Times 2 Treasure

Love This!

2012-02-13T09:48:00.003-06:00

Amy pinned this on pinterest, and I absolutely love it! I've printed mine out & will have them finished by tomorrow. Then I plan to put them in the boys' memory folders. This is so much better than something store bought, don't you agree?

Source: livinglocurto.com via Amy on Pinterest

100 days!

2012-02-11T19:31:00.005-06:00

100 days of school have come & gone this week. Simply unbelieveable. He is loving school so much. His grades are great. And he'll tell you he's only had 1 bad day at school so far (he was caught talking during nap time to his little friend Presley). It makes me laugh. I have to study in order to help him with his homework....not for the math, reading, or writing assignments but the key concepts questions (form, function, cuasation, reflection, & responsibility) and learner profiler questions. It's good though...I'm learning with him! Congrats to our big boy...100 days smarter. I can tell a difference.

We read a lot in our house...I love reading to both boys - together & separately. The picture above shows some of his current favorite books. Several came from sweet aunties...thank you!! I'll be doing a post soon on Trevin's favorite books. Stay tuned. :)

Craft Fun

2012-02-08T10:55:00.003-06:00

I hardly have time to do things like this, but these projects were pretty easy & could be stopped & started again without much hassle. Yay....done!

Pilot Jax

2012-02-06T11:03:00.005-06:00

The highly anticipated 3rd birthday party for little friend Jax was this past weekend. We all had a grand time & the decorations were simply amazing. Becca did such a great job. The boys still talk about all the fun they had at the birthday "pautee" (Trevin's word). Trevin didn't protest too loudly when I got to hold little sister. Ahhh...what a sweet, beautiful little girl. Loved getting to snuggle a bit with her. To see even more pictures of this great birthday party...click here.

a great find

2012-02-03T08:51:00.003-06:00

Source: etsy.com via Shauna on Pinterest

I've found that lots of people like this skirt on pinterest. I do too...however I do not sew - no time or energy for that at this point. To my surprise I found a very cute navy blue long ruffle skirt (not denim) at Marshalls last week for a decent price. Brand - Max Studio. It found it's way to my closet....yay! If you have a Marshalls close by you'll have to check out this skirt.

a favorite lunch

2012-02-03T08:39:00.002-06:00

This is my favorite lunch this week - quinoa with fresh fruit mango salsa. Very tasty & healthy too. I'm enjoying quinoa for breakfast (heated with a few nuts & berries) as an alternative to oatmeal. The boys really like oatmeal for breakfast, but I need variety! So this is a great option.

fun family pictures

2012-01-22T11:39:00.003-06:00

I'm so glad we took the time to get these done. I keep reminding myself that our boys will never be this little again. These pictures make me smile..

“Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.”
~Laozi

adding some green

2012-01-21T21:13:00.004-06:00

Here is a picture of those wonderfully delicious blueberry muffins I made last week. Oh so good. I'm also finding ways to add more GREEN to my diet.

Source: getmestronger.tumblr.com via Joysie on Pinterest

My own version this week...

1/2 c. almond milk/2% milk
2 heaping c. of fresh spinach (or fill your blender to the top)
a few frozen banana slices
1/2 c. greek yogurt
1-2 tbsp almond butter

Healthy and delicious! Thanks, pinterest!

a wonderful daddy...

2012-01-21T21:04:00.002-06:00

Daddy...
can make the best paper airplanes
can always fix the LEGO creation problem
turns crying into laughing faster than anyone I know
can make homework fun
plays a fun hand of skip-bo junior

We love him!

be happy!

2012-01-12T20:29:00.003-06:00

As I looked at my 'to do' list again, I realized #7 is going to be an ongoing project. But I think the article I'm linking below will help me a lot. Feel free to read!

12 Things Happy People Do Differently

2012...off to a good start!

2012-01-12T18:17:00.009-06:00

Well, here we are - well into our first month of 2012. So far things are going great in our household. The boys are happy & healthy. We've had no more accidents since our minor emergency which found us scurrying off to ER with Trevin. I've decided to make a list of things I want to accomplish this year. Here's part of my 'to do' list for 2012. I like the satisfaction of crossing things off a list, so here goes...

1. Get rid of clutter - this is already well in progress
2. Work at least 5x a month (really??) - this actually makes me a better mother; I'm always so happy to get home to see my kids & spend quality time with them. It is a good breather for me, very mentally stimulating, & I love being able to contribute a little chunk to the piggy bank.
3. Learn to cut my boys' hair - can it really be that hard? My Dad reminded me tonight - it'll always grow back...so why not?
4. Quit scrapbooking - I'm completely in love with making memory books thru Picaboo. It saves so much time, money & effort. I have so many other things I want to spend time doing. With that said, I want to keep card making/stamping - it is fun & less involved.
5. Learn a new game. Suggestions?
6. Read this book.
7. Love more, express gratitude & worry less.

Benjamin's goal for 2012:
" Be more caring to others." - I love it! He came up with himself

Trevin's goal for 2012:
Sleep all night long! - We helped him with this one. :)
Hope you are having a good year so far!

Multigrain Blueberry Muffins

2012-01-12T10:24:00.002-06:00

Great Recipe passed along by my sister - Thanks, Amy.

1 1/4 C whole wheat flour, spooned & leveled
1 C old fashion rolled oats
1/4 C flaxseed meal
1/4 C pecans (I didn't use nuts in mine)
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp kosher salt (I used TJs sea salt)
1 C plain non fat yogurt
1/2 C packed light brown sugar
3 Tsp unsalted melted butter
1 T grated orange zest, plus 1/4 C orange juice
1 lg egg
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
2 C fresh blueberries or one 8-oz bag frozen blueberries.

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Line 12 cup muffin pan with paper liners. In a food processor, process flour, oats, flaxseed meal, pecans, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until finely ground.In a large mixing bowl, whisk together yogurt, sugar, butter, orange zest & juice, egg, and vanilla. Add the flour mixture & mix until incorporated. Fold in blueberries.Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups.
Bake until tooth pick inserted in the center comes out clean, 22-25 mins.

Muffins will keep at room temp for 3 days, and in freezer for 1 month - warm in mircowave 1-2 mins

something to ponder...

2012-01-06T20:31:00.001-06:00

"I can choose to let it define me, confine me, refine me, outshine me;
Or I can choose to move on and leave it behind me."

Recipe

2012-01-05T20:22:00.001-06:00

Here is the link to the great slow cooker pork recipe. We've enjoyed the leftovers too!

http://quick-dish.tablespoon.com/2011/05/18/3-ingredient-slow-cooker-pulled-pork/

Hello 2012!

2012-01-01T21:17:00.003-06:00

Happy New Year!

I turn my mind from days gone by to that which lies before,
A sea of possibilities and I upon the shore;
There seems much that would invite;
So much that would dismay,
But courage rises with the thought -
that God will plan the way.
[author unknown]

I found this in one of Jean's notebooks....love the inspiration & encouragement from those books. It makes her feel so close again.

a wonderful day...

2011-12-30T10:06:00.006-06:00

It was super fun to all stay home today...I've worked most days that Russell has been home recently. Since it was so beautiful this morning, we headed to the bike trails. Benjamin biked while we ran/walked with Trevin in the jogging stroller. Benjamin learned that biking/keeping your balance while manuevering around people, curves, etc is a bit more challenging. 2 spills, but no blood lost! We did fine!! Except...I found it challenging to keep up with him biking while I ran. He has speed...now that his training wheels are off. So, I have my work cut out for me. :)

Supper - BBQ shredding pork sandwiches were so good tonight...this was so incredibly simple & loved by everyone at our table. I am seriously addicted to pinterest. I don't spend too much time on it, but I love the recipes & ideas I found. My friends all have such great taste! So fun.

After supper it was wonderful to have a bit of quiet conversation with my hubby while we had tea & dessert from The Steeping Room...we split a double chocolate cupcake...oh so good.

Source: quick-dish.tablespoon.com via Andrea on Pinterest

I feel like the weekend has already started!

entertaining boys

2011-12-29T21:38:00.004-06:00

It really doesn't take too much to entertain our boys....give some fresh air, outdoor space, a few things with wheels - and they are set! Hence,...paradise for Trevin & Benjamin at Jesse's house. We had wonderful weather while we were there...70s & rain. The rain didn't keep the boys from playing outside. It didn't even keep Benjamin from learning how to ride without training wheels. I went shopping with Polly in the afternon and upon returning I witnessed Benjamin zipping down their long driveway on a bike WITHOUT training wheels. I was utterly shocked. Way to go, Jesse, for being such an inspiration. Lesson learned...all it takes sometimes is a little push from a friend.

The long driveway...perfect for riding
Best of friends....

dear friends

2011-12-29T13:43:00.003-06:00

During the last 2 weeks we've enjoyed seeing friends we don't see often enough. As always the time with them goes by too quickly & the kids were especially sad to leave. But as Papa says...."if you don't leave, you can't come back!" So true..

Thank You, Groupon!

2011-12-27T21:34:00.002-06:00

Just finished putting together our book for 2011...used a groupon purchased for Picaboo and saved a lot of $$. What a great feeling to have this checked off my list. The countdown til 2012 begins....how is that possible??

We're Learning...

2011-12-17T13:01:00.003-06:00

My children amaze me! They are learning so much these days. Here is a list of a few random things...

1. Benjamin wandering around the house singing La Bamba in Spanish.
2. Trevin singing out with us at the table...he's learning the graces so well!
3. Benjamin's fascination with paper airplanes & learning to make them. He has decided that the expert paper airplane makers are Daddy & Papa!
4. Evidently the boys play 'hide & seek' a lot around here (and at Papa & Nana's house)...Trevin surprised us this week by counting to 10 by himself!
5. Benjamin has been helping Trevin play trains & work on the train tracks. Benjamin puts it together & Trevin takes is apart. Ah yes, the noises in our home aren't always happy ones.
6. Benjamin enjoys counting by 2s, 5s, & 10s. I can't believe the school year is now half over! I'm glad he really enjoys school.

I'm wondering how much I've learned this past year! I know I'm still working on being more patient. I seem to use my patience up way too quickly. It's good to remember we're all a work in progress...

Quote for December

2011-12-17T12:54:00.002-06:00

As 2011 comes to a close, my heart is full of gratitude for so many things. This is a special quote I want to keep with me thru the next year. I don't just want to be thankful, but live a thankful life.

Source: hankandhunt.com via Andrea on Pinterest

hello flat colter!

2011-12-12T08:46:00.003-06:00

Flat Colter made a surprise visit this weekend. We enjoyed doing many things with him especially driving him around town & showing him the sights. This was his first time to sit on a Texas Longhorn! He has to leave soon....but he can't decide where to go next. Thanks for the visit!

word wall

2011-12-10T21:07:00.004-06:00

I'm loving a relaxing weekend at home...no working (physical therapy stuff, that is) and feeling good finally! I took one of Benjamin's homework assignments to "heart" and finished something I've wanted to do forever. Thank you, Mrs. S, for making me get this done! Sometimes it takes a deadline. Here is our WORD WALL! A place for Benjamin for to write words, draw pictures, & display his work. I love it. Thankfully, my Uppercase Living scraps came in handy and made this project very inexpensive.

Hope you're having a great weekend!
Next up: a special cousin visitor arrived this weekend...any guesses? :)

Thanksgiving Week 2011

2011-12-03T20:50:00.005-06:00

Thanksgiving week rushed by with a flurry of activities - lots of playtime with the cousins, shopping with the sister, eating with the family, visiting, & enjoying our fabulous fall weather. Afterwards, I crashed...quite literally...getting strep throat and banishing myself to bed for several days. Wow. I don't remember being that sick in a long time. I'm glad to be much better and even MORE glad that no one else seemed to have gotten it. It was not fun.

Hello cute Jace & Malia!
Amongst all the activities, Benjamin performed in his fall concert. He did so well and it was fun to have cousin Damion in the audience.
Happy Boys! These old Fisher Price sets are priceless!
Puzzle time with Drake.

Grandma Burnette & the whole clan of great grandkids...so, so fun. This was a very special time with family. Loved getting to all be together.

Happy Turkey Day! We had a small gathering, but it was so special to have time Grandma. Usually she can't/doesn't enter into the conversation much - but this time we got her talking & it was wonderful!
My dear friend Jordan stopped by for a quick visit. Our kids had a blast!

To see more, click here

Hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving! We feel blessed beyond measure.

a big task

2011-12-01T09:53:00.003-06:00

Now that Thanksgiving is over, we are getting back into our somewhat normal routine, and I'm feeling 75% better (from a horrific case of strep throat)...this is my task at hand:

Source: typeverything.com via Gina on Pinterest

I love receiving personal notes from several of my great aunts, from workers & friends. There is something so special about it. Instead of a generic letter this year (I figure quite a few read our blog & don't kneed a recap), I'm attempting to write a few personal lines as we send family pictures out. My hand may be cramping & crying at the end of the day....but this is my goal!

Thanksgiving quote #2

2011-11-22T21:01:00.000-06:00

Source: remodelaholic.com via Madaline on Pinterest

favorite thanksgiving quote #1

2011-11-18T10:37:00.002-06:00

Source: moneysavingmom.com via Emily on Pinterest

Fall is flying by...

2011-11-18T10:20:00.002-06:00

Art project from school: "Draw a picture that depicts the learner profile of caring"
Benjamin: I drew of picture of Damion & me playing close to each other & sharing toys.

Art work from spanish class: manzanas (apples!)
Nothing quite describes an evening spent with Westin. We were so sad tell him goodbye. He's off to his new field now. We are grateful for those who give themselves beyond measure.
I have one week to:
-make 5 pies (2 go to Benjamin's school)
-make homemade sugar scrubs for Benjamin's teachers
-send a care package to Ireland
-enjoy "sister" time....it doesn't happen often enough!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Homework Time...

2011-11-05T18:37:00.005-05:00

I love Benjamin's homework assignments....we pick 5 off the list & do them each week. They are meaningful, purposeful & fun!

Here is a sample of his October Kindergarten homework...

20. Challenge your child to save part of her allowance or to collect unwanted games, toys, and clothes. Visit a local shelter, church, or donation site
together to make her contribution.
21. Help Out at a Local Animal Shelter.Your local shelter probably needs help walking dogs, cleaning cages, or even just playing with animals that are
cooped up all day.
22. Clean Up Your Community Park or Playground.Choose your date and location, and then contact your local Parks and Recreation Department to
find out any guidelines or permit requirements. Be sure to arrive early on the day and snap plenty of shots to commemorate your efforts.
23.Read a favorite fairy tale, then illustrate it together.
24. Find the best jokes (in book collections and online), then compile them into an illustrated book. For an extra challenge, come up with some jokes of
your own.

Six!

2011-10-27T20:18:00.004-05:00

I'm a bit behind on this post, but I want to post about Benjamin. 6 is the ultimate age for him. His usual introduction goes like this..."Hi, I'm Benjamin & I'm six!" He's in the 95th percentile for height. He loves EVERYTHING...books, soccer, tractors, racecars, helping in the kitchen, anything that involves being outside, etc. He is the first person to rush over & check on someone if they are hurt & has a tender heart. He is such a great big brother & is patient to wait his turn. Benjamin's teacher said he is a good student & is one of her "helpers". So...life is good for our big 6 year old. He can't wait to dress up as a pirate on Saturday for the Austin Suzuki Strings Concert.

Fountain Fun

2011-10-27T12:46:00.003-05:00

Since having kids we look for lots of ways to have fun. Sarah, our great photographer, helped us out with this one. Story behind these pictures: We had family pictures taken this fall. It was 106 degrees at 8pm that evening. We were/are in the middle of a drought, but still found some water for splashing & beautiful scenery for our pictures. Sarah rewarded our kids for doing so well for the pictures by letting them play in the fountain on site. Oh my, they had fun! I love these pictures.

Grandpa Clarence

2011-10-15T11:07:00.001-05:00

We'll miss this dear man. The boys & I enjoyed writing him letters & sending pictures. He didn't write much, but that was okay....we just wanted him to know we loved him even though we lived so far away.

Our time with him this summer was so special. He gave us a tour of where he lived and then we went to his room for a wonderful visit. Though he was frail, his mind was sharp...he told us about his cowboy spurs (that were sitting on display in his room), memories of old pictures, & his times in TX. He told me he remembered when he first met me; I remember the exact time too...I wasn't with Russell & it wasn't in Montana...so that fact that he remembered, really surprised me.

I'm so thankful we had the privilege of naming our first son after his special family. He was a little piece of Russell's mother who we miss so much. He loved the children (good thing! he had over 40 great grandchildren). He spoke softly & had such a tender smile. We'll miss him, but so glad he finished the race.

Great Grandpa with chunky monkey Benjamin - Thanksgiving '05

It's beginning to look like...

2011-10-07T10:56:00.005-05:00

convention time! I had a great time one afternoon playing & helping the boys as they requested to have convention at our house. I'm making a greater effort to stop in the midst of my day and have time with the boys. Love it!

I love this smile!

No, he's not crying...he's praying.

Watching so closely

Looking foward to going to the real thing very soon!

a peek at the past...

2011-10-07T10:47:00.003-05:00

I don't take the time to scan in pictures very often, but I HAD to do these. They come from Russell's baby scrapbook that I put together for him. This is proof!!! Our little man looks just like Russell. I think these are the most adorable pictures...such seriousness & so like Trevin.

Trevin at 2 years

2011-10-07T08:42:00.001-05:00

Things about Trevin at 2 years:

-asks for 'lunch' multiple times a day (ie when waking at 6:45ish, when getting ready for bed)

-is always looking for the moon when outside

-loves trucks & ambulances/fire trucks

-waits patiently with me while in line to pick up Benjamin from school

-loves to color...will color on his hands & arms as much as the paper

-even the littlest 'owwie' should not be taken lightly

-sleeps great...unless he is sick - then forget about sleeping, Mommy

-wants to go to school just like Benjamin...dragging his little backpack around the house

-when requesting something, he'll answer for you (ie "Mommy, up please....'kay")

-Not sure if I've heard him say 'yes' much...it comes out as 'huh' with a quick nod

-He's doing really well sitting still in meeting...we're learning that less is better

-He plays by himself so well...in fact, I can be gone (ie work) for a few hours while Russell works from home some mornings/handles conference calls with Trevin playing.

-Loves to set up meeting with his lego people or animals [see photo]

-Doesn't sing the graces at the table...but covers his eyes & waits to eat until we're finished singing

-Requests his little bible in meetings

-weight in the 50-75th percentile, height in the 90th percentile

pumpkin time

2011-09-28T14:54:00.002-05:00

Yes, it's fall! Well, it's supposed to be. We are ready for cooler weather. Thanks, Amy, for sharing this recipe with me last year. I found it again in my recipe box...can't wait to make it for potluck Sunday!

Grandma's Yummy Pumpkin Pie Cake
topping: 1 box white or yellow cake mix, 1 cube butter (melted)
cake:
1 can (29 oz) canned 100% pure pumpkin
4 eggs, beaten
1 c sugar
1 1/2 cups brown sugar
1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
1 t salt
2 t cinnamon
1 t ginger
1/2 t ground cloves
1/4 t nutmeg
directions:
Preheat oven to 350. Mix butter and cake mix together until crumbly - set aside. Beat eggs and mix all 10 ingredients in a bowl with a hand mixer. Pour into a greased 9x13 pan. Sprinkle cake with topping. Bake at 350 for 45-55 minutes (sometimes longer) or until knife comes out clean.

Benjamin is 6!!!

2011-09-27T19:20:00.005-05:00

A week before Benjamin's birthday, Benjamin requested that he have "chocolate donuts with lots of sprinkles" as his birthday cake. Well...I couldn't refuse such a request. It certainly made my life easier in planning his birthday celebration(s). Nana & Papa furnished the "exactly perfect" ones when we had lunch with cousins & great Grandma Burnette. FUN. We also got him a gigantic chocolate donut from our favorite donut shop. Finger licking good...he was pleased!

4 sweet cousins...a happy bunch

Special donuts from Nana & Papa - thank you!

Surprise....it's a Huge donut (oh, and I loved the price...$5.99 - compare that with a store bought cake)

What you can't see is that Trevin desperately wanted to help with the candles.

a remote control truck & lots of legos...doesn't get much better for a 6 year old boy.

What a wonderful big boy we have! He is already looking forward to turning 7.

Parent-Teacher Conference

2011-09-27T09:34:00.002-05:00

We are all adjusting to Benjamin being in school....Trevin learning to practice patience as we drive to/from school each day. He loves doing BrainQuest cards with me as we wait to pick Benjamin up in the afternoons. They are fun & better than reading books in the car.

I'll attend my first parent-teacher conference in a few weeks to discuss assessements that Benjamin's teacher has completed on him in the classroom. I'm excited to hear how Benjamin is doing & how I can help him at home. But since it is all so new to me, I was excited to discover this worksheet that will help me know what questions to ask & what information to glean from the meeting. Maybe you'd find it helpful as well.

a busy september!

2011-09-26T17:50:00.003-05:00

Birthdays, parties, school, workdays, violin lessons, work....wow, we've been busy! Here's a quick peek of some of the highlights.

Benjamin's recycling project...

Happy Birthday to me!

Trevin celebrating at Marie's bday

Happy Birthday Marie!

Benjamin's 6th birthday up next

End of Summer Highlight

2011-09-20T08:44:00.003-05:00

One of the fun things we did with Nana & Papa before school started was a little train trip from Round Rock to downtown Austin. They've recently added this line, so it was a fun first experience. Once we got to downtown, we walked a few blooks to a wonderful crepe shop & had a mid-day snack. It was wonderful! Thanks Mom & Dad for the little trip.

thought for the day

2011-09-09T08:11:00.001-05:00

Two already?

2011-09-07T07:23:00.004-05:00

Happy Birthday to our little man! It feels good that we already celebrated with him since today is a school day for Benjamin, early release, violin lesson, & mtg tonight. Here are a few more pictures from his little celebration. So, today, we'll slow down and enjoy our time with a little boy who's growing way too fast!

For comparison...here's Benjamin when he turned 2!

Labor Day!

2011-09-05T07:53:00.004-05:00

2 years ago on Labor Day was one of the happiest days of our life...giving Benjamin a little brother. Our lives changed forever. We love our little boy so much and it is amazing to watch him change & grow every day.

We had a small birthday celebration yesterday. It was just right. Russell & I had so much fun decorating the cake together...nothing fancy or extravagent, but perfect for Trevin. He was delighted to have a train cake. Choo choo, let the fun begin...

Top Five

2011-09-05T07:49:00.002-05:00

Top 5 for Benjamin at school is...

1. Eating in the cafeteria
2. Going to Spanish class & learning some new words
3. Meeting some "really nice boys"
4. PE! I played freeze tag
5. Meeting my new teacher

You can teach a student a lesson for a day; but if you can teach him to learn by creating curiosity, he will continue the learning process as long as he lives.Clay P. Bedford

Little Brother

2011-09-01T19:15:00.002-05:00

Trevin didn't see Benjamin wearing his backpack on the first day of school. He didn't even go to school with us....however, he sure knew what was going on. After I returned home from school, this is what Trevin requested....that he wear his little backpack! It was so cute.

Letting Go...

2011-08-31T18:32:00.003-05:00

Letting go...
Easier said than done.
He smiled, so I smiled too (but inside it was different).
He was ready, so I prepared myself too.
It was emptier at our house that day, but I cherished the evening together.

Thank you for your calls, emails, & texts...it was just what I needed.

Free School Printable

2011-08-31T10:06:00.002-05:00

I love these snack labels and they will help keep our snack supply organized as I make daily lunches/snacks for Benjamin. Check it out & print them for your kiddos!

All I Really Need to Know...

2011-08-30T10:03:00.003-05:00

All I Really Need To Know I Learned In Kindergarten

by Robert Fulghum

Most of what I really need
To know about how to live
And what to do and how to be
I learned in kindergarten.

These are the things I learned:

Share everything.
Play fair.
Don't hit people.
Put things back where you found them.
Clean up your own mess.
Don't take things that aren't yours.
Say you're sorry when you hurt somebody.
Wash your hands before you eat.
Flush.
Warm cookies and cold milk are good for you.
Live a balanced life -
Learn some and think some
And draw and paint and sing and dance
And play and work everyday some.
Take a nap every afternoon.
When you go out into the world,
Watch out for traffic,
Hold hands and stick together.
Be aware of wonder.

I keep thinking about our sweet boy who has just begun a new chapter in his life.
Can't wait to hear all about it when I pick him up this afternoon.

the night before kindergarten...

2011-08-29T20:55:00.003-05:00

We loved reading this book together tonight....thanks Polly for the great gift! Benjamin already knows what to expect in a small measure since going to Montessori school last year, but this will be more structured & probably less play time. He'll meet new friends & learn a new school. I'm excited & nervous for him all at the same time. Russell and I were just talking this weekend about how much he has grown this summer. Not just physically, but emotionally & mentally. He has matured & I know he'll handle things very well tomorrow. [The big question is...how am I going to do??]

endings & beginnings....

2011-08-29T20:44:00.002-05:00

Our last weekend of summer break....started off with a tour of Benjamin's new school, dropping off school supplies & meeting his new teacher. The building has been under construction all summer long, so we were thrilled to finally get to see the finished product. Nice! Then we had a getaway in San Antonio....swimming & relaxing & nursing colds. I hadn't planned on the last part, but anyway we made the most of the mini vacation.

looking inside Benjamin's classroom

meeting his kindergarten teacher...21 in his class...a total of 5 kindergarten classes in his school.

Enjoying the waterslides with Daddy. Benjamin actually went down this waterslide solo at least 3 times, but Russell was always at the bottom waiting to assist him as he literally flew out...so I couldn't get a good picture. Anyway, he had a blast!

You can see the outdoor slide behind them....the starting point was 2/3rds the way up the windmill. The trees hide most of the slide.

End of summer activities

2011-08-26T08:01:00.005-05:00

Benjamin attended a LEGO robotics camp for a week this month. They did use computers to make their creations move....ie the mouth of the crocodile went up & down. He loved it & thought it was pretty neat to do something a bit similar to what cousin Evan did this summer.
Swimming & looking for treasures....great family time.
The Circus! Trevin wasn't quite sure what to think with all the loud noise, however he was fine sitting in our laps & loved the elephants best. Benjamin enjoyed it all....especially the motorcycles racing in the sphere.

Trevin's first visit to the dentist...he actually let the assistant clean his teeth with their electric brush. I can't believe he sat so still & cooperated.
Heading out of town this weekend to relax, see friends & swim before school begins Tuesday!

Happy Weekend to everyone!

It's time!

2011-08-23T20:06:00.004-05:00

I'm officially using my facebook account...can you believe it, Lori? I've found it a great way to communicate & find updates & news about Benjamin's new school....so there you go! However, I want to be careful so it doesn't take away my time from my family, my blog & more important things. I'm realzing more and more that each day is a gift & it is up to me to use it wisely.

Invite me to be your friend...if you wish!

Summer 2011

2011-08-23T08:09:00.002-05:00

Things I want to remember about this summer....
-sweet, sweet time with cousins & family
-blissful relaxing in the pool with Nana & Papa
-friends who came to visit us...so good for our boys as well as for me
-watching Benjamin gently coax Grandma B's dog (we claim him too!) to eat & drink....I don't know if it worked though. Our hearts are so sad.
-sweet, juicy mangoes...that our boys love just as much as we do!
-treasure hunts for Jesse & Benjamin courtesey of Russell
-snowcones & homemade popsicles
-Trevin finally learning to say 'Thank You'....he's been saying 'please' for several months now
-weekly visits to see Grandma B & to meet up with cousins Makenna & Colten
-school supply scramble
-getting reaquainted with my bike...loved those [morning] bike rides with my hubby on our trails
-scoring $5.99 polo shirts at Gymboree during Tax Free Weekend....what a great deal!
-evening games with Benjamin - Scrabble Junior & SkipBo Junior were 2 of his favorites
-quiet days at home

Jarin & Justin come to visit!

Hugs for baby Nelson

Hard Hat Playtime

Play & snacks with the Cortez's
Sweet Blue Eyed Colton

Hugs for a cousin

thought of the day

2011-08-22T11:24:00.002-05:00

"Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

23 months

2011-08-16T21:33:00.004-05:00

In less than a month we'll have a 2 year old in our household! What??
Random things I want to remember about Trevin at this age...

Cannot say Benjamin, so calls him "Bubu" instead
Loves to talk on his play phone to Nana, Papa, Grandpa Lairlee
The words I hear most during playtime are, "Ready, Go, Fast!"
Would rather ink his arms with markers instead of the paper
Wants to tell stories just like Benjamin....but in his own language
Is able to unlock & open all doors in our house. But he knows not to go outside without us.
Sleeps great at nights (thankfully we are done with teething for now)
Walks down the stairs now, but reverts to belly sliding if he feels a sense of urgency about the situation
Will climb out of his high chair & the grocery cart when we are not looking
Plays by himself pretty well
Favorite toys - either race cars or JD tractors.
Just discovered Bob the Builder this week.
When Russell comes home from work, he yells to him "Dada, Dada" & expects to be acknowledged/greeted....even if Russell is on the phone.
Loves to rock & cuddle before bedtime/naptime. But he must have his bunny.
Climbs on anything, gets into everything (ie sneaks into our shower, taking off the drain and proceeds to stuff my razor and a small B&BW lotion bottle down the drain....ugh!!!!)
Calls every meal "lunch" and usually asks for lunch as soon as he wakes up. He is a very good eater! His favorite food is cheese.
Wears 3T clothes & does NOT like footed pjs.
Loves bathtime & would play in there for hours if I'd let him.
He'll go around & shake hands after mtg.
Loves car keys. Mr. Curtis is a favorite because after mtg, he'll always give Trevin their car keys. Trevin tries (in all positions standing, sitting, lying down)to get the keys into his pants pocket...just like Mr. Curtis.

Celebration...

2011-08-16T21:14:00.005-05:00

Woohoo...we're ready to celebrate around here..

-Potty training is going great
-This week I finished my 30 hours of CEUs to renew my PT license....that's a big hurdle for me every 2 years
-We got some rain this week...okay maybe it only lasted 10 minutes, but it was more than wonderful.
-School supplies have been purchased. I almost waited until 'Tax free' weekend, but was advised that the sales are *on* now and most store are *out* of the supplies by that weekend. Ummm...that helped me put it into high gear. We got lucky and were able to find all our items.
-Benjamin's school is nearly finished. We get to take a tour & meet the teachers in 10 days!
-Nana is coming home soon. Wow...she has been gone for only 8 days but it feels like 18! The boys have really missed her (oh, I have too)
-Photo shoot this weekend for our family. I decided to take the easy way out and not try to get cute shots of our boys myself. Trevin doesn't stay still for more than 30 nanoseconds. I can't even think that fast.
-I ordered my new "organizer/daily planner for this coming year"...from Erin Condren. Have you heard of her products? I had a great coupon code...so it was a good deal for me. Can't wait to try it out.

Enjoy the week!

our hangout spot

2011-08-11T15:48:00.003-05:00

Tasty Tuesday!

2011-08-09T13:05:00.001-05:00

Pure Sunshine Ice Pops

from Ice Pop Joy

2 cups chopped strawberries
4-5 tablespoons Meyer lemon juice
1/2 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
4 tablespoons honey
1 cup purified water
1 cup ice

To make your Pure Sunshine ice pops:
Put all your ingredients into a blender.
Blend until smooth.
Pour mixture into reusable popsicle molds.
Freeze.
Eat and enjoy.

We loved thsese!

So far...

2011-08-09T12:59:00.004-05:00

Wow....this takes a lot of patience & diligent effort. We're giving it our best shot this week. I'm glad to have lots of encouragement & help from older brother in our latest endeavor. Keeping our fingers crossed that it works!

lots of boys!

2011-08-08T13:55:00.004-05:00

These aren't the best pictures, but we've enjoyed summer days with friends.
Jett & Benjamin's new notebooks they made together...

Landon, Ethan & Owen singing a song from "Annie"...that they had learned at a Broadway choir camp. Trevin felt so important to be standing up there with them as they sang their hearts out.
Benjamin & Landon playing some fiddle songs together...so proud of them!

We are anticipating more fun times this week as some special friends come to visit us...can't wait! Have a great week!

preparing...

2011-08-08T08:52:00.001-05:00

This seems to be the month of many changes...getting ready to watch Benjamin venture off to Kindergarten. His new school will be ready to open its doors on Aug 30th, so we are excited. I'm preparing myself for this big change. Tomorrow we'll hit the stores to buy his school supplies. We've purchased his uniforms, backpack, etc....so little by little we're getting ready.

Trevin, our little monkey [who has become such a tease, little rascal, but remains a bundle of love] is ready for potty training. I've been putting it off because of my work schedule, company, deadlines, & just because. We'll stay home this week more than we usually do & get this one checked off our list. If it doesn't happen this week - we'll try again after Benjamin is in school.

We're preparing for more hot & dry weather. We keep hoping that Mr. Weatherman will predict a change for us. So far, no luck. But we enjoy chilling out....eating homemade popsicles (we don't like store bought ones any more...if you're lucky, I'll post recipes this week), swimming in the evenings after Russell gets home from work, & playing games with Benjamin in the evening, spending some time outside in the evenings or early mornings. So....we're not suffering!

our date in July at the time of Russell's birthday :

conversations...

2011-08-02T20:40:00.002-05:00

I love our conversations with Benjamin...they are usually quite honest, hilarious, & thought provoking; all at the same time. He also loves to tell about his imaginary house, parents, family, etc in IL. This goes back a long ways...from playing with cousin Makenna. Anyway, I often forget to write down what he tells me. I don't want to forget this one though...

Tonight Russell was telling me about someone he works with....he works incredibly long hours, has a terrible commute to work, etc...you get the picture.

Andrea: "Oh boy, what a life."
Benjamin: Mommy, you are so funny. You do not have a life.
You have a family!!!

So true, but I love my family mucho mucho...wouldn't trade it for anything!

a happy day

2011-07-26T21:33:00.004-05:00

Happy Birthday to our wonderful husband/daddy!

We made him a special meal tonight including baby back ribs (oh my, these are delish!!) and for dessert...toffee tiramisu. It was my first time to make it and I believe Russell was pleased with the results.

Birthdays are fun in our house!

Advice to Myself...

2011-07-21T10:22:00.003-05:00

Enjoy your children while they're young because they grow up too fast.
Always treat your family as well as you would a guest.
Play more.
Keep a record of the unimportant moments as well as the important ones (I really wish I would have done that more!)
Chidren can be taught to do their own laundry - Benjamin is a huge help here!
Be in the moment.
Don't rush through the infant and toddler stages.
Be patient when it comes to potty training---especially when it takes longer than you think.
Breath.
Every moment does not need to be planned.
Elaborate vacations and fancy birthday parties are not requirements for a happy childhood.
A big empty box(& laundry basket) is more fun than most toys you can buy.
Take time to step back and see your child as the person he/she is becoming.

More Reunion pictures

2011-07-19T09:54:00.003-05:00

I found great delight in watching our kids interact with their cousins. Benjamin informed us that he didn't like his house in TX because he wanted to live in MT...nearly the same comment he made when we left St Louis. It was hard to leave...for the the little & big alike. But we have great memories. I can't wait to see how our 12x12 Shutterfly Custom Memory book turned out. I had a 50% coupon code, so it was a good deal.

meeting Melita for the first time

a hug for little cousin Lana (Ryan & Annette's youngest)

We were excited to get to try Famous Dave's...good BBQ

Grandpa Larry always had room on his lap...

Unforgettable Days...

2011-07-15T13:47:00.003-05:00

My camera had an extended vacation in MT while the rest of us headed back to CO on Saturday. So it is wonderful to have my camera/pictures now! We are reliving these precious memories...

Benjamin overlooking Billings from the cliff....everything was so lush & green in CO,WY, & MT.
Our first stop in Lewistown was to see Grandpa/Great Grandpa Clarence. We had a special visit with him before his afternoon rest...
Trevin at his usual hangout spot(JD riding lawnmower)...with a few cousins
Rob & Russell holding the babies!
More to come...

4th of July

2011-07-05T13:06:00.002-05:00

A quiet, relaxing time for us....swimming, cream slushes from Sonic, early morning walk/ride on the trail, getting ready for our next trip. We are usually gone over the 4th, so it was a nice change to be home this year.

Our swimmers....enjoying Papa & Nana's pool...

St. Louis: Day 3

2011-07-05T12:47:00.002-05:00

More family time...

Just seeing this dear great auntie & littie visits with her made the trip worth it!

Thanks to all my family for the wonderful memories we made together.

Now we are packing our bags again to head to MT! More fun times coming up.

St Louis: Day 2

2011-07-02T20:56:00.017-05:00

Highlights included:
-Sunday morning meeting together
-eating lunch & donuts with all the relatives {the donuts were from The Donut Stop...featured in Bon Appetite not long ago...we definitely did not count calories this weekend}
-meeting long lost cousin Frank {sorry, no photos available}
-Jon & Tom's gospel mtg that evening {seeing several friends....Darcie & Rhonda}

Benjamin became fast friends with Zane (Rhonda's boy)after gospel mtg.

St. Louis: Day 1

2011-07-01T12:29:00.008-05:00

Saturday, 6/25:

Grant's Farm {I had my heart set on going to the zoo, but this was a bit more manageble for our family this time & we all loved it....the St. Louis zoo is on our 'must do' list for future St. Louis visits.}

Des Peres Park {to soak up the sunshine & let the kids run}

Frozen Custard at Ted Drewes with the Klepzig cousins {seriously...it was worth every bite}.

last week...

2011-06-23T14:38:00.004-05:00

Before more time passes & I get too far behind...here are pictures showing we had fun times last week!

Thank you, Kimmie & Hannah for all your helpfulness...

Benjamin swimming the length of the YMCA lap pool during his last swimming lesson...go Benjamin!! He did great!

Now we are headed on vacation...woohoo!

Father's Day 2011

2011-06-20T14:46:00.002-05:00

Father's Day!

Trevin had to wear a tie like big brother

Benjamin took our picture after we got home from gospel mtg & a quick stop at Jamba Juice!

Happy Father's Day!

2011-06-19T13:38:00.002-05:00

The good & perfect heart is...

2011-06-14T08:11:00.002-05:00

Soft enough to be touched,
Hard enough to die to self,
Big enough to overlook the faults of others,
Small enough so there is no room for self,
Strong enough to conquer the battles,
and Weak enough to feel our need of God.

[excerpt from Grandma Jean's notebook]

Water Buddies

2011-06-12T18:30:00.003-05:00

Both boys love the water...however the super convenient Spray - Fountain WaterPark which just opened this week did not make it onto Trevin's top 10 list. He does not like showers...and maybe this reminded him of a shower??!! Anyway, Benjamin would love to go back again with friends (hint, hint...Chase & Mason, Simon, anyone else!) Let us know! This new park also has a great sand area where kids can dig & build without getting sprayed with water. I think Trevin would love that. Thank goodness for fun ways to keep cool this summer.

the beginning of our summer

2011-06-07T07:35:00.003-05:00

We started our summer off with a *big splash*...enjoying ourselves at Austin, Spencer & Hannah's water party. Benjamin loved the huge water slides, tunnels & fun. Trevin was content to watch the kids fly down the slides & get splashed. Mom & I took the boys to see a Thomas the Train performance which the both kids absolutely loved. The songs & storyline were great.

Let the summer fun continue!

9 wonderful years together...

2011-06-01T07:05:00.001-05:00

Today is our anniversary...I feel so lucky to have my husband as my help mate, the father of my boys, & my best friend! I have so many reasons to smile & be thankful.

"Loved you yesterday, Love you still; always have, always will."

more about Benjamin...

2011-05-31T20:44:00.003-05:00

Receiving his yellow ribbon from the assistant teacher of his class who helped for part of the year...since finishing her certification she has moved on & has her own class now. His wonderful teacher is in the background holding the microphone. I am amazed by their endless patience & dedication to teach.
our happy boy
the kids from his class who graduated & will go to Kindergarten this fall.
checking out his certificate
lots of smiles! I'm so sorry we didn't get a picture of Nana & Papa with Benjamin. Benjamin was super happy to have them at his school for the special occasion.

our little graduate

2011-05-26T20:57:00.001-05:00

what I love most...

2011-05-25T14:09:00.009-05:00

"What I love most about my home is who I share it with."
tad carpenter

may 2011

janury 2005

[little hands nearly ruined our cruise picture. thank goodness for scanning & photoshop!]

Brotherly Love

2011-05-17T21:39:00.004-05:00

I don't document very well in photographs how much these boys love each other. I loved my Mother's Day gifts from my family this year, but their love for each other and us is by far the best gift I could ever want for Mother's Day.

[taken on Mother's Day, 5.8.11]

20 months!

2011-05-17T13:53:00.006-05:00

This is a bit late....however the last time I was inspired to write, blogger was not working for me.

Things I want to remember about Trevin at 20 months...

he keeps our home lively with his laughter & jibber jabber

the terrific twos have already begun!

anything Benjamin can you, he can do too (or at least Trevin thinks he can)

will climb on ANYTHING

has discovered he loves ice cream

loves his Boppa (aka Papa) & calls him on 'his' cell phone every day

nearly every sentence includes motor noise for car/truck/semi/cement truck

is adding new words to his vocabulary every day

favorite sport: "hocKEE" (how to play: use mommy's kitchen spatulas and hit a ball as hard as you can, chase it, & repeat) Benjamin is credited with teaching him this game

loves to sit at the piano & play

his one nap in the afternoon can last from 45-90 minutes....so bedtime is still pretty early

will sit quietly & put tinkertoys together for quite a while

tells himself "no, no" when he knows he has done something wrong...but has yet to tell us 'no' in defiance.

races to come sit on my stomach when I lay down to do my crunches...ugh, that's hard work!

he is still so cuddly & loving...he was even loving on Grandma's dog today...Cocoa was dirty & spotted with paint...that didn't matter, Trevin just laid his head right up against Cocoa.

This little guy doesn't stop for very long, but I love that he stopped to smell the peace lily blooming on the plant we were given at the time of Grandpa Ben's funeral 2 years ago

I'm so glad that Benjamin has such happy & good memories of him, yet I'm so sorry Trevin will only know him thru pictures.

Mother's Day

2011-05-08T21:09:00.000-05:00

I feel so lucky!

a message for moms

2011-05-07T20:23:00.001-05:00

Taste Testing on Tuesday

2011-05-03T15:15:00.000-05:00

Chocolate-Drizzled Strawberry & Cream Pie
from Our Best Bites.

I am not crazy about strawberry pie...I've never liked the overly sweet glaze that covers all the strawberries & the graham cracker crust tends to get soggy so fast. However with all our lovely strawberries from the farm, I chose to make this recipe. We LOVED it. I also found a premade granola crust at our local store & it held up much better & I loved its crunch! We highly recommend this recipe.

Enjoy!

Someone, Somewhere

2011-05-02T21:22:00.003-05:00

Today I'm so thankful for friends who have made my life a little richer, days a little brighter, & helped me smile along the way...

Someone, Somewhere

Is it not something after all,
When paths divide, when shadows fall.
To know that there is someone who
Wonders a little, what you do?
Wonders a little where you are?
It may be near, it may be far…
It may be half the world around.
Is it not something to have found
Some soul, when other paths you choose
You cannot have, yet cannot lose?

Is it not something just to know
That when divided paths you go
You never quite completely part;
That each shall carry in the heart
Some memory of former days
Before you went divided ways?
Is it not something just to feel
What hills may hide, what clouds conceal?
Although you know no clasp of hands
That someone, somewhere understands?

Oh, we may part from many a friend.
Every song must have an end.
But in the heart the song sings on
When he who sang the song is gone.
So think of someone, somewhere, who
Wonders a little what you do?
Wonders a little where you are?
Though very near or very far
When paths divide, when shadows fall;
Is that not something after all?
[author unknown]

Bon Voyage

2011-04-27T14:34:00.002-05:00

We've been trying to prepare ourselves for this week - when our dear friends would leave TX. We have lots of good memories to hold on to until they come back! Safe travels, RLCM&M! We already miss you.

About Trevin

2011-04-24T22:08:00.010-05:00

random things about Trevin at 19 months...
likes to play meeting with his big brother
got his first hair trim this month...and actually sat still for all 45 seconds!
currently sporting his first big lip (did a face plant off the curb at gm on Sunday)
runs 80% of the time
reminds Grandpa Larry of 2 of his cousins...Morgan & Maya
nearly 30lbs
his huge 2 year molars are nearly all in....this has NOT been fun for him
likes to eat anything (especially what his brother is eating)
fascinated by little things...very detail oriented...will sit still for a long time playing with cars, trains
loves to blow kisses & snuggle
has transitioned really well from his old bedtime routine to reading books & singing a hymn
saying lots of words but prefers to make a motor noise when discussing or talking about anything with wheels (school bus, car, truck, semi)
sharing isn't easy, but we're working on it
can nearly open a door knob (the round ones...he's done the levers for a long time)

{thankful for the camera on my phone to capture these moments!}

goats galore!

2011-04-24T19:07:00.005-05:00

The boys were quite fascinated with the goats at Sweet Berry Farms.
"Can we take one home, please??" Benjamin asked me.
"Hmmm...I don't think they are for sale."

Have you ever seen a goat bridge? No signs of the mr. troll!

2 goats coming down...

so berry nice...

2011-04-23T15:18:00.005-05:00

On Friday we visited Sweet Berry Farms in Marble Falls...loved it!

I'm dreaming about this particular strawberry pie , strawberry jam, strawberry sauce, homemade strawberry popsicles...delish!

About Benjamin...

2011-04-19T08:50:00.009-05:00

These days have been busy ones for Benjamin...he enjoyed the workers here last week so much, finished up his Saturday group violin lessons, attended the petting zoo & spring activities at Nana & Papa's neighborhood park (Mommy, I chased the chickens around & around!), and has been busy helping me fill out paperwork for enrolling in a new charter school in RR for the fall (some of the paperwork required his signature & he felt so important writing his long name on the line)

Some things he has said lately that Mom has reminded me to document...

"Mommy, Trevin's cheeks are so fluffy(puffy??)!"

"Mommy, can you teach me how to do a cardboard (cart?) wheel??"

"Today we are sneakers! Trevin and I are sneaking around in your closet!"

Project Time

2011-04-18T13:10:00.003-05:00

Before Benjamin is out of school for the summer, I want to tackle this project. I know some of you have done this already, but in case you haven't & want to try...I'm sharing this link. Good Luck!

Poem for the week

2011-04-18T09:17:00.002-05:00

DO YOU WISH…

Do you wish the world were better? Let me tell you what to do –
Set a watch upon our actions; keep them always straight and true.
Rid your mind of selfish motives; let your thoughts be clean and high;
You can make a little Eden of the sphere you occupy.

Do you wish the world were wiser? Well, suppose you make a start
By accumulating wisdom in the scrapbook of your heart.
Do not waste one page on folly, live to learn, and learn to live;
If you want to give men knowledge, you must get it ere you give.

Do you wish the world were happy? Then remember day by day
Just to scatter seeds of kindness as you pass along the way;
For the pleasure of the many may be oftimes traced to one
As the hand that plants the acorn shelters armies from the sun.
[author unknown]

Springtime Activities

2011-04-15T11:31:00.004-05:00

I forgot to share these pictures of our boys with Grandpa Larry. We love the wildflowers this time of year...sadly there aren't many this spring.

A laugh for the day...

2011-04-11T15:14:00.003-05:00

I needed to read this today. What made me laugh even more was envisioning Russell taking our kids grocery shopping...oh yes, the things he misses out on!

Happy Monday & hoping for a week with lots of laughs!

Brothers?!

2011-04-08T12:48:00.002-05:00

Can you tell they are brothers?? I typically don't see much resemblence, but I do in these pictures. I nearly panicked when I found this outfit & realized there was no way that Trevin would fit into this for his 2 year pictures...so this year we got 18 month pictures! Same outfit, different ages(2yrs/18mo), different photographers, same reponse this mama...these smiles melt my heart. I love my boys!

weekend activities

2011-04-04T08:05:00.006-05:00

spending time with friends...they leave this month for Ireland. We are in denial!

2 little peas playing volleyball for the first time - even serving the ball... Way to go, Benjamin!! Setting up birthday parties with bears Flying planes with Grandpa Larry....tons of fun!

No Fooling!

2011-04-01T12:12:00.002-05:00

It's April 1st...but it's not a joke around here: Grandpa Larry is coming for a visit. We can't wait to spend some time with a special Grandpa. We promise to help him 'thaw' out (80s this weekend!) and give him lots of good laughs. Our boys are saying the funniest things these days. More on that later...

Have a fabulous weekend!

Sow a Seed

2011-03-27T21:13:00.003-05:00

Sow a seed of kindness as you travel on your way.
Twill return a lovely blossom greeting you some future day.

Sow a seed of gentle patience, though sometimes it is hard to do
It will make your heart much lighter and will make you stronger too.

Sow a seed of all forgiveness and in due time you will find
Growing there sweet understanding, leaving bitterness behind. [author unknown]

Candles!

2011-03-26T21:29:00.003-05:00

This month, both boys celebrated their "half" birthdays. It's a low key event around here, but we'd never turn down a chance to put candles in a cup cake/bundtlet, sing & blow out candles. It was so fun to watch *pure delight*. Trevin absolutely LOVES candles and I've sadly had to put most of my decorative ones away...even if they are not lit, they are a huge temptation & Trevin is not afraid to utilize his climbing skills to get to them. I'm reminding myself & Russell to enjoy everymoment...they won't be this small again [sniff, sniff]. But at the same time, it is so fun to see them growing/learning/exploring/discovering. My favorite word that Trevin has learned this week is bible (blubler).

Happy times around here...