The Ramsey Family

Reese Abigail is 3!!

2011-12-07T13:30:00.000-06:00

Happy 3rd Birthday to my sweet Reese Abigail! You are my mischievous comedienne. I love your dramatic expressions, your constant singing, your infectious giggle, and your all around zest for life! I love you, Puddin' Pie!!

For Reese's birthday, we had a purple fairy princess party. The kids played in all our dress up clothes and did a fashion show for all the parents. It was lots of fun!

The purple flower cake that Reese requested.

Even Blake wanted in on the action!

Lining up for the fashion show

Reese parading down the catwalk!

Several of the models - Noelle, Reese, Olivia, Thomas, Reagan, & Avery

Reese was so fast with the candles. The second Jason had them lit, she blew them out. He had to light them all over again, so we could sing to her before she blew them out.

Blake found someone smaller than him. He loved playing with Little Chad.

Reese is such a joy. She makes us laugh everyday. Right now, everything is a "myst-o-wee". She can't find something - "We have a myst-o-wee to solve!" She doesn't walk anywhere. She runs and is always asking someone to chase her. And, it's an adventure to get anywhere. She needs to go to the restroom - "I can't get they-ow(there)! I have to cwoss the bwidge, but the ghosts are coming! Huwwee, Mommy!! Huwwee (hurry)! Don't let them in the bafwoom!" But, she is alway so sweet. The other day she had a plastic pear stuck in a cup and asked me to help get it out. It was stuck pretty good and I was working it at. She said, "You can do it, Mommy! You are stwong. You are smart. I know you can do it!" You gotta love her!!

Fall Fun

2011-11-01T09:32:00.002-05:00

Grown Up Night at King's Island (like Six Flags for all you Texans)

We got a babysitter and met some of the other fellows for a night of roller coasters.

The wives - me and Natalie

The fellows - Eric, Sam, & Jason

There's a great pumpkin patch just 5 minutes from our house - Shaw Farms. We've been there several times this month. It's always lots of fun!

Daddy giving instructions - "Put your hands in the air like on a roller coaster!"

Our pumpkin family!

Going to a Halloween carnival at a friend's church

The Ramsey & Gardner kiddos - Reagan, Thomas, Avery, Brynlee, Blake, & Reese

Back to Shaw Farms - for the Corn Maze this time!

Blake loved riding in the wagon!

Reagan turns 5!!

2011-10-14T14:30:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday, Reagan! You are my precious princess, my beautiful ballerina, my happy helper, my inquisitive interrogator, my smart and sassy sweetheart. I love you!

We celebrated Reagan's 5th birthday with a party at a local farm that has a pumpkin patch and hayride. The kids had a great time!

Avery, Reagan, & Mary

Mary, Reagan, Avery

Mary, Reagan, Anna, Avery (Hannah behind them)

Our neighbors - The Weisensels (Karen, Hannah, & Emma)

Another neighbor - Olivia & her Daddy

Blowing out the candles!

Top: Reese, Mary, Tiara, Bottom: Avery, Reagan, & Olivia

Side 1 on the hayride - Jason, Reese, Bryan & Bryson, Mary & her sister, Olivia & her Daddy

Side 2 on the hayride - Tiara, Avery, Reaga, Hannah, Natalie & Blake

BLAKERS!!!! I love this picture of him!

Check out those blonde heads!

Reagan got a Barbie bicycle! Here she is riding it for the first time!!

Yes, Barbie gets to go for a ride on her own bike too!

Jason pushing the whole crew up the driveway!

Our first 6 wks in OH

2011-09-29T10:21:00.000-05:00

I'm playing catch-up. Here are lots of pictures from the last month and a half since we arrived here in Cincinnati.

Reagan's first day of school. I love the way Reese is looking up to her. She loves her big sister!

Sitting on the back of the couch - engrossed in Robin Hood.

Reagan's picture day!

Can't leave Reese out . . .

The girls had a Nature Hunt the other day with some neighbors.
Great leaf, Reese!

Reagan & Hannah trying to get a leaf off of the tree.
Don't they look so much alike?

And, we musn't forget Blake!!

He's crawling now and is all over the place!

Yummy!!

DeeDee came to Visit!

2011-09-28T16:04:00.000-05:00

I am so ridiculously behind on this blog. But, I am determined to catch up. Here goes . . .

So, we made it to Cinicinnati. We are finally feeling settled and getting into a routine. Maybe I'll be able to get several months worth of pictures up here soon.

DeeDee is back in the USA!!! We were so excited to have her come up and stay with us earlier this month. We all loved having her here. I know that I missed my baby sister, but it was obvious that I wasn't the only one. The kids absolutely loved having her here too. I wish I had gotten more pictures. Reese wanted to be by her side constantly. And, Blake even gave her sweet kisses - which he doesn't just bestow upon anyone. Thanks for visiting, DeeDee! We love you!!

We have a great zoo, so we had to make a trip there while DeeDee was here.

Riding the Zoo Train!

Blake looks so serious in all these pictures. He smiles all the time, I promise!

Happy Father's Day!!!

2011-06-19T21:30:00.002-05:00

Chillin' with the Sistas

2011-06-18T14:54:00.005-05:00

From April: From May:From June:

I love all of their expressions in these pictures!

Patty-Cake Patty-Cake Blakers Man

2011-06-16T15:19:00.007-05:00

Blakers, I love your laid back demeanor and your precious smile just melts my heart every time! You are my sweet, sweet boy!!

His favorite thing to do right now is scream at the top of his lungs. He just smiles and thinks it is the greatest thing ever. It's pretty cute the first time, but then it keeps going. What a mess!!

Practicing his screamNapping in Daddy's lap

We just introduced rice cereal to Blake and he's so excited about it. He's not that good at it yet, but he loves it. He so sweet.

Big Sister likes to help

Reesie Peesie Puddin' Pie

2011-06-16T15:07:00.000-05:00

Reesie, you are my mischievous, fearless, determined, snuggly, joyful, little bundle. Your sweet laugh and impish grin never fail to make me smile. I love you more than words!

Little Fashionista
Reese decided to race down a friend's super steep driveway on a trike. She tumbled and skid down. Both elbows and knees were scraped and bloody. And even her poor face took a beating. Poor, sweet girl.

Our Beautiful Ballerina

2011-06-16T14:56:00.005-05:00

We are so proud of you, Reagan! You are growing up to be such a beautiful young girl - inside and out. You are so smart, polite, and considerate of others. I couldn't love you more!

They danced to "The Lonely Goatherd" from The Sound of Music. I'll try to post the video soon. But, until then . . . here are some sweet pictures.

At the Dress RehearsalWith some girls in her class - Samantha, Reagan, Olivia, & Melanie
Reese just looking at Reagan. I thought this was precious!!

Me and my sweet girls

Recital DayOlivia, Belle, & Reagan - these girls have been in class together the past 2 years

My Mother's Day!

2011-05-15T20:39:00.012-05:00

At Mother's Day Out this year, the girls both did an interview about Mommy for Mother's Day. I thought their answers were precious, so I wanted to share a few.

How tall is your mom? Reese: "Big!" Reagan: "About up to here." (raised hands about 4ft)

What does your mom do when you're not around? Reese: "Be with Daddy." Reagan: "She never tells me, because I'm not around. Maybe she tries doing cartwheels."

What is your mom's favorite food? Reese: "Burritos!" Reagan: "I don't know , because she likes everything."

What is your mom really good at? Reese: "My bag." ?? Who knows? Reagan:"Washing our clothes, and making stuff, like our beds and stuff."

What is your mom not very good at? Reese: "Nothing!" Reagan: "Hula hooping."

How do you know your mom loves you? Reese: "She gives me a kiss!" Reagan: "She says I love you every single day. And we play together."

The girls also made sweet little flower handprints. They're attached to clothespins and magnets, so they hold artwork on the fridge.

I also got a pedicure and Jason and the girls washed my car. Jason even bathed the girls that night. I felt so pampered!! I love my wonderful hubby and my precious kiddos!!

Blogger drives me nuts!! I edit these posts forever trying to get rid of all this funky spacing, but it just keeps reappearing. Anyone know the secret?

Nana

2011-05-02T13:52:00.022-05:00

In February, my mother was diagnosed with ductal carcinoma (aka breast cancer). It was pretty scary for all of us. We took a last minute trip home to be there for her during her surgery. Jason had to go off to San Diego for his Academy conference, but the kiddos and I stayed for a week. Holly and her crew came down too. Even Danielle was able to get a leave and come back from Taipei. Mom had a mastectomy and they thought that would be all she would need. However, in April (yes, another rough spot to the month) she found out she would need chemo after all. She gets her port put in on Thursday and starts chemo Friday. She's quite the trooper though. Mom, we are so proud of how you have handled all of this! We love you so much and will continue to pray you through it!

Please keep my mom (aka Joanna, aka Nana) in your prayers.

Here are some fun pictures from our trip in February.
GramMary meeting her newest great-grandson! Gammy & Blakers Aunt Kathy meeting BlakeSweet smiles for Gammy
The kids chasing bubbles Pushing her sister on the swing Unky B & Blake

Sweet cousins! Reagan lovin' on Evan!

Reese loved the trains at Gammy's house!
So exciting to see DeeDee again!!!All the Ramsey kiddos on Aunt DeeDee Reading with DeeDee
Dancing with Cooper Chillin' with Uncle Stan The five Harrell Grandkids - Blake, Reese, Reagan, Payton, & CooperThe girls! Uncle Stan reading to Reagan & Payton Good snuggles from DeeDee Pops & Blakers Nana & Blakers Sweet hugs for Nana!

Tornado - April 15th

2011-05-02T13:28:00.002-05:00

About 2am on April 15th, we awoke to some loud noises. It was roaring and it felt like our house was shaking. The rain was pouring outside, and our power was gone. A few minutes later, the sirens started blaring. We looked out the back windows, but didn't check out front. When we did wake up and look out front, this is the first thing we saw.

A huge tree across the street had fallen and got pretty close to hitting Graeme's car (he had borrowed Jason's pickup).

The kids and I got dressed and went outside to see everything. Everyone in the neighborhood was out visiting (since no one had any power) and checking out the damage. This is the house across the street from us - with a tree on top of it. The tree fell from the backyard, so it is completely on the house.

This is the cul de sac across from us. To give you an idea of the size -if you look over on the right, you can see a teenage girl walking around the tree. This tree crushed a minivan. It's actually hidden under all those branches too.

This tree fell from the front of his house and has branches touching the ground in his living room. With all the repairs, they estimate it will be about 3 months before this house is livable again.

This is the only way out of our neighborhood. It is blocked by two huge fallen trees.

Reagan & Reese climbing on the trees blocking the road.

This is Markham Street. It's blocked by trees. And, check out all the downed power lines!!

The girls on the trees again. Check out how the roots just ripped out the ground around the tree.

Reese climbing the trees some more.

Another tree down in a neighbor's yard. Reagan, KeShuanna and Reese were climbing it too.

This is the tree in front of our house again. It's right behind our driveway. I wouldn't be able to get out if I wanted to. Not that I could go anywhere with the way out blocked anyway.

Lots of fallen branches in our backyard

Another HUGE fallen tree in our neighbors' backyard. The one landed on Wowo & Poppy's deck and the corner of their master bedroom. I saw the crack in their ceiling just over their bed. So scary!!

It hit not only their house, but the house next to them too - in their master bedroom as well.

And, with all these obstacles, Jason still managed to make it to work on time! The Goldings called to check on us when they saw on the news that it may have been near us. Which was good since we had no power, thus no alarm. Then, when Jason discovered he couldn't get out onto Markham, he walked to Burlington Coat Factory. Graeme picked him up there and dropped him off at the hospital.

Then, Graeme came to the rescue again. About 6pm, he hiked into our neighborhood and helped the kiddos and I hike out. He carried 2 car seats and a pack-n-play while I pushed the double stroller loaded down with baby, bags, Blake's suction machine, and a few toys. Whew. . . Then, the Goldings let us crash at their place for the next 4 nights while we waited to get cleared roads and power.

Since Markham was blocked too, the tree services couldn't get to us, so Graeme (and Jason until he got called in) got out with chain saws and started cutting up the trees to clear the roads. Other neighbors and friends & family of neighbors came out to join them. It was pretty neat to see people coming together like that!

Thank God for wonderful friends! We love you Graeme and Wendy!!

April

2011-05-01T13:50:00.006-05:00

April was a rough month around here.

It started off with Blake being admitted back into Children's Hospital. We spent the 1st-5th back at ACH. He was on oxygen and had an IV, but no ventilator or time in PICU this time. Soon after being discharged our pediatrician prescribed a steroid inhaler. Blake has to use it twice a day until he's 6 months old, then we'll reevaluate. He still sounds pretty junky - snotty and wheezy - all the time, but hopefully that will pass soon.
Early morning (2am) on the 15th, a tornado whipped down our street. It uprooted enormous trees that crashed into houses, crushed vehicles, and blocked streets. We even had two huge trees blocking the only way out of our neighborhood. It looked like a warzone. We were out of power for 4 days, and had no phone or internet for over a week. A post will be coming soon with all of the pictures.

On April 22nd, our beautiful Tessabelle passed away. She was 12 1/2. The vet said it was a heart attack. She has been Jason's baby since he was in college. We buried her in the backyard and had a very sweet little service for her. Reagan cried and cried. She said, "This is the saddest day ever in my whole life."

We're praying for a much better month of May.

Our Sick Little Guy

2011-03-18T15:55:00.010-05:00

I think the best way to illustrate our last 2 weeks is through my emails. They showed the emotion and the details.

Sent Tuesday, March 8th:

We're needing some prayers. Blake has RSV. We are in the PICU at Arkansas Children's Hospital. They intubated him last night. Now we are just waiting. Jason's mom flew in late last night and is staying with the girls. What we really need are prayers. Pray that Blake will respond well to the vent and that his little body will heal. The doctor estimated that he may be on the vent for a week. Please pray for me too. I didn't know I had this many tears. Just when I think I have it under control, I lose it again. It's hard to see your little one like this.

Sent Friday, March 11th (morning):

Thank you all so much for all the prayers. We are definitely feeling them, and he is definitely improving. Yesterday:

they removed the catheter - yea!
he peed on his own - yea!
he had his first poops since monday - yea!
they lowered his morphine - yea!
then he started squirming and messing with his tubes, so they put him in wrist restraints - boo!
they lowered the pressure on his lungs - yea!
his lungs are sounding better - yea!

So, overall it was definitely a good day. Our night nurse last night was the same one we had our first night (Monday). And, she kept going on about how much better he looked and sounded since then.

The doctor just came in and they are planning to get him off the vent this afternoon - YEA!!!!! They are stopping his feedings and lowering the morphine right now. This is such a huge praise. From the beginning, we were told that the average for rsv babies on the vent is one week, and we have only been on for 3 1/2 days. Half of that! I know that is due to our awesome God! He is answering all those prayers. Thank you all so much!

I'll let you all know when he's off and I get to hold him again.

Sent Friday, March 11th (evening):

Blake was extubated at 4:50 this afternoon. He's doing great!!! I got to hold him and loved every minute of it. His Daddy is holding him now.

We should be here in the PICU for one more night, then onto the floor in a regular room tomorrow. Hopefully home by Sunday or Monday.

Thanks again for all the prayers! We serve an awesome God!

Sent Saturday, March 12th:

He is off the oxygen and breathing great on his own. They will be moving us out of PICU soon.

New prayer request - that Blake will nurse. So far, he just screams or falls asleep. We can't go home till he remembers how to do it. They are giving us one more try before they start the milk in the feeding tube again - which will just delay getting home.

God is good. He can do this!

Sent Monday, March 14th:

We're still at ACH. Blake is doing great. He is off of everything but the feeding tube. Poor guy is having trouble nursing. He does great for about 10 minutes, then he gets choked - which can lead to aspirating and pneumonia. They tried several bottles, but he can't seem to figure out how to suck on them. We can't leave till he is nursing or taking the bottle well. Keep praying that he will be able to eat on his own.

Sent Tuesday night, March 15th(after 9 days in the hospital):

We're home!! Praise the Lord!!!! Blake nursed several times today and did a great job, so they took out the feeding tube and let us come home. It is so nice to be back with my whole family under one roof. Thank you all so much for praying for the little guy.

Taken shortly after his feeding tube was finally removed from his nose - A happy tubefree baby!

Smiles, Hair, & More

2011-02-23T21:15:00.007-06:00

Blake has been blessing us with some great smiles over the last few weeks. Here are a few I caught on camera.

Is this not the sweetest grin ever??

Sweet pre-grin face Gazing adoringly at his big sister Reagan

Looking a bit scared of his other sister Reese Enjoying his playmat

Happy Valentine's Day!!

Another Daddy Daughter Date Night -

Reagan's picks: PeiWei then on to IHOP for dessert

Reagan demonstrating her dancing skillsHer pretty "dancing hands"
Reese getting in on the action

Reese - not quite awake after a nap and mess with her drink Then 5 minutes later . . . Kisses from Minnie
And, now . . .

Reagan's new hair cut! Doesn't she look so grown up??

Dates, Snow, & Super Bowl

2011-02-07T10:28:00.004-06:00

Daddy Daughter Date Night - Reese's 1st one!

She chose McDonald's and Daddy chose to follow it with frozen yogurt from Orange Leaf.In matching black boots! The ones on Reese are actually Blake's, but they won't fit him for a while.

SNOW DAY!!!

Reagan and her latest boyfriend

Blake slept like this at the Calhoun Super Bowl party for about an hour.

Gotta love it! 2 years ago at the Calhoun Super Bowl Party -

On the same couch, sleeping in Daddy's arms, while he watches football

Deja vu!

Blakers

2011-02-04T17:56:00.005-06:00

I'm sorry I have been such a terrible blogger lately. There have been requests for pictures of Blake. So, I'm happy to oblige. Here are some pictures of Blake, his Daddy, and his doting sisters!

My boys napping Sweet kisses from Reagan

Reagan's picture of Blake - Don't you love the hair?

See a resemblance? Sleeping angel

Handsome fella

Sweet sugar from Reese

Snuggles from Reagan

Just chillin'

December - PreBlake

2011-01-18T15:23:00.004-06:00

Here are some fun pics of the kiddos from last month. I'm a little behind, I know.

Reese found a pink marker. It's hard to discipline them when they are this cute.

So proud of her green tongue! Decorating cookies at Toys R Us

Meeting Santa

Sweet girl!!

Blake's semi-completed Christmas stocking - It only took me 6 months to complete!

Ramsey Family Photo Shoot

2011-01-05T14:30:00.008-06:00

featuring Baby Blake . . . by Graeme

Meet Blake!!

2010-12-21T14:40:00.005-06:00

Blake Harrell Ramsey arrived on December 18th at 7:38am.

He was 7lb, 9oz, and 20in long.

Being admired by Mommy & Daddy about 20 minutes after he arrived.

My precious kiddos!! Me & my crew!
Our family of FIVE!!

Reagan loves her new little brother. She wants to hold him all the time! The day he was born she held him, rocked him, and sang him songs (Happy Birthday, Twinkle Twinkle, etc.). So precious!!

My boys napping

Mommy checking out little Blake

Daddy waiting to take Blake home

All bundled up and ready to go. Big yawn!!

Blake's Nursery

2010-12-09T16:57:00.005-06:00

The nursery is complete. Now, we are just waiting on the little one to arrive. I love how it all turned out. There were lots of contributions from family on both sides. It makes it extra special!

Precious Door sign by Aunt Holly

Crib that was used by both of Blake's sisters, Bed Skirt & Valances by Nana

Pillow by Nana

Jason's Cowboy Hats

Jason & I made this one! Gammy's Wonderful Quilt!!

Picture that belonged to Jason's brother Blake

Hamper by Nana Painting by Gampy & Boots that belonged to my Granddaddy Pete

Thanksgiving in Branson

2010-12-01T14:42:00.003-06:00

Jason and I have been talking about making a trip to Branson since we moved to Little Rock. Since we don't have much longer here, we realized we needed to go now or it wasn't going to happen. So, we headed up there on Thanksgiving Day. We had a great time. Lots of eating, shopping, shows, & Christmas lights. I got in some fantastic Black Friday shopping at the outlet mall. They opened at midnight. I couldn't sleep well, so I went shopping at 4am, and was back in bed at the hotel around 6:15am. No one even noticed I was gone!

We went to 2 Christmas dinner theater shows. The Dixie Stampede was lots of fun. They fed us tons of food while we watched a cute show with trick riders on horses and competing sides. We also saw Christmas on the Trail at the Shepherd of the Hills. It included a chuckwagon dinner while cowboys ang Christmas carols and told Cowboy Christmas stories. We did 2 drive-thru Christmas light displays. Poor Reese fell asleep before we made it into either one, so she missed all the neat lights. Reagan and I even managed to squeeze in an afternoon showing of Tangled. Overall, it was a great trip. Our first real family vacation!

This was Reese's favorite thing to do in our hotel room. Everytime we looked up she had climbed up onto the luggage rack. She used to it to climb on the bathroom counter, to hang out (as pictured), as a bridge to cross from one bed to another, to hang Minnie from, etc. Who knew a luggage rack could be endless fun?

The Classic Big Rocker

In case you missed it at the top, I added this fun picture again.
I would love to have come cute little caption to go with it, but I'm too tired to work my brain and come up with something. If you've got an idea, feel free to leave it in the comments.

Happy 2nd Birthday, Reese!!

2010-11-24T15:17:00.008-06:00

This weekend we celebrated Reese's 2nd Birthday! I can't believe she's 2 years old already. She's our sweet, fearless, bundle of joy, and she makes everyday so much fun! We love you very much, Reese Abigail!!

The precious birthday girl!! The Minnie Mouse birthday cake Look at her checking out her cake!! So sweet!

And, check out my big big belly! Reese will be a big sister soon!! Yummy!!

Sweet sisters!!

And, we can't have "Party Pics by Graeme" without the infamous eating pictures!

Reese

Paisley & Elijah KeShuanna

Jacob

Grace

Reese

Daddy getting sweet hugs from Reagan

Digging into her presents!

Reading cards with Mommy
The Ramsey Clan

As always - Thank you so much, Graeme, for the wonderful party pictures!!

And, thanks to all who celebrated our little one with us!!

Blake's Baby Shower

2010-11-19T21:48:00.009-06:00

Thank you so much to all of our wonderful friends for throwing us a baby shower to help welcome little Blake!! We felt very loved!!!

Check out the precious lil' Cowboy cake! Rebecca & her sweet family drove up to see us all for the weekend!!

All the fellas at the grill Reagan & Alex playing ball

Check out Reagan's heels - very appropriate soccer attire.

Reese wanted to play ball too!The How FamilyJennifer & Andrew

Reese was mesmerized by that cake, while Reagan was distracted by Daddy's bunny ears!I see that! My precious friend Wendy!

Reester Peester

Sweet Sisters!

Our attempts at a family picture!

There were many many more photos (Thanks, Graeme), but I couldn't post them all.

Wicked!!!!

2010-11-11T06:53:00.006-06:00

On our way to enjoy the show!!

Last week, we took Reagan to see Wicked. It was sooo much fun! She loved it. She wore her Galinda/Glinda dress, and got comments on how beautiful she was from everyone we saw (literally 50 people). And, she loved it! She asked a million question throughout the show, but luckily we had nice people sitting behind us that didn't complain. Mainly she wanted to know why we all laughed at certain lines - some of it was a bit over the head of a 4-year old. But, she would laugh along and sing along and snuggle with her Daddy, then lean over and snuggle with her Mommy. Toward the end, she was getting tired (it was 2 hrs past her bedtime), but she was not willing to close her eyes and miss a minute of the show. At one point she leaned over and said, "I miss Reese." I thought that was precious too. She doesn't get to do much with us without her sister, and she missed her. I do love my girls!!!

It was one of those moments I think I'll remember for ages. Just the look on Reagan's face and her sheer enjoyment throughout the night. My wonderful husband sitting on the other side of our daughter, holding my hand, kissing it, and smiling at me. Who could ask for a better night?

Happy Halloween from Oz!

2010-10-31T20:35:00.005-05:00

Dorothy & Glinda off for Adventures in Oz

Sweet Dorothy (aka Reester Peester)

Glamorous Glinda

Jack-o-lantern Time!!

2010-10-28T16:39:00.004-05:00

Cleaning out the Goo!The girls wanted a Minnie Mouse pumpkin this year, so that's what we did. I think it turned out well. We all had fun making it. I even roasted the pumpkin seeds too. Yummy!

They're all saying, "MINNIE MOUSE!!!"

Cousins!!!

2010-10-25T13:51:00.006-05:00

The girls and I were in Texas last week playing with family. We always have a great time with all of them. We stayed with my parents. My sister, Holly, and her kiddos, Payton & Cooper, were in town too. We also got to spend a day with Jason's mom and brother's family (Bryan, Alli, Evan, & Cooper). As you can see by the pictures, fun times were had by all!!

Nana had lots of fun dress-up clothes for the girls. They wore them all day every day!

Reese, Reagan, & Payton

Payton & Reagan

Holly & Cooper!

I love their faces! Reese & Payton - Poor pouty girls
GramMary with her great grandkiddos

Pops & Coop

Going for a fashionable walk around the neighborhood

These 2 are a quite the pair! They were up to mischief every time we turned around! Nana & Coop

Cheering on the Littlefield Wildcats at the pep rally

Watching the balloon fly away

Waiting on lunch at Whataburger! (YUMMY!)

Evan, Reagan, & Reese Reese & Bryson in the Thomas tentEvan & Reagan riding trucks
What a pair!! Ooh, I like trains!! Reese had a ball with the train set.

You can see my huge belly in the background too! Gammy's Munchkins Unky B with Reagan and Evan Sweet hugs!! Me & Alli

Big Girl Bedroom

2010-10-11T15:34:00.006-05:00

It's official! Reese has moved in to the Big Girl Bedroom with Reagan. She started sleeping in there last Thursday, and she has done great!! We are so proud of her!!!

Here is her very own bunk!!

The first night, I heard a THUD and "Mommy!!" about 1:30am when Reese fell out of the bed. But, I scooped her up, put a pillow beside her, and she was just fine. The second night, I heard her calling me about 3:15am, but she wasn't crying. I went in to find an empty bed. When I said, "Reese, where are you?", she came crawling out from under the bed. I don't know how long she'd been there! But, the last two nights have been uneventful.

Good night!!

Edited 10/12: Naptime today was exactly how I expected the room sharing to go. Although the girls were in their room for 2 hours, there was no napping. There was a lot of talking, a lot of laughing, a lot of "Mommy, Reese is out of bed again!" Once I went in to find Reese under the bed. Once I found her on the top bunk with Reagan. Once I found her standing at the door. Another time she was jumping on her bed. I'm just surprised it took Reese this long to attempt all that. Needless to say, they will be going to be early tonight.

Reagan's Wonderful Wizard of Oz Party

2010-10-04T13:49:00.011-05:00

The Jump!Zone was invaded by the Wizard of Oz yesterday. And, Reagan loved every minute of it! Cast of characters: Reagan as Galinda/Glinda, Reese as Dorothy, Daddy as the Scarecrow, Mommy as the Wicked Witch, Graeme as the Tin Man, and Clay as the Munchkin Mayor. There were lots of other munchkins in attendance as well. Reagan was so excited to have so many friends come to celebrate her 4th birthday with her. Thanks to all!! Here are lots of pictures of all the fun!!

The Fam!!

The cake

Reagan in Action!!

Reesie & Graeme - I love this pic!

Sweet friends - Elizabeth & Garrett, Iris, me, & Jennifer Daddy & ReesterThe Glasgows

Me & Elizabeth

The Wicked Witch caught Dorothy at last!!Reagan loving the slides!Munchkins!!!

GraceHappyStacie & Caleb Munchkin Mayor Clay & AndrewIris & KekoaWendy & ReeseKeShuannaElijahOliviaSamanthaNatalieKatie Jo - another Glinda!Caroline

Aysia

Daniel

I love my little birthday girl!!

The photographers - Wendy & Tin Man Graeme

Cake Time!

Comparing Capri Suns- Samantha, Reagan, Norah, & BellaReagan & NorahEnjoying the cakeDaddy has lollipops!!The crew from OzI love my girls!!

Sisters = BFFs

2010-09-21T13:45:00.008-05:00

I absolutley love watching my girls play together!! They are such good friends - they laugh, play, fight, cry, you name it! And, I love every minute of it! Here are some pictures of their latest adventures! They've run endlessly around the yard, made a boat from a box, made a clubhouse from the kitchen table, etc., etc.

Playing in the Yard The Box

The clubhouse!

They even filled it with goodies - babies, colors, coloring books, etc.

Presentation & Playtime

2010-09-17T13:50:00.008-05:00

Last Friday, Jason presented his research project at the Orthopaedic Forum. He has been working on it for quite some time, and he did a wonderful job. He felt really good about it and he received excellent feedback from those in attendance. We are all so proud of him!

Here are all four of the chiefs after their presentations.

Jason, Karen, BJ, & Jody

We've all missed Jason on this busy rotation while he's been working so hard in Trauma and on this project. To celebrate his completion of the presentation, we played all weekend. On Saturday, we went to several new playgrounds and had a ball! Then on Sunday evening, we went to Jump!Zone - which is one of Reagan's absolute favorite places. The girls loved playing with their Daddy!!!

Video Update

2010-09-10T14:42:00.004-05:00

Some of our neighbors have been making up cheers and teaching them to Reagan and Reese. Enjoy!

Reese loves to run laps around the living room or the kitchen island singing. This was a bunch of jibberish, but now she's started to sound like she's really singing.

These videos are both over a month old, but they are still cute!!

Reesie: Our Lovable Mischievous Comedienne

2010-08-31T14:25:00.004-05:00

What can I say? Reese is constantly entertaining all of us. She makes us laugh a hundred times a day. From sticking her carrot sticks up her nose to her daily singing laps around the kitchen island. Her vocabulary is growing every day. Although, I think Reagan (Nay-Nay) and I may be the only ones that understand her some of the time. She loves saying Mama. This is what I hear all day: "Hep me, Mama! Look, Mama! Uh-oh, Mama! No, Nay-Nay! Dank-00, Mama!" She likes to sit on the potty too. She climbs up on the big potty and sits quite often - with or without help, with or without a diaper. She did tell me the other day, "Poo-poo potty!" So, I sat her on the potty and she poo-pooed! She has since told me that several times a day, but has yet to repeat her original feat. She has a contagious smile, and you can't help but grin back at her!

My Sweetness!

Playing with Noah's ark

Cheering

My view when I passed the bathroomWhen asked what she was doing, this was her response.

She loves to read!

Playing with tape - check out her cheek and hand

Sitting on the potty

Bucket on the head - another daily event

Pudding Monster

Quotable Reagan

2010-08-28T10:57:00.001-05:00

She narrates for her Barbies. Instead of just "What are you doing?" "Nothing, what are you doing?" Reagan says, "'What are you doing?' 'Nothing,' he answered."
My favorite was -"'I don't mind,' he said sheepishly."
My guess is it's from reading so much. She's really into chapter books right now, and that's how they say things in the books. She must have heard the word sheepishly from books too. I don't think it's a word I use too often.

While talking to DeeDee on skype, "A friend of mine is coming over. Her name is N-O-R-A-H. That's how you spell it, that's not how you say it."

She keeps telling me she wants a Scooby Doo Birthday Party. She's never even seen it, but it's on her yogurt that she eats every day. I told Reagan that everytime I tell someone that's what she wants, they say how scary it is. Her response - "Then don't tell them."

"Let's play duck-duck-goose! I'll be the gooser!"

Her favorite joke (she made it up) - "Knock - knock!" Who's there? "Potatohead!" Potatohead who? "Potatohead Lawnmower!"

A Cowboy in the Midst of the Princesses

2010-08-26T09:06:00.003-05:00

Meet the soon-to-be newest member of the Ramsey Family!!

Blake Harrell Ramsey*

Sweet feet!!

Lettin' it all hang out!
Definitely a boy!!

We're all very excited to welcome the little guy into the world in December.
I told the girls that if they talk to him a lot, then when he arrives he'll recognize their voices. They love putting their hands on my belly and talking to him. Reese says, "Hey, Bake!! Hey, Bake!" He just kicks when they do it. He's going to love his big sisters!!

*we're pretty sure on the name, but it is subject to change

Pops and Nana in Little Rock

2010-08-16T12:50:00.006-05:00

My parents came in this weekend for a quick visit. They got here Friday around lunch then left Sunday afternoon. We crammed in as much fun as we all could handle - from swimming at the hotel to playing downtown.

My parents!! Gotta love 'em!!

These glasses from Pops & Nana were endless fun!

Pops reading to Reagan - as usual Swimming

I just want to touch it!
I just wanted to touch it.

Loving on Nana

Thanks for coming to visit, Nana & Pops! We love you!!

Matchy Matchy From Nana & More

2010-08-11T10:01:00.004-05:00

My mom, Nana, made me a few comfy summer dresses. Those really are the only thing that are comfortable in this triple digit heat with a burgeoning belly. And, she thought it would be fun to make matching ones for Reagan & Reese. On Sunday morning, the girls were already dressed when I came out in my dress. Reagan then wanted to wear her matching one. Which, of course, led to Reese needing to wear hers as well. So, we all sported matching dresses!

Sometimes 3 year-olds don't want to cooperate for picures.

So, they get ousted! Reese was more than happy to pose with Mommy! You can definitely see the belly in this shot!

Reese was posing, but didn't want to miss out on what Reagan was doing. She was watching her closely!

The girls were playing with clay from Gammy when Reese decided to make jewelry with hers.

Monkey See Monkey Do works both ways around here. So, Reagan decided she needed earrings too.

So proud of her invention!

And, if you are wondering - yes, it is quite a hassle to get clay from hair and ear canals!

Fashion Shows

2010-08-05T20:33:00.003-05:00

Reagan's dress-up collection is growing, and she and Reese love to show it off. They have started putting on fashion shows for us. Here are a few pictures from some of the latest fashion shows.

My divas!!

Bunk Beds!!

2010-08-05T15:11:00.003-05:00

With the new baby on the way, we're starting to rearrange things around here. I found a great deal on some bunk beds a few weeks ago, so I jumped on it. Soon the girls will be sharing a room. Here is Reagan showing off the new bed! Reese checking out the empty room before I put the beds together. Reagan will sleep on top and Reese will have the bottom. But, for now, Reagan is still sleeping on the bottom.
Fun times on the top bunk!

My little model!

They both love climbing up on the top. Reese is so quick at it too. She doesn't let her small size slow her down. I really have to keep an eye on her. The rule is "No Climbing on the top bunk if Mommy is not in the room." It's not always followed, but we're working on it.

Kidneys & Noses

2010-08-05T14:54:00.002-05:00

Jason gave us all a bit of a scare Monday night. After throwing up and several scalding baths and showers to alleviate the pain, Jason went to the ER where he learned he had a large kidney stone. Some good painkillers made life better for a bit, but yesterday morning they had to surgically remove it. Must be a magic surgery, because he was back to his normal self last night. He was starving and ate a bunch, then wanted a milkshake, so we headed to Sonic. Then he played Memory with Reagan and read bedtime stories to the girls. He even headed to work today!! So grateful he is better.

For the past 2 1/2 - 3 months I've been suffering from rhinitis of pregnancy. I'd never even heard of it before. Yeah, I've got allergies and I'm used to being a bit congested or having a runny nose for a day or 2. But, this is really getting ridiculous. I haven't really been able to breathe out of my nose in months. But, even with it closed off to air it still manages to drip a steady stream of snot. I've gone through more tissue boxes than I can count. My poor nose it constantly red, raw, and peeling from all the tissues. My ears hurt all the time from the pressure and I can't hear well. Don't even get me started on sleeping - it's not easy when you can't breathe. I've tried nasal spray, benadryl, sudafed, nasal rinses, saline spray, zyrtec, etc. If anyone has any magic remedy to recommend, I'm all ears.

So, other than kidneys and noses, the Ramseys are fine. The girls are wonderful and are always such fun! And, we're all getting excited about the new baby joining us at Christmas.

Baby News!

2010-07-22T17:17:00.003-05:00

I had an OB visit last Friday and my new doctor did an ultrasound. She told us not to run out and buy anything, but that she was abou 85% sure of the gender. Jason wasn't able to make it to the appointment, and we wanted to find out together, and the doctor was super sweet about it. She had me look away for a few minutes while she printed a few more pics, she drew arrows and labeled them, then she sealed them in an envelope. I left the office and drove to the hospital where Jason ran down to meet me, so we could open the envelope together. According to her, it looks like Baby #3 is a little boy.

I still don't know that I believe it, but we're excited. Reagan totally denied it for several days, but she's coming to accept it now. I think she's excited about having a little brother too. Reese doesn't really get it. Like most kids her age, she thinks there's a baby in her belly too.

I am terrible. I have since lost all the ultrasound pictures. I haven't seen them since last Friday - the day of the ultrasound. I have torn my house us - top to bottom - searching for them. How does an envelope full of pictures disappear? My guess is a little 20 month old got a hold of them, so there really is no telling where they will turn up. I was intending to announce the gender sooner, but I kept hoping the pictures would show up so I could post all this information with the cute shots and the doctors labels. But, no such luck!

My little girl is getting so big!

2010-07-14T11:08:00.003-05:00

They really do grow up so fast! Last night we were at Cheeburger Cheeburger and Reagan was coloring the kids menu as usual. But, I looked at her coloring and was amazed! She usually is all over the place - outside the lines and not even close to anything resembling a real picture. How did she go from that to this - seemingly overnight?

Reagan's Milkshake ArtworkI don't know when they usually start figuring out how coloring really works, but I was pretty impressed with this at 3 1/2. She even got creative and made some of them rainbow ice cream!

Where did my baby go?

June Fun!

2010-07-06T15:51:00.007-05:00

I'm pretty far behind, so this is going to be a really long post. Enjoy!

Reagan showing off her soccer game she made at Home Depot. She hammered in the nails, screwed the screws, put the stickers on, etc. She even got a cool orange apron. All that while wearing a dress and heels! Pretty impressive!Reese also got a cool orange apron. What hams! Sweaty Daddy pulling the girls in the trailer. They were all so hot, but they loved it!Sweet ReesePrincess Reagan Dress Up FunFun in Houston with Payton & CooperCooper & the girlsSweet cousins - Payton & ReaganReagan holding her new cousin CooperMe & my new nephew!

Reagan's Dance RecitalReagan & Alex getting ready to performMe & my lil' dancer!

The actual performance on the stage in Robinson Theater. Shake Shake Sonora!

For those who can't enough, here's another video from the dress rehearsal. I forgot Reagan's tap shoes, so she's in her flip flops. It didn't seem to slow her down though! Don't they look like they're having fun?!?!

Saying Bye to Friends

2010-06-24T13:19:00.005-05:00

Some of our closest friends are moving to Mississippi today. We will miss the Lee Family greatly. We wish you the best of luck in Jackson!

A few weeks ago we had a going away party for them with lots of good friends, good food, and little munchkins. We have such a great group of friends here! We love you all! It is hard to think that we will be the ones leaving next year. Looking at all the little ones running around was just amazing. In the 4 short years we've been here, so many kids have joined our crew! And, there was even another birth since these pics were taken. Welcome, little Garrett Hallum!!

Some early preparatory group shots - check out the expressions on the front few rows!

Rebecca T is our professional braider. She always braids the girls hair when we get together. Poor Caroline was not excited about her hair being braided and cried the whole time. Becky was going so fast and was jubilant to complete it. Yea, Becky! Good job! It looks beautiful, Caroline!

Reagan & Alex showing off their Becky specials!

One of the guests of honor, Rebecca L, chatting with the gals

The other guest of honor, Chris, chatting with the boys

I love these girls!! Me, Wendy, Rebecca, & David

Gammy's Visit

2010-06-05T14:51:00.009-05:00

Jason's mom, aka Gammy, came to visit last week. She stayed with the girls while Jason & I attended the annual Ortho Retreat over the weekend. Then she stayed the rest of the week to visit. We all had a great time. She stayed at a hotel, and she invited Reagan to stay with her. So, every night, I'd drop them off at the hotel around 8pm, then Reese and I would show up the next morning around 7:30am for the continental breakfast. We'd proceed from there to the swimming pool. The girls had a ball playing in the water. I wouldn't call it swimming - Reagan refused to leave the steps - but she still had lots of fun. She would play for 2-3 hours on those steps. Reese liked to sit back and chill with the floatie - in the water or out of it. We were all sad to see Gammy go back home. Thanks for coming to see us, Gammy! We love you!

Reese getting some Gammy time

Pool Time

18 months of Joy with Reesie Piecie

2010-05-28T12:42:00.010-05:00

Our Reesie is getting to be such a big girl. She is a big ball of fun. She loves to dress up. Her choice of ensembles are quite unique - complete with mismatched shoes. She loves to take care of her baby. She pushes her around in the stroller, sings to her, rocks her, and changes her diaper. That should all come in handy when her new little brother or sister arrives at Christmas. She is talking up a storm now too- she has about 50 words. A few of her current favorites: bye-bye, baby, backpack, puppy, bubble, dide (outside), tutu, knock-knock, etc. And, she is always so affectionate. She has a never-ending supply of hugs and kisses for everyone. I call her "My Sweetness!"

Jason thinks we need to photoshop a guitar in this picture.

Rock on!!! Our fashionista!Goin' for a ride in her baby's stroller
Lovin' on her baby

Baby even gets powder. Musn't neglect those cheeks!

Playing in Texas

2010-05-12T11:57:00.007-05:00

We spent all of last week in Texas visiting our families. Reagan and Reese had a great time playing with everyone. They love their cousins!! Reagan and Evan could play and tattle on one another all day long. They are quite the pair! And, Reese just followed them around. They were sweet to include her most of the time. Bryson turned one while we were there, and he'll soon be chasing after the others as well!! Here are a handful of pictures from the trip.

My nephew Bryson, Reagan, Reese, & my great-niece Brogan And, we persuaded Evan to join in

Grinnin' on the slide

Posin' on the bridge

Loving the swings with Daddy!!
The "twins" - Reagan & Evan Unky B & Bryson Reagan & Pops drying the van after a washReesie goin' for a ride Pops & Reagan picking flowers - she's a bit obsessed
Showing off her "bouquet"

Checking out all the neat stuff at the Science Spectrum in Lubbock

"Whoa, those are big teeth, Mommy!"

Concerts and Fun

2010-04-23T12:41:00.008-05:00

Last post from our trip - I promise!

Look at those big brown eyes!!Holly & a chocolate covered PaytonMe & my princessReagan & Pops Payton sure does have fun toys!Look at the faces on those girls! They LOVE their Pops!!!

Pops playing with Reesie on the stairs Pops, Nana, & their girls
Sweet sugars for Pops!Reagan and Payton found Karaoke microphones and decided to give us a concert. It was hysterical!! They ran around the room singing and dancing. What a pair!! Even Reese had to get in on the action!

Holly's Baby Shower

2010-04-23T06:47:00.004-05:00

Helping Aunt Holly open presents - while DeeDee watches
Nana & her girlsThe shower was at Holly's friend Kim's house. Kim has identical twin boys. Reagan and Reese had fun playing with their toys.

Reagan's attempt at t-ball - not bad!Reese's attempt at t-ball - hmmm, we might need to work on that a bit.

Me, Reese, Nana, Reagan, Holly, Payton, Holly's mother-in-law Angie, neice Katelyn, and sister-in-law Erin

Katelyn (just a few months younger than Reese), Payton, Reagan, & ReeseMy little model!

Popscicles and the Beach

2010-04-20T13:47:00.004-05:00

We drove down to Galveston one day to hit the beach. My girls had never been before. Reagan loved it. Reese wasn't too crazy about the sand. She was better just looking at shells from the towel. Reagan and Payton built a sand castle, saw jellyfish, put their feet in the water (too windy to swim), collected seashells, and buried Pops' legs in the sand. What fun!?!?

Popscicles!!

DeeDee's Presents

2010-04-20T13:17:00.006-05:00

The girls and I spent last week in Houston with my family. My sister Holly is 8 months pregnant, and we went down for her baby shower. The girls always love playing with their cousin Payton and with Pops and Nana. There are a bajillion pictures, so I'm going to approach it like Holly did with several posts. Today's first post will be about the many gifts from Taiwan. DeeDee sent a package with lots of goodies for everyone. It was like Christmas! Purses and scarves for the Mommies, ties, keychains. and face masks for the Daddies, candies, light-up music playing toys, puzzles, doll dresses, shoes, Princess sticker books for the kiddos, and Taiwanese money and name banners for all. If you can't tell from the pictures, the girls loved the toys!

Enjoying the gummies!

The favorite toy! It doesn't do it justice if you can't hear it though.

DeeDee also got to be a part of the baby shower. It was midnight in Taipei, but Danielle got on skype and got to be there. It was neat that she didn't have to miss it. Don't you love technology?!?! We love you, DeeDee!

Here's Holly opening gifts with DeeDee at her side and some assistance from 3 little ones. There's a bit of a glare on the computer screen, but it's DeeDee.

Fellowship News

2010-04-14T07:27:00.004-05:00

Yesterday was the big day. We found out where Jason was selected to go for his Sports Fellowship.

Are you ready?

(drumroll, please)

Cincinnati

Next summer, the Ramsey clan will be headed to Cincinnati. Which is not really referred to as Cincinnati, OH, but Cincinnati USA. Because the metro area includes northern Kentucky and Eastern Indiana. You learn something new everyday!

This program is supposed to be really family friendly, so we are all excited about that. Jason thinks they even provide family passes to the zoo and other places like that.

So, will you guys be coming to visit us?

Our New Toy!!

2010-04-11T09:10:00.006-05:00

I never knew a minivan could make me so happy!! I'm lovin' it!!!

It has the navigations system so we won't get lost, the dvd player to entertain the girls, and the back-up cam so I won't back into my husband's pickup again. We're all set!!

What color does it look to you? Everyone we ask thinks it's something different.

Our Reester Bunny!

2010-04-06T20:16:00.000-05:00

Happy Easter!!

2010-04-05T13:29:00.005-05:00

We got to celebrate Easter with some good friends this year. Graeme & Wendy, and Chris, Rebecca, Alex, & David came over for some Easter ham and egg hunts! Who could ask for more?

Wendy helping Reagan & Alex search for eggs Reagan on the prowl!

Alex says, "Where are the goodies?"
Alex, David, & Reagan after their Egg Hunt (Reese had fallen asleep before the hunt, so she got to have her own personal egg hunt later) Reagan was helping Rebecca get Alex & David to smile for some pictures
Posing on the Picture Rock Reese's personal egg hunt later on
Reese & Wendy talking about her eggMore pics of Reesie to come soon!

Daffodil Festival

2010-03-28T14:03:00.004-05:00

Since we moved to Little Rock, I have been wanting to make it out to Wye Mountain during the Daffodil Festival. And, this year, we finally made it. It was beautiful!! Brace yourself - there are lots of pictures!

Bubbles & Egg Hunts

2010-03-23T15:40:00.005-05:00

At the Goldings the other night, Wendy whipped out the bubbles and the kids had a ball!! They were running back and forth across the yard chasing the bubbles and laughing. It was precious!She looks a bit like she could be in the Twilight movies in this picture. So pale with those red lips!
Jason & the girls - He's saying, "Take it fast! While theyr'e all here!"

Alex, Reese, Jason, Gracie, & Reagan

We had an early Easter egg hunt in our yard this afternoon. It was Reese's first one, and she was pretty good at it! Reagan was a very sweet helper too! I do love my girls!!

Silly Girls!

2010-03-15T10:15:00.007-05:00

Practicing her pouring skills Reese, are you trying to tell me something?
My little cake decorator My little climber - She was using this as a step stool to get something off the entry table. I've found her standing on the kitchen table a few times already too!

This is how all the cool people wear them! Mommy's shoes are endless fun!Reagan sulking We have started reading some chapter books with Reagan, and she is LOVING them. She is looking at a Disney Fairies book.Reese playing with Minnie Yes, I know this is Reagan's snack, but we'll just keep this between us, Mommy!
Silly Girls!

Princess Reese?

2010-02-23T14:06:00.003-06:00

Reese has discovered the dress-up trunk!!

Fun Videos of the Girls

2010-02-20T11:30:00.000-06:00

Our snow days

2010-02-09T14:36:00.005-06:00

We've had some cold snow days here lately. And, while others may venture forth and build snowmen and such, the Ramsey girls prefer to watch it all from the warmth of the house. We've had lots of fun playing hide-n-seek, singing Wicked songs, dancing, finger painting, sorting shapes, doing puzzles, helping with laundry, playing with clay, reading lots of books, etc.

The girls playing with some yummy-smelling clay from Gammy.

Reagan likes to roll it all into lots of little balls. She says they're grapes. Reese likes to get in on the action too. She mainly pokes at it, but she enjoys it!
It looks like Reese has chosen a "This".
Meet "Dotty"! She loves this little blanket and carries it all over. Reagan posing after finger painting.
Aunt Holly - notice she's wearing the apron you made her!
Helping Mommy with the laundry Yes, she is scrubbing her toes . . . with her toothbrush

Watching the Super Bowl with Daddy - Reese was like a puppy. She begged food off of everyone. Here she is eating a pretzel from Jennifer.
The kiddos "watching" the Super Bowl. Reagan, Reese, Gracie, Alex, & David - Baby Andrew was just to the right of David, but I couldn't get them all in the picture.

January 2010

2010-01-30T13:11:00.006-06:00

Reese makes this face all the time. I was glad to finally capture it on camera. Our little monkey climbs on everything!!Reagan - always posing!
Minnie Mouse getting some love!

Two cheesy grins and a snack

Helping Mommy clean

"How!"

"It's coooooooold!"

"Taxi! Get me outta here!"More posing. This is total Reagan!

"Oooh, shoes!"

Uh-oh. Another princess . . .

Stranded: A Blessing?

2010-01-15T09:16:00.004-06:00

Jason's pick-up has been in the body shop since December 21st. Yes, we have been a one vehicle family for almost a month. But, friends have really helped us out tremendously! A few of Jason's co-workers have picked him up or dropped him off on days that I've needed the car. Our sweet next door neighbor, Poppy, even dropped him off at 5:45am one morning. And, wonderful Wendy has been such a blessing too. She watched the girls one afternoon while I used her car to take the puppies to the vet, then she let me use her car again the next day to make it to my Bible Study. Thank you, friends!

On most days, Jason has taken the car to work and the girls and I have hung out at home. But, it has really been nice. After the craziness of November and December, I've enjoyed the slower pace of January. We've played lots of Candyland, Chutes & Ladders, Memory, Hide-n-Seek, Tag, etc. We've done lots of drawing, coloring, singing and dancing too. I've been able to relax and simply enjoy the girls. They are so much fun!

Without a car during the day, I've had to wait till Jason gets home to go to the grocery store or run other little errands. I've been leaving one girl with him while I take the other with me. It has given me some great one-on-one time with Reagan and Reese. I realized that I hardly ever get that. I think they have both enjoyed having Mommy or Daddy all to themselves too.

All in all, when we had lemons, we made lemonade. Although we are ready to get the pick-up back, God used this time to remind us of the many blessings he has already given us - great friends, precious daughters, and time to rest. Thank you, Lord.

Shang Surprise

2010-01-14T11:21:00.006-06:00

Last week Reagan received the following letter from Santa:

Dear Reagan,

I am so sorry, but when I was cleaning out my sleigh after Christmas, I found a gift for you. It had fallen under the seat. It is on its way now to your house. Now, you be a good girl. Mind your Mom and Dad and be nice to Reese. I will be checking on you.

Love,

Santa Claus

For several days, we all pondered what it was that Santa had for her - dress up clothes, pots and pans for her kitchen, etc. A few days later, Shang arrived in the mail. Reagan was ecstatic! She was jumping up and down. She loves her new Shang doll. She was even giving him kisses. Needless to say, she is no longer "frustrated" with Santa. Thank you, Nana, uh . . . I mean, Santa.

The Meaning of Christmas

2010-01-02T14:53:00.005-06:00

On New Year's Eve-
Skyping with DeeDee.
DeeDee: What did Santa bring you for Christmas?
Reagan: He brought me a kitchen, but I was kind of frustrated because I wanted a Shang doll.

Last Week-
Reagan: (cradling her blanket,"This", in her arms) Look, Mommy, I have a baby!
Me: You do? What's your baby's name?
Reagan: Jesus. And, I'm Mary and you're Joseph. I'm laying him down in the manger so he can sleep.
Me: Are people going to come see him?
Reagan: (nodding) The shepherds and the angels are coming.
Me: Is anyone bringing him gifts?
Reagan: The wisemen are.
After this exchange, I got to thinking. . . She knows all the details, but does she really understand the meaning of Christmas?

Later, we were watching How the Grinch Stole Christmas. The Grinch claimed Christmas was all about presents. So, I asked Reagan her thoughts.
Me: Is Christmas all about presents?
Reagan: No, it's all about God's son!
Wow! I really do think she's starting to understand a lot of it. I pray that we show her everyday, not just at Christmastime, that it is always "all about God's son".

Here She Comes!

2009-12-30T15:48:00.002-06:00

Our Merry Christmas

2009-12-30T11:19:00.009-06:00

Our trip to Texas for Christmas started out with a 12hr road trip with 3 kids (3 and under) squeezed into the backseat of my Camry. The girls actually did a great job, and I was so proud of them. Holly & I drove with the girls, while Clee and Jason came behind us several hours later. We had a great Christmas in Texas with family. We did some driving back and forth between Lubbock and Littlefield, but we were able to spend a lot of time with both sides of our family. Reagan and Reese had a ball playing with their cousins - Payton, Evan, & Bryson. And, we really enjoyed just visiting with everyone. We even got to visit with DeeDee on Skype several times. She watched the girls open their presents from her. We all just passed the laptop around and took turns talking to her like she was right there with us. I love technology!!

Christmas in Littlefield with Nana, Pops, Holly, Clee, & Payton

Pops played while Reagan and Payton sang and dancedReese loved the little chairs as well. Reading with PopsReading with Nana

Admiring herself in the mirror

Presents!Playing with Pops Reese showing Aunt Holly how well she can stand by herself! Reading with Daddy The girls - Reagan, Payton, & Reese

Christmas in Lubbock with Gammy, Unky B, Alli, Evan, Bryson, & Kathy

Reagan had to wait patiently while Daddy put a present together

Scooters from Gammy for Reagan & Evan Reesie & Bryson - check out that expression!Reese eating Reagan's cookie - Reagan set it down and it was gone within secondsExcited about more cookies!Reagan examining Reese's new carriageOur aggressive one - Reese thought Bryson needed lots of sugarsChillin' in the block basket We also had a white Christmas! There was a ton of snow!! It made the drive from Lubbock to Littlefield Christmas morning a bit more treacherous, but we made it. (After assisting some people in an SUV that weren't quite so lucky - their car slid into a ditch and rolled onto it's side.) Jason & Clee wanted to build a snowman, and they attempted to get the girls to participate. Reagan was not at all interested in the cold and spent about 2 minutes outside while Payton just ate snow the whole time.

Payton, Reagan, & Clee Reese wanted so badly to be out there with the bigger kids. Showing off their masterpiece!

The Adventures of Reesie Piecey

2009-12-16T20:23:00.003-06:00

Reese is not quite walking by herself yet, but she is soooooo close. She cruises all over the place, and she is pretty quick at it. She also loves pushing chairs and stools around the house. Her favorite thing in the world right now is cabinets. She loves them! At the cabin in Tanyard Springs this weekend, the cabinets were empty. She thought they were the greatest thing ever. She would climb in them and down around the corner. Endless fun!

After all the fun in the cabinets this weekend, Reese realized she could probably do that at home too. So, today, she emptied one of my cabinets and climbed on in.
Please don't look too closely at my messy cluttered cabinets.

And, shelves also work. Here she is on the shelf under her changing table.What a mess!

Reagan's 1st Dance Recital

2009-12-06T14:27:00.003-06:00

Enjoy!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-30T21:27:00.008-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving! I am so thankful for the wonderful family with which the Lord has blessed me.

We were in Texas to celebrate the holiday and got to see lots of family. It was a great trip! We stayed in Allen (on the way to Lubbock and back again) with Jason's Aunt Freda, Uncle Brad, & cousins Thea & Leah. Their girls are great with our girls! Then we stayed with Gammy and spent lots of time with Unky B, Alli, Evan, & Bryson. We were able to see a big group of my side of the family as well. At GramMary's house on Thanksgiving, we saw Nana, Pops, & DeeDee, and my mom's 3 brothers and their wives. After hitting the Black Friday sales with my mom & Danielle, more of Jason's family came over. We got to meet our two new great-nieces. Yes, you read that right 0ur "great-nieces"! Brogan (daughter of Jason's niece Kaci) is 5mos, and Blakely (daughter of Jason's nephew Russell) is 3.5mos. Back in Allen, we had another party at Brad & Freda's with more of Jason's family. His cousin had a 4yr old daughter whose company Reagan really enjoyed. They loved Leah's dance costumes & wigs!! It was a great trip, but we are sure glad to be home!

Sorry for the abundance of pictures, but there were just so many good ones!

Good Morning! Happy Thanksgiving!

Grinning at Gammy
Me & my sweetness!

Pops & Reese

DeeDee & Reese

DeeDee & Reagan

Don't you think everyone should have a DeeDee!

Daddy & Reese ringing the dinner bell

GramMary with her children - Mom/Nana/Joanna, Grandmommy, Andy, Mark, & Richard

Plus spouses (Dad/Pops/Danny, Gayle, Sudie, & Jill)

The Rogers Clan (in attendance this year)

Four Generations!

Evan the photographer & Reagan the model

Jason, Brogan, & Reese

Jason's sister Kathy with her granddaughter Blakely & niece Reagan The little ones - Reagan, Bryson, Blakely, Brogan, Reese, & Evan

Gammy & our crew

Our attempts at a Family Picture

Leah was great with the little ones! Here are Reagan & Mia modeling her wigs and dance costumes.Wig #1 Wig #2

Wig #3

Reesie loved playing with Uncle Brad!

I love my girls!

2009-11-25T14:08:00.000-06:00

So . . . these pictures are a little old. But they were cute so I still thought I needed to share them. They were taken around the time we had all the computer issues last fall, so I never got around to posting them. These are from November. I'll do another post later with cute October pics . . . those are still on the laptop.

Awww, someday. . . .

What? I thought this was good for split ends.

How Reagan helps decorate cupcakes

A Daddy-Daughter date night to a basketball game

Just bein' sweet!

Yeah, I got 'er. Goin' for a ride

Daddy 'n his girls Fun times with DeeDee - We all miss you, DeeDee! But, we love talking to you on Skype!

Happy 1st Birthday, Reese!

2009-11-22T16:39:00.004-06:00

Yesterday our little Reesie celebrated her first birthday. Our pumpkin turned one, so we had a pumpkin party. She was so precious. I think she really knew that everyone was there to celebrate her. Thank you, friends, for celebrating with us. Thank you, Lord, for the blessing that she is to us.

The Birthday Girl - Reese Abigail Feeding Wendy
Pumpkin CupcakesPumpkin cookies & pumpkin candies
Yummy cupcakes!
Opening Presents

Jack-o-lantern

2009-11-10T14:22:00.005-06:00

We finally got around to carving our pumpkin on Sunday night. I know. It's November already. No one ever accused the Ramseys of being early.

Reese wanted in on the action right away.

Reagan, on the other hand, did not want to touch it. Eeeeeww! She preferred to watch.

Better late than never.

I roasted the pumpkin seeds yesterday, and we've been munching on them. Yummy!

No longer our little baby

2009-11-10T13:56:00.006-06:00

I can hardly believe Reese will have a birthday in less than 2 weeks. She's growing up so fast! She wants so badly to be a big girl like her sister.

Playing dress up with Reagan

Sitting in a big girl chair at Reagan's table. She wanted so badly to sit up there. She loved it! She sat there and played for half an hour!

Coloring with the big girls on the floor. She wanted to be right there with Reagan and Norah.

Happy Halloween!!

2009-11-01T21:33:00.006-06:00

From a lil' Duckie and Mulan!

We went to Trunk-or-Treat with the Lees. Here are all of our munchkins- Reese the duckie, David the pumpkin, Alex as Cinderella, & Reagn as Mulan.

And, we mustn't forget Reagan the Cowgirl.

I had Jason's hats down as I was organizing this evening. When I turned around, I found Calamity Jane! She's even in my Grandaddy Pete's boots.

October 2009

2009-10-30T13:33:00.000-05:00

So, these pictures are really late. But, I could not figure out how to get them from the laptop onto this computer. Jason finally did it for me, so now I can post these fun pictures. Jason had a conference in Dallas in October and we got to visit with his aunt, uncle, and cousins. The girls just LOVE them. And, I'm sure you can see why from the pictures below. They are such a sweet family!!

Helping Mommy pack the suitcaseI'm ready to go!! (Reese @10.5mos)

Reagan opening one of her favorite birthday presents ever - the zebra skirt! For anyone who has seen Reagan in the last 5 months, you know that she LOVES this skirt. She wears it just about everyday. Uncle Brad & Reese Sweet Kitty Leah & Reagan making music

Playing with Uncle Brad If Uncle Brad looks a little familiar, you may have seen him on Friday Night Lights. He plays Buddy Garrity.

Thea & Reese Brad, Reese, me, Jason, & Freda - sorry for the terrible focus, but this was the only group shot I had

Reese in Action

2009-10-28T11:34:00.003-05:00

Dancing

New Tooth

She's growing up so fast! She's cruising all over the place, saying a few words, signing a few words, and understanding so much. Today, she and Daddy were playing ball in the hall and the ball rolled into the living room. She went around the corner and came back without the ball. Daddy said, "Where's the ball?" She turned around and came back with it. She also gives sweet kisses if you ask for them.

***I just showed Jason this post and he watched the videos. Reese was sitting here and heard it. Then, she crawled over to the book and started playing the songs and dancing again. She's too cute!

Fun Fall Weekend

2009-10-26T15:06:00.006-05:00

We had a great fun-filled weekend. Boo at the Zoo, a Pumpkin Patch, the Ortho Picnic, and CityFest. Whew!

Friday night, we went to Boo at the Zoo. The kids get to dress up and go trick-or-treating at the Zoo. But, it was ridiculously cold, so I didn't put the girls in their costumes. They just wore lots of layers (which Reagan does everyday anyway). Reese wore her footy pjs and a big fur coat. As most of you know Reagan has to wear a dress everyday. And, she got a new skirt from Aunt Freda (tutu like with layers of zebra print) that she also wants to wear everyday. So, she wears the skirt under whatever dress she is wearing. Jason gave me a hard time about the girls' lack of costumes, but I told him we had a sleepy Eskimo and a bag-lady.

The Sleepy Eskimo

The Bag-lady

Saturday morning we went to BoBrook Farms Pumpkin Patch. We had a great time. They had a hay maze, a hay ride, face painting, and lots of pumpkins.

My little scarecrows!

Hayride

Check out her handles as she rides on Daddy's shoulders. She gets a death-grip on his ears!

Pumpkin Princesses

Getting their faces painted

The Ortho Dept. had their annual picnic this weekend at Maumelle Park. Reagan got to play with one of the other Ortho wives, Amy. She had Amy at the swings, the slide, down by the river, you name it. And, afterward she kept asking if Amy could come over to play.

Reagan with Amy

On Sunday afternoon, we made our way to the North Little Rock Riverwalk for CityFest. They had several Christian artists performing. But, they also had a neat kids area with several bounce houses and slides and even a little show with Bob & Larry.

Daddy, Reagan, & Bob the Tomato

I'm back!

2009-10-26T15:00:00.003-05:00

Our desktop - may it rest in peace - is no longer with us. It went kaput. We are now waiting on our new Dell with Windows 7. Yea!!

Sorry again for the long absence. Jason has been busy studying on the laptop, so I don't get much access to it to update the blog. But, I'm back! Hopefully no more long breaks. And, I apologize in advance - I've got lots of pictures to come!!

Our Little Ballerina

2009-10-12T16:55:00.005-05:00

Last week was parent observation day in Reagan's dance class. She wanted me to sit right beside her and hold her hand. But, she did eventually let go and dance. Check out the cute pictures of Reagan and Alex (in pigtails in front of her).