The Guillory Family

Time flies!!!

2011-07-01T08:27:00.001-05:00

It's hard to believe that's it's been two months since our last post. Where does the time go? These last couple of months have been kind of busy for us. Ryan finally finished his residency in Little Rock, AR and we moved back to Texas (Longview). We bought an older house that needed a little work, so it's currently being renovated.

Kelland has enjoyed staying at the lake. He has been swimming, kayaking, fishing, and looking for turtles. During the day he enjoys putting on his "work clothes" and going over to his new house.

Ready to go kayaking

"Work clothes on"

Kelland tries to take his shirt off by himself

Looking for turtles

Kelland in a box

2011-05-01T13:36:00.000-05:00

I think there is a similar picture of me floating around my parents house. Not sure what it is about kids and boxes.

Welcome to the world Hayden!

2011-04-27T13:31:00.002-05:00

Leah and Demitri are the proud parents of Hayden Demitri Villarreal!! He was born happy and healthy on April 26th. Congratulations!

Easter 2011 at the Duke Farm

2011-04-25T13:16:00.027-05:00

We had a great time at Grandma and PawPaw Duke's farm over Easter weekend. We also celebrated Carson's birthday and a belated happy birthday to Marinda. Kelland had so much fun playing with his cousins. They played with farm equipment, dyed Easter eggs, went fishing, and had a huge Easter egg hunt.

Nikolas, Jaxson and Kelland

Nikolas and Kelland

Jaxson and Kelland in PawPaw's tractor

Mommy and Kelland

Kelland and Daddy fish for the first time

Jaxson giving some fishing advice

Jaxson and Kelland

The Easter bunny visited everyone at the farm!

Jaxson, Nikolas, Mia and Kelland

Jaxson, Nikolas and Mia

Mia in her Easter dress

Kelland searching for candy

Egg hunt

Kelland was doing his best to get all the eggs.

Lake Weekend

2011-04-18T13:15:00.000-05:00

The Guillory kids and the Herman brothers met up at Lake Cherokee for a fun weekend in the sun! Kelland enjoyed himself as usual. We missed Brandon this weekend, but I'm sure he had just as much fun at the conference he attended.

Kelland and Ryan waving at their fans.

Kelland helping Pops drive the boat.

Ryan and Marisa

Marisa and Laura

Laura, Marisa, Ryan, Andrew, Abbey and Mike

Abbey and Mike

Andrew, Abbey and Mike

Kelland and Roxy

Kelland and Bernie

Kelland loves the boat

Rock star!

Day at the Zoo

2011-03-21T12:55:00.001-05:00

Few pics of Kelland at the Little Rock Zoo. He is such a big boy!

Kelland is 2 years old!!!

2011-02-22T09:05:00.001-06:00

This weekend Kelland celebrated his second birthday. He received a ton of gifts from all of his family and friends (thank you all very, very much). Since we are working on potty training his Mimi as well as his Aunt Laura and Uncle Brandon sent him some big boy underwear. Last night after his bath he wanted to try them on to see how they fit. Once he got them on he was so excited that he couldn't wait to run into the kitchen to show Mommy. Then, he proceeded to run all around the kitchen like a fool.

Also, in celebration of his second birthday we are working on weaning him from his pacifier - last night was his first night to sleep without one. He wasn't as excited about that...

Beaver Creek Ski Trip

2011-01-29T10:30:00.010-06:00

This past week we took a family trip to Beaver Creek, Colorado to go skiing. We met up with GiGi, Pops, Brandon, Laura, and Abbey. The snow was awesome and we had a great time. We built a snowman, drank hot chocolate, made smores and did some skiing. Kelland even hit the slopes a couple of days - he really seemed to like it! Every time we stopped while skiing he would say, "more, more". I think his favorite part was the gondola ride to the top of the mountain. We can't wait to go again!!!

Snow Day: Take 2

2011-01-12T13:48:00.000-06:00

Kelland enjoys another snow day on Tuesday. He is gearing up

for the ski trip and preparing for the life of a ski bum!!

Snow Day!

2011-01-10T20:38:00.000-06:00

It started snowing yesterday and did not stop until early this morning. We had about 6 inches of snow. Kelland had a great time putting on all his ski gear to go play in the snow. After a while, we came in to warm up and Kelland had arts and crafts time.

Kelland and Daddy in their snow bibs.

Kelland in all his layers.

Snowy eyelashes.

Kelland and Mommy yesterday during the snow.

This morning everything was white with snow.

Bernie loves the snow!

Trying to look tough!

Kelland went crazy with the pipe cleaners!

Kelland and Daddy in their new accessories.

We hope to get snowed in tomorrow too!!

Christmas 2010

2011-01-10T20:23:00.000-06:00

Sorry for the delay in posting a few pics from Christmas. We had a wonderful time hanging out with our families in Texas. I wish we had taken more pictures. Happy New Year to all!!

Christmas at home was a few days early this year.

New fleece vest and coloring book with markers.

The tissue paper was the best part!

Kelland was taking a ride on his new horse!

Making Christmas cookies.

Helping Mom with the sprinkles!

I'm not sure about his icing methods!

All the cooks in the kitchen - Marinda, Grandma Duke,

Mimi, and Marisa.

Nikolas, Jaxson and Kelland trying to sit still.

Kelland and Jaxson look so cute!

Kelland was trying out some of Mia's new toys.

Kelland love the electric train at Gigi and Pop's.

Staring at the train.

"Choo Choo!"

Kelland and Pops

Kelland and Daddy on Christmas morning!

Kelland's favorite box of balls!

Mesmerized by the lights.

Relaxing after several hours of opening presents.

Christmas dinner with PawPaw Guillory!

Shout out on Peace, Love and Airstreams

2010-12-05T14:12:00.000-06:00

Last month we were one of the lucky few who got a visit from our well traveled friends, Justin and Amber Ross. We had a great time checking out their Airstream and hanging out with Amber's family. I was perusing their blog and saw a few familiar faces. Here are the pics from their blog.

Quick trip to the Gannons

2010-12-02T21:53:00.000-06:00

We were excited to squeeze in a quick trip to see Greg, Erica and Blythe Gannon after Thanksgiving. Kelland loves seeing his girlfriend Blythe. He even borrowed her sunglasses while they played outside.

He kind of reminds me of Elton John.

Kelland gets a big kiss from Kona!

Blythe's play-doh matches her outfit, as it should.

Kelland looks a little unsure about the hammock.

Thanksgiving and more...

2010-12-02T21:28:00.000-06:00

We went to the Holmes family Thanksgiving extravaganza this year. We unfortunately did not get many pictures of the actual meal, but it was delish! We all went to Grapevine to see the ICE exhibit at the Gaylord Texan Resort as well as ride the North Pole Express in downtown Grapevine. Kelland had a great time with his cousins. I wish we had taken more pictures.

Craft time with the cousins, MiMi and Grandma.

The big bear at Bass Pro Shop.

What would Christmas be without a few babies

crying in Santa's lap??

It was 9 degrees in the ICE exhibit.

Adorable!

Kelland on the North Pole Express train.

His first experience with glow sticks.

Fun in Longview

2010-12-02T21:15:00.000-06:00

Kelland had a quick weekend in Longview to celebrate the holiday season with the Guillory family. He got a new tent to play with from GiGi and Pops.

He also got a stomach bug and didn't feel very good for several days. This is Kelland in the "sick chair".

Cousin Mia's 1st Birthday

2010-12-02T21:01:00.000-06:00

Mia's 1st birthday was a ton of fun! She was a princess indeed! I think her wardrobe and jewelry collection got a major boost. Kelland enjoyed playing with his cousins.

Trick or Treat!!

2010-10-31T21:14:00.001-05:00

Kelland had a blast this Halloween! He was a super, scary, roaring lion!!

The festivities started with a Halloween parade and party at school!

It looks like he was the leader of the pack.

This was after a few cookies and punch at the party.

Saturday was a Fall Carnival at Trinity Episcopal Church.

Soon to be Cake Walk winners!

One of the many treasures Kelland found in the

Pirate's Treasure Chest.

Fun times at the carnival!

Obviously the best part of the day!!

Kelland was loving it!

I think he could have taken a nap in there.

Hungry Lion!

The Lion and the Scarecrow!

We are only missing the Tin Man and Toto!

Kelland's first time to trick-or-treat.

Mom and Kelland, I mean the Witch and the Lion.

Eating some of the loot!

Bernie makes a great Dorothy!

On to the next house.

Dorothy, the Scarecrow, and the Lion!

Someone was excited about the candy!

Happy Halloween from the Guillory Family!!

Delayed Beach Pictures!!

2010-09-21T20:58:00.000-05:00

Kelland had a great time at the beach last month with his cousins!! I finally had time to go through the several hundred photos. Here are some of the high lights of the trip.

A couple of family photos. Sorry we missed Ryan this trip.

Kelland walking in the sand without shoes. Big improvement.

Mimi, Kelland and Mia

All the grand kids

Kelland and Jaxson were chasing bubbles.

Jaxson, Nikolas and Mia ready for a boat ride.

Mia and Kelland

Cash, Marinda, Nikolas, Jaxson and Mia

Marinda and Mia

Nikolas, Jaxson and Mia

Mia the hula girl!!

Cash, Marinda, Carson and the kids sight-seeing.

Kelland with Mom and Aunt Marinda

Kelland, Mom and Mimi

"Cheese!"

Jaxson the sand angel

...and Nikolas too.

The three crazy cousins. Jaxson, Kelland and Nikolas.

They are going to be big trouble when they get together next!!

Day at the Zoo!

2010-09-17T20:37:00.000-05:00

Kelland had a great day at the zoo today with Maryn. The Little Rock zoo is tons of fun and Kelland loves to make all the animal noises. He can roar like the lions and bears. There were so many monkeys, gorillas, chimps etc that Kelland got to practice his monkey sounds numerous times.

Kelland and Maryn watching the lions. This was one of their favorite exhibits.

Kelland posing in front of the lion area.

Holding hands...so cute!

Ride 'em cowboy!

Or cowgirl!

Kelland and Maryn exhausted the photo ops at the farm animal exhibit. I think they were glad to escape the strollers. There might be future posts about the zoo because I talked myself and Leah into buying a membership. If you haven't been to the zoo, I think you should go. We really enjoyed it and the weather is only getting better.

Ready for a rainy day...

2010-09-17T20:22:00.000-05:00

Kelland is ready for a rainy day or for his dad to spray him with the water hose. Thank you to his wonderful Aunt Annette, Uncle Peter, and Cousins Natalie and Taylor who gave him this adorable rain coat and boots. We love it!!

Work day with Dad

2010-08-31T21:35:00.000-05:00

Kelland is ready to go to the hospital with Dad. He looks so cute in his little scrubs that MiMi gave him.

Kelland is not sure about the bouffant scrub hat.

Kelland has become a pro at saying "cheese" for the camera.

Adorable.

Looks like trouble.

Maryn's Birthday Weekend

2010-08-30T10:14:00.000-05:00

Kelland had a great time celebrating Maryn's 1st birthday this weekend. The Gannon Family came in town to party also. Blythe and Kelland went to the Farmers' Market and played on the playground/splash pad down by the River Market. Maryn's birthday party had a play pool that the kids loved. Kelland has started to say "cheese" for pictures and it is pretty cute.

The birthday girl and her mom

Kelland and Blythe horseback riding

Pool time!

Maryn, Kelland and Blythe say "Cheese!"

Kelland and Blythe and their dads.

Blythe and Maryn with their moms.

Kelland climbs a tree!

Kelland and Dad playing toss.

Look how high Dad can throw!

Beach Trip

2010-08-30T09:34:00.000-05:00

Kelland and Mom went to Destin, FL last week to meet up with Gampy, MiMi, Uncle Carson, and Aunt Marinda's family. Kelland had sooo much fun playing with his cousins at the beach. He even started liking the sand. We didn't have room to pack our camera, so we are waiting on pics from MiMi. We will put up some pics ASAP.

River Market Weekend

2010-08-08T10:26:00.004-05:00

Kelland had a wonderful time down at the River Market
this Saturday. He shopped at the farmers' market and
then went to play in the water at Peabody Park. Kelland
also had fun with Dad painting or at least eating the paints.

Those markers taste great!

Can I give you a kiss?

This is awesome!

The splash pad at Peabody Park is a great way

to beat the summer heat.

Kelland briefly "borrowed" a pink fish from an

unsuspecting girl.

Awesome Hair

2010-08-01T14:51:00.001-05:00

Kelland keeping cool with the wind in his hair.

Another Texas Trip

2010-07-14T19:38:00.003-05:00

We had another whirlwind weekend in Texas. We stopped by Lake Cherokee to see Laura and Brandon and Greg, Erica and Blythe Gannon. Then we drove on to Garland/Dallas to see grandparents, cousins and celebrate Amy Canaday's 30th birthday. We had a great time seeing all of our friends in Dallas.

Kelland with his cousins (Jaxson, Mia and Nikolas) in their 4th of July gear!

Kelland loves to swim.

Kelland and Bernie making the rounds at the pool.

Kelland woke up early at Mimi and Gampy's and went swimming in his pajamas.

Kelland and Blythe at the lake watching the dogs.

Breakfast for two.

Summer 2010

2010-06-16T11:16:00.010-05:00

Kelland is having a great summer and keeping busy! Sorry we have not posted anything since Easter. Kelland is 16 months now and is learning new words every day. His favorite words are ball, bubble and dog. He loves playing in water and trying to eat bubbles.

Kelland waiting for the Lakewood 4th of July parade to start.

Feeling very patriotic!

Gampy with Mia and Kelland.

Swimming lessons at Mimi and Gampy's house.

Kelland is a little fish and stayed in the pool for three days.

Kelland with all his cousins in the pool!

Getting some love from Bernie!

Hanging out on the boat with Aunt Abbey.

Lazy day at the lake with Pops.

Kelland loves playing in the sprinkler.

Soaking wet!

Kelland, Jaxson and Nikolas

Kelland had a great time on the mini roller coaster.

Kelland and Aunt Marinda having fun!

Bumper cars start at a young age.

A new favorite...vacuuming!

Easter 2010

2010-04-14T11:13:00.010-05:00

Kelland celebrated his second Easter this year and he had tons of fun! Two egg hunts, Easter pictures, then throw in a horse race and you have a jam packed Easter weekend.

Kelland gets ready to dye eggs.

He had a hard time retrieving the eggs and by the end of it his hands were stained six different colors.

Kelland first notices the eggs and readies for the hunt.

He found the prize egg!

What else is in this basket?

Too many eggs. So little time!

The grass is the best part. Why were you hiding it in the bottom of the basket?

Kelland and Maryn bask in the spoils of the hunt.

Kelland and Mom.

Family Easter pic.

The Villarreals went to Hot Springs with us for Easter pictures. Leah, Demitri and Maryn.

Next stop: Oaklawn Horse Track. Kelland helps William and Leah pick the winning horse.

Kelland congratulates William on picking the best horse.

After Easter church service Kelland came home for another Easter egg hunt. The Easter bunny must have been very busy this year.

Kelland found all the eggs and was ready for a nap.

Kelland is Starting to Walk!!!

2010-02-25T21:17:00.002-06:00

After four months of cruising Kelland is finally starting to take some steps on his own. He's getting really good at standing up on his own, but he's still a little shaky once the feet start moving. I think it's only a matter of time before he's running all over the house.

The Birthday Dinner

2010-02-24T15:51:00.001-06:00

After Kelland's birthday party ended he went down for a quick power nap. After that we were off to a local Mexican food restaurant for more festivities. Kelland was a real trooper; he stayed up 2 hours later than normal and was in a good mood the whole time (or at least most of the time). He had a special birthday surprise at the restaurant. Check out the video.

Kelland's First Birthday Party

2010-02-23T11:42:00.000-06:00

This past Saturday we celebrated Kellands' first birthday. We had a great turnout of friends and family for the festivities. The party started around noon and went until about four. Kelland partied right on through his naptime and never got fussy - although, his eyelids did get a little heavy towards the end of the party. We really appreciate everyone who made the trip to celebrate the very special day. Hope you enjoy the pictures.

A New Addition to the Family!

2010-02-10T12:10:00.002-06:00

A couple of weeks ago we welcomed the arrival of Kelland's new brother - an eight week old, light colored, furry golden retriever named Bernie. Initially they weren't quite sure what to think of each other; then, Bernie realized that Kelland makes a really good chew toy. We're still working through that part, but they seem like they're warming up to each other and will some day be really good buddies.

Kelland Has a New Toybox!!!

2010-01-24T15:25:00.004-06:00

Kelland had such a fruitful Christmas that we had to find a place to store all of his new toys. After several weeks we finally finished his new toybox. We put it in his room this morning and he had a lot of fun loading it with his loot.

Bye Bye Bye

2010-01-19T20:55:00.006-06:00

Kelland is working hard to perfect his wave. Right now he's trying to figure out whether he is supposed to wave to himself or to another person. Check out the video below and see for yourself.

Mohawk please....

2010-01-16T13:54:00.003-06:00

Ryan has been practicing his hairdressing skills. I think he has mastered the faux hawk! Kelland is getting close to needing his first haircut and we hope he doesn't ask the barber for a mohawk.

Kelland wants to give a shout out to his girl Claire Amos - Happy First Birthday Claire!!

Christmas 2009 a.k.a. Kelland's First Christmas

2010-01-03T13:57:00.013-06:00

Kelland had an exciting first Christmas in Texas. He was even blessed with a white Christmas. Kelland enjoyed seeing all of his family and loves playing with his new toys. His first Christmas was at home with Mom and Dad in Little Rock on Christmas eve morning. Christmas eve and day were spent in Garland with the Holmes Family. He put cookies and carrots on the fire place, but did not wait up too long to see santa. Kelland got so many presents that we could not pack them all in the car for the ride back home. Kelland's third Christmas was in Longview with the Guillory Family. He was exhausted after opening all those presents and took a long nap on the car ride back to Little Rock.

Kelland in his Christmas outfit looking very festive.

The Santa suit was adorable. He looked like a little elf with his ears sticking out of the hat.

Pops, Aunt Liz, Brandon and Ryan took the dogs out to the farm before we all left Longview.

Kelland in his new hat with Laura.

Jeff Miller, Kelland and Ryan. Happy birthday Jeff!!

Ryan and Laura both got rubber boots for Christmas!

You can see some of Kelland's teeth. He has 4 now!

Brandon and Marisa.

Kelland, Pops and Pawpaw

Kelland opening a fun present!

Jaxson giving Kelland a kiss.

Kelland, Nikolas and Jaxson conspiring together.

Kelland was very proud of his ability to climb stairs.

Surrounded by toys from Santa.

Nikolas and Jason are playing with the light sabers that Santa brought them. They also have a new train table.

Kelland would make a cute reindeer.

Santa (Gampy) and all the grandkids. Kelland, Jaxson, Mia and Nikolas.

Grandma Duke and the boys.

It was a white Christmas and Kelland's first time to see and touch snow!

Ryan, Kelland, Bijou, Mimi and Marisa. I think Kelland was attacking Bijou.

The boys were sooo cute in their Christmas PJs.

All the grandkids in matching PJs getting ready to set out the milk and cookies for Santa.

Kelland gets a new car from Uncle William and Aunt Leah a few days before Christmas.

Christmas Eve morning in Little Rock. Kelland gets big blocks and he loves knocking them down.

Kelland and his gifts from Santa!

This was a few weeks before Christmas and Kelland was picking out which presents he wanted to open.

Pilfering through the presents.

Kelland was helping us put up Christmas ornaments.

and eating a few in the process.

He really liked the breakable ornaments.

Kelland's first trip to the tree farm to pick out our Christmas tree.

Kelland and Dad searching for the perfect tree.

Thanksgiving 2009

2009-12-03T12:45:00.000-06:00

Kelland made his first trip to Louisiana for Thanksgiving. Almost the entire Guillory clan made it out to Alexandria for Thanksgiving. We missed Annette and her family. Kelland had many firsts. His first time to see a roasted pig, his first trip to Mamou, his first time in a bar, his first dance to zydeco music, and his first time on a giant slide. Sorry the post is delayed, but the holidays are always crazy and we are just now settling down.

The camp house in Mamou, Louisiana

Kelland and Pops on a lake road.

Kelland and Aunt Liz in Mamou.

Marisa and Ryan on the big slide.

Abbey, Laura and Marisa on the slide.

Kelland dancing to zydeco music at Fred's Lounge.

The French Cajun band at Fred's.

Abbey and Graham dancing at Fred's.

The family at Fred's on the Saturday after Thanksgiving.

Kelland made a friend at Fred's.

The Guillory Family at Lake Kincaid in Louisiana.

Kelland's first ride on the big slide.

Galen and Brandon roasting the pig.

Brandon enjoying a little pig skin.

Gigi, Abbey, Marisa and Kelland

The pig at the end of the roast.

Cousin Neil.

Brandon and Graham

Abbey and Marisa in the bounce house.

Kelland and Abbey

Gigi and Kelland

GT (Grande Tia) Jo and Kelland

Kelland and Graham

The pig roaster and over 50 pounds of charcoal.

Uncle Paul and Kelland in their PJs

Don't ask.

Marisa, Ryan and Uncle Paul

Brandon and Jane

Garan and Graham

Pops and Pawpaw

Kelland has a new cousin!!

2009-11-15T09:40:00.000-06:00

Mia Breanne Barr was born November 13th, 2009. Weighs 7 pounds and 1 oz. She is the youngest child and only daughter of Marinda and Cash. Mia is the first grand-daughter in Marisa's family. We are very excited!!

She is beautiful!

Four generations! Grandma Duke, Mimi, Marinda and Mia.

Mia is already wearing her fancy hat!

She is sooo bundled up that you can barely see her in the car seat.

Aunt Marisa with Marinda and Mia.

Kelland is glad to have someone new to play with!!

Cash, Marinda and Mia.

The proud mom!

That sweet face will bring a tear to your eye! Mia is adorable!!

October 2009

2009-11-11T14:08:00.013-06:00

Kelland had a very busy October and plenty of photo ops to show! Sorry for the delay.

Kelland helps decorate the front porch for Halloween and Thanksgiving.

Using a sippy cup like a big boy!

Kelland had fun on a recent road trip to Texas. It was his first over-night without mom and dad. Here he is with Gampy.

Kelland had tons of fun with his cousins at the Dallas Arboretum in the pumpkin patch.

Marinda, her boys and one on the way!

Nikolas and Jackson

Marisa's family - sans Ryan, Dad, Carson and Cash. I guess some people have to go to work during the day.

Mimi and her grandsons in the pumpkin house.

Kelland's first wagon ride. Nikolas helped him stay inside the wagon.

Jaxson and his little pumpkin.

I don't know what Nikolas was feeding Kelland, but I'm sure it was good!

We went to Austin for Justin Ross's wedding. It was our first trip without Kelland. We were sad without our little man.

We walked around UT's campus.

Ryan and his highschool crew hanging out at Zilker Park after Justin and Amber's wedding.

The newly married Justin Ross

Marisa and Bevo.

Kelland is such a little angel!

Kelland and PawPaw Guillory.

Finally...I can carry my own pacifier.

Getting ready for Halloween!

Kelland was a little tiger for his first Halloween.

He went on a walk around the neighborhood, but no candy this year.

Soooo scary!

"I can't believe mom left me in the leaves all alone."

Kelland and Maryn Villarreal. Maryn is the daughter of our friends Leah and Demitri, here in Little Rock.

Ryan has been brewing beer for the last 2 months. It has been fun and easier than expected. Here are the first two types of beer he brewed.

"How you doing?"

More deep thoughts by Kelland.

Kelland and Maryn are getting a little too close!

Crawlin' and Cruisin'

2009-10-17T18:54:00.005-05:00

Crawlin' and cruisin' - that's just what Kelland's been up to lately.

This is the first time that we've witnessed Kelland "cruising". One second we were taking pictures of him standing at the table; then, before we knew it, he had turned around and was holding on to the excersaucer behind him.

Kelland eats some crackers

I can never seem to sneak up on him. He's always got his eye on me.

Kelland has a pretty cool assortment of bath towels. (And, of course, they're all monogrammed). I think this one is supposed to be a bull.

He really enjoys riding on shoulders.

Dressed up in our Sunday best

Hanging out with friends

Ever since Kelland began working for UPS he's been really tired.

This is right when we took off for a walk...

...halfway through the walk Kelland's hat slipped down over his eyes and he slipped off into sleepy time...

Now we're getting somewhere

2009-09-27T11:57:00.004-05:00

This morning Kelland showed the first signs of crawling forward (rather than crawling backwards like he's been doing the past couple of weeks). We managed to record a little bit of it with the camera, and we put together a little video. Take a look for yourself. Make sure you're volume is turned up so that you can appreciate the full experience.

First Movie Short

2009-09-21T20:40:00.004-05:00

I just finished putting this little video together. I know it's probably not going to win any awards, but this is our first attempt at video editing. If you notice the date you'll see that we're little late at getting this posted. But hey, better late than never.

Another Trip to Texas

2009-09-16T20:38:00.008-05:00

Over the Labor Day Weekend we loaded up the car and headed to Texas to some friends and family. We started out by heading to Dallas; then we drove on over to Garland to see Marisa's family. On our way back to Little Rock we stopped through Longview so that Abbey and Kelland could spend some time together (it had been over a month since they'd seen each other).

Kelland gets a little bored during the car ride.

Once we arrive at the Gannon's house in Dallas Kelland makes himself at home.

Blythe Gannon struts her stuff in her fancy pink shades

Kelland puts on his sweet face while hanging out with Aunt Erica

Blythe stares deeply into the camera

Other people's toys are so much fun to play with

Kelland accidentally lifts Blythes dress while we were taking pictures

Kona: "Hello Kelland."

Kelland the Pirate Monkey conquers the play mat at Marisa's parents' house.

Kelland rolled himself up in the beach towel like a burrito

We all spent the afternoon hanging out by the Holmes's pool

Marisa's nephews had a big time swimming.

Kelland relaxes in the pool - he really seems to like the water.

"Geronimo!!!"

"Look out below!!!"

Mom and Kelland hang out in the shallow end

There's nothing quite like a post-swim swing...

...except for a post-swim DOG PILE!!!

Aunt Abbey and Kelland hang out at the lakehouse

We have the same eyebrows...

This picture doesn't really show it well, but trust me - Kelland was acting a fool and had everyone cracking up.

Kelland doing what he does best on a boat

When we home that evening we gave Kelland a bath. It was the first time that he sat up for the whole bath. He was laughing, yelling and splashing the water - he had a blast.

I'm clean.

Kelland starts to babble, tries to crawl and much more!!!

2009-08-27T21:24:00.007-05:00

It's been a while since our last post. Kelland has been busy this past month. He's starting to sit up on his own a little better and is now sitting in his high-chair to eat dinner. He has started to babble a little bit.

Hanging out in the exersaucer

Deep thoughts...by Kelland

We've also made great strides in Kelland's comprehension.

"Kelland, where are your ears?"...

"...and where are your feet?"

Ryan's parents came in town a few weeks ago on a random weekend to spend the night.

GiGi is feeding Kelland some oh-so-delicious rice cereal

Here he is demonstrating just how at home he feels in the high-chair

More meal time

The aftermath...

Kelland and Pops hang out in the big chair together

Here you can see Kelland with his legs slightly pulled up under himself - the beginning stages of crawling

Self portrait with Kelland in the Baby Bjorn

Kelland had a mini photo shoot the other day. He was laying on this red blanket on the ground when he started rolling around and pulling the blanket over his face. It was too cute to pass up.

Last weekend we we all loaded up the car and headed down to Texas to spend the weekend at Lake Cherokee. We got to spend Saturday afternoon with Jerry and the Kauffmans.

Kelland's Baptism and the Fourth of July

2009-07-19T20:12:00.009-05:00

This past month has been pretty busy. Kelland has gotten to hang out with his friend Claire (Lindsey and Austin Amos's daughter) several times. We went to Lake Cherokee for the fourth of July. This past weekend Kelland was baptised!!!

Kelland eats peas. You can't tell from the picture, but he really likes them.

Teething

Kelland's very stylish velour jumpsuit

Kelland has found his feet

This is the first time that Kelland has sat up on his own.

Here he is from the side

Maris and Austin chat while Kelland and Claire relax

Kelland and Claire hang out together.

They looked a little concerned when we caught them holding hands.

"Are you sure you dropped your contact over here?..."

Kelland's Baptism

A family photo after the baptism

Uncle William and Aunt Leah came out to support Kelland on his big day

Kelland sports the outfit that his Great Aunt Jenny gave him for the post-baptism brunch at our house.

More teething - Kelland seems to put everthing into his mouth that he is able to get his hands on.

Here he is sitting up on his own with some of his toys.

He really likes playing with his feet.

Kelland and his extra-manly father.

Kelland and his mom

Marisa, Kelland, Blythe, and Erica

Here they are with Leah. Leah and Demetri are expecting their first child (a little girl) in just one month.

The Terminator

Hanging out at the lake. Kelland loved floating in the water in his new life jacket.

Abbey had several of her friends out to the lake for the fourth.

Marisa, Abbey, Kelland and I cool off in the water

Kelland dries off after his dip in the lake

The Newlyweds!!!

Marisa, Kelland and Pops

GiGi and Kelland relax on the couch

Fish Fry in Roxton!

2009-07-15T20:59:00.001-05:00

A few weeks ago Marisa's grandparents had a fish-fry at their farm in Roxton, TX to celebrate several birthdays in the family. Ryan was on call and wasn't able to make it, Marisa and Kelland made the journey and had a big time.

Kelland tries out the Exersaucer for the first time. He was fascinated by it all.

Jaxson, Nikolas and Kelland

Marinda supervises the kids in the kiddie pool

Aaarrrgh!!! It's a pirate!

Quiet time with Gampy

Marisa's uncle Scot cooks up the fish

Marinda and Grandma Duke hard at work in the kitchen

Kelland Eats From a Spoon!!!

2009-06-17T21:41:00.004-05:00

Last night was the first time that we tried feeding Kelland with a spoon. As expected, things got very messy. When it was all said and done we stripped Kelland down and hosed him off in the sink - literally! All in all I think he really enjoyed it. Take a look at the pics.

Kelland Rolls Over!!!

2009-05-31T21:31:00.006-05:00

That's been the big news out of our house lately. Kelland is now able to roll over from his stomach to his back. We've got a video of it, but I have to figure out how to edit it down so that I can upload it to the site. Until then, just take my word for it - he really can roll over (sometimes).

Here are some pics of what we've been up to this past month.

All dressed up before we head out to a friend's wedding

He's working his way through his books much quicker than we ever imagined.

Here are some great shots that Marisa got the other day in his room.

We went to Lake Cherokee this past weekend. We got to hang out with the Kauffmans, Jacob and Jerry while we were there - much fun was had by all.

Charlie Kauffman

Charlie and his mom Jenny

Ryan tries his hand at skiing

Wipe Out!

Nap time

On the boat...

2009-05-09T20:18:00.017-05:00

I can't believe it's already been a few weeks since our last post. Here's a look at what we've been up to recently...

Marisa and Kelland went to Garland at the end of April for a "Sip and See"

Kelland gets ready for the party

Marisa and Kelland work the crowd

Paw-Paw Duke helps with the refreshments

Kelland has some quiet time with Grandma Duke

We met William and Leah at the Flying Fish one night - Kelland hung out in his car seat while we had dinner

One can only imagine why he's smiling...

Kelland tries on his new house shoes

We had some great weather a couple of weekends ago, we decided to introduce Kelland to the Ouachita Trail. We took our chairs out and sat by the lake for a while. It was great way to pass the afternoon.

Here I am, loaded down with baby and chairs

This was the first time we used the Baby Bjorn

Looks like an ad for Sunglass Hut

This one reminds me of Bill Murray from Caddyshack

Marisa was on call during the last week of April so her mom stayed with us to help take care of Kelland while we were working.

Deep thoughts...

Last weekend we headed to Longview to see some fam. There was also a shower going on for Laura (Brandon's fiance). While there Kelland met his Grand Aunt Joan for the first time.

Marisa, Laura, and Abbey have a hard time staying focused

Here they finally get it right - all those sorority pics finally paid off

Dad and Stella captain the boat

Setting off for an evening cruise

Kelland and Brandon have a staring contest. Kelland won, of course. He then went on to ask Brandon why he would mettle in matters that he couldn't possibly understand

This is Kelland on his very first boat ride

Marisa on her 127th boat ride

Does this man know how to boat or what?

One of us needs a haircut

Straitjacket

This is Abbey's dog Stella - in addition to being 12 weeks old she is also very cute

Kelland and Pops

Kelland Chills in His Swing

2009-04-19T22:22:00.002-05:00

Kelland and Marisa went to Dallas this weekend for a baby shower. I stayed back in Little Rock to hold down the fort. It's good to have Kelland and Marisa back at home. Kelland was happy to get back to his swing - he's sporting a pair of glasses he got at his shower. We'll try and post more pictures later this week.

2009-04-12T15:10:00.005-05:00

The past couple of weeks have been pretty busy. While we haven't taken anymore road trips we have been on the go around town. Kelland finally took his first trip to Home Depot - I'm not sure how much he remembers. He slept the whole time we were there.

This weekend he went to his first Happy Hour. Marisa, Leah, William, Kelland and I all went to Cajun's to sit on there deck overlooking the river. It was a beautiful sunny day, but the wind was a little chilly. Everyone was much happier once we moved inside.

We also took him to church for the first time. OK, so maybe it wasn't a real church service. But it was our Sunday School class's Easter Sunday potluck. Fortunately we got Kelland to eat right before we left the house so he was pretty calm while we were there and therefore made a good first impression.

Kelland still isn't sleeping through the night just yet. Some nights he'll go anywhere from 4-6 hours between feedings which gives Marisa a little bit of a break. Then, there are still nights where he wants to eat every 2 1/2 - 3 hours. We hope that he starts to stretch his nightime feedings out a little more regularly because Mom is ready to sleep.

Kelland kicks back on the couch to pass the afternoon.

Mom and Kelland in the kitchen

Kelland practices the air piano

Here he's a playing a more soulful number

More bathtime photos - he's a little chunkier here than he was in his initial bath photos

Kelland looks suspiciously at Dad

Kelland enjoys being clean after his bath - he usually stays clean for anywhere from 5-10 minutes

Catching some Z's. He's grown quite fond of the pacifier.

Here he models one of his new bath towels given to him by Will Mundinger

Kelland and Dad take a quick nap before heading out for dinner

His first trip to Home Depot - we were putting in some new light fixtures in our house.

Marisa looking a bit delerious

Here's the worksite

Kelland likes to explore his toys with all of his senses

Asleep in his crib - you can't fake that.

Here we are on the deck of Cajun's - the sun was bright and the wind was cold

Leah and William hung out with us at Cajun's

Marisa on the deck of Cajun's

William was all smiles once we got inside where it was a bit warmer - Kelland quickly fell asleep

Kelland sports his Easter outfit - the feet remind me of the pink bunny suit that Ralphie wears in "A Christmas Story"

The outfit even has a tail

Mom and Kelland Easter morning

On the way home from Church - not sure what to make of this expression

Kelland's First Trip to Texas!!!

2009-03-30T21:18:00.016-05:00

This past week Marisa and I were both off. So, we loaded up the car and took Kelland out for his first road trip. We had several stops along the way - we all spent the night in Dallas with our friends the Gannons (Greg and Erica). Erica is currently pregnant (with only about a month and a half to go) so she got a little practice with Kelland.

While in Dallas we had lunch with some our friends - Ben, Will, Campbell, and Chamlee. It was great catching up with everyone.

From Dallas we started back east to Garland. There we spent a couple of nights in Garland; Kelland got to meet his great-grandparents (Marisa's grandparents).

After 2 nights in Garland we continued eastward to Longview. In Longview Kelland met Paw-Paw Bruce, his great-grandfather on my side of the family. We had a big family dinner one night and some our close family friends - the Berrys and the Gors - came over for the evening. As you'll see from the pictures Kelland didn't have much down time. He had a lot of people to mingle with and not a lot of time to do it.

Hope you enjoy the pictures.

That's all...

Kelland is One Month Old!!!

2009-03-22T13:04:00.011-05:00

Well, the first month has come and gone. It's been a pretty busy month for Kelland; he's been to Target, Hobby Lobby, the grocery store, he's been on several walks, 2 crawfish boils, he's been to the park, and he's gone through what seems like a couple thousand diapers. Here's to many more good months to come...

Kelland tries his best to do a magic trick

Mom and Kelland hang out at the park

Kelland and Michelle swap stories at the crawfish boil

I don't think he's laughing

The 2 Week Check-Up

2009-03-09T20:04:00.007-05:00

Kelland went to see the doctor yesterday for his 2 week check-up. He weighed 7 pounds and 14 ounces (that's up from his birth weight of 6 pounds 10 ounces). His length held steady at 19 1/2 inches. With a little help from Dr. Becton his umbilical stump finally came off...and much to his mom's delight it looks like Kelland has an "innie". See for yourself.

A Fun-Filled Weekend

2009-03-09T08:20:00.010-05:00

This past weekend was pretty action packed for Kelland. On Saturday we took him to his first crawfish boil - Ryan had his annual ENT exam and afterwards one of the attendings had a post test crawfish boil at his house. Kelland was on his best behavior (He slept the whole time we were there). It felt good to have a positive experience with our first social outing.

On Sunday we went on our first family walk. The weather was perfect - it was so nice outside. Again, Kelland slept the whole time...if we could just get him to sleep at night. After our walk it was feeding time for Kelland; then, we all headed out to the grocery store. He was a little fussy while at the store, but I don't think he caused a scene.

It was a fun weekend and it felt really great to get out of the house for a while. Here are the pictures.

Kelland and family at the crawfish boil.

Dr. Shipp boiling up the crawfish.

Dad and Kelland on their maiden voyage.

Kelland was helping mom pick out green beans.

A Changing of the Guards

2009-03-01T19:49:00.000-06:00

Well, the first week has come to an end. Mimi (Marisa's mom) stayed with us for the first week to help with adjusting to life with a new baby. On Friday she left and GiGi (Ryan's mom) came into town to help out with the second week. That weekend Ryan's whole family (Uncle Brandon, Aunt Abbey, Aunt Laura, and Pops) also came into town to visit. Everyone had a good time and there was no shortage of attention for Kelland.

Mimi is about to hit the road

A quick family photo

Aunt Abbey and Kelland get to know each other

Aunt Laura is all smiles - Uncle Brandon is not quite sure what to think

But, he decides to try his hand at feeding

Aunt Laura is a natural (Watch out Brandon!!!)

Ryan and Kelland are learning about Gradenigo's Syndrome

Roxy doesn't know where she is

Kelland's First Bath

2009-02-25T17:17:00.001-06:00

By day of life #5 Kelland started to smell a little ripe; so, we decided it might be a good time for his first bath.

Uncle William and Aunt Leah came over to visit after bathtime.

Kelland's First Doctor Visit

2009-02-23T11:28:00.005-06:00

On Monday Kelland went to see his pediatrician (Dr. Becton) for his newborn visit. He was a little bit jaundiced, but his bilirubin level checked out OK. All in all it was a good visit - no shots.

Leaving the Hospital and Heading Home

2009-02-22T18:30:00.001-06:00

By Sunday (2 days after the delivery) Marisa and Kelland were both doing so well that we were sent home.

A trial run in the car seat - you can see that Kelland was kicking his legs with delight.

Our room looked like a small arboretum by the time we left.

All packed up and ready to go.

The first of many photo shoots

Kelland Bruce Guillory Arrives!!!

2009-02-20T20:03:00.006-06:00

After a long, and not exactly enjoyable labor, Kelland Bruce arrived via C-section. He weighed 6 pounds 10 ounces and measured 19 1/2 inches long. All fingers and toes are accounted for. People seem to feel he looks more like Mom than Dad...which is a good thing.

Gampy (Marisa's Dad)

Mimi (Marisa's Mom)

Uncle Carson (Marisa's brother)

Uncle Cash, Aunt Marinda, and Cousin Jaxson (Marisa's sister's family)

GiGi and Pops (Ryan's Parents)

Our first family photo