Haiku Babies

Disney World 2012!

2012-02-07T22:25:00.000-08:00

During our trip to Florida, we got the chance to visit Disney World in Orlando! We spent two days there, one night at Downtown Disney and then an entire day at the Magic Kingdom. Be warned: this post contains a zillion pictures!

Downtown Disney

Hangin' around Downtown.

Trying out the bongos.

Bongo Baby!

Bongo Babe!

She's such a big girl!

What a beauty.

Aurora makes Shirley bashful.

There was a huge mat for remote control cars. Richard LOVED them. He laughed and screeched the whole time.

This young man was so sweet to Richard.
He helped him steer the cars.

Running the race cars with Daddy.

Mickedy Mouse!

Magic Kingdom

Waiting to meet the princesses. Verrrry nervous.

Too bashful to meet Cinderella.

Equally shy for Belle. Not Richard, though!

Aurora won Richard's heart.

Everyone waiting in line was laughing at Richard, but I couldn't see what he was doing. I guess now I know.

We LOVE the carousel at the Magic Kingdom.

Richard kept saying, "Yee! Haw! Yee! Haw!"

It's a Small World.

Princess Shirley.

VERY excited to meet Tinkerbell.

Meeting Rosetta.

Having a heart-to-heart with Tinkerbell.

Look at Shirley's face!

Friends forever.

Teacups!

Winnie the Pooh is mesmerizing.

Waiting our turn to drive!

Shirley even got a driver's license to race around the track!

The Richards were hot on our tail!

The fam.

Daddy and the Princess!

My Goofy family!

Try again.

Nope. Not quite.

Not even close.

Gotcha!

Alligator Farm!

2012-02-06T20:22:00.000-08:00

We had the chance to visit our family in Florida last month and had a wonderful time soaking up the warm weather and vitamin D. While we were there, we visited an the St. Augustine Alligator Farm. It was a very bizarre experience, and while they kids had a great time, I can't honestly say that I'm looking forward to repeating the experience any time soon.

I wish you could hear Richard's shrieks of joy! He LOVED the baby alligators.

Checking out more baby gators with Uncle Wayne.

This albino alligator creeped me out in a major way.

Seriously.
Richard loved it.

Feeding time!

Big smiles from the Rainbow Princess!

Checking out a "real" alligator.

Family photo next to Maximus, who measures 16 feet!

Richard's First Haircut!

2012-01-02T13:34:00.000-08:00

I finally broke down and took Richard to get his hair cut this morning. Since his sister completely freaked out, I expected the same from him, but he did great! He only tried to shrink away from the stylist when she combed his hair, and giggled and giggled when she pulled out the clippers. I am so proud of my big kid! He is truly not a baby anymore!

Not too sure about this big chair...

A nice shot of the hockey hair.

He kept leaning forward to get away from that comb of hers!

Such a good boy!

Hairy lollies!

Are we almost done?

What a handsome boy!!

A Christmas Eve Conversation

2011-12-29T20:45:00.000-08:00

E: Do you know how much God loves you?
SJ: No.
E. He loves you a thousand, million more times than Mama or Daddy ever could.
SJ: I didn't know that!
-a moment later-
SJ: Mom? God loves me, but He loves you, too.

Baneena Dance

2011-12-03T20:54:00.000-08:00

Shirley Jean is enrolled in a Broadway Babies dance class near our home. She absolutely LOVES it! I am so proud of her to see her learning how to control her body and follow direction from her instructors--direction that is different from what she is getting in preschool. I think these things will serve her well later in life. Shirley just loves "baneena dance" and can't wait to go every Thursday morning. I am so full of pride watching her dance and I know she loves to feel like a beautiful dancer.

All set to go!

I bribe Richard with snacks during her class. It works.

Watching sissy on the monitor.

SJ was the only student in class this day.
She got special one-on-one time with her teacher.

Thumbs up!

Showing off some moves.

We LOVE dance class!!

Christmas Cookies!

2011-12-01T15:28:00.000-08:00

Yes, Shirley is wearing her favorite night gown
(she put it on just for this occasion).
Yes, Richard is pantless.
Merry Christmas!

S is for...

"I vant to suck your blooooood!"

School Pictures

2011-11-22T10:56:00.000-08:00

Sibling love.

They offered to do pictures of the student's siblings. How could I refuse?

They had Shirley laughing so hard, she couldn't keep her eyes open

I'm so proud of my big kids!

Happy (?) Halloween!

2011-11-01T12:48:00.000-07:00

While planning Shirley and Richard's costumes this year, I asked Shirley if she wanted to be a ballerina because she loves her dance classes so much. She looked at me as if I had grown another head and said, "No, Mom. I AM a ballerina." Silly me. No costume needed.
Let's just say I'm glad we are done with Halloween for another year. The children looked great in their costumes, and we had a very nice time trick-or-treating with our neighbor friends for approximately 59 minutes. In the 60th minute of our adventure at the opposite end of the street, Shirley had a complete meltdown and had to be carried home by Daddy.
Richard's night started out a little rough...I think he was scared of his costume, but once he figured out that all he had to do was wave and people would hand him candy, he buzzed all over the neighborhood. At the first house, the man opened the door to greet us and Richard just walked right in! The man said, "Wait! I'm giving things away--I'm not taking anything!" After that, it was smooth sailing.
I'm sure next year will be just as "fun," if not more.

Butterfly Girl

Sad Bumble

Candied Bumble

p.s. Due to the post-ToT meltdown, I couldn't get any better pictures of Shirleygirl. Disappointed.

I love you!

2011-10-05T20:08:00.000-07:00

If this doesn't make you smile...

School Girl!

2011-09-10T20:44:00.000-07:00

Shirley Jean had her first day of school this week. She is attending preschool near our home. It was hard to leave her there because it was clear that she was nervous once we got there, but we forced ourselves to walk away.
I was so relieved to return two hours later to learn that she absolutely loved it! She didn't want to leave!
Here are some pictures from our preparation leading up to school and her first day.

Getting acquainted at the preschool open house.

Modeling her new school haircut.

This is the picture we chose for SJ's cubby bucket.

"Mama, I need to take a picture for my journal."
I couldn't have been more proud!

The finished cubby bucket!

The morning of the first day.
Yes, she is eating a cookie after breakfast.
SJ was very nervous and didn't want her photo taken.

All ready for school!

Very proud of her bucket!

Outside the school!

Shirley and one of her teachers, Mrs. B.

You may notice that Shirley is wearing a silver heart necklace with her special "First Day" dress. We went shopping together and picked out the necklace and matching earrings. I wore the earrings and Shirley wore the necklace. The necklace is to remind her that no matter where she is, how she is feeling or what she is doing, she is loved by her Mama and Daddy. I told her to touch it and remember we are at home loving her if she felt nervous during her first day at school.

Forgiveness in the Van

2011-08-16T18:38:00.000-07:00

Riding in the car last week, Shirley and I got in some sort of an argument. We went back and forth with "I said NO." "Well, I said YES." Until I finally put the kaibosh on the whole situation, reminding her (without losing my temper, though nearly) that I am the mother and what I say goes.

We were quiet for a few minutes, letting the steam out of the van, when Shirley said, "Mama, I have sin in my heart."

It took everything I had to not reply, "YES. YOU. DO."

Instead, we both asked each other for forgiveness and drove onward and upward.

Daddy's Little Headbanger

2011-08-12T13:59:00.000-07:00

At the Beach

2011-07-30T22:02:00.000-07:00

Photog

2011-07-25T23:20:00.000-07:00

Somebody got ahold of mommy's camera...There are lots of clues...

But I just can't figure out who it could be!

Kissing

2011-07-20T10:54:00.000-07:00

Last night, after I read to Shirley and prayed with her and tucked her into bed, she said, "Mama, give me a kiss." Since she's been so stingy with her kisses lately I didn't want to miss the opportunity. She leaned in to kiss me with her eyes closed and kissed me for five full seconds turning her head back and forth. When she was done I said, "Wow! That was quite the kiss! Who kisses like that?" I tried so hard not to laugh because I didn't want to hurt her feelings and I fully expected her to say Cinderella or something like that.
No.
She said, "Yorn and Rine!"

So there you have it.

Nebraska!

2011-07-06T13:18:00.000-07:00

After leaving Des Moines, we drove the second leg of our journey to Lincoln where my aunt, cousins and grandmother live. We had a wonderful time playing with cousins, going to the zoo, the splash park, and visiting Great-Grandma's new apartment. We had such a wonderful time with our loved ones that I can't wait to go back...even if it means another road trip!

Ice cream with Great Grandma.
On our first day there, we visited the Lincoln Children's Zoo, and had a fantastic time!

On the train!
We got to take pony rides at the zoo. When asked if that sounded fun, Shirley said, "YEAH! I WANNA RIDE THE PURPLE ONE!!!"
She was very, very serious during the entire ride.Checking out the jungle gym.
Flamingos with Grandma.
Butterfly Girl.
In the butterfly sanctuary.

Trying to hold butterflies.

Trying.
And trying.
Stroller man communes with goats.

The zoo is exhausting.

On the second day, we visited the splash park and had a blast. Shirley had so much fun, I couldn't even get a picture of her!

Splash park!

Busy boy.

Des Moines Water Park

2011-07-06T13:08:00.000-07:00

Our family took a big road trip last week. We drove to Lincoln, Nebraska to visit family and celebrate the Fourth of July together. From there, Richard drove to Colorado to go on a hiking manly bonding trip with the men in our family while the girls stayed in Lincoln.
On our way down, we stopped in Des Moines, Iowa and spent the night at a water park.

Hi, Mom!!!

Christmas Card? I think not.

I'm so cold!

Fun times.

Zoo Day!

2011-06-27T11:00:00.001-07:00

This giraffe has a sign that says not to climb...yet everyone does, and everyone takes pictures.

Getting comfy in the stroller.

Waiting to see Sparky the Seal.

Snacks and Sparky.

More walking. Richard thought walking on this slippery surface (it rained on us all day) was SO FUN! He kept throwing himself on the ground intentionally. He was completely soaked by the time I put him back in the stroller. Good thing our zoo visit was over!

He walks!

2011-06-24T13:08:00.000-07:00

Richard actually took his first steps several months ago, but has refused to walk all this time. We have been waiting and waiting for him to take the plunge and last week he finally did!
He's started getting very brave and actually walking more than he crawls. These milestones are so bittersweet. I just love the "drunk Frankenstein" baby steps, though. I will miss them (next week) when he is running around chasing his sister with sticks.

Sorry for my lame video commentary. Am I ever going to learn?

But, butt, bottom.

2011-06-22T10:18:00.000-07:00

Erin: Shirley Jean, you leave that cat alone.
SJ: But. But...
E: No "but." Leave him alone.
SJ: No, Mama! It's a BOTTOM. Don't say that butt-word.

Richard the Builder

2011-06-12T22:29:00.001-07:00

We've been working day and night on some major yard and deck projects, and Richard wants to be just like his daddy!
These pictures are just too cute not to post.

It's all about Shirley.

2011-05-20T12:36:00.000-07:00

This morning Shirley found ultrasound pictures from my pregnancy with Richard. I sat down to show her the images. I said, "Here is his face, his nose, see his fist? Here is his foot."
On the final picture she pointed to Richard's squiggly profile and said, "And here is my hair. It is so long and beautiful, Mama. Like Rapunzel."
I said, "Yes! Yes it is."

Princess Loves Me

2011-05-09T09:40:00.000-07:00

It's hard to argue with that.

2011-05-04T15:43:00.001-07:00

Shirley: Oh, hi, Dad.
Erin: Shirley, his name is Dad-DY.
Shirley: No, his name is Richard.

Laundry Basket Rides!

2011-05-03T11:51:00.000-07:00

Clown Face

2011-05-02T13:55:00.000-07:00

Last week, we got together with our friends over at DoW. We foolishly thought the girls could play on their own for seven minutes, but we were wrong. This is what we fould when they emerged from the bedroom. Sophia exclaimed, "Mama! I helped ShirleyJean look like a clown!"
Holy gasp!
Honestly, it was one of those parenting moments where I didn't know whether to laugh or cry...so I laughed til I cried. After all, was any real damage done? Nah. She still has all her hair, and it was "washable" marker, so, I will joyfully explain to strangers that no, the remaining marker around her eyes and hairline is not bruising...just markers "clown make up."

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Happy Easter!

2011-05-02T13:24:00.001-07:00

Strike a pose. Checking out her Easter gifts from Grandma K.
Showing Great-Grandma her fuzzy shoes.
Dapper Dude.

Grandma B made these sweet collages of the kids from our Easter party with them.

So sweet!

Easter Goodies

2011-05-02T13:11:00.000-07:00

Lots and lots of cooking and baking happened over Easter weekend. Here are some of my favorite food creating pictures from the weekend.

Shirley always insists on "closing her ears" when the mixer is running. Uh oh...
Did she just double dip? More tasting.
Richard made Scotch eggs for the family. Yum! Helping set the table for our magnificent feast.

Friend Birthday Party

2011-05-02T12:53:00.000-07:00

Oops! I can't believe I forgot to post pictures from the FRIEND birthday party we hosted for Shirley and Richard at the beginning of April. We invited all their friends to party with us at an indoor playground near our home. This sampling of pictures gives a good feel for how much fun we had.

That's enough birthday parties for 2011. Agreed?

Richard and the Purple Crayon

2011-04-07T14:02:00.000-07:00

Resemble, much?

Easel Fun

2011-04-07T13:45:00.001-07:00

Last week we bought Shirley and Richard this multi-purpose easel to play with. It has been a huge hit, and the source of a lot of fun. I am sad to say, though, that I've had to take the chalk away since I took these pictures. The pieces become choking hazards too easily when they break and chalky fingerprints are a real pain in the rear! They still use it with a big roll of paper and crayons, though.

Snack time?

I couldn't believe it when Richard pulled himself up and started coloring! He's so smart!

Urp.

Children's Museum!

2011-04-07T13:10:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago, we got to go to the Children's Museum with our friends Sarah and Natalie. We had a wonderful time!

Making Paper

Natalie makes paper-making fun!

We are very excited!

Bubbles!

Selfy.

Figuring out the conveyor belts.

Makin' it work.

Paper or plastic?

Post-Bath Snuggle Time

2011-04-07T12:49:00.000-07:00

This progression of photos cracks me up:

Richard's (actual) First Birthday

2011-03-29T21:35:00.000-07:00

Richard turns ONE today!

Here is our boy enjoying some of his favorite things: meatballs and peas.

The BIG One.

Cute. "Oooooh!"

Richard needed some "help" blowing out his candle.

THIS! IS! SO! EXCITING! CAAAAAAKE!!!!

"I'll help you, brother."

Not too sure about ripping paper...

Richard has been making this face a lot lately--he's figuring out his new TOP teeth. :)=

LOVING the blocks from Mama and Daddy!

Bedtime for Birthday Boy!

Shirley's (actual) Third Birthday

2011-03-29T21:15:00.000-07:00

For Shirley's actual birthday on the 18th, we all packed up and went to the Mall of America, where we ate Chinese food and went on some rides. (Did you know that if you sign up at nickelodeonuniverse.com, your child can have an unlimited rides armband on their birthday?) Please enjoy these pictures from our celebration of her birth!

Showing off her special outfit.

"Daddy, I got a map." Riding the carousel!

The Richards. Hanging out. Richard has been anxiously waiting until Shirley was tall enough to take her on the log flume. He thought it would be so fun! I waited with trepidation, until... ...I saw this. Shirley LOVED the log flume. She DANCED her way to tell me all about it. It was so adorable that (as Shirley and Daddy headed toward the line to go again) a stranger approached me to tell me that my daughter was "to die for cute." I can't help but agree. Once we made it home, we had to have some cupcakes! Finally, sleeping beauty passed out nose to nose with Bambi...and her favorite gift.

Happy Birthday Richard and Shirley!

2011-03-24T00:26:00.001-07:00

Family Birthday Party!

2011-03-23T23:59:00.001-07:00

Last week we hosted an early birthday party for Shirley and Richard with our family members who live nearby. We had a wonderful time celebrating our children's births and their sweet additions to our lives. I admit, I spent the day fighting back tears as I thought about how much my babies have grown. It was a wonderful day, though, full of laughter and joy. Here are pictures from our day (Be prepared. There are a lot...I can't choose just a few):

The Name Game

2011-03-14T21:53:00.000-07:00

Erin: What's your name?
Shirley: Shirley!
E: How old are you?
S: I'm FREE!
E. What's your last name?
S: Um, free?
E: Day-vuh-jay.
S: Blah-dee-bloo.
E: What's your name?
S: Shirley!
E: What's your last name?
S: FREE!
E: Day-vuh-jay.
S: Blar-dee-blar.
E: Day-vuh-jay.
S: Bloop-bee-blop.
E: How old are you?
S: FREE!
E: What's your last name?
S: Day-shay!

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-03-07T13:52:00.000-08:00

I figure if I get this posted before St. Patrick's Day, it still counts.
First thing on the morning of Valentine's Day, I said to Shirley, "Happy Valentine's Day, Shirley! I love you." She responded by saying, "Happy Birthday, Mama! I yuff you! I WANT CHOCOLATE AND PRESENTS!"
Shirley Jean LOVED Valentine's Day. I mean, "Happy Natalie Day!" or "Happy Ballumtimes Day!" or "Happy Birthdaytimes Day!" It's really fun to teach her about different holidays and see her enthusiasm for every new thing she learns.

Making "Ballumtimes Day!" for Daddy and Richard.

Lovey selfie. Opening valentines from Daddy.
Playing with Richard's special valentine gift from Daddy.

It's genetic.

2011-03-07T13:14:00.000-08:00

My children must destroy paper.

First Crush

2011-02-22T11:06:00.000-08:00

"Mama! There's Peter Pan!" Shirley sighed, "Oh, Mama, I YUFF him. He FLIES."

Thank you! Thank you!

2011-02-09T12:45:00.000-08:00

This morning, Shirley told me she was "Gonna DROW UP!" and that she needed a bucket right away. She had the hiccups and I think she sincerely believed she might throw up. So, I got her out a bucket and she leaned over it as if she expected something to happen. When nothing did happen, she put the bucket on her head and wore it most of the day bowing and saying, "Thank you! Thank you!" I think she thinks it's a top hat. She is nothing if not resourceful.

Play Time!

2011-02-08T13:56:00.001-08:00

A mall near our house has a pretty nice indoor playground that has been a life saver over the course of this VERY cold winter. Last week we went twice! Here are some cute pictures I got while we were there.

Squirrelly Shirley

2011-02-08T13:49:00.000-08:00

Ignore the caption.

2011-01-31T11:27:00.000-08:00

This picture is totally true...if you imagine that instead of a pretty dress, I'm still wearing my nightgown. At 4pm.

Telling Secrets

2011-01-30T14:41:00.000-08:00

Baby Jail

2011-01-25T13:01:00.001-08:00

Nobody knows...the trouble I've seen... Nobody knows...my sorrow.

Nobody knows...the trouble I've seen.
Glory, Hallelujah.
Look at Shirley in the background. She really thinks she's in jail. Poooooor Shirley.

Shirley!

2011-01-24T13:18:00.000-08:00

Shirley, Shirley. Oh, my Shirley.
If Richard is my pride and joy, Shirley Jean is the apple of my eye. Has there ever been a two (almost three) year old so beautlful? So intelligent? So independent? So lovely? So sweet? So loving? Never.
My Shirley girl changes every day. Her vocabulary has exploded in the last six weeks and she is now constructing four or five word sentences such as, "I can't sleep right now." "I canna do it myself." "I need another one, please." "I'm still dry, see?" "I canna do the light!"
Shirley loves her brother. Usually. She loves it that he is starting to wave, and will frequently say wave to him while saying, "Hey, buddy!" She is also a very good helper with him. She will bring me a diaper or nukie and will often try to comfort him when he cries.
Shirley's favorite activities include coloring, painting, singing, dancing, watching Curious George, reading ANY book, praying, snuggling, bathing and cooking. Her current favorite book is "How do I love you?" She has the whole book nearly memorized and re-tells to me at random times. The other day she said, "Mama, I love you like blue days." The actual line from the book reads, "I love you like the sun loves the bright blue days." Close enough for me! Her other absolute favorite book is called, "God Lives in My House." Every time we finish reading it, she tells me, "God lives in my heart, Mama." These are the things I will always remember.
Shirley's favorite foods are spaghetti, noodles with butter, macaroni and cheese, strawberry-banana smoothies, apples, cheese, bananas, pork, chicken, apple juice, chocolate milk and "lunch" (aka: sandwiches).
Shirley Jean LOVES other children. She loves going to the playground (indoor these days) or the nursery. She immediately jumps in and makes friends. This is a complete change from about six months ago when she screamed bloody murder when I tried to leave her in the nursery at church. Praise the Lord for answered prayers! She is very social and often asks about her friends. She particularly adores her friends that are a little bit older. Can you blame her? They're just so COOL!
Shirley loves spending time with her Grandmas and Papas and asks for them frequently. She also adores "My Lorn" and "My Rine." (Lauren and Ryan.) She loves her other aunts and uncles, but for some reason Lorn and Rine have really bonded with Shirley's heart. Every time they come over she waves goodbye saying, "Thanks for coming to my house! I LUFF you!"
Shirley's problem solving skills are pretty amazing. If she wants something off the counter, she gets her stool. If she knows Mama will say no, she asks Daddy (I suspect this will continue for a long time). If the wheels on her stroller won't turn, she tips it over to figure out why. She hides nukies so that when I take them away after naptime she will know where one is in her secret stash. (If you're wondering, her secret stash is in the oven of her play kitchen. She doesn't know that I know.) You name it...she'll try to figure it out.
Shirley knows all of her letters by sight and most of their sounds. She can count actual objects up to thirteen. After that, everything is "twenteen." She can recognize her name in writing and is starting to recognize Richard. Soon I will have to teach her her last name. Pray for us! :) She is getting pretty good at drawing a circle, but that's it so far. Of course, she knows all her animal sounds...including some pretty crazy animals like a wombat, penguin and camel. I'm not even kidding.
At this point, I am very pleased to say that Shirley is 99.7% potty trained! For the most part she even wakes up dry! I am so proud of her! She LOVES going potty, and "Doesna need help, Mama!" This is not true. She needs help, but won't admit it. Nothing spells disaster like a little girl trying to do it all herself in the bathroom. I'm just saying.
As you can probably tell, I am so proud of my princess. She has captured my heart. There will never be another Shirley.

Finger painting!

Ready for some yunch!
Miss Shirley got out of her bed at some point in the night and curled up in Daddy's clothes.

We found her like this in the morning.

Magic paint!

Richard!

2011-01-20T13:49:00.000-08:00

I guess since I've done such a lousy job of blogging in 2011 (ok, let's be honest...for most of 2010 and ALL of 2011 so far, but who's counting?), I think the best thing to do would be to give an overall update of what's been going on with the Haiku Babies.

Where to start??

I think the best place to start is with Baby Richard. What a sweetie pie my little boy is. Since I last wrote, he has become proficient at:

-Pulling himself into a sitting position (this may not seem like much, but it was a major turning point at our house!).

-Pulling himself up on everything.

-Using his new found skill of pulling up to reach for anything and everything within his little arm span that looks like it might be a.) interesting, b.) dangerous, c.) completely inappropriate for a baby.

-Crawling on all fours (though I have to admit, I miss the army crawl).

-Saying, "Hi!" (I know. I can hardly believe it myself.)

- Waving (I admit, it's more of a salute than a wave, so he's not exactly proficient, but we're working on it.).

-Scooting along the edge of the couch.

-Playing peek-a-boo with a towel or cloth diaper--all on his own! He thinks he's so funny, too.

Richard loves to eat. I have not found a food that this boy refuses to eat. He doesn't necessarily love green vegetables, but that baby bird mouth opens up for whatever I offer, no matter what. His favorite foods consist of anything orange! He loves squash, peaches, carrots and especially sweet potatoes.

He loves following his sister around and at any given chance reaches for a fistful of her hair. His hobbies include: playing in the dog water, playing in the bathroom garbage, playing with the dishwasher door, pulling the canned goods out of the pantry, begging for food and eating stickers.
He also loves music and singing and dancing. When he hears a tune he likes, he sits up and wiggles on his bottom. grooving to the music.

Richard hates having his nose wiped. It is personally offensive to him to have this done. I don't get it.

Richard is ALL BOY. He is constantly covered in bruises and scrapes. My friends assure me this is normal for boys, but I can't quite get used to it.

When he was born, I didn't know how having a boy would be different than a girl. He surprises me every day with his sweet antics and interests, and has quickly become this mama's pride and joy. We are so blessed with the calling to raise a boy. What joy Richard Joseph has brought into our home!

Point in case: Richard took a major dive a couple weeks ago and scraped up the end of his nose. I was so ashamed, we didn't leave the house for a week.

Notice the rainbow of bruises on his forehead...previous injuries. Sigh.

Enjoying a dill pickle...

Ready for breakfast!

Oh, so handsome.

Christmas 2010: Better Late Than Never

2011-01-20T13:18:00.000-08:00

Here are a few of my favorite pictures from our Christmas. It was quite the whirlwind weekend! We had our own family Christmas at home together, then we spent Christmas Eve with Richard's family, then headed to my parent's house. Shirley got to open so many gifts, she because quite the little ham by the end of the weekend. Every time somebody handed her a gift, she exclaimed, "For ME?" Next year, I hope to teach her to say, "You shouldn't have!" Baby Richard LOVED all the action of the gift opening. He would crawl around in the piles of paper and watch all the excitement around him.
We made all kinds of wonderful memories this year and I can't wait to see what next year brings. As the children get older, this only get more and more fun.

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-25T14:44:00.000-08:00

He's into everything!

2010-12-10T17:34:00.000-08:00

I have been taking photos of what Richard gets in to for the last three days. Three days, three projects.

Wednesday.

Thursday.

Friday.

Christmas Helper

2010-12-10T17:22:00.000-08:00

I didn't think trees came in boxes, Mama. This sure seems like a lot of work.

Too much Christmas.

(This was literally about ten minutes after the above photos.)

Don't worry, Shirley. I'll do it. :)

ABC's

2010-12-02T21:41:00.000-08:00

Shirley sings all the time these days. I often hear, "Twinkle, twinkle little star! How I thank you. You're welcome." I'm still trying to get that one on video. Along with "The Wheels on the Bus." (As you can imagine the wipers going "swish, swish, swish" is pert-near the cutest thing EVER.) Tonight I managed to get some great footage of Shirley singing the alphabet song.

Enjoy:

He's mature AND secure.

2010-12-02T21:31:00.000-08:00

Look who I found with a sippy cup the other day...

And Dora, no less.

He crawls!

2010-11-27T22:40:00.000-08:00

Going...

Gone!

To be fair, Richard has been "crawling" for a couple of weeks, but as of November 18, he really had the army crawl mastered.

Check out this joy.

2010-11-27T21:47:00.000-08:00

On November 13, we had our first snow here in Chilly Minne. When I showed Shirley the snow out the window, she shrieked, "MAMA!!!!! I NEED MY COAT!!!!!" So, we bundled up and two hours later (no lie), we were outside romping in the snow.

Ready to go outside!

Eh.

Checking it out.
First taste.

Second taste.

My snow angel.

Teeth!

2010-11-27T21:39:00.000-08:00

Two weeks ago, Richard cut his first tooth. Two days later, tooth number two came through.

Imagine my surprise when I suddenly had a very happy baby! Hooray for teeth!

Well. He was happer after this.

11-12-10

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-31T21:06:00.000-07:00

My Corny Candy Man.

Princess Shirley

Princess Shirley plays on the royal swings.

Viking Richard sends no text messages.

The LOOT!

Probably the best photo from Halloween.

Bath Time!

2010-10-20T14:02:00.001-07:00

Now that the little man of the house is getting better at sitting up, he LOOOOOVES bath time in his special chair.

Look at that face. Look at THAT face!

So much fun, mama!She has to try everything we get out for the Bairn. It makes for some fun pictures.

Apple Orchard

2010-10-20T13:42:00.000-07:00

Earlier this month we went to the apple orchard with some good friends. Here are some of my favorite photos from the day.

Concentrating hard on this strange swing!

Havin' a ball.

Miss Natalie, my god-daughter. I love her.

Chillin' like a villain.

Apple Cider.

We let the girls each choose an apple out of the bin. Of course, they chose the BIGGEST possible apples. Shirley did pretty well on hers...and only dropped it once. :)

David Hasselhoff.

Little Drummer Girl

2010-10-20T13:38:00.000-07:00

Shirley is TOTALLY in to drumming lately. On everything.

For the record, this is the first time our wok has ever been used.

Chef Shirley

2010-09-30T15:21:00.000-07:00

I originally wanted to take these pictures to post a cute blog about how Shirley loves helping me cook. But instead, I thought I'd show you how she now smiles for...

every

single

photo.

Many of my other friends' two-year-olds smile like this for the camera, so I have to assume it's pretty normal, and that she will outgrow it by the time it's time for senior photos. I mean, as far as I can tell, I didn't smile this way in my senior pictures...follow my logic?

Also, that first photo is classic. The stuff of future torture.

Polar Bear

2010-09-27T23:11:00.001-07:00

It wasn't untl about the fifteenth time (truly) this E.NOR.MOUS. polar bear swam up to Shirley and checked her out that she realized that he was real and that she maybe should consider being afraid. In the mean time, I got this fantastic photo.

Major Milestone

2010-09-27T22:02:00.000-07:00

Well...It's happened. My children have successfully transitioned into their "big beds." This milestone was really difficult for me (again). Richard stayed in the bassinet beside my bed much longer than Shirley ever did, despite his enormity, because I didn't want to have to battle Shirley to stay in bed when she may not--ahem--want to go to bed. So far, it hasn't really been a problem.
Well, one night comes to mind... Our bedrooms are connected by French doors. Richard put Shirley in her big bed, and came out her bedroom door. Moments later, she emerged from our bedroom door. He circled back around and put her back in her bed and came out through our room. She followed through her own bedroom door. It went on like this for a few more minutes until Richard had had enough and made his point clear. I watched the whole thing from the couch--it was like watching "Laurel and Hardy Go to Bed."
Overall, however, the whole transition has gone very well. I still have the bassinet at my bedside, though, because I miss my little boy. Isn't that silly?

I think it's important to note that SJ sleeps with her head at the wrong end of the bed--in the same direction as when she was in her crib. I think her feng shui is off, otherwise.Woke him up with the flash...oops.

At the Park

2010-09-22T13:15:00.000-07:00

We've been taking as much advantage as possible lately of the gorgeous weather outside.
Here are some great photos I got last week at the park.

He Sits!

2010-09-16T21:10:00.000-07:00

Well, mostly. :) Also, if you would kindly note: his hair has started growing in. Really.

9/14/10

Baby Richard's First Bites

2010-09-10T09:00:00.000-07:00

Two days ago, Richard got to try his first bites of rice cereal. He was NOT impressed, but I will not be thwarted. I have been unable to keep him full with breast feeding alone, and as a result, we've been sleeping in two-hour spurts through the night. Unacceptable. :)

What a big boy!

"Are you kidding me, Mom??"

Unimpressed. Unenthused.

For the record, night two went a lot better than night one. I see a lot of big meals in Richard's future.

What happened to my snuggly little infant??

2010-08-20T23:56:00.000-07:00

I know! He was replaced by the sweetest, rolliest, polliest "little" baby who rewards even the briefest eye contact with the most enormous smile.

My sweetie boy is getting big so fast!!
He has figured out that if he rolls over twice, he can change locations completely. What's even more impressive is that just yesterday, I looked up to see him up on his elbows and knees, rocking back and forth. Need I remind you, RICHARD IS ONLY FOUR! MONTHS! OLD! Granted, his head is still firmly planted on the ground, but we're not all that far off from real locomotion. I AM NOT READY FOR THIS!!

Thinking about crawling.

At his four month check up today, he weighed 17 pounds! (Just for the sake of comparison, at her four-month check, Shirley weighed 15lbs, 6oz.) Measuring at 26 inches, it is CONFIRMED: Baby Richard is enormous! I knew he was big, but I couldn't believe it when the nurse read his weight out.

Look at this tough guy:

I am so proud of my big, growing boy! I love watching him learn every day--he gets frustrated and fussy if his sister moves out of his eyeline. I assure him that next summer he'll be hitting her with a stick, just like he wants to now. Oh, I love him so. How could you NOT?

Dedication Day

2010-08-20T23:20:00.001-07:00

Dedication Day is a hard one for me. It's very difficult to stand up and say, "Ok, God. He's yours, not mine. I will do my best, but I trust you with him." Because, I'll tell you a secret: I don't really trust God. I'm trying. Believe me. But sometimes all I want to do is huddle in a corner, holding my babies close to me and protect them from everything.

Instead, we dedicate our children to God, and commit to raising them in the ways of the Lord and prayerfully nurture them, while providing for their material and spiritual needs. A tall order, no?

On July 18, 2010, we had the honor of dedicating Richard Joseph, Jr., to God, publically, in front of our church and family. What a blessing, God has given us in this sweet child.

Well, that didn't take long.

2010-08-04T16:09:00.000-07:00

Big Bird for a Big Girl

2010-08-04T10:10:00.000-07:00

Shirley Jean has had some pretty major successes on the potty lately. I told her that if she keeps going potty on the potty chair through the rest of today that we'll go to the store alone together and she can pick out whatever kind of big girl underpants she wants. I told her she could get Cinderella underpants, or Elmo, or Zoe, or Abby Cadabby, or even Nemo.

You know what she wants? She wants BIG BIRD underpants.

What do you think the odds are that I'll be able to find little girl Big Bird underpants? Pretty slim, I'd say. I'm hoping when we get to the store she'll be so excited that she'll just forget all about Big Bird.

*UPDATE*

Sure enough, as soon as we got to the store Big Bird flew out the window (haha). We came home with a package of Princess Panties, also known as "'Rella Pants-on!" Here's hoping we are one thin layer of cotton closer to success.

*UPDATE*

Shirley has peed through four of the seven pairs of underpants we bought an hour ago. Perhaps we should stop talking about going potty so much.

Jumping Johnnies

2010-07-28T21:49:00.000-07:00

Baby Richard got to try out the Johnny Jump-Up last night for the first time. Thank goodness his sister was there to help out. This is the progression of how it went. I think he likes it. Oh, wait--he had a clear view of his sister the whole time. Of course he liked it. :)

Personally, I find this video hysterical.

Of course, Shirley HAD to try it out.

I wanted to post more video of Shirley so that you all can hear "Shirley Speak."

Arts and Crafts

2010-07-27T22:46:00.000-07:00

Shirley Jean's first haircut!

2010-07-15T14:17:00.000-07:00

I took Shirley to get her very first haircut yesterday. I can't believe she's such a big girl! We went to Kids Hair where I knew they would do a great job for a first haircut. I was right! Shirley loved it because she got to watch cartoons while they cut her hair--plus they offered candy right off the bat. How can you go wrong?

Coloring while we waited our turn.

Before. Not thrilled about this new experience.
Patient brother.

Sucker number TWO.

Sucker number THREE. Plus a Slinky. Minus a shoe.

Sucker number FOUR. ...Almost done!

After.

What a beautiful (albeit irritated with Mama) little girl!

Richard Joseph

2010-07-14T21:55:00.000-07:00

Last week was a very big week for Baby Richard. On Wednesday, July 7, he rolled over for the first time. He rolled back to front, which I think means he is highly intelligent. ...Except for the fact that he tends to get high-centered and can't get back on his back, which makes him angry. Very, very angry. Then, on Thursday, he laughed! I know you will agree with me when I say: there is nothing in the world like the sound of your child's laugh. My favorite part? He has such a masculine laugh! Where Shirley used to giggle, Richard literally guffaws.

Richard absolutely loves his sister. When she is in his eyeline (which often isn't very long!), he coos and babbles to her. He finds her completely mesmerizing. When I see his love for her, I feel like my heart might literally burst out of my chest.

He is a very focused nurser. Remember how Shirley used to play games with me while she nursed? Richard will have none of that. I think it's safe to say that he is a boob man, through and through.

Richard could take or leave his pacifier, but if he has something to snuggle--a blanket, cloth diaper, or taggy blanket--he is soothed and content. He LOVES being held, and loves to be held as tight and compact as possible while being rocked to sleep. When I sing to him, he looks me right in the eye. When he smiles, he smiles with his whole body! His arms flail, his legs kick and he rolls his head back and forth to show his pleasure.

A couple weeks ago, he discovered his fingers, which are ALWAYS in his mouth. He also has discovered that he can touch and feel things with his fingers. He doesn't have a lot of control, but when he tries to touch my face, I can't help but fight the tears of happiness. When Daddy nibbles Richard's tummy, he grabs Daddy's ears as if to say, "Stop it! Don't stop! Stop it!"

My sweet boy is growing so fast--we couldn't be more proud. (Can you tell?)

We are publically dedicating Richard Joseph to God at the 10:30 service at church this weekend. We would be truly honored if you wanted to join us for the very special service.

Here is Mr. Richard showing off one of his many skills: rolling over and screaming his head off!

Where's Shirley?!

2010-07-14T21:50:00.000-07:00

There she is!

Hanging Laundry

2010-07-14T21:44:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I have a helper when I'm hanging laundry on the line.Aren't we cute?

Where's Shirley?

2010-07-14T21:41:00.000-07:00

...Probably hanging out in the dog bed.

He Rolls!

2010-07-14T21:34:00.001-07:00

...and everyone is very excited.

7/8/10

Just Like Mama

2010-07-14T21:22:00.000-07:00

Seeing my little girl develop her skills as a caretaker makes me so proud and happy. My prayer for her is that she will grow to be a wonderful wife and mother--I'm glad she's getting some practice now!

Happy Fourth of July!

2010-07-09T19:41:00.000-07:00

Over the Fourth this year, we had a little staycation. We spent time at the beach and with friends. We worked on no major projects and even turned off the television from time to time. (Don't worry--we still watched plenty of "George, Mama?" And "Puppies, Mama?")

Shirley: all decked out to go to the "Beach, Mama?"

My cousin sent her this hat, scarf and mitten set, surely for this winter. Yes, she is wearing the whole set with her bathing suit. Shirley is nothing if not prepared.

The Bairn, enjoying the shade. Clearly.
The Sand Princess.

All she needs is a bucket and a shovel.
See?
On the Fourth, we went to a pool party at some friends' house.

Shirley loved the water so much, she stayed in until she literally turned blue.
Enjoying some "sming" with Daddy and "Uncle" Nate.

Here's a little gem for ya:

2010-07-06T12:26:00.000-07:00

6/22/10

Father's Day

2010-07-06T12:04:00.000-07:00

For Father's Day this year, we kept things pretty low key (besides the family reunion, that is!). We had a nice dinner and went to church together.

Here is Shirley, coloring her card for Daddy.

And Baby Richard got to sit up and look around in honor of his Daddy.

6/20/10

Family Reunion

2010-07-06T11:55:00.000-07:00

At the end of June, Richard's grandparents came to visit from California. It was so much fun to introduce them to Baby Richard and show off how much Shirley Jean has grown since we last saw them in January.

6/19/10

So Much to Say!

2010-07-02T11:32:00.000-07:00

This little boy has a lot to say! Here are some cute pictures I took while he "told me all about it."

6/16/10

The Playground Duo

2010-07-02T11:20:00.000-07:00

Venturing out to the park is no small feat for us. I am getting more brave, though, and less afraid that something terrible will happen, so I try to take Shirley Jean and Richard to the park near our house a couple times a week.

Shirley cheers for the other kids who come down the slide. It brings tears to my eyes when I see her little encouraging self developing. I often wonder if I'm getting a glimpse of her spiritual gifts at this young age. Ok, it does more than bring tears to my eyes. It makes me want to WEEP.

I think it's really cool that I have pictures of SJ in this same swing from the last three summers.

I like this picture because you can see Baby Richard in the background. :)

Baby Richard loves the park, too. There are so many new noises and smells and things to see. The trees, the other children, the breezes, the kids playing and screaming down at the beach. Both children sleep for hours after a trip to the park!

6/16/10

Takiative Boy

2010-07-01T14:50:00.000-07:00

Baby Richard has started "talking." It started about a month ago. I LOVE to hear his contented sighs and exuberant coos. Here, also, are some funny pictures I took of him in his swing. Getting a picture of him smiling is getting increasingly difficult because the red light on my camera that shines before the flash goes off is completely mesmerizing. Apparently.

6/16/10

Painting

2010-06-30T14:18:00.001-07:00

Shirley Jean LOVES painting ("painking").

Here are some cute pictures from earlier this month.

6/9/10

Two Month Check

2010-06-30T13:56:00.000-07:00

Baby Richard had is two month Well Baby checkup at the beginning of this month. (Better late than never, right??)

I was thrilled to learn that he weighed 13lbs, 4oz (81.66%)! He gained over a pound in two weeks (we had to go to the doctor for another issue two weeks earlier and at that time he weighed 12lbs, 2oz)! At that time he was also 23 inches long (50%) with a head circumfrence of 16 inches (64%).

Here are the pictures I took that day:

6/2/10

Memorial Day Weekend

2010-06-23T22:27:00.000-07:00

We had sort of a crazy Memorial Day weekend. It started out by spending a large portion of Friday in the Emergency Room. We were getting ready to go to my parents' house in Wausau and Shirley was very excited about the adventure. She was running around the living room and tripped on a footstool. She "caught" herself with her face...on the edge of the coffee table. :( Long story short, she ended up with two stitches underneath her eyebrow. It has now fully healed and they say it won't scar--I hope this is true. My little girl is so beautiful. I don't want her to be scarred. I know there are things more important than beauty, but still... The pediatrician said that by the time she is old enough to wear makeup, there won't be anything to cover up.

I have not blogged about this until now, because, in truth, I wasn't sure I wanted to remember it. I was very, very upset by the incident. Still am, actually...but...since this is, in essence, my children's baby book, I feel like I should record it for prosperity's sake. I intended to take pictures of her scar, but couldn't bring myself to do it.

Richard took this picture in the ER on his phone. It's not very good, but you get the idea:She's smiling...of course.

Here are the only other two pictures I took over the holiday weekend. What they lack in quantity, they definitely make up for in quality.

More "a-couch" snuggle time.

SJ is not as miserable as she looks in this photo--just tired from a big day at Grandma and Papa's house.

Shirley Senior spent the weekend with us in Wausau.

It was wonderful having her as a part of the festivities.

Shirley-girl really loves her namesake.

5/30/10

Security

2010-06-23T22:19:00.000-07:00

Someone told me once that when a baby sleeps like this, with his arms up, it's because he feels secure and loved.

I don't know if that's true or not. I guess I don't care--it's a nice thing to believe.

5/26/10

Bubble Blowin' Fool

2010-06-23T22:09:00.000-07:00

Shirley Jean really thinks she's living when she goes to the other side of the yard.

She must feel like she's on a safari.

No, she is not wearing pants (in the traditional sense). Any mother who has potty-trained will understand.

I literally have 25 pictures of her sitting on fence like this. It takes a lot of concentration to blow bubbles.

5/26/10

Awful Dress!

2010-06-23T22:02:00.001-07:00

Shirley Jean LOVES dresses. Most days, I ask her which beautiful dress she wants to wear. Usually she ends up changing her mind a couple times a day.

One day I was getting her ready to go to Richard's softball game and she said, "Awful dress, Mama. Awful dress. Mama! Awful dress! Yook! Awful dress!"

I said, "No! Your dress is BEAUTIFUL!"

She said, "Yeah! Awful!"

Here she is, modeling one of her current favorite "awful dresses," with a shirt as a headdress--of course. This photo just takes my breath away.

5/24/10

Tummy Time!

2010-06-23T21:56:00.000-07:00

5/6/10

Snuggle Time

2010-06-23T21:51:00.000-07:00

Shirley LOVES to snuggle on "a-couch," with her brother. This photo is from May 4.

Sigh...

2010-06-10T13:08:00.000-07:00

According to a quick blog search, Shirley Jean has demolished paper products on:

March 10, 2009

March 18, 2009

July 11, 2009

I guess I get what I deserve when I set her up to read a bed time story in my bed and then get distracted in the kitchen. At least Post-It flags are cheap. (Sense the TONE.)

That dog won't hunt.

2010-05-25T13:56:00.000-07:00

Around six weeks of age (over Mother's Day), ALL of Richard's hair fell out. Well...almost all of it. I now have a Dr. Phil baby.

I'm disappointed, because I don't feel like these photos do the hairloss justice...his hair LITERALLY fell out over 48 hours. It fell out in clumps between my fingers and I found it in his bassinet, swing and bouncy chair. Talk about disconcerting.

I do wonder, though, if this is a preview of what he will look like in 50+ years...

I plan to give these photos to his wife so that she can compare. :)

I have to say, the funniest thing related to this male pattern baldness preview is that I sent a text message to my girlfriends that said, "All of Richard's hair is falling out! Over night!"

Two out of three of my friends wrote back and said, "Which Richard?"

Still makes me laugh out loud.

Accessorize!

2010-05-25T13:51:00.000-07:00

It's important to accessorize with every outfit.

Jungle Gym

2010-05-20T12:45:00.000-07:00

I got out the Jungle Gym for Richard Joseph since we have an infant in the house again. But...you know how it goes when there's a new toy in the room...

Everybody has to try it out!