THE MORRIS FAMILY

Christmas Cheer and a great start to a Happy New Year!

2012-01-22T09:07:00.000-08:00

I realize that we are 22 days into 2012, but it's never too late to do a post about Christmas and all the memories we've made between then and now:) It doesn't really bother me that I'm not a consistent blogger. I've come to accept that I'm just not that "daily/weekly posting type of girl", and I'm perfectly happy with all of my monster posts! If you make it through this post...Congratulations and bless your sweet heart (as my NaNa would say)!:)

My mom and I started Christmas day at 7:00 in the FREEZING morning! We went out to the cemetery to put down flowers for Erika, MiMi & PaPa. Of course with our luck, the gates were still closed, but we were all for walking down to their markers in the 30 degree wind and cold. You just can't put a temperature on love:)

Then we came home and opened Santa gifts with Madden, Mike, and MiMi. Madden got a lot of stuff that he doesn't even need, but he loves it all. He's at that age where spoiling him won't do any harm:) Plus, this will be his last Christmas as an only child. He was so cute, he had to read every book he opened before moving onto the next gift.

He's going to be an avid reader like his daddy and MiMi.

Mike and I hosted our big family Christmas that afternoon and well into the evening. I think I got just about everyone's picture, but MiMi, Clyde, Antonio, and Bryan. We love our family and friends and are already looking forward to next Christmas!

Especially since we'll have a sweet new addition....Mason Reid!

Enjoy all the pictures!

Madden and Landry on their Charlie Horses

Madden opening his Calliou DVD from Aunt Jayme

Did I mention that this little gift won the best gift award? Madden LOVES it and can't get enough of it. Thanks, Aunt J!

My all-time GREATEST friend, Pam! We have been friends since Kindergarten:)

Jayme & Daniel

Amy & Kaitlyn

Mom & Charlie- I heart this picture!So happy for her, too!

Emmy & John

Aaron, Mom, Me

Laura & Fred...soon to be Mr. and Mrs.

My sweet friend Kelli and I...We've adopted her into our family....LOVE her!

Aunt Judy & Pam

Jude & Judy

Cousins

Mike loving on my Mason Belly

Party in the tub! I think this was one of my favorite parts of the night.

Madden and Landry had a ball in the bath!

Two Silly Monkeys

Splish! Splash! All the water was flying out of the bath!

The three Christmas Cousins in their matching Jammies

Madden thinks this Christmas was a perfect 10!

This might be one of the sweetest pictures of Camden and Landry EVER!

Madden was all smiles the next morning at breakfast...

of course he was eating a very popular powdered donut:)

Ready to play with all his new goodies

Being a dare-devil on his new tricycle

Look how happy I am? Madden loves his zoo. Thanks, Grammy!

Calliou is a must have in Madden's life right now. There's just something about this ball-headed baby that he absolutely adores!

He's also a huge fan of Super Why!

Mommy and Daddy can't even get sweet kisses like that anymore:(

Mike being a good sport:)

All in all, Christmas 2011 was a success!

Thanks to all of our family and friends for making it a special day!

So, we were hoping that Madden would be ready to start potty training after the holidays were over....we thought WRONG! It started out great!

We put him in his big boy undies and set the timer to go off every 20 minutes.

Every time he heard that ding-ding, he would take off running full-force to the potty.

He knew his potty treats were waiting for him. It was so cute! We made a really big deal about it, because we wanted him to be excited... and he was....for the first 3 days!

Running to the potty like such a big boy!

Happy that he got more potty treats!

Feeling very comfortable in his big boy undies:)

Then there was day 4...Whomp, whomp:( The excitement wore off and turned into tears. We realized our timing was off. We wanted this more than Madden, and that was NOT good. Our little sweet-pea just wasn't ready. So, for now....we are no longer potty training. We might try again over Spring Break. Ideally, it would be nice to have him out of diapers before Mason arrives, but it's totally ok if he's not.

For this to be right, it's going to have to be accomplished on Madden time:)

I took Madden to his FIRST movie, Chipwrecked! I wasn't sure how he would do, but he did so much better than I could have ever imagined. In my mind, I pictured him running up and down the isle and getting in and out of his seat, but it was the total opposite. We got there after they had already turned down the lights. I think Madden was a little overwhelmed when we first walked in. He was clinging onto me for dear life! Eventually, he stopped burying his head and turned around and enjoyed the movie. He was sitting like a sweet boy in my lap the whole rest of the movie. I was so happy that we ended up having a good experience.

We met Katy, Whitney, Jamie, and Sophie for the movie! Madden was on a little double-date. His real girlfriend is definitely Whitney, though:)

Aren't they so cute together?

I love how Whitney looks all bashful in this picture:)

Of course Madden had to take Blue and Brown!

We can't leave home without these two monkeys!

The Sweeties

Checking to see which movie they are going to go see next

Notice Madden's famous lip...he thought that was his popcorn:(

Mr. Handsome

Three Cuties!

I like how Madden is trying to look around Sophie to get a peek at Whitney and she's trying to act like she doesn't want to look at him:)

I really think that this is young love at it's finest!

This picture will have to go in their wedding album one day:)

Moving onto some boy time...

This is Becky's little guy, Logan. He was so nice to invite Madden over for a play date.

These two couldn't be more different from one another, but it was still a hoot watching them play. Logan and Madden better get used to sharing soon...

they are both going to be big brothers in April!

Becky and Logan- Great pic!

I love that her and I are pregnant again together....so neat!

I think Logan liked Madden's hair:)

Too bad Madden doesn't like anyone touching his precious locks!

There's blue and brown again:) I was not kidding!

Madden and Parker had a little play date a few weeks ago. We are sad, because Parker and his family are moving at the end of this month. Not like around the corner, but like several hours away. We will still keep in touch and see each other when we can, though:)

I'm happy for their sweet family and all the new things 2012 is going to bring them!

Aunt Amy and Uncle Aaron gave Madden his first T-Ball set for Christmas! We are hoping he will be a fan of baseball. Considering, Mike DID just create him an awesome baseball themed Big Boy room! I can't wait to take him to his first Ranger game this year. I think he will love it!

Keeping his eye on the ball!

Totally a homerun!

He was having a blast!

Getting a little coaching from Daddy!

Daddy's # 1 Slugger!

This little guy makes us SO happy!

He's at that age where he really is pretty easy! More importantly, we just love hanging out and playing with him. His personality is shining more and more each day. He's so much fun to watch. We love to laugh at all the funny things he does. Oh, we love our sweet little Madden!

Only in Texas...It's Winter and 75 degrees!

We were able to enjoy a nice night of playing in the backyard.

Just a swing'n with Daddy

He loves his playground that Mike and Grand-Bob built!

Enjoying a ride through the house on a not so warm day:)

Madden is a picky eater...so whatever he's willing to eat, we're happy with!

I had one of those pregnancy moments where I just had to have ice cream, so off to Brusters Mike took us:) It was SO good!

Mike thought it would be a great idea to take Madden to see the neighborhood ducks, since they drive by them everyday. As soon as Madden threw the bread out there, the duckies swam away:( We learned that these aren't the kind of ducks that welcome company.

Calling the duckies, but no luck:(

Mike and I celebrated our 9 year anniversary on January 4. Of course we had to work that day, but we planned little things throughout the day. I love that Mike sent me these pretty roses up to school...he's sweet like that:) We were able to sneak away for a lunch date, too. Madden spent the night with Grammy that evening, so that we could go to a movie and enjoy a night to ourselves. Of course we had to stop by and tell Madden good night after the movie and bring dinner over:) We know that he's the absolute BEST thing that has happened to us in these 9 years! Thanks, Grammy for helping us out:)

I love Mike Morris! These were waiting for me one night when I got home from school. I heart these thin mint cookies with my whole belly! They are sinfully delicious!

I think this is a sweet note to end on:) Wow, you made it!

A Joyful Month

2011-12-23T21:00:00.000-08:00

I always find myself getting SO behind on this blog. I'm just not good at keeping it up-to-date. I figured I better recap the last month, before Christmas, because I know I will have a monster post to do on that day alone. No matter how lazy I get with the blog, I don't want to give up on doing it, because it's a great way to record all of our family memories.

Oh, and I'm not a quitter!

Thanksgiving was very low-key this year, but still very nice.

Usually, the whole family gets together.

This Turkey Day it was just Mike, Madden, Mom, Charlie, Vicki, Kelli, and I.

My brother and his family were celebrating with his wife's side of the family and my aunts/cousins were rooting on the Dallas Cowboys at the Big Game!

Here are a few pictures that I attempted to take to remember this day:)

My Mom & Charlie

(Who just happened to make the BEST chicken and Turkey...even Madden loved it!)

I tried to catch this little turkey, but he's just too quick:)

My sweet friend, Kelli and I

Mike took me out to the cemetery to see Erika, MiMi, and PaPa and drop off flowers. I miss the three of them so much! I love that Mike is always willing to go out there with me.

Mike Morris, You are the best! I am thankful for you EVERYday!

He knew that my heart needed to go out there on that night.

I am so thankful for the sweet memories I have of my sister!

I'm also forever thankful for my precious Madden, my little Mason that is growing in my belly, my loving family, great friends, a job that I love, and a place to call home where there is more than I truly need. I know how fortunate I am. I try not take anything for granted, because I know there are so many people who do without.

Every year, for as long as I can remember...My family has attended the Annual Terry Family Christmas Party. It's something I like to be apart of each year, to honor my MiMi. This was definitely her "thing" and it's sweet to keep the tradition going.

My Sweet Cousins

My Pretty Mama

Madden won this farm set while doing the gift walk.

He just loves those animals!

We went back to Aunt Jayme's after the party. Madden really enjoys her BIG dogs, Elvis and Gracie Mae! Jayme lets him help feed them yummy treats, and of course he always wants to give away some hugs. After he was done loving on Jayme's sweet children, Grammy, Madden, and I headed out to the mall to meet up with MiMi.

Our first stop was to Build-A-Bear. Madden had never made a bear before. He picked out which bear he liked and really was into watching the bear being stuffed and dressed.

Madden giving his new bear, Ranger, a big squeeze:)

Our next adventure was seeing Santa and Mrs. Claus.

As you can see, he is still not a fan...maybe next year:)

He was ALL smiles once he got to get on the Carousel.

He absolutely LOVES riding the horses.

Well, Madden's moving on up! It was time to make the transition to a big boy room and bed, so that the nursery can be used for Mason in April.

Mike did an AMAZING job on Madden's new big boy room.

It's a really cool baseball theme and I think it looks super unique.

I think any little boy would be happy to have a room like this!

Not only did Madden have to switch rooms completely, but he also went from a crib, straight into a twin-bed. We have only had a handful of nights were he has actually slept the whole night without waking up. We are very thankful for those nights, but poor Mike is the one waking up and having to end up sleeping with him. Madden only wants Mike during the night.

He is a major Daddy's Boy right now.

My favorite part of his room is the painting that Mike did on the wall. I love how he put his name on the back of the uniform. I think it adds a very special touch:) Mike worked so hard on this and I just adore how it turned out. Good job, honey!

This little leather baseball chair is what got us so excited about the theme of his room.

His bed is the perfect size and the bottom pulls out into a trundle;

which we hope will come in very handy one day.

Well, I'm almost 6 months pregnant! I don't think I ever shared the famous stick picture. Everyone has to have a picture like this....it just makes everything feel more real:) I found out I was pregnant the week before school actually started. What a nice way to start off the year!

Mike and I are excited, nervous, scared, and of course over-the-moon to be having another little boy. This picture was from our 20 week sonogram. Mason still needs to fatten-up some more, so that he looks more baby-like.

Mason has already proven to us that he can be a little stubborn. We have already had two sonograms rescheduled, due to the fact that he won't turn into the position they need him to,

to be able to check him completely from head-to-toe.

I go back to the doctor on January 9

and

back for another sonogram on January 13.

I hope he'll cooperate a little bit better, so that we can get some sweet pictures:)

I made this precious ornament on my computer.

Mason is definitely our little gift this Christmas!

On my mom's birthday eve, we went to Outback Steakhouse. This is one of her favorite restaurants. We always just do a small dinner with our immediate family....of course Jayme is like our second mother, so she has to be there, too! My really good friend, Pam, joined us as well! We had a really nice time celebrating my mom.

I so want this picture frame that my mom got from Aunt Jayme! I love it!

The three of us...just like the old days

Kaitlyn & Aunt Jayme

Aaron & Mom

Grammy & her sweeties

Amy & Landry

A really pale picture of Madden & I....I'm going to blame it on the flash or the lighting...

I sure hope I'm not THAT white:)

Aaron & Camden

After dinner, Mom, Pam, and I went shopping. Madden became very fond of the Old Navy dog. I actually think Madden looks like he could be part of the display. Ha!

I love this girl!

On my mom's actual birthday, Mike's dad took all of us out to eat at Pei Wei to celebrate. It was also Annie Mae's birthday. Together, they are 147!

Pont & I

Happy 56 Birthday, Mom!

Madden enjoying his train from Nana!

Mike & his dad

Madden had two different play-dates with two very cute girls today. First, we met RyLee and Kim at Pump It Up. Madden was a little unsure about everything at first, but it didn't take him long to warm up and start being adventurous. We will most definitely be going on more dates there. We all had a good time:)

It was so nice that Madden was able climb up to the slides on his own. We had his 2nd Birthday at Pump It Up back in August, and he was way too small to do all of this alone. It's a good thing that he is more independent now, since I'm about 6 months pregnant! I doubt that this body could handle going up and down over and over on these things:)

RyLee has the cutest little personality

Madden went down the Big Slide about 20 times!

A failed attempt at getting their picture made together

Love how big RyLee is smiling:)

We had high hopes for this picture, but it turned out to be a bust:(

I'm in love with this photo!

Madden had a blast!

Our next date was with Whitney and katy. We went over to their house for a few hours and made a gingerbread house and played. They were really getting into each other towards the end. They are both little hams! I just love seeing these two together!

They were very helpful with the decorating of the gingerbread house.

Madden ate most of the candy! He loved those sugar balls!

Whitney is not camera shy....I love that she smiles on command! Such a cutie!

Madden learned how to "blow someone down" today.

It's a little game that Katy and Whitney were playing. You just had to be there to get it:)

This was the end result of our gingerbread house. Two pregnant ladies and two 2 year olds! Don't judge....You know it looks good:)

We made up our own directions(I know that's hard to believe)!

This is just an assortment of pictures that were taken over the last month. They don't really fall into a category, but I definitely want to remember each of these moments.

Madden, Camden, & Landry

at Grammy's House

I wheeled through the 5k Prairie Lights Sneak Peek with my Starrett Family. Thanks, Grant! You pushed me like a pro:)

Morning Playtime Outside

Aunt Jayme bought Madden this really cool Cowboys football. She is so awesome!

Here's Madden and Cody at Snuggle Up and Read.

As you can see...Madden still likes to have his personal space:)

Madden is a People Watcher

An Exciting Moment

Amy and Madden made this really sweet snowman handprint ornament for me. This is such a special gift! Amy actually went over to my mom's house during one of her breaks at school. She was able to paint Madden's hand and everything. I was so surprised and impressed that she pulled this off. Madden is usually weird about anything being on his hands or them getting dirty. I guess Aunt Amy was convincing:)

This picture might not seem like anything, but Grammy and I were SO proud of Madden. This is the BEST he has EVER been while eating at the mall. It's normally a headache of a time, but he was so good and sweet. We were able to actually eat and enjoy a meal! Thanks, Madden!

We hauled this sweet little guy around all day Christmas shopping. He finally just gave up and konked out!

I could watch him sleep all day!

Finally, a bribe that works!

2011-11-17T21:07:00.000-08:00

Madden is on an antibiotic twice a day for ten days. The problem we were having was that he absolutely refused to take his medicine. We tried numerous little things to try and persuade him to take it: offered him candy, took away his favorite bedtime story one night, held on to what he wanted to do at the moment, but NOTHING worked. When we tried to get him to just swallow it real quick, he would ALWAYS spit it out.

Well, last night we thought we would trade him taking medicine for going outside to swing. It worked beautifully!!!!! We just couldn't believe it! Madden is incredibly strong-willed, but he gave in right away! We were so proud! Obviously, you can tell by the picture above that every drop of those meds were absolutely worth it. Yay, Madden!

Trying to warm back up from being outside. He was so cute digging in his little pockets:)

All ready for bed...Well, it was bedtime, but he wasn't ready to actually go to sleep. I think Mike finally won the battle of that at about 9:00! Mike is so good at getting Madden down each night. I am very thankful!

Mason Reid Morris... Another boy to melt our hearts!

2011-11-08T19:01:00.001-08:00

I know most of you already know what we are having, but my kids at school just found out today! I had the students wear pink if they think I am having a girl and blue if they are hoping for a boy. We did a few little gender activities and it was a lot of fun for the kids.

I love that they were able to share in our excitement!

This was my first attempt at getting Madden's picture, but I forgot the sign.

Of course he stopped smiling once I got the sign on the door!

At this point, he had just given up!

I think he thinks that being a big brother is already a tough job. Ha!

This was a little graph that we did in class today. My kids were right!

Here's the blue group...

And the pink group:)

Students made little books to match their vote.

This little girl was hoping for a baby girl. She wanted me to name the baby Madelyn. I just love her sweet description....BABY PEACH skin:)

I like how this little girl thinks if I have a boy I will be out for 10 days and if I have a girl I'll be out for 3 days. Oh, how I wish the recovery was that quick!

She also wanted me to consider the name Keisha for our little boy:)

Here is the name poster we made. The kids signed it with love!

Our Busy, Wonderful Life

2011-11-05T13:43:00.000-07:00

My last post was a little mini-post on Madden's Birthday. I have needed and wanted to post so much since then. I am going to attempt re-cap our life over the past 2.5 months. The most exciting news I have to share is that Mike and I are expecting baby number two in April! We are very excited! I know that Madden is going to be a GREAT big brother!

We can't wait to be a family of four!

Now let's rewind back to August. Madden turned two on the 14th. We had a fun party for him at Pump It Up with all of his friends and close family members. That night, Donna

Graham took his two year photos. She did an amazing job! There are over 100 that we just love, but I obviously can't post all of them, so here are some for you to enjoy)

Again, there are SO many more, but this was just a little taste.

Here are a few of my favorite pics from his birthday:

I am so in love with these two! I adore how crazy they are about one another!

It's pure sweetness!

I think Mike was having as much fun as Madden on the slide!

This one was just funny to me! This is what happens when you try and get 15 toddlers and young children all to sit and look at the camera at once. Hey, this is REAL life! Ha!

The next day we had to return to school:( It was also Madden's two year check-up.

You can just tell that Madden thinks two is way cooler than one! He is Mr. Independent now. He wants to do EVERYTHING by himself. He just acts like such a big boy! This was a picture of him I took at his appointment. Surely you notice the stuffed animal in the background. Yep, that's Clifford. Madden has found a new love for all of his little animal friends. They MUST go everywhere with him. Quite frankly, I think it's just adorable!

Dr. Mann still calls Madden his, "Little Football Player!" He weighed 34 lbs and was almost 37 inches tall. This boy is growing so fast. Maybe he really will be a big football player one day. However, football makes me nervous, so maybe we can try a safer sport:) Golf?

When I went to pick up Madden after my first day of school, It was clear to me how much he missed Landry. I think Landry and Madden have a little tough love going on now. One minute they are kissing and hugging, the next they are pinching and biting. BOYS!

It's Fall, so OF COURSE we had to go to the...

Last year, My best friend, Charity, and I took our boys to a local Pumpkin Patch. So, we decided to go back again together this year. I'm pretty sure that this will be one of those things that we do every year together. I love little traditions!

We knew Madden had grown into a big boy recently, but we didn't notice how much until I compared last year's picture to this years. What a difference a year makes!

We need a pause button!

Madden wanted to find a big pumpkin!

While he was looking, he got distracted. Of course he was fascinated by this stick he found!

I finally caught him in a still moment:)

Although he tried to pick up every pumpkin he could, he was actually just giving this one a hug.

"Mommy, I found one!"

"Hey, where did all the pumpkins go?"

Another awesome thing we celebrated for the second year in a ROW is that our Texas

Rangers earned their way to the World Series! I sure wish we could have taken the title as champions, but I am so proud of those guys! Go Rangers!!!!!! My Aunt and Uncle from Jackson Hole, Wyoming were in town, so my Aunt Jayme hosted a Rangers Night. Lots of fun, family, and laughter:)

Grammy and Madden

Aaron and I

Here's Madden getting ready to take a swing at the Pinata.

Uncle Gary & Aunt Mary

Madden had a fun Halloween Weekend. His little girlfriend, Whitney Wells, invited him to her pumpkin decorating party. This was Madden's first year to decorate pumpkins. He painted just as much as he wanted to. The other little girls really got into it. It was so cute! They are extra creative. Madden was enjoying the eye candy more than his pumpkin:) Ha!

Whitney telling Madden what to do:) I think he liked it:)

Adding a splash of color to his pumpkin

Madden sharing his snacks with Sophie

Thanks, Katy for having us over. We had a great time!

MiMi Morris and I took Madden to Trunk or Treat on Saturday night. Then, Mike and I took him to the Hallelujah Fest on Monday night. His favorite thing at both festivals was the bounce house. He was so cute saying, "Jump, jump, jump!" MiMi bought him a Lightening McQueen costume. He looked mighty handsome.

Of course Monkey had to come along:)

Superman grew up fast in one year!

I was a proud mama! Madden was saying, "Please" and "Thank you" every time he got candy!

Our little pumpkin was pooped after a couple of fun-filled days:)

These next set of pictures are completely random, but still something I look at and smile. Little moments....Make big memories

This was taken the day that we met Ashley and Parker at the park for a play-date.

Madden is a big fan of the slide!

It might appear that Madden is enjoying the ride in the swing, but that's not the case. This was taken in the first 10 seconds. He really wanted nothing to do with swinging:(

Madden obviously thought it would be fun to take these stickers and put them all over his face. We actually thought it was cute:) However, he threw the biggest tantrum when it was time to take them off. Mike even tried to save them and put them on a piece of paper for him. Madden was just not having that idea. This was just a typical night at the Morris residence:)

This was taken at my really good friend, Missy's house.

Madden had never jumped on a trampoline. He was in heaven!

On this particular day, I caught Madden doing his "UP and down" song that he learned in school this summer. It was just the most adorable little thing. Next time I will video tape him.

This is the most recent picture of Madden and Landry being little hams at Grammy's. I give my mom SO much credit for watching these two all day, every day of the week while we are all teaching. They sure do look cute just hanging out in the fridge:) What happens at Grammy's never stays at Grammy's though:( Ha! We love you, Grammy!!!!

Madden's Two Year Party

2011-08-27T19:11:00.001-07:00

Madden celebrated his two year birthday at Pump It Up with his friends and a few of our family members. Everyone had a GREAT time! It was such an easy party! Definitely the place to host a celebration! Thanks to all the party animals who came out to make Madden's birthday extra special!

We love you all!!!!!

Here is a slideshow from the party and the day after:) Enjoy!

Goodbye Twenties....Hello 30!!!

2011-08-02T09:36:00.000-07:00

Wow, I can't believe that Aaron and I are thirty! Not that it feels old or anything, but it seems like not too long ago we were having a surprise 16th Birthday party! So much has changed since those young days:) We are now all grown-up with families and lots of responsibilities. I really love where I am right now in my life.....PEACE.LOVE.THIRTY!

That's going to be my motto for this year!

I am pretty sure that Aaron and I did something on our Birthday that I don't EVER remember doing together. We actually went on a double date! First, we went to eat with our family and then to see a great movie. We might need to start making this a habit.
Thank you MiMi and Grammy for watching the munchkins for us!

Mom and I at our Birthday Dinner
Aaron and Amy
Kaitlyn and Camden
Landry and Madden
Grammy and her Sweeties
Aunt Jayme
Mike and I after the movie....
Thank you, sweet hubby!

I had the best time celebrating my 30th with my friends&family on my Birthday Eve.
I am so lucky to be surrounded by such awesome girls!
Each of them helped make the night so special and fun!
Pam-Me-Missy

Missy and I Waiting for our Table

Mom and Pam

Aunt Judy and I

Jayme and Pam

Mom and Melanie-BFF

Judy and Vicki

Laura and Emmy

Barbara and I

Allison and I

Cousins under the SPOTLIGHT!

Missy and BarbaraSiStErS

My sweet MIL and my pretty Mama
Friends since Grade School!
Good Times!
These are two of the sweetest girls I know!
Linds and I
Mike's Mom and I
I love my Missy!
Such a GREAT night!
Mel and Mom
Three of my favorite Girls
My really good friend, Becky! I am so happy that she was able to come:)
Missy and Allison
Jayme and I at the end of a late night....these lovely four eyes got us home:)

Pam stayed the night:) It was just like old times, only BETTER! We managed to keep our eyes open and our mouths running non-stop until 5:00 a.m.
The two of us could talk forever!
Don't you just love your best friends who are like that?

Then...
8:00
in
The
Morning
Came
TOOOOOOOOO
FAST!
I am still trying to recover:)

Madden had to get in on the Birthday fun the next morning!
He tasted the red velvet cupcakes and he approves!

Thanks Grammy for the Birthday cupcakes!

I love how my mom still decorates the boxes....she's so cute!

Thirty never tasted so good! Ha!

Happy Birthday, Mommy!

We went to the circus on the morning of my Birthday. Poor little Madden didn't really get into it. Eventually, we just had to leave. He wanted no part of it!
Mike has taken me to the circus every year on my Birthday since 2000! It's tradition:)
I love the circus, but we learned that Madden DOES NOT(at least not yet)!
We did a a little bit of everything throughout the week...

Thursday and Friday we went to the Gaylord and met up with my brother and his family. Overnight stays with a toddler aren't the easiest, but we all survived!

We went to the Paradise Springs Water Park one day.
It was a nice place to cool off!

Aaron's Kids

I only took a few pictures. I thought the kids were so sweet with each other in the hotel room.

Madden and Landry sharing a book:)
Yay! We love the Gaylord!

Saturday morning we went to RyLee's 2nd Birthday Party! Madden and her are only 10 days apart. she is the SMARTEST little girl and So cute!
Happy Birthday, RyLee!A table for two:)

Madden and I met our sweet friend, Kenli, for lunch one day last week. I was proud of my little guy for staying fairly well-behaved most of the time.

Madden enjoying some good old fashion Blue Bell at Braden's 3rd Birthday Party!Ash and Parker came over this week to play and swim! I didn't have my camera outside with me, but this is a cute picture I took of the boys at Toddler Time. Parker is a good little guy! Here's Madden and Buffy's boys, Brennan and Brett. They were playing inside the jungle gym , so it's a little hard to see how much fun they were actually having. Three sweet kids for sure!

I would say that I had a busy Birthday week, but that every minute of it was worth it.
I am looking forward to what this year has in store for us! I am hoping that 30 treats me well:)

Fun with the Wells!

2011-07-20T21:43:00.000-07:00

Madden and I went over to Katy and Whitney Wells' house for a play date today. We were really looking forward to the kids getting to meet each other and just hanging out. Katy was my big sis in cheerleading growing up. I just love her! We tried so hard to get a good pic of these two, but they are spunky!

One day.....Madden will be chasing her:)

Capri Suns make us HAPPY!

I have decided that Madden has been a bit of a pool pooper lately!
We will definitely be taking swimming lessons next year to get him better acquainted!

Wetting his toes:)

Another attempt at getting a picture together....Maybe next time:)

Lots of "sharing" toys, a little bit of swimming, and happy meals made for a good morning! Both of our kiddos took awesome naps...these sweet peas know how to wear each other out!
Thank you Whitney and Katy for having us over to play!
We had loads of fun!

Toddler Time With our Buddies

2011-07-14T12:32:00.001-07:00

We finally made it to Toddler Time today!

My friends, Stephanie and Kim, have been asking me to go for awhile now, but we have just been busy. So, I invited my sweet friend, Becky, and her little boy, Logan, to join us today!

Logan was so sweet to Madden!

They were so good about sharing the gym equipment:)

It took Madden awhile to warm up, but once he got comfortable, all was good.

Logan has the cutest personality! He was all wound up and ready to go all day! He's so energetic and you can tell he's just a really happy boy!
I am so glad that we were all able to go.
The boys had a great time and Becky and I got to catch up! After Toddler Time was over, we took the kids to Chili's. Madden devoured some french fries and oranges, while adventurous Logan dipped chips in salsa like a pro!
It was a fun morning!

I was looking back at how much the boys have changed since there last play-date about 8 months ago.
Here's a few pics of our sweeties from mid November...

Logan was wanting to give Madden a hug!

Having fun!

You know you have those friends who you really don't get to see a lot, but they are some of your greatest! I love Becky and her sweet Logan! We have made some special memories together and I know there are so many more to come! Here are some of my favorites:

Here we are at the NKOTB concert!
We had so much fun!

Becky and I at my shower for baby Madden

Becky and I at her shower for baby Logan....LOVED, LOVED, LOVED being pregnant together!

Becky came to visit Madden after he came home from Cook's! She is such a good friend:)
This was the day before Logan arrived!

Madden's first Birthday Party!

We were so bummed that we missed Logan's, but we will for sure be there this year:)

Madden's Favorite Word

2011-07-05T15:29:00.000-07:00

So Many Sweet Memories to Remember

2011-07-03T20:56:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I haven't posted since Easter! There are SO many sweet memories that I want to remember, so I just have to create this super long post! Read it! I dare you:)

Happy Father's Day 2011!

Mini-Mike! Madden being like his daddy for a sweet moment:)

I am so thankful to have such a loving and wonderful husband.
Madden is the luckiest little boy EVER! His daddy will do anything and everything in this world to ensure that he has the best life possible.
What more could a child wish for?

Thank you, Mike, for taking great care of our family! We love you!
Running Straight Towards Daddy
More than just his daddy....definitely his best friend!

We finally tried out the sprinkler ball that Grammy bought Madden. It was a great way to start out our Father's Day Sunday. Madden is in such awe over his daddy.
A sweet sight to see. These two handsome guys are my world!
Grammy offered to keep Madden over-night, so that Mike and I could enjoy a Father's Day date to dinner and a movie. Aaron and Amy came over to visit with the boys. Madden had a blast spending time with Landry and Camden. I am so thankful that Madden has such sweet cousins to be best friends with throughout the years. Thank you Grammy for giving us a night out.
Mike and I had a nice time! We really appreciate it!
I just want to brag on these three great men for a moment. I am thankful each and every day for these wonderful guys. I admire all of them for so many reasons. They couldn't be more DIFFERENT from one another, but that is a good thing. They are all special in their own ways and make me realize how lucky I am to get to call them my husband, my brother, and my dad.
Here's just a little thought on each of them...I LOVE how Mike lives to see Madden and I smile, EVERYTHING he does, is for US! I am proud of my brother for working so hard to provide for his wife and three kids, he's an amazing father! My dad is a creative genius. He has been doing what he enjoys....creating GREATNESS....for a living for what seems like FOREVER and he is absolutely loving it! I think that's pretty awesome! All of that reminds me of the phrase,
"Do what you love, and love what you do."
I just want each of them to know how much they are appreciated and loved by me!
My Husband

My Brother
My Dad

This is one of my dad's latest creations... A Dream Play House!
Did I mention that he is talented?
A Mother's Love
Mother's Day has come and gone, but there is not a day that goes by that I don't celebrate my mother. We did the whole out to eat thing, like we all do on these special days, but that's not the real token of appreciation that shows our mother's how much we really care! There is nothing I can write in this blog post that will even come close to explaining how much my mom means to me. You just can't put that kind of love into words. You know? Anyone who knows me, absolutely knows that my mom is my heart! I don't know what I would do without her in my life! I NEVER want to know:( Mom, I love you because.....
You are my best friend...
You are and were there for me during every BIG and small moment in my life...
I love that we talk on the phone every day, sometimes 10 times day...I love that you still hug me and tell me that you love me every chance you have....I love that you are willing to run to the store with me at midnight with 5 minutes notice, just because you still want to protect me....
I love you because you love me unconditionally on my good days and bad days...
I love you because you have sacrificed so much for me and I know you would do it all over again in a heart-beat...
But most of all Mom, I love you because you are simply YOU! Thank you for being the best mom I could have ever wished for. You are sweet as pie and if I can be half the mom you are, Madden will be lucky. I love, love, love you!
Madden is a "Student" and he's Changing by the Minute
Madden has started going to a preschool academy. He started almost a month ago and will finish up in August. He only goes two days a week. The first day he did GREAT! No tears! All the times since, he has been crying a river! No joke! All though he cries at drop-off, he ends up having a really good day. He always gets a really good report from his teachers. Madden apparently follows directions, shares well with others, and takes 2 hour naps without a problem! I am beginning to think that his two teachers are miracle workers! Mike and I would love to be flies on the wall to see these behaviors with our own eyes:)
I have to giggle at this picture above. We teased that Madden wouldn't survive (or the teacher's wouldn't survive) the first week of "school". Madden is used to being a little ham at Grammy's during the day! Climbing in drawers and just keeping my mom one step behind him ALL day! Bless her heart! She does an amazing job with him, but we knew that school would be a whole new world. Mimi has been taking Madden to school and picking him up for us, since we were teaching summer classes. Thank you, MiMi Morris. We so appreciate you helping us out. We could not have made it through the past three weeks without you! Mike and I are excited to start taking little man on our own next week.
We are hoping for some dry eyes! We shall see:)
I love how focused he looks! This was on his first day:)
Here are some pictures of Madden over the past two months...It's funny how you can see his little turkey personality shining in these pictures:)One of the many faces of MaddenMadden with the HUGE Games 2 U ball
This picture shows how tall he is getting. He is obsessed with opening doors!
Doesn't it look like he's about to bust out into the robot dance? Ha!Yay! I can make a mess on my head with my fruit bowl!He looks SO old here!
Dancing his little heart out in the kitchen
Look at those pearly whites
He loves a good bag of cheetos
One of the several days the he was trying my patience:)
Sweet Cheeks
Attempting to try the potty training thing....Not Succeeding....He's just not readyIsn't funny how kids have no concept of size? Oh, Madden....we love you!
Cute & Close Cousins
I just love these three little boys so much! Madden, Camden, and Landry are so sweet together. They really do enjoy each other. Camden is so loving towards Madden. I know that Madden is always going to think he is such a cool, big cousin. I love to watch Madden's eyes light up when he watches Camden play baseball. I love to hear Landry giggle when Madden is playing peek-a-boo. You have to smile REAL big when you see these sweet boys loving on each other. I am so thankful that Madden has these life-long buddies!
Sweet Kisses
Sweeter Hugs
Three Little Monkey's in the Tub
Madden & Landry...Never far apart:)
First Visit to the Witte Land
Amy's family invited us out to their land. We had never been, but had heard how much fun the kids always had. Madden LOVED the big slide and running around like a wild child! He even got to see the chickens. He was so good for the fireworks. I thought he might cry seeing them for the first time, but I was SO wrong. Here are some shots that I captured from our visit(before my camera died)...
Amy & Landry
Madden and GrammyMadden counting the flags....he had to pull out EVERY one!
Just a bunch of chickens!How sweet are Camden and Kaitlyn?
Uh, oh...Water in the Nose
Hi, guys!Precious Little LandryFearlessWeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Thanks, Uncle Aaron!
So fun!Having the time of his life!
Mom, "I think I need one of these for our house!" Love-Madden

Thank you so much Witte family for welcoming us today!
Mickey Michael
Here's his story: In July of 2007, we got a phone call from my aunt. She was excited to inform us that there was a Boston Terrier at the animal shelter who needed a good home. We already had Bailey and were planning on getting another Boston Terrier in the near future for her to grow up with. So, we were thrilled about the news! Mike fell in love with this dog instantly. From the minute that Mickey Michael entered our life, the responsibility of "caring for a dog", brought on a whole new meaning. To everyone's surprise, this wasn't just a regular dog that you put down food and water for, let in and out for restroom breaks, take on walks, and play with.
Mickey was VERY special. We found out that he had a rare disease, Congenital Mega-Esophagus. Basically, he was born without throat muscles. We bottle fed him for four years! Last month, Mickey became very ill. He was not taking his bottles well and was regurgitating a lot. Sadly, we found out that his esophagus had completely collapsed. We had a choice to make. In order for Mickey to survive, he would need to have a life-long feeding tube put in. The decision was very clear to Mike and I. The doctors assured us that he could have a painless, quality life. So, OF COURSE we had to save his life and have the tube placed. Mickey is doing well. Bailey, Madden, Mike, and I could not be more thankful that our little Mickey pulled through this! We love you, Mickey!
Mickey has to wear clothes now, so that his tube stays in place.
Sweet, Sweet Boy.....So Worth it!
WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS!
I am so proud of the Dallas Mavericks!
"The Dallas Mavericks and German star Dirk Nowitzki won their long-awaited first NBA title on Sunday, taking revenge on the Miami Heat by beating them 105-95 on their home court in Game 6 of the NBA finals." -NBC News
I so enjoyed all the watch parties I had with my friends. I am looking forward to next year's basketball season. GO MAVS!

Well, I think that about highlights our last two months:)
Note to Self: update blog on a REGULAR basis:)

Easter Weekend

2011-04-25T20:08:00.001-07:00

We started Good Friday off by taking a little trip to the mall. We met my brother and his family there for a little carousel fun! Camden and Madden are big fans of all the horses! Of course I wanted to get Madden's picture made with the Easter Bunny. I was hoping that this experience would go better than the Santa fiasco we had back in December. All the little kids ahead of us were just as smiley and happy as could be sitting on the Easter Bunny's lap. Then......It was Madden's turn. You can clearly see that he was traumatized. Poor little guy!

So after the mall became too much to handle, we decided to try and get a bluebonnet pic. Grammy and I took Madden out to a location where there were tons of bluebonnets last week. Well, it looks like we were a little too late. You can barely see what was left, but it's the best we could find. This picture makes me realize how fast my my baby is growing up. Last year at this time, he was beginning to crawl and now he is a little ball of energy that we can hardly keep up with!
He definitely keeps us on our toes!

Grammy and I decided that we would try to take Madden out to eat. We are so brave! He seemed to enjoy El Fenix. What little boy wouldn't have a blast throwing everything on the floor and trying to eat crayons? We did manage to survive! :)
Oh, Madden......I love you!

Mike, Madden, Grammy, Mimi, and I went to the zoo on Easter.
It was Madden's first Visit!

He did REALLY well. He stayed nice and calm most of the time and just soaked it all up. I think he really enjoyed just being outside. He seemed fascinated more by all the people than the animals. I am sure he will start to notice the animals a little more as he gets older. I am definitely glad we went. The weather was absolutely beautiful and it wasn't overly crowded.

The collage above is from the zoo and the egg hunt. Of course I had to add my favorite pic of my two loves as well:) Madden just ADORES Mike! He has been a major daddy's boy since day one:) They are so sweet together. It makes my heart go crazy to see the over-pouring amount of love that they have for each other. Madden is so lucky to have such an amazing daddy!

Madden fell in love with his Easter basket! He was so cute collecting all his eggs. We didn't end up hiding them. I decided it would be fine just to spread them out around the front yard. He was so happy running around gathering them. I think he emptied his basket out at least 10 times! So, we just kept starting over. It was great!

Thank you Grammy and Mimi for all the Easter goodies and the basket.

This is a random pic from the end of the day. I just thought Madden looked too cute in my sunglasses. I sure wish he hadn't of broken them right after these pics, but he had fun while they lasted.
He is such a little ham!
We are constantly laughing ourselves silly over everything he does!

Happy Easter, 2011!

Love,
Mike, Ashley, & Madden

Madden is 20 months(4/14)!

2011-04-16T17:01:00.000-07:00

Where has the time gone?

Madden is truly our little monkey! He keeps us laughing with his unique and entertaining personality. We are starting to see some big changes with him lately. This morning, clear as anything, he said to the dogs, "GO, GO, GO!" He "talks" non-stop, but I really think he is going to start taking off with some language we can understand VERY soon. I might be kicking myself for this later, but I can't wait for him to be chit-chatting all the time....with his big boy words!

This and That of 20 months:
30 lbs.

Size 5 diapers

18 month-2T Clothes

Still Sleeps at least 12 hours uninterrupted during the night(We scored in this department)

CURRENT favorite food- Green Beans, oranges, and Ham(HATES Bread)

What he's most interested in doing at home- CLIMBING, running, throwing things, getting into the refrigerator/freezer, organizing, doing puzzles, building with his blocks, LOVES his books, and making lots of messes with his toy stash! He is just a typical little boy!

What I'm most looking forward to is wearing ourselves out at the pool this summer and having playdates! He has lots of girlfriends that he really needs to spend time with:)

I just love this picture! I wish he would drink out of a straw like this all the time, but it ends up being more of a toy than anything! The fact that he CAN drink out of a straw makes me happy:)

This picture makes me laugh! He is so in love with his ice cream cone. It amazes me that he didn't part from it during his little nap. As soon as we woke him up, he just started where he left off and continued licking it.
So funny!
I think he's going to take after PaPa Layne when it comes to ice cream.
Blue Bell was his middle name:)

This little 4-square is a mixture of this past month. The first pic was from a sleepover he had a MiMi's. Next to that is when he was pouting because he didn't want to leave the cemetery. He LOVES, LOVES, LOVES running around outside, so he wasn't a happy camper when I had to strap him back in his car seat. Obviously, he had a little help from me on his picasso pic. He held the markers, but didnt' quite push down hard enough, so I put my hand on top of his and he went to town with his motions. The last pic was from the Dr. visit we had last week. Madden tested positive for strep.
We had some rough days, but he is 100% well now:)

These sleeping pics just melt my heart. He falls asleep everyday on the way home from Grammy's. He plays his little heart out and just absolutely refuses to take naps on most days. I'm thinking that's why we have such an amazing sleeper on our hands!

Happy 20 Months, Madden!
You are the love of our lives!

Happy Birthday to TWO CUTIES!

2011-04-03T20:04:00.000-07:00

Happy 35th Birthday, Mike!

Yesterday was my husbands birthday AND my nephews first birthday party! We were able to celebrate Mike's birthday earlier in the day. Then, Madden and I were off to Landry's party. Mike stayed home and enjoyed a "ME" day, since it was his birthday.
I hope Mike had a wonderful day.
He is such an amazing husband & daddy and definitely deserves the best!

Happy 1st Birthday, Sweet Landry!

Amy and Aaron's little monkey is just too cute! He is the happiest baby EVER! I am so lucky to be his aunt. Madden just loves him, too! Grammy watches Landry and Madden for us on school days. Madden, Landry, and Camden are already so close!
I love that Madden has such precious cousins to grow up with!

Landry LOVED his cake!
This picture makes me laugh! Madden is so concerned about the mess Landry is making. Anyone who knows Madden.....understands that he is just funny like that! He HATES for his own hands to be dirty and if things aren't just like he wants them......then he has HUGE problem with it!

Sweet Giggles

Kaitlyn is so great with these kiddos
Beautiful Family

Silly Camden

Landry's all clean!

Grammy Loves Landry

MiMi & Grammy

It's nearly impossible to get a good pic with him and I together!

Loving the slide

My ball!

Such a big boy now!

Family

Aaron and his MIL, Debbie

Emmy, Judy, Laura

Madden had a blast at the party, but he was knocked out as soon as we hit the road!

Thank you Sossamon Family for inviting us over to celebrate today!

An Angel Celebration

2011-03-13T22:24:00.001-07:00

For the past seven years, the week of March 7-March 13 has always left us with heavy hearts. When someone (who you just absolutely feel you have to have in your life for your heart to continue beating) is suddenly taken away, it just shatters you into fragile pieces. My family has slowly pieced ourselves back together a sweet memory at a time. We still have cracks that will forever remain on our hearts, but we are definitely 7 years stronger! Our precious Erika went to heaven on March 7, 2004. We then celebrated her life(6 days shy of being 27) on March 13, 2004! This is why this has always been a stormy week for my family. I decided that we were going to have some brighter days this week in 2011!

On the 7th, we went to Outback and had a great time with lots of smiles! Erika loved that place!

Then, today we celebrated Erika's 34th Birthday and MiMi & PaPa's 68th wedding anniversary! I just felt that this year we needed to do something different and celebrate these three lovely angels with a little family gathering. Mike & I, Mom, and Jayme put together a little party at my house and it turned out beautifully. It was a special day with special friends....remembering Special loved ones. We had a wonderful time!

Our "E" is for Erika Red Velvet Cupcakes

After the party, Mom, Madden, and I went out to the cemetery to put flowers out. Amy, Erika's close friend, had put some pretty Gerber Daisies(my sisters favorite) on Erika's marker yesterday. So, we just brought flowers for MiMi & PaPa. Going out to the cemetery today was something that made me feel really good.

On the way home, mom told me the story of Erika's birth. She has NEVER shared that with me, so it was super special. Then, a song that was very fitting came on the radio. It was called, "If Heaven Wasn't So Far Away". Isn't it funny when something happens like that just at the right moment? I know our Angels had a hand in that one:) Thanks Erika, MiMi, and PaPa for teaching us what LOVE really is! You three are FOREVER in our hearts! We love you!

Love is in the air & Our Love Bug is 18 months!

2011-02-20T20:08:00.000-08:00

Somehow, our sweet Madden is 18 months old already! How did that happen? He is acting more and more like a little "boy" everyday!

Mike and I think he is just the most awesome Valentine EVER!

We started our Valentine's weekend out by going to Camden's 3rd Birthday Party. It was at the carousel at the Mall. Madden has always loved the carousel, but he just wasn't much of a party animal that night. I think he was just really tired:( Regardless, We were happy that we got to celebrate with the birthday boy!
Here is Madden with his other cousin, Landry. They are best buddies:)

Saturday, Mimi Morris wanted to spend some time with Madden. She thought it would be nice for him to have a sleepover at her house, so that Mike and I could enjoy an early Valentine's date together. As much as we missed Madden, it was really nice to have some alone time. We were able to go out to dinner and actually eat. Then, we went and saw the movie, Just Go With It! It was really good! Sunday, we were ready to pick up Mr. Madden! We can't stay away too long! Thank you Mimi for the "break". We enjoyed our date:)
Madden really loves playing with Prince at Mimi's!

Monday, Mimi took off work for Madden's 18 month check-up. Her and I took monkey man to see Dr. Mann bright and early. I am pretty sure he was still half-way asleep! He had this look on his face most of the time like, "Really, Mom...You are doing this to me at the crack of dawn....and you're taking pictures!"
He clearly was not a fan of the scale! He weighed an off the charts 30 lbs, 9 oz! He is almost 35 inches tall, just a big boy all around! Oh, Madden, that just means that there is more of you to love! No worries:) Dr. Mann says that you are doing great! You got one shot today and you weren't a happy camper! Mimi came to the rescue:)
He was better once he was able to get dressed and play with the rolling stool.

I hated to leave my little love-bug, but I had to go to work. I knew that Mimi Morris would take really good care of him and love on him all day for us!
By the time we left the doctor, he was clearly feeling just fine:) I couldn't wait to get back home to my two valentine's. Mike had a pizza and roses waiting for me! Madden was just as happy as he could possibly be! Grammy brought him a little shopping cart over the night before and he was just on cloud 9!
Thank you Grammy!

Mike thinks this is just the cheesiest pizza ever! I am a nerdy romantic and I think it is lovely! Thank you Papa Johns!
Our Little Shopper....I love how he has Scout in his buggy:)
Fire and Ice roses are so beautiful! They are an instant mood booster!

Thank you Aunt Amy for the cute Valentine shirt:)

Here is a little bit of what Madden has been up to lately.....a look into the life of an 18 month old!
Independent
Professional

Mess

Maker!

Madden is growing up too fast!

Still loves to play in the kitchen!
He is obsessed with his play food and can identify ALL of it....Such a smart little cookie! I sure wish he would start talking about how much he loves his food! His favorite thing to do write now is ORGANIZE! He loves to put things in groups and "straighten." The child even has found a love for sorting laundry. Madden is definitely our little helper!
Mike and I came across this in one of our parenting books....If you have any children at all.....You absolutely have to know that this is right on the money! Enjoy!

Toddlers Creed

If I want it,
IT'S MINE!

If I give it to you and change my mind later,
IT'S MINE!

If I can take it away from you,
IT'S MINE!

If it's mine it will never belong to anybody else,
No matter what.
If we are building something together,
All the pieces are mine!

If it looks just like mine,
IT'S MINE!

If it breaks or needs putting away,
IT'S YOURS!

Our Pride & Joy

2011-01-18T19:34:00.000-08:00

MADDEN REID

YOU

ARE

LOVED!

Love, Family, Friends, and Celebrations Make the World Go Round!

2011-01-05T00:02:00.000-08:00

Today(1/4) is our wedding anniversary! Mike and I have been married for 8 years! I love this man with everything that I am. I am grateful to have him as my husband and best friend. He is an amazing daddy to Madden. Mike takes such good care of our family. I am truly blessed!

Grammy's Birthday

On December 21st, my mom turned 55! We went on a small family outing to Outback; which is her favorite place! I hope we all made her birthday special. She means the world to us and deserves the best out of life. Mom, we are so thankful for you! You are our "SUPER GRAMMY"!!!!!

We love you to the moon and back!

Amy & Aaron

Jayme & Kaitlyn

Me with the Birthday girl

Over the holiday break, we got to spend some time with one of my closest childhood friends. I am so happy that our friendship is so strong. We hadn't seen each other in over 10 years, but it is like we never even skipped a beat! The best part is that Mike loves this girl! Pam and her hubby, Bryan, are wonderful! WE have had an amazing time hanging out over these past two weeks. We enjoyed going to the gun range, out to eat, D & B, and letting loose with Wii Karaoke and Just Dance! Oh, what fun it was! We are already looking forward to future plans!

Bryan & Mike on NYE

Pam & I on NYE

Mike, you can't hide!
The Camera is your friend:)

Ringing in the New Year with my GREATEST friend!

We celebrated Christmas on Christmas Eve at our house. Our whole family came over! I don't remember the last time that we were all able to spend Christmas together; which made this year extra special. Amy even got a family pic of Mike, Madden, and I. Mike's not a fan of pics and usually is very camera shy. So, thank you Amy for taking it.

The Family:

Uncle Jude & Aunt Judy

Fred & Cousin Laura

The SiSiTeRs.... Judy, Mom, & Jayme

John & Emmy

Cousins

Landry & Amy

Mimi Morris & Madden

Aaron

Just kidding! All of the grandchildren are angels......most of the time!

Sweet Landry

Cute Camden

Pretty Kaitlyn

Precious Madden

Big Hit White Elephants

Aaron's Fancy Flamingo

Aunt J opened the best treasure of all....

Or did kaitlyn?......

but, then the antlers got snatched! Sorry, Kaitlyn!
You will appreciate this one day:)

MADDEN

LOVES

HIS

KITCHEN!

Traditions

This is a very special movie for me. This was the very last movie that I saw in the movie theater with my sister. I remember Mike taking Erika and I to see Elf like it was yesterday. Every year, since she passed away Mike and I have watched this movie together at Christmas. This year, I decided to turn it on during our Christmas Eve puzzle. I'm not sure if anyone, except for Mike really knows the significance of what this movie means to me. This is a memory that I will always hold dear to my heart.

Family Puzzle Time

Growing up we did a puzzle at Mimi and Papa's every year! Mimi loved a good puzzle! It was so nice to gather around the table and work on something as a family. It's the simple things like this that bring families together. Jayme found an awesome 1000 piece Rangers Puzzle! My family had the bulk of the puzzle done by the end of the night.

Mike was holding out on us with his puzzle skills, because he had it finished in no time by Christmas Day.

Christmas Day was

very low key and peaceful. Nana arrived from Lubbock! We were so happy that she could come visit us and spend some quality time with Madden. My mom brought dinner over for us and Mimi and we just had a nice relaxing night. Grammy and I bathed Madden and got him in his Christmas P.J.'s. Of course he had to make one last visit to the Christmas tree before bed. Thank you Grammy, Mimi, and Nana for celebrating with Mike, Madden, and I on Christmas Day! We love you all!


The Morris Family loves Nana! Thanks for making the trip to see us! We miss you and cherish the times that we do get to spend with you. Mostest!

Dashing through December

2010-12-19T20:56:00.000-08:00

Here is what we have been up to this month in a "blog-shell":)

Grammy, Mimi, and I took Madden to see Santa for the first time! As you can see....He loved him! Honestly, it's just a given that little one's aren't fans of sitting on Santa's lap. Is it bad that I think the screaming pics are the cutest? This will be a great memory to look back on when he's older.

He was seriously traumatized! He buried himself up against Grammy and didn't want anything to do with Mommy. I'm pretty sure he thought I had betrayed him!

Dreaming on Mimi

Mike is so wonderful! While we were visiting Santa, he stayed home and put up the Christmas decorations! Husbands are the best!

He also got adventurous and decided to paint the wall red after putting up the tree! I love it!

Madden's little Christmas tree

Daddy, Madden, and Mommy's stockings are hung. This is our first year to have stockings!

I thought I would be able to get some sweet pics of Madden in his Christmas P.J.'S. It's very hard to get a 16 month old to cooperate and smile, while looking right at the camera. Here's the best I got.

Take 1

Take 2

Take 3

Take 4


Take 5

Mike, Grammy, Madden, and I went to the cemetery to take Erika, Mimi, and papa some flowers. We miss all three of them so much! Even more so during the holidays. Madden seemed to know just which marker was Erika's, because he just went a plopped his cute self right on it! They would have absolutely adored one another! It was a bitter-sweet moment.

Madden has also had a couple of sleepovers at Mimi's recently. She always gives us a good report and this was one of the many happy pics from his time away from home. I'm sure....What happens at Mimi's.....Stays at Mimi's!

The first Saturday of December, for as long as I can remember, my family has been going to the Terry Christmas party. I am not always in attendance, but this year I was. Madden and I decided that we needed to go. He enjoyed running around and playing with his cousins. However, I did not have a blast chasing him. I need to invest in a leash!!!!!

Caught him for a pic

So much to look at


Partied like a rock star! Time for some beauty sleep!

Random Cuteness!

Melts Our Heart

Looking handsome, just like daddy

This weekend we went to Tyler to spend some time with Mike's dad and his family. We had a nice visit:)

I love him!

My Sweet Peas

Maci Jo giving Madden some love

Cutest Cousins Ever

Happy 90th Birthday, Annie Mae!

Turkey Day 2010

2010-11-26T19:19:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving!
May your heart be as full as your tummy!

Our Little Turkey

I am very thankful for my life and the people in it! First, let me explain the picture above....Ever since my sister passed away in 2004, I have been drawing these special little pictures. Some people might think this is a strange way of expressing my feelings, but it really makes me feel good. It's my own way of healing, so if it is considered crazy, I am fine with that:)

Yesterday we went to Aaron and Amy's for Thanksgiving. It was great to be surrounded by my wonderful family. It started out with just Mike, Madden, The Sossamon family, Mom, Jayme, and I. Then, Mike had to leave of course to take care of our other children (Mickey & Bailey), but he was remembered through his tasty cookies! Then, the Prather gang and family made an appearance. I always love catching up with my cousins! They are more like big sisters to me! I really enjoyed watching Madden play with his cousins; which I know will be more like brothers to him one day. Madden has fallen in love with Camden's play kitchen, so that's what Santa is going to have to bring him. Mike said, "It will be sad if Madden learns to cook before you, Ashley!" A little funny, but so VERY true! I'm so incredibly blessed for all the wonderful loved one's in my life!

Enjoy some more pics of my A-M-A-Z-I-N-G family! Mike is taking Madden and I out to the cemetery tomorrow. He has already promised that I can take a picture of him. You better believe that I will be posting it! He's a little camera shy, so pics are few and far between.

Aunt Jayme & Madden

Jayme & I

Grammy & Landry

Emmy, Landry, & Laura

Fred & Landry

Aaron & Amy

The Eskridge's

Emmy & I

Too cute! Amy & Camden

Fred & Laura

Beautiful Sisters!

Mama Jo & I

Sweet Kaitlyn & Amy

The Three of Us

Aunt J & Mr. Landry

Halloween Weekend!

2010-11-01T20:48:00.000-07:00

Dear Nana,

2010-11-01T19:42:00.000-07:00

Thanks for coming to see us! Even though it was short, we LOVED the time we got to spend with you, Suzie, and Gayla! We sure wish you all lived closer!

Madden wanted to tell you a few things about your next visit.....

Nana, you and I will push my puppy around.......

and play ball......

and eat lots of ice cream....

and take LOTS of naps together!

We love you Nana!

Mike, Ash, and Madden

14 Months

2010-10-14T19:11:00.000-07:00

Madden turned 14 months old today! I honestly think he grows EVERY day, or at least I know his attitude is getting bigger! He still has a really sweet personality and is very loving, but he also has shown signs that he is boss....so he thinks:) For example, this past weekend he decided to start biting me (Yes, only me, not Mike) when he didn't get his way. He totally caught me off guard, I didn't expect my little monkey to sink his precious little teeth into his mommy (who was just trying to prevent him from getting hurt). Well, apparently he was sending me a message. The good news is that he hasn't bitten me since Monday; which I really appreciate!

This was taken right after I took his snack away. He has this thing where he takes his cheerios one-by-one and throws them on the floor. We are trying to put a stop to that, so he just loses his snack when he does that. I know this is bad practice, but once he starts crying, it doesn't take long for me to give them back. That usually doesn't work with Mike. I think he's going to have to be the heavy when it comes to discipline. I'm just a softy!

Pondering....."What am I going to get into next?"

Something has caught his attention.

Of course it was something he wasn't supposed to get into. This was the look he gave me when I told him, "No!" This face has attitude written all over it!

This was a sweeter moment:)

These pictures were taken a few weeks ago, but I still wanted to post them. You can really tell how much he has changed in just a few short weeks. The pic above was when he was just starting to walk around more. At this time, he was still a little insecure about falling down. It's amazing how one day he doesn't have the confidence and then the next he is fearless! Below is the pic from our visit to Aunt Jayme's. We went to watch the Cowboy game and hang out with Uncle Gary and Aunt Mary. We sure wish they lived closer, so that we could see them more often.

I thought I would save the best stuff for last!

This is one of my favorite phrases of all time! The book alone just warms my heart! Of course, I always think of Madden when I read it. Despite the tantrums and biting, I would never change anything about our little love bug. He is absolutely perfect to Mike and I. He is the apple of our eye and we just love him to pieces!

Madden,

There are so many things that your daddy and I love about you. Actually, we adore EVERY ounce of you, but I'll just list the first 14 thoughts that come to mind......since you are 14 months old today:)

1. We love how your smile lights up the room.

2. We love how your sweet giggles are music to our ears.

3. We can't help but to hang onto every last word that slips off your precious lips.

4. It is so exciting to watch you accomplish new things, you are always so proud of yourself!

5. We feel so loved by your hugs and kisses and can never seem to get enough!

6. We love how you instantly feel safe in the arms that love you.

7. Mommy loves how silly you get when you and daddy play, "Chase Mommy!"

8. We love how fascinated you are by your green toothbrush. I'm not quite sure how we would EVER get you ready for bed without it!

9. We think it is too cute how you say, "Puppa" instead of "Puppy". Also, your favorite words are Bye-Bye, Daddy, and Ball! You can be a real chatterbox at times. It will be so nice when we can really understand what you are saying. We can't wait to see what you'll say next! Your mommy is a talker, so I no once you really start....there will be no stopping you:)

10. We are so pleased that you are already developing a love for books. You LOVE to be read to!

11. We are thankful that you are an AMAZING sleeper! You sometimes sleep up to 14 hours a night.

12. We are totally in awe of your unique personality. You are so fun and unbelievably entertaining to watch! You play so hard! We can see all your big ideas shining through.

13. We love how with just one look at you.....we fall head over heels in LOVE all over again.

14. We are the luckiest parents to have been blessed with such a special baby boy!

We love you,

Mommy & Daddy

Much Needed Update

2010-09-18T20:02:00.000-07:00

Our Happy Little Guy!

Madden is growing up so fast! He is 13 months and 4 days. I love how he has been exploring walking lately! It's the cutest thing ever:) We have said goodbye to formula and hello to more money:) He is super satisfied with just his milk, but now we have to eventually become bottle free. Our goal for that is October 1....we'll see how well that works.

Today, Mimi Morris came over for a play-date with Madden, while Mike and I went on a grown-up date. It was so nice to be able to go out to lunch and to a movie.....just us two. Thanks, Mimi! You have no idea how much we apprecaite you. We had a great time.

We wish Madden would let us put hats on him all the way. He looks so stinking cute in a hat....especially his Daddy's:)

Rub-a-dub-dub! This was a nice end to a happy day!

Grammy does such an amazing job taking care of Madden and Landry for all of us. We are so lucky to have her! Our mind is always at ease during the day, because we know that Madden is in the best hands possible. Thank you Grammy for loving our little sweetie with all your heart! We are all so thankful:)

Grammy says that Madden really loves Landry. He enjoys giving him kisses and "petting" his head. She also told us that Madden said, "baby". I'll have to hear that one for myself:) Madden and Landry are going to have such a special bond. I know Grammy cherishes getting to spend all these sweet moments with her grandboys.

Grammy and sleepy Madden before his 7:00 a.m. 1 year check-up

Sitting like a good boy on the scale
25 lbs. 4 oz. 32 inches tall!

Getting a little love from mommy, before the big bad shots.

First day of teacher workday:(

I was so sad to leave my little guy, but he was so excited to be at Grammy's, so that made me feel better:) We are back into the full swing of teaching. Mike and I are really enjoying our students and both have a good class. I think this is going to be a GREAT school year.

Madden LOVES books! Grammy reads to him every day and we read to him at night. We are hoping Madden will turn into a bookworm like his Daddy and Mimi.

Shopping with Grammy

Shopped until he dropped!

Happy 1st B-Day, Madden!

2010-08-14T20:51:00.001-07:00

Happy First Birthday, Madden! You are mommy and daddy's whole world! Our hearts are over-pouring with love for you! We cannot believe that you are already one! A year ago today, we were blessed with you. You spent a month in the NICU, because you weren't eating very well. That seems hard to imagine now. You are an amazing eater! You are so healthy! We are already dressing you in 18 month clothes and size 4 diapers. You have started drinking whole milk and are trying more and more "real" food each day. So far, you seem to like mash potatoes best! You are cruising around all the furniture, crawling anywhere and everywhere you can, and balancing like a big boy! You love to slam doors and throw things! You are most fond of toy balls and blocks! You are sleeping about 12 hours a night and you have finally started taking a scheduled 1-2 hour nap every day. Your personality is so fun! Your are the sweetest little guy EVER! Mommy and Daddy can't get enough of your kisses, grins, and giggles! We are so thankful for you! We love you!

Yesterday, we took Madden to get his pictures made! He was a pro! There were no tears and he cooperated fantastically with the photographer. We were very pleased with the results.

Frame shopping.....HERE WE COME!

We had a great party for Madden at our house today! We appreciate all our family and friends who came to help celebrate. Madden has no idea how much he is loved! Thank you Grammy and Mimi for helping prepare this special day for our little Monkey! We are truly thankful!

Picture Parade

2010-07-16T19:54:00.001-07:00

I have been a lazy blogger! For tonight, I am just going to post some pics from the past month! Enjoy!

Water Baby

2010-06-20T19:04:00.000-07:00

Madden, Charity, Braden, Grammy, and I went down to our community pool yesterday. We had a great time! Madden mainly just floated around in his turtle and took it all in:) This was his first time in a big pool. Braden did a lot of playing and Charity did a lot of fetching....of course, she had to retrieve all of his toys:) That's how Mike and feel when we are home. Madden is ALWAYS throwing EVERYTHING. It's a boy thing!
Madden and Mr. Turtle

He was grinning and waving at Charity:)

Seriously, Grammy! Another picture!

Having fun in the sun!

Mike Jr.

Braden

Charity and little Harvill

I could get used to going down to the pool every weekend. We will definitley have many more pool dates this Summer!

Happy 10 months, Madden!

2010-06-14T20:03:00.000-07:00

Our little roly poly is 10 months old today! We adore everything about him! This is the only pic I took of him today, because he was super fussy. Every baby has his days....and his was TODAY!

Madden is growing and changing right before our eyes. He has achieved all of his developmental milestones, so we are just waiting to see what he surprises us with next. One of his favorite things to do right now is turn off all the lights. We go from room-to-room, so he can flip all the switches. He also is obsessed with looking at himself in the mirror....he knows a pretty sight when he sees one:) We are definitely venturing out of the house more these days. He loves to go out to eat and shopping! Our little guy is just a pure joy! I can't believe that we will have to start planning his 1 year B-day party soon. It just doesn't seem possible.

Sweet Sunday

2010-06-13T18:52:00.000-07:00

Oh, how I wish every day was Sunday. We had such a nice day. Mimi Morris came over to watch Madden so that Mike and I could go on a date. We were able to go out to eat and to a movie; just us two! Then the best part of all.....we came home and took a

N-A-P! I'm not sure we even know what that word means anymore:) Thank you Mimi Morris for giving us a day to enjoy each other....It was MUCH needed!

Madden and I went to the Sossamon's this afternoon while Mike finished up the yard work. Madden pretty much watched Camden's every move. Now that Madden is getting a little bit older, he can interact with Camden better. He definitely noticed sweet Landry more today, than he did on our last visit. It was nice just to hang out with my brother and his fam:) I can't help but to think that they ARE going to be best friends! They are too sweet with each other!
Something interesting has caught their attention
Hey, Madden! I have a secret to tell you:)
I want to kiss you....because I love you!
I love you so much....I'm coming back for seconds:)
I really like the rolls on your legs!
Uncle Aaron takes good care of me when it's just Mommy and Me visiting.

Camden was pointing and saying, "Ashy car, Ashy car!" I know I've said this before, but I think my nephew is BRILLIANT and absolutely adorable!

Grammy's House

2010-06-12T18:48:00.000-07:00

Grammy was so happy that we came to visit today! She hasn't seen Madden since Monday. I know it's only 5 days, but she's used to seeing him almost EVERY day. I know they miss each other. He's definitely still in good hands though. Madden has been having a lot of fun with Mimi Morris, while Mike and I are teaching Summer School. We appreciate her so much for taking care of our sweet boy. She's on babysitting duty for 13 more days!
Madden waiting patiently for Grammy's "airplane" to land in his mouth. He's not going to risk missing it, by smiling for mommy!
Now I'll smile for you, Mommy:)
Grammy let's me eat like a big boy. This is how a little guy should drink his bottle......

INDEPENDENT & RELAXED!

All fed and happy

Trying to decide if I like Grammy's new couch...
It does feel pretty good...

Ok, Grammy...We can keep it.

I LOVE it!

Hugs for Grammy!

Good morning, Sunshine!

2010-06-09T18:41:00.000-07:00

"Uh, Oh. Mommy caught me!"

"It's so nice to go from my tummy to sitting up all by myself!"
"Watch what else I can do!"
"I'm such a big boy! My daddy will have to lower my bed soon....or his little monkey might escape!"

A Milestone filled Memorial Day Weekend

2010-06-02T20:55:00.000-07:00

Happy Memorial Day!

We had a good Memorial Day weekend. The main attraction was watching Madden crawl! He has been getting from place-to-place now for a while, but he is finally crawling EVERYWHERE now! I think Mike and I were more excited than he was. My mom kept telling us that he had been crawling at her house for a long time now...I guess he was just holding out on Mommy and Daddy.
Mimi Morris came over on Saturday to visit. She got to spend some quality time with Madden; which is always nice. She has offered to watch Madden for us while we are teaching Summer school. Mimi is going to get to love on our little guy for 16 whole days! This week has been filled with Milestones! In addition to crawling, I found Madden sitting up in his crib this morning! So, that means that he can go from his tummy to sitting. Again, my mom says, "He's been doing that for a long time now!" Gosh, Mike and I miss out on so much during the day. He is also waving hi and clapping!
A few weeks ago, I posted about some of Madden's recent fears. Well, he is FEARLESS now! He used to be terrified of this scary looking owl from one of his books that I read to him at night. He now stares at this owl with a smile. I'm so proud! I thought for sure he would forever be traumatized of owls! He also is brave now for the mooing cow and the blender. Isn't it funny how feelings can change so quickly?
Madden loves this lion that Grammy bought for him to play with at her house. He loves it SO much that she bought him a second lion to keep at our house! Grammy knows how to keep our baby boy happy!

Here's Madden hugging his lion....And kissing his lion:) XOXO!

Pretty soon he'll be riding around the house on his lion!
Monday was a nice day. Mike, Grammy, Madden, and I went to eat lunch at Campo Verde. The food was less than appetizing, but Madden got to see the train, so it wasn't a total loss. After lunch, Mike drove us to the cemetery. All the flags looked great, but we were sad that Papa didn't have one:( On the way home, Mike was sweet enough to wait patiently in the Snowflake Factory line! They have the best Coconut snow cones! We had a relaxing Memorial Day weekend.

Much Love!

TGIF

2010-05-28T17:54:00.001-07:00

Madden playing at Grammy's

I am so glad it's the weekend! I can't believe Madden only has one more week with Grammy. I know he's going to miss her, but we are going to schedule multiple-outings per week over the Summer. I'm sure she'll still talk to him on the phone EVERY DAY; just as she does now. She just can't get enough of him! August will be rolling around soon and Madden will have to share Grammy with Landry; which I'm so happy about! She has plenty of love to go around and I want Madden and Landry to grow up together. Lot's of special memories will be made for sure:)

Sunday Outing

2010-05-23T19:12:00.001-07:00

This is how our day went....

Here's Madden sitting on our bed this morning. He loves just to hang out. He had no idea that mommy was going to take him out and about today, while daddy worked in the yard. We are major home-bodies, so I'm really going to try and get him out of the house more often.
Madden, Grammy, and I went to eat lunch at Campo Verde. This is Madden's 4th time at this restaurant. I think he's starting to notice the train now. It's pretty dark inside, but he's amazed by all the different lights. It's probably sensory overload, but he seems to enjoy the atmosphere.
Then we took a trip to Michael's! This was his first time in a shopping cart. He did fantastic! The store was bright and everything looked like eye candy to him. This was just the first of many shopping trips.
Our little Tiger....ROAR!!!!!!!!

Of course I had to capture this moment, too! We probably looked pretty silly taking all these pictures, but we sure did have fun!

Monkey Man!

We made our way over to the Sossamon's today; which we really should do more often. Madden seems really comfortable with Aaron, Amy, Kaitlyn, and Camden. I say that, because he has been experiencing some anxiety lately. Camden was really sweet with Madden. Madden seems to really have eyes for kaitlyn. He didn't notice Landry a whole lot, but he did grab his hand a few times; which was sweet. Landry is so cute! I know that Madden, Landry, and Camden are going to grow-up to be best buds!

Sweet Kaitlyn & Madden

Here's Camden giving Madden his keys. Camden has always been so gentle with Madden. I think Madden already looks up to his big cousin.

Madden was being pouty pants here. Uncle Aaron was nice enough to carry him out to the car for me. Thanks for giving my arm a break, Aaron!

He was so tired! We had an eventful day, compared to usual. He fell fast asleep on the way home. He really loves his new big boy car seat. We had to upgrade, because chunky weighs 22 pounds now!

It was a great day!