Canode Family!

Trick or Treat!!

2012-01-06T10:44:00.002-06:00

We loaded up the golf cart and headed out in the neighborhood to go trick or treating! The kids were adorable!! They had a blast! The Malone's came out and went with us, and we tried meeting up with the Hatfields but they were dressed as Bat family and scared the kids (it was pretty funny) but they scared them so bad that we couldn't be around them because Parker cried the entire time they were around us. Enjoy the pictures!

Happy Halloween!

2012-01-06T10:37:00.004-06:00

Evan was Buzz! Parker was Woody! Davis was the little Alien off of Toys Story and me and Ray tried to make ourselves into Buzz and Jessie with what we had at the house. Here are some pictures of us getting ready to go to the Country Club Halloween festival. The kids had a blast and loved their costumes! So cute!

2012-01-06T10:35:00.000-06:00

Pictures around the house!

2012-01-06T10:28:00.002-06:00

Bath time with the boys is hilarious - here are some pictures of them both in their together - as well here are some pictures of all of the boys on the floor playing around. Davis is getting so big. He already can roll over! Yes crazy I know but he is such a mover and a shaker which I was afraid of since that was how he was inside my stomach. We think he is going to be a lot like Evan (never stops). Love our little happy boy! Enjoy the pictures!

Buzz and Woody Happy Halloween!

2012-01-06T10:26:00.002-06:00

Here are pictures of the boys after we decorated our pumpkins this year. No knives involved but they still loved it! Here is everyone outside the house posing behind their pumpkin. What is so cute is the pumpkins match their costumes!
Happy Halloween!

Pumpkin Patch

2012-01-06T10:13:00.005-06:00

This year we went to the McGraw pumpkin patch to get ready for Halloween. The boys were so cute picking the pumpkins that they wanted. Davis even though he was tiny he even got a pumpkin. Evan was so funny the entire time he wanted to pull the wagon with Parker and Ray in it, and he actually was able to pull them. This year he actually enjoyed riding the little horse pulling things. He wanted to keep riding them. Unfortunately it scared Parker so he stayed back with all of us while Evan rode around. Parker did ride the hayride and loved riding on it. So cute - they are all getting so big and loved being outside running thru the hay and picking up the pumpkins! Enjoy the pictures!

Haircut

2012-01-06T10:10:00.001-06:00

So the boys finally received haircuts - We took them to Pigtails and Crewcuts in Fayetteville... and lets just say it took a few suckers and sitting in Daddies lap to trust the ladies enough to let them cut the hair. They looked great after getting it cut... but older. Enjoy the pictures.

Tailgating!

2011-12-26T17:50:00.005-06:00

Here are some pictures of the boys tailgating before a game! We always have to bring at least 2 footballs and now even the dump trucks! So much fun and the Hogs are doing great!

Halloween - Trick or Treat

2011-12-26T17:42:00.005-06:00

The boys wanted to be Buzz and Woody this year for Halloween! They love watching Toy Story so when we asked them what they wanted to be they immediately said Buzz and Woody - so the entire family decided to be the Toys story gang! Ray was Woody, I was Jessie, and Daivs was little Alien! We had a great time riding the golf cart around. Mike, Kayla, and Ireland even came out with us to trick or treat!

Pumkin Patch!

2011-12-26T17:02:00.005-06:00

We went to Mcgraw family pumpkin patch and had a blast. Evan loved pulling the wagon with Ray and Parker in it, and we got so many pumpkins. The boys had a great time crawling thru the hay maze, running around picking pumpkins, and Evan especially loved riding the horse pulls. Davis enjoyed as you can see just being carried around. Here are also pictures of the boys with their pumpkins. No cutting allowed (less mess) but they had just as much time!
Halloween is on it's way!

New born pictures

2011-12-26T16:58:00.003-06:00

New born pictures went great - we went to Fort Smith to let Mika Beth Edwards take the photos and they were beautiful! Enjoy them we sure do!

Go Hogs!

2011-12-26T16:55:00.001-06:00

Pictures of the tailgate at the football game!
Enjoy - and yes we took all three boys to the games - Evan loved them, Parker Liked them, and Davis slept thru them!
Great times!

Delta Delta Delta - bid day

2011-12-26T16:50:00.001-06:00

I took the two boys with me up to the Tri-Delt house to visit some of our friends that we had helped go thru rush. It was a great time and the girls got the house that they really wanted! So happy for them! Enjoy the pictures - Parker and Davis chilling amongst the girls!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-18T14:00:00.002-06:00

Wow it has been way to long!! All I can say is I have been busy! No excuse because now I am going to have to go back and put in all of the old post to catch me up! I am going to take the weekend putting up Christmas Decorations and catching up on the blog! I hope everyone is having a wonderful season and have a fabulous weekend getting prepared for the Thanksgiving week coming up! The boys are all doing great and I will for sure post pictures and post details about them all! God bless, and be ready for updating the blog!
God Bless,
Michelle

Happy Birthday Papa!

2011-09-26T17:03:00.003-05:00

So my dads birthday was a few weeks ago and we celebrated it over dinner. While we were in Little Rock during the last trip, we had dinner with the Geoffrey's parents (my sister's fiancee) and my entire family. Dad was pretty surprised and the boys of course loved it! They got cake and got to blow the candles out! (We blow candles out about every night and sing happy birthday, whether its in a twinkie, cake or even bread my kids want to wish someone happy birthday - most of the time it's themselves). We had a great time and hope Papa had just as much fun! Happy Birthday Dad!
Enjoy the pics
God Bless,
Michelle

Baby Davis is growing fast!

2011-09-26T16:54:00.003-05:00

So our little Davis is not so little now! At his 6 week appointment he weighed over 11 pounds. After I compared him to the other two boys I found out that he was about the same as they were but it just seemed so fast to me! He is in the 85 percentile for weight and 87 percent for height. He is already rolling over from his stomach to his back. He is smiling and making all of the adorable noises that I love! He loves bath time - it is so cute when you lay him in the water he smiles and starts to wiggle so much! Were so glad to have another water baby (not that he had much of a choice). Another thing is that when he is on the floor and playing on his mat, if he starts to cry and want attention all it takes is to send Parker and Evan over to him and he starts to smile. It is amazing how well the boys do with their little brother and how much they love him! I can't wait to watch them grow up together! Of course there have been so many funny, exciting, and over whelming moments with all three of them but for the most part now we can't imagine not having them all so close! I wouldn't change it for a minute! The love that is found in this home is amazing and you can feel it immediately when you walk in the door! Our little Davis has been such an easy addition to the entire thing and we are blessed so much with such an easy going baby! Enjoy the pictures!
God Bless,
Michelle

Rush Time

2011-09-26T16:47:00.005-05:00

So I helped with the annual sorority rush this year. There were over a thousand girls going thru rush this year at the University of Arkansas. The quota was over 100! I took Parker and Davis to wish the girls congratulations that I had helped go thru rush! We were so excited for them. Going back to the campus and the house brings back some great memories! I had met my best friend Jamie at the house (so I had a little help with the boys) and we got to see the house along with seeing the list of great girls! Here are some pictures from the day! Congratulations all you new Tri-Delta girls! Were so proud of you and hope you make us proud! The boys definitely got a lot of attention! They were hugged and kissed by all of the new pledges! Davis was only a week and 1/2 old so many thought I was crazy for even being there but he did so well! He slept the entire time and was never out of my sight! Congratulations again to all of you!
God Bless,
Michelle
Enjoy the pictures!

Tailgate Time - Go Hogs!

2011-09-26T16:24:00.004-05:00

Football has officially began! The Razorbacks were off to a good start - and we helped bring them in the right way! As always went to our favorite deck tailgate. We signed on to rent this deck that overlooks the alumni lot across from Razorback road and the stadium along with being able to watch the jumbo tron while sitting in the deck! It literally takes us minutes to get to our seats. It has been perfect for us and all of our friends and we throw a great party at the same time! Here are a few pictures from the first game - as you will see Evan loved the iced cookies (every time you looked at him he had an iced cookie in his mouth. Also, it was Davis's first football game! He did fabulous. He slept during the entire tailgate and as soon as we got into the game he ate a bottle and went back to sleep. Parker did fantastic as well! He bounced from my dad's lap (Papa) and uncle David's lap the entire time, and loved the hot dogs and when we called the hogs. Every time people clapped he would stand up and get so excited and clap and laugh so much. Evan was the biggest fan.. He talked my dad (papa) into going into the game an hour early! Yes, he knew exactly where to go and that he needed a ticket. So dad took him in and literally watched the warm up and sat thru the entire practice and game without wanting to go! He clapped, called the hogs and ate several hot dogs and of course his favorite skittles! We actually made it thru the first game and took all three kids in the game and were still alive after it all! So if anyone says you can't do it... well we proved them wrong! The kids did great and had a great time doing it! I am so glad we took them in, and would not have changed anything! I hope you all enjoyed calling the hogs into the new year! Here are a few pictures from the tailgate and game. I will upload more when I have them on the computer! Enjoy!
God Bless,
Michelle

Welcome signs to Davis

2011-09-08T13:39:00.003-05:00

Here are the yard signs we had put out to welcome baby Davis. Sorry just now posting them but just found them in all the pictures!

Trip to Little Rock

2011-09-08T12:41:00.005-05:00

A few weeks ago we took a trip down to Little Rock to go with Aunt Mandy to her first Wedding dress shopping trip. We met them at Proposals and Dad and Ray to the boys to Uncle Geoffrey's parents house to go swimming while I took Davis to see Aunt Mandy try on dresses. She looked absolutely beautiful. She found a dress that she really loved, but we walked away from it for her to go home and think about it instead of jumping at one of the first ones she likes. After dress shopping we picked up the boys from Geoffrey's parents house so that Ray, Dad, and Geoffrey could play a round of golf. While they played we went and visited my mom's parents - the kids great grandma and grandpa and of course all of the Aunts and Uncles. Everyone came over to see the boys and us of course. Since my mom is one of seven the house was full of relatives. It was so nice for everyone to get to see little Davis and the other two boys! After visited the great grandparents we left to go meet everyone for dinner. Goeffrey's parents along with my parents and Aunt Mandy and Uncle Geoffrey all met and had dinner before heading back to Northwest Arkansas. The boys slept the entire way home, everyone was worn out but it was a great trip. Here are some pictures from the day! We had a great time and were so glad we made the trip!
God Bless and enjoy the pictures!
Michelle

Our little golfers

2011-08-26T17:10:00.002-05:00

More pictures!

2011-08-24T09:38:00.004-05:00

I love my boys!! They are all so handsome! Evan looks so big in a few of these! It makes me sad to think how smart and big he is getting! I hope you enjoy them as much as we have!
God Bless,
Michelle

Davis's first baby photo session!

2011-08-17T16:30:00.003-05:00

Yesterday we went down to Fort Smith to take photos with Mika Beth. She did a phenomenal job! Here are a few that she has already posted on facebook. I can't wait to see the rest! The boys all did great and finally Parker likes a photographer... in the past he hasn't given us his Parker smile, along with getting out of our lap - this photo session was different! Thanks Mika Beth we can't wait to see the rest!
God Bless,
Michelle

Baby Davis Ray is here!

2011-08-15T09:55:00.016-05:00

Saturday August 6, 2011 Davis Ray we went into the hospital to deliver Davis. We arrived around 5 am and I was hooked up and getting my epidural around 7 or 8 am. By 10 Dr. Clouatre broke my water and my contractions were progressing. I started at 3-4 centimeters dilated and by 10 I was around a 6. All of the nurses said we would have Davis around 4 - I didn't agree and said it would be earlier and Ray agreed. They also did not agree with me that I would have an 8 pound baby. One nurse even made a bet with me that he would be around 6 and I went with 8 pounds. By 12:00 my nurse Nicole checked me and I was 7 centimeters dilated. Since we all thought it would be a little while my mom and dad took the boys with them to go pick up my brother and pick up some lunch and my nurse had left to get some lunch as well. Dr. Clouatre decided to go to the other room and deliver the other lady down the hall since she was further along. Not even 15 minutes later I told Ray that I felt like things had changed and that Baby Davis was on his way... he asked if I was serious and I told him yes.. I got hot and felt a little discomfort down there and in the past I had no discomfort at all. So we called a different nurse in to come in and check and of course I went from a 7 to a 10 in minutes! We called mom immediately and told her to get back fast, and they called Nicole our nurse and told her to come back. Dr Clouatre was close to being finished so that told me to lay back relax and not move... no coughing. I laughed and said so were going to wait on everyone, and they looked and asked me don't you want to?, and of course I said yes so 30-45 minutes later we were prepping to start pushing. Right before Dr. Clouatre looked at Ray and asked if he wanted to deliver Davis. Of course being the last child Ray jumped at the opportunity, he gloved and draped up and got ready. Four pushes later Davis was delivered - Ray delivered him on his own... with a little help from Dr. Clouatre. It was perfect! I couldn't have imagined it to go any better. Everyone was there to see little Davis come into the world! Ray and my sister went and got Parker and Evan and brought them to introduce them to their little brother and it was such a special moment! God is amazing! The pregnancy went like clockwork, the checkout and everything. The nurses were amazing and we were so lucky and blessed to have everything go so smoothly! Here are some pictures from the special day... finally!
Love and God Bless,
Michelle

Here are some pictures from the hospital of the fabulous day!

fourth of July Country Club Parade

2011-08-09T17:26:00.003-05:00

On Fourth of July we celebrated with being in the Pinnacle Fourth of July Parade. We dressed up the golf cart and put the boys in their swimsuits since it was raining. They had a blast - they were so cute! The golf cart looked great and the favorite thing of all was the kids got to throw candy to the kids on the street. Happy birthday America!!
Enjoy the pictures!
God Bless,
Michelle

Naturals Game

2011-08-09T17:01:00.006-05:00

A few weeks ago we went to the Naturals game and of course the kids found the kid area. Evan and Parker loved it! They loved the big slide, pitching tent and swing area. They were worn out by the time we got back to the house. We stayed until the end of the 8th ending and went out to watch the fireworks from the truck. That had to be the most excited part of Evan's night - he loves loves loves fireworks. After watching the fireworks from the road and headed home... lets just say the kids were out before we got home. It was a great night and the Naturals won! Enjoy the pictures!

David Ray Canode is here!

2011-08-07T09:40:00.002-05:00

Davis Ray decided to come into this world yesterday at 1:28 pm! God has blessed us so much! We have 3 beautiful healthy and happy baby boys! As soon as we get home from the hospital I will upload some pictures for y'all to see, it's amazing how much all three of them look alike! If they were any closer in age you would call them triplets! Evan was so excited to already start helping with Davis. He kept saying Evan feed Davis and literally copied me and said he could do it (and I'm breastfeeding him... If your following me) it was so cute but we had to have the momma feeds babies and boys help hold babies talk. I'm sure the first of many unique talks. The only thing we didn't take in consideration was how Evan wouldn't understand why momma couldn't immediately get up. My legs were still numb from the epidural so we had to keep distracting him until i could get up. He also didn't like momma hooked up to the IV all day- I am finally IV free and have nothing else on me except the arm bands so he should be much happier today! Parker was so funny he wanted to gobble up Davis! He kept saying baby - Davis- baby- Davis all day it was so cute! My parents have been such great help along with my sister, her fiance and my brother! They are staying at the house with the two boys until we can come home. I think the boys are loving the attention which makes it easier on ray and I! We can't thank you all enough!
Here is baby Davis information!
Weight- 8 pounds ands 3 ounces
21 inches long
Time: 1:28 pm august 6, 2011
Dark brown hair
Looks so much like his brothers
Sleeping great, eating tremendously, going to the bathroom great! He has the sweetest cry, when and if he cries.
He's very strong, already holds his head up and looks around. Opened his eyes within the first10 minutes of birth and continues to keep them open unless he's asleep.
He's very alert and cutesy of all he makes this little sucking noise when he's hungry!
God bless our family, thank you all for your thoughts and prayers! It means so much to have so much love and support, the boys are blessed to have so many people that love and care for them!
God bless,
Michellee- momma to all my rays! And wife of the best husband and father ever!
One last thing- Dr cloister allowed ray to scrub in and catch pdavis during the delivery- he did everything, caught him, cut the umbilical cord and sucked the stuff from his nose and mouth! It was amazing and such a special gift to Ray from one of the best ob's ever! Thank you dr. Cluoatre for always being there for us! You have a special place in our hearts and have played a role in 3 of the best gifts we could ever ask for!

Checked in and ready to go!

2011-08-06T06:39:00.002-05:00

It's official we are checked in and I'm about to receive my epidural. I'm dilated to 4 and receiving patosin to get it all going! I'll keep you posted! So far so good!
Say a prayer that the pregnancy goes well and Davis ray is a healthy happy baby boy!!
God bless and I'll keep updating as we progress!
Michelle

Lake Pictures

2011-08-02T15:34:00.003-05:00

Many of the lake pictures look the same but I wanted to try and find some cute ones recently that I have taken of the boys. I hope you enjoy!

Brandon Blew gets married

2011-08-02T15:21:00.005-05:00

In June Brandon and Liz had an engagement/surprise wedding party. The party had about everything for the kids. They swam in the pool, climbed on the swing set, fed the cows, road on a hay ride, and watched fireworks... and of course the best part of the day a marriage ceremony. We are so happy for you both, and were thankful to be invited to take part in such a special occasion. Thank you for including us! We had a great time, and I know the kids enjoyed the day! God bless your marriage and good luck in the future! Here are some pictures from the big day - sorry I didn't get any of the bride and groom... my camera was in the truck until the hay ride.
God Bless,
Michelle

Pool side

2011-08-02T15:05:00.003-05:00

This summer we have spent lots of time either at the lake or down at the neighborhood pool. My kids are fish, and I am not saying that lightly! They are obsessed! We have a rule that as soon as you get out of the car or golf cart before you get to go inside the gate of the pool the kids have to have their arm floaties on their arms. So immediately after we pull up both of the kids come directly to us and start saying put on put on - it's so cute. As soon as we get to the pool they jump full fledge into the pool - no waiting for us they go straight into the water. We love the fact that they have no fear but at the same time we have to be aware and prepared for everything at the pool. We had Evan signed up for some swimming lessons but they didn't go so well so we decided to put them off till next year. Evan didn't necessarily want to do what the instructor wanted him to do - instead he wanted to do what he likes to do and that was to kick, splash, and jump from the side. So, I guess next year will be the year for them to learn without floaties or life jackets. Another thing that the kids have discovered at the pool is the snack bar, Evan knows how to go up and get what he wants (skittles) and tell them his name, and the waiters of course give them to him because they think it's funny and know our code to charge on... We are for sure going to be in trouble when they get older! It's cute now but I am sure we are going to have limits for them when they get older. Here are some pictures from us all enjoying the pool! Have a great day!
God Bless,
Michelle

Count Down!

2011-08-02T09:18:00.003-05:00

Here are pictures of the first two boys so that we can all compare when this third boy comes out to see how similar they look. We are told everyday that Evan and Parker could be twins if they were closer in age.... it will be interesting to see if Davis will make it triplets. Here is pictures of Parker now, Evan at the age when Parker was born, and pictures of each of them after they were born.

Parker Now

Evan a week after Parker was born

Parker's a a newborn

Evan as a newborn

Were on count down - the due date is almost here. I can't believe how fast this pregnancy has gone by! We have the room ready, and I have everything stocked up so that I don't have to worry about going to the store anytime soon. We are so excited and can't wait for this little boy to arrive. Our last appointment was last Friday and we were dilated by 2 centimeters and effaced about 60 percent. The doctor said he didn't think he would be coming this past weekend, and I can say I agreed with him. If I had to guess I would say he is coming this Thursday. Not sure why I think that but I just feel like that is the day that I need to have everything completely ready! The doctor said he is measuring out perfect, and he said he thought he would be around 7 pounds but I feel like this pregnancy I have been at my largest and I think he will be closer to 8. Evan was born 8 pounds 12 ounces and I feel like this one is bigger than him but who knows! As long as he is happy and healthy we don't care when he comes! Evan is super excited for a new little brother. He loves looking at all our friends new little babies and he always ask if he can hold them, and we keep having to tell him he has to wait to hold his little brother. Parker on the other hand... well I am not sure what he is going to think about the change. He will always be our "Parker man" but I think he might be a little jealous of the attention the new one may get at first. Please pray for a healthy happy baby, and pray for the delivery and recovery. I will take any prayer I can get. So far I have been so blessed to have such great pregnancies - long waits but easy after that, and blessed with beautiful healthy babies! I hope everyone else is well. I'll post a blog as soon as Davis Ray Canode joins us in the world!
God Bless,
Michelle

More engagement pictures of Amanda and Geoffrey!

2011-07-12T22:17:00.002-05:00

Congratulations again Geoffrey and Mandy! Were so excited for you both! Here are some pictures from the big engagement day!
Love Michelle

Really going back in time to catch up -

2011-07-12T22:11:00.003-05:00

Last year the we had the boys both get tubes in their ears, and Evan had his adenoids taken out. The surgery started at 7:00 am and was real quick. Both of the boys did amazing! They were themselves by noon! Here are some pictures from the day at the hospital. The tubes made a huge difference neither of the boys have had an ear infection since they received their tubes.

Canode family at the lake!

2011-07-07T20:27:00.006-05:00

Trying to catch up...
So we bought a new boat this year since Ray sold our Cobalt after the Fourth of July last year. It took us several months to decide what type of boat we wanted, but after many months of researching and pricing out boats we finally both decided on a Master Craft 45. This allowed for more room for the kids, more seating for friends and family, and of course the major thing was that it had to have an in board motor and a large enough boat to make a wave for Ray to surf on. We ordered it in February and received the boat in March. We have already put 50 hours on the boat - and if you don't know much about boats - it takes some people many years to put 50 hours on a boat and we have done it in half of a summer! I guess you could say that's a very good sign that we like our purchase and use it as much as possible. The kids love the boat, and the swimming aspects of the lake. I love watching how fearless Evan is jumping off the back of the boat and Parker following right behind him. I swear they would stay in the water all day if we let them. I have to make Ray take turns with Evan surfing and then taking a break to let Evan swim. We have a great time, and have been so fortunate that both of the kids enjoy the lake and the boat. They both have their places where they like to sit (usually daddy's lap) and know exactly where their snacks and drinks are... it's so funny to watch them make themselves comfortable! Here are some pictures from the beginning of the summer of us all on the boat at the lake. As you will see Evan even gets to take advantage of the surfing and rides the board with Ray, Parker does it as well I just haven't downloaded those pictures yet. I hope you enjoy these pictures. I will continue to catch up on the blog throughout the weekend and next week! So stay tuned for more!
All the best, and God Bless,
Michelle Canode

Happy Fourth of July!!

2011-07-05T23:27:00.004-05:00

Wow - I can't believe the weekend is over! We made the most of every minute of it! On Friday my Ray and the boys were surprised by a day out on the lake (just guys) to surf and do whatever they like to do on the lake... we had gone down to the boat early that morning and loaded it with food, beer, alcohol and anything else they might need during the day! They had a great time, unfortunately Ray was called in for a trauma case and had to leave early but still they had a great time! While Ray was down in Fort Smith covering the case (till 9:00 am the next morning) I took the boys with my parents to the Naturals baseball game. The boys had a blast - below is a picture from the game of both of the boys sitting on their papas lap. Most of the game was spent in the kids area bouncing on the bouncing castle and slide but still they had a great time. After the game they had an amazing firework show, we stayed for that and headed home - we didn't get home till around 10:30 and of course my children were still up!! Finally by the time we got them into their pj's and ready for bed Parker feel asleep and Evan was close behind. I didn't sleep at all since Ray was still at the case... I guess in the back of my mind I kept worrying over him driving home in the middle of the night. When I woke up around 5:00 am to find him still not in the bed I started to worry. After sending a few text I found out he should be home around 9:30 - 10:00 am. We all were waiting for him as he rolled in the next morning - we sent him to bed and headed for the pool. We stayed at the pool as long as we could to let Ray get some sleep and went back to the house around 1:30. Evan ran in and woke him up wanting to head to the lake. After packing up everything and allowing Ray to kinda wake-up we headed to the lake.We ended up spending the entire day out at the lake until the firework show. There is nothing like watching fireworks on the water, and riding a boat at night. After the fireworks show was over we cleaned up the boat and got home around 11:00. Both kids feel asleep on the way home, and I think all of us were just as worn out. Sunday morning everyone slept in late, after we all got up and around we packed up for a long day at the lake. We spent the entire day riding the boat and letting the guys surf. Ray has become obsessed and surprisingly the kids really like to watch. Between each surf session we take a 10-30 minute pit stop for Evan as he calls it "pee time" which is code word for him that he wants to jump in and go swimming. He is a fish!!! He loves the water - we have to literally peel him out of the water and place him in the boat every time. We left the lake that night around 9:00, mom and dad ended up leaving a little early to try and get the kids home to eat something, and on their way home they found out about a firework show at the cross church and stopped at to watch it. It was amazing - we didn't get to see the entire show but what we did see we were totally amazed! We could hear the music and see the fireworks from our house! Monday we all woke up to breakfast and decorating of the golf cart! The neighborhood has a fourth of July parade and this year I wanted Ray to take the kids in it, so we decorated it all up and crossed our fingers for good weather. We were so lucky - the weather let up right around the same time as the start of the parade. We had a blast in the parade and the kids were so cute! I'll put some photos as soon as I can download them! The parade finished up at the swimming pool - so of course we spent the entire day at the pool! We left around 5:00 and went back to the house to clean up real quick and head to the Hatfield home to watch more fireworks! It has become a tradition to got over their and have dinner and watch fireworks with them! Chad's mom lives close enough to the Bentonville firework show which allows you to watch the fireworks from her front yard! We have such great friends to allow us to be such a special part of their family tradition! The kids really enjoy it because they get to play with all of the other kids! We arrived back home around 9:30 and put the kids immediately to bed - ourselves as well! Like I said... we made the most of it! I hope you all had a wonderful Fourth of July! God Bless America and our freedom!!
God Bless,
Michelle
I'll post more pictures - but here is one off of my phone at the Naturals game of the boys on papas lap!!

My sister is engaged!!

2011-07-05T17:37:00.003-05:00

Over memorial day weekend Geoffrey Campbell asked my sister, Amanda Fawcett to marry him! He was so cute- he called all of the family before hand to ask our permission and also for help in the surprise announcement! We had it all planned for them to come up for the weekend to go to the lake and see the family- little did Mandy know on the drive up Geoffrey was going to ask her! He had arranged for us to leave some ice chest and tables down at our talegate deck in Fayetteville for them to pick up on their way to Rogers. So that morning before they left from little rock I called Mandy and asked her to pick the stuff up on the way to the lake so we would have it for the weekend. So as we sat on the lake dock awaiting the phone call from her to tell us the surprise- Geoffrey stopped at the tailgate and told her to jump out and help grab everything- as they walked to the deck Geoffrey grabbed her hand and told her they weren't their to get the stuff and instead got down on his knee to ask her hand in marriage! Of course she said yes, and cried for a few hours in shock and excitement! They showed up at the dock where we had decorated it all up with flowers, ribbons, balloons, and signs to celebrate the big news!! More surprises for Mandy!! We were all so happy for them and so excited to have Geoffrey join our family!! Thank you for making our Mandy so happy! Y'all our so blessed to have each other! God bless!!
Love,
Michelle
Here are some pictures- not the best but for now it shows the happy couple and the gorgous ring!!

Wow so sorry and so behind!!

2011-07-01T17:01:00.004-05:00

So I am blaming my husband for not having his computer available for me to upload new pictures to update the blog... but I can take some of the responsibility to- I have been so busy getting things completed with work and getting the house ready for this new one that the last thing I think to do is update the blog! This is for my sister and mom who have continously begged me to update the blog...enjoy and there is lots more to come!!
This weekend we had Jessica Ritchie come out and take my pregnant pictures. I have done this with every child and promised myself that I would not slack on the last child. So here are a few of the pictures that Jessica took and posted on her blog! We had a wonderful time and she is so blessed at what she does! I love them all and I am so excited to see the rest! Follow the link to her blog and post some comments to let her know how good she is at her job!

http://jessicaritchiephotography.com/weblog/

Also, update on pregnancy:
So I am growing and feeling great! I can't believe how fast this 9 months has flown by. Evan is so excited that he has another baby brother on his way! We are as well... everyone keeps asking me if we are nervous or anything and I keep telling them were just really excited - which is the entire truth! All I can pray for is a happy healthy baby boy to love!! We have been so blessed with to perfect little boys and can't wait to see them all share such a special time together growing up so close! The baby room is almost completed all I am lacking are some frames and the new rocking chair which will be here next week. It was so funny since we painted the baby room Evan wanted his room so we are in the process of painting his room now. "REd" as he wanted is - really we painted it gray walls with red stripped ceiling - thanks to Casey's brilliant ideas! I hope you enjoy the pictures, I will go back over the last few months and catch up the blog but I was so excited when these were posted that I had to go to them immediately!
God Bless and be safe this Fourth of July weekend!
Michelle

More pictures from Razorfest!

2011-05-01T16:41:00.002-05:00

I haven't been able to download pictures from Easter because the computer is full.... so as soon as I get a new hard drive to download the pictures to I will be able to upload them. I hope you all had a wonderful Easter!
God Bless,
Michelle

Please pray!!!

2011-04-27T12:07:00.002-05:00

Please, please say special prayers for Meredith, Patrick, Cole, their families and this precious
lil guy...Miller.
They are going through so much right now and need prayers filled with strength, comfort, and hope.
We know they will travel this journey with the same strength that they have entered it with.
God bless this little boy and his family!

Baby Number 3 is on it's way!

2011-04-18T21:50:00.002-05:00

Yes you are reading that correctly! We are pregant with another wonderful baby boy! We are so excited! It is a big suprise to us both but we could not be more excited. They will all be so close to one another! We are due August 6. Everything is going great - the best part of it all is that I went thru my first trimester without even knowing that I was pregnant... and if you don't believe me ask my husband! We are going to name him Davis Ray Canode!! Keep him in your prayers and us please! I pray that he is healthy, happy and blessed! Thank you everyone for your support and celebration in our exciting news!
God Bless,
Michelle

Razorfest 2011

2011-04-18T21:46:00.003-05:00

This weekend we went down to the U of A to take part in Razorfest. The weather was so nice! Mandy and Geoffrey were also in town so the kids were able to play with them! We had a great time. Here are a few pictures that I got of Evan climbing out of the jumparoo - I will down load more and update them tomorrow! I hope everyone had a great weekend! We definitely made the most of it all!

Playing around at the house!

2011-04-18T21:43:00.002-05:00

I walked in on the boys the other day playing around and caught them in the act. I thought these pictures came out so cute - they really show the personalities of them both! So cute!! Enjoy and I hope it makes you smile!

Thomas the Train!

2011-04-18T21:38:00.004-05:00

While we were at the supercross race mom and dad found an event for them to go to, and Evan loved it so much! He is currently in love with Thomas the Train. So when mom and dad found the event in Greenville called a Day out With Thomas - Evan was set for the weekend! They spent all day Saturday there, along with us returning on Sunday and staying half of the day on Sunday! We all got to ride Thomas the train - play in the sand, gets Thomas tattoos, go to a petting zoo and so much more! Thanks mom and dad again for coming and helping with the kids they both had such a fabulous time!

Dallas Supercross or bust!

2011-04-18T21:35:00.001-05:00

A few weekends ago we made the trip to Dallas to watch the only supercross race that we could make this year. It was fantastic especially since it was in the new stadium. Mom and dad were so nice to meet us there so we didn't have to worry about taking the kids. We had a great time, didn't really get good pictures but here are a few from the event!

Evan is obsessed with Golf

2011-04-18T21:32:00.002-05:00

So can you tell our little man is obsessed with playing golf - even in the rain he wants to be outside hitting golf balls. We love that he is so excited to play the game, but also find it humerous that the first things out of his mouth when he comes home is "play golf daddy" or "go hit golf balls daddy." If you don't believe me you should check out his hand... he now has a blister on his hand from hitting so much! We had to buy the kid a glove at the age of 21/2. So fun!
Enjoy the pics

New Razorback Basketball coach - Mike Anderson

2011-04-18T21:29:00.002-05:00

In the celebration of getting a new Razorback basketball coach at the U of A. Ray also had the opportunity to meet up with some of his old basketball mates! Ray, Evan and my dad all went to the press conference celebration and afterwards went down on the court to take a few pictures. Evan loved calling the hogs and getting to take pictures with some very tall guys! Go Hogs!

Happy 1st Birthday Parker!!!

2011-04-18T21:12:00.009-05:00

Parker turned 1 on March 25th! We celebrated by having his birthday party at Fast Lanes just like we did for Evan! Lots of balloons, bowling, pizza, go-carts and gaming! Thank you to everyone that came to the party! It meant so much to have so many people there to show Parker how many people care about him! You all are fabulous friends and mean so much to us! I hope everyone had as much time as we did. I know the kids wore themselves out - especially those that were carried out - including the birthday boy. Again, thanks to everyone!
God Bless, and happy birthday Parker!

Happy St. Patricks Day

2011-04-18T21:11:00.002-05:00

I was so proud of Ray, even when I was gone he dressed the kids in their green for St. Patrick's day at school! They were so cute - I was sent a few pictures from Ray's phone of them being dropped off at school. Here are the pictures! Enjoy!

Daddy got a new big black truck

2011-04-18T21:06:00.002-05:00

So the weekend before I left for training we had to go pick out a new truck and purchase it all in one weekend! We loved the white avalanche but unfortunately we had no luck recently! It had over 100,000 miles and was a little over 3 years old but the motor totally went out! They told us we could either fix it and it would cost us half the worth of the truck or trade it in for a new truck. Well long and behold we got Ray a new truck! Good thing I drive a company car! Ray is very excited about it because it is diesel and he feels it will last us longer with the amount of miles he puts on it!

Lillian Vinson's 1st birthday party

2011-04-18T20:36:00.002-05:00

Pictures from a one year old birthday party for Lillian Vinson. We had a great time! The kids were worn out by the end of the party! Thanks for inviting us!
Happy Birthday Liilian!

It's been a while...

2011-04-17T21:35:00.002-05:00

So in December of 2010 I was delivered some news of having my territory with Novartis depleted. Which meant I was "restructured" in the restructuring. At the time I stayed positive and stayed positive believing everything happens for a reason. Well now I am proof positive that everything does happen for a reason. In February I took a position with Bard Access Systems selling medical devices such as ports, piccs, and dialysis equipment. I love my job and the opportunity I have been given! I never realized how much I yearned for more until I was put into the place of being able to get so much more and give as well! I am so excited about it all, which leads me to the reason I told you this is that since I have been so busy with everything else I have put blogging on the back burner. Now that I have it all up and running I am coming back to catch up! So sorry again for being gone so long but I will do some catching up for you! God Bless,
Michelle

Ray and I are home!

2011-02-22T09:19:00.001-06:00

So we are back from our trip and this weekend we made the most of it, spending time with the kids. Here are some pictures of all of us outside taking advantage of the beautiful weather. Also, here is a picture of Evan and Ray walking to get on board the helicopter! We went to the boat show and home show this weekend, and at the boat show they had helicopter rides... and of course Evan loves airplanes so we had to let him ride in the helicopter. Enjoy the pictures. Have a wonderful week!
God Bless,
Michelle

Leaving the snow in Arkansas to go to Vail!

2011-02-22T09:12:00.002-06:00

So we had a trip planned to go to Vail since last year.... who would have ever thought we would be leaving this much snow to go to more snow. We had planned on it being a family trip but, ski school told us Evan was to young to take lessons and next year would be perfect. So we invited 4 other couples to go along with us. We had a blast. We stayed in a home that we rented that was walking distance from Vail Village. The house was great, each couple had their own room and bath, we had a heated pool, hot-tub and fully furnished home for everything else. The skiing was fabulous we could not have asked for better weather. Vail had just received several feet of snow before we arrived. While we were there the temperature was in the 30's the entire time and sunny! As we were leaving a blizzard was coming so the timing was perfect. Skiing was great, restaurants were amazing, shopping of course was to good, and the night life we made the most of when we felt like it! Thank you Chad, Monika, Ted, Suzanne, Lance, Tina, Jeff, and Ashley for all coming along! We had a great trip with you all and so glad you could come and join us! Here are the few pictures we were took... sorry we didn't get many.
God Bless, Michelle

Were not in Colorado yet... that's Arkansas snow!

2011-02-22T08:57:00.003-06:00

Wow, I still can't get over how much snow we received over the past few weeks! Here are some pictures from the giant snow! We had to dig out of our garage to be able to go anywhere - the pictures are of Ray, Evan, me, and the neighbors digging out! Evan loved the snow - he was falling flat on his face and rolling all around in the snow. Some of the other pictures are from our backyard. We have a patio table with six chairs directly outside our kitchen. As you can see in the pictures - I took a picture at the beginning of the snow and somewhat when it slowed down, and you can't even see the table in the second picture, but you can see the umbrella.... unbelievable!
God Bless,
Michelle

Parker is walking!

2011-02-03T16:46:00.003-06:00

So, my youngest is walking! He has been wobbling taking a few steps the past few weeks, and now he has officially walked from the coach to the chair! I can't believe he is growing up so fast. I had a feeling he would be walking fast since his brother walked at the age of 9 months so it doesn't surprise me at all that he is right there behind his brother! I will post a video as soon as we get it downloaded!
God Bless,
Michelle

Snow Day Again!

2011-02-02T11:02:00.009-06:00

Tuesday was obviously a snow day! We received a light dusting over Monday night, and Tuesday morning it really started to come down! I took some pictures of the house yesterday morning to show how it all begin. Also, we decided to go outside and play in it a little while. Parker was down for his morning nap so we bundled up Evan and headed out. As you can see he had a blast - and put his gloves on this time. He loved having Ray pull him in the sled. Ray even got the Evan rode it around our front drive. It was hilarious. Around noon we were all ready to get out of the house so we decided to get everyone bundled up to go eat lunch at the club and after go sledding behind the club house. The kids both did great over lunch - but by the time we got to the hill to go sledding Evan was getting tired. So we went back to the truck and set out to go home and let the boys take their afternoon naps. During the naps I cleaned up the house a little. For dinner we had some good friends of ours over for some Chili and cornbread. The kids had a great time playing together.
Now it is Wednesday, and again the daycare is closed. I am home with the kids and Ray is out working some of his cases in Fort Smith. He should make it home early but for now I am taking advantage of the time at home, cleaning, laundry and organizing. I hope everyone else is making the most of their time at home! Stay warm and safe!
God Bless,
Michelle
Enjoy the pictures!

Beautiful Weekend!

2011-01-30T09:00:00.006-06:00

Friday Ray left for his National Sales Meeting so I have the boys on my own this weekend! Luckily the weather has been amazing!! Friday we came home and played outside till we could not see ourselves because it was so dark - and Saturday I tried my best to make the most of the day! We woke up early and made breakfast then I loaded up the boys for a jog in the stroller. It ended up being a 21/2 hour walk/jog since Evan wanted to get out a lot and explore or help push Parker. We went down to the putting green and Evan hit some balls. For lunch we went up to Evan's favorite Chick-fil-a. As we were eating some of our friends called and invited us to meet them at the playground in our neighborhood. The boys had a blast - we go there all the time so Evan knew exactly what to do! I had my camera so I was able to get some fun pictures of Evan with Maya and Parker playing around! The Hatfield's left before we did - we ended up staying there forever! Finally Parker was getting tired so we took him home to take a nap and Evan to get a snack. Evan finally went down for a nap and after lots more playtime outside we ate dinner and settled down with a bath and buzz and woody movie! We had a blast and wish Daddy was here to enjoy it but he is on his way home as I type. Hopefully the weather will be as pretty this afternoon for us to play with him outside! I hope you were able to enjoy the beautiful days!
God Bless,
Michelle

Snow Days!

2011-01-28T09:06:00.002-06:00

After I finished working I came home and bundled up Evan to run outside and enjoy the snow a little. He was so funny he loved putting all of the gear on except for the gloves, I think because it took to long... Either way we stayed outside for a while until he feel in the snow and realized it was very cold on his hands. After that he came to me and said, "it's cold momma go inside." So that was about the extent of our snow day. I wasn't to worried though because both of them are fighting a cold so it was probably better for them to be inside anyway. Here are some pictures from the day. Here are some pictures from us goofing around with the ski helmets around the house. Evan loves putting "his helmet" on like daddy!
Updates on Evan:
2 year appointment - everything went great passed all of the test and measuring 90% height and 70% weight.
He is talking up a storm - full sentences!
Counting to 10 with no trouble
Saying his ABC's - has a little trouble around the QRSTUV part but its so cute because he sings thru the part where I guess your not supposed to notice..
Potty Training - going well so far - he is only wearing pull-ups now and is go #1 in the potty with no trouble. #2 isn't coming so easy he tends to wait at the exact time when he has to go to tell us so we usually are a little to late to the potty for that one. I am not complaining though because he is doing very well. Were not pushing it on him - if we celebrate when he goes in the potty but he doesn't get in trouble if he doesn't.
He still plays very well with Parker - it's so funny when Parker is doing something wrong and we are telling him no - Evan likes to help tell him no.
Updates on Parker:
Still not walking but he has taken his first step
He can stand forever and bend down and get up on his own he just decides to crawl instead of walking...
He has started to eat more people food - because of Evan's gracious sharing Parker has been able to try a lot of things real early
He is saying momma and dadda and he calls Evan something were not exactly sure what he is trying to say - it sounds a little like br br "maybe brother" either way it is so cute when they are playing together
He is sleeping thru the night
Drinking from his brothers sippy cups
Uses a spoon on his own (because he demands it)

Hope everyone is doing well and staying warm!
God Bless,
Michelle

SugarBowl!

2011-01-21T09:33:00.003-06:00

Ray and I decided to go to the Sugar Bowl and had a blast! Even though we lost we still made the most of the trip! We drove thru Texarkana to drop the kids off with my parents and then from there drove to New Orleans. There were lots of people down there to meet up with and go out on Burbon street with including Mandy and Geoffrey. We couldn't believe it but we did find them out of all the waves of red. It was amazing if you weren't wearing Red you were out of place for sure! We were very glad we went. We did manage to take one picture while were down there on Ray's phone... this was my fault I brought the camera but the memory card was full of pictures I hadn't downloaded yet. We had a great time and after is was all over proud of our HOGS! Go Hogs!
God Bless,
Michelle

Christmas pictures

2011-01-21T09:21:00.006-06:00

Ok sorry it has taken me an entire month to post these but we have been a little busy! Here are pictures from Christmas. My parents came up from Texarkana and Mandy, Geoffrey, and David came up as well. We all had a great time - Christmas Eve we went and watched the movie Meet the Fockers 3 "I would definitely wait till it comes out on video. It was cute but not near as cute and funny as the others. Afterwards, we went home and ate dinner and watched more movies. Christmas morning was great Evan got his first Bicycle and loved it! He has been riding it ever since! Parker had his first Christmas and of course didn't really know what was going on but still was very cute playing with the paper and boxes! We had a great Christmas and were very thankful that everyone was able to come up! Ray's parents were unable to come over because his mom had invited her sister and mom over for Christmas so we had a late Christmas with them at there house. All in all we had a wonderful Christmas season and look forward to more with the boys!
God Bless, Michelle

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JESUS!

2010-12-21T16:05:00.002-06:00

I hope everyone is blessed these Holiday's with time spent with the special people in your lives, and that you take time to thank the one person's birthday we are all celebrating and that is Jesus Christ! Be safe, happy, and thank you to everyone that has filled our lives with so much joy and love! You all have a special place in our hearts!
God Bless,
Michelle

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JESUS!!!!

More of Evan's 2nd birthday party!

2010-12-21T15:47:00.015-06:00

Pictures from Evan's Birthday party!
If anyone wants a hard copy of any photo email, call, or text me and I will get it to you asap! She took some great family shots!

Mandy and Geoffrey's BIG Birthday present!

2010-12-07T09:06:00.001-06:00

Thank you Aunt Mandy and Geoffrey for the great birthday present for Evan! He loves it! Evan loves golf, and loves pretending driving the big golf cart so now that they have given him his own he is in heaven! Here are some pictures of him driving it around the house last night!

Marking the Height!

2010-12-07T08:49:00.002-06:00

After Evan has become obsessed with Buzz and Woody and the movie Toy Story there is parts of the movie that we have picked up on that we wanted to repeat as our own tradition - one of those being to measure the boys height. The spot is the boys closet. Here are some pictures of our first measurements!

Bentonville Christmas parade!

2010-12-07T08:44:00.003-06:00

Last Saturday Bentonville had it's annual Christmas parade. We bundled up the boys and headed down to the Bentonville square to watch the parade. It was a wonderful parade - lots of floats - the them was Christmas movies. Our vote for the best float was the cousin Eddy Mobile Home float - based on the National Lampoons Christmas Vacation movie. I hope you all had a wonderful weekend - we sure made the most of the entire weekend!
God Bless and have a great week!
Michelle

Evan's 2nd Birthday Party!

2010-12-07T08:41:00.007-06:00

On December 2, 2008 Evan Ray Canode came into this world - and Thursday we celebrated his 2nd birthday! I can't believe my little baby boy is already 2. It goes by so fast, I still remember my mom telling me to cherish the special times because the days go by slow but the years go by so fast, and now I find myself repeating that constantly! Evan has blessed us so very much with his strong little personality and athletic abilities beyond our beliefs. He constantly amazes us every single day - and I pray to God for the compassion, strength, and patience to raise him to be the best man he can be! Thank you Evan for all that you have given us - you are a blessing beyond words!
Evan woke up to his favorite thing "the birthday song" and a small birthday cake with candles "a tradition." He went to school as usual but got to have cupcakes for him and all of his friends. That night we took the boys to their first trip to Chuck E Cheese. We had a great family night! By the time we got home they were both wore out - below are some pictures from the night! His favorite was the rolling ball game, instead of rolling the ball he walked up and put in in the slots... so funny!
On Friday we had his birthday party at the house - Santa came to visit along with his elf - all the kids had a great time telling Santa what they wanted. Evan isn't afraid of Santa but I can't say that he likes to sit on his lap. He will stand next to him and smile and tell him hi but that is as far as it goes... Parker on the other hand is our little happy baby so it doesn't matter who is holding him - if they are holding him he is laughing or smiling so of course he liked Santa. We had a wonderful time, and so many of his friends showed up to celebrate his 2nd birthday! Thank you to everyone who came and spent time wishing him a happy birthday!
Here are a few pictures there are more to come as soon as the photographer gets them to me I will post more!

Ray and James go hunting

2010-12-07T08:36:00.003-06:00

As I said earlier Ray had planned a hunting trip near Texarkana, he arranged for James to go along with him. James killed a dear (not sure the point) and Ray killed a Hog (have no clue what you do with that cooking wise) but they seemed to have a great time. Here are some pictures from the big hunt!

Evan's first plane ride!

2010-12-07T08:27:00.004-06:00

After Thanksgiving with Ray's parents we packed up the car and headed south to my parent's home. My brother, sister and her boyfriend had all driven down as well to visit. Also, Ray had set up a hunting trip down around Texarkana so it worked out perfectly. We stayed all weekend and headed home on Sunday, but during the time we were there my dad was able to schedule a plane ride for Evan. My dad has been flying planes since he was 15 - I was born flying... we have pictures of me only weeks old flying with my parents, and I still remember those as some of our best memories. So now my dad is letting Evan experience flying. He had a great time, he wasn't sure what was going on at first, he kept saying airplane and pointing outside of the plane, and I kept saying back to him that we were in the airplane flying. It wasn't until my dad put him in the cockpit to let him see the front of the plane that I think he understood. He loved it and kept saying more after we landed. Thanks dad for arranging the flight - we had a great time! Here are some pictures from our trip to Texarkana as well as the plane ride!
God Bless,
Michelle

Thanksgiving with Ray's family

2010-12-07T08:20:00.004-06:00

Thanksgiving day we had Ray's parents and his grandmother over for Thanksgiving. They came over a little early so we had a chance to get some cute pictures of them playing around and posing in front of the tree. After picture taking we packed up in the cars and drove up to the club to eat (no I did not cook - and I am sure if you know me you are not surprised). The food was delicious and we enjoyed having them over! The kids enjoyed spending time with their grandparents! Thank you all so much for coming over! We had a wonderful time!
God Bless,
Michelle
Here are some pictures from the day!

Annual Thanksgiving with friends

2010-11-21T17:33:00.002-06:00

Every year before Thanksgiving someone from our group host the annual Thanksgiving dinner at there home for everyone to have a huge potluck to have time to look back at the year and enjoy time with everyone! This year we were the host, we had a wonderful time and hope everyone else did as well. Enjoy the pictures and have a wonderful Thanksgiving with your family and friends!
God Bless,
Michelle

The kids clowning around...

2010-11-21T17:28:00.004-06:00

This weekend we have been hanging around the house putting up the rest of the Christmas lights, trees and trimming... Also, the boys were being real good and cute so we grabbed the camera to take a few pictures of them around the house. Here they are so I hope you enjoy!
God Bless,
Michelle

Game Weekend!

2010-11-14T22:50:00.002-06:00

This weekend we took part in the last Razorback home game for the year. Arkansas vs. UTEP, it was obviously not the biggest game of the year, but we definitely made the most of the game. We arrived at the tailgate around 3:00 and Evan was ready to go into the game immediately. He kept walking down to the path to walk to the game saying "football momma" and "go hogs" he didn't understand why we were not going into the game. We hung out at the tailgate until about 5:45 and headed that way. It was very cold down at the tailgate so mom stayed in the truck with Parker, since he already has an ear infection and a cold, and we all took Evan "which at the time was the only one excited to go into the game" once we sat in our seats we were surprised to find that it was much warmer in the stadium and we were not nearly as cold. Actually, we had taken up blankets and didn't put them to use. We stayed till half time and then headed back to the car back to the house. Once we arrived to the house I worked on finishing the boys Christmas tree along with putting up the big tree in the living room. It is finally finished, and the boys as well. Now all I have left are the small things around the house and the mantle but that doesn't take nearly as long as the tree. I will post some pictures later. We had a fabulous weekend, fall is amongst us and I am loving it! It seems as if everyone starts to get in better moods around this time of the year! I hope you all had a wonderful weekend.
God Bless, and best wishes!
Michelle

Little tidbits:
Evan - has officially been to every Razorback football game this year and loved them all! We were surprised at how well he did at all of the games.
Parker - has been to every Razorback game this year except for Auburn (babysitter because we were in charge of the tailgate) and UTEP (to cold) but great effort. He was also very good - actually slept thru most of them!

Fast week!

2010-11-11T15:14:00.002-06:00

It seems like last week flew by and already this weekend as crept up on us way to fast! We really didn't do much last weekend besides hanging out at the house. I decided that we needed to put up the Christmas lights, so we completed that task, and this weekend I plan on getting most of the Christmas decorations up. Yes, I know it is not even Thanksgiving yet, but having two kids keeps your weekends busy! I for casted that this would be the only free weekend that I sorta have available (not counting the UofA game) that we have free, and it helps that my parents are going to be here to help with the kids.
So updates on the kiddos:
Evan - talking up a storm!! He definitely is going to be our defiant child, his favorite word now is "no." even when it doesn't make much since to say no.... He has been spending more time in "time out" than usual but I think he is just going thru that stage. He has become obsessed with Buzz and Woody, we watch Toy Story 3 every night, and the part in the beginning where they are riding on a train... that is his favorite part so he ask us to "rere" - rewind it to the train part over and over again. He is also counting to 10 and we are working on the ABC's we definitely have the beginning and the end.. the middle he likes to skip. He loves singing the Happy Birthday song whenever a candle, fire or anything that looks like it is fire is lit, and usually he likes for us to sing it with his name in the song. Still enjoys playing golf, and watching airplanes, but since football is on TV the most, that is the sport that he is playing the most of...
Parker - crawling so fast! He is keeping up with his brother for sure. He is already standing up on things and loves to have you hold his hands and pretend to walk. Evan tries to help but usually he falls because he is going to fast. Parker still smiles no matter what you do, if you are looking at him and saying his name he will smile back at you. He is definitely our sunshine!! He is so funny he makes noises constantly and when I say noises they are loud and go on for hours. Especially at dinner when he gets excited that's when the real noises come out. He is trying to talk... some say he says dadda but that's not for sure yet...

Coming up - Evan's 2nd birthday party - Santa is going to come and visit!
Lot's is going on around our house - I hope everyone is enjoying the fall season! God Bless,
Michelle
I'll add pictures later!

Happy Halloween!!

2010-10-31T21:37:00.008-05:00

So, today was Halloween and we made the most of the day and holiday. My parent's were in town not only for Halloween but also for the game and to help me since Ray is out of town hunting till Monday. After lunch we went to the club where they had a Halloween carnival for the kids, and hay ride. Evan's favorite games were the putt putt golf (of course) and the fishing game. It was so cute he wanted to keep going back to the fish game and look behind the curtain to see what really was going on back there. We skipped the hay ride for some time for the boys to hit golf balls. My dad took Evan to the range to let him hit some golf balls where it was safe to hit them. Afterwards we went back to the house so the boys could clean up and get ready for trick or treating! Jamie Davis, a very good friend of mine came over to help me with the boys since my parents had to get on the road. Monika Hatfield and Maya came over to pick us up on the golf cart and we set out into the neighborhood. The kids were so cute!! I am a little bias but everyone else seemed to agree. Monika has a daughter that is 6 months younger then Evan. So, she is right in between the two boys so we thought it would be so cute to dress them all in the same theme. I am so glad we did, because they were so cute as little Indian boys, and Maya as Pocahontas. We had a wonderful time and could not have asked for better weather. Now I am home obviously keeping up on the blog because my sister has only text me 20 times asking for more pictures of the boys at Halloween. So here they are aunt Mandy I hope you enjoy them!!!
God Bless and best wishes throughout the week,
Michelle

Evan is in love with airplane's

2010-10-28T23:02:00.004-05:00

Last weekend we went to Wal-Mart after the game and purchased a couple of Air hogs to see what Evan thought about flying airplanes vs. just watching them. Let's just say he loved it!! My dad had to drag him into the house after it rained on both of them enough to figure out that it would be smart to come inside. Below are a few pictures of them in the drive way flying them around.

Arkansas vs. Ole MIss

2010-10-28T22:47:00.009-05:00

Playing in the garage lead to trying on Daddy's helmet!

We finally won! Last weekend Arkansas played Ole Miss and finally was able to pull-out a win after two 45 minute rain delays. The first half of the game was exciting and we were able to get a few pictures from the game before the rain came down. We had a great time and lots of people came out to the tailgate. We had the Coffee family up for the weekend visiting, as well as the Drousts family. We had a great time, the house was full of people and fun! Here are some pictures from the weekend.

Sorry it has been so long....

2010-10-28T21:16:00.024-05:00

Pumpkin Patch 2010
We went to the Pumpkin Patch with Ray's parents and the Malone family. Ray's family left after the kids rode the donkey pull, and then we walked thru the pumpkin patch with the Malone family to find some pumpkins. The boys felt like it was a photograph session, and maybe it was but the pictures turned out great. I hope you enjoy viewing them, we sure had fun taking them!

Ray's parents came into town to visit the kids and join us at the pumpkin patch!

Evan's new love - airplane's
Every time my parent's are in town my dad takes Evan to see the airplanes. He loves watching them take off, fly over and visiting the pilots in the hangers.

Go Texas Ranger's beat the Yankee's!!!

Parker's first real crawl!!!

Arkansas vs. Alabama

Arkansas vs. Alabama tailgate! Go Hogs Go!

Parker - Razorback fan

Ray and Evan in his Sigma Nu Legacy T-Shirt

Parker and Dad

LPGA Golf Tournament at Pinnacle

Starting with the most recent!! Parker is crawling. Two weeks ago Parker took his first crawl forward on the golf course out on the range. We were watching Ray, Dad, and Evan hitting golf balls while Parker Ray crawled all the way to his nana. We are so excited and love watching him play with Evan. Evan is so excited now that he can crawl and chase after Evan.
Evan is talking a lot more. I think his favorite word is no.... we are having issues with him saying no every time we ask him to do something. He is at least cute while he is saying no.. Either way, the boys are both growing so fast, and getting along great. Parker loves watching Evan laugh and play in front of him. He sits there and laughs at him the entire time. Parker has two teeth on the bottom. Evan has a mouth full of teeth.
Here are some pictures from some events we have had recently.
Enjoy... sorry it has been a little busy, I will try harder to keep up with the blog better.

Malone's come over for dinner!

2010-09-19T22:23:00.003-05:00

A few weeks ago we had the Malone family over for dinner. The kids had a blast playing together, and we enjoyed the adult time as well! Thank you all so much for coming over, we definitely look forward to doing it again very soon. Here are some pictures of Evan and Ireland playing in the tub together! So cute!
God Bless,
Michelle

First football game for Parker!

2010-09-19T22:18:00.011-05:00

The Hogs win! This was the first Razorback football game for Parker and he did great, Evan did great as well. The weather was fabulous we could not have asked for better weather! The tailgate, food, and game were all great. We had a wonderful time and got some great pictures! Enjoy!
God Bless,
Michelle

New baby Kmiec

2010-08-30T16:44:00.003-05:00

Welcome to the world little Kmiec!
Last week Stephen Kmiec was brought into the world! We are so excited for you!
Congratulations and God Bless!
Stephen John Kmiec IV
Born on August 27, 2010 at 11:31 am
8 lbs 9 oz - 21 inches

loved by daddy Stephen and mommy Kristen Kmiec!

More pictures from the lake

2010-08-30T16:40:00.002-05:00

These are some random pictures of the boys on the boat, and then after.... as you can see Evan was worn out!

Evan wake surf's for the first time!

2010-08-30T16:26:00.004-05:00

This weekend we went with some of our friends to the lake. The boys had all wake surfed and I was joking with Evan when I asked him if he wanted to go, and he said yes! All of a sudden he was climbing out of the boat and jumping to his dad ready to go! Ray and him got up the first time! We have it on video and pictures. The video is to large so I will upload it to U tube so you can view it there, but until then here are some pictures of the big man! He loved it and we all did as well. We were so proud of him!
Enjoy the pictures!
Love Michelle

Bath time with both boys!

2010-08-30T16:20:00.004-05:00

They both love the bath, and the other night we put them both together to play in the water. Here are some great pictures of them together.
God Bless,
Michelle

Bid Day

2010-08-28T23:59:00.007-05:00

Over the past month or so I have been helping a friend's daughter of mine prepare for going thru Rush. I didn't care whether or not she went was I was (Tri Delta) or not, I honestly wanted her to be happy in where she ended up. I also wanted her to have a great rush where she was able to choose the house she felt like she fit in the most. She decided that house was Chi-o and the Chi-o house wanted her as well, so now she is a Chi-o. Below are some pictures from Bid-day, which is the day when all of the girls going thru rush find out what they are pledging. It is an exciting time. I can't imagine having a daughter going thru after how nervous I was for this little girl, but I have to admit it was so fun doing it all over again. Here are some pictures of us visiting the Tri-Delt house with the boys to show them to the house mom who is by the way my old pledge mom.

God Bless,
Michelle