SELF INSPIRED

Santa 2011

2012-01-02T20:05:00.002-06:00

Yearly Visit to See Santa

Halloween 2011

2012-01-02T19:57:00.003-06:00

This years choices were not a pair, but individual costumes.

Taylor chose a U.S.A Cheerleader Costume and was super cute!

Tyson was a S.W.A.T Guy and fit the part perfectly.

Matt wore his USA Hockey Jersey and rolled around on his skates all night.

They got TONS of candy and had lots of fun.

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Taylor posing

Tyson Makes a Good S.W.A.T guy

Daddy and Taylor supporting Team USA

Its fun to go Trick Or Treating with Cousins.

(Jillian the Pirate, Abbi the puppy, Taylor the Cheerleader, Shianne the Cowgirl, Tyson the S.W.A.T guy and Shelbie as Punky Brewster)

Wedding Festivities

2012-01-02T19:43:00.007-06:00

My Brother-In-Law got Married at the end of July. Matt, Taylor and Tyson were all in the wedding party and they all looked Fantastic. Matt was a Groomsman, Taylor was the flowergirl and Tyson was a ring bearer along with his cousin Chris.

I didn't have as hard a time shopping for something to wear as I had expected thanks to my sister. It was pretty funny though, neither of us buy dresses often.

The kids danced their hearts out and left late that night on tired feet.

It was a great wedding. Lots of Fun!

Congrats Mike and Katie

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Matt and I at the Reception

Proof that I was wearing a dress. Right before I had to change due to dress malfunction.

The Self Family

Me, Katie, Mike, Matt....Taylor and Tyson

After Ceremony before Reception

My Beautiful Little Flower Girl

The Handsome Little Ring Bearer. He had just woke up from being asleep in the car.

Taylor LOVED getting her hair all done up with MomMom (My MIL) Getting hers done in the chair behind Taylor's head.

Let the Process Begin

The Finished Product. It stayed put all day and when I took it down the next morning I pulled 30 bobby pins out of her hair.

First Grade

2011-08-17T08:35:00.003-05:00

Back to School time!

We went to Taylor's school for open house to drop off supplies and meet her teacher and see who was in her class. It was a success. We stayed for about an hour because Taylor didn't want to leave. She wanted to look at every little thing in the classroom.

She was super excited to see some familiar names and faces in her class. Including her best bud Colton. There are also 4 or 5 from her class last year (Alexis, Braydan, Cael and Dallas) that I recognized names for.

I think it is going to be a really fun year.

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This is Taylor with her new teacher Mrs. Frey

S.I.X

2011-08-11T15:59:00.003-05:00

Taylor was super excited for her birthday this year.....turning 6 is so much fun!

This year she will:

Play her 3rd year of soccer

Enter 1st Grade

*Possibly* Lose her first tooth...still waiting on that though!

We are all looking forward to watching her continue to grow and succeed.

I Love You Taylor!

Play Ball

2011-05-05T10:24:00.003-05:00

Last night was Taylor's first t-ball game of 2011. We traveled to St. Jacob. Taylor played really well. She hit great and fielded some balls. I couldn't have picked a better color. She wanted number 6 because she will be turning 6 this summer. It's going to be a fun year of ball.

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My All-Star

Little Slugger

Number 6

Happy Easter

2011-04-24T21:33:00.003-05:00

Happy Easter 2011

Taylor - Nearly 6 years old!

Tyson - 3 years old!

Frame By Frame

2011-03-12T19:19:00.005-06:00

After soccer today we decided to take the kids on an impromptu trip to the bowling alley. They did not know where we were going, but they were excited once we got inside. As soon as we got to the lane Tyson wanted to grab a ball and go. Never having bowled before ever he was great. He was so animated and excited and also a bit impatient (but what 3 year old isn't when it comes to doing something they want to do). I bowled a lot as a kid and its something I hope we can continue to do and do more often with our kids as well. The guy next to us asked how old Tyson was and said with that much passion he could do really well. They were entertaining everyone around us. I bet they would have done it all day if they could.

I had a great time spending the day with my family!

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Taylor and her ball, a 6 pounder. She would have loved the pink, but it was 8 lbs and we didn't want her getting hurt.

Tyson and the 6 pounder. He did awesome carrying that thing around and at one point even got up to the line and let the ball go before we noticed he had carried and used my 12 pound orange Garfield ball. Oops! Little Muscle Man.

Taylor was sporting some really good form in this picture.

Watching the first ball she rolled

Tyson mid jump watching his ball creep ever so slowly down the lane. I am going to try to upload video of him.

Big Feet for such a lil girl

Mr. Chunky Foot. He waddled somewhat like a penguin in these things and Matt asked if they were too big because it looked like he was wearing clown shoes. I really think it was just that they weren't as flexible as his tennis shoes.

Waiting for the ball to strike pins

Proud of his Roll

Taylor helping keep Tyson directed at the correct lane.

This pretty much described how he felt about bowling. He LOVED it. I should have snapped a pic of his big alligator tears after we told him we were done.

Taylor and Brady Meet Again

2011-02-19T15:47:00.003-06:00

In July of 2005 two of the cutest kids were born.

The first time they met they were toddlers.

The next time they met they had both become a big brother and a big sister.

Last night was their 3rd meeting. They played hard together. Laughed and got along great.

Brady has grown so much and is a sweet little boy. Who knows what the next visit will bring.

He requested we come to Tennessee to watch him play baseball someday and I intend on taking him up on that offer when we get a chance. Tyson really enjoyed having boys to run with and I think he and Dane could be the best of buddies.

Taylor said it best when she said "I had a super awesome time". Next time we may have to plan ahead and spend a day together.

Thanks for taking time during your visit to get together with us.

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Brady and Taylor

Brady and Taylor and their little brothers Dane and Tyson

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T09:57:00.003-06:00

This is the first year of many to come that Taylor gets to give out Valentine's at school. We worked on filling them out last night so that they would be ready to go this morning. There are 26 kids in her class, including her, so it was a lot of writing for these little hands, but she successfully completed them all. She took 2 extras in her pocket for two little boys that aren't in her class, but she played soccer with. She said they all play together at recess. They are good kids.

Happy Valentine's Day to ALL!

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Signing her name to all the Valentine's Before we write who they are to

Before school this morning with her little surprise from Mommy and Daddy

Winter Wonderland

2011-01-20T22:02:00.005-06:00

This morning we woke up to about 10 inches of snow. It was the perfect opportunity to take the kids out to play in it for the first time *EVER*

Our yard seems to never get any accumulation because of the winds that blow from the big open field behind us, but today that wasn't the case.

It took a little time to get prepped to go out, but once outside we played for about an hour and a half.

The kids, threw, kicked and crawled through the snow. Sadly, it was NOT packing snow so no snowman could be made. It also made our snowball fight rather pathetic, but we all had fun.

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My bundled up snow monsters ... Taylor's eyes are super blue in all this white snow. LOVE IT!

He was smiling from ear to ear and looking rather fluffy in all his snow gear

Taylor's snowball

Tyson's Snowball....it should be snowfall!

He had a tough time walking in snow up to his knees...Guess its hard being a little guy, but he trudged on.

See those Baby Blues peeking out from under that hat

When I realized Tyson did not own a scarf I had to improvise and cut the leg off a pair of old flannel pants. I'd say it did the job quite nicely.

I should have snapped a pic after they came in with their rosy cheeks and noses. I think they really enjoyed playing in the snow. Here's to hoping if we get more snow that it allows us to build a snowman and get more pics than I did today.

So it begins...

2011-01-15T19:28:00.002-06:00

Taylor attended her 1st friend birthday party today. It was for a little girl in her class. The party was at a really cool place called The Little Gym. Basically a gymnastic and tumbling place. It looked like a lot of fun. Taylor was being really shy and unsure of things at first, but then one of the girls that run the party helped her across the balance beam and her confidence shot up. Off she went. Later, they were playing duck, duck, goose and she got goosed, so she took off running and the clutz tripped and fell on her face. She cried of course, but she shook it off quickly and went back out there. I would call it a success. It is a glimpse into the future though because we are thinking about letting her do a friend party this year. Roller Skating, Bowling or some other fun stuff. Good thing we have until July to figure it out. I am definitely NOT ready for her to turn 6!

Snow Day Take Two

2011-01-12T10:34:00.003-06:00

Today is the 2nd snow day for Taylor. Yesterday it was because of the snowfall, but today it is road conditions and Freezing Temps. She woke up today and says "Mom, What about school?" So, I told her "I guess we missed it, we didn't get up in time" she says "awww, I wanna go to school" then I broke the news that there was no school today. I really think they could have gone yesterday and today, but I guess the amount of kids that depend on bus transportation it just wasn't safe enough. I don't remember getting out of school unless there was a ton of snow. Oh well, hopefully we aren't making up too many days come the end of May.

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These are some of today's activities

1st off was me breaking out the 50mm lens for some pics...it has been awhile and I forgot how

much I really love that lens

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We ate waffles

Taylor Practiced her Letters (the school way)

Tyson played his game (he doesn't really play it much, but likes to have it in his hands like the big kids)

Tyson grew out of his sleeper...Literally! He was really concerned about it.

They played with the Toy Story guys like they do everyday

One of Tyson's Best Friends

You can't see it, but the water was like a shower on the smurf he was holding.

Little Ducky ... I love his chubby little fingers!

Pooh seems a bit out of place

A Little relaxation. Taylor plays her game and Tyson watches on.

Happy 3rd Birthday Tyson

2011-01-06T19:59:00.003-06:00

Another Year Older Already

I can't even remember him being a baby

Happy 3rd Birthday Tyson...Mommy Loves You!

Born: January 6, 2008

9:30am

6 lbs. 11 oz.

18 1/2 inches

Giving Tyson Birthday Hugs

Celebrating Early

2011-01-05T21:54:00.007-06:00

We had Tyson's birthday celebration tonight with MomMom, PawPaw, Mike, Katie, Eddie, Linda, Jon and Chris. With conflicting schedules tonight was the best night to get it done. I cannot believe my baby boy will be THREE tomorrow.

In the last year Tyson has grown in to such a big little boy

He loves to play with Taylor

He loves to go outside

He loves Huggly

He loves everyone.....Except Katie (even though she should know he really does love her too)

He FINALLY started talking this year and hasn't stopped since

Some of his favorite things these days are:

His Blankey

Toy Story

Chuggington

Toy Story

Playing with soccerballs, footballs, baseballs ETC.

Coloring

Toy Story

His Thumb

HIS MOMMY .... oh and did I mention how much he loves toy story, I think you get the point!

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Tyson at 2 years 364 days old

Of course one of Taylor

He really loves the idea of presents this year. It made Christmas fun and he was excited tonight too

Chuggington Trains

Opening presents is serious business for this little boy! He rips a piece of paper off and throws it away. Then repeats until he gets all the paper off and then moves on to the next present.

I grabbed a cake at the store this morning. It was Delish!

Singing Happy Birthday. He loved that part too!

A piece for YOU!

Ready for bed in his new jammies. He will wake up tomorrow and be a year older. Time to go cry because my baby is growing up way too fast.

Starting off the New Year by...

2011-01-03T21:48:00.003-06:00

...CLEANING and ORGANIZING!

Next up on my to do list is organizing all the toys in the game room. I guess I could add a good deep clean to the kitchen, but it gets kept up with very well.

Will start upstairs with general straightening up after the downstairs is done

We will be getting ready to give Tyson his big boy room too!

This is a small picture for some reason, but this is a new storage shelf we bought. It is full of the kids stuff and a little of mine.

Top Shelf: waffle iron and electric skillet (2 of my christmas gifts)

2nd Shelf: left side is a stack of coloring books (can never have too many when you love to color like Taylor) and crayons in the pencil box in front of stack, middle is paint and paint brushes, extra crayons and colored pencils, the right side are 3 storage containers (1 with Taylor's stickers, 1 with her picture creations -- just ask my sister she makes a ton, and the other is construction paper)

3rd Shelf: left side is my stack of scrapbooking stuff that I use more regularly than the rest and the right side are 2 more containers of Taylor's foam shapes and Taylor's foam stickers. Misc coloring and drawing things stacked on those on the right.

Bottom Shelf is just a bigger bin for all Taylor's school stuff for this year so far.

Let's recap in case you didn't notice a trend. The whole shelving system could be renamed "Taylor's Coloring, Artwork, Sticker and School Storage Spot" Not to mention the travel color bag hanging next to it. Even her own little stool to reach all the coloring books.

Happy New Year

2011-01-01T00:13:00.002-06:00

As we welcome 2011 I have 3 goals so far for this year.

1. Keep up with my blog (so far so good-Jan 1 and already 1 post)

2. Get Tyson Potty Trained (soon)

3. Be Healthier and Shed some weight.

I may find that I want to add to this as the year goes on, but for now this is where I will start.

I will keep updated on my progress!

Happy New Year Everyone!

Saying Goodbye to 2010

2010-12-29T13:44:00.010-06:00

2010 was a year of change for us

Taylor turned 5 and started Kindergarten.

Tyson has to spend his days with mommy while sissy is at school.

Matt left a job he had been at for 8 years for a job that would be better for our family in the long run

He had to start over from the beginning, but it has been a great decision and other than having to work all shifts (not just straight days like he was used to) he seems to love the job.

We are looking forward to seeing what 2011 has in store for us.

Here are a few pics from Christmas 2010

Taylor was excited about everything from sitting on Santa's lap to opening presents. She loves Christmas.

Tyson had a Toy Story Christmas complete with movie and lots of toys. He was completely excited. I would call him a Toy Story Nut!

I got a new phone -- the HTC EVO 4G-- I LOVE IT! I also got a Udraw game for the Wii. Thanks Matt I Love You.

Matt got a new cd player for his truck w/ auxiliary jack so that he can listen to his ipod while in his truck. Plus the actual auxiliary cord to plug it in.

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This was the 1st year Tyson would actually sit on Santa's lap without crying. Last year he wouldn't even attempt it. He even managed to smile a few times though this picture was not one of them.

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After Santa visited

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Taylor and her stocking

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Tyson and his stocking

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Kids together with their stockings

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Taylor and her new game (her leapster 2 is on its last leg).

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Tyson got a Toy Story helmet to go along with his Toy Story scooter. He couldn't wait to wear it.

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Taylor and her penguins. Thanks Aunt Brandi. They are a huge hit! (We had Christmas with my sister, Robert and the girls the day after Christmas). We had Yummy food and lots of FUN!

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Tyson and his puppy dog Pillow Pet. Thanks Aunt Brandi.

-----Merry Christmas Everyone-----

Nearly 5 Years Old

2010-07-25T13:17:00.003-05:00

Taylor turning 5 on the 26th marks another milestone in her life. She has waited forever to be 5 and told me the other day that even though she was going to be 5 and is a big girl she would still be my baby. She's growing up way too fast and time really needs to slow down.

Impromptu

2010-07-22T13:53:00.006-05:00

With Taylor gone for the day and it being too hot to be outside Tyson and I have had the day to ourselves. I decided it was time for a haircut (it had grown out quite a bit). After his haircut, he got to take a bath by himself. He had a ball playing in the tub with the duckies without sissy taking them away. Next on the list was an impromptu photo shoot. He likes to have his picture taken and is usually a complete ham, but he didn't last as long as I would have liked. I think it was too close to nap time (which he's doing now). So we have had a good day and Taylor will be back this evening. It's very quiet without my little chatterbox around, but I guess I better get used to it since there is less than a month till school starts for her. Time must slow down. My babies are growing up way too fast.

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This is what 2T shorts look like on a 2 year old with short legs. Still cute though.

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He's so serious. I love his big eyes and long lashes.

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He was posing all on his own. I never told him to do it, only moved him back when he got too close to the edge. (my makeshift studio was a blanket held up by push pins and draped over the toy box)

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Big Smiles.....

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..... and Big Smirks

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Love his chubby little feet

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All Done Pease

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Down Pease

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I'm going to work on getting some of Taylor too, so I may get some more of Tyson then and of course the two of them together.

A Weekend of Firsts

2010-05-31T11:08:00.010-05:00

This weekend was a weekend of Firsts for our little family. We took the kids on their first trip to Chicago (to visit my brother and family), we went to our first Cards/Cubs game at Wrigley, we rode the train to and from Wrigley, we had Gino's deep dish pizza, we went downtown and took a water taxi to Navy Pier, rode the Ferris wheel (a first for me and the kids), went to Portillo's for Hotdogs, went to a really awesome park, ate at Five Guy's and Fries and then came home. It was a fun filled couple days and we are already plotting our next trip. On that agenda is Shedd's Aquarium (we tried to go on Saturday, but there was a 2 hour wait in line just to get in so we opted for the Navy Pier) and the Jelly Belly Factory tour. We took the kids to the pool at my brother's complex before the ride home to wear them out. The kids really had a lot of fun and were very good in the car both ways. Tyson had a great weekend playing with boys his size. He is so used to being outnumbered by all our girls that he was really enjoying himself. We can't wait to do it again.

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On the Water Taxi to Navy Pier

They LOVED the boat

Matt and I with the Chicago skyline in the background

My brother Clint and Me

Left to Right: Kaleb, Taylor, Aiden and Tyson

Cousins: Tyson and Aiden are both 2, Kaleb is 3 and Taylor is almost 5

Clint and the Kids

The Huge Ferris Wheel

Clint, Jasmina, Kaleb and Aiden in their Gondola on the Ferris Wheel

Tyson on the Ferris Wheel

Taylor on the Ferris Wheel

Train Conductors

Self Explanatory...Leaving Navy Pier

Chicago Skyline

Taylor and Tyson watching some bunny rabbits

Sliding at the park like a big boy

Weeeeeeee....Daddy was on the other end making her go up and down.

Cards vs. Cubs

2010-05-30T23:56:00.006-05:00

This weekend we got the chance to visit my brother in Chicago and we were able to get tickets to the Cards vs. Cubs game. It was an amazing experience visiting such a historic stadium and even better when the Cards WON the game. We took the train to the stadium and then enjoyed the day.

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Had to have a pic in front of the stadium

Scoreboard

View from our seats. Even at the top it was a great view.

The Ivy and Rooftops were really neat

The Kids and Daddy in their seats (a cub fan told Taylor she was wearing the wrong sweatshirt-Thankfully she is way to smart for that)

Me and My Babies in our seats

HEY HEY

My Sister In Law is a CUB Fan. See we can get along. She was the outcast of our group!

Take Me Out To The Ballgame

2010-05-20T08:58:00.009-05:00

We took the kids to their first Cardinal game ever yesterday and they had a lot of fun. We got there an hour early and got to get pictures with Fredbird outside the stadium, stayed through the end of the 2nd inning and then opted to leave. It had started to rain and Taylor was feeling pretty sleepy. I think the shots got the best of her and she fell asleep in the car on the way home, so I doubt we would have made it through the whole game. They did excellent and were completely happy the entire time. We took the Metro Link over and back and Taylor loved it. She really liked riding the rain and seeing the big "RIBER" I think next time they will do even better.

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Taylor and Fredbird

Tyson wanted NO part of getting his picture taken alone with him, but was ok with all of us doing it with him.

Happy kids in their seats

We had them between us so they would be protected and unable to run free

Tyson drank A LOT of his gatorade and enjoyed every minute of it...the boy likes to drink!

...and likes to have his picture taken....CHEESE...I WOOK? (He has to see the picture on the camera after you take it)

Taylor was distracted by all the vendors walking around with things she liked....Cotton Candy, Ice Cream, Cracker Jacks etc.

But took a moment to say cheese with Tyson

Cheese

Down by the field

Our Cardinal Family

She was in Awe!

Tyson didn't want me to touch his gatorade...such a hard look!

Checking out the nice people behind us.

Shoving as many sweet tarts into his mouth as he could...Mr. Chipmunk cheeks.

At one point Tyson saw Fredbird on the Jumbo Screen and yelled....."WOOK.....DUCK" and then laughed. It was a good ending to a long day and we hope to do it again!

Almost Ready

2010-05-20T08:55:00.002-05:00

Taylor had her Kindergarten physical yesterday afternoon. She had her eye exam last month. All that remains is a visit to the dentist. She's almost ready for school. I'm not quite sure I am ready though. Registration is at the end of June. My baby is growing up too fast. It will be bittersweet though because she is so excited to get to go to school and has been bugging me for the last 2 years to go. It's finally her turn!

Taylor's Biggest Littlest Fan

2010-05-09T11:42:00.004-05:00

I gotta give Tyson his own post too because Taylor's was so long. He is one of sissy's biggest fans and wishes he could play too.

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Gooooo Tay-Tay!

Sitting in Mommy's chair watching sissy play

Very serious look. Huggly knocked him on his butt. He was NOT happy about it.

He folded in half and pouted for a minute to show is displeasure.

T-ball Days

2010-05-09T11:15:00.008-05:00

Taylor's T-ball season officially started yesterday. It was more like soccer weather than t-ball weather, but it was still a blast. As usual her shirt is too big, but that doesn't stop her from having fun. She picked number 5 to be like Pujols. Smart kid if you ask me. I tried to narrow down the pics, but there are still a bunch on here and will have plenty more throughout the season.

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Taking the field for the first inning.

I call this CHAOS. They all run toward the ball and then back to where they started.

Watching the batter

Ready to field

Waiting her turn to bat

1st At-bat

She got a home run (the kid who bats last runs all the way around the bases)

Playing 1st base to start the next inning

Doing a little dancing while she was at it

She was 1st up the 2nd inning. Standing safe on first base.

2nd At-bat

3rd at-bat she let the coach pitch to her. She was really close to it on this swing.

I Love the follow through

After 3 pitches if they don't hit it they go back to the tee.

It was a great game. Every kid bats and plays the field every inning and they play 3 innings. During the 3 inning span our team made 3 actual outs. The kids were still safe at first, but to complete a play on the first day was great. I look forward to watching the rest of the season.

Before and After

2010-04-11T13:37:00.002-05:00

I recently bought a new set of clippers so that I could cut Tyson's hair. Today was that day. I probably should have waited until after nap but I wanted to get it done. I think it looks super cute. 7/8 inch cut because the 1 inch barely took anything off. Overall it wasn't as drastic as I thought it would be. I might sit him down again after nap and try to get it shaped up if it needs it, but for now i'd rather not make him any more miserable.

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Before

After. He looks like a big boy in this picture with his big brown eyes and long eyelashes! Where oh where did my baby boy go.

Sand Monsters

2010-04-10T18:21:00.004-05:00

This weekend has been a busy one for yard improvements including upgrading the size of the sandbox for the kids. They had a little 4ft by 4 ft and they now have an 8ft by 6ft. They played in it today after daddy added more sand. It ended badly with a sand fight so they were banished to the bathtub for an immediate cleansing. Now Tyson wants Pizza for dinner.

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What do you want Mom? I'm busy.

Taylor packing down the sand for her crab castle.

My third child. The Huggly. He eats all things he shouldn't when outside.

Tyson's chubby little hand. I Love that boy!

He was all smiles and perfectly happy to spend more time outside today.

Zoo Day

2010-04-02T15:58:00.010-05:00

It was a great day to be at the zoo. Not too hot, Not too cold. It was pretty much perfect. We walked for about 5 hours before we headed home. Didn't get very good pics of the monkey's and apes but they were not in picture friendly locations. These are just a sample of some of the pics I got of the animals. Definitely LOVE the 70-300 lens as it lets me get up close and personal with these amazing creatures. We will definitely have to make a return trip.

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Cat Napping

Picture Worthy Pose

The Snow Leopard was a bit tired

Camels are super ugly but still cool to look at

Its easier to photograph a giraffe if you cut off its body, but I did get a few full body shots too.

Just a neat bird of some sort...I forgot to look at the sign

Tyson being a stinker not wanting his picture taken with sissy

Somali Wild Ass (the name on the sign)

He doesn't look very friendly even when he's asleep

Goofy boy again. Wouldn't let me take his picture unless he got to hold his cup. He's usually all about getting in the pictures.

Taylor Loves the Zoo

....and she really loves penguins!

He looks like he wants to fly

Taylor and a snake as we entered the Elephant area...Notice the Pink Penguin she had to have when we left the penguin house.

Not a very hungry Hippo at the moment. It was rather lazy.

Practically Posing

Baby Elephant. There were two!

Overall a great visit, but a bit of a lazy day for A Lot of the animals. We are hoping to catch a sea lion show next time.

T-Ball Basics

2010-03-31T21:06:00.003-05:00

Taylor participated in her first t-ball practice today. They had practice on Saturday, but she was unable to attend because she was still getting over the flu. It was pretty successful, but she had a meltdown at the end of practice. Its still going to be cute and fun to watch.

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This was the first pic I took with my new 70-300 lens

It is amazing and I can't wait to take more with it, but Tyson had other plans for me today

After she rounded 2nd base

Not the greatest, but this is where I had to wrangle Tyson so pictures took a backseat

This was taken before t-ball practice when we took the kids to play at the park. Tyson finally figured out that the playground is fun. He was happy to go up the stairs and down the slide over and over again. LOOK AT THE FACE HE IS MAKING. I think he wanted me to move.

Kickin out the Germs

2010-03-25T00:00:00.005-05:00

This week our house has been inhabited by an unwanted bug. No idea where it came from, but we are all ready for it to leave. Tyson is on the mend and Taylor will hopefully be in the clear soon.

She wanted her picture taken with Marshmallow (the smile on her face is definitely deceiving for how she is feeling)

Tyson is beginning to act like himself again and is so peaceful when he is asleep.

New Pals

2010-02-20T18:04:00.002-06:00

Taylor and Tyson got new pals at the store today.

It's Love

Splish Splash

2010-01-31T16:01:00.004-06:00

Tyson got some new bath toys for his birthday this year and they will stay in the tub until the water is cold if they get to play with them. I usually have to take them away so that I can get them squeaky clean before the shivering sets in. Today's bath was about an hour long.

They are very serious about their bath

----------Taylor would spend eternity in the tub...I really think she's just part fish and loves water!

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Tyson just likes to do whatever sissy is doing. He decided to start saying fishy repeatedly while in the tub today too!

Honor

2010-01-10T17:10:00.003-06:00

"Today a soldier I did not know died, so I could be free"

This was the quote on a truck outside our house yesterday while they lined our street with these flags to honor a fallen solider from our town. I think (never saw anything official) that his funeral was yesterday and they did this to mark the route they were taking.

T * W * O

2010-01-06T09:42:00.004-06:00

Two years ago today my little man was born. It doesn't seem like he should already be two, but he is. He's come a long way since the day he was born. He is one loved little boy.

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Tyson Matthew

6 lbs. 11 oz.

9:30 am

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The next day

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Tyson at 1 year Old

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Birthday Boy about to have a cupcake 1 year old

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Tyson at 2 years old

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He's still a thumbsucking Momma's boy, but I love him to pieces. He's also still the King of making faces. He's not talking completely, but he says a lot of things and definitely knows how to get his point across. Right now I'd say his favorite word other than MAMA is "PIZZA" which also happens to be something he loves to eat.

Christmas Gifts

2010-01-06T08:56:00.006-06:00

I did not take as many pictures as I intended this Christmas. It was partly to do with Tyson being sick Christmas Eve (so i didn't get pics then) and then Christmas morning they were just moving way too fast for me. They had a very good Christmas though and everything seemed to be a hit.

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Taylor and Tyson standing by what was left under their tree. ----------

Miss Mokey Toes ... As you can see in the picture Taylor still holds onto things with her feet.----------

Great Dollar Tree find. Tyson got Donald and Goofy because they didn't have any Mickey left and Taylor got Winnie the Pooh ones. They like to play with them on other toys. ----------

Big Cheese----------

Sitting on his new Mega Blocks----------

He played with his toys for a little bit then climbed up on the couch and fell asleep. I think he was still recovering from his binge drinking efforts on Christmas Eve. I am happy to report Christmas Day was Puke Free!

Santa 2009

2009-12-17T18:44:00.006-06:00

To start off this years visits to Santa we took the kids to a little Christmas party. Santa arrived and each of the kids got a gift and then the chance to sit on his lap. Taylor is right at home on Santa. She has never been scared in the least or cried at all. Tyson on the other hand is the complete opposite. He cried last year and this year was no different. I LOVE the way the picture turned out though and it will be a classic for years to come.

Tonight we took the kids to the park where they have a Santa land. They have blow up decorations, cookies, hot chocolate and little treat bags for when the kids are done sitting with Santa. Most of all they had a couple live reindeer on hand for everyone to see.

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Tyson stood around and watched as sissy rambled on to Santa the things she would like for Christmas this year. We could not coax him up there close enough to sit on his lap so this was the best we got. He looks like he's a little kid who was bad and didn't get to sit on Santa. He did manage to give him a five and knuckles a couple times without too many tears. It was a big improvement over the first picture posted.

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Enjoying some cookies

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He is a Cookie Monster!

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Watching the Reindeer

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Standing by the Reindeer

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Reindeer

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This is a little reminder of how much these two have grown over the last year. This was a picture taken when we went to visit Santa last year.

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This one was taken this year. Its quite a big difference in size. They have grown so much. I think I will continue to take a picture in front of this same thing each year as long as they have it. It makes for a good reference.

Visiting Dad

2009-12-10T09:59:00.003-06:00

While there for my grandma's service we got to see my dads stone. This is the first time we had been back to the cemetary or seen his stone in person since his funeral February 2003. Me, my sister, brother, step brother, stepmom and nieces walked down and took a flower arrangement from grandma's service to place for him. At least we know he's with his mom and dad again and that our group of guardian angels is now greater by 1.

He Only Takes The Best

2009-12-10T09:48:00.003-06:00

He Only Takes The Best

God saw you getting tired

And a cure was not to be.

So He put His arms around you

And whispered, "Come with Me."

With tear-filled eyes we watched

you, suffer and fade away.

Although we loved you deeply

We could not make you stay.

A golden heart stopped beating.

Hard working hands put to rest.

God broke our hearts to prove to us

He Only Takes the Best.

In Loving Memory

June 5, 1927-December 3, 2009

We will miss you Grandma. You will never be forgotten.

I LOVE YOU!

Fun and Leaves

2009-11-07T18:28:00.011-06:00

An AMAZING Day

It didn't feel much like Novemeber at all today. We were out playing for the greater part of the sunshine and then came in for baths because well a day in the leaves makes for dirty kids. Matt used the blower and made Taylor a huge pile of leaves and she was extremely excited to jump in them repeatedly. Tyson liked jumping in the little piles, but the big pile was not his thing. He just couldn't stand up when in the big pile so it made him quite upset. Other than that it was just a good day running around the yard getting pictures of smiling kids. I tried to narrow it down and compared to the number of pics I snapped this is quite narrowed down, but still a very large selection of some of my favorites.

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Mom I'm so happy to play outside

Tyson was happy too
Laying in the Leaves
Watching sissy Lay in the leaves Tyson has mad soccer skills She wanted to pose and who am I to deny her Love those blue eyes and big smiles
Watching the ground
They were fascinated with the tree for a moment
Who would have thought he could run shirtless in November and still be sweating
He doesn't stand still for long
Almost burried
Eye See You Taylor
He couldn't stand up and it was making him MAD
Up to her neck in leaves
A boy and his rocks

Many Fun Times to Come!

Taylor's Bike Trials

2009-11-07T18:16:00.005-06:00

On this fine day we took the opportunity to take Taylor's bike outside and let her practice. She did pretty good considering its been quite awhile since she's rode it. It's definitely a work in progress.

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Before the ride

All aboard

Watching her feet

Push it girlie

Away she goes!

Before long she will have to graduate to a bigger bike, but this one will definitely do for now.

A Boys Work Is Never Done

2009-11-07T18:04:00.003-06:00

Tyson and the Mower

It wasn't running at all during these pics, but he was very interested in it so I got a series of pics that looked like he was really going to get to work.

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The walk thru to make sure it all looks good
Checking for Gas

Start it up right here Momma Push Away

Plus he looks cute walking around in jeans and no shirt!

Puppy Playtime

2009-11-07T17:52:00.003-06:00

HUGGLY

He joined in the outdoor fun today with the kids

Random Stuff Around the Yard

2009-11-07T17:38:00.005-06:00

As we were outside playing today I decided to take pictures of random things around the yard. They may not be very interesting, but they didn't turn out too bad.

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We have these locks on the gates of our fence to prevent child escape. They aren't actually locked and this one isn't even in place, but they do the job.

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Wheelbarrow upside down----------

Mr. Spider right before he became squished Mr. Spider
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This is the handle of the sandbox lid at two different angles

The adventures of Garfield and Odie (Halloween Night)

2009-10-31T22:27:00.008-05:00

This year we opted not to go to the parade that was a complete disaster for the kids last year and hit some new to us trick or treat locations and let me just say THEY WERE AWESOME! The kids had a great time and did excellent both trick or treating and behavior. We will most definitely hit those locations again next year. Thanks to Brandi and Robert for bringing Shelbie, Shianne, Jillian and Abbi along with us. We had so much fun! I'll let the pre trick or treat pics do the rest of the talking.

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Tyson (pre-odie) posing for the camera. I never get tired of his sweet little grin.

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In Costume Taylor as Garfield and Tyson as Odie.

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Odie hanging out in the front yard before time to go. I have to say he didn't mind having the costume on at all and did fantastic both nights going out in it. I had to improvise and use his Cardinals hat so that we could keep odie's head from falling in his face, but it was totally worthwhile.

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Tyson and his sweet little Odie smiles ----------

Garfield takes over. All Taylor had to do was look down just a little and it looked like she was completely inside his head (which was not really possible it was just a hood). I laughed when I saw the results of this pic. ----------

Ta-Da Taylor really is in there! ----------

Again who could resist. Her costume comes full circle for me. I have always LOVED Garfield and when I saw the costumes I knew they would be perfect for us. Taylor loves him too and one day I will pass on my collection to her. ----------

My adorable 8 week old baby niece Abbi----------
All the Kids together. Brandi dressed all the girls up like the wizard of oz characters, but sadly Abbi's witch costume was too big. We had tons of compliments on the grouping of our costumes with Garfield and Odie and the Wizard of Oz.

LEFT TO RIGHT: Jillian (Cowardly Lion), Shianne (Dorothy), Abbi (bear), Shelbie (Scarecrow), Tyson (Odie) and Taylor (Garfield)----------

Could someone call the Fire Department we have a cat stuck in the tree! ----------

Last but not least...THE LOOT!!! This was two days of trick or treating and we have it divided into bowls for the following categories: Fruity Candy, Chocolates and then a bowl with things like pretzels, goldfish, cookies, teddy grahams and popcorn; which you get a lot of when you are pushing a little one around in a stroller. They will share this with many many people I am certain followed by a good teeth cleaning! ----------

2009 was a great halloween and we look forward to what next year will bring!

Trophy Day

2009-10-24T15:51:00.006-05:00

Today was the last day of soccer for this year. They played their game and then headed over to the pavilion for Trophies and food. Taylor was excited that she was getting an award for playing and despite the days playing conditions everyone had fun. It was a chilly morning in the 40's or maybe low 50's, the fields were muddy from all the recent rain, but the kids showed up ready to go and were more than willing to get in the mud. She said she wants to play again next year and her coach will be coaching again so hopefully we can get on his team again.
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Taylor holding her Trophy (backwards)

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Taylor and Coach Chris

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Warm-up (muddy field)

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One of Taylor's Biggest supporters (rain, cold or shine)

I'll be looking forward to seeing the changes she makes next season!

Sending Birthday Wishes to Heaven

2009-10-07T10:52:00.002-05:00

Happy Birthday Mommy!

The Big 50

I Love You Always

and on a blog note I seem to be in a major picture rut that I am hoping to snap out of soon and then I'll have something new to post.

Proud Aunt

2009-09-10T23:57:00.002-05:00

Just over a week ago my big sissy had her 4th baby girl, A 1o lb. 10 oz. 21.5 inch long sweetheart with a head full of dark hair. Her name is Abigail Elizabeth "ABBI" and she is already loved by so many people. Little sis to: Shelbie (7), Shianne (7) and Jillian (2) along with half sister Ashley (13?) I got to hold her 2nd to Mommy because I happened to be in the room while Dad was out with the other kids. She's so cute and snuggly and I can't wait to watch her grow. Love You Baby Abbi.

Huggly Mug

2009-09-10T23:41:00.005-05:00

Introducing "Huggly" the Boston Terrier

Two weeks ago we welcomed a new member to our family. Taylor has been asking for a puppy for a long time now and we figured we may as well get it over with. The puppy has had its name for well over a year without wavering on it at anytime. We got our fence and she was patiently waiting until she could have a puppy of her own. So far she likes having a puppy and Tyson is a fan (unless puppy tackles him while he's on the ground or bites his blanket) and we are working on potty training him. I'm happy to say I am glad we are doing it now instead of having to do it in the cold winter months. This way he will be broke well before the snow arrives. Huggly is learning a lot from the kids and already likes to sleep on your lap or the couch. He's pretty lazy, but is a bit excitable when awake. It's going to be one fun ride!

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Notice the Name Tag ... Taylor said he needed this specific one because he is a Cardinal Fan. Who am I to deny such a smart girl and puppy of such a thing.

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Look at that Pouty Face

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Taylor and Huggly playing ball

1st Game

2009-08-27T22:28:00.007-05:00

Tonight was Taylor's first (practice) soccer game. Her first ever game as part of a team. She was very excited and ready to play. During the 3rd quarter she got drilled in the head from a kid who kicked way too hard to be playing with 4 year old kids (the league is 4-6). She's probably one of the youngest having just turned 4 and along with being the smallest she's at a little disadvantage. That did not stop her from returning to the field and finishing the game (we were very proud she chose to get back out there). She turned into the emotional little girl she is after going back out on the field because she said the other kids wouldn't let her play. Really it was just her not being fast or big enough to get the ball. I asked her if she had fun and she still said yes and that she wanted to keep playing and told her coach she would see him Saturday for the next game. It looks like she will continue to go and play and have a good time, but it may be a long season for Mommy.

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Warm-Up ----------

Waiting her turn to play

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The Chase

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Taylor throwing the ball in

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They won't let me play

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Number 8 like Mommy----------

Part of Taylor's audience...Mr. Tyson (don't you love his bullseye forehead-center bruise from falling or something to the right of that is a bruise from going head first into a wall and to the left of the center bruise is a mosquito bite) ----------

The newest member of our family (little Huggly himself) was also in attendance, but im hoping to get some better pics of him and make a post all about him.

Little but Mighty

2009-08-10T20:02:00.006-05:00

Another first for Taylor.

It was the first day of soccer practice.

Armed with her shin guards, socks to her thighs (peewee size and still big), soccer cleats (fleats) and a water bottle she was ready to go.

Shame on Mommy for not getting a pic of her by herself before practice started, but all the kids were too busy playing on the playground while they waited.

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Team Meeting getting a few instructions

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Again we have the littlest kid out there. She was soaking it all in and they were getting ready to be lined up to kick a ball back and forth with a partner.

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She may be small, but she sure is MIGHTY! Look at that leg kick. If I were to kick my foot that far up I'd end up on my butt. You can see Tyson (in the yellow) watching and wanting to go play too.

The Difference a Year Makes

2009-08-08T15:10:00.003-05:00

I was looking at the pics I took today while the kids were splashing in the pool and one of Taylor reminded me of one I took of her last year around the same time. It's amazing the difference a year makes. Although she's still little she looks so much older.

She will forever be my Baby.

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She's wearing the same swim suit in both pics, but it is noticeably smaller this year.

A daughter is a gift of love.

Unknown, Author

Praying Mantis

2009-08-02T20:03:00.004-05:00

This little guy was hanging out on our new deck rail around our patio while we were sitting outside taking in the completion of the new fence. Taylor said he was waiting to eat some "bad bugs"
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It's a rare thing

2009-07-27T19:44:00.006-05:00

That the 4 of us are ever in any pics together anymore, but we took a few minutes to do it Sunday while we were all here. It's not the greatest, but better than nothing.

Brandi (31) Heather (28) Clint (27) Tyler (24) ----------

All the Cousins. It's more of an outtake pic with the faces we were getting, but it was the best we could do at the time. We tried to arrange them left to right by age and they are in order, but Tyson and Aiden were trying to leave the picture early. They did NOT want to stand still.

LEFT to RIGHT - Shelbie (7) Shianne (7) Taylor (4) Jillian (2) Kaleb (2) Tyson (1) Aiden (1)

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My Little Nephew Kaleb. I hadn't seen him in person since he was a baby because they were in Hawaii so long. Now that they are back in Illinois I hope to see them a lot more often.

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Aiden.

This was the first time I had seen this little dude. I was on a mission to get him to let me hold him by the time they left to go home and I would say I accomplished my goal and even got a couple kisses.

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My Brother Clint and his wife Jasmina. So glad you guys came down to celebrate. He was quite proud that he made it to the top of the play thing at the park and made Jaz join him for a pic.

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Clint at the top of the Infinity Climber at the park.

Taylor's 4th Birthday Festivities

2009-07-27T10:08:00.005-05:00

We had birthday celebrations on Saturday and Sunday. It was a very busy weekend with lots of fun.

You'll always be my baby girl no matter how old you are...I Love You Taylor Michelle

Happy Birthday

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One very dirty birthday girl. I hadn't even had the chance to take a pic of her before she was covered in sidewalk chalk and dirt

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Mommy and Daddy got her a Barbie ATV and it was a huge hit. She was taking all her cousins for rides around the yard. They rode it from the time we brought it out till the time the battery died. I see lots of use in its future. ----------

Her loot. She is so careful opening presents and she was sooooo serious. I couldn't believe it. Thanks Aunt Brandi, Uncle Robert, Shelbie, Shianne, Jillian and Abbi. Thanks, Uncle Tyler. Thanks, Uncle Clint, Aunt Jasmina, Kaleb and Aiden. You all made her birthday super special. We are all glad you came to celebrate with us. ----------

Taylor with Cake number 2 for her actual birthday. Ice Cream Cake from Cold Stone Creamery. It was devil's food cake with a layer of chocolate and a layer of vanilla ice cream with M&M's mixed into the ice cream. It weighed a ton and was soooooooooo yummy! ----------

SATURDAY JULY 25, 2009

Birthday Party number 1

The guest of honor trying to hide behind a chair, but finall gave up and let me snap a quick pic. ----------

Taylor and Tyson together. He's ready to party. ----------

Who can resist this face. I'd say he will be a future heartbreaker, but right now he's a momma's boy. ----------

Saturday's cake featured Marble cake with whipped cream icing and choc/vanilla ice cream on the side decorated with Tinkerbell. It was so moist and yummy! I'm going to have to take a break from birthday's or I may turn into a cake. Thanks to MomMom, PawPaw, Uncle Mike, Katie, Uncle Eddie, Aunt Linda, Jon, Chris, Aunt Lorraine (Honey), Uncle Kerry (Bubba) and Aunt Marilyn for making Taylor's birthday special and celebrating with us. ----------

For the last year or better one of Taylor's favorite things (among many) has been penguins. Her MomMom (grandma) made this for her and it is one of the most adorable things I have ever seen. Thank you for such an awesome gift-Love, Taylor. ----------

I have a hard time leaving Tyson out of picture posts because he loves to cheese. I thought this pic turned out super cute. This boy has got lashes to die for.

Missing You

2009-07-20T10:02:00.003-05:00

It was 7 years ago today when our lives were changed forever. I can't believe its been that long already. So much has happened since you have been gone, but I know that you have been watching from above and I know you will continue to watch over us and keep us safe. I wish you were here. I Love You and I Miss You...FOREVER!

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I've used this pic before but it seems to be the only one I have on my computer. I am going to have to make it a mission to find more.

Session I Progress Report

2009-07-09T20:51:00.002-05:00

Today Taylor got her first ever report card. It was for her first session of swim lessons. She did great the entire 6 or 7 weeks.

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Taylor and her Progress Report

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Pike Level for 3-5 year olds

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Her evaluation. She completed everything on the list and got all smiley faces on the things like confidence, listening to instructor, following directions, accepting constructive suggestions and demonstrating carind, honesty respect and responsibility. Her teacher's personal comment said she is fun and has a lot of confidence in the water and that she is almost ready to move to the next level, but she suggests she remain at the same level to work on swimming farther on her own. Overall I'd say it was a complete success and the new session starts next week. (If I could figure out how to make it so you could click to enlarge it would be readable, but I haven't figured that out yet)

Sprinklers

2009-06-29T08:50:00.006-05:00

After a long weekend I figured taking the kids out to run in the yard would help them recover from being in the car for so long, so I bought a sprinkler and we headed out to set it up. Taylor was a little unsure because she just didn't understand all she had to do was run through the water. I really think Tyson enjoyed himself more than Taylor did. He stood right next to the water batting at it and laughing. Taylor spent a lot of time spraying him. It was a good purchase, but I think they were just tired from the weekend.

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So this is a sprinkler huh? ----------

Taylor trying NOT to get wet by ducking under the water
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Tyson having fun and stopped to say Cheese for the camera
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Tyson completely willing to let sissy spray him
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Trying to spray me while I was taking pictures
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I guess I should point out he was crying and mad because I took something away from him that he wasn't supposed to have
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Taylor on the other hand was pouty because she just didn't understand that all we wanted her to do was run through the water, get wet and have a good time

Indy

2009-06-29T08:29:00.005-05:00

This past weekend we traveled to Indianapolis to see my Grandma. Not long ago she broke her humerus bone in her right arm and had to have surgery. She now has a plate from elbow to shoulder along the bone with about 50 screws in it. She's currently rehabbing and so we decided to drop in for a quick visit. The kids did awesome on the drive over and back. We took advantage of the hotel pool 3 times, but I have no pics since I had to be in the water holding Tyson. We ate dinner with family Saturday (18 people total) at one of the places we went many times when we were younger and lived there, MCL. I will post the group pic when I steal my sister's because the guy taking it cut the whole left side off with my camera.

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The recipient of MANY surprise visitors, Grandma!

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Tyson saying Cheese and smiling real big

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Taylor and Tyson together while visiting their great grandma
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The big girl and her goofy smile

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Me and the kids with Grandma

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*a portion of the great grandkids at dinner saturday night*

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My Uncle Mike (dad's brother) also known as ... Uncle Melon, Uncle Melon Head and The Melon

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We had a great weekend and look forward to seeing everyone again, but this time I hope it doesn't take a year for us to all get together again. We just don't do it often enough.

Princess Taylor

2009-06-23T12:35:00.003-05:00

It's a new "do" to keep her hair from getting stuck under her arms when it is wet and she just wants to play. It has also got to be much cooler in this heat. Daddy said she looked like Princess Leia but she said "NO I'm Princess TAYLOR"

Mostly Stolen

2009-06-18T15:11:00.005-05:00

Wednesday was the first day in awhile that we were able to get out of the house without rain or storms. My sister came over and we took the kids to the park after lunch. I didn't get as many pics as her so I stole most of these from her since she got some really cute ones. Hey, I'm allowed to use pics of my own kids-right?

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Taylor doesn't like to stop doing what she's doing for pictures and you can tell by the look on her face.

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Tyson being serious. He was the KING of the playground surrounded by a bunch of little princesses.

(Uncle Clint please bring me some boys to get dirty with)

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Tyson running with Jillian (almost exactly 1 year apart in age)

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He LOVES to have his picture taken most days and I LOVE his smiles----------

Stopping for a quick snap

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The Crew from Bottom to Top - My Picture

(Tyson, Ashley, Shianne, Taylor, Shelbie, Jillian and Samantha-brandi's babysitting kid) ----------

I couldn't resist posting this one because I LOVE the look on his face. He's out of focus but that's what happens when he's coming straight at me for the camera. (also my picture)

Swim Lessons

2009-06-04T21:03:00.004-05:00

Today marked a new milestone for us. Taylor had her first ever swimming lesson. She has never been afraid of the water and today was no different. She was acting shy at first, but that isn't uncommon when she is around someone new for the first time, and by the end she was back to having no fear. She was in a group of 5 and she was the only girl. She was also the smallest of the group. It was so cute to watch and she cannot wait to go back again. At home showing off her swimsuit and all ready to go

At the pool waiting for her class to start

Matt took this one on his camera and I stole it because it is cute and shows she wasn't scared to jump in

The instructor talking to the kids

Taylor's turn ( I think this is where she was dunked under water unsuspectingly)

Taking her turn on the noodle

I Love Baseball

2009-05-19T13:56:00.004-05:00

These were from the make-up game I attended with my MIL. I had a great time and even found out they saw us on tv.

Mighty Pujols at Bat

Zoo Pics

2009-05-19T13:04:00.008-05:00

Finally some zoo pics. Had to be uploaded one at a time which is a pain so here are a select few.

St. Louis Zoo

2009-04-08T22:43:00.002-05:00

We took the kids to the zoo today. It was a breezy, but very nice day. We were there at 9am when they opened and left around 2pm. We are going to go back again sometime this summer when its a little warmer. Lots of walking exercise but totally worth it. Taylor wasn't ready to leave. Here's a little insight to our day!

I'll have to come back and add pics. It's not uploading my pics right now.

Little Buddies

2009-04-08T22:31:00.003-05:00

Yesterday we were lucky enough to have dinner with a friend who lives in Tennessee (much too far away) and Taylor got to see a good buddy. They talked, laughed and acted like the silly almost 4 year olds they are, but then it was time for them to go. Next time we will have to try to fit in a longer visit. They are so cute!

Are YOU ready ...

2009-04-03T16:01:00.003-05:00

... for some BASEBALL

Tyson Is and he is one of the cutest little Cardinal Fans Ever!

St. Patrick's Day at the Park

2009-03-18T10:11:00.005-05:00

The weather was gorgeous so after errands we ventured to the park. I decided to try a different park and it was excellent. The playground area was all new and the ground was flat (a plus for a certain little boy who doesn't like walking on uneven ground). There is a little lake and a garden area. Very Nice we will be going back for sure. I couldn't keep up with Taylor she was running with all the other kids that were there. Tyson on the other hand just wandered around watching all the kids. He hasn't quite figured out what he's supposed to do there. These are some of my favorites from the day!

Look at those Tears
Trying to figure out exactly what is going on around him
Ready for a Nap

Looking for the ducks on the lake
Climbing
Peeking through the rails of the bridge

She's Been Practicing...

2009-03-06T21:30:00.003-06:00

Taylor absolutely cannot wait till she gets to go to school. She's a smart cookie and has been practicing her name on her doodle. The one I am about to post is one that she did all by herself. Other times I write it first and she follows and does a pretty good job I might add. We have her pre-k screening Thursday, March 12 and should get a pretty good idea weather or not she will be able to go or if she will have to wait until Kindergarten next year. My fear is that they will say she is too smart and doesn't need it and I guess that is a good thing, but her want to go and my desire for her to learn the school setting has us hopeful.

Baby No More

2009-03-04T13:13:00.003-06:00

Hitting the one year mark for Tyson means not only is he no longer a baby, but he is also doing without something he has had since birth. No more FORMULA for this TODDLER. I just can't believe they have to grow up so fast. Now Phase 2 will be to rid him from the bottle, but that doesn't look like its going to happen anytime soon. The kid absolutely will not drink from a sippy cup. He turns it upside down, chews on the bottom, chews on the handles, chews on the spout (sensing a pattern here) and then throws it down and waves his hands in front of his face telling me he does NOT want it.

Formula No More

The Big Boy

The Big Sissy That Makes Him Laugh

222

2009-02-22T12:39:00.003-06:00

Whenever 222 pops up in any form it makes me smile and think of my mom. She had a thing for this combination and since today is 2-22 I will post a few pics of me when I was little that I just scanned with my new printer.

Me (6 months old) My sister 2.5 years old and our Mom

Me as a Baby (anyone that doesn't think my kids look like me need to see these pics)

Me and My Mom (No idea how old I was here though. I'll say 4 or 5)

Just a random pic of me to show softball has always been a part of my life (even with a broken arm) too bad I couldn't actually play, but got pics taken anyway. I was base coach for the season!

One more random pic of me and my sister

Little Boys and Yellow Ducks

2009-02-17T11:26:00.002-06:00

Taylor likes to play with this duck (actually a water thermometer) when she is in the bath, but she let Tyson have it last night and he was having a lot of fun squealing at and biting it.

Through the Years...Favorites

2009-02-16T11:07:00.004-06:00

Some of my favorite pics from the past and present. It's a small sampling because some of my other favorites are on disk and not on the computer anymore. These show some of my most favorite people and the little things I love about them.

My Mommy & Guardian Angel

It's Taylor ... I love the baby wrinkles

New Daddy holding Taylor (she looks like a little baby doll)

Taylor's 3rd Birthday (gotta love those big blue eyes)

Taylor and Brady (they were being soo cute together)

My Baby boy has arrived...Tyson's big day!

Taylor holding her baby brother for the first time at home

Tyson's Cheeks ... Need I say more!

The many faces of Tyson

The attitude of Taylor

Quick

2009-02-13T20:55:00.004-06:00

I just wanted to post real quick. Here's a couple snapshots with the new camera. I'll have more later. Ignore all the toys and stuff in the background they have been very busy playing (aka scattering toys through the living room).

Feeling Better?

2009-02-03T10:45:00.003-06:00

The last couple days Tyson has been more like himself. He has been a gigglebox since last night and just his overall smiley self. I LOVE it when he's like this. Here's just a quick sample of someone who seems to be feeling better. Taylor of course is included because she wants in the pics any time I get the camera out, even if she's not going to cooperate.

Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital

2009-01-27T11:05:00.005-06:00

While I am very happy that Tyson was able to get such good care I am very happy to be home. Here are a few of the pics I snapped of my sick little man during his hospital stay. He isn't 100% yet but he's doing a lot better. He slept in his own bed last night and slept from about 10:30pm last night to 9:00am this morning. He was awake a couple times throughout the night but I only had to get him out of bed once. He probably would have slept longer this morning but I got him up at 9 to give him his medicine.

Day 1-puny and miserable

Day 2-starting to feel better

Free From Oxygen...giving me a hard look for taking his picture

Look at those eyes...so sweet even when sick

Happy to have his toy from home

The Kid Copter-it has hand and footprints on it in case you can't tell-This was our view of the helipad from our room...I saw about 4 or 5 choppers

HOME AT LAST

A Face of Sickness

2009-01-24T14:20:00.003-06:00

Tyson is fighting something or many things that have caused him to have a terrible week. He's an absolutely miserable little boy. I think he's now fighting the cough that Taylor is finally starting to get over and he is cutting molars. He doesn't want to drink his bottles or eat much at all. Yesterday he slept 99% of the day without moving. I felt so bad for him. Today has been better. He drank about 5 of 6 oz of a bottle and a few oz of pedialyte and has eaten one jar of bananas. The thing I like most about today is he has actually had his eyes open several times and has been looking around checking things out. He still doesn't want to play or sit for long and is just taking it easy. If he could just get past the cough I think he would be doing loads better. Here's just a few shots of the misery.

Just a Few Small Steps

2009-01-17T21:06:00.003-06:00

Here's just a quick look at what has been learned in the last few days. He doesn't get too many in a row before he falls but he is definitely growing up on me way too fast.

***Tyson slow down a little bit so Mommy can enjoy you as a little dude for awhile longer***

Birthday Cupcakes

2009-01-06T17:19:00.005-06:00

Chocolate cupcakes with green icing, ground cookie for dirt and a football on top.

He didn't want anything to do with picking it up but liked eating it.

Singing Happy Birthday

Daddy stuck his fingers in it and he wasn't a fan

Just wanted mommy to feed him little pieces

short video of him munching

Happy 1st Birthday Tyson

2009-01-06T08:42:00.002-06:00

1 Year ago today I was waiting for Tyson to be born. He decided he wanted out sooner than he was supposed to be, January 21 was the date I was scheduled to have him and he wasn't technically due until January 29.

Finally at 9:30 am I got to hear that little guy cry. I only got to see him for a minute before they took him to the nursery to get checked out because he was pretty pale. He had us all worried when he had to be under the Oxygen hood and on IV fluid and antibiotics, but he's a trooper and stuck it out.

He was 6.11 lbs and 18.5 inches long. I barely remember him being so little because well he's been big for so long. At 9 months he was 21 lbs and 28.5 inches but I don't know what he is today because his Dr. Appointment for his 1 year isn't until January 14.

I LOVE YOU LITTLE BUDDY

HAPPY 1st BIRTHDAY TYSON MATTHEW!

Tyson's 3D face shot

January 6, 2008 - Eyes and Mouth Open

January 6, 2008 - Takin it Easy

January 5, 2009 - Look How Big I am Now

Big Boy Kicked Back

Christmas Morning

2008-12-29T10:54:00.005-06:00

Christmas morning was so fun. We had such a great holiday season and the kids made out like bandits in the toy department. Taylor was so excited about everything. Tyson didn't really know what to think, but it was fun watching him just take it all in. I would have to call his 1st Christmas a complete success. He didn't really understand the whole open presents thing so sissy opened his too. Matt surprised me with 2 really awesome picture frame collages that hold a ton of pics. I'll have to get busy printing so I can fill them up and hang them on the wall. This year has gone so fast and I can't believe that my baby boy will be turning one a week from tomorrow. We hope everyone had a Merry Christmas and that your New Year is great too!

She dug right into that stockng...filled with fruit rollups, gummi bears and worms, a new bottle of vitamins, crayons, a petshop activity book, gummi savers and a couple stuffed toys

She was so excited there was something big but it was stuck (gummi bears)

He's always got his tongue hanging outModeling Tyson's Fridge Magnets

Just taking it all in

Christmas filled with games ... She also got candy land, chutes and ladders and hungry hungry hipposGiving Me the Look

Such a Little Ham
Watching Sissy play with her Handy Manny Tools that she totally loves
But I want the Loot now that its all open

After we got everything out of their boxes and the kids played with everything for awhile we headed back to Matt's parents for dinner. Yummy Ham, potato casserole, broccoli pasta casserole and salad. Not to mention cookies, candy and fudge!

Christmas with my sister

2008-12-29T10:40:00.002-06:00

Just a few from Tuesday the 23 when we had Christmas with my sister, her husband, my brother and my sister's girls. We had a great time and everyone loved their gifts!

Santa Claus comes to Troy

2008-12-14T10:18:00.011-06:00

Matt and I were wide awake within seconds of hearing the firetruck sirens blaring as it came down the street. We both stood straight up out of bed and looked out the window only to see that it was Santa Claus. We got Taylor out of bed so she could see and that is when the excitement started. She has been so excited to see him for awhile now but when she waved and saw him waving she said he was waving at her. He rode around town till noon and then took his place at Santa's house in the park. We decided to take the kids and go see him. They had lots of those blow up decorations, hot chocolate, cookies and of course Santa. Next week the reindeer will be joining him so we will probably make another trip to see them too. Taylor still loves Santa. She did awesome for the 3rd year in a row. She talked his ear off, question after question, and then told him she like his christmas tree. Tyson was not as amused with the stranger holding him. He gave Santa the pouty lip and cried a few tears for only a couple seconds. He was just mostly not thrilled with sitting on someone he didn't know. Here's some pics from our adventure.

Taylor, Tyson and FrostyTaylor, Tyson and the Reindeer Taylor, Tyson and Mickey Mouse

Taylor, Tyson and Charlie Brown
Talking Santa's ear off

She Absolutely Loves Santa Claus
Tyson sits on Santa while Taylor tells him it will be ok...He was very unsure of him!

Tyson's 5 seconds of crying then he was over it, but still didn't want to sit on him.

I had to torture Tyson for a few more seconds so that I could get a pic of him by himself with Santa!

Tyson is always so content and laid back that I was surprised he cried at all, but then he's a lot older than Taylor was her first Christmas, so he is aware of a lot more than she was her first time seeing Santa. She will probably teach him the ropes in no time and next year he may be a completely different kid.

On another note....Saturday was also my Mother -in- Law's birthday, so I just wanted to add a Happy Birthday to her on here. We Love you and hope you had a great birthday!

Christmas Pictures...

2008-12-04T14:18:00.006-06:00

...Take 2

This was our 2nd attempt at getting a couple pics to send out with Christmas cards. The first attempt failed miserably by way of bad lighting making blurry pics, flash creating massive red eye, a toddler with an attitude and a baby that doesn't sit still long enough.

I managed to get a few I liked this time.

This is an example of the tude Taylor was giving me when I told her to smile normal instead of goofy faced. Her reply along with a pouting face was that she didn't know how.

Then I told her if she cooperated she could have this sucker and I managed a cute shot

Next was my favorite of the Two of them Together

Last but not least a few of my favorites of Tyson. Still not sure which I like best.

And all worn out.

Just Hanging Out

2008-11-03T16:27:00.005-06:00

...At Home!

My Tubby Tyson 21 lbs at 9 months old.

And the fuzz he's got growing on

Big Boy

ASF Pumpkin Picking Party at Eckerts

2008-10-23T11:07:00.005-05:00

Another work function that was a lot of fun. We went pumpkin picking at Eckerts. Along with pumpkin picking we watched pig races, played on the playground, fed some animals and went on a hayride around the farm.

Heading out into the field

In the Field

Looking for the perfect pumpkin

Finally...just what she wanted!

Sitting with our 2 Pumpkins while waiting for the Tractor to come pick us up

Little Man in A Big Pumpkin Field

Driving a Tractor

Tyson just hanging out being good, Like Always!

Taylor feeding the goats

On the way home in the car Taylor says to me, "Mommy I'm REALLY Tired" so I asked why she was so tired and she replied without hesitation "Because I had a REALLY Long day Picking Pumpkins"

Trick or Treating 2008 Part 1

2008-10-18T21:55:00.003-05:00

We had a fun day trick or treating at the campground. This is the first of several Halloween events we will attend. This coming Wednesday we will be pumpkin picking and then Halloween night will be attending a big parade.

Taylor and Daddy Fishing across the water

My Little Thumb Sucker

Tyson just hanging out be the good little dude he is

The Reveal of My Little Stinker

Trying to be like a real skunk

Waiting Patiently

Checking out the other kids all dressed up

Ready to GO

Finally on the Move

Tyson the Bat Sitting on Daddy's Lap

2008 ASF Employee Appreciation Day at Six Flags

2008-10-14T11:55:00.008-05:00

Saturday Oct. 11 we went to the Employee Appreciation day for Matt's work at Six Flags. This was the 3rd time we have went for one of these days. The first time we went Taylor was only 3 months old, the second time she was just over a year, so this time was tons of fun. She rode almost every little kid ride they had without a problem even after hating any and all rides at the little town carnivals around here. We got there at 11am and left at about 7pm so we had a good 8 hours of walking. Taylor walked 99% of the day and Tyson was just kicked back in the stroller being his usual content self. They did awesome all day. Here's some of the pics I took from the day.

Nope didn't go on that either. I share my mom's major dislike of huge Ferris Wheels.

Evel Knievel Coaster "No I did NOT go on it and had no plans to do so"

Tyson was so busy watching everything going on

Taylor and Mommy riding the horses

Playing in the fountain inside the entrance

The Batman...your feet dangle. Yes, I do like this one, but didn't get the chance to ride it.

This was almost a major wipeout. She was coming down a hill by the pavillions we were eating at and was going too fast. Luckily caught herself and was able to stop but it scared the daylights out of her

Flying the Purple Plane

It really looks like she's peeing, but that's just not the case. They had these things in the kiddie land and it was such a nice days tons of kids were playing in them.

Soaked, but having a blast. She was letting the water spray up her shorts leg.

Fountain inside the Entrance to the park

Me and Matt by the Fountain

Taylor and her 6.5 year old twin cousins Shelbie and Shianne (yeah they are little) anxiously waiting in line for a ride.

Tyson totally unamused but ...

... He really was happy and good all day long!

Last pic of the day. Two very exhausted kids!

TFL!

To a Very Special Person

2008-10-07T10:03:00.003-05:00

Happy Birthday Mom!

Would have been 49 years young today!

I Love You

9 Months Already

2008-10-06T14:10:00.004-05:00

Time is just flying by and my little man is 9 months old today. He's doing so good and still such a happy dude. Here's a look back from birth to now.

Birth

1 Month

2 Months

3 Months

4 Months

5 Months

6 Months

7 Months

8 Months

9 Months

I Love You Tyson!

Just a quick Note

2008-10-05T10:40:00.002-05:00

For all my Cubbie friends...

CONGRATULATIONS DODGERS ON A JOB WELL DONE!!!

That is all Thanks.

Fresh Air

2008-09-26T22:14:00.006-05:00

It's been so nice here all week, so I told Taylor we would go to the park today. As always, she was super excited. She loves the park and running free. Today she even gave me an extra treat, she was a total ham for the camera all on her own. I got some good pics and found a couple spots that would be good for future photo ops. I'll share just a few of Taylor and a few of Tyson but again if you would like to see more visit http://www.dropshots.com/tay4 and leave a comment so I know you visited.

Lounging in the Tunnel

Holding on for dear life.

Showing me she CAN pose for pictures without me asking

So happy to be at the park

Mr. Eyelashes

Smiley Little Man

Photo Op Spot

Pouty Face...He was done with the grass and the sun!

A Vintage action on a pic of Taylor by the same wall

Showing her displeasure with pictures by the wall...(see that 3 year old attitude)...ready to go play again

That's A Winner!!!

2008-09-24T10:22:00.004-05:00

Matt and I got free tickets from his dad to go to last nights Cardinals/Diamondbacks game. They were GREAT seats (3rd baseline just past the dugout 6 rows from the field) and a lot of fun. We got to see Randy Johnson, future Hall of Famer up close but were glad when the Cardinals hit him for some runs. We had yummy Nachos and just took in the game. We left after there was 1 out in the bottom of the 8th to beat the crowd to the metro link. We got out of there pretty quickly and didn't have to wait long at all. Just what we needed, a night out without kids doing something we love. I took tons of pics and was probably annoying with the camera but I wanted to get lots of shots. Batteries died before we had anyone take one of me and matt together so you won't see that but I'll try to remember next time to do that first. These are in no paticular order just some shots I liked. To see all 104 I snapped check them out here http://www.dropshots.com/tay4 and feel free to leave comments there as well. St. Louis Skyline From our Seats!

Future Hall of Famer "Randy Johnson" He Looks even Taller in Person!

Glaus at 3rd waiting on the inning to start

Pujols at Bat

Barton in Left Field

Skip in Center after he came in as part of a double switch

Pujols going back to first after a foul ball and Adam Dunn kicking dirt at first

Bullpen

Pujols applauding Glaus's Hit

First Pitching Change

Pujols waiting on the new pitcher to warm up

Intentional Walk

Another Pitching Change

Limber Ex-Cardinal Eckstein Stretching...this little dude is ALWAYS stretching!

Fredbird Boogie

New Milestone

2008-09-11T09:57:00.002-05:00

Tyson is a very laid back baby as I have said many times before so he is completely content to be lazy. Lately I have been practicing with him daily to teach him how fun sitting up can be. He's doing great at it now and can sit up for long amounts of time. He does eventually fall over and can't sit himself back up without my help but I don't think it will be long. He also lays on his belly and pushes up with his hands and moves his legs like a frog like he wants to move, but just hasn't grasped the concept of getting his knees under him quite yet so for right now he makes his way around the living room by rolling and scooting on his back to where he wants to go. I think once he does start moving he is going to take off and not look back, but getting to that point may be a little bit yet.

Chompers

2008-08-22T22:41:00.002-05:00

Not the best pic in the world but finally one where you can see Tyson's 2 bottom teeth! They are sharp little suckers but so cute!

Just a Trim

2008-08-22T22:27:00.007-05:00

Taylor just had her 2nd ever haircut in 3 years. The first was just a little bang trim at just over a year old. It was time, she was in desperate need of a cut to clean up the ends and make it completely healthy again. She's so short and her hair is so long that she had to sit on 2 boosters for the lady to be able to cut it. She did awesome and sat still the whole time.

BEFORE

DURING...Reflection from the mirror

AFTER...all nice and cleaned up!

We Love the Bath

2008-08-21T15:59:00.006-05:00

Taylor was dirty from playing and Tyson had a little diaper mishap so they both needed a bath. I decided to try out the bath seat for Tyson instead of laying him down on his back to clean him. He did pretty good. He is still pretty wobbly so he was content to slide forward and lean back the whole time. This was the first time they have had a bath together. It should save me some time in the future. They are both water lovers and get it honestly. Tyson also discovered he's a boy to say it nicely, but I will spare you all any pictures of that and that save him the embarassment.

Helloooo Ladies !!!

Does she have to sit so close mom?

I think she's part fish!

I know I'm Irrestible!

Jumperoo Peace

2008-08-20T17:37:00.002-05:00

Tyson absolutely must have worn himself out. He was jumping and babbling and next thing I know he's sound asleep. I had to grab the camera before I moved him to a more comfortable location. I Love Sleeping Babies!

Beautiful Eyes

2008-08-06T17:16:00.002-05:00

I still don't know where these two got their eyes, but I wouldn't change them for the world. Tyson's are getting a bit darker but I still love them. Taylor's are still as blue as ever!

Voice of a Mommy's Boy!

2008-08-02T10:53:00.003-05:00

Tyson Recently found his voice and while the most of it is very shrill sounding noise he does say "MAMA" which is also his first real word. I always knew he loved me. Taylor has been trying to teach him to say "Tay-Tay" for her so when he does that I'm sure she will be super happy.

SELF INSPIRED

Santa 2011

Halloween 2011

Wedding Festivities

First Grade

*S.I.X*

Play Ball

Happy Easter

Frame By Frame

Taylor and Brady Meet Again

Happy Valentine's Day

Winter Wonderland

So it begins...

Snow Day Take Two

Happy 3rd Birthday Tyson

Celebrating Early

Starting off the New Year by...

Happy New Year

Saying Goodbye to 2010

Nearly 5 Years Old

Impromptu

A Weekend of Firsts

Cards vs. Cubs

Take Me Out To The Ballgame

Almost Ready

Taylor's Biggest Littlest Fan

T-ball Days

Before and After

Sand Monsters

Zoo Day

T-Ball Basics

Kickin out the Germs

New Pals

Splish Splash

Honor

T * W * O

Christmas Gifts

Santa 2009

Visiting Dad

He Only Takes The Best

Fun and Leaves

Taylor's Bike Trials

A Boys Work Is Never Done

Puppy Playtime

Random Stuff Around the Yard

The adventures of Garfield and Odie (Halloween Night)

Trophy Day

Sending Birthday Wishes to Heaven

Proud Aunt

Huggly Mug

1st Game

Little but Mighty

The Difference a Year Makes

Praying Mantis

It's a rare thing

Taylor's 4th Birthday Festivities

Missing You

Session I Progress Report

Sprinklers

Indy

Princess Taylor

Mostly Stolen

Swim Lessons

I Love Baseball

Zoo Pics

St. Louis Zoo

Little Buddies

Are YOU ready ...

St. Patrick's Day at the Park

She's Been Practicing...

Baby No More

222

Little Boys and Yellow Ducks

Through the Years...Favorites

Quick

Feeling Better?

Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital

A Face of Sickness

Just a Few Small Steps

Birthday Cupcakes

S.I.X