Our Crazy Beautiful Life

Jordan's Bday Trip and Party

2012-01-13T12:48:00.001-08:00

Christmas 2011

2011-12-26T19:23:00.001-08:00

I'm getting a lot of lectures for not blogging often enough so here's some of the 234 pictures I took this weekend. The kids had such a good Christmas this year....and now they are exhausted!

Christmas Eve in front of my Aunt and Uncle's house

Maci absolutely adores my grandma!

We forgot to bring a booster seat, but she was just as happy on the floor LOL

The girls

This was a kodak moment. Grandma holding her wine glass and the sippy cup :)

What's with kids wanting to jump over balconies?

Coming out of their rooms Christmas morning

Of all Jordan's expensive toys, he found his $1.99 tape measure to be the most exciting.

Jordan decided to try on the stockings.

The first glimpse of their new bikes.

They were both able to do it right away.

Every year the kids sing happy birthday to Jesus and get cupcakes for breakfast. I was shocked that Maci could drive this motor powered ATV all by herself. Where did my baby go?

She cried until we let her sit with my grandma.

My cousin's son Seth was so excited about every present he got. He's a cutie.

Playing at the park down the street from my grandparents' house

Our 2 1/2 week old nephew Jackson gave me baby fever.

Ahhhhhh!!!

Jordan was excited about his big ride on pony from my parents.

The climber....this child has no fear.

I seriously have the best dad ever, so I rewarded him with an Ipad.

Birthday Party

2011-10-22T20:46:00.001-07:00

Skylar's 4th birthday party was today at Boingos. She had lots of fun. She wanted a whole Strawberry Shortcake theme. Don't ask me why. She doesn't even really know who that is. haha

7 Days at Disneyland

2011-09-09T21:30:00.001-07:00

We got back last night from a 7 day trip to Disneyland. It was a lot of fun. Maci has changed a lot since our last trip and she was aware of much more. It is so fun to watch her little eyes light up with excitement.
As always, Jordan had to ride the teacups like 600 times.

Maci was in awe on the Mosters Inc. ride.

Top of the tree house. You can tell by the look on his face that Jordan really wanted to pause for this picutre.

My little guy has the cutest smile.

Minnie's House

This was taken right before Maci fell off the back of this pretend couch and paul caught her by the ankle just before her head hit the ground.

This is a little hot air balloon ride, but Jordan calls it the Juice Boxes. LOL

My cousin Matt was able to bring his son for two days. The kids had a blast together. They are all the same age.

"No pictures please!"

She's actually a really good driver!

Skye had a lot of fun with my cousin. This is them waiting for Star Tours.

I convinced Skylar to go on this ride by telling her it was a movie (not completely untruthful). She got suspicious when we got inside and started asking, "Why do we have to put on a seatbelt if it is only a movie?"

Jessie

Duffy

Maci had a lot of fun playing in the water at California Adventure

Sisters

Skylar loves Ariel now so she was really excited about the new Under the Sea ride.

We tried the backpack leash but Maci wasn't too happy about it. With the big kids, we wrote my cell number on their arms and taught them to have a mommy call me if they get lost.

Poor Jordan always gets stuck in the girl stroller.

Those girls are hilarious. Maci just adores her big sister.

First time on the swings.

Happy Birthday Maci!

2011-07-30T22:56:00.001-07:00

Maci turned one on Thursday. I had the morning off work so me, my mom, my grandma, and my aunt took her and the big kids, along with my cousin's son, for frozen yogurt.

Today was the big party. Lots of people came and it turned out great.

Miles
The cake

Maci loves my grandma

She enjoyed her cake and didn't make too big of a mess.

Jordan likes to flirt with the ladies.

Presents :)

Avila Beach

2011-07-09T20:09:00.001-07:00

We took the kids for a day trip to Avila Beach today.
They each got a new little wagon with sand toys in it. Excited to finally be out of the car

These circles at the park had Os on one side and Xs on the other. Jordan lined them all up so they were all on the same side. Each time a kid came and messed it up, he fixed it.

Coolest baby ever

Smile!!

Getting ready for lunch

I love her little teeth

Finally smiling for the camera....He usually turns away

Getting ready to get in the water

Jordan loved the waves, no matter how cold they were!

RUN!!

First time standing on the sand. Not sure if she wants to laugh or cry. She refused to walk and just stood frozen in that spot until I picked her up again.

Skylar ran up and almost made her move...but not quite :)

Playing in the waves.

Maci's turn
Big brother's watching out for her

Who's having more fun running from the waves, the kids or Daddy??

Gettin braver

They called this the "fast slide".

Napping in style. My little beach bum.

"I'm ready to play again"

She's such a happy baby

Lovin her new monkey

One tired little boy.

4th Of July

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

Every year since I was a kid we have spent the 4th of July swimming at my grandma's house and then doing fireworks at night. I have so many great childhood memories of this holiday. It's fun to watch our kids enjoying this tradition. Ready for the water :)

New water shoes.

Jordan and my aunt, Darlene. The kids are so close to both of my aunts. I love it!

Maci did good as long as she could hold on really, really tight.

Playing motor boat with grandma.

How cool is this boat??

Somehow Skylar always manages to find a cell phone.

Food time!

"Where's my food?"

That's much better!

Poker face

The big kids decided they did not want to smile for a flag shirt picture. But Maci cooperated.

Happy girl

Jordan is terried of the fireworks and ended up watching from the window inside. But Skylar LOVES them. She was so excited and had so much fun.

Maci's first sparkler

Skylar and Grandpa

Wild Water Adventures

2011-07-02T20:49:00.001-07:00

Today we left the baby with my parents and took the 3 year-olds to Wild Water Adventures for the first time. They had a blast! Jordan is a little fish and loved to play on all the slides and in the pools. Skylar is a little more reserved and nervous about the water, but she still had lots of fun. Jordan continues to make friends everywhere and even got some lady he didn't know to offer him the raft she had rented! He's so adorable when he wants to be lol.

I have no idea who this little girl is in front of Jordan so I hope she doesn't mind being on my blog :)

First time eating dippin' dots. That and the big soda in front of them could be the reason it's 9:30 and they are still wide awake! Seemed like a good idea at the time....now, not so much.

4th Of July Photo Shoot

2011-07-01T20:05:00.001-07:00

Pictures

2011-06-22T21:16:00.000-07:00

Maci's First Time in the Pool :)

2011-06-10T17:47:00.000-07:00

First Dance Recital

2011-06-05T14:11:00.000-07:00

Skylar had her first recital last night. It was so cute! I was worried she might run off the stage or something, but it went really well. Her class danced to the song Rockin Robin.
We haven't even left the house yet and he already can't stay still! She's second from the end....The one standing in place with her finger in her mouth....This isn't looking good....But if you look real close you can tell she's about to point her left toe!!

That's much better :)

She was so proud of herself afterwards. She had the biggest smile on her face the whole rest of the night. We got her flowers and took her for ice cream. My parents bought her a little Hello Kitty bracelet, which she loves. My brother also had my mom pick up a little necklace to give her from them since they are out of the county on a 2 year mission trip. She was very surprised and happy that they had thought of her.

BFFs....even if we have to force them! :)

Fun at the Park

2011-05-30T13:08:00.001-07:00

Paul had to work today so I decided to take the kids to the park for a few hours. They had lots of fun and are now taking a nice long nap! It's hard to get a good picture of Jordan because he NEVER stops moving

On the other hand, Skylar loves to pose for pictures

Maci loves to swing

Sisters....Jordan was a few swings down and actually got some poor lady to push him. I kept telling her she didn't need to, but he continued asking her. He has absolutely no fear of strangers. We need to work on that...

Here is Jordan doing his favorite thing in the world, the only thing that will actually get him to stop moving for a minute....eating!!

Last year Jordan was afraid to even walk across a fake bridge at the park. Look at him now!

Jordan is yelling through that red thing, "Hey lady, look at me!" He gets random strangers to talk to him. They think he's cute. I think it's embarrasing :)

After about an hour, the water at the park turned on and the fun really began. Jordan jumped right into the middle of it.

Skylar was a little more hesitant...

But not for long

Freezing, but refusing to leave

Jordan was soaked from head to toe

Bowling and Primping

2011-05-29T16:52:00.001-07:00

Skylar has a big dance show on the 4th and we had to get her all done up for pictures. They have to wear a fake curly polytail over a bun of their own hair, specific tights and shoes, make-up, and a $75 dress (not the one in these pictures). They have rehearsal the night before, dress rehearsal the morning of, and the recietal that night....And she's only 3! What have we gotten ourselves into? She will probably just stand on the stage and bite her finger, but she will look cute doing it!!
We took the kids bowling for the first time yesterday. They had a good time, but we had to help them roll the ball hard enough. I think the guy that worked there was getting mad at us for making him repeatedly retrieve our half way down the lane ball!
Poor Maci never gets to play the big kid games :(

"YAY!!

What The Kids Want to Say

2011-05-18T18:51:00.000-07:00

The kids wanted to get to say something on the blog so I am going to let them each tell me what to type. We'll see how this goes.

Skylar: Umm...Happy Birthday. Umm...and cake and and and dance is....I love you like this. I want to say like this. Happy Mother's Day. I did a good job at my show. Now I want to get a birthday cake. Umm....Birthday to Seth. I'm going to do a lot of shows at the feater. I hit Jordan because I'm possed to do dat. Umm I hit him before.

Jordan: I got a bagel. Oh! You're a girl. Do dance class? I ate snacks at Grandma's. Umm some corn. No chocolate. I ate some chocolate. I got a big candy. I ate the chocolate candy. I play toys. There's a bagel in Skylar's room. I spin the pan. I spin the bagel. Weeee! Like a roller coaster! What was that? That's the neighbor playin drums together. Look at my bagel. It's shiny. The sun's out.

Mother's Day

2011-05-08T20:33:00.001-07:00

Hope everyone had a wonderful Mother's Day. I was thinking about the irony of this day. We are supposed to be celebrated for being mothers when in fact being a mother is the greatest gift life has to offer. I feel honored and blessed to be a mother to my children. They bring joy to every day of my life. I don't remember what life was like without them. So today I feel fortunate to have my three little miracles and I celebrate their lives, which completed my own....

This is my cousin's wife Katy, holding my precious baby girl Maci and Miles had lots of fun together today

Cheese!!

"Weeee"

Maci and Miles on the big kid chairs....Notice Jordan in the background doing something he knows he's not supposed to be doing :)

My grandma is one of the most self-sacrificing, loving women I know. She is the glue that holds our family together

My mom showed me what it means to be a Mother. She gave and continues to give all she has to us and she never complains. She loves us unconditionally. My life would not be the same without her....She is not just my mom, she's my best friend.

Happy Easter

2011-04-24T20:15:00.000-07:00

What a fun day we had. However, the kids are still all exhausted from the Disneyland trip and we definitely had our share of meltdowns!
We took the kids to sit on the Easter Bunny last week, but Skylar got scared and Maci started crying so it ended up being a family photo.
Matching outfits for the Easter church service. I loved Jordan's little tie.

Coloring eggs last night.

Maci got a new toy for Easter.

The big kids got a karaoke machine....something I am already beginning to regret! LOL

Going through their eggs after the big hunt.

My baby girl :)

She is standing now and even scooting herself around things.

This is my cousin's son Miles. He is only 5 weeks older than Maci. Forgive him for the Giants shirt and hat. I'm sure if he could dress himself he would choose to wear Dodgers.

Hunting for eggs at the family party.

Disneyland/Sea World Trip

2011-04-20T18:17:00.000-07:00

We got back last night from a 5 day trip to Disneyland and Sea World. We had so much fun, but we are soooo exhausted. This is the longest trip we have taken as a family of 5 and two toddlers and a baby can be challenging. It was well worth it to see the smiles on their little faces :)

On the way home, we stopped in Valencia to see the Easter Bunny and decided to pierce Maci's ears. So sad, but that's the price of beauty right? This is the before picture. She looks like she doesn't know if she should be laughing or crying. During....
After. :( she got over it quickly and looks absolutely adorable.

Skye looks so old in this picture. They are growing up way too fast.

Jordan is obsessed with the teacups. I mean seriously obsessed. He constantly talks about wanting to ride the orange teacups and tells everyone he sees that he is going to go on them. He walked around Disneyland telling strangers, "I'm going on the teacups!"

The first night we left Maci on the floor while we dressed the kids for bed and walked in to find this.....lol

She's such a happy baby

Skye got this fake phone and walked around with it up to her ear. When I would say something to her she would tell me, "Be quiet. I'm on the phone." Wonder where she heard that before. haha. Sad to say, we lost her phone somewhere in the park...Shhhhh. She doesn't know yet.

Just chillin'

Jordan makes friends everywhere. He's not at all afraid to talk to complete strangers. Everyone laughs and thinks he's hilarious. He talked with Peter Pan for about 5 minutes about the train. It was supposed to be just a picute with Peter Pan, but he was being so funny that the character just stayed and talked to him while the rest of the line watched and laughed.

Awe....my babies in front of Mickey's fireplace.

So excited!!

Sea World

This is a starfish ride that Jordan called "the new teacups".

So silly

Skye made us stop while she did an arebesque (probably spelled that wrong). She loves dance and practices her moves all the time.

Skye loved touching the starfish. Jordan was too afraid.

Still a happy girl.

Jordan got a big hug from Elmo.

Maci started crawling backward about a month ago. She would scoot herself back all the way across the room until she was wedged under dressers, chairs, or whatever she ran into. A couple weeks ago she finally started going forward!

What The Heck!!!!

2011-03-25T17:03:00.000-07:00

So maybe I am being an overprotective mom, but I am SO angry right now!!! Jordan had an appointment for dental surgery at the Happy Bear Clinic this morning. This is the second dental surgery he's had, but the first one at this clinic. He had his first surgery about 8 months ago. At that time he had about 5 cavities filled. They said he had cavities because of malnutrition in the orphanage. So, we took him for another check-up which was supposed to be done at 6 months, but decided to switch to this place because it looked so much nicer.
We took him in a couple weeks ago and they said he had two new cavities, which I was surprised about because he just had all those fillings and we brush his teeth everyday. Plus, my dentist says kids this age (3) hardly ever have cavities. The surgery was this morning. They said they would be putting a gas mask on him until he fell asleep. Then I would have to leave and they would put in an IV for anethesia. When we got there I told Jordan I would hold him with the mask until he fell asleep. That is how it was done at the other clinic. I also told him I would be there when he woke up.
He was doing fine until they said he had to lie on the operating table with the mask and I couldn't hold him. Then it took me and three other people to hold him down. They said he was asleep and I had to leave but I could still hear him crying. I really don't think he was asleep.
They asked me if we wanted white fillings and I said yes. Our insurance covers white fillings. They said if they found anything else that had to be done they would let me know before they did it.
The 30 minute surgery turned into an hour and a half. Then they called me up to the desk and said he needed 7 fillings and 2 caps! How can that happen in 8 months time? They asked if I wanted white caps because the insurance didn't cover them. Since they were in the back of his mouth I said we would do silver. I asked her how much silver was. Then she walked over to the other desk and I heard her tell another lady, "She wants to know how much silver would have been and the insurance covers silver, but they already did white caps. Should I tell her that the insurance would have covered it?" She then came to me and explained they were already filled with white. She said they could wave some of the ansethesia cost brining it from 1,300 to 914. Our original quote was 319. I said I did not approve that stuff to be done. After a few different people got involved they lowered it to 610. Still too much but I didn't know what else to do and was so frustrated so I paid it.
Then they said he was done with surgery. Turns out he had been done for quite a while, but they hadn't told me because I hadn't paid yet! While other kids were back there with their moms, he was all alone in the bed screaming. The sheet was covered in blood. He had three bandages on him and his nose was bleeding. They said the nose was from the intubation and the bandages were because he was "a hard stick." How can that be? He's 3 and he was supposedly asleep. Later, after we were home, I discovered 2 more sticks on his foot, which has also turned dark purple and one behind his knee. There are a total of 8 holes (that I have found). I truly think that he was awake and they were holding him down trying to get the needle in somewhere. That is so traumatic....And then to wake up alone. I am so angry I can't stand it!! These picrtures really don't do it justice because he wouldn't stop moving and I couldn't really capture it all, but here's a idea...
This is behind his knee
Right hand

Elbow

Left hand

Foot

Soccer and Playtime

2011-03-05T18:00:00.001-08:00

The kids had their first soccer game today. They had so much fun. Skylar is the only girl on her team but she's not afraid of those boys!

A little timid at first.... This has to be the cutest little guy ever!!

Kicking like a pro

Of course Maci was dressed in style, as usual.

Playing at the park after the game

Jordan was waiting at the bottom of the slide to scare Skylar when she came down. Except it wasn't Skylar. He yelled and scared the other little kid and then said, "Oops. You're not Skylar." Hahaha

Jordan fell off the swingset and got a good cut on his head last week. He looked like karate kid in his big bandange.

Sicky Socks

2011-02-22T18:45:00.000-08:00

Hey everybody! I have spoken with the staff at Central Valley Children's Hospital and will be developing a new charity, but I need help! I will be collecting socks for the patients at the hospital and delivering them once or twice a month. I have always loved socks and they just have a way of putting a smile on my face :) There are children from birth to 18 in the hospital so we need all sizes. Think cute, think comfy, think fun! I'm hoping to get hundreds to start out and then collect additional ones on a regular basis. People can send the socks to me or send money for me to purchase socks. If you would like to contribute on a one time or monthly basis, you can e-mail me privately and I will give you my address. Acrisanto@sbcglobal.net
Please spread the word! Put my link on your blog or your facebook page. I appreciate all the support. Let's put a little smile on these little faces!!

Playtime

2011-02-18T17:16:00.001-08:00

I love to play with my kids. I can't believe all the hilarious things that have been coming out of their mouths lately :)
Jordan was so excited about his Valentine's Day candy. Skylar, not so much. In fact, after I gave it to her, she excitedly asked, "Is it outside?" I said, "Is what outside?" She said, "My present." Then I had to explain that the lame candy was her present!
"Mommy this smells really really good!"

Jordan and Skylar helped Maci learn how to play with her new toy this morning.

Big smiles :) Even though she had four shots today...

"This is my serious face."

Playing horsey.

Maci LOVES this toy!

Skylar dressing her baby in Maci's clothes.

Jordan pretends to teach Maci how to play with the toy as an excuse to play with it himself....poor little guy never had baby toys.

Pretty girl

Sunday Fun

2011-02-13T18:55:00.000-08:00

Paul worked a lot this weekend so I had a lot of time alone with the kids. We did so much fun stuff. I love when I am able to take all of them out shopping, to eat, or to the mall and have absolutely no problems. I feel like supermom :) Saturday I signed the kids up for soccer. They are finally old enough to play and they start next month. I took them to buy new soccer balls today and then we went to the park to practice.

Maci has tons of cute toys that make noises and light up, but for some reason her little baby doll is her favorite. She will hold the baby up to her face and just burst out laughing.
Bath time...

Disneyland

2011-01-31T06:28:00.001-08:00

My brother, his wife, and our 9 month old niece left last Friday for a 2-3 year mission trip. It was so sad to watch them go. Since my parents had to drive them to LAX, we decided to go to Disneyland the next two days and try to cheer ourselves up!
This is Maci's first time riding in the stroller without the car seat in it. What a big girl! Jordan's favorite ride is the teacups. He likes to go "really really fast."

I wanted to get a cute picture of Paul and Jordan in their matching shirts but Jordan thought it was really funny to refuse to smile for me.

Proof that I am a good mom.....I went down the big log slide :)

Now that's what you call a bear hug!

This is the picture I got when I asked Skylar to give me a really big smile.

Skylar gets so excited about the princesses, but when she finally gets to them she gets shy and refuses to say anything. They kept telling her, "I hope you find your voice."

Princess Ariel

My little monkey

Barely 6 months old and it's her third time to Disneyland. Can we say spoiled??

Skylar was excited about getting to dance with Snow White. That's her favorite princess.

Standing in line to see Tinkerbell.

"What?"

Disney Fanatics

2011-01-14T16:18:00.000-08:00

My kids have watched the Disneyland movie 1 too many times....They are going for the 8th time later this month. I think I've created a problem for myself. Has anyone seen the cost for a 3 year old? Annual passes are the same price as adults! Seriously?? What a rip off. Good thing my kids will be 2 years-old for another year or so. Haha

3 Years Old!

2011-01-10T18:44:00.001-08:00

Our little boy turned 3 yesterday. I can't believe he's growing up so fast. He had such a good time at his party and keeps asking when he can have another one.

We got a huge bounce house that the kids had a lot of fun in And of course Jordan always loves cake!

He got lots of fun toys, which Skylar has been gladly opening for him

Maci had a good time too

Birthday hugs :)

This is before Jordan opened his drink and poured it all over himself, forcing me to take him out of his super cute shirt.

Christmas

2010-12-28T18:33:00.001-08:00

Christmas was so much fun this year. The kids were finally old enough to fully understand Santa and to get excited about their presents. We had lots of Christmas parties to go to. Here are some of my favorite pictures.
This is Christmas Eve at my mom's house. Skylar and Jordan are eating with my cousin's son Seth. Maci refused to give me a good smile for a picture of her in her hat

That's a little better

Now that's a smile! Is someone excited about Santa??

Here are the kids putting out cookies and milk for Santa. The milk was expired. I hope he didn't drink it :)

We started a new family tradition this year. Every Christmas we are going to have birthday cake for breakfast and sing happy birthday to Jesus. We want the kids to remember the true meaning of Christmas....and who wouldn't love birthday cake for breakfast?!

Maci was a little jealous that she didn't get to ride in the kids' new car. Maybe next year.

They were so excited to see this. It goes really fast and even gets FM radio reception!

They looked like rock stars with their new guitars.

Maci got a new blanket toy with her name on it. Santa must have ordered that online.

Skylar asked Santa (about a thousand times) for a blue stroller. The look on her face when she opened it was priceless.

This is our little niece. Isn't she beautiful? She's at that age where she thinks the bows and paper are much better than the gift inside.

Maci and her cousin. They are only 3 months apart.

I got the best gift of all....my three little angels. Jordan and Skylar love playing with their 2nd cousin Lindsay.

Maci and her grandma

Jordan is only about 3 months older than his cousin Ryan. In fact, Jordan, Skylar, Ryan, and Seth will all be in the same grade in school.

Maci partied her little heart out!

We did gifts at my mom's house the morning after Christmas. Here's all the kids. Notice my girls' matching hats. I love those hats!!

Jordan got a new Woody doll. Umm..I think the hat is for the doll buddy.

Jordan fell asleep right after presents. Too much partying for him.

Went from my mom's to my other grandma's house and Skylar was very happy about the sweet rolls and bacon.

My Dancer

2010-12-17T08:23:00.001-08:00

Skylar has been loving her tap/ballet/gymnastics class. Unfortunately, the place is closing down and she had her last class this week. We got her signed up for a new place that she will start in January. I hope she likes it just as much.

November

2010-11-28T18:29:00.001-08:00

Okay so everyone is getting on my case about not posting often enough. I won't name names. You know who you are! :) It's hard to do with all the little one running around me. Here is an update for the month of November.
We spent three days at Disneyland. The 3rd day there was also the anniversary of when Paul and I started dating. 13 years!! That is soooo long!
Skylar was super excited to see all the princesses. Jordan wanted to say hi to Snow White but she told him, "No Jordan. It's for girls!"
Jordan is never afraid to speak his mind. When Pluto came to say hello to him at lunch he told him that his lunch "tastes like dog food!"

It was VERY wet but the kids didn't seem to mind a bit.

Best friends

Someone was way too tired. When he woke up he had a huge red mark on the side of his face. Poor guy :(

This is when we first arrived. They were so excited.

This is her 2nd time to Disneyland and she was only 3 1/2 months old. Can we say spoiled??

The kids got to tell Santa what they wanted. Skylar said "a blue purse" and Jordan said "milk." Seriously Jordan? Milk???

Tree house

Thanksgiving

Thankful for my wonderful dad who held Maci while I ate :)

My 3 cuties

Setting up the tree.

"We love egg nog!"

Santa hats

Tree lot

Jordan was not happy when we told him he couldn't run around.

So happy

"What is this thing on my head!?"

Birthdays and Pumpkins

2010-10-25T19:01:00.000-07:00

I can't believe my little girl turned three this week! Where has the time gone? I can proudly say she is almost completely potty trained though. Yea!! I took her birthday off work so I could leave the other two kids with my mom and spend the day with her. She rarely gets her own time with me anymore. We went to get her nails painted. Then we went to Starbucks and got a really unhealthy chocolate drink. We walked around with our drinks for a while. Then we went shopping for a new Tinkerbell dress and to pick up her birthday cake. It was a fun day. That night the family came over for cake and ice-cream.
Skylar asked for a baby crib. I found the cutest one ever! She loves it.

This is my little niece. Isn't she adorable?

Pumpkin Patch

Life as a Family of Five

2010-10-06T17:47:00.000-07:00

Wow I thought life was busy before, but I had no clue! It's like a little zoo around here. We are working on potty training which is a blast :( I have sunk so low as to pay my kids money for going to the bathroom on the toilet. It was actually a pretty good idea if I do say so myself. They earned quarters over the weekend and then they got to go to the store with me and pick out a candy. They each went up to the register and paid for their snacks themselves. It was really cute. I wish I had taken pictures of Jordan in his pajamas last night. Talk about cute!! I love love love the kids in winter clothes! They just look so snuggly. Unfortunately it is going to start warming up again soon. Here are some recent pictures. The first three were taken by my cousin shortly after Maci was born. He is an awesome photographer! If anyone wants his info I will get it for you. He is very patient with kids and puts 100% into making his pictures come out perfect.

New Pictures

2010-09-14T14:24:00.001-07:00

How Quickly Things Can Change...

2010-09-11T13:44:00.001-07:00

Last night Maci went from completely healthy to a stuffy nose, bad cough, and fever. The doctor told us if her temperature goes above 100.4 it is "an emergency." This morning it was 100.8. I took her to the doctor, not extremely worried because I figured she just has a virus. The doctor acted very concerned. He put a catheter in her to collect a urine sample. He then sent us to the hospital for blood work. He said if the results were abnormal, she would be admitted. Luckily, everything came back fine. We are waiting for some 2 and 3 day cultures to return, but she should be okay. I feel so blessed to have three healthy kids. I have been thinking about all the mothers who take their kids to the doctor like this and are given some aweful and scary diagnosis. I don't know how I could watch my baby suffering every day and not be able to heal them.....

Avila Beach

2010-09-08T19:57:00.000-07:00

My mom and I took the kids to Avila Beach for the day today. It was cold, but lots of fun. The seagulls were stalking us like crazy! Oh, and I tried to teach Skylar what bueys (spelling?) were. She got home and told Paul, "Daddy me see boobies!" Here's some pics.

PISMO BEACH

2010-08-25T21:03:00.000-07:00

We went to Pismo for the day today. The kids have a book they like us to read about giving a cat a cupcake. In the book, the cat goes to the beach so they have been asking to go too. They are finally old enough to enjoy it. The look on Jordan's face as he is running from the wave is priceless!

Little Maci's first time to the beach

Buried in the sand This is not from the beach, but I had to put it on here. This was a couple days ago. Skylar woke up early and Paul said he would get up with her while I showered. I came out to the living room and found them on the couch sleeping. Notice that Paul stole her princess blanket! He's going to kill me for posting this!!

Pictures

2010-08-10T18:43:00.001-07:00

I have literally taken hundreds of photos already. Here are just a few. I would write more but I have my hands full! I will just say I am loving my little girl and our family has been truly blessed. She is so precious! umm.....don't know why this is upside down :)

She's Here!

2010-07-30T15:53:00.001-07:00

Maci Jayde was born on 7/28 at 2:00 pm. She is absolutely perfect if you ask me! She was 6 pounds 10 ounces and 19 inches long. Her features are so tiny she only fits in preemie clothes. This is a picture of her with the smallest newborn shirt we have lying on top of her....a little too big :)

This is one of the pictures we had taken at the hospital. I can't show the best one yet because it is going out in announcements :) Funny faces

First time with a pacifier.

Hearing test

Going home from the hospital

She loves holding her baby sister

11 More Days!

2010-07-17T19:02:00.000-07:00

Well if I don't have this baby by the 28th, the doctor is breaking my water. My due date is not until Aug. 7th but I am having constant contractions and there has been some concern about how this is affecting her heartbeat. I can't believe we have a maximum of 11 days before we meet her. I wonder if she will look like Skylar. The ultrasound showed she had hair. Skylar had a lot of hair. We just bought a Flip camera and I love it. Here's my first flip video clip. I love when Skylar makes her cute little faces.

This is pretty funny. Jordan has started saying "chocolate" all the time. He yells it in public whenever he sees anything chocolate, but as you will see it does not exactly sound like the word chocolate when he says it. This is going to get embarrasing, but it's also pretty hilarious :)

Happy 4th of July

2010-07-05T07:59:00.000-07:00

We spend every 4th of July at my grandparents' house, swimming and having fun with the family. It's crazy to think that this will be our last holiday without little Maci. I can't wait to meet her! How cool are these kids?

My little man

Poor Bella is getting her first tooth and she is not happy about it!

My kiddos with my cousin's son Seth. Getting 3 two year-olds to look at the camera at the same time is near impossible :)

First time wearing floaties. They didn't last long for Skylar. She doesn't want to swim by herself yet.

Swimming with Daddy.

Jordan is our little fish. He will stay in the water shivering and cry when you make him get out. Here he is playing with my dad. My dad went with us to Vietnam when we picked him up and they have always had such a special bond. He definitely loves his grandpa!

Jordan's very first time floating by himself in the water. He was so proud.

I caught my kids pretending to be babies with their cousin Bella's toys. This could be a bad sign :)

All the other kids were afraid of the fireworks. Skylar was the only one who stayed outside and watched. She was so happy that everyone kept telling her how brave she was.

Jordan watched the fireworks from a window inside. My mom finally got him onto the porch, but it didn't last long. He actually did a lot better than I thought he would though.

Skylar and her great-grandpa.

Really Late Father's Day Pics

2010-07-01T14:22:00.001-07:00

I have been so lazy with my blog lately. Here's some pictures from Father's Day. Better late than never right?

Gilroy

2010-06-13T08:53:00.000-07:00

We went to Gilroy Gardens amusement park this weekend. Of course we also had to stop at the outlet mall! It was fun. Probably our last trip as a family of four. :)

Looking good in the car. Skylar has some wierd obsession about her sunglasses now. She constantly covers her eyes and says "bright" when they aren't on. What a little diva.
Jordan wants to do whatever his sister does

Can you say sugar high?

I have no idea why Jordan has bad teeth Haha.....I really don't give him that much sugar, but it was a special day :)

My little gymnist

Jordan's favorite thing to do is eat. He thinks that's more exciting than the rides.

Lifting her hands like a brave little girl. Skylar is going to be our little roller coaster rider. She's not afraid of anything.

Jordan was too scared for this ride so she went all by herself.....twice!

Me and my princess

Jordan figuring out the chair in the hotel spins around....hours of fun!

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-09T20:30:00.001-07:00

I can't even remeber what it felt like to not be a mommy. I can't imagine life without the joy of my children. Their smiles are what I live for. They make every day worth waking up for.

My baby girl on the teeter totter. When did she get big enough for a teeter totter?? I wish she would stop growing up so fast!
My brother, sister-in-law, niece, and Skylar.

Jordan had so much fun swinging with his great grandpa.
He loves the teeter totter too.
My mom and my niece. I have the best mom on Earth! I pray that I will be able to be for my children what she has always been for me, but I doubt I will ever compare.
This is the look I got when I said, "Don't smile Skylar."

Mickey Fun and Toddler Beds

2010-05-02T07:26:00.000-07:00

My mom and I took the kids to Disneyland Friday and Saturday while Paul and my dad painted and decorated Jordan's new room. I think the girls got the better deal! Haha. We had so much fun. The kids just love Disneyland. Skylar was especially excited about it this time.

Heading into the park after checking into our hotel. We got up at 3:15 Friday to get there early. Maybe Snow White was not a good choice for the first ride of the day. Jordan was terrified :(

Waiting anxiously to ride Dumbo. Who says elephants can't fly?

"I love you brother."

Jordan is always so amazed at the Clubhouse show. He can't believe the Einsteins and Mickey are really right in front of him.

The cars and the rockets are Skylar's favorite rides. She talked about the "beep beep" ride for a week before we left.

What a goofball!!

Jordan was so excited when he saw his new room and his racecar bed last night. The guys did a really good job. And although Skylar still comes into our room in the night after 2 1/2 months in her toddler bed, he slept in his room all night long!! Yea!

He loves his car pillows

Happy 80th Grandpa

2010-04-20T19:36:00.001-07:00

Last weekend most of the family went to Bass Lake and had a party for my grandpa's 80th birthday. The kids had fun running around and dancing at the party.

My little babies look so grown up in this picture.

Always the center of attention! Running in circles around the dance floor

Dancing with her great-grandpa

Jordan is a dancing machine!

Izabella Joy

2010-04-09T19:11:00.000-07:00

We have a niece! My brother's first child. She's beautiful. She was born yesterday at 3:51 and weighed 7 lbs. 8 oz. It was also my dad's birthday yesterday so that made it extra special! Skylar is so good with the baby. She just loves her. Jordan's not so sure yet, but he'll get used to it. I can't believe my little brother has a baby. The look on his face when he came out of the delivery room was priceless. He's going to be such a good dad. I'm really proud of him. I can't wait until I can see her again tomorrow. I love her so much already!!

This is the kids looking at a picture of the baby on the camera before they could see her in person. Kids aren't allowed in the hospital anymore :(

My sister-in-law and the baby

Skylar was so excited when Billy let her "hold" the baby

Happy Easter

2010-04-04T18:54:00.000-07:00

We spent Saturday at Valley Children's Hospital with Jordan, but we were discharged Saturday night and got to have a fun Easter. The kids were really able to understand the concept of hunting for eggs this year and they had a blast. We got them a swing set for Easter and surprised them with it this morning.

The three pregos...Me, my cousin's wife, and my sister-in-law.

My Little Gymnasts

2010-03-13T19:07:00.001-08:00

Oh Happy Day!

2010-03-06T18:45:00.000-08:00

Skylar just learned this song and she sings it all the time. She loves to sing and dance. I think it's so cute!

Toddler Bed

2010-02-27T18:40:00.001-08:00

Last night we took down all of Skylar's poodle decorations and crib and put up princess decorations, border, and a new princess toddler bed. She was so excited to see her new bed. Although it took 2 1/2 hours to get her to fall asleep in it and I actually had to lay in the bed with her. It's a very small bed by the way!! Hopefully tonight will be better. What happened to my little baby girl? She's growing up so fast. Oh, and we found out Friday we are definitely having a girl. Yea!

Telling Grandpa thanks for his help

It's a Girl!!!.....Probably

2010-02-20T19:36:00.000-08:00

We had our ultrasound yesterday and the nurse said she is 90% sure it's a girl!! The cord kept getting in the way so we go back Monday just to make sure, but for now we are assuming it's a girl. Her name will be Maci Jayde. Here are some recent pics of the big borther and sister in action.
Skylar will be such a good sister. She loves taking care of her babies!
Hugs :)

Silly sunglass faces

The Next American Idol?

2010-02-05T20:00:00.001-08:00

The kids have learned a new song....well 2 words of it anyway. Apple, banana. They sing it in the car, in bed, at the dinner table, in the doctor's office. Tonight, Skylar learned that she can say "apple" really quite and then "banana" really loud. She was so proud of herself and performed her trick over and over and over and over....I decided to finally tape it.

Play Date

2010-02-01T19:36:00.000-08:00

We had a play date with my friend Camisha and her daughter Emmah on Sunday. Emmah is about 6 weeks younger than Skylar. We went to the park where all three kids decided they would play alone instead of with eachother....Some date! :) Oh well, me and Camisha got to play and that's all that really mattered right?

Here is Emmah, very annoyed that I keep trying to take her picture.
Jordan was a little too dressed up for the park, but he still had fun talking to all the strangers. He needs to learn some boundaries!

Skylar and Emmah both refused to look at the camera at the same time and definitely were not going to smile for me. Talk about two little stubborn princesses!

Okay this is obviously not at the park, but it's Jordan's new favorite spot...the ironing basket.

Our Little Miracle Turns 2!

2010-01-12T18:32:00.000-08:00

This time one year ago, we were in Vietnam looking for a flight home. We actually held our little boy for the first time on January 6, 2009. Anyone who followed this 3 year adoption and all the twists and turns along the way know that he is nothing short of a miracle! He truly is. He was born early weighing 3 pounds. His twin did not survive and hospital records say Jordan was blue and had shallow breathing when he was dropped off there by a family member. He is a survivor. We had such a difficult time getting him home and it actually almost didn't happen due to government issues. I can't believe he has been here a whole year. He went from barely being able to roll over at a year old, not opening his mouth for food, not allowing anyone to hold his hand, and being so sick that he was on twice daily breathing treatments to walking, running, doing gymnastics, feeding himself, eating ALL THE TIME, holding hands with no problems, talking, and being off of all his breathing medications and inhalers. He's such a strong little boy and we are so blessed to have him!
To celebrate his birthday on the 9th, we went to Disneyland on the 8th, Legoland on the 9th, and had family over for pizza and cake on the 10th.
Jordan and Skylar loved wearing the 3D glasses at Disneyland.
Say Cheese!

Pretending to drive the cars at Legoland

The kids played with Bob the Builder forever!

Look who woke up on the right side of the bed!

It's my party and I'll strip if I want to.

He tried eating his cake with his fork, but it took too long.

Playing with his new basketball hoop from Mommy and Daddy

I love this video. We rolled the windows down on the way to Legoland and the kids had so much fun playing in the wind!

Our 7 Christmases

2009-12-26T21:13:00.000-08:00

So we had 7 Christmases this year. Christmas Eve was at my aunt's house, Christmas morning at our house, by 9:30 we had to be at my grandma's, by 2:30 we were at Paul's aunt's house, that evening was spent at Paul's parents', the next morning at my parents, and 11:00 that morning my other grandma's house. It was fun though. The kids had a blast opening their presents and going to all the parties. It was so nice to finally have Jordan here for Christmas.

Leaving cookies for Santa
Christmas Eve
Skylar with my cousin Chelsea

Skylar skating for the 1st time on Christmas morning

Jordan was so excited about his new wagon

Her very own computer

"I'm going to need a minute."

Jordan tried to open all his gifts without dropping his cereal bowl

Playing at my grandma's house

Skylar, Jordan, and their cousin Seth

Playing the piano with Paul's cousin Monica

Jordan wouldn't leave the oranges alone and kept calling them balls

Our nephews, Nicholas and Ryan

Jordan loves my brother!

Skylar and my mom

Skylar inside of her barbie car box.....what's wrong with this picture??

Learning how to control her new remote control car. Jordan stayed far away....scary!

This is at my other grandma's house

"Look, more food!"

WE'RE PREGNANT!!

2009-12-16T17:10:00.000-08:00

About 7 weeks. We saw and heard the heartbeat today.....so precious! We are very excited. We will have 3 kids under age 2. That should be the definition of insanity :) If we aren't insane already, we will be soon haha.
When I found out a few weeks ago, I gave Paul a gift and told him it was an early Thanksgiving present. Inside was Jordan's shirt. I had designed it to read "I'm going to be a big brother!" Here's the video of him opening it.

Happy Birthday to Me

2009-12-06T18:21:00.000-08:00

Another busy weekend! I talked a while back about our family tradition of Tree Night at my grandma's house. The past few years we have also done one at my mom's. That was Friday. Saturday we went out of town Christmas shopping all day and then went to an AWESOME light show that night. Today was spent baking all my X-mas goodies. The kids frosted cookies for the first time, but Jordan refused to eat any cookies with frosting on them. He wanted a plain one. He was actually afraid of the frosting!

Our Tree

2009-12-01T19:07:00.001-08:00

We decorated our tree last night. The kids were so excited about it.

3 Christmases went by waiting for our little boy. It is surreal to finally have him here. This is his ornament that says "Waiting for Jordan 2006." We had no idea he would not be born for 2 more years and we already loved him so much. This year he was here to hang the ornament on his tree!

It's Christmastime!

2009-11-29T21:07:00.000-08:00

This was a crazy busy weekend. Friday morining me and Skylar went shopping with my mom and aunts. We left at 3:45. This is Skylar's 3rd black Friday shopping with the girls. She's such a trooper. Then we went to pick out our Christmas tree. Unfortunately they could not flock it right away so we don't get to pick it up until tomorrow. Today the kids went to a friend's birthday party at the gymnastics place. Then we went to my grandma's for Tree Night. Tree Night is a family tradition that began when my mom was a child. The entire extended family goes to my grandparents' house for pizza after they set up their tree. We exchange small gifts and have a good time together. It's kind of our kick off to the holiday season.

Picking out the tree

Tree Night...The kids wore Santa and Mrs. Claus outfits.

They later chaned into their matching pj's that said "Dear Santa....I can explain!"

Happy Thanksgiving!

2009-11-26T19:23:00.000-08:00

Hope everyone had a good day! We did. I have so much to be thankful for!

Back to the Blog

2009-11-24T06:10:00.000-08:00

I've been behind on my blog because I started a facebook account and spent all my computer time trying to figure it all out. I think it's overwhelming! Who has time for that many friends? Haha. Here are some pics from over the weekend.

Skylar petting the doggie. She no longer says "dog" she just barks everytime she sees one. Cute at home....not so cute in public.
I think they are a little confused. You are supposed to play with the toys in the toy bin, not take the toys out and get in it.

Muscle man. I guess he's learning in gymnastics after all!
Baking cookies with Mommy
"Keep on baking ladies!"

Playtime Pics

2009-11-13T19:37:00.001-08:00

I can't imagine my life without this little boy!Love that smile!

Skylar was so excited about her new winter pajamas.

Skylar somehow manages to get Jordan to do whatever she wants, including pushing her around the house in her doll stroller.

Cuddling in the blanket before bed.

Billy and Brooke

2009-11-08T17:33:00.000-08:00

My brother and his wife just got back from a month in Washington. The kids were so excited to see them. Especially because they brought presents!!

My sister-in-law, Brooke, is 4 months pregnant with their first child.
Grandpa got worn out pushing the kids around and around and around and around....

Jordan and my dadJordan just might like his new Mickey as much as he likes his monkeys!

My brother and Skylar

Trick or Treat

2009-11-01T19:18:00.001-08:00

The kids had so much fun trick or treating and passing out candy. I kind of thought they would be afraid of all the other people in costumes, but they did great. They ran from house to house and were so excited.

We bought the kids each a Mr. Potato Head for Halloween. Skylar loves hers, but for some reason Jordan is terrified of it! I don't know why he thinks it's so scary, but he screamed like this every time the thing was anywere near him! Ready to go!

"Can I wear these shoes?"

"Look what they gave me!"

Awww......so cute

"Gimme more candy!"

So much candy, so little tummies.

Trying to sneak the candy they are supposed to be passing out

Can you say sugar high?

Pat Pat Pat

2009-10-30T08:11:00.000-07:00

Jordan is seriously obsessed with Little Einsteins. It's a show about a group of little kids who fly around in their rocket and solve missions. The kids have to pat their legs to make the rocket take off. Jordan walks around all day saying "pat pat pat". I go to get him out of his crib in the mornings and he rolls over half awake, pats his legs, and says "pat pat." I think he even dreams about the rocket!

Fall Carnival

2009-10-24T20:41:00.000-07:00

There was a carnival tonight at the kids' gymnastics place. Their first ever carnival. Their first haunted house too. Oh, and I hate to brag (okay I kind of like it) but my little Mickey and Minnie won the costume contest!

Taking our Monkeys to the Zoo

2009-10-23T19:04:00.001-07:00

Jordan loves the monkeys that hang around his neck. He has 3 now and it's hard to separate him from them.Skylar loved looking at the birds and ducks.

How handsome is he!?

Mommy tried not to have a panic attack while she got closer and closer to the peacock. She has no fear of anything!

Looking at the big eagles

Playing it cool

Happy Birthday Skylar

2009-10-19T19:07:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was Skylar's party, but today was her actual birthday. She had a good day. This morning, while we were at work, my mom and aunt took them and their cousin to the pumpkin patch. Then on my lunch break I took Skylar to the mall and bought her some clothes and a big pretzel. I skipped out of work early this afternoon and we took them to Boingos. Boingos is a really fun place. They have a bunch of bounce houses and slides in a huge warehouse. Her and Jordan both had a blast. What a busy day! They are both sound asleep in their beds now.

Skylar's Second Birthday Party

2009-10-18T18:33:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is Skylar's second birthday. I can't believe it. Time goes by so fast. She is such an amazing little girl and she has such a kind heart. I just can't believe my little baby girl is already going to be 2! Today we had her party and her gymnastics place. It was a lot of fun. Tons of kids came and she had a really good time.

Playing with all the new toys

Jordan bought Skylar a princess music video for her birthday and she loves it. She was dancing around the living room all night. It was so cute. Of course the second I turned on the camera she stopped performing, but I managed to get a little bit of it :)

Pumpkin Patch

2009-10-09T19:29:00.001-07:00

We went to a pumpkin patch today. We took Skylar last year and it was fun, but this year was so much better because she was old enough to enjoy it and because Jordan was here!

"I want this one Daddy."
"I want this one!"
Cute as a pumpkin

"Hurry Mommy, Jordan is escaping!"

"Why can't I eat it? It's corn!"

Playing together in the corn

"Pull harder Jordan."

"Let's go!"

Me and my little man......and a big scarecrow.

Fun with Friends

2009-10-04T19:53:00.000-07:00

I know I've gone a little overboard with the park pictures lately, but that's about all we've been doing. Today we went with my friend Erron, her 9 month-old son Trent, and her 7 year-old daughter Jasmine.

Soccer, Snacks, and Silliness

2009-09-20T19:51:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone had a good weekend. We did, but it went by way too fast. Here are some pics from today and yesterday. So handsome

Skylar stops mid-run to pose for the camera

My little man running wild
Poor Jordan is 20 months old and his 6-12 month shorts just fall right off while he is playing. He's so tiny!! He doesn't care, he just keeps right on playing. :)

We made cupcakes today. Yummy!

We went to our nephew Nicholas' soccer game on Saturday. Skylar was fascinated. I think she's going to be a soccer player!

This is Paul's younger sister and her 1 year-old son Ryan

Nicholas in action. He's the second from the right.

Another day at the Park

2009-09-18T19:19:00.000-07:00

This morning while Paul was at work I took the kids to another nearby park. They love playing at the park. It is so fun to watch them play together. They are getting to the age where they really get excited about going places.

This is a video of the kids dancing this morning. They love dancing. Jordan usually has pretty good rhythm. Maybe one of them will be famous one day. What do you think?

Picnic at the Park

2009-09-04T20:26:00.001-07:00

We had a picnic at the park tonight. It was nice because it was a lot cooler outside.

Back from Disneyland

2009-08-30T19:56:00.000-07:00

We had sooooo much fun!! I wanted lots of pictures for my scrapbook, but I think I overdid it a little. When we got home tonight I realized I had taken 364 pictures in 4 days! I can't help it. These kids are just too cute! Well, I'm exhausted so I will just let these pictures speak for themselves.

Here is a video of the kids inside Mickey's house. Jordan just kept dancing to the piano music. He dances to everything. Even the washing machine!

Ready for Disneyland

2009-08-18T19:49:00.000-07:00

We are getting ready for our trip to Disneyland. We will be leaving in less than 2 weeks. We are soooooo excited!!

More Pictures

2009-08-17T19:25:00.000-07:00

Okay I have been scolded for not posting in a while. I was waiting to get our new pictures scanned. I can't do it until tomorrow so I will post them when I can. They are sooooo cute! Here are a few home shots in the meantime.

Skye loves to sit between the table and the couch. She learned this trick from the dog!
Riding together on the toy train

"What are you looking at?"

"No pictures please!"

We bought Jordan this monkey at the zoo months before he came home. Now it is his favorite toy. He won't put it down. Here he is sleeping with the monkey that I thought he would never hold in the crib I thought he would never really be in. What a miracle!!

Jordan and his monkey. He holds it up to his face and hugs it while saying "Ahhhh" all day long.

Skylar loves to share with her brother. She is such a good sister.

Fish face

Furniture Fun

2009-08-07T19:52:00.000-07:00

We were in a nearby town today and found this super cute toddler furniture. It matches our living room couch perfectly. A loveseat and chair that both have rockers on the bottom. The kids are loving them. Skylar likes to put her new Build-A- Bear dog on the couch and rock him.

My Little Goofballs

2009-08-04T19:37:00.000-07:00

Our kids have so much fun playing together. Jordan does everything Skylar does. Although she is only 2 months older, she definitely plays the role of the big sister. Here are a couple videos from last night and tonight. 8-3-09

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

2009-08-02T19:39:00.000-07:00

I want to wish a very happy birthday to my mom and best friend! She is truly the best! She is the most self-sacrificing, giving, caring, loving, special woman I know. I am truly blessed to be her child.

This is my mom and her mom with the babies. My mom is going to HATE that I'm putting all these pictures of her on here. But isn't she beautiful?!Skylar and my parents at Knott's Berry FarmThis picture was taken today at Jamba Juice

We just got these Time Out spots. I love them!

"Please Jesus, help me to get out of time out. I promise to never hit the tv again!"

A Day at the Beach

2009-07-25T20:39:00.001-07:00

We took a day trip to the beach today. The whole extended family went for the weekend and we met them there. It was fun.

This is my wonderful grandpa. He still teaches snowboarding all winter!!

Mommy and Jordan

"Hey Grandpa! How fast can you run?"

Skylar and her great grandma

Jordan and Uncle Billy

Jordan and my cousin Chelsea. Chelsea was adopted from Korea 20 years ago. What a blessing to our family!

Daddy, Jordan, Matt, and Seth

Skylar loved digging in the sand

Driving to SLO. Avila Beach was too cold.

"Mommy, can I have a pony? Pleeeeeaaaasse!!!!"

Jordan loved his cookies

Car Ride Home Video
Okay I know everyone will probably be thinking, "How horrible that she is filming that!" But this is after 90 minutes of screaming. I tried toys, drinks, promises of french fries, and everything else I could think of but they weren't having it.

Funny Man

2009-07-20T18:18:00.000-07:00

Daddy is at his fighting practice so we are at home learning to make funny noises.

Gilroy-Round 2

2009-07-17T20:51:00.000-07:00

Me and my mom took the kids back to Gilroy Gardens today. It was fun, but very hot!
Jordan wasn't too sure if he liked the fishies
"Look mom, I'm in the strawberry"

Best friends

Yea!"Someone needs to hold my hat!"

"Can I get my license now?"

Jordan loved playing in the water

Skylar's very first Icee. She refused to put it down.

This is a video of Skylar on the miniature horses. I can't figure out how to turn it around so you will have to turn your head sideways if you want to see LOL :)

What's a Mom to Do?

2009-07-12T17:58:00.000-07:00

My kids have developed an obsession with banging on the television and fireplace! They do it together and make a wonderful team. I on the other hand am about to rip my hair out! I used to put them in their rooms for time out. But today Skylar was able to open her bedroom door for the first time. She just walked out and laughed at me. So after numerous attempts at time out, several lectures, and a little bribery (none of which seemed to make a dent in their plans), I finally did what any self-respecting supermom would do....I gave up and started filming them.

It's hard to get mad at them when they are so cute. They are always hugging and kissing eachother now. Here's a video to show you just how much they love eachother.

Skylar has become really attached to dolls and stuffed animals lately. She got a new doll today that has a bottle so she was holding and feeding it all day. She wouldn't go to bed until she put the baby to sleep in her stroller. She is also refusing to sleep without a thousand stuffed animals around her so I have to sneak back into her room and take some out so she can breathe a little! Here's a picture of her right before she fell asleep last night.

Happy 4th of July!

2009-07-05T19:50:00.001-07:00

We always go to my grandparents' house on the 4th of July. The whole family goes and it is so much fun. We spend the day swimming and having our traditional ping pong tournament (which I always manage to lose). Oh most importantly, there is always homemade ice cream. At night we do fireworks. I had no idea how the kids would react this year. Skylar did great. We actually had trouble keeping her away from the fire. She is not afraid of anything....Except my scary pink vacuum. Jordan was afraid, but he didn't cry. He just held on really tight and gave me super good hugs, which was absolutely fine by me.

Skylar's New Trick

2009-06-24T19:02:00.001-07:00

Mealtime in our house is always an adventure. Skylar is learning to eat with a spoon and drink from a cup. As you can see below, the spoon is often held in one hand while her other hand is used to feed herself. This is a picture of her with refried beans all over herself. Check out the video below to see her new bubble trick. I can't get her to actually drink her milk anymore!!