The Oglesby Family

TEXAS BOUND

2010-03-01T01:09:00.005-05:00

I just realized that I posted the big news on facebook.. but not the blog..so I will catch up here on the blog!

Taylor is sooooooooo happy... she was accepted at the University of Texas... and into her number choice major - The School of Communications!

The call came on Monday -- we were home for a snow day and Taylor and I were talking about what day she thought would find out if she was accepted to the school.. she thought Tuesday I said Thursday.. as we were talking the phone rang.. it was the Dean of the Students - I handed Taylor the phone and said.. you aren't going to find out tuesday... you're going to find out right now!

Wow.. what a great memory!

The Oglesby family will be wearing a lot of longhorn colors in the years to come!

(It's really hard to get into UT from out of state so this was no easy task)

We our very proud of Taylor and very happy for her too!

The final cheer

2010-02-27T09:23:00.005-05:00

Taylor's last Cheer competiton and last cheer event of her high school career!

This was the district competition.. Taylor is in the back group here tossing her flyer --

Taylor is in the middle group again here

Have no idea how she can find the strength to continue to toss up her flyer for stunt after stunt.. and keep a smile on her face

Taylor's biggest little fan!

That's a wrap!

Madison shows her stuff as the girls wrap up awards

Taylor is all conference -- and received a medal.. but I left early the day that award was handed out.. the only time I ever left early.. figures!

Taylor and her friend Taylor--- Madison loves all the attention!

Taylor has done a fantastic job cheering all 4 years of High School! I know she will miss it alot.. but I think she'll have just as much fun cheering from the stands at UT!

Back Blogging

2010-02-16T05:42:00.007-05:00

Ok, it's been a couple months and facebook has taken over the blogging world.. but I've decided I miss blogging and I'm going back to it!

Here's what the girls have been up to the past couple months-- cheer and gymnastics!

Taylor is wrapping up her cheer season -- and high school cheer career!

There are 4 Taylor's on her team!! Here they all are!

I got a new camera. This practice gym was dark as a cave.. but you wouldn't know it -- my new camera is awesome. but I digress.

Check out taylor's group.. Taylor is a base.. they toss Kelly-- pretty darn high I may add!

(taylor is middle back)

Taylor coming out to the gym for their cheer performance!

e's stretching here... our little girl is now working out with the team and will compete in fun meets in a few months.. how cute is that!

Practice on the balance beam!

In the final three pictures Madison is practicing a cartwheel dismount off the beam.. I think.. Kelly you would know.. but anyway.. here's our Madison working hard!

I'll be back blogging soon

Christmas 2009

2009-12-27T07:46:00.009-05:00

We sure hope everyone had a fantastic wonderful and Merry Christmas!

Our Christmas celebration started on Christmas Eve

Mom and Wayne were down from the U.P. and we headed to church then to Aunt Lisa and Uncle Norm's house for dinner

It was fun to have the cousins together for a fun evening!

After dinner it was time to open one gift.. pj's of course!

Taylor liked her new pj bottoms!

Then a letter to santa and off to bed!

The next morning... wow.. Santa was here! Madison was being videotaped by Taylor and mom was taking still pictures.. so there's plenty of memories.. here's a few snapshots of the morning..

Waiting to open the big gift!

Santa was pretty sneaky inside the big box.. a little gift thatMadison really wanted- a Nintendo DS- and Santa came through.. although he was a bit hesitant about it...

For Taylor.. Granddad thought a charge card was a good idea.... so does Taylor!! She's saving it for our Europe trip!

Deborah was sure generous and Taylor loves this jacket! Im betting she wears this on the first day back to school!

This adorable purse from Aunt Kiki goes perfect with the jacket.. and Deborah bought Madison an adorable grey sweater! stylin' girls that's for sure!

to finish off Taylor's outfit.. a pair of boots from Santa!

Madison's cousin Cullen knows just what Madison likes.. a scrapbook kit so we can preserve all these memories.. Madison loves crafts!! Thanks Cullen!

Once the gift wrapping was complete... it was time to play.. oh oh... the DS needs to be charged for 3 hours... Madison decides to wait by the counter for it to charge...

After a while she gives up... and lays down to rejuvenate for the next part of the day!

Ok.. all ready for part two of Christmas! Check out this new outfit!

We had a great dinner with friends.. then it was time to play the present grab bag game.. lots of fun!

Then Madison opened gifts from Grandparents

And her cousins Kelly and Matt!

MMMM which color do you like best pink or green? good taste by both gift givers!

aunt lisa and uncle norm spoiling Madison!

Then a picture of the kids... yea, they love this part

this is what they really wanted to be doing.. texting their friends!

All in all it was a fantastic few days.. Thanks to everyone... and Merry Christmas!

Christmas Photo Event

2009-12-07T06:36:00.005-05:00

Braved freezing temps to try to get some Christmas photos of Madison yesterday.

How about a vote which of these 3 do you like the best?

Aunt Lisa was helping me .. holding the reflector.. and as she said it was like working with

a moving target the whole time.. I think you'll get a good idea of the event with these photos!

Thanks Lisa for helping out in the cold.... hope your hands have thawed!

Daisy Gal

2009-12-03T09:37:00.003-05:00

Miss Madison is now in Daisys... that's girl scouts for the younger set!

Madison and Lindsay are really enjoying it... they went to a fire station and then a retirement home.. here's a few recent photos of those events!

This is at the retirement home where the girls helped make gingerbread houses.. it was very cute!

WE THE PEOPLE

2009-11-21T09:05:00.003-05:00

Mr. O and one of his "best" students took home a trophy yesterday in the "We The People" district competition.

Mark's been teaching this class for 8 years here and 6 years in Seattle. It's a competition that judges students on their knowledge of the US Constitution. Judges and Attorneys judge the event and ask the questions!

Taylor's group sharing a laugh with the judges after they totally aced one of the follow up questions!

We're really proud of Taylor she studied hard and did a fantastic job at the event despite being in pain from her appendix surgery on Sunday.

Here's the group of Constitution Scholars! Next stop the State Competition in January!

Not to brag or anything.. ok, I'm bragging... Taylor's group got the highest score of the competiton!! They scored 226 out of 240 points!

Halloween 2009

2009-11-01T14:24:00.004-05:00

My two Mylies

She felt right at home as a "pop star"

It took a while to get used to seeing Madison with blonde hair!

The three buds getting ready to head outside

A quick performance first!

now.. backtracking to pumpkin carving.... Taylor did a great job here...

The final product...

a "Twilight" pumpkin.. (more Halloween pix on facebook)

Behind the photo shoot

2009-10-13T12:24:00.002-04:00

So I decided to take some pictures of Madison .. just because.. and she wanted to pose herself.. so I said ok..

Here's pose one..

Pose Two

Pose Three

good.. but I wanted her to stand up and I wanted a full body shot..

she didn't want to do it.. and this is what happened.

But after a little talk and a little time.. we had fun and mom ended up with the photos she wanted!

Behind the scenes.. it's a struggle .. but well worth it!

College Bound...

2009-10-10T18:15:00.002-04:00

Taylor made a dash to the mailbox today... she heard Michigan State letters of acceptance were arriving!

(I was on my way out with my camera so I couldn't resist)

Congrats to our daughter! She is now formally accepted to Michigan State University!

Now... time to fill out the paperwork.. and empty the wallets!

We are very happy for her!

Once in a Lifetime...

2009-09-14T08:26:00.005-04:00

... you get to go full speed ahead on a racetrack.

Mark and Norm enjoyed their Birthday gifts on Sunday .. driving a Nascar!

Norm looks like he belongs in this racing uniform!

So does Mark... and he has one little girl who is a big fan of her daddy!

Lining up to go.. serious race faces

There goes Norm!

Awesome.. he says!

There goes Mark!

Madison keeping a close eye on her dad!

safe and sound.... and very, very happy!

It was a great day.... .bye from the track!

School Starts

2009-09-14T08:21:00.002-04:00

Ok.. so facebook has taken over the blogging.. just want to make sure I get this on the blog so one day if and when I print the blog I will have it..

Taylor begins senior year!

while Madison begins kindergarten!

Tennis Trip

2009-08-23T08:21:00.004-04:00

Yes, the Oglesby family is still blogging!

Last weekend Taylor and Mark went to Ohio to see Taylor's favorite "hottie" tennis player!

Here he is.. Rafael Nadal -- I think it's the arms that make him #1!

Taylor is right behind Nadal.. at the fence as he warms up

Mark took this picture of Nadal signing Taylor's tennis ball!

So the trip was a big success!

more senior pix...

2009-07-23T15:12:00.002-04:00

Taylor actually said she would pose for me while I tested my white on white look.

I was shocked -- and didn't want to waste the opportunity --

cover girl!

all american girl

attitude gal

Summertime in Texas

2009-07-22T18:51:00.004-04:00

Longhorn fans be on the lookout for this girl!

She may be heading to your campus next year at this time!

The University of Texas is Taylor's first - second and third choice for college..

and now I see why after paying the longhorns a visit this past week.

Taylor met with some counselors.. and Madison went shopping!

We had a double purpose trip.. Taylor got to visit UT.. and Mark attended an AP conference in San Antonio.. here's where we stayed on the riverwalk.

If you've never been to the riverwalk.. it's worth a trip.. very well done.. beautiful walkways...

Mark's conference was great he got some information and a LOT of new Government books so he's happy. Taylor got to go to "Longhorn Saturday" and meet with two Deans in the School of Communication. Both of them were wonderful!

Madison was bored most of the trip.. so we took her on an African safari the last day! Check out this Zebra's teeth!

Madison jumped when the zebra tried to hitch a ride home with us

I decided to get in on the fun! They were very gentle when grabbing the food

And at the end Madison got to have a one-on-one with an animal just her size!

A great trip.. 102 degrees.. but still a lot of fun!

Madi and Daddy weekend

2009-07-14T11:34:00.005-04:00

Look at the excitement in Madison's face.. what's she so happy about?

She gets to spend the entire weekend with Dad!

(Taylor was at cheer camp.. Mom was at a photo workshop)

So where does dad take Madison?

The zoo where they are having a special dinosaur exhibit..

this dino was a bit scary...

A bit to frightening for Madison-- she took off running

Mark was able to get her back... and Madison wanted a picture for

Taylor.. in front of Taylor's favorite dinosaur.

(Madison also bought Taylor a stuffed dino as a gift!)

After the dinos it was on to your basic zoo animals...
but the giraffe exhibit was anything but basic..

Madison had a chance to feed the giraffe!

Up close and personal photo too!

Mark even got someone to take a photo of the two of them!

(guess I'm rubbing off on him a bit)

Next stop on the weekend with dad... A Detroit Tiger game!

Where it was kid's day and Madison got to run the bases..

do you see her in the middle of the pack?

Matching shirts.. Mark's idea!

Mark being creative with the camera

A long weekend... and Madison is out cold when I got home!

Notice her two new stuffed animals.. the pink giraffe and the dino sleeping on

their own pillow!

4th on Mackinac Island

2009-07-06T08:34:00.005-04:00

What a fantastic 4th!

We spent the weekend on Mackinac Island

as a gift from sis Lisa and uncle Norm for taking wedding pictures... unnecessary.. but what a treat!

There are NO cars allowed.

But see what brown can do for you!

Our beautiful hotel

Everywhere we walked.. brides..

and check out the guy behind the bride on the horse.. that's the photographer.

He has to follow the carriage on his bike.. can you see me doing this? funny!

Mackinac Island is beautiful!

I grew up in Michigan and have lived here as an adult for 9 years now and this is my FIRST time on Mackinac... crazy but true!

Near our hotel there was a butterfly house.. It was great you could really get up close to them

With no cars allowed .. we had to bike around.. we went around the entire island... 9 miles! Madison says she loved the bike ride.. especially since she didn't have to petal!

We also played 18 holes of miniature golf.. it was at our hotel..

Some family shots

No to cars.. but YES to dogs. Dogs were everywhere.. and it was really strange.. but the dogs did NOT bark! mmmmmm It must have been Utopia for them too!

Since we were there on the 4th of July... there were fireworks.. in fact a fantastic show on the Water!

But all too soon our weekend was over... and we had to leave.. what an awesome trip... this is my idea of a perfect weekend!

dress up part 2

2009-07-02T19:32:00.004-04:00

Dress up was so fun yesterday .. that Lindsay and Madison had to continue today.

They decided that this was their good and bad outfits.. madison was bad... hmmmm the outfit she is wearing is a nun outfit from one of Cori's previous skating shows.

There was a fight over this outfit.. the disco 70's look..

The girl's perfomed disco dances on the porch for me in these get ups

Jessie didn't want to be left out of the fun... so she came over and went wild over the tiger suit

The girls spent 3 hours changing clothes... dancing and playing pretend!

The three musketeers

do you like my hat?

I do.. I do.. I do..

Dressing up

2009-07-01T05:17:00.005-04:00

Aunt Debbie gave Madison some dress up clothes( they used to be Cori's dance show clothes)

and Madison and her friend Lindsay had a blast playing dress up!

I was just cracking up at the clothes Madison chose..

...and how she works her poses!

Notice Lindsay chose the dresses... Madison chose the others..

Our tiger!

Thanks Aunt Debbie for the fun clothes!

Balloons

2009-06-28T17:41:00.005-04:00

It's been quiet around here lately.

We went to the balloon races this weekend.. We watched as the balloons were blown up from a distance..

We never really got too close because Madison was exhausted from a day playing at a water park -- and we woke her up to come to the park-- and we paid the price--she was a tired girl who just needed to get home and go to bed!

She was a real handful in fact! goofy still.. but a bit crazy!

Lucky for Taylor.. she was busy working a booth for the school with her marketing class

I should have known she was tired.. when the finger goes in the mouth.... that's a sign to

get her home!

We ended up leaving early... and I was able to snap a few shots as we left!

Wedding continued...

2009-06-21T20:37:00.008-04:00

After going through Kelly and Matt's wedding pictures I realized there were a couple more I wanted to share..

First off.. this one of Ken.. my brother .. and also the pastor.

(He did a fantastic job by the way)

then... mom and all 5 kids.. how often does this happen?

Not enough, of course!

How about this? All the neighbors from the street I grew up on in Detroit.

This is the "Margareta" group!

We had a lot of fun growing up together and my mom and the neighbors have been great at keeping in touch all these years-- amazing really!

and... all my dad's sisters came for the big day which was great!

Aunt Bev, Aunt Mil and Aunt Sandy came from as far away as Florida for the big day.. which was really special!

Then there's Hosanna and Madison.. cousins.. they enjoyed playing with the flowers!

Which reminds me... Madison caught the bouquet

(Dad says.. "not until your 30! And he asked Madison to give the bouquet to Aunt Kiki)

Madison didn't want to part with the flowers though!

(sorry.. aunt kiki.. )

Kelly and Matt are Married!

2009-06-19T09:42:00.007-04:00

Introducing the new.. Mr and Mrs Wegescheide!

Kelly and Matt are married-- yipppeee.. the wedding was perfect.

Beautiful bride, handsome groom, blue skies and a beautiful golf course setting!

You can see more wedding pix on Kelly's blog.. so I'll post my family perspective pix here.

Madison the adorable flower girl with attitude!

Taylor the beautiful bridesmaid!

Joined by Kelly - How awesome does Kelly look!

She was glowing and looked absolutely beautiful!

Our two beautiful girls just a few minutes before the walk down the aisle.

Taylor is beautiful from head to toe.. I say that because it took about 50 shoe stores to find the perfect shoe!

Madison and cousin Cullen -- Madison is trying to keep the ring bearer from running away!

Eventually Cullen did get away and this is madison slumped shoulders walking back after the wedding.... she had no partner like the rest of the group and you can see she how she feels about that!

Being a flower girl is great... but picking real flowers is great too!

Madison forgives Cullen for running off

Aunt Kiki joined us for the big day -- and it was great to see her again even though we were all crazy busy and running around in circles the whole time she was here!

( She also did Kelly's make-up and it looked fantastic!)

After a long day.. let's get a family picture-- Great idea!

All my facebook family and friends.. more pix on facebook

Florida Trip

2009-06-11T06:31:00.014-04:00

Where to begin.. we spent the past 10 days in Florida! It was hot and sunny and a great relaxing vacation!

We started at the University of Florida where Taylor went on tour of the campus.. it was beautiful!

I think Taylor would be happy as a Florida "Gator" if it works out that way!

From the University Gators.. to the real Gators!

We made a stop at Gatorland in Orlando where Mark and Madison sat on a real one!

Then to the beach! That's our hotel behind the girls! Cousin Cori came with us to Daytona and that was an added fun bonus for all of us!

Every day we had to decide.. Beach or Pool.. that was about the hardest we worked!

Madison would have sat on the beach all day every day building castles...

One day we looked out our hotel window.. and this was flying by-- close by. The plane carrying the shuttle back home!!

The Beach was beautiful ..and it was right outside our hotel so we were a happy group!

This picture tells the real story.. Madison building castles.. see the girls back there.. with their phones.. texting friends!

No, really they didn't spend that much time on their phones.. we really just hung out and had fun!

The models!

Mark was working grading AP tests every day all day.. so when he had a quick lunch break he would drop by to play!

He loved taking the girls out in the waves..

If you're ever in Daytona.. check out this local restaurant.. it was on the water and fun!

Grammy and Grandpa Doyle were camping up the road so we got to spend time with them too!

And our favorite meal of the entire trip--- Doyle's bar=b=que steaks!

Then it was time to head to the pool

Cori and Taylor loved doing Madison tricks!

Madison is getting to be a real fish in the water!

Taylor .. the big sis.. doing what sister's do to each other!
But all too soon it was just about time to head home..

It was a great trip.. hope Mark can get another work assignment like this one!

Our Little Graduate

2009-05-29T13:28:00.004-04:00

Madison is just growing up so fast she's already a graduate!

Graduating from Preschool!

They had a little ceremony in her classroom on Wednesday.. very cute!

We also got to take a lot of papers home.. this is my favorite!

Today.. they had a picnic for the kids.. they had boune houses .. a magician.. games and food..

but Madison's favorite fun-- her friends. Jessie and Madison the neighbor gals were also at the same preschool.. but in different classes.. so it was fun for them to enjoy the picnic together!

Madison and her friend Ami pose for a final shot with their amazing teacher!

All the girls got fanny packs and sunglasses.. so I couldn't resist a couple fun photos!

Check out these preschool attitudes!

In just a few short months it's off on the big bus to Kindergarten!

Heading into Senior Year...

2009-05-25T09:05:00.002-04:00

that means.. I get to use Taylor as a model for my upcoming senior photo sessions.

She is a beautiful model .. if I may say so!

Referral Day x 4

2009-05-23T18:56:00.005-04:00

We are now celebrating four years of this beautiful baby picture! The very first picture we ever saw of Madison!

Today is the day four years ago that the call came to tell us we had a new daughter! I remember shaking when they read me her information.. then a few hours later they sent a photo.

Mark, Taylor and I all looked at it at the same time.. we were in love!

And we are still very much in love with this little bundle of energy and fun.. Miss Madison brings us so much joy! I really can't imagine our lives without her!

Now that she's 5 it's not so easy to get a photo.. she's rolling and laughing and goofing around.. but I guess that's what makes Madison .. Madison!

She has grown so much .. and it's hard to believe that 4 years have gone by...

Here's a look at referral photos of years gone by!

thanks Sandra for the great idea of photos that we have now done every year on this very special day!

Tennis Season Ends....

2009-05-21T13:31:00.006-04:00

... just as the weather begins to warm up!

Yep, the final day of tennis and picture day..

the first ( maybe second ) warm day of the season!

Taylor played some singles.. but mostly doubles with Kristen. They did a great job together and won several medals at tournaments!

I make posters for all the seniors.. I made one for Taylor .. just because... It's sad to see tennis end.. but nice to see the sun shining finally!

Oh yea, the coach and bag carrier did a fantastic job this season also!

17 years ago

2009-05-16T08:27:00.005-04:00

Taylor was born! I remember every moment of that day back in 1992 in Kirkland Washington.

Here we are now in 2009 and Taylor is turning 17! Her little sis wanted to get her a pet! Mom was mean and nixed that idea -- sorry taylor!

We had a simple birthday celebration at home .. and Taylor plans a trip to cedar point to celebrate with friends!

The Sabers (minus Kelly who was working) stopped by to celebrate

Taylor you are a beautiful daughter inside and out and we couldn't be prouder! Happy Birthday!

An Adventure in Ear piercing

2009-05-12T21:22:00.000-04:00

Taylor is smiling.. Madison is unsure.. this is how the adventure started... it was noon on Sunday afternoon.. Mother's Day actually.. Taylor has been talking Madison into getting her ears pierced.. Madison goes along.. but isn't so sure.

Taylor tries her best to calm Madison's fears but it takes so long to explain the procedure etc.. and--

Madison jumps off the chair and runs out the door here's her quote exactly

" I'm outta here, get me outta here, for Heaven's sake... I'm leaving" and she ran to the car... Madison caught her and tried to help. We took a break and went to lunch. where we called Aunt Kiki.. as soon as Aunt Kiki mentioned ear piercing Madison said

"We're not talking about that!"

Then Madison agreed to go back .. we watched another little girl get her ears pierced.. then Taylor agreed to let Madison pull her hair. We thought this was going to work. But it took too long again and she wiggled and cried big tears -- but now the earrings were open and we had to get it done or lose 50 dollars. so we called in reinforcement --

DAD drove over to the store and Madison got a big smile on her face

The smile faded when it was closer to the ear piercing time

But she hangs in there--- and finally her ears are pierced!

Dad gives her a high five.. she's not crying.. but not sure what to think...

She takes a look --

And when it's all over.. she is thrilled and telling everyone about it and showing off her earrings.. but what a day. We left the store at 4:30 --- 4 hour ordeal. We also had to buy a second set of earrings because we had too much time after they were opened.. whatever.. it's done!

Mother's Day Tea or "T"

2009-05-11T13:46:00.003-04:00

Madison had a special Mother's day Tea at preschool.

Here she chatting with a boy while waiting for all the moms to show up

They sang us 3 adorable songs.. I videotaped those.. so here's just another cute shot

She made me a cute photo frame with our picture and puzzle pieces.. it read " I love you pieces"

Then they brought us cake and punch

I asked Madison for a photo.. here's the pose I got!

All weekend she's been saying it's Mothers Day Tea today.. mothers day tea.. and next is Father's Day A. I was wondering what she was talking about.. She thought that the teacher was calling it mothers day "T"-- not tea! Thus, up next is father's day "A"-- then she says sister day and children's day!

Our Little Girl is 5 !

2009-05-09T19:33:00.012-04:00

Madison turned 5 on Friday!

The years have just flown by ... she is just a fun and amazing little girl.. who had a very busy birthday day!

birthday morning.. Madison woke up before her sister went to school.. which both of them were happy about.. so they could see each other before the end of the day.

Then Madison noticed we had decorated for her party.. she was wide eyes and excited

you can't see it all here.. but we had luau stuff everywhere..

Madison said "You did all this for me?"

After preschool Madison came home and waited for her friends. .. nothing like a little taste test to pass the time

Mom can always pass the time... with pictures!

Madison's cake

It is a Luau party... so we got all the kids dressed up as they came in

Cousin Kelly came over to help with the party.. thank you Kelly! Mom could never have done the party and taken photos without you!

We did a little limbo action

The kids were so adorable!

I just love this photo of Madison getting ready to do the limbo!

Of course, we have to have a little hula dancing.. Madison led the group in a hula dance instruction.

Then it was time to blow out the candle.. cupcakes for her daytime party.. cake at night.. a little sugar rush to keep us all going!

Kelly entertained with a silly kid song.. while I hid gifts for a scavenger hunt!

A successful Birthday Party.. but the day wasn't over yet..

Aunt Lisa, Uncle Norm and the neighbors came over for a bar-b-que.. we had a little thunderstorm to make it interesting cooking for Mark!

Madison's buddies Jessie and Lindsay helped Madison blow out her candles on the cake!

There were lots of gifts -- thank you everyone!

(I'll do a fashion show post later-- as she tries on all her amazing gifts!)

I was basically done with picture taking.. but did get this one of Madison with her ipod.. yes- she got an ipod! to keep her busy on planes and in cars for the summer vacation season!

You'd think that would have been enough.. but why not just throw in a little sleepover party with no sleep to finish off the day!

A day in the life.. of a busy preschooler

2009-05-07T08:07:00.010-04:00

Here's a glance at Madison and Mom's schedule yesterday...

the day starts at preschool!

(Madison is the one posing in the back)

Then it's a quick lunch and off to gymnastics.... how cute is this class?

Madison climbed

balanced

and jumped-- but she's not tired at all!

We stopped at a playground for a while.. then off to the next event

Taylor's tennis match!

Madison still has tons of energy and decides to practice gymnastics at the tennis courts

Still going strong.. she goofs around with the coach..

But the day's not done yet.. it's off to a soccer game.. that's madison still thinking she's in gymnastics!

Madison and her friend Lindsay are on the same team and love playing together

Madison twisted her knee.. Lindsay is asking Madison if she's feeling better..

A little love from a friend and it's back in the game..

Madison still going strong until the end of the game at 8:30 pm.. mom on the other hand is exhausted! And that's a day in the life... of a busy preschooler!

Elusive Butterflies

2009-05-06T05:59:00.004-04:00

Madison is so excited that it's spring... she wants to catch a butterfly!

so she ran back and forth across our yard and the neighbors trying to catch one

after a while .. I found her like this..

And when she lifted her head... wow.. that's a look.. what's wrong!

"I can't catch a butterfly -- they're too fast" then she groaned and did this!

then it was off to the next adventure!

Hope she has better luck next time!

Go Taylor!

2009-04-16T20:41:00.005-04:00

Taylor's tennis is back in full swing now that spring break is over. She played singles yesterday.. and did a great job.

both granddads were on hand to watch the game.. along with Madison who took the opportunity of having Granddad visit to sleep on his lap!

See the smile.. see the score.. Taylor won in three sets.. the final set 6-0!

Yea Taylor! She has a great serve by the way.

A big winning hug from Granddad

.. Great Granddad was also very proud of Taylor..

and as you can see Madison was having a hard time NOT being the center of attention so as you can see she decides to sneak into the photo.

Great Job Taylor = We are all proud of you!

Birthday to remember

2009-04-14T12:09:00.007-04:00

guess who turned this number?

Happy Birthday Uncle Norm!!

We celebrated a little early.. and Matt came home from school so the entire Saber family was on hand for the big event.

The kids put 50 candles on his cake-- it lit up the house!

He got lots of fun stuff.. including a lot of Earnhardt Jr shirts! Norm is a big NASCAR fan..

So when he opened his gift from Lisa he was thrilled!

What is in this box that can cause this reaction!

Well, it's something that made Mark " 100 percent jealous-- but in a good way"

Lisa won BIG wife kisses and hugs for the gift

In fact, it was so good that we had to surprise Mark with the same gift a month before his birthday.. after being jealous of Norm .. he too is all smiles when he sees me coming out with the same present for him

High Fives and Smiles from these racing fans

Norm and Mark will both be at the Michigan Racetrack... enjoying the "Petty" experience!

they will get to drive a nascar car for 6 laps! Both of them have wanted to do this for years and now they will get the chance and share the experience together!

Happy 5-0 to Norm --- and also happy 2-1 to Bethany.. they both share a birthday today!

Bunnies and Baseball

2009-04-12T19:29:00.015-04:00

This photo sums up our Easter Sunday this year

We enjoyed a little Easter "Bunny" and a little Easter "Tiger"

Easter weekend started with Madison making glitter eggs with Taylor

Then the bunny visited our neighborhood where the kids went on a crazy egg hunt

Showing off their bag of goodies

but you can never have too many eggs... this morning the Easter bunny visited our home and spoiled Madison. .. after she found her eggs and basket she was singing to herself "the Easter bunny bring me lots of stuff... cha..cha..cha..".. she's a silly girl

Then it was off to the Tiger part of the day a baseball game.. Detroit Tigers vs the Texas Rangers

Three generations of baseball loving Oglesby men!

For baseball fans.. there's some history at the park

For the kdis there's lots of fun stuff .. it was kid day today so Madison and Taylor got to walk around the field.. and Madison got a tiger t-shirt!

Dad and Granddad both wanted to take the walk on the field.. but big sister won this one.

Then it was free Tiger merry-go-round rides

And a fun baseball ferris wheel- as Madison was getting her ticket she said to the worker..

all proud "that's my big sister!" awwww!

Oh yea, we did watch the game too!

Tigers were down 4-0 until the 8th inning- then

A rally in the 8th.. and the Tigers win! Now they're in 1st Place!

Happy Easter to all of you!

Granddad X 2

2009-04-09T20:59:00.008-04:00

What a great week we are having... both Granddad and Great Granddad came from the West Coast to visit us!

Madison is all smiles that's for sure!

Taylor even volunteered for a photo... we are all amazed!

Great granddad came with stuffed animals... all of them make noise... thanks a lot!

He also bought Madison an adorable dress... which she is wearing right in this photo- it's adorable and she loves it!

Amazed again... Taylor volunteered for yet another photo!

Now, it's time to ask questions: Great Granddad is explaining his chewing habit...

and also took out his teeth for Madison!

Not to be outdone.. Granddad pretended to take out his eyeball for Madison.. look at her face... she's trying to figure it all out.. knows it's not right but can't figure it all out

Listening to Granddad

Just love all these expressions as they are talking!

Pure Joy having both grandads here for a visit!

GO MICHIGAN!

2009-04-05T18:39:00.004-04:00

BIG GAME and a BIG CELEBRATION here in Michigan as State is one step away from a national championship!

We were watching the game last night and Madison ran upstairs and grabbed her green pom pon she was shaking it and yelling

"Go Michigan".. jumping up and down.. then all of a sudden she was down.. Taylor and I looked.. and ...

this is what we saw.. Madison out like a light.

One second cheering the next sleeping!

She made it to the final two minutes!

(yes, that's a dog paw by her - Aussie also slept through the final seconds of the game!)

Not that surprised she crashed. She spent the day playing with Aunt Lisa and Uncle Norm!

(thanks for watching her for me! )

Tomorrow Taylor will be at Michigan State.. not for the game.. but to tour the campus for possible admission.. it should be an exciting atmosphere!

Game time - 9:21PM tomorrow.

who will fall asleep first- me or Madison? stay tuned.

Tennis Season Begins

2009-03-31T19:42:00.003-04:00

Taylor's Tennis season is underway!

She's playing doubles with Anna.. shown here..

and also singles some of the time!

How is she doing?

Glad you asked!

Taylor is undefeated in every single match!!!

(one tournament - two doubles matches and a singles match)

Maybe the sideline coach - and his mascot are helping her out!

Or maybe it's Madison yelling "Go Taylor" over and over from the sidelines!

Taylor is seriously looking great out there.

Dad.. I mean "Coach O"says Taylor is hitting hard and is playing well.. he's proud of her!

In Saturday's tournament Taylor and Anna were 3 and 0 and took home a gold medal!

So far -- so good-- now if we could get some sunshine and warm weather it will be a perfect season!

The last game Madison had to sit inside in a box to stay out of the wind!

We'll have more updates in the weeks to come!

Prehistoric Preschoolers

2009-03-25T15:36:00.007-04:00

Madison and I spent the morning with these guys

It was a preschool trip to a natural history museum

They had some outer space stuff too.. Madison's mood is so obvious.. she doesn't hide a a

thing.. here she's not happy that her friends aren't in the photo...

see the difference?

Madison keeps asking me where the dinosaurs are now.. she doesn't want to think that they are extinct.. So I told her they were all their new dinosaur home.... far, far away!

teaching the kids to take care of their teeth.. or they could end up like this!

Picture proof that I was there

Madison's preschool teachers

Striking a pose with her new dinosaur necklace!

And one final pose.. with dino

Taylor's turn

2009-03-23T06:38:00.004-04:00

How do the years fly by so fast?

Taylor is going to be a senior next year!

I wanted to test out some new equipment so she volunteered - ok, it wasn't really volunteering but she did agree!

I love this picture!

We took some more.. and she looks beautiful as always!

You wouldn't know it was so cold outside we couldn't feel our fingers and the wind made it evenworse.. Can hardly wait for springtime and a real "senior" shoot with my daughter -- that's going to to be fun!

So expect more Taylor photos in the near future!

cousins

2009-03-20T11:04:00.006-04:00

Cousin Kelly happened to stop by the other morning.... and Madison decided she wanted her hair like Kelly's hair for preschool.. So I curled Madison's hair to flip it up just like her cousin.

but here's the rest of the story.

Later that day Madison had a haircut appointment... and that was the end of the curls.. we are back to the bob!

Madison wants to grow out her hair... Mom likes it this way...for now, Mom is winning this one.

but not to be outdone.. Madison wins one battle..

the never ending photo battle.

this is the "no more pictures... I'm done" look.

Mom is trying to work on some fun , different senior photos.. but can't get my lights right with a moving target!

Springtime dressup

2009-03-18T06:47:00.005-04:00

What a GREAT springtime day yesterday!

Madison had some friends over and it was time for dress-up!

Lindsay the fairy...

Madison is so fortunate to have two girls in the neighborhood to play with.. Lindsay and Jessie. All three of them get along great-- Together!

3 is usually a tough number for kids- but not these girls!

How cute is this? Little girls in dress up playing monopoly!

I decided to try to do a scrapbook page as I take pictures so one day I can actually have a book with photos instead of just a bunch of pictures on my computer.

It's a novel idea, I think they call it a photo album... I haven't made one or seen one for a long time!

HAPPY ST PAT'S DAY and HAPPY BD NANCY PAT!

2009-03-17T18:17:00.005-04:00

The Oglesby family isn't much into St Patrick's Day.. But Missouri Matt sure is!

and now a close - up look at the Leprechaun!

Matt's spending the afternoon and evening with a bunch of crazy partiers at Buffalo Wild Wings.. he's working.. should be an experience!

and finally, on this St. Patrick's Day -- Happy Birthday Mom!!

Here's a photo from Mom's Birthday last year when "all" her children gathered to celebrate the day!!

As the Neighborhood Turns 2009

2009-03-17T10:07:00.005-04:00

The weather is finally warm.. and Madison couldn't be happier.. that means she gets to finally see the boys next door!

(she's a little shy at first... with hands behind her back)

but then she's back to being Madison... here she's asking them if they want a ride on her Barbie Jeep

She says she asked who wants to go first.... as you can see the boys are fighting for her attention

It turns out they didn't like the idea of a girl driving them around...

so they jumped on the jeep their own way

victory for Mark... He's the first to ride his way!

Not to be outdone.. Ryan jumps on.. but decides to ride his way too!

It's going to be a fun summer watching these three tango!

MiMi and Grandpa Doyle

2009-03-14T09:25:00.010-04:00

Mimi and Grandpa Doyle are on their way back home to Georgia! They are looking forward to the 70degree temps..wonder why? This was the warmest day we could give them while they were here.. about 40 degrees! Poor MiMi she was so cold the entire trip!

Even though it was cold..we had a great time while they were here..

We played Skipbo and Uno.

Sydney was helping MiMi with the game...

Madison had lots of questions for Grandpa Doyle... like who cuts your hair...

And how does your hearing aid work.. she asked lots and lots of quite impressive questions

and Grandpa Doyle answered them all patiently!

Grandpa and Madison are both proud of their cars!

Taylor was at school or tennis during most of the visit.. then she left on Friday morning for the state DECA compeition (marketing) ... so MiMi and Grandpa Doyle didn't get a lot of time with her this time around.. But the preschooler gots lots of one-on-one attention and she LOVED it!

Look who else loved the personal attention !

We look forward to seeing them again in June when we head to Daytona Beach Florida for a warmer visit and vacation!

gymnastics class

2009-03-11T16:17:00.004-04:00

Mimi got a chance to see Madison in action at gymnastics class today.

Madison was so happy to have a cheering section she gave us a couple of poses

Check out this girl's muscular legs!

Then it was off to class!

After a long day .. there's nothing better than a nap on dad's shoulder.

mimi visit

2009-03-09T19:42:00.004-04:00

Mimi and Grandpa Doyle are visiting from Georgia!

Mom and Taylor have been sick.. but luckily little Miss Madison has been just fine.. and sooo happy they are here.

It's much colder here than in Georgia so we started a fire..

(The Molly photos from "The Bachelor" party were the pefect kindling by the way!)

Then Grandpa Doyle spent an hour or so helping Madison with some hidden picture and hidden word puzzles.

It was "Hat" day at preschool. Madison made Mimi a hat.. How adorable is that hat.. it's perfect for mimi!

And as I write this blog with my stuffy head.. .. mimi and Madison are watching a video before bed.

It's great to have mimi and Grandpa Doyle here.. hopefully, Taylor and Mom get better soon!

What a disappointment-

2009-03-03T06:14:00.006-05:00

In anticipattion of "The Bachelor" finale..

We made chocolate covered strawberries... yes, some of the chocolate actually made it on the strawberries!

We made signs (so all of us could root for our favorite gal)

Taylor spent a lot of time making stawberries, decorating with roses and candles and writing up a fun Bachelor question quiz...

We invited our friends and family over

We even handed out roses... to those who got questions correct

We all held up our signs as the finale approached (Melissa.. in the majority.... almost unanimous) We were thrilled when he picked Melissa and thought she was just so adorable...

BUT - then on national televison he breaks up with Melissa and wants to date Molly blah blah blah... really. Such a disappointment we thought Jason was a good guy.

Just shows you can't trust Reality TV!

I can't believe we actually got caught up in this show.. Taylor could have been studying for her ACT's instead of writing questions.. I could have spent my Mondays with my husband watching 24.

Anyone out there also watch the bachelor.. how did you feel?

Preschool Playdate

2009-02-27T19:58:00.007-05:00

Madison is at a new preschool and has made a friend - Ami.

We had Ami over yesterday and the girls had a chance to play together for the first time outside of school.

Are they cheerleaders? princesses? angels? Your guess is as good as mine.. I'm thinking they want to be everything - and all at once!

Ami-- how adorable is she?

Madison - always a cutie pie!

Madison doesn't ever hide her emotions.. and it's clear here.

This is the face that says -- I'm done!

Is she really old enough already?

2009-02-24T16:11:00.005-05:00

Today we registered Madison for kindergarten!

She got to ride on a big school bus.. and they gave her a special stuffed dolphin as a gift!

Madison LOVED the bus ride.. says she wants to do it everyday..

I told her don't worry she'll be spending the next 12 years on the bus!

I took these pix with my phone...

but I think you can read the dolphins scarf...

Madison is the class of 2022!

2022 --- just 13 years away!

random phone photos

2009-02-20T14:58:00.003-05:00

I needed to charge my iphone and when I hooked it up to the computer.. there were lots .. and lots of pictures.. so here's some random pix of days gone by.

The first three photos are taken by miss madison without my knowledge.. she decided to take photos of her animals!

This is "UGA" the University of GA mascot

This is the famous "Remi"

And now for a group photo.. courtesy of Madison

One morning Madison said.. " I want to dress like my room"... so she did.. pink, green, purple.. and this is Madison matching her room.. well, the best we could do anyway.

This is a while back.. Madison spent about an hour getting all her animals in one bag so she could carry them downstairs..

We were at a bridal store with my friend Shawn and Madison decided to try on some flowergirl dresses.. afterall, she is going to be a flowergirl soon.. this is one of the dresses... yea, and mom got herself in this one too!

It looks like someone else is also grabbing my camera-- Matt!!!!!

"Bee" Mine..

2009-02-14T14:11:00.006-05:00

Happy Valentines Day from the Oglesby Family.

In order of appearance.. Karen, Madison, Mark and Taylor.

Ok, that has nothing to do with valentines day.. but the photo was on my camera!

Anyway, Madison handmade valentines for her preschool class- mom's brilliant idea..

this worm looking thing.. is actually a bumble bee

We made a bunch of "bees" then Madison wrote her name on the back of the hearts..

Very serious work as you can see

And here's the final product... " BEE MINE" Valentine

We made about 20 of these for her classmates at preschool

And then delivered a few more around the neighborhood...

We didn't mail any .. sorry bout that.. but we do wish all of you a Happy Heart Day!

In celebration of Valentine's day this morning.. All of went to the movies.

Taylor and Karen went to the movie

"He's not that into you"-- it was funny and pretty much true to life too.

Madison and Mark went to "Hotel for Dogs".. Madison teared up at the end.. why?

She says " It was so very, very Wonderful".. and there you have it a 5 star movie review from Madison and Me!

what not to wear- ever

2009-02-11T10:20:00.004-05:00

I recently joined facebook and have been able to catch up with some of my former co-workers at KIRO-TV in Seattle.

The c0-anchor I worked with on the morning show put this photo into an album... and I could not stop laughing... what was I thinking with that hair.. that blazer.. can't believe they didn't send me home to change.

Where was the show "What Not To Wear".. I sure could have used them!

a nice day...

2009-02-10T20:29:00.004-05:00

Amazing but true.. we've had a few warm days.. just in time for Taylor's winterfest dance (doesn't she look pretty?)

and just in time for some hanging out with mom...outside for a change!

Of course, warm is dependent on where you live.. it was a whopping 54 degrees today... we were about to break out the suntanning lotion!

It was so warm.. Madison found these fake flowers that had been buried under the snow for months! She thought they were real...

Her friend Jessie also decided to enjoy the flowers.. hey, it's going to be a while for the "real" ones to come out so you have enjoy what you have!

SUPER "O"

2009-02-04T15:32:00.005-05:00

One of Mark's "We the People" students

decided Mark is the superhero of the constitution

and made Mark his own CD cover!

Very Talented Matt Roddick!

Now we'll need Mr. O (Mark) to sing some songs for the constitution CD!

He's already got some lyrics going... "rights, rights Baby" is Mark's version of Vanilla Ice's

"Ice, Ice Baby"... "Lose yourself is based on Eminem's song...."Lose Yourself " in the musical moment.. Mark sing's lose yourself in the "Constiution"..

Guess he was singing these tunes to his students at their state competition and they decided to make him his own Album Cover.

Good thing I don't have a video camera nearby or I could record them and put them on the blog!

Preschool Pix Day

2009-02-03T09:41:00.004-05:00

Madison had picture day at preschool... so you know me.. even though we were running late I had to snap off a few shots before we left home. This first one is Madiso posing for me.. primping her hair!

I wanted to see the entire outfit.. so she sat on the step.. this is the last outfit that "fits" (small) her that we got in China. Wish I would have bought more when we were there!

... and one last pose for mom !

Finally a chance to play in the snow!

2009-02-02T16:03:00.017-05:00

Our temperatures were actually above 10 yesterday... around 30ish.. so check out this happy face.. Madison got a chance to actually play outside!

Madison and her friend Jessie went sledding in the backyard.... first they took to the hill each on their own sled... not looking good for Madison...

oops.. the snow was starting to melt so it was heavy.. this was Madison's first trip down the hill. (she thought this was pretty funny)

But it's always more fun with a friend... it worked out much better when they went down together!

After sledding..there was angel making and slides to check out...

What fun to swing.. it's been so long.. can hardly wait until spring!

but may as well enjoy the winter ... after all, the groundhog says there's 6 more weeks of winter ahead!

Snow Daze

2009-01-31T17:09:00.005-05:00

There's a lot of snow on the ground .. but it's really been much to cold to play outside.. we went out today.. for 5 mintutes.. but as you can see madison made the most of it!

It's suppose to be above freezing tomorrow... hopefully we'll be able to hit the hill and do a little sledding!

Thanks Tahlia and Jazzie--

2009-01-30T16:47:00.007-05:00

.. for the mooncake recipe!

It's a chinese cookie recipe!

now, if I could just get my mom to put down the camera and let me cook!

Madison made the cookies all by herself.. basically!

I turned to get the camera and there she was busy putting the jam in all by herself.. she is getting older isn't she?

to Madison..this is serious business... every cookie has to be perfect!

Look at what I did "all by myself" mom!

... is it more fun to eat the cookies or make them?

Welcome

2009-01-28T19:22:00.007-05:00

There's a new member of our household!

Missouri Matt (as we affectionately call him) has joined our family for

the next few months!

Taylor has a big brother...

... and Madison has someone to pick on besides Taylor!

As you can see Madison loves having him around!

She helps him play cards!

And in return she gets to share his food!

Matt will be living here until he marries Kelly in June! (oops wrote July earlier.. sorry!)

then he'll be our.. nephew in law??

Well-- as far as we're concerned.. he's already a member a family... and we're very happy to have him here!

Photography Website

2009-01-20T20:48:00.008-05:00

Well, I finally did it.. I have a website for my photography business.

It's still a work in progress -- but it's online and you can check it out at

karenophoto.com

or just look to the right and click on the link to the site!

Joni and Charlie wait till you see the first pix in my gallery!!

We The People 09'

2009-01-15T06:53:00.006-05:00

Mark's "We the People" team went to Lansing for the state competition.... and for the 4th year in a row.. came in 3rd.. behind the same two schools!

The students did an amazing job.. they only missed 1st place by 25 points out of more than a thousand points!

One group -- this one received the highest score of ALL the teams at the competition!

Great Job to all the students.. they all worked really hard ... have a trophy to prove it.. and have knowledge about the constitution that will last a lifetime.

Next year.. Taylor will be in Mark's class - that should be interesting!

Following in Kelly's footsteps--

2009-01-13T13:05:00.006-05:00

Hey Cousin Kelly look what I have.. a medal just like you!

Madison had been admiring Kelly's medals.. then a week or so later she got her own!

The first thing she said .. let's show Kelly!

Our little superstar!

Way to go Taylor!

2009-01-09T09:23:00.002-05:00

Taylor helped start a DECA group at her school.( It's a business group)

They competed in a district competition yesterday.. it's an individual competition.. not a group one. Anyway, Taylor was one of the few to advance to the state competition!

Great job Taylor! We are very proud of you!

Mirror Image

2009-01-07T09:35:00.009-05:00

Madison discovered that it's a lot of fun to get ready for bed after a bath if you have lots of mirrors at your disposal

It was another one of those "I do it myself" moments.. so mom decided the only job for her was to take some photos!

Admiring her handiwork

More admiration-- with an eye on mom

Ok, mom if you are going to take photos of me.. I'll give you a pose

Here's another!

and after a few of her own poses.. mom got the pose she wanted!

Our Little Chef

2009-01-04T09:49:00.010-05:00

Just call her chef Madison.

Aunt Lisa, Uncle Norm, Kelly and Matt gave Madison an easy bake oven and boy was she ever excited!

(I so remember having one of these and loving it too!!)

We had to get right to work making a masterpiece - yes, she is sitting on the island.. what can I say she can work better from up there.

Happy chef

She is also a serious chef.. because everything has to be just right

" I can do it myself" that's Madison's favorite line..

but Taylor made sure Madison had a little help on this one

Tah- dah.. the perfect cake!

But not quite big enough for this Birthday celebration... Happy 2-0 Matt!

(where has the time gone.. Mark and I were visiting Michigan from Reno when Matt was born 20 years ago!!! -- In fact, Mark was getting ready to start his student teaching back then.. just like Kelly is about to do!)

oops, I didn't get Madison in that first photo.. OK- one more photo

It's been a long holiday season... this is Madison at the end of the day.. trying to sleep on the coffee table

..then falling asleep at dinner!

Madison is ready to end this Christmas/New Year vacation time and get some real rest!

Happy New Year sleepover

2009-01-02T21:39:00.004-05:00

Happy New Year everyone!

In honor of 2009 .. Madison got to have a sleepover with her friends Lindsay and Jessie.. Not on the actual New Year's Day.. but tonight! You can see by that big smile on Madison's face that friends are very important to her- She just loves these girls!

The girls played nicely and took baths and just had a great time together!

When it was time to get ready for bed and brush their teeth Madison got to find out what life is like if you have other young kids in your family. Yep, she was last and not happy about her place in line.

Mark read several books to the girls and they really enjoyed that

Then it was time for lights out!

Since the sleepover is still going on.. we don't know how it will turn out.. will there be any sleeping?? Let's hope so for mom's sake...

stay tuned

Good Morning... the three goofy girls got to sleep about 10:30 after several.. well, numerous trips by us upstairs to attend to their needs... but they slept through the night-- until 7ish this morning-- pretty good I'd say.

I made them mickey mouse pancakes..and Mark surprised them with these!

Overall, it was quite a success... and it looks like there will be more sleepovers in our future!

Playing with Christmas gifts..

2008-12-28T09:07:00.016-05:00

The doctor is IN at our home... Now that Madison has a new doctor kit it seems there's a lot of sickness going around with her stuffed animals!

sometimes she gets a "real" patient... and when she does watch out she gives lots of shots

Being a doctor is a lot of work.. time for a break.. watching a new movie on her new dvd player..

Sharing is good... time for Remi to watch himself in this movie!

Madison loves puzzles..and this is a special gift from Grammy and Grandpa in Michigan.. a puzzle with a picture of Madison, grandparents and the dogs!-- very cute!

And now... the jeep battery is all charged and it's time to drive... from the den to the family room! Madison managed to make it a few feet.. but not much driving room here....

so dad took her outside for a little driver's ed class!

Good thing this jeep has 4 wheel drive there's still some snow and ice piles around.

She loves driving- like a crazy girl ... can hardly wait until she's 16!

Dad felt the need for speed and decided to race her

Then it's time to practice backing up and parking in the garage!

Madison always has a stuffed animal with her.. Daisi Lu got the honors this time around.

See you later!

Christmas in Georgia

2008-12-27T07:57:00.019-05:00

We had a southern Christmas this year!

The Oglesby family drove down to Georgia... and with the snow and wind it took 15 hours... an extra 3-4 hours.. but we made it safely!

And had a chance to spend some time with Mimi and Grandpa Doyle. Madison decided she wanted Mimi to watch "Mary Poppins" with her.. that took a couple days!

Madison and Grandpa Doyle just hanging out together
Madison loves sitting on Grandpa's lap!

We also went to downtown Athens... but it was chilly.. the cold snap didn't break until we were on our way out of town.. figures!

This is the photo work of Mark!

Taylor also got to spend some quality time with her little sister

Dad brought his school books and worked on his "We the People" class... he may be on Christmas break but he's still working

Then on Christmas Eve Madison got to spend time with her cousins...

She just loves these boys! Issac and Payton!

I think she also likes being the only girl in the group!

Issac, Payton and Madison were joined by Aidan and baby Reid to open gifts together.

Madison made sure that they all opened one at a time together! They were really cute to watch.. and it was great to spend time with everyone again.

After a long night of fun.. Madison wrote a letter to Santa and went to bed!
And here's a first..

We had to wake Madison up in the morning!

That's right all of us were up by 6am... except Madison... so Taylor got the honors of waking the little one up to see all of Santa's surprises!

Stockings are first...
Then the rest of the gifts!

A BIG Thanks to all our family who sent the girls and us amazing gifts to show their love.... We missed all of you.. but here's a few photos so you can be a part of our morning too!
All too soon it was time to leave. Mimi, Grandpa and Aunt Joyce headed off to 80 degree temperatures in Florida.. and we journeyed north to temps in the teens and back home!
Madison and mom spent a few hours of the drive playing doctor with Madison's new pet shop animal and her doctor kit from Santa.

Overall, it was another fantastic Christmas spent with family..

which is the best gift of all!

Thanks Granddad and Grandma

2008-12-26T21:26:00.009-05:00

We just returned from Georgia for Christmas..

and I'll be blogging backwards starting with the day we returned

.. because Madison came home from a wonderful Christmas to one more giant gift hiding in the garage... a big present from Granddad and Grandma Kay.

We kept Madison inside until the time was right.. then she went into the garage...

and take a look at that smile as she saw the jeep!!

She rushed over to the gift and starting kissing the box!

Then reality set in... for dad. He had to play mechanic as Madison waited patiently.

But it was taking too long so Madison decided to look things over to see if she could help...

The two of them discussed what parts needed to go where

and Madison let Dad do the work for a while...

then she decided it was time to help out

the tag team work was a success

Just look at that smile as Madison takes her friend Lindsay for a ride!

THANKS GRANDDAD AND GRANDMA... "I LOVE IT!.. IT'S JUST WHAT I ALWAYS WANTED!"

All I want for Christmas ...

2008-12-20T11:54:00.005-05:00

is whatever Santa decides to bring me!

That's Madison's advise to the guy in red this year.

She told Santa ..and I quote "you decide!"

The little princess!

(hair by Taylor)

my silly girl

2008-12-18T14:48:00.003-05:00

Madison being Madison!

Christmas Program

2008-12-17T10:00:00.008-05:00

Madison's preschool Christmas program was really cute.

Guess what song she's singing here..

right.. away in the manger..

but there's a catch -- they sang it in Spanish!!

Yes, Madison loves this dress which is why she is wearing it for every Christmas event this year.

She loves that it spins.. and loves to play with it during the performance!

She was a crack up

Here's Madison with hands on her hip ... this is her favorite way to stand these days!

At the end Madison took a bow.. the only one on stage to do so.. very adorable

One Year Ago...

2008-12-16T06:41:00.005-05:00

Memories.... Hey Saber-Shomo & Wegescheide families

just think we were calling this little boat home one year ago!

and swimming in the blue, blue waters of the Caribbean..

Also -- One Year Ago... Matt got down on one knee and popped the question to Kelly.

and now the two of them are in Europe... planning for their new lives living abroad!

... all that just one year ago!

Gotta go now.. need to layer up with scarfs, mittens, vests and fleese to survive today's expected low temperature of ZERO! brrrrrrr

If you would like to relive the warmer days of winter just click on December 2007 on the blog and we can all imagine we're back in the Caribbean!

snow time!

2008-12-13T09:18:00.004-05:00

We've had snow on the ground for some time now.. and one day Mark got home early from work and decided to take Madison outside.. she was NOT happy about the hat, coat , scarf.. etc..

but once outside.. that little smile came back!

They went down the hill a few times then decided it was too cold to stay outside much longer..and it was COLD ... notice I stayed inside and shot through the slider door...

so then we had to come up with something to do inside.... so we painted Christmas ornaments! Madison is at the age where crafts are the highlight of the day... and the messier the better!

Christmas Photos

2008-12-11T09:28:00.004-05:00

I've been busy taking family pictures for Christmas.. so I decided to quickly dress Madison and get a few shots of her while I was at it.

As you look at the three poses you can see that Madison's personality comes out more and more as the shoot continues...

Then it was time to add Grammy and Grandpa Wayne.. and the dogs jumped into the shot.. I didn't want them.. but they needed their time in the spotlight!

Bouncin' with Santa

2008-12-07T07:39:00.008-05:00

The neighborhood "3 mousketeers "

Lindsay - Madison- Jessie

took a weekend trip to Madison's gymnastic studio.

It was a special day.. because Santa showed up... A very "fit" Santa. He had to loose weight just for this event!

The group got into the spirit of the event with a loan from Santa's reindeers.

The jolly.. skinny ol' man kept showing up while the girls made the rounds

This was one of the favorite events .. jumping on the trampoline and at the end jumping in a pit of foam.. fun

Then it was time to talk with Santa... Madison just can not decide what she wants this year.. she told Santa to decide for her.. "just you pick" she says.

There's no getting anything by these three.. Madison told me

that this Santa was not the "real" Santa-- he was too skinny and his beard was not real!

oh well.. the girls had a great time.. and got in a bit of workout also!

A serious side

2008-12-05T19:31:00.002-05:00

Madison is a goofy gal.. but once in a while she decides to give us this little serious

look.

ok.. so not much is going on around here.. and unless you want photos of me working on the computer.. I thought I'd share something from the past couple of days!

Making New Friends

2008-12-02T18:40:00.004-05:00

Ok.. here's a strange story.

I took Madison to the allergy doctor because she's had hives for 3 months now.. anyway..that's not the story.. We're at this tiny doctor's office and..

as we're leaving we see another little girl from China.. wow... love that --so I start talking to her mom -- who is also a photographer- starting out.

Then as we're talking-- in walks a THIRD little girl from China!!

Really true story!

I pulled out that wonderful camera phone and this is the best I could do..

Here is Claira ( 4yrs old) Madison( you know her! ) and Maya ( 3 yrs old) .. too funny.

We're going to do a play date next week!!!

Thanks for the memories

2008-11-28T07:39:00.006-05:00

Thanksgiving is over.. and we're all wiped out over here!

Here's a quick look at the day..

A few games of pool while waiting for the cooks to complete their masterpieces

And a little competition ping-pong

complete with a sideline cheerleader!

Then a couple silly pictures while waiting for everyone to arrive

Kelly and Matt decided to practice dancing for their upcoming wedding

.. still waiting for dinner .. so more games

Finally, food. Remember the "kid" table.. well this crew decided to pile around one card table downstairs --

Mark had to drown his sorrows over the "Lions" game.. and that disaster..

So he broke his diet.. and ate just a "little" fluffy jello-- pie-- ice cream etc..

Matt is home from college and teaching Madison what he's learning there...

(Norm and Lisa you may want to get your money back! )

"Smile" mom and wayne.. it's camera time!

Yes, the paparazzi was out in full force last night

We also talked on the phone to relatives who were far away

And played a game of "24 words or less" to wear off some of those calories!

One final pose... the 2008 Thanksgiving group! The Cave, Saber, Phalin and Oglesby families.

then up the next morning for shopping 4:30 am for matt & taylor...

and for Grammy, Wayne and Karen it was off to Ford Field to watch Luke in the state championship football game.

Here's Luke running on the field! (numbr 89)

Here's Luke playing - this is his team's fourth year in the state finals!

If you didn't spot him.. here he is!! (Karen didn't bring her telephoto lens.. so this will have to do for today)

Joni took the "fan" bus down to watch Luke play... Jim met us at the game and we had a great time seeing each other again.. Oh, I didn't mention the game final.. yea, that's on purpose!

Hey... they are a great team.. it's just that they had some brutal competition this year.

Happy Thanksgiving.. a great time with family and friends!

Dog Party

2008-11-23T07:03:00.012-05:00

Madison's "BFF" Lindsay is turning 5.. 5 years old.. wow!

Anyway, she had a dog party... I will explain--

The girls go a dog store.. It's like build a bear.. but more like "build a dog"

.. or a leopard.. Lindsay built "Isabella".. Madison built "Roseabella" (don't know how or where she got that name.. but that's the name!)

I said hey let me take a picture of you two with your new animals..

.. Then I decided I needed a closer look at those girls' poses!

Here's Lindsay...

.. and Madison

Yep, no doubt about it, this girl has some serious attitude!

The posing..unprompted by the way.. continued during gift opening...

Then it was time for the highlight of the party... this is not a stuffed animal.. but a real dog.. the girls got to play with puppies for about a half hour... they loved it and for the store owners not a bad way to sell dogs.. how can you resist these little faces?

we did resist-- and Madison brought Roseabella home.

She had put a cheerleader outfit on the dog.. and she promptly gave the dog to Taylor as a gift... She said she did it because she loves Taylor-- she hasn't asked for Roseabella back yet!

Madison did dog-sit for Taylor

and told me she was going to do a good job

because she didn't want Taylor to be disappointed in her!