no, no, no

We talked about riding the train all the way there.  Madison kept saying, "choo, choo" and would get a huge smile across her face...until we actually were at the choo, choo.  Then came "no, no, no."  What a mood swing.  She was hesitant to get on the train that runs around the Chapel Hills Mall but we finally coaxed her in.  And then came the excitement, with Miss America waving to all the passing people.  The entire time to follow she would hear the horn and her eyebrows would raise, a grin would spread across her face and lots of pointing trying to find the choo choo ensued.  After all that excitement we then went Glow Golf.

Yes, our expectations were low, knowing Madison would want to run around but we figured we could squeeze a few holes in.  Well, we were miscalculated.  We had a total of zero holes played.  Madison loved running around this huge open area and looking at the glowing monkeys and animals on the wall. 

To top this day off we also were able to visit Santa and get a free cell phone picture out of it.  Apparently their camera was broken and they were just allowing kids to chat it up with Santa.  Madison, the hesitant girl she is, enjoyed him from afar and was happy as long as either Mommy or Daddy were by her side.  I just can't wait to try and actually get a picture with Carson and Madison.  That will be interesting.  I have a feeling I may have two crying babies ;)

the best of friends

My really good friend Ali took pictures of our sweet Carson when he was just 1 month old.  She did SUCH an amazing job!!!   I love this pictures beyond words.  She too posted a blog about it and also the story of us.  I love her and her beautiful words so please click on the blue link as well as enjoying these pictures.

2 months

My sweet handsome man.  You make me smile every day and now you are smiling back.  You make little "coos" and smile because you are proud of yourself.  You little voice is sweet as ever.  And your smile lights up our hearts every time.

What you are doing now is still the same as last month, eating, eating, sleeping and sleeping.  You lay in our arms and stare right at us, as if you are memorizing our features.  I love laying with you.  I will wrap you in a blanket, into a loose swaddle, and we will just chill on the coach.  You are perfectly content with doing nothing but cuddling.  This makes Mommy happy.  I cherish the moments when we do snuggle. 

Madison loves doing anything you are enjoying doing.  When you are in the swing, guess who is right next to you.  When Mommy puts you down for a nap, guess who is trying to climb into the bassinet.  When you are enjoying tummy time, guess who is lying on top of you.  There are never moments of alone for you, other than we Madison is sleeping for her nap or for the night.  I used to feel bad thinking you never have our full attention but then I guess this is what a family is about.  We all share our best moments together now. Truly, I feel like we are extra blessed in that way.

My sweet boy we love you and can't wait for the next lifetime of memories with you and your sister!

meeting the stewarts

The other part of our weekend, when not planning the Halloween Party, was spent with our beautiful nephews and family.  The time is always too short but each moment is cherished just a little more.

Ben was taking a test most of the first day and the boys kept asking, when is Ben home, in how many more minutes.  Ben is a HIT every time the nephews see him.  Ryan and Nick are glued to him the entire time. It is so sweet to see.

Kari and I actually got some quality time together as well.  We both had our youngest with us but thankfully they both took a nap at the same time so we were able to catch up without being interrupted 20 times.

We had a great time and can't wait until the next....

 

 

carson's 1st month photobook

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carson's announcement

The Little Things Boy Birth Announcement

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3rd annual halloween party

Our 3rd Annual Halloween Party was a success! We had such a great time with all our friends and family (thank you Stewarts for coming down).

I love seeing everyone all dressed up and just letting loose, having fun, enjoying themselves.  This year was no different.

 

Ben dressed up as Maverick from Top Gun this year.  His friend, Tim, dressed up as Goose.  Both build and fly RC Airplanes and received TONS of static for doing so.  They had it set up so when Tim walked in the door the Top Gun theme song was playing.  Everyone was laughing.

 

I dressed up as "Flo" from Progressive.  I poofed my hair, sprayed it black and not one piece of hair moved all night.  Washing it...That is another story and about 6 shampoos ago.

 

Madison was a cute little Tinker Bell.  I really think the little ones look the best dressed up as sweet fairies.  She as adorable! 

 

Carson was forced into his Giraffe costume and wore it proudly by sleeping in Pia's arms most of the night.  She has just the right touch with those babies!

 

Ben's brother, Matt, and his family all came out again this year to enjoy the festivities.  I think the boys are the hit of the night.  Everyone keeps mentioning how polite Ryan is, how adorable Nick is and how sweet Lucas was.  One example from Jannic was when Nick broke Ryan's ramp Ben made for him, Ryan politely turned and said "Nick, this is why you don't get to play with my stuff." And respectively walked about.  I mean, a first grader!!!  Such sweet nephews we are blessed with!

 

Everyone pitched in making food, creating beautiful desserts and then devouring most of it.

 

 

Sweet Pia

Madison LOVES Pia so very much

Madison was SCARED to death of the gorilla so Garth was not able to wear it most of the night.  Little Grace was the sheriff and Greta the prisoner

Lucas needed a break from his giraffe costume!

Such a great party!

Pia and Jannic, the redneck

This was another VERY scary costume Madison did not enjoy!