The Maxwell Family Blog

Thanksgiving in California 2011!

2011-12-11T06:48:00.001-08:00

We spent Thanksgiving week with the AF volleyball team and my family in California. Mel flew out from Omaha and we had a great time. The weather was amazing and we had the best time hanging out with family and friends!

With Lola and Auntie Leah outside her apartment in Hollywood!

Outside Pat & Lorraine's - Lola's favorite breakfast place in Eagle Rock.

Mikayla got a lot of QT with Poochie - her favorite dog!

Hanging out with Dad in Santa Monica!

We love the beach!

Fall Fun!

2011-10-26T06:58:00.000-07:00

Two ponytails just like Dora.

Mel visits on the weekends as much as he can and Mikayla loves park-time with Daddy!

Mel and I have a good friend (Amy Mason) who works at adidas and every now and then she'll send some goodies. Mikayla loves her new Minnie shoes from Auntie Amy!

Enjoying the view from the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo in Colorado Springs. It's set up in the mountains which is pretty cool.

She was so excited when she found butterfly wings with Harmony!

We visit 3 different parks in Colorado Springs and she calls this one waterfall park. She loves throwing rocks and sticks into the water.

Riding in the ball cart

2011-08-19T20:59:00.001-07:00

This picture just makes me smile. It also reminds me of Magnum volleyball practices and Charlie putting Victor in the ball carts.

She loves water!

2011-08-17T21:06:00.001-07:00

Omaha was hot this summer so we took advantage of every opportunity to play in water!

She picked out the pink goggles and wouldn't take them off.

Daddy was supposed to buy a little sprinkler and he came home with this!

We signed her up for swimming camp at Swimtastic in Omaha. She had a blast learning how to kick her legs, blow bubbles, and get comfortable in the water with Miss Joan and Mr. Alex.

Our little graduate :)

Happy Birthday!

2011-06-27T06:07:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Baby Girl!

2011-06-26T22:59:00.001-07:00

Our baby girl is 2! We had big plans for her birthday, but had to scrap them when she woke up in the middle of the night with a temperature. We spent the day before her birthday at the doctor. He confirmed an ear infection, her fever spiked to 103.9, and she suffered a febrile seizure. Thankfully, it was in the doctor's office and he was able to keep us calm while it passed. It's the scariest thing in the world to watch your child go through something like that and we are so grateful that she's on the mend. Happy Birthday Mikayla Leigh!

We had to eat this big cake by ourselves!

Celebrating with Elmo!

My dad makes me help put together my own birthday presents!

I love my new school bus!

Disney fun continued!

2011-06-26T22:43:00.000-07:00

On our second to last night at Disney, I finally had a little free time in the evenings. Brook was finished recruiting as well and Auntie B got to spend some quality time with Mikayla.

Kisses for Auntie B for a great birthday present!

Girls rule!

Yay for Maxwell Family fun at Downtown Disney!

Her first set of Mickey ears!

She loves her Minnie Mouse from Auntie B!

Happy Daddy's Day at Disney World!

2011-06-26T22:33:00.000-07:00

Happy Daddy's Day to my Daddy!

I had to be in Orlando to recruit at AAUs, so we decided to make it a family trip. We were able to get a great deal on 4-day passes through the military. Mikayla and Mel enjoyed some great bonding time at Disney World in 100 degree heat + humidity.

Day 1 - it's too hot Daddy! Really, you have me outside?

I love horses!

Yay for Dumbo!

She's still talking about teacups with Daddy!

Anything with water became her "favorite ride!"

Counting!

2011-05-21T21:27:00.000-07:00

Mikayla is growing and learning so much these days. She can count to 10 and recognizes all her letters. Thank goodness for Super Why!

Everybody Clap!

2011-05-21T21:16:00.000-07:00

The month of May is a quiet period for recruiting, so that means Mikayla and I head back to Omaha to spend time with Daddy. We've enjoyed being together as a family over the last month. The weather is great, the greens are green, and Mikayla just keeps us entertained! She loves being outside playing in her sandbox or on her swing set. The two houses next to us decided to keep our backyards all together instead of fencing them off. All of us have kids, so afternoons are very fun. One more week in Omaha before we head back to Colorado for camps and recruiting at AAUs and JOs.

Happy Easter

2011-05-06T05:29:00.001-07:00

Mikayla/Daddy time in Omaha!

2011-04-17T16:22:00.000-07:00

Mommy is recruiting at the Show Me Qualifier in Kansas City so I get to spend some QT with my Daddy. He buys me fun toys to keep me entertained. I love play-doh Elmo!

Play-doh duck!

Fun at the OMSI in Portland!

2011-02-22T19:14:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-13T20:02:00.001-08:00

Red velvet cupcake or banana? Easy choice :)

Mel sent his girls cupcakes from Georgetown Cupcake (in DC) for Valentine's Day and

WE LOVED THEM!

Rotavirus (we think)!

2011-02-13T19:44:00.001-08:00

When we got back to Colorado in mid-January, there was a sign on the door of Mikayla's classroom that read "confirmed case of rotavirus." I thought twice about having her go in the classroom, but all her little friends were in there. I figured she'd be ok. Rotavirus is super contagious and you can get it even though you've had the vaccine. Well, Mikayla got something pretty close to rotavirus a few days later while we were in Austin recruiting. We missed our return flight because she was so sick. This is a pic of her in our hotel room snuggling with a blanket and chewing on the top of her tylenol dropper. She's a trooper, but it was rough to see her so sick. We're glad she's made a complete recovery!

2011-02-01T05:46:00.001-08:00

Mel got me (I mean Mikayla) an iPad for Christmas. We love it!

More Snow Fun!

2011-02-01T05:38:00.001-08:00

These are pics from the beginning of January when my mom visited us in Omaha. Mikayla and Lola are getting ready to have fun in the snow!

My mommy finally bought real sleds!

I'm helping shovel the driveway :)

My Lola is trying to push me and daddy on the sled.

Lola helps shovel the sidewalk while I supervise.

If You're Happy and You Know it . . .

2011-01-06T04:42:00.000-08:00

Photos from the Holidays

2011-01-06T03:56:00.001-08:00

We enjoyed the holidays being together in Omaha. Mikayla enjoyed opening presents!

She loves her princess castle-house (so does her daddy. I often find him inside with Mikayla).

She's growing up so fast!

I love snow!

This was one of the funniest moments from the holidays - Mel's take on a sled for Mikayla and she actually loved it!

Happy Holidays!

2010-12-26T13:24:00.000-08:00

My daddy is so creative. He can make me a sled out of a weed wacker box! Merry Christmas!

Mini Magnum VBC & Kids Reunion Part II

2010-12-23T05:24:00.001-08:00

In the last month, we've got to visit with a few of my Magnum VBC teammates.

It's always fun to see my girls and their children!

At the AVCA Convention/Final Four, we met up with Sarah Chase who was presenting a seminar topic at the Convention. It was great to catch up and listen to her talk about her successes with her club team and team bonding activities. I can't believe that her kids are so grown up now. Gale, James, and the girls visited when Air Force played at San Diego State. Our families went to lunch following the match and had a great time catching up. I can't believe the twin are almost as tall as me now!

Row, row, row . . .

2010-11-10T21:42:00.000-08:00

Love her so much!

Our growing baby!

2010-11-09T06:44:00.000-08:00

Mikayla's stats at the 12 month check up:
19 lbs 6 oz
28 3/4 inches

Mikayla's stats at the 15 month check up:
20.14 lbs
30 1/4 inches

7 teeth total - 4 on the top and 3 on the bottom

She's growing up so fast!

Quick update

2010-11-07T13:37:00.001-08:00

I can't believe how quickly this first season has gone by! Probably the biggest highlight so far was winning the first conference match since 2005! We beat San Diego State in four games on national TV. It was pretty sweet!

My future setter!

2010-11-07T13:34:00.000-08:00

Hahahaha! This is one of my favorite pictures of Mikayla. Look at that textbook setting window. It's never too early to start training :)

Mel Assumes Command of the 55th LRS!

2010-09-27T19:13:00.001-07:00

Today my hubby assumed command of his squadron - the 55th Logistics Readiness Squadron. Mel's parents were able to fly out from Albuquerque and it was a great day! Here are some pictures from the ceremony. Mikayla was a total ham during Mel's ceremony even walking through the squadron formation and standing in front of the podium to listen to Col Allshouse talk about Mel. It was classic!

Groovin'

2010-08-12T20:31:00.000-07:00

Mikayla loves to dance!

I'm mobile!

2010-08-10T21:35:00.000-07:00

I'm a big girl now!

2010-08-03T22:33:00.000-07:00

Not only is Mikayla starting to walk now, but she's also getting more adventurous.

I love applesauce!

2010-08-03T22:28:00.000-07:00

Mikayla enjoying an afternoon snack of applesauce and graham crackers at the CDC.

1st bday photo shoot!

2010-07-15T20:14:00.001-07:00

Things have been so crazy that I haven't had time to update the blog. We moved from the St. Louis area in early July and have been setting up Maxwell House West in Colorado Springs and Maxwell House East in Omaha. MHW is up and running. We found a townhouse in Wolf Ranch. It's a great development with walking trails and a very nice park nearby. Mel is currently in Omaha setting up MHE. We found a house that backs up to the third hole on the Tregaron Golf Course in Bellevue, Omaha. It's about 7 minutes to the Offutt Air Force Base gate - perfect for Mel since he needs to be pretty close to the base. Our baby girl has been a trooper with all the change. We are so blessed to have a wonderful baby girl who just goes with the flow.

In the last few weeks, Mikayla has just blossomed. Mikayla has started walking with her walker. She took two baby steps at the Colorado Juniors volleyball facility today at the end of my middle school setting clinic and about had a panic attack - she got a little scared. She blows kisses to everyone - it's the most hysterical thing in the world. She's a little ham bone and just works the audience. She can point out her head, knees, toes, eyes, ears, and mouth. In addition to saying ma-ma, mom, da-da, da-dy, and ba-ba, she also says duck, dog, and la-la (for Lola). We love her so much!

Here are some pictures from her first birthday photo shoot at Portrait Innovations - that place is a zoo by the way. It's great, but it's a zoo! Enjoy!

Happy 1st Birthday Mikayla Leigh!

2010-06-25T19:40:00.001-07:00

Da-Da!

2010-05-28T21:20:00.000-07:00

Today Mikayla said Da-Da which was very exciting for all of us. She said it numerous times and it was really cute seeing her look at Mel when she would say it. It's so great to see her process things and start to understand things. Our baby girl is growing so fast!

More milestones, Happy almost 11th month bday, and getting ready for Colorado!

2010-05-24T19:30:00.000-07:00

Mikayla continues to amaze us every day. She's growing up so fast. She had a few more milestones while we were visiting Mel's parents in New Mexico. She got her 2nd tooth and she started to let go of things and just stand unassisted - only for a few seconds at a time. She also added a few more words to her vocabulary . . . gaga, giga, gee-goo, (has mama and baba down pretty well). She's started to dabble with da and de and will throw in the occasional word like duck (she said it while she was watching Your Baby Can Read). I'm hoping she says Dad or Dada soon. She races up the stairs now (crawling) and she's even started to come back down them. In a month, our little girl will be 1. Time is flying!

We're gearing up for our move to Omaha/Colorado Springs this summer. When I'm working in C-Springs, Mikayla will be the Child Development Center at USAFA. We're really excited that we were able to get her a spot there and she's looking forward to joining Red 2. Mel is not excited about Red 2 - it's 9 little boys and 1 little girl - our baby girl. I think it's great because the teachers will spoil her since she's the only girl in the room :) In preparation for Red 2, Mikayla needs to feed herself and keep a pair of shoes on. Easier said than done.

Here's our first attempt at self-feeding.

She wanted to pull of these Nikes as soon as we put them on.

Albuquerque!

2010-05-12T08:54:00.001-07:00

We've been traveling quite a bit since I stopped working at MSSB - California, Hawaii, Indiana, Maryland, Colorado, and now New Mexico. Mel is on his last week of a 3-week TDY to Kirtland AFB in Albuquerque. It's been a great trip and Mikayla has loved spending time with her Grandpa and Grandma. Here are two pics from Mikayla's photo shoot:

Oh bubbles.

Mikayla's personality has been coming out more and more. She might be a little diva in training. Will try my hardest to break her of this diva-ness :)

J.O. Qualifiers -- Indy & Baltimore

2010-04-07T08:43:00.000-07:00

Right when we got back from Hawaii, we had to do laundry, pack up the car, and head to Indy for the MEQ. The next weekend, we did the same routine, and hopped on a plane to Baltimore for the NEQ. Mel was volleyballed out from the previous weekend, so Lola flew all the way from California to help watch Mikayla. Mikayla was a great traveler and loved seeing mommy's friends and Lola!

We tried to find the Easter Bunny, but he wasn't at the Gallery Mall in the Inner Harbor. So here's a picture of Mikayla and Lola on Easter Day at Phillips.

Enjoying the nice sunny weather in Baltimore.

RD & PC grab a crabcake from Phillips before they head back home.

Uncle Lee and Mikayla Leigh at Phillips.

With Auntie DebbieBrown in Indy. Thanks for all my new adidas gear!

Lanikai

2010-04-07T08:41:00.000-07:00

Mel had a three week TDY to Hawaii so Mikayla and I met him for a little R & R. We visited Lanikai and had a great time. Lanikai is one of the most beautiful beaches we've ever seen.

Mikayla loves playing with Daddy.

She wasn't a big fan of getting sand in between her little toes.

Mommy & Mikayla.

Our baby girl.

The view from our future house :)

Mini Magnum VBC & Kids Reunion.

2010-03-13T12:16:00.000-08:00

Almost 20 years ago, I had the wonderful opportunity to play for the Magnum Volleyball Club - coached by Charlie Wade. The 1992 class was his "Dream Team." To this day we keep in touch and even though it's been a few years since we've seen each other, it's like we just saw each other yesterday. Mikayla and I got to meet up with Kelly and her daughter Selah and Gale and her daughters Morgan, Elizabeth, and Anna. We had a great day at the Long Beach Aquarium. We can't wait for the next Magnum Reunion!

Mikayla, Kelly, and Selah.

Gale and Mikayla.

I bet Charlie goes back to club coaching, just to coach our girls!

Selah, Anna, Elizabeth, Mikayla, and Morgan.

Mikayla loved hanging out with the big girls.

Visiting Lola in Cali!

2010-03-13T12:14:00.000-08:00

Since I'm no longer working, we stopped in California to visit my family on our way to meet Mel who was TDY in Hawaii. We had a great visit with Lola, Leah, Victor, and Poochie.

Helping mom pack for Cali and Hawaii!

I love visiting my Lola. She gives me lots of kisses!

Auntie Leah makes me giggle.

Playing with Lola.

At Lola's favorite breakfast place in Eagle Rock.

Last Day of School

2010-03-06T05:45:00.000-08:00

Mikayla's last day of school was on March 5th. We had a great experience at La Petite Academy in O'Fallon, IL. Although she misses her classmates and teachers, she's very excited to spend more time with mommy.

Mikayla was sad to leave her friend Lucy.

Mikayla and Reece.

Mikayla misses Miss Brittany very much.

Mmmmm, mom, mama.

2010-03-02T07:19:00.001-08:00

Baby core workouts.

2010-02-14T20:51:00.000-08:00

Mikayla likes to do pushups with her daddy.

Happy Valentine's Day from Chicago!

2010-02-14T20:39:00.000-08:00

It's so much fun to be back in the gym! We love running into friends. I coached with Jen Flynn and Erin Virtue a few summers ago with USA Volleyball High Performance. Jen coaches at Illinois (pregnant with Mikayla's future BFF Baby Flynn) and Erin coaches at Cincinnati.

Another USA HP coaching buddy and good friend - Jill Kramer. Jill coaches at Virginia.

Doug English coached ND summer camp and was an assistant to RD at Boise State. Doug now coaches at GW and is engaged. Congrats!

Mikayla - the day before we left for Chicago. So pumped for a weekend in the gym!

Not so pumped for the 4 1/2 hour car ride.

She got her hair did!

2010-02-14T20:35:00.000-08:00

Miss Brittney at school started doing Mikayla's hair this week.

Zig zags - so stylish!

The original quasi-side pony!

"Ah gee gah"

2010-01-17T21:39:00.000-08:00

Mikayla is such a daddy's girl already!

Happy New Year!

2010-01-07T05:09:00.000-08:00

Mikayla celebrated the New Year with some organic rice cereal.

We celebrated with the best meal Mel's ever cooked . . . filet mignon with goat cheese and balsamic reduction and asparagus. Yum!

Mikayla stops to let Uncle Victor know the ground rules when it comes to feeding her.

He quickly got the hang of it.

I love when my Lola and Uncle Victor come to visit me :)

Happy New Year's Eve!

2009-12-31T21:12:00.001-08:00

Hanging out with Daddy.

I think they were watching football :)

Uncle Mike is a natural!

I love when Lola comes to visit!

Yummy rice cereal!

Merry Belated Christmas!

2009-12-31T19:37:00.000-08:00

Hi Santa. I'm sure I'll smile at you when I get older.

In Albuquerque visiting Grandpa & Grandma Maxwell. Lots of people came to visit.

Smiling at Grandma and her friend.

So many people!

Opening presents with Grandpa and Daddy.

Seahawks vs. Rams

2009-12-03T18:57:00.001-08:00

Cheering on John Carlson #89.

Dani Herndon Carlson, a sleepy Mikayla Leigh Maxwell, and I at the game.

Mikayla's first NFL game. Thanks for the tickets Charlie!

With John and Dani after the game. It was interesting to see how many people were hanging out trying to get autographs and stuff.

Mikayla - happy that the Seahawks were victorious.

My favorite picture!

2009-12-03T18:52:00.000-08:00

Mikayla and Mel @ Hermosa Beach.

Big smiles and a beautiful sunset.

Thanksgiving in California!

2009-12-03T18:24:00.001-08:00

Mikayla after her baby dedication.

Brad, Mikayla and Mel at Hermosa Beach. Brad was Mel's roommate at USAFA. 10 years ago, Brad scored a perfect 500 on his PFT. Mel scored a 493.

Mom's retirement dinner at Mastro's in Beverly Hills.

Jessi - my teammate from Cal. Go Bears!

Mikayla and Uncle Victor.

Kissy Poos from Poochie

2009-11-12T18:56:00.000-08:00

This video was taken during Leah's cross country pit-stop in St. Louis. Mikayla just woke up and Poochie was saying good morning.

Mikayla Monster

2009-11-12T17:41:00.000-08:00

This is Mikayla Monster (at the end she starts to cry a little, but most of the time it's her just growling). It's really funny when Mel does it back to her and they both start laughing.

Mikayla and Daddy Day!

2009-11-12T16:50:00.000-08:00

Mikayla got to spend Veteran's Day at home with Daddy.

She was so excited for it and loved bonding with him.

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-31T17:15:00.001-07:00

Happy Halloween! Mikayla celebrated Halloween yesterday at day care. She started the day as a doctor in the scrubs that her Auntie Leah got her from Johns Hopkins. She finished the day as a lady bug. As a few trick-or-treaters knock on our door, our baby girl is sound asleep - she was out by 6:15 pm.

Working Mommy

2009-10-27T18:54:00.001-07:00

This week is my first week back at work and it's really hard to be away from my baby girl all day. Mikayla is such a trooper. She's being great at day care and even smiles at her teachers. On the first day, I forgot the nipples for Mikayla's bottles - luckily Amanda was able to swing by our house and drop them off. On the second day, I forgot my breast pump accessories so I had to run to Target to get an extra set. What will I forget tomorrow? Hopefully nothing!

Mikayla and Miss Melissa

Mikayla's buddy Eduardo.

Poor little Mikayla

2009-10-10T08:42:00.001-07:00

We went to the doctor yesterday because Mikayla wasn't being her usual chipper self. I thought she just had a little bit of a cold because her nose was running, but it turns out that it morphed into an ear infection. Dr. Epstein gave her some antibiotics and ear drops. It breaks my heart that she's sick, but she still manages to give me a little smile every now and then to say I'm ok mommy. She's a trooper. Thanks to Kelly O'Connor who told me way before Mikayla was born to "trust my gut."

Seriously mom? I'm sick. No pictures!

Mikayla Zoolander

2009-09-30T18:35:00.001-07:00

Mikayla is practicing for her future career in modeling. Here she shows off her different looks. She's very versatile.

Blue Steel

Le Tigre

Ferrari

Magnum!

Tummy Time and Smiles!

2009-09-29T09:08:00.000-07:00

I finally captured Mikayla smiling!

Mikayla and her jumperoo!

2009-09-25T08:19:00.000-07:00

The Golden Gate Bridge

2009-09-16T20:08:00.000-07:00

On the way up to the Banatao's vineyard in Sonoma, we stopped at the Golden Gate Bridge. The fog was rolling in and it was just a perfect photo op.

Going back to Cali!

2009-09-06T18:22:00.000-07:00

Mikayla's first flight will be this weekend to Northern California. We're headed to the Classico at the Banatao's vineyard in Cloverdale. Mikayla is totally excited to meet the Bears.

Notre Dame!

2009-09-06T18:15:00.001-07:00

Jump training with Uncle Kevin.

With Daddy @ Touchdown Jesus.

With Mommy & Daddy at Notre Dame.

I love sleeping in my tent when we travel.

Go Irish!

2009-09-06T16:41:00.001-07:00

Got to cheer on Auntie Brook and the DU Pioneers at ND. She gave me some good training tips regarding my platform. I will pass nails soon.

Reunited with ND friends . . . Charmelle & Matt and the Greenes - Allen, Christy, Rian & Sam.

Celebrating the big win over #5 Stanford with Auntie DebbieBrown!

The Brown Boys - Connor and Ryan.

It's good to see Uncle RD back on the sidelines for the Irish!

15 pounds!

2009-09-06T16:37:00.001-07:00

Mikayla's stats at the 2 month well baby visit:

Weight 15 pounds (100th percentile)

Height 23 inches (80th percentile)

(although I think she's more like 24 inches because she wasn't laying down straight)

Cuteness factor (100%)

Grandpa and Grandma Maxwell visit Mikayla!

2009-08-25T14:06:00.001-07:00

Grandpa and Grandma Maxwell visited for a week and I had so much fun with them. The weather was so great. We went to the Missouri Botanical Gardens, the St. Louis Zoo, and finally got Grandpa his soul food fix at Sweetie Pie's. I got many presents too and I'm very thankful for all of them. I can't wait for Grandpa and Grandma to visit again.

Mikayla and her new play gym

2009-08-25T13:17:00.000-07:00

Lola visits Mikayla!

2009-08-08T19:35:00.000-07:00

Mom (Lola to Mikayla) came to visit us from July 21st to August 1st. Mikayla loved being held and swayed by Lola, loved bath time, loved being fed & burped, and loved when Mom & Dad went out so she could bond with Lola. We enjoyed mom's visit and all the home cooked meals. Thanks Mom/Lola!

Thank you Robyn Osten @ Life's Little Celebrations Photography!

2009-07-25T13:14:00.000-07:00

Robyn Osten at Life's Little Celebrations Photography did our maternity and newborn photos. She has a blog and posted a sneak peak of our pictures. We can't wait to see all the proofs. We had such a great time in her studio. Robyn is not only a great photographer, but a great person as well. Thank you so much Robyn!

http://llc.typepad.com/littlecelebrations/2009/07/the-before-and-after-a-very-special-project-newborn-photography-in-st-louis.html

Friends visit Baby Mikayla!

2009-07-10T05:30:00.001-07:00

Kevin was Mikayla's first visitor and brought her some balloons.

Kate and Mike visited and brought Pei Wei. Yummy!

Abby, Mo, and Jo visited and brought the cutest outfits from Baby Gap. She can't wait to model them for you all.

The Prues visited and brought Baby Ben for their first play date. They also brought some beautiful flowers.

Looks like Mom?

2009-07-10T05:20:00.000-07:00

On Mel's computer screen is my baby picture from 1974 and to the right is our baby girl.

Introducing Mikayla Leigh Maxwell

2009-07-10T05:17:00.000-07:00

June 25, 2009

7:53 AM

7 pounds, 13 ounces

20 inches

Welcome Home!

2009-06-04T05:27:00.001-07:00

Mel arrived home safely on June 2! I love having him home. So does Poochie :) Here are some pictures from his homecoming.

Birds, by Jeff Kapfer

2009-05-25T16:24:00.001-07:00

Jeff Kapfer is a local artist whose work was on display at SqWires when Mel and I got married last year. We loved his work so much that we bought one of his pieces after the wedding. I thought it would be really cool to get something for the nursery for the baby and this is what Jeff came up with. I absolutely LOVE it!

http://jeffkapfer.com/

Two birds - this is the one we got after the wedding.

Maxwell Family Birds - this is the one Jeff made for the nursery.

MLM's most recent pictures

2009-05-23T16:15:00.000-07:00

Our baby girl finally cooperated for the 3D ultrasound (third time's the charm). We think she's cute.

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-17T05:23:00.001-07:00

Mel sent beautiful tulips for Mother's Day and a snoogle body pillow. Thank you honey!

Mel sends pictures from Baghdad

2009-05-04T16:42:00.001-07:00

Mel and balloon pics . . .

Mel and SASC 5 thankful for the six boxes of goodies sent by the Morgan Stanley Clayton Branch. Mel and his team have enough snacks to get them through the deployment.

My club team qualifies for NATIONALS!

2009-05-04T16:41:00.003-07:00

My Southwest Illinois 16-1 club team qualified for Nationals by taking 2nd place in the Gateway Regional Tournament. Along the way, we defeated Rockwood Thunder 16-1 (ranked 7th in the nation) and CYC 16-1 - both in two games. We should have came in first, but ran out of juice in the end. Overall the team played really well and I'm sure they're all excited to head down to Miami, Florida at the end of June!

SASC 10

2009-05-04T16:41:00.001-07:00

SASC 5+5 =10

Birthday Weekend!

2009-04-26T12:33:00.000-07:00

My sister, Leah, flew out for my birthday weekend and we had a great time. Highlights included: yummy dinner at Franco, homemade peach muffins, massages, Poochie bonding, sweet seats at the Cards vs. Cub baseball game and Cards win, brunch at the Boathouse with friends, sabotaging facebook status updates, and discovering my new favorite breakfast place Cafe Osage!

Random Pics.

2009-04-22T20:08:00.000-07:00

We have wonderful friends who have been sending us awesome presents. Here are a few . . .

Baby M's first pair of Nikes from Uncle Jamie and Auntie Kate in Boston.

We love Harvard Soccer!

Adidas goodies (first pair of Adidas kicks) from the Brown Family in South Bend and DB added red velvet cupcake mix to the package. I plan to bake them this weekend.

We love Notre Dame Volleyball!

I baked my triple chocolate cookies for my Morgan Stanley co-workers as a thank you for supporting Mel and his SASC team in Baghdad. They were a hit.

28/29 weeks as of mid April.

Go Bears!

2009-04-19T19:10:00.001-07:00

Mel sent some Cal gear my way for an early bday present. He got me a very comfy Cal t-shirt that Adam Sandler wore in the film "Bedtime Stories". It's autographed by Adam Sandler too. Proceeds from the sale of my t-shirt went to the Berkeley Food and Housing Project's Quarter Meal Program. Mel also added to Baby M's collegiate onesie collection. I'm going to add a little volleyball to a couple of the onesies. Go Bears!

Easter care package for Mel and his platoon :)

2009-04-10T07:05:00.000-07:00

Once again my friend and co-worker, Maureen Ragsdale, organized an effort to send some care packages for Mel and the members of the SASC (Security Agreement Secretariat Cell). We ended up packing 6 boxes and they were delivered to Baghdad shortly after Easter. Thank you to the Morgan Stanley family for rallying around this cause. Mel and his team truly appreciate all the generosity and goodies.

Victor's Graduation!

2009-04-05T15:01:00.000-07:00

Victor graduated from his Repiratory Tech Program at the end of March and my dad, sister and I all flew in from various parts of the country/world. Dad made the trek from Manila, while Leah flew in from Baltimore, and I flew in from St. Louis. I flew Southwest and got a sweet Southwest credit for volunteering to give up my seat. They didn't need me to give up my seat in the end, but still gave me a free flight. I love Southwest Airlines!

Memories from this weekend include:

Finding the Kogi truck on Eagle Rock Blvd and making friends with some college kids who gave us cuts in line. Instead of waiting 1 1/2 hours for Korean BBQ tacos, we only waited 30 minutes. Love it!
The traditional Lovely breakfast at Pat and Lorraine's. Mom ordering an egg white omelette - complaining about the fact that they charge an additional $2.50 for egg whites and then only eating like two bites of it.
Spending 2 hours at the DMV with Victor getting Mel's BMW officially registered in Vic's name.
Vic's graduation gown that he picked up right before the ceremony started. He had some pretty sweet creases.
Vic finally getting his diploma! Way to go little bro! Dad falling asleep at yet another graduation ceremony.
Celebratory family dinners at Outback and CPK.
Meeting up with Kelly Kuebler O'Connor, her mom Bea, and finally meeting Kelly's daughter Selah Bea.
Seeing Jessi, of course, and getting sweet outfits for Baby M.
Going from Seal Beach to Woodland Hills and running into traffic on a Saturday!
Sharing a room with my sister Leah (just like the good old days).
Yummy breakfast burritos at LAX.

Mini Magnum Reunion in Seal Beach, CA

2009-04-05T14:59:00.000-07:00

While I was in California for Victor's graduation weekend, I met up with my Magnum Volleyball Club teammate Kelly Kuebler O'Connor who has a beautiful baby girl, Selah Bea, who just turned one the past weekend. Kelly looks fab of course while I look like the Buddha on my Lucy t-shirt.

Happy Anniversary!

2009-04-05T14:56:00.000-07:00

Mel and I are celebrating our one year anniversary today. I'm off to SqWires (the location of our wedding/reception) to have dinner with Kate Bailey and the Prue Family.

The Expanding Belly

2009-02-28T21:00:00.001-08:00

January 31, 2009

February 14, 2009

February 28, 2009

Valentine's Day in the Lou!

2009-02-22T07:39:00.001-08:00

My mom, Leah, Kate, Nina and I enjoying

a Valentine's Dinner at Modesto in the Hill.

A beautiful flower arrangement that

Kate's husband, Mike, had delivered to the restaurant

for Valentine's Day/wedding anniversary.

Every girl LOVES a little something from Tiffany's!

Thank you honey!

Happy Valentine's Day from Iraq!

2009-02-07T20:21:00.000-08:00

Mel sent a little something from Iraq. I even got my first card from my baby girl. So sweet.

Thanks from Baghdad

2009-02-04T11:50:00.000-08:00

Maureen,

Hope all is well in Clayton! Please pass on my thanks to everyone there at Morgan Stanley for the care packages you've sent. What an amazing display of generosity and caring. I apologize for taking so long to express my thanks--just as the packages started coming through, I got a mission change that meant a significant uptick in workload.

As you may have heard, the US and the Government of Iraq (GoI) signed a Security Agreement which went into effect on Jan 1. The document gives the US legal basis to remain in Iraq. Much like we have agreements with other countries like Germany and Japan, the agreement establishes the rules of which we must abide to remain and operate in what is now (or again) a sovereign country. Right now, there is a great deal of work necessary to establish the processes and procedures to ensure we operate to the spirit of the agreement. I've been working with the establishment of joint (US and Iraqi) committees which will work a myriad of these issues.

Rest assured, my personal safety is not that big of a concern (knock on wood). I am a headquarters puke on this tour and I haven't done much traveling so far. I've only left the base one time, and things outside of the wire are considerably safer than they were last time I was here in 2005. My greatest safety concern is keeping from catching a cold as I walk the 25 meters to the shower every morning. Of course, there are many young brave men and women who still face very dangerous situations everyday so keep them in your prayers.

Again thanks for the amazing generosity. The assortment of goodies you all sent was ridiculous. I'll tell you our Brigadier General loves coming down to have meetings in our little work area because he knows we have well stocked snack bar courtesy of Morgan Stanley. The Fruity Snacks and Slim Jims were especially hot commodities and didn't last very long. Compliments to whoever picked the movies as well. I have only had time to watch one so far but I'm looking forward to watching one tonight (Saturday nights are like Friday nights here--we don't have to go to work on Sunday until 1 pm).

I'm planning on taking some video that Louella can share with you (sort of like a day in life). Hope to get that in the mail in the next couple of weeks. Hope everyone there is doing well. Thanks again for the packages and for looking out for the Mrs.

Take care,
Mel

Melvin E. Maxwell Jr., Major, USAF
MNF-I CJ 1/4/8
Security Agreement Secretariat Cell
DSN: 318-485-5473
SVoIP:241-9869
melvin.maxwell@iraq.centcom.mil
melvin.maxwell@s-iraq.centcom.smil.mil

P.S. To all MS employees.

Thank you to all that donated to our holiday boxes to Mel and his co-workers.We sent 4 boxes due to your generosity.We plan to do this again close to Easter.I'm sending this to all the employees, as I felt Mel's email was so informative regarding our Country's current position in Iraq.

And it was Kevin Haar that picked the movies, so great job Kevin!
-Mo

Doc's visit #5

2009-01-29T21:39:00.000-08:00

Baby Maxwell is a GIRL! She's 7 ounces and 8 inches long from head to toe. She likes to move around a lot during ultrasounds. She looked like she was trying to suck her thumb, was rubbing her cheeks, was kicking up a storm, even yawned a couple of times. The doc pushed back my due date to July 2, 2009 as the baby's measurements looked more like an 18 week old as opposed to a 19 week old. Since I'm a planner and keep track of everything, I was able to confirm with the doc the exact date of conception and that fit in perfectly with the updated due date. Mel stayed late in the office and was able to call in during the ultrasound (it was past midnight in Baghdad). It was funny because the baby had her legs crossed for the first 10 minutes, so she kept us waiting to find out the news. Everything looks good with the baby. I, on the other hand, got busted by my doc because so far I have gained ZERO pounds. My focus for the next 4 weeks is to eat, eat, and eat. Red velvet cupcakes, here I come!

California Love

2009-01-20T17:44:00.000-08:00

Mini Magnum Reunion

Andy "Hall of Fame" Ferchaw

Gale "The Hammer" Oborn Johnson

Mom and I enjoying

authentic Mexican

huaraches. Yum!
Victor and Jessi enjoying

huaraches as well.

Kirsty and Randy!

Kirsty, me, and Jessi in

beautiful San Diego!

Doc Visit # 4

2009-01-15T08:14:00.000-08:00

Dr. Smith measured my tummy today and said I'm right where a 17-week pregnant lady should be. We also listened to the baby's heart beat today. At first she couldn't hear it because the baby was busy moving around. Then we heard it - still strong and fast. The baby was moving around a lot - must be an athlete just like mommy! Anyways, Dr. Smith says everything looks good. The next appointment is January 29th when we have the super duper ultrasound. That's when we find out if we're having a boy or a girl. Yippee!

When drawing blood goes wrong . . .

2009-01-10T20:32:00.001-08:00

Recently I had the unfortunate experience of having to go to the ER at St. Elizabeth's in Belleville, IL (not the hospital where I'm delivering) last Monday morning and this is what happened when the nurse drew my blood. Keep in mind, she was excited that my veins were so big.

USA Volleyball Holiday Camp

2009-01-10T05:28:00.000-08:00

I miss being in the gym with great volleyball players! We had a very talented group of 6-8th graders. They worked extremely hard and got so much better by the end of camp. Our coaching staff consisted of our fearless leader, Charlene Johnson-Tagaloa, who ran an excellent training camp. Scott Blackmon and I coached together last year on the Youth A2 team, Kyle Kvasnicka has been in the HP pipeline for a few years, and Nicole Davis - the libero for our USA Women's National Team that won the silver medal in Beijing. Tracy Stalls joined us a day late, but was a wonderful addition to the staff. Tracy won a National Championship at Nebraska and has trained with the USA Team for a few years. She's headed to play professional volleyball in Turkey. Good luck Tracy! Last but not least, Gary Matthews, was behind the scenes making sure that everything ran smoothly. Thanks for everything Gary - HP Select loves you!

Char, Tracy, and I being silly on the net.

Our "babies" outside the gym at the OTC.

Our "babies" after a training session.

Sierra - tons of personality and just kept me laughing the entire camp. "Hey girl, keep those hands high!"

Friends in Baghdad

2009-01-09T07:17:00.001-08:00

Mel had to go to the Green Zone yesterday for some meetings and got to see Chris Kay - one of his classmates from the Air Force Academy. Chris and his family also live in O'Fallon, IL. We all played on a volleyball team put together by Kevin Haar that dominated Trueman's on Monday nights last summer. The boys had lunch together and even posed for a picture packing heat!

Thank Goodness for Friends like Erin!

2008-12-27T12:26:00.000-08:00

An email from Erin Noble - our dear friend who is watching Poochie while I'm in Colorado.

Hi Mel and Louella,

I wanted to let you know that BB, Poochie, and I are having a wonderful time in the STL. Poochie told me that she wants to live in Lafayette Square so she could be closer to her BFF, BB.

Anyways, I attached a couple of pics in case you were having withdrawal from your little princess (or me?!?).

Mel - I hope your Christmas went well. I'm thinking about you and can't wait till you're back!

Erin

Christmas with the Coulters

2008-12-26T22:04:00.000-08:00

Merry-day-after-Christmas y'all! I spent Christmas with the Coulter Family in Ft. Collins, Colorado. Brook picked me up from DIA. I forgot how big DIA was until I had to walk from B88 all the way to the train to the terminal. It took me a good 15 minutes using the high speed walkways and such. We drove up to Ft. Collins, picked up Brook's grandpa who's recovering from a stroke and doing really well for being in his 90's, and headed to Brook's house. Brook's grandpa was stationed at Scott Air Field back in the day, so we had a lot to talk about with Mel being stationed at Scott. After a short stop at the Coulters, we headed to Uncle Jay's house. We had a great Christmas at Uncle Jay's. All of Brook's cousins were there and it was so fun to watch the gift exchange. They also do the unveiling of the family calendar after they open all their presents and they laugh and reminisce about the pictures month to month. After that we had a wonderful traditional Christmas meal. It was very tasty. I took a "trip to fancoma" after our dinner while everybody cleaned up and I woke up just in time for the viewing of Fred Claus. All in all, it was a great Christmas in Ft. Collins and I'm very appreciative that the Coulters took me in for the holiday.

Brook and I did a little gift exchange earlier in the day and I got a Denver Athletics t-shirt (in hot pink - it was their Dig for the Cure t-shirt, so I was super pumped to get one), an ornament, pikake soap, some smelly good spray and bracelet from Nicaragua. I gave Brook her framed wordle (check it out on www.wordl.net - thanks Ginny) which she loved and gave her family some gooey butter cake from Gooey Louie.

This morning we headed to Walmart to exchange the camera that my Morgan Stanley co-workers got for me. I couldn't do the all pink camera, but ventured out of my comfort zone and exchanged it for a pretty sweet all plum camera. I took my first picture on it of the Coulters in front of their tree. We also got Mel's birthday present and shipped it off to Iraq. Hopefully he likes it.

Brook was kind enough to drive me all the way to the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs for the USA Volleyball Select Holiday Camp. It is always such an honor to coach such great kids and coach with wonderful coaches. Char and I are back together again and we always have such a great time. The laughs began immediately and we had a great first session. I'm looking forward to some great practices, awesome food at the OTC cafeteria, and as always constant laughter.

Our Morgan Stanley Family

2008-12-20T08:54:00.000-08:00

Every year during the holiday season, the Morgan Stanley Clayton branch participates in a charitable endeavor. This year, Maureen Ragsdale, suggested that we send care packages to Mel and his logistics team in Baghdad. I really thought it was a great idea as care packages, especially during the holiday season, mean so much to the troops overseas. This past Thursday, we put all the boxes together. I was overwhelmed by the sheer amount of goodies we were sending overseas - all sorts of snacks, toiletries, magazines, DVDs, games, etc. Maureen, Crystal, and Kevin did all the shopping and did a wonderful job. We ended up sending 4 huge boxes. Hopefully Mel will get the boxes in time for the holidays.

Before we packed all the boxes, Maureen & Crystal presented me with a little gift. Since Mel took our camera to Baghdad, my co-workers pitched in to get me a new camera so I could take pictures of my ever-expanding belly to send to Mel. I was so overwhelmed by the meaningful gift that I broke down crying like a little baby. Of course, I blamed it on all the hormones. I thanked everyone for all of their generosity, support, and love. It truly means so much to have such a great extended family here in St. Louis.

Doc's visit #2

2008-12-19T18:32:00.000-08:00

I went to see Dr. Smith yesterday and I got to hear the baby's heart beat with some funny looking contraption. It was pretty cool. The baby's heart was beating super fast. Dr. Smith said the baby was on the very high end - 160 beats per minute. Many people have told me that if the baby's heart beat is towards the high end of the spectrum, you'll have a girl. I asked Dr. Smith about this and she said it's too early to tell. So, I'll wait till the end of January when we have the super duper 3-D ultra sound to find out if Baby Maxwell will a boy or a girl and yes, both Mel and I want to know whether we're having a boy or a girl. We are both planners and like to know things in advance.