one boy, one girl

seashells

2012-01-29T19:26:00.000-08:00

This morning we took Grandma to our favorite bakery for donuts in Cardiff-By-The-Sea (isn't that a cool name?) and a walk on the beach. We got lucky today and found many cool seashells to bring home. These are three of our favorites.

Yes, I know my hands are incredibly dry. I'm working on it!

ice skating again!

2012-01-28T19:13:00.000-08:00

The kids had an opportunity to go ice skating today with the Cub Scouts. The weather has been really warm and with temps around 80*, it was strange to put on warmer clothes and go ice skating. However, it was an activity we had talked about for months and they were both looking forward to going. It was a much different experience than the one we all really enjoyed over the holidays back in Portland. Today this rink was really busy, it was difficult to find familiar faces, the skates were old, and the ice was really choppy. Once the zamboni worked its magic, conditions improved but it still wasn't great ice. Neither kid was having a great time until they scored these E-Z Skaters. I'd prefer they learn without a crutch, but with lots of others kids using them they were very appealing to our kids, too. Thomas and Meredith had a great time zooming around the ice with these!

Thomas' morning with Grandma

2012-01-27T18:29:00.000-08:00

This morning Thomas got to spend one-on-one time with Grandma. The kids adore her and sometimes they'll both be clamoring for the attention so it's nice when it works out for them to each have their special time with her. Today we went out for breakfast and then spent some time at the local outlet mall. It didn't even matter that we were looking for new shoes for Meredith. Thomas just enjoyed spending the time holding hands with his favorite Grandma!

It was "pajama day" at Meredith's preschool today!

quick recovery

2012-01-26T21:15:00.000-08:00

Grandma brought this special blanket for Thomas: maybe it did the trick?

This afternoon Thomas came home from school not feeling well. He was excited to see Grandma here, but he quickly laid on the sofa and took a nap. This is pretty much how it goes for Thomas: one minute he's out, then he takes a nap and wakes feeling much better. He was warm but never developed a temperature and it seemed to pass quickly, for the most part anyway. He's still a bit sniffly and not his usual energetic self. But he woke well enough to want to attend the Pajama Party we had planned to do.

Our library always has fun and family friendly activities going on. I love that there is so much to do and they are, for the most part, things the kids are really interested in. I didn't think a Pajama Party would interest them, but yesterday while at the library the Librarian told Meredith about it and she was excited to go. It turned out to a really nice early evening activity. It started at 7pm and lasted about an hour. There was a fun star wand craft, plenty of bedtime stories with puppets, and even milk or apple juice with a cookie afterward. The kids loved it. I'll have to keep my eyes open for the next Pajama Party because I already know two kids who will want to be there!

race photos

2012-01-25T20:02:00.000-08:00

I'm never a fan of my own race photos, but these photos of the kids are pretty darn cute!

tidepool adventures in Carlsbad

2012-01-24T20:46:00.000-08:00

her special umbrella

2012-01-23T20:23:00.000-08:00

It really doesn't rain enough here to justify the need for new rain boots, coats and umbrellas every year. They would be barely broken in before they'd be outgrown. But this is our second storm to pass through in just a few days and the rains have been heavy at times. We walked to preschool this morning with an old umbrella we have but it just wasn't big enough for both of us and she's just so much shorter than me. She complained the whole way about getting rain on her dress. I promised her I'd find her a special umbrella all her own TODAY. This was not easy. I can find flip flops faster than I can find an umbrella in a store like Target - even in January. Three stores later, I found this little cutie. And although the rain had stopped by pickup, I brought her the umbrella to walk home with. She's been carrying it around the house all day and bringing it with us in the car. Tonight she wanted the umbrella on the floor next to her bed -- yes, it's that special to her.

*Thomas suggested she use it all year long to shade herself from the sun. Smart boy!

race weekend

2012-01-21T20:23:00.000-08:00

This weekend is the Carlsbad Marathon & Half Marathon. That race is tomorrow and I'll be running the half marathon this year. Today, the race held their annual Kids Marathon Mile at Legoland. Three years ago Thomas participated for the first time. It was a run-walk routine for him that year and took over 20 minutes to finish the course. For various reasons we didn't have an opportunity to participate again until this year. Meredith decided at the last minute to do it, too, so I took both kids this morning to Legoland for their races. The race start/finish are outside the park but 90% of the race is around the outer loop inside Legoland. The kids are grouped by age but we (and another friend and her two boys) all got in with the 6 year old group this year. Unfortunately it was a very wet and stormy day, but the kids didn't let that damper their spirits. I brought garbage bags for them to wear until the race start and my friend had umbrellas (and a husband who held them at the finish while we raced). Thomas and Kyan (her 7yo boy) both took off right from the start. I could see Thomas up ahead for almost the first half and then I lost sight of him. Helen ran with her 5yo son, Blake, while I ran with Meredith. She did GREAT! There were a few brief stops to walk but they lasted 3 to 5 seconds, at the most. One spectator called her speedy and when she crossed the finish line in 13 minutes flat, I had to agree. Thomas estimated he finished 4 minutes before her, giving him a 9 minute finish. I suspect that wasn't quite accurate but we'll let him believe that. All four kids did such a great job this morning! No complaints while waiting in the rain for their race to start, no complaints while running a full mile and nothing but smiles at the finish line. I love that my kids enjoy running!

Thursday dinner fun

2012-01-19T20:27:00.000-08:00

We have Thursdays wide open while Thomas is in school. There's a library storytime & craft hour that we try to meet friends for. Sometimes we go out for lunch. But mostly it's a day for me to run errands and clean house. Thomas gets picked up that morning for school so we can ease ourselves into the day by staying in our jammies and cleaning the house. I like the easy day, but it's Meredith's least favorite day. She whines about being bored. I bring out craft materials and try to get her involved in something but she's such a social person that sitting and working on something by herself just doesn't cut it. Today she helped me clean things up and was a sport when we ran some errands so we topped off the day with an early dinner at Chuck E. Cheese. Not my favorite place but the kids sure do love it!

Thomas can't get enough of this studio setup - can you see him?

tying HER shoelaces

2012-01-17T22:02:00.000-08:00

This little sister refuses to be outdone by her big brother. Thomas tied his own shoes for the first time last week, so she had to one up him by tying her own shoes for the first time today. Today! "Anything you can do, I can do better..."

lunch & a movie via Facebook

2012-01-16T21:37:00.000-08:00

I love how quickly something can come about when it's a no school holiday and my mama friends are on Facebook. I have a love-hate relationship with that social media site but it does have some positives and getting a group of friends together quickly is one of those things.

Yesterday I invited a friend and her two kids to join us for lunch and an afternoon movie. It was a cooler day and with no school, I thought we should do something fun indoors. This morning a different friend posted on Facebook that she didn't have anything planned yet for her three kids on this no school day. I invited her to join us and before you know it, we had a group of five moms and their ten kids headed out for lunch and a movie. The kids all loved the movie - Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked - and it was a fun afternoon for me spent with good friends.

back to the routine

2012-01-15T21:25:00.000-08:00

It's been a busy week at our house as we've all settled back into our routines (post holiday break). The kids started back to school on the 9th and they were ready. Dance class started back up for Meredith. Thomas resumed the All Star Readers book club at the library. Homework was worked on all week. A painter came two days to paint the stairwell and the master bathroom. We spent an afternoon at SeaLife Aquarium. Thomas ended the week with a playdate at the park with his friend, Tommy, from school. The first week back after a vacation is always tough. We were ready for a quiet weekend focused on family.

Yesterday we went out for brunch in Encinitas and stopped by the Farmer's Market for some fresh produce. Today we spent a few hours at Legoland riding the rides. We all enjoyed the mellow family weekend.

tying shoelaces

2012-01-10T20:53:00.000-08:00

Thomas is a perfectionist, just like me. Sometimes he gets frustrated easily if he doesn't pick something up right away or doesn't do it just so. Learning to tie his own shoes was one of those frustrations for him. I don't know what it was exactly but something just didn't click for him - until today! He was super proud and excited and so are we. Way to go, Thomas!

Just because I love this photo...

2012-01-08T21:16:00.000-08:00

This is my favorite photo of Meredith - ever! A friend snapped it last October in the evening while we waited for the red surf down at the beach. This is one gorgeous girl.

Unique of the Week

2012-01-08T21:10:00.000-08:00

It's finally here! Meredith has been waiting all year for her turn to be the Unique of the Week in her preschool class. She has watched as all her friends brought in their posters to share, provided their favorite snacks and drinks for the week, brightened up the classroom with fresh flowers they chose, acted as line leader/flag holder/song starter/etc. She has asked many times when it would be her turn and I'm so glad it's finally here. She's waited a long time for this!

This afternoon we put together her poster to share with the class. We looked through photographs and she selected the specific photos she wanted to share. She had strong opinions about how the board would be laid out, the colors we'd use, how it would be decorated, etc. And it turned out great! She proudly wrote all the tags and helped me assemble the photos. She can't wait to share it tomorrow with her classmates!

recent artwork by T

2012-01-06T20:30:00.000-08:00

drawn at Deschutes Brewery Portland Pub House, 12/23/11

recent artwork by M

2012-01-06T20:29:00.000-08:00

Her people are drawn with more detail in the nose, fingers, eyelashes...

a person walking Greta: I love how Greta is drawn

The New Childrens' Museum

2012-01-06T19:58:00.000-08:00

lunch break in the middle at a nearby bagel shop

Today we spent the day with friends at The New Childrens' Museum in San Diego. My friend drove since Thomas and Meredith wanted to experience "a car with tv". Once there, the four had a blast with all the hands-on activities, interactive stations, artist-led demonstrations and lots of open free space to run. Today they studied light and shadows with an original spray painted piece of their own, hand formed models in clay, participated in a group art project after learning about the artist that exhibit is based on, spun themselves silly in these "bowls", scaled a rock wall, experimented with different bubble makers, climbed a tire ladder to shoot down a spiraling and very fast slide, explored magnetism with an interactive wall, added their New Year resolutions to a community wall, made "sea urchins" from plarn (yarn from plastic bags) that they made themselves, dressed up as knights and a princess, and more -- can you believe it?! I love this place. Each exhibit has cards -- one that talks about the artist and his intention and others for "what you might explore if you are a toddler/5 year old/8 year old/etc.". This place is pure genius and pure fun. The artists and exhibits change every few months to keep it interesting and new. It's definitely a gem for children in San Diego!

heat wave

2012-01-05T16:14:00.000-08:00

they wanted me to spray them ~ sprinkler fun below

We love warm sunny days and this week we've been fortunate to have some unseasonably warm weather. We seem to get these "heat waves" every few weeks and we absolutely love it when we do!

yardwork

2012-01-04T20:07:00.000-08:00

these are some seriously strong kids!

The kids are off school this week so they've been helping me get our Christmas stuff put away, move some things around inside the house and work in the backyard. I think they'll be ready for school to start Monday, but for now they are enjoying the work.

happy to be free

2012-01-03T20:57:00.000-08:00

...and then we ran her this morning and we've been taking her everywhere with us. She's also been sleeping A LOT.

Greta is home!

2012-01-02T16:31:00.000-08:00

Today we picked up Greta from her extended stay at our vet's boarding facility. It's a really nice facility inside their office which is also new (opened last year). Our dogs have been going to this office since we moved here so they know the vets and the techs. For Bela, any visit there was always like the best thing in the world - better than the parks, beach, any place she enjoyed.

It was always the opposite for Greta. She has always been a nervous dog and walking inside the vet's office always made her quiver. We've boarded her here a few times since Bela passed away because it was easy and reasonably priced for one dog. We also really liked that it was our vet and with people she knows. It's a very good setup and we've always been happy with the care given. Greta's previous stays have been for just a few days and she always did just fine.

This stay was longer, much longer. She was boarded for a total of 12 days/11 nights. That's a long time for any dog to stay in that kind of environment. It doesn't matter how good it is. I knew she was nervous when I dropped her off on the 22nd but I figured she'd eventually settle in and be okay.

When we picked her up this morning, I was asked that we find another solution the next time we go out of town. Greta is no longer welcome to stay at their facility. I understand because I know how caring these people are and I know they are only looking out for her best interest. She became very agitated/bored/restless while there and damaged some things in one room - so much so that she had to be moved into another space. Our vet put her own dog in with Greta hoping it would comfort her but that only made Greta more upset. As if she wasn't skinny enough already, she noticeably lost weight while there. And during the last day she had diarrhea, mostly likely as a result of the New Year's Eve fireworks that the vet said left many of the dogs visibly upset. Poor things!

We're just happy to have her back home with us. The kids and I picked her up this morning, bathed her at home and sat outside in the warm sunshine cuddling her until she just couldn't be cuddled anymore.

our Christmas

2012-01-01T22:04:00.000-08:00

We were in Portland from (Thursday) the 22nd until December 31st. There wasn't a good time for us to have our own Christmas celebration before the trip so we were left doing it once we returned. It wasn't ideal to do it today since it was the after our long travel day. Plus, Mike has to work tomorrow morning but if we didn't do it then then it would have been put off another full week. Honestly, I was already done with Christmas by the time we left Portland so I just wanted to do it and get it over with.

Although we had a nice Christmas celebration at my mom's house and enjoyed several holiday gatherings while there, it made our own Christmas feel a bit disjointed. Next year I'm going to have to figure something else out. I don't want to do it again like this. Of course, the kids didn't mind celebrating Christmas at our house a full week after the date, but it just wasn't the same - for me, anyway.

On a happier note, these two were very patient and waited until after lunch to open stockings and presents. The morning was quiet and relaxing as we all enjoyed being home after the travel day before. And apparently these two have been extra good kids this year because Santa brought them both lots of presents that made them very, very happy!

Welcome 2012!

2012-01-01T09:06:00.000-08:00

It's my nature to always find the positive in every situation and for our New Year's Eve evening it is this: WE WERE ALL AWAKE AT MIDNIGHT! It was definitely a first for the kids and a first in a long time for me. It may not happen again for many, many years. So that's my positive spin on how our New Year's Eve unfolded this year. Welcome 2012! We're hoping it's a great year for our family and yours.

And here's the nitty gritty because I have a poor memory and as crazy as the day was, I may forget some details if I don't write it down:

We flew Alaska Airlines home so our return trip from Portland to San Diego meant a short layover in Seattle. That flight was uneventful and we were up and back down on the ground before we knew it. The layover was short but enough time for us to grab some dinner before heading to the gate. On our way to the gate, I left my backpack behind in the womens' restroom. Oops #1.

When we got to the gate, I realized my backpack was missing and ran back to retrieve it. While I was scrambling around the airport looking for my nonexistent, never-to-be-seen-again backpack, the family learned we were at the wrong gate and our plane was leaving in a few minutes. Oops #2.

They started making their way to the shuttle that would zoom them across the tarmac to the correct gate where the plane was waiting but then realized I didn't have my cell phone (I had left it with them to charge) so they could not notify me of the change. We missed that plane. Oops #3.

Unbeknownst to us, San Diego was experiencing very dense fog and was diverting all planes to LAX. (Days later, we learned that SD is one of those airports where the pilots can't rely on the control tower but actually have to see to land the plane so there must be reasonable visibility.) We were told that the plane we had missed was flying to LAX where they would be bussing everyone from there to SD. Looked like it might be a blessing in disguise since the airline then booked us first class seats on the next flight. However, it had been a long day and we were all so tired.

When it was time to board our flight, the airline told us there was a 95% chance we would not be landing in SD because the fog hadn't lifted. We were also told that any hotel accommodations, rental cars or any other expenses incurred from getting out of LA and to our SD destination would be all on us. It was New Year's Eve, afterall, and they had no idea what our situation would be as far as rental cars, hotel rooms, etc. They gave us the option of boarding the plane with this knowledge up front or we could try to book a flight on one of the planes the next afternoon. Crazy!

We had already been "traveling" for 8+ hours and we were still in Seattle. We opted to get on that plane. It was empty! Very few passengers got on board.

Later in the flight we were told we'd be in a holding pattern above LA while waiting for the fog to clear in SD. After almost an hour of this, the pilot told us the fog hadn't cleared but that we didn't have enough fuel to fly to SD anyway... and because so many planes had landed at LAX that evening, they were not allowing anymore diverted planes to land... and then to sit back and buckle up because we were starting our descent into Ontario. There was a lot of grumbling on the plane, many of us asking where the heck Ontario was, would we be able to get a rental car, are there hotels in the area, etc.

Before we walked off the plane an airline rep. came on board and told us busses were waiting to take us to SD. We were instructed to claim our bags and board the marked busses out front. At midnight, we were on the bus waiting for it to leave Ontario.

Fortunately the drive was 1.5 to 2 hours and uneventful. Our bags were waiting for us at the SD airport and getting our car was easy enough. We were finally home around 3am! We had left the W family holiday gathering at 12:30pm the afternoon before to head for the airport. It was an incredibly long travel day -- and not one we want to do again anytime soon.

W Family Holiday

2011-12-31T19:38:00.000-08:00

Great-Grandma Margie, Grandpa Marlyn and us

The holidays wouldn't be complete without a W Family gathering. Mike's brother and his wife hosted a wonderful brunch for all that could make it, including great-grandparents, uncle and aunt, and Mike's father. Great food, fun memories in the making and a perfect way to end our visit!

Charley

2011-12-30T15:00:00.000-08:00

There are many reasons why we look forward to our visits back to Portland and one of those for Meredith is Grandma's neighbor, Charley. She's really the cutest little thing and looks forward to seeing our kids as much as they look forward to seeing her. It was funny that in the days leading up to this trip, Meredith talked a lot about two people: Grandma and Charley. They get at least one opportunity to play every time we're there and we've sent little notes to Charley between the visits. It's a sweet friendship!

Charley, 5, coloring with the kids at Grandma's house

ice skating fun

2011-12-29T21:11:00.000-08:00

Ice skating was another one of those activities I didn't plan but kept in the back of my head as something fun to do if we had a free day. Today the four of us (Grandma watched) braved the cold, slick ice for some fun. The kids both did great -- Thomas had been once before but it was Meredith's first time. Neither fell (maybe it was the tight grip we had them?) and the more they went around the more comfortable they began to feel. I'm glad we were able to do this today. It was a really fun family activity for everyone.

moving in slow motion

2011-12-27T23:19:00.000-08:00

bowling fun

2011-12-27T20:48:00.000-08:00

It seems that every time we come back to Portland someone in our family is sick. I don't know why that is, but it just is. Unfortunately this time it's Mike who hasn't been feeling well and now appears to have the flu (hope it's a short one!). He needed some quiet rest today so Grandma and I took the kids, plus cousin Emily!, to the bowling alley. We had never done Cosmic Bowling before -- the kids absolutely loved it. It was actually a normal bowling session when we started, but almost at the end of our first game the lights dimmed, flashing lights began appearing, black lights made everything white glow, the music changed, fog was blown in and Cosmic Bowling had officially started. We had to play a second game. It was too much fun not to today! I told the kids they had to show us some dance moves after every ball thrown -- to which they obliged, of course!

Christmas morning with Grandma

2011-12-25T21:34:00.000-08:00

Santa's letter to Thomas

2011-12-25T20:30:00.000-08:00

Last night Thomas sat down before bed to write a letter to Santa. It was all initiated by him and the letter he left was so thoughtful and sweet. Not only did he mention what he was wishing for, but he also noted what Meredith would like to have. I knew the letter required a response from Santa Claus but was afraid Thomas might recognize our handwriting. Uncle Peter left this letter for Thomas.

a letter left for Santa

2011-12-24T22:27:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve

2011-12-24T21:16:00.000-08:00

We spent Christmas Eve with Mike's brothers and their families. It was nice that we could do this again. I think it's been a few years since we've done it (but I could be wrong) and for the longest time that was how Mike and I spent every Christmas Eve. One year it was just Mike, his brother Dave and myself eating at the only restaurant that was open - a Chinese restaurant, of course. And for several years it was all adults eating dinner in and watching a favorite Christmas movie. Things have changed over the years with the addition of these seven little people, but it's only made the Christmas Eve get together more special. Even though time and distance separates them, they still have fun together when they do spend time together. I hope that doesn't change.

Peacock Lane

2011-12-23T22:23:00.000-08:00

We usually plan several get togethers and must-do events during our trips back to Portland. And often, the plans fall through for various reasons. This year I purposely did not plan as much as usual so that we could enjoy a more relaxed, quiet holiday. I always keep a few things in the back of my mind though and one of those things was a visit to see Peacock Lane. We had been going to see holiday lights around our town over the past two weeks and the kids loved it. I knew they would think Peacock Lane was something special and a unique experience. As luck would have it, the kids' Auntie Eve hadn't been yet this year and although the evening was cool (we had met them for dinner), it wasn't wet. We couldn't pass up the opportunity to share the experience with them this year. And, as expected, the kids all really enjoyed it.

guy talk

2011-12-23T22:20:00.000-08:00

Tonight it was guy talk over lemonade. In 15 years, it'll be over a cold beer.

waking up at Grandma's

2011-12-23T20:09:00.000-08:00

We arrived at Grandma's house late last night. If all goes smoothly, taking a late afternoon/early evening flight makes a lot of sense. Thomas went to school yesterday, Mike worked most of the day and Meredith and I were able to take care of last minute things and pack. It made the relatively short travel process between San Diego and Portland not feel like it was taking all day, like it often does when you fly earlier in the day. However, it also meant not getting to Grandma's house until after their normal bedtimes. The visit with Grandma was short before it was time to get to bed. Waking up at Grandma's house the next morning? Exactly what they had been waiting for -- lots of hugs, kisses, chocolate milk in special glasses, and the usual (real!) bacon feast. These two love it.

Guess where they are headed...!?

2011-12-22T20:55:00.000-08:00

matchy matchy

2011-12-22T20:43:00.000-08:00

I have friends who dress their kids either the same or very, very coordinated. I've never quite understood why you'd do that. They are individuals and, as such, should wear what suits their unique personalities -- not be all matchy matchy with their siblings just to be "cute". Anyhow, I picked up these vests for the kids at Old Navy as a present from Elfie to open before their trip to Portland. The selection at that store is very limited so the vests ended up being very similar. Sure, it's kind of cute that they match but you won't be seeing this happen much. Plus, I think it's because the kids inside the vests are cute that together they are cute on the outside of the vests, too.

Preschool Holiday

2011-12-21T20:23:00.000-08:00

Today was Meredith's preschool holiday performance and party. She saw Thomas do this exact same thing two years ago and was excited to be experiencing it herself this year. The kids all did a great job during the singing and performing. It was really fun to watch! After the performance all the kids went back to their classrooms for the class parties. Meredith's included special snacks and drinks, cookie decorating (and eating!) and an ornament painting craft. It was perfectly simple and sweet. She, of course, loved every minute of her special day.

Unfortunately, Thomas' holiday party was at the same exact time. I wish I could have gone to both but the timing just didn't work out this year. He said his party was very fun, too.

playing Santa for the homeless pets

2011-12-20T20:13:00.000-08:00

Our kids understand the importance of giving. We do it all year long in so many different ways. However, giving back to the local humane society is one of our favorites and something we always look forward to. This year we invited some very special friends to join us for our annual holiday visit and dinner afterwards. All the kids had such a great time and one puppy in particular touched all of our hearts. Days later our friends went back to the shelter in hopes of bringing that puppy home for Christmas. Unfortunately, someone else had already put a hold on her but it all made us very happy to know she was getting a new home. It breaks my heart to walk through the shelter but pets are something we love and I especially love that Thomas and Meredith get to see firsthand who benefits from their kindness.

cub scouts: toy and food drive

2011-12-19T21:07:00.000-08:00

Sadly, I didn't get any photos of th Food Drive event tonight because we were all so busy working. The one chance I had to snap a photo of my favorite Cub Scout in action he replied to my photo request with, "What do you want a photo of? Me with a can of soup?" Why, yes! Yes, I do! Photos (or lack thereof) aside, this was a really great opportunity to involve the kids in a Food Drive. Most of the pack was in attendance as we sorted toys and food, weeded out expired food donations and organized it all neatly into a large closet. I talked to my kids about what we were doing and why it was such a good cause but I doubt they felt it was as rewarding as I did.

holiday crafts and baking

2011-12-18T19:57:00.000-08:00

I love all the fun activities we do over the holidays. Our countdown to Christmas involves one holiday or family-oriented activity every single day. Sometimes we fall behind a day or two, but we always catch up. I write the activities with our calendar in one hand so I know what activities we have planned for the month beforehand. This weekend our activities included baking holiday cookies for a cookie exchange (above) and crafting some ornaments (below). Last year Grandma Susan asked for a handmade ornament from each of the kids. It goes along with the kinds of things we like to do anyway so it's an easy one for us. I've also been busy either getting rid of stuff or using up stuff we already have so these ornaments naturally came about using up things from our craft supply and the countless seashells we have lying around. I love the results and hope all the recipients love them as much as we loved making them!

The Nutcracker Ballet

2011-12-17T20:46:00.000-08:00

Another favorite holiday tradition we've been doing since Thomas was 18 months old -- the Nutracker Ballet. This year one of Meredith's preschool friends was sitting across the aisle and one row back from us. The second half of the performance Meredith spent sharing Sofia's seat with her. It was a fun holiday outing shared with family and friends!

Santa Claus!

2011-12-16T20:41:00.000-08:00

Late this afternoon we headed to the mall to see our favorite Santa Claus. I don't know how long this guy has been doing it, but I'm told it's been years. He looks like the real deal and has a gentle, sweet nature about him when he's talking to the kids. Thomas and Meredith brought their wish lists to share with Santa and enjoyed the short visit with him. Hope he was listening and heard what they'd like to see under their Christmas tree this year!

caroling at the bookstore

2011-12-14T21:02:00.000-08:00

When Thomas told me his school had been invited to sing Christmas carols at the local Barnes & Noble Bookstore, I knew there was no question he would want to go. The school was smart to hold this casual event the same evening as the (rotating) monthly Dine Out to Support Our School fundraiser. So tonight we made an evening of dining at Pei Wei, a favorite chinese restaurant, and spending a couple of hours at the bookstore. Thomas sang with his fellow first graders and we spent the rest of the time alternating between browsing the shelves and listening/watching the other classes sing their carols. Both kids really enjoyed the fun evening out with friends!

a small sample of first graders showed up to sing

Pack Photo

2011-12-13T22:18:00.000-08:00

During this evening's pack meeting, a photographer shot some photos of the entire Pack. It looked like a very challenging endeavor!

gym playdate

2011-12-13T14:13:00.000-08:00

gingerbread house

2011-12-11T21:02:00.000-08:00

One of our family's favorite holiday traditions is the gingerbread house. We don't do anything unusual. I buy a kit from the store and we build it, but we do it together and it's always a nice family activity. We already can't wait to break it apart and eat it!

the mini slumber party

2011-12-09T19:45:00.000-08:00

Here we are! Not the best photo of us, but there were way too many cameras flashing when we made our arrival onto the red carpet. Mike's office held their Holiday Party last night at a hotel in Beverly Hills. It was a night to remember, for sure. While we were out having a great time, the kids were having a "mini slumber party" at a friend's house nearby. Our kids and our friend's two kids were all so excited during the days leading up to the slumber party. She had taken her boys to a late afternoon birthday party and when they heard Thomas and Meredith were at their house, they couldn't leave the party fast enough. Forget the birthday cake! It was all very sweet and we're incredibly thankful she was able to take the kids. We picked them up sometime after midnight and three of the four kids were soundly sleeping on an air mattress together in the living room. I know they would have loved to stay and wake up with Kai and Xander, but we got a hotel room nearby and then returned the next afternoon to see them again. I love how easy our kids are, whether it's staying with someone they don't see often or a last minute change in plans. They're flexible and adaptable which makes being their parents so very easy.

holiday cookies

2011-12-08T15:39:00.000-08:00

cub scouts: keeping our bodies healthy

2011-12-06T21:31:00.000-08:00

Tonight was our turn to present the topic during the Cub Scouts den meeting. Every parent is asked to sign up for one of the meetings. We're responsible for presenting the material, organizing the activities, providing a snack, etc. -- basically run a meeting. This afternoon the kids and I prepared a presentation board illustrating the USDA's Healthy Plate. They had a great time working on this example board, cutting out photos of different foods/drinks from magazines and getting all of our things together. Thomas helped me with the presenting of the materials and I was especially proud of him for that. Overall, a successful meeting!

weekend with daddy

2011-12-05T09:21:00.000-08:00

goofing around at the race expo's pacers' booth

While I spent the weekend in Sacramento with some friends, the rest of the family got to spend a second weekend together without me. It was just two weeks earlier that I surprised my mom in Portland for the weekend. That weekend they enjoyed birthday parties, a movie, eating out at their favorite restaurants, etc. And again this weekend, they got to do the same. Lucky kids! Lucky daddy! It's good for everyone, but esp. nice for me to come home and experience all the excitement Mike gets to experience all the time -- at least for an hour, I was the novelty!

winter coats

2011-12-02T09:13:00.000-08:00

Every year at this time we think about heavier "winter" coats but it's hard to justify purchasing new jackets for the kids when they'll only wear them once or twice. As luck would have it, the girl Thomas carpools with has an older brother and the two of them had recently gone through their own closets when deciding what needs to be purchased for their upcoming trip to Utah. Today, our kids were lucky recipients of new to them winter coats. And really? Because the coats belonged to Jacob and Kaitlin, both the kids think they are extra special and cool.

Legoland snow

2011-12-01T20:20:00.000-08:00

holiday photos

2011-12-01T20:13:00.000-08:00

This afternoon I spent 30 minutes in the garage snapping photographs of our kids for the holiday card. They are always so agreeable and had a great time helping me get various photos, both separately and together. Greta wasn't quite as agreeable, but did sit still long enough for at least one good shot. Of course, along with all the standard posed photos we took a bunch of candid ones. This one is one of my favorites of the candids. It shows just how silly they are and how much fun they have together.

busy, busy, busy...

2011-12-01T09:16:00.001-08:00

Check back. Posts will come soon!

Holiday card exchange

2011-11-29T21:12:00.000-08:00

This is my third year organizing a holiday card exchange for our playgroup. The group has been fizzling since September, with all the kids getting more busy with school and other activities. It's sad to see but I think that's just how life and our relationships continue to evolve. Still, I wanted to do one last card exchange for the kids because I know how much my kids enjoy it. Meredith finished hers up really quick so we were able to get these out the door today! [Thomas' will be mailed in a few days.]

Meredith & friends

2011-11-29T21:05:00.000-08:00

...and look who showed up in the local newspaper's online photos the day after the tree lighting ceremony at Legoland!

Legoland tree lighting ceremony

2011-11-28T21:01:00.000-08:00

Late this afternoon we met up with a few friends at Legoland for their Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony. There was singing, dancing, local celebrity Tony Hawk was there, Santa, the world's largest Lego tree, fireworks, snow falling...

Thanksgiving, 11/22 - 11/25

2011-11-25T20:47:00.000-08:00

This year for Thanksgiving we were blessed to have Mike's mom and brother Rick (and his family) stay with us for a few days. And on Thanksgiving day, we had a full table with all our visiting family -- plus Mike's youngest brother who is living locally. It was a lot of fun for all of us! The kids have such a great time with their cousins. It's wonderful to watch their relationships develop and the dynamics when you have five kids ages 2 to 6 years old together. Although we don't live near each other and only see each other a few times every year, these relationships are special. It's great to see the distance doesn't diminish that at all.

prehistoric shark teeth

2011-11-21T20:29:00.000-08:00

Several months ago we caught part of a PBS show about the shark teeth that can be found along the eastern U.S. coastline. The show was focused on Florida so I was pleasantly surprised when a friend in Maryland said they find shark teeth often near their house. We worked out a trade (some California seashells for Maryland shark teeth) with kids on both ends very happy with their special little packages!

pirate Thomas

2011-11-21T16:38:00.000-08:00

While I enjoyed a relaxing weekend with my mom, Mike was busy with the kids in San Diego. They had several parties to attend and some very late nights. I missed them terribly (another mama friend sent me this photo of Thomas at a birthday party), but I also know how important it is for them to just have time with their dad. It's really good for everyone to shake things up a bit from time to time and do something different. I was glad to hear they all had such a good time together this weekend.

Birthday Surprise!

2011-11-20T20:24:00.000-08:00

My mom didn't know I'd be showing up at her dinner out with friends and family to celebrate her birthday. She did know I had booked a flight months prior and had arranged to have my brother pick me up from the airport that evening. It was a fun weekend away, spending time with just my mom!

M

2011-11-17T18:43:00.001-08:00

Bobcat Badge

2011-11-15T20:48:00.000-08:00

Thomas, as a first year Cub Scout, is a Tiger Cub. During this first year, they have a series of activities they complete in order to earn various badges, beads, patches, etc. These boys are recognized every time they participate in an activity and every time they accomplish a task or a series of tasks. Tonight Thomas was recognized for his participation in Red Ribbon Week at his school with a nice patch and his entire Den received their Bobcat Badge. It's the first one they are eligible to receive (and it's basically knowing all the promises, handshakes, salutes, meanings, etc.) so it was nice that the whole Den could stand up together and be recognized. As part of the Bobcat Badge, the boys each received their "warrior stripes". When we got home, Meredith told him she liked his "whiskers". He had to strike a warrior stance and explain to her that they aren't whiskers but that they are warrior stripes...

evenings

2011-11-14T20:46:00.000-08:00

The kids and I have been doing puzzles and/or playing games in the evenings before bed. They really enjoy this quiet time together at the end of our busy days. I do, too!

our beautiful girls

2011-11-14T20:42:00.001-08:00

the little sister

2011-11-13T20:10:00.000-08:00

This morning our family spent several hours with Thomas' Cub Scouts den visiting the Carlsbad Historical Society and having lunch at Pizza Port. This little sister is pretty amazing. Not once did she complain about the tour being "boring" or act uninterested. In fact, I'd say she was very much the opposite and participated, listened and followed directions better than most of the Cub Scouts (excluding Thomas, of course). I'm sure there will come a day soon when she no longer wants to tag along on these longer outings, but for now she's very much at home with these boys.

skateboarding

2011-11-11T19:54:00.000-08:00

Thomas has always been a cautious child. Because of this personality trait, he isn't doing some of the more physical activities/sports that other kids his age are doing. I think some of it has also just been due to lack of interest and/or desire on his part. However, these last few days he's expressed a genuine interest to improve some of these skills. One of them is skateboarding. Last night we worked on skateboarding up and down the driveway that runs alongside our house. He understands the skills necessary to skateboard so we're off to a good start. He just needs a lot of practice before he'll be able to do some of the tricks he's asked me to show him how to do -- as do I if I'm going to be showing him how to do tricks!

Legoland w/Ruby

2011-11-10T19:45:00.000-08:00

Meredith and I met our new friends, Rebecca and Ruby, at Legoland for a few hours today. This was their first visit to Legoland since they just moved here two weeks ago. Meredith has more friends than she can count, but nearly all have either an older sibling or a younger sibling (or both!). There's something special about having a girlfriend who is exactly your age, loves everything that you do, acts just as silly as you do, and wants to (and can do) all the same rides and shows that you want to do -- without having to make compromises due to siblings. It was a really fun outing for these two girls today!

Flag Raising Ceremony

2011-11-10T19:39:00.000-08:00

This morning Thomas' school had a Flag Raising Ceremony in honor of Veteran's Day tomorrow. The school invited all the Cub Scouts and Girl Scouts to arrive early for breakfast with Veterans, military parents and other "officials". Afterwards the kids all met with their classes and walked out for the ceremony. It was a simple but moving ceremony -- even the principal choked up a few times as she spoke. Thomas got a kick out of wearing his uniform into his classroom (for all of about 5 minutes) and then posing for the group photographs. Later in the day he told me his favorite song is You're a Grand Old Flag and wishes they could sing it every day at school. This kid is something else!

Wish Lists

2011-11-09T18:48:00.000-08:00

The kids have started their Christmas Wish Lists. I hope Santa is ready!

Girls' Day w/Maya

2011-11-08T20:28:00.000-08:00

After dance class today we met our friends Melanie and Maya (pictured above w/Meredith) for pedicures and lunch. It was Maya's first time so she got the full treatment, including a manicure. Earlier this morning Meredith said to me, "I'm excited to get a pedicure with Maya today! My legs will be tired from dance class. The lady will massage my feet and legs before she paints my toes. It will feel good." Meredith has a rough life, doesn't she?? And now our friend Maya has the same rough life...

Fall Festival

2011-11-05T19:59:00.000-07:00

We've had the craziest weather these last few days. One day is clear and beautiful, the next is cold and wet. Fortunately, today was one of the nicer days so our family went up to Meredith's preschool for their Fall Festival. It's the school's biggest fundraiser with every activity imaginable for the kids, food and drinks, and a silent auction. The bidding at the auction got a little crazy with folks hovering over baskets they really wanted in those final minutes before bidding closed. Baskets ranged from a dozen Lego sets to health/sport items (golf, barre classes, etc.), one night stays at the local luxury hotels to "date night" packages (it was actually four date nights with certificates to fancy restaurants, babysitting, etc. -- nice!), plastic surgery... Yes, plastic surgery. This is southern California, after all. One of the moms at the school who regularly receives Botox injections got her plastic surgeon to donate four or five $1000 gift certificates to be included in various baskets. The highest bid I saw was for a "giving tree" full of gift cards, mainly retail, that was going for over $3500. We didn't get that high with our bid, but did win a pet portrait (painting). We've been wanting to do something like this in memory of Bela -- and to help out the preschool at the same time made it all worthwhile. We were all very happy that we went to the Fall Festival this year and are looking forward to having a portrait painted of B.

new friends

2011-11-03T21:00:00.000-07:00

This morning Meredith and I spent a few hours making new friends. A woman who moved to Carlsbad last week from Minnesota contacted me via a message board earlier this week. This morning we met at the local library for storytime and then afterwards we met at the beach for a picnic. It was a gorgeous day at the beach. Meredith enjoyed playing with this woman's 4 year old daughter, Ruby (she's one month younger than Meredith). And I enjoyed some conversation with this interesting woman while we kept the seagulls from eating our food and watched her husband surf. It was a really nice morning/early afternoon outing!

crazy hair day

2011-11-03T20:52:00.000-07:00

Thomas' school had Crazy Hair Day today. He was going to get his haircut Tuesday evening but when I heard it was Crazy Hair Day, I suggested we hold off and do something fun with his hair for today before cutting it. To my surprise, he was game. He really, really wanted to spray his hair a color so we rushed over to Target the day after Halloween and bought the last can of spray in the store. Seriously. Lucky for us, it was blue (as opposed to pink or purple). It was fun to have him wear his hair like this today but it really doesn't suit his personality so tonight we went and had them cut it all off. Now he looks like the clean cut, All-American boy that we all love again.

Book Club

2011-11-02T20:31:00.000-07:00

Wednesdays are a full day for Thomas. After school he goes straight to Science Club and then I pick him up and we go to the library for Book Club. His Book Club is called All Star Readers and they meet once a week to talk about a different genre. The librarian reads a sample book and they talk about it afterwards. It's a small group, mainly boys, in grades 1 thru 3. Each week he logs his reading time and during Book Club he receives a small reward (he thinks it's for reading, it's really just for coming). The Book Club is right up his alley. He loves the Science and Book Clubs so although it's a long day (and he's clearly tired), we've been doing both. It makes his Wednesday start with school at 8:20 and end after Book Club at 4:30pm. Wow!

Meredith and I will look at books while he's in Book Club. Sometimes she'll look at books with another little girl, Avery, who comes to the library at the same time every week with her Grandmother. The Grandmother once told me that I've done a very good job with my children. "You speak softly to them. It's very good. Don't stop." I like her.

After Book Club we'll look for some books to check out and/or do a little homework. Today Thomas did a little homework so I suggested to Meredith that she copy words from a book of her choice. She enjoyed this activity so much that she brought the book home and continued the activity until dinner. I love how much they both enjoy learning.

entertaining himself

2011-11-01T20:02:00.001-07:00

an invitation from Thomas

2011-11-01T18:44:00.000-07:00

We have a 13 year old girl who lives down the street that the kids adore. She and her mom have sat for us a few times and the kids ask occassionally when Kylie can come stay with them again. Today after school the kids started doodling at the kitchen table. Thomas was asking me all kinds of questions regarding when we eat dinner so I was curious what he was up to. He proudly showed me this invitation he made for Kylie and her mom, Debbie. He'd like to have them over for dinner soon.

dance class

2011-11-01T07:41:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T21:58:00.001-07:00

Meredith's ABCs

2011-10-30T21:33:00.000-07:00

Halloween on Elm

2011-10-29T22:01:00.000-07:00

One of our favorite Halloween events is the City's Halloween on Elm festivities. The kids love running around the Village area trick-or-treating all the merchants. The Farmer's Market is always open and there are many activities for the kids to enjoy. The police and fire departments are always there with their vehicles. It's a nice community event. This year we caught the costume contest which was fun to see, esp. when we saw friends parade across the stage. There were the usual suspects of pirates, princesses and furry creatures -- in addition to some really cool costumes, like a fish taco.

The Rocket Launch

2011-10-29T21:45:00.000-07:00

This afternoon was a highly anticipated event with the Cub Scouts: The Rocket Launch. The scouts were given rocket kits a week prior so they could assemble and paint their very own rockets. At this field location, they were able to get different launchers depending on how powerful of a launcher they wanted. The only caveat is that after the launch, they had to go retrieve their rockets once they had parachuted back down to the ground. Thomas got a few launches in of varying intensities before losing his rocket. They can really launch high up in the air! Thomas, of course, loved this event and the work that went into it.

beautiful M

2011-10-28T21:52:00.000-07:00

The only drawback to having nice weather all year long is that many things are done outdoors and sometimes you can't help but be seated facing the bright sun. This morning's school assembly was no different and all the photos I snapped had weird effects from the sun. But the photo above is just too cute to not share anyway. I love that sweet little face of hers.

special recognition for T

2011-10-28T20:48:00.001-07:00

6 year old boys

2011-10-27T19:59:00.000-07:00

Owen, Isaiah and Thomas

Tonight was the Halloween Fright Night festivities at Thomas' school. He's been looking forward to this evening ever since they started talking about it at school a few weeks ago. It was an opportunity to play some fun games, eat pizza and run around with his school friends in their costumes. I lost count of how many boys I saw tonight dressed from head to toe in black.

the "ghost face" and a mermaid

2011-10-27T19:53:00.000-07:00

October's Fall Harvest Party

2011-10-27T16:04:00.000-07:00

a writing sample spotted in Thomas' classroom today

Thomas and good pal, Miko, as "Presidents"

This morning I had the opportunity to volunteer in Thomas' classroom to help with their Fall Harvest Party. The kids had so much fun moving around the various stations. I was in charge of the bean bag "Pumpkin Toss" station which involved keeping the play in order, scoring and lots of cheering and high-fiving for the kids. Yes, I am that parent. Since the school does not allow costumes during school hours, the kids were encouraged to come dressed as grown ups today. Thomas chose to wear a polo shirt with a necktie, as did his friend who told me "Thomas and I are PRESIDENTS."

Jack-O-Lanterns

2011-10-26T20:53:00.000-07:00

this year's line up - Meredith's designs (2), "Scream" face and bats

Meredith produced some templates of her designs

Yesterday involved getting things ready for Halloween. Pumpkins were carved, costumes were purchased, pumpkin seeds were roasted, witches' brew was stirred and lots of fun was had for Grandma's last full day with us!

Parent Watch Day

2011-10-25T20:32:00.000-07:00

Meredith turns on the attitude (as directed by her teacher)

Meredith absolutely loves dance class. She practices all the time and talks about her teacher, Miss Christina, daily. Today's class was not only the last of the month (which means parents are invited in for the last 10 minutes of the 60 minute class), but an extra special "Parent Watch Day" so we were all invited in for the entire class. This was perfectly timed during Grandma's visit! Since Thomas had stayed home from school (to spend extra time with Grandma), he also got to sit in during her class today. We all loved watching Meredith and she loved it, too. Dancing, singing, acting... this girl may have a future in the performing arts!

Mummy Meredith

2011-10-24T21:01:00.000-07:00

This time of year, we really miss the wonderful pumpkin patches in and around Portland. The last time we went out to Sauvie Island was the October before we moved to California. Thomas was 2.5 years old and enjoyed hanging out with our friends' little boy, both boys scouring the patch for their perfect pumpkin. Meredith was 6 months old and happily snuggled up in a baby carrier. I have fond memories of that day and the whole pumpkin patch experience.

The pumpkin patches here in Southern Calif. really pale in comparison to the patches in Portland. I find these here depressing -- not to mention very expensive. I can't pay for the clunky rides at these patches when we live 2 miles from Legoland where the rides are great (and safe!). If there is food, it's always fair/carnival food. The pumpkins are always overpriced and trucked in from somewhere else because the pumpkin patches are always setup in abandoned parking lots. We've been to all the local ones (one a year), even the "real farm" an hour away... and still find ourselves stopping by Trader Joe's on our way home to purchase pumpkins.

Red Ribbon Week

2011-10-23T20:46:00.000-07:00

The Cub Scouts (and Girl Scouts) who attend Thomas' elementary school were invited to participate in a community service project this afternoon at the school. Their job? Tie red ribbons around campus for the school's Red Ribbon Week coming up this week. We all got to help out today!

Grandma's visit!!

2011-10-21T20:25:00.000-07:00

Few things or people make these kids as happy as their Grandma. This morning I picked her up at the airport in San Diego. She'll be staying with us until Wednesday. These two kids are going to love every second of their time with her!

Word Scrambles by Thomas

2011-10-20T20:23:00.000-07:00

I love when the kids surprise me with something they've come up with all on their own. This morning, Thomas began making me some Word Scrambles to work on.

proofs

2011-10-19T20:02:00.000-07:00

Usually the kids' school photos are identical. The photographer sends home three proofs from the sitting and all three photos will be exactly the same. Same pose, same smile. Heck, most often it could be the same photo simply printed three times. Until today when Meredith brought home her proofs. The three photos are actually different. Not greatly different, but there is a difference. And our problem now? We love them all and can't decide which one is "the best".

an evening with the Cub Scouts

2011-10-18T20:49:00.000-07:00

Following their Pack meeting this evening, the boys were asked to make a quick note, card, or drawing for the troops in Afghanistan. Thomas created this rainbow turkey and Meredith drew this colorful crown below. Tonight's meeting was extra long because the Den meeting preceded the Pack meeting. In total, it was 2.5 hours of Cub Scouts this evening. Thomas, of course, loved every minute of it. He was dressed and ready to go 2 hours before the meetings even began! Meredith was wonderfully patient and demonstrated better listening and following along skills than most of the Cubs in Thomas' Den. These kids never cease to amaze me.

party girls

2011-10-17T21:12:00.000-07:00

During her friend's birthday party, I stood off to the side so my photos weren't as good as another mom's. I love this one of Meredith and her friends Sophia and Charlise, the birthday girl.

the Wild Wonders party

2011-10-15T20:15:00.000-07:00

This afternoon Meredith and I went to her friend Charlise's 3rd birthday party. A "Wild Wonders"-themed party wouldn't be complete without wild animals -- today that meant a boa constrictor, an alligator, Penelope the porcupine, an armadillo and a few others. The kids loved learning about the different animals and getting an opportunity to get up close to them. Meredith says the armadillo was her favorite today!

Tiger Cubs: first outing

2011-10-15T20:01:00.000-07:00

Thomas' Tiger Cubs den had their first activity meeting this morning. The boys met at the (local) Batiquitos Lagoon for a docent-led tour. They learned some different things about the lagoon like special birds that come to the lagoon, lemonade berries that grow here, how water flows into the lagoon, etc. It was a fun outing for Thomas and Mike to do together.