twobabiestwoyears

THANKFUL

2011-11-24T20:28:00.000-08:00

This time of the year is time to stop and think about all we have to be thankful for! There is so much on my heart that I am thankful for......

1.God's love and his never ending protection, provision and grace

2. My husband who works so hard for us and who I respect and love with my whole heart

3. My crazy kiddos who are God's gift to me in a way that words will never express

4. My family that surrounds us with love and support and care

5. My friends who are my iron that sharpens me daily. I am forever amazed at how God continuously provides amazing women who love me even as they know me and help me become a better wife, mom, friend, teacher.

6. Our church!!! Crossroads is the home I've always wanted and the church that blesses our lives in numerous ways.

7. Our jobs and the way that God has provided for us financially and relationally through them.

8. The teachers who love on Jackson and Presley everyday

9. God's provision of Nikki, our babysitter, who loves on the kids and makes me have ease knowing that they are in her care.

10. The future...and the promise that God has so much more to show me, teach me, lead me into and out of, and for the promise of eternal life with Him.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Something is missing

2011-11-15T20:22:00.000-08:00

Jackson lost his first tooth and it was really an exciting night! He lost it at school after a few months of his "wiggley-woo!" (what he named the tooth)! He brought it home in a little treasure box from the school nurse and we were all really excited to wait for the tooth fairy. She did come and left a new toothbrush, a dollar and a certificate! It's so strange to have that little perfect smile forever changed. I remember feeling that little tooth pop through when he was 6 months old, and now there it was in a little box....seriously, I was sad. Well, I guess this is just the first of many!

Happy Birthday Daddy

2011-11-13T19:45:00.000-08:00

SURPRISE..Happy Birthday Daddy! We decorated, made cupcakes, and showered Daddy with presents....because WE LOVE DADDY!!! He loves us too and the kiddos wanted to make sure he felt special on his birthday! He loved it and was super happy to come home to a suprise celebration.

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T19:30:00.000-07:00

This year Halloween was, well, what Halloween is....FUN! Presley chose to be a spooky, nice witch, and Jackson was an ANGRY BIRD! It was another fun year of trick or treating and dressing up!

Happy Friends at the Happiest Place

2011-10-05T10:56:00.000-07:00

We took a day off and went to Disneyland with our good friends Reilley, Gracie and their mommy, my good friend, Melissa.

Jackson and Presley have certain friends who they refer to as "our family" and these sweet girls are on that list. It was absolutely one of my favorite trips to Disneyland because these four were delighted to be together and egging eachother on to go on the big rides.

They were silly, silly, silly, all day long. (I forgot to mention the downpour of rain that we encountered when we got to D-land. We were soaked from head to toe for a few hours...but that didn't matter, we had so much fun!)

Leaving on a Jet Plane.....to SEATTLE

2011-09-23T18:22:00.000-07:00

Our best friends moved to Seattle and we have been very sad without them. They are our family and Jackson and Presley have not stopped asking for them, drawing pictures for them, thinking about them and praying for them ever since. I decided it was more than about time to go up and see their new home and new life in Issaquah! The kiddos did GREAT on the airplanes and were amazing travelers with ease! It was wonderful to see our family and play and play and visit some beautiful Washington scenery and food :). The kids were instantly joyful to be back together and just as sad to leave. We are going to try to make a yearly trip to visit and will count down the days until they visit us back here at "home!".I love Seattle..there is just something so calm and relaxing.....and less dramatic than Grey's Anatomy.

We went to the Seattle Aquarium and enjoyed the amazing sea-life!

I love Austen David....he's my "3rd" baby!

Silly girl

Bathtime bandtime was everynight! So fun.

Love love love him.

Presley really liked the Falls.

Again, my sweet boy!

The parks in Seattle are AMAZING!

Birthday boy Caiden turned 4!!! I love my Caiden Thomas

Love love love

Everyone was always holding hands!

So hard to get a good picture with these silly ones!

Jenn and I had girls' night out with some yummy crab legs.

This is their beautiful neighborhood. We miss them so much, but are so happy that they are liking their new home and our new vacation spot!

First Day of Kindergarten!!

2011-08-17T14:31:00.000-07:00

Well, since I couldn't figure out a way to freeze time, Jackson started Kindergarten! He was so excited to go and now the big day finally arrived. I was nervous, but he was so excited that it helped me calm down. I got to stay for an hour and hang out with him, take a tour of the school, do some projects with him and then it was time to go. He didn't cry (yay!) I didn't cry (surprising), and off our adventure began into the world of Elementary school.

I loved seeing him use that creative mind already.......could he be more excited????

I really feel God's blessing on us as he has a wonderful teacher, Ms. Clyde, who seems like a perfect fit for him. I have seen God's hand on my kids in so many ways. Preschool teachers who have become part of our family, our pediatrician who has been a tremendous support, help and calm presence in our life, his amazing T-ball coach who was a great first coach for Jackson, the friends and families we've gotten to know at their schools, church leaders who love on our kids and touch their lives, their sweet gymnastic coach.....sometimes I sit back and am overwhelmed by how God is taking care of us. Why would I doubt He would?? He loves to give us good things...and even better when He gives them to our own children.

Our First Family Vacation......Legoland!

2011-08-11T14:07:00.000-07:00

Our first family vacation was to Legoland in Carlsbad, Ca. I must say the kiddos were so super excited about everything!!! HOTEL! Vacation!!! Shuttle!!! Legoland! Beach! did I mention HOTEL! I loved our time together as a family! Jackson boy and Presley girl are becoming good friends and were very silly together! The weather was perfect and the beach was so nice. How I wish we could live by the beach! Dream dream dream dream.

The most interesting fish in the aquarium for sure!

My girl loves rollercoasters.....! Anything fast for Presley is perfect fun in her little mind!

A SHARK...............AHHHHHHHHHHH!

Paul had surgery on his nose for some cancer, so he was a trooper being out and about! He sure looked rough and tough!

Presley could not get enough of the waterslide area at Legoland...I think we lost count somewhere around 30 times in a row!

Remember these?

We even found Presley as a lego-girl!

These little faces...........oh how I love them.

Digging for dinasour bones :)

Sillies...

Touching starfish at the aquarium.

So fun getting to race on these firetrucks and police cars!

Jellyfish were there favorite sealife of the day!

Our Roth family shoe uniform!

Here's to more family vacations!!!!!!!!

It's my BIIIIRRRTTTHDDDAYYYY! (Presley)

2011-07-31T15:39:00.000-07:00

Dear my little Presley,

You were screaming "IT'S MY BIIIRRTTTHDDAYY WWWOOOHOOO!" and waving your sweet little arms while we were driving to your birthday party! You are in love with life and all it has to offer your little self. You had a great birthday full of all your "girls" from school and our "family/friends/family!" You love gymnastics so much, and it was such a joyful party having it there and watching you so elated!

Happy 4th Birthday. I can't believe I don't have a 3 year old anymore. I feel like you have been 3 for a few years now....well, let me take that back. I feel like you have been 3 going on 14 for a few years now.

You are so incredibly funny and turning into quite a performer. You love to put on "shows" for us..sing your original songs and do some pretty interesting dancing moves. You want everyone to "watch you!" This reminds me of someone.....oh yes a little redhead who sang the whole "Annie" tape wherever her mom dragged the ghetto blaster. You are a little Staci Beth...but you are better than I ever was and cuter and smarter and adorable-er (if that's a word!).

You are such a leader at school and love being with "your girls" (Brooke, Phoebe, Isabella and Zoey). You love your teachers and they constantly tell me the funny things you say. You are wise beyond your years, and you HEAR everything anyone says...and then repeat it. Lovely. I think you might just be a CEO of something big one day. Or maybe an academy award winner. You are super strong willed, yet you don't like getting in trouble. You can throw a good tantrum, but hey, so could I...genetics!

Your future husband, Caiden Thomas Dutilly!

You are always playing make believe and I never know when I am your "baby" or your "daughter" or your "teacher" or your "student" or "Staci" or a "customer"... You play restaurant "server" the most. I love your creativity my Reeny. You love to draw and color and paint. The other day you told me you are an "artist". I believe you, you really are.

You love your DADDY the most, and that's okay....you ask him to sleep in your bed everynight. And, well, most days he does. You will only be little for a little amount of time, right? The other day I told you I was missing Daddy while he was at work, and this was your reply, with a lot of emotion, "HE IS MINE!!! YOU HAVE HAD HIM FOR A LONG TIME!, HE'S MINE NOW!!!!" Ok.....he can be "yours!"

You love to joke around with everyone and laugh and laugh. You love to do the "what's that?" joke on people and think it's so funny that you get to poke them in the nose! You may have my "dramatic genes" but you have your Daddy's "humor genes!" for sure.

You are my little adventure seeker..you love the fast roller coasters at Disneyland, you love to climb rocks, the higher, faster, crazy it is, the better for you!

You love to tease Jackson, and it makes him crazy, but you really do love him and care about his every need. You will be close friends and I know he will always look out for you, or vise versa, since you are the brave, strong and fearless one!!!!

You love coming to work with me and helping Meghan and seeing Melele (Melody) and all of my friends. You love being in my world, and I love being in yours! You love people and they love you too my dear!

You are learning about Jesus and often will pray for things. I think God is really going to have to take your gifts and talents and spunkyness and direct it His way. You believe in Him, it all makes sense to you, and you will be a leader for Him and a strong voice for Him.

You love to cuddle and you love attention and you love, LOVE! And I treasure you my little princess. You are the joy of our lives and the laughter!

You love "big girls" (teenagers) and long to be one, NOW. You always ask me when you will be able to go to the mall without me....never, of course, or at least for 10 years or so. You love all of your cousins and admire Jennica and Kaylie in all their "big girlness".. currently you have feathers and glitter in your long blond hair, your ears are pierced, you wouldn't be seen without a dress on and sparkly shoes...you are my girly girl who longs to be older and bigger...please don't grow up too fast. You are my baby!!! Just be 4 okay!!!!

I love you soooo much and you are the best daughter in the whole wide world!

Love

your mommy (the "best mommy in the whole wide world!"...or at least you tell me so!)

Jackson BOY!

2011-06-19T15:03:00.000-07:00

Boy....5 years old...no more toddler..! BOY! Sad, sad, but PROUD Mommy!

Jackson,

How in the world are you 5? I wish I could freeze time with you right now. You are absolutely all I could ever have imagined in having a little boy of my own. You have changed so much in this past year..you've become so much more of a "kid"...I miss my baby boy...but this is really a fun time for all who know you my dear.

You are my buddy and we have so much fun together. Disneyland has become our hangout, but hey, why not? You enjoy it like it's the first time you've been there...every single time. You live life to the fullest and everyone is your friend. The world can do you no wrong, well except for the "bad guys" that you ask me about...but you've never met one. You love Jesus, talk about Jesus, want to know more about Jesus and you are absolutely convinced that Jesus loves everyone and we are all a "family!"..you have a sensitive heart and care about others.

You aren't "rough and tough" but you are getting there. You would rather play "Prince rescues the princess at school with your favorite friend Nina, than play "shoot em up" with the boys. That's okay...you are a sweetheart and I'll take it. FOREVER. You've learned so so so much this year and you love to learn. You had fun and did a great job on our TBALL team this year, the A's. I think the part you liked best though, was the trophy at the end of the season.

You know every letter, number, and how to add and subtract. You love reading stories, especially funny ones. You love your sister, even though she is your sparring partner most days. You are never the one to start a fight or hurt her. You ask a lot of questions, but it's so fun to watch your little mind process my answers.

You love love love love trains (still) and anything that goes fast. You are a crazy boy on your bike and big wheel and powewheels. You love to go FASTTTTTT!!! You love going on walks with Daddy and there could never be too many trips to the park for you. Or the beach, or someone's house....you love LIFE, did I mention that?

You have loved your time at Tutor Time, and seem okay about leaving that behind, you like new adventures, just like I do.

Daddy is your buddy and you love his approval and the time you get to spend with "just him" is very precious to you. He's so proud of you..you are a good "man" just like he is :)

You were so proud to go upstairs at church to the "5s"...you were beaming that day. I'm so glad you love your life and everyone in it...Love God, love others....you've nailed it already!

Next stop...Kindergarten...(If I don't find a way to freeze time beforehand!)

Hunting Season!

2011-04-10T16:03:00.000-07:00

Easter time!!! So fun! Lots of hunting...hunting at school, hunting at home, bouncy castle (yes so spoiled). I love celebrating the LIFE we have in Christ because of Easter Sunday. Live it to the fullest! That's what we are supposed to do!

Dying our eggs was a fun filled adventure. You both love to dye dye dye those eggs.

When we finished Jackson said, "We really killed them"...get it, dye eggs..like die eggs! Funny boy!

A Day Out With Thomas

2011-03-01T15:39:00.000-08:00

We love our friend Gavin, and Gavin loves trains, and Jackson loves trains!

We took the train lovers to "A Day out With Thomas"

Jackson, Gavin, Ethan and Ryan!

Loving the Train Whistle!

SNOW DROUGHT OVER!

2011-01-02T15:23:00.000-08:00

SNOW!!!!!!!!!!!! It hasn't snowed since I was in 7th grade, making the year 1988. The drought ended !

January 2nd, 2011!

Needless to say, we had a blast! Fireplace inside...3-4 inches of snow outside....LOVE IT! I hope it snows again next year. I can't wait through another drought!

Christmas 2010

2011-01-01T15:11:00.000-08:00

Christmas Again and again...seems like these years fly by so quickly. This year was very fun as the kiddos get older. Watching them experience all the things of Christmas makes me enjoy it even more! Traditions are becoming just that, and it's great to try to celebrate Jesus during this time of year.

The Kwasneys came down to spend the night!!!! So exciting to start the celebrations with them. I hope this is a new tradition as well.

And the Grammy goes to.........

2010-11-19T15:08:00.000-08:00

Watch out Country Music..................................
Introducing "PREESSLLLEEEYY REEENYYY ROTTTHH!"

"Thank you Jesus"

2010-11-19T14:27:00.000-08:00

My little Jackson is an "old soul" and he is very aware of who Jesus already, which makes me more than happy...is there a word for knowing your son already understands and recognizes and feels the love of God at 4 years old? Writing this is emotional to say the least......Jackson often tells me things about Jesus and here are some of his latest sermons.

"Mommy, no one should ever be mad at God"

"When Grandma's Daddy (my dad) died and when Grandma's friend died, everyone in heaven was cheering when they got there...they were all cheering!" "They didn't clap, just cheered!"

"One day EVERYONE (and he stressed that) will hold hands all over the world and sing to Jesus....yep EVERYONE will sing to Jesus all together!"

"Mommy look at those clouds in the sky...aren't they beautiful....thank you Jesus!"

"Jesus, thank you for Mommy, may she have great sleep every night!"

Jackson, may you always know how deep and wide and long and deep is the love of Christ for you!

Happy "Pumpkinween!"

2010-10-31T14:46:00.000-07:00

Halloween or "Pumpkinween" as Presley still calls it was really fun this year. Each year the holidays come alive in new ways that I LOVE! Everything about Halloween was exciting and "amazing" and new for my little ones. Presley was "Annie" for their school carnival, and then on Halloween she wanted to be "Minnie Mouse"..the girl likes options. Jackson was "Wubzy" from his favorite show "WOW WOW Wubzy!" We love going trick or treating with Grandma and the "family" aka Kaylie, Jennica, David and Kyle. Presley enjoyed handing out candy a lot this year and Jackson wanted to be a marathon trick or treater! Good thing they don't like much candy yet, Mommy and Daddy got lots of treats!

Christmas in September

2010-09-04T21:40:00.000-07:00

My generous mother, and Jackson and Presley's Grandma, decided that we should get Jackson a train table for Christmas and that we should buy it while Toys R Us was having a sale this weekend on all train toys. Made sense, and she has been the biggest fan of getting him his own train table, since let's face it, the boy LOVES trains.....so she needed me to go pick it up...I tried to be all sly, like Jackson wouldn't notice the man following us with the 75 pound box going into the trunk and sticking out between his and Presley's seats? Right...so he wanted to promptly call Grandma...these were his words...

"Grandma, I need the train table NOT for Christmas, but today, okay Grandma....yes I'll be a good listener...yes mommy can build it...it's in the car...yes, okay..she said (meaning me) if you say NOT Christmas..okay, love you too!"

....I then realized what the rest of the day would consist of.

We brought it in piece by piece from the car..got out the instructions..I tried to give up numerous times..found Daddy's tools, dropped something on my big toe which now has a bruise on it, tried not to use swear words and then it "was finished".

So...needless to say the train table marathon that took me 4 1/2 hours is now done..it's not perfect..missing a few screws, just like mommy, and much joy and patience was had by all in the process...my spoiled children..Thanks Grandma, we love you!

I must say that I'm pretty impressed with myself..I had to build the table and the drawers, etc...after some undoing and re-doing..it all turned out well. Jackson stopped playing for a moment and came to me and hugged me saying, "thanks mom for building this train table"...

It's all glued down (thanks to my friend Teri's glue gun) and ready to surprise Daddy with in the morning..oh dear. All train lovers may come play anytime!

Blue tounges.....

2010-08-28T18:56:00.000-07:00

Making cookies with Grandma led to really silly blue tounges with Daddy.....

Presley's Birthday Party

2010-08-02T14:29:00.000-07:00

Jumpy Castle, Friends, Cupcakes, Family.....what else could a 3 year old girly girl need?

"Not Jackson!" (Happy Birthday my Presley Reeny)

2010-07-31T00:00:00.000-07:00

Yes Presley, "Not JACKSON!"..it's YOUR 3rd Birthday and not Jackson's. Happy Birthday my sweet, sassy, hilarious, smart, loving, imaginative, curious, did I say FUNNY? and amazing little girl. I can't believe you are 3, not that I feel you shouldn't be growing up so fast, but I feel like you have been 3 for a long time now. Maybe it's because you have a big (4 year old) brother that you have caught up to in soooo many ways, but because you are a wise soul who is very intuitive and observant...you hear everything we say and you remember and apply it later in ways that amaze us.

You are my favorite person to cuddle with and I adore you more than these words can say. You are beautiful inside and out and your tenacious personality will get you so far in life. I hope you know how unique and special you are to Daddy and I. Your sweet blue eyes and blonde ringlets give you a lot of attention my dear, but if they only knew your heart and your incredible understanding of this world, they would be even more in love.

God made you to be a leader and a generous spirit. You are always making sure Jackson is involved (good or bad) in all you do. You will have to help his sensitive heart navigate this crazy world, I'm sure he will follow you. Lead on my little warrior, lead on.

You are hilarious and you make me laugh with your comments, your looks, your smiles that mean a million different things, and your songs! You sometimes just start singing and I'll ask you what you are singing about to which you quickly and assertively reply, "Jesus songs mommy!"...He loves to hear those songs more than you know. I think what I will remember about this stage of your life more than anything else is the way your imaginary play with your "babies" (who are all named Madison or Austen)...you line them up and play "school" "doctor" and boss them around and tell them to "share" and "be good listeners!".

You would rather be at the "Mall!" than anywhere else...you are like me in not really enjoying the outdoor adventures that your brother is seeking. You like to play "shy" when you are definitely not. Ah, the emotional journey with you begins!

Just yesterday I caught you playing with all your stuffed animals lined up on the couch wearing my jewelry (which is a no-no) and taking their pictures individually with a View Finder. I asked you what was going on and you said, "It's picture day!"....I love your imagination Presley...may God use it for His glory.

You love going to school and are a leader and helper. You have your teachers hearts and attention on you, and you often aren't ready to leave when I come to get you. You love to learn, and will often tell me, "I'm learning" when you do something new. You think you already "know" how to do a lot of things which can be a little scary as you want me to let go of you much sooner than I'm ready to. Keep "learning" my little one. Life is an adventure and it can be indoors if you like.

Your "favorites"per an interview I conducted with you last week and what I already knew about you Reeny:

People: "Tracy, Jennica, Meghan...Daddy, Saxon (Jackson) and Mommy (phew)" this changes day to day so don't worry if you aren't on the list ;)
Shows: "BARNEY!" (please grow out of this one soon) and "Annie" (just like mommy when she was little!)
Food: ANYTHING, which I love since your brother is soooo picky. You will eat anything and I'm sure you will be my sushi buddy soon. You said, "spaghetti, salad, fruit, cupcakes"......anything, really.
Toys: Baby dolls (especially the "brown baby" at school), and paints, crayons, art
Places to go: "Daddy's work, ummmm Chicken Donalds (Mc Donalds), playgrounds, Caiden's house upstairs, ummm swimming" "I like to go to school with my Saxon"
What do you think about Jesus: "Jesus is at church"

What do you want to be when you get bigger? "I will be bigger" (okay we'll save that one for next year)

Favorite thing on the planet earth? I'll tell you this one, YOUR BLANKIE..still is the love of your life, well, second to Daddy.

I LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE YOU! A HUG A KISS!

Chuck E Cheese and Friends

2010-06-21T14:41:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Jackson's 4th birthday at Chuck E. Cheese with all of our family, family friends, and his friends from his class at Tutor Time. He had a blast and enjoyed welcoming each of his friends to his party table by taking each one by the hand as soon as he set his eyes on them. It was a fun celebration of a super fun boy!

"4 years old on my birthday!"

2010-06-19T23:06:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Jackson William David..

How in the world are you 4 years old already...4 years old means you are no longer a baby or a toddler...I guess you are a "pre-kindergartener"? A little boy? You will always be my firstborn, hence you will always be my baby boy. The last 4 years with you my son have been nothing but joy and wonder. You are the most tenderhearted soul and your wonder over God's earth and creation definitely makes me stop and praise the One who created it for you to enjoy! Thank you for being so loving to your friends, your family and even Presley Reeny! I'm sure you will continue to love God and love others as that is what you have been created for!

You love to make friends and you enjoy school and learning a lot. You love learning about letters and are constantly asking me about them. For example you say, "Mommy what letter does the word_____start with?" And when I tell you, you say "Oh yeah, that's right!" You are such an encouraging person already and compassionate. You tell me all the time how much you love me and how much you love Daddy and your "Cresley Reeny!"....her name starts with P by the way, not C!

You love your extended family and enjoy the time we spend with them. The world is your playground and everyone on it your best friend... you really live life to the fullest. You have really been growing spiritually as well, which brings more joy to my heart than anything else.

You seem to know a lot about God already and it makes total sense to your heart to tell everyone about Jesus. You tell me all the time that Jesus is in your heart and you are quick to pray when someone is sick or hurting. I wonder what God has for you my son.....it's going to change many lives.

I interviewed you the other night while we had some alone time at the kitchen table..here is what you said...

Favorite color: "Pink..this time it's pink, next is yellow."

Favorite ride at Disneyland: "All the rides. But I want to go on roller coaster"

Favorite animal: "kitty" (too bad you are allergic to them)

Favorite friend: "Riley and Elijah, Presley and Miss Debbie" (your friends from school, your sister and your teacher)

Favorite thing to play with mommy: "Trains" (no kidding!)

Favorite thing to play with daddy: "Trains" (who would have guessed?)

Favorite thing about Grandma: "She gives me presents, she's giving me a train for my birthday!" (see above)

Favorite TV shows: "Wubzy...Team Umizumi (starts singing theme song)..."

Tell me about Jesus: "Jesus has donuts. I love God. He takes care of us, He lives in your heart and he lives in the sky so He can build heaven for us. He's coming back on a rocket ship to take us all there, or a balloon..I don't know...I'm telling all my friends about Jesus..Miss Debbie has Jesus in her heart, like you mommy and daddy and Grandma"

Anything else?: "OH..I'm allergic to cheetos....and the moon is a crescent moon tonight!" (hilarious!)

Jackson, thank you for being so patient with us as we get to know who you are and how to love you and challenge you and discipline you so you can become the man that God needs you to be for this broken world. We are proud of you and so grateful to be your parents. You are my every heartbeat and I am truly celebrating your 4th year today! I love you....

Mommy

Oh and P.S. you are becoming all that a "little boy" is...including the gross things that girls don't really like and you think it's so stinkin' funny...for example.....

Just know..your sister is always watching you...oh dear...

...... 3, 2, 1, BLAST OFF!

2010-04-28T22:13:00.000-07:00

I LOVE the imagination of young children.

I especially LOVE Jackson's imagination and it's such a gift to watch his creativity and imagination grow as he grows.

He has really started using imaginary play in the last 6 months or so...he makes up stories as he plays with his trains...and now he's creating artwork that has stories to go along with it...for example...

The picture above is:

"Outer space. It's all the planets..Earf, Venus, Jupiter, Saturn and a meteor about to hit my rocket ship which is going faster and faster! "

He has us all quite convinced that he will be taking us all to outerspace...he just has to "get bigger like Daddy!" first!

Presley-isms....

2010-04-13T11:38:00.000-07:00

Presley "isms"

Hamburger=hangaburger
Spaghetti=Psgetti

If any food is too hot= "put it in the fridgerigdgerator"
All baby dolls in her posession=are named "Madison"
Things you will hear while she is playing school with all the"Madisons"= "line up friends!", "close your eyes, go to sleep" "snack time, wash your hands friends", "you (ju) no listening to me, you not a good listener!"

Teasing Jackson about everything="no Saxon, we not going to _____!"

Things she says to Mommy= "You are my friend Mommy!" "You not a good listener Mommy" "Five more minutes..."

People she mentions daily= "TRACY!", " I want my Daddy!"

Dad......

2010-04-13T11:24:00.000-07:00

Jackson had "storybook" character dress up day today at school and when I asked him who he was going to dress up as, he said, "Well, my Daddy is MY HERO!".......we all teared up a little at that point...but he ended up going to school as Thomas the Train....I guess for "hero" day he will dress up like Daddy!!! What a love......

Showing Jesus his new clothes....

2010-04-07T18:31:00.001-07:00

Easter morning Jackson left his church classroom in quite a hurry....he made his way through the crowded hallway full of the Easter crowd. I tried to get to him...but he made it quick, I guess it helps when you can squeeze into tight places. He made it to the sanctuary before I was done with a million "excuse mes" and "sorrys" as I bumped past the people already in line for the third service, with Presley and our bulky backpack in tow. Finally, after weaving in and out of the chairs and interrupting a nice lady talking to Pastor Todd, Jackson wrapped his arms around Todd's legs and after a good hug stepped back and said, "Jesus, look at my new Easter clothes!".....to which Pastor Todd gave Jackson a lot of praise for wearing such nice clothes. I told Pastor Todd that Jackson still thinks he is in fact "Jesus" to which Todd replied, "Spend 10 minutes with me and he would find out I am not!"....but for now, I am glad that Jackson has an adoration for a godly man and desired to show "Him" his new clothes for Easter...that is what Easter is a reminder of....The time of year that we put aside to remember and give glory to God for the miracle of the ressurection of Jesus and the promise it gives us. It is through Jesus we get to put off our old clothes (old lives full of sin and imperfection) and put on our new clothes (made clean through the sacrifice of God's perfect Son Jesus). It reminded me that we should always be rushing to get to Jesus...squeezing through the obstacles of life and the crowds of our day, with the innocence and excitement of a child.....and when we finally get to wrap our little arms around His legs and hug on Him, what an amazing, amazing moment it will be to say, "Jesus, look at my new clothes!" And He will really like them too!

I love the pictures of Christ we get to see through the innocence (at moments of course) of our kids.

These are......

2010-04-05T22:12:00.000-07:00

.........the moments and faces and bellies and sillyness and joys of my life!

Thank you Lord for our lives, and the moments you remind me of how much you love me.....

Easter Egging....

2010-04-04T22:02:00.000-07:00

Easter is one of my favorite holidays, because it represents the plan God had for me and those I love by giving us a way to know the full extent of God's love through the sacrifice of His Son and victory over sin and death in His Resurrection...EASTER!

The tattoo on my ankle is so that I will always remember.....
Galatians 2:20
I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

I also love Easter because we have a lot of fun at my mom's house spending time hunting for Easter eggs, and being silly, and enjoying the blessing of life.

Here are all 6 "grandkids"......These are some of my favorite people in the world (in case you ever wondered)....:)
Jennica (14), Presley (2.5) Kyle (11), Jackson (3.5), David (11), Kaylie (15)
Jennica is definitely one of Presley's favorite people in the world too...they are "twins" with their blue eyes and happy hearts!

Jackson was excited about his new Easter train Grandma gave him...give that boy a train and he's occupied for a good 2 hours.
Presley had such a great day playing with all her goodies and being with her cousins...she's the happiest around family, I love that!

We had a beautiful day outside swinging and sliding and of course EGG HUNTING. Grandma puts money in the eggs along with jelly beans....ALL of the kids had fun looking for the eggs, although Kyle and Jackson seemed to have the money radar!! Jackson's game face!Presley filled up her little basket and was so proud.Silly...so silly......and such joy!

Orphan "Annie"

2010-02-10T14:38:00.000-08:00

We decided to get a puppy...I know, I know..a puppy??? Yep. We wanted the kids to have the experience of a puppy and while we are still in our house that is not our "forever house"...why not? So meet Annie (who Presley named after the movie "Annie"). She's a Chocolate Lab/Border Collie Mix and she's really spunky......It's been an adjustment and the kids seem to really love her even though she jumps on them and tries to eat their toys, toes, and shoes. How could we resist that face?

Austen David

2010-01-25T14:40:00.000-08:00

We welcomed our new little "friend nephew" into our family in January. Little Austen David is so precious and he will help me get my "baby fix!" when I need one to hold and snuggle. Congrats Jenn, Derek, and Caiden...we love you!

Christmas 2009

2010-01-01T14:25:00.000-08:00

We had a great Christmas Eve and morning with Pat, Tracy, and the boys.....Jackson and Presley slept snugly in their sleeping bags together and waited for the morning to come. Jackson was first down the stairs and so excited to see if "Santa" had come! And yes, "he" did leave a lot of goodies for us all. I love having little ones to experience Christmas with. It sure is magical! After all the fun with Paul's family, we spent Christmas Day at our house for the first time. It was so great having all of our family over to celebrate and spoil eachother. We are so blessed to have so much family in our lives. My kids are constantly asking for, "the family!" and talking about and praying for people by name.

My favorite memories this Christmas:
1. Seeing the kids so excited over getting "underwear" and "umbrellas!"
2. Seeing Jackson finally get his "Thomas in the Tunnel" that he had asked Grandma for in October.
3. Seeing Presley enjoy her baby dolls and spin around in her pretty dress
4. Being together for Christmas with those we love was my favorite "GIFT!"

Getting in the Spirit!

2009-12-20T13:43:00.000-08:00

Getting into the holiday spirit with two toddlers has been very easy! I love watching them enjoy the season, try to sing carols, be amazed and thrilled by the decorations and lights! Jackson is counting down the days until Christmas....he's soooooo excited! Recently I picked up two little reindeer from school. Jackson was not happy about washing his red nose off. He told me, "Mommy Miss Debbie (his teacher) is going to be so mad at you if you take my red nose off!"

Trying to get the Christmas card picture was a fun night of matching jammies and two little toddlers who must have planned on not looking into the camera at the same time :). They are such little buddies most of the time!Presley loves to be silly...she won't wear these cute winter boots with pants, only without them.
My holiday party for work was at a really cool 20's club in downtown L.A. It was really fun to dress up and spend some time with my handsome husband and amazing friends who I happen to work with. I feel so blessed to have such beautiful (inside and out) women to share my days with.

We would have been cute in the 20's!

Happy Birthday Daddy!

2009-11-13T21:52:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Paul! Another year to celebrate who you are and how much you mean to me and our family. You are the happiness of our children, you are their first waking thought and their last waking thought of the day, you are their favorite person to play with, cuddle with, get tickled by and hug. You are the joy of their day when they know you will be home, and the sadness of their little hearts when you are not. You are their teacher, their encourager and their favorite shoulders to ride on. You are their unconditional love and they LOVE YOU! You are a father that every child deserves and needs and should have...and because of all of those things I am more in love with you than ever. HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU MY HANDSOME!

Memory Loss...

2009-11-01T19:39:00.000-08:00

I was just talking to my mom today about not being able to remember things about when the kiddos were babies (Presley's first year is kind of a blur..survival mode for sure!) So here are some things I don't want to forget about this even though it was not so blurry.

Presley saying "Daddy happy?" or "Daddy sad?" after everything she does...so important to her that he is happy!!! She thinks about him all day long.

Jackson learning to use the computer and playing the Playhouse Disney games on the computer all by himself.

The kiddos being so brave and enduring getting tubes and losing adenoids.

Jackson's teacher Miss Debbie and what a blessing she is to our lives.

Jackson's gratefulness..."Oh mommy THANK YOU!" about anything I do for him.

Jackson always wearing any pair of "new shoes" to bed.

Presley calling Halloween, "Happyween!"

You both love going to Target! Everything we need, buy, have, you both say, "You bought it at Target?!" You even play "going to Target" with the strollers and baby dolls.

You both point out all the landmarks on the way to school every morning. "Mommy there's your work!" "Mommy there is the fire station" "There is Presley's bus (the city bus)" "and Jackson bus (a school bus)"...so fun.Menus:

Jackson-chicken nuggets (from anywhere), fries, pizza, an occasional snack of chips, string cheese, graham crackers, and of course ORANGE JUICE BOXES!

Presley-macaroni and cheese (roni), noodles, vegetables (broccoli is a fav), fruit, cereal, snacks...you will try most things, JUICE and MILK.

Favorites:

Toys-

Jackson-Thomas the Train, Mc Queen toys, Buzz Light year toys, TRAINS, painting, the t-ball set, playing in our cars...if we buy you any new toy big or small you will play with it for hours and hours..and then of course it has to sleep with you that night.

Presley-Baby dolls...you put them to sleep, wake them up, take them in the little strollers, pat them, love them....books, painting, play dough, coloring, playing outside in the backyard, pretending to be a doctor..and of course #1 BLANKIE!!!!!

TV shows:

Jackson- Little Einsteins, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Cars, Toy Story, Bolt, Veggie Tales, Wow Wow Wubzy, Fox and the Hound 2 (which you call Clifford for some reason).

Presley- BARNEY (it's a sacrifice we all make for you), Tinkerbell (just the part with the baby which is about 5 seconds long)

I bought Jackson a Toy Story remote controlled car he's been asking for during our mall outing (mommy is a softy when you get two blood tests instead of one!) About an hour later he pulled it out of the bag, MARCHED back into the Disney Store and put it back on the shelf insistently saying "Mommy, it's not Christmas, we have to wait!"...My boy was trying to unspoil himself!!!

Jackson thinks our pastor Todd's name is Jesus

You both like to say prayers and you know that the real Jesus loves you!

Silly kisses

How you both smile for pictures and make me take pictures of you if you have new jammies, new haircuts, the sunset, the dogs...whatever is going on that I make a big deal, you both think we need to capture the moment! :) Me too!

Your love for your friends and family

Your empathy for others (both of you are beyond your years in this way, I love it!)

Missing you while I'm at work, but knowing how much fun you have at school

Presley being so hilarious and making me laugh really hard...she finds any opportunity to make us laugh.

I'll never forget how much Daddy and I love you both..GROUP HUGS!

October and Happyween!

2009-10-31T20:47:00.000-07:00

October was such a fun month, besides losing adenoids and gaining ear tubes...We had so much fun getting ready for Halloween or "Happyween" as Presley calls it. Jackson would ask me every single night as it was getting dark, "Is tonight Halloween?"..and finally it was! To get ready for the big night we decorated our door, visited the pumpkin patch with Caiden, carved pumpkins, picked out costumes (good thing I picked out two for Reeny!) and had a great time trick or treating with our family! I love this time of year and it's all just the beginning!

Daddy's girl!

2009-10-03T20:31:00.000-07:00

Although my Presley girl loves to "play Mommy" (here she is with her babies in a sling..which by the way she did not learn from me, but all my friends she saw being really good mommies!) She is a bonifed Daddy's girl! Paul and Presley are two peas in a pod in every way. Personality, independence, sillyness, their sweet compassion for others.....I love watching them interact, it's twice the fun!

She's loving Daddy letting her help "cut" the grass and he's loving the big long 20 minute HUG!

Play Ball!

2009-10-03T20:25:00.000-07:00

On Thursday nights this Summer and now this Fall we have had so much fun cheering on Paul at his church softball games. The Crossroads Community Church team is doing great this season and it is really fun to take the kids to go see Daddy play "baseball!" At first it was a little hard watching Daddy play without being able to "play" too, but now Jackson and Presley understand that we can't "touch" Daddy until after the game. It's always fun to hang out with our church family and the kids really enjoy cheering on their Dads and playing in the park!
Sader and Jackson being "bat boys"

There he is #44..."go Daddy!!!"

Presley loves the end of the game when she can finally sit with Daddy!

Giving Dad some tips after the game :)

Jackson likes to cheer for Daddy with his friends...although in this picture it looks a little painful.

We love our church family and are so blessed to get to know so many good men who love to play and pray together!

Caiden's Birthday

2009-10-02T20:36:00.000-07:00

It's so nice to celebrate our friends!!! We were so delighted to celebrate our little Caiden Thomas, who by the way is bethroed to Presley!!! It's so fun having friends with little ones, and it's been a blessing to watch everyone grow and change and become amazing little people! Happy Birthday sweet Caiden, we all love you, but Presley loves you the most!

SHE REALLY LOVES YOU!

More Birthday FUN!

2009-08-01T19:33:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures from the many celebrations of my little Presley girl. We had a fun birthday night with Mama, birthday cupcakes with her friends at school, and a little party with a few friends at our house, and a family celebration wtih Granny who shares the same birthday as little Reeny! She loved ALL of her celebrations and was so happy it was finally her day!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MY GIRL!!!!

2009-07-31T00:00:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY PRESLEY REENY! Oh my little princess, I can't believe you are 2....it seems like you have been 2 years old for a long time now. You have been talking, singing, teasing, flirting, playing and being your funny-funny self for what seems like a LONG time. You are our little princess, our tomboy, our sweet love, our tough girl, our teaser, and your personality is so much like Daddy. You are a tough little girl who still loves to wear pink and ponytails!

You love to tease Jackson, and you love to be silly. You give big hugs and kisses and you have your Daddy wrapped around your little finger. You are Jackson's baby sister and favorite friend, and you refuse to let him hold your hand when he asks you too. You love to make him frustrated with you.....but it's all in fun! (hmmm, like I said, just like Daddy!)

You have to know what Jackson is doing at all moments, he's your first thought in the morning and your last kiss before bed! I hope you two always stay close, it's amazing to watch you both laugh and learn together!

You are my favorite part of the morning. You wake up with a big smile and like to tease me that you are still sleeping.....you are my favorite part of my evenings as we pray together before you go to bed and you love to pray along and say "AMEN" and then, "Love you. Bye!" You know that Jesus loves you and you love to kiss Baby Jesus in the manger and play peek-a-boo with Him when you read our story book that has Him hiding behind that big grey rock! He loves to play with you too Presley!

You know everyone by name and you warm up to the people you know really quickly. People you don't know have to wait until you are ready to warm up to them....but once you do, you steal their hearts. You LOVE TO LAUGH and try to find ways to make yourself laugh and make other's laugh. You are stubborn and determined like Daddy and have my tenacity! You tease Mama and Uncle Brett the most and try to hit and bite us to make us cry and then it's your goal to make us "haaaappy!". You little bugger.....

You are gorgeous and you love to wear dresses and show them to Daddy....you love your "Dora" jammies....and you hate wearing shoes. You like going to school, especially because you get to do art and go on the playground, but it's hard to see Jackson on the other side of the fence. He tries to hold your hand through the gate and sometimes in those moments you let him.

You love to play outside and go swimming, although everything has to be on your terms....! You love your cousins and friends and you still have Caiden in your sights for a future husband. You scream "YAY!" when we pull into the school and church parking lots. You LOVE playing wtih your friends, baby-dolls, blankets, towels, pillows, climbing on the furniture and scaring us to death as you say, " I jump!" You love to dress up in clothes, hats, shoes......you'll even take shoes off of Mama's feet to wear them.

You say, "icka box" for juice box, and I don't know why because most of what you say is clear as a bell. You have conversations with us and they really make a lot of sense and really you are 2 going on 12! Oh dear.

You sing songs and love music and you have been singing "Happy Birthday to You!" for weeks now leading up to YOUR special day. You kept saying, "It's my birthday, it's coming...almost!" You've had plenty of practice singing it to your friends and family...you are the apple of so many eyes!

You still love your blankie (even after it's brutal dryer accident that left it quite mangled) and your cup and watching Barney! You still suck your little thumb and put your special corner of blankie in your ear when you are tired. You are still my little baby girl and always will be.

Happy Birthday Reeny!!! Mommy loves you and don't grow up too fast!

School Days!

2009-07-30T10:00:00.000-07:00

This summer I went back to work full-time which meant that Jackson and Presley had to go to preschool full-time. I was nervous for them and nervous for myself. Guess who didn't seem to mind at all....... Jackson and Presley have had a great summer at Tutor Time and have had so many fun summer days! I miss them so much, but I am comforted by the big smiles and stories that find me at the end of a long work day! I've been trying to capture some of the FUN!

Here they are all lotioned up for weekly "waterplay". They love to wear backpacks!

They made masks and had fun showing them to eachother afterschool. Jackson's was a little scary, and Presley was a cute mouse!

On "Hero Day" Jackson dressed up as a Fireman, and Presley a Doctor! They were super excited to show off mommy's last minute attempt at costumes. I said, "Jackson, you look so HOT!" and he said, "Oh no Mommy, I don't want to get burned up!"..funny. Presley liked imitating our pediatrician, Dr. Colby!
Facepainting day I was greeted by a Princess (go figure!) and a Ladybug??....hmmmm.....okay an ADORABLE Boy- Ladybug!!!!

Saturday fun #2

2009-07-30T09:50:00.000-07:00

We continued our quest for Saturday adventures by going to the beach for the first time. Kaylie came along for the fun! It was a beautiful day at the Ventura beach and I think Jackson would have stayed all day and night....he was enthralled by the big waves and endless sandbox. He made sandcastles with Kaylie and liked going to put his feet in the water. Presley, like Mommy, can only do the sand and surf for a couple of hours. She told me, "Mommy, time to go home, bye-bye beach!" I think the sand on her hands and fingers made it too hard to eat goldfish and grapes ...that may just be what pushed her over the edge! Toddlers and beach sand are challenging, but we will go back and do it again (thank goodness for baby powder!)

I am always reminded of God's greatness and majesty at the beach!

If you build it.....

2009-07-29T22:48:00.000-07:00

One morning while I was getting Presley dressed, Jackson decided to build his train track all by himself. He was yelling, "Mommy, come see, come see!" He was so proud that he did it all by himself!

Making money for Disneyland

2009-07-26T22:33:00.000-07:00

Jackson believes that when I go to work I am in his words, "Making money for Disneyland!"...yep, that seems to be the case because he loves going and Mommy loves taking him. We were blessed to go with Adler and Kari during their summer visit. It was SO fun taking our sweet and excited boys who had a "blast!!!" together. It was so crowded that they shut down the park, but that didn't stop us from having a wonderful day! I will keep working so we can go again soon!

Meeting Mickey!! So fun!

Tired boys at the end of the day...tired Mommies too!

A Special Saturday

2009-07-18T22:03:00.001-07:00

I started working full time again 3 weeks ago and I really miss Jackson and Presley. They are having the summertime fun of preschool at Tutor Time, but I am feeling like we are missing out on having many adventures of our own! I am going to try to plan fun things for us to do on Saturdays. Today, we went to the beautiful Santa Barbara Zoo and had a great time looking at animals, riding the "blue-train", and being out of the scorching heat of SCV. They also got to see the ocean for the first time which was fun....guess what next week's trip will be? (BEACH). I didn't get to take too many pictures because I was juggling two toddlers all by myself! We had a great first "special Saturday"! Stay tuned for more fun!

The house that Uncle built!

2009-07-17T22:30:00.000-07:00

Uncles (or Dunkles as Jackson calls them) are so important. I didn't grow up with my Uncles nearby, but I always have had a special place in my heart for my two Uncles who I would visit and who would visit me.

Being an Auntie myself I know how much I love my nieces and nephews...they make me proud, worried, happy, nervous, and I love them more than they know! I think I've always felt that same love from my Aunts and Uncles even though 3,000 miles separates us from them.

Family is a gift God has given us to make us be a part of legacies and to make us feel so special and loved.

Jackson and Presley are very blessed to have so much family around them. We spend a lot of time with my family and try to see Paul's family as much as we can too. Jackson and Presley are very LOVED and spoiled by all of their Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles, and cousins. I love watching them enjoy the special connections they have with their family......it is such a blessing to Paul and I and I am so thankful we have such great people for our kids to be loved by, learn from and laugh with.

Paul lost a special Uncle and his Grandmother in the same week this past June....it was really sad and I wish we could have taken Jackson and Presley to Nebraska to meet them before they passed. I can't wait to take them there sometime in the future to meet more of Paul's family.

My mom bought Jack and Presley a little playhouse for the backyard and since Daddy was away for the funeral of his Uncle John, we had to have Uncle Brett come to rescue and build the house! Jackson and Presley helped out and were so happy and appreciative for his help. Jackson still says, "Dunkle Brett built my house!" when he plays in it! Thank you to our family for loving my kids!

Jesus' artwork!

2009-07-12T10:26:00.000-07:00

Jackson and Presley love to learn and explore and observe.....we spend a lot of time outside and enjoy watching birds, seeing the moon (which Jackson worries is broken if it is not a full moon) and pointing out hills, mountains, parks, dogs, people, houses.....there is a lot of chatting going on in the Roth house with these two little toddlers. One night recently Jackson and I spent some time outside and watched the sunset. The summer sunsets are so gorgeous and this particular night the sky was really beautiful, clouds help! I said, "Look Jackson, God made a beautiful sunset for us tonight." He replied, "Mommy, Jesus painted the sky pink for us tonight. It's beautiful, I LOVE IT!"....I love my sweet, sensitive, and spiritual boy! I am sure Jesus did paint the sky pink that night just for us. He knew we would be looking! Jackson wanted me to take pictures of the sky and posed for mommy too. Two of God's most beautiful creations, the sky and my Jackson.......

Adler's Birthday!

2009-06-28T10:15:00.000-07:00

We were so excited to spend time this summer with our Altorfer friends from Illinois. We got to go to Disneyland, celebrate all the boy's birthdays, and Presley even found some romance! I am hoping to take Jackson on his first airplane trip to visit Adler sometime this Spring!!! I miss them so much when they leave!

Jackson's Birthday Party!

2009-06-21T10:23:00.000-07:00

Here are the pictures from Jackson's Birthday Party. He couldn't wait for the day to come! 3! "my birthday, my birthday party, my birthday cupcakes (allergy free of course), is it MY birthday?!? It's my party, my party! all my friends are here for my party!"Oh my, Jackson could not wait for the big day to come........he loved having all his friends and family to celebrate his big day.....3! Finally 3!

His birthday morning he got to open up his new train set with his happy sister hopeful to play too!

Happy 3rd Birthday Jackson William David

2009-06-18T21:14:00.000-07:00

Oh dear. How in the world are you 3 years old my sweet boy? It just seems like yesterday that I held you for the first time....middle of the night, exhausted, scared, and then came this sweet bundle, sound asleep in my arms. It was just you and me alone in that hospital room and it was the most profound and important and miraculous moment of my entire life. NOW here you are, my buddy, my son, my laughter, my frustrations, my silliness, my joy, my wonder.....I love you so much Jackson and everyday is such a gift with you and Presley in our lives.

You are changing and growing so much. You would say it's because you eat your, "chicken donalds"...and your dad and I are amazed at how you do grow with how little you eat sometimes.

You think everyone you meet or see is your "friend" and you love to play with the neighborhood kids twice your age. You love to ride your little Mater "brown car" all around the block and being outside is your favorite place in the world. The other day at Disneyland you said, "OH all my friends are here for my birthday?!?" You think everyone is your friend. That is a good perspective. Be a good friend and you'll have many!

You are quite a little gentleman and you like to open and hold the door for people. You say please and "no thank you" and "thank you"...the "no thank you" is your way of saying "NO!" these days, but I'll gladly listen to your sweet little attempt to get out of things you don't want to do.

You still call lemonade "leganade" and you call binoculars "binacalickers." You have a lot of charm and come up with funny thoughts and words all the time. You love life and experiencing it at it's fullest. That's God's plan for you!

You love to cuddle, hold my hand, give us all kisses and hugs. You have a sweet heart and spirit. You LOVE people and that is so important since God calls us to love people and love Him.

You still love Little Einsteins, Thomas the Train, (any train), building trains, and Lightning McQueen. You love going to Disneyland and I love taking you!

You know your friends by names now and you mention them and tell me stories about them. I love your perspective on things and life and the wonders of the world like the sun, the moon, the rocket ships (the little lines airplanes leave in the sky). You inform me of the weather, different cars, directions to places we go, and where people are (Daddy's at work getting the money, Mama's at home in her blue house with the doggies, David is sleeping, Jennica's at school)....

You love your cousins and your family and get SOOOOOOOO excited when they are around. You love your Mama (Grandma) and you love to talk to her and Granny on the phone. You love to call Daddy every night when he is at work.

You LOVE your Daddy and you love to help him do anything and everything. Cut the lawn, "fix" things, wash the cars, go to the park, go for a walk, play T-ball, play catch, do races in the backyard, swim, play, play, play.......I love watching you two love each other!

You love Presley Reeny and sometimes even call her by that nickname. You hug her, kiss her, fight with her, play with her and watch out for her already. You are becoming buddies and it's amazing to watch you grow together and enjoy the same things. This morning you said, "Good Morning Daddy, hi Presley I love you!"

You like school and have learned so much. You know your letters, their sounds, your colors, your numbers, big and little, ect. ect...you are so smart and I am so proud of you for being so excited to learn so many things. You do gymnastics and we did music class which you liked a lot. You love music and instruments. You like to see the guitars at church after every service.

You love your dogs and have renamed Sonny. You now call him "Bolt". You are good with animals and you really like to watch birds, dogs, cats and have an interest in all animals.

You were really looking forward to your birthday. For a few months you would ask me for your birthday. We love celebrating you and have had so much joy watching you enjoy your birthday party and the other ways we celebrated YOU!

I could go on and on about you because you fill our lives with so much! We love you Jackson. Enjoy your new preschool class like you told me today, "I have a new class because I am three!" YOU ARE THREE! HAPPY BIRTHDAY JACKSON, it's finally here. We are excited for this new year with you!

Silly Faces

2009-06-06T10:07:00.000-07:00

Jackson has been practicing his silly faces that he learns on Yo Gabba Gabba! He told me, "Mommy get your camera!".....the backyard can be a lot of fun these beautiful early summer evenings! Even the dogs get some love!

Sippy Cup Dangers....

2009-06-06T10:05:00.000-07:00

....warning...empty sippy cups being swung around for a refill can cause serious damage to the Daddy!Poor Paul.......quite a shiner from Jackson's swing. Maybe we should get the recruiter from the Dodgers on the line!

Working at the "Car Wash"

2009-06-06T09:59:00.001-07:00

Jackson loves to help Daddy wash the cars. He does a pretty good job too and manages to stay dry for the most part. He is loving learning all the things Daddy does and for now it's "free labor" right? He takes his "chores" very seriously and has a lot of pride knowing he's a helper! Now if he could only do the laundry, Mommy would be very happy! All the hard work makes for a very tired boy!

Rosie, Posie, ALL Fall Down!

2009-06-01T10:01:00.000-07:00

Presley is obsessed with playing "Ring Around the Rosie". She recruits whoever is nearby and loves the thrill of singing, spinning and falling down. She often sings the song which gets stuck in her little cute curly head!

She loves singing and music so much, which makes Mommy happy. She loves to dress up and surpises us with her outfits. She tries to carry so much at one time around the house...hmmm...wonder if she gets that from watching me trying to bring everything in from the car all in one trip?!? She's hilarious! We'll have to get her a karaoke machine soon and she can dress up and entertain us even more! She and Jackson are still enjoying eachother's company, most of the time, and when they have to part I often hear, " Bye Presley, I love you!" followed by, "Bye Jackson, I love you!" I do love that they love eachother......it's really something I've prayed for all along. Presley is the tease....she often runs off with his toys and makes him chase her. Funny! Oh dear, oh dear..just wait until they are arguing over who gets the car for the night.....Hopefully they will always be friends and continue to grow to love eachother more and more!

E.T. Party!!!

2009-05-29T10:08:00.000-07:00

My nephew David has had an E.T. phobia for many many of his young years. It is often the topic of our conversations when we are together and he has had to put up with a lot of teasing over the years. He truly had nightmares and fears about the "puppet" that we promised was fake, nice, happy, and something like a big giant teddy bear with no hair. He promised me that when he turned 10 years old he would watch it with me, but that birthday came and went and he still wasn't ready....so how did the big event come to be? The promise of a cell phone from his dad! My brother told him he could get a cell phone ONLY if he watched E.T. That did it! Everyone congregated together in our living room and we did the unthinkable! We watched E.T. About 5 minutes into it David was begging us to turn it off, but HE DID IT! He made it through the whole movie, he liked it, laughed, got worried, enjoyed the boys riding/flying on the bikes......at the end we celebrated his accomplishment with pizza! He did however have some trouble sleeping for a few days following our party and says he'll never, ever, ever, watch it again! (maybe he's waiting for another incentive, smart boy!)

Before......

After......

Pirate Treasure

2009-05-09T21:36:00.000-07:00

My little pirate got to pick this eye-patch out of the treasure chest at preschool because.....

HE'S POTTY TRAINED....

I have been dreading the potty training issue for months and was really worried it would take awhile or be similar to the battle that occured when we switched to the big boy bed...To my surprise it took 2 days and he acted like it was no big deal and actually seems to love the transition. It ended up being such a fun few days for us and a great time of celebration. He's so proud of himself and everyone is so kind to make such a big deal out of our really big deal! He tells us when he has to go and he has had accident free days at school! He'll be moving up to the 3 year old class in a few weeks! The big playground, a new teacher, new friends.....he'll handle it all like a brave pirate would do!

A Sunday Camping Trip...

2009-05-09T21:00:00.000-07:00

.....in the front yard :). Paul set up our big camping tent in the front yard and we had a full day outside pretending to be at a remote campsite. We brought in our sleeping bags, ate some snacks and found that camping in the front yard could possibly be just as fun as camping anywhere else. I am not a huge camping fan so this type of "camping" may just very well be my favorite. There were only your average front yard bugs, running water, toilets and the comforts of home just a few feet away the whole time. Presley and Jackson spent most of the time pretending to sleep, laughing, chasing each other and playing peek-a-boo from inside and outside of the tent. Another great idea from Daddy...he's is really, really fun!

I had to go to a church function in the early evening, and when I returned later that night they were still inside the tent stargazing!!! So fun! I definitely look forward to our next "camping" trip, maybe we'll even spend the night!

A day at the FARM

2009-05-09T12:41:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago we spent a very special Sunday afternoon at Uncle Dan and Auntie Debbie's ranch in Yucaipa. Jackson and Preseley were so excited about going to a real "farm!" They were both able to meet the horses. Jackson rode the horses and proudly acted like he does it all the time. He was thrilled to drive a "tractor" and of course Daddy took the opportunity to work on turing to the "right" and "left" He also got to feed and interact with the goats, the big pig and the cats and dogs on the ranch. He was outside all day long with Daddy ( who had a lot of fun watching Jackson enjoy the day!), his Uncles and Grandpa. He was in heaven, and is so great and gentle with animals. Sometimes we wonder if he'll be the next "Dog Whisperer."

My little "city girl" Presley, on the other hand was happy to be inside with Mommy, her babydolls, and her cousins. She's so much like me in that sense. I think it's fun to be outside for a little while, but much more fun to chat and visit with the family. She is so easy going and sociable. I spent about an hour down at the horses with Jackson and she was content to be up at the house playing and charming her family.

Jackson is ready to visit the farm again soon!

P.S.

2009-05-07T14:43:00.000-07:00

I started a new blog that is all about Jackson's journey with his allergies......

Here is the link...

www.journeyforjack.blogspot.com

Easter Egg hunt #3 (finally Easter Sunday)

2009-04-15T21:33:00.001-07:00

By the time Easter Sunday actually arrived, Jackson and Presley were experts at hunting eggs. They enjoyed the hunt Grandma V and Auntie Jackie put on, and Jackson made out with $11.00! Presley, again, excited about the CANDY was happy to hunt and had a great time opening the eggs!

It was fun to dress the kids up in their Easter outfits, although they love to dress up a lot these days. Jackson insists on wearing, "button shirts" because they look like Daddy, and Presley loves to wear dresses and look "pretty" (okay I admit it, I like putting her in dresses a lot too!)

We had a fun day playing with David, Jennica, Kyle, Auntie Sheri, Grandma V,Uncle Brett, Auntie Jackie and their new dog Cookie. Jackson and Cookie chased eachother all day long! What a great day to celebrate the life we have in Christ!

Easter Egg Hunt #2

2009-04-11T21:08:00.000-07:00

Auntie Jenn and Uncle Derek hosted a private Easter egg hunt for our kids the day before Easter. It was really fun seeing our kids hunt together and Presley definitely knew what to do...afterall, she had one hunt under her belt already, and there was CANDY and GOLDFISH CRACKERS in those eggs. They were just so adorable, hence the abundance of pictures in this post!

A lot of growing up is going on...

2009-04-08T20:52:00.000-07:00

And when I say "UP" I mean it literally...most of my nieces and nephews are taller than me and some are even taller than Paul!!! Including Tyler who will be starting HIGHSCHOOL next fall....I know people say that kids grow up fast, but it seems like it's taking awhile with my little two while my nieces and nephews are becoming young adults in the blink of our eyes we are so proud of all of them (all 11 of them and 1 great niece as well).Presley is growing up fast and already has a boyfriend that she has a nickname for!! Caiden (CeeCee) is the apple of her eye and she asks for him daily! They are precious together and I hope they really do marry eachother because we would really love to have Jenn and Derek to fight over holidays with!

Jackson outgrew his ride on toys and tricycle so he got a new big boy bike...the only problem was that Presley was really envious and the next day she also got a big girl bike too! Family is so important to us and it's so fun to have my nieces and nephews be such important people to Presley and Jackson. They love seeing their cousins and are very spoiled by all of their aunties, uncles and cousins. Auntie Jackie and Uncle Brett brought over Easter baskets and it set the tone for a very fun day hanging out with the family.

Easter Egg Hunt #1

2009-04-03T20:44:00.000-07:00

We have had a lot of egg hunting this Easter season. It started with the annual hunt that my brother puts on for the YMCA. Jackson was very excited and understood the concept a lot better this year...Presley had a good time too, but was a little overwhelmed by the commotion..until she realized there was CANDY in those eggs....yippee! David and Jennica helped wrangle the little ones and we had a great morning meeting the Easter Bunny and collecting eggs. We saw some familiar faces too, which is always fun!

Being a good sport!

2009-03-23T20:39:00.000-07:00

Jackson has had a cough on and off for months and with all these beautiful blooming flowers accompanied by strong winds, I am sure it's allergy related. We are hoping it's not going to lead to ashtma, but his pediatrician, Dr. Colby (Dr. Tolby as Jackson calls her) had us get a nebulizer which really helps on the days we can't get his coughing under control. He's a pretty good sport when he has to do it. We usually put on Little Einsteins and we watch the episode where they go to give Saturn back a ring....he thinks he's putting on his rocket ship mask to help them.

Like Father Like Son!

2009-03-12T15:43:00.000-07:00

Jackson is our little "helper". He loves to "help"..help sweep, take out the trash, feed the dogs....and now he has figured out a way to "help" Daddy mow the lawn. The other day as Paul was doing the lawn Jackson came up with his own version of helping. Stroller mowing!! I looked out the window and saw this......I loved watching the serious look on his face and his went up and down the little hill and followed right behind his Dad.

Rain or Shine!

2009-03-01T21:05:00.000-08:00

This winter has brought some crazy weather.....rainy days, very rainy days, and sunny days, and almost summer-like days. We've had to be creative in keeping Jackson and Presley busy no matter what the weather forecast!

When it's rainy we stay inside, do arts and crafts, watch movies, cuddle with the dogs. It's hard to be inside all day long, but we try to stay busy. I try to pull out toys we haven't played with for awhile and that's always exciting on a rainy day. I love rainy days and it's always a nice break to stay inside.....just as long as I can keep everyone occupied!

When it's sunny we spend most of our time outside, in our front and backyard, or in those rare occasions, at the park (it's hard to keep an eye on two young toddlers by myself)! We love to blow bubbles, play with the dogs and go on walks. We even made an attempt to spend the day at the zoo, but it was so crowded due to the great weather, that we only stayed a little while and then came home and blew bubbles instead. We love playing with Caiden, although we've all been so sick (most likely from the flip flopping weather and crazy bugs going around!) that we have to cherish our time when we are all well!

Jackson's date with Mommy!

2009-02-15T12:49:00.000-08:00

Jackson and I went on our first "date" to his Valentine's Day party at his preschool. It was a great "date" with my sweet boy who enjoyed giving his friends their cards, making a craft with Mommy and playing and singing with his class. It was so fun to see how much joy is in his classroom. His teachers are so great, and we are so thankful for the Tutor Time staff who really care for Jackson and try to help with his "food needs"!

Presley's got style!

2009-02-10T21:22:00.000-08:00

Presley got her first haircut last week and now has "style"...well cute little bangs and a more even all around cut. My little blondie was a trooper and was very quiet and observant during our visit to Gumball Alley. Jackson got his haircut too, and well, he was loud, silly and squirmy. In the end they both were as cute as ever and enjoyed balloons and lollipops for good behavior.

I am realizing how much Presley is like her dad. They share the same personality and sense of humor. They "get" eachother in special ways, and even at 18 months old, she has a partner in "silly crimes" and is very, very in LOVE with her daddy. She's also found a friend in her older brother, when she is not taunting him....they really do enjoy playing together and copying eachother. They have a lot of fun and it's so fun to see their relationship forming although I thought Jackson would be the teaser....nope, just like Paul, Presley loves to tease!!!
Jackson is really "growing up" these days and he will tell you he is getting "bigger, I EAT, I go to rocket ship to the moon in space when I big like daddy!" I guess orange juice, chicken nuggets and an occasional pretzel, piece of toast, and veggie chips is a very growth stimulating diet??? He's still loving preschool, Little Einsteins, TRAINS, church (because they have trains), running races outside with dad, walking the dogs....he also seems to love to learn which is exciting. He is all about pointing out "letters" (words), stop signs, shouting out directions when we drive, counting things (which most of the time it's "3" no matter what!), and amazing me with his incredible memory. I like this age a lot, and soon, oh soon, we will do potty training.

Things to Remember!

2009-01-08T14:54:00.000-08:00

There are so many things I want to remember about this time in our lives. Yes it's crazy, tiring, fun, CRAZY and busy....but my little ones are growing up so fast!!! I have to stop to remember before my sleep deprived mind forgets!

Presley calls Jackson "Mommy"....She used to call him Jackson and she knows everyone else by name, but for some reason we are both "Mommy!"

Jackson says "yemondae" for lemonade (of course Presley says LEMONADE)..it's amazing how girls pick up language so quickly. And he says "chicken french fries" for McDonalds! It's about the only thing he eats eagerly. (of course)

Presley carries around her blankie and sucks her thumb while rubbing her blankie in her ear....sometimes she'll rub it in my ear......she tilts her head and smiles, she's got the girly behaviors already!

Every ball is a "soccer ball" hmmm I wonder why?

They really do hug and kiss eachother....and love our group hugs!

Presley says, "Daddy where you go (with her little hands turned out) followed by....."Daddy at werk!" (work) She misses him a lot these days. I can see the special bond little girls have with their daddys. I love it!

Jackson LOVES church and asks to go there daily.....because there is a huge Thomas the Train set in the nursery! He asks to go to the mall, the store, school, friends?, Mama's house, and church everyday. He has hopes that we are going somewhere.......he's a social butterfly. Presley takes a little time to warm up.

Presley loves to dance and when she hears music she shakes her little booty! They both love to try to sing songs and their favorite right now is "Happy Birthday to you...YEA!"

Presley says, "mmmmmmmmmwwwaaaa" when she kisses you.

Jackson says ,"you go to Dr. Toby?" (which means Dr. Colby, his pediatrician) with a sad concerned face every time someone gets hurt or mentions being sick.

Did I mention his obsession with THOMAS THE TRAIN? His favorite Christmas present was his Thomas the Train shoes!!! He sleeps with trains and likes us to play trains with him. Presley plays sometimes too!

Presley speaks in sentences at 17 months old. "All done Mommy" and "Where'd it go?" "Bye bye Mama (to my mom)" and she's quick to answer questions I never would imagine she understands.

Jackson knows most numbers, letters, and colors by sight and is quick to point them out to me on street signs and billboards, "Look Mommy letters....numbers....." He had also memorized every house's decorations (ie..mickey mouse, reindeer, trains) on every route we take routinely. He loves to point out decorations and tell me which way to go.

Jackson comes in our room in the morning and pulls the covers off of me and says, "Mommy wake up, wake up mommy!"

Jackson tells me, "Mommy I go on a ROCKET SHIP to the moon, I get bigger, I go rocket ship faster!" and then stands on his tippy toes to get bigger! He might just do that!

Presley gives the best hugs and kisses...especially to Daddy! She'll just walk over and hug him.

She LOVES to eat and then asks for more!

Jackson has a compassionate heart and says, "Mommy you okay?" "Mommy, happy?!?" and then sticks out his tounge to make me laugh. Sometimes I am not happy (as he pushes Presley down or throws his toys)...but it's hard not to smile with his little grin staring back at me.

Jackson loves to be outside and run and do "races" and play "red light green light" Daddy is his favorite friend and they are so alike. Jackson loves to be a "helper" with taking out the trash and sweeping. He jumps at the chance to help. Sounds like Daddy to me!

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-26T14:43:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas. Oh my what a fun season it has been watching Jackson and Presley experience the vast excitement of Christmas. The lights, trees, Santa, music, excitement, wrapping gifts and spending time with family has made our little ones so excited! Jackson calls the presents, "wishes"....I don't know where he heard that, but maybe since he watches the Polar Express (or "daddy train!" as he calls it) about 3 times a day, it's possible he picked it up from that movie. He loves, loves, loves the lights and Presley really has enjoyed the decorations around our house. He loved handing people their presents and saying, "Here's your wish!"

They both love to turn on the many muscial decorations we have and dance and smile! Presley learned quickly how to turn each one on!

On Christmas Eve Jackson was excited to open gifts and spend time with our family at Pat and Tracy's house. Presley had a blast showing her family what a big girl she is...and her new walking skills....! It's always fun to celebrate Aunt Debbie's Christmas birthday!Jackson was so excited that he woke up at 3 a.m. and insisted that he and I go downstairs and play. He was going to wake everyone in the house, again, so very reluctantly I gave in. Eventually we both fell asleep under the tree.....ah, cute, yes...but tiring for Mommy. He literally fell asleep playing with his new Handy Manny truck.Presley loved getting accessories for her little baby dolls. She loves tucking them in, pushing them in the stroller, giving them bottles and "food"....she is so ahead of herself in so many ways.

Paul and I spoiled eachother with very thoughtful and special presents, including this Dolphin's helmet which Presley wore proudly!
Presley got a tea set from Brett and Jackie and knew exactly what to do as she and Jennica played tea...she knew it was hot and she knew to stir the tea...such a smartie! A dollhouse was a treat from Grandma V. How are my little ones so grown up so fast?

I wish I had more pictures from the time we spent at my mom's on Christmas Day, but we were so tired by that point that the camera didn't get much action. Also my brother had brought some amazing old videos of my Dad and his family when he was young and throughout their lives...pretty amazing. Paul also got to see a video of me singing "Tomorrow" from Annie......funny. It was a great holiday!

We had a great time with both of our families and watching Jackson and Presley open gifts with such joy and excitement made the holiday even better! They both have so much fun with all of their cousins even though they are all at least a decade older them. It's great seeing the relationships they are building.

At the end of Christmas Day they both started singing "Happy Birthday"....it was great! Maybe in their little heart of hearts they understood the real meaning of Christmas.

Update:

Of course the time came to take down the lights and put away the tree...Jackson sadly helped Daddy pack everything up and on his own his explanations included, "Christmas went home!" and "Christmas is all done." Even now, as it's been a few weeks he is still telling me, "Mommy, Christmas went home? Yeah...Christmas went home Mommy." He still says "Merry Christmas" when he says goodbye to his teachers, friends and family...it's three weeks later... I promised him that Christmas will come back! Oh and yes, how quickly it will!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-28T14:20:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving! Look at how cute my brother's family is.....we are so thankful for them. Yes, I was at this celebration, but behind the lense! Paul had to work....booo....Black Angus is open on Thanksgiving! I had a great day and here are some fun pics. There are more of my deep thoughts on this holiday below!

David taught Jackson how to rake leaves...only to jump in them of course.
Presley loved the meal...of course. Jackson didn't eat anything, way too peculiar for him (we had stopped at McDonalds on the way up!)
Grandma V and Jennica we're beaming with Thanksgiving Day smiles!
This is Jackie's sister and her family.....such nice people to share the holiday with. And below them, our lovely hosts Jack and Jane. So sweet to have us all there at their nice home!My precious little Presley, not too sure of the leaves at first...she was thinking, "Oh no, I do not touch leaves and dirt mommy! "
Jackson had the time of his life in the leaves!

Jennica entertained Jackson outside all afternoon!

My sweet babies...growing up so fast!
Thankful! Yes! So much to be thankful for......family, friends, health, our home, our new church, God's endless mercy and grace! So much, so much! God has blessed and sustained us in ways we could have never imagined this year. He's so faithful and has made our lives so rich, joyous, challenging, comical, and completely dependent on Him! And still, "Our best days are ahead of us!" Last week at church our pastor reminded us that indeed, our best days are ahead of us as we have the hope and promise of HEAVEN! By His grace and mercy He gives us so many "best" days here on earth...for me, our wedding day was the best day of my life, and of course Jackson and Presley's birthdays followed up the gift of our marriage.....so what if those are the best days I'll have on this earth?....they very well could be.....BUT they will be overshadowed by the day we all stand on streets of gold and are made whole and complete surrounded by the worship and presence of God! I would like to have about 70 X365 more days here on earth...and then the BEST will await me! I'm so thankful that God cares about my days here on earth......like the wonderful Thanksgiving Day we had with my brother and his wife's family. What a beautiful meal, home, backyard and family!!!

A big boy bed!

2008-11-22T14:08:00.000-08:00

Because of Jackson's broken collarbone and the fact that I saw him almost flip over the rail of his crib the next day due to his great gymnastic skills, Paul and I decided it was time for a big boy bed. I have been dreading the transition and was hoping to leave that along with potty training for after the holidays......but the time has come. Jackson enjoyed his last nap in his crib.....and helping daddy clean up David's old twin bed frame. He's actually doing great with sleeping in the bed all night.....but naps have definitely become a battle. He looks so tiny underneath his "Cars" bedding and using a pillow for the first time. So I guess we'll leave potty training for after the holidays.....I can only take him growing up so fast a little at a time!

And the award goes to....Jackson! Unfortunately!

2008-11-18T13:53:00.000-08:00

Jackson was playing "night night, wake up" (jump up, go to sleep, jump some more, roll around) on our bed with Paul and David and got so excited that he fell right off before they could catch him. He has the offical first broken bone of all my friends' kids (an award I regretfully received from Auntie Tina). His left collarbone is a little bent and fortunately not completely fractured. He has to wear a little figure 8 brace for 3 weeks and I thought that with my active and opinionated 2 1/2 year old that it would never happen...... However, Jackson gladly wears it everyday! Sometimes God gives me little phrases just in the nick of time to convince my kids to do things they might not want to...for the brace it was, "What a cool backpack!"...so he now thinks it's his backpack and it is very cool! The biggest bummer was knowing he couldn't do his gymnastics class for awhile. Every Tuesday he does very fun tumbling and climbing on a gutted out bus at school with a great program called Tumblebees. Very fun, very Jackson! So, once again I was terrified that he would be crushed as he saw the bus and his coach at school the next day. Another phrase popped into my mind, "OH NO...the bus is broken!"....it worked! He tells everyone he sees that "the bus is broken" and added the phrase himself, "but daddy will fix it!!!"....sure, daddy will fix in about 4 weeks :). My little champ, you would never know that in fact, he's broken, and the bus is just fine!

Happy Birthday Daddy!

2008-11-13T20:41:00.000-08:00

It's Paul's (and Pat's) birthday today...I love getting to celebrate my great husband because he's just that....GREAT! ......

Handsome,

Happy Birthday. Just like a fine wine, you definitely are getting better and better with age! You constantly remind me of why I fell in love with you. You love God, you love others, you love me and our two beautiful children. You are the hardest worker I know and that applies to every area of your life. You make us laugh and giggle and you think of things with the kids to humor them at any chance you get! I love it! You take care of us and I hope you know how much I appreciate all you do, from working endless hours at Black Angus and coaching the Soccer Shots kids, to doing dishes, laundry, working on the yard, fixing the house and the things I break.....you are so strong and loyal for us....THANK YOU! I celebrate YOU today and thank God that He gave you to me and the kids! I love you!

A Ketchup Party!

2008-11-01T21:35:00.000-07:00

For a few weeks Jackson's food of choice was ketchup...(chechup). Seriously, that is all he would ask for. He would either scoop it up with a spoon while saying, "mmmmmmm" or would dip his hands in it. (yuck). Presley caught on, although she still ate other foods, and one afternoon they had a "ketchup party"! (yuck again!) The party happened again at dinner.......

Halloween Fun!

2008-10-31T21:15:00.000-07:00

"Cumpkins, Ghosts! BOO!" has been Jackson's saying for the last 3 weeks or so. He has loved all the houses dressed up for Halloween....! Everyday when we leave the house he says, "Bye Cumpkins, bye ghosts, love you!"......I wonder if we will be able to take the decorations down with out a huge loss in my little boys life.Halloween day was fun, and Daddy was home (even more fun!). We went to Jackson's preschool for a parade, cookies, and juice. Jackson eagerly put on his Buzz Lightyear costume and had a good time at school, although he seemed equally happy and confused. He loved the parade and the treasure chest and playing with his friends, but he seemed so baffled by what was happening at school that day. He cried all they way home..."school, Miss Debbie, school".........I think he was very confused by the fact that we stayed at school with him, his friends were dressed in "unusual" clothing, and then we left before his normal routines that he loves! Once home, he cheered up and was thrilled to see our own carved pumpkins appear on the doorstep after naptime!

Around dusk he again put on his costume....but not soon after Grandma V (my mom) came over dressed up in her annual pumpkin costume. The moment he saw her he started frantically ripping off his costume and insisted he wear the "CUMPKIN!".....my mom graciously took her costume off, we had a big laugh as we pinned the adult sized costume to fit his little body and off we went to trick or treat in the "CUMPKIN!!!!" He had a blast going door to door and kept saying, "more doors!" He loved saying "trick of treat"..and "happy halloween!". He was a cute little pumpkin! I should have thought to get him a pumpkin costume, as he has been so in love with them since they appeared for the holiday! Next year I will pay closer attention.Presley started off the day as a flower, a beautiful one at that! She wasn't too happy in her costume, so by evening I let her wear her Halloween jammies and I put on some freckles and a funky ponytail to "costume" my little girl. She had fun as daddy carried her around and has loved sorting, eating and re-enacting the trick or treating......! So sweet!

I can't imagine how much they are going to enjoy Christmas.........Jackson has no idea what is in store. Imagine the wonder at the decorations that will soon pop-up in his little world! I can't wait!

The "Cumpkin Patch"

2008-10-18T21:01:00.000-07:00

Auntie Kari, Adler and little baby Weston came to California for a visit! We had been looking forward to seeing them and meeting Weston for a long time! We took the boys and Grandma "V" to Lombardi Ranch to see the cumpkins (pumpkins), ride the train and have some fun! All of the kids had a blast and the boys were boys! Running through pumpkins, hiding in the giant pumpkin statue, and riding the train were the big hits of the day. We even saw a real live cow. Jackson just kept saying, "mmooooooooo" :) Presley had a blast and enjoyed getting loved-on by Grandma! She is enjoying the season, ALMOST, as much as Jackson! I wish Kari and her boys lived here in California! We have so much fun when they visit and we miss them so much when they leave!

Buzz Lightyear appeared in our house tonight!

2008-10-15T21:47:00.000-07:00

Jackson tried on his Buzz Lightyear costume a few weeks before Halloween......he didn't want to take it off, but I finally convinced him that it was "dirty" and we had to clean it. He is starting to love to dress up...so fun!

"Goodnight Moon"

2008-09-19T19:22:00.000-07:00

Tonight is one of those nights when the crazyness of being a parent is all worth it. Our bedtime ritual is as follows:

7p.m. do the dishes

7:05 clean up toys

7:07 read books

7:30 finish off with the book, "Goodnight Moon"

The end of the book is Jackson's clue that he is going to bed. He closes it up and says, "night-night" and off we go to change his diaper, say prayers and then go to bed. Tonight everything was exactly as mentioned above, EXCEPT that right before I layed him down he layed a big kiss on me and said, "Luv U"...(love you!)....I could melt! He's just the sweetest little boy and has recently grow up with leaps and bounds!!!! His compassionate heart is evident as I have heard him asking Presley, "What happened?" and "what's wrong...u crying..." when she is hurt or angry. I love seeing the little young boy he is becoming. It's all worth it!!!

Goodnight Jackson! I "luv u too!"