Election '08

Go McCain-Palin! Check out this blog spot for 100 ways to support John McCain

http://moms4mccain.blogspot.com/2008/05/100-ways-to-support-john-mccain.html

A New Play Pen

Well, we were cooking out last night, and Jack was out with us enjoying the pleasant evening. He is now moving a little bit faster and is prone to getting into more mischief. So, we thought what better place to contain him than in the back of Ryan's pick up. We placed Jack back there with a few toys. You would hear noise coming from the back, then a small football would come flying out, and then Jack would climb up the side and pop up saying "football." It was so critterish watching him! Ryan, myself and the neighbors got many a good laugh out of it! We soon realized that this could not become a permanent play pen because his hands got awfully dirty from the liner in the back of Ryan's truck. It was a good thought though!

October Ranch Weekend

Last weekend was filled with a fun trip to the ranch. Jack enjoyed seeing Grandma & Grandpa M, and it was particularly special seeing his Uncle Michael. The weather was beautiful, and we had a fantastic time. Jack loved "cruising" around the patio and loved pointing to the cows, although he was a little frightened of the horses. Grandpa M taught him how to say "bull." He even said "rojo bull" because its red coloring.

Jack and his good buddy, Blakely

Jack loves his friend, Blakely! They had so much fun playing on Saturday!

Ryan turns 30!

Jack gives daddy his card.

Ryan made his favorite breakfast: chicken fried steak, eggs and grits

Dinner with our friends Marc (who also turned 30!) and Anna Catherine

Blake throws a fun celebration for Ryan on Saturday. From the doves, to the chicken fried venison, to the UT win, to Gary's mashed potatoes and Joanne's delicious cake....we had a great time!

We celebrated Ryan's thirtieth this past weekend! Enjoy the pictures from all of the fun and festivities. Happy Birthday, Ryan! We love you!

Jack's 1 year portraits

Isn't he a cutie?

Visit to Amie's

Amie and I before Church Sunday morning

Jack with his buddy, Faith. She was so sweet and loved taking care of Jack. She helped with his diapers, helped feed him and helped with his sippy cup.

Ella, Faith, Jack and Ethan

Amie and I with our TCBY! We loved that place growing up!

The kids enjoying lunch together. Amie had lots of yummy food!

Last Saturday morning I was feeling kind of sad. Ryan had just left for a hunting trip after having a long, busy week at work. I was really missing him, and I was struggling with my motherhood responsibilities with Jack. A sudden thought occurred to me....maybe I should see if I can get a flight to Memphis to visit Amie and her family. We had been talking about the possibility of a visit in the future, and I thought why not do it now. Of course, the flights were outrageous, but I was determined and through God's amazing blessing, I found some Continental miles that I did not know about and was able to book a flight to Memphis. Jack and I were off to see Amie Saturday evening. We had an amazing time, and it was so refreshing for me! Jack loved it too and was well entertained by Ella, Ethan and Faith. God is so good. Even though it was sad leaving Amie, and I miss Amie and her family so much, I came away from that visit refreshed and with a new focus on Christ. Amie is such an example and encouragement to me. Her faith is so strong, and I love how she demonstrated it with her children. We shared many a laugh and cry together, and it felt like we picked up right where we left off after not having seen each other in 4 years. Thank you, God, for the blessing of that visit. It was just what I needed! Thank you, Amie and Adam, for opening up your home and being so gracious and kind to Jack and I. We love and miss you all!