster he said he wanted to see it instead. We explained that Cars 2 wasn't in the theaters yet but it would be very soon.....he asks me every day if he can go see it yet! After the movie we took Cole home and RT and I had dinner out, just the two of us. It was a nice treat!

RT played in a soccer tournament ALL DAY on Saturday so my mother-in-law watched the kiddos for a couple of hours so I could run a few errands. Then the kids and I just hung out the rest of the day. His first game was at 10:00 am and his last game was at 10:00 pm......he couldn't move on Sunday but we went to the lake anyway! My mom was out of town on a girls trip so we thought we would keep my dad company for the afternoon on the boat. It was Campbell's first trip to Lake Texoma and Cole was an old pro.

After a super fun day at the lake on Sunday, we spent Memorial Day at my parents grilling and swimming with my dad while my mom was still living it up in Savannah!

It was a family filled and relaxing long weekend. It officially kicked off summer and I am excited even though I hate the heat.

He Earned It

2011-05-24T13:47:00.000-05:00

We had been having a little problem with Cole not wanting to fall asleep in his own bed. He would fall asleep on the couch or in our bed and then RT would move him to his own bed. Then usually sometime during the night he would wake up and end up back in our bed. It was exhausting and needed to stop. So, I made him a sticker chart and explained to him that if he would go to sleep and stay in his own bed for 10 nights then he could get the scooter he had been wanting. It worked! He made it 10 straight nights! The other part of the deal was he had to continue to do this or his scooter would go back to the store. So far, so good!

He is so proud of his new scooter! He rides it all over the house and loves to go Lightening Fast!

Everyone is sleeping much better and we are proud of our big boy!

Round Two for the JUMPEROO!

2011-05-24T13:28:00.000-05:00

Well it seems as though both of my kids LOVE the jumperoo. It is definitely the best "big" purchase we made as far as baby gear is concerned. When Cole was itty he would bounce in it for hours and it looks as though Campbell is going to be the same way. At a little over 2 months old she is already sitting in it and using her feet to bounce her self. Yes...she is very strong! She has had excellent head control from day one and clearly has no problem supporting herself in the seat. What a big girl she already has become!

Pure joy on her sweet little face! The frog that hangs from one of the branches makes her smile so big!

Look at those cheeks! They are so kissable!

Campbell's Newborn Pictures

2011-05-23T07:00:00.001-05:00

Oh how I LOVE these pictures!

What a Difference a School Year Makes

2011-05-19T10:38:00.000-05:00

Wow! I cannot believe Cole has completed his first year of preschool. He has grown up and matured so much over the past year. He has become a full blown boy and no longer has "baby" tendencies. He has learned so much and I give his wonderful teachers the credit. He is more confident and inquisitive. He loved school and made new friends. School was so good for him mentally and socially and we could be happier with our decision to send him a year earlier than we thought we would!

First Day of School - September 8, 2010

Last Day of School - May 18, 2011

The last day of school was super fun! He had a chick-fil-a party at lunch, got to play with water guns, bubbles and sidewalk chalk during recess and watched a movie instead of nap time! What a treat!

He will truly miss Ms. Kim and Ms. Raquel and all his little friends over the summer!

2 months

2011-05-18T10:56:00.001-05:00

Sweet Baby Girl,

You are growing up right before our eyes! You are no longer a newborn and it makes me so sad....I just wish I could freeze time.

In the past month you have started smiling at us. Oh how we love that sweet smile. We will do just about anything to see it! You have also started "talking" to us and following us around the room with your head and eyes. You especially love to watch your big brother...he seems very interesting to you!

You are a great sleeper at night but not so much during the day. You have started sleeping from about 8:00 pm to 4-5:00 am. I feed you and put you back down and you wake up for good between 6:30 and 7:00 am. I definitely cannot complain about that. During the day however, you are a cat-napper. You sleep 10 mintues here, 15 minutes there. You are such a light sleeper during the day that the tiniest sound wakes you up and with a busy older brother it is rarely quiet in the house. Hopefully you will learn to love naps!

You were having some tummy problems so we switched you to Soy formula and you are now a happy camper. You are having normal dirty diapers now and are far less fussy. Yay! You drink 4 oz. at every feeding and you definitely LOVE to eat.

Speaking of eating you packed on some pounds this month. We recently went to see Dr. G and here are your stats:

Weight: 12 pounds 13 ounces
Height: 23 inches
Head:15 inches

You also received your first round of vaccinations. You were NOT a fan. You screamed and cried and carried on for a while. Then you had a rough day. Your little legs hurt and you ran a fever. It was a sad day for you and for mommy. Nothing made you happy!

You are such a joy. We love you to pieces! You love to cuddle and coo and smile and we cannot get enough. We steal your kisses all the time and are trying to cherish every moment of this great phase.

We love you so much Campbell Taylor and can't wait to see what you do over the next month!

Campbell and Gray Side by Side...Sort Of

2011-05-15T11:42:00.001-05:00

To top off the perfect Saturday we were already having yesterday, I got to hold Gray for the first time!!! My parents watched Cole and Campbell for me and RT so we could go over to Kori and Jon's....Yes you read that right...Gray is home! Because he was born so early and is still so tiny, per Dr. G, they have to be extra careful about germs. Gray cannot afford to get sick so no kiddos allowed. Also, because I had been holding my kids all day I had to put a robe on over my germ-y shirt. They can't take any chances. I was more than happy to do it so I could get my hands on the little peanut! He is SO SWEET! I could have snuggled all day!

Kori and I wanted so badly to take Gray and Campbell's picture together to compare their sizes. They are one month and one day apart in age but drastically different in size. But because of the germ factor they won't be able to meet for some time so we got creative. My mom gave Gray and Campbell the EXACT same bunny in blue and pink so we laid them next to their bunnies so we could compare the differences in their sizes. It makes me laugh...Campbell looks like a giant!

Gray at 1 month and 2 days old

Campbell at 2 months and 3 days old

They finally got to bring their baby boy home! It is so sweet to see the three of them together at their house, one their couch! I am so happy for my sister and Jon!

A Simple Saturday

2011-05-15T11:21:00.000-05:00

We had the best day yesterday. We started off with brunch at Breadwinners and then headed to the Farmers Market in Frisco. We had never been before so we thought we would check it out. It was kind of small but it was only the second weekend it has been opened so I think it will get bigger as the summer goes on. What was there looked amazing though. I ended up buying a watermelon, peaches and tomatoes. I can't wait to try them all.

After we shopped for fruits and veggies we let Cole run around. It was such a beautiful day. He and daddy ran and ran and checked out the cool water fountains while Campbell and I sat in the shade. It was so calm and peaceful and I loved it! I wish we could have more days like that. The weather was perfect!

Shopping Buddies

2011-05-12T11:43:00.000-05:00

This is the first of MANY shopping trips between Miss Everley and Miss Campbell They are such sweet little girlfriends already!

Thanks Babe.....

2011-05-10T21:09:00.002-05:00

.....for passing your beautiful blue eyes on to our children.

3 Years, 6 Months

2011-05-09T19:35:00.005-05:00

My oh my...how can it be?!?! Cole, you are growing up way too fast for me. When did you turn into such a big boy?? You are definitely not the baby that I still see you as and probably always will to an extent. Makes my heart sad but at the same time my heart is happy about the little man you are becoming!

You are definitely more active and energetic than ever before. You keep me on my toes. You love to run and rump and fall. You also love to stay busy by helping me clean the house....I cannot complain there!

You are an athlete. Period. There is nothing you love more than playing basketball, baseball, football, golf and soccer. This has remained a constant love for you since you were a tiny little thing. You think we need to buy every ball we see and even in a store full of every toy imaginable you pick out a bat or a ball or a club every time. I can't wait to see which sport you love playing, for real, the best! Will it be soccer like your daddy??

Now that the weather is warmer I can't keep you indoors. You are a warm weather kid for sure. You hate the cold and love the heat...opposite of your momma. We need a bigger backyard with more room for you to run a play!

You are getting into pretend fighting and shooting and superheros. You make guns out of anything....hangers, sticks, baseball bats, etc. I am not sure how I feel about this but I am sure it is a boy thing and as long as it is just for pretend I guess it is ok.

You are still the pickiest eater ever. You get this from your father. You refuse to try new things. Even when we offer you sweets like chocolate milk or ice cream that is not vanilla. It is crazy! I really, really, really hope you grow out of this!
You love bathroom talk. Tooting, pooping and burping are so funny to you and you like to discuss it all the time. Mommy is not so much a fan and I hope this phase passes soon....a mommy can dream right?
You are funny! You make us laugh daily at the things you say. Most of the time we wonder where in the world you came up with the things that come out of your mouth. You are such a joy!

At the same time you are becoming more head strong and defiant. You are totally into your independence and think you can do everything on your own. It is a daily battle and mommy fails on most days but we are working really hard on getting you to follow directions and not argue with us about everything. This to shall pass.

Most importantly you are the best big brother. You love Campbell so much and she loves you right back. You are so helpful! My favorite thing you do is repeat everything I say to Campbell in a high pitched voice. It is so cute! Campbell is one lucky little girl to have a big brother like you.

Daddy and I love you more than words. You bring so much joy to our family! We couldn't ask for a better son! We can't wait to see what you do in the next six months. Pretty soon you will be a big 4 year old! Mercy me!

Mother's Day 2011

2011-05-09T12:40:00.002-05:00

Mother's Day began with brunch at my parents. I made our favorite egg, chili and sausage casserole and Kori and Jon brought the most amazing cinnamon rolls and sticky buns from Bread Winners. I mean look at the size of that thing! Don't worry, my mom, Cole and I shared it and it was A-mazing!
My mom opened her gift from us and the rest of the day we just relaxed. We waited for RT wo get back in town and I took a 3 hour nap. Happy Mother's Day to me!

I am one lucky momma!

Hanging Out With Gray

2011-05-09T10:52:00.005-05:00

Last Monday I had the privilege of meeting my sister at the hospital to hang out with Grey for almost 2 hours! I was able to see him get his temperature taken, diaper changed and to see my sister nurse him. It was great! He is almost 5 pounds of cuteness! He is doing so well! I am one lucky aunt!

Muffins with Mom

2011-05-04T17:46:00.005-05:00

Monday morning at school was Muffins with Mom. I was so excited! Mimi watched Campbell for me so I could give all my attention to Cole. He snuggled with me the whole time and was so proud of the things he made me. I loved them all! We ate muffins, of course, and the kids sang us a sweet song! Melt my heart!

One of the gifts was an interview and here is what Cole's said:

My Mom's name is Lyric.
She is 4 years old.
Her favorite place to shop is Target because she does.
If my mom was a princess she would be blue because she wears blue.
Things I like to do with my mom are: playing outside and pray.
I love my mommy because just because.

Celebrating Baby Gray

2011-05-01T10:02:00.003-05:00

Saturday we had the honor and privilege of throwing a sweet baby shower for my sister and Gray. We had so much fun planning this long awaited and very special day!

We chose an animal theme and we could not have been happier with the way it turned out!

We also chose to serve dessert only! We had mini root beer floats and a chocolate fountain along with cake, cookies, candy, caramel popcorn, cupcakes, gooey bars, hello dollies and more! It was a sweet tooth's heaven!

The sweet hostesses with Kori: Nancy, Melinda, Leah, me, Shannon, Kim, Kori, Shauna & Rachel

Me and my amazingly strong sister!

Check out the loot! Jon and Kori's friends and family were amazing. They received so many wonderful things and all of the large items you need for a baby. They are set!

The Royal Wedding

2011-04-30T08:38:00.007-05:00

What a historical day! I had been waiting to watch the royal wedding between Will and Kate for months and I LOVED every minute of it. I love weddings to begin with....I would get married (to RT of course) every year because I just love him and weddings so much! So this wedding was like the ultimate fantasy! Everything about it was perfect. Kate looked amazing. The dress, veil, tiara, hair, make-up, all of it was perfect. Will didn't look too shabby himself. I love the Royal traditions...the cars, carriages, horses, uniforms etc. It was just a dream. But I have to say the best part about it all was that they really do seem to be in love with each other. The way they looked at one another was beautiful!

I am so lucky that I was able to share this very special moment in history with MY little princess. Who knows, maybe Will and Kate will have a son soon!

Happy Easter

2011-04-27T08:41:00.004-05:00

Easter 2011 was extra sweet this year! It was the first holiday that we had BOTH kiddos! I have to admit seeing two Easter baskets on the fireplace was a little crazy to me. Anyway, the Easter Bunny visited our house and as usual he was super sweet to our kids. Then I made a special Easter pancake breakfast! Cole loved his bunny, egg and chick shaped pancakes with LOTS of syrup.

Then we headed over to my parents for more Easter fun! The Easter bunny left more goodies, we had our traditional Easter lunch of ham, potato salad, fruit salad, rolls and deviled eggs, Cole hunted for Easter eggs and died eggs with Mimi. It was a busy but fun day!

I am so thankful for the life we have because of Him. We are so blessed!

RIO

2011-04-25T08:42:00.001-05:00

We thought it was time to spend a little quality time with just Cole. He has been such a good boy and has done so well adjusting to Campbell. So, the Saturday before Easter we took Cole to see Rio. I am so glad we did! It is the cutest movie and Cole loved every minute of it! Heck, all three of us loved it!

After the movie we headed to Scotty P's for super yummy burgers. Cole was in such a good mood. I could tell he was loving the special attention. Then on our way home we stopped at McDonald's and bought 3 Rio toys. He hasn't stopped playing with them and likes to tell you what their names are and if they were good guys or bad guys in the movie.

Such a fun time! RT and I need to make sure we plan special outings for the big brother every once in a while. He deserves it!

Smiley Girl

2011-04-17T08:38:00.000-05:00

Campbell smiled for the very first time on April 16th! It is so beautiful.....we will do just about anything to make her smile! Melts my heart every time I see it!

Marching in Memory of Smith Randle Bailey

2011-04-16T15:10:00.005-05:00

Yesterday morning, bright and early, we boarded the Dart Rail and headed to White Rock Lake for the March of Dimes, March for Babies Walk. We walked in memory of my nephew, Smith. Cole was super excited about the "train" ride and then riding the "huge bus" from Mockingbird Station to the event.

Team Smith met in the Preemie Pit right by the stage and starting line. There were thousands of people walking. It was a HUGE event! We are so thankful for all of Kori and Jon's friends and family that joined us on the walk! I have to say I felt Smith with me all day.

After the 5 mile walk we boarded the train again and headed home to rest! I have to say, Cole and Campbell were rock stars the whole day!

I want to send out a special thank you to Joni Fleming for originally sponsoring Smith in the walk and allowing all of us to join her! We love Joni and the Fleming Family! I also want to thank Matt Poe for designing and printing our Team Smith shirts! We all looked great thanks to him!

We plan on making this walk an annual family and friends event! We would love you to join us next year as we help raise money for babies! Please visit http://www.marchofdimes.com/ for more information about their mission and ways to donate time and/or money!

Meet My New Nephew

2011-04-14T17:45:00.007-05:00

Gray Smith Bailey

April 12, 2011

12:28 pm

4 lbs. 1 oz.

17 1/2 inches

Don't let the cords and tubes fool you. Born via c-section at 31 weeks and 6 days, Gray is doing great so far. He has been breathing completely on his own and eating like a champ. Kori and Jon are able to hold him and we get to visit him often! He still has some hurdles to overcome before he can go home but all things considered he is doing well. Isn't he a cutie!! I love his hair and his little nose! I am one proud aunt!!!

Just Because She's Cute

2011-04-14T16:18:00.002-05:00

We LOVE her. She completes our little family.