The other night at dinner, we were eating and talking…being loud and silly around our kitchen table when Andrew looked at me and said “I love having four kids” and I was like, yeah, me too! It just feels like we’re all here now. Now…I don’t know if we are or not…we’re going to let God open or shut that door…but, it was such a good feeling to sit at our kitchen table and think that everyone was there. It seems like for the last 3 years, someone has been missing. We were either sitting at the table thinking about sweet Ashby (who we were waiting on), or then it was Madeley that we thought about, but right this minute, we feel very complete.
Here are some pics from our week as a family of six…
The key to getting everyone up and dressed early in the morning…jet lag 😉 . When all six of us were awake at 2:00 AM, getting ready for school was a breeze.
At the doctor on Friday, Madeley figured out crayons and coloring. She’s colored several times at home now and lights up when I pull the crayons out.
Friday night snuggles on my bed with Madeley.
And Saturday morning snuggles too.
At the boys’ football game on Saturday, Erika and I enjoyed all the baby snuggles we could get.
Smith LOVED his first flag football game!
Catherine took this picture of me and these two sweet babies. I think they already like each other 😉 .
After football, we hit Oktoberfest with my fam. I LOVE OKTOBERFEST! (By the way, I have like the BEST dad in the world. He’s really special.)
My four babies.
And my honorary baby Samuel Thomas 😉 . I could hold him all day.
Big sister Kensington introduced Madeley to snow cones…
…and then of course, big sister Ashby did too.
Three kiddos heading into the petting zoo.
You know…just brushing a goat.
And petting some pigs.
We can’t get enough German food. Apple strudel for the win!
Root Beer is a fave for my kids at Oktoberfest…
…even the littlest kiddo enjoyed some root beer.
Ah! My little family. It feels like we’re all here.
When jet lag just knocks you out. Please note, big sister Ashby shared her wand with Madeley and now, she won’t put it down.
Ashby wanted pigs in a blanket for lunch this week…and Madeley was a big fan!
I was trying to put away laundry when this one toddled in. I couldn’t resist a cuddle.
Smith was showing Madeley his iPad game. She looks interested, right?!
The newest little Shull.
You know what the sweetest part about this adoption is? How seriously cute my big kids are with Madeley. I don’t know what it is…but all three of them are currently obsessed. They want to feed her, hold her, play with her…I’m often asking them to get out of her face and give her some space because they seriously cannot get enough. I know that might change later…but as of right now, they’re totally smitten. They ask me to wake her up first thing in the morning and the first person they want to see after school is her. It really is like she is not just mine and Andrew’s baby, but she is the family’s baby (sorry Madeley…that might be your lot in life!).
That’s a little life lately for your Thursday.
xo
Jenny says
Such a sweet family!! Please consider doing a post on how your kids keep themselves entertained so that you are able to continue with the things you need to do as a mom – your kids always look like they busy themselves at airports/ home etc and I think that’s my number one struggle, my kids always needing my attention. I really love spending time with them but then I also have certain things I need to get done as a mom. I loved the pic at the airport where you are sitting reading a book – now I did that pre-kid days but haven’t managed to since. You seem to have a lovely routine/system going and I would love some tips!
Sarah @ Foxy's Domestic Side says
Yes this! I would love to know too!
Corinne says
Yes!!! Also, how do you let your bigger kids play with their “big kid” toys without the little one getting in their stuff. I want my 4-year old to be able to play with her stuff without the toddler constantly being involved. Plus some of her stuff is a choking hazard/just not safe for babies.
Narci says
Oh, Madeley! Could you be any more precious! What Andrew said totally made me tear up! Such a sweet week for your family! So happy for you!
Erika Slaughter says
Love your Oktoberfest pictures! When I was there the line for that apple strudel was SO long! So we got ice cream instead. 🙂
Katie says
I love all these family pictures – the sweetest!! We’re in the process of adopting a little girl from Colombia ❤️ And our kiddos couldn’t be more thrilled for a baby sister. Also – where do you get these adorable headband/wraps? I’m going to need to pack some ????
Mix and Match Mama says
They’re from Ruby Blue on Etsy :). Congratulations!!!
Holly Hopkins says
Beautiful Family! So happy for all of you what a blessing she is goimg to be to you all.
Sheaffer says
Love what Andrew said. SO SWEET. Love all your pictures of your life lately. Miss Madeley is fitting right on in with her forever family. Love that girl already. xoxo
Gwen says
I love seeing Madeley’s sweet but uncertain little face, because I know that it won’t be long before she’s as happy and confident as Ashby is now. And I love how caring, helpful, and loving the other kids are to their new sister.
Deirdre Lennon says
Congratulations Shull family! Who wouldn’t be obsessed with little Madeley, she’s adorable! I know she is going to blossom like Ashby did. Enjoy every minute of it ????
Kelly says
Life lately is pretty darn good 🙂 So great to see you all settling in. Sweet days.
Britt Hensley says
So, so precious! She has the sweetest little serious face, but then her whole face lights up when she smiles! God is so good!
Tracy says
Precious! It looks like she’s doing really well! So happy for all of you. 🙂
Jen says
Such a sweet family!! From what I can see, you are a great mom! Quick question..Where did you get that cute top that you wore to the football game? Thanks!
Mix and Match Mama says
Nordstrom :). The brand is Rails.
Regine Karpel says
So good.
http://www.rsrue.blogspot.com
Megan says
“We’re all here.” So beautifully stated.
My oldest frequently points out there is still an empty chair at our kitchen table. Maybe God has one more trip to China in his plan for us? Or maybe His plan is beyond what we can imagine for ourselves. Thanks for sharing!
Ann says
So precious! I became a momma almost 27 years ago thanks to a selfless act of a young lady. Adoption is wonderful. Thanks for sharing your pics and posts. BTW…what is the lipstick you are wearing? It looks beautiful on you.
Lizzie @ This Happy Life says
Seeing you all so happy seriously made me so happy reading this post! I wish our town did an Oktoberfest!
Paula says
That feeling being complete is so good. Sweet moment!
Madeley has had a good first week. Definitely showered with love. Can’t go wrong there.
Adrienne says
Thank you for sharing your adoption journey with all of us! The pictures of the whole family together are extra sweet knowing how long you waited and hoped for all four of your babies 🙂 What is the lip color from the football/Oktoberfest pictures? It’s such a fun fall color!
Mix and Match Mama says
It’s Plum Rose from Bobbi Brown :).
kathy says
You look radiant. I’m so happy for each one of you!
Alicia F says
I adore Madeley’s stoic serious little face. I can’t wait to see her light up with smiles soon.
Kim Nations says
Such sweet pictures of a beautiful family. Has anyone mentioned that Madeley looks like Andrew.. THere is something about her in pictures that looks like him.. He should be proud. Love your blog and all your cookbooks..
Brooke Richardson says
I waited a long time in line for that apple strudel and it was sooooo worth it!!! I love love love the pic of Smith showing Madeley a game on his iPad and the pic of Madeley all MJ’ed out at the end of your post is to die for! Being able to watch this journey just brings me to tears! Love you guys!!!
Lindsay D. says
Love the pictures!! Thanks for sharing them!!
Laci says
Life Lately looks good friend! Your family is such a blessing to others and thank you for sharing it with us!
Jessica Lewis says
Yes yes yes! Our 4th just turned one. He was a total surprise to us…but once he was here. We just felt complete like you were saying. Our family just made sense. And mine are like that too with the baby…. they are constantly in his face, toting him around, totally obsessed with him. It’s not as much as it was in the beginning, but even a year later they are asking to get him and hold him, to feed him, fight over who gets to hold his hand, etc. It’s sweet. Love love love keeping up with your family.
Danielle i says
So cute!! I love how happy everyone look! 🙂 I was wondering what color lipstick you’re wearing, specifically in the picture when you’re eating the German food. It’s so pretty! Thank you! 🙂
Mix and Match Mama says
Bobbi Brown Plum Rose 🙂
Emily says
Cant get over how adorable Madeley is!! looks like the first week has been a very positive one for you and your family. Thank you for showing us a glimpse into your daily life as a mom. I grew up in a family with 4 kids (3 girls & 1 boy), and I loved it!! Always had a playmate, always something going on, never a dull moment for sure. Your kids are truly going to love having so many siblings. My brother definitely had to learn how to play with girlie things and we had to remember not to exclude him……but I can see from your posts that Smith has no such problem… such a good brother!
Natalie Clark says
So happy for y’all, and so glad everything is going well now that y’all are back! I love the face Madeley makes!
Megan says
I can’t get enough pictures of your 4!!!! And the girls feeding MJ snocones! The best!!!
Ashley says
Congratulations on the new edition to your adorable family! I love Madeley’s oh-so-serious face, she is a doll!
shell says
thank you for sharing your story. You are courageous and an inspiration.
Lindsey Schubert says
I have so many thoughts when I read this post – I think of how equally blessed the Shulls & Miss Madeley are with your decision to adopt, I LOVE seeing the older kids care for Madeley and I’m also wondering how you have all the time and energy to do all of this! 😉 Xoxo
heidi says
What a blessing you are to each other. I’m always amazed at how much love our Father in Heaven has for his children. The shull family have each other, what a beautiful thing☺
I’m so excited to see Madeley grow like we have seen Ashby. What beautiful children with amazing parents x
Chasity says
You and your posts always make my days brighter! I love the love that your family has. Something that is truly admired!
Jessica Tilson says
Soo happy for y’all! 🙂 I love reading your updates about Madeley!
Dorinda says
Smith looks a lot like your dad! Looks like the family is coming together great.
Rebecca Jo says
I love seeing Ashby as the “Big” sister now – feeding ice cones to Madeley – she’s going to take her new role seriously 🙂
You look like a complete family, for sure.
Your daddy… he is just the best. I bet he & your mom are loving all these grandbabies
Terri says
What a beautiful family you have. True blessings! I love reading your blog. From your family to your fashion and last but not least your recipes! Thank you!
Rebecca Smith says
Beautiful family! Ms. Madeley fits in perfectly. Where are your gold hoop earrings from your Oktoberfest outfit? They’re the perfect size!
Thank you!
Mix and Match Mama says
Kendra Scott!
Jenny says
What a sweet family you have. 🙂 And someday, I’m going to experience this Oktoberfest that I hear everyone speak so much about.
Melanie says
So happy for you guys and the feeling of completeness!! Your family is beautiful, inside and out 🙂 Thanks for blessing my day!
Kaylee says
So sweet!!! I remember having my third baby and telling my mom (Who birthed 10 kids) that it just got better with each kid, because I am SOOOO much more relaxed and can just enjoy the good things more and the bad things aren’t as overwhelming and frustrating anymore. She told me to imagine what number 10 feels like (I can’t, but I got what she was saying, haha ;)). I’m sure it’s a similar thing mixed with adoption. You just enjoy each child more I think as you get more experienced. Thanks for sharing your journey! What a sweet thing!
lauren truman says
Couple of questions: when you first bring your newly adopted kiddos home, do you allow other people to hold them? I’m just wondering from a attachment standpoint.. 🙂 Also, is Madeley sleeping with you and Andrew like Ashby did or is she in a crib? You have been in daily prayers all the way from Minnesota! XOXO
Mix and Match Mama says
So far, no one has held her but us and the pediatrician (just for a minute). We’ve been trying to do things just like we did with Ashby and so far, so good :).
April Parrish says
I feel like your big kids…I can’t get enough of little Madeley either!!! Love this post and seeing how she is fitting right in with the Shull’s!!!! Prayers for you and your sweet family!
Lisa says
This seems like such a silly question to ask on such an adorable post (I’ve loved following along with your adoptions, by the way!), but how do you get so much volume in your hair when you wear it up?! Looks great. 🙂
Congratulations on your family of 6!
Mix and Match Mama says
Hahaha! I blog about my hair tomorrow! Come back :).
Jessica says
So sweet. Love hearing your story. Thanks for sharing it….
Deirdre Lennon says
Shay, I wanted to ask you where do you get the personalized bands for the Nalgene water bottles? I have looked online but can’t find them anywhere. Thanks!
Mix and Match Mama says
inchbug.com 🙂
Deirdre Lennon says
Thanks ????
Angela Ellingson says
I love that you have that “we’re all here” feeling! What a journey you have been on from trying to get pregnant years ago, to having your two oldest so close in age, to waiting for Ashby, to waiting for Madeley. So happy for you to be in this sweet time for your family! And goodness, how adorable do you all look together?! Hugs! Oh and PS, baby Samuel is just precious as well!
Lindsay @ Lindsay's Sweet World says
It looks like things are going great! And it’s heartwarming to hear that you feel that all of the pieces of the puzzle are here now! I know you guys are just so excited to have that feeling!
Kristina says
I’d love to hear more about the bonding process with Madeley (and Ashby) as well as your thoughts on cocooning. Both girls seem to just fit right in and go with the flow! You have a beautiful family!
Lucy says
Adorable! Your family’s truly blessed. In the picture of you with the two babies at the football game, I see a reflection/outline of a baby’s face on your neck. What caused that? Just curious.
Mix and Match Mama says
I think it’s just a weird shadow.
Jackie says
Hi Shay – LOVE this post as well but I too was wondering the same thing, “how does she get so much volume when her hair is up and how does it look cute?” lol so I can’t wait for tomorrow’s post! Need a quick hair fix for busy weekends when I don’t necessarily want to “do” it. Thanks and many blessings to your fam of 6!!
Stephanie says
Congratulations on your new addition!! So excited for you! Thank you for sharing your family with us. I love when your share about your house. Will Madeley have her own room eventually? Do you have an extra room waiting for her when you designed your house? Would love an updated tour …
Jules says
Please tell me the color of lipstick you are wearing in the picture with your Dad. It looks amazing!
Mix and Match Mama says
Thank you! Bobbi Brown Plum Rose 🙂
Ann Marie says
Hadley, Layton and I just scrolled through these pictures and LOVED them!!!! They were so giddy- it was adorable!!
Nicole says
All of your kids are adorable. They all seem to have such sweet personalities. However, every time I see Ashby hamming it up for the camera, I giggle to myself. This is definitely bringing joy to my day reading your current updates.
Christina says
I keep waiting for someone to ask you your nail polish color. it’s great for fall. I always love new. nail polish colors.
Mix and Match Mama says
Essie’s After School Boy Blazer 🙂
Lesley McFarland says
Such sweetness. From the outside looking in your family seems as one…MJ is just the cutest thing. I cannot wait to see her grow along with K S A….let the fun begin!!!
Erin says
I love all these sweet posts SERIOUSLY! Madeley is precious and our baby right now is everyone’s favorite too so your last comment made me relate. I love the deep love siblings have for one another…it’s my deep desire their strong love will carry into adulthood :).
Amber says
Where did you get Madeley’s big lace bows? So cute! She is such a sweetheart! Love seeing more and more smiles from her in your photos. She is blessed to have three big siblings who are in love with her. She is going to love always having buddies to play with! 🙂
Kelly Woodland says
I have never commented – but this post is just hitting me right in the heart! I love that little Madely is making such HUGE strides in her development, in ways that even obvious through our computer screens! This speaks volumes of the love and structure in your home. I can’t give you enough applause for how far both Ashby and Madely have come within your family. LOVE THIS!!
Abigail Leggate says
Shay, I adore your little family and I have never commented before but I have been reading your blogs since before ya’ll adopted Ashby! You are such a wonderful role model for a mother and a wife and I love reading your posts!!
Melissa Newcome says
I am new here & have loved reading about your sweet family! Could you tell me where the girls’ cute fluffy bow headbands are from? Thanks!!
Mix and Match Mama says
Ruby Blue on Etsy!
Abby says
I am just so obsessed with your blog. I am currently 18 years old, completely single, but you make me so excited to have a family one day. At church, we are beginning our “F.A.L.L Project,” aka “Find a Little Love Project.” We have a social worker that attends our church, and she gets foster kids names for us, along with pants size, shirt size, jacket size, shoe size, and an item on their wishlist. Then families in our church begin to shop for them, and around Christmas they come to our building and we present each child their gifts along with some yummy food their foster parents can make Christmas morning. We also give each child a bible. This will be our second year doing this. Last year, I had to leave the room as the kids were opening their presents because I began to sob. It was one of the most beautiful things I have ever seen. I plan to adopt someday and if I can’t, I plan to foster. There are some amazing kids out there without a home. It isn’t fair! Thank you for all that you do. God bless!