Aidan - Canon - Quinn

Big boy Canon...

2012-02-01T12:52:00.000-08:00

It seems like we are hitting tons of milestones with Canon, he learned to ride his bike. Learned to tie his shoes and

Got a cool haircut!

Lost his first tooth (WHAT!!! This is all going way too fast for me!) He took a self portrait, how cute is that?

And started Karate class. He is VERY focused in class and if I try to be the mom who waves and smiles at him, he just nods. Too cool and too focused for waving mom! He's such a little man!

It will be kindergarten and then college! I'm going to cry now :)

Magnatiles

2012-02-01T12:46:00.000-08:00

We headed to the children's museum one afternoon and found a new (well new to us) toy there. They were called magna tiles and the kiddos LOVED them. They built there for 30 minutes and would have stayed longer if I didn't scoot them on to the next area. They maybe on the wish list next Christmas!!!

Crazy warm days.....a trip to the zoo

2012-02-01T12:07:00.000-08:00

We have had such warm days (believe me, I am NOT complaining at all) that we've found ourselves at the zoo and the playground, in January! It's been so much fun. We have started bringing our binoculars and Quinn brings here camera too and we take pictures of ALL the animals.

Canon's new favorite is the Rhino

Picnic!

At the park, looking out for our friends coming to meet us....

Today, I actually saw some daffodils starting to bloom. I hope February just decides to be warm all month!

Two Wheels!

2012-02-01T12:01:00.000-08:00

He's growing up way too fast. We bought one of the bikes with no pedals so he and Quinn could get their balance right. Canon rode on it once, went and got his bike and has been riding ever since.....the thing works!!!! hahaha He was so proud and wanted to make sure I was getting video so everyone could see!

Missing our cousins.....

2012-02-01T11:59:00.000-08:00

We had the best visit with Chris, Ashley, Addie, and Brody over Christmas. We are so thankful they made the crazy long trip here and back! The girls were SO cute together and California and Tennessee need to be much closer so they can grow up together! Miss you guys!

Manicures!!!!!

At the park (can they make a swing like this for my size?)

Quinn pushing Addie, they switched and took turns, like I said SWEET GIRLS!

Quinn loved holding Brody, she can't quite get the concept that he's a boy, she called him "her" all the time and then "that baby" :)

PEEK A BOO!!!!! More like high pitched squeals....the kind only girls know how to do!

Yesterday, Quinn asked if Addie could come over.....oh how we wish!

Just being silly......

2012-02-01T11:54:00.001-08:00

Ho Ho HO!!!

2012-01-11T11:33:00.001-08:00

Todd, Canon, a camera, and some appearances from Quinn........hilarious!

Christmas Morning

2012-01-11T11:32:00.001-08:00

We had a great and quiet morning, the kiddos woke up about 7:00 and we got to opening. They enjoyed many toys and clothes and games and even got lessons (ballet, karate, and golf) from Nina and Pots. The gifts that keep giving. We thank all of you who sent your gifts all this way and know you are loved and they had a blast!

A kindle!!!! (thanks g-paw, he loves it!)

A box of clothes from G.G. and G.G., she was in heaven!

Reading the note from santa

golf shoes from G. G. and G.G. will go perfectly with the lessons from Nina and Pots!

G. Paw, this camera is a hit, I even catch the boys making videos on it and that's huge because it's PINK!

They all got Tom's from Aunt Ashley and Uncle Chris.....Quinn's are pink and sparkly!

Urban outfitters never fails me for funny gifts for Todd, these were the best!

That night we had Aunt Stacey, Uncle Mike, Great Grandmother, Granny and Will, and Nina and Pots with more presents and some yummy soup (well I made it so it was okay!) and Jesus' Birthday cupcakes. It was a great Christmas and the kiddos are already counting down for next year!

Christmas Eve Night

2012-01-11T11:31:00.001-08:00

Christmas Eve we spent a lovely evening at our new church, which we all love, and then a meal at Carrabba's (we tried to have pizza, but all the pizza places were closed, so we never pass up a chance to eat Carrabba's!) And then we went home to open up Mymom's gift box she sent. It made us all giggle, all the presents started with the letter "P" We then nestled in our new pj's and watched a movie and got to bed early! A Perfectly Pleasant Evening....

Quinn fell asleep in the car on the way home from dinner, I kept asking her if she wanted to open presents, she would nod, but not open her eyes.....and she was snoring.....LOUDLY!

But finally the ripping of paper woke her up and she was definitely into it!

RACK

2011-12-16T14:16:00.000-08:00

My intention wasn't ever to post about this ( I wanted to enjoy it and not stress about pictures and wording, etc...), but as I was reflecting on how much fun we had doing this, I decided maybe others would like to do it too. This December we had 2 advent calendars.....One with candy that simply counted the days down sweetly and the other was our RACK calendar which helped us count down the days thoughtfully and purposefully. Random Acts of Christmas Kindness. The RACK Calendar had 25 days of Random Acts of.....you guessed it...Kindness. We also had a bible verse to go along with each day. I made it all out of very simple post it notes and magnets and it hung on our fridge

Simply put I wanted the kids to focus more on the gift of baby Jesus, the greatest gift, this year and every day!!! We so got to do that and it was awesome. They were so excited to wake up everyday to see what we were going to do for someone and so were we! We had to get creative some days and I don't have pictures but for a few, but here they are. It was a blessing for us and I hope it may be for you too. There really is no greater joy than giving!

We volunteered at a water table at the St. Jude marathon

Made treat for the police officers (also brought donuts one morning to our firefighters)

Started a collection of coins for Heifer International ( we bought a flock of chicks)

Put coins on vending machines....

If you are wanting other ideas we also brought hot chocolates to our crossing guards on a snowy morning, we made bird feeders (birds need kindness too), volunteered at the animal shelter, brought treats and food to the animal shelter, donated food to the local food bank, wrote notes to Uncle Bryce (at basic training for the Air Force), took treats to teachers and neighbors, cleaned out our old toys and books and donated them to goodwill and our local library, and paid for someones Christmas gift shipping....and others (it's been a while) We hope to keep up the random acts of kindness throughout the year and to always be on the lookout to help others.

Santa

2011-12-16T14:05:00.001-08:00

Christmas Early

2011-12-16T14:03:00.000-08:00

I must have been good this year because I got my very own hot yoga room....... and a new way to get my bakerella on......
my hubby is so good to me!

Christmas Parties

2011-12-16T13:36:00.000-08:00

I was able to go to Aidan's Minute to Win It themed Christmas party. It was tons of fun and the kids were really good at the games! It was pajama day too!

And I also got to attend Quinn's Party. I was game mom so too busy to get many pictures :)
We are ready for Christmas!

Parade

2011-12-16T13:34:00.000-08:00

We had a great time at the Germantown Christmas Parade. The kids came home with big smiles and pockets full of candy!

I Say It

2011-12-16T13:32:00.000-08:00

All the reason for celebrating Christmas in just one short week, Quinn (and Canon) has learned in a simple and magnificent verse.

Isaiah 9:6

6 For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Mighty Quinn(Quinn the Eskimo)

2011-12-16T13:29:00.000-08:00

We just learned the lyrics to Mighty Quinn (Quinn the Eskimo) thanks to one of Quinn's friends dads. He sings it everytime he hears her name and Quinn is now in love with the song. Pretty cute!

5.5

2011-12-16T13:27:00.000-08:00

Our sweet Canon celebrated his 5 and a half birthday at school. They are celebrating all the summer birthdays. When I asked him what treat he wanted to bring it was of course, dinosaurs. He is officially obsessed with Dino Dan and even wants us to call him Dino Dan! He knows so much about them it's crazy. We had some fun with shortbread cookies (in my new fancy mixer) and then made royal icing and had a blast decorating! The kiddos loved them, especially Canon, I mean Dino Dan! Crazy to think he will be 6 and starting kindergarten before we know it!

Suzy Snowflake

2011-12-16T07:58:00.000-08:00

Quinn finished up her session of dance and got to do a mini recital for us. Too precious!

Piano

2011-12-16T07:52:00.000-08:00

Aidan had his third recital. He played some Christmas songs and a Minuet. He is really doing well and we even got to be the choir for his Christmas songs. It was awesome. We are so proud of his dedication to practicing and the hard work pays off.

Our piano teacher asked Canon to start doing "mini" lessons before Aidan's lesson. He is doing great and enjoying himself!

Thanksgiving

2011-12-16T07:39:00.000-08:00

I was lucky enough to be at Canon's Thanksgiving party. Part of the great thing about our neighborhood and schools is that the parents are overly involved, so we can't attend everything. It's a great problem to have! Here is my little Native American!

We watched Charlie Brown's Thanksgiving!

We danced and sang some

We had popcorn, just like Charlie Brown

Quinn made pilgrim hat treats for her class...

It was a Happy Thanksgiving!

That's so Random

2011-12-16T07:22:00.001-08:00

Life is full of fun around our house!

Quinn cut her own bangs, right at her cow lick, ugh....she wasn't happy, neither were we, lol!

On the ride home from Florida, Quinn turned into a vampire

Quinn has quite the fashion sense....we went to Target and this is what she insisted on wearing!

We played with our friends!

Aidan was in a Wii contest at the Dogwood book fair

We met up with Todd's cousin and kiddos, Aunt and Uncle, and Granny and Will in Nashville

We had a beautiful and long fall

We went to the Children's Museum

We went to Pink Palace for "The Light Before Chrismtmas" IMAX movie

We discovered instagram

I have been going to Bikram Yoga and tried my first green juice....it was...........interesting

We still like the instagram

Still do

Yes, this never gets old

We went to the library and read in the igloo...made of milk jugs

and took more pictures

acted silly

tried to keep warm

all kinds of super fun randomness!

Homely

2011-12-16T07:15:00.001-08:00

Canon's class has a snack each week to emphasize their letter of the week...I was H snack mom and went a little crazy. We made Happy Hamburger meals....and you can't have a hamburger meal without fries???? These are sugar cookies...

The hamburgers are brownies, cupcake buns, and icing lettuce, ketchup, and mustard...

Todd was so sweet to print out "H" liners for our hamburger meal baskets

For Quinn's class we made Pilgrim hats

She enjoys chocolate

And I've been sewing lately too....here is one of her Christmas shirts and a quick skirt. Todd calls me "homely" I think he means it in the nicest way.... :-)

Fall Break

2011-12-16T07:01:00.001-08:00

At the last minute we decided to go to Florida for fall break. The kiddos got a whole week off (who ever heard of fall break?) Todd and I booked a super deal on a 4 day cruise. We drove (15 hours) to Cocoa Beach, visited with G Pa(why do we never take pictures dad?)...dropped off the kiddos with Mymom, and boarded the cruise ship. The kiddos had a blast! They went to Universal, the beach, putt putt, ice cream shop, dunkin donuts, shopped for halloween costumes, and a tons of other stuff that I can't even remember!!!! They kept them busy. Todd and I relaxed, played bingo (man, we sound old!), napped (ummm, it's been years since I've had a nap), and just enjoyed each other. We had a great time and when we got back we had a day to visit with everyone before we sadly loaded the mini van back up for the long ride home. It was a great vacation and we all had a blast!

Quinn loved all of mymom's beautiful necklaces!

Getting ready to leave for the Bahamas!

In Nassau, we went on a door hunt, this was our favorite!

Yeah Mymom!

Me, my mom, and 2 gorgeous sisters!

Our fam(don't mind Aidan's silly face, it's his new thing to do in pictures, haha)

They built this sandcastle the day before we came back, when we got back we walked up to the beach and it was still there!!!! They were so proud.

We miss you all Florida fam!

Halloween

2011-11-17T12:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Halloween...I had to fit this post in before Thanksgiving! Every year my mom "Mymom" buys the kiddos costumes. Well this year we were extra lucky because they got to go with her to pick them out. We went to Florida for fall break and they spent a week with "Mymom" while Todd and I went on a cruise!!! They had so much fun! So they picked out their costumes.

On the cruise, Todd and I were trying to guess what they would pick. We KNEW 100% Aidan would be a Ninja....and......we were absolutely right!

Canon, we weren't sure if he would just follow in Aidan's footsteps or not, but we thought a Super Hero of sorts. We were semi-surprised at his Dark(yes, I know it's Darth) Vader choice. He explained....he came with a red light saver(yes, I know it's saber!)

And then there is Quinn, our bohemian child, who changes clothes 10 times a day....wants to match her mood for the moment (she totally makes me smile). She was our wild card....we were pretty sure a Princess would be in the running. Little did we know that she would find...........(wait for it, wait for it) A PRINCESS ELMO costume. Really? Who knew they made those? Only Quinner could pull this one off! She was the cutest Princess Elmo I ever saw! She is a smooth talker too, she talked "Mymom" into a matching bucket of course! HA!

The kiddos had the best time trick or treating. Canon was so excited, he would have run the neighborhood all night! Quinn quickly filled up her Elmo bucket and we headed home with WAY too much candy. It was a blast. Thanks again Mymom, for a great vacation and great costumes!!!

A Hayride with Canon

2011-11-01T13:13:00.001-07:00

Canon is in 5T, and he loves it! He has a sweet class and has become very fond of one little girl in particular. She is a sweetheart and she can keep up with Canon(he admires her spunk!) They are very funny to watch together. Canon's school has limited opportunities for the parents to come up, so he was so excited that we got to come for the hayride. Here's his class before they loaded up."Bye mom!"Then it was pumpkin picking time.....so handsome!He got a "medium" oneHim and his friend....pumpkin heads He was almost embarassed enough to not take the picture with her, but I think he wanted it too badly. How cute are they? Canon's first crush...and yes it's mutual!!!

The key to soccer is....the tongue

2011-11-01T13:06:00.001-07:00

Canon has played a fabulous season of soccer. He is now out of "little kickers" where it was mostly just learning and fun, now it's practice and games...and still lots of fun. He is really good! I'm not just saying that becasue he's ours. He's the tiniest one out there, but goes like no other. He is so much fun to watch!

Pre-game set up for Quinn and Aidan

Once the game begins, Canon gets his game face on.....

and then it happens....the tongue comes out
still out...good kick buddy!

Go number 8!

is he serious or what....can still see that tongue :-)

side view of the tongue

ball isn't even close, yet the tongue is out....so funny!

and still out...

had to put it in for a second, get it wet again......haha

i love my little man's intensity!

the girl was trying to block the tongue, but she failed.....his tongue will win!

we can't be sure in this picture, but i am almost positive it's out

I think this was the best of all.......so cute!(where is the ball?)

sticking out in his cheek.....it cannot be tamed We won....thanks in part to Canon's tongue! We are looking forward to his last game next Saturday....

You cannot Skip the Dance Class (said like Gru)

2011-11-01T12:56:00.000-07:00

I know, way too many pictures, but how cute is our little dancer? She has been hauled to soccer, baseball, golf, piano lessons, etc... and finally it's her turn. Quinn is in her second session of dance. It is an hour long lesson and she does 30 minutes of tap and 30 minutes of ballet. She is SO cute and pays attention so well. It's really fun to see her with a bunch of other little girls....she sometimes just stops and watches them...to take in the girlie. We love our Friday morning dance classes!

Her teacher is pretty strict and so they aren't supposed to wave at us throught the glass, I LOVE that Quinn found a way to say "hi mom" without waving....nothing like a chessy grin...melts my heart!

First Day of School...Preschool

2011-09-01T12:02:00.000-07:00

Well we are all in our back to school routines now. Canon and Quinn had their first day of preschool last week and start their regular schedule this week. I had to get a few pictures before dropping them off at school. Quinn is so funny, I crouched down to get on her level and she immediately copied me and crouched down too. Such a cutie!And Mr. Canon is a jokester......he just had to get a picture like this....so funny! He keeps us laughing all the time. Unprompted, they said don't we need some together? They are well-trained!She loves her brother, look at that adoration in her eyes....so sweet!He must have squeezed to tight, the adoration turned to attitude quickly, haha!Wink at mommy before you go.......
They both love school and have a great time, the best part of the day for me was going to pick them up though!

First day of fourth grade

2011-08-31T11:15:00.000-07:00

We aren't old enough to have a fourth grader....this awesome kid morphed into our lives as a grown child...we are still in our early 20's! HA......Really we are old and Aidan is in fourth grade and loving it (of course). He is having the best time in fourth grade and feels so grown up, they are switching classes and even have lockers!!!! He's on the safety patrol...I always wanted to be on the safety patrol!Not only is he responsible and smart.....he's good looking!Jumping for joy for the first day of school!Until he had to put on his backpack that weighed 5, 782 pounds......he was not so jumpy anymore
He had a great first day of school and has been having fun everyday since. He has a true love for science and math, he amazes me with his knowledge already. I love that he is having a blast at school, but sure do miss having him around all day.

End of Summer....Friends

2011-08-31T11:14:00.000-07:00

A good way to end the summer, pictures and lunch with friends! These are 5 sweet kiddos!

Our herd

2011-08-31T10:52:00.000-07:00

In July, yes, I'm that far behind, we raided our craft boxes and invited the neighbors to dress like cows......What does the cow say Canon?Mom, this is so uncool...well kind of fun too!It took a lot of work, but eventually we looked like cows....And the reward for all that hard work, FREE Chik-fil-A!YUMM-O!
We couldn't leave without a picture with the cow......
A fun way to spend to hot summer day!

Tin and Aluminum-10 year anniversary!

2011-07-01T07:21:00.000-07:00

Canon is 5

2011-07-01T07:18:00.001-07:00

We traveled home all day on the 10th and I mean ALL DAY. We got home very late that evening and crashed. When we woke up it was Canon's real birthday. We were all a little sleepy ...and hung out in our pj's for a while.We managed to have a balloon and some presents for him despite not being home for a week!Mymom and g-pa sent the best presents!So, we have always made the kids b-day cakes, but we just couldn't make it happen. We put 5 cupcakes on a plate and Todd got the great idea for relighting candles. It was fun! Happy Birthday sweet boy!

California Adventures

2011-07-01T07:14:00.001-07:00

I have to say I think California Adventures was my favorite. It wasn't overly crowded, it had fun rides (California Soaring was my favorite, with the Buzz Lightyear ride a close second), and the night show, the world of color....beyond words amazing! The boys went to California Soaring and Ashley and I rode with the girls in the Bug's Life area. Warning: Cuteness overload may occurPoor Ashley, we had a really fun evening the night before at the Cheesecake Factory. She ended up with a bug and just needed a nap to keep going. She laid down right next to the roller coaster while we rode Buzz Lightyear. She was refreshed and kept up with us the whole day...such a trooper!Me and my girl, waiting for Buzz rideBrody and ChrisThe silly face seems to upset Brody....too funny!Waiting for Buzz, got our glasses ready!Cousins, having a blast!

It was an amazing trip with amazing people! We love you and miss you tons Blakes!

This is Hollywood...land of dreams

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

We decided (very wise Aunt Ashley) to break up the Disney 2 days with a day trip to Hollywood and Rodeo Drive. Chris and Ashley know everyone and have all the hook ups, so they drove down in a 15 passenger white van. We were so cool driving around Hollywood in it. People couldn't stop trying to see who was in it! We are in front of the Hollywood sign here, pretend like you can see it!Oh Daddy is so funny!
We went to Grauman's Chinese Theater

The happiest place on earth.....

2011-07-01T07:04:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday at the happiest place on earth! We went to Disney land on the second full day in California and got Canon hooked up with a Birthday button. When the staff on site see it they say Happy Birthday Canon! It was awesome all day he was inundated with birthday wishes!We had just walked into the gates and decided to get a group shot! I may be biased but these are the cutest 5 kids I have ever layed eyes on. Uncle Chris...it's all about Canon...If the Dumbo ride doesn't represent Disney, I don't know what does! Aunt Ashley with CanonGive them a few years, this is what they will be doing! Scary to think:-)And we all got some sweet Brody time through out the day....SO CUTE and SO GOOD!I think he likes me? Those look like Uncle Chris faces to me.
Not a bad place to spend your 5th birthday! We love you sweet boy.

Lego Land

2011-07-01T06:33:00.001-07:00

We ventured to Lego Land the first day. I have to say I was much more impressed than I thought I would be. Aidan was in total heavan and everyone else enjoyed it too. The weather in California was AMAZING. We wore pants and t-shirts and even jackets at times....IN JUNE! It was a great first day of theme parks for us.SHARK ATTACK!!! The girls....this melts my heart and makes me wish that we lived closer!
Daddy and Canon, our fearless rider!

Another sweet girl moment!Canon has no fear he wants to ride every ride, meet every person. He said, Dad take my picture by Darth Vader. Did not even hesitate. He's so cool!
All rides aside, this had to be Canon and Aidan's favorite place. They could build lego cars and race them, like a derby. Canon had a little help (Daddy designed the car) and won every race he entered. He probably raced 50 times! Aidan had fun coming up with SUPER LONG cars thinking he could win the race before he ever started. He has such the imagination.
Funny picture! We all went to vegas last March and stayed at the Excalibur, Broday was born in December...you do the math! The whole strip was done in LEGOS!Aidan got his Lego License and was a very attentive and rule abiding driver....that's my boy!

More building! The gift shop was amazing and luckily we had to think about what we could bring back in suitcases! We brought an empty one just for that reason!

We're going back to Cali....cali....cali

2011-07-01T06:26:00.000-07:00

As a rule in my family growing up, you had to be 5 to go to Disney. Well, Canon was turning 5 in June, so we planned a trip to Disneyland. (Aidan went to Disney World for his 5th, we think Quinn and Addie will go to Disney France for theirs:-) It was a bonus trip because we got to meet up with Chris and Ashley, Addie and meet Brody for the first time. We had such an amazing time, it's hard to put in words. The kids were all great (5 kids, 4 parents....we were outnumbered!) It is so easy to be with Chris and Ashley, we just get along so well. It was the perfect mix of kid time and adult conversation. Just good fun. The first day there we headed out to dinner and to walk around Downtown Disney. When we came across this backdrop, we had to play!

Happy Birthday-Father's Day Daddy!

2011-07-01T06:22:00.001-07:00

To the man whom I've shared so much with....ups and downs, I love this guy!

Mom's Day

2011-07-01T06:02:00.000-07:00

There is nothing more rewarding than being a mom to Aidan, Canon, and Quinn.....my favorite book in the whole wide world is The Giving Tree and I feel in a way it's like parenthood. We are the tree and we change our giving to fit their needs as they grow and change; although we may feel wistful for losing certain stages of their lives, the next stage makes us SO HAPPY. I love giving myself to them, but I receive so much more from them than they could ever know.

Spring Program

2011-07-01T05:39:00.000-07:00

Canon and Quinn put on an amazing Spring Program at school this year. They LOVE their music teacher and after hearing them singing the songs for a semester it was fun to watch them perform.....and they are both great little performers!

Before we went in I asked Canon and Quinn to stand together for a sweet brother sister picture....Canon laughed at me....

Then he gave in and hugged his sister....isn't he sweet?

A little tighter....is that hug becoming a head lock?

Umm, yes, yes it is.....poor Quinner! Luckily she had her monkey Q to help her and a few kisses from mommy. Don't worry, I'm sure she got him back for it ;-)

There's Quinn in her brown shirt....

She did EVERY move, I told you she loves to sing!

When Canon came out he spotted us right away, how sweet is that little wave!

He had some mad skills in the dance area, watch out ladies, boy can move!

This cracked me up, they invite all the parents to come up and take pictures, so 8,000 people stand up with their cameras and go and stand right in front of all the kids. They all have these blank smile, not sure where to look faces.....a touch overwhelming. Canon couldn't see me, not sure why, I am OH-SO-TALL...haha and so he just smiled like this to every section of the wall of adults. I was laughing so hard!

Chagganooga-Lookout Mountain

2011-07-01T05:32:00.000-07:00

We headed to Lookout Mountain....

It was St. Patrick's Day and on a pit stop to a restroom, we came across these....who could resist?

Chagganooga-Fishing

2011-07-01T05:25:00.000-07:00

I found a rental house instead of a hotel in Chattanooga. Although it was in the middle of a very long and winding road (we had a Goonies scene in the back seat....2,000 points if you get that one!) it was in a beautiful location. We were right on the river with a long dock and got to enjoy it. The couple who owned the property brought us breakfast every morning in a cute picnic basket, set up a fire pit for us to have smores, and were just so sweet. It was a refreshing change from the hotel scene.

Chagganooga-The Aquarium

2011-07-01T05:19:00.000-07:00

Canon may be 5, but he still says things in his cute little boy way. It makes me smile, because I know he's still my baby! For example he says things like "Last one in is a rockin egg" "Let's play puff puff golf", "When I grow up I want to live in Vegas"(we aren't sure where he got this idea!!!) and for spring break we went to "Live in Chagganooga" for a week. He's a funny guy!

We went to the aquarium which was AWESOME!

Has it been that long?

2011-06-28T11:02:00.000-07:00

Well it's been a while (cough, cough 4 months+) We are still alive! Since my last post Quinn turned 3. Yes, my baby, is 3. We have no more cribs, no more diapers, no more baby! But we have an amazing 3 year old who is ultra girly, has a mind of her own, still lets me rock her, loves to read, LOVES to sing and make up songs, has the funniest faces and expressions, can beat up her brothers while wearing heels, and is just an overall JOY! She constantly has us cracking up. She had a very low key butterfly birthday, just us and a trip to build a bear(where I didn't take any pictures!). She got a monkey and named him Q. It's a good letter ;-)

I saw these on Martha Stewart, so we made them for Quinn to take to school for her birthday treat. Aren't they the cutest!

Canon's Truck

2011-03-08T08:54:00.000-08:00

Canon had transportation week at school and had to bring a picture of a vehicle to school. He decided he wanted a picture of him on Daddy's truck. Daddy was happy to oblige!

Memphis Botanic Gardens

2011-03-08T08:27:00.000-08:00

On an oddly warm February day, I packed up the kids and took them to My Big Backyard at Memphis Botanic Gardens. We always love going and playing and it seems like we discover something new each time we go. It was fun to just be outside after all the cold, we are ready for spring!

First they found a stage and put on a show for me...

This was Quinn's dancing?

Then we played in the music playhouse

And the Eye Spy Playhouse

Got to swing a little bit

And just run and play

And work on our balance

The Party

2011-03-08T08:07:00.000-08:00

Once everyone arrived they all sat down at the laptops and learned how to program their robots.

Canon was right in the midst of it, amazing how easy he caught on! He was helping the robot lady!

Quinn wasn't so sure about all these people and wires, so she hung with Daddy.

Trying out the programming on the robot sumo match mat.

Once they were programmed they went to the bits part, decorating their robots for BATTLE!

This was Aidan's, with all the claws. I have to tell you when I saw the "legos" I was a little unsure where they would even go on the robots, the kids were so creative and came up with some really cool things!

After the were decorated it was time for BATTLE! Todd ran 1 on 1 battles and they had a blast.

It was OUT OF THIS WORLD....bad pun, I know.

Then they ate chik-fil-a and cake

After everyone left, Aidan and Canon enjoyed all the empty space in the house and flew Aidan's new helicopter (Thanks Aunt Ashley and Uncle Chris, he loves it, and so does Todd!)

Happy Birthday Aidan! We love you!

Aidan's B-day Pre-party

2011-03-04T09:55:00.001-08:00

Aidan turned 9 a couple of weeks ago! 9....that's half of 18. He's half-way to....nope I can't finish it, here is our baby's pre-party. We had a bits, bytes, and bots party and it was SO much fun!

The Bits are lego pieces.....

The Bytes are computers to program the robots....

The Bots are...well robots!

Waiting for everyone to arrive....

Daddy's famous cake, LEGOS!

Handsome boy

I found this shirt on Fat Brain Toys and couldn't resist!

Baby it's cold outside

2011-02-10T14:45:00.000-08:00

After playing in the snow all morning, the restlessness set in by afternoon. We broke out the paints and created some masterpieces!

Sledding

2011-02-10T14:40:00.000-08:00

So I convinced the kids to drive up the the school park and sled for a little bit, they haven't wanted to any other of the snows, but now I think I've created some sledders! First trip down, Aidan is so sweet and helpful, he put the kiddos on and watched them go down!LOVE THIS!Quinn lasted 2 or 3 trips, then the sled tipped over, so she went and hung in the warm van and watched tv....smart girl!I hung out there in between trips too, because of this!!!!! 10 degrees? Are you kidding me? But see that 59 down there? I like that!
The boys didn't care, they were having a blast!
And again!They kept going until their cheeks were red and their noses running. We went home and warmed up with hot chocolate!

Snow day number 581

2011-02-10T14:36:00.000-08:00

Ok, maybe an exaggeration, but it feels like it! I really LOVE seeing the snow outside, just wish it could be snowing and 70 degrees....It snowed all afternoon and evening and we got a beautiful covering. I tried to drive to work at 5:30 and saw a couple of accidents and stuck cars, so I turned around and came home to snuggle and watch movies. We got the call early that there would be no school Thursday! Woohoo! A fun day at home with the kiddos.I think it was 7:45 and they were dressed and ready to go!Quinn was the first out the door and immediately making snow balls!Snow angel.....in reverse! Talk about coldDon't let that sweet smile fool you, she was making a snow ball to throw at me. Canon had just declared kids vs. grown ups (I was the only grown up!!!!!)

I'll take an extra day home with all my kiddos any day, the only thing we were missing was Daddy!

PTA Night

2011-02-10T14:31:00.001-08:00

Aidan's 3rd grade class performed at the PTA meeting the other night. We had a blast watching him!He is in the first row all the way to the left

Free Ben and Jerry's!

Cards and kisses

2011-02-10T14:28:00.000-08:00

You may remember this idea from last year, but I loved it so much (and we go to a different school) so we re-used it!Aidan and I found these, so we stuffed them with m & m's and a stickerAnd for teachers gifts we made oreo truffles, shaped them into hershey's kisses, wrapped them in aluminum foil and added a tag (another Bakerella idea....love her!)Quinn was my taste tester!

Want a little cake with that frosting?

2011-02-10T14:26:00.000-08:00

Gigi's cupcakes are always a treat.....I got the kiddos an early Valentine sweet, I think they enjoyed it.

Aidan's cupcake waiting for him when he got home from schoolCanon couldn't wait on Aidan.....he didn't want to get his hands dirty, he said!
Quinn is just like her momma, chocolate makes her smile!
She didn't mind getting her hands (or face) dirty.

YUMMY!

Prodigy?

2011-02-10T14:25:00.000-08:00

Aidan practices piano everyday for about 45 minutes to an hour. Quinn sings the songs, orders him what to do, and even tries to get some practice for herself. Filling out her practice sheet
I think we've got another musician!

Making a Party

2011-02-10T14:24:00.001-08:00

Bits, bytes, and bots will be taking over our house next Saturday to celebrate Aidan's 9th(I just fell over) birthday! Canon and Quinn helped me make Aidan's invitations!

Robot crayons.....Laptop erasers and lego pieces......
We had so much fun making our clue invitations....stay tuned to find out what exactly a bits, bytes, and bots party is!

Technically Savvy

2011-02-10T14:22:00.001-08:00

Quinn is constantly wanting to play the iPhone, iPad, etc.... The scary thing is, she's really good at it! Here is our technically savvy girl playing a mind rivoting game (probably cut the rope!!!!)

And when she convinced me to sleep in Aidan's bed for nap, I peeked in to find her not napping, but playing Aidan's DS........

Yes, I Love Jesus

2011-01-20T09:05:00.000-08:00

Quinn! I get her dressed and fix her hair every morning. About 30 minutes into the day I catch her back in her room changing clothes with her hair out. She has a new ensemble picked out and normally a bow laying there to go with the outfit. Her choices are.....interesting, but she is adamant about it. It cracks me up! I was walking up the stairs to find out what outfit we would be trying to make look presentable this day and heard her singing, so I grabbed my phone. The sweet singing (which is a constant with her) made that outfit and that hair the perfect outfit!

Snow Day

2011-01-20T08:44:00.000-08:00

We had a pretty big snow and the kids had a few days off school. We had so much fun playing in it. I bundled all of us up (we could barely move) and Quinn was fretful...."I don't want to go play in the snow!" So I opened the door for the boys and went to pick her up, she was out the door, knee deep in snow and plopped down to make a snow angel before I knew what was going on! So funny. They are calling for more snow/ice today, so we may be out in it again soon. I love watching the kiddos play in it! Quinn lasted about 30 minutes, but the boys played for about an hour. We all came in to warm up with hot chocolate.....and do laundry! How do people do this everyday?

She looks scared, doesn't she? :-)

The boys, however, were not making snow angels right off the bat. They had other plans and I was the target!

But I asked nicely and they laid down and made a sweet snow angel for me!

Gonna be hard to mow the lawn, sis!

They quickly learned I am not too bad at throwing snowballs so they built a bunker....and used their sister!

Eating snow!

Quinn and I came inside and had a snack and watched the boys through the window.

The boys joined us and we had a hot cup of cocoa and of course, marshmallows!

What a pile of clothes!

Happy New Years!

2011-01-20T08:30:00.000-08:00

New Years Eve we went bowling and skating and had a great time. We came home and all five of us cuddled on the couch and watched New York ring in the new year and we all passed out on the couch before midnight here. It was a perfect evening together.

They were playing some old school music....Quinn was digging it! She's singing...and "snapping"

Roller skating was adventurous....I didn't know they made skates that small!

Look Dad, No Hands!

Christmas Morning

2010-12-28T10:43:00.000-08:00

So excited! We actually slept until about 7:00 which is normal, but they couldn't wait to go downstairs!

This was the first year Quinn really got it.....so sweet!

Todd and Quinn passed out the presents....she was so CUTE!

This one was heavy!

Quinn has never named any of her babies or stuffed animals...they have always been baby, bear, whatever it is. Well, I asked her what her baby's name was and she said, "Karis" We recently went and visited Todd's cousin, Carey, who has a daughter named Karis. It was so cute that she remembered that name and named her baby that.

It's a Pillow...

It's a Pet....

It's a Pillow Pet!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!

Christmas Eve

2010-12-28T07:15:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve morning we went and saw Santa vs. the Snowman Imax at the Pink Palace. We stopped for some Chik-fil-A for lunch. Before we headed out for church that afternoon I took a few pictures in front of the tree.

Our children are natural goof balls! This is the first pose they came up with, all on their own, when I said let me get a picture of all three of you. Each of them gifted in the art of the funny face!

Church was so good! We ran into Chris and Mandi who we hadn't seen in forever and it was so much fun to share the service with them. The whole service was awesome, but when we sang Silent Night by candlelight, I had goosebumps! It's a horrible picture, but if you can imagine thousands of people holding candles and singing about the birth of Jesus, it was amazing!

We went home, changed into our new pajamas and played Just Dance (thanks Mymom!) The kiddos were quick to go to bed, they didn't want Santa to skip our house and have to circle all the way around the world again!

Our sweet sleeping babies....

Cookies for Santa

2010-12-28T07:08:00.001-08:00

After making our goodies, we had to make a few cookies for Santa.

These handsome boys know how to work the camera!!!! Love the head tilts......

Canon's cookies in progress

Aidan's works of art

And then there was Quinn....just add a few sprinkles

until your cookies are completely covered....

I have no idea why her mouth is RED!!!

So much fun!

Goodies

2010-12-27T13:58:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve Eve, we made our goodies for our neighbors. I attempted to make these very cool cannoli like cookies and FAILED, so in a rush attempt to find something easy and yummy I went to the internet. I came across, brace yourselves, Brownie Covered Oreos!!!!! Are you kidding me? We had to make them. We used the mint oreos because "It's chocolate, it's peppermint -- it's delicious!" (10 points if you know where that quote is from) Aidan was my taste tester.....I think they passed his test!

We Wish You Merry Christmas!

2010-12-25T12:41:00.000-08:00

and a Happy New Year!

House Part-ay

2010-12-25T12:06:00.000-08:00

Gingerbread houses that is....well technically graham cracker houses, but whose keeping track? We decided that we needed to have a fun party with Aidan and Canon's friends to celebrate Christmas and it ended up being really fun! I constructed 20 graham cracker gingerbread houses the day before, we loaded up on icing and candy and we had a party in the making. We ended up with 15 kiddos and we had a great time. I sugared them up and sent them home :-) I think it was a win-win situation! The set up......

The little kiddos table

Decorate your own hot chocolate mug station.....

Pre-party pics

Coloring mugs, waiting for all the guests to show up

This is Canon and Cooper (Canon is on the left and Cooper is on the right) They are in school together and they are the CUTEST! They didn't plan to dress the same, but they sure looked super handsome! They were so excited to see each other and were proclaiming that they were "best friends" the whole time. So Sweet!

Quinn has never decorated a gingerbread house before, but turned out to be a PRO!

Canon demonstrated the proper etiquette in gingerbread house making......LICK

AND RUB....

His house.....

Aidan's house.....

The finished products...pretty cute...very sweet!

They decorated in super sonic speed mode, so luckily, it was almost 70 degrees that day! I sent them out in the backyard to run off their energy. What a fun day. Maybe our annual thing....maybe!

Grandma and Grandpa......the Pink Palace

2010-12-23T14:48:00.000-08:00

We went to the Pink Palace as plan B from the sold out play. We ended up having a great time looking around the museum and then headed into the Enchanted Forest. We looked at all the pretty trees and even did a scavenger hunt. Grandma and the kiddos posed in front of one of the trees for me!

Grandpa helping Aidan with the scavenger hunt.

A few pictures outside of the pink palace.....you never know what you will get with 3 kiddos!

Todd took us on an awesome tour of downtown Memphis in the car mostly....it's cold! We did hop out real quick to take a look at the Mighty Mississippi River and of course to get a picture!

Grandma and Grandpa we had a great visit with you both. Thanks so much for coming to visit and for the goodies and presents. We can't until next time!

Grandma and Grandpa.....hanging around the house

2010-12-23T14:25:00.000-08:00

After the train building day we headed to Shelby Farms to see the Starry Nights light display. It was worth the wait in traffic. The lights were really neat and they had themes that were surprising and beautiful. We woke up the next morning with plans to go see a play, but it was sold out (bad planning on my part!) We hung around the house that morning and used all our technology! Grandpa and Grandma hooked up their camera to our tv and showed us a slide show of pictures from there trip to Canada (I want a home on Thousand Islands!!!!) Then Grandpa took some pictures around the house.

Todd and the boys killed me in "cut the rope" It's addictive! I'm horrible at it....

Canon showed "Grandmother" as he kept calling Grandma, how to play on a Leapster.

We all sat and admired the stockings that Grandma has hand crafted each of us. They are the most special part of our Christmas decorating and I can't imagine a mantle without them. I may have to learn how to make them so my grandchildren will have the same amazing stockings.

Todd loves that he was the first person who wasn't a grandchild to get one!

We had fun going out, but just as much fun staying in and enjoying each others company.

The train

2010-12-23T13:30:00.000-08:00

My grandparents came into town last weekend and we had such an amazing visit with them. They had not yet met Quinn as they are snowbirds and we have missed each other several times. It was such a joy to see them and even more fun that the kids warmed right up to them. We had plenty of meals, great conversation, and a lot of fun! The first morning they were here we opened up a train set that has been passed on to our family. My great uncle is convinced that this train he found in an antique shop was the EXACT train that he and my grandfather played with growing up. He bought it, boxed it up, and mailed it from California to my grandfather. We are the only ones with little kiddos now so we gladly inherited it! Grandpa, Grandma, and the kiddos spent the morning setting it up in Canon's room. It was so exciting to watch it run (Grandpa is an engineer and after some sandpaper got the train running like new!) It was a fun way to spend the cold day in together.

My great uncle wrapped each piece in bubble wrap and had it all labeled as to exact locations and uses of the parts.....so we had the fun job of unwrapping all of it. I think Quinn liked this part the best!

After it was all unwrapped we had this....

Time for the set up

I just loved this picture....something about seeing them play together that's so sweet

The first time around

Had to add Christmas presents to the cargo car

Thanks for setting it up Grandpa and Grandma!

Chef Quinn

2010-12-02T08:33:00.000-08:00

This morning Quinn was up and cooking! What a cute little chef!

Not so jolly Old St. Nick

2010-12-02T08:23:00.000-08:00

I heard that Bass Pro Shop (yes, redneck central!) has a great Santa area in Nashville, so I thought why not dress up the kiddos and go see here in Memphis. Wow! It was quite an experience! The Santa was like a machine, getting kids in, on his lap, and out. He didn't even ask them what they wanted!!!! It was kind of funny because even though the kids are excited for Christmas, but they didn't seem to care all that much. They were more into all the games they had...monster trucks, a hunting game, and a bow and arrow game were their favorites. Aidan told me later that God would tell Santa what he wanted because God knows everything!

Quinn was not at all sure about it, quite nervous in fact....

She pouted, but no crying!

I believe this not so jolly old st. nick was giving Todd the stink eye! haha

Oh what fun!

We may have to try this again, somewhere else :-)

America's next top models

2010-12-02T08:14:00.000-08:00

I may be biased, but man, aren't our kids CUTE? Todd is always trying out a new photo gadget/method and often our bedroom becomes the "studio" The kiddos all shower in our bathroom and so they often get asked to pose for daddy once they are snug in their pj's. They oblige, but often get tired of it, luckily, we have 3 models in the house, so no child labor laws are broken!!!!! I love going through cards and finding gems like these. Their faces crack me up, their daddy can always bring out the best in them!

Thanksgiving

2010-12-02T08:05:00.001-08:00

Stacey and Mike were so kind to open their home to all of us this Thanksgiving. We had some great food, great company, and great times! While they were cooking away, the kiddos played outside, collecting berries with Nina. There is so much we are thankful for everyday! Thanks Stacey and Mike!

Thanksgiving Eve

2010-12-02T07:29:00.000-08:00

So we loaded up Wednesday afternoon and headed to Nashville. I had never been to the Grand Ole Opry Hotel and they have just reopened it since the floods. The lights outside were enough for us! It was amazing how covered the trees were out front. We went inside and met up with Beth, Carey, Matthew, Louie, Granny, Will, and all the kiddos! We had a good time wandering around, but wandering it was. The place is huge with lots of steps and ramps and with kiddos, it was definitely an......adventure! We enjoyed spending time with them, as always, and talked the night away with Aunt Beth. It was a great way to celebrate Thanksgiving Eve with great people!

Turkey Shirts and Pops

2010-12-02T07:06:00.001-08:00

I was feeling crafty before Thanksgiving, so I attempted my first applique shirt for Quinn. I just did it on my regular sewing machine, no where near professional, but it did the job! Here she is modeling her Turkey shirt!

I am Canon's room mom this year and the Thanksgiving Celebration had to have some pizazz, or so I thought! These grand ideas of mine are always so well played out in my mind, and then I have to actually follow through!!! I am a huge fan of Bakerella. If you don't know her, your life is lacking.....I think I am Bakerella, but I am NOT Bakerella. I like to imagine that I am though. Quinn and I attempted to make 50 turkey pops (no meat involved, they are cake pops, dipped in chocolate) for Canon's class, all the kids teachers, and for my co-workers. She was such a good helper!

4 hours later, yes FOUR, I had a gaggle of Turkeys. Are they gaggles? Well, I had a bunch. (Had to google it, it's a rafter of Turkeys although gang is acceptable, I knew you were wondering....HA!) Each one painstakingly hand made with candy corns for the tails, an m&m for their face, drawn icing black eyes, a small sprinkle candy orange nose, and a red fall leaf sprinkle for their waddle. Todd encouraged me to get the real camera, but after 4 hours of pretending to be Bakerella I could barely get my phone out!

My rafter of turkey pops ready to go! This is the last time you will ever see these!!!!

Happy Fall!

2010-11-11T08:37:00.000-08:00

Too many fun pictures from a fun trip to a trail! Happy Fall!

Click here to view these pictures larger

School Friends

2010-11-11T08:30:00.000-08:00

Canon and Aidan have both made good friends at school. I go into Aidan's school once a week, at least, to do AR (accelerated reader) and try to eat lunch with Aidan. He always invites his buddy Noah to sit with us and they have made quick friends. Noah is new this year to Dogwood and I am proud of Aidan for making him feel welcome! They get along so well and it's nice to see great friendships developing.

Canon is also making fast friends at preschool. He and Cooper are so funny to me, they are both little, kind of blonde, and just funny little guys. We had Cooper over for a play date and they had a blast! We dressed up like Buzz and Zurg, and when they both wanted to be Buzz, I told them one could be the Spanish Buzz, so Canon ran around speaking "spanish" and dancing like Buzz does! We built rockets and chased and tickled. Good times, good friends!

Last Game for Aidan

2010-11-11T08:24:00.000-08:00

In the van on the way to the game we prepped Aidan, last game, last chance to score a goal, this is your time! No pressure.....but wanted him to try his hardest, he hasn't scored a goal this season. And HE DID!!!!!!!!!! Todd is such a good coach he put all the players who hadn't scored yet this season as forward to try and let them all score and a couple did! We had a great last game, and I didn't bring the camera!!!! bummer....but here are his team pictures, with Coach Todd! So proud of all my boys!

Halloween

2010-11-11T08:15:00.001-08:00

We had a great Halloween, with our traditional party at the neighbors and then trick or treating. Canon and Quinn made it to about 5 houses and were done, so we came home. Daddy and Aidan stayed out a bit longer and brought us home some yummy candy! It was a fun night! Thanks Mymom for the awesome costumes!

Buzz Lightyear

Our "Rincess" (how she says princess)

Astronaut Aidan

Last Game for Canon

2010-11-11T07:48:00.000-08:00

Canon's first soccer season came to an end on Halloween. He had a great time and really did well! They had a great program and Todd and I had so much fun helping out with his cute little team. Go Blue!

Canon has his game face on...

When did he get this big?

Team huddle

Canon

Go!

Quinn had the best "seat" in the house

He was so proud to get his first medal!

At the hop....

2010-11-11T07:21:00.000-08:00

The third graders have a sock hop every year and this year was Aidan's turn! We slicked his hair back, put on his jeans, white shirt, and "letterman jacket" They practiced the dances in PE for several weeks and we got to watch them twist, do the bop, the bunny hop, and the hokey pokey! It was a ton of fun, and he even asked his momma to dance with him :-)

Aidan and Avery, dance partners and good friends..yes just friends, he's in third grade!!!!

Pictures....of us!

2010-11-05T12:06:00.000-07:00

Ashley was so kind to take some family pictures of us downtown before we made an adventure to get greasy burgers and fries! Thanks so much Ashley, we love them!

Click here to view these pictures larger

Children's Museum with Addie

2010-11-05T11:17:00.000-07:00

We had an amazing visit with Chris, Ashley, and Addie! We ventured out several days, ate way too much food (Dyer's burgers :-) and just enjoyed hanging out, talking and watching the kiddos play. They all got along SO well! It was fun to see the cousins together. Addie and Quinn got their girl on, wearing high heels and tu-tus! Monday, the boys had school, so we took the girls to the Childrens Museum, it was a blast! Silly Aunt Ashley....

Silly Uncle Chris....

Silly Girls!!!!

Ribbon Dancing! So much fun....

And then they made a rock video.....

and the continuation of it.....

They are naturals....missing you guys tons!