I have had so many everyday things to post about the past two months but I like to keep things in chronological order (I don't know if that is more for me or more for the kids when they look back on their journeys, but that's what I like to do). On October 9th, Mitch, our best friend/brother/neighbor died in a plane crash. The news was shocking! The past 9 weeks have been some of the hardest in our lives! I didn't know how to put into words what this loss means to all of us (Bryan, myself, Keira & Isaac) so I just didn't write about it, but I need to write something to acknowledge what an amazing person Mitch is and share his philosophy on life...live each day to the fullest, have fun and do what you love! Mitch had an incredible impact on our lives and will NEVER be forgotten!
Here is the email I sent out asking for prayers right after Mitch died. For those of you that didn't see it, it will give you a little background...
Most of you have heard Bryan and I talk about our neighbors, our best friends, Mitch & Michelle. We both moved into our houses at the same time back in 2003 and were instant friends! Keira is 9 months older than Addison and Isaac is 8 months older than Matthew. How perfect that we both had girls first and then boys. Keira & Addison became instant best friends just like their parents and I'm sure once the boys are a little older, they too will be best friends. The 4 of us had so many plans and dreams to do together with the our families. Unfortunately, all of the plans and dreams will have to be done without Mitch.
Mitch died Friday afternoon in a plane crash. He was an excellent pilot and loved flying. (Bryan has flown with him several times and he even took my dad on a flight to Sedona this past May) This is obviously an unexpected tragedy and shock to all of us! I am doing my best to hold it together (although sometimes I feel like I am going to lose it) so I can help Michelle through this extremely difficult time, but Bryan lost his best friend and is having a hard time processing this news.
I waited to tell Keira until Michelle had talked to Addison. Both girls found out yesterday afternoon. Michelle told Addison with her family surrounding her and I told Keira shortly after she woke up from her nap yesterday. Neither of the girls know the details surrounding his death, just that he had an accident. They are so young, we don't want them to be traumatized by plane flights. I mention this to you only because Keira may talk about Uncle Mitch (which we have encouraged her to do) but she has also has questions like "why did he have an accident? why is his body broken?" For now, I am telling her, "I don't know all the details, but Uncle Mitch is in Heaven with Grandma Eileen and he is watching over you." She has told me a few times "I miss Uncle Mitch" and she has been very sensitive and a little clingy since she heard the news (which of course is to be expected).
Please pray for our family, for Michelle, Addison and Matthew and for all of Mitch's family & friends that love and miss him.
Here are the opening remarks I read at his Celebration of Life...
Good afternoon, welcome and thank you all for coming. Or as Mitch would have said “WHAT UP DOG?” I’m Christine Appleton and my family has been lucky enough to live right next to Mitch & Michelle and have become best friends and family with them.
This Celebration of Life is about doing our best to honor a man who in one way or another had a HUGE impact on so many people. High School friends have planned another Celebration in honor of Mitch tonight in California. What a perfect way to pay tribute to an amazing person! You know Mitch loves the fact that he is having 2 parties in one night! And apparently there is one more in California tomorrow as well.
This service was intentionally called a “Celebration of Life” as opposed to a memorial, because Michelle and the rest of Mitchel’s family wanted to keep this event as True to Mitch as they could. We are sitting in an outdoor Amphitheater because Mitch loved to be outside and loved to play at the park with Addison & Matthew. All of the poems and songs have been selected because they were either one of Mitch’s favorite or the lyrics express how Mitch lived his life. A small group of family & friends met with the pastor a few nights ago so he could learn a little more about Mitch. It was close to 2 hours of stories and laughter that totally (another Mitchism) could have continued for days. Michelle even said “I want Friday to be just like that.”
While of course we are all grieving and in shock about why we lost someone who had so much more to offer the world, the family wants today’s focus to NOT be on what was lost but on what was gained by knowing Mitch. We hope you will help us remember Mitch by sharing your memories later in the service.
In just a few minutes you will meet Pastor Eric, after spending time with him this week, I think all of us were confident that he was the right person to help us with today's celebration. Although Eric never had the joy of meeting Mitch, I know if he had, they would have hit it off......BBQ's and play dates would have ensued!
Just one more special person that Mitch has brought into his circle of friends....It makes me so happy to know that this group of amazing people will continue to grow!
But before we get to Pastor Eric, I would like to introduce Vaughn Shackleford & Randy Martin, two people that have been in Mitch's circle of friends since the beginning. Vaughn, Randy and Mitch grew up together and were like brothers...having adventures and playing sports, which is why they are the perfect pair to read a poem titled "Adrenaline Junkie".
Although 9 weeks have passed, there are moments where it feels like it has only been a few days since we lost him and there are other moments where it feels like it's been years since we last saw his beautiful smile and heard his laugh and famous sayings. We saw Mitch (& Michelle and the kids) probably 5 days/week and sometimes twice in one day. Mitch & I would take the kids to the park in the morning and then we'd meet for dinner that same night. The kids are starting to adjust to not having Uncle Mitch around but it's not been an easy adjustment. Even Isaac at 21 months knows Uncle Mitch is not with us but he answers questions about him and points him out in pictures. The kids still ask about him and talk about him and all the fun things we did and the funny things he said like "snap-a-lap-a-ding-dong". We still go to Uncle Mitch & Aunt Michelle's house. He will forever be a part of their lives and I am happy they got the chance to know him and hope they will hold on to their memories with him!
As for Bryan & I...we are also trying to adjust to life without Mitch. I use to joke that Bryan & Mitch were "brothers from another mother" because they were so much alike! While it hurts to think about all the things we won't be able to do with Mitch (like our family trips to Walt Disney World, hiking & camping, Hawaii etc) we try to focus on what we did get to do with Mitch, from the little things (meals we shared, laughs we had, trips with the kids to the waterpark/ music in may/ the park, swimming at their house and the list goes on) to the big things (road trip to California-in the same car, with 4 adults and 4 kids age 3 and younger-so we could to to Disneyland, and our road trip to the snow-again in the same car, but the boys were both under 1...oh the memories will last forever.
We still see Michelle and the kids at least 5 times a week, that will never change! They are our family. Keira even said one day in the car "Daddy and Uncle Mitch are brothers" and I told her "they are like brothers, you have to have the same mom to be brothers" and she said "oh, Isaac and Matthew are like brothers and Addison and me are like sisters and you and Aunt Michelle are 'dark sisters'." When I asked her why we were 'dark sisters' she said "because you both have darker hair." That girl cracks me up!
Mitch, we love you, we miss you, we thank you for your friendship/the laughs/the memories. It was never goodbye, but until we meet again!!
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
I'm part of the crew
It's official, I started my first day at Trader Joe's last night, 5-11pm...it was weird to be back at work but I think I will enjoy having a few hours to interact with random people and getting to know some of my co-workers. Eventually I think I will like the casual dress code including Hawaiian t-shirts, but last night I wore one of Bryan's since mine weren't in yet and I felt slightly androgynous. My shorts were baggy in the waist (thanks Michelle, it must be from the running) and then I had on his shirt it was not a cute look, but what can you do? I still had a grandpa say if I helped him to his car he would take me home and then decided his wife wouldn't appreciate that :o) Gotta love the old men. He was a nice guy (not creepy).
When I talked to Keira this morning and asked her if she had fun with daddy she said, "We watched 2 movies. 2 long movies." She was so excited. I'm sure she was thinking I hope we get to do this every night that mommy goes to work :o) While my first instinct was to be annoyed I have to defend my husband. Bryan was not feeling well so I put on "The Little Mermaid" when I left to keep the kids occupied and give him some quiet time (I think he napped on the floor), then I guess they ate dinner and then watched "Mary Poppins" before going to bed. Oh, the life of a child!
When I talked to Keira this morning and asked her if she had fun with daddy she said, "We watched 2 movies. 2 long movies." She was so excited. I'm sure she was thinking I hope we get to do this every night that mommy goes to work :o) While my first instinct was to be annoyed I have to defend my husband. Bryan was not feeling well so I put on "The Little Mermaid" when I left to keep the kids occupied and give him some quiet time (I think he napped on the floor), then I guess they ate dinner and then watched "Mary Poppins" before going to bed. Oh, the life of a child!
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Christmas Cards
Oh yes, you read that right! Keira found the Christmas cards in the closet today and said "look, let's send them to people." So I started filling them out so we should be ready to go by Thanksgiving weekend! Don't worry, we'll take a photo when it gets a little closer so the picture isn't too outdated and send a photo as well. Who knew a 3 1/2 year old could be so inspiring when it comes to Christmas cards. Thanks Keira!
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Father.Son.HolySpirit.Amen.TheEnd.
That is how Keira has been ending her prayers. I swear one of these nights I am going to sneak the video recorder in her room and get her prayers on tape so I can remember the things she prayed about as an almost 4 year old. It seriously is the cutest thing ever!
It was a rough day in the sibling rivalry department and I love that tonight, for the first time, she said "please help me and Isaac to be good and nice and no grabbing things from each other." Amen sister!
Lots more updates to come including Eileen's Dream Team 2009 update and photos...
Here's our newest news...(NO I'M NOT PREGNANT) I start working at Trader Joe's on Oct. 6th so we'll see how all that plays out :o) Bryan is going to work morning shifts and I'm going to work night shifts. Just 3 nights/week until it gets closer to the holidays and then 5 nights/week. When I told Keira one night while we were laying in her bed talking, she said "I want to work at Trader Joe's too! I know how to push their little carts and I can work the register." When I told her she was too young to be working she said "Who's going to stay with me and Isaac? We can't be here by ourselves!" I'm excited and sad at the same time. I hope we all adjust quickly and with little tears (from kids and parents...ha)
It was a rough day in the sibling rivalry department and I love that tonight, for the first time, she said "please help me and Isaac to be good and nice and no grabbing things from each other." Amen sister!
Lots more updates to come including Eileen's Dream Team 2009 update and photos...
Here's our newest news...(NO I'M NOT PREGNANT) I start working at Trader Joe's on Oct. 6th so we'll see how all that plays out :o) Bryan is going to work morning shifts and I'm going to work night shifts. Just 3 nights/week until it gets closer to the holidays and then 5 nights/week. When I told Keira one night while we were laying in her bed talking, she said "I want to work at Trader Joe's too! I know how to push their little carts and I can work the register." When I told her she was too young to be working she said "Who's going to stay with me and Isaac? We can't be here by ourselves!" I'm excited and sad at the same time. I hope we all adjust quickly and with little tears (from kids and parents...ha)
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Ovarian Cancer~Please Support the Cause!
We will once again be participating in the Ovarian Cancer Run/Walk on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2009. Here is the LINK my dad set up for Eileen's Dream Team. Any donation would be greatly appreciated, even $5 will help us reach our goal and could one day save the life of someone you know! Thanks and God Bless!
Our family at the Ovarian Cancer Walk 2008. Keira 2 1/2 years, Isaac 8 months.
Isaac with great grandma and great grandpa Murvin (My mom's parents~going strong in their 80s)
Our family at the Ovarian Cancer Walk 2008. Keira 2 1/2 years, Isaac 8 months.
Isaac with great grandma and great grandpa Murvin (My mom's parents~going strong in their 80s)
Monday, August 17, 2009
Giggles in the dark
After baths and books I turn off the lights in Keira's room and both kids lay down so we can say prayers. Some nights they lay quietly, some nights they roll over on each other/steal blankets/annoy each other and then there are nights like tonight...they were giving hugs/laughing and having the best time. It was so sweet! I wish I had a tape recorder to capture the pure brother~sister love. It was a great way to end a crazy day.
A special thanks to my hubby who switched to night shifts a few weeks ago so I could get my LEAN classes up and running! The kids love having Bryan around during the day and Keira usually asks daddy to take her to school and mommy to pick her up. Thanks for your hard work babe! We love you!
A special thanks to my hubby who switched to night shifts a few weeks ago so I could get my LEAN classes up and running! The kids love having Bryan around during the day and Keira usually asks daddy to take her to school and mommy to pick her up. Thanks for your hard work babe! We love you!
Friday, August 14, 2009
"I said shut up"
Keira came in my room tonight when she should have been in her room going to bed and this was our conversation:
Keira: "Sorry mommy, I said shut up. I shouldn't have said that, that's not very nice."
Me: "Who did you say shut up to?"
Keira: "Me. I shouldn't be talking when I'm trying to sleep."
Me: "ok, let's just get back to bed."
I was cracking up inside. That girl will do anything to stay awake (including telling on herself) The conversation continued about misc. things as we walked up the hall. She is a funny one!
Keira: "Sorry mommy, I said shut up. I shouldn't have said that, that's not very nice."
Me: "Who did you say shut up to?"
Keira: "Me. I shouldn't be talking when I'm trying to sleep."
Me: "ok, let's just get back to bed."
I was cracking up inside. That girl will do anything to stay awake (including telling on herself) The conversation continued about misc. things as we walked up the hall. She is a funny one!
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Isaac & Chapstick
I laugh every time I watch this video and if Isaac watches it he cracks up at himself too and makes the same faces right back at himself.
Enjoy our little ham! Make sure your sound is on for his little laughs...
Enjoy our little ham! Make sure your sound is on for his little laughs...
Monday, August 10, 2009
Keira's First Day of School ~ 2009
Keira started another year of preschool today and was so excited. She picked out her outfit (including her fancy ruffle socks and which pair of tennis shoes). She started the day with a "Brainy Breakfast" of steel cut oats with blueberries & cinnamon, then I packed her Princess lunch box and she was ready to go. She decided she wanted daddy to drop her off and mommy to pick her up. Bryan said she did a great job this morning.
When I picked her up she was excited to show me all of her paintings and handprints and first day of school certificate. This will be her first year going three days a week ~ Monday, Wednesday, Friday from 8:30-11:45am. She is going to do great this year! Isaac is the one I am worried about. He is really going to miss his big sister (he cried this morning when she left, but I think it was because he wanted to go too.)
I'll try to keep the blog updated as special events or big projects happen at school.
Here is her picture from her 1st day of school. Bryan didn't like the location but I wanted to have her in front of her bedroom door so we could use the decor on the door to see how much she has grown this school year (I plan on taking a picture in the same spot on the last day of school)
I was shocked this is what she picked for her first day. I thought for sure she would pick out a dress...
Funny faces for mommy and twirling her ponytail
Her first day of school interview
When I picked her up she was excited to show me all of her paintings and handprints and first day of school certificate. This will be her first year going three days a week ~ Monday, Wednesday, Friday from 8:30-11:45am. She is going to do great this year! Isaac is the one I am worried about. He is really going to miss his big sister (he cried this morning when she left, but I think it was because he wanted to go too.)
I'll try to keep the blog updated as special events or big projects happen at school.
Here is her picture from her 1st day of school. Bryan didn't like the location but I wanted to have her in front of her bedroom door so we could use the decor on the door to see how much she has grown this school year (I plan on taking a picture in the same spot on the last day of school)
I was shocked this is what she picked for her first day. I thought for sure she would pick out a dress...
Funny faces for mommy and twirling her ponytail
Her first day of school interview
Keira's Swim Lessons~Summer '09
Well Keira took Level 1 swim lessons at the Anthem Community Center and did great the first week (no crying, playing with the other kids on the steps, and asking to go back) The 3rd class, they actually went off the diving boards. I was over in the water park with Isaac and Bryan came to get me. She had already done it once and did it one more time for mommy to see. Of course I didn't have the camera because I never thought they would do it the 3rd class...she didn't do it again so it's an image Bryan and I will have to remember.
She had 3 instructors~Mr. Craig (her favorite), Ms. Brittany, Ms. Kinley. One day we were walking away from the pool and Keira wanted to say goodbye to the teachers who were getting ready to start another lesson. She walked to the edge of the pool twirling her hair and said "bye Mr. Craig, thank you" while waving, then blew him a kiss. The 2 female instructors were cracking up and Bryan and I just started laughing because we weren't expecting it. When we got to the van, she asked "why was everyone laughing when I said bye?"
As the weeks went on, Keira became a little unsure of the whole process. She would get in position to do whatever they were asking her and as they would count to 3 her hands would suddenly wrap around the instructor's neck and the tears would start. I could hear her saying "step a little closer". It even got to the point that she was picky about who she would go out with. She would only go with Mr. Craig the last few sessions. He was really patient and did a good job!
Here are some photos from her last day of swim lessons.
Ms. Kinley, Keira and Ms. Brittany
At the waterpark the last day of class...
Her favorite (and I think her first crush) Mr. Craig
This video is more for Keira to watch, but feel free.
She had 3 instructors~Mr. Craig (her favorite), Ms. Brittany, Ms. Kinley. One day we were walking away from the pool and Keira wanted to say goodbye to the teachers who were getting ready to start another lesson. She walked to the edge of the pool twirling her hair and said "bye Mr. Craig, thank you" while waving, then blew him a kiss. The 2 female instructors were cracking up and Bryan and I just started laughing because we weren't expecting it. When we got to the van, she asked "why was everyone laughing when I said bye?"
As the weeks went on, Keira became a little unsure of the whole process. She would get in position to do whatever they were asking her and as they would count to 3 her hands would suddenly wrap around the instructor's neck and the tears would start. I could hear her saying "step a little closer". It even got to the point that she was picky about who she would go out with. She would only go with Mr. Craig the last few sessions. He was really patient and did a good job!
Here are some photos from her last day of swim lessons.
Ms. Kinley, Keira and Ms. Brittany
At the waterpark the last day of class...
Her favorite (and I think her first crush) Mr. Craig
This video is more for Keira to watch, but feel free.
Look Mom, I'm on TV
So I was contacted to help promote www.mamapedia.com and recruited 2 friends to help me. Here is the link if you want to see my 10 seconds of fame and Isaac playing on the computer in the middle of a live tv segment :o)
Look Dad, the play table you bought for the kids came in handy today too :o)
I wish Keira could have been here for it but today is her 1st day of school (more on that later)
Happy Monday!
Look Dad, the play table you bought for the kids came in handy today too :o)
I wish Keira could have been here for it but today is her 1st day of school (more on that later)
Happy Monday!
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Will you be my best friend?
Oh my gosh...Keira melts my heart! She drives me crazy sometimes but that girl has a heart of gold. Tonight we did our normal bedtime routine (bath, books with Isaac on her bed, lights out, prayers and quiet time-until she & Isaac start goofing around and then it's time for me to take him to his room) After I put Isaac in bed, I go back to her room to check on her and usually end up lying next to her for a few minutes.
Tonight when I went back in and laid down, she put her hand on my face and said "will you be my best friend forever?" My heart melted. What a sweet girl! We talked for a few minutes in the dark and then she decided we should play the "who can stay quiet the longest" game. Guess who won? NOT Keira. That girl will keep on talking just so she doesn't fall asleep. Too cute.
I love you Peach! Sweet Dreams!
Tonight when I went back in and laid down, she put her hand on my face and said "will you be my best friend forever?" My heart melted. What a sweet girl! We talked for a few minutes in the dark and then she decided we should play the "who can stay quiet the longest" game. Guess who won? NOT Keira. That girl will keep on talking just so she doesn't fall asleep. Too cute.
I love you Peach! Sweet Dreams!
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Starry Safari
Bryan had yesterday off, but I had a table at an open house event to attend in the morning for my L.E.A.N. classes and by the time I got home the kids were napping. When they woke up we decided to have dinner and head out to the Phoenix Zoo to surprise the kids. They have an evening event (to beat the heat) Friday and Saturday nights from 6-9pm with bounce houses (my kids' favorite), inflatable wet water slides, a splash pad and some of the animal exhibits were open. We missed most of the animals due to poor timing, but we saw the elephants (twice) which were a huge hit and learned something new...elephants are good swimmers! That impressed Keira.
Here are a few photos of our impromptu Appleton Adventure to the Phoenix Zoo. Enjoy!
Mommy & Keira with Sheena & Indu, the elephants. It was still 103 degrees at 7pm and her little 30lb body gets heavy after awhile :o)
Daddy & Isaac take a turn in front of the elephants.
Isaac going down the slide inside the Sesame Street Bounce House
Isaac was almost asleep in the stroller when we got to the splash pad and once he saw it, he had to get in. So he tossed his blankie and paci to the side and I changed his clothes. Keira was making sure Isaac wouldn't get run over by the crazy older kids. She is such a good big sister!
Going for a ride on the Endangered Species Carousel. Keira wanted to be on an elephant so Isaac didn't get a choice...I don't think he cared, he just likes getting to ride.
Ready to go home...
What a fun day! As soon as we walked out the gate, Keira was asking if we could go back to the Zoo!
Here are a few photos of our impromptu Appleton Adventure to the Phoenix Zoo. Enjoy!
Mommy & Keira with Sheena & Indu, the elephants. It was still 103 degrees at 7pm and her little 30lb body gets heavy after awhile :o)
Daddy & Isaac take a turn in front of the elephants.
Isaac going down the slide inside the Sesame Street Bounce House
Isaac was almost asleep in the stroller when we got to the splash pad and once he saw it, he had to get in. So he tossed his blankie and paci to the side and I changed his clothes. Keira was making sure Isaac wouldn't get run over by the crazy older kids. She is such a good big sister!
Going for a ride on the Endangered Species Carousel. Keira wanted to be on an elephant so Isaac didn't get a choice...I don't think he cared, he just likes getting to ride.
Ready to go home...
What a fun day! As soon as we walked out the gate, Keira was asking if we could go back to the Zoo!
Life Means So Much
I have lots I still have to catch up on with this blog, but I read this tonight and decided I had to share...
Every day is a bank account
And time is our currency
So nobody's rich, nobody's poor
We get 24 hours each
So how are you gonna spend
Will you invest, or squander
Try to get ahead
Or help someone who's under
Teach us to count the days
Teach us to make the days count
Lead us in better ways
That somehow our souls forgot
Life means so much
Life means so much
Life means so much
~Chris Rice, Life Means So Much
Every day is a bank account
And time is our currency
So nobody's rich, nobody's poor
We get 24 hours each
So how are you gonna spend
Will you invest, or squander
Try to get ahead
Or help someone who's under
Teach us to count the days
Teach us to make the days count
Lead us in better ways
That somehow our souls forgot
Life means so much
Life means so much
Life means so much
~Chris Rice, Life Means So Much
Saturday, July 18, 2009
A Divalicious Weekend
We were so excited to have my cousin Jennifer & her daughter, Isabel make the drive from Vegas to Phoenix. Most people take "mini vacations" to get out of the Vegas heat, but Jen & Isabel decided to come to another HOT spot to visit and we are so happy they did.
They got in late on Friday night and of course Keira & Isabel were ready to party. Isaac managed to stay up (but barely, he was really falling asleep on the couch) to say hi and then went to bed shortly after they arrived.
Once the girls were in bed, Jen & I enjoyed some wine and then decided to make some cookie dough :o) No chocolate chips, but we didn't seem to mind (wish I had a picture) and Bryan really didn't seem to mind (he ate more than both of us and then felt sick ~ gee, I wonder why?)
Saturday, all 6 of us headed off to the water park in the van (and Keira was so excited that Isabel got to ride in our van) and arrived right when it opened at 11am. As soon as we put our stuff down, we heard the announcement "the waterpark will be closed for 45 minutes due to a fecal accident" Great, some kid pooped in the water park and now we were stuck with 3 kids in 110 degree heat...just how we wanted to start our day :o) We decided to go inside to get out of the heat and ended up playing Wii in the playroom. Once we were able to get in the water, everyone had a good time.
After several hours in the water, we headed home for naps (adults included). We had a pasta dinner which was the perfect occasion for Jen & I to finish the bottle of wine. Keira asked if she could have the "small fancy glasses for her & Isabel" and here they are...
Then we watched our Christmas in July movie...The Polar Express. We are going on the Polar Express in December with Jen, Rob, Aidan & Isabel and since my kids haven't seen the movie, Jen & I thought it would be fun for the girls to watch it together so Keira would be able to make the connection in December. For a minute I thought the plan was going to backfire because Keira was a little freaked out by the movie, but in the end, she enjoyed it and still talks about it every now and then.
Sunday we spent the morning and early afternoon back at the water park and pool (no fecal accidents~yeah) Then it was time for them to pack up and hit the road. We had so much fun and promise to come visit you in Vegas soon!
Here are some photos from our Divalicious Weekend...
Two peas in a pod
Isaac, Keira & Isabel
Time for dress up
The DIVA!
They got in late on Friday night and of course Keira & Isabel were ready to party. Isaac managed to stay up (but barely, he was really falling asleep on the couch) to say hi and then went to bed shortly after they arrived.
Once the girls were in bed, Jen & I enjoyed some wine and then decided to make some cookie dough :o) No chocolate chips, but we didn't seem to mind (wish I had a picture) and Bryan really didn't seem to mind (he ate more than both of us and then felt sick ~ gee, I wonder why?)
Saturday, all 6 of us headed off to the water park in the van (and Keira was so excited that Isabel got to ride in our van) and arrived right when it opened at 11am. As soon as we put our stuff down, we heard the announcement "the waterpark will be closed for 45 minutes due to a fecal accident" Great, some kid pooped in the water park and now we were stuck with 3 kids in 110 degree heat...just how we wanted to start our day :o) We decided to go inside to get out of the heat and ended up playing Wii in the playroom. Once we were able to get in the water, everyone had a good time.
After several hours in the water, we headed home for naps (adults included). We had a pasta dinner which was the perfect occasion for Jen & I to finish the bottle of wine. Keira asked if she could have the "small fancy glasses for her & Isabel" and here they are...
Then we watched our Christmas in July movie...The Polar Express. We are going on the Polar Express in December with Jen, Rob, Aidan & Isabel and since my kids haven't seen the movie, Jen & I thought it would be fun for the girls to watch it together so Keira would be able to make the connection in December. For a minute I thought the plan was going to backfire because Keira was a little freaked out by the movie, but in the end, she enjoyed it and still talks about it every now and then.
Sunday we spent the morning and early afternoon back at the water park and pool (no fecal accidents~yeah) Then it was time for them to pack up and hit the road. We had so much fun and promise to come visit you in Vegas soon!
Here are some photos from our Divalicious Weekend...
Two peas in a pod
Isaac, Keira & Isabel
Time for dress up
The DIVA!
Monday, July 13, 2009
Escape Artist
This past Friday, I was putting the kids down for an afternoon nap and Isaac decided he didn't want to take an afternoon nap (my current battle) so he started crying when I left the room. I checked on Keira and she had already fallen asleep through the drama so I went to our room to get some work done on the computer. Isaac was still fussing off and on but I wasn't worried about him. Then I heard the volume of the cry get louder because his bedroom door had opened. Walking to that side of the house I was ready to grill Keira about going into his room (something she likes to do to "check on him" but all it does is make him made because he is still stuck in his crib crying) but when I turned the corner at the hallway, I saw Isaac out of his bed, in the hall about to open Keira's door. I wish someone (besides Isaac) could have seen the look on my face. I couldn't believe it! At no point did his cry change like he hurt himself so I'm sure just like his sister he skillfully landed on two feet.
I hoped it was going to be a one time thing, but no! He did it again on Saturday for his nap but this time I was in Keira's room and heard him make a "crash landing". He wasn't hurt, just on his butt and probably startled. I decided I couldn't risk him hurting himself so I did what my friend Amy said worked for her son. I turned the crib around and put the front side (the shorter side) up against the wall and even took the bumper out in case that was giving him "lift". I rocked him, put him back in bed (using a step stool since I couldn't get him to the mattress without dropping him otherwise) and left the room. He got out again this time without drama and opened the door and headed back out into the hallway. When I walked out to get him and asked him to come to his room, he just shook his head "no" at me.
Now Bryan and I are trying to decide what to do with him. We don't want him getting hurt so we either have to buy a crib tent to "cage" him in so he can't get out or change his crib to a toddler bed, which frankly I am NOT ready for. We switched Keira a few weeks after her 2nd Birthday and it was hell trying to get her to stay in bed and take a nap and she was by the side of my bed several times a night. He is not even 18 months (and has great comprehension but not the best follow through) and I think the freedom of a "big boy" bed will be too much for him. Who knows where he will end up...in Keira's room, climbing on her bed and slapping her in the head (like he did the other morning to wake her up) or in the refrigerator trying to get out whatever he can carry or God forbid splashing around in the toilet.
The other fabulous part of all this is he has started waking up in the middle of the night since this first happened and I can't let him cry it out like I would have because he'll just climb out of his crib, so...I end up on lying on his floor trying to get him to go back to sleep and when he does and I leave, he usually wakes up crying a little while later probably because I'm not on the floor.
Needless to say our little guy is a little too smart for his own good. I'll keep you posted on what we decide. If you have any ideas, feel free to leave a comment.
I hoped it was going to be a one time thing, but no! He did it again on Saturday for his nap but this time I was in Keira's room and heard him make a "crash landing". He wasn't hurt, just on his butt and probably startled. I decided I couldn't risk him hurting himself so I did what my friend Amy said worked for her son. I turned the crib around and put the front side (the shorter side) up against the wall and even took the bumper out in case that was giving him "lift". I rocked him, put him back in bed (using a step stool since I couldn't get him to the mattress without dropping him otherwise) and left the room. He got out again this time without drama and opened the door and headed back out into the hallway. When I walked out to get him and asked him to come to his room, he just shook his head "no" at me.
Now Bryan and I are trying to decide what to do with him. We don't want him getting hurt so we either have to buy a crib tent to "cage" him in so he can't get out or change his crib to a toddler bed, which frankly I am NOT ready for. We switched Keira a few weeks after her 2nd Birthday and it was hell trying to get her to stay in bed and take a nap and she was by the side of my bed several times a night. He is not even 18 months (and has great comprehension but not the best follow through) and I think the freedom of a "big boy" bed will be too much for him. Who knows where he will end up...in Keira's room, climbing on her bed and slapping her in the head (like he did the other morning to wake her up) or in the refrigerator trying to get out whatever he can carry or God forbid splashing around in the toilet.
The other fabulous part of all this is he has started waking up in the middle of the night since this first happened and I can't let him cry it out like I would have because he'll just climb out of his crib, so...I end up on lying on his floor trying to get him to go back to sleep and when he does and I leave, he usually wakes up crying a little while later probably because I'm not on the floor.
Needless to say our little guy is a little too smart for his own good. I'll keep you posted on what we decide. If you have any ideas, feel free to leave a comment.
Time Heals?
Today marks the 4 year anniversary of my mom's passing. Hard to believe! So much has happened in those 4 years that I wish she could have witnessed in person but I know she is watching us from Heaven. They say "time heals"...I'm not so sure I believe it 100%. For me, I think it gets harder as the kids get older. Keira knows Grandma Eileen is in Heaven and can pick her out if she is looking at pictures. We talk about her and we wonder what she is doing in Heaven. Today Keira thought she was watching owls :o) If she was, I'm sure my grandma Finnegan was right there with her (my grandma LOVED owls and had them all over her house) right after we moved back to AZ, we had one in our backyard and Bryan and I both said, "That's Midge coming to check on us"
Keira and I sang our "We love and miss you" song to my mom this morning, I let her have chocolate milk at breakfast in honor of my mom, I asked her what movie she thought Grandma Eileen would want to watch with her if she were here and she said "Mary Poppins" (which was a good call) and then changed her mind and said "Aristocats, she hasn't seen that one in a long time" How right she is.
Before we watched the movie, I had to send an email and then she decided she wanted to send one to Papa and then for the first time said she wanted to send one to Grandma Eileen in Heaven. So she did and it was the cutest thing ever! It was my dad's reply that had me in tears (I'm glad I read it once before I read it to her) and after I read it to her she said she wanted to sing Grandma's song one more time and started singing and changed the words up a bit. I asked if she would do it again so I could put it on tape and she said "ok" (which surprised me because she usually won't do things for the camera if you ask)
So here is her song to Grandma Eileen with the words changed for today's occasion.
Keira and I sang our "We love and miss you" song to my mom this morning, I let her have chocolate milk at breakfast in honor of my mom, I asked her what movie she thought Grandma Eileen would want to watch with her if she were here and she said "Mary Poppins" (which was a good call) and then changed her mind and said "Aristocats, she hasn't seen that one in a long time" How right she is.
Before we watched the movie, I had to send an email and then she decided she wanted to send one to Papa and then for the first time said she wanted to send one to Grandma Eileen in Heaven. So she did and it was the cutest thing ever! It was my dad's reply that had me in tears (I'm glad I read it once before I read it to her) and after I read it to her she said she wanted to sing Grandma's song one more time and started singing and changed the words up a bit. I asked if she would do it again so I could put it on tape and she said "ok" (which surprised me because she usually won't do things for the camera if you ask)
So here is her song to Grandma Eileen with the words changed for today's occasion.
Friday, July 10, 2009
Perspective
I have about 10 posts in "draft form" waiting for me to finish them, but I had to post this tonight while I was thinking about it.
My friend, Amy, has friends that are at Phoenix Children's Hospital with their beautiful 5 year old daughter, Kate. Kate has an aggressive brain tumor and had surgery a week ago today. She has a long road ahead of her but has thousands of people praying for her across the country and probably internationally as well. I have been following their story on caringbridge and wanted to post a link here as well so you can follow it if you choose, say a prayer for them and remember to give your kids (no matter how old they are) an extra hug today!
This particular post from Holly, Kate's mom, really struck a cord with me so I thought I would share it with you. We all have "those days" she talks about. Now, more than ever I try even harder not to sweat the small stuff.
"Do you know those days where your kids are endlessly calling "mommy"? I have had many of those in the past. My kids are 6 (she will be 7 in 2 weeks), 5 and 4. There were many times I would say "okay no one can call me mommy for 10 minutes, I just need quiet!". How many times did I complain about how it seemed like they were always pooping and I was always wiping. How I loved those days where I could lazily stay in my pjs and not wear any makeup. One word can change all of that. Cancer. Now I beg for my daughter to say mommy, just once, just for something for me to hang onto. I don't care if she screams it, slurs it, anything, just say mommy. Kate finally pooped today, in the bed (of which I was sharing with her). I was so excited to clean her up. She pooped! I kept telling her how proud I was of her. Now I rejoice that she poops, the surgery didn't effect that. As far as pajamas go, people here in the PICU might believe that it's possible I don't own any clothes. I would love to get out of pajamas. Just don't feel the need most days. Things change quickly and forever. We can never go back. We can never again be pre-cancer days. Our lives are forever altered. Just pray we can have post cancer days. Lives after God's healing. I want it so badly for my baby. So badly for me. So badly for Aaron. So badly for Olivia and Will."
Enjoy every day, even the bad ones...
Here's a little video to make you smile.
My friend, Amy, has friends that are at Phoenix Children's Hospital with their beautiful 5 year old daughter, Kate. Kate has an aggressive brain tumor and had surgery a week ago today. She has a long road ahead of her but has thousands of people praying for her across the country and probably internationally as well. I have been following their story on caringbridge and wanted to post a link here as well so you can follow it if you choose, say a prayer for them and remember to give your kids (no matter how old they are) an extra hug today!
This particular post from Holly, Kate's mom, really struck a cord with me so I thought I would share it with you. We all have "those days" she talks about. Now, more than ever I try even harder not to sweat the small stuff.
"Do you know those days where your kids are endlessly calling "mommy"? I have had many of those in the past. My kids are 6 (she will be 7 in 2 weeks), 5 and 4. There were many times I would say "okay no one can call me mommy for 10 minutes, I just need quiet!". How many times did I complain about how it seemed like they were always pooping and I was always wiping. How I loved those days where I could lazily stay in my pjs and not wear any makeup. One word can change all of that. Cancer. Now I beg for my daughter to say mommy, just once, just for something for me to hang onto. I don't care if she screams it, slurs it, anything, just say mommy. Kate finally pooped today, in the bed (of which I was sharing with her). I was so excited to clean her up. She pooped! I kept telling her how proud I was of her. Now I rejoice that she poops, the surgery didn't effect that. As far as pajamas go, people here in the PICU might believe that it's possible I don't own any clothes. I would love to get out of pajamas. Just don't feel the need most days. Things change quickly and forever. We can never go back. We can never again be pre-cancer days. Our lives are forever altered. Just pray we can have post cancer days. Lives after God's healing. I want it so badly for my baby. So badly for me. So badly for Aaron. So badly for Olivia and Will."
Enjoy every day, even the bad ones...
Here's a little video to make you smile.
Sunday, May 24, 2009
8 Things
My friend Amy "tagged" me, so here you go. I actually filled this out yesterday but forgot to post it last night. They are in no particular order, just how they came to me as I did it.
8 Things I am looking forward to:
~Watching Keira & Isaac grow up
~Growing old with Bryan and celebrating our 50 year anniversary in 2054!
~Heaven! Especially seeing my mom again and my family/friends that are already there having a party.
~Teaching my L.E.A.N. classes (go to http://azlean.blogspot.com/ to learn a little more)
~Working out on a more consistent basis
~Getting a massage (thanks M&M)
~Going to California in 2 weeks to meet Connor, Donovan’s Baptism and seeing family/friends!
~Being Debt-Free!!
8 Things I did yesterday:
~Played in the rain with Keira & Isaac (It was so much fun! I love laughing with them!)
~Kissed my hubby
~Enjoyed a super clean house :o)
~Talked to both my sisters and my dad within 30 minutes of each other
~Prayed
~Looked at our calendar and had a countdown with Keira about when the O’Briens (specifically for her, Kaitlyn & Kailey) are coming to visit and when Papa is coming to visit. We are all so excited!
~Gave my “babies” a bath and put them both in bed.
~Ate one of my favorite “pregnancy cravings” from my 2nd pregnancy (NO, I’m not pregnant, it just sounded good) ~ chocolate chips, almonds and peanut butter
8 Things I Want To Do:
~Take a kid-free trip with Bryan
~Cure Cancer
~Surf (I’m going to learn when the kids learn. Keira has already decided the color of everyone’s surfboards and wetsuits)
~Cook/bake more recipes ~ it’s always the same things around here
~Sew
~Get my photos organized and into scrapbooks!
~Have more patience
~Buy a vacation home somewhere (no idea where yet but someday it will hit me and we’ll have the resources to do it)
8 Things I wouldn’t want to live without:
~My Faith
~Bryan
~Keira
~Isaac
~My family (all of them-and that’s a lot)
~My Girlfriends
~A place to live
~“Alone time” ~ we all need a break from life every now and then
8 Shows I Enjoy:
~So You Think You Can Dance
~Amazing Race (this is a show I would actually go on, but I haven’t seen it in awhile)
~Dancing with the Stars if I can watch it with Keira because she loves to show me her moves :o)
~Sorry, I couldn’t come up with 8. We don’t watch much TV around here
8 Things I am looking forward to:
~Watching Keira & Isaac grow up
~Growing old with Bryan and celebrating our 50 year anniversary in 2054!
~Heaven! Especially seeing my mom again and my family/friends that are already there having a party.
~Teaching my L.E.A.N. classes (go to http://azlean.blogspot.com/ to learn a little more)
~Working out on a more consistent basis
~Getting a massage (thanks M&M)
~Going to California in 2 weeks to meet Connor, Donovan’s Baptism and seeing family/friends!
~Being Debt-Free!!
8 Things I did yesterday:
~Played in the rain with Keira & Isaac (It was so much fun! I love laughing with them!)
~Kissed my hubby
~Enjoyed a super clean house :o)
~Talked to both my sisters and my dad within 30 minutes of each other
~Prayed
~Looked at our calendar and had a countdown with Keira about when the O’Briens (specifically for her, Kaitlyn & Kailey) are coming to visit and when Papa is coming to visit. We are all so excited!
~Gave my “babies” a bath and put them both in bed.
~Ate one of my favorite “pregnancy cravings” from my 2nd pregnancy (NO, I’m not pregnant, it just sounded good) ~ chocolate chips, almonds and peanut butter
8 Things I Want To Do:
~Take a kid-free trip with Bryan
~Cure Cancer
~Surf (I’m going to learn when the kids learn. Keira has already decided the color of everyone’s surfboards and wetsuits)
~Cook/bake more recipes ~ it’s always the same things around here
~Sew
~Get my photos organized and into scrapbooks!
~Have more patience
~Buy a vacation home somewhere (no idea where yet but someday it will hit me and we’ll have the resources to do it)
8 Things I wouldn’t want to live without:
~My Faith
~Bryan
~Keira
~Isaac
~My family (all of them-and that’s a lot)
~My Girlfriends
~A place to live
~“Alone time” ~ we all need a break from life every now and then
8 Shows I Enjoy:
~So You Think You Can Dance
~Amazing Race (this is a show I would actually go on, but I haven’t seen it in awhile)
~Dancing with the Stars if I can watch it with Keira because she loves to show me her moves :o)
~Sorry, I couldn’t come up with 8. We don’t watch much TV around here
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Little Miss Attitude
So, Keira picks up EVERYTHING she hears people say. Sometimes she just throws all kinds of words together even if they don't make sense. This was her comment to me the other morning...
"I'm trying to talk and now you're interrupting me. I'm not having this discussion any, any more."
And then she walked up the hall and into her room. Excuse me? While I was impressed with her big words, I was taken aback by her tone and attitude. Obviously we had a discussion about talking back and her tone of voice and then I quietly prayed for GOD to give me the strength to get through her teen years :o)
Discussion and decision are two of her favorite words right now. She even used them both in a sentence, "Well, sorry...we had a discussion and that was your decision."
Her other new thing is repeating certain words over and over and over again. I guess for the dramatic effect? I'm not sure but here are some of her comments...
Before bed: "Can you please check on me again & again & again & again & again & again & again & again & again & again?"
After she gets in trouble: "I am really, really, really, really, really, really, really NOT happy right now."
When she is hungry: "I am so, so, so, so, so hungry right now." (She has learned not to tell me she is starving. The last time she told me that, I channeled my mom and told her "You are not starving, children in Ethiopia are starving. You are really hungry.")
"I'm trying to talk and now you're interrupting me. I'm not having this discussion any, any more."
And then she walked up the hall and into her room. Excuse me? While I was impressed with her big words, I was taken aback by her tone and attitude. Obviously we had a discussion about talking back and her tone of voice and then I quietly prayed for GOD to give me the strength to get through her teen years :o)
Discussion and decision are two of her favorite words right now. She even used them both in a sentence, "Well, sorry...we had a discussion and that was your decision."
Her other new thing is repeating certain words over and over and over again. I guess for the dramatic effect? I'm not sure but here are some of her comments...
Before bed: "Can you please check on me again & again & again & again & again & again & again & again & again & again?"
After she gets in trouble: "I am really, really, really, really, really, really, really NOT happy right now."
When she is hungry: "I am so, so, so, so, so hungry right now." (She has learned not to tell me she is starving. The last time she told me that, I channeled my mom and told her "You are not starving, children in Ethiopia are starving. You are really hungry.")
"I'm Not a NIKE"
After breakfast one morning I asked Keira to go get dressed. She came out of her room carrying a pair of shorts with NIKE across the tush. She had a funny look on her face
K: But this doesn't say Keira
Me: No, it says NIKE
K: But I'm not a NIKE
Me: (laughing) I know but that's the name brand of the shorts
K: Well...it does have a KEI...maybe we can switch it and add a few things.
That girl cracks me up!! She wore the shorts again a few days ago and said "Even though these are my shorts, it doesn't say KEIRA yet. We still have to fix it"
K: But this doesn't say Keira
Me: No, it says NIKE
K: But I'm not a NIKE
Me: (laughing) I know but that's the name brand of the shorts
K: Well...it does have a KEI...maybe we can switch it and add a few things.
That girl cracks me up!! She wore the shorts again a few days ago and said "Even though these are my shorts, it doesn't say KEIRA yet. We still have to fix it"
Future Surfer
We were borrowing dad's Honda for way too long and were finally able to return it the first week in May. Bryan decided to drive it out to CA and make a surf trip out of it. He was gone for 2.5 days and on the morning he was flying home, Keira and I had the following conversation (I wrote it down so I wouldn't forget)
K: is daddy still in CA?
Me: yes, he's surfing today
K: oh, when I'm a bigger girl, I'm going to surf. My board is going to be PINK but first I have to learn to swim up at the Community Center
Me: that's right, you have to be a good swimmer to surf
K: well...we can all surf...like you and Isaac and me and daddy. Your board is purple, Isaac's is blue, daddy's is green. (long pause) Maybe Addison and Mitch and Michelle can surf with us too. It will be so fun but we have to stay close to daddy since he's the biggest boy.
Of course daddy is thrilled that she is already talking about surfing and is happy that she didn't pick a crazy color for his surfboard :o) Not sure what she meant by "biggest boy" but we'll interpret that as "strongest boy"
K: is daddy still in CA?
Me: yes, he's surfing today
K: oh, when I'm a bigger girl, I'm going to surf. My board is going to be PINK but first I have to learn to swim up at the Community Center
Me: that's right, you have to be a good swimmer to surf
K: well...we can all surf...like you and Isaac and me and daddy. Your board is purple, Isaac's is blue, daddy's is green. (long pause) Maybe Addison and Mitch and Michelle can surf with us too. It will be so fun but we have to stay close to daddy since he's the biggest boy.
Of course daddy is thrilled that she is already talking about surfing and is happy that she didn't pick a crazy color for his surfboard :o) Not sure what she meant by "biggest boy" but we'll interpret that as "strongest boy"
Isaac's 1st Timeout
Well, Isaac officially got his first timeout the same day as his first haircut~ 5/5/09. He was throwing blocks in the playroom and hit Keira. The first time he got a warning and went over to Keira and gave her a hug and a kiss. The second time he launched the blocks and the poor girl got hit again and this time worse so off he went to his crib for 1 minute. As I carried him to his room I explained that wasn't nice and that he had to stay in his room for 1 minute, put him in his crib and shut the door behind me. Of course he was crying the entire time. When I opened the door to go get him, he quickly laid down like he was going to sleep and didn't want to get in trouble. The look on his face was classic...it was so cute. He hasn't had a time out since. Let's hope he is a quick learner :o)
Isaac's 1st Haircut
So this post is really late and I don't even have the video to upload, but on May 5th, Isaac had his first haircut. I took him to the salon where Keira & I go (Keira has had her hair cut more times than I have) and he did great. I wasn't sure if he would sit by himself or if I would have to hold him. But he sat on the booster like a big boy and was pretty still for a 15 month old. I wanted to wait as long as I could to cut it for two reasons: 1) I was hoping my friend Marivel would cut it since she gave Keira her 1st haircut and several more since then (that is why Keira pretends to be "Marivel" when we play hair salon) and 2) I didn't want him to look like a "big boy" too soon, but it was starting to hang in his eyes in the front and he had these long pieces by his ears that were driving Bryan CRAZY. He is our little man! These aren't the best pictures, but they'll do...
We made cookies before we went to the appointment for daddy to take on his road trip to CA and brought one to Cindy, our stylist. Here they are eating cookies in the lobby.
Before his 1st haircut (notice his ears)
After his 1st haircut
Walking around the salon after his haircut. Of course everyone thought he was adorable and couldn't stop talking about how blonde their hair is
We made cookies before we went to the appointment for daddy to take on his road trip to CA and brought one to Cindy, our stylist. Here they are eating cookies in the lobby.
Before his 1st haircut (notice his ears)
After his 1st haircut
Walking around the salon after his haircut. Of course everyone thought he was adorable and couldn't stop talking about how blonde their hair is
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Baby Connor Joins our World
Yeah! My older sister, Teresa and her husband Chris welcomed their first child into the world today at 2:02pm. Connor Michael weighed 7 lbs 8 oz and is 19.5 inches. The proud papa told me he has a full head of dark hair. My sister was sweet enough to send me a photo via my cell phone and he is ADORABLE (of course) but I'm waiting for some photos to be sent by my dad and then I'll post some.
This morning when I told Keira that Connor was going to have his birthday today, the first thing she said was, "I wonder what kind of cake he wants?" She then decided "I think strawberry shortcake is a good choice"
Congratulations! We love you! Enjoy your little man!
Stay tuned...lots more posts to come including STOMP on Mother's Day, Sedona on my birthday and general shenanigans around the Appleton house. I just had to get the message about Connor up.
Oh and a "shout out" to my "bro" who now shares a bday with my new nephew...happy birthday Brutha Luv :o)
This morning when I told Keira that Connor was going to have his birthday today, the first thing she said was, "I wonder what kind of cake he wants?" She then decided "I think strawberry shortcake is a good choice"
Congratulations! We love you! Enjoy your little man!
Stay tuned...lots more posts to come including STOMP on Mother's Day, Sedona on my birthday and general shenanigans around the Appleton house. I just had to get the message about Connor up.
Oh and a "shout out" to my "bro" who now shares a bday with my new nephew...happy birthday Brutha Luv :o)
Monday, May 4, 2009
Bryan's Dream...
Oh yes, we finally purchased Bryan's Dream Car...a Honda Odyssey :o) He has been talking about getting this van for years and since we needed to get another car we started looking and found a 2005 Odyssey complete with DVD player (this will help on our long car drives but will not be used for quick trips around Arizona - Keira already knows this rule), sunroof, and lots of nifty features.
I must admit, I never pictured myself driving a minivan but was sold when I took it out the 2nd day we had it. We had to run some errands, which included the grocery store and of course when we were leaving the store it started raining. Thankfully Keira had her Little Mermaid umbrella and I only had 2 bags of groceries, so I picked Keira up (I was already carrying Isaac) and we made a dash for the car. I pushed a button and the door automatically opened allowing me to set Isaac down and have him walk to his side, get Keira in, put the groceries down and have them buckled without getting too wet. AAHHH, I love those sliding doors.
I think some of Bryan's favorite features are the rear AC since Keira is always complaining she's hot and the sunshades on the kids windows.
Both kids love the van, which means we should all be happier on road trips!
Here are a few photos
For some reason, the blog keeps turning this photo even though this is not what it looks like when I view it prior to uploading...weird, but Keira thinks it is funny and wants me to leave it.
I must admit, I never pictured myself driving a minivan but was sold when I took it out the 2nd day we had it. We had to run some errands, which included the grocery store and of course when we were leaving the store it started raining. Thankfully Keira had her Little Mermaid umbrella and I only had 2 bags of groceries, so I picked Keira up (I was already carrying Isaac) and we made a dash for the car. I pushed a button and the door automatically opened allowing me to set Isaac down and have him walk to his side, get Keira in, put the groceries down and have them buckled without getting too wet. AAHHH, I love those sliding doors.
I think some of Bryan's favorite features are the rear AC since Keira is always complaining she's hot and the sunshades on the kids windows.
Both kids love the van, which means we should all be happier on road trips!
Here are a few photos
For some reason, the blog keeps turning this photo even though this is not what it looks like when I view it prior to uploading...weird, but Keira thinks it is funny and wants me to leave it.
Keira's Tattoo
Oh yes, Keira got her first tatoo...Tinkerbell.
We went down to the Shops at Norterra (a newer shopping center about 10 minutes from the house) for dinner on a random Friday night since Bryan was home and it happened to be their One Year Anniversary so there were all sorts of activities going on. After dinner we walked down "main street" and saw some classic cars as well as some exotic cars. My dad would have loved it. We also stopped for Keira to get an airbrushed tattoo (she picked the design and the location) and was so excited about it. She was also worried about it coming off while she slept but no, it remained in tact and it lasted all day Saturday until her bath when she was ready for it to come off. We didn't have the camera so we missed out on some great pictures, but we enjoyed the night and had some tasty gelato ~ yum!
We went down to the Shops at Norterra (a newer shopping center about 10 minutes from the house) for dinner on a random Friday night since Bryan was home and it happened to be their One Year Anniversary so there were all sorts of activities going on. After dinner we walked down "main street" and saw some classic cars as well as some exotic cars. My dad would have loved it. We also stopped for Keira to get an airbrushed tattoo (she picked the design and the location) and was so excited about it. She was also worried about it coming off while she slept but no, it remained in tact and it lasted all day Saturday until her bath when she was ready for it to come off. We didn't have the camera so we missed out on some great pictures, but we enjoyed the night and had some tasty gelato ~ yum!
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Music In May
Every year, Anthem hosts a Music In May series every Friday night of May out in the Anthem Community Park. It is a great event and one that I had only been to when I worked for the Community Center.
Well this past Friday, our friends, Amy & Andrew hosted a picnic for a group of friends and the kids had a blast! Bryan had a night shift so I ventured out with both kids and am so happy I did...Keira and Isaac both love to dance and had so much fun listening to a live band.
I got lucky that they both took late naps so staying out late wasn't too much of an issue, but we did leave about 15 minutes before it ended so I could beat traffic and get them home for baths. Keira talked about it the whole way home and wanted to know when she could dance with her friends in the park again. We are so thankful to have great friends in Anthem as well as great friends for our kids!
Enjoy these videos and photos from the night! Watch Isaac get up close and personal with the band. Keira, Addison and AJ started the night off with more running/chasing than dancing, but did end up getting their groove on too (I just don't have any video of it since I was constantly chasing Isaac)
Keira, Isaac and Addison having some snacks before dancing
Isaac needs a break from all the dancing
Keira and Isaac with Maisy (our neighbor from across the street)
Well this past Friday, our friends, Amy & Andrew hosted a picnic for a group of friends and the kids had a blast! Bryan had a night shift so I ventured out with both kids and am so happy I did...Keira and Isaac both love to dance and had so much fun listening to a live band.
I got lucky that they both took late naps so staying out late wasn't too much of an issue, but we did leave about 15 minutes before it ended so I could beat traffic and get them home for baths. Keira talked about it the whole way home and wanted to know when she could dance with her friends in the park again. We are so thankful to have great friends in Anthem as well as great friends for our kids!
Enjoy these videos and photos from the night! Watch Isaac get up close and personal with the band. Keira, Addison and AJ started the night off with more running/chasing than dancing, but did end up getting their groove on too (I just don't have any video of it since I was constantly chasing Isaac)
Keira, Isaac and Addison having some snacks before dancing
Isaac needs a break from all the dancing
Keira and Isaac with Maisy (our neighbor from across the street)
Welcome Baby Colton
My cousin Lisa and her husband Marco welcomed their 3rd son, Colton Mitchell on May 1st. We can't wait to meet him. I'm sure the big brothers, Justin and Dylan are loving their baby brother and I'm just hoping Justin hasn't talked Lisa & Marco into a 4th baby so Justin can get the little sister he always talks about :o) Congrats Magallanes family! We love you!
This is a copy of the email Keira sent to the boys after Lisa sent photos of Colton. She loves to send email!
"kjjkf jd duduuuuuuuuuuu d3333333333333333333333333333luuuurr33333333333333333333a
0ii..giu.i.ui.uuu.u ziiif02.j
8888o[\c\dodd9r9tnt8...........................ppoot60000000000008888880888000gbn8h98h9000
m mjilloo0000000000000000kgki
"I love you baby this much. I love Justin and Dylan. I love Marco and Lisa. I love you again baby."
llb 000tmt0mm0y0yyghnngjb88 686676868888888888888888888888888888lllllllllllllllllllllllllkkkkkkkkklllllllhhhhhfffffffffffrrrrfffrrrrrffrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr
xxnnj
"So if you want to make the baby happy, watch Princess Aurora. If he isn't happy still then you can watch Mowgli and Jungle Book or just tickle him or something"
Love,
KEIRA (she typed her own name)
P.S. Isaac wanted to get in on the typing (notice all the "3s" in the first line) and Keira told him "this is not your business. I'm typing to the baby" The words above are from her mouth :o)"
This is a copy of the email Keira sent to the boys after Lisa sent photos of Colton. She loves to send email!
"kjjkf jd duduuuuuuuuuuu d3333333333333333333333333333luuuurr33333333333333333333a
0ii..giu.i.ui.uuu.u ziiif02.j
8888o[\c\dodd9r9tnt8...........................ppoot60000000000008888880888000gbn8h98h9000
m mjilloo0000000000000000kgki
"I love you baby this much. I love Justin and Dylan. I love Marco and Lisa. I love you again baby."
llb 000tmt0mm0y0yyghnngjb88 686676868888888888888888888888888888lllllllllllllllllllllllllkkkkkkkkklllllllhhhhhfffffffffffrrrrfffrrrrrffrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr
xxnnj
"So if you want to make the baby happy, watch Princess Aurora. If he isn't happy still then you can watch Mowgli and Jungle Book or just tickle him or something"
Love,
KEIRA (she typed her own name)
P.S. Isaac wanted to get in on the typing (notice all the "3s" in the first line) and Keira told him "this is not your business. I'm typing to the baby" The words above are from her mouth :o)"
5 kids in our house
When we left California, my Stroller Strides friends said they were going to make a road trip to see me. It was originally going to be 5 moms and 7 kids, but with illness, other plans and whatever else...it ended up being 2 moms (Michelle & Rachel) and 3 kids (Emily, Megan and Cooper) which for a first trip was probably enough :o) They were here the Thurs-Sat after Easter. Bryan was wondering what I signed him up for, but they didn't stay at our house. Michelle's husband works for the Marriott so they stayed at a nearby hotel.
I wish I had before and after pictures of the playroom on Thursday night when they got to the house. It was hysterical. I think every toy was out and we have more than we need. We decided to leave it since they were coming back the next morning, but after they left, Keira looked at me and said "this playroom is a disaster" and I totally agreed. Then I realized that small toys that aren't usually out when Isaac is awake were out and so as I picked up those toys, it lead to another and another and the playroom was picked up within minutes (Keira helped and went to bed feeling happy that the disaster and been resolved)
I made chocolate chip cookies and as you can see the kids were excited about that...
Hungry Boys
Here's Keira funny comment for the trip:
Emily: "Keira can we watch this movie"
Keira: "I'll have to talk to my mom about that first"
Me: (trying not to laugh while looking away and feeding Isaac his dinner)
Keira: "Excuse me mommy, can we watch this movie?"
Me: No, not right now
Keira: "My mom said not right now Emily"
Michelle, Rachel & I were cracking up. She was so grown up sounding and had never used that phrase before "I'll have to talk to my mom about that first" Classic Keira.
Friday morning we had breakfast at the house, played a little here and then went for a walk to a nearby park. It was a beautiful day and the kids had fun. On our walk to the park, we noticed a house with a "flock of flamingos" all over the front yard. It was hysterical and the kids thought it was great so we had to stop and take photos on the way home. Mine didn't turn out, probably because I was more worried about the homeowners coming out and wondering why 5 kids were climbing all over their rocks and harassing their flamingos (it was a fundraiser for the high school~don't ask, long story). Once we got home, I sneaked (is that proper grammar?)into our neighbor's backyard and used their BBQ to cook the chicken we were supposed to have Thursday night. The BBQ drama was too much for me, but I will say it turned out pretty good for my first real attempt at BBQing in a LONG time. After lunch it was naps and after naps, we headed to the "BIG PARK" so Keira could show everyone the multi-colored slides, ducks, ponds and train. Then it was back to the house for Michelle's fettucine alfredo and tiramisu ~ she gave me the recipes right before Isaac was born and I never made them - hello, he is now 15 months :o) It was delicious!
Walking to the park
Running for the playground
Cooper and Isaac playing in the dirt
How many kids can you fit on a teeter totter?
The Flamingos
Climbing on the rocks at the BIG Park
Rachel got into the rock climbing too (I don't think she even knows I took this picture)
Dump truck fun at the Big Park and Emily on the dinosaur
Saturday they stopped by one last time for breakfast and some playtime before hittin' the road back to Cali. We were so happy to have them and glad they made the trip. Trust me, I know it's not an easy one with kids.
Can you tell they were watching a movie?
Come back anytime. And for those of you that didn't make it, you are still invited ;o)
I wish I had before and after pictures of the playroom on Thursday night when they got to the house. It was hysterical. I think every toy was out and we have more than we need. We decided to leave it since they were coming back the next morning, but after they left, Keira looked at me and said "this playroom is a disaster" and I totally agreed. Then I realized that small toys that aren't usually out when Isaac is awake were out and so as I picked up those toys, it lead to another and another and the playroom was picked up within minutes (Keira helped and went to bed feeling happy that the disaster and been resolved)
I made chocolate chip cookies and as you can see the kids were excited about that...
Hungry Boys
Here's Keira funny comment for the trip:
Emily: "Keira can we watch this movie"
Keira: "I'll have to talk to my mom about that first"
Me: (trying not to laugh while looking away and feeding Isaac his dinner)
Keira: "Excuse me mommy, can we watch this movie?"
Me: No, not right now
Keira: "My mom said not right now Emily"
Michelle, Rachel & I were cracking up. She was so grown up sounding and had never used that phrase before "I'll have to talk to my mom about that first" Classic Keira.
Friday morning we had breakfast at the house, played a little here and then went for a walk to a nearby park. It was a beautiful day and the kids had fun. On our walk to the park, we noticed a house with a "flock of flamingos" all over the front yard. It was hysterical and the kids thought it was great so we had to stop and take photos on the way home. Mine didn't turn out, probably because I was more worried about the homeowners coming out and wondering why 5 kids were climbing all over their rocks and harassing their flamingos (it was a fundraiser for the high school~don't ask, long story). Once we got home, I sneaked (is that proper grammar?)into our neighbor's backyard and used their BBQ to cook the chicken we were supposed to have Thursday night. The BBQ drama was too much for me, but I will say it turned out pretty good for my first real attempt at BBQing in a LONG time. After lunch it was naps and after naps, we headed to the "BIG PARK" so Keira could show everyone the multi-colored slides, ducks, ponds and train. Then it was back to the house for Michelle's fettucine alfredo and tiramisu ~ she gave me the recipes right before Isaac was born and I never made them - hello, he is now 15 months :o) It was delicious!
Walking to the park
Running for the playground
Cooper and Isaac playing in the dirt
How many kids can you fit on a teeter totter?
The Flamingos
Climbing on the rocks at the BIG Park
Rachel got into the rock climbing too (I don't think she even knows I took this picture)
Dump truck fun at the Big Park and Emily on the dinosaur
Saturday they stopped by one last time for breakfast and some playtime before hittin' the road back to Cali. We were so happy to have them and glad they made the trip. Trust me, I know it's not an easy one with kids.
Can you tell they were watching a movie?
Come back anytime. And for those of you that didn't make it, you are still invited ;o)
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