My Crazy Kids

Ahh...The end of the year....

2011-01-10T19:52:00.000-08:00

So, I've been completely slacking on the blog this year. I am going to attempt to do better on next year's blog. It's been a great year for all around! Lots of fun trips-Dilentment Lake, Crater Lake, the beach, lots of fun side trips! Oh, and did I mention-Brett and I got engaged?!?!?!

Liv turned 4. She's just as sassy as can be and is into being a princess, horses, and my little pet shop. Right now, I think her goal is to be a ballerina. I have a feeling she's going to be too tall, but I'm not going to be a dream killer right now LOL.

Jake turned 8 and well, Jake is Jake. He's funny, quirky, loud, cute...He's getting great grades in school, and loves sports. He's so tall and lanky now! I can't get over how my chubby little boy is so tall and skinny now. The amount of food he puts down at times astounds me. I don't know where he puts it (probably in his feet!)

Josey turned 12, going on 20. I swear that girl has gone from a little girl to a teen overnight. I'm not ready for it. Her grades have improved since last year, which makes both Brett and I proud. She's a smart cookie. Watch out, world! (and boys, STAY AWAY!!!)

So, follow me to my new blog, www.melaniesvidaloca2011.blogspot.com

Thursday, November 24th-Happy Thanksgiving

2010-12-03T13:37:00.000-08:00

John, Patsy, Colton, and Caitlyn came up from California to spend Thanksgiving with us. We had a blast!

Jake, sneaking into the pic, as usual...

Much better...

My bro, John

Some of the grandkids-Colton, Caitlyn, Liv, Josey, Jake. Dad was messing around in the background, though you can't tell by this pic.

Smelling good, Mom!!!

Mom has one of those wire head massager thingsy. Jake was intranced by it. He loved it. So, Mom was putting it on his head. He was practically comatose lol.

The blondies

The elder blondies, passing the time, waiting for dinner.

Snow fun! Liv said she had the biggest snowball EVER!

Liv and Caitlyn attempting "sledding". There really wasn't much snow to do so, but hey, they gave it the ol college try!

Josey, messing around.

Ms Caitlyn-Love this picture!

And Mr Colton. I can't believe he's 15 already!!!

The Girls...

2010-12-03T13:30:00.000-08:00

2 sassy, blonde beauties...I'm so in for it...

November 9th-Mathematics for the Millions....

2010-12-03T13:27:00.000-08:00

Ok, sreiously...Jake decided he was going to check out this book for Library. How funny is that?? He's in THIRD GRADE! What the heck!?!?!?!?

Monday, November 8th-Jake's Obsession with Sleeping in the Closet

2010-12-03T13:19:00.000-08:00

Not quite sure what his deal is, but he decided for weeks he was going to sleep in his closet. I got tired of it, so I put everything back in his closet and told him no more. I thought he was ok with it, until bedtime. I came in to check on him because I thought he was still "at rest" (ie, playing quietly with his legos) but alas, I found him curled around his plastic drawers in his closet. I decided I wasn't going to fight it...sleep where you want, little one!

Friday, November 5th...Guess who broke her arm AGAIN???

2010-11-26T08:41:00.000-08:00

This time, it was her wrist. She fell out of bed Thursday night. She was complaining then that it hurt, but she could move it, etc, so I thought she just bruised it. I gave her motrin, and she went back to sleep. When she woke up Friday am, she complained it hurt alittle so I didn't think anything of it. She complained alittle more, so I gave her some motrin. About 40 minutes later, she was running in the house. Of course, she was favoring her left arm, so she had her new iXL in her right hand, and tripped. She put her left hand out and landed square on it. She could still move it, etc, but I went with my Mommy instinct and made her a drs appt. She kept trying to tell me it felt better, but I knew it didn't because she'd pull away when I tried to check it. She has a buckle fracture in her left wrist. She gets the cast off on November 29th, then goes to a splint. Poor kid...If you notice, the shirt she is wearing is the same shirt she was wearing 2 weeks ago with the bead incident. That shirt is unlucky OR it's Friday. I haven't figured it out yet lol.

October 31st-Happy Halloween!

2010-11-26T08:38:00.000-08:00

Halloween turned out to be a nice day, which we were all surprised at, because it was supposed to be rainy. The kiddos always have fun, though =)
Liv as Princess Belle (I think wearing Belle's Christmas dress)

Jake as Jango Fett. Some Star Wars dude...

A nice one of my babies together...

And then I told them to make a funny face. This one of Jake just cracks me up!! He's so funny...

Tuesday, October 26th-Happy 4th Birthday, Princess!!!

2010-11-26T08:30:00.000-08:00

Ahhh...this is how beautiful 4 looks =)

Caught ya!! Jake, Sammy, and Liv, preparing to eat birthday cake, though, Liv is sampling early lol

Waiting patiently...

Yummy!!! I made a 4 layer rainbow cake for Liv.

Cool!

Crazy, Crazy kids!

Can you tell they were having FUN? Jake, Casey, Liv, and Sammy.

Now, on to the presents....

The beautiful sweater Nana made her.

And the infamous pillow pet (and new Tinkerbell Jammies) Happy Birthday, my sweet baby girl!

October 25th-Oh, the fun of curlers

2010-11-26T08:26:00.000-08:00

I decided to do some sponge curlers in her hair, just to see what it would do. Why? I don't know...because I can, I guess lol. I thought it turned out pretty cute. This was the day before her 4th birthday =)

Look who's 4???

Friday, October 22-Put a Bead in Your Nose, Would ya??

2010-11-26T08:18:00.000-08:00

I've been letting Liv make necklaces with beads. She'd been doing fantastic with them, making necklaces, being responsible-MORE responsible than I would expect a 3 year old to be. This is what lulled me into a false sense of security. Now, we'd gone over the rules of the beads. No sticking them in your nose, ears, mouth, etc. You'll have to go to the drs, etc etc etc. She knew the rules. Well, I'm sitting here one day, and Liv carried a bead to the bathroom. I didn't think anything of it (hind sight is 20/20, I know) and all the sudden, she's peeing, and yelling, "Mom, I have a bead up my nose!" Now, I translated that to "Mom, I have a BEE in my nose" and in my head, I'm thinking, how in the heck did a BEE get in her nose? I never would've thought she'd have a bead in there! SO, after confirming the bead issue, I made several different attempts to get it out. Couldn't be done. Called the nurse's advice line-every bit of advice she gave, I'd already tried. So, it was off the the drs (45 minutes away, mind you!) to get the bead removed.

This is Liv, crying, after I made a last valant attempt to get the bead out myself, while sitting in the room, waiting for the dr. Funny thing is, every nurse and Dr said, "Oh, she did such a boy thing!" Hmm...They don't know my kids well, do they????

So, here's the bead-The dr said A) how in the heck did she get that shoved so far in there and B) there's no way we could've got it out ourselves. *sigh*

October 8th-Hot Rolling Girl =)

2010-10-28T20:06:00.000-07:00

I totally forgot I had hot rollers. I initially got them out for Josey, but thought I'd try them in Liv's hair. I think it turned out cute, but I still love her natural curls =)

Awww...feeding the baby....

2010-10-19T20:55:00.000-07:00

Liv, feeding her baby doll. The outfit the baby doll is wearing, Liv wore when she was an itty bitty baby =)

We were SUPPOSED to be taking a walk....

2010-10-19T20:44:00.000-07:00

I bring the stroller for Liv because walking up to the park can get long for her (Jake had his bike, but my friend Michele's daughter was riding it because, well, you can see where Jake wanted to be...) I ended up pushing Jake AND Liv home lol

I need to create a blog just about my children's weird sleeping habits...

2010-10-19T20:42:00.000-07:00

Liv was wanting to sleep on the floor. Again, I went to do the final night check, and this is how I found Liv...half under the bed, half not...

Sept 10th-Biker Babes!

2010-10-19T20:35:00.000-07:00

We were on our way to Idaho, and stopped in Prairie City. In Prairie City, there's a cool covered wagon replica. We pulled over and let the kids run around and stretch. While we were running around, some bikers pulled up. Of course, Jake was on them like white on rice. They were so cool. They let Jake and Josey get on their bikes to sit. Liv was busy entertaining the other bikers. While I was taking the older kid's pics, I could hear the other bikers laughing and laughing. Apparently Liv was telling jokes lol.

Girl in a tote!

2010-10-19T20:33:00.000-07:00

I went to go check on Liv in the playroom. She somehow managed to shove herself into a small tote and was watching TV. Funny, funny kid...

He's such a funny kid....

2010-10-19T20:32:00.000-07:00

So, I went to check on Jake to make sure he was asleep, and this is what I walked in on. His snow boots, on the railing of his bed. He's such a trip....

It's Soccer Season!

2010-10-19T20:06:00.000-07:00

And BRRRR! It was a cold one this year!

Where's the ball, Jake???

He's on it!

I love this shot! He was jumping up to attempt to make a goal.

And Jake, cuddling up to Josey, during one of the times he wasn't playing.

Monday, August 30th-First Day of School

2010-10-19T20:00:00.000-07:00

We moved Jake to the private Christian school in town. They start a week earlier than public school. So far, Jake loves it! Josey's been going since Kindergarten. Look at how cute they look =)

My Little Ballerina

2010-09-08T20:43:00.000-07:00

I put Liv into a 4 week ballerina/tap to see if she'd like it. She didn't actually like it. She LOVED it. So, needless to say, we'll hopefully be starting pre-tap here in a couple of weeks.

Look at that sweet smile...

and then she stuck her tongue out at Jake *sigh*

Following directions for once ;-)

listening intently...

Wednesday, August 25th-And She Finally Does it sigh

2010-09-08T20:14:00.000-07:00

You know when you have these premonitions? You see things happening in your head, and you HOPE like hell they don't happen, yet, hours later they do? There are many times when I wish my "premonitions" were for good. Like, say, winning the lottery. I would love to envision some numbers, and use them to win some bucks, but alas, I'm stuck with premonitions of kids falling off things, and oh, a little girl cutting her hair *sigh*

So, hours before the "incident", Liv comes out of Jake's room, with Jake's handy dandy school scissors. In a FLASH, I see her chopping her hair. Oddly enough, right where she DID do it later. I looked at her and said, go put those back on Jake's desk NOW, and do not touch them again. That should be enough, right? Give the threatening look, they run screaming like you've burned holes in them, swearing they will never do another bad thing again-that look. Yep, in theory, it should work, but again, my children have this immunity to it, mostly. So, later that night, Jake and Liv are having a sleepover in Jake's room. All the sudden, Liv comes out of her room, with hair in one hand, scissors in the other, looking completely panicked, saying, "Momma, I didn't want long hair anymore, I didn't want long hair anymore!!!" I could've DIED! I am so thankful that Josey'd changed Liv's hair because if she hadn't, I'm sure Liv would've mohawked herself. Another blessing is that Liv has curly hair. She cut straight across below her left ear, so you couldn't hardly tell with the curls. I had my friend Jill fix her hair so it would be more even. We had to cut alittle off the length, but at least it looks better.

Monday, August 23rd...My Dirty Kids

2010-09-08T19:55:00.000-07:00

So, the kiddos were outside in the plastic pool, having a great time. They got all quiet so I got up to see what they were doing. I opened the door to this:

Jake, attempting to bury Liv in the dirt. What made this all even better was the fact that they'd been in the pool and were already soaked. I didn't even bother getting upset and just let them go with it lol

Then, they switched..

ACK! At this point, there's no use saying anything. I had to hose them off before they came into the house to shower lol

Liv had dirt in places dirt should NEVER be allowed lol

Smile, Jakey! lol

Thursday, August 19th-Melanie & Theo's Wedding

2010-09-08T19:44:00.000-07:00

The whole reason Catherine and I went to Canada was to attend Melanie & Theo's wedding. Even though there was a horrible inversion with a ton of smoke from the Kelowna fires, it was a fantastic day.

Catherine, Theo, Melanie, and me, after the wedding.

My girls =)

Melanie's son, Remy. Isn't he sweet???

Sunday, August 15th-Visitng Glacier National Park!!!

2010-09-08T13:26:00.000-07:00

Catherine and I took a road trip to Canada to attend our friend Melanie's wedding. Along the way, we stayed at her friend Kelly's house. We were able to go to Glacier National Park. And, bonus? It was free national park weekend so we didn't have to pay the $25 bucks to get in (of course, we ended up paying it on the way back because we wanted to see the other side lol)

Beautiful butterfly
Me at Lake McDonald...

Loved this bridge!

Now Catherine was having back issues right before we left. TJ (Kelly's husband) decided to show her some yoga moves in the middle of the rocks =)

Beautiful Lake McDonald

Catherine, enjoying the scenery =)

Me, too! (You couldn't tell I had a migraine the size of Texas)

Now, you'd better watch out for the state of Idaho. I just may fall on you.

Catherine, Me, TJ--> look at that view!

The road to the Sun...VERY narrow. Can't imagine taking the mini van here lol

Saturday, August 14th-Meeting up with my childhood BFF

2010-09-08T13:00:00.000-07:00

On my way to Canada, I was able to meet up with my childhood best friend, Christina, who lives in Rathdrum. We met up for a late lunch. It was so nice to be able to catch up again!

1st Week of August-The Chornicles of Jake's Dirty Room

2010-09-08T12:38:00.000-07:00

So, Jake's room is always a disaster. For those who've grown up with me, they know and understand the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. I've done everything to attempt to get Jake to clean his room-Threatening to take things away, etc. I finally got tired of it and said you know what? You're not coming out until it's clean. So, I started chornicling it daily. I piled everything into the middle of the room so it would make it easier on him, or so I thought...

Day 1:

Day 2:

Day 3:

Day 4:

Day 5:

Day 6:

and I didn't take a picture of day 7 or day 8, but here's what happens when Nana comes over and rescues you:

She ends up helping you clean your WHOLE room!

Saturday, July 31st-A Trip to the Zoo!

2010-09-08T12:13:00.000-07:00

Jake, Liv, and I met up with some Junebugs (from the June 2002 birthboard I've been a part of for years-Jake was due in June originally) I was able to meet up with Shay and her 3 children (they are from Massachusetts) and Claire with her 2 children (they are from Florida) at the Portland Zoo. We had a great time. There were 4 adults and 7 children. We were clearly outnumbered lol.

Jake, with the giraffes.

My two cuties

Jake, with Andrew (Claire's son)

I have a pic of Liv standing here when she was 18mths old as well.

Aww, isn't she cute???

All of us attempting to get a group photo.

Wednesday, July 28th-Real Men Wear Sequins

2010-09-08T12:04:00.000-07:00

During Jake's soccer camp, they had Wacky Dress Wednesday. Not only did they get points for dressing up for their team (They broke all the players down into countries. Jake just happened to be on Team USA) but they got to bring an article of clothing for their coach to wear. I took Jake down to the ol Lucky Penny here in town. We found a silver sequined skirt (with built in shorts lol) then I took one of his wife beaters and decorated it with my stickers (I hot glued them on so they would stay) The below is the result:

Of course, Liv had to get in on it lol

Here are Jake's coaches. James is wearing the purple shorts suit I brought for him to wear LOL

Week of July 26th-British Soccer Camp for Jakey!

2010-09-08T11:36:00.000-07:00

Jake did the British Soccer Camp at the end of July. He had a great time learning new skills and just playing soccer.

Jake's coaches, Chris and James. They were both from the U.K. Chris said Jake was one of his favorites from the whole summer (probably because he's alittle crazy like his Mama ;-) )

Looks like Jake needs to eat more, however, if you saw him eat, you wouldn't be saying that! lol Not sure why he had his shirt off. It was warm but not that warm.

Kick that ball, birdie!

Look at my handsome boy! He's already wearing a size 5 shoe and is 4ft 6!!! He's gonna be a big boy =)

Sunday, July 18th--Hellllllo Hammy!

2010-09-08T11:30:00.000-07:00

Meet Ms Hammy!! Jake got Hammy for his birthday from Nana and Papa. He originally named her Dragonoid from a Bakugan cartoon, but the nickname "Draggy" didn't fit her. I finally convinced him it wasn't a very feminine name, so we changed it to Hammy (ok, yeah, I know-NOT so feminine still, but better than Dragonoid lol) Now, Hammy puts up with Jake and me, however, she pees/poops on Josey everytime (I think she senses Josey is weirded out about those kinds of things) and bites Liv. Why does she bite Liv, you ask? That would be because Liv spent the first 2 weeks either A) poking her or B) blowing on her. Hammy knows her scent and bites her almost every time. So, Liv's come to leave Hammy alone. Well, not totally, but she's way better than she was.

Saturday, July 17th-Floating in the Crooked River

2010-08-25T17:20:00.000-07:00

So, we took the kids to the upper Crooked River to go swimming for the day. I thought for sure Jake would be the chicken little of the bunch. Liv is usually the one that digs in and goes for it. Well, surprise, surprise! Jake got right in. He did SOOO well with his swimming! Liv stayed on the edge the whole time. She didn't want anything to do with going in the water. There were snakes in the water. I was totally cool and the gang with it, until they started dive bombing my feet later. I got the hell out of dodge then lol. I draw the line at dive bombing water snakes.

Here's one of the tiny snakes. Yes, they were tiny but let me tell you: When they are dive bombing your feet, they seem 7 feet long! lol

Jake, testing the waters.

Josey got right in BUT make me hold her the whole time. She was afraid she'd float down the river and wouldn't be able to get back LOL

And here I am, like I said, holding Josey's tube. Jake, on the other hand, was like Free Willy, floating without a care in the world (which, if you know Jake, is NOT like him lol) I guess I'd feel confident, too, if I had a life jacket AND a tube around my chest lol.

Liv, holding up the shore LOL

Me and Bretters =)

Me and Josey

Brett, in the tube. I had to get a picture because he doesn't normally A) put on shorts or B) go in the water, so this is a major feat.

So, Liv was hiding stuff in her swimsuit. I asked her what she was doing. She said she was gathering her super spy kit.

That would be a shovel, rake, and a stick lol

Jake, the master floater

Josey, spitting water out of her mouth. I just thought the picture was funny lol

Tuesday, July 13th-Mr Creative (Jake)

2010-08-25T17:14:00.000-07:00

SO, I sent Jake outside to play. We have a dirt pile on the side of the house (dirt left over from the garden) and Jake was playing in it. I left him alone for maybe 30 minutes. This is what I came out to. He had the pipe up (from the stove in the garage that we got rid of) shoved a bunch of dirt down the hole, and was attempting to fill the rest of the pipe up with water before I stopped him. At least he's creative...

Monday, July 12th-Brotherly/Sisterly Love

2010-08-25T17:11:00.000-07:00

Jake and Liv, watching TV together. Aren't they sweet? They can be at times lol

Weekend of July 16th-A Trip to the Beach

2010-08-02T15:59:00.000-07:00

Brett and I took a trip to Lincoln City. We took the trailer down there and parked it on his parent's lot there. Catherine ended up coming down on Saturday and joining us. We had a great time!!

Brett, holding my shoes. Now that's love!

Catherine walking and enjoying the ocean. It was quite windy, hence the hood.

Feet in the Pacific =)

Beautiful sun @ Pacific City

Yep, we ate at the Oar House lol.

On our way back from Pacific City. Glad I got this shot. By the time we made it back to Lincoln City, it was all fogged in. It's amazing the difference 10 miles makes!

A self portrait shot. You can tell by my hair it's seen better days, thanks to the wind :p

Some deer along the way =)

July 7th & 8th...This is why I will never sleep with any of these kids...

2010-08-02T15:51:00.000-07:00

Because it's absolutely impossible for any of them to stay still. The kids (Jake included) went thru a "I want to sleep on the floor" phase. Josey went thru a "I want Liv to sleep with me every night" phase as well. Josey definitely sleeps a little better than Liv, but not by much. This is what I would come out to every morning.

Liv eventually kicked the fan hard enough that it fell on her.

I just don't know how they do it...

Monday July 5th-Miss Liv on her way to her first dance lesson

2010-08-02T15:47:00.000-07:00

Liv did a 4 week trial dance class, to see if she would really like it. Of course, as I thought, she LOVED it. This was her first day. I couldn't observe until the very last day because the kids tend to not pay attention when Mommys and Daddys are there (and boy I understand NOW!)

This was afterwards. She had to pee, and was extremely perplexed when she couldn't get her tights off lol

Day 40-Final Day at Crater Lake-July 5th

2010-08-02T15:44:00.001-07:00

Our last day...we had a great time. We had to do the dance of 1000 mosquitos because they were after us. Brett ended up finishing the truck loading so we could get on the road.

Josey and Brett, with our final shots of Wizard Island in the background

Awww...

Note to self: When taking pics, make sure *I* am on the down slope next time, instead of the upper slope, effectively making me 10 inches taller than I really am...

Crater Lake-Day 3-Sunday July 4th

2010-08-02T13:26:00.000-07:00

Day 3 brought is alittle warmer weather, and a trip to Diamond Lake, and the head of the Rogue River. Jake went in the water just a tad, but Liv would have nothing to do with it. The water was FREEZING. Once you numbed your body, it felt good, but until then, brrrr! Josey went in, no problems, as always. She made me go out with her, much to my dismay. After we left Diamond Lake, we took a drive to the head of the Rogue River. We stopped at this little shop to get some ice cream. Brett had a Northern Industrial catalog in the back of the truck. Jake loved this thing! He circled all kinds of things, from nuts, to wrenches, etc. It was the funniest thing. When we got out to get the ice cream, Jake brought the book out with his pen. Brett and I went in to get the ice cream. I turned to check on the kids. Jake was sitting at the table, with all these 4 wheeler people surrounding him, while he pointed out all the stuff in the catalog, things he wanted to order, ETC. It was so cute! While we were eating our ice cream, Josey and Jake started messing around. Jake started chasing Josey, and Josey slipped and fell on the gravel. Initially it was funny (well, who am I kidding?? Karma...that's all I have to say) but she did scrape her leg pretty good. She recovered quickly, as all youngin's do.
Josey, the crazy nutball, in the water. That's the top of my head. I was sitting on the fallen tree, debating...

and here I sit on my perch...

Brett, sititng there, drinking a buckskin. It was too cold for him to even get in his shorts (which he doesn't do very often anyway lol)

Josey and Jake, giving thumbs up.

Josey and me, in the water-BRRRRRR

Miss Messy Face. Her nose was running and she kept wiping her face, getting dirt all over it. GAH!! It was gross.

Note to self: Never swim when there's still snow on the upper mountains. It's never a good sign.

Yep, that's my girl...picking her nose *sigh*

Part of the Rogue River

Awww...look at them!

I found this so amusing...

If you look closely, there is a mosquito on my thigh. They were the bane of our existence while we were @ Crater Lake. I swear they stalked us. At night, we'd go in to play games with the kids because the mosquitos were so bad. You'd look out the window and there they were, staring us down, daring us to step out of the trailer so they could bite us.

Saturday, July 3rd-Day 2, Crater Lake

2010-07-25T21:36:00.000-07:00

This is a panoramic I took on the observation deck

Day 2 was definitely more promising than day 1. We woke to sunshine, blue skies, and most importantly, warm weather! We ended up going back up to Rim Village to check things out a bit more. Jake was totally in love with the room off the observation deck. It told all about how Crater Lake formed (it was a volcano that imploded). It didn't take Jake long before he was telling everyone all kinds of facts on Crater Lake LOL. He was so funny. We hung out around the campsite in the afternoon. I allowed the kids to finally play in the snow banks around our campsite because I wasn't fearful they would freeze to death. There were still a lot of campsites that were SNOWED IN. Yes, this is July, people.

This pic is alittle out of order, because I forgot to add it below, and it's a pain to move, so here it is...We were roasting marshmellows later after dinner. Liv didn't want to try one. I was trying to give her a taste and decided to be mean mom, and put it to her lips. She freaked out, as you can tell. Yes, I know, I'm out of the running for Mother of the Year. Blew that back in January-No worries here...

Ahh...Pure beauty!

I love this pic =)

Jake, climbing on some old tree trunk sticking up in the walkway.

The kiddos with Wizard Island behind them.

we went for a walk in our campground. This was snow on the side of the road. Craziness!

Jake and I playing pokerkeeno (notice the snow in the background and the fact that we're wearing shortsleeved shirts and a tank top LOL)

Liv, chillin'

Josey, standing in the snow, no shoes on.

Again, the kids with no shoes on. I take that back, Jake has no shoes, Liv does lol

Jake, "helping" Liv over the snow in our campsite. He SAID he was helping her, but what he was really doing was what I call "border collie-ing" or in layman's terms, forcing her to go his way no matter what because that's what he wants, not what she wants.

Want some snow, Mommy????

Now, this is the cabinet for the campers to put their food in...

We just used it to keep the kids in....

More snow, IN our campsite

Our campsite....

Yep, we were that close to FLUSHING toilets LOL

Our trailer =)

Friday, July 2nd-Day 1 at Crater Lake

2010-07-25T21:01:00.000-07:00

SO, Brett and I decided to take the kids to Crater Lake for 4th of July weekend. Back when he and I discussed this (which was back in December) we knew the snow took a long time to melt up there, but I don't think we even considered the fact that there would still be THIS much snow. I, as usual, obsessed over the weather forecast. To say I was thrilled that it was going to be over 70 while we were there would be an understatement. The day before we left, it said that Friday would be partly cloudy, chance of showers, and 68 degrees. Not bad, right? So, as we're driving closer, we start seeing bits of snow on the side of the road, that increased the further up the road. To say I was panicking would be an understatement. All I kept rolling thru my head was, "the damn weather channel lied!" I saw all my hopes for this being a fun vacation slide right down the hill, the closer we got.

This was how it was looking when we were climbing up to get to the camp site. I wish I'd thought it thru more, so I could've brought their snow boots. As it was, I was wearing Flip Flops LOL

First glance @ Wizard Island on Crater Lake! Beautiful, but man oh man, the wind was blowing and it was FREEZING! You could see the sun trying to make it's presence known, to no avail.

Another cool shot of the sun trying to break thru...

We got out to take pics, and Liv decided playing in the snow would be a good thing lol

This was what we saw walking down to the observation deck @ Rim Village. And we were told this was GOOD lol

Later on in the afternoon, this is what we saw-Finally! Sun is out, and things are looking UP! Can you believe how blue the water is? It's unbelieveable.

Ahhh...Beautiful!

Thursday, July 1st-Jake attempts to wear my roller blades...

2010-07-16T22:14:00.000-07:00

Jake's become slightly obsessed with my roller blades. They are in my closet and he always tries to put them on and wear them. Brett and I were across the street, talking to the neighbors and all the sudden, here comes Jake, in his boxers, wearing my roller blades. The poor kids tries and tries, but gets no where. I had to chase him into the house (without the roller blades on mind you) so he didn't break anything before we left for Crater Lake LOL

Saturday, June 26th-Parade Day!

2010-07-16T21:57:00.000-07:00

This is why I love my town. The shut down 3rd Street (the "Main" road going thru town) for the parade they have for the Crooked River Round Up (ie the big event-The Rodeo lol) I just love the fact that they do these kinds of things. You don't find that too much anymore.

The kiddos, waiting patiently for the parade to start

Waving at the horses

Me and my boy =)

So, afterwards, we decided to go to the park, where they had a festival, live music, etc, for the kids. Jake and Liv had fun, but were ah...alittle crazy. Can you tell?

Liv and her friend, Sammy, were rocking out to the live music lol

Wednesday, June 24th-So...tired...can't...make...it...

2010-07-16T21:50:00.000-07:00

On my way home from picking Liv up from the sitter's, she fell asleep. Now, mind you, the sitter is literally 6 or 7 minutes from the house. Apparently she played very hard. She fell asleep 2 blocks from the house. I got her out of the car. She walked thru the garage, laundry room, then laid down right in the playroom. Why she grabbed the table, I have no idea, but I find it mildly amusing.

Thursday, June 10th-My Mud Puddle Girl

2010-07-16T21:32:00.000-07:00

I was outside, talking to my neighbor across the street. Liv decided to join me outside. It had just rained, and Liv was insistent on playing in the mud. I figured she'd get bored quickly, but no...
I don't have a picture, however, I found myself yelling, "DO NOT DRINK THE PUDDLE WATER LIV!". I swear...*sigh*

Mixing the mud

Stomp, Stomp, Stomp....

Little does she know, her Mama was the same way growing up. It's still hard for me to resist puddles after a good rain =)

Wednesday, June 9th-Jake's Last day of 2nd Grade (and his first day of K, first day of 2nd)

2010-07-16T21:08:00.000-07:00

Awww...a blast from the past...My baby's first day of Kindergarten. Look at how tiny he was!!!

And here's his first day of 2nd grade

and last day...

He's getting so big!!

Going Backwards...Wednesday, June 3rd-First/Last Day of Pre School

2010-07-16T20:41:00.000-07:00

Here's Liv on the first day of Preschool...

And on her last...She grew so much!

Tuesday, June 8th-Someone does NOT know how to put her swimsuit on correctly...

2010-07-16T20:35:00.000-07:00

So, it was warm, and Liv wanted to go outside in the sprinklers. Well, I gave her a swimsuit to put on (a 2 piece) and went about my business of hooking up the hose to the sprinkler. Liv came outside, with her top on as the bottoms, and looked very perplexed. She then looked up at me and said, "Mom, is this how it's supposed to go?" I seriously almost ate grass, falling over and laughing. It was SOOOOOOOOOOOOOO funny. I got her all fixed up proper and she went on her way. She hasn't made that mistake since ;-)

Sunday, June 6th-On our way home from Dilentment...and attempting a group shot LOL

2010-07-05T21:55:00.000-07:00

So, on the last day, we decided to get out and get a group shot but neither Josey nor I could find the timer on my camera. These pics are what were taken instead LOL.

So, if you look in the background, I am dusting off the imaginary ants off her pants, while she's screaming, and Jake is pointing and laughing. Can you just guess who told her she had ants on her pants???

Hello? Is this thing on?!?!?!?

Got it! NOPE, not this time....

Now, I am attempting it, and failing...The kids are running around, Brett is getting eaten alive by mosquitos, and I am getting aggravated.

TA DA!!! It worked!!! lol

Saturday, June 5th-Dilentment Lake day 2

2010-07-05T21:21:00.001-07:00

Day 2 started off way better than day 1. The kids played Battleship (which is way more sophisticated looking than the old version, but not made as well-shocking, I know) We had a pretty decent camp site, and NO MOSQUITOS!

We took Jake for his very first fishing trip. He was way excited. Josey and Brett fished, too. I sat back and enjoyed the scenery. Liv decided to go exploring. She thought the dead fish she found were cool. I'm just thankful she didn't decide to pick them up and play with them lol.
The kids, with their poles and tackle box, walking to go fishing. I had to call them back because it was too far to walk LOL

Josey, all hooded up, trying to fish. We never caught anything but had fun =)

Jake, trying his hand at it. He was more interested in throwing it out and reeling it in. Note, the beer by his feet is NOT his LOL.

Liv, helping "Grandpa Stan" reel in his fish. He caught 2 when we were there. He was just some guy, sitting on the dock, fishing in peace until we came along. Thankfully, he'd just had his grandkids there and didn't mind the intrusion.

When we got back, the kids were pretty insistent on going swimming in the lake. Seriously people, it was COLD! I think it may have been about 63 outside, but none the less, they were eager. We figured we'd let them get suited up and they would change their minds when they got down there. Little did we know they were tougher than we thought!

Josey, Jake, and Liv, all ready to go. Josey refused to pose with her life jacket on. Ahh, to be 12 again and care about that kind of stuff ;-)

Jake became a swamp logger overnight, apparently. He was loving these logs in the water. He and Liv stayed in the water long after Josey did. Of course, I had to stay down there, watching them, and freezing my backside off (though, there's enough to freeze off and still have some left over :p )

Jake, riding off into the sunset on his log LOL

Liv thinks everything is O.K. lol

Back at camp, I was loving that I had cell service, can you tell?!?!?!

There were holes in the fire pit. Jake delighted in sticking sticks in the holes, no matter how many times he got yelled at for it *sigh*

And ah, yeah...SO, we went down the road. We'd had so much rain, that the entrance to the campground was flooded from the lake over flow. The kids thought it was great (the road was about an inch or two deep with water) They are splashing around, having a good time, and I look over and see Liv, squating and peeing in the water! At first I thought, well, at least she didn't do it in her pants, but no, she did. Apparently she started to pee, realized she shouldn't, and pulled her pants down *sigh*

Here's my handsome river rat, playing with his plastic boat in the water. Both kids had SO much fun playing in this!

I just thought this was cute =)

Brett took Josey and Jake, separately, out to the lake to do some fishing at dusk. Josey caught her first fish!!! When Jake went, they were jumping all around, but Jake didn't catch anything.

Friday, June 4th-Camping Dilentment Lake day 1

2010-07-05T20:19:00.000-07:00

Brett and I decided to take the kiddos camping for the weekend. Let me define MY type of camping: I need 4 things: The ability to wash my face, my hair, my *ahem* important parts, and cell service. I have that, I am good.to.go. Brett has a trailer, which gives me the ability to have the first 3 things on my list. It's obviously hit or miss as to whether or not I have cell service. Thankfully, I could text from Dilentment Lake, though it was hit or miss most of the time, which keeps the masses amused while I lay out my trials and tribulations of camping with my wee willy ones ;-)

Brett and I, before the madness. The kids starting going crazy right after this. It was pure madness.

and because it was pure madness, we dug into our stash...

Liv playing soccer =)

Josey and Jake, waiting patiently to go. Nice glasses, Josey!

Awww, me and my pretty blondie =) Her hair is getting so long!

Ahh...the giant marshmellow. They were HUGE!!

A nice picture. Normally one, or both, are making funny faces (usually Jake-Josey doesn't like to take bad pics :p )

Peace, at last. You have no idea...Friday night was bad. I don't think Brett and I had enough alcohol to survive the whole weekend with these crazy nutballs.

Thursday, May 27th-SURPRISE JAKE!!!

2010-06-13T18:57:00.000-07:00

Blowing out the candles

The cupcakes =)

GOTCHA! (Dillon, Jake, Josey, Casey, Liv, Sammy)

Casey and Jake

I decided at the last minute to put together a surprise party for Jake. It came together really well! Jake was pretty surprised. The kids had to stay inside because it kept raining, which stunk, but what can you do??? I can't believe my baby is 8 yrs old already.

Saturday, May 22nd-Crazy Bathtub Kid

2010-06-13T18:54:00.000-07:00

Notice, she's in the tub with her "stuffed" animals LOL

Thursday, May 13th-Sleeping Beauties

2010-06-08T21:16:00.001-07:00

Josey decided to stay over. She wanted to sleep with Liv. I laugh, because both of my children are like sleeping with human hurricanes. It's almost impossible to share a queen with them, let alone a twin. So, I walked in to check on them, and this is how I found them.

Tuesday, May 11th-Where's Livvie?!?!?!

2010-06-08T21:04:00.000-07:00

Liv had an obsession with sleeping on the floor. Apparently she rolled under the bed sometime during the night LOL

Monday, May 10th-A Fun Drive Home

2010-06-08T20:55:00.000-07:00

Going into the abyss

Ahh...Fun...(this isn't even the worst of it)

I knew we were in for it, when we were sitting in the Black Bear Diner in Shasta City, and it started snowing. I figured, heck, that can't be good-and it wasn't. I'm thankful for DVDs (to keep the kids quiet) and lots of gum (Which I chew when I'm stressed) It wasn't as bad as it could've been, but 100 miles of white knuckling it is not fun.

Sunday, May 9th-Happy Mother's Day!

2010-06-08T20:43:00.001-07:00

Heather and I

Jake, Mom, me, Liv

Jake (giving thumbs up, go figure lol) Julia, Colton, Liv, Caitlyn, Mom, Dad, Sarah D. (and we're sadly missing Kristina and Kayden!)

John, Heather, Mom, Me (Just missing Todd!!!)

Heather, Mom, Me

Heather, Mom, Me, Patsy (Missing Ms Kelly!)

When we were in CA, we stayed an extra day to spend Mother's Day with the Fam. We had a great time, despite the rain that attempted to come down and "rain on our parade" lol.

Thursday May 6th/Friday May 7th-Hangin' With The Cousins

2010-06-08T20:34:00.000-07:00

Liv and Caitlyn @ the park.

Julia and Livvie

Sarah, Jake, Julia, and Livvie.

When we went to Cali, the kids got to hang with their cousins. They were all looking forward to hanging out together (or, as it would be, playing their DS's together) It's always fun to get the kiddos together (and us big kids, too!!!)

Friday, May 7th-Tramolining

2010-05-26T20:15:00.000-07:00

John and Patsy have a trampoline. I have to admit, I had a pretty good time on it, too. Jake and Liv loved it. We had to play "popcorn". Of course, I was the one who had to make them pop. Pretty easy when you out weigh your children by ALOT lol ;-)

Jake, copying me.

Not too bad for an old broad! =)

Thursday, May 6th-Water Fun @ Uncle John & Aunt Patsy's!

2010-05-26T13:22:00.000-07:00

We went to California for 5 days to visit John, Patsy & the kids, plus Heather, Alex and the girls. It was nice enough on Thursday for the kiddos to get in the pool (notice I say kiddos. It was 77, and windy. Still too cold for this old bag to get swimmin')

Swamp thing Livvy

The kids would go from the pool to the hot tub. Ahh, the memories...I used to do the same thing when I was younger =)

Pretty soon you won't need that life jacket, Jake!!

Ah, this is the life....

Tuesday, May 4th...She's a Beauty...

2010-05-26T13:20:00.000-07:00

One of Liv's many faces. The song from the Tubes "She's a Beauty" comes to mind when I see this. She's such a trip!

Monday, May 3rd...Let's Get Physical, PHYSICAL...

2010-05-26T12:54:00.000-07:00

Liv insisted on putting on her headband herself. The result? A mini Olivia Newton John from her notorious 1980s Physical Video. Though, personally, I think MY Liv is cuter. Wouldn't you agree?!?!?!

Monday, April 26th: Sleeping on the Floor Part 2

2010-05-02T18:25:00.000-07:00

I went to check on Jake the other night, and this is what I found-Funny enough, he cares so much about his stuffed animals, that they got more floor space than he did LOL He jammed himself into the corner. For some odd reason, he likes that.

Monday, April 19th-Ms Model

2010-05-02T18:15:00.000-07:00

I bought a dress for Liv to wear to my neice's First Holy Communion. I adore it! Livvie posed just like a model in the 2nd picture. So cute =)

Saturday, April 17th-Visiting Grandma & my very pregnant friend, Jennifer

2010-05-02T16:23:00.000-07:00

My friend Erin and I went to ID to bring some baby stuff to my friend, Jennifer, and I spend a little time with my Grandma. Erin and I had a great time-The weather was goregous (and a far cry from what we were living in) We really enjoyed ourselves all the way around. Erin and I were kid free, and we were able to see Jennifer for the first time in almost a year. Grandma looked great, though she's having troubles getting along now. It was a great weekend!

Tuesday, April 13th...Kid in the Closet

2010-05-02T15:34:00.000-07:00

Literally...not figuratively ;-) Went in to check on Liv for the night. Walked in her room and was shocked to see her NOT in her bed. She decided sleeping on the floor is a fantastic idea (see previous post on sleepover) I panicked for a second, because I couldn't find her. I had no idea she'd be on the floor. I picked her up and put her in her bed. Went to get her in the am...she was on the floor again. The next night? Same thing...I gave up. IF you want to sleep on the floor, more power to you. There are so many things to fight over, this one is a battle I don't care to have lol

Monday, April 12th-Jake's first Coach Pitch Game

2010-05-02T15:20:00.000-07:00

Jake had his first coach pitch game today. He did AWESOME! 2 for 2. The only problem I can see, is that he tends to hit the first ball out. He needs to learn some patience ;-) Other than that, the kid has some hand/eye coordination to die for! I wish that I had it as good NOW, as he does. As you can see by the pictures, the day started off sunny and warm. We were running around with no jackets, sunglasses, and having a great time. By the time the game was almost over, we had jackets, scarves, hats, gloves on. It was amazing to me, but typical for Central Oregon, at how quickly it all came about.

Easter (April 4th) Mmmm....Olives....

2010-05-02T15:07:00.001-07:00

Going back alittle...Liv has decided she has a new love: Olives. Specifically, black olives. If you let her, she'll eat a whole can. Like every kid, she loves to put them on her fingers, and eat them off. Isn't she cute?!?!?!

Saturday, April 10th: Party in Jake's room!

2010-05-02T14:45:00.000-07:00

SO, since Jake got his loft bed, he's been wanting to make a tent. So, I decided the kiddos could have a sleepover in Jake's room (which sprialed into them wanting to sleep on the floor nightly, but you'll see that in another post lol) The kiddos ended up watching a movie and falling asleep. It took them FOREVER to fall asleep. Actually, I think Liv watched the movie, and Jake played his DS lol.

April 9th: Bouquet from my Babies

2010-05-02T14:27:00.000-07:00

The kids had a day off from school, and it just so happened to be nice outside, so I was able to send them to play. All the sudden, they kept coming in, telling me they were picking me some BEAUTIFUL flowers. I didn't have the heart to tell them they were weeds. They'll figure it out when they get a home of their own, and they're on the ground, with their weed picker thingy, grumbling about how they seem to multiply almost hourly. Until then, I will let them live blissfully unaware =)

April 2nd-Coloring Easter Eggs

2010-05-02T14:02:00.000-07:00

Jake, spinning eggs like Picaso (yet again lol)

Showing off what he made

Liv, really intent on painting a good egg.

We went to decorate eggs. I didn't pay attention to what I bought, and realized, to my horror, it was paint on, instead of the regular ol' vinegar and die tablet in water deal. To my surprise, the painting of the eggs went very, very well. The kids enjoyed it alot, and so did I! The clean up was easy, and the eggs turned out great =)

And when you get a new loft bed, what's the first thing you do??

2010-03-31T15:59:00.000-07:00

Why, it's go over the side, of course!! Apparently, I can't leave Josey and Jake alone anymore ;-) (she's the camera woman lol)

Going off the edge:
Jake to Josey "HELP ME!" lol

Ahhh, I'm back!!

Me? *sigh* that's what I said when I downloaded these pics. I guess I should be thankful he didn't fall on his head or anything...

Tuesday, March 30th-Jake's New Bed!

2010-03-31T13:04:00.000-07:00

I was going to buy Jake a new bed because the one he had was falling part. I started looking at loft beds, because Jake desperately wanted a desk in his room, and there wasn't any room for one, so I figured the loft bed would be the way to go. They were so expensive, then Brett said he could easily make one. I think, in total, this cost about $125, plus it's handmade. You can't beat that with a stick ;-). Jake adores it. He's already got his desk filled with legos. I bought him a bunch of stuff for his desk (pens, etc) so he could also do all his workbooks that he loves to do there.

View from the door:

View going up the ladder:

Monday, March 29th-Like Father, Like Son.

2010-03-31T11:39:00.000-07:00

except for the mouth breathing part...Jake, unfortunately, gets that from me.

Wednesday March 24th-A Visit to High Desert Musuem

2010-03-31T11:23:00.000-07:00

We went to kid's day @ the High Desert musuem last week. The kids had a blast, though Jake was getting over a cold, and Liv was just starting some weird virus thingy (though, after giving her motrin, she INSISTED on going since it was reptile day and she loves reptiles-I think, much to Hank's dismay lol) so they were both more tired than usual. They got to see lizards, spiders, turtles, eagles, a porcupine, all kinds of snakes, etc (yes, I am aware some of them aren't reptiles LOL ;-) ) They even saw a new sea otter that HDM aquired. He was sleeping, so we didn't get to see him in action.

Liv, looking thru the tube in the park area, looking for Jake.

I love this pic of Jake. He looks so cute!!

A semi decent pics of the kids posing in front of the Eagle statue. You should see some of the out takes (though, in my house, there are always out takes lol)

Me and the kiddos.

My sweet boy

Jake, building a paper snake.

Liv, her newest "I don't want to smile for a picture" face, making a paper snake.

Really, Jake??

2010-03-23T14:05:00.001-07:00

Jake's been at tennis camp this week. He decided to put his tennis racket up to his head, and ask another boy to hit it with a ball. Of course, he prefaced it by saying, but not hard. Of course, the boy being a boy, decided to take the ball and smash it into Jake's face. So, he's left with a mark on his forehead and what looks like a soon to be black eye. It's difficult to have sympathy when kids do these things. I mean, really, what did you think was going to happen?!?!?!

Liv and her "stuffed" animals

2010-03-23T13:51:00.000-07:00

Liv has found a joy in those sponge animals in the capsules that you put in the tub and let them dissolve. She carries them around the house, and insists on a couple each time she gets in the tub. Jake had an obsession with them as well, so it's cute to see her do the same. She talks to them, creates stories, etc. She calls them stuffed animals. I was confused at dinner the other night when she said she wanted to take her stuffed animals in the tub with her. I told her stuffed animals don't belong in the tub, they'll get ruined. She looked at me so funny, until it dawned on me what she was talking about LOL

The Players of the Tank

2010-03-17T20:13:00.000-07:00

So, when Jake turned 7, Hank and I bought him some fish. Well, I went to the store intending to buy a fish or two, and came home with 2 frogs, 2 goldfish, 1 snail, and a Betta. 1 of the goldfish met it's demise (not on my watch, I might add!) and somehow, Liv's baby dwarf frog *ahem* disappeared a couple of weeks ago (yes, this one on my watch) Now, initially, I thought Happy, the snail, was gross. Couldn't stand to watch him work the tank. But lately, he's grown on me. He keeps the tank clean, and he's way cool to watch. He's grown a ton, too, since we got him. I didn't realize how much until we got a new snail (who's named Sunny-he's mine lol)

So, I thought it was time to name the players of the tank:

This is McQueen (who used to have Lightning as a buddy but well, he's no longer with us. RIP Lightning!) He's the fish I wish knew how to wipe himself. He's constantly swimming the tank with a long strand of poop hanging out, and it drives me bonkers.

This is Sunny, the blue mystery snail, and Happy, the golden Mystery Snail. Happy was the same size as sunny when we first got him!!

This is Jake's frog, Coji. Not sure where Jake got the name. Coji has been alittle angry since we got the new frog, so he's been hiding out instead of jumping around the tank lol.

This is Liv's new and improved frog, Princess (hopefully they are of the same sex because I do not want any baby frogs)

Here's Henry, the instigator, intimadator, bully-you name it, that's Henry. He loves to bully the snails mainly. I believe the snails are lovers and not fighters. Happy just drops off the side of the tank when Henry attempts to bully. I find myself yelling at Henry often (as if he can hear me. I'd like to believe he can, since he stops almost everytime I say his name-just call me the fish whisperer lol)

And this is a cool pic of Happy that I took. He's a cool looking dude lol. I thought I'd have to put different shells in as he grew, but apparently his shell grows with him.

Saturday, March 13th-To the Sportsman Show We Go!

2010-03-14T22:06:00.000-07:00

We went to the Sportsman's Show Saturday. We figured the kids would dig it because they got to paint a duck decoy and fish. As soon as we told Liv she would be able to fish, she was on it all the way. Once we got to the trout pond, Liv kept making me let go of her rod. She didn't want any help. I kept trying to tell her if she happened to catch one, she'd lose her rod, but she's pretty stubborn (wonder where she gets it from?!?!?!) Jake had a blast, too. Neither one caught one, but they still had fun =)

Liv, pulling on my shirt while waiting for Picasso Jake to finish his decoy.

Jake's decoy took alot of time and effort. I swear he eyed it for 5 minutes, invisioning the paint job before he did it lol. It was cute, though. He did a pretty good job! (this is when he was starting his duck) Isn't he so handsome???

Liv, on the other hand, wasted no time slapping the paint on LOL. Look at that cheeky smile!

March 12th-Family Movie Night!

2010-03-14T22:00:00.001-07:00

We decided to rent a movie, make some popcorn, and cuddle on the floor for a movie. We rented "Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs" The kids loved it. We had a great time, and I think it will become a regular attraction =) Liv is desperate to see Princess and the Frog, but there's talk of red eyes in there, and I'm not sure I am ready to open that can of worms LOL. Liv's been obsessed with "red eyes" for a couple of months. She comments on "red eyes" being on the side of the road. Hank tried to tell her the red eyes were happy animals-bunnies, deer, etc, but I'm still not sure she totally believes him lol. I've tried to explain it as well, but you know. She's 3, and she's going to believe what she wants to believe LOL.

March 10th-Olivia writes her name!

2010-03-14T21:57:00.000-07:00

OK, so she's been practicing, but she finally did it legible ( though I think she had help with the a because it doesn't quite look like the a's she writes) Usually, the L I V I are just lines lol. She's getting there!

Monday, March 8th-Crop Circles in Jake's room?

2010-03-09T18:15:00.000-08:00

So, I walked into Jake's room to shut his light out (he fell asleep with it on) and I saw this. I about died laughing. Only Jake would do something like this in his room. He's such a crazy loon. I asked him the next day what it was. He said he was making a track for his race cars (if you make the pic bigger, you can see them at the tail end) But notice something else: His room is just about clean! He may have got some of Hank's genes after all! (cause clean wasn't my style at his age lol)

Sunday, March 7th--My Sweet Kids

2010-03-09T18:12:00.000-08:00

The Sweet Faces

The Silly Faces
And the obligatory one of Liv attempting to poke Jake in the face lol

Need I say more???

Friday, March 5th-Look at those CURLS!

2010-03-09T18:09:00.000-08:00

Liv had just woke from a nap. I couldn't get over how curly her hair looked! She's only had 1 trim. I'm so fearful the curls will go away. I hope they stay =)

This is what happens...

2010-03-09T17:59:00.000-08:00

when you're 3 yr old finds the scissors. I'm just thankful she didn't think to cut her hair. The scissors are now put up higher than they were before.

Thursday, March 4th-Basketball Stud Jake

2010-03-09T16:00:00.000-08:00

Making a shot!

Dribbling and keeping the boys at bay ;-)

Blocking his man and taking it serious!

Help! I'm surrounded!

Jake is getting so good at basketball. I'm really impressed with his progress. He actually looks like he knows what he's doing (and he loves it, which is a bonus lol)

Sunday, February 21st-Peaceful Sleep

2010-03-09T15:56:00.000-08:00

How is it that they can wreck so much havoc when they are awake, but look like angels when they are sleeping???? (can you tell she likes books???)

February 19th-The Sick Princess

2010-03-09T15:49:00.000-08:00

You can't tell by the big smile on her face, but Liv was sick with a cold (which, that weekend doubled as a fever, belly ache, etc, while with Hank). She wasn't feeling well, so I told her she could lay in bed and "read" some books. Jake came in later and decided to read to her. Isn't he sweet???

February 18th-Soccer Foofs

2010-03-02T20:01:00.000-08:00

Well, Liv is finally old enough to do something thru Parks n Rec. She's been dying to start playing soccer. She likes it alot, but doesn't like to take direction from me (and, as a parent, we are supposed to be out there, helping) Thankfully Jake's been thru 3 yrs of P n R soccer, so Coach Gina knows me well =) She gets Liv going and Liv listens to her much better than me lol. Doesn't she look cute??

Memorable Facebook Posts For February (so far lol)

2010-02-18T21:41:00.000-08:00

1st:

Olivia apparently thinks syrup is a hand lotion...

8th:

I just realized I've been wearing my shirt backwards all day

Jake just informed me that inded, he can talk with his eyes closed! It's amazing! Yes ladies, that just goes to show some men CAN multi task!! :p

Jake also informed me that he's the teacher and everyone in this house has a new name. Apparently we are to answer to McWeenie. Lovely...

9th:

I can't believe I just told Jake, "You are not allowed to put any writing utensils in any hole in your body!" after watching him put a pencil in his ear and nose.

Jake said to me on the way home from school, "You know Mom, I love you so much, I sometimes feel my heart will break because of it." Ok, so seriously? What a heartbreaker! Watch out when he's a teen ladies, he's gonna be a smooth talker, I can see it already (we already have the 'talker' part down!)

12th:

So, Jake is yelling, "Ewww Liv, don't!" I walk into the bathroom. Liv has her head practically in the toilet. When I asked her what she was doing, she said she was watching her poops go down. Ahhh, I love my life lol

14th:

I want to know why there was a half eaten chicken nugget on the bathroom floor...

15th:

I want to know what possessed her 3 yr old to put 13, yes 13, pennies in her mouth. I mean, really??? Seriously??? *sigh*

also want to know what possessed her 7 yr old to create a character in his Mario Kart game called "bullshit". *sigh* Guess who got his DS taken away??

16th:

So, Jake is chatting with me on FB. Yep, he's like 11 feet from me, but yet, he has to chat with me lol. The best part? He's saying out loud what he's typing. He's so cute =)

18th:

Liv just handed me my bra and said, "Mommy, here's your big boobie boobie holder hee hee hee" Gee, thanks Liv. Of course, she had to hold it up to her chest as she was doing it lol

February 14th-Josey Rides the Inch Worm lol

2010-02-18T21:12:00.000-08:00

Josey and Jake were messing around on Valentine's Day. All the sudden I hear either Jake or Josey say something about an inch worm. I turned around and saw this:

Jake was inching across the floor with Josey on his back lol

February 7th...Playing in the Mud

2010-02-18T20:57:00.000-08:00

Super Bowl Day...and my kiddos were more interested in mud than football. We had it on. It grabbed Jake's attention for about 5 minutes, then they both wanted to go play outside. I forgot about the mud in the corner. Of course, my children, being like me in some ways, migrated right for the mud. I looked out and before I could say anything, the kids were mixing mud soup in their little wheel barrel. They had a great time. Little do they know that spot is my garden spot and their mud pit will be gone by Spring. I will let them have their fun for now ;-)

Liv, before coming in the house. I made her strip at the door lol

getting mud for her mud soup.

Jake, forever posing, while mixing his soup lol

The grand mixer

Twisting in the mud

Monday, February 1st-Mermaid Foofs

2010-02-16T21:26:00.000-08:00

So, Liv was fighting me to get her jammies on. She decided she'd do it herself. Well, she wasn't paying attention and ended up putting both her legs into one pant leg. She thought it was pretty amusing and was hopping around like a bunny (well, until she fell lol)

January 30th-Sledding!!!!

2010-01-31T20:34:00.000-08:00

Jake's first trip down the hill!

Me and the kiddos

Me and Brett :-)

Jake, smiling after tubing

Liv, taking a rest after chasing after Jake lol

Me and my handsome boy =)

Me and Liv coming down the hill. It looks like she's falling off, but she's not lol

Jake, after going down hill. He decided to take a rest lol

Liv and Josey

Jake, being pulled by Brett for the first time. He loved it!

Josey, being pulled by Brett

Liv, all dressed up and bundled tightly. The day really wasn't that cold, which made it nicer to be out!

Brett and I decided to take the kids sledding today. We took Josey, her friend Megan, Jake, and Liv. Jake went sledding before, but only in our yard, so nothing fancy. Brett loaded up his 4 wheeler, and we went up McKay about 25 minutes and went sledding. The kids had a blast. At first, Jake didn't want to get out of the truck lol. He was scared. But, my baby took the sled and went up the farthest point, and went down, without anyone begging him to do it, etc. First thing he said when he got down was "Awesome!". Then he was hooked! Liv, just like her Mama, asbolutely loves the snow. She did face plants and didn't even care. When it was time to go, she asked why LOL. She's one tough cookie! That's my girl =) Josey and Megan had a good time, but they were done after about 45 minutes lol. They hung out in the truck and drank hot chocolate =)

January 27th-Ah, the Memories!

2010-01-31T20:12:00.000-08:00

I found my old Crayola sleeping bag awhile ago. My sister and I had matching ones. We thought we were so cool. I had it stored away. Once I moved, I showed Jake. He went crazy! He loves it. He sleeps with it a couple of times a week. It's so sweet to walk in and see him in it. It brings back so many memories

January 24th-Dum Dum

2010-01-31T19:13:00.000-08:00

There are a few things I'm pretty intolerant about-One of them is using any words that all boil down to one: stupid. I hate that word. Yes, I use it often to describe things, objects, etc, however, I rarely call someone stupid (unless they really, really deserve it lol) I don't like anyone calling me stupid, or any word that can boil down to stupid, and I refuse to allow my children to do it to others as well. Jake knows this. We've had many discussions on the subject. So, the other day, Jake was being feisty, and thought it would be funny to write "Dum Dum" on an appt slip. Because of that, he had to write "I will not say Dum Dum" 25 times. Of course, look closely @ the word "will". You can tell he just drew a line to make the "l"s lol He's such a turkey...

Memorable Facebook Status Updates from the Week...

2010-01-17T19:13:00.000-08:00

Monday, January 11th:

I think Liv is becoming very creative with her words. While at Hank's this weekend, she hit Jake. After being asked several times if she hit Jake, with her replying no, she finally said, "I didn't hit him. I pet him."

Tuesday, January 12th:

According to Jake, mistakes don't require punishment. Hmmm...Wonder if he's going into politics with Liv? ;-)

Wednesday, January 13th:

has to microwave frozen french toast sticks for Liv, only to put them back in the freezer to cool them down. Anyone else see the irony in that???

...needs to know what is wrong with my children. Seriously, are you THAT bored when you pee that you feel the need to bite the toilet paper roll??? (this is Liv)

...was pretty sure she was out of the "Mother of the Year" award, but it was solidified today when she forgot to get her youngest from pre school....

Went to get Josey because she was staying the night. Liv got into Josey's gluestick, except she didn't eat it. She thought it was chapstick and before I could stop her, she rubbed it all over her lips. Good thing it was non toxic!

Thursday, January 14th:

so, how is it that Jake can go in his room for 25 minutes, whining he can't find 1 of his shoes, yet, I go in, lift up 2 pairs of pants on the ground and find it right away?!?!?!?!

Friday, January 15th:

Loves getting a speeding ticket with both kids in the car, but what's even better? Listening to Jake yell from the backseat, "Mom, what did you do this time?" and Liv saying over and over again, "What the heck???" *sigh* Happy Friday...I need a drink...

Liv was helping me with laundry tonight. I was hanging some stuff up to air dry. She grabbed a pair of my underwear and said, "Whoa Mom! These are big! They must be yours!" Gee, thanks Liv...

I live such an interesting life =)

January 16th-Can't a girl just sleep with her stuffed animals??

2010-01-17T19:08:00.000-08:00

So, I washed Liv's bedding yesterday. I washed her sheets, but didn't get her comforter done before naptime. She asked to have her stuffed animals back on her bed (she has a ton) and I told her once her comforter was done, that she could have it back on her bed. She seemed totally ok with that. I gave her 2 small animals, and left the room. Well, Josey went to check on her later, and she had decided to get on the floor with her stuffed animals, since they couldn't come to her lol

Tuesday, January 12th-Just...Ewwwww...

2010-01-13T14:05:00.000-08:00

What's he doing, you say? Yep, biting his toe nails. YUCK YUCK YUCK! I had to take the pic for his future girlfriends-Love you, Jake! Don't hate me when you're 16!

Monday, January 11th. Little Ms Sneaky Pants

2010-01-13T13:58:00.000-08:00

Liv is supposed to stay in her bed at night, but she manages to sneak into Jake's room at least once a week. It drives Jake nuts because she always wakes him up. But boy, she loves him so. How can she be denied? =)

January 8th-Freezing Rain Doesn't Always Leave Destruction...

2010-01-13T13:39:00.000-08:00

It can leave beauty, too. I was dropping something off at my mother's and as soon as I got out of the car, I was struck by the frozen beauty around me. I was lucky enough to have my camera with me so I took some pics!