Donnie and Loraine's Family

We know... it's been awhile.

2009-08-01T18:23:00.000-07:00

We've had an Amazing, Busy, Chlorine Filled, Terrific, Summer.

{wish it wasn't over}

catch up soon....

Boys Day Out

2009-05-02T14:15:00.000-07:00

Today Donnie and Nate attended the Lucas Oil Off Road Races. It was the ultimate Guy Day, complete with Ice Cream, Monster Trucks, Dust, Dirt, and a very happy Father and Son.

When they returned home, the boys were really excited to share their pictures with us. While showing them to Gracie, Donnie said, "Maybe next time sweetie you'll come with us."

Gracie replied, "No WAY, not EVER, I am NOT going There!!!"

That's my GIRL.

Happy May Day!!!

2009-05-01T16:11:00.001-07:00

To you.

on this day, two years ago...

2009-04-29T21:24:00.001-07:00

Why...

Why do they have to grow us so darn fast?

biking and boating

2009-04-26T21:21:00.001-07:00

A perfect Sunday.

Garage Selling with Gracie

2009-04-25T11:05:00.001-07:00

Gracie Mae scored the Deals of the Century at our community garage sale. Armed with only $4.00 she set out with me on her very first garage sale adventure.

First deal of the day... a brand new in the box, all accessories included, Easy Bake Oven, $2.50!!!!

The cake was delicious!!!

Two Terra Cotta Pots ~ $1.00...

painted and decorated for Nate's Best Buddy...

and our Favorite Kindergarten Teacher!

She also bought a hawaiian shell necklace for me for only .50cents!!!

We had so much fun shopping together.

Art Show

2009-04-24T19:41:00.001-07:00

Gracie's elementary school hosted an Art Show last week, showcasing art from the entire school.

The girls were very excited to show off their lovely butterflies.

Gracie named her butterfly "Lili Loo Lollipop" (after a sweet classmate???). We love it and can't wait to hang "Lili" up at home. I especially like how she tried to sign her name in cursive... soooo grown-up!

For the boys... art may be more of an acquired taste that they haven't quite grown into.

Happy Earth Day to you...

2009-04-22T12:22:00.001-07:00

from our Surfing Garden Gnome.

Friend, resides in Gracie and Nate's flower and vegetable garden.

Gracie named him several years ago when he came to live in our backyard. He descends from a rare breed of Gnomes that surf. Gnome Experts have told us that there is only one other in existence.

We can't wait to take the kids to see this movie!!!

tiger

2009-04-21T17:01:00.001-07:00

face paint courtesy of Rachel ~ make-up by Gracie ~ photo by Mom

Cuz That's How They Roll...

2009-04-17T00:01:00.000-07:00

Donnie teaching Nate how to skateboard...

Donnie teaching TT how to skateboard.

Easter Sunday

2009-04-13T09:02:00.000-07:00

We had a great day filled with friends, food, family and not enough chocolate!

The kids did a great job decorating our eggs...

and they loved their Easter baskets.

Nate decided that his cape was required attire for the hunt...

Gracie wore her bunny ears.

Bubbles and Easter... the perfect combination.

After the hunt, the kids spent hours playing Easter Bunny, hiding and re-hiding eggs for each other.

Chocolate Bunnies for Breakfast... YUM!

Gracie in her Pinkalicious Easter Bonnet...

and Nate in his argyle sweater vest.

Sorry ladies. He's mine...

all mine.

oh Happy day!!!

(Recession Easter treat ~ courtesy of my little sis)

He Is Risen...

2009-04-12T01:27:00.001-07:00

... He is Risen Indeed. Hallelujah!

~ Happy Easter ~

I can't wait for the kids to wake up and discover their baskets filled with goodies. The Giraffeeeee (Nate LOVES Giraffes) and Fancy Nancy Doll from Mimi and PaPa are sure to be huge hits.

I just peeked in the backyard and it looks like The Bunny hopped by and sprinkled his magic... the entire yard is glittering with colorful eggs.

Best wishes to all for a Happy and Joy-Filled Easter.

Today, as we celebrate the miracle of the Resurrection of Christ, I wish to give you one more reason to celebrate:

My Blog has Risen

It has Risen Indeed

Hallelujah!!!

(I will do my best to catch up and stay current. ~ Thank you to everyone for your love and support during the past several months.)

Our family is blessed.

Gracie's first Wedding

2009-04-11T00:13:00.000-07:00

One of our little girls biggest dreams came true tonight... She was invited to attend her very first wedding with Mimi and PaPa. The bride, Amanda and her family are long time family friends. (I used to babysit Amanda and her big brother Jason many years ago.)

Mimi chose a pinkalicious polka dot dress for Gracie to wear on this special evening.

The wedding was held at the Phoenix Botanical Gardens. The Garden is currently hosting the artist CHIHULY and his beautiful glass sculptures. According to my Mom, Gracie was entranced by the beauty.

Gracie's chair had the winning dot underneath, and Gracie won the beautiful centerpiece at the dinner table. She was very excited to have her very own flowers to place on her bedroom dresser.

When asked the next day she told us that her favorite parts were:

Dancing, the Brides Dress, the Music, the flowers, drinking Shirley Temples with PaPa, getting dressed up with MiMi, meeting the two Cyndi/Cindy's, the cake...

the list was never-ending.

She fell asleep in the car on the way home...

I wonder if she was dreaming about her Prince Charming and their future wedding.

the best clam chowder... ever!!!

2008-11-29T07:51:00.000-08:00

Jenny and Craig had tickets to the Civil War Game (GO BEAVES!!!), so today we were on our own to explore Oregon. We decided to head for the coast... Cannon Beach.

We ate lunch at Mo's. The views were incredible and the food... delicious!!!

With our bellies full of clam chowder, we took a long walk on the beach. The kids found jellyfish, drew pictures in the sand, collected shells,

and ran around in the cool sea air.

smooch in front of Haystack Rock.

After our walk we warmed up with hot chocolates. puddle jumping and candy apples from quaint little downtown Cannon Beach.

the floating restaurant

2008-11-28T22:09:00.000-08:00

After a long day of shopping ~ (Jenny and I hit a few black friday sales), tree hunting and brewery hopping ~ (Donnie and Craig toured four brewhouses in four hours). Jenny and Craig decided to take our tired worn-out crew to one of their favorites, Newport Bay Restaurant in downtown Portland.

The "Floating Restaurant" sits right on top of the Willamette River.

After our delicious dinner ~ (Donnie had a big ol' filet of something and Jenny and I had the best Mojitos ever!!!) We took our leftover bread out on the dock to feed the ducks.

Downtown Portland.

The views were spectacular.

The Marquam Bridge.

Our evening downtown concluded with a walk underneath the blue lights of the Portland Riverfront. (Emma is going to be in the Olympics some day! She kicked my butt speed walking!)

One of the famous "Benson Bubblers."

(best water i've ever tasted!)

Our evening as seen through the eyes of Gracie.

the end.

sleighbells

2008-11-28T09:43:00.000-08:00

In Arizona, when it's time to put up the Christmas Tree, you have two options.

Purchase a half dead tree from a grocery store parking lot.
Pull the big fake pre-lit tree out of the box in the garage and spend 10 hours assembling it because half the lights stopped working.

In Oregon, you can drive five minutes from home ~ fill your belly up with hot chocolate, pick up a saw and measuring pole, and tromp all over the mountain till you find the perfect tree and cut one down. That is what we did today with our friends at Sleighbells Tree Farm, (only five minutes from Craig and Jenny's house).

Sleighbells is gorgeous, we felt like we were in a movie...

This gentleman played Christmas tunes on an old organ that were broadcast all over the farm. The kids made requests, he played their songs and they danced with joy!

First stop at the farm was the Sleighbell House ~ Inside we enjoyed; hot chocolate, wine tasting, red and green kettle corn,

thousands of ornaments, and best of all SANTA Clause!!!

They couldn't believe their eyes! They both sat on his lap for at least five minutes and gave him their lists: Gracie's top request ~ an American Girl Hair Doll. Nate's top request ~ a Quad. Santa was great, he took the time to comment on how much the kids have grown and even thanked them for the cookies and milk they left out last Christmas Eve.

Finally it was time to find the perfect tree.

Everyone had a job, Emma held the tree measuring pole and Jake very carefully carried the tree saw, Gracie led the pack and Nate trailed behind.

On the way up the hill Nate found a gigantic mushroom and his very own little tree.

We stopped and made an attempt once again to get the perfect group shot of the four kids...

we tried... (the boys had toy wooden guns to help them hunt for the perfect tree)

and tried again...

oh well.

Finally we found the perfect tree. The kids all took turns helping Andy cut it down. Emma and I helped carry the beauty down the hill.

we were spoiled...

Turkey Time

2008-11-27T21:52:00.000-08:00

After our morning in the park... we returned to the house where we spent a leisurely afternoon drinking Hot Toddies (my first) and Hot Chocolates with Smarshmellows (Nate's pronunciation), watching Donnie and Craig play the Wii, and studying black Friday Ads (we didn't think the deals were that great).

Our Thanksgiving Feast was hosted by Craig's parents at their house. Andy and Susan were awesome and made us feel right at home.

Nate finally fell asleep on Donnie's chest, five minutes before it was time to leave for the long walk to dinner. (Andy and Susan live four houses down the street)

Every Thanksgiving ~ Gracie wears her turkey apron. The apron was given to her by GiGi on the occasion of her very first Thanksgiving. This year we captured the annual Turkey Apron Photos in front of the fireplace at Craig's Parents house.

Attempts to photograph all four kids together in their fancy Thanksgiving duds, resulted in lots of out-takes!

Handsome Jake and Sweet Emma

Gracie may have had a little bit too much "kid-wine". (gracie and emma insisted on drinking out of fancy glasses the entire weekend)

Her TT-esque poses make her God-Mother proud.

thankful

Andy carved the bird and we all sat down to eat... yummy food, beautiful place setting cards by Emma, and our contribution ~ one of our family traditions... POPPERS!!!

Dinner was followed by good old-fashioned Dominoes overseen Susan.

(Susan's a 1st grade teacher ~ she told me that old fashioned games are always the most popular!)

We Gobbled till we Wobbled back home... I ate three helpings of Oregon Berry Crumble for dessert. mmmm.... Oregon berries....

oregon, leaves, newman, football & more leaves

2008-11-27T07:44:00.000-08:00

Our friends ~ Craig, Jenny, Jake, Emma and their Big Sweet Yellow Dog Newman moved back to their beloved Oregon last year. We are very grateful for the opportunity we had to stay with them in their beautiful home (and State) and spend the holiday with their family.... it was so much fun!!!

We woke up on Thanksgiving Morn' to this amazing view off their back porch.

As we took in the view and watched the Macy's Day Parade, Grace and Emma whipped up pancakes and eggs for us.

After breakfast, all of us took a "pre-feast" walk through the local park, (a five minute drive). I don't think that I have ever seen a more beautiful place.

We loved the Leaves!!!

The GIANT, Fall colored LEAVES!!!

We couldn't get enough of them!!!

Bliss!

During the walk Jake showed off his awesome football skills,

until we finally reached the playground, where I'm not sure who had more fun???

The daddies or the kids???

It felt so good to be snuggled up in hats and coats.

Football, Friends and Newman =

a Perfect Thanksgiving Day Combination!

Kindergarten Turkeys

2008-11-26T14:58:00.000-08:00

The Kindergartner's at Gracie's school have been learning about Thanksgiving this month. Every day our little turkey comes home with new facts about the Mayflower, Pilgrims and Indians.

The students have been practicing for weeks to perform a Thanksgiving Program today about all that they have learned. Because we needed to take off on our Thanksgiving adventure before the program started, Gracie was going to miss it. Imagine our excitement when we arrived to pick Grace up, and the kids were out practicing for the afternoon show! We were able to watch the entire program and it was terrific.

Here's a peek... sorry for the poor quality.

See below post for more photos of these talented kids...

Birds of a Feather...

2008-11-26T13:13:00.000-08:00

flock together!

Gracie's teacher and class made this Terrific Turkey for their classroom door.

Donnie, Nate and I were Thankful that we didn't miss watching Gracie and her classmates perform. Gracie was so excited!!!

The Kindergarten Class of 2008/09

We're so proud of our Kindergarten Turkey

~ and Thankful that she's been blessed with

an amazing teacher, school and classmates ~

Gobble 'Til You Wobble

2008-11-26T08:40:00.000-08:00

We're Off!

on our Thanksgiving Adventure...

to the City of Roses,

the birthplace of my little sister,

the home of our good friends.

Best wishes to everyone!!! We hope you have an amazing turkey day!

right now in our backyard....

2008-11-22T18:21:00.001-08:00

Happy Kids are Laughing.

nephew-napped

2008-11-20T17:49:00.000-08:00

We were able to keep Preston for three days, before his Mom and Dad came looking for him.

It was so much fun!

The kids slept together every night. There's always room in our beds for one more snuggler.

The boys and I visited the Phoenix Zoo, where the kids fed the Batrays...

and rode the Merry-go-Round. (three times, I was so dizzy!)

We took Preston to the gym where he learned how to SLAM THE CHEESE!

love.

cousins

2008-11-19T17:38:00.000-08:00

Last Sunday, we drove out to Donnie's sisters place and spent the day with our niece and nephews. The kids had a terrific time riding horses, quads, picking up horse poop (gracie), and watering trees.

The Dusty, Dirty Crew ~ Oldest to Youngest

Ashton (11), Ethan(7), Gracie (5), Preston (4), and Nathan(2)

Nate was a little shy about showing off his BIG MUSCLES.

Our Nieces and Nephews are the greatest!!!

As a matter of fact, we NEPHEW-Napped Preston and brought him home with us for a couple days...

Veteran's Day

2008-11-18T20:28:00.001-08:00

Last Tuesday, we celebrated the freedom given to us by our brave Veteran's by enjoying the beautiful Fall Day at the McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park.

Gracie was only 13 months old last time we went to the Railroad Park in March of 2004. This has always been one of my favorite pictures of our blue eyed baby girl.

Nate LOVED having big boy Josh with us! They took turns wrestling, chasing and tackling each other on the grass.

Josh, Ella, Sophie Mae and Gracie Mae

The girls got in on the tackling action too!

Tickets to ride the train were only a dollar!

The original plan for today was to visit the Phoenix Zoo. I'm so glad we decided to go with Plan B.

Big Cheesy Grins.

Josh and Gracie have known each other since they were toddlers.

The park has terrific train displays... the kids were entranced by them.

Our day ended with my favorite moment of the day... watching a Veterean sing God Bless America while accompanied by the 108th Army Band.

a lesson

2008-11-17T14:52:00.001-08:00

It seems that her teacher was trying to teach Gracie the very important lesson...

Don't Stick Your Nose Where It Doesn't Belong!

i need to be reminded of this one myself sometimes...

Blue Nose

2008-11-14T15:28:00.001-08:00

Today when I picked Gracie up from kindergarten she had a blue nose.

When I asked Gracie what happened she said...

"I was smelling the ink pad and it bumped on my nose."

When I asked Mrs. Bertel what happened she said...

"Don't ask me about the blue nose, I wouldn't let her wash it off. I'll write you a note."

Oh boy, I can't wait to hear the rest of this story.

rub a dub dub

2008-11-13T08:01:00.000-08:00

two very silly kids in the tub.

the BIG GREEN museum

2008-11-12T12:16:00.001-08:00

Last week Rachel and I packed the boys up and went into town to visit the Childrens Museum of Phoenix...

(nate calls the museum the BIG GREEN MUSEUM because of the neon green paint that was used to paint the back of the building.)

The Buddies ~ Nate, Zach and Charlie

They were very EXCITED...

and especially loved the stars that were stamped on their hands when we entered.

Unfortunately, the museum was jam packed (over 150 kids visiting on a field trip).

Fortunately, it was a GORGEOUS DAY OUTSIDE!!!

The boys had a blast playing on the museums front lawn... Running and Rolling around on the grass, Playing monsters and Chasing each other, Sitting in the big window ledges of this wonderful old building, Eating picnic lunch and Lying on the grass Looking at the birdhouses in the trees. (we're not sure why Nate kissed Zach... but it sure was cute!)

I can only imagine the adventures our boys will embark on in the future!

Veteran's Day

2008-11-11T10:39:00.000-08:00

late love wishes

2008-11-10T16:53:00.001-08:00

My little sister sent early wishes to Mom and Dad on Friday... In true "late Loraine style"... (cards from me are always late or never mailed ~ i inherited this trait from my MOM)...

here finally are... my happy love wishes for Mom and Dad.

mom and I circa 1977ish ~ in one of our happy places ~ Wonder Valley

Happy Birthday Mom (aka Mimi)!!!

I am sorry that we're not together to celebrate your 29th birthday!

If we were together today...

The kids and I would awaken you with a bouquet of Daisies (your favorite)...

You and I would drink coffee and watch the kids bake and decorate your Birthday Cake... and then listen to them sing to you, over and over and over again...

for the grand finale we would finish the day...

shopping and eating a late lunch at Nordstrom.

and then we would go back home, where Princess Gracie and Dirtbike Nate would be waiting for us so that we could...

Eat Cake.

Happy Birthday Mom ~ We Love You!

(Although these wishes are late, they come with an abundance of love. ~ I was in charge of sending your presents... so of course they're late too... look for a few of Shannon's and my favorite things in your mailbox later this week!)

Happy Anniversary Dad and Mom.

remember Mom, I picked him first.

Cuddle up next to each other and click here for a few minutes of Romantic Reminiscing .

I know that you will spoil each other with hugs and kisses tonight.

We Love You Both!!!

48 Days ~ 6 Hours ~ 33 Minutes

2008-11-06T14:59:00.001-08:00

...but who's counting???

can't wait.

l.s. thank's for sending the postcard love... love it!

kiss

2008-11-05T15:05:00.001-08:00

kiss:

to touch with the lips especially as a mark of affection or greeting
to touch gently or lightly ~ preferably while smooshing noses

grown-up time

2008-11-01T16:44:00.000-07:00

Donnie and I had a SWELL time tonight at our neighbors Halloween Party...

It is my distinct honor to introduce you to...

Ward and June Cleavage.

We WON First Prize for best costumes!!!

(My little sister and I both wore BOOB costumes this year, click here to see hers.)

trick or treat

2008-10-31T16:21:00.000-07:00

Finally after dinner and too many pictures it was finally time for Trick or Treating...

my favorite picture of Gracie taken tonight...

BatGirl and her Babies.

Nathan followed Donnie around all night saying... "Hey ~ Buddy Robin, you're my Dad!!!" On the way to our friends Halloween party, Nate said to me, "Mama Batgirl, I love you!" He loved having his parents dress up as his sidekick and "girlfriend".

Donnie's sister brought our Niece and Nephews up to the ranch to Trick or Treat with us.

Time to hit the streets!

Our kids LOVED Trick or Treating...

Every time Nate saw something that scared or frightened him he said,

"I'm not afraid of You, I'm Batman!!!"

SuperFly Family

Batman and his trusty sidekick Robin.

After the kids had made the neighborhood rounds and sufficiently filled their bags with candy, we headed over to our friends annual driveway party. The party started five years ago with only three families... Now it's the biggest party in the neighborhood.

One of my favorite things about our neighborhood is that the parents dress up too.

It was the best Halloween ever... I can't wait till next year!

Carving Pumpkins

2008-10-31T15:08:00.000-07:00

After school Donnie and the kids carved our big pumpkins. The kids were REALLY excited, as they've been waiting since we brought the pumpkins home from the farm to make Jack-O-Lanterns.

We woke up this morning... to find this beautiful Halloween Flower had bloomed in our garden.

For the very first time this year... Gracie was not afraid of pulling the goop out of the pumpkin.

Nate's favorite part of carving was the giant knife that he and Daddy used to carve with.

Both kids wanted Spooky Scary Jack O' Lantern Faces.

Fall Fest Fun

2008-10-31T13:42:00.000-07:00

Gracie's kindergarten celebrated the holiday today with a classroom Fall Festival. The students families were invited to join the fun, so Donnie, Nate and I had a great time celebrating and watching the kids.

Ainsley's Mom, made this amazing quilt for the schools upcoming silent auction fundraiser.

Each of the kids made these very creepy popcorn skeleton hands with candy corn fingernails.

Nate got in on the action too... candy corns are his favorite!

Each of the kids had an opportunity to bob for apples. Mrs. Bertel grew up bopping for apples and really wanted her kids to experience it... most of them had never done it before.

Grace pulled out a Big Green Apple... her favorite!

SuperFly Family

2008-10-31T09:59:00.000-07:00

Gracie: "Momma, I don't fit in... I'm a Butterfly and all of you are Superheros."

Mom: "Gracie, all of us can FLY!!! We're the SuperFly Family!"

Brave BatMan, Robin, BatGirl and the Beautiful Azure Butterfly

alien visitor ~ busy week

2008-10-29T09:21:00.000-07:00

Daddy brought home this awesome big cardboard box for Nate yesterday...

Nate calls it his Spaceship.

This morning as Nate was preparing for blast-off, he discovered that a special little alien had creeped in for a visit.

We've had an awesome (and very busy) week!!!

Click Here to see what the kids did Saturday with ROCKET DAD, while Ann, Miss Mae and I were brunching Here. Click Here to see where Nate and I spent Monday morning in our Jammies. On Wednesday, we went Here for the BIG Half Yearly Sale... oops!!! we were a week early... guess where I'll be next Wednesday. And every ~ single ~ night this week has been filled with This.

I'm Ready for a Nap... Have a Happy Day!!!

little gardener

2008-10-28T16:02:00.000-07:00

Don't Cha Wish Your Gardener Was HOT Like Mine???

I'm a lucky girl... my Big Gardener is HOT too!!!

In A Dark, Dark Room...

2008-10-27T18:22:00.000-07:00

One of our goals as parents this year has been to create more Family Traditions within our little family. Tonight Donnie and I started a brand new tradition... Spooky Story Night.

When the kids finished with their bath, I presented them with flashlights and brand new Halloween jammies. I told them that after they put on their jammies that they needed to use the flashlights to find Daddy in our house...

With scary music and spooky sounds booming from our stereo... They walked through the pitch black house in search of Daddy.

The kids found him, surrounded by hanging clothes and darkness in our very very dark master bedroom closet. Only candles lit up the room.

With a very deep voice Daddy invited Nate and Gracie into the closet... "Come in little children, shut the door, turn off your flashlights. Gather 'round and enjoy cookies with me as I read to you a story!"

We sat in the dark and listened as Donnie read to us from this book. When he finished reading, he asked the kids to make up their own ghost stories.

Their imaginations are HUGE, the stories were hilarious...

The cookies and milk were delicious!!!

Mission accomplished... Our family officially has the Halloween Spirit!!!

Dance Party

2008-10-25T21:51:00.000-07:00

TT's special delivery package included lots of goodies... A reusable grocery bag (my sis and I collect the cute ones ~ long story) for me, a new toy car for Nate and best of all a Dance CD mixed by Shannon for the kids...

Last night turned into an Impromptu Family Dance Party in our kitchen/back porch as we giggled and watched the kids dance to their new music. (Donnie and I tried to join in... we were politely asked to sit back down and watch.)

Gracie wore her petti-skirt (required dance party attire), and taught Nate how to shake his cute little booty... Gracie Style!

Our Dancing Queen, soon decided that her little brothers nakedness wouldn't do for our fancy dance party. So she took it upon herself to dress him up in this get-up. Nate thought he looked very suave, Donnie and I thought he looked like a Cheesy Salesman.

Thank You TT!!!

You helped turn an ordinary Friday night into an unforgettable family fun night.

(Gracie's favorite song is Don't Cha ~ she calls it the Chipmunk Song.)

Spirit Week

2008-10-24T11:19:00.000-07:00

For the past five days we've been celebrating Spirit Week at Gracie's elementary school. Each day required a different style of dress...

MONDAY

Dress as what you would like to be when you grow up...

Gracie chose a Veterinarian.

TUESDAY

Dress like your teacher...

This one was a tough one for me, so I asked Gracie how do we dress you like Mrs. Bertel?

She said, "That's easy, I need short hair, crocs, a name tag and I have to wear black!"

WEDNESDAY

Dress like a celebrity...

Gracie was a Rockstar!

Isn't Gracie's Rock Star Shirt AWESOME!!!

My super talented friend designed and custom made it for us, (her daughter Ainsley is in Gracie's class.)

Check out Cristy's blog/website and ETSY Store by clicking here.

THURSDAY

Wear your Cougar colors...

She showed her Cougar pride by wearing Black and Red today.

FRIDAY... finally!

Wear your class Character Color...

Today Gracie's class wore their character color RED = Caring.

After school a special deliver package arrived on our doorstep from our New York City Auntie. Inside the package were Gold, Yellow and Red leaves from Central Park. Gracie and Nathan were super excited about the beautiful leaves and the other fun goodies in our box. Gracie will be taking the leaves to school on Monday to share with her classmates.

Down on the Farm

2008-10-23T16:58:00.000-07:00

Ann and I crashed the preschool field trip today and took our boys + Sophie to Tomalchoff Farms. We couldn't resist the chance to visit this great place again.

Nate started out the day chasing the farm kitty cat.

Then he rode the train, he was very excited about the star stamp that the train conductor gave him.

Next we were off to pick vegetables.

Click here to see pictures of Grace pulling carrots for the very first time last year.

Nate taste tested a carrot out in the field... he didn't like the dirt!

The boys filled their bags full of fresh from the garden veggies... Carrots, Cucumbers, Cilantro all of the ingredients needed to make Uncle Byron's Famous Albondigas Soup.

Favorite part of the day... watching Nate and Charlie hold this baby chick.

(Their Mama's very sneakily snuck the chick out it's cage for their boys to hold!!!)

Our rough and tough little boys were gentle and careful with the tiny bird.

click here to see pictures from the last time we held the Tomalchoff Chicks.

sweet farm boy

Sophie picked out this funny looking pumpkin and gave it to Nate...

Nate was very confused and didn't know quite what to make of it.

It was a long day... we left tired, happy, and ready to go home, take naps and dream

John Deere Dreams.

back to school

2008-10-22T17:50:00.000-07:00

I spent the morning volunteering in Gracie's classroom. It was a fantastic day, I cannot wait to volunteer again next month! Wish I had loved school this much when I was a student...

I was completly blown away by Gracie's teacher, Mrs. Bertel and her

Amazing Kindergartners.

Can you figure out which kindergartner is Grace???.

Explanation for her BIG HAIR and Pinkalicious TUTU coming soon.

twins

2008-10-21T16:22:00.000-07:00

Our sweet friends Jimmy and Sarah are expecting twin baby boys in December. We had a great time showering them with love last weekend at their baby shower.

Gracie drew pictures of what the babies will look like. She drew Baby A to look just like Jimmy and Baby B to look just like his Mama.

Gracie happily assisted in opening the mountains of gifts.

Meanwhile... Daddy and Nate were out front checking out this "cool ride" that one of the guests drove to the party.

Congratulations Jimmy and Sarah!

We can't wait to hold and love on your babies, just like you've always loved on ours.

Cheap Entertainment

2008-10-20T19:54:00.000-07:00

The Trash Man made my job very easy today...

My Son (as always ~ not wearing any pants), Sweet Sophie Mae and Charlie Buddy were completely enamored with his Great Big Trash Truck.

Their interest, might have something to do with both of our families shared love of this book.

Fall Break ~ Day #5

2008-10-17T10:52:00.000-07:00

Today was the final weekday of Gracie's break and my favorite day yet. Daddy took the day off work and planned an exciting and busy day for our family. Today was Daddy Day!

Together we:

ate pancakes
walked around the lake
worked on Gracie's math workbook
watched the kids swim in our neighbors freezing cold pool
worked with Nate on his skateboarding skills
washed our giant pumpkins and played with the water hose in our backyard
played with trains and read books
went to Cabella's and checked out the cool camping gear, practiced shooting in the target range
sat at the sushi bar in a favorite sushi restaurant and ate dinner
watched the kids play and get soaking wet in the water at WestGate, ate ice cream
LOVED on each other

My favorite snapshot of the day:

Mommy says smile and...

Donnie doesn't smile, Gracie conjures up her Mimi's infamous Deer in the Headlights Pose, (sorry Mom!!!) and Nate Shut his Eyes.

Fall Break ~ Day #4

2008-10-16T15:39:00.000-07:00

The fourth day of Fall break took us to the pumpkin patch at Schnepf Farm . Aunt Sara and Cousin Rachel joined us and we had a super great day.

We love our Rachel!!!

The kids had their faces painted. Nate chose a spider, Gracie and Rachel matching ghosts.

Joe Cool and his Big Sis climbed to the top of the haystack.

(Mr. Cool's Mama had to climb up and help him down.)

At the Pig Race, Gracie was chosen out of the audience to represent and cheer for the pig wearing the red hankie.

Gracie's pig came in second place.

The Lady Bug Swing was Gracie's favorite ride of the day. She rode it at least 10 times!!!

The Roller Coaster was Dare Devil Rachel's favorite... it totally freaked Gracie out.

When the wild ride was over, Gracie told Aunt Sara...

"I am NEVER doing that again till I'm Seven!"

Rachel's Repeat Rides on the Roller Coaster with her Mama... Priceless.

Cousins

Our girls are growing up way too fast!!!

Nate decided to walk into a pond during lunch... so he spent half the day ~ half naked.

What is it with this kid and clothes???

Giggles on the Bumble Bee Ride.

There were six airplanes, Nate flew each of them twice. In this picture he's giving Aunt Sara a

Great Big Thumbs Up!!!

Search for the Great Pumpkin.

Our little pumpkins.

Time spent with family, the best lemonade ever and watching my niece ride a roller coaster for the very first time.

It was a Boo-Tiful day!!!

Fall Break ~ Day #3

2008-10-15T12:10:00.000-07:00

Today, inspired by the book How to Make an Apple Pie and see the world, we baked pie.

Our little baker was very excited to finally make an apple pie, she's been learning all about apples in kindergarten.

We followed the recipe in the back of the book... it was delicious!!!

While the pie cooled, Nate, Scooby, Gracie, Candy Cane and I went to see the movie Beverly Hills Chihuahua. Scooby rated the movie two paws up, Candy Cane gave it two barks.

Fall Break ~ Day #2

2008-10-14T12:01:00.000-07:00

Tuesday took us tromping through the Phoenix Zoo while wearing our birthday... bathing suits.

When Gracie was in preschool, the kids and I went to the zoo almost every week. It was great to once again enjoy a weekday visit to one of our favorite stomping grounds with my girl.

Nathan was not happy about sharing the telescope with his big sister.

Nathan loves looking at his GIRAFEEZ through the telescope.

Gracie convinced her baby brother to ride the camel for the very first time today. This camels name was Mohave and it was his very first day on the job.

All of the animals were active today, they too must be happy that cool weather is almost here!

Our friends the Burkharts joined us, Snow Cones for everyone!

This guy either wanted to make friends or eat our snow cones...

Cherry Snow Cone ~ Cherry Bikini ~ Cherry Girl

The zoo has an awesome new water play area for the kids, complete with slides, caves, sound effects and a river to walk through. Nate ran into the cave with his trunks on... and ran out naked as a jay bird.

He thought it was hilarious. He giggled, laughed and ran to the other side of this fence so that I wouldn't be able to catch him.

GOTCHA!!!

We said goodbye to the zoo with a visit to the Monkey Village. Gracie was both intrigued and disgusted by their poop.

Right after this picture was taken, the little monkey in this picture jumped onto the rope right next to my (fully clothed) little monkey. Nathan laughed, I screamed.

Fall Break ~ Day #1

2008-10-13T17:37:00.000-07:00

Today marked the first day of Gracie Mae's Fall break from school. All of our plans to get the heck out of Dodge didn't pan out, (hope your ready for us in the Spring Lewchanin's). So we've decided to make lemons out of lemonade and enjoy the coming week at a few of the great places our Valley has to offer.

Today we visited... the Arizona Science Center.

She looked so small next to the giant building.

Highlights of the day included catching pixels in this exhibit...

getting snowed on in Narnia...

and finally experiencing a tornado, earthquake and monsoon in the weather exhibit.

My Digital World was our absolute favorite exhibition!!! The three of us could have played there for hours...

Somehow Nate managed to still look cute, even with the crazy distorted head.

Mama's advice to Gracie and Nate today...

Life's short...

Always run through the Sprinklers!!!

A Ghosting We Will Go!

2008-10-12T19:48:00.000-07:00

One of our favorite Halloween Family Traditions is Ghosting. Since before Donnie and I had kids, we have been "spreading ghostie cheer" to our friends and neighbors. This past weekend was our official Ghosting Weekend (six houses in two nights ~ we're serious Ghosters)...

Step 1. Fill buckets full of Fun Halloween treats and goodies.

(superhero capes and silly hats optional, although they do help little Ghosts run faster!)

Step 2. Sneak quietly and quickly to the front doors of your friends and neighbors.

(not getting caught is all part of the fun!)

Step 3. Set treat filled bucket on the doorstep, pound on door, ring doorbell and quickly run and jump into the Get-Away Car...

(little ghosts always appear blurry in photos... very SPOOKY!!!)

Step 4. Get caught ghosting at the home of some of your closest friends, and invite yourselves to dinner. Send Dads to fetch pizza at the new joint down the hill (it took them forever to get home), and Ghost the last house on your list together!!!

I got my Wish

2008-10-10T16:33:00.000-07:00

My babies have their smiles back today...

as well as their silly personalities!

Gracie had a super day at school. She made a beautiful Noodle Necklace and this very cute Nest Hat with blue robin eggs.

Daddy's Home. Thank goodness it's Friday!!!

out of commission

2008-10-09T18:16:00.000-07:00

Still not feeling well... I miss their smiles.

We spent the day watching watching Underdog (three times), reading books, cuddling, drinking gatorade, napping, missing our friends, eating chicken noodle soup...

I hope tomorrow brings a happier healthier day!

(i don't think I could stomach watching Underdog again.)

Sea Monster

2008-10-08T10:35:00.000-07:00

While on our vacation last month, Donnie took the kids for a walk and they discovered a Big, Big, Big, Big Sea Squid that had washed up on the beach. Nate was convinced that it was a monster. Enjoy this video of him telling me about their find.

He never did go back with Donnie and Gracie to look at it again... It was too SCARY!!!

the lost beach photos

2008-10-07T13:45:00.000-07:00

Last month, we had an unbelievably great vacation at the beach. Unfortunately, upon arriving home, we experienced a major camera malfunction and discovered that all of the pictures on our little camera were missing, never to be seen again ~ we thought.... until, my awesome husband somehow tweaked the camera and found the lost pictures.

So, without further ado. Here they are... (in completely random order), the lost beach photos...

Frisbee with Dad

Nate snuggled up ~ sleeping on my chest during sunset. BLISS.

little brother chasing Big Sister

Nathan's rock train was over 20 feet long!

our beach babes

my whole world

the girls

(see Shannon, my nose is sorta biggish... please reconsider p.s.w.)

We met this guy at the end of the Ocean Beach Pier... Donnie and Nate told him that they liked his ride... his response... "Only in California Man, only in California!"

The flowers at the farmers market were only $1.50 - $4.00 a bouquet. We bought Gracie a bunch and she brought them back home to Arizona with us.

daddy daughter giggles

Nate and Gracie's perfect lunch... Sandy Chicken on our Jones Beach blanket.

Mom was in charge of sunblock... I missed a spot... which resulted in my having to pay $15.00 for Solarcaine at the hotel gift shop... oops!

We walked to the end of the pier for burgers, fries and milkshakes at Ruby's... a family favorite.

the boys

Who's looking at who???

thinking about living by the ocean is our favorite daydream...

I love you too Donnie.

Walking the pier to Ruby's, peeking in the fisherman's buckets, breathing the cool sea air and watching the guys surf at night, underneath the pier with glo-sticks strapped to their arms... AWESOME!!!

have you met my little Sister?

2008-10-06T13:13:00.001-07:00

She's Amazing!!!

Check out Shannon's bomb diggity new blog, lemonsinmybra.com and enjoy everything that is her...

don't forget to leave a comment and let her know you stopped by.

Sick Day Parade

2008-10-05T12:29:00.000-07:00

Our kids have been sick all weekend... Gracie with croup and Nate an ear infection. While on our way to the pediatrician last week, we ran into our local high schools Homecoming Parade.

The kids and I pulled over and watched the fire truck, police cars and motorcycles, marching band and cheesy high school floats.

The doctor always makes us wait... so today I decided that a little fresh air might do us good and we let him wait for us...

Snapshots of a Kindergarten Lunch

2008-10-03T11:30:00.000-07:00

Once a week Nate and I join Gracie for lunch in her school cafeteria. It's been a really great way for us to get to know Gracie's classmates better, and Nathan loves all of the attention the kids give him. You never know what's going to happen or what the kids will say.

Jacob (our neighbor and Gracie's classmate), Nate and Gracie

We never get much to eat, but it's always an adventure...

Here's a breakdown of this days lunchtime events:

We got off to a not so great start, as soon as we walked into the cafeteria, Nate smashed his fingers in a large metal door... (Nate recovered quickly ~ he liked the school nurse and told her that she was pretty... Flirt.)

We entered the cafeteria to find that the air conditioning was not working, it was 90 degrees!

The kid sitting next to Gracie took a few bites of his food and then promptly threw up on his plate.

The little boy next to me said that he was sad because his dog died. I told him that I was sorry and asked how long ago the dog died? He replied "0h, 4 years ago".

Lunch ended when right behind me, a cafeteria worker blew a whistle to quiet down the kids and announce that lunch was over... It was SO LOUD ~ I nearly jumped out of my skin.

Goodbye Gracie

Nate just had to pose next to this motorcycle in the parking lot.

During dinner Donnie asked her how her lunch with Mama and Nate was.

Gracie told her Daddy that it was the Greatest Lunch Ever!

I cant wait to see what's on the menu for next week!

playing pirates with Dad

2008-10-02T21:56:00.000-07:00

Donnie took our spooky treasure filled Halloween bins, out of the attic tonight. We love Halloween, it's our favorite time of the year. We already have our costumes picked out and can't wait to decorate the house.

Donnie and Nate found pirate tattoos in the bins, leftover from last year. The boys had a great time playing pirates tonight.

Nate's Mean Pirate Face.

Baseball Beef Stew

2008-10-01T10:36:00.000-07:00

With both Gracie and Nate playing tee-ball, our evenings are hectic and busy with practices and games. This new schedule has required that I be more creative when planning our family dinners... time to break out the Crock Pot.

One of our long time family favorites is the newly named, Baseball Beef Stew. The kids love to help prepare this hearty meal and they like eating it too!

click HERE for recipe

Now if we could just teach him to put the lid down...

2008-09-29T13:48:00.000-07:00

and to stop un-twirling the toilet paper.

Last week, we told him baseball players don't wear diapers, he hasn't worn them again since!

Wish I could say that I'm thrilled, but I'm sad that I have changed my baby boy's diaper for the very last time...

Loving this book right now about celebrating the precious "lasts".

"Long ago you came to me,

a miracle of firsts:

First smiles and teeth and baby steps,

a sunbeam on the burst.

But one day you will move away

and leave to me your past,

And I will be left thinking of

a liftetime of your lasts..."

~ excerpt from Let Me Hold You Longer by Karen Kingsbury

Charlie Buddy

2008-09-27T19:41:00.000-07:00

Nate's "Charlie Buddy" turned three today. The gang celebrated with a terrific train themed party (Charlie's favorite) at the local community splash park.

Charlie and Nate

I often wonder if these two were formulating plans for mischief, long before they were born.

The big sisters had a great time too!

When it was time for cake, Nate found a seat right next to the birthday boy... which was fine until it was time for Charlie to blow out his candles and Nate decided to "help". Charlie you can blow out Nathan's candles when he turns three... we promise.

Happy Birthday Charlie ~ We Love You!

This morning in our neighborhood...

2008-09-26T09:07:00.000-07:00

a Superhero and a Princess rode their bikes to school.

The Bulls ~ Play Ball

2008-09-25T07:51:00.000-07:00

The Durham Bulls played their very first game tonight at our awesome new field.

Candy from the ballpark snack bar ~ Yum! The perfect summertime treat.

(and the perfect way for this Mama to get her very tired, just woke up from a nap ballplayer going!)

Our boy is still getting used to wearing his glove.

Batter Up!

Both times at bat, Nate hit the ball clear out into right center field.

He found interesting ways to entertain himself while running the bases.

The game otherwise known as "tackle tee-ball".

Every time the ball was hit, the entire team would run and fight for it.

Big League Dreams

2008-09-24T09:39:00.000-07:00

Gracie and her team the Muckdogs had the distinct honor of being the very first team ever to play an official game on our neighborhoods brand new little league field. 'D-votion Field' was given to our kids by the Arizona Diamondbacks and it is AWESOME!!!

Ballet on the baseball field.

Our Muckdog.

These girls are very serious ball players... no time for chit-chat... it's all about The Game...

There are only three girls on the team.

Nate dreaming big league dreams... (gracie at bat)

Donnie was a base coach during the game. Nate was not happy and wanted his daddy the entire time. At the end of the game, he finally got his wish.

Curl

2008-09-23T00:37:00.000-07:00

There was a little girl,

Who had a little curl,

Right in the middle of her forehead.

When she was good,

She was very very good indeed,

But when she was bad she was horrid!

-- Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

Even though this poem was written over 100 years ago, Donnie and I are convinced that Longfellow had OUR sweet daughter in mind while writing it. When my sister and I were little girls, our Aunt Gwen always said that the poem was about us.....

hmmm. Guess Gracie takes after Shannon and I.

Monday

2008-09-22T08:13:00.000-07:00

This morning Gracie rode her bike to school for the very first time!

On mornings like this, I love love love our neighborhood... it was only 75 degrees.

Gracie sang songs and recited nursery rhymes all the way to school.

Not wanting to be left out, Nate got in on the action too.

We made it!

She's a swinger. :-)

Crayolas

2008-09-21T00:50:00.000-07:00

Is there anything better than a brand new box of Crayolas?

hmmm.... Perhaps TWO brand new boxes of Crayolas!!!

I asked the kids, "What's your favorite crayon color?" Gracie answered, "All the Pink ones!" Nate chose sky blue.

Meet the Muckdogs

2008-09-19T08:32:00.000-07:00

Tonight was Gracie's first practice for her new tee-ball team, the Muckdogs. We are definitely turning into a baseball family!

Even Donnie made it to practice today.

I thought that Gracie resembled a tennis player more than a baseball player...

but when it was her turn to practice batting, she hit further then most of the boys on her team!

Gracie's favorite parts of tee-ball are running the bases...

and the team cheer!

1 ~ 2 ~ 3!!! GO MUCKDOGS!!!

The boys stayed very busy at practice too. Comparing shoes and playing in the dirt...

retrieving runaway balls...

and enjoying the freedom to explore the wide open spaces of the practice fields.

It's going to be a fun season.

Show and Share

2008-09-19T06:09:00.000-07:00

Today is Gracie's turn to lead Show and Share at school. Last night, I sent the kids out to the garden to find something interesting for her to show the class.

They found caterpillars!

We quickly found a jar and prepped the caterpillars for their first day of kindergarten!

Gracie's super excited. What a lucky find! It's also her turn to take snack to share with her classmates. The snack of the day... pretzel fish and yogurt smoothies.

vacuum ~ lost treasures in the sofa

2008-09-18T00:51:00.000-07:00

Everything is more fun with my little guy, even vacuuming!

He likes the hose.

Here's a list of the items that Nate and I found, underneath the cushions our now very clean sofas and chairs...

1 half eaten chicken dino

2 mismatched socks

2 popsicle sticks

1 army man

1 broken pencil

1 binky (presumably belonging to Miss Mae)

1 pen

7 crayons

1 rotten banana peel

1 polly pocket

477 crumbs and pieces of popcorn

1 pair of nail clippers

5 pony tail holders (pink, red, pink, blue, green)

Have I mentioned, I don't love housework.

Durham Bulls

2008-09-17T00:03:00.000-07:00

Nate had his very first t-ball practice for his team the Durham Bulls this week. He did well and was very excited and enthusiastic.

This is Nate's first time playing an organized sport.

Playing Catch.

Coach Bell and Nate

Best buddy Charlie is a Bull too!

Little Slugger

The Bulls are working on learning how to run the bases. Guess it's time to buy socks and sneakers... a much harder task then it sounds like for this flip flop wearing family.

Trains

2008-09-16T06:39:00.000-07:00

Our new road rug and train tracks from Ikea have provided the kids with hours of entertainment.

Thank's Ann! :-)

Weekend

2008-09-14T20:06:00.000-07:00

This weekend we...

planted Magic Rocks (they really did grow!)...

played on our newest toy...

can you see Donnie?

Enjoyed cool drinks on our backyard bench...

and were very silly kids...

very silly!

We closed the blinds, made popcorn and snuggled up in the playroom to watch one of our favorite movies...

and went shopping. Nathan LOVES Costco. Every time we go there, he asks to go to the back of the store so that he can watch the forklifts. The guys wave to him and always put on a show of lifting merchandise up to the top and bringing it back down..

Gracie's Big Date

2008-09-12T22:09:00.000-07:00

Gracie's eagerly awaited date with her daddy finally arrived... tonight was the First Annual ~ Daddy Daughter Dance in our community.

Gracie has been looking forward to this day for over a month. This morning she put the final sticker on her Countdown to the Ball with Dad chart.

Daddy's girl 2 1/2 months.

Still Daddy's girl and growing up way too fast.

Princess Grace six months old.

Princess Grace almost six years old.

All ready to go in her pinkalicious dress and his matching tie.

The perfect silver dancing shoes... Gracie called them her dancing high heels. She really wanted a pink dress, she picked this one out on the computer. Ella and Gracie spent the afternoon at the beauty shop having their hair done... They were very pampered Princesses.

My favorite photo of the evening.

Donnie gave Gracie these beautiful "diamond" bracelets. Gracie gasped when he opened the box and said "Oh Daddy, are they REAL Diamonds, can I keep them?"

Goodbye Kisses.

I wish that I could have been a fly on the wall at the dance. (Ann and I did sneak over and try to peak through the windows...) Gracie and Donnie were home at 8:00pm. Gracie was deliriously happy and tired. They said that they danced, ate dinner, had a toast, won prizes, enjoyed time with friends and danced some more.

The Beach

2008-09-11T11:22:00.000-07:00

We had a terrific week at the beach.

Amazing! Just a five hour drive and we went from this...

to this...

where we could finally enjoy being this!

The kids had a great time...

imitating characters from a favorite book...

laughing...

getting very, very sandy...

looking for seashells, building sand castles, sea rock trains, horse corrals and writing our names in the sand.

Sushi, Hot Surfing Husband, great books, cheap wine, content children, beach chair, dark chocolate, perfect weather = Very Happy Mama!!!

Every time Donnie went out to do this...

his little grom did this, (he wanted to go with his Daddy).

At the end of each day, we had two very tired babies...

We had an amazing day at Sea World. Gracie and I sat in the Splash Zone at the Shamu Show and got totally soaked. It was so much fun!!!

We had Lunch with Shamu, our very own private show and an opportunity to meet with Shamu's trainer. All of us were given the opportunity to ask the trainer a question. Gracie's question... "What does whale poop look like?"

Lunch was great and seeing the whales up close was a real treat.

Gracie's favorite's at Sea World included the show Pets Rule, the tide pools and getting splashed by Shamu.

Nathan was fascinated by the starfish and loved the climbing structures at the Sesame Street Bay of Play.

We met Zoey and Elmo on Sesame Street. As soon as the kids saw them they all ran to each other for a giant group hug.

We had a great day at Sea World... we go every year and we can't wait to go back.

All of us LOVE hotels, we didn't want to ever leave.

Before leaving town we stopped at the beach to say goodbye till next time.

We love California. But today our hearts were in New York...

We Will Never Forget ~ 9/11

Families that wear Rainbows together... stick together!

Playing Hookey...

2008-09-07T12:50:00.000-07:00

We're off to our "Happiest Place on Earth"...

The Beach!!!

While there we plan to...

run...

surf...

giggle...

build sandcastles...

watch the sunsets...

surf...

laugh...

go here...

or here...

(we can't decide yet)

surf...

(My husband is such a STUD ~ Surfing and our shared love of the ocean ~ two of many reasons I fell in love with him.)

enjoy cool evening walks on the pier...

play in the water, and finally...

hopefully a little of this.

Most of all, we can't wait to spend the week together, making memories with the kiddos.

***all pictures Southern California ~ 2006-07

Pump it Up!

2008-09-06T21:46:00.000-07:00

Nate's good buddy celebrated his third birthday tonight at Pump It Up!!! Nate, Gracie and Donnie had a blast bouncing, climbing and sliding on the giant blow up bouncers.

Nate thought that a Saturday night playdate was a pretty cool idea... All of us enjoyed spending the evening with our friends.

Just like her Mom and Dad, Gracie is a pro at air hockey!

She beat me twice.

He may be small, but he climbs like Spiderman.

Happy Birthday Josh!!!

Remembering

2008-09-06T06:19:00.000-07:00

January 2007...

Hot Chocolate Face on his very first trek to the snow - Flagstaff, Arizona.

Our Snow Angel with a very Pink cherry nose.

Our "big" one year old boy, "riding" our neighbors scooter. (Just after this picture was taken, he fell off the scooter and ended up with a big goose-egg on his forehead).

This was Gracie's favorite horse dress. She would have worn it every day if we let her.

It seems lately, that alot of my remembering has to do with cool weather days... I can't wait to turn off the air conditioning and open up all the doors and windows. I can't wait for jeans, sweaters, long sleeves and tights.

Bangs

2008-09-05T07:58:00.000-07:00

Please STOP me, next time I take Gracie to the hair dresser and think that bangs are a good idea...

Go Sarah!!!

2008-09-03T19:44:00.000-07:00

Gracie - "Mama, who's that?"

Mom - "That's Sarah Palin, she may be the very first little girl to grow up and become the Vice President of the United States".

Gracie - "Is she a Hot Chick*?"

Mom - "Yes Gracie, she is a Hot Chick. Yes."

*Gracie and her friends Kyra and Ella have been called the Hot Chicks since they were babies.

These are a few of Nate's Favorite Things!

2008-09-03T07:34:00.001-07:00

I cannot get enough of this kid!!!

Here's a few of his favorite things...

Sleeping in Daddy and Mommy's bed and

building "trains" by removing all of the cushions from the family room sofa and using the back of the sofa as his motorcycle ramp. Ocassionally he yells "All Aboard!" and asks me to board the train for rides... When I ask him where we're going, he always says, "The Zoo".

He also loves, everything with wheels,

making funny sounds,

looking at things from a different perspective,

lining up his toys and,

Mommy.

Labor Day Weekend ~ 2008

2008-09-01T08:18:00.000-07:00

We had a great Labor Day weekend.

The kids greeted their TT and Mikey with big hugs and flowers. TT's first request... real mexican food at her Arizona favorite, Carolina's. Second request, shopping at Nordstrom... I love my Sister!!!

Lot's of GiGi lovin.

The girls spent most of Saturday antiquing and shopping at the Pine/Strawberry Arts & Crafts Festival. My little sister and I couldn't resist trying on these Little House on the Prairie bonnets.

Our favorite finds of the day... a vintage box purse for Miss Gracie and this beautiful turquoise beeded necklace and cute red vase for me. We also found an adorable vintage apron with rickrack and cactus on the pockets for Shannon.

While we were shopping, the boys hung out at the local Saloon.

After we finished spending all of our money, we joined them.... for Shirley Temples,

and dancing.

We had a great family dinner on Saturday night. Uncle Jimmy dazzled the kids with his car. (Grammie said the rumors are flying at church about the squad car that was parked in front of her house).

Cousins.

We took Mikey-Mike to his very first Rodeo.

The Rodeo Announcer said "GIT IT DONE" at least 500 times.

At the rodeo the kids practiced their roping skills,

painted horses,

and enjoyed lots of TT kisses.

We also had breakast at The Beeline Cafe (I used to crave their biscuits and gravy when I was pregnant with Gracie), swam at the indoor pool in our hotel, played in the rain and caught giant bugs at the Rodeo.

Yee Haw!!!

Labor Day Weekend 2007

2008-08-29T00:03:00.000-07:00

Last year, we spent an amazing weekend at the Princess Resort in Scottsdale. We enjoyed dive in movies at the pool, Sun Devil Football, and best of all... a visit from Godfather Jim.

Jim flew out from his home in Connecticut to enjoy the Arizona sunshine with us. He spent most of the weekend at the hotel pool using our kids as "Chick Magnets".

Just one year ago... Gracie had mastered the art of swimming and Nate's hair was bleached blonde from his second long HOT summer.

I wish that I could go back in time and kiss his sweet little mouth. I wish that I could remember why he was looking at me with those big brown eyes and such a serious expression...

This year, Donnie and I, and the "Two little Fruits of Our Labor" are off to spend a cool weekend in the Arizona High Country with TT, Mikey Mike and GG (Great-Grandma).

Happy Labor Day Weekend to You!!!

Nie Nie Day

2008-08-28T13:07:00.000-07:00

If you have a few extra moments... please visit designmom.com. DesignMom is hosting over 300 + silent auctions that will run through most of the weekend. People have donated amazing things... Several times today, I've bid, been out-bid, and bid again. The response to the auction has been HUGE.

Gracie's costume has been boxed up and is ready for shipment to the NieNie Benefit Sale. The pirate costume will on sale in the Etsy Benefit Store on September 23 & 24. I'll keep you posted.

Pink Polka Dot Aprons

2008-08-27T09:24:00.000-07:00

Scored major points with the husband last night... Gracie and I made a very yummy and super easy Bruschetta Chicken Bake Casserole for dinner. For dessert Chocolate Peanut Butter Bars. I love cooking in the kitchen with Chef Gracie!

I said scored points Shannon... not "SCORED"!!! :-)

**click dish names for recipes**

Nie Nie

2008-08-26T12:17:00.000-07:00

Please take a moment to read about this amazing Blogger Mama... Stepha'nie' Nielson is a local mom here in Arizona. Her blog "The NieNie Dialogues" beautifully shares little glimpses into her life ~~ passion for her 4 small children, good cooking, creative decorating, and fabulous red lipstick worn during dates with her sweet husband... She's absolutely INSPIRING in every sense of the word.

Unfortunately, sometimes very bad things happen to good people. On August 16th Stephanie and her husband Christian were in a private plane crash (along with their flight instructor, Doug Kinneard, who died soon after the crash from injuries). Stephanie has burns covering 80% of her body, Christian's burns cover about 1/3 of his.

Their children are being cared for by her sisters.

Although I've never met this family, I feel deeply compelled to help. Her family is expecting a recovery that will take months if not years. A website has been set up to raise money to benefit the family through their recovery.

In honor of The Nielson's we have decided to donate Gracie's pirate Halloween costume from last year, to the NieNie Benefit Sale. Stephanie's favorite month is October and her favorite holiday is Halloween, so we thought that it would be appropriate. Also Stephanie loves handmade goodies... she would love this costume!

Please keep this family in your thoughts and prayers. To find out other ways to help as well as updates on the family, please visit her sister Courtney's blog.

Stephanie's Blog: http://www.nieniedialogues.blogspot.com

Updates on the Nielson's - Stephanie's sisters blog: http://www.cjanerun.com

Ways to Help - Nie Recovery: http://www.nierecovery.com

only 4 more days till i get my Sister Fix

2008-08-25T10:20:00.000-07:00

My little sister is flying out for a visit... Mikey Mike too.

We can't wait!!!