The Leddy Family

Happy Valentine's Day!

2012-02-14T15:56:00.000-06:00

Dad's 750th!

2012-02-14T15:41:00.005-06:00

Last weekend my Dad hit a milestone- he announced his 750th game for Murray State! And it just happened to be against Austin Peay (oh how I love to beat them). So we made a trip to Murray to be there to celebrate with him. The Racers are having an AMAZING year and the arena was sold out! In all my years as a Racer fan, I have never seen this kind of excitement. I had to sit in the upper deck! But it was worth it. They gave Dad a really nice plaque and the whole arena gave him a standing ovation. It was really touching to see how much they love him. We had many friends in town to celebrate as well and we capped a huge Racer win with a trip to the Apple. It was a happy happy weekend!

Receiving his plaque from the AD
Look at those Racer fans on their feet!

So proud

The best fam shot we could get

Me and my girl

Ben, Emma Kate, Belinda and Morgan

RoRo and Morgan

Packe and Morgan

Me, Morgan, Dad and Mom

Ben, Belinda, Me, Jeff, Mom and Dad

Alex, Belinda, Lauren, Me, Mom and Nicki

Should we hang it in the Apple?

Emma Kate helping Dad make waffles- oops, I mean square pancakes

Emma Kate read us a story

And then again to Morgan

A Sad Day

2012-02-09T16:19:00.003-06:00

Last weekend we lost Jeff's Granny. She was a wonderful woman and she loved my husband so very much. She was always up for a good time and I truly admired her for that. I hope that at her age I am still celebrating like she did! And she loved her Morgan Rose as well. Up until the end she was bragging on her to all of her friends. The visitation and the funeral were in Canton. The mass was held at the church in Canton where Granny Katie was married as well as Sam and Sissy. I had never been there and it was beautiful. The service was really touching and I was proud that Morgan made it through the entire thing. She even provided some smiles when after the first hymn she clapped and said, "Yay!" It really was cute and I think even Granny smiled. After a trip to the cemetery we returned to the church where the ladies had prepared food for the family and close friends. It was incredibly kind of them to do so. It was a sad day, but Granny was beautiful and was buried in the dress she wore to our wedding. I know that I will always cherish the rings I wear on my left hand that she wore for so many years before. We will always love you Granny.

Morgan and Granny's first picture
My favorite picture- so sweet!

At her birthday in November

Sharing her cake with Morgan!

Lacey and Morgan after the service.

Baby Jay!

2012-02-09T16:15:00.003-06:00

The other weekend Courtney, Josh and Baby Jay Gianola came for a visit. Sadly, Elle stayed home and played with her Grandma. Courtney had a conference in Tupelo and so the crew came to stay with us. It was our first time to meet Baby Jay and he was such a doll! Morgan could not get enough and wanted to do EVERYTHING with him! Poor thing probably thinks he has two big sisters now! We had a great time getting to visit. These boys don't get to see each other enough!

Morgan got to hold Jay!

Starkville Playtime

2012-01-26T11:22:00.003-06:00

Yesterday Morgan and I went to Starkville (or "ississippi" as she calls it) to see Carrie. She's got a very busy last semester of school so we met her for lunch. Michelle joined us too! My favorite part of the day was when we first drove onto campus. Morgan has been asking to go to "ississippi" for some time now. When she first saw the football stadium she flipped out! She was screaming from the back seat in pure joy. Do you have any idea how proud Jeff was when I told him? It was priceless. So we had lunch and then headed to campus to visit Avent and grab a cookie at the bakery. A perfect day! We stayed in town to watch the dawgs play (and beat!) LSU in basketball and Morgan loved it too. She did really well. We had so much fun I hardly took any pics. This was all I got!

Yummy cookies
Go Bulldogs!

Morgan's First Haircut!

2012-01-18T15:29:00.004-06:00

We had a huge milestone this morning- Morgan got her first haircut! It was about time to just even out the ends so her hair could really start growing pretty. It made me sad to be cutting off her sweet baby hair, but it was needed. Claire was really sweet to Morgan and made it special for her. She chose to sit in the fire truck chair, but wouldn't wear the cape. So we had to brush her hair off! Oh well! Morgan was nervous and unsure at first, but in the end she enjoyed it. Especially the sucker at the end that Claire gave her! My sweet baby is quickly growing up!

"What are you doing?"
There it goes!

Sitting still

Finally enjoying it

Big girl!

A Quick Trip to Dexter

2012-01-18T15:04:00.005-06:00

Morgan and I were having some Emma Kate withdrawals so we hopped in the car and headed north! Ben and I passed each other on the highway (seriously, mile marker 37) as he headed to Mississippi to go hunting. We enjoyed a fun-filled weekend with Belinda and Emma Kate! We got there Friday and played at the house all night. Saturday we got up and headed to a birthday party where Morgan had a ball! She got to play with the big kids and loved every second of it. After a Target trip, we headed home to eat pizza and watch Miss America. The cousins came too! Sadly, we had to head home on Sunday and Morgan slept the WHOLE WAY HOME! Needless to say, fun was had by all!

Scooting around the house
Sweet girls

At the birthday party the girls rode the train...

... and the elephants...

... and the swings!

Morgan loves Emma Kate's jewelry

Emma Kate made us cupcakes!

Watching the pageant inspired us to dress up like princesses too

Emma Kate and me

So after the cousins got there, they were ready for more scooting around the house. They would all pile on and someone would push. Belinda, Rose and I would just sit and watch. I haven't laughed that hard in a long time!

Then it was Morgan's turn to push

After that Morgan wouldn't ride, she would just run after the girls squealing in delight!

Belinda would video tape it and watching it back was truly the funniest. thing. ever!

Sunday the girls bundled up and headed outside to play

More swinging!

Happy girl!

A New Beginning...

2012-01-18T15:01:00.003-06:00

So a quick update on me... I have a new job! I just accepted a part-time job at Healthworks. And yes, my official title is "Captain of the Universe" no joke! I'll be working with the groups of kids that come to Healthworks and make sure they have fun, behave and actually learn a little something before they leave. I'm very excited to be working there and looking forward to a new challenge. I must admit, I'm a little nervous too- change is always scary. But here we go!

Chi O Christmas

2012-01-18T14:55:00.003-06:00

The other weekend I met up with all my Chi O girls in Memphis to celebrate our Christmas together. It was another great time together! Christina and Meredith graciously opened their home to us and we took over! After leaving Morgan at home with Jeff, I headed to join the girls. We didn't do much of anything and it was fabulous! After a day of shopping, Christina made us some soup and we put on our pajamas and caught up talking all night long. It was perfect! I miss them so much that it makes me really appreciate the times we do have together. Till next time ladies...

Yes, the only picture I took! Anna and Claudia took a break from shopping to read!

2012... Here We Come!

2012-01-02T14:53:00.003-06:00

We stayed in Nashville to celebrate the new year. Lauren and Hollis stayed to join us and we had a blast! After a lazy day of lunch and walking around downtown Franklin, we got ready for a night out. We met Anna and Wayne for dinner at a steakhouse that didn't have steak. (Yes, they had run out of most of their cuts- weird.) After we were full we made our way to Broadway and found so many people! They closed down a few block of Broadway and had a huge stage by the river for some bands. We stood in line for a while and finally made our way into The Stage. We were lucky to make it in there with a drink before midnight! So we decided to stay put and danced to a fun band until our feet hurt. After an eventful trip to the hotel (Lauren was physically pushed out of the way for a cab and it got real) we called it a night. We had such a great weekend! Good friends, fun and a bulldog win... who could ask for more? A big thank you to Sissy who kept Morgan for us all weekend. I don't know who was more tired- her, Morgan or us! Big fun for all!

Me and Jeff
Me and Lauren

Hollis and Lauren

Happy New Year!

Music City Bowl!

2012-01-02T14:40:00.004-06:00

Another football season ends with a bowl win, and that's the way I like it! This year we played in the Music City Bowl in Nashville. We got to town on Friday and met our crew for lunch before the game. After starting with a some good food and some drinks, we crossed the river to head to the stadium. Say what you will about our football team, but our fans are still so excited to travel in the post season. Like last year, we brought a huge crowd and everyone was pumped to be there! We outnumbered those poor Wake Forest fans 20-1. After a close game we got to celebrate our win! We all went downtown to toast the Dawgs! When we finally felt too old to still be out on the street, we headed to the hotel. Go Dawgs!

Jeff, Garett, Hollis, Mitch, Me, Lauren and Kristin
The girls

The game ball was flown in by parachute jumpers

Here we come!

Me and Jeff (with a creepy Garett)

Holly found me!

Dawgs win!

Time to celebrate

Out with a horse that night

Christmas Night

2011-12-26T19:18:00.003-06:00

We ended our Christmas day back in Tupelo with Grandma and Pop waiting on us. What a great welcome home! And Morgan was ready for round 2 of presents! I was very thankful that Sam and Sissy came to us to spend the day. It is always nice to be able to cut hours from your trip! They were there when we got home and already had dinner started- how great is that! We opened presents there and then had a great meal. The perfect end to the perfect day!

A Mickey Mouse piano!
And piano #2

Ahh my girlie girl and her high heels

Sissy and her men

Christmas Morning

2011-12-26T19:08:00.005-06:00

We started Christmas morning in Murray with Morgan waking up to see what Santa left for her! This year has been very fun because Morgan is starting to get what all the fuss is about. And she loves opening a present! We woke up, opened Santa and stockings, had a wonderful breakfast that Mom made and then continued with more presents! What a way to start the day! The morning didn't quite feel complete though because Grandma was not there. We were so sad that she got sick this week and didn't want to spread the germs to Morgan. We missed her so much! But she was there is spirit for sure!

Santa came!
The loot

Ready to open

Just rip it!

Throwing the paper anywhere she pleased

For her kitchen- thanks GG!

Fun stickers from Aunt Carrie

Morgan loves stickers!

Jeff and Uncle Jim

Packe and Morgan

And then we were done!

Christmas Eve

2011-12-26T19:04:00.003-06:00

One of my favorite Christmas traditions in Murray is our Christmas Eve service at our church. It is always incredibly beautiful and ends with the congregation singing "Silent Night" while we each hold a lit candle in a dark sanctuary. It's very moving and really gets you in the right mind for the next day. Again, it did not disappoint! These are some pictures we took after the service.

The whole family
Me, Morgan and Jeff

Just the girls

Family Dinner

2011-12-26T18:50:00.004-06:00

We spent a few days in Murray to celebrate Christmas with my family. On our first night there we continued a wonderful tradition of having dinner with the Schwettman and Williams families. As the years pass, it's harder and harder to get all the children there at once and this year was no exception. While we did miss Austin, it was great to spend time with everyone again. We always have a ton of fun together and get to eat some great food!

The Kids
Susan, Mom and Danielle

Ben, Garrett, Carl, Madison, Me, Logan, Carrie and Bobby

Me, Logan and Carrie with our eggnog mustaches!

Madison (the most beautiful college freshman I know) and me

Morgan had fun playing with Susan...

...and Danielle!

Morgan and Mommy

We love playing "peek-a-boo"

Big fun!

Cutest. Santa. Ever.

Disney on Ice

2011-12-18T19:41:00.002-06:00

Disney on Ice came to Tupelo this past week. Since Morgan is absolutely in love with Mickey and his clubhouse friends, we knew we had to go. I was kinda worried how she could handle the long show (it was almost 2 hours), but she did amazing! When we walked in her eyes got so big when she saw the ice and the castle. Once it got going she was dancing, laughing and clapping! It was so fun to watch her watch the show. She even loved the parts from movies she hasn't seen yet. It was a great show that we all three enjoyed!

Family Shot

Before the show... so excited!

"I'm ready Daddy..."

"There he is! Mickey!"

"Hi Mickey!"

Minnie and Mickey- our favorites

The set

Jessie, Buzz and Woody

It's a small world was my favorite

Lady Antebellum Concert

2011-12-18T19:37:00.001-06:00

Last weekend we went to Murray to see Lady Antebellum in concert! They played at the basketball arena there and Dad got us tickets. They were amazing!! They even sang some Christmas songs to be festive. Mom and Dad have seen them now three times, but this was just our first. Please excuse the bad pictures. Apparently you can't take a big camera like mine into their concerts. Who knew? So this is the best I could get on my phone.

Jeff and Me

Mom and Dad

Christmas Card 2011

2011-12-18T19:31:00.002-06:00

As always I have great big plans for our Christmas card. And, as always, I wait too long for them to be realized! So this year when it hit me that I should be getting moving on them, it was too late for a family picture. So once again it just stars Morgan- which isn't too bad! She might be the cutest Christmas thing you've ever seen. Morgan and I tried for a picture in the morning, but I definitely needed help with this active 2 year old! So we waited until Jeff came home to help. We finally got a card-worthy pic! Enjoy some of our other attempts!

Tanner & Avie's Birthday Party

2011-12-08T12:05:00.002-06:00

Last weekend Morgan and I went to Hernando for Tanner and Avie's birthday party! We had a great time and the girls were so cute in their outfits fit for the princesses they are! At our princess party Morgan jumped and slid in the bounce castle, ran around the back yard, played in Tanner's room and ate cake. What a happy day! My girl loves birthday cake. She woke up that morning talking about it. She was ready! And after we sang and blew out the candles, she decided to help herself to Avie's cake. Sweet Avie was willing to share, thankfully. It was a great day and I had one tired girl who slept the whole way home!

Stealing the birthday girl's cake

Yummy!

Tanner

Avie

Eating lunch with the other birthday girl

Our Time with Santa

2011-12-02T18:06:00.002-06:00

We started the day so well. We talked about Santa all morning and she was really ready to see him. We got to the mall still talking about Santa and saying, "Ho Ho Ho!" But once we got in his lap, the tears started. Santa was very sweet and patient with her. She kept saying, "Momma hold you!" Once I picked her up she was all smiles for him. We stood there and told Santa "Merry Christmas" and even blew him kisses! But this was the best we could do for the pictures. Oh well. There's always next year...

Our Golden Bulldogs

2011-11-27T16:36:00.003-06:00

My husband is a true Bulldog fan. Neither rain, snow, sleet or back spasms could keep him away from Starkville. Friday night he declared that he felt much better and wanted to go to the game the next day. I thought he was crazy! But off we went to Starkville. Garett and Michelle gave us their tickets and we were very thankful since they were under the awning! We stayed dry the whole game! But let me say how impressed I was with our fans. The stadium was packed all game throughout the rain! Oh how we love to beat those Rebels. It was a great game and worth the wet, painful trip to watch our boys with the Golden Egg again! And now we go bowling!

Thanksgiving

2011-11-27T16:25:00.002-06:00

This Thanksgiving was quite an adventure. We had a full house again with Sissy, Mom, Dad and Carrie joining us in Tupelo. Everyone got to town on Wednesday so we could enjoy a long weekend together. I love that everyone comes to us. I think this holiday has truly become one of my favorites. But this year's celebration started off with a trip to the ER. Jeff had hurt his back a few weeks ago and hadn't been quite right for awhile. He was still functional, just in some pain. But on Thursday morning his back started to spasm on him and he couldn't move. Being that it was the holiday, nothing was open! So off to the ER we went so we could get him some relief. (I'm very thankful that Mom and Sissy were there to get the turkey in the oven!) I was expecting to be there for hours but we weren't! We were in and out in under an hour! Now if I could just get my pediatrician to do the same... But Jeff got some shots and pills and we headed home. The rest of the day was full of food, family and fun. Jeff even was able to sit upright and join us for dinner. With all the chaos of the day I didn't get too many pictures. But here are some of our fun!

Morgan reading with Packe

Funny girl

Building a castle

Silly girls

Laughing with Aunt Carrie

Granny's Birthday

2011-11-27T16:19:00.002-06:00

We went to Jackson to be with Granny on her birthday. It was a wonderful trip with dinner at Crechale's- one of our favorites. Besides yummy food, they also have a juke box that plays music all night. On your birthday they play "Happy Birthday" followed by "The Gang's All Here" and the whole restaurant sings. Jeff and his family have been celebrating here for years. Morgan, of course, loved the singing and clapping... and the cake!

The birthday girl

Morgan wanted to help blow out the candle

And waited for a bite

At home she snuck a bite

On her tiptoes to reach

Another Football Weekend

2011-11-14T12:43:00.002-06:00

We had another wonderful weekend in Starkville cheering on our Dawgs. Our cheers must not have been loud enough, but I was still proud of how our Dawgs held up against Bama. We got to celebrate Hollis and Jeff's birthdays and tailgate all day with our friends. Mitch and Kristin even joined us and left baby Ward at home with Grandma! And I don't think they called home too many times! Ha ha! Morgan got to enjoy a full day home with her Grandma too. Thanks Sissy for giving us a big kid day! We truly enjoyed it! I really don't think a Saturday can get much better than these.... well, maybe with a win.

Birthday Boys

Brett, Logan, Carrie and Carl

The boys

Me, Anna and Carrie

Homecoming!

2011-11-08T10:03:00.006-06:00

Last weekend was jam-packed fun! Earlier in the week Belinda and Emma Kate decided to come and we thought we would surprise Mom, Dad and Carrie. And they were! Mom and Dad came down for the game too, so they were very excited to see the girls. And Carrie spotted Belinda across campus! We had a great day tailgating and watching the Bulldogs win. And we were so proud that Emma Kate went to the game! And she loved it while she danced and watched the princess girls. A great day!

Sunday was a slightly different story. That morning Morgan fell off a dining room chair and hit her face on the back of our red chair in the living room. It was awful and she has a nasty bruise and rug burn on her nose. She was so upset and so were we. After that meltdown, Mom and Dad stopped in Tupelo for lunch. When they were leaving, Emma Kate smashed her finger in our front door. We were a train wreck on Sunday. Thankfully, that was the extent of our injuries!

All in all, a great and fun weekend. A few bumps and bruises, but more smiles and laughing!

The whole crew

Emma Kate, Belinda, me and Morgan

Laughing girls

Me and Mom

I think she ate 5 cupcakes

Me and Emma Kate- she loved her bow with a cowbell ringing in it all day!

Mom and Emma Kate

Me and Morgan

At the game cheering our Dawgs

She loved dancing all game!

Hollis and his studly posing

After our game we watched the LSU/Bama game on the jumbotron

Showing off the injuries

Poor Baby

So Emma Kate and I made a chocolate cake to feel all better!

Yummy!

Happy Hoot-oween!

2011-10-31T18:36:00.002-05:00

This year for Halloween Morgan was an owl! Shocker, I know. But I think she is the cutest darn owl in the world. We attempted to trick-or-treat, but we didn't make it very far. I think she's just content to pass out candy at home!

Hoot Hoot!

What did I get?

So much fun!!

Bike Riding Gal

2011-10-31T18:32:00.001-05:00

For Morgan's birthday, GaGa and Pop got her a big girl bike! She loves riding in it and tells her Daddy to go fast! Big fun for our girl.

Ready to Roll

Happy Birthday Morgan

2011-10-28T13:04:00.007-05:00

My baby girl has turned two! She is officially not a baby anymore (although she'll always be my baby)! Jeff and I have been so blessed these past two years. She is growing and learning each and every day. It is truly incredible to watch! Her personality has really developed this past year. She is very kind and will give hugs and kisses all the time! We have already entered those "terrible twos" and are trying to survive the tantrums that come along with it. But I wouldn't change a thing when she says, "Love you Mommy!" My heart will melt! We love this girl so much and with all our hearts!

On her first day with us

1st Birthday

2nd Birthday

On Morgan's birthday, I was able to bring some birthday snacks to her classroom! Morgan loves going to school and talks about her teachers constantly. Everyday she will jump out of the car and not even look back at me. When I pick her up, she is smiling and happy. A mom could not ask for anything more! Morgan's teachers are such a sweet blessing to her and us. Thank you Mrs. Sherri and Mrs. Kim!

Mrs. Kim, Mrs. Sherri and Morgan

Mommy and Morgan

Trunk or Treat

2011-10-28T12:58:00.002-05:00

This week our church hosted a Trunk or Treat for the kiddos. It was kind of a fall festival sort of thing. We ate dinner there and the kids had games and trick or treating to do in the back parking lot. It was fun, but we didn't last long. Morgan hasn't mastered the art of trick or treating yet- just give her another year and we'll be there all night!

Cutest. Owl. Ever.

At the duck pond

The Schafer family went with us

Pancakes and Pajamas!

2011-10-26T13:38:00.006-05:00

Last Saturday we had Morgan's 2nd birthday party and we could not have asked for a better day! Everything was so much fun and I think Morgan enjoyed it too! Haha! The weather was picture perfect and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. We had a Pancakes and Pajamas party! Morgan loves her RoRo's pancakes so she graciously worked the griddle all morning. The kids jumped in the inflatable and had a ball! We were so thankful for all our friends and family who were able to join us. It really made for a perfect day to celebrate our big girl! (Sorry for the large amount of pictures to follow!)

Birthday Girl

Look at our cute pajamas RoRo made for the birthday girl!

Happy girl

The house is ready for a party!

Yummy food

Fantastic cupcakes

The backyard was party ready too

RoRo hard at work

Weston and Morgan enjoying their pancakes

"Happy birthday to you!"

"Which one do I want Daddy?"

Family Party Picture

Weeeeeeee!

Sliding with RoRo

So much fun!

Lucas loved the slide

And so did Sawyer!

Conner was serious about his jumping

Time for presents!

Yay!

Claudia helped get Morgan in line

And so did Weston!

RoRo and Packe got Morgan a tent

Playing with Mommy and Aunt Carrie

Love the tent!

"Come in GaGa!"

"This is so much fun!"

"Don't you just love it GG?"

Thanks for coming! It was a hoot!

Ella Claire Baptism

2011-10-17T09:27:00.002-05:00

Sunday we went to church with the Blaylock family to watch Ella Claire get baptized. What a great day! The girls did great during the service and it's always so sweet to watch a baby get baptized. After the service we had lunch with Steven's parents. Everything was wonderful! It was truly a great day.

Proud family

Jeff and Morgan

Morgan and Claudia eating cake

State vs South Carolina

2011-10-17T09:17:00.003-05:00

This weekend was one of those perfect ones (well, a Bulldog win would have made it perfect). All of my girls were together this weekend- and that rarely happens! I was so happy that it all worked out and we were all together with our sweet babies. It was a first! And we actually got a good picture to remember the moment! I love these girls so much- they are my family. And how blessed are we by our many children! It was wonderful.

After the game we got to eat dinner with our crew at Anthony's. As always it was fabulous. And I have to brag on Morgan. I was nervous about how she would do that day. We had the early game so I thought she might not nap at all. But she did during the game! And she really did great all day. She was finally done at dinner, but we made it through. I'm so thankful for all our friends. Jeff and I are so blessed!

My girls and our babies

Family pic

My sweet girl

Getting lipstick from Kathryn

Aren't we pretty?

Go Dawgs!

Kendall's 3rd Birthday Party

2011-10-09T19:29:00.002-05:00

Today we went to Kendall's birthday party and had so much fun! It was a Halloween party so we got to dress up as Minnie Mouse! Let me just say, the cutest Minnie Mouse in the whole world. It was a great day- jumping, cake and hay rides! A perfect afternoon with friends. Happy Birthday Kendall!

Jump Jump Jump!

Carsyn and Morgan

Ready for a hay ride around the neighborhood

I'm ready and holding on!

Football Date

2011-10-09T19:25:00.002-05:00

This weekend Sissy came to Tupelo to play with Morgan. So Jeff and I had a date in Birmingham! Morgan and Sissy had tons of fun playing hard all day. And we watched our Dawgs get a win (barely) at UAB. After a too-close ball game, we did some shopping and had dinner before heading home. Thank you Sissy for babysitting!

At the game

Here come the dawgs!

The Dawg Pound Rock

(that's for you Kristin!)

Meeting Wade Brennan Byars

2011-10-02T21:48:00.002-05:00

This weekend was another wonderful one. Carrie and Bobby came to Tupelo on Friday to spend some time with us and we were so thankful. I know they have those crazy college schedules, so it was nice for them to fit us in! Morgan loved running around in the backyard with them. On Saturday, we watched our pitiful dawgs lose another one and then headed to Memphis to meet baby Wade! He made his arrival on Tuesday which was a little ahead of schedule. He just couldn't wait to meet everyone! He is so perfectly sweet! I could have held him all day! Morgan, as always, was fascinated by the baby. She gave him many hugs and kisses. When he would cry, she would go up to his room and bring him back a toy. Very sweet, but I bet Mitch and Kristin are still picking up her mess! We are excited to have Wade join our family!

Precious Boy

Yes, Morgan was all up in my lap while I held him

Talking football

State vs La Tech

2011-09-25T21:32:00.004-05:00

This past weekend was another home game for us against Louisiana Tech. An easy win, right? Not so much. We finally won in overtime. My blood pressure can't take much more of this, Dawgs! But the day was great! We had a full day of tailgating, which is always the best. We had a small group this time, but Sissy came and stayed with Morgan so I got to really sit and enjoy. It's funny how much you miss chasing after a two year old! The best part of the game? State finally got us some fireworks! My picture isn't the best, but you get the idea. Hopefully we can bring more of the same. Thanks Sissy for letting us have a big kid day! Morgan had fun!

Me and Carrie

Bobby and Carrie

Lauren and Me

Our cute tailgate

Touchdown!

A Visit to Murray!

2011-09-22T10:01:00.003-05:00

Last weekend we headed to Murray for a quick visit. There we continued our football marathon- 3 games in 3 days! Thursday was the dawgs, Friday was Calloway County High School and Saturday was Murray State.

Friday we got to watch Garrett Schwettman kick and Morgan loved watching him! We went down to see him after half time and she was so excited. She kept saying, "kick ball, kick ball!"

Saturday we had a lazy day around town and then finished the day with... more football! But we did finally see our first win of the weekend. And what a win it was! Poor Racer One (Murray State's mascot is a race horse, and after every touchdown Racer One - an actual horse with a jockey - runs around the track that is around the field. Big fun!) was totally worn out from all the scoring Murray State did! Morgan thought this was the best thing ever and said, "Horse! Neigh! Neigh! Horse running! Bye bye horse!" It was precious. But the best moment of my weekend was when we were leaving. I ran into... Mike Arnett! I almost passed out I was so excited! Mike was such a part of my life growing up and I love him so much. Not only did I get to visit with him, but I got to see Sarah and all six of their beautiful children! It absolutely made my day. I can't even put into words.

It was a perfect Murray weekend and they don't happen often enough!!

RoRo and Morgan at the CCHS game

Morgan and Danielle

Garrett, RoRo and Morgan

(Look at Morgan. She was fascinated with Garrett and his gear!)

Garrett in action

Morgan and Packe on Emma Kate's horse swing

She LOVED it!

Pure bliss for this kid

Packe and Morgan in the press box

Morgan's picking up some announcing tips

RoRo and Morgan

State vs LSU

2011-09-22T09:51:00.003-05:00

Well, the dawgs didn't get a win, but we were happy to be there just the same. A late Thursday night game was tough, but we weren't going to miss it! After tailgating with Michelle and Garett, we met Anna and headed into the game. Thank goodness Anna sat with us to help wrangle Morgan! We had a good time and hope we can get a win at our next game!

Me and Morgan

Jeff and Morgan

Sometimes it got too loud

Holly hiked up to see us! Yay!

Me and Anna

At the end of the game... she was done!

Happy Girl

2011-09-14T09:18:00.001-05:00

Morgan just loves her daddy! Last night they were playing (as usual) and I snapped a few pictures to share their fun!

Silly Girl

2011-09-13T10:25:00.001-05:00

Yesterday I couldn't find Morgan after I had put away a clean load of laundry. She was just helping!

Sweet Girl

2011-09-12T18:35:00.002-05:00

I took some pictures of Morgan this weekend before church. She was too cute!

First Day of Preschool!

2011-09-06T14:43:00.002-05:00

Morgan started her first day at preschool today! We have a wonderful program at our church and were very excited that Morgan has a chance to participate. She goes to school Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:00-2:00. We missed her Open House night last week so today was our first day to meet her sweet teachers. When we walked in they thought we were in the wrong class because Morgan was so tall! But when I told them who she was, they knew she was where she needed to be. She will be one of the oldest in the class for sure! After school Morgan kept telling me the babies cried and needed a paci. I'm not sure if she's talking about the baby dolls in the classroom or her other classmates (anyone smaller than her she calls a baby!). Either way I have a very happy girl on my hands. She had a great day! Below are some of the pictures I snapped today. It was bright and windy so they aren't the best but we had to have some!

So big!!

Isn't she the cutest preschooler in the world?

I love that she holds her lunchbox like I hold my purse

Football is Finally Here!

2011-09-04T22:28:00.003-05:00

This past weekend was a classic. All I can say is, "Go Dawgs!" We kicked off the football season in style on Thursday in Memphis with a win for the Bulldogs. Kristin and Mitch were gracious enough to host our crazy crew and Lauren scored a great tailgate spot for us on the Tiger Walk. We tailgated a bit, cheered for our dawgs and had a great time. Morgan came with us and was a trooper all weekend. She took a nap in the third quarter, but managed to stay up until after midnight!

Friday the boys played golf and us girls (plus Seth, of course) did lunch and shopping. That night we went out for dinner and had a great time. Morgan showed us her new trick- climbing out of her pack and play... and opening the closed door to her room! Trouble. So needless to say, Morgan may have slept with us a bit this weekend. She even climbed out during her nap on Saturday only to climb in our bed to finish her nap. That is where I found her when I woke her up!

Saturday was perfection. All I did the entire day was eat, drink and watch football with my friends. I'm here to tell you that days don't get much better than that. We had so much fun!

Paige, Kristin (and Wade), Lauren and me

Morgan and Aunt Carrie

Me and Carrie

Walking with Mitch and Daddy to her seat

Go Bulldogs!

Worn out baby

Thanks Memphis for the fireworks honoring our win!

Seriously, thank you. They were amazing!

Beach Time with the Worley Girls!

2011-08-08T12:27:00.007-05:00

This past week Morgan and I packed up with Belinda and Emma Kate and headed to the beach! My Missouri girls don't make it to the sand often enough so we were really looking forward to our trip. The girls did really great together in the car ride. Once we got there, Grandma had a wonderful dinner waiting with birthday cake for Belinda! We hit the sand the next day, worried that Emma Kate might not like it too much. Past trips have not gone well. But it had been awhile so we were hopeful Morgan would show her the wonders of the beach. But we didn't have to worry! Emma Kate was in the water before we could even get off the boardwalk! After days of sand, sun, pool time, great food and some shopping, we were spent! It was so much fun and we were very thankful that Grandma was willing to host us crazy girls!

Emma Kate, Me and Morgan

Building princess castles

Belinda and Emma Kate

Morgan and Me

Emma Kate was so worn out she fell asleep!

Me and Morgan

Emma Kate and Morgan watching Mickey Mouse

Ready to walk to the beach!

Emma Kate loved being buried in the sand! She wanted to be made a mermaid like Ariel, then had Belinda kiss her so she could have a happily ever after! So cute!

Walking to the beach

Morgan, Me, Grandma and Emma Kate

After a long, hot day of shopping the girls got to ride the carousel. Morgan LOVED it!

Weeeee!

Hold on tight!

Hey Mommy

All done

And she did not want to get off! Ha!

Then Emma Kate jumped

Out to eat at Tacky Jacks

GG and Morgan

Splash Pad

2011-08-08T12:10:00.005-05:00

Tupelo has a great Splash Pad in our park. Morgan and I visited it for the first time and she loved it! We played hard and I had to drag her away for lunch! We will be back soon for sure!

Bright Lights, Big City!

2011-07-19T09:06:00.006-05:00

Jeff and I took Sissy for her first trip to New York last week. We had so much fun!! I love that city and was very happy to get to share it with Sissy. I had brought Jeff there a few years back so this was a return trip for him.

We had a jam-packed few days full of fun! We stayed right on Times Square and it was fun to be in the middle of the action. We got many great meals while we were there too! I even got to do something new- Sissy and I had tea at the plaza. What a special treat! It was very cool and I felt so special... until I spilled my tea all over the white linen tablecloth! Oh lord! But one of our highlights of the trip was seeing Jersey Boys on Broadway. It was amazing!!

Thankfully, my Mom and Dad kept Morgan for us so we got to have some big kid fun. I missed my girl like crazy! But I think she had more fun that we did! Thanks RoRo and Packey!

Just arrived in the big city

Fun in Times Square

View from our room

First night out

In the plaza

Ready for our tea

Practically Perfect

I ordered the chocolate tea... yummy!

We'll be back Plaza!

Best. Show. Ever. You must see it!

We took the ferry out to the Statue of Liberty and walked up

On the island with the Statue of Liberty

Looking back to Manhattan

Then we went to Ellis Island

Amazing

Jeff and I went to a Mets game while Sissy saw another show. The stadium was amazing, but the only served Budwiser beer and Pepsi products! Boo! But the game was exciting- the Mets beat the Phillies!

View from our seats

Great fun!

Bye NYC! We'll be back soon!

Ella Claire Blaylock

2011-07-19T09:02:00.002-05:00

Morgan and I were so excited to meet Ella Claire! We spent the morning at the hospital just watching her in the nursery. Morgan LOVES a baby so she would stand on the steps and look through that window. Ella Claire is absolutely precious and is a new addition to our wonderful world of girls!

Me, Morgan, Ella Claire and Stacey

Beautiful!

Looking in the nursery with Caroline

Happy 4th of July!

2011-07-05T10:23:00.003-05:00

This past weekend was another one spent on the road, travelling to get our fun! We headed down to Jackson to be with Jeff's family. Sissy's family has their reunion in Canton every 4th of July so we joined in the fun. As always, it was great to see everyone and it was hot hot hot! We cookout on their family's land. While we are always in the shade, the heat still seems to find us. Morgan resorted to just pouring the water on her to cool down! On our way out of town we stopped by to see sweet baby Brennan- oh and Stephanie and Collin too of course! It was a great weekend!

Morgan and Jeff

In her own big girl chair!

Morgan and Brennan

Memphis Zoo

2011-06-30T21:37:00.004-05:00

This week Morgan and I had a sleepover with Ashley and her girls. We drove over and stayed with them in Memphis and had a ball! Morgan and Tanner played very well together and had big fun. And of course, I always enjoy my girl time with Ashley! Morgan could not get enough of Avie- she does love her babies! We played Tuesday night and then on Wednesday we went to the zoo! It was Morgan's first time to the zoo so Tanner had to show her the ropes. Morgan loves animals so she had a great time. Her favorite part was the farm section- because she knows those animals best! After a hot morning strolling through the zoo and an afternoon of pizza and ice cream, these girls were beat. Morgan slept the whole way home and still went to bed early that night! We had fun and we really look forward to our girls growing up together. It was a great glimpse into what is to come!

Bath time! Yes, that is Morgan in Avie's tub.
Watching the sleepy pandas

And the elephants

This is the best picture we could get! Notice the matching cups!

Wedding in Murray

2011-06-27T22:14:00.002-05:00

After our week at the beach, we headed to Murray for my dear friend Tiffany's wedding. Tiffany is a beautiful person and my whole family was proud to be there for her. It was a quick trip, but very worth it!

Our best attempt at a family picture

RoRo, Morgan and Grandpa

Morgan and her Grandpa (or Packey as she started calling him this week. Very funny because my Mom calls him Paul Radke all the time and I think she picked up on it. We'll see if it sticks!)

Morgan and Madison - two beautiful girls

Morgan loves wedding cake!

Grandpa made waffles!

Yummy!

To the Beach!

2011-06-27T21:37:00.005-05:00

Last week we made our first beach trip of the summer. Yes, you read that right- our first. Which means more are to follow! Yay! Now that Grandma has moved down there and Mom and Dad have set up their new home, we are a happy bunch! The first day we hit the sand Morgan had a ball! She was totally fearless, running into the water and loving it. She laughed everytime she got knocked down by a wave! Thank goodness we had plenty of eyes on her because watching her in the ocean water gets exhausting! We had to take turns so we didn't get worn out! Morgan has become a little fish. She loves the ocean and her GG's pool. Too bad we don't have a pool here...

The first weekend we were down there Carrie, Bobby and Sissy were able to join us. We all got to spend a day on the sand together and then celebrate Father's Day the next day as well. It was the perfect start to the week. Later that week, Jeff and I were able to meet up with some friends for dinner. Josh, Courtney and Elle joined the three of us for dinner Father's Day night. Morgan and Elle had so much fun playing together. They really entertained each other during dinner so we could actually enjoy our meal. Too bad they live so far away! And then we ended our week with Holly and Brad. Mom and Dad watched Morgan for us we got to have a big kids night out!

It was a great week and we were so thankful for Grandma, Mom and Dad for taking us in. Can't wait to do it again soon!

Running into the waves
Wipeout!

Still loving it and wanting more!

RoRo and Morgan

Grandma, Morgan and Jeff (sometimes it took two!)

Grandma, Mom, Bobby, Carrie and Sissy

Bobby and Carrie

Walking with her Grandma

The whole fam on Father's Day

Happy Father's Day Daddy!

My Dad and his girls - he wouldn't know what to do with a boy!

Morgan and her Aunt Carrie

Sliding with Elle

Sweet girl

Eating dinner

Precious!

Our make-shift high chair one night

Me and Holly

S'More Fun!

2011-06-15T09:11:00.003-05:00

The other night after grilling dinner, we used our fire to make s'mores. And man were they good! Morgan loved them! She would have eaten an entire one by herself had we let her. It was a fun memory: sitting outside, eating s'mores with a beautiful sunset behind us. It was a good night.

Let me check this thing out...

...Oohh! Yummy!

Chocolate covered face = happy girl

Schwettman Wedding

2011-06-14T21:10:00.006-05:00

Last weekend Jeff and I went to Jackson, TN to Holly and Logan's wedding. This event was one that makes me feel old. You see I used to babysit Logan and now he is a married man! In fact, the whole Schwettman family makes me feel old. But in a great way. I am so proud of all three of these kids! I could gush for days, but back to the wedding. It was beautiful and I was very glad we could be there. Carrie did a reading in the ceremony and did very well! We had fun at the reception and then headed back home. (Thank you Sissy for taking care of Morgan!) It truly was a great day!

Holly and Logan

Me and Jeff (Jeff wore his maroon tie in honor of our

Bulldogs win over Florida in the Super Regional!)

Bobby, Carrie, Mom, Jeff, me and Dad

Happy Sisters

"The Kids" Madison, me, Carl, Logan, Garrett and Carrie

(We missed you Austin and Ben!)

The Mom's and Their Girls

Madison and me- I'm so proud of her! She'll be a freshman at

Western Kentucky University in the fall and has made the cheerleading squad!

Susan, Mom and Danielle

Meeting Meredith

2011-06-05T22:21:00.005-05:00

This weekend we got to meet Meredith Hester! She is precious and Len and Christina are doing great. Holly and Anna came up Friday to spend the weekend with us. On Saturday, Stacey joined us and we all headed to Memphis to see our new girl! As always we had a great time visiting and laughing. I'm so thankful they drove all this way to see us. It was a great weekend! Morgan always loves seeing her Chi Omega aunts!

Stacey, Anna, Meredith, Christina, me and Holly

Me and Meredith

Anna and Meredith

Sweet girl

Morgan and Claudia playing- so cute!

Keeping Cool

2011-06-01T09:36:00.003-05:00

This past Memorial Day weekend we had fun! We spent a few days in Memphis with Mitch and Kristin and got to see Lauren and Hollis too. We always have fun with those guys! When we got home, it was so hot! So we have a little make-shift water park in our back yard. Between the splash pad, pool and sprinkler, we have fun! Morgan has loved every second!

Checking out this splash pad

Super fun!

Love it

Posing in the pool

Homemade water slide!

Weekend in Jackson

2011-05-22T21:28:00.002-05:00

This past weekend we all went to Jackson to play! Stephanie had a Sip and See for sweet baby Brennan so Morgan and Jeff came too. They had big fun playing with Sam, Sissy and Granny. I had a great day with my girls! First off, Brennan is so beautiful. She looked like a little doll in her bassinet just greeting her guests. She will be quite the hostess when she grows up! Stephanie, Ashley, Holly and I spent the evening shopping and eating dinner. It was a great night just us girls! I miss my dear friends terribly and truly cherish the times we can be together. I could not have asked for anything more!

Sissy got Morgan a swing!

And she loved it!

Ashley, Brennan, Stephanie, Me and Holly

Momma and Baby

Stephanie, Mrs. Cathy and Brennan

"Hello Grandma!"

Beautiful Brennan

Mother's Day

2011-05-22T21:24:00.002-05:00

I am so very blessed to be this little cutie's mom. I just love her with all my heart. We celebrated Mother's Day in Tupelo this year- just us three. It was a great day filled with church, food and fun. Carrie even got to visit for awhile and eat dinner. The perfect ending to a great day!

Spencer Garmon Evans

2011-05-18T14:07:00.003-05:00

He's here! Spencer was born on April 20 and I was able to go meet him the next weekend. I drove to North Carolina to spend a few days with him, Kathryn and James. He is precious! He is the longest baby I have ever seen and just perfect. Kathryn and James are so good with him- he is one lucky guy to have such great parents! I was so thankful I could go and spend time with them. I wouldn't have missed it for the world!

Me, Kathryn and Spencer

Sweet baby boy

So cute in his duckie jammers from Carrie!

A side note from my trip-

I drove through Birmingham to get there. This was the weekend after the tornadoes hit our area hard (for me, a whole day in my closet with a 18 month old and a cat- no fun). Luckily no damage at my home, but there was tragedy all around us. I knew Birmingham had been hit, but I didn't really know where. One place was right on my route. When you are coming into town on Highway 78 you see it. I wasn't prepared. Traffic had come to a stop because they still did not have power and the stop lights on the divided highway were out. The National Guard was there directing traffic. From where I was you could see the worst. You could see just where the tornado had touched down. I had to pull over because I got emotional. You see footage on tv, but seeing it in person for me was hard. Looking at that, knowing there was no way anyone could survive that, made me so thankful for our safety that week. On my way back I took some pictures.

This was a neighborhood

It's just gone

Royal Wedding

2011-05-06T11:06:00.003-05:00

I am not - let me repeat- am NOT a morning person! But a royal wedding? Now I'll get up for that! Yes, I was one of the crazies who got up at 3:00 am to watch the coverage of Kate and William. And I loved it all! Holly was up with me and we talked through the whole thing so at least I'm not alone in my craziness.

First, the dress...

Kate was stunning. I loved everything about her dress, her veil and her jewels. Perfection in my opinion. And her sister Pippa? Who knew she was so beautiful? I loved her dress too. At first I wasn't so sure about the fact that they were wearing the same color and fabric, but I came around when I saw them all walking down the aisle together.

Next, the ceremony...

Who else thinks the queen looks like the meanest lady in the world? I swear, even an ocean apart she scares me. But she looked nice as well as did Kate's mother. The ceremony was nice. I liked all the music and Kate and Will seemed to enjoy it and each other. But no kiss? Weird. I wonder if that's a European thing or a royal thing?

Finally, the parties...

So I found it kinda crazy this wedding day schedule. I'll tell you what, my day was not nearly as long and I was exhausted! I can't imagine these two! But it seems like fun was had by all and I wish them luck. Lord knows the royal divorce rate is a little high. (Maybe it's the mean old lady in charge- she is the only common denominator here)

All in all it was very worth getting up that early. I enjoyed losing myself in the grandeur of it all. Who knows, maybe they'll have a son and Morgan can marry him! That way I can actually attend one of these things! Now I'll just need a hat...

18 Months

2011-05-06T10:51:00.005-05:00

I can't believe my baby is 18 months old! Time has flown by too quickly! She is really becoming her own person now and her sweet personality is beginning to show. She truly is a mixture of both me and Jeff. Most times she is sweet and quiet and can play pretty happily by herself. But every now and then you see her temper flare! She can get worked up about something pretty quickly! (Guess which one is me?) But she is the most loving thing I know. She will give out hugs and kisses at any request- and sometimes when you don't! She still likes to snuggle with her Mommy which makes me so happy. I know this stage won't last forever so I cherish is right now.

Morgan is a talker! (Me again) Her language develops more everyday. It's been great fun watching her figure out her world! I couldn't list all her words because I would surely forget some. My favorites we are working on right now are please and thank you. They are so cute in her little voice! She is really good with animals and can make their sounds too. We also have a little picture book for her and she can point to people and say their names now. This of course melts the heart of whoever's name she says! She has RoRo and is working on Grandpa (my parents). She says something like Gramma and Pop (Jeff's parents). And says Carrie like "Caykee" which is precious! She can also say GG (my Grandma) and Bubba (Belinda). And we are working on more! She of course can say Mama and Dada, but teases her dad all the time. He'll ask his name and she'll say Mama! That little stinker knows just what she's doing because she laughs every time!

She also loves being outside! She'd live there if we let her. Thankfully the weather is warming up and we can enjoy it together. But her favorite thing in the world is still her blanket. That poor thing looks like it has been through a war already, but it goes everywhere with us. I swear it's magic! It can solve any problem that causes tears.

Morgan is growing too fast for me! I want to put a brick on her head! Right now she is 30 pounds and about 33"! My big girl.

I'm so very thankful to be home with her and watching every new milestone. They pass so quickly and I'm loving every second. Our days are truly filled with love and laughter. I couldn't ask for anything more!

Sleeping Beauty

2011-04-25T20:32:00.002-05:00

If you'll remember from a previous post, when my girl gets tired she just gives out. Another example showed itself today. After a fun-filled (and slight sleep deprived) weekend, Morgan was a little tired. I think we all were, but she gave up fighting the urge for a nap. This morning she was in her high chair eating a snack and watching Mickey Mouse. I was on the phone with Dad wishing him a happy birthday. It got quiet so I looked back and this is what I see:

This was at 11:00am, a full two hours before she normally takes her nap! She didn't even flinch when I picked her up to put her in the bed. But the best part of the story is yet to come... She did it again in the afternoon! Morgan is down to just one nap a day which she takes in the afternoon. So after her earlier nap we played and made a trip to the grocery store. She had a quick snack while I unloaded the groceries and fell asleep again!

What am I going to do with this child? What a mess! Well, she is her mother's daughter. When we are tired enough, we can sleep anytime, anywhere.

Easter and Birthday All in One!

2011-04-24T20:54:00.002-05:00

This weekend was truly one of the best! Carrie's birthday happened to fall on Easter this year with my Dad's following tomorrow. We decided to celebrate the big weekend together in Starkville and it was a blast. Saturday the boys played golf (big surprise) while Carrie had a brunch at her apartment. She very conveniently lives in the Cotton District- right where the arts festival was this weekend! We got to visit at her place and then walk around the festival. It was very hot, but very fun.

Saturday night the O'Nan's were wonderful enough to let us have a birthday cookout at their home. As always, we had big fun. We even had a few fierce games of croquet going.

I just love Easter Sunday. It's such a hopeful and happy day. I love a packed sanctuary with everyone in their new Easter duds. But my favorite is the music. I love the songs and the brass instruments brought in special for the service. We celebrated and then went to Restaurant Tyler for lunch. Carrie's birthday would have been even better if she wasn't so sick! What an awful day to feel awful! Get well soon birthday girl!

Visiting the Easter Bunny earlier in the week

Morgan LOVES her Aunt Carrie!

Cannon and Carrie (and yes, Morgan did get jealous!)

Our birthday kids

Happy Birthday to you!

The family

The boys and their croquet

Look what the Easter Bunny left!

Cutie

Beautiful girl - thanks RoRo for the perfect dress!

I think this is my favorite you've made for her!

Super Bulldog Weekend

2011-04-12T14:37:00.002-05:00

Morgan and I capped off our week at the beach with a stop in Starkville for Super Bulldog Weekend! We met Jeff there on Friday night and stayed with Michelle and Garett. Saturday the boys played golf so Morgan and I headed to the O'Nan's for breakfast. Morgan hung out with RoRo and Robin all day so the rest of us could go to the baseball game. This was great because my poor little fair-skinned child would have been miserable in the sun. I loved it! But I didn't love the game so we left early to prepare for the football scrimmage. We picked up Morgan (because she loves her some Mississippi State football) and headed to the stadium to cheer on our dawgs! After a great dinner, we headed home. We've had some fun-filled days, but boy was I glad to see my own bed!

Jeff, me and Dad at the baseball game

Drew and Carrie- thanks for bringing the cooler Drew!

at the scrimmage

Watching football is serious business

Trip To LA

2011-04-12T14:23:00.002-05:00

Last week Morgan and I headed down to Orange Beach & Foley, AL for some quality beach time! We stayed with GG in Orange Beach and Foley with RoRo and Grandpa. The weather was beautiful and we had a great time! Mom and Dad were there during Mom's spring break and they had some furniture delivered to their new house. We got to help break in the house as the first guests! The house is going to be perfect and I know they are both so excited for their new adventure. Can't wait for many more trips to come!

Happy girl on the beach (just like her Mama)

Walking with GG

Hanging with Mom

She would have sat right there and played in the sand all day!

Hey Grandpa!

Morgan, this is my golf hole. This is where I'll teach you to putt.

Happy girl

Me and Morgan

Morgan tried (and succeeded) to climb into Sunshine's cage!

Happy Homeowners!

Playing in the Park

2011-04-03T21:16:00.003-05:00

This weekend was one of those practically perfect ones. We had nothing to do. And I mean nothing. It was fabulous!! And the weather was out of a movie- just perfect. We played all weekend. On Saturday, we took Morgan to the park in the afternoon. I'm not sure who had more fun- Morgan or Jeff! Sunday brought more outside time as a family and tons of fun. I couldn't ask for anything more!

Swinging with Daddy

Loving it!

Higher Daddy!

Sliding like a big girl

Morgan gives the best hugs

Trying to figure out a water fountain

Getting water everywhere but in her mouth

Worn Out!

2011-03-30T13:39:00.002-05:00

The other day I was cleaning in the kitchen and Morgan was playing in the living room. All of a sudden it got quiet, which is hardly ever a good thing. Quiet = trouble on most days. But today was different. My girl had curled up on the floor fast asleep! This was in the middle of the morning and way before nap time! Funny thing is, this is where Josie likes to take her cat naps because the morning sun hits this spot just right. Like cat like... Morgan? Guess she was all worn out!

Brennan Ward Maley

2011-03-25T12:24:00.004-05:00

Morgan and I just got back from Jackson where we got to meet sweet baby Brennan! She is just perfect! I am so happy for Stephanie and Collin- Brennan is a lucky girl for sure. She is so petite and just beautiful. I got to spend some time just holding her and loving on her... oh yeah, and visiting with Stephanie too! The next day I brought Morgan over to meet her as well. I think Morgan loved her as much as me! These two will be great friends one day just like her mama and me!

Brennan Ward Maley

Joe Joe showing Brennan to Morgan

Giving Brennan some love

Weekend in Murray

2011-03-21T14:19:00.007-05:00

Last weekend Morgan and I made a trip up to Murray. It was a great weekend full of fun, relaxing and lots of basketball! We got to play with RoRo and Grandpa all weekend! We also had a surprise visit with the O'Nan's (a special treat) and got to take Morgan to Dairy Queen for the first time! Big Fun!

Loving on her RoRo

Sharing kisses

Morgan loves her Grandpa!

Snuggling with Grandpa...

...and then with RoRo

So let me tell you about my beloved Dairy Queen in Murray. This is such a special place and is like no other Dairy Queen around. As you can see, it's an outside establishment so it's only open March 1-October 31. The only food they serve is hot dogs (with or without chili) and still have the old school ice cream recipe in use today! The owners keep very true to what makes Murray love this place so much!

Standing in line

Placing our order

First taste of her cone

Not too sure about this...

Well my girl didn't really care for ice cream that night! So sad! Who knows, maybe it was too cold, maybe she was still full from dinner, or maybe she's just crazy! Needless to say we will be back for another try.

Susan and John Williams joined us too!

Clomping around in Grandpa's shoes

Silly girl!

Wearing Green

2011-03-21T14:17:00.000-05:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Bubble Bath

2011-03-21T14:15:00.003-05:00

Morgan loves bath time! This past week, her Grandma came to visit for a few days and bath time was made even better by bubbles! Her first bubble bath was a huge hit!

Missouri Comes to Mississippi!

2011-03-07T14:13:00.008-06:00

Emma Kate likes to tell people how much she loves Mississippi. This makes me so proud! However, I do think it hurts her PawPaw Ronnie's feelings some times too. But Belinda and Emma Kate made their way down south last weekend. As always, our visit was too short! But we made the most of our time together. Carrie came in for Thursday night to visit with us before she left Friday morning for Nashville. It rained all weekend! So we spent a lot of time doing our favorite things: talking, eating, drinking and shopping! I love shopping with Belinda! And we found the perfect Easter dress and shoes for her! I was proud of my girl watching her walk in those heels. I'm going to make a girl out of her yet! Sunday came way too quickly when they left. I just love those crazy blond haired girls!

So Morgan and Emma Kate played all weekend. Morgan loved Emma's baby doll Cara- it was the source of many fights! One night as Emma was ready for bed, Morgan was still wanting to play. Emma Kate looked at Morgan and said, "Morgan, you are wearing me out!" Now, do you think her momma has told her that before? Not to be outdone repeating her mother, Morgan pulled a new one on my too. She looked me square in the eyes and told me, "No ma'am!" Both time, Belinda and I just had to laugh at our silly girls. Like mother like daughter, huh?

Morgan and Emma Kate

Playing with Carrie in the closet

Boo! (what you can't hear is Morgan's delighted laughter)

Emma Kate was so excited to ride the train at the mall.

And Morgan loved it too!

Happy girls

So excited!!!!!

Ok, so I have this trash can that I've had for years. It has seen better days, and I think about replacing it often. But then I remember just how much my Emma Kate loves it! Since her first trip here at age 2, she had played with that thing. And now Morgan loves it too!

Party Weekend

2011-02-27T15:55:00.003-06:00

Morgan and I have been quite the party girls this weekend! First up was Christina's baby shower. We are so ready to meet baby girl Meredith when she joins us in May! Christina looks wonderful and is just glowing! I was so glad we could be there.

Me, Morgan and Christina

Waiting on meeting their new friend

Next up was Claudia's 2nd Birthday Party! We celebrated Minnie Mouse style and had oh so much fun! Everything was perfect and the kids had a blast. We came. We partied. We consumed way to much sugar! All in all, a successful day!

Beautiful Birthday Girl!

Claudia, Stacey, Christina (and Meredith!), me and Morgan

Me, Morgan, Tripp and Ashley (and Foley!)

Loved her sucker

Claudia: "Look at my new ride."

Morgan: "And it has a bell! Cool!"

Last Week

2011-02-27T15:50:00.002-06:00

Last week we spent recovering from Roseola. The Thursday before Morgan started acting weird. She was fussy and just wanted to lay all over me. Now, I was totally down with some extra snuggle time with my girl, but slowing down hasn't been her motto these days. She is go go go all the time! That night she had a fever of 101.9. She's never really had fever before so Friday morning we headed into the doctor's office. After testing her for all kinds of things, her illness was ruled a virus. So we went home to rest and drink fluids. Her fever did go down, but she started to get a rash. Mom and I noticed (she was in town for the night) her rash was getting worse all day on Saturday and by that night she was covered! Using my internet doctor skills, I came across a few things this could be. But after calling a real doctor, we were told she had Roseola. The good news of this was that the rash meant the virus was gone and she would feel better soon! The bad news is she looked awful! Poor baby girl was covered head to toe with tiny red dots! They didn't hurt or itch her but they looked bad. By Wednesday she was spot free and back to her old self!

Showering Baby Evans

2011-02-17T21:17:00.004-06:00

Last weekend I had the honor of hosting a shower for one of my very best friends, Kathryn. She and James are expecting a baby boy in April and I could not be more thrilled! First, I'm so excited to have a baby boy in my life! I am surrounded by girls - which I do love - but am ready to have a prince to spoil as well. Second, Kathryn and James are going to be wonderful parents. This little boy is so blessed and he doesn't even know it!

The day was perfect. We did the shower in Birmingham and Kathryn had lots of good friends there. We missed Ashley and Stephanie (they were taking care of their babies - both born and unborn!) but they were there in spirit!

Beautiful Kathryn

Lots of gifts!

Kathryn and me

This picture is a tradition started with Ashley!

Us and our sisters:

Sarah Ann, Kathryn, Me and Carrie

Me and Carrie

Basketball Game

2011-02-09T23:09:00.004-06:00

We took Morgan to the Florida game last weekend. She's our little good luck charm because our Dawgs won! And Morgan had a blast! She got a little nervous during starting lineups when the lights went out and the music got really loud. But she reached for her Aunt Carrie and then she felt safe in her arms! We had fun dancing, cheering and sharing our snack with our neighbors.

The entire day was wonderful. It was beautiful outside that day so we spent the afternoon outside at the Bin. Then dinner with Michelle, Garett, Virginia and Grady! A perfect ending to our great day!

Go Dawgs!

Loves her Aunt Carrie!

Sitting like a big girl in her seat

Fun in Missouri!

2011-02-09T22:51:00.005-06:00

The other weekend Morgan and I headed up to Missouri for some fun with the Worleys! We had a great visit- as always. We got to visit with the cousins, play in the clinic and learn how to paint! We had a great weekend getting to play. The best part was watching Morgan and Emma Kate play together. They both had such a great time! Morgan loves playing with other kids and had a blast playing with her big girl toys. Emma Kate has such a tender heart. She was always making sure Morgan was having fun and had a toy in her hand. She also shared her baby Kara with Morgan! But not her "who who"! (That's a Yoo-Hoo in Emma Kate speak) We were sad to leave, but we are already looking forward to our next visit!

Eating lunch with Megan, Chloe, Emma Kate and Logan

Emma Kate would help feed Morgan

I had a first. I broke the corkscrew. I mean

broke right off! In the cork! What a mess!

We tried to dig it out...

...and finally had success!

Emma Kate LOVES to paint! She is the best little artist!

So she had to show Morgan how to do it. What a funny sight!

Getting the hang of it

Then just going for it

All done!

Paint everywhere! Time for a bath!

Emma Kate teaching Morgan

Me and Emma Kate

Best Friends

Dressing up with Mommy.

And yes, Morgan picked my accessories!

Snow!!

2011-01-12T11:38:00.005-06:00

When Morgan and I came home Monday from NOLA, we came home to 8" of snow! It was crazy! We immediately got out of the car, got bundled up and hit the snow for some fun! Morgan didn't really know what to think of it. She liked being out in the cold, but wouldn't walk around in the snow. Good thing she lives in Mississippi and this kind of snow only comes around every 70 years or so!

I'm ready to go!

How cool!

Laughing with Dad

Needing help from Dad

Family Fun

Our favorite neighborhood snowman

The biggest neighborhood snowman

Not liking sitting in the snow!

Cute little snow bunny

NOLA Baby

2011-01-12T11:09:00.005-06:00

Morgan and I headed down to New Orleans last weekend to spend time with my Chi O sisters. We had a great time introducing Morgan to the ways of the Big Easy! Holly and Brad have a beautiful home there that I had not seen yet.

When we pulled up Friday night, Holly and Brad came out to help us unload the car. But we were distracted by a burning smell. And then we saw it. A fire. A HUGE fire. A huge fire right across the street! There was an abandoned church that was engulfed in flames! After a short freak out Morgan and I started to pray. We prayed that nobody was in the church, we prayed for the over 100 fire fighters that responded to the fire, and we prayed that Holly and Brad's home wouldn't be taken down too. That was a legitimate worry because at one point it was raining fire! It was crazy! But all ended well and the NOLA fire department was amazing!

After that smoky start, Anna and Christina joined us on Saturday. So this is what we did all weekend: eat, shop, eat, gossip, eat, sleep and eat! A perfect weekend! I miss my girls so much and I cherish the times we are together. And can I say, Christina and little baby girl Hester look so good! Morgan can't wait to meet her new friend!

The fire

The church the night after. What are all the fire fighters looking at?
The saints game of course! Someone set up a tv on the corner!

At Cafe du Monde

Heaven

Me and Anna

Christina and Holly

(Stacey- your Christmas present was a hit!)

Morgan missed out and slept through Cafe du Monde! Sad.

Happy girl

Gator Bowl

2011-01-05T23:24:00.007-06:00

Well, what more is there to say than, "Go Dawgs!!" We were so proud to be in Jacksonville for the weekend. We had such a blast! First, a big thank you to RoRo and Grandpa for taking care of Morgan so we could go celebrate! We had a great group that traveled together and rented an amazing house two blocks from the beach! I could have stayed there for weeks, but there was much fun to be had!

New Year's Eve was a big day. The girls had a spa day while the boys watched football and played basketball at the house. That night we got dressed up, had a great dinner and headed out about town! We found a bar to ring in the new year that was just perfect for us! Our group commandeered a corner and had fun just dancing the night away!

The next morning we got up ready to cheer on our dawgs! We headed downtown and got to the stadium with cowbells in hand. What happened next was nothing short of perfection. Our dawgs beat the crap out of Michigan! We spent the whole game ringing those cowbells- I know those Michigan fans are hearing ringing bells in their nightmares now. My arm hurt for three days following the game! Kristin's mom (a Ohio State grad) taught us new words to the Michigan fight song too! We sang them loud so she would be proud! That night we ate more wonderful food and decided to celebrate at the house. We couldn't have asked for a more perfect weekend!

Our awesome house

View from the roof

The girls- a before picture

The boys- a before picture

Jeff and me

Dancing like fools!

Having too much fun

Continuing the dance party at the house

Wow. I have no words. But, where is Jeff?

Kristin was so proud...

... and so was Lauren. Hey Hollis, where is the beach?

The whole group before the game

Ready to win!

Go Dawgs!

Carrie got to sit with us!

Dawgs win!

Celebrating with the dawg pound rock

So happy

Michelle and Me

Great minds think alike!

We had a handsome cat hang out with us!

Celebrating on the beach

Happy times

Orange Beach Christmas

2011-01-05T23:05:00.005-06:00

Next on the Christmas 2010 tour brought us to Orange Beach to my Grandma's new home! Grandma just bought a new home on the beach so Mom, Dad and Carrie moved her in over their break. We made it down on Christmas night- just in time for more presents! Grandma's home is perfect and we really enjoyed making our first memories there.

My stocking was full!

Help me Grandpa

Does this cardi me?

Morgan loves her new rocking chair!

It was my PawPaw's and mine- very special.

2010 Family Picture

Loving Aunt Carrie

Reading and rocking with Aunt Carrie

With RoRo and Grandpa

My cute new vest from Aunt Carrie!

GG's dog followed Morgan everywhere!

Jackson Christmas

2011-01-05T22:56:00.002-06:00

First up on the Christmas 2010 tour was Jackson with Jeff's family. We had a great couple of days there celebrating with them! Christmas Eve we joined Tom, Sharon and Lacy for dinner at Crechale's, which has become a tradition. Morgan loves it there! Her favorite is the juke box where she can sing and clap with everyone in the restaurant!

Christmas morning Santa came and spoiled Morgan rotten! She must have been a very good girl this year! After a wonderful Christmas breakfast and presents, we packed up and headed down south a little further. But not after hearing that we had a white Christmas back in Tupelo! Who would have thought?

Hanging with Grandpa Sam

Staying up for Santa!

Is this one for me?

Christmas morning

Sissy and Jeff

Morgan and Daddy

Look what I got!

O'Nan Wedding

2010-12-19T21:09:00.003-06:00

This past weekend we headed to Starkville for Aaron and Lyndsey's wedding. We had so much fun! You see, the O'Nan's are like my second family (part of the reason I ended up at State) and Aaron is like the little brother I never had. Our parents are best friends and we grew up together. And we all still have so much fun each and every time we are together! Here are some fun pictures from the weekend...

Morgan and RoRo at the rehearsal dinner

The kids (this is a very rare picture)

Happy Family

The girls: Me, Mom, Morgan and Carrie

Mommy and Morgan

Aunt Carrie giving her cake... she loved it!

Drew, Morgan and Carrie

Morgan and Meagan

Dancing with Meagan - that sugary cake gave her a second wind!

dancing fools

RoRo and Morgan

(This dress was mine. Mom made it for

me and Meagan had one to match!)

Morgan loved the Christmas decorations

Funny Little Girl

2010-12-10T22:06:00.002-06:00

This morning I got up to brush my teeth, pulled open my drawer to get the toothpaste, and found three little nesting cups in there! How did they get there you ask? Good question! My guess is one little Morgan Rose toddled her way in there and left them as a surprise to me! Next, I go to the pantry to get breakfast started, and I found another cup! What has my girl been up to? And how is she getting in these places she's not supposed to be without me noticing? And where are the other four nesting cups? Let the games begin!

In the bathroom

In the pantry

Avie Elizabeth Jones

2010-12-10T22:02:00.002-06:00

On Monday Morgan and I went to Memphis to meet our newest friend, Avie Jones. She is perfect in every way! Ashley and Kevin now have two beautiful little girls to love on. What a blessing and such a happy day!

Sweet girl

Me with the proud mama

Isn't she precious?

Morgan loved her too!

Santa and the Parade

2010-12-05T21:48:00.003-06:00

This past week was a bit of Christmas fun for us. First, we went to see Santa at the mall. This year Morgan was not so sure about this big guy. She never cried, but she wasn't too thrilled either. And no way was she going without her blanket! Saturday we went downtown for the Christmas Parade. It was yucky weather so we didn't quite make it through the whole thing. But we still had a good time!

Sweet girl

Oh Santa

Morgan loves a good parade!

With Dad

With Mom

Mommy's Little Helper

2010-12-05T21:45:00.001-06:00

Morgan now likes to help with chores around the house. This is what I found the other day as I was unloading the dishwasher. At least they were clean!

Thanksgiving

2010-12-05T21:37:00.002-06:00

This year we had Thanksgiving in Tupelo with everyone traveling to be with us. It was another wonderful year! Thanksgiving truly has to be one of my favorite holidays. We get to be lazy all day and watch the parade and football all day! Once in awhile we hop into the kitchen to check on whatever food is cooking, but still it's laid back. We had a house full which is just the way I like it! Thursday was great and then Friday it was off to do some shopping! This year was the first in a long while that Mom, Grandma, Carrie and I got to all be together. What fun! And yes, Carrie and I were at Belk at 4:00am (yes we are crazy) to get the gift cards. Let me just say it was a "fun day"- just ask the guy in the red sweater!

Morgan playing with RoRo

Reading with GG

Our BAB: Big Ass Bird. Isn't it pretty?

Morgan has started this cheesy smile thing when I try

and take her picture! Who knows where she saw this!

Arkansas Game

2010-11-28T21:59:00.003-06:00

The Arkansas game was our last home game, thus being our last tailgate. We had so much fun tailgating this year! Morgan really enjoyed it too. We have such great friends who we tailgate with that really make it fun! And this year I was able to be at every game and really do our tailgate justice. We are sad our football season in Starkville has come to an end... but we are ready to go bowling!

Family Pic

So sweet with her Daddy

The Sig Ep boys

Morgan and Michelle (yay Michelle for passing comps!)

Me and Carrie

Kristin, Me and Lauren

Go Racers Go!

2010-11-19T10:53:00.002-06:00

Last Wednesday combined many of my favorite things: hanging out with my family, cheering on the Racer basketball team and cheering against Ole Miss. Murray State played in Oxford and my dad came down (along with many of the Murray faithful) to watch the game. So of course, we all came too! Sadly, mom couldn't come- boo. But as much as we tried, the Racers couldn't pull out a win. But we had fun none the less!

Dad, Morgan and Carrie

Carrie and Morgan

Me and Morgan

Jeff and Morgan

Trick or Treat

2010-11-01T21:58:00.006-05:00

With all the commotion of the birthday party, Halloween kinda became an afterthought in our house. But Morgan was ready to celebrate none the less!

Let me tell you about my kid. She can now climb her way up on the couch all by herself. She then would lean over the back of the couch to get to the candy bowl on the table behind it. She then digs through the bowl until she picks out what she wants to chew on. The funny thing is, she digs until she finds Milky Ways! I kid you not, she will throw all the other options away until she finds that shiny gold wrapper! She will chew on it until she can make a hole and suck it out!

Are you a good witch or a bad witch?

And for the record, that is the same tututhat she wore last year at 4 days old!

Sweet girl

Party Time!

2010-11-01T21:22:00.009-05:00

Morgan's birthday party was the following Saturday. Poor thing, she was born during football season so I see many celebrations at the tailgate for years to come! So we thought we would start the tradition off right! The day could not have been more perfect if I had special ordered it. It was a crisp fall day with nothing but sunshine! With kickoff at 6:00 we had the whole day to celebrate. And celebrate we did!

Jeff and I are very blessed to have such wonderful family and friends. And now Morgan knows how special that is. We had a crowd come to Starkville! We were there to eat cake and party with the birthday girl, but we also cheered our Dawgs on to a win over Kentucky! (What? We are 7-2?) The day was picture perfect and Morgan even snuck in a little nap. Thank you so much to everyone who made the trip and truly made Morgan's day so special! We love you all so much!

These cakes were as yummy as they were beautiful! Thanks so

much to Rose at Creative Cakes for the wonderful present to Morgan!

We're still working on blowing those candles out ourselves. Do you see the super cute tutu that mom and dad made for her high chair? Love it!!

Yummy!

Loves ringing that cowbell!

Proud parents

The damage

So happy with RoRo and Grandma!

Loving on her GG. And kudos to my Grandma for going neutral and not wearing blue! I know that was tough for that wildcat fan!

Carrie and Lauren. Lauren wins the award for longest trip... all the way from New York! Boy, was mom and dad surprised!

How cute is this kid? RoRo made a perfect jumper dress for her! It even had paw prints on the back!!

Meagan O'Nan and me

James, Kathryn and Morgan. We were so happy they were there!

Stacey and me

Morgan and Claudia. How cute is that owl?

Elle and Morgan stealing food

Susan and Mom. We were so proud the Williams came all the way from Murray to be there with us!

Drew and Carrie. Thanks so much Drew for getting our balloons. They completed our party!

Me, Kristen and Michelle

Holly and Me

Morgan found herself a bulldog!