Salyers Gang

Owen's Farm - Happy Halloween!

2010-10-31T14:42:00.015-05:00

We finally made it out to Owen's Farm today for our annual trip. We usually go much earlier in October, but this year we've been so busy on the weekends since Rylan started playing soccer. This is Rylan's 4th year and Hudson's 2nd year to come to Owen's Farm. I love this little family tradition we have, and I hope we're still visiting Owen's Farm every October for many years to come!

Rylan loves feeding the goats at the farm. It was the first thing he wanted to do.

Hudson wasn't too sure about the goats at first, but he warmed up to them.

Just taking a little rest

The hay ride is always a big hit. Hudson was mesmerized by the whole thing.

My three boys!

Sweet little Hudson taking in the experience.

The boys made a slide out of a big pile of hay.

Daddy and Bucket. I L-O-V-E this picture of them!!

Momma and Bucket

Hudson loved sitting on the little pumpkins that were just his size.

My blond baby...oh how I love him!

The two cutest boys at the pumpkin patch...in matching outfits of course!

Daddy riding the train with Hudson. Notice the pacifier went along for the trip! Rylan decided he was a big boy this year and he wanted to ride in a train car by himself.

Checking out the turkeys

Time to go home! See you next year Owen's Farm!!

Our Mud Dog!

2010-09-19T19:12:00.009-05:00

Back in June I decided to sign Rylan up to play soccer this Fall. In August we got notice that he had been put on a team, but unfortunately the team didn't have a coach. So, with a little bit of pushing I was able to convince Cody that he should coach soccer to a bunch of 3 year olds! Ha! Of course Cody would do anything for Rylan so he became the head coach of the U4 Mud Dogs soccer team. They have had 2 games so far, and I have laughed so hard I've cried watching these little boys "play" soccer. Of course at this age there is no skill involved. It's just a bunch of kids running around trying to get to the ball. They have no concept of staying in bounds, and 9 times out of 10 they are going the wrong direction...but they are having fun!

Action shot...good kick buddy!

I love that he smiles as he runs after the ball!

Rylan and his best friend Mason taking a break...2 little butts on 1 little cooler!

Listening to "Coach Daddy"

Rylan and Mason playing before a game.

Soccer coach of the year!

Such red little cheeks. It was very hot outside!

Go Rylan!

Again...smiling as he goes after the ball.

Hudson Is ONE!!

2010-09-19T18:35:00.008-05:00

Hudson actually turned 1 on the September 2nd, but we had his party on the 4th. For his birthday party I decided to do a "fire truck" theme. I even found a company to bring out a fire truck shaped bounce house! It was such a fun afternoon with friends and family! I know Hudson won't remember any of it, but it sure was fun!

I CANNOT believe it has already been an entire year since I had Hudson. He has truly completed our family. Hudson is my laid back, go-with-the-flow baby. I love that he still loves for me to carry him everywhere. He may be one, but I'm not quite ready to let go of my little baby! He smiles from the minute he wakes up to the minute he goes to bed. My blond haired baby completely melts my heart each and every day. Just when I think there is no possible way I could love him any more...I do!

Jumping in the bounce house with Uncle Randy.

His precious cake! A little bakery here in Wylie created this, and I couldn't have imagined a more perfect cake for his fire truck birthday!

The cake table all set up.

Hudson's smash cake.

Again, I have been that mom that hasn't allowed my kid to have any kind of sugar until his first birthday. This was literally his first taste of any kind of dessert! Can you tell he enjoyed it?!

He couldn't shove it in his mouth fast enough!

Big brother Rylan helping him blow out his candle.

Jetton and Rylan helping him open his gifts. Look at Rylan's face...I don't think he realized this party wasn't for him!

What A Summer!

2010-08-12T14:23:00.005-05:00

Well, I have to admit that I have COMPLETELY let the blog go this summer! After my last post I fully intended to start posting every few days again. However, in mid-July I had surgery on my right foot and I had no idea the recovery would be as miserable as it has been. I can only be up on my foot for 10 minutes out of every hour. I have pins sticking out the ends of 3 of my toes, and if those toes begin to swell the pins could bend. Therefore, I have been doing a LOT of sitting around on a couch and it is driving me nuts!! Cody has stepped in and he most definitely gets the "Dad of the Year" award. For 4 weeks he has changed almost every diaper, fixed meals (or gone to get meals), picked up the house and done almost everything for the kids. I owe him big time!

Cody and I both go back to work on Monday, which is bittersweet. I LOVE being at home with my boys, but I really enjoy my job and the people I work with too. The first week of dropping the boys off will be a little rough for me though. Rylan will be promoted to Pre-K, which means more structure and more learning. The best thing is his entire class has been together since they were about 15 months old and they will all promote together again. Hudson will move up to the Toddler A class, which makes me a little sad and feeling like I officially don't have a "baby" anymore.

I have so much to update on the blog about Hudson. He is so easy-going and happy. Around 9 months old we took him completely off of baby food because all he wanted was our food. He now eats ANYTHING we put in front of him. In addition, he out eats Rylan at almost every meal. He eats so much that we have to order him a kid's meal when we go out to eat! You would think that he would be huge, but he really isn't. He's just now getting into some 12 month clothes, but he can still wear several 9 month onesies. And...maybe our biggest news about Hudson is that he is walking!! He started taking 2-3 steps about three weeks ago, but now he is officially walking across the living room. He says mama, dada, baba (bubba) and hi. He waves and blows kisses also. Today we just introduced whole milk to him. I am ready to stop buying formula, but at the same time I know he is my last baby so I am sentimental about taking the bottle away. His first birthday is just weeks away, and I know it will be a special day for all of us!

We are having a blast with Rylan at this age. He is hysterical! The things that he says keep us laughing constantly. We have signed him up to play in a soccer league starting in September. We bought him soccer shoes, shin guards, socks and shorts...so he is ready to go! We can't wait to see what a bunch of 3 year olds look like trying to play soccer. It should be entertaining for us!

Rylan loves to listen to Hudon's heart. When you ask Rylan what he hears he'll say, "I hear Jesus." I love this kid!

My sweet little man!

Hanging out before church one Sunday.

The boys have played together on this little playhouse all summer. They love it!

Our little boy has become very interested in being a "superhero" lately. He's always trying to get a blanket or towel for a cape.

One BIG Catch Up

2010-07-05T18:56:00.016-05:00

I have to be honest and say that I have been a little overwhelmed thinking about all the separate posts I needed to do in order to catch up on my blogging. So, I just decided to do one big random catch up post. I still need to do Hudson's 9 and 10 month posts, but I will do those in the next day or two.

Hudson has officially given up baby food and he is now on all table food. I should also mention that this baby eats ANYTHING...asparagus, corn, carrots, mango, nectarines, grapes, chicken and meatballs are just a few of the things he inhales! I also have to mention that he out eats his 3 year old brother at most meals. This baby literally lives for meal time!

We have a Bahama Buck's place near us so we had to visit one VERY hot afternoon to get some yummy snow cones to help cool down. Rylan of course wanted to sit by his daddy at the picnic table. Isn't he absolutely Cody's mini-me?!

Bahama Buck's has a ring game that Rylan enjoyed playing. The point is to swing the ring onto a hook on the wall. We all gave it a shot, but it was much harder than it looked.

Trying so hard to swing the ring onto the hook.

I LOVE this picture. It might just be one of my favorites of Rylan. What a goofball!

His Texas Rangers hat with his PJ's.

I had woke up early one morning when Rylan came into our room crying. I put him in bed with Cody and then went into the kitchen to do some chores. This is what I came back to see...so sweet!

Hudson loves being pulled around in this little wagon.

This picture just makes me smile. I love that they are really playing together now. Rylan really is so sweet to him 99% of the time. And, Hudson absolutely worships his big brother!

This was our first morning at FCA camp. We were staying in the Callaway Villas on the campus of Texas A&M. I had just given the boys a bath and while I was dressing Hudson this was the "outfit" that Rylan put on himself. Who needs clothes as long as you have your Lightening McQueen undies and your Texas Rangers baseball hat?

Hanging out at Kyle Field during the opening chapel for FCA camp. My happy baby is so content just being anywhere at any time...I love it!

Cody, Rylan, Keri and Doak all participating in some praise and worship songs at FCA camp. I love that these little boys have dads that will do these things with them.

Some more praise and worship.

The kitchen cabinets at the Callaway Villas were a favorite of Hudson's. My little monkey climbed in and out of them countless times.

I'm Baaaack!!

2010-06-23T13:22:00.005-05:00

We finally got our computer fixed so I can now resume my blogging addiction! It was not easy going a month and a half without posting any pictures and updates. So, I have a lot of catching up to do...

When school finished up the first week of June I was so ready to just be home with my boys. Rylan and Hudson have both had such a good time just sleeping in, going to different playgrounds, having play dates with friends, splashing around on the waterslide and just relaxing around the house. Our summer is packed full of things to do and places to be so our lazy days at home are very nice!

The boys have really started playing together since we all have been home. They love Hudson's "farm" that he got for Christmas. The two of them can have the best time together and when they both get to laughing it is hysterical!

I will get Hudson's 9 month picture downloaded so I can post about that...even though he is nearly 10 months old. I seriously cannot believe that in just a few short months I will be having his first birthday party!! Although, I will say that I am VERY thankful that I am not pregnant this summer!!!

8 Months Old

2010-05-07T19:37:00.002-05:00

So, yes our blog has been seriously neglected lately! I am going to try my best to get better about posting more again. I'm hoping with the end of baseball season and the end of the school year, I will be able to find more time to post. Anyway, here is the picture and post for Hudson's 8th month.

Hudson At 8 Months

1. CRAWLING!!! Yep, that's right he is officially crawling and making his way around the house as he pleases. He first started out with an "army crawl" but has recently started getting up on his knees to crawl. I have to admit that this milestone saddens me a bit. I kind of liked the fact that he needed me to take him everywhere.

2. We have finally used up all the golden juice (a.k.a. frozen breastmilk) and he is now on formula. I pumped like a mad woman the first 5 months so that he would have enough to last a while. I had hoped to pump enough to last until about 9 months when the school year would be over. However, I know I gave him a good start with 8 months of breastmilk so I do feel good about that.

3. Hudson is still very much attached to his pacifiers. I had gotten Rylan off the pacifier by 8 months, but I just don't have the heart to take it away from Hudson yet...probably because he is my last baby and I don't want to rush things. However, I promise I won't have a 4 year old walking around Wal-Mart with a pacifier in his mouth. Maybe this summer we'll work on it.

4. He has started babbling a lot this month. He says dada a lot when Cody is around, but we're not sure yet if he really knows what it means.

5. He is just shy of 17 pounds. He is still on the little side, but that's okay. He's kind of our tough little bulldog baby. I think Rylan better watch out when Hudson gets big enough to wrestle!

6. Hudson loves to play with Rylan. While Cody and I get ready in the mornings for work, Rylan and Hudson get in the crib with toys and play for a good 20-30 minutes. I love that they have this time together. I know they wont always play in a crib together, but I hope they always have some kind of special time together as brothers.

7. Hudson has also started eating puffs this month. We had tried them before, but he just seemed to gag on them. Now he loves them. He tries to shovel them in his mouth as fast as he can.

8. He has started pulling up on furniture too. He doesn't take any steps to walk around the furniture, but he sure does think he is big when he pulls up. He usually lets out a big squeal to make sure everyone sees him standing up.

9. If it's possible, his blonde hair is getting even lighter. I think most people look at Cody and I and wonder how we got a baby with such blonde hair...and blue eyes. I promise he's ours! :-)

10. Hudson and Rylan have started taking their baths together. They both get so excited when they are in the tub together. They love to splash and usually the bathroom is a wreck when they get out, but I know they've had a blast and water can always be wiped up.

Each month brings out more and more of Hudson's sweet little personality. One of my favorite things is going in to check on him at night after he falls asleep. He's usually on his tummy with his little butt up in the air. Every night when I see this I think the same thing...God, please don't let him grow up. However, I know he will but I try so hard to take in every moment of him just being my baby.

More Pictures From The Photo Shoot

2010-04-25T19:25:00.013-05:00

I have had these for about a month now, but I'm just now getting around to putting them on the blog. Here are a few more pictures from the photo shoot we had with Chera in March. It basically was the "Rylan Show" that day. He loved having his picture taken. Hudson wasn't too thrilled about being set down in the grass. He just wanted to hang out on momma's hip that afternoon. Anyway, I was very pleased with the way the pictures turned out!

Our Big 3 Year Old!

2010-04-18T19:17:00.007-05:00

I can't believe we have a 3 year old! Seriously, where did the past three years go?! On Monday morning (his actual birthday) we woke him up by going in his room with a plate of pancakes with three candles stuck in them. He had a rough time waking up, but once he realized it was his birthday, he was pretty excited about everything. Once he blew out his candles we took him into the living room. Then, Cody rolled in his new Lightening McQueen bike. He had been asking for a bike leading up to his birthday so of course we were going to make sure he had a bike! He immediately wanted to put on his knee pads and helmet and ride his bike. He made several laps around the island in the kitchen before we convinced him that he had to get dressed for school. He took cupcakes to school for his class party that day. Then, as soon as I got done with work at 3:30 I raced to his school to pick him up and bring him home so he could ride his new bike outside. He had a blast, and he thinks he's pretty big on that bike. I have to admit though that my heart stopped the first time I watched him crash. It was a pretty bad fall. However, he barely even cried and actually wanted to get right back on his bike! That night Cody came home early and we all went out to eat. It was a very low-key birthday, but it was also kind of nice to just have some good, quality family time.

You can't have a Lightening McQueen bike and not have the matching protective gear!

Doesn't this bike just scream little boy?!

I LOVE his "wake up" face!

He's not too tired to blow out his candles though!

Trying out the new wheels!

Rylan,

You have no idea how much daddy and I have enjoyed the past three years with you! This last year we have watched you really grow into a little boy, and you are definitely ALL BOY!! You love to wrestle with daddy, climb on everything and you constantly have a bruise on your head from being so crazy. You are a ball of energy that goes nonstop from the time you wake up until the minute you go to bed. I don't think I have ever gone a day without laughing hysterically at the things you say and do. You can be such a toot one minute, but then so sweet the next. I love that you are so tender hearted when it comes to your little brother. You are always so concerned about him, and you don't like it at all when he cries! I love your sweet prayers at bedtime and the questions you ask about Jesus. More than anything though, I love you because I am your momma and I will always love you...no matter what. There is nothing you can ever do to make me stop loving you. I can't wait for many more years of watching you grow up, but no matter how old you get you will always be my little Butter Bean.

Love you!

Momma

Easter

2010-04-11T20:19:00.007-05:00

We went into Abilene for Easter this year, but it was a FAST trip. Because our schools had a snow day earlier in the year, we had to go to school on Good Friday as our make-up day. So, we did not get into Abilene until Friday evening, and then we had to leave right after lunch on Sunday. We were exhausted when we got home, but it was fun to spend Easter with family.

Hudson checking out the Easter basket Nanny (his great grandmother) got him.

Nonni (Cody's mom) got the stuff for the kids to have an Easter egg hunt in her front yard Saturday night. They loved it!

Uncle Randy trying to show Rylan where some more eggs are.

When Rylan woke up Sunday morning and came downstairs he realized the Easter Bunny (a.k.a. RoRo) had left more eggs all over the house.

Then, Rylan was so excited to see his Elmo basket just like he had wanted.

My two little men dressed up for church. You can only imagine how much the older ladies at church loved these two boys when they walked in.

Rylan giving me the "thumbs up" when he was ready to go to church.

7 Months Old

2010-04-11T19:57:00.002-05:00

So, just like his 6th month post, this one is also a little late. With baseball season and Easter going on around the same time, we were lucky to even get a 7 month picture. These past 7 months have gone by way too fast, but they sure have been fun!

What Mr. Hudson's Been Up To:

Hudson got his first tooth (bottom left) on the 1st. His gum line had been bulging for a good week before that, but the tooth finally made an appearance just a day before he turned 7 months.
Hudson is sleeping in his bed!!! For those of you who follow the blog or know us pretty well, then you know that Hudson has slept in a swing since birth due to his reflux. Well, about 2-3 weeks ago we finally got him transitioned into his crib.
To follow up with that, Hudson is no longer taking Prevacid for reflux. He still has some issues, but not nearly as bad as he did.
Hudson can't quite crawl, but he has started trying to get up on his knees. Why would the kid need to crawl...I carry him every where! :-)
He is still such a snuggle bug. He loves to be on my hip and just lay his head against me. I feel like he is permanently attached to me in the evenings, but I don't mind. I'll take it as long as I can since I know one day it won't be "cool" to cuddle with mom.
Hudson has started interacting with Rylan a lot more this past month. Rylan can still make him laugh more than the rest of us.
He has started eating "puffs" this month. I had tried them a few weeks ago, but he gagged on them and then vomited all over me. :-)
Hudson is really staring to like the Jumperoo. Rylan LOVED the Jumperoo, from day 1, but it has taken Hudson a while to warm up to it...mostly because he'd rather just be held by me. :-)
He is finally in all 6 month clothing. His growth has been just slow and steady, which is very different from what his brother's growth pattern was as an infant.
His smile still melts my heart and makes me eternally thankful to be his momma!

Giggles That Will Melt Your Heart

2010-03-25T20:08:00.005-05:00

I caught this sweet interaction between Rylan and Hudson tonight after dinner. I love these boys! Hudson's little laugh is so contagious too!

(Since I have the playlist on the bottom of my blog that plays continuously, you need to go to the bottom and push pause and then come back and start the giggle video.)

Sweet Boys

2010-03-20T13:52:00.005-05:00

Pictures of my little loves!

This has become one of their favorite things to do. When I need to get things done around the house, Rylan climbs up in the crib and I dump a bunch of toys in there. I love that they truly love to play together. Rylan is such a great big brother!

Are We Done?

2010-03-18T09:42:00.002-05:00

Are you done having kids? Are you going to try for a girl? For some reason these are the questions everyone asks me lately. My answer is simply...yes, we are done. I am complete and our family is complete. Five years ago when I started treatment for infertility I just prayed to God that I would have the chance to be the mommy to one child. Now, as I type this I am sitting here in the living room watching my TWO boys laugh at each other. I. AM. COMPLETE. I just want to spend my time loving them and their daddy and being thankful for this amazing life I have.

Family Pictures

2010-03-15T09:08:00.004-05:00

Yesterday, we met Chera at the A.W. Perry Homestead Museum in Carrollton to have some family pictures taken. The last time we had them taken was in Novemeber. I wanted some really fun "Spring" pictures taken this time. Chera did not disappoint! She sent these 3 pictures to me as a sneak peak and I will get the rest from the photo shoot in about a week. I can't wait!

6 Months Old

2010-03-11T19:44:00.014-06:00

6 Month Stats

Weight: 15 pounds, 7 ounces (10%)

Length: 25.5" (10%-25%)

So this post is very late, but baseball season has started and I don't know if I am coming or going lately. Hudson turned 6 months old on the 2nd and I CANNOT believe that in just another 6 months my baby will be a year old!! Hudson continues to remain the sweetest baby ever!

What Hudson's Been Up To:

* Probably his biggest milestone since 5 months is that he now sits unsupported. He started doing this at the end of February.

* He loves to stand in his walker even though he doesn't walk in it.

* He has started on baby food meat, but isn't a huge fan unless it's mixed in a veggie...I don't blame him since I can barely stand the smell of the baby meats!

* He tried his first sippy cup with pear juice this last weekend. I could tell that he loved the juice, but he had a little trouble trying to figure out how to suck on the spout of the sippy cup.

* As you can see from the pictures above, Hudson constantly smiles still.

* Hudson has started laughing a lot this month. Rylan can get him to laugh the most.

* Hudson loves to pull our fingers in his mouth and chew, but so far he is still toothless.

* He is still on the small side, which is so strange for me since Rylan was a beast as a baby. Hudson can still wear some 3 month clothing and is mostly in 3-6 month clothing. 6 month clothing is pretty big on him.

* He doesn't show any signs of wanting to crawl yet.

* Hudson L-O-V-E-S to snuggle! I say he's my little koala bear because he just wants to sit on my hip and rest his head on my shoulder all the time.

* He still sleeps in the swing due to his reflux.

* Hudson is still on Prevacid, but I can tell that the reflux is getting better.

* We continue to love him more each any every day!

Busy Weekend!

2010-02-28T20:30:00.005-06:00

Oh my goodness! This weekend was PACKED full of things to do. My mom and grandmother (Meme) came into town and stayed the night at our house on Thursday. Then, Friday my sister-in-law and niece flew in from Albuquerque to have a birthday shopping spree at the American Girl Doll store. Cody and I met them for dinner Friday night and then headed to their hotel so Rylan and Aleigha could swim. Then, Saturday Cody headed off to his baseball tournament, Rylan stayed at the house with a babysitter and Hudson and I loaded up and went to meet everyone at the American Girl Doll store. After Aleigha shopped and loaded up several bags we headed upstairs to eat at the bistro. Later that night Cody came to meet us after picking up Rylan at the house first. As if we hadn't eaten enough that day, we then decided to go to Marble Slab Creamery for some late night ice cream. We got home pretty late Saturday, but it was so much fun! Then, on Sunday we dropped Hudson off at Keri and Natalie's house and we took Rylan to the 1-2-3 Imagine Sesame Street Live show at Nokia Theatre. Oh my gosh! It was so much fun! Rylan was mesmerized by it all. It was a fun event for us to take Rylan to and spend some quality time with just him. So...this weekend was both exhausting and so much fun all at the same time!

Swimming with Aleigha. I L-O-V-E this picture of them!

Loaded up and heading to see Big Bird, Elmo, Cookie Monster and the rest of the gang.

Let the show begin!

Rylan is a big fan of Cookie Monster!

The lady sitting in front of us was so sweet and offered to take a family picture.

Valentine's 2010

2010-02-20T11:36:00.002-06:00

Since school got cancelled on Friday the 12th due to the snow, the boys had their school Valentine parties on Tuesday the 16th. This year Rylan picked out Cars Valentine cards which was really no big surprise since he is obsessed with Lightening McQueen and Mater. He had lots of chocolate in his bag when I picked him up, and he HATES chocolate. He told me he just got "dirty" candy. So, luckily I had some Skittles in the pantry to give him. Then, I ate his chocolate! Ha! Hudson's class didn't really have much of a party obviously since they are all babies, but I did make cookies for his teachers for the day.

I ordered Hudson's outfit from Etsy. I loved it so many people at their school told me how cute he was.

Rylan's "Chicks Dig Me" shirt was also a hit.

Our Winter Wonderland

2010-02-11T20:05:00.010-06:00

We woke up to a winter wonderland today and it just kept getting better as the day went on! I'm not exactly sure how much snow we have, but I would guess we had a good 4-5 inches on our yard when we started playing in it this afternoon. Cody and I both had school today, but as soon as we got out we hurried to get the boys and then bundled everyone up and headed outside. Rylan has never built a snowman so I REALLY wanted to do that with him. Plus, I figured Cody and I could use a good snowball fight! We all had so much fun and Hudson was a great spectator sitting in his stroller watching all the fun.

Outside our house at 4:00pm and we still got quite a bit more snow after this picture.

SO excited to play in the snow!

He was having a blast just running through the snow!

Rylan helping daddy push the big ball for the snowman.

I think he was in awe of all the snow.

Our happy little munchkin watching us play.

Somehow (with Daddy's help) I got pushed down in the snow.

Sweet mooches!

Someone is about to get hit by a snowball.

Still working on the snowman. I didn't get a picture of the finished product but he has broccoli for his eyes and nose and a Milwaukee Brewers baseball hat on. Rylan also named him Theodore...he has recently seen the Chipmunk Movie.

My First Love

2010-02-10T19:24:00.007-06:00

Everyone who has more than one child understands what I mean when I say that I love both my boys EQUALLY, but I also love them in completely DIFFERENT ways. So, although I love Hudson beyond comprehension, this post is all about my first love...Rylan. I remember when I came home from the hospital with Rylan I couldn't get over the fact that I was now someone's mother! I seriously think it took weeks for that to really sink in. Then, as Rylan began to talk NOTHING prepared me for that moment that I heard him actually call me "Momma" for the first time. I really don't know how my heart didn't just completely explode at that exact moment. To this day the sweetest sound is hearing him say that word. Rylan has a place in my heart that belongs only to him.

My sweet boy loving on his Little Bucket.

When it comes to Hudson, Rylan becomes the most unselfish little boy I have ever seen. He adores his brother and easily hands over his most prized possessions (night-night and Booger Bear) in an attempt to comfort Hudson when he is crying.

SO tired and SO precious!

Sweet dreams Rylan

I also wanted to post some things Rylan has been doing/saying lately. This is more for my records than anything since this blog is basically our family scrapbook.

* Rylan can count to 33...not sure why it stops there, but it does.

* He can say his alphabet and even recognize a few letters.

* He is still a picky eater when it comes to meats, but the kid can eat his body weight in yogurt and fruit.

* I am comfortable saying he is completely potty trained! He has been in big boy underwear for a while now, but he was still having 1-2 accidents a day until a few weeks ago. He has even stayed dry though some naps recently. And, I have to admit that there was no part of potty training that I enjoyed...just being honest!

* We have recently started making Rylan thank God for something new each night when he says his prayer. He chooses on his own what he wants to be thankful for. So far he has been thankful for milk and juice, stars, bananas, socks, Lightening McQueen, toothpaste, Bucket (Hudson), grass and school buses. :-)

* He cannot say the "C" or "K" sound at all. It comes out as a "T" sound. So, we think it is funny to try to get him to say a bunch of words in a row that starts with that "C" sound. So, instead of saying "cute kitty cat" he says "tute titty tat" and we laugh hysterically EVERY time.

* Rylan still DESPISES chocolate (I didn't know that was humanly possible) and prefers "white" things instead. He says chocolate is dirty.

* Rylan says this prayer at mealtime: "God is great, God is good. Let us thank hm for our food. By his hand, we are fed. Thank you for our daily bread. Amen

* Unfortunately, he still picks his nose and eats it...we're working on that one!

* He still has no concept of time. So, when he asks for something that I don't want him to have any time soon I enthusiastically say, "Not right now, but maybe next year!" and he is fine with that answer. I wonder how long this will last.

* On that same note, when it is time to go to bed at night we usually tell him we are setting the timer for 5 minutes and then he has to go to bed. This is when he says, "No, not 5 minutes Momma! I get TWO minutes and then I go to bed!" He drives a hard bargain!

I don't think there is any doubt how much we love this little boy! Thank you God for the opportunity and blessing to be Rylan's parents.

5 Months Old

2010-02-07T13:50:00.003-06:00

I am a little late getting this post up, but things have gotten a bit crazy since baseball season has started. Hudson actually turned 5 months old on the 2nd. Seriously?! Has it already been 5 months since he was born?! The time has gone by so fast!

* Hudson continues to be the HAPPIEST baby ever! He smiles nonstop!

* He loves to have people talk to him. He will stay entertained for hours as long as someone is talking to him.

* Hudson is sleeping through the night...most nights.

* He is very entertained by his big brother. Hudson just sits and watches Rylan play in the evenings. With Momma's help Hudson even rides on Rylan's back like a horse. This is also one of Rylan's favorite things!

* He has now had cereal, bananas, peaches, prunes, apple sauce, pears, green beans, carrots, sweet peas and sweet potatoes. I think the only thing left to introduce is squash. He likes all of them, but the baby DEVOURS green beans and pears!

* Hudson continues to take medication for his reflux. Some days it is better than others, and hopefully he will outgrow it completely within a few more months.

* He is still on 5 oz. bottles. If we give him anymore, he spits up way too much.

* Hudson has started chewing on everything so I am thinking we may be seeing some little teeth here soon.

* When Hudson was born I kept calling him "Love Bucket" and then it got shortened to just "Bucket". Well, that nickname has now stuck and even his daycare teachers call him that sometimes. Rylan calls him "Little Brudder" or "Little Bucket".

WE LOVE YOU BUCKET!

"We Build Boy Things Momma!"

2010-01-24T19:44:00.005-06:00

This past Saturday morning Cody and Rylan loaded up and headed to Lowe's to attend their Build and Grow workshop. This is a GREAT things for dads and their little boys. The workshops are free and the little boys leave with their completed project, a work apron/smock and a pair of goggles. During this workshop Rylan and Cody built a tic-tac-toe box together. Although Rylan has no idea how to play tic-tac-toe, he is SO proud of his box! Rylan has been wearing that smock and goggles ever since Saturday. He proudly wore them out to a restaurant Saturday and it was a huge struggle to make him take them off for nap time that day.

My little Bob Vila

On another note, Mr. Hudson is L-O-V-I-N-G baby food! He has now had cereal, peas, carrots, sweet potatoes, bananas, apple sauce and peaches. He's like a little vacuum when he eats and he smiles the entire time he's being fed!

Seriously, have you ever seen anyone enjoy carrots this much?!!!

Matching PJ's

2010-01-16T11:20:00.003-06:00

So, most of you already know that I am OBSESSED with finding matching outfits for the boys. Well, the other night while I was shopping around in Old Navy I saw these precious pajamas and they came in sizes that fit both the boys. I couldn't resist! Now I am on the hunt for matching Easter outfits. Who knew it could be so much fun to dress little boys?! I'm loving it!

* Hudson started coughing and running fever a few days ago. While Cody was in Waco at coaching school, Hudson's temp. got up to 103.4 and I was up ALL NIGHT with him. So, I took him in to his pediatrician yesterday and he tested positive for RSV. Luckily, his lungs are still pretty clear so we have him at home just watching him closely for any respiratory problems. The pediatrician wants to see him back Monday to see if any treatments need to be started at that time.

Of course after I called Cody to tell him what was going on here at home, he wanted to come home. So, he made it back home last night and took over "baby duty" so I could get some sleep. I couldn't ask for a better husband and daddy!

Hudson had another rough night last night. He is still VERY congested and running fever, although it's not as high as it had been. Hopefully within the next few days he will be feeling better and this will all be behind us. Having a sick baby is absolutely the most helpless feeling ever. Anyway, say a little prayer for Hudson that his RSV clears up quickly without getting any worse.

4 Months Old

2010-01-04T18:09:00.008-06:00

4 Month Stats:

Weight: 14.3 pounds (25th-50th percentile)

Length: 24 3/8" (25th-50th percentile)

I took Hudson in today for his 4 month check-up and immunizations. Even being a nurse I still HATE to see my baby get shots. I know they only cry for a minute and then it's over, but it's just one of those times as a mom when you feel so guilty because you know they don't understand why you are doing this to them. Luckily, we LOVE our pediatrician and her nurse is one of my good friends so I always feel like my kids are in very good hands when we have to make a visit to their office.

Hudson has gained about 2.5 pounds since his 2 month visit. He has also grown a little over 2 inches since then. He is still my "little" baby compared to Rylan. I can't find the paper with Rylan's 4 month stats, but I do know that Rylan was 14.9 pounds at just 2 months. I think he was about a good 16.5 pounds by 4 months.

At Four Months Hudson is:

* laughing out loud when he is tickled.

* rolling over from belly to back. We also think he rolled over from back to belly just a few days ago. I had him laying on the floor in the living room on his back and I got up to go in the kitchen. When I looked back he was on his belly.

* pulling his feet up to suck on his toes/socks whenever he can.

* eating solid foods. We started him on cereal last week and he loves it. He has also had sweet peas now. The first time he had sweet peas I don't think he knew what was going on. The second time...I couldn't shove them in his mouth fast enough for him. I think we will move on to bananas next.

* sleeping from about 8:30pm-5:00am each night. Some nights he goes a little longer, but not usually.

* still sleeping in his swing. Due to his reflux he still can't lay flat on his back for long periods of time. I'm hoping once he really gets good at turning over on his belly that he will like to sleep that way and we can finally put him in the crib. Until then, we are keeping Duracell batteries in business with the swing.

* a people watcher. For the most part he is very content to sit in his little chair and just watch Rylan play.

* still loving his pacifier. Rylan liked his pacifier, but gave it up very easily at 6 months. I don't think we will be that lucky with Hudson.

Hudson sleeps like crazy after he gets shots. I gave him Tylenol and he has been asleep since we got home.

On Januray 2, 2009 (one year ago today)...

2010-01-02T08:51:00.011-06:00

...we got the shock of our lives! January 2, 2009 started off as a pretty normal day. Cody decided to go to Greenville to do some work on his baseball field. I decided to just stay home and get some things done around the house. I remember going to Wal-Mart a day or two before and picking up a pregnancy test at the pharmacy. The ONLY reason I did this was because I had this "gut" feeling that maybe I was pregnant. And, to make it clear, we were not trying to get pregnant at all...we had been told by doctors that we would most likely never get pregnant on our own. Our plan was for Rylan to be 3 or 4 years old before we tried in vitro again. So, that's why when I got home I just stashed the test away under the bathroom sink and never even mentioned it to Cody. So, on the 2nd when Cody was gone and Rylan was down for a nap that afternoon, I decided to just go ahead and use the pregnancy test. This is where you all have to realize that before we got Rylan through in vitro, for 2+ years I spent a small fortune on pregnancy tests just to see a negative sign or only one line EVERY SINGLE TIME. Well, I went into the bathroom, did my business...and then stood there in COMPLETE shock when I looked down and saw a definite plus sign!!! That instant flood of emotions was, and still is indescribable. Mostly, I think I was in denial, but I kept looking down at the test, and yep, that plus sign was still there. I didn't want to call Cody right away because I wanted to make sure it was true.

So, what was my next logical step? I called one of my best friends Natalie and freaked out on the phone. She immediately cancelled her hair appointment, went to the store to grab 2 more pregnancy tests and came over. So, back in the bathroom I went with 2 more tests as she waited in the kitchen for me. The tests she picked up were a different brand, and I didn't stop and take the time to really look at them. So, when I did my business on those tests I came out telling her that I wasn't pregnant because the tests only had 2 negative lines...no plus signs. That's when Natalie told me that 2 lines IS a positive on those tests!! So it was official...3 tests told me I was pregnant!!

At this point Natalie helped me come up with a plan to tell Cody later that day when he got home. I went to a local maternity store that sold t-shirts for kids that said "Big Bro" and got one for Rylan. I raced home to get Rylan dressed in the shirt and when Cody got home, the look on his face was priceless. He just kept saying, "Are you sure?" After showing him the 3 tests (which I had saved to prove it to him) I think it finally started to sink in for him.

So there you have it...January 2nd will always be a day that I remember very well. That day was a solid reminder for me that God can make anything happen even when doctors say there isn't a chance. I consider myself so blessed to have my two miracle children...Rylan is mine because of the advances in medicine (and God of course) and Hudson is mine just simply because God reminded me that HE is in charge.

THREE tests finally confirmed the news for me.

one year later (to the exact day) we have a precious, perfect 4 month old!

Christmas

2010-01-01T21:51:00.008-06:00

Christmas day was so much fun this year. I think I enjoyed it so much because Rylan is at an age where he really got excited about everything. This year Santa (with Nonni and Papa's help) picked out the perfect Thomas the Train table for our little boy! Then Santa (with RoRo's help) picked out the track and several trains that would make playing on the table so much fun! Let's just say that we have a believer in our house! Santa can do no wrong!

Hudson of course could have cared less about anything going on Christmas morning. Instead, he spent most of his time in PaPa's lap just watching all the action. Rylan opened Hudson's gifts later in the day for him.

I really couldn't have asked for a better Christmas...snow, 2 healthy, perfect little boys, an amazing husband, good food and lots of family around. We did however miss some of our family that couldn't be with us.

Seeing all the goodies that Santa left under the tree.

Hudson just relaxing with PaPa.

Checking out his Thomas the Train stuff.

I decided that my two oldest boys would have a good time with matching Nerf guns.

Sweet Hudson was exhausted from all the fun.

Rylan and Hudson hanging out together on the couch watching Rylan's new Mickey Mouse movie.

What a cutie!

Rylan loved his new fire truck and hat that we gave him.

Christmas Eve 2009

2009-12-30T21:33:00.009-06:00

We just got home tonight so I am going to do my best to get the blog caught up in the next few days.

Christmas Eve was so much fun this year, mostly due to the fact that Abilene got 3-4 inches of snow on the 24th. It actually felt like Christmas, which doesn't ever happen here in Texas since Christmas time usually comes with temperatures in the 50's-60's...if not warmer than that. I loved it! I think this was Rylan's second time to see snow. Abilene got snow on Thanksgiving day in 2007. This was of course Hudson's first time to see snow. Rylan enjoyed playing in the snow and had a blast throwing snow balls at everyone. Hudson...well, he actually fell asleep in his bear suit while the rest of us had fun in the snow. Apparently, the snow wasn't too impressive to him!

Christmas Eve is a big day for traditions in our family. Since my mom has moved to Texas we have introduced Cody's family to our traditional Christmas Eve Mexican food dinner. As long as I can remember my mom has made tacos for Christmas Eve. We also surrounded my in-laws house with luminarias on Christmas Eve night. Growing up in New Mexico we did this every year at our house. The history of the luminaria has to do with lighting the way for Christ. It is such a fun thing to do and we attracted some onlookers that night since this is not a "normal" thing to do in Texas. I think everyone had a good time doing this. We also started a new tradition for our family. We made a birthday cake for Jesus and had a birthday party...balloons, banner and noise makers included! Rylan and his cousin Anicia decorated the cake with sprinkles, sprinkles and MORE sprinkles!! I hope we continue this new tradition each year to remind us all that Christmas wouldn't be possible without Christ.

I think we were all exhausted when we went to bed on Christmas Eve. Thank goodness our kids aren't quite old enough to want to wake up at 4:00am to open presents...although I know those years are just around the corner!

The little monster coming at me with snow!

Look at those red cheeks!

Happy Birthday Jesus...Rylan told us Jesus was 3 years old this year! Ha!

Oh, how they loved the sprinkles!

Cody's parent's house all lit up with the luminarias and lights.

Family picture time

RoRo with her little bear.

Yep, that's right...he's asleep...in freezing temperatures...while the rest of us play in the snow.

I L.O.V.E. this picture!! Such a cute little bear with fat little cheeks!

Brotherly Love

2009-12-22T20:33:00.005-06:00

You're my best buddy,

My favorite friend,

We'll always be pals,

From now until the end.

I have to admit that when I found out I was pregnant with Hudson I panicked! Two kids just two years apart was never in our plans. After going through 2 rounds of in vitro to get Rylan we figured we would wait until he was 3-4 years old and then maybe try it again with the frozen embryos we have left. However, now that Hudson is here and I have two little boys so close in age, I couldn't be happier. My prayer is that these two boys will grow up loving and protecting each other in a way that only two brothers can understand. I realize that not all moments between the two of them will be as sweet as the ones captured above, but I can't help from smiling when I think that they each already have their forever best friend.

Play Time!

2009-12-22T12:53:00.005-06:00

Hudson is nearly 4 months old and his little personality is REALLY starting to come out. For the most part he is very laid back. He will just sit in his swing or baby seat for 30+ minutes awake while we get things done around the house or play with Rylan. He also smiles from ear to ear if anyone starts talking to him. This baby LOVES to talk!! Hudson and Rylan are also starting to interact a little more. Rylan is so precious with him! He tries so hard to be gentle and just love on him. Rylan gets SO excited when Hudson smiles or talks to him!

These past few months since Hudson has been born have been wonderful! I love having 2 little boys in the house!! This time last year we had no idea what a surprise we were about to get on January 2nd when I took that pregnancy test. I guess I wasn't really car sick last Christmas when we went up in the mountains in New Mexico to go sledding...I was just pregnant! Ha! What a year!

We are so excited for this Christmas! It is Hudson's first Christmas and Rylan is at such a fun age. We have really stressed to Rylan the true meaning of Christmas. He is super excited to make a birthday cake for Jesus...and he constantly tells me that Jesus will be 3 years old!

We are headed to Abilene for the week to spend the holiday with our family there. We will miss not getting to see the rest of our family, but we wish everyone a Merry CHRISTmas!!

My two precious boys!

Hanging out in the Baby Einstein toy...even though his feet don't touch the floor yet! :-)

All this playing can sure wear a little guy out!

So sweet!

A little naked play time!

3 Months Old

2009-12-12T09:40:00.002-06:00

I am posting this one a little late, but we did actually take the picture on the 2nd when he turned 3 months old. Hudson's little personality is really starting to come out, and we are enjoying every minute with him!

"Marry Me Carrie!"

2009-12-07T20:08:00.002-06:00

My little boy is in love...with Carrie Underwood! While watching her holiday special on TV my little man fell head over heels in love. He couldn't get enough of her! I have the pictures to prove it too...

Sorry buddy, she's too old for you. But, I'm sure when you're old enough you can find yourself a cute little blonde!

Thanksgiving 2009

2009-12-04T18:17:00.009-06:00

This year was such a fun Thanksgiving. My brother's family from Albuquerque met us in Abilene this year. My grandmother (Meme) also came from Odessa to spend the holiday with us. Between my side of the family and Cody's side of the family I think we had 15-20 people in town for Thanksgiving day. We spent the week eating, playing card games and eating some more! We also got some great family pictures taken by Lindsey Cotton (Cotton Photography) while we were in town. I hated for the week to end, but we're already planning a Christmas in Colorado with everyone soon so we can't wait for that!

Aleigha and Hudson hanging out together on the couch watching the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade.

Rylan, Nonni and Anicia making ornaments

RoRo and Rylan

Fishing with the Spiderman pole. I have to say that I am impressed...my 2 year old can cast a fishing pole by himself and get it about 4-5 feet out in the water!

Helping Papa feed the cows

Sitting on the tractor with Aleigha

Maddie and Rylan wrestling Uncle Josh (my brother)

Maddie was fascinated with Hudson the entire week. We think she thought he was a baby doll. She loved to touch his head and just be close to him all week.

More Conversations With Rylan

2009-11-22T10:22:00.002-06:00

* While we were eating at McAlister's Cody reached over and took a piece of Rylan's Grilled cheese sandwich. Rylan waved his hand at Cody and said, "Shoo fly, don't bother me!"

* We were all in the car and I was reminding Rylan that we celebrate Christmas because it's Jesus' birthday. I then told him that Jesus had a mommy and daddy and his mommy's name was Mary. I asked Rylan if he knew what Jesus' daddy's name was. He enthusiastically replied, "Uh huh! Cody!"

* Cody took a bite of my sugar cookie that I got at McAlister's and he made a funny face and said it didn't taste good to him. Rylan looked at me and said, "Your cookie make Daddy sad Momma!"

* We we talking about being a good boy because Santa only brings toys to little boys who are good. Rylan replied by saying, "Daddy is BAD boy!"

* Last night he pulled the back side of his underwear down, turned around where his bottom was face us and said, "I shake my booty!" as he wiggled his little bottom.

Lately Rylan has kept us laughing so hard. I honestly think my 2 year old is the funniest person I know! I love the kid so much and every day with him is a blessing...even the days where he makes me want to pull my hair out!

Say A Little Prayer For Me

2009-11-11T13:41:00.002-06:00

Today is a difficult day for me, with so many emotions. I go back to work tomorrow. I have been home with Hudson for 10 weeks now, but it seems like it went by so fast! Please pray that tomorrow morning goes smoothly as I drop both kids off and head to work. I'm sure 3:30 won't come fast enough for me.

I love you buddy and I'm sure I'll be thinking about you every minute of the day tomorrow.

2 Months Old

2009-11-04T14:21:00.011-06:00

2 Month Stats

Weight: 11 pounds 13 ounces (50%)

Length: 22 1/8" (10%-25%)

Yesterday I took Hudson in for his 2 month well visit. He started all his vaccines and got his routine check by Dr. Lanman. Overall, he is a perfectly healthy little boy...other than his reflux issues. Dr. Lanman has increased his dosage of Prevacid which should help. We'll keep our fingers crossed!

He was pretty drowsy and "blah" yesterday afternoon after getting his shots. The real shocker is that he ate at 6:45pm, went to sleep at 8:00pm and did not wake up again until 5:00am!! He went more than 10 hours in between feedings! I wish I could say that I got some good sleep since he slept so well, but I didn't. I kept worrying about him and getting up to check on him. Oh well...

I pulled out Rylan's baby book to look at his 2 month stats and I was shocked when I saw them! At 2 months Rylan was 25" (almost 3" longer) and 14 pounds 9 ounces (almost 3 pounds heavier)!! My boys are night and day of each other!

Things Hudson Is Doing At 2 Months

* He is a smile machine! All you have to do is look at him and he will smile at you. His little toothless grin is precious.

* He still doesn't sleep great at night. He usually doesn't fall asleep for good until about midnight and then he is wide awake about 5:00am. He has yet to sleep flat on his back in the crib/pack n play. Due to his reflux he has to sleep inclined in the swing. We're hoping this all changes in the months ahead!

* He has noticed his hands and LOVES to hold them up to look at them.

* He can stay in a bath tub for 30+ minutes and be as happy as can be. He loves to kick around in the water. In fact, if he is ever too fussy during the day I go put him in the tub to calm him down...it's worked every time!

* He coos quite a bit and even lets out a scream every once in a while...by the look on his face he surprises himself with the screams.

* His eyes are still a dark blue and his hair is a dark blonde.

* He loves to be read to. He especially likes the bright pictures in the book Chicka Chicka Boom Boom. He can be content looking at the pages in that book for a long time.

Hudson, you have brought so much joy to our little family. Your smile somehow makes all the sleepless nights okay. Although momma doesn't particularly enjoy being woke up at 3:00am to play on the floor, I do know that these are the memories that I will look back on years from now. I can't help but look at you and wonder how God made something so completely perfect. I know in the blink of an eye your tiny little hands will become bigger than my own, so I try to treasure each time you wrap all your fingers around one of mine. Your little sneezes and yawns melt my heart and I wish sometimes that I could just freeze this moment in time. But, I know that I can't, so as time goes on I will watch with pride as you learn your first words, take your first steps, and grow into man with a heart yearning to be like Christ. I love you sweetheart!

Happy Halloween!

2009-11-03T15:26:00.008-06:00

On Halloween night we took Rylan to a couple of friends' houses and then to a few neighbors we know. Mostly he was just excited to get dressed up in his puppy costume again. Luckily, Stacey saved the day by getting him a cup full of Skittles because everywhere else we went they handed out chocolate, which my child CANNOT STAND...I know, hard to imagine!

I also got Hudson dressed in his giraffe costume for the evening. He was so laid back and made the cutest giraffe I've ever seen!

When I got out the black face paint to paint Rylan's nose he saw all the other colors. He told Cody that he needed a 'yellyo' nose. So, Daddy sat down to get his nose painted by a 2 year old.

Rylan was pretty pleased with his work!

My little puppy all ready to go...although the candy eating started before we even left the house!

SO excited to be in his costume!

Hudson...so laid back...just going with the flow.

Our family...with 1 tired puppy!

My Smiling Heart

2009-10-30T18:35:00.008-05:00

If it's possible for your heart to smile, then mine wore a permanent grin all day!

The day started off at 5:00am in the kitchen. I was in charge of bringing the snack/dessert for Rylan's class party today. So, at 5:ooam I was in the kitchen making 'worms in dirt' for his Halloween party...I had already made the Halloween Chex Mix cups the night before. As I was making them I couldn't help but think about the NUMEROUS times my mom did the same for me when I was younger. She never just bought store made cupcakes or cookies. She always woke up extra early the day of my class party to make something special. I remember how special I felt that my mom always did that, and I hope my boys will grow up with similar memories.

Chex Mix cups with M&M's and candy corn.

And a special Halloween straw to top it off.

Worms in dirt...a Halloween party classic!

After I finished up the party treats I went and woke Rylan up for the day. He usually eats cereal for breakfast so I made his usual and handed it to him. That is when I heard my little man politely say, "No sanks, shicken nuggets pease!" What?! Chicken nuggets for breakfast?? For a moment I thought about saying no and then I figured, what the heck, sure, let's have chicken nuggets for breakfast! So, before leaving for school he finished off 5 chicken nuggets.

Whoever said Wheaties was the breakfast of champions obviously never had chicken nuggets for breakfast!

Then, last week the kids at Rylan's school were suppose to decorate a pumpkin and bring it in for a decorating contest. It was tempting for Cody and I to take over and really decorate it like we thought it should be decorated. However, I set out three colors of paint and just let Rylan go at it. He worked and worked on it until it was totally covered in paint. Well, today when I walked into the lobby of his school to pick him up I saw it...his pumpkin with a FIRST PLACE ribbon on it! He won the contest for his age group. I cannot even explain the look on his face when I showed him his prize winning pumpkin! He is so proud of himself and he has talked about his 'punkin winner' all evening! Now, how do I convince a 2 year old that we cannot save and keep a pumpkin on his dresser forever?

The most beautiful pumpkin I've ever seen!

Cutest Dang Puppy Ever!

2009-10-29T12:55:00.006-05:00

Monday night Rylan had his Fall Festival at his school. We went last year, and he had a blast so we were excited to take him back again this year. Stacey and Madison volunteered to take Hudson for the evening so Cody and I could spend time with just Rylan. So, we got him dressed up in his puppy costume and painted his nose black. At the festival he played all kind of games and got a bag full of candy. He even went through his first haunted house with Cody and came out laughing! Of course we love Hudson to death, but it was nice to have an evening with just Rylan.

Waiting in line for his turn at a game.

Throwing the bean bags through the pumpkin. Ms. Michelle is the lady on the right side of the picture. She was his teacher last year and he ADORES her!

Shaking the little black tail as he walks.

SKITTLES!!! You have to understand that my child will turn down anything chocolate. He can't stand M&M's, chocolate donuts, Hershey's Kisses, etc. However, he will do anything for Skittles. So, as soon as he realized he had some Skittles in his bag, he wanted to just stop were he was and rip open the package. We had to remind him that there were more games to play.

Daddy and his little buddy

Loving my puppy!

Pumpkin Patch Attempt #2

2009-10-25T15:37:00.012-05:00

The first time we went to the pumpkin patch a couple of weeks ago it was a cold, windy day. So, we decided we should give it one more try. My dad came into town for the weekend to visit us so we figured it would be a good time to go back to the pumpkin patch. Rylan once again, fed the goats, went on a hay ride, ran through the pumpkins, and rode the little train with his daddy. I was also able to get more pictures this time. It was a fun way to spend a lazy Sunday!!

Making his way through the maze.

Looking at the longhorn with Daddy...but not brave enough to touch the horns!

"Momma posed me for this picture."

Picking out a pumpkin

He found one just his size!

Just relaxing in the pumpkin patch

Rylan found some new friends

"Cheese!"

Loving the train ride with Daddy!

This is by no means a great picture, but it was the best one we could get of the two of them together. Hudson was hungry and not in the mood. Rylan was trying to be such a good big brother though by holding Hudson's pacifier in his mouth.

No, the little pumpkin in the middle is NOT for sale!

Pumpkin Fun

2009-10-22T11:25:00.008-05:00

Tuesday night our kitchen table turned into pumpkin central. Rylan and Daddy cut the top off the pumpkin and cleaned it out. Then, we couldn't resist putting Hudson inside the pumpkin for some pictures. Rylan had a blast painting the pumpkin after we were done with Hudson...the pictures are proof of that!

Helping Daddy spoon out the seeds.

Our little pumpkin!

So sweet!

My TWO pumpkins!

Apparently this was pumpkin/face painting

The bath tub looked a little nasty after this one!

Hudson's Smile

2009-10-19T10:38:00.003-05:00

On October 8th I got one of those little moments that I live for. While I had Hudson on the changing table getting him dressed for the day I was talking to him and telling him how much I love him. Right after I said "Momma loves you more than you will ever know" I got the BIGGEST smile I have ever seen!! I went to get the camera hoping he would do it again, and sure enough he had become my little smile machine that morning. Ever since he has been grinning at anyone and everyone who will talk to him.

Also, on October 16th Hudson began cooing. It's the softest, sweetest little sound ever and it absolutely melts my heart!

You precious baby...you have no idea how much joy you bring into my life!

Loving Our Conversations These Days

2009-10-13T15:07:00.004-05:00

I don't know if it's the age or what, but Rylan has been cracking me up lately with the things he says and does! I love seeing how his little mind works and how he reasons things. Below are a few of his latest and greatest.

* Hudson has started smiling at us so I had Rylan on my lap with Hudson trying to make him smile. When Hudson finally smiled at Rylan, he yelled out, "Oh no! His teef (teeth) all fall out!"

* After picking him up from daycare one day we were talking in the car. He would tell me things and I would respond by saying, "You're right buddy. You're so smart." When we drove into the neighborhood he saw a boat and said, "Look momma, a boat. Boat goes in water." I simply responded with a "Yes it does." After a short pause Rylan asked, "Momma, am me smart?"

* He calls pumpkins orange apples.

* When we are ready for him to go to bed we set the timer and tell him he has ____ more minutes to play or watch his movies. The other day he was in the bath and I told him it was time to get out. He held two fingers up on his hand and said, "No momma, me have 2 minutes."

* At daycare he walked up to a group of little girls playing in a circle and said, "Who wants to mooch me?" Oh Lord help me!!

* This is a bit embarrassing, but we were checking out at Target a week or so ago and Rylan was sitting in the cart. The cashier was talking to him when he looked right at her, picked his nose, stuck his finger (booger included) in his mouth and said, "Mmmm, good!" We'll have to work on that one!

* Admittedly I haven't shaved my legs in SEVERAL days...give me a break I'm sleep deprived and have a new baby. A few nights ago I was sitting on the couch and Rylan came up to me and put his hand on my leg. He immediately jerked it away and said, "Your yeg (leg) stuck me momma!"

* I was holding Hudson and Rylan said, "Hudson in your tummy." I said, "Yes, Hudson was in my tummy wasn't he?" Rylan paused and then poked me in the stomach and said, "Put him back." Ha! Sorry buddy, your 10 pound brother is NOT going back in my tummy!

Buddy, what would I do without your funny comments and actions? I look forward to waking you up each morning because I know I'm going to spend a good part of my day laughing at you and with you! I love our conversations! You bring so much joy into our lives!

Big Orange {COLD} Pumpkin Farm

2009-10-12T09:02:00.009-05:00

This past Saturday we headed out to the Big Orange Pumpkin Farm with the family. Cody's parents, his grandmother, his brother's family and my mom all came in for the weekend. It wasn't the nice sunny day we were hoping for, but we all bundled up and made the most of it. Rylan and his cousin Anicia had a great time. Rylan fed goats, went on a train ride with daddy, enjoyed a hay ride and ran through the big pumpkin patch. It was so much fun and I got some good pictures. However, I do plan on going back with the boys on a warmer weekend to get better pictures of them in their overalls minus the winter coats and hats.

Loving the train ride with daddy. Notice his hand on the horn...he squeezed it nonstop during the ride!

Rylan LOVED LOVED LOVED feeding the goats!! He would get so excited when they took the food from his hands. He would yell, "they likes it!"

Can you tell he's just a little excited?

Running in the pumpkin patch.

Rylan and Anicia

Daddy got a kick out of Rylan running down the rows of pumpkins

Oh how I I love MY little pumpkin!!

Having a blast!

Hudson slept through the whole thing. I had him in the Moby wrap and he just snuggled down and went to sleep. Thanks for keeping momma warm buddy!

29 Is Starting Off Pretty Good!

2009-10-09T20:16:00.007-05:00

When I woke up this morning for my 29th birthday I had no idea that my 2 year old would be so excited for this day. I can't count the number of times he has said "Happy Burpbay Momma" today. He also enjoyed singing happy birthday several times, and each time he did it with such enthusiasm.

I love that my little boy can be so excited for other people. It doesn't have to be about him, but he gets so much joy just being part of any celebration. I hope he always remembers that one of the greatest things in life is SHARING in other people's joy!

Trying some icing from the giant cookie at 6:30am!

The birthday cake that Rylan picked out. He specifically picked out the pink icing for the writing.

Putting the candles in my cake...just the way he wanted to.

The best candle arrangement I've ever seen

His second dose of icing for the day!

Ready for a bath

Scrub-A-Dub, Hudson's In The Tub!

2009-10-08T10:37:00.003-05:00

These pictures are actually from a couple of weeks ago. Hudson hasn't quite decided if he likes baths or not. Usually he's pretty good until we start washing his head. He has pooped a time or two in the tub and big brother Rylan is VERY quick to tell him that we don't go 'oh shoo' in the bath. You'll see in the last picture that Rylan is quite the helper at bath time...usually helping wash Hudson's toes, which he thinks is a BIG responsibility!

1 Month Old

2009-10-02T19:44:00.002-05:00

Today Hudson is officially 1 month old! When I think back on this last month, sometimes I feel like it's flown by and other times (mostly in the middle of the night when we're up) I feel like it has taken forever to get here. Either way we are totally, completely, madly in love with this little boy! Here are a few things that we have experienced this month with Hudson...

* We dealt with his jaundice until he was about 2 weeks old. During that time all Hudson wanted to do was sleep which made it hard to wake him up to feed him. It eventually cleared up on it's own without any intervention though.

* Hudson can hold his head up on his own for about 5-10 seconds. Sometimes he looks like a bobble head doll, but other times he can hold it pretty steady.

* His eyes are still blue and his hair is much lighter than Rylan's.

* Hudson loves to be wrapped in thick, furry blankets. He doesn't really want to be swaddled, but just surrounded by a big blanket.

* He still isn't sleeping too good at night. We're hoping this gets better before we lose our sanity!

* We get different opinions on who he looks like. I think he DEFINITELY has his daddy's shape eyes! I also think he has his nose, but the mouth looks more like mine.

Momma, Daddy and Rylan love you so much Hudson!

One Of Those Moments

2009-10-01T08:13:00.003-05:00

As a mother I've realized that there are those little moments when Rylan says or does something that makes me realize Cody and I really are doing a good job raising him. These little moments mean so much to me since some days I feel like all I do is tell him no and get on to him for not listening to me. Well, the other day I got to experience one of those moments.

Rylan woke up burning up Tuesday morning. His temp. was 102.4 so I kept him home and took him to the pediatrician. Dr. Lanman came in and looked in his ears and listened to his chest with her stethoscope. I was so surprised when Rylan sat perfectly still for her when she listened to his chest. This is the conversation that followed between Rylan and I.

ME: Did Dr. Lanman listen to your heart?

RYLAN: Uh huh, she hear Jesus in my heart.

ME: She heard Jesus in your heart? What did Jesus say to her?

RYLAN: He say he my Jesus.

WOW!! COULD MY OWN HEART HAVE POSSIBLY FELT ANYMORE JOY?! My precious little boy has Jesus in his heart! Right then and there in that doctor's office I gave thanks.

You're right buddy, Jesus is in your heart and that's exactly where He wants to be!!

Bring It On Timmerman Family!!

2009-09-22T14:23:00.002-05:00

So it is officially the 2nd Annual War Week for the Salyers and Timmerman families. Cody and Keri's teams play each other Friday night for the second year since they are in district together. Last year we declared war on the Timmerman's but they failed to match our efforts! We'll see if they have what it takes this year to hang with us during War Week. Bring it on Keri and Nat...let's see what you've got!

Let the "gift" giving begin!!

(Just a reminder of what we did to Keri's car last year)

Sleep Deprived But Loving Our Boys!!

2009-09-20T18:22:00.006-05:00

I have been meaning to post some pictures on here for a few days now, but diaper changes and feedings have ruled my life the past two and a half weeks! My mom and grandmother left this afternoon so we are officially on our own with two kids...Lord help us! Ha!

Rylan continues to be a GREAT big brother! He is so sweet to Hudson. He tells him, "It's okay Hudson, don't cry" when the baby gets upset. He also gives him countless "mooches" during the day. We still take Rylan to his school during the week, which I think has really been good for him.

Hudson is our little chunk. We took him back to the doctor for his 2 week check and he was 9 lbs. 5 ounces...a 14 ounce jump in just 9 days! He has also grown an inch since birth. Needless to say, the boy likes to eat! He is still pretty laid back for the most part. He's not sleeping too good at night, but I guess that's expected until he settles into a routine. Overall though, we are totally in love with him!

Rylan is always so sweet to Hudson

My blonde headed little boy...I love it!

Cody and his two boys

Snug as a bug!

Rylan watching his Little Einsteins DVD and relaxing on the big chair

Our Sunday afternoon nap.

Surviving Our First Week

2009-09-10T09:08:00.008-05:00

Well, Husdon was officially a week old yesterday. I swear...when you're at the end of your pregnancy it seems like it takes FOREVER for a week to go by. However, once the baby is here you wonder how in the world 7 days flew by! Maybe that has something to do with being in a sleep deprived survival mode for the first few days!

Hudson is doing great! He has gained 5 ounces of his weight back which brings him to 8 pounds 7 ounces right now...still a big boy. He is the most laid back baby I have ever seen. He sleeps his life away and as long as he gets fed ever 2-3 hours he is a happy boy. He is also such a snuggle bug! He LOVES to be held...literally all day! Overall, he is completely precious!

Rylan is doing pretty good. He is very sweet to Hudson, but he is having a little trouble adjusting to the new dynamic in the house, which is completely understandable. I still feel guilty that I can no longer give him 100% of my time, but I'm sure we will all fall into a comfortable routine in time. For now we just try to be patient with him and remind him that we love him SO MUCH!!

It's obvious Hudson is a second child...we waited until after he was born to put the stroller together. As you can see Cody had a helper.

Looking way too cool!

Rylan attempting to show Hudson how to use his new play mat.

Sweet angel!

All snuggled up with RoRo.

This is probably one of my favorite pictures of him so far!

Hudson Colt Is Here!

2009-09-05T20:26:00.008-05:00

Hudson Colt Salyers was born on September 2nd at 7:47am. Of course I had a c-section since Rylan had also been a c-section. I do have to say that a scheduled c-section is the way to go...no labor! We knew Hudson would be a big baby, and we even thought he might weigh more than Rylan had at birth. However, he came in just 1 ounce shy of Rylan's weight. His official stats were 8 pounds 15 ounces and 20 1/4" long. I was so happy to see my big healthy boy Wednesday morning!

We just got home from the hospital this afternoon. Luckily my doctor only made me stay 3 nights rather than the usual 4 nights after a c-section. While in the hospital Hudson had a hard time eating which has resulted in him being a little jaundiced. He is starting to feed a little better so it should correct itself. Other than that we have a perfectly healthy baby boy!

Rylan has been so loving and adoring of his little brother. He loves to hold him and give him lots of mooches. Of course he is a typical two year old that has his moments, but for the most part he has been so good!

Our first time to see our precious boy!

Getting a little loving from Rylan right after surgery.

The BIG BROTHER!!

Hudson is such a snuggle bug!

I love to watch him sleep!

Daddy catching a little nap with Hudson before his game Friday night.

He loves to suck on his fingers...and he's not quiet about it at all!

Ready to go home!

Our Big Day!!

2009-09-01T21:43:00.002-05:00

Please say a little prayer for our family tomorrow morning. My c-section is scheduled for 7:30. We are anxious, nervous and excited all at the same time. We can't wait to see our precious baby boy! We'll get pictures and updates on the blog as soon as we get home.

Cute Shirts!

2009-08-17T16:25:00.002-05:00

Let me first start off by saying yes I am that mom that can't wait to dress her two boys in coordinating Easter outfits, Halloween costumes, holiday t-shirts, etc. Ever since we found out we were expecting another boy I have been looking for some cute matching shirts for the boys to wear when Hudson is born. I finally found the perfect set online at Etsy. If you aren't already an Etsy fan, you seriously need to check it out! A woman by the name of Annie Hacker has a shop on Etsy called Funky Monkey Threads (funkymonkeythreads.etsy.com) and she makes the cutest sibling sets ever! I just got these in the mail today and now I really can't wait for my two boys to be side by side in their matching shirts! I think I may have them both wear these the day we bring Hudson home from the hospital.

"Hudson's Big Bro" and "Rylan's Baby Bro" shirts...and a cute little hat to match!

(You really need to enlarge the picture to see how cute they are)

Thank Goodness For The Leather Couch!

2009-08-16T13:16:00.002-05:00

Last night Rylan didn't really eat any dinner and then started complaining that his tummy hurt as the evening went on. Rylan has always been my baby that gets sick, but NEVER acts sick. He can have a fever of 103 and be running through the house playing with his toys. Although I am thankful that he isn't a whiny kid, it does make it hard to tell when he really feels sick. Well, we were just about to put him to bed when he crawled up in my lap on the couch and said, "My tummy hurt Momma." About 30 seconds later he vomited EVERYWHERE...all over the couch, all over me and all over himself! I think he vomited 3 times in a row before the damage was done. Without being too graphic for those with weak stomachs, I do have to say that I have no idea how his little stomach was possibly holding that much! However, the best part (if you can really call it that) of the whole situation is that we have a leather couch. After showers and new clothes I began working on the couch clean-up. If our couch had been covered in fabric it would have been a total loss! However, with a little paper towel, Clorox wipes and some elbow grease it is now good as new! After getting everything cleaned up Rylan seemed to be 100% better so we went ahead and put him to bed, and he fell asleep pretty quickly. Then, about an hour later Cody heard him cry out on the monitor. He went in there and Rylan had vomited on himself again, but was so tired that he just rolled over and kept sleeping...poor baby! So, we got him up and back to the bath tub we went. While Cody got him cleaned up I stripped his bed and got him new sheets. His "night night" which is his favorite blanket was a mess and had to be put in the washer. Lucky for us he accepted a different blanket to use for the night. We were a little hesitant to put him to bed after that time so we let him come into the living room and rest on the couch (that was now cleaned up) and watch Mickey Mouse. In the meantime, Cody went to Albertson's to get some Motrin and Pedialyte since he was running fever. After getting the medicine in him and a few sips of the Pedialyte we put him down in bed again. I said a little prayer that he would have a good night, and God was listening! He slept through the entire night without anymore vomiting. He seems to be doing better today..no vomiting at least. And, I am thankful that it happened on the weekend and before Hudson's arrival! There is no worse feeling as a mother than watching your child get sick and cry and know that there is nothing you can do to stop it!

Sitting on the couch with our "puke bowl" while we watched Mickey Mouse.

Bittersweet Picnic

2009-08-13T07:40:00.004-05:00

Yesterday was my last day to stay at home with Rylan. It also hit me that it was my last day to stay at home with him as my only child. We had a picnic in the middle of the living room floor and watched Mickey Mouse. Rylan thought this was great since I ALWAYS make him eat at the table. After the picnic I surprised Rylan with some ice cream. Needless to say I spoiled him rotten yesterday!

Cody took him to school this morning and Rylan was a trooper even though he had to wake up about 2 hours earlier today. I'm sure he'll have a great day...but I miss him!

Rylan,

This summer has been so special since I got to stay home with you. We have played and laughed harder than I could have ever dreamed possible. I couldn't imagine waking up to a day without you! Things will change a bit when Hudson gets here, but I hope you always know that momma has a love for you that runs deeper than any words could ever express. You are my first baby, and you've taught me that being a mom is hard and wonderful all at the same time. You will be a great big brother and I can't wait to see you with Hudson. I love you buddy!

Momma

Can you believe this?! Momma is letting me eat on the living room floor!

Good food!

What a sweet little face.

Not All Gifts Are Sweet!

2009-08-07T10:00:00.003-05:00

This morning Rylan was having a great time playing in his front playroom while I was cleaning up the kitchen. All of a sudden he comes running into the room with his hands cupped and says "Look Momma!" as he hands me this....

(An internet picture of a gecko...did you really think I would get close enough to take a picture of the real one in my house?!)

Are you kidding me?! I freaked out, screamed and threw the gecko across the room. Now I have no idea where it is (but I'm pretty sure it's still alive and roaming around my house) and I CANNOT relax. I just know that if I don't find it I will wake up in the middle of the night with the creepy thing crawling on me! I feel like I need to call a hotel and make a reservation for tonight. I do like living in Texas, but the dang crickets and geckos are REALLY getting to me! So, thank you Rylan for trying to be sweet and give me a present, but mommy has learned today that I don't like to see my little boy coming at me with cupped hands. Next time I probably won't be so generous and accept your gift, but I will gladly escort you to the back door so we can free your "present" right next to our 70 pound dog!

Only 28 Days!!!

2009-08-05T12:09:00.006-05:00

Okay, here are the preggo pics so you can try to guess Hudson's weight. Please keep in mind that I have NEVER been the kind of person who thinks the bare belly pregnant pictures are attractive so you are getting fully clothed belly pictures...sorry to disappoint any stretch mark fanatics out there!! And, remember I still have 4 weeks to go!! The c-section is set for September 2nd and we're just keeping our fingers crossed that I can make it until that date.

I am spending my last week and a half at home with Rylan before I go back to work on the 14th. I have had a BLAST with my little man this summer, and although we are extremely excited to see Hudson, a part of me has to admit that I am feeling so guilty that Rylan won't get 100% of our time and attention anymore. I know he will adjust and be a great big brother, but the guilt is eating me up right now! I am also a little sad about spending 3-4 nights away from Rylan after the c-section. I have only left Rylan for ONE night...ever! I just love being with him! I guess I'm just at that point in the pregnancy where I am anxious, nervous and excited all at the same time!

There's just something about having 2 kids that seems like it makes you a "complete" family. So, I guess in about 4 weeks we will be a family of four and blessed beyond our wildest dreams!!

Front view: Don't be deceived...the belly is HUGE!

Side view: Told you so!
Now that you've seen the pics some of you may want to guess again.

Guess Hudson's Weight

2009-08-01T15:46:00.002-05:00

Okay, I am interested to hear how big everyone thinks Hudson will be. Although I am not fond of pregnancy photos I will get one up on the blog soon so you can see just how big my belly is...and remember I still have 4 weeks to go! I will give you some insight and tell those of you who don't know, Rylan was 9 lbs. at birth. So, when you get a chance cast your vote (on the right side of the blog) for Hudson's birth weight!

Hudson's Nursery

2009-07-29T12:25:00.006-05:00

As you all know Rylan's nursery was decorated in the antique baseball theme, and we have now carried that theme over to his big boy room. So, to say the least I am BASEBALLED OUT when it comes to decorating for little boys. I know it may seem silly to redecorate a nursery for a second boy, but I couldn't help myself. I never really found a bedding "set" that I loved so I ended up matching some stuff from Babies R Us together to make this brown/green monkey theme for Hudson. We painted just the wall behind the crib green and then painted the other 3 walls a cream color. I love the way it turned out! I owe a huge thanks though to my mom for coming to paint the nursery and to my mother-in-law for making the quilt and curtains for the room.

I painted these letters and then found these cute little monkeys to glue on

This is the sheet on the bed

The curtains

One of the monkeys on the wall

The bed, quilt and letters all together

Our First Glimpse At Hudson

2009-07-19T19:32:00.003-05:00

On Friday we went for a 3D/4D sonogram to try to get a good look at Hudson. We did this when I was pregnant with Rylan too, and loved the experience! This time my mom and Cody's mom were able to come with us, which was pretty special. We also took Rylan with us. He kept saying, "Hudson swimming in water" which amazed me since I swear we have never used that phrase. I have no idea where he came up with that, but it's pretty much true! Rylan has really started grasping the concept of having a baby brother lately. I think the two of them will be best friends.

We are getting so close to Hudson's arrival and I can't wait. Since this is most likely my last pregnancy a little part of me is sad that it's getting down to the end. However, I am also very ready and excited to see Cody finally get to hold his second little boy. I can only imagine what my life will be life with two rowdy little boys and a daddy that can get just as rowdy playing with them! I'm sure I'll have a blast though!

This is actually a 2D imagine of Hudson. This is a shot of Hudson's two legs and what is seen between those 2 legs...definitely a BOY!!!

Hudosn's little face. The left side of his face is covered by placenta, but you can at least see most of his face...right eye, nose, lips

Another picture of his face and his right arm is up by his face and his hand is playing with his right ear.

* During the sonogram we also saw Hudson have the hiccups and frequently he tried to get his fingers/thumb in his mouth. I already love this little boy so much!!!

Rylan's First Rodeo

2009-07-11T10:22:00.011-05:00

Last night we took Rylan to the Mesquite Rodeo and he had a blast! He got all dressed up in his cowboy clothes and he was definitely a hit with the girls at the rodeo! While at the rodeo he got to go on his very first pony ride, give some of the bullriders "knucks" and even pet the pick up man's horse during the show. As most of you know I also don't allow Rylan to have much candy, but I even agreed to let him have his very first cotton candy. However, he just picked off a piece, said "yuck, fuzz!" and gave it back. So, he was content with his bottle of water and a few peanuts during the rodeo. I'm sure we'll be going back again since our little cowboy had such a great time!

Dressed and ready to go.

We even went out for dinner before the rodeo. Rylan eating his grilled cheese and sneaking some of daddy's fries.

His first pony ride...lots of fun!.

Getting his program autographed by some of the bullriders and then giving them "knucks" for good luck.

All set up in his front row box seat!

Watching the rodeo.

This rodeo stuff is serious business as you can see by the look on his face.

Checking out the program while he watches.

Goodbye Old Friend

2009-07-07T10:19:00.004-05:00

Dear Diapers,

You and I go way back and I can't thank you enough for always being there for me. Okay, well you did let me down a time or two, but overall you've been a great friend over the years. Even when my mom didn't change me for several hours you just doubled in size and kept on working. And man, did you ever put in some overtime when I had C. Diff! However, in case you haven't noticed I am 2 years old now and it's time for me to move on. Afterall, I am going to be the BIG brother in just a few weeks. I have to be a good example for Hudson and show him that big boys wear big boy pants. That's why I have to say goodbye. Don't think this is easy for me because it's not. I will miss you for a while, but my mom assures me that I will be okay. Goodbye old friend.

Sincerely,
Rylan

Armed and ready with lots of big boy pants and some Skittles for rewards.

The froggy potty is ready.

His boxer briefs...just like the big boys wear.

Giving it a good try while he reads his baseball book.

Fellowship Of Christian Athletes Camp 2009

2009-07-05T18:41:00.016-05:00

This was our second year to attend the FCA summer sports camp. This year the camp was held on the Texas A&M campus since Baylor was undergoing some renovations. Although it was fun to see A&M, we are hoping it will be back at Baylor next year since the facilities there are MUCH nicer...sorry all you Aggies!

We packed up this past Tuesday and met up with the Timmermans to head to College Station. We all shared a 4 bedroom "apartment" which is part of the campus housing. Although we had some interesting times making a 1 year old, 2 year old and 4 year old get along for 5 days, I think it's safe to say that we all really enjoyed our time together!

Natalie and I did our best to entertain the kids while the guys were coaching in the mornings and afternoons. Although FCA offers some great devotional times for coaches' wives, we didn't participate in them this year since our kids were so small and we really didn't want to leave them in the daycare. Maybe in a year or two we'll be able to participate more.

Cody worked the baseball camp and had a great time. He also met some other great baseball coaches from around the state that I'm sure he'll be keeping in touch with. Although it was incredibly hot there every day (111 degrees on the baseball field!!!) Cody of course was just having a blast teaching baseball to kids.

We ran into one minor snag while we were there. On Friday I began feeling pretty bad...okay, really bad! I was so hot and nauseated even though Natalie and I were inside at the Children's Museum. I ended up leaving with Rylan and heading back to the room. I just rested the remainder of the day, but by 6:00 that night I was so miserable that I had Cody take me to the ER. I couldn't stand the thought of drinking or eating and I knew I was getting dehydrated. After some IV fluids and 2 doses of Zofran and a dose of Morphine I was finally feeling better and we were able to go at 10:00pm. By the next day I was REALLY feeling better and so far everything has been good since then. I really think I just got overheated and hadn't been drinking enough water. The baby had been moving around as usual and I was mostly just worried about staying hydrated to keep my amniotic fluid level up.

This morning we attended the last "chapel" meeting and it was awesome to see how many kids had accepted Christ this week as a result of this camp. I pray that these kids can keep this attitude and faith even when they leave camp and head home. Overall, we had a great time and look forward to going back next year...with a 3 year old AND a 10 month old!!

This wasn't actually at camp. This was a few days before we left for camp. Rylan put Cody's black socks on and then wrapped himself around this shade roll like a little monkey. The look on his face kills me!
We went to see the Bonfire Memorial on the A&M campus one evening. It really is a great memorial!

Rylan walking up to the memorial with his daddy.

Cody and Rylan on the other side of the memorial.

Taking a break and resting with Momma.

While we were at the memorial, Rylan fell head first into the black gravel that lines the entire walking path. As a result he has this nice little bruise on his head with some "connect the dots" scabs on his head and chin. He cried immediately, but then calmed down pretty fast and has been tough ever since.

Rylan and Daddy on Kyle Field.

We were there for the 4th so we pulled the car up to the top of the parking garage to watch the fireworks. Rylan was in the back of the car waiting for the fun to begin.

Our little family on the 4th of July.

Rylan watched the first few fireworks, but really wasn't too impressed. After about 2-3 minutes he just put his head down and went to sleep.

Sleeping through the fireworks on Daddy's shoulder.

Even when we got back to the room he was like a rag doll while we put his PJ's on. He didn't even know the world was spinning.

Still in the same position after taking his clothes off and changing his diaper.

Ready to head home...with his fishing hat on.

Say A Little Prayer

2009-06-24T20:26:00.002-05:00

For a while now we have set a routine of having Rylan say a simple prayer at bedtime. It started off with him just repeating us, but now he knows the prayer without much help at all. My heart absolutely melts when I hear my little boy praise God. He may not fully understand all the concepts of prayer yet, but hopefully we are setting the groundwork for raising a boy who truly desires to please his Maker. My proudest day as Rylan's mommy will be the day I stand with him and witness him accepting Jesus as his Savior.

RYLAN'S BEDTIME PRAYER

Thank you Jesus

For your blessings

AMEN!

"Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever." Psalm 118:1

Summer Fun For Only $99

2009-06-19T21:01:00.004-05:00

Earlier in the spring Cody and I discussed getting Rylan some sort of play yard or pool for the backyard. After looking around on the Target, Wal-Mart and Toys R Us websites, we decided on this water slide/pool. It is for ages 2-5, but don't let that fool you because I think Cody had as much fun on it as Rylan did today! Today is the first day we've set it up and it literally provided us with hours of entertainment for Rylan. He had a blast and he had to have gone down the slide at least 50 times. He even started going down head first on his belly. He is definitely our little water baby. He doesn't mind the water in his face at all! We plan on using this frequently throughout the summer and I'm sure it will prove to be $99 very well spent!

I stood at the bottom of the slide for the first few times because I was nervous his head would go under water and he would panic. Momma obviously worried over nothing because he didn't mind going under at all.

He would get to the top of the slide and then say, "Watch me!"

Having a blast!

BIG splash!!

A House Of Boys!

2009-06-17T13:52:00.006-05:00

This week Cody ran his baseball camp for 3rd graders through 9th graders. Josiah and Truitt (Cody's cousins) came to stay with us for a few nights while they attended the clinic. Truitt is going into 7th grade and Josiah will be a freshman. Rylan LOVED having the boys here! It was fun for us to have them here because they are about the same age apart as what Rylan and Hudson will be. We got a glimpse into the future...and apparently it involves a lot of wrestling in the living room! :-) The boys were so good and we hope they enjoyed their time here. If they come again next year for the clinic we'll have another boy to add to the mix. I did learn some things about teenage boys this week that may be beneficial for me in the future.

1. Apparently teenage boys don't know that they need to take a shower after sweating in 100 degree weather for 3 hours.

2. Even though a Little Tykes basketball hoop says it is for ages 2-5, it can easily entertain two teenage boys for hours.

Cody, Rylan, Josiah and Ripken playing in the little pool. Rylan just jumps right in no matter how cold the water is. Apparently Cody and Josiah thought the water was freezing. However, that didn't stop Rylan from trying to splash both of them. I love the look on Josiah's face!

Josiah was actually sitting in the kiddie pool relaxing even after Rylan got out...until Rylan proudly proclaimed that he pee peed in the pool. I have never seen someone jump out of a pool that fast!

Some more splashing!

After swimming Rylan decided to crawl up on the couch and watch Truitt play a baseball game on the Wii.

I swear we offered Truitt other sleeping arrangements, but somehow he managed to curl up and sleep on Rylan's Spider Man couch.

So Long Crib, Hello Big Boy Bed

2009-06-12T08:36:00.006-05:00

This past weekend my mom came into town to help us get Rylan's new room and big boy bed ready. Rylan actually had no desire to leave the crib, and we probably we have just left him there for a while longer. However, with Hudson coming in less than 3 months we really needed to get Rylan out of the crib and adjusted to his new room. We had done Rylan's nursery in a vintage baseball theme (I know, surprise surprise) so we wanted to carry that over to his new big boy room. My mom and I spent most of last Saturday painting the room. Cody was our work horse for the weekend. The room had always been a guest bedroom so we had quite a bit of furniture to move out and store in the garage. While my mom and I painted, Cody cleaned the garage out and got everything organized so we could store the furniture out there. The house was such a disaster during the day while we all worked, but the end product was well worth it!

Sunday night was the first night we attempted to put Rylan in his new bed in the new room. We were shocked when he went right to sleep and slept through the entire night!! As a matter of fact, he has done that every night since then too! Nap time is a little hard in the new bed. He hasn't really gone to sleep much, but he at least stays in there and has quiet time for over an hour. Overall, it has been a HUGE success moving Rylan out of the crib...what a relief! I can only hope for potty training to be this easy! Ha!

Below are pictures of Rylan's new "Big Boy Room" which he loves!

These are actually autographed pictures I bought for Cody a while back. The picture on the left is Yogi Berra tagging Ted Williams. The picture on the right is Ozzie Smith who was one of Cody's coaches during his minor league days.

Rylan's big boy sleigh bed and his baseball bean bag chair.

A couple of metal vintage baseball signs on the right and a picture of Cody when he played at ACU on the left. Rylan LOVES the picture of his daddy! Whenever you ask Rylan who the best baseball player in the world is, he yells "Daddy!" Like I told Cody, he may not have made it to the big leagues, but there is one person in this world who thinks he is the best baseball player who ever lived!

His new baseball bedding

Vintage baseball pictures that I found and framed when we set up his nursery a few years ago.

Rylan's new dresser that Papa and Nonni bought for him. Thanks Papa and Nonni!

Who Let The Dogs Out

2009-06-10T12:43:00.003-05:00

Daddy has taught Rylan the song 'Who Let The Dogs Out' which has now become a great source of entertainment for us. He gets so excited when he sings this song!

* Please excuse the mismatched PJ's. Obviously I hadn't done laundry in a few days.

5 Years...And Still Going Strong!

2009-06-09T15:09:00.003-05:00

June 5th was our 5th year anniversary! Five years have flown by, but so much has happened during that time. Cody and I have had some ups and downs during the past five years, but what amazes me is that each experience (good or bad) seems to only strengthen our marriage. Here's a little summary of our life over 5 years...

1. We bought our first home together. We are now quickly outgrowing this house, but I know it will be hard for me to eventually leave this house. This is where Rylan came home and Hudson will also. Who knew a house could mean so much?!

2. We went through a couple years of fertility treatment trying to become parents. After all the disappointing negative pregnancy tests, in vitro finally allowed us to become Rylan's mommy and daddy. What a rollercoaster ride!

3. Cody has been at 3 schools and now completed his first year as a head coach. From my best estimate I have now attended approximately 150-175 baseball games and about 45-50 football games in our five years of marriage.

4. We experienced the deaths of 2 grandfathers. My Poppy passed away in February of 2007 and Cody's Papa just passed away last month. We would have loved to have more time with them, but we also know we will one day join both of them in paradise.

5. We've experienced an "unplanned" yet extremely exciting 2nd pregnancy. After all this time of thinking and being told by doctors that we had little chance of getting pregnant on our own, I was shocked on January 2nd of this year to see a POSITIVE pregnancy test! In just 12 short weeks we will become a family of four!

6. More than anything, in 5 years I have learned a lot about marriage. Every day of marriage isn't exciting, but it's still what I want more than anything in the world. I love waking up and going to bed each day with the man that I vowed to spend the rest of my life with. It's so comforting to honestly say that we are stronger now than we were 5 years ago on our wedding day. It's even kind of fun to know that a "date" is now Taco Bell burritos on the couch while Rylan takes a nap. We definitely don't make a lot of money, but what we do have is worth more than any amount of money could ever buy!

I love you Cody! Five years is only the beginning, and I can't wait for the MANY more to come!

Rylan's Letter To PaPa Bud

2009-05-28T19:48:00.003-05:00

Dear Papa Bud,

We didn't have much time to get to know each other, but what I did learn about you I sure did like! My mommy tells me that my daddy is just like you so that has to be a good thing. I sure did enjoy showing off for you when we came into town. I tried to impress you with my baseball skills, and from the look on your face, you were impressed! My mom and dad said they'll tell me stories about you as I grow up. I think my daddy will have quite a few to tell about you. My biggest concern right now is that you get to play baseball with Jesus. Momma assured me that you can do whatever you want to with Jesus...even play baseball. So, while we're apart I promise to work on my swing and you tell Jesus to get his fastball ready because we'll all play a game together someday!

Love you Papa!
Rylan

Our Big Weekend

2009-05-25T12:05:00.008-05:00

We had a big, fun weekend! We picked my dad up at the airport on Saturday morning. He flew in from New Mexico to spend a couple of days with us. Rylan was so excited to get "Potty at airport" Saturday. He can't say Poppy so for now he is simply "Potty" to Rylan. Rylan also got a haircut from daddy for the first time Sunday. It turned out really good...and it saved us $20!! Then, Sunday night we went to a Grand Prairie Air Hogs game. Rylan was SO excited to go to the baseball game. We had front row seats right behind home plate. Rylan got to eat a huge bag of Skittles and he had a great time cracking open peanuts. It was a fun, relaxing weekend! Thanks Poppy (or Potty) for coming to see us!

Getting a haircut from daddy for the first time!

He started getting restless so I got him some raisins to eat and just tried not to think about all the hairballs he was probably eating with the raisins.

Sitting in the chair with daddy. For some reason every time Cody gets a glass of water, Rylan also wants one and then he wants them both to sit in this chair together to drink their water.

Waiting for the baseball game to start! Poppy got him his very own foam finger for the game.

Before the game started, the kids could go down on the field with their parents and play catch. This sounded like a good idea at first. However, Rylan has been spoiled since his daddy is a baseball coach. Rylan has always been allowed to run on the dirt on Cody's field. Last night though, Rylan had to stay on the grass and he didn't understand why.

Daddy and Rylan on the field together.

Sitting next to Poppy and cheering "We #1" with his foam finger.

Snuggling up next to Poppy.

Salyers Look-alike Meter

2009-05-20T20:39:00.002-05:00

I have seen this on some other blogs so I decided to give it a try. Cody and I had a good time picking out pictures and seeing what the meter came up with. The meter says Rylan looks more like me, but not by much. He's a pretty good mix of both of us. All the Look-alike Meters I have seen on other people's blogs have their child distinctly favoring one parent's looks by a large percentage. I think it's the eyes that make Rylan look a little more like me. Cody and I have looked back at my baby/toddler pictures and Rylan and I REALLY look alike at the that age. However, there's no mistaking that Rylan has Cody's nose and chin. Anyway, if you would like to try it out go to http://celebrity.myheritage.com/FP/Company/look-alike-meter.php.

Catching Up With The Salyers

2009-05-20T11:15:00.004-05:00

I have been horrible at blogging lately, but we have had a busy schedule. The last couple of weeks have been insane for us. I had to plan and run the senior night for Cody's baseball team last Tuesday. By the time it was all over, we didn't get home until almost midnight. That in itself was enough to wear me down, but it was such a success so I was happy. My rookie year as a head coach's wife is over!! By next year I'll be a seasoned pro at organizing the senior night.

Then, last Friday I was lucky enough to be honored at my school district's Galaxy Awards Dinner. I was nominated and received the award for School Nurse of the Year for the district. I consider it a HUGE honor since I think I work alongside some very intelligent nurses. It was a fun reason to get dressed up and have a FREE dinner and night out with my handsome husband. Stacey came over to watch Rylan that night and they had a blast. By the time last weekend rolled around Rylan and I were both getting sick. Luckily his congestion only lasted 2-3 days and then he was fine. However, mine continued to worsen so I broke down and went to the doctor earlier in the week. I have a sinus infection so hopefully the antibiotics will kick in soon!

Now we are just getting ready for my dad to come this weekend. We haven't seen him since Christmas so we are really looking forward to his visit. Rylan can't wait to see his Poppy! So...now your caught up on our crazy life. We hope everyone has a fun, safe holiday weekend!

Rylan asleep on his nap mat Friday night when we got home from my awards dinner. He was exhausted after our long week!

Mother's Day Weekend

2009-05-13T19:40:00.005-05:00

We headed to Abilene for Mother's Day weekend. On Saturday the weather was nice enough to go to the zoo. The Abilene zoo is just about the perfect size for Rylan right now. It only takes an hour or so to walk through and he loved it. The rest of the weekend was just spent hanging out with family and enjoying some days off. Cody and I both are counting down the days to our summer break! We can't wait to spend the summer just playing with Rylan while we wait for Baby Hudson to make his arrival!

I think two monkeys escaped from the cages!!

Feeding the "raff" some crackers.

Our little family

Rylan playing in the office at June's house...this is his little nerd look!

Crunching the numbers on the calculator

You Stick The Thermometer Where?!

2009-04-29T18:20:00.002-05:00

Yep, that's right...my 2 year old came into the living room and proudly said, "look momma" as he held the thermometer to his rear end. He hasn't been sick in a while so it's been a long time since we've used the thermometer to check his temperature. I guess he was just reminding me in case I forgot how to use it. He even made a point to show his daddy where it goes when he got home last night. What a little stinker!

Little Boys Are Dirt Magnets!!

2009-04-26T19:10:00.005-05:00

Since Rylan is my first child I am learning as I go. However, one thing I have learned is that little boys need a lot of baths! I've also learned that my little boy wears his dirt like a badge of honor. Some days I feel like we really might make the Guinness Book of World Records for number of baths taken in a 24 hour period! Lucky for me, he loves baths almost as much as he loves to get dirty. Anyway, I'm sure all you mothers of little boys can sympathize. It's a little scary to think what my bath tub will look like after bathing 2 little boys!!

So dirty after running and sliding on daddy's baseball field!

Check out those grass stains! I have a feeling I will become a pro at removing grass stains!

"If I can't get outside to slide in the dirt, then I'll find other ways to get dirty!"

Daddy's #1 Fan

2009-04-21T18:42:00.006-05:00

I've been meaning to post pictures of Rylan in his baseball uniform, but I kept forgetting to take my camera to the games. Finally, last night I remembered to take my camera and I got some good shots of our little MVP. I don't think I can possibly describe how much this little boy LOVES baseball! He absolutely lives to be at the field with Cody! Rylan knows the hand signs the umpires use for "out", "safe" and "homerun" and he imitates them during the games. When he sees one of the baseball boys slide, he immediately takes off running in front of the bleachers and slides on the concrete. Needless to say, he is great entertainment at the games. I can't believe another baseball season is almost over. It's even harder to believe that this time next year I will have TWO little boys to take to the field with me! I can't wait and I'm sure daddy will be so proud to have his two boys there to see him coach!

Yes, those are baseball pants, and yes that is the smallest size they make. I'm sure he can wear them at least another year.

This jersey is the exact jersey that the team wears. Cody was able to order one in a XXXS size from the company that made the team jerseys.

Our Exchange/Return Weekend

2009-04-18T15:08:00.004-05:00

Last night when Cody got home we started the task of exchanging all the stuff we had already bought and received for a little girl. For some reason Cody didn't want his second son coming home in a pink car seat wearing a pink dress...I can't imagine why not! So, last night we took all the clothes back to several stores and got a few new things for our little boy. This morning we headed to Babies R Us (Cody's favorite store) to return the travel system and the swing. We were able to find a new travel system, which we got. We also found a new swing, but they didn't have it in stock. Therefore, Cody is in luck...we get to go back to Babies R Us next Saturday to get the swing!! Now, all I have left to do is pack up the nursery bedding and return it to the online store. Then, we'll finally be ready for our little boy!!!

This is the travel system we had bought...why in the world would Cody have a problem with his son coming home in this?!

This is the new travel system we got today.

Turning 2 On Easter Sunday!!!

2009-04-12T20:14:00.011-05:00

We headed into Abilene for the weekend so we could spend Easter and Rylan's 2nd birthday with our families. Rylan's birthday just happened to be on Easter Sunday this year, which I think is pretty neat! We had so much fun spending time with everyone and of course Rylan made a haul on presents!! Here are some pictures from the weekend...

Rylan entertained himself with this basket for a good 30-45 minutes

Time to open birthday presents!!

Daddy's a good helper when it comes to opening presents

Rylan was really into tearing off the paper this year!

Nonni ordered Rylan this baseball cake

Blowing out the candle...because a big 2 year old can do this!

After body painting with some of the icing, Rylan finally decided to take a bite of the cake.

Now don't try to tell me that this isn't the cutest little boy around!! I LOVE dressing my little boy up on Easter and he was a HUGE hit with all the old ladies at church!!

Our little family...I LOVE this picture!! Two years ago today I ended up in labor for about 12 hours, followed by 2-3 hours of pushing that got me no where, and finally a c-section at 9:oopm...and look what a precious little gift I got!! Now I can't wait for the next one to get here!!