FUN ON THE FARM AT THE RODEO...
We had a blast at the rodeo. It's tradition and bad weather could not keep us away.

I WANT LONG HAIR!...
I have all kinds of ideas about what "Rock-n-Roll" is. It's long hair, tattoos and songs that mom and dad listened to in their teens. I can sing the chorus to 'Round and Round', 'Sweet Child of Mine' and more from memory. I have lots of songs that just come rollin' out and this day was a rockin' day. Dad came in from work and immediately was hit up for guitar time with me. I knew just what to do. I picked out my guitar, stripped of my shirt and put my shirt on my head. Frustrated because it kept falling off mom and dad were not sure what was happening then I explained it; Rock-n-Roll guys have long hair. They were more than happy to help me with my hair. They think I am the coolest thing since sliced bread. Who thinks of this stuff? Me!

YEE-HAW RODEO!...
It was Ella's first Rodeo and we dressed in true style. I pulled off a look that hasn't been seen since the late 80's when Uncle Jeff last wore this hat. We called it a 10 gallon topper...It fit, but I preferred my Spiderman baseball cap. FYI I have a big boy head. These brains in combination with these curls measure up to a 6.5.
We showed Ella all the highlights before it was lights out for a sleepy baby. I made sure we hit the petting zoo, tractors and pony rides too. No rodeo is complete without them. I didn't care how long we had to wait in line. I was ready to ride. The token was just burning a hole in my hand. I could not wait to drop it into the box and pick out my horse. I knew that "Gem" was the one. She was a white horse and after riding described as "bumpy." Ella liked riding too for awhile. We had to stop and let her off a little early.
It was a beautiful day, perfect picnic weather and we were blessed to spend it with our extended family.

THE LIL MAN FOR THE JOB...
"I can do it myself, I don't need help!" is the theme rolling through our house these days. I am up for the job and ready to try anything that looks interesting that is until its not interesting then "I am just a lil guy, you do it."
Feeding Ella was fun! I fed her one bite after another until she was full. Taking care of Ella is always my top priority. I am a gentleman in the making. Mom is so proud.

4 YEARS LATER...
Happy Anniversary Mom and Dad!
Dad wanted to make this anniversary really special. He gets all the credit for being thoughtful and romantic. For those of you who knew mom and dad in college you know how special he can make mom feel; renting signs to profess his love on North street, flowers delivered every week, love letters taped to her car as if parking tickets, messages to unwrap with each stick of gum and on and on...well, it was one of those kind of nights. Mom knew they had plans to dine at Ouisie's Table, but shortly before leaving dad announced that mom needed to pack an overnight bag. She was shocked--where were they going? Dad would not tell. Mawmaws and Tim were on their way to pick me up for a night at the farm. Dad had given Mawmaws all the information so she already knew the big surprise. Then it was my turn to deliver the gift...dad purchased a necklace with my birthstone for mom. She has wanted one from the time I born. He put it around my neck so I could deliver it with sweet words, "Happy Anniversary Mom." I got a little embarrassed though...I wanted the necklace off and tried to pull it off before dad could get it unhooked. Whew! It didn't break, but it was tangled. I think dad almost had a heart attack. He was not a happy camper when he could not get the tangles out. He had to present it as a thoughtful plan gone crazy. Mom didn't care. She quickly untangled the chain and wore it with smiles all weekend. When Mawmaws arrived I jumped in the SUV and was ready to go. I was anxious to see the animals, feed the animals and meet the new calf that we named peanut butter. Mom and dad were ready to get to one of their favorite spots. Mom was looking forward to the seafood crepes as much as dad was the shrimp and grits. They loaded the van and were off--dad had another surprise playing...it was their wedding video followed by a tracks by a band they follow. Dinner was fantastic! The only thing that could have made it better was a chocolate bag for dessert; it wasn't on the menu, but they found a close second. At dinner dad revealed the big surprise; they were heading to Hotel Icon and he had reserved the same suite they stayed in the night of their wedding. Dad showed mom a picture of them entering the room 4 years ago on their wedding night and mom knew right away--how romantic! Yes, she was teary. 4 years brings many life changes; mom was so happy to spend a night with the man she fell in love with almost 11 years ago.
After sleeping in late and a lunch to follow mom and dad met Mawmaws at the outlet mall to retrieve their favorite lil man--me! When mom opened the door to the SUV I had the biggest smile on my face and called out "Mom, I see you...I've been looking and looking!" I think her heart melted all over again. How good it feels to be loved! I was the ultimate snuggle bug all the way home. It wasn't long after they discovered I was really getting sick. I spent Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday at home with major respiratory issues, a sinus infection and ear infection too.

GO WESTERN DAY!...
What fun! I had a reason to go to school in costume; of course I did double check and ask mom if everyone else would be dressing up too. I wore my boots, teeny-tiny-hiney jeans and belt with pride. I was all smiles all day.
I picked this belt myself. Grandpa Taylor you should be so proud...it has longhorns all over it!

RED GRAMMER...
Mom has made it her mission to expose me to the arts. We had a date to see Red Grammer a fantastic musician. He has interactive songs that keep you moving, laughing and singing along. It was a mommy, Reagies date and we had a blast. We were even called up on stage to sing along with hand motions and all. I was thrilled! I had no need for the earplugs I brought along...I enjoyed each song and all the silly times too right from the front row. I think I am destined to entertain!

HAMSTER ON A PIANO and friends...
The Taylor Zoo continues to expand. The latest addition is "Popcorn" our hamster. Creative names are my specialty--check out You Tube for the video of another hamster eating popcorn. You will see and hear my inspiration behind naming my hamster. We had a great time counting down to the arrival of Popcorn. Mom and I hand picked her from the Science Resource Center. Ms. Faye showed her to us when she was just a little pinky; no fur, eyes shut tight. We checked back with Ms. Faye every other week as we picked up and dropped off animals and reptiles for mom's class. Ms. Faye handled the hamsters often so they would not nip and trained them to the ball and wheel. We only wish they were potty trained. When it was time to bring her home, I held my carrying case tight...I was so proud. It was time to name her and we brainstormed for hours. Dad thought Peanut Butter due to her color, mom said Sucker because she dropped "the sucker" on the floor (she slipped!), but I said Popcorn. It was the perfect name. I have named three Taylor animals now. I am getting really good at this game. I have a tadpole named "Sharky", a Beta named "Catfish" and now a hamster named "Popcorn." The fun did not end here. Popcorn was lonely and acting out--YUCKY POTTY! We returned to the SRC to adopt her sister. Did I mention the price of adoption is a bag of clumping cat litter for the Bobcat? Well, I thought we should call our new addition "Popcorn 2." In fact I would call out to them, "I love you Popcorns." Dad needed different names. We are now the proud owners of Popcorn and Kettlecorn. :)
On a side note, check out my picture...she those pen marks...those are my tattoos. I can describe each one. I typically have a dragon, Spiderman and a snake. I can tell you their colors and of course they have sparkles and fire on them. Mom is going crazy! I am obsessed with tattoos. Every time I see a tattoo I have to point it out. Mom's favorite line so far is "See mom, that mom has a tattoo on her back. Why?" Mom continues to tell me that my "peachy skin" is best; that she loves my "peachy skin", but I am not so sure. I love the art and that everyone looks so different. So, the days of not realizing that markers and pens were for paper just came and went in our house. It is not by accident that I write on my skin. I want tattoos!
Catfish is a very quiet swimmer. Those hamsters are noisy runners.

MONKEY BIZNESS!...
Cohen, my friend from school, was turnig 4 and I was ready to celebrate. I ran, jumped, climbed and played myself to exhaustion while mom talked with the other moms and dads from class. It was a whole new role for mom. She is usually the party planner or the teacher watching the moms and dads share. This time she got in on the fun. After cake, Mom had me home, bathed and in bed asleep by 5:30. See, birthday parties are good for everyone and its a good thing...we are in the season of birthdays in my class. 5 invites have come in a 2 months! Whew! There are sure to be many more...30 kids brings a lot of birthday fun.

BLUE FOR YOU!...
Happy Valentine's Day! This year I picked out my own valentines...any guesses? Nope, not Dip Stix...Superheros! I sure did enjoy the candy that came home in my bag though. YUMMY!

GROW A HIP HOPPIN' FROG!...
The mailman might just be my best friend; look what he delivered today! Mail for me! I opened the box and found this tadpole inside--WOW! Funny story about that mailman...this was his second attempt...He delivered the first tadpole to the wrong address back in December. I bet the person who opened that box was even more surprised. We had a plan, okay directions, and we were ready to make observations. Our tadpole was delivered on February 9. He was just a swimmer then. Now he has his back legs too. This is a special tadpole. You can see trough his skin. I can see his blood flow and his heart pump too. He has a huge "glirpin'" mouth and a fast moving tail too. We can't wait to see him morph. Mom and dad were both surprised to see how long it takes for him to grow into a frog. We still have 2 legs to go and a tail to lose...this is a long process. Thanks Aunt Meme and Uncle Gene. We really are growing into a zoo around our house and I love it!

Frog races anyone?

SPONGEBOB...
Well, at least give mom some credit, she tried to hold off as long as she could. Protecting me from media is not always easy. I have learned all the "niche" characters anyway; Batman, Spiderman, Hulk, Spongebob and just about every other crew member be it Disney or not. I know them by name even though they have never been watched at home. Dad found this app on his Iphone. It was highly entertaining during Mawmaws birthday brunch. I stretched him, poked him and made him giggle, blow bubbles and more. Mom is not a fan of the old SB, but this was innocent fun.

LOOK WHO THE WIND BLEW IN!...
Could I be any happier? I have my Meme back and in true fashion she had 2 kids to snuggle for the weekend. I was loving the attention and jumping back into the wagon with her at the handle. I remember the good 'ol days when she spent her days off with me so mom could go to work. We frequented the park and the duck pond and played with just about every blade of grass in my yard. We are bonded for life and mom is forever thankful for her sacrifices.
Aunt Meme is another year older...yes, she is finally 30. We were thrilled when she decided to make the drive to celebrate her big day with us. It must have been the most windy day in Houston history, but we braved it all to enjoy some time outdoors and play at the park. To make a very, very long and crazy story much more readable...it was a series of misfortunate events. As we were heading out to the zoo (Meme's request) our van got its 4th flat tire in 2 weeks. How does that even happen? Well, that's when we all went our separate ways...Dad and Uncle Gene to Discount Tire and to play some golf and Meme, Mom, Ella and me to enjoy the time outdoors. The wind was good for us...it blew off some stress. When the big boys returned we were ready for dinner. PF Changs was the spot and I enjoyed my favorite spring rolls and honey seared chicken--YUMMY! After dinner it was lights out for us little ones. Mom and Meme had a date with Dish on Demand. Happy Birthday Meme. We love you!
Can you believe these big boy sports I play? I love soccer and anything that makes me climb high, swing fast until I am dizzy or resembles the role of a superhero. Reagan to the rescue!

ELMO'S WORLD!...
This is my song, La, la, la, la...REAGAN'S Song! Uncle Jeff got me tickets to Seseme Street Live. It was so much fun to see the bigger than life size characters singing and dancing on stage. I stood for most of the performance just leaning over the railing. It was late and a school night so we were all overly tired. Elmo and friends with all their pep and smiles kept me and mom entertained. They kept dad texting, listening to podcasts and sending out tweets. I guess Seseme street really is for kids. I couldn't wait to show off my new shirt at school on Friday. Show and tell is the best!

THE TAYLOR TORNADO...
We might be in need of FEMA assistance. What on earth happened to our playroom? Moral is--never leave a three year old to play without frequently checking in. What is typically a clean as you go kinda kid may turn into a Taylor Tornado. Never fear...order has returned to the play space.
So moms when you feel you have lost all order in your house...refer to this picture and smile...I'm not sure it can get much worse and it can be fixed with a little time and patience :)

DUDE'S NIGHT!...
What makes the perfect dude's night you ask...Bar-B-Q beef sandwiches, pickles and hot chips followed by a late night of Monster Jam...what could be better? I was ready to rock; I had gum to smack and a pirate flag to fly. Wes and I were in gear with our "earmuffins" to block the noise. Uncle JJ had thought ahead--thank goodness. Dad said he had to tap me to get my attention. I couldn't hear a thing even with him sitting right next to me. He was wishing he had a pair of "muffins" too--next year dad. We all had our favorites, but mine came in 3's. I loved Monster Mut with his waggin' tongue, Gravedigger and the fire breathing robot of course. I told mom all about the robot. Of course it was a very late evening...mom was at home wondering how long this thing could last. Then right about 11 I came through the door fighting sleep with stories to tell. Maybe we will try a dude's afternoon gig next year.

Huh? I can't hear you...I have too much to look at anyway...catch me up later please.

HELLO AGAIN!...
We have missed you too. Spring break is here and I have to be honest...I am 2 months behind in blogging. The idea of catching up is enough to make me avoid it, but I have a much needed prayer request. Let's just hope that news is news rather than good or bad. Reagan had his yearly check up with his ENT today. The doctor was able to remove both tubes as they were just "hanging out" in a ball of wax (gross thought.) Reagan's ears have healed--good news. There is no longer a hole where the tube was placed in either ear. However his left ear has lots of fluid again--bad news. Reagan has been on antibiotics for 2 weeks trying to clear up a sinus infection that went to his chest. This is the second this year that has required mega meds. He can't breathe, his nose is full of green gunk, his eyes are goopy, he gags and sometimes throws up from the coughing. If he is laying flat it is one cough after another. No rest for Reagan and no rest for mommy either. He is feeling much better now and we were hopeful that his appointment today was the all clear to another season of swim lessons and a summer without earplugs...that might not be the case. The doctor wants to see Reagan again in 6 weeks. At that time we will do another hearing test. Reagan is currently in speech therapy and so on top of the healthy ear aspect the doctor does not want Reagan hearing distorted sounds from the fluid in his ears. He is on nasal steroids in hopes that the fluid will dry up. If it is not clear in 6 weeks we are looking at another set of tubes. You may not remember, but the first surgery was a wreck. Reagan does not handle the medication well. It was literally a nightmare. Please pray that God will just do a work on him; heal him and guide us all in making the best decisions we can for Reagan. Thanks for being a prayer partner...we will touch back and see the progress in 6 weeks.