SHfamily4Christ

Hummingbird Festival

2010-09-11T17:26:00.029-05:00

Please accept my apology for the many pictures included in this blog. We had such a great time at the Hummingbird Festival, I just want to share every moment.

Below is Josh, Mary Kaitlyn, Madelyn, and Gracie waiting patiently for a hummingbird to be caught and brought over to this station. This was the hummingbird banding station. They measured the bird, weighed the bird, and recorded whether it was male or female. If you look in the background of this picture, you see a man sitting at a table. If you look even closer, you can see many fishing lines leaving his table and leading to behind the building. There were cages back there with hummingbird feeders in them. When the birds entered to cage, the man would use the fishing line to close the cage doors. They would then capture the bird and put it in a mesh bag.

This is a hummingbird being taken out of a mesh bag.

This hummingbird was very vocal. The man wrapped a silk stocking around the bird so he couldn't fly off. It also helped when he laid the bird on the scale to be weighed. This bird weighed between what a penny and nickel weigh.

The bird is being measured. Each captured bird is banded and its measurements recorded.

Below is "Madelyn's" hummingbird. This is the bird that she got to hold before being released.

This is "Mary Kaitlyn's" bird. She also got to hold one that was released after being banded.

This is Stella. She is a barn owl that was rescued from being kept in a parrot cage.

Mary Kaitlyn, Gracie, and Madelyn wear peacock feathers in their hair.

The girls got to look through microscopes.

Mary Kaitlyn touching a lizard. She told the lady that it felt like rubber.

We got to go exploring with a biologist. The girls are in a pond in this picture. The pond was all dried up.

All the children were given nets to catch critters. We saw many bugs and spiders after turning over several logs.

Who Let the Dogs Out????

2010-09-07T17:56:00.003-05:00

This morning during breakfast Madelyn was sharing some details from her last P.E. class. She was telling Mary Kaitlyn and myself about a dance-off they had last week. She said that they got to do the song "Who Let the Dogs Out?" two times. Madelyn then went on to sing a little from that song. Several minutes after this conversation, Mary Kaitlyn so sweetly asked me "When do we find out who let the dogs out?" I did my best not to laugh. So, do you know, who let the dogs out?

Quotes about the 1st day of school

2010-08-05T15:50:00.002-05:00

I have several quotes that I need to share before I forget.

Madelyn said that 3rd grade is "totally awesome." (Because "that is what 3rd graders say" according to her)

Mary Kaitlyn has been talking about her new friends Reid and Sara. She said "I hope my new best friend, Reid, doesn't fall in love with me." (You want to place a bet with me on how soon I will have this girl in a ALL GIRLS school)

Madelyn likes sitting next to a couple of her old friends from her 2nd grade class. She has 7 friends in her class from last year along with some other friends from older classes.

Mary Kaitlyn had a friend tell her today that "she is better than an artist" while she was coloring an owl picture.

I am so thankful that our prayers were answered with the girls having a great 1st day.

1st Day of School

2010-08-05T09:44:00.012-05:00

Madelyn and Mary Kaitlyn started school today. I was able to walk to class with both girls. The girls are excited about their school year.

Mary Kaitlyn

Madelyn

Our beautiful girls

Mary Kaitlyn sitting at her desk. She is getting ready to draw a picture of herself on her 1st day of 1st grade.

Mrs. Julie, Mary Kaitlyn, and Ms. Nance

Madelyn sitting at her desk working on a word find puzzle.

Mrs. Payne and Madelyn

Celebrating July 4th

2010-07-27T06:17:00.013-05:00

Jimmy, the girls, and I went to Bellevue with friends to celebrate the 4th of July (a week early). It was a great set-up. The children could ride their scooters and play in the grassy area. The event offered some wonderful carnival food. At the end of the night, we saw some great fireworks. It was a wonderful time with family and friends!

Mary Kaitlyn riding her scooter.

Madelyn playing games

Josh and Mary Kaitlyn

Gracie and Madelyn

Madelyn and Gracie enjoy the firework show

Jimmy covers Mary Kaitlyn ears because she doesn't like the loud noises coming from the fireworks.

Madelyn at home with sparklers

Mary Kaitlyn cautiously holds her sparkler

Aladdin, Jr Production

2010-07-25T19:32:00.005-05:00

Madelyn and Mary Kaitlyn attended theater camp in June. They went daily for 4 hours and put on a BIG show on Friday night. The play they rehearsed for was Aladdin, Jr. Madelyn got casted as Genie and Mary Kaitlyn got the part of a Cave Dweller. They had a blast at camp and did a great job in the production!

Mary Kaitlyn as a Cave Dweller

Madelyn as Genie (Her arm is bandaged due to a procedure and a bout with staph infection)

Tennessee Vacation

2010-07-25T06:41:00.023-05:00

Buddy and Betty Jean with the grandkids.

Jimmy, the girls, and I went on vacation to Gatlinburg, TN. Jimmy's parents and his sister and her family went with us. Madelyn and Mary Kaitlyn had extra fun spending time with their cousins. We went to Dollywood, Splash Country, Ripley's Aquarium, and Dixie Stampede. Jimmy, Debbie, Lyle, Betty Jean, and I took in a show at Memories. We saw Kenny Chesney, Hank Williams, Jr, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Elvis. It was a great show. Jimmy, Betty Jean, Madelyn, and Haley went to The Miracle Show. The show took the audience through Jesus' life.

The hot tub at the cabin was a HUGE hit with Madelyn, Haley, Mary Kaitlyn, and Brandon.

Our cabin

One of the views from our cabin

Brandon and Mary Kaitlyn enjoy breakfast on the balcony.

Haley, Mary Kaitlyn, Brandon, and Madelyn are getting ready to start their trip through the Ripley's Aquarium in Gatlinburg.

Madelyn and Mary Kaitlyn pose in front of one of the fish tanks.

Madelyn, Haley, Brandon, and Mary Kaitlyn in front of the fish tank where we saw a show.

Haley, Madelyn, Brandon, and Mary Kaitlyn with the "scuba man" after the show.

Madelyn and Mary Kaitlyn in front of the penguin exhibit

Mary Kaitlyn and Brandon watch the penguins through the glass floor.

Mary Kaitlyn, Madelyn, Haley, and Brandon outside the Dixie Stampede. They enjoyed looking at the horses used in the show.

Buddy, Mary Kaitlyn, Haley, and Madelyn before the Dixie Stampede show

Haley, Mary Kaitlyn, Brandon,and Madelyn pose by a creek.

Madelyn works shifting her dirt looking for gems at The Mine.

Mary Kaitlyn works hard looking for precious stones at The Mine.

Haley, Mary Kaitlyn, Brandon, and Madelyn enjoying sticking their feet into this creek.

The girls outside one of my favorite eating spots in Gatlinburg

We enjoyed our adventure of trying to find our way through this maze of mirrors.

Outside of Ripley's Believe or Not Museum

Swim Lessons

2010-07-22T19:56:00.006-05:00

Below are a few pictures of Madelyn and Mary Kaitlyn's swim lessons.

Dance Recital

2010-07-22T19:43:00.009-05:00

Below are some photos from Madelyn and Mary Kaitlyn's dance recital.

Spring Broadway Bound Show

2010-07-22T19:22:00.005-05:00

Madelyn and Mary Kaitlyn got to share the stage for the spring Broadway Bound Production.

They sang Eighties music. (which Jimmy loved!) I had fun giving the girls "big hair" hairstyles.

Both girls did a great job on stage.

Madelyn and Mary Kaitlyn on stage after the show.

Madelyn, Haley, Mary Kaitlyn, and Brandon after the show.

Madelyn, Gracie, and Mary Kaitlyn

Our family photo after the show.

AWANA Award Night

2010-05-20T20:46:00.004-05:00

We had our AWANA Awards Night this week. Madelyn and Mary Kaitlyn have done a great job memorizing their Bible verses. We are so proud of them!

Madelyn and Mary Kaitlyn before Awards Night.

Madelyn and her leader, Mrs. Leigh

Mary Kaitlyn and her leader, Mrs. Jamie

2nd Grade Field Day

2010-05-20T20:36:00.007-05:00

Below are some pictures from Madelyn's 2nd grade Field Day.

Madelyn's Class Awards

2010-05-20T20:21:00.006-05:00

Madelyn had her 2nd grade class Award Day this week. Madelyn has had such a great year. She truly loves school. I hope she always enjoys it.

Madelyn showing off her time capsule that she made the first week of 2nd grade.

Madelyn and her class

Madelyn receiving her award for the highest average in reading.

Bring a friend to dance

2010-05-20T05:36:00.005-05:00

This week at dance was themed "bring a friend and wear your pajamas" day.

All the girls love this day at dance.

Ella Grace and Mary Kaitlyn
Abbey and Madelyn

Mary Kaitlyn's luau

2010-05-14T21:23:00.012-05:00

Today Mary Kaitlyn had her kindergarten Luau. We were so glad that it didn't rain like originally forecast. Jimmy and I were unable to stay for the whole event, but below are some of the pictures that I was able to take. I can't believe that her 1st year of school is coming to an end. It has flown by too fast.

Here is a picture of the cake for the class. Mary Kaitlyn is on the far right on the first row.

One of the activities the children had to do was to was to race each other to a pile of shoes and find their own. Mary Kaitlyn's team won this event.

Mary Kaitlyn hula-hooping.

Mary Kaitlyn on the playground.

Mary Kaitlyn loved the sand pile.

Mary Kaitlyn and her friend burying their feet in the sand.

Mary Kaitlyn and her friends had to go all around the school on a treasure hunt. They finally found the treasure chest back in their room after figuring out all the clues.

Beautiful flowers

2010-04-13T21:07:00.015-05:00

Madelyn, Mary Kaitlyn, and I visited a local garden that we love this past weekend. I know I posted TOO many pictures, but I could not resist. The flowers were just too beautiful!

Enjoy.

Fun with friends

2010-04-13T20:55:00.007-05:00

The girls and I are so thankful that we were able to get together with Sara, Emma, and Ty for some fun before they moved. Madelyn and Mary Kaitlyn had such a great time with Emma and Ty at Chuck E Cheese.

Mary Kaitlyn's 6th birthday

2010-04-13T20:47:00.006-05:00

Mary Kaitlyn had a great birthday celebration at JUMP with family and friends!

Sledding

2010-02-08T20:15:00.002-06:00

Below are some videos of the girls sledding down our hill. Sorry you have to tilt your head to enjoy. One of these days I will remember not to turn my camera when I am videoing.

Snowing

2010-02-08T19:59:00.002-06:00

This 1st video was shot outside our house about 6:00 this morning. Sorry you have to turn you head to enjoy.

The 2nd video was made about 7:15.

Snow Surprise

2010-02-08T10:59:00.029-06:00

We woke up this morning to a winter wonderland. What a surprise!!!

Next 2 pictures are the girls making snow angels.

Mary Kaitlyn shoveling the snow.

Mary Kaitlyn with her snowman.

Madelyn with her snowman.

Snowman family.

Next pictures are pictures of the girls sledding.

The road in front of our house

Mary Kaitlyn and her dinosaur egg

2010-02-08T10:24:00.005-06:00

Mary Kaitlyn brought home a dinosaur egg from school this weekend. She had to crack the egg, get the dinosaur out, and write a report about her dinosaur.

Broadway Bound 2010

2010-02-08T10:00:00.009-06:00

Madelyn recently got to perform in the winter show for Broadway Bound.

She loves this group!

Mary Kaitlyn and Madelyn after the show.

Madelyn starting off the show with her solo in Broadway Baby.

Madelyn and Mrs. Stacy

Madelyn and Mrs. Susan

Madelyn, Mrs. Kris, and Mary Kaitlyn

Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T21:18:00.009-06:00

Below are some pictures from our family Thanksgiving. We went down to Columbus to celebrate the holiday at Greg's house. The girls had a great time playing with their cousins.

Madelyn celebrates her 8th birthday

2009-11-24T13:31:00.006-06:00

Madelyn had a blast celebrating her 8th birthday with family and friends!

Madelyn, Haley, and Gracie are ready for the ride to The Children's Museum.

Madelyn is ready to blow out her candles.

Make a wish!

Madelyn and her friends

Madelyn opening more presents at home from family.

Zoo pictures

2009-10-25T18:44:00.009-05:00

Jimmy, Madelyn, Mary Kaitlyn, and I went to the zoo this weekend to see the new exhibit. It is amazing! The pictures that I have seen of this exhibit do not do it justice.

Mary Kaitlyn and Madelyn in front of the cabin at the Teton Trek.

Madelyn and Mary Kaitlyn get an up close look at the wolves.

The Grizzly Bears

The Polar Bear was right up to the glass.

One of the panda bears was trying to take a nap.

We got a special treat that afternoon. Debbie and Haley had come up our way to do some shopping. We had a nice visit.

Haley, Madelyn, and Mary Kaitlyn

Corn Maze

2009-10-18T20:29:00.017-05:00

The girls and I got to go to a corn maze. Boy was it fun. It took us 50 minutes to get through the maze. We took several wrong turns and ended up at dead ends. We got to shoot corn with a corn cannon. The girls also got to jump on a Jumping Pillow. We had never seen one of these before. They played on it for an hour. We ended our adventure with some good kettle corn.

Girls stop and pose for a picture

Start of the maze. At first the girls were worried about what would happen if we got lost. I eased their minds by telling them that I would call someone on my cell phone.

We finally made it to the half-way point. At this point, you can exit the maze. We decided to go on and find the end.

The girls running to the exit of the maze

Mary Kaitlyn checks out an ear of corn.

Mary Kaitlyn fires the corn cannon,

Madelyn tries hard to hit one of the signs that are 100 yards away so she could win a prize.

None of us were able to do this, but we came close.

The Jumping Pillow was lots of fun.

Monarch Butterflies

2009-10-18T20:25:00.004-05:00

Below are a few pictures of the girls releasing some monarch butterflies after they came out of their cocoons in our butterfly houses.

Farm Breakfast

2009-10-18T20:20:00.005-05:00

Mary Kaitlyn's class recently had a Farm Breakfast., so we dressed the part.

Mary Kaitlyn's field trip

2009-10-18T20:11:00.007-05:00

Mary Kaitlyn went on her very first fieldtrip earlier this month. They went to Kidz Country. She had a blast with her friends petting animals, feeding animals, and riding on a hayride.

Mary Kaitlyn getting off the bus. This was her first time to ever ride a school bus, and she was very excited.

Feeding a rabbit

Feeding a goat

Riding a pony

Carrying her pumpkin out of the field after she made her selection

Madelyn's Field trip

2009-10-18T19:53:00.008-05:00

Madelyn recently had the opportunity to learn about Lewis and Clark by going to a travel expedition of their adventures. She learned about the weapons of that era and the medicine (or lack there of if you ask me!). She was able to see a replica of their boat that they used to go up the Missouri river. The original was sold and later destroyed. They had question and answer time at all the stations. While we were at the boat station, Madelyn asked where they took their baths. She was told in the Missouri River. I could see by the look on her face that she did not approve of that.

Replica of Lewis and Clark boat

Madelyn checking out the boat

A replica cannon of that era as it was being fired. VERY LOUD!

Madelyn watching as a blacksmith showed the children how the iron was made hot then molded into objects. They saw a nail and hanger/hook being made.

Our Cats--Then and Now

2009-09-03T09:07:00.004-05:00

Casey and CJ have come a long way. Below I have a picture of their first "meet and greet." As you can see, it did not go too well. It took a while, but they are now the best of friends. They still "play fight" some. The 2nd picture show the cats taking a nap together, which they love to do every afternoon.

Some summer fun pictures

2009-08-11T06:07:00.019-05:00

Here are some pictures from this summer.

We had a great summer, but it flew by!

Lyle, Debbie, Haley, and Brandon came to visit this summer over July 4th weekend. What fun! We had a great time at the sprinkler park.

Mary Kaitlyn

Haley, Mary Kaitlyn, and Madelyn waiting for the water to splash on them.

Haley and Madelyn

Haley, Madelyn, and Mary Kaitlyn

Brandon shooting the water gun at Haley and Mary Kaitlyn.

Mary Kaitlyn and Haley defending themselves against Brandon.

Madelyn helping Mary Kaitlyn as they prepare for the bucket of water to pour out on them.

And they get wet.

Brandon enjoys his snack. According to him, I am pretty smart because I brought snacks.

Sara and I took Madelyn, Mary Kaitlyn, Emma, and Ty to see the Disney Christmas Carol train.

Emma, Ty, Madelyn, and Mary Kaitlyn with the Christmas carolers.

Madelyn and Mary Kaitlyn holding their train ticket.

After the Disney Christmas train adventure and dinner, we went roller skating.

Mary Kaitlyn

Emma and Madelyn

Before school started back, the girls and I went to the Children's Museum. They have a new exhibit with a green wall and children can select a scene and be in the news.

Madelyn giving the traffic report.

Mary Kaitlyn giving the weather report.

Mary Kaitlyn trying to get a paper airplane to fly.

Madelyn dancing.

School Starts

2009-08-11T05:50:00.014-05:00

School started Monday with a great start! Both girls love their teachers and their classrooms. When asked by someone about her day, Mary Kaitlyn would 1st tell you that she is sitting by 2 boys. She doesn't tell you that there is a girl is at her table too. Every table has 2 boys and 2 girls, but this seems to be of importance to her. Below are some pictures from their 1st morning.

Mary Kaitlyn and Madelyn

Madelyn is striking a pose.

Madelyn at her desk.

Mary Kaitlyn in front of her cubbie.

Mary Kaitlyn shows off her ID necklace that she found at her spot at her table.

I can't believe how big our girls are getting. Slow down!!!

Geyser Falls

2009-08-01T15:57:00.008-05:00

Jimmy, Madelyn, Mary Kaitlyn and I were able to make an overnight trip down to Philadelphia, MS to visit Geyser Falls water park. We were worried that the rain was going to ruin our fun, but it stayed away. We had a blast. It was so much fun watching the girls! Mary Kaitlyn loved the Creaky Leaky Water Factory and the Lazy River. Madelyn loved all the slides. The girls are already talking about when we get to go back.

Creaky Leaky Water Factory. As you climb your way up into this "factory," water is coming at you in all directions. Sometimes other children are shooting water guns at you. The big bucket at the top actually fills with water and dumps out when you least expect it to. Once the girls were walking from underneath the factory when the buckets dumped all its water out. It actually knocked Madelyn down. They were so caught off guard.

This is a picture of our cabana. The cabana sits out over the pool area. The girls and I swam in the water around it while we waited on our food to be delivered.

Back Splash slide was one of Madelyn's favorite slides. The slide had a big drop at the end before you were slung up a ramp.

Mary Kaitlyn on the Lazy River.

Madelyn floating down the Lazy River.

After Mary Kaitlyn not going down a single slide the whole morning, she loved them after lunch. She was even going down on her belly head first. She LOVED it.

Madelyn and Mary Kaitlyn in front of Creaky Leaky Water Factory.

Back from the beach

2009-06-23T20:14:00.011-05:00

We had a great time at the beach on our family vacation. We were blessed with great weather, wonderful family fun, and some good food. It was tough coming back to the real world. We are slowly getting back into our routines.

We were able to meet David and Jamie for lunch while we were on our trip. It was wonderful getting to meet Hayden. He is just precious!

Madelyn loved playing in the ocean and on the beach.

Mary Kaitlyn is working hard playing at the beach.

Our group shot taken on the boat of our dolphin cruise.

This is a hermit crab that we caught and kept with us in our condo for a day. I am sure that the crab was happy to get back to the ocean after being picked-up too many times.

Mary Kaitlyn washing her tiger, Abby, at Build-A-Bear.

Madelyn flying high on a zip line. She showed no fear at all. You could hear her yelling "in coming" as she was getting ready to land after each trip.

Mary Kaitlyn and Madelyn posing on the beach.

Videos from Madelyn's class picnic

2009-05-07T20:30:00.006-05:00

Here are some videos from Madelyn's class picnic. Sorry they are turned wrong, but I had my camera turned vertical and I cannot figure out how to turn them on the computer.

Madelyn's class picnic

2009-05-02T21:18:00.011-05:00

Today was Madelyn's class picnic. We were suppose to fish, play outside, and eat. But it rained. Boy, has it rained! So everything was held inside. Still LOTS of fun! The girls were also asked to come early so that they could participate in a tea. The girls got all dressed-up and had photos taken. We have been blessed this school year with great teachers. It is so nice to be able to get together with them and other parents outside the classroom.

Madelyn and Mary Kaitlyn after the tea party. Madelyn is wearing Lovie's crown. Lovie is Madelyn's teacher's mom.

Mary Kaitlyn and Madelyn with friends.

Ally, Madelyn, Mrs. Julie, and Katie Beth

Hannah, Connor, Katie Beth, and Mary Kaitlyn

Mia pushing Emma, Gracie, Madelyn, and Ally

Mrs. Nance and Madelyn dancing

Class photo

Madelyn, Mrs. Nance, Mary Kaitlyn, and Leisha

Mary Kaitlyn, Mrs. Julie, Madelyn, and Leisha

High School Muscial 2

2009-04-18T18:52:00.011-05:00

Madelyn, Mary Kaitlyn, and I got to go to a local theater production of High School Musical 2. Our friend, Emma, went with us. It was a wonderful production. The girls loved it. They even got to dance in the aisles with some of the cast during the last number in the show.

Mary Kaitlyn, Emma, and Madelyn holding their tickets.

"How many more minutes?" They could not wait until the show started!

The girls with "Sharpay"

The girls with "Gabriella"

The girls with "Taylor"

The girls with "Ryan"

The girls with "Chad"

The girls with "Troy"

Playing the Kalimba

2009-04-18T18:43:00.007-05:00

Madelyn and Mary Kaitlyn had the opportunity to learn about the African instrument called a Kalimba this past week at a program at the library. After a demonstration and singing, the girls got to tryout the Kalimba themselves. They enjoyed playing the "thumb piano."

Easter Morning

2009-04-12T14:42:00.008-05:00

Easter morning pictures.

Easter Egg Hunt with old friends

2009-04-12T14:22:00.012-05:00

The girls and I had the opportunity to go to an Easter Egg Hunt with some of my old friends. It was such a blessing to see these dear old friends. I am sorry that we have not been in better contact over the years. But talking with these ladies was as if only a few days had pasted and not years. I enjoyed getting to see my girls play with their children. We had a great afternoon and got some great pictures. What wonderful memories!!!

Kimberly, myself, and Camille (none of us have aged a bit!)

My friends and our children.

Our children.

All the children at the egg hunt.

Madelyn and Mary Kaitlyn had fun playing with their new friends.

Easter Egg Hunt #2

2009-04-12T13:59:00.012-05:00

Madelyn and Mary Kaitlyn had a great time at our local town Easter Egg Hunt. There were 50,000 eggs hidden, and the hunt was over in a matter of seconds.

Pictures from Madelyn's friend's b-day party

2009-04-12T13:38:00.005-05:00

Madelyn had a blast at a friend's birthday party. The children got to put on harnesses, jump in a big pit of foam, jump on trampolines while attached to bungee cords, and fly on a zip-line. I was just jealous that I didn't get to do it!

Madelyn's field trip to the zoo

2009-04-11T07:33:00.008-05:00

This past Thursday was Madelyn's school field trip to the zoo. The weather was perfect and we had a great time.

Madelyn and Mary Kaitlyn

Madelyn and her friend, Emma.

The girls and some friends looking at an animal exhibit.

Emma, Mary Kaitlyn, Brooke (from Emma's class), and Madelyn

Mary Kaitlyn loves the farm exhibit. She tried to pet every animal.

Mary Kaitlyn petting a goat.

Going Downtown

2009-04-11T07:19:00.008-05:00

We took the girls downtown last weekend to eat and see the ducks. We also ended up taking a carriage ride. We had a blast!

Mary Kaitlyn and Madelyn on top of a hotel.

Madelyn in front of the big "doll house" on top of the hotel.

Mary Kaitlyn and Madelyn check-out the ducks in their new house.

The driver of our carriage ride had a dog. Mary Kaitlyn of course loved him. This is her with Tootie.

Madelyn and Mary Kaitlyn with Fred, the horse.

The girls and our carriage.

Sunday School Class Easter Egg Hunt

2009-04-10T05:47:00.016-05:00

We had our annual Sunday School class Easter Egg Hunt. There were games, face painting, pictures with the Easter Bunny, food, and of coarse egg hunting. Madelyn and Mary Kaitlyn had a blast!

Mary Kaitlyn playing the spoon/egg carry game. Take note how she is holding the egg on the spoon (so she won't drop it) as she races back to the finish line.

Madelyn enjoys the bunny hop race. At one point, she and a friend got in the same sack. After just a few hops, they were both on the ground.

Mary Kaitlyn also tries the bunny hop. But instead of hopping, she "walked" in her sack.

The girls with the Easter Bunny.

Madelyn gets her face painted.

Mary Kaitlyn, Madelyn, and Emma

Mary Kaitlyn and Ty

Madelyn takes a quick break from egg hunting.

Mary Kaitlyn counts her eggs as she hunts. (There was a limit)

The girls after the egg hunt.

Mary Kaitlyn and Ty seem to be having a discussion about the hot dogs.

Annual Recruitment Party

2009-04-09T16:00:00.005-05:00

The girls and I got to go to Jimmy's work annual recruitment party at the zoo. This has been an event that the girls have enjoyed over the past few years. They like that they get to ride the tram and be at the zoo at night. Madelyn and Mary Kaitlyn pet a chinchilla.

Mary Kaitlyn and Madelyn

Madelyn and Mary Kaitlyn make a new friend. Caroline is the daughter of one of Jimmy's co-workers. The girls loved hanging out with her.

Madelyn, Caroline, and Mary Kaitlyn

Mary Kaitlyn's birthday party

2009-03-24T21:41:00.018-05:00

We had a wonderful weekend with family and friends celebrating Mary Kaitlyn's 5th birthday. We had our family party 1st at home then headed off to her party with her friends. She had a great day.

Our family (minus Brandon who was sick and Lyle who sat upstairs with him).

Mary Kaitlyn got a bed for her American girl. She has played and played with it.

Mary Kaitlyn, Jimmy, Leisha, and Madelyn

Madelyn, Betty Jean, Mary Kaitlyn, and Buddy

Brandon, Lyle, Haley, and Debbie

Joel, Madelyn, Mama Ann, Mama, Mary Kaitlyn, and Daddy

Mary Kaitlyn at her party

Madelyn

Old friends: Dan, Tif, Leisha, and Jimmy

Betty Jean, Mama, Mama Ann, and Joel

Mary Kaitlyn sits on the throne as she prepares to open her presents.

Lyle, Debbie, Haley, and Brandon got to stay with us Saturday night too. The children stayed up til midnight. They played hard all Sunday afternoon. Mary Kaitlyn went to bed around 5:45 that afternoon and did not wake-up until I got her up at 6:30 the next morning. The busy weekend wore her out!

Mary Kaitlyn's birthday

2009-03-24T21:28:00.006-05:00

Mary Kaitlyn spent her birthday with some friends. Her friend, Dorian, had his birthday the day before her birthday. We went over to his house to celebrate. They both had their own cupcake with candle to celebrate. It was a great day!

Mary Kaitlyn, Ty, "Miss" Yolanda, and Dorian

Happy Birthday to you.

Ty and Mary Kaitlyn

Mary Kaitlyn opens her gifts.

It was also "Miss" Andrea's birthday. Mary Kaitlyn was brought into the class where the bigger kids are. (aka Madelyn's class which is 1st through 5th grades) The whole group sang "Happy Birthday" to her. As you can see, she was a little timid.

Cute video

2009-03-24T21:18:00.003-05:00

Cute video of Mary Kaitlyn sliding down our stairs. She was wearing her pajamas with the satin pants. This stunt brought many laughs. Enjoy.

Mary Kaitlyn dances in the ballet

2009-03-08T21:15:00.012-05:00

Mary Kaitlyn performed in a ballet production this weekend. There were 3 shows over a 2 day period. She had so much fun. She really enjoyed making friends with the "big" girls. She has been talking about them and telling me their names. She did a great job on stage! She made a beautiful rose!

Mary Kaitlyn poses with her dance teacher, Jill.

Mary Kaitlyn poses with some of her friends.

Mary Kaitlyn made lots of new friends.

Madelyn helps entertain the "roses" while they had some downtime.

The Roses

Madelyn supported her little sister by attending all 3 shows.

Mary Kaitlyn is so tired after the last show that she takes a rest wherever and whenever she could.

Grandparents' Day at Dance

2009-03-03T19:57:00.011-06:00

Today was Grandparents' Day at dance. Jimmy's parents and my mom came into town to attend this special day with the girls. Mary Kaitlyn had her dance practice this morning. After a few hours rest, they joined Madelyn at her dance practice. This year they all got to dance on stage. By the way (grandparents), I got it on VIDEO!!! Pay close attention to the last post on this blog.

Mama Jo, Mary Kaitlyn, Nana, Madelyn, and Papa after Madelyn's dance practice.
Mary Kaitlyn shows-off her high kicks.

Mama Jo, Mary Kaitlyn, Nana, and Papa

Mary Kaitlyn is ready to dance.

Madelyn shows the grandparents some tap combinations.

Mama Jo, Madelyn, Nana, and Papa

Madelyn changing shoes.

Mary Kaitlyn, Lauren, Emma, and Madelyn

Please click on the play button and prepare to be entertained!

More snow pictures

2009-03-01T15:18:00.009-06:00

We woke-up this morning to more snow.

Madelyn and Mary Kaitlyn are ready for some snow fun!
You can't catch me!

Madelyn worked on some art work in the snow.

Mary Kaitlyn used her shovel to dig in the snow.

We measured last night around dark, and we measured almost 1 inch. This morning it measured 3 and 1/2 inches. (And this was after the girls had cleared off the table.) We think we got around 4 and 1/2 inches total.

SNOW!!!

2009-02-28T21:27:00.011-06:00

We had a great time playing in the snow today. We started getting dressed to head outside as soon as we saw the first snowflakes. We ended up playing outside for several hours. Mary Kaitlyn walked about every inch of our backyard. I think she liked making footprints in the snow(aka mud). Madelyn enjoyed creating pictures in the snow. Of coarse, making snowballs was the biggest hit of the day. Today's snow was great for that. We sat out four bowls to catch snow to make snow ice-cream. It was wonderful as our dessert tonight! We are going to save the rest of our snow for making more later.

Love to all!

Busy Valentine's Weekend

2009-02-16T20:30:00.014-06:00

We had a fun and busy weekend this past Valentine's weekend. On Saturday, we had a Valentine's party. We had a great time with friends making crafts, playing games, and eating snacks. After the party, Mary Kaitlyn had a special dance rehearsal for a part that she has in an upcoming ballet show. We then had a surprise visit with Jimmy's sister and her family. They were traveling through town on their way back home and stopped to meet us for dinner. They were even able to come by the house for a short time to visit and let our children play together. We miss seeing them more. On Sunday, the girls went to a local nursing home to dance and pass out Valentines. This was sponsored through their dance organization.

Mary Kaitlyn and Madelyn at the Valentine Party
Mary Kaitlyn showing off one of her crafts.

Madelyn making another Valentine.

Mary Kaitlyn and Madelyn

Mary Kaitlyn and Brandon at dinner. They were SO good and Mary Kaitlyn was so excited to see that she would get to sit by him.

Madelyn and Haley are good friends and good cousins!

Mary Kaitlyn shows off her dance moves for the residents.

Madelyn never misses a beat.

Mary Kaitlyn and Madelyn at the nursing home.

Madelyn and Mary Kaitlyn passing out their Valentines to the residents.

A few more pictures from the zoo

2009-02-08T07:26:00.004-06:00

Mary Kaitlyn was looking at the pictures on our blog this morning after she woke up. She informed me that I didn't post any pictures of the pandas. So...here they are.

Madelyn and Mary Kaitlyn
Mary Kaitlyn

One panda bear was in the inside den.

And the other panda bear was in the outside play area.

A great day to be at the zoo!

2009-02-07T18:17:00.011-06:00

We took advantage of the wonderful weather today, and we all went to the zoo. This is definitely one of the girls favorite places to go. I think lots of other people had the same idea by the look of all the cars in the parking lot when we arrived.Madelyn pulling Mary Kaitlyn into the zoo.

Mary Kaitlyn uses her binoculars (that she insisted on bringing) to look at some of the big cats.

Madelyn is in charge of reading the map and telling us where to go next.

Madelyn enjoys an ice-cream treat.

Mary Kaitlyn enjoying her snack.

As you can see by the next few photos, the polar bears were very active and playful today.

Mary Kaitlyn pulling Madelyn out of the zoo.

No school due to snow

2009-01-28T08:57:00.008-06:00

We woke up this morning to a light dusting of snow and ice. But it was enough to cancel school today. It was not that much, but we did have fun playing outside for a while. The girls packed a ziplock bag full of snow to save. For what, I do not know???

Madelyn and Mary Kaitlyn with their bag of snow.

Mary Kaitlyn running away from Madelyn because Madelyn has a snowball.

This picture was taken on the table out back of the house.

Madelyn and her "Buddies" perform on stage

2009-01-24T15:31:00.007-06:00

Madelyn and her "Buddies" theater group performed their BIG show. The whole show centered around American Bandstand and the 70's. Madelyn's group sang the songs "Happy Together", "YMCA", "Shake Your Groove Thing"," Celebration", and "American Bandstand". They also sang "We Are Family". Madelyn had a little solo in this song. All the children had little solos in one of the songs. They all did GREAT! There was also a special appearances by The Brady Bunch, Sonny and Cher, and Donny Osmond. Madelyn looks forward to doing this again next year. Mary Kaitlyn will have to wait until she is 6 to join this group, but she is already ready.

Madelyn after a dress rehearsal.
Madelyn showing off her glasses from the "Happy Together" song and her sailor hat from "YMCA."

Madelyn's sign on her chair backstage. It helped remind her where her place on stage was for each number.

Madelyn on stage after the show.

Mary Kaitlyn and Madelyn

Madelyn and her friend, Emma

Madelyn singing her solo during a stage rehearsal.

Boy are we LOST!

2009-01-17T11:48:00.008-06:00

We hosted our 2nd Annual LOST party. There are only a few days left until LOST starts season 5. We all got together and watch the final 2 episodes from last season. We started the night off with dinner. This was follow by a test that covered last season. Brad missed the least questions. Our children had a great night playing together. There was even a talent show to end the evening. It was a great night with great friends and fellowship. Now if we could only figure out what will happen next on LOST!!!

Parker, Ty, Madelyn, Emma, Mary Kaitlyn, and Caroline
Frank and Jamie decided that 2 heads are better than one when it comes to test taking.

Courtney is really concentrating!

Brad and Amanda feel confident in their LOST knowledge.

Jeff, Sara, and Jimmy. "Who is Naomi, Ray, or Charlotte?"

Christmas in January

2009-01-11T15:11:00.008-06:00

We celebrated Christmas with my family in January this year. My dad had surgery in December and had some complications. He is doing much better now. Below are some photos from our gathering.

Mary Kaitlyn, Mama Ann, and Madelyn
Joel, Mama Jo, Mary Kaitlyn, Papa Joe, Mama Ann, Madelyn, Jimmy and Leisha

Madelyn, Mary Kaitlyn and Mary Kaitlyn new lifelike cat.

Madelyn, Mary Kaitlyn and I got to visit with some old friends.

Mary Kaitlyn, Mama Ann, Madelyn, Mama Jo, and Papa Joe

Kidzpraise at Church

2009-01-11T15:06:00.008-06:00

Madelyn and her friends play the "over/under" game at church with toilet paper. After MANY unsuccessful tries, Madelyn's team finally won. The toilet paper kept tearing and they would have to start all over.

New Year's Eve 2008

2009-01-01T18:53:00.006-06:00

Jimmy and I enjoyed an evening out with good friends and good food for New Years' Eve. We went to The Melting Pot Restaurant with Jeff and Sara. While we were out, Madelyn, Mary Kaitlyn, Emma, and Ty stayed at our house with some sitters. Madelyn's goal for the night was to stay up all night. She made it until about 2:15. Mary Kaitlyn stayed up until 11:30. Madelyn's other request for her "all night" New Year's Eve was to have a "midnight snack." She chose chips. She and I camped out in the den and watched movies.

Madelyn and Emma share some "girl talk" in Madelyn's room.

Madelyn and Emma playing with My Little Ponies

Ty and Mary Kaitlyn playing Perfection

Christmas 2008 with family

2009-01-01T13:10:00.013-06:00

Below are some snapshots of our yearly Christmas get-together. The girls had a great time visiting with their cousins. Everyone got along SO well! Each night was one big slumber party in the den.

Mary Kaitlyn, Pappa, Nana, and Madelyn

Mary Kaitlyn, Hunter, and Brandon

The Whole Family

The girls: Haley, Madelyn, Sarah Katherine, and Mary Kaitlyn

Doctor Mary Kaitlyn and Army Sergeant Brandon

The Enchanted Forest

2009-01-01T00:17:00.008-06:00

The girls love going to The Enchanted Forest each year. This year their favorite trees were the Disney Princess tree, Hannah Montana tree, and Under the Sea tree. Of coarse, they wanted their picture taken in front of almost every tree. Each picture with its own pose to go with the tree. This trip to The Enchanted Forest has become an annual event for us. Below are a few of our snapshots.

Christmas 2008

2008-12-31T23:56:00.008-06:00

Fred (our Elf) and the last place we saw him in 2008.

Madelyn and Mary Kaitlyn mix-up reindeer food on Christmas Eve day. We help them spread it out onto our front lawn for the reindeer. The multi-color sparkles mixed into the food definitely helped the reindeer and Santa find our house.

Madelyn and Mary Kaitlyn on Christmas Eve wearing their matching Christmas pjs.

The girls as they enter the den to see what Santa left them.

Mary Kaitlyn checks out her Santa stuff. She got a bicycle, American girl, and camera.

Madelyn and her Santa stuff. She got a "two wheeler" bicycle, Easy Bake oven, and Moon Sand.

The girls playing with Mary Kaitlyn's new Barbie House (and its MANY pieces).