The McCaffertys

Double Decker

2011-05-15T17:08:00.000-05:00

A few weekends ago we headed to Oxford for Double Decker. I love it! I get so excited each year about going. I love looking at all the beautiful creations people have for sell, sampling all the wonderful food from the local restaurants that set up around the courthouse & of course the great music you get to enjoy all day. I also always see several friends from college that return to the festival each year. It is wonderful to catch up and see how much our lives have changed since attending it while in college.

Ruthie really enjoyed it this year as well. Well, not so much of any of the above, but the kid's fair was a HUGE hit! She bounced so quickly from bouncy house to bouncy house that I didn't even get any pics.

She was excited about the free balloon as well

Maggie did this the entire day!

Let me tell you, the story time singing lady was a major hit! I need her to come to my house each week and do a show. Ruthie was so into her. All of her songs had you act out different things. Ruthie never missed a beat. She loves music and dancing, so this was the greatest thing ever for her.

She even got her to lay down during the day without it being an accident. Ha ha!

We had a great day spent with family. I am already looking forward to it next year!!

Super Star!!

2011-05-15T16:45:00.000-05:00

Recently Ruthie has really been into performing on stage. Anything that is even the slightest bit elevated she stands on and sings to the top of her lungs. The new double stroller box made the perfect stage. She was up there forever. I think she sang every song she knew. Notice her hand as the microphone. She must have decided to improvise that day. I can't tell you how many times I have had to clean out the entire toy box to find the microphone!

Easter Sunday

2011-05-09T15:05:00.000-05:00

Easter Sunday was a busy, but special day spent with family. We woke up to find that the Easter bunny had been to our house. I have to edit the video and put it on here because Ruthie was hilarious. We were telling her to go to the living room because the Easter Bunny came. She turned and whimpered "I don't want to see the Easter Bunny" We had to explain that he wasn't here anymore. Her reaction was too funny.

The "loot"

After checking out what he brought, we all got dressed and headed to church. It was Maggie's first time to go. We were in such a mad dash out the door that I didn't get a picture of the girls dressed with their baskets. Oh well, there is always next year.

After church, we went to JoJo and Papa's for lunch and an egg hunt. The food was wonderful and Ruthie had a blast hunting eggs. She and Maggie also got a basket full of goodies there as well.

Once the hunt was done, we headed to Mamaw Louies house for Easter with the Whitleys. Ruthie and Maggie were again showered with goodies. We loved getting to spend time with loved ones and we are all so blessed to have so many people who love us. After opening the big eggs, we headed outside to hunt eggs with Webb and Ava. Ruthie had a little bit of an advantage this year, seeing she is the only one that can walk. However, next year she better have her hunting skills sharpened because they are going to give her a run for her money.

We finished up the day with dinner at Pop E and Nana's. The Easter Bunny visited there as well. It was almost as if we were having Christmas by the looks of our truck at the end of the night. Two very blessed little girls I tell ya. The big hit was the bunny cakes that Pop E and Nana made for each of the girls. They were too cute and delicious

Easter Eggs

2011-05-04T16:50:00.000-05:00

The Wednesday before Easter we had the Easter egg hunt at church. Ruthie had been talking for days about going to find eggs and put them in her basket. She was so excited about it!

The girls dressed and ready to head to the hunt

Because of rain that week, the hunt had to be moved indoors. Because it is only for preschool and under they aren't really hid anyway, so they didn't care.

Ruthie counting her loot with Mamaw Beth. She found lots of candy and 3 prize eggs. I would call that a successful hunt

After the hunt, we enjoyed hot dogs, cheese puffs, juice boxes and cupcakes! Everyone had a great time.

On Saturday, we dyed our eggs. I had bought the egg dying kit a few weeks before and Ruthie had been wanting to "play that game" ever since. She had a blast helping Dustin dye them. She would pick what color and he would do the actual dying of the egg

Blowing them dry so they can decorate them

Coloring and putting stickers on her eggs

She had a blast and so did Dustin and I. We are so blessed to be able to have these wonderful moments that will too soon become wonderful memories.

Grove Bowl

2011-05-03T17:17:00.000-05:00

A couple of weeks after Maggie was born, we had a major case of cabin fever! So, we loaded up and headed over to Oxford for the day for the annual Grove Bowl. Ruthie and I both were in desperate need of time spent out of the house. We knew she would love all the bouncy houses that they have in the Grove for the kids to play on

Ruthie and Lori are excited about being in the Grove!!

Ruthie is such a dare devil. She climbed to top and down she went. All by herself. Over and over!!!

She talked Kaylee into joining her

Maggie spent the day sleeping in the stroller

Ruthie doing Hotty Toddy at the podium for us

Always on the phone!

We had a GREAT day! Maggie, Nana, and I didn't make it to the game. We did meet up with Papa, JoJo, Lori, Kaylee & Ruthie after the game for some dinner at Ajax. I think Maggie enjoyed her first of many trips to Oxford. I know the rest of us sure did!!!

Welcome Maggie!!

2011-05-03T16:22:00.000-05:00

Maggie Louise McCafferty was born April 4 weighing in at 8lbs 3oz and 19" We are so blessed to have another sweet baby girl. Ruthie is a proud big sister and has handled it much better than I had anticipated. Don't get me wrong, there have been some moments, but overall it has went pretty smooth.

Dustin bringing Maggie out for everyone to meet her

Ruthie meeting her baby sister

Getting ready to head home! Ruthie is wearing her dance outfit because she had just came from "flip" class.

We are at home and doing great!

Busy Busy Busy

2011-05-03T11:16:00.000-05:00

I must admit I have failed miserably at blogging in the last several months. I blame it on having a 2 year old, being pregnant and building a house. It has kept me a little busy with no time to sit at the computer long enough to put a post together. I have started several, but never finished. I am going to try to do much better. I want the record for myself and could just choke myself for slacking so bad. I make no promises though. I now have a newborn, a 2 1/2 year old and am finishing up a house. Fingers crossed for posts to come.

Opryland Hotel Trip

2010-12-06T09:06:00.033-06:00

The first weekend in December we headed to the Opryland Hotel for the weekend. It was a family affair. JoJo,Papa, Mamaw Beth, Aunt Lori, Kaylee, Pop E and Nana all came along for the fun. We were excited to see the Radio City Rockettes. I knew Ruthie would love it because I taped it last Christmas on PBS and she watched it all time.

I had planned on getting my Christmas card picture since we were among so much beautiful decor. However, my little princess was in a mood that weekend. Every time you tried to take her picture, she would hide her face and say "I not get my picture made" Needless to say, I was disappointed because there were sooooo many photo ops

The best we got. Also, the first time we attempted posed pictures. After this, it was no way!

She did enjoy scooting down the staircase on her bottom

If you have ever met my child, you know she LOVES to ride a train. I have no idea what it is about them, but they are the most fun to her. In the above photo, she is waiting in line to ride it, that is why she tolerated me pointing the camera in her direction!

So excited to be on the train!

This picture is so funny to me. It pretty much sums up our picture attempts for the weekend!

However, even though the picture taking was not a success, the Rockettes definitely were! She sat so still and watched every move they made. I can't wait to take her one day to NYC to see the show at Radio City Hall. I think that will be a few years down the road though. It was a great weekend get-a-way.

Trick or Treat!

2010-11-09T10:59:00.000-06:00

Ruthie was really into trick or treating this year. She was amazed the first time someone put candy in her bucket. After that, she couldn't get to the next spot fast enough.

We started off our trick or treating at the Spirit of Ripley Festival the Thursday night before Halloween. She got to go from tent to tent and get candy. It was so funny how excited she got every time someone gave her some candy.

On Sunday we started out by stopping at Pop E and Nana's house. She loaded up as usual.

From there, we headed to Booneville to Mamaw Louie's house to trick or treat with her, PawPaw, Granna, Aunt Britney, Uncle Derek, Aunt Misty and Webb

Ruthie the kitty and Webb the elephant

More surprises!

We finished the night up at Trunk or Treat and Fall Festival at our church. They were all so cute and everyone who participated did a great job decorating their trunks and gave out wonderful candy as well

Look how full that bucket is!! That is just from Trunk or Treat. We had cleaned it out before we got there.

Needless to say, Ruthie had a wonderful experience Trick or Treating and all the candy she got is going to be the death of all of us!

Costume Day at "Flip Class"

2010-11-09T10:25:00.000-06:00

Ruthie loves her gym tots class which she call "flip class". The week of Halloween Mrs Kari had the girls wear their costumes to class. They were adorable!!. It was hard to get a group picture of them all looking at the camera at the same time, but here was my best take.

Stretching

This is Ruthie's favorite activity! She does it constantly at home. They do the Humpty Dumpty nursery rhyme as they rock and back and forth and then they fall, which is Ruthie's favorite part

Skipping

Just hanging around!

Pumpkin Patch

2010-11-09T10:07:00.000-06:00

It isn't really fall until you go to the pumpkin patch and pick out your own pumpkin. So, a few weeks ago, that is exactly what we did. Ruthie had a great time checking out everything they had of offer. She rode a train, pumped a well for water, and ran all over the place.

Enjoying a little time playing on the bounce house and slide

On the wagon with Aunt Lori and Kaylee headed out to the patch

Family shot on the way to the patch

Before we could get there, we had to stop by the petting zoo for a minute

Headed out to get her pumpkin

Searching for the perfect one

Found it!!!

We had a great time and it was really fun to watch how excited she was about everything this year!

Fall Festival

2010-11-09T09:37:00.000-06:00

We spent a beautiful Saturday at the Fall Festival in Booneville. We enjoyed looking at all the crafts and goodies for sale and then headed over to the carnival section with was a big hit with Ruthie.

She was convinced that she was making the car go!

Then, she wanted to ride the tilt or whirl with Kaylee and Kerrigan. I thought she would start screaming when it started up and they would have to stop the ride to let her off. Boy was I wrong. She absolutely LOVED it!!! So much so that they had to ride it twice

Really excited about riding!!

Bye Bye! We had a wonderful day!!

Yo Gabba Gabba Birthday Extravaganza

2010-11-09T09:21:00.000-06:00

We celebrated Ruthie's 2nd birthday with a Yo Gabba Gabba party on Oct 9. She had so much fun with the other kids playing and partying it up. We had a wonderful time as well.

The cake!! I thought it turned out so cute!

In the jump house with Brenley. We spent lots of time jumping!!

More jumping!!

Lunch time!!

Yummy! Cake and ice cream!!!

Lots and lots of presents to open!!

Showing off her jewelry and high heels she got

I think Ruthie's 2nd birthday party was a huge success!! It was a hot and long day, but the smiles on her face and the other children made all that fade away.

Birthday Party in the Grove

2010-10-11T15:45:00.000-05:00

Ruthie's birthday was the Sunday of the weekend that Ole Miss played Fresno State at home. We were not having her official party until a couple more weeks, so we had a mini party in the Grove!

Her very cute and very tasty cake from Sugaree's

Her Nana got her Colonel Reb cookies from Emileigh's

Loving on her new baby that JoJo and Papa gave her

Hanging out with the big kids

Blowing out her candles for the first of about 7 times!!!

She had such a fun time and we did too!! The Rebels even managed to pull out a win for us to make it even better!

Tumbling Class

2010-10-11T12:46:00.000-05:00

Ruthie started Gym Tots or "flip class" as she calls it a few weeks ago. She LOVES it!!! Here are some pictures from her first day. Please excuse the quality, they are from my phone

Football Season is Here!!

2010-10-11T11:11:00.000-05:00

Labor Day weekend we kicked off football season in Oxford!! I love this time of year!!! Ruthie is really into the Grove and game this year as well.

Playing frisbee with Kaylee and Hunter

Webb made his first appearance in the Grove!!

She absolutely LOVED the pep rally. She was mesmerized by it all.

The game was not worth discussing, but we had a wonderful time with family and friends!!

Beach Trip 2010

2010-10-11T10:47:00.000-05:00

In late August we took a last minute trip with Dustin's parents to Destin. It was a perfect time to go. We had the run of the place.

Ruthie and Dustin about to head to the beach on the first day

Notice how she is sitting on the sheet and leaning over to get the sand? She hates anything on her hands. When we are outside she is constantly having me wipe them off. It actually took her a little while to make this stride toward the sand.

So as you can imagine, this absolutely shocked me! She warmed up quickly to playing in the sand

The kiddie pool was also a BIG hit. She loved it. She would just roll all over it

Applying a little lotion to Pop E's face before bed

We went to play putt putt golf one night. Ruthie spent the entire time chasing every one's ball as they hit it. Needless to say, we weren't able to keep score.

Building sand castles with Daddy

Her absolute favorite part of the trip was riding the train at the Track. She asked every night as we drove by it to go eat. We promised her that we would take her and we kept our promise. We had to ride it twice. She would have rode it many more times, but we cut her off. She is still talking about riding the train to this day!

Taking a boat ride in the kiddie pool!

We had a wonderful time! I wish we could have stayed longer. I am already looking forward to next summer's trip to the beach!!

BEWARE!!

2010-10-11T09:39:00.000-05:00

I have majorly slacked in the blogging department over the last 6 weeks or so. I just want to put a warning out there that there may be post overload over the next few days. I am going to try really hard to sit down and get caught up!! Let's just hope Ruthie is on board with this plan.

Meet the Rebels

2010-09-01T10:04:00.004-05:00

Last Saturday we headed over to Oxford for Meet the Rebels 2010.

Ruthie insisted on wearing her DJ Lance Rock glasses to the event. I couldn't talk her out of it, so there you go. She got a few looks and giggles from stangers as we passed by them

She did take them off long enough for Webb to try them on though. I don't think he likes them as much as she does because he didn't fuss one bit when we took them off and gave them back to Ruthie.

Running wild as usual

Dustin and I had to get our picture made with Webb and his football jersey that we got him. I bought this the week Misty and Derek found out they were having a boy. His name had not been decided at that point & Devaughn would not fit, so we went with Devo.

Ruthie getting her football signed by Coach Nutt

Webb and Coach Nutt

I couldn't believe he took him. I was going to just hold him up beside him to get a picture, but Coach Nutt reached out and got him. He was a little uncomfortable though. He asked for help with the neck support. haha!

We had a great time and just made us even more anxious for football season to start.

Hotty Toddy!

4th of July Weekend

2010-07-12T14:03:00.006-05:00

We had a wonderful 4th of July weekend! We started it off with the parade on Saturday morning. My sister Lori lives in the neighborhood of the parade and it has been a tradition of ours since Kaylee was a baby. It was a little sad this year to not have Kaylee there. She was on vacation with her dad. Ruthie was much more into this year than last. We had a great time participating and the fellowship with friends and family afterwards in Lori's front yard.

Our float

Getting a little coke from Papa before the parade. She knows who to go to in order to get these type of things

Heading out to line up. She was so excited!!

Waving at the "paparazzi" in Lori's yard. There must have been 15 cameras flashing as we came by. She is one blessed little girl

She ate 5 suckers during the parade!

Can I get a "whoop whoop"? Her Aunt Lori taught her this new trick

After the parade, we headed to the cabin for some fun on the lake. Lori, Whitley and Steven came out and played with us.

Ruthie took a ride with them on the tube

Waving at us on the boat

They didn't get to ride full speed again after Ruthie got on with them, because she wasn't getting off until everyone else did

On Sunday we had even more fun on the water. Ruthie had too much fun swimming in the lake and had to catch a nap in her pool from last year. What a difference a year makes! She can't even fit in the thing anymore

Snoozing away

That afternoon we had a cabin full of friends and family. We cooked out, shot fireworks and had so much fun!

Ruthie got Papa in the pool with her

She LOVED the chicken wings that JoJo brought

It was a fabulous weekend spent with fabulous people!

VBS!!!

2010-07-12T13:47:00.003-05:00

A few weeks ago we had VBS at our church. I took Ruthie every night even though there wasn't technically a class for her age. She loved watching all the children and participated in the crafts, music, and eating sessions. She wasn't much on sitting still for story time. The theme this year was "Road Trip" Each night they had a different theme to dress up in based upon where they were going that night. I, of course, only have pictures from one night. It was western night.

My little cowgirl

Carson offering his hat to Ruthie

She loved to dance along to the theme song

We are still performing this number. She is trying to do her hands to say Route 254. The basis of this year's theme was Psalms 2:54.

We had so much fun all week long and are very appreciative to all those that made it such a wonderful experience!

Father's Day Weekend

2010-07-12T13:18:00.004-05:00

Dustin wanted to go to the cabin for Father's Day weekend, so that is exactly what we did. We have so much fun when we are there. Ruthie loves the water, being outside from sun up until sun down, and of course all the attention she gets. Dustin loves a lot of the same things about it plus he gets to grill almost every meal. I mean it is like heaven for him. That boy loves a grill and we love everything he prepares on it. We went out on Friday afternoon so that we could have all day Saturday to enjoy!

Ruthie taking a swing break

The picture below deserves a little explaining. We were all inside and I went out to check on Ruthie and Dustin and this is what I found. I asked him why he was in the pool and his answer was "she wanted me to get in" Ruthie definitely has her Daddy exactly where she wants him and he wouldn't have it any other way!

Aunt Lori and Kaylee stopped by for a little fun on the lake. Ruthie loves when we stop for swim breaks

Enjoying the water with Kaylee and Aunt Lori

Too much fun in the water equals a nap on sweet Kaylee

So relaxed!

For some reason, I have no pictures from Sunday. The day that we were there to celebrate. I am sad. Ruthie and I got up that morning and went to church at Mt Pisgah with my dad. We went back over to his house for a little while before heading back to the cabin. There was a photo shoot, but I had left my camera at the cabin. I will have to get copies. We had lunch with Dustin and Pop E before loading up and heading back home. It was a wonderful weekend in honor of a wonderful father!

Playing Catch Up

2010-07-12T13:17:00.001-05:00

I am working on posts from the last month of our life. It has been super busy, so the blog has been neglected. I hope to have it all up to date within the next day or so

Swim Lesson Update

2010-06-10T09:08:00.002-05:00

Ruthie is doing great with swim lessons. Yesterday we took her swim baby with us to join in on the last part of the lesson. She LOVED it!

Birthdays, Birthdays, & More Birthdays

2010-06-07T09:42:00.004-05:00

Last week was filled with birthdays. Pop E's birthday was on Wednesday, Nana's on Friday and Aunt Lori's on Saturday.I am so disappointed that the camera for some reason didn't make it to all the events.

We started the celebrations on Wednesday afternoon with a party for Nana for just the girls at Mrs Beverly's house. It was luau themed in honor of Nana's love of flamingos. We had the best time!

Ruthie trying to put on Nana's new flip flops

Nana with her strawberry Sugaree's cake Yummy!

the girls

Ruthie put her lei on one of the flamingos, so Mrs Beverly went inside at got the rest so that all of them could have one. They had the best time putting them on

Then they took them all off and as they did, Ruthie put them on

That night we went over to Pop E and Nana's for a cookout to celebrate Pop E's big day

I am sorry to say that is far as the camera made it, but no where close to the celebrations ending. On Thursday night, we headed to Tupelo to eat at Fairpark Grill for Aunt Lori's birthday. We enjoyed a wonderful meal with Papa, JoJo, Mamaw Beth, Lori and Kaylee. Ruthie was the entertainment as always

Friday was Nana's actual birthday so we had McAlister's carryout at their house on Friday afternoon with Pop E, Nana and Uncle Drew.

Saturday was Aunt Lori's day! She and Whitley came over and we enjoyed a little time in the pool with them.

We had a GREAT time celebrating the birthdays of some of the most dearest people in our lives!

Happy Birthday Pop E, Nana & Aunt Lori!!

Memorial Day Weekend!

2010-06-03T09:55:00.005-05:00

We spent Memorial Day weekend at the cabin and had a fabulous time. Boat rides, kiddie pools, family & friends, and TONS of food! When we blew the pool up on Saturday Ruthie was so excited. She was jumping all over it and sliding and having a grand ole time. However, once we put the water in she wasn't sure about it. So, to get her into the fun her Daddy and Pop E joined her for a bit.

I think the pool was a little small for all 3 of them

Trying out the slide with water in it

Ok I decided this is really FUN!

Once she warmed up to it, she LOVED it. She played forever all by herself. Just splashing and carrying on

She always had to help drive the boat at some point during each outing. She thought she was so big. Pop E of course didn't mind having a co-captain

Riding the boat with Aunt Lori and Kaylee

She got Kaylee in the pool with her on Sunday. She absolutely loved having a playmate in there with her.

Giving the dolphin some love

"I don't know where Aunt Lori is"

"There she is, I must run as fast as I can to her"

Happy Memorial Day!

I hope everyone had as wonderful of a weekend as we did!

Summer Weather is Here!!

2010-05-24T09:10:00.005-05:00

Yesterday was definitely a summer day! It was sweltering!! We had our annual decoration day at the cemetery yesterday morning. It amazes me that this tradition is still going strong. I grew up across from the cemetery and have spent tons of time there. My family works so hard each year to get it ready for decoration day. As a child, I remember being there almost everyday the week leading up to it. Helping my Mamaw get her family's graves ready, marking veterans graves with flags, picking up limbs and old flowers that had blown off of graves and whatever else that needed to be done. The youth of our church now dedicate their time each year to helping with this. It is quite a task to find all the graves of veterans, but they make sure each one has a flag placed on it. The English family, which my is my mother's maiden name donated the land years ago and continue to run it to this day. All of my mother's side of the family that have passed are buried there. Including my Mamaw's parents as well.

This is the description of decoration day that is listed in the program each year.

"Memorial or Decoration Day in the South began as citizens became aware that the graves of the Civil War soldiers were being neglected. The Jumpertown Cemetery was established in 1852. Billie Yeates, who came to this community from Ponotoc County, bought the land from Jimmy Jumper who was a large landowner and started building a house where Miss Mary & Miss Annie English lived. Before he finished the home, his two year old daughter Sarah F. Yeates died and was buried in the cemetery. Later the land was sold to the English family who donated this and the other land to the cemetery. The late Bob Satterfield founded and organized a Homecoming/Decoration Day to be held each fourth Sunday in May. There are several Civil War soldiers buried in the cemetery. The tradition of memorial services under the trees and "dinner on the ground" continues today."

Ruthie showing Mamaw her sunglasses
Ruthie was burning up!!!

This could be because of the fact that was so much outdoor space to explore. She ran the entire time we were there, including during the eating portion. She would get a bite and run until she needed another. Needless to say, we were all very sweaty and exhausted by the time we left.

Everyone lined up for lunch

After all the sweating, eating, and fellowship, we decided to cool down with a relaxing afternoon at the pool with Pop E and Nana. It was our first time in the pool this season!!

Ruthie wasn't sure at first if she wanted to go in or not

It did not take her long at all to decide she liked it

She requested her shades since the sun was so bright

Having fun with Daddy

Thinking about going back in

She couldn't wait to try out her new turtle float ( that I ran to Wal Mart and bought because she had outgrown all of last years pool toys)

She also got this new boat that Pop E pushed her around in. She looked so relaxed.

Testing the turtle in the water

We finished up with grilled hamburgers and hot dogs. It was officially a Summer Day! I love this time of year!!

Our Little Flower Girl

2010-04-19T09:10:00.007-05:00

This past Saturday Ruthie made her debut as a flower girl in Madeline and Charlie's wedding. We started the day out early by getting her hair rolled by JoJo. The booster seat helped out tremendously. Mother is usually have to chase her all over the place to get them in.

Enjoying a little time in the sun while her hair dries

Nana and JoJo went with us to the church early for pictures to help get Ruthie ready and to help me keep my sanity. haha

All dressed and ready to go strike a pose for photos

Playing outside Paris Yates Chapel

Showing out for the big girls

Taking a little rest

I loved these picture of her in the window. JoJo sat her up there just to see and I think they turned out so good

Ruthie did as well as I think any 18 month old flower girl would do. We placed Pop E down front so that she could see him because we all know she runs to him every time he is near. Right before she was suppose to go down I was trying to give her the flowers she was suppose to carry. She didn't want to take them. I kept telling her she had to take them to Pop E in a minute. When her time came to go she went running down after the ring bearer. She got half way and turned around and came back to me. I pointed to Pop E and she took off again. She made it halfway once again and came back. I was about to scoop her up and forget it, but she just wanted her flowers. She remembered she was suppose to take them to him. So, she got her flowers and off she went. This time all the way down!! Yay! The wedding was gorgeous! Thank you Madeline and Charlie for letting us share in your very special day!

Blowing kisses with Pop E to the bridal party on the double decker bus

The reception was so much fun! It was beautiful, food was great & the band was wonderful. We all enjoyed ourselves so much. Ruthie especially liked the dance floor and candy bar

Dancing with Pop E

Telling Connor all about it. He was the ring bearer in the wedding. She liked him much more than he did her. haha! By the end of the night he had warmed up to her though. Ruthie tends to be a little too much sometimes for other children. She never meets a stranger & wants to be all up in your business right from the get go

Fun at the Zoo

2010-04-12T14:15:00.004-05:00

This past weekend we took advantage of the beautiful weather and went to the zoo. Ruthie loved it. She was really into to looking at all the animals. I think she enjoyed the people watching just as much though. We all had a great time!

Showing JoJo the "kitty kitty's"

Ruthie and Daddy checking out the chick chick's

Playing on the playground with Kaylee

Swim Lessons

2010-04-12T13:29:00.003-05:00

Last week Ruthie started her ISR swim classes again. It is survival swim and I am amazed and what they can do with children. Last year she learned to roll to float until someone could get to her. This year she is starting to learn to actually swim to find the bar to get out of the pool. The video below is her accomplishments. This is on day 4 of lessons. I am so proud of her and can't wait to see what all she learns this year. I am sure more videos will make the blog as she makes more progress

Easter 2010

2010-04-12T11:14:00.008-05:00

We had a wonderful Easter. I love Easter Sunday for so many reasons. The main reason being that is a reminder of the sacrifice that Christ made for us. Easter service is always such a blessing. Other things that I look forward to about Easter is seeing everyone dressed in their best duds, little girls with frilly dresses and big hair bows, little boys with smocked jon jons and knee socks, time spent with family, Easter baskets filled with goodies, and egg hunts. This year we had lots of all of the above. Ruthie is at such a fun age. It is so heart warming to see her so excited about every little thing!

We woke up Easter morning to see what all the Easter bunny had brought. Ruthie went through every item several times. She had to show us each thing as she took it out.

Checking out what the Easter Bunny brought

Modeling her new flower head band

We then got dressed and headed to church for a wonderful service. After church, we went to JoJo and Papa's for lunch and a little egg hunting

So excited about the duck Mawmaw Beth gave her

Ruthie and Kaylee checking out their baskets from JoJo and Papa. Ruthie needs a little assistance picking it up. It was stuffed with goodies

Our little family

MawMaw Beth with her 2 namesakes. Ruthie Elizabeth and Kaylee Elizabeth

JoJo and Papa with their girls

Kaylee, Ruthie & Aunt Lori

The annual hunt in the yard with Kaylee and Emma

Ruthie in the dogwood. This dogwood has been in the edge of my great-grandmother's yard my entire life. Who knows how long ago it was planted there. Lots and lots of family photos have been made in front of this tree.

That afternoon we went to MawMaw Louie's to see the Whitley gang. Ruthie had such a good time entertaining everyone and getting more Easter goodies

All smiles about her basket from PawPaw, Granna & Aunt Brit

Hunting eggs with PawPaw

After all that fun, Ruthie was exhausted to we went home for a nap before going to Pop E's and Nana's for dinner that night.

Ruthie checking out what the Easter bunny left there

Pop E and Ruthie checking out her new DJ Lance hat

Egg Hunts

2010-04-12T09:59:00.006-05:00

Ruthie was a full force egg hunter this year. She loved it! The Wednesday before Easter we had a spur of the moment egg hunt at Mother's house with Kaylee and 2 of her friends. At that time they were predicting rain for Easter weekend and we didn't want to miss the annual hunt. Ruthie did all the hunting the first round, then we hid them for Kaylee and the girls for them to find

Ready to hunt

Taking a break in JoJo's daffodils

Hunting with the help of Aunt Lori and Kaylee

This was the funniest part of the afternoon. After Kaylee and the girls had finished hunting their eggs, they sat down to have a picture made. They had a fierce competition going for who had found the most. Ruthie took full opportunity of them taking their eyes off of the their baskets and starting throwing them. They were scrambling all over the place trying to gather them back up because they had not done their count yet. Ruthie thought this was hilarious which made her continue to toss them every time they just about had them all picked up. We laughed and laughed. She is such a character.

On the Saturday before Easter, we went to the local hunt at the park. Ruthie had just as much fun watching the other children and she did picking up eggs. They had eggs everywhere. She ended up with 44. She could have had more, but I decided we needed to go ahead and count what we had and check for prize eggs. She didn't get a prize egg, but she came home with $0.85 and tons of candy.

Her look of determination

On the go getting those eggs

Checking out her loot

First Hair Cut

2010-04-11T16:41:00.006-05:00

We have been really busy the last couple of weeks, so the blog has been on the back burner. I am working on catching everything up.

Ruthie had her first hair cut a couple of weeks ago. It wasn't much of a cut. I just wanted the everything evened up. It was starting to look "stringy" My Aunt Kim did the honors of her first hair cut and that is special in itself to me. There was no way she was sitting still in a chair, so I held her and she ate cookies. It went very smoothly. Thank you Aunt Kim!

We love pretty days!

2010-03-21T16:54:00.006-05:00

We have had a few days recently where the weather was just PERFECT and we took full advantage of them. Ruthie and I both need the time out of the house. She absolutely loves being outside. One day last week while the weather was nice we went with JoJo to pick up Kaylee from school and headed over to Kids Town for a little fun. Ruthie LOVES Kaylee so getting to see her and to play outside made her very happy.

Getting ready to slide

Loving the swing

She didn't much want to stop playing and pose for a picture

A little static from going down the slide on her back head first

This past Friday was another beautiful day, so we spent the entire afternoon outside soaking up the sun and playing

She HATES grass on her hands. I have to wipe it off immediately. Needless to say, I spend a lot of time wiping her hands.

Torturing poor Suzie Q

Her favorite thing to say recently "I don't know"

Going for a ride

17 Months

2010-03-04T16:16:00.003-06:00

Ruthie was 17 months on Feb 26. I honestly have no idea where time has gone. She is growing up way too fast!! She is so busy these days and very entertaining. She LOVES to dance and is starting to mimic just about anything you do. We have a lot of fun seeing what all she will do. She never meets a stranger, which I must admit is a little scary to me. She will go to or with anyone. One of her favorite things to do is walk around talking on the phone. Most of the time she calls JoJo or PawPaw. However, when they are actually on the phone she has very little to say except "Hey JoJo" or "Hey PawPaw" We have been super busy lately. We have season baseball tickets and the Rebels have been keeping us in Oxford a good bit. Ruthie loves it. Not so much the baseball, but all the good music that they play.

Ruthie at the game

She also LOVES shoes. She is obsessed with them. She has to try on all shoes left laying within her reach. For some reason, every time Nana (Dustin's mom) comes over she makes her take her shoes off so that she can wear them. Nana is the only person she does this to. She must really like her shoes. The other day she discovered Dustin's boots and had quite a good time with them. She was hilarious trying to walk around in them.
Daddy has big shoes to fill!

We have been so fortunate with all that has been going around to avoid sickness. I mean somehow she and I escaped catching the stomach virus from Dustin last week. However, on Sunday our lucky streak ended. She just didn't feel good and was running a temperature. No other symptoms. On Monday, she was still sick so off to the Dr we went. He said she had caught a fever bug that was going around. It hung around until Tuesday night. By Wednesday, she was good as new. She played sooo hard all day. I guess she was trying to make up for the two days she missed out on. The picture below is a result of all that playing. She has never went to sleep without being put in her bed or held.

Fun in the Snow

2010-02-09T10:58:00.004-06:00

Yesterday we woke up with a yard full of snow! I had no idea there was even a chance for it. By 8:00 it was snowing so hard I could barely see the street from our window. We NEVER get actual snow. It is usually made up of more ice than snow. This was perfect snow to play in. Once it let up, I bundled Ruthie up and we headed outside. I knew we had to do it before nap because the rain was coming in after lunch to wash it all away. She loved it. She stomped all over the yard. She loved the way it sounded. We played for almost an hour before going in. I couldn't believe how comfortable the temperature was to get out there. I had to go in and take my coat off because I had on too many layers.

Checking it out

I like this stuff!

I decided to build a snowman since I didn't know when we would have enough snow to do it again. It was pitiful looking, but Ruthie didn't mind. She loved watching me roll the snow around. She would come over and pat it like I was doing to help pack it in.

Helping put the carrot on (rather putting it back on after taking it off). Right after this the head fell off due to her "patting" and had to be redone

Yay! We did it!!

She also spent a lot of time kicking and chasing her ball around in the snow.

We had a GREAT morning which resulted in a very long nap!

Playing Beauty Shop

2010-02-04T08:41:00.006-06:00

Every Monday night we get to visit with JoJo, Aunt Lori, and Mamaw Beth. They come over because Kaylee takes dance here in Ripley. This past Monday we played beauty shop. Mother used to roll my hair on pink sponge rollers almost every night when I was a toddler. Ruthie is not quite old enough yet, but we wanted to see what her hair would do.

Ruthie fixed Aunt Lori's hair while JoJo rolled hers
All rolled up

Doing her new hula dance routine. I have no idea what started this, but it is too cute

She is so proud of herself

We only had about an hour for the curl to set. Seeing that most children leave them in overnight, that is not quite long enough to dry and set. It turned out pretty good for such a short amount of time though All fluffed up!

We had so much fun playing with her. She looks so different to me with "fluffy" hair. I am sure in the future there will a lot more nights of wearing sponge rollers

A Little Time Spent on my Soap Box

2010-01-24T14:36:00.002-06:00

We had a very moving service at church this morning. Bro Jason spoke of Nehemiah and the rebuilding of the wall in Jerusalem. He told of how we have to put our faith in God and he will be our strength to help us along. Nehemiah felt very strongly about seeing his home town torn down and burned. He felt he needed to do something to help preserve the place where his fathers were buried. Ever since leaving church this morning I have felt that I like Nehemiah am having a hard time hearing of the heartache in my home community. I may not live there now, but my heart will always be there.

I know that there are very few people that I will reach via my blog, but I feel like I must say something. Some of you may have no clue as to what I am talking about. This past week the Prentiss Co School board voted to close Jumpertown High School next year and make it K-8, then it will move to K-6 the next year. I know that to some that sounds like it is not such a big deal. In the future, I may be able to say that as well, but only time will tell. However, right now, that is not how I feel. A community as small as Jumpertown is built around it's school. It is the heartbeat of the community.

My heart aches for teachers concerned about if they will have a job next year. It hurts even more for the students that will be leaving the only school they have ever known to attend an inter-county rival school. I do not think it would be as hard to swallow if I could understand why it is happening. Why is just Jumpertown being targeted in this?

However, after today, I feel like I have to let it go and quit asking why. I have to know that God's plan will be exposed. I know that I am not personally affected by this since I do not have children in the school system. I do however have lots of family and friends that are. It hurts me to see a community in such pain. My prayer request is that God will wrap his arms around Jumpertown and that Jumpertown with his help will move forward to bigger and better things.

Lasagna for Dinner

2010-01-14T08:48:00.002-06:00

Ruthie has been working on using her spoon to feed herself lately. I have been letting her do it with things such as mac n cheese and mashed potatoes. Last night I decided to let her have a go at it with her lasagna. It was the best dinner experience Dustin and I have had in a very long time. She started out with the spoon, but couldn't seem to get enough at a time in her mouth. She loved it! So, she said forget the spoon and went at it with both hands.

This stuff is so good!

I can't leave any on the plate!

Best dinner EVER!

Snow Day

2010-01-14T08:39:00.002-06:00

Last Thursday we woke up to a little snow on the ground. It wasn't much, but we had to get out and see what we had. We loaded up and headed over to Nana and Pop E's to meet Dustin for lunch. While we were there we let Ruthie get out and discover in the snow. She really could have cared less to be honest. I thought she would have been more intrigued than she was. So, we snapped a few pictures and headed back in. It was really cold!!!

Walking in High Cotton

2010-01-06T17:18:00.005-06:00

We celebrated the New Year in Dallas! We flew out on New Year's Eve and arrived that afternoon. The hotel we stayed at was Ole Miss Central. A lot of the players were on the same floor as us. As a matter of fact, some were next door, but don't ask me who they were because I have no idea. We went downtown that night for dinner and Y.O. Steakhouse. It was delicious! We came back and Dustin and I watched the ball drop on the tv while Ruthie slept in her crib. We are such party animals. There was however a huge Ole Miss party that night at our hotel.

The next day the girls went shopping at the Northpark Mall. It has every store you can imagine! I never knew malls had Louis Vuitton, Tiffany's, Marc Jacobs, and lots more. We joined the guys for dinner at Pappisito's that night. It was full of Ole Miss fans and at one point the entire restaurant did Hotty Toddy. The looks on the waiters and few guests faces that were not Ole Miss fans was priceless.

On Saturday we were pumped and ready to head to Dallas Stadium. It is everything they say it is and more!

Ruthie at the hotel ready to cheer on the Rebels!

Our family outside the stadium

Hotty Toddy!

Aunt Misty was even there!

Cotton Bowl Champs 2010!

Fans welcoming the players back to the hotel after the game

We had a wonderful time! The game make my stomach hurt at times, but the Rebels pulled through in the end. We hung around the hotel that night and watched all of the excitement from the win. Players were everywhere and kids were running around chasing them down for autographs. It was great to be a part of it all!

Ruthie got so excited on Sunday right before we left that she fell and bumped her head on a ledge in the hotel lobby. It wasn't too bad, but it needed to be closed up when we got home. We finished our Sunday night with a trip to the Tippah Co Hospital ER. They put a little Dermabond on it and she is good as new

After being treated

Happy New Year!

McCafferty Christmas

2010-01-06T16:46:00.003-06:00

We finished up our Christmas celebrations at Dustin's grandparents the day after Christmas. Ruthie is the only great grandchild and also the only child under 8. So needless to say, she was the center of attention as she is most places that we go.

By this point, she had really conquered opening presents

The McCafferty grandchildren and great grand child.

Checking out her new rocking horse with Uncle Steve

PawPaw got an Ole Miss Snuggie as well!

Christmas Day

2010-01-06T10:42:00.006-06:00

Christmas morning we woke up bright and early and headed over to JoJo and Papa's for breakfast. We all enjoyed a wonderful meal prepared by Papa. It was a great morning spent with family. Ruthie and Kaylee both loaded up on gifts as they usually do.

Ruthie was super excited about her Tickle Me Elmo

She was also excited about her new outfit

She loves her Little Superstar play set. She plays with it all the time and loves to hear herself in the microphone.

Mamaw Beth and JoJo opening their surprises from Lori and I

After coming home and letting Ruthie nap for a bit, we loaded back up and went to Nana and

Pop E's that afternoon for dinner. We had a great time as we always do!

Ruthie digging for more presents

This palm pilot thing keeps her occupied for very extended amounts of time

Playing in the floor with her Daddy

Nana got an Ole Miss Snuggie. Dustin imitated the commercial for us

We had a wonderful Christmas spent with family!

Christmas Eve

2010-01-06T09:56:00.004-06:00

Santa came a day early to our house. He heard that we had to get up really early on Christmas morning to go to JoJo and Papa's so he wanted Ruthie to be able to enjoy her new toys.

Santa Came!

She was so cute! We were telling her that Ho Ho had came. That is what she calls him. When she rounded the corner and saw her loot, she took her paci out and said Ho Ho!

Showing us all of the stuff

Checking out her stocking

Ruthie and Daddy playing with the new golf set that Santa brought

(who's idea do you think this was?)

Practicing some more

That afternoon we packed the truck and headed to the Big V for Christmas with the Whitleys. Ruthie entertained everyone as she always does. We are so blessed with such a wonderful family. Ruthie has no idea how blessed she is.

I had to include this pic. How cute is that? Uncle Danny and Aunt Alice had her a crocheted Colonel Rebel made.

We left there and went to Jumpertown for the Yates Christmas! We were wore out and the weather was awful. It was pouring rain and somewhere between Mamaw's and there we lost the hairbow. Oh well! Luckily Paw found it in the driveway the next day!

Ruthie thought she needed to sit on the football for some reason

She also spent alot of time loving on the lighted deer

Cheatham Christmas

2009-12-23T18:27:00.002-06:00

This year everyone in Phyllis's family (aka Dustin's mom aka Nana) was super busy and we could never pin down a weekend afternoon for us to all get together like we usually do. So, we improvised. On Tuesday night we met at McDonald's for a little food, fellowship, and gifts for the kiddos. We had a great time! Ruthie loves a chicken nugget happy meal, so that was a treat enough for her. I highly suggest we do this every year! haha! It was so much easier than fixing food and cleaning up afterwards and the kids had just as much fun as they would have at some one's house (probably more considering they got to eat fast food for supper)

Ruthie has mastered opening gifts

Ruthie and Nana looking at her new doll and book

The Kiddos

Landon, Logan, Laken and Ruthie

Christmas with Paw & Granna

2009-12-23T18:01:00.003-06:00

On Monday night we had Christmas with Paw & Granna (aka my Dad and Jan). Ruthie had so much fun playing and opening presents. She was the center of attention and loved every minute of it. We had a wonderful meal and all got lots of goodies! We are really blessed to have such a wonderful family to spend our holidays with!

Ruthie was really excited about the bottle that went with her new baby doll

She got an Ole Miss tricycle from Paw and Granna

She was showing Aunt Misty what she will need to do when her baby gets here in July

2009-12-17T08:23:00.001-06:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Uncle Derek & Aunt Misty's Big Announcement

2009-12-12T20:25:00.003-06:00

My baby sister Misty and her husband Derek told us tonight that we will be getting a new baby in July. Ruthie got to make the announcement. It was so cute!! They lined the grandparents up to play a game and then Ruthie came out with a shirt on that said "My baby cousin is on the way" I am so excited for them. Babies are such a blessing and now Ruthie will have a cousin close to her age to grow up with. (Side note: the surprise was on me as well that is why Ruthie's outfit is a little mismatched ha ha)

Thanksgiving 2009

2009-12-05T09:17:00.005-06:00

We had a very busy, but very thankful Thanksgiving. We started our festivities on Wednesday night at Aunt Sandy's for the annual Yates' Thanksgiving Eve party. Ruthie had a blast watching all of the kids run and play. She spent the majority of the night squealing and eating off any one's plate that would allow her to.

Giving baby Julia love. So sweet!

The annual family photo session. Ruthie was not in the mood for sitting still with all those kids running around

Our Family

On Thursday, we headed to Jumpertown for lunch at Mamaw Beth's. We all ate entirely too much as usual

Ruthie and Kaylee playing with the turkey

Ruthie and Aunt Lori doing a little taste testing before we ate

Ruthie LOVED Kaylee's beauty shopGetting her hair done by her stylist Kaylee

From there, we went to Mamaw Louie's for the Whitley Thanksgiving. Ruthie played and played with her Aunt Misty and Aunt Britney.

Taking a cell phone break in the floor with Aunt Brit

For some reason, this was the last stop for the camera. However, it was not for us. We came back to Ripley and visited with Dustin's grandparents before heading to Pop E and Nana's for dinner. We had a wonderful Thanksgiving with lots of family. We are so blessed to have so many people to spend our holidays with.

Buzzing Around

2009-11-03T12:25:00.006-06:00

Ruthie was a bumble bee for Halloween. This year, as opposed to last, she could really get into the idea. She seemed to love her costume. We had lots of visits to make, so we started early Saturday afternoon. First, we headed over Nana and Pop E's to trick or treat.

Ruthie opening her bag of goodies from Nana and Pop E

Posing with Nana and Pop E

This picture cracks me up. She wasn't upset over the cake Nana made her, but she was mad that she had to quit playing with Pop E to get her picture made with it.

From there, we headed to the Big V to see Mamaw Louie who gave us bags of homemade cookies. Yum Yum!

Then, over to PawPaw, Granna, and Aunt Britney's house for some more fun

Reading the book that she got there with Aunt Brit

Aunt Kim stopped by with a cell phone for the bumble bee

Back in the car and over to Aunt Misty's and Uncle Derek's house after that

Our last stop was at JoJo and Papa's house. Aunt Lori met us there and Mamaw Beth came down to visit as well.

Opening her goodies with a little help from Aunt Lori

As you can tell, we had a very busy Halloween, but it sure was fun.

Pumpkin Patch

2009-10-30T15:54:00.005-05:00

Last Sunday was such a beautiful afternoon. We decided to get out and enjoy it, so we headed to the Pumpkin Patch. Ruthie loved it. She was mesmerized by all the little kids and music playing. Here are a few photos from the day

Ruthie and Kaylee arriving at the Pumpkin Patch

She loved putting head in the cut outs

We couldn't get her to stand still (imagine that)

I love that she is sticking her tongue out.

She couldn't decide which pumpkin she wanted

Yummy! Nana shared her caramel apple

Our little family

Love It!

Fall Fun!

2009-10-27T14:27:00.006-05:00

We have had a very busy October. This coming weekend will be the first weekend all month that we have been at home. We started off the month with a trip to Nashville for the Ole Miss/Vandy game. I didn't post any pics from that weekend because I had just got my new camera and I can't find where it downloaded them on my computer because I didn't have the settings right. Oops!

The next weekend we headed to Oxford for the Ole Miss/Alabama game. We had a GREAT weekend. Our friends Casey and Ashlyn came up from Hattisburg to spend the weekend with us. We had a night out on the square with them on Friday before a day in the Grove on Saturday.

Ruthie getting a shoulder ride from Casey

Kaylee and Ruthie

We have also been spending lots of time outside on Sunday afternoons. Recently, we have had some perfect weather Sundays and we are taking full advantage of them

Ruthie's first trip down her slide that she got for her birthday

The next weekend took us back to Oxford for another day in the Grove. It was a rather cool day though. We spent all day in the Grove and headed back to the condo to watch the game on tv that night.

Ruthie calling up coach Nutt and the team to tell them the game plan. Haha!

Another Sunday afternoon outdoors. Our poor cat, Suzy Q, never gets a break with Ruthie around

This past weekend we headed back to Oxford. We had a wonderful weekend. Dustin's family from Arkansas came down for the game and spent the weekend with us. His cousin William has 2 adorable boys Brooks and Jack. Ruthie was so entertained by them and spent most of the weekend squealing in delight. It was a beautiful day and Ole Miss pulled out a win as well. Our guest were not too upset though because Marcie, William's wife, is an Ole Miss alum.

Ruthie posing with some of the cheerleaders

I think that sums up our month so far. I am going to try to not get so behind from now on, so my post doesn't have to be a short novel

First Birthday!!

2009-09-29T08:20:00.006-05:00

Our sweet Ruthie turned the big 1 this past Saturday. We celebrated with a party at Pop E and Nana's house. She had a blast showing out for her entire family all at once.

I can't believe she is actually a year old already. Where does the time go? She is such a blessing and joy to us. She does something new everyday. She is constantly smiling and giggling. Words cannot not describe the happiness she brings to our life

Starting to dig into her cake

Yum! I LOVE this cake!!!

Daddy, I am tired of opening presents

Yesterday, we went for her 1 year check up and had to get those dreaded shots. She did great! She cried, but as soon as she got her juice she was over it.

She is weighing in at 25 lbs (90th percentile) and is 30 3/4" long (90th percentile

The Grove is Back!!

2009-09-20T14:04:00.002-05:00

Ole Miss had their first home game of the season yesterday. We couldn't be more excited. Our family LOVES spending Saturdays at the Grove. Ruthie had a really big time as well. She played so hard all day long. I was pleasantly surprised at how well she did. We were so lucky that the rain held off for the entire time we were there. Now that I know that she is going to do ok spending 12 hours at the Grove/football game, I can't wait for the next home game.

Getting a shoulder ride from Aunt Lori
Making funny faces with Papa

Loving having freedom to roam the sidewalk

Taking a break from all the fun

All that football made her need a snack

Big Boo Boo

2009-08-29T11:45:00.002-05:00

Ruthie got a little too excited at the park the other night and fell and scraped her nose on the concrete. These pics are from yesterday. It looks even worse today. She is tough though. She barely cried when it happened

11 Months

2009-08-26T10:14:00.003-05:00

Ruthie is 11 months old today. I can't believe it! She is growing up too fast. She is quite the character these days. Always entertaining to say the least. I am going to list a few stats, mainly so I don't forget them. With that being said, this is where we are at today.

Walking everywhere, she is getting pretty fast too.

6 teeth, 3 top & 3 bottom

Says: Dada, Mama, bye bye, hey, ah choo( she does this anytime she or anyone else sneezes), uh oh, bite, mmm mmm (when giving you love), & many more that we haven't been able to decipher yet

She waves anytime someone picks up keys or heads toward the door

Loves to people watch

Adores any flavor of puffs

Squeals LOUDLY for no reason at all

Loves to play peek a boo

Will give you "five" when asked to

I am sure I have left something off, but I am sure whatever it is will come up in a post soon

Busy Busy Busy

2009-07-25T08:25:00.003-05:00

Ruthie has been really busy this past week. She took her first trip to the beach, which I need to do a post about. Also, she has cut 2 teeth on top. Then, to top it all off, she walked for the first time yesterday afternoon. I have included a video of her walking. We were so excited! I promise I am going to get the Destin post done soon

ISR Success!

2009-07-14T18:08:00.004-05:00

Ruthie has been taking infant survival swimming class. She got the floating down pretty quick. However, at the end of last week she started getting the roll over part. I am happy to say that she has mastered it. I am so proud of her. I have included a couple of videos to show what she has learned.

4th of July Weekend

2009-07-08T11:09:00.006-05:00

I hope everyone had a great holiday weekend. We sure did. We went to the cabin on Friday and spent the day watching Ruthie splash in her pool, riding the boat, and cooking out with friends.

Ruthie splashing around

Ruthie ready for her first ever boat ride. She seemed to enjoy it. She didn't care too much for the life jacket at times, but that is to be expected

On Saturday, we loaded and headed to Aunt Lori's house for the annual 4th of July parade. This was Ruthie's first appearance. She did so good. I was a little nervous about her staying put for that long, but I think she was entertained by it all

Ruthie and Papa getting ready for the parade to start

Ruthie and Kaylee loaded up and ready to go!

Us after the parade

We then headed back to the cabin for more boat riding and a cook out with friends and family. Pop E even let Ruthie drive the boat. I didn't have my camera for some reason, but it was too funny. We made 2 complete circles in the middle of the lake. We finished the night off with a firework show that the lake does each year. All in all it was a wonderful holiday weekend spent with great friends and family

Ruthie playing peek a boo with Aunt Lori. She thought this was too funny. She would cackle so loud everytime she spotted her.

9 Months Old

2009-06-26T07:45:00.002-05:00

Ruthie is 9 months old today. I can't believe it. She went for her 9 month check up on Tuesday. She now weighs in at 22lbs 8oz (90th percentile) and is 28 1/2" long (75th percentile). She has 3 teeth now, all on the bottom. She is growing leaps and bounds everyday. She also seems to master a new trick each day. She is now officially a crawler and can pull up on everything. She also scales down the couch once pulled up at a very fast pace. She can cluck with her tongue like she is calling the dog. She says DaDa and just this week added Mama. Not necessarily to us, but we like it just the same. There are many more that I can just not think of at the moment.

Pulling up on her crib

Talking with Pop E

She is even taking swim lessons. Such a big girl. It is the roll to float survival classes. She is doing so well. This video below is her on just her 3rd day of class.

I also included our birthday wake up video. Please ignore me in the background

My Favorite Dads

2009-06-20T18:39:00.004-05:00

With Father's Day being tomorrow I wanted to recognize the wonderful dads in my life. My father known to Ruthie as PawPaw is the best dad a girl could ask for. He has 3 daughters, so you know he is a patient man. We have phone conversations that last forever. I so enjoy talking to him and catching up. He has a laugh that no one could imitate. It is said by everyone that meets us that I am a carbon copy of him. I am proud to say that they are right. I just hope that I give Ruthie the love, kindness, and patience that he has always shown me.

Ruthie and PawPaw in deep conversation

I was blessed with 2 fathers. Billy my step-father has been married to my mom for 28 years. He has 2 daughters of his own, but never distinguished a difference between them and Lori and myself. He was at every dance recital, beauty review, sporting event, and every other thing that I was involved in. He also has the patience of a saint. He himself living in a house of 3 women and only 1 bathroom. Needless to say, that can be nerve wrecking in itself. He is the best breakfast cook that you will ever meet. I miss having a full breakfast on Sunday mornings. It is his speciality. I take advantage of it everytime I get the chance.

Ruthie with PaPa at his birthday party

Dustin was also blessed with a wonderful father. He will do whatever it takes you help you get what you want or need. I have a feeling that this characteristic might be a problem with Ruthie. We will have to reign him in. He works hard so that his family is well taken care of and I have never heard him complain of a hard day. I love to hang out with him. Before Dustin and I got married we watched Sex and the City every Sunday night. Dustin refused to watch. Ruthie's Pop E does lots of fun stuff like that. He will shop, go out to eat, or do whatever we want to do.

See what I mean, Ruthie getting a shoulder ride

Lastly, but CERTAINLY not least there is the newest father in my life, Dustin. I have been so amazed at what a great father he is. He LOVES Ruthie beyond words. He works so hard so that I can stay at home and be with our daughter. He cleans, cooks, irons, feeds Ruthie, changes diapers, and much much more. You could not ask for a better husband or father. Ruthie has brought so many things into our life. The biggest one being a greater love for one another. I knew I loved him before, but seeing him as a father has deepened my love for him more than I thought was possible.

Ruthie with her Daddy

As you can tell, Ruthie and I are so blessed to have these 4 wonderful men in our life.
God has been so good to me.

Happy Father's Day!

Ruthie's first time in the pool

2009-06-19T21:18:00.002-05:00

Ruthie went to the pool for the first time today. We have been trying to get there all summer, but have been so busy we haven't had the chance until today that Dustin and I both could go at the same time. At first she wasn't too sure about it. She cried a little bit. But, it did not take long for her to start to love it. She played forever. We finally got her out because she was starting to look like a prune.

Kicking with Daddy

Chilling in my float

She had to try out her other float as well

After all that swimming, it was time to drive the car. She is really starting to get the hang of walking behind it.

Regional Champs! Hotty Toddy!!

2009-06-02T13:48:00.003-05:00

This past weekend we headed to Oxford for the baseball regional tournament. We had a great time even though it was soooo hot. The Rebels got beat on Sunday, so we stayed for the game on Monday night and we got to celebrate them winning. Ruthie was such a trooper. 4 baseball games in 4 days. I have included a few pics from the weekend. We are headed back on Friday for the Super Regionals. Go Rebels!

Cheering for the Rebs
"Mom, why is it sooo hot?"

Ruthie playing with Aunt Lori at Sunday's game

Ole Miss 4 Western Kentucky 1

The team rounding the field celebrating with fans

8 months

2009-05-26T13:30:00.003-05:00

It is hard to believe that Ruthie is 8 months old today. Where does the time go? She is growing and learning so much everyday. She now has 2 bottom teeth. She loves to "drive her car", squeal, and clap her hands. She also is working on crawling. She can get in position, she just can't quite make everything work at one time. Last night, she pulled up unassisted for the first time, so it looks like major baby proofing must start. I have included some pics from this past weekend at the cabin. The on and off rain showers kept us from getting into swimwear, but we had a great time regardless.

Ruthie in her pool that her Daddy blew up for her. It has yet to see any water, but it came in very handy this weekend as a play spot
She soon realized that she could escape

Happy Memorial Day!!

2009-05-17T19:18:00.002-05:00

Ruthie has done a little bit of everything today. It started with a face forward fall from sitting up to laying down that led to a red mark for a few minutes afterward. It is gone now. Then she managed to wedge herself between her chair and a toy and had to scream for help. Neither time was she injured. Just needed to fuss about it for a minute. And just a little while ago while hanging out in the kitchen with her Daddy, she learned she can pull herself to sitting position if she uses the side of the chair. Needless to say, she must be strapped in from now on. Pics are below. Sorry about the quality, but my camera was in the truck, so I just grabbed the video camera and took still pics with it.

"What, is this not how I am supposed to sit in this thing?"

" I told you that I am not going to fall out"

Mother's Day 2009

2009-05-11T18:48:00.003-05:00

I had a wonderful first Mother's Day. Ruthie and I went to church at Jumpertown as we normally do where I received a carnation from the youth of the church. Ruthie had mine and JoJo's broke within 5 minutes of us receiving them, but it was pretty while it lasted. Dustin attended church with his mother. We met back up and all headed to Oxford for a delicious brunch at the University Club. The food was great, but the fellowship was even better. I love days spent with family and I appreciate my time with them even more now that I am a mother myself. I hope that Ruthie still wants to hang out with us when she is older.

Ruthie posing between bites of mac n cheese which she LOVED
Mommy and Ruthie

My wonderful little family

The McCafferty's minus Pop E

The Girls

JoJo, Kaylee, Lori, Ruthie, Me, and Mamaw Beth

Blessed!!

2009-05-08T18:04:00.002-05:00

Mother's day presents already

Dustin's grandparents sent me this huge hanging basket
Ruthie sent me this beautiful arrangement with a little help from Nana!

Everybody Clap Your Hands

2009-05-06T20:05:00.003-05:00

Ruthie has been trying so hard to figure out how to clap her hands. Today she mastered it. She was playing in the floor when I noticed her doing it. She obliged to show Daddy and let Mama video it.

7 months and 2 teeth later!

2009-05-04T20:07:00.003-05:00

Ruthie celebrated her 7 month birthday with the arrival of a tooth. That was the 26th. This past weekend she debuted the second one. At this rate, we will have a full set in no time. haha!

Ok, you got the picture of my 2 bottom teeth. Now give me the food!

Cook Out at Papaw and Granna's

2009-05-04T19:56:00.002-05:00

This past Saturday Papaw and Granna had a cook out for the family. Dustin was out of town so he missed some good food and fellowship. We had a great time! Ruthie got to spend time with Aunt Britney, Aunt Misty, Uncle Derek, Papaw, Granna, Great-Mamaw Louie, Great-Aunt Kim, Whitley, Aunt Lori, and Kaylee. Papaw cooked us steaks and we had some yummy sides and desserts that Granna prepared. Ruthie, of course, got some new clothes and toys while we were there. She is so blessed! Thanks so much for everything. We had a blast!

Playing with Aunt Britney and Aunt Misty
Bouncing on Aunt Misty's belly

Telling PaPaw about my busy day

Hold on tight Mamaw, I like to wiggle

Double Decker

2009-04-26T20:35:00.004-05:00

Taking a quick power nap

Taking a teething soothing break with a little help from Kaylee
(side note: a bottom tooth broke the gum line on Friday)

Ruthie enjoyed her first Double Decker festival yesterday in Oxford. The weather was absolutely beautiful. We had a great time! I didn't take many pictures. I am sad about that. We were just too busy having fun. She had to have a bath last night when we got back to the condo because I had so much sunscreen on her that she smelled like an entire bottle had spilled all over her. But, it worked. Not even a hint of a sunburn. She was such a trooper. We were there from noon until 9:30 last night. I was so proud of her. She ate, people watched, napped, and had a grand ole time. I have included a couple of the very few pics I took just so I wouldn't have a post without a Ruthie pic.

Ruthie's first Ole Miss Chair

2009-04-21T20:14:00.003-05:00

I had to post this because Nana and Pop E were so excited to give it to her. They had it all set up and ready when we arrived for her to try it out. She seemed to really enjoy it.

Easter Sunday

2009-04-13T17:06:00.003-05:00

Ruthie had a wonderful first Easter and so did Dustin and I. We had a very busy, but fun-filled day. Ruthie woke up to see what the Easter bunny brought and then we got dressed and headed to church. Then, we went to Mamaw Louie's for lunch with the Whitley family. From there, we went to Jumpertown for a second lunch at JoJo and PaPa's. Ruthie showed off her new talent of imitating the coughing sound when you do it. Kaylee and her did it about 1,000 times. We finished up the day with dinner and Pop E and Nana's. Needless to say, Dustin and I were stuffed. Ruthie was also loaded down with goodies. It was a GREAT day with family!

Ruthie getting her basket
gotta love that bed head

Ruthie dressed for church with her basket

Posing with Mamaw Beth

With her basket from JoJo

Easter Sunday

2009-04-13T17:01:00.002-05:00

Our first Easter together!
JoJo and Papa with the girls

Aunt Lori, Kaylee, & Ruthie

Ruthie with her basket and bunny cake Nana made

Nana also got her some cute bunny ears

Easter Bunny

2009-04-12T20:37:00.003-05:00

My mom and I went to the mall Wednesday and had Ruthie's pic made with the Easter Bunny. This picture cracks me up so much because of her hair. It is everywhere. They had a huge fan blowing to keep the bunny cool. Check out that Alfalfa twig in the back

Easter Egg Hunt

2009-04-08T19:23:00.002-05:00

Ruthie had her first Easter egg hunt tonight. We went to church for the annual youth hunt. Her Aunt Lori and Kaylee helped her find 4 eggs. She seemed to have a good time. We gave Kaylee the candy that was in the eggs since Ruthie is not quite ready for Lifesavers, Skittles, or Nerds. Thanks Aunt Lori and Kaylee for helping us out so mommy could take pictures!

Ruthie and Kaylee getting ready for the hunt
They are off!

Look I found one

I can get it Aunt Lori

I think the chick basket is better than the eggs!

6 Month Update

2009-04-02T19:11:00.003-05:00

As mentioned in the last post, Ruthie turned 6 months old last Thursday. We went for her check up on Tuesday. She is weighing in at 18lbs 2.5oz (80%) and 26 1/4"(70%) in length. He said you couldn't ask for much better than that. In celebration, she has really gotten good at sitting up this week. She can still only sit and not really reach for anything or get too excited or she will fall over. No worries she is always armed with a pillow to catch the fall.

Fun in the exersaucer. She LOVES this!
Sitting around with Elmo

Birthdays, Birthdays, Birthdays

2009-03-29T16:22:00.004-05:00

Lots of birthdays this past week. My step-grandmother turned 80 on Wednesday. We celebrated last Sunday with a family lunch. Papa (Billy) turned 60 on Thursday. Ruthie was also 6 months old on Thursday. And last but not least, Mamaw Beth turned 74 on Friday. We had her a family party at Moore's on Friday night. Ruthie celebrated along with her by having her first cracker and first taste of cake icing. Then, on Saturday we went to Oxford for an afternoon around the Square before Papa's party at the University Club. We had a great time at this party as well. Everyone danced a little, ate a lot, and enjoyed our time together. Ruthie even got to taste her Daddy's chocolate cake!

Ruthie having her first cracker.

Papa letting her try some cake icing

Dancing with Mamaw Beth

Yummy! Chocolate cake!

Live Bunny Pics!

2009-03-20T12:37:00.003-05:00

Ruthie had her picture made yesterday with a live bunny. It was so much fun. I have included a couple that Deanna sent me so far. This is a great opportunity to get great pics for your kids. Deanna at Shoot to Finish in Saltillo is donating the session fees to one of four families competing to become Lebonheur's Miracle Family. Grant Fisher from Booneville is one of these children and his mother and my sister are dear friends. Check her out at http://stfstudio.blogspot.com/

Happy St. Patty's Day!!!

2009-03-17T12:41:00.002-05:00

When I saw this shirt, I couldn't resist. I mean with us being McCafferty's and all!

Being Loud

2009-03-09T09:14:00.005-05:00

Ruthie has learned that she can get very loud. It went on ALL day yesterday. At one point, it went on continuously for over 20 minutes. I finally decided to video some of it. Don't worry I just taped a small sample.

First Snow

2009-03-01T17:38:00.003-06:00

As everyone knows, it snowed last night in north MS. Ruthie could have cared less, but we had to get a pic with her first snow. So, this morning we bundled her up and went out back and took a quick picture. She just wanted to get back inside so the sun would get out of her eyes.

Our Weekend in Jackson

2009-02-23T16:49:00.002-06:00

After the Dr told us it was ok for Ruthie to be around other children, we loaded up the truck and headed to Jackson on Friday. When I say loaded I mean LOADED. It requires so much to take a 5 month old somewhere. We had planned this trip for months and were so excited to finally make it down to see our friends. Casey has been a very dear friend of ours for 10+ years. He and Ashlyn have an adorable little boy, Cadyn who is 8 months old. We had a wonderful time just hanging out and eating. I feel like we ate all weekend long. It was great to get out of town and have a mini vacation. It was even better to spend it with such great friends.

Cadyn and Ruthie holding hands

Cadyn Brock

Ruthie's First Sick Dr's Visit

2009-02-23T16:39:00.004-06:00

Last Wednesday afternoon I noticed that Ruthie's forehead had red splotches on it. I took her temperature and it was 100.4, so I panicked and checked it 4 more times with the same result. ha ha! However, she had no other symptoms. I gave her Tylenol and it went away. We continued this routine until Thursday morning. I assumed it was maybe caused from teething because she was not fussy and still no other symptoms. I called the Dr and they told me that they would like for her to come in just in case because of all the stuff that is going around right now. So, me and her supporting army loaded up and went to the Dr. They did blood work and said she definitely had something viral, but everything looked good. Just to treat the temperature. As you might know, the temperature had broke by the time we made it to the Dr and has yet to return. So I can't really say she was sick, but none the less we had our first visit that required the co-pay. I took a pic of her with her orange band aid from the finger stick for blood work when we got home. I was amazed at her with that as well. She didn't even flinch, not one squeal or cry. She is much tougher than me. She just watched the nurse the entire time she was squeezing her finger like "why are you doing that"

Valentine's Day

2009-02-15T17:33:00.004-06:00

Ruthie and I spent yesterday at my niece Kaylee's school beauty review. She looked beautiful as always. She got a beauty and we were all so excited for her!

Ruthie and Kaylee
Kaylee with her flowers

We came home and Dustin cooked steaks and we had a wonderful dinner at home. Ruthie was showered with Valentine gifts from all of the family. It was a great day for everyone!

Ruthie's Christening

2009-02-09T09:42:00.004-06:00

Ruthie had her christening yesterday. We were so blessed to have around 40 family members present and had a wonderful lunch afterwards. Ruthie did so great with it. She didn't even seem to notice.

Ruthie's New Trick

2009-02-08T20:41:00.002-06:00

Ruthie has recently learned to make the "driving her car" noise with her mouth. She does it all the time now. I have posted a video of it. It is too funny how long she will sit and do this once she starts. Don't worry I only taped a little bit of it.

Thank Goodness for Teething Tablets

2009-01-30T14:25:00.002-06:00

We recently discovered two white spots on Ruthie's lower gums. I thought that it was no way that it could be teeth trying to find their way out. I am still not sure if they are. However, this week she has been very fussy. Not like her at all. She will not let me hold her to put her to sleep. She fights me and wiggles to no end. We eventually lay her down and she puts herself to sleep. After MANY times of putting the paci back in. On Tuesday and Wednesday I blamed it on the shots that she had gotten on Tuesday morning. By this morning I wasn't sure if that was the problem anymore. She was fussy most of the morning, which is usually her happiest time of the day. After her lunch bottle, she always goes down for an afternoon nap and sleeps a couple of hours. However, today she just would not give it up. She was SOOOO sleepy, rubbing her eyes, fretful, but just could not get settled. So I laid her on her activity mat and still the same result. I gave in and tried the teething tablets that Dustin had been telling me that everyone told him they were a God send. They were right. Within 5 minutes of giving her 2 tablets, I got the results shown below. She has now been asleep going on 2 hours. I guess she really is teething. I have been told this can go on for a couple of months before the tooth actually makes it's debut. So until then, thank you teething tablets!

4 Months Old and First Time Eating Cereal

2009-01-27T17:52:00.008-06:00

Ruthie was 4 months old yesterday. It is hard to believe how fast time flies. She had her 4 month check up today. She is weighing in at a whopping 15lbs 14oz (90th percentile) She is now 24 1/2 inches in height (5oth percentile) She did well with her shots. She cried when they were administered, but she was done as soon as it was over. By the way, they give one of the vaccines orally. She absolutely loved it. Sucked it down quick. The child loves to eat. Speaking of eating, he told us to start cereal a couple of times a day topped off with her formula. We had our first taste of cereal when Daddy got home before our 5:3o bottle. I think she did pretty good for her first time. I have posted the video. Sorry about the length. I do not know how to edit yet. Also, please excuse the fact that I really should have brushed my hair and that Dustin does not have the steadiest of hands with the camera.

Happy Birthday!

2009-01-17T17:18:00.003-06:00

Ruthie was 16 weeks yesterday. I can't believe it!

Today we went to Craig's birthday party. He is 2! We had lots of fun watching all the little kids ride toys and bounce in the bouncy house. Happy Birthday Craig! Thanks for inviting us!

McCafferty Look-alike Meter

2009-01-15T20:05:00.002-06:00

I had to post this because this is the ONLY time that it has been said that she looked more like me than Dustin. Not that I mind, I just thought it was funny that the meter picked me. Everyone, including myself, thinks that she is her Daddy made over

MyHeritage: Look-alike Meter - Geneology - Family tree online

Party Time!

2009-01-15T19:21:00.006-06:00

Ruthie attended her first birthday party this past Saturday. We actually had two birthday parties that day. The first was to celebrate sweet Katie Beth turning 6! Heather did a wonderful job with the party. The girls made cookies and Heather made them each their own apron! Too cute!! It made me realize what I have to look forward to. A dozen 6 year old girls squealing can be quite overwhelming. Ruthie seemed to be entertained by all the excitement at first. However, she very soon pooped out and slept the remaining time that we were there.

Ruthie with the bow from Kaylee's Present

HAPPY BIRTHDAY KAYLEE!

That night we celebrated Kaylee turning 12. I can't believe she is 12 already. Actually, her birthday isn't until this Sunday, but we had the gathering early. This was the family get together. PaPa, JoJo, Dustin, Ruthie, myself, Lori, Kaylee, Mamaw Beth, Lily, Parker and Emma ate at Kyoto. I thought we might get some reaction out of Ruthie at the hibatchi grill, but that was not the case. She could have cared less. No worries she was away from the table during all flame ups.

We Are Rolling

2009-01-08T12:26:00.003-06:00

Ruthie rolled over for the first time last night. She can go from her back to her stomach. She hasn't figured out quite yet how to get back over. She has been rocking on her side for a few weeks now and last night all of the sudden she went over. We were so excited. Of course, I didn't get the very first roll on film because I wasn't expecting it. But, she was nice enough this morning to give me a replay.

I did take a pic last night once she was over. She is like "can you turn me back over now?"

Playing on my back. Looking for that glow worm I hear.

There it is. Now I have to get to it

I am almost there

Aww, Success!

In The Crib

2009-01-07T10:50:00.003-06:00

Ruthie spent her first night last night in her crib in her own room. She has been sleeping all night since 5 weeks. However, I couldn't seem to take her out of the bassinet and into her own room. It was just so convenient for paci retrieval. Anyway, I finally did it last night. Of course, she was completely ok with it. I however, got very little sleep because I spent most of the night watching the video monitor. I can't believe how hard little things like that are. I never imagined that I would struggle so much with her moving into her own room. There truly are things you do not understand until you are a parent

Hotty Toddy! Cotton Bowl Champs!!

2009-01-04T18:05:00.002-06:00

Ruthie loved watching the Rebels win the Cotton Bowl!

Happy New Year!!

2009-01-04T18:04:00.000-06:00

Very Busy Christmas!

2009-01-04T17:45:00.005-06:00

We had a WONDERFUL first Christmas with Ruthie. We are so blessed to have her and our great family to share the holidays with. We were very busy. 5 events in 3 days! We survived it and enjoyed every minute of it! I am going to post a pic from each event. This was just the things we went to Dec 23rd-25th. We actually attended 3 others over the month!

Smiling big at Nana and Pop E's

With all of her presents at JoJo and Papa's

Time to eat at the Yates' Christmas

Spending time with MaMaw Louie at the Whitley Christmas

Saying hi to PawPaw Edd at the McCafferty Christmas

Cheatham Christmas 2008

2008-12-10T09:35:00.003-06:00

This past Sunday we had Christmas with Dustin's mother's family. We had a great time seeing everyone and letting Ruthie show off. ha ha. It was her first Christmas event!

Playing with the boys

She had to relax for a little bit with Uncle Drew

Enjoying the view from Daddy's shoulder

The McCafferty's

2008-12-04T09:37:00.001-06:00

Sorry that I posted all this on one day. But, I have fallen a little behind in my blogging. I promise to try to do better. We have just been so busy the past few weeks

Ruthie goes to the Grove

2008-12-04T09:32:00.002-06:00

We had a great time taking Ruthie to the Grove. She did wonderful!

My sister Lori, niece Kaylee, and cousin Whitley made this sign that was in front of our tent to welcome Ruthie to the Grove

The McCafferty's

Ruthie woke up and realized she was in the Grove and couldn't help but smile!