{our little world}

Lilly's First Birthday Pics...Finally!

2011-10-05T13:53:00.009-05:00

Here's our little Birthday girl! Better late than never, right? She is now 13 mo old (and keeping us on our toes) but I wanted to share some pictures of her day. Mom & I spent all summer planning it - it was something fun & exciting to look forward to, and it ended up being better than I had imagined. We were so happy to have lots of family here to celebrate with us, but missed those who couldn't be here.

Here is the Birthday girl!

With her sweet cousin, Sierra, who loves to give her hugs & kisses!

The girls that made it happen, Aunt Barb, Mommy, Grandma Bonnie, and especially Grandma - I could never have pulled this off without their help! And Jana, too! I don't know how she missed this picture. I think she was busy chasing after the kiddos! :)

There's Aunt Jana!

Finn was totally in his element - he is my party boy and was so excited that this day was finally here!

The details...

Cupcakes from Cupcake a la mode - the best cupcakes in KC! And we did a taste test to make sure! :) I did make Lilly's cake, though! :)

And Cupcake Push-Up Pops for favors, so fun!

Found an amazing cookie lady - beautiful work & they taste as good as they look!

And now time for Lilly's first bite of cake. Finn helped out a little. She really enjoyed the cake, but the ice cream hit the spot!

All clean now, thanks Grandma!

Cupcake sandwiches for the kiddos...

Cousin Neale...

Cousin Rowan...cutie pie!

Having fun on the bounce house with Eleni and the rest of the big kids...

Time for presents! She got some really fun, cute things and loves playing with her new toys!

She had lots of help opening gifts! :)

This is one of my favorite pictures from the whole day!

I still cannot believe that she is one. She is at such a fun stage and we are cherishing every minute. We are so blessed to have her and her big brother in our lives! Hope you enjoyed the pictures & maybe I'll get in the habit of posting a little more often now! :)

Finn & Lilly's Special Day!

2011-01-23T22:11:00.011-06:00

I, the Lord of sea and sky,

I have heard my people cry.

All who dwell in dark and sin,

My hand will save.

Here I am, Lord. Is it I, Lord?

I have heard you calling in the night.

I will go, Lord, if you lead me.

I will hold your people in my heart.

I will break their hearts of stone,

Give them hearts for love alone.

I will speak my words to them.

Whom shall I send?

Here I am, Lord. Is it I, Lord?

I have heard you calling in the night.

I will go, Lord, if you lead me,

I will hold your people in my heart.

It was a very special day for our family today. We had Finn and Lilly baptized in a special baptism ceremony. We didn't know quite what to expect since it wasn't a normal church service, but it was absolutely beautiful! When it was our turn, our family was able to come up with us to watch and take pictures. Finn went first and did great, he was so calm! I am so proud of him! I think he was proud of himself, too, and could feel God's love & spirit with him! He also kind of liked his tie and didn't want to take it off when we got home! ;) Lilly was next...she cried some when she put the water over her head, but otherwise did great. She fell asleep in my arms right afterwards. She looked so pretty in her dress, I hated to take it off of her. She wore my cross necklace that my grandfather gave me when I was a baby, and she has enough hair that I got a bow in! Loved it...I want to buy one in every color now!!! Our house was filled with peace tonight, and I am feeling so thankful for our healthy babies, our amazing church, and our wonderful, loving families! Ryan's family was able to be there with us today, and Grandma & Papa & the rest of our family that couldn't be there - you were missed! Love you all so much!

we LOVE december!

2010-12-15T23:30:00.004-06:00

I've been working on my December Daily album and thought I'd share a few pics! I am so loving this project this year although it's coming along slower than I would like (but better than last year!). This time of year is my absolute favorite, and even more so this year!
We got the Bebe pod out from storage and tried it out the other day! Lilly held herself up pretty well in it, but got tired of it quickly. She has been grabbing at everything lately, and she loves her feet!!! She is trying very hard to roll over and she is almost there! She is such a happy baby (as long as she is with mommy) and so much fun! Love you Lilly-bug!

Finn is all about the candy canes this year. The first one he tasted "burned", but he is acquiring a taste for them rather quickly. I asked him what this one tasted like and he said "it tastes like cherry like rudolph's nose." He wrote his Santa letter today and didn't want any help from mommy. He told me he asked for another candy cane & legos. He told Ryan he asked for peanut brittle. ???? Love this boy!

Love these two!

2010-12-07T22:58:00.003-06:00

Just needed some fresh pics...

My heart is full!!!! We have had some very challenging days lately but we have been having a lot of fun as well! I am so blessed to be a mother to these two! Hope to give more of an update soon, but for now it's off to bed because we have an early morning tomorrow!

p.s. I can't believe Lilly is three months already!!!!

Rainy Days

2010-11-13T23:00:00.002-06:00

The rain has been pouring down here lately, so what have we done? Made cookies & went shopping! Finn & Mommy made yummy pumpkin cookies and they were so easy! And no eggs in the batter means we can eat it!!! It's the first time he's been able to do that and when I asked him if he wanted to lick the beater he just looked at me as if I was joking...then dug in!

Lilly & Mommy had a girls' weekend! We did some shopping and had lots of play, reading, & cuddle time. We got these cute monthly stickers at mommyshop (if you haven't been you need to go - lots of cute stuff!) and even though she is almost 3mo, I wanted to get a picture with the 2mo sticker today. So cute! We had a great time, but will be glad to have our boys back home!

She is such a happy little girl, has started laughing some, and is constantly blowing bubbles! She is a mama's girl and loves to be held! Also loves her playmat, being sung to, her soft blanket, her baths, and her brother! She always turns right towards him when she hears his voice. Not so fond of getting out of the bath and getting dressed!

So thankful to be blessed with these two sweet babies!

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-31T22:35:00.017-05:00

We had such a great Halloween! Finn was pretty pumped about the idea of trick-or-treating and spent the whole month of October looking at his "Halloween magazines", otherwise known as the Oriental Trading & Pottery Barn Kids catalogues! He decided he wanted to be Doc from Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs. Luckily for Mommy, Grandma is a great sewer and offered to make his costume since you cannot find a 7 dwarf costume anywhere! Saturday we carved our pumpkins & roasted pumpkin seeds. They turned out pretty good. I did one batch with salt and one with pumpkin pie spice. Finn even loved them!

We didn't do much for Halloween decorations this year. I have my pumpkins on the mantle that'll stay up until after Thanksgiving, and this little corner.

I made Finn a Halloween treasure tray Sunday morning. I got the idea from a blog and I can't remember where but if I find it I'll list it here. Such a cute idea!!! He had an orange jack-o-lantern, pumpkin seeds, sprinkled donut holes, pumpkin oatmeal, pumpkin french toast cut into pumpkin shapes, Boo Berry cereal, and Pumpkin Juice (milk with orange food coloring).

Grandma & Grandad and the Zarda's came over, we had dinner and then got ready to get some candy! All dressed up and ready to go! His costume was the cutest and he got lots and lots of compliments on it! Thanks again Grandma! I made a beard but he wouldn't even put it on, oh well. He kept the glasses on all night, which surprised me! And isn't Lilly the cutest little bunny rabbit?!!

She just had her 2 month well visit on Friday and she is 11 lbs 7.7 oz, and 24 inches long!!!! Dr. said she is going to be long & lean! :)

That is Finn's pumpkin behind him - he drew the face himself for Daddy to carve! He is into drawing lately and has had lots of practice drawing jack-o-lanterns.

The boys were literally running wild in the yard before we left. As Ryan said..."there's a rogue cowboy & a dwarf running around our yard!"

Just a little excited, maybe?!!

And off we go...

About halfway done...we just went up and down our street which was plenty for the boys. At each house Finn did a great job knocking on the doors and then when we left he'd ask "Should we go to another house?" in an excited voice. The two babies did great, too. Lilly slept most of the way.

Baby Rowan in her cute pumpkin outfit!

The M&M's were his favorite.

Can we do it again next year?!

My sweeties!

2010-10-24T22:47:00.006-05:00

Had more pictures to share tonight, but having a little trouble posting. So here are some quick pics for now! What sweeties...love them both so much, they make my days so special! Never a boring moment!

Newborn Photos

2010-10-24T21:45:00.004-05:00

Here are some the photos from Lilly's newborn shoot! They turned out awesome! Janelle & Kim from Rainkite Photography did an amazing job and were the best to work with! I would highly recommend them for anyone looking for a photographer! Can't wait to book another session with them! :) There are more pics of Lilly on their blog as well!

I can't believe how much she has grown since then! So glad we captured this special time because it goes by way too fast...she will be 2 months old tomorrow!!!

Lilly's Room!

2010-10-22T22:40:00.007-05:00

We actually finished putting the finishing touches on Lilly's room the day before Mom left to go back to Oregon, so it's been done for awhile, but I am just slow in getting these pics up. Kelly at Kelly's Korner has a post on nurseries and kid's rooms this week, so I am linking up! The room turned out totally different than what I had first thought that I wanted and I am so glad because I couldn't love it more! Thanks, Mom for all of your help in getting it "just right!"

We found our bedding in Portland at Goodnight Room and they shipped it here for us...such a fun store, but dangerous to spend too much time in! :) It is from the Dwell line and I think it is perfect for this room!

Love how this area turned out...Lilly's loves laying on her changing pad...the cover is the pink chamois from Pottery Barn, super soft! We had the blue one for Finn, so had to get Lilly one as well! The print on the shelf is one of my favorite things in the entire room (purchased from Etsy). If you can't tell it says "Happy Day."

I wish I had a closer pic of the silhouette print by the door. It is from an Etsy store as well.

Loved how her name turned out above the crib - very feminine!

The rocking chair was moved out of Finn's room (his train table is there now, so he didn't mind). I'm planning on spending many, many more hours rocking, reading, and cuddling here!

Bookcase to hold toys & books. I am planning on framing and hanging one of her newborn pictures on the wall next to it. I will be posting some of her pics on here soon, too! They turned out great...our photographers were THE BEST!

Some of the little details that make a room special...

There is something about these little white onesies that gets me...

A little larger view of the closet...this was taken before she was born and is much fuller now! :) Girl clothes are so much fun!

We are definitely enjoying her room, hope you enjoyed seeing it. I had planned on putting some pictures of us on here tonight, but it is late and I must get to bed...Lilly and I are doing the Sacred Steps 5K Run/Walk in the morning (we are walking) if this rain goes away. I promise it won't be a month before I post again - maybe tomorrow night! :) Good night!

Weekend Outing & 2 Weeks old!!!

2010-09-09T22:39:00.006-05:00

I can't believe my little baby is two weeks old already! She has changed so much...and gotten a little chunkier! We had a doctor's appointment on Tuesday and she weighed 9 lbs 3.1 oz! They were very pleased and so was Mommy! She is still doing great, eating well (obviously), sleeping well, and is just a sweet, content little girl!

Snapped this of my handsome little guy when we were doing a photo shoot yesterday and I just love it! We had to distract him with some Hershey's Kisses so we have chocolate on the face and hair is disheveled, but that's kinda how life is around here right now - messy but lively and perfect in it's own way!

Such a good big brother! He talks so sweet to Lilly that it just melts your heart!

Saturday we had GORGEOUS weather...like a perfect Fall day, so we all got out and enjoyed some fresh air at the Cider Mill. We usually go during the festival and it is crazy busy, so it was nice to be there when it was more low-key. We ate Apple Cider Donuts and drank Root Beer (that they bottle themselves) while we sat out on their porch. And of course, we had to buy some Apple Cider to take home.

Lilly's first outing - she loved it & slept the entire time!

Finn watching the women make donuts....

So nice that Grandma can be here with us to share some of our yearly traditions.

Finn had a blast...he is very social & loves going just about anywhere. He made some friends with an older couple who were out for a ride on their motorcycle. Not a shy guy, that's for sure. It definitely did him good to get out and about today!

Lazy Sunday

2010-08-29T22:48:00.003-05:00

It was so nice to be able to just stay home today and not have anywhere to go! Finn is still loving his sister and is always interested in what she is doing. We are putting some finishing touches on the nursery and then I hope to share some of those pics, too! Now I'm off to feed my little girl and try to get some sleep!

Love this picture! It's the sweetest!

Saturday and Three Days Old!

2010-08-29T22:38:00.003-05:00

Lilly is adjusting to life at home well! She is sleeping lots during the day, but not so much at night unless someone is holding her, but each night gets a little better. She is nursing great and has been from the start!

She had a quick sponge bath which she was not so fond of, and she has no problem letting us know when she is unhappy! :)

Welcome Home Lilly!

2010-08-29T22:20:00.005-05:00

One proud Big Brother! As soon as we arrived home and got inside, Finn ran to his toy shelf and brought his trucks over and started showing Lilly how they worked!

We had the sweetest surprise Welcome Home Party! It was so pink & girly and just beautiful! Jana made the cutest banner for Lilly & we had beautiful roses & flowers, & yummy cupcakes that Finn & Grandma picked out. It was perfect! Thank you so much everyone!

So happy to be home with this precious little girl!

Baby Girl is Here!!!

2010-08-29T22:03:00.002-05:00

We are so happy that our baby girl is finally here! Lilly Marie Johnson was born on August 25th at 11:42am! She was 8lbs 7oz and measured 19 1/2 inches long. She is amazing and we are so in love with her!!!

Finn was excited to see his baby sister and calls her "Yilly". He didn't quite know what to think when he saw that Mama was "in a bed" in the hospital. He wanted to hold Lilly and brought her a balloon. He still thinks that she should be able to walk and keeps telling us to "put her down so she can stand."

Sweet, sweet little girl!

Lilly didn't want to sleep much during our two nights at the hospital but she did love it when they wrapped her in this cozy swaddle sack!

At the Ball Field!

2010-08-06T14:15:00.002-05:00

A couple weeks ago we went to a T-Bones game for the first time...enjoyed it much more than the Royals, especially with the kiddos! Finn was most excited about seeing "Sizzle" the mascot - even got to give him a high five (didn't have the camera!)- and that is all he could talk about for days afterward!

The kids got to pick out a treat, and Finn chose cotton candy which he wanted nothing to do with after the first bite!

Now, I must return to my nesting while Finn is taking a nap (thank you, Lord!!!). Only 3 more weeks until we get to meet Baby Sister and we cannot wait!

A few 4th Pics

2010-07-23T13:53:00.004-05:00

Thought this was a sweet pic of Finn with his sparkler on the 4th -- first sparkler ever and he loved it! We had a fun 4th at Gram's house - dinner & fireworks, which finished right before the rain started! He loved all of the fireworks and now every time he hears a loud noise he says "I heard fireworks!"

Now off to get something done while he naps...more pics later (and I'll post some of our trip home).

Blueberry Patch

2010-07-20T21:55:00.002-05:00

I have a lot of pictures I want to share and I am finally through uploading them all, but it takes forever to go through them because there are SO many! So, my posts are not necessarily going to be in chronological order, but you can still get an idea of what we've been up to so far this summer! A few weeks ago we went to the Blueberry Patch and picked. I didn't get as many as I wanted but we ended up with almost 9 pounds that I froze to get us through part of the winter! Blueberries are Finn's favorite! Mommy's too! When we tell people about picking he loves to say "Mama said, No more EATING!".

Keepin' Cool!

2010-07-14T14:01:00.010-05:00

It has been a HOT summer so far in KC! Yesterday we had a super fun playdate at the Crown Center fountains! It was our first time going there to play in the water. Finn was a little timid at first...

...but after about 15 minutes he got the idea...

and had an absolute blast!!!

He is a water boy for sure!

When the fountains would stop he would run off to the edge and start clapping like mad - every time - and then run back in when they started up again!

Hannah relaxing in the shade.

Had lunch at Fritz's afterwards - the trains never get old! And then off to the Clifford exhibit!

Today is another hot one, we spent the morning at the pool after music class, but I forgot my camera! Didn't even realize it until we got home! More summer pics to come soon!

Snackin'

2009-09-07T23:45:00.003-05:00

One of Finn's favorite snacks and so very easy.

Fill cup 1/2 full with yogurt (we used Stonyfield Farm's organic Yo-Baby yogurt).
Add layer of blueberries and strawberries.
Fill remainder of cup with yogurt and top with more berries!

Mmmmm, Mmmm! (Especially good when served in cute Halloween tumbler!)

Yogurt and berries are two of the only things he will eat lately! He's gotten very stubborn about what he will and will not eat!

if you're happy and you know it...

2009-09-06T23:56:00.003-05:00

...clap your hands...

...if you're happy and you know it, beat your chest...

...if you're happy and you know it, laugh out loud...

...if you're happy and you know it, tickle Daddy...

...if you're happy and you know it, rub your belly...

...if you're happy and you know it, twirl around...

...if you're happy and you know it, SHOW IT!!!

{Happy "P" Day...or something like that}

2009-08-28T21:49:00.003-05:00

Yes, as some of you have guessed, today was "P"otty Training Day! Finn has loved sitting on his potty chairs so we've tried a little bit already, but today I was determined to start for real. After breakfast (and a full glass of milk) I took him to his potty chair and Puppy went potty. Then it was Finn's turn so we sat and read and drank water and read some more. Nothing, which I figured, so okay. We got up, I set the timer, and he ran around diaper-less while I tried to give him as much water as I could. And so on....After the third time on the potty chair and nothing, he got up and went about playing.

After a minute or so I noticed he had kinda stopped and was leaning against our bed and, you guessed it, pee-pee all over Mama's bed skirt (and floor). Mama: "Finn, look you went pee-pee on the floor. Next time you can put your pee-pee in the potty." Finn: "Nnnnooo." That wasn't our only accident of the day but I won't go into detail on the other one. I think he was actually holding it in while on the potty and then would go within minutes after getting up. I keep telling myself, Baby steps, we are not in any hurry. Diapers do have their benefits!

{Wanna go for a ride...}

2009-08-27T21:56:00.005-05:00

...in my new bike?!! I wish (Sigh). You can help me out if you click on the link to the right and check out the hip new Madsen Cargo bikes. Wouldn't Finn be the cutest sitting in the bucket, his blond curls blowing in the wind, his little puppy dog sitting on his lap licking his face?!! He wishes (sigh).

Puppy Dog? No, "P" day does not involve any additions to our family, animals included!

I had planned on posting a picture hint for "P" day, but today was busier than expected, so it just didn't happen. And to clarify, tomorrow is "P" day!
I will say that "P" day could be a major turning point for us, or an utter disaster, we will find out tomorrow! Mama will need lots and lots of "P"atience and Diet Dr. Pepper - and we're out (of the soda that is).

(As Finn would say) OOOOOH NOOOOO!

{2 days left....}

2009-08-25T21:43:00.001-05:00

Pie-baking? Pajama Day? Petting Zoo? Party?!!!! Painting pink pajamas, policeman in a pail, Peter Pepper's puppy, and now Papa's in the pail (sorry, that just slipped out, I don't know why, I haven't read that book one thousand times!).

(as Finn would say)- Hmmmmm.

Maybe I'll leave a hint tomorrow!

{Sassy}

2009-08-25T14:11:00.005-05:00

Who me?!!

I am finally getting around to a PS course I signed up for and LOVING it!!! I'm definitely going to have to do more!

{3 days until....}

2009-08-24T22:13:00.003-05:00

"P" Day! Hmmmm...so what is "P" day? Playing at the park day? Picking yummy vegetables from our garden day? Painting with our new fingerpaints day? Maybe, could be one of those. Or maybe not. "P" day could have multiple meanings now that I'm thinking more about it. But, since it's only 3 days away and I have some preparation to do tomorrow, I'd better get some sleep! You'll just have to wait and see!

{no joke...}

2009-08-16T22:29:00.003-05:00

...there are more pictures coming of our trip & other summer festivities. Would this face lie?!

{so fun!}

2009-08-01T22:37:00.002-05:00

LOVE these new frames....can't wait to play around more with them!

{you make me smile!}

2009-07-28T22:35:00.002-05:00

I'm in the middle of editing TONS of pics, so more to come soon, but couldn't resist posting this one!

{beautiful}

2009-07-22T22:09:00.005-05:00

This takes my breath away, brings a smile to my face, and brings tears to my eyes all at the same time! Have a listen....

{07.08.09 @ 10:11:12 pm}

2009-07-09T00:22:00.003-05:00

This is what I was doing --- woohoo, got the sewing machine out! Hope to win the giveaway!!!

{Ahhhhhh.....summer!}

2009-07-02T00:43:00.005-05:00

Here are some recent pics that brought a smile to my face, and hopefully to yours as well! The first one is my favorite!

{almost recovered...}

2009-06-22T21:38:00.002-05:00

It's been a rough couple of weeks, but I think we are finally getting over this crud. Finn got sick first, the day we were headed down to Stockton, so we had to take him to the Urgent Care so they could make sure he didn't have a UTI (because of his kidney issues), turned out he didn't (whew!) and it was just a virus. The poor little guy was down for a few days so we had lots of snuggle time and just layed low. Then the next week, Mama got sick and I am finally starting to feel like I have some energy (despite the 98 degree suffocating heat-wave we are having). So, hopefully tomorrow we can keep cool inside & get ready for Grandma to visit! I have a ton of pictures to put on here but can't quite make it downstairs to the computer tonight so they will have to wait.

Samantha tagged me with this fun little survey so that'll have to do for now!

8 things I look forward to......
1. When 5:00 (or usually 5:25ish) rolls around on Mon & Wed and I can head home to my boys
2. Grandma coming to visit
3. Our visit to Oregon!!!!!! It's been tooo long & can't wait to see everyone (and Sierra for the 1st time!)
4. Archiver's Friday night--I know I'm a wild woman! ;)
5. Bedtime!!!
6. Seeing Finn's smiling face in the morning & lots of XXXXs & OOOOs!
7. The first Diet Dr. Pepper of the day (I'm off the wagon)
8. Getting to help some with Jana's house

8 things I did yesterday......
1. Wished our Fathers and Grandfather A Happy Father's Day
2. Church
3. Lunch at Ted's Montana Grill (Ryan's choice)
4. Cleaned a little while Finn napped
5. Read the Sunday paper (okay, not really, just the ads & House & Home section)
6. Made Graham Crackers for Finn (which he likes a little too much - caused a meltdown tonight when he couldn't have anymore!)
7. Swimming at the pool
8. Wished we could do it all again!

8 things I wish I could do....
1. Sing (well)
2. Fly home whenever we felt like it
3. Capture every moment of every day to relive 10 years down the road
4. Have all of my groceries delivered to our house
5. Grow about 4 inches
6. Be able to function with less sleep
7. Not get so STRESSED over little things
8. think of one more thing for this list

8 shows I watch.....
1. Grey's Anatomy
2. The Office
3. Brothers & Sisters
4. Private Practice
5. that's it - tape shows on Food Network, but never get around to watching them

2 Years Ago....
I think we were in Oregon!

Okay that's enough fun for one night, off to bed, will try to post some pics soon.

{Just havin' fun}

2009-05-19T23:22:00.007-05:00

Hannah was very excited to give Finn a bath - she washed his hair, and was trying so hard to spike it. So sweet!

One little monkey....likes to jump on Mama's bed!

Finn & Mama on Mother's Day! He was so sweet and cuddly all day, it was great!

{In a blog rut}

2009-05-16T23:17:00.005-05:00

The blue is not doing it for me, I need to redesign my blog but no time now so I guess it'll do.... Here are some of our latest pics....}

Aaaaghhhh!!!!! The computer is not working....it's late so I'll try again tomorrow, off to bed for now! Sorry, Mom! :)

{Down on the Farm}

2009-05-11T23:50:00.004-05:00

Had tons of fun at Deanna Rose - the goats were a big hit!!! Finn wasn't shy around them at all. He wasn't sure what to think of the cows. I think he's too small for a pony ride still, but we'll have to try to feed the baby goats next time!

{Enjoying the outdoors...}

2009-05-11T23:40:00.005-05:00

So excited to find these pics, because I thought I had deleted them!

{little star!}

2009-04-21T15:53:00.002-05:00

Finn absolutely LOVES these sunglasses. We got several pair for Easter and we keep them in "convenient" places (i.e. kitchen, changing table, bathroom sink) to make certain chores more entertaining and tolerable for all involved! Helping Mama water our new blueberry bush! We also had fun planting some herbs - gotta love this Spring weather, we have BIG plans for outside!!!

{zippity-do-da}

2009-04-11T21:51:00.004-05:00

I was singing this song to Finn this morning and he clapped for me when I was finished - it was too cute! We had a super busy day with our Easter festivities, but so much fun! Our subdivision had an Easter Egg Hunt this morning so Finn and I went - he wasn't too interested in finding the eggs, he just wanted to keep opening them. I think we had a grand total of 4! The Easter Bunny made an appearance, and after a few tears at first, Finn decided he wanted to go up to him.
This is about as friendly as he got with him, though!

Candy inside?!!!

Then Finn helped me whip up some icing for our cookies.

We used to make these Bunny cookies when I was little, so I begged the cookie cutter off of Mom. After much searching, I even found the licorice for the whiskers!

We have another cookie lover!

Hannah got new glasses....aren't they cute?!!!

Time for a few gifts from family! Thanks so much everyone, they loved their gifts!!! Here is Finn with his favorite book "The Birthday Monsters". He came running to me when he saw it and plopped down on my lap - we read it 3 times in a row.

Mmmm.....Smencils!

Spa Sleepover Party!

After dinner we walked to Christopher & Kristen's to see Eleni & Demetri, then came home to dye some eggs before the kiddos crashed. Finn only wanted to stick his hand in the dye.

Wishing everyone a very Happy Easter!!! XOXO!

{Day at the "K"!}

2009-04-10T22:52:00.004-05:00

We headed to the newly renovated stadium for Royals Opening Day! It was cold & windy and this little guy was not too happy so the two of us tailgated in the car for awhile until the wind died down.

Aren't they cute?!!! Mom has a matching pair! :)

There is a happier boy! He loved the excitement of the opening ceremonies and was dancing to the music! We didn't make it more than a couple of innings, but we'll try again when the weather warms up! I was surprised that he lasted as long as he did.

{what fills our days...}

2009-04-10T22:33:00.004-05:00

Aunt Ashley got Finn his first golf set and he loves it. I think he gets the "club" concept just fine, not so sure about the "golfing". Daddy will be a good teacher, though!

He thinks my sun glasses are hilarious...just cracks up when I put them on. I managed to sneak a pic before he pulled them off.

Yep, he manages to find the dirt every time we are outside. He had just taken a big old bite of it, mmm, mmm! Want a taste?

Every thing is a phone these days, even a big ol' handful of dirt. That's an imagination!

We love the new shelf Daddy built!

Our Parents as Teachers educator brought Finn this hand-made game & he loves it! He's pretty good at it, too!

Little artist...

I found this book that we used to have as kids and had to get it for Finn. It's called "Little Bunny Follows his Nose" and it's a scratch-n-sniff (can you tell?).

FREEDOM!!!! They finally let me out!!!!!

{look at those baby legs go!}

2009-04-10T22:28:00.003-05:00

At 50% off, I just couldn't resist! Finn and Daddy were not big fans of them but I think they are absolutely adorable!

{catch-up time!}

2009-04-10T22:18:00.003-05:00

We spent a weekend in Stockton a couple weeks ago & had a great time! Finn is going to be an outdoors boy, I can tell!

Blast from the past! Ryan found some of his old toys and I think everyone enjoyed some of our old favorites! Look familiar?!!

I don't know who was having more fun with the cars....

Ahhh...love the fresh country air!

{more to come this week..}

2009-04-05T22:22:00.002-05:00

I have been so busy trying to catch up on editing, printing, & backing up all of my photos that I haven't gotten any pics on lately. So, by the end of this week I WILL have some recent pics! Check back soon!

{monkey boy}

2009-03-18T22:16:00.003-05:00

Ryan taught Finn this monkey face - it is hilarious, he breathes out through his nose while he does it. And his new favorite game is running under mom & dad's legs (it's a little easier with Daddy), he just cracks up! We are loving this beautiful weather and really hope it could stay this way, we've played outside every day this week!

{just a kid in a candy store...}

2009-03-17T15:18:00.002-05:00

Mama at the Sister's Candy Store in 1980

Finn loves candy, too!

{finn's 1st haircut!}

2009-03-13T23:06:00.006-05:00

Here is before...

during...

And after...

Thank goodness they had TV's...Finn doesn't watch TV so he was enthralled with it the whole time & just tried to ignore the stylist. He thought the fire engine was pretty neat, too. He did so good, no fussing, no tears, he just sat there and let her cut his hair. She left some curls in the back for Mama! Such a handsome little boy!

{Surprise visit from Grandma!}

2009-03-12T22:42:00.003-05:00

Finn & Mama were so surprised to see Grandma last night (well, Finn was, Mama had a hunch...). We had a fun day at Borders (Finn loved all the books & the Easter bunny), lunch at Cheesecake, and a little shopping afterwards. Finn had a short nap in the stroller while we shopped and he was SUCH a good boy - we went pretty much all afternoon and he didn't complain. Tomorrow we go to have his 1st haircut!!! Check back for pictures! Ask Grandma what new word Finn learned from her today...

{13 mos old!}

2009-03-06T20:20:00.001-06:00

Can't believe my boy is 13 months old already! Do you think it's time for a haircut yet? Did I mention he loves his books?!

{just like mama...}

2009-03-06T20:17:00.002-06:00

This little boy is always on the phone anymore...wonder where he gets it?!! We had a lot of errands to do yesterday and he was SO good. I thought he would fall asleep in the car on the way home, but he was too busy!

{book worm}

2009-03-06T20:07:00.002-06:00

Today I was putting a load of laundry in and Finn was playing in his room. I peeked in the door and this is what I found...he had climbed into the rocker all by himself with his book and was reading so peacefully. He melts my heart!

{all boy}

2009-03-06T19:59:00.002-06:00

"What can I say? I'm a boy and I LOVE dirt! I just discovered it a couple weeks ago and I like it more and more each time I get my hands on it. Tastes pretty good, too. Mommy had to go and spoil my fun, though, she said 4 handfuls were enough. I disagree!"

{more birthday pics!}

2009-02-06T22:47:00.003-06:00

{happy birthday to Finn!!}

2009-02-02T23:20:00.003-06:00

My little baby is a little boy! I can't believe he is one year old today. What an amazing year it's been. We celebrated on Saturday and had a wonderful day! Here is one of the many pictures of him with his cake - it took awhile for him to get into it, but I think he thoroughly enjoyed it! I have many more pics to post, but am exhausted from the festivities this weekend so

it will have to wait one more day. Happy birthday, I love you little sweetie!

{happy 2009!}

2009-01-09T12:05:00.002-06:00

Our new year has been exciting already with the birth of my new little niece, Sierra, on January 1st! I'll try to put a picture on soon! One of my resolutions is to take a picture a day - to "capture everyday life as it happens". Another resolution is to put those pics on my blog! Look for them coming soon.....!

We wish you a Merry Christmas!

2008-12-15T23:11:00.002-06:00

To all of our loved ones - we wish you a wonderful Christmas & New Years! We are looking forward to our first Christmas with Finn and then enjoying having Hannah over New Year's to celebrate again! Love to you all! See you in 2009!

HoHoHo

2008-12-15T23:08:00.003-06:00

I almost forgot the Santa pics!

More holiday fun....

2008-12-15T23:01:00.008-06:00

Yummy!

2008-12-15T22:57:00.004-06:00

Mealtime continues to be interesting & entertaining! Mmmmmm!

Hello again!

2008-12-15T22:34:00.007-06:00

yes...we are still here! We have been keeping busy getting the house decorated, shopping, wrapping, listening to Christmas music and cuddling up inside on these COLD winter days! Okay, we haven't had THAT many cold days, but it's enough for me! Tomorrow they are forecasting up to 5 inches of snow...the light and fluffy kind! Here are some recent pics! Finn saw Santa for the first time -- kinda liked him at first, but then he just wanted Mommy & Daddy!

{not quite like Oregon...}

2008-11-08T23:13:00.006-06:00

...but the tree in our front yard is pretty spectacular for a couple of weeks in the Fall. Finn and I headed outdoors just in time - it is completely bare now! He had a blast playing in the leaves! He's an Oregonian at heart!

He (obviously) didn't like the taste, but that didn't stop him from putting every one he picked up into his mouth. And he brought several into the house...Ryan asked me "where are all of these leaves coming from?" oops.

look closely...you can see teeth!

{motor boat, motor boat...}}

2008-11-08T22:30:00.004-06:00

We started our parent-tot swim classes last week. Most of the time Finn is too enthralled with what the other kids are doing to "swim." But we do get some splashing & kicks in! He loves it during toy time when we throw the ball and then swim after it!

{I voted!}

2008-11-08T22:29:00.003-06:00

Yes, we made it to the voting booth & "hooray-no lines"! We just walked right up. Thank goodness for early voting!

{catch-up}

2008-11-08T22:04:00.011-06:00

Just a few more pics from Oregon that I wanted to share...

Here are my cute little nephews, Jaren & Lukas. They have a little sister on the way!

{Jana's Shower}

2008-11-08T21:47:00.010-06:00

Thanks for everyone who could make it to Jana's Shower! We had a great time and she got lots of cute things for baby Sierra who is going to be here sooner than we thought! I stole the candy bar idea from Sara...thanks!

(How could I NOT sneek a pic of Finn in?!!!)

{Breena's Senior Pics}

2008-11-08T21:36:00.008-06:00

I took Breena's senior pics when we were in Oregon...here are a few! We had a fun loooong day! Isn't she beautiful?! :)

{Trick-or-Treating}

2008-10-31T23:29:00.006-05:00

Halloween was in full swing at the Zarda's party and everyone was in costume!

{Happy Halloween!}

2008-10-31T23:00:00.009-05:00

Finn had a wonderful 1st Halloween! He loved his costume and couldn't wait to go trick-or-treating! :) He actually did great, didn't fuss with the costume, and had fun visiting cousin Neale. Here are lots of pictures...have you ever seen a cuter pumpkin?! Mom and Dad had fun, too!

Finn's pumpkin has two teeth just like him!

{the love of my life...}

2008-10-19T22:46:00.003-05:00

...has one tooth and drools! And #2 is on it's way! We went to visit Daddy at his BEAUTIFUL new office - good work, Daddy! All the ladies loved Finn and he did great being passed from person to person - I don't think he'll be a shy one! Finn sat in the chair and even opened so Dad could look at his tooth. He was having a great time and got to take home a toothbrush & toy!

{back to Oregon}

2008-10-19T22:45:00.005-05:00

Some pics from our recent trip....there will be more coming SOON! Don't you love the pumpkin hat?!!

{Mama's boy}

2008-10-19T22:43:00.003-05:00

He loves Target just as much as Mommy!

{Hard to keep up with him!}

2008-10-19T22:40:00.003-05:00

Oh, yes, we've been crawling for about a month now and he has found everything downstairs...loves the door stop & fire place, especially, and makes Mommy a nervous wreck! He loves pulling up on all of the furniture and has started just letting go, so we have to be right there or he bangs his head on whatever there is on the way down!

{trip to Nell Hill's}

2008-10-19T22:33:00.003-05:00

As part of my bday present, my boys took me to Nell Hill's...they walked the town and I shopped! It was a gorgeous day and they were both troopers!

{pic from Oregon}

2008-09-30T22:49:00.003-05:00

Yes, I'm still working on the pics from Oregon...I have a TON of them. Here is one I love! I'll put more on soon.

{come back soon}

2008-09-21T22:14:00.002-05:00

Well, not too bad for my first time blogging! This is a work in progress as I learn about how this all works, but I think it'll be a great way to keep everyone updated with our news and current pics! We are thinking of you all - miss you & love ya! And, if any of you have a blog, please share it with us! I'm off to bed...good night.

{speaking of food}

2008-09-21T22:13:00.001-05:00

I love my new high chair!!!

{more peas, please!}

2008-09-21T22:11:00.002-05:00

Not a big fan of his green veggies so far...we keep trying!

{playtime}

2008-09-21T22:09:00.002-05:00

Momma had to go shopping after we left Eleni's birthday party - she has so many fun toys! Finn likes his new musical table, especially the ABC song!

{what bedtime?}

2008-09-21T22:06:00.002-05:00

We seem to have a lot of energy at night lately...usually from 2 am until about 4 or 5. This morning we didn't get back to sleep until almost 7 am! We should sleep good tonight...

{happy 34th birthday, Dad!}

2008-09-21T22:00:00.003-05:00

Ryan's bday was yesterday, but we celebrated last weekend with Hannah.

{almost crawling...}

2008-09-21T21:54:00.003-05:00

He is trying SO hard to crawl! He can zip around backwards quite well, and last night he actually managed to scoot forwards some. It won't be long!

{with cousin Neale}

2008-09-21T21:17:00.003-05:00

I can't believe that MY baby used to be this little...these boys will have quite a time together in the coming years!