The Gonda Family

Our Baby Girl is 2!!

2012-01-17T21:21:00.009-06:00

My little Amelia had her birthday on the 15th! It amazes me that this sweet little girl has been with our family for 2 years! What a blessing she is!! She makes me smile everyday and brings such enjoyment into our family!

A few things about Amelia!

Loves her sister, baby dolls and real babies, playing make believe with her sister, playing in the car, visiting grandparents, reading, the bottle, her lamb, getting chased by her dad, grandpa, or uncles.
She is very clever and smart girl. She is speaking well and says so much! Some of my favorite phrases are: "What happened?", "Where's daddy? Madi? Mommy? etc.", "Can I play a minute?"
She's a tough girl and rarely cries when she gets hurt and usually gets right back up and at it.
She loves to sings and is so precious as she sings songs and remembers many of the words. Some of her favorites are Oh Boy, I've Got Joy, I am a Child of God, I Love to See the Temple, Jingle Bells, Jesus Wants Me for a Sunbeam,
Learning to go potty on the big toilet and does a great job...she's almost there!
Loves to go to nursery (even now without her sister there)
She's a good eater: She'll most things but loves pasta, cereal, fruit, sandwiches, cheese, and sweets of course.
Very independent; She always wants to dress herself-clothes, socks, and shoes, as well as anything else she can do by herself like closing doors, peeling oranges, brushing teeth, washing, even cleaning up.
She is a very happy girl, pretty easy going, good sleeper, and loves to laugh and smile.

Amelia adores her sister and does a great job at keeping up with her. They are best friends (most of the time) and love playing together.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SWEET AMELIA! WE LOVE YOU OH SO MUCH!!!

2012-01-10T21:17:00.007-06:00

November

So just a few random pictures from November. I guess this wasn't a very exciting month, because I have few pictures. Not that I'm EVER great about remembering to take pictures!

Madi fell asleep on the floor next to her babies.

One day I came into Amelia's room to find them dumping books into her crib. Of course they both wanted to get in and read for a while, which is find with me. They love to read and this was just a fun new place to do it. It kept them busy and contained for quite a while! Love that!

On Thanksgiving day we decided to do the Turkey Trot. It was pretty low key, even for a sick, pregnant girl who hasn't really exercised since I've been pregnant. In fact we just walked the 2 mile loop with the girls, Ryan was sick also so he stayed with me and the girls. There were so many people you couldn't even walk fast. The girls didn't even last too long in the stroller and had to get out and run. It was nice to get out before we pigged out on food all day.

My family was out of town for Thanksgiving so we were able to spend the holiday with the Gondas. It was such a nice day. After the Turkey Trot we came home and hung out, later we went over to Mark and Susy's for the feast! As always is was great food and great company, it was a smaller crowd than usual, but great nevertheless.

Christmas Tree Cutting
A few days after Thanksgiving we headed up to Dog Valley to find a Christmas tree with most of Ryan's family. It's been a tradition in is family for years, and my family used to go cut a tree back when we were younger. It's all for the experience and was worth the effort. I love the tradition. It was such a beautiful day and nice weather. It's been such a dry season, there wasn't even much snow on the ground. The girls loved being out in the forest, eating their lunch in the back of the cars and trucks and playing with their cousins of course.

2012-01-10T20:34:00.003-06:00

BABY ON THE WAY!!!!

For those who haven't heard yet we're having a baby and a baby BOY at that!! We are so very excited to be welcoming a baby boy in March and can't wait to meet him! I am now 29 weeks and counting down the minutes. For those who are familiar with my pregnancies, this one has not been all that different. Without the painful details, the first 5 months were the hardest. The usual nausea and vomiting all the time. Thankfully back on Zofran and I've been able to function. One difference has been that the medicine really seems to help me in the morning and I feel much more functional, but afternoon it goes down hill and evenings nothing helps but going to bed. It has gotten better and I feel OK most days and am down to vomiting only a few times a week if that, which is great! I don't always feel great (nauseous much of the time), but it could be a lot worse. Today must be a good day cause this is more positive than I often feel. Some things have been harder I think because I have two little girls to care for as well. I've been very tired this whole pregnancy, but we're surviving.
We had a lot of help at the beginning from all the wonderful family near by and they saved me on many occasions. As my pregnancies cause quite the change for our whole family, my wonderful husband of course picked up all the pieces that I've seemed to drop and is amazing in every way. He's busy with work, church calling, and studying and NEVER complains! He's my hero!
The girls are both SOOOO excited about a baby. It' been fun with Madi because she understands must more this time and is very aware of everything. Amelia just follows suit and they both love to hug, kiss, and talk to baby brother/belly! I sure love these little girls. They are already quite the little mothers with their baby dolls and it will be fun (and maybe a little scary) to seem them with a newborn.
As for this little boy growing inside me...I am so excited to meet him. It always amazes me how much you can love a kicking little unseen baby as they grow inside you. I think about him all the time and can't wait to hold, kiss and snuggle this little one. He's a good boy already and kicks and moves a lot for me, which I love. He knows his Mama needs that reassurance as often as possible. Just 10 more weeks!
OK, so I don't love taking or sharing pregnant pictures, but for records sake...I know I should put a few in for the books.

I think this was about 20 weeks.

Here's a 25 week belly.

Can't wait for March 19th to meet this little guy!

Christmas 2011 and New Year 2012

2012-01-05T20:53:00.026-06:00

I know, I know...you may have thought we fell off the face of the Earth, but we ARE alive!

I'm so far behind in blogging, I don't even know where to begin. We have had a very busy past 6 or 7 months and I hope to back track and record at least some of the pictures and activities we've had. So here's my attempt at this past month.

Our little Madi has been taking a dance class these past few months and their first recital was a Christmas program. Madi loves to perform and adored getting to wear a little make up and be up on the big stage. She has always loved dancing and continues to brighten up when the music plays! She did a great job and loved having Nona, Grandma and Grandpa, as well as Daddy, Amelia and I there as her audience. So fun to see our little dancer!

Madi has been taking her ballet class with her cute friend Olivia.

They danced to Rudolf the Red Nosed Reindeer.

Family picture! (Yes that's the big baby belly...6 months and counting! More later on that!)

At one of our many gatherings around Christmas time we got a quick snap of Gigi (Great Grandma Gonda) with the great grandkids. We're sure lucky to be blessed with such a wonderful grandmother! She's the best!

The cousins all received matching pajamas on Christmas Eve. They loved being all "matchy matchy". Both girls were very excited to open their first present and Madi embraced her PJs and said "they're just what I always wanted".

THE GREAT GONDA CHRISTMAS EVE GATHERING AND CELEBRATION!!
It was wonderful as always to gather with all the family in the area. The kids loved acting out the nativity and Grandpa Mark read from Luke 2. Madi was excited to be Joseph (which was a relief, because she's constantly playing "Mary" at home and makes Ryan or I be Joseph and had to share parts with the cousins. ) Amelia enjoyed the performance from my lap. We then had a great program where all the families gave a musical performance. Such a talented family! Ryan had to sneak out early from the party to attend a baptism, but I'm glad Madi and Amelia represented our family in singing. We ate tons of yummy food, enjoyed caroling to the neighbors (Madi and Amelia loved running from door to door), and enjoying the beautiful Spirit of Christmas.

Of course I don't have any pictures of the kids opening pictures or of our family...how does the happen? We do have some video, but I must just get caught up in the moment. It was wonderful...with or without pictures. Our girls are at such a fun stage. They LOVED every gift and were so grateful.
On Christmas day, after our church service, we headed over to my parents. It was nice to spend the rest of the evening there with my parents, Luke and Jesse, and Kip and Nicole. We were happy to Kip and Nicole join us too for a few days visiting from Utah. We sure missed having the Odoms there...it's never the same without them. We enjoyed the day opening gifts, eating, playing games and visiting. I sure love that wonderful family of mine and am grateful for them.

BRENT'S HOME!!!!

The next big event was December 27th. Brent came home from his mission from New Zealand and he gathered quite the crowd at the airport! We're so grateful for his service as a full time missionary but it is sure great to have him back home. It's been fun hearing his stories, and New Zealand lingo that he brought home. Love those returned missionaries!
Welcome home Brent!

Happy New Year!
We had a little shindig at out house for New Years. We had some family over and ate some yummy fondue! We had fun playing games and having a little semi sleepover for the kiddos. It's never boring with the Gondas around. I sure love this wonderful family!

Good news

2011-04-09T23:34:00.009-05:00

Here comes the bride....

So I am so VERY excited to share the wonderful news of my baby sister getting engaged!!! Yes, she is still my "baby" sister and I seriously can't believe that she can really be old enough to get married. She is pretty much AMAZING and I am oh so very excited and happy for her! Not to mention that she has chosen a great guy (Kip) to marry in the temple! We love him already!

How cute are they!! Love you guys!!!!

A couple weeks ago I had worked hard to be able to make a trip out to Utah for my mission reunion (will report on that later) in Provo and I was lucky enough to be able to make it work and do some wedding shopping with Nicole also. My parents were heading over so I jumped in with them for a ride, my sister April and her oldest daughter Alyssa were also going to be there for the YW General Meeting in SLC and the shopping trip. It couldn't be a greater girls + Dad weekend! It was fabulous! I just love that family of mine! My fabulous husband willingly stayed home with the girls (so they didn't have to make the long drive in a short amount of time and survive shopping). Love him! I'm sure I saved him from a LOT of girl/wedding/shopping/sister talk. Or as my dad put it -"we didn't stop talking for 2 days"!! What can I say?? We have a lot to talk about...we all live in different states except my mom and myself! Lots of fun! Anyways...I love you Nicole and can't wait for the big day in July!!!

As for my wonderful mission reunion...it was so great to see some of the most amazing people I've ever known! In a short 18 months, these people had such an influence of good on me. They really helped me build a foundation of the gospel of Jesus Christ that I strive to build on every day of my life. It was amazing to see these people and though it's been over 10 years since I've seen some of them I could remember so much of their character and personality that I loved so long ago. It was fantastic catching up and visiting with them, especially my girlies!!! I sure love the companions of mine, they are the best a girl could ever hope for! Anyway, I'm a slacker and didn't get any pictures, but I did get some from a friends facebook (thanks Shill). It was a memorable weekend and I just wish Ryan (my most favorite person in the world) could have met some many of my other favorites! Next time! I'm so grateful for my mission and all the wonderful things it taught me and all the influential people it brought into my life!!

Just like the good ol' days when we had Zone Conference!

What a wonderful night!

Loving life with these girls!

2011-03-18T22:10:00.010-05:00

Action shot: the girls love singing...even in the basket.

Amelia loves playing outside. This girl cries every time the door opens unless she gets to go out and play. As you can see, there are lots of fun things to do out in the backyard we share with our wonderful neighbors!

Fun little outing at the park with Daddy. He makes every outing so much more fun!

Tree time.

AHHH!! I can't take it anymore!!!
I love this picture, she cracks me up!!

Our little reading girl. She loves to read to us now too, so sweet!

Our best buddies. The girls love to play with these boys!

Hanging out in the backyard.

Because She's One!

2011-02-16T20:22:00.007-06:00

Here are a few pictures of our precious Amelia. What a sweetheart she is!

Happy 1st Birthday Amelia!!

2011-01-23T23:46:00.014-06:00

HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY LITTLE ONE!

As always, I'm a little late to post...but at least it's here now. Our little Amelia had her 1st birthday on January 15th. I truly can't believe it's been a whole year that my little darling has been with us a year. She is surely a sweet, sweet baby girl.

A few things I'd like to remember about Amelia:

She started walking at 11 months, has 5 teeth, weighs 19 lbs., blue eyes, smiles a lot, loves to cuddle with mommy and daddy, adores her sister, loves climbing in and out of chairs, loves to play outside, jump on the trampoline, plays in and eats the dirt, learning baby signs (knows more, eat, please), says ah-oh, wow, mama, dadda, she is a very easy going personality, loves her bath and still splashes a ton, loves her bed, loves to eat all fruits but doesn't like vegetables, very smart and catches on quickly to new things, enjoys story time and music playgroup, loves to sit with daddy and play the piano, loves music and to dance, loves to read books and will sit for a long time by herself turning pages, is often found carrying purses, shoes, bags or baskets around, loves to push the baby doll stroller, loves to follow her big sister around and get into everything she doesn't want her to have. She is our little angel and each day is happier because she is in our life and family. Happy birthday sweet girl!

We had a little family birthday party for Amelia! I can't even tell you how wonderful it was to be here in Reno and have family to celebrate with us! What a blessing! We're so happy to be back!
Amelia loved the new toys, but mostly the attention from her cousins. She really enjoyed the frosting on her cupcake and we had a fun time! Thanks for all that came to celebrate!

Fun winter activities

2011-01-19T17:21:00.013-06:00

Still catching up from the last month. This was a while ago because we haven't seen any snow for a while and it's been really warm weather. BUT, when it did snow the girls loved going out in the snow and being pulled on the sled. Madi loved doing snow angels and eating the snow and Amelia loved being out there, even if she could barely move because of all her snow clothes. We're loving the winter here!

This is my cute Cole and her boyfriend Kip. We had so much fun with them, while they were here for Christmas break. I miss Nicole so much and it was great to get to meet Kip. My girls love their auntie and loved Kip too! Madi would constantly ask where he was when they were gone and Amelia flirted with him smiling and giggling to get his attention. Fun times, although sadly this was the only picture I got of them. Sorry guys...but thanks for doing the dishes! (:

These next few pictures were from a fun night at Nona's and Grandpa's! They made homemade taffy and let us all help at the end with the pulling or twisting it. The kids (OK the adults too) loved playing with the taffy and then getting to eat it was so much fun. We love it when we all get together. What great memories!!

Cutest little cousins! We hardly seen these little darlings when we're all there together. They just play their little hearts out! So much fun!

Moving and Christmas

2011-01-18T15:44:00.013-06:00

Well, it has been about 2 months since I've last posted. I feel that I have a pretty good excuse with the preparations and our move of over 2,000 miles from Mississippi to Reno. From the end of November to mid December I packed up our home while trying to entertain the kids. Unfortunately (for me), Ryan was unable to help much because he was in the middle of finals and gone all day and evenings except for a couple of hours for dinner. Not fun! I'm so glad we're at the end of that chapter. So I had all the packing part, but Ryan had all the heavy lifting and puzzling all our stuff into the PODS to move. Luckily our wonderful brother-in-law Chris flew out and helped us out a TON!!!! Not to mention Megan for staying home with their 3 kiddos on her own! We are so grateful for them and all their help. My mom also came out and saved us by watching the girls the last few days so I could get the rest of the packing done and Ryan could finish up all his school stuff as he'll be out of state for the last semester. Then my mom and I flew to Reno with the girls while Ryan and Chris drove our cars the 2,100 miles across the country. We're also so grateful for my mom coming out to help make the flight possible! I'm SOOO glad we didn't have to drive with the girls. That would have been miserable! So, I'm not sure which is the easier route, packing and flying with 2 little ones, or heavy lifting and driving across the country by yourself?? I guess I'm just grateful that we all made it safely to Reno as well as our belongings and we are settling right in to our new home.
We do miss our many friends back in Mississippi and our little home there, but we are extatic about being near family. It has been wonderful being able to see most everyone for holidays, birthdays, Sunday dinners, grandparent days and more!!! This is going to be so much fun. We are also settling into our routine with Ryan enjoying his internship with the District Attorney here in Reno and the girls and I joining a fun play group and library story time. Life is good and we are so grateful for all we have!

OK- Sorry for the long update (journaling purposes), but on to Christmas!!!
We stayed at my parents for the first 2 weeks we were here. We had a fabulous Christmas Eve celebration with the Gonda family complete with delicious food, great company, and the cutest darn nativity re-inactment I've ever seen. I'll have to try and get the pictures from that later (they're on Ryan's phone). Then Christmas morning was fabulous with my parents and Nicole home from BYU. The girls loved all their gifts and we had a fun and relaxing day playing with the new treasures.
Santa found us even amidst our "homelessness" at that moment. Funny how he can do that!

Big sister helping Amelia.

Sweet little Madi Lou

Amelia and the popper.

My Dad and Nicole with all the goods.

This may be the sweetest girl in all the world! She was so cute and kept saying "ooohhhh" at all the new toys.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

My heart is so full of love for this sweet family of mine! I just love them!!! These girls are such a gift to us and wow, look at that handsome husband of mine (sporting his goatee, which is much better than the beard). He is amazing and he's mine!! How did I ever get so lucky!!!

Madi was so precious. Ever since we saw the Nutcracker ballet live, she's loved all the nutcrackers around. One day a performance was on PBS and she sat and watched it while she held my mom's nutcracker and even fell asleep holding onto it! What a sweetheart!

Our little entertainer!

2010-11-16T15:20:00.004-06:00

For the past 9 months or so, Madalyn has been enamored with the movie Annie. She has finally moved passed asking to watch the movie everyday, but rarely a day goes by that she doesn't listen to the music. She loves it and will bust out in song (and hand motions) as soon as she hears it playing. She gets very serious about it and sings her little heart out. This girl cracks us up!! Watch out Broadway, here comes Madi!

Friends!!

2010-11-15T12:44:00.003-06:00

Early this month my sweet friend Vanessa (whom I met back at BYU) and her little girl Ellie came for a visit! It was so wonderful having her here! It had been four years since we'd seen each other, and oh how I'd missed her. We talked our heads off and had plenty to catch up on. She is an amazing person all around and it was so fun to see what a wonderful mother she is too! We didn't do a whole lot of entertaining while she was here, but it was great just to spend time together and meet one of her two sweet kiddos. Hopefully we'll be able to see each other again soon! Thanks for coming Vanessa! Sure love you!

Ellie and Amelia are just 2 months apart, I wished we lived closer. They were so sweet!

2010-10-31T22:52:00.012-05:00

Fun times in October!
We had many fun activities to welcome fall. Some I have pictures from and others I forgot the camera, sorry. We carved pumpkins one night and watch Charlie Brown and the Great Pumpkin. Madi loved doing the pumpkins and helped get out the seeds and then painted hers even after it was carved. Amelia loved tasting the raw pumpkin and gnawed on the pumpkin lid while we worked. One day our playgroup met at a park and the kids frosted and decorated pumpkin cookies. Madi had a blast and loved tasting the frosting as she went along and loaded up on sprinkles. We went to our story time at the library where the kids could dress up and then have a little costume parade. Since the beginning of October Madi had been talking about being a witch. My sister mailed us a little witch costume my Mom made many years ago and she was so excited. She wore that one for the library activity. But, after that she only wanted to be the gnome. I had found this little costume last season on clearance and she ended up loving it. So, for our fun ward Halloween Carnival that's what Madi dressed us as and Amelia was the little cow that wouldn't leave her ears on. Madi had a blast and loved playing the games and getting all the candy! Wow what a treat. She even won the costume contest and got an extra bag of toys. Ryan also made out at the ward party. They had a jello eating contest in which the winner had to eat a pie tin of jello the fastest. Ryan slurped up that jello in no time and left them all in the dust. He also received a bag of rewards! Now, that's talent! I'm so proud! Here in Mississippi they did trick or treating on Saturday night, so we met up with some friends of ours the Ritters and Whipples. The Whipples were kind enough to let us all tag along for a fun time of trick or treating. Madi did great and loved saying "trick or treat". Amelia was happy and content (like always) in the stroller. We made a pretty good size loop around the neighborhood, Madi wasn't too scared of some of the scarier costumes, but was pretty tired by the end of the night. Halloween is so much fun and Madi still prays about the pumpkin patch in every prayer, so I guess she really like that too!

Here's our little garden gnome!

Libby, Aubry, Allie, Ben, and Madi ready to start the trick or treating.

Cute little sisters.

Winner of the kid's costume contest: Madalyn Gonda...Garden Gnome!

Champion Jello Eater and little cow

Cupcake walk

Happy Birthday!! I had a wonderful birthday and my husband spoiled me! Breakfast that morning, then he came home early from school and watched the girls so I could go to an appointment and get a pedicure. Later my sweet friend Brigette watched the girls while Ryan took me out to a delicious dinner at Char. After picking up the girls, we came home for some yummy dessert that Ryan got as well as some tasty cupcakes from my friend April. I had lots of birthday wishes from family and friends. I couldn't ask for more! I'm am so very blessed and grateful for every year to be amongst such wonderful people! Life is beautiful!!

Madi helped me blow out my candles!

Amelia tasting "real" pumpkin!

2010-10-24T19:49:00.031-05:00

Happy Halloween!!!

Here are a few pictures of my darling girls. I took some pictures of Madi as a baby in this little outfit and thought I'd take some of Amelia too. Of course Madi had to go get her pumpkin shirt on too and get in on the action. Do you think they look alike?

Amelia at 9 months old

Madalyn at 2 1/2 yr old

Madalyn at 6 1/2 months

Madi and Ryan on their "Daddy Daughter Date". They went to the play Annie at the high school where a couple kids from our ward were acting in. She LOVED it! She LOVES Annie so we knew she would. Ryan said she was very attentive the whole first hour and then tapered off a little. She was scared of the loud clapping at first but soon adjusted and joined in. Also, she loved singing along with the songs and at the end of the play she was busting out in song to "Tomorrow" and the people in front of them turned around smiling. What a fun little evening they had together...many more to come!

PUMPKIN PATCH

We had a great afternoon last Saturday and met up with our friends at the pumpkin patch. Madi has been talking about it ever since and mentions it in EVERY prayer we have. I guess she had a good time! We sure love the Whipples and will miss them so very much when we move. They've been the best friends and Madi gets along so well with there little girls. They sure had a good time exploring at the pumpkin patch.

Cute girls...hard to get them all looking.

"Who's down there?"

"Who's up there?"

Pictures on the carriage.

Aubrey and Madi, such sweet little girls.

Allie, Madi and Aubry

Amelia taking a dip in the corn box. So fun!

Ever heard of a corn angel?

Wee... swinging from the trees. Madi loved this and didn't get long enough to play on this.

Pick a pumpkin!

Daddy and his girls.

Madi after petting the cow. Cool! We also saw other farm animals, even a Zedonk (sorry no picture)

Amelia playing in the hay.

tWaiting for our hay ride.

We made our annual visit to the Mississippi State Fair. This year Madi rode the ferris wheel with Ryan and loved it! She's pretty brave. She loved the petting zoo and fed all the animals. She didn't even hesitate. We also went a 2nd time with our play group and watched the circus. It's pretty good and Madi enjoyed the acrobats and tightrope walkers. Although I think she was most entertained by her little friend Aubry and dancing to the music. It's always interesting to see the what the fair brings in and amazes us with all the fried food. The new one that' we hadn't seen this year was the Krispy Kreme Donut Burger! Gross, that doesn't even sound good! Who eats that stuff??? Well, Mississippians do apparently! No thank you.

Feeding the llama.
For real?!

A few random pictures.

She's such a good little mother.

Amelia crawling

2010-10-06T23:01:00.002-05:00

2010-10-03T14:53:00.016-05:00

This past month has been both fun and challenging. It has been great to be back in Mississippi and in our own home again. It's been wonderful getting the girls back on a fairly consistent schedule and it's been so much fun to see our friends whom we missed so much. On the challenging side, for the past 6 weeks I babysat (I'm no longer doing this as of last Friday) a little 3 month old, four days a week from 10 am to 9:30 pm. It was a LOT of work to say the least. Some days were pretty good and I felt like I could do it, but others were really tough and I would break down and feel I couldn't do it another day. Anyone that has done any childcare in their home will understand. With two babies so close in age, I felt like I was constantly feeding and holding a baby (which I love most of the time, but I don't get anything done). I felt like my own girls were suffering because I couldn't give them as much attention as I normally do. My little Amelia would often struggle and get so sad when I held the other baby and poor Madi had to deal with less attention...again and we were very limited at leaving the house, not fair for them! As for myself, I felt like I NEVER had a break or moment to myself. I could never get all the kids down for a nap at the same time, so no break there and in the evening when I got my kids to bed I still had the other baby (awake) til 9:30 and by the time she left, I was so tired I just had to got to bed. Thankfully Ryan was home to help in the evenings (HUGE help) and often would home Tues/Thurs. a bit earlier and was my saving grace, but then he was sacrificing study/school time. A few thing were suffering from that and I also didn't feel so much like myself. So, all in all, I was glad to help out a family in our ward for a bit, I earned a little money, and I learned that I'd prefer not to do childcare in my home for an extended amount of time if at all possible.
So, after that long explanation of the past 6 weeks. We have done some fun things also and here are a few pictures from them. I sure love this sweet little family of mine and couldn't be more grateful for my precious girls and my amazing husband. Life is sweet!

I found these girls hiding in the toy cupboard after having taken all the toys out of the bottom shelf. I would peek in on them and they would both crack up! I love those moments when they actually play together and are both happy!

Our little Amelia seems to be hungry all the time. She LOVES fruit, but doesn't care for many vegetables. She also much prefers finger foods over the spoonfuls of strained baby food.

Those of you who know Ryan may know that he loves to bake. Two cute bakers with their little aprons on. Madi sure loves to spend time with her Daddy.

Ryan and Madalyn at the petting zoo while at a visit to the Jackson Zoo. It was way too hot that day, but luckily we have a pass, so we didn't feel obligated to stay long. We just hit what we could before we melted into a puddle. It has finally started cooling off (wonderful), but the heat lasted way to long for me!

National Carousel Day...half price that day!

While the babies were asleep...Madi and I had a little Teddy Bear Picnic. Madi was so cute and helped me make little honey and peanut better sandwiched, and get some other snacks ready. She loved pouring the water in the cups and was to focused on passing out all the food to her teddy bears or "ted bears" as she calls them. We read some books and sang some songs about teddy bears too. She loved it and I love her!

Amelia is growing and learning things so quickly. She started crawling, clapping, pulling herself up, and raises her arms up high when we cheer for her or when she hears music. She cracks me up. She is such a happy, easy going baby! I cannot get enough kisses, snuggles, and smiles from her!

Painting: she gets very serious about her work and she painted Popsicle sticks for a long time!

Lower the crib mattress...I can pull myself up!

Sprinkler area at the mall.

Amelia loves the water too!

Dad's the best and so much fun!

The sweetest girls in the world!

Madi loves to "be the baby". I can't seem to keep her out of the walker, swing, bouncer, and saucer thing. I know she's still adjusting...she is my baby too! Thankfully this weekend I was able to put most of these space hoggers in the garage because we don't have the little baby anymore and Amelia is past them.

The last of the Summer pictures

2010-09-26T21:49:00.011-05:00

Does it get any sweeter than this???
She sure makes my heart happy!
Staying cool with a little Slip n' Slide Action. love these little girlies.

Just a few picture from our 4th of July Celebration (I didn't take as many as I wanted). I love the 4th of July and I love being with my family. What a blessed county we live in.

Alyssa and Madi

The Family

Uncle Luke and Amelia

Aunt April and Amelia

Some of the kiddos playing with sidewalk chalk. My sister April and I (mostly April) came up with a bunch of fun games for the kids to do. They loved it and it kept them busy too!

Mom and Dad- What a wonderful summer we had with them!

Summer 2010 part 2

2010-09-05T18:25:00.026-05:00

Soaking up the sun at Lake Tahoe.

Cute Madi and Andi in the raft.

We took the kids out to some rocks that us "big kids" could jump off. Fun but, yes very cold water.

Always time for a little yoga...or whatever they're doing here on their heads.

Dress up time with Nona's fantastic dress ups! Pretty little princesses!

Camping Trip

Exploring the Yuba River while camping. We had such a great time climbing the big boulders around the river. Madi is so independent and didn't want to hold our hand while hopping around and it made us a little nervous. It was a beautiful evening in the outdoors.

It was great fun camping with Mark, Susy, Julie, Aimee, Todd, Heather and Beau with their family, and Megan and Chris and their family. We love camping, even if we could hear the freeway and the trains...(:

More good times in the back yard. These kiddos were so entertained in the back yard. Play set, sand box, trampoline, toys, bikes, Keva, and of course COUSINS!

These sweet girls had so much fun playing together. It was great to see their friendship develop and it was fantastic to have them entertain each other for so long.

I love this picture.
Cute little Thalia and Madi!

It's always fun when Aunt Amber is around! We all love her so much!

Tramp time

Amelia and Nona!
My wonderful mother-in-law took such great care of us while we stayed at their home. She's is so welcoming, hospitable, kind, and absolutely wonderful. We sure miss her!

Summer 2010 part 1

2010-08-22T20:14:00.043-05:00

Yes, I am finally attempting to update from our wonderful summer in Reno. We have lots of pictures and I'm a little shorter on time than usual (I'm babysitting a little 3 month old along with my two...ya I know CRAZY!), so it may take me a while, but I will get these posted.
Happy Summer!!

One of our many trips to Lake Tahoe! We LOVE that place and love being there with friends and family. Here is sweet little Sophie, and Amelia in the Moses basket trying to stay in the shade.Todd burying Madi in the sand. Good times!

Good times with the cousins and watching the captured crawdads in the water. This is always great entertainment for the kids.

Amelia's first taste of ice cream. Thanks Grandma Pam, she knows how to spoil those girls and they love her for it!

Family night at the drive-ins! It was perfect, we had both with Winegar cousins and the Gondas all there together. We saw Toy Story 3 and had a fun time with yummy snacks and snuggling up in the blankets. Madi had fun car hopping!

Kickin' it with the Odom girls! Madi loved playing with Alyssa, Emily, Sophie and Calli. More pictures from the week we spent with them will come later.

Our first family camp out was a success. We went up to Davis Creek and had a blast. It was so much fun and we can't wait to do more camping as a family. Both girls did great sleeping in the tent, which was a relief and we all loved being in the outdoors.

Madi loved the headlamps.

Our little Amelia trying out the rice cereal. I think this was her first go at it. It took her a while to get the hang of keeping it in her mouth. She was quite a mess each time we tried to feed her. Man, she's a cutie pie.

The girl's didn't need much to entertain them, just a little water in the wading pool and Madi was pretty happy. We spent the first 6 weeks at my parents and enjoyed spending time with Grandma and Papa!

Our little chubby monkey sporting her swimwear. She's such a happy little one.

This is the only picture I took on Father's Day, but I did get some video. Makayla and Todd helped the younger cousins do a little skit/presentation for the dads. They each chose something they loved about their dad and as a group acted it out. It was super cute. Madi said she loved how her dad plays tag or chases her. It's the truth...one of her favorite activities! Then they all sang "I'm So Glad When Daddy Comes Home". We sure love that crew!

Daddy and Amelia enjoying the scenic view of gorgeous Lake Tahoe.

Madi and Audrey were the best of buddies while Jeremy and Rebecca where in Reno for a while. They had so much fun together and Madi is still talking about her! We sure miss them, but LOVED having that special time for the kids to get to know each other better and play, play, play!

Good ol' Aunt Julie taking a turn babysitting all the kiddos! Isn't she fabulous! It's movie time!

Nothing is more fun than having your Dad jump, play, and wrestle on the tramp with you, except when your uncle joins in too!

These next two pictures are from the sampling we had of the new business Beau and Heather started up this summer called Bodawgs! They grilled us up their special hot dogs and boy were we surprised with a fantastic spread. Yummy! If you live in Reno you better not miss out! Go to the link above for details...but I'm telling you they're awesome! I guess I didn't take too many pictures cause I was enjoying my dog too much.

Here's sweet little Andi getting her fill!

Sweet faces, sweet girls. Sure love these little sweethearts of mine!

I love the thumb sucking...she doesn't do it anymore.

One night Ryan and I planned a little "Minute to Win" type activity night. We had fun, had some good laughs and did some silly things. Good times!

This was the one where you have to get the cookie from your forehead into your mouth without using any hands or help from anythings else.

Aunt Aimee is known as the baby holder! She loves to hold and cuddle them and they love her! It was so wonderful to have her around! She's so great with the kids.

We took a day trip to Sacramento with Chris and Megan and the kids to visit Fairytale Land and Ikea. We had lots of fun (after Madi recovered from her first round of car sickness just before we got onto the freeway...poor kid). We loved being able to get over to California and loved being with the Martinez Family. Madi sure loves Thalia and Mercedes. This was before little Julius joined them, and we love that little sweetheart just as much! That was one of the greatest parts of the summer...COUSINS!

We had a fun dinner out with the family to The Jazz Restaurant. A little taste of southern cookin' to remind us where we've been!

This was Grandpa Gonda's funeral. It was cold and windy that day, but we were sure glad we could be there and especially be with Grandma and the rest of the family.

Catching up for May

2010-06-05T00:18:00.003-05:00

WOW!!! Where did May go? I can't believe it's June already and yes, I haven't posted for a while, but what can I say I guess I'm having too much fun! I am going to apologize in advance about my blogging efforts for the next couple of months. While we are in Nevada I don't seem to make it to the computer half as often as I do when I'm at home, probably because I have more people to keep me company because we're staying with family! I like it...I much prefer to see them all in person!

I do want to record some of our adventures in May (this being our family journal and all), so I guess I'll give a quick recap on May and I'll have to post pics later because I can't download from my camera on this computer. This is your warning....lots of words, no pictures. Sorry!

I meant to post about Ryan's birthday back at the beginning of May and I missed that, but my handsome hunk of a husband turned 30!! We had fun celebrating with friends from law school at a little lunch, and with some friends from our ward for a little dessert night. Wanting to do something special for his 30th I got 30 gifts for him, some small, some big, some acts of service, and some tangible things. I made up a power point presentation for them and had all the gifts wrapped up. It took him a while to get through them all and I still owe him a few...but all in all it was a fun gift to give to my wonderful hubby. How grateful I am for the fantastic husband and father he is. I still find myself wondering how I got so lucky to have him! (By the way 30 is a lot of gifts to think of (:)

Next, Ryan finished his 2nd year of law school!!! Yeah!! Just one year left. He is a hard working student and still loves studying the law (he better), but he is getting excited to get out there and practice. I'm always to impressed at how he balances all he has to do with family, church, school, and work. He does it so well and this year was much less stressful than the first! Congrats baby!

We had a little change in plans mid May. Ryan's Grandpa Gonda passed away unexpectedly and we ended up bumping up our plans to head to Reno 2 weeks early. We are so glad everything worked out so smoothly with all the changes. We went from having 2 weeks to get ready to 2 days, but it all worked out. We were so grateful we could be here with all his family for the funeral. It was an incredible funeral for an incredible man! I can't tell you the peace and joy I felt after his funeral. He did so much good and although I only knew him for a short while, he made a positive influence in my life and has left a lasting legacy for so many he knew! This is one of those times that helps you really get a perspective on life! I feel so blessed to know about the plan of salvation. I know we will live after this life and that because of sacred ordinances in the holy temple we can be together again with our families too! We love you and will miss you Grandpa Gonda!

So, although we had to leave early, it's been wonderful to be here with our family. Oh how we missed them! Madi has had SOOOO much fun being here. She loves to have people around and absolutely loves playing at Nona and Grandpa Marks house. She can't get enough of her cousins Mercedes and Thalia and Uncle Todd. Not to mention we can hardly get her to come in the house, she always wants to be out playing on the trampoline, swings, sandbox, and playing with Keva the dog. The cooler weather hasn't even intimidated her. What fun to be here! It's been great to be with our parents and siblings. I feel like we've had extra time to spend with Chris and Megan and their girls and that has been wonderful. What a fantastic family! Now, Heather and Beau just moved back to Reno and we can't wait to spend more time with them too!

This is also the first time most of the family has met our little Amelia! She is also loving all the attention and is content being passed around by all who wants to hold our little, round, smiling, bundle of joy! She has been such good natured little baby. She still sleeps through the night from about 9:30 til 6 or 7 and then back to sleep for a few more hours. I wish I could say the same about Madi. New transitions don't sit well with her (not that's she's ever been that great of a sleeper). She puts up a fight most every night and nap time to go to sleep. We're pulling out about all the tricks in the book and it still takes that girl forever to go to sleep and often crying for a while too. AHH! That gets tiring and sad real quick...what can you do?!!?

I guess last of all, we're just happy to be here. Ryan has enjoyed his time off and so have I, but I think he's ready to start his externship on Monday. We are so grateful for our families housing us, feeding us, and taxiing us around or letting us borrow there cars. It's a lot to sacrifice for them, but we sure appreciate it. There's nothing like family and we sure love them!

Mothers

2010-05-10T15:44:00.008-05:00

My sweet Madalyn made me a little card in nursery on Sunday and the teachers included this sweet poem. I liked it. It made me not feel so bad for my home not being quite as orderly as I'd like. (:

Song for a Fifth Child

by Ruth Hulburt Hamilton

Mother, oh Mother, come shake out your cloth,
Empty the dustpan, poison the moth,
Hang out the washing and butter the bread,
Sew on a button and make up a bed.
Where is the mother whose house is so shocking?
She’s up in the nursery, blissfully rocking.

Oh, I’ve grown shiftless as Little Boy Blue
(Lullaby, rockaby, lullaby loo).
Dishes are waiting and bills are past due
(Pat-a-cake, darling, and peek, peekaboo).
The shopping’s not done and there’s nothing for stew
And out in the yard there’s a hullabaloo
But I’m playing Kanga and this is my Roo.
Look! Aren’t her eyes the most wonderful hue?
(Lullaby, rockaby, lullaby loo).

The cleaning and scrubbing will wait till tomorrow,
For children grow up, as I’ve learned to my sorrow.
So quiet down, cobwebs. Dust go to sleep.
I’m rocking my baby and babies don’t keep.

A few thoughts:
Being a Mom
I love being a mother. Although today's shopping trip sure tested this statement. (: Truly, I love being a mother. A life long dream turns out to be better than I could have imagined. Yes, it is challenging and can be frustrating and even discouraging sometimes, but all in all I haven't experienced anything greater than being a mother. I love watching my Madalyn dance at any sound of a beat, even the cell phone ring, and her sweet smile when she peeks out from her bed to see me, I even love when she thinks everything is a chasing game and multiple times a day runs around the car or the island gigling when I'm trying to get her like it's the funniest thing in the world. I love when she says "oh no!" in a very exsasperated voice even when something little happens like her spoon falls on the floor or her fingers are stuck in her pajama sleeve. Or when she tries a new food and takes a tiny taste and looks at me with a confirming look, tilting her head saying "mmmmm". I love when she wants to just snuggle by me and how she gives kisses with her tongue sticking partly out, she cracks me up and I love being her mother.

I don't know what it is lately, but I just can't get enough of my sweetheart Amelia. She brings such joy to my heart. I just can't describe what a perfect little baby she is. She just makes me so happy. From the moment she opens her eyes in the morning and I greet her with a "good morning" or if she even spots me peeking to see if she's awake she smiles the widest, sweetest grin that just melts my heart. I LOVE IT! I love how she holds onto my shirt when she's nursing and when she's looking up at me and can't contain her smile and dribbles milk all over both of us. She loves to be rocked and I love rocking and cuddling her. She truly is a sweet little angel sent from heaven! What a blessing and a privilege it is to be a mother, for that I am eternally grateful!

My Mother
It's hard to describe how amazing my mother is and all she means to me. But I wanted to jot down a few things I love about her. She is such a hard worker, at home at work or where ever she is she gives her all. She is so dedicated to her family, she will do anything for them. She drops everything to give all she can for her children and grandchildren. She is always sending little things in the mail for us, especially the girls and is always thinking of them! I love that she is always there for me, even if I call her 5 times a day. She listens and understands and ALWAYS makes everything better even from thousands of miles away. She is loving and kind, fun and intelligent, she is my friend and gives great advice and knows me so well, often knowing what I need before I do. I love you mom, thank you for all you are!
My Mother-In-Law
You know when you see someone and think..."Wow, she is a great mother! I think she's practically perfect". Well that's what I think about my mother-in-law and not only does she "look" like that she "acts" like it all the time. How grateful I am for such an understanding, kind hearted, soft spoken, patient, humble, charitable, sweet mother-in-law. She loves her family more than can be written. She gives her all, never complaining, always optimistic and is an example and friend I have been so blessed to have in my life! I look forward to getting to know her more and bask in her example and light. Thank you for not only raising a wonderful son, but for being my friend and example! I love you.

Hope ya'll had a very happy Mother's Day!

P.S. I have a few things to catch up on... I hope I'll get to it!

Amelia's Blessing Day

2010-04-14T17:20:00.015-05:00

Is there anything SWEETER than this little darling???? I think not! Amelia was blessed on Sunday the 11th. It was a special day and a tender blessing. She was calm and content and just as precious as could be. I sure love this little girl and we're so blessed and overjoyed to have her in our family!

CATFISH CAPITAL OF THE WORLD!!!
Yes, we went and visited Belzoni, Mississippi and attended the Catfish Festival.
We had a good time with our friends the Whipples and ate some good catfish! It was a nice "southern" experience with crafts, bands, and a little kids corner that Madi enjoyed as she went down the blow-up slide and got a balloon from the clown. It was beautiful weather and a fun little day trip.

Yes, that is a catfish! They had them all over (painted with different themes).

Check out the catfish fountain in the background.

And again...here's Captain Catfish. Who would've known there were so many catfish?

Easter

2010-04-10T22:27:00.008-05:00

My little darlings!

Daddy and Amelia

This is Madi and one of her best buds April helping her make her bunny ears!

Easter egg hunt at the church. They searched for the eggs out in a field behind the church and we didn't get any good pictures. Sorry. But Madi was so excited and loved finding eggs to put in her basket and even more excited when she discovered they were filled with candy!

Isn't she the sweetest!?!! I could just eat her up!

Madalyn is 2!

2010-04-10T20:49:00.011-05:00

I CANNOT believe my baby girl is 2 years old!!

From this...
To this...

To this!

Happy birthday Madi Lou! You are our little sweetheart! We love, love, love you!

Daddy to the rescue! So Madi wasn't so excited about the candles on the cake. They totally scared her and she was quite upset (see video below). She's seen a few candles before and was fine. But it was a little too much for her I guess. Poor little thing...I couldn't help but laugh a little. She recovered quick with some cake and chocolate ice cream.

The goods

Thanks Nona for Mr. Potato Head!

Catching up

2010-04-07T17:08:00.007-05:00

I didn't do very well at taking many pictures, but here are a few. A few weeks ago we went down to the Baton Rouge temple with some friends. We had a great time! Madi loves her little friends.

Swimming at the pool was a highlight for Madi...and Ryan too!

Random pic: Madi in her rain boots! Thanks Grandma Pam!

Spring Break

2010-03-21T22:37:00.022-05:00

It has been a wonderful week. Ryan had spring break and we did a few fun things as a family around here. I love having Ryan around more. We're so excited for the beautiful weather (although today was quite cold). I LOVE spring!! The flowers are blooming, the weather is warm, that means...playing outside a lot, more park time, walks, and last week flying kites and the zoo! Also, our sweet Amelia is wonderful! She's growing and is now 10 lbs 14 oz! She's growing like a ....BABY! We sure love this sweetheart! She is a really great baby!

Popcorn popping...

Madi had so much fun climbing our tree in the front yard!

Kite flying at the Reservoir...it was a perfect day!

The greatest Dad!

Madi had a great time flying the Dora kite...even though she doesn't know who Dora is.

Time to feed the ducks...and the geese.

She is so darn cute! I loved all the wild flowers too.

I just love to kiss that little face!

Just a few pictures from the Jackson Zoo!

Amelia's first time at the Zoo.

Big eyes!

My Girls!

2010-03-09T21:04:00.005-06:00

Here are a few pictures of the sweetest girls in the world! LOVE THEM!!

Madi has the sweetest little voice! She's a crack up too! (No the homemade play dough is not brown...it's purple I promise!)

Cousins and more Amelia

2010-03-02T21:26:00.014-06:00

I'm finally posting some pictures from when my sister and her two youngest girls came to help out when Amelia was born. Madi had so much fun with her cousins and I was sooooo incredibly grateful for all the help my sister gave me! I miss her so much. The hardest thing about getting to visit with those you love is that then I miss them that much more when they leave! (tear, tear)!

Here are the girls busy singing and playing their instruments.

Movie time in bed...so lucky!

Here are a bunch of pictures of our sweet Amelia!
BIG yawn!

Bath time on the counter. I had many helping hands...it was quite a show!

Madalyn LOVES to give her sister kisses!!!

My sweet nieces Sophie and Calli! I sure love them!

The greatest sister EVER! How did I get so lucky? I can only hope that my two girls will have such a great relationship like my sister and I have!

I loved this one with both Amelia's and Madi's mouths wide open! HeHe!

Valentines, SNOW and Dress-ups

2010-02-14T21:48:00.018-06:00

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!Making Valentines for Daddy.Dressing up is SO much fun!

SNOW IN MISSISSIPPI!!!

This is the most snow Mississippi has seen in a LONG time! It was BEAUTIFUL!! We had so much fun playing in the snow! Even I got out there...I couldn't resist, although I may have overdone it a little, I was hurting a bit later that day. It was worth it!

We weren't really prepared with snow clothes for Madalyn...we didn't think we'd need any here. We had to improvise and yes that is duct tape on her shoes. Hey it worked!

Madi had to have a few bites before the carrot made it to the snowman.

Once there was a snowman...snowman...snowman...

It was cracking me up. Throughout the day was saw multiple people stop and pull over or stop from walking to look at the snowman. This one older couple even took a picture! Too funny!!

Our little sweetie pie!

I can't believe she's 4 weeks already! It's going way to fast and she is a GREAT baby!

Ready to play outside!

So fun to play dress-up!

Isn't she the cutest!!!

SO much to say!

2010-02-03T13:58:00.017-06:00

Sweet little fingers

Love these sweet sisters!

LOVE HER!!!

I feel like I have so much to catch up on since my little Amelia was born. I'll try to touch on most of them for my own journaling mostly, but also for my few readers if you're interested.

To start off...I LOVE MY LITTLE AMELIA!!! I can't express how much I love my little girl and how I adore new born babies. I love just looking at her, holding her, feeding her, kissing, and hugging her. She is a doll and I just can't get enough of her! There is something so incredibly precious and spiritual about these little babies so new to this world. Each day when I find a minute to think, I can't help but feel so humbled to be a mother and love each moment I've been given. I'm trying to treasure each moment because time is already flying by. How grateful and blessed I feel to have this little one in my home! She is a sweetheart and is eating and growing so well. This experience has been so much easier than having a premature baby in the NICU. I'm so grateful for both my girls!

Next, all the adjustments for my sweet Madalyn. She is such a funny little girl. She is really loving her new baby sister. She has been quite sweet with Amelia and often reaches to hold her, kiss her, and pat her head. She runs into our room looking for her in her bassinet and has gotten used to any crying and noises she makes. At first the crying freaked her out, especially at night (there were a few rough ones), but she's done much better now. I love how Madi is still observing and taking it all in as she looks at Amelia and tries to understand what this new little baby is all about. Madi has had a few more tantrums than normal and has started hitting some too. Not a fun phase and today was the first time she reached out to smack Amelia. She got her once, little stinker, but it didn't phase Amelia...good thing babies are so resilient! We'll be working on that. It sure is a lot for a little girl to take in with all these changes. I'm so proud of her for doing so well with things. She's still my baby too!

Next, I would be so ungrateful if I didn't send a GREAT BIG THANK YOU to my Mom, Dad, and sister April for coming all the way out to Mississippi to help us out. My mom came for 2 whole weeks and my dad for 5 days. April and her two youngest girls came out for a week also. They were life savers! It was such a relief to have them here to help with meals, cleaning, company, and especially for Madi. This recovery from a c-section has been more challenging for me in that I'm not supposed to pick up anything heavier than the baby for 6 WEEKS!! That's a long time to not pick up my little Madalyn and along with all the changes for her, it has been really hard for me not to be able to do that. Also, I don't really know how to go out anywhere because I can't pick her up. I could do the baby in the front pack and hold Madi's hand, but even to go grocery shopping and putting her in the cart or whatever presents a big of a challenge. We'll see if I dare do it on my own in the next few weeks until I can lift again. Thankfully she had grandma, grandpa, Aunt April and her cousins Sophie and Calli to entertain her and take her places for a while! It was so wonderful to have them all here. How truly blessed I am to have such a wonderful, supportive family. You guys are the BEST!! Thanks a million for all the sacrifice of time, money, sleep, and more to come and help us! You mean the world to me!

So, not only am I recovering from the c-section, but a little more than a week ago I started with a fever and my incision was red and leaking a little. Of course I called the doctor right away scared of infection. They told me to clean it with peroxide and and watch it, by the next afternoon it was worse (and to spare you with the disgusting details) I called again and went into the doctor. Sure enough it was infected leaving a hole in the incision. It is pretty nasty and oozing gross stuff. But I got on an antibiotic and Ryan gets to be my nurse and pack the hole 2 times a day with gauze. It does hurt some, but not bad cause I guess the nerve endings were cut in the surgery, but I definitely feel it when I move around more and am up and down playing with Madi. Luckily my sister was here for a few days after I got the infection to continue helping me, but after she left I was a bit worried about how I was to do it all (mostly take care of Madi) on my own. That is were my wonderful friends from my ward stepped in just like family!! I am so grateful for them. They've been bringing in meals and some friends picking up Madi to play at their house so I can rest more and give Madi a break from the house! They are truly fabulous and my heart is humbled by their generosity and service for all they do. One of the hardest things about being so far from family is not having them near when you really need help, but my wonderful friends are my family away from home! THANK YOU!!!

Friday I had another doctor's appointment and the incision is looking much better. Ryan still has to pack it for me until is closes (maybe a couple more weeks) but it is healing and I'm so glad. Hopefully I'm on the easier part of the road to recovery than the first three weeks have been.

Last of all, I would be really ungrateful if I didn't give a shout out to my Ryan!! He has been incredible through all of this. He's been right by my side and also running back and forth to rescue and comfort Madi, take me to what seems like a million doctor's appointments and pick up what I can't do around the house, which has been a lot! And amidst all of this, he's started a new semester and been working part time at a law firm. I don't know how he's balanced it all. But he's my HERO! Thanks babe for everything! I couldn't do it without you!
I love, love, love you!

Mom and Dad at the Cypress Swamp

Grandpa teaching Madi the art of throwing rocks in the water. So much fun they couldn't get her away from it. Simple things are so much fun!

Welcome home Amelia!!!

2010-01-19T13:19:00.003-06:00

Bundle of JOY!!!!!

2010-01-16T21:04:00.003-06:00

We are so very happy to welcome our little Amelia Marlene Gonda into this world! She was born yesterday, January 15, 2010 at 12:18 pm. I had a scheduled C-section and everything went very well. She is so incredibly precious and beautiful and healthy! What a miracle this little baby is. We just love her!! She weighed 7 lbs 6 oz. and 19 1/4 in. long. It has been a wonderful experience having her room in with me at the hospital and she is eating and sleeping like a champ. I just can't hold her, hug her, and look at her enough. She also has a very proud Daddy who loves his little girl. He never ceases to amaze me at his gentle way with little ones, she's one lucky girl to have Ryan as her Daddy! Also, a very happy and perhaps perplexed BIG sister has welcomed Amelia here! Madalyn was so sweet with her, giving kisses and pointing at her as she explored the hospital room. Does life get any better than this? We feel so incredibly blessed to bring this sweet baby into this world and to be able to be her parents. She is straight from heaven and I pray we will be the best parents we can be for this perfect little child!

I'll try and get pictures posted in a few days!

A Visit to Santa

2010-01-11T15:08:00.006-06:00

We thought we'd give Santa a visit this year and headed down to the mall with Madalyn. On a whole Madi is a very friendly girl. She isn't afraid of new people and will go to most people. She gives great, big, running with her arms open hugs to people at church and we've been so lucky that she she never cries when we leave her at nursery or to be babysat. It's been so nice! BUT... Santa was another story. Of course we had to wait in line and the whole time we'd ask her if she wanted to sit on Santa's lap, she'd answer with a nod. She watched him carefully and was very interested, but as Ryan took her up there she didn't want a thing to do with him. So, sorry no cute Santa pics, but I found it kind of funny to see her that way, just because we rarely see that. Maybe next time Santa!

Not so excited waiting in line.

Holding on to Daddy for dear life.

"Get me out of here!"
Santa seems pretty content...guess he's seen this before.

Nothing like her favorite BUS to bring a smile to her sweet little face. I love this age, she doesn't even need money for these little rides. Just hanging out is too much fun!

Thanksgiving

2010-01-06T18:57:00.009-06:00

OK, I know I'm way behind. I'll try to catch up on the holidays because this little one inside me is scheduled to come next week and then I'll probably never catch up.

So here's a few pics from our Thanksgiving.Peek-a-Boo! I just LOVE this little girl! One of her favorite games is hide and seek. Closet, blankets, rooms, or even under Daddy's legs...whatever works.

My bestest friend Kyla came from Arizona for Thanksgiving! She's the BEST and it was so wonderful to see her. Here we are walking around this cute little town of Canton. They put up some fun lights around the city center. It wasn't quite dark when we were there, but we got our first taste of the Christmas season and went in some fun little shops.

The love of my life! How did I ever get so lucky to have him? He's the greatest!

Very pregnant...8 months along.

These two are the cutest together! Madi sure loves her Daddy and he is very wrapped around her little finger! They just bring me such JOY!

Love you Kyla! What would we do without friends?!! She sure brightened up my week with her visit and I just love her more and more each time I'm around her!

Our beautiful tree in our front yard. It lost all the leaves in mid December. Seasons are a little different here in the south. (: Just a little longer to enjoy the beautiful colors.

Some of her Favorite Things

2009-11-22T21:04:00.010-06:00

I was thinking about some of the many things Madalyn has been learning and doing lately. I thought I'd record a few things so I don't forget them.

Some of her favorite things:

Dancing to any and all music or none at all
Singing songs (well doing the actions while we sing)- Itsy Bitsy Spider, Monkeys jumping on the Bed, Popcorn Popping, I'm so Glad when Daddy Comes Home, 5 Little Ducks,
Teddy bear-her new best friend
Playing hide and seek-She loves to hide under her crib-not the easiest place for preggo Mommy to reach her.
Running from Mom or Dad for any reason- she thinks any time we go to get her (diaper change, getting dressed, eating, leaving, etc.) it's time for her to run and for Mom or Dad to chase her.
Anything outside
Tunnel slide at the park
Reading-She's very particular at what books she want me to read to her-she'll swat the book away if it's not the one she wants. (:
Bath time-She would take 3 or more baths a day if I'd let her.
Dice-carrying in her bucket, stacking, sorting, spreading all over the floor
TV- PBS, Sesame Street, Curious George, Dinosaur Train, Barney
Playing in the rain
Watching for the school bus
Building forts with Dad
Hugs-She opens those arms wide and will run to a few of her favorite people!
Socializing-especially with big kids

This is the new teddy bear who has become her best friend. She's so cute with him and it has lasted over a week. Much longer than I thought. She loves to sit him at her little table and last night she was giving him drinks from the water bottle and pretending to feed him with her spoon. Too cute! She's also always giving him kisses. She's such a sweetheart! It makes me think (or hope) that she's ready for a little sister! Just 8 more weeks!!

One of the many forts Dad has built for her! He's so much fun!

Hiding the the entertainment center!

2009-11-15T16:57:00.004-06:00

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland gave a powerful talk entitled Safety for the Soul about the truthfulness of the Book of Mormon. This week as I have pondered on this message and also as we had a friend of Ryan's from school over to listen to the missionaries, I have felt the Spirit reiterate to my heart and mind that the Book of Mormon is TRUE! I know I often take for granted the incredible blessing it is to know the truth about God's plan for us here on Earth. I know that the message of the Book of Mormon is to testify of Christ and come closer to Him through reading it. I know that, because it happens each time I put a heart felt effort into reading and learning from it. It brings guidance, peace, understanding and inspiration to me personally. The Book of Mormon has an interesting history and the truthfulness of it has been challenged. This is how Elder Holland put it:

"For 179 years this book has been examined and attacked, denied and deconstructed, targeted and torn apart like perhaps no other book in modern religious history—perhaps like no other book in any religious history. And still it stands. Failed theories about its origins have been born and parroted and have died—from Ethan Smith to Solomon Spaulding to deranged paranoid to cunning genius. None of these frankly pathetic answers for this book has ever withstood examination because there is no other answer than the one Joseph gave as its young unlearned translator. In this I stand with my own great-grandfather, who said simply enough, “No wicked man could write such a book as this; and no good man would write it, unless it were true and he were commanded of God to do so.”

I testify of it's truthfulness and thank God for the blessing of another testament of Jesus Christ!

Playing in the leaves!

2009-11-11T18:17:00.007-06:00

Madi loves crunching around in the leaves. We've had beautiful weather in the low 70's and it has been so much fun being outside! We LOVE fall!

Letting Madi help in the kitchen is way more work than by myself, but very entertaining. We were making homemade egg noodles and I have to admit I had to take a deep breath and endure her helping as she kept wiping flour off the counter and throwing dough on the floor. I think she had a good time and I guess that's what matters....sometimes!

A Happy Halloween!

2009-11-02T12:34:00.014-06:00

Ward Trunk or TreatDaddy and his little pumpkin. Madi is becoming quite the daddy's girl! It's so sweet, she just loves him and so do I!

Chili anyone? Ya, sorry-no costume.

Madi loved watching the other kids and was intrigued and sometimes confused by all that was going on. I think this was the most common look on her face during the evening.
She was such a cute little pumpkin!

Here is Madi and her little friend Eyore! They are too cute together!

Time to carve Madalyn's pumpkin

As you can see-she was having a great time.

Halloween Parade at the Library

At the library during story time they had the kids come dressed up and then did a little parade after the puppet show. Madi loves story time and was so cute in her little costume.

Here are some of Madi's friends from the ward walking around the library in the "Halloween Parade". They each got one piece of candy and Madi was thrilled!

Miss Lizzy is the children's librarian and does a fantastic job with story time, singing, musical instruments, puppet shows and more! It's a fun outing each week!

The Joy of Work

2009-11-02T12:08:00.004-06:00

For about the past month I've had a goal of adding something else to my blog. Since this is a record/journal for our family, I've been wanting to add a little bit of a spiritual side to it. For me, an opportunity to record my testimony and experiences in the gospel. For the past two years Ryan and I have focused on a talk for Family Home Evening from the most recent General Conference (messages from our Prophet, Apostles, and other leaders). So to start I'd like to just give a quick comment on the talk we chose for this week.

President Uchtdorf's talk Two Principals for Any Economy was inspiring and motivating. He spoke about work and learning being a solution for all in what may be a difficult economic time for some. I loved this quote:

"Work is an antidote for anxiety, an ointment for sorrow, and a doorway to possibility. Whatever our circumstances in life, my dear brethren, let us do the best we can and cultivate a reputation for excellence in all that we do. Let us set our minds and bodies to the glorious opportunity for work that each new day presents."

What a blessing it is to work! With a balance of all things, good comes from hard work! I love the way it makes me feel when I can accomplish things and contribute. I'm certainly grateful for parents and grandparents that have taught me and continue to to set an example of hard work. This has been an important and emphasized principle taught and lived in my home that I will be forever grateful for. It is also a characteristic I love in my husband. Even when it's hard for me to have him away studying and in class as much as he is, I'm so grateful for his work ethic and willingness to put forth the effort to better our own family situation. I find it a little more challenging to identify my "work" at home as compared to going to a job. But, I know raising children, keeping a home, and serving in the church and community all count as "work". What a blessing to be able to work and learn as we go!

Unexpected Visitor

2009-10-27T12:38:00.002-05:00

Late last night while I was fast asleep in my bed Ryan heard some rustling noises out in our front bushes. Not being sure what it was he listened for a couple minutes and it continued. He looked out the window and couldn't see anyone or anything but was a little worried about what it could be. He turned on a few lights and continued to watch out our door window but still couldn't see anything, just heard a lot of rustling. He continued to watch and finally he saw something come out of the bushes and waddle down the driveway. Any guesses what is was???? I couldn't guess it...It was an ARMADILLO! Kind of crazy, but I wish he could have gotten a picture of it. I'd love to see the little guy. I'll have to keep my eyes out for them, I've never seen one in our neighborhood! How fun!

GRATITUDE!!!!

2009-10-19T21:25:00.006-05:00

We couldn't be more happy, grateful, relieved, excited, and blessed to know that we will be welcoming a precious little GIRL into our family come January!!!!!

HOORAY!!!

We had a great visit with the doctor today (finally) and heard the blessed heartbeat and saw fantastic pictures from the ultrasound of our healthy, little, baby girl!!!

I am one happy Mama tonight!!!!!

BRING ON THE GIRLS!!!
Here are just a few (yes there are 7 more from the Gonda side) of the beautiful girls in our family that our lucky little girl gets to join!
(Sorry I don't have pics of all the girls together...you get the idea!)
Go Gonda Girls!

Whoohoo for the Winegar Women!

Warning: My reality of pregnancy!

2009-10-19T21:09:00.005-05:00

I have felt bad about not blogging much about this pregnancy and have gone back and forth about journaling something. It has been a very emotional pregnancy and I’ve had a rough go and didn’t want to just complain about it, nor did I want to admit some of the challenges, but after talking to a friend she encouraged me to write a little and give a sense of reality to it all as well as wanting to record this for my own journaling purposes. Hence one of the purposes of this blog. So…here’s to a little of my REALITY!!

First off: I have been and continue to be very nauseated from about week 6 or 7 with lots of vomiting (I’ll spare you the details) until I got on medication. This helps with the vomiting, not so much with the nausea. But I’ll take it because something is better than nothing! All the other bodily changes and challenges of pregnancy that I experience seem minimal to me compared to the constant nausea! I was so blessed to be at my parent’s place this summer and had lots of help with Madi because I was on the couch or in my bed for much of June and July. I really feel for anyone that has a terminal illness or chronic pain because it certainly wears on you! There have been lots of ups and downs for me! It gets very depressing staying home most of the time, not being able to exercise, go out much, not being able to care for my family and home the way I’d like to and not being able to enjoy much of anything even when I do go out because I feel so miserable. I have often felt like a bad mother and a bad wife not being able to do those things that I WANT to do and feel I should be doing. Ya! Ya! I know pretty rough right? Poor, poor, pitiful me! I have about 13 weeks to go...I know I should be learning something from all of this!

Now, here’s another reason I feel bad about writing this, I know there are others who have it MUCH worse than I do and would never complain (bless their little hearts!) and I do feel blessed that I’m not quite as sick as I was in the beginning. I can get out of bed and I can function in a somewhat normal way (partly out of necessity but also because I am capable). I guess I’m just a wimp. It could ALWAYS be worse! I tell that to myself OFTEN!!!

The other very difficult aspect of this pregnancy has been our struggle with getting into a doctor. I’ll spare the details of it all, but not for lack of trying, we’ve had a VERY long wait with insurance problems and other things that have just not been on our side. This has been SO hard for me because even with regular prenatal care I worry too much, but without it has been extremely worrisome. I’ve had many breakdowns feeling like an irresponsible, unprepared and horrible mother. I’ve worried about everything I could. The reassurances have been: an active little baby, no pain or bleeding, and continued sickness (perhaps the only positive to being sick), as well as sweet Priesthood blessings from my dear husband that have really given me peace and comfort. So there, you have it. I guess I just don’t make a very great pregnant woman or as my mother once put it “your just not a baby maker”. Bless my husband for putting up with me!! And anyone else that’s been around me much. But what else can I do when want those sweet little babies!! I know it’s worth it and I WILL survive!! Oh blessed pregnancy!

The State Fair and more!

2009-10-19T20:21:00.009-05:00

Mississippi State Fair...for the 2nd time!

We had a fun little family outing at the fair. We ate some disgusting, overpriced, fair food, watched lots of interesting people and were mostly entertained by Madalyn's reactions to rides, music, animals and games. It's a lot to take in for a little girl. Yeah for the petting zoo!

Madi loves the animals!

The sheep was her favorite to pet.

Madi loves to help and loves to follow Daddy out EVERY morning to say goodbye to him. She is often in her pajamas but MUST go out for her routine "goodbye" and if he tries to sneak out without her it is a sad sight. So...yes we go out in our PJs and shes and wave goodbye, blow kisses and wait for the honk! She sure loves her Daddy!

"Do what I say, not what I do"

How do you teach a child NOT to write on their face when she watches me put makeup on most days???? I can't get upset with her? This was eyeliner and came off easily thank goodness.

Once Madi discovered she could get out of the stroller, she of course didn't want to get back in. So, as she strolled down the street she heard some music and couldn't stop those feet! She's our little dancing queen and LOVES music and dancing. She just started dancing and finished out the song and she walked down the street. She had quite the following by the end of people stopping, pointing and watch her boogey! She is SOOO much fun!!!!

Our happy home!

2009-10-02T13:11:00.013-05:00

Finally a few pictures and videos from here in Mississippi. We are pretty settled in our cute little home that we are renting. It is such a blessing to be in a house with a fun yard, nice neighborhood, and more space. We are sure loving it all! Not to mention our sweet little Madalyn. She is growing and learning so much every day. She sure entertains us and keeps us on our toes! We love, love, love her!

Our happy helper!Playing in the rain

Take time to stop and smell the flowers!

Our giant backyard...we're loving it.

Our cute little house! It makes me so happy!

Madi loves to "write", color, and put stickers all over.

Never enough story time!

Video 1: Madi has been so entertaining. She isn't saying many words, but she loves to "talk" in her own little jabbering language. Here she is telling Ryan all about something. She also uses her hands to tell lots of stories. So cute.

Video 2: This is Madi doing her "funny faces". We had been making some silly faces for a bit and then I found this little book at the library and she loved it. "Surprise" is her favorite...as you can see!

Harvest Time

2009-09-27T19:38:00.006-05:00

Grandpa and his girls!Again we were blessed with sharing in the harvest of all my parent's hard work with their garden! This day the girls LOVED helping grandpa pick corn and tomatoes and dig up potatoes. We ALL also enjoyed eating the goods of course! Nothing quite like home grown fruits and vegetables.

Calli and Madi washing up there food. They both loved eating the corn raw and using the hose.

Thanks Mom and Dad for a wonderful summer! We sure love and miss you and all of our family so far away!

I think this is finally the last of the summer pics. I wanted to catch up since this is a type of journal for us. Goodbye summer! Welcome fall!

Girly Girls!

2009-09-27T16:34:00.007-05:00

The Family is of God
OK...so I have a new favorite song in Primary. The kids have been learning it all summer and I heard it last week for the first time. I have to admit it brought tears to my eyes as those precious little primary kids sang (and screamed) this beautiful song. (Yes, I am pregnant and perhaps a little more emotional than normal...or am I??) The truth of it's words touched my heart and these pictures reminded me of it again. I'm so grateful God and for Him giving me my family! There's a link to the words and music with the title if you don't know it.
I just love these girls so much! We had such a fun visit with my sisters and nieces. Yes, we have a majority of girls in our family and we love it! Nicole gave us all a pedicure and we had lots of fun catching up on all the details of our life. There is nothing like a sister! I've been blessed with such a wonderful mother and she's been such an example for good for myself and my sisters! Life is good!

Aunt Nicole and the girlies!

Summer in the Sierras

2009-09-21T17:36:00.008-05:00

The 2009 summer hike was in the Desolation Wilderness area, camping at American Lake for three days. This is the group at the Echo Lakes Trailhead (left to right): Dad, Jeremy, Chris, Brent and Ryan. Of course we all looked refreshed and ready, little did I know...

We hiked for about five miles the first day and then found a campsite just below Pyramid Peak on the shores of beautiful American Lake. In case you are wondering, most of Desolation Wilderness is exposed granite, with occasional foliage, hence the bare-looking mountain. We basically had the lake to ourselves, so it was a good campsite. Aloha Lake, not pictured, was just North of this lake. The water, although snow fed, was not too cold and made for a perfect swimming spot after hiking. At times it was too quiet. After being in the busy world for so long I found it hard to just sit and relax with no TV or computer to pass the time. Once I got used to the quiet it became enjoyable.

On our second day we attacked Pyramid Peak. I quickly realized that I was not in prime hiking condition, but I made it to the top with a little encouragement from the rest of the group. It was my second time on Pyramid Peak but because I was going relatively slower I noticed some details. Although the peak looks barren there are many ponds and waterfalls coming from the snow fields. It is amazing to see wildflowers and even an endangered species of frog at such high altitudes. At the peak the view is amazing. The scattered lakes behind the group photo are Aloha Lakes. If you look real close behind the most prominent ridge to the right you can see the south shore of Lake Tahoe. That should give you some bearing as to our location.

After we finished the hike I had to take a picture of the mountain I conquered, for the second time. If you are wondering, we ascended the peak on the far left ridge. We descended on the right face, just skirting the large snowfield in the bowl. We spent one more night at American Lake, even enduring a few summer storms.

Overall, it was a great trip and good bonding experience with the boys. Maybe next summer I will be in better shape. The boys are probably all laughing right now...but I still had a great time in my beautiful mountains. For now I will keep these pictures as my motivation to finish school so I can go back and spend more time in God's country.

Back to the 4th of July (still catching up)

2009-09-21T17:25:00.005-05:00

You're a Grand Old FlagMadi loved waving the flags while we sang patriotic songs with her. Too cute.

We made our way up to Tahoe for the day before the 4th and it was still very crowded. We found a new little beach and had a beautiful day as a family.

Fun Times with the Family

2009-09-18T15:13:00.009-05:00

Pool Time With the CousinsMadi sure had fun with her cousins. A little towel time wth Thalia, Mercedes, Luke, and Madi. I think they spent more time outside of the pool than in. (: Thanks for letting us come to your pool Megan.

More Lake Tahoe!! We just can't get enough!

Madalyn and Todd going for a ride. Madi wasn't so sure about that.

Take me Out to the ball game!We had a fun night with Ryan's family at the Reno Ace's Game. Susy was prepared with Peanuts and Cracker Jacks for everyone! She's so wonderful!

We made the drive to visit Ryan in Carson City (where he interned all summer). We had a fun time with Megan and her girls, Susy, Amy and Todd. It was great to see Ryan and have a yummy lunch. It was also one of the few days that I felt pretty good and could actually get out of the house. Thank goodness for a few good days that got me through.

Ryan really enjoyed his internship at the Attorney General's Office. It was great for him to be able to put into practice all he'd been learning and get out into the legal field. We didn't love him commuting so much because then we had less time with him, but we were sure grateful he had that opportunity.

We had a nice lunch on the beautiful grounds of the Capital Building.

Cherries! Cherries! Cherries!

2009-09-12T19:39:00.015-05:00

What a beautiful harvest of cherries!We were lucky to be at my parents for a great year with the cherries! Thanks mom and dad for sharing all the goods! Madalyn had a great time helping out with the whole cherry picking process. She didn't care if the cherries were from the tree or the ground and didn't seem hindered by the pits either.

Grandpa (Dad) picking away! He spent many hours up in that tree just to share the wealth!

Ryan helped out some too!

Time to wash and sort! Madi was glad to help here too.

She sure LOVED being with her Grandpa all summer. He let her help with the cherries, garden and yard every day! One lucky girl!

Lots and lots of cherries!

Grandma sorting and bagging.

Finding more cherries on the grass.

Summer fun in the little pool and with Daddy.

Our Trip to Monterey

2009-09-06T18:00:00.013-05:00

My little sister Nicole came home for the weekend and we had a great trip with my family to Monterey, CA.

Madi was not so excited about this man trying to put this bird on her arm.

She sure did love the pigeons and chased them for quite a while.

The Monterey Aquarium is so cool. They had some great activities for kids to interact with and move around, even for Madi's age. Here she is coming out of the whale blubber!

Sardines!

Penguin Time!

Bouncing on the water bed like jumping area! This one entertained her for quite a while.

Fun times with the Winegars. Thanks Mom and Dad for a great trip.

Sisters! I sure love this girl!

Snack time. I don't know who's worse and needed a snack, Madi or me. Luckily on the trip I wasn't too sick. I was able to do the aquarium but was punished later that night from pushing it too much that day. Love that pregnancy sickness!

Inquisitive minds! I love this picture.

Beginning of the summer

2009-09-02T16:56:00.004-05:00

FUN TIMES AT
GRANDMA AND GRANDPA WINEGAR'S HOUSEMadi loved pulling her little dog around the house most of the summer. She also LOVED Grandma to pull it and would screech at her until she pulled it for her and then would follow Grandma around for as long as possible.

The first few weeks we were in Reno were cool and rainy (very unusual) but we loved it. It didn't stop Madi from running to the door every time someone came in or out of the front or back door. This is Grandma's beautiful flower garden!

Madi chasing Mac the cat! She loved to chase him and even learned to pet him somewhat gently. He put up with her very nicely.

Busy playing with the fake grapes. These things have been a favorite of many grandkids and passed down from my own grandmother!

WE'RE BACK!!!

2009-08-28T20:51:00.004-05:00

OK! OK! I'm finally updating our blog after a long absence. Some of you may think that we fell off the face of the earth, and even though you may consider Nevada just that we still had a fun summer and have much to catch up on. We are now back in Mississippi and back to a bit of a routine, so bear with me as I do my best to get some pictures up.

ALSO....

Without further ado...we'd also like to announce the wonderful news of our
BABY
coming in January!!!

Seattle in May

2009-07-19T21:38:00.017-05:00

Fun times with cousins!

Madi trying to keep up with cousin Calli!

We had a wonderful visit with the my sister and her family in Seattle! I had a few days with my sister while Ryan and his brother Brent drove our car to Reno. Then Ryan met up with us in Seattle and we babysat the girls while April and Jeff went on a little vacation of their own. It was a lot of work and so much fun! Going from 1 girl to 5 was quite an adjustment but we sure love those girls and had a great time with them! I didn't take too many pics, I guess I was too busy keeping track of kids. (: I don't know how my sister does it all!

Sophie and Madi! Madi got LOTS of love from her cousins!

Alyssa and Madi! We couldn't have done it without all of her help and especially answering our millions of questions.

Emily LOVED to help out Madi! What a lucky girl to have such fabulous cousins!

Play time in and on the car!

Bright sun on a beautiful day in Seattle!!

Happy Birthday Ryan!

2009-05-12T22:26:00.007-05:00

OK- So I'm a bit late at posting about Ryan's birthday! But I had to give a little shout out to the most wonderful husband! It was kind of sad because he's been studying like crazy for finals and on his birthday was no exception. He was at the library most of the day. We were able to do a litte and we split up the celebrations and went out to a movie one night (our first one together here in MS...I know kind of sad), presents and lunch the next day, and cake with a few friends the following. It was a fun weekend. Happy Birthday Ryan!

My life is better everyday because of him. He makes me laugh, brings me greater joy and love than I ever thought possible, is an amazing father and sacrifices so much for his family. He is an example of righteousness and goodness in all he does, he knows what I need when I need it and is perfect for me! I'm blessed to call him mine!
I love you Ry!

Yummy Strawberry Cake from Primos Cafe.

Madi helping Ryan put together one of his gifts. She's so helpful! (:

2009-05-12T22:11:00.002-05:00

Must....eat....lunch!!!
Here's our poor tired girl! After refusing to take a morning nap...she couldn't make it through lunch! I was cracking up watching her chew with her eyes closed. Silly girl!

Stake Service Day!!

2009-04-26T21:37:00.008-05:00

We had an amazing stake service day on Saturday and we felt so blessed to be able to participate as a family! It was one of the most well planned and organized activities I've been to. They had over 400 volunteers (mostly from our church but others were invited also). They had different groups do work in cemeteries, the Boys and Girls Club, community gardens, the Zoo and more! They had families with young kids go to the zoo to work so parents could have the options to take turns working and taking the kids around for free to see the animals. What a great way to include and accommodate to families! We had a great day weeding and putting down mulch at the zoo! What a blessing it is to serve!

One of the youngest volunteers!

Helping Dad put down pine straw!

Weeding and more pine straw!

Madalyn did great sitting in the stroller for while and eating snacks. Once she figured out that we'd let her out of the stroller she was on the go crawling and walking around. I had to take a few breaks from weeding to take her to see the animals. She loved the otter and was cracking up as it dove in the water and climbed up the water slide! Too cute!

So Madalyn has been venturing out every once in a while and walking on her own. She can totally do it alone and has even walked the length of our hall way, but most of the time she is not quite confident enough to do it by herself. She would much rather walk around than crawl but insists on holding one of our fingers and will continue exploring. If we take away the finger she just sits down! Silly girl! Getting closer though!

Laughing at Barnes and Noble

2009-04-26T21:28:00.002-05:00

We were at Barnes and Noble and Madalyn was very entertained by this cute little boy crashing the trains. Big kids are so much fun! I just LOVE that giggling!

Mississippi Braves Baseball game

2009-04-26T21:21:00.003-05:00

Monday night we went to the Mississippi Braves baseball game. They are a minor league feeder team for the Atlanta Braves. Ryan got a student discount that night and we had a fun evening out. Madi had a great time walking up and down the hill (holding our hand of course) and visiting with some new little friends on the blanket just below us.

The Best of Friends!

2009-04-26T17:13:00.014-05:00

My best friend Kyla came last to visit last weekend and I'm not sure I can adequately describe how much I love and admire this girl! Kyla is one of those friends that you know the Lord sent your way because you needed her. I needed her when I met her and still need her today. She inspires me to be better, she has intelligent and meaning conversation with me, she makes me laugh til my sides hurt, she's not afraid to be goofy, and she loves despite all my weaknesses. (Just to mention a few) She is truly wonderful!! What a lucky girl I am to call her my friend! It was also so fun to meet and get to know Kasia and was like we'd been friend before.
Thanks for a fantastic weekend Kyla and Kasia! Come back soon!!!

Kyla came for 4 days and Kasia (a friend of hers) also joined in the fun. We had fun visiting downtown Jackson, the Cyprus Swamp, shopping, and eating some good southern cooking at Sugar's Place and Cock of the Walk. They loved all the good fried food!! We also had a great day down in New Orleans and ended up being there for a music filled festival in French Quarters. It was so much fun! What an incredibly unique city with amazing buildings, great Cajun food, entertaining people, and a plethera of art. Good times!

Ryan and Madi in the French Quarters! Madi did so well the whole trip. She's such a good baby!

This picture was taken in the midst of a concert in the center of the French Quarters with that big church behind us, not to be confused with the castle at Disneyland. (:

One year old picture!

2009-04-11T20:26:00.002-05:00

Here's our little sweetie! I loved this picture, it really captured her true smile, bright blue eyes and those tiny teeth. I think I'm the luckiest Mom in the world!!

Something to remember!

2009-04-04T23:59:00.001-05:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

2009-04-04T22:18:00.011-05:00

OUR BIRTHDAY GIRL!!!

Madalyn is one!

Here's our sweet little princess with her gifts!

This is a precious book from Nona and Grandpa Gonda.
We invited a few friends to celebrate with.

She loved the little puppy to pull from her friend Audrey.

Cupcakes?? I think she liked the sprinkles.

Happy birthday to you...
She wasn't quite sure what to think about all this. Then she tried to touch the flame of the candle before we could help her blow it out. Luckily no injury and no crying.

Soooo... the big moment to demolish the cupcake turned out to be a few tastes that I put into her mouth and then she was done. What can I say? She's crazy and didn't want to eat her cupcake. We even tried to give her one the next day and to no avail, she was not so interested in that one either. HMMM???

Daddy's little girl!

Proud Mommy and her baby girl!

What a wonderful day to celebrate this darling little miracle in our lives. What a blessing our little Madalyn is. I never cease to be amazed at the love that grows everyday for her. I remember that day just one year ago when I held her for the first time while sitting in the NICU of the hospital and never wanting to let her go. She was so very tiny and precious and I often still can't believe she is mine. Just when Ryan and I think we love her soooo much it continues to multiply and expand and fill our lives with the greatest joy imaginable.
Happy birthday Madalyn and many more to come!!!

A Trip to the Coast

2009-03-15T21:37:00.021-05:00

So this past weekend we had a little vacation (Ryan is on Spring Break) and went down to Gulf Shores, Alabama. The weather forecast wasn't leaning in our favor, but we decided to take a chance and headed down Friday and came back Saturday. It was BEAUTIFUL!! We loved the beach and it was Madalyn's first time to the ocean and first experience with sand. So much fun! We could stay there forever! Friday was great weather and Ryan even swam some. Madi loved holding onto our fingers and walking around on the sand and into the waves. What a beautiful place to visit. When we got in our car to drive home is started raining and poured the whole drive home (4 1/2 hours). What timing! Here are a few pictures from the weekend.

OK...so we're big fans of the Food Network (although we don't have cable and have to wait til we go to my parents' house to watch it) but Ryan remember seeing this place, LAMBERT'S on one of the shows. So we couldn't pass up the opportunity to have some "throwed rolls". It was some good southern food and fantastic rolls. Yes, we both caught the roll that was thrown to us (it was more of a toss). Daddy and Daughter loving the beach.

Madi loved the water even though the temperature was still a bit cool.

Playing in the sand.

She's so sweet and tiny.

As much as Ryan loves the beach (which is A LOT) he especially loved our visit to Alligator Alley and finally got to see all the alligators his heart desired (they have over 150)!

Even Madi liked seeing the alligators.

This BIG guy's name is Captain Crunch. He's set a world record for having the strongest bite! Kind of scary...he was like 13 feet long!

We even got to hold one of the little guys. They taped his mouth shut so no biting...kind of fun!

Frogs? Toads? Why not an alligator?

Real or not??? That is the question!

A little more beach time on Saturday. It was a bit cooler, but still very relaxing and enjoyable.

It's so hard to ever get a picture of our family...we need a photographer to follow us around, this is as good as it got on this trip.

A little souvenir shopping

Here are a couple videos of Madalyn. Sorry I couldn't turn the one. Hopefully they work OK.

2009-02-22T23:52:00.003-06:00

Here's a little video of Madalyn clapping! She's just so cute! OK...so perhaps I was a little too excited, but it's so fun when she learns new things and especially when they do it on command and you can capture it on video!

Valentine's Day and more

2009-02-15T22:35:00.010-06:00

Happy Valentine's Day! We a had a great day and here are a few pictures from the past few weeks. Madalyn sure has a wonderful dad! We are two lucky girls. Of course I got pictures of Madi and didn't get any of Ryan and myself. I just always forget about pictures of us. But these are the beautiful tulips on the side that Ryan got me. I wanted some that were potted so I could enjoy them longer. It was perfect along with some other fun gifts and we went to a very nice dinner! What a guy! I'm so happy to have my forever valentine, he sure makes every day happier in every way! Ryan was so sweet and got Madalyn a card and rose too! She thought it was so neat! He told me that she'll always be his Valentine too and sure treats her like a little princess.

Pink pancakes for the occasion, plus a little yogurt on the face! Yum!

Oh! Valentines for me??!! Madi loved her valentines from her cousins Calli and Sophie and from Nona and the Gondas!

On Friday, Ryan's law school had a "Family Day" and invited us over for a fish fry! We had a good ol' traditional southern meal with fried catfish, hush puppies, french fries, coleslaw, and banana pudding for dessert. Yes the coleslaw was the only thing on the plate that was not fried. (: We opted out on the sweet tea (but for most southerners that's a must). We sure love the southern culture and the people here are fantastic!
What a fun place to be!

Some of Madi's favorite things....playing on Daddy's computer. They learn this way too young.

She's loving to stand on her own. She can't quite pull herself up on her own but she loves standing wherever she can hold on!

The other day I was looking for a recipe and of course Madi joined in! She was so fascinated by the cook books and just kept turning the pages, looking through the books over and over. Maybe she was looking for something in particular too! (:

We love to be out in this beautiful weather! Did we skip winter here in Mississippi?
It feels more like Spring most days! Notice her cute little teeth. She's grown two more and is up to four now.

Yes, this is the Cypress swamp...we're STILL on the search for alligators. No luck yet! We'll keep you posted!

2009-01-25T18:50:00.005-06:00

I'm trying to learn how to upload some videos now (finally). I think mine are too big, but I'm not sure how to change that other than lessen the time, it just takes forever to upload them. Anyways, here's one of Madi at my parent's house. Ryan was playing with her and she was just cracking up. I had to sneak up on them, but I thought it was so cute! She LOVES playing with her daddy!

It's been good to be back at home although we sure miss our family. The past two weeks we've all been getting into our routine. It's nice to have Madalyn back on her schedule (going to bed at 7:30 instead of 11:00), but we miss spending so much time with Ryan. He's back to the grind of school! I also had a little extra job this week and babysat a little boy after school for 3 hours or so. It was fun and a little extra money, but made me appreciate my freedoms with having just my little Madi to accommodate to. I've also been tutoring my little preschool boy a couple days a week and enjoy that time also. Last week I also received an addition to my callings and am now teaching CTR 5! It's so fun! It really helps fill my need to work with those precious children that I have missed so much. This is my first time in primary and I'm just so entertained by those kids. They crack me up! What a fun time!