BLAKE, JAMIE, SAMANTHA & ALAYNA

Buddies

2012-01-31T14:37:00.000-08:00

Samantha is obsessed with playdates. I don't know how else to explain it. That girl can go All. Day. Long. Luckily, we have great next door neighbors and a slew of friends to stop by and play most any day.

What could be more fun than making bum prints with sidewalk chalk?

Even Alayna approved of the activity.

Coloring Fool

2012-01-31T14:24:00.000-08:00

Today while cleaning out the car & garage and tinkering around the yard...I lost track of Alayna. I stopped and listened for her little noises, and sure enough I could hear them...

She had climbed into the van and made her self comfortable.

She just loves to color.

I have a feeling she will be the one that ends up coloring all over the walls...at least I am mentally prepared for that catastrophe.

Melissa Turns the BIG 30!!

2012-01-29T17:48:00.000-08:00

The year of Melissa! I feel big things happening for her this year.

Melissa requested Mom's spaghetti (plus all the leftovers) and a Hershey's Perfectly Chocolate Cake.No party is complete without a game of Blokus.Ramon was initiated into the competition."It's my party, and I'll sleep if I want to..."

We're Goin' to the Zoo, Zoo, Zoo...

2012-01-27T16:26:00.000-08:00

We LOVE when Blake gets his day off for the month. It was beautiful outside, so we forked over a ridiculous amount of money to visit the Houston Zoo.

As you can guess, Alayna wanted to explore every nook and cranny of the zoo...on foot and uninhibited.

She really, really tried hard to catch this little bird.

Carousels...one can never get too old.

It's just so magical!
Well...maybe not for everyone.I can't believe how real this giraffe looks!

Sammie is making the appropriate elephant noises and action.
Alayna got quite a fright when this albino alligator decided to move...right towards her!
I had fun acting like I knew what I was doing with one of my camera lenses...gettin' up close and personal!
A few more snaps of our favorite animals of the day.

Yay for the New Camera!

2012-01-24T17:18:00.001-08:00

I am LOVING my new camera that Santa brought me for Christmas. The fact that I know NOTHING about how to actually use it, and it still takes great pictures...makes it worth every penny!

15 Months Old

2012-01-14T16:59:00.000-08:00

Weight: 21 lbs - 7th percentile
Height: 32 1/2" - 86th percentile
Head: 17 1/2" - 1st percentile Alayna is growing up so fast! She went from being a horrendous newborn, a rolly-polly baby, to a non-stop movin-babblin' toddler!

DRIVING to Tucson, Arizona

2012-01-12T10:09:00.000-08:00

We officially went on our first road trip in the minivan. IT WAS GREAT! We took 2 eight hour driving days to get there. Candy, movies, Harry Potter book 7 and napping. Alayna was content as can be. Samantha played musical chairs and watched endless movies.

We joined up with Papa Holiday & Grandma Janice, Nate-Brit-Noah, and got to see Steve & Jillian & Addi's new house. Sam was in cousin-heaven. She just can't get enough of Drew, Summer and Dawna...and Addi, too!

I took Summer and Dawna running a few times, we ate tons of food, played games and went to a few movies. We also road a tram up the canyon and got to see the Tucson desert and cacti.

Lots of trivia games and daily ping-pong tournaments.
We went to Eeegee's a few times for slushes.Found out Alayna is just like me...she likes her french fries dipped in a Frosty. Seriously, who doesn't?!We witnessed an accident in the middle of nowhere. I was driving and literally watched an SUV swerve off the road, over-correct to get back on, and flip! It rolled and flipped about 6 times...we couldn't believe our eyes. It was on the other side of the highway. So, we pulled over and Blake was the first on the scene. Miraculously, no one was hurt too badly. A mom, 3 kids and a dog. It got Sam asking many questions and reminding us to drive slowly.

Family Pictures by Taryn

2012-01-12T09:38:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to Me!

2012-01-04T09:17:00.000-08:00

Sunday dinner with my family.

Yes, I know there are a lot of candles!
Sweet Sammie, always reminding me that I am 3-3. Two 3's!

Alayna has found her sweet tooth.

We got a new game for Christmas called Blokus. It is super fun, but causing many family disputes. Basically, everyone is out to 'get mom!'

Christmas Eve & Day

2011-12-25T08:44:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas!

A few random moments...

2011-12-23T17:18:00.000-08:00

Carrots & Dip and a show...

Nativity FHE

I finally figured out how to get Alayna to smile for a picture. I am holding up a Santa toy that sings and dances. Yay for smiles!

One of many nightly advent calendars. Alayna is WAY into candy.

Blake's work party = date night!

Just about every morning I find the toilet bowl cleaner thingy out around the house...I knew Alayna was the culprit, but couldn't figure out why. Every night I vacuum the downstairs and tonight Alayna was right at my feet. She ran off for a minute; then came back carrying the cleaning wand. She followed me everywhere, pushing it back and forth. Doesn't she know she has a toy vacuum?!

These next few pictures were a giggle...I always know when Sammie has had her hands on the camera.

Preschool Christmas Party

2011-12-14T18:42:00.000-08:00

Why does each school party consist of the parents standing around, watching their kids eat? Not the most fun...so, Alayna and I took over the extra seat and pounded M&Ms.

Sam's job that day was prayer leader.

At the end of the party, he kids had a book exchange.

"Tonight's Gonna Be a Good Night"

2011-12-13T18:38:00.000-08:00

Sammie has been practicing for her preschool Christmas since before Thanksgiving. She comes home from school everyday pretending to be her music teacher, Ms Jay Jay. She carries around stacks of stapled paper and acts out the entire play. My favorite is when she sings, "Happy Birthday Jesus."Sammie got to be THE STAR.

Houston Symphony Holiday Concert

2011-12-04T12:46:00.000-08:00

Best. Picture. Ever.
Especially the look on Ms Claus' face.

What We Are Thankful For in 2011

2011-11-24T18:51:00.000-08:00

This is the slideshow we watched after our Thanksgiving Dinner

Picture slideshow customized with Smilebox

Thanksgiving Day Parade

2011-11-24T15:12:00.000-08:00

We continued our tradition of staying downtown Houston on Thanksgiving Eve in order to wake up and walk out to the parade.

Our favorites....drill team and marching bands

Enjoying the ParadeGotta love the random crap they throw at the crowds...we heard nothing but whistles for a solid 10 minutes.Breakfast Buffet at the Hilton Americas

School Pictures

2011-11-16T06:28:00.000-08:00

School Field Trip

2011-11-03T17:15:00.000-07:00

Dewberry Farms - Take 2

Samantha's Preschool had a field trip to Dewberry Farms. We invited Grandma & Papa to tag along since it was their first time to go. It was quite a cold day, but we were able to get to the things we didn't do last time. In fact, I'm pretty sure we didn't miss an activity. First ones in...last ones out!Cow Milking with DaisyTractor PullZipline
Water Pump Duck RacesBike Ride Derby Sliiide MountainNap on the Hayride
Picking out PumpkinsAnd, lots & lots of Rope Swinging Super Fun Day!

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T19:22:00.000-07:00

Mary Beth & Emilynn

Spooky Dinner in a Pumpkin

Trick or Treating. This is about the only house Alayna went to. She just wanted to dig through her pumpkin and play with the candy...so unfocused!Blake's Mom's Halloween Cookies. Not a great picture, but it is true to form: Melissa is always in charge of frosting colors. Deesh is entertaining Sam. And Sam eats & licks & snitchels.Jahnavie and Arjun have spent every Halloween with us since Sammie was 2.
Boo to You!
Thank you to Grandma for coming over this afternoon to get everything ready. Not sure I could do much of anything without her!

Pumpkin Patch

2011-10-29T11:10:00.001-07:00

On the way to the pumpkin patch, Sam drew a picture of her perfect pumpkin. She scoured the entire lot to find the right one!

Trunk or Treat

2011-10-28T19:03:00.000-07:00

Just as I was about to be convinced it would be hot and humid until Thanksgiving...tonight (of all nights) was freezing! We're talking, like, 60 degrees people! Frigid! Actually, I think we were in the 50s once it was dark...but cold for Texas.Samantha and her buddies. They basically ran around like a bunch of crazies until it was dark.
Like I said...crazies.
Alayna was loving the ring toss game.
Seriously, of all the bows in the world...this is the ONE she didn't try to take off!

Trunk or Treat with Brianna & Atley
Happy-Holidays...well, most of us.

Fancy Nancy

2011-10-27T19:01:00.000-07:00

Today for school, Sammie got to dress up as a book character.
Introducing Fancy Nancy and all her fabulousness!
Ooh, La La!

Dewberry Farms

2011-10-21T18:09:00.000-07:00

After years of making the trip to Dewberry Farms, Blake was convinced to join us! Too bad it was also the year that the pumpkin crop was ruined with the Texas drought.We spend far too much time getting lost in the corn maze...I guess that can happen when Nolan, Noelle and Sammie take the lead.

One Year Old

2011-10-14T19:44:00.000-07:00

Today is your birthday!Weight: 19 lbs 4 oz - 7%
Height: 30 1/2" - 98%

Happy Birthday to You!

2011-10-08T19:26:00.000-07:00

Samantha Michelle

October 8th
Alayna Elizabeth
October 14th

What a weekend! We celebrated Samantha and Alayna's birthdays on Saturday with a backyard party! We are terrible at editing lists of friends, so we invited just about everyone. At the craziest, I think the count was 16 friends, 5 babies, 7 siblings, and 17 adults. Yikes!

Bounce House
We were sure this would be the highlight of the party...but it was trumped by the fort.
Fort & Swings
They could have played for 2 hours on here alone.
Craft Table - Jump Ropes
Grandma & Papa were in charge of the jump-rope making table. I underestimate the focus that little girls have....they just love to chit chat and craft...wonder where that comes from :)
Lunch
Although none of them really ate a thing, they have appreciation for the social time. Lots of giggles and friendly name calling.
Dance Party
Aunt Melissa was in charge of the music, and did great! Most of the dancing was done with the family while setting up, but Heather and Sammie continued it throughout the afternoon. If anyone wants a CD, I am happy to burn you a copy!
Baby Ball Pit
Yes...we were also celebrating Alayna's birthday...kind of. She had a few of her buddies over to play: Isla, Atley, Lyle and Henry. Of course, not a single one would look at the camera (all 15 takes and this is the best).
Impromptu Make-up Session
One of Sammie's presents was a giant makeup case. It was a hit. They all went right outside and starting having a beauty parlor...there was no stopping the fun. Thank you Brooklyn!
I even caught the boys checking out the loot...
Cake & Ice Cream
Alayna will be having her very own cake on Friday...pictures to come.And, presents!
Quite a whirl-wind of wrapping paper, bags and happy faces. Both girls got lots of great gifts...thank you!
Thank you to everyone who helped us make memories today!

Doughnuts with Dad

2011-09-29T11:41:00.000-07:00

Huntsville State Park Camping

2011-09-24T17:13:00.000-07:00

We spent a total of 24 hours camping in Huntsville, TX. It was perfect! We realize that doesn't sound very long, but with an 11 month old, you take no chances past one night!Sometimes we are just amazed at how well our planned outings go...and then wonder why others are such epic failures.

We spent the early afternoon setting up camp (Grandma's favorite). We were right along the lake with a huge concrete slab under the picnic table...a must have with Alayna, who spent hours sucking on ice from the cooler.

Then, we went exploring around the near empty park (my favorite).Whenever we did run into someone, they were instant friends and shared their toys. We missed the canoe rentals by about 10 minutes. Instead we tried our luck fishing. We bummed bait and caught...nothing. :(

There is a burn ban throughout Texas that includes no charcoal and/or camp fires...thank goodness for propane! We planned great food and s'mores!

Papa, Blake and Sammie's favorite part of the trip was the hiking...could it be because they left Alayna, Grandma and I behind for naps and reading (also a favorite of mine)? Father and daughter teaching moments...with Papa along to photograph each memory.
Sammie's other favorite was playing house in the screened shelter and tent. She was begging to go to sleep!
True sign of a successful day!

Schlitterbahn Round 2

2011-09-17T14:27:00.000-07:00

If it had been one week sooner, this would have been perfect! We got rained on, a lot. Luckily, we still had tons of fun and very low crowds. I think we even rode all the rides we wanted too...including Scaredy-Cat Melissa!

And, She's Walking...

2011-09-13T18:17:00.001-07:00

11 months old tomorrow...and walking today!

Not the best video...excitement in the moment trumps quality. These are the true first steps while everyone was away. I love how she just babbles on and on.

LOVING SCHOOL

2011-09-13T17:57:00.000-07:00

No big surprise here, but Samantha is loving school! She seriously doesn't stop talking about it when I pick her up. And when I drop her off, she is so quick to jump right into things, poor Alayna and I have to find and tackle her for our kiss goodbye.Can you blame her...with a fun group like this!

Ms Sandy and Ms Patty

Look at her right hand...when she does that I can just hear her saying, "now, here's what we're gonna do..."

Concentrating oh so hard!

Anxiously awaiting praise :)

1st Day of Preschool

2011-09-06T07:32:00.000-07:00

She's off!

Sam practically ran out the door and never looked back.I think the reality will set in next week and we'll all have a good cry. Until then, she is in good hands at Treasure Cove. Ms. SandyMs Patty

A Very Windy Galveston

2011-09-03T19:16:00.001-07:00

Mother Nature, and all her wind, really destroyed what could have been a perfect beach day at Galveston.Don't be fooled by these pictures...and all these happy faces in the sunshine...that is only half the reality.The Wind. Was. Unbearable.
But, we did have fun. Sammie managed to yelp for 2 hours straight...she may have even lost her voice.

Here we go Astros, here we go!

2011-08-05T19:07:00.000-07:00

Despite the Astros pitiful season, when given great seats...we go! We had dugout seats for the Brewers game. Sammie invited Avery along for a last minute trip to the park.

How is it that everything is more fun when you add additional kiddos...and sugar?

Alayna did great for her first game. We made a disaster of our seats and ourselves.

No foul balls for us.
I just love this picture. And no, the outfits were not planned.

I let the girls play with the camera during the game. I had 150 pictures of silly faces, the field and the people in front of us.

9 Months Old

2011-07-14T14:26:00.000-07:00

16 lbs 11 oz - 4th %

28 1/2" - 62nd %
17" head -There isn't much this little peanut can't do...even if she is only in the 4th percentile of weight! In this week alone she is crawling, playing peek-a-boo, clapping her hands, growing her 3rd tooth and finally sleeping through the night again...even if she has to cry it out.

Thank you, Brooke!

2011-07-05T14:45:00.000-07:00

With a little coaching from Brooke, her 5 year old cousin, Sammie learned how to ride a bike without training wheels! Nothing like a 5 year old cousin to teach you all the things you need to know.

Now, we need to get home and pull out her big girl bike.

Hooray, Sammie!

Triathlon & Golf

2011-07-05T07:27:00.000-07:00

Robbie continues his reign with the golf trophy for another 2 years.

Not only was there a triathlon for the adults...the kids also enjoyed one of their own. Coached by Dawna, Summer, Jessica and Erica.Swimming, biking and running...everyone's a winner!

Bear Lake Holiday Family Reunion 2011

2011-07-04T15:19:00.000-07:00

Every 2 years, the Holidays get together for a family reunion. This is the 2nd time we have officially met in Bear Lake. It was just as wonderful as we remember all those years ago.
Thanks for planning Colleen (and Brian)!

10 siblings & 31 grandkidsJuly 4th - 8th, 2011

A few stops along the way...

2011-07-03T07:01:00.000-07:00

My grandma has a timeshare across the street from Temple Square so we spent the week at The Kimball in downtown Salt Lake City. The location is beyond perfect. We took walks up to Memory Park.In the mornings and/or evenings, Blake and I enjoyed continuing the Memory Park trail up and around the canyon until it dropped down to the State Capitol Bldg.Blake and Sammie snuck in a tour of the Conference Center during one of Alayna's naps.

We visited Grandma Holiday in Centerville.Brigham Young UniversitySammie successfully rolled down every hill on campus.Blake and I replenished our alumni gear at the bookstore.No visit to Utah is complete without a real estate tour. We drove around Park City and Jordanelle and then stopped by our first home on Traverse Mountain...and yes, we knocked on the door for a tour!

Park City

2011-07-02T06:52:00.000-07:00

We met Kent & Ginger's 5 girls and Nate/Brittany/Noah up in Park City for the day before we headed up to the family reunion. We have been showing Sammie videos of the Alpine Slide for weeks!I could hear her screaming all the way down the mountain.

Rainy Day Play

2011-06-23T12:35:00.001-07:00

Peek-a-boo!

I am constantly surprised how well these two play together. They just giggle and yelp, nonstop. Alayna (and Sammie) have been loving all the toys we have stored away. Fisher Price has the catchiest tunes!

Sam has been really into wearing my dresses lately. Not at all modest, but cute as can be!

Rapunzel, Rapunzel! Let Down Your Hair!

2011-06-20T09:02:00.000-07:00

We have watched Tangled more times that I can count. Sam loves acting and pretending to her favorite shows, so it was no surprise when she grabbed one of my old scarves and 'tended' it was her hair. After a few weeks, the one scarf turned into four.

When I went to get Alayna this morning, I just followed the hair. And then we had a playdate...
Mary Beth & Emilynn are always game for dress up!

Sweet Baby A

2011-06-09T18:18:00.000-07:00

Miller Outdoor Theater

2011-06-08T19:43:00.000-07:00

Sammie's ballet friend Noelle invited us to see Camp Rock at the Miller Outdoor Theater. We hesitated only because it is summer in Houston and the play is at an amphitheater...little did we know that we would be front and center (literally)! The stage is air-conditioned and we were in heaven. Alayna and I had to take a few detours to the sidelines, but still had a great time.

Schlitterbahn New Braunsfels

2011-06-03T08:33:00.000-07:00

We finally made it to Schlitterbahn! Sammie (I should say Blake), has been looking forward to this trip for years. Now that Sam is tall enough for all the rides, we loaded the car and headed up before school let out for the summer.

We had a great time! No crowds and no lines!

Alayna and I followed these two fools around to all the slides.Sammie insisted that I go on them too. Sam was able to ride everything twice...pretty clever.

Things we did right: Come while school is in, 1st ones in & last ones out, bring food & drinks, water shoes, Baby Bjorn. Lessons learned: Park on the new side, bring a rolling cooler, only need one towel, don't need to bring chairs/umbrellas/strollers.
We weren't able to do the 40 minute tube float. Definitely a must for the next trip in August...yes, it is already planned. Thumbs up!

Everyone's favorite part of the day was floating along on the lazy river in tubes. Even Alayna enjoyed her very own tube.

Sam rode everything fearlessly!

Blake teased Sammie, "I bet Grandma & Papa didn't come because they are too scared." Sammie's reply, "no, they couldn't come because they are too old!" A perfect ending to any mini-vacation...BBQ, hotel pool, Bucee's and San Marcos Outlets.

Seven Meadows Sail Fish Swim Team

2011-05-23T08:37:00.000-07:00

We have had Samantha talking about and excited for the neighborhood swim team ALL year! Sign ups came and Aunt Melissa waited in line for hours just so Sammie could get a spot on the team. Each day at 4pm we would walk down to the pool for practice. Our neighbors, Mary Beth & EmmaLyn, a friend from ballet and a church friend were all there. The only problem? Swim team is all business and no fun. :( We figure you can only motivate a 4 year old so hard before you cross the line of a pushy parent. There is no secret she is a swimmer and loves the water, but after 3 weeks of practice EVERYDAY...Sam respectfully declined further attendance. :) We are going to put her in a year-round team and have her better prepared for next year.

Adamson Ballet Recital

2011-05-22T18:54:00.000-07:00

Samantha performed in her ballet recital. She did a great job!There were 12 little girls dancing "together."

"Never Grow Up...Not Me!

Backstage with Mom
Sammie, Noelle & Olivia

"They're Blu-tiful!"

Fan Club

Swimming with Baby A

2011-05-21T11:14:00.000-07:00

Cystic Fibrosis Walk

2011-05-21T11:10:00.000-07:00

We were invited to walk with Jared Griffeth in downtown Houston's 'Great Strides' Taking Steps to Cure Cystic Fibrosis. We were honored to be a part of this day and just love this little guy!

Happy Birthday Blake

2011-05-04T19:05:00.000-07:00

One year older and wiser too! Blake celebrates another birthday along with Cinco de Mayo. We had smoked brisket and mini-ice cream cakes from Cold Stone.

Then, it was pinata time! Sammie-Sam is up first.

Mom
Papa

Alayna & Grandma

Deesh

Melissa

Dad

Ole!

Happy Easter

2011-04-24T06:36:00.000-07:00

We introduced Alayna to all the Easter festivities...cookies and eggs!Easter Bunny came and brought books & candy for everyone.

Inside the house we found plastic eggs with puzzle pieces...

and outside was our decorated eggs.

6 Months Old

2011-04-14T12:51:00.000-07:00

Weight - 14 lbs 12 oz - 9%

Height - 26" - 35%
Head - 16 1/2" - 9%This baby is growing and growing! Dr Young was very pleased with the jump from 3rd to 9th percentile in weight. I haven't heard of many 4 month olds that start solids, but it worked for Lil' Lanie. We are quite proud of her chubby cheeks and endless smile.

Coin Collector

2011-04-09T13:31:00.000-07:00

Samantha is a collector of many things. Most of her collections are rocks, acorns and garbage. Thankfully, she also has a fondness for money! On Saturday, we decided to empty all her piggy banks and count up her money.

$129.16Papa collects quarters and found this to be the perfect time to introduce Samantha (and Alayna) into quarter collecting. After a trip to Hobby Lobby and a quick teaching moment Papa they are all set!
Samantha has nearly completed her State Series Quarters (1999-2009 collector's map). Alayna has her 1st quarter in the National Park Quarters (2010-2021 collector's map).

Final Four in Houston

2011-04-02T13:00:00.000-07:00

Blake fondly remembers the days in junior high when his older brother Brian would sneak him out of school so they could watch the first couple days of the tournament together...
How far they have come! Blake's Dad, Brian, and Nate all flew in to visit and see the games to see the final four and championship game live!
Brian also brought his 5 year old, Jake. We walked to the donut shop EVERYday and ate at all our favorite restaurants.

We finished each day with frozen yogurt. Including a double dose at one shop, only because we sat there for so long...how do you not go back for seconds?

Sammie and Jake nearly collapsed at the end of the each day.

"Roll-Over, A-lay-na!"

2011-03-27T16:37:00.000-07:00

Katy Youth Soccer

2011-03-26T06:16:00.000-07:00

Samantha has joined the Blue Dragons!Her team is 10 kids (age 5 and under), which breaks down into groups of 5 to play a game of 3 on 3. She has practice on Friday night and games on Saturday. This past week, she scored her first goal! Sammie loves to hear people cheer for her, and will run and kick extra hard if she knows anyone is watching. Her favorite part of the game is taking water breaks and tackling Beckam with hugs and kisses...girls can be so distracting.I didn't get her goal on video, but here she is assisting Jackson.

Grandma and Papa's Azaleas

2011-03-25T07:13:00.000-07:00

Every spring, mom and dad's azaleas bloom. They are the best looking house on the block!

Here is one of Grandma, Papa and Alayna.

And now the same pose, 4 years ago, with Samantha.

Spring Break with Summer, Drew and Dawna

2011-03-23T19:54:00.000-07:00

Summer, Drew and Dawna flew in from Tucson, Arizona to spend their spring break with us in Houston. We had a great time! I have been going through the thousands of pictures everyone took over the past week. Seriously, thousands...and they are all crap! I guess that is what happens when you let Sammie get a hold of 3 different cameras. Here are the ones that best represent our minivan adventures. We miss the live-in nannies, but don't miss the late-night (every night) game of MindFreak.

NASA Space Center
Super crowded, but pretty cool to see everything.

Swinging Door BBQ

No visitor comes to our house without a trip to our favorite BBQ restaurant.
Brazos Bend State Park
We had only about an hour here, but were able to a bunch of alligators!

Houston Livestock, Show & Rodeo and Carnival
Drew braved the 130' bungee jump and this is the only photo to prove it.
Blue Bell Creamery
I have 5 versions of this picture...so that each one of us is holding Alayna.
I give you one guess who's idea that was. :)

ConocoPhillips Rodeo Run

2011-02-27T08:09:00.001-08:00

While Sam, Alayna and I were in St George for the weekend, Blake's buddies at work talked him into entering the ConocoPhillips 10K Rodeo Run. His day started (and ended) with a 15 minute bike-ride into downtown. Although a 12 minute mile is nothing to shout about; he never stopped running! His last exercise of any kind was March 2010 church basketball...he can not move today :)

When Blake was younger and living in Colorado, his family would run the Bolder-Boulder 10K. So this run brought back memories and he is now challenging our family to make this a yearly Houston Holiday Family Tradition.

Here is the link to check out his results...search by HOLIDAY
http://www.conocophillipsrodeorun.com/EN/results/10kresults/Pages/index.aspx

1st Official Sleepover

2011-02-26T08:26:00.000-08:00

Samantha and her cousin Lydia were inseparable this weekend! They planned a sleepover together our last night in St George. After a day of swimming, hiking, playing and watching movies, both girls were exhausted by the time we got home. Their giggles only lasted about 5 seconds until they both fell fast asleep on the top bunk together.

4 Months Old

2011-02-14T18:57:00.000-08:00

Height: 24 3/4" - 42%
Weight: 11 lbs 10 oz - 3%
Head: 15 3/4" - 6%Dr Young wants Alayna to start on rice cereal. It's one gigantic mess, but hopefully will help her pack on the pounds. Alayna has been holding her head up for weeks!
She just won't lay down, it's like she is trying to do a sit up. She just can't wait to be a big girl!

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T17:19:00.000-08:00

Finally!!! Samantha's First Haircut

2011-01-22T09:47:00.000-08:00

Before

After

During...

Roller Skating

2011-01-03T19:56:00.000-08:00

On Blake's last day of the holiday break we wanted to do something fun, so we took Samantha roller skating. We weren't sure if she would be big enough or get into it...but like most things she tries...she loved it! The rink had these contraptions that helped kids with their balance. She may look ridiculous...but they work! Every time she fell, she would get right back up with a huge grin on her face. When they announced it was time for racing, Sam headed out onto the rink and got in line. Blake and I just kinda looked at each other and figured if no one stopped her, we would just let her go for it. Off she went...came in 4th place! Out of 5...and the 5th person got hurt. She's a champion either way!

World Map Mural

2010-12-30T19:34:00.000-08:00

Santa brought Blake a wall mural of a world map. Today Papa came over to help him wallpaper it to the wall in our gameroom. It looks great! We spent the afternoon putting up different colored pins.Blue: where our family lives
Green: places we have visited
Purple: LDS missions served

Christmas Day

2010-12-25T19:41:00.000-08:00

We really have no great pictures from this morning! Urgh! Regardless, it was a great day. Santa brought Sammie the ONE thing she kept asking him for...Rapunzel!Alayna had no requests, yet still got a few things.
We spent the day playing with Sam's new dollhouse, napping, eating, watching moviesand going for wagon rides.

Christmas Eve

2010-12-24T18:58:00.000-08:00

We spent Christmas Eve at my parent's house with the Picketts and the Proffits. We've been doing this group for years! It's fun to all be a little older and wiser, yet still keep all the same traditions.Samantha stayed up extra late making Santa's cookies and writing him one last letter...all by herself!

2 month checkup

2010-12-20T14:02:00.000-08:00

Height: 22 1/2" - 28th percentile

Weight: 8 lbs 1 oz - 1st percentile (yikes)

Head: 14 3/4" - 6th percentile

The good news is she is mostly out of her colicky phase and entering into the land of smiles and contentment.

Alayna's Blessing

2010-12-19T20:23:00.000-08:00

The Proffits and Picketts joined us for Alayna's baby blessing. No Holidays in sight! :(

Uncle Brian, Cousin Danny, Blake, Papa, Mark and Jamie Pickett

This was also Sammie's blessing dress.

Afterwards, we met for dinner at Brian and Diana's new house with Polli, Bob and Bronwyn.

It was a great day. Thanks to all that came and celebrated with us.

ConocoPhillips Holiday Concert

2010-12-06T19:17:00.000-08:00

We all dressed up and headed to downtown Houston for the annual ConocoPhillips Holiday Concert with the Houston Symphony. We met up with Jahnavie during the intermission for cookies.

And ended the afternoon chatting with Santa and Ms. Claus.

"Whisper what you'll bring to me...." How cute are these dresses! Thanks grandma!

Back to Church

2010-11-21T13:51:00.000-08:00

Today we made it to church. On time. Well fed. And sleepy.

One Month Checkup

2010-11-15T18:57:00.000-08:00

2nd percentile!!
6 lbs 11 oz

20"

Alayna had her one month checkup today. Despite her itty-bitty size, she is doing well.
"Oh, darlin' don't you ever grow up, don't you ever grow up...just stay this little. Won't let no one hurt you, Even though you want to, please try to never grow up."

Boat Races

2010-11-13T19:07:00.000-08:00

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-31T17:45:00.002-07:00

Ward Trunk or Treat

Lauren, Sammie and Avery

Trick or Treating
Jahnavie, Sammie and Rijun Frosting & Decorating Cookies

Carving Pumpkins with Dad

A few photos...

2010-10-26T08:35:00.000-07:00

The Bili-Bed

2010-10-21T08:45:00.000-07:00

On Monday, Alayna had her first appointment to see her pediatrician. When we checked out of the hospital, her bilirubin count was at 9.9. She is very sleepy and not a great eater, so that contributed to it going up to the danger level of 15.9. Yikes! The scary number for her weight class is 18, at which point she would be admitted to the hospital. In order to avoid that, the doctor ordered us a phototherpy unit...aka...the bili-bed. She has been resting comfortably on the lights, 24 hr/day for the past 2 days. The only time we can take her off is to eat...which we have been forcing her awake every 3 hours to nurse and supplement with 2 oz of formula...it's a battle to keep her awake that long.

After 2 days and 3 doctor/lab visits, the bilirubin count has gone from 15.9 to 14.7 to 9.5! Hooray! We are done and now need to get her nursing and off the bottle.

I seriously cannot get enough pictures of Sammie and Alayna. They can't seem to get enough of each other. Sam will hold her while she watches a show...sometimes close to an hour!

p.s.
Pregnancy hormones are NOTHING compared to postpartum hormones. I am starving all the time, can't get enough bananas to fill my craving and can cry and cry and cry. You can imagine what a wreck I turned into when this jaundice and feeding became a concern. Thanks to all those that have had to endure the tears. :)

She's Here!!

2010-10-14T08:19:00.000-07:00

Alayna Elizabeth Holiday

October 14, 2010

8:19am
5 lbs 11 oz
19"Iddy-bitty, teeny-tiny, but healthy and strong! It was a very calm and relaxing environment, and she is perfect!
Details below...read if you want :)
Proud Big Sister SamanthaGrandma and her girlsFirst birthday cake and songWhat a great labor and delivery! I have never been one for inductions...I always assumed it was only for the convenience of doctors schedules...but I might be converted! Blake and I checked into the hospital at 10pm on Wednesday. I got hooked up to an IV, baby heart monitor and a contraction monitor. I was dilated 1cm and 50% effaced. At midnight they gave me a prostaglandin to help stimulate contractions. My water broke at 2am (at 3cm) and I had contractions until 4:30. Got an epidural and started pitocin at 5:30am. Blake and I continued sleeping until about 7:30am...that's when a bunch of nurses came in and started turning on lights and setting things up. We were kinda annoyed because we were expecting to sleep and wait things out. One of the nurses said I was at 10cm, my blood pressure had slightly dropped and the baby was ready to come....what?! Dr Cole was called and on her way, and the nurses said to go ahead and push. So, I did...or at least tried...epidurals are great, I couldn't feel a thing, including whether or not I was actually pushing. Apparently I was, so they had me stop and wait for the doctor. 3 pushes later, Alayna was born.

Ready or Not...

2010-10-13T20:41:00.000-07:00

For those keeping up with this crazy pregnancy, we are going to be induced early! Our doctors have been closely monitoring the baby's growth (or lack thereof). She is growing, but dropping in percentile of growth...from the 30th, to the 17th and then fell to the 8th percentile. Once babies drop below the 10th, there is the question of whether they will survive better outside the womb than in. Our final week has been full of excitement and a little anxiety. We really were given no reason to worry, just get ready! We spent the day as a family at the Natural History Museum seeing the dinasurs...luckiily that didn;t remind Sammie of her favorite name for the baby...Dinah. We met up with Grandma, Pappa, Deesh and Melissa for dinner at Chuy's Mexican. Samantha got to spend the night at Grandma and Papas. Blake and I are checking into the hospital tonight at 10pm to begin the induction.

Here is the final beauty pose at 37 1/2 weeks.

To be continued...

Happy Birthday Samantha!

2010-10-08T11:55:00.000-07:00

Sammie turned 4 this year. We had a fun day with friends at Inflatable Zone and Double Dave's Pizza. For dinner we had a family dinner at our house. We had a fish fry with all of Pappa's catch from his fishing trip. Sam got princess dress-up, shoes and a bracelet... a new bike... lots of clothes & shoes, a puzzle, baseball glove and dolls. Everyone got big hugs and kisses after she opened their present.

She sure loves being the center of attention!

Field Trip - Donut Shop

2010-09-16T13:37:00.000-07:00

Sammie's New Room

2010-09-13T15:16:00.000-07:00

We have finally ventured into the upstairs of our house. We have 2 rooms and a jack-n-jill bathroom that has become Sammie and the baby's rooms. Walking up stairs is exhausting!

Happy 90th Birthday!

2010-09-07T18:23:00.000-07:00

Grandma Horst turned 90 this year and the majority of the family met in Las Vegas to celebrate.

Another Year of Joyschool

2010-08-31T08:21:00.000-07:00

We started Samantha's second year of Joyschool this week. We lost one kiddo and added a Prince Levi. The girls just love him! They like to play princess and pretend to be sleeping and wait for Levi to come in and wake them up. No kissing...yet. I'll have to keep my eye on this bunch! Sammie, Lauren, Heather and Levi.

Final Pool Days

2010-08-27T06:38:00.001-07:00

Sam took swim lessons for the first time this year. She is quite fearless in the water and could get around just fine, but we thought she might actually learn something...and she did! Coach Chandler taught her how to swim with big arms, breathe to the side, dive in and float on her back. She can get from one side to the other...when she wants to. Next summer our neighborhood has a swim team that she will be old enough to race with!

Back to Ballet

2010-08-18T06:45:00.000-07:00

Sammie started her ballet classes again this year. She makes such a sweet ballerina. Roll call!

"that boy that is visiting us..."

2010-08-10T16:58:00.000-07:00

Blake's nephew Robbie came to visit us...fresh off his New Jersey Mission! He was our first visitor when we first moved into our new house back in January 2008. He was busy hanging pictures, moving furniture and building different projects. This visit was no different...I had him and Blake rearrange the bedrooms to put Sammie and the nursery upstairs, convert Sam's bed back to a crib and rehang a bunch of pictures. Sam absolutely fell in love with him! Every morning she would wake up and ask, "mom, where is that boy that is visiting us?" They were buddies, whether he liked it or not. But, for as much as she enjoyed him, she could never remember his name...maybe that was her way of flirting. Blake took him to a few golf courses and we made it to an Astros vs Braves game.

Tickets for 4 people = $4
Parking = $4
Food for 4 people = $40
Hardly makes sense, but it adds up to a pretty good deal!

Making Her Presence Known

2010-08-09T20:51:00.000-07:00

From the very beginning this little one has been fighting to make sure anyone and everyone is paying attention to her. She has found that the best way to achieve attention is through causing complications...of which, she is good at! :)

A quick review and update:

6-10 weeks - small pregnancy sac - less than a 10% survival
(caught up to baby's size after 4 weeks of ultrasounds)19 weeks - low lying placenta, potential placenta-previa
(cleared 6 weeks later)26 weeks - low amniotic fluid and a cleft lip deformity
(referred to high-risk OBGYN)Today, we had a high-resolution/3D ultrasound with our new doctor. Our fluid level was a 12. The last check was 9.6 and low is anything 8 and below. And, our doctor found no sign of a cleft lip or palate.The placenta and umbilical cord are right near her face which is why the doctor believes it was suspected. The 3D ultrasound was great! We got to see her suck her thumb, yawn and cover her face with her hands...which made the doctor a bit frustrated since he never got a clear view of her left side. At only 28 weeks along, we have had a very emotional pregnancy. Our next appointment will be in 2 weeks to check on the baby's growth. She is measuring 10 days smaller than our due date of October 30th. The doctor is "not concerned, just aware."

Stay tuned for the final 12 weeks!

Galveston Island & Kemah Boardwalk

2010-07-05T17:29:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July from Galveston Island!!!

We've discovered another great way to enjoy the unbearably crowded traditions during the holidays. The key is to avoid getting stuck in traffic with the rest of the world. Fireworks always seem to be a nightmare to get in and out of. This year, we made last minute plans to stay on Galveston Beach at the Hilton to watch fireworks. It was right on the seawall! Blake found a great restaurant off the beaten path, Shrimp 'n Stuff, so we ate and then headed to the beach.

We set up our chairs and Sammie & Papa hit the water! As many already know, Sammie is fearless when it comes to anything...the ocean is no exception. They jumped waves and gulped sea water until it was too dark to see. We built sandcastles, dug holes and fed the seagulls our leftovers from dinner. The weather was perfect!The fireworks were shot off from a pier a few blocks down. We were just far enough away to have a great view and not be deafened by the booms...no ear plugs needed! And, all it took was a quick walk across the street to get to our home-sweet-home. Of course, add in time to stop and pet every dog and buy every overpriced trinket.We spent the next morning lounging by the pool. Sammie had a luxurious shower and ordered us around as a queen with her new septor in her bathrobe. Life of leisure for that girl.Then we headed to Kemah Boardwalk. It was H O T, but fun! Blake and Sammie got all day passes to all the rides. We certainly got our money's worth on this ride alone. Seriously, could not get this girl off of it! Or, this one...notice the loot in the backseat. Blake is a sure win at shooting basketballs!Blake used his all day pass for the big rides! He even talked Papa into a few of them. In the future, Papa will not be included in the big-boy rides...he is done, done, done.We survived the day...barely...if it weren't for the double chocolate-chip shakes at Starbucks and our stop for lunch at the Cadillac Grill, we wouldn't have made it through that hot of a day...to think, it was supposed to rain! Ha!

4th of July Party

2010-07-03T16:42:00.000-07:00

Luckily, the rain stopped just long enough this week to celebrate the 4th of July at the neighborhood party. Pony rides are always a hit! Although, she is starting to look really big on those little ponies.

There is nothing sweeter than 2 little girls holding hands...

Face painting...this lasted 2 full days!

Rides

Houston Children's Musuem

2010-06-28T07:42:00.001-07:00

For Blake's day off, we ventured to the Children's Museum...along with the rest of Houston. Sammie had a great time exploring, building and playing. If she was just a bit older, it would be perfect.Quick stop at the grocery store...then on to the diner to cook up all the food.We spent the most time building...Papa was so proud!You know she is concentrating when that tongue comes out!

Fearless!

2010-06-23T17:56:00.001-07:00

There is really no stopping this girl!

The 'no exception' rule for the slides is 42"...but after the lifeguards watch Sammie swimming around and being such a big girl, they let her ride the big rides!

It's a Girl!

2010-06-08T14:35:00.001-07:00

Dad: "Sammie, you're going to have a little sister!"
Sam: "NOOOOOOOO! I wanted a boy or a girl!"
Mom: "Sammie, we're going to have a baby girl!"
Sammie: "Yeeeeaaahhhh!"

Home Depot Kid's Workshop

2010-06-05T19:30:00.001-07:00

We had our inaugural trip to Home Depot's Kid's Workshop. Sam was so excited to go build something! She loved wearing the goggles & apron and working with Daddy.Her first project was a mini fuse-ball table. She watches Handy Manny on the Disney Channel, so she knew all the tools. Today we used Pat the Hammer and Phillipe the Screwdriver. If you haven't been to this even yet, we highly recommend it! It is free and fun. Lowe's has a similar workshop on different weeks, so our Saturdays are starting to look busy!

Blackberries

2010-05-30T18:46:00.000-07:00

I am really trying to garden. It's been a year, and I've already learned a lot. Many things have worked in our humble square foot garden, many did not. I've also planted an apple tree, a blackberry bush and a bunch of other plants and flowers. This year, was our first year for blackberries. I had very low expectations and I must say...they are great! Sam loves going out to pick the purple ones. I am planning on making freezer jam. Sam's only plans are 'smoothilies,' which in her language is smoothies.

Huntsville State Park

2010-05-29T18:36:00.000-07:00

We had high hopes for a camping trip over Memorial Day Weekend. Our plans were crushed when the park told us there was a computer glitch, and our reservation was double booked...so, we were out. We decided to make it a day trip. We are very excited to camp here! We've scouted out where we want to be and what will fill our days...

Canoeing

Fishing

Swimming and Sand Castles

Hiking and Picnicking

Blake is always on the lookout for the Best BBQ in Texas. He has found a top 10 list, so we made a stop at #5 - Mckenzie's BBQ in Huntsville. Not bad, but it was no Swinging Door.

Sam's Dance Recital

2010-05-15T18:30:00.000-07:00

It has been so fun to watch Samantha learn ballet and tap. She has so much energy and really is a good listener and quick learner! A dance recital at this age is really just a chance for all the parents to ooh and aah at there little girls in adorable costumes. It was great and worth every penny! Her first dance was part of a Cinderella performance. They had little wands they would 'tap' to the music. At the end of the dance, all the girls ran off the stage...except Sam, who stopped and did a little curtsy all by herself.The tap routine was to "Rock Around the Clock." The ending pose was with all the girls with their arms up...Sam knew this pose, but decided to go for one, all her own!All the moms got to be backstage in between performances to get the girls dressed and ready. It was a party!Most of the time...All lined up and ready to go! Hannah, Miriam, Reese, Sammie, Lauren, Niia, Katie and Danielle.Check out the size of that trophy! Sam has been talking about this for weeks...it sure didn't disappoint!It was a proud day to be a parent.And grandparent!And Aunt!
Deesh Bub, you were truly missed!

16 weeks and counting...

2010-05-13T13:43:00.000-07:00

Not that it has been a secret, or that I can physically hide it any longer...we are expecting a baby! I just had my 16 week appointment and am now safely in my 2nd trimester. Bye-bye risk of miscarriage...or so we are hoping. :)

This pregnancy started off badly with complications that scared us. Seriously, have you ever heard of a small pregnancy sac? Well, that is what this baby was dealing with, which according to our fertility doctor was everything to be concerned about. After moping around for weeks and lots of praying, one day the doctor said, "huh! nevermind! everything looks good!"

Due date is October 30th and we find out if it is a boy or a girl on June 8th.

Bike Ridin' @ Cullen Park

2010-04-30T05:24:00.000-07:00

Today we took Samantha on a bike ride through Cullen Park. We didn't do a whole lot of riding...mostly spent our time looking for sticks and eating our picnic.

Big Girl Booster

2010-04-28T10:50:00.001-07:00

Every little milestone Samantha crosses gets harder and harder for me to accept. I know every parent says this, but geez...it's true! They grow up so fast!

"About Me" Books

2010-04-21T10:34:00.000-07:00

For the past couple weeks in Joy School, the girls have been working on their 'about me' books. They have created lots of artwork and pages that tell the reader everything that makes them unique, special and important. Today was the final day...we got the books and assembled all the pages. They each did a presentation of their books, shared their favorite pages and a performed a talent.

Heather likes her profile page.
She showed us how she can write her name.Samantha also likes her profile page.
She can also write her name...she explained the "A" comes first.Lauren likes her painting page.
She sang everyone a song...with everyone's help.
Avery likes her family page.
She demonstrated her gymnastics and taught everyone cartwheels.Today was a great day and they had fun. Sam has reorganized her pages over and over and over. We also added artwork from past months at school.

Camping!

2010-04-17T13:39:00.000-07:00

We finally did it! A family campout!Well, I guess we shouldn't take too much credit. We crashed Grandma & Papa's ward campout, which was completely planned with food provided. We basically got in the car (not ours, we hitched a ride) with pillows, toothbrushes and a flashlight. We prepped Sam all week for the big event. We practiced making S'mores, had lots of talks of tents and sleeping bags, and since every night already involves a flashlight, she was ready!We went to Stephen F. Austin campground, which is only about a half hour away. The site was wonderful! I guess I was expecting a lot of dirt and humidity...but got none of that! It was really green and beautiful, right on the Brazos River (not so green or beautiful). We roasted hot dogs on the fire and had the Knies' famous homemade french fries. Sammie wasn't all that interested in being so close to the camp fire, but had no problem eating, and eating and eating! Sam played with a bunch of the kids....gathering sticks, playing 'find the twirly rings,' water balloons, bubbles, freezbie, and just running around. She wanted to go to bed so early! Shocking! The tent and sleeping bags were the highlight for her. It took her about 2 hours of zipping and unzipping the windows, testing everyone's sleeping bags, wanting to see the rain, and of course, flashlight games. She was the last one asleep, by a long shot.

We woke up to breakfast tacos and a hike to the river. Everyone we passed on the trail, Sammie would ask, "Have you seen Tarzan?" It was hilarious. There were vines growing off the trees everywhere...interesting that that was her connection.We are excited for our next adventure. If anyone is going, we'd love to tag along...we'll even contribute to the planning and executing!