Welcome to Turley Town!!

Thankful

2011-11-21T15:23:00.001-05:00

During morning meeting, Ms. Jenna and Ms. Kayla asked the kids what they're thankful for...

“Mommy, Daddy, Honey, WaWa, and Pippy."

Bacon!

2011-11-21T15:22:00.001-05:00

Students asked what kind of meat was in our casserole. When Ms. Jenna responded, “It’s chicken!”

Danny replied, “Chicken comes from chicken.”

Ms. Jenna asked friends, “Where does steak come from?” but after no one replied, she gave a hint, “It says Mooo.”

Rayne said, “A cow!”

Then Ms. Jenna asked, “Where does bacon come from?”

Sammy quickly replied, “A pig!”

Now how does he know that?

"Camping" at Hanging Rock

2011-11-14T21:53:00.003-05:00

We "camped" this weekend with our tailgating friends. It wasn't exactly camping since we stayed in cabins with heat and kitchens, but somehow "cabining" doesn't have quite the same ring as "camping." Here are a few of the pictures I managed to take.

Halloween

2011-11-07T22:24:00.003-05:00

Getting readyby practicing some sneaky SpiderMan moves.

One picture with Mommy before we go.

Check out these muscles!

How do you get 4 kids to all look at the camera? Probably not going to happen.
We've been ready for Halloween since the first week of October when the SpiderMan costume arrived. Sam has worn it nearly every day since then. We did 4 houses on one culdesac, and then Sam was ready to be done, check out his loot, and "trick-or-treat the kids." I convinced him to do the other culdesac wtih the rest of our group, but after those 5 houses, he was really finished. All in all, a pretty successful night.

And just so I don't forget (I don't think I will though - at least not any time soon)...Halloween is also a big deadline at work. Most of us worked through the weekend (with Lucy for company on Sunday) and then headed out early to do Halloween at home on Monday, and then came back in to the office after trick-or-treating to wrap everything up (with Desi for company). Miraculously we finished, but I think we've all decided that we'll just move the deadline up to October 30. Squeezing in Halloween with our kids with that kind of deadline looming isn't much fun.

Surgery Fall Picnic

2011-11-07T22:18:00.003-05:00

The surgery department hosts a fall picnic each year - yummy food, fun music, and FACEPAINTING! Who can resist? Not this tiger!(We're enjoying this 3rd/extra year of research with Ryan at home so we get to do fun family things like this without worrying about rounding and pagers.)

What's in a Name?

2011-11-02T06:29:00.002-05:00

From today's daily:
Friends were discussing their names. Selena said, “my second name is Xxxxx.” Sammy said, “I have 3 names, Sammy McKee Turley.” Danny said, “I only have 2 names, Danny Xxxxx.” Rayne asked, “What is my second name?” Selena said, “Rayne Xxxxx!”

We've been working on this lately since Sam was convinced that his name was Sammy Turley McKee. That drove Ryan CRAZY! But it appears that he's finally got it right.

Let the football begin!

2011-09-03T20:28:00.001-05:00

Best tailgate buds (Lucy, Jackon, Katie, Sammy, and Pippy)

Art Smart

2011-06-28T18:26:00.001-05:00

This morning, Ms. Tanya led the group as they examined examples of VanGogh’s still life paintings. After examining examples of still life paintings by Van Gogh, students gathered in the outside classroom to create their own watercolor paintings. Provocations of a basket of fruit as well as a vase of flowers were placed in the middle of the table for the students to base their paintings on. Many students painted the fruit or flowers while others painted volcanoes, people, and birds.

Sammy says his picture below is of an airplane.

Chief's Dinner 2011

2011-06-17T21:12:00.000-05:00

To celebrate the completion of their residencies, the Surgery Department hosts a black tie dinner each year to honor the graduating chiefs. Some day (specifically, June 2015), it'll be Ryan's turn. But for now, it's at least a fun excuse to buy a new dress.

With the Drs. Talbot.

Top left Ryan with Jen and Keri (both residents in his class); Brian, graduating chief, and his lovely wife Amy - we'll miss having them and their kids as neighbors; Ryan with Brian and Michael; Jack, Melissa, and some guy whose name I can't remember; us hanging out afterwards; Jennifer and Tobias.

Race for the Cure

2011-06-11T20:56:00.000-05:00

A bunch of us from my office participated in Race for the Cure.

Steven, the amazing guy who puts up with me in part because I think his two older sisters trained him really well and in part because he's just a great guy.

Courtney with Penny

Me with Amalia and Courtney

ICF Goes to the Bulls' Game

2011-06-04T20:39:00.000-05:00

We go to the Bulls' game every year - and it's either scorching hot or raining or both. This year, it was HOT! But still pretty fun!

The lovely Michelle, with Tom, Grace, and Ava. Michelle is the other half of my brain for so much stuff.

Who is giving these kids sugar? Sammy with Katie and Ben.

No more sugar, Sammy! Doesn't it just look like the joke is on Mr. Dave?

A Little LocoPops Love

2011-05-27T20:52:00.000-05:00

Half Marathon

2011-04-30T21:16:00.000-05:00

I have no pictures to prove it (really, buy a $30 photo of sweaty me crossing the finish line? No thanks!)...

But I did it! My first one. The farthest I've ever run. Not quite the finish I was hoping for, but I was pleased and have left myself some room for improvement. Kerry, Megan, and I ran the half marathon in Nashville. And I'm hooked on running and training. I loved running before, but training for a goal was even better! I'm ready for the next one.

13.2 miles in 1:52:54
8:37 minute pace

Now for the crazy part (crazy because there were SO many people) - I finished:
2171 out of 22015 runners (in the half!)
150 out of 2458 women between 30 and 34
668 out of 14009 women

And so I'll always have it:
5 km time: 24:52 (8 minute miles
10 km time: 50:28 (8:07 min miles)
10 mile time: 1:23:43 (8:22 min miles)

Bike Path

2011-04-21T14:23:00.000-05:00

Mr. Sun

2011-04-10T20:32:00.001-05:00

This morning we sang “Mr. Sun” recognized today’s date. Sammy helped with this morning’s weather chart. Ms. Jenna helped him write his “8” for today. He also requested her help to draw the circle for his sun. After that, he proudly added lines to the circle to indicate that it is a sun.

Sometimes...

2011-04-05T16:38:00.001-05:00

Sam to Mommy:
"Sometimes I call you baby."

Our Date

2011-04-05T16:36:00.001-05:00

Sam and I had breakfast after church Sunday morning and then went to run errands - Costco, Home Depot, the grocery store. Checking out at Home Depot, he told the cashier, "Me and Mommy are on a date."

Spotted Mommy

2011-03-20T21:57:00.000-05:00

Sunday morning, Sam was sitting on top of me, trying to wake me up.

"Mommy, why do you have those spots on you?"

Freckles, Sammy; they're freckles.

First Soccer Practice with Coach Sergio

2011-03-19T21:41:00.000-05:00

Making music

2011-03-09T21:06:00.001-05:00

Sammy and his friends make music at school. He's playing the "drum that turns into a 'raca."

Burlington Carousel

2011-03-05T21:09:00.000-05:00

Laughing with Angela

All of us on the train - Uncle Bob, Honey and Sam, WaWa, Angela and Donald

Driving the fire truck...

...and the boat...

...AND the helicopter - Sammy was in heaven!

Honey, Uncle Bob, and WaWa

All of us together (well, Mommy has to take the pictures).

Mommy and WaWa on the carousel

Mommy rode a reindeer!

But Sammy and Honey rode in the carriage. Someone looks sleepy.

So much fun!

Oh yes - what is wrong with this picture?!?

Sammy and One of His Best Buds

2011-03-01T20:32:00.000-05:00

Sammy and Jeff-er-ry (gotta say it with 3 syllables every time!) with their kaleidescope eyes. Sam, Jeffrey, Nicki, and Danny are inseperable at school. It is adorable to watch the 4 of them play together.

Post-Super Bowl Fun at School

2011-02-07T13:14:00.000-05:00

Some students had football fever after all of the talk about the Superbowl this weekend! Logan and Sammy play their own game of football in the ball field.

Cooking at School

2011-01-25T15:19:00.002-05:00

From today's daily email:Many interested students helped Ms. Jenna by adding the ingredients to our ambrosia salad. We added: celery, apples, grapes, and raisins to a special whipped cream that Mr. Jorge so kindly whipped up for us. After students added the chopped up ingredients, they took turns stirring into the “white stuff.” While some students helped Ms. Jenna, other students enjoyed spending their time in our new restaurant and grocery store.

Christmas Snow

2011-01-24T22:33:00.000-05:00

Santa brought snow on Christmas Day night. We had a great time with our neighborhood friends.

Audrey and Colby finishing the snow man.

Sam using his dump truck to scoop the snow.

The Ballard Court snow man.

Christmas Morning

2011-01-24T22:25:00.000-05:00

Santa brought exactly what Sam wanted - big trucks! He brought a big boy bicycle too, but that hasn't been as big a hit as the big trucks. Sam's friends Ben, Katie and Jackson gave him a rocket ship and big truck on Christmas Eve - he took those to be with him:

The best part of Christmas was having Mimi here to celebrate with us! We're so glad that she got to wake up with us Christmas morning and be here while Sam opened presents.

The first and last ride in the house:

The Cookie Shop at School

2011-01-19T14:49:00.001-05:00

A large portion of the class decided to open a cookie shop! They carefully selected the perfect mud for their chocolate chip cookies. Danny and Sammy (on the right) celebrate the opening of the cookie shop!

Building at School

2011-01-12T13:41:00.001-05:00

Since it was still quite cold outside this morning, we decided to stay inside to examine different types of tools together instead. After examining different tools some students decided to build different things. After being questioned on his creation, Sammy explained, “This is a football player’s house! Mine is steady; it can’t fall! It’s big and strong for people!” Tyler chose to create a “dog house.”

Tucker and Whitney in Durham

2010-11-25T18:22:00.003-05:00

Tucker, Whitney, Julie, and Chris came to visit us in Durham on their way to their new home in Iowa. We had a great time catching up, and the boys had so much fun playing tackle baseball.

We miss you guys!

More fun with Mimi and Coach

2010-11-25T17:39:00.005-05:00

July was Coach's first ever trip to North Carolina! He was like a teenager enjoying his spring break the entire week he was here, and we all had a great time. Sam stayed home from school with Mimi and Coach, and for two of those days, Sam, Mimi, Coach, and Ryan went to Wilmington to go to the beach (really, just like spring break!). Mommy stayed home with the dogs (sadly, working, but that's been the story of my life since July). Sam LOVED the beach - of course!

Doesn't Mimi look AMAZING?!?! Last August (so 2009), she had gastric bypass surgery. In the year since then, she's lost more than 150 pounds. She had so much energy and had no trouble keeping up with Sam while she was here. We are so proud of you, Mimi, and we were so thankful for you to come take care of us for a week!

Happy 3rd Birthday, Sam!

2010-11-25T17:00:00.005-05:00

Sammy had a fish party at our house for his 3rd birthday. Mimi and Coach were here from Texas to celebrate with us, and several friends from Sam's class at Aldersgate. .

Here's Ellie:

Connor and Manix:
Sam and Ellie swimming:
Even A-O and baby Jude stopped by:
Sharing snacks with Wawa:
Happy birthday, Sammy!
Everybody blew out a birthday candle:

And Elijah:
I can't believe we have a 3 year old!

Subway Train

2010-11-04T12:47:00.000-05:00

From Sam's school daily email:
Today Sammy shared, “One time I went on a subway train and it was really fast. It had poles on it.” When asked what the poles were for, Sammy replied, “To hold on so I don’t fall down.” Other students went on to share some of their travel experiences.

Duke Football

2010-10-10T21:25:00.000-05:00

Uncle Scott and John came with us to the first game.

Judson and Margaret joined us for the Alabama game.

Waiting in the 95 degree sun for the Alabama game to start.

Still waiting.

July 4th in Delaware

2010-09-27T22:38:00.001-05:00

Ready for Splash Day!

2010-09-27T22:12:00.000-05:00

Preschool Splash Day

2010-08-07T13:06:00.002-05:00

Judging from the smile on his face, I would say Sammy is loving preschool.

We're still here - incredibly busy at work, having computer issues, and overall just trying to keep my head above water. What would I do if Ryan was working his 80 hours a week? Further proof that God won't give us more than we can handle.

June 11

2010-06-11T13:50:00.003-05:00

This morning Sammy went on a Bear Hunt with Ms. Jen during morning carpet time. Sammy went through all sorts of adventures to escape the bear, finally ending with lying on the floor, which he pretended was his bed. He also pretended to put covers over him to keep safe. During outside free choice Sammy played alongside Danny for most of the time. They went down slides together, and they made pit stops at certain areas of the playground together to explore a structure, the dirt, or other children playing.

This morning Yusuf, Sammy, Danny, and Marshall made up Ms. Kalina’s small group. All boys!Before getting into our small group activity, Ms. Kalina asked “What are some animals you know that live in the sea?” Yusuf said, “I dunno. A boat.” Marshall said, “Froggy”, while Sammy added, “Elephants live in the oceans”. Later Sammy added, “Fishies”. Danny concluded the conversation with “Umm. Lion. And Dogs”. I brought out some of out sea animal photographs, and it sparked their memory some. The children recalled manatees, seahorses, whales, sharks, and fish after a few tries using them as flash cards. In the Art Center Ms. Kalina’s group worked on mixing blue paint and sand to create their own ocean. Finally at the computer, we looked at short videos of scuba divers observing undersea creatures including sea turtles and jelly fish!

Washington, DC

2010-05-31T20:22:00.004-05:00

We drove up to DC to see Uncle Scott. He took us to the Museum of Natural History on Saturday:

Mommy found a new friend.

Pippy posing in front of the capitol.

On Sunday, Sam took some lessons on getting ready from Uncle Scott.

After brunch, we hung out in Dupont Circle.

Walking back to Uncle Scott's apartment.

Sam's favorite part of the entire trip: the TRAIN!!!

Strawberry Patch

2010-05-31T20:18:00.000-05:00

Sam and I went to the Strawberry Patch with our Aldersgate friends. We had a great time...

All boys. Ms. Kim and Ms. Leigh Anne are some kind of amazing to have nurtured and corralled these wild boys all year. They did have 2 girls in their class, but the girls didn't come strawberry picking.

Mostly, Sammy just ate the berries as fast as I picked them.

And after picking, a great game of chase around the tree.

DWTS

2010-05-13T20:59:00.000-05:00

"Mommy, we eat po-corn, watch dancers dance."

The Races

2010-05-05T22:32:00.000-05:00

We took Sam to the Orange County Speedway to watch the races a few weekends ago. He LOVED it!

One of the ladies Ryan works with has a son who races, so we got to sit with their family and watch her son race.

Ryan and I both loved NASCAR when we went 4 years ago - was it really that long ago? But OCS is much closer, much cheaper, and just as much fun with a two year old in tow.

Sammy and his WaWa. Ryan asked him the other day, "Sam, who is your best friend?" Without missing a beat, Sam responded, "WaWa. He's my granpa."

A little more Easter egg hunting

2010-04-19T20:52:00.000-05:00

From our neighborhood Easter egg hunt...

Sam and one of his favorite girls, Grace

Posing

Sam meets Mason Plumlee

2010-04-17T21:37:00.000-05:00

Sam got to meet Mason Plumlee, one of the Duke basketball stars at the Great Strides Walk for Cystic Fibrosis. Sam doesn't seem to be too interested in the basketball player as much as he is in playing basketball at the goals behind them.

Sam meets Jude Karlsson

2010-04-16T21:44:00.001-05:00

Sweet baby Jude is here! We are so excited for Chris and Ariel.

Can you tell just how excited? "Sam smile with baby Jude."

"No, smile, Sam."

Planting Seeds at School

2010-04-14T21:18:00.000-05:00

Even Pip gets to help.

Hey, Mr. Chip Man!

2010-04-06T21:57:00.003-05:00

Driving home yesterday, Sam saw the Lay's potato chip truck making a delivery at the convenience store near our house.

"I want that chip truck come my house bring me some chips!"

Poor kid was already upset because he only had 3 peanut butter crackers as a snack while we were driving home, and then there was this exchange:

"I want Easter Bunny. Where is Easter Bunny? Easter Bunny come my
house bring me present."
"No, the Easter Bunny only comes one day. You can play with what he
brought you when we get home."

"I WAAAANNNTTT EEAASSSSSTER BUNNNNY!"

So the morale of the story...bring an unlimited supply of peanut butter crackers for the drive home! Not sure what to do about the Easter Bunny though. I've had all the plastic eggs I can stand for one year.

More of Uncle Scott's Visit

2010-04-06T21:57:00.000-05:00

Everything is better with a straw!

Sam is cracking us all up...in so many of the pictures I tried to take of all of us, Mommy had her eyes closed. Sam thought it was just SO hilarious, and he started squeezing his eyes shut to be just like Honey.

At least we're all looking at the camera!

Sammy and Unc Scott.

Who can resist?

2010-03-28T08:50:00.002-05:00

Another 30 year old!

2010-03-27T20:07:00.000-05:00

We helped Chris Merritt ring in his 30th. Scott and Jon were in town to celebrate too. AND it was the St. Patrick's Day Fundraiser for Cystic Fibrosis at Bull McCabe's in Durham. Busy night

Hope we didn't scare you off, Jon. You're welcome back anytime!

So Big!

2010-03-27T20:02:00.000-05:00

Weekend Naptime

2010-03-27T19:58:00.000-05:00

Sam refuses to nap on weekends (and during the week at WaWa's house)...unless we strap him into the jogging stroller at about 2:30 and run until he falls asleep. Today it didn't happen until minute 28. Maybe Mommy should train for a half marathon?!?!

Celebrations

2010-03-20T11:54:00.002-05:00

The lovely dark-haired beauties...
How did these 4 crazy surgery residents manage to score such amazing wives?
The self-proclaimed 4 horsemen:

We celebrated Judson's 30th birthday AND Drew and Allison's engagement. Margaret wrote a poem that she sent out to us practically immediately after Drew proposed. The other 6 of us had been waiting so impatietly for him to finally pop the question!

After rehearsing with Simon, Barbas spoke to Dad
And Dad said "Ok son, you're not so bad"
Then Barbas popped the question this very night
But would Pinkle agree, without any fight?
She jumped with joy and said "Sure thing!"
Now Pinkle is wearing a brand new ring!
So to Pop's we'll go when the week ends
To toast and cheer our happy friends!

30 year old number 3...(Dave and I are leading the way for everyone else.)

The happy couple!

Valentine's Day - Part 2

2010-03-20T11:32:00.001-05:00

"Hello, Wucy. You hammer Mommy (new) couch with me?"

Lucy said no, so Sam had to take on the hammering and the digging by himself.

Taking "Balentines" to "my friends." "They gone be so happy get my Balentines." Yes, Sammy, you're friends are going to love your Valentines!

Another picture? Really, Mommy?

Valentine's Day - Part 1

2010-03-09T23:15:00.000-05:00

Making cards, of course!

March 1 - 5

2010-03-06T20:44:00.000-05:00

Monday: I hope morning drop off is going to get easier soon...
Wednesday: This morning Sammy and his friends observed the playground by the large windows. Sammy said, “Wet. Puddles”. On the sidewalks there were puddles, but it wasn’t raining, so Sammy could choose to play in the train or in the sandbox. Sammy first went to the sandbox where he dug into the sand and filled up a dump truck. Sammy commented on his friends by saying, “They doing something”. He also said to them, “Look at my hole guys” very proudly.

Friday: Today the children immediately noticed a wagon mixed among the center scooters and bikes. Sammy was sooo excited about the wagon! Sammy pulled, pushed, and rode inside the wagon. When he walked away for a few moments, he noticed a group going to the opposite side of the playground. He commented, “Too far away guys” and “They way over there”. This week I’ve noticed him reaching out more to playing with the other children, smiling more, and becoming more comfortable. Today was an excellent day for Sammy, and I’m so happy for his progress.

This morning Ms. Kalina asked everyone, “How does sharing make you feel?” Laurel said, “Share”. Emily said, “Happy”. Marshall then added, “Marshall Dee happy.” Yusuf said, “Yeah” when asked if it makes him happy, and Sammy concluded the conversation with “I share Mommy Daddy”. At the Art Center Sammy squished and explored the properties of some green floam we borrowed from P-1. It looks like teeny tiny balls that are stuck together. Sammy said, “Make boat”. Again we practiced sharing by trading and passing around the modeling tools. The group has been working a lot on using their manners with “please” and “thank you” as well.

February 22 - 26

2010-02-26T19:42:00.000-05:00

Monday: This morning, Ms. Sade led our morning large group carpet time. She read the book, “Scratches and Scrapes”. This helped introduce our topic of “boo boos” and going to the doctor. In our small groups, Sammy peeled off a large band-aid and practiced putting it on his body and then a baby doll. It was a great chance to count and learn about different body parts too! Sammy really liked this activity! We also discussed some about his daddy being a doctor and how they help people.

Note from Ms. Kalina:
Audrey & Ryan,
I want you to know that Sammy is doing fine, and I know transitions can take time, but that's what we are here for :). He calmed down pretty quickly this morning, and he's already doing a little bit better than last week. Currently he's zoning out on his cot, so I think he may fall asleep soon. If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to ask. I want you know that he's taken care of and loved, and we are doing what we can to make help him feel comfortable. Have a great rest of the day!
Kalina

Wednesday: This morning the children sang along to “We All Sing with the Same Voice”. We also went outside to the covered picnic table area. Sammy, Yusuf, Laurel, and Marshall did laps around the picnic table. We also did some stomping, skipping, and patting of the knees. Sammy chose to sit on the bench and flip through books, as well as push wooden trucks around. At one point I asked the children to be really quiet and listen on the roof. The children could hear the pitter patter of the rain. Sammy repeated the words back “pitter patter” and laughed at the sound of the words. I think today was one of Sammy’s best days in a few weeks. He seemed comforted in playing with his toy police car this morning. I let him bring it outside too, which he enjoyed as well.
Today Ms. Kalina started discussion about our topic by asking, “What do you do when you get a boo boo?” Sammy replied, “Go to doctor”. Since the children had so much fun playing doctor with the babies yesterday, we decided to do it again today.

Friday: Sammy had an even better day than Wednesday. This morning I got some shiny crinkly paper from inside the closet. Sammy really liked playing with it first thing this morning. It helped his morning transition. Also to ease the transition from lunch to nap, Ms. Jessica asked Sammy to help some with the cleaning up. He didn’t get upset at all at nap today, and he makes sure to tell me where to put his cot. He got his Pip, car, books, and blanket ready at his spot before I got there with the cot.

February 15 - 19

2010-02-19T20:29:00.000-05:00

Monday: Sammy was very interested in the magnets today that were set up in the Science Center. I showed him a board where he could experiment with sticking it to metal objects. Also in the classroom, we went on a hunt for things the magnet could stick to. There are beams by the door of the classroom that the magnets can stick to.

Wednesday: When we were outside this morning, it was a great chance to talk about the weather. Ms. Kalina gave Sammy a clipboard, paper, and crayons, so he could choose to draw if he wanted. I asked Sammy to look up at the sky, and he used a few different crayons to draw what he saw in the sky. I asked what he drew, and he said, “Sunshine”. Sammy also explored the different street signs. He carried three signs and placed them side by side in a row. Sammy then went to the train with the whole group. It’s fun to watch how the children like to stick together when they are playing. They tend to move in a pack together as they move on to different interests and activities through out the day.

Note from Ms. Kalina: Ryan & Audrey, Sammy had a little bit of a rough day, but just for short moments. He has had the hardest time going to sleep, and he was crying some. Right now he's on his cot, quiet, and happy, but not napping. I think maybe it's sunk in this week that he's here permanently. I'm sure with some time he'll continue to feel more comfortable. Have a great rest of the day! Kalina

Friday: Sammy also asked to play on the train. He and Marshall took turns steering the train.

Note from Ms. Kalina: Audrey, Nope he didn't take a nap. He's been quiet, and he did rest. I think it could have to do with him adjusting this week. He's been a little more anxious during transitions during the day. Like when Ms. Jessica came in with her group, I explained to him that we are joining all together for carpet time. Also when the music came on for nap it startled him some. I've been trying to warn him and tell him ahead of time what we are doing, so the schedule and changes don't bother him too much. It's normal for him to still be going through adjustments. We will do all we can to make him happy and feel at home, but it does take a little time. He's a sweet boy, and overall he's been having a lot of fun, so don't worry :). Kalina

Too cute to forget

2010-02-18T22:36:00.007-05:00

After dinner:
"Mommy, I finish my dinn-r now. I get my n-r-g back."

When I picked him up from school:
"Mommy. My Mommy. You here. I have so much fun at my new school."

Any time, often:
"Pippy gon be so happy I ______."
"You gon be so sad I _____."
"I nev-r, nev-r, nev-r, nev-r _____."

"Guys. Listen to me, guys."

"Leave me lone. I still dreaming."

The difference between Mommy and Daddy

2010-02-17T21:21:00.004-05:00

Mommy makes robots like this:

But Daddy makes robots like this:

Snow Days

2010-02-17T20:57:00.003-05:00

Sam certainly had fun! He went dog sledding:

Had a snowman built by Honey:
Refereed some dog wrestling:
And overall just LOVED it!

First Day at New School

2010-02-08T21:30:00.003-05:00

Ms. Kalina, Sam and Lucas playing trucks, Mr. Brandon, Sam washing dishes

Whew! After hearing "I never, never, never, never, never go my new school" and then "Mommy, you don't go nnn-e-wre," I must admit, I was pretty worried. But when I got there to pick him up today, Sam was having so much fun with Ms. Kalina and his new friend Lucas, that I had to bribe him away from the sand table with the promise of a car wash. He told me in the car on the way home, "Mommy, my new school so much fun." Yay!!!

It will be so great to have Sam close to my office and in full time care. We have loved our preschool experience, but getting to work at 10, asking my dad to spend SO many days, all day long with an often-onery 2 year old was wearing on all of us. Sam didn't take a nap any afternoon last week for WaWa...He took a nap today at his new school and was a joy, instead of a jerk, to be with tonight.

Until we get a full-time spot, Sam will go to his new school on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and to his other school on Tuesdays and Thursdays, hanging out with WaWa (or Ms. Gretchen sometimes) after that.

Our day care search is finally over, and after day 1, we couldn't be happier!

February 8 - 12

2010-02-08T19:46:00.000-05:00

Monday: This morning Ms. Kalina read a new book on tape called, “Five Little Penguins Slipping on the Ice”. This was a great way to introduce what we will be learning for the whole week. After reading the book, we talked about winter, the cold, and what we where when it’s cold. Also Sammy seemed very comfortable with the routine and the other children. I could tell he was starting to form attachments with other children, especially when I saw him holding hands with Yusuf while walking down the hall.

Wednesday: Day 2 - hopefully morning drop offs will get better than this!!!

Friday: Outside today, Sammy went straight to the train. He loves to turn the steering wheel around and around on the train. I think he was there almost the entire outside time!

Sam and Desi

2010-02-05T07:21:00.000-05:00

I'm not sure quite why he's giving me the stink eye, but Sam was having a great time reading Each Peach, Pear, Plum to Desi. Looks like Desi enjoyed it too!

A Happy Sunday Morning

2010-02-05T07:19:00.000-05:00

Coach would be proud!

Brazilian Visitors

2010-01-30T20:35:00.002-05:00

The only decent pictures I got of Tucker and Sam...breakfast milk time.

Ryan and Chris (the older brother he never had). Ryan and Sam played doctor to Chris' foot while the girls shook their heads in disbelief.

"This won't hurt a bit."

"Let me just get my assistant."

Oh, Whitney - we're so glad to have you here to help us balance out their craziness!

Hello, Ben

2009-12-31T15:00:00.000-05:00

Sam called his friend Ben recently..."Hello, Ben. What doing? It Sammy."

Christmas Day

2009-12-25T21:03:00.000-05:00

Our tree...Sam requested several times that we get a star for the top (I guess he learned that in school), but I love our angel. I explained to him that "Ma" (his name for Grandma) made the angel and that now she's our angel watching over us. I'm so glad that she could watch Sammy enjoy Christmas from her front row seat in Heaven.
Digging treasures out of the stocking he picked out. Percy!!! And a bone for Pip!

When I asked Sam what he wanted for Christmas he told me, "I want can-y cane. Pippy need bone." So Pippy got his bone. Poor Pip - he's well loved.
A drill of his very own! Santa did well with this one.
And this one too...Sam saw Ryan wrapping "Cranky Crane" one night when he was refusing to stay in his bed and Mommy left guard duty for a few minutes. The next morning I caught him scoping out the presents under the tree, and when I asked him what he was doing, he told me, "I need a crane."

And then our camera met it's untimely death on Christmas morning before we'd even finished opening gifts.

Christmas Eve

2009-12-24T21:01:00.000-05:00

"His eyes-how they twinkled! his dimples how merry!
His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry!"

"Jingle bells. Jingle bells. Jingle all the way.
Oh what fun it is to ride in a one horse open sleigh! Hey!"

"He sees you when you're sleeping; he knows when you're awake.
He knows when you've been bad or good, so be good for goodness sake!"

"I saw Mommy kissing Santa Claus
Underneath the mistletoe last night."

"Christmas Eve will find me
Where the love-light gleams.
I'll be home for Christmas
If only in my dreams."

"Angels we have heard on high,
Singing sweetly through the night,
And the mountains in reply
Echoing their brave delight."

"Who laughs this way: HO HO HO?
Santa laughs this way: HO HO HO!"

"Over the river and through the woods
To Aunt Ana's house we go.
The horse knows the way to carry the sleigh
Through white and drifted snow."

"Oh, I'm gettin' nuttin' for Christmas
Mommy and Daddy are mad.
I'm getting nuttin' for Christmas
'Cause I ain't been nuttin' but bad."

(Sorry, Scotty...I don't know where you disappeared to!)

Hanging out with Unc Scott

2009-12-22T21:18:00.000-05:00

Playing at Honey and WaWa's with the same toys that Mommy, Aunt Laura, and Uncle Scott loved.

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-20T10:42:00.000-05:00

We wish you a very merry Christmas and a fun-filled New Year!

Love,
Ryan, Audrey, Samuel
Lucy, and Desi

Happy 30th, Corrie!

2009-12-19T21:54:00.000-05:00

For Corrie's 30th birthday, Ryan (hers, not mine) and Ms. Susan flew me to Texas to surprise her. I was a little worried that she'd go into labor from the surprise, but Reid and Chase stuck it out. Jimmy picked me up from the Austin airport, sans luggage, and we headed to the diner in Georgetown. Jimmy walked in to get his talking to for being late for dinner (he was supposedly looking at a sander he found on Craig's List), and I appeared a few minutes later. The look on Corrie's face was priceless.

We had the BEST time together. We relaxed, played with Clara, shopped (hello, Hobby Lobby!), got pedicures, ate some of our favorite foods, and just hung out. In the picture above, we're having our traditional toast - during our Italy trip 7.5 years ago, we had a toast with every meal. This one was to "best friends, getting older, and baby boys."

A great birthday present for both of us!

Christmas at Aldersgate

2009-12-17T21:38:00.000-05:00

Mommy went to Sam's Christmas program at Aldersgate (the Tuesday/Thursday school). The kids came into the church sanctuary where all of the eager parents were waiting - here's Sam when he spotted his Mommy.

They sang lots of their regular music songs - Itsy Bitsy (BIG HAIRY) Spider, Wheels on the Bus, Bringing Home a Baby Bumblebee, and some others and then sang their Christmas songs for us. Sam kept telling me, "Mommy, you sing it."

Sam and his buddy Luca chasing each other around the room. Ms. Kim and Ms. Leigh Anne assured me that every day is not like this - only days with no outside or gym time. Good thing since Sam and Luca are together 5 days a week.

And Sam with Elie, his other best buddy. Elie goes to both Temple and Aldersgate too.

A river

2009-12-16T07:50:00.002-05:00

After story time two nights ago...

Sam: River, Mommy.
Mommy: Where, Sam?
Sam: River. Cross river.
Mommy: Okay. Where is the river, Sam?
Sam puts his finger on Mommy's forehead.
Sam: River on Mommy head.
Sam: Cross river on bridge.

Thanksgiving at Temple

2009-12-16T07:49:00.000-05:00

Honey and WaWa went with Sam to his Thanksgiving celebration at Temple. He was (obviously) so excited to see them!

Sam loved Thanksgiving. We chased turkeys around our house for weeks, apparently they really like to run away. One evening, Sam and I were talking, and Sam told me, "Mommy, turkeys funny. Ha. Ha. Ha. Ha." I died laughing, and he kept saying it over and over again.

On Sam's hat, it says, "Sam is thankful for Pip."

Con-grad-ulations, Unc Scott

2009-12-12T20:58:00.000-05:00

A few pictures from Unc Scott's graduation, one of our first December trips.

Coloring with Honey at dinner.

"Hold my hand." Sam's favorite request, and then he promptly picks up his feet.

It was COLD in Atlanta.

Mommy, have you seen Unc Scott?

WaWa, have you seen Unc Scott?

Let's call Unc Scott!

The Ramblin' Wreck.
No pictures of the graduate - I think Jim took those, so hopefully we'll have them soon.

Congratulations, Scott! We're very proud of you.

Weekend with Ben and Katie

2009-12-08T17:32:00.002-05:00

Ben and Katie came to spend the weekend with us - Sam had such a good time with 2 more kids in the house. He continues to ask, 4 weeks later, when Ben and Katie are coming back.
He crashed early the first night, so Ben and Katie had the bubbles all to themselves.

Three car seats is a bit tight in the back seat of my car, but look how happy Sam looks!

Just playing at Chick-fil-A.

On the way home from the party we had celebrating 2 marriages and 2 new babies amongst the people I work with...

A friend to play with on the teeter totter!

Katie told her Mommy when she got home, "Sam loves to wrestle too much!"

Shopping - Sam Style

2009-11-15T18:49:00.000-05:00

Sam recently went shopping at Morgan Imports. He picked up trucks...

Trucks...

AND MORE trucks!

Trick Treat

2009-11-03T21:56:00.004-05:00

First, some pun-kin carving...best done with no clothes on.
And later that night, Lightning McQueen is OFF! Sam's original costume was Patch from 101 Dalmatians, but Sam didn't want to wear the "coat" because he said it was "too big." And yes, it was, but we could have fixed that! So one trip to Target the night before his Temple Halloween celebration, Sam found Queen. Mommy was looking at the ducks and dinosaurs while Sam dug through the costumes that had fallen off the hangers. It was love at first sight!

Sam liked Trick Treating (as he calls it), but he LOVES the can-y. He's been asking for it constantly. That and to Trick Treat again. Hal-ween today?

Mommy and her favorite boy. When I say, "I love you, Sammy," Sam now says, "I love me, Mommy" and gives me a big hug. Aww!

Charleston

2009-10-25T21:18:00.003-05:00

Silly Sam

2009-10-11T20:30:00.000-05:00

Sam and Daddy - desperately needing hair cuts. Thankfully, they've both gotten them by now.

Playing songs for Pip. In this picture, he's playing with his hands, but he'd much rather play with his FEET!

I asked him to smile...this is what I got.

Mommy was working one night, and Sam was watching "The Dog Show" (aka 101 Dalmatians) on the couch. He kept calling, "Hi, Mommy! Hi, Mommy!" And here's what I saw when I looked over.

Sam went to church with us today, for the first time in a while. Since Chris and A-O moved here, he's been staying at their house while we go and enjoy church. We coached Sam the whole way to church. You have to be quiet. You have to whisper. You have to sit in your seat. For every time we said, "You have to whisper at church," he would SCREAM. Every time we said, "Tell Pip that he'll have to be quiet during church," Pip would bark. Sam was great through the homily. Very quiet. Stayed in our pew. Then he reached his threshold. He and I hung out in the back until communion, and then after communion, Daddy took him out. Sam was yelling as they walked to the back, "I want my mommy. I be good now!"

In the car today on the way from church to Sam's favorite restaurant (he starts yelling "Cafeteria!!!" when he sees it), Sam told us, "I keep my eyes op-op for nother park."

A little while later he told us, "My poopy stinky." Great.

What Sam Learned at Temple

2009-09-20T21:16:00.002-05:00

Sam goes to two preschool programs...Temple on Monday and Wednesday and Aldersgate (but we call it "school" - Aldersgate is way too hard to say) on Tuesday and Thursday. Sam seems to really enjoy both programs, and after a few tearful goodbyes, we're now down to a kiss and a "Mommy, go work!" from Sam.

During the first week at Temple, they talked about friends. Thank goodness for those handy school calendars, otherwise, I might not have known. But Sam did bring something of those lessons home...the other day, he wrapped his little arms around my neck for a big squeeze and said, "Mommy. My friend."

Melt my heart!

Has anyone seen Sam?

2009-09-20T08:56:00.002-05:00

A-O (Ariel) taught Sam a new game...

He now LOVES to play hide-&-go-seek! A-O took these pictures of him on a day they hung out together while Mommy and Daddy worked.

When we play, someone has to hide with Sam (his request). He giggles the entire time. When the seeker calls out, "Sam, where are you? Are you in the kitchen?" He responds with, "No! I in the ba-room."

We are so glad to have Chis and A-O living near us again!

Duke Football

2009-09-13T15:25:00.000-05:00

We got season tickets to watch the Blue Devils play this year. Wallace Wade is certainly NOT Kyle Field, but we all had a great time tail gating before the game and then at the game.

"I can't believe this is happening!"

Here we go, Devils! Here we go!

WaWa helps Sam get a better look.

Honey

2009-09-01T06:46:00.000-05:00

First Day of School

2009-08-30T16:43:00.000-05:00

On Thursday, Sam went to school for his first day in Mrs. Kim and Mrs. Leigh Anne's class. We went to orientation on Monday, and he cried for a few minutes after I left to go to the parent meeting, but when we (Wawa and I) got back, Sam wasn't very interested in leaving!

Sadly, the best picture I have of him on the first day of school was strapped into his seat in the back. The whole 5 minute drive to school was filled with Sam telling me, "Mama take me to school. Wawa pick me up." When I interrupted and asked him what he was going to do at school, his response..."Play train."

He was so excited to get into his classroom that he couldn't even stand still for a picture in the hallway. We hung up his backpack together, he denied me a kiss, said "Bye, Mama" and headed straight for the train. No tears (from either of us).

What he did at school will remain a mystery - he hasn't told anyone, no matter what questions we ask.

More Birthday Celebrations

2009-08-30T16:00:00.000-05:00

For his birthday, Sam got a train table from Mama and Daddy and a train set from Honey and Wawa. He couldn't wait to play - in fact, he starting pulling it out of the gift bag while none of us were paying attention.

What's taking so long?

More cake!

Sam sandwich

So Dada's room (the bonus room) is now home to Thomas and his table and track. Sam races up the stairs when we get home every day..."O-oop door, Mama. Toma." When we leave in the morning, "Bye, Toma." When we go upstairs to bed, "Nigh nigh, Toma."

Sam's 2nd Birthday Party

2009-08-18T15:13:00.004-05:00

Sam is 2!

We celebrated with our neighbors with a very low-key party in our front yard on July 16, just a few days late.

Sam had been practicing blowing out his candles with Honey, so he was SO excited when we brought out a cake with candles AND his train.

Sam thought his new bubbles were a GREAT gift. Thank you, friends.
Sam and Ally.

Why does Ryan look so happy holding Baby Ben? I certainly hope he's not getting any ideas.

Ryan, Baby Ben, and Tommy.

And just like last year, we couldn't have had a party without the help of WaWa, Honey, and Aunt Laura. Thank you!!!

Sam and Honey.

Also a few days late, Sam went to the doctor for his 2 year checkup. He weighs 24 pounds, 2.5 ounces (10th percentile) and is 35 1/4 inches tall (70th percentile). Tall, skinny, and healthy. The pediatrician told Ryan not to worry...that toddlers usually only eat what we consider a "good meal" every 2 or 3 days. That's exactly what I've been telling Ryan too, but I guess the doctor had a little more credibility.

Morning

2009-08-12T22:06:00.002-05:00

Watching "Clue Clue" with Pip while Mommy gets ready for work.

Our morning conversation:

Sam: I wake up.
Sam: Sun out.
Mommy: Right. The sun is out.
Sam: Moon go way.
Mommy: The moon is gone. It went to sleep.
Sam: Moon sweep-ing. Sun out.
Mommy: That's right.
Sam: Day time. Cwock off.
Mommy: Yes. My alarm clock went.
Sam: Pip sweeping. Pip, wake up. Day time.

More June pictures

2009-08-07T10:53:00.005-05:00

I honestly don't know what we were doing in June that I am so delinquent in posting any pictures of our adventures. We were probably just getting by which seemed to be the theme of the spring at the Turley house. Ryan was back working in the SICU in June, and work for me was a little crazy too.

June 3, 2009 - Hanging out at Honey and Granpa's House

June 27, 2009 - Sam and Mommy were loving some McAlister's Tea just like Aunt Corrie

I Swim!

2009-08-05T08:15:00.000-05:00

Sam and Desi went swimming at Honey and Granpa's house. Lucy wanted no part in this nonsense, but Desi and Sam had the best time!

General Surgery Residents' Dinner 2009

2009-07-15T21:30:00.003-05:00

What does a girl do when her husband brings home an invitation for a Saturday black-tie dinner on Monday evening? She gets help from her best neighbor, of course. Nicole, Gracie, and I had almost more fun trying on Nicole's gorgeous dresses than Ryan and I had at the dinner.

(The Self-Named 4 Horsemen: Judson, Ryan, Dave, and Drew)

We were only 1.5 hours late because Ryan had to work, but we were able to enjoy the dinner, the recognition of the graduating residents, and to hang out with the 4 horsemen (as Ryan and his 3 classmate buddies call themselves) and their more lovely significant others.

(Wearing a lovely dress from Nicole's Closet - Thank you, Nicole!)

(Judson and Ryan playing it cool.)

Been Busy

2009-07-08T14:57:00.008-05:00

I think that our weekends of digging holes, spreading mulch, and planting flowers may finally be over. In May when we got back from Disney, we ordered 5 cubic yards of mulch. Sam was SO excited that a TRUCK came to his house and dumped DIRT in the driveway. I just watched in disbelief. I take full responsibility for 5 cubic yards. Ryan thought we should order 3, and I told him not to skimp or try to be cheap. Next time, we'll order 3.

Here's Sam on one of our many trips to Lowe's.

Our yard, before...see the horrible nandina that someone tried to just sheer? We pulled EVERYTHING out last summer. I think we're finally finished adding to the front flower beds now.

Now we have trees, flowers, and LOTS of mulch!

Grandma

2009-07-08T06:30:00.000-05:00

MARIA ISABEL CRIXELL VELA, our beloved mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, entered into eternal rest July 3rd, 2009. Mom was born in Brownsville, Texas, July 2, 1914. She married her high school sweetheart, Alfredo N. Vela, Jr, (deceased) and together had 5 children, Mary (Vela-Crixell), Alfredo N. Vela, III, Carlos V. Vela, Ana I. Vela McKee and Ruben E. Vela. In 1958 Mom and Dad moved to Houston, Texas where they lived for 49 years and celebrated 68 years of marriage. Mom's family grew to include 11 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren which included Mary's family, husband John Langworthy, children Deborah McGrew, Donnie McGrew (deceased), Joan McGrew and husband Chip Taber and their children Rachelle and Nicole Taber; Alfredo's family, wife Mary Ann, and daughters Angela Vela and husband Donald Cox, Madeline Vela, husband Andy Dvorocsik, and children Gregory and Theresa, and Elisa Vela, husband Tom Ferguson and children Tracy and baby Mariana; Carlos's family, son Carl Vela, wife Pam, and their children Lauren and Noah Vela; Ana's family, husband George McKee, their children, Audrey McKee and husband Ryan Turley and son Samuel, Laura McKee and husband Jim Hejl, and son Scott McKee; and Ruben's family, wife Debbie and sons Christopher and wife Tara Vela and Nicholas and wife Kelly Vela. We loved our Mom, Grandma and Great-Grandma. We will remember the recipes she taught us to make, the crafts and heirlooms she created, the prayers she taught us to pray and the love she had for each of us. A rosary will be prayed Friday, July 10th at 5:00pm and Mass will be said Saturday, July 11th at 10:00am. Both services will be at St. Dominic Village Chapel located at 2401 E. Holcombe Blvd., Houston, Texas. Internment will be at Brookside Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent in memory to St. Dominic Village.

Long Walk for the Cure

2009-06-18T10:55:00.003-05:00

Sam and I participated in the Race for the Cure on Saturday with all the girls from my office and 2 moms, 1 daughter, and 1 grandson as part of the "Ladies of a Certain Age and Friends" team.
It was HOT. We were sweaty. There were tons of people (look at the sea of white in the picture above). And Penny, one of our team leaders, said her house was "really close to the race site." So we walked 1.5 miles to the race site plus the 5K plus 1.5 more miles from the race site. Thank goodness there were people all along the route to hose us of and give us drinks.

We had tons of fun, but next year...we're taking the shuttle!
Standing (left to right): Amalia, Amalia's mom Karen, Penny, Cara, Cara's mom Susan, Joan, Joan's daughter Alicia, Whitney, Kristen

Seated (left to right again): Liz, me with Sam, Joan's grandson Liam

Back in the Saddle

2009-06-12T19:22:00.000-05:00

Well, Ryan's back at work (on nights, of course!), and we're all slowly getting back into the swing of not having a stay at home daddy. Katie came to visit last week!!! The only picture I have is of Sam and Grandma enjoying their LocoPops, so we'll have to wait for Katie's pictures.

Sam wakes up in the morning in the happiest of moods. After naps, it's not the same story. Every morning I ask Sam, "Did you have sweet dreams?" He always nods his head yes, and then when I ask what he dreamt about the answer is always the same "TRUCKS!" Of course, what else would Sam dream about?

So Sam is in bed here with Bubba and, by his request, they are both covered up by the "bank bank."

He can say Pip's name now, and still when he can't find Pip, he walks around with his arms in the I don't know pose.

Sam's souvenier from Disney World was the Disney Sing Along Songs video from Disney Land. Maybe it wasn't such a good idea. Every day, when we get home, Sam heads straight for the tv to see "Mic Mic." What was I thinking?

Animal Kingdom - Day 2

2009-06-07T19:49:00.003-05:00

One more Magic Kingdom picture....The Haunted Mansion - one of my all-time favorites. Sam liked to too, although the second time we rode it (on Day 5), he finally fell asleep in the middle of the ride.

On Day 2, we went to Animal Kingdom. Another hot, hot day!

It started out great - meeting and greeting the characters. Sam would walk up to them, say "Hi," and wave.

Sam's favorite part of Animal Kingdom - the Safari ride.

And of course, the train ride. Nothing better than a train ride in Sam's book! Emma went with us on the train ride to see Animal Kingdom behind the scenes while Liz and Ryan rode some grown-up rides, and then we switched and rode Everest (awesome!) and Primeval Whirl while Liz and Ryan hung out with Sam and Emma.

Sam Goes to Amarillo (Part 2)

2009-06-02T21:42:00.003-05:00

Everybody went to the zoo on Sunday. Silly Sam, can't even pay attention for one picture!

Mimi's friend Linda hosted a Memorial Day BBQ at her house with her kids and grandkids and Mimi's kids and grandkid. Sam and Jade, Linda's youngest grandson, were both born on July 12, 2007, but I think Jade and his brothers had lots to teach Sam at the BBQ.

This is probably Sam's favorite part of the trip. "Gigi. Choo Choo." Gigi had a train waiting for Sam. Only the shells of the 2 choo-choo cars made the return trip home and the first nights Sam was home, he had to sleep with Gigi Choo Choo. Thank you, Gigi!

And the best part...Sam rode...
When he talked to Honey after Uncle Mikey took him to ride a horse, Sam told Honey on the phone "ride. dog. big. dog."

Sam Goes to Amarillo (Part 1)

2009-05-30T23:02:00.002-05:00

Sam and Ryan spent Memorial Day weekend in Amarillo visiting Mimi, Coach, Aunt Sara, GiGi, Uncle Mikey, Aunt Tami, Kayla, Quentin, Granny Turley, Stephanie, Trilby, David, Martha Jo, and lots more friends. Getting there was a little rough, but they did make it.

On Saturday, Sam and Ryan took GiGi, Mimi, and Coach to the park to feed the ducks.

Ryan says the caption of this photo is "Running home to Mama." I think he just wanted to play more and take less pictures!

After the ducks had their lunch, the people had to eat...hamburgers as big as a pie plate! Sam's report on the phone that night didn't include the hamburgers....only the ducks! Sam blossomed into a chatty phone buddy over this trip. He called Mama, Honey (Hi-Hi), and Granpa (Wa-Wa) separately at least once a day.

Hitting another of our favorite Amarillo restaurants - this time for chips, hot sauce, and delicious TexMex at Tacos Garcia with Ryan's cousin Stephanie, her daughter Trilby, and David and Martha Jo (Ryan's aunt and uncle). I love the look on Sam's face in this picture!

GiGi with 3 of her grandkids and 2 of her great-grandkids.
More to come - including real Texas tractors and horses!

Disney 2009 - Day 1 at the Magic Kingdom Part 2

2009-05-29T22:59:00.000-05:00

Sam's favorite ride - the Tomorrowland Speedway. Race! Race! Race!

It's a Small World was probably his second favorite. He noticed EVERYTHING on the ride - in the picture with Ryan below, he's waving to one of the animals he saw. We rode It's a Small World 3 times - once each day we went to Magic Kingdom.

The Jungle Cruise was pretty fun - there was just so much to see!

And then the Magic Carpets.

Disney 2009 - Day 1 at Magic Kingdom

2009-05-24T21:57:00.001-05:00

We spent 6 magical days at Disney World with Colville (one of Ryan's college roommates), his wife Liz, and Emma. Disney is one of my favorite places on earth, and Sam seemed to love it every bit as much as I do.

Day 1 at the Magic Kingdom. Hot. Very Hot. It was almost 10 degrees above normal on day 1. Sam loved seeing Mickey and Minnie and friends "Celebrating" on the stage in front of the castle.

Our first ride - the Tea Cups.

And then onto Dumbo. Sam wasn't too sure about flying.

More to come...

* Thanks to Patrick Q, Philster, Kurtynisn, and Joe Penniston for sharing their Disney pictures on Flickr. All of the pictures that don't have us in them are from Flickr.