Lily & Jack

merry christmas, friends!

2011-12-24T11:41:00.000-08:00

We were so fortunate to spend all last week celebrating with family in Florida.... a wonderful trip that we managed to keep a surprise from the kids until 30 minutes before we left for the airport. SO FUN! Happy, happy memories. So thankful.

Tonight it's all about the children's pageant at church and celebrating with sweet friends. Life is full. Love is all around. Our children are healthy and happy. Blessings are endless.

Merry Christmas, everyone! We love you!

birthday eve

2011-11-13T19:18:00.000-08:00

We celebrated our super girl a day early---

4 was such a good year. Can't wait for all the fun that 5 brings.

an american in dallas

2011-11-11T21:39:00.000-08:00

When we first visited American Girl Place, 5 just seemed so far away.

But here we are in the last few days of 4, ya'll. Whew.

Lil and her Grammy had been planning this trip for months. The drive from Austin to Dallas was a loooong one. Such excitement... but can you blame her? Serious girl wonderland.

Her Just Like Me doll has been majorly loved. Note my hasty attempt to get her crazy hair fixed up into the only bow I had in my bag. That doll goes through at least 5 wardrobe and hair-do changes a day. An entire section of Lil's room has been devoted to all things American. I love that she's so into it.

She's so into it that her biggest fan happens to have a "boy baby" of his own, thanks to Grammy. My American Boy. His wife is going to thank us all one day. :)

Choosing that doll was a painstaking process. SO many to pick from. But when she came across this one, the decision was made.

And that sweet, happy smile on her face is exactly how I'll remember my girl at not-quite-5. Love you, Lil.

happy halloween

2011-11-01T20:50:00.000-07:00

Such a fun Halloween spent with wonderful friends. Big smiles on the faces of our babies and oohs and ahhs over all things (sp)"oooooky!"

Happy Halloween, friends!

finally fall...

2011-10-02T10:57:00.000-07:00

...except that when we arrived at Sweet Berry Farms in Marble Falls, Mother Nature had apparently not gotten the memo that fall had officially arrived and it was 103 stinkin degrees.

Still, my babies share my love for fall and they were determined to make the best of it.

We packed as much as we could into a short visit-- sadly, the flowers and barrel train were a bust this year-- and the pumpkin ice cream has never tasted as good as it did on our way out.

In the end, we came home with our family of pumpkins. So it may still feel like summer outside, but fall has definitely arrived at our house, and that makes me one happy mama.

thomas

2011-10-01T19:31:00.000-07:00

A highly anticipated day by a certain little boy.

("Mama, dat's THOMAS!")

I had been up north for a few days at a teaching conference, but there was no way that I was going to miss seeing my boy meet his favorite train.

I'm so glad I didn't have to. He was in wide-eyed, complete awe.

We took a short ride backwards (yikes) and then back to the station.

Someone was a bit put off by the obvious lack of little girls on that train but still enjoyed herself.

We left with a pledge to never wash the area where they'd been given temporary Thomas tattoos (ha), slightly annoying train whistles and a little boy with some serious choo choo fever. :)

today.

2011-09-30T15:00:00.001-07:00

I'm so thankful to have a job where I have Fridays and Mondays off. These are our days. We snuggle. Explore. Get smoothies. Try out new spots. Hang out with friends. Sometime wear our pjs way too late into the day. But this morning, we spent our time at the museum with dinosaurs. And they loved it.

a little bit country

2011-09-12T16:28:00.001-07:00

She loves her school, but it's been a bumpy start as the only kid from her previous class not old enough to move on to kindergarten. She misses her old friends, especially her bff who "started kindergarten without ME!"

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We spent some time at Emily's house this weekend, enjoying the company of her wonderful family and loving the sound of our girls squealing and laughing together.

2011-09-12T16:27:00.001-07:00

Now, I know it's only a matter of time before the newness of this year wears off and she gets into a groove, but after a mopey couple of weeks, it was just so nice to see her smiling.

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I just hope it sticks.

back to school

2011-09-07T19:37:00.000-07:00

2011-08-18T21:06:00.000-07:00

I made a promise at the beginning of the summer that I'd make the most of this time with my kids, and as the countdown begins for all of us to return to school, I am left with no regrets.

(Thank you, Kristin, for this photo!!!)

They-- Lily, in particular-- are ready to go back, but their mama sure isn't. Today we crossed the very last item off of our bucket list in the company of some fantastic friends. I'm telling you, my heart is just full of gratitude for being able to be home with them every single day of this wonderful summer. We have had a blast.

the good ship lollipop

2011-08-09T10:37:00.000-07:00

Lil's big recital, including a mild freak-out from her mama, who was convinced she was losing her tap shoe, and her brother, who ticked off that he couldn't jump onstage and join his big sister. :)

She was truly concerned with not straying from her number that was taped to the floor, and notice how about half-way through she starts eating up the audience--- she was digging being on that stage.

This, my friends, will most definitely be played at her wedding one day. It's a keeper.

princess camp

2011-08-05T20:30:00.000-07:00

Big ol' ham. She was seriously concerned about that puppy.

She's been waiting 5 months for this and it lived up to all it's hype.... 1 blissful week of dancing, crafting sparkly tiaras, a visit from the real Belle and hanging out in her fanciest attire with her favorite ballet buddies. The biggest dilemma: too many gowns, too few days. Our sweet princess had a blast.

Sea World

2011-07-21T19:20:00.001-07:00

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2011-07-21T19:18:00.001-07:00

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2011-07-21T19:16:00.001-07:00

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2011-07-21T19:13:00.001-07:00

Such a fun time with my sweet, goofball family. Super thankful for the awesome waterpark here on this scorcher of a day...rode the waterslide with my babies 25 times (Jack in my lap, Lil.in his=baby bro sandwich! :) ) until Mike met up with us. So glad we went. This mama is wiped out!

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celebrating the boy

2011-07-12T17:58:00.000-07:00

A splash party bash at his favorite spot. His best buds--current girlfriend(s) included-- and, of course, all things "Yo Gabba Gabba."

His auntie showed up with this cake and wowed us all....

It was her first attempt at a cake and, obviously, a completely awesome one. Jack was thrilled and quickly became intent on making sure that no one ate his beloved Muno, which wouldn't have been a problem except...

Muno was seriously delicious. There were happy red faces everywhere... so Jack eventually gave up on his cause and joined their crew. :)

This sweet child of ours. He is loved by so many. Seriously loved. I'm completely biased, but I have to say it's pretty hard not to love him.

Plain and simple, he's just a great kid. A great kid who is lucky to be growing up with great friends....

one of which who happens to be exactly 4 days younger than him, so we made sure to sing the birthday song to her too.

After all, according to her mom, she may be my daughter-in-law someday. :)

I'm pretty sure the potential SILs would be entirely okay with that too, considering they are joined at the hip these days. Stinkers.

Such a happy boy. Such a fun day. We were all worn out once the party finally came to an end.

I could be sad about the fact that the baby phase has ended in our house, but instead I've had this overwhelming feeling of gratitude for all that these past 4 years, 8 months have brought us. Such a joy.

Happy Birthday, little man.

Take a hike

2011-07-11T11:09:00.001-07:00

Hanging out on top of Austin and checking another item off of our summer bucket list on this beautiful day!

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two

2011-07-05T20:35:00.000-07:00

Such a fun day we've had celebrating the boy who has brought so much happiness to our family these past 2 years.

We love you, Jack.

Saturday morning happy

2011-07-02T08:18:00.001-07:00

Rainbow nails and grammy. She's a happy girl.

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Summer

2011-07-01T13:13:00.001-07:00

We are enjoying busy mornings at our favorite places, quiet afternoons followed by trips to the pool with friends and dinners cooked on the grill. They both have farmer tans and extra bright, wild blonde hair...it has been a sweet summer so far and I love that we've only reached the half-way point.

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vbs

2011-06-17T11:54:00.001-07:00

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she did it

2011-06-15T19:41:00.000-07:00

Her first recital has come and gone.

So often this kid surprises us and this day was no exception. I, especially, had been nervous for her once I'd heard about the huge venue she'd be performing in.

There was no need to worry, though. She was beautiful, confident and danced with a joyful smile on her face. When we picked her up in the green room after the show, she said "I am just so happy for MYSELF!" :) That girl.... she makes us so proud. Way to go, Lil!

happy campers

2011-05-31T18:42:00.000-07:00

Our first camping adventure.... one that we plan on making an annual family trip.

We somehow hit the campground jackpot... a beautiful place not too far from Austin full of natural spring pools, streams and beautiful butterfly gardens.

It was gorgeous. Our little campsite looked over the water so that we could watch people floating on tubes down below.

We did all the classic camping stuff.... smores, hikes, silly stories, songs, shadow puppets and cookouts over an open fire.

Lil and Jack ran wild. They floated in the swimming hole, dug in the dirt, threw rocks in the stream, made new friends, chased butterflies and let inchworms crawl up their arms. So cool to see them enjoying the freedom to just explore.

We slept together in a tent and lived to tell about it! :) Lily woke up several times each night worried that "raccoons might break in!" and Jack would stir, look up and say "whoa."

Our kids were stinky, dirty, exhausted messes by the time it was all over (we weren't much better), but we left with no regrets.... just a whole lot of great memories and plans to do it all over again next year.

happy memorial day!

2011-05-30T19:36:00.000-07:00

Summer has officially arrived! :)

the (almost) graduate

2011-05-25T20:13:00.000-07:00

What a year my girl has had. I couldn't be any more proud of her.

dinos marching

2011-05-25T19:58:00.000-07:00

One of many highlights from Lil's end of the year program at school. You can find her in the front row, center, avoiding the elbow of the boy standing next to her. :)

love them.

2011-05-19T18:20:00.001-07:00

Hope they stay buds forever.

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live from water day 2011

2011-05-11T12:12:00.001-07:00

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2011-05-11T12:06:00.001-07:00

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2011-05-11T12:05:00.001-07:00

4 more school days til summer!!

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a keeper.

2011-05-07T18:11:00.001-07:00

My sweet family surprised me big time this morning when they dropped me off at a day spa-- wonderful and such a treat!!-- but I'll tell you, this gift would have been more than enough. Priceless. I smile every time I look at it.

I can't remember life without her or her baby brother.... so blessed to be their mama.

to our peeps

2011-04-24T19:38:00.000-07:00

We wish you a Happy Easter!

2011

2010:

easter lily

2011-04-23T07:27:00.000-07:00

These are the memories that I'll hold in my heart when my kiddos are grown up and way too big for such "baby stuff."

Like how she told me that she wouldn't sit on the Easter Bunny's lap because "who knows what could be hiding in all that fur."

Or how she spent most of the week stuffing, opening and then re-stuffing the 6 jumbo eggs that she ended up taking as her contribution to the hunt because "I really need some practice before the real thing."

Or how she's been singing "Here Comes Lily Cottontail" while hopping down our hallway with her brother imitating her every move.

I love these days... and when they're over, I sure will miss them.

2011-04-15T15:27:00.000-07:00

He and I headed off off on our own to the Zilker Garden Festival a couple of weekends ago. It was a perfect plan: fresh air and good music for both of us and even after some major success last year, mama still needed all the gardening help she could get.

Little man was, however, much more interested in climbing the rocks. And saying "hello der" to every dog he came across. And running through the open fields. And waving at his beloved train that kept passing by. And being that it was our morning together, his mama was completely okay with the change in plans. In so many ways, this spring has been a beautiful one.

strawberry fields forever

2011-04-09T06:20:00.000-07:00

Such a lovely idea for celebrating a friend--- despite the crazy hot weather, we had a blast.
Happy Birthday, Olivia!

superbug

2011-04-08T08:40:00.000-07:00

It's been all about bugs at school... planting herbs and flowers in our school garden, watching caterpillars get all gooey, spin their cocoons and eventually turn into butterflies. He calls them "Bs." Yesterday, they set the Bs free. So sweet. He's loved every minute and is pretty darn attached to this hat.

Our little tornado. He makes things very interesting in our house. Busy, busy.

Goofball... you are so much fun.

you

2011-04-01T19:43:00.000-07:00

Absolutely cannot wait to be 5. Recently learned how to swing by yourself. Spontaneously pirouette in the aisles at Target. Share your life story with people you've just met. Want your room to be purple, which now ranks right up there with pink. Use your hands to talk. Remember the teeniest details of even the most insignificant event. Are walking, breathing "puppies and rainbows." Have started to recognize words and write them without any drama. Love flip-flops, nightgowns and twirly skirts. Hate the idea of missing school. Have already decided to be Wonder Woman next Halloween. Greet your friends with squeals and hugs. Worry about what you'll be when you grow up. Must have carrots in your lunchbox. Make your baby brother howl with laughter. Are happy, smart, funny and beautiful on the inside and out.

You just love life, Lily-bean, and we love you.

hook 'em

2011-03-24T18:34:00.000-07:00

a whale of a time

2011-03-22T19:37:00.000-07:00

let's go fly a kite

2011-03-21T20:37:00.000-07:00

The Kite Festival. It's Austin's Spring kickoff party.

Pure happiness & a whole lot of fun surrounded by good people... just an awesome event and
yet another reason why we love living here. It's a good town, ya'll.

ballerina girl

2011-02-19T17:26:00.000-08:00

I gave in on my rule about choosing only 1 activity at a time when Lily came home from school right before Christmas and told us "I just feel so happy when I dance!" Right then and there I promised to enroll her in her old ballet class once the new year came around.

And so between ballet and gymnastics, she's spent the last 6 weeks with extremely happy- and busy- feet.

She is doing things that we once worried she wouldn't be able to. The girl loves to twirl.

Monday marked the end of an era--- Lil's last class with sweet Ms. Tracy, who has been such a positive influence. She encouraged us to move Lily on to a progressive class, so we did. She is soooo excited.

The new class starts next week and will lead up to a recital in June on a "real stage with CURTAINS and COSTUMES!!" Such a ham.

It seems that our girl has fallen in love with dance.

Her mama is just a tad thrilled to see her getting so much joy from something that I loved too.

And although we are all incredibly proud of her, her baby brother might possibly be her #1 fan.

2011-02-14T18:23:00.000-08:00

a valentine, in video

2011-02-14T15:07:00.000-08:00

be mine

2011-02-13T19:47:00.000-08:00

Our dining room floor has been covered in pink and red sparkles since last week, when Valentine's Day literally exploded all over our house.

Lil has been hard at work making cards for every single one of her friends, teachers, gymnastics coaches and dance teachers..... along with invitations to celebrate her 5th birthday, which happens to be in November. Goofball.

She ended up using picture cards for her classmates (autographed and bedazzled on the back, and a chocolate heart stuck on the front, an homage to her beloved "Lily's Chocolate Heart" book) and Barbie cards for everyone else.

Jack had some help with his. I did too.... on both of theirs... so thankful for all of the creative ideas out there in internet-land.

Her daddy surprised her with pink roses at her class party.

They ate strawberries and heart shaped cookies, wore love crowns, read stories and sang "I'm a Teeny Tiny Valentine for You."

Ridiculously cute.

One of her buddies had a Valentine's Party later in the week.

Crazy cuteness all over again.

But what they were both the most excited about was the special breakfast with Daddy at the end of the week.

Donuts AND Daddy... doesn't get much better than that.

I've never been much of a Valentines-ish girl, but they've got me changing my tune. Little lovers. :)

an earful

2011-02-05T14:24:00.000-08:00

We've always left this one up to her and the answer has always been an emphatic "NO," Or, quite recently after watching another little girl have it done, it was "When I'm 5... or 15."

And then.... out of the blue yesterday, once the snow had melted, she announced that she was ready.

Huh?

Before we knew it, we were on our way as promised, and...

Our girl, who has been referred to as a drama queen once or twice (we love you, Lil), didn't even flinch when she was told that it might "feel like a shot." She marched right into the store, picked out a pair of "sparkly" pink earrings and sat in the chair, excited and nervous....

and there were no tears until after we told her it was over, but they didn't last long.

I wasn't that brave when I had the same thing done at her age. There might have even been screaming involved. I'm pretty sure I had to be bribed with ice cream.

None of that for her, though. There was a lot of smiling and staring in the mirror. She had done it.

After it was all over, we celebrated her bravery over frozen yogurt before dinner.... because we're wild and crazy like that.

And maybe because we all have major love for the stuff.

There's no doubt about it.... she is officially a big girl.

And she's got the ears to prove it.

may all your valentine's days be white

2011-02-04T18:58:00.000-08:00

Since this is the second year in a row that we've seen snow close to Valentine's Day, my daughter is convinced that it just goes along with the holiday. Hearts, love and snow. Makes sense to me.

In fact, I kind of love that. So her.

She has been telling us for weeks that it would happen and I'm so glad that it did.

She was the last one to wake up. It was a grouchy wakeup.... that is, until I opened her window and she looked outside. I'm sure our neighbors heard her squeal "YEEEEEEEEESSS! SNOOOOOOW!"

I loved today. ALL of us were off on an official snow day.

It was a constant cycle of coming in the house to sit by the fire and then out again once the feeling had returned to our fingers and toes.

We didn't ditch the pjs that we wore under our coats until 4pm, when most of the snow had already melted.

We had fun.... laughed until we cried at our crazy boy, who fell face first into the snow and only began to fuss when we brought him inside to make sure no damage had been done.

He'd have stayed outside all day long if we'd let him.

He took time to taste a couple of flakes. They got an "mmmmmmmm!"

And the realization that not only was this fabulous white stuff fun to run in but it could be shaped into a ball.... well, that pretty much blew his mind.

Such a fun day.

And just in case it doesn't happen again any time soon, we've got a couple of snowballs stored away in our freezer. According to our girl, "we might need them one day." I guess you never know. :)

brrrrr

2011-02-02T19:10:00.000-08:00

7am, 18 degrees, a freezing house with no power, and 2 kids who are not fans of the dark= just a little bit of a crazy, hectic morning.

I am feeling especially thankful tonight to be in my warm, safe home....

something I hope my babies never, ever take for granted.

disneyworld, part 1 of many:)

2011-01-21T14:25:00.000-08:00

1/2 way to 2

2011-01-14T15:40:00.000-08:00

18 months old. A 27-pound stink.

Recovering from a nasty stick (don't ask)injury that left him with a bloody and black eye. This is following a wound to his head at school that almost made his mama pass out and a fall that left a mark on his head earning him the nickname "unicorn." Could possibly have a future in mountain climbing.... or as a stunt double.

Loves all people, but his sister is his hands-down favorite. Obsessed with her Bitty Baby. May take his paci with him to college. Has a girlfriend named Peyton, and gets embarrassed at the mention of her name. Loathes socks and being stuck indoors. Would rather grunt and point than talk. Waves goodbye to our house every time we drive away. Still not much into his crib or sleeping in general.

A huge fan of trains, puzzles, tractors, Good Night Gorilla, dogs, dinosaurs and The Itsy Bitsy Spider. Scribbles in circles. Has a mean throwing arm. Can and will build Lego towers taller than himself, gets excited at doing so and says "I DID DAT!"

Our baby, but quickly becoming apparent that he is much more so a big boy. It is an age that is at times adorable and frustrating, terrifying and endearing. One thing is always certain: we adore the boy.

Happy 1/2 Birthday, Jack-Man!

we wish you a merry christmas!

2010-12-24T11:14:00.000-08:00

the north pole flyer

2010-12-13T20:23:00.000-08:00

When Mike asked me what I wanted for Christmas this year, I told him no stuff-- just getting out there, doing things and making memories...

...best present ever.

hark! the herald angels sing

2010-12-12T18:06:00.000-08:00

oh, christmas tree

2010-12-06T18:38:00.000-08:00

A family tradition 3 years in the making, we wouldn't miss this one for the world.....

It's the trip that kicks off Christmas in our house every year and we'll keep going even when we have to drag them there. :)

Merry Christmas, everyone!

he speaks

2010-12-04T07:26:00.000-08:00

Santa worship.... his biggest fan from afar (Be sure to pay special attention to his sister's interpretive dance going on in the background).

We'll see how big and bad he is this afternoon when we put him on the big guy's lap.

the birthday girl

2010-11-14T19:46:00.000-08:00

.

Happy Birthday, Bug. We love you to the moon and back.

happy halloween

2010-11-01T05:23:00.000-07:00

take one

2010-10-19T19:21:00.001-07:00

In so many ways, it feels like we already have a kindergartner in our house.

But kindergarten is still 2 years away and I am entirely okay with that.

This is what we like to call Pre-K, Round One.

She signs in and out of class each day on her own, barely muttering a "Bye, mama" as I wave goodbye from the door.

I could pretend that it bothers me, but mostly I'm ecstatic.

I love seeing her this happy! I love that she pouts on non-school days.

In a class full of children who are already celebrating their 5th birthdays, she is desperate to be 4. As far as she is concerned, her birthday cannot come fast enough.

She has her moments where her 3-dom is evident. Writing time often makes her come unglued--- "My "Y" is not PERFECT!!!!!!!!!!!" Still, the girl holds her own and does not give up.

At the end of each week, our house is full of artwork, practice writing strips and books that she's made with the help of her teachers, the wonderful Mrs. Denham and Mrs. Seaback.

(This story goes on and on, but you get the idea.... I adore these books and plan on keeping them forever!)

After a unit on nursery rhymes, she has started to put letters together and sound out words.... something I've been through in working with other kids, but to see my own doing it--- so unbelievably awesome.

She comes home with dirt on her face, finger paint under her nails and singing songs that she's learned in music class.

I usually spend the car ride home trying to keep a straight face as I listen to her complete recap of adventures with friends... and the not-so-adventures, like being called a "dirty double" (??!) before being chased by the boys on the playground. Oh, the boy stuff...

In her final weeks of being 3, I often look at her and wonder how such a big person can be housed in such a little body. There is just so much to her, so much that she continues to overcome, and so much that makes me incredibly proud to be her mom. Love you, Lil!

the patch

2010-10-04T07:35:00.000-07:00

Thank you for this day, Autumn.

It made me remember why you're my favorite one of them all.

wait. where's the "elmo?!!!!!"

2010-09-06T14:25:00.000-07:00

It was, really, the only breakdown we had on our quick weekend trip to San Antonio.

Apparently, her excitement over seeing this spot was about something completely different than we thought. 3-year-olds. :)

The rest of the trip was fun. San Antonio is a good town.

We watched the ducks and boats pass by while we ate at a restaurant I used to visit with my parents when I was a kid,

braved the blazing Texas sun to hit 6 Flags,

took a tour boat ride through the Riverwalk,

had to correct her that this was, in fact, not THE devil,

watched cartoons together in our hotel room,

cuddled up,

checked things out from high above,

people watched,

ate chips and salsa,

swam,

ran around like superheroes,

let Jack drive,

and realized pretty quickly that our daughter is a daredevil.

She was not a happy camper when she realized that being under 42 inches meant she wouldn't get to ride the big roller coasters. Secretly, I was totally relieved. :)

The whole point was to get away and spend time together.

And that we did.

And in the process, we made some great memories.

I love road trips!

our boy

2010-09-05T17:40:00.000-07:00

It was exactly 14 months ago when he was born.

14 quick, challenging, hectic, crazy, wonderful months.

In early July, we celebrated his first year. The big ONE.

It was a "Little Man" party. I really couldn't think of anything that suited him better.

He truly is everything boy. Climbing, exploring, growling, wrestling, FUN.

The little guy who completed our family.

He loves to make us laugh until we cry but gets embarrassed at the attention. He's affectionate, would live outside if he could, a daredevil, smart, sweet and adored by everyone he meets.

Since the day he was born, his daddy and I have joked that all that kid wanted was a big, juicy steak.

He finally got it.

It was The Birthday Boy vs. The Steak Cake.

Guess who won! :)

We literally had to hose him down after it had been destroyed.

It was a joyful day filled with people we love... and unbelievably good food, thanks to my soon-to-be-in-culinary-school sister.

I've said it before, but this child gives us so much to celebrate. He and his sister are the children that Mike and I dreamed of.

Happy Birthday, big boy! We love you!

pizza party

2010-08-14T17:14:00.000-07:00

Another wild and crazy Friday night at our house.

Pizza and a movie. The big time. She chose "Wall-e."

She's been extra snuggly, worried about our boy, who is still getting over an ear infection that literally had him screaming for days and bleeding from his right ear. Poor baby. Stinkin non-working tubes.

She was just a tad annoyed that her brother was more interested in pulling around his little wagon instead of watching along with her.... "Jack, I CAN'T HEAR!!!!!!!!!!!"

It's funny how quickly her eye rolls turn into laughing fits, though. Her goofball baby brother cracks her up.

Since the weekdays pull us in such different directions, it was just so nice to just be home, together, relaxing in our comfy stuff.

I love a good pizza party.

little sparklers

2010-08-04T17:09:00.000-07:00

It only took me a month....

Better late than never, right?!

It's just been that kind of summer, really.

So.

The 4th. Jack's birthday eve at our house.

Fireworks will forever equal a flashback of labor for me.

My little firecrackers slept through their daddy's entire pyrotechnics extravaganza.

I really have no idea how.... at several points, I ran to hit the deck and take cover.

Mike and my brother-in-law take that stuff seriously. Harry Potters 1 & 2. They even ran out to buy a second round "big finale."

All of our neighbors were outside in lawn chairs putting on their own shows, watching ours, and egging on the boys. Hysterical.

And with that....BAM! Our baby boy was one.

the boys

2010-07-28T20:31:00.000-07:00

After almost a year of total mama devotion, he is ALL about Dada these days.

Well, Dada and pigs... he squishes up his nose just like this and snorts on command.

When these two play, they play rough. It is squealy, laughing, throwing him up in the air, goofy fun.

At times, it makes my heart stop... but mostly it just makes me laugh because he loves it and so does Mike.

And for the wild and crazy guys that they are, I love them.

bad case of the mondays

2010-07-27T20:18:00.000-07:00

A morning full of this much fun should definitely followed by something extra sweet.

And it was. In fact, it was only the promise of a red velvet cupcake at our favorite downtown lunch spot (thank you, Sandra) that got them out of there.

Unfortunately, when we left, it all turned sour when this happened to my 2-week-old (new) car:

And with that, although incredibly thankful for our safety, the Mondays have totally stuck with me through Tuesday.

Is it the weekend yet?

diva shoe shopping

2010-07-25T16:24:00.000-07:00

My 3-year-old fashionista, shopping with her Auntie Kris....

Lord help me.

not party pictures :P

2010-07-10T20:59:00.000-07:00

Just a quick catch up.... a ridiculous amount of random pictures to share.

Many hot mornings spent at the splash park with friends.

The much anticipated arrival of the carousel at our local mall.

Hanging out with the babies of one of my high school bffs. So, so fun to see them all together!

Spoiled by grandma once again at American Girl Place.... this time Taryn went to the doll hair salon.

Hamming it up with ballet buds.

Meeting the star of one of our favorite books. Jack wanted no part of this. I kind of don't blame him.

A fun trip to the Dallas World Aquarium with Nana and Grandpa. SO cool!

Swim lessons that started out ugly but have quickly paid off. So proud of her.

A little boy with waaaaaaaaay too much speed and not enough fear.

Pizza, train rides and Jack's first game of skeeball. He has skills.

And finally, total and complete pony love. She wants one to live in our backyard.

I warned you... random.

My laptop has been collecting dust when I'm not working, which I think is a very good thing. I like it like this... being outside and extra busy, spending time with good friends and family. Isn't that what summertime is all about?

i can do anything good.

2010-07-09T20:13:00.000-07:00

I'm convinced that this child and Lily are distant relatives. I dare you not to smile.

Love.

We all need a little bit of her in us, I think.

one

2010-07-05T09:25:00.001-07:00

Check out this thoughtful, sweet gift from my friend, Lyndsay.

walking chunkalicious.

2010-06-28T15:58:00.000-07:00

getaway

2010-06-25T19:32:00.000-07:00

Mike's parents were in town, so we headed up north for a little pre-1st birthday celebration. If it isn't obvious, the kids had a blast. We can't wait to go back!

everything

2010-06-20T14:18:00.000-07:00

I was feeling extra frustrated with him when he stood in front of me, laughed, looked me straight in the eyes and said You and our kids are my whole world. Everything I do, I do for our family. And with that, I remembered just how lucky I am. It is, my babies, exactly why you are so very blessed to call him your daddy.

Happy Father's Day, Mike. Jack, Lil and I love and appreciate you so much!

free show

2010-06-15T10:04:00.000-07:00

We spent a couple of weeks up in Dallas helping my family get my grandmother's home ready to be put on the market.... not the most exciting scenario for 2 young kiddos, so they got pretty creative.

Here is Lil giving us a dance recital recap and explaining to her auntie how tornadoes work. Apparently, they get really dangerous when they're full of knives. Yeah. Some older neighbor kids put that one in her head. Nice.

Tornadoes! from Kristin Hillery on Vimeo.

And Jack left his walker at home, so he just went ahead and used this one:

Old Man Baby from Kristin Hillery on Vimeo.

And then there is this. I swear I don't encourage her. She and Jack love this song. He stirs the bowl while she sings along to the "Glee" version.

Lily Gaga from Kristin Hillery on Vimeo.

I swear I don't encourage her.

They're entertaining, huh? :)

the countdown to one

2010-06-08T19:21:00.001-07:00

Lover of all things bread. Almost a walker (he is pushing off and taking 3 steps with his arms outstretched, Frankenstein style before crashing). Master of the squinty nosed, squishy faced, toothy, goofball smile. Thinks that pigs are hilarious and practices snorting.

Can and will push anything that moves. Squeals when we swing together on the hammock. Continues to have the world's most contagious laugh. Into everything he shouldn't be. His daddy's mini-me. His mama's boy.... although he sure is excited to see "Dada" these days.

Oh so very feisty. He has just started saying "Nah nah nah nah naaaaah" when he doesn't want to do something. Uh oh. Loves to dance and does so on command. He does a mean "stir the bowl." Thinks that sneezes are hysterical.

His sister's biggest fan. Wants whatever she has. Friendly when people are at a distance and says "Hiya!" When they come close, he hides his face. We spent the last 2 weeks with my mom and he instantly started calling her "ya ya." Still only has 2 teeth.

Always has at least one big bruise... at the moment, on his forehead. Has had more bloody injuries in the last 2 weeks than Lily ever has. Intense. Wants to eat the minute he wakes up in the morning. Hates his car seat or anything else that involves straps. Or clothes. Or diaper changes.

Refuses to leave his sippy cup on the table. Laughs when it crashes on the ground and says "ah dah" while doing the sign for all done.

Needed a haircut desperately and finally got one.

We walked in with a baby and left with a little boy.

And now, the party planning begins!

what a difference a (school) year makes

2010-05-19T17:12:00.000-07:00

Eight months ago, I was balancing a newborn on one arm and a baby faced girl on the other.

Man, how quickly things change.

Yes, she is incredibly taller.... but she has grown in so many different ways.

On this last day of school, she played "beauty shop" with her best school friend, Ella, was bitten on the finger by her arch enemy/ love, Danny, learned a new song in music class and by the time I came to pick her up, she had already blabbed to each of her teachers what she had picked out for them as thank you gifts. Such a character, that girl.

School has been so amazing for her... I love that kids this young can form such strong bonds with each other. We have made some great friends in this experience.

And today, while she graduated from her two-year-old class, my dad, her Pop, officially graduated from college. She video chatted with him once she got home and excitedly asked him "are you done TOO?" She told me later that she is proud of him. I am too... of both of them.

Hello, summer!

winding down

2010-05-12T17:19:00.001-07:00

I spent the morning at Lily's preschool helping out with their annual water day, celebrating the end of the school year. I remember seeing it on the schedule back in September, thinking it was soooooo far off... and here we are.

Of course, this means that we have only one more week til summer...

I'm looking forward to Jack's first trip to the pool, flip flops, the smell of sunscreen, bbqs, mornings at the splash park, Schlitterbahn, lounging on beach towels, watching my boy take his first steps, swings in the hammock, fro-yo runs, swim lessons, messy projects, camp-outs (we might get brave enough to try this year... or we may stick to our backyard :)), sunflowers and exploring new places together.

Can't wait.

my day

2010-05-09T19:14:00.000-07:00

Lazy morning, secret projects, gospel brunch, dancing to live music, exploring together, surprises, handmade cards, flowers, fresh air and berry cool... my sweet family made me feel so loved and appreciated today. It was the best Mama's Day ever.

to my mom

2010-05-09T05:07:00.000-07:00

It wasn't always this way.
There were many years... mostly when I was a teenager... that I clashed 98% of the time with her.
Even while I was in college, we weren't all that close.
But then something happened, and she became one of my best friends.
I think it's because I finally appreciated her concern for me. Valued it.
I get where she was coming from even so much more now.

I'm sorry that it took me so long, mom!
Remind me of all of this when Lily is a teenager, okay? :)

Mom,

You are the most thoughtful person I know.
* You remember and acknowledge every important (and even not-so-important) date and always make people feel special because of that.That is something I really aspire to.... and to have a house as clean as you have always managed. :)
* You have amazing, longtime friendships and are so very loved.
* You look fantastic.
* You make me a better mom.
* You help me with the projects that no one else wants to take on... and you make sure they get finished.
* You make me stronger. The morning that I had Jack, when I looked at you terrified and told you what was happening, you held my hand, rubbed my forehead and (even though I know you were also terrified) said confidently "You can do this."
* You continue to teach me about the joy of creativity and the value of knowing how to do things on your own.

* You have been a cheerleader of my kids (and me)from the minute you found out I was pregnant. Thank you for always being so encouraging and for loving them so deeply. I love when you say "they are my heart." I know that's true. You're an amazing grandma.
* You visit often but are always so respectful not to overstep.... you manage to give us space while you're here and spoil the kids with attention and love, and you are so much help. You remind Mike and I to laugh more. You come at the times when you're really needed. I love your visits.

* You put so much thought into the packages you send Jack and Lily. Lily opens them and squeals "How did she know??!!" You just do.
* You listen to me like no one else does.
* We have so much fun together.

Thank you for being the wonderful, amazing mom that you are.
I love you!
Wish that we could be together today to celebrate.

Happy Mother's Day!

the mama tea

2010-05-07T16:17:00.000-07:00

Making the decision to have a child--it's momentous.
It is to decide forever to
have your heart go walking around
outside your body. - Elizabeth Stone

Jack and I had a lovely surprise when we went to pick up Lil from preschool this week.

Someone was thrilled to see his sister. She and her school best bud, "the OTHER Lily," kept yelling "HEY! Look at my baby!"

She and the rest of the class were so excited to treat all of the moms to a "fancy tea."

They each brought us plates of goodies and cups of tea (iced and sweet, of course, because we live in Texas). Jack was all over it.

Since I spent years helping kids make gifts like these I've been looking forward to receiving them for the longest time. They are so sweet, made with so much love and I cherish them.

All week, I've been thinking about this song. I've been singing it to Lily and Jack since before they were born and it always makes them both smile.

They didn't have you where I come from
Never knew the best was yet to come
Life began when I saw your face
And I hear your laugh like a serenade

How long do you want to be loved
Is forever enough, is forever enough
How long do you want to be loved
Is forever enough
Cause I'm never, never giving you up

Above everything, I always wanted to be a mom. I am so thankful to be living the life that I imagined...

cinco de jack

2010-05-05T08:28:00.000-07:00

He is 10 months old today. I know I say this every month, but this time I'm really serious: please make him stop.

My boy is still deliciously squishy. And quite stuffy, too. His nose is driving him crazy. I think he's about to get a few more teeth... the 2 he has are not sufficient in helping him to eat that steak we've been promising.

Nothing is safe in our house. Nothing. We have makeshift barriers everywhere. He is particularly interested in shoestrings, cords, drawers, wires and outlets. It totally freaks me out.

He still adores his sister, but she is easily frustrated by him and how he "gets in my stuff." When she takes something away from him, he lets us know. He's pretty feisty.

He talks to Mickey Mouse. Loves baths. Hates clothes. Knows instinctively how to make a car noise and pushes things across the room while making said noise. Loves to eat. Eats pretty much everything we do right now. Has a major fondness for sweet potato bites. And pizza crust.

And at the risk of totally jinxing things.... he has become a fan of sleep again, but not without effort. Mike and I committed to one full week of working on his sleep and it has totally paid off. We now have 2 children sleeping all night and the evenings are ours again. Fabulous doesn't even describe it. We're all happier and healthier. I don't miss this scene at all:

We've started planning his "big" party but he'll have a few with family before that happens.... lots of visitors in the next month or so. We are all excited.

He gives us so much to celebrate.

chillin

2010-05-04T19:32:00.000-07:00

We needed a day to relax around here.

And so, we did.

And we liked it.

wild woman

2010-05-03T17:25:00.000-07:00

This child.

She is a mess. A big one.

She flew through the kitchen this afternoon with a wooden train whistle in her hand, announcing that she was off to "scare away some pesky birds!"

She may or may not have heard this from me... those stinkin' birds have infiltrated our very high front porch overhang and refuse to go away. It's driving me batty.

Anyway...

not even 2 minutes later I hear a crash against our glass storm door and a very loud scream.... I fly around the corner and find blood gushing out of her mouth. She tells me that her tooth feels "wiggly." I check and it is.

According to her dentist, this should resolve itself (really?). I however, am in need of a very long bath now that she and her brother are in bed. A margarita might be good too.

Whew. I love that girl but she sure does wear me out.

the standard

2010-05-02T11:50:00.000-07:00

When we met, I considered her a kid....because I was a whopping 4 years older and wiser. I was also in charge of her, since she was one of the kids at the summer camp where I worked. I was 21 and very important. :)

A year or so passed and she was suddenly my neighbor, living on a little island off of San Diego and working as an assistant in my office. We had nothing in common and I won't claim to even know how it ever happened, but somewhere along the way we became family.

Over a decade later her friendship continues to be extraordinary. It is without competition or jealousy. It is about the kind of honesty that sometimes stings but ends up being appreciated later. She is the most real person I know and makes me laugh until I cry. We just go waaaaaaaay back and she has been there for me in the good, bad and (very) ugly.

I can only hope that my kids are lucky enough to have the same type of friendships in their lives. Ours sets the standard high.

Love you, Kace. Thanks for a wonderful weekend!

just us girls

2010-04-24T19:57:00.000-07:00

So nice to spend some time alone together. No boys allowed.

We have been planning this day ever since the flyer showed up in our mailbox and Lily said "How did they know that I LOVE DISNEY?!!!

It's true. She does. She asks us at least once a day if we'll take her back to Disney World.

I can't wait until I can tell her yes, because there is something so delightful and sweet about the time when a child truly believes in the magic of all of this stuff.

I know that it won't last for long, but for now she really, really does believe.... and I loved seeing her face light up today because of it.

brown thumb no more

2010-04-21T19:46:00.001-07:00

I won't pretend that I know a thing about gardening. In fact, my husband teases that this is the place where plants are brought to die. Nice, huh?

This project started back in February, when the weather was still cold and rainy. Lily wants to know how everything works right now, including plants. "Mama, what do they eat? Why do they need water? How does the sun help? What do leaves do? Why do they change colors?"

We saved glass pasta sauce and baby food jars, plastic orange juice containers and anything else that would give her a visual of what happens down in that dirt.

We planted green beans, tomatoes, carrots and all kinds of herbs. They had a temporary home on our dining room table and the sprouts came up fast. Lily spent each morning watering "our babies," exclaiming over how much they had grown, singing to them and asking questions about their roots (I totally had to Google a few times).

As soon as we were sure that the warm weather was here to stay, we transferred them outside. Winter was so long and dreary.... it's so nice to be soaking up sunshine now!

She has taken this very seriously and is just fascinated by it all. I love her enthusiasm. She would be shocked to learn that not everyone gardens in a tutu.

Jack has sampled more dirt than I'd like to think about. I'm fairly certain it won't be the last time.

We now look out our kitchen window to a happy, green, growing garden... and I really want to attempt a bean teepee next. Is that cool or what? I'm so doing it.

I really hope that gardening becomes second nature to all of us. It's been such a fun way to spend time together and we're excited about the end result. I'm already dreaming of summertime salsa. YUM.

Have a wonderful Earth Day, everyone!

the lily show

2010-04-12T15:41:00.000-07:00

The girl loves all things princess... these days, mainly Tiana and Cinderella. She loves singing. Dancing. Twirling. Dressing up.

And today... in between trips downstairs to tackle the laundry, I caught her in the act.

I pretty much love everything about having a girly girl.

thank you, mother nature

2010-04-10T12:33:00.000-07:00

It is impossible to not feel happy when driving around Austin right now.

Scenes like this one are everywhere. Mother Nature has put on a serious show.

It makes me smile every time I see people pulled over on the side of the road, snapping pictures of their kiddos.

Lily wants nothing to do with bluebonnets this year. She says that they're itchy-- and they are. I'm not pushing it, but I'm hoping that my sister will win her over. I hate not having a shot to compare to last year's.

Thank goodness for the Squish and that basket. He babbled away while touching and smelling them, picked one up, stuck it in his mouth and spit it back out--- it was the full bluebonnet experience.

I think this officially makes him a Texan.

3/4 big boy

2010-04-05T13:56:00.000-07:00

You are 9 months old today, and for me, that is way too close to 1.

You are so curious. Smart. FUNNY.

You love to be around people but sometimes pretend to be shy. You clap and wave all the time. When you don't get a response from the person you're waving at, you make sure that they hear you.

You squeal at the sight of your sister after she has left the room and are relentless in following her around and wanting to do whatever she is doing.

You are obsessed with the vacuum. It's out a lot these days since you pick up and try to eat the tiniest things you find on the floor. You follow me around while I clean and get upset when I won't let you ride it. Goofball.

You are a mover... up the stairs, from one room to another... you are cruising around our house at a speed that continually makes me a nervous wreck. I still want that helmet.

Your laugh is contagious. You laugh so easily and with your whole little body. You often laugh so hard that you have to stop and catch your breath. It makes ME laugh.

You are toothless no more. Boy oh boy have we had a rough few weeks.... hardly any sleep and a ton of fussing... your face is changing so quickly.

You are still nursing and I am so proud that we've made it this far. You are ALL about eating finger foods on your own, though. You could eat your weight (20lbs, 14oz and 29in tall) in puffs.

You do not like to sleep. Lately, I'm lucky if you take 2 naps a day, and those are often only 30 minutes. The nights are very long. I remind myself a lot that this will not last forever.

You're LOUD. Dadadadada is your favorite at the moment, with Lala a close second. You identify us when asked and often call out to Daddy and Lily (Lala) by name. I mostly only hear mama when you wake up at night or when you're upset. Stinker.

You snuggle, hug and I swear that you've started giving slobbery kisses. You're a lover.

So much has changed in you these last few months but one thing that we have known from the beginning remains the same:

You have such a good heart, my sweet Jack.

Love you.

life is egg-celent

2010-04-04T12:33:00.000-07:00

We've found a constant in having two young children.... even the grandest of plans can and will come undone in an instant.

Long planned egg hunts will be rescheduled to the front lawn when babies (and their parents) get cranky and overtired, skinned elbows will turn even the best brunch into a stressful one, a visit to church will be especially challenging when neither child is willing to stop playing with goodies from the Easter Bunny and even the fanciest dress isn't so fancy once it has been used as a handkerchief.

What would life be without them? I can't even imagine... and with that, I choose to savor the good moments instead of dwelling on the bad.

Tie dyed hands from coloring eggs, following the bunny's trail to the much anticipated basket, squealing over fancy gloves and a half eaten carrot, stopping the car to twirl and crawl through a field of spring wildflowers.... this is what I hope they'll look back on and remember fondly.

It's my prayer today that through the ups and down, we continue to look at our children with the love and respect that they teach us everyday... to not let stress or negativity trickle down to them.... to make the most of our time with them so that they learn to really embrace life and all that it offers.

"Easter spells out beauty, the rare beauty of new life." ~S.D. Gordon

Although this life may not be picture perfect, it is a gift and we are so amazingly blessed.

Wishing you a very Happy Easter!

pinkalicious

2010-04-02T18:55:00.000-07:00

I've been meaning to post these for weeks and don't know how I've managed to forget....

she STILL has remnants of that stuff in her hair.

Most kids were walking around the carnival sporting striped and polka dotted heads. Not her. She handed over her tickets and said "Make me PINK!"

It was my little pink junky's wish come true.

holy cow

2010-03-30T13:39:00.000-07:00

Because we live in Texas, we do things like ride horses to the grocery store and say "yeeeeehaw."

Okay, not really... but there are a few friends of ours in California who think we live that way.

We don't. I swear. Our kids are pretty citified... sometimes I think maybe even too much so.

Which is why when something like the Austin Rodeo happens, we jump on the chance for them to get a glimpse of life on the other side.

Lil was enthralled by the dairy farmer. She can't drink cow's milk, and was quick to ask "Where do they keep the soy cows?" HA.

"Mama, is this a DRAMA llama?" She adores those books. She got right in there with the animals and did fine until they started crowding her. I didn't blame her for bolting.

Jack and I watched from the outside. He taunted the goats with his puffs. Stinker.

And Lily asked Mike the question he always knew was coming: "Daddy, can I get a pony?"

It was hot, so we eventually left to check out the carnival side of the rodeo, stopping along the way to get a snack. In a place with every junk food imaginable, Lily had no interest. She wanted bread.

Bread? I love that weirdo.

We got drinks instead and stopped to feed Jack, who needed a sweet potato fix.

Poor lil man was miserable with teething, so he and I found a shady spot and watched Mike and Lil head for the rides.

Her squeals could be heard from miles away.

Heights freak me out but our girl was unfazed. She actually wanted to go on the roller coaster that continually spins upside down in a loop. No way, bud.

It was a wonderful day... so wonderful, in fact, that Lil passed out at 5:30 that night and didn't wake up until the following morning. Jack was out shortly after...

Mike and I had the entire evening to ourselves. Pretty awesome. Thank you, rodeo! :)

fairy godbrother

2010-03-26T06:40:00.001-07:00

My sweet boy, you may not believe me later, but you were totally a willing participant and kept those pink, sparkly wings on for longer than I think you'd ever like to admit.

She is currently working on training you to wave a wand and say "bibbity, bobbity, BOO!"

This shot may happen to reappear sometime in your mid-teens. Quite possibly when a girlfriend is around. Completely by accident, of course.

my first baby

2010-03-25T20:07:00.000-07:00

... is looking way too much like a little girl these days.

the warm and fuzzies?

2010-03-24T01:07:00.000-07:00

Lily has always been a friendly kid... almost overly so. Do you know that we have not even one Santa/ Easter Bunny/ Disney character freak out shot for her?

The only time she has gotten close to being spooked was at her school breakfast with Santa. When we asked her why she had been upset, she replied "because he was wearing glasses and that was not right." Okay, Miss Fashionista.

::plops herself on his lap:: "Hi, Easter Bunny! I'm Lily Kate Vaughn... but you knew that. Do you like my dress?"

Being that Jack is a friendly kid too, we figured his experience would be the same. In fact, when he first sat down, he was so distracted by Grandma that he didn't even notice whose lap he had been placed on.

But then, he looked up and wanted OFF.

This was more than enough for his sister. She hopped down, more concerned that such behavior would affect the number of eggs in her Easter basket.

And this poor guy was left to fend for himself.

As my mom pointed out when we left, "he's just not a fan of stuffed animals."

Very true.

Better luck next year. :)

mama, is it...

2010-03-23T04:42:00.001-07:00

still happy hour?

Lily will usually croak that question with one eye open as she wakes from her nap.

Bed head, front seat, blue slushy, crazy outfits, sleepy eyes and barefoot.... it's our favorite post naptime treat and sick day destination.

the zoo, zoo, zoo

2010-03-18T18:59:00.000-07:00

There was no school for Lil on Wednesday since it's Spring Break around here, so we got decked out in green and headed out early.

It was a good plan, except that we forgot that there were a zillion other kids who were also not in school.... and pretty much all of them were at the zoo too.

The crowds didn't ruin our day, though. Lil and Jack are in Grandma heaven. I'm pretty happy to have her here too, especially since Mike has been out of town.

While we were there, we discovered that Lily does a mean elephant impression.

Pretty impressive, huh? :)

She was most excited about the aquarium.

Jack was mesmerized by all of the fish too. From the moment that we walked into the exhibit, he squealed and squeaked. People were cracking up.

It was his first official trip to the zoo and we loved watching his reaction to all of the animals. The kid doesn't miss a thing. He is such a riot.

Being there together was so much fun.

This morning as we looked over our snapshots from the trip, Lily saw this one and said "I make one beaaaaaaaautiful butterfly!"

I'm extremely concerned about her self esteem. :)

Hello, lovely Spring! Please stick around for awhile.

happy st. patty's day!

2010-03-17T06:31:00.000-07:00

Sending a little luck o' the Irish your way!

how bout a round of applause

2010-03-09T10:34:00.000-08:00

Our sweet eight-month-old (8 months! I don't want to talk about it.) now has ear tubes. He made surgery seem easy yesterday. We hope that this will be the beginning of the end to any more ear infections.

He started clapping over a week ago and as you can tell, he is so over us asking him to show off his skills. I can't help it, though. It's so fun to see him getting more communicative.

We realized over the weekend that he's started to sign "more" too. I love how quickly signing comes together once it starts. It'll be interesting to see what he's been thinking about us all this time....

happy feet

2010-03-04T11:45:00.000-08:00

Her first day at ballet, tap and tumbling was a success.

I love the way that her belly button is sticking out through her leotard. She makes me laugh. Her brother, too.... he couldn't get enough of her tapping around on our tile all morning. He was hysterical with laughter. So funny.

At the end of class, she was so proud to show off her first position "pizza slice." My big girl. I'm thankful and amazed at how far she has come in these last six months.