It Keeps Getting Better

2012-02-11T16:40:00.000-06:00

Last night was a success! I went a little crazy on food, between Thursday and Friday I just kept adding to the menu and we ended up with this:

In case you're curious that would be a Buffalo Chicken Ring, Texas Caviar, Apple Dumplings, Mozzarella Sticks, Dill Hummus, Cookie Dough Dip, Chocolate Dipped Strawberries, Vanilla Bean Ice Cream, Cream Cheese wontons and Beer Cheese Bread.

(Yes, you can find almost all of these on my Pin Board. Yummy!)

It was fun to have everyone together! There was Becca, the first college roommate I actually chose to live with, and Katie, my sister-in-law but also good friend.

Reb, who's been my friend since 6th grade.

Kelsey who showed up in 9th grade and beat all of my swimming records in Jr. High, yet we still hit it off and Lisa who I also met in college while studying Spanish our freshman year.

And Erica, my last college roommate who helped me remain calm while trying to plan a wedding, work part time, and finish up my last year of college.

I've never had all these women together in one place and it was such a special night for me to have them all together. It was a night of food, way too much food, drinks, laughing, stories, and just perfection. Exactly what I wanted and hoped for. I'm so glad I get to call all of these ladies my closest friends, I get so much from each and every one of them.

And we had some fun too! Kelsey had Buffalo Sabre hats for the kids and they were excited to put them on. Although they did argue that they weren't Sabres but puppies, sorry Kels!

Lisa, Becca, and Erica stayed the night and Lisa and Erica took the bunk beds. They decided to add sleeping Ta-Ta to the mix and sleeping Ta-Ta was rude enough to leave her bra hanging right in the middle of the photo!

I'm still pretty high on the happiness I got from having everyone over, so I better wrap this up for fear I'll go on gushing. I do love those girls, every single one of them, and I'm so glad I had that night, I'm not going to forget it!

2012-02-10T11:57:00.000-06:00

Tonight I'm having a Pinterest inspired food party and all my best girl friends are coming over! Needless to say I'm giddy. Probably more giddy then the kids are to go to Bopa and Grandma's lake house. (Although that is debatable as Max has been asking if it was time to go yet since he woke up at 6:30 this morning.)

So please excuse me, I've got food to prep, bathrooms to clean, and beds to make up with clean sheets. I'll post photos later this weekend along with our favorites from the many different recipes I'll be doing tonight.

Yippee!

2012-02-08T15:29:00.000-06:00

We've been spending quite a bit of time outside thanks to this unusual winter. Today? I let the kids eat ice chunks.

Even better? Maya taught them about this delicacy as she was breaking up the ice and then chewing on them. Yes, a dog taught them this.

It's a good thing I got that Mother of the Year thing out of the way while the kids were still little!

2012-02-07T14:17:00.000-06:00

Now that we're all caught up, the last few days home have been interesting. Max and Rory are slowly adjusting back to having Mom and Dad around and they're also showing us how they felt about us being gone.

The first change we noticed is that Rory is talking a lot. Like, as much as I talk, a lot. She's enunciating her words more, using more sayings, and pretty much just always wants to talk whether its to somebody or just to herself. She's also been a lot more emotional, but to be fair she became sick the night we got home. She had a cold that gave her fevers in the evening so she must not have been feeling well which I'd associate with her extreme emotions more then our return.

Max on the other hand, has been very vocal on how much he missed us. Numerous times he's told us "I missed you so much!" It's enough to make this Momma's heart melt over and over again. He's also become attached to Daddy. Saturday was our first day home with the kids but Dusty had plans so he wasn't home for much of the day. Max was very upset when Daddy left and continued to tell me about it for the rest of the day. On Sunday we had to reassure him a few times that Daddy was staying home; he couldn't even go to the bathroom without getting questioned by Max! Monday morning was tough as Max was very upset that Daddy had gone to work but today has been better so I think he's coming around.

Now if only I could adjust back to being home! Not only have I been in long sleeves and sweatshirts most of the time just to stay warm, my fingers keep cracking from all the dry air. I feel like a little old lady that can't adjust to weather changes.

2012-02-06T08:00:00.001-06:00

Thursday had our group in much smaller numbers as many had caught a flight back home that day. Stacey and Steve made dinner reservations for all of us to eat at Latitudes Restaurant which is on a smaller, separate island called Sunset Key. We all met up to catch the taxi, which of course was a boat, and had a beautiful dinner on the patio watching the sun set once again and eating some of the best food we'd ever had.

The sunset was beautiful with the very secluded surroundings!

Before catching the taxi we hung out on the pier watching all the fish and laughing at our stories. I was even able to convince everyone to do a quick group shot!

After dinner a lot of us returned to our hotels/houses as we had flights to catch the next day. Dusty and I lounged around with Reb and Joe at the hotel before heading in early. We had plans to get up the next morning and watch the sunrise.

This has become a sort-of tradition for us. I say sort-of because we don't do it on every vacation, sometimes it just doesn't make sense, but we certainly try to do it if it does and this vacation, it definitely made sense. We found ourselves a hammock and we lounged around taking photos, talking, napping and just being with each other while the sun brought us our last day on the island.

It was a beautiful way to say goodbye to our vacation. I'm so glad we were able to be with Stacey for her wedding day and that we got to enjoy ourselves too. I wish them many years of happiness, and I wish the same for Dusty and I!

2012-02-05T10:00:00.001-06:00

Thursday Reb, Joe, Dusty and I decided to rent scooters and tour the island. We'd pretty much been walking everywhere (the island is only about 2 miles wide by 4 miles long and we were spending most of our time on just the southern tip) but our feet were getting tired and we still had a lot more we wanted to see that scooters would give us faster access to.

You guys? Remember my obsession with statues? If you don't that's fine, I'll just tell you, I'm obsessed with posing next to statues and either mimicking them or incorporating myself into them. We found a lot of statues. It started with this Captain Morgan statue, I mean, who doesn't want to act like the Cap'n?

Dusty struck a pose with former President Truman, who spent a lot of time at "The Little White House" at the Keys and visited regularly during the presidency. Many other presidents have used the small home but Truman is the most well known as he visited and used it for official business the most.

Then we toured closer to where the cruise ships come in and we found the jackpot. The Key West Art & History Museum I believe it was called had so many statues I had to just pick a few to play with. And play I did. I started with this. I believe it was call, The Daydream, and daydreaming I did!

My view from down there:

Then there was this gigantic statue outside the front entrance that just screamed, mimic me!

And I just love this one of Reb with the photographer; she may not understand my obsession but she goes right along with it.

After our visit with the sculptures we continued on our way only to end up just a vehicle behind the bride and groom! That was a fun little surprise and made for a cute picture.

Of course I then had to turn the camera on ourselves, while Dusty was driving, because I laugh in the face of danger you know. (Don't ask Dusty about it, he'll just complain because I wouldn't let him go over 25 mph and would freak out even then.)

Also? That last picture is one of my favorites because if you look carefully into Dusty's glasses you can actually see me holding out the camera and the traffic around us as we're driving. I'm dangerous I tell you!

We had the scooters for three hours and made a complete loop around the island and zigzagged our way to different attractions making for a very fun afternoon, I'd highly recommend it!

2012-02-05T08:00:00.000-06:00

Wednesday was wedding day. Of course, we did lay out and attempt to get as tan as we possibly could beforehand. I think it worked out pretty well. No sunburns, nice tans, and a cute picture of me and my husband.

The bride was stunning, as I've shown already. She was adorable sneaking a peek.

And her father, who was my dentist for many years, was so proud to be walking her down the aisle!

We had little poppers on our chairs and when the bride and groom kissed, they were let off making for a pretty awesome picture!

After the ceremony and dinner we went outside to find that Stacey and Steve had reserved enough pedicabs for everyone to make a trip down the street to the bars. That was a lot of fun and led to lots of catcalling from both our party and the people on the streets.

And of course, when a wedding party walks into a dueling piano bar, there is going to be some group participation.

By the time we were done celebrating my feet were too sore to wear my shoes so I walked back to the hotel barefoot. I don't ever remember seeing my feet so black before - Disgusting! (Yes, I did fill the tub to scrub my feet before bed that night, it makes me shudder just looking at the picture.)

The wedding was beautiful, the company was fun, and the event was memorable. I'm so glad we made the trip to celebrate with Stacey and Steve, the newest Mr. and Mrs! Don't worry, there is still more to come.

2012-02-04T12:07:00.000-06:00

On Tuesday we spent a lot of time in the sun. It was windy so we stayed by our pool where the wind was hindered by the hotel but it was marvelous laying around doing nothing. After we had soaked up enough sun for the day we headed out to meet up with everyone else for a boat ride on the ocean where we had drinks and appetizers and once again watched the beautiful sunset.

Everyone got a chance to get to know each other a little better as Stacey's family is all from the Midwest while Steve's family is all from New England.

Pirates are the theme in Key West. Every where you go there are pirate shirts, flags, cups, you name it. The coolest part though was the pirate ships, they looked so cool on the ocean while the sun set!

There was a live band on the boat and they played a song for Stacey and Steve to dance to which was very sweet.

After the boat ride we headed back to our hotels. We made a slight detour and stopped to visit one of the tourist attractions, the southernmost point. (This way we didn't have to stand in line during the day to get a photo.)

It was a perfectly relaxing day before the big wedding. Yes, those photos are soon to come!

2012-02-04T11:30:00.000-06:00

We arrived in Key West on Monday and as soon as we got our room we were out to the bars to meet up with the rest of the family and friends that were already in town.

Needless to say we had a little fun.

Dusty found himself a cigar. (Kids, if you're reading this, your Daddy is not a smoker, he just has a weak spot for cigars and will smoke one once in a while...)

And after a couple hours I rushed our little group out the door to catch our first sunset on the island.

They have a sunset festival every night so we watched the performers and took lots of photos.

We caught up with everyone again and went to a few more bars and listened to some live music before retiring for the night.

Stacey and Steve got a spray tan the day we showed up, so our white skin looked extra white next to their bronzed sprayed body. Thankfully, we started catching up on our tans by the next day. More to come!

2012-02-03T21:32:00.000-06:00

I apologize for the gap in posts, I had planned on our hotel having internet access and while it did offer wireless, my computer did not want to connect up. So, the next week will be filled with photos like this.

Yup, that would be the bride, my good friend Stacey whom I've known since 7th grade got hitched and we were lucky enough to be invited to attend their small ceremony....in Key West, Florida! We've been in sunny Florida living life as we had prior to having our children all week and let me tell you, it's been fun.

OK, maybe we were in bed quite a bit earlier and a bit more responsible then we would have been back in our younger, childless age, but I think that just means we're more classy now. I wouldn't call it old. I wouldn't! And besides, we had Reb and Joe with us so you know we were still young at heart!

OK, seriously, did they not pick a gorgeous place to get married? And are they not just an amazingly beautiful couple?!

More photos and sharing to come this week! (Oh, and the kids were happy and spoiled with Grammy, Dido, and Auntie Rosie all week. So don't go feeling too bad for them because they didn't get to come along!)

2012-01-29T12:22:00.000-06:00

Two of the neighbor kids, Logan and Ava, showed up at our house yesterday asking if Max and Rory wanted to go sledding with them. How cute is that?!

Max needed a little convincing as Daddy was going to call him later in the day to let him walk over to the neighbors. (Daddy was there helping him and Max really wanted to be able to help too.) Shortly after he saw Rory and I putting our stuff on he decided that staying inside by himself didn't sound all that fun. And fun was definitely delivered!

Logan and Ava had a lot of fun trying out Max and Rory's snowboards.

Max, was pretty much a blur the whole time.He would go down the hill, run back and up and jump right back on his sled.

Rory was just plain cute and we had a lot of fun sledding together, that is, when she didn't sit on the sled before I was ready and take off without me.

My kids have neighbor friends that they go outside and play with. When did this happen?!

2012-01-27T14:02:00.000-06:00

I was mean today. I made the kids stay outside for an hour even though the snow was more like ice pellets and the wind was strong enough to make sure it stung when it hit your face. Now, before you think me a real bully, we had both garages open and most of the time they were found inside one of them playing with their toys. And I was able to get the van vacuumed out, so we no longer have a gravel pit inside the van.

Their reward? Hot chocolate and homemade rock candy.

I think they are going to be just fine. Sugar highs and all.

2012-01-26T07:46:00.000-06:00

We finally made it outdoors. Somebody's prayers must have worked (Could you please pray that I win the lottery next?) and we made it almost 45 minutes outside yesterday afternoon!

Max and Rory had to get those snowboards out right away. Max did pretty good. Rory didn't do so well when I wasn't running next to her. They both learned that falling in the snow really isn't a big deal.

Max made a snow angel.

Rory and I went sledding together.

Shortly after that the kids lost interest and started doing their own things. Which is exactly what we all needed, a little alone time to do whatever we wanted to do without another person getting in our way.

Rory headed for the bushes to sing, then made her way over to the swing set where she remained for the rest of our time outside. Max got his big truck out to plow the snow around, then when that got to be too exhausting he got the shovel and cleared off the patio.

It was perfect.

2012-01-25T13:31:00.000-06:00

This cold weather has me getting a bit stir crazy. Right now? I've got Max plopped down in front of the TV watching Cars 2 while Rory takes her nap. I hate that I feel guilty putting on a long movie and taking a break from my kids but reality is we're all getting on each other's nerves. The fights have been more often, the screaming a lot louder, and the patience levels are pretty much non-existent. So I'm going to try really hard not to feel guilty taking this little break. And you know, attempt to actually breathe.

Can someone please make it less windy on an otherwise beautiful winter day? I'd like to go outside for more then 15 minutes before someone is whining that they are too cold. Thanks in advance!

2012-01-23T12:40:00.000-06:00

Max gets distracted and his aim eventually shoots off target, leaving me to clean the bathrooms at least every other day if not numerous times in one day. I used to love cleaning the bathrooms, it was such a relief having it shiny and clean. Since having kids? Cleaning the bathrooms has become my absolute least favorite chore.

They get toothpaste and soap all over the sink within minutes of it being cleaned, and the toilet, bathtub and walls are constantly covered in water spots that I can only assume is urine. (Although I'm sure there is just some splashed water too, but I'm not taking any chances.) Oh and the smell! It isn't like my bathroom reeks but if I can smell urine (which happens WAY too much) I know I have to scrub down the toilet, walls, tub and anywhere else that may have gotten sprayed in order to get rid off the smell.

I know, you never want to come over and use my bathrooms now...

To be fair? Dusty can't smell the urine smells, it may just be in my brain, either way, it just proves how crazy the bathrooms are making me. Also? My bathrooms are probably some of the cleanest bathrooms around, I mean, they get a scrub down at least every other day thanks to Max. So, be disgusted with me but know you are safe to use my bathrooms!

Now, I know I have told you about Max and his love of stealing foods to eat in his bedroom*. This too is a big annoyance to me as there are constantly crumbs on his bed, under his bed, and anywhere else he chooses to eat in there.

This weekend Max and I had a little chat. And now? If he eats food in his bedroom, he has to clean the toilet. This isn't as horrible as a punishment as it sounds, he actually doesn't mind wiping up the pee spots (as he calls them) and I'm slowly gaining my cool back. Oh, and my bathrooms have currently been cleaned twice a day since we started this rule. (Three times today already.)

I think I'm getting this parenting thing figured out - Don't get mad, get even!

*My children are well fed. They aren't starving and sneaking off to eat for nourishment. They are being kids and finding all the treats that they are allowed to have at snack times or once and a while and are trying to eat them all the time. My frozen cookie stash just got significantly smaller today, I need to find a stronger lid!

2012-01-21T18:29:00.000-06:00

Cousin Lyla joined us on Friday for a day of arts and crafts. We colored, we painted, we cut, we created with Play-doh, and then we did it all over again and again and again.

Dusty had some old blue prints that were big enough to trace the kid's bodies. That was one of their most favorite activities. (And the most time consuming for me.)

Oh, and we put up the ball pit. Because I needed to make sure they had a way to make an even bigger mess. You know, because I embrace messes with open arms. *Sarcasm is dripping all over this.

Needless to say, that after our evening movie and popcorn everyone went to bed without a fight and slept soundly. So I succeeded.

2012-01-20T19:55:00.000-06:00

Last night, Tara and I were able to go to an open mic night event to watch our cousin Nikii perform. It was really a relaxing evening, and had I not driven an hour and a half to get there, I'd consider doing it more often.

It's tough to get to see my cousins, so whenever we get a chance to I'm always excited. I didn't take any video but believe me, she did an amazing job, and even one guy stopped to let her know just how wonderful she is, so I know I'm not being overly biased.

And yes, Tara did make a sign, because she's good like that.

2012-01-19T14:30:00.000-06:00

So remember how a week ago the kids and I went on a two hour walk in the woods and it was 54 degrees outside when we started? Yeah, that was marvelous! Today? Our school district had a late start because of how cold it was with the wind chill. Negative 20's people! So Max's preschool was canceled and I had to come up with some ideas fast.

Max and I worked on some snowflake art.

Rory attempted the scraping art, although I did something wrong, and Rory didn't quite get the scraping down so it was a bit of a failure.

Anyone remember how that worked again? I drew a bright picture with markers and then attempted to color over it with a black crayon. The crayon did not fully cover like I remember it doing. Was I supposed to use paint or something else? Maybe I was too impatient and needed to spend more time coloring it in?

Oh well, it had her entertained for five minutes, I really wasn't expecting much more then that.

And before I go. A cute picture of Daddy reading to the kids after baths and before bed.

Just melts my heart!

2012-01-18T10:31:00.000-06:00

I'm not going to blackout my blog. Not because I don't support those that have, but simply because my 50 readers who are family and friends, aren't really going to care.

Instead, I'm going to give you a link to the NY Daily News which describes what the SOPA and PIPA bills are and what they are trying to do.

http://www.nydailynews.com/news/national/wikipedia-sopa-pipa-article-1.1007847?pgno=1

Educate yourself and make your own decision.

If you too agree with my view, that these bills allow too much government control, consider signing one of the many petitions out there. Here's one link:

https://www.google.com/landing/takeaction/

Thanks for taking the time to enjoy my political view. I do love me some internet freedoms!

P.S. If you're looking for a good laugh about these bills? Check out http://theoatmeal.com/sopa.

2012-01-17T18:57:00.000-06:00

Today for breakfast I decided to mix some frozen blueberries into the oatmeal I was making the kids. The result was a very purple oatmeal. Rory of course got some on her sweatshirt and we had to get a new sweatshirt to start our day.

While Max was at preschool Rory and I headed to the gym where she played in the playroom while I worked out. Just as I was wrapping up my workout one of the ladies from the playroom came up to me and informed me that Rory had thrown up.

So we came home, changed sweatshirts for the second time that day and lounged around on the couch watching movies. Auntie came over and brought chocolate milk and frosted animal crackers as a treat to help Rory feel better. If she really seemed sick? I wouldn't have let her eat that, but it was pretty apparent that she was fine and it was a one time occurrence. In fact, by the second movie Rory had nothing but energy and played more then she sat and watched the movie.

Today I am thankful. My daughter was only sick for a moment but it gave us an excuse to do nothing all day. And even better? No purple vomit for this girl to clean up, although I do think I owe a small gift to the gym daycare ladies now.

2012-01-16T11:59:00.000-06:00

This weekend we were able to stick around home which is always appreciated. We spent a lot of time with family and friends throughout the weekend but since we were home relaxing I didn't take out my camera. Dusty took a picture of the two kids moving one of the wood pellet bags. Apparently they saw Daddy moving them and decided to move one themselves.

Did you notice Rory's skirt? Her new favorite thing to do in the morning is to take the skirt off of her stuffed bunny and wear it around. And on Sunday evening she started playing in all my sisters and my old dance costumes, which was uber adorable!

It was fun to spend time with Auntie Katie, Uncle Andrew, Lyla and Nora. Max and Lyla got to go fishing with the daddies while the younger two stayed home for their naps. I even got to do a full bag change on Nora which was really exciting for me! (Although I haven't heard if it's held up yet.) Uncle Randy and Auntie Tata also stopped by to spend time with us this weekend, so while we were being lazy and sticking around home, we certainly stayed busy.

2012-01-12T14:16:00.000-06:00

Max decided that he needed to write a note today to Daddy's friend Jeff. Jeff and Daddy went ice fishing together last week and we bumped into Jeff yesterday while at the grocery store. So Max has decided that he needs to let Jeff know that he can go fishing with him. (And no, not with Daddy.)

Do you think he'll understand that note? Also, how adorable is it that he used little shapes for the letters instead of just scribbling all over?! Sorry it's in pencil and not very dark but I think you can still get the picture.

I apologize for the grainy photo, my phone's camera can't seem to stay clean. If you click it to make it larger, you can better make out his writing.

2012-01-11T08:00:00.001-06:00

The kids and I enjoyed a lovely walk today at the state park. I think I'll share some of the details from that walk scattered throughout this post along with the photos. You know, because I took 107 photos - all in manual mode - I know you're impressed! And no, not all of them look good.

An example of a really great photo that ended up over exposed:

Using manual on the kids is hard because if I get it wrong the first time the subsequent photos with the right exposure are not going to be with the same pose which can be really frustrating!

The kids and I walked 3.5 miles (give or take a couple tenths) as there is one section of the map that is not marked for mileage.

Rory fell and I tried to distract her so she'd stop crying by asking her where it hurt. Imagine my surprise when she yelled back, "MY BUTT CRACK!"

This took us over 2 hours, and yes, I did have the stroller for Rory otherwise we would have never made it out by nightfall. She loves to doddle.

We sang songs on the last trek of our walk. I was taking requests so when Max asked that I sing the "gurl, look at that body" song, I obliged and sang I'm Sexy and I Know it by LMFAO. We did a lot of wiggling during that song. (For the record, I've trained my kids to scream "Daddy's song" whenever this comes on the radio. I don't think I will ever achieve something this great again.)

Both kids fell into puddles. Rory fell first and she somehow had the smarts to keep her butt in the air resulting in very little damage.

Max fell into a much larger puddle and got drenched. He decided we should continue on to the waterfall but only stay for "6 minutes".

When we started our walk it was 54 degrees; when we returned it was 44. Of course, this is off my car thermometer so I can't promise just how accurate it was but you get the idea.

We saw dozens of swans - we counted 6 separate groupings that flew overhead as we neared the end. They have a unique honk sound that can really scare you if you don't know they're coming!

The reason the swans look pink? The sun was setting just past the tree line and that was the color reflecting off of them. How cool is that?!

2012-01-10T13:07:00.000-06:00

Just a couple stories today, after all, we've been very photo heavy lately!

My kids have made up their own language, and by that I mean they are mixing up words that we don't use on a regular basis or are hard to say. When we go to the gym for the bounce house there is a blow up obstacle course there. The kids can't say obstacle so they constantly talk about the "Popsicle" at the gym. And if that isn't cute enough, while we were pulling into Como Zoo yesterday Max saw Como Town's roller coaster and asked if he could ride on the "roller skate". Yes, my kids really are that cute.
Something not so cute? Max and Rory have been sneaking out of bed. Max will go and open Rory's door then they move all of the blankets and stuffed animals on Rory's bed into Max's room and from there they do any number of things. There has been fruit thievery, lotions squirted onto the carpeting, pages cut out of books, I tell you it's been bad. So bad we've resorted to locking their rooms until they are asleep. We always give them a chance to stay in their rooms nicely first, but the last three days have led to the last three incidents I've listed. So, it's been a challenge, to say the least.
Speaking of sleeping. Rory has been staying up way too late the last couple weeks. I keep convincing myself that she is just curious because every night at least twice, sometimes three times, she will come out of her room to find us and then after she sees where we are she turns around and goes right back to bed. I can't figure out if she just needs reassurance that we're still here or if there is something else going on, but it sure is creepy to suddenly see a little curl stick out of your moving bedroom door at 9:30 at night! This hasn't been such an issue since she's discovered all the fun she can have with her brother, which we're working on. (Read previous number.)
I met with Max's preschool teacher last week, we were getting concerned because Max seems to dislike his preschool teacher and it's starting to cause problems with getting him to go to school in the morning. His teacher is great, and while I don't know what exactly is leading to this problem I do have confidence in his teacher and trust that she is not doing anything to cause this. I left the meeting feeling not so great. I mean first of all I had to tell her my son doesn't like her and second of all it isn't like we could just have a solution ready to go. She's been working with him a little more one-on-one when she can without trying to give him any special treatment over the other kids (which was a concern of mine) and already it seems to be helping. While he still will insist that he doesn't like her, he's going to school happy. So I'm going to consider that a good sign and just know that I too didn't always like my teachers but still enjoyed school. (Any advice here is always welcome.)
I never did get around to writing a blog post on my 5 days of Pinterest recipes. A few weeks ago now I made a new recipe for the whole work week. Three of them were super yummy and worth sharing (the other two, not so much, but hey, I tried something new) so if you're interested; Pork Pot Stickers, Cilantro Lime Shrimp, Twice Baked Potato Casserole, and while this wasn't during my recipe challenge, it was amazing, Beer Cheese Bread good luck not eating the whole loaf yourself! Seriously? It was fun trying a bunch of new things, and gives me a little more appreciation for some of our regular meals too, I think I'll do that again once I get enough new recipes I want to try again.

I think that's everything I've been wanting to share. We've been really enjoying this weather. Not only did we go to the zoo yesterday but Daddy also pulled out the four wheeler for the kids and they had a blast. Today we're planning another walk at the State Park once Rory wakes up. It's supposed to cool off tomorrow and remain that way for a while, so we're not wasting anytime over here, we're heading outside!

2012-01-09T15:58:00.000-06:00

We spent the morning at Como Zoo today with Becca, Conan and Grammy. Thanks to our warm winter it was a really awesome visit to the zoo and we had some amazing interactions with the animals! Our first stop was the monkey house where Max made a new best friend.

Grammy got up close to the big gorilla, two minutes prior to this shot he was throwing his hay at the window and giving everyone the glare but once he sat down Grammy went up to say hello.

We made our way over to the Polar Bears and not only did we get to watch this big guy finally jump into the water after a few moments of prepping (he was rocking back and forth on the edge of the water just building up the anticipation for his crowd) but then he continued to swim over to where the kids were and would lift himself up before doing a back flop into the water. It was so cool!

We also got up close and personal with some Koi fish.

See what I mean about some awesome animal interactions? That doesn't happen every day! Here are some more favorite photos from the zoo while visiting other animals and places.

Rory demonstrated her seal bark for us while watching Sparky the Sea Lion.

Conan was being his bashful, handsome self.

I got our mandatory giraffe picture. Someday I'll have to do something with all of the photos I have of them with the giraffes.

Rory was very intently popping bubbles as they trickled over from one of the many fountains.

Conan watching and learning how to be naughty and put your hands in the fountains.

Max, found a puddle. I had to get an action sequence.

Beautifully pregnant Becca escorting Conan and Rory.

Oh my gosh, once again an extremely photo-heavy blog! Needless to say, we had a great time.

2012-01-08T21:34:00.000-06:00

Today Dusty and I helped Uncle Jeff with the cows. It was a blast, as always, and extremely exhausting. Grammy brought the kids out for a little while. Rory played by herself, she was content finding branches and walking around making up her own little stories.

Max? Well Max was there to work, according to him. So Daddy took him out to walk over a few cows. It was supposed to be easy but of course it wasn't.

That picture there? That would be the four cows that they had to chase. Dusty had Max sit down out of harm's way. But if you zoom in on this picture, that would be Max sitting on just the other side of the electric fence, right in front of where those cows came running.

Now, to be fair, there actually was a larger space between Max and those cows then what the picture shows. And, the cows never did get that close to him. So I had to show it off, because it is funny, and something I will never, ever, ever, ever, ever, let Dusty forget. 'Cause I'm good like that.

2012-01-06T12:19:00.000-06:00

The last couple days have been beautiful. You know what I mean, melting snow, upper 30's, basically spring weather in January. While I do wish I could take out my cross country skis, I'm not complaining either, it's been so nice to be able to spend a significant amount of time outdoors.

Yesterday, Max and I played a little baseball in the driveway. We played baseball, in the middle of January, and we weren't cold. Amazing.

And today we tried out a new path at the state park. While walking along the river we came upon an otter that started showing off for us. Did you read that? We got our own private viewing of an otter, in the wild, and not only did he not swim away but he started jumping up and down on the ice ledge showing off for us and playing with his food! I wish I would have had my camera, that isn't something you see everyday.

So I'm content with this weather for now. I realize a lot of people disagree with me and that's fine. I'm still happy.

2012-01-05T12:44:00.000-06:00

There once was a cantaloupe who was living a lovely life in the warm sunny tropics. One day the farmer came by and told him it was time for him to go and do great things with his life and he was picked and put in a crate with many other cantaloupe.

The next time the cantaloupe saw light he was being unpacked into a store that was very cold but he was still with his other cantaloupe friends so he was happy and excited to see what great things he could do. He watched as hour by hour people came by, examined him and his friends, and then would take one of his friends away. After a couple days, he was boxed up with his other friends and brought to a discount grocery store where he again watched as people examined his friends and himself before taking one of his friends away.

Mr. Cantaloupe was getting pretty sad. All his friends were getting picked, one by one, and he continued to get put back onto the shelf. Was this to be it? Was his great thing to rot on a shelf with the other left over produce?

Then one day, along came a boy. His mother was very preoccupied as she had never been to this discount grocery store before and so as she tried to familiarize herself with the products and prices the little boy was walking back and forth down the aisles. Many a times there was a "Max, I told you that you have to stay were I can see you." Or a "Remember, look with your hands, not your eyes." That cantaloupe knew, now was his chance. He slid himself within the little boys' grasp and plumped himself up to looking oh-so-very appealing and his plan worked! The little boy scooped him up and started to bring him to his mother.

Splat!

Oh, the boy dropped him.

But don't worry, outside of the small bruise he was still fine. And the mother, very irritated, was not about to put back a bruised cantaloupe for someone else to buy. (Especially with the two evil ladies looking with their judgy eyes.) So the cantaloupe was happily brought to the little boys home where he heard "We'll eat it for breakfast."

Alas, the cantaloupe knew that his inevitable doom was near so he once again moved himself within the little boy's grasp and once again tried to plump up his bruised body. And once again, he succeeded, for that very night after the little boy was supposed to be in bed, he sneaked out to the kitchen and grabbed the cantaloupe.

Oh, was that naughty cantaloupe so happy, he was saved!

Except he wasn't.

For the next morning the little boy's mother found in her son's bed a wet cantaloupe who's skin was peeled by a little boy's teeth and who's body was so soft the mother had no choice but to throw it away. And when she asked the little boy what happened to the cantaloupe he replied that he was beating it up.

The moral of the story? Don't trust cantaloupe at discount stores, they're just there to cause trouble.

And also? Hide the fruit. Because not only was the cantaloupe stolen in the night but the oranges and grapes were accomplices to the murder.We are now out of fresh produce - you know the next morning after going to the grocery store - Argh...

2012-01-04T14:21:00.000-06:00

Last night we celebrated our last Christmas with my cousins. It's always hard for me to talk when we're out at a restaurant since I've usually got to keep an eye on both my kids on top of trying to carry on a conversation and eat, but I played musical chairs a lot and was able to catch up at least a little bit. After dinner we took some pictures since we were all together.

Here's all the cousins.

And all the grandkids and great grandkids. (Poor Grandma got lost on the drive and after an hour finally threw in the towel and went home.)

Lastly, me with my cousins, because I wanted a picture with them.

Hopefully I'll get to see them again really soon as Tara and I are hoping to watch Nikii at the next open mic night she is planning to sing at. My fingers are crossed that it all works out!

2012-01-03T13:20:00.000-06:00

We rang in the New Year up at the lake this year. Grandma, Bopa, Julie and Tom were kind enough to let us barge in on their celebration. Of course, the real reason we were up there had nothing to do with New Year's and everything to do with an extra day of fishing!

Yes, my boys really do love the sport of fishing, I'm just going to have to accept that.

Of course, it helps when you catch your own little fish.

Rory wasn't really into all the fishing, but if you were always left behind whenever a flag popped up would you really be into it?

Don't you worry, the poor little girl was perfectly content playing by herself inside where Max wasn't around to take her toys or tell her how to play. And when everyone was inside? Well there was plenty of time for Grandma and Bopa to play!

It was a nice weekend at the lake, with a great group of people, I mean look at how much fun we were having.

Happy New Year everyone, I hope 2012 is your best year yet!

2011-12-31T08:00:00.001-06:00

I decided to do another recap of our year. It is so hard to narrow down each month to just a few pictures to share but it is fun to look at the final result. And I can never get over how much the kids grow. Enjoy the photo recap!

January:
Lyla stayed with us for a long weekend and the three of them found all sorts of interesting ways to stay entertained. Look at those adorable bows!

Let's not forget that ice fishing season was also well underway and Max made sure to help pull up every last one of those big fish!

Birthday celebration at Acapulcos, in other words, another excuse for Grandma and Bopa to get together with their favorite grandbabies.

February:
Remember that time I found Max and Rory in the tub, with their clothes on? Yeah, I don't think I'll ever forget that day.

I took my solo vacation to Miami in February too. The weather was not as warm as I had hoped but the peace and quiet was everything I wished for.

March:

The mean mommy puts the kids to work washing the dishes.

March 1st was my first day home as a stay at home mom, shortly after we got together with Kristen and her boys to celebrate my new life change. Needless to say, we all had fun!

We also paid a visit to GG John. We knew his days were getting numbered and it was really nice to get to visit with him and have him laughing at his great grandchildren.

GG also accompanied us to the Minnesota Zoo. If you don't remember, she showed up in a mink fur coat. It will be one of my most cherished memories.

April:

We finished up our first tumbling class. The children had a blast and it has led to many more exciting classes at our gym.

Everything is starting to defrost, and Max is bringing mud, mud, and more mud into my home. I may be going a little crazy.

My cousin Gwenda married her love, Matt, and the whole family was able to help her celebrate!

May:
Max turned 3 and apparently became old enough to own his own four wheeler. He was pretty pumped about all his presents although I think it was mainly just having all the attention on him that really made him happy.

The kids got busy helping Daddy build our second garage.

Our newest cousin, Nora Wynn, joined our family on May 25th. You can never have too many cousins!

June:
We got an annual pass to Willow River State Park and have fallen madly in love with our walks to the waterfall. We've taken many people with us to show off the parks beauty.

And of course we had the Woodtick Races again this year. You know, where everyone plays in the dirt, eats food, plays with fire? Yeah, that would be my family's annual gathering.

And the gorgeous weather had us out in the lake early this year, much to the kids' approval.

July:
We celebrated our nation's birthday at the lake with family and friends.

And there was the Lumberjack Days Parade in Stillwater with our cousins.

Oh, and remember that day the kids and I took a walk along the river before our lunch plans? And a man caught this huge carp and offered to let Max hold it only to have him bear hug the slimy fish? Yeah, another thing I don't think I'll ever forget. He was so happy...and stinky!

August:
We joined Grammy, Auntie Katie, Lyla, and Nora up at their cabin for a vacation. This is when I got the adorable pictures of all the kids jumping off the dock, be sure to go check those out if you haven't seen them!

With the new garage we had to re-landscape which lead to even more mud and dirt. I think at this point I finally started to accept this. Or at least, I settled down a bit.

Andrea and Rosie helped me bring the kids to the Minnesota State Fair. We had a blast and I hope to do it again next year. Maybe make it a tradition if the girls are up for it?

September:
Max started his first day of preschool. You guys? This picture still makes my heart melt. They were both so happy.

Rory turned 2 and became even more independent.

October:
We were able to sneak out to the farm a few times that summer and fall and help Uncle Jeff manage all his new calves. Because you know he couldn't have done it without Max and Rory's help.

We started preparing for Halloween with our cousins. I'm so glad we do this together every year.

And let's not forget Buzz Lightyear and Woody. Two of the cutest toys you will ever find.

November:
This is when I finally got Dusty to join us for a walk to the waterfalls. We took a different trail back to the car and I snapped this gem. Seriously? If I could do pictures like this every time I took them? My house would be wall to wall photos.

We also visited with Allison and Oliver and took this adorable picture. All of the cousins which was then printed and framed as a present for Grammy and Dido.

After my Grandpa's (GG's) funeral, a big group of us took some of his ashes and dumped them into the creek that he fished and then took a shot of Brandy. It was a great way to remember a great man.

December:
Rory had her first dentist appointment. What a little diva in her sunglasses to protect her eyes.

And to round out the year, we celebrated Christmas with all our family. I just love this picture as I so rarely get to be in front of the camera with both my children.

2011 has been a good year to us. There was sadness and anger, as there always will be, but joy and happiness were far more prominent in our lives. Here's hoping that 2012 is just as good to us!

Happy New Year!

2011-12-28T08:00:00.000-06:00

Christmas morning Max came into our room and instead of crawling into bed with me he crept up next to my ear and whispered, "Mooooooom." When I opened my eyes to look at him he continued on, "Santa came and my pirate ship is under the tree." Talk about heart melting! So Dusty and I were up and played pirates with Max at 7am.

We eventually got Rory up and she was excited to see her Elmo doll.

We had some eggs benedict for breakfast and then got ourselves ready. We wanted to get to my mom's early so we could put Rory down for a nap there and then get her ready afterwards. She was in desperate need of some sleep. We arrived while most everyone was still in their pajamas. Max and Rory gave out their Christmas presents to Grandma and GG.

Max got busy helping GG make the cheesy potatoes. (Yes, he actually did enjoy it contrary to his pout in the picture. My boy and his attitude.)

We had fun opening gifts. Rory showed off her new fashion accessories.

Dusty and I also showed off some of our fashion accessories thanks to Auntie TaTa.

It was nice to have a quiet evening with everyone after all the hustle and bustle of the last couple days. We got the kids home and into bed not much after their regular bedtime knowing full well that the next day would be spent unpacking and finding places for all the new awesome things we received. Here it is Wednesday and we still haven't found a place for just everything yet. Although, we are getting there.

2011-12-27T08:00:00.005-06:00

Christmas eve, evening, we celebrate with Grammy's family. This year was just as fun as every other year we celebrate but there was a definite sadness throughout the house as we're all missing Grandpa. Thankfully, there are lots of small children to keep us entertained and to remind us to enjoy the small things. (And Annette did a great job of sprinkling photos of Grandpa throughout the house!)

We had our Christmas pinata with four kids this year that were in the "little kids" category and got to take swings. Here's Rory, with her one armed swinging.

And Max, and his gigantic swinging.

Max also broke the pinata, look at him proudly holding that snowman's head up for all to see!

Rory's present was a My Little Pony castle set that was a huge hit with all the big girls. They were quick to help her open it up and start playing with it!

Max got a gigantic Nerf gun that we let him take out so he could shoot at his cousins and uncles. Yes, we are really awesome parents. And Max was even nice enough to let Lyla give it a try. (With a little coaxing of course.)

The kids that were too old to play the pinata game got to play the money game instead. I don't really know how to play the game but I do know that the winner, the person that finds the $20, has to sing a Christmas carol. Look at how embarrassed Auntie Rosie is as she had to lead everyone into song!

There was of course more amazing food, and lots of people to talk to and catch up with, and eventually we loaded the kids up and headed home.

This year we started carrying on a tradition that I used to do with my family on Christmas Eve; we had the kids shoot for Santa. In our family, all the kids would go outside and take turns shooting Grandpa's rifle while he held it, and once everyone was done you'd return to the house and find Santa sitting there waiting for you with presents. It's one of my most favorite memories with my grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins, and something that really bonded us as it's not a common tradition. With my Grandpa gone, and my kids finally old enough to start making holiday memories, I knew it was time to fit this in. So our new tradition has us shooting for Santa when we get home to let him know that we are now home and ready for him to visit. Daddy got out the pellet gun and both kids took turns shooting it with Daddy's help.

You guys? It was perfect. The kids were excited, they knew that Santa knew they were home now, and I got to share something that was so special to me with them. I can't even describe the joy it gives me. So afterwards, the kids were exhausted and crashed in their beds while Daddy and I stayed up just a little bit later to "prepare" the house for Santa's visit before we too crawled into bed, exhausted.

2011-12-26T15:46:00.000-06:00

We had three Christmas celebrations over Christmas eve and Christmas day. So in order to space out all the photos I think we're going to separate this into three different posts. Of course, that also requires me to get the pictures I took on my mom's camera, because Christmas day? I forgot our camera. There may have been some tears in the car when I realized it was forgotten and we were long past the point of return.

Christmas Eve actually started out at home. Dusty was kind enough to get a picture of me and my two lovely children before we got dirty. (They're 2 and 3, I was smart people!)

And as we were packing up to leave, Chris stopped over with gifts for the kids...rifles.

The best part about the rifles is that both of them had a recommended age limit that was exactly 3 years over the age they are. It was really funny, and the kids of course loved them.

Once we visited with Chris for a while we headed out to our first Christmas with Dido's family. Here we met up with cousin Lyla who looked so cute with her teddy bear tights we had to show them off!

And Dusty got in some cuddles with Nora. (Notice Lyla and Nora had matching dresses? Adorable!)

Rory and Lyla were kind enough to let me take a picture of them, with their tongues out...

Anna's kitty was teasing the kids all day by walking along the beams in the ceiling where the kids could not get to her. Uncle Ed was watching Kitty with the kids here.

The kids all got spoiled with numerous presents. Here are Katherine, Rosemary and Ashley watching them open all their gifts.

We also had an amazing ham dinner with more hor d'oeuvres and sides then we knew what to do with. It really was heavenly. After dinner we all visited some more before we needed to pack up and head to the next Christmas celebration. I'll share more on that tomorrow.

2011-12-23T13:15:00.000-06:00

Dusty lost his Grandfather today. Bill was an amazing Grandpa whom Dusty looked up to regularly and loved dearly. The kids and I always enjoyed our time with him. This picture was taken at the 90th birthday celebration we had for both him and Aunt June.

June turned 90 in November and Grandpa just missed his 90th birthday which would have been January 13th. A joke had just been shared after we sang Happy Birthday and I absolutely love the smile and glow in his eyes here.

You will be missed Grandpa.

2011-12-22T12:54:00.000-06:00

OK guys, it's time to share the stories I've been saving up all week. It disgusts me how I always thought I wouldn't be that mom, the one with the kids that act out or are uncontrolable. I realize now, you really have no choice, they may be perfect angels one day and the next day they are the complete opposite. Parenthood is something different, that's for sure!

Monday:
Max was being silly and he likes to use bad words when he is being silly. Usually it's stupid, shut up, you know, bad words to our family. So when I thought I heard him say, "F***" I had to ask him to say it again just to be sure. Yup, that's what he said. So I looked at him and told him that we don't say that word. He got a really confused look on his face and said, "But I didn't say F***ing A."

Oh boy, yes, we have had to have that saying discussed before, so at least I know it stuck because I had never heard him say that again until just that moment. I just had a feeling it was going to be a long week after that discussion.

Tuesday:
I had recently been thinking to myself how happy I was that neither of my kids put up much of a stink about their nap times. I'm getting to the point where if I even think something I get scared and want to knock on wood. Sure enough, on Tuesday when I told Rory it was bedtime she started crying and screaming at me that she didn't want to go to bed. When I went over to her and scooped her up, she whacked me right on my temple, hard enough to leave a red mark! And since it was square on my temple, I had an instant headache. Let me tell you, there was no difficulty with me getting her into her bed and fast after that.

Wednesday:
Dusty and I had sealed the windows in both kids' rooms over the weekend. Maya had punched a small hole in Rory's that I was going to patch up but on Wednesday Max decided to rip the hole plastic covering along the bottom. He was talked to about this and I ripped it off since we were going to have to replace it. Later that day I went into Max's room to see that he had also ripped the plastic along the bottom of his window! So much for sealing the windows from the cold this year, they can just suffer.

I've been trying all new recipes this week from Pinterest and yesterday's recipe required rice so I had the rice maker out and running. Rory decided to unplug the rice maker in the middle of cooking our dinner. So much for having a dinner on time that night!

Today I'm just trying to survive. They haven't done anything really note worthy yet and I'm hoping maybe, just maybe, they've finally reined it in a bit. At least for my sanity, I really hope they have!

2011-12-21T14:02:00.000-06:00

Today I decided to quarantine my children. Christmas Eve is on Saturday and just about everyone on my Facebook and Twitter feeds are complaining about the flu. Yes, the kids did get their flu shot this year but do I really want to tempt the fates?!

So I had to think of activities, and fast. Say hello to sugar cutout cookies. (Thanks Brooke for the phone call yesterday, I don't think this would have been my first choice of crafts had we not just discussed cookies.)

I don't think Max or Rory really grasped keeping the cookie cutters within the dough as both of them left one sticking outside of the dough.

Max:

Rory:

After those beautiful pictures I went to remove the cookies and this is where it all went terribly wrong.

Yup, the dough was WAY too soft and would not hold it's form. (It even sat in the fridge for 20 minutes.) I'd call it a rookie error but the truth is, whenever I make cutout cookie dough from scratch I inevitably fail. Don't you worry though, I still call this a win because less then 20 minutes later our first batch of sugar cookie (now drops) were cooled enough on the rack for the icing.

Max and Rory whipped it up themselves and then got very serious with the application.

Oh, and of course licking their knives.

So I win, because we still had yummy sugar cookies that let the kids play with their cookie cutouts, (even if it didn't work,) they were able to ice their own cookies, and they even helped clean up the mess.

OK, maybe that made a bigger mess but it was an activity that took up quite a bit of time without any whining. So like I said, I win.

2011-12-20T12:56:00.000-06:00

If this week continues on the path it has started, I'm going to have one heck of a "stories" post to share later this week. I've had some very naughty children. Today though, we'll focus on the kids enjoying their new Christmas presents.

Remember how I talked of all the musical instruments we came home with? Say hello to drummer Rory!

Max also got a Tag Junior which reads the books to him. The kids do enjoy listening to the book being read, but once it's done it has somehow been decided that Mommy needs to read it to. So much for having a substitute book reader!

Max also really enjoys his cars that he got. He and Rory have been driving them all over the house. Thankfully Max has been really good about cleaning them all up, I have yet to step on a random car left on the floor.

And I think the most funny gift has been their cowboy boots. I got down their cowboy hats from the State Fair and they run around the house yelling "Giddy Up!" So stinking funny.

I'd say that Christmas so far has been a win in the entertainment department. The kids have yet to lose interest in any of the toys they've received.

2011-12-19T07:51:00.001-06:00

On Sunday Max and I decided to take Maya for a walk down to the waterfall while Daddy did some things around the house and Rory took her nap. The paths were a bit icy, and Max decided to carry on a conversation with himself the whole walk which required lots of stopping, so it went a lot slower then I had thought.

Seeing the ice all along the edges of the waterfalls was definitely worth the wait.

And since it was just Max, Maya and I, we decided to finally make the trek up the stairs to check out the view. It puts you directly above the waterfalls, so here is looking straight down.

And if you look straight across you can see quite a long ways off, you can't tell in this picture but we could see the smoke stack from the power plant in Minnesota.

Max was pretty excited to just point out how high we were. I don't think there is a fear of heights in this boy.

Here's a picture of us descending the steps, we're about a 1/4 of the way down. If you look carefully you can see it bending and weaving quite a long ways down still. This is why I hadn't braved it with both kids, it's just a bit too nerve racking.

We had a lot of fun, it was a beautiful day as the temperatures were above 40 degrees. I obviously shot all these pictures from my phone, I didn't feel like lugging my camera while also leading Maya on the leash which ended up being a really good decision as I hadn't factored in just how icy the paths would be. I don't know if we'll be able to walk down there again until the spring, so I'm glad we went.

2011-12-18T16:55:00.000-06:00

OK guys, I'm going to be going a little picture crazy in this post, I've got 14 and I swear I really tried to cut them down. When you celebrate Christmas, you just sort of go a little picture crazy, so only the very best, or the best for story telling are here. I know you'll still enjoy them, even if it does take a little bit longer to view!

Grammy and Dido spoiled us again this year. We had beef burgundy and seafood alfredo (loaded with lobster, shrimp and scallops) for dinner. As you can tell, the boys were pretty dang excited. Poor Grammy had way too many cooks in the kitchen!

Maya showed up in a Christmas outfit. How can you not love that?

Max, Lyla, and Rory were the stars of the show last night. Of course being 3 and 2 years old, it is sort of hard for anyone else to compete. And thankfully they are really great about posing for pictures.

Oh, and yes, Rory is giving Lyla a choke hold in that photo.

Did I mention Rory's outfit? Because we were on outfit number three for the day by the time we finally made it and she insisted on the pink leg warmers with her dress. Hello 80's child!

Nora showed off her new skill, which I titled, The Upside Down Inch Worm. This girl lays on her back and then arches onto her head and heels to scoot herself forward!

No wonder she's losing all the hair on the back of her head! How cute is she?!

This year I had the kids pick out the gifts for their Godparents. Rory picked out pink fishing lures for her Godfather's and Max decided that Katie and Andrew need some black (Irish Cream) and green (Sour Apple Pucker) for their new bar. Andrew had a good laugh at that combination gift!

Nora was a champ and bounced around in a bouncer for a good part of the gift opening and once she got a bit fussy, don't you worry, Auntie Ashley was there to the rescue! (I do love squeezing that girl!)

Grammy was very excited to get her new Le Creuset pan.

And Dido got to open the present that all their grandchildren gave to them. I think it turned out pretty good, don't you? (Yes, I am biased as I was the photographer.)

Max, Lyla, and Rory all got new cowboy/girl boots from Grammy and Dido. Tell me they're not adorable!

And don't you worry, while Max, Rory and Lyla may have stolen the show Nora certainly wasn't far behind!

Of course we got another picture of Grammy and Dido with their Grandchildren! (Oliver wasn't able to celebrate with us this year so we're short one.) Katie and Andrew were in charge of the PJ's this year, aren't the Santa cows adorable?!

We all had a really great time! The kids have been talking about it all day while playing with all their new toys. And guess what? No headache from the all the new musical instruments. I think we may just be winning at Christmas this year!

2011-12-17T11:10:00.000-06:00

We snuck in another visit with Santa today. Our gym had a breakfast with Santa, and while we didn't actually eat any breakfast, we did visit with Santa.

Note to Santa: Don't ask, "What do you want for Christmas?" when you have more then one kid on your lap. You may just get all of them answering at once.

Today starts our first Christmas celebration with family. I'm really looking forward it!

2011-12-16T20:23:00.000-06:00

It's December 16th and my kids are out playing on their swing set with no snow on the ground. (For the record, it was about 28 degrees when this photo was taken but naturally they must remove their hats as soon as they are out of Mama's reach.)

I'm a bit conflicted about this warmer weather. On the one side, it's a lot nicer not having to bundle the kids up a whole bunch while we're out and about. On the other side, I've got some skis that I've been really looking forward to using. So I guess, really, either way I can be happy, right?

2011-12-15T13:04:00.000-06:00

I lost it today and cried in front of the kids. Surprisingly, this hasn't happened since I became a stay at home mom. I've locked myself in a bathroom or closet and cried, but that has maybe happened a handful of times. This time? I just flat out cried. The reason? They started unwrapping Christmas presents.

I know. Really? The Christmas presents Ashley? I mean, they've done really great so far but I've always been expecting it to happen. So why did it get me so hard? I don't know.

It probably doesn't help that in the last 3 days it's been a comedy of errors. Max spilled his milk, wiped it up, and after all of that Rory decided she too wanted to spill her milk and dumped hers out. (There's been numerous spilled drinks this week, I have no idea why.) Don't forget about the night Rory decided to sleep in her big bed again, but also decided to strip naked and have an accident resulting in a whole queen bed set and mattress needing to be washed. Then there was the day Max had not one, but two accidents, within 30 minutes of each other. And the back talk has become especially terrible lately. So bad that Dusty was completely shocked at how Max was acting when he got home from work, which rarely happens, so at least I know I wasn't hallucinating in my already bad mood.

But really? None of this is that big of a deal. I know that. I also know it's just a stressful time of year. So when I posted on Facebook this morning about how I was the world's worst mother because I would not make more oatmeal, even though there was still quite a bit of oatmeal in his bowl? Which of course led to a screaming crying mess. I had no idea what a good mood it would put me in. I have a good amount of family and friends that are also mothers to toddlers right now. And their stories of how their kids completely lost it on them over something just as mundane? Helped me remember that kids are kids.

So hopefully I can keep it together. I was able to fix the damage on the gifts, get Rory down for her nap and plop Max in front of the TV. Because today? Mama's taking a much needed break from parenting. Maybe tomorrow I'll try again.

2011-12-13T16:33:00.000-06:00

This afternoon when I put Rory down for her nap, she asked to sleep in the big bed in her bedroom. Loving mother that I am, I told her no.

OK, I was nicer then that. I told her that she would be allowed to sleep in the big bed when she was three. I then tucked her into bed and left so she could take her nap. So imagine my surprise when I looked into her room to find this:

Yup, that is the laundry basket turned upside down, and the pile of laundry, it's just hanging out on the floor.

I laughed so hard you guys. How can you stay mad at a determined little girl with this face?!

I refuse to get rid of the toddler bed until she is sleeping through the night potty trained, but I guess we wait and see what Rory does, I mean, it isn't like I'm going to hang out in her room until she falls asleep to make sure she remains in her toddler bed. You can only wage so many battles.

2011-12-12T13:34:00.000-06:00

We had a really quiet weekend which was nice since all the holiday celebrations will be starting real soon. Max has a cold and he woke up really congested and in pain. I convinced him to let me spray some saline up his nose, one puff later and he is crying and looking at me like I was the devil himself! Less then five minutes later? His nose is running, he's smiling, and he's getting really raw from all the wiping he is doing trying to keep his upper lip dry. So I convinced him to let me shove some Kleenex up his nose.

I know, I'm a genius. And it really did stop him from rubbing his upper lip for a while. The poor boy was getting scabs.

Yesterday Dusty and I were getting everything ready for his Grandpa's 90th birthday party and I had told Rory that she'd wear a hair clip. Dusty and I were distracted as we heard the two of them singing in Rory's bedroom, "What's Gonna Work? Teamwork!" (Which just happens to be the Wonderpets Theme Song.) So when the kids reappeared to this?

Well lets just say there may have been some snorting from Mom. Really? We need to sing about team work as we put every single clip in Rory's hair?

It was a piece of art people!

Our weekend wrapped up with Grandpa and Aunt June's 90th birthday parties.* Here's all the Young's that could make it to the birthday party. (Reminder that you can click to make the image larger.)

It was a lot of fun but also really exhausting. I think we all slept well last night!

*I have printed 6 CDs, one for each family, of all the pictures I took that day. I'll bring them to Christmas.

2011-12-10T10:51:00.000-06:00

I signed the kids up for a new class that the gym offers through February. It's basically an open gym format where they setup the inflatable bounce house and obstacle course along with tumbling mats and toys. Last week was our first session and the kids had a blast! The gym had an event planned for our second class so they shortened the time frame for the session and they also gave us only 1/3 of the gym to use as the rest was being setup for the event they had planned. This left things awfully crowded and there were a bit more bumps and bruises occurring.

Rory kept getting into confrontations with all the extra kids she had to share equipment with. If you don't know this, I'm a stand and watch type of parent, I like to see if the kids can solve their own issues before getting involved. So while I was surprised to see Rory quick to defend her turf, I silently stood by and made sure it wouldn't get out of hand. Usually she'd lose interest, every now and then I'd have to remind her that the equipment is everybody's to play with or I'd have to remove her. Pretty standard stuff for a two year old.

As surprising as Rory's assertiveness was, Max's protection of Rory was astounding! Whenever Rory got upset with someone playing with or taking a piece of equipment away and Max saw Rory get into an argument? He would run over and get between Rory and the other kid and either get up into the other kids face or sit on the object and proclaim, "That's Rory's!"

You guys, it was like watching a mob movie where someone starts to get into a verbal argument with the mobster and one if his cronies comes in to finish the job for him. Rory would usually just completely lose interest once Max showed up as if it was no longer her problem!

Now, I remember playing at playgrounds with my sisters and the three of us sticking up for each other, but being the parent on the sidelines is just a completely different experience. It's certainly led to some interesting conversations with my kids as we work on sharing, empathy, and finding out the whole story before picking sides. I think this new class is going to give us a lot more work then I bargained for!

2011-12-08T20:57:00.000-06:00

I think this week is all about the photos, and today I have lots of lovely brother sister bonding photos.

First though, our Christmas tree all lit up, because you have to post one of these every year!

Since we spend so much more time indoors the kids obviously have to find other ways to get their energy out. One of their favorite things to do is to rock in the La-Z-Boys. Naturally they figured out if they rock together they go a lot faster!

Another favorite of theirs is to run down the hallway over and over again. They act as though they are racing, they start with their backs against the wall and then one of them yells "GO!"

Although really, one of them usually starts running at least two steps before the other one starts. So since they don't go banging into each other, I let it go. Yes running in the house is bad, but getting their energy out in a pretty safe way is good, so I'm going with it.

Even better? When they stop what they are doing and yell "cheese" so Mommy will take their picture. Yes, they really are trained well.

And the best way to end the night? Have (future) Auntie Ashley read a bedtime story.

Oh what a great day!

2011-12-07T13:15:00.000-06:00

Today Rory had her first dental cleaning. She did amazing and never once tried to get out of the chair or stop them from cleaning her teeth. They gave her some styling sunglasses to shade her eyes while they cleaned her teeth.

And since it is Rory, she naturally had to add her own flare and strike a relaxed pose. I really do love that silly girl!

Max also got his teeth cleaned. He went first, jumped in the chair, and told me I didn't have to sit with him. Talk about a big boy! He didn't quite enjoy the flossing and did try to stop it, but once that was done he parked himself in a chair and watched the movie on the ceiling for the rest of the visit. (Which also included my cleaning, so 2 hours later we finally got out of there.)

They both were extremely well behaved for how long we were there. Of course, it helped when I could remind them that if they weren't good we would not be decorating the Christmas tree today. Of course, that worked like a charm. So as soon as we got home the kids got busy!

After all our hard work we were finally able to tuck the tree into the corner and cover the tree skirt with all the presents!

Yes, that is a picture of the kids with Maya. As Rory and Max will tell you, we don't need a dog, we have Maya! (And we really missed her a lot the last few weeks, it's great to have her back for doggie daycare.)

2011-12-06T19:44:00.000-06:00

Just a couple quick photos.

First, the sunset tonight, so beautiful!

And Rory really enjoyed her shrimp fettuccine alfredo today. But her fork? Well, that became much too complicated to work. Here she is attempting to scoop the noodles with her fork, although they just slide up the fork.

Then we get the food shoveled in our mouth with the fork still in hand.

Finally, she drops the fork and just shovels it all in. I do love that goofy little girl.

And lastly, Christmas Tree shopping! Daddy found us the perfect tree, if you consider a tree under 6 feet perfect.

Although, we did support the local boy scouts yet again.

Max fell asleep right before we got there so he was pretty out of it but Rory sure had fun looking around at all the trees! Tomorrow, we decorate.

2011-12-05T08:00:00.001-06:00

Since November 17th I have slept in my bed only 4 nights. That's right, for the last almost 3 weeks I've been out of my house. First there was traveling for Grandpa's funeral, then it was Thanksgiving, and this last week we've been staying with Rosie and keeping her company while Grammy and Dido enjoyed a vacation.

I wish I could tell you that I made it just fine, that it wasn't a big deal. Reality is that I totally and completely lost it towards the end. The last week was the hardest; not only did we take on Rosie's schedule but we also took on Lyla's for two days too. And I just sort of lost it, as in, I spent one night in bed not sleeping but meal planning for everyone. Because you know, planning meals is so worth staying awake for. (Yes, that last line was totally sarcastic if you didn't pick up on it.)

Max and Rory really did do great. With all the extra TV viewing to make up for the lack of play areas, their energy levels have been higher, wilder, and a bit naughtier but nothing completely unmanageable. I totally understood, and I really did try to be a bit more lenient and to think of creative ways to get them active with what we had.

But today? Today we head back home. To sleep in our own beds and to play with our own toys. I wouldn't change these last three weeks for anything, all the time we got to spend with family and friends made the sacrifice work worth it. I will, however, cherish our quiet little house and our family all snug inside of it just a little bit more.

2011-12-01T19:54:00.000-06:00

I did get a chance to visit with Nora today and not only did she wake up but she also gave me a smile! She's looking great and hopefully they'll get to go home soon.

Lyla spent the morning with us. It snowed overnight so the kids had fun running around getting their noses nice and red before we had to load up. Seriously? I love cousins!

Tonight Dusty, the kids, and I got to go to Auntie Rosie's Lacrosse game. It's the off season so it was more like a scrimmage but it was still really fun. To embarrass her that is!

Once the kids got bored with holding the sign and trying to watch the game, they had a little fun of their own. Max was pretending to be Simba, the Lion King.

Rory was, well being Rory.

Afterwards we all headed to Acapulco's for a delicious dinner. Although, Rosie's potpie (that I may have made her make for dinner last night) was just as delicious.

Needless to say, the kids have really been enjoying all the time they are getting with their Auntie Rosie this week!

2011-11-30T15:47:00.000-06:00

Isn't Auntie Rosie the greatest?!

Lyla is staying with us tonight as Katie and Andrew will be at the hospital with Nora. You can get updates on her surgery, here.

In the meantime, we'll be painting, watching Mickey, coloring on the AquaDoodle and all sorts of other fun things. You know, for tonight, because high energy toddlers require lots of activities.

2011-11-29T20:48:00.000-06:00

Today Max and I attempted another recipe I found on pinterest. (I blame all the cookie making on the holidays, even though it is also a nice way to fill up some time while Rory nap.) This time, it didn't turn out quite as well. Rolling the balls was easy enough, and Max sure had fun.

The white melting chocolate and I are not friends. I'm pretty sure its all my fault for not buying the correct chocolate (I bought the morsels instead of bars because there were not bars at the store we stopped at.) So it was really thick and wouldn't properly coat the balls, and when I attempted to get them to coat, the balls started to fall apart. So the chocolate coating ended up being a cookie and chocolate coating.

And there was also the small issue of there not being enough chocolate since it was going on so thick.

But you know what? The cookies still taste amazing, Max had fun, and everyone got a second night of dessert.

So I'm going to go ahead and still call this a win, I'm a winner people!

2011-11-28T15:29:00.000-06:00

Max helped me make some cookies that I found on Pinterest while Rory napped today.

They were so cute and super easy; no bake and Max can do a lot of the work? SOLD!

Aren't they adorable? Little Acorns! We'll be eating these for dessert tonight.

2011-11-27T15:43:00.000-06:00

The kids went to their first movie at the movie theater!

We saw The Muppets and it was really cute. There were a lot of cameos which had my mom and I laughing but some of the story line was a bit boring for the kids. Thankfully, it was still a really good experience and something fun to do on a rainy day!

2011-11-25T17:30:00.000-06:00

We celebrated Thanksgiving at the lake with Grandma, Bopa, Auntie, Taylor and Uncle Tom this year. Dinner was delicious, if I so say so myself, although I am biased as the Sous-Chef.

After dinner, Max went outside of that window you see in the background, dropped his pants and mooned us while he peed. Not only that, but he also drew pictures while everyone sat inside the window laughing. Seriously, my boy? (Yes, I do have a picture but no, I won't post it for all the internet to see.)

Bopa and Daddy picked up a boat from GG John's house that they wanted to try out to make sure it floated. Grandma and I were really disappointed when it did, it would have been way more fun to watch the boat sink with Bopa in it!

The kids have been putting good use into the tricycle that Bopa brought to the lake. Rory took it down the big hill, spilling one time but that didn't stop her from doing it again.

*Please note Daddy giggling as his daughter is sprawled out on the ground.

Grandma and Bopa made an obstacle course for Max. Tell me these pictures aren't hilarious!

*Yes, they do let the kids ride the tricycle indoors, I know, GRANDPARENTS!

Needless to say, Thanksgiving has been fun for everyone again this year. And I'm really looking forward to having Thanksgiving dinner again tonight, yummy!

2011-11-23T14:10:00.000-06:00

Brooke came through with the adorable bathtub photos, check them out!

http://danaandbrooke.com/n-3881-eva-does-wisconsin.html

And can someone please convince my skin that it can be that tan again? Where did that coloring come from?!

2011-11-23T08:17:00.000-06:00

Yesterday I was snapping pictures of the kids faces, aiming to capture how beautiful their eyelashes are.

I should have known that my attention to eyelashes would lead to trouble.

That's my son, passed out in my bed, covered in my makeup. Specifically my mascara. Oh boy.

2011-11-21T07:00:00.001-06:00

The kids of course, also had a fun time while at the lake with Grandma. She bought them new sticker books which they worked very diligently on.

After the first snowfall of the season we took a walk and got our faces all red before coming back in to enjoy some hot cocoa. (No marshmallows for Max of course.)

Grandma and I did a good job knocking them out before heading home. This is the first time, in a long time, that both kids slept the entire drive home and woke up when I pulled into the driveway. (If I tell you I was stopped at a stop sign when I took this picture, will you forgive me for taking it while being the driver?)

We got home and decided to get our new snow gear out so we could really play in the snow since I didn't have it with us at the lake.

I have to brag here, Max tried out the snowboard and made it all the way down without falling on his very first try!

To be fair, it was going really slow, but he still had the balance to stay up the whole way. I think the neighbors at the other end of the street heard me screaming when he reached the bottom.

Rory also attempted the snowboard, but required me to run along side her so I could help her balance. She did make large strides before loosing her balance and grabbing my hand, but there was no way I'd attempt to help her and take pictures so you'll just have to trust me until I can get someone else out here to capture it!

I also taught the kids how to make snow angels. (Left to Right: Max, Rory, Mama's)

It was such a beautiful afternoon in the sun and in the first snowfall. I hope we get to do that again real soon!

2011-11-20T21:16:00.000-06:00

Thanks for waiting, the pictures are loaded and I'm ready to brag about the amazing family I have.

Wednesday evening the kids and I went to the airport to pick up Brooke, Dana and Eva as they were flying in from San Diego to come home for Grandpa's funeral. Max was so excited to get to go to the airport and since leaving he has been back to visit the airport many times while playing pretend! Brooke and I had to get the kids in the bathtub together of course.

She has a picture of all us kids in the tub together when we were little. If she decides to go forward with her blog post idea of posting both the past and present bath pictures, I promise to link up to it, as I know you want to see itty bitty adorable little Ashley in the tub with her sisters and cousins. (Hee hee!)

Thursday we headed up to my parent's lakehouse where Judy met us as she was bringing Brooke, Dana and her grandbaby, Eva, home with her. Thankfully, Granny Judy was willing to share her attention not only with Eva but with Max and Rory too. They wouldn't really leave her alone!

The funeral was very nice. A lot of the family was able to make it, including all of the grandchildren and great grandchildren. Max fell asleep on Grandma towards the end of the ceremony and while Auntie Andrea sang Amazing Grace, Rory attempted to sing along with her. After the funeral we had a nice lunch and were able to take quite a few pictures.

My family:

Grandpa and Grandma's children, minus Aunt Jeannie:

The Grandchildren, minus Pat Jr. who did attend the funeral but wasn't able to join us afterwards:

Later that evening, Uncle Tom took us out to a bridge that was upstream of Grandpa's fishing hole. Apparently, this fishing hole was well known as John's fishing hole and no one would dare fish it but instead would go around it. It was cute to hear that story.

Uncle Tom also brought a bottle of Brandy so we could all take a shot for Grandpa, which was his drink of choice. I had my tripod with and used the self timer on my camera for the first time. This is the first picture, prior to anyone taking a drink. (Reminder, to see a larger image, click the photo.)

Here is the fourth and last picture, after many had taken a shot. (Lots of us shared because a full shot of Brandy was too much to handle.) Needless to say, Grandpa can still out drink a lot of us!

After the shot, Uncle Tom sent the ashes over the bridge and talked about how they would end up in Lake Superior so Grandpa could fish the lake trout. They will also leave some ashes at his deer stand, because you know Grandpa isn't one to miss hunting opener. Speaking of which, that very next day was rifle opener, and my mom, the kids, and I were greeted by three deer right outside our window that morning!

It was a busy few days. We had a great time seeing family and celebrating the life that Grandpa and Grandma made but it's also great to be home. Max even said, "thanks for the house" to me when we arrived home this afternoon. I think we all were feeling the need to snuggle down in our beds and attempt to relax before Thanksgiving approaches.

2011-11-19T16:49:00.000-06:00

I can't seem to get my photos to load from the last couple of days, except for this one.

Yes, that is a really awesome picture.

I'd love to tell you all about the last couple days and how great it was to be with my family and celebrate the amazing life of my Grandpa. But pictures are my style, so kindly wait a little longer while I work on getting these pictures uploaded. Thanks!

2011-11-15T14:29:00.000-06:00

I am totally and completely slacking at posting and I expect it will remain this way at least until the week is out and the funeral and family visits are behind us. Of course, then there is Thanksgiving and all the craziness that brings, but hopefully both events will lead to lots of fun family pictures.

Rory has taken to telling you she doesn't like whatever it is you were just discussing. For an example I was telling her that we were going to have pizza with her Auntie and Taylor today. Her only response? "I don't like pizza." Of course, when I told her she didn't have to eat then she suddenly starts yelling, "I like pizza!" When I told her that Brookey, Dana, and Eva would be coming and staying in her room she instantly started telling me, "I don't like Eva." When we got in the car a little while later? She was mad at me because she wanted to go to the airport to pick up Brookey, Dana and Eva. At least this is an easy stage to manage, she eventually comes around to what you wanted.

Max is still very into talking in the 3rd person. Just now? He told me, "Max has to point and talk to you." And while on a walk with Auntie and Taylor he was telling us how, "Max will hold Peanut's leash." Some people want to correct him, Daddy is one of those, always asking him to say the statement as an "I" statement. Me? I'm totally encouraging it. I'll respond back with a question like, "He is?" as if we are talking about somebody else. This may come back to bite me but right now I just think it's cute and I don't really see how it can be harmful. He is forming his sentences very nicely, he just prefers to talk about himself in the third person. It's cute, and I'm going to soak it up while I can.

Oh, and this is a craft they did at the library. We finally made it to a story hour!

Someday, when I'm back at work, I'm going to laugh at how overwhelmed I felt while being a stay at home mom. Of course, I'll insist on having a cleaning service if I go back to work. A girl has to have her priorities!

2011-11-14T12:17:00.000-06:00

Last week I took the kids to meet Santa Clause and get our yearly photo with him.

I know I say this every year, but seriously figure out a way to visit Santa before Thanksgiving. No lines gives Santa lots of time to talk with the kids! They had a really nice time visiting with him. Also? If you can bring a friend and their kid, it makes for a much more entertaining lunch. Thanks for joining us Reb and Jane!

2011-11-12T02:00:00.001-06:00

Heaven gained another angel. I imagine my grandma was giddy with joy when my grandpa showed up. I have to tell you, that fact that it was 11/11/11 and Veteran's Day seems most appropriate as Grandpa was one hell of a guy.

I love you so much Grandpa and I'm really going to miss you.

2011-11-10T15:12:00.000-06:00

You guys? I'm sorry, I just don't have much to write about right now. We've been really busy doing nothing important and to tell the truth I'm in a funk. Dido and Grammy both lost an uncle this past week and we've been told that GG John will be joining his wife (my Grandma in heaven) any day now. While all three of these men have lived long, lovely lives, it still just sort of stinks. So please excuse my little break in blogging. I'll be back soon with lots more funny stories to share.

2011-11-08T18:28:00.000-06:00

Play-Doh and I have a love/hate relationship.

What you don't see is me in the background preparing dinner, sneaking a few pictures, and pulling all the stuck pieces of Play-Doh out of small crevices as the kids play. I love that Play-Doh keeps my kids entertained but I hate that Play-Doh accessories always end up with clogged pieces.

This post brought to you by First World Problems. Enjoy!

2011-11-05T18:33:00.000-05:00

We got Daddy to finally join us on an outing to the waterfalls! (No I do not want to talk about my eye wrinkles, I'm learning to accept the aging process, or at least pretending to accept it while I silently freak out and make asides on my blog.)

I was pretty excited to have him there while I got to try out my new camera with the outdoor lighting on the kids. And can I just say, a picture like this makes the camera completely and totally worth the expense!

Or maybe a picture like this? (I lowered the shutter speed so the water would cascade, how cool is that?!)

And then there is this one, which makes my heart melt into a puddle on the ground. We might have to blow this one up and find a place to frame it.

Have I told you I love my family? Because I do. And this camera? So, so, so awesome. Now, about that face lift...

2011-11-04T13:10:00.000-05:00

This week can come to an end now. I love that the kids and I have things to do but I get overwhelmed when there is so much going on in one week. So today, after skipping a couple days, will be yet another photo dump with stories to share. Thankfully, you all seem to enjoy these.

First off, Rory had her first hair cut. I didn't have my camera with me because I wasn't intending to get her hair cut. I had planned to get Max and my hair trimmed up but then I just decided to go ahead and do hers too while we were there. She did great of course, and I don't even have a real after shot because you'd really never know unless I showed you what to look for. We pretty much just cut off the baby hairs that were getting pretty frizzy and layered up her hair a bit to help the curls pull out.

On Wednesday I let the kids sit down and eat as much Halloween candy as they wanted during lunch. It actually worked out better then I could have hoped as they spent the rest of the afternoon in a sugar comatose instead of super hyper. And I was able to get rid of a lot of candy that day too.

One of the gifts Dusty got for his birthday was a 13 quart Le Creuset pot. You guys? This thing is so huge that Max can sit in it. And we now have a complete collection. They were so pretty I had to get a picture of them!

I finally, just finally, converted Rory's crib into a toddler bed. This needed to be done weeks ago but it just hasn't been on the top of my list. The last week? Rory and Max have either crawled onto the couches and turned on the TV or crawled into bed with me where they jump and talk far too loudly for a still sleepy Mama. So it was time to stop making her hurdle over her crib every morning. And so far? She seems to like it.

And lastly, Daddy taught Max how to thumb wrestle last night. It was pretty cute, even if Max didn't quite get the whole concept. But check out that concentration and triumphant smile!

And folks? That is all I've got today, hopefully you enjoyed it!

2011-11-01T18:53:00.000-05:00

And since the last two days have been crazy...say hello to a quick photo dump and update.

Last night was a lot of fun at Katie and Andrew's. The kids were very sweet at letting us get a bunch of pictures of them in their costumes. Max and Rory love hanging out with their cousins, Lyla and Nora!

And Kenley joined the crowd later to show off her watermelon costume. The two babes didn't make it out trick or treating, but they did get treated like superstars with all the paparazzi photos of them!

Today the kids and I went to lunch with GG, Auntie and Taylor. We had lunch at the mall where the Williams Sonoma store is that GG works at so she was able to show off her grand-babies which made her extra happy.

And today is also Dusty's birthday! He got lots of nice gifts already but the kids and I saved our present for his birthday where we sang to him and had him blow out a candle.

(That's a football balloon in the upper right corner. I realize it looks like a butt, it's not. The kids picked that out for Daddy.)

Since we'd already been out to eat today and the kids were really wound up from spending so much time in the car and restaurant, we didn't get to go out. So the next best thing was to make breakfast for dinner! Dusty loves Eggs Benedict so I whipped that up for everyone to eat and it's been a relaxing evening - with lots of couch and TV time - which is exactly what daddy wanted.

Happy Birthday Daddy! We love you!

2011-10-31T12:41:00.000-05:00

Happy Halloween from Buzz Lightyear and Woody!

You've Got a Friend in Me!

2011-10-30T09:36:00.000-05:00

After stalking Amazon for a week, I finally received my lens for my new camera and saw that my camera body had been checked into the post office. After a very nice phone call with the post office I jetted off there and picked up my camera and was able to get it 2 days early! And also? On a Saturday, when Dusty and the kids were gone, so I had all day to just play around with my new camera. Do you want to know how excited I was? Excited enough to take a picture of the two boxes together!

I soon got bored taking pictures of stationary images. I mean, I got this camera for taking pictures of family and friends, not all the toys around the house. Thankfully Reb was home and she let me jet over there for a couple minutes to take pictures of Jane.

That evening I had Ladies' potsticker night where Bridget and Anna did a great job decorating with fall decor and Halloween fun.

And of course, our chef's did an amazing job, like always.

I'm still learning my new camera, and I haven't had a chance to really do some fun shooting in some natural light, but I am so freaking excited right now. As I stated on Facebook, I'm pretty sure this new camera is going to lead to a paparazzi like lifestyle. You've all been warned.

2011-10-29T09:24:00.001-05:00

It's time to tell some funny stories and talk about how poop is ruining my life. To make things interesting, I'm going to separate each story with some fun pictures from my phone. This way I get to kill two posts at once, and you get to really giggle. Enjoy!

Rory not only has decided she is not going to go #2 on the toilet anymore. But she also decided that she does not enjoy having it in her pull-up and has been scooping it out. She started doing this at Rosemary's birthday party, where the whole family was, and dropped her turd on the floor of Grammy and Dido's house, where her cousin Lyla was kind enough to get a napkin and start picking it up!

Max has started his extra naughty streaks again and started out by sneaking out of bed, taking his toothpaste from the bathroom and started smearing it all over his bedding, himself, and even a couple books before Dusty got to him! That following morning Max got up, climbed up the drawers of our kitchen, crawled/walked over the entire counter top, stove and sink to get to the far corner where the suckers were and helped himself. I found him in bed sucking triumphantly on his sucker. This boy has every plan to give us gray hair prematurely!

In the spirit of Halloween, I've brought down the wigs and fun hats that I've accumulated and the kids have been playing with them. Say hello to Dolly Parton!

Yes, that is, unfortunately, the best picture I had of her in it but seriously, can you imagine the giggles over here with that wig?!

You're welcome internet, you're welcome.

2011-10-26T15:23:00.000-05:00

Today the kids and I went to the Minnesota Children's Museum. Since I've been almost fully in charge of the kids these last couple days (Dusty has been working odd hours and has had other plans) it's been a bit overwhelming. So instead of sitting at home getting irritated I figured we'd load up and try something new.

Max took this picture of Rory and I.

The kids were pretending to be a sleep with the Mama Gorilla and her babies. As you can see, they are really good at pretend sleeping.

We got to enjoy their story time which was ah-ma-zing. This guy? He was hilarious with the kids!

And they got to toss leaves and play in the big parachute after the story was over.

Rory worked on her shopping skills.

Max worked on the construction site.

Let's not forget about the whole water section, the left our sleeves quite damp.

We even got to paint our own faces!

The finished results. (I know, Rory just needs vampire teeth and she'd be complete.)

And while going to and from the museum we got to enjoy the skyway which was an experience in itself! The kids had so much fun watching the cars, buses and especially the big trucks drive below us.

It was a nice way to spend a chunk of our day. Now if only our car naps could have been longer, I think tonight is going to get really long!

2011-10-25T13:03:00.000-05:00

Last night we had quite the crowd over as we all worked on carving our pumpkins for Halloween!

First you have to clean them out, and make sure everyone smells them!

Then you have to play around a little.

Then you start the intricate design work.

If you're Uncle Randy, you sit in the corner complaining until someone hands you the baby.

While the adults clean up the mess, you make sure to hog pile on Auntie Katie!

And then you setup for the photos of the pumpkins and the kids that really didn't do much but why would you want to see the adults behind the pumpkins?

Now wasn't that easy?

2011-10-23T09:03:00.000-05:00

A few funny picture from my phone!

Max has been doing really well with out a nap in the afternoon. Except for one day a week. Then he just crashes. Last week he fell asleep while he and I were rocking in a chair. This week? He kicked daddy out of the chair and not even twenty minutes later I found him curled up like this.

Yes, I did put a blanket on him after I took the picture. Little man needed that hour of shut eye.

Rory has taken to yelling at me to take her picture. Which of course I'm in love with! So say hello to a horribly lit picture of her in my sunglasses.

We were getting ready to leave and she put them on while on the stairs and would not leave me alone until I took the picture.

And lastly, Max and I usually try to find some quiet activities to do while Rory is taking her nap. Usually after he has finished his chore (sweeping after lunch) he'll watch a video and then we'll do some arts, he'll play by himself, or our recent favorite, we'll goof around with play-doh.

Max also loves taking pictures with my camera and since I so rarely get to be in front of the lens I had to show this one off, goofy and all.

2011-10-21T12:29:00.000-05:00

Today the kids and I took Maya for a walk at the state park. Instead of heading to the waterfalls like we normally do, we decided to take the shorter trail that leads to upstream since it was colder. Once we got moving we found a smaller trail and decided to try that one out.

We were able to get up on top of the bluffs by the waterfalls, which was really neat to see! Max threw a couple sticks towards the water.

Rory continued to fall, or purposely fall, just because she's Rory.

And then we headed back, because it was stressful having a dog on a leash and two small children so close to the bluffs. And the trek back up lead to lots of falls and pushes from one or the other as someone else slid backwards. We stayed pretty close together for the walk back.

I even had to take turns picking up the kids to walk back up a particularly steep part. The kids could not do it on their own. Maya was set free to wait at the top and she would lick each kid as I set them down as if she needed to reassure herself we were all there.

It was a fun, off the beaten path, type of walk. I don't think we'll be doing that again anytime soon though! My adrenaline is still pumping pretty hard.

2011-10-20T12:40:00.001-05:00

It's story sharing day. Some giggles, some set backs, and some things I just want to remember.

Yesterday morning Max came into bed with me and decided he wasn't going to wait until 7am (which is the time I will get out of bed and get him cereal). So fifteen minutes later I rolled out of bed and found Max laying on the couch covered with the blanket, with his back against the heating pad which he had turned on, and the TV showing the P90X exercise program infomercial. Seriously you guys, it was like walking into another dimension and seeing Dusty as a little boy since that is his position every night!
Rory is back into her pull-ups for the time being. While she is going to the bathroom very well, she has decided that she no longer wants to take care of #2 on the toilet and goes in her pants. This has been going on for almost a week now and we pulled the pull-ups out after day 3. Seriously? I'm done doing that kind of laundry, we can just wait it out.
The kids decided to trash Rory's bedroom the other day while we were cleaning up so I could vacuum. They seriously picked up the floor in every room and then went into Rory's room and tossed everything she had on to the floor instead and just thought it was hilarious. I, on the other hand, was furious. So I shut the door and told them they couldn't come out until it was all cleaned up. Dusty got home about twenty minutes later and I left to go to the gym. I get home to find out that Dusty walked in to them spreading Vaseline all over. He cleaned up most of the mess but I was stuck figuring out how to get it out of Rory's brand new drapes. I plan to know all the secrets to removing stains, dirt and grime by Max's fourth birthday. I mean, that is the pace we're moving at here.
Rory can't say "fart" instead she says "sart" which gets me giggling every single time. This is so not going to lead to proper little girl behavior. Then again, having Max and Daddy around pretty much guaranteed we weren't going that route.
And lastly, we are going to have to move the little girl from her crib and into her toddler bed. Yesterday at nap time she climbed out of her crib, opened her door and told me "Mommy I awake" about ten minutes after I put her into her bed. Today at nap time? She kept opening her bedroom door to see if I was still sitting outside her room. I finally just locked it and she must have crawled back into her crib because she's asleep now. I'm really not looking forward to having two kids that can get out of their beds as they wish. This is going to be interesting.

Well I hope you got a few giggles out of those, I on the other hand, feel like I'm running a zoo! They are so lucky they are cute.

2011-10-18T12:24:00.000-05:00

As the weather gets colder and we spend more and more time indoors, my house becomes more of a storage closet. Seriously people, where did all this stuff even come from? And worse, the kids are already showing signs of being bored with their stuff! So the other day I figured it was time to try something new. Say hello to a tea party in the living room.

It did not go over well. I thought that adding water to the tea set and some mini marshmallows would entice them but instead we just poured water all over everything and had soggy marshmallow matter all over the table.

So my girl doesn't enjoy too many girly things, and Max was really not buying into the "finger out" rule while drinking your tea. I don't think we'll be pulling that idea out again soon which will certainly help out my OCD. That water spillage was causing me to consider ripping my hair out as I tried to remain the parent that doesn't mind a little spilled water. I DO! I so do.

2011-10-17T11:48:00.000-05:00

Today was Rory's last day of tumbling class. We didn't enjoy it nearly as much this time around. The director of the activities lead the class as the regular teacher took a job elsewhere and it really wasn't the same. We didn't sing songs, the activities remained exactly the same for the six weeks, and the kids just got bored.

Although Rory did thrive at a couple things. She is now a master at somersaults!

And she loves acting like a monkey while swinging on the bar.

And although I couldn't get a clear picture, she bounced in that bounce house like it was going out of style. Thankfully, I was able to sign both kids up for a cooking class this next session and I'm really looking forward to it!

2011-10-14T14:28:00.000-05:00

Today the kids and I had lunch with GG as she wasn't able to make Rory's birthday party. The kids were so excited to see her! In fact, they were so incredibly excited that they refused to sit quietly and instead insisted on holding on to GG as she laughed and rocked them back and forth with hugs and kisses.

As if GG couldn't love them enough she also made sure that Max got a few presents while Rory opened up all of hers.

After lunch I brought all 10 presents (seriously you guys, we are so spoiled when it comes to GG) to my car and then met up with the kids at GG's car. I get there and they are all crammed into Grandma's little beamer pretending to drive.

(Don't you LOVE the new coat GG got Rory?! She insisted on wearing it the minute she got it and it matches so well with Max's plaid coat. Photo ops will be coming soon with those!)

There were promises for sleepovers and fish feedings and movies before we could finally load them up in the car to head home. It was a great visit!

2011-10-13T11:50:00.000-05:00

Yesterday the kids and I went and visited with my grandpa (GG John). His days are getting numbered so it was extremely important for me to get up to see him. I didn't take any pictures while we were there and instead spent my time just being in the moment. He really is one of my most favorite people to be with and I'm really glad we made the trip.

I'm also extremely happy that Dusty surprised me with two portable DVD players for the kids! Let me tell you, that made a mountain of difference for the long car rides I faced alone with the kids. Just look at how happy they are!

On our way home the kids took a late nap in the car and I ended up waking them up for dinner. Usually I don't do a sit down dinner alone with the kids, it's stressful trying to keep an eye on both of them, but as you can see by the picture they were a little road weary so getting out and stretching our legs a bit was a necessity. Thankfully the kids were extremely well behaved.

It was a long two days of traveling and things did not go smoothly at all, but I would do it again in a heartbeat for those 3 hours we spent with Grandpa. We love you GG John!

2011-10-12T08:46:00.001-05:00

Last night we went downtown Stillwater to celebrate my dad's birthday. Before dinner we spent a little time down by the river.

The kids even got to watch one of the big boats head up river which they thought was really cool.

Afterwards we enjoyed dinner on the patio of The Freighthouse were we listened to the boats toot their horns and watched the bridge rise and fall. Happy Birthday Bopa!

2011-10-11T13:53:00.000-05:00

Yesterday's post was far to photo heavy for me to be able to accurately show two very fun moments in an otherwise very chaotic weekend. So here are some more pictures from Nora's baptism.

What a happy baby.

Max, Lyla and Rory were able to stand up front to watch Nora getting baptized.

Another fun moment this weekend was when the children were playing in our dirt garden.

And the jackpot, catching Max in the act of pushing Rory down.

I hope you enjoyed them!

2011-10-10T13:10:00.000-05:00

My weekend, in photo form because I know how much you all love my pictures.

Friday afternoon, my couch, colored on in black permanent marker, along with a little boy who also has marker on his body.

Saturday morning, a container of cereal and silly putty found in a little boy's bed while getting ready to change the sheets.

Saturday afternoon, a baptism for a very sweet niece, Miss Nora Wynn. The little boy was pleasant although he was seated next to his father and not by his cousin or very loud talking sister.

Sunday a garden is cleaned and a nice neighbor tills it up for us.

Sunday after the garden is tilled, two children run amuck in the dirt.

Sunday evening, a walk to the waterfalls with a grandma. Two children all filthy with dirt, a mom in a mismatched outfit, and it just happens to be the busiest day ever at the falls. (Not to mention a temper tantrum by a little boy while there.)

Seriously you guys? I'm going a little insane over here. October is crazy busy for us and having a child that has gone from energetic to high energy is not helping matters. Somethings got to change, so I'm changing up some parenting techniques in hopes it will lead to better results. Wish me lots of luck; I'm going to need it.

2011-10-07T13:16:00.000-05:00

Daddy is home with us today, so while running a few errands I successfully convinced him to let us stop at the pumpkin patch. And by pumpkin patch I do mean one of those tourist traps that pretend to be a pumpkin patch. But don't you worry, Daddy had a very fun time feeding the goats!

Max made sure the giant sheep was properly fed.

And Rory? Well that girl was rocking it in her pigtails, jean skirt and rain boots. I'm telling you Auntie Katie, best birthday present ever, that girl goes nowhere without her boots unless we bribe her.

And I decided to let Max take a picture with my camera. The sun was bright as it tumbled out of a cloud so I pulled down my sunglasses. The only picture Max got that actually had me in it? Yup, with me squinting and pulling down my sunglasses.

We are a classy family. And also? A family that now has 3 awesome pumpkins to carve! Yippee!

2011-10-06T13:31:00.001-05:00

Yesterday the kids and I took Maya for a walk down to the waterfalls. It was a beautiful day and since the fall colors have peaked this week I wanted to try some pictures before the leaves started falling. I also just wanted to get out of the house before Max started acting out, hence him spending the day in his pajamas for these pictures. It really wasn't worth the fight.

Max and Rory had fun throwing the leaves in the air and having them fall all over them. I got lots of pictures of this, but it is still cute to show off!

Once we got to the waterfalls it was just gorgeous. The lighting wasn't the most ideal according to all the books, but I thought it was perfect to highlight just how bright and colorful the leaves were on the bluff!

Rory was so shocked at how well that photo turned out!

When we turned to walk back, Maya tugged so hard at her leash she was standing up on her hind legs. Since I had her pulled in close by the waterfall I couldn't get a good picture to show her standing but notice her head in the right corner of the photo, and then look to the center.

Did you see that? I'll zoom in for you.

Yup, there was a chipmunk not even 10 feet away just taunting her as she tried with all her might to get loose and chase it. (Please note how I was capable of holding Maya back and also get those pictures. Yes, that is skillz, with a z for emphasis.)

I have to show this baby off too.

That leaf was caught in mid-fall! Do you know how hard it is to catch a leaf in mid fall? Try it, let me know how it goes for you. I'll be over here, flaunting my abilities in front of anyone that will listen.

2011-10-05T12:44:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I snapped this picture outside of our grocery store.

I had no desire to take Max with me to the grocery store with his recent state of disapproval but thanks to our plans this week it could not be avoided. Max fell asleep on the way to the grocery store and was extremely upset when he woke up. It was impossible to strap him into the cart because every time I snapped it closed he would rip it back open. (Seriously Cub, lets get that worked on, m'kay?) So Rory and I sat on the bench outside of the store while Max had one glorious fit. And since I can't show him emotion or it will just get him more wound up, I snapped this picture and sent Dusty a text. Thankfully, he was close by and came and took the kids home so I could shop in peace.

In other Max news, later that evening, after all had calmed down, we went to his last swim lesson to watch him show off his skills he learned. He chose to do the back float for 5 seconds and was so proud when he showed us!

And can I just say? I'm pretty sure he was the youngest in his preschool class. Either that or just the smallest.

We won't be signing up for classes again soon, maybe when they start offering day classes we'll consider it again. I enjoy unwinding in the evenings and I might as well enjoy that while I can.

2011-10-04T12:53:00.000-05:00

Max has me dreading the teenage years. Late last week Max started imposing his independence on us and has been going out of his way to start problems. He'll deliberately ignore something you tell him, when he is told to go to time out he will fall to the floor instead, when he is put in time out he will turn around and walk right back out of his room, and to top it all off, he has started talking back. I got told I was "stupid" numerous times while we struggled with each other yesterday.

Today? He almost didn't get to go to preschool. He would not get dressed and had every toy in his bedroom removed while he sassed back. Thankfully I was somewhat prepared and had him getting ready for school an hour before it started. He also had to apologize to his teacher when we got there because he was late. He didn't like that, but she was very willing to wait for him to talk and gave me a little wink when it was over. Sadly, I actually needed that reassurance, it was nice to have her support.

I know, I know, this is just yet another phase that he will outgrow. This is also an extremely trying time as I'm really struggling with keeping my cool and not showing too much emotion. He is doing this specifically to get me riled up, I can see that, so trying to keep calm and use few words is the problem. It's wearing me out. Somebody tell me this will be short lived? Pretty please?

Oh and did I mention I've decided to remove his nap? I know, that seems counter-productive but really it isn't. He's been staying up later and later and getting into more and more trouble at night, so we're removing the nap. He can take naps when he needs them, maybe twice a week, and we'll go from there. Hopefully that will help out with the bedtime struggles. He already slept later this morning after falling asleep shortly after being put to bed last night, so I'm going to call that a win. And I need a win today.

2011-10-02T09:07:00.001-05:00

So, I'm still working on figuring out how to get a glow in the dark picture...but I still had to show it off.

I got these pajamas a couple weeks ago ($7 at Walmart!) and have been waiting for October so they could wear them.

How could I not own these? Matchy matchy!

2011-09-30T12:40:00.000-05:00

Thankfully Max was feeling better today as we had plans to meet up with my friend Amy and her two girls. It was cold for the park today so while we did stay there for an hour and a half, I spent most of my time chasing the kids to keep warm.

But I did get this picture. I thought it was cute and since I'm practicing new settings on my camera it was fun to try to figure out how to get the shot to work with the sun directly behind the teddy bear.

No, definitely not professional worthy, but it was still fun to play around! I think I found a new favorite hobby, next to books of course but certainly ahead of cooking. And by favorite hobby, I mean I'm actually enjoying trying to improve my photography skills instead of just taking a bunch of pictures in hopes to get one good shot. I'm aiming for better odds!

2011-09-29T12:35:00.000-05:00

There should be a law that states, "When one visits a zoo, one should expect a child to fall ill the next day." Seriously you guys? How is it that every time we go to the zoo one of my kids get sick?

So today we're hanging out inside, making bigger messes then is necessary, and trying not to get on each other's nerves. Hopefully tomorrow will bring healthier children.

2011-09-28T18:25:00.000-05:00

Today called for a beautiful, 77 degree day. So I loaded up the kids and we headed out to the Minnesota Zoo! (Caution, adorable pictures ahead.)

The kids and I posed outside the zoo next to one of the many statues. Hello giant bison!

While we were on a walk outside we came upon the prairie dogs and I told the kids to look at the camera through the glass. They took that as a "smash your face against the dirty glass and don't think about all the germs" type of pose. Pretty sure I'm in love.

We stopped to visit the farm on the zoo and we even got to watch a cow being milked. Max is showing off his ability to moo like a cow.

We also got to check out the new Penguin exhibit. It was actually pretty anti climatic for how much advertising has been done regarding this new exhibit. But the kids still had fun checking them out. Rory got to get up close to two of them.

Becca and Conan met up with us at the zoo later in the morning. Obviously I was pumped to get to spend some more time with her since we had just hung out last weekend, and Conan was an adorable flirt with his big blue eyes. The kids were acting like monkeys while watching the cute red butted baboons out the window. (Or at least, I think that is what they were.)

I love this picture of the kids. They are watching the dolphin swim overhead. My pictures really would not focus while we were in the aquarium (hello, I want a dSLR Dusty), but this one is pretty cool looking.

Oh, hello giant fish, how about a high five to the mouth?!

Becca and I have decided that Conan and Rory will be married when they're older. What? You can't arrange marriages anymore? But how am I supposed to guarantee that Becca and I will get to be related someday? Well the good news is that we have yet to figure out who owes which family what yet, so maybe we aren't breaking any laws...

And this last picture is sort of an inside joke with Max, Rory and I. You see, a long time ago we read a Panda book from the library and it talked about how Panda's ate bamboo. At the time, I would yell out "Yuck!" as soon as I'd read that part and tell them that bamboo was yucky. It got carried away after that and now we like to ask each other if we want bamboo sandwiches, bamboo ice cream, you get the picture. So imagine Max and Rory's surprise when I told them that the potted plant they were walking around was actually bamboo! So we had a little fun with the plant and they decided to "lick it like ice cream" for the picture.

It was a great day at the zoo and a perfect way to spend a much warmer then average fall day. I mean who's going to complain about spending the day at the zoo? And better yet? I got to spend some time with one of my favorite Mommy friends! Now we just need to get them to bed a little bit earlier since naps were skipped. Anyone want to come help us out with that?

2011-09-26T14:29:00.000-05:00

We had a great time at Rory's birthday party yesterday! Rory did amazing and was happy and accommodating, I couldn't have asked for a girl in a better mood. Both her and Lyla let me crunch up their hair with a little mousse and snap it to the side with a clip. Then we had a photo shoot where I'd snap a picture, then they'd look at it, then they'd go back for another picture so they could look at that one. I didn't get to practice my new photo skills much yesterday since I was busy running the party but I'm really happy with this picture. In fact, I'm a little giddy about it.

Meanwhile, outside, Daddy was letting Max try out the pellet guns. I was not thrilled but at least Max had some styling safety goggles!

Also? I spent hours working on these cupcakes. But they turned out pretty cute, so I guess it was worth it. (Note: It wasn't. I don't like cake and if I won't eat it why do I bother? Those kids are spoiled I tell you.)

We put on our party hats to sing happy birthday to Rory. Even baby Nora participated!

Of course we sang and Rory blew out the candle. Thanks to my angle and the lighting my pictures turned out horrible after this one, so this is all I have of the birthday girl and her candle.

And there were of course present to be had. Here she is modeling the new rain boots, tricycle and bike helmet she received. She was a very happy girl and of course, very spoiled in all her great gifts!

I made everyone run outside for a group shot before dinner. While there was certainly some grumbling I have to tell you it was so worth it. I hope I do this every time so then I know I have a picture of everyone that attended the party. What a great memory! (Remember you can click to make the image bigger.)

Thank you to everyone that attended, we had a great time celebrating Rory's birthday with you. And thank you to everyone that sent her birthday wishes, our children are loved by so many!

P.S.

See this beautiful dress? And that shiny scarf on Auntie Ta-Ta?

You should check out bcatthreads.com where they both came from. (Love you Brookey, your work is amazing.)

2011-09-25T14:20:00.000-05:00

I picked up my niece yesterday so she could stay the night with us and help us prepare for Rory's birthday party today. Little did she know, she'd be cleaning windows with her cousins.

Just for the record, they were thrilled and thought it was so fun they were mad when the window was clean. And by clean, I mean completely full of streaks. Totally worth it!

2011-09-23T12:28:00.000-05:00

A couple weeks ago I purchased Mamarazzi: Every Mom's Guide to Photographing Kids because I've been getting more and more interested in photography. I'm 2 chapters in and already so excited about the little bits I've learned. For those of you that are artistic, unlike me, you're probably well aware of the Rule of Thirds. But I wasn't, and it's already got me excited to try, so the kids and I headed to the park and I practiced getting my kids into those thirds, with the help of my camera's preset lines that I never used before! (The lighting, focus, everything else is not at the degree I'd like, hence needing to read more!)

I'm already excited about this new knowledge and how obvious it was yet I didn't know it. Last night I sat in bed disappointed because I'd really like to take a class where there is a teacher that looks at your work and shows you how to improve it. I figured I'd look into it some more when I got a moment and lo-and-behold this morning Groupon was offering a 2 hour photography class specifically for moms!

You guys? It was my sign! So I'm going to take a 2 hour class and see where that gets me. Maybe I can find a photography class at nights? Maybe I can start saving to buy a DSLR camera so I have even crisper pictures? I am so dang excited I just had to share!

P.S. If you're interested in the class, sign up! What a steal! I can't promise we can all go to the same class but we can sure try to get it to work out. My goal for now? Get the class and the book read before the holidays so I can have some AMAZING photos!

2011-09-22T11:46:00.000-05:00

Remember how I talked about how great my kids were, that they rarely fought and usually just moved on when one of them was bothering the other one? Yeah, that stage has passed. The fighting, hitting, screaming and crying stage that, I understand, will continue for many years to come? It's here. So I went online to find some crafting ideas since it's getting too cold to send the kids outside when they drive me crazy.

So out came the paints and Mom's cutting skills.

We even got a scraper involved as I saw this on one of the craft idea sights.

And voila, a pretty banner for the birthday party this weekend!

Now, to decorate some cupcakes.

2011-09-21T12:31:00.000-05:00

I've got some stories to share again today. You know, those small stories that are sure to make you laugh or just beam with pride at how big these two kiddos are getting. Well, at least that is what they do for me.

To start, we had Rory's 3 year check up today. She is doing awesome and was very excited to show off her big girl undies to our pediatrician! She weighed 28 lbs, putting her in the 74th percentile for her age. She was 2' 11.5" putting my tall girl in the 90th percentile, and we already knew she was really smart with all her talking but her head was in the 98th percentile at 19.75"! What a big girl we have, and we couldn't be more proud.

Rory has also developed a small sarcastic attitude. I mean, she's 2, not 14. The other night, Max wouldn't give her a kiss goodnight. So Rory stomped off to her bedroom, turned around just outside her door and yells out "I love you Buddy." And it was the most direct, sarcastic voice I've ever heard her use. I started laughing and I hear Max yell back, "I love you Rory." As if she was not trying to be mean. Typical male. (Sarcasm applied.)

Max has continued on his streak of sneaking things into his bed after we have gone downstairs. We usually find an apple or apple core lying in his bed in the morning if he does it. But we've also been surprised by the salt shaker (what a mess) and wrappers from fruit snacks. I wonder what we'll find next?

Another Rory story, because she's been so dang funny lately, has to do with potty training. Whenever she announces she has to go to the potty, she'll stand up right where she is and drops her pants. So anybody that is in the room? Gets to watch Rory's little naked butt shaking from side to side as she waddles to the bathroom. And I assure you, it is hilarious.

My last story, actually makes fun of me, because I can be a funny girl too you know. Dusty and I are always arguing about the fact that I take hot showers. And by hot, I mean steam is usually rolling out of the shower and the warm water tends to disappear after I've been in there. So imagine my surprise this weekend when I turn around to see the meat thermometer poked into my shower and aimed at the shower head! I could have killed that man for his little scare had he not triumphantly declared, 108 degrees shortly after I found him. Seriously people, 108 degrees at the top of the shower, it cools down by at least 8 degrees by the time it hits my body. Don't mind the scalding red marks on my chest and back.

2011-09-20T12:26:00.000-05:00

You guys? Take a moment to let it sink and and laugh a little with me.

Yup, that is Rory, showing off that she is two years old today. The baby girl that only a year ago was just learning how to show us the sign for "more" is talking and walking and jumping and running full speed ahead!

At the playroom at the gym today she got a special sticker to let everyone know it is her birthday and after we picked up Max from preschool we stopped at the cafe next door to order a nice lunch to celebrate. It's funny, while I know she is just turning two and it's a big milestone, I also am shocked that she is only turning two because she has just seemed so much older then that for such a long time now. I mean, she has grown by leaps and bounds this year you guys. She was signing a year ago! If you've ever met Rory you would have a hard time believing that with how much the girl talks now.

I can't wait to celebrate her birthday this weekend with the family! Cupcakes, cousins, and lots of people that love her. What more can a girl ask for?!

We love you baby girl. You make us prouder and prouder every day!

P.S. She is definitely Cochran, did you not see the shocker picture in the pictures above? I love that silly girl!

2011-09-19T11:17:00.000-05:00

This weekend we went out and bought Rory some big girl underwear. Since our weekend was so hectic this required everyone going to the store so there were lots of opinions as to which character Rory should get. We finally settled on the Hello Kitty undies and left the store. Twenty minutes later, Rory had her first accident in 3 days. Of course, we were at another store buying stuff for our yard and she really hasn't done a lot of errand shopping while potty training, but I still found it a little ironic.

Fast forward to later that day, we get home and I realize I bought the wrong sized underwear! Where I thought Rory would fit into a 4T I have no idea. I blame it on the rush to get in and out and on our way. So guess who had to go back to the store to get the right size? Yup. And this time I left them all in the car while I ran in. (You do realize I mean Daddy and the kids, right?) Of course the kitty cat underwear were not in Rory's size, but I was able to find some Mickey Mouses and she didn't seem to mind when I showed them to her.

So as of last night, Rory is now in big girl undies. Well, unless we are going somewhere. I'm a bit lazy this time around and have no desire to carry around an extra change of pants. At least not yet. I think we'll give her a week and see how she does in the new undies at home and for short errands first before converting full time. And maybe, just maybe, I'm trying to keep my little baby the baby she is just a little bit longer. I plead the fifth.

2011-09-16T12:16:00.000-05:00

Today Max and Rory had a special treat. First off, their Daddy is home from work today and secondly, Uncle Randy dropped off Maya this morning to play with us. Since it was still pretty chilly this morning I was able to convince Dusty not to work on the garage this morning and instead to take us to a new place to try out some fishing.(And also some photos.) Say hello to the Apple River!

We didn't catch a single fish but it was still fun to be there and the kids got to throw rocks in the water while Maya ran up and down the shoreline.

Dusty got a little excited casting and got his lure stuck in a tree on the other side. Look at that mountain man, scaling sharp rocks in pursuit of a three dollar lure.

I love that he just waded in, clothes and all, the kids and I got to laugh at his feeble attempt to use a stick to find shallow water!

And lastly, Maya was hilarious. There was a downed tree and she just kept attacking it thinking she'd be able to walk off with this tree as her new stick. What a silly puppy!

It was a nice morning together, and we were even able to take some family photos that will probably be used for our holiday card this year. (Thanks for the tripod Mom!) A perfect relaxing morning after all the craziness of yesterday. Tonight? Dusty and I are going out to celebrate our wedding anniversary. A day early but I'm just happy we were able to find a night to ourselves to celebrate the best decision Dusty ever made!