Makenna and Camille

The Pumpkin Patch

2011-10-24T18:21:00.000-04:00

We love the Pumpkin Patch. We went to McDonald's Farm a few weeks ago. It was a beautiful day. As you can see we all had fun. The girls were so excited to get home and carve their pumpkins. We made them wait until a few days ago.

Weight Limit?

2011-10-24T18:12:00.000-04:00

How many grandkids can Grandpa fit on the 4 Wheeler? All of them! (Except for Little Lydia) Yes, that is right he had all 6 kids on the 4 wheeler for a ride. Makenna got the best seat - right up front, Grandpa, Cami, Addi, Gracie, Ayla and Ezra. Oh and don't forget Leeza the dog in the front basket :0)

Serious Talks

2011-10-19T20:33:00.000-04:00

Makenna has been talking about driving lately. I mean about getting her driver's license. So I thought I better just nip this in the bud and tell her she won't be driving because her vision is so poor. Well in the midst of my explanation about eyesight and needing to see when driving (I am anticipating tears and lots of questions.) Makenna pipes in with "Who is going to take me to see you when you are dead?" Really?! That is the pressing question? So we talked about all the people that love her and will be able to drive her around when I am old and gone. That girl's mind keeps me hopping.

Cami is really interested in directions and watching where we are going. So one morning on our way to Rhonda's house (our babysitter) I take a different turn. Cami notices that we are going the way we go when we get groceries and things.
Cami, "Where are we going mom? Are you getting gas?
Mom, "Not this morning Cami we got gas yesterday."
Cami, "Are we going shopping?"
Mom, "No, Cami we are stopping at the bank to get some money."
Cami, "Why do you need money?"
Mom, "I need to pay Rhonda."
Cami, "Why Mommy, Rhonda doesn't have any money?"

Disney World!

2011-08-21T13:48:00.000-04:00

We had a fabulous time at Disney World. We shared this trip with my parents and Jay's sister Peggy and her family. The kids all had a wonderful time and so did the adults. It really is a Magical place. We loved the Illumination show on the side of the castle(which had pics of Makenna and Ayla at Bibbidi, Bobbidi, Boutique) and Wishes (the fireworks show at Magic Kingdom.) It was so hot the entire time we were there. I don't think I have ever been that hot in my life. The good thing was the lines really weren't too long. We either had great timing or the numbers were down while we were visiting.

First character - Minnie Mouse

The Whole Gang headed out on our first morning.

Cami dancing at Playhouse Disney with Ezra

Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage - front row seats - AMAZING!

I love this picture of Cami - she is watching a parade. It just says it all about Disney World.

Ezra and Ayla. Ezra loves anything Toy Story.

Cami was wiped out after our first morning at a park.

Another favorite - Cami and Daddy watching a parade.

Pocahontas with the girls. She was beautiful!

Photo opp at Animal Kingdom.

Jay was picked to participate in the Lion King Show. He had to teach us the Wart Hog call.

Cami dropped her original ice cream cone. A very nice cast member made sure she got a replacement. As you can see it made her day.

Ezzy with his icecream!

We saw Goofy at Playhouse Disney. Cami said, "I want to kiss him!" We finally met him in person the next day. She loved all the characters. She wasn't a bit shy :0)

We caught Pluto on the last day on our way out of the park. Thank goodness - Cami was so excited.

Another beauty - Rupunzel. She thought Flynn Rider would love my 31 satchel, however, he wouldn't be there until November.

Everyone loved the castle.

Goofy - at Chef Mickey's. Poor Ezra wasn't feeling well so he missed out on breakfast.

Donald Duck

Minnie Mouse

Cami giving Mickey a kiss.

Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique

Makenna thought there would be a ball to attend. She wanted to dance - so we danced!

Last day at Disney World.

Oh my Goodness - they are holding Tinkerbell!!

Norman Family - Peggy, Devin, Ezra and Ayla

The Normans and Susils in front of the castle.

The prettiest Cinderella I have ever seen.

Photo shoot.

Pretty girl

Seeing herself for the first time.

Lovely

Getting her hair put into the princess bun.

CHARGE Syndrome Conference

2011-08-20T14:07:00.000-04:00

A friend from "across the pond" teaching Cami to hula hoop.

Belinda and Cami having a squeeze.

Makenna the cat.

Makenna dancing at the party.

We attended the CHARGE Syndrome Conference in Orlando, FL this past July. It is hard to describe the experience. Basically, over 800 people associated with CHARGE Syndrome converge in a conference center for a weekend every two years. It is an amazing, overwhelming, emotional, draining and energizing time. Every time we attend a conference, I think to myself don't be disappointed if you don't get as much out of it this year. Yet every year, I learn something new and love it just as much as the first time we attended. It is a wonderful experience to get to interact with professionals that understand and love working with people with CHARGE. My favorite part is meeting families, individuals and old friends to talk, compare and just understand each other. It is an experience like no other. One professional put it nicely when he said that the love we have for our children is palpable it is in the air, however, it is not just the parents. It is the other family members, friends, grandparents, professionals, the sign language interpreters, everyone in attendance has this love for these children/adults with CHARGE Syndrome. Every single person at that conference is so invested in individuals with CHARGE Syndrome. It is like a huge family reunion. These words are just not doing the conference justice. I feel very blessed that we have been fortunate enough to attend every conference since Makenna was 4 years old.

A Picture Walk of our the last Ten Months

2011-08-19T15:12:00.029-04:00

driving the jeep at COSI

Could she be any cuter in headphones?

watch out for the t rex

Kenna with the shock ball

the whole gang - Jack, Carson Sarah, Cami and Makenna

COSI

Dinosaur feet

Makenna at Black Water Falls

Makenna, Daddy and Papaw checking out the view.

Papaw and his camping girls on the top of the mountain.

Daddy and girls in the valley

More exploring

Love to ride

Camping buddies

Family photo

Makenna and her buddy Marissa

I love my girls.

Ready for their recital.

Makenna is ready for lunch

Long day of ATVing

Addi and Cami exploring the rocks

Makenna and Grandpa on the 4 wheeler

Trampoline with Uncle Brian

Head first! Memorial day fun.

All dressed up to cheer sissy on at baseball.

Kenna has it down pat.

Cami practicing with the Vipers - look at that form.

Winter dance recital at Sunny View Nursing home

Easter Sunday

Kenna's working hard

Easter eggs

Time for Baseball

Santa at Nana and Baba's

The Susil cousins - Makenna, Camille, Addison, Lydia, Ayla and Ezra

Oops out of order - more Christmas morning

Makenna's 10th birthday!

Ready for Christmas Mass

My Cuties

Better day for Christmas card photos

Christmas at Nana and Baba Miller's house

Serious discussion about what she wanted for Christmas.

Waiting patiently for her turn on Santa's lap.

Maybe not a good night for Christmas card photos.

Makenna and Santa - she asked if Santa got her gift at Walmart?!

Cami loves to tap.

Christmas dance recital

Trying for a Christmas Card picture.

The beloved pack pack. She wore this nonstop and took it everywhere - great buy :0)

Some help from big sis - opening birthday presents

What a two year old does when she finds a marker!

Happy 2nd Birthday Camille Rose!

Jack- o - Lantern and Tinkerbell

Finished product!

Makenna and pumpkin

Jack, Matthew, Cami and Makenna ready for trick or treat!

Girls with their pumpkins

Carson's birthday: Sarah, Cami, Jack, Makenna and Carson

Makenna

So I have obviously gotten way behind on my blogging. By the time I was ready to catch up it was just too overwhelming. I have decided to do a picture walk of the last ten months and start fresh from there. Enjoy!

Columbus Zoo

2010-10-19T06:57:00.005-04:00

So tired.

Makenna on safariWe brought home an elephant!

Gorillas

Girls liked the gorilla

This one was picking his nose and eating it - as Cami said "ucky!" One little girls' mom told her "see isn't it gross that is why I tell you to stop," the girl responded "I am not doing that anymore it is disgusting!"

Cami and her pal

Flamingos

Tiger exhibit

Elephants

This was a neat stump we wandered upon.

We waited for cooler weather to take the girls to the zoo this year. It was an amazing trip. The weather was perfect and the girls were able to see almost all of the animals. Camille enjoyed the monkeys, chimps, etc. If you ask her she will say she liked the cows the best. Of course, Cami was just amazed with all the poo we saw at the zoo. Makenna says the bears and penguins were her favorite and her least favorite were the birds (I have to agree with that one.) I think Makenna really liked the ice cream treat the best. They were exhausted after our four hour trip and both girls conked out on the ride home.

Pigeon Roost Farms

2010-10-19T06:49:00.005-04:00

Ghost

Kitty cat

cow

AHH

my sweeties

Peek - a -b00

rocking horse

Ty, Kenna and Chris on the train

Scary Ghost!

We went to the Pigeon Roost Farms a few weeks ago. It is a bit of a drive but I recommend it for anyone with kids. We had a GREAT time. They have endless activities for children. Corn box, straw box, rabbits, camels, cows, goats, peacocks, turkey, corn maze, little corn maze that was only a foot high so you could see the kids, an Enchanted Forest, rocking horses, slides, numerous play areas, play area designed for older children, games, face painting, shopping, and of course pumpkins.

More Gymnastics

2010-09-29T19:16:00.003-04:00

Working on our mount

walking on the beam

keeping the balloon in the air with daddy.

bear crawl up the parallel bars - she did really great with this skill

Stick it Cami.

almost over

back flip!

So cute in her leotard!

A few more pictures from another week of gymnastics. Daddy came with us and captured the fun. He also helped out when mommy was tired. Cami loves her gymnastics class. I think she just loves all the activity. She runs and runs.

Special Riders

2010-09-29T18:53:00.003-04:00

All geared up!

Riding with Brenda's help.

Fashionista!

Another session of Special Riders has begun. Makenna is in heaven - she just loves to ride the horses. This year she is riding Chief. She was chosen to lead the exercises this week. She also tossed bean bags through a hula hoop. Cami had fun with her purse (a lunch bag), my keys and my sunglasses. She thought she was quite the grown up girl. Makenna ended up with her picture in the Times Recorder for an article about Special Riders. This is a great program that the Carr Center offers two times a year for six week sessions. Thank you to all the volunteers, Carr Center staff and all the people who bring the horses for the kids to ride.

McDonald's Pumpkin Patch

2010-09-27T19:56:00.004-04:00

Makenna, Aunt Cassie and Cami

Mommy and her beautiful girls.

Makenna coming down the slide.

Cami, Makenna, Jack and Cameron

Cassie, Makenna and Jack on the wagon.

Melissa, Gus and Maddie

Gray on the wagon ride.

Juna, Ella and Ty telling Tiff about the cows.

Braxton, Cami and Ty in the corn.

Some of our pumpkins, Makenna is being a monster (pumpkings = Halloween)

Sunday we met a bunch of friends at McDonald's Pumpkin Patch. Cassie, Jack and Cameron were nice enough to go with me to help with the girls. We started out in the corn maze, which was the Ohio State script. I checked out the map and found out that if you stay on a straight path and not make turns you can get through it quickly. I was happy about that I am a little claustrophobic in those mazes. The older boys had fun getting lost on purpose. Next, we found the play area with sand boxes filled with corn, giant slides and a petting zoo. The girls loved the corn. Makenna went down the slides a few times with the help of Jack and Cameron. Next up was the wagon ride. We went by some cows, a donkey and a lot of poo, which of course Cami liked to point out. Once off the ride, the boys headed back to the maze. Cassie and Makenna checked out some baked goods and Cami finally caught up to her friends - Ty, Maddie, Braxton, Reese, Xander, Riley, Ella and Gray. They were headed to the wagon ride so we had to ride again. We ended the afternoon picking out some great pumpkins. What a GREAT way to end a BEAUTIFUL weekend. Thanks Juna for inviting us :0)

Family Fun Day at the Benson's

2010-09-27T19:48:00.004-04:00

Cami is riding with Lillian.

Kenna all buckled in and ready to go.

Cami's favorite - cow

The fainting goat.

Bounce house fun

Everyone is falling down.

Saturday we were invited to the Benson's to enjoy a Family Fun Day. CMA Church had the fun day to kick off the start of Friendship Parties this year. The girls had a great time. They went in the bounce house, checked out all the animals: fainting goats, a cow, a goose, ducks, peacocks, turkeys, and llamas. Cami said she liked the cow the best. We went on an ATV ride through the woods. We checked out their awesome pond that has a dock with a diving board and a zip line to ride to the pond. It also had a fountain and was great for fishing. Daddy couldn't go with us so we skipped the fishing and it was way to cold for the Susil girls to enjoy swimming. We also had a great cookout. Thank you Benson family for a fabulous Saturday afternoon.

Following Directions

2010-09-27T19:44:00.001-04:00

Cami loves when her sister gets a bath. One evening she asked about Makenna and I told her she was in the tub. The next minute she went running past me into the bathroom with her B in hand. Her B is her binky with a blanket attached. She had swiped it out of her crib. I told her not to get her B wet because she wouldn't have it for bed. (She loves to throw things in the tub.) Jay came by a few minutes later and asked if I had seen what Cami did. I was sure she put that B in the water. I went in the bathroom and found her B sitting on the toilet lid, however, Cami was in the tub with her sister - fully clothed! Sorry for the bad photography trying to get Cami without sissy in the picture :0) Anyway Cami did follow directions - she didn't get her B wet!

Independence

2010-09-27T19:40:00.003-04:00

Cami is becoming very independent. She is very insistent on which shoes she will wear on a daily basis. This is one battle I have decided not to fight - so she wears her brown dress shoes - just about everywhere and with just about anything. I can't find one of them so tomorrow morning should be fun. I hope it is in the backseat somewhere.

Where is the money?

2010-09-27T19:35:00.003-04:00

Cami came to me the other morning and asked my for her pig (piggy bank). I got it down for her and watched what she was doing. She was getting all the change from her dad's night stand and putting them it in her piggy bank :0) It was really cute. Makenna was worried to death that Cami was going to eat the money. What a good big sister!

First Day of School 2010

2010-08-31T19:35:00.004-04:00

Makenna's first day at OSD was August 24, 2010. I am a little late getting the photos uploaded. She is in the third grade. There are 4 other students in her room. Her teacher is Mrs. MacFarland. Should be an interesting year.

Gymnastics

2010-08-28T14:14:00.003-04:00

Our friends Tiffanee and Braxton on the bar.

Cami on the beam.

Cami doing her exercises

Getting some chalk - it ended up on her face!

Tasting that chalk.

Taking Maddie's turn on the bars.

Today was our second gymnastics session. Cami had a great time and did better today than she did last week. She attempted all the stations except headstands. She refuses that one every time. She prefers to go to the station ahead of us because that is where Maddie is. So Cami spent much of her time with Juna and Maddie today. She did much better listening to Juna too. Juna had a great idea of switching kids next week:0) Today we did exercises, front and back rolls, swinging on the bar, hanging on the bar doing the pike position, balance beam, trampoline, rope swing, headstands, basketball, jumps on the spring board and sticking landings. It is a cute class to watch.

Makenna goofing around with my camera

2010-08-28T09:14:00.003-04:00

These photos are Makenna's creations while waiting at a doctor's appointment this summer. They are just lovely. You can see by the one I snapped that she thought it was just too funny.

Muskingum County Fair

2010-08-28T09:12:00.001-04:00

Well I have already blogged about our fair experience so here are just a few pictures to document the fabulous day.

Mischievous Camille

2010-08-28T09:09:00.002-04:00

Cami is our mischievous child. She loves to climb and explore everything in site. This is a day when she climbed into a TV stand. Makenna came to me and said, "Uh oh Mommy, Cami." She looks like she is having a great time.

Frazeysburg Homecoming Parade

2010-08-28T09:04:00.003-04:00

Makenna is ready for some candy!

Braxton, Makenna, Ty, Maddie, Lauren, 2 of Lauren's cousins and Cami all enjoying some candy after the parade.

Cami and Makenna grabbing some candy.

Makenna waiting for the next round, Cami making sure she didn't miss anything.

We went to the Frazeysburg Homecoming Parade. Thanks Melissa for the great seats :0) Makenna was excited to see so many kids she knew. Cami was all about getting the candy being thrown to us. She beat her sister out of many pieces of candy!

Haircuts, before and after

2010-08-28T09:01:00.002-04:00

after

Before

after

before

Well here is the reveal of the haircuts. It is a few weeks late. Better late than never, right? Makenna did great as usual. Cami, however, had a difficult time sitting for her cut.

Misplaced camera!!

2010-08-20T20:11:00.002-04:00

Well we have had a busy week but I will have to document by word only because I left my camera at my sister-in-law's house and she lives an hour away.

Monday was uneventful. I tried to clean up a little, did lots of laundry and caught up on the vegetable garden.

Tuesday we went to the fair. I thought Cami would absolutely LOVE the animal barns. Lets just say not so much. She looked at the animals but wanted nothing to do with touching them. We saw Mark Baughman, who so graciously let us pet his sheep, but Cami just couldn't bring herself to touch them. Makenna was too interested in her ice cream at the point. We were also able to get up close and personal to the grand champion turkey, thanks to the nice owners, but Cami wanted nothing to do with it. Makenna touched it but wasn't impressed and so it went through each animal barn. Makenna was irritated each time we stopped for anything - she wanted to walk, walk, walk. I think she was thinking the quicker we make it through this stupid fair the quicker I get my ice cream. (She was promised ice cream before we left, should have thought that through a little better.)

Wednesday we were planning on going swimming at Marianne's with her girls and Cassie and Jack. We woke up to cloudy skies and a cold morning. So we ditched the swimming and went grocery shopping instead. NOT FUN! Cami was in major fit mode and not being so nice to her big sissy in the little shopping cart car. After a nap we headed to Aunt Peggy's to get hair cuts. Makenna had about 4 or so inches taken off - it looks pretty cute. Cami had the ends trimmed up and the back taken up a little. I have cute before and after pictures of both - however - the camera is elsewhere.

Thursday was more gardening work, freezing corn and lima beans. Makenna had speech therapy and we took Cami's supplies to the baby sitter so she is ready to start on Monday. I also finally got the kitchen in the camper cleaned out. Only thing left to do in the camper is the linens!

Today Makenna and I went to Children's to visit the audiologist. Waiting for approval for new hearing aids that may be able to boost her hearing back up to the normal range. Super excited to hear that news. Stopped at target to get a couple pairs of pants for school. When we came back into town we went to West M. to pick up all of her equipment to take to OSD on Monday. Finally, this evening the three of us cleaned out mommy's car for the start of the new school year. Inside is shining, just need to run it through the car wash tomorrow and we will be set :0)

A Year with Frog and Toad.

2010-08-04T19:41:00.004-04:00

Jack with his fans - Makenna, Matthew and Carson.

The final bow!

Jack as "Frog"

My nephew Jack was the star in a play at the Zanesville Theatre. He was Frog and did a wonderful job singing and dancing on stage. I couldn't believe my eyes. I have no idea where he gets his talent and his confidence to get up there and perform. Great Job Jack you made us PROUD!

Wild, Wonderful West Virginia

2010-08-04T09:33:00.006-04:00

Cami taking Makenna for a walk.

Dolly Sods

The Family at Dolly Sods

It is so cold and windy at the top of Dolly Sods the trees only have branches on one side!

Makenna on Bear rock at Dolly Sods.

Cami's turn.

Grandpa and Cami taking a walk

There were butterflies everywhere you turned.

Grandpa, Leeza, Makenna, Daddy and Camille

Mommy and all the girls on a walk

So tired of riding

Beautiful - don't let go of my girls Jay!

Kenna and Granpa 4 wheeling

the girls at Blackwater Falls

Blackwater Falls

The Gang

Cami and Addi being silly.

Pretty views

Daddy and Cami driving the rhino.

We headed to the mountains of West Virginia for some rest, relaxation and ATV adventures. We had a great time with Grandpa Joe, Aunt Lain, Uncle Richard and Addi! Cami and Addi became great buddies while we were there. I think the funniest conversation I heard was in the Rhino when Addi said, "Cami I peed," and Cami replied, "Oh, crap!" I have no idea where she got that saying but it was pretty funny coming from a one year old. Those two loved riding around in the back of the rhino. They had lots of snacks, slept and looked for deer, bears and fish while we were driving around. We saw many butterflies, some deer and even a bear! We found a few bear tracks and saw evidence of bears all over the place. The scenery was gorgeous! Makenna had a GREAT time riding the 4 wheeler with her grandpa! She loves the excitement of the wind in her hair (even though we didn't go more than 5 miles per hour!) We climbed some pretty big rocks to see the great views. Makenna was a trooper through the whole thing. She walked a little and rode piggy back through the most difficult terrain. My girls are true outdoors women.

40th Reunion! at the Armentrouts'

2010-08-04T09:19:00.004-04:00

The Whole Extended Gang

Dee, Ray, Butch, Dale, Joe, Buddy

We spent the weekend prior to vacation at Butch and Peg Armentrout's house to celebrate the 40th reunion of when some wonderful men met. Joe, Butch, Dale, Buddy, Ray and Dee all met while fighting in Vietnam. They have formed a special bond that has never been broken over the years. They are like extended family and we treasure every moment we are able to spend with them. It was a little bittersweet this year with the absence of Carolyn. Thanks for a great weekend Butch and Peg!

Play date!

2010-07-16T13:39:00.004-04:00

Playing on the play yard.

Watch the swing Cami!

Tiffanee holding Carter and Braxton - the boys have the same outfit!

Snack time! Braxton, Hannah, Abbie, Makenna, Toby, Juna, Lahney and Maddie

Hannah, Tiffanee, Makenna, Cami and Lori with Carter in the background.
Everyone enjoying some snacks.

We enjoyed a great morning have a play date with some friends. The Garbers, Brownriggs, Doyles, Searls and Knowltons came over to play. That was a total 12 little ones. Everyone had a great time! We will have to repeat this again and again.

The Outer Banks

2010-07-16T13:20:00.005-04:00

Daddy and Makenna way out in the sound.

Digging in the sand

Baba and Makenna on one of their MANY walks.

Girls playing in the little shade we had on the beach!

Cami wants out of the huge hole Baba found in the sand.

Finding pretty shells - Cami's favorite activity

Mama and the girls

Daddy and Cami checking out the ocean for the first time.

Baba and Makenna

Cami is not too sure about the water rushing in - Makenna loves it!

Heading out to the beach our first evening in OBX!

Here are a few pictures from our short trip to the Outer Banks. We enjoyed beautiful weather and a great campground while we were there. We also ate some delicious seafood - yummy!

Tribute to Mamaw Susil (Carolyn Susil)

2010-07-05T20:20:00.008-04:00

Ayla, Carolyn and Makenna

Clyde, Carolyn and Makenna

Carolyn and Makenna

Carolyn, Makenna and Katie

Makenna and Carolyn

Joe, Jay, Makenna and Carolyn

Joe, Makenna and Carolyn

Carolyn, Makenna, and Katie

Christa, Carolyn and Lain

Joe and Carolyn

Gracie, Addi, Ayla, Carolyn, Ezra, Joe and Cami

Jay, Lain, Carolyn, Peggy, Ayla and Christa

Carolyn, Lain, and Addi

Carolyn, Makenna and Joe

Makenna, Carolyn and Addi

Joe, Ayla and Carolyn

Joe and Carolyn

Christa and Carolyn

Carolyn and Cami

Carolyn, Makenna and Karen

Carolyn

Sadly we lost Jay's mom to cancer on July 3, 2010. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her. Carolyn was a great lady. She was a fighter and such a strong woman. After watching her fight her battle against melanoma, I learned where Makenna got all of her strength and courage. She was Makenna's champion from the get go. She never let Makenna's medical issues get in the way of her love for her. She visited Makenna so often when she wasn't able to go out. As soon as Makenna was well enough to experience the world, Carolyn kept her over night and for a few weeks in the summers. They had a wonderful bond and enjoyed every minute they spent together. She jumped right in to learn all the needed care Makenna required and she taught herself sign language so that she could communicate with her first born grandchild. Thank you Carolyn for seeing Makenna's inner beauty! We are very sad that Camille will not be able to experience her grandmother first hand. However, she will live in our memories which we will share with Cami as she grows. Carolyn loved her children and grandchildren so much. Her face would just light up every time one of her grand babies was around. Carolyn was a wonderful mother, grandmother and the BEST mother - in - law a girl could hope for. We know you are in Jesus' arms now free from pain and suffering! Loving you Always - Jay, Katie, Makenna and Camille.

Snuggles with Mom!

2010-07-01T06:57:00.003-04:00

Cami all snuggled in next to Makenna

Makenna snuggled in next to mommy

Cute as can be

Mommy and her Girls

In the Susil house you can not snuggle with one person at a time. It is usually a family event. If one little one is getting snuggles the other wants to join right in!

Water Table

2010-07-01T06:41:00.003-04:00

Drinking the water - yuck!

Since Cami had tubes put in her ear this summer I thought a water table would be a better choice than a swimming pool for summer water fun. Little did I know she would just dump water from the table over her head :0) So much for keeping water out of her ears.

Gus Macker!

2010-06-09T19:14:00.003-04:00

The Whole Gang

She puts a shot up!

Makenna's trophy

Going for a shot

Makenna's tall teammates.

Makenna practicing her moves!

Makenna participated in her first Gus Macker on Saturday! She had a great time and even earned a trophy for all of her hard work.

Rain filled Campout

2010-06-09T19:02:00.005-04:00

Exploring

There she goes again.

Fun on the slide!

Rainy look at Cassie's camper and Nana and Baba's camper

Daddy and Cami passing the time during the rain.

Well we tried out our new camper last weekend. Of course, it rained the entire weekend. We did manage to eat outside on Friday night and we had a fire late Saturday. Cami, Jay and I walked to the camp store and had ice cream. Makenna stayed with her Nana and Baba from Wednesday until Sunday. She had quite a few trips to the ice cream store :0) Cami loved the swings on the playground and enjoyed exploring (running away from us any chance she had.) Jay didn't stay Friday night because he had to work early on Saturday morning. After the terrible thunderstorm with lightening striking about 30 feet from my dad's camper, I decided I didn't want to stay with Cami by myself. So we all headed back home for a good nights sleep. We managed to make it through the entire night Saturday - even with tornado warnings! Cami slept pretty good in her pack -n- play.

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Ezra's Birthday

2010-06-01T19:50:00.004-04:00

Birthday Boy!

Ezra with gifts.

Everyone is interested in the gifts.

Fun times.

First haircut

Couldn't get any cuter.

The snake - yuck.

Makenna's new pet? I don't think so!

Sunday we headed to Newcomerstown for Ezra's 2nd birthday party. We had a good day. It was really hot. Since Makenna wasn't feeling well the day before she stayed inside and Cami only lasted outside for a very short time. The kids found a snake in the playhouse. Makenna loved petting it and didn't even hesitate to touch it! Cami got her first hair cut from Aunt Peggy. The rope you see in some of the pictures is not a noose - they hang a swing in the living room during the winter so the kids can have indoor fun :0)

Graduation Party

2010-06-01T19:33:00.003-04:00

Jay, Sarah and Nicholas - opening graduation cards.

Tired after a long day at Aunt Carrie's house.

Hokey Pokey - put your head in!

Do the hokey pokey and turn yourself around!

Dress up!

Love the look!

My nephew, Nicholas, graduated from high school on Saturday. We didn't go to the ceremony because we didn't think Cami and Makenna could sit that long (big graduating class.) Plus it was at 10:00 and he lives 21/2 hours away. We had a great day goofing off at the Waite household though :0) We took a long walk. Cami danced to the Hokey Pokey with Nana. She also played dress up with Sarah's hand me downs. Makenna went on a walk with us and played in Sarah's room for a long time, however, she started feeling ill towards the end of the day and was run down with a fever.

Baby Sitting

2010-06-01T19:26:00.003-04:00

Ezra telling Cami to look at the camera.

Makenna, Ayla, Cami, Ezra

We babysat for Jay's sister a couple of weekends ago. First time we kept all four of the kids at one time. Peggy's kids were great! My kids were wound up and a little jealous. We had a hard time sharing :0)

Dance!

2010-05-16T23:13:00.004-04:00

Dancing :0)

Final pose for their act.

Ready to go!

Opening - In the center 2nd row back!

Ready for the opening.

Well Saturday was the big Dance Recital day. What a long day it was. Makenna had baseball at 10:00 and off to the recital by 12:00. She did a great job and was a trooper through the whole thing. We didn't quite make it to the closing number though because Cami was at her limit. We were so proud of Makenna. Thanks to Nana, Mamaw and Papaw for coming to support Makenna!

Jack's birthday

2010-05-11T07:51:00.003-04:00

Cami and Buttons.

"Kitty Cat"

Petting the cat.

Baba and Cami

Jack and Kenna

Birthday boy - Jack!

We celebrated Jack's birthday last Saturday. We enjoyed our time with the family. Camille really likes their cat.

Swing Batter

2010-05-11T07:28:00.004-04:00

Fun at the playground.

Daddy and Cami enjoying a cold ball game.

Running the bases. (Jack is signing "run".)

Swing Batter!

Makenna #8, we are taking suggestions for a nickname.

Girl with attitude - ready to play!

The second season of Miracle League started last Saturday. Come on out and enjoy a game this season. Games are Saturdays at 10:00 and 11:30 at the Miracle League Field, right behind Starlight. If you have little ones make time to visit Starlight's playground. It is very accessible and great for little children. Makenna is on the Halos team this year. Her Uncle Jimmy is the coach, Matthew her cousin is assistant coach and Jack her other cousin is her helper. Thanks McLendon family for supporting such a great League for children with disabilities. Thank you to the Garber Family who always come out and show their support! Hope to see all of you at the ball park this year :0)

First Holy Communion

2010-05-02T16:41:00.003-04:00

Makenna made her First Communion today along with 30 other second grade students. She did a fantastic job. We were so proud of her. She is growing up fast all of a sudden.

Swimming Lessons!

2010-04-14T21:09:00.006-04:00

Makenna waiting her turn. What a gorgeous girl!!

Walking to the side.

Looks like a grin!

Coming up from being dunked!

Making sure her ears are plugged.

I love this mama!

Splashing is fun!

We started swimming lessons Sunday at the Fieldhouse. Cami is participating in Water Babies with my help :0) and this is Makenna's first group session. Cami's lesson was first. She learned to kick her legs on her belly and her back. She was so funny - she put her fingers in her ears when she was on her back to keep the water out. She also learned to hold her breathe and go under. She was a bit frightened at the beginning of the lesson but adjusted quickly. I think having her friends, Ty and Maddie, join us for lessons helped. Ty taught Cami how to splash the water and she loved that! Makenna was sitting with Jay watching Cami's lesson and she looked over at him and told him, "I am not swimming by myself, I did that when I was eight." I think the dunking of the babies made her a little nervous for her turn! She did great though. She got right in and followed the directions. She worked on floating (Makenna's toughest skill), blowing bubbles, kicking with a kick board, going under and walking around the shallow end. She even jumped off the side only holding one hand! Great job girls - can't wait for next week.

Egg Hunt

2010-04-05T21:01:00.004-04:00

Happy Easter Everyone! Our day started early. We actually made it to church by 7:30 am!!!!! Came home prepared the ham and tidied the house. Our family came over for a fantastic lunch and then it was time for the Easter Egg Hunt. All the cousins participated (age 16 mos. to 18 yrs.) and had a great time. Makenna couldn't wait to get started and found most of her eggs by herself. Cami had a great start, until one of the eggs popped open and she discovered the candy. That was the end of the hunt for her she wanted the candy paper and all! Both my girls love their chocolate (they get that from their dad!) The rest of the kids were busy counting their cash but the two Susil girls were all about eatting as much candy as they could before Mommy called it quits for the day :0)

Little Miss Independent, Finally

2010-04-02T19:59:00.002-04:00

Makenna was losing her patience waiting for me so decided to take matters into her own hands. She wanted to watch a DVD and the player sits really high on a shelf that she can't reach. Since I was taking so long she went to the kitchen and drug a chair through the dining room into her play room, climbed up and started the DVD all by herself. She has also finally accomplished getting her own cup from the cupboard and pouring a glass of water from the pitcher in the fridge and getting into and out of the car and buckling her self into her booster seat. I forget if I mention I am also no longer allowed to put her to bed, she likes to do that by herself too!

OSD here she comes!

2010-04-02T19:50:00.002-04:00

We are so excited about next school year. After a long, difficult decision we decided to send Makenna to the Ohio School for the Deaf in Columbus! We took a tour in February and loved everything we saw. Makenna had a great time signing with all the students and every one of them asked if she would be coming back the next day. It will be a long commute for her but since she is up by four every morning anyway - I think she will handle it just fine. Hopefully, they can help us get her caught up with her reading comprehension skills too. All the staff we met appeared to be very comfortable with all of her needs. My little girl is growing up - sniff, sniff!

Coloring Easter Eggs!

2010-04-02T19:24:00.004-04:00

Makenna and mommy coloring eggs, Cami playng in her smashed egg.

How pretty our first egg! OHHH

Everyone's hands in the dye

What will this egg look like?

Look daddy my first egg!

The finished product :0)

Spilling a little dye.

We had so much fun coloring Easter eggs. Cami managed to color herself before the first egg was complete. Makenna didn't know what to think when Cami took her first colored egg and smashed it in her hand and then into the driveway! Makenna did a great job with eggs, but insisted on eatting one right away.

Bathing Suit and Mama's clothes

2010-04-02T19:17:00.001-04:00

Cami was sporting her new bathing suit just to check fit before her swimming lessons start next week. She looks so cute in her little flowered suit. This morning she found my stash of summer shirts, yet to be unpacked and decided to take them all out and try a few on for size. She thought it was so much fun to walk around with them covering her head until she walked into a door (at least it wasn't down the steps.) This one keeps me hopping :0) I wouldn't have it any other way.

Little Explorer!

2010-03-22T20:47:00.004-04:00

signing "more"

Whee!

1st trip down the slide!

Swinging is fun!

Cami loves to be outdoors. It took her about 2 minutes to get used to the grass and venture off on her own. She loves to take off walking by herself. Every time one of us gets close to her she giggles and takes off "running." She is so funny. She is enjoying her swing and couldn't get enough of the slide. We are going to have some good times this summer. One night last week she walked all the way up our drive and to the end of Jonathon Lane! That is a long hike for such a little girl. I have two girls that enjoy walking :0) Hopefully, they will want to go in the same direction at some point.

Camper!

2010-03-22T20:38:00.002-04:00

5th wheel

Kitchen and Makenna's "bed"

We bought a "new- to- us" camper. We are really excited to take the girls camping this summer. Some of my fondest childhood memories are camping vacations with my family and grandparents. I can't wait to start making memories with Makenna and Camille. I absolutely love to sit by a campfire and enjoy the evening.

Following Directions

2010-03-01T08:55:00.002-05:00

All the drawers are empty mom!

Did I miss anything?

Trying to climb up the drawers.

Helping mommy!

It was time for Cami's second bath of the day. She decided to put applesauce in her hair at dinner. She was having a bit of a rough weekend. Just not feeling well- so bath time always gets her in a good mood. She loves the water. Anyway, while I get all the supplies for the bath I usually give Cami a task so she can help out and not climb into the tub before it is time. Tonight I asked her to go take her clothes off, well as you can see from the pictures she got part of the direction. She got her clothes OUT not off! Good time to clean out drawers I guess :0)

Hockey

2010-02-28T15:49:00.002-05:00

Kenna watching the action.

Sarah's turn with the binoculars.

Waite 21

Hustle Carson!

Speedy!!!!

Matthew, Makenna and I jumped in the car and headed to Newark to watch my nephew play hockey on Saturday evening. Carson did a great job! He really hustled out there. That boy can skate. Even though the Mite Troy Bruins gave it their all, they came up with a loss. It didn't seem to dampen the teams spirits too much -all the boys were excited to get to the hotel and swim! What do you expect with 7 & 8 year olds? Makenna was excited to see Sarah and she watch a little of the game through her binoculars. Sarah was excited to try the binoculars out too!

Snowman

2010-02-28T15:44:00.001-05:00

Jay decided it was finally time to build a snowman. We all bundled up and headed outside. Makenna refused to help us! We had fun anyway, between picking up kids that were falling everywhere and trying to help lift snowman bodies - it was great. We also took Cami sledding again. Makenna again refused - must have been a bad day for her.

Happy Birthday Makenna!

2010-02-13T21:14:00.008-05:00

Birthday girls with their cakes!

Opening presents with Ayla.

Two beautiful birthday girls- Makenna 9 and Addison 2.

Minnie and Mickey Mouse cakes.

Looks like a strike.

Makenna throwing the bowling ball.

Everyone is excited about the Wii!

Madame Alexander doll!

Look at all those presents!

It is official! Makenna turned 9 years old today. Unbelievable! It is amazing how fast time goes by when you have children. She is an amazing, spunky, spirited, gorgeous young lady who inspires us each and everyday! We have had a wonderful year. Makenna had a delightful birthday with 2 great parties. The first party was with the Miller side of the family. She received so many thoughtful gifts. She loved her Wii and even turned down cake to play the Wii! She flabbergasted Jay and I with that one. In fact, Jay asked her twice because he couldn't believe she wasn't ready for her cake. That girl LOVES her cake. After the Miller party we went to Aunt Lain's for the combo party with Addison. Addison and Makenna share a birthday. Addi turned 2 today. Happy Birthday Addison. Aunt Lain had some connections and was able to get us a Minnie Mouse cake for Makenna and a Mickey Mouse cake for Addison. We had a great time at the Susil party too. It is always fun to have so many little ones together.

The BIG Snow!

2010-02-07T10:12:00.006-05:00

Our home.

Daddy and the girls standing in the snow. Cami is really excited!

Sitting on a mountain of snow daddy plowed.

Our backyard - it is gorgeous!

One of the trees out back.

Makenna making a snow angel.

Cami is getting the walking down.

Wait! I need to catch my balance.

And she is off again!

Our power went out around midnight Friday night/Saturday morning. We woke up to a pretty chilly house. Daddy got up before the girls and got the generator running. He bought a big generator last year after we were without power for a few days (Cami was a newborn.) That thing can run the whole house. So once he got the tractor out and the generator going - the house warmed up and I was able to serve a hot breakfast. We ran the furnace for a few hours then Jay went out and shut it down so he could plow us and the rest of the neighborhood out. Our power came on just after he went outside so we didn't get too cold. Later in the afternoon we bundled up and went out to play. The snow was so high on Cami - up to her rear end. I think we got around 12 inches. Makenna wanted to take a winter walk so we headed up the drive way and enjoyed the beautiful snow. Makenna made a snow angel and loved throwing snow balls. Cami learned how to walk in all those clothes and liked sitting in the snow. We had a fun day. We are thankful the snow came the weekend before Makenna's birthday party - it usually hits the weekend of her party!

So Big - 14 months!

2010-01-28T08:06:00.003-05:00

I want to play in the snow again- if only I could figure out this snow suit!

Daddy and Cami- Go Bucks

Taking herself upstairs for a nap!

Cracking up with daddy- he is so funny!

Sisterly love or maybe that is a push.

Cami is 14 months old! Where does the time go? She is on the move. She has mastered the steps - up and down. She gets into all cupboards and drawers. She can follow directions amazingly! I can't get over everything she understands already. She knows her body parts such as: eyes, ears, mouth, nose, toes, feet, belly and hair. She says new words everyday. She says "no" to everything, I think we need to work on "yes" next! What a beautiful, smart girl we have.

What a Reader!

2010-01-28T08:03:00.001-05:00

Cami loves books! I am so excited about this as I have always been an avid reader. Everyday she asked to have books read to her and she loves to climb up in her rocker and look through books by herself.

Play date!

2010-01-28T07:57:00.001-05:00

A few weeks ago we had a play date with the Garbers. Cami and Makenna love to go see Ty and Maddie. There was a special surprise on this particular day, Cami's friends Ella and Gray came too. Cami knows them from the sitter's house. Everyone had a great time. They played pass the cup and drank from everyone's cups but their own. All of the moms loved that game. The kitchen and playdoh were also lots of fun. Throw in a snack and the kids were all set! Thanks for a great evening Ty, Maddie and Juna!

"Snow" Much Fun!

2009-12-28T13:14:00.003-05:00

Mommy pulling Makenna and Cami through the yard. Cami loved it!

Kenna going down hill by herself! WHEEE

Daddy and Cami on her first trip down hill sledding! Woweeeee!

The girls all bundled up for the snow!

A little snow fell last night so we bundled up and took the girls out this morning in the COLD wind! It was Camille's first snow experience. She had a lot of fun sledding and laughed when she went down the hill with daddy. Makenna went down the hill by herself today. She was a little nervous on the way down but decided it was fun when she was all done.

Susil Family Christmas

2009-12-26T20:56:00.006-05:00

Cami(13mos), Kenna(8), Ezra (19 mos), Gracie (2), Ayla(3), Addison(22mos)

Everybody wants a kiss!

Cami had a meltdown and Ezra escaped!

Grandma and Grandpa Susil

Beautiful Camille

Makenna, Addison and Ayla opening presents.

Christmas afternoon we enjoyed a nice lunch with the Susil clan! After lunch it was on to more presents. Of course it was so much fun - with six kids, five of which are 3 years old and under. As you can see from the group shots we all had a lot of excitement!

Christmas Morning!

2009-12-26T13:34:00.006-05:00

The favorite present- a telescope!

Nana and Cami - ready for her morning nap.

So excited about the stroller!

Great Grandpa Miller with Cami and Kenna.

Makenna is deciding which present is her favorite.

Cami taking a break to eat some cereal before opening more presents.

A globe - we live in O-H-I-O (insert fingerspelling)

Daddy and Cami opening presents.

Kenna signing telescope after opening her present!

Makenna and Camille going after the presents.

We had a lot of fun Christmas morning. Santa left Makenna a note thanking her for the cookies and milk and reminding her to be a good girl for the next year! She thought that was special- she read the note to everyone who visited. She also got a telescope which she loved. Boy that Santa knew all the right things to get this year. Makenna has also been enjoying her globe. Camille was more interested in breakfast than the presents but eventually got them all open :0) She loves her stroller, balls and all of sissy's presents. Nana and Baba came over for the mayhem and brought great Grandpa Howard too! We enjoyed yummy french toast casserole, breakfast sausage and a chocolate, caramel apple (thanks Rhonda) compliments of Mommy.

Miller Family Christmas

2009-12-26T13:27:00.003-05:00

The Saturday before Christmas we went to my mom's house (Nana and Baba.) After dinner was finished we had a very special visitor! Santa came to Nana's house. Makenna was very excited, Cami not so much. We had fun visiting with all the cousins and aunts and uncles though!

Christmas Picture Fun

2009-12-13T16:54:00.004-05:00

Today we attempted a picture of the girls for our Christmas cards! What fun!!!!! They both did a good job, especially since Makenna isn't back to her old self yet. You can see her kind of wilting in the photos as her energy level drops quickly. Cami was eatting and many of the good shots show her snacks - ick. We found a few good ones. Here is sneak peek - you will have to wait for your Christmas cards to see the best one though!

Sick Girl

2009-12-13T16:49:00.001-05:00

Makenna spent five days last week in the hospital. She had a very bad UTI that made her vomit and become dehydrated. It really took it out of her. She was on IV fluids and IV antibiotic for five days. She didn't talk to us or get out of bed for 31/2 days and if you know Makenna you know that is not like her. It was pretty quiet around here (her hospital room!) She made it home Friday and is still recooperating. She doesn't have much of her appetite back and is still VERY weak. She has been camped out on the couch for most of the weekend. Cami was very excited to see her sister. She wasn't allowed to visit while Makenna was in the hospital. She welcomed Makenna home with a great big smile and a sloppy, juicy kiss on the cheek. Thanks to everyone for your prayers and good thoughts. We are a very blessed family and Makenna is loved and cared for by so many people - it means the world to us!

Cami turns ONE!

2009-11-22T19:48:00.006-05:00

Ezra wanted to share!

Yummy

Two hands full of cake!

I'm just going to pick up the whole thing.

First bite- not sure how to eat it.

How cute is Cami?

Shapes

Ezzy and Cami playing together!

Happy Birthday Camille Rose! Yes, little Cami turns one on November 24th! We had her party today. It was a great day. All of Cami's 10 cousins were able to attend. It was sure a house full with 5 kids under 3. Cami received many wonderful toys and lots of cute clothes. She enjoyed her cake and shared with Ezra.

Miller's Thanksgiving

2009-11-22T19:38:00.003-05:00

Cami and Great Baba Buck (my grandpa) and great grandpa Miller in the back groud!

Makenna and her big cousin Lauren

Cami and Uncle Tim having some fun.

All the cousins: Lauren (20), Makenna (8), Sarah (6), Nick (17), Cami (1), Matthew (13), Carson (8) and Jack (11)

We celebrated Thanksgiving this weekend with my family. Everyone was able to attend this year from Carrie's family. We had a nice time- it was actually pretty quiet which is a feat in my family. Only one incident - Jack got himself stuck in a trash can and it took Cassie, Carrie and me to get him out!

Dressing Up for Grandma!

2009-11-04T15:05:00.006-05:00

Cami and Ezra sharing a kiss!

Wait just one more.

Ayla (3) ballerina, Makenna (8) clown, Ezra (1) Ninja,
Cami (11 mos) pumpkin,
Addison (1) duck, Gracie (2) Little Red Riding Hood.

Jay and all of his sisters brought the kids to their mom's house to let the kids and grandma and grandpa see them all dressed up for Halloween. It was chaos but a lot of fun. Cami and Ezra decided to get close and personal by the back door.

UH OH

2009-10-26T06:48:00.004-04:00

Cami escaped from Jay's few and in just a few short minutes made a mess with the toilet paper. She looks like she had a lot of fun!

Trick or Treating

2009-10-25T21:33:00.003-04:00

My mom made GREAT costumes for the girls. Makenna was a clown and Cami was a Jack- O - Lantern. They were so cute. We had a perfect night for trick or treating! Thank you Nana we loved our costumes and they kept us warm.

Beautiful Fall Day

2009-10-25T21:01:00.004-04:00

We spent some time outside today. Just enjoying the sunshine and introducing Cami to the leaves. Finally a sunny day and no rain in sight! Perfect evening for trick or treating too! What a great day.

Carving Pumpkins

2009-10-25T20:50:00.004-04:00

Before

Just a little taste of pumpkin pulp!

Digging right in

another taste...

Kenna's turn

Finished product- Good Job Daddy!

Makenna is proud of her Jack O Lantern!

Makenna has been excited about carving pumpkins since the first day of October. The day finally arrived! We carved pumpkins on Saturday. Makenna was very excited about her Jack O Lantern. Cami enjoyed tasting the pulp and skin of the pumpkin!

Cami and her "dog"

2009-10-18T18:10:00.001-04:00

Jay brought home a deer the other night. Cami didn't know what to think of one of her "dogs" in daddy's truck.

Sick Day

2009-10-18T17:56:00.003-04:00

Not a picture while I'm sick mom!

Still with the camera!

Makenna is having a second staight Sunday being sick. Her fever returned with a sore throat and headache. I guess we better call the doctor tomorrow. Of course we spent all day with five of her cousins yesterday.

Lazy Weekends

2009-10-18T15:55:00.004-04:00

Say cheese

I want the camera

So many toys so little time

Aren't I cute

Kenna being silly for the camera!

After church on Sundays we come home and enjoy the day playing together. Cami is a lot of fun right now and loves to have her picture taken. She is dancing to her music and can really get her hips going - it is so cute. Makenna loves to ham it up for the camera and you can't take enough pictures of her.

Friday Fun with Nana

2009-10-18T15:45:00.004-04:00

Yeah it is Nana Day!

So much fun with Nana!

Nana's girl!

Cami loves spending Fridays with Nana! Mommy loves it too! Cami gets caught up on all the sleep she needs and Nana does Mommy's laundry. Thank you Nana - We love you!

2nd Annual Charge it for CHARGE

2009-10-04T13:32:00.004-04:00

Makenna (3) with Clyde

Makenna (2) with Mommy on Christmas

Makenna (4) with Santa

Makenna (6) at CHARGE conference

Makenna (7) Christmas morning

Makenna (8) Easter Sunday with Camille

Makenna (8) at Aunt Lain's house

Makenna (8) at Special Riders in September!

It is time for the second annual Charge It For CHARGE Campaign. This is a fundraiser for the CHARGE Syndrome Foundation. It is a wonderful organization that has helped us tremendously over the years. We found this organization after our daughter, Makenna, was diagnosed with CHARGE syndrome. Makenna was born with many life threatening conditions. We were originally told IF she lived she would be deaf, blind, severely mentally retarded and lay in a bed the rest of her life. Makenna has fought a tough battle since the second she was born. She has undergone 20 surgeries in her eight years of life. She has spent an unbelievable amount of time in the hospital and has endured countless painful procedures. However, to meet Makenna today you would never guess the things she has overcome. She is a spirited, funny, sweet, smart eight year old that participates in horseback riding, baseball, dance, Sunday school, and everything that goes along with being in second grade. Please visit our personal webpage-The Second Annual Charge It for CHARGE - General Donation- to donate and or visit the CHARGE Syndrome Foundation. The foundation has given us so much information regarding CHARGE syndrome. It has enables us to meet other families living with CHARGE syndrome. It has given us information for Makenna's teachers, doctors and therapists. The foundation has assisted us in providing Makenna with all the resources she needs to be a successful individual now and in the future!

Camille Rose is 10 months old!

2009-09-26T18:13:00.002-04:00

I can't believe my beautiful baby is already 10 months. She is really on the move now. We can't keep her anywhere. She has discovered the stairs and loves them of course. If you forget the gate and Cami is really quiet - we know she has escaped to the stairs. Her favorite word is "dog" - everything is a "dog" right now- groundhogs, dogs, deer, cats- you name it she says dog. When she says dog she puts her hands up like she is asking where they are - it is the cutest thing! She blows kisses and gives real kisses. She loves every food we give her. The Itsy Bitsy Spider makes her laugh everytime - even if she has been crying. She adores getting a bath and doesn't like it when it is Makenna's turn. It will be a miracle if she doesn't end up in the tub with Makenna head first. I can't keep her away from the side and she leans over to try to splash the water. I love this stage - every thing is new and so amazing!!!!

Fall Ball with the Miracle League

2009-09-26T18:08:00.002-04:00

Makenna started Fall Ball last weekend. We were rained out today. The Miracle League offered another session of baseball so that the kids would have the opportunity to play under the lights. The game started at seven and didn't wrap up until 9:00! A late night for Makenna but she had fun as usual. She loves having her cousin Jack as her buddy on the team. She was working so hard at running this time her arms were going faster than her legs. She is really cute to watch. Come out and enjoy a game next weekend!

Homegrown Pumpkins!

2009-09-26T13:42:00.003-04:00

Makenna has been excited about Halloween since the first day of September. She has been asking about the pumpkin patch and getting pumpkins, carving Jack-o-lanterns and going trick or treating. Jay planted a few pumpkin seeds at our property in Frazeysburg last year so we took the girls out early to get pumpkins this year. We only picked two, but we will get more closer to Halloween.

Makenna and Mini Me.

2009-09-13T16:27:00.002-04:00

I love my big sister!

Hey pay attention to me!

What is going on up here?

Much to my chagrin it looks like Cami is taking up one of Makenna's favorite past times. Actually she just likes to be just like her big sister- she wasn't too interested in the program.

Labor Day Fun

2009-09-13T15:54:00.006-04:00

My cute girl

Ayla

Ezra back at the fountain - you would think he would learn after having to wear girl clothes when his got all wet :0)

Cami liked Dixie

Addi and Cami sharing a kiss and the seesaw.

Makenna getting a little corn hole in.

Addi hamming it up.

Lain and Peggy tried to play corn hole but the little ones took over.

We went to Aunt Lain, Uncle Richard and Addi's house for Labor Day. All the kids had fun. There are many cousins to play with when we are all together, Makenna (8), Ayla (3), Gracie (23 months), Addison (19 mos), Ezra (16mos) and Cami (9mos). The kids loved Lain's new water feature and the bird bath. All the kids but my 2 were drenched. Cami is too little to get to the water and Makenna didn't want to be wet so she played conservatively. Poor Ezra had to wear a shirt of Addison's when his got wet since he is the only boy around he didn't have many options.

Nine months and growing....

2009-09-05T16:01:00.004-04:00

Thanks Makenna!

Hanging out with Daddy!

Attacking my sister.

I am innocent of all things!

Cami was nine months on August 24th! She is doing new things everyday. She is able to pull her self up to stand, she dances, she blows kisses, plays pat-a-cake, and jabbers all the time. She continues to say daddy and mum on occasion, she tries to say sissy and has her own word for butterfly. Her new word is dog - we think for the overly friendly, huge groundhog that visits the kids at the babysitter's house. She signs milk, all done and bye bye. She still loves to take Makenna's glasses and pull her hair. Camille has her two top and bottom front teeth and is trying to get in the next two on top. She loves to eat anything she finds including dirt, bugs, leaves and rubber pieces of Makenna's ball.

Our Special Rider

2009-09-01T16:03:00.003-04:00

Special Riders started on Monday. It is a therapeutic horseback riding program designed for children with special needs. It is one of Makenna's favorite activities. She couldn't wait to get on her horse. She asked Ms. Connie if she could ride a black one so of course Connie went on the hunt for a black horse with a small saddle for Makenna. Makenna is riding Chief this year. This is her third year participating in the program.

2009-08-30T19:13:00.001-04:00

First Day of Second Grade!!!

2009-08-30T18:59:00.002-04:00

Makenna started second grade in Ms. Rooney's class at Falls Elementary on Tuesday, August 24, 2009. She had a great first week and enjoyed school as much as always. She was happy to meet up with her "old" friends and was busy making many "new" friends.

Nashville, Tennessee

2009-08-22T16:24:00.005-04:00

Where is my sundae?

Make your own sundae at the resort. YUMMY!

Crazy hair - oh what a little sun screen and pool water will do!

Watching the fish at the Aquariam Restuarant

Swinging on the play ground at the resort.

Riding the Merry Go Round at the mall.

Daddy and Makenna swimming.

Mommy and her girls. Cami is eatting her sunglasses instead of wearing them and the hat ended up in the pool after a second.

Where is the ball?

Posing for a picture.

Getting Daddy!

All decked out for the Grand Ole Opry!

Off to the Opry.

Family picture by the BEAR - Cami is sleeping.

We are back from our trip to Nashville. We had a fun filled relaxing vacation with my mom and the girls. Makenna was happy to have Nana along - and so were Jay and I. We went to the outlet mall and stocked up on the kids wardrobes for the fall and winter. Jay, Makenna and I went to the Grand Ole Opry! Not at all what I expected but it was fun none the less. We heard some good music and jokes. Makenna was so excited when the one and only female performer took the stage. She jumped out of her seat and said, "She is a girl like me." She then danced during the entire first song. During the second song Makenna decided to interpret what she heard from the music. It was a song about alchoholism (remember it was country) but Makenna's take on it must have been a christian version. There were a lot of signs about God and Jesus during the interpretation. We spent a lot of the time in the pool. Both girls loved swimming. Cami is keeping up the skills she learned in her water babies class. While Makenna didn't want to go under she mastered floating and jumped from the side while holding on to my hands. We went to dinner at the Aquarium - both girls were entranced by the fish swimming around as we ate. We also went to the Caney Forks Fish Farm that had a catfish pond inside. While we were eatting there Makenna looked over and saw a stuffed bear and yelled out "A BEAR" I think she thought it was real.

A Mother's Thoughts

2009-08-14T20:13:00.002-04:00

Raising a child with special needs brings on a firestorm of emotions. You experience resentment, fear, rage, happiness, joy, etc. You also learn to become extremely patient and to celebrate every tiny achievement. You learn to not try to keep up with the Jones's because it will never happen. You learn to take no milestone for granted. You find pure joy in a smile, a word, a step, a bite, a hug or kiss. I have been living this for eight years. Now I am finding myself in yet another new and unexpected world of supersonic development. My tiny baby went from newborn to baby in a short eight months. I want to experience everything again with her. To celebrate the milestones to not take it for granted. She just meets and exceeds these things so much faster than her big sister did. I am in awe and yet I know this is what most parents experience. I wish I could slow her down a bit. Today she pulled herself up to standing a number of times. Before I know it she will be walking! This family has been in slow motion for so long - how are we ever going to keep up. Babies are amazing little creatures - we love to watch Cami do all these things on the "typical" timeline. I am a little sad for all those people who haven't had to slow down and be happy for those little things and find out that each and every stage is a true miracle. I am so thankful for my children and wouldn't change a thing about my experience as a parent. Love you girls!

Sunday Best

2009-08-02T10:59:00.002-04:00

"I don't want to look at the camera - Makenna is more interesting!"

Daddy got my attention with a toy!

"If I could just get my hand back far enough I think I can reach Kenna's hair."

"What I'm not pulling Makenna's hair!"

Makenna and Cami all dressed up and ready for church. They are so pretty, aren't they? It was just me and the girls this morning. Jay decided to go to a bow shoot instead. Let me tell you it is rough with only one adult at church. Camille gave me a workout - I think I did my arm work - no need for weights today. She was getting tired and was moving all over me - plus it was really hot, I don't think they had the air on - I was trying to fan myself with the bulletin but paper being Cami's favorite toy right now she wrestled me for it so she could have a little snack of paper. - YUCK!

Silly Monkey!

2009-07-29T14:16:00.001-04:00

Makenna the monkey.

Makenna put Cami's chair on her head and was dancing around the house last night. Jay asked her what she was and she told him she was a monkey. Here is Makenna dressing up like a monkey and signing it.

Camille is 8 months!

2009-07-29T13:58:00.003-04:00

Cami making her way to Makenna.

Just being cute.

Always on the move now.

Cami had her eight month birthday while on her first vacation. She did so well on the plane, sleeping in a strange bed, being off of her schedule and meeting new people at every turn. We are so blessed with this child. Cami is able to say "dada", "mum" (only when she is mad), "hi" and she signs "milk". She is officially crawling. She crawls all over everything and likes to use mommy and daddy as a jungle gym. Her favorite toys are paper, my curtains and Makenna's hair and glasses. She hates to be left in a room by herself and makes it known! She has yet to meet a stranger and will smile and laugh with everyone she meets. One of her top teeth broke through her gums yesterday and the other one is soon to follow. What a perfect addition Cami has been to our family.

CHARGE and all that Jazz!!

2009-07-27T10:13:00.004-04:00

Cami and Makenna enjoying social time.

Andrea and Makenna dancing.

Katie, Makenna and Camille in front to the CHARGE sign and waterfall.

Everyone enjoying the dance.

Makenna and Rachel Coleman from Signing Time!

Rachel signing and singing!

Makenna and friends at the dance.

Another spectacular conference! It was wonderful to see old friends and meet new ones. The information and networking were stellar as usual. I think this was a very important conference for Makenna. All year she has been asking who is like her - who has a g-tube, who has hearing aids, who has had a trach, who takes medicine everyday, etc. She was so excited to meet kids that were like her! She would get a huge smile when someone showed her their g-tube, trach, hearing aids or even if we saw someone getting a tube feeding. Makenna loved it! It is also great for her to see so many people signing and for people to sign to her instead of having to have mom there all the time. She found her indepence and worked the entire room during the Conference Idol performances. She went from family to family talking and dancing.

Makenna met a lady (Andrea) from Chile. She told us Makenna reminded her so much of her daughter. There was a big communication barrier but that didn't stop the bonding. Andrea didn't speak Engish or know any sign at all. It was really sweet though. Makenna must have understood some of what she was saying because she asked me if she was in her belly when she was a baby or my belly!

Rachel Coleman from Signing Time! performed at the carnivel. It was wonderful to see her in person after watching hours and hours and hours of her videos on TV. Makenna and Cami both got their picture taken with her after the performance.

New Ear Molds

2009-07-27T10:05:00.004-04:00

Look at my new blue ear molds!

We went to the audiologist a few weeks ago and Makenna was so excited to get new ear molds. They are blue and she couldn't wait for them to come in the mail. Well we got them a week ago and she insisted I take some pictures.

What a big sister!

2009-07-18T18:15:00.002-04:00

Cami was cracking up she could barely eat.

Makenna loves to watch Cami have her dinner. Today she decided to feed her.

Adamsville Homecoming Entertainment

2009-07-18T18:04:00.003-04:00

Makenna is second from the left.

Getting into the swing of things.

We were a little rusty we hadn't performed our routine since May.

Having a ball!

Makenna's dance studio performed at the Adamsville Homecoming on Thursday. Her dance group was one of the selected ones to participate. I snapped a few pictures - sorry the fence was in the way.

Lake Isabella

2009-07-13T09:11:00.002-04:00

We had an enjoyable day at the lake with the McLendon's yesterday. We started with a picnic lunch - even Makenna joined in for the yummy food. As soon as lunch was over - Makenna was ready to head for the sand and sun. We settled in at the VERY crowded beach and Makenna was having a great time digging in the sand and pouring it on Cassie's blanket! It didn't take long for Cami to venture to the edge of the blanket and find the sand too. She loved eatting it by the handfuls! We couldn't keep it out of her mouth. Soon Makenna was ready to swim. She and Daddy hit the water - it took Cami (and Mommy) a little longer to get used to the chilly temperature. Makenna wanted to know if there were big fish swimming in that water with her. I don't think she liked that idea too well, but had fun anyway. She thought Matthew and Jack wrestling around in the water were pretty funny. Cami didn't last too long in the water - she was ready for her lunch. The day ended too soon - but we had a great time while it lasted. Cami's first experience with sand went well for the most part. Makenna wants to know when we can head to the ocean for a vacation!

Sorry no pictures of this trip to the lake. Cassie and I both forgot our cameras!

Morning TV

2009-07-09T21:31:00.002-04:00

Makenna loves to climb into our bed in the morning and grab her Daddy's binoculars to watch a little morning TV. This is her everyday routine. She just cracks us up - reading the guide through the binoculars and settling back to watch her favorite cartoons.

A Night at the Susil's

2009-07-09T21:06:00.006-04:00

Yummy Popsicle!

Makenna is not too sure about feeding this donkey.

Jack either.

Matthew got the hang of it.

Makenna is not going to take her eyes off that donkey!

Playing some b-ball.

Catch Jack!

Cami's first guitar lesson from Matt.

He promises to have her playing by age 3!

Matt and Jack came over this evening. We had lots of fun. We played in the stream, played b-ball, ate Popsicles, had a music lesson and evening fed the donkeys! Matt and Jack are great with both of the girls! Makenna just loves to have her big cousins over. Earlier today - Cassie watched the girls while I worked and she took them all swimming at a friends house. Makenna and Cami had a BIG day!