Life with the Lynchs

Happy Valentine's day

2012-02-14T09:18:00.000-06:00

LOVE

HUGS

KISSES

Happy Valentine's day 2012

Cuteness

2012-01-10T20:43:00.000-06:00

My mom (AKA Nana) made this cute sweater, hat and mittens for Ella Catherine. It has been unseasonably warm this winter but we finally had a cold enough day for her to wear it to school.

Happy New Year

2012-01-05T20:39:00.000-06:00

We had a very low key New Year's Eve at the Lynch house this year. I was on call for work and worked most of the day Saturday and Sunday. So, I didn't really feel like doing much. We let the kids stay up a little later than normal and after they went to bed Matt and I watched a movie. We watched the Ball drop in NYC and then the music note try to drop in Nashville before calling it a night. I told you it was low key.
Sunday, I did a little work, we went to church, I did a little more work and then Mimi came in town for the rest of the holiday weekend. We have been having a very mild winter So, the kids have been able to enjoy their swingset more than anticipated. As you can see in the pics Mimi also enjoyed it. :) We celebrated Christmas part 3 and the kids enjoyed having Mimi their to help them play with all their new things.

Big Sis pushing her little brother

Swinging with Mimi

Mimi helping With the monkey bars

Mimi helping carter open his Chuck the Truck

More presents

Trying on her new rain boots

Carter and in new "motorcycle"

A very merry Christmas indeed!

2011-12-29T14:23:00.000-06:00

We had a WONDERFUL Christmas and we hope all of you did as well. The kids gave us a Christmas gift by sleeping in. Matt and I woke up at 7am and realized that the kids were still sleeping. Knowing that it wouldn't be long before they were up, we decided to get up and get in position to capture the moment. Matt had video duty and I camera duty. I must say that I didn't get as many pictures as hoped for but Matt has some great video footage that we hope to share soon.

Santa has come

Ella Catherine's easel from mommy and daddy

First look to see if she made the NICE list

Ella Catherine's Stocking content

Carter not quite awake and not real sure what to make of everything

Starting to wake up

Matt's new footy pajamas from Santa Claus

Gator Golf from Becky

Christmas loot

FORE!

Playing barbie

Family T-ball time! First batter is Carter and he hit a single

With one man on base Ella Catherine hits a pop fly to advance the runner to second and take her place on first

Daddy is the clean up batter and hits a home run to bring everyone in. :)

Some swing time

Fun Christmas pancakes

"The Artist" at work. While she was painting this I asked her if she would like a drink. She replied "yes please". As I put the drink on the table, she put down her paint brush and said, "The artist needs a drink".

Her first painting on her new easel.

Carter's turn painting! Love the toungue sticking out as he works. His picture was beautiful just like his sister's.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T11:59:00.000-06:00

Christmas Eve

2011-12-24T12:16:00.000-06:00

Christmas Eve was full our our usual traditions. First we started by cleaning out our closets and the toy room. We give away our gently used toys and clothes for those little boys and girls that don't have as many toys as we have. We started this tradition when Ella Catherine was 2 years old and are hearts are always so overwhlemed by how generous they are about giving away their toys.

We attended the children's mass at church. We set Santa's cookies and milk out. Matt read Twas the night before Christmas and then it was off to bed for Sugar Plums to dance in our heads.

Our family after Christmas Eve Mass

LOVE

Daddy and Daughter

Ella Catherine pouring Santa's milk

Picking out just the right cookies for Santa

Here is Santa's snack

Mommy reading the last book in our advent book ( A new tradition this year)

Daddy reading Twas the Night before Christmas

Cookies for Santa Party

2011-12-23T11:25:00.000-06:00

We hosted our first Cookies for Santa party this year. Unfortunately, Carter was sick. We took him to the pediatrician and he thought it would be best if he wasn't at the party. So, Matt took him on a little boy's adventure while Ella Catherine and our friends made cookies for Santa. The kids had a great time cutting out and decorating their cookies. They each had their own cookie sheet to put them on so they didn't get mixed up. While the cookies were in the oven, I had some gingerbread men cookies they could decorate (Courtesy of Mimi). It was a great afternoon with great friends. We hope to make this an annual tradition.

Cutting out cookies

Kailey's cookies

Shaun's cookies

Libby's/Katie's cookies

Libby helped Ella Catherine decorate her cookies

Gingerbread men

mmmm gingerbread cookie

Christmas Round 2/ Nana and Pop's visit

2011-12-18T11:21:00.000-06:00

Nana and Pop came up for the weekend to celebrate Christmas with us. As always we had a fun weekend. Saturday, Nana helped me take the kids to see Santa (see below post) and then Saturday night Nana and Pop babysat while we went to a neighborhood tacky Christmas sweater party. I didn't get any pictures of Matt and I, but we were by far NOT the tackiest couple. We are already working on next years outfits.
Sunday we all went to church, to breakfast after and then we exchanged gifts. The rest of the afternoon the kids played with their new gifts and we all enjoyed visiting while watching some football.

Opening her new bitty baby outfit and a matching outfit for her

WOW a diego jeep and characters

Taking his time opening his gift

Here is one that says my name

Looking at her new scrapbook that Aunt Kelly and Cousin Cori gave her

Playing with his new Cars race track that Aunt Kelly and Cousin Cori gave him

Bitty Baby's oufit

Working on her scrapbook

Resting on the sofa with Pop

A visit with Santa

2011-12-17T11:05:00.000-06:00

I wasn't planning on going to visit with Santa this year after Carter refusing to go anywhere near him last year. However, about a week ago Carter started asking to go sit on Santa's lap. Every morning on the ride to school he would say "I sit on Santa's lap". So, decided to give it a whirl. Worst case scenerio he would refuse again...no big deal. Ella Catherine's dance class is right across from the Green Hills Mall. So, I thought i could take Carter to class and bring a change of clothes for her and we would head over right after class. The timing was perfect. Class was over at 10:30 and Santa arrived at 11am. Of course, the weekend before Christmas there was a bit of a line but it moved fairly well. I am glad that Nana was in town to help. Occupying 2 small children for an hour while we wait on Santa and keep our place in line is much easier with 2 adults. Carter suprised us and ran right up to Santa and jumped on his lap. However, my shy little guy didn't speak a word to Santa. Never fear though, big sis was there to fill Santa in on what Carter wanted. :)

Hugs and pushes waiting in line

More hugs

1,2,3 shoot....rock, paper, scissors

Anxiously waiting his turn

Picture with Santa (nana's from the side)

Ella Catherine brought Santa a hershey's peppermint kiss and was giving it to him

Santa gave her a big hug and kiss

I want pom poms, a Barbie, Barbie clothes

Christmas in Memphis

2011-12-13T10:41:00.000-06:00

We went to Memphis this past weekend to celebrate Christmas. Aunt Katie and Uncle Shannon hosted the weekend. Uncle Shannon out did himself cooking. The man has some serious culinary skills. It started with his famous "mancakes" on Saturday morning and was followed by an amazing traditional Christmas dinner: turkey, dressing, cranberry sauce, and green bean casserole. Mimi came over mid morning and stayed all day playing with the kids and visiting. Saturday evening Matt, Mimi, the kids and I went to go see "starry nights". It is a light display they set up in Shelby Farms every year and it is amazing! The kids enjoyed it and so did the adults. Afterward it was back to aunt Katie's and to bed for the kids. The adults watched the heisman trophy award show.....WAY TO GO RGIII! and ate Shannon's mom's homemade red velvet cake (it was worth every calorie). Sunday Grandpa, Grams, Uncle Michael, Uncle Christopher and Crystal came over for yet another great day. Shannon was up early cooking and the house smelled divine! On the menu for Sunday was deer stew, shrimp and sausage gumbo and salad followed by more red velvet cake. It was superb! I did remember my camera this weekend but forgot the battery (ugh!). So, the pictures below are courtesy of Grams.

Back row: Grandpa, Christopher, Michael, Shannon, Matt

Front row: Grams, Crystal, Ella Catherine, Carter, Katie and Amy

Ella Catherine and Grandpa

Brotherly/Sisterly LOVE

CARS!!

Carter playing with the dump truck Aunt Katie and Uncle Shannon gave him

Ella Catherine loving her Barbie and Barbie Car

Playing with Mr. Pickles

The Holmes: Uncle Shannon, Aunt Katie and Mr. Pickles

Our little Family

Oh Christmas Tree

2011-12-04T09:52:00.000-06:00

In addition to the Nutcracker, we went and picked out our Christmas tree. I forgot my camera for the actual picking out of the Christmas tree, but here are a few pictures of us setting up the tree and the final product with it all decorated.

The Nutcracker

2011-12-04T09:33:00.000-06:00

I have been looking forward to this day since Ella Catherine was born. As a teenager, I danced in Macon's production of the Nutcracker. From that time on it became a tradition for the women/girls in my family to attend the nutcracker every Christmas. So, I was thrilled when Ella Catherine saw the sign advertising the Nutcracker and asked if we could go. Nashville has two production's of the nutcracker every year, one danced by the Nashville Ballet and one by the youth ballet. Since I danced as a youth in the Nutcracker, I decided we should see this one first and I am proud to say I think I made a good choice. It was an excellent production and at intermission they had cookies for all the kids. She LOVED it and has already asked about going back again next year. (We may have another Nutcracker dancer in the future. )

Ella Catherine and I on our way to the Nutcracker

P.S. One funny statement by my princess about the Sugarplum Prince...." Boy's in tights are silly"

A few firsts on our Thanksgiving trip to Georgia

2011-12-01T10:35:00.000-06:00

We headed south to Georgia for Thanksgiving and Matt's annual hunting week. As usual it was a great week full of family, friends and great food. Matt enjoyed some male time with hunting, fishing and working the land at my parents cabin. Ella Catherine and Carter had some firsts that made their daddy very proud! Ella Catherine went hunting with daddy for the first time. No guns this trip just hanging out in the shooting house watching for wildlife. Both Carter and Ella Catherine had lessons in shooting the BB gun with daddy always helping out as the gun is still a bit big for them. I think Carter enjoyed it more than Ella Catherine.

Ella Catherine and Uncle Brian jumping on the trampoline

Playing a little football with Uncle Brian

Carter and mommy playing catch

Ella Catherine and Aunt Lori

Carter and Ella Catherine taking a boat ride with daddy.

Carter shooting the BB gun with daddy's help

Ella Catherine and Daddy ready for her first hunting trip!

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T14:32:00.000-06:00

Super Star of the week

2011-11-14T06:20:00.006-06:00

Ella Catherine was chosen to be the Super Star of the week. She had to fill out some information about her favorite things and then her teacher posted them on the bullentin board in her classroom.

Trick or Treat 2011

2011-11-01T20:00:00.002-05:00

Ella Catherine was beside herself with excitement this year for Halloween. Since last Halloween she has been talking about being a Butterfly, but about 2-3 months before Halloween she changed her mind and decided that she wanted to be a Super Hero.

As for Carter, well he didn't really understand about Halloween or trick or treating. So, when it was time to get dressed up to go, he was less than thrilled about the whole process. He didn't want his picture taken, and didn't want to hold his pumpkin. He changed his mind about holding the pumpkin when we told him that if he didn't have his pumpkin he wouldn't get any candy. :) Needless to say it only took 1 house before he realized trick or treating meant free candy. From then on he was all smiles.

We are very fortunate to have met some great neighbors this summer who have children the same ages. It made trick or treating that much more fun. Matt drove his truck and we all piled in back on a blanket and drove through the neighborhood. He would drop us off and park ahead. Made the hills in our neighborhood much more manageable. Some day we want to get a trailer and fill it with Hay and have a hayride trick or treat.

Is it a bird? Is it a plane?

No it's super Ella Catherine

One sad little fireman

One super excited super hero and one very sad Fireman. lower lip so big he could have tripped on it.

Ella Catherine, Shawn and Carter trick or treating

So, we were at this house and the kids were trick or treating when another group came up behind them and was waiting their turn. One of the middle school boys had a warewolf costume and Carter kept his eye on him. He wouldn't budge and even when the boy took his mask off I had to go up and get Carter by the hand to move past him. Carter kept his eye on him as we passed by and as we were walking away kept looking behind us to make sure he wasn't there. It was funny.

Carter and Libby trick or treating

Excited Super Hero having a blast!

The end of the night! We sat all the kids back on the tailgate for a group shot. From left to right:

Carter(fireman), Libby(Vanderbilt cheerleader),Ella Catherine(Super Hero)and Shawn(Batman)

Our much happier little fireman

Ella Catherine's mask shed its glitter all over her face so she looked like she had freckles

When we got home from trick or treating we let the kids pass out candy. As I was helping Ella Catherine get in her PJ's I heard Matt laughing. Turns out he told Carter he could hand out the candy and Carter stepped outside and yelled "I Got Candy, Who wants some Candy?"

Just like last year, I think they might have enjoyed handing out candy more than trick or treating....but not more than eating the candy. ;)

Walden Farm/Pumpkin patch

2011-10-23T21:13:00.001-05:00

We took the kids to Walden Farms' Pumpkin patch again today. This year Matt was in town and was able to go with us. It was a beautiful afternoon and we all had fun enjoying all that October and pumpkin patches have to offer.

Playing in the feed beds and seeing different types of grains

Candy corn face painting

Fun with face cutouts

Although he looks miserable, I promise Carter had fun

How tall is Carter?

How tall is Ella Catherine?

Carter LOVED the goats and they loved him. I think they thought he had food. :)

How about this one? Again, he thought this was his pumpkin of choice but the other side had bigger pumpkins.

Halloween choo choo ride.

heading off on their choo choo ride.

They had a remote control witch flying over head.

posing for a picture with Daddy

water pump

kid size maze...they did so well...no wrong turns

The afternoon wouldn't be complete for Ella Catherine without being able to make some sand art

or a fourwheeler ride for Carter

Not exactly the picture in the pumpkin patch I was looking for...Sun was in their eyes and Carter wasn't excited about his picture being taken. But LOVE them!!

Carter picking out his pumpkin

Ella Catherine with her choice

We decided to paint instead of carve our pumkins this year. Instead of drawing something for them to paint, I let them just paint what they wanted. They were so excited with their little works of art.

A Family Project

2011-10-20T20:13:00.002-05:00

Nana and Pop wanted to give the kids a playset for a joint birthday gift. We thought it was a great idea but we were still trying to get our yard in order. We only did some minor work in it when we first moved in last Summer. We had a lot we wanted to do and because of that we postponed getting the playset. Well, the yard is still a work in progress but it has come a long way. We finally cleared a space for the playset. With the beautiful fall weather, we couldn't think of a better time to get the playset.
So, I called a local playset company and placed our order. Obviously, others had the same idea as they stated it would be 4 weeks before they could install it due to other jobs. My parents intent was to give the playset installation included so that we wouldnt have to do anything but watch the kids enjoy it. However, we didn't want to wait 4 weeks and miss all the beautiful fall weather. So, we decided to install it ourselves. Make it a little family project.
Turns out it was way more involved than we imagined, but the instructions were FABULOUS!! All the peices had identification letter and numbers and the book went step by step in how to do it. The kids loved being able to help and it turned into a very fun family project.

The boxes it came in. Together they weighed 200lbs.

We layed out all the peices in alphabetical order and then in numerical order under that letter. this helped tremendously to check our inventory and in finding the right peices.

All the hardware....I'll admit seeing this was a bit overwhelming. But again we separated them into categories and then by numbers to make it easier to find the right screw, bolt, nut, washer etc...

Carter loved playing on the ladder after we put it together

Matt putting together the slide....truly the hardest part of the whole playset.

Ella Catherine holding it steady for daddy to bolt the peices together

Ella Catherine helping mommy hammer the ends in.

Ella Catherine put all the screws in and then Matt and I came behind her with the drill and screw driver and screwed them in.

Matt working into the night hours on the main peice

Ella Catherine playing on the monkey bars

Sliding down the slide

The finished product!!! Playhouse with bottom fort and an attached picnic table off the back, slide, swings and monkey bars. The kids LOVE it and have played on it nonstop.

Ella Catherine's First Sleepover

2011-10-16T20:11:00.001-05:00

Ella Catherine had her first friend come over for a sleepover this past Friday night.(10/14/11). Her BFF, Taylor D, came home with us from daycare. Both girls were over the moon about the sleepover and Carter didn't know what to think. The girls had fun playing dress up, coloring, running around acting silly and watching a movie. Carter was but a step behind the whole evening. The girls were really sweet and let him play too(for the most part). It was a bit of a challenge to get them to settle down and actually go to sleep. They finally did and slept all night without a peep from anyone. They rose bright eyed and bushy tailed Saturday morning just bursting with energy. We had a little breakfast and a little more dress up before heading off to their Saturday morning dance class.

On the blow-up mattress together watching a movie

Pretty princesses taking a walk on the treadmill

getting their costumes on

Daddy's company picnic

2011-10-10T20:01:00.001-05:00

Matt's company had their annual company picnic this past weekend at a park in Brentwood. It was a beautiful day! Perfect day to let the kids run around and play while the adults socialized.

Carter's first Haircut

2011-09-12T19:46:00.001-05:00

We made a trip to Macon for Matt to do some work at my dad's farm/land in preparation for hunting season. While we were there Carter received his first "big" boy haircut. Matt has been trimming it every so often to keep the back neat, but this was his first all over haircut. I couldn't think of anyone better to give him his first haircut than our friend, Wendy. She gave Cori (my niece) her first haircut and Ella Catherine her first haircut. So it seemed only right that Carter have his first haircut at Miss Wendy's too. She does such a fabulous job and is so quick. :) He was a BIG boy and sat still while she did her magic. He got a little nervous about the clippers on his neck but I think it surprised him more than scared him. I miss his little curls but he is sooo cute with his big boy haircut. My little guy is growing up WAY too fast.

Sitting on mommy's lap while Wendy gets started

Watching every move in the mirror

LOVE the look on his face. It is a "When is this going to be over" look. He might have thought it but he was good as GOLD

A trip to Macon wouldn't be complete without a ride on Pop's tractor

Taking a ride with Pop and Daddy on the golf cart

Elway couldn't resist hoping on for a ride :)

Shower time!

2011-09-07T14:47:00.005-05:00

Matt introduced Carter to the shower a few nights ago and he absolutely LOVES it! Anything to make bathtime smoothe is ok with me. So, he now prefers to take a shower in mommy and daddy's shower than a bubbles in the tub.

Tennessee Aquarium

2011-09-06T20:01:00.001-05:00

Labor Day weekend Mimi and Aunt Katie came for a visit(somehow Katie escaped being photographed this weekend...she won't be so lucky next time :) ). While they were here, we headed down to the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga. It is a must see if you are ever in Chattanooga. They have multiple exhibits that are interactive. You can pet sharks and sting-rays and even feed the sting rays. It is a wonderful family day/activity.

Carter reading "The Napping House" on the car ride

Mimi reading to Ella Catherine on the way down to Chattanooga. Mimi sat in the back with the kids and did a wonderful job keeping them entertained on our voyage.

Matt showing Carter the Parrots

Carter then showing Mimi the parrots

And here they are...Beautiful blue parrots

Riding the escalator like a big boy

Ella Catherine watching the Penguins. She had one that LOVED her! He would swim right up to where she was standing and just gaze at her, swim off and come back to gaze some more.

Mimi pointing out the sharks to the kids

One of the sharks. Carter LOVED this tank, we had to pull him away from it every time we passed on the different floors.

Carter and Matt taking a upper level look at the Otters

Ella Catherine enjoyed watching these otters play on land and in the water

Beautiful tank of rainbow trout

Carter in front of the trout

Matt showing Carter how you can pet the shark

Matt helping Ella Catherine Pet the shark

Matt helping Carter pet the shark. This did not go over so well and was followed by a blood curdling scream. Hoping it doesn't scar him. :)

He recovered just fine! He and Ella Catherine playing outside and getting some pent up energy out before we got in the car to head back home.

Take me out to the Ball Game

2011-08-29T19:30:00.000-05:00

Watching the game with daddy

My little man being a big boy and sitting in his own seat.

We met some friends and their kids at the Nashville Sound baseball game Saturday night. It was the last home game of the season and they were playing the Memphis redbirds. It was a wonderful night. They promised a spectactular firework show afer the game and it didn't disappoint! It was Carter's first firework show (he was in bed 4th of July). He was a little taken a back at first but once I covered his ears he loved every second. Ella Catherine LOVED it and had fun pointing out all the different colors. We were all set to go after the fireworks we had 2 tired munchkins but then the announcer came on and said that they were letting all the kids that wanted to down on the field to run the bases. Matt looked at Ella Catherine and asked her if she wanted to do it, without hesitation she said "yes". So, Carter and I went to the 3rd baseline to wait and watch while Matt stayed in line with her. WOW were there a lot of kids at that game. she waited patiently and when it was her turn she took off running and didn't stop until she hit home plate. So proud of her!

38 and feeling GREAT!

2011-08-24T13:15:00.002-05:00

Me sporting the beautiful necklace Ella Catherine made me for my birthday.

Working in the healthcare field can really make a girl feel grateful for another year. I celebrated my 38th birthday and my family made me feel like a queen. I am one lucky LADY! Looking forward to the wonderful year ahead.

Just LOVE this fun lantern from my parents. It is 1 of 2

Equally LOVE this one! Love having these unique accents to decorate our home

I've been saying that I am going to have the blog printed to document our lives for the kids and somehow I never get around to it. Well my wonderful husband went to blog2print and did it for my Birthday. LOVE LOVE LOVE it!

Dance, Dance, Dance!

2011-08-20T15:53:00.001-05:00

I'm not sure who is more excited about Ella Catherine starting dance lessons. You see when I was just about her age I started taking dance and continued to dance until I graduated from High School. I would never have made it on "so you think you can dance", but I loved it. I have such fond memories of dance class with my besties. So when she started asking about taking dance lessons in the spring I was all about signing her up. :)

Of course before we could start, we needed a little shopping trip.

Ballet shoes first

Trying to tie her tap shoes

The plastic straps are going to be key! Ribbons are pretty but not practical with a class of 4 year olds.

Taking them for a spin

Accessories are key! Gotta have the ballet bag.

One happy little shopper

Getting ready for her first class. She wanted some lip gloss

Me and my girl heading out for her first class.

Besties! Her sweet friend Taylor is in the same class which makes class twice as fun.

King of the Castle

2011-08-19T13:13:00.002-05:00

When we were parting ways in Chattanooga, Carter knew something was up when "E" got in the car with Nana and Pop. He started balling and saying "my sister, my sister". He was so upset! He followed my parents car with his eyes and was crying, pointing and screaming NO my sister! It broke my heart. Luckily it was short lived. It lastest about 10 minutes. Then we got him calmed down and on to other things. At this point I was a little nervous at how the week would go. He seemed so lost without her, but it was also when I realized exactly how good this week would be for him. He needed to learn a little independence from "E".

Matt had driven down to Chatty and so I offered to drive back to Nashville. Carter has always been our quieter child so we thought Matt would get in a good nap on the way back. Well....not so much. Turns out he isn't quiet at all. His big sister just suppressed him a bit. He didn't stop talking the entire 2 hour ride home (or the whole week for that matter). Needless to say, Matt didn't get in a nap. :)

The rest of the week, he was king of the castle! He enjoyed having mommy and daddy all to himself. He would wake Matt up at 5:15 wanting to play golf. So, they would hit balls until I came home from the gym. It was precious and he has a good little swing. Then it was off to school. I decided to take Friday off work to have some one on one time with him. We went to the zoo, met daddy for lunch and after naptime "E" was home!!!

Hitting balls

Lefty or righty? Not sure yet.

Big girl week with Nana and Pop

2011-08-15T08:11:00.001-05:00

When my mom called and asked if we thought Ella Catherine might want to come to Georgia for a week by herself, my first reaction was "I'm not so sure". You see anytime we talk about going somewhere her first question is are you and daddy going too. I guess she has become wise to us dropping her off with the grandparents for a weekend and Matt and I heading off to an event. :) So, I was a little skeptical when I asked her but as anticipated she asked the question "Are you and daddy going too." To which I responded, no it will just be you. You will be having a Big girl week with Nana and Pop. Her response "Carter?" again my response was no pumpkin it will just be you. Daddy and I will drive you to meet Nana and Pop and then you will get in their car and go to their house. Then at the end of the week they will drive you back to our house and spend the weekend with us to celebrate Mommy's birthday. She didn't hesitate with an answer, she said she wanted to go. Mom and I spoke several times about the plans and it was all set with the understanding that if at any point she became distraught and wanted to come home that Matt or I would meet them to get her and take her home. Luckily this was NOT needed.
On Sunday after 8 am church we set out for Chattanooga, TN. We met my mom and dad at Champy's for lunch. The owner, Seth, is the brother of one of our best friends. If you are ever in Chattanooga,TN, I would highly recommend stopping in for a meal. It is DELICIOUS! It was a beautiful day and so we sat outside on the covered porch with the fans creating a fabulous breeze. The atmosphere was as good as the food, the kids loved being able to move around. As promised after lunch, we transfered all her gear to Nana and Pop's car and they headed off to Georgia. How did Carter do? (well stay tuned for the next blog).
Why I ever thought she might get upset/homesick and want to come home I will never know. My parents had the weekend planned so well and her aunts, uncle, cousin and great grandmother, in addition to Nana and Pop showered her with so much individual attention that she ate it up! That isn't saying that she didn't miss us beacuse she did and we spoke every night so she could tell us about her day and we could tell her how much we loved her, but she had a fabulous time.
Pop took her out to the cabin and they drove the tractor, visited the neighbors horses and cows and took the golf cart on a spin through the hunting trails. They met Aunt Lori for breakfast and then went out to Idyll Acres Rescue Ranch. Ella Catherine enjoyed spending some time with Aunt Lori. They were able to pet horses, minature horses, donkeys, minature donkeys and goats. Aunt Lori did a wonderful job of encouraging her to feed the animals and pet the animals. Her favorite was a donkey named Candy, that had her hooves painted pink. She went with Nana, Pop, Becky and "Cousette" Cori to eat at the S&S cafeteria. This was my FAVORITE place to eat when I was a little girl. I remember very fondly going with my garndparents, Becky and Granddaddy. It was always so fun to walk down that line and pick out what I wanted to eat. (They always let me pick whatever I wanted. :)) Ella Catherine enjoyed it as well. Cori even took her back through the line to be able to pick out a dessert. When she saw all the desserts she said "that is a lot of sugar" gotta love the child of a dietitian! And what did she pick? Orange jello! :) The week also entailed some painting lessons from Nana and lots and lots of arts and crafts time...they made a BEAUTIFUL necklace for me for my birthday, they made T-shirts another fun bday gift, and lots and lots of coloring. She enjoyed playing cards with Becky and paper dolls with Cori. All in all a very successful trip. When Friday came, she was excited to get in the car and come see us. She and Carter hugged and kissed for about 30 minutes after she got home, then it was back to normal. :)

Making my BEAUTIFUL multicolored Rigatoni necklace

Petting the minatures horses with Aunt Lori

Feeding the minature horses with Aunt Lori

More feeding, but this time she just observed.

Enjoying the Rescue Ranch with POP, Aunt Lori and Nana (the one taking the pictures)

Checking out the Regular sized horses

Petting the horses

Candy with her pink painted hooves.

Riding the Tractor with Pop

Driving the tractor (LOVE this picture!)

Brushing "Cousette" Cori's Hair. Beauty Parlor anyone?

Playing paper dolls and building blocks

Painting. She has told me on multiple occasions that she wants to be a painter when she grows up.

Taking some pointers from Nana

Card shark in the making.

This is my favorite picture of all! Love seeing her play cards with Becky like I did when I was her age. Such a sweet memory captured on film.

Cleveland, Mississippi and a weekend with the Grandparents

2011-08-01T12:10:00.006-05:00

Our 6 men! From left to right, Brad, Roger, Terry, Kevin, Matt and Dave

Women behind the men! from left to right, me, Whitney, Sara Ella, Mary Beth, Julie and Kim

Matt and I headed to Cleveland, Mississippi this weekend. He played in an annual 6 man golf tournament while I had some fun with the girls hanging out poolside and doing a little shopping. The guys played great the first day but unfortunately despite playing good the second day didn't take home any prize money. The weather for the tournament is always brutal. July in the Delta is not for sissys.

What used to be a guys weekend (when the men were single) has turned into a couples weekend (now that most of the guys are married). I am sure they miss the old days of it being just guys but I for one am happy for the couples weekend. It gives me the opportunity to spend some time with some awesome ladies and just relax. I can't begin to tell you how much fun we had but what I can say is that we are already looking forward to next year!

For those of you worried about the munchkins, fear not! They had a blast the first part of the weekend with Grandpa, Grams, uncle Michael, Uncle Christopher and Aunt Katie at the lake. Then Aunt Katie drove them to Memphis to spend the remainder of the weekend with Mimi. They had a ball swimming in Mimi's neighbor's pool and having arts and crafts time.

Moving up...Carter's a Honey Bear

2011-07-05T17:07:00.005-05:00

Today was Carter's first full day in the Toddler 2 Classroom. He did GREAT and LOVED every minute. It is very surreal for me that he is now in the Classroom that Ella Catherine was in when we started the Vanderbilt Daycare in 2009. Doesn't seem like he should be old enough to be in this classroom but he is and was ready to move up with the bigger kids.

We are excited for the year ahead and all it entails (potty training and all!).

Saint Simons Island 2011

2011-07-01T14:25:00.006-05:00

My family grew up taking beach vacations at St. Simons Island, Georgia. I am so happy to be able to share my love for the Island with my own family. It is so special to watch them enjoy it as much as I do. We didn't plan anything, just tried to enjoy the Island life. We spent our mornings at the beach, we went crabbing off the pier, rode bikes, took walks on the beach and spent our evenings at the pool.

Matt and I were even able to make a trip to Savannah one night to have dinner with some great friends, the Cowans. It was so nice to spend the evening with them in their lovely home and catch up.

Our trip wasn't completely uneventful. Matt ended up in the urgent care center after an unfortunate crabbing accident for a tetanus shot and antibiotics. He decided to try a different spot and instead of crabbing off the pier he tried to crab under the causeway off the rocks. The rocks were not so kind to him when he lost his balance, he ended up with several very deep cuts.

Ella Catherine jumping off the side at the pool

Carter jumping off the side at the pool

Family beach pictureElla Catherine by the waterCarter hanging out on the pier crabbing and Ella Catherine anxiously waiting to be able to pull up the crab netThere is that sly grin...and yes, he is getting curls.

Watching the hermit crab make its way back into the ocean off the pier

Daddy and daughter crabbing

Matt showing the kids how to bait the nets

Carter pointing to the shrimp boats

Matt after his urgent care visit. From now on we will stick to the pier for crabbing. :)

Matt helping Ella Catherine build a sandcastle

Carter and I playing in the waves

Getting more wet sand for her sandcastle

More fun in the sandCarter playing in the sand and surf

Another Family picture

Ella Catherine climbing the old oak tree

Carter and Ella Catherine on the rocks

Ella Catherine and daddy looking for seashell

School Pictures 2011

2011-06-30T20:35:00.008-05:00

The Explorers

Carter's Toddler Class From Left to Right, Top row: Ms Pam, Kelly, Maddox, Carter, Isaac, Bryce, Ms. Kennithia Bottom row: Sloane, Madelyn, Ester and Lucas

Carter has grown so much this year both physically and developmentally. He is talking in sentences, learning his alphabet, riding a bike with training wheels, throwing and catching a ball, drinking out of a cup, and using utensils. He brings his dishes to the kitchen after meals and cleans his mat with a clorox wipe. Since dental hygeine week at school he has been obsessed with brushing his teeth. Now if we can just get that same enthusiasm for potty training we will be ecstatic. :)

Pre-K 3: The Leaping Frogs
Ella Catherine's class from Left to Right, Top Row: Ainsley, Daphne, Jason, Lucy, Ms. Cindy, Martin, Lily, Taylor D, Shaw, Ms. Brittney. Bottom Row: Ms. Sabrina, Yvonne, Ella Catherine, Jessica, Ilan, Manus, Bryce, Ivy

Ella Catherine has also grown a lot this year. She can write all the letters of the alphabet, she can count to 100, she knows the sounds of all the letters, She can write her numbers up to 10, she knows her left from her right, she can dress herself completely, and she continues to have an uncanny ability to hear a song once or twice and know all the lyrics. She also continues to be obsessed with brushing her teeth. She also clears her dishes, cleans her mat and helps unload the diahwasher.
She just moved up to the pre-K 4 classroom, "The Super Stars" and is very excited to be the big kid at her school. Full curriculum doesn't start until the Fall but she is already learning from the older kids about to leave for kindergarden and is very excited about learning to read.

20th class reunion/ fun with nana and pop

2011-06-10T12:28:00.009-05:00

Amy and I. Loved catching up with her and laughing about college memories. She is still one in a million.

Amy and Jason, great friends and the only 2 from our class who dated in highschool who ended up married. Amy and I have known each other since kindergarden and took dance together from first grade until we graduated high school. Lots of wonderful memories with this amazing lady.

Marla, myself and Rita. I have several pictures just like this only 20 years younger. I realized I didn't take many pictures. Guess I was too busy running my mouth. :)

Love that smile

"E" pushing carter. Love watching them play and laugh together, makes my heart smile.

About to slide

Hiding out.

Has to do what big sister does. So a sliding he will go.

Nana pushing Ella Catherine

monkey bars

"who me?" Cutie even if you are on backwards

Jumping with daddy on the trampoline

Riding her bike

Carter playing with his new remote control train Aunt Kelly and Cousin Cori gave him for his birthday

My 20th high school reunion was this past weekend. So, we loaded up the kids and headed to Georgia. It was great to see old friends, chat and laugh about old times and to catch up on what was going on now in their lives. I love picking up with old friends like you have never been apart. I am so glad that I decided to go. I got an added bonus as well. My best friend from college, Amy, was also there. She married one of my dearest childhood friends. He came out to visit me at Baylor. They met, fell in love and the rest is history. So, it isn't ofyen you go to your highschool reunion and get to spend time with a bestie from college as well. LOVED every minute. Made me realize how lucky I am to have such amazing friends and I have vowed to be better about keeping in touch.

As you can see while we were at the reunion, Nana, Pop, and Becky kept the kids entertained with trips to the park, riding bikes, coloring/arts and crafts, playing games etc.

Memorial Day weekend

2011-06-02T12:27:00.010-05:00

Hanging out with Aunt Katie

Fishing with Daddy

Let the fish catching begin

Cousin Amy skiing: Ella Catherine was very impressed that she didn't fall

Carter enjoying the view from Grandpa's big boat

Uncle Michael Skiing

Family Pic on the front of Grandpa's boat

No better place to spend Memorial Day than on the lake! So, we headed to Pickwick for the weekend to spend the holiday with Grams, Grandpa, Uncle Christopher and Uncle Michael. We were very excited that Aunt Katie and Cousin Amy came to play for the day on Saturday. The lake was still a little cold but somehow Aunt Katie was able to talk Ella Catherine into getting in the water with her which isn’t an easy task. The water was also a little rough with all the traffic but it didn’t stop Aunt Katie, Matt, Cousin Amy and Uncle Michael from skiing. In addition to skiing and boat rides, the Lynch clan also enjoyed some fishing. Ella Catherine has liked fishing from the get go. So, much so that both daddy and grandpa bought her a fishing pole last year. She wore it out this weekend. She caught a total of 11 fish (5 of which were solely on her own). She had a ball. Carter’s attention span hasn’t quite reached the level it needs to be for fishing. He would fish for a little and then tell grandpa he wanted to go on the boat. So, Grandpa would take him on the boat and let him crawl around for a while. A weekend at the lake was just what the doctor ordered. :)

chuga chuga choo choo carter is 2

2011-05-22T21:18:00.002-05:00

How can he already be 2? We no longer have a baby, he is definitely a toddler and on his way fast to becoming a little boy. He is such a little joy and a little monster all at the same time! He has this sly little grin that makes it very difficult for me to stay strong and discipline him…But I do most of the time. :)
Some fun things about Carter at this age. He is in LOVE with Elway our yellow lab. Elway now sleeps in his room and we have found him more than once asleep on the floor with his head using Elway’s body as a pillow. He is talking much more and even in sentences. He tries to do everything his big sister does. He likes to read, color, work puzzles and play with cars/trucks/trains but most of all he LOVES to wrestle. He wrestles his friends at school, Ella Catherine, Matt, poor Elway and on occasion even momma. He would rather be outside than inside. He is an eater. He is still not a fan of a lot of veggies but we are working on them. He drinks from a regular cup and loves to say “hey (insert name) watch this” right before he takes a drink. Right now he is using both hands so we can’t tell if he will be a righty or a lefty. He is a fish. He scares his momma because he has very little fear of the water. He calls Ella Catherine "E" for sissy. (We hope this sticks because we think it is too cute!)
At his yearly checkup he weighed 30lbs 15oz and was almost 42inches tall. He continues to be on the big side for his age and as always his head circumference is >95%...lots of brains in that head. :)
To celebrate his big day, he had a party at school with his friends on Friday and then Saturday all the grandparents came over for a family celebration. He had a great time and we couldn’t be happier to be celebrating our little miracle.

chuga chuga choo choo carter is 2. Door sign for his party. Got the cute idea from my friend Emily.

Pop, Ella Catherine and Carter

Birthday Boy with Nana

Blowing bubbles with mimi

One of my favorite parts of the kid's birthdays is baking and decorating their cakes.

Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday dear Carter, Happy Birthday to you!

Big sister, Aka "E", helping him blow out his candles and showing him how it is done.

LOVE that grin!

Reading his new Curious George book

Cleaning up with his new vacuum cleaner. The boy loves to push the swifter around and so mimi thought he might like his own vacuum.

Matt's Birthday Part 2/ The Kentucky Derby

2011-05-10T21:19:00.000-05:00

May 7, 2011 was Brian's birthday. When we woke that morning, we celebrated with a fabulous brunch. Jennifer and Jeff went all out! We enjoyed mimosas and an assortment of wonderful food. Then it was time to get ready for the big day ahead. After we all got dressed in our derby attire we all enjoyed cocktails (mint Julips and Fleur de Lis) while we had our pre-derby photos taken. I think the drinks plus the anticipation of the day ahead made us smile that much more and made for some really great pictures. Then it was off to the derby. Pictures do not do the experience justice. It was an amazing day. We had so much fun seeing all the beautiful horses and betting on all the races. We didn't make a lot of money but we did come out a little ahead. :)We are so happy and lucky to have experienced it with family and great friends. The horses coming around the first turn The grand stand view from our box
Church hill Downs
Tickets in hand
Matt with his winnings from the Derby, put this with our winnings from the previous races and we didn't do bad at all!
The husbands in their searsucker suits! (Jeff, Brian and Matt)
Brian and Lori's pre-derby picture
our pre-derby picture

Matt's Birthday Part 1: Maker's Mark

2011-05-06T16:12:00.011-05:00

Last year at my best friend Jen's wedding in Louisville, Kentucky we began talking about the possibility of coming back for the Kentucky Derby in 2011. Often those ideas fade as the year goes on but NOT this one. When Jen told me that Derby weekend was the weekend of May 6th, 7th and 8th, I was super excited! Matt's birthday is May 6th and my brother's is May 7th. Brian has always wanted to go to the derby. So, when Jen called and said she was going to order tickets and asked if we wanted to go, I jumped at the chance. What a great bday gift for the hubby and well I had to get two tickets as I didn't want him to go a lone. :) We extended the invite to Brian and Lori and they too jumped at the chance. We have been so excited all year for this weekend and it didn't disappoint.
Friday was Matt's Bday and the group decided that a trip to the Maker's Mark distillery was in order. It is located in the beautiful Ketucky country side. It is amazing to me that this one distillery supplies all the maker's mark for the entire world. Blows my mind. It was a fascinating tour. We happened to luck up and they were also bottling that day. I felt like I stepped into an episode of Lavergne and Shhirley. :) After the tour, we all got a sample of Maker's mark and the newer Maker's 46 (named so because it took 46 tries to get the bourbon the flavor they wanted)plus a yummy bourbon ball. Then we all had the opportunity to dip our own bottle of Maker's mark and sign up to be an Ambassador. We gladly signed up for this opportunity. Our names go on a barrel and when it is ready in 2-5years we will get a certificate in the mail inviting us to come and taste test our barrel dated 5/6/2011. We have the opportunity to pour our own bottles, they will have special labels with our names on them and then we get to dip them. Another fun trip to look forward too!
As you can see from the pictures below we had a great time.

Waiting to go into the distillery

Time Capsule....would love to know what is inside.

Brian, Lori, Matt and Amy, and Jen(present but not in photo as she was the photographer)

Where the Magic Begins

The woman found out it was Matt's bday and gave him a pull from today's batch 5-6-11.

Day 1 Maker's Bourbon....Jen and Matt ready to taste

Day 3 Maker's Bourbon.....Brian and Lori ready to taste

The bottling room

Filling the bottles

Labeling the bottles

Dipping the bottles... Each dipper is allowed to dip a bottle all the way (called a slam dunk) twice an hour. These bottles are rare and worth some $$ so if you see one on the shelf of your local liquor store, buy it!

Matt loving the production line

Brian with the production line and a SLAM DUNK bottle

Birthday boys about to taste

Brian dipping his bottle

Lori dipping her bottle

Matt dipping his bottle

Me and the birthday boy about to head out for a very nice dinner with Jen, Jeff, Brian and Lori.

Easter 2011

2011-04-24T13:44:00.000-05:00

Easter weekend was a very busy weekend. Nana and Pop came in town to help us design our yard/flower beds. We also had an easter egg hunt, Ella Catherine had a birthday party to attend and we had Easter to celebrate.

It was so busy that I forgot to take before and after pictures of the flower beds but believe me when I say that they look 100% better. I do not have a flare for yard design but thankfully my mother does and Matt and I can follow a plan. It is still a work in progress but I am having much more fun now with a visual of what it will eventually become.

Our church's Easter egg hunt was rained out the weekend before Easter but the grade school up the road was having a hunt of Saturday and invited us to come. So, we took the kids. This was Carter's first Easter egg hunt. He was all ready to go before they gave the ok but once it was go time he was shell shocked. He stood there in awe of the rst of the kids running around picking up eggs. Ella Catherine being the sweet big sister that she is kept running over and putting eggs in his basket. She didn't get near the amount she could have because she was so concerned about him. So Sweet! Finally after much coaxing he started picking up eggs. Of course, he wanted to open them immediately. The Hunt also had face painting and the opportunity to get your picture taken with the Easter bunny. The kids had a ball. Unfortunately it was cutt short because we had to get Ella Catherine to her friend's birthday party.

Easter morning we got dressed up in our finest and headed to church to praise the Lord. After mass, mom and I were treated to breakfast cooked by the men. It was fabulous! Once breakfast was over it was time for the kids to hunt for their baskets. That tricky rabbit, you never know where he is going to hide your goodies. After scouring the house, they headed outside. The rest of the day we finished up planting, did some relaxing and just enjoyed the day. Oh and we all ate WAY TOO much candy. :)
Carter and Ella Catherine with the Easter Bunny Ella Catherine getting her face painted
The cutest bunny in town! Let the hunting begin Carter Finally getting into the action Trying to open an egg
Easter morning sharing an egg full of jelly beans
Running and looking for her basket
Found it!
Carter finding his basketReady to dive in and see what the bunny brought

Showered with love

2011-04-12T12:54:00.002-05:00

Elway misses Baylor but is loving the extra love from everyone especially from Ella Catherine and Carter

swim lessons

2011-04-09T12:49:00.001-05:00

Ella Catherine started swim lessons today. She has been asking for weeks about them and was so excited to get started. As an added surprise, one of her old classmates was in her swim class. It is going to be a fun 6 weeks.

Big Boy Bed

2011-03-27T12:45:00.001-05:00

Carter has been asking to sleep in his big boy bed for about two weeks now. We let him fall asleep in his big boy bed but then transfer him to the crib once he is asleep. Well, Matt finally talked me into saying goodbye to the crib forever. Taking down the crib was a little rough on mom (no more babies) but it is hard to be sad when he is so excited about sleeping in the big bed.

Saying Goodbye

2011-03-12T22:00:00.007-06:00

Today was a very sad day for the Lynch family. We had to say goodbye to Baylor. I can remember so well her birth day. She was one of the puppies from my parent's lab Dixie. Dixie was a black lab and the father was a yellow lab. I had told my parents that if there was a yellow female I wanted it. She gave birth to 4 yellow males, 4 black females, 1 black male and 1 yellow female. It was destiny!!! She was destined to be mine, my golden baylor girl! She was a wonderful dog. She is extremely missed. I found the below poem on the internet and thought it was perfect.

If it should be...

If it should be that I grow frail and weak,

and pain should keep me from my sleep,

then you must do what must be done,

for we know this last battle can't be won.

You will be sad, I understand,

but don't let grief then stay your hand,

for this day, more than the rest,

your love and friendship must stand the test.

We've had so many happy years,

what is to come can hold no fears,

Would you want me to suffer? So,

when the time comes, please let me go.

Take me where my needs they'll tend,

only stay with me until the end,

and hold me firm and speak to me,

until my eyes no longer see.

It is a kindness that you do to me,

although my tail it's last has waved,

from pain and suffering I have been saved.

Do not grieve, it should be you,

who must decide this thing to do.

We've been so close, we two these years,

Don't let your heart hold any fears.

--Anonymous

We planted a dogwood tree in our yard today in her memory. She is forever in our hearts.

Rest in peace my sweet golden baylor girl 10/04/2000-3/12/2011

Happy 4th Birthday Ella Catherine

2011-03-05T19:14:00.001-06:00

4 years ago today Matt and I were thrilled to hear that God had blessed us with a baby girl. We had all the emotions of first time parents: overwhelming love, extreme excitement, and complete awe that we had created this little life. She was absolutely PERFECT!

I still can't believe that she is MINE! I feel like I mess up 1000 times a day. Moments where I know that what I have said/done or haven't done/said has scarred her for life. Then come the moments of complete grace where she wraps her little arms around me and tells me she loves me or snuggles close, holds my hand and asks me to read her a book. Those moments I cherish and try to hold onto. It is so hard for me to believe that she is 4 years old. Where has the time gone?

Adjectives we would use to describe her are: kind, loving, tender hearted, smart, energetic, talented and nurturing. She has a laugh that is contagious and a smile that can melt even the iciest of hearts. She is so excited about life that she makes me excited about life.

She is a GREAT big sister. She is always trying to make sure Carter is taken care of and shares her things (toys, food, drinks etc) 95% of the time( sometimes a girls just has to have her own things). She is the first up most mornings but when she isn't she comes and lets us know that Carter is up and is asking for us, then she goes back to his room to keep him company until we get there.

She completely amazes us with how she can process information. She is very inquisitive and loves to learn. She can write her own name and all her letters. She is learning Spanish and can count to ten, say all her colors, name the days of the week, say please, thank you and is currently learning some foods.

She is such an amazing little girl and Matt and I are so lucky to be her parents. She teaches us so much and makes us better people.

Her Birthday weekend started off with a celebration at school. It just so happened to be Pajama Day again this year. She was even more excited about pajama day than last year.

Excited and Surprised to see that Nana came with momma

Passing out the Rice Crispie treats she helped me make for her party

Letting her friends pick the treat they want.

Today we had a party at the house for family and friends. It was a play doh party. The weather did not cooperate and it was rainy and gloomy outside, but inside was anything but gloomy. The kids had a ball! Not very much play doh playing but there was dress up, hide n go seek, dolls, tools, etc... Basically good ol fashioned playing. Ella Catherine had a great day and Carter was in hog heaven. He was so excited to be playing with the big kids.

Tables all ready for some play doh fun.

Listening to some music, playing a little play doh.

Chatting a little and playing a little

The cake!!! Made by yours truly.

Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday Ella Catherine, Happy Birthday to you!
Make a wish!

We decided to try and make the gift opening fun for all the guests as well as Ella Catherine. So, we did a take off on musical chairs. We had all the kids stand around a table with their hands behind their backs and we put a spoon in the middle of the table. When the music went off the first person to grab the spoon got to go get their gift and give/help Ella Catherine open it. It was a big hit and so much fun!! The kids and parents both had a great time with this game.

Her friend Manus was the first one to grab the spoon

Opening her gift

The day wouldn't be complete without our annual Father/Daughter birthday picture! Love this!

Happy Birthday Ella Catherine! Your dad and I love you so very much and are so very proud of you! You make everyday brighter.

First Trip to the Dentist

2011-02-24T19:52:00.004-06:00

Waiting her turn

Watching Super Why on the TV above the dental chair. Now this was REALLY cool and something that we never had growing up....diversion!

Getting her teeth cleaned by Jennifer our hygeinist

Picking out her PRIZE for being such a Big Girl.

And the winner is a Yellow ring. (i was shocked and amazed as was Jennifer at how quickly she picked out her Prize)

My Uncle Jimmy would have been so proud of Ella Catherine. Not only was she a star patient but she is now completely obsessed with oral hygeine! Future Dentist? Only time will tell.

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T06:45:00.000-06:00

Happy Valentine's Day from the Lynch's

Beauty Parlor

2011-02-13T20:03:00.005-06:00

Matt and I were cleaning, cooking and getting the house in order because we were having some friends over for game night. We were both very focused on our tasks at hand. When all of a sudden we realized that the house was TOO QUIET. Those of you who have children know that when the kids are home and the house becomes silent then you have to worry. So, we went looking for them. And this is what we found.....
Ella Catherine was playing beauty parlor with Carter. She used the new conditioner I had bought her at the store to give Carter a mohawk! Love it!

Daddy's weekend/Mommy's weekend

2011-02-07T19:34:00.000-06:00

I went to Louisville, KY to visit my best friend, Jennifer and Matt had a daddy weekend with the kids. He and the kids decided to have a camp out in our bedroom. Matt blew up their air mattress' and then tucked them into their sleping bags. The first night Carter didn't quite get the concept. He would get out of his sleeping bag and go jump on Ella Catherine's bed just as she was drifting off to sleep. So, he ended up back in his crib. :) But night 2 he came around and stayed all night with Ella Catherine and daddy. Each in their own sleeping bags. Ella Catherine LOVES it and has decided she wants to sleep in her sleeping bag all the time.

They had a great weekend full of playing with play dough, watching a few movies, coloring, rough playing with daddy and ice cream treats!

Mommy had a great time too! Jen and I had a girls day on Saturday full of shopping, lunching and a mani/pedi. It was divine!!! Then Jen and her husband Jeff took we to a wonderful restaurant downtown and to the Improv. The food was DELICIOUS, the comedians were HILARIOUS and the company was AWESOME!! I had such a great time.

Enjoying Life

2011-01-30T19:24:00.008-06:00

The day started like most Saturdays, eating raisins and drinking milk all while snuggled under their blankets watching Super Why

But then it turned out to be such a beautiful morning that we decided to go visit an old friend, the park

We are truly blessed!

Happy New Year- 2011 off to the best start!

2011-01-08T09:08:00.003-06:00

Our 2011 is off to the best possible start. Carter had his annual Cardiology checkup on 1-4-11 and everything was great! Dr. Doyle still calls him a miracle and is still perplexed about what caused all his heart troubles a little over 19months ago. While perplexed we are all very happy and very thankful that all the prayers he received helped heal him. He is a strong little boy both in body and in spirit. Some adjectives we think describe him are joyful, loving, persistent, tempermental and adventerous. We are looking forward to see all that 2011 has in store for the Lynch Family.

For tha actual New Year we headed to Pickwick to see Grandpa, Grams, Uncle Christopher and Uncle Michael. We had a wonderful time with family and friends. We did a little art.

We played a little Guitar Hero

We baked some cookies

And we had a Wii dance Party

We also exchanged Matt's truck with uncle Christopher's truck. Uncle Christopher is taking ours back to school to get some things fixed. We are very excited to have a future mechanic in the family. :)

Christmas 2010

2010-12-30T19:22:00.011-06:00

Christmas was all I had hoped for and much more! Early in the week the weatherman started talking about the possibility of snow Christmas Eve night and Christmas Day. I tried not to get my hopes up too much as I didn’t want to get disappointed, but I REALLY wanted a white Christmas. Growing up in middle Georgia provided many wonderful things but a white Christmas wasn’t one of them. So, I was ecstatic when I woke up to a winter wonderland in our backyard. Matt put it best when he said we were having a Norman Rockwell Christmas. It was fabulous!

Ella Catherine really got into all the Christmas activities this year. She was sooo excited for Christmas morning. Carter just fed off of Ella Catherine’s excitement. He is still too young to really understand. However, he loves his sister and is happy when she is happy.

Carter was the first to wake up. Before I could get to him, he had woken Ella Catherine up. She usually can sleep through his cries but I think she was too excited about Santa to sleep. It was a bit early, 5:15am to be exact, so I took them back to our room and we laid in bed and watched a Christmas movie. Growing up we had a rule that we couldn’t wake up our parents or grandparents until 6am. As a kid that rule used to kill me, as a grown-up I can better appreciate the rule. So, I have enforced that rule in our house. Lucky for us Ella Catherine was into the Christmas movie and by the time it was over it was almost 6:45am. I loved having that snuggle time with all of us in the bed. As to how the rest of the morning went, I will let the pictures speak for themselves.

Santa was here! (the Before picture)
White Christmas!!!

Once she was given the green light to open gifts, Ella Catherine jumped right in without hesitation

CANDYLAND!!! A new tutu

Carter had no problems finding the power button on the four wheeler but we do need to work on steering. :) Carter in his new bean bag chair opening gifts

He finally started getting the hang of opening gifts

SO EXCITED he got some MEGA blocks.

The After picture
Seeing these two playing in the jeep together made my heart smile and then I got a flash of these two as teenagers driving around together and it gave me a heart attack.

Matt putting together the baby crib that mimi sent

The finished product

Grams and Grandpa came to visit the day after Christmas. Matt decided to shovel off our steep driveway and so the kids and I decided to go play in the snow.

Matt shoveling snow
Ella Catherine decided to get her play shovel and help out

Of course Carter couldn't be left out and so he grabbed our other shovel and tried to helpJust a boy and his dog

Grams and Grandpa gave Ella Catherine a princess play tent

and of course Carter couldn't be left out. Playing our new favorite game, Candyland with Grams and Grandpa

Christmas Eve Traditions

2010-12-25T17:20:00.007-06:00

In preparation for Jolly ole St.Nick, AKA Santa, we box up all of the toys we no longer play with and have outgrown. We donate them for the little boys and girls that don't have so many toys. We started this last year with Ella Catherine and she is so tender hearted and generous. She always gives away much more than I expect. Carter joined in this year as well. However, I'm not so sure he fully grasped what was happening. I think he just thought it was a fun game to put the toys in the totes. I know he won't miss a thing though!

Christmas Eve Mass.

The reading of "Twas the night before Christmas"

Cookies for Santa and Carrots for the reindeer
Don't forget the milk!

Pre-Christmas Celebration

2010-12-21T16:51:00.009-06:00

Nana and Pop came to town this weekend to celebrate Christmas. The kids were so excited to see them when we got home from school Friday night.

Ella Catherie immediately asked Pop to read her a book.

After the kids went to bed we had some Pre-Christmas Eve training as we had to put together the wagon that Nana and Pop had bought for Carter. They would have put it together before coming but they were transporting the rest of the families gifts plus the deer meat from Matt's Thanksgiving deer. So, the box was easier to transport.

Nana and I started the process but were happy that Pop and Matt joined us when they did as we discovered that we had put some washers and bolts on incorrectly. Wouldn't have been near as fun the next morning had it fallen apart the first time he climbed in. Presents under the tree just waiting for two little kids to wake up. :)

This picture really doesn't do justice to how excited he was about the wagon. We rode them all around the house all weekend on the wagon. We even made it into a night night train and dropped each of them off at their rooms for bedtime.

getting ready for the first double wagon rideTHey took turns pulling each other too. Of course they coldn't be bothered to stop for breakfast. Ella Catherine is actually eating her banana as she pulls Carter.Carter even sat in the wagon to open the rest of his presents. He was very excited about his wooden train ornament in this picture. As he opened it he said "WOW".A shot of everyone opening gifts. Ella Catherine was opoening her Dora Christmas Ornament.
Nana surprised Ella Catherine with tickets to go see the "Rockettes". This is a picture of the three of us before we left for the show. I wish I had pictures of her during the show to show you but they didn't allow cameras. She was absolutely mesmerized and LOVED it! Carter wasn't left out though. He enjoyed some one on one Pop time. They read books, played ball and of course took some rides in the wagon. We had a fantastic weekend and of course it ended too soon.

A Christmas Barn

2010-12-12T17:02:00.005-06:00

We were at Tractor Supply the other day and saw the gingerbread Barn and new we had to have it. It couldn't have been more perfect considering we moved out to the country this year. It was cold and rainy Saturday and cold, windy and snowy today. So we thought what a better time than this weekend to make our Gingerbread Barn.Matt and Ella Catherine, Architects at work.

Holding the wall straight for daddy

The finished product! A VERY cute Christmas Barn.

SNOW FUN 2010

2010-12-12T14:59:00.002-06:00

Carter all bundled up and NOT so sure about the snow. Ella Catherine trying to pick a spot for a snowman

Me and Ella Catherine building her tiny snowman
Ela Catherine and her finsihed tiny, tiny snowman (with carrot nose and all!)

Gobble Gobble til you Wobble!

2010-12-01T13:49:00.010-06:00

We loaded up the 2 cars with 3 adults (Amy, Matt and Christopher), 2 kids (Ella Catherine and Carter) and 2 dogs(Baylor and Elway) and headed to Georgia for Thanksgiving. This annual trip is all about 2 things: 1 having a wonderful Thanksgiving meal with the family and being ever so grateful for all our blessings and 2 hunting! Matt was REALLY looking forward to this years trip. He was excited to bring Christopher along for some hunting. He was super excited to have somewhere to hunt, (He still hasn't found a hunting spot in Nashville) and he was glad for some guy time. The hunting was fairly successful this year with multiple people getting a deer. The fishing was outstanding..my uncles tore up the pond. My dad and Matt even had a little time to shoot some dove so that Elway and Sadie could practice their live retrieves. Amidst all the hunting their was also A LOT of football watching by both the males and the females. We do Love our football! I was able to get out and see some great friends for an adult eveing and also able to sneak in some time to get started on my Christmas shopping. The week went by very fast! We came home just in time for Santa to deliver our Christmas Elf, Jess.

Turkey Cupcakes
Festive centerpeice for the table
One turkey down

Another turkey down.

One Deer down. Matt's big doe for the weekend.

kisses for daddymaking Christmas ornamentsPlaying in Nana's sink

Playing on Nana's kitchen counter

Package from SantaThe Arrival of Jess, our Elf from SantaBetter not pout, Better not shout, better not cry I am telling you why.... Santa Claus is coming to town...AND JESS IS WATCHING!!

Could it be?

2010-11-22T14:24:00.002-06:00

Carter asked twice over the weekend to sit on the potty. The first time he actually pottied! I know it is just a coincidence but it is an exciting step non the less. I guess havig an older sibling helps relieve any anxiety about the potty. While I don't think he is ready for potty training, it is definitely not to early to enjoy sitting on the potty. :)

Halloween 2010

2010-11-17T20:19:00.008-06:00

I love Halloween!!!! I’m not sure if I loved it this much as a child. What I do know is I fell in love with the holiday again working at St. Jude. Seeing how excited all the kids got when the hospital was decorated from head to toe just made my day. Now that I have kids it has grown even more. I can’t believe that this is Ella Catherine’s 4th time dressing up. I take full responsibility for her first 3 costumes. She didn’t really understand what was going on those first two years and last year by the time she realized she was already knocking on doors getting candy. By that time she could have been wearing a paper bag and she wouldn’t have cared a bit as long as the candy kept rolling in. This year was different. This year she picked out her own costume…kind of. Matt and I had a princess dress made for her for her birthday. She LOVES the dress and wears it anytime she can. So when we asked her what she wanted to be for Halloween it was not too surprising that she wanted to be a princess and wear her “big sparkle dress” as she calls it. Carter is a different story. I was happily still able to pick out his costume. I didn’t think I would be able to find anything as cute as his costume last year, but I was wrong!!! When I saw the fly fisherman costume that was all she wrote. It was perfect! I wasn’t too concerned about him wearing it because he is usually so easy going. Well he wasn’t so easy going with the costume on Friday evening as we were getting dressed to meet the Sams for at the ghouls at Grassmere (Nashville Zoo). He was NOT happy about the boots. I had to get him dressed in stages. I finally realized that he was just really hungry and as I have stated before he becomes a different kid when he is hungry. By the time Matt got home from work he was ok with the costume and was well fed and ready to go!

We didn’t get to the ZOO as early as we would have liked and so we didn’t get to visit with the Sams for too long before the Sams boys were ready to head to the house. They had already done the trick or treat trail so we played some in the play area before they left. Our little princess however, was not about to leave without trick or treating. So, we had fun taking her around the path and seeing all the costumes. The little fly fisherman was a trouper and watched without so much as a peep from his stroller.

Sunday was the official trick or treat night. We got the kids dressed up again, no complaints this time. The plan was to go visit a few neighbors and then head back to the house to hand out candy. We set out on foot down the hill and went to about 8 houses when Matt realized that this was going to be a longer trick or treating trip and decided to go get the truck. For those of you who have seen our neighborhood you completely understand the truck, for those of you who have yet to visit we would love to have you! Just know that our neighborhood is EXTREMELY hilly. No guilt in eating trick or treat candy as you definitely burn it off walking from house to house. Even driving, the driveways and the front steps are a workout. Anyway, our little cul de sac wasn’t very busy and I was somewhat disappointed as I knew we had moved to a neighborhood filled with kids. Well, when we drove around the corner to the main drive and there were people everywhere. Several people had hayrides taking the kids trick or treating, houses were decorated inside and out and even the parents were dressed up. I forsee a hayride next year. :) Carter stayed in the truck with Matt and Ella Catherine and I took off running from house to house. It was soooo much fun. It is hard to say who had more fun.

When Matt went back to get the truck he set our candy out on the front porch for the kids to grab themselves. I was fully expecting the candy to be all gone when we got home, but was surprised to find a little still left. Someone did move the container from the top of the steps to the bottom though. I’m telling you the stairs are a killer. I honestly think Ella Catherine had as much fun if not more handing out candy as she did trick or treating. She sat in the rocker on the front porch and waited patiently for someone to come. While they waited, she and Carter played trick or treating. She would give him a piece of candy and he would run inside and go put it in his pumpkin. It was precious!
I thought I’d take a trip down memory lane and post pictures of past costumes as well. Enjoy!

2007: Ella Catherine 7 months old- a pink octopus

2008: Ella Catherine 1 year old- Candy corn

2009: Ella Catherine 2years old- a Denver Broncos Cheerleader

2010- Ella Catherine 3 years old- a beautiful Princess2009: Carter 5 months old- sock monkey
2010: Carter 1 year old-fly fisherman

PJ Party

2010-11-01T20:48:00.000-05:00

To celebrate Halloween the kids had Pajama day at school. I personally can not think of a better way to start off the weekend. Luckily I was able to leave work a little early and attend their afternoon PJ Halloween party.Excited about PJ Party day

Decked out in his Halloween Pjs ready for school

His classmates at the table for snacks

One of the parents brought cheetos. This was his first taste of cheetos and lets just say he is a fan. I had to stop him from stealing his friends cheetos.

Carter and I left his party early to attend some of Ella Catherine's party. This is her table finishing up their snacks.

After they finished snacks and cleaned up their places they all went to their designated color on the color rug. They had been learning a pumpkin song for 2 weeks that included hand gestures and props.Here they are singing the song. It was so cute and they were all so excited that they sang it twice.

I made these cute owl cookies for both of the kids to take for their parties. Ella Catherine's class loved them. Carter's friends weren't sure what to do with them. I don't think they realized they were cookies. They all kept picking them up off their plates and saying owl and whoooing. It was precious.

Carving Pumpkins

2010-10-24T20:17:00.001-05:00

It was a beautiful, warm October day. With Halloween fast approaching Matt decided it was time to carve the pumpkins. So as not to make a mess inside and create an adventure for the kids he took them in the woods behind our house to get all the ooey, gooey stuff out. The kids thought it was great. Neither was too sure of the goo at first but finally dove in and had fun.
As I am typing this I realized that we never got a picture of the final product, so I will remedy that and post an additional picture soon....keep an eye out! :)

Matt and Ella Catherine in the woodsLet the good times start! Carving the BIG Pumpkin first
Carter getting his hands a little gooey

Both kids cleaning out the pumpkins.

Toto I don't think we are in Nashville anymore

2010-10-17T12:12:00.001-05:00

Matt's cousin, Stephanie, got married this weekend in Kansas City. It was an event we wouldn't miss. However, I must admit I was a little anxiety ridden about taking both kids on an airplane. I am not afraid of flying but I was afraid of the potential melt downs that could occur mid air with no where to exit. My fears were completely unfounded. Our kids were ANGELS!!! I had some friends offer suggestions for making air travel go smoothly and they worked like a charm! We definitely got the "please don't sit by me" stares as we boarded the plane, but at the end of both our flights we received compliments on how well behaved our children were from those sitting around us. Matt and I are so proud of them!!!

The weekend went by very fast but it was fabulous! Friday we got into town just in time to meet up with Aunt Katie, Uncle Shannon and Mimi at Aunt Syd and Uncle D's house for lunch. Erica and Jonathon were there as well. We all had some time to visit before having to get ready for the rehearsal dinner. Dinner was downtown in a restaurant on the third floor of a building overlooking the city. It was beautiful. We didn't get to stay too long before it was time to take two sleeping kiddos home to bed. The rehearsal started at their bedtime but they were GREAT! We brought their Pjs to the party and changed them before getting into the car. Poor Carter fell asleep in the middle of the party he was so pooped and Ella Catherine wasn't far behind. Saturday we were able to sleep in (ha, ha). We were able to lounge about and let the kids run around. We met up at Aunt Syd and Uncle D's house again for another amazing lunch and then we took the kids to the Deana Rose petting zoo. We were able to let them run around and play a bit before having to head to the hotel to get ready for the wedding. They loved the petting zoo but neither of them was much into the actual petting. They liked to feed from a distance or let Matt and I feed them :)

The wedding was absolutely beautiful! She was a stunning bride. The priest gave a wonderful homily, one of the best I have ever heard at a wedding. Stephanie, Aunt Carolee and Uncle Doc thought of everything for this wedding. They rented out an extra hotel room and hired a babysitter. The kids had their very own PJ party with dinner and movies while the adults were at the reception. Carter passed out cold on the bed about 30 minutes after we dropped him off, poor guy again it was past his bedtime. He slept through the entire party. The rest of the kids built forts and watched movies. Ella Catherine was still wide awake when we picked her up. She had a blast! The adults also had a blast at the reception. All in all a wonderful weekend celebrating with family.

Pumpkin Patch

2010-10-10T12:07:00.005-05:00

As we were riding around doing errands the other day Matt and I noticed a sign for a pumpkin patch. This weekend Matt went on a guys golfing weekend and so Sunday afternoon I thought I'd take the kids to the pumpkin patch and let them pick out some pumpkins. I had NO idea how big this patch was nor how much it had to offer. I was very thankful that I had put the stroller in the car for carrying the pumpkins because we had to park so far from the actual festivities that I used it to carry Carter as well. Needless to say, the kids had a blast and so did I. They had all kinds of fun activities for the kids. They had troughs full of animal feed for the children to play with, arts in crafts areas where they could make sand art, a playground, a maze, hayrides, a pumkin train for the kids, a section where they could pretend to be a farmer for the day, a petting zoo, face painting and of course a field with pumpkins. I only wish that Matt had been there too. Maybe we will make a second trip. :)

Playing in the feed troughs

Making sand art
Riding on his John Deere

Playing on the playground

Milking a cowWaiting patiently to have her face painted drum roll please...she asked for a pumpkin flower
Picking out his pumpkin
Until he saw these and realized that his was too small

Then he decided on the bigger one! :)

Ella Catherine with her pumpkin choice

5 years

2010-10-05T19:20:00.001-05:00

Matt and I celebrated our 5 year wedding anniversary on 10/1/10. In 5 years we have moved 4 times, had two wonderful children and both have changed jobs. A busy but wonderful 5 years! God has blessed us so much.

Grandpa and Grams took the kids for the weekend. We met Grandpa Friday morning and he took the kids to Pickwick lake where they spent the weekend with Grams, Grandpa, Uncle Christopher and Uncle Michael. They went to a high school football game on Friday night. Carter was so enthralled with the football game that he didn't move a muscle the whole time. Perhaps he is a future football player. Ella Catherine was enthralled with the cheerleaders and promptly showed us her moves when she got home. The rest of the weekend they enjoyed the laking life with boat rides and good friends.

As for Matt and I, we dropped them off and headed back to Nashville. We wanted to visit some of the Nashville tourist attractions we had yet to see. First, we had lunch at The Whiskey Kitchen and it was delicious! Next we went to the Country Music Hall of Fame. It is a fascinating place. I honestly thought that MTV's pimp my ride was the first to embellish an automobile, but that is so not the case. Webb Peirce and Elvis were way a head of them! Webb Pierce had guns mounted on his car. He had a rifle on the hood and the car handles were pistols. The gear shift was a holster and he had silver dollars sewn into the very decorative leather interior of his car. If that wasn't impressie enough, Elvis' Gold Cadillac was painted using over 20 coats of a paint with ground pearls in it. The interior was Gold with a Gold TV and other accessories. We slept in and lounged about watching some college football on Saturday and had a very nice adult dinner at J Alexanders. Sunday after church we geared up in some cooler weather attire and headed to LP Field to watch the Denver Broncos play the Titans. We had great seats and were sitting right above the endzone where the Broncos scored the winning touchdown. It was a great way to end our anniversary weekend. We look forward to many many more years together!

Headed to the Broncos game

The DAWG Fight/ a house divided

2010-09-25T20:11:00.001-05:00

Matt and I dropped the kids off at Mimi's house for the day and headed down to Starkville, MS for the Mississippi State vs. Georgia football game. We had a great day of tailgating with Jody, Jennifer, Madison and Reagan. We were able to visit some with The Coles (Roger, Sarah Ella and Airey) and I even caught up with an old friend (Lane Lewis). It was a beautiful day and for the OTHER bulldogs it was a great game. MSU really played well and I am so glad that Matt had the opportunity to see it live. I on the other hand could have gone without seeing the Georgia Dawgs play so poorly. HOwever, I am glad that we went and had the opportunity to see some of our friends and also live college football. LOVE THIS TIME OF YEAR!

Bully, the mascot making his way to the Stadium

The Famous Maroon Band

Moving up

2010-08-03T20:08:00.000-05:00

Our little boy is growing up! Carter said good bye to the Ladybugs and has moved up to the toddler room. He is now an Explorer. He made the transition beautifully. I thought I'd be a lot more upset about him moving up. However, he was by far the oldest Lady bug and was ready for some kids his own size and skill level. First day he found a buddy to wrestle with, Isaac. They were fast friends and continue to wrestle daily. Isaac was out on vacation and poor max got the wrestle take down the other day and he didn't know what hit him. He proceeded to hit Carter and Ms. Katie said it was hysterical to look at their faces. She said that each one had the look like what did you do that for?

Park time for everyone

2010-07-26T20:18:00.001-05:00

Ella Catherine Sliding

On the balance beam

Climbing up
Carter and Matt hanging out watching Baylor and Elway play.

The kids trying out the dog's playground...they had a blast.
Hot, tired and ready to go home.

On the weekends, we try to get the kids outdoors as much as possible to enjoy some fresh air. This summer it has been a bit of a challenge because it has been so hot. However, our kids are early risers and so that gives us the mornings to get them out and about. The other weekend we decided to make it a family affair and we took the dogs to the dog park to play while the kids ran around. We had a woman and her two dogs join us while we were there. Ella Catherine is still pretty scared of dogs and doesn't really like them aproaching her(we are working on this but it it a slow process). She is better if she can make the moves, but most dogs are curious and want to sniff etc.. So, she wasn't too found of the other dogs. Carter on the other hand is a dog lover! He will watch and play with our dogs for hours. He loves lying on them and patting them. He is the same way with any dog he has come in contact with. These dogs were no exception. So, he decided to stay back in the dog park while I took Ella Catherine over to the playground to play. After the playground we came home, ate lunch and all took naps, canines included. It was GLORIOUS!

Hanging out on a Saturday morning

2010-07-17T19:57:00.000-05:00

Ella Catherine and Carter hanging out in their rocking chairs, with their blankets, drinking milk

Happy boy! LOVES his milk!!

One is a little more spry than the other. Can you tell which one isn't quite the morning person? HAHA

Our New Home

2010-07-01T19:30:00.001-05:00

After months of searching in multiple different areas of Nashville and the surrounding area, Matt and I finally found a house!! We closed on our new home on June 24th. I am very thankful that we found a house to rent when we needed one, but am very excited about having a home of our own again. We/I am enjoying decorating and adding those touches that make a house a home.

We have plenty of room now and welcome visitors! :)

Mr Fix It

2010-06-30T19:57:00.001-05:00

Mimi got Carter a set of play power tools for his birthday and he LOVES them. It has been both a blessing and a curse. :) We always know where he is because you can hear the buzzing of the drill or saw, but the buzzing in constant and nonstop. :) It is hard to be annoyed by the noise when he is having so much fun. Just see for yourself.

Putting the drill bit in (hey I guess it is helpig with fine motor skills)

Look mom I got it in
ROAR...Here I come full force ahead with drill whirling and buzzing.

At the Car Wash

2010-06-30T19:43:00.000-05:00

Matt decided it was a nice day to wash the cars and Ella Catherine decided that her car needed a wash as well. She had a BALL and we had an equally good time watching her. If only she would keep this enthusiasm as she grows and is old enough to wash our cars. :)Using the power washer

Gotta get the trunk

And the interior

A good thorough towel wash

oops missed a spot

Fun with daddy

2010-06-20T20:35:00.006-05:00

We love getting the kids out early on these HOT summer days to get in some outdoor playtime. One of our favorite spots is the park. Nashville has so many great parks to choose from. This particular morning we were at the Red Caboose Park in Bellevue, TN

play time with daddy

So much funI love this picture! It is as if he is saying "move out the way sister, I've got this"
and there he goes

There is my heart right there on that slide! Matt and our two beautiful children

MoonPie Festival

2010-06-19T20:47:00.004-05:00

One of Matt's co-workers and friends is from Beltbuckle,TN, the home of the MoonPie Festival. When we heard about the festival we had to go see it for ourselves, and it didn't disappoint. Just like the rest of the summer, it was very hot but we had a good time. Of course the best part of the trip was the mon pie and the cold RC cola. :) (which we ate in our air conditioned car.)

At the end of a long hot day, Ella Catherine was not so happy about posing in front of the Moon Pie Destival sign holding the cold RC cola and Moon Pie. Yet, we still had to snap the picture. Someday she will look back and laugh at this.

Carter and Matt. Ella Catherine was still traumatized from having to hold the cold RC Cola in the abve picture.

Carter's first bite of a moonpie. He and I shared a lemon MoonPie.

This is not such a great photo of me, but I love it. The look on Carter's face is priceless! I am cheesing it up and it is as if he is saying "are you done hamming it up mom I want some more moonpie."

Ella Catherine's first bite of a MoonPie (of course she chose a chocolate one). The moonpie made everything better!!

Matt eating his Vanilla Moonpie and drinking his RC cola.

Moving up!

2010-05-29T15:06:00.000-05:00

On 5/14/10 Ella Catherine said good bye to the Honeybears and on 5/17/10 she became a Leaping Frog.

1st day as a leaping frog.

What a difference a year makes....

2010-05-28T15:06:00.004-05:00

Wow, what a difference a year makes. We are so very grateful that Carter is a healthy happy little boy. He turned 1 on 5/20/10 and decided that he was done with only the occasional walking and decided to take off..literally! He walked from our kitchen to the front door the morning of his birthday and there has been no turning back. He is so very proud of himself as are we. It still shocks me a little when I see him walk into a room. Just seems like yesterday he was a baby and now he is approaching toddlerhood at an increasing speed. He had his 12 mo check up and he is 25lbs 2 oz (81st%), 30inches tall (72%). He has 8 teeth and is working on his molars. He has been off the bottle since he was about 11 months old and LOVES his sippy cup and whole milk. He is now eating what the big kids eat at school...no more baby food. Always a blessing and a curse. Trying to get all the veggies and fruits in is always a new challenge with the difference in textures. We are lucky that he likes food and is a good eater. As you can tell from his stats, he doesn't miss many meals. :)

His teachers and classmates threw him a little party at school on his birthday. I provided the blueberry muffins....no cupcakes in the infant room. :) Then we had a party at the house for family and close friends. He had a ball and we had so much fun watching him.

Annual Mother-son birthday picture.

His classmates made this cute banner for him. It is signed with all their hand prints/ foot prints

Sitting at the big table eating his muffins
Birthday boy!

The birthday cake His smash cake
Getting ready to dig in!

MMMM. Cake!
Taking his bike for a spin

Loving his new lawn mower. He pushes it all over the house.
The Crew: Erich, Ella Catherine, Carter and Reese.

Graduations

2010-05-27T15:05:00.011-05:00

We had 3 big graduations in the family this year. Christopher graduated from Christian Brother's High School. Cori and Michael graduated from eigth grade. We are very proud of all 3 of them.
Michael receiving his History award at his eigth grade acheivements ceremony.

Michael, John, Chris and Debbie before Christian Brother's High School Graduation 2010

Lori, Kelly and Cori at St. Joseph Catholic school eigth grade graduation 2010

School Pictures

2010-05-27T15:05:00.005-05:00

Carter's DayCare Class "The Lady Bugs": From Left to right: Miss Anita, Molly, Sarah, Gabriel, Sofia, Miss Linda, Lucia, Sloan , Carter

Ella Catherine's Preschool Picture "The HoneyBears": from left to right: (top) Shufei, Micah, Ilan, Ella Catherine, and Miss Kenithia (middle) Miss Kristin, Ivy, Bella, Chris and Tanner (bottom) Zuri, Bryce and Lucy

Nashville Flood

2010-05-17T19:51:00.004-05:00

May came in with a BANG this year in Nashville. The first weekend in May, we received over 13 inches of rain in less than 48hours. As a result it caused massive flooding all over the city of Nashville. Before our power went out on Saturday I was in disbelief as I saw an 18 wheeler completely submerged in water on I-24 and the mobile home that it had been carrying actually floating down I-24. I knew that the Harpeth River which runs along side our neighborhood was swelling and that it could come over its bank but I never fathomed how far above the bank it would actually rise. We realized that we were flooded in when Matt tried to run to the grocery store for me. For the rest of the morning we tried to get some work done around the house all the while keeping an eye on the rising water as it continued to rain. Mid-morning Matt put on his waiters and began going from house to house helping our neighbors salvage their belongings as the water continued to rise and start invading their homes. What started as salvaging belongings turned into saving people from their flooded homes. Our neighbor had a bass boat and he and Matt drove around rescuing people. Around 5pm Matt came back by the house and told me to pack a bag for myself and the kids with at least 3 days worth of clothing and supplies. I think initially I was in shock but eventually began packing. The kids and I waited in line to get on a boat and be transported out of our neighborhood to safety. It was such a surreal experience to be taken by boat accross an area that we usually drive and walk. the current was unbelieveable! The kids were excellent through the whole process. One of Matt's co-workers and friend met us on the other side and drove us to Kimberly's house. Matt stayed back and continued to help people get themselves, their children and their animals on the boats and off to safety. He got Baylor and Elway and they took the very last boat out that evening around 9pm. We were not very concerned about our house flooding but we had no power and very little food. The Nashville Rescue team was telling us it could be as long as a week before we had power. Luckily, we were house sitting for some friends and we actually went and sat in their house! We can not say thank you enough to them for letting us invade their home while they were away. We are VERY blessed and VERY lucky that our house did not sustain any flood damage.

Our hearts go out to those that did have their homes flooded. It is devastating to drive through the hardest hit areas and see all the debris on the streets and the gutted homes. You honestly can not imagine the extent until you see it first hand. We continue to pray for all the families affected and are trying to work through our church to reach out to people and help. Please keep Nashville in your prayers.

Georgia and Colorado

2010-04-30T20:13:00.007-05:00

Cori enjoyed fixing Ella Catherine's Hair and Ella Catherine enjoyed playing with Cousin Cori

Pop helping Ella Catherine go accross the monkey bars at the park

Ella Catherine playing at the museum

Happy Couples first dance

3 Generations of Lynch Men. (Next time we want a picture of the 3 generations of James Lynchs. Uncle Jimmy I know you are reading this so remind us!!)

Carter's Goose Egg. It got unbelieveabley huge!

Matt's cousin, Amy, got married last Saturday April 24th in Estes Park, Colorado. So, Carter, Matt and I (along with Grandpa, Grams, Uncle Michael, Uncle Christopher, Aunt Katie and Uncle Shannon) flew out to Colorado for the wedding. The Wednesday before the wedding Nana and Pop drove up from Georgia spent the night and then took Ella Catherine back with them to Georgia on Thursday for a big girl's weekend. We had a great time in Colorado and I think she had an equally good time in Georgia.

When we got to Denver on Friday we had heard rumors about low temperatures and snowstorms and the rumors were true. It was snowing like crazy up in the mountains. So much so that the bride and groom were delayed to their own rehearsal dinner. No one minded the delay as it allowed us all time to catch up with family. The wedding was beautiful and elegant. The scenery was breathtaking. The wildlife was unbelievable. The company was outstanding. We had a wonderful trip.

It was Carter's first time in an airplane and I can honestly say that he did, ok. Not great but not bad. Flying with an infant is challenging because of their schedules and tight quarters. Carter has never been a baby that liked to be rocked or patted to sleep. He would much rather be put down and left alone. He doesn't fall asleep with the mom bounce and sway or pat. Infact, all of that usually makes him angrier. So, I knew the airplane would be a challenge. Luckily, I brought "the closer" (AKA Matt) with me. He is completely unphased by crying and screaming. So, when Carter got irritable he just got up and went to the back of the plane and worked his magic. When he came back my little monster was once again an angel. He did great at the wedding but had a little fall at the reception. I knew when he fell that it wasn't going to be good. I wasn't sure what he hit but I knew I needed to get him up, comfort him and get him out of the room quickly as he was going to wail. And wail he did indeed but I can't say I blame him. He hit his forhead on the metal leg of a reception table. I now know where the phrase goose egg came from. (See picture below). Luckily, Matt's cousin, Theresa, is a sports medicine MD and gave him a quick neuroexam. It cut our night short as we left and headed back to our cabin to monitor our little man for an hour or so before he went to bed, but it definitely made me sleep easier knowing that he had been checked. Surprisingly the next morning the bump was gone and only a blue bruise was in its place. Kids are so resilient.

As for Ella Catherine, she had a ball in Macon with Nana, Pop, Becky, Cindy (AKA aunt Kelly), Cori, Uncle Brian and Aunt Lori. Nana and Pop took her to the museum and the park. Cori and Uncle Brian played ball with her. Aunt Kelly colored and played bubbles with her. She was Nana's little helper and helped make dinner and even made some banana pudding. She was a very good girl and was very excited to see Matt on Monday. He met my folks half way to pick her up.

We have had a good week at home and are recovering from the Nashville Flood and being evacuated. story and pictures to come.

Baby Kisses

2010-04-18T20:24:00.002-05:00

I had almost forgotten how great it is the first time your baby kisses you. Carter started giving those open mouthed slobbery baby kisses this weekend and it was absolutely WONDERFUL!!! You can ask for a kiss and he will give you one with a BIG grin on his face and it is often followed by a little baby chuckle (one of the best sounds on the face of the earth). This morning when Matt got him up he laid a big kiss on him and it made his day! God has truly blessed us!

Spring is here!

2010-04-14T14:42:00.007-05:00

We are so excited that Spring is finally here! Our sinuses are not so happy about all the pollen but it is a small price to pay for the beautiful weather. We have been enjoying lots of outdoor time.

Easter weekend Nana and Pop came to stay with Ella Catherine and Carter while Matt and I had our first adult weekend since Carter was born. We went to Louisville, KY for my best friend, Jennifer's wedding. It was so nice to be able to sleep in and actually get a full night of uninterrupted sleep. The wedding was BEAUTIFUL and we had a BLAST! We have decided that we need to go back and actually get out and enjoy the city as this trip we only enjoyed sleeping in the hotel room. :) We got home just in time for the Easter bunny's arrival. We can't thank my parents enough for taking care of the kids.

A little update on the kids:

Carter is now 10 1/2 months old. He gave us a scare about 1 month ago. He had pneumonia and almost ended up in the hospital. Luckily the antibiotics worked and in 24 hours you would never have known he was sick. He is standing up by himself now and will walk holding 1 finger. It is only a matter of time before we have a cruiser. He is just as happy as he can be and his chuckle is one of the highlights of my day. One of the other highpoints is his bear hugs. He LOVES to give big hugs.

Ella Catherine is a delight and a handful all in one cute little package. Matt and I are well aware that she is no longer a toddler but a little girl. It really is amazing how muh she has changed in 3 years. Much to her dad's delight she is really starting to become interested in sports. She has started wanting to play baseball with Matt in the yard. She can throw the ball pretty well, has a pretty good arm on her but we are still working on the catching. I have a feeling that she will have her own little glove and teeball set here before too long. :)

Spring morning anxiously waiting to be able to go outside

Hunting Easter eggsStanding up by himself

Beautiful Spring day at the parkElla Catherine showing Carter the flowersMe and the kidsMatt and Ella Catherine (LOVE this Picture!)MS walk at Percy Warner (whole family minus Baylor participated)

Throwing the softball with daddy in her tutuCarter loving the car

Our Princess turned 3

2010-03-26T16:07:00.011-05:00

Ella Catherine is full force into the PRINCESS/BALLERINA phase. So, it was only fitting that we had a princess themed birthday party. Her celebration started on her actual birthday, March 5th. Her Daycare was celebrating Dr. Seus' birthday that week. Her class asked parents to come and be a surprise reader for story time and read a Dr. Seus book. I was fortunate enough to be able to be the special reader twice. I read my personal favorite "Green Eggs and Ham" on Wednesday and Friday i read "Hop on Pop". Everyone in the daycare wore pajamas to school Friday to celebrate. So, we sent Ella Catherine and Carter in their matching Pj's to school. I personally can't think of many other ways I'd rather spend my birthday than wearing my Pj's all day. :) Matt and I took off work early to attend her school party. Per her request I baked Strawberry princess cupcakes and we gave out tiaras to the girls and party hats for the boys.

Nana, Pop, Uncle Christopher and Mimi all came in town Friday and we made homemade pizzas to celebrate. She got to open up some of her presents. Matt and I commissioned one of his coworkers to make her a princess dress and we bought her some "heel highs" as se calls them to go with it. Nana and Pop bought her a ballerina leotard with an attached tutu and the ballerina slippers to match. Mimi bought her princess Pj's with matching slippers so we could get her out of the other two outfits to sleep! :) She had a ball changing outfits and shoes all night! She also got a John Deere tractor pedal toy...every princess needs one. :)

Saturday Grams and Uncle Michael joined the festivities and we all headed over to the Red Caboose Park for her big celebration. She had a ball playing wth all her friends on the playground. It is located next to one of the libraries in town, which had the cleanest potty. So, Matt took all the kids and he read stories while they each took turns with one of the other mommys going potty. Unfortunately I didn't get a picture of that. She topped off her day by opening two more princess dresses(snow white and cinderella) from Grams and Grandpa. She has worn one of the 4 dresses almost daily since.

Seems like yesterday that she was born and we held her for the first time. How much has changed in 3 years. She is such the little lady now and a great big sister. Some of my favorite things she says: heel highs= high heels, titans= tights, I'm gonna won= I'm going to win, all the singy ladies= all the single ladies (usually accompanied by the tune, picked this one up at daycare from a friend). She will now ask for something and promptly follow it up with "don't say no". For example, "momma can I have some goldfish..don't say no." She likes to plays hide and seek, throw the softball in the yard and LOVES to run. She is a complete card shark! She can win go fish and old maid 8 times out of 10. She loves playing the board game pretty pretty princess (thank you aunt Kelly and cousin Cori) and is gearing up to give Uncle Brian a run for the title our next trip to Georgia. I obviously could go on and on but in a nutshell, she is a wonderful daughter and we are so blessed to be her parents.

Every Princess needs a John DeereHer Ballerina tutu and shoes (AKA: Her sparkly dress..we LOVE this dress)

The Pretty Pretty Princess with all her jewelsLoving the Princess dress Matt and I had made for herThe Princess Castle cake made my yours truly.
At her Birthday Party at the park, ready for some cake. :)

Nine Months Old

2010-02-28T20:11:00.005-06:00

Where has the time gone? I honestly can not believe that Carter is 9 months old. It seems like yesterday that we were asking all of our friends and family to pray that our little baby boy would survive. Here we are 9 months later and we praise God daily for his health and for allowing us to be his parents. What an awesome responsibility and an amazing honor.

At 9 months old, Carter now has 7 teeth (another one just popped through this weekend). He is babbling constantly. He is an expert crawler and can get anywhere he wants in the blink of an eye. He is pulling up on EVERYTHING and cruising around furniture. He is even grabbing from one piece of furniture to the next. He can stand by himself but when he finds himself doing it, he promptly sits down. :) He loves to walk holding your hands or behind his push toy. His favorite person reamins his big sister. He adores her and she him. He lets her feed him and they love to take baths together. He really is such a laid back, happy and mild mannered little boy, with one exception. Don't get between him and his food. He has been known to have a complete melt down at daycare when he thought someone else was eating his bottle. (new baby started and she had the same bottles he did and he was convinced she was eating his food) He is loving his taste of table food (cheerios, bananas, very soft cooked peas etc..). At daycare, they have to put him in his crib when they feed the other children because he will pull up and steal their food. What can I say, I do send him food but he is a big boy and someone elses food always looks better than your own! I am frightened to think of our food bill when he is a teenager.

He just had his 9mo check up and he is 22.8lbs (78th%), 29.5in tall (85%) and his head is 47 (88%). He has dropped down from over the 90th% and we attribute this to his constant motion. The days of him sitting in one place and playing has gone. He is now forever on the go.

Here are some recent pictures of our little miracle!Cheerios!Hmmm, this is different.Loving the Cheerios!!!Thanks mom, now I can have what the big kids have at snack time. :)Cruising behind his walking toySo happy to be able to follow after Ella CatherineSo proud of himself for walking across the room

Let it snow

2010-02-01T17:30:00.012-06:00

It has been way too long since my last post. I will be doing some catching up this week/weekend so be on the lookout.

Well, much like the rest of the country we have had some unusual weather this winter. We have had more snowfall than in all the past 5 years combined. I think everything looks a little better covered in snow! :) That being said, it has snowed mainly during the week and Matt and I still had to go to work. We are so thankful that the kids are in the Vanderbilt daycare and that it does not close for bad weather. It is affiliated with the university and the hospital so it is open as long as they are open and everyone knows that hospitals are always open.

Ella Catherine was much more excited about snow this year and had snow angels and building a snowman on her agenda. Luckily the biggest accumulation of the year thus far occured on the weekend and so we had the opportunity to enjoy it. As you can see by the pictures below we found a lot of fun ways to both enjoy the snow and prevent cabin fever.

Carter was cutting some more teeth and was very congested so we kept him inside. He now has 6 teeth. He is pulling up on everything and walking around furniture. He was 9 months old this past weekend... where has the time gone? We have his 9mo check up this week so stay tuned for his new stats!

Ella Catherine is doing a little Yoga with Mommy and the Wii. The Wii helped us get a little exercise and prevent cabin fever. We had dance competitions with "Just Dance", We did Yoga, hula hoop, running races and biggest loser challenges.

following along with the instructor

I honestly think she has better form than I do.

Getting in position to make snow angels

1...2...3...
making snowangels

The final product! One momma snowangel and one little girl snowangel.

Ella Catherine working with her shovel to get snow together for the snowman

Matt shoveling the snow for our snowman

Carter having fun as always! Just hanging out in his jams in the exersaucer

Playing a little Wii Fit and doing the Hula With Daddy....so much fun!

What else do we do when it snows? We make brownies with daddy.

Adding some sprinkles for extra fun brownies.

Becky's 90th birthday

2010-01-30T10:05:00.008-06:00

Carter and Ella Catherine with their Great Grandmother Becky, AKA the Birthday Girl!!!
Cousins! Ella Catherine, Carter and Cori
Carter showing off his new crawling skills
Aunt Kelly and Ella Catherine coloring
All the ladies in the family(from left to right): Michele Cassidy, Me, Kelly Williams, Becky (the birthday girl!), Lori Cassidy, Gaye Carter, Cori Williams and Mary Kay Byerly

My grandmother, Becky, celebrated her 90th birthday on January 10th. It was a celebration the Lynch Family wasn't about to miss. So, we headed to Macon for the festivities.
Ella Catherine has become more aware over this past year of what birthday celebrations are all about. So, she was very excited to sing happy birthday to Becky and to eat some birthday cake. :) My grandmother's nieces, Gaye and Mary Kay, also came to town to help celebrate. We had a house full and Ella Catherine and Carter loved all the attention! Matt and I enjoyed seeing them play with everyone and enjoyed a little break at the same time. As always it was a great trip. Becky had a wonderful birthday! And we are so glad that we could be there to help her celebrate. I love my Becky!!!

moving in 2010

2010-01-07T08:45:00.003-06:00

Here is a picture of Carter sitting on Santa's lap taken at Matt's Xmas party. We just got the pictures.

Well, 2010 started off with a bang! Carter has decided that crawling was way more fun than sitting still. :) He has been "precrawling" for several weeks now. You could set him down in one spot and he would gradually make his way across the room. So, he could get to what he wanted to get, it just took some time. He would crawl 1-2 times and lunge forward. Well, 2010 came and on 1-3-09 he started crawling full force! He is at the stage now where we really have to be careful about what is on the floor and tables that he can reach etc... I can't believe that he is already crawling and about to turn 8 months. It is exciting to see him developing new skills and exploring his surroundings, but seems like yesterday he was born.

On a side note, his top two teeth are about to push through the gums anyday now. I know he will be relieved when they do and we are hoping that his runny nose might clear up for a while once his teeth come through.

ho ho ho, Christmas 2009

2009-12-25T18:36:00.013-06:00

We are hoping that all of you had a very Merry Christmas. The past 2 weeks have been very full of fun family festivities. So full that between all the fun and work blogging has taken a back burner. So, let me take a moment to catch up. The weekend before Christmas, Nana and Pop came to celebrate Christmas with us. They arrived Friday just in time to watch the kids while Matt and I headed off to my office party. It was great to spend an adult evening away and know that the kids were well taken care of...always nice to have the grandparents visit. :) As I mentioned in my last post Ella Catherine attempted to sit on Santa's lap with Matt and Mimi but the line was too long. Well, she spoke about it all week long and so Ella Catherine, Nana an I left out Saturday morning to go sit on Santa's lap. (Carter has been battling a very nasty cold and so we left him at home with Daddy and Pop.) We were hoping that the line wouldn't be too terrible but were prepared for the worst. Luckily, we were pleasanly surprised. The line was not long at all. She kept to her word and walked right up to Santa and I put her on his lap. She smiled pretty for the picture and then told him what she wanted for Christmas. She said thank you when he gave her a candy cane and that was that! Surprisingly we made it home in time to allow the guys to go have some fun of there own. Sunday Nana, Ella Catherine and I went to go see the Princess and the Frog. She enjoyed it and was happy to tell her friends at school on Monday that she had gone to the Movies.

Tuesday was Carter's 6 month follow up with the cardiologist. He had an EKG and an ECHO and was a very good boy through the whole thing. As I mentioned before, he has had a VERY bad cold for 3 weeks now and he was having a bad day Tuesday. He has slept most of the day at daycare and had just thrown up his bottle when I arried to take him to the doctor. So, I was extremely proud of how well he did givin the circumstances. He smiled as usual at everyone and had stolen all there hearts by the time we left. Dr. Doyle gave him a clean bill of health and proclaimed him one of his blessings this year. Of Course, he is one of our as well. His ECHO was normal. No more mitral valve regurgitation!!!! All chambers of his heart are normal size!!! It was truly the best Christmas present Matt and I have ever received.

We were both off work Christmas Eve, and we had a nice family day at home. We baked cookies for Santa. We played, We read, We sang, We danced and we practiced writing our letters. Carter slept a lot (still not feeling the best) and played hard when he was awake. Then we all got dressed for church and went to "go see Baby Jesus" as Ella Catherine so eloquently said on the way to church. After church we headed out to Opry Mills and drove through there Christmas lights and Bethlehem display. It was BEAUTIFUL and Ella Catherine loved it! Carter was fast asleep. :) Then is was home to put out the cookies and milk for santa and carrots for the reindeer. Matt did his traditional reading of twas the night before Christmas and it was off to bed. This was the only night in a very long time that she did not play around when it was bed time. :)

Christmas morning I was awake before anyone excited about the day. She woke up and Matt brought her downstairs. She wasn't quite sure what to make of things. She spotten the things that Santa had brought to Carter first and then saw her Tricycle and books. We then had our milk while mom read her the new books. After that I think she finally woke up and once we started looking in her stocking to see what Santa left she was overjoyed and wired! She helped everyone open there gifts. :) The day was spent playing with our new toys and old alike. It was a GREAT day! Sad to see it come to and end.Ready to sit on Santa's lapAnd here she is.....on Santa's lap!

Putting the cookies, milk and carrots out for Santa and his reindeerElla Catherine showing Matt the cookies she made for Santa

The traditional reading of twas the night before Christmas.Carter was already nestled all snug in his bed

Carter's new WalkerBoth kids got new wheels for ChristmasElla Catherine feeding her baby doll

Matt couldn't resist getting him started early with some camo

The aftermath! Hurricane Christmas 09'

Gingerbread, gum drops, icing and sprinkles Oh My!

2009-12-14T18:19:00.008-06:00

The gingerbread house before the earthquake. :)
One gum drop on the house, One gum drop in my mouth
So focused on the kneading of the icing
Ella Catherine and Mimi in their matching aprons
Mimi feeding Carter some breakfast

Mimi came to visit this weekend. She and Ella Catherine went shopping at Sam's and came back with all kinds of goodies like a fruit tray and vegetable tray all picked out by Ella Catherine. In addition, she picked out a Gingerbread house kit. So, Mimi, Ella Catherine and I attempted to make a gingerbread house. Mimi had made us all matching aprons to wear. We are very excited to have them and will enjoy them for years to come when we make our Christmas goodies. Let me just say, in making a ginger bread house it is most helpful to read the instructions and follow them. Our kit had conflicting information and we obviously chose the wrong set of instructions to follow. So, we had an earthwake and the house fell down shortly after we took the above picture. However, Matt came to the rescue and fixed it. House is now standing and all is right in the world. The most important thing was Ella Catherine had a great time making the house. She ate almost as much candy as she put on the house and is officially obsessed with candy. When someone asks her what Santa is bringing her or what she wants Santa to bring her she says "Candy".
I had Carter's 6 month photos scheduled for Saturday morning. Angela, our wonderful photographer, had agreed to take some pictures of Ella Catherine as well. Mimi came along to help and it was so nice to have another set of hands to help. I think we got some fabulous pictures and I can't wait to see the proofs. Despite having a terrible cold he cooperated beautifully.
Sunday Carter was feeling worse. So, mimi watched the kids while Matt and I went to church. After church Carter and I stayed at the house while Matt and Mimi took Ella Catherine to see Santa. Well, the line for Santa was extremely long and they did not get to visit with the jolly ol elf. She told Matt that she wasn't scared and she was going to sit on his lap, but history says otherwise. At Matt's company Christmas party Santa came to visit and she cried and refused to sit on his lap. She was still asking to see Santa today and so I think we may try again this weekend...Lord help us!

O Christmas Tree

2009-12-09T20:17:00.011-06:00

The Lynch Christmas tree 2009: note the paperchain made by Ella Catherine
PJ time in front of the tree

Putting the angel on top

Our Elf from Santa, "Jess"

Matt, Ella Catherine, Carter and I went Friday after work/school to pick out our Christmas tree. When we got home, Ella Catherine and Carter had gotten a package from Santa Claus. He sent them an Elf to watch over them and report back to him if they were naughty or nice. Ella Catherine got to name him and what you need to know is Ella Catherine isn't into naming her baby dolls or stuffed animals. If the stuffed animal is a teddy bear then its name is teddy bear, if it is a lamb it is lamby. She has many babies and they are distinguished by their size or what they are wearing. For instance, we have purple baby, pink baby, big baby, little baby, soft baby and dolly. So, naming the Elf was a chore to say the least. However, after Matt and I threw out a few names or 20 she came up with "Jess" all on her own. So, our Elf on the Shelf's name is "Jess". She wasn't so sure about the whole Elf thing in the beginning but is very into it now and is excited to look for Jess every morning.
Saturday was filled with decorating the house and the Christmas trees. We have a little artificial tree up in Ella Catherine's room and the family tree downstairs. She really enjoyed putting the ornaments on her tree and liked looking at all the ornaments for the big tree but wasn't much into putting them on. By this time she was ready for some arts and crafts. So, she helped Matt and I get our Christmas cards addressed by putting on the return address labels. Therefore, when you get our cards and you think the label looks a little off remember a 2 1/2 year old did it. :) Carter was observing everything from his jumper. He gets a look in his eye when he looks at the tree and I can just see the wheels turning. If he does crawl before Christmas, we will have to break out the playpen to keep him out of the tree. We are gearing up for Christmas and I can't believe it is only 16 days away!!!

Carter's 6 month checkup

2009-12-07T10:07:00.002-06:00

Carter had his 6 month check up on 12/4/09. (Technically he was 6 1/2 months) He is doing well. His top two teeth are very swollen and we expect them to pop through soon. Perhaps he will get his two front teeth for Christmas. :) Dr. Harraf also said he has some more bottom teeth that are starting to bud. Looks like he will have a good set of chompers before long. He is developing well and his motor skills are good. He weighs 20lbs 12oz (93rd%), he is 28in (90th%)tall and his head is off the charts at 47 (we like to say it is because he has a lot of brains :) ). He is still very anxious to crawl and I have a feeling we will have to get the playpen out if he starts before Christmas. He gets a wild look in his eye when he sees the Christmas tree and I can see those little wheels in his head turning! HA! He goes for his next cardiologist visit on 12/22/09. Matt and I are praying and asking for a good ECHO for Christmas this year.

so much to be thankful for....

2009-12-02T16:45:00.017-06:00

The whole family on Thanksgiving afternoon.

Carter with his godmother and aunt

Photo op with Aunt Lori and Uncle Brian. Ella Catherine asked if they could come over and play again as she was going to bed that night. Too Cute! :)

Ella Catherine wrote her name on the back porch for Nana and Pop to enjoy until it rains. :)

The "Duck Commanders", Matt and Cori

Early morning play time in their PJ's

So much fun sitting up and playing with big sister

Making a christmas paperchain to hang on the christmas tree

Matt and I have so very much to be thankful for this year. Matt found a job that he loves working for Cogent Healthcare. We finally sold our house in Memphis and were fortunate enough to find a house to rent in Nashville until we can find a home to buy. I think I can speak for Matt when I say that what we are most thankful for this year is the health of our two children. We were so very blessed with the birth of our baby boy, James Carter Lynch on 5/20/09. Unfortunately, he had a very rough start to life and had us and the doctor's very worried for his life. Thanks to all of our prayer warriors around the country we were blessed with a miracle and he was healed. How he got sick, what actually caused it and how he became better is still a mystery to his healthcare team. We are just very thankful that God answered all those prayers with his healing. I know that he has very big plans for our little man and I am excited to watch as they unfold.

Carter has grown so much in his 6 months on earth. He goes for a checkup tomorrow but unofficially he weighs about 20lbs now and is sooo tall! He is literally bigger than some of the 1 year olds in his class. He is just minutes to days from crawling. He wants to move so badly and he works at it every chance he can get. He is grabbing everything and putting it all in his mouth. Definitely teething big time! He already has 2 teeth and although we don't see any evidence of another one, I feel like it is very close. He has the drool soaked tops to proove it. :) He loves to jabber and try to communicate and LOVES LOVES LOVES his big sister. He smiles and laughs with her every chance he gets. Now that he is sitting up so well they actually sit on the floor together and play. It is so cute to watch. Ella Catherine is a great big sister. She will bring him toys and sit with him and talk, sing or read him books. She too has grown so much this year. She is turning into a little girl right in front of our eyes. She is so smart and very quick to learn. She has several books memorized word for word and loves to sit and read them to us and Carter. She can write her name, well part of her name (Ella). She is so happy, full of life and spunk! She can definitely be full of drama at times as well. :) She LOVES LOVES LOVES her little brother and shows it every opportunity she can by hugging and kissing him. She is completely potty trained, she can dress herself, and brush her own teeth. She is a big help with Carter. She likes to pick out his clothes, help feed him and give him a bath. It has been a lot of fun for Matt and I to watch as their sibling bond grows stronger and they begin to interact.

For Thanksgiving we packed up the kids and the dogs and headed to Georgia for a few days. Matt, my dad, Cori and Brian spent a good portion of the trip hunting. Unfortunately, they didn't get anything but I know they had a good time out in the woods. We were a little disappointed that the ducks didn't fly for them as we were hoping that Elway could show off his skills that dad taught him and Matt has been working so hard to reinforce.

The kids, myself, mom and Becky hung out at the house for the most part. Brian, Lori, Kelly, Keith and Cori came by the house several times to visit and play with the kids. We made a paper chain to go on the Christmas tree, made and decorated Christmas cookies, played with bubbles and sidewalk chalk, rode bicycles etc... Of course, we watched a lot of football and mom and I even left the kids with the guys for an afternoon to go get some Christmas shopping done. As always it was a great trip.

Pickwick

2009-11-23T13:54:00.004-06:00

Matt grew up going to his dad's lakehouse in Pickwick. As a result, he grew up with a love for the water. Although my family did not have a lakehouse, we did have a boat and so we too grew up with a great appreciation for all that lake life has to offer. We are very grateful that our children are able to experience lake life as well. So, this past Saturday morning we loaded up and took a trip to pickwick to see Grandpa, Grams, Uncle Michael and Uncle Christopher. It was definitely too cold to enjoy the water activities that lake life has to offer. However, we did enjoy spending time with good friends the Johnsons and the Haffleys. Grandpa and I also tried to introduce Ella Catherine to one of my favorite winter activities, roasting marshmallows but she wanted nothing to do with it. She preferred her marshmallows not gooey. Oh well, maybe when she is older.
We also brought Elway with us this trip to test out his new hunting skills in a large body of water. He did very well and it seems has gotten over his extreme dislike for the cold water(key to being successful as a duck hunting dog). He jumped in without hesitation and retrieved every dummy that was thrown.