Cayden's new playground!!

For Cayden's 2nd birthday, his grandma got him a playground for the back yard. Since we live out of town, he didn't have anything really to play on. Although it's super hot, we have been able to head out back to play a few times. I'm looking forward to the Fall when we can truly appreciate his gift. I'm even a little excited about it. It won't be too long before both Cayden and Mckinley will be playing on it together. Thanks to Uncle Matt, the project went smoothly and was completed within the weekend!!


Goofing off on the job!!!

Just a swingin'!!!

Cayden's 2nd Birthday!!!

Cayden turned 2 on July 11th. We headed to Tomball to celebrate with family and a few friends. I can't even begin to put into words how quickly time flies. We all know it, but really, it's sad how quickly your babies grow up. Although the main reason we all came together was to celebrate Cayden, it was also sweet for everyone to get to spend some time together. Michael and his girlfriend, now fiance, Katie, recently got engaged, so seeing them was a real treat. We're all super thrilled for them and look forward to her being our new sister.


My aunt Irene and uncle Michael have the perfect home for a birthday party. We swam, ate, and played games all day. I personally really enjoyed the whole day with my family and friends. Here Cayden is on top of their rockwall that later turned into a fabulous jumping spot.


Cayden in his swimming "getup"


Cody and Lizzie Riedel and Corey and Cayden


Grandma and Mckinley



I'm pretty happy with the way our cake turned out. It was a group effort, mainly run by Emily, but input was gathered from Matthew, Michael, Mom and Katie. Mom had the 'great idea' to make a cupcake cake ourselves. "It'll be fun," she said. Well, after 4 trips to the store and waiting until 9pm the night before, we set out to make this cake. We wanted it to be a dump truck, and I think we succeeded. Emily did a great job making the cake and managing all the "bakers" in the kitchen. Yes mom, it was a great idea.





Happy Birthday Cayden!!!





Tickle torture Cayden!! Somehow Michael is able to play and hold Mckinley at the same time!




Ok, Cayden is almost 3...or so it seems. It'll be here soon.

July 4th weekend!!

So, it's still sinking in that Corey is off for such holidays as July 4th and what timing too. Before we had kids, he was always working miserable hours and consequently left me alone on such fun holidays. This year Corey's dad headed our way and we spent the weekend with him and the other Wheelers, aka Brent, Candice, Noah and Haley. Although there were no actual fireworks involved, I appreciated the extra day off, time with family and celebrating with lots of eating.


Noah in the background with Corey and Cayden.



Friday we headed to the YMCA pool for some swimming. Mckinley didn't make it in, but she came dressed to impress. The rest of the day included lunch at Bill Millers, naptime and then we went over to Brent's house for dinner.


Grandpa, Brent, Noah and Haley during swim break.



Boys...enough said!!



When the Wheeler boys get together, there always seems to be horseplay involved. It's just a matter of time before Haley and Mckinley are in there too!!



Not sure if that's fair!!!


Sweet cousins... Noah and Cayden. Cayden just loves Noah and he almost daily asks for "Wowa." Noah brings out the fun, silly side of him and I'm so grateful that his cousin plays such a big role in his life.

Mckinley's faces

What a difference just a few weeks make. Mckinley has developed quite the charm and tends to smile at just about anything these days...reading recipes, going over the grocery list and even seems to understand and enjoy Cayden's gibberish. They have their own language these days. I just love all the expressions and sometimes find myself just staring at her.

Yep, she's mastering the wink!!


What movie does this remind you of?