The girl continues to keep us laughing with the things she says. I'm sick right now and she was being really demanding this morning, so I told her that I need her to be really nice to me today, because I'm sick. She looked deep in thought for a few seconds and then responded with "Mommy, you are soooo cute!" I guess when I said she needs to be nice to me today, she thought that meant that I needed a compliment from her.
She also has some new phrases we've heard her saying. "It's not fair!" is one we hear from her now. I don't know where she heard that one, and I don't think she even knows what it means. When we ask her "what's not fair?", she gets annoyed and says "nothing". "Nothing" is what she says when she wants you to quit talking to her.
Yeah, we can't wait until she's a teenager! (said with lots of sarcasm)
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
My Newest Niece
This morning, my brother Brian, his wife Natacha and their two girls Micaela and Camille came over for a little photo shoot. I haven't taken pictures of a newborn in a long time, so I felt a little rusty, but it was so fun. How cute is baby Camille?!
Micaela is a doting sister. She was very willing to give her baby sister little kisses and love.
And another one of their whole family...
After the photos were done, we all headed over to a local gelato shop for some yummy treats. We met up with our friend Amber and the kids all had fun getting even more hyper with the extra sugar. The gelato place does a fun little craft on Wednesdays for the kids. Today's craft was making their scoop of gelato into a porcupine with gumball eyes, a milk dud nose, and pretzels. Micaela was proud of her creation, and just couldn't ruin it by eating it. Brynn didn't seem to mind digging into hers though.
This evening, we got to see them all again when we met up for dinner. Brian, Natacha, Micaela, Camille, Natacha's sister Angie, my parents and Dave and the kids and I all went to a fun little restaurant that has been converted from an old house. The place has a fun retro feel to it, and many of their ingredients come from their farm next door. Its a pretty kid-friendly place and there is outdoor eating with lots of grass to run around. Brynn and Micaela had fun collecting sticks and chasing each other. Collin was loving the extra independence himself. Its been so fun having Brian and Natacha's family in town!
Micaela is a doting sister. She was very willing to give her baby sister little kisses and love.
And another one of their whole family...
After the photos were done, we all headed over to a local gelato shop for some yummy treats. We met up with our friend Amber and the kids all had fun getting even more hyper with the extra sugar. The gelato place does a fun little craft on Wednesdays for the kids. Today's craft was making their scoop of gelato into a porcupine with gumball eyes, a milk dud nose, and pretzels. Micaela was proud of her creation, and just couldn't ruin it by eating it. Brynn didn't seem to mind digging into hers though.
This evening, we got to see them all again when we met up for dinner. Brian, Natacha, Micaela, Camille, Natacha's sister Angie, my parents and Dave and the kids and I all went to a fun little restaurant that has been converted from an old house. The place has a fun retro feel to it, and many of their ingredients come from their farm next door. Its a pretty kid-friendly place and there is outdoor eating with lots of grass to run around. Brynn and Micaela had fun collecting sticks and chasing each other. Collin was loving the extra independence himself. Its been so fun having Brian and Natacha's family in town!
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Best Friends, Siblings
I am totally loving the relationship that my kids have right now. Of course, they have their share of fighting and annoying each other, but they are also each other's best friend. Would it be too much to hope that they stay this close forever? Here are some recent snapshots that capture their relationship:
Brynn built a "secret train" and only Collin was invited to ride on it
After Collin being awoken by Brynn several times (why is it that 3 year olds just can't get how to WHISPER?!), I implemented a rule that if she wakes him up, she has to go in his room and entertain him for the 5 minutes or whatever that it takes me to finish what I am working on. Fortunately or unfortunately, she doesn't really see this as punishment, and when he wakes up for any reason, she asks if she can go talk to Collin. On this particular day, I went in his room after only a few minutes of leaving them alone, and this is what I found. Brynn had emptied almost every book and toy into Collin's crib. He could barely move around, but he didn't seem to mind.
The other day, Brynn and Collin were playing in the living room when it suddenly became quiet. Any mom knows that is usually a hint that some big mess is being made or mischief is being gotten into. I walked into the room prepared to get after them, but instead found them both snuggled up on the couch together. They sure can melt my heart.
Brynn is also so sweet to include her little brother in her playtime with her friends. Now I know that will change as she gets older, but for now I am just loving how she includes him.
Even though he can't talk much yet, it is obvious how much Collin loves his big sis too. He usually wakes up well before her each morning, and always acts bored and impatient as he waits for her to get up too. He has been known to sneak into her room and wake her up himself. When she finally does get up, Collin gets so excited and often goes straight over to give her a hug and kiss. Since he was a newborn, nobody could get him to smile and laugh as much as Brynn could. There aren't many better sounds in the world than that of your kids laughing and playing together.
Brynn built a "secret train" and only Collin was invited to ride on it
After Collin being awoken by Brynn several times (why is it that 3 year olds just can't get how to WHISPER?!), I implemented a rule that if she wakes him up, she has to go in his room and entertain him for the 5 minutes or whatever that it takes me to finish what I am working on. Fortunately or unfortunately, she doesn't really see this as punishment, and when he wakes up for any reason, she asks if she can go talk to Collin. On this particular day, I went in his room after only a few minutes of leaving them alone, and this is what I found. Brynn had emptied almost every book and toy into Collin's crib. He could barely move around, but he didn't seem to mind.
The other day, Brynn and Collin were playing in the living room when it suddenly became quiet. Any mom knows that is usually a hint that some big mess is being made or mischief is being gotten into. I walked into the room prepared to get after them, but instead found them both snuggled up on the couch together. They sure can melt my heart.
Brynn is also so sweet to include her little brother in her playtime with her friends. Now I know that will change as she gets older, but for now I am just loving how she includes him.
Even though he can't talk much yet, it is obvious how much Collin loves his big sis too. He usually wakes up well before her each morning, and always acts bored and impatient as he waits for her to get up too. He has been known to sneak into her room and wake her up himself. When she finally does get up, Collin gets so excited and often goes straight over to give her a hug and kiss. Since he was a newborn, nobody could get him to smile and laugh as much as Brynn could. There aren't many better sounds in the world than that of your kids laughing and playing together.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Cousins, Cousins, Cousins
That has been the theme for the week around here. We had all been anticipating the arrival of my brother Brian and his wife Natacha's newest daughter on July 24th. However, little Camille Alessandra decided to make an early entrance and was born on July 11th. Although she was born a little earlier than expected, Camille (and Natacha) are both doing well. Brian didn't have enough time to get a flight into town to be there for the delivery (since he wasn't thinking it was going to happen so soon), so my mom was with Natacha for the c-section and got to cut the cord. Camille was born at the hospital that is only 2 miles away from our house, so I was able to visit them a few times already. Camille is so cute and so tiny. Both of my kids were pretty huge at birth, so I feel like an amateur when I'm holding little Camille. She has skinny little legs and the tiniest feet and lots of dark hair (again nothing I am used to seeing, since my kids were BALD). She's adorable!
Friday night (the same night Camille was born), I had already invited all of Brynn and Collin's cousins from my side of the family over for a sleepover. My dad's side of the family were all in town, so that night we all had dinner at my parents' house. Afterwards, we loaded up our car with the 5 cousins (Brynn, Collin, Trance, MaJesta, and Micaela) and headed back to our house. It was so much fun! Micaela wins the award for biggest party animal that night, since she was up the latest (10:30) and woke up first the next morning (5am). We went to McDonald's the next morning and had breakfast and let the kids play. They all had fun together!
Trance finally gets a reprieve from all the screaming girls so he can get a little sleep:
This next picture is unrelated to the whole "cousins" thing, but I couldn't resist posting it. Its a quick snapshot I got as we were leaving the grocery store today. Collin insists on wearing his hat this way, and thinks he looks pretty cool. I would have to agree.
Friday night (the same night Camille was born), I had already invited all of Brynn and Collin's cousins from my side of the family over for a sleepover. My dad's side of the family were all in town, so that night we all had dinner at my parents' house. Afterwards, we loaded up our car with the 5 cousins (Brynn, Collin, Trance, MaJesta, and Micaela) and headed back to our house. It was so much fun! Micaela wins the award for biggest party animal that night, since she was up the latest (10:30) and woke up first the next morning (5am). We went to McDonald's the next morning and had breakfast and let the kids play. They all had fun together!
Trance finally gets a reprieve from all the screaming girls so he can get a little sleep:
This next picture is unrelated to the whole "cousins" thing, but I couldn't resist posting it. Its a quick snapshot I got as we were leaving the grocery store today. Collin insists on wearing his hat this way, and thinks he looks pretty cool. I would have to agree.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
A Big Sigh of Relief
Collin had his regular check up today with his cardiologist. It is always a stressful day when he has these appointments, because they have to do several tests that require him to hold very still for up to an hour at a time. That is alot to ask of a toddler, especially one who thinks it's torture to hold still just for a 30 second diaper change. Then, of course, there is always the fear in the back of mind that reminds me that we could get bad news on his condition. However, today I got to breathe a big sigh of relief. Collin did so well during all his tests. We zoomed through them in about half the time that it normally takes, because he was so calm and cooperative. He was such a sweetie! We also got confirmation that he is doing well. There are things they are keeping an eye on, but he is doing good. As I'm driving away after each cardiology appointment we have been to, I always get a little overwhelmed. I am so grateful that Collin is healthy and that I have been allowed the opportunity to raise him and have him in our family. I am grateful for the growth that these experiences have provided me. I continue to learn and grow from them even now. I am the type of person who wants answers to things immediately and definitively. I don't like "maybe" "should" or "probably" answers. I want immediate resolutions. Life really isn't about immediate, definitive answers. That sweet little boy of mine has shown me that "maybe", "should" and "probably" can be wonderful answers too. And now we can relax a little bit more, until his next appointment.
4th of July in the mountains
This past weekend, we headed up north to my parents' cabin in the mountains. Our friends Scott and Kelly and their daughter Quinci met us up there Thursday, and we had a fun 4th of July weekend. Quinci and Brynn played together so nicely, and Collin had fun trying to keep up with the girls. Here's Brynn taking a turn at Salon Kelly...
Friday morning, we went to a 4th of July parade. I haven't been to a parade in forever, but this one definitely had a small town feel. The "floats" consisted of alot of local politicians (or those hoping to be voted into various local positions), many tractors and horses, and even a few interruptions when the crowd had to move so an ambulance or fire truck could get to an emergency. Brynn and Quinci were hoping to get some of the candy that was being thrown to the crowd, but unfortunately when you are in the back, that doesn't happen. However, Brynn was optimistic that she might get a stray candy from someone with a good throw.
Brynn and Quinci enjoying the parade (note that Brynn has still not given up the idea of getting candy):
Collin had a good time as well:
That evening, we went to the local high school to watch the fireworks. I have to admit, I wasn't expecting much, but since we don't usually go see fireworks, I thought it would be fun any way. I was really impressed. There were several types of fireworks I've never seen before, and the show went on for quite awhile. There were even bouncy houses, a concert, and things to do while we waited for the fireworks to start. Here's the gang waiting for the fireworks to start:
Quinci and Brynn got these stretchy hedgehog-looking toys that lit up. They actually kept the kids quite entertained while we waited for the fireworks. I'm sure those around us weren't as thrilled with them, since a couple people got hit with them. Oops!
On Saturday, we went to the aquatic center, and the kids had a blast! Brynn and Quinci were excited that they got to practice more of their new swimming skills. Collin, who is usually terrified of the pool, loved crawling in circles around me in the shallow end. Then, they both took turns going down the waterslide with Dave.
These next pictures were a few snapshots of the girls before we had to go home. They loved being able to run around outside, and they were proud of the little flowers (weeds) they picked.
Despite the long drive back home, the kids kept themselves pretty entertained. One of my favorite things that Collin and Brynn do is hold hands in the car. It is so cute to see Collin or Brynn reach their hand out and have the other one grab onto it. They really are great little friends. It was a nice ending to a fun weekend!
Friday morning, we went to a 4th of July parade. I haven't been to a parade in forever, but this one definitely had a small town feel. The "floats" consisted of alot of local politicians (or those hoping to be voted into various local positions), many tractors and horses, and even a few interruptions when the crowd had to move so an ambulance or fire truck could get to an emergency. Brynn and Quinci were hoping to get some of the candy that was being thrown to the crowd, but unfortunately when you are in the back, that doesn't happen. However, Brynn was optimistic that she might get a stray candy from someone with a good throw.
Brynn and Quinci enjoying the parade (note that Brynn has still not given up the idea of getting candy):
Collin had a good time as well:
That evening, we went to the local high school to watch the fireworks. I have to admit, I wasn't expecting much, but since we don't usually go see fireworks, I thought it would be fun any way. I was really impressed. There were several types of fireworks I've never seen before, and the show went on for quite awhile. There were even bouncy houses, a concert, and things to do while we waited for the fireworks to start. Here's the gang waiting for the fireworks to start:
Quinci and Brynn got these stretchy hedgehog-looking toys that lit up. They actually kept the kids quite entertained while we waited for the fireworks. I'm sure those around us weren't as thrilled with them, since a couple people got hit with them. Oops!
On Saturday, we went to the aquatic center, and the kids had a blast! Brynn and Quinci were excited that they got to practice more of their new swimming skills. Collin, who is usually terrified of the pool, loved crawling in circles around me in the shallow end. Then, they both took turns going down the waterslide with Dave.
These next pictures were a few snapshots of the girls before we had to go home. They loved being able to run around outside, and they were proud of the little flowers (weeds) they picked.
Despite the long drive back home, the kids kept themselves pretty entertained. One of my favorite things that Collin and Brynn do is hold hands in the car. It is so cute to see Collin or Brynn reach their hand out and have the other one grab onto it. They really are great little friends. It was a nice ending to a fun weekend!
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Another Day of Fun Summer Chaos
I've heard other moms talk about how summertime is often more busy than the rest of the year in their household. Since I haven't had kids old enough for school, I never really understood. Well, my kids still aren't in school yet, but I'm starting to get it. Our summer schedule seems like its been pretty full already. Between vacations, swim lessons, and family in town, we have been on the go most of the time. Its been fun, and since I've fallen off of the no-caffeinated-sodas wagon, I've been able to keep up a bit. Today was another full day of play and running around. After we got up and got ready to go, we headed over to my parents' house where my sister-in-law Natacha and my niece Micaela are staying for a few months. My niece and nephew MaJesta and Trance were also over there, so all the cousins got to spend the morning together. It was basically a madhouse, but the kids had fun. We all went swimming in my mom's pool. There were only 2 adults in the pool and 5 kids (only 2 of who could really swim). They had fun though, and no one drown so that was good. Here's my mom with all her grandkids (MaJesta, Micaela, Collin, Brynn, and Trance):
Outnumbered:
Collin wasn't too thrilled about being in the pool. He was clutching onto me with his arms and even his feet, but when Trance let him in the raft with him, he relaxed enough that he almost fell asleep. He loves his cousin Trance! (Note Brynn swimming in the background. She is our little fish. She is doing really well swimming and is on the verge of figuring out how to take breaths on her own as she swims.)
After swimming, it was back in the house for more noise and chaos. The three little girls really love being together and even getting in trouble together. Collin doesn't mind the extra attention and playmates either.
They were so cute playing piano together.
Then, we had to say goodbye, as Brynn, Collin, and I had an appointment we had to be to. As is the tradition in my family, everyone (except Trance) came outside to say goodbye as we left. True to this tradition, everyone did the sign for "I love you". Yes, its pretty cheesy, but the kids started it, and now they insist on it each time. (My dad even has a signature dance to go along with it, but he only busts out those moves for the grandkids.) Micaela's "I love you" always looks more like she's flipping the bird or doing some gang sign, but we know she does it out of love.
After our appointment and some errands, we were off to the mall to meet my mom, Natacha, and Micaela. We stopped by the Disney store where the girls went crazy trying to pick out toys. The process was apparently as exhausting for them as it was for us, because they decided they needed to rest among the stuffed animals.
Good thing they stopped to rest, because they needed the extra energy for the play area. I loved hearing all the giggles and laughing as they played. Collin LOVES the play area. Getting to climb and have a little more independence always makes that boy happy. The girls loved it too. Brynn and Micaela behave like sisters. They get along most of the time and are always asking when they get to see each other next. But they also argue like sisters ("that's MY mom...that's MY grandma...MY toy"...you get the point). I'm loving that they get this time together. Most of Brynn's cousins live far away, so its always a treat when she gets to spend time with one of them. We are excited to meet the newest cousin when Natacha has her baby in a few weeks (and my brother will also get some time off work to visit).
So, although this summer hasn't been the most relaxing, we have been living it to the fullest and loving it!
Outnumbered:
Collin wasn't too thrilled about being in the pool. He was clutching onto me with his arms and even his feet, but when Trance let him in the raft with him, he relaxed enough that he almost fell asleep. He loves his cousin Trance! (Note Brynn swimming in the background. She is our little fish. She is doing really well swimming and is on the verge of figuring out how to take breaths on her own as she swims.)
After swimming, it was back in the house for more noise and chaos. The three little girls really love being together and even getting in trouble together. Collin doesn't mind the extra attention and playmates either.
They were so cute playing piano together.
Then, we had to say goodbye, as Brynn, Collin, and I had an appointment we had to be to. As is the tradition in my family, everyone (except Trance) came outside to say goodbye as we left. True to this tradition, everyone did the sign for "I love you". Yes, its pretty cheesy, but the kids started it, and now they insist on it each time. (My dad even has a signature dance to go along with it, but he only busts out those moves for the grandkids.) Micaela's "I love you" always looks more like she's flipping the bird or doing some gang sign, but we know she does it out of love.
After our appointment and some errands, we were off to the mall to meet my mom, Natacha, and Micaela. We stopped by the Disney store where the girls went crazy trying to pick out toys. The process was apparently as exhausting for them as it was for us, because they decided they needed to rest among the stuffed animals.
Good thing they stopped to rest, because they needed the extra energy for the play area. I loved hearing all the giggles and laughing as they played. Collin LOVES the play area. Getting to climb and have a little more independence always makes that boy happy. The girls loved it too. Brynn and Micaela behave like sisters. They get along most of the time and are always asking when they get to see each other next. But they also argue like sisters ("that's MY mom...that's MY grandma...MY toy"...you get the point). I'm loving that they get this time together. Most of Brynn's cousins live far away, so its always a treat when she gets to spend time with one of them. We are excited to meet the newest cousin when Natacha has her baby in a few weeks (and my brother will also get some time off work to visit).So, although this summer hasn't been the most relaxing, we have been living it to the fullest and loving it!
Happy Birthday Jacob!
We wanted to wish our nephew Jacob a Happy 3rd Birthday!! We miss him, but hopes he has fun celebrating his big day!
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