Boyish Grins ... and Girlish Giggles!

17 Months

2012-01-12T14:18:00.006-05:00

Eliza is 17 months old today. While for most this is not a significant milestone, for me it offers some really precious insight and perspective. My parents met me for the first time ever, fresh off a flight from South Korea, when I was exactly 17 months old (to the day, in fact). It's a strange juxtaposition - she and I at this age. On the one hand, it feels like we've known her forever - we've formed an unbreakable bond, she is unmistakably ours, and we know her in ways that nobody else ever could. And on the other hand, I have no memory of my life before being adopted, and I can't imagine feeling more "bonded" to parents than I do to my own.

So, I'm just left feeling incredibly grateful that I have a glimpse of what I might have been like at 17 months: how big I was (Eliza is about the size I was when my parents got me), how much I might have been talking/communicating, whether I had favorite songs like she does, etc. (I should mention that, unlike Eliza, I was pottytrained at 17 months!)

We always knew she was a gift from God, as all children are, but today is an unexpected gift that I'm so thankful for.

Comfort & Joy

2012-01-05T15:28:00.021-05:00

The week before Christmas was busy. We had some friends over for a Polar Express PJ, Pizza, and Popcorn Party; the boys and I went to see Rudolph at the Center for Puppetry Arts; and we made our annual trek to ride the Macy's Pink Pig. You'd never guess that we stood in line for one hour and 45 minutes to ride this #@* pig!!!! (I had to keep reminding myself to keep the Christmas spirit ... because it had left me about 20 minutes in).
The "Pink Princess" on the Pink Pig.
The kids indulged me with an everyone-looking-in-the-same-direction-and-no-crazy-expressions group shot before we left for church on Christmas Eve. (Which, seemingly, also comes but once a year - merry Christmas to me!)
Church steps.
Before heading off to bed.

Of course, Santa came and the boys were thrilled. Some of their favorite gets:

An aquarium! (Nevermind that all three fish were sucked up against the filter in a not alive anymore kind of way the very first morning after getting them. Oy.)

Since Santa knows we're not a gaming household, he brought B an ipod full of his favorite music.

And E, of course, received all sorts of girlie goodies.

The day after Christmas, we headed up to Michigan. Thankfully, we got some snow while we were there and the boys got to sled, throw snowballs, and make snow angels. Most importantly, we got to spend lots of time with family.

At our annual Christmas pool party, Booma read a story about baby Jesus' arrival.

Then she lit the candles and we sang happy birthday to Jesus! Eliza, who had a double ear infection and a 104-degree fever the day before, was happy to suck down Daddy's milkshake (which Papa thought was hilarious).

And on New Year's Eve, the kids had a silly string celebration (which I'm sure my Mom is still cleaning up from).

Happy 2012!

Holiday Fun

2011-12-12T11:58:00.025-05:00

We've had a lot of holiday fun the past couple of weeks - picking out our tree, visiting Santa, making a gingerbread train, seeing the Christmas show at the symphony, and on and on. Here are a few highlights:

Children's Christmas Concert at church. Ben was in the "Amazing Grace Race," thus the running clothes.

Noah playing his tone block.

No tears! Eliza wouldn't smile, but no tears! (Perhaps it was because she couldn't see from underneath her hat?)

It's snowing (sort of)!

Eliza didn't know/care that it wasn't real.

Fun with fake snow!

A Day of Thanksgiving

2011-11-30T13:48:00.014-05:00

While it's true that we have much to be grateful for in our lives, this Thanksgiving we were mostly thankful for the fact that we were given a brief reprieve from the terrible, horrible, no good, very bad stomach bug that plagued our house for the days surrounding it. So, while we spent the rest of the holiday weekend sprinting various kids, and then ourselves, to the bathroom in what was a veritable puke fest, on Thursday we were healthy and thankful to be spending a gorgeous day at Aunt Julie Ann and Uncle Justin's "farm" - their soon-to-be first home as newlyweds!
Daddy and Uncle Robert give Grandpa, Aunt Julie, and Eliza a push on the swing.

Noah seems right at home on the farm.

Uncle John takes a turn at the wheel.

After a picnic meal, we walked down to the creek.

The boys went "fishing" with sticks,

and Eliza got tossed in.

Uncle Joseph gives E some love.

Uncle Justin and Noah racing back.

Aunt Julie and Uncle Robert

Peeking through the window from the loft of the cabin that Justin is building for Julie and him to live in after their wedding in January. It's really amazing.

We had a fabulous day with family, which is what it's all about!

Happy Birthday, Papa!

2011-11-14T14:08:00.007-05:00

Today my Dad turns 70. If you spend any time around him at all, you know that that's hard to believe. Ever the tinkerer, he still loves to play with his "toys" (mostly tractors these days), chase down a "good deal," and of course, spoil his grandkids. Dad and Me, 1975
December 2000

Papa and Ben, July 2007

Papa and Noah, July 2007

Papa and Eliza, October 2011

Happy birthday, Papa! We love you!

Fall Festivals and Halloween 2011

2011-11-02T16:27:00.023-04:00

October has become jam-packed with fun fall activities. My friend said they should just cancel school in October in order to fit everything in. While I myself am happy to send the little darlings off every morning, I do agree that it's a lot ... but SO MUCH fun! Last weekend we went to Noah's school fall festival where he was transformed into a ... ferocious tiger!
Ever seen a tiger riding a pony?

Eliza was thrilled to take her first pony ride. Now the real question: Will Daddy be buying her a pony for her second birthday? (I assure you the answer is no.)
Noah loved the petting zoo ...
Eliza was less enthusiastic.

Last week we also had our church fall festival.

Eliza seemed a little appalled that we would dress her up like a strawberry and take her out in public. So humiliating.

But when she got over herself, she had a great time.

Of course, there were lots of treats,

and games ... and what do you know?

More ponies! (Ever seen a shark ride a pony?)

One of Noah's classmates had a Halloween party last week with lots of backyard fun.

And on Halloween day, his class paraded around the school in costume ...

On Halloween night, it's tradition to have our great friends Ava and Eli and parents over for dinner and, of course, trick-or-treating!

I think this was year 5 with this growing (in number and size) gang.

Enjoying the fruits (er, candy) of their labor.

Count Shark-ula!

The Story of a Bracelet

2011-10-25T11:07:00.003-04:00

This is my mom at 6 months (circa 1944). She is wearing a baby bracelet that her mom lovingly dressed her in. My mom lost her mother as a young child, and her baby pictures have always been a special reminder of how well-loved and cared for she was. For my wedding in 2000, I wore the baby bracelet under my dress as my "something old."
And this past August, Eliza wore the bracelet for her one-year pictures.
Thank you, Edna Walin Bennett, for this wonderful gift.

Three Little Pumpkins

2011-10-16T13:22:00.007-04:00

Perfect fall days are hard to beat. Yesterday (one such day) we made our annual trek to the pumpkin patch.
Eliza quickly picked out her favorite,
but found out it was harder to pick UP than pick OUT.

And yes, we do have a hair bow for every occasion.

Soapbox Derby!

2011-10-05T17:01:00.021-04:00

Our neighborhood held its first annual soapbox derby last Saturday. A couple weekends ago, Jess and the boys began construction on team "Double-Dare Davises" car.
Eliza wanted in on the power tool action.
The boys take it for a test spin, with Eliza as their hood ornament.

The following weekend, Ben and Noah gave the car a custom paint job. (Before heading out camping. Is Jess campaigning for Dad of the Year?)

Our final derby car!

Race day with our good friends, Sawyer and Jackson.

The super-cool Lightning Lees!

(Yes, that's a hollowed out log. And yes, they won in the creative category.)

Team 3-D fanclub.

Cutest cheerleader ever.

It was awesome that Aunt Julie and Grandpa came to watch the big race.

Getting ready at the starting line.

And they're off!

So, we didn't break any speed records, but we had the BEST time. Can't wait to do it again next year!

Camping ... again

2011-10-05T16:44:00.005-04:00

So, as Jess's luck would have it, Ben's class organized another camping trip this fall. With Eliza as a really good excuse for me to stay home, it was just the guys on this adventure. Jess and I had talked about "loose parenting" on the camping trip, which translated into exploring the river fully clothed. What little boy wouldn't LOVE this?

Jess texted me this picture, to which I replied, "Who is this?" His answer: "Your second oldest child." Needless to say, they had a great time.

Look Who's Walking!

2011-09-08T10:18:00.005-04:00

Yesterday I was in the office and Ben yelled, "She took a couple steps!" I came running into the playroom and indeed, our little girl took a few more. I ran and grabbed my phone and was so glad to catch these first few steps on video.

Jess and I had just gotten back two days before from our first-ever trip without the kids. I'd wondered all weekend if we were going to miss her first steps. It was so sweet of her to wait until Mommy came home!

First Days of School!

2011-09-08T10:10:00.006-04:00

This is a catch-up post, so let's go back to August 15, which was Noah's first day of Pre-K. He was so excited. His school has a really fun tradition of delivering yard signs before the start of school.

And then the following week Ben started first grade.
Wow - how do we possibly have a 1st grader?!

They're both loving their new classes and I'm having fun spending some girl time with Eliza.

Eliza's Birthday Celebration

2011-09-08T09:45:00.019-04:00

We celebrated Eliza's 1st birthday with a family party.
Eliza greets her guests.

In Korean tradition, on a child's first birthday, you hold a Toljabee ceremony where different items are placed before the child (book = scholar, knife = chef, rice = wealth, needle & thread = long life, ruler = talented with her hands) and the child's future is predicted upon what she chooses. We did it with both boys at their first birthday parties, and so we did it with Eliza.
She heads toward the items ...
and chooses the rice (wealth)! Jess and I figure this means early retirement for us.

With Uncle Joseph.

After lunch it was time for presents.

I'd underestimated the toll that her one-year shots she'd gotten the day before would take, and she was very sleepy by this point.

Looking like she might want to go to sleep with her new glow worm on her new "scooter."

No bedtime, though, before cake, of course!

So when we gave her her "smash cake," she was really quite preplexed as to why, instead of being put in her bed, she was being set in front of this big strange, round thing.

"Ooohh, I'm supposed to eat it?"

And she'd had enough.

She exited her party early in favor of a nap, but the rest of us continued celebrating for her.

Happy birthday, Baby!

Can't Believe Our Baby Girl is One!

2011-08-14T19:55:00.012-04:00

On Friday, our sweet baby girl turned one. My heart both swells and aches at what a blessing she is and how quickly the time is passing. She is just the brightest soul - complete joy. She adores her brothers and they continue their love affair with her. Noah tells me all the time, "I love our baby soooo much." And Ben can make her laugh like nobody else. She's developed such a fun, feisty personality and she is smart as a whip, imitating everything and signing words.

Eliza, you are a light in our lives, dear girl.

We had a family party yesterday - hope to post some of those pics soon.

Chicago & Michigan Trip

2011-08-04T10:27:00.034-04:00

We spent the last two weeks of July visiting my family in Michigan. We drove (I swear, we really are sane people), which made it possible for us to stay a few days in Chicago. It's such a great city, especially in the summer. We got into town around noon and drove directly to the Willis (formerly Sears) Tower.

103 floors up on "The Ledge," an overhang made completely of glass (including the floor) where you can look straight down to the street.
After the Sears Tower and lunch, we headed over to the lake (Lake Michigan).
While Noah and Jess played in the water, Ben, Eliza,and I took a walk/bike ride along the Lakeshore. Jess and I used to bike this path a lot when we lived there - it's beautiful, particularly with Michigan Avenue as its backdrop.
A highlight of the trip was being able to visit my dear friend since college, Jennifer, her husband Andy, and their two sweet girls Katelyn and Hannah. They were kind enough to let us stay with them, and the boys loved having some playmates. Here are the "big kids" snuggled up for a movie at bedtime.
The next day we took the commuter train back into the city and explored the Lincoln Park Zoo.

My favorite were the polar bears.

We walked all along Michigan Avenue after the zoo, and eventually Noah conked out in the stroller. He slept through dinner, so he had his Chicago pizza on the train ride back.

We finally made it to Michigan the following day. We had so much fun during our time there - amusement park, pool, sleepover at Auntie's, celebrating Noah's birthday, VBS, bike rides - but when you're on Lake Michigan in the summer, it's really all about the water.

Gladstone Lighthouse.

Escanaba Marina.

On top of the old Escanaba Lighthouse.

Booma and Eliza

Hangin' with cousin Austin.
I LOVED that Ben was able to go to Vacation Bible School at the same church I grew up in.

Rocking with Auntie Pam.

And visiting with cousin Ashley.

Bike Posse

Riding Papa's tractor.

The boys also loved going on 4-wheeler rides with Daddy, exploring the country roads by my parents' house:

On one ride, Jess stopped to take these pics of Noah by the "corm"

and horses.

It's always so great to be home and spend time with family!

Noah's 4th Birthday!

2011-08-01T13:56:00.017-04:00

Birthdays have a way of stretching themselves out around here. For Noah's 4th, we started in the first week of July with a playgroup pool celebration for the summer birthday kiddos. Then, because we were going to be in Michigan on his big day, we had a small celebration at home the week before we left. He got to open his presents from us,

including this, which was waiting for him at Booma and Papa's house in Michigan.

In Michigan, we had his official party a couple of days before his actual b-day. It was a joint celebration with cousin Kaylin, whose birthday is the day after Noah's.
He'd requested a Cars pinata way back in March, and had been waiting patiently ever since.
Birthday buddies Noah and Kaylin, who turned 8.

And finally (see what I mean about stretching out?), on his real birthday, we spent the afternoon at a family fun park with ...

go-carts, bumper boats,

and mini-golf!
We topped off the day with strawberry shortcake and another round of "Happy Birthday."

I think he feels sufficiently celebrated.

Superhero & Scientist

2011-07-29T20:50:00.007-04:00

Earlier this month, Noah spent a week at Superhero Camp and Ben a week at Science Camp. Noah learned useful skills like how to leap from tall buildings, pinpoint his laser, and fly through the air. On Friday, there was a Princess and Superhero Parade. While he had a great time, he was resistant to wearing any sort of costume (which does, in fact, hamper the Superhero vibe).
Perhaps he was going for the everyday man "Clark Kent" superhero look?

Ben learned all about space and rockets at his science camp. On the last day, we were able to watch the kids launch their rockets.

It was a blast!

4th of July

2011-07-29T20:42:00.004-04:00

What? It's the 29th of July, you say? Better late than ...
Actually, we were waiting for the parade and fireworks here, and about 2 minutes later the sky opened up and it stormed like crazy. So there was no parade, and the fireworks are now scheduled for September. So I guess, in a way, these pictures are early! I'm so on the ball.

Beach Trip 2011

2011-06-26T13:14:00.017-04:00

We got back a few days ago from our annual trip to the beach. It was fabulous - the boys did a TON of swimming (they actually learned to swim on their own on this trip!), we soaked up lots of sun, Jess took the boys crab hunting at night, we visited a favorite - The Track - with rides and games, and Jess and I actually got some down time in as well! We miss it already and can't wait to get back next year!

Last night dinner on the docks - see you next year, beach!

Birthday Party Fun!

2011-06-25T16:21:00.004-04:00

The boys have enjoyed some super fun birthday parties over the past few weeks. Last weekend, Ben went to his friend Abe's reptile party and met a few new friends ...
Wait, do I have something on my head?

And Noah had a great time at his friend Zara's Hawaiian birthday party where he was transformed into ...

Spiderman!

A Year in Pictures

2011-06-13T15:30:00.007-04:00

We celebrated Father's Day a week early because we're going to be be traveling next weekend. As a gift, I put together this slideshow for Jess. I'll say upfront that it's long (11 minutes to be exact), but it was so fun to go back and relive the past year through pictures - I was reminded how incredibly blessed we are.

Start of Summer

2011-06-13T11:31:00.020-04:00

June 3 was Ben's last day of school. He had such a fantastic year! With his teachers - Mandy, Britt, Heidi, and Donna.
After school, his whole class had a pool party. There was a little "graduation ceremony" for the kids in his class who are "moving up" to the big campus at his school.
I can NOT believe we have a first grader!

The next day we celebrated Ben's birthday (again) with a party with all his classmates.
We had a scientist come and do some interactive experiments. Ben was the special assistant. It was awesome!

Noah trying on his rainbow goggles.

Everyone got to make slime to take home.

My friend Jen made this amazing cake.

On Saturday, the boys started t-ball. We have a little St. Louis Cardinal and a little LA Dodger.

Play ball!

First Dance

2011-05-28T22:30:00.002-04:00

A Daddy, his girl, and a front porch.

May Catch-Up

2011-05-28T20:24:00.020-04:00

May has a way of whirling right past and before you know it, POW! It's May 28th and I haven't posted any pics. We've had a crazy busy month with tons of fun activities, and I captured it all on camera. Until yesterday. When I accidentally erased ALL my pictures from May. Erased. Gone. Eliza's PRECIOUS dedication at church? Gone. Her FIRST times crawling? Gone. The ONLY 6th birthday Ben will ever have? Gone. (Insert tears here.) Thankfully, we live in a digital age where I've been able to piecemeal the month together with pics swiped off of camera phones, friends, and teachers. They're not the best pics (those are all in some cyber trash can), but at least I have them!The boys took another camping trip with Ben's class. Eliza and I sat this one out and had a great girls' night at home.
Ben hangin' with his school buddies.

Last Sunday we had Eliza dedicated at our church. It was such a special day, and we were so glad to share it with Jess's dad, brothers, and sister.
It also happened to be Ben's 6th birthday!
Traditional birthday morning greeting.
After a celebratory lunch and presents, we had cupcakes, then Jess and Uncle Joseph took the boys for their first real golf outing. Well, it was actually to the driving range, but it was their first non-mini-golf experience.
Thanks to Ben's pal Grayson for lending us his clubs!
Fore!

The next day we celebrated with Ben's friends at school,
and the following day with his friends at playgroup.

He also had a cool field trip with his class last week. They all walked to a neighborhood restaurant for Mickey Mouse pancakes!

Whipped cream squirted directly into mouth? Best. Field. Trip. Ever.

Yesterday we had a family picnic with Noah's class for his last day of school. He had such a fabulous year with his amazing teachers, Margaret and Mubarka.

And today we spent the morning at the arts festival, where Eliza got to wiggle her toes in the grass.

She's crawling and pulling up a lot these days. I'll have to take some more pics ... and save them ... repeatedly.

Easter 2011

2011-04-24T19:09:00.026-04:00

So, I was definitely a bit camera happy this weekend, but I couldn't help myself. The kids had so much fun hunting for Easter eggs and I wanted to capture all the excitement. We started out yesterday with an egg hunt at a nearby park. Eliza was willing to sit for just this long with the E.B., and then she'd had enough (don't blame her, actually). As you can see, Noah's at that stage of really natural smiles for pictures.
But so darn cute, natural or not.

Then we headed over to church for a Spring Fling and another Easter Egg Hunt!

The boys had fun trying their hand at lacrosse.

Before making out with another gajillion Easter eggs.

And bright and EARLY this morning, they were up to hunt for the eggs and baskets the Easter Bunny had brought to our house.

E was a good sport and wore the bunny ears for the crazy lady with the camera.
Miraculously, we were able to get dressed and out the door for a beautiful outdoor church service that started at 8:45 am (I said we were up early).

Eliza waited until after church to check out her Easter goodies.

She was all about the new munchies,

and pacis! Who needs jelly beans?!

The day ended with a visit from Uncle Joseph.

Happy Easter!

Our "Eggs-tra" Fun Weekend!

2011-04-17T16:36:00.017-04:00

Okay, so the title is a bit corny, but it really has been a super fun weekend. Yesterday we met up with our good friends the Laurent's for an afternoon Braves game - Eliza's first! This morning we headed out of the city to visit "Midnight" the horse. Midnight is one of Ben's classmate's horses, and he visited Ben's class last Fall during "H" week. So today the whole class was invited to Midnight's stable to ride horses, visit the animals, and enjoy a picnic on the farm. It was a gorgeous day. The boys got snakes painted on their faces, and Noah got a spider painted on his hand - super cool in the 3-year-old world.

Then Noah hopped on and went for a ride.

The kids got to feed the horses. Ben was a little unsure (as he is in most new situations).

But he finally mustered the courage to get on Midnight. I don't think he was afraid of the horse as much as he was uncomfortable being the center of attention.

Once he was up, he did great!

We were really proud of him for overcoming his shyness.

This afternoon we had some Easter fun decorating Easter eggs on our back deck.

Can't wait for the Easter bunny!

Spring Break Staycation 2011

2011-04-11T19:05:00.034-04:00

Today the boys returned to school after a week at home. Full-time. With me. Since we are all still standing and relatively sane, I am counting it a success. Actually (and I never would have believed this before the week started), I quite enjoyed it! We kept busy with playdates, swimming, a trip to the zoo, indoor camping, bowling, tennis, and a climb to the top of Stone Mountain.

*Small disclaimer: Jess was kind enough to take off a few afternoons and took the boys on some of these adventures.

We kicked off our night of indoor camping with a backyard cookout and marshmallow roast. S'mores!

Eliza chillin' by the "campfire." Then it was off to bed in the tent (which was set up in their bedroom).

The week's culminating event was a climb to the top of Stone Mountain, an approximately 2-mile hike, and pretty steep at points. The boys did great, and Miss Eliza loved it. She rode happily in the Bjorn, and I happily toted her up and down the mountain.

Summit!

Six Months Old

2011-03-23T12:24:00.009-04:00

Our sweet Eliza girl.

Look! No Training Wheels!

2011-03-21T21:37:00.004-04:00

Last weekend Ben asked to take the training wheels off his bike. As soon as Jess gave him a push, he was off. He practiced a little while that first day, and then a little more yesterday. Such a classic childhood rite of passage. (Sorry - the video is sideways, but you get the idea.)

March Madness

2011-03-17T16:21:00.027-04:00

March is just half-way through, but it feels like we've done a month's worth of activities already. To highlight a few ...

Ben had winter break a few weeks ago, so I took the kiddos to the aquarium. We hadn't been in so long, and Eliza had never been before. It was such a fun outing!

Noah took this pic - not bad by 3-year-old standards.

The boys just finished a round of swim lessons, so we all headed to the pool a couple weekends ago for them to practice their new skills. It was Eliza's first time swimming.

She loved the water!

We commemorated E turning 7 months old last weekend by introducing her to finger foods - some baby puffs. After a few attempts, she did finally get one into her mouth ...
however,
she was not real keen on it,
and it came right back out. We've been practicing all week and finally, just today, she did actually keep a few Cheerios in and "chewed" them up.

And last weekend Ben had his first soccer game of the season.
After a slow start, he really got in to it! He chased the ball up and down the field.
Go Giants!

And, finally, some random Ben, Noah, and Eliza goofiness ...

February Feats

2011-02-19T13:56:00.012-05:00

It doesn't seem possible, but somehow Eliza turned 6 months old last weekend. And with that milestone came her first foray into solid foods. Oatmeal cereal - yummm (or at least she thought so).
" More, Daddy, more!"
"Y'all have been holding out on me!"

Another major event in our household has been the end of the paci era for Noah. We've been talking about giving them up for oh, about a year now, but things kept seeming to get in the way. We were adamant, though, that the pacis must go in the beginning of the new year. So, we concocted a scheme and convinced him that the new baby panda at the zoo NEEDED his pacis.
He happily holds them up just before handing them over to the panda.
He sets them down in front of the panda exhibit.
We explained that the keepers would come and give them to the panda. This all went surprisingly well ... until bedtime ... and every bedtime and nap since then. "I MISS my pacis!" he cries, "I don't want to be a big boy! I want to be a baby!" Not a fun process.

Ben has not had any major feats this month, per se, but he has had a ton of fun birthday parties and playdates.
He became a fire-breathing dragon at a friend's circus-themed birthday party.
And had a fun playdate at the zoo with his good pal Joanna.

Eliza Goes to Washington!

2011-01-22T12:49:00.016-05:00

Jess, Eliza, and I spent a couple of days in D.C. earlier this week. Jess was supposed to have a business meeting, but it was cancelled, so we had the whole time free to see the sights. And did we! Eliza was such a trooper. We walked that girl ALL over the city, and it was coooold. We saw the Capitol, the White House, all the monuments and memorials (6 to be exact), and a ton of museums (6 to be exact).

With a Renoir at the National Gallery of Art.

At the gates of the White House. They were getting ready for Chinese President Hu's visit.

Washington Monument. These pics crack me up. We have a bunch of them at various historical landmarks - her sleeping in her stroller - just for the sake of capturing the fact that she was there.

Vietnam War Memorial Wall.

Eliza and I on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. It was neat to be there on MLK Day.

Jefferson Memorial

Smithsonian Natural History Museum

And there was no shortage of fun back home for the boys with Aunt Julie Ann. Thanks, Aunt Julie, for taking such good care of them!

Snowpalooza 2011

2011-01-11T13:34:00.013-05:00

It started snowing late Sunday night, and by Monday morning, the city was shut down. We got a good 4-5 inches at our house ... Now, you Midwesterners might scoff, but that's a TON of snow down here. And to make things even more interesting, it started to freezing rain/sleet, which meant we weren't only snowed in, but ICED in as well. And still are, actually. We are on snow day #2. Nobody's working, the mail is stopped, roads are closed, and the stir crazies are starting to set in. Yesterday, though, was full of SNOW FUN!
Look closely - there really is a baby in there.
And this was the extent of Eliza's snow adventure. Not much fun when you can't even sit up yet.

The boys, however, had a blast.

Of course, there was snowman building.

And even sledding. We brought our garbage can lids down to the park, but some neighbors had actual sleds that they let us borrow. Give Southerners credit for their creativity. Some of my friends used recycling bins, planters, and even a water heater drain pan to sled!

The boys in action ... this was Noah's first run down the hill, and you can hear him screaming "the wrong waaaay!" as his sled spins around backwards ...

And while the boys were outside playing, Eliza was inside practicing her newest skill ...

We think she's gifted.

Christmas 2010

2011-01-03T16:30:00.024-05:00

I forgot to post this pic last time. The boys were so proud of their little gingerbread train that could ... A couple days before Christmas we headed to Columbus for the day to celebrate with family there. It was a special treat to visit Aunt Julie Ann's boyfriend's family farm ... Justin helped Noah feed the donkeys.

Aunt Julie Ann and Noah explore the creek. When they got back to Grandpa's, it was present time.
Grandpa got lots of sweet Eliza love.

On Christmas Eve, the boys looked so handsome for church.

Of course, Eliza had to get dolled up too.

When we got home, Ben wrote a note for Santa and we fixed him and his reindeer a plate of goodies ...

And while sugar plums were dancing, the Big Man arrived!

Christmas morning brought lots of excitement, with Santa coming through on much of their wish lists.

Eliza slept through most of the gift opening frenzy, but when she finally woke up, the boys were happy to help her open her presents.

There was snow accumulation in Atlanta on Christmas day for the first time in over 130 years. Such a treat for the boys!

That night they took their new Jeep out for its inaugural ride.

What a perfect day!

The next day we flew to Michigan to celebrate with family there.

Boomma was so happy to see baby E!

We had a Christmas pool party with all the grandkids (9 of them) ...

Eliza with cousin Kelsey.

With cousin Ashley - the oldest and youngest grandkids.

On New Year's Eve, Eliza was obviously excited to ring in 2011. She's got big plans this year - solid foods, talking, walking - it's major.

The boys and their cousin Austin had a countdown at about 7 pm, which didn't dampen their spirits at all. Happy New Year, everyone!

Holiday Cheer

2010-12-13T13:50:00.022-05:00

Since Thanksgiving weekend, we've been busy getting into the holiday spirit. Here's a sampling of some of our Christmas fun thus far: First Santa visit w/o Jess and I having to be in the picture - we did not care that Ben wouldn't smile. Baby steps, people.
"Snow" at Atlantic Station.

The Macy's (formerly Rich's) Pink Pig and hot cocoa are an annual tradition.

The boys had their church Christmas concert last week. Here's a short clip of some of Noah's "performance" - quite the ham that one. He's on the bottom right in red. Ben is on the top right in green, but for some reason your eye may be drawn to Noah ...

And one more of our growing girl!

Ride 'Em, Cowboys!

2010-11-17T15:45:00.006-05:00

We spent a gorgeous fall day last Saturday at Ms. Debbie's horse farm. Debbie is the children's pastor at our church, and she was so kind to invite everyone out for a day of fun on the farm!

The fresh country air put little Eliza right to sleep. We were so glad to have Uncle John and his girlfriend Kristen come spend the day with us!

And one more of E, just for giggles.

Halloween 2010

2010-11-09T13:40:00.016-05:00

It seems that Halloween has become a several-weeks-long holiday - pumpkins and parties and parades ... all leading up to the BIG night. At least the boys got some real use out of their costumes - they got to wear them to school, to a couple of parties, to trunk-or-treating at church, and, of course, for the main event.

Eliza slept through her first trip to the pumpkin patch. The boys happily picked one out for her.
Our little cowboy, SWAT police officer, and ...
blooming flower baby!

Playgroup Halloween Party - Year 6!

Ben's class from last year got together for some Halloween fun. Noah loved bobbing for apples - he was completely drenched afterward, as you might have guessed.

The boys had fun making pizza mummies one night for dinner.

On Halloween, as tradition has it, our friends Ava and Eli came over for dinner and trick-or-treating!

Getting ready to head out.

And reaping some of the rewards afterward.

Let the sugar high begin!

School Pictures

2010-11-07T15:47:00.004-05:00

School pictures have come a long way since I was a kid. No more mottled gray backdrops, Olan Mills style, thank goodness. Here are the boys' pictures from this year ...

Smiles!

2010-11-06T10:39:00.005-04:00

Ben helped me catch a few smiles on camera the other day ...
Eliza loves laughing with her big brothers!

Ben's Busy Fall

2010-10-26T19:21:00.006-04:00

So, I try not to be the mom who overschedules her kids (and I don't think I do), but Ben has had a very busy fall. In addition to serving as assistant coach for the Teal Turtles (see earlier post), he's been singing in the children's choir at church, taking a few cooking classes, playing tennis, and taking a class at our community garden (okay, so maybe a little overscheduled, but he loves them ALL). The children's choir sang during worship a couple of Sundays ago. The picture's dark, but Ben's on the left.
About to eat the "cowboy cookie" he made at cooking class. Our budding chef.
Ben's been doing a "munchkin tennis" clinic for about a year now, and he's showing great improvement!

Ben took the "Wild Things" class at our community garden last spring and wanted to do it again this fall. It's a sort of hippie, love-the-earth, peace-to-all kind of experience, and he LOVES it. He's tie-dyed shirts, made and eaten stone soup with herbs from the garden, dug up and eaten sweet potatoes, and eaten honey from bees in the garden. He informed me the other day that "apples give us love and light." Too sweet.

He picked me this gorgeous bouquet at garden class a couple of weeks ago - best flowers I've ever received.

Kickin' It and Camping

2010-10-11T19:31:00.016-04:00

A couple of weeks ago, Noah started soccer, his first-ever organized sport. Ben played when he was 3 and wasn't real interested, but we thought Noah might be more enthusiastic because this summer, as Ben was playing t-ball, Noah spent the entire season doing this: Poor guy. He was DYING to get out there and play. So now he has his very own team - the Teal Turtles.

Our little Teal Turtle at hist first game (and assistant coach in background).

Warming up. Not sure you can see, but the tongue is out, which means total concentration ... be the ball.

Last-minute tips from Coach Daddy. Then it was game time.

A bit of a slow start. "Where'd the ball go?"

But then he got into it, putting some moves on the opponents.

We'll have to work on the no hands thing.
Gooooaaal!Uncle John and his girlfriend Kristen came to watch the game last weekend. As you can see, Eliza's an avid soccer fan.

Right after the game, we packed up and headed out for our first-ever camping adventure. Ben's class does an annual camping trip, and we thought we'd give it a try (we are so NOT campers). We borrowed a tent and sleeping bags from some friends and set out. The boys were, to put it mildly, very excited.
The kids spent a lot of time "tent hopping" (think bar hopping on a 5-year-old level).

Sitting by the campfire with pal Catherine.

Eliza even made it out for her first camping trip. She and I headed home after dinner, though, because she didn't want to sleep in a tent. Sheesh - she's such a baby sometimes!

Waking Up

2010-10-04T10:11:00.010-04:00

Throughout the month of September, Eliza went from "sleep mode" to becoming much more awake and alert. She gave us her first smiles (I've yet to catch them on camera) and beautiful happy coos. And oh how she's growing! It's amazing how much she's changed in her short little life.
Excited about bath time.

She dressed out in support of the Bulldogs ... to no avail.

And the boys' love affair with their baby sister continues ...

Sweet Angels.

Eliza's First Photo Shoot

2010-09-26T19:34:00.012-04:00

When Eliza was just under two weeks old, my dear friend and extraordinary photographer, Marti (aka PictureMommy), took these photos. I love how they turned out.

Smitten

2010-08-31T21:47:00.004-04:00

The boys are completely smitten with little Eliza. They cannot get enough of their baby sister, telling her all the time how much they love her, and Ben has told us that he is going to protect her. It makes my heart swell to see them being so sweet to her.

Ben wanted to share his much beloved blankie with his sister.

And when I had to coax him away from her, he told me, "I bet God will watch out for her." There are no better words.

First Days of School!

2010-08-24T21:30:00.008-04:00

Yesterday Noah started 3-day preschool at the same fabulous school where Ben spent the last couple of years. He was such a big boy!
Walking into school.
And getting right to work on the stickers. He had a great first day!

And today Ben started Kindergarten at his new school. We've been talking it up all summer and he was very excited to finally get started,

One of his teachers helps Ben find his name to see which room he'll start the day in - the Art Room - perfect! Each day the kids start in one of three rooms - the Art Room, the Block Room (creative play), or the Middle Room ("academic" work).

Ben's new cubbie.

In front of his new school at pick-up. He's holding the popsicle stick airplane he made today - a total success!

The boys haven't both been to school on the same day yet, but I'm looking forward to that tomorrow! It's going to be a great year!

Introducing ...

2010-08-17T21:19:00.019-04:00

Eliza Tae (pronounced Tay, my Korean name before I was adopted), born August 12, 2010, 7 lb., 7 oz., 20 1/2 inches - absolute perfection!

Strangely, this was taken before the epidural.

The morning after her birth, Jess brought the boys to the hospital to meet their new baby sister! Noah helping "Big Panda" give Eliza a kiss.

Eliza gave presents to her new big brothers. Ben still wonders aloud how she got to the store so quickly.

The boys' faces in the next pictures say it all - they are IN LOVE with their new baby sister! And nothing could make my heart melt more.

This was my hospital room view for much of our stay ...

Nothing sweeter than a Daddy and his girl.

And then it was time to head home. Let the adventure begin!

Noah Turns 3!

2010-07-30T20:16:00.014-04:00

We celebrated Noah's 3rd birthday with a party at a local children's art studio. Noah and his friends created some fun birthday art, listened to stories, played with play-doh, sang and danced, ate snacks and cake, and had an all-around great time.

After two cupcakes, a sugary sweet smile.

On the morning of his actual birthday, Noah woke up to a birthday banner and balloon breakfast, a tradition at our house ...

After Ben's t-ball game, we headed to Bryson City, North Carolina, for "A Day Out With Thomas" on the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad.

Noah and Daddy with "the real Thomas!"

Thomas pulling us for our big train ride.

While it was fun, the memory I will forever have of this outing is how insanely HOT it was. This is what my thermometer read when we got back to the car ...

So, ice cream was definitely in order. Of course, we had to sing to our birthday boy one more time ...

Happy 3rd birthday, sweet Noah! Your last one as the baby of the family!

4th of July Weekend Fun

2010-07-08T20:44:00.007-04:00

It was a gorgeous 4th of July weekend here. On Saturday we took the boys to Centennial Olympic Park for their annual summer romp in the Fountain of Rings ...

And that afternoon we headed to Turner Field to see the Braves take on and defeat the Marlins. The boys always love to go up to the kids' area and run for home plate ...

The next day we headed downtown for the Pied Piper Parade ...

And then met up with some friends at church for the fireworks. While we waited for darkness to fall, the boys lit their first ever sparklers. A big hit!

Happy birthday, America!

Cape Cod

2010-06-29T21:28:00.064-04:00

Because of the oil spill in the Gulf, our annual beach trip took a twist this year. Lucky for us, we ended up on another coast a bit farther north. Thanks to our incredibly generous friends Amie and Rob who let us stay at their summer house, we spent a week on Cape Cod away from the suffocating heat, humidity, and mosquitos. We had an amazing time. While we did a TON ("Cape Cod on speed," as Amie put it), we also had time to relax and do things like visit the children's museum, paint some pottery, go cosmic bowling, and hang out at the beach. We're so thankful for these memories. (I'll warn you that there are a million and one photos, and it's just a fraction of what I took. Get your scrolling finger ready.)

On our first day there we took a scenic lunch train through the Cape. Such a cool experience for the boys ...

Of course we had to buy the cheesy picture they sell to all the tourists.

The next day we drove up to Provincetown. It's a colorful artists' haven lined with tons of eclectic shops and restaurants. The boys loved walking on the pier and checking out all the fishing boats.

Loved P-Town! (or pee-pee town, as the boys called it)

The next day we took the ferry over to Martha's Vineyard and it was one our favorite days of the trip. It seemed that everywhere you looked was a scene from a postcard - just spectacular. The boys, of course, thought the ferry ride itself was pretty cool.

Ben on the Flying Horses Carousel - the oldest operating carousel in the U.S.

Jess and I fell in love with Edgartown. We'd love to go back without kiddos someday.

Chillin' on the Vineyard.

Ferry back to the Cape.

It was a BIG treat when, upon arriving back in Hyannis, the captain opened up the doors to the cabin and let Ben and Noah sit up front in the captains' seats!

Later in the week we took the ferry to Nantucket. The island was incredibly charming. I kept telling Jess that it felt like we were on a movie set because everything was so picturesque. We strolled around downtown, but spent the majority of the day lounging on the beach. The weather was perfect.

Lunch on Jetties Beach.

More shells!

Quintessential Nantucket.

The following were taken in Hyannis on the first day of our trip. The weather was cooler then, but the boys loved exploring the harbor anyway.

In front of the JFK Memorial.

On our last day, we toured Hyannis and the marina aboard the Cape Cod Duckmobile. Ben and Noah still talk about the silly lady who made us say, "Quack! Quack! Quack!"

We spent the rest of the day at the beach, and of course, we had to have ice cream on our last night (as we had done practically every other night). Four Seas came highly recommended. It was really close to the house and the oldest ice cream shop on the Cape - SO yummy!

How every summer night should end!

Big Boy Bike!

2010-06-28T17:25:00.003-04:00

In his ongoing effort to keep up with big brother, Noah has graduated from trike to big boy bike!

Birthday Braves Game

2010-05-30T20:59:00.011-04:00

Ben chose to take a couple of friends to dinner and a Braves game over having a party this year, so last night we took his good pals Ava and Grayson out for one final birthday celebration. Good buddies.

And the 5-year-old silliness begins.
Dinner at Ben's favorite restaurant.

More goofiness at Turner Field.

Some frozen lemonade, a few foam tomahawks and #1 fingers, lots of giggles, and a Braves win later, we had three very happy and tired kiddos on our hands. Such a fun night!

Ben's Birthday Adventure

2010-05-23T21:26:00.025-04:00

Yesterday was Ben's 5th birthday, and it was extraordinary. With such a milestone, a parent could easily feel somewhat melancholy over the rushing passing of time and childhood's fleetingness. But with a day like yesterday, it was impossible to feel anything but pure gratitude, joy, and love. It was one of those days that's beautiful and shiny and perfect in every way (they're so rare, aren't they?), and makes you want to savor the memory forever. Thankfully, we have pictures to help us do so ...

Ben woke up for a festive birthday breakfast, before heading off to meet his ... ... own private jet! A former client of Jess's owns a plane and offered to let us use it to fly to the beach for the day.The pilots let him sit up front in the jump seat for a portion of the flight - doesn't get much cooler for a 5-year-old.A quick 45-minute flight and we were on Amelia Island. When we got there, we literally spent the entire day by the pool and on the beach.Lunch poolside.

Noah was happy to trade in his afternoon nap for some cuddle time with Daddy by the ocean.

Ben asked me, "Did you know that some species of turtles do not retract their heads?" (Which reminded me of, "Did you know the human head weighs eight pounds?" )

Finally, dinner with friends Chad and Leah and their four beautiful girls before heading back to the plane.

Happy birthday, sweet Ben! Thank you for letting us share this incredible day with you!

Playgroup Birthday Celebration

2010-05-23T20:36:00.007-04:00

Ben got a celebration warm-up earlier this week with a party for our playgroup friends who have May birthdays - Ben, Joseph, and Eli. Playing with buddy Joseph, who was born just a day before Ben at the same hospital!

We are so fortunate to have this beautiful circle of friends. Can't believe we've celebrated five years of birthdays together already!

Springtime at School

2010-05-23T19:57:00.019-04:00

Ben will be starting a new school next year. While we're really excited that he'll be there, we're a little heartbroken that he has said good-bye to his preschool. It's an incredible place that Ben LOVED in every way. We're so thankful that his teachers captured many of their springtime activities in pictures ... Daddy's turn as Mystery Reader.
A favorite activity was "fairytale theater," where the kids acted out different stories they'd read. Here is Ben as the Big Bad Wolf in Little Red Riding Hood (although not so big and not so bad).
Artwork creations are always unique and elaborate at his school. Here, the kids design and build castles from recycled materials.
A major focus of the school is outdoor education. Each class has its own garden, and the kids love planting, exploring, and tending to their plot of land.
Ben and friends use the flowers in their garden as inspiration for still-life drawings.
Examining an iris that the kids planted last fall.

The class used bamboo sticks to measure the distance around this plot. They discovered that each side was four bamboo sticks long - a square!

Spanish teacher Estela helps Ben find treasures in the garden.

Each student in his class had a fifth-grade "Nature Buddy" (or two) to explore the school's nature trail with. Here is Ben with his buddies Ben and Nic (whom he adored).

The kids used sticks and clay to build "fairy houses," which they then put out in their garden (because, as it would happen, there are many fairies living around the school).

One of the class's end-of-year field trips was to the flight school at a nearby airport. This was of particular interest to Ben because it happened to be the same airport that he'd fly out of a couple of weeks later (birthday post to come).

The class had a cookie decorating party before school ended. These were Ben's masterpieces - one for each member of our family, including "Sally" (what the boys are calling baby #3). He's insisted I keep her cookie for her until she's old enough to eat it - "Maybe in about 3 years."

Last day of school with his phenomenal teachers Stephanie and Sarah.

Root Children

2010-05-19T13:14:00.009-04:00

Ben's class has been studying forests and reading the book, "When the Root Children Wake Up." In the story, the root children have a masquerade parade at the end of winter. So, as part of their end-of-year activities, the class put on their own parade yesterday. The kids decorated their costumes and headdresses and created maracas using fruit seeds (Ben was a grasshopper, second from last in the video). They sang and paraded through the whole school. It was beautifully simple and spring-like. This is Ben's last year at the school, and we will miss its earthy, homey sensibilities dearly (although Noah will be there next year).

The class enjoyed a family picnic afterward, and then some fun play time.

Ben and pal Ava.
Noah sporting his new summer do.

Saturday Fun

2010-05-19T13:07:00.004-04:00

The weather was gorgeous last weekend, so we headed to Piedmont Park for some playtime Saturday afternoon.
Then we met our friends for a picnic dinner and live music at the Concert on the Square.

Eli, Ava, and Noah bust some moves.

Noah's ABC Song

2010-04-30T12:11:00.006-04:00

Noah's version of the alphabet ...

Noah's School Pic

2010-04-14T22:41:00.001-04:00

Noah's very first school picture. I could eat him up.

Disney!

2010-04-10T13:30:00.045-04:00

We just got back from our first Disney adventure with the boys. I admit that I was pretty hesitant when Jess first brought up the idea (too commercial, too expensive, too crowded, etc.), but it ended up being a truly wonderful experience - full of all that Disney magic.

We stayed at the Animal Kingdom Lodge, a terrifically fun place with tons to see and do.

Our first night there, the boys joined in on an African drumming parade in the lobby.

Then, of course, Daddy had to buy them their own African drums.
Our hotel room looked out onto the savanna.
This is what we saw off of our balcony. Not a bad view while lying in bed.

Ben thought a giraffe might lick him on his face while he was sleeping, and he was thrilled at the prospect.

Breakfast on our balcony, joined by some zebras and antelopes.

Animal Kingdom Lodge

We headed to Magic Kingdom the morning after we arrived.

The theme among most of the pictures is that it was impossible to get both boys to look at the camera at once (forget smiling), so I just gave up trying.

Dumbo!

Ben insisted we wait in line to meet the fairies, so here we are with Tinkerbell.

This was our first (of three) Disney parade.

While Noah loved all the music and characters, he wasn't so sure when they got too close.

Race car drivers Ben ...

and Noah!

Then it was time to meet the big man himself.

Mickey!

Noah said his hug from Minnie was, "Soooo nice."

We started Day 2 at Magic Kingdom with a visit with Pluto. And another failed attempt at a picture with both boys looking at the camera.

Parade #2

Aladdin's Magic Carpet Ride

After lunch, we decided to head back to the hotel for a nap for Noah, a little arcade time for Ben and Daddy, and some swimming. Then we headed to Downtown Disney for dinner.

Downtown Disney

After dinner we went back to Magic Kingdom for the nighttime parade and fireworks.

Waiting for the parade to start. It was getting late at this point and the boys were getting a little droopy.

The lights of the parade were spectacular, though, and they quickly perked up.

Waving to Minnie.

The fireworks didn't start until 10 pm, so the boys took a rest in the stroller while we waited.

But the show was definitely worth staying up for. By the end of Day 2, Jess had decided he wanted to live inside Magic Kingdom. I'm not sure I went that far, but it really was a magical experience that I'm so glad we got to share with our boys. We're thinking it may be a trip we do each time a kid turns 5. I guess that means 2012 - here we come!

The next morning was our last day, so we headed back over to Downtown Disney for a little more play time before getting in the car for the drive home.

Building race cars at the Lego Imagination Center.

And petting some Lego puppies.

Easter

2010-04-10T12:49:00.019-04:00

Easter was so much fun this year. We started the festivities the weekend before by dying Easter eggs, which the boys always get a kick out of.
Our finished masterpieces.
The day before Easter we headed to a local Easter egg hunt.

Ben was off running and gathered a ton of eggs.

Unfortunately, Noah didn't make out so well, but we experienced our own small Easter miracle - Ben, unprompted, gave a bunch of his eggs to Noah.

Some things, however, don't change. The boys are still not big fans of the Bunny himself.

The next morning, though, they were super excited to get up and hunt the house for all the eggs the Easter Bunny had hidden for them.

And eventually they found their baskets.

Then it was off to church for a gorgeous service on the front lawn.

Happy Easter!

Big Trucks and Braves

2010-03-27T15:08:00.020-04:00

Last Saturday was the city's annual Touch-A-Truck event. The boys love to sit on all the big rigs, honk the horns, and push the levers.
Ben's favorite was the garbage truck. He even got to press the levers to make the the scooper in the back work (a BIG deal for a 4-year-old).
But, in my opinion, the coolest thing was the inside of the SWAT truck.
Fireman Ben.

And, of course, they had to end up in the back seat of a police car.

This morning we headed to Turner Field for the Braves Open House. It was an awesome all-access experience. We toured the clubhouse, the press boxes, the dugouts, and even got to go out onto the field. It was a great time, particularly for Jess, a lifelong Braves fan.

We started out with a tour of the Braves Museum and Hall of Fame.

In front of the 1995 World Series trophy.

On an old Braves dugout bench.

Sluggers waiting in the dugout.

Hanging inside the clubhouse.

Noah and Ben get a view from the press box.

Then Jess and the boys went out onto the field to shag some fly balls.

Here it comes ...

There it is!

And finally we ran the bases.

Noah heads for third.

Can't wait for the season to start - Go Braves!

Hinkle, Hinkle Little Star

2010-03-02T11:07:00.002-05:00

Good News, Bad News

2010-01-29T12:42:00.032-05:00

The bad news: the same icky illness I had back before Christmas has continued, and I have been very delinquent in my blogging. The good news: because of said ickiness, I have taken very few pictures, so you're really not missing much.

Here are a few from Christmas (Yes, Christmas - it was only a month ago. January, could you get any longer?) and our visit to Chicago and Michigan.On Christmas Eve, we met some friends to go ice skating at Centennial Park. Noah and Ben hung in there for a good 15 minutes, before deciding they were more adept at drinking hot chocolate off the rink.

Ben and Kira trying to maneuver around the rink. Darn ice is so slippery!Dressed and ready for Christmas Eve service. Hmmm, how much longer will I be able to get away with dressing them in dorky matching sweaters?Ben decorated these cookies for Santa. We wrote him a note then headed to bed to wait for Christmas morning ...The MUCH anticipated hole puncher. It was top on his wish list, and Santa came through. Noah and Ben are great little helper chefs, now complete with aprons. Noah rocks out to "The Reindeer Song," aka Rudolph.

The next day we packed up the car and headed for Indianapolis, then Chicago, and finally Michigan. It was so much fun to be back in Chicago - first time the boys have been there. Our first stop was our old neighborhood. We had lunch at our favorite diner and then went to check out our old apartment.

Noah and Jess in front of our apartment building. Like everything else in the world, they have been converted to condos, but basically look the same.

Noah and Ben had to take some time to play in the snow.

Then we headed to Navy Pier.

God forbid we ever go anywhere and not find a train to ride ... twice.

Goofy boys at the Children's Museum.

Walking to dinner on the Magnificent Mile.

I don't have many pics of our time in Michigan, but it was so great to be home and to spend time with family. Despite the frigid temps, the boys did get out to play in the snow a few times.Getting a sled ride from Daddy in Booma and Papa's front yard. Being the complete and utter wimp that I've become, I took this through the window from inside the warm, cozy living room.

More Holiday Cheer

2009-12-23T18:38:00.025-05:00

Wow, Christmas Eve is upon us and I have been very slack in updating the blog with all of our holiday festivities. We've been quite busy spreading and soaking up Christmas cheer. Well, actually, for the last week, I've been very not busy. I've been in bed with a stomach bug. I'm feeling better now, but the computer is still a bit nauseating, so forgive me for not providing too much commentary. Just here come the pics ...Christmas PJs!

We anticipate that some year, the annual picture with Santa will not need to be a family portrait. No luck this year. In fact, Noah still wasn't too sure sitting in my lap ...

And we finally made it to ride the looooong-awaited Macy's Pink Pig with friends Ava and Eli.

Ben made Christmas cookies at his cooking class ...

Last week we had a playgroup holiday party at a fun ice cream place that has old cars the kids can climb on ...

The boys each had Christmas programs this year. Ben sang in the church choir (light blue shirt in back row) ...

And Noah was a shepherd in his school's Christmas Nativity ...

Last Thursday, Jess took the boys and Ava to the town square bonfire and marshmallow roast ...

They met another good friend, Kira, there.

Best buds.

'Tis the Season

2009-12-06T19:08:00.012-05:00

Yesterday, the holiday season kicked into full gear at our house. We made the annual trek to the tree lot to pick out our 9-ft. gem. (Jess did not appreciate its height as he was hefting it into the house, but it looks great up and lit and decorated!)

Then we headed to the Post Office so the boys could mail their letters to Santa ...

Hmmmm ... naughty or nice?
The jury's still out on Noah.

Earlier in the day we went downtown with pals Ava and Eli and their Mom and Dad to see the Children's Christmas Parade. Despite the COLD weather, the kids had a ton of fun watching all the floats and marching bands.
Ava and Ben
Noah and Eli (too cute in their matching coats)

The kids loved the giant balloons ...
Mike, Ava and Eli's dad, told me this was "Word Girl" - I found it funny that he knew.
And that classic kids' character, the Fidelity Bank lion.

Noah high-fives an elf.

This Thanksgiving

2009-11-25T19:22:00.009-05:00

Again this year I am overwhelmed with the blessings I've been given. I have so much to be thankful for - my beautiful family, our health, and the wonderful people who fill out all the corners of our lives.

We were so glad to have the opportunity last night to serve, as a family, the families of the Nicholas House, a local homeless shelter. The boys jumped right in.

And, a different kind of blessing ... I am thankful for this occurrence this week: I left Noah with my brother-in-law, sister-in-law, and a friend of theirs on Monday to run to the grocery store. When I got home, I asked how he did. They nonchalantly said he was great - played with his toys, ran around, went poopy on the potty ... uhmmm, WHAT?!? He's NEVER done anything on the potty, and he waits until I'm gone to just announce that he has to use the potty, as if he does it all the time?! More funny, they said he asked them to leave the bathroom so he could have some privacy. When I heard about it I did the whole crazy-Mommy-happy-dance, clapping and making a big deal out of it, and he acted as if he just wanted to play it cool, like he does it all the time. Strangely, he asked to do it again later that night. Nothing since, but boy am I thankful for that surprise accomplishment!

Happy Thanksgiving, Everybody! Hope you enjoy all your blessings, big and small.

The Dream

2009-11-12T18:45:00.012-05:00

I had to post this story because it's just so Ben. As we were leaving the park this afternoon, heading to our car, Ben started telling me about a dream he had last night (this has been a hot topic of his for a few months now). I believe it involved a police car and a magic phone and maybe a rocket, but I soon found the conversation going something like this:

Ben: There was a police car that had to drive up onto the grass ... (insert LOTS of details) ...

Me: Mmm-hmm.

Ben: And then ... (lots more details) ...

Me: Mmm-hmm.

Ben: And then ... (barely stopping for breath between run-on sentences) ...

And this carried on the whole way home. Finally, as we were pulling up to the house, he said, "Actually, I just really love talking. (Giggles) I just really love to talk."

Indeed, little man. Indeed.

Halloween Fun!

2009-11-02T11:10:00.016-05:00

We had a fun-filled Halloween week with our little train conductor and firefighter!

On Tuesday, we had a Halloween playgroup party. These are most of our playgroup friends, but getting a shot with everyone is becoming virtually impossible.

On the big night itself, Ben and Noah's friends Ava and Eli came over for the REAL fun ...
Trick-or-treating!
The kids, of course, dove in as soon as we got back home.
And Noah was sorely disappointed the next morning to learn that he wouldn't be having candy for breakfast.

Earlier in the week, he had been dying to ride a pony at our church Fall Festival, but we decided not to wait in the mile-long line ...

Looking longingly at the ponies.

To his delight, there were also pony rides at Ben's school Fall Festival that we went to yesterday, so he got a chance to saddle up ...

and he LOVED it!

Seeing little brother do it gave Ben the courage to give it a try. He also loved it, and claims that his was so big it wasn't a pony, but a horse.

I love the unabashed joy that 4-year-olds have when they see a friend. Here Ben greets his classmate Sydney.

The petting zoo is always a favorite with our guys. This piglet was too, too cute. The boys said they'd be willing to take it home and share their bedrooms with it.

Noah wasn't so sure about brushing this napping donkey. He kept "shh-shh-ing" everyone who came near it so as not to wake it up.

'Til next year, happy Halloween!

Fall Sports

2009-10-27T14:28:00.018-04:00

Ben has been playing a couple of sports this fall. I am really trying not to overschedule him, but these programs are very low-key, low-pressure, and he's doing great. On Mondays, he does "Munchkin Tennis" at our local tennis center.

On Wednesdays, Ben does soccer at his school. We did soccer last fall through the YMCA and it wasn't a big hit, but I think it may have been too overwhelming for him. This program is very low-key -- no games, just skills practice in a relaxed atmosphere. He's loving it.
Ben passes to his friend Amelia.

Some of the fun drills they do are ...

head on the ball,

and Superman!

Of course, Noah has to get in on the action with his own Superman rendition.