The Patterson's

Flashback Friday...Living the Suite Life!

2011-01-21T08:01:00.000-08:00

This flashback isn't very old, but I realized I had never blogged about this day! As many of you know...I began my college career at OU and absolutely loved my experience there!! I was a SOONER FAN through and through...until I fell in love with my Jerid! It took him a while to convince me to convert and it helped that I had transferred to OSU my junior year of college. Anyway...I now sport my black and orange every Fall saturday and love my COWBOYS!!! We were able to take the girls to this game and spend it in one of the suites (A big thanks to Jerid's dad)!! The sweets are really beautiful and the food up there is ....Awesome!!! We had a great time and are so thankful for this opportunity!

As those of you with small kids know...it's never easy to get a family pic, but we tried!

Layne really enjoyed the food...

Lyla prefered to be fed by Dar...they have a special bond, so it sure made the day easy for me!

She was so into what was going on down on the field...she could see the dancers really well,but kept saying she couldn't see the cheerleaders!!

Sharing some yummy icecream...I couldn't believe all the food choices up there!

The band comes around and plays to each suite for a bit...I think Layne thought they came to play just for her...so sweet!!

She borrowed these from a kid in the suite...he was so nice to let her borrow them. Everyone was so kind to us and we had an amazing time...GO POKES!!!!!!!

We had so much fun...I just love watching the girls experience new things...judging by this picture I took as we were leaving town...I think they had a pretty good time!

Wordless Wednesday!

2011-01-19T13:00:00.000-08:00

Flashback Friday...Tiny Dancer...and Tiniest Dancer!

2011-01-14T20:38:00.000-08:00

Layne's dance studio put on a Christmas show about a month ago. This is Layne's first year to take dance and she is in a ballet/tap combo class. She does really well, but she always tells me that it's so much work and she gets tired! I try to explain to her that most things worth learning takes hard work to achieve. I was never a dancer (those of you that cheered with me know this)...I just had to be good enough to fake it or hide behind someone else! Annie, I apoligize for all those times that I tested your patience when you were teaching me a new dance!! Anyway, I was proud of how well Layne did. They start at age 3, so she is very young. Many of the girls this age stood like a deer in headlights or ran off crying into the arms of their mom! So, I was just so excited that she did this well!!! The tiniest dancer next to Layne is Anabella...she really has her shuffle down! Just thought I would share this video...so proud of my tiny dancer!!

The Rest of Christmas...

2011-01-11T13:51:00.000-08:00

So, I promised you the rest of our Christmas and here it is...

After opening our gifts Christmas morning,we drove to Woodward to celebrate with my family. It was nice because both sets of Grandparents were able to drop by and visit. We just don't get to see them enough! Once again my parents out did themselves. We had so much yummy food and the kids were overwhelmed with gifts!

Lyla opened her first gift, a puzzle from grandma and grandpa...she carried it into the kitchen and I didn't get much help from her after that!
Layne digging in to her gifts...I love how happy she is in this picture!

Lyla decided to rejoin me for this present from Reece...she finally figured it out..sort of!

Layne got a Fisher Price ixl from Jerid and I, but I was soon wishing I would've got Lyla one too...she loves playing with it.

On Sunday, we celebrated with Jerid's family. We spent lunchtime at Jerid's grandpa's house. It was so nice to see everyone...Dar got to help Lyla open all of her gifts!

After lunch, we headed to Jerid's parent's house to spend the rest of the day.

Layne got lots of arts and crafts sets which she LOVES! Oh, and she got this little ballerina dress which she couldn't wait to wear to dance!!

Here's Lyla checking out her new doll from her Papa and Nana story...it's so cute...just wish it had a volume button!

Diane always makes gingerbread cookies for the kids to decorate. They have such a blast doing this...of course, Autumn and Layne feel that "more is more" instead of "less is more" ! Lyla even participated this year!

I think she got more on her face than her gingerbread man!!

We had such a wonderful Christmas with our friends and family!!!! Now on to 2011....

Christmastime Part ONE

2011-01-03T13:23:00.000-08:00

This whole stay-at-home thing doesn't leave me much time to blog! I couldn't wait for Lyla to take a nap, so that I could wash my hair today!! Not that I am complaining...I LOVE being at home with my girls and Bella. It's just a lot of work...ALL THE TIME!!! Anyway, here's some pictures from the first part of Christmas. After reading Mandy's Christmas blogs, I realized how much we have in common...I too feel it's very important that the girls wake up at there house Christmas morning. Yes, this might seem selfish because I woke up at my house as a kid and want my kids to have that same experience. Plus, it's our time as a family to make memories and someday it will be their time with their families. I am AMAZED at how many parents and in-laws are just baffled by this concept and really kind of mean about it. Many of my friends with young families have had a difficult time getting the grandparents to accept this...thank goodness Jerid and my parents are very good about it! Layne was really starting to figure things out this year, so it was a lot of fun!!

Layne putting the star on the tree...with some help from Daddy!
We got our very own Elf on a Shelf this year and Layne loved finding him each morning! When we were trying to decide on his name, Lyla kept doing the OSU gun sign and saying GO POKES...so we decided to name him POKEY!!

Pokey came with a book explaining his job and how everything worked...

We went to the Christmas Eve service on the 23rd this year. Lance was flying in on the 24th and I knew things would be crazy, so the 23rd was better for us! Like Mandy, this is my very favorite part of Christmas. The service was beautiful and the message was perfect. This is the moment I feel closest to God and I tear up during Silent Night every year...something about God, family, and Christmas that just makes for a perfect moment!

Me and my sweet girls!

Layne in her Christmas dress...she kept telling everyone it was Waterfall Blue!!

Lyla in her Christmas dress...she was so happy and proud of her outfit!

Christmas morning...I like that Layne wasted NO time getting in to her Hershey Bar! The baby beside her was from Santa...she named her Dellie (she must have been really hungry or something).

Yes, she did get tape in her stocking...I can't stand it that she's always stealing mine.

We had to wake Lyla up...can you tell?

Lyla got this chair from Santa and she's modeling her new winter hat!

We had an amazing Christmas and I will try not to wait too long to post the rest of our holiday...I just wouldn't hold your breath!!!

Summer Vacation

2010-11-09T12:15:00.001-08:00

This summer, Jerid and I took Layne to Angel Fire, NM for a little vacation. She was so excited to be going to the mountains! We didn't take Lyla because we knew she couldn't do much and thought it would be fun to give Layne our undivided attention for a few days! Kandace and Stoney kept Lyla...between Pei Wei and Pink Swirl...I don't think she missed us much! Of course, Layne missed Lyla terribly and we all felt like someone was missing the whole time, so we cut our trip short and went home a day early!

This is the condo we stayed in...

Layne and I spent a lot of time on our balcony rocking baby and taking in that fresh mountain air!

This is Layne riding her first ski lift...she LOVED it!!

She sat like this for a long time...she said the water was just too cold. Of course, she had no problem getting in the hot tub a bit later!

Layne and Jerid feeding the prairie dogs and chipmunks...I love this picture!

Layne attempted the bungie bounce, but she chickened out after a few jumps. Jerid was mad, but I thought it was brave of her to atleast try! The moon bounce was much more her style!

My little Layne at the top of the ski lift...she dressed herself everyday we were there and I just love her choice this day!

She was so cranky once we started walking around on the mountain and a storm was coming in, so we headed back down the mountain and my sweet bug fell asleep.

We had a lot of fun and can't wait until we can go back, but next time Lyla will be with us!

TRICK-OR-TREAT...and the Pumpkin Patch!

2010-11-05T11:28:00.001-07:00

family pic at the Pumpkin Patch...

I am so behind on posting that I couldn't even figure out where to begin! So, I decided to go ahead and post some recent stuff and go back to what we did all summer in a Flashback...I figure I should just be proud of the fact that I am posting and not focus on how far behind I am!!

This first picture is of the girls in there "Halloween" jammies. I know that they aren't halloweenie at all, but I just didn't find any that I was in love with this year, so I bought these adorable dog pjs instead...they were a hit!

This is my sweet Layne at the patch. It was extremely windy and she was too busy for pictures, but I managed to get this one while she set on some pumpkins plotting her search for the perfect one!!

It didn't take Lyla long to find her perfect pumpkin...that girl knows how to make a decision!

Layne trick-or-treating...she was Alice. Lyla was a black kitty, but she opted to be pushed in the stroller by Dad instead of going door-to-door...can't say I blame her!!!

The night was complete with 2 Alices, a Best Friend, A punk girl, a skeleton monster of some sort, a black kitty, and whatever Reece was! Thanks Mandy and Ryan for hosting the Halloween gathering this year...we all had a blast!

Lyla's 1st Birthday!

2010-08-12T11:03:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Lyla's first birthday about a month ago...but I am just now blogging about it! Summer is such a busy time...who am I kidding...everyday of every month is a BUSY time with kids!!! Anyway, she had a great birthday with all of her cousins...I love when Jerid's family and my family can all be together...it makes me feel full! Lyla is so much fun right now, here's a few of the milestones she has reached...

She began walking at 2 days before turning 13 months (August 3rd)

She has 3 teeth on top and 3 on bottom which seems kind of funny, but it's pretty cute!

She repeats anything you say...I do mean anything! She is quite the talker!!

She loves baths, bike rides, playing with Layne, swimming, wrestling Daddy, music, and FOOD!

She does not like...

getting in her car seats

long road trips

Mommy putting her down

changing her diaper or clothes

having to wait on food or drink

We LOVE, LOVE, LOVE you sweet Lyla Lou!!!

Wordless...What Have You Found in Your Washer?

2010-07-07T09:53:00.001-07:00

On a side note...yes, I do realize our washer is disgusting! It needs a good scrubbing, but who ever thinks to scrub the washer? I'm too busy doing laundry to scrub the washer!!! We actually got this washer from Pam and John Garvie several years ago and it has been going strong! I am one of those people that will probably never have a matching washer/dryer because I can't part with something that still works so well! Also, I am now wondering how a washer gets so yucky in the first place? Must be all the lent. On another side note...how does the fridge get so disgusting? I have always wondered this as I am cleaning it out...which I do on rare ocassions! Anyway....hope you enjoy the picture! I promise I will be posting about Lyla turning one, I just want to make sure I have the time to make it a worthy post!!!

Wordless...I Think He's Breaking Up With Her!

2010-06-30T18:38:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day to Our Favorite Dads!!!

2010-06-20T10:54:00.001-07:00

Wordless Wednesday!

2010-06-16T20:01:00.000-07:00

Spring 2010

2010-05-23T08:58:00.000-07:00

The girls had their Easter pictures taken by Angel and they are so adorable! I put just a couple on here because it is taking my computer so long to load my pictures! Lyla LOVED the baby chicks...she was both confused and fascinated by these feathered, little creatures!!

I thought this one was funny of Layne...she looks so grown up and beautiful...yet this poor bunny is seeing or shall I say feeling a different side of her!!! He kept wanting to hop away, so she found a way to keep him on her lap!

Lyla didn't participate in the Egg Hunt...she enjoyed being passed around from person to person though!

Layne doing what she does best...sneaking a snack! Asking for help is just too much trouble!!!

Good morning and Happy Easter!!! These pics are out of order, but you get the point.

Easter jammies...yes, I am that mom that dresses her two pretty girls alike...I just can't help it!

She was very focused during the egg painting, she loves her arts and crafts!

I hope everyone has had a wonderful Spring and is looking forward to Summer...I know we are! Who doesn't love BBQs, swimming, and lots and lots of icecream right??? We are looking forward to spending our time outside and planning Lyla Lou's first birthday! I can't believe she is so old...

A Party in Pixie Hollow

2010-02-21T20:12:00.000-08:00

Layne celebrated her 3rd birthday on January 30th, but I am just now getting those pictures downloaded. She had been saying that she wanted a Tinkerbell party for many months, so when it came time to plan the BIG day...it was a no-brainer! As a child, I ALWAYS had my birthday parties at home with friends and family. My mom would bake and decorate our cakes and we would have simple decorations...streamers and balloons! I absolutely LOVE how personal it was, so I have tried to create this same atmosphere for my kiddos birthdays. I have always made the cake myself (or with help from my mom). I was not impressed with my work on this particular cake, but it is what it is and hopefully someday Layne will appreciate the effort!! I won't promise that my kid will never have a birthday party outside of our home, but while they're young I hope to continue to keep things simple. My pictures our in reverse order, but I think you can get the idea! Layne had a fabulous time with her cousins, grandparents, and aunts and uncles. Lance couldn't be there of course, but she took time out from the party to chat with him on the phone.

Here's a picture of our smallest fairy right before she fell asleep.

Here's my Bug blowing out her candles...it's supposed to be a giant sunflower with the faires on top in case there was some confusion!

Jerid and I got her the purple princess bike she has been asking for since Santa brought Autumn a pink one!

Here's the gifts Lance got her...101 Dalmations and an outfit. Thanks Lance!

Here is the party...(top) C.J., Reece, Cash, Autumn, Layne, Bella
(bottom) Kamryn, Avery, Carson

Cash was conducting a very important business call!

Here's my sweet, little Tinkerbell...loved the headband and bow "Aunt" Leia!!!

Happy Birthday Reece!

2010-02-11T08:31:00.001-08:00

Flashback...Lyla is 7 Months!

2010-02-05T15:16:00.000-08:00

My sweet Lyla is now 7 months old...today! I don't know where all the time has gone!! She is now sitting up by herself with an occassional fall, loves her solid foods (even the green ones), and is chabbering a lot (she says dada)!!! Those teeth that had found there way to the surface at three months are still not poking through! I'm thinking this will happen any day now! I was limited on recent pics because I'm at Kandace's and don't have all my photos downloaded over here. So, here's a pic of Lyla recently and one of her as a newborn...babies are so much fun!

Layne Juleian is 3!

2010-02-02T12:39:00.000-08:00

Layne Juleian born January 30th, 2007 at 5:45 P.M.
Height-19.75 in.
Weight-6.12 lbs.
Layne at age 1!

Layne at 2!

Layne at age 3! She looks so old to me!!

My sweet Layne turned 3 last Saturday!! We had to reschedule her party from Sat. to Sun. so that everyone could make it. She had a great time and I will post party pics soon. I just wanted to share some of the things that she has been up to and what she is like at 3. She is very independent, but still loves having the sympathy of Mommy and Daddy when she gets hurt or discouraged! She is extremely witty and kind, with a bit of sassiness from time to time. Lately, her favorite thing to do is "DRESS-UP". She loves wearing her Disney costumes or just putting on one outfit after another. We spend all day changing clothes!!! She is of average height and weight which many of you know EXCITES me! Some of her favorite foods are "macaronies", tomatoes, blueberries, strawberries, bagels and cheese (she is my daughter after all)! She loves books, coloring, singing, bubble baths, and playing with her dolls. Love you Layney Bug!!!

Celebrity Collage by MyHeritage

2010-02-01T11:33:00.001-08:00

MyHeritage: Family trees - Genealogy - Celebrities - Collage - Morph

Channeling Her Inner Aunt Mandy...

2010-01-27T07:12:00.000-08:00

Christmas 2009

2010-01-22T07:25:00.001-08:00

I know that it is almost February and I am just now posting Christmas pictures, but it's better late than never...right? As you all know we had a very snowy Christmas Eve in OKC and it was absolutely beautiful!! Of course it made it impossible for us to attend the Christmas Eve service at church and extremely difficult to get to Woodward Christmas Day! Many of our neighbors came over Christmas Day and helped Jerid dig our way out of the driveway so that we could head to Woodward...they are such wonderful people! Here are way too many pictures from our various Christmas celebrations...it was hard to choose just a few!!

This is our house Christmas Eve

I still put Layne and Lyla in their Christmas dresses and took pictures even though we couldn't go to church! I had a difficult time getting a good pic.

Layne holding Baby Jesus in her hands.

Here's the Barbie Jeep Santa brought Layne...she HAD to sit in it while opening all her gifts!!

Lyla got a play gym from Santa which she loves! It worked out well because she played with it while the rest of us opened gifts.

This is the baby doll we got her...she LIKED it a little too much!

Autumn and Layne in their dress up costumes with their favorite Dar! I just love this picture!!!

Layne in her Christmas outfit at Grandma and Grandpa's...she LOVES Snoopy and "Woodscotch"!

Lyla in her matching Christmas outfit..."MERRY Christmas to all"!

My incredibly talented mom made all the girls in the family aprons for Christmas...she even made Lyla a bib!

She also found these aprons for the guys and thought it would be funny...I mean fun to get them for all the "men" in our family! They all looked so thrilled!!!

Here's a picture of the kiddos making their "SCARY" faces...C.J. was still half asleep and not interested in being photographed!

This is a picture of the two princesses putting their wands together to create some MAGIC! They have such a great time playing together! I love Autumn's pose!!

And of course, what would Christmas be without a snowman??? Jerid made this for Layne while she stood there doing her only job...holding the carrot until it was time to add it. I was inside with Lyla and I heard someone digging in the fridge. When I asked Layne what she was doing this is how the conversations went...

Layne: "I'm getting a carrot".

Me: "I already gave you a carrot".

Layne: "Yeah...well...I ate it, so I'm going to need another one".

That's my girl!!!

Wordless Wednesday...

2010-01-13T14:29:00.000-08:00

Lyla is 6 Months!

2010-01-11T08:43:00.000-08:00

The last month has been super busy and I am trying to get caught up! Our little Lyla Bear is now 6 months old and I find myself wondering where the time has gone. She is now 13lbs. 2 oz. and 24 1/2 in. long. She is in the 10th percentile for height and the 30th for weight. Layne was very much like this when she was little, but she is very average for her age now. She rolls over and scoots around a little on her belly. She smiles, laughs, and talks constantly! She says both dada and mama, but not so much in relation to us...she just says those sounds. She is now eating baby food and starting to really like it. She is so laid back and happy all the time and we thank God everyday for such a healthy, sweet, and beautiful little girl!! Layne will be 3 in a few weeks!!! I just can't believe how fast this all happens...it makes me a little sad. But, I have decided that there is no sense in letting it upset me. I refuse to waste my time whining about something I have NO control over and enjoy every minute that I have with my two girls!! I will soon post some Christmas pictures, so for now hopefully this will do....

Happy Holidays!!!

2009-12-18T08:20:00.000-08:00

I have been so busy this month, that I have had no time to post! I guess I would rather spend my time having a GREAT time than posting about it!!! So, maybe once Christmas is over I can get caught up on all my posting. So, for now you'll just have to accept my pathetic attempts at a blog entry. These are my two precious dolls...it is IMPOSSIBLE to get an almost 3 year old and an infant to take a picture together that is worth a darn...so here's the best we could do! I hope that all of you enjoy your Christmas with family and friends and remember the truly mangnificent reason for this holiday season!!! Peace and Joy-The Patterson's

Reasons for not blogging lately...

2009-12-04T14:25:00.000-08:00

Reason # 1...

Reason # 2

We have been so busy raising these two little dolls that I have had very little time to blog. The extra time that I do have...well, I have to sleep sometime!! We had an amazing Thanksgiving spending time with family and friends. My good friend Tasha was in town for the holiday, and we got a chance to hang out with her and her husband Nick. It was so refreshing to know that some people never change! This weekend Jerid and I are taking Layne to "Breakfast with Santa" at the Orr Family Farm and I am pretty sure that I am more excited about it than Layne! She keeps saying "Don't leave me with Santa"! I wish someone would leave me with Santa. I'd love to go to the North Pole...elves, toys, yummy food and drink, MAGIC!!! Lyla will of course be staying warm and cozy at her Aunt Kandace's! I hope everyone is enjoying their holiday season!

Happy Birthday Carson!

2009-11-12T07:23:00.001-08:00

Today is my nephew Carson's birthday! He is the big 1-0!! He is such a wonderful kid and he does such a great job with his cousins...they adore him! He is pretty much surrounded by girls and he handles it very well! We love you Carson and we hope you have a very HAPPY birthday!

Finally...

2009-11-10T14:34:00.000-08:00

When we bought our house last summer, we knew there were some things that we wanted to do to eventually update it. One of our first priorities was to replace the dingy, white carpet and zig-zagging pavers with wood flooring. It was quite a pain getting it put in, but the floors look amazing and we are so glad we did it! Here are some before and after pictures... now all we need is some stuff on the walls...Mandy, a little help please!

On a side note...my Lyla Bean is now 13 lbs. and 23 1/2 in. She is in the 30% for weight and the 25% for height. We are looking forward to starting her on some cereal tonight!!!

Lyla Lou is 4 Months Old!

2009-11-05T11:22:00.000-08:00

Lyla Louise is 4 months old today!! I am not sure how much she's grown because we don't go to the doctor until Tuesday, but she is doing some other pretty exciting things (for a 4 month old anyway). Her two bottom teeth are poking through, she is so close to rolling from her back to her front...any day now, and she can hold objects in her hands! She loves to talk, look at herself in the mirror, and interact with Layne. She has found the t.v. and loves watching sports...I think it's because of all the bright colors and the constant motion, but we like to believe she just LOVES sports!! I am looking forward to starting her on solids...I think she's really going to like it. She is not the best eater. She eats a below average amount, but so did Layne until she started solids. Lyla has really been the BEST baby. She only cries when she is hungry aside from the fussiness we experienced while her teeth were coming through. We love her so much and couldn't feel more blessed! Here's a few pictures of Lyla at 4 months!! She is the spitting image of her daddy!

Halloween Night...Part 2

2009-11-04T11:35:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful Halloween night...the weather was beautiful and the kids were so excited! C.J. ran up to my door yelling "Look Kristen, my dad gave me a black eye!". I was wondering what the neighbors were thinking...
Layne and her beautiful bumble bee friend...Riley

A Flower Fairy and Bat Girl???

Trick-or-Treating- The girls argued over who got to ring the doorbell, so we had to take turns!

Layne was "tired", so she rang this doorbell and then took a rest on their bench!

Layne enjoying a late night treat in her Halloween jammies.

Lyla enjoying a late night snooze in her jammies.

Until next year...Happy Halloween!!!

Halloween Part 1

2009-11-03T11:48:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful Halloween! From the blogs I've seen, it looks like everyone had a great time! I am going to do two parts to our Halloween because I liked so many of the pictures that I couldn't narrow it down. So, I am starting with Jerid and Layne's jack-o-lantern...Layne more or less just oversaw the project. She wasn't in to getting her hands icky! I think her exact words were "Ewww...that's disgusting"!
Though Lyla stayed inside with me during the project, she still wanted to be involved. Here she is posing with the finished product...she looks thrilled, huh?

Me and my precious, little Lyla Bear

The three girls...don't we look Halloweenie!!!

We filled the girls pumpkins up with goodies and gave it to them on Halloween morning. This is Layne checking out her loot.

Here's Layne showing Lyla what's in her pumpkin. Again, doesn't she look thrilled?

My Purple Flower Fairy...aka Rosetta! I appreciate that Annie got the refrence to this on Mandy's blog. She loves the Tinkerbell movie so much and her favorite character is Rosetta (and Cheese)! So, she kept telling everyone she was Rosetta (Rosetta takes care of the flowers hence flower fairy)!!!

This is a picture of the girls and I before we went to have their pictures taken. Lyla was also a Flower Fairy, but she isn't wearing her flower hat in this picture.

Part 2 coming soon...

Frightful Flashback!

2009-10-30T07:55:00.000-07:00

Since it is Halloween, I thought it would be a good idea to FLASHBACK to last year's Halloween! Layne had just been at her first daycare for a few months. She was starting to get used to it, but would still freak out if I showed up there. I was there for her Halloween Party and she wouldn't let me put her down...her face tells the story...
Here's a picture of Layne and Jerid putting the finishing touches on their jack-o-lantern.

We had a similar theme going with costumes last year...WITCHES!

Here's a picture of Layne and her good friend Riley The Ladybug!

Layne was such a cute little witch...I just LOVED this costume that my mom made for her!!

I hope everyone has a safe and HAPPY HALLOWEEN! I look forward to seeing everyone's Halloween posts next week!

Happy 5th Birthday C-MAN!

2009-10-27T10:04:00.001-07:00

C.J.'s birthday isn't until tomorrow, but I wanted to make sure I had time to post something. We just wanted to wish you a HAPPY BIRTHDAY Little Man! We hope you have a wonderful day and enjoy your party at Haunt the Zoo! It's pretty funny because both of my girls just LOVE their C.J.!! Layne and him are partners in crime on many occassions, she is very attached to him! Happy 5th...We love you!!!

Wordless Wednesday!

2009-10-21T07:20:00.001-07:00

Always wash your hands after using the restroom...

Have a wonderful rest of the week!!!

Happy Birthday to Grandpa!!

2009-10-15T07:23:00.001-07:00

Today is my dad's birthday, so we wanted to wish him a wonderful day! He is such a great Dad and Grandpa to me and my girls and we LOVE him very much! We hope you have a fantastic birthday!!! Once again, most of my Lyla pictures are on my computer at home. So, this one will have to do.

A Trip to The Patch

2009-10-13T14:19:00.000-07:00

We recently took our annual trip to the Pumpkin Patch to get our delightful spread of pumpkins! We had such a great time picking our pumpkins and even Lyla had her very own pumpkin chosen for her!! Jerid made most of the decisions while I chased Miss Layne all over that patch, but I think he did a terrific job...Happy Fall Everyone!!!

Happy 4th Autumn!

2009-10-04T09:54:00.001-07:00

My beautiful niece Autumn is 4 today! She is such a sweet, little girl full of energy and laughter and we love her VERY much! Layne and Autumn always have such a great time when they get together and we are fortunate to be able to see Autumn quite often. Happy Birthday Sweetheart...we hope you have a wonderful day!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-09-30T14:42:00.000-07:00

2009-09-18T11:48:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Grandma! You are such a wonderful grandma and we love you VERY much!!

We hope you have a wonderful day...see you soon! xoxo-Layne and Lyla

p.s.-Sorry for the lack of pictures of you and Lyla, but I am not at home and they are all on my computer there.

Wordless Wednesday

2009-09-16T07:42:00.000-07:00

Some of Lyla's Firsts

2009-09-14T13:13:00.000-07:00

This is Lyla saying her first prayer...I wonder what she's praying about?

This is Lyla's first walk. She slept through most of it, but she loves to be outside!

This first picture is Lyla after her first bath. The next picture is Lyla during her first bath...she was not impressed!

My sweet, little Lyla is already 2 months and counting! She had her two month appointment last Thursday and is growing like a weed. She was 6lbs 4 oz at birth and now weighs a wopping 9lbs 12 oz. She was 18 1/4 in and is now 21 3/4 in. So, she is in the 30% for weight and the 20% for height. She has really started to look more like a baby and less like an infant...I know all of you mommies know what I am talking about. She has really started to smile and talk a lot! Layne is still really loving having Lyla around and I hope that this continues!

Lyla's Visitors

2009-09-08T08:32:00.000-07:00

Since Lyla was born, she has had many visitors. I have just been so busy with an infant and a two year old (I'm sure you can all relate) that I have had NO time to post lately! So, some of these pictures are a month or two old...but better late than never! My Lyla is 2 months old already! I am hoping to post a Lyla update soon. She goes to the dr. on Thursday, so I should have some new info. after that.

Great-Grandma Hunter

Annie

Great-Grandma and Great-Grandpa Neagle

Nana Story

Cousin Carson

Uncle Lance

Three Birthday Parties

2009-09-04T14:35:00.001-07:00

In the last few months we attended 3 birthday parties. The first was Cashion's Thomas the Train party. It was at Crystal Beach and Layne had a BLAST! The kids were having so much fun playing on all the toys. Cash and Layne were working so hard trying to get that hamster wheel toy to turn. So, I decided to take some pictures. Riley saw that I had my camera out and just had to be in some pics! It was too funny! Layne really enjoyed playing with her. The even went swimming at the new water park which is AMAZING!

The second party was the next day. It was Kassie Young's party (Jerid's cousin). She had the first part at the waterpark, but Layne unfortunately slept through that. Later, we went to Bob and Kathy's for cake and presents and Layne really enjoyed playing with Autumn and Kassie. Jerid and I also enjoyed visiting with the family!

The third party was Bella's. The kids always have such a great time when they are all together and I am loving that they all live in Edmond! I know you aren't seeing Lyla in any of these, but she is screaming at me right now, so I have to end this post to feed her!! More on her soon...I promise.

Angel is AMAZING!

2009-08-10T13:12:00.000-07:00

I have been so busy lately and haven't had much time to post. I have lots of pictures that I want to share, but need a chunk of time to download and blog. Lyla is doing great...growing like a weed! We took pictures when Lyla was 5 days old. Angel Porch came to our house and took them. I found out about her on Candice's blog. I LOVED the pictures Angel had taken of Alex, so I went to her blog/website and was AMAZED! Some of the pictures are shown in my last post, but you can see more (including some beautiful pics of Layne) on her website. Just go to www.angelporchphotography.com then click on potrait site-client proofing-password is lyla. Let me know what you think...unless you don't like them. I don't need to know that!

Wordless Wednesday...One Day Late!

2009-07-30T07:42:00.000-07:00

Out of Town

2009-07-21T10:00:00.000-07:00

I know that many of you are probably concerned that Mandy hasn't blogged in about a week now, so I thought I would let you know that she is just out of town! If you are anything like me, you tend to rely on her posts on a regular basis. Let's face it, she is probably the best poster of all of us! The Garvie's left on Sat. for the Baseball World Series in Texas and will be back this weekend sometime. I am sure she'll have plenty of pictures and stories to tell once she gets back. My little brother Lance will also fly in on Saturday to spend a week here. So, we should have plenty to post about in the next week or so! I am at Kandace's working right now, so I don't have my pictures downloaded here. I will soon be posting Lyla's first bath so stay tuned!! We also had Lyla's newborn pictures taken by the very talented Angel Porch, so I will be sharing those with you soon!

4th of July!

2009-07-18T13:26:00.000-07:00

As most of you know, we had a very eventful 4th, so I have not had a chance to post some of our holiday pictures. We had a great time at the Elwood's with great friends and great food! Brandi had set up some pools for the kiddos and Layne and Ava had a blast (Ava is Nathan Hyle's little one)! Layne loves Derek and Brandi...it's kind of scary that she loves "Fireman Derek", but he is great with her. Here's some pictures of our day...the last day we were a family of three!!

Our Little Lyla Lou!

2009-07-13T09:57:00.000-07:00

So, I finally got around to posting pictures of our sweet, little girl! I know most of you have seen pictures of her on Mandy's blog, but I thought I would put some that you haven't seen up on mine. As you know, she was born on Sunday morning at 6:51. I was scheduled to be induced on Tuesday, but I had a VERY strong feeling she wasn't going to wait that long! Now I know that strong feeling that I was having is called contractions! I had been having them on and off for a few weeks,but nothing ever came of them. I woke up Sat. morning with them, but thought it was nothing. So, Jerid, Layne,and I went to the Elwood's about 3 that afternoon. I decided even if it was something...I wasn't going to sit at home and ponder over it all day! We had a great 4th (I'll post those pics later) and even caught some great fireworks. We got home around 11 and I had noticed that they were getting closer and more painful throughout the night. So, I started timing them and decided that since I had to get Layne to Mandy, it was better to be safe then sorry. We met Mandy along the way and thank goodness she brought Kamryn with her. Once Layne saw Kam, she was so excited to be going home with them! Anyway, we got to the hospital about 2 and less than 5 hours later...she was here!! Everyone is doing wonderful and we feel so blessed to have Lyla join our family. I also want to say thank-you to my sisters and my mom for all of there help...they have been AMAZING! I hope you enjoy the pictures!

Lyla and Daddy!

I love this picture!

I think Layne's face says it all!

All wrapped up and ready to go home...

Layne loves her new job as Big Sister!

Wordless Wednesday...More Pictures to Come!

2009-07-08T15:10:00.000-07:00

Wordless Wednesday

2009-06-24T07:59:00.001-07:00

Happy Dad's Day...A Letter From Layne

2009-06-20T14:36:00.000-07:00

Daddy- You are the best! You are ALWAYS there when I need you. I have so many wonderful memories with you and look forward to the MANY more we will create together! These are just a few of the many reasons I love you!!! I hope you have the best Father's Day and that you know just how special you are to me and Mommy!

You help me to choose the BEST pumpkin in the pumkin patch...

and show me how to make the PERFECT jack-o-lantern!

You let me take bubble baths and turn on the jets so that the bubbles are EXTRA BIG!!!

You always take me outside and let me blow bubbles until the entire bottle is gone!

You splurged and let me buy the pool with the slide...and I LOVE it!

You take me to the zoo and let me spend "EXTRA" time looking at the sea lions and seals because you know they are my FAVORITE!

You even came to my school and ate a donut with me on my "Donuts with Dads Day"! You are truly the best and I know Baby Sister Lyla is going to adore you just as much as I do!!! Happy Father's Day Daddy! XOXO-Niblet

Wordless Wednesday...Hilary, This One's For You!

2009-06-17T08:21:00.001-07:00

Wordless Wednesday

2009-06-10T07:24:00.001-07:00

Wordless Wednesday...Oklahoma Weather!

2009-06-03T10:23:00.000-07:00

Wordless Wednesday...

2009-05-27T12:46:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday Aunt Mandy!

2009-05-14T08:35:00.001-07:00

We love you and hope you have a HAPPY, HAPPY, BIRTHDAY!!! All I keep thinking is...my birthday is NEXT! The BIG 30 is right around the corner...YIKES! Enjoy your day!

Happy Birthday Lance!

2009-05-09T08:38:00.000-07:00

Today is my little brother's birthday, so I wanted to wish him a HAPPY BIRTHDAY! He is such a wonderful son, brother, uncle, and friend! His neices and nephews adore him even though he never lets them get by with anything. He has babysat more times then I can count which is something not a lot of single guys would do by themselves. Just the other day Kamryn and I were talking, and she said "I wish Uncle Lance still lived here". We love you Lance and we wish you a very happy day! Can't wait to see you in July!!!

Baby Elwood and A New Haircut!

2009-05-01T12:33:00.001-07:00

Layne recently got her haircut and I am LOVING it! For the longest time she has had a mullet. I have always covered it up by pulling her hair up, but she was beginning to fight me on that. I love Alex McGinnis' haircut so much, that I wanted to try that with Layne's. I am so glad I did it. Now, all I have to do is brush it and clip her bangs over to the side! She wasn't really in the picture-taking mood, so this is all I could come up with...

Last night we brought our good friends Derek and Brandi dinner and got to spend some time with Baby Darwin! He is such a precious and tiny little man! He was not real impressed with us, but he was sleepy. Layne was in love with him! She kept holding out her hands and asking if she could hold him...she is going to be a great big sister!!! Darwin looks just like his Daddy as you can probably tell from the pictures. Knowing Derek for as long as I have, I never could really picture him as a dad, but he is a complete natural! Congrats to you both!!!

Enjoy your weekend!

Easter 2009

2009-04-23T14:56:00.000-07:00

I was finally able to find a little time to post some Easter pictures. I know that Mandy already did this, but I had a few that I feel are post worthy. We had a great time and I ate A LOT (don't judge me...I am trying to grow a baby)!

Kandace and I made these bunny cakes for the kids to decorate and this is what they came up with.

The boys cake...

The girls collaboration...

My Dad was taking a nap and Layne took it upon herself to get on the couch and imitate him...too cute!

When we told them they could start hunting eggs, Layne dropped her basket and began collecting eggs like this...

Anabella kept picking up eggs and putting them in Layne's basket. I have a feeling she won't be doing that next year!

Here is Layne looking through what the Easter Bunny left for her. She is her Father's Daughter...she has all these goodies, but she chooses to dig into her chocolate bunny!

Happy 7th Birthday Miss Kamryn!

2009-04-15T14:58:00.000-07:00

I know Mandy already posted about Kamryn's birthday today, but I wanted to post a little something too! Kamryn is such a sweet girl! Her and Layne have a special bond, probably because they spent nearly everyday together last year. I was able to watch Kamryn each afternoon because she only went to school half-day. I always say that Layne gets her strong will and independence from Kam! We love you Kamryn and we hope you have wonderful birthday!!!

It's Friday!

2009-04-03T07:41:00.001-07:00

I hope everyone has had a wonderful week! I just thought I would post a picture of Layne in one of her self-inspired outfits. She loves to dress up, so on the weekends we let her put on whatever she wants to wear around the house. This was her choice a few weekends ago! She is going to get her picture taken with real bunnies tomorrow and she is pretty excited. I just hope she will let me fix her hair (she has not been cooperating lately)!!! Enjoy your weekend!

Flashback to 1910...

2009-03-20T10:38:00.000-07:00

A while back, Jerid had told me about this little icecream parlor downtown in OKC. He said it had been around since 1910 and that we should take a trip to check it out. I was so excited because Jerid and I both LOVE exploring parts of history! It isn't very big, but it's got plenty of nostalgia! They serve lunch, as well as, homemade icecream. Layne's favorite parts were the live band and, of course, the icecream. She wanted "Banilla" and she loved it! So, if anyone is looking for something different and fun to do, you should visit Kaisers. It really is like stepping back in time!!!

We have really been working with Layne on brushing her teeth with real toothpaste. She isn't a big fan of toothpaste, but she is getting better! Her favorite part, of course, is the spitting! Hope everyone has a great weekend!

TGIF!!!

2009-02-27T06:35:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to wish everyone a wonderful weekend! Here's a picture of Layne from a couple of weeks ago. It brightens my day each time I look at it, so I thought it might brighten yours. She just didn't understand why she couldn't wear this outfit to her doctor's appt. And, yes that is orange marker all over her leg. She very often gets "out of the lines" or completely off the page as she colors! I find it funny too, that she is built just like me even at two! The doctor said that based on her height at 2, she should be around 5ft. 6in.!!! This is great news to me. If she can wear a jean that doesn't have to be hemmed or a shoe that is found in the ladies section, then that will make me very happy!

The Big Girl's Room...

2009-02-23T11:59:00.001-08:00

Annie reminded me this morning that I have yet to post any pictures of Layne's "Big Girl" room, so I thought I better get those up! When we moved into our new house in August, I didn't ever do much with her room because I knew we would be changing it sometime around age 2. Then, I decided that I could just suprise her with it for her birthday. It used to be a little boys room that attended a private school. I think this family was pretty "preppy". If you look closely, these are Ralph Lauren bears! I was afraid Layne would be sad to see her beloved bears go, but she hasn't even asked about them.

The Verdict is in...Finally!

2009-02-16T10:37:00.000-08:00

We had our ultrasound today and everything went well! The only problem is that Baby Patterson would NOT cooperate!!! The baby had it's legs crossed and was sitting on them. We tried 4 different times to try to find the gender! The lady had me in all sorts of positions!!! Finally, on the last try, our little one chose to reveal itself to us....

We're having a...

GIRL!!!

We are really excited (and would have been either way)! When we ask Layne if she wants a baby brother or baby sister she always says...two of them. I told her that wasn't going to happen, so she always responds with...a girl! She is going to be so excited to have a baby sister! Of course, it's nice because we already have a ton of girl stuff...now all we have to do is come up with a name! Layne's suggestion was "Grandma Doggy". Though I told her we would add this one to the list, I told her to keep brainstorming!!! Hope everyone has a great week!

Layne's First Stoney Show

2009-02-13T12:03:00.001-08:00

I recently took Layne to her first Stoney Larue concert and she was quite impressed! She loved the music and watching the band move around! It was in Alva at the Fairgrounds, so it was cold! She was bundled up and snuggled in, so she wasn't affected by the cold much. Here are a few pictures that I took before the show...

Though she did fall asleep towards the end of the show, she was a real trooper and enjoyed every moment of it!!! She keeps telling me she wants to watch "Uncle Toney" sing!

Here's a little pic just for fun...I love how she uses her accessories! Have a great weekend!!!

Happy Friday!

2009-02-06T14:49:00.000-08:00

Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!!!

A FAIRY PRINCESS PARTY!

2009-02-04T09:47:00.000-08:00

Layne's party went off without a hitch...well, kind of. After burning the first batch of cupcakes and having to re-frost the cake on Sat. morning. You see, I used the wrong icing recipe the first time, so my decorating turned into a big melted mess. At about 12:30 a.m., I was scraping my melted mess off the cake! Things went a lot better on Sat. Layne was so excited to have most of her family there to celebrate with her! She was such an adorable fairy princess!!! She got lots of wonderful presents including a play kitchen from her Grandma and Grandpa and a table and chairs set from Mammy and Dar. Some of her other favorites were the Tinker Bell doll, princess shoes, and of course the HUGE sack of DUM DUM suckers Uncle Ryan got for her (it's no wonder she adores him)! Jerid and I decided to give her a "Big Girl Room Makeover" for our present. Although, Kandace did most of the work! Thanks again Aunt Kandace! I will reveal those before and after pics later. Here are tons of pics from the party, it was just to hard to pick a few!

Happy Birthday Layne Juleian!

2009-01-30T09:09:00.000-08:00

My little Layneybug is celebrating her 2nd birthday today! I can't believe how big she is and how much she has learned in these past two years! She has such a wonderful personality. I can't wait to see what God has in-store for my little girl!
I know we all say this, but we also all mean it...our children are truly a gift from God. I'm not sure what I did to deserve her, but I'm sure glad that I get to be her Mommy!!! WE LOVE YOU LAYNE!

I will try to post some party pics on Sunday.

Layne just minutes after being born...

Layne on her 1st birthday...

Our Holidays...

2009-01-06T12:02:00.001-08:00

I thought I better get my Christmas pictures up before Layne's birthday. So, here they are. We had a wonderful time visiting with all of our family. Of course, we didn't get to see everyone as we would like. It becomes so difficult when your families keep growing!!!

This is a picture of Layne and Baby Tyler. We had Christmas with Jerid's Grandparents Patterson early in December. We always have such a wonderful time with them. Tyler is Jerid's cousin Keith's baby. I thought this picture was too sweet not to post!

As most of you know, my favorite part of Christmas is the church service the night before, so her's a pic of my sweet, little girl dressed up for church!

On Christmas Eve, Layne gets to open two gifts. One is her Christmas pjs and the other is an ornament. This is the ornament she got from us this year. Her friend Riley got her these plaid pjs that I thought were adorable.

These next few pictures are from Christmas morning. Layne got a red radio flyer tricycle from Santa, but she loved the baby highchair that Jerid and I got her!

I usually get Layne a Disney movie each year and this year was Sleeping Beauty.

These pictures were taken Christmas day at Kandace's house. My parents got Layne this stroller and baby and she played with it all day!

These were taken at Jerid's parents house. Layne loves playing with her cousin Autumn!

This was one of my presents from Jerid. Her name is Molly and she is such a sweet dog!

BIG NEWS!!!

2009-01-02T12:15:00.000-08:00

I have not posted Christmas pictures because I have been too busy or too lazy to take the time, but I promise I will put some up soon! We had a wonderful Christmas and I am kind of sad that it is already over. Layne will be turning 2 on January 30th, so my energy is now focused on getting her "big girl" room ready and planning a birthday party! I will show you before and after pictures of the room once I get going. Anyway, I wanted to share my big news with all of you, so here goes...

No, I am not moving to Nashville...sorry Hilary.

No, I am not pregnant...

Oh wait, yes I am!!!

That's right Layne is going to be a Big Sister!

I am 13 weeks along, so the baby is due July 14th. We are all very excited, we were able to hear the heartbeat at 10 1/2 weeks and are looking forward to finding out the gender in a couple of months. We'll keep everyone posted! Happy New Year!

Christmas Tag!

2008-12-19T06:36:00.000-08:00

Leslie tagged me, so here goes...

1. Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate? I LOVE hot chocolate with marshmallows! I drink it year round! I've tried Egg Nog, but am not a big fan.

2. Does Santa wrap presents or just sit them under the tree? Unwrapped under the tree

3. Colored lights on house/tree or white lights? We just have white, but I can appreciate the colored too. Everyone should do what makes them happy...go Clark Griswald!

4. Do you hang mistletoe? Haven't found any, but would love to!

5. When do you put your decorations up? Usually the Sunday after Thanksgiving

6. What is your favorite holiday dish (excluding dessert)? I love it all!

7. Favorite holiday memory as a child? Going to church on Christmas Eve...it's still my favorite part of Christmas.

8. When and how did you learn the truth about Santa? I remember starting to wonder in 2nd grade... I think Elisha Sutton had something to do with it. Or maybe it was Mandy...thanks again Nathan!

9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve? Yes, Jerid and I get an ornament every year for eachother and we also get one for Layne. I also get Layne Christmas pjs that she opens Christmas Eve and wears.

10. How do you decorate your tree? We got a real tree this year and I love it! So, all our ornaments that we have bought for eachother are on it. We also have a huge tree in our front window that is decorated with ribbon and bulbs.

11. Snow! Love it or dread it? I love it if I don't have to drive in it.

12. Can you ice skate? Never been, but I am dying to try.

13. Do you remember your favorite gift? Everyone in my family knows this one...MY LAKERS JACKET!

14. What is the most important thing about the holidays for you? Being with our families and friends and celebrating the birth of Jesus!!!

15. What is your favorite holiday dessert? Fudge

16. What is your favorite holiday tradition? Going to church and watching Emmit Otter's Jugband Christmas.

17. What tops your Christmas tree? A beautiful Santa

18. Which do you prefer-giving or receiving? Giving...seriously. I never open my presents until after all the kids have opened theirs because I love watching their reactions to each gift!

19. What is your favorite Christmas song? I love all of them, but probably Silent Night. This is the one we light the candles to at church. It is such a peaceful song and it always reminds me of what Christmas is all about.

20. Candy Canes-yum or yuck? They're okay.

21. What do you want for Christmas? There is nothing that I just really want. I like lots of things.

22. Do you attend an annual Christmas party? We usually have one or two, but this year we didn't go to a single party...kind of sad, huh?

23. Do you dress up on Christmas or wear PJs? PJs...who dresses up???

24. Do you own a Santa hat? Yes, but I don't wear it.

25. Who do you normally spend Christmas with? Both of our families.

Okay, I tag Kandace, Amanda U., and Hilary

Flashback Friday

2008-12-18T12:22:00.001-08:00

These are pictures from last Christmas...Layne's first Christmas. She was about 11 months old. I can't believe how much she has changed in the past year! The first picture is of her tree which was rearranged by her on several occasions. Merry Christmas to everyone!!!

6 Random Things

2008-12-15T13:12:00.000-08:00

I have been putting this off because I am extremely busy and don't really have anything interesting to say about myself. But, since Mandy tagged me I figured I better post something...

1. I love Christmas!!! I love sitting in church on Christmas Eve, giving gifts, the sights, the sounds, and especially the excitement of children!

2. I believe the 80's is the best decade of music and will continue to be so for the rest of time.

3. I love to make white rice and then mix in some Italian dressing and...EAT IT!

4. I would rather eat a fruit salad than a piece of chocolate

5. I sleep in socks even though I end up taking them off during the night.

6. I watch shows that I am way too old to be watching for example...The Hills and One Tree Hill.

Thanksgiving...FINALLY!

2008-12-04T13:52:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone enjoyed their Thanksgiving! I love this time of year because I get to spend time with some of my favorite people...my family! We went to Jerid's Grandparent's farm on Thursday. They have several little kitties and Layne loved holding them and kissing them! She also got to spend time with her cousins that she doesn't get to see very often. It was so much fun watching them play together! On Saturday, we had my family over to my house. So, I didn't get many pictures...I was busy cooking etc. But, we had a great time! Unfortunatly, Lance couldn't make it because he had to work. Bedlam just wasn't the same without him, but he'll be home in a few weeks for Christmas! Hope you enjoy the pictures...

I think Layne is going to take after her Aunt Jill...she LOVED the kitties on the farm!

POOR KITTY!

Layne and Carson

Layne with her cousins Kassie and Autumn

A Birthday, Festival, Halloween,and Game Day...We've Been Busy!

2008-11-02T13:09:00.000-08:00

We have had an extremely busy couple of weeks. So, I have posted on several different things. Sorry about the lengthy post and the amount of pictures, but I figured if I didn't post now...well, you might never see any of this!

As most of you know, my nephew recently had a pirate birthday party and asked everyone to dress in their pirate attire. Well, Layne doesn't really have anything like that, so this is what we ended up with...thanks Uncle Stoney for the bandanas!!

C.J Larue fixing to blow out his candles...Happy 4th Birthday Bandit!!! I love you to pieces!

Layne's school recently had their Harvest Festival. They had games, food, and a silent auction. Layne had a lot of fun even though she was a little young to understand the games. Jerid and I won the "Family Game Night" basket at the auction. So, if anyone wants to battle the Patterson's in Dora Memory just let us know!

I helped with Layne's Halloween party at school on Friday. She was not very cooperative. Once I showed up, she wouldn't let me put her down. Annie... I think I have a little Lily on my hands!

When Layne got home from her Halloween party at school, she carved a pumpkin with Dad. She mostly supervised and played with the matches, but she was still very proud of her accomplishments!

My beautiful little witch! I thought my mother did an amazing job on her costume...thanks Grandma!!

Hope everyone had a wonderful Halloween!

Jerid's parents invited us to go to the OSU football game with them on Saturday. We thought it would be fun to let Layne experience her first Cowboy game and she was a trooper! It was very hot, but she had a great time. Thanks Mammy and Dar!!!

Family pic at Layne's first OSU Football Game...GO POKES!!!

Layne with her Dar and cousin Carson before the game.

Layne with her Mammy enjoying the snacks at the game.

Flashback...Thursday?

2008-10-23T12:05:00.001-07:00

I hope it's okay that I am posting my flashback on Thursday instead of Friday. I have today off, so I had a little time to post. Since Halloween is a week from tomorrow, I thought it would be appropriate to flashback to Layne's first Halloween. She was only 10 months, so she didn't really get it. She couldn't figure out why so many kids were ringing her doorbell! This year she understands so much more, so we are looking forward to taking our little witch trick-or-treating!!! Of course, she will just be going to a few of our neighbors homes and maybe stopping by to see her cousins, but it will still be a lot of FUN!!!

My precious little peacock!

This is a picture of Layne and her good friend, Riley Haynes.

It's The Great Pumpkin...Charlie Brown!

2008-10-10T12:10:00.001-07:00

Fall is such a special time of year for my family. It really kicks off the holiday season for us! We love creating memories as a family and starting traditions with Layne. So, last Sunday we were off to the pumpkin patch. Layne was so excited to get some "mumpkins". Before we left, she checked her Halloween Calender for a "kitty" which is her term for Kit-Kat. We then left for the patch and she had an amazing time amongst all the mumpkins! She even picked some of them out all by herself. We ended the day with icecream from Maggie Moo's...YUM!!! Hope everyone is enjoying their Fall! p.s.- I posted 3 times in one sitting...Mandy, have you ever done that??? Be sure to check out the other posts. This is all you will be getting for a while.

Fight For The Cure

2008-10-10T12:01:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday, I took part in the Race For The Cure. Jerid, Kandace, and I got up really early and tackled a 5K which is not a lot, but it sure felt like it to me! Of course, Jerid ran the whole thing with our good friend Derek Elwood. I had to do some walking because I am in terrible shape, but I did run most of it. I think I slowed Kandace down because she is in much better shape than me (yes, the girl with three small kiddos and a husband who is on the road...A LOT!). It was a lot of fun and really neat to be involved in something so important. If you haven't ever taken part in this race...you should really consider it! Here's a few of the before pics...

Game Days

2008-10-10T11:52:00.001-07:00

One of my favorite things about Fall is FOOTBALL! We just can't seem to get enough of it. So, I thought I would share a few pics of our last game day get-together. It is so great having family so close, we always have such a wonderful time when we all get together.

Layne and her daddy waiting for the game to start.

Layne and C.J. spent most of game day playing in the puddles and riding bikes.

Poor Reece...he is always such a good sport!

Flashin Back!

2008-09-26T14:48:00.000-07:00

This is my second blog in two days...Mandy, I know you're proud! Since this is my first official flashback, I chose my favorite subject...Layne. Here are a few pics of the last year and a half. Layne has blessed us in ways we hadn't imagined and we thank God everyday for giving her to us! Enjoy!

Introducing Layne Juleian Patterson
Born January 30, 2007
weighing in at 6lbs. 12oz.
stretching out to 19 3/4 in.
Her middle name is a combination of Jerid and I's moms and sisters!
Do you think Jerid was pretty happy...look at that grin!?!

This is Layne when she was just a few months...I always wonder what she must have been thinking during this picture.

My little girl at Christmas time last year! Loved the hat Leia!

This is my Layneypants at 1 year! Yes, I call her Layneypants...not sure why!

Layne this past spring.

This is my precious little girl at a year and a half (two months ago). She is growing so fast! I love this picture...great job Katie!!!

5 Things Tag

2008-09-25T12:08:00.000-07:00

Here is my list of 5 things...

5 things I was doing 10 years ago...

1. I was a sophmore at OU.
2. I had just made a career choice-teaching.
3. I was living with Kandace, Jayme Hale, and Tasha Johnson
in The Commons.
4. I was babysitting for Chet and Andy aka "The Skinner Boys"
5. I had found one of my passions...Geography!

5 things on my to do list...

1. Clean out my car
2. Clean the house
3. Do laundry
4. Paint the dining and living rooms
5. Go on a "pumpkin date" with Jerid and Layne

5 bad habits...

1. not picking up after myself
2. procrastinating
3. drinking too much dr. pepper
4. watching The Hills
5. shopping too often for Layne or holiday decor

5 places I have lived...

1. Woodward
2. Norman
3. Stillwater
4. Oklahoma City
5. Edmond (though technically, it's still an OKC address)

5 things I am listening to...

1. Austin and Lucy chasing eachother (Kandace's dogs)
2. Pink's "So What"
3. Kandace typing on her blog
4. Me typing on my blog
5. Kandace attempting to sing Pink's "So What"

5 words I hate...

1. Mine,
2. I
3. said
4. no
5. ! This is Layne's new favorite saying and she over-uses it!!!

5 jobs I've had...

1. working at Hillcrest Pharmacy
2. babysitting regularly for the Bogdahn's, Norwood's, and Skinner's
3. OSU mail room...with Annie, Mandy, Katie, Lacy, Leia, and Sally
4. teaching 7-12 grades at Mooreland High School...Go Bearcats! And teaching at PC Capps Middle School 7th grade Geography and cheer sponsor
5. The BEST job in the world...Administrative Assistant to Kandace Phillips at One Chord Song!!!

5 things I have eaten today...

1. smoked ribs
2. fried okra
3. homemade mac and cheese
4. cornbread
5. a fun-sized snickers

We took Lance out to lunch after his swearing in ceremony for the Oklahoma Bar...Don't judge me!

5 websites I visit daily...

1. myspace-I update Stoney's blog daily
2. midfirst bank
3. stoneylarue.com
4. baby gap,old navy,etc. (usually one of these a day)
5. my favorite blogs

Long Time No Blog

2008-09-10T17:57:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! I know it has been nearly a month since my last blog entry and I apoligize. We have been very busy this past month. Layne started going to "school"! It was really difficult for her and her mom in the beginning, but she is doing great now. Leia watched her for a few months until I could get her in somewhere...thanks so much Leia! I know it wasn't always easy. We are all moved in, except for those items still lingering in storage, and we are ready to start making some of the changes we talked about early on. So, I will be showing some of our projects in future blogs. For now, I would like to leave you with some pictures of the last month or two. We celebrated an anniversary, attended a few birthday parties, and moved into a new home! We are so excited for Fall (aka football season) and the upcoming holidays! I'll try not to wait so long before my next blog, I am sure you are all on the edge of your seats.

Jerid and I celebrated our 5th anniversary on July 26th...yea us!

A family picture before Chad's big 30th birthday bash

Layne...checking her myspace...naked.

Alexis, you're right...sleeping while eating just doesn't work!

Layne loves popcorn! Like mother, like daughter!

Anabella Rose celebrated her first birthday. Isn't she beautiful!?!

Home Sweet Home

2008-08-11T07:48:00.000-07:00

We are still working on getting the new house in order and our computer is still not up and working. Since Mandy and Annie have been very patient with me, I thought I better repay their good behavior with atleast one picture of the house. I downloaded this from the county assessor's site, so the yard looks a little bit nicer than it really does right now. But, we are going to start working on that very soon!

I Apoligize

2008-08-06T09:36:00.000-07:00

I am sorry that I have not posted in a while. We are still in the process of unpacking and our computer is not set up yet! I am hoping we can get this worked out over the weekend and I can post some pictures of the house. Don't give up on me...I will post again.

P.S.- Mandy (my sister) and Annie this post is mostly for you two because you are always complaining about how I don't post enough, so stop your sighing and practice your patience. I will put some pics up soon!!!

Our Vacation

2008-07-21T12:42:00.000-07:00

In the midst of selling our home and buying another, Jerid and I decided to go ahead with our planned trip to Angel Fire, NM. Every since I was a young kid, I have loved being in the mountains! We invited our good friends Mitchel and Amanda to share in our adventure. We played golf, went hiking, and ate a lot of wonderful food, but most of all it was VERY RELAXING! Now, it's back to the real world of packing and moving and then unpacking. I will put some pictures up of the new house soon. We did get the one I originally talked about in my previous post. This first picture is from the golf course. I had some doritos in the cart and while we were all putting, a chipmunk got into them! All in all it was a wonderful vacation, but I was happy to get home to my little girl!

Here's the little thief enjoying the fruits of his labor!

The view from our condo

Jerid and I on the golf course

The lake from the hike that Amanda and I took while our husbands stayed at the condo watching sportscenter...like they never get to do that at home!

Amanda and I just before dinner at the Roasted Clove...it was delicious!!!

Here's a pic of Layne just for fun!

Busy Bees

2008-07-01T12:02:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone! Sorry it has been so long since the last post, but we have been extremely busy(hence the title). We have spent the last month getting our house ready to put on the market. We know that we want to move before our kids get in school and involved in other activities, so we thought we would just list it and see what happens. We know we have a few years, so if it doesn't sell...oh well! Needless to say, we put it on the market and it sold in 5 days!!! I can't believe it! We found another home that we LOVE and our waiting to hear back, so I'll keep you updated. Thanks to everyone who helped get our house ready. Jerid's parents came up and worked on the yard. It was in bad shape and they really helped us make it beautiful! Mandy helped with some staging, most of you know how wonderful she is at that stuff. And Lance, poor Lance. He had the "pleasure" of keeping Layne (along with Reece and Kamryn) while I cleaned my house during the day. Thanks to all of you!
I am starting my new job with One Chord Song tomorrow! I am so excited. This is Kandace and Stoney's management company, so I will be working for Kandace. So, not only is she back in Oklahoma, but I get to see her everyday and get paid for it! It will still be work, but I can't think of a more ideal job!
So, now to the pictures. Layne's hair was looking very bad, so I attempted to cut her bangs...BIG MISTAKE. I took her to Christi (yes, this is Chad's Christi) to get the mullet cut and the bangs fixed. Layne was very good and really enjoyed it!

She was so still and patient...YES, Layne WAS PATIENT!

Here's Layne and Christi after the cut was complete!

Happy Birthday to Me...and Kandace!

2008-06-02T11:33:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I celebrated my 29th birthday! My husband got up with Layne at 7:00 so that I could sleep in. About 2 hours later, Layne came in attempting to carry a bouquet of flowers and cards. Layne got me an hour massage...I guess she feels bad for breaking my back each and every day! Jerid is getting me some new tennis shoes. I haven't bought a new pair in a few years, so he figured it was time. We went to dinner and then stopped by Braums for some birthday icecream!

Look Out Sam Woods...

2008-05-31T12:45:00.000-07:00

For those of you who don't know who Sam Woods is...she is the daughter of Tiger Woods. For those of you who don't know who Tiger Woods is...well, I can't help you! This was Layne's first golf outing and she had a wonderful time. She loved roaming endlessly around the course and taking in all the sights and sounds. She putted her ball around a little. Of course, she soon got impatient and figured out that she could get her ball in that little hole much faster using her hands!

Memorial Weekend Fun!

2008-05-30T07:27:00.000-07:00

So, I am a little late posting Memorial Weekend pictures, but I've been busy...you understand. We had a great weekend. Kandace and the kids came for the long weekend as did my parents. We all went to watch Reece play baseball on Saturday and Sunday evening we cooked out with friends and family. Layne's Mammy and Dar (Jerid's parents) even stopped by for a little while! In this first picture Layne is ready to go to the game, so she has to put on her jewlrey. She is such a girl!!!

Kamryn and Bella Boo are ready for the big game!

I realize this picture isn't very clear, but I had to put one up of Reece. He pitched this game and did a great job!

Miss Avery looking so adorable in Layne's sunglasses (size 0 to 2 years)! Doesn't she look like her Momma?

Watching Reece's game wore all the kids out. This is what it looked like in the back of my car when we got home. C.J. really looks up to Reece, so he was so happy to get to watch him play baseball. On the way to the game, he kept telling me "This is going to be so so so great!!!" And, "Reece is so so so fast!" He melts my heart!

Layne spent the last evening of this beautiful weekend taking a dip in the pool. She had a blast even though the water was FREEZING! It reminded me of what it was like being a kid...you were never too cold in a pool and you were never too hot at an amusement park (even in July)!

Forgot 3 Goals!!!

2008-05-22T08:27:00.000-07:00

I forgot to list my goals on my last post! I figure if I am forced to think about them, then I might start working towards them!

My goals...

1. Give my children a happy childhood (this is my longterm goal)

2. Get my house in condition to sell...just in case!

3. Be great at my new job!!!

I've Been Tagged!

2008-05-22T07:38:00.000-07:00

So, I've been Tagged! Here's how to play the game of Tag: Post these rules on your blog and complete. List 3 joys, 3 fears, 3 goals, 3 current obsessions/collections, and 3 random or surprising facts about yourself. Tag 5 people at the end of your post by leaving their names. Let them know they are tagged by leaving them a comment on their blog. And by all means, HAVE FUN!!

My 3 Joys...

1. My beautiful little girl Layne

2. My amazing husband Jerid

3. My family...especially all my nieces and nephews

My 3 Fears...

1. spiders

2. car wrecks

3. my family or friends gettting hurt or sick

My Obsessions/Collections

1. mls gateway ( I am addicted to house hunting...thanks Kandace!)

2. Christmas

3. Dr. Pepper...some things never change!

Facts about me...

1. I LOVED being pregnant!!!

2. My family is EVERYTHING to me!

3. Sometimes, just watching Layne brings tears to my eyes!

If you haven't been tagged already...consider yourself tagged!!!

Congrats to Lance!

2008-05-12T15:14:00.000-07:00

Saturday was a very big day in our family. My little brother graduated from OU Law School. If you know Lance, then you know how long he has been working towards this achievement. He is extremely smart and disciplined. He has finally reached his goal in education and his family could not be more proud of him! Congrats Lance!!!

The proud parents!

Of course, this is where Layne stayed during the entire graduation...snuggled in to her Uncle Ryan. It sure made my job easy! Thanks Uncle Ryan!!!

I had a wonderful Mother's Day! Jerid and Layne got me Cindi Lauper tickets! We spent the day working on the house and in the yard, but I was with my family and that's all that mattered to me. Hope everyone enjoyed their Mother's Day!

Swimsuit Season

2008-05-08T15:14:00.000-07:00

This is Layne's new swimsuit. She wanted to put it on and then refused to take it off. She wore it around the house most of the day! She is built like her Mama (a little junk in the trunk), but she is above average in height! Yea!!!

What a dad will do for his daughter...

2008-05-08T15:01:00.000-07:00

It has been a while since my last post, so I thought I better put something up! This was taken a while back, but I get such a kick out of it. Layne and her daddy were spending some "quality" time together while I was loading the dishwasher. When I went to check on them...this is what I found! Apparently, Layne demanded that her dad put each and every one of these in. She just kept handing them to him. He is such a sucker when it comes to his little girl, so he gladly obliged!!! So...Leia, even though Layne won't keep her bows in, I wanted you to know they were being used!

All Dressed Up!

2008-04-24T13:13:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, my good friend Bart got married...FINALLY! I was excited because it was a good excuse to get dressed up! And as you moms know, those ocassions don't happen very often! I even painted my toenails...I was like a new woman!!! The wedding was beautiful and we were able to visit with many friends we hadn't seen in years!

Here is Kandace and I.

This is me and my gorgeous husband Jerid!

The Seasons of Layne

2008-04-24T12:32:00.000-07:00

Since I just started my blog, I thought I would share some pics of Layne from the past several months. This first one is on Halloween. Layne is a little peacock! Don't ask me how I came up with this! Many of you know that most of my ideas are a little out there!

This is Layne in her Christmas dress...she thought she was pretty fancy!!!

Here Layne is eating her birthday cake...I think she likes it!

Layne had so much fun on her 1st birthday that she fell asleep on her "Rockin Elephant" that Jerid and I got her.

This is Layne on Easter morning rumaging through what the Easter Bunny left her. She wore these bunny ears most of the day!

This is Layne hunting Easter eggs after church in Woodward. She was so proud that she "found" five eggs! The older kids were so sweet! They were careful not to pick up any of the eggs around her.

My First Post

2008-04-23T12:48:00.000-07:00

Those of you who know me know that I am not a writer. I am not witty or creative. And I am very much vocabulary- challenged. I decided to start a blog because I enjoy reading everybody's blogs and I thought this would be a good way to keep family and friends updated. I have been married to my husband Jerid for almost 5 years and we have an amazing daughter Layne who turned one on January 30th. I spent the last several years teaching 7th grade Geography, but decided to stay home with Layne this year. It has been an unforgettable experience and I have enjoyed nearly every moment of it, but I have decided that Layne and I both need to interact with people our own ages. So, I will be starting a new adventure working for Kandace's management company while Layne learns to socialize with others. I will try to post as often as possible, but probably not as much as Mandy...I have to say, I am very impressed! Hope you enjoy!!!