Strahan Stories

Rangers, baby!!!

2012-02-04T18:42:00.001-06:00

This Strahan household are HUGE Ranger fans! We always get so excited when April comes...it's America's past time! I was lucky enough to attend a luncheon at the Texas Sports of Hall of Fame for the Rangers. Ron Washington, Manager, Eric Nadel, Announcer, Dave Anderson, Third Base Coach, and Mark Hamburger, Pitcher were all in attendance. They basically spoke about how they came to be in baseball and what there thoughts were on last season and the up coming season. There was Q&A from the audience the food was amazing and I am so happy I got to be apart of it all!

Ron and Eric

Me and Ron Washington

The baseball I asked Ron to sign. Matt was very happy to receive this little gift. He has a very nice baseball memorabilia collection and it always happy to add stuff to it!

Me with the 2010 and 2011 ALCS Trophies. It was pretty amazing to touch something I knew Michael, Ian and Josh have all held!

It was a great experience and I am proud to be a Ranger fan. Even with all the media surrounding Josh's alcohol relapse I know God will lead him where he needs to be and get him to enjoy life again.

LET'S GO RANGERS!!! THIS IS OUR YEAR!

Karate Kid

2012-02-04T18:24:00.003-06:00

Hayden told us he wanted to take Karate. So of course we signed him right up. So far he is really enjoying himself. Much more then he did soccer! All of the pictures are low quality. It's hard to good action shots from a cell phone! He will have a graduation ceremony every time he reaches a new belt color. At each of those ceremony's he is supposed to be able to break a board....WHAT?!?! My baby? Can you imagine? I will believe it when I see it!

Dr. Pepper Museum

2012-02-04T18:00:00.001-06:00

Recently we took Hayden to the Dr. Pepper Museum. He LOVES Dr. Pepper (who doesn't?!?!) he doesn't get to have it that often...(ugh-hem, unless he visits a certain grandparent) I myself have never been to the Dr. Pepper Museum and I have lived here my whole life!!! It was really neat, but of course the treats where the best part! Hayden is enjoying his first Dr. Pepper float. I didn't care for it too much, I like my Dr. Pepper on the rocks, no ice cream for me please!

Volcano Fun

2012-02-04T17:24:00.001-06:00

A couple of weeks ago Hayden and I made a volcano together. He had a lot of fun and was a very good helper. I figured I would be stuck making the whole thing and he would come around what it was time to make it erupt, but I was wrong. He had a blast and it was pretty neat. It was a fun project that he and I could do together! I hope to find many more in the future!

Christmas 2011

2012-02-04T17:10:00.000-06:00

Christmas morning Hayden ran into our room like the house was on fire to tell us that Santa had came! He was so excited it was so sweet! Once he looked at everything Santa had left him I started on our traditional breakfast pizza. We have it every Christmas since I was a little girl and we aren't going to stop now! After we ate we opened stocking and then let Hayden loose on the gifts under the tree! We spoiled Hayden rotten and Matt and I spoiled each other a little bit which is rare for us to do, but it was nice for a change!

Christmas Eve 2011

2012-02-04T17:01:00.000-06:00

We had a fabulous Christmas Eve this year. During the day we watched all the classic Christmas movies. That night we went took a drive and looked at Christmas lights, fed the reindeer (note to self: reindeer don't like marshmallows because they were still all over my front yard the Christmas morning, oops!!) We made cookies and Daddy insisted that Santa would enjoy strawberry milk this year, and he did! We read our favorite books 'Twas the Night Before Christmas' and 'The Manger Story' and then it was off to bed to dream of sugar plums dancing in our head!

My Christmas Tree

2012-02-04T16:05:00.000-06:00

For forever I have had a red and silver glass ornament tree. With the puppy I didn't know if I would come home to a tree on the ground (which never happened, he didn't even bother it) So i decided it was time to revamp the look. I have always enjoyed having a somewhat of the formal tree. The ornaments that Hayden makes and other sentimental ornaments have a special place in our house at Christmas Time.

So this year I went with gold and red. Since I couldn't have glass because of Ranger I bought poinsettia flowers and gold acorns, leaves, and berries. I had a red and gold bow made and I have to say that my opinion my tree was beautiful this year! I was very happy that it all came together!

Oh Christmas Tree!

2012-02-04T15:51:00.000-06:00

Hayden decorating his tree this past Christmas. He pretty much clumped all the ornaments in one place all the way down the tree.

Ranger Strahan

2012-02-04T15:33:00.001-06:00

A couple of days before Thanksgiving we decided add to our family. We are so happy with our puppy, Ranger (as in baseball, not law enforcement :) ) he is just the sweetest lap dog and such a happy pup!! He and Hayden just play and play and play! I was happy to see that they got along so well because one of the reasons we decided to get a dog is to help fill the void of Hayden not having a live in playmate yet!

Yes, two of the pictures were apart of our Christmas Cards...too cute!

Trick or Treat!

2011-11-05T21:51:00.000-05:00

This year we of course had to make our round to every family member in Central Texas and then Hayden actually did some door to door trick or treating! This is the first year I have let Hayden go door to door and he loved it! He was a total ham and asking people if he could come in...totally embarrassing but hysterical at the same time!

Hayden and his cousins.

Dad and I took turns taking him up to the doors. There is something that I love about a Daddy and Son trick or treating together!

Hayden taking us to the next house...(the road was completely empty, I swear!)

Preschool Halloween Party

2011-11-05T21:29:00.000-05:00

I attended Hayden's Halloween party at school. It was really fun this year because the kids seemed so much more animated then the past years. Here are some pic I wanted to share with you!

Hayden as the Transformer Optimus Prime! He was so excited to wear his costume at school!

I think this picture is hysterical! I don't know who he was talking to but he is obviously channeling the Fonz!

Hayden's Class!

Two Optimus' just doin what they do...

And to finish the party with an exciting game of duck, duck, goose!

Hayden turns 4!

2011-10-31T22:30:00.006-05:00

Recently my sweet baby boy turned 4!! This year we partied it up with our close friends, Hulk, IronMan, Batman...etc. We had his party at Pinwheel Kids with Sandra Simply Events running the show. Let me tell you, it was the perfect party! The girls at Simply Events kept these kids entertained and I was able to do what i do best...chit chat with my friends and snap pictures!

The setup was way too cute! Superhero's everywhere! They got to decorated and take home their own mask and utility belts! Sandra also made super cute capes for the kids to take home as well!

The table set up...

Hayden looking too cute putting his mask on...

decorating...

This was the BIGGEST hit of the night! The kids got to build their own brick wall and knock 'em down using their super powers!

Is this not the best picture?!!? I love him!

Taking a little time to catch up on his reading....

This is what Hayden has been waiting all month for....a big hulk. He has been begging and pleading, making deals and promises for this ultimate prize! Let me tell you a "big" hulk is not easy to find in this town...he is not a hot ticket item at the moment. I was a little worried until I found Bankston's! This place is awesome and the perfect place for a superhero fan!

This Happy Hayden is why everything is worth while! I love him so much and can't believe he is so big! Every year I ask for him not to get any bigger but he does it anyway!

Sunday Funday...Halloween Style

2011-10-31T11:51:00.009-05:00

Yesterday we had a lot of Halloween fun. We carved a pumpkin, made caramel apples and cupcakes! Hayden had a blast and it was fun to something creative with him.

These are our finished caramel apples! I think they turned out too cute!

Our cupcakes...they are supposed to be skeletons. They were a lot prettier in the magazine, but I think they turned out pretty good!

Me and my sweet baby boy!

Hayden LOVES the inside. He likes that it is slimy!

Hayden's CUTE face when I told him it was pretty clean and time for a bath...we wanted to clean it out a little longer

Our finished product...i like that we went to the old school triangle face style!

Pumpkin Patch Kid

2011-10-22T19:53:00.004-05:00

I just realized I didn't get any pictures of him with the actual pumpkins...oops. Please note: Hayden has mastered the art of the "fake smile" :)

YMCA Soccer 2011

2011-10-22T19:15:00.002-05:00

This year we decided to play soccer. We found that the Y has teams for 3 year olds. I knew going in it would be craziness and it is so fun to watch! I could tell you that Hayden is an aggressive player. I could tell you that he gives nothing less then 110% and that he scores every games...but those would all be lies. :) He started off with a good attitude in the beginning of the season but about mid season he decided he could honestly care less about the sport. He is on one end of the field and his team mates are on the other end. He is move interested in playing in the dirt and putting on the show for the extended family that came to watch him!

My soccer star!

Opening Prayer

This is the most aggressive he has been all season.

Throwing in the ball.

This is his favorite part of the game...playing in the dirt and grass with his cleats. One game he found a stick and it played and played in the dirt. He nearly was hit by a stampede of kids and he never even noticed!

Fair 2011

2011-10-20T19:12:00.011-05:00

This year, as we do every year, we headed out to the Fair and Rodeo! This year Hayden was mesmerized by the Rodeo events. So I can't help but wonder if this is something he would like to pursue one day. I could handle Hayden Barrel Racing, Saddle or Bareback Bronc Riding, but if he EVER thinks about getting on a bull, I don't care how old he is, I will FORBID it. Its too scary for a Mama to take! After the Rodeo we went and rode rides and a pony and then we went into the petting zoo. He was also the cowboy in a cute little play. We had tons of fun this year!

Now, I know I'm partial...but is this not the CUTEST little cowboy you have EVER laid eyes on? He is going to be such a heart breaker!

Getting ready for the play!

Just keep swimming, just keep swimming

2011-08-04T21:33:00.002-05:00

This past June Hayden took swimming lessons for the first time. He has always loved the water but was the type to have you in a choke hold. I don't know what type of hypnosis Miss Sandy put on Hayden but I was SHOCKED on show and tell day. Hayden was going under water and kicking his feet like crazy. He loved it!! Since swimming lessons he is still just as comfortable in the water. It doesn't matter if we are in a pool or the lake, he loves going under and making frog legs. It is amazing. He is just so brave now, almost too brave! I am one proud Mommy!

Zoobilee 2011

2011-08-04T21:15:00.003-05:00

As always, Zoobilee was a lot of fun! Tons of food, drinks and activities for the kiddos. We went early and there were no lines to wait in and not at all crowded, pretty nice! Even with all the excitement Hayden's favorite part is looking at all the animals. He gets frustrated that we can't go through the whole zoo...but he still had tons of fun!

Easter 2011

2011-08-04T20:57:00.002-05:00

We had a great Easter this year. We spent time with both sides of the family and enjoyed good food and fellowship!

I love this picture of Hayden and his cousins. Just so swett and I LOVE Kathryn's face. She is just done with doing a photoshoot with the boys!

Sea World

2011-07-04T21:27:00.004-05:00

Of course, while in San Antonio, we had to go to Sea World. Hayden had a blast. Matt and I decided to only do shows and animals, so we will have to go back sometime for a little water park fun!

The little whale in the middle was premiering in his first show!

Of course Hayden HAD TO HAVE a Mommy and Baby just like the show.

Looking for Dolphins

The Azul show...it was artsy and not my favorite. We even had to suddenly pause the show because the dolphins wanted to mate....seriously. Crazyness :)

Sweet 8 day old sea lion!!

The Sea Lion show was my absolute favorite. I even remembered it from when I was a child. I loved it back then too!!

We had a great time on our weekender in San Antonio. We love it there and can't wait to go back!!

Dinosaur Quest

2011-04-23T11:26:00.009-05:00

So while we were in San Antonio we stopped into Dinosaur Quest. Hayden is totally obsessed with dino's so of course he was in totally aw!!

Riverwalk 2011

2011-04-23T11:26:00.007-05:00

Back in April {I know I'm way behind on blogging} our little family took a weekend trip to San Antonio. We had LOTS of fun and it was so nice to get out of town for the weekend!

This is the view from out room at the Hotel Contessa

That heart shaped island is known to be the luckiest place to get married.

Sure enough the next day...

Matt and I on the lucky love island...

We had no idea that the weekend we happened to pick was the Fiesta Festival Weekend...bonus parade, crowd, traffic...etc

A pretty building in Fiesta lighting...

A floating Mariachi Band playing at our dinner...

1/2 of my dinner date...isn't he the most HANDSOME guy you've ever seen? I'm in LOVE!!

and the duck Hayden wouldn't stop feeding chips too...

We had such a great time and I have more to share that will have to be shared on another post, eventually.... :)

Couch to 5K

2011-04-08T23:45:00.004-05:00

Alright Ladies, so about two weeks ago I started the couch to 5k program. For those of you who don't know its a 9 week walking/jogging app. The purpose is to over 9 weeks gradually get you to were you can run a 5k or 30 minutes straight. My first day I had SERIOUS doubts. I injured my foot back in October and by the end of the session I could barley bare weight on my foot. I was in near tears thinking I physically can't do this. I'm too heavy and my foot can't take the pressure, but I stuck with it. So I reached the end of the 1st week and post it on facebook and I mentioned that I thought I would repeat week 1 because I didn't feel like I was ready to advance. My friend told me to go ahead with week 2. She said I would be surprised at what I can do. SHE WAS RIGHT! Tonight I did the 2nd day of week 2 and I had never felt better. I had energy and I was PROUD of myself. My foot doesn't even hurt!! Even though its early in the program, I feel I have made a huge accomplishment! Between the 2 weeks of the program and trying really hard at portion control I am down 7 pounds...7 freakin pounds people! I can't believe it. I just am beyond happy. But there is always a catch...see no matter how happy I am with myself on a diet or exercise, when the going gets tough, I quit. I love to quit. Nothing makes me happier then giving up on something hard. Sounds so stupid, but it's the honest truth. So this is were I need YOUR help. To anyone that reads my blog or that is friends with me on Facebook. I need you to keep me accountable. I don't want to quit this, I want a happier healthier lifestyle. I need this for Hayden and any other children that come my way. If you haven't seen a c25K post from me on facebook, I need you to ask me what's up. I need encouragement to keep going!!! My goal is to finish the program and MAYBE one day actually run a 5K!!!

Blake Shelton, baby!

2011-02-27T13:28:00.002-06:00

Last weekend (2.19.2011) my friends and I went to see my honey, Blake in concert. Steel Magnolia and Easton Corbin opened the concert and they played really well....but nothing compared to my love....We had a BLAST!!!!! It was a great girl's night out!

Sorry the pics are blurry, I only had my cell phone with me!!

I love this one, because it kinda looks like he is looking right at me!!!

My Honey hard at work....

Ice Day 2.9.2011

2011-02-27T13:06:00.003-06:00

What do you do on boring ice days? Color...a lot!

This is his 'mom stop taking my picture' face...

His Masterpiece!!

Snow Day 2.4.2011

2011-02-13T22:12:00.001-06:00

We were able to go outside and play for a little bit before we left for West, Texas. Isn't my little honey so handsome!?!?!!? He looks just like his daddy!

God will never let you down....

2011-02-05T16:39:00.002-06:00

Well, contrary to the post below...we did make it to say goodbye to my Grandmother. Once the sun started to melt Friday afternoon my husband looked at me and said "I think this is our chance" Man oh man we booked. He hurried Hayden over to my in-laws and I called Holly and told her we were going. She got her kids squared away and we threw everything in the truck a boogied.

The overall ride was pretty smooth. There was about two hours that were pretty scary. The ice was just everywhere, but my husband was so careful and slow. We made it just fine!

We didn't tell our parents we were coming because we knew we would get the "its too dangerous" spill and we didn't want to worry them. So when we came in town my sister called the hotel where we usually stay and boom its full, we called 4 other hotel everyone is booked. The front desk lady at my parents hotel was nice enough to call a competitor and snag us the last room available!! While we are searching for shelter my Mom call me and we told her we were in town. She was so happy. She said that she felt like everything was complete...and it truly was. God didn't let us down, He didn't prevent us from anything. He just had a different arrival time then we did!!

We had the service today and it was beautiful. I am so glad I was able to say my final goodbye to my Sweet Grannie in person...all is right in my world.

Sweet Grannie

2011-02-04T11:21:00.003-06:00

Most of you know by now that my Grandmother has passed away. (Her obit for those that might want to see )She died just before 2 am on 2.1.2011 and she didn't make it easy for any of us! My parents and Uncle left for Odessa as soon as they got the call from the Hospice nurse that she wouldn't make it through the night. They only got to Abilene Monday night and have been stuck there until today. Matt and I tried to drive out yesterday, we made it all the way to Winters, Texas but it was just too dangerous. The streets became solid ice with no tracks. Cars were sliding off the road, so we turned around and came home. My sister's plan was to fly out this afternoon, so I got a plane ticket for the same flight, but of course this morning the flights were canceled.

We have tried everything. It just isn't going to be in the cards. My best friend told me that there must be a reason, it's God's plan. My reply was that I felt the same way, but I can't help but feel resentful...why would he not want us to say our final goodbye? She told me that is was ok to feel resentful. God is big enough to take whatever I'm feeling. She's right. It's ok for me to feel mad, sad, resentful, hurt...He will open arms for me no matter how i feel.

The picture below is all I have of my Grandmother at her 82nd birthday party we had for her in June 2010. I am so glad we made that trip. That is the last time I saw her. I will cherish that weekend forever.

My husbands co-worker as him what he thought my Grandmother's first words were when she got to Heaven. Matt replied, she said "Hi Darlin'!" I know she did. She saw Jesus and Grampie at the Pearly Gates and that is exactly what she said...

I love you so much Grannie. I am so sorry I can't say goodbye to you in person, but I know you understand. You will be greatly missed.

January 2011

2011-01-29T19:26:00.005-06:00

Sooo, 2011 has kinda been a rocky start for us. Week one was typical. just the standard New Year hoopla and a boring week to follow. Day 8 of January, BOOM, worlds fall apart. We get a call from family in West Texas that my uncle has an abdominal aortic tear. When my family heard this our worlds stopped. We knew how serious this is, it mostly leads to death. Patients usually don't make it to the ER alive. The fact that my Uncle is with us today...God's Miracle. To make a long story short...he was care flighted by plane (not helicopter, crazy to think, huh?) from Odessa to Houston, and in surgery for about 5 or so hours...with his heart stopped for about 2 or so hours of the surgery. Are you kidding me?!!? Thank you God for not being ready for Uncle Toby!! He is currently recovering at my Mom's house and will be headed back home to Odessa in 6 weeks or so! MIRACLE!

So the very same weekend Hayden is defeated by the flu. Sickest little kid on earth. (Sorry the pictures aren't great they are all from my phone) I of course immediately separate myself from Hayden, not knowing if I would be making an emergency drive to Houston, or God forbid services in Odessa...something I just cant be sick for. Luckily there was no traveling needed. So I stayed home with Hayden for one of the days he was sick so daddy could catch up on work.

So of course towards the end of week 2 and half of week 3 I get the flu. Just the one day with Hayden was all my body needed to be invaded. Matt of course never even got a sniffle. Lucky duck. Anyhow, I was just sick as dog and Matt waited on me hand and foot. So sweet to me!

So while I was bedridden, Matthew thought it was a good idea to shave Hayden's head in the middle of winter. We shave his head every summer, but really it was at Hayden's request that he have his head shaved now. Matt shaves his head every week and of course Hayden has to be just like him! It really is the only calm way to cut Hayden's hair. Whenever someone cuts his hair with scissors he thinks they are going to cut his head off and screams and screams and screams...totally embarrassing.

This past week was the first week I worked a 40 hr week since before CHRISTMAS, talk about hard. I thought those little 5 in a row 8 hour days were going to kill me.

Everything is back to normal. Hayden is growing so big and wants to help me with EVERYTHING. He all the sudden wants to help cook, don't know where that came from. He also likes to help with the dishes! Yay! I do believe I will take advantage and train him now for a future chore! :)

Christmas Day

2010-12-31T19:39:00.004-06:00

Christmas Morning was so much fun! Hayden wasn't sure at first what to think and then he was really excited when he knew all the toys were for HIM!

Look what Santa brought!

Not so sure what to think at first...

Excitement! Those are mine!?!

Checking out what is in his stocking...

Opening presents! He loved every minute!

That afternoon we went over to my parents house and exchanged gifts with the Hurst and Bennett family. It is always so much fun to have the Bennett kiddos and Hayden together. Those three are a M.E.S.S. After we left my mom's we went to Matthew's Grandmother's house for Christmas with his side of the family and then on Sunday we headed back to Lorena to have Christmas at Matthew's Mom's house for Christmas with the Strahan/Yarber family.

Formulating a game plan...

On a different note...you see the skinny lady handing a gift to my Nephew Michael? That is my Mom! I know a lot of you remember her as a school nurse. She has lost over 100lbs! Doesn't she look A.MAZ.ING!?!?!?

Christmas Eve Traditions

2010-12-31T18:52:00.002-06:00

I love having traditions on Christmas Eve! I love how I've claimed as my night. With the hustle and bustle of going to go to 3 family Christmas get-togethers {besides our own Christmas in the morning} its nice to have a peaceful Eve with my two boys. We ride around and look at Christmas lights, we watch Christmas movies, eat some yummy dinner, feed to reindeer, put out milk and cookies and of course read our favorite Christmas books.

The books we read.

Hayden telling us not to eat Santa's cookies

Of course he needs a sip

My sweet boy :)

Reindeer Food

2010-12-31T18:16:00.003-06:00

Making a sweet treat for Santa's Reindeer

Santa's Cookies

2010-12-31T17:33:00.002-06:00

As we did last year, Hayden and I made cookies for Santa. I really thought he wouldn't be interested this year, but he was loving it from start to finish!

Rolling the dough

Cutting cookies

So excited!

Time to decorate!

He thinks Santa likes LOTS of sprinkles!!

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-11T17:55:00.001-06:00

Family Snowfall Red Christmas

For hundreds of Christmas card designs, click here.

View the entire collection of cards.

Better Late then Never??

2010-12-05T13:32:00.004-06:00

Halloween 2010

Trick or Treating at Grandma and PaPa's

A Tiger in the tree....

SpiderMan admiring his new muscles...

A super sassy Tinkerbell....

What do Tiger's dream of when they take their little tiger snooze?

Fall Carnival

2010-11-04T19:34:00.003-05:00

Last Saturday me and my bestie's went to a fall carnival in McGregor with all the kiddo's. It was lots of fun to watch the boys play and the carnival was nice and clean!!

My Bestie's Amanda and Brandi. Sista's from anota Mista...I love both of these ladies like I love my family. Both of them are always there when I need them. We all love the same things and have the same values. It's amazing how much a like we all are. I don't often get to spend time with both of them at the same time, but when I do it's twice as sweet!!!

Their boys: two are blood brothers and two are brotha's from anotha motha ;)

Making a game plan...

This is how Brandi and Amanda were the WHOLE night. l have a bum foot right now and couldn't chase after Hayden in my awesome boot. They ran all over the place after him! They held him for most of the night, because he was a little too young for the rides and the rides he could have rode he was too scared to (he gets that from his Dad). They also held my purse and Hayden's coat the whole night too. There isn't anything wrong with my arms or shoulders, but sometimes when you get the chance you just gotta milk it! hahah :)

Not the best pic of us, but it is the only one I have of us together, with him looking at the camera in like two years! So I felt the need to share...

A DIno-Mite Party!

2010-10-31T15:29:00.004-05:00

Yesterday we celebrated Hayden's 3rd birthday with a Dino Theme party. Currently he is OBSESSED with Dinosaurs...so it was a perfect party theme for him! I didn't take hardly any pictures myself (i didn't know where my head was during the party) :/ , but someone sweet grabbed my camera and took some great pics for me! Enjoy!

Pumpkin Patch Past & Present

2010-10-24T14:00:00.009-05:00

2008

2009

2010

Fair Trip

2010-10-22T21:52:00.002-05:00

Last week we took a trip to the fair. We kept telling Hayden we were going to pet some animals and he kept telling us he wanted to "pet a tiger" HAHA um NO! That is not a petting zoo I want to visit! Hayden had so much fun! He also took a pony ride! All day long he talked about that pony ride! It made me so happy that he really enjoyed himself!

This picture makes me laugh...I wonder what is going through his head...why does that horse look different?...better not get too close!

Trying to coax a baby goat to him

So happy to ride a pony!

ATTN ALL MOMS...I NEED HELP!!!

2010-09-13T21:24:00.005-05:00

*Warning this post is to just let me vent a little*

So Hayden has become a little monster lately. I am really just so frustrated!!! Before he turned 2 we had already entered the "terrible 2" stage and then shortly after 2 he mellowed, now he is turning 3 and throwing the WORST fits. I thought we were supposed to be over this attitude!

So now he is refusing everything I ask him to do. Really I don't "ask" anything I tell him.

First it started off with the toys. He is REFUSING to clean up from playtime. I now have to threatened to throw his toys away and have to have a trash bag in hand for him to even think about picking up.

Then it went to eating he REFUSED whatever I put in front of him. I am the type of Mother that isn't a "short order cook" if you don't like what I make for dinner...you don't eat. Unfortunately for Hayden he has gone to bed hungry a many a night. Is this too harsh? Am I just overreacting to the thought of someone immediately rejecting my loving home cooked meal?

Now he is REFUSING to take a bath or a shower. I don't know why. He has ALWAYS loved to take a bath. He used to request a bath throughout the day because he loved them so much. I don't know why, nothing has happened. He hasn't fallen, the water isn't too hot, he hasn't had a near drowning. Now it's literally like trying to bath a cat. He screams and cry and tries to climb out. You would think we are pouring boiling water over him. I don't know what to think.

He also is REFUSING to cut his hair. Matt has always shaved his head to be "like Daddy" Now he won't let us come near him with the shears. He tell us not to "take his hair" His hair is so overgrown he is starting to look "unkept" I know I need to just take him to smarty pants or something, but I am so afraid of the way he will react and I really don't want to have to hog tie him for a haircut. What should I do???

Bedtime. Geez. A year ago when we moved we had a hard time getting Hayden to stay in is room. He would immediately come into the living or the bedroom, or wherever Matt and I were. He would have to walk him back a thousand times and then we would get so tried of playing games and would have to go to bed that we would just let him sleep with us. So finally one night Matt just put his crib back up so he couldn't get out. So that worked about great for about three month, then he converted his bed back to a toddler bed and all was fine. Well a YEAR later he is REFUSING to sleep in his bed. He has to get into ours. I don't know what made him change his mind about his room. So here we are playing the back and forth game. I hate having my son go to bed in tears. I hate that the last thing he hears from us at night are threats of a spanking, but I don't know what else to do! He still comes into our room about 4am EVERY NIGHT. By that time Matt and I are too tried and have to get up in two hours. So in our bed he goes. I just don't know what to do!!!

Potty training...psssh what potty training. Don't even get me started.

I explain everything to him and in a loving way. Hayden you have to take a bath because...Hayden the reason Mommy needs you to sleep in your bed is because....Hayden you need to potty in the big boy potty is because.... I always try to make him understand. I always explain the reasoning's for everything. He just doesn't care and SCREAMS at me!

I really go to bed some night and think How am I even supposed to handle him? How the hell do I be a good Mother. Why the hell won't he listen to us? Why is he so mean? What made him become a loud DEMANDING child?

I will gladly take ANY AND ALL suggestion anyone has to any of the above refusals. I'm to a point to where I just want to wave my white flag and say screw it, he can do whatever he wants. I am tried of fighting him!!!

Build A Bear or a Mammoth...

2010-08-09T20:06:00.006-05:00

A couple of weekends ago I took Hayden to Build A Bear. Even though Hayden isn't real big on stuffed animals I wanted him to experience the Build A Bear world!! We probably won't be going back until baby number #2 needs to have his/her own experience (this is not an announcement that we are expecting lol just an FYI for you Mom!!)

Hayden TRYING to pick just one

Checking out the sounds

Thinking about putting his foot on the pedal

Stuffing the heart!

Giving the Mammoth a bath...

The best picture of ALL....my HANDSOME Hayden!!!!

I didn't get a picture of the finished product because by that time I had to help and needed two hands!! We ended up bringing home a Buzz Light-Year Mammoth...named Buzz of course! I'm sure it's the only one in Waco ;)

Playdate with the Bottoms!

2010-07-31T20:06:00.007-05:00

We spent this morning with a play date with Megan and Parker Bottoms!! Parker and Hayden have known each other since they were 3 months old. They became fast friends and we enjoy their company. It also helps that Megan is so sweet and I love sitting and talking with her!

It's so fun to know that Hayden and Parker have many more memories to make together. The Bottoms are also fellow Lorena Leopards and that is where Matthew wants Hayden to go to school. So once we settle in Lorena these boys will be in the same grade and play sports together! I can't wait for Megan and I to be sitting in the stands together cheering for our boys!!

I love when we get pictures of the two of them together because I can't help but think we can use these on their Senior page and embarrass the crap out of them!! haha!

Lights, Camera, Action!!

2010-06-26T20:52:00.004-05:00

Last Thursday we took Hayden to see his very first movie!! *TEAR* He is just growing up too fast! As much as I enjoy "the firsts" it makes me so sad because I feel like I am running out of time!

I had a friend post about how her kiddo was going to be 3 in 4 months and panic went through my body!!! Our kids are 10 days apart so it hit me that HAYDEN WILL BE 3 IN 4 MONTHS!!!! NO!!!!

Anyway, I will save this sap for another post! Hayden LOVES TOY STORY! He loves 1, 2 and now 3. He sleeps with 4 toys every night...2 Buzz's and 2 Woody's! Toy Story 1 and 2 are the only movies he is interested in watching and it has been this way for about 3 months now...

So when Matthew and I found out that Toy Story 3 was coming out, we knew this had to be Hayden's first movie. No doubt.

I was a little nervous about how he would react to the people, big screen, the darkness...but he was GREAT! He sat threw the whole thing without BLINKING! He was MESMERIZED! We totally did up the movie night! We bought popcorn, cokes and candies (which Matthew and I NEVER do) it was a lot of fun!!

Poor Hayden sat in a V the whole time! He wanted to sit back but he legs weren't heavy enough to weigh the seat down! I was telling my co-workers at lunch about it and they told me that the theaters have booster seats for kids! LOL I had no idea! Poor Hayden! Oh well, Momma knows better now!

Here are some pics outside the theater in front of the movie poster. I didn't take any pics inside because my phone doesn't have a flash and I wasn't going to lug our huge camera around!

P.S. I know it doesn't look like Matt was happy to be there but he was! He wasn't happy that I was making stand outside taking pictures with a crowd of people near by!! :)

Grannie's 82!!

2010-06-13T21:50:00.003-05:00

This weekend Matt, Hayden and I made a quick trip to west Texas to celebrate Grannie's 82nd birthday! She looked great and her mind was clear (which I was worried about, I didn't want my Grannie to forget who I was!!)

We had a small family party for her at the nursing home. We ate good food and also had some cake! I think Grannie was most happy about drinking a Diet Dr. Pepper!! She was so funny and sassy as ever...she has ALWAYS been a sass mouth Grannie...she is hysterical!

I am so glad we were able to celebrate Grannie! I love her and miss her very much! It was a long drive but WELL WORTH THE TRIP!! We love you Grannie!

Discipline needed…

2010-06-13T21:33:00.003-05:00

I guess we may be sending Hayden to time out a little too much!! He is taking it out on his toys!

Weekend at the Lake

2010-05-30T23:41:00.004-05:00

Matt's parents practically live at the lake all summer. No joke...they spend 2 weeks there and then home for 2 weeks and then back at the lake...so on and so forth. So this is the first weekend of the year that we spent the weekend with them at their campsite. We have a lot of fun and Hayden LOVES the lake! He is 150% boy and loves the outdoors. I didn't take a lot of pics being that I don't do well with expensive electronics around a large body of water!

This is Hayden fishing for the first time...He hasn't gotten casting down...but he can reel in his line like no body's business. He didn't catch anything this time. Mainly because he won't leave his line in the water long enough...something else we need to work on. Matt loves to fish and hasn't been in a while, so he was glad he was able to cast a line this weekend. I love the thought of Hayden and Daddy going fishing together. I know this will be a love that they will both share!

It is so much fun to see his excitement about being at the lake and thinking about how much fun we is going to have their for years and years to come!

I posted this pic just because I love it...Matt taking it all in!

Hello, did ya miss me?

2010-05-17T21:44:00.002-05:00

It's been a while since I have posted anything! There really isn't much to post about. I haven't even been taking any pictures...come to think of it I'm not totally sure where my camera is right now...hmm.

I do have one thing to brag about...Hayden of course! We had his cardiology follow-up with Dr. Wong in Austin on Friday. I didn't sleep at all on Thursday. I was just so nervous as to what they were going to see. It had been a whole year since our last check-up and even though he has been showing no signs of trouble, I couldn't help but wonder what was going on in the little body of his.

We arrived to our appt and Hayden was not wanting to cooperate. He had no desire to be weighed or measured. I thought great this is the easy part we are going to have to strap this boy down to get a good echo.

So after the weight/height (28lbs and 36 in) he had his blood pressure taken. It was good which I was glad about because last time it was a little high. He did ok during that and then he had his EKG which he sat fairly still for. It looked good. Then he played and ran all over the room until Dr. Wong came in.

Dr. Wong listened to his heart and he said that it was very quiet compared to last year. Which is good because if you ever listened to Hayden's heart in the past it was loud and noisy with a whooshing sound.

So we had the echo...the part I was most nervous about...b/c of what they would find or what they wouldn't find b/c Hayden wasn't going to sit still. Hayden laid on that table they popped in "Finding Nemo" (his favorite movie this month) and I gave him a special chocolate milk treat and he laid perfectly still for 30 plus minutes. I was soooo soooo sooo proud of him. He was perfect.

The echo looked great. His valve that they widened when he was four months old is still wide. The holes that they found over a year ago had closed on there own. His heart wall was a little enlarged, since his valve is crooked instead of straight...when the blood pumps from the valve it hits that heart wall and that's why it is enlarged. That is something that Dr. Wong said he is not too worried about right now. Yeah! Good report!

My mom came with us to give me some support. She knew I was super nervous. So after his appointment we all ate a great lunch at Texas Land and Cattle and did some shopping! It turned out to be a pretty fun little Friday!

Praise the Lord he had a great appointment, but on the downside he became ill on Saturday with vomiting and fever. This evening he seems to be feeling better so I think his bug is on the way out the door!

Eggs!

2010-04-04T09:58:00.006-05:00

Hayden and I dyed Easter eggs together yesterday. I was quick, easy, and a little messy. As always we had fun spending time together. Yesterday we also went on an egg hunt with cousins Michael and Kathryn. Guess who forgot her camera!

I got nada

2010-03-17T21:14:00.003-05:00

It's really sad to say that there has been NOTHING going on lately. No new cute pics of Hayden, no spectacular news, no fun little play dates or activities. For the entire month of March it has been work and sleep, work and sleep.

I did have a birthday...27 years old now...nothing special. I had a little family birthday party, that was nice....um let me think let me think...

I found a website http://www.shoedazzle.com/ that I think I am going to join...hope it's not too good to be true...hmmm...Matt has been working a lot of overtime this month...so that stinks. Even though the extra money is nice I would rather have him home with me.

What else? I'm having a Mary Kay party at my house on Saturday...so hopefully that will be fun...

Well, I guess that is everything...I know, I just gave you a super exciting post...you're welcome!

2 Years Heart Healthy Hayden

2010-03-07T10:52:00.005-06:00

Well, it's already been two years. Two years since Matt and I was scared out our mind. Two years since we signed scary consent forms that said "greatest risk death" Two years ago today two sweet little cath lab nurses had to pry my 4 month old baby out of my arms and take him to have his heart valve fixed.

We were at Dell Children's Hospital. It was about a 4 hour procedure. They called us every 30 min with an update on his condition. The minute he was in recovery they took me back to nurse him. I got to see his sweet swollen little eyes, but the best part was that I felt Hayden's hands and they were WARM. For the first time in his 4 months of life Hayden had warm hands and feet! I knew at that moment he was going to be fine. Dr. Wong came and told me that the cath was a success. So.So.So. thankful!

That day to me felt so traumatic and scary. Now 2 years later it makes me laugh of how dramatic I felt...like it was really no big deal. Even though it totally was to me.

I still don't understand why this had to be my baby. I never would have thought I would have a child with heart disease, but he does and that won't ever change. So instead of asking God why, I say thank you God! Thank you for giving Dr. Ferguson the knowledge and quick thinking to get him tested and diagnosed. Thank you for giving us Dr. Wong and asking him to be so sweet with me while I bawled and bawled on the phone with him, and for promptly taking Hayden to the cath lab. Thank you God for giving us Hayden.

This is Hayden, 4 months old, 4 or 5 hours after he got out of the cath lab 3.7.2008

This is Hayden today enjoying a special chocolate 2 year anniversary donut 3.7.2010

Neighborhood Watch

2010-02-27T19:50:00.003-06:00

This is were Hayden loves to be lately. He tells me when cars drive by, when a puppy is out, or when somebody is jogging. He constantly wants to look out the kitchen window!! He especially loves it on nice sunny days like today, because I will open the window. If someone is taking a stroll around the neighborhood he yells hello to them and they just look around like where is that coming from?? It's pretty funny!
When it snowed earlier this week he HAD to sit here and watch the snow. He didn't want to miss anything! We would go out and play come in and strip our wet clothes off and he immediately needed to be on the counter to watch the snow. My parents also came by earlier this week to visit and this is where he needed to be to greet them.

I always know where he wants to be when he comes running up to me with his arms high in the air yelling "I want to see!" Maybe when he is all grown up with a house and family of his own he will be head of his neighborhood watch!

Snow Yo!

2010-02-23T21:38:00.005-06:00

So we played and played and played in the snow. I didn't get any good pics during the day b/c I was chasing a 2 year old around and didn't want to drop my camera in the snow :( but when Matt came home he snapped lots of shots.

Hayden loved the snow so.so.so. much. He could have stayed in it all day! We made a "snowman" I added the quotes for sarcasm because it really turned out to be three balls of snow. I forgot the buttons, carrot, cole, pipe and top hat inside {I totally don't have any of that stuff!} and it was getting late so I didn't feel like getting creative...I know I'm a horrible Mom, thinking about getting inside and getting him in the bath! Nevertheless he loved helping me make the "snowman" and loved knocking it down even more!

Getting dressed for the weather

Hayden and Mom about to head out for the first time.

"Snowman"

Hayden putting in the arm

He totally didn't want to take this picture...but I made him!

It's Michael! It's Michael!

2010-02-20T22:29:00.002-06:00

So Matt and I offered to have Michael for the day on Saturday to get him out of the hospital and give Holly and Doug a break. Holly called Friday and said that Michael wanted to spend the night with us on Friday so it was an extra special treat to have him as our first sleepover guest :)

Hayden was so excited when we told him his cousin was coming to play. When he arrived Hayden acted happy but shy. Michael did so well! I thought with being in a strange place at night we would be calling Daddy by 11, but nope he went right to sleep and woke up in a great mood. When Hayden woke up and realized that Michael was still here he was SCREAMING It's Michael! IT'S MICHAEL!!!!

We ate a big breakfast and then got ready to go to town. First, we stopped and visited Papaw at the Gun Shop, then off to the Zoo. {where I forgot my camera at home :( } We came home and had lunch and a sweet Popsicle treat. Hayden took his nap and as soon as he was up we took off for the park!

I asked Michael if he wanted to spend the night with us tonight and his reply was "he has had a big day, and he would really need to talk to his parents about that" SO FUNNY! Needless to say he told me he was ready to go see his family. So we went to the hospital to visit Kathryn, but Michael just wanted us to drop him off at the elevators!

We had so much fun spending time with my funny little nephew. I hope we have him again soon!

Kathryn Update

2010-02-20T19:43:00.005-06:00

So Kathryn is doing so.so.so. much better. She has been so sick with fever a almost 2 weeks getting Motrin and Tylenol round the clock by her parents and also when she was admitted to the hospital. The doctor realized that she may developed an allergy to Motrin {even though she has been taking Motrin for a long time with no problem at all} So he stopped the Motrin, her fever went down, her rash started to fade, and her swelling decreased. She also hasn't had any seizures {her EEG results still aren't in} So hopefully she will be discharged from the hospital soon!

Thank you to everyone who prayed for my sweet sweet niece. God heard all of you!

I took this picture today. I wish I had a before and after. I'm sure my sister Holly will post something on her blog once they are home and settled. She looks A.MAZ.ING!!!

Pleading for Prayers

2010-02-17T19:38:00.004-06:00

My 21 month old niece, Kathryn, is very ill. She has been having off and on seizures {currently being managed by medication} when her fever gets very high. She has a horrible rash all over her body. She is so so so swollen. Her fever was up to 105 when I visited her at the hospital tonight. Currently checking for rheumatic fever and among other things! Thankfully Kawasaki Disease has been ruled out.

My heart is breaking for her. She is the sweetest thing...she lights up the room with her smile, she is just so full of life and fun. To see her so pitiful is just devastating. To see her laying in the bed miserable it is just flat out heart breaking.

I am asking, begging, pleading for your prayers. Please pray for recovery for Kathryn. Please pray for peace of mind for my sister and brother-in-law. Please pray for my sweet nephew who is going out of his mind stir crazy :)

I love you doodlebug~Aunt Heather

ELMO LIVE

2010-02-14T16:29:00.007-06:00

We went to see Elmo live today. The entire Sesame Street gang was there. The show was all about using your imagination...so cute! Hayden had a blast! He thought it was A.MAZ.ING!! I don't think he ever blinked for the entire show! We took TONS of pictures but not any good ones of Hayden's face because he refused to look away from the stage!

Hayden and Daddy before the show

Proud Momma

Cookie Monster
Elmo

Big Bird

Burt and Ernie

An imaginary octopus

Oscar (my favorite Sesame character!)

We had so much fun! Can't wait to go again next year!!

Goin' out with my boots on...

2010-02-14T16:14:00.005-06:00

Hayden has been telling me he wants boots. He has rain boots that he wears occasionally but he wants "REAL BOOTS" Today he decided that he was just going to wear daddy's boots and didn't want to take them off. So I said ok we will get you your boots TODAY!

So we went to Richie's and bought him the cutest pair of boots ever! He looks adorable and was so happy at the store. He was telling the sales lady that these were HIS BOOTS! She fumbled with the boots and accidentally drop one and Hayden said "You dropped my boot!" she thought he was too cute!

He loves them so much he wont take them off! Watch out little girls Momma is raisin a STUD!!!

How sweet it is to be loved by you...

2010-02-13T18:17:00.003-06:00

Yesterday was a wonderful day! Matthew and I celebrated our Valentine's Day early.

First, I was surprised at work with such a sweet gift! It really means a lot to me because up until the end of last year Matthew and I haven't exchanged gifts with each other for any holiday for 6 years! Not because we didn't want to, but something was always needing to be paid...or someone is always having a birthday or wedding...we always seem to put something else before us!! Not that I need a sweet gift...but it sure makes me feel special ;) Then, I was surprised with a date night! We went out to eat and we were going to see a movie, but we decided to rent one and go to our warm home instead. Can you believe this weather?? FREEZING! Anyway what a wonderful feeling it is to know your loved! I love you Matthew!

Baby Talk

2010-01-31T19:37:00.002-06:00

So Matt and I have been flirting the with idea of starting to try to have another baby. From time to time we will ask Hayden if he wants Momma to have a baby and he always says NO! This is the conversation at the dinner table tonight:

Momma: Hayden do you want Momma to have a baby?
Hayden: Ok!
Momma: You do?! Do you want Momma to have a baby girl or a baby boy?
Hayden: blank stare...
Momma: Hayden, do you want a brother like Michael or a sister like Kathryn? {my nephew and niece}
Hayden: Baby Monkey!
Daddy: Sorry buddy, Momma can't have a baby monkey. Do you want a girl or boy?
Hayden: BABY MONKEY!!!

He will be so disappointed....

Hayden where are you?

2010-01-29T13:19:00.003-06:00

That's Hayden's new favorite question...Momma where are you? Dadda where are you? Baby elephant where are you? {which reminds me I still need to replace the baby elephant that ran away}

Hayden has been absent from our household this week. I came down with the flu on Wednesday. The minute I got the diagnosis Matt immediately called his mom to save the day. Obviously, we don't want Hayden to get sick, even though he has had his shots {so did I, but look where that got me} I am so thankful that she has taken care of him for me...there is no way I could have taken him to school or honestly listened to a tantrum, but I miss him so much...I have been fever free all morning and he could come home this afternoon, but Meemaw wants one more day with him...ugh of course, who wouldn't he is adorable!

So tomorrow is the big day...I get to see my baby boy again...and I can stop wondering around the house asking: Hayden where are you?

Improvements

2010-01-18T19:51:00.005-06:00

I never make New Year's resolutions simply because I don't keep them, but lately I have been thinking of thinga in my life I need to improve.

1. Better Christian, of course... Maybe I should start taking my Mom's advice and start attending a church service. This is something that Matt, Hayden and I did on a regular basis, but then Matt's scheduled changed and he was working every other weekend. I made the excuse that is was just too hard to get myself ready and then Hayden ready and be on time. On the weekends that Matt was off we just wanted to relax on Sunday's as much as possible since we go go go on Saturdays. So a good Sunday Service stopped happening for the Strahan's. Now that Matt received his promotion back in October he doesn't have to work weekends...but our Sunday's are still lazy. We have no good excuses anymore. We have to get up and GO!

2. Weight...of course. So I want to join a gym and take fun aerobics classes, but I can't at first. I have to start on my own and stick with it before I let the Y take money out of my account every month and me never set foot in that facility. So after work I can leave Hayden at school and that will give me an hour and a half of "me time" if I can stay off of facebook, I could take a walk or jog, I could do a fun dance/workout video, or I could play the Wii and workout that way. Then I can go get Hayden...seems too simple. HA!

3. Read. I want to start reading books. I have only been reading parenting books for the last 3 years. Time for something else. I have never been a great reader. It makes me so sleepy, but this is something I want to work on. I spend my evenings watching too much TV. Time for something new.

4. Cooking. I love cooking it is something that I really enjoy, but I feel like I make the same thing over and over week after week. I want to expand my recipes. Get new ones and try new foods. I have always been a picky eater. I always said that I hate broccoli...even though I never tried it. Matt came along (he is a total veggie eater LOVES them all) and he made me try broccoli now it's my favorite.

Just a handful of improvements...I can handle all that, right?

Hayden the Helper

2010-01-03T14:02:00.004-06:00

I hate housework...it's no secret. Sometimes I get a burst of energy where I clean from top to bottom! Today Hayden got that same energy! He sang clean up! Clean up! the entire time...I need to try to get him to learn the whole song

he helped me sweep

he helped with the dishes

and he brought towels to wash

Wheew! I couldn't have got it finished without him! Even though it took twice as long! :)

Surprise Pictures

2010-01-03T13:47:00.004-06:00

After I took some pictures of Hayden in Matt's shoes (see below post) I left the camera out (whoops) This could have been a very costly mistake on my part, but I found a sweet surprise when I was downloading the pics to my computer...of course there were a trillion shirt shots, but I kept these...

Daddy's Shoes

2010-01-03T13:41:00.002-06:00

Daddy got a pair of house shoes for Christmas and Hayden has now claimed them as his. He wears them all the time! If Matt is wearing them Hayden pulls them off and runs away...2 minutes later he will walk out of his room like it's no big deal. CUTE!

Christmas Day

2009-12-26T23:18:00.003-06:00

Christmas was a huge success. Hayden was so surprised and loved everything! We had a great day and lots of love was shared. It is so fun for me to see Hayden get so excited and start getting the idea of Santa and everything special that goes along with him. I can't wait for next year because I know it will even be better!

Christmas 2009

Christmas Eve

2009-12-24T21:20:00.010-06:00

Wow...my heart is full! Even though this is Hayden's third Christmas, so far this have been the best one yet! He is old enough to know that something magical is happening tonight and he just has this beautiful sparkle in his eyes! Tonight we started many traditions that we will keep going for years to come!

We drove around to look at the Christmas lights!

We made cookies for Santa!

We threw out the rei reer (reindeer) feed
Hayden kept yelling for them to EAT!

We read our Christmas Eve bedtime stories!
And of course, set out the Milk and Cookies for Santa!

Let it Snow, let it snow, let it SNOW!

2009-12-24T21:07:00.003-06:00

I still can't get over the fact that it SNOWED on Christmas Eve! Who didn't have a childhood dream of a white Christmas!?!!?

Naughty List

2009-12-12T21:59:00.002-06:00

Hayden made the naughty list today...again.

Table Manners

2009-12-06T10:36:00.002-06:00

Looks like elbows on the table aren't a problem around here...it's the feet!

Christmas Stroll

2009-12-02T21:01:00.004-06:00

The company that I work for holds a Christmas Stroll every December. It is a lot of fun and something nice for our family to attend. We made an ornament, ate cookies and drank hot chocolate. We even had story time with Mrs. Clause! We also stood in line to see Santa but of course the boys, being that they are 2, can't wait in a line that long so we left...I didn't get to take a lot of pictures because of course my battery died...but nevertheless we had a great time and look forward to going again next year!

Hayden with his best bud Parker, and his mommy Megan.

Sweet Parker

Sweet Hayden

Hayden looking for toys and candy.
At one point he just picked up the

basket and tried to walk off with it!

Story Time!!

Christmas in the Country

2009-11-28T14:42:00.005-06:00

Today we went to "Christmas in the Country" in Lorena. These events are what I love about small towns! It was a lot of fun! First they had a sweet parade and then we walked around downtown Lorena and saw some fun arts and crafts booths, they had a lot of really pretty jewelery! We ate great food made by the Fire Department and bought some fresh Parmesan from the Texas Cheese House! YUM!

I know it's a lot of pics to look at, but what do you expect when you go to a parade :)

Waiting for them to start

Say Hi!

Momma and Hayden

A TRACTOR! A TRACTOR!!!!!!

The Grinch

This is a car that Uncle Gregg (Matt's Uncle) restored for his friend.

He does amazing work!

Another shot of Gregg's work.

Santa came!!!

Merry Christmas!!!

The Strahan's

The best way to spread Christmas Cheer, is singing loud for all to hear.

2009-11-27T23:13:00.010-06:00

O Christmas Tree! O Christmas Tree!

How richly God has decked thee!

I think this is my favorite part of our tree! I bought it 4 or 5 years ago...and I still think it is my best holiday buy! I just love the thought of Santa and his helpers climbing up a ladder to decorate!
Meet Elf (he has no official name yet) He appeared today from the North Pole with a letter stating he is here to monitor behavior and report back to Santa each night about Hayden. Sadly, I believe Hayden made the naughty list today. Hopefully he can redeem himself tomorrow!

Thanksgiving

2009-11-27T22:26:00.008-06:00

Yesterday we celebrated Thanksgiving with our families. We had lunch at my sister's. It was yummy! My mom was greatly missed, she went to prison on Thursday (to work! haha!) but she still sent her FAMOUS dressing with my Daddy. No worries we will celebrate with her on Saturday! I was incredibly proud of all the kiddos for being so well mannered. My sister and I actually were able to eat with minimal interruption. Hayden ate so much and was very good about say more please and thank you!

That night we celebrated at Matt's grandmother's house, ate more good food and enjoyed great company! Hayden again stuffed his face as if he hasn't eaten in three days...

Here are some pics of the kids at my sister's...why I didn't think to get a family shot of me, Matt and Hayden is beyond me.

Potty Parties

2009-11-22T21:01:00.002-06:00

Hayden is in the middle of potty training and overall I would say it is going well! We have started having potty parties and he loves it! After he has finished his business we sing, dance and celebrate! He gets lots of hugs and kisses and sometime a special treat from a super secret spot in the house. He has had a great attitude with this change and I don't think it will be too long before we are totally trained! My best friend Brandi bought Hayden some super cute Super Hero underwear! I can't wait to see his tiny hiny in them!

Scentsy Fun

2009-11-08T17:36:00.006-06:00

When Matt and I moved into our home my good friend Amanda gave me a Scentsy warmer and some scents for a house warming gift. She has a sister Ashley that is a consultant for Scentsy. It has been wonderful! We keep the warmer in the kitchen and on at all times and you can smell the fragrance through our whole house!

Yesterday I went with Amanda to her sister's house where she was having a Scentsy Party FUN! FUN! I ate a ton of good food and I bought lots of yummy smelly goods. So far my favs are Home Sweet Home, Blueberry Cheesecake, Autumn Sunset, Spiced Carmel, and Pumpkin Roll. I also bought Coffee Shop, French Kiss, Holiday Kiss, Sugar Cookie, lots others I can't remember them all.

The warmers are so nice and have all kinds of styles and tons and tons of fragrances! They would make great Christmas gifts!! Check out the website and hit Ashley up to place your order: http://www.scentsy.com/threecrazykiddoz !!

Trick or Treat Round 2

2009-10-31T22:55:00.012-05:00

We had a great day today. We had lunch at our all time favorite dinning establishment, Chick-fil-a. Headed home for a much needed nap that never happened. After Matt and I gave up on Hayden sleeping we dressed him up and headed out!

First we went to McGregor to see Mimi and Papaw(my parents). Mimi gave lots of good treats and love, but Papaw was still working. So we trick-or-treated at the Hewitt Gun Shop and saw him. Hayden was so happy to see him! (I also noticed a Smith and Wesson revolver that was PINK! Maybe Christmas??) Anyway after we left the good ole boys at the gun shop we headed to Lorena.

We went and saw Meemaw and Peepaw(Matt's parents) and made the rounds to other family members. Lots of love and goodies in Lorena for Hayden!! Then we went to Hewitt Park where the city held a Halloween get together it was great! They had ring toss games, bean bag games, costume contest (which Hayden was nominated for, but he refused to participate) they had hot dogs, pizza, popcorn, cotton candy, cookies...etc and it was FREE!! We met up there with the Bennett Family (my sister) and had a great time with them!

We ended the night with a classic flick...Charlie Brown and the Great Pumpkin Patch! The Charlie Brown movies are just my favorite! I don't think we could of had a better day if we tried!

Happy Halloween!!

Hayden looking for Moo Cows

Taking a break to enjoy some treats

Sweet Snow White (my niece Kathryn)

Scary Skeloten (my nephew Michael)

T-Rex roaming Hewitt Park

Best pic I could get of all three together!

Pumpkin Carving

2009-10-31T22:33:00.007-05:00

Recently we carved a pumpkin with Hayden. He had a good time and loved the pumpkin "guts" He tried to eat pieces of the pumpkin and the guts several times. Hayden kept trying to put the seeds and slim back inside. He had a good time making a mess :)

Trick or Treat Round 1

2009-10-28T22:00:00.010-05:00

Tonight a friend of ours invited us to the trick or treat at her son's daycare. We had a great time...Hayden was a little fussy...but nothing a piece of candy wouldn't cure. I am so proud of Hayden for wearing his costume! Everyday until tonight he kept telling me it hurts...NO...ouch...and fought me tooth and nail putting it on, but tonight he put it on like a champ (except for the hat, that took a while) We had a great time Megan, thanks for inviting us!

Happy Birthday

2009-10-26T17:53:00.006-05:00

Hayden,

Happy Birthday Baby! You are the best thing that has happened to your father and me. We are so proud of you and all that you have accomplished in your short little life. You bring so much joy to us I can't imagine our life without you. I love the way you try to sweet talk your momma, the way you absolutely adore your daddy. You amaze us everyday.

Even though today is a day to celebrate, it makes me so sad. Please stop having birthday's. I can't imagine you getting any older, so please don't. I need you to stay my tiny baby boy forever. Your are morphing into this little boy and I can't stand it! Happy Birthday Hayden, your breakin your momma's heart.

Mommy

Pumpkin Patch Fun

2009-10-25T16:14:00.007-05:00

Today Matt and I took Hayden to the Pumpkin Patch in Lorena. We were only going to take pictures and didn't plan on buying any pumpkins, but of course to Hayden they are must have 'ems. So we mostly bought some little baby pumpkins and one momma pumpkin. Hayden is fascinated with these things now that he sees them everywhere we go. As soon as he seems them he yell's "PUM PUMS!" Too cute!!! We had a good time and it was nice to get out of the house for a little bit today!

Kaska Family Farm

2009-10-25T09:11:00.015-05:00

Yesterday after Hayden's Birthday party we went with my sister and her family to the Kaska Family Farm. If you haven't been...go! You only have until the 31st! We had a blast! Fall is my favorite time of year and this just was really special because it has everything you think about when I think of fall. Hayden went on a cow train ride, we did duck races, played in a corn seed box, took pics in the pumpkin patch (or what is left of it), went on a hayride, dinner and then when it got dark and cool we sat by the fire pit and toasted marshmallows to make smores and drank hot chocolate! How much better could it have been? I took lots of pics so ENJOY!

Michael, Kathryn and Hayden

Sitting on a tractor

This ride was a lot faster than i thought it was going to be!

Duck Races

Sitting on the pumpkins!

His thinking spot

Best family pic we could get

He looks like he is up to something....

The Hayride

Smores and hot chocolate!

Hayden was whooped, but still smiling!

We really enjoyed ourselves and can't wait to go next year! Thanks Kaska Family!

Party Time

2009-10-24T21:26:00.008-05:00

Hayden's birthday party was today. We had a blast...except for the wind! Our theme was firetrucks and everything turned out too cute! We had lots of friends and family that came to celebrate Hayden's special day...it was great!

The kiddos on the back of a firetruck

Birthday boy

The favors

His Cake

M&M that said Hayden is 2! and Happy Birthday!

We had a great time thanks to everyone that came to celebrate with us!!

Take three...

2009-10-23T18:50:00.001-05:00

Ok, so it's obvious that I am not a faithful blogger...I read everyone blog's and think to myself I need to start getting better at this! Hayden is turning two on Monday and I haven't documented any of his life...so I am determined to do so from here on out! I don't know if anyone will read this, but if you do and I start slacking encourage me to BLOG please!!

take two

2009-08-09T00:50:00.001-05:00

I think I am going to give this another try....

Hayden

2008-09-28T13:51:00.000-05:00

First let me apologize for posting old pictures of Hayden. Hayden has become a very light sleeper and the camera is in his room where he is taking his nap. So for now you will have to look at sweet Hayden at 3 weeks old! :)

Ok since I have started this blog right before Hayden turns 1 I thought I would take the time to get caught up on his developments.

Hayden was born on October 26th 2007 after only four hours of labor. I had to be induced two week before my due date because of high blood pressure.

At two months Hayden was 7lbs and sleeping through the night.

At three months Hayden started laughing and holding a rattle. He slept all day and all night. We also winged him from his paci.

At four months Hayden weighed 12lbs and was diagnosed with valve pulmonary stenosis. He was taken to the cath lab at Dell Children's Hospital in Austin. His cardiologist ballooned(widened) valve. The cath was a success.

At 5 months Hayden had a follow-up appt with his cardiologist in April and everything was working and looked great. We went to his last cardio appt in July and they found a tear in Hayden's heart. His cardiologist his hopeful that the tear will fix itself with the thin layer of tissue the is covering it right now. We will know more in November.

At 6-10months growing like a weed. Playing hard, crawling, cruising, talking, eating table food..he does it all. The only thing that is killing me is the sippy cup. He can't quiet figure out how to drink from it. He can drink from a cup without a lid just fine...but it has a top on it...forget it! Any suggestions? I would like to try to master this while he is 11 months, and not have to battle to take the bottle away! Help!

At 11 months Hayden is gearing up for his birthday party! We are all very excited. The small little family party I wanted has turned into this huge party with close family, extended family and friends. The more the merrier right....I'll be the judge of that.

1st time blogger

2008-09-28T11:21:00.001-05:00

Hello everyone! My name is Heather and I am a first time blogger! Please bear with me as I try to learn how to use this site and post pics. I don't know if I will find anyone on this site that I know, but if I do...you may not know me as my married name, Strahan. I am Heather Hurst and I married a Lorena Boy, Matthew, on November 12th 2005. We welcomed our first child, Hayden Hurst Strahan, on October 26th 2007. He is a true joy and very much all boy! He is such a toot! I will have a post a second blog just about him. Anyway, Matthew and I both work at both of the local hospital's in town. We are very busy during the week, but like to relax and do lots of fun stuff with Hayden on the weekends.

I hope to find old friends and read about what is going on with everyone!

Strahan Stories

Rangers, baby!!!

Karate Kid

Dr. Pepper Museum

Volcano Fun

Christmas 2011

Christmas Eve 2011

My Christmas Tree

Oh Christmas Tree!

Ranger Strahan

Trick or Treat!

Preschool Halloween Party

Hayden turns 4!

Sunday Funday...Halloween Style

Pumpkin Patch Kid

YMCA Soccer 2011

Fair 2011

Just keep swimming, just keep swimming

Zoobilee 2011

Easter 2011

Sea World

Dinosaur Quest

Riverwalk 2011

Couch to 5K

Blake Shelton, baby!

Ice Day 2.9.2011

Snow Day 2.4.2011

God will never let you down....

Sweet Grannie

January 2011

Christmas Day

Christmas Eve Traditions

Reindeer Food

Santa's Cookies

Merry Christmas!

Better Late then Never??

Fall Carnival

A DIno-Mite Party!

Pumpkin Patch Past & Present

Fair Trip

ATTN ALL MOMS...I NEED HELP!!!

Build A Bear or a Mammoth...

Playdate with the Bottoms!

Lights, Camera, Action!!

Grannie's 82!!

Discipline needed…

Weekend at the Lake

Hello, did ya miss me?

Eggs!

I got nada

2 Years Heart Healthy Hayden

Neighborhood Watch

Snow Yo!

It's Michael! It's Michael!

**Kathryn Update**

Pleading for Prayers

ELMO LIVE

Goin' out with my boots on...

How sweet it is to be loved by you...

Baby Talk

Hayden where are you?

Improvements

Hayden the Helper

Surprise Pictures

Daddy's Shoes

Christmas Day

Christmas Eve

Let it Snow, let it snow, let it SNOW!

Naughty List

Table Manners

Christmas Stroll

Christmas in the Country

The best way to spread Christmas Cheer, is singing loud for all to hear.

Thanksgiving

Potty Parties

Scentsy Fun

Trick or Treat Round 2

Pumpkin Carving

Trick or Treat Round 1

Happy Birthday

Kathryn Update