Tea with London

Little Cowgirl

2012-02-03T08:54:00.000-08:00

Little Superheroes

2012-02-03T08:52:00.000-08:00

What could be better than two little hot cocoa drinking batmen, bonding over Star Wars?

Yeah, that's what I thought.

Providing a safe haven for fairies since 2012

2012-02-03T08:22:00.000-08:00

Even though this has been a mild and fair weathered winter, you never know when a fairy might be in need of a respite.

And I couldn't think of a better way to spend a 65 degree afternoon............

than constructing a fairy hostel with my enthusiastically involved five year old.
The plan:

-It has a hanging part

-Lots of decorative flowers must be involved, because fairies will only use it if it is pretty.

-It must hang well away from any spider webs that may be occupying the window well. Because spider webs are also universally known to be a fairy deterrent.
Our finished fairy hideout,
and one happy little girl.
Who knew a window well could become so enchanting? I have a feeling this is just the beginning. :)

The Perils of Winter, Water Parks, and Two-year-old Boys, a short story

2012-01-19T13:35:00.000-08:00

I'm fairly certain, that for every mother who has small children at home, winter can become rather long, tedious, and completely obnoxious. I find that the longer we are trapped inside with one another, the more unkind our words become, the faster our tempers flare and bad behavior seems to escalate exponentially.

So, in an effort to counter this mid- January behavior curse, I thought I would take my two lovely children to our local YMCA's indoor water park.

Part One: Getting Out the Door or Giving Yourself Heart Palpitations

As a fellow mother of young ones, you will also be able to empathize with the amount of effort on your part when it come to such excursions. Swim suits, towels, swim bags, clean clothes, goggles and other swimming necessities that are nicely packed away since this is clearly not the season for swimming, de-tangling of hair (for those of you with girls), last minute "I'm hungrys", bathroom accidents on the kitchen counter (for those of you with toddler boys-who seem to be on top of something when they have an accident, or I guess at any given time during the day), putting on, and re-putting on of jackets, herding to the car, buckling of car seat belts, whining about the tightness of the seat belts, adjusting the seat belts and making sure that you yourself are clothed, suddenly realizing that you haven't shaved in what feels like months, simultaneously not caring, and clutching some form of caffeinated beverage, as if the loss of it might actually be life threatening (I'm not so sure it wouldn't be).

Now we are off and ready to expel that energy that so desperately needs an outlet. This is my excuse as to why I don't get up early to exercise, by the way.

Every time we make it to this point I always ask myself two questions "Why?" and "Why?" And I usually draw a blank, so I just drive away in an "I don't know what I'm doing but I know that I am now committed so just keep moving, or driving, or whatever action I am currently engaged in."

Just a side note-I've always wanted to make out a detailed list of what our days look like, housework and all, but thinking through it again just makes me feel the fatigue all over again, so I haven't. And probably won't. Yes, definitely won't be doing that.

So, on to the pool.

Part Two: The Pool

We managed to make it into the pool, having successfully navigated through the locker room, changing room, and bathroom and we're finally having a lovely time, splashing around in the water, that is, until I see that unmistakable, "I'm having a bowel movement on top of the slide, and there's nothing you can do to stop it" expression on my son's face. Did I mention I am potty training? I didn't think so. I tend to try and forget about it as much as physically possible. I don't know how many times I have mentioned to my youngest that he needs to tell me when he needs to make a visit to the potty, but apparently to no avail. So I make that desperate dash to the slide, the one where you know you need to move faster but the law of physics and 2 feet of water prevent you from doing so. I reach him just as he's finishing up and say the standard, "Did you go poo- poo in your pants?", with all the patience that being in a public place pulls out of you. After a slight nod from him confirming that he has, indeed pooed in his pants, I proceed to pick my son up, cupping the lump of excrement in his swim trunks with my free hand, so that it doesn't inadvertently slip out of the leg of his pants down the water slide and into the water below. Does anyone know how difficult it is to carry your son, and trying to make sure his poop doesn't slip out of his shorts while looking all nonchalant? "There's nothing to see here people, just a routine trip to the bathroom, no retaining of poop going on here." How do you do that inconspicuously? Total concealment fail.

Part 3- The Bathroom

I proceed to walk as fast as humanly possible and lock ourselves into the nearest family bathroom. I don't think I should share all the horrible details of what happens next, although if you have read this far you might be able to stomach it.

But I will say this, never. ever. ever. try to rinse off soiled swim trunks in a public bathroom sink; even if you think everything has been disposed of. Never.

So I'm about to tend to Noble, who is patiently waiting for me to clean him off, when I notice that the family bathroom sink is clogging. I try and rake my hand across the drain and see if there are any bits that are preventing the flow of water, but no. It is definitely clogged. Thank goodness for my previous work experience at the veterinary clinic and zoo. Who knew it would prepare me for motherhood so well? An intense, but brief moment of panic set in as I quickly scanned the small room to see what I could use to get the water out of the sink basin, because there was no way I was leaving that bathroom with a sink full of poop water. I don't know if it was stubborn pride or propelling fear, but I was going to leave that bathroom in the state I found it in. No matter what.

As I glanced around the room I spotted the trash can, clean and unused, by the door. I removed the liner, and brought it over to the sink where I scooped out handful after handful of murky water. I have a new found hatred of those sinks that are sensory activated, because whenever I seemed to be making headway, I would accidentally trigger the blasted helpful thing and it would fill up all over again. I must have been praying for patience in my sleep, because this allowed about as much opportunity as potty training a two year old boy.

After what felt like an eternity, and several trips to the commode, success! The sink was empty, and clean, I even managed to soap up, rinse out and dry the trash can before returning it to its rightful place by the door. All that was left was my son, who I hoped gained some important lessons from watching the chaotic and I'm sure damaging scene unfolding in front of him.

We returned to the pool, even though poor Noble completely lost any interest in swimming, and tried to spend a few minutes just pretending to be normal, all the while I was secretly praying that the sink would miraculously unclog itself and I would not have to notify an employee that I accidentally clogged one of there sinks up with poo.

After we headed back in to shower/dry off /change, I meekly made my way back to the bathroom to see if my prayers had been answered, or if in fact I would be humbly seeking out some assistance. And miracles of miracles, the sink appeared to be Perfectly. Fine. I let the water run and it slipped down the drain like, well, an unclogged drain. I was relieved, surprised, confused, thankful, not convinced, convinced, and enthusiastically happy.

What did I learn from this experience?

Never leave the house to go swimming in January.

Never trust your 2 1/2 yr. old that is doing 'well' potty training to not poop in public.

My kids are never too old for swim diapers.

Never engage in any activity in the middle of winter that involves me wearing a swim suit.

If your planned activity is going to help your kids get rid of some energy, it will nearly kill you.

You can never have too much caffeine.

The is no such thing as a sanitary surface in the YMCA. My sincerest apologies for tainting any future experiences you may have there.

Miracles do happen.

My experiences today will give me perspective tomorrow. (When London (or Noble) says her kids are driving her insane, I will empathic ally understand and not assail her with, "Enjoy every moment, they grow up so fast." Because there are just some moments that are not meant to be enjoyed, like poop clogged sinks in public bathrooms).

If I need a good dose of humbling, God will definitely provide it.

Never underestimate the healing powers of online self deprecation.

Holiday Wonder and Cheer

2012-01-12T12:31:00.000-08:00

I think I pinned about 15 different tutorials on camera settings for photographing Christmas trees on my Pinterest account...

I didn't read a single one.

But my lack of photography skills didn't make bringing out the Christmas decorations any less fun.

And of course a visit to Santa was in order. We actually went to see him twice. I was bound and determined for my children to be wearing something that coordinated and looked 'Christmasey'.

And somehow Noble still managed to wear: ripped jeans, a hand-me-down sweatshirt that had to be at least 7 yrs. old and orange and brown tennis shoes.

But by golly, they are both wearing red.

A new tradition we started last year was going to Bradley Fair to ride around the shopping center in a horse drawn carriage.

And stand in front of the biggest Christmas tree in the state of Kansas.

And to perfect the 'hold still for the picture' little brother choke hold.

Now I'm thankful for the whole 'I don't know how to use my camera in low light with bright lights' situation. It makes the sibling abuse harder to make out.

London was all about getting her picture taken this year. It was "Over here, by these ornaments, now here-get one of me walking through the bushes looking over my shoulder, and

over here looking unaware and adorable."

And let's not forget the, 'walking down the stairs overcome with joy for the holiday season' moment.

The weather was perfect, and London of course fell instantly in love with our draft horse, which she named Hazel.
Love that girl, and this season-it brings out the best in all of us.

My Grandmother's 80th

2012-01-03T18:43:00.000-08:00

I love anything that brings my family all together;

there's laughter, silliness, consumption of large amounts of purple frosting (or something that contains an equally unmeasurable amount of sugar),

sweet moments,

and lots and lots of love.

My New Year's Resolution for 2012......

2012-01-01T18:01:00.000-08:00

Posting pics from the month (or season) in which they took place.

I felt slightly defeated when I realized I hadn't even posted pics from Halloween, come'on-it's January for heaven's sake.

And I can completely forget about remembering anything noteworthy that happened back in October thanks to the holiday haze.

So I'll just have to rely on these few photographs taken of my children on what they believe to be the most amazing day of the year (other than Christmas, but we'll get to that sometime in March-oh wait-New year's resolution-later this week then).

Fall 2011

2012-01-01T17:45:00.000-08:00

If this weren't the method by which I record all of our family's pics, this post would seem incredibly obnoxious

2011-12-15T13:13:00.000-08:00

And maybe it still is, but that's my disclaimer. All that you'll find here is an absurd amount of family pictures, which I am incredibly grateful to have, thanks to the combined efforts of good friends.

These are the type of moments I hope to remember when looking back on London and Noble's childhood, a big thanks to those who helped us capture them on film.

Year Four at the Pumpkin Patch

2011-12-11T13:17:00.000-08:00

Yep, we have been to Walter's pumpkin patch every fall since London was two years old.

And I look forward to it every year.

This year, they had a face painting station-and none of that 'flower on you cheek' business-oh no-there was some serious face art goin' on; and since Nana was with us, both children were indulged.
London was in heaven. The girl could not stop looking at herself in any reflective surface we passed by. I wish we had a picture of the moment she saw her completed face for the first time.

Sheer. Delight.
Since this was the final stop on our pumpkin patch outing Noble was beat. He nearly fell asleep while his face was being painted.

I mean he was completely relaxed. He didn't want to get off the chair when his bat was completed. That boy loves to be fiddled with in any way. This is why he also gets excited to go to: the doctor, the barber and the dentist (in the near future).
I'm already looking forward to our trip out here next fall.

Family

2011-12-07T14:14:00.000-08:00

I regret telling Taylor to move his hand because it looked 'awkward'.

This is what I got in response.

A new nomination for awkward family photos-so sorry Elizabeth, my sincerest apologies.
Sisters

Off to the Pumpkin Patch-CCA style

2011-12-07T13:42:00.000-08:00

One of the many reasons I love preschool; it encourages us (me) to go experience fun, new places that left up to my own devices (and energy level (or sometimes lack thereof)) we probably would never discover.

Apple Jack Pumpkin patch doesn't look like much from the view from K-54, but it had a lot to offer, and the rug rats (or rat babies as London says it) LOVED it.

I love the discussion going on here about which pumpkin London and Noble can agree on as the 'perfect' one.
"This one looks just about my size."
"Stop everything! I've found it!"
I also love how Noble is completely oblivious to the fact that he chose the one neon pink tricycle. If it has big wheels and he can pedal it color is of no concern.

Falling behind

2011-12-01T13:08:00.000-08:00

Now that fall is officially over, I thought I would share what we've been up to the last three months.

Painting pumpkins with a friend,

building forts outside,

Celebrating Nana's birthday at the zoo
with Honey,
Bubba (aka Caleb),
Aunt Stephanie,
and these two, who couldn't get enough of the children's zoo creek,

afternoon reading on the front porch (about monarch migration of course),

panting fall pictures,

and preparing for the onset of a cold, blustery winter.

Next up, pumpkin patch visits, family pics, and other fall happenings. :)

Butterflies, fairy hideouts, and high flyin'

2011-11-08T05:48:00.000-08:00

We had ourselves a wonderful time at the new children's botanical garden. There was so much to explore, and it didn't hurt that it was absolutely gorgeous outside.

Some of the highlights: Friendly butterflies,

Creeks to conquer,
treasure to discover,
fairy fun,
and catching some serious air.

Apparently my grandchildren are going to be named after body parts, and they're not the socially acceptable ones

2011-10-26T14:56:00.001-07:00

I did it. I summoned the courage to finally tell my children the actual scientific names of the body parts that distinguish them from one another. See, I can't even type it.

Anyway, after some quiet reflection London replied, "That's pretty.........I think I'll name my daughter that."

I knew I would regret that decision.

Introducing: Luke Skywalker

2011-10-25T19:11:00.000-07:00

Aka Walker. He's the newest furry member of the family, and we are already smitten. He runs with the kids in the backyard for as long as they can keep up, and cuddles with me anytime I sit down. Who could ask for more?

Only something that has to do with bodily functions could create this tender sibling moment

2011-09-27T04:47:00.001-07:00

The best evenings are ones spent like this

2011-09-22T04:27:00.001-07:00

This friendly little fellow visited London and Noble the evening before London's 5th birthday. In the middle of enjoying his company London folded her hands and said a little prayer thanking God for sending him and asking Him to send her a butterfly every year on her birthday.

And so did I.

Five

2011-09-11T04:08:00.000-07:00

London out with Dad for her birthday breakfast at the Good Egg.

The one thing London wanted from us-roller blades. Always wanting to try new things, that girl. I love her adventurous spirit.

Noble thought they were pretty rad too.

London and I made these 'floating' pom-poms together. The playroom is now permanently adorned with floating pink clouds. (The playroom was picked up and the train table covered in pink for the party). (:

And here was the biggest hit of the party by far:

James and I may or may not have stayed up until one getting it all ready. :)

Someone woke up early, and it wasn't the birthday girl.......

I wish you could see Noble's face, he's trying to figure why our eating area is covered in pink.

Adorable ballerina cupcake tutus brought to you by Honey. The girls LOVED them.

Now she's up,

and ready to get this party started!

A little practice performance on stage before....

Party time!

London's sweet little friends, Avery, Ali, Abbey, Jadyn, and Ellie all joined in on the fun.

The girls gave a beautiful and moving performance to "A Happy Working Song".

It was sweet.

It was magical.

And it made my heart smile.

I like the superhero grabbin' a ride on the back of the girls' barbie jeep. They didn't seem to mind.

And of course, what birthday would be complete with out two more celebrations with family?

Sweet little birthday bride. Happy happy Birthday to my precious, precious baby girl.

He hasn't been getting his fair share of blog attention

2011-08-26T11:54:00.001-07:00

So we buy him things to make sure he feels loved.

I wish I had had his reaction on camera. Overjoyed would be one way to describe it. While I was assembling his new bike, Noble kept stroking my hair, hugging me and saying, "Maaaamaaa."

I see more gifts in his future.

I think he's feelin' the love.

And he's always wearing a helmet when he rides, except for when I'm snapping pics to share with the world.

This is how the Lord humbles me.

What would make the girls in this family this insanely happy?

2011-08-26T11:45:00.000-07:00

Being surprised with tickets to this:

He's a keeper.

First Day

2011-08-24T08:50:00.001-07:00

Then:

Now:

And we're still sportin' the apple backpack.

Some things never change, and some things do.

And back to today. Today is London's last first day of preschool. I apologize for the extreme sentimentality. I can't help it.

I think she's going to be just fine.

Gearin' Up

2011-08-24T04:06:00.000-07:00

London's first day of preschool is today (although I use the word first loosely, this will be her third year of preschool, one of the perks of having a September birthday). And I have never been happier about the whole 'school' thing. First of all she's back at Central Christian, and I have grown quite attached to the wonderful people there. It has been an amazing experience, and I am overjoyed that we were able to send London for another year. And there's also relief. Relief that she's not yet 'in school'. James and I considered sending her off to kindergarten (London is what you would call 'school ready') :) a year early since she misses the cutoff by twelve days. But we didn't. And I couldn't be happier. And I know there is not a big difference (three mornings versus five), but it feels different. I have one more year until the 'we are officially starting school for the next 13 years' begins. I'm preparing myself now.

So in the meantime, I'm just holding my baby close, thankful that we have one more year 'at home' and vowing to myself to cherish every moment (even the afternoons) I have with her.

Summer wrap-up

2011-08-23T15:00:00.000-07:00

Even though we weren't able to go on a family vacation this summer, we had ourselves plenty of fun (and by we, I mean me and the kids-and yes I realize that there was probably nothing grammatically correct about that sentence). The kids and I made a couple of trips to Edmond where they got lots of spoiling from my side of the family.

My mom and I made a trip down to the Jasmine Moran children's museum in Seminole, and I have three words for it.

Early. Childhood. Heaven.

It was amazing. There was one room with all these different sections that were like dramatic play areas on steroids. One area was a garage with cars that had foam tires that could be removed with power tools. I'll let you guess where all the boys were. SO COOL.

Noble was in awe.

There were a lot of other fun things to check out, like an archaeological dig site,

Giant hula-hoop bubble makers,

Waterways,

Airplane cockpits,

Puppet theatres,

And SO much more. We will definitely make a trek out there again.

And then there was the swimming. LOTS of swimming. I think London and Noble would live in the pool if they could.

My fearless one (even without the floaties)!

And we can't forget the zoo. I love the Oklahoma City Zoo. It's amazing. My babies thought so too.

We were able to see this little girl. PRECIOUS. If you don't think an animal can be precious than you have never seen a new baby elephant. Or maybe you have and I'm just transferring my maternal instincts in some weird way since my babies are no longer babies. Sigh....

And probably the biggest hit at the zoo was this:

It will be a sad day when London outgrows the joy of the kiddie rides. It's the little things.

And then more swimming. One of the perks of having a pool at Nana and Grandpa's house are night swims. Life is good.

Summer is wonderful, late nights, slushy stands, hot pavement, sweaty kids, drippy swimsuits, air conditioning, movie filled afternoons and way, way too short! Until next year..........

It was all fun and games.....

2011-08-12T19:17:00.001-07:00

Until she heard thunder.

The Poet

2011-08-10T14:32:00.001-07:00

This morning London and I decided to let out our inner poet and write us up some poetry.

Needless to say, that's what we did again this afternoon. And most likely what we'll be doing tomorrow.

The girl's hooked.
For your reading pleasure, my oldests first attempt at free verse:

Crayons are to draw with.

I like artistic.

This is the best poem ever,

I wrote with a crayon.

Me and my mommy are very artistic.

Come see my mommy draw amazing pictures

around the world, and me!

Unicorn

I love unicorns,

They're so sweet,

And ponies too.

I most love ponies

And unicorns,

I love you all so much!

Laughing

Ornery

Nice to my brother

Dancer

Outrageous

Necklace

The Baird Family

I love my mommy so much,

Yes I do.

Mommy, mommy

Then I love my mommy,

Oh yes I do.

And I love my daddy too!

Hiccups

I had some hiccups,

I went to the store

And someone got the hiccups.

Then I was coming

Back from the store,

And they were gone.

A little getaway

2011-08-08T23:11:00.001-07:00

James surprised me with a belated anniversary weekend in Kansas City. To say that I was excited would be a gross understatement. I was so worried that I was going to become sick before we left that I think I took the maximum dosage of Airborne for five straight days (has anyone else had any experience with that particular drug? I swear I felt so energized and good after a couple of days of taking it-and did I mention I had no coke? That's right. None. Zero. Nada. Zipola. And I felt great.) I was completely packed 24 hrs before we left, and let me tell ya', that speaks volumes. (There just might be a picture of me in the dictionary next to the word procrastinate, just maybe). We relaxed and ate lots of yummy food and just enjoyed being together. Our lives seem so busy with small children, to do lists, and (most recently) James job, that it really was a tremendous blessing just to be. And I am so very grateful to him, and my family for making it all happen!

Our documented attempt at trying to take a picture of ourselves in our room (I'm not very good at asking people to take pictures, I don't know why).

A little cut off.....

Oh, wow, that's a lot of flash.....

I'll just close that for you....

And finally success (well success measured by trying to take 'together shots' in the hotel's bathroom mirror. :)

Our summer home

2011-08-04T06:52:00.000-07:00

We've been spending a lot of time here.

"Move back dad, I can swim."

Not really son. Your method of 'swimming' keeps me up at night.

He's ready for some serious pool time fun.....

And sweet sister Elizabeth was able to join us for a bit, which made it all the more fun.

The perma-smile that is on London's face when she is in the water.

Makes me smile just to think about it, happy summer!

Nothing says "I had a little too much fun" like contentedly sleeping on a wood floor

2011-07-15T15:38:00.001-07:00

London was much more reasonable, choosing to sleep in the sleeping bag.
LOTS of family. :)
And cake.

Noble loved the basketball....

almost as much as the riding lawn mower.

"Fireworks schmierworks, I'm mowing!"

Oooooh, glow sticks.....
Thank you Rae Lynn, for allowing me to keep track of my children in the dark.

You made everything MUCH more enjoyable!

Now to shoot off some explosives...

Happy 4th of July!

It started out as a sweet game of 'baby'...

2011-07-08T21:10:00.000-07:00

and then it turned emotional...

She was just chewing on her paci, in what feels like yesterday.

How did my baby, become my little girl?

Seeing that sweet little face, with that familiar (obviously) expression made my heart melt.

Of course it wasn't that long ago, seeing as we didn't make London give up her pacifier untilwell past her 2nd birthday, but still.....they grow up too fast.

(Will someone please remind me of this tomorrow when I'm cleaning up the spilled whatever for the millionth time, it might help).

Little Fish

2011-06-27T11:56:00.000-07:00

Not so sure at first.....still deciding....
Okay, we're good to go!

Both London and Noble LOVED to go to swim class. I don't think London ever stopped smiling, and Noble decided that jumping in and retrieving cars from the bottom was the coolest thing ever.

Future Michael Phelps? We'll see.

There's nothing that will unify siblings like de-pillowing sofas

2011-06-21T13:36:00.000-07:00

Just Like Him

2011-06-20T11:14:00.001-07:00

Dad, you're the best!

2011-06-17T13:03:00.000-07:00

Here are just a few of the reasons why we love and adore you:

And we can't forget how wonderful our dads are to us!

We love you all, Happy Father's Day!

London's ballet debut

2011-06-16T13:16:00.000-07:00

The tap dancing elephants, all ready for practice....

Heading back for the dress rehearsal. Mommies weren't allowed. London was giddy and having so much fun with her friends. I love this moment.

Afterwards, London and Ali were trying to hide from me and my camera.
Gotcha!
London is getting excited, it's almost time.....
Noble is obviously very excited too (he unfortunately had no idea he wasn't going to share in the recital experience. And I think that is as close to a tutu as his dad will ever let him get).

London with her:

Nana
Gammie
and Honey. Lucky little girl.

And here is the completely exhausted London after hours of recital practice. The poor girl can barely lift her ballet weary toes.

The recital was so much fun, London did an amazing job-I don't think I've never seen a cuter elephant. I was so thankful that our families were able to make it down to watch our precious little ballerina/elephant perform; our baby is turning into a little girl. It's amazing, wonderful and a little heart wrenching all at the same time. Thank you for sharing that moment with us!

Moving up...or down

2011-05-25T14:35:00.000-07:00

He's one excited BIG boy...

Ready to get to work with dad...

TA-DA! A bed ready for a toddler who thinks he's really moving up in the world.

And on the other side, we have London's bed...

My baby's big boy bed. At least he still lets me rock him at night-I still have that!

Summer's beginning

2011-05-24T10:17:00.000-07:00

School's out, and so is the sunshine.

Summer, here we come!

Our shoes have still not made it back into the house

2011-05-18T12:00:00.000-07:00

Our church playgroup made plans to visit a dairy farm several weeks ago. One of my children LOVED it. I'll let you guess which one.

Here is London and Noble's dairy farm adventure:

Can you feel his apprehension?

He's still not so sure... "Where are we, why are we here, what IS that smell and for cryin' out loud, why are my pants rolled up to my knees?"

And he wouldn't even consider getting close enough for a picture with this little girl.

Fascinated and fearless.

London and Noble found the farm to be captivating, a little smelly, fascinating, muddy, surprising, intimidating, really smelly, amazing, slightly worrisome, muddy, and of course, completely fun.

Afternoon snack

2011-05-18T11:55:00.000-07:00

Snacks are best served outside, in a chair (or bumbo) and preferably with a friend.

London's Spring Program

2011-05-09T19:10:00.001-07:00

Every spring London's preschool class puts on a little program where the children sing, recite poetry, your know, your typical spring program stuff.

London was dying to go on. She couldn't wait. Every day it was, "Is my program tonight?" "Are you sure it isn't tonight?" "What if you forget and we miss it?" .

Well we didn't miss it, and London did a fantastic job. Really. Ask me about it sometime and I will tell you about what an AMAZING performance she gave and how she really held it together, really.

There's a good reason Noble is trying to escape...
And there it is.

They really do love each other, and now I have the photo to prove it.
Daddy's beautiful little girl.

And I'll leave you with this final expression:
I feel the teenage years fast approaching.

Easter morning '11

2011-04-29T10:40:00.000-07:00

You can tell that when I post pictures from Easter two weeks late that I am either: a) catching up on laundry or b) reading an actual book or c) doing both

Getting ready in the morning, I whipped out the camera a little late, but there they are.

After lunch we had ourselves a little indoor easter egg hunt, it was pouring outside.
London was a big help to her little brother....
even though he thought the best part was shaking his bucket so that the eggs noisily flew everywhere. Boys.....

A prize for superb Easter egg hunting.

Oh, and London was a little unhappy that the Easter bunny didn't visit this year, (poor girl only received treats from her mom and dad, plus both her grandparents). James explained that the Easter bunny was the most fickle of the holiday gift givers, and that he was sure that next year he would make an extra big effort to visit her.
And yes, I'm enjoying my book very, very much.

It's unlikely the Easter bunny will be visiting this house on Sunday

2011-04-22T12:47:00.000-07:00

Noble made it very clear what would happen if the Easter bunny stepped foot on our property this weekend, and it isn't pretty.

You give a two year old free license to decorate 'his bunny' however he wants, and this is how it turns out.

I'm trying to figure out where all this animosity is coming from.

He may still be angry about the flowers some punk bunnies ate in our garden.

London's bunny was much more approachable.
Even though she opted to use toilet paper instead of cotton balls. Here's to creativity!

"Mary, Mary, quite contrary how does your garden grow?"

2011-04-20T04:49:00.000-07:00

To which London (taking upon herself the role of Mary in the musical that is her life) responds, "With roses, day lilies, those white flowers, tulips........." (and it continues, as you will soon discover).

James, London and I decided that London (and Noble's) playhouse could use some color and life that only a garden can bring. It was a little chilly when we started, but London can be quite the worker.
A little water, a little sun....
....and a few flowers eaten away by a gang of vandalizing backyard bunnies......

....and the addition of some rose bushes with help from Papa, Honey and Elizabeth.....

and we have a vibrant, blooming garden. And a very successful little gardener.

Mastering the art of smiling.

Good thing London is here to help.

And speaking of London, those shorts she's wearing have been 'put away' for the last three summers, and somehow they keep showing up. It's a real mystery, how they suddenly reappear and also how London gets them on (the tag reads 24 mos.).

Beautiful girl.
Remember the song I mentioned at the beginning? Well, here it is. Enjoy.

If you need a waver, he's your guy

2011-04-13T12:01:00.000-07:00

Noble and London LOVED riding all the mechanical animal/vehicle rides around Branson. This one was no exception. As you can tell, what started out as lassoing (for Noble) turned into a wave that looked like it was made for a parade float.

That's my boy.

And as a bonus you also get to hear my dad say my middle name...ahhhh...feels like old times.

It's good to get away

2011-03-25T12:54:00.001-07:00

My parents were kind enough to invite us to a spring break getaway with them in Branson.

Needless to say it was pretty awesome.

This is after London went on a shopping marathon with Nana. That four year old has some serious endurance.

And both kids got some nice one on one time with their daddy. It is so nice just to see one another without a million things going on.

London is getting some help writing a note, which later, I was thrilled to be the recipient of. (It said "I love you. Love London") This little girl LOVES to write.

Having more fun, I will have to post a video I took of this. It makes me laugh every time.

This was our first trip to Silver Dollar City and we loved it! There were so many fun things for London and Noble to do, and it didn't hurt that the weather was perfect too!

Can you tell this is Nobles first time on a roller coaster? It's actually London's too, but that girl is pretty fearless. She did insist that James sit with her, which I totally understand. If I had a choice of someone to ride with on something as scary as a roller coaster I definitely wouldn't choose me, I'd go for the big strong guy who also isn't afraid of anything.

Noble barely made the height requirement, just by 1/6 of an inch! After the ride was over he was strutting through the park like he was some tough two year old!

Nana was able to take them on some rides too.

"Wheeeeeeeeeee!"
And in case your wondering what the oversized bandaid is for, London was accidentally pushed into a large metal spike that punctured her forehead. Luckily it didn't slow her down for long.

Yep, a good time was had by all.

Twice the fun

2011-03-25T12:27:00.000-07:00

Not only is he two, but he got to celebrate the occasion twice.

We are all about setting high expectations in our family.

Noble was really excited about his robot cake.

He actually helped make it.

And then I finished it, with only a mild anxiety attack. Cake making is not my thing. I would like it to be my thing, but, unfortunately it's not.

For the love of all things yummy and beautiful would someone please tell me how to crumb coat a cake. Please.
Somehow it survived my attempts to frost it and nobody seemed to even notice that it wasn't properly 'crumb coated' (I think they actually appreciated the extra tub of icing I used to cover rough spots!).
I love getting together with all of our family. Birthdays (at least our children's) seem to bring everyone together.

I'm really into that.

Happy 2nd 2nd Birthday my sweet, robot lovin' baby boy.

Cooking up a good time

2011-03-08T13:25:00.000-08:00

Noble's 2nd birthday party was a huge hit with the two year olds. It appears that frosting and then consuming you own cookies is all the rage right now.

The siblings seemed to enjoy themselves as well!
Birthday boy Owen getting busy with the cookie decorating.
Noble was REALLY excited about the frosting options. He preferred to use two brushes, simultaneously to apply it.
Nana had a good time too.
I love this picture of London and Noble with their Gammie.
Happy Birthday Owen and Noble!

Happy birthday sweet baby boy

2011-03-07T14:40:00.000-08:00

Like usual, we had one too many celebrations to celebrate one of our children's birthdays.

Just doing our part to set high expectations and inundate them with materialism. Not really, but sometimes that's what it feels like. Mommy likes to celebrate...I might need an intervention.

Of course no birthday is complete until you've had breakfast with dad at an insanely early hour.

Noble didn't complain one bit about the time.

Or the fact that his dad dressed him like its the middle of June.

He was just incredibly happy to be alive.

I like that about him.

Happy 2nd birthday to my super sweet little boy of few words (but great inflection and facial expressions). I can't imagine our little family without you.

Chillin'

2011-03-03T19:31:00.000-08:00

Sunshine and 30 min. of peace

2011-03-03T19:20:00.000-08:00

As if you couldn't tell by her expression, London is singing. It's a song about the sunshine and the barbie jeep and how she loves both of them immensely.

Almost like Christmas

2011-02-15T09:04:00.000-08:00

So I really like Valentines day. How can you not love a holiday centered around love? Not to mention that it helps break up the cold, bleak, never ending winter.

But I tend to go a little bit overboard.......

and this year I had a helper who was equally as excited as I was. We actually ran out of room to hang hearts; London was quite the heart maker (and if they were low enough, Noble was quite the heart breaker ). :)

Noble's newest passion-playdoh. He wants to get it out at least 50 times during the day. You will now find playdoh on every carpet fiber around the kitchen table, not to mention downstairs in the playroom.
Oh happy, happy day.

My sweet little Valentines

2011-02-14T07:19:00.001-08:00

Winter has brought out London's bad side

2011-02-09T16:51:00.000-08:00

Literally.

London's decided she wants to be a rock star.

I think she's got the look down pretty well.

And the anger.

Thank you Guitar Hero II.

And I love the fact that her shirt says "love is everywhere." Good choice babe.

Yes, we're that bored

2011-01-26T10:55:00.001-08:00

Almost Two

2011-01-26T10:49:00.000-08:00

Lots of together time

2011-01-26T10:40:00.000-08:00

Sleepy toes

2011-01-26T10:37:00.000-08:00

Now she's just pretending it's not winter

2011-01-26T10:24:00.000-08:00

Not only is London drawing pictures of spring-like things, but she is insisting on dressing for the warmer season too.

This coming from the child who was so worried that after Christmas winter was over. I wish.

The fun didn't last long

2011-01-18T11:57:00.000-08:00

My sweet snow babies.

Nothing like a snowball to the face/camera to wind things down and move everyone inside.

22 min. of getting dressed + 2.2 min. of 'fun' in the snow = further resentment directed toward the month of January

Ballerina in training

2011-01-11T07:33:00.000-08:00

Thank heaven for little girls

2011-01-06T12:53:00.001-08:00

One sweet girl + 4 dressed up dolls + 5 furry friends (all adorned with feathers and/or bows) = one precious little tea party

That is one fancy cake...
made by one fancy hostess.....

and enjoyed by one not-so-fancy, but very thankful mama.

Christmas 2010

2011-01-01T13:33:00.000-08:00

It went down this year without a hitch, thanks to the absence of any freakishly large blizzards.

There was family, food, and everything on London's wish list. What more could a girl ask for?

There was however the unexpected unicorn pillow pet attack, that I'm so glad was captured on film for posterity.

Merry Christmas and a Happy 2011!!!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas

2010-12-22T09:35:00.000-08:00

Marital Bliss

2010-12-14T12:54:00.000-08:00

Meet robot, London's newest companion.

This is what she recently told me about robot, "This is my boyfriend, but he's really my husband."

And they lived happily ever after, like all married couples who still act like they are dating.

My zoo pics

2010-12-02T13:16:00.000-08:00

So I thought I'd swallow my pride and post my pictures from the zoo. I mean it's not like I'm in competition with my 4 yr. old right? Right!?!?

She's putting my photography skills to shame

2010-12-02T12:56:00.000-08:00

Here are just a few of the images my four year old captured when she got a hold of my camera during a family outing to the zoo.

Love how she framed this one.

I love the perspective, and beautiful composition and lighting.

Great self-portrait.
I was originally going to post my zoo pictures, but like I said, hers totally put mine to shame.

My little artist.

Her book says it all

2010-11-24T11:18:00.000-08:00

A little 'bit of fall

2010-11-23T10:54:00.000-08:00

Every year I take London's picture by our itty-bitty maple we planted the year she was born.

Even though it's tiny, I love looking out the back door and seeing the red and orange leaves.

I just wish they would stay around longer.

And then I get all nostalgic and think about how this tree is kind of like our little family, young and new, but growing and changing every year.

Which leads to me thinking about how much these two have grown and how they will continue to grow.

Which leads to a minor panic attack.

Slow down for heaven's sake! (Not you mini maple.)

I'll distract myself with a tongue shot, (just like daddy, when he's really concentrating hard)!

Phew, all better, happy fall and happy Thanksgiving!

20 months

2010-11-22T13:06:00.000-08:00

Noble decided early on in our little 'photo shoot' that he only wanted to have his picture taken if he could sit on my lap.

That was okay with me.

And he's officially never growing up. Ever.

We all came out smiling

2010-11-19T12:31:00.000-08:00

While I'm out doing this:

My children are doing this:
this:
this:
and this:
I've decided family night as a family can be highly over rated. James is obviously perfectly capable of watching the children around livestock, motor vehicles driven by children, and open flames. I see more hair appointments in my future.

"Oh where, oh where has my little boy gone..."

2010-11-19T12:24:00.000-08:00

Why dress up dolls when you have a little brother?

2010-11-17T07:47:00.000-08:00

He's just hitteous

2010-11-03T10:49:00.000-07:00

That was what London said in the car yesterday in reference to her brother. I corrected her of course, being the ever diligent, this is how you pronounce words sort of mom I am, "London, I think you mean hideous." To which London replied, "No, he's HITTEOUS mom; he's always hitting me all the time."

Right, of course. That makes so much more sense. You just keep right on making up your own words baby, and I'll keep sharing them with the world.

"Would you like some more tea with that cake Nana?"

2010-11-01T13:57:00.003-07:00

Trunk or Treat 2010

2010-11-01T13:57:00.001-07:00

Trunk or Treat was as fun as ever this year, and so many people participated and went all out, making it really fun and memorable for everyone!

Can you guess what our theme was this year?

Presenting princess Jasmine and her faithful monkey Abu (okay, so we all know it was Aladdin's faithful monkey), riding on a magic carpet ride. Like that song hasn't been stuck in my head for days.

And here's the most adorable bat girl I've ever seen.

I know everyone will be completely surprised to find out that James came up with the really fun idea of a 'magic carpet ride'. The kids had to climb up on it to get to the candy. And it really was suspended and wobbly and really fun to climb on. And I apparently really like to say really. I got to be the 'load tester' to ensure it was totally safe and kid friendly. The many joys of being married to an engineer.

Two little monkeys...

"What is this? What did you say? Someone's giving out candy? Who's giving out candy? Everyone we know is just giving out candy?" - Jerry Seinfield

It gets her every year.

Noble made the perfect monkey since, as I've mentioned before, the child climbs everything. His costume, unfortunately, wasn't up to the task of keeping up with him and broke within thirty seconds of trick or treating.

Rachel and her sweet super heroes, plus one super sweet princess

This was my favorite family get-up. Seriously, how cute is that? I've considered transposing our faces onto theirs and claiming this as our family, but we know too many of the same people.

Noble was obsessed with the 'gorilla' in the cage. We were either here watching the 'gorilla' or at the cars that had games with balls.

At one point Noble left and came back with someone else's sword ?? and let the gorilla know that he was taking charge of this apparently unsafe situation.

My favorite moment of Halloween this year had to be when we went to a few of our neighbor's homes and Noble was holding my hand and 'skipping', he was so happy. Every group of kids we passed by he waved to and said 'hi'. Pure, sugar high joy. It's what's all about.

Now someone please tell me what to do with the carpet ride apparatus that is currently taking up residence on the middle of our garage. Yet another joy of being married to an engineer.

The Bairds

2010-11-01T13:53:00.000-07:00

Family Pics

2010-11-01T13:41:00.000-07:00

Storybook Forest

2010-11-01T13:32:00.000-07:00

So Edmond has this fun little storybook, not at all scary, themed festival at lake Arcadia every year, and I was totally unaware. And we just happened to be in town the weekend it started, and it was adorable.

After you enter into the forest, you follow a little path past all these sets that are, you guessed it, fairy tale themed, and they hand out candy to the kiddos.

(Rapunzel was my favorite).
London and Noble loved it.

It had a lot going for it though:

1) It was outside

2) It was in a forest

3) It was outside

4) There was candy

It was perfect for their ages.
At the end there were games, where London scored some pink vampire teeth.
They also had hay rides, a concession stand, a story teller, and campfires. This is totally our new fall family tradition (while the kids are still little)!

Little Ballerina

2010-11-01T13:26:00.001-07:00

Glammin' it up

2010-11-01T13:16:00.000-07:00

London was extremely excited to get 'dolled up' for school pictures this year.

Taking pictures for me is pure torture, but a substitute a random stranger at school snapping her picture and she's more than accommodating.

A few of his favorite things...

2010-10-29T11:23:00.000-07:00

I thought I would document and share some of Noble's favorite pastimes, since time just keeps flying by and he will be two before I know it.

His dad. Noble loves his daddy. He can't seem to get enough of him these days (of course, neither can I). Since graduating, James has taken over Noble's bedtime and I seriously think it's Noble's favorite time of the day. In fact, he gets very frustrated if we wait too long for bedtime and he pulls James into his room to read books and rock and hardly even gives me a second look. He does at least blow me kisses, but in such a way that says "Okay, goodnight now mom, dad's got this, you can leave, we'll get to spend the entire day tomorrow together so sweet dreams."

Climbing.

It must be a boy thing.

Whatever it is, it can be climbed. It must be climbed. It WILL be climbed.

Being outside. And running. I'm already starting to feel anxious about the winter.

What will we do, where will we go??? I don't think the cold will stop him, it's me I'm worried about.

Randomly wearing his sister's Disney princess bicycle helmet around the house. We all know how dangerous snack time can be. (He really wants to ride London's bike, but his legs aren't quite long enough, so I guess he figures this is as close as he's going to get.)

Stacking, anything and everything. This boy loves to stack, and the more random the objects, the better. Pop cans, makeup, toys, goldfish, whatever he can get his tiny little hands on. He loved the challenge of the diaper boxes. Watching him trying to figure out the best way to fit them on top of one another reminded me of someone else I know......

At last...

2010-10-28T11:32:00.000-07:00

I finally captured a picture of my children together where they are actually both smiling, and , get this, looking at me!!!! I'm a little giddy, I thought the day would never come.

During a 'photo shoot' I usually I get this:

and a little of this:
and let's not forget this:
But here are the winners, yes that was plural, I got TWO!
And...
This one's not too bad either.

Now I just need a family one; I'll share that montage for another day. (It has been a sad, sad season for family pics, maybe this is the turning point!)

Walter's 2010

2010-10-19T18:58:00.000-07:00

We took our annual family excursion to the pumpkin patch, and thankfully this year, the weather cooperated. In fact, it was beautiful. Gorgeous. I would almost venture to say it was on the verge of being too warm, but then memories of defrosting after last year's trip flood my mind and I feel almost blasphemous. So, it was perfect.

It kills me how he gets in there with the 'big' boys. He has no idea he's only 1 1/2, and it's no use trying to tell him. Sigh.....

And then there is this one who is completely unaware of my presence if any other girl within 2 yrs. of her age is in a 50 ft. radius.
I know independence is a good thing, and I'm thankful she has such a strong sense of self. At least that's what I keep telling myself. Although sometimes I do wrap her up like a baby after bath time, and London thinks it's just to keep her dry and warm, but we all know it's because it's the only way I can hold her and carry her around like a baby and remind myself that she will always be my baby, even if it means I have to trick her into some 'snuggle time'.

Honey was able to come visit, which made the day even more special.
Rope 'em cowboy!

James took this. I love it.
At the patch....

Noble's hair reminds me of a fuzzy baby duck.

He loves ducks. That's one of the few words he says consistently.

Duck and quack.

And they both sound pretty much the same. I love it.

We only waited in line 30 min. to ride the barrel train which was soooooo worth it. Here's to another great year at Walter's!

18 months (as in, last month)

2010-10-12T13:00:00.000-07:00

I'm counting this as Noble's 18 month pic, although I never took an 'official' one. (If you can't tell he was cropped out of a family pic which didn't turn out so well). And since he is now, as of Friday, 19 months old, I'm going to take 'official' pictures of him this month. Please, someone hold me accountable. He is getting big WAY to fast!

Rain dancing, bed jumping, birthdays and a festival...

2010-10-12T12:03:00.000-07:00

...just a few of the things we've been up to over the past four weeks.

And celebrating Kaitlin's 17th birthday at the Cheesecake Factory. Yum.

Enjoying the carnival experience at Greater Andover Days.

Doesn't Noble look very concerned here. He was. He kept looking at us like "Umm, are you really letting me ride the carnival ride that goes up 10 ft. in the air with a four year old? Really??? Seriously, who is in charge?"

He survived. :)

So I have about 54,321 more pictures I need to post, but I'll save those for another month, uh, I mean day.

Four

2010-09-20T19:18:00.000-07:00

Four years ago we welcomed this precious baby girl into our family.

And we've watched her grow...

and grow....

and grow.

And I can't imagine our life without her.

Who knew that four was the magic age for asking awkward questions?

2010-09-20T11:53:00.000-07:00

I can't believe my baby's four. And I know I say that exact phrase every year. And I also know that every year it's going to be even more unbelievable to me how big she is. It seems like James and I should be celebrating the birth of our first child, not celebrating the birthday of our now FOUR year old.

Along with her four years of life have come some fun new questions, like.....

"When was I in your tummy?" "Was I always in your tummy?" "How did I get in your tummy?"

Which led to even more questions....

"How do babies get in their mommy's tummy?" Imagine me nonchalantly giving some general answer like "Well God put them there." And then imagine London's frustration at me for not giving her a better answer, like she knows I'm withholding information from her. "I know mommy, but how?" I won't bore you with the details of that explanation, except that I felt like satisfactorily gave her legitimate answers without going down that road quite yet. I'm not ready for that road anytime soon.

But anyway, back to my baby. And by baby I mean London. Because she will always, and I mean ALWAYS be my baby.