The Daily Joy of Two Girls and One Boy

Something New

2010-09-04T16:04:00.001-07:00

So I finally bit the bullet and started a different blog. I'll try to update this one upon occasion, but I am so into learning about photography these days that I figured I'd make that the theme of my new blog. So pop on over and check it out. I'm trying new techniques and learning everything I can get my hands on! www.capturinghart.blogspot.com Enjoy! Feel free to comment, I love comments!

Our Vacation Begins...

2010-07-20T21:39:00.000-07:00

We left Seattle on Thursday afternoon and arrived in Coeur D Alene, Idaho around 8 or so. Charlotte asked if we were almost at Grandma's house before we were out of Seattle! We knew then it would be a LONG TRIP. After a refreshing night's sleep (HA. Mac was NOT happy to be away from his familiar crib), we ate a delightful Holiday Inn Express free breakfast and headed to Silverwood theme park. Now we had to make a stop first because I forgot my toothbrush and had to buy one. Fun times brushing my teeth in the car, that was a first!

It was a hot day and us Seattleites are not used to this kind of heat, so we got off to a sluggish start. Once we hit the water park, it was smooth sailing! Fun, fun, fun! We rented a cabana which was ours for the entire day. This includes personal food service, and a shaded place to hang out. A great place for babies to nap.

The water was refreshingly cool...

All in all, it was a fun start to our trip. Be back tomorrow for the next leg of our journey.
Mommy and Baby Boy

Winner!

2010-06-25T22:37:00.000-07:00

Charlotte and Evelyn could hardly contain their excitement...Mommy won a trophy! Well, it wasn't a real trophy, I guess. But it was a large victory for me. At bootcamp we took a fitness test at the beginning and end. I have improved my fitness level by 37%! 37%!!! Unbelievable. Just a month ago I was struggling to do just basic physical tasks. Most improved. That's ME!

Prima Ballerinas

2010-06-25T21:38:00.000-07:00

These beautiful bunnies lit up the stage during their first ballet recital. Of course my little bunnies were the cutest little bunnies...

Fun with my sister

2010-06-25T21:28:00.001-07:00

It was cool and kind of rainy, but a good day for pouring water on the deck, splashing to my heart's content, and then giving my little sister a facial. Good times.

2010-06-18T19:42:00.000-07:00

The girls are snuggled into my bed watching "Caillou" before they go to bed so I just have a couple of quick minutes. It seems like this month has been a blur and I really only remember bits and pieces. I definitely remember boot camp! I have been working my butt off 4 nights a week for the past 3 weeks. One week left, I'll be sad to see it go because it has really flipped a switch for me. I can do this. For so long I have felt like I just couldn't keep up so I was afraid to join a gym or attend fitness type classes. I will definitely move on to some other form of excercise 4-5 times a week from here on out. I've come so far in 3 weeks, I can't wait to see the results after a few months!

On to other topics...Here is what we plan to give Daddy for Father's Day. I don't think he'll check out my blog before then.

Remember that snuggly scene I described a minute ago? The girls watching "Caillou" in my bed? Now it has dissolved into total meltdown. Got to go...

There is such a thing as too much cake!

2010-06-16T22:12:00.000-07:00

While it feels like Mac has always been a part of our lives, it also seems like I just saw that faint pink second line...
Here is a preview of the birthday fun. As I am too tired to write much more tonight, I will be back tomorrow to entertain you with stories of graduations, birthdays, playdates, Grandparent visits and much more. Stay tuned...

Blog Lover

2010-06-09T11:04:00.000-07:00

That's me. I am in love with reading blogs. Blogs of all shapes and sizes. Blogs that are authored by people I actually know in person,and some by those I consider friends, but only have an online friendship with. There are a couple of other categories.
1~ Blogs that are written by people who drive me to jealousy because their lives are seemingly perfect.
2~ Blogs I have found off of the sidebar of other peoples' blogs. Sometimes these people have strikingly similar blogs as the aforementioned people whose lives I covet. Other times, I discover people who are actually a lot like me. Sometimes I find a blog that is incredibly sad, yet inspires me by the authors ability to overcome these sad circumstances.
3~Home decorating/crafty people blogs.
4~Blogs that give step by step photoshop tutorials. (My favorite because some of us idiots out there really want to use Photoshop but are not smart enough to crack the code)
I aspire to write a blog that interests people other than my immediate family, yet can't seem to break out of that "Hi, aren't my kids cute? Look at this new pic!" type of blog. These blogs are actually the type I enjoy reading.
But I? Really want to inspire...

Loving this

2010-06-05T23:47:00.000-07:00

1960's looking edit!

sweetness

2010-06-02T22:34:00.000-07:00

Just having fun messing around with some photo editing programs, don't mind me.

Brother and Sister

2010-05-31T21:58:00.000-07:00

What I love Most About Charlotte

2010-05-31T20:53:00.000-07:00

At our cooperative preschool, it's a tradition to have each parent anonymously jot down a few positive, descriptive words of each child. Our parent advisor puts them together and presents them to us at our end of the year parent party. These were some of the descriptions on Charlotte's:
Loves her Mom.
Really loves her Mom.
Really, Really, Really, loves her Mom.
Of course there were also some other descriptors such as, "quiet" and "creative", but I just had to smile and tear up a little (ok, a lot) when it was being read out loud.
I have put together a little snapshot of my own, of Charlotte at age four.
Funny. This girl can make me laugh.
Artistic. Sometimes I am blown away by her creativity and skill in this area.
She never forgets. Occasionally she will talk about something that happened 2 and a half years ago.
Sensitive and compassionate. Her concern for others is amazing.
Likes to be the boss. Future jobs might include: director of stage and/or screen, CEO, Principal or Teacher. (she says when she grows up she wants to be a Mommy)
Curious. She asks questions that floor me. Often (usually) I don't know the answers and we have to do some research. (Thank God for the internet!)
Oh yeah. She really, really, really, really, loves her Mommy.

The Meaning of Life

2010-05-28T14:18:00.000-07:00

Seriously. No explanation needed.

My Grown Up Girl

2010-05-26T19:09:00.000-07:00

Often I wonder and worry about how to raise compassionate, sensitive, kind children. Then, out of the blue...proof that I am doing something right. I was telling Charlotte about Evelyn's last day of school and how Teacher Gina was crying. Charlotte seemed very concerned and asked why she was crying. I told her that she would miss the kids. With teary eyes, she looked up at me and said, "I'm crying, but I don't know why." I know why. Because she is a compassionate, sensitive, kind girl.

It was Charlotte's last day today. On to pre-k next year. I'm not ready for kindergarten, so this makes me happy:)

Next stop....Three's class!

2010-05-25T21:45:00.000-07:00

Wow! It's that time of year already. Sleeping in. Hours splashing in the wading pool. The sticky smell of sunscreen and the greasy, shiny faces that come with it. Ahhhhh...summer. Afternoons with sticky ice cream fingers and faces as we lay in the cool shade of our front yard. This time last year, we were just preparing to meet baby brother for the first time. He's almost one and another school year has gone by. I need to take note of every detail. I may turn around and find a grinning teenager in a cap and gown looking back at me.

Evelyn's last day of school today. It was a really fun year for her. Thanks for everything teacher Gina! We love you!

Raindrops on Roses and Whiskers on Kittens...

2010-05-08T21:03:00.000-07:00

Here are a few, simple, generally inexpensive, favorite cosmetic items that I must use daily.

CG Smoothers tinted moisturizer. Awesome moisture, enough coverage for those of us who don't actually need it. I've tried other tinted moisturizers, much more expensive ones, and this wins. Hands down.

Aveda Exfoliating Toner. Awwwwww, the feeling of cleanliness! I don't know exactly why, but my face feels dull, tight, and generally uncomfortable until I use this every morning. If I run out, I make sure to run right out to the salon to pick some up. I love it that much. I don't normally love Aveda products. Too naturey smelling. This one is worth trying, especially if you have super dry skin that tends to flake.

One more favorite for today. Don't worry, I'll be back with more favorites. There are so many things I must share with you.

I love Olay facial cleansing cloths! There. The secret's out. I wastefully use a facial cloth every morning and toss it in the trash without thinking of the Earth. I faithfully recycle. Really. I just love the way these make my skin feel. Plus I have a wierd washcloth on the face aversion, so this seems to work for me. If you prefer using a washcloth and cleanser, might I suggest packing them on your next vacation? Quick and easy.

An Old Favorite

2010-05-05T22:55:00.000-07:00

This and That

2010-05-05T22:50:00.000-07:00

Can't get enough of you, baby...

2010-05-05T22:48:00.000-07:00

Oh dear, the way I love this little guy...

Immaturity

2010-05-05T22:45:00.000-07:00

Why on Earth do I think this is so funny? What am I? 8 years old?

Mac, this song is for you!

2010-04-26T13:53:00.000-07:00

I sing this to Mac all the time. Each of our kids have their own special song. This one's for you, Buddy Boy!
Baby Mac
Baby Mac
Mommy loves you to the moon and back
Sweet little baby, sweet little guy
Mommy loves you up to the sky
Baby Mac
Baby Mac
Mommy loves you to the moon and back
(to the tune of twinkle little star)

PS: I love spaghetti. Love, Mac

Just Swingin' With My Dad

2010-04-26T13:12:00.001-07:00

On Growing Up

2010-04-26T13:02:00.000-07:00

I know they will, of course. And oftentimes I find myself thinking that I wish they would grow up because "Won't it be fun to do (insert fun traveling type adventure here) when the kids are much older?" When my house is filled with the chaotic activity that a 17 year old, 16 year old and 13 year old enjoy, I am pretty sure I will think, "Remember when they were 4, 3, and 10 months? What I wouldn't give to have that back..." The truth is, we are never completely happy with the stage we are in and I want to remedy that. Enjoy the headless Polly Pocket dolls that pretty much occupy every inch of space in our house. Don't spend all my time worrying about little Mac's teething woes. He will get over this. He'll have a healthy, non-painful mouthful of teeth one day. That is pretty much a guarantee.
"Remember Charlotte and Evelyn, how you used to love to hear stories about the imaginary Lucy Belle who jumped so high on her bed that she was propelled into the sky and spent her evenings exploring the earth?" The teenage Charlotte and Evelyn will roll their eyes. But I know they will be remembering her and smile. Maybe only on the inside.

This is Pure JOY

2010-04-25T21:25:00.001-07:00

Things they are a-changing

2010-04-25T21:11:00.000-07:00

This blog is cute and everything, but honestly? NOT INTERESTING. I don't know how, and I don't know when, but expect a blog revamp. Graphic design is not my forte, so the simple free template format will still exist. The content and title are the things I'm playing with. Don't worry, it will still involve photos of my darling little sweethearts and include stories of their incredible cuteness, but will also be more personal in nature. It has occured to me to start another, seperate blog, but I really would rather keep it all in the same place. This new blog will revolve around ME a little more. My posts might occasionally be about subjects not involving my children. I am pretty sure most of them will still be child-centered, but I want to explore other avenues as well.
I have so many ideas, can't wait to figure this all out.

February Disneyland Trip

2010-03-05T08:40:00.000-08:00

We took the greatest trip to Disneyland in early February. Charlotte insists we are going back on her birthday and Evelyn is convinced she'll be tall enough to go on the big rides (splash mountain, space mountain, thunder mountain...).

Fun Times in January

2010-03-03T21:11:00.000-08:00

Los Angeles Girl's Weekend!

2010-02-27T20:52:00.001-08:00

Again, this trip actually happened in October, but I definitely need to remember this wonderful weekend. Thanks Lily! Thanks to my PEPS girlfriends, you are the best!

Christmas Card Photo

2010-02-27T20:49:00.000-08:00

Oh yes, it's a little out of order, but I must add this darling photo of my 3 sweet babies. My friend Kristi was kind enough to photoshop this for me to give it an extra special look.

Ballerinas in Training

2010-02-27T20:30:00.000-08:00

Finally! In January, Roseanne let us come and watch rehearsal! Charlotte followed all the rules and Evelyn? Let's just say she was distracted by the audience. Can't wait for the recital in June!

Fresh From the Bath

2010-02-27T20:28:00.000-08:00

I just love these 3!

2010-02-26T14:04:00.000-08:00

I never manage to take pics on Christmas morning, so this is really it.

Getting the house Christmas Ready!

2010-02-26T14:02:00.000-08:00

Early December

2010-02-26T13:59:00.000-08:00

The kids with Lauri, our sweet au pair from Paraguay.

Evelyn really wanted no part of the whole Santa experience.

Mac at about 4 1/2 months

2010-02-26T13:57:00.000-08:00

Halloween Fun

2010-02-26T13:47:00.000-08:00

The girls were "Musketeers". They were going through a "Barbie and the Three Musketeers" Phase. I didn't really mind that they were watching Barbie movies because it was a pretty good message. Girls can be Musketeers too!!!! Baby Mac was a darling little monkey.

Evelyn's 3rd birthday

2010-02-26T13:43:00.001-08:00

Evelyn turned 3 on October 30th, we had friends over for dinner and fun. The next day was Halloween so the whole weekend was one big party for us!

Charlotte turns 4

2010-02-26T13:26:00.000-08:00

Charlotte turned 4 in September and she had a wonderful "Wizard of Oz" party. Dorothy even stopped by to sing "Somewhere over the Rainbow" and play some games!

Stay Tuned For New Blog Posts...

2010-02-25T17:20:00.000-08:00

I promise. For those of you who are sitting on the edge of your seats waiting for a new post, get ready. I was just sitting down to do this, but alas, Mac is awake. I do want to fill you in on the last 8 months. So check back tomorrow...

Mac's first days at home

2009-09-20T22:03:00.000-07:00

Our baby boy

2009-09-20T21:51:00.001-07:00

My blood pressure was up and down during my hospital stay and the headache would not go away, so the decision was made to induce at 35 weeks. The process was started late night on June 15th. I had pretty mild contractions first thing in the morning and they were pretty close together so they didn't have to give me Pitocin at all. Dr. Vu broke my water at 9am and Mac was born at 12:15. It was rough, but quick. He weighed in at 8 lbs, 1 oz and he was only 35 weeks along! His blood sugar dropped and he was jaundiced so he ended up staying in the special care nursery for 6 days. It was so tough, but it seems like a distant memory now!

Introducing Gannon MacGregor (Mac)

2009-09-20T21:44:00.000-07:00

Hospital Baby Shower

2009-09-20T21:38:00.000-07:00

obviously I haven't updated in a long time, so I'll try to work back to the present...

I was admitted to the hospital in mid-June due to high blood pressure and really bad headaches. The girls had to reschedule my shower and they ended up bringing it to me in the hospital.

Thank you so much to my PEPS friends, you are amazing!

34 weeks with Baby Mac

2009-06-08T20:26:00.000-07:00

Happy 40th Anniversary Grandma and Grandpa!

2009-06-08T20:18:00.000-07:00

We spent the weekend at Grandma and Grandpa's house to celebrate their 40th anniversary. It was hot and the girls spent the entire weekend playing outside with Maddie and Bennett and soaking themselves in this fountain.

MMMMMMMMM.....CAKE!!!

Goodbye toddler class

2009-06-08T20:13:00.000-07:00

Evelyn loves to sit on teacher Adele's lap during music time.

Water table play with Taylor, Henry, and Evelyn

dancing with her pals.

Evelyn hanging with Gigi and Henry.

2009-06-08T20:11:00.000-07:00

Some pics from Charlotte's last day at school.

Charlotte

2009-06-08T20:09:00.000-07:00

My sweet little Charlotte

Carkeek park beach day

2009-06-08T20:06:00.001-07:00

Play Set

2009-06-08T20:00:00.001-07:00

We got our new Rainbow play set installed and the girls are loving it!

2009-04-28T17:17:00.000-07:00

Taken last week at 28 weeks.

A peek at baby brother

2009-04-28T17:12:00.000-07:00

Look at this sweet little guy. We can't wait to meet him.

Our February trip to Little Rock (I know, I am blogging way out of order)

2009-04-09T13:53:00.000-07:00

AT the Little Rock Zoo: Charlotte and Ava

A questionable tourist activity we stumbled upon in Hot Springs, AR (birthplace of Bill Clinton. The town, not the petting zoo)

LR waterfront, the girls adore their cousin Gavin

update on baby boy

2009-04-09T10:24:00.000-07:00

Time has been flying and I am now 26 weeks along with baby boy. He'll be in our arms before we know it! Unfortunately, he doesn't have a name yet. Charlotte suggested "Lucifer" (after the cat in Cinderella). We have it narrowed down to a few favorites, now we just need to decide.
Here is the most current photo from about 2 weeks ago.

gymnastics class

2009-04-09T10:17:00.001-07:00

March: Last day of gymanstics class

memory lane

2009-04-04T12:33:00.000-07:00

I found this slideshow I made for Monte for charlotte's first year. Being overly hormonal right now, I got a little emotional and wanted to share.

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

It's a.................................

2009-02-18T13:23:00.000-08:00

BOY!!!! We are thrilled but still trying to come to terms with the fact that there will be a baby boy around the house sometime in July. Charlotte was a little distressed, she really wanted a sister. Now we've just got to break the news that we won't be naming him "Prince Eric"...

New Van

2009-02-18T13:21:00.001-08:00

We finally did it. We figured it might be the best way to function with 3 little ones!

misc. cute pics

2009-02-18T13:14:00.000-08:00

The girls got new toddler sized headphones in preperation for our trip to Little Rock.

This was just cute.

Be My Valentine

2009-02-18T13:12:00.000-08:00

This was Evelyn on Valentine's Day. It really needs no explanation...

2009-02-18T13:10:00.000-08:00

Since becoming very interested in "Mulan", Charlotte wants to ride horses all the time. This is the best we could come up with...

Picnic in February?

2009-02-18T12:34:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago we just happened to have a warm, sunny day. The girls loved this unexpected chance to play outside all afternoon. They even wanted to eat lunch outside.

Beach day

2009-01-28T16:35:00.000-08:00

A couple of weekends ago we spent a Saturday morning at the beach. This little beach is only 10 minutes from our house and it was only the second time we've gone. The girls loved it!

Too Cute!

2009-01-28T16:34:00.000-08:00

16 Weeks!

2009-01-28T11:28:00.000-08:00

Things are moving along quite nicely. I am starting to feel much better most of the time. Mornings are still a bit queasy, but overall, not too bad. I am defintely craving vanilla ice cream with hot fudge. Monte has had to go to the store for me twice to buy hot fudge:) Sometimes I feel like I can't live without it!
The girls are still excited. Evelyn said to me the other day, "Get baby out!" In a mean voice. I replied, "You don't like the baby?" she said, "No. Me baby." Then she wanted me to hold her like a baby. Charlotte is used to me complaining about my various ailments. Whenever I say, "I have a headache" or "my back hurts" she will say, "because of the baby?"e
We get to find out the big news (boy or girl) on February 17th. We can't stand the suspense!

Dancing Girls

2009-01-01T14:06:00.001-08:00

Give them music and they begin to dance!
Charlotte having a dance with Jorja on New Year's Eve

Charlotte with her favorite dance partner, Evelyn. Notice Gigi looking devilish in the background...

Christmas

2009-01-01T14:00:00.000-08:00

I didn't take many photos on Christmas, so here are the only ones we have. I made sure to get a shot of "Prince Eric with the white shirt" so I can tell Charlotte all about it when she gets older!

Finally!

2008-12-30T21:36:00.001-08:00

Charlotte has begun to play Beauty and the Beast instead of Ariel! I am so sick of Ariel that I can't even say. Now she gets to be Belle and Evelyn usually gets to be the Beast. I get to be Gaston. This involves Charlotte walking around holding a book then I am supposed to take her book and toss it in the mud and then tell her she should marry me. She just walks around with a bunch of books all the time. I asked her why and she said, "Because Belle really likes reading books." We also get to clean up the "ballroom" a lot to get ready for Belle and the Beast to dance. I'm so glad I got them the movie for Christmas!

I hope these are the last snow pictures I post this winter...

2008-12-29T22:27:00.000-08:00

Hooray! The snow has finally melted and I couldn't be happier. Sure, it was fun for a day or even two, but I can't stand to be stuck in the house. Monte was able to make it to work every day, which left me here all day for at least a week straight with the girls. Don't get me wrong, I love spending time with them, but I had some serious cabin fever going on. Add morning/all day sickness to the equation and you can imagine how enjoyable it has been.
Our family made it for Christmas and I was never happier to see some people other than the four of us!

Snow? Bring it on!

2008-12-17T11:12:00.001-08:00

the many faces of Evelyn

2008-12-17T11:08:00.000-08:00

Superstar!
Evelyn climbed up on this chair with a mermaid tail, very impressive!

2008-12-17T11:03:00.000-08:00

Monte and I took Charlotte to see the Nutcracker. We went downtown and did some Christmas shopping at Nordstrom and then had a nice lunch, just the 3 of us. Then we headed to the ballet. She only lasted about 30 minutes, but it's a start...

Santa's Favorites

2008-12-17T11:01:00.000-08:00

2008-12-17T10:58:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving at Grandma and Grandpa's house

Yep. It's true...

2008-12-17T10:55:00.000-08:00

Baby #3 due to arrive sometime around July 17th...

A trip to the fire station

2008-11-14T19:03:00.001-08:00

Our PEPS group took a special trip today. We got to go to the Magnolia firehouse and meet the firefighters! Also, we got to sit in the firetrucks and learn all about their gear. It was super fun! Evelyn didn't get to go, because it was only for 3 year olds. Maybe next year!

braids

2008-11-09T16:14:00.001-08:00

Not thick and luxurious, but oh-so-cute!

Someday my prince will come...

2008-11-09T14:30:00.000-08:00

I came in the room and Charlotte said, "I'm touching Prince Eric!!"

Evelyn as Buzz Lightyear

2008-11-09T09:19:00.000-08:00

On Halloween we went to a party with our PEPS friends and the girls would not wear their costumes. Enzo was dressed as Buzz Lightyear, but wanted to take it off. As soon as it came off, Evelyn just had to try it on. This just suits her for some reason, too cute!

Vote for ME!!!

2008-11-04T20:24:00.000-08:00

Trick or Treat

2008-11-02T22:20:00.000-08:00

The girls had no interest in their Mermaid costumes, so they dressed up in their dress up clothes and had a fantastic time trick or treating. Charlotte stopped in the middle of trick or treating and said, "Mom, trick or treating is fun!"

Evelyn's Birthday Bash

2008-10-26T20:32:00.000-07:00

We had such a fantastic time celebrating Evelyn's second birthday with lots of our good friends and family. We even had a musical performer, which the kids absolutely loved. I can't believe our baby E is turning 2. Just yesterday I had 2 babies and now I have a toddler and a preschooler. I have been making a point every day to think, "they will never be this exact age ever again." So I stop and really look and listen to them, hoping I will never forget. Without further ado, the party pictures!

Pumpkins for the little pumpkins

2008-10-12T17:52:00.000-07:00

We spent Saturday at Remlinger Farm. Evelyn acted every bit the 2 year old that she almost is! In spite of that, it was a beautiful fall day and we picked pumpkins and had kettle corn, so it was a pretty good day!

Ariel

2008-10-08T16:16:00.001-07:00

We got the costumes in the mail the other day and Charlotte was quite pleased with herself.

Little Mermaid

2008-10-02T07:45:00.001-07:00

Both of the girls are going to to be Ariel for Halloween. Here is a conversation Charlotte and I had regarding trick or treating:
Me: When you dress up on Halloween you get to go trick or treating. (I explain what
that means)
Charlotte: Which way can I get the candy?
Me: What do you mean?
Charlotte: How do I get the candy?
Me: Just go to the door, knock, and say "trick or treat"
Charlotte: How can I do that with no feet?
Me: Your costume will just look like a mermaid tail, but you can still walk on your feet.
Charlotte: I don't want to, I will swim to get the candy.
Me: There won't be any water.
Charlotte: That's ok, I will just swim on the ground.

We'll see how this plays out come Halloween.....

Family Time

2008-09-29T23:14:00.000-07:00

We took a last minute trip to Spokane to attend a memorial service for Monte's Uncle Arnold. We got a chance to spend time with family and the girls got to play with some cousins that we hardly ever see.

Rolling around on the ground in their finest clothes.

Charlotte enjoyed doing "Barbie Fashion Plates" with her cousin Gabriella.

Just the 4 of us.

Some cuddle time with Grandma

Daddy looking ruggedly handsome with his beard grown while on sabbatical.

Pigtails!

2008-09-29T23:03:00.001-07:00

Evelyn actually sat still long enough for pigtails the other day! Ok, they were a little crooked because I was trying to work fast, but I thought she looked quite adorable. Monte did a double take when he saw her because she is my twin when she has those pigtails in. I don't wear my hair that way, so who knows why, but I do agree. Sometimes I look at her and I feel like I'm looking in a mirror. (A much cuter, smaller, mirror)
Little funny face. I wish she would let me get a decent straight on shot of her!

Lucky in Love (and slot machines)

2008-09-21T17:32:00.000-07:00

Monte and I celebrated our 5th anniversary by spending 2 nights away. We ended up going to the Tulalip resort/spa/casino. We were so surprised at how beautiful the hotel was. It was probably one of the nicer hotels we've ever stayed in. It was great to get some much needed time together. The first night I really scored on the slot machines. I think I made around $1000! The best part was that there is a premium outlet mall right next door to the hotel and I was able to really enjoy our day of shopping. I got myself a few things, but the kids really made out with new clothes from Gap and Gymboree. I got a ton of stuff and didn't even feel guilty about it!
Saturday night I did nothing but lose, it didn't ruin our great time though. I can't wait to do it again.
By the way, the girls did just fine while we were gone. (thanks to Bridget and Grandma)

Evelyn's first day of school

2008-09-18T08:15:00.002-07:00

Such a big girl!

Off to school

2008-09-18T08:15:00.001-07:00

Charlotte's first day of school. Mommy just might be more nervous than Charlotte...

Charlotte is 3!!!

2008-09-18T08:15:00.000-07:00

We had a Saturday morning party planned for Charlotte, but she had a mysterious fever for 4 days so we had to reschedule. Luckily everyone could come on Tuesday the 16th (her actual birthday). She had school that morning as well and we got to celebrate at school with cupcakes too. She was exhausted that night!

It's about time for an update...

2008-08-25T15:35:00.001-07:00

I've been MIA all week, sorry about that! Every now and then, life just has a way of overwhelming you. It's been like that for me this past week or so. Forgive me and hopefully I'll start posting more frequently!
My Mom and Dad were here this weekend and the girls had a fantastic time hanging out with them. Evelyn helped grandpa fix the sink.

Charlotte got her new furniture from Pottery Barn Kids.

Evelyn got her big girl bed. She sleeps in it for naps and has loved it so far!

Grandma and I went to see "Shrek, the musical" at the 5th avenue theatre this weekend. I highly recommend this if it comes to your town! It was hilarious and the sets were breathtaking. A very enjoyable night out!

another little photo shoot

2008-08-15T19:38:00.000-07:00

I just love taking photos of these precious girls!

Little Mommy

2008-08-15T19:35:00.000-07:00

Here is Charlotte putting the "baby" to bed.

Once upon a time...

2008-08-12T16:18:00.000-07:00

Last night I overhead Charlotte telling Evelyn a story. They were getting ready for bed and Charlotte was holding Evelyn in her lap like a baby and telling her this story. "Once upon a time there was a little girl named Evelyn. She was watching a show with Charlotte..." Then E started to squirm and didn't want to be held like a baby anymore. This was the sweetest thing ever. We tell Charlotte stories every night before bed and she can't get enough. She is constantly asking us to tell her stories. "Tell me about when you were a little girl or when Daddy was a little boy"(Grandma G, I don't know any "Daddy as a little boy" stories to share, hopefully you can give me some ideas...). She loves to hear about how, when I was a little girl, I would sneak out of my bed and hide behind a chair and watch tv. My parents would find me, fast asleep behind the chair when they got up to go to bed. I hope I'm not giving her any ideas! She also wants me to constantly tell her about how she grew in my tummy and how when it was time, we went to the hospital, etc. She has to hear the entire story. Or I have to tell her about when Daddy was in Grandma's tummy. You get the picture...
Maybe she will be an author of some great literature someday. Or at least a creative and imaginative girl!

Side By Side

2008-08-09T08:55:00.000-07:00

Sisters are just the sweetest thing. I love watching them play together.

Finally, a way to keep Evelyn contained!!!

2008-08-09T08:46:00.001-07:00

The big kids were burying each other in the sand and Evelyn insisted we bury her. Getting her cleaned up after this beach trip is a whole other story...

Charlotte isn't so sure about this whole situation...

Oh, I how I love the sand!!!

Parade Day

2008-08-03T13:59:00.000-07:00

Every summer we have a Seafair parade in our neighborhood. We watched the parade with our friends and then headed to the park for some fun playtime! The girls especially liked chasing after candy.

Charlotte seems like such a big girl walking to the park with her pals J and E. They've known each other since they were just weeks old.

Is it wrong...

2008-08-02T16:28:00.000-07:00

that I live in Seattle and I don't like Pike Place Market?

Garage Sale

2008-08-02T16:19:00.001-07:00

We took Charlotte to a garage sale a couple of weekends ago and she just couldn't comprehend why kids wanted to sell their toys. We told her it was because the kids got too big and didn't need them anymore. Last week she was in her room with the door closed for a long time. I went to check on her and found her loading almost all of her books and toys into a toy stroller. I asked what she was doing and she told me she was having a garage sale. She then proceded to pick up toys out of her toy box and say, "I'm too big for this one..." and put it in the pile. (Don't mind Charlotte in her underwear).