Random Tidbits

Christmas Eve

2012-01-16T16:16:00.000-08:00

This year for Christmas Eve we headed to Grammy and Papa's house for brunch. Beans and Bugs were really excited to spend time with Uncle Anthony and Katelyn. We played the Wii a little, watched the Seahawks and enjoyed each others company.

Uncle Anthony and Katelyn gave Bugs Legos for Christmas, I am not sure who enjoyed them more Bugs or the big boys. Although Bugs does love playing with it now. He drives the Bulldozer all over.

Uncle Anthony has become quite good at putting feathers in from watching Katelyn. Beans loves all things girlie and pink and yellow feathers are definitely girlie.

Beans has started asking to pray at dinner. She takes it very seriously and recites the childhood prayer I learned as a kid.

"God is good, God is great, Let us thank Him for our food, Amen"

Headed out to Christmas Eve service.

Already for Santa to come. Hope he likes our cookies!

Holiday Fun

2012-01-03T16:17:00.000-08:00

We have a few traditions that we look forward to each year. This year we couldn't pass up the Christmas lights at the botanical garden. I'd have to say Christmas lights are one of my very favorite things about Christmas. They are so magical and just make me smile. Beans is holding the map, I didn't have the heart to tell her there is only one way.

The lights were beautiful this year but it was extremely crowded. Probably won't go there again.

It has become a tradition to see the Nutcracker with Beans and my mom. We have been doing this for the past 4 years. It was wonderful and Beans loves the dancers.

This year my brother's girlfriend came along with us. Beans loves Katelyn!

My silly boy!

We went to Auntie Jill's to decorate cookies. She was brave with sprinkles and all. Beans loved being able to help so much.

Jackson, Beans, and Carter
Jackson is such a great friend and even though Beans is a girl and Bugs is 5 years younger he is always willing to play. This time Jackson introduced my sweet boy to WEAPONS and he was in heaven! Jackson also has an enormous amount of Legos. Next year we need to visit more than 3 days before Christmas. Bugs could have made his Christmas list off all of Jackson's toys!

Beans loves dressing up and Jackson's grandma makes all of his Halloween costumes (with help from Auntie Jill) so he has a great supply of costumes (because when you are a boy they are not called dress up clothes!!) The best part is that the boys are attacking Beans with the n.erf guns!

We also went to Snowflake Lane. We arrived early and we soon surrounded by people. It was crazy crowded. The line for Starbucks was out the door and down the hall, we decided we didn't need hot chocolate. Afterwards we surprised the kids with a trip to Build a Bear. It was so much fun that I forgo to take any pictures.

A visit to Minnesota

2012-01-01T15:11:00.000-08:00

Our sweet nephew was turning 1 so we decided to take a trip out to MN to help him celebrate. We enjoyed lots of time to play with Dawson and fun with Grandma and Grandpa.

This is how we fly!

After arriving in MN we headed straight for the Mall of America. Beans and Bugs were so excited to visit their favorite stores. Beans was counting the days until she could get her doll's ears pierced (even though we told her that she can't get hers pierced until she is 12.) She also saved her allowance for four months to spend at the American Girl store.

We stayed the night at Grandma and Grandpa's and then headed to Auntie Emily and Uncle Aaron's to celebrate Dawson's first birthday.Taking tips from Bugs on how to eat his cake.

This is about as messy as Dawson got even with lots of encouragement to smear it everywhere.

Cupcake cake for everyone else.

After Dawson's birthday party and nap, we went to Grandma and Grandpa's hotel and went swimming.

Beans and Auntie Emily. Grandma saved a bunch of Emily's dance outfits from when she was about Beans age. Beans loved trying them ALL on and performing for us. She (Beans) loves to sing and dance whenever she can and was in heaven!

Showing us her moves!

Auntie Emily and the boys!

Bugs sporting the Minnesota Gopher stocking hat.

Just being silly!

Our sweet nephew learning new tricks!

Top 10 of 2011

2011-12-31T09:14:00.000-08:00

10. We took a couple of camping trips this summer. One to sun lakes and another to deception pass. Both trips were a lot of fun. One was really warm and the other rather cold.

9. Both Lily and Carter played soccer. The season was actually fairly dry and it was great see the both of the kids enjoying the game.

8. Carter learned to ride a bike without his training wheels. He is so proud of himself. Every time he is outside riding he will yell, “Watch Momma.”

7. We traveled twice to Minnesota to be with family and friends. It has been great to see Carter and Lily get to know their cousin Dawson. Auntie Emily, Uncle Aaron, and Dawson also came to Maple Valley to stay with us in July.

6. Jason received a promotion at work.

5. Carter has become more interested in school, learning his letters and to count to 20. He loves preschool, his teachers, and friends.

4. Lily started 2^nd grade and is doing fabulous. In October, her teacher told us she is reading way above grade level. She works so hard and really loves school. Her favorite subject in school is music, which is not surprising as the girl spends most of her time singing and making up songs.

3. We spend a week down in Florence, OR camping. We had the best time and everyone was sad to come home. We were able to spend a few days at the beach, hang out at a really cool lake within the state park and visit some friends camping in Coos Bay.

2. We snuggled with the Clouded Leopards at the Point Defiance Zoo. We spent a lot of time at the zoo checking out the sharks and monkeys.

1. Spending time with family and friends, while continuing to be healthy and happy. We have been blesses with so many wonderful things this year and we continue to count our blessings.

Christmas Traditions

2011-12-30T20:50:00.000-08:00

Every year we take a trip to Seattle (that makes it sound like we live hrs away.) The entire day is usually planned out with all of the things we want to accomplish. This year our first stop was Santa. We have been following the same company for many years now and really love their holiday spirit and the magical Santa.

This year Santa's workshop was decked out in all white. Both kids were really excited to ask Santa for bikes. When we got there, it was empty. There was no wait and both kids were able to sit and talk to Santa for a minute.In past years, Beans has loved finding the nutcrackers and having her picture taken next to them. This year Bugs was totally into it and wanted to walk all around Pacific Place looking for them.

After visiting with Santa, we searched for Nutcrackers, then had lunch. By that point both Bugs and Beans were loosing steam. After lunch we went to the bookstore to find our new Christmas books. Last year Bugs had a major melt down about wanting to get some Legos and not understanding that we were just there to get our Christmas books. This year went much smoother, although there was still a mini melt down about wanting a Cars 2 book. After the books store we did a little shopping and then headed to the Holiday Carousel. This year we all rode.

This is one of the days I look forward to each year as we near the holiday season. We had a great day and loved that Grammy and Papa joined us for the day.

Christmas Pictures

2011-12-30T09:26:00.000-08:00

While visiting Jason's family in Minnesota, we take some "Christmasy" pictures. Now trying to get three little ones and two grandparents to look in the same direction while others behind me are making funny faces and doing silly things can be quite challenging.

I took about 15 of this shot and this is the best we got. Bugs is in a mood because I made him change his shirt.

Grandpa, Bugs, and Beans
I love this picture of Beans and Grandpa! While Bugs was throwing a fit, she snuggled up next to Grandpa.Bugs finally decided he should smile. I'm guessing there was a little bribery going on.

Sweet Dawson. I love his cheeks but really don't want to be that Auntie.

Okay enough pictures!! But I LOVE this one. Beans continues to smile while everyone else is melting down.

Holidazzle Parade

2011-12-29T21:27:00.000-08:00

When we started planning our trip to Minnesota, I knew I wanted to take the kids to the Holidazzle parade. It is in downtown Minneapolis and the floats are all lit up with Christmas lights. This year Bugs is really into the Christmas lights. I knew he would love it.

The Twins snowman. This was the only picture that I took that turned out. There were lots of different floats. When it was over, Bugs complained that it was too short and he wanted to watch it again. The weather was perfect, cold but bearable.

Auntie Emily and Bugs

Grandpa and Dawson

Ice Skating

2011-12-29T09:11:00.000-08:00

While visiting Jason's family in Minnesota we decided to take the kids ice skating. The weather has been very warm here and the ponds are not yet frozen over so we looked into a rink that had rentals (which you might think that all places would have rentals, but actually most don't because most families have their own skates). There is a place that is near where Jason grew up. He even skated there as a kid.

Right before going on the ice. Bugs was a little nervous once he put the skates on.

Hanging on to Daddy for dear life!

Bugs kept telling Jason to go faster!

Beans held our hands while holding on to the railing. She has roller blades and loves to roller skate so we knew it wouldn't be long before she was out on the ice without help.

Still holding the wall but on her own now!

This sweet girl is braving the open ice on her own! When I look at this picture she looks so grown up to me!

It was a lot of fun and we are planning to find somewhere local to go skating again.

Pancake Feast

2011-12-28T22:39:00.000-08:00

Bug’s preschool teacher does a play each year around Thanksgiving time. Beans was in the same play when she was in Ms. Gannon’s class. This year it was Bugs turn and he was so excited. He had the part of the doggy with his friend Tristan. We kept asking him what he was supposed to do for his part and his response was always, “MAKE A MESS!” Well he was great at that! He did a wonderful job and after the play they serve pancakes and sausages. Bugs was in heaven. I think he ate 5 or 6 pancakes.

Right before the play with his doggie ears.

Thomsson's Farm

2011-12-28T07:32:00.000-08:00

We planned on taking the kids to the pumpkin patch much earlier in the month of October but we didn't actually make it until the weekend before Halloween. Bugs went twice before but he was excited to get more pumpkins for our front porch. Turns out the weekend before Halloween means the pumpkin patch is deserted. Thomasson's Farm is wonderful. We quickly found our pumpkins and the headed to play.

If you look really close you will see what happens when things don't go exactly as Bugs planned! I am not sure what he is crying about but it probably has something to do with the fact that I wanted to take his picture before letting him play.

There are so many great things to do!

One of their favorites was the corn pit. It is full of corn kernels. They jumped around for at least a 1/2 hour before we tried something else. Even came back at the end of the day to jump some more.

We also tried out the sling shot. Bugs actually hit the target on a bounce. One of the farmers gave up a pumpkin for hitting the target. It was a bumpy, warty one and he loved it.

The photographer in me (and the matchie matchie mom that I am) was wishing I dressed them in cuter clothes.

It was a fabulous day!

Halloween

2011-12-27T21:55:00.000-08:00

This year our Halloween costumes were used many times! Beans wore hers to 4 different parties for actually wearing it to go Trick or Treating. This year we stayed on our street and joined in some of the families on our street that the kids are good friends with. The weather was fabulous and it only sprinkled for a minute or so. Bugs was really into it this year and he was running from house to house to say, “Trick or Treat!”

When we returned home, both the kids checked out their candy, chose 10 pieces and promptly sold it to Jason and I for $10.

Soccer Parties

2011-12-27T19:33:00.000-08:00

Both Beans and Bugs loved playing soccer this year. The weather held out for most of the season and there were only a few Saturdays of rain and mud. Bugs was so excited for the end of the season and his soccer party. He was looking forward to adding to his trophy collection. His soccer party was held at a pizza place near us. The coach called each player us and said something about their skill. For Bugs, Coach Todd said, “He’s a boy that never stops moving. He is always full steam ahead.” Bugs never missed a practice or a game.

Beans’ end of the season party was held on the same day at the same place only a few hours later. We had cupcakes and the kids discovered the mustache machine (you can buy stickers that look like mustaches.) Beans’ coach said, “She has great sportsmanship! She came to cheer on her team at their first game even when she couldn’t play.” (That was the weekend she fell and banged up her face pretty good. She had a couple of chipped teeth and we didn’t want to do more damage.)

Second Grade Sucess

2011-12-23T22:40:00.001-08:00

Bean’s parent teacher conference was in November. She was very excited for us to go and see her classroom and hear about how she was doing in class. The night before her conference, she told me she was nervous for the conference. When I asked why, she said she was worried she didn’t do very good. We had a long talk about how as long as she tries her best that is okay with us! Well turns out Beans had NOTHING to worry about. She is excelling in all areas. Math is her favorite subject and she has passed all of her timed tests through 5 (through 6 is the goal for March). Beans reads at a beginning to mid third grade level. Jason and I were floored. She often tells us reading is hard for her. Apparently she is pulling the wool over our eyes. J In first grade, she struggled to settle into the routine in the beginning and she did average first grade work. We are VERY proud of her and the gains she has made. When we left her conferences, everyone was all smiles! WAY TO GO BEANS!

Swimming Lessons

2011-12-22T13:49:00.000-08:00

This past summer, both the kids took swimming lessons at a local pool. They loved it! This was the first time Bugs was in the water by himself. He was a little nervous at first but after a lesson or two he became a little fish. Beans did amazing. This is her first class where they actually taught different strokes. She did very well and passed on to the next class.

Beans' 2nd Grade Field Trip

2011-12-12T19:32:00.000-08:00

This past October Beans' 2nd grade class went on a field trip to Pioneer Farms. They were able to visit the Ohop Indian Village & the pioneer village. It was a lot of fun and very cold. I was so excited to be able to go with Beans and her class.

Beans and her friend Holly, all ready to hike to the Ohop Village.

These 4 girls are all in Brownies together.(Beans, Katherine, Lauren, & Holly) They are stringing beans & noodles on a wire to make a bracelet.

Dressing up in the winter village, the way the Ohop Indians would have dressed during the winter.

Beans is using wool to roll and make a bracelet.

After the winter home, we traveled to the Spring home. During this time the Indians would hunt, fish, and begin to make things that they would take with them to the summer and fall homes. Beans is learning to shoot a bow and arrow to hunt down those big bears.

Now she is learning to put hot rocks in the fire and cook the bear that she killed for dinner.

After the Spring home, they traveled to the summer home. Here Beans made an arrow head.

After visiting the Ohop Indian Village, we had lunch and journeyed to the Pioneer Farms.

Beans learned to cut wood.

Tend to the animals in the barn. Her favorite part was jumping in the hay.

Beans and Holly rolling out the dough for their muffins.

Beans in the cabin dressing up like a pioneer girl her age would have dressed.

Back in the old days, to heat the curling iron they would place it in the Kerosene lamp.

She also tried shaving like the boys would have done.

Sitting in the pioneer school house learning about lashings for dirty faces and hands.

Visiting with Santa

2011-11-26T20:24:00.001-08:00

We have seen the same Santa in various places over the 4 years. He is the sweetest man ever and spends as much time talking to the kids as they want. Both Beans and Bugs asked Santa to bring them a new bike.

Picture Day

2011-11-07T07:34:00.000-08:00

The morning of Bugs picture day, I found him in the bathroom with wet hair. He was using one of those "picture day" combs. I have no idea where he found it. He was using the comb to brush his hair straight up and over, much like a really bad comb over. When I walked into the bathroom I ask him what he was doing? He looked at me and said, "What Mama?? Do you like my hair, I did it all by myself." Awwwwwww melt my heart, but sweet boy let mama help you! :) Thankfully he let me help him, although each day I am reminded how quickly he is growing up!

Dribble, Kick, SCORE

2011-11-07T07:33:00.000-08:00

More pictures from soccer!

The Begin of Soccer Season

2011-11-06T12:16:00.000-08:00

The night before the first soccer game Beans fell down the neighbor's driveway and slid on her face. She was pretty banged up and it just happened that pictures were the same morning. I took a picture to remember the day. She was sad that she wasn't able to play in the first game. She chipped her tooth and the inside of her mouth was really sore.
This was Bug's first year playing soccer and he was really excited for the first game.

All smiles and ready to play!

Bug's and "best buddy!" These two have played t-ball and soccer together. They also are in the same preschool class.

A reminder from Coach about which direction to kick the ball. Bug's was all about running no matter what direction he was running.

Playing goalie for the first time.

Beans' team did play and she was such a great teammate and sport. We went and cheered on the team even though she couldn't play!

Grand Prize

2011-11-03T18:56:00.000-07:00

Beans' school fundraiser ended a few weeks ago. One morning I received a call from the school letting me know that Beans' raffle ticket had been pulled for the grand prize. The grand prize happened to be a 5 pound bar of chocolate. The funny part is that she only sold two items. We have now cut it up into pieces and it is in our freeze trying to figure out what we will do with 5 lbs of chocolate.

Zoo Boo

2011-11-02T13:50:00.000-07:00

This past summer we bought a membership to a local zoo and I made a note on the calendar to go to Zoo Boo. So we headed out on a sunny morning.....or I should say afternoon. Zoo Boo is an event where there are lots of extra activities at the zoo and the kids can collect candy. They also were able to wear their costumes. Bugs is a race car driver and Beans is a Rock Star both every fitting costumes.

In all the times we have been to the zoo in the past years, I have never seen the tigers so close. This one was even talking with the crowd. It was a really cool experience.

Enjoying a Halloween treat.

Beans needed a boost to see the monkeys.

In the aquarium they had a Bat Quest. There were bats all over with the aquarium with different symbols. Beans and Bugs loved working together to find all of the bats.

They even had pumpkin bowling.

We had such a wonderful time! Glad we remember to go.

Pumpkin Patch Take 1

2011-11-01T09:50:00.000-07:00

We had planned to visit a pumpkin patch but Beans decided she wanted to have a play date with a friend instead so we took Bugs a different pumpkin patch near our house. He was happy as a clam walking through the mud and muck.

It was the perfect chilly day.

He found a ladybug that he wanted to take home with him as a pet. He was more interested in his ladybug then he was choosing a pumpkin.

After walking round for about 45 minutes, he finally decided on a pumpkin. We made lots of suggestions but the one he chose had to be completely his idea!

A sweet boy and his pumpkins! He really liked the odd looking ones and pointed out all the strange spots.

My favorite boys!

All ready for the farm.

Deception Pass

2011-10-31T09:49:00.000-07:00

Back in August we squeezed in one more camping trip. This trip was actually planned in January of 2011. We had been wanting to check out this state park and were finally able. It was easy to see why it was always booked! We had a huge spot that was secluded from the road.
I have to include this funny story about this camping trip. As we were unpacking things from the trailer, I couldn't find one of the sleeping bags. Jason said, "It's in there." I did eventually find it. A little bit later, I asked him where the air mattress were. Again he told me they were in the trailer. I kept looking for them and could find them. So he came over and looked and he couldn't find them either. Turns out we didn't bring them. At the last minute, Beans threw in some pool air mattress that worked for the kids and Jason headed to the nearest Walmart to try and find a cheap air mattress for us. Luckily he found one, otherwise our trip would have been cut short to one night only!Bugs had a blast working on his bike and cruising round.

Eating hobo stew for dinner.

After dinner, we went down to the beach to see the sunset. It was a very rocky beach, perfect for my family. There were lots of flat rocks and Daddy was trying to teach Beans how to skip rocks.

Seeing how many bounces they could get out of their rocks.

There was lots of drift logs on the beach.

Hanging out on the teeter toter.

Beautiful sunset

After the sun went down, it cooled off very quickly.

The next morning, it was still very cold but we headed for the beach.

The bridge is off in the distance. It was very foggy and it took a long time to burn off.

Beans found some flat rocks to stack. We had seen these all over the beach.

Daddy is giving Bugs some whittling tips.

See those boots under the coat. Bugs had a melt down and was taking a short rest.

We went to the Jr. Ranger program and took some popcorn. Daddy popped it over the stove and the kids loved it.

Yummy popcorn!!

Learning about the native animals for the area.

We ended up leaving a day early and of course the weather was beautiful. It was cold and foggy the entire time we were there.

Clouded Leopards

2011-10-30T15:40:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago we had a really cool opportunity to go and see the Clouded Leopards at Point Defiance Zoo. My brothers girlfriend's dad is the director of the zoo and we were able to actually go into the room with the Clouded leopards.

There are two babies you are able to view but they have 8 or 10 at the zoo. There is one boy and one girl. This is the little girl, on the other side of the window is an older male that she will eventually mate with. The zookeepers says she is feisty!

This was from the outside of the room. They love to play with paper towel rolls and climb.
They are three months old and weigh about 9 pounds.

Bugs wasn't so sure about going into the room with the leopards and zookeepers were so nice to get him a stool so he could see from the outside.
Beans loved being in the room. She was a little nervous at first but once the zookeeper held the leopard in front of her she warmed right up.

My mom playing with Clouded Leopards. They loved chasing the bamboo sticks around the room. Their fur is so soft just like a house cats fur.

Jason went in at the very end of the visit and they were tired and much calmer. He was able to get some really good pictures.

This was the male in the room next door. He is 6 months old and his paws were MUCH bigger.

Bean's First Day of Second Grade

2011-10-29T09:20:00.000-07:00

This year Daddy stayed home to take Beans to her first day of school. Turned out to be Bugs first day back to preschool as well. Before I left for school I review with Jason all of the different pictures he was to take. I think he was a little nervous. :)

Miss Beans headed off to 2nd grade. Bugs wanted in on the picture taking as well. Big change from this summer when I couldn't get him to even look at the camera.

Already to go in and meet her new teacher. She has a caramel apple for her.

Mrs. Davidson and BeansBeans' classroom is in a portable this year and she is so excited about it. They have tables instead of desks.After school Bugs and Daddy went to pick Beans up from school. She said it was a great first day and loves her new class.

Celebrating Gigi

2011-10-28T21:20:00.000-07:00

This summer my Grandma turned 87. She is one spunky lady and I have such fond memories of the time we spent together when I small. My brother and I often talk about the green spiny chairs she had in her living room and listening to Paul Harvey in the morning with Grandpa. I am bless that my kids get to make memories with their Gigi as well.

On Labor Day weekend, we had a extended family picnic at my mom and dad's house. It was fun to see 2nd generations cousins playing together and sending a sunny afternoon with family.

Beans and MaryEll
Beans is giving her tips on how to take care of her baby. Not quite sure what Bugs deal is but he looks very grumpy.

Beans and Easton
Easton and Bugs are only a few months apart in age.Eating Papa's spaghetti

Gigi and BeansBugs, Beans, & Katelyn (her first appearance on the blog :o)
This was the weekend before school started for Beans and she had a request that Katelyn paint her nails with crackle paint. Beans was so excited.

Bugs telling Uncle Bob all about his "pack pack" (backpack) Bugs loves Uncle Bob to pieces and especially loves telling him about his cars that are in his pack pack.

Dance party USA! Beans was giving lessons. She started taking hip hop this summer and now has some crazy moves.

Bugs doing the worm!
It was a night of many laughs!

The special lady herself. My Grandma and my kids Gigi!

Bugs and Beans helping her blow out the candles. I think Bugs was more interesting in pulling out the candles and dragging them through the frosting. A trick he may or may not have learned from me!

The Beach

2011-09-21T13:25:00.000-07:00

On the last day of our vacation down the Oregon Coast, we were sure to return to our favorite beach during low tide. We had a great time exploring and found lots of treasures.

Beans found lots of starfish.

Such a beautiful place!

Daddy finally convinced Bugs to touch something.

Devil's Churn

2011-09-19T09:25:00.000-07:00

After spending the day in Newport, we headed back to Florence and dinner at Mo's. I had heard someone saying that if there is only one place you stop on 101 it should be Devil's Churn. It happened to be on our way home from Newport so we stopped and boy were we glad we did!

It was very misty and a little chilly. This is right before we headed down.

The waves are so strong as they have created a channel between the rocks. The tide was slowly going out when we were hiking around. There were lots of tide pools to explore with different creatures living in them. We stayed an played for about an hour because the sun was setting. This will definitely be a place we come back to and spend more time. Beans really didn't want to leave. There was a small beach that she wanted to hike to but didn't get out to.Daddy and Bugs waiting for Beans and I. It took a lot of coaxing to get her to leave. There were even tears. That sweet girl loves the beach and exploring. I am so excited by that because I would agree that there is no better place that the Oregon Coast!

Walking back from the beach we hiked through the woods.

I was surprised at how much the kids enjoyed hiking. That is some we will have to do more of.

Newport & Aquarium

2011-09-18T11:24:00.000-07:00

This past Spring I bought my first Groupon. It was for a family admission to the Oregon Coast Aquarium. We took Beans to the Aquarium when she was just 1 year old and it was a blast. I know Bugs would like it also. It was about an hour drive north from our camp ground. That morning we ate at a local breakfast dinner. It was very yummy!! When we got there it was really busy. (There were only 9 tables and the counter.) There was one larger table towards the back that could seat 6 and only 2 people were sitting there. The husband saw us standing there and he came over and invited us to sit with them. Needless to say Jason and I were really surprised, what a wonderful thing to do for strangers!

At the aquarium, crazy diver Bugs and the cutest seahorse ever!

I love seahorses!!

They have a really cool jelly fish exhibit.

This was a new exhibit since the last time we were there. They have a whole Swamp Land. There were lots of alligators and crocodiles.

Beans loved being able to touch things. She kept telling us all the things she learned in 1st grade about sea life. Bugs on the other hand wasn't big on touching anything.

After Swamp Land we headed off to see the sharks. It was similar to the Mall of America and the sharks swim all around you as you walk through. There were some really big sharks!

Every trip involves a smashed penny! This time Bugs picked a smash quarter.The walrus' outside the shark exhibit. Bugs never wants to smile for the camera but he was willing to for this one.

Some days we all feel a little "crabby!" But she is the cutest crab ever.

After spending a few hours at the aquarium, we headed into Old Newport looking for Tilamook ice cream. Nothing is as good a Tilamook and it is a must while vacationing in Oregon. Usually we stop in Tilamook at the factory and get ice cream but this time it was out of the way by a long shot.
Yum! They both chose rainbow sherbet. It was one of their favorites this summer.

After eating ice cream we walked around town. We were there during the week and the seafood factories were in full swing! That also means it was quite stinky. We heard really loud barking out in the harbor and went to see what it was all about. This is what we found.This sea lion had a lot to say.

They were snoozing on the dock.

Outside the original Mo's. I have eaten at all 6 Mo's. We ate at the Mo's in Florence on this trip and that was the final one that I hadn't been to. It was sooo good!

Heceta Head Lighthouse

2011-09-13T09:08:00.000-07:00

Driving down to Florence, we decided to explore the Oregon coast north of where we were. There was a light house near by that you can actually go inside and see. There aren't that many left on the Oregon Coast that you can still go in.
Driving north to the lighthouse, as we got closer and closer to the coast it became foggier and foggier. By the time we arrived it was cool and cloudy. The lighthouse is behind Bean and I on the upper right. You can only see the bed and breakfast in the picture.

It was quite the hike up to the lighthouse and it was really wooded.

The size of the trees were amazing.

The view from the bottom of the lighthouse.

This was a small library that would travel from one lighthouse keeper to the next. They would be able to keep the books for a while and then send them on.

Beans sitting on the stairs waiting to go up in the lighthouse. We met the nicest man who was a park host at a near by state park. We loved chatting with him. I can see Jason and I being park hosts when we retire. I am so glad we were able to see the lighthouse. It is now closed for 2 years while they would on restorations.

This step that the kids are sitting on was used as a stepping stone for women getting on and off horses.

Beans and her lighthouse

After checking out the lighthouse, we spent the day playing at the beach. There was fresh water river running down and into the ocean. It was nice for the kids to be able to play in the water and not be all salty.

The tide was coming in all afternoon but we went exploring .the caves on the far side of the beach. Anytime we were walking around on the beach, Beans eyes were on the ground looking for treasures.

First Daddy is getting surprised by the water coming in quicker than he expected.
Now Bugs is getting surprised by the waves. Notice that Bugs is wearing socks with his Keens. He decided that this summer he doesn't like sand on his feet, so all week he wore socks with his sandals. He is now known as socks and sandals boy!

A boy and his doggy!

Buckets anyone??

How about a shovel or stick?? This is the face of one very happy boy....

and a sweet girl!

Accidents

2011-09-12T20:43:00.000-07:00

Last Friday, we headed to Urgent Care with Beans. She took a head first fall down a neighbors sloped driveway. She didn't put her hands out to stop her fall and really banged up her face. When I ran to her she was already crying and there was lots of blood. I couldn't really tell where the blood was coming from so we came home and I started to wipe up the blood. Her lip swelled up quickly and I noticed that her front two teeth where chipped. There was a pretty good gash on her knee and on her face right above her lip. We decide it was probably a good idea to have it checked out. So off to urgent care we went. Thank goodness they are open late! Bugs and Jason were gone when all of this happened getting their hair cut. When they got home Bugs was really worried about his sister. He came up close to her and said, "Silly you hurt?" While we were sitting in the room at urgent care, Bugs looked at me and said, "You better take Silly's teeth to the dentist to get them fixed." The doctor looked her over and said all was good. Luckily her teeth didn't come through her lip. She did split her knee open pretty good but they were able to glue it together. She has been a real trooper! Since it happened on a Friday, she had the weekend to heal. This morning when we were headed to school, she was nervous and I could tell that she didn't really want to go. After some reassuring, she was ok. We are off to see the dentist tomorrow.

To be continued.....

Speed!!!

2011-09-09T21:03:00.000-07:00

On our second day at the beach, we headed south to Coos Bay to hang out with Tanya, Josh and their friends. They have lots of toys to drive out on the dunes. Beans was really excited to see what it was all about.
Hangin' out in the Rhino. Beans is really hoping she gets to go for a ride.
Here she(pink helmet) is with Makena ready to go!
Josh, Jason, Beans, & Makena
Bugs, Tanya, Cameron and I stayed at camp while they headed out. Bugs wanted nothing to do with the loud noises. Instead he played Cars with Cameron. When they came back, Jason said Beans was smiling the entire time. She has the same love of speed that her Mommy has!! :)

Tanya and I headed out next. All I can say is I LOVE every single moment! We had a blast and brought back some sand with us.

That is one large Grey Goose!

This is the closes Bugs got to riding on one. Engine off. Maybe next year.

Honeyman State Park

2011-09-08T08:55:00.000-07:00

We arrived early in the early afternoon on a Sunday in Florence set up camp. We decided to eat dinner early and then head out to see the dunes and sunset. We had the greatest little campsite and somehow I have no pictures of it. :(

We drove around for about 20 minutes just trying to find the beach. We could see it on the GPS but just couldn't get to it. Once we did finally find some dune access and got out of the car, we about blew over. It was soooo windy.Our sweet girl!

It was colder than we thought it would be so on our way back from the dunes we stopped at a Fred Meyer and the kids got some winter pjs.

Then it was time for smore's. Bugs prefers his all separate and not warm. He ate everything there was for a smore including the Reeses Peanut butter Cups but none of it was together.
Beans and Daddy roasting marshmallows. Beans loved to catch hers on fire and then blow them out. I was worried she was going to catch her hair on fire! We went through a lot of marshmallows over the week.My banana with Reeses Peanut butter Cups smashed into it. It was delish!!

There was a lake inside of the Honeyman state park. You could rent kayaks and canoes from a little shop. It also had a small sandy beach with a swimming area. Surprisingly it was warm enough to swim. Even though we were near the beach, Florence is protected by the sand dunes. There was a diving dock out past the swim area and Beans really wanted to jump off, so Daddy swam out there with her. Once she got out there she changed her mind.Swimming back to shore.

Of course, now Bugs thought it was a great idea to swim out.

Hanging out with his goggles on.

The swimming area provided lots of hours of fun for us.After hours of swimming we headed into town to find some ice cream. We have our favorites and when in OR we want Tilamook. Needless to say we didn't find it in Florence and the ice cream we did find wasn't that great. It was also freezing and very windy, doesn't really make for good ice cream eating weather.

Visiting with the Gardners

2011-09-07T12:49:00.000-07:00

When the Gardner's are in town there is fun to be had! This time we were lucky enough to see them three different times. It always amazes me how the kids pick up like it was yesterday when they last saw each other instead of 6 months or more.

One of the days we headed to a splash park in Auburn (a favorite of the kids) and meet up with some other friends for lunch and play time. Somehow this is the only picture I have of the whole day. And I am pretty sure I had to bribe them with something to even look at the camera!!! That night Melissa, Bethanie, Bree and I were able to spend a few hours out together without the kids.

Bugs, Beans, & Kaelyn
That silly Bugs decided he wanted in on the picture, too. Beans loves Kaelyn to pieces....literally that girl won't leave poor Kaelyn alone. She follows her everywhere asking her if she needs help with anything. Picnic dinner~ 5 kids squeezed around a tiny table. Not that they minded one bit.

Beans reading a princess story to Kaelyn.

Uncle Shad getting Bugs!
Something about sleeping out in the fort???

"Everyone smile!"
(In order of age 7, 5, 4, 3, 18mos)
* This is the last picture of just the 5 of them, next time there will be 2 more little boys added in.

"Show your muscles."

Kaelyn's muscles

Silly faces (I love the progression of abilities to make a silly face!!)

It was a great time and we were sad to see them go.
After they left, Bugs said, "Mama, they come back tomorrow and play?" I when I told him, no he said, "Okay the next day then!" Oh how I wish, lil' man!

Mud Mt. Dam

2011-09-06T12:32:00.000-07:00

One of the things on our list of to-dos for the summer was play at Mud Mountain Dam. It took us awhile to finally have nice weather to be able to enjoy the freezing water. It was a really nice day but it still baffles me how the kids could stand the cold water.

Bugs is going to be taller than Beans soon enough!

Bean's is definitely a water kid. She doesn't ever care how cold it is, she just wants to swim.

We invited some friends to come with us and play. Wyatt and Bugs' braving the cold water.

Tanya and Beans just relaxing in the sun. Baby Morgan is sleeping in the stroller in the background. Somehow Owen and Cameron missed out on the pictures.

We brought our lunches and had a picnic in the grass and swam. After awhile we moved over to the play area.

Makena and Beans

It was a fun day and I loved sharing it with great friends! Can't wait to do it again.

Mariner's Game

2011-08-21T11:58:00.000-07:00

To celebrate Grammy's birthday we went to a Mariner's Game. We started with dinner at Pyramid. It was a beautiful evening, to top it off!
Standing at Niehaus Way S

Bugs looks so sad! He really doesn't like having his picture taken.

Grammy and I (Happy Birthday!!)

When we got to our seats it was very sunny. By the time the game started the sun was behind the stadium.Uncle Anthony and Bugs went to get Garlic Fries. The first thing Bugs ate was the apples that they give you. Then he sat and sucked the garlic off the french fries.

We were in the 300 level and Daddy and Beans decided to see what was at the very top.

Crazy Bugs and Uncle Anthony joined them.

My green eyed girl with her summer freckles!

The Mariners lost 6-4 to the Boston Red Sox but it was a really good game and we had a lot of fun. The kids lasted until the top of the 8th inning.

Family

2011-08-20T09:29:00.000-07:00

Uncle Bob came over to help aerate our yard. We did it once this year but apparently it needed it again. Bugs loves helping in the yard.

Grandpa and Bugs reading before bed.

Grandma and the kids at the park.

A Day at the Mountain

2011-08-13T09:02:00.000-07:00

We went to Mt. Rainer in July with Emily, Aaron, Dawson, & Jason's parents. It was a beautiful Saturday and there were lots of waterfalls to look at.
My sweet family.

Uncle Aaron, Auntie Emily and Dawson

Our favorite place to stop and take pictures. Now if I could only remember the name of the waterfall.

Family Picture (3 generations of Oliphant's)

Bugs being silly. This has been the summer for silly faces. It is the only way I can get him to look at the camera.

Snuggling with Grandpa and Bugs pretending to sleep.

We took pictures of the kids in this exact spot last year. There is a cool bench under all of that snow.

There was way more snow that I expected and we didn't have the right shoes for hiking around in the snow. But at least this time Bugs had shoes (last year we forgot his shoes). The snow was so cold on our bare feet. We plan to go again in the fall and do some hiking.Avalanche Lillies. These are the first flowers to bloom on Mt. Rainer when the snow begins to melt. I had to grab some for Beans on our way back down the mountain.

Bugs enjoyed having Dawson sit right next to him. It took him a little while to warm up but once he did, he loved on his cousin all he could. :)

Sweet Baby Dawson

2011-08-12T09:20:00.000-07:00

Back in July, Emily, Aaron, and Dawson came to visit. They stayed with us and it was a blast being able to spend so much time with them. Dawson is the sweetest little boy. Beans couldn't get enough of him. At one point when we had Dawson, Lily looked at us and said, "See Mom, we could totally handle 3 kids." Yep we could but were not going to! :)
Beans couldn't wait to feed Dawson.
before heading to the zoo

Cousins ages 7, 7 months, & 4

He was just starting to push up.......thinking about crawling.

We loved every single minute with this sweet boy. We are looking forward to seeing him again in December!

July Highlights

2011-08-11T09:55:00.000-07:00

Every summer there are many things we want to do. Then we get to the end of the summer and I feel like we didn't do all the things we wanted to. I decided to keep a list of all of our adventures.

Woodland Park Zoo with cousin Dawson
Grandma and Grandpa visited and there were many park days
Les Gove Park (twice)
Bike Parade for 4th of July
Mt. Rainer
Puyallup Farmer's Market (twice)
Mud Mt. Dam
Story time in the park
Visited the library
Played outside for hours
Uncle Aaron and Auntie Emily visited and stayed with us
Rode a ferry to play at a state park on Bainbridge Island

July was fun and I can't wait to see what August has in store for us!!

Our Island

2011-08-10T09:25:00.000-07:00

Every year we head across the sound to the most beautiful island and spend the day collecting rocks. This year the weather was absolutely perfect, although there were a lot more people on our special beach.
Waiting to get on the ferry.

Checking out the sound. It was such a nice day and not overly windy. The kids loved being able to walk around the boat.

Mt. RainerThis sweet boy that doesn't enjoy having his picture taken will look at me with the most expressive look.

Collecting treasures

"Momma, there is sand on my foot, could you please fix it!!!" Apparently this year he has decided he doesn't like sand on his feet.

My baby girl loves having her picture taken.

When Beans is concentrating really hard, her tongue tends to sneak out on the right side of her mouth.

A little bribery goes a long way! I promised ice cream if they sat together nicely and actually looked at the camera.

Daddy and Bugs enjoying the beach. I am sure Daddy is giving Bugs a lesson on how to collect rocks. :)

Beans's Birthday with Family

2011-08-09T14:25:00.000-07:00

For Beans' actual birthday we started the day with her favorite breakfast.

Bugs and the Birthday Girl

Candles on her doughnut was a must!

Then we headed to Puyallup for the local farmers market. It is always a lot of fun and there is fabulous shaved ice.

The farmers market is located at a park.

Beans and Grandpa hanging out at the park.After the farmers market and the park, we headed to Grammy and Papa's for dinner and an afternoon of swimming.

Grandpa and Jason playing bean bag toss.

Jason was giving Bugs a lesson or two.

Now it is Beans' turn.

After a few games of bean bag toss, it was time to cool off in the pool again.Papa bought the kids new cups for their lemonade. Bugs thought it worked best with no hands.Dinner ~ Beans requested Taco Bar and Grammy and Papa went all out.
(Grammy, Beans, Katelyn, Uncle Anthony, Daddy, Grandma, Bugs, Grandpa)

Katelyn gave Beans feathers for her hair. Beans LOVES them.

Our sweet birthday girl!Her special mint cupcake.

7 Years Ago

2011-08-08T07:26:00.000-07:00

My sweet girl was born. It has been such a joy to watch her grow and change. This past year we have seen many new changes that come along with entering school and changing friends.

Some of Beans' Favorite Things:
Playing her DSi (Mario Brothers)
Listening to Music
American Girl dolls
Hip Hop dancing
Playing with her friends
Being at the beach
Playing outside

Favorite Food: Caesar Salad
Favorite Colors: Purple, Blue, & Green
Favorite TV show: Phineas and Ferb
Favorite Movie: Hannah Montana the Movie
Favorite Book: Bean and Ivy Series

Each year we learn something new about Beans. She surprises us every day. In the past year, she began and finished first grade. This was the first year of public school for her and we were all a little nervous. Beans settled in and did very well. We couldn't be more proud of her. The biggest surprise for us was her reading. In the fall, she struggled and in mid November she just took off. Now Beans reads every day and she really enjoys listening to Jason or I read longer chapter books to her. We also struggled with some sassy attitudes. It seems that we are learning new things each and every day.

Growth Stats: Beans weighs 57 lbs and is 51 1/2 inches tall

From this sweet baby.....
(April 2011)
To this sweet girl.
June 2011

4th of July

2011-08-07T16:03:00.000-07:00

For the 4th of July, we went down to Auburn for a festival at Les Gove park. We thought it was a small event. Turns out it was much more with vendors, jumpy houses, food and the splash park.

Beans couldn't wait to get her face painted.

Playin' at the splash park.

Bugs loved putting his hand over the the spouts and then letting the water fly.

There was also a huge play ground with so many neat things.

After the festival we were going to go to a park near our house to watch the fireworks, but everyone was tired and cranky so we stay at home instead. Our neighborhood did a bike parade. We stopped at the dollar store and tired to find some decorations for the bikes. We didn't have a lot of luck but Beans and Bugs were happy.

Everyone getting ready for the parade. Beans is on the left in blue.

Bugs was all about going fast. He thought it was a race instead of a parade.

Beans drivin' by.

Bugs once he stopped. He would go by me so fast that it would just be a blur.

We were worn out from the heat and activities of the day that both the kids were asleep before fireworks even started. Maybe next year they will be able to stay awake.

Beans' 7th Bithday

2011-07-27T19:25:00.000-07:00

Each year Beans' (with my help) chooses and theme for her birthday. This year it was ice cream. We went to the scrapbook store and she picked out the colors for her ice cream and we ran with it!

I found these super cute ice cream container over at Garnish. (Go check it out if you never have, tons of great ideas for presenting/gift giving, and many other ideas. So fun?) I couldn't pass it up for the favor boxes. We made cute tags to attach to the containers and tied it together with a spoon.

Beans and I went shopping a few days before her party to find things to help us decorate. She found some cute waffle cone bowls we used as vases. Then I made some small tissue paper flowers.

I also made a banner to match. We (my friend Tanya & I) made large tissue paper flowers to hang around the house. They turned out really cute and I hated to take them down. We did end up hanging a few of them in Beans' room.

We took all of our furniture out of our family room and turned it into an ice cream shop. I originally planned to have everything outside but the weather wasn't that nice.

Tissue FlowerOnce all of the girls arrived with made visors with jewels and sticky foam shapes. The highlight was the foam paint. (Thanks Tanya for helping out it was fun to hang out with the girls.)
We also played pin the cherry on the ice cream cone. Really cute but also really easy since all of the girls could feel the top of the sundae. We ended up picking a number to choose a winner.

Bugs being silly!!
We also played scoop the ice cream (cotton balls) with an ice cream scoop. It was really funny to watch the girls think they were getting lots of cotton balls, when the scoop was actually empty.

Jason made a sign for our TV that was in the family room.

Beans opened her presents and loved each thing!

Love the expression.

All the girls getting settled for their ice cream sundaes.

Singing Happy Birthday.

Making her ice cream sundae. We went to U top it to get all kinds of different toppings.

The girls and Bugs could have either vanilla or chocolate ice cream, cupcake or chocolate hard shell (which is surprisingly yummy) and then all the toppings they wanted.

Beans' final product.

It was a terrific birthday party! Beans is lucky to have so many wonderful friends.

Woodland Park Zoo

2011-07-26T09:01:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago the kids and I went to the Pt. Defiance Zoo. When we were leaving, Bugs said, "Momma, did I miss the giraffes?" I remember having this same conversation with Beans at about the same age. My response..."No Bugs, giraffes are at a different zoo." So when Uncle Aaron, Auntie Emily and Dawson came to visit we decided to head to the zoo with the giraffes.

Sweet kiddos! They love their cousin, Dawson.

Beans wanted to push Dawson everywhere. She is really responsible and loves to help out. After the trip she was asking when she can start babysitting.

Here are the giraffes what we have been wanting to see. Lucky for us it was feeding time so they were bringing them to the giraffe barn.

I love the flamingos. When I look at this picture the song that goes, "..One of these is not like the others..." Can you find the one? If you are thinking why is there a swan in with the flamingos you would be correct. Apparently they put the swan in with the flamingos to keep the ducks and other birds away. Well she wasn't really doing her job, there were ducks all over. We watched this swan for quite some time. She really just wanted to be like the other flamingos.

I took lots of pictures of Bugs and Daddy and in none of them he has his eyes open.Horn billed Toucan

Lily the Hippo! My sweet girl was enthralled with this special Hippo Lily......hmmmm I wonder why? She was using a log and a tooth pick.

"Riding" on her friend with the same name.

Checking out the elephants.

Beans in 2011Beans in 2008

Dawson listening to Uncle Jason tell a story.After the zoo, we went to the CrabPot. YUM! Jason and I shared 2lbs of snow crab.

Then we walked around the waterfront and checked out some the shops.

Beans and Auntie Emily

Not sure where Bugs during all of this, probably standing right next to Grandpa and not wanting anything to do with my picture. We had a great time and surprisingly everyone ended the day with little crabbiness!

Movie Night

2011-07-25T15:58:00.000-07:00

While Grandma and Grandpa were here to visit we had a movie night including sticky popcorn.

Hip Hop Classes

2011-07-19T13:17:00.000-07:00

Here is Beans in her first Hip Hop class, she is wearing all pink. This is week two. Sorry it is so small. I don't know how to make it bigger.

A Special Day

2011-07-17T15:39:00.000-07:00

Today Beans and I headed out to the Grand Opening of the American Girl store. We went with one of Beans' friends and her mom. We had a terrific time.
Beans and I before we left.

Once we arrive (1/2 hour before the store opened) we were given tickets to let us know when we could actually get in the store. We were part of group 5 and they said it would be around 1115. (It was 10:30.) Luckily for us they had a large tented area with fun activities for the girls and to keep us dry. Beans and Emma made masks.

They also had karaoke for the girls. Beans was shy at first but when she saw that you get a prize she decided to give it a try. Here she is reading over the words to the Taylor Swift song she chose.Talking to the Radio Disney DJ about what she is excited for this summer. Her reply: our up coming camping trip.

Emma and Beans waiting to actually make it into the store. After we stood in line for 10 minutes or so then we able to move our line next to the store. From there it was about a 15 minute wait until we able to get into the store. The girls were get excited. We talked about all the things they might get.

Staying dry under the umbrella.

Posing with Kanani at her shaved ice stand.

Bags are full and decisions have been made. We are ready to make our purchases and get some lunch.

Emma decided to get her dolls ears pierced. (Beans really wanted to do this but we, really I, decided to wait until Christmas time when we visit Grandma and Grandpa.) Checking out the new sparkles in her ears.

Our Hobbies

2011-07-16T12:47:00.000-07:00

Beans 6 3/4 years old

This is the second year that Beans has taken ballet lessons. The first year she enjoyed it but didn't want to continue. We took a break and this past year she tried again with a different teacher. She loved it. Now she is taking Hip Hop during the summer. I can tell she absolutely is in love! After the first night of lessons she came out and said that it was the best night of her life!

Bugs 3 3/4 years old
Bugs has tried soccer and didn't really like it. We thought we would try t-ball this past spring. He seemed to enjoy it more. He is a very social little boy and his friend Matthew played on his team. I am sure this encouraged his participation. We are going to try soccer again in the fall.

Just Plain Silly

2011-07-14T20:50:00.001-07:00

While looking for some pictures tonight, I came across this one. I love how silly they are! I hope they will always be the best of friends!

School Picnic

2011-07-12T20:20:00.000-07:00

Bugs listening to a musician at his school picnic.

Buggie and his friend Abbie.

Beans and Emma playing at the picnic.

Recital 2011

2011-07-12T07:24:00.000-07:00

Beans was so excited to be up on stage again. She had been talking about her costume and recital for weeks. The morning of she was up early wanting me to put her hair in a bun and get the show on the road. Beans and her friend Makena back stage in the green room. All of the dancers stay in one area keeping track of so many little girls can be a challenge. Not to mention getting them on stage and off. We were lucky enough to enjoy the stage from the audience. I did bring snacks and lots for her to do.
There first performance was in their tap costume.

Dancing to the Boot Scootin' Boogie.

Next came Beans' ballet routine. I love that she was able to perform two different dances.

She has gained such confidence this year. Beans loves being on stage performing.

At the end of the performance, all of the dancers come back on stage for one last curtsey.

Grammy and Papa came to cheer her on.

Bugs is so proud of his sister. He loved watching her on stage. Bugs did great sitting in the audience. Towards the end he became a little restless and was asking, "Momma is it over yet?"Our little ballerina!!

The Zoo

2011-07-06T10:23:00.000-07:00

Bugs' class took a field trip the week school got out. Lucky for us Beans and I were able to join him. We met his class at the zoo.

Beans waiting for everyone to be ready to go and planning our route.

Little did she know that her brother and his friend Matthew were doing the exact same thing!

Bug's 2011 Preschool Class

Bugs and Matthew

Noticing the peacock behind me.

Bugs' learning about otters and their sharp teeth.

Beans posing on the potty.

The weather was overcast and cool. This provided us with lots of great opportunities to see the animals. I can't remember the last time I saw the polar bears.

Looking for the walrus that wasn't swimming out to visit with us. This was a little disappointing being that it is our favorite animal to see.

Ms. Bjorgum and Bugs. All day Bugs only wanted to hold her hand or stand next to her. He has been so lucky to have such wonderful, caring teachers. Reindeers losing their winter fur.
Playing in the kids area. Pretending to be a sea urchin.
I had to promise ice cream to get them to sit still and have Bugs smile.
I love these two sweet ones!!! We had the greatest day!

Father's Day

2011-07-04T20:33:00.000-07:00

For Father's Day we went to brunch in Tacoma. It was an amazing brunch! I am pretty sure we all rolled out of the restaurant overly stuffed! My Dad is rarely in any pictures, which means he rarely makes an appearance on the blog. So Dad this post is for you!! Not to mention that you are an amazing Dad and today we celebrated you.

Papa (what my kids call him) opening presents out by the water.

Uncle Anthony gave Papa a wind chime that is made out of fishing lures and bobers.

Papa and his grandkids!!

I also know two other amazing fathers....my wonderful husband, who without I would go crazy. Jason you are the most amazingly patient and supportive dad to our kids. And of course Jason's dad, Glenn. My kids are very lucky to have such great men in their lives!

End of the Year T-ball

2011-07-04T07:24:00.000-07:00

Bugs' end of the season t-ball party was at a local gym that has a large play area with tunnels to climb through. It was rather random with eating pizza and then handing out trophies. I was visiting with another family and all of a sudden turned around and saw Bugs get his trophy. I was a little sad that I missed the photo op and him receiving his first trophy! He was so excited.

Here he is afterwards. So proud and he loved playing t-ball.His team was called the Sharks hence the shark hat!

Presidential Peeps

2011-06-30T19:25:00.001-07:00

Yea Julie and Reagan are home!! Time for a Presidential Meeting. They are extremely important you know!

Sitting at the meeting table discussing the quality of dipping sauces I had. :) Not to mention they look like old poker players! Bugs kept saying they needed their "camp" hats! After much coaxing President Reagan decided the bugs would be too much of an issue but only after President Jackson and President Carter offered to keep the bugs away.

In order of their presidency (and birth order!) Let me tell how challenging this can be, getting all three Presidential Peeps to sit for their annual photo op. There may be a few bribes that were offered up to get all three smiling and looking in the same direction.

Afterwards Beans wanted to know if there was a President named Lily!Okay time for silly faces!
These two presidential peeps are about 6 weeks apart in age.
Julie and I 4 years ago (this picture was taken 4 days before I had Bugs). Crazy how time flies!!
Now my sweet boy is a rambunctious preschooler!

* More pictures to come soon!

1st Grade Drive In

2011-06-24T09:06:00.000-07:00

In May, Beans' teacher sent home a letter about the upcoming Drive-In they would be having in their class. What do you need when you go to the Drive-In......a car! The first thing we needed to find was a big box. Beans wanted her car to be purple and have the #47 on it. I pictured wrapping the box in purple paper and creating a square car. Lucky for Beans her Daddy had a completely different idea! :) This was really their project together. I did get to add the glitter to a few place per Beans' instructions. We tried really hard to make this her creation and not ours.

Each night I would come home and another piece of the car would be completed. I wish I had taken picture as they went but I was a little busy with .......well too many things!

Then the day of the Drive-In we loaded the car up in our car and delivered it. (Well actually the gal that watches Beans in the morning delivered it for us.)

Before leaving the house we took a few pictures of Beans "driving" her car.

She is drivin' off to 2nd grade now!

Camping Outakes

2011-06-23T15:28:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago we went camping in Eastern Washington. We were fortunate enough to meet up with my Grandma and Uncle for dinner. After dinner, we drove over and looked at a State Park that is on Lake Roosevelt. The water is way down. This log that the kids are sitting on is usually the marker for the swimming area. No swimming now. I tried to take a picture of the two sillys together and well.... you can see how that turned out!

Dance Pictures and Rehearsal

2011-06-22T20:33:00.001-07:00

Waiting for pictures last Saturday with her BFF Makena.

They have loved seeing each other on Wednesday nights.

Posing in the backyard.

Dress rehearsal, tonight instead of class.

Their tap dance is to a country music song and Beans kept telling me they were wearing white cowboy hats. I didn't believe her until the costumes came in a couple of weeks ago.