First Playdate

Nicholas had his first playdate at his Aunt April's house. We got to meet baby Emma, Sarah's daughter who is 2 weeks younger than Nicholas. It was so much fun to talk with April and Sarah and see Doc and Maramarie be their silly selves. Doc had the idea to put on several bibs then play peek-a-boo.

A Visit from Cousin Callie

Nicholas got a visit from his cousin Callie (who was born the same day), Callie's mom (and my cousin)Paige and Callie's Grandpa (and my uncle) Frank. It was so good to see them. I love these pictures, babies bring out the best in everyone!

Tracking Deer while Constipated

While Tyler was deer hunting with Daddy, they left the deer stand early because Tyler had to go #2. As they were walking back to the truck, they jumped a deer which went toward the truck. Tyler wanted to stalk the deer, but when they got to the truck the deer was gone. Tyler said, "Daddy where did the deer go?", Greg answered, "When deer get scared, they go somewhere they feel safe." Tyler said, "Let's go back and check the corn feeder." Greg said, "Son, the deer will not be at the corn feeder and remember you still have to go #2." Tyler said, "Daddy, if I was a deer, I would feel safe at the corn feeder and I can always go #2, but how often do I get a chance to shoot a deer." When they returned to the corn feeder, there was no deer in sight and Tyler waited until that evening to go #2.

Monday, what a BIG day!

Nicholas went for his 2 month check up Monday. He weighs 10lbs 3oz. and is 22 1/5" long. He's in the 10th percentile which is good for him. The last few times he's been in the 3rd percentile, so he's making progress. Naturally, he didn't like the shots and gave me the saddest look ever, I started to cry which seemed to make him cry even more. So I told him I was going to be positive and began to sing, he calmed down almost immediately. He is such a blessing! We look forward to his baptism at St. Mary's this coming Sunday, I will post pictures.

Alana had her first ever guitar recital. She was amazing! She sang and played "How Great is our God" by Chris Tomlin. I've heard her practice, but hearing her on stage was a completely different experience. She is truly talented. We were blessed to have family come see her performance. Thank you to the Abide clan, Grandma and Papa Noll. Alana was so glad to have you there for support.

A Day at the Park

In July, Greg and I took Tyler, Mary Ella and Maramarie to the park. We had such a great time digging in the sand for treasures, exploring the cave and throwing rocks in the creek. Mary Ella found a HUGE worm, I think it would make her Daddy proud. Maramarie was so funny, she would throw the rocks and they would land BEHIND her! Gotta love those awesome kids!

Alana's 12th Birthday

Alana had a great 12th birthday in St. Vincent. We brought her best friend Elle with us for a weekend in the country. The girls spent a lot of time exploring the fields and woods at Mom's, laughed a lot, and enjoyed the unique experience of hanging out at Dad's store. Mom and Dad made it so much fun for the girls and I am so thankful. Mom made Alana's cake and we were fortunate to have my brothers and families there to celebrate as well. Thank you all for being there for Alana, St. Vincent and Morrilton are her favorite places on earth, I think it's because of the people she gets to see when she's there.
Dad, Alana and Elle looking at the ancient Far Side book

The girls posing by the Go Texas sign Dad made to help Elle feel welcome

The Cake-Mom wrote with blueberries

The girls on Ace and Katie. Alana is allergic to horses and was sneezing up a storm.

Alana Mowing for the First Time

Alana learned to mow the lawn this summer and did an excellent job. Greg showed her the ropes and she cut our neighbor's front lawn and part of our lawn as well, for a price of course.