The family that makes trash

Best Friend Ever!

2009-11-02T14:44:00.000-08:00

Amber spent yesterday afternoon with us, and let me say, my kids were in rare form! It was an afternoon of constant crying fits, temper tantrums and drama. And Amber put up with us through it all. She is an amazing friend and loves my kids whole heartedly. We are so blessed to have her in our lives!

Best Date EVER!

2009-11-02T13:25:00.000-08:00

Jake and I had the opportunity to go on a date our last night in Hawaii while Jake's parents stayed with the munchkids. We got some Chinese takeout, Dragon fruit, a bottle of Shiraz and a piece of mousse cake and raced to the beach to enjoy it all during sunset, which we barely made. It was wonderful eating and visiting with each other in such a beautiful setting. After the sun went down and we had the entire beach to ourselves, we wowed each other (well not really) with our lack of knowledge on what star constellations we could see. There is just something extra special about laying on a beach in perfect weather with your favorite person just talking and looking at the starts. Definitely, the best date ever!

Hawaii Part 5... Yes, there's more!

2009-11-02T12:56:00.001-08:00

Hawaii Part 4

2009-11-02T09:52:00.000-08:00

Hawaii Part 3

2009-11-02T09:28:00.001-08:00

Hawaii Part 2

2009-11-02T09:06:00.000-08:00

Hawaii Part 1

2009-11-02T08:54:00.000-08:00

Oatmeal Morning

2009-11-02T08:45:00.001-08:00

Allie Airborne

2009-09-22T17:00:00.000-07:00

Allison had the pleasure of taking her very first ride in Pappy's airplane. She had an absolute blast and from what I hear wasn't scared at all.

Artwork By Al

2009-09-22T15:11:00.001-07:00

Here are a bunch of finger paintings Allie has done in the last couple years.

Family Portrait

2009-08-30T22:00:00.000-07:00

Here is our first attempt at using the timer on our camera.

Ok, ok... so it needs a little work.

Adrian 1 Year

2009-08-30T10:44:00.000-07:00

Little Dude (as Allie calls him) turned 1 on the 27th. He is shooting up like a weed and has shown himself to be very mechanically minded. He already understand helping you dress him (by putting his arms into sleeves without too much resistance), knows that socks and shoes go on his feet and what a hairbrush, toothbrush and mirror are used for. He just decided in the last few days to walk for real (before he was just messing around) and I even had him walking with his sneakers on in the basket ball court a little bit ago.

His sissy is his FAVORITE play toy, he's definitely a momma's boy and plays so well by himself sometimes I think he would have been better off as an only child. He loves to hug, lay on and pull anything soft and sleeps with his sissy's stuffed dog. He can't resist a kitty laying anywhere within reach and makes a beeline for then as soon they come into view. Most of the time, they are pretty good natured about it, even when he full body lays on them.

His stats for his 1 year well baby check up are as follows:

Weight: 25lb 12 oz (he only gained 7 oz in the last 3 months, probably due to quitting his bottle)
Height: 32in
Head: 19.75in (still off the charts. My big headed babies!)

Where we live, Part 2

2009-08-30T09:38:00.001-07:00

Passing by some retail stores and Zeeks Pizza

Beautiful grassy circle surrounded by the brick homes
right by Bentley Hall.

Bentley Hall, Our Community Center.

There is another cute park back in that green area.

This is a fully fenced soccer field.
Nice place to let the kids kick around a ball

The other side of Central Park

Where we live, Part 1

2009-08-29T19:53:00.000-07:00

I shared, in a previous post, what our new home and area is like, but now I can show you the photos!

Our house front

From the side

The fire lane behind our house.
It goes to the elementary school and is our super short cut to the park

This is a really cool covered playground on the school property.
It is kitty corner to our house and very convenient when it rains.

Central Park

We spend most of our time here.

Hurray! New Camera

2009-08-29T19:49:00.001-07:00

Our poor camera met a sad end. Actually, we aren't exactly sure who or what broke it, but regardless it was nearly impossible to take pictures due to a shattered LCD. Jake thought he could fix it and ended up with a handful of leftover parts and a camera more broken then when he started. So, we decided to bite the bullet and get a new one (after my brother failed at his try of fixing the old one too). After 2.5 months of no camera, our new one finally arrived in the mail and we are back to our snap happy selves!

I wish I could take a picture of the new camera. It is unbelievably tiny, less then half the size and weight of our previous one which I thought was small when we got it. I will share all the lovely photos it takes so you can see the quality too. Superb!

The Wonder of Sippy Cups

2009-08-03T13:13:00.000-07:00

Adrian decided at 10.5 months he no longer wanted his bottle... at all! Just cold turkey! He went from downing 6-8 ounces 3 times a day to nothing. Normally that wouldn't be such a big deal except he was totally unable (or unwilling... not sure which) to drink for a sippy cup, straw or anything that would keep him from totally dumping milk all over himself every time he drank.

I tried several different spill free methods and finally gave up, resorting to taking out the lovely 'spill free' part and just had a huge mess to clean up after every meal. Plus it was stressing me that he was getting virtually no liquids as most ended up on him, the high chair and more popularly, the floor. However, he didn't seem too dehydrated so I tried to not worry too much.

After about 2 weeks, he just seemed to figure it out! He got a hold of my Camelback water bottle and was able to bite and suck at the same time, getting out enough water to gulp. So I gave him a sippy (with the spill free piece in place) and Viola! He downed the entire cup and another half in about 3 minutes. Of course, he drank it all too fast and proceeded to throw it back up, but I was not in the least bit upset. I could now envision spill free meals in my immediate future! Sigh..

Overall, I'm pretty excited about the whole thing. He has now eliminated the whole hassle of tring to break him of his bottle, which was pretty hard with Allie.

First Official Hike

2009-08-03T12:57:00.000-07:00

Our family did our first hike with the kids. It is something I did a lot before getting married and virtually not at all since then. But, since we live in Issaquah and Allie is fascinated by all the tall mountains (well, tall to her anyway) surrounding us, I decided we would take the kids on a little hike to see how they/we did.

Saturday, we drove to Snoqualmie falls (about 15 min from our place if you don't take the longest possible route... which we did unintentionally) which is only about 1/2 down (pretty steep) from the top to the boardwalk at the bottom. I had Adri in the back pack and Allie walked down on her own two feet. She did make it all the way down on her own and about 20 steps back up before Jake had to resort to the on the shoulder carry.

The kids had fun playing in the water at the bottom, but Jake and I got a little tired of the crowds that swarmed after we arrived. Over all, it was a good trip. One of Jake's coworkers has a backpack I think we will take for Al next time.

Sorry there are no pictures to show. Our camera is currently on the fritz.

Our new home

2009-07-11T20:29:00.000-07:00

I am sitting here trying to find the energy and words to express the whirlwind I feel we've been swept up in for the last several months. I am just coming off of a pretty crappy day, but in retrospect probably don't have a lot to complain about. We are all home, healthy, a little hot as we don't have AC yet, but mostly happy (Allie is talking in her room, Adri is asleep finally and Jake is gabbing with Dan... I'm the only grouchy one here).

We are fully moved into our new apartment in Issaquah, WA and I absolutely love it. It is in a large complex, but as we are the very last building at the top of the complex, it feels a little more secluded then it really is. We have 2 bedrooms, 3 floors and a tandem 2 car garage, so I no longer feel like I am living in a garage. Alleluia!!! The commute for Jake isn't spectacular but it isn't terrible either. The house is very bright, as we have 3 sides with windows, and the kitchen is my favorite room. It is large, bright, has lots of storage space and inspires me to cook and keep it clean. The only three downsides to this place are that both the bathrooms are on the top floor, it isn't a 3 bedroom (we are still struggling with sleep time having them in the same room), and it is a 15 minute walk to and from the park and ride (1 mile from us).

There are (so far that I have found) 6 parks within walking distance of our place (even for Allie's small steps and slow pace), 2 smallish retail centers (one that even has a coffee shop though I don't like their coffee), several restaurants (we have made it to 3 of them and I'm looking forward to the last 2) and lots of neighborhoods... Oh, and a grocery store going in between us and the P&R. There is a community center just up the street that does different classes for children and adults and I'm excited to get Allie set up with some new friends. We are also in the foothills of the cascades, so it is gorgeous even for Seattle standards.

I walk about 3 miles a day with the kids, Allie walking next to me and Adri on my back. We go to one of our favorite parks after lunch (before nap time) and then after nap we walk down to the P&R or coffee shop to meet Jake as he gets off the bus. The kids and I have done a lot of exploring around Issaquah itself and I feel like I know it pretty well.

Life is good in Issaquah!

Kids Photos 2

2009-06-26T08:47:00.001-07:00

Kids Photos 1

2009-06-22T13:55:00.000-07:00

Laura took a bunch of incredible photos of the kids while she was here the last 3.5 weeks. Here are some of my favorites!

Another Day At the Park

2009-05-26T09:37:00.000-07:00

Jake's parents flew their plane up here from Oregon for the weekend and we had a lot of fun playing with them. It was a gorgeous weekend which allowed for lots of park time (our favorite past time!). We hit two parks in one day and even made time for swimming in the hotel pool, which Allie had a blast regardless of the frigged temperatures (her lips were only slightly purple when we pulled her out).

Crawling

2009-05-26T09:34:00.000-07:00

Adrian has finally started crawling. It feels like he's been on the verge for months, but he started full swing this last week. There is just something so adorable about a chunky little boy doing the wobbly (because he's still not super solid, but gets more so every day) crawling where he looks like he's always on the verge of falling over. It's amazing to me how much more solid and faster he's gotten in just the last couple of days. It is definitely going to be a huge challenge to keep Allie's choking hazard toys off the floor and out of reach now!

Singing

2009-05-22T17:16:00.000-07:00

Allie absolutely LOVES to sing. Jesus Loves me and The Alphabet songs are her two favorites, though there are plenty more she demands on a regular basis. I had to share this video with you guys. I can't watch it without laughing.

Too Cute For Words!

2009-05-22T15:02:00.000-07:00

Park Days Ahead

2009-05-22T14:46:00.000-07:00

I am sooooo glad the sunny weather seems to have finally hit us and will hopefully stick around for a while. The kids and I have been going to the park at least once a day and sometimes twice if it is just too nice to stay inside. I can't even begin to tell you how much better our day goes if we can get outside and play for a bit.

After Adrian's morning nap, I pack up our lunch and both kids and we head over to Bothell Landing (our new favorite) Choo-Choo Park, or Juanita Beach (if we need some variety) and spend the next several hours running, eating, sliding, swinging (Al's personal fav) or playing in the grass. Adrian is starting to crawl and loves picking through the grass for whatever goodies seem to have fallen from the sky. I actually try to keep his binki in during this time as it deters him from sticking to many yuckies in his mouth.

It is definitely a challenge keeping them propery sun screened, but so far they haven't burned so I must be doing a good job!

I am starting to get so excited about our move to Issaquah (we found a townhouse style apartment with attached garage) that we will be moving into mid June. The complex has 3 parks within walking distance, as well as a coffee shop, a few restaurants and other misc shops. Woo hoo!!! No more unnecessary driving just to get outside!!! I'm looking forward to having lots of room to walk and play without having to load everyone up in the car. Hopefully it turns out as great as I imagine it to be!

Allie with her favorite friend Gavin

My Munchkids!

2009-05-22T14:40:00.000-07:00

Family Photo

2009-05-22T14:14:00.000-07:00

Mothers Day with Nana

2009-05-22T14:11:00.000-07:00

We had the pleasure of having my mom (Nana) visit for a week over Mothers Day and had a great time with her. Allie warmed up very quickly, especially considering she hadn't seen her since just after Adrian was born. It was very special watching them play together and giggle over silly songs and games.

She was a great help to me, babysitting, doing housework (she never sits still) and taking care of Adrian. I appreciated being able to get some doctor appointments done I had been procrastinating and Jake and I finally got to celebrate our anniversary (which was in April) as well as get in some good bike rides.

Thanks for putting up with us and our terrible two's mom. We love you Nana!!

Tattoos

2009-05-22T13:49:00.000-07:00

So, I'm not sure what lesson Jake is trying to teach Allie here, but these two little trouble makers had so much fun drawing 'tattoos' on Allie I didn't have the heart to stop them. I've resigned myself to a couple facts. 1) Allie may actually (because of adult influences) grown up to be a tattoo covered, scary girl in her teen years and 2) "Don't color on yourself!" will now hold no meaning to her as Daddy does it! (big sigh....) But look how much fun she had!

Slacker

2009-05-22T13:48:00.000-07:00

I have been meaning to take the time to get up some new posts as I have TONS of new and cute pictures of the kids. So here goes. I am sorry it's taken soooo long!

Allison

2009-04-29T21:34:00.001-07:00

Adrian 8 mo

2009-04-29T21:08:00.001-07:00

Adrian is 8 months going on 18 months if his clothing size is any indication of his age. He is absolutely HUGE! And a happier little guy, I have never seen. He is constantly laughing at his sister whether she is paying attention to him or just bouncing around the room (as she usually is). He rarely ever cries or fusses and seems to be constantly talking (dadadadadadaddadad being his knew favorite sound and no, that doesn't make Daddy his first word!).

He seems to have lost his babiness and is becoming such a little boy. He cut 6 new teeth (all within a couple weeks, poor guy!) to total 8 now. He is also starting to crawl. He makes it a few inches before flopping to his tummy, usually when reaching for something his sister has left on the ground that looks chewable. I'm pretty sure within the next few weeks he'll be all over the house on hands and knees. Watch out kitties! Here comes the bulldozer.

Speaking of kitties, I think both Opie and Lucy have already lost more hair to Adrian's hands then they ever did with Allie. He just loves to pull on their fur. And amazingly enough, the stupid cats just keep coming back for more! I guess in their defense, at this point any attention is good attention.

Smashing mashed potatoes into his face. He LOVES the mashed taters!

Hard Day, Good Lesson

2009-04-09T12:47:00.000-07:00

The Easter egg hunt we attended at our church was not what we expected this year. It was much anticipated (I have loved it the last 2 years) and we started the day on a high note. Allie and I went to Target earlier that morning to get her Easter basket and made it into a Starbucks donut date where she charmed all the old men there drinking their coffee.

The egg hunt started out as it has every year, with face painting, lunch (Mmm hotdogs and cookies) and then it was time for the entertainment. They use this time to get all the kids inside so they can begin putting out the eggs in the big grassy area.

So, Arnie the Yo-yo guy had all the kids wide-eyed and laughing with his quick whit and quicker hands as he performed one yo-yo trick after another while telling a story. About 10 minutes into the performance, a lady, a few rows in front of us stood up and asked if there were any nurses in the building. Her father-in-law (John Kirby) was having difficulty breathing.

Several nurses rushed forward to see what help they could be and they asked for a few men to help the gentleman from the room so he could be evaluated in a more private setting. As they were trying to transport him, he collapsed. This quickly sent all the men (without infants in their arms) in the room into motion, trying to move chairs out the way in an effort to lay him down.

During this time, the show had stopped and everyone had eyes forward, watching the commotion. Thankfully, Arnie quickly assessing the situation, made an announcement to have all the children head outside to begin the egg hunt as the nurses began chest compressions.

Jake took Allie out with the other kids and I remained behind, holding Adrian, hoping to see John get up and walk away unscathed. I just didn’t feel like I could be a part of the joyous egg hunt going on outside as there was a man barely holding on to his life, laying on the floor of the sanctuary.

I stood there for a few minutes, trying to hold back the tears, praying God would spare this man’s (whom I had never met before) life. Knowing I wasn’t of any help in there and definitely wasn’t going to be able to keep it together much longer, I went outside to see how everyone there was doing.

Thanks to Arnie’s quick thinking, I don’t think a single child (except maybe those close to John) had any clue what was transpiring inside. They were all happily collecting eggs in their colorful baskets in the sunshine. I spotted Jake and Allie in the 2-4 year old section and Jake told me they had left Allie’s basket inside the church (right by where they were still doing chest compressions on John).

I hesitatingly stepped back inside to grab her basket as Jake was already holding half a dozen eggs in his shirt. I made the mistake of looking towards everyone huddled around John just as the EMT said ‘he’s moving’, but all the movement I saw was him gasping for breath like a fish too long out of water. That did it. I completely lost it and started just balling.

I tried hard to collect myself before going back outside amongst the mayhem of happy, egg collecting children. Handing Allie her basket, I watched as she excitedly ran from egg to egg picking up as many as she could get to. While I was happy to see her enjoying herself so much, I also felt heavt guilt knowing a family there was experiencing such pain possibly watching a much loved father, husband and grandfather dying.

We left soon after and noticed all the emergency vehicles still there in the parking lot. They hadn’t moved John yet and Jake thought that was probably a bad sign. I did find out in church the next morning that he did make it through that day, thanks to the quick action of the nurses. Pastor Paul said John Kirby had suffered a major heart attack, but they were optimistic and hopeful he would live.

While I know that John was an older gentleman, that day left me reeling with the realization of how fleeting life is for all of us. Make the most of it!!!

Easter Egg Hunt

2009-04-09T09:51:00.000-07:00

This was Allie's 3rd Easter egg hunt at our church. She cleaned house! I joked with Jake about how we were going to coach her to push all the other kids out of her way so she could get all the eggs. Now, while she didn't push the other kids, she didn't have to either. Jake said as soon as they got into the egg strewn field, she skipped right over the groups of two and went straight for the big clumps. We actually had to pull her away from the rest of the eggs still in the grass so the other kids had a fighting chance. That's my girl!

Next week we will be staying in Oregon at camp Sassapap over Easter and Allie will get to do another egg hunt. She is already warmed up and more then up for the challenge!

That is her best friend Gavin in the background!
We visit them every Monday morning and the kids have a blast playing together.

Lovely Spring Has Arrived (Day 2)

2009-04-09T09:15:00.000-07:00

On Sunday after church (for the kids and I and skiing for Jake) we went to Juanita Beach, hitting Starbucks first of course we played on the swings and walked in the sand. It wasn't quite as warm this day, but still better then 30 and snowing!

Adri had his second time swinging and you can see how much he loved it! It is still Allie's favorite thing to do at the park and we usually have to tear her away from the swings when it's time to go.

Lovely Spring Has Finally Arrived! (Day 1)

2009-04-09T09:00:00.000-07:00

Last weekend was amazing! Warm, sunny and magical. We took the kids to the park twice each day and had such a great time.

The first day was the Kirkland waterfront walk. We parked at the library and walked to the first good park (which Jake thinks is about 1.5 miles). Luckily we had Adri in the backpack and Allie in the stroller or we would have never made it.

Motherhood

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

A few weeks ago I had the opportunity to just stop and take a breath while putting Allie to bed and it hit me. I am a mom. Yes, I did realize that before this point, but we spend so much time rushing through stuff, trying to stay ahead of meals, laundry, grocery shopping... etc, etc, that we really don't get to sit back and look at what we have.

On this particular day (that this major joy and responsibility hit me) I had just finished our night routine... you know, dinner, pjs, reading Dr Seuss (for the millionth time… thanks mom) and putting each in their respective beds (Allie in hers and Adri on ours until he's asleep). Allie stopped me after I kissed her and asked me to rub her back. How adorable is that?! She wanted just a little more of my time before she fell asleep. It was so sweet to just sit by her rubbing her little back until she was satisfied.

I have 2 amazing kids with such different and wonderful personalities. They both amaze me constantly with the new things they are learning and loving every day! I am blessed to be such an important part of their lives. I hope that every day I do my best for them both.

Pics

2009-03-12T17:25:00.000-07:00

Sunny Days

2009-03-12T17:13:00.000-07:00

This last week I've been trying to take the kids outside each day for an hour or so for some romping, running, grass picking and whatever else we do in the great outdoors. The last several days we've been out it's been absolutely freezing... as in the snow we had a few days ago still hadn't melted... freezing.

Today, as it is clear outside, I expected the same brisk temperatures and dressed myself and the kids accordingly. Allie had warm sweats on with her thick stockings underneath, gloves and a hat (I think today was actually the only day she's EVER kept them on), Adrian had his cute winter hat with warm jacket and I even wore a scarf. But when we got outside, I was pleasantly surprised to find it was actually warm. T-shirt weather warm! Allie had fun picking grass and even found a flower which she sniffed the entire walk home.

Bye, bye chair

2009-03-10T09:20:00.000-07:00

So, yet another really cute thing Allie does now is saying goodbye to everything within immediate sight when we are leaving the house. It usually starts with family and the kitties.. then moves on to play stuff and then to whatever is laying close at hand. Bye bye chair, bye bye balloon, bye bye shoes...

New things

2009-03-08T09:34:00.000-07:00

It has been fascinating to watch Allie grow. She seems to pick up new things each and every day, which always leaves me excited for her, but a little sad my baby is growing up so fa

New things she's doing:

Asking Why-ah to everything. She adds that little extra 'ah' to the end each and every time. It's cute! The other day on a very cold walk I commented how cold I was. Whyah came soon afterwards. We went through the sun not being very affective this time of year (whyah) because it is further from the earth (whyah), because it's winter (whyah), because winter comes after fall where the leaves fall (whyah), because... on and on until I run out of answers and just start saying Whyah back to her. Nothing like your toddler to challenge your bank of knowledge (or lack thereof)!

She started saying Yes like Yeahesss with a guttural sound from her throat (kind of like the catapiller from Alice and Wonderland)... so funny. And then we'd say it back to her that way and she caught on that it wasn't right. So now she says Yes very clearly and then adds the Yeahesss in a totally exaggerated way making fun of us, making fun of her.

She climbs into her car seat all by herself. I'm a little nervous she's going to fall back so I stand at the ready, but she's done really well so far. I'm waiting for her to figure out how to buckle it herself next.

She also wants to know constantly what we are doing. What mommy doin', Daddy doin', Adri doin? is uttered about a million times a day. And she will ask over and over again until you give her a satisfactory answer. That also seems to coincide with 'Where Daddy go?' which there are only 4 answers to (depending on the season). She knows them all. I ask it back to her and her first choice is Home. "No we are home, where is Daddy Allie? Um... Snowboarding. No, Daddy isn't snowboarding, where is he? Um.... Wall (this is the rock climbing wall)! Nope, not at the climbing wall either. Where is he? Um.... Work! Yep, he's at work! We go through this a number of times throughout the day. Of course during the summer snowboarding will change for Bike.

She loves, loves, loves her markers and playdough, both of which I only let her play in her high chair. The markers she colors more on herself then the paper/pictures but we are working on that one.

She also knows when she's done something wrong or hurts someone to say sorry. "Sorry Mommy" is said pretty frequently. She seems to be going through an "it's easier to ask for forgiveness then permission" stage.

She LOVES the kitties. They don't love her with quite the fervor she loves them, but for the most part they tolerate her. Lucy does better then Opie and will actually rub against Allie hoping for a petting. Allie usually ends up laying on her until she squeaks, but she doesn't really hurt her. They've also learned to hide behind stuff Allie can't get around if they need space, which of course upsets Allie.

Allie's favorite places to go are Big Play Place (Bellevue Square), Little Play Place (Alderwood Mall), Holly's house (we go once a week and play with Holly's 2 kids who are 4 months older then both of mine), and Starbucks (where she gets chocolate milk and sometimes doughnuts). I have to say for the most part she does us proud being out and about. She is so well behaved (especially at other people's houses) and always says please and thank you, shares with other kids well (unless they try to take her carebear figurines) and generally listens to direction unless she's really tired. Then all bets are off!

She is a movieaholic (like her mom) and would sit and watch her movies all day if you let her. We are pretty good and limit it to one a day (I'm pretty excited if we make it a whole day with no TV). Annoyingly enough, she cries every time they end and I usually have to send her to her room to fuss (fussing isn't allowed to be done where other people are) and she can come back out when she's ready to be happy. I try to give her a choice: Choose to be happy and stay out with mommy and Adri, or choose to fuss and go to your room. She usually chooses her room with her binkis and comes out a few minutes later saying "Allie's happy now Mommy!"

The other day in the car she said to me "No Worries Mommy". I must say that to her specifically in the car because that is the only place she says it to me.

Sleep Finally!

2009-03-08T09:29:00.000-07:00

Adrian slept through the night FINALLY! Jake put him to bed just before 9pm (quite a bit later then normal because he took his last nap later) and we didn't hear from him until he squeaked at 5:50am. I went to check on him and he was still asleep and stayed that way until 7:30am. It was awesome!

Last night he went down at 7:30 and slept through to 3:00 but then just wanted to play. I finally got him to eat a bottle and go back to sleep until 7:00 after being up for an hour. But still! That is huge progress from his normal schedule of waking 2 - 3 times a night. I'll take it!

Adrian 6 Mo

2009-03-03T16:18:00.000-08:00

Adrian had his 6 month checkup this Monday and I was once again AMAZED at how big he is. Here are his current measurements:

Weight: 23.8lbs
Height: 29 in
Head: 18.5 in

One more pound and he would have tripled his birth weight. No wonder I feel like I'm carrying a really, really heavy sack of potatoes around when I pick him up. I am actually pretty excited for him to start walking so he can get from one place to another without me lugging him there.

He is still such a happy little guy. His favorite toy is his Jumperoo where he will sit and jump for an hour, entertaining himself. He LOVES his sister and will just start laughing when he looks at her. She is also great at keeping him awake and happy in his car seat by playing peekaboo.

Sadly he isn't sleeping any better, but we haven't given up hope yet. He is fully on formula now (hallelujah my body is back to being my own again and the milk machine has been shut down!) and seems to be doing great on it. Thankfully, he is happy chowing down on the Costco brand which is a third of the price as normal Simalac or Enfamil, especially since he eats more then Allie, who cost a small fortune to feed during her first year. He is eating solids now too twice a day. We are still working at getting his over active tongue out of the way of the spoon, but he seems to like everything I've given him so far.

Titi (Aunt BethelLee)

2009-02-27T14:44:00.000-08:00

My sister Beth is moving back to Missouri after living here 3 days short of 1 year. I can't express in words how much I've loved having her around. Not just for support for me, but for what she has given to the kids having their aunt around.

Allie loves every time she comes over. She wants her to 'fly' her, which means anything from bouncing her around on her lap to holding her over her head and flying around the room. Beth taught Allie to count to ten by playing hide and go seek with her and playing this game where Beth would hold her in front with Al's legs around her waist and then on the count of three would flip her backwards and then pull her up again. I'm not sure which of them loved that more.

Beth has been fantastic with Adrian. She is always quick to do anything to take care of him. She even gave him a bath last night as well as got up with both kids during the night so I can sleep (you begin to see why I love having her here?!). She love tickling him and makes it her goal each day she has been here to get him to belly laugh. She definitely took the stress out of me being able to leave the kids with her because I knew they are in good hands as she loves them almost as much as I do.

Did I mention that she was always helping me either make and or clean up after dinners, would clean the cat box if it needed it (which it usually did) and even scrubbed my bathtub for me? A more helpful and caring sister never did exist. I have been truly blessed to have her here this last year and don't know how I'm going to be able to say goodbye on Sunday.

I know she will try to come every few months until she feels she can move back, but we will miss her terribly in between. We love you Beth!

Uncle Michael

2009-02-27T14:24:00.000-08:00

My brother Mike has been staying with us the last week and we've loved having him. He's like a big play toy for Allie who just adores him. She still talks about him from the last time he was here in February 2008 (I am amazed she remembered him, though he was here for a couple days in August too).

I've definitely taken advantage of having him around and have had him babysit a few times. This morning I took Allie to a friends house to play with her kids and left Adrian with Mike since he was napping when I wanted to leave. They did great of course. Mike even had to get him up from his nap, feed him and change his diaper. I like to think I'm just helping his future wife by training him early.

One morning I handed Adrian to Mike so I could sleep a little longer (which didn't really happen). I peaked out about half an hour later and Mike had him in his jumper and was just watching him play. I told him he could just put him in there and walk away as long as Adri wasn't fussing. He said he was just trying to figure him out. Leave it to a man! I laughed and told him to let me know what he comes up with.

He leaves Sunday morning and I hope we will see him out here this summer.

He was supposed to be feeding him his bottle here, but they were both distracted by Robin Hood playing on the DVD player.

Ode to Jacob's Friendly Chops

2009-02-11T22:10:00.003-08:00

Jake insisted I post this picture for all of you to see his 'friendly chops' (as he lovingly calls them) that he had for a day. Thank God it was only a day (I'm definitely not a fan of facial hair), but he was so proud of these and misses them. He's determined to grow them again. (sigh....)

Allison at 2 years

2009-02-11T21:49:00.001-08:00

Allie has changed so much in the last couple weeks it seems... or grown rather. I feel like she is such a big girl now. Today I picked up some blocks for her (we are going to work on the alphabet now that she has her 1-10 down) and she was sitting at her table playing with them and said to me, "Look, I make this mommy!" indicating her tower of blocks. She speaks in full sentences constantly and melts my heart every time I hear here say "mommy". I'm not really sure when she crossed over from the baby that said mama to the little girl that now says mommy.

At her 2 year appointment her pediatrician was pretty impressed with how far along she is developmentally. She says she is on schedule, if not ahead of where she should be, with how well she understands and communicates. She is 30.5 lbs and 35".

She gets a kick out of tickling everyone, having the kitties lick her head and her favorite thing to say right now is "Mommy, come here!" which I hear constantly. Her favorite movie has recently switched from Tinkerbell to The Jungle Book and she loves frogs. According to her, we have a pink frog residing somewhere in our house.... not sure where she got that from, but she refers to it quite often. She is very helpful when it comes to getting me anything for Adrian and hates to have to put away her toys (we are working on that one). She loves going to Holly and Gavin's house once a week to play (provided I assure her I will be going with her) and behaves so beautifully there I can't help but be a little proud of the both of us (me for training her and her for listening).

I

Adri

2009-02-11T17:05:00.000-08:00

Adrian has started eating solids the last couple weeks, but more consistently this last week. Today he actually devoured the whole container of Squash (Allie loved squash as well) plus some oatmeal cereal. I have a feeling he's going to be my big eater, though that could just be because of his size. I am as excited with him as I was with Allie to introduce new foods and see how he likes them. I'm always impatient for the three days after you first introduce something new to pass so we can try something else.

Sadly, he hasn't been sleeping well (written as he's in the next room screaming his protest at bedtime). Last night he woke up 2 hours after he'd eaten and cried for 1.5. I know that doesn't sound long, but in the middle of the night to hear your child screaming right next to you is shear torture. I am at a loss of what else to do. Clearly nothing else I've tried has worked. He still continues to wake up many times during the night not hungry. I'm told to just view it as him really liking my company.

He can almost sit up entirely on his own now. I still have to be right there in case he leans backwards but otherwise, he's doing pretty good.

Sweet Potatoes... I'm pretty sure this being the first time he had them, I had more on his face then he kept in his mouth. The second time was much more successful.

Adrian 5 months

2009-01-30T12:46:00.001-08:00

Allison

2009-01-30T12:46:00.000-08:00

Allison's Birthday

2009-01-30T10:50:00.000-08:00

Allison is 2!!! We had a great birthday party for her with friends and family. We started with dinner at Red Robin, where she was the center of attention and had the servers sing her a very loud, clapping Happy Birthday song. Then we went back to our house for cake and ice cream and of course... present opening. She completely understands opening presents now and has been asking every day for the last couple weeks if she can open her presents. (Good thing Christmas and Birthdays are done for a while so she can stop thinking she's the center of the universe... which of course she is!)

She got a lot of girl, girl gifts, some great books, legos (bet you can guess from whom), clothes and some Disney movies. We all had a great time and enjoyed celebrating her! Thanks everyone for coming and participating. It meant a lot!

We Have Teeth!

2009-01-21T13:16:00.000-08:00

This month we've had some pretty fussy kiddos. And rightly so, since both are working on teeth. Allie just had all four of her 2 year molars break through over the last week and Adrian just had his first tooth (bottom right) break through today!

More pics

2009-01-19T08:30:00.000-08:00

My Surprise Birthday Bash!

2009-01-18T19:11:00.000-08:00

Happy 30th Birthday to me! Last night, Jake took me to what I thought was my birthday date dinner with just the two of us. But really, the sneaky guy was taking me to a surprise party planned by my best friend and others (though I'm not really sure exactly all who were involved in the planning).

I was originally scheduled to have a girls night with 4 friends at Spazzo (they have the best Sangria in the World!) Saturday night, which I was really, really looking forward to. Then, Jake told me he canceled that night because he was taking me to the Melting Pot and that was the only time they had the "special room" available. So, I swallowed a bit of disappointment (because I was really excited about Spazzo) but was happy he took the time to plan this special night out.

So we left the kids in good hands (Sassy was up for the weekend and was staying the night so we didn't have to hurry back) and made a few stops on the way to the restaurant. We got the wonderful watch Jake bought me for my birthday resized and then stopped to look at some skis he as considering buying. Apparently, these stops were both stall tactics to allow everyone time to get to the restaurant before our arrival.

We got to the melting pot a couple minutes early and waited as they readied our table... or rather as they warned everyone of our arrival. We followed the host to this "special room" and as we started to walk through the doorway I paused in confusion. There were a bunch of people already seated. I figured if I HAD to change my plans for this special room, it should at least be empty. I assumed the guy had made a mistake until I saw my friend Justin's face smiling at me. Then followed the big SURPRISE shouted from the 9 people seated at our table. You can see the shock written all over my face in the very first picture taken. I honestly can say I've never been more surprised or please to have my plans changed for me.

We had a great time with everyone over the next 3 hours (that is actually how long the 4 course fondue meal takes) and shared lots of good conversation and laughs. From there, we met some other friends at an upscale pool hall but didn't stay because it was crowded and noisy. So we all drove a couple blocks to a friends office where they had video games and a big screen TV. We all spent a couple hours there playing games and chatting. It was a great end to a really great evening.

Thanks everyone who participated! It was honestly my best birthday ever and an awesome way to welcome my 30's!

Sassy and Pappy Christmas

2009-01-16T08:31:00.000-08:00

Lori and Marlin finally made it up here (no more horrible weather blocking them in) to do Christmas with the kids. Unfortunately, a couple pictures into it, my camera battery died. So here are the pictures I did get.

Just a little bit of vanity

2009-01-09T10:02:00.000-08:00

Some pictures Laura took of me while she was here. I'll post our family picture once she send it to me.

Tot Spot Cafe

2009-01-09T08:58:00.000-08:00

I had the best day with the kids yesterday, in spite of the no sleeping thing. I was sure the day was going to be horrible when Allie came into our room at 5:30am, after I had been up with Adrian all night. I was pleasantly surprised however!

We were meeting a couple of the ladies from my MOPS tables and their little ones at this cafe/kids play place in Woodinville at 10:00am and I was sure Allie was going to have already melted down a dozen times by then from lack of sleep. She didn't however, and we got out of the house at 9:45am with no problems whatsoever.

We spent a lovely 2 hours at this place called Tot Spot Cafe. What a great idea it is! Basically it's a Coffee shop with a kids play area inside with all kinds of toys. The play area has a low wall (so the little ones can't get out without help) with couches inside and is surrounded by tables for the mom's to drink coffee, work on their computer (free WiFi) or do whatever they want while the kids play. The also have several girls working there who will keep an eye and and entertain your kids while you're doing your thing. Allie who is generally very clingy around strangers took right to the workers and basically ignored me for the next 2 hours while she played princess dress up, baby doll and bounced balls around. So I got to visit with my friends while she played.

I finally talked to the ladies about doing a play group outside of MOPS. They are totally interested, which I'm very excited about. I don't know if we are going to start it soon, or wait until MOPS breaks for the summer, but it's a start. Summer will be nice because we can meet at parks as well as each other's houses.

Anyway, to finish my surprisingly good day... The kids and I made it home around 12:30 at which time Allie went straight to bed for 2.5 hours and Adrian napped a little too, allowing me about 30 minutes of sleep (gotta take what you can get!) I don't think Allie and I had one single fight the entire day. That's pretty amazing since she's been miss emotional lately! Jake went climbing for a couple hours, which was good for him too.

The Walking Zombie

2009-01-09T08:33:00.000-08:00

My nights have been sadly lacking in sleep lately. Last night was pretty typical (lately anyway). It went something like this:

11:00pm Fall asleep about 11pm (I was actually in bed and exhausted much early but for some reason couldn't seem to get to sleep quickly) And I really shouldn't complain too much because Adrian was mostly asleep by 10pm with just a little case of the wiggles. But of course I can complain. This is my blog after all!

12:55am Adrian wakes up, feed and change him then pump (actually I woke Jake up for the changing part because I was pumping... he wasn't very happy with me for waking him from a dead sleep. Oh, so sorry! I must have mistaken you for the father!)

3:15am Adrian wakes up again (You've got to be kidding me!!!) Feed him 6oz

5:55am Adrian awake AGAIN (This is ridiculous!!!!!!) change diaper, feed 3oz, pump all in a state of half zombie

6:3ish Jake's alarm goes off and he turns all the lights on looking for his black belt. If I could have found it I'd have potentially beat him with it.

7:00am Adrian is already squirming for whatever reason. I can't remember what I did with him except I did have Jake put him in bed next to me.

8:00am Allie mercifully slept in this morning... yesterday she was in our room by 5:30am. I wanted to cry!

What this timeline sadly doesn't include is how long I was up each time. If I have to change diaper, feed Adrian AND pump it's a minimum of 45 minutes. So sad!

More Cute Kiddos

2009-01-08T20:43:00.000-08:00

First Solids

2009-01-08T20:38:00.001-08:00

As Adrian has turned 4 months and watches us intently as we eat, it was time to try the rice cereal. Like Allie, he wasn't really ready for it. He just spit every bit of it back out and made the cutest gross faces every time I put it back in. Guess I'll try again in another few weeks.

Messy Faces

2009-01-08T20:33:00.000-08:00

Why do we, as parents, love to take pictures of our messy kid's faces? They are just so cute (even though we do have to do the cleanup afterwords)!

My Cute Kiddos

2009-01-08T20:31:00.001-08:00

Just an update

2009-01-06T18:23:00.000-08:00

I don't have much to post lately. Seems like everything has finally slowed down after the holidays. We are all doing great though.

Jake just bought a seasons pass to Snoqualmie and is trying to get in time twice a week (once at night during the week and one day on the weekend) to get up there. He is generally a snow boarder, but tried out skiing last week with our friend Justin and is now hooked. Great... just what we needed... another sport! (Can you just feel the sarcasm?)

Adrian is still growing like a weed and is almost too heavy to carry in his car seat (which he is almost to big for anyway). I think he is working on teeth as well. He's been waking up a lot at night sadly, and not napping well during the day either. Unfortunately for me, that means I'm getting very little sleep at night too and I think both kids have some pact to have one of them awake at all times during the day so I don't get to take a nap to help. So sad for me! Eventually, I'll crack and cry over absolutely nothing (which is what I do when I'm ridiculously tired), at which time Jake will hopefully send me to bed early so I can sleep.

Allie is using complete sentences and can (most of the time on request) count to ten. 1 and 7 seem to be her problem numbers, but if you get her past those, she does great! She also heard me say to Adrian (for dropping his toy) Uh-oh, spaghettio!... not sure where I got that, but she got such a kick out of it she hasn't stopped saying it all day. She also constantly says "Oh ya mama!" with her hand in the thumbs up position which she learned from Aunt Laura (or Yallo as she wants to be called). I think we do it about 50 times a day and surprisingly enough, it never gets tired (at least so far).

Jake's parents will hopefully be coming this weekend (Friday and Saturday) so we can do our Christmas with them. We missed them this year due to the snow which made travel virtually impossible.

That's about it for now!

Looking Back at 2008

2009-01-05T13:55:00.000-08:00

As we say goodbye to an old year and welcome a new one, I find myself looking back at 2008 and all that has transpired. Most people put this in a newsletter and send it out with their Christmas cards. So, I guess this is in a way my newsletter.

Some people have amazing memories (or good record keeping skills) and are able to tell you month by month what happened in their lives that year. That is not me. I'm not sure if it is due to aging (I'll be 30 this month... Ahhhhhh) or running around like a crazy lady keeping track of and caring for three people besides myself, but somehow I no longer seem to remember everything. So, here's the best I can do.

JANUARY 2008:

We celebrated Allison's 1st birthday on January 28th with her Sassy and Pappy in Oregon. Both Jake and I had such a hard time believing our baby was 1!!! It has been so amazing watching her grow into the little bundle of dynamite she is and seeing her personality come alive. She seems to pick up and learn new things everyday!

I had my first ultrasound and saw Adrian as a 7 week gummy bear looking little guy. If you've never seen an ultrasound at this stage trust me... looks just like a gummy bear! As 2007 began on a high note for me with the birth of my daughter Allison, it also ended on a high note when I found out around Christmas time I was pregnant with my Adrian. After having my second miscarriage shortly before Thanksgiving 2007, nothing could have made me happier. So, starting out 2008 with a baby in my belly, I knew it would be a crazy but wonderful year for us.

FEBRUARY:

This month began a full year of my family coming in waves to visit. Mike was first, staying with us for a week. Allie still hasn't stopped asking where 'Michael go?' She absolutely adores him! He spent a lot of time pushing her around in a laundry basket, making her squeal with delight.

MARCH:

My sister BethelLee moved back to Seattle (staying with us for a couple of months) after a 7 year absence. It has been so wonderful having an her around and very active in the kids lives. Allie loves when Titi (her nickname for BethelLee) comes over and they fly and play together for hours. She even asked today if "Titi come over?"

Made it to my second trimester with Adrian! This was a huge relief to me since I lost the last one in week 11.

APRIL:

Jake and I celebrated our 4th Anniversary. I’d add more here, but can’t even remember what we did.

Katie and Ryan took a trip to India to scope out the lay of the land as they were planning on moving there (as missionaries) just after I had Adrian. This was really hard to deal with because it made it their upcoming departure a reality.

MAY:

Jake, Allie and I took a family vacation to Hawaii for 8 days. Allie was 15 months old and I was already 5 months pregnant with Adrian. Not a good mix for that kind of vacation, but we did have a good time regardless of our complaining.

Jake took a mountain bike riding trip with Mr. Mockli Sir (Jake’s nickname for Chris and the only way I hear his name in my head) to Moab for 5 days (and only tried to kill himself twice). I stayed home with Allie.

JUNE:

Amber, Beth and I spent a weekend in Portland to celebrate Amber’s graduation from Western. This was the longest I was every away from Allie, and Jake finally experienced a weekend with just the two of them. Of course she was an angel which both relieved and annoyed me. You’d have to be a stay at home mom to truly understand this I think.

We resigned our lease with our current apartment for another year. I definitely didn’t think we’d be here this long (up until this point I literally hadn’t even put out any pictures because I didn’t want to have to take them down, patch holes and repack them if we were going to buy a house right away). It hasn’t been by any means a terrible place to live, but I don’t think we’ll sign here again. At this point, we’ve pretty much given up any near future plans to buy a house, but we will look to rent one when the lease here is up.

JULY:

This month was a hard one in my pregnancy with Adrian. We spent several long sessions in the hospital’s version of the pregnancy emergency room for monitoring due to an irregular heartbeat of Adrian’s and then the next day preterm contractions for me.

We found out I had gestational diabetes and kept a close watch on the both of us the rest of the pregnancy. On the positive side, due to the diabetic diet, I gained very little weight during the pregnancy and within 2 months of having Adrian, I lost all the baby weight, plus another 20+ lbs.

Jake’s Grandma Theresa was in town the end of the month and it was really good to be able to visit with her.

My good friend Trina along with Amber and Beth threw me a baby shower. It was a lot of fun and I was so glad to finally get all the last minute stuff ready for Adrian’s arrival.

AUGUST:

We spent a lot of time with Katie, Ryan, Taylor and Logan which we just loved! Allie had such a blast with them around. It was sweet to see the kids bonding and sad knowing when they left, Allie would have little to no memory of this time or them.

Mishael, Mike and Laura came to visit for a week, spending half with us and camping on the ocean the other half. Unfortunately do to school starting for both the girls, they missed Adrian's birth by a couple of days.

Adrian was born by c-section August 27th at 8lbs 1oz. I honestly didn’t remember my recovery from the first c-section being as hard as it was the second time, but jake assures me it was. I think I just had an unrealistic expectations of being able to jump up and go right afterwards. Plus, maybe it was harder too having Allie around and not being able to do much with her.

Allie spent a week plus with Sassy and Pappy surrounding Adrian’s birth. She had so much fun feeding kitties, playing in the garden and following Pappy everywhere he went. I however missed her so much, Jake and I took Adrian down there soon after he was born to spend some time with them and bring Allie home.

SEPTEMBER:

Jake and I tried to adjust to no sleep once again (we still aren’t used to it).
The Vars departed to their new home in India. Allie still talks about Taylor (taytay as she calls her but already doesn’t remember Logan’s name).

Mom, Aunt Jackie and Faith came to visit when Adrian was about 3-4 weeks old. I felt pretty bad still from the c-section coupled with the no sleeping thing and probably wasn’t very good company. But I enjoyed having them around none the less.

Started the MOPS program at Evergreen Community Church. I love it! We have a lot of fun with the crafts, and I enjoy talking and sharing child raising experiences with the ladies at my table. (We are even getting together outside of MOPS this week at the tot spot. I’m hoping to find some good mommy friends through it.)

OCTOBER:

Had a radio-active iodine test due to a nodule my doctor found on my thyroid. Definitely wasn’t thrilled 1) to have one more thing to worry about and 2) more doctor visits! But I was told that the results came out normal and there was nothing to be concerned about and we would just keep an eye on it.

Was still struggling with the diabetes, which I expected to go away right after Adrian was born. Little did I know it takes a while for your body to begin working again after the trauma… duh!

My dad and Mishael came for a visit towards the end of the month. It was short, but sweet. Watching dad hold his first grandson was something truly special!

NOVEMBER:

The kids and I spent a week at Camp Sassapap (Lori and Marlin’s in Portland). The help was lovely and Allie had so much fun with the grandparents.

Had a seizure due to low bloodsugar (was eating still like a diabetic because I thought I was one) and got a ride in an ambulance (my very first and hopefully last time) for the record, a very expensive way to get to the emergency room. I went to the doctor the next week and had my blood tested and low and behold… my levels were normal. (I guess I am still supposed to consider myself diabetic and will go for more testing after I’m done nursing Adrian).

Spent Thanksgiving with Jake’s parents (is it confusing that we have so many different names for them Just to clarify for those of you who don’t know, Lori and Marlin, Jake’s parents, Sassy and Pappy and Camp Sassapap are all the same people) My sister, brother and a friend joined us and we had a great time. Sadly, it wasn’t the same without Katie, Ryan and the kiddos far away in India.

DECEMBER:

Jake and I spent a weekend in Seattle. Two whole nights without the kiddos! It was lovely to spend quality time with him and not have to worry about Allie and Adri as Jake’s parents were up for the weekend watching them at our place. We did a whole lot of walking (the weather surprisingly cooperated) around our city, enjoyed sleeping in (sadly I still had to pump) and watched a lot of tv… something we always do at hotels because we don’t have it here. Kind of silly huh?

Laura came for a little over two weeks over Christmas on her break from school. I absolutely LOVED having her. She was so helpful with the kids and we had lots of visiting time. She also took some wonderful pictures of the kiddos and myself as well as a family shot (I’m still waiting to see). I’m pretty excited she will be coming back for the whole summer as she’s doing an internship at a company in Bellevue.

We celebrated Christmas with Beth, Laura and Dan which was fun. Unfortunately Lori and Marlin were unable to make it up here due to the snow, so we still have Christmas with them to look forward to. Beth even stayed with us (Laura was already here) for a couple of nights which was a blast.

Adrian 4 Months

2008-12-29T13:32:00.000-08:00

I took Adrian for his 4 month checkup today. The little trouper did so well, especially considering they made us wait for 45 minutes and he should have been taking a nap the entire time we were there AND got three shots. After getting a flu shot this year myself (to help protect Adrian a little more this winter, since he is too little to get his own yet) and feeling how much that hurt, I have a deeper appreciation for what these little guys go through getting poked!

Here are his stats:

Height: 27.75"
Weight: 18.1 oz
Head Circ: 17.75"

He has grown 4 lbs and 3" in the last 2 months and has jumped beyond the 95th percentile for all of the above. He is already fully wearing 6-9 month clothes and even his short legs don't fit anymore in his 3-6 month pants (both of my kids have the long body, short legs from their daddy). Dr Wu was pleased with how interactive he is, catching her eye and then smiling huge before looking away... little flirt. He is also incredibly strong holding his head and chest up, rolling both ways (as of yesterday) and sitting up with just a little help. He is so different, personality wise, then his sister. I am enjoying seeing his own little personality come out.

Allie by Laura

2008-12-29T13:30:00.000-08:00

Adri by Laura

2008-12-28T20:05:00.000-08:00

Just a couple pictures of Adri Laura was playing with. She just got her charger for her camera, so I expect you'll be seeings lots of other great pictures soon.

Allie's Bike

2008-12-28T17:13:00.000-08:00

I came across this video the other day and just had to share.

The Kids and Me

2008-12-28T17:03:00.000-08:00

I wanted to give a picture of the kids and me to Jake for Christmas, so we dressed up one day and had my sister Laura take a million pictures hoping to get one good one. Then Beth beautified it for me. Here's the end product. I actually did have one with a better shot of Allie, but loved this look on her face so much we went with it.

Christmas Continued...

2008-12-25T14:32:00.001-08:00

Christmas Day

2008-12-25T12:00:00.000-08:00

This Christmas was so much fun for me (although I'm sad to not be with most of our family) because it meant so much more to Allie. There's something so sweet about seeing Christmas through the eyes of your child.

We started the morning in our typical way, with Allie coming into our room before 7am, dragging her new pillow, 'friend' and Binky along. After laying quietly in bed with us for a while, it was time to open stockings. Stockings have to be one of my most favorite part of Christmas morning, maybe because as a kid growing up, my mom would put ours on our bed in the middle of the night so it was the first thing we saw when we woke up. It also usually held some kind of yummy sweet treat in it we would be digging into before we even left our beds.

So, in holding with that tradition, Allie got to open a few things we put in her stocking. (Baby Cinderella is already missing her glass (plastic) slippers and of course, her dress).

Adrian loves his chew toy Dad!

Jake got a coffee tumbler to take his Chai to work in the mornings (without spilling) and of course M&M's!

Then it was time for a big breakfast with Aunt Laura, Titi and Uncle Dan before opening the rest of the gifts.

Allie wanted to help out by cleaning the dishes with me and mixing the OJ

Adrian's cute Christmas outfit... I just love the pants!

Allie's first present was from her dad. Tinkerbell papasan.

Playing with her Tinkerbell figurines in between opening presents (can you guess our theme this Christmas?)

This is the coolest doll that folds up into a flower (sort of the original Cabbage Patch Doll). My mom made this for us when we were kids (wish I had held on to it!) and I'm so glad she made one for Allie. She has barely put it down since she opened it. She loves it mom!

Allie wearing the purse the doll inside the flower fits into.

Watching Allie open gifts... Adrian looks enthralled (or is that tired?)!

Showing off a necklace Beth made for me

Beth showing her beautiful sweater, winter set and scarf

Christmas Eve

2008-12-24T20:22:00.001-08:00

We let Allie open one gift tonight before bed. I thought Aunt Beth's (Titi) gift to her would be fitting. She gave her a pillow and pj's with Sleeping Beauty on it. Allie was so excited she wanted to go to bed right away so she could use it. So by 7pm (bedtime is 8pm) she was laying on her new pillow in her new pj's in bed. Of course it didn't last long and I let her come back out for a few minutes before 8 so she could get the rest of the wiggles out. We'll see how good of an idea that was.

Adri

2008-12-23T15:16:00.001-08:00

Allison

2008-12-23T13:46:00.000-08:00

Laura

2008-12-23T10:31:00.000-08:00

Our New Toy

2008-12-23T10:29:00.000-08:00

In an effort to stay in shape during the cold winter months (I'm definitely a fair weather cyclist), Jake and I got rollers so we can continue to ride our bikes. You can not believe how squirly this feels! But, it is a challenge to stay balanced while you are riding, which is part of the workout.

Our Mornings

2008-12-23T10:15:00.000-08:00

If you happened into our room between the hours of 6am and 8am (if we are really lucky), this is what you'd see... only I'd be on the other side of Adrian barely able to stay on the bed with no covers because Jake and Allie would have them all on their side. We literally do this EVERY morning in our hopeless effort to try to sleep a little longer. Notice Allie holding Adrian's hand... how cute is that?! (I think she actually may have done it in self-defense because in his sleep he was hitting her in the face and pulling her hair)

High, HIGH Heals

2008-12-23T10:05:00.000-08:00

My sister Laura is visiting for a couple weeks during her school break. These are the shoes she wore on the plane, which she says are very comfortable... uh-hu, right! As soon as Allie found them, she just had to wear them. Can you believe she can actually walk in them? It's pretty impressive! Also, notice the cell phone in her hand which she's had constantly the last several days talking to her friend Matt (our friend we climb with as well as Jake's co-worker). She adores him (or his name at least).

Cutest Kids EVER!

2008-12-23T10:01:00.001-08:00

Finally got my Christmas Card picture... if you are lucky you'll get it before New Years! (He was being held up by the way. Not quite strong enough to hold himself up yet.)

Colored Snowballs

2008-12-23T09:55:00.000-08:00

Jake was very excited for Allie to eat her first colored flavored (sugar-free vanilla) snowballs. Notice the picture of her on the coffee table (over the carpet) with a colored snowball... who's brilliant idea was that?!

She was stained red for about half the day

Just so you know, when red, green and blue melt, they become black...nasty!

Our snow

2008-12-23T09:32:00.000-08:00

Yesterday Allie and I were adventurous and went for a walk in the snow. She had so many layers on and her snowsuit (a size too big) made it almost impossible for her to move, but she had a blast. She just really likes eating the snow which can be a little dangerous in our area with all the dogs. Luckily you can pretty easily spot the gross yellow snow to steer clear of.

Our car... abviously hasn't moved for a while

She just loves her snowballs. After our walk she got to eat it.

"uh-oh!" That's what she says when she sees the snow on her gloves

The is a teacup poodle (weighs less then 2 lbs) out frolicking in the snow. Wonder if Ho-Ho knows he stole his outfit...

My Other Snow Bunny

2008-12-18T19:40:00.001-08:00

It has been so cold here the last week or so, I've bundled both kids up with so many layers any time we venture outdoors until they barely resemble their normal shape. Here's Adrian's sweet outfit! He can barely move in it, but at least he stays warm.

Makeup Artist

2008-12-18T18:52:00.000-08:00

While Allie was in Portland a couple weeks ago with her Sassy, she learned about makeup from watching Lori apply hers. She (Allie) loves putting her 'eyes' on. Yesterday she got into my bathroom where I keep my makeup and thought she'd apply my mascara herself while I was otherwise occupied ... probably with Adrian. Here's the end product:

You can't see it really clearly (sorry, I was holding Adrian trying to feed him while taking the pictures) but she has it on both eyelids and even managed to get some on her eyelashes. She actually didn't get any on her fingers which still baffles me.

Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow!

2008-12-18T18:00:00.000-08:00

Swing Low, Sweet Chariot

2008-12-14T19:20:00.000-08:00

Allison

2008-12-14T18:59:00.000-08:00

Adrian Rolling

2008-12-14T18:51:00.000-08:00

Adrian started rolling this last week! I was actually really shocked because he still seems like such a bobble-head! I really didn't expect him to start rolling for at least another month or so. He goes from his tummy to his back now (did it several times in one tummy session), but has already started teetering when on his back and almost flipping to his tummy.

Allie started about the same time (but was much stronger) going from her back to her tummy, which is the harder way. She wasn't able to go both ways until she was about 4.5 months. It will be interesting to see how long it takes Adri to do both. He is such a tummy time lover, I think he may do it a lot sooner. No more unmonitored couch time for him!

Outside contact finally!!!

2008-12-14T18:39:00.000-08:00

The last several days our internet has been down. Well actually, the wireless account we've been using (but isn't ours) has been down. I have felt so cut off from the outside world it's ridiculous!

I didn't take the kids anywhere all week because Allie was such a cranky pants, we just seemed to move from one tantrum to another. She didn't take her nap two of the days and didn't fall asleep until 10pm one night, making her unreasonable most of the week. Then to compound matters, the internet was down so I couldn't talk to anyone on MSN Instant Messenger. Until now, I haven't understood those moms who expressed the desperate need to have adult interaction after a full day of just them and their children. I realize now it's because I've have been able to chat with everyone using the internet.

I was determined to be strong however, instead of signing up for service again right away (which I couldn't price anyway because of course... no internet). Thankfully, I won't have to see how long I could have lasted. You don't realize how much you depend on something until it is gone.

What a Cute Little Guy

2008-12-08T13:29:00.001-08:00

I am still trying to get a good picture of the kids for a Christmas card. These are so great of Adrian, but since Allie was watching Tinkerbell (her new favorite movie Aunt Beth got her) and wouldn't look at me, I'll just have to keep trying. Maybe in front of the Christmas Tree.

Weekend In Seattle

2008-12-08T12:55:00.001-08:00

Jake's company party was Friday night and I look forward to it every year. I especially anticipated it this year because Lori and Marlin were coming up for the weekend to watch the kids, allowing Jake and I to stay two nights in Downtown Seattle.

I bought a pretty party dress for Friday night, complete with shoes and jewelry to match. I honestly could not tell you the last time I wore a dress (or nylons)... it's literally been years! I actually didn't even own one that would fit me anymore since I lost so much weight after Adrian was born. Too bad I didn't take a picture of myself all dressed up. It was such a treat to feel grown up and girly.

The party was fun. I met the knew guy in his department and his wife Kim. They have two boys 6 months older then Allie and Adrian. We got along really well and I hope we can get our kids together later for a play date. Otherwise, the party was a lot of small talk, eating really good appetizers and drinking some really good wine I forgot to get the name of.

We had such a great time all day Saturday walking around Seattle and were really lucky to have such great weather for it. I think we probably walked at least 5 miles which was nice, and did almost nothing. We visited the Seattle Library which I'd never been to (crazy building!), ate at a Mexican restaurant overlooking Harbour Steps and did a little shopping. Every few hours we would go back to the hotel we were staying at so Jake could recuperate (he wasn't feeling well) so I even got in some good reading time.

Then we went to a friends housewarming party for a couple hours. It was nice to see everyone, but I was honestly tired of small talk after Jake's company party. I was happy to see the kids Sunday about noon when we got home. I loved having time for Jake and I but really missed them a lot too! I think Adrian even grew a bit.

Creepy alley we walked through with a few scary people doing drugs.

Crazy but cool fencing. I think it's supposed to be flowers.

My first Mexican meal (my very favorite food) since I was diabetic while pregnant with Adrian.

Christmas Tree

2008-12-08T12:48:00.000-08:00

Jake's mom is lending us her fake tree this year to put up here since we will be having everyone at our place this year. I don't have anything for a normal size tree (since our's is only 3 feet, and I'd rather purchase decorations and all that jazz on the off season... I like to think of it as frugal, not cheap).

So this weekend while Jake and I were in Seattle, Allie and Sassy put it up with a few decorations and Allie and I put more on yesterday when we got back. Allie really likes putting all the ornaments on one branch which usually then all fall off due to the weight. I sneakily put them on other branches while she isn't looking and then she can pile more on her favored branches. So far she either doesn't notice they are missing, or doesn't care. She has actually been really good at not pulling decorations off once they are on either which surprises me. There are little bells on the lower branches though just in case she starts pulling stuff off so I'll know.

I realize too that I really don't enjoy the whole decorating part as much as I enjoy it all being done and then seeing it. Kind of like I don't really enjoy making the cookies so much as eating them afterwards.

I'll post some pictures of Allie in front of the tree with her Christmas dress on as soon as she wakes up (hopefully not as cranky as she was when she went to bed.)

Bumbo Seat

2008-12-03T11:59:00.000-08:00

This is a pretty fun comparison. The first and second pictures are Allie in her Bumbo taken in May of 07 (so she's 3+ months). The last one is taken today (Dec of 08) at 22+ months. She still fits in her Bumbo and I'd bet her legs are the same circumference... they just grew a lot longer.

Allison

2008-12-03T11:52:00.000-08:00

For a while now, when you ask Allie to smile she just closes her eyes at you (you might have noticed that in a few of her pictures). I figured out though today, if I ask her to go Eeeeee like when we brush her front teeth, I actually get a smile out of her. But then of course she has to do the other part of brushing, and that is Ahhhhh (brushing back teeth).

Adrian

2008-12-03T10:50:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving Pictures

2008-12-03T08:35:00.000-08:00

Dancing with Sassy and Pappy

I know it doesn't look like it, but she really did enjoy her ice cream

One of the few pictures I got of Beth. Not sure why, she was around the whole time!

Thanksgiving Dinner

The cooks... or at least the ones with aprons on

This picture totally cracks me up. My goal this weekend was to get one good picture of our whole family for a Christmas card. This is as good as it gets!

Justin was amazing with the kids. Guess he's had lots of practice with his niece and nephews

Daddy painting Allie's nails. It was so cute! He's not afraid.

Sisters

Showing off the button ring Titi made her

Our Thanksgiving

2008-12-03T08:05:00.000-08:00

My favorite week of the entire year has come and gone leading up to my favorite month of the year... mostly because I'm still dazzled by all the pretty lights. I love Christmas time because of all the family time we get... ok, and the yummy treats as well! In a way it forces us to slow down and spend some much needed quality time with the people we love.

We spent our Thanksgiving in Portland with Jake's parents. This year my sister Beth, brother Dan and our friend Justin joined us. It was pretty quiet and low key since we were all afraid to leave the house for fear of the shopping crazies. I hear those people can be brutal. Beth and I did make it to Fred Meyer Friday morning (why do they call it Black Friday btw?) and I was absolutely shocked at how much stuff people bought and were cramming into their cars. Either they were shopping the deals to stock up for the whole year or they go WAY overboard for Christmas!

Anyway, the kids had a blast with so many people playing with them! I think Dan might just be Allie's new favorite person. He played with her for hours one day jumping on a mattress, giving pony rides and flying her through the house. She was in a state of constant giggles. It was precious! And Adrian found his laugher. I wish I got a video of the first couple that burst out, but of course he was almost done by the time I got the camera.

Tuesday, Novermber 25th

2008-11-25T12:01:00.000-08:00

Hi Taylor!

2008-11-25T09:48:00.000-08:00

Things I'm Thankful For

2008-11-25T09:18:00.000-08:00

As the Thanksgiving Holiday is fast approaching, we start to consider the things in our life that we are really thankful for. It is sad for me that we are either too busy or too focused on the now to do this more often.

Here is my Thanks list so far (not necessarily in order of importance):

My family first and foremost. My husband who goes to work for us everyday without complaining (or mostly ;)) so that I can stay home with the kids. That he loves sharing his sports with me. My two beautiful children that I have the privilege to watch grow up more every day. What a blessing they are too me! Usually one or both has me wanting to pull out my hair at some point during the day, but they sure do keep it interesting!

My MOPS group who are always encouraging us to recognize our value (we had a speaker on that subject just this last week). I sometimes get caught up in the faulty idea that since I'm not out earning a living, I am not as valuable as the other women I know who are either Partners or Owners of their companies. But, what I forget is that I am raising up the next generation of leaders! And besides that, I have immeasurable value just being me and it's not based on anything more then just who I am.

My friends and family that keep me sane through their encouragement and often their helping with the kids. Beth especially, who visits and babysit for us once a week. I love it that my sister is developing strong bonds with her niece and nephew, and I don't have to worry about how they are doing when Jake and I are out together.

My great relationship with my Mother-In-Law. How many people dread the holidays because they have to spend it with the In-Laws? I absolutely love this time of year because it is another excuse to be around Jake's incredible family. Marlin is an absolute sweetheart and reminds me a lot of my dad. Cody, his brother, always keeps me laughing and entertained. And I have a great relationship with his mom Lori whom I love! She is always there for us with non-judgemental advice if we need/want it and she is 100% devoted to her grandchildren! I couldn't ask for more. Sadly, Katie, Ryan, Taylor and Logan won't be there this holiday as they've moved to India, but we'll be thinking of them!

Starbucks. Ok, now don't laugh. I love my Starbucks break! Somehow I get a warm cup of whatever I feel like on the few occasions now we splurge and I instantly feel myself relax. Jake and I have been really trying to crack down on our budget and we've had to cut back a lot on this simple pleasure. But I was so excited yesterday when my friend Ben, who asked me to write a letter of recommendation for him, gave me a $25 Starbucks card as thanks. It meant a lot to me and came at just the right time! Thanks Ben!!! Now Jake and I get to enjoy some yummy goodness on our way to and from Oregon this week (we were just about out of our allowance for the month and were going to have to chose one way or the other). Also, once a week I go sit down at Starbucks and read for an hour or so to get some ME time. It's lovely!

I think that's going to have to suffice for now because Allie has been playing tea in her high-chair for the last hour and is one soaking wet little girl. I can actually hear her behind me slapping the tray and splashing the water that didn't make it in her little teacup, all over the place. Little Monkey!