Party Weekend

Our two little party animals worked a double shift this weekend. We had back-to-back birthday parties Saturday and Sunday. Yesterday they got to go to Gullwings Museum for Lily's party. Lauren had a picnic in the submarine, while Jack went on an archeological dig! It is such a cute place for kids, exhibits often change and they always discover something new. They also got their first taste of rock candy lollipops...holy moly! Happy faces! Today we went to the park for Ethan's party. Jack and Ethan have been buddies since they met at Karen's house over four years ago! It was sunny and really warm. Fun times for both our little social butterflies. Tomorrow will be a day of rest before Rob has his two day registration event and then heads out of town for a week. Never a dull moment around here.

Potty New Year

I realize I might be overly ambitious, but...wouldn't it be a great way to kick off the new year?! Lauren has been dabbling in the whole potty training thing for about a month now. She got some special princess panties for Christmas and is very excited to wear them. So far we are 0 for 2, but it's a good day to try-pajama day!

Update: we went 0 for 3 before I put her back in diapers. My nerves were frazzled! I'll try again in a few weeks.

Desert Fun

Jack has been BEGGING to see Luke and Collin for months now. He was over the moon when he got a chance to spend the day with them Friday. They played at the park for a while and then we all enjoyed a delicious lunch at Pizza Vino. Great food, great company!
Extra bonus was seeing Great Tutu on Thursday! We grabbed deli lunch on our way into town and descended upon her quiet home with our motley crew. The kids were wound up from being in the car for a few hours, but Grandma Dotte handled it with her usual grace and charm. It was so wonderful to sneak a few hours in with her.
Now finally home after too many days away. Nothing like tucking into your own bed after several days away.

Christmas Kisses for Shannon and Lauren

This just melted my heart this morning....watching Shannon and Lauren give each other Christmas Kisses.  A memory maker for sure.  Merry Christmas everyone!

Rude Language

Sometimes Mommy and Daddy just need a good laugh :-)

Happy 5th Birthday Jack!

Five years ago today, our beautiful little miracle boy came into our lives and changed it for the better.  In light of what occurred last Friday, I can only say that we are especially lucky and blessed to have him in our life and we cherish every moment with him.

Happy Birthday Jack!

The Elf Is Back

Last year we adopted an elf and Jack named him Pootie. He comes to stay with us from Thanksgiving until Christmas. He observes the goings on and reports back to Santa every night. The kids can talk to him and tell him what they want from Santa.
Well, Pootie has been a bit mischievous lately. Below are some photos of the tricks he's been pulling. He read to our candy dispensers, wrapped the toilet in Christmas paper and hung our underwear from the mantle! Needless to say, the kids have been thrilled with his antics :-)