Just some pics

Matthew decided he needed a cat nap.

Luke checking Nathan out!

Another happy baby!

Matthew got his two top teeth!

Luke decides he likes the way Matthew eats cake!

Luke was so intrigued by Matthew just digging into his own cake on his birthday that he decided to try it. Unfortunately he used the cake that everyone else was eating and was only 1/4 of the way gone!

Matthew goes exploring

Matthew decided that since he turned one he is a big boy. He took off and explored the yard for quite a while, only stopping to eat a dandelion!

Mommy finally captures Nathan's precious smile!

I have been trying for over a week to capture Nathan's smile. Finally I caught him at the perfect time!

Matthew's birthday!

Matthew had a very happy birthday. He really enjoyed digging into his chocolate cake! He made a big mess!

Matthew likes chocolate!

We had to hose him off after he was done!

Matthew with his chocolate cake. He started out with little bites.

Maya's Birthday too!

We can't celebrate Matthew's birthday without celebrating Maya's life too! We took balloons out to the cemetary as a way to say "Happy Birthday" to her.
Thank you to everyone who came to the party and to everyone else who called, e-mailed, or sent cards. You all helped to make the day a little easier!

Happy Birthday Maya Michelle! We miss you!

Matthew Jared turns 1 tomorrow!

Matthew's smile will light up a room in seconds! He has come so far since he was born. Looking at him now you would never believe he had such a rough start. He is such a happy guy and has such a special personality. He never fails to amaze us!

He got a new baby brother. He doesn't mind him too much, as long as he still gets attention.

He had his first taste of rabbit! (Yes it is a real rabbit!)

He got to meet his big sister Kenna!

He crawls all over!

His first taste of ice cream!

He can't wait until Daddy takes him hunting!

He LOVES his dog, Kitty!

Maya giving Matthew kisses!

They were so happy to be home with their big brother Luke!

When they were in the hospital they put these funny hats on them.

Their first picture together. It was also the first time Mommy got to hold them both at the same time!

They finally let Mommy hold Matthew... well kind of. I couldn't actually touch him, but we made do anyway!

Matthew on the day he was born. He sure didn't like all those tubes!

A year ago today was the day I went into the hospital for preterm labor. After several attempts to stop my labor, Maya Michelle and Matthew Jared were born the next day weighing in just under 5 pounds. It is hard to believe how small Matthew was when he was born. For the first 2 days of his life he had to be sedated and we weren't able to hold him. After several doses of a drug that was suppose to close the hole in his heart and several days he improved dramaticly. His story is special for so many reasons, but most of all because he is a twin. We use to joke in the NICU that Matthew would some day be a Husker football player and Maya would be a cheerleader! One year later Matthew size and personality makes us wonder if he won't be! And I am sure Maya will be cheering him on from heaven!

Update

The Blackman's house has been a little crazy the last couple weeks. I knew when Nathan was born that life would be a little crazy. We have spent the last 4 weeks adjusting to life with another baby. If you have called my house in the last couple of weeks you will know why I call it a zoo. The noise level alone is something that takes time to adjust to. But it has been a good adjustment. Luke had some trouble adjusting, but overall he has done really well. Matthew is still unsure of what the fuss is all about. He tries to pat (or hit) his baby brother, so Nathan doesn't get any tummy time or time on the floor unless Matthew is asleep. Nathan is growing and doing really good.
We have all had colds the last week and we are hoping everyone is on the road to feeling better. On top of that Matthew has been teething and after months of trying to get a tooth we finally had one break through! It also looks like we could have 3 more pop through in the next couple of weeks.
Today we went to Roscoe for a birthday party for Matthew and Zoe. Matthew decided after watching Zoe walk around that he could do that too. So, he took off walking. And of course they were more interested in the wrapping paper and bows than the actual presents. Zoe really liked the cards. I think they had a good day.
Now we have to prepare for Matthew's party here next weekend. Hopefully we are all feeling better!! We hope to see you here!

Happy Birthday Matthew and Zoe!

Matthew liked his presents so much he decided to do a little dance!

Mommy and Matthew opening presents.

The kids climbing the stairs and hoping the adults aren't watching!

Matthew, Zoe, Nana, Nathan and Luke

Matthew and Zoe hanging out.

Luke painting his pumpkin.

Matthew was really excited that Luke left his chocolate donuts sitting out. He quickly scarfed one down before anyone could take it away from him!

Boys

Nathan taking a snooze!

Matthew on the attack! Luke will soon learn not to make him mad! Nathan was a little upset too, he was wanting a nap and everyone kept moving him around!

What funny facial expressions they make! I wish I knew what they were thinking!

Matthew is going to be our climber! He isn't scared of anything!

Matthew

Luke

What a crew!

Nathan after bath time!

Matthew laughing at his Mom! I had a cow when I realized he had climbed up on the side table and was hanging out!

Happy Birthday Zoe!

Today is Zoe Anne's first birthday! We hope she had a great day and got REALLY spoiled today! We will see her on Saturday for her and Matthew's joint party in Roscoe!