The VanderSpek Family

AYSO

2010-09-16T10:35:00.001-07:00

Kaelyn's first soccer game was on Saturday.
She woke up so excited to play.
We got there and met up with her team.
They lined up to stretch.
They practiced throwing the ball in.

They practiced scoring goals.

They were ready to play.She didn't score any goals this time, but hopefully this Saturday she will.

GO TIGERS!!

2010-09-09T09:44:00.000-07:00

This was a week of firsts in our house.

This was the first week since I became a stay at home mom, that I didn't use my kids as my alarm clock. I actually had to get up and get going before the kids woke up. And then get all 3 kids up, dressed, fed and out of the house before 8am. Lets just say I enjoyed sleeping in till 7 or sometimes 7:30.

Kaelyn had her first day of Jr. K this week. She was so excited.

On the way home she could not stop talking about what she did. And she couldn't wait to go back. She even wanted to sleep in her school uniform. Too cute!!

Kaelyn will also have her first soccer game on Saturday. GO TIGERS!!! (I will post after the game!)

Jack had his first day of Preschool this week too! He is going to the same place we took Kaelyn last year and could of cared less about leaving me. He ran into the playground and didn't look back. See ya later mom! I had to take him away from playing just so I could get a picture.

He is definitely the tallest kid in his class. And is in one of the youngest too!

Sadie is starting solid food this week too. She has tried sweet potatoes and bananas. I am not sure she really likes either of them yet. (and of course I don't have a single picture to document it yet...note to self- TAKE PICTURES!!) But she is very interested in the food that her big brother and sister are eating. Grabbing at their plates and glasses on the table. She is going to be 6 months in a few days! I can't believe it.

Things are definitely changing in our house. And it is only going to get more busy and exciting as they get older!

Z-O-O

2010-07-23T08:48:00.001-07:00

Yesterday, my sister and I decided to take advantage of the overcast day and head to the Santa Ana zoo.
Of course, I thought my camera battery was fully charged. I was wrong. But my sis was on top of it. Here are some of her pictures from the day. When I remember to charge my battery, maybe I will download the few that I took.

Kaelyn's 1st date

2010-07-17T13:18:00.000-07:00

I think it is really important for Kaelyn and Sadie to have a special relationship with their daddy. It is not only important for their self esteem, but also to help them realize when the get older (much, much older) what type of boy or man they should be with. And how a man should treat a woman. The importance of respect, love and communication in a relationship.

I had some family friends from back home do this with their daughters and I thought what a great idea.
And so a new tradition has started. Daddy Date night. Kaelyn (and eventually Sadie) will get all dressed up once a month and go on a special date with Daddy. They will get to choose where they go to dinner and any extra special activity they will do.

Kaelyn was so excited to go. She picked out a very special dress, which she told me was "Daddy's favorite." And yes it is her Christmas dress. And she even had to put on jewelry. Today's choice a lei!! Perfect.
The Restaurant: Panda Express
The Food: Chinese noodles, vegetables, pink lemonade, fortune cookie and a chocolate chip cookie.
Special activity: Shopping at Ross, where she picked out a new dress and a shirt for Jack. (got to love my little shopper)

They both had so much fun!

And yes, Jack will get to do "Boys night out" with Daddy once a month too!!

Getting things rolling

2010-07-06T09:59:00.001-07:00

4 months old and Sadie is already rolling over. She seems to be doing everything a little quicker than my other two. I think she just wants to keep up.

She will even put her legs under her, butt in the air and push herself forward a little.
It's incredible! She is definitely on the move. I will lay her down on her play-mat and moments later she is completely in a different spot or on her belly. She is not only rolling from back to front, but on occasion will roll from her stomach to her back. It is amazing. She is everywhere. It won't be long and she will be crawling after the other two.

Sleep!! I think I am getting too much sleep. I didn't think it was possible. But the longer she sleeps at night, the more tired I am in the morning. She is giving me 7 to sometimes 9 hour stretches of sleep. It is so amazing! I just wish my body would get used to it so I wouldn't be so tired in the morning. Thank goodness for coffee!!!

Kaelyn and Jack are just so sweet with Sadie. And Sadie can't get enough of her brother and sister. Her face just lights up when she sees them or they play with her. It just melts my heart!

ARRR! It's a Pirate Birthday!

2010-06-14T12:27:00.000-07:00

The birthday boy!

Pirate Boat

Pirates

Pirate Braden

Pirate Sadie

Kaelyn's butterfly fairy dress that she had to wear to Jack's party!

There was plenty of pirate sword fighting.

Sadie didn't want to miss out on anything.

The pirate cupcakes

The loot.

The rest of the pirates!

3 Months

2010-06-14T12:11:00.000-07:00

Sadie Baby
Sadie Bug
Miss Sadie
WOW! 3 months! It has gone by so fast.
Here is what you are up to:

You love to sleep in your car seat. But for the last 2 weeks you have been sleeping in your crib in the kids room. You have been a champ. Sleeping for 7 hours before waking for more food.

You love to smile at people. If someone talks to you, your face lights up.

You are almost rolling over. Well you really are, but you make sure that you leave your arm under you so that you can quickly roll back onto your back.

You love your play mat. You seem so happy when I put you on there to play.

You are so loved by your sister and brother. And you adore them. When you are fussy, all you need is one of them to come over to you and once again you are happy.

You are such a joy to our family and I feel so blessed to be your mommy!
I love you Sadie!

Laughing Sadie

2010-05-25T20:53:00.000-07:00

I just can't help but smile and laugh with her!!!

While Daddy was away

2010-05-25T18:40:00.000-07:00

we...

went to a farm with Muah and Papa

and picked peaches and nectarines

and blueberries

and strawberries

i think Jack ate more than he picked!

we got to pet and feed some baby goats

we played in the sprinklers

and swam in their little alligator pool

Kaelyn went and got her first manicure!

and we played with our Sadie Baby!

Protector

2010-04-28T09:26:00.000-07:00

The Little Man of the house.

He is tough. He is strong.

And loves his sister very much.

When we were at the reception last weekend for Grandma Leny's funeral, the camera guy was taking pictures of Sadie who was sleeping in her car seat next to Nana. Jack was with me a few feet away talking to some family. But he kept his eye on this camera man. He kept asking me "what is that guy doing?" and I told him it was okay he was just taking pictures of Sadie. Well he didn't like it. He wanted me to get her and keep her with me. As soon as the guy stepped away, he ran over to the car seat, picked it up and started to carry it over to me. I couldn't believe it. So protective of his little sister. If someone takes her blanket or paci, he is sure to get it back for her. Saying in his ever so sweet but stern voice "This is Sadie Baby's"!
I love it.

Sadie will always have her big brother to look out for her and protect her. Whether she needs it or wants it. Watch out boys, you don't have to worry about her dad, it will be her brother that you need to watch out for!!

One Month Old

2010-04-13T09:15:00.001-07:00

I can't believe how fast one month has flown by. And how much Sadie has already changed in that month.

She reminds us so much of Kaelyn as a baby.
Very alert and wanting attention.
She loves to be moving, whether it is in the swing, car seat or being held, she doesn't want to miss out on a thing.
She is a good sleeper at night so far, (with a few exceptions). I am just hoping in these next few weeks she will learn to sleep even longer. Mommy needs more sleep.
She is loved so much by her Big Sister and Big Brother.

They can't get enough of their "Sadie Baby". They always want to kiss her or hold her or play with her. Which makes it a little difficult when she wants to sleep. (or should I say when I want her to sleep!)

We love you so much Sadie and are such a blessing to our family! I can't wait to watch you grow up!

Easter

2010-04-13T09:10:00.000-07:00

We had easter at the Birkhauser Ranch this year.
The kids had fun playing in Brian and Candy's huge yard.
But most of their time was spent in this swing.
Or playing ping pong.
Jack really wanted to ride one of Candy and Brian's horses, but was just a little scared when he got up on the horse which frightened the horse and Jack wanted down. I was just proud that he tried. Maybe next time.

The easter bunny even hid eggs for them to find!

Kaelyn and Jack had fun counting their eggs and seeing what candy was inside.

Even Braden and Sadie joined the fun.

We had a great Easter. Just wait till next year when all the kids will be big enough to find eggs. It will be craziness, but I can't wait!

Sadie Lena

2010-03-18T19:59:00.000-07:00

It has already been a week. I can't believe it. A week ago today I became a mother of three.

It all started on Wednesday night when Jack asked me why I was walking like a penguin. By that time my back was in so much pain and I felt like an old women. But I never thought that I was waddling. That made my decision, I wasn't going to wait until Saturday for my induction.
The next day I went to the store and bought Castor Oil. Rich had a doctor that said to put a couple ounces on pizza, so that is what I did. I poured on 2 ounces onto my pizza for lunch. I was expecting to be in the bathroom within a few hours and then start feeling strong contractions. But never that fast. Within an hour or so I was feeling strong contractions. But nothing that I really had to stop what I was doing to breathe through them. By 3:00 everything changed. My contractions were a lot stronger and getting closer together (but I wasn't really timing them) and I wasn't having the nightmare time that I was expecting in the bathroom. What was going on? The contractions got stronger and Rich said we should call my mom and have her come over and get the kids. She showed up around 3:30-4. By that time my contractions were probably 5 minutes apart, but I didn't think that they had been that close for an hour like that should be. But we called the doctor anyway, and she said to head to the hospital.
So my mom took the kids and we headed down to Newport to go to the hospital. On the way down my contractions got so intense. I really didn't think we were going to make it. We were a few miles away and I was worried (so was Rich). He started running red lights so that we could get there. And am I glad that he did. We left our house around 4:30 and got to the hospital around 5:00. They barely hooked my up to the monitors, tried to give me an IV, but I was already dilated to a 6 by the time I showed up. I was in so much pain. Within in minutes I felt like I need to push. I was yelling for drugs but there wasn't time. I was now dilated to an 8 and they called the doctor who was on call to come into the room. As soon as he came it, I was pushing. Her head was out in 1 push and with 2 more pushes she was out.

All I could think was I can't believe that I just gave birth to my little girl with no pain meds. Seriously. And how thankful I was that I listened to my mom and husband and left when I did. I am very thankful that Rich really wanted to get a police escort to the hospital and ran as many red lights as he needed to get me there. I really didn't want to have the baby in the car.
Her nickname was Rocket Baby by the nurses and doctor. It was complete chaos!! And such a blur.

We arrived at the hospital around 5:00pm. And at 5:34pm Sadie Lena entered this world. Perfectly healthy and beautiful!
8lbs 6oz.
21 inches

She is perfect and a really easy baby! She is already a good sleeper and doesn't really cry unless she is really hungry.

Kaelyn and Jack adore her. They are constantly giving her hugs and kisses. It is the cutest thing.

Life of a mom of 3 is going very smoothly! At least so far!

So ready!

2010-03-04T15:09:00.000-08:00

but this little one inside of me not so much. She is taking her sweet little time and enjoying herself inside my ever growing stomach. I had a check up today and was looking forward to more progress, but no. Nothing. Not a single change! I am still dilated at 1 cm and 50% effaced. But I was hoping that after a weekend of a lot of walking around, a little Wii and lots of activity that these minor contractions I was having would produce some change. I knew that they weren't really strong, but a girl can hope right.
I really wanted her to be born on Tuesday March 2nd. Not only because both Kaelyn and Jack were born on the 2nd (easier to remember when I get older), but how cool would it have been to have a 3-2-10 birthday. But NO, she didn't want to make things easy for her mommy when I get old and start to forget things.
My next appointment is on Wednesday, so hopefully she will come before that. But if not, my doctor said she will get me on the calendar for a induction. THANK GOODNESS!! I don't think I could wait anymore than another week. So lets just hope that she wants to come out this weekend so I don't have to wait.
Here is a picture that Kaelyn took of my belly. She wanted to practice taking pictures so that she can take pictures of the new baby! (Kaelyn liked to crop my head out of the pictures, she just wanted the belly).

Projects finished!!

2010-02-22T12:28:00.000-08:00

I did it! I thought this would be a hard project, but really it was easy.
I decided to recover my infant car seat.

Before

After
I traced all the pieces of the original car seat cover. Then using the new girly fabric, I traced the new pieces out, sewed them together. Then sewed a piece of elastic around the edges to help make it stay in place. The original cover is still underneath giving it the extra padding. I loved how it turned out and can't wait for this new little girl to be in it. I still have to make the shade cover, but I will get to that.

I also made these two dresses.

If I make this one again, I would use thinner ribbon. The bows on the shoulders are a little on the big side, but it is still cute.

Then I made these onsies and burp clothes for my cousin-in-law. Super cute and easy.

Off to the next projects. Whatever they may be.

Baby Update

2010-01-08T09:24:00.000-08:00

I haven't posted about the baby since we first found out that we were pregnant and I was so super sick. So I figured it was about time considering I am already 31 weeks along and this baby will be out soon.
I was feeling very tired and having a hard time catching my breathe. But I assumed it was just that fact that I was pregnant and had two kids to run after. But after my latest blood test the doctors found out that I was a little anemic. I started taking extra iron pills along with my prenatal pills and it has helped. So other than being huge and already very uncomfortable I am great and the baby is great. I had my check up yesterday and the baby (or my uterus) is measuring correctly and the heart rate is great! The only concern was my weight. And my doctor told me so politely "looks like you enjoyed the holidays!" I guess since my last checkup I gained some weight. A little more than she had anticipated. Okay 10 pounds in 5 weeks is a lot. I might have indulged in a few extra helpings of homemade pies and sweets, but I am pregnant and allowed too! Right! She wants me to try to only gain about a pound a week from here on out. Like I can control that. Its not like I can go on a diet or anything. Gaining weight is part of being pregnant. I guess she is just concerned that I will have a big baby.
If this baby is a girl, maybe she will come early like Kaelyn and then I don't have to worry about it. As long as she is healthy. But I have a feeling that is not going to happen. As for an induction like I had for Jack, that is out of the questions. (Being able to plan for someone to watch Kaelyn was the only reason for the induction) I had to go back to the doctor who delivered Kaelyn. (Jack's doctor doesn't deliver babies anymore) And because I had a false induction with Jack (stubborn little boy) she will not induce me unless I am at least dilated to 2cm. COME ON! That can take forever. So this could be the first pregnancy that I actually have to time my contractions! I am kind of excited about that. I never got to do that with Kaelyn or Jack. So it could be like I am having a baby for the first time.
However or whenever this baby is ready to come out I just pray that she (or he, there aren't 100% sure) is healthy!

So because I feel like I need to post a picture of me actually being pregnant and so I can remember how big I was with still so long to go, here is a picture. It is from last week, when Cory and Jennifer came over. Jen is due in about a week (hopefully sooner so she isn't so uncomfortable anymore) and I still have 7 more weeks to go.!!

Can you tell we are so thrilled to have our picture taken!!

Sewing projects to come

2009-12-23T09:20:00.000-08:00

I found some really cool and hopefully easy little projects I am going to try as soon as I get the sewing machine from my mom.

I looked on the web and found a couple of really cool sites with tutorials to follow to make things.
Like...this adorable dress I found at this site. KoJoDesigns

and OHSOHAPPYTOGETHER
who has so many cute girly ideas and tutorials.

and Cally-Cruze
for these
and
Treyandlucy for this cute and easy dress
and for this easy tutu

and this guitar onesie I am going to make for a friend who is having a boy due the same day I am.

I can't wait to try to make these. As soon as I do I will post pictures. It will give me something to do during naptime before this new little one comes.

All things girly

2009-12-21T11:32:00.000-08:00

I have been trying to be a little more creative, especially when it comes to all things girly. Kaelyn is obsessed with headbands, clips, and bows. And whatever the older sister is into, the little one is sure to follow. So I went to Michael's and bought some flowers.

And then bought some plain colored headbands from Target.

And with a few simple stiches....headbands!

Kaelyn of course wanted to try the pink one first.

I found some really simple dress ideas to make for either Kaelyn or the new baby. Or maybe both. Since I don't have a lot of Kaelyn's old girl clothes, I thought that maybe I could make a few cute outfits. We will just have to wait and see.

NOOOO Santa!

2009-12-14T07:58:00.001-08:00

This is becoming a tradition with our family and our neighbors the Bivens. We take the kids to the Westminster Mall to see santa. Last year both kids were scared. Kaelyn wasn't sure if she should cry or smile for the camera and Jack just wanted to get away from this strange man he was sitting on.

And this year not much has changed.
You can't tell by the picture, but Kaelyn was actually happy to be seeing Santa and tell him what she wanted for Christmas. Jack...not so much!!

Can't wait till next year and hopefully more crying pictures of the kids with Santa.

Preschool Christmas

2009-12-05T15:09:00.000-08:00

Today we had Kaelyn's preschool Christmas program and she wasn't really in the mood to sing. Each class got to go up on stage and sing their songs. Peyton (kaelyn's cousin) got on stage first and sang. She even danced a little. (video will be up on Sally's blog shortly I'm sure) But Kaelyn just stood there the whole time her class sang.

I would of posted video, but really she just stood there like that the whole time. Not a sound, not a move the whole time.
But at least she looked cute doing it!!

When she came back, I asked her why she didn't sing with her friends in her class. And she said that her best friend Jayla wasn't standing next to her and it made her sad. But we saw Jayla walk by so that made her happy.

And we even got some very cute pictures of the 3 girls. (Peyton, Mia and Kaelyn)

In the mood for some soup?

2009-12-01T14:51:00.000-08:00

With the whole family not feeling so good and the somewhat cold weather we are having I decided to make some home made soup. I remember growing up my mom always making us soup and I loved it. But I really didn't have the energy to spend standing in front of the stove cooking it. So I found this recipe for Loaded Baked Potato Soup that you make in the crock pot. Got to love easy crock pot recipes!! So here it is.

Loaded Baked Potato Soup
serves 6

6 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2" cubes
1 large onion
1 quart chicken broth
3 cloves garlic, minced or chopped
1/4 cup butter
2 1/2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon pepper

1 cup cream or half n half
2 cup cheddar cheese
3 tablespoons chopped chives
1 cup sour cream (optional)
1/4 cup bacon, fried and crumbled

Combine the first 7 ingredients into a large crockpot and cook for 4 hours on high or 8 hours on low
Mash the mixture until potatoes are coarsely chopped and soup in slightly thickened. Stir in cream, cheese, bacon and chives.

Top with sour cream (optional) and sprinkle with more cheese.

It is super easy and very good.

We've been hit..

2009-12-01T10:27:00.000-08:00

with the cold or flu bug.
A few weeks ago Jack and Kaelyn had a little cold and fever, so we spent the whole day in our pjs and watched movies. It didn't last very long and they were better. But then it came back. This time Rich caught it. And it wasn't a cold. I am not sure if it is the flu or food poisoning, but it is not good. We went out to dinner with Rich's family to Buca Di Beppo and he is the only one that woke up in the middle of the night with a date with the toilet. I have never seen him that sick. I felt so bad and there was nothing I could do to make him feel better. Rich was in bed all day yesterday and still is not feeling 100% today.
Jack is now starting to show signs of being sick. He has been very congested which is making him cough and occasionally throw up. But has energy and is playing. So I am not sure what is up with him.

I, on the other hand, am feeling a little sick and tired. I have a cold and as you know when you are pregnant you really can't do anything to get rid of it. I mean you can take some medicine, but nothing that will knock it out of you. Plus taking care of a sick husband and 2 kids, I don't really have the time to rest and actually get better. I am just praying that it doesn't get worse.

Thankfully Kaelyn is perfectly healthy. Not even a runny nose or anything. Praise God!!!

In the mean time our family is loading up and all the good stuff to make us feel better. The kids are drinking lots of Orange juice, water and even eating chicken noodle soup. Rich and I are taking whatever medicine we have that can make us feel a little better. And I have made sure that our house is germ free with a little help from my friend Lysol.

The best thing that we can do is try to relax and get better, So that is exactly what Jack is doing today while Kaelyn is a preschool!

Howdy Partner

2009-11-02T11:03:00.001-08:00

Introducing Sheriff Woody and his pal Jessie!!!

As you can see we dressed up at Woody and Jessie from Toy Story 2. I went looking for costumes and wasn't willing to spend $50 a piece for their costumes. So with a few trips to Joanne's Fabric store, Goodwill and Disney.com, I was able to make their costumes for under $20. I am pretty impressed with myself. I think that they turned out pretty good.

On Monday, we got tickets to go to Little Monster's at Disneyland. This is when they open up California Adventure after hours and have 18 or so stations that the kids can go get treats. They even have a few rides open for the kids to ride. Rich was out of town at his company sales meeting, so we met up with the Grasse's and Aunt Lu and Aunt Bev. The kids walked away with kites, toys and some candy. By the end of the night, all of the kids were exhausted and fell asleep as soon as we went in the car. I had my hands full while we were walking around so I didn't get any pictures of them actually trick-or-treating. This is before we went in.

Kaelyn's preschool had their Halloween Party and Trunk-or-treat for the kids. This little boy is one of Kaelyn's friends in her class that dressed up as Woody. (as you can see his parents actually spent the money to by the costume).
This is Jayla, Kaelyn's best friend at Preschool.

Then on Saturday, we went over to the Grasse's to go trick-or-treating in their neighborhood. Mia, the Pirate, Peyton, the flying pumpkin, Jack, Woody and Kaelyn, Jessie. They got a ton of candy and had a lot of fun.

Hope you had a great Halloween.

Good-bye Morning Coffee

2009-07-23T19:00:00.000-07:00

I have had to say goodbye to my morning cups of coffee. And say hello to morning sickness. Well really it is all day nausea. My new best friend is my toilet. Yes I am pregnant, 7 weeks today. My first doctors appointment is next week. I will be doing some initial testing which hopefully can tell me if I am having twins or only one baby.
I don't really know why I think that I am having twins. Maybe it is because I am soooo sick, maybe because I am a twin and Rich has twins on his side of the family so my chances go up. Maybe it is just because I have teased so many of my friends and family during their pregnancies that they were going to have twins, that I feel it is going to be me that has them. Karma.
This pregnancy is crazy. I am so sick. I remember being sick with Kaelyn, but it was nothing like this. I worked the whole time with Kaelyn, maybe taking a couple of days off before I realized that I was in fact pregnant, but I was able to work. I seriously can not function the whole day with this baby. I find myself constantly laying down in order to not feel so nauseous. Sometimes it works other times, not so much. Thankfully my mom stayed in town this week and watched the kids for a few days so I could relax and feel sick without having to watch and take care of them. What a blessing.
So if I am out of contact for a while, this is why. I really can't do much without feeling like I need to run to the toilet.
I will try to keep you all up to date with what is going on and what my doctors says about this baby or these babies. Until then I guess you can all place your bets and see who guesses right!!

Maui

2009-06-27T13:48:00.001-07:00

Here are a few of our almost 400 pictures that we took on our trip to Maui.

Sunset in Hawaii the first night.

At the resort when we got there they had a "Make your own stuff animal". So Kaelyn picked the pink pig (because it was the only animal that was pink) and Jack picked the Dinosaur (really it was a alligator).

Kids ready for their first day at the Pirate pool then off to the beach.

Hula dancing lessons. Kaelyn had to wear her Hawaiian hula outfit, with new flower rubber band.

Look at this smile.

Little miss diva. This is what she did when I asked her to look at the camera for a picture.

Hula dancing. I have video of this too, but for some reason I can't figure out how to download video on this blog.

The next day we went to a beach so that Rich and my dad could surf. They had this great tree that provided shade and also a cool backdrop for a family photo.

Holding daddy's surfboard for a picture.

The next day we drove up a little north and found this cool beach for the kids to play. It had a nice pool area for the kids to swim in and not get taken down by the waves. It also had huge sea turtles swimming just on the other side of the rocks.

I love this photo of Rich and Jack checking out the surf.

a beautiful rainbow out our window.
Kaelyn and daddy jumping in the waves.

This was our last beach day. We met up with my parents friends and their family and it was HOT!! Probably the warmest day we had, plus there was no shade or trees. But the kids had fun.

Kaelyn had to take a picture of our airplane. It is funny, now every time we see a plane she says that it is going to Hawaii. I guess airplanes only go to Hawaii.

We had so much fun and can't wait to go back. Maybe when the kids are older and can swim in the ocean by themselves. And don't need naps (even though they really didn't take naps, only when they fell asleep in the car on the way back to the resort). But we look forward to going again, hopefully with more of our family next time.

One of THOSE mornings...

2009-06-09T11:07:00.000-07:00

This morning has been one of THOSE mornings with the kids. A morning that has been filled with crying, hitting, not sharing and big tantrums. Normal punishment was not working. It got so bad this morning and I was so tired of the yelling and me having to tell the kids to share and be nice, that I did something that I never thought I would do.

I separated both kids, cleaned up the toys that were out, and I put ALL the toys in TIME-OUT. I have put a toy in time-out before, but never ALL the toys. I told the kids that if there were not going to play nicely with each other and share their toys, then they weren't going to play with their toys for the rest of the morning.

After a few minutes of crying, it finally worked. Silence.

No more yelling. No more crying. No more hitting. No more tantrums. They were forced to play nice together, because they had nothing else to play with.

It was amazing.
They were back to being best friends.
Back to being loving to one another.
Back to being the kids that I am used to.
Back to this.

"Moley Mommy"

2009-06-05T08:18:00.000-07:00

Tuesday was Jack's birthday and it was just me and the kids for dinner. Rich had a work dinner he had to go to. When it is just me and the kids for dinner, I let them pick what they want. Jack said burrito and Kaelyn said quesadilla. Got to love that they love their mexican food as much and their parents. It was a little early to start making such a quick and easy dinner so I told them I would make it in a few minutes. They went back to playing, until a few minutes later Jack walks up to me and says "Moley Mommy, Moley." I looked at him puzzled. What was he trying to say. I thought he was saying "Molly" my in-laws dog, nope. "Movie Jack?".. no not what he wanted. I could not figure out what he wanted. Looking around the living room for anything that could be "Moley." I felt so bad. He was getting so frustrated with me. He eventually gave up on his idiot mom and went back to playing.

I then went into the kitchen to make dinner and it was like the light switch went on in my brain. I look over and see the avocados and ask "Jack, did you want GUACAMOLE?" I wish I had a picture of his face. The biggest smile suddenly appeared and he shouted "Yeah!!!" Like, it was about time you figured out what I was trying to say mom. I felt so stupid.
You are probably thinking it as well. How did I not think of guacamole? but it just didn't come to mind. Needless to say, I now know what "moley" is and considering it is one of his favorite things to eat, I am sure we will be having much more Moley in the future.
Jack went on to eat 2 avocados (guacamole) and his bean n cheese burrito. The birthday boy was hungry.

My Little Man is 2!!

2009-06-02T08:25:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Jack. I love you so much. You are such a sweet little boy. So mellow and easy going. Your laugh is so contagious and your smile melts my heart. I can't believe that you are two today. Where has the time gone? You have grown up way too fast. I enjoy seeing your personality come out even more now. You love your sister so much and love playing with her (even if she doesn't want to play with you). It is so sweet to watch. You have gained your independence, so much that you always want to do everything yourself. Even if it takes you 15 minutes to buckle your seat belt. You are determined!
Your favorite things to do right now are climbing on anything and everything, throwing or should I say pitching a ball (we have a Major League Pitcher on our hands), playing with cars, trucks and dinosaurs and doing anything Kaelyn does! (which means an occasional tea party, Sorry Daddy)
You are my big boy today, but will always be my baby!

Smile for Nana!

2009-05-08T10:55:00.000-07:00

With Mother's Day this weekend, I wanted to do a photo project for my mom and mother-in-law. I saw this idea on some friends blog sites and had to try it. I went and found matching fabric and went to work. So yes their outfits are handmade (it has been a while since I have sewn). But I think that they turned out pretty good.
Last week we drove up to Ventura in record time. Seriously I made it through LA in the morning and to Ventura in a little over an hour. Unheard of.
We met up with the Pankratz boys and took some photos! These are some of the shots that Ayme and I got.
We will also take some photos with the Grasse girls that I will post later.
Here are a some of the best shots from this photo shoot.

Grasse photo shoot pics to follow!

Wedding Bliss

2009-04-24T08:48:00.000-07:00

I am a little behind in posting, but here are pictures from Brian and Candy's wedding. I also have video that I need to post of the girls dancing.

There are much more pictures that I could of posted, but I think this is enough for now.

Growing up

2009-03-19T16:12:00.000-07:00

Well it is official. Kaelyn is growing up. Today was her 1st official day of preschool, after two days of visiting. I know it is only preschool, but she is growing up so fast. I know these next years are going to go by so fast and pretty soon she will be off to college. Okay I am a little ahead of myself.But it is so true. She is so grown up.
Her conversations with me are so "real" now. It is amazing. Sometimes she and I will be having a conversation and I sometimes forget that she is my daughter, not one of my friends. (I get confused some days, I guess it is the lack of grown-ups around in the day).
I love how when Rich gets home from working all day she always asks "So Daddy, how was your day?". It is so sweet. She then proceeds to tell Daddy all that she did that day. I love how when she prays at night she thanks God for everything that she did or saw that day. ("Thank you God for my sandwich I had for lunch and for me painting at school..." was part of tonight's prayer.) I love how she mimics me on her toy cell phones. It is scary to think of what our phone bill will be when she is in her teens. She just loves to talk and tell stories.
My little girl isn't so little anymore.

When this morning came, I wasn't really sad as most other moms probably were, but I was excited. She was so excited.

We had to get "school" shoes, because she didn't want to ruin any of her other shoes. So off to Target we went earlier in the week. Thankfully they were having a sale on Converse. She picked out her shoes and of course went for the pink ones. And they had to be high-top so that the sand from the sand box at school wouldn't get in her shoes. (Very important to her).

We decorated her basket (easier than having backpacks for the teachers to get something out quickly). We still have to add the stickers we bought for it, but it is a start.

Her cousin Peyton is also in the class with her, so it makes it a lot easier. She saw Peyton this morning playing on the playground and off she went. Without a care for her mom or brother who wanted to say goodbye. Nope, playing was way more important. So Jack and I left to run some errands hoping not to get a call from the school. Before I knew it, it was time to pick her up. On the board outside her class there was picture of Kaelyn posted so everyone would know that she was new in the class. It was a picture of her showing off her finger painting artwork and hands. Which made her hands pink and took a few washes to get completely off.

They whole way home all she could talk about was everything that they did at school. Everything from what they sang to the little boy who didn't stay seated on the rug and got in trouble. I asked her if she listened to the teachers and she said "I was good mommy!"

She was so excited! She wants to go everyday, but I think two days a week is enough for now. She can't wait to go back and I have to admit that a part of me can't wait either. She really needs this socialization and needs the time away from mommy. Plus it gives me time to spend with just Jack. We need that bonding time as we really never have time just the two of us.

Our busy weekend

2009-02-24T19:29:00.000-08:00

This weekend was filled. We had so much to do and so much that we wanted to do but just couldn't. The kids started off the weekend by helping daddy outside with some well needed gardening on Friday afternoon.

Then we went to visit our friends the Zuk's to meet their new little girl Joselle. She is just an angel. So tiny. I forgot how tiny newborn babies are. Maybe that is because Jack was never that tiny. And it has been so long since Kaelyn was a baby. Anyway, when we got there all Kaelyn wanted to do was hold baby Joselle. She sat there with her on her lap talking to her and giving her hugs and kisses. Jack was right there as well. Kaelyn was so sweet talking to the baby all about the princesses. Joselle could not get enough of her and the stories. She just kept trying to follow Kaelyn and was completely listening to every word she said. It was amazing.

Now we didn't get a photo of Jack holding Joselle, but here is a link to our freinds website, where Jack is holding her and Kaelyn is telling Joselle about Ariel (her favorite princess).

www.reaxiondesign.com/joselle_3.html

We got back on Sunday afternoon and we decided to use our 2fer Disneyland tickets. (for those of you who don't know you can buy 2fer tickets which basically means 2 tickets for the price of one. But you have to go to both parks and use them within 30 days of each other. And another side note... I also found out that you can now buy season passes and pay a monthly payment for them. Instead of paying all at once.) So we went to California Adventure for the first time with the kids. It was an overcast day so it wasn't too crowded or hot. It was perfect. The Grasse's met up with us and we had a fun time.
Kaelyn got to take a picture with Minnie Mouse.

And the girls all took a picture with Mickey. Jack was a little too scared to get close. He was happy just waving Hi!

We got to see the Aladin Show (with Princess Jasmine--Kaelyn's favorite part of the day!), Flick-Bugs Life (which was a little too scary for Kaelyn, but Jack loved!). I took the girls on the Lady bug ride (basically the teacups) and we all went on the a couple other rides in the Bugs Life part of the park. We finished the day off with Monster's Inc. We had a great day, but once again I was tired and sore.

Monday came too soon for me. Rich was crazy and woke up early to go snowboarding with his friend Josh. By the end of the day he was so exhausted. I don't know how he did it. I am still recovering.
Hopefully this week will go by quickly so that I can relax this weekend.

Aquarium again

2009-02-20T11:25:00.001-08:00

Once again we went to the aquarium, but this time we got to take Aunt Ayme, Luke, Owen, Zach and "Aunt" Shelly and Molly.
The only problem... I forgot my camera.
But thankfully Shelly was prepared.
So here are a few photos, thanks Shelly.

Here are the cousins: Owen, Molly, Luke, Kaelyn and Jack deciding if they should try and touch the baby sharks and sting rays.

They were all brave enough to put their hands in the water, But I don't know if everyone actually touched anything. I do know that Luke and Owen did. This was their favorite part of the aquarium I think.

Here is Kaelyn looking at the fish.

Owen, Molly and Jack looking at the fish.

Lunch time. We ate outside and I really haven't had that big of a problem before with the birds. But for some reason today they were out of control. Maybe they were just really hungry or they have gotten more bold, but they were attacking us and our food. You couldn't set your sandwich down on the table with out a bird swooping down and trying to snatch it. It was crazy. Needless to say, lunch was eventful and quick.

We had a great time. Kaelyn and Jack were excited to show off the aquarium to their other cousins.

Wii Yoga anyone?

2009-02-03T08:44:00.001-08:00

Kaelyn has become a pro at Wii Fit Yoga. She was watching me try out my parents Wii Fit and wanted to try it herself. I was very impressed.

Here is Kaelyn doing the Half Moon pose.

And the Tree Pose. I think this was her favorite. And she did it all by herself.

Great Balance.

With a few more times on the Wii, she will be doing expert poses!

Will it End?

2009-02-03T08:09:00.000-08:00

I know that it is just a myth, but it seems to be true. Every time Jack gets more teeth he gets a cold. And this time it is no different. Actually I think this time it is the worst. Fever, running nose, congestion, now diarrhea. Not to mention, the lack of eating and overall irritability and pain. The doctor says it is just a cold, but the poor guy is having a hard time.

It took only 4 days for him to finally not have a fever. Still has the running nose and congestion though. And he just won't eat anything. Even though he is hungry. He will pull out something to eat or ask for something and will try to eat it but will end up screaming in pain and spitting out the food. I feel so helpless. I am giving him plenty to drink, but without solids...his poor stomach.
The best thing for him is sleep, and he is getting plenty of that. (Well at least during the day.)

I am just thankful that after these last eye teeth come in, they will be his last. (at least until his 2 year molars).

Trip to Pixie Hollow

2009-01-30T08:26:00.000-08:00

Kaelyn took a special trip yesterday when we went to Disneyland. Its not just that we went to Disneyland with her cousins, but Kaelyn took a very special trip. We had to wait a little while, but we were soon there. Pixie Hollow. (For those of you who don't know what that is, it is where Tinker Bell and her Fairy friends live). Kaelyn was so excited. First she got to meet Tinker Bell's Best Friend, Silver Mist.

She was in awe.

Then it was time to meet Tinker Bell.
She even "Tickled" (touched) Tinker Bell's wings. .

The look on Kaelyn's face was just priceless. She really could believe that she was talking to Tinker Bell.

Tinker Bell even made a comment on how Kaelyn had her sparkly pink shoes on just like Tinker Bell's green shoes. Kaelyn was so happy!

After Pixie Hollow it was off to Tomorrow Land. Where Kaelyn and Jack rode the rocket ships and fought off the "monsters" with Buzz Lightyear. They rode Peter Pan, Pirates of the Caribbean, Storybook Land Boat ride, Autopia and the Carousal. (I can't remember anymore).

We had a great time at Disneyland and can't wait to go back.

aches and pain

2009-01-30T08:13:00.000-08:00

After a day at Disneyland I am asking myself 1 question...did I bring the stroller? I seemed to be walking around a good majority of the day carrying my 30 lb kids. Yes there were those moments where the stroller was actually used, but between Jack having a fever and Kaelyn getting "tired", I ended up holding one of them. If it wasn't for Jack taking his short naps throughout the day I don't think I would of gotten a break. By the end of the day my legs and lower back were so sore. I woke up this morning limping I am so sore. I never realized how old and out of shape I am.

Winter Day in the LBC

2009-01-21T10:32:00.000-08:00

Another reminder of why we live in So Cal!!!
Saturday it was a cool 80 degrees here in Long Beach, so we bundled up the kids at took them to the park!! The kids chased the squirrels for a little bit

then ran over to the playground.

Kaelyn began to climb up the ladder and Jack followed.

And then it was off to the slide. Kaelyn went down and Jack followed.

This went on for a while and then Kaelyn was off to another part of the park.
Jack on the other hand didn't want to stop the slide. He kept climbing up the stairs and going down the big slide all by himself for about 15 minutes. Over and over again. He didn't want any help. Mr. Independent. It was amazing. Rich just stood at the slide waiting for him and would cheer him on as he went down. I can't believe how big he is getting.

Kaelyn then tried swinging by herself.

I was impressed she can almost do it.

After almost two hours of playing at the park, it was lunch time!!! Juice, Juice, Juice.
They both downed their juice boxes in seconds. All that playing made them very thirsty.

Overall it was a great day at the park! And we had to enjoy the beautiful winter weather!

Little Lessons

2009-01-21T10:15:00.001-08:00

This morning as I was drinking my morning coffee and checking my email I can hear the kids playing over by the stairs. I can hear Jack start to walk up the stairs and I tell him to get down and he starts to walk down the steps holding onto the railing. I am so proud of him for listening to me and holding on by himself as he carefully walks down the steps. He gets to the bottom step and then I see him lean through the rails and give me a huge smile and little laugh. I smile back and tell him to climb down.
Lets just say that I chose the wrong words.
He then proceeds to climb through the rails onto the couch. I was speechless! Laughing as I walk over to get him off the top of the couch.
I only wish I was quick enough to think about getting the camera and take a picture. I guess it will have to wait until next time. Because I know it will happen again. At least I know he listens to me.

I learned a great lesson today, choose your words wisely!!

Stylist in Training

2009-01-13T18:12:00.000-08:00

I remember a few years back looking at all my old photos from growing up while I was trying to help my mom scrapbook our albums. In almost every picture where we are just playing around the house or on some trip somewhere (except the special occasions, Easter, Christmas), Sally and I are wearing the strangest outfits. Sally more than me!! But I just remember asking my mom why she dressed us like that. I am talking about mismatched, ugly outfits. Seriously. Why is Sally wearing pink and yellow plaid pants with a purple and blue floral print shirt and bright green sweater. I just couldn't understand why my mom dressed us like that. She always said that we dressed ourselves. But I just didn't understand. I thought, how hard is it to pick out an outfit for us and have us put it on. I am realizing now what my mom was talking about. Kaelyn is so into what she wears. I mean she even decides if she is going to have pig-tails, 1 pony, clips, or headband. I can't make her put on anything. I can try to persuade her a little, but she has a mind of her own. It can be freezing (you know 60 degrees!) and she will want to wear a tank top and skirt. I tell her that it is too cold to wear just that, so she will pick out tights and a sweater to match. Now luckily she hasn't got too crazy with her outfits like Sally did (She at least matches), but lately she has been known to change her outfit a couple times a day. Mostly into different Princess dresses, but sometimes I will go into her room after nap time and she is in a completely different outfit than she went to bed in. All I can do is just laugh. What can I say, maybe she will have a career in fashion or as a stylist.

Hide'n'Go Seek

2009-01-13T17:53:00.000-08:00

Rich was watching the kids the other afternoon while I went to the dentist. I get home and Rich tells me this story.
He was sitting in the living room on the phone with one of his friends. When he got off the phone he realized that it was very quite. Kaelyn was sitting reading a book and as he looked around he couldn't find Jack. He looked in his usual hiding places (kitchen, bathroom, behind the couch), but he wasn't there. He was calling for him, thinking could he have opened the door and gone outside into the garage. As he is walking down the hall to the garage, calling for Jack, he hears Jack giggle. He opened the bathroom door, but he wasn't in there. So he stood in the hall calling for Jack again. Jack giggles some more and now Rich opens the hall closet door. Sure enough there he was with the biggest smile on his face and he just starts laughing.
He is not even 2 and he already is good at hide 'n' go seek.

Santa

2008-12-20T11:50:00.001-08:00

After a failed attempt last weekend because Santa had to take a nap and we would have to come back to see him (South Coast Plaza with weekend crowds + 2 tired kids + over an hour wait = disaster.) Last night, after eating dinner with friends, we decided to try Westmister Mall and attempt to take the kids once again to see Santa.
Kaelyn was so excited on the way over. We stood in a short line for maybe 30 minutes. Kaelyn couldn't wait to see Santa and tell him what she wanted for Christmas. Jack seemed to be excited too. He kept pointing at Santa and in his talk (grunt) saying Santa. I was so excited because I thought we might actually get a happy picture.
It was our turn, Kaelyn and Jack grabbed my hands to walk up to Santa and the struggle began. With a little tugging on my part I got both kids up to Santa. Jack started screaming as I picked him up to put him on Santa's lap and never stopped. (Can I just say that this Santa was pretty strong. Jack is not easy to hold down when he is crying and wants to get away) I put Kaelyn on Santa's lap and she was a little uncertain. Calling my name and reaching for me. She looked at me with this terrified look on her eyes. Not quite sure if she should cry or smile for the picture. We tried everything to get them excited and smile at the camera but this is what we got. Classic!

Getting over a fear

2008-12-02T10:44:00.000-08:00

My brother Cory and his wife, Jennifer, have 2 bunnies. (Max and Maddie) Ever since they moved back out to California, we (I mean Kaelyn) get to take care of the bunnies when they are gone. It has only been twice, but Kaelyn loves them. Jack on the other hand is another story.

We go over there a lot and the first thing Kaelyn does is run into the guest room where they are to go and feed them. For the longest time, Jack wouldn't even go into the room. Seriously of all the animals to be afraid of, bunnies wouldn't be on the top on my list. I just think he didn't like that fact that these small things could move so fast and he wasn't quite sure what they were. So he would stand at the door and watch. Any time that one of the bunnies would hop or move he would turn his head and hide. Slowly we have been working on him and he was actually going into the room but wouldn't touch them or feed them. I was just happy that he was in the room.

Well then on Sunday, we went over to their house for Sunday lunch with the fam. With help from my mom, Muah, he surprised us all! I walk into the room and there standing in the cage, holding out his hand for Max to take a banana chip from was Jack. I think my mouth dropped I was so shocked. I just couldn't believe it. Not only was he in the cage, but he was feeding the bunnies right out of his hand. Kaelyn didn't even do that yet. He had the biggest smile on his face and was so happy. I think he was just so proud of himself. I yelled for Rich to come in and document the occasion.
Here he is petting Max.

It only took him about 4 months, but he is finally not afraid of Max and Maddie!!!

Little faces

2008-12-02T09:00:00.000-08:00

Kaelyn is our little artist. As you saw from an earlier post for her birthday party we had a art party. She loves painting, coloring and drawing. She has really mastered the art of coloring. She definitely gets her artistic side from her father. She really only likes to color between the lines (which is unheard of for a 3 year old), But she has been like that for a while. She will come out of Sunday school with pictures, and I can tell when a teacher helped her color her paper. I will see pink crayon just scribbled on the page, like most toddlers draw, and then in another section carefully colored picture with the crayon only between the lines. It is too funny! She is a perfectionist! Here are a few examples from the past few months.
Here she is carefully coloring in little lady bugs and caterpillars.

(No I didn't help her with this one, She did it all by herself)

When I think she was 1 we gave her this little book for her to draw in. It has become her little doodle book. Every page is filled with little drawings. She adds to her masterpieces almost daily. The other day while I was in the kitchen cooking she came up to me to show me what she had drawn.
"Mommy, look at the faces I colored!"

I was so amazed! I kept thinking to myself...did I draw those for her? But I didn't. She did it all by herself. Rich was so impressed when he got home. He couldn't believe it either.

Sunset at HB pier

2008-11-14T11:32:00.000-08:00

Last night Rich and I drove to HB to have dinner on the pier at Ruby's with the kids. Kaelyn loves walking along the pier and looking at the waves, which makes Rich very happy. She comments on all the surfers and how big the waves are. Rich can't wait until both of the kids are out there with him. Rich took some cute pics on his phone of the kids and I had to post them.

3 years ago

2008-11-03T10:45:00.000-08:00

3 years ago, it was Halloween day. I left work early (thanks to my boss who didn't want anything to do with a tired, pregnant lady). I was laying on the couch watching Oprah, and Rich was in the garage cleaning up. When I went to the kitchen to get a drink and my water broke. I wasn't quite sure what was going on, I still had a month to go in my pregnancy. I had nothing ready. I remember going out the garage and saying, "Rich I think my water broke." Needless to say he was shocked. We packed up our stuff and drove to the hospital. I was checked in and they ran some test. They came back and said nope your water didn't break, you can leave. I was so confused. What was going on. We drove home and I tried to get some sleep. But I knew that my water broke and I was in labor. So we drove back to the hospital. Sure enough, my water did break and I was in labor. November 2nd at 7:45 in the morning Kaelyn came into this world weighing 6lbs and perfect. From that day on our lives were changed. We had this perfect princess to care for and love. It was a great day.

Then I was reminded last night by Rich's friend Garrett, that the first night in the hospital after Kaelyn was born Rich left me and Kaelyn to go to the Lakers Game. Yes you heard me right, he took advantage of his drugged up and tired wife and went to a Laker game. His friends came by to see him and his daughter that night, but he wasn't around. They continue to say that it shows what a saint I am for letting him go. (I don't know about that, I say it was too out of it to realize what was going on). Garrett uses this example to tell his guy friends what not to do to your wife. I just know that it is a story that I won't ever let him live down!!

I still can't believe that it has been 3 years. My little baby girl is no longer a baby. She is potty trained (YEAH!!! Only 1 in diapers). She is my little chatter box. She loves anything and everything girly. Dress-up, princesses, make-up, purses, talking on the phone. She loves to paint and color, and she amazes me with how well she can color. She only likes to color between the lines and use specific colors. She is amazing. She loves to sing and dance. (She takes after her daddy) And loves to be the center of attention. Kaelyn is so caring and sweet. She takes such good care of her little brother. They are so close and I can tell that they are going to be such good friends when they grow up. She is such a blessing to our family. We love her!

The Big 3!!

2008-11-03T08:50:00.000-08:00

Kaelyn loves to color and paint. She is our little artist, so I decided to do a painting party for her birthday. We cleaned out the garage and set it up with easels, and small tables and chairs. I had gotten some painting ideas, one with marbles and another with color diffusing paper. I had face paint, but the kids wanted to color all the adults faces, legs and arms instead. All of Kaelyn's cousins and little friends came over to paint. It was quite the site! All these little kids in matching paint aprons creating works of art! There were a lot of proud parents and grandparents! But the party was a success. Kaelyn got a ton of princess dresses and dress up stuff, which made her year!! I don't think we will be wearing anything but princess dresses for a while.

Kaelyn painting with marbles.

Jack painting with marbles and Uncle Cory putting SD Chargers Lightning Bolt on Jack's Face.

Some of the artwork.

Kaelyn's friend Katherine.

Cousin Mia.

Cousin Peyton painting on the easel.

Kaelyn's friend Mia Rose.

Kaelyn's cousin Molly.

Kaelyn's friend Charlie

Kaelyn with her cousins Luke and Owen waiting for the cake.

Kaelyn's cake.

Blowing out candles

I have a 3 year old!!!

Halloween

2008-11-03T08:41:00.000-08:00

This year Kaelyn wanted to be a princess (surprise, surprise), So we dressed her up as Cinderella. Jack was a Monkey (Rich's favorite). We took pictures with our neighbors daughter, Katherine and then went over to our friends house in Belmont Shores and walked down their street. Kaelyn got to hand out candy at their house before we took them. She had fun putting candy in the kids bags. (But their were a few "scary monsters" that we had to help with). Then it was Kaelyn's turn. Kaelyn was really excited to say "Trick or Treat" to everyone. The street had a few scary houses that she didn't want to go up to, but as soon as they came out with candy she couldn't get up there fast enough. She wanted to keep going, but it was getting late and she had way too much candy already. So we headed home. She said on the way home she wanted to Halloween tomorrow too!!

Pumpkin Carving

2008-10-29T10:06:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we went up to Mua (that's Grandma) and Papa's house while Rich was out of town for his company sales meeting. Kaelyn and Papa carved pumpkins.

Kaelyn told Papa exactly how she wanted to carve the face of the pumpkin, and she even helped to clean it out. Jack didn't want to miss out on any of the fun either. He had to be right in the action, sitting on Papa's lap while he carved the face. It was fun!!

Cousin Mia's B-day Party

2008-10-14T09:41:00.001-07:00

Here are a few pics from their cousin Mia's 4th birthday party. I am trying to figure out how do download video of both of the kids jumping in the princess bounce house. When I figure that out I will put it up on the site.

Kaelyn's cookie that she decorated.

The 3 girl cousins!! Birthday girl Mia in the middle!

This is the princess bounce house that we had a hard time getting Kaelyn or Jack out of because they were having so much fun. That is when there weren't alot of wild and crazy bigger kids jumping in there.

Jack enjoying some cookie with daddy!

Jack's stitches out

2008-10-07T15:02:00.000-07:00

Last night, Aunt Jennifer came over and took out Jack's stitches. He was a little confused why we were holding him down, but didn't even cry. (I don't even think he knew what was going on) Jen and I were a little concerned that he might be a little scared of her because of the experience, but he wasn't. He went back to running around with Kaelyn like nothing happened. Now he has a little scar, but hopefully it will fade away. Thank you Jennifer!!! You are the best doctor we know!

Jack's 1st trip to the ER

2008-10-02T15:24:00.001-07:00

So I am sure that this is only going the beginning of many trips to the ER.

Jack was running around the house playing, the next thing I hear is him hitting Kaelyn's doll house. He starts crying and runs over too me. His head is bleeding! I rush him to the ER, Kaelyn in tow . Luckly, Rich was able to meet me there, and Aunt Jennifer was working upstairs in Peds and was able to stop by for support. A few hours later and after being wrapped up and held down, he got 4 stiches. It doesn't look like much from the picture, but he got himself good.

Round 1 goes to the doll house!!!

The Family

2008-10-02T08:45:00.001-07:00

So a few weeks ago, one of Rich's friends was out from Chicago coaching in a soccer tournament at Pepperdine, so we met up with him and took him to the beach in Malibu for an hour or so before his game. We took this picture with Rich's IPhone and it was a great pic of the family!

Blogging!!!

2008-10-02T08:42:00.000-07:00

So I am finally setting up a website to Blog. My sister will be so proud! But I thought it would be a great way that the family can get an update on what the kids are doing, see updated pics, etc. So here it is!