My mommy has a blog!

A different generation

2009-09-11T09:00:00.000-07:00

About two years ago I was working at Sunnyslope High School. I was in a science class when a student in the far back said something about 9/11. The conversation made its way to the front of the room where a student looked at me and asked

"Mrs. Schneider, what is so important about 9/11? I mean, I know its a big deal, but why?"

I stood shocked for a moment. How does this kid not know? Did they live in a hole for the past 6 years? And then it hit me...6years...their 13 now, so that means they were 7. They were in 2nd grade. Their teacher was probably instructed to keep the television turned off so that it wouldn't scare the children. Their parents told them the bare minimum as to not scare them.

How odd is it that there is an entire generation that won't remember where they were that day, or just how important it is to remember the lives lost on that September morning. Just kinda odd I guess.

Birthday Party!!

2009-09-01T09:51:00.000-07:00

Well Madison had her first birthday party! It was small, just family at Robin's house (Matt's mom). Matt grilled burgers and dogs and we had plenty of food leftover. Madison got a years worth of gifts and she loves ALL of them! My sister and Matthew got her books and whenever we are playing she grabs a book and brings it over to me so I can read it to her! SOoooooooo cute! Here are some pictures from that day, we had a great time, thank you everyone for coming!

1 year ago today...

2009-08-25T20:05:00.000-07:00

So in about 3 and a half hours our little girl will be a year old! When people say having kids changes everything their not kidding! Having Madison in our lives changed everything for Matt and I and all in a good way. Sure having a kid makes things a little more difficult, you can't pick up and go to a midnight movie anytime you want, you can't sleep till noon if you stay up to late the night before and we are currently getting to the stage where she is absorbing all the sounds we make so I am trying to edit my swearing...of which there is a lot of. But all of those things are nothing compared to the joy and wonder that is our little girl! We love her so much and can't believe that we have been blessed with such an amazing gift! Here are some pictures of Madi from the past year. Unfortunately the go in descending order rather than ascending order...sorry about that but I am too tired to fix it! I copied this idea from my friend Nicole who did this on her daughters 1st birthday...thanks for the idea friend:)

Not even a year old and already walking

First time at the beach

Shes a fish!!!! LOVES the water!

Easter 2009

Thanksgiving 2008

First family picture!!!! August 26, 2008 12:35am 4 pounds 2.6 oz and 16 inches!!!

Pictures of the happy couple!!!!

2009-07-16T10:18:00.000-07:00

My brother and Tara are getting married! I had already posted about that awhile ago, but no there are pictures to prove it!! Are friend Kelsie Pinkerton is an amazing photographer! She took their engagement pictures a few weeks ago and will also be taking their wedding pictures. Here is the link to check them out...www.pinkertonphoto.com/slideshows/tarad

Baya...just click on the underlined above and it will take you to see their pictures! It might take a few minutes to load! Love you!!

4th of July, naked time and her buddy Declan!

2009-07-10T11:21:00.000-07:00

Playing in Auroras crate!

Her buddy Declan came over the other night. They played in the front yard together got really dirty in the grass and mud...then it was time for bath time! Madi is much more interested in the washcloth!

Everyone needs a little naked time

On the 4th of July we went swimming in the Folzs' backyard. Thank you Susie and Bill for the wonderful gift of a pool this summer! We go all the time and it is just like having one of our own except without all the responsibility!!

Madi and Momma in the pool!!! She is holding herself up...I'm not helping I swear!

So its been awhile since I posted...i know this! And my parents are out of town and need some pictures of Madison. My mom actually called the other day and asked to talk to Madi so she doesn't forget her voice...I think shes going through grandchild withdraws! Madi is standing on her own and so badly wants to walk. She is swimming every day and loves it!! She loves kicking and putting her face in. Her kick is actually a breast-stroke kick!! In my 10+ years teaching swim lessons I have never seen a baby do a breast-stroke kick!! She is a swimming prodigy already!! So here are some pictures of the past month or so hope you enjoy!!

My "boss":)

2009-06-19T10:43:00.000-07:00

Let me start by saying I love being a mom! I do...I really love it. I feel very blessed to be able to stay home with Madi and I love the time we get to spend together. I know for the rest of my life I will always treasure these times, because I will never get them back. With that being said, let me say that it is not easy. I consider staying at home with Madi my job and like any job it has it's ups and downs. The only difference is that in this job I have a 10 month old boss that is sometimes very demanding and very messy:) With other regular jobs your boss gives you feedback, positive or negative. A 10 month old can't say "Your doing a great job! You are going over and above your job requirements and we really appreciate the time your putting in." Sometimes not hearing that is difficult. I need to know that I am doing a good job from the person I am doing the job for, but she can't tell me that. The only way I know that I am doing what she needs for her is when she giggles at me when were playing peek-a-boo or when she smiles at me while I'm changing her diaper. Those are little subtle things but they are encouragement nonetheless. I hear from Matt all the time that I am a great mom and he can't imagine doing what I do. Which is wonderful and I really appreciate. I guess I will just have to wait a couple years when she can look at me and say "Thank you mommy." Can't wait!!!!

my new favorite face!!!

2009-06-09T10:24:00.001-07:00

We had asparagus last night...Madi was not a fan!!! I love this picture! She is becoming so much more expressive!

On vacation...no pics!

2009-06-04T09:29:00.000-07:00

I am on my last day of vacation with Madi and my mom in Palm Springs. We orginally were going to go on this awesome trip to Washington D.C. with 5 seniors from Sunnyslope High School. It would have been the coolest trip, but we weren't able to get the tickets changed over to our name (two kids droped out, that's why were able to go). I was super disapointed!! I love D.C. and would have loved to share that expereince with Madi and my mom. Oh well, God had another plan...my mom said "hey, we were already planning on going on vacation, let's go somewhere anyway!" So she rented a house in Palm Springs, CA for cheap and we have been here since Saturday. This trip is super relaxing filled with swimming, shopping and eating! Madison is LOVING her swim time and I have been loving my relaxing time! I realized that I really don't relax very much at home. I always feel that there is something else to be done. I am a lot like my dad that way. Even as a kid I can remember going on vacation with the family and watching my dad, he never fully relaxed. My mom has no problem getting into relax mode. But my dad never could switch into that mode as quickly. I really want to be able to switch into the "vacation, relax mode" a lot faster. On another note...I am ashamed to admit that I love US Weekly, PEOPLE magazine and all other trashy celeb gossip magazines!! I know that they are horrible, but I can't help it! Whenever I see one, especially when I'm on vacation I desperately want to buy it and when I do I feel a little guilty that I bought one! It's a catch-22. I really love them though:)

Its been AWHILE!!

2009-05-17T14:13:00.000-07:00

I apologize for the lack of posting in almost a month. Life has gotten away from me and I haven't gotten a chance to sit down and load some photos onto the computer. I am just getting over a cold and now my sweet little Madi is getting it. Nothing major, just a cold, but I hate it when she is sick! We leave on Thursday for a mini family vacation to California so I am hoping we are all in great health by then. At least that is what I am praying for!!

Here are some pictures of our life the past couple weeks! Hope you enjoy!

Madi got dedicated at church on Mother's Day! She was such a good listener while Shannon prayed!

Best bed head ever!!!!!

Last week I watched my friend Julie's girls. She has a 3 and a 1 year old (Madison and Haley). We had a great time!!! This is use playing in our front yard with a tarp, water and some Dawn soap! The girls loved it...hours of entertainment!

No pool, No problem!

2009-04-21T18:50:00.000-07:00

Due to the fact that we live in Phoenix and summer time comes in April we need to keep cool. We don't have a pool and Madison loves the water so we decided to play with the hose in the front yard yesterday. It was 96 degrees outside so she loved the cool water!

Easter Pics!

2009-04-13T14:57:00.000-07:00

This is Madi and my dad up in Camp Verde after church on Easter! So Cute!!!

The Schneider Family in our Easter best!!! Madi loved her Easter headdress!!!

This picture was taken on Saturday. Madi looks so big with her daddy's hat on!

I LOVE Easter!

2009-04-10T09:03:00.000-07:00

While Easter is not one of the most popular of holidays, it is one of my favorites. I say its not popular because it doesn't hold the following of millions as Christmas or even the 4th of July. Sure people get together with their families on Easter Sunday to eat and socialize but I bet if you asked the vast majority of people why we celebrate Easter most would have no clue. What I think I love the most about Easter weekend is Good Friday. I know what your thinking "Jeannette, your favorite part about Easter is the day Christ was crucified??" And my response is Yes. For many reasons Good Friday is my favorite part of the weekend 1) Christ died so I can LIVE!!! Good Friday is a great day to remember just how much he really loves us! 2) Ever since I was a kid my mom would take us to this place in Phoenix called Canaan in the Desert. It is a beautiful place that shows Christ's life and death throughout this beautiful desert garden. 3) Good Friday Service @ Open Door. It usually is just music and communion and it is the most peaceful service. I love it!! 4) This year is the first Easter with Madison. It is so neat to be able to start our own traditions and to keep some of the old ones going.

So I hope all of you have a wonderful Easter weekend. And while the holiday has turned into peeps and giant chocolate bunnies, I hope we all take a moment and remember what this weekend is really about.

By the way here are some fun pics of Madi...she is getting sooooo big scooting along trying to crawl and growing up so fast!

what we do as parents

2009-04-01T07:58:00.000-07:00

As parents we do funny things to our children for the sake of a memory. We dress them up and have sit them on the lap of Santa Clause or the Easter Bunny when they clearly don't want to. We encourage them to sing the solo in Christmas pagent even though they can't sing (haven't had to do that yet, but I'm sure I will). And we put bunny ears on them in Target and ask our child if she is a "funny bunny". The question "are you funny bunny?" always makes Madi laugh and I figured it would totally make her laugh harder if she could be wearing bunny ears...it worked she did. Now if she only new how much this picture would haunt her for the rest of her life, for the sake of a memory!

working from home...easier said than done!

2009-03-24T15:43:00.000-07:00

So I know I haven't posted in awhile, but after you read this you will know why. So in the beginning of Feb. I got a part-time job. Then I lost the job (they lost the grant that was going to be paying my salary) then I got another job. This job is actually much more perfect for me and I get to work from home! I am the fundraising developer (for lack of a better title) for a The care Foundation. This foundation works within the Center for Autism Research and Education. It is a great organization and I am proud to be a part of it. So I am currently planning a huge event coming up May 3rd. The event is a Spring Fashion show and silent auction. It is going to be great! However, given the state of the economy people are not as willing to donate items as they were say a year ago. I am still getting people to give, just not as much as I would like. I did get a company to donate a venue for FREE so that made me feel really awesome!!!! The other challenge I am coming up against is working from home while Madi is teething. We all know teething sucks for babies and I think it is equally hard on the parents to see their little one so sad. Matt is great and gives me as much time as he can during the mornings and on his days off to work, but there is so much still to do and 1 month to do it in! I know that I can do this! I know that God would not have put this perfect opportunity in my lap only to fail 2 months later. I just want to be able to make money for my family, while spending time with Madi. Right now I am doing it, I just hope this event is successful so that I can continue to do it! If you wanna pray for me pray that...donors come out of the wood-work to give us things to auction off, pray that we sell 100 tickets to the event (heck...if your praying...pray we sell 200 tickets) and pray that Madi cuts a tooth soon, she is pretty grumpy these days and I hate seeing her like that!

So I apologize for the lack of posting in awhile...but the pictures above are some current pictures of Madison. She is sitting up and is able to pull herself up on all "fours" but she hasn't crawled yet. Not for lack of trying!!

My dad has a blog!!

2009-03-15T09:33:00.000-07:00

I mentioned a few months ago that my mom has a blog. She still does actually and never posts, what she likes to do is look at everyone elses blogs. My dad on the other hand just started a blog yesterday. So far he likes it...kinda. He's not quite sure how it all works yet but he is learning. My dad has many talents painting, building stuff, dancing (he can gator with the best of them) and writing. He wrote a book called Emancipating Elias which you can buy at the Borders Bookstore on 24th st. and Camelback. He is also working on a new book called Holy Ground. So go check out my dads blog and buy his books so he can but a new baseball hat!!

http://markjwilliams.blogspot.com/

Happy Birthday Matt!!

2009-03-05T08:19:00.000-08:00

Today Matt turns 27!! He is a little bummed about it, but I think its great! I got him the best gift ever!! He hasn't opened it yet so if you know don't tell him:) Matt is the best husband and father I could ever ask for. I am so lucky to have such a wonderful, 27 year old, sexy husband:))

Check it out!!

2009-03-02T08:37:00.000-08:00

http://www.downtownphoenixjournal.com/

My friend Kim is marrying a great guy named Sam. He is wonderful and perfect for her. He also owns a website. I really don't understand how one owns a website but he does! It's a great site and it gives a ton of information about the in's and out's of downtown Phoenix. So go to his website and subscribe to his newsletter. It costs nothing and they just send you an email every month...the more subscribers he gets the more people will want to advertise on his site and the more money he will make! They need the money cause they really want to buy the house next door to Matt and I and fix it up!!! he he...

Princess Madison!!!

2009-02-25T15:51:00.000-08:00

My brother took this picture of her yesterday! Doesn't she look so stinkin' cute?!?!?! She loves her uncle Tdub:)

Its Oscar night and I miss my friend Miranda:(

2009-02-22T09:48:00.000-08:00

My friend Miranda is in England studying for the semester at Royal Halloway. Which is wonderful and so exciting for her! It has been a dream of hers to travel to Europe and see everything there. While I am a so excited for my friend because she is fulfilling a lifelong dream of hers I can't help but be a little selfish today. You see, Miranda is my movie/Hollywood/celebrity guru. She knows everything there is to know about everything that has to do with celebrity lives. Tonight is the night where all those lives collide into a huge award show that we all know is rigged but we watch anyway. Last year, I was newly pregnant and the idea of going anywhere to watch the Oscars besides my couch was laughable. In the middle of the show I started texting Miranda about what I was watching. We continued to text for the entire show. We commented on what some of the women were wearing, who was dating who and just about every other caddy comment you could think of. It was so much fun! When we saw each other later that week we both said that next year we will have to actually watch the show together. Well, we are here in next year and my beautiful friend is living her own celebrity life in England. I am so proud of her for going and exploring a new life for a little while, just as long as next year she is sitting on my couch making fun of the crazy and wonderful people in Hollywood. I love you my sweet friend and miss you dearly!

my apologizes

2009-02-19T10:34:00.000-08:00

I apologize for the large-ness of Madison above. I can't figure out how to make the picture smaller. But if you had to look at something that large aren't you glad it's the cutest baby in the world rather than an over-weight man in a speedo???Just trying to put it in perspective!

and last but never least.....

2009-02-13T10:04:00.000-08:00

Travis and Tara are getting married!!! He asked her last night and she said YES!!! We are all very excited about the whole thing. I can't believe that my little brother is getting married. It seems like just yesterday he was 3 and I was telling my mom he had a cricket in his mouth...true story. Now he's a grown up and marrying a wonderful woman. She truly is the best for him, not to mention our family. My sister and I have always joked that if anything were to ever happen between the two of them that we would probably take her side...sorry Trav. We love her soooo much and are so happy to finally have another Williams girl!
In other not as exciting news, I am working. I am working for a company in town that teaches adults with disabilities the skills they need to get and maintain employment. I am only working part-time and I really like my job. I am the only teacher on staff so I really get to make up my own curriculum and pretty much do whatever I want, which I really like! I don't like being away from Madi, but it gives her a chance to hang out with her aunts, uncles and grandmas. Which she really loves and so do they.

Madi and Daddy!

2009-02-01T13:15:00.000-08:00

Happy Superbowl Sunday everyone!!! We are going over to my parents house for a little party later today. My grandparents are coming down from Camp Verde for the party and to see their great-grand-baby! By the way Madi loves her Daddy!! She loves to cuddle with him and when he is in the room she stares and smiles at him! It is so great to see the two of them together...they are best buddies!

Madison and her voice

2009-01-26T11:42:00.000-08:00

Madison has found her voice and likes to use it loudly!!! She found it awhile ago but it has been hiding for the last few weeks. This weekend she has been letting us know that she has an opinion about things. Most of the time it is fun to hear the noises she makes, however sometimes she gets pretty squeaky and it's a noise only dogs can hear. Matt had the whole weekend off including Friday so we have been having some much needed family time. Matt and I also went out on a date last night! We went to our favorite place The Yardhouse. We got some gift cards for Christmas and graduation so we could really splurge. I love going out with my husband. We have so much fun together! Matt and I have been married for over 4 years and together for just over 8 years! We have really grown up together. I love my husband he is a great husband and a wonderful dad! By the way Madi is 5 months old today. The pictures above are of where she was (the day we brought her home) and where she is today!

Madi and her great grandmas'

2009-01-16T09:45:00.000-08:00

Madison is such a lucky girl! She has two great grandmas' in her life that love her sooooo much.

Stay at home mom post

2009-01-16T09:34:00.000-08:00

So because I am staying at home with Madison I get to do a lot of things around the house. Laundry, cleaning the bathrooms and watching news updates in the middle of the day about plane crashes in the Hudson river. I am sure everyone saw the footage yesterday about the US Airways flight that crashed into the Hudson. It could have been a disaster but is wasn't. Everyone lived...it was a miracle. While I was watching the news yesterday I couldn't help but think about Madison and the people I know with little babies. I couldn't imagine being on that plane with Madi. I could handle it if it were just me or just Matt and I, but throw in a 5 month old baby and I have no idea how I would have reacted. I don't really know why I am posting about this except that I can't get begin to imagine going through something that stressful with Madison with me. Let's pray I never have to experience that.

Holy Hat!!!!

2009-01-13T12:43:00.001-08:00

Okay the hat I am not so much a fan of...but the smile...melts my heart!! I love this little girl...she is so stinkin' cute!

Blue eyed girl!!!

2009-01-09T13:17:00.000-08:00

So I am pretty sure Madison's eyes are going to be blue! Matt has blue eyes and while I was pregnant I had hoped she would get his blue eyes. They seem to be getting blue-er every day. I am loving this stage she is in right now. She laughs all the time and uses her voice a lot. She is so much fun! I went to the doctor the other day for my wrist. The doctor said that it is healing fine and that I need to do some physical therapy just for a few weeks to get better movement in my wrist. I am very glad that it is healing well. This break is not nearly as inconvenient as the last.

Long and Lean!!!

2008-12-30T13:09:00.000-08:00

Madison had her 4 month appointment this morning. She did very well even when they gave her two shots (we are spliting up her shots). She weighs 10 lbs 4 oz. and is 24 inches long. The doctor said she is in the 80th percentile for her height, but the 10 percentile for her wieght. The doctor said that she wasn't worried becasue Madi is growing very well you just can't change genetics. Turns out she will be tall and lean like her two parents. In other BIG news...she rolled over yesterday!! She rolled from her belly to her back and she did is wonderfully!! I was so proud of her. Since she proved that she could do it I have been trying to get her to do it over and over again! It never gets old!

It could be worse...

2008-12-19T19:47:00.000-08:00

So I wanted to update all of you who didn't know this little thing about my life. On Tuesday morning I went to Costco to pick up our Christmas cards. It was raining, I was wearing flip-flops (what else is new) and I fell on the sidewalk. Landed on my butt, but used my left wrist to break my fall. That was a mistake. I looked at my wrist and noticed that it was in the shape of and "S" clearly not the shape it was supposed to be. I went to the ER got some x-rays they said "it's broken" I said "duh". They knocked me out so they could put it back into place and on Wednesday afternoon I had surgery. I know have one large titanium plate in my wrist with eleven screws. The next step is having tests done to see if I have some sort of bone density issue. I think that's another "duh". So that has been our week. It was very difficult at first but as the week went on it has gotten easier. Apparently I am a "fall risk" need to wear secure shoes at all times. My sister recommended something within the Velcro family. I didn't think that suggestion was funny! :)

Finally!!!!!

2008-12-19T16:42:00.000-08:00

Well it is finally here! The day that has taken 7 years and a lot of blood, sweat and tears to get here. I graduated today with my Bachelors degree in Special Education. It was a beautiful day for me. All my family and friends were there to see me take those wonderful steps across that stage. I am soooooo thankful that throughout these past 7 years God gave me the strength and perseverance to continue. There were so many times that I wanted to give up, but God would always whisper quietly in my ear "keep going little girl, you can do this". He was right (which he always is). I am very happy to close this chapter of my life that has been open for so long!

The Wilson Family visits!!

2008-12-12T09:15:00.000-08:00

In the summer of 2002 I was introduced to a young woman at church. She was from out of town (Illinois) and here for the summer. We exchanged numbers and I told her to call me if she wanted to hang out. She called me the next Sunday, I invited her over for dinner and she ended up staying the weekend at my house. We spent that entire summer together. The next summer she moved out her until February of 2005 when she moved back to Illinois, met a wonderful man, got married and is mother to two beautiful children. God is funny in the way he works. That Sunday in 2002 was a very casual meeting. To be honest I totally forgot that I gave this girl my number until she called the following week. Who knew that God was setting this meeting up to be one of the most important of my life. He introduced me to a wonderful, compassionate, energetic woman that quickly became one of my closest and best friends. God is funny. You never know what he has in store for you from one day to the next. Jana, her husband Scott and their nine month old daughter Delaney came out to visit this last week. It was wonderful to see her and her family. Some of us had met Scott when we went back to Illinois for their wedding reception, but none of us with the exception of Meredith had met Delaney. She is adorable and so much like her mommy! I am horrible at taking pictures so the only picture I got this weekend was one with the three little girls. Emolyn and Delaney are one week apart and Madison is 6 months younger than the two of them. We all had a great time with the Wilson's and miss them terribly.

New pictures and fun stories!!!

2008-12-08T09:06:00.001-08:00

Madison has been changing a lot lately! She is laughing and smiling so much and we love to see her personality develop. She is growing and getting much heavier but still only fits into the newborn clothes. Even 0-3 months are too big! I worked last night and met a baby that was born the same day as Madi. I could tell Madi was taller than she was but not as wide. Madi doesn't really have that "baby chunk". Although, she does have a double chin that we are very proud of. She has found her hands and insists that she can fit her whole fist in her mouth! She has more head and neck control and can sit up against the couch for a long period of time without falling over. In other news Christmas is just around the corner and there is still a lot of shopping I have yet to do. In my family we draw names so we only have to buy for one person. I drew Tara (Travis's girlfriend) for the second year in a row. She is sooooo much fun to buy for because she looks cute in anything. Matt drew my dad and all he wants is his kilt outfit (heaven help us!). I promise to post some more this week!

First Thanksgiving!!!

2008-11-28T15:14:00.000-08:00

Madison had her first Thanksgiving yesterday! We gathered at my parents house for dinner with Matt's family, Matthew's family and Tara's family. Total there were 23 people! We had tons of food and a lot of fun. The day started out with watching the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade at home. I have a small (okay big) obsession with the Radio City Rockettes. I think they are amazing!! Madison was very impressed with them as well! I am hoping to pass this obsession on to my daughter and future generations :) We had a great time with all our family and friends and we are excited for the rest of the holiday season. My parents, Jessica, Matthew, Tara, Travis and I went shopping this morning at 4am! Matt was the only smart one and stayed at home sleeping with the baby. We completed our shopping extravaganza right as the sun was coming up. Let me just say that you would never think we were in a economic crisis judging by today's crowds! It is the third year we have gone out for early Black Friday shopping and it is so much fun! If you haven't done it try it next year! The above picture was taken yesterday on our first Thanksgiving together!

Sitting pretty!

2008-11-18T11:30:00.001-08:00

We have been working on Madison's ability to sit up! She is getting stronger and doing very well. She has no idea what to think of the whole thing though. I don't think she understands just how it works, but she is catching on quick!

Its' been awhile

2008-11-10T13:16:00.000-08:00

I'm sorry I haven't posted in awhile, life got a little busy for a couple of weeks. I have been studying for my teacher test which I took on Saturday. It was an all day process consisting of two tests. My brain felt like it was going to explode afterwards. It was easily the hardest tests I have ever taken. I won't find out the results for another month which is really hard because I am not very patient. In other news Madison is getting very big! She is fitting into actual newborn outfits, not just onesies! I am very excited about this change because know that it is starting to get colder she can actually fit into the cute winter stuff that so many people have bought her. She is sleeping great through the night only getting up once to eat and then going right back to sleep. We are so proud and so thankful! The picture above shows Madison wearing one of her newborn outfits. My Aunt Cheryl bought it for her and Madison loves it! Thanks Aunt Cheryl!

How cute is she!!!!

2008-10-29T10:56:00.000-07:00

So Madison has definitely found her smile and it's soooooo cute!!!! I took this picture yesterday to send to my friend Jana who lives in Illinois. She has a little girl name Delaney who 8 months old and soooo cute. Madison is excited to meet Delaney that's why she is smiling so big.

Pumpkin carving

2008-10-28T13:29:00.000-07:00

So this past Saturday my brother got us all together at my parents house to carve pumpkins. When Travis was little he loved to carve pumpkins and I am glad to see that he hasn't lost his love for it! Some of us carved ours free-hand while some of us used a template...cheaters! Everyone had a great time, including Madison!

7lbs.13oz...

2008-10-24T10:06:00.000-07:00

AND 21 inches long!!! Madison went to the doctor today for her two month check-up. She is gaining weight and growing big and strong. The doctor noticed that Madison turns her head to the left naturally. She said this could be an indicator that she will be a "lefty". Matt's mom Robin is a lefty so that would make sense. She did great today and was very popular in the office, lots of people came into the room to see the "cute baby". I'm so proud!

Lunch date

2008-10-21T15:52:00.000-07:00

Today Madison and I met with some very good friends of ours Anja, Ryan and their son Declan. Declan is four months old only two months older than Madi!! His parents are hoping he will become a professional football player with his size!! The two babies were very well behaved and had great table manners (Madi slept most the time :)) We had a great time seeing each other and exchanging baby stories!!

Schnepf Farm!

2008-10-19T10:53:00.000-07:00

Matt, Madison and I went out to Schnepf Farm in Queen Creek last night. Before we could begin our journey we had to turn around and go back for the stroller which we had left in the trunk of my car. We are still getting used to everything we need to bring for Miss Madison. We realize that Madison had no clue where or what we were doing but we had a great time. She slept most of the time we were out there except for at the end when it was time to pose for pictures. She even got her very first pumpkin! We had a great time and I can't wait to take her back next year when she'll be 1 year old!!

Feeling better!!

2008-10-14T18:42:00.000-07:00

Madison is feeling better these days. Her stuffy nose is long gone and she is almost finished with her antibiotic. In other news I started working this week!! I substitute taught on Monday and I go back on Thursday for a half day. It was nice to get out of the house for a few hours and talk about something that didn't have to do with poop or formula :) Matt was at home with Madison on Monday and did a great job. I am so thankful that I have such a wonderful husband. The picture above is of Madison today...she was a happy camper all day!

surrounded by the sickness part II

2008-10-08T12:09:00.000-07:00

Madison had a follow up appointment this morning and it turns out that along with her cold she has an ear infection. The doctor prescribed her an antibiotic so hopefully it will work quickly. In the mean time Matt is feeling better. He went back to work yesterday which was hard for both of us. I loved having him around for 6 weeks and he loved being here. Let's all just pray that Madison gets better quick!!

surrounded by the sickness

2008-10-06T16:50:00.001-07:00

So Madison has her first cold, which as new parents makes us terrified. Her nose is all stuffy and she is sleeping a lot. I had what I thought was a cold a couple of days ago but I think it was just allergies. Matt on the other hand also has a cold. He has to go back to work tomorrow which sucks because he is sick. He has slept a lot today which hopefully will help him recover quickly.

the dairy sacrifice

2008-10-04T14:53:00.000-07:00

So Madison has been quite jaundice this week. We took her to the doctor and they did a blood test to see what is causing the jaundice. They think that it is just "breast milk jaundice" which takes a little longer to go away than if she was on formula. They said that we could supplement a little formula to help the jaundice go away faster. Also, the doctor noticed that Madison tends to spit up a lot. She asked us if this was a usual occurrence, which it is. The doctor then asked what my diet consists of. I told her that I have Celiac disease so I can't eat anything with wheat, rye, barley or oats so my diet consists of a lot of dairy. The doctors response was "yup! that's what I was looking for. She is getting too much protein from you from the dairy so cut out ALL dairy for the next week and see if it changes anything." So basically I can eat meat, rice and potatoes. FUN huh??? It's really not that bad, but it does make me very thankful that I am not lactose intolerant!

Bath time!!!!

2008-09-29T10:39:00.000-07:00

Madison had her first bath in her bathtub this weekend. She has had baths before but they were more like sponge baths because I had been to nervous to put her in her tub. She loved the tub!!! She is her mothers daughter and LOVES the water!!!

Happy One month birthday!!!

2008-09-26T10:43:00.000-07:00

Today Madison is 1 month old!! She is getting so big and strong. Matt and I love just staring at her. She makes the funniest faces, most of which she makes when she is pooping or burping. Her favorite things to do these days are sleep, eat, suck on her pacifier, and poop. Shes not talking yet but I expect that to come within a few days, after all, I am her mother :)

6 lbs. 6 oz.

2008-09-23T17:22:00.000-07:00

What a chunk!! Madison went to the doctor yesterday and she weighs 6 lbs. 6 oz. She has gained over 2 pounds in 4 weeks! We as parents are so proud! It is crazy to think that she has been here almost a month!

Recovery

2008-09-18T08:35:00.000-07:00

So my c-section pains are still lingering but are much better than they were. I had never had any sort of surgery before Madison came along. Their not kidding about the recovery time of it all...it's long. They said "give it 6 weeks until you feel back to normal". I thought "OK, they say 6 weeks for lazy, average people unlike myself", what I found out is that they really mean 6 weeks for people just like me and longer than that for the lazy average folks. On the flip side, I am walking and doing really well at it. I go to physical therapy during the week and I am getting stronger. I love walking and standing and driving!!! They are wonderful things to do! Here are some fun pictures of Madison awake which is rare!

My new hair for my new baby!!

2008-09-16T13:57:00.000-07:00

So I haven't had my hair colored since last October! It has been awhile and I have missed it. Yesterday I got my hair cut and colored and let me tell you I felt so beautiful. It was really nice to be able to drive myself to the salon, have someone make me look pretty and then drive myself back home. As you can tell the driving part is really important to the story. It feels like when I was 16 years old and just got my drivers license and I wanted to drive everywhere! It is a great feeling of independence. Here are some new pictures of Madison and I. Some of which she is making crazy faces, but they are fun!

SOOOOOO Big!!!

2008-09-09T17:40:00.000-07:00

Somebody has been putting on the pounds and it hasn't been me! Madison went to her two week doctor's visit and she is 5 lbs. 4 oz. and 18 inches long!!!! The doctor said that she looks amazing and that her weight gain is wonderful. I have to admit that I am very proud of myself as well. Seeing as how I am producing the "food" that adds that weight I felt like I deserved a "pat on the back". In other news...Matt is still home and he will be home for another 4 weeks!!!! I love having him here, he is such an amazing help. Madi loves having her dad around too:)

Touchdown Madison!

2008-09-06T14:10:00.000-07:00

In honor of college football begining Madison would like everyone to know that she's a fan!

Livin' on the edge!!!

2008-09-04T13:16:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to share this picture of how hard core our daughter is. She's already throwin' up gang signs! She knows we live in a rough neighborhood and you gotta represent. I'm so proud of her!! If your reading this and think that I'm serious...I'm not. But i do love this picture because this is how she ends of sleeping sometimes and it's so fun to watch :)

One week in :)

2008-09-02T16:48:00.000-07:00

So Madison has been in our lives for one week! Matt and I can't believe how fast it went! I am sure the rest of our lives we will feel that way. Let's talk for a moment about C-section recovery... not so much fun. I am feeling MUCH stronger than I was when I was in the hospital and couldn't walk (yup I can walk now!) but it is still difficult to stand for a long period of time. I am hoping it will be better in couple days. Madison is doing great and eating like a champ! It seems like everyday she gets bigger and stronger. So far I love being her mom and I know Matt loves being her dad. I don't think those feelings will change anytime soon. :)

Madison Marie Schneider is here!!!

2008-08-31T17:03:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday August 26th at 12:35am Madison Marie Schneider entered our world. She was a 4 weeks early and quite tiny but she is doing perfect. She was 4 lbs. 2.6 oz and 16 and 3/4 inches long. Madison needed to be born via c-section so that has created a little extra long recovery for me but I am doing very well. As far as my ankle is doing, the day Madison and I got to go home was the first day I was able to bear weight on my foot and I have been walking ever since. Still walking with the boot on but walking nonetheless. Matt and I are so in love with this little girl it's amazing!!!

2:15am=Insomnia

2008-08-22T02:15:00.001-07:00

So it's 2 o'clock in the morning and I haven't been to bed yet. I tried, it failed. I think it's a combination of the last stages of pregnancy and sleeping with the boot on. Both make it very difficult to get a quality nights sleep. Plus I have 2 wonderful dogs that want to protect me from the bad people of the world so they bark at EVERYTHING that moves in the backyard, even if it is just the wind. I appreciate their protection but man it gets old. So I'm awake and I don't know when I will be able to fall asleep. Hopefully soon!!!

It's Official!!!

2008-08-17T15:49:00.000-07:00

I am DONE with my student teaching!!!!! The student teaching journey ended on Friday and I am happy to say that I did a great job!!! My ASU supervisor came out to Central on Friday morning, she saw me teach and then gave me a glowing report. I am very excited that this chapter of my life is OVER! Graduation won't be until December which I will for sure be participating in. In other big news...I got my plaster cast off!! On Thursday they took the old cast off and put on the boot. I still can't walk on it for 2 weeks but it is really nice to be able to take it off for a few hours a day. Also, I will be starting physical therapy on Monday. Hopefully that will speed up the healing process!

Floors are done!!!

2008-08-05T18:27:00.000-07:00

Yes that is right folks...My floors are done!!!! Matt finished the floors this weekend and I am soooooo excited that they are done! He has been working so hard and it is great to see that hard work pay off. Here are a few pictures, excuse the mess. Oh and for those of you who don't know the picture of the Rotti is our dog Aurora, Bandit is a little camera shy.

Trying to stay postive

2008-08-04T12:02:00.001-07:00

Last night I woke up at 3:28am. My ankle has been really hurting lately and it becomes really uncomfortable to sleep. As I laid awake for about 45 minutes I couldn't help but throw myself a little pity party of how much this sucks! I have been really trying to stay positive but at 3:28 in the morning I don't think anything is positive. I am really trying to look on the "bright side" like...I can get a lot of rest before the baby comes, I can catch up on some reading, I get to save on gas cause I'm not driving. All of that sounds wonderful for about a week, then you just want everything to go back to normal. I am sorry this is such a "downer" of a post. I am kinda using the blog as my journal so I am sorry that it isn't fun and happy!! Maybe tomorrow, today is just a hard day.

Chubby Foot!

2008-07-31T13:06:00.000-07:00

I went to the doctor this morning to see how my ankle is doing. The doctor said that it hasn't moved anymore which is a really good sign. He wanted to see how the ankle looked and he wanted to put on a tighter cast so they took the old one off. In the picture you can't see the rest of my leg but it looks like a stick, with my foot being the club. It was kinda funny and really wonderful to have the cast off for a little bit of time!

Look mommy...

2008-07-30T22:20:00.000-07:00

So I was walking into my doctors appointment today and there was a little girl probably about 8 or 9 years old standing out front with her mom. As I hobbled closer (I was on my crutches) she stops talking to her mom, stretches out her arm, points at me and says "look mommy". While I can appreciate the fact that she may have been pointing at the beauty of my hot pink cast, or the genuine "glow" of a pregnant woman, doesn't she know that it's not polite to point!!!! Come on little girl!! I know I look funny moving all slowly on the crutches! I wouldn't move that slow if I wasn't pregnant! I was pretty speechless. What I wanted to say to her was..."you know how I got this cast?? I crushed a little girl about your age with the power of my foot!" But I thought that might traumatize her for life! So I kept my mouth shut and hobbled on.

Just a little venting...

2008-07-28T11:20:00.000-07:00

Let's talk briefly about the accommodations made for persons of physical disabilities. It is 2008 and I used to believe that this meant we understood what modifications needed to be made to accommodate people with a physical handicap. But apparently not! I realize that I am not confined to a wheelchair 24/7, I also realize that I have only been in this situation for 2 and a half weeks, but this experience has shown me a lot. Such as...doors. If their not an automatic door they suck! They are hard to open, close, their heavy and the door handle is too high. Next... bathrooms. I visited my favorite restaurant for my birthday The Yardhouse and was sad to find that their bathrooms were not at all handicap friendly. The entrance to the bathroom had this horrible rubber bumber on the ground that you had to get a rolling start to go over! The actual bathroom was spacious, however when you got to the sink the faucet was too far back and the soap dispenser was too high. I am a tall girl, with long limbs so if I say something was too high or too far back you know it's true. Lastly, curbs. They are the worst invention ever! I think everything should be level with the street. Curbs are horrible! Thank you for listening to my venting. I realize that this experience will pass, but for right now I am learning a lot!

What a week!!

2008-07-27T19:30:00.000-07:00

Well this week has been quite busy especially for someone who can't drive themselves anywhere! First, my sweet friend Candice Stephens came over this week to paint the babies room. She is the art teacher at Sunnyslope High School and she is AMAZING!!! Matt and I are so grateful to her. She made the babies room real!! Secondly...My mom and my sister threw me a beautiful baby shower. We had a lot of fun and this little baby will not be in any need of clothes until she's 30! It was a wonderful and tiring week. Who knew that having a baby and being broken could take so much out of a person!

It's a learning experience!

2008-07-24T12:43:00.000-07:00

A very wise woman told me the other day that I should keep a journal during this time of my life. I realized that journals are only fun if other people can read them...so starts my blogging! I am almost 32 weeks pregnant and 2 weeks ago I broke my ankle. The right ankle to be exact so no driving and absolutely no pressure or walking on it! I have always considered my self a fairly independent person so this creates a little problem. I am completely dependent on other people for everything from meals to transportation. The past two weeks have been full of emotion, some days are harder than others. I am sure that a lot of the emotion has to do with the fact that I have a small person growing inside me and my body is full of hormones! The days are made easier with the help of my wonderful husband, family and friends! I couldn't survive without them! My mom comes over everyday that Matt is at work to make me lunch and clean my floor. My sister has set up a wonderful schedule for people to bring us meals twice a week and my husband listens in the middle of the night when I am in pain and all I can do is complain and cry. I have wonderful help and I know they help because they love me, but WOW it is really hard to take the help sometimes. I am not used to having people do everything for me. I know God is teaching me something, but some days I wish he could have just sent a note saying " Jeannette, you need to learn how to let people love and help you. That's it. No big drama, just read about it or something." That would have been really nice! But I know that it doesn't work that way. In the mean time I will be posting often as there is not a lot going on right now.