The Matthews Milestones

30

2012-02-12T15:39:00.002-07:00

Jackson's Mama turned 30 on January 27th (!) We celebrated with Yellow Duck muffins sent from Nana, Granddaddy, and Uncle Bret in Virginia. Plus, some pretty flowers arrived!

Jackson poses with our 'cake!'

Guess who placed the candles?

Crayon Hearts

2012-01-22T17:23:00.001-07:00

I've always wanted to make crayon hearts, so Jackson and I made this our project for today.

LOVE

Snow Time

2012-01-21T18:41:00.001-07:00

We finally got our first big snow of the season. Barrie spent a lot of time today with some hockey pals creating a skating rink on our neighborhood pond. Jackson's getting steadier on his skates, so we are excited to skate in our back yard!

Zach came by and gave Jack Attack a snowmobile ride!

Mama made Jackson some hot chocolate to warm him up.

Soooooo Goooooood!

OJ with a Smile

2012-01-07T17:09:00.000-07:00

Mama and Jackson made some fresh-queezed orange juice this morning. Mmm!

Jackson strikes a pose.

J and B enjoy a juice break.

Greetings 2012. Nice to be back, Miles City.

2012-01-02T12:35:00.000-07:00

We made it back to MC on New Year's Day. So thankful for all our blessings in 2011 and looking forward to what is to come in 2012.

My guys taking care of the luggage. Poor Panda Bear got the ride of his life!

A nice bubble bath to relax after a long day of travel!

Daddy loves Jackson!

And so does Mama!

Goodbye 2011. See you soon, ESVA.

2012-01-02T08:13:00.001-07:00

Our Virginia trip has come to an end ... We spent the last few days of 2011 soaking in some Shore memories. Besides seeing our sweet family, here are our favorites for this visit ~ Anna: sweet potato fries, sweet potato pie, and sweet potato biscuits, plus Yellow Duck muffins and rugala. Jackson: Cooking with Nana and playing cars with Uncle Bret. Barrie: He's not here as I write this, but I'm going to take a wild guess and say that his favorite was hunting with the cousins. He got two ducks (black and bufflehead) and one doe.

Great Grandma and Jackson ... there is an 89 year age difference between these two!

Get your motor running!

These two sure love their great grandson ...

And their granddaughter sure loves them!

Nana and Jackson wait for some yummy seafood at the Wachapreague Island House.

Jack Attack with Cousins Hannah and Mason. They are BOTH the best!

Dad and Bret at the Drummond Farm party.

Sure feels like home.

The distance to the moon and back doesn't seem all that far. How about to the edge of the Milky Way and back?!

To Great Grandma's House We Go!

2011-12-29T06:45:00.003-07:00

We celebrated the Mills Christmas on the 26th at Grandma's house ... Grandma, Danny, Ann, Virginia Leigh, Joe, Leah, Brett, Mills, Carolyn, Beth, Pop, Mom, Dad, Bret, Barrie, Anna, and Jackson were there (the whole crew plus two dogs and a baby-to-be (just to clarify: Leah's and Brett's)!).

Cuddles with Nana

Cuddles with Granddaddy

Cousins Part I

Cousins Part II

Cousins Part III

Enjoying a treat with Uncle Bret

Mama and Jackson

Grandma and her Major Award

Christmas on the Shore

2011-12-28T15:07:00.003-07:00

We made it home for Christmas! There's nothing like the holidays on the Eastern Shore.

Mills Christmas Tree, totally legal!

Hooray! More camo!

Uncle Bret got Jackson some Hot Wheels

Jackson teaches Great Granddaddy a little about technology

Playing moon dough with Granddaddy

Hockey Sticks

2011-12-23T08:25:00.000-07:00

Coach Daddy took Jackson out on the ice for the first time this week. Barrie is coaching the Learn to Skate kids this year and Jackson is just about the youngest out there. He is already much better than Mama will ever be!

Getting ready in the locker room.

All set!

It's pretty slippery out on the ice!

Zeider helps the little guy out.

Coach Barrie talks to the kids.

And Jackson's done for the night!

Matthews Christmas

2011-12-22T17:17:00.003-07:00

The Matthews celebrated Christmas (and Bubbles's birthday) on the 18th. Cheers!

The Merry Matthews

Jackson and Ronnie open some presents!

Anything "Cars" is sure to be a big hit!

Zeider installs the batteries.

The boys strike a pose!

Three Years

2011-12-15T06:43:00.000-07:00

Our little darling turned THREE YEARS OLD on the 6th! How did that happen?! I love to tell the story of how perfect his arrival was ... I had just turned in my last final exam (I was still in my master's program at the time) around 10 pm the night before and woke up at 5 the next morning knowing that it was THE day. Plus, my Mom arrived from Virginia just 40 minutes before Jackson was born. Just perfect! Our Jackson has spoiled us by being such an easy-going, loving, smart, funny, and cuddly little guy.

Mama's Boy ...

AND Daddy's Boy!

Getting crafty.

Snug in his new robe!

There's a reason as to why this cake has a piece missing. That's a story for another day.

Our sweet blessing of a boy!

Jack Attack Gets Glasses

2011-12-05T19:32:00.001-07:00

We had discovered that the little guy is having some trouble with his eyes. Off to the optomotrist we went ... it was determined that he is farsighted and needs glasses. We chose some super cool Spiderman frames and our darling boy has become even more handsome ... was that even possible?

Nana Came to Visit!

2011-12-05T19:24:00.001-07:00

We are so thankful that the weather cooperated for Nana's trip to MC! Jackson had fun with his best playmate ... they played trains, read books, watched movies, and snuggled lots. Mama played second fiddle the whole time! :)

Leaning in for some kisses!

Smiles!

Cuddle time

The master chef teaches Nana how to bake the perfect cupcake

Thank you for visiting us, Nana! We love you!

Play Doh!

2011-11-12T19:24:00.001-07:00

Total concentration ... he wouldn't even look up to smile for the camera.

Hours of fun!

Making Memories ... and Messes

2011-11-12T09:22:00.001-07:00

With Daddy is Texas this weekend, Jackson is enjoying lots of 'Mama's boy' time (he's often a rough-and-tumble Daddy's boy). This morning, we had some fun finger painting.

The artist at work!

Choosing just the right color for the sun.

Little Darlings

2011-11-08T18:44:00.004-07:00

Jackson and his best friend went to a bounce house carnival at a local church this past weekend.

Sweet Pals

Holding hands ...

... STILL holding hands ...

And now some hugging action!

Surprised he's not holding a pretty girl's hand going down the slide?!

Tron ... He fights for the Users!

2011-11-02T06:25:00.000-06:00

Tron is ready (memory disc in hand) to conquer the grid.

We visit our first user: Dudie Pizza (aka Susie).

Back at home: A pretty pirate arrives!

Now let's go get some CANDY!

Please and Thank You! Happy Halloween!

Jackson-O-Lanterns

2011-10-30T19:12:00.002-06:00

Jackson's been looking forward to pumpkin carving all weekend!

Mama and Jackson pose with the unsuspecting pumpkins.

We must both be saying "Ewww ... pumpkin guts!"

Mama has to do the icky part ... cleaning out the pumpkins.

What shall we carve?

How about a cute face like this one?

Or a silly one and candy corn!

J-a-c-k-s-o-n

2011-10-26T17:57:00.002-06:00

Jackson can now spell his own name - unprompted, unassisted! Hooray for our smart kiddo!

Porch Time

2011-10-23T07:16:00.002-06:00

We've been enjoying some nice Fall weather lately. Jackson LOVES blowing bubbles on the front porch ... must be because of summer memories (blowing bubbles with Nana on the swing in Virginia!).

Fall Creations

2011-10-21T17:03:00.003-06:00

Jackson has been making some fun projects at daycare ... most of them are on display on our fridge!

Apple

Fall Wreath

Handprint Spider

Handprint apple with a thumbprint leaf and stem

Orange Pumpkin

Black Bat

Pumpkin Patch Kids

2011-10-21T16:20:00.004-06:00

We made our yearly trip to the Pumpkin Patch with some friends a couple weeks ago ...the kids loved picking out their pumpkins and watching one being catapulted into the river!

Jackson and Daddy scope out the perfect pumpkin.

Jackson was talking about this sweetie all weekend!

Looking for the Great Pumpkin.

Mama's best boys!

Jackson had some rug burn on his face ... oh, the hazards of dancing!

The gals and their little darlins!

The guys and their little buddies!

Potty Power Continued ...

2011-09-29T20:41:00.005-06:00

Today Jackson brought home his first completed potty chart from daycare. We're working on finishing up one at home too. Not only is he proud of himself, but he cheers us on as well ... "You can do it!" "Good job (with thumbs up)" I asked Jackson if he wanted to go to DQ as a reward for finishing his chart, but he asked for two Oreo cookies instead. A well deserved treat!

Fair = End of Summer

2011-08-30T05:58:00.009-06:00

We and some friends took our sweet kids to the fair to ride the rides. Barrie bought a cow (MOO) and a pig (OINK) at the 4-H auction. Our freezer will be full for some time ... YUM!

Daddies are the greatest

Jackson and his Daddy

Go Speed Racer!

I think Mama's more excited than the kids to ride the blue dino.

We love our little darlins'

Jackson threw the baseball 5 MILES AN HOUR!

Pals

J's Space

2011-08-19T20:42:00.006-06:00

I finally finished painting Jackson's room! It is so much better than the wallpaper that was up before. And, the color scheme goes with all the baseball plaques.

Bubba! This one's for Aunt Wanda, Uncle Wilson, and Marie! (Bubba has been my buddy since I was little ... now, he has a new buddy).

Okay, now we'll show you downstairs. Follow Jackson!

This is Jackson's 'study spot' in the den. I tried to brighten it up by adding Eric Carle prints. He seems to love it, which is what I was going for :)

Soaking up Summer Vacation ...

2011-08-19T05:39:00.007-06:00

... what's left of it, anyway!

We went to the Holy Rosary carnival, jumped in the bounce house, and enjoyed some delicious junk food!

Here are our geese all grown up.

Anna and Barrie went to the Sidney fair to see Dierks Bentley in concert. We were five feet away from the stage ... small town fairs are the best.

Manly men ... the Balsam Block Party planners.

Balsam residents begin to arrive ... that is the back of our house.

Great neighbors, great times!

Hanging out by the dessert end of the table. Like Mama, like son.

Jackson enjoying a visit with his best girl!

Visiting the Dentist

2011-08-02T09:12:00.005-06:00

Jackson had his first 'real' dental appointment on Monday. He LOVED his hygienist but wasn't too sure about his dentist ... just kidding, Dr. Barrie!

Kristi preps the patient.

All set for a cleaning with Bre!

Counting teeth.

Big Boy Bed

2011-07-28T17:37:00.004-06:00

We recently converted Jackson's crib into a toddler bed and have had NO problems at bedtime or naptime so far. Jackson seems simply thrilled with his 'new' bed!

Great for sleeping, reading, just relaxing, ....

... and JUMPING!

Petting Zoo

2011-07-28T17:01:00.006-06:00

Mama, Daddy, Bubah, and Jackson went to the Ace Hardware petting zoo last week. We saw a kangaroo, tortoises, goats, a camel, cavies, llamas, and other cool critters. The four of us left with all fingers intact.

Return Trip

2011-07-23T14:59:00.003-06:00

Jackson and Mama made it back to Montana late Wednesday night. We are glad to be back with Daddy and are thankful for such a fun summer with our sweet family and friends :)

More Shore Fun

2011-07-23T09:35:00.005-06:00

Checking out the minnows ...

... and crabs.

Four wheeling with Great Granddaddy

Playing cars with Cousin Mills

Granddaddy and Nana

Four Generations of Mills

Kisses for Nana

Where's Jackson?!

Botanical Gardens

2011-07-13T09:03:00.007-06:00

Mama, Nana, Great Nana, and Jackson met 'Aunt' Wanda (Beth's college roommate) for a day visit at the Botanical Gardens!

Checking out the critters in the butterfly house.

See the very hungry caterpillars?

Nana and Great Nana (both are fabulous Nanas, but we have to distinguish them somehow)

A quick kiss for my sweetheart.

Dancing like a bee ... Buzz!

Four generations. Jackson was ready to go to the kids' park.

Getting soaked!

On the tram.

Longwood Roommates and lifetime friends!

Potty Power

2011-07-11T07:51:00.003-06:00

On Friday, Jackson had his first success with potty training ... Hooray!

"I DID IT!"

Thumbs up and hot dog dance.

A yummy reward.

A Week with Daddy

2011-07-10T15:08:00.003-06:00

Barrie (aka Best Daddy Ever) came to see us in Virginia. Jackson was thrilled to wake up and have his Daddy with him! The week went fast, with trips to the beach, visits with both sides of the family, car rides and walks, golfing, and some down time as well.

Matthews Trio reunion.

Getting the fireworks ready for a show (which was soon rained out, but fabulous nonetheless).

Anna and Barrie had a lunch date and visit with cousins Amanda and Taylor ... can't beat the Exmore diner!

Back to the carnival, this time with Daddy.

Jackson rode Great Granddaddy's four wheeler for the first time!

The Fun Continues

2011-06-30T17:38:00.004-06:00

Visiting Great Nana and Granddaddy ... and Oliver the cat, of course

Uncle Bret is the GREATEST! Hours and hours of fun.

Annual Wachapreague Carnival ... Seafood & greasy fries dinner!

Had to ride the 'horseys!' Jackson picked a brown one first.

And then a white one!

Granddaddy and the Ducks ... won some cool prizes!

This is on the Tilt-a-Whirl (a BIG KID ride!!!)

Chincoteague

2011-06-29T16:11:00.004-06:00

Mama, Jackson, and Misty

Ponies ... Jackson loved feeding them corn.

The beach! We stood for wave after wave after wave!

He was a big boy and held Mama's hand.

We lured him away from the water with some sand castle fun (and some Island Creamery ice cream later on!)

A Trip to Salisbury

2011-06-25T07:47:00.008-06:00

Fascinated with the Bear

B is for Bison

Looking at the Prairie Dogs ... as if we don't see enough of those in Montana

The Slide! This was a highlight of the day.

Cars 2 ... Couldn't take his eyes off the screen!

Yes Daddy, we brushed his teeth REALLY well that night :)

Simple Fun

2011-06-23T14:37:00.004-06:00

Yellow Duck Cookie

LOVES Oliver and Great Granddaddy

Happy Father's Day Granddaddy!

Potty Training Continues ...

Future Farmer

2011-06-22T16:29:00.001-06:00

Granddaddy took Jackson on his first tractor ride!

Sweet Summer Time

2011-06-21T19:33:00.005-06:00

All ready for a boat ride!

Waiting for Nana to bring the boat up

Sharing a popsicle break with Mama

King of the Fort! (His pants got wet on the slide)

We had fun at the Broadwater Playground

Out on the Raft!

Virginia!

2011-06-18T06:55:00.003-06:00

Blowing bubbles

with Nana and Mama

and making a big mess!

Sharing a Klondike Bar with Uncle Bret.

Showing off a New Creation!

Playing Cash Register with Granddaddy

Visiting Great Grandma

Pure Delight!

Current Events

2011-06-12T17:28:00.005-06:00

Loving my Little Guy

Watching Our Goose Family Grow

Seeing Bev Graduate Nursing School!

Having Fun at the Gala!

Ditto

A Darling Boy

2011-05-07T13:04:00.005-06:00

A Mother's Day gift made in Daycare!

Loves his new Cars sippy cup :)

Look closely and you can see that dimple that I love!

Easter Love

2011-04-26T19:57:00.004-06:00

Coloring eggs with Mama and Daddy

The Easter Bunny left some prints!

Checking out the Easter basket

Egg hunt at Bubah and Zeider's house!

Jackson and Ronnie share the loot

And away they go!

Sticker Madness

2011-04-21T19:43:00.007-06:00

Jackson's plain white shirt needed a little decoration. After applying each sticker in just the right spot, he would say "One more!" Oh how we love this little guy :)

The Breeze

2011-04-18T20:59:00.005-06:00

Our darling Breezy turns 5 on Tuesday. She joined our family as the first 'baby' in June 2006 and has been a sweet part of our lives ever since. She is known for her ladylike grace ... snoring loud enough to wake the house, drooling on the couch, nabbing snacks from Jackson when she sees the chance, and simply acting like a dog. Gotta love her!

April Happenings

2011-04-09T13:36:00.007-06:00

Pigging Out: Mama and Jackson went to McDonalds and got Jackson's first Happy Meal. It was a pretty big hit.

Fun with Colors: Jackson's getting really good at identifying colors, even colors like pink, gray and brown. Here, he decided on his own to sort some colored balls onto his color mat.

Spring has Sprung! It has been a long, cold, snowy, (and did I say long?) winter, but signs of Spring are everywhere!

Jackson's Favorite Things, Part 2

2011-04-02T16:30:00.004-06:00

~ Bunny and Lamby
~ Socks. It is very important that Jackson has socks on his feet!
~ Sleeves. He is not quite ready for T-shirts this season.
~ Listening to "Guess How Much I Love You," read by Nana!
~ Smarties/M&Ms ... in England, chocolate candies (M&Ms) are called Smarties. He gets Smarties at Bubah's house.
~ Feeding Breezy. He puts way too much food in the dish.
~ Helping Mama get the mail.
~ Watching Daddy shave in the morning.
~ Kissing booboos better.
~ Making sure everyone has a straw in their drink. Water, soda, juice, coffee, wine ... every drink needs a straw!

Nana Visits Us in Montana

2011-03-29T17:23:00.002-06:00

Jackson's Nana spent two whole weeks with us this month ... oh, it was wonderful! Jackson loved every minute of his time with his favorite playmate. They went for walks, rode the wagon, practiced colors, letters, and numbers, and read lots of books. The little guy even practiced using the potty and wearing his pull-ups!

So happy :)

Nana's birthday! Jackson helped her blow out the candle on her ice cream sandwich cake.

We visited the chicks and bunnies at Murdoch's.

Nana, Daddy, and Mama took Jackson to his first movie in the movie theater! He ate junk food and even drank some soda! The movie (Rango) wasn't the greatest, but we had fun!

On a drive back from Billings, God reminded us that He is with us.

A Few of Jackson's Favorite Things

2011-01-29T07:18:00.002-07:00

~ Playing with his remote control cars
~ Watching movies, especially the 'fish movie' (Nemo)
~ Reading the 'good night sleepyhead' book every night
~ Waking up (he's a morning person just like Daddy)
~ Music and Dancing ... he changes the CDs by himself
~ The three main food groups: Peanut Butter, Eggos, and Bananas
~ The REINDEER SHIRT! He LOVES his reindeer shirt.

2011 Updates

2011-01-16T06:59:00.003-07:00

~ Jackson visited Dr. Young for his Two Year check-up. He weighs 27 pounds!
~ The Holy Rollers were the league champions for Fall 2010! We are taking this semester off.
~ The Matthews house is undergoing some remodeling. We are starting with the guest bathroom, master bedroom/bathroom, and kitchen.
~ Barrie is attending more continuing education seminars in the upcoming months.
~ Anna is starting another online course within her library endorsement program.
~ Jackson's Nana is visiting in March. We can't wait!

2010 Christmas Memories

2011-01-15T10:49:00.005-07:00

A few highlights ...

Jackson and Ronnie were super excited for Christmas!

In Virginia ... trekking through the snow to visit cousins.

Barrie was wiped out from duck hunting, while Anna just had to make it to the next level in Mario.

Jackson made Christmas cookies with Nana!

Granddaddy and Jackson share a Christmas hug.

Great Nana and Jackson (in the high chair that many kids in our family have sat in)

Jackson had an ear infection and wasn't feeling very well, but Nana made everything better!

Birthday Boys

2010-12-07T06:26:00.004-07:00

Barrie and Jackson both have early December birthdays (Dec. 4th and 6th respectively)! Happy Birthday my darlings!

The annual eclair. This year, Jackson blew out the candles!

Sledding with Daddy, Uncle Phil and Ronnie

A slobbery kiss from Jackson's pal Breezy.

Delivering Dictionaries

2010-12-05T18:13:00.001-07:00

Each year, Barrie delivers dictionaries to all the third graders in town on behalf of the local Rotary club. This year, Anna is especially proud because she has been teaching these classes how to use the dictionary. She has learned a lesson, however: no kissing her husband at school! (otherwise, her first grade class will poke fun at her).

Giving Thanks

2010-12-04T07:22:00.004-07:00

The Mills and Matthews families were together for Thanksgiving for the first time this year. So much to be thankful for ...

Master Chef Barrie directs Anna in the art of preparing the Thanksgiving feast.

MILLS

MATTHEWS

MILLS + MATTHEWS

Thank goodness for men who tackle the dreaded Christmas lights!

We are so thankful for baby JESUS! Jackson's job each year is placing Him in the nativity scene (He went in upside-down this year!).

Nana, Granddaddy, and Uncle Bret Are Here!

2010-11-25T06:57:00.003-07:00

The Mills family braved the winter weather advisory to make the trip out to Montana for Thanksgiving!

Granddaddy and Nana LOVE Jackson

Jackson gave Granddaddy some junk food.

Racing cars with Uncle Bret!

Giving Nana a sweet kiss.

Crashing down towers. The remote-control cars are a big hit.

Fly Eagles Fly!

2010-11-05T20:57:00.002-06:00

Jackson's 2nd Halloween ...

E-A-G-L-E-S ... EAGLES!

A rare shot with his helmet on.

Jackson

First house trick-or-treating!

Bubah, Zeider, First Draft Pick

Jackson LOVES Auntie Bev

What a pretty kitty Karlee was!

As usual, showing off the little ones ...

What a way to end the night! A sweet kiss from a new pal.

Amanda Gets Married

2010-11-01T20:41:00.006-06:00

Our cousin Amanda's wedding was last weekend ... she is now Mrs. Taylor Dukes! What a wonderful excuse for us to visit the Shore. I (Anna) was thrilled to read at the wedding and we all loved seeing our sweet family.

Granddaddy's creamscicle kitten is not so little anymore!

My favorite people!

Matthews Trio at the Rehearsal Dinner

Getting to the church on time.

GREAT Nana and Granddaddy

Cousins

Fall at the Big Sky Smile Center

2010-10-25T14:49:00.002-06:00

Don't worry they are sugar free:)

2010-10-25T14:26:00.000-06:00

A Perfect Day for the Pumpkin Patch

2010-10-03T06:51:00.007-06:00

Yesterday, Jackson and two of his sweet pals visited the pumpkin patch for the first time! The kiddos' parents tagged along for the grand photo opportunity.

Jackson spots "the one."

This was right before he threw it like a football.

Pumpkin heads.

Our darling kids.

The whole crew. What a fun day!

Pingu!

2010-09-25T08:04:00.004-06:00

Jackson LOVES Pingu, a very cute claymation penguin. We watch Pingu online practically every day ... over and over and over! Jackson just can't get enough.

E-A-G-L-E-S

2010-09-19T20:31:00.006-06:00

It's that time of year again! Barrie and Jackson, ever the loyal Eagles fans, are excited about the football season. Here's Jackson in his game-day gear.

Q Tips

2010-09-05T21:01:00.002-06:00

I've had to hide the Q-tips because a certain somebody thinks they should stick out of his ears. The other week he was walking around with one sticking out each ear. Yikes!

Back to School

2010-09-05T20:36:00.006-06:00

In case you were wondering, Barrie took over the blog site while I was busy getting ready for school. Well, I've survived a whole week and am loving my job! It's definitely as busy (or even busier) than I expected it to be, but I have a fabulous aide (Lindsey) who makes my life so much easier ... She is simply amazing!

Here are some pictures of my library at the elementary school. It looks better in person. I have kites hanging everywhere.

Hey, I'm no longer a sub!

Lindsey and I have a great office space - it's enclosed, behind the library. It smells nice because I have a scentsy candle on my desk :)

A bulletin board and part of my counter space.

View from behind the circulation desk.

Come check out a book or two!

Story area. I'll read many, many books here!

Fair Weekend

2010-08-28T07:03:00.003-06:00

It's fair weekend so that means summer is over:( For a teacher that means back to work and for a new teacher that means a lot of stress. Tonight is Sawyer Brown and with Zeider babysitting Jackson we should have a good time with good friends. As I like to say - Keep Smiling:)

Milestone Help Is Here:)

2010-08-25T18:38:00.003-06:00

I know it's goofy but Anna is so busy with her new job I feel I need to help with the web page! Watch out for a puck:)

Wanted: Your PRAYERS!

2010-08-19T22:12:00.002-06:00

I have not added much to our little blogspot lately because I have been gearing up for a Very Important job. I will be the librarian at TWO of the schools in our local school district this year. This is a new position: a consolidation of two full-time positions. I am thrilled to be a librarian and am very excited about this year (!), but it will also be a challenge. My school year starts in just one week (kids start on the 30th), so please send those prayers up ASAP. Thanks :)

Mr. President

2010-08-19T21:46:00.005-06:00

Barrie, ever committed to serving his community, is now the president of the Miles City Rotary Club. This year, the third annual Rubber Ducky Round-Up (a Rotary-sponsored fundraiser) was planned to coincide with a trail ride marker dedication ceremony ... the weekend of August 6. Quite a few big cheeses in the world of Rotary came to our little town for the events. Barrie and his fellow Rotarians worked long and hard to make the weekend a very big success!

Little Duck, Big Duck, and Very Big Duck

With the International Rotary President

Barrie giving his very inspiring speech at Riverside Park.

'Babies'

2010-07-28T12:59:00.006-06:00

Jackson, Mama, and Daddy are back in Montana! Jackson is settling right back into life in Miles City. He's rediscovering his toys and has loved seeing Bubah, Zeider, and Miss Patty.

Today he has been running around the house with his two 'babies,' Lamby and Bear. I have never called these stuffed animal friends 'babies' before, so I guess Jackson decided to name them himself!

In other news, Mom called today to say that Piper died. Piper was my cat in Philadelphia who never made it to Montana. She was adopted by my parents in Virginia and quickly fell in love with the dog, Maverick. I am glad Jackson got to see the "meow" this summer!

60th Anniversary

2010-07-27T12:04:00.006-06:00

Nana and Granddaddy also celebrated an anniversary on July 21. They were married in 1950 (60 years ago)! We took them out to dinner at the Eastville Inn for a fantastic family dinner.

Mom ordered a delicious and beautiful cake. Nana cut it with her wedding knife.

Billy and Carrie (we missed Chris, Parke, and Jac)

Janet, Steve, Mason, and Maggie

Mills-Matthews

Nana and Granddaddy with their children (Mark, Steve, Billy, Beth)

The diamond anniversary couple!

Third Anniversary

2010-07-23T15:06:00.006-06:00

Barrie and I were married on July 21, 2007. We celebrated our third anniversary in Chincoteague, Virginia. Our hotel room was an anniversary gift (Thanks Mom and Dad!). It was nice to take a little 'vacation from our vacation' (as Bret put it).

Anna and Misty

Barrie relaxing on the Beach

Went swimming. Walked the beach. Saw dolphins, pelicans, and lots of seagulls.

Drove in on the new causeway and bridge. View from our hotel room.

Rode jet skis and saw the islands from the water.

Here are some of the famous Assateague wild ponies.

We ate ice cream for lunch TWICE at the best ice cream place on the island :) We also had a wonderful seafood dinner at Bill's and watched the sunset from our balcony. So nice!

More of What Jackson's Up To

2010-07-23T14:55:00.002-06:00

Visiting Grandma Mills

Eating watermelon to his heart's content

Playing with the Fisher Price town with Granddaddy

Getting dressed up by Cousin Maggie and Cousin Mason

Bounce

2010-07-14T10:57:00.003-06:00

Jackson's first time in a bounce house! He also went down the big slide with Cousin Maggie and her friend Vera.

Wachapreague Carnival & Va Aquarium

2010-07-10T07:11:00.005-06:00

Jackson's adventures in Virginia continue with trips to the carnival and the aquarium ...

Wachapreague Carnival with Mama, Uncle Bret, Uncle Mark, Nana & Granddaddy Sterling, and Nana & Granddaddy Mills.

Riding the Merry-Go-Round for the first time with Great Uncle Mark. Loved it!

Jackson at the duck game. He picked two ducks himself (looks like he's still eyeing them here).

Virginia Aquarium. The croc and Jackson had a stare down.

Jackson was pretty fascinated with the fish and turtles.

On another Merry-Go-Round in Lynnhaven with Mama!

What Jackson's Up To

2010-07-06T11:07:00.002-06:00

Making messes (and pretending it's an accident)

Watering the plants for Nana

Eating LOTS of watermelon!

We miss you, Daddy!

2010-07-02T14:43:00.005-06:00

Dear Daddy,

Life sure is great here on the Eastern Shore of Virginia! Everyone is spoiling me to no end and showing me all kinds of new things. I've talked to you on the phone a couple of times, but I miss seeing you (looking at pictures and video of you is just not the same). I can't wait until you are out here to go out on the boat and out for walks with us! Here are some pictures we've taken.

Oh, and Mama says she misses you LOTS!

Love, Jackson

This is my favorite chair on the deck :)

Here's me and Mama visiting Grandma Mills. She made me laugh!

Nana and Granddaddy Sterling got a new cat named Oliver, but he just wouldn't let me get a good look at him!

I finally found a way to sneak a peak at that Creamsicle cat.

Mama and me enjoying the sunset!

Sand Between Our Toes!

2010-07-01T15:46:00.006-06:00

It has been so hot here in Virginia, we haven't been able to visit the beach or sandbar until today. Last summer, Jackson LOVED the beach ... this year he was a little hesitant his first time out, but I'm sure we'll see the Shore in him before long.

Jackson is ready for the beach in his crocs, swim trunks, and life vest.

Jackson and Nana enjoying the sand and sun!

Mama and Jackson play a hidden treasure game with seashells.

Shore kids!

Nana and Granddaddy Sterling Visit Montana

2010-06-29T18:02:00.007-06:00

Mom and Nana & Granddaddy Sterling took a train out to Montana to see us! We loved every minute of their visit. Jackson served as the main entertainment, although we took the tours of Miles City, the Range Riders Museum, the new house, Big Sky Smile Center, and other highlights in town. They were all here for Father's Day, so we went to church and pampered Barrie and Granddaddy. Anna and Jackson joined the family on the train back to Virginia ... Barrie will be out later this summer!

Entering Big Sky Country

Breakfast Table

Happy Family

Miles City

Mama, Daddy, and Jackson

Riding the train back to Virginia!

BVA

2010-06-09T18:24:00.002-06:00

I graduated from Broadwater ten years ago today. Salutatorian and recipient of the Broadwater Academy Award (among others), no less. Hooray!

18 Months

2010-06-08T16:52:00.005-06:00

Jackson turned a year and a half old on June 6th! At his appointment with Dr. Young last week, he weighed 25 pounds, 4 ounces and was 34 inches tall. He is still the smartest, most handsome, most lovable kid around, and is growing fast. New words include "Nana" (partly because he loves bananas, but mostly because he is practicing for when Nana gets here), "side" (when he wants to go outside), "ruh ruh" (what the dog says) "qua qua" (what the ducks say), and "gone" (when he has finished his snack).

Jackson loves swinging in the swings outside, playing on the porch with his bowling set and golf clubs, riding around the pond in Daddy's golf cart, riding bikes with Mama and Daddy, reading books, taking snoozes, and EATING. This little guy can eat like a champ.

We love our little boy (no longer a baby)!

Jackson with the sweets left behind by Granddaddy and Uncle Bret (no, he doesn't usually get junk food like this!)

Fun with Dental Implants

2010-06-01T07:56:00.004-06:00

Dr. Ryan and Jen Serra came to visit us from Ohio over Memorial Day weekend! Ryan and Barrie were buddies and roommates at Penn Dental. Jen is Ryan's sweet wife (and mother-to-be of baby boy Serra!). Barrie has just started placing dental implants, so Ryan came to assist for his first few. When the Serras were here, we took them on the 5 cent tour of Miles City, as well as down to Deadwood and Mount Rushmore. It was great to have them here!

Taking a break from all the implant placing.

Jen, Ryan, Anna

Ryan and the Deadwood sign

Boston

2010-05-26T07:04:00.010-06:00

Barrie and I left the baby behind and went on our trip to Boston last week! This was a Christmas gift from Barrie (I could take anyone on a trip anywhere). Well, of course I picked my husband and I chose Boston because I love history and had never been. We had a blast and had beautiful weather. Here were some items on our agenda: Boston Duck Tour, Red Sox vs. Twins game, Fenway Park Tour, Boston Common, North End Italian food, Sam Adams Brewery, Freedom Trail (lots of historic sites), Blue Man Group at Charles Playhouse, oldest restaurant in America (Union Oyster House), oldest bar in America (Bell in Hand Tavern), and Cheers. My favorite sites on the Freedom Trail were the Granary Burial Ground (where lay Paul Revere, Samuel Adams, James Otis and Mother Goose), the Old State House, and the Old North Church. We also met up with one of Barrie's dental school buddies, Steve, and his girlfriend ... it was awesome to see them. Although we had a fabulous time, it was SO GOOD to get home and see our sweet Jackson!

Nobody knew our name at Cheers :(

Barrie at the Old State House (Declaration first read to the people of Boston on the balcony), standing on the site of the Boston Massacre.

Fenway Park! Gotta love $8 beers and singing Sweet Caroline.

Barrie and the Green Monster at the Red Sox Game:

Sam Adams Brewery - Barrie liked the Brick Red

Duck Tour Dorks :)

Gran

2010-05-25T10:59:00.003-06:00

A dear woman, Ann Davis, passed away the other day. She was my Sunday School teacher at Craddockville Church in Virginia for many years and was just like a grandmother to me growing up. Gran showed me what a woman of faith is truly like and I am so blessed to have known her.

In Sunday School, Gran would read us The Gift of the Magi every Christmas and would bake an Easter bunny cake for Easter. We would play Bible Trivia about once a month and she'd give us as many hints as we needed for the tough questions. Timmy would bring her cold coffee and she would drink every sip of it. It was in her class that I learned how to pray. Now, I am a Sunday School teacher and I often find myself speaking the prayers that Gran would say. I loved her very much and will miss her.

My three grandmothers: Nana, Grandma, and Gran (at my baby shower in 2008)

100th Post!

2010-05-16T06:36:00.004-06:00

This is my 100th post on the Matthews Milestones blog! Honestly, I'm not sure who checks out our little website, but I KNOW that our family does! So, this blog is dedicated to them.

Today also marks four years since Barrie and I bid Philadelphia goodbye and started out on a four-day drive across the country to the Middle of Nowhere, Montana. Our adventures together had begun. In these past four years, we have purchased two houses (and some land) in Miles City, gotten married, established a dental practice, had a sweet baby boy, and made many happy memories. Barrie has become a successful dentist, while Anna has earned her Masters in Education. God has blessed us in so many ways!

From the archive: Anna and Barrie make it to MONTANA.

Bucking Horse Sale Parade

2010-05-15T15:37:00.008-06:00

This morning Barrie, Jackson and I headed downtown for the annual Bucking Horse Sale Parade. What a beautiful day! Jackson loved watching the horses, floats, and all the people. Someday he will be one of the kids out front catching all the candy!

Mama and Baby, excited for the parade!

What do you see a lot of in Miles City? Horses of course.

The Rotary Club is gearing up for their annual duck race (Barrie is one of the main fundraisers and Big Sky Smile Center is an official sponsor). So, we had to visit the Duck in the park!

ALSO, today is the 4th anniversary of Barrie's graduation from the U. of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. I am so proud of my husband, the doctor!

The Matthews Men

2010-05-15T06:22:00.002-06:00

Jackson is fascinated when Daddy shaves in the morning:

No Stress

2010-05-12T20:14:00.004-06:00

One day last week I (Anna) backed my car into Barrie's on my way out of the driveway (!). (My official excuse is that I hadn't slept well the night prior). Later that day at school, there is a pretty bouquet of flowers with a note: "Don't stress about the cars." What a sweet husband! I think the little fender bender was caused by all the stress I've been letting get to me lately. The flowers were a reminder not to stress the little things ... AND that I have the most wonderful husband.

Mother's Day

2010-05-09T18:06:00.003-06:00

Jackson, Barrie and I went for a bike ride for Mother's Day. Jackson doesn't look very excited in this photo, but he was loving the ride once we got going. Barrie cooked us dinner tonight and even gave me a card (!) ... what a wonderful day and how wonderful it is to be a Mama. I miss my Mom, Nana and Grandma ... but, I will see them soon!

Bible Study BBQ

2010-05-08T15:25:00.009-06:00

Our group of gals brought the kids and husbands together for a second annual Bible Study BBQ last week. This year, Barrie and I hosted ... everyone brought delicious food ... the kids and good conversation kept us entertained!

Barrie and Anna

Barrie and Jackson

Ty, Rosalie, and Baby-Linger-to-Be :)

Chantelle, Kyle, and sweet baby Leah

Heidi and sweet baby Leighton

Some of the men!

Some of the kids!

Belle (photo by Berkeley)

We missed Erin, Beth Muri, Beth May, and their families! Also, I realized I didn't get a picture of Cori :(

17 Months

2010-05-07T20:15:00.005-06:00

Our little man is 17 months old! Here's what is new in Jackson's world:

~ Finding people's noses, eyes, and belly buttons. He can say 'eye' and 'be' for belly button. Careful ... he'll find your belly button whether you like it or not.
~ Opening the cell phone, holding it up to his ear, and saying 'hi'!
~ Putting on shoes (even mama's heels) and saying 'bye bye' (the shoe part is relatively new, though he's been saying and waving bye bye for many months now)
~ NOT using his snack-trap properly. The Cheerios end up all over the floor. Good thing we have Breezy following behind the baby to gobble up the spills.
~ Saying 'mama' a lot more than before!
~ Eating and loving all kinds of table food EXCEPT vegetables. He refuses veggies unless they're pureed. Picky, picky.

Jackson made a new friend (Ronnie) last month ... the two darlins tried to make a great escape on the golf cart.

Here's a rare photo of an unhappy Jackson (mama must have said his least favorite word ... NO).

Got Daddy's shoes on. Time to go BYE BYE!

Student Teaching Finale, Part Deux

2010-04-23T15:57:00.005-06:00

Although my last week in second grade ended last Friday, this week (as the final component of student teaching) I had the chance to observe other teachers in action. This has been lots of fun. Candice and the Highland Park staff threw me a 'teacher shower' on Wednesday with lots of great gifts, treats, and good company. What a great crew to work with!

The second graders' top secret project revealed:

A few of the HP staffers.

Me and a new treasure chest for my secret chocolate stash!

Student Teaching Finale!

2010-04-16T17:22:00.005-06:00

My (Anna's) last day of student teaching in second grade was on Thursday! What a bittersweet day. Candice brought a cake for the staff during morning recess and gave me a tote bag and art smock with my name embroidered on them. The kids made me the sweetest album with their pictures and notes that nearly brought me to tears. I threw a party in the afternoon with tie-dye cupcakes that were an incredible hit, some fun games, and treat bags full of goodies. I got countless hugs and lots of sweet "I love you"'s and "I'll miss you"'s.

Although I finished my Master in Elementary Ed courses last spring, student teaching was the final step to earning my degree. Hooray!

Mrs. Kelly and and Mrs. Matthews :)

Easter Blessings

2010-04-07T20:23:00.002-06:00

The Mills crew has left us for now. We had a wonderful visit. Mom (Nana) took care of Anna when she was sick. Jackson was spoiled sweet by Nana, Granddaddy, and Uncle Bret. The Twinkies and Sweet Tea have left the house. We miss them :( But, we will see them again soon (in June)!

Mama and Baby coloring Easter Eggs!

The Easter Bunny was good to Jackson :)

Mills Family

At Church

Easter Dinner

Thank you Jesus for your enduring, unconditional love. Thank you for our many blessings, at Easter and throughout the year!

Mills in Montana

2010-04-04T08:10:00.006-06:00

The Mills family (Barry, Beth and Bret) have made another trip from Virginia to Montana! We have loved every minute of their visit. Jackson loves having his Granddaddy, Nana and Uncle Bret here to spoil him. We will all miss them when they go!

Welcome to Miles City!

Jackson on a golf cart ride with Daddy and Granddaddy

Wagon ride with Nana

Checking out the Murdochs chicks with Mama and Daddy

We love our family to Virginia and back :)

Baby Got New Shoes

2010-03-28T19:12:00.006-06:00

Jackson got his first official pair of new walking shoes last weekend!

Dave and Daddy helping him find just the right pair.

Outside with Mama, trying out his new kicks.

Now that he's got his shoes, Jackson anticipates the golf season. Breezy helps him check out the golf clubs.

Giving those feet a rest!

Happy Birthday Mom (Nana)!

2010-03-13T10:16:00.008-07:00

My mom (aka my best friend) has a birthday today! She, Dad, and Bret are coming to visit later this month and we can't wait. Jackson misses his Nana!

Nana was here to welcome Jackson into the world!

In Virginia:

In Montana:

Jackson LOVES Nana hugs!

On the Beach!

Nana Sterling, Jackson, and Nana Mills in Norfolk, VA:

WE LOVE YOU TO THE MOON AND BACK!

Mrs. Matthews

2010-03-09T19:02:00.004-07:00

Anna is half-way through Student Teaching! This has been an absolutely INCREDIBLE experience so far. I couldn't imagine having a more awesome mentor teacher or a better bunch of kids. My mentor has nothing but nice things to say and the second-graders have accepted me right into the classroom. One sweet boy told me that I seem "just like a real teacher." Now, if I were being paid, I would really be like a real teacher ... maybe (hopefully) next year!

Cat in the Hat minus the hat (Dr. Seuss Day):

The greatest second grade class ever :)

Updates

2010-02-26T09:17:00.003-07:00

February has flown by. Anna is still loving student teaching ... it is keeping her busy ... next week will bring full management of the classroom. At the beginning of this month, Jackson decided that walking is way cooler than crawling and that he would walk everywhere he wanted to go. He is a very busy and happy boy!

The most wonderful husband in the world sent his happy wife some beautiful roses for Valentine's day. Nana and Granddaddy sent Jackson a cuddly dog :)

All three of us have been sick at one time or another this month. Yuck! Jackson felt so icky, he just wanted to lay down and rest (this photo was taken a couple of weeks ago).

The Truth about the Tooth

2010-02-13T17:28:00.003-07:00

Barrie and Kristi visited Highland Park and Jefferson Schools this week to talk to some of the classes about Children's Dental Health Awareness Month and how to take care of their pearly whites. The kid's were great and were entirely enthused about dental health. F-U-N!