Borden Family Adventures

One Month with Baby Ben

2011-10-03T13:48:00.000-07:00

Today Ben had his one month check up. He is doing very well and just keeps growing. Although full term, he is still a little peanut.

Today’s Stats

8lbs 14.5oz (10%), 20.5in (2%)

More of Baby Ben from the last month….

We have had a great time getting to know our little guy. He is a very laid back baby, only fussing when he is hungry. He does a lot of sleeping during the day and we are working on getting him to go longer than 3 hours between feedings at night. The girls are great with him, love to help, love to hold him and touch him, have to check out all of his new toys, even pick out his clothes. He doesn’t get much personal space around here.

Sticks and Snails and Puppy Dog Tails…

2011-09-03T21:46:00.000-07:00

That’s what little BOYS are made of!

Our bouncing Baby BOY Benjamin James blessed us with his early arrival Tuesday, August 30th at 3:43 pm. Weighing 7lbs 3.4oz, and 18.25 in long. He is perfect and managed to stay in my belly long enough to be considered full term at 37wks 4days.

I had a cesarean section scheduled for September 12th, possibly the 9th but had a feeling I would have the baby a few days before that. I did not expect to have an August baby though. I woke up Tuesday morning with the plan to run errands and get some last minute baby items. I woke up with some contractions but had been having contractions for weeks, so I didn’t think much of it. Then the contractions started to hurt a little more. With each contractions I began to lose a little fluid and no, I wasn’t peeing myself. I thought about calling the doctor but knew I had an appointment on Wednesday so I figured I could wait a day. But then it kept happening. At 8:45, I called Nana and told her that I needed her. I decided it was best to call the doctor and figure out what was happening. Nana was on her way but wouldn’t be able to make it until about 10:30 as the drive from Gig Harbor to Seattle isn’t quick. I called Aunite Katie for back-up until Nana could get there. Auntie Katie was heading to tutor a student, but Uncle Ryan was able to come hang with the girls. I jumped in the shower and then called the doctor. They told me to come into the office and if I needed, they would walk me over to the hospital. I got in the car and began to drive. Thinking I would see what the doctor said before alarming Daddy. About five minutes into my drive, it hit me that I was probably not coming home. I immediately called Chad and then sent him a text to call me asap. I don’t think he expected me to say I thought my water broke and I was on my way to the doctor. Well, I showed up at the doctor and sure enough she confirmed that yes indeed, my water broke! It still feels weird saying “my water broke”. My birth with the girls was planned and this one was supposed to be too. Going into actual labor was not what I had expected. I was wheeled over to labor and delivery where Daddy met me and we waited to hear what the plan was. We were final told that I would be having my c-section at 2pm, which then got bumped to 3pm. So just after 3pm, I was wheeled into the OR and the process of Ben’s birth began. Right before the surgery began I looked at Chad and asked “what do you think”? “Another girl” was his reply. A few minutes later, we heard the cry, Daddy stood up, looked over the curtain and said “Boy, it’s a boy!” I think we were both shocked. I began to cry, and daddy walked over to watch him get cleaned up and weighed. The surprise was perfect and as hard as it was to not find out what we were having, I am so glad we waited. I will never forget that moment. \

IT’S A BOY!!!!!!!!

Benjamin James 7lbs 3.4oz, 3:43pm, August 30, 2011

Daddy has a son. Hey there little guy

Very proud dadda

Meeting Nana and Auntie Kendra Papa has another grandson.

Here come the crazy sisters, excited to meet their new baby brother.

Madi wasn’t too sure about mommy being in the bed all hooked up to IV’s, and was very curious about her baby brother.

Emma was very excited to meet Baby Ben

Daddy and his three little babes.

Happy Birthday Baby Ben!

Uncle Ryan and Auntie Katie (Thanks for watching the girls so I could go to the hospital and have Baby Ben)

Nap time with daddy

Awake for a brief moment

Waiting to go home

All set and ready for the world.

My little Squeakers are four years old.

2011-07-18T20:46:00.001-07:00

To My Dearest Darling Madeline,

Today you are four years old and I can’t believe how fast the last four years have gone by. Some moments you are four going on sixteen and others you are four wishing you were still one. During all those moments, you light up my heart. I love to watch your spirit as you go about things independently with such determination and flare. I also love the moments when only mommy will do and you cuddle up on my lap like you did when you were just a baby. I could spend hours snuggling you, breathing you in as I did when you were an infant. But then again, watching you act as if you are sixteen is quite entertaining at times. The drama, the hands on the hips, the eye rolls, the desire for make-up and shoes, it is all coming way too soon and you are way too good.

You have learned so much this year. You began preschool in the fall and have slowly come out of your shell, making friends and sharing your spirit with those around you. You have learned to write your name and are very proud when you do something well. You still have a love for books and I sometimes quietly listen to you “read” a story as you look at the pictures. You use great voice inflection as you read, as if you were a teacher reading to her class. You are also a great negotiator with both your sister and me. You have a natural ability to convince others of your ideas getting them to go along with you. I can see your little mind at work when you encounter something you want, or have a great idea or plan. You also like order, you take that extra second to put something back where it belongs or to organize and sort things. You are great at organizing the art cabinet, putting everything in its place.

As you grow and experience new things, I can see your confidence growing. It didn’t take you long to get going with swimming lessons, although you have always loved the water, so that wasn’t a huge surprise. Daddy says you are doing great in soccer and I know it is because you can be so confident and willing when I am not around to coddle you. You are more willing to try new things and are often so happy that you did. I can’t wait to see this part of you continue to grow in the years to come.

Even though you are four today, I am still able to look in your big beautiful blue eyes and see my tiny little baby. You will always be my little baby.

I love you so very much,

Mommy

To My Dearest Darling Emma,

Four years ago today the happiest baby in the world was born, and that was you. From the beginning we have called you our little happy jack and to this day it still fits. You continue to bounce around the house, down the street and where ever we go with a skip in your step and a smile on your face. You spread joy where ever you go and I find it impossible to be upset when my little happy jack is around. You are genuinely a happy kid and spreading joy just comes so naturally for you. You give the most wonderful, spontaneous hugs, kisses and I love you’s. I never get tired of being on the receiving end of them. Sometimes it is a random kiss on the hand as we walk down the street, or the spontaneous “Mama, mama, I love you” as we are sitting around the house or driving in the car. The absolute best is watching you with your daddy though. I still have yet to see a little girl love her daddy the way you do. No one compares to your dad, not even me. The level of excitement you show when he walks in the door is unmatched. I wish I could bottle it up and release it whenever I feel sad.

You have grown and learned so much this year. Once you figured out how to write your name you wrote it everywhere, connecting the m,m,a as if it were a grownup signature. You also learned to stand up for yourself and that you didn’t always have to say yes to your sister. Although it has caused some unhappy moments for all, I am very proud of you. You are very compassionate and caring and don’t like to see others upset or hurt, so you are often willing to comply or work something out. You get along with everyone and don’t mind playing by yourself too. You love to sit quietly and draw or write in a notebook. The other day at Auntie Katie’s you drew a map and used it to get everyone to the frozen yogurt shop. You continue to surprise me with the things you have picked up along your little journey.

Although you have your shy moments, you are often comfortable and confident in trying new things and jumping into new activities. You are very good at showing your sister what fun can be had, and that it’s okay. Although, showing her how to jump off the top of the slide in the backyard was a little alarming. I still am waiting for the day we rush off to the ER with a broken bone. I know it is coming as you get stronger and more daring.

I am so thankful and grateful that I get to be your mom and get to spend my days with you. Watching you grow, learn, and bounce around this world brings me so joy.

I love you with all my heart,

Mommy

El Paso, TX

2011-02-24T20:08:00.000-08:00

El Paso, TX has never been on my list of places to visit but now that the Karhan Clan has made the move, we made the trip. The girls and I headed down for a week. The kids all had so much fun playing together. We don’t see our cousins often enough with them living so far away. We definitely enjoyed the sunny weather and spent lots of time at the park, visited the zoo, and just played outside in the yard and sandbox.

Magic Carpet Ride

2011-02-13T18:48:00.000-08:00

The girls have been going to ski school for a couple weeks. They have moved on to the magic carpet and bunny hill. Emma is doing great and seems to really enjoy skiing. Madi is taking her time to figure it all out. She will get there in her own time as she always does. They both have made big strides since we started.

Emma on her way up the magic carpet. She loved going up all by herself.

Emma making pizza, coming down the bunny hill.Focused and trying to practice turns.

Madi taking a snack break.

Emma still skiing.

Madi, happily heading up the magic carpet.

Madi, not so happy about coming down the bunny hill.

Getting the hang of it. Feeling a little better working her way down slowly.

Mani and Pedi with Auntie

2011-01-19T18:27:00.000-08:00

The girls love spending time with Auntie Kendra. They also love getting their finger nails and toe nails painted so Auntie treated them to some pampering at home tonight.

Our Little Ski Bunnies

2011-01-09T19:04:00.000-08:00

Today we started ski school with the girls. We enrolled them in a seven week program through Ski Masters. Because of their young age it is a parent/toddler class meaning Daddy and Mommy get to participate too. They were a bit hesitant at first, but Emma picked it up pretty quickly. Madi is still our little cautious one and it took her a little while to warm up to the idea. Plus with me there, it made it even harder. But all in all it went well and we are hopefully on our way to many more years of skiing as a family.

All geared upEmma showing off her new skills

To Infinity and Beyond

2011-01-08T18:56:00.000-08:00

Toy Story is a huge hit in this house. Santa loaded up the girls with a Toy Story Christmas and they couldn’t have been more excited. Tim also came through as usual with gifts for the girls. They are quite spoiled by him. After his return from the East Coast for the holidays, he had one more surprise for them.

Watching and waiting

They weren’t quite sure what to think.

Capozzi-Richards Playdate

2010-12-31T20:30:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we had the a little playdate at our house with Nana, the Aunties, cousins and our friends the Richards. Kate has two young boys, Jake who is a couple months younger than the girls and Ben who is the baby of the group. It was fun to have all the littles together.

All the kids decorating cookies while the adults attempted to socialize and catch up.

Emma and Jake playing legos.

Ben so badly wanted to play with Papi.

After all the fun, Molly got to have a sleep over with the girls. It was a long day and the girls crashed.

Having some toast in the morning before having to take Molly down to meet Auntie Kiersten.

Being silly

Projects with Daddy

2010-12-30T20:08:00.000-08:00

The girls got some great little art project kits for Christmas that they get to do with Daddy. He is off the whole week between Christmas and New Year’s so they have a lot of time to hang out and have fun.

Monday night’s project- paper bag puppets

Reading the map to see what needs to be done first.

Wednesday’s project- more puppets

“Let’s see, what do I do first?”

Christmas 2010

2010-12-26T18:52:00.000-08:00

We weren’t sure if we would be able to celebrate Christmas with our cousins this year or not. They were in the process of moving from Augusta, GA to El Paso, TX but were able to take the time to make the trip home. We celebrated Christmas Eve at our house with Nana, Papa, Auntie Kendra, Auntie Katie, Uncle Ryan, Auntie Kiersten, Uncle Joe, and of course our favorite cousins Caroline, Nicholas and Molly. In an attempt to keep the kids entertained and out of trouble we set up an art table in the living room for them. It kept them happy for a little while, but it wasn’t long before they were running and jumping around. Dinner at the kiddie table. And no Untie Kendra did not have to sit there, she was just hanging out.All the stockings were hung by the chimney with care and Santa did a great job filling them this year.

After opening a few presents at home, we headed to Nana and Papa’s to enjoy the rest of the day with the family.

Yatzee has become a big hit in our house this last year. We had a great time playing with everyone. Even the kids got to play.Emma was a champ at rolling the dice for Auntie Kendra.Emma had enough and moved onto her new toys.

Stockings round two.

Molly showing off her fancy new skirt

Helping Nana open her presents.

Santa Pictures

2010-12-22T16:57:00.000-08:00

Each year we take the girls to Nordstroms downtown to get their picture taken with Santa. This year the fear factor was still in play and no matter how hard I tried I couldn’t get the girls to sit with Santa. So instead they sat with me and Santa stood behind the chair. Oh well, there is always next year.

Last year both Nana and BB were in the picture with them and the year before they were screaming their heads off.

Gingerbread Houses and Choo-Choo Trains

2010-12-20T16:44:00.000-08:00

The Christmas preparations have begun. This year I thought the girls would have fun putting together a gingerbread house so I picked up a kit at Trader Joes. It was the perfect simple little kit and the girls had fun decorating it. I do think more candy ended up in their mouths than on the house though.

Do you see the candy in Madi’s mouth?

Papa has an amazing electric train set up under their Christmas tree each year. They girls love playing with it and using the controls to make it go. Last year the girls received this small little Polar Express train set with a remote so we decided to put it under our tree. Not quite the same as Papa’s but it did the trick.

Unfortunately, this year we didn’t go cut down our own Christmas tree. We didn’t have time and the weather was awful so we grabbed one from a local tree lot. It wasn’t quite the same but the girls had fun hanging decorations.

Thanksgiving Trip to Mass

2010-12-04T19:54:00.000-08:00

Each year Daddy has a business meeting in Boston the week after Thanksgiving so we decided this year it would be fun to spend Thanksgiving visiting BB, and Grammy and Grampie. We were scheduled to fly out Monday night on the redeye. And Monday morning the snow began to fall, and fall, and fall. By that evening the roads around us were closed and the freeways were all a MESS!!! Of course the girls were excited and ready to get on the airplane. It is hard to explain that we aren’t going to two three year olds who have their hearts set on it. Madi even stated that she didn’t like the snow because we couldn’t drive in it. We called the airline and they told us that if the flight was canceled we would be rebooked. If the flight wasn’t canceled we would have to pay the change fee and difference in fare to get on a new flight. Because there was NO way for us to get to the airport, we told them we would not be going and prayed that the flight would be canceled. Somehow the flight ended up taking off at 3am (scheduled for 10:30pm) without the Bordens. Now, because Chad had to get back to Boston for his meeting, he was able to work with his company’s travel department and they were able to work with Jet Blue and we were all able to get on the redeye Tuesday night without paying an extra penny. I was so excited and so were the girls. They totally came through for us. We finally arrived at BB’s around noon on Wednesday.

Thursday we headed to Westport to spend Thanksgiving with Grammy and Grampie. The food was fabulous and it was fun to see the Borden side of the family. Friday, we headed back to Duxbury and were able to spend some time with our friends Lucy and Hank. On Saturday, Mommy and Daddy got to go out to a little party hosted by the Bartletts and catch up with everyone.

Every year at the town center there is a little holiday festival with pony rides and pictures with Santa. We took the girls up there, hit the hot spots and headed home. On Monday, Daddy headed to Boston for his meeting while the girls and I stayed in Duxbury and hung out with BB. The weather was beautiful so the girls spent a lot of time outside. We made it to the beach one day and then took the girls to a great little Christmas village another day. Daddy’s meeting ended Thursday so the girls and I went up to Boston to meet him and stay the night before flying out on Friday. We took the girls to The Children’s Museum, walked around the city, and had lunch with Uncle Jake before flying home. The girls loved this giant cat that Grammy and Grampie had. Madi enjoying her Pumpkin pie. I think she just liked the whip cream.They had a blast playing with Grampie and jumping all over his chair and the couches.

Watching morning cartoons in Grampie’s favorite chair.BB got the girls scooters for Christmas. They took a little while to get used too, they had way more fun when daddy was pushing.They girls could spend days painting with BB in her studio. Our first photo with Santa at Hal’s Corner.Pony rides!BB and the girls driving Santa’s sleigh being pulled by the Duxbury dragon.Helping BB rake the leaves. Or at least playing in them.Off to the beach even if it is only 40 some degrees. More running around the yard and all the neighbors’ yards too.One of my most favorite pictures.And another one.

Looking at the Christmas Village put together by Jordan’s Furniture. It was really neat and the girls got to experience their first laser light show after walking through the displays.

Ice Skating Princesses and Friends

2010-11-13T20:53:00.000-08:00

We took the girls to Disney on Ice today with our friends the Headys and Donovans. It wasn’t quite as exciting as we had anticipated but I think the girls had fun. They were really happy to see all the Toy Story friends come out at the end.

I love the way Emma is looking up at her daddy.

Trick or Treat

2010-11-01T21:42:00.000-07:00

Of course, after the run through the sprinkler we had to go Trick or Treating that night. We just went around to houses in the neighborhood. It took the girls a little while to warm up to it and they didn’t last long but they had fun and loved looking through all their loot.

Halloween Fun in the Sun

2010-10-31T21:38:00.000-07:00

The day started off with beautiful sunshine. The girls were running around the house playing and doing the crazy things they do. I was downstairs when Madi came down the stairs carrying her swim suit. She insisted on putting it on and decided that because it was sunny that she and Emma needed to run around in the sprinkler. With this idea, Emma had her suit on in no time as well. I tried to explain to them that even though it was sunny, it wasn’t warm enough to run around in the sprinkler. They didn’t believe me, so I thought the only thing to do was to allow them to suffer the natural consequence. It was probably 45 degrees out and they had the time of their lives. It really didn’t go as I thought. I thought the minute they walked outside they would change their minds and believe me. No such luck. They came in dripping wet and all smiles.

Pumpkin Carving with Daddy

2010-10-24T23:14:00.000-07:00

Our family trip to the pumpkin patch wasn’t successful, we were there for probably a total of ten minutes. Emma threw up and Madi had an accident (not her fault). Chad literally grabbed two pumpkins and we took off.

When it was time to carve, the girls were pretty excited. Emma jumped right in and had no problem getting her hands dirty. Madi did, but wasn’t too thrilled with her hands being covered in pumpkin guts.

Pumpkin Patch Field Trip with Nana

2010-10-24T22:24:00.000-07:00

I can not put into words how much I appreciated Nana’s presence on our field trip to the pumpkin patch with the girls’ preschool. There is NO way I could have done it alone. The girls ran in two different directions, at least one of them was needy or whiney at any given time and there is no way I could have handled the two of them, their two pumpkins, lunches, and jackets without a stroller.

The field trip was a lot of fun. We went to The Farm at Swan Lake just north of Seattle. It is a great farm with all kinds of fun stuff for the kids to do. They ran through a hay barn which ended in a big slide, had rubber ducky races, a corn pit, swings, animals, tractors to climb on, you name it, they had it.

As soon as we got there we jumped on the hay ride out to the pumpkin patch where the girls got to pick out their pumpkin. Emma had a hard time picking the perfect one. This one? Or maybe this one. On the tire swings that were shaped like horses.

Rubber ducky water races. Nana was brave and played in the corn with them. The girls loved running and jumping around on these huge hay roles. More fun in the corn pit. Climbing the hill to slide down the large tube slides. Another hit. More fun on the swings.Digging in the sand. Racing the ducks.

The Zoo with Nana

2010-10-23T23:21:00.000-07:00

Daddy was out of town, so Nana came up to play for a few days. On Thursday, we took Nana to our zoo, the Woodland Park Zoo. The girls have been to Pt. Defiance with Nana a handful of times, but we haven’t taken her to our zoo. It was a beautiful day and the girls had fun running around. We even went stroller free for the first time, which was interesting. Stroller free also means no big bag or big camera. Thankfully Nana had hers. Some days the girls are more interested in climbing all over the rocks and exhibits than actually looking at the animals.

We love cupcakes!

2010-10-19T22:51:00.000-07:00

The girls love all the little cupcake shops that have popped up EVERYWHERE! It is impossible to go to U Village without them asking to go to the cupcake store. Today we met up with Emerson for lunch and after a good meal the girls were treated to cupcakes. There is something so cute about little kids trying to figure out how to each a huge cupcake.

Exercising with Daddy

2010-10-18T22:30:00.000-07:00

When daddy comes home from a run, he likes to stretch and do some exercises. Well, the girls have decided that it is fun to join him and exercise with him. Last night, the girls were showing daddy their skills. It was so funny.

Emma doing push ups. Madi stretching her quads.

And then a few crunches.

Visit from the Seattle Firefighters

2010-10-15T22:20:00.000-07:00

There is a wonderful new fire station down the street from the girls’ preschool and the very kind firefighters brought their big fire engine and parked it right out front of the school. They came inside a spoke to the kids, let them ask questions, then they got to go explore the fire engine. Emma had a blast, Madi wasn’t so comfortable. She actually wasn’t comfortable with any of the visit. At one point one of the firefighters knelt down and whispered something in her ear. I would pay $10,000 to know what he said to her. Who doesn’t want to drive a fire engine?

Heady Halloween

2010-10-10T21:57:00.000-07:00

Yesterday (October 9th) we attended a Halloween celebration at our friend Emerson’s house. The Headys went all out and had crafts and treats and games to play. The kids were all so cute in their costumes.

A Walk in the Park

2010-09-22T16:14:00.000-07:00

Happy Fall! On Tuesday, we got together with Jackson and Brody for a walk at Discovery Park. It was a beautiful fall day and an interesting walk. I didn’t have a stroller and the girls weren’t really into walking much.

Do The Puyallup

2010-09-15T00:26:00.000-07:00

We hit the Puyallup Fair with Emerson again this year and this year Lyla and our boys Jackson and Brody came too. It was a perfect day for the fair. We went on a Tuesday so it wasn’t very crowded, it was a little overcast and it was a day when the rides were cheap. After walking around, checking out a few animals, we made our way over to the rides. Emma was over the moon excited to ride every ride. Madi was excited until it was her turn to get on. She managed to get on a few and with each one her confidence grew. By the end of the day she was having a blast.

The girls first fair ride. The girls discovered if you pulled on the handle, the rocket went way up in the air. Emma and Jackson cruising down the river. No hands! Emma, Emerson and Jackson are sitting in the front. Jackson driving away with Madi, on their first date Brody and Emma heading down the road.

First Day of Big Girl Preschool

2010-09-08T00:01:00.000-07:00

The last three years, the girls and I participated in some wonderful co-op preschool programs. We had a great time learning and playing together but it was time to move on. This year the girls started at Seattle Preschool where they get to go without me. They go to school Monday, Wednesday and Friday each week and get to enjoy an hour of gymnastics each day as well. It is bitter sweet for me; it means they are growing up and becoming more independent, but it also means I get some “me” time.

Emma’s excitement about starting school. Of course it was pouring down rain for their first day. Walking into school They got settled pretty quickly and had a great first day.

Road trip #2

2010-09-07T00:03:00.000-07:00

This time Momma was allowed to come too. We took the girls to Vancouver, Canada for Labor day. We took off Sunday morning, enjoyed the drive up and checked into our hotel downtown near the waterfront. After getting settled we walked over to the Vancouver Aquarium. The aquarium was packed, but we managed to see some great stuff. Right as we got there, they announced they were about to start the dolphin show. The girls and I found a prime spot for watching and daddy got us ice cream. The dolphin show was amazing! Daddy and I had the girls on our shoulders so we weren’t able to take any pictures. The dolphins were jumping out of the water right in front of us and about 10 feet away. Madi was cheering louder than I have ever heard her. I can’t wait to take them to Sea World some day.

Ice cream cheers!

Waiting for the dolphin show.

Watching the beluga whales. Walking back to the hotel.

Emma and Daddy

The Greatest Show on Earth

2010-08-31T00:03:00.000-07:00

Saturday the 28th we took the girls to see The Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey Circus. The girls loved it! We had great seats and they just watched in awe. They loved all the animals. It was REALLY good! Even Daddy and I had a great time.

Madi loved the Chinese lions.

ROAD TRIP!!!!

2010-08-23T23:08:00.000-07:00

Saturday morning, the girls took off with Daddy for their first father-daughter road trip. The girls were so excited. Daddy took them to Westport, WA for a day at the beach and a night in a hotel. Mommy and Auntie Kendra enjoyed a Seahawks preseason game and a nice quiet night.

Trying to fly their ladybug kite, but it wasn’t windy enough. Watching the surfers.

There was an art festival in town that day, the girls had their faces painted. Yellow and red spider girls. Daddy with his girls. Priceless!

What Fun It Was…

2010-08-09T22:36:00.000-07:00

To grow up in Forest Ridge. While Kiersten and the cousins were in town, so were all of our friends from my childhood. We grew up on a great little street in Gig Harbor with lots of kids to run around with. On Saturday, August 7th we were all able to get together at Nana and Papa’s. We got to catch up with the whole Richards gang, the Sarrensen Clan, The Majeskis, and the Fishers. With everyone all grown up there were quite a few little ones running around including three sets of twins. It was so much fun to see everyone.

The weather could have been better but the kids didn’t care either way. They all wanted to play on the giant slide regardless. The three sets of twinkies and their Forest Ridge mom and dads. I still find it incredible that three of us on our street ended up with twins all within about a year of each other. The original crew, top to bottom, left to right;

Chelle M, Kiersten C, Peter S, Patrick R, Kendra C, Katie R, Susie F, Scott S, Courtney C, Christina S, and Katie C. Missing was Steven M and Jeff F.

Kiersten and Christina, the two first born girls with their own first born girls, Caroline and Scout.

An attempt to get all the littles in one picture.

Caroline and Scout had so much fun.

Nana and Becky, my other mom. Now that I am a mom I can appreciate the support these two amazing women provided for each other. Being silly

Fun with our cousins

2010-08-06T16:35:00.000-07:00

We arrived home from Duxbury on Friday and were welcomed back into town by our cousins visiting from Georgia. Kiersten, Caroline, Nicholas and Molly were staying with Nana and Papa for a couple weeks. On Monday, they came up to Seattle to spend a few nights at our house. The kids all had so much fun playing together. Nicholas and Emma playing in the sprinkler. Time for popcicles. Emma and Molly getting ready for the Seattle Aquarium. You can just see the tops of Molly’s, Nicholas’ and Madi’s heads as they watch the octopus swim through the tunnel over their heads. I have never seen the giant octopus move around the way it was that day. Very cool!

Running wild on the pier.

“Hi, so nice to see you”. For some reason the girls love to pretend they are long lost friends who haven’t seen each other in a while. They will look at each other than run to each other saying “hi, so nice to see you”. Then they hug and run away. They do this at home and at the park all the time.

Big hug!And they’re off…

We also took them to the sprinkler park in Bellevue for some fun in the sun. I seemed to have erased those pictures from my camera. I can’t find them anywhere. :(

On Thursday, we headed down to GH and met Nana, Kiersten, Caroline, Nicholas and Molly at Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium. Playing with Nana at Point Defiance Zoo. The three babes catchin’ a ride on the stroller. Sliding down the big rocks.

Our Last Days in Duxbury

2010-07-31T16:28:00.000-07:00

Here are a few last pictures of our summer trip.

Playing in the rain

On one of our last trips to the beach Lucas, Nora and Paula joined us. Lucas randomly decided to start pouring sand on Madi’s head and she didn’t flinch. She just sat there and actually seemed to enjoy it. Little did we know that Emma would come along with water and proceed to pour that on her head too. Emma and BB looking at a book about horses.

A couple nights before we left, the girls were having a rough evening. BB had the great idea of going for a sunset walk along Duxbury bridge. The girls had do much fun running along the bridge in the wind. It was just what they needed. We even went under the bridge to check out the sunset.

Goodbye Duxbury.

SO HAPPY

2010-07-24T21:27:00.000-07:00

I don’t think I have seen a bigger grin on Madi’s face. On Friday we went to the Marshfield Farmer’s Market and the girls got to go on a pony ride. Emma went first and had BB walk close. You can see she is a little nervous. Then it was Madi’s turn. I half expected Madi to back out at the last second, but she climbed up on that pony and just smiled. She smiled so big the entire time.

Here we go… Madi was so happy and confident riding that pony.

Another little adventure

2010-07-23T21:18:00.000-07:00

On Thursday we took a short little trip to Little Compton, Rhode Island to visit with BB’s cousin Susan and her family. They were renting a house near the beach. The beach was beautiful and the waves were much larger than on Duxbury beach. The girls did great and had a lot of fun jumping off the rocks and playing in the sand.

Make Way for ….

2010-07-22T21:02:00.000-07:00

~~Ducklings~~ Madi and Emma. On Wednesday we went on an adventure with Nana and BB to Boston Gardens to take a ride on the Swan Boats. Daddy reads Make Way for Ducklings to the girls often. They were very excited to see the swan boats and even more excited to see the bronze statues of Mrs. Mallard and her eight ducklings.

More days at the beach

2010-07-21T20:52:00.000-07:00

We spent Monday and Tuesday at the beach running around in the sun.

A rare picture with mommy.Fun in the waves

Madi on the attack

Birthday Fun

2010-07-19T20:36:00.000-07:00

I know it has been over a month since I posted. The days on the beach and pouring all of my attention and energy into two three year olds has me a little burnt out.

So here we go…

On July 17th Nana flew in to spend ten days with us. She was with us to celebrate the girls’ third birthday. We didn’t have anything formal planned but had a great day anyway. We spent some time on the beach, opened presents with daddy on Skype and went to a fabulous get together hosted by our friends the Tassells. The girls had a great time, the only thing missing was Daddy.

Playing with Nana Chasing BB with their new squirt guns.

Skyping with Daddy and Auntie Kendra

Opening presents with Daddy

Blowing out candles YUM

The Tassells were in town from San Diego and rented a great little house on Brant Rock. They hosted a great party with a clown for the kids and lobster for the adults. They thought of everything and it was a great time.

Daisy the clown making animal balloons. Daisy had the attention of all the kids. Putting on some magic for the kids.

Nana reading them a birthday bedtime story in their new jammies from their friend Lucas.

Happy Happy Birthday to my Sweet Little Babies!!!!

2010-07-18T05:54:00.001-07:00

Three years ago today Madeline and Emma came into this world to change our lives forever. It has been an incredible three years that have flown by before my eyes. It is hard to put into words the joy these two little girls bring into my life. They are amazing little people to watch grow.

Happy Birthday girls!!!

To my Dearest Darling Madeline,

I can’t believe another year has passed. The time seems to be flying by right before my eyes and with each second you are growing into an incredible little girl. You are my spirited child. Although your spirit can be challenging at times, it is what I love about you. With each facial expression you make or phrase you speak I can see your little mind at work. You often surprise me with your memory, perceptiveness and sense of reasoning. You have an incredible love for music and spend much of your day singing songs you know or making up new ones. You love to read, do puzzles and dance. Your imagination blows me away; creating games and pretend play wherever you are. You are cautious about new situations, often clinging to my side until you are ready. But once you are comfortable you are a natural leader, enthusiastic, and dramatic. You begin to have fun and your energy and laughter are contagious. You love your sister and are her biggest cheerleader. You love to sit on the sidelines and cheer her on before jumping in. I have so much fun watching you play together. You are tenderhearted and love to give hugs and kisses to all your toys and buddies. If we leave lamby in the car, you have to give it hugs and kisses before you get out. You are still my little cuddle bug. You crawl up in my lap as if you were still a newborn. I love it when you ask me to rock you like a baby and you look up at me with your incredible blue eyes, saying “I’m your baby”. You will always be my baby.

I love you with all my heart,

Mommy

To my Dearest Darling Emma,

It has now been three years that we have been blessed with you in our lives. With each day you grow sweeter and stronger physically and mentally. You still amaze me with your physical ability. You don’t walk anywhere, instead you run, skip and jump. You climb on anything possible and then turn around and jump right off it; all with an expression of happiness and pride. I am still surprised we have not ended up in the ER as you have no fear when it comes to trying anything physical. This year we put you on skis and you loved it, we put you in large swimming pools and you loved it, and we put you in gymnastics and you loved it. You are obsessed with basketball, especially your basketball pajamas. We now have six pairs because it is all you will wear. You have even asked to watch basketball instead of your shows on a number of occasions and often with your daddy. You have an incredible bond with your father. You are the ultimate daddy’s girl and it is amazing to watch. When you get hurt you cry on my shoulder “I need my daddy”. If he is around, you will leap from my arms to his. You still run to the front windows to watch him come home from work. You are still a little happy jack, not much can get you down. You are Madi’s best friend and she is yours. You are extremely thoughtful especially when Madi needs something. You will give up anything to make her happy. When Madi gets in trouble, you take it harder than she does. You don’t like to see her in timeout and will cry until she is done and bring her lamby. Your thoughtfulness and sense of empathy is admirable even at your young age. And I love how happy you are to share hugs and kisses with those you love. I can always count on a kiss from you to brighten my day.

I love you with all my heart,

Mommy

A Relaxing Week

2010-07-15T19:39:00.001-07:00

After Daddy left on Sunday, we spend Monday at the beach. We started off on the bay side then headed to the ocean side and played in the sand. Drawing in the sand with BB. Lounging with BB on the beach. Eating “cupcakes” Madi’s new hat. She marched around singing Happy Birthday.

After the beach, the girls had fun running around in the yard naked while playing with the hose. Madi turned a little devilish with the hose.

Tuesday morning before heading to a friend of a friend’s private beach, the girls started right where they left off the afternoon before.

The beach was a beautiful location, perfect for the little kids. We didn’t stay long as the girls were tired, but Emma had a great time playing with Zoe.

Showing Zoe how she swims.

Yesterday we had quite a bit of rain but today the weather cleared up a bit. We took a nice trip up to Scituate for lunch then went to the park. When we got home Madi and Emma went next door to play with the girls visiting their aunt. Elle and Maggie were playing lacrosse in the yard and were kind enough to let Madi and Emma crash their fun. They let the girls play with their lacrosse sticks and run around with them. They had so much fun.

A natural Madi playing goalie for Elle Trying to throw Elle the ball.

Playing tag with Maggie.

Playing tag with Elle.

Hugs and kisses goodbye After playing with the big girls, Emma picked some veggies in the garden with BB. She loves the green beans and peas.

After dinner the girls went back out and ran around with the girls.

Bye Daddy

2010-07-15T19:09:00.001-07:00

On Sunday we had to say goodbye to Daddy. The girls loved having him here. We took the girls to a local petting zoo and to lunch before we said goodbye.

Watching the pigs get comfy in the mud.

Cooling off

Feeding the cows.

Emma devouring Daddy’s clam chowder at lunch.

Another Day at the Beach

2010-07-14T19:53:00.001-07:00

We headed back to Duxbury on Thursday and spent one last full day at the beach with Daddy on Friday. The girls love the beach and really enjoyed playing with daddy in the sand and surf. The tide was perfect and we had a great day.

Westport

2010-07-14T18:30:00.001-07:00

On Tuesday we headed down to Westport to spend a few more days with Grampy and Grammy. We were able to go out on Grampy’s boat again. He took us to a great sandbar in the middle of the mouth of the river. We were able to hop out of the boat and walk around in the water. Emma enjoyed swimming with daddy and letting the current carry her. Grammy and Grampy also planned a cookout at the boat house with everyone. The girls enjoyed playing with the big girls, Meredith and Amanda again this year. It was fun to see how the have all grown since last year. The girls loved helping Grammy get the corn ready for dinner.So proud of her work muscles Did it!

Sitting with Grampy and Grammy Hugs

Wading through the water on the sandbar

Emma swimming of the edge of the sandbar where the water was a bit deeper and the current would carry her along.

Crashed out!

My sleeping beauties

Helping Meredith and Amanda shuck the corn for dinner Wednesday night at the boat house.

Fishing off the dock for eel. They didn’t catch one but we did see quite a large one swimming close.

Dinner time.Being silly with GrampyTickling toesSnuggles with Grammy.Emma sitting with Amanda. She loved the big girls. The four Borden girls.

Happy Fourth of July

2010-07-13T18:30:00.001-07:00

We started our Fourth of July with a trip to the beach. After a few hours we went back, got cleaned up and ready for the Duxbury fourth of July parade. We walked across the street and watched the parade perched up on the neighbor’s rock wall. The girls loved the parade and enjoyed waving their flags and waving to all the people. The candy that was thrown to them was pretty nice too. It was a very relaxing Fourth. With the fireworks and parties the night before, it was nice to have a quiet afternoon.Splashing daddy and daddy splashing back.

Big jump into the pool daddy made

Madi showing Uncle Jake how fast she is.

BB pulling Emma on her board. On our way to the parade. Climbing on the fence that lines BB’s driveway.

Waiting for the parade.

We ended the day with ice cream for dinner. It was a great day.

The Fun with Daddy Continues

2010-07-12T19:54:00.001-07:00

Saturday morning we hit the beach with daddy for fun in the sun. The girls were excited to “surf” with him. We spent most of the day at the beach. Uncle Jake joined us too. After a long day at the beach we went over to the Bornheimer’s for a pre-Fourth of July party and then on to meet the Frazier’s in Marshfield to watch fireworks and celebrate Allyson’s birthday. It was a great day spent with family and friends.

Finally at the beach with daddy.

Belly surfing.

Madi surfing

So happy her daddy is here.

Big One

MusclesObsessed with rocks!HugsKisses

Trying to tell Emma what to do and off Emma runs.

Uncle Jake

Emma flying high.Madi’s turn.

Madi and BB at Mrs. Bornheimer

Watching the big kids splash in the pool. JumpingEmma and Lucas. Emma is holding Lucus’ hand trying to help him jump. Instead she just shows him how it’s done.

Ryan did a better job helping Lucas jump.

And of course, Miss Lucy in the water again, this time in her cute Fourth of July outfit. She has quite a strong connection with the ocean.

Daddy Time

2010-07-12T18:11:00.001-07:00

Daddy arrived around 8:30 Friday, July 2nd. The girls were thrilled to see him. Emma just kept hugging him over and over. She is the ultimate daddy’s girl. We let him take a rest and get caught up on some sleep. Then we hung out at the house and got ready to meet some friends for dinner at the beach. It was a beautiful night and the girls had a great time playing with their friends. Daddy had a great time catching up with his friends too. As soon as we got there the girls took off with Lucy right down to the water. Within 5 minutes Lucy was swimming and the girls wanted their swimsuits on. It was 5:30 in the afternoon and they were ready for beach time.

Hank also was ready to jump in.

After changing back into dry clothes, the girls played with Zoe and Reed too.

After dinner the girls got to roast marshmallows for the first time. They liked roasting them and but not eating them, which was fine with me cause I love roasted marshmallows. And Lucy is swimming again in her jammies. She LOVES the water. Our buddies Zoe and Reed.

New England Aquarium

2010-07-11T19:46:00.001-07:00

The weather wasn’t quite beach weather on Thursday so we headed up to Boston to the New England Aquarium. It turned out to be a great trip. The girls enjoyed seeing the penguins and sea turtles. Then we headed across the street for lunch at Legal Sea Foods where I was able to enjoy another delicious lobster roll. We were home in time to relax and get a good night’s rest before daddy arrived the following morning.

Emma face to face with a giant sea turtle. A nurse shark in the main tank.Madi looking at the baby sea turtles.

The jelly fish were probably my favorite. Enjoying a snack and looking in the water on the pier. I think the girls had the most fun in the gift shop. They found a nice quite corner where they could sit and sing to all the stuffed penguins.

Little Artists

2010-07-11T19:27:00.001-07:00

On Wednesday, June 30th the girls and I returned to BB’s house. We stuck close to home and had a great day. We took a dip in the neighbor’s pool and checked out their chickens, which we learned Emma is terrified of. Then BB broke out the paints. She picked up some water colors for the girls while we were out one day. The girls loved it. Emma was loving every minute of it and was quite proud of her work. She would hold it up to show me while saying “it’s werry bootiful”.

Westport Part 1

2010-07-11T19:01:00.001-07:00

On Monday, June 28th the girls and I headed down to Westport to see Grammy and Grampy. Grampy came to pick us up and we had to make a stop for ice cream before going to the house. It was a hot day, not the hottest we have had, but hot. I have never seen ice cream melt as fast as it did that day. Even I couldn’t lick my cone fast enough to stop the dripping.

Emma’s cone was wrapped in napkins and baby wipes and the purple ice cream just kept dripping. Tuesday we were able to go out on Grampy’s boat. The girls have been talking about going on Grampy’s boat for months.

The girls insisted on bringing their new friends on the boat with them. Emma stole the cat’s toy dog and Madi has a golf club cover that is a gofer holding a golf ball. After a cruise on the boat we headed back to the ice cream stand to pick up ice cream for dessert. This time we got it in cartons and ate it at home. The girls had fun feeding the goats while Grampy got the ice cream.

A Fun Day at BB’s

2010-06-27T20:05:00.001-07:00

*Warning: Picture overload. It was too hard to narrow it down.

High Tide was at 1pm today which meant there wasn’t really a great time to go to the beach so we decided to stay home and play here. BB went out this morning and came home with a great kiddie pool for the girls. They had so much fun the laughter is still ringing in my ears. They are truly blessed to have each other; every day is a play day with their best friend and on days like this it really shows.

It wouldn’t be summer without watermelon dripping down your chin. Bouncing Bouncing More Bouncing From bouncing to jumping.

Best Friends

Friends and Ice Cream

2010-06-26T19:51:00.001-07:00

Last night we met the Fraziers, Bartletts, Tillsons, Andy and a few other families on the beach for dinner. It was a beautiful night and a lot of fun to see all the kids playing and parents visiting. It really doesn’t get any better, I just wish Daddy was here to join us.

Last year when we were here Keri was pregnant with Drew. We finally got to meet the handsome little man yesterday at the beach. We also got to play with Lucas again. Emma and Lucas had a lot of fun throwing rocks in the water together.

The birthday boy, Hank. Last year her was only a few weeks old when we arrived. Now he is ONE and toddling everywhere. Even giving sand surfing a try.

The birthday boy. Paula was also pregnant last year with Nora. We finally got to meet Lucas’ beautiful baby sister too. Madi pretty much didn’t move from her safe spot in the back of BB’s yukon. Lucy and Emma had fun hanging out in there too. We were even lucky enough to have a beautiful full moon rise over the water in front of us.

This morning BB and I took the girls on an adventure to Plymouth. They were quite excited about going on an adventure. After a brief walk over by the Mayflower we had to get ice cream. After going in all the shops and having lobster rolls for lunch we headed home. It was fun to play tourist.

Emma climbing on the side of the dock.

Emma and BB.

Emma eating purple ice cream in her purple dress on a purple stool. She was pretty happy with all the purple.

I love that you can see the reflection of her ice cream cone in her glasses.

Sun, Sprinklers and Surf

2010-06-24T19:21:00.001-07:00

Yesterday, we had some errands to run then went and met our friends Allyson, Lucy and Hank at the park. When we arrived home, BB was busy trying to blow up a 36” beach ball sprinkler. The thing is huge so she ran up to the gas station and had it blown up. Once the it was set up in the yard, the girls had a blast running around Earth and cooling down.

Today, after running more errands, we hit the beach again. Madi kept saying she wanted to go to the beach and go surfing. When we got there the tide was on it’s way out. The beach was a little rocky and the water was freezing but it didn’t stop the girls from having fun. After a little while, the water was out further and created a great sandbar.

Looking for big water falls, aka waves to surf in.

Our Summer Begins

2010-06-23T18:41:00.001-07:00

The weather in Seattle has been quite disappointing this spring leading into summer. One Monday night the girls and I boarded the red-eye flight to Boston where the weather has been much better. We arrived at 6:30 in the morning after a pretty smooth flight. The girls did great. Emma slept pretty much the whole time even through landing. Madi just wouldn’t give in and close her eyes. She just wanted to watch her movies. I think she slept for a total of two hours which means I slept even less. Uncle Jake picked us up and drove us down to BB’s. The girls got comfortable pretty quickly and were excited to see their “Owl” beds that BB set up for them. Around 10:30 or so, we all snuggled in for a short nap then went out to hit the beach. The girls picked up right where they left off last summer, running around enjoying it all; the sand, the surf and their beach toys. BB picked up a couple little kick boards for the girls which Madi quickly called her surf board and started walking around saying “Hey Dudes”. I think she picked that up from the Backyardagains surf’s up episode cause I have no idea where else she would have gotten it. She is now obsessed with surfing and all she wanted to do at the beach was try to surf on her kick board, Emma too of course. The had so much fun and no fear of the water, which was a little surprising to me.

Checking out the Owl beds. Emma snuggled right in to read a book. At the beach, finally. Surfing New beach chairs Madi loves the sand, she loves to lay in it and cover herself with it. Emma playing in the gigantic sandbox. I love how she has her “surf board” tucked under her arm.

Memorial Day

2010-06-08T20:23:00.001-07:00

Memorial Day weekend has been absolutely beautiful in years past. This year it was cold and rainy until the last few hours. Around 3pm the sun started shining so we took advantage of it and took the girls to see the boats going through the Ballard Locks. The girls had so much fun running around. After checking out the boats we went to Ray’s Boathouse for dinner where Emma proudly displayed her love for clam chowder.

Watching the water raise the boats to enter Lake Washington.

Running up and down the side of the locks.

Yelling something dramatic to Emma.

Having a seat, checking out the boats.

Climbing and checking things out. Actually sitting together for a split second. More running.

Pinch

Mmmmm, this girls LOVES clam chowder.

I know, I know….

2010-05-21T19:57:00.001-07:00

I know I haven’t updated all month and it is already the 21st. I have spent a lot of time on the computer, but not playing with pictures or writing about them.

Earlier this month we headed out to a local park to meet with a photographer who is raising money for soulumination. She is taking pictures of kids all around Seattle for a donation to the charity. She is an awesome person and very talented photographer. Our session was interesting as only 50% of the participants were having fun and the other 50% was clinging to my side. After it, we went over to the play area and I let the girls run around for a while. They also had just received their new backpacks, so of course they had to bring them.

Loves throwing sand.

Ready to take off on me.

We have had some amazing weather lately. The girls busted out their swim suits and we spent some time outside playing with the water table.

Notice Madi’s swim suit change. This is what I got when I asked her to look at me smile for the camera.

Monday of this week we met some friends at a place called Flying High Sports. It is an enormous warehouse that has gigantic trampolines all over. The girls spent an hour running and jumping all around. We will be going back soon. They haven’t stopped talking about it.

Tuesday night, this is how Chad found the girls when he checked on them. They pull their pillows and comforters down onto the floor between the beds and snuggle with their toys.

School is coming to an end, and daddy happened to be around today so he joined us for a little while. Emma was over the moon excited. She has asked if her daddy could come to school for months. Today was her lucky day.

M & E’s Special Day

2010-04-27T17:21:00.001-07:00

Today at school we celebrated Madi and Emma’s Special Day. Madi and Emma were born in July and because their birthday falls over the summer, we celebrated it at school today. The girls were very excited about their special day and the crowns they got to wear and bring home. Teacher Christi also shared special information about each one and then we all sang them the “Special Day” song.

With teacher Christi Madi was a little nervous in front of her friends, her finger didn’t come out of her mouth the whole time she was up there.

Prelude to our Summer in New England

2010-04-25T14:20:00.001-07:00

Chad and I had great lobster roles last weekend when we went to Frank’s Oyster House for dinner. They were so good, Chad had the great idea of making our own yesterday. We went and picked up 3 live lobsters, steamed them and made dinner. The girls love looking at lobsters or anything that has to do with lobsters. Emma really had fun watching daddy, tasting the lobster and picking them up. Madi liked to look and watch from her perch a few feet away.

Sucking the meat out of a leg. I won’t even do that.

Leaning in for a kiss.

At first Emma wouldn’t pick them up, she just kept saying “no they’re scary”. Once she finally did pick it up, she didn’t want to put it down.

Using her muscles to crack the claw. She isn’t quite strong enough yet. Maybe this summer she will get more practice.

Madi did get close enough to try and crack the claw too.

The Naked Chef

2010-04-19T22:24:00.001-07:00

This afternoon I was having a hard time keeping the girls entertained and happy. For the last 10 days, Daddy has been with us and today was the first day of going it alone. They woke up from their naps a little cranky and the afternoon began to drag on. I was ready to put them to bed at 6:00, I could have sworn it was already 8:00. I finally resorted to the dreaded playdoh. I tried to convince them to do it outside on the deck, but it was a no go. I just hate the mess of the tiny playdoh crumbs every where. Anyhow, Madi began walking across the kitchen with playdoh on a spoon saying she wanted to go downstairs. There was no way I was going to let her take playdoh down to the basement where it would get smashed in the carpet. So, I had the brilliant idea of bringing their little play kitchen up. I brought just the stove/sink part up and they happily cooked playdoh treats for quite a while. The best part was Madi’s attire. Madi has been known to give us quite a few laughs with the outfits she puts together. This afternoon it was no different. She was running around in her swimsuit top and a bare bum. Then she added the apron and chef’s hat to cook up her creations. Love that little bum.

Birthday Blessings

2010-04-19T22:15:00.001-07:00

This past weekend we celebrated my 33rd birthday. I still can’t believe how fast the years seem to fly by. On Saturday night, the girls went to Autie Katie’s and Uncle Ryan’s for a sleep over. Chad and I went out for a fantastic dinner at Frank’s and enjoyed the best lobster rolls before coming home to a quiet, empty house. Sleeping in my own bed and not having to worry about the girls in the morning was the best birthday gift ever. I slept in until 9:00 then Chad and I went to breakfast before picking up the girls. Later in the afternoon, Katie, Ryan, Kendra, Steve, Nana and Papa came over for a casual cookout. The girls had fun planting flowers with Nana and running around before helping me blow out the candles on my peanut butter pie. It was a wonderful birthday. I am so lucky and fortunate to have such a loving family to spend it with.

So excited. Listening to Nana’s directions.

Playing with Uncle Ryan.

Putting the candles in my Happy Birthday Pie.

Getting ready to blow out all the candles.

Palm Springs

2010-04-19T13:58:00.001-07:00

Last week, the four of us took off for a sunny week in Palm Springs. Thanks to the Karhan family we were set up in a great two bedroom unit with a wonderful pool set up and golf course next door. Chad was able to get up early and get a couple of rounds of golf in. The girls spent many hours in the pools splashing around. Emma especially loved swimming and would wake up and state “ I go swimming”. With the help of her ladybug puddle jumper swim jacket, she swam all by herself and loved every second of it. Daddy teaching Emma to paddle and kick. She couldn’t get enough of swim time. So happy. Madi even allowed me to let go and swam by herself in the big pool. Riding in the zebra striped, jeep wagon at The Living Desert Zoo. Check out the horns on this guy. Staring contest.

Daddy and Emma with the baby giraffe.

Daddy and Madi checking out the camels. Poolside after naps, still wearing their basketball jammies. I couldn’t convince them to take them off and I didn’t want to waist any more time in the room, so I let them wear their jammies to the pool. dipping her toesReady to jump in. Madi swimming with her alligators in the kiddie pool.

The Easter Bunny Visits

2010-04-08T14:53:00.001-07:00

We had a great Easter. Nana, Papa, Auntie Kendra and Steve came over for brunch. The Easter Bunny snuck in and left the girls lots of treats. The sun even managed to shine for a little while, long enough for us to hunt for eggs outside.

Trying on her gardening gloves and apron. Ready to plant some flowers with Nana.

Hunting for eggs.

Checking out the loot.

Madi got cozy with Papa on the couch to share his brunch. I think she ate more than he did.

Spring Time Fun

2010-04-08T14:08:00.001-07:00

Last Wednesday the girls and I headed north with some friends to Mt. Vernon to see the beautiful tulips in bloom. It ended up being a beautiful day, the sun was shining and the flowers were all out. Madi and Emma of course were in perfect 2.5 year old mode. They didn’t want to cooperate for my camera or follow any of my directions. I still managed to snap a couple cute ones. Someday they will learn they need to sit pretty and smile for my camera, right?

The girls were definitely more interested in this frog feature then they were the flowers.

Already kissing frogs. Hopefully one will turn into her prince someday. Let’s just hope it doesn’t happen too soon.

“This way?”

On the run, as always.

Madi enjoyed smelling the flowers. Emma wouldn’t get too close, she kept saying “No, dirty”.

Sister moments

Emma did get close enough to one to give it a kiss good bye.

And the child abuse begins… There was this cool old barrel next to the fields that made a great place for pictures, of course the girls screamed their heads off as I tried to make them sit pretty.

Boys and Bubbles

2010-03-18T21:16:00.001-07:00

This morning after gymnastics we headed over to the Boyer’s for an impromptu play date. The girls were very excited to see Jack and Brody. They were out running errands and we happened to beat them home. When I said they weren’t home yet and drove by the house Emma states, “No mama, see Jack and Brody NOW!” I tried to explain that they weren’t home but the girls wouldn’t have it. I then suggested that we head to the cupcake store and pick up cupcakes, but even that wasn’t good enough. They only wanted to see Jack and Brody. Emma never passes up sweets, so this was quite serious.

Lunch date, I love the girls’ expressions. Listening to the boys intently.

After our play date it was nap time and then BUBBLES.

I picked up a new bubble machine at Costco the other day. The girls have been asking for bubbles but I keep forgetting to buy batteries for the darn thing. Finally today I was able to scrounge up enough batteries to make it work. This bubble machine is going to get a lot of use this spring and summer. Even Papi had to get in on the fun, chasing and biting bubbles.

If you look closely enough you can see the spray from the bubble that popped on her nose.

*please note the evolution of Madi’s outfit, first we have her white onesie tucked into her underwear.

Waiting for the perfect bubble to catch.

Absolute, pure joy!

*Now Madi is sporting her monkey pajama pants

Finally after telling her to put a jacket on every time she said she was cold, she did. And as you can see she chose her thin, unlined, rain jacket.

And when the rain jacket wasn’t warm enough she had to add mittens and a hat. So stylish!

Picking my battles

2010-03-15T15:01:00.001-07:00

So it seems the only way to survive 2.5 year old twins is to pick your battles. Especially when they have such strong opinions like these two girls. We went shopping today and picked up a couple swim suits for our upcoming trip to Palm Desert. The girls had a great time deciding which one they each wanted and I had a the job of trying to find two matching sets in the right sizes. We finally settled on two and headed home. When we arrived home it was nap time. The girls decided they wanted to wear their swim suits for their nap; so I decided this was one battle I didn’t have the energy to fight, and there really is no harm in them wearing their swim suits in bed; right? So off they went up stairs sporting their new suits.

On our way to bed, not the beach.

Climbing in bed

Ten minutes later they were back in their monkey pajammies. Oiy!! Did I mention Chad is out of town until Wednesday night. This is going to be a long three days. I wonder what other battles will arise…stay tuned.

I love this girl

2010-03-13T20:38:00.001-08:00

Today was one of those days that really tested my patience. Daddy went golfing and the girls threw a temper tantrum approximately every 5 minutes after we got home from the park. They were in their room for almost three hours but refused to nap. Then right before daddy got home Madi reminded me of why being their mom is the best thing ever. My goodness this girl cracks me up. I heard her playing around with the coats and shoes but didn’t expect her to walk around the corner looking like this…

Fun with my new toy

2010-03-13T16:11:00.001-08:00

While I was at WPPI with Papa, I picked up a new Canon 7D. I am so excited to learn to use it. I have a lot to learn but so far I love it. I took the girls to the park this morning so I could play with it. I found that it is hard to focus on camera settings when the girls are demanding to be pushed on the swings. I only was able to get a couple shots but it was a great way to spend the sunny morning.

While Momma’s away the girls will play

2010-03-12T22:24:00.001-08:00

Or should I say “While momma’s away, Nana will lose control”.

Sunday morning I boarded a plane to Las Vegas to help Papa work the WPPI trade show. Chad, Grammy, and Grampy took the girls to Nana’s so she could watch them while daddy was working during the week. The girls do so well with Nana. The are so comfortable there and have already learned that when you are at Nana’s you can eat as many peanut butter and crackers as you want. Papa is a peanut butter and Ritz cracker snacker so when the girls are there they get to enjoy the delicious snack as well. On Tuesday morning, Nana called me and said, “I have lost control!” Then went on to ask if it is okay for two year olds to live on peanut butter and crackers and yogurt. Apparently they only wanted peanut butter and crackers and yogurt for breakfast, lunch and dinner. I also got to talk to the girls for the first time on the phone. They talk to daddy on the phone all the time but since I am always with them or only away for a couple of hours they have never spoken to me on the phone. It was a little weird. You could hear Madi’s voice get sad when she was talking to me which of course made me cry. Then Emma got on with the happiest voice and said, “Hi Momma!!! Momma working with Papa and Auntie Kengra!?” She was very happy and secure with the situation which made me feel so blessed.

Dear Nana,

Thank you Nana for taking such great care of them. You are a trooper. The girls are wild and crazy every waking hour of the day. It is exhausting to keep up with them. I have a hard time taking care of them when Chad is out of town and they are my own kids, I can only imagine how tired you must have been at the end of each day, being there alone with them. I do wish I could have been a fly on the wall as you got them in and out of the backseat of the honda, or took them through the grocery store. It is a circus and I am sure you did it all with grace. We are so very blessed to have you as our Nana.

Now on to the few pics Nana was able to take… Climbing in the doll house, at bedtime of course.

Standing on the piano keys.

Just a little taste of the circus that is Madeline and Emma.

Grammy and Grampy

2010-03-12T21:27:00.001-08:00

Last Wednesday, Grammy and Grampy Borden came for a visit. The weather was beautiful and we were able to enjoy the NW. On Thursday, they came to gymnastics with us and watched the girls run around. Friday we were able to enjoy the zoo with daddy too. All the animals were out and ready to give us a show. We haven’t seen the giraffes out in the fields for a while. On Saturday, daddy took everyone to lunch and to Gas Works to run around. I was home sick and trying to pack for my trip to Las Vegas and the girls for their trip to Nana’s. The time with Grammy and Grampy went too fast. The girls warmed up to them right away and Madi began bossing them around. She took Grammy downstairs to sit in the yellow chair and play tea party. At the zoo, she was the ring master. Telling us all to run from animal to animal.

Emma the climber, trying to climb the tree.

Madi turning around to tell us all to hurry.

I am waiting to get pictures from Grammy. I was really bad at taking pictures.

ABC’s, Gymnastics, Water, Baby Dolls & Football, and Fun at the Zoo

2010-02-28T12:55:00.001-08:00

The girls have been working on their ABC’s. I love in this video that Emma picks up right where Madi pauses and them it goes back to Madi to finish it off. They are also showing off their big girl panties, Madi’s have Elmo and ABC on it. She is now only in diapers at nap and bedtime, so proud.

Gymnastics

The girls have been taking a gymnastics class since December. The other day Chad decided to come with us before heading off to a meeting. The girls loved showing daddy what gymnastics was all about. Madi even went on the big trampoline for the first time. She is my cautious one.

Emma is a little more adventurous at gymnastics.

Daddy helping Madi on the bars.

Emma loves to hang on the bars and try to touch her toes to her hands.

Water Anyone?

The girls use their stools and chairs to reach almost everything these days. Saturday night daddy and I were relaxing on the couch when I turned around and noticed the girls helping themselves to some water. The best part is that Madi can’t open the fridge or freezer by herself, so when she wants it open she calls for Emma and says, “Emma muscles”.

Baby doll and football

I love this picture of Emma, she is snuggling with her baby doll and football wearing her basketball pajammies. Just a few of her favorite things. The jammies are my favorite because when I took the girls to Costco to pick out new jammies neither of them wanted the pink girlie ones with butterflies and flowers. Instead Emma insisted on the orange and brown monkey basketball ones and Madi ended up with green monkey ones. Emma asks us to turn on basketball instead of cartoons. She will actually sit and watch the games. I don’t think she will ever be tall enough to actually play as the height predictor predicts she will only be 5’1” based on her two year stats.

Fun at the zoo

Daddy has been sick all weekend, so Saturday morning I took the girls to the zoo to get out of the house and give him some peace and quiet. It wasn’t that nice but the zoo was packed. I am used to going on the week days when it is empty. We still had fun though. The hippos are either sleeping or in the water when we visit them, today one was actually walking around enjoying a snack.

The girls pulling their own stuff around, as I followed empty handed. I could get used to this.

The bear was in great view also enjoying a snack.

As we went by the sloth bear exhibit we noticed quite a crowd, so we stopped to take a look as well. It turns out they were introducing their male and female. Turns out sloth bears make a really interesting sound.

The girls also had fun playing on the gorilla statues. They were trying to use their muscles to move the little one and giving high fives to the big one. Daddy taught them how to grunt when they use their muscles.

Santa needs a bath

2010-02-19T09:52:00.001-08:00

The girls say some of the funniest things and I need to be better about writing them down so I remember them. This morning we were in the car and Madi spotted a homeless man with a long white beard.

Madi: “Santa, Santa walking” See the man walking down the sidewalk

Mommy: “No that isn’t Santa, that is a dirty old man”

Emma: “ Mamma wash it”

Mommy: “ you want mommy to wash the old man cause he’s dirty?”

Emma: “yeah”.