Afternoon Treats

Mary Ella had done well on her report card, so we went for a tasty treat after school. Mary Ella and Addy chose blizzards and because of Molly's milk intolerance I chose a red, yes RED, slushy for her to drink. Despite enjoying the sugary RED slushy, she continued to stalk her sister's ice cream. Of course, one can always count on Addy spilling a portion of hers and Molly siezed the opportunity to have some of that "forbidden fruit". Disclaimer: after taking her picture, I did make her stop :). Believe it or not, this warm day was only a few days after that huge snow. Only in Texas....

Snow Day

On February 12th, Tyler received the largest snowfall in 26 years....6-7 inches! We awoke to pure beauty and enjoyed some outdoor fun. It honestly didn't last too long as us Southerners are not very equipped when it comes to this kind of weather. The kids stayed out, did their thing, and they came in to thaw their cold, wet hands/feet. Fortunately, we were already out of school so we just enjoyed the day.

The Day to Day

I'm not even sure where to start or wrap-up. Life with these three girls is never boring. I swear there are days they go through three outfits, we have dress-up stuff spread from one end of this house to another, countless mis-matched Barbie shoes that "accidently" get sucked up by the vacuum cleaner, and at one point or another I'm mending something that had fallen victim to all our rowdiness. We have friends coming in and out, cheerleading, gymnastics, choir....and my friends, I am coming to realize that when all three are involved in things, there will have to be limits. In all this comes much laughter, much drama, and some tears but all in all we are doing great. I think Mary Ella put it best when she said, "Mom, riding in your car is like trying to ride a bull"...better hold on for the ride. Now in my defense, I do drive a "bus" with slick seating :). Below are pictures from many of our different "moments".

Update on mom

Several people have asked how my mom, Cynthia Maedgen, is doing so I thought I'd give a quick update. First, she and the rest of our family have really appreciated all the thoughts and prayers that have been lifted up on her behalf. Unfortunately, the first round of treatment was not successful in that her scans revealed more cancer in her liver. The doctor at MD Anderson indicated that they probably could achieve remission if quick action was taken. As a result, she immediately started chemotherapy and has been doing that for 3-4 weeks. The fabulous news is that she feels much better on this treatment and the pain she has had from the liver tumors has pretty much resolved. We are hoping this is a good indicator that the chemo is working. She is not due for more scans until mid-March, but they are taking bloodwork which can give us a much earlier indication if this method of treatment is working. Again, we appreciate all the prayers and would appreciate more, of course, as she continues on to battle this horrible disease. Unfortunately my mom is one of MANY who are fighting cancer. We pray continuously that God would lead the charge and impart knowledge and wisdom to those who are researching for cures. Much love to all and thank you!

All Aboarrrrrdddd!

Oh yes! We did it again...The Polar Express! This is truly one of the most joyous, fun-filled times we have as a family. Scott and I soak in the joy and wonder that our girls ooze during our train ride to the North Pole.

Molly clapped and danced while Addy waited patiently to give Santa that giant "hug" she'd been talking about for weeks. Mary Ella sat, clutching her book with excitement hoping to get Santa's autograph this time around.

All the girls were gazing at the North Pole as Santa and his elves boarded the train

They are eagerly looking down the train cars to get a glimpse of Santa!

Addy ran to give Santa his special "hug"....what a sweet and BRAVE girl!!!!

We listened to carols and ringing sleigh bells all the way back home. In the end all goals were accomplished from hugs to autographs. Such great memories we make during the special outings.

Christmas program

Upon returning from our Thanksgiving trip, we quickly got ready for Mary Ella's Christmas program at church. We dolled her all up and went to Marvin UMC to listen to little children sing and talk us through the birth of our Savior. You can imagine though...taking two toddlers to watch this performance after days on the road. Before the program even began, Molly was wiggling and yelping at each attempt to restrain her from running through the pews and aisles. After multiple attempts to keep her still and engage her in the performance I handed the camera to Scott and took her outside where she proceeded to yell, "YAY!!!!" and clap after each song and speaking part was completed. Therefore, I moved on to the "cry room" where I watched a live feed and Molly happily toddled around free. Ahhhh, the life of a two year old :). The program was completed and all the kids did fabulous. We went on for hot chocolate (aka evening caffiene for children) and cookies (aka sugar high inducing drug) when Addy kept telling me she was cold. We quickly wrapped up, got home and realized Addy was officially sick with a fever. It seems like everytime we come home from a trip, we have one or more kiddos come down with something. The trips are still worth it and the circumstances do not take away from the fact that Mary Ella and all her friends delivered a beautiful reminder that evening. In that respect, it was the best start to Advent ever!

Thanksgiving

We spent Thanksgiving at the Maedgen Farm (my mom's) in Pfleugerville, Tx. For those unfamiliar, it is near Brenham, TX. The kids spent much of the time running free around the great outdoors, feeding cows and riding in this bright orange car (much to Scott's dismay). Unfortunately because I am busy chasing kids, it does not afford me much opportunity to take many pictures. My mom hosted a beautiful Thanksgiving dinner with a beautifully set table as always. She refuses to use anything but china and crystal for her holiday tables, so you can imagine what it is like to clean up after 20+ guests. It was all worth it. We enjoyed the company of grandparents, aunts/uncles, cousins, siblings and parents. You combine that with good food and you just can't beat it! What a blessed time it was for all of us. You will find a few pics below. There are many more posted on facebook courtesy of my brother :)

Addy preferred to stay in the mule and watch the fun at a distance....don't blame her, really.

Addy became a little more brave the second time around, with her sister's encouragement

Need I say more??? Molly Kate is wild and crazy out on the prairie!