DustinJessyeMya*Tessa

Since the new year...

2012-01-30T16:54:00.000-08:00

This winter so far has been pretty nice. We haven't had that much snow and for Chicago it hasn't even been all that cold. Fingers crossed February doesn't make us pay. Mya is loving continuing with our preschool, starting a gymnastics class, and becoming a sunbeam; she LOVES primary. Tessa is growing up so fast it scares me a bit. She loves to eat, sweet potatoes are her favorite, she enjoys sitting in their room and watching Mya play, and is very ticklish. We are starting to introduce sign language to Tessa and Mya is doing a great job helping out. They both love the baby signing time videos and Mya has gotten into the older ones as well. Here is a look at a some of the things we have been up to this month.

We headed out to the Field Museum one day since Dustin had never been.

Mya loved seeing all the Fossils

Mya & Sophie at the Zoo. We are so happy the Fluckigers have moved close by!

Mya making a snow angel

Tessa in her little corner of the couch

Tessa eating, she loves to feed herself

Looking cute but pretty tired

Mya, Mommy & Tessa at the Field Museum

Daddy & Mya playing in the snow, Mya kept following tracks in the

snow trying to catch a monster

Tessa playing

Big smiles

Mya & Andee at the zoo

More Tessa!

Loving the snow

Mya, Sophie & Olivia at the Zoo

Christmas in Chicago

2012-01-02T14:32:00.000-08:00

We had Christmas in Chicago this year, and wouldn't you know it wasn't a white Christmas. That disappointment aside we had a lovely time. My mom, Nana, was able to come out for two weeks and be here for Christmas with us. We all had a great time visiting and getting into the Christmas spirit, Mya has loved all the carols and likes to sing along. Mya was even more fun this year and would continually tell us exactly what was going to happen with Santa and what he was going to bring, a Doll house of the Castle variety (a specific one) and then a week before the 25th she also decided Santa was going to bring her a jump rope as well; Still can't figure out where that came from, thanks to Nana for helping us prepare for the big day.

On Christmas Eve we had a delicious meal, relaxed all together and in the evening we were able to read the story of Jesus (or baby Jesus as Mya always calls him) from the scriptures and watched one of the church videos. She enjoyed it and knew the story pretty well as she had been acting it out with her nativity set all season. Later that night we set out treats for Santa, she wanted carrots for the reindeer, milk and chocolate cake for Santa instead of cookies so he wouldn't get sick of cookies. She also wrote Santa a note to thank him. She was amped about Santa coming and even though she said it was bed time around 7 she continued to come down stairs to discuss the finer points with us for the next hour before falling to sleep.

The next morning the first thing she did was look to see if he ate the cake etc, and read the note he wrote back to her. Then the opening began, Mya was a little hesitant at first but that quickly faded. Tessa was so good that morning and really just let us enjoy the moment. We had a wonderful morning and Mya loved playing with her toys. Being Sunday we went to church and afterwards made sure to Skype/call all the family. That evening we had desert with some friends and let the girls play (they have two girls as well) and get out some of that pent up energy. Our family had a great holiday season and I was grateful that Nana was able to enjoy it with us!

Nana and the girls

Nana and Mya

Tessa reaching for her gift from Mya

All the girls

Mya opening her gift from Santa

Mya jumping on her trampoline from Nana! Thanks to Daddy who spent

a cold Christmas Eve putting it together.

Mya bowling with Daddy's giant bowling set

Tessa giggling with Nana, she loved having

someone new to play with

Mya and Tessa in their new PJs Christmas Eve

Mya and Tessa in their Christmas dresses

St. Nicholas Day

2011-12-18T20:03:00.000-08:00

We continued our tradition of celebrating St. Nicholas Day on Dec. 6th. Mya had fun this year putting out her shoes that night before for St. Nicholas to fill, she even put one out for Tessa. The next morning she eagerly went to look in her shoes. Now her gift didn't fit in the shoe (St.Nicholas didn't bring any candy this year either) and when she looked inside her face was pitiful and she just looked at me "it's empty mom". Luckily I simply pointed out the gift behind it and all was well. I love this little tradition from my childhood and enjoy getting to carry it on with the girls especially now that Mya is getting older. Her are some pictures since Thanksgiving.

We were out in our meager snow fall and Mya starting playing with the snow. A few seconds later she started looking at her hands saying "aw cold aw this is why I need hand gloves" I started laughing one because it sounds like something I would say to her and two because what other kind of gloves are there?

Tessa and her favorite toy, She loves to chew...on anything really

Putting the tree topper on

Picture with Santa, Tessa didn't cry but was not at all sure about the situation

Beginning to decorate the tree

Mya opening her gift

After opening their St.Nicholas day gifts

Tessa's favorite thing is her toes she loves to play with them

Mya nursing her baby, she has been doing this since I had Tessa but I just now got a picture

Mya & Tessa

Mya

Thanksgiving with the Hoopes family

2011-12-03T21:12:00.001-08:00

My sister Rachel and her family were able to come up to Chicago from West Virginia again this year for Thanksgiving. Mya had a blast with her cousins and we were happy to have them see Tessa for the first time. Dustin prepared the entire Thanksgiving meal and it was amazing! Mya loved having the "big kids" around and after they left kept calling them "my Zoe and Ian". While they were here we were able to go to the Adler Planetarium, the zoo and the muppet movie. All had a great time and I loved getting to visit not to mention having others around to help with the girls. I hope one day soon the family can all live closer together, it is hard having to go so long between visits.

Mya and our thankful tree. We filled out a leaf everyday with what we were thankful for. Mya's ranged from dresses to nursery to her family. Three year olds are great!

Mya and Ian building at the Adler Planetarium

Zoe, Ian and Mya goofing around

All of them at the zoo

Zoe and Mya at the Adler

Rachel, Zoe, Ian and Mya video chatting with Nana and Aunt Kambra & co.

Zoe, Ian and Mya

Tessa with a big smile, she loved having all the kids to watch

Mya with her turkey

Daddy Daughter Date Night

2011-11-05T09:13:00.000-07:00

At the local Chik-Fila they had a daddy daughter date night and I signed Mya and Dustin up. Mya was really excited to go on her date and made sure to wear a dress (she loves dresses and wants to wear them all the time). She asked all day if it was time for her date yet. The place had a carriage ride for them and instead of the fast food atmosphere they had waiters, tablecloths and flowers on each table to make it a little special while still having the food the girls love. Mya had a wonderful time with just the two of them and talks about going on another date with daddy. Thank goodness for now she doesn't want to date anyone else!

Daddy & Mya

Daddy & Mya on the carriage ride

Daddy & Mya

Mya ready for preschool, she wanted to take a picture and choose to pose this way

Again ready for preschool, she loves this twirly skirt and was making me dizzy spinning all day

Trick or Treat

2011-11-04T09:20:00.001-07:00

Mya was hyped for trick or treating this year. All day before hand she wouldn't stop asking if we could go trick or treating yet. She loved running around with her friends saying trick or treat to everyone. Each morning for the last week she has been waking up saying happy halloween mommy! This might be her favorite holiday, she gets to dress up and get candy...what's not to love? Here are some pictures from trick or treating.

Mya & Jaxon at the ward trunk or treat

The family at the trunk or treat

The morning after Mya asked for candy for breakfast..of course we said no. A few minutes later she had disappeared....we found her under the table with her bag of candy. She said she was being very sneaky as if it was a good thing. Hard to discipline when you are trying not to laugh!

Stuffing down a hot dog (from the local fire station) before heading out to trick or treat on Halloween

Tessa all bundled up, she was wide eyed the whole time until she finally fell asleep in Daddy's arms

Mya & Andee trick or treating

Our love bug Tessa at the ward trunk or treat

County Line Farm

2011-10-21T06:35:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we drove down to Hobart, Indiana (about an hour drive) to go to the County Line Farm. We took a tractor ride and pick some apples as well as our pumpkins for halloween. We also viewed some bee hives where they harvest their honey from. Mya really enjoyed it and wants to go back. They had two huge farm buildings one of which sells all the home made goods, they had some amazing pumpkin donuts and apple pie as well as all the preserves and butters you could think of. We plan on making it a fall tradition (well at least for the next three years!) and during the summer you can pick corn which should be fun since both Mya and I love corn on the cob.

Mya smelling an apple she picked

Mya sitting on some pumpkins

Mya and Daddy

on the tractor

Walking through the apple trees

picking some apples

Me and my girls

Mommy, Mya and a sleeping Tessa

Mya showing us her apple

Daddy helping Mya

Fire Station

2011-10-18T08:02:00.000-07:00

So we have started doing a preschool for Mya and her friends Jaxon and Andee. Each week the kids go to one of the houses for a couple hours of preschool and play time. The kids love it and I think it's going great. Last week we had a field trip to the local fire station. It was wonderful and the kids had a blast exploring the fire station, fire truck, fire engine and the ambulance. They even gave the kids fire hats and a little stuffed animal. Mya had a great time and was happy they didn't turn on the sirens b/c she thinks they are too loud!

Mya in the fire engine

Mya, Andee and Jaxon listening to the fireman

Brock (Andee's brother),Jaxon and Mya sitting on the fire engine

Mya trying on the headset

I told her to say cheese for a picture, which she did, but she also kept her finger in her nose!

fun at home

2011-09-27T18:54:00.001-07:00

Sometimes we have the most fun as a family just hanging out at home. Here is some video of us doing just that. The first clip is us lounging one weekend morning chatting with Mya. The second is some of Tessa and Daddy playing. And the last is a game we played for family night one week..well it isn't much of a game but Mya was loving this ping pong ball she found so Dustin just went with it. The video is long and the quality is lacking but I thought I would share anyway....especially for the cousins who love see how the little ones are doing!

August flew by!

2011-09-06T18:08:00.000-07:00

It is ALREADY September. I thought I would make a post showing some pictures of what we were up to in August. We've been taking it easy, enjoying time as a family now that we are one of four. We even got a picture of Tessa smiling. I can't believe she is now 2 months old. I mean this in a good way but it feels like she has been around longer than that!

We went on a picnic to a new park recently and here is Dustin pushing Mya on a swing

Here they are again

Climbing away

Mya on the zip line. She was scared of course but ended up liking it

Eating our picnic. There was a birthday party so all the tables were taken and we didn't see the lovely shaded area with trees till after we ate! Of course

Mya got to help daddy wash the cars, she had a blast and kept giving me a play by play

It has taken awhile to get this on camera

Big Smiles

Tessa resting with Daddy

At the zoo, Mya smiling at me while looking out at the Brown Bears

Who Who?

Still looking at the Bear, he is standing up against the wall and Mya asked me why he was trying to climb up the wall? It was so windy that day, love the mohawk look!

Pictures of Tessa

2011-08-15T12:32:00.000-07:00

I finally got around to taking some pictures of Tessa by herself. Well one of them I just forgot to post last time! The picture of her feet is the same as one we have of Mya and eventually we want to place them in Dustin's office.

Pictures with Tessa

2011-08-02T12:35:00.000-07:00

We were lucky enough to have Nana here for two weeks and than to have Gramma and Pop Pop come for the week after that! It was great to have the help and Mya loved seeing her grandparents! Here are some pictures of the girls with them.

Mya and Tessa

Mya helping prepare dinner

Mya singing eensy weensy spider to Tessa after a sponge bath....wish I had the video camera!

Nana, Mya and Tessa outside our house

Told Mya to smile..this is what I got instead!

It starts already....Mya wanted to be wrapped up just like "her baby"

Nana and Mya reading in her tent

Gramma, Mya and Tessa

Pop Pop, Mya and Tessa

Mya playing dress up

Mya and Tessa

Nana and Tessa

Tessa Jo

2011-07-15T10:08:00.000-07:00

Tessa was born on July 7th, coming in at 8 pounds 10 ounces and 21 1/2 inches long. We love our new addition but she picked the worst week to come into this world! Thank goodness my mother had gotten in town the day before. Forgive the essay I am about to write I hope I am not complaining too much. That morning (the 7th) we went into my doctors, now when you are past your due date they hook you up to a monitor in addition to the normal exam. So we get going and basically all is fine but nothing is happening labor wise (we were trying to do a VBAC) so we discussed specifics for our scheduled c-section on the 12th (a date we liked b/c Dustin wasn't on call). As he is walking out the door he says wait gotta check your fluid level. As he is checking I can tell he isn't liking what he sees. Next thing he says... well scratch that you are having this baby today! The fluid level was too low and while all was well it wouldn't remain so. Now Dustin started orientation for his residency on June 8th, however this was his first week of his first actual rotation and he was on call for podiatry AND ortho. As a result he got off the afternoon for the c-section and that was it. And with his ortho call he was there from 7-12 on sat and from 7-3 on sunday, off just in time to come pick me up from the hospital! Poor guy was run ragged from working 10-12 hour days and then driving the hour to the hospital to see me and the baby. A vastly different experience then with Mya instead of being alone both Dustin and Nana were around and Dustin just went on summer break (yes I know things can't always be that easy!) But I guess those of you who have more than one kid this is probably familiar as some one has to stay with the kiddos! Thank goodness Mya is such an angel and Nana was here to spend time with her.

The first night after surgery it is awkward to move and you can't walk so when they found out I was alone Tessa had to go in the nursery for safety. In addition to that Tessa's bili levels were high at just 25 hours old so she had to go under the lamp for roughly the next 36 hours. Thank goodness I was breast feeding, because I only really saw her when they brought her for me to feed. Nana and Mya came the night she was born and the next day for a while which in hind sight wasn't the best idea...I was hurting the worst that day. But seeing them was really good for me and Mya just loves her baby sister. When they left Mya was seriously sad and wanted to take us with her, thanks goodness for a kind nurse who came and gave her the, lets call it, the "big sister" gift package on the way out. The nurse came back and said Mya was the sweetest thing and you could tell we were great friends (she has the been the one and only for 3 years!) because on the way out with all these treats she said she still wanted her mommy!

Tessa is now home and things are going well. Mya is adjusting and loves to talk about and help with her baby sister. Thanks to some play dates (thank you Krista and Aimie), outings with Nana, and special time with Mommy while Nana watches the baby she isn't feeling too left out. And of course when Daddy gets home she can't wait to tell him about her day and how baby sister is doing. Despite the less than ideal circumstances we are so grateful for how well things are going and that Tessa is a healthy little angel....all in all it was well worth it!

Tessa Jo Lloyd

Nana, Mya and Tessa getting ready to leave the hospital YEAH!

Mya peeking over the bed to see Tessa.. She always had a wide eyed expression when coming into the room to see us

More kisses..When Mya first came to see Tessa the night she was born

Still in surgery, they quickly show me the baby before Daddy whisks her off to the nursery

Mya and Tessa the night she was born

Our first family photo, Tessa just a few hours old and Mya with the doll Tessa got for her! Tessa is still a little young to play with the stuffed animal Mya brought her.

First morning home, Tornado sirens go off, just what we need, here is everyone curling up after it was over...still in our jammies. Luckily Mya didn't get too scared at the storm and Tessa slept through it....we did have one a few weeks ago so she knew the drill. However this time the power went out until later that night!

Visit from Gramma & Pop Pop

2011-06-22T12:08:00.000-07:00

Dustin's parents flew in for the week of his graduation. I haven't gotten around to making a post as we moved about a week ago. We are now getting settled and somewhat back to normal...just in time to get ready for baby! We had a blast and Mya enjoyed all the attention. We were able to go to the zoo and take one of the boat architecture tours of chicago. We loved being together and Mya had fun playing with and getting spoiled by the grandparents!!

Mya with her golf clubs

I think putting the ball on the tee was her favorite part, she was frustrated that she couldn't get the ball to go as far as daddy and pop pop

Dustin and his "happy graduation" cake

the family after the boat tour

Mya

Gramma, Mya & Pop Pop

Mya in her scrubs just like daddy!

the family about to get on the boat

Mya and daddy at one of our favorite places to eat Wildberry

Mya talking to her baby sister. If she is hugging or talking to my belly and I answer she says I am not talking to you, I am talking to baby sister.

Mya on a train ride at the zoo

Gymnastics

2011-06-09T11:38:00.000-07:00

Mya has been taking a gymnastics class once a week for the past couple of months. This monday was their "show" day where they get to invite family and earn their gold medal. Mya was excited for this last class and has really enjoyed the whole experience. Over these last months she has grown tremendously. To start with she was timid and would barely try the equipment, she has come a long way to now exploring and doing things on her own!

Mya doing the bear walk across the bars

Mya loved repeatedly walking around this "donut" and then jumping into it!??

Mya getting into position to swing down from the bars

Mya loved to crawl (well on her feet) on the big balance beam, once they get to the end they jump off into a donut

Mya receiving her medal. The teacher says a little about each kid and Mya could barely contain herself waiting for the medal!

Congratulations Dr. Lloyd...You did it!

2011-06-04T17:05:00.001-07:00

Friday was Dustin's graduation from Podiatry school. His parents flew in town for the event and we have had a great visit. The day started bright and early waking up at 5 so we could be heading down town by 6 hoping to beat traffic. They let you in at 8:30 to get seats but graduation didn't start until 10. Needless to say once we arrived at the Chicago Opera House we waited... (about an hour) than once they let us in we waited some more (about an hour and a half). That being said, Mya was a trooper and while she was tired and whiney she did it quietly and let me enjoy the moment. She even fell asleep for a little while. Of course we woke her up so she could cheer on her daddy as he received his hood and diploma! They kept graduation short this year to two hours so all in all it was a good experience. It is official, Dustin has graduated and is now Dr. Dustin Lloyd. Or as our elderly neighbor now calls him Dr. Dimples! We are extremely proud of him. Four years of undergrad, four years of podiatry school now all that is left is his three year residency! We appreciate all your hard work, we love you and know that you do all this for us as well. Mya is so cute when she tells me that daddy goes to work at the hospital and helps people. We love you Dr. Lloyd!

daddy and daughter with their graduation caps

Proud Parents!

Our family

Father and Son

The Diploma

Mother and Son

Mya sleeping on my lap, thank goodness the seat next to us was empty so I could sorta get into a comfortable position. My belly was really getting in Mya's way. But isn't she cute!

Daddy and Mya, she is such a daddy's girl

Wow a picture with just the two of us!

Mya turns 3!

2011-05-23T18:14:00.000-07:00

Mya was extremely excited for her birthday this year and was looking forward to it for months. She asked for an OLIVIA party, but basically we just decorated with OLIVIA and had the kids do a craft and play. We grilled hamburgers and hotdogs and Dustin made some delicious red velvet cupcakes (thank you honey!) We kept it small even though Mya had a few others she wanted to invite, the weather predictions were not cooperating for an outdoor party and our little apartment couldn't hold many more people! She ended up having a wonderful time and even though for the start of the party it was raining by the end we were able to take the kids to a park to play.

Two funny birthday stories:

When we came home from the park around 5 we bathed her and she fall asleep on the couch around 6 (she never does that). Around 9:30 she woke up crying. She came in our room sad and very upset that she forgot to give her friends their goody bags (she could barely get the words out around the tears) and now they were gone! We had to convince her that she did give it to them and they were sleeping now at their homes too!

Before the party started, Dustin and I were trying to get ready and Mya just wouldn't give us any space to do anything. Finally she came up to me and said.. I'm grumpy (with her best angry face), I don't want a party. I asked her if she was upset because we weren't paying attention to her. She immediately looked at me and said YES.

Mya, Andee and Jaxon playing under the table

Mya getting ready to blow out the candles, we had to tell her repeatedly not blow them out till after the song was over

Some of the OLIVIA decor.

Mya waiting for her friends to arrive, playing with some of the craft supplies

Trying to blow out the candles

Mya and Andee working on their doll houses

Mya (on her actually b-day) opening her soccer ball..I was a little disappointed at her reactions to the gifts, this was probably the best...she has loved all her presents but when opening them she ripped it open as fast as she could, looked at it and then moved on to the next one! It was pretty funny although I was looking for a little excitement! Well like daddy like daughter...at least Gramma can sympathize!

We got a little pink cake for her actual b-day so we could have a family celebration, she was anxiously waiting to blow out the candles

Easter

2011-04-26T11:32:00.000-07:00

We had a fun easter even though the weather here has been way colder and wet for ALL of April then normal. Mya loved coloring eggs, decorating cookies and hunting for eggs. The night before we had Mya put out her easter basket so the easter bunny could come fill it up with goodies. She was really excited and kept saying the easter bunny was going to sneak in and leave her treats! The next morning she enjoyed following the clues he left so she could find where he hid her basket. For easter dinner the Zimmer's came over and the kids had a fun easter egg hunt. Mya was a good sport even though her allergies have been acting up and really got into finding the eggs.

Mya reaching for an egg

Mya getting some treats out once we were back inside

Mya checking out what Jaxon found

Decorating cookies in our PJs, Mya LOVES doing the sprinkles

Jaxon's super hero birthday party the day before easter, Mya wanted to sleep in her cape that night!

Mya and Jaxon anxiously waiting to go find some eggs

Mya looking in all the cups as the eggs dye

Jumping on the bed and telling me all about the easter bunny

Mya excited about finding a clue

Match Day!

2011-03-14T17:26:00.000-07:00

Match day is finally here! We have been waiting for what seems like forever. Well today we matched to Mt. Sinai hospital here in downtown Chicago! Huge plus, our friends the Zimmer's matched here too so Mya will get to keep her best buddy Jaxon and the Matthews are second year residents there so it will be nice to be closer to them. Not to mention how much more relaxing the move and the new baby's birth will be considering I am due roughly two weeks after he has to start.

Baby Sister for Mya!

2011-02-21T18:02:00.001-08:00

Mya with the latest ultra sound, she is more than a little excited!

So cheesy!

Around July 6th we are going to welcome our 2nd baby girl into the family! Mya is excited to have a baby sister and actually told us before hand that mommy had a baby girl in her belly. On Thursday I will be 21 weeks and all is well. We are thrilled to have our family growing and with the upcoming move (pretty much right when I am due) we are going to have a wonderful but crazy summer. Now we are just counting down till March 14th when we find out where we will move for residency!

Blizzard

2011-02-07T11:10:00.000-08:00

Last week we had a record breaking blizzard hit Chicago. It was the 3rd largest and the last one that was bigger was over 10 years ago. The Chicago public schools were even closed and they hadn't had a snow day in over a decade! Luckily Dustin got off early enough that evening that he was able to get home before it got bad. Once the storm had passed the next day was fun seeing and the snow and staying nice and warm inside together.

Mya making pizza, she did everything from rolling the dough, putting sauce on and then helping with the toppings. (actually taken a couple days after the storm)

Mya stirring up the brownies, something sweet for a long day inside!

Our cars, both pretty well hidden

The view outside our window, you know it is bad when the plow gets stuck! He was stuck right outside our window for about a half hour. Now we have a lovely view...a pile of snow

Dustin going to dig out the cars!

Old videos!

2011-02-04T18:57:00.000-08:00

I realized that I never posted any of the videos that were taken from this summer's grandparents visits...so I thought I would now! I just pieced some of my favorite parts together.

Texas!

2011-01-19T11:37:00.000-08:00

For almost the last two weeks we have been in Texas for Dustin's residency interviews. It was a whirl wind trip unfortunately not getting as much time with each family as we would like (driving takes a good chunk out of the trip) but we had a great time visiting anyway! Mya and I were able to spend several days with my family in Austin and then went back up to Dallas to spend the rest of the time with the Lloyds. We got to see Morgan (Dustin's brother) and his wife Melissa as they moved back to Allen briefly since he finished up at BYU. In Austin we got a big treat as we got to meet Kyle Hayden Allen for the first time, born October 15th, he arrived in my sister Kambra's home right after Christmas! It was such a great blessing and the family couldn't be more excited. Mya loved "helping" with her new cousin....well as long as I wasn't holding him! We had fun seeing both families and enjoyed our time with everyone (even though Nana and I got sick while in Austin). A break from the frigid winters up here was also a welcome perk! We love our family and were grateful for the time we got to spend together!

Mya rubbing "baby kyle's" head, she was good at being soft

Mya looking out at the Giraffe's at the Dallas Zoo

Mya and Uncle Morgan at the Zoo, Mya wasn't sure she wanted to be up there

Pop Pop helping Mya ride the horsey at Chucke Cheese

Gramma and Mya coloring, I felt bad Mya had Gramma down there on the floor for almost an hour!

Mya and Daddy looking at the Elephants

Mya running on the field at the new Dallas Cowboys Stadium, she loved being "football players" and didn't want to leave

The family in front of the stadium, they were preparing the stadium for the upcoming super bowl

Looking out from one of the Suites in the stadium

We got to watch a demonstration with the Lions. It was really neat and this picture was not zoomed in at all. Mya was just watching with her mouth open!

Mya flew out of the slide while playing at a park with cousin Kaleigh

Before bed Kaleigh read a book to Mya

Mya comparing her cheeks to Kyle's

Nana, Mya, and Kaleigh holding her little brother Kyle

Same as above

Mya sleeping in Austin, Thank you Kaleigh for the use of your bed!

Nana and Mya outside the house

Christmas in New York

2010-12-31T12:49:00.000-08:00

Dustin spent December on an externship in Buffalo, New York. Since I for sure wasn't going to spend Christmas without him Mya and I flew up for two weeks and then drove back with him. We had a great time in Buffalo. Dustin had some time off around Christmas so we were able to see Niagra Falls and tour the church historic site around Palmyra. Both trips were freezing but we bundled up and went ahead! Mya loved getting to swim in the hotel pool and one day while Dad was working I finally took her to see Tangled. She had been asking to see that show the "new one" for awhile and seemed to really enjoy it. Christmas in a hotel was interesting but we still got a tree and set out cookies and carrots for Santa and the reindeer. Mya wasn't bothered at all by being in the hotel and was just too excited finally getting to know "whats in here" for all her presents. After all her talk about santa bringing her a camera her favorite gifts seem to be Toy Story 3 (she is a little obsessed) and her dress up box (that we created from on clearance Halloween costumes). She loves to wear her "save the day" hat (firefighters hat) when she is saving her toys from whatever disaster she has gotten them into. We had a wonderful white Christmas but are glad to be home. Not to mention having all Dustin's externships completed YEAH!

The Falls

Mya and I outside where the Book of Mormon was first printed

Mya in front of our little tree

The Family in front of the Smith home

Mya and I near the Falls

Our lovely ginger bread house, Mya was more interested in eating it!

Mya and Daddy walking to the Sacred Grove

Mya in the Smith's log home (different from the one shown above)

All of us in front of the Falls

Mya and Daddy in front of the falls

More Mya-isms!

2010-12-15T11:05:00.001-08:00

Pop Pop recently sent me some pictures from his camera and I thought I would post some of them below.

Also here are some of the latest phrases I hear from Mya daily

-Whatcha doing Mommy

-Let me check something

-Wait a second or minute (she does this with her hand up palm facing you)

-Have an idea

-Ummmm (while touching her pointer finger on her chin)

-No do that or I not --fill in the blank ( she says this with a scowl on her face--She has gotten pretty sassy, it can be funny when she does this though so I have to work hard to keep a straight face!)

-Thank you SO MUCH- it was funny to hear her all of a sudden add the so much!

Mya at the park-it was way colder that day then we thought!

Mya relaxing against Daddy's chair

I don't know what she was reacting too but it sure is cute

Mya had buried herself with her stuffed animals in the bucket (with Gramma's help) and then fell over. She thought this was very funny

Gramma had brought some masks for us to paint, aren't we wonderful artist!

Happy St. Nicholas Day!

2010-12-11T09:03:00.001-08:00

Monday was St.Nicholas day and this year Mya sorta got what was going on. We put our shoe out the night before and of course St. Nicholas filled it up. This year things didn't really fit into the shoe however. One of Pop Pop and Gramma's gifts came after they left so I went ahead and included it. Mya also got some footsie PJs (it is freezing here) and a book about Christmas, Llama Llama holiday drama (she loves her other Llama Mama book!) She had a blast opening everything and new right away that the big gift was "real hard" to open and "Mommy needed scissors". She could barely wait for me to get things open. I can't wait to Christmas, she is going to be really fun!

Mya opening her PJs

Mya playing with the toy from Pop Pop and Gramma (it was a zoo that works on the alphabet)

Reading her book

Opening the "real big" one

I asked her to say cheese but she told me to SHHH (it is a BAD habit she is getting into when I am saying things she doesn't want to hear)

Hoopes family visit!

2010-12-07T20:14:00.001-08:00

Over Thanksgiving my sister Rachel and her family came to visit us from West Virginia. We had a great time and enjoyed getting to catch up with one another. Mya of course LOVED playing with her cousins Zoe (9) and Ian (7). They were able to go down town twice attending both the Field museum and the MOSI. We unfortunately only got to join them once as the illnesses that I mentioned in an earlier post struck Mya in the midde of their visit, luckily the worst came after they left but we still missed getting some good pictures of the kids (I had such plans for cute pics when we were downtown) but as usual something came up! I should learn my lesson and take pictures the first day of the trip. Anyway we are excited that they are now closer to us and hope that will remain so (we find out where we go for residency mid march) so we can have more visits. We love you guys!

Mya & Dustin playing at the MOSI

Zoe & Ian reading to Mya when she was sick

Mya playing at the MOSI she got so excited when she saw this exhibit since they have something similar at the Children's Museum

Ian reading to Mya when she was sick--she has great cousins!

Mya & Ian (Zoe was there too but missed getting in the pic) all dressed up (well Mya was) & having a tea party

Mya's teaching moment

2010-12-02T11:16:00.000-08:00

I forgot to add this little story to my last post. So one evening when Mya had diarrhea we ended up needing to give her a bath. Now she loves playing in the bath and didn't want to get out. Dustin wanted to shower too so he told her that she needed to finish soon so Daddy could shower. She looked at him and said "ok dad wait your turn" and then continued to play! I thought that was so funny, I mean she has to wait her turn why shouldn't we?!

Sick girl

2010-12-01T09:03:00.000-08:00

Mya has been sick going on 5 days now. We have only left the house in the last three days to go to the Doctors. She has had a whole array of illnesses. She started out with vomiting, then two days of constant diarrhea, combined with a nasty cough, a fever, and a double ear infection. Nice right. So the Doctor gave her some medicine and she is feeling mostly better, we have another appointment today to see of her lungs and ears are clear. She was wheezing badly so the Doctor put her on a nebulizer. Mya thought that was cool (at first) since I have one and she sees me use it on occasion for my asthma. It is so sad seeing her sick but I am glad she is finally getting better. However now Dustin and I are started to feel the beginnings of a cold! Lets hope it doesn't develop into one.

Mya using the nebulizer, she insisted on doing it herself. I was impressed with how well she did.

Pop Pop & Gramma

2010-11-30T09:43:00.000-08:00

We had a great time when Pop Pop and Gramma came to visit. We enjoyed catching up and of course Mya couldn't get enough of the attention from her grandparents. I have to say it was a nice break to have some one else play with her for awhile! I think her most common phrase is "come play mom" (or dad) She loves her Pop Pop and Gramma and can't wait to see them again in January.

Mya playing the drums at the Children's Museum

Mya was 1/2 pouting and 1/2 falling asleep when we were taking them to the airport (she didn't want them to go) so she wouldn't smile

Gramma helping Mya drive a train at the Children's Museum

Cute bum!

Mya got to open Christmas gifts from them, she loves to have tea parties now!

Mya putting the rabbits away in the Curious George portion of the Children's Museum, she loves George and was excited to see this part!

Face painting, she of course had to do it herself

Thank You Nana!

2010-11-20T20:29:00.000-08:00

Mya and I are so grateful to my mom (Nana) for coming out to be with us for 3 weeks in October, while Dustin was gone for the month on a rotation in Augusta, Georgia. Being apart from Dustin for that long was awful but having her here made it significantly easier to bare. We had a great time relaxing and just letting Nana in on our daily routine. Mya got very attached to Nana and was crying when we said goodbye at the airport, I know that Mya can't wait to reunite with her Nana in January! We loved having her here for so long, I wouldn't have finished the month in such a good mood(or maybe even sane!) had she not been here for most of it! When one person is gone for a long while you REALLY appreciate all they contribute to the family (especially when children are involved) not to mention how better things are when they are around. So here's to Daddy being home and Nana for taking up the slack (and having some fun) while he was away! We love you both!

Nana & Mya in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Nana showing Mya some buttons to push at the Field Museum, after which Mya wouldn't stop pushing them!

Decorating cookies....well Mya ate more than decorated!

again in Lake Geneva

At Krolls Farm

HALLOWEEN

2010-11-02T16:20:00.001-07:00

We had a great Halloween. We went trick or treating at our wards trunk or treat and with Mya's friends Jaxon and Adi in Lake Bluff. Mya loved trick or treating, she had to pick the candy out and carefully put it in her bag all by herself. That being said I wasn't surprised that Mya was very protective of her candy bag. When we got home I emptied it out into a ziploc and when she saw the candy was gone she was worried " oh no candy gone". Mya loved getting to be a lady bug and has since tried to get dressed in the costume again to go "trick or treating". I told her that Halloween was over and we will have to wait till next year, she just says "oh" I don't think she gets it! Next year will be cute though as she will remember all the fun from this year.

Jaxon, Mya and Daphne dressed up at dance class....smiles anyone?!

Mya jumping at dance class

Mya and Jaxon about to head out trick or treating! Again no smiles from Mya

Krolls Farm

2010-10-30T13:25:00.000-07:00

We were able to go to Krolls farm earlier this week. The kiddos had a blast with all the animals and exploring the pumpkin patch. We had a great time and I got a little carried away with the camera. Jaxon was just cooperating so well, Mya on the other hand was not. Regardless I got so many cute ones that it was hard to pick, but here are some of the pictures from our afternoon at the farm.

Mya smiling

Jaxon flirtin' with the camera

I love this one Jaxon is trying to get away from Aimie

Mya is telling on the goat for going so far from home

Mya telling the goat to "come back" to it's mommy, she was very concerned that the goat was going off on its own

Mya and Jaxon petting the cat

The goats loved Aimie, this one jumped right up on her leg

Mya pulling her pumpkins

Mya and Nana petting a chicken

Mya and Jaxon

Mya and Jaxon in the big wagon

Still in the wagon....thank goodness for bloomers!

"CHEESE" wow Mya is actually looking at the camera!

Mya and Nana feeding the "mommy" goats

We did it!

2010-10-25T07:08:00.000-07:00

Mya is potty trained! Well for the most part. She is excellent at home, in public however she is still iffy. Mya is so proud of herself every time she goes, and of course she has to do everything herself right down to flushing the toilet and saying "bye bye" to the pee pee! I know there will be many accidents still to come but she is doing great!

Mya in her undies with a few accessories

Mya reading on the potty!

Mya showing off her full potty chart!

The Field Museum

2010-10-23T12:25:00.000-07:00

The Field Museum of national history had a free day last week so we decided it was time to check it out. We had a good time even though we only got through about a 1/3 of it. 2 1/2 year olds are not particularly museum friendly! I hope to go back so we can explore the rest of it. The kids enjoyed the extensive animal collection and of course seeing SUE the dinosaur.

Mya & Nanna looking around the kids play corner

Mya & Jaxon going to town pushing buttons and identifying the noise

Mya in the percussion section of the kids corner- she wouldn't leave this drum alone!

Aimie & Jaxon playing frog shaped drums

The kiddos in front of SUE "roaring" like a dinosaur

We made a mask in the arts and craft section for kids

Mya digging up a fossil

Ft. Benning, Georgia

2010-09-29T12:31:00.000-07:00

The last few days Mya and I have been in Columbus Georgia, at Ft. Benning. My family went down to see my brother graduate from Infantry Boot Camp. We were all so proud of him and can't wait to see where he will be stationed. He has another three weeks of additional training (airborne) so he will also be qualified as a paratrooper. He passed up moving on to Army Ranger and Special Forces training so he could be sure to do this, but he hopes to enter SF training at some other time. Wow I can't believe my little brother is jumping out of air planes! We had a great time visiting and getting to learn some of what PVT Miles has been up to, lets just say better him than me! We got to explore the National Infantry Museum (NIM), which was very informative and impressive. The graduation ceremony was great to see. As the men marched up the field gun fire and smoke grenades were set off giving the effect of battle all as the announcer was talking about the Infantry through out history. Go Airborne. Hoo AH! (they say that alot!)

Mom and PVT Miles on family day!

Kambra, Rachel and Mya enjoying some of the NIM. Thank goodness Mya fell asleep shortly after this!

Introducing the families to a bit of the Infantry units procedure during the graduation ceremony

Some of the practice jumps for Airborne, this first one is 750 feet up. I guess they think they need practice before actually jumping out of a plane!

Rachel and I practiced shooting some of the Infantries weapons! My marksmanship skills were enough to qualify me for Infantry training!

Saying goodbye as PVT Miles reports in for Airborne training

We stopped by Barnes and Nobles for Taylor to get some books and Mya decided to relax and get some reading in!

Rachel, Kambra and Mom waiting to eat

After graduation we got in a pictures of all the Miles kiddos (however un-kid like we look)

Proud Momma and her baby boy at graduation

Marching in. Taylor is second from the bottom in the middle row

Attention!

Driving around in the car, Mya was so good the whole trip!

Who's really in charge here?

2010-09-18T20:48:00.000-07:00

Mya has become increasingly bossy. She has on repeated occasions told Dustin and I, in reference to our hand holding to "stop it" with her hand palm facing us, stretched out in our direction. She never cares to inform us as to why. The other day we were hugging and kissing in the kitchen and Mya squeezed in between us and said "no kissing, stop it" However once we picked her up and gave her attention too she was ok....well at least for the moment until Dustin and I tried to resume cuddling! She doesn't like to be left out of Mom and Dads attention, her new favorite words have got to be mom or dad look at me or watch this. The funny thing is she is honestly perturbed when you don't pay attention, she has become accustomed to a certain lifestyle!! Well at least to being the center of the family! Well what can I say she is adored!

Mya dressing up at the day care center at the gym we attend. When I went in to get her she said, look mommy and started twirling and flying around. She also asked that I take a picture of her

Mya enjoying a delicious cupcake

Our cowgirl riding her froggy with who else but Jesse along for the ride

Andee and Mya watching a show while the parents played a game!

Mya-isms #2

2010-09-03T12:13:00.000-07:00

Here are some more fun sayings from Mya. She is just talking up a storm...more so at home, elsewhere she gets a little shy!

Hold you- she switched from saying "come here" with her arms up to saying this (which is what most kids say)

Scared- with her hands wrapped around her body. She gets "scared" a lot mostly from loud noises or bugs

Watchashow- Mya's way of asking to watch one of the shows she likes

Big kid- Mya has switched from pointing out babies to pointing out big kids, she loves to follow bigger kids around and play with them. Big cheers for all those nice "big kids" on the playgrounds who include the little ones (we recently ran into some who where awesome with Mya. I was so grateful, I actually got a break and could just watch) When saying bye she just said "thanks playing " "bye kid".

Ouchie/hurt- Mya kept getting "hurt" and needed bandaids and medicine (antibiotic ointment) we had to teach her that not all ouchies needed bandaids!

Later- She has caught on to how I put off things hoping she will forget, the other day she got in our cabinets and found M&Ms, I told her no and she said "Ok later" nodding her head at me like YES we are going to have these later.

Go UT or/& Hook em Horns- we have been teaching her this for awhile in preparation for football season, however now whenever she sees football she shouts this out while also trying to do the longhorn symbol with her hand. We are going to try and get it on video soon!

Mya chowing down on a hot dog from FIVE GUYS! We were excited when they got on near us. About 18 months ago we didn't have any, now we have 3 within 20 minutes!

Focused on coloring at FIVE GUYS

Happy as can be with a yummy cupcake at her friend J.J.'s birthday!

Mya saying she is scared when she heard a lawn mower start up near by.

Chicago Air and Water Show!

2010-08-20T11:37:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we went to the Chicago air and water show. It also happened to be the hottest and most humid weekend of the summer! Despite the heat we had a great time. The Navy's Blue Angels were particularly amazing, just as I remember from when I was little. The loud noises from the Jets kept scaring Mya but she still thought the airplanes were neat. It was cool seeing them come in over the city (over the sky scrapers) and then fly their routines over Lake Michigan! Afterwards talking with Mya she told me the "airplane noise scared" then tilted her head nodding as if to say BUT "airplanes cool".

Parachuter from one of the planes. It made me think of my brother Taylor who is starting paratrooper training soon in the Army. Go Army!

Mya & Andee (we went with our friends the Matthews) Mya loved following Andee around since her being 6 months older made Andee a big kid!

Dustin & Me (I was so tired, I had gotten up early to run in a fundraiser 5K for a little girl in our ward who is going through chemo.... We love you Ashton!)

Mya & Mommy

The Blue Angels

The kiddos getting some yummy turkey leg from Dustin. I LOVE food from events like this. We also got some roasted corn!

The Blue Angels, wow their formations were so tight. By far better than any other group!

At the Beach

2010-08-14T17:39:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we went to a beach, on Lake Michigan, just over the boarder in Kenosha Wisconsin. The weather was great and the water wasn't as cold as we thought it might be so we were happy! The kiddos had a great time especially playing in the sand!

Dustin looking for sea glass

Love is in the air..well at least in the sand!

Mya crawling around in wet sand

Mya & Jaxon covered in wet sand because we kept trying to rinse them off but they would just get covered again!

Good Hugs, wow looks like Jaxon is getting a little handsy! We all got a kick out of how this looks like Jaxon is grabbing Mya's bum!

Lounging in the sand

Daddy & Mya playing in the water

Mya waiting for the next wave...she LOVES the water!

Dancing Girl

2010-08-07T09:23:00.000-07:00

We have been trying to post this video since Nana's visit with us and it finally is working.

Photos from July

2010-08-03T12:06:00.000-07:00

We have had a fun month, I can't believe the summer is almost over and school is just around the corner...of course Dustin never really got a break but it was nice to have the summer feeling in the air anyway! I have been pretty bad about taking pictures but here are a few.

Mya decided to dress up but instead of stopping at one costume she insisted on putting on the lady bug outfit & the cowgirl too!

One evening we got to visit our friends the Matthews who just started their residency closer to downtown chicago. While there Mya and Andee decided to dress up and for some reason kept giving their wands kisses! Don't you love little girls!

Mya at her swim lessons,here they are about to sing some songs! The kids had just started going in the water with only their teachers. While most of the kids had issues with that, Mya was like see ya later mom!

We had to get another trip to the zoo in before our pass expired! Luckily the newly renovated dolphin show was finally done! The kids had a blast. Mya cried when it was done and once outside she pointed inside and said " More show, more dolphins" so cute! Thanks Jaxon and Aimie for making it a great trip!

One of the dolphins going across the water

Mya dressing up!

Mya and Jaxon watching the dolphins, don't you love the open mouth expressions!

Mya-isms!

2010-07-16T11:20:00.000-07:00

Mya says some pretty cute stuff. Here is a list of some of my favorite sayings of hers. Although nothing is as cute as hearing it from her mouth!

Thank you welcome- she says them together instead of one or the other

OopsyDaisy

Be back- when she wants me to stay where I am but for her to go get something

Gotcha

There you are- when she finds something she is looking for (When looking she puts her hand above her eyes like she is shading them against the sun

Come Here- with hand beckoning us, she also says this when she wants us to come over and pick her up

Carefull don't fall- she even said that to her crayons yesterday that were rolling off the table

I or oops sorry, OK?- She will say that even if she barely bumps into you, she says it to inanimate objects as well such as if she runs her stroller into a wall

Mommy Baby or Mommy Baby Daddy- she says this whenever she sees things that are similar but one is smaller than the other. Sometimes even if they are the same size she likes to make it a family. Seriously though everything even when we saw a group of planes flying in the sky

O (a gasp) Listen! noise!(as she is putting her hand behind her ear to help her hear)- She does this whenever she hears loud or odd noises, her face gets really excited about it too

Oh no what did you do? (with her hands out as if to say what is going on or with her hands on her cheeks)

Well I am sure I will come up with more later but that is all I can think of right now! I need to get it on video because hearing it from her voice is adorable.

Kansas City!

2010-07-07T12:54:00.000-07:00

Over the Weekend we flew to Kansas City to visit Dustin's Grandparents, Aunt Cindi, and cousin Emily. Mya did great on the plane and really had fun with the whole experience. It is amazing to see how different flying with her was vs. the last time back in November 09. We had a great time with the family. We were able to visit and of course play we even squeezed in a birthday celebration for Dustin's 27th birthday which included some amazing Red Velvet cake!

Dustin & Mya blowing out the candles

Mya looking at a new book with cousin Emily and GGMA looking on

Mya on an old phone, making phone calls is one of her favorite things to do!

Mya thought these socks were so cool and had to put them on, here Great Grandpa (GGPA) is trying to help pull them up

Great Grandma (GGMA), Mya and I admiring her socks

The three of us trying to put the socks on

Nana's visit!

2010-07-02T11:45:00.000-07:00

Mya's Nana (My mom) came to visit last week and couldn't get enough of our little Mya. We enjoyed spending time playing, going to the Zoo and eating at Nana's favorite place Wildberry. Dad and Mom even got to go on a date while Nana stayed with Mya (thank you!) Mya loved having Nana here and even though she has truly entered the realm of a two year old she managed to show Nana how sweet she can be!

Mya & Nana sitting together at Wildberry

Mya & Nana playing dress up in her room

Cuddling their babies, Mya had to have hers exactly how Nana did

Daddy giving Mya a ride at the Zoo

Mya showing how she can growl like a tiger

Mya laughing at Nana on the way to the airport

Mya & Nana getting warm after swimming

Mya & Nana at the Zoo

Pop Pop & Grandma's Visit!

2010-06-08T08:10:00.000-07:00

Mya's grandparents visited last week (Dustin's parents). We had a blast taking a tour of Chicago, hitting the zoo, eating delicious deep dish pizza and just enjoying each others company. Mya couldn't get enough of her Pop Pop and Gramma, she thought they were hysterical and loved all the attention. Here are some pictures from the trip!

Thats our girl! Wow nothing left to say!

Pop Pop & Mya reading before bed

We didn't have much time before their flight so we decided to fly the kite in our parking lot! It sure was funny watching them attempt to get the kite going.

Pop Pop & Mya at the zoo. Good smiling Mya!

Mya hanging out with the Kangaroo

Mya watching the Polar Bear right before....

He did this! She ran into my arms and was watching him with her mouth open

The family squinting into the sun at Buckingham fountain in Chicago

Riding the Motor Safari at the Zoo with Gramma, Mya and Mommy

Love this one! Daddy & Mya walking along a wall at Millenium Park in Chicago

Happy Birthday Mya! 51908

2010-05-25T18:50:00.000-07:00

Mya is two! I can't believe my baby girl isn't really a baby anymore. I am grateful for her in our lives everyday, even when she in on my last nerve! For her birthday we had friends over for dinner and cake. Mya enjoyed spending time with her buddy Jaxon, going to the park, opening presents and of course eating cake! The adults had a good evening as well since the kids decided to let us play a game while they watched a recent favorite, 101 Dalmatians.

Mya admiring her cake!

Mya and Jaxon enjoying their fruit snacks

Mya wearing some of her gifts as she opens others!

Mya wearing/holding some gifts!

Mya and Jaxon at the park

Mya and her daddy swinging together!

Mya enjoying the cake

Mya grabbing the cookie of the cake

Recent Photos

2010-05-10T11:54:00.000-07:00

It has been awhile since I have posted anything so here are some recent pictures!

Mya blowing bubbles outside our place

More bubbles!

Adi, Jaxon & Mya at Jaxon's 2nd Birthday

Mya after her first experience playing with the sand & water!

Aimie, Jaxon & Mya at the petting zoo!

Mya in the dentist chair. She was fine and didn't even cry during the actual check up, what you see here is her reaction to having to get off the slide in the waiting room!

More bubbles, one of Mya's favorite things!

Easter

2010-04-09T10:22:00.000-07:00

We had a lovely easter holiday this year. First Mya attended an easter egg hunt party with some of her little friends. They colored some easter pictures, went on a egg hunt, and had some yummy cupcakes before checking out what was in the eggs. Mya didn't focus well on finding the eggs, she kept telling me that she could hear birds and a doggie! However we were able to get her to find a few eggs. Mya had a blast and was talking about it for days after (thank you Aimie!). On easter day Mya found her basket by following little clues...it sorta worked, in hindsight we should have let her wake up more and eat first! Later on that day the Zimmer's came over for a delicious meal and to watch the second session of conference. I enjoy conference and love hearing from the prophet and apostles however this year Mya was more of a distraction and made it difficult to focus! All around though we had a great weekend!

Mya blowing bubbles

Andee, Jaxon, Carter and Mya after the egg hunt

Mya and Jaxon blowing bubbles on easter

Mya's first hair do! I have yet to get them in her hair again without her pulling then out!

Andee, Jaxon, Carter and Mya after the egg hunt

Mya finding an egg

Mya finding some easter goodies!

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

2010-04-06T08:46:00.000-07:00

For our last weekend in Tennessee we drove up to Gettysburg. Dustin served his mission in that area and actually in Gettysburg too! It was fun to see several of the places he served and lived not to mention he made an excellent tour guide. We were able to see the historic area and do a tour of the battlefield. We bought a CD for the car tour (the battlegrounds are so expansive you need some sort of transportation) and were grateful that Mya slept for about 3 hours of the 4 hour tour. It was fascinating to see the battlegrounds and hear the battle stories. Still it is hard to imagine just how crazy (and horrific) those three days would have been. Here are some pictures of the trip.

Dustin took this picture on his mission and it was still hanging up at the ice cream shop in downtown Gettysburg

Mya climbing the stairs of one of the many monuments on the battlefields

We were trying to get a picture of us in front of the sign but Mya threw a fit and decided to act like a penguin instead

Mya and I with Abe in front of the visitors center

Mya was in stuffed animal heaven (three levels worth) at the huge Boyd's Bear store there in Gettysburg. It took awhile to pick out just one bear to take home!

Mya at one of the battle locations

A view from a canon. They actually have canons set up where they were during the battles

Mya playing on the porch of a store in downtown Gettysburg

Savannah Georgia

2010-04-02T18:29:00.000-07:00

The first weekend we were in Tennessee we drove the 6 1/2 hours down to Savannah, Georgia to meet up with my sister's family who are currently living in Gainesville, Florida. We had such a blast it was great to talk with Rachel and Bert and see how the kids have grown. Mya couldn't have been more thrilled with the situation, she adores her cousins Zoe (8) and Ian (7, well in 26 days!). Savannah is a beautiful town, with amazing town squares, churches, architecture, and scenery. I loved seeing all the history around us and enjoyed all the stories the plaques placed around the city shared. Some of those houses have been around since before the civil war! While there we had to drop in at Paula Dean's restaurant, The Lady and Sons, to check it out. It was Delicious, enough said! We were also able to check out some of the cities historic cemeteries which were amazing and strangely beautiful. Unfortunately we only had the weekend and it ended all too soon. Mya misses her cousins. She couldn't get enough of playing with them and trying to copy their every move. We love you guys! Here is a slide show of some pictures, soundtrack provided by one of Mya's favorite groups!

We're Home!

2010-03-28T16:05:00.000-07:00

We arrived home early saturday morning from Dustin's first externship in Tennessee. We had a great time and we're grateful that Mya and I could go with him this month. While in Tennessee we took two side trips to Savannah, GA and Gettysburg, PA. Each was a blast but unfortunately too short as we only had the weekend. I have a few pictures from Tennessee and will post some from the two trips a bit later. Meanwhile it is wonderful to be home and the weather has improved vastly since we left in February!

Mya and Daddy both saying CHEESE on the steps at Bristol

An amazing BBQ place we found just out of the city

Mya climbing up the steps at the Bristol race track

About 3/4 of the Bristol track. Even though we are not into nascar or indy racing the track was pretty impressive. You couldn't help but notice a feeling of excitement as some big races were the following week!

Mya climbed up into the cupboards to get a little snack!

Mya reading her book on the couch in our Loft there in Kingsport, TN. We were near some train tracks and every time she would hear them she would say choo choo and run to me for protection! I thought she might get used to it but she still gets anxious around loud noises.

Mya loving some ice cream, in her OWN cup of course!

Mya going down the slide all by herself!

Chatting

2010-02-05T11:53:00.000-08:00

Here is a video of Mya chatting on the phone. I was excited that she actually let me tape her, I am sure you can relate to the frustration of actually getting what you want on tape! However I still ran into difficulties as she wanted to sit right next to me the whole time, with that in mind I apologize for all the movement. I have to say our little girl has the gift of gab!

2010-02-02T12:18:00.001-08:00

Here are some recent pics I haven't gotten around to posting before now~

I love in this one how Mya is worked up and Jaxon is cute and posing for the picture

Mya walked out into the snow and than realized she was stuck!

Mya loves pushing around her babies in there stroller, this day she decided that they need to be covered with her blanket. When I asked her why she signed/spoke sleep, baby. She must have noticed how all the baby carriers around here are covered with a blanket!

Mya loves finger painting, here she is celebrating her messiness!

Here she is smiling at what she drew. I asked her what she was painting and she said "Daddy" and than babbled some more but unfortunately I couldn't understand her! I so wish I could!

Kumas Corner & Chuck-e-Cheese

2010-01-27T19:49:00.000-08:00

We hit another delicious place downtown in Chicago. Kumas Corner is a heavy metal bar and grill (more bar than grill but don't tell the food that!) that's know for its amazing hamburgers and loud heavy metal music. I wouldn't suggest taking the kiddos anytime after lunch, actually they don't even allow minors after ten! Regardless it was awesome. All the hamburgers are named after heavy metal groups, Dustin ordered the Pantara and I ordered the Iron Maiden. We also got the pork fries which I could have eaten as my meal, think waffle fries, house BBQ, pulled pork and cheesy goodness! The kids did great even though it was really crowded and I got the impression that children aren't often customers there; but it got us seated in a third of the time so I am not complaining (We got the distinct impression the hostess wanted to get us in and out fast!) We also hit Chuck-e-Cheese to let the kids have some fun out of the freezingness (not I word I know) Despite my reservations about Chuck-e-Cheese being dumb arcade games and just plain dirty I was pleasantly surprised. The kids had a great time and I was impressed with the cleanliness and variety of activities for even Mya's age.

The amazing pork fries

The TV screen view of Mya and Jaxon on a ride

Mya on a pony ride, YEAH for our brave girl!

Hot Dougs!

2010-01-19T11:41:00.000-08:00

We have decided we needed to be more adventurous and when we see something that would be a fun experience to just do it! With that attitude we visited a delicious hot dog place in down town Chicago (we had heard about it a while ago but of course never got around to it until Aimie saw it mentioned in a magazine recently) with the Zimmer's. The are know for their duck fat fries (fries cooked in duck fat) and there variety of meats such as bison and antelope. We were able to try the antelope sausage which was delicious actually and did a taste test with the regular fries vs. duck fat fries. Let me tell you the duck fat fries are amazing, there really is no comparison! Even though we waited out in the cold for almost an hour it was worth it! The kiddos were so patient and Mya couldn't get enough of the fries or the music for that matter. She was dancing up a storm while covered in ketchup! Thank you Aimie for the pictures, I of course forgot the camera yet again!

Mya and Jaxon waiting in line

Hot Doug's motto: There are no two finer words in the English language than, 'encased meats,' my friend.

Our feast, which also included some great polish sausage

The Line!

Christmas Vacation

2010-01-03T18:13:00.001-08:00

We had a great Christmas vacation this year visiting both sides of the family hitting Austin and Dallas as well as Kansas City on the drive back up to Chicago. We had Christmas day with Nanna and the Allen family (my sister's). Mya had a great time opening gifts and insisted on helping you open yours! She loved spending time with her cousin Kaleigh and hearing them laugh together was a delight. In Dallas Mya got to practice her gift opening skills again and loved imitating Lizzy (the family dog). However brief we got to spend a day with Great Grandparents, Great Aunt Cindi and cousin Emily in Kansas City (Dustin's side). The entire trip was long but full of great fun, great company and of course great food. We loved visiting with everyone and having our holiday's with the ones we love!

Mya opening her stocking

Mya opening her "little people" doll house

Grandpa bouncing her on her new ball, when he would stop she

would run up to him and sign "more please"!

Giving Great Grandma a high five!

Receiving art instructions from Kaleigh; shortly after this

I asked her if she was dirty and she matter of factly said "NO"

Opening her new bracelet

Spinning her musical top

With Nanna on the swing

All by myself! Look at that concentration!

Happy St. Nicholas Day!

2009-12-06T18:19:00.000-08:00

Wow I can't believe it is already December 6th! We had a great St.Nicholas day with Mya putting out her shoes the night before. (see last years blog for explanation) We didn't get to open the gifts till after her nap as we have church at 9 and by the end she is in no great mood! But once she woke up we showed her her gifts and she had a blast checking out the baby doll and the bottles. Dustin also got a little surprise....a new pillow! His old one needed to be retired!

Mya finding her gift under the tree

St.Nicholas's gift for Mya

Mya wrapping the doll up in her blanket

Mya cuddling the doll with that just woke up look

Giving dolly kisses

Thanksgiving!

2009-12-02T19:26:00.000-08:00

We had a fantastic time on our quick trip to Utah. We loved getting to visit with Morgan (Dustin's brother) and Melissa (known as a couple as M&M) as well as Mom and Dad. We even celebrated Christmas for M&M because they won't be coming to Texas this year. We had a great time hanging out and visiting some of our favorite places including Sundance. And of course we ate our fill of Cafe Rio while we were there! Most of all we just loving being with family when we get a chance!

The three of us at Sundance

Dad and Morgan got each other the same book!

Mya testing out the snow

Don't really know what was going on here!

Dad playing with the camera while waiting in the car

An evening with Bill

2009-11-16T11:08:00.000-08:00

Dustin got us tickets to see Bill Cosby for my Birthday as he is my favorite comedian. We had a great time and laughed so much our faces hurt afterwards! It was exciting for me because I have been wanting to see Bill for so long and didn't know if I would ever get the chance, lucky for me I have such a thoughtful husband!

The Marquee

Us waiting in our seats!

A visit from the girls!

2009-11-14T11:58:00.001-08:00

For the last two weeks Nana (My mom) has been visiting. During this time my sisters took the opportunity to come visit as well for a few days and check out the city. We went to the Brookfield Zoo, the Museum of Science and Industry and took a train ride downtown to take a bus tour of the city. We had a great time and enjoyed each other's company. I loved getting to see my sisters and of course my mom! Mya had a blast with all the extra attention and the many trips to the park!

Mya thinking about the new born chicks at the MSI

Mya wearing Nana's hat at the park

Mya up close and personal with the Lioness

Mom, Kambra, Rachel and I next to the Bean. Dustin decided that an artsy picture was in order!

Mya grabbing a snack on the train coming home from Chicago

Kambra, Rachel, Mom, Dustin and a sleeping Mya in Downtown Chicago

Below: Mom and Kambra on our tour bus

Children's Museum

2009-11-05T08:46:00.001-08:00

Yesterday we went to the Children's museum. Mya had a blast, especially in the music and water stations. I had a proud moment when Mya stood up to a bigger kid trying to take her drum mallet, usually Mya is timid when it comes to confrontation. Mya had shared one mallet with the girl but when she tried to take the second one from Mya she pulled it away and shook her head saying "no, no, no". I was so excited, not to mention it was pretty cute!

Mya drumming away

More drumming (like daddy like daughter)

Water fun

Driving Nanna

Happy Halloween!

2009-11-01T16:49:00.000-08:00

Here are a few pics of Mya and her parade of costumes! Ultimately she decided she had to be the pirate (with a sword and everything) AND the monkey.

Monkey with cupcake all over her face

Daddy and his little pirate

Pumpkin carving

Penguin surprise

A Conversation with Mya

2009-10-28T08:05:00.000-07:00

Mya loves to tell you all she is thinking! She went on for a long time after this but unfortunately the video camera died.

Krolls Farm

2009-10-22T08:04:00.001-07:00

We visited Krolls farm yesterday with Mya's friend Jaxon. The kids had such a good time with the animals, especially the baby goats. Mya tends to be a scaredy cat so was glad there was only one time she came to me for protection!

Mya getting her hands on one of the baby goats

Mya excited by some of the animals

Mya and Jaxon chasing the baby goats

Mya and Jaxon checking out the VERY pregnant donkey (she was due anytime now)

Mya trying to grab her favorite of the baby goats

Mya giving the baby goat some love

Mya and the lamie (that's what she calls her stuffed animal lamb)

Mya went and sat under this tree and then kept signing to me that she was "all done"! I took it as time to go home!

Think inside the box?!

2009-09-29T10:51:00.000-07:00

I was secretly watching Mya play in this cube for several minutes before I thought to grab a picture and of course she started to get out as I was taking it. I still thought it was pretty funny. She barely fits in the cube yet she was curled up in there playing with a toy! She loves any kind of space she can squeeze herself into.

Pictures at Independence Grove!

2009-09-19T08:22:00.000-07:00

At the beginning of the summer I made this top and bow to take some pictures of Mya in.......Well now it is September and we are just getting to it! Here are some of the pictures we liked best.

Happy Anniversary!

2009-08-24T19:11:00.000-07:00

August 18th was our fourth anniversary! Life has brought many blessings and we are grateful to have each other and our beautiful little girl!

An engagement photo taken at Sundance in Utah

Our darling girl getting ready for church

Weekend camping!

2009-08-19T19:19:00.000-07:00

We had a blast this weekend camping at the Chain of Lakes park in northern Illinois. It got pretty hot but we still had a fun time. It was great to watch Mya and her buddy Jaxon play together. They got to play in the dirt really for the first time but I am sure it won't be the last. Both kiddos went to sleep nicely so us parents got to enjoy the evening playing games. All in all the weekend went well except the raccoons managed to eat our skittles and starbursts! Luckily that was all we left out because I could have sworn they had us surrounded by all the ruckus they were making!

Mya eating chips with her cheesy grin

Mya & Jaxon investigating the bike

Mya & Jaxon then Jaxon comforting Mya when she had had enough!

Mya LOVING the rocks and dirt

Hotter than Hell!

2009-08-10T17:10:00.000-07:00

Wow, Texas was hot! It was over a hundred everyday we were there and around 80% humidity. We have gotten spoiled with the mild summers up here. Even with the extreme heat we had a great time visiting with our families. I flew to Austin and then meet up with Dustin a few days later in Dallas. Mya did well traveling, first on the plane and than on the drive back up to Illinois. It was nice to spend time with our loved ones and relax while taking a break from the everyday!

Mya cuddling with Nanna

Mya reading with Grandpa

Mya and Lizzie debating if they should brave the heat, they became great friends during the visit, well at least Mya thinks so!

Mya eating Nanna's glasses

Cousin Kaleigh playing with the bubbles

Mya and Kaleigh with their Build-a-Bear owls

Mya wouldn't let hers go!

Aunt Kambra and Uncle Taylor (My sister and brother) on the Zilker park train

Mya and Nanna on the train too

Kaleigh pushing Mya, she couldn't get enough of this and now that we are back home she expects me to do it!

Our little turkey!

2009-07-20T17:24:00.000-07:00

Mya babbles like this for hours each day. We think it sounds like she is saying gobble, gobble, gobble; like a turkey. I can't wait till I can actually understand what she is saying to us! We get a kick out of this every time she goes off.

Born on the Fourth of July!

2009-07-05T17:53:00.000-07:00

Happy 26th Birthday Dustin! We took it easy for Dustin's birthday but did make it out for a delicious dinner at P.F. Chang's. Then later we met up with our friends to watch some fireworks at the naval base. Mya was at first a little scared of the fireworks but once she got used to them she was pointing to them and clapping. She even started signing "more" when there was a pause in the display! Even though it took us an hour to get off the base after the show we had a great time!

Dustin, Mya & Jaxon playing before the fireworks

Mya playing around before the show!

Mya and Me watching the fireworks

Havin' her cake and eating it too

(Yes I know the cake is stunning!?! Well at least it tasted good!)

Off to the Zoo!

2009-07-04T10:03:00.001-07:00

Yesterday we decided to go to the Brookfield Zoo, which is in Chicago. It was great getting to have fun and relax now that Dustin has finished Boards! YEAH! We had a great time and Mya was excited to see all the animals. When it came to the petting zoo however she was a little hesitant, being next to them was fine but she didn't seem to fond of touching them!

Mya almost petting the goat

Mya and Jaxon watching the Sea Lion

Mya growling like the Bear

Mya and Jaxon watching the Dolphin

Mya and the Giraffes

Summerfest!

2009-07-03T07:38:00.000-07:00

We had a blast at the Summerfest concert this past week. It is an eleven day music festival in Milwaukee. We were able to see the Barenaked Ladies (Dustin wanted me to clarify the BAND not actual naked ladies) and Rusted Root. Both bands were amazing and we had a great time rockin to the music (well at least I did! Dustin doesn't dance!). Mya did so well, especially since both the bands didn't go on until 10pm. She even slept through most of it!

Listenin' to the music

Taking some time to play at one of the areas for kids

Mya sleeping during Rusted Root!

Our little Jedi

Mya and I in front of the giant set of drums!

Oops!

2009-06-22T10:52:00.000-07:00

We went on a bike ride this weekend and had a great time the area was really beautiful. However the night before we had a huge rain storm and the path had tons of water on it. Most of it wasn't too deep but Dustin didn't look closely before going for it through this particular puddle!

New Things

2009-06-21T16:49:00.000-07:00

1: This is Mya's new favorite sleeping position. Even when we roll her over she goes right back!

2: Mya started making this face, we don't know why but it is cute!

3&4: Nana gave us this toy for Christmas but I am just now getting it out so it is new to Mya. She loves watching the balls fly out of the chute and then tries to catch them.

Grandma & Grandpa visit!

2009-05-31T10:50:00.000-07:00

Mya has had such a treat getting to see all her Grandparents. After my Mom left Dustin's parents were able to visit and they brought Mya's Great Grandparents as well! It was terrific getting to catch up and having them see where we live. And of course Mya loved having so many people around who adore her! We had a combined celebration for Mya and Great Grandpa who was turning 79. Dustin, Grandpa, and Great Grandpa were able to attend a Brewers game and they happened to be playing the Cardinals who are Great Grandpa's favorite team!

Nana's Visit!

2009-05-29T19:21:00.000-07:00

My mother, Nana, was able to visit last week. We enjoyed spending time together and Mya loves all the attention. The week went by all too fast and now have to wait for the next visit! We miss you Nana!

Mya's 1st Birthday!

2009-05-20T20:00:00.000-07:00

Mya had her first birthday yesterday. I can't believe our little girl is now a year old. We had a little party and Nana (visiting from Texas) and her friend Jaxon were able to come! She had fun opening gifts and eating cake. She didn't get as messy eating the cake as we hoped but she sure enjoyed it. This year has been full of fun and changes for all of us. Mya has been such a blessing and has brought our family increased joy and love. We adore watching her grow and can't wait for the years to come.

Mya's favorite things

2009-05-13T19:52:00.001-07:00

1.) Mya lounging with her daddy, she ADORES her daddy.

2.) Mya standing with her rocking chair, she prefers to stand with it instead of sitting in it.

3.) Mya rolling around on the floor before bed, she loves to wind down this way.

4.) Mya recently found the doors to our T.V. unit and she enjoys opening and closing them.

5.) And of course eating, she loves to eat (I wonder where she got that from?!) Even if she just ate when she sees us eating she has to try it out! I hope she keeps up being such a good eater.

Dustin*Jessye*Mya*Tessa

Since the new year...

Christmas in Chicago

St. Nicholas Day

Thanksgiving with the Hoopes family

Daddy Daughter Date Night

Trick or Treat

County Line Farm

Fire Station

fun at home

August flew by!

Pictures of Tessa

Pictures with Tessa

Tessa Jo

Visit from Gramma & Pop Pop

Gymnastics

Congratulations Dr. Lloyd...You did it!

Mya turns 3!

Easter

Match Day!

Baby Sister for Mya!

Blizzard

Old videos!

Texas!

Christmas in New York

More Mya-isms!

Happy St. Nicholas Day!

Hoopes family visit!

Mya's teaching moment

Sick girl

Pop Pop & Gramma

Thank You Nana!

HALLOWEEN

Krolls Farm

We did it!

The Field Museum

Ft. Benning, Georgia

Who's really in charge here?

Mya-isms #2

Chicago Air and Water Show!

At the Beach

Dancing Girl

Photos from July

Mya-isms!

Kansas City!

Nana's visit!

Pop Pop & Grandma's Visit!

Happy Birthday Mya! 5*19*08

Recent Photos

Easter

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

Savannah Georgia

We're Home!

Chatting

Kumas Corner & Chuck-e-Cheese

Hot Dougs!

Christmas Vacation

Happy St. Nicholas Day!

Thanksgiving!

An evening with Bill

A visit from the girls!

Children's Museum

Happy Halloween!

A Conversation with Mya

Krolls Farm

Think inside the box?!

Pictures at Independence Grove!

Happy Anniversary!

Weekend camping!

Hotter than Hell!

Our little turkey!

Born on the Fourth of July!

Off to the Zoo!

Summerfest!

Oops!

New Things

Grandma & Grandpa visit!

Nana's Visit!

Mya's 1st Birthday!

Mya's favorite things

DustinJessyeMya*Tessa

Happy Birthday Mya! 51908