The Buzzard Bunch

Birthday Boy!

2012-01-10T13:57:00.000-08:00

I cannot believe Caleb turned 2 this past week! Where does the time go? I still remember the day we found out we were having a boy!

*don't forget to pause the music on my playlist to the right :)

I remember the first time I laid eyes on your adorable little face!

And the day I held you in my arms for the very first time!

And of course the day we introduced our son to the family!

....and to your big sister who had no idea how much she would actually love having a brother (instead of a sister named Maddie)!

The first time you smiled at your Daddy and completely melted his heart!

...and your first real best friend

I remember your very first steps caught on video!

Sadly, my baby boy is slowly disappearing. In the past year, he has mastered walking, talking in short sentences, feeding himself, sleeping in a big boy bed, counting to 20 (with assistance), singing the ABC's and lots of other nursery rhymes, putting on his own shoes, and is learning to identify different colors.

Here are some of his favorite things:

food: yogurt drinks, apple juice, watermelon, pineapple, grapes, goldfish crackers, hot dogs, mac 'n chesse, cereal with milk, oatmeal, donut holes, and any type of sweet!

activities: puzzles, building with blocks, running, jumping on the trampoline, coloring, painting, looking at books

shows: Dora, Sesame Street, Frosty the Snowman, The Elf on the Shelf Movie

comfort items: paci's and blankie

cutest phrases: I love you, all done _________ (night night, car ride), Good Morning, Nice to Meet You, Uh-Oh Skeddy Oh's!

favorite recent pictures of my 2 year old:

All About YOU at 2:
Since day one, you have had the sweetest personality. You continue to be very laid back and love to be around people. You LOVE your family and especially love your Grandma and Grandpa and Nana and Grandpa. You are great with names and even though you are the youngest and newest in your preschool class, you learned everyone's name in just a few weeks. Your teachers would quiz you over all the kids names and you would get a big grin, point to them and say "right there!" They are amazed at how quickly you learn and have told us that although they try not to have favorites that YOU are theirs. Here is a video of you singing Jingle Bells at your Preschool this past Winter.

You are very social and love to be around people. You have a very warm and cuddly personality. You will gladly give out big teddy bear hugs and kisses. You love to make people laugh and love to perform. You will say "Look Mommy, Daddy, Kenzie" and will then show off something that you are proud of or that you think will make us laugh. You are very tender hearted and I invision you being a people pleaser in the years ahead. If I give you a disapproving look when you are being mischevious, you will put out your bottom lip and begin to cry. It makes disciplining you pretty easy, although I'm sure it won't always be! :) You are one active little boy. You love to climb, jump, run, roll....anything that involves any type of movement! You are curious about everything and love to put things together and take them apart. We have learned that babyproofing does not really work for you, you have figured out how to squeeze your little hands through the locks to open them and enjoy taking out the outlet covers and pulling out the vaccum and trying to plug it into them. The fact that you have not been electricuted, broken any bones or harmed yourself in any way is AMAZING to us! I guess boys will be boys! I love this video of you and your sweet Sister enjoying your Christmas toys in the basement.

....and here you are checking out your "big boy boy!"

To celebrate your big day, we went out to eat for your favorite meal: chicken fingers and french fries. We finished dinner with your favorite dessert....icecream! This coming weekend we will celebrate with the family!

We love you more than you will ever know and are so proud of you! Happy birthday, sweet boy!

Happy New Year!

2011-12-31T20:55:00.000-08:00

2011 was a year of change for our family! Here's to all that 2012 holds in store for us! Wishing you a happy & healthy 2012! Looking forward to a new year, new memories and new adventures!

Christmas 2011

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

Last year, we began a tradition with my family of exchanging gifts at our house on the night before Chrismas, followed by Christmas Eve dinner. This allows us to not rush around Christmas morning trying to be 3 places in 1 day. We get quality time with both sides of the family, along with special time Christmas morning just the 4 of us.

Nana, Grandpa, Great Grandma Monty, Aunt Emily and Uncle Cody came over around 4 for our gift exchange. Caleb loved helping pass out gifts this year (along with his big sis of course) and it was a great practice round for Christmas morning. I was very surprised at how patient Caleb was this year waiting for his turn to pass out and open presents. As usual, the kids were spoiled rotten by my family! :) Following presents, we enjoyed our traditional steak, shrimp cocktail and baked potato dinner. It was a great night together as a family, and we feel so blessed to be able to make these memories together each year.

Exchanging Gifts Christmas Eve

Great-Grandma Monty and Caleb and Mackenzie

Nana and Grandpa playing Santa

Caleb with Uncle Cody and Aunt Emily

Mackenzie and Aunt Emily

Big Sis isn't the only one in love with the new Princess Pop up Tent!

Aunt Em and sweet Caleb hangin' out!

Enjoying some appetizers before dinner

Dad and 2/3 of his girls (missed you Melissa!)

4 Generations

Best Buddies

Me and one of my favorite gifts....my amazing Dad!

Cody being "one of the girls!"

Preparing for Dinner!

Enjoying Christmas Dinner together!

...and then it was time to put on p.j's, lay out treats for Santa and his reindeer, and listen to "Twas the Night Before Christmas" read by Grandma Buzzard on a recordable book!

...and after storytime, it was time to get all nestled and snug in our beds....well the kids at least....Mommy started making breakfast casserole around 10:30 p.m., while Daddy finished wrapping last minute gifts....and after what felt like a few quick hours of sleep...some VERY excited children arose from their beds for some Christmas magic!

Christmas Morning!

Opening stockings with Daddy

Rippin' through the paper to see what Santa left!

Kenz showing off her new Princess Yahtzee game and Caleb loving tearing off the wrapping paper!

I love this picture below. Totally sums up what the morning looked like!

Daddy teaching Caleb all about tools

My sweet girl loving all her arts and crafts stuff

Caleb LOVING his new farm set. His teachers at school said it is his favorite toy and to add it to his Wish List! :) They were right!

Mommy and her favorite 2 gifts...and I'm not referring to the best friend's dolls!

I adore this picture! Big sis looking lovingly at Caleb hugging his favorite Christmas toy, an Elmo doll!

...and after unwrapping it was time for a quick tea party....

...and then Breakfast casserole, Grandma Buzzard's recipe. Yummy!

After showering and loading up, we hit the road for Christmas with the Buzzards! :)

Best Buddies, ready to pile into the car....can you tell they're excited?

Ready to unwrap with the Buzzard clan!

Ella, Kaylee and Kenz opening their stockings from Santa!

I love the next few pics. Such sweet memories from our day with the family!

The girls with their Figit Friends! A HUGE hit! We may have heard the phrase "Dance with me!" close to hundred times!! :)

The boys bonding over a little train time!

BFF's!

....and there's not much I can say other than "boys will be boys". I mean, who doesn't want to throw all the wrapping paper in the downstairs bathroom and turning it into a paper pit....do you know, Uncle Buzz? :)

the mischevious Buzzard boys....we may be in trouble in the future with these 2!

...and THE BEST gift this Christmas, was the addition of sweet Ava, Chad and Kendra's baby to the Buzzard family! We had to squeeze in a visit of course to meet our new neice! It is amazing how much I already love this little girl!

...and Uncle Buzz is pretty smitten as well!

Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year!

Countdown to Christmas!

2011-12-26T16:23:00.000-08:00

It's hard to believe Christmas is just days away!! We have been shopping, baking, decorating, and enjoying our annual Christmas-time traditions. Here are a few highlights of what we have been up to (and why I haven't been blogging.:)

1. Zoo Lights- Each year we head to the Zoo to visit the animals and see it lit up in all its glory. It is spectacular. We go each year with our friends, The Essman's, and it is always a fun (and comical) time!

2. Decorating- Every square inch of our house is covered with decorations. It is a Winter Wonderland and the kids LOVE it! Our house always looks so bare each year when everything comes down.

Putting up the Tree!

Can you find our silly elf?

Dining Room

Daddy's Office

staircase

Outdoor Lights

3. Breakfast with Santa- This year Mom and Dad invited us to Breakfast with Santa, at the Country Club. We feasted on a delicious breakfast buffet and Santa made a special appearance. He presented each child with a gift and photo. It was AMAZING and the kids still talk about it! Thanks Nana and Grandpa for such a special memory!

3. City Tree Lighting Ceremony- This year, Mackenzie and I enjoyed a girl's night that included a painting party at my school, watching the City tree lighting ceremony, and meeting Santa. It just so happened that the Art teacher at my school was having an art night at school. I signed up Mackenzie to do some Winter projects, and then we headed out with some of my coworkers and their kid's to be a part of the tree lighting ceremony and to meet Santa. It was a wonderful girl's night and I am so proud of her artwork that we will display for years to come!

Showing off her amazing artwork (footprint/handprint reindeer plate)

the finished products!

painting pals

Waiting patienty for the tree lighting ceremony

Meeting Santa

....and of course Santa brought his reindeer!

3. The Elf on the shelf- Each year after Christmas, an elf from The North Pole visits our house. He helps Santa keep tabs on us. Each night once we're asleep, the elf flies back to the North Pole to give his report. We look forward each morning to finding the elf and seeing where he has landed. It is great fun. Several times a day you hear the phrase "The elf is watching" coming from someone's mouth...including a certain 5 year old. :)

4. Baking- This was Caleb's first year to really get involved in the cookie decorating. I will just say that he was a bit sprinkle happy and may have used an entire bottle of sprinkles on one single cookie. We're setting that one out for Santa! :)

5. Christmas Programs- Both kids were involved in a Christmas program put on by their school. It was top notch and we were so impressed. They went all out with programs passed out by school age greeters, hot cocoa for the adults and the most precious program you have ever seen. Both kids did great on stage and Nana and Grandpa even made it for the big event!

The Whales Room performing Jingle Bells!

Our sweet jingle bell boy! He was amazing!

Hangin' with Nana and Grandpa after the show!

The Seahorse's Crew performing 5 Little Snowman Poem

Our sweet little snowman

School Parties!

6. Late Night Wrapping Sessions- Jeremy and I are usually up ridiculously late on Christmas Eve trying to get everything wrapped. Somehow, this year, we are super ahead of the game. We have almost everything wrapped and have even assembled most of the kids toys and taken them out of the boxes to make it more enjoyable on Christmas morning. We have had a lot of fun wrapping together each night (we usually do it separately) and reward ourselves with some great late night munchies! :)

7. Christmas Pictures- This year, I decided to surrender to the Professionals and let them take the kids pictures. I was pretty certain in my mind that Caleb wouldn't cooperate and that I was probably wasting a small fortune having someone else take the pictures, and print them. Boy was I wrong. The kids did great and we even ended up getting a family picture taken at the last minute. We have also enjoyed collecting cards from our mailbox each day and hanging them up.

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-12-14T19:56:00.000-08:00

I realize it's only a week away from Christmas and I am just now posting about Thanksgiving! At this rate, my blog about Christmas may post sometime around Spring Break! :) Life has been really busy for us with sickness, work and preparing for the holidays. But I am determined to get caught up on this blog before the New Year hits!

This Thanksgiving my older sister Melissa and her family of 7 came up from Connecticut for several days. It was so nice to see them again and makes me long to have her closer. Our kids all play so well together and we always have so much fun catching up. My sister Emily and her new husband Cody were also there and it was the first time in a long time that the WHOLE family was together for Thanksgiving.

There was lots of laughing, lots of noise, lots of playing, lots of eating and lots of quality time together. Aside from the typical Thanksgiving traditions, we enjoyed a fun outing to a bounce house in town, a Buckeye Pizza party at our house and a sisters' shopping spree on Friday morning, after Jeremy's annual late-night shopping spree the night before. I am so thankful for my wonderful family, and for my AMAZING in-laws who urged us to spend time with my side of the family knowing we will not see them again until this Spring/Summer. I could not ask for a better life. I know I am truly blessed!

3 Generations of Girls

3 cousins making a "thankful tree"

having a little boy time

Making forts (poor Rachel and her bloody nose, she did not want to remove the tp for the picture b/c she wanted to make sure her nose dried up properly. I heart that girl!. :)

Best Buddies! I love that these boys will grow up close in age!

Special Moments with Great-Grandma Monty

Precious memories

J's Mini-Me

Checking out Grandpa's fancy carving skills

sneaking in for a little slice of turkey before dinner

Nana's beautiful table (fit for 16)

Thanksgiving Feast

....and now it's time for a little Black friday research!

Hitting Buckeye Bounce after the ballgame on Saturday

so much fun! Somewhere there's a video out there of me doing some super sweet moves....let's hope someone deleted it! :)-

Foam War!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Halloween

2011-11-05T20:07:00.000-07:00

This year, we were definitely in the Halloween spirit. We were a little more "over the top" than usual. Any one who knows us well, knows that we typically go all out when it comes to any type of celebration. This Halloween was no different. I'm not sure if it's because I'm working fulltime now, so I am really trying to create fun family memories, or if it's because Mackenzie is a little older and it's easier to pull off with my sidekick. Either way, we made lots of Halloween arts and crafts and festive goodies the week leading up to Halloween. Jeremy and Mackenzie were in charge of outside decor and they did a great job! The night of trick-or-treat, we invited Nana and Grandpa & Aunt Emily and Uncle Cody over for dinner and to go trick-or-treating with us. It was a great night and they kids looked ridiculously cute in their costumes! Happy Halloween! :)-

Helping Mommy make a Halloween Cake...

and witches brooms out of pretzels and fruit by the foot

decorating a mini pumpkin

Carving jack-o-lanterns

and sorting the seeds!

Ooey, gooey, pumpkin guts! Caleb thought it was hysterical!

posing with their pumpkin creations

spooky outside decor

Halloween Treats for Trick-or-treat night

"finger" foods

Ghost and witch hat cookies

spiders and witches brooms

Dinner with the family before changing into costumes

Rapunzel and Fred ready to hit the streets

Nana and Grandpa and the kids

Hanging with their ~~child~~ grandchild

off to get candy!

Trick-or-treat!

Kenzie and neighborhood friends

Caleb and his girlfriend Claire

Kenzie and Aunt Emily

My sweet boys!

Happy Halloween!

Halloween Parties

2011-10-29T19:46:00.000-07:00

As a teacher, one of my least favorite days of the school year is the Halloween Party. Kids come barreling into school with 5 times the normal energy and excitement, they ask incessantly when the festivities are going to start, and you have 20 kids to dress in costumes, make-up and accessories.

Friday was Mackenzie and Caleb's Halloween parties at school. I have to say, I kinda felt a little like the kids in my own classroom, excited to see my kids in their school environment, parading happily in their costumes and enjoying their party. Because I couldn't be at both parties at the same time, Nana volunteered ~~ok, I volunteered Nana~~ to attend Caleb's party, while I attended Mackenzie's first. Since this is our first time at a daycare center, I wasn't sure what to expect. I have to say, they totally exceeded my expectations. Both parties were well organized, thoughtfully planned, and kid-centered. The kids were all very well behaved and polite.

The parties started off with a costume parade. I about fell over when I saw that Caleb was actually in his costume ~~you go Nana!~~ He looked so big marching through the halls with his little giraffe tail swaying happily back and forth. The kids then headed outside to "trunk or treat" and then returned to their classrooms for their party. Mackenzie's class, along with the Kindergarten class took a walking fieldtrip to local businesses down the street to trick-or-treat. I don't know who had more fun, the kids or the workers passing out candy. It was really sweet and extra special b/c Daddy surprised us and was waiting on the sidewalk before we made it to the building.

Here are some pics, many courtesy of Nana, from their Halloween parade and party.

Mackenzie's class parade:

"Rapunzel" heading down to the parade on the 1st floor

Walking field trip to trick or treat at local businesses

Daddy's here! Best pic of the day!

Trick-or-treating with Mommy and Daddy

joyfully skipping into local business for candy

trick-or-treat!

so proud to have Daddy with her!

headed out for more candy...

...and back at school....to trunk-or-treat

Caleb's class parade:

can you spot the ridiculously cute giraffe (pun intended)?

trunk-or-treat (hard to see him, but I took this as we headed out on our walking field trip with Kenzie's class)

taking a break from trunk-or-treating to pose for Nana

Party time in the Pre-K Class!

Snack time....wouldn't you know my child ate her fruit salad before ANYTHING else...and yes, she requested that I bring that to her party....of all things....ha!

Posing with friends!

Caleb's Class Party!

Loving snack time

and the purple frosted cupcakes were his favorite ~~(can someone please tell me why someone would donate purple frosted cupcakes to kids under 2 in their costumes...i'm just sayin')~~

Nana and the Parents at Caleb's class party (Nana, you are the BEST!)

nope, not spoiled one bit. Hitting up the cocktail waitress for a cool drink. Being a giraffe is hard work!

Hanging with Nana

Finally, out of that hot costume and ready to play

Hanging in Kenzie's class before heading home. Caleb loved being in there and as you can see, Kenzie tackeld him with a big bear hug when he entered!

Mr. Big Shot

Nana and Kenzie

Our family + an astronaut

What a special day to spend together as a family. We are so fortunate for the wonderful staff that love on and care for our children. Caleb's teachers (weeks ago) even commented that they know they aren't supposed to have favorites, but that he is theirs' and they pick him up and cuddle him whenever they can! So fun to watch our children happily interact with their friends...we've come a long way from their very first drop off!

When the Buzzard is away....

2011-10-27T19:23:00.000-07:00

...the family will play!

While Jeremy was hitting up the casino's in Vegas and relaxing poolside on a "guy's trip" I took the kids to Boo at the Zoo with some girlfriends and their kids. So maybe I didn't get to be feet away from the infamous Kardashian clan at a swanky night club, but I did get to spend my day with some wild animals...and I will let you decide if I am referring to my children or the actual animals at the zoo.

It was my first time to go and I cannot believe we have not done it before! The zoo was decked out in fall decor, there were "characters" for kids to meet and get their pictures with~~who I might have accidently spilled my entire iced cappucino on while trying to manage a stroller, 2 kids and a camera~~, candy stations where the kids could trick-or-treat and of course lots of animals to see! The weather was in the mid 60's and the kids loved spending the day outside with good friends!

Ready to trick-or-treat at the zoo. Caleb was all smiles before "tricking" him into his costume!

...and he was definitely not all smiles meeting these oversized characters.

My sweet Rapunzel. Love her blonde wig!

My wild giraffe!

the boys...

Pretty princesses

the whole gang

Brave princess petting a snake!

Checking out the starfish

Fun at the playground

Joshua and Laura

Ian, Emily and Rachel

Me and the kids

And to end the weekend, we met my parents and grandma for lunch. I'm sure the entire Retirement Village was excited when we left and the quiet and calm atmosphere returned. :)

However, I know Monty wouldn't have traded those special moments for anything else in the World.

Pumpkin Patch

2011-10-15T19:28:00.000-07:00

This weekend we braved the cold and windy weather and hit the pumpkin patch. The kids had a blast and to our surprise, two of our good friends and kids happened to be there too! The kids enjoyed playing in a corn box, running through a maize, sliding down the slides in the barn, taking a tractor ride out to the pumpkin patch, and spending time with family and friends. It was a perfect Fall day!

Playing in the corn sandbox

Heading into the corn maize

Hittin' up the slides

Weee!

Big fun!

Mackenzie and Mommy

Caleb LOVED the hay!

Hayride to the pumpkin patch

The quest to find the perfect pumpkin

Heading back to the Farm

Somebody was tuckered out!

Our lil' pumpkins

Checkin' out

Enjoying a little more playtime before heading home

And to end the day, Kenzie delivered our "boo" bags around the neighborhood. (It's a fun pre-Halloween activity where you deliver fall goodies to an unsuspecting neighbors front porch. The best part of course is delivering it in the dark of the night, ringing the doorbell and running before they answer the door).

Festivals, Fairs and Fall Fun!

2011-10-09T19:15:00.000-07:00

I am a little behind on my blogging, so I am going to combine a few Fall entries into one! On top of being back to work fulltime and being sick 2 weekends in a row, this poor blog has been a bit neglected. One of these days, I will figure out this whole fulltime working Mom thing and be back to my consistent blogging. Until then, you may just have to settle for hogde-podge entries!

Back in September, my Dad and I took Mackenzie to our annual trip to the Shekinah Festival, in Plain City. She has gone 3 years in a row with my parents and their good friends, Bill and Sue, and grandson, Brayden. She looks forward to it every year. From horseback riding, arts and crafts, tractor rides, a petting zoo and homemade icecream, there is something for everyone.

This past weekend, ~~I stayed home miserable with congestion and a sore throat~~, Jeremy took the kids up to Loudonville for the Street Festival and cousin Ella's 9th bday! The weather was perfect, and the kids had a fabulous time riding rides, eating fair food, having a family sleepover, and being together. Caleb and Owen even got to ride a few rides for the first time. They were BIG fans of the fair, and can't wait until next year when they can do even more!

after a night of fun, it was off to Grandma and Grandpa's for a sleepover!

and scrambled eggs and sausage for breakfast....Grandma's the best!

...and then it was off to cousin Ella's birthday party. 9 years old...how is that possible? I still remember Jeremy and I had just started dating when we got the call that Ella was born!

Happy Bday, sweet Ella!

It's been a fabulous few weeks, full of fun family memories! Next up, picking pumpkins and Halloween! :)
I love Fall!

Lynn's Fruit Farm, 2011

2011-09-09T18:57:00.000-07:00

Friday after work, we made our annual trip out to Pataskala to the apple orchard. It is one of our favorite fall activities! My children are ridiculously good eaters. I am not real sure how that happened; my only explanation is that it must be some sort of deficiency they are making up for from their time in utero where I craved fried foods and icecream! We go through fruit/veggies like it's nobody's business in our house. In fact, if you ask my kids what they want for breakfast, lunch or dinner....it is fruit. If we get fast food, Kenzie orders the garden salad and whatever fruit they have....seriously! So....going to Lynn's fruit farm for our family, is the equivalent of getting fair food for most families!

Last year I carried Caleb in the Baby Bjorn, see here, so this was his first time to frolick through the maze of apples. He LOVED it! I'm sure in his opinion, all food should be so readily available, and he loved that he could pull apples from the branches and take a bite all on his own. Mackenzie was in heaven, as apples are probably her favorite fruit. She was serious business about finding the absolute, perfect apples. I'm pretty confident that she ate 3-4 apples down to the core during the picking process.

On the way home, she was already listing the things we will be making with the $50 worth of apples we bought...yeah, we kinda got a lot. We Buzzard's tend to buy, or in this case, pick in bulk. I cannot wait to make our traditional favorites: homeade apple crisps, apple pies and cinnamon apples, along with the other 43 things Kenzie is adamant about making.

And of course, you can't go to the apple orchard without stopping by their market. I won't even tell you what we spent there.... here is a picture of our purchases....however, I forgot to include the dozen fresh peaches and candied cashews that we also brought home.

Daddy/Daughter Buckeye Game

2011-09-03T18:01:00.000-07:00

I'm pretty sure it was only a few hours after giving birth to Mackenzie that Jeremy asked "so when do you think she'll be old enough to take to a Buckeye game?" Anyone who knows my husband knows that he eats, breathes and sleeps Ohio State football. He has waited patiently for 5 years, and today was the BIG day. Of course, my husband who loves to go all out for special occasions bought her the perfect Buckeye dress, necklace, pom-poms and hair bows. To say that she was excited is the understatement of the year!

Here she is counting down the minutes before leaving for the game. . .

....and of course Caleb had to make an appearance....in his jammies....don't worry, you know he too had an outfit planned for the first game of the season. :)

I love this one, Daddy and his little buckeyes...

At St. John Arena waiting for the band's "Skull Session" pregame....

Hanging out before the game starts.....

and....after 5 long years of waiting....Daddy got the picture he's been waiting to frame.

I would say it was a pretty successful Daddy/Daughter date...and I'm pretty sure this will be an annual event!

After close to 100 degree temperatures, a heat advisory, and the sun beating down on them all day long, this girl was OUT!

...and just before bed, I took this precious video of her singing The Ohio State Fight Song, with a bit of a country twang (totally random, but hysterical).

GO BUCKS!

Mackenzie's 5th Birthday!

2011-08-30T17:43:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe it was 5 years ago today that we welcomed this sweet baby into our lives.

What's even harder to believe is that my sweet baby has turned 5! We are so proud of the little girl that you have grown into. You have a huge heart, a hysterical personality, and a determination to learn and try new things. In fact, just this Summer, you learned how to tie your shoes, jump rope and swim without floats. You are a bit of a perfectionist, and sometimes get frustrated if you can't master something right away. But you will NOT give up and will sit for hours practicing something until you have figured it out. I hope you keep this determination always.

To start off the birthday weekend with a bang, your cousins, Aunt Kate and Uncle Buzz came up for a sleepover. You were so suprised and loved having them here for a weekend of fun.

We also celebrated your birthday at Pump It Up, a place in town with inflatables. It was a big hit!

And, on your official birthday (Tuesday) Mommy and Daddy took a half day off work and picked you up before naptime (your least favorite time of the day at daycare) and suprised you with an afternoon movie, The Smurf's. You were SO excited to get to leave school early! We finished off the day with Boston Market for dinner, a bike ride, and a nice warm bubble bath before bed.

We are so honored to be your parents, and love watching you learn and grow. We are so proud of the big sister that you are. While you can be rough and tumble at times, you also impress us with your thoughtfulness. During daycare drop offs, when your brother is crying (and without any prompting), you console him by saying "Don't worry, Caleb. School is cool. You will play, eat lunch, go outside. It is so much fun, brother!" (You say this, even though you are just as heartbroken to have to go, but put on a brave face just for your brother).You are wise and kind beyond your years!

Happy birthday, Kenzie Roo! We love you!

Daycare Debut

2011-08-04T18:59:00.000-07:00

A few months ago, we decided on a daycare center to send our children to, now that I am returning fulltime to work. Ideally, we would have loved an at-home daycare, but transportation to preschool for Mackenzie was an issue we couldn't work around. So, we picked a school that is highly accredited, well-known,and that felt like the best fit for our family's needs. Although school does not start for a few more weeks, we decided it would be wise to slowly phase the kids into school, so that hopefully by the time II return to work, they will have adjusted to the routines and schedules, and become aquainted and comfortable with the staff.

We picked Wednesday of last past week as their first day. Wednesdays are "water days" where they play outside and enjoy lots of fun water activities. That particular day they also had a local musician visit the school. Jeremy cancelled a morning meeting and met me there to walk the kids in on their first day.

on our way to school, Caleb was not a fan from the very start

Heading in for their first day. Caleb is such a gentleman and was more concerned with opening the door than being in the picture. :)

We took Caleb in first and he happily ran right in and started checking out all the toys. We got all of his things unpacked and quickly exited the room before he noticed.

It was not long before he was in tears, and this lasted most of the day. His teachers are WONDERFUL and cuddled and held him the majority of the day. One even layed by him and rubbed his back during naptime. It was a rough day, but he made it through and we were so proud of him! I can't imagine what he must have felt being in a strange environment with strangers, unable to anticipate or predict their schedule or new way of doing things. Seeing him crying when we dropped him off and when I picked him up broke my heart. His poor little eyes were bloodshot and swollen by the time I got there, but when he saw me arrive to pick him up he ran into my arms yelling "Mommy, Mommy" and all was well in the World again.

Day 2, all smiles when he saw Mommy come in during snack time

Mackenzie had a great day! She went right into her room and one of the little girls had drawn her a picture and had it waiting for her. That made her day. She was pretty shy and quiet (which are words I would normally not use to describe her:), but joined right in with her class and waved to us with a smile when we left.

When I called into school, the Director told me that when she popped in, she never would have known it was her first day. She said one of her teachers commented to her that she "wishes she had a 100 Mackenzie's" and that it was the easiest transition she's ever had with a new student. While Mackenzie enjoyed her half day, her comments to me on the ride home were that "it felt like a year that she was there" and that one of her teachers wasn't very nice. This last one broke my heart. When I questioned her for more info, she said that one of her teachers was really nice and the other one was not. (This teacher is unfortunately new to the room and was not there when we originally toured. I was not real impressed myself when we dropped her off that morning at her underwhelmingly unenthusiastic lack of greeting. As a teacher myself, I try to go above and beyond to make new students and their parents feel welcome and at home.) However, Mackenzie has made a couple of really good friends, and seems to be happy there. She isn't overly excited to go there, but she's not upset or complaining about it either. I'm sure it will just take time. Praying it gets easier for all of us in the future.

Aside from not being with my kids everyday, I am sad that they will only have a few hours together before and after school each day. One day after pick up, Mackenzie told me that she misses Caleb when she's at school all day. Luckily there recess times overlap, twice during the day. Mackenzie shared this story about her and Caleb at recess. Get out the tissue box. It is so sweet, it will make you cry. Here's the conversation:

(Kenz)"Mommy, guess what, I saw Caleb outside today. He was crying."
(Me)"Oh really? You guys get to play with each other outside? That's great!"
(Kenz)"Well, Caleb's on the baby playground, and I'm on the big girl playground. But when we are outside and he sees me, he starts yelling and crying "sissy, oh sissy" over and over and he runs to the fence. Then he puts his fingers in the holes (of the fence) and I put mine in and he pats my hand."
(Me)"Oh Kenzie, that is so sweet. I know it's probably his favorite part of the day seeing you."
(Kenz)"Yeah, but then my friends call my name and I want to go play with them and go down the slide. So I leave him and then he just cries and cries. He keeps screaming "oh sissy, oh sissy" and then I go back."
(Me) "I am so proud of you for taking care of your brother. I know you want to be with your friends, but I'm proud of you for being there him." (choking back the tears)....

4th of July

2011-07-10T18:17:00.000-07:00

We started off our weekend hosting a cookout at our house with friends. The weather was hot and muggy, so we had all kinds of water activiites for the kids to keep them cool (and occupied:). The slip-in-slide was the hit of the night, and got so much use it actually broke toward the end of the night. Definitely a sign of a good party. With the kids occupied, the adults enjoyed some adult beverages and good conversation. We ended the night watching Red,White and Boom's Fireworks on the big screen downstairs.

The next morning, we hit the road and headed out to The Buzzard's lakehouse. We enjoyed several cookouts, soaking up the sun on the dock, swimming, smores, boat rides, and of course fireworks on the lawn. My parents joined us this year, and it was so nice to be surrounded by both our families (and lots of help with the kids:).

After a good nights sleep at the lake, and another full day there, we loaded up that night and headed home to recoop. The next morning we headed over to my friend Beth's house, to meet up with several of my high school girlfirend's and their kids. Our caravan left on foot, and walked about a mile to get to Dublin's 4th of July parade. The kids loved watching all the floats and collecting candy in their bags! I love that my kids have become great friends with my friend's kids. It's so fun watching them grow up together and enjoy these annual traditions together. Later that night, Kenzie and I enjoyed a girl's night with my girlfriend's and their kids and hit up the fireworks display. It was a blast (pun intended:)! After 4 nights of being up until well past 10, the girl was beat! She barely made it out of the neighborhood before she was asleep.

It was an action packed, fun-filled weekend! We are so blessed to have been able to celebrate our country's independence with dear friends and family. Thanks to all the past and present service men and women who protect and defend our freedoms! God Bless!

Father's Day Interview

2011-06-18T12:23:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day to the best Daddy in the World!!! Mackenzie and I thought it would be special to document, in her own words, some of the many reasons why she loves her Daddy! Hope you enjoy!

oops, we had a little technical difficulty, but don't worry, the show will go on:)

Love you, Daddy! Happy Father's Day from your biggest fan!

Little Swimmer

2011-06-17T19:10:00.000-07:00

Mackenzie started swim lessons this week. She is taking a 3 week course, 4 days a week. She has the same swim instructor as last year, Kate, who she adores. So far, she has jumped off the diving board twice, swam several strokes to her instructor and back WITHOUT a floatie, and swam the full lenght of the pool (there and back) during class with a floatie. I am so proud of my sweet 4 year old! I sometimes forget that she's still just a little girl, even though she's doing all these big kid things!

Here's a few video's of our little swimmer! Enjoy!

*swimming a few strokes without floaties:

*swimming the length of the pool (this is lap 2!)

*jumping off the diving board for the 1st time this summer
(if you listen closely, you will hear her ask her teacher kindly "can you move a little closer?" She was trying so hard to be brave!)

Way to go, Kenzie! We are so proud of you!

Happy 66th, Mom!

2011-06-16T20:06:00.000-07:00

Happy birthday to the most amazing Mother in the World! I am so blessed to have had your influence through the years. I have such wonderful and loving memories of growing up through my childhood, and have loved becoming good friends in my adulthood. You continue to inspire me in your giving and selfless ways. I love you dearly. Happy 66th!

*sorry for the poor quality of your bday video. I'm not sure why it cut out, but couldn't pass up posting this bday seranade.

Party of 7

2011-06-13T20:24:00.000-07:00

Over Memorial Day Weekend, we hosted the Limburg family for 5 days (big sis Melissa, brother-in-law David, and 5 kids). The last time they were at our new house, was when we were in contract; before we officially owned it. Our realtor set up a showing for us, so we could walk them through the house. It was so fun this time around to get to enjoy the new house together, and we had plenty of room for everyone. In fact, they have already booked their next trip this July, and lucky for them, the Buzzard Hotel is available. We can't hardly wait to have them back!

Here are some of my favorite memories from when they were here:

Kenzie and Sam were the first two up everyday. I loved coming down the stairs and seeing Kenzie sitting with my sister and her sweet son, and having their morning conversation.

Having a table full of kids at mealtime was always a blast, and full of laughter! Melissa and I had a good assembly line going on at mealtime...we were like modern day Lavern and Shirley.

Playtime between the kids was one of my favorite memories. With 7 kids under one roof, you would assume that there would be some arguments or issues sharing. There were honestly NO arguments or issues. The kids played unbelievably well and enjoyed having playmates in each other.

We had a cookout (which turned into a cook-in thanks to weather) where great-grandma Monty got to meet baby Sam for the first time. Watching the joy in my Grandma's eyes as she played with all her greatgrandkids melted my heart!

Watching my children, and neices and nephews, be a part of my little sister's wedding was very special. They all took their role very seriously and were so proud to be a part of her special day.

Getting some "girl time" with my sister was my very favorite party though. From quiet car rides without kids, to our late night snacks and talks til midnight, to a few meals (like at the reception) where we weren't worried about kids was fabulous! I just wished that she lived closer so we could do this more often!

Watching the Dad's and their daughters dancing for hours on end at the wedding was so sweet. The girls were like little princesses dancing with their princes. It is a moment that I am sure the Dad's nor their daughters will ever forget.

The day after Em's wedding, my parents had the "Barth" family over for pizza. It was so fun for me to see my children playing with my cousin's children. I have such fond memories of family get togethers and playing with my cousins over the years. It was so special to see our kids now playing together.

Our house sure misses seeing these sweet faces cuddled up on the couch in the morning. We are counting down the days until July when you return! Love and miss you!

Emily's Wedding

2011-06-02T19:18:00.000-07:00

My little sister, Emily, got married this past weekend. How is it that my little side kick growing up is now old enough to be married? I have been in wedding mode for months now, planning Emily's bachelorette party weekend, assisting the bride in a trip to Cinci to find her dream dress, attending bridal showers, ordering wedding attire, and preparing for my older sister (and family of 7) to arrive and stay with us for the week.

After weeks of rain, the weather turned out beautiful for Emily and Cody's wedding. All their planning and hard work paid off, and everything went off without a hitch. The flower girls (Mackenzie and cousins Rachel and Anna) loved every moment of being dressed like a princess, and took great pride in throwing their rose petals. The ring bearers (Caleb and cousin Jonathan) were ridiculously cute in their tuxedos, and although Caleb didn't go down the aisle, he did great during the wedding/reception. We couldn't be happier for the happy couple, and wish them much health, love and happiness in their journey together!

Here are some (and by some I mean a TON) of pictures from their special day. Congratulations, Emily and Cody! Thanks for letting us be a part of your special day!

Friday afternoon, Bridesmaid's Luncheon:

Friday night, Rehersal Dinner at River Club at Confluence Park:

the bride visiting the kids during dinner (clearly they were loving the menu selection:)

Me and brother-in-law David

My older sister Melissa and sweet son Samuel

Cousins Lauren and Ashley (I miss these girls)

Bridal Party and Spouses (my sweet hubby took the kids home early to bed, so I could enjoy

a fun night out)

Saturday morning: Getting updo's:

Em getting ready for her groom

Enjoying a little pampering

Saturday afternoon: getting ready at the church:

Me and my baby sister, and my baby girl Kenzie

Emily and her flower girls

Sisters and their kids

the boys getting dressed in their tuxedos

sweet and shy "J"

could these boys be any cuter in their tuxedos?

Cody and Caleb

and I had to add this pic of my nephew, Sam in his bow tie

Wedding Ceremony:

Mom being escourted by grandson and usher, Michael

big sister Melissa

Me, trying not to trip on my dress

My nephew Jonathan, who went down without his cousin Caleb

Flower girls: Anna, Mackenzie and Rachel

beyond precious

Giving away his last daughter

How gorgeous is the back of this dress?

waiting on his bride (something he will have to get used to:) Love ya, Em!

the Happy Mr. and Mrs. Coppel

After wedding pictures:

Barth Family Picture

Bridal Party

Family Pic

Me and my sweet son

My wonderful Mother-in-law who helped out before, during and after the wedding and reception!

Reception at The Athletic Club of Columbus:

eating appetizers at Cocktail Hour

The proud parents

Checking in with Jeremy and Kids at reception (thank you and your parents for all you did)!

Nana and Sam

Kenzie hanging with the happy couple

Melissa and sweet Sam

Bouqet Toss

Posing with the bride and her bouqet after the toss. She was so excited. Sorry, Rachel! :)

Father/Daughter Dance

Can't believe one day these daddies will share in their own father/daughter dances!

Electric Slide

Kenz and Grandpa Buzzard gettin' down. Thanks for all your help on and off the dance floor:)

The Groom and Flower Girls

The Bride and Flower Girls

Gettin' Jiggy

Kenz and Anna cuttin' a rug

These girls danced ALL NIGHT LONG!

Dancing with Grandpa Barth

Sunday afternoon, Cookout at the Coppels:

Samantha, Kenzie and Rachel

Rachel and Caleb

Sunday Night: Pizza at Nana and Grandpa's with Barth Family:

Barth Family Grandkids (only about 1/2 of them)!

As you can see, it was an action packed couple of days, and I haven't even posted yet about hosting my big sister Melissa and her family of 7 (coming soon). Congrats to the Happy Couple! We love you!

Mother's Day 2011

2011-05-09T11:54:00.000-07:00

I could have never imagined how much my life would change by becoming a mom! My life before having children seems like a distant memory some days. I have traded sleeping in late, for early mornings. I have traded weekends out on the town, for birthday parties and playdates with preschool friends. I have completely changed my priorities, opinions, and perspective on life. I have learned so much through the eyes of my children, and have learned to enjoy the small and simple things that I used to overlook. Thank you, Mackenzie and Caleb for the many lessons you have taught me, for the unconditional way you love me, and for giving me the role of "mommy!" I am so blessed!

*surprising Grandma Buzzard for an early Mother's Day dinner, Saturday evening

*4 Generations on Mother's Day

*me and my 2 biggest blessings

Happy Mother's Day to all!

Mother's Tea

2011-05-07T19:25:00.000-07:00

Last week, Mackenzie was so excited to present me with an invitation to a Mother's Day Tea at her school.

Since that day, we have been counting down the days, and she has been full of excitement in anticipation of this special time together. I was a little nervous considering I would have a 15 month old in tow, and that could make things a bit of a challenge, and not necessarily all about her. But the wonderful staff at her preschool had the gymnasium filled with baby toys and had other staff members there to watch the younger siblings. Caleb, to my surprise, did really well. Which meant, 30 wonderful one-on-one minutes together to see my sweet girl in the school setting, and make a memory that I will not forget.

One by one, the children were sent out in the hall to greet their Mommy. Then they presented us with a homemade gift bag which contained a painted wooden necklace. She was so proud, and made me wear it ALL day!

The teachers took a quick photo of us, and then our little ones escourted us to our table where we enjoyed fruit salad, pretzels and cheese and pink lemonade. The centerpieces were hand painted flower pots, with freshly planted flowers.

After our snack, we were seranaded with some special songs, and then were presented with our final present. It was my favorite gift of all....a cookbook made by the preschoolers. Each child contributed a recipe that was a favorite that their Mommy made. One of her teachers commented how excited she was about this (since she is my little assistant in the kitchen), and how she was the last to finish illustrating her picture because she wanted it to be "just right."

(here is the recipe Mackenzie shared in the cookbook, that is her favorite recipe I make: "she puts sugar in the bowl, then pepper, then salt and cherry juice in the bowl. Then she cooks it in the over for 5 minutes. Then, she puts on sugar icing that's pink, 4 candles and sprinkles. Then Mommy, Daddy and Caleb and me eat it." Love it! :)

It was such a special day, and it didn't end there. When we got home, I put Caleb down for a nap, and when I came down, she had my lunch ready.....crackers, cheese, a clemintine and a glass of water. Oh, and it was waiting for me in the family room....on an end table...with the remote! She said "Mommy, I made you this special lunch and you relax and watch a show." Melt my heart! Oh, and I forgot to add, halfway through my show, she called me over to the kitchen table for snack time: chocoalte chip cookies and a kiddie size cups of water.

Thank you Kenz, for giving me the title of Mommy! I am so proud and blessed to have that title!
Thanks for making me feel so loved and special....and in case you were wondering, I could really get used to someone making my lunch and giving me a half hour of uninterrupted t.v. time in the middle of the day! :)

First Fitting

2011-04-29T18:42:00.000-07:00

My father-in-law works in the shoe business. Is this not every girl's dream to marry the man of her dreams AND get free shoes? Bob, and his brother Dave, have run Buzzard's Family Shoes for more than 25 years (check out their website here). The boys grew up in the shoe business, founded by their parents, Leo and Mary Jane. In the midst of a failing economy, their shoe store has thrived. It's because they care more about the people they serve, than just making a sale. I couldn't be more proud to carry the Buzzard name!

So, it is only fitting (literally) for me to want to photograph my children getting fitted for shoes by their Grandpa, for the very first time. Precious moments...

Grandpa sizing Mackenzie, 1 year

Grandpa sizing Caleb, 1 year

High 5 for the great service, Grandpa!

Easter 2011

2011-04-29T12:29:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe how quickly Easter has come and gone. It is also hard to believe how much things have changed within the last year. For instance.....

Then (2010)

Now (2011)

As is the case with any holiday/celebratiion, there was lots of excitement leading up to Easter. We had daily egg hunts around the house, filled close to 100 easter eggs for an egg hunt we co-hosted with my high school friends, enjoyed the first egg hunt at the new church building with friends and family, made and dyed dozens of hard boiled eggs, attended easter services with the Buzzard family in Wooster, and did our annual picture with the Easter bunny. It was an action packed few weeks for sure, but we wouldn't want it any other way!

Waiting patiently at Beth's house to hunt eggs (annual egg hunt with h.s. friends)

ready, set, go!

kenzie and ian

the best group shot we could get :)

eating pizza with Lauren

hanging out with Avery

Family pic at Church Egg hunt

Caleb collecting as many eggs as his little hands could hold

Kenzie with her basket full of eggs

hanging out with best buds Connor and Peyton

this one cracks me up. I love our expressions, and Jeremy's left hand :)

best hubby ever, helping out with the ring toss

Like Father, Like Daughter

me and the kids

caleb running up and down the ramp outside of church

sweet smiles

Easter Pic outside of Church

Celebrating Easter in Wooster with the Buzzard clan

Opening baskets that the bunny left at Grandma and Grandpa Buzzard's

Owen and Caleb bird watching

sweet cousins

Grandma's Boys

sharing their easter treats with neighbor's

Easter Morning at our house

Opening their basket of goodies....Caleb is a huge fan of suckers, if you couldn't tell!

Mmmmm, Easter treats

tickets to the Ringling Bro's Circus

easter smiles

Loving their baskets and goodies

The bunny even hid eggs for our own egg hunt

sorting eggs

still loving his easter basket, clap, clap!

Thank you note to the bunny!

Happy Easter!

Happy Bday, Michael!

2011-04-07T18:36:00.000-07:00

13 years ago today, I was given one of my most treasured titles...becoming Aunt Jill. Thank you Michael for that amazing gift! I am so proud of the teenage boy that you have become. I still cannot believe that you are a teenager! You are such a good role model to your 4 siblings and 4 cousins. We are beyond proud of you! You are such a smart kid, full of love, laughter and curiousity about the World around you. Your outlook on life has always been so positive, and you have such a fun personality. Happy Bday, sweet nephew. We love you!

....and although we typically seranade you on your birthday, here is a little video of you seranding the family several years ago during the family talent show at the Outer Banks. (Don't forget to pause the playlist to the right, so you can get the full "Dale Ray"rock star treatment:).

COSI

2011-04-06T13:29:00.000-07:00

Every weekend, we try to plan some "family fun time." Lately, I have been struggling trying to find fun and original things to do. After a never ending Winter, we are pretty much running out of indoor playgrounds, mall play areas, kid friendly restaurants to eat at, and other activities that get us out of our house. This weekend, while looking online for things to do in Columbus, Ohio, we saw that the Children's Theatre was performing small excerpts of Cinderella, at COSI (Center of Science and Industry, a hands on science center for all ages located in downtown Columbus). As soon as we saw the word Cinderella, we knew we had hit the jackpot. Although we paid a small fortune, we all enjoyed a wonderful time. Mackenzie learned a lot, and they both loved all the hands on activiites and exhibits.

waiting for the Children's theatre, and of course, Cinderella!

Cinderella and Prince Charming

Mackenzie and the evil step-sister's, Anastasia and Drizella

Making her own princess crown

So proud!

The Kid's Zone

Caleb learning about force and motion...

...his favorite exhibit!

Lego Land

We loved the large size and soft feel of these!

Finally a sink just Caleb's size. He loved turning it on and off. Big fun!

Yes, there were even light switches his size. He was in heaven

Learning about electricity never looked so fun!

Playing around with computer graphics

Daddy and Caleb on the trampoline

teaming up to build a tower

Learning about clouds and the water cycle with Daddy

My favorite exhibit....watching my sweet boy roaming around in

his first pair of Levi Jeans, ridiculously cute! (thanks Aunt Sari!)

optical illusion experiment

climber boy...he could have done this all day

Fun at the Splash Zone

If he could have climbed into the table, he would have! He loved the water!

settling in with movie theatre treats to watch a documentary on dolphins. Surprisingly, Caleb

lasted almost the entire 45 minutes!

It was the perfect way to spend a cold day. Lots of learning, lots of laughter, lots of family fun! Hopefully our last "indoor" weekend though. We are ready to be outside! Come on, Spring!

Introducing the Next Mary Lou Retton

2011-03-31T13:58:00.000-07:00

A decade from now, my sweet girls face may just be on a box of Wheatie's in your local grocery store. I'm just sayin'. Okay, so I may be a little presumptuous seeing as though last night was her first official class, but I personally think the girl has got raw, natural talent. I do realize that I am a bit biased, but I have some pretty persuasive videos below.

Anyone who has a 4 year old knows that they are in a constant state of motion. This is the case with Mackenzie, and her "motion" typically consists of twirling, spinning, cartwheeling, somersaulting, attempting to stand on her head, and even flipping (as in, in the air, with no part of her body touching the ground...very concerning). Because of these reasons, along with the fact that we would like to prevent her from wearing a cast, neck brace, or helmet before Summer, we enrolled her in a Wednesday evening class with our good friend's son, Antonio. The two have taken several soccer classes together over the years, and have been friends since they were just weeks old. Now they are little tumblers, and so stinkin' precious! Here are pics and videos from last nights class.

showing off her new leopard print leotard, hysterical!

warming up with some stretches`

huddlin' up

showing off her back bend

working on her bar routine

My favorite video from the night. Proof that practice makes perfect! So proud of my tenacious girl!

vaulting

uneven bar practice

somersaulting down the wedge

Is it just me, or are the similarities quite remarkable?

Spring

2011-03-30T07:45:00.000-07:00

Can't believe Spring break has come and gone. Last Monday marked the first, official day of Spring. Unbelievably, it actually felt like it, it was in the hight 60's! That rarely happens here in Ohio! Last week was also Mackenie's preschools spring break, so we tried to fill the week full of fun activities. It was so nice not to have to rush around trying to get all 3 of us ready and out the door for drop off. To celebrate, we headed to the Zoo on Monday, and were literally there when they opened. It was the perfect day! The weather could not have been better! Mackenzie was in "big sister mode" and as we approached each animal, she would say "Look Caleb, this is a ____________" And then she would tell him fun facts about that particular animal. It was so precious to observe, and I was so impressed with all of animal knowledge! After 4 hours of fun we headed home and ALL 3 of us took a nap....did I mention what a fabulous day it was?

What was NOT fabulous, was having to take Mackenzie in for a rapid step test that tested positive that very next day,on Tuesday. However, thanks to some fast working antibiotics, she was feeling much better the next evening.

Wednesday, we made a quick trip to the local library to check out some books and videos, since we had to cancel our playdate with my friend Michelle and her 3 boys. After checking out a small mountain of books and videos, we met Jeremy for a quick lunch. It was so fun to get to see Daddy in the middle of the day, and definitely made the day go faster!

Thursday, we bundled up and headed to the park for some fresh air. It was pretty chilly, but we were in definite need of a change of scenery, and a little outside time did just the trick.

We also squeezed in haircuts. This marked Caleb's 5th haircut. I think Kenzie was about 2 by the time she had her 5th haircut. Who knew boys were so high maitnence?

before

after

To end the week, the kids and I headed to an indoor playground. It's a great place to go to let the kids run around and burn some energy. Caleb was obsessed with playing basketball and was right in there with the big kids. He had no idea that everyone else playing was a good foot or two taller.

All in all, it was a great "break" from our regular routine. Although, I ain't gonna lie. . . my college days of going to Panama City on Spring break were a lot more exciting. Funny how my definition of "break" has changed over the years! A decade ago, spring break consisted of staying up late, sleeping in late, and laying on the beach with no plan whatsoever. Present day, it's not setting the alarm to squeeze in a shower before rushing off to preschool, eating dinner an hour later b/c there's no school the next day, and switching over my kids closets. Yeah, laying on the beach was much more exciting, but I wouldn't trade it for the world (well, that might be a stretch:)

Now if only that wonderful Spring weather would return from last week!

Happy St Patrick's Day!

2011-03-17T19:21:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, Jeremy took Kenzie on a daddy/daughter date to Dublin's St. Patrick's day parade. Actually, it was a Daddy-Double date. Our good friend Greg and his son, Joshua joined them and enjoyed their own father/son day. They started off the morning going to the Dublin Lion's Club Pancake and Sausage Breakfast, and once they stuffed themselves full of breakfast, they grabbed some front row seats to the parade. The kids LOVED the floats, meeting some of the parade characters, spending time with each other and their daddy's, and of course the candy! Jeremy cherished this 1-on-1 time with Mackenzie, as did she. To say she was beaming when they returned home is the understatement of the year!

Pancake Breakfast!

Crazy Little Leprechans

Parade pals

We started the official morning of St. Patty's day off with our green outfits, of course. Mackenzie got a good laugh out of waking Daddy up with a pinch, b/c his pj's were not green. After getting ready, we headed with Nana to Great-Grandma Monty's to spend the morning with her. We enjoyed some playtime at her retirement village before heading out for brunch. We had such a great visit, and I know it was the highlight of Monty's week, and definitely ours! I am so grateful that my children are able to know their great-grandmother, and spend this precious time with her! From there we headed home to put Caleb down for a nap, and Kenz and I enjoyed the beautiful weather outside. Some of our old neighbor's headed over for an afternoon playdate shortly thereafter, and left before dinner. The kids have all really missed each other, and I so enjoyed catching up with my dear friend, Krista. It was a fabolous day, surrounded by family and friends!

playing ball with great-grandma Monty

block building buddies

St. Patty's day pals

okay, does Caleb look like he's about 2 in this picture? Not cool!

happy st. patty's day!

Firsts. . .

2011-02-28T14:25:00.000-08:00

We are experiencing a lot of firsts these days. It seems like everyday Caleb is surprising us with something new. I love watching him learn new things, and wish I could have the same patience and tenacity that he has! We are so proud of you, sweet boy! Here are some of your "firsts" that we happened to catch on camera. . .

first chore

first kiss

first piano recital

1st best friend

1st bday cake

1st winter walk

1st time clapping

1st bday party

1st (and last) diaper change by big sister

1st time to return to hosptial since his own birth

1st time drinking and driving

1st "favorite" toy, thank you Limburg family!

1st time eating at "big" table

1st time to have control of the remote

and lastly, first one-on-one game!

Looking forward to many more firsts! Love you buddy!

4 X 4

2011-02-28T07:53:00.000-08:00

I was recently tagged in a questionnaire game. I struggle to keep this blog updated at times, much less complete a forward of questions. However, I couldn't disappoint one of my favorite bloggers Dawn. So, here is a little insight you may or may not want to know about me. :)

01. Four Places I Go

1.Tim Horton's (yes, I have totally failed one of my New Year's resolution to give up my iced capps, but to my defense someone in our family has been sick for a solid month, and Mama needs some caffeine:)
2.Giant Eagle (although I go grocery shopping once a week, I find myself constantly running in for things I forgot).
3.My parents house (Nana is currently at home recovering from knee replacement surgery, so we are enjoying as much time with her as possible, before she returns to work).
4.Preschool

02. Four Favorite Smells

1.A freshly bathed baby/child
2.Suntan lotion
3.Food cooking on the grill
4.T-shrits with my hubby's scent

03. Four Favorite Movies/Shows

1.Modern Family (hands down the most hysterical show on tv these days. I don't think there has been a single episode Jeremy and I haven't quoted the next day).
2.Parenthood
3.Pretty much any movie with Julia Roberts or Meg Ryan
4.Cast Away

04. Four Recommendations

1.Give your children what they need, not what they want (I have to remind myself of this one daily:)
2.Allowing time away for yourself and as a couple makes for a healthy and happy family(I am blessed to have a hubby who encourages me to give myself this break, but somehow I still seem to feel guilty, but I'm working on it!)
3.Be the change you want to see in the World.
4.Enjoy where you are in life right now, regardless of how hard it may be or how much easier you think it will be in the future. One day you will look back on this time, and wish you had more of it.

This is a game of tag so now I'm tagging...

1. Holly
2. Amy
3. Ashlee
4. Whitney
And there you have it, my very first forwarded post complete! :)