Sail Away For Ryder's 4th Birthday

In early May, with only a few weeks to spare before his birthday, Ryder and I agreed on a sailboat theme for his birthday party.  His party came together rather quickly and the afternoon was a great success!

 

Ryder Richard was named for my Papa, Fred Richard and with our recent loss I wanted to include a piece of Papa into the decor.  Papa owned and operated Kelley's Upholstery & Canvas for 55 years and together he and Ryder shared a love for both boats and Lake Erie.  While doing some yard work one afternoon for Grandma, Ryder and I came across a scrap piece of sideboard from a boat Papa had worked on.  I had envisioned a "SS Ryder" sign for Ryder's party decor and our found piece of wood was perfect.  I snapped the board in half with my bare feet (no joke!) to give it a jagged look, whitewashed it, and painted the name of our vessel upon the wood.  Alert the coast guard...the SS Ryder is shipwrecked!

Mommy and the birthday boy

 

Yummy cupcakes!  These super cute sailboat cupcake toppers were easy to make with a little scrapbook paper, sucker sticks, jute, and a hole punch.  I picked up the life ring and netting at Pat Catan's.  The cake stand and wooden tray (made by the hubby) I had on hand.

 

Ryder is a lover of sweet treats!  These Jell-O boats and chocolate covered Rice Krispie treats were a huge hit with the kids.  Sipping punch is always more fun when it is done through a festive straw!

I love to display photos of the boys at their parties.  With a little jute, ribbon, and tiny clothespins my favorite photos of Ryder from the past year were easy to see.  A piece of Papa's backyard is now in our backyard as well.  For years I have found great delight in his lilac bush out back.  Last fall (unknown to me) Papa transplanted a shoot from his own lilac bush for me.  My mom cared for it over the winter and following his passing we planted it in our yard.  The decorative lighthouse was the last item Ryder purchased for Papa (a few days before he passed).  Indeed, Papa's spirit could be found at Ryder's party!

Daddy and the birthday boy...

Make a wish!

 

 

Happy 'lil dude on his new bike Mammy gave him!  Less than a week later the training wheels were OFF and he was keeping up with his older two brothers!

 

 

Needless to say Ryder was pretty excited about the dune buggy we got him.  He has been busily looking for a trailer so he can tow it to the sand dunes this summer on our vacation;)  Clearly he wants to follow in his Daddy's footsteps in that regard!

 

Here is to hoping #4 is a GREAT year for our little Ryder!

{Two...Hudson Edition}

He...

...is the baby of the family

....causes laughter and smiles at the drop of a hat

....jumps with both feet, gallops, and runs with the best of them

...finds comfort in his bink-o and (pink) banky

...talks endlessly...difficult words like chocolate and breakfast flow from his lips with ease

...has two perfect dimples that light up a room

...has a love affair with Nemo and yells at him each and every time he dashes off to touch that darn butt

...has a deep, hearty laugh

...has a WICKED temper when something (ahem, or someone) sets him off

...can count from 1 to 10

...identifies his hair, eyes, ears, nose, mouth, hands, feet, belly, teeth, and bootie

...engages in dance offs and facial contortion battles with the little guy looking back at him in the oven glass

...refers to eggs as hugs which is beyond cute

....calls me Kelly and honey more often than Mommy

...wakes up in the morning asking for his peeps (Mommy-Daddy, Parker, Garrett, Ryder, Mimi, Geema, Papa, Geempa, Jerry, BB, and Geema Sheila)

...is a stocky 'lil dude with a healthy appetite

...thinks playing Rock, Paper, Scissors is the coolest

...is so loved and a wonderful blessing


He is...TWO!!!




Happy 2nd Birthday, Hudson!
May this next year bring you joy, smiles, and love!
We love you!!!

Q&A With My 8 Year Old!!!

*Birthday questionnaire can be found here*

Parker,

Happy 8th birthday, my (always and forever) special Valentine!  Your dad and I are blessed to call you our oldest son.  With the passing of each year, you continue to truly amaze me with your knowledge and eagerness to learn.  Your smile and laughter brightens each of my days.  As you continue to grow and spread your wings, I am thankful to share with you your unique journey through life.  May your 8th birthday be GRAND...full of surprises, hugs, and sincere love!  Happy Birthday!

Love Always,

Mommy

Happy 3rd Birthday, Ryder!

36 Things at 36 Months

1.  Born on May 12, 2008...today you are 3 years old!

2.  I love you more and more each day.

3.  Your crooked smile is that of your daddy's and your over the top smile is that of your mommy's.

4.  You ask to "Take e baff" (aka "take a bath") easily three times a day.  Your current favorite bath time buddy is Garrett.

5.  Each night before bed, you climb the side of Hudson's crib and bid him goodnight.

6.  Your eating habits drive me BONKERS!!!

7.  You are convinced that today is your 8th birthday.  I don't think so, little dude!!!

8.  While you are one of four brothers, you are the only one with BIG brown eyes.

9.  For some unknown reason the color orange screams RYDER to me!

10. You left today's shopping trip with a yellow watering can in your hands, it is now nestled alongside you in bed while you nap.

11. "I can't know" is your popular answer to most of the questions I have for you.

12. You love to sport underwear, but have zero interest in potty training.

13. You refer to your older brothers as "The boys" just as I do.

14. For the most part you are the first to rise each morning in our home.

15. The scale read 32.5lbs when I placed you upon it today!

16. You were the only one of our sons who was not named prior to delivery. Had you been born blond I would have insisted you been named Hudson.

17. You are fearless, agile, and lightening quick...a triple threat that makes this mama beyond nervous.

18. Gunkey remains your number one pal and can be found clutched in one of your hands throughout the day.

19. You are a brand new three year old; therefore, you will start preschool in the fall.  You fully believe preschool takes place at your Mimi's house.

20. The words "You-a-broke-a-my-house!" fly from your mouth whenever someone spills something on the floor, re-paints a room, pounds a nail into the wall, or heaven forbid moves furniture around. 

21. Pancakes and sausage is hands down your favorite meal.

22. You are stubborn to the core...a trait I am certain you most definitely, did not, under no certain terms, no way, no how picked up from me. 

23. You have taken to riding your tricycle like a pro and are ready for a 12 inch bike.

24. In the last 6 months you have developed a love for Toy Story and in particular the character Buzz Lightyear.

25. Speaking of Toy Story, I am certain the Geotrax Toy Story 3 Exploding Bridge Railway set we are gifting you for your birthday will be a HUGE hit with you! 

26. With two older brothers I feel you are growing up faster than I would like.

27. A mere 3 years old and you already have quite the sense of fashion.

28. You adore character socks.  I honestly cannot say I blame you when I compare them to their counterpart...plain, white socks.

29. As warmer weather begins to settle in, you are more than eager to spend your time outside playing.

30. Your smile, hugs, and "I love yous" warm my heart (and the hearts of those near and dear to us).

31. Your daddy is leaving his hair dreams through you and your long locks;) 

32. This summer is going to be a special one...the first for you riding your own dirt bike.

33. If allowed, you would eat your weight in sweets.

34. With each passing day you are growing more independent..."I do it self," escapes from your mouth often! 

35. You love to draw, doodle, and color...I just wish more of your artwork would make it's way onto paper and less on our walls and floors.  

36. Sweet Ryder, you will forever be "my boy"!  You bring a smile to my face and my love for you is never ending.  I hope your birthday is a magical one...full of joy, laughter, and love!  Happy 3rd Birthday!  I love you! 



Happy First Birthday, Hudson!

One year ago, on February 23rd at 12:51 pm, Eric and I welcomed our fourth son into our family...


Hudson Robert Lindsay
5lbs 14 oz, 18 1/2 inches

As a full year has passed, Hudson has brought endless joy, laughter, and smiles into all of our lives. 

 He is a fighter...

Born at 34 weeks gestation, Hudson was born a fighter.  At birth, he fought to breathe and struggled his first few days outside the womb.  Our little boy spent the first ten days of his life in the NICU and he fought.  He fought hard and surprised doctors, nurses, and his family with an earlier than expected release from the hospital.  In the days following, he continued to fight when he was re-admitted to the hospital to undergo IVIG treatment for low blood platelets.  Today, when I look at the brand new one year old in front of me I see a happy and healthy little boy!  We are truly blessed how far Hudson has come when we think about his beginning days.  Here at home, Hudson continues to fight.  As the youngest of four boys, he fights to ensure his voice is heard...loud and clear!  Our little lad has a set of lungs of him and makes his wishes well known!

He is the baby of the family....

 

Indeed, Hudson is the baby of our family...a role he delights in (and thankfully the older boys happily bestow upon him).  His new tricks never go un-noticed and are always applauded.  He is the recipient of lavish praise, endless hugs, and kisses galore.  His needs are met from family members all around.  I continually find myself saying aloud "You are the cutest thing ever!" and I truthfully mean it...just as I did when I spoke the same words to Parker, Garrett, and Ryder.  Eric and I continue to get up with Hudson each and every night.  Are his middle of the night feedings still deemed necessary?  More than likely, no.  He is our baby and we continue to act as such.  Sleep will come.  One day.  We hope!

 

He is happy...

Amen for a happy baby.  A baby who delights in baths...goldfish crackers...his older brothers...a silly daddy...and Scout the puppy.  Our Chunka Monka is one happy little boy.  Early on he had bouts with non-stop crying; however, his first year has had far more moments of pure delight.  His laugh is deep and hearty.  His smile is genuine and true!  Keep on smiling and laughing, dear Hudson.  Your joy warms the hearts of those around you!

He is laid back...



Hudson has the best disposition for that of a fourth child.  He is laid back.  Content.  Easy going.  With three outgoing older brothers, Hudson was often found lounging in the stroller at T-Ball practice.  Or playing on a blanket at soccer practice.  In the fall he was passed back and forth, again and again, by family members at flag football games.  Some of his best naps were taken outside.  On the beach.  At the park.  Or, his favorite...during a family outing on the boat.  He can be found happily eating and playing on school mornings while chaos erupts around him.  Thank you for going with the flow, my sweet boy.  Mama appreciates it!

He is A-D-O-R-A-B-L-E...

Good Lord, I find myself wanting to eat this little boy up!  His big. baby blues beg for attention.  His chubby cheeks call out to be kissed.  I nuzzle his neck and nibble on his toes.  Simply put, he is too cute for his own good!

He is a mama's boy...

 

Truth be told, Hudson takes to women over men.  Period.  He really loves his mama, though (yeah!!!).  I love that my little man loves to snuggle, read while sitting on my lap, eats best for me, and lights up when I walk in the room.  I know that (soon enough) Hudson will follow in his older brothers' footsteps and think that Daddy is the coolest.  And he his.  After all, he rides dirt bikes.  He builds super cool Lego sets.  He sucks helium from a balloon before singing Happy Birthday to you.  However, for now I will bask in the spotlight that is the all mighty, glorious, and loving mommy!


Happy 1st Birthday, Hudson!  We are beyond blessed by your presence in our family.  You make us laugh, smile, and fill our hearts with endless love.  It has been a pleasure to watch you develop from a tiny newborn into a toddler over the last twelve months.  You are, without a doubt, a perfect addition to our crazy family.  We look forward to the next year, watching you grow, continuing to love you, and wish you the happiest of toddler days!

Happy 7th Birthday, Parker

Thursday, February 12, 2004

I was admitted to the hospital, at 36 weeks gestation, to be induced (due to preeclampsia) with Eric and I's first child.  A son, whom we had decided months in advance, to name Parker Ryan.  My pitocin induced, 18 hours of back labor was unlike anything I have experienced to date.  After two hours of painstaking pushing, our first son was delivered via emergency c-section. 

On February 14, 2004 at 1:13am, Eric and I were presented with undoubtedly, the best Valentine's Day gift...a 7lb 3 oz, 20 1/2 inches long, dark haired baby boy.  He was beautiful.  He was perfect.  He resembled both his mommy and daddy as he still does today.  Eric and I quickly discovered a new love.  An overwhelming, heart wrenching love for our first born.

Today, we celebrate our first born's 7th birthday.  7 years old!!!

Dear Parker,

Happy 7th Birthday!  The past year with you has been nothing short of amazing...full of firsts, growth, and overwhelming pride! 

You continue to love school and excel in the classroom.  You take pleasure in learning and strive to do your very best.  Within our family, you live up to your nickname of Professor Parker.  Your memory is sharp as a tack and rivals that of your mama.  Your dad and I are honored to hear that you are a role model in the classroom.  I hope your enthusiasm to digest new and exciting information remains a strong force within you.

Your love for dirt bikes remains true; however, in the past year you have taken on new activities much to your traditional-sport-loving mama's delight.  It has been a joy to watch you on the field, in the wrestling room, on the diamond, and on the track.  Your quest for knowledge carries through in your extra-curricular activities as well.  Keep up the great work, buddy!

Who would have thought, 7 years ago, that you would now be an older brother to not one, not two, but three little brothers?  Certainly not your Dad and I!  Your brothers adore you.  Garrett is your right hand man, looks up to you, and dubs you his best friend.  You argue, you physically fight, and have been know to make each other cry.  However, your connection is unlike any other sibling relationship in the house (perhaps because you have been together the longest).  Ryder and Hudson take delight in your presence.  You make them laugh.  Often, you can be found laughing at them in return.  You are quick to greet them in the morning and bid them goodnight in the evenings.  I know for certain, there will come a time when you deem your younger brothers annoying and will want to carry on (at times) without them.  Humor me, please...don't always be too cool for them! 

The past year has certainly been one of firsts.  You have lost your first, second, and third tooth.  When you smile your new toothless grin, I no longer see the little boy you once were.  This past year has allowed you the opportunity to attend non-family sleepovers.  I will be honest, the nights you were away left me panic stricken.  However, you were more than eager to stray from us from time to time.  I am thankful for the friendships you have formed and the trustworthy parents we have come to know.  It is music to my ears to hear you are always on your very best behavior while under the supervision of others. 

Often, I find myself staring at you while you play, read, watch TV, and go through the motions of your day.  I see a younger version of your handsome daddy in front of me.  While pregnant with you, we learned that we would be having a sweet baby boy.  Instantly, I envisioned (and desired) a dark haired, blue eyed, son.  A son chiseled just like his daddy.  Much to my delight, I got my wish. 

Parker, I hope that age 7 is magical for you!  It is my wish that the next year brings you great joy, fun, and continued growth.  With each first that you encounter, it is my first as a mom as well.  I am so honored to play such a vital role in your journey through life.  Parker, I am so proud God chose me to be your mom.  My first 'lil dude, I love you today, tomorrow, and always!  I sincerely hope your birthday is as special as you are!

Love,
Mom 

It's My Birthday! I Can Do Whatever I Want!

Garrett's 5th Birthday has come and gone and as of 4:16pm yesterday he is 5 years old!!!  I am still shaking my head in disbelief.  Yesterday, our celebration was low-key as his party is a few weekends away and most of our extended family is sick.

The birthday boy requested pancakes and sausage for breakfast (as they all do) and was happily served the first pancakes off the griddle.  I heard him proclaim (often) throughout the day, "It's my birthday!  I can do whatever I want!".  Gotta love him!

For the second year in a row, we went sledding on the night of Garrett's birthday.  The boys (ahem, and us!) just love this form of cheap entertainment!  Eric did not get home from work as soon as we had hoped, so mama did not get many stellar photos (it was dark!).  Here is our birthday boy before heading off down the hill, though!

Upon returning home from sledding we enjoyed some pizza (the birthday boy's request), cake, and ice cream.  He wanted a dirt bike cake and this mama does not do cakes.  He was more than pleased with the cake I had made featuring a dirt trail.  We added a Lego dirt bike atop the cake and it was pure perfection!

Sure thing, a second dirt bike was added to the cake as well...FYI that is Garrett riding in front of Parker!  It is his birthday after all.  Do you notice that he now has two missing teeth?  The tooth fairy came (again) on his birthday! 

Make a wish...

He opened up his gifts from us as well.  I think the expression on his face says it all...he was pretty stoked about receiving his own DS (and no longer having to share Parker's!).

Love you, Garrett!  I hope your birthday was as special as you are!

Happy 2nd Birthday, Ryder!

Two years ago, Eric and I welcomed this beautiful little boy into our loving arms...

Ryder Richard
May 12, 2008
1:56pm
7lbs 11 oz 20 inches

Ryder, it has been an exciting year! Before our eyes you have shifted from baby to toddler. Your personality continues to emerge and my love for you grows each day. At age two...

You are delightful...

Earlier this year, as Parker entered full day Kindergarten and Garrett began preschool, I found myself having more one on one time with you. Together, we enjoyed many breakfasts (my first and your second). We could also be found on the couch cuddling or out on a walk around the neighborhood. On numerous occasions you accompanied your daddy as he ran errands on these mornings as well. You found happiness in these little moments and times of togetherness. I can assure you the feeling was mutual. I am thankful each of us got an opportunity for some quality time with you prior to Hudson's arrival.

You are a lover of God's creatures...

Throughout the year, you have become a fan of all things with fur and/or tails. Our annual trip to the pumpkin patch resulted in you chasing around cats versus choosing a pumpkin. You pursue Mammy's dogs and cats when visiting her house. Aunt Wesilee's kitty, Sis, brings a smile to your face. You spring into the air with great enthusiasm in an attempt to reach the birds above. You have perfected your animal sounds and greet creatures around you in their native tongue. In due time you shall have a pet of your own (or, at least one to share with your siblings); however, right now mommy and daddy know they have little time to care for one of God's creatures.

You are dramatic...

Oh, the drama of it all. You have perfected the art of eye rolling at an early age. You throw your hands up in disgust and have been known to throw yourself to the floor. You can draw out your bottom lip at just the right time. You shield your face with your hands when dealing with the shear horror of being told ''no''. How dare we? You exaggerate the words ''Ewwwww...'' and ''Yuck!'' by pulling your mouth to one side. At times, I cannot help but laugh at your antics. After all, being a toddler does not always have its' perks.

You are mama's mini me...

Big brown eyes. All or nothing. Sweet, yet sassy. Early riser. Wild hair. Tea drinker and lover of all things carbs. High energy. Talkative. Strong and muscular. Head strong. Connoisseur of chocolate. Appreciative. Together, you and I not only share physical traits, but numerous personality traits as well. God may not have blessed me with a daughter; however, my spirit unmistakably lives on within you.

You are entertaining...

Oh, the number of times I find myself laughing at you as we go about our day! Often, I smile as I notice the skip in your step. You find happiness in dressing and undressing yourself again and again. Your ensembles consist of items from each family member...a sock of Hudson's (tightly pulled over half of your toes), underwear compliments of Garrett (hanging off your tush), shorts from Parker (inside out, of course), two fuzzy, striped socks from mama (pulled up to your thighs), and a Schiets Motors shirt that belongs to daddy (it skims the floor as you walk). No outfit is complete without a pair of sunglasses or hat.

Dancing appears to come naturally to you and you are passionate about it. I find you imitating not only the moves displayed by your brothers, but of the stars on Dancing With the Stars and the contestants of So You Think You Can Dance. Keep on dancing, little Ryder!

You are a big brother...

As of February, you are no longer just a little brother. With the birth of Hudson you became a big brother as well. Truthfully, it was not a role I believed you would embrace with ease. It was merely weeks prior to Hudson's arrival that you surrendered your bottle. Again, it had been only weeks prior that you remained in our bedroom throughout the night. The complications surrounding my pregnancy and Hudson's birth brought about numerous changes in our day to day lives. These changes were trying on all of us; however, as the youngest you namely.

Yet, you relinquished your role as baby of the family effortlessly. You happily greet Hudson each morning when he awakes. A big smile consumes your face when you hold him. He has earned the nick name ''Hudsey'' per you. On occasion I have to remind you to ''be gentle with your love for Hudsey"; however, more often than not you are tender towards him. I look forward to watching your relationship with Hudson blossom over the years.

You are beautiful...

Yes, you are a boy; therefore, it may be considered politically incorrect for me to refer to you as beautiful. However, I will concur with those who regard you as beautiful. Your big brown eyes draw in those around you. Your (at times devilish) smile lights up a room. Your lone dimple is absolutely delightful. You have lavish locks that some girls desire (ahem, or dad).

Indeed, your inner beauty matches that found on the outside. When someone draws you in close and rubs your back, you in return do the same. Should someone cry out in pain you rush to their side, offering a hug. You are quick to let me know when Baby Hudsey is crying. I would like to believe it is out of love for you brother, and not that you are simply annoyed. You are joyful and appreciative when someone presents you with a gift, whether it be small or large. Little dude, I hope your inner beauty continues to shine as you grow.


Happy 2nd Birthday, Ryder. My little dude. You have touched my heart in ways you will never know! I love you!!!!

Love, Mama