Jack Settles in at Home

We haven't been very good about taking pictures, but here are a few. We have had a lot of help from our parents, neighbors, and friends while Rhett attempts to keep a normal work schedule and I attempt to recover from the bladder surgery. We are so appreciate of all the help and support we've had from everyone. Rhett's grandparents made the long drive from Kansas City to meet Jack. Jack sure enjoyed all the attention he received from his great grandparents.

Jack was named after his Great Grandad Jack. Baby Jack sat with his Great Grandad for hours over the weekend. I think both Jacks were extremely happy!

Great Grandma even got a smile!

Raly has been a big help. She likes to feed him, but refuses to burp him or change diapers! Bummer!

In the Hospital

Raly and Reese visited often while Jack and I were in the hospital. Jack is on the "light table" behind Reese because he had jaundice. Jack is about to be dressed to go home...finally!

Raly and Jack

Block Party

Mid August - Block Party Time

Raly enjoyed the water games!

Reese loved batting the pinata...

and blowing the whistle as loud as he could for Grandad!

Raly loved all the time she spent with her girlfriends!

Several families weren't able to participate this year, but we still had plenty of kids to participate in the games!

Construction is Complete

Prior to construction: After Construction:

So it's a little difficult to visualize, but now instead of the vaulted ceiling, we have a bedroom, bathroom and small study area. Here is Raly's bathroom (you get to the bathroom by entering her bedroom).


Raly's bedroom: In this picture you can see three of the small square windows that you can see in the top "before construction" picture.


Study area:

Main floor before construction:

Main floor after construction

It was quite a long and expensive process, but very worth it. We opted to do all the painting and since I'm pregnant, Rhett had to take on this daunting task. He did a amazing job! He's now an expert, but I wouldn't ask him for any painting favors just yet!

First Day of First Grade!

I had planned to get a picture of Raly in her first grade line, but there were so many parents, strollers and kids that Reese and I weren't able to stand near the line, so this is Raly giving me a hug before squeezing through all the people to get into her line. When she came home, she told me that she would rather go back to Kindergarten or Preschool.

One other important note about first grade: Raly is now wanting to be called by her "real name." So her teacher and all of her classmates call her Aralya.

Cheerleading Camp

Raly participated in a week long cheerleading camp late in July. On Friday, parents were invited for their performance. She enjoyed her camp and would like for me to find a weekly cheerleading class for her to attend. We shall see...life with soccer, flag football, girl scouts, catholic education class, etc. not to mention doing it all with a newborn...