.

Happy New Year 2012!

2012-01-15T19:57:00.000-08:00

Dear friends of ours invited us to their farm for the New Years weekend and to say we had a blast would be an understatement! We were welcomed into their beautiful new farmhouse and were entertained with great adventures and activities. Here are some pictures from the weekend!

Arts and crafts...

When Zane saw the big kids driving the cars he waited his turn. When it was his turn to ride shotgun with a big kid driving he pretty much pushed the little girl out of the car and moved over to drive it himself. He had no clue what he was doing but was determined to try! It was too funny to watch!

Daddy/daughter dance in the barn!!

Starting them early...gotta learn how to play ping pong!

The crew!

Suiting up for the big football game!

More arts and crafts for the girls while the boys played football!

We took a ride around to explore the land!

Zane is so proud...he figured out how to drive it...with steering help by moi!

Happy 2012!!

Here is to a memorable 2011 and to making more great memories in 2012!

Wishing you all a happy new year!

Zilker Tree 2011

2012-01-15T19:22:00.000-08:00

We continued the tradition of the Zilker Tree again this year. Although I do miss the trail of lights the kids had fun spinning under the tree...and the popcorn treat and light up toy also helped!!

Christmas Morning 2011

2012-01-09T19:41:00.000-08:00

Santa was VERY generous this year thanks to a few of his elves (aka Grammy, PapaTank, and GG)!!! Finley and Zane woke up to quite a sight on Christmas morning!

It took them a minute to realize that all the toys were for them...once that was realized they were exploring all their loot! They are loving it all!

Twas the night before Christmas 2011

2012-01-09T19:20:00.000-08:00

We had another great Christmas Eve celebration over at Aunt Sarah's house. It was great spending time with family and the little ones played so well together! We continued out tradition of Christmas Eve BBQ dinner! Here are a ton of pics from the fun day!

Magical Christmas Lights

2011-12-19T20:57:00.001-08:00

To say that Finley and Zane are loving the Christmas lights would be an understatement! Every morning they request "tree on" and wonder why Julie's, our neighbor, reindeer are not on all day long! They look out the windows in the evening and notify us with such excitement when our neighbors lights come on!

Meeting the reindeer up close!!

So it was a no brainer when I found out that the coffee shop down the street had a light show set to music that we would take Finley and Zane. I don't think they took a breath the entire 10 minute show. They were in awe!

Merry Christmas!!

2011-12-18T12:58:00.001-08:00

We would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas! Happiest Holidays to all!

Ho Ho Ho!!

2011-12-18T12:49:00.001-08:00

We took our annual Santa picture today and I was pleasantly surprised...no tears, but no smiles either!!

We did get great big smiles after all was said and done when they were snacking on their candy cane treat!

We lucked out and there was SNOW too. Yep, snow! Not sure how or why it was there but we had fun playing in it!

Holiday treats for toddlers!

2011-12-13T20:31:00.001-08:00

When I saw this on Pinterest I knew that it was what I wanted to make for Finley and Zane's friends at school! Finley and Zane enjoyed helping me make the playdough and I loved the peppermint scent that lingered in the air for the rest of the day!!!

I added a candy cane cookie cutter to the package! I also made an extra batch for F and Z to play with and they are having fun cutting out christmas trees, candy canes, and gingerbread men!

I love Pinterest and have found so many wonderful ideas from so many creative people! Thanks for sharing, y'all!

Here is my take on gifting Peppermint Playdough...

So very thankful...

2011-12-05T20:37:00.001-08:00

I am so very thankful this year...
for my wonderful family...for the 2 most precious children, Finley and Zane....for the sweetest furry babies, Tank and Vader...for an amazing husband...for the bestest friends a girl can have...for a lovely home that I am having fun decorating on a super tight budget!...for an adorable new addition to the family, my nephew, Little Paul...for technology so that I can keep in touch with those near and far...for my health and the health of my family...and for so much more.

We celebrated thanksgiving with a casual late lunch/early dinner here at our house. It felt good to host back at home this year!

Playdoh time with Papa! Papa Tank entertaining F and Z while momma tends to the kitchen!

Then it was time for a little Turkey craft for the littles! I made a paper turkey and everyone got to decorate a feather!

Our turkey with feathers!

My little monkeys!

2011-12-05T20:20:00.001-08:00

They are pretty proud of their newest trick! It is definitely monkey see monkey do around here!

Just hangin' around!

Uncle Ryan and Aunt Jan tie the knot (Part 3)

2011-12-04T11:52:00.001-08:00

Saturday was a day of prepping for what was a beautiful wedding! Mommy got her hair and make-up done...wish I could do that everyday! It was fun visiting with Jan and all her friends on the morning of the wedding!

Finley and Zane got all dressed up too! They looked too precious! And daddy looked quite dapper in his tux!

Jan and her sister!

Grammy getting all dolled up!

Flowers sent from Ryan...awwww!

Mommy getting dolled up too!

Our attempt at a family pic!

Bella groom's cake!

Got to see Ashley...yay!!!

Congratulations again to the beautiful bride and handsome groom! We were so glad to be a part of your special day!

Uncle Ryan and Aunt Jan tie the knot (Part 2)

2011-11-23T06:41:00.001-08:00

Sorry I am a little slow these days! With the approaching holidays and a little part time job my free time has decreased a bit!

On Friday of the wedding weekend we were able to visit the Audubon Zoo in the morning. It was a gorgeous day and it was really fun to see all the animals. I would have to say after visiting the zoo, I don't think Finley will be a vet. She was not too fond of all the big animals. Zane however wanted a closer look!

Later we attended the Rehearsal and Rehearsal Dinner. It was great fun! Finely and Zane stayed with a wonderful babysitter...they just adored Miss Jenna!

Uncle Ryan & Aunt Jan tie the knot! (Part 1)

2011-11-19T11:44:00.001-08:00

Last week we headed to New Orleans for Ryan and Jan's wedding! We loaded up the car and drove. ten. hours. with. two. two year olds. We survived and had a wonderful time with family and friends!

I am breaking this up into parts as I took so many pics and there were so many festivities!
We stayed in downtown NOLA and Finley and Zane loved the hotel room, especially the beds...they even got breakfast in bed!

Thursday morning the girls (sans kids) went to the Bridesmaids Luncheon at the beautiful Houma's House. It was so fun getting to know Jan's friends!

Then we got to play dress up at my parent's house! Here is Blakeley in her wedding dress!! She knew just what to do!

Halloween Night

2011-11-14T08:43:00.001-08:00

I know I am a bit behind but wanted to post pics from Halloween night! They were so funny because they were pretty clingy at each house but when the bowl of candy cam out they ran to pick out their treats! We trick or treated a few neighbors houses then handed out candy at ours.

Trick or treating at GG's house!

waiting for some candy!!!

Trick or treat!

2011-11-03T12:47:00.001-07:00

Once again we went to the Chi O house for a little trick or treating! It is always so fun to see old friends and their precious little ones all dressed up! Daddy got to go this year as well as GG!

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-30T20:52:00.001-07:00

My little Pooh and Piglet...

I just couldn't resist buying those adorable hats once I found them...they were just perfect! Pooh and Piglet are the best of friends as are Finley and Zane!

“We'll be Friends Forever, won't we, Pooh?' asked Piglet. Even longer,' Pooh answered.”
"It's so much more friendly with two." -Alan Alexander Milne
“Sometimes,' said Pooh, 'the smallest things take up the most room in your heart.” ― A.A. Miln
“How do you spell 'love'?" - Piglet "You don't spell it...you feel it." - Pooh” ― A.A. Milne

I hope everyone has a fun and safe Halloween!

Pumpkin painting!

2011-10-24T08:48:00.001-07:00

Well it started out as pumpkin painting... then gradually moved to body painting!

And now the real fun begins...

Halloween Fun!

2011-10-22T13:58:00.001-07:00

We have been having fun with all of my old Halloween toys and trying to introduce some new vocab words...skeleton, ghost, spooky, halloween, etc!

When I ask what a witch says I get the cutest "heeheehee" from both of them! I just love it!

Sticking spiders on the window!

beep beep!

2011-10-18T13:36:00.001-07:00

After a year, they are still loving this little car!

My little pumpkins!

2011-10-18T13:31:00.001-07:00

We met some friends at the pumpkin patch and chased the little sone around trying to snap a few good shots! It is proving to be a bit more difficult this year as they are much faster and unwilling to sit for a picture!

Here are my favorites...

Playhouse!

2011-10-18T13:25:00.001-07:00

Our monthly order of diapers and wipes always comes in a large box (and we all know kids love cardboard boxes) so I turned our latest box into a playhouse...and they are loving it!

Girls Weekend

2011-10-08T21:12:00.001-07:00

Last weekend I had a wonderful girls weekend with my mom, sister, aunt, and cousin! It was a staycation for me so I got away to stay in a beautiful Barton Creek Resort Villa! We got our nails done, spent a day in Fredrickburg, watched Bridesmaids, ate great food, and just visited! I hope we can do it again!! It sure was fun!

Seasonal bath toys!

2011-10-07T12:26:00.001-07:00

I got out my October bin from my teaching days and found some great items that I dug out for Finley and Zane! Who doesn't love free new bath toys!

And activities to use with our favorite October poem "5 Little Pumpkins"!

Playdough fun...

Plastic pumpkin fun...

Finley and her shoes!

2011-10-05T14:13:00.001-07:00

School party!

2011-10-05T13:54:00.001-07:00

I sent mini cupcakes to school for the little ones to snack on in celebration of Finley and Zane's birthday! There is another set of boy/girl twins in their class whose birthday is on the same day...crazy! So 4 out of the 9 kiddos were born on 9.24.09!

(Yes, Finley's name is misspelled...I know)

They loved their birthday hats!

Baptism

2011-10-05T12:53:00.001-07:00

Finley and Zane were baptized on Sunday, September 25th. Our family and friends were able to be there to celebrate such a special occasion. It was a wonderful day!

They were baptized along with their cousins, Blakeley and Woods!

The birthday boy and girl!

2011-10-04T10:19:00.001-07:00

Gosh, It has been a busy week this past week so I have been slow to post! Here are the pictures of the sweetest 2 year olds!

We were so glad to share the day with such wonderful friends and family! Here are a ~~few~~ ton of my favorite pictures from the party!

Pooh Party details!

2011-09-27T14:42:00.001-07:00

I had fun searching for classic pooh materials for Finley and Zane's 2nd birthday party! We had it at the Austin Children's Museum and it turned out to be a perfect location...Easy to set up and clean up and fun for all!

Whirlwind weekend!

2011-09-25T20:14:00.001-07:00

What a wonderful weekend! We celebrated Finley and Zane's birthday on Saturday with family and friends! On Sunday, Finley and Zane were baptized along with their cousins, Blakeley and Woods. It was a very special weekend! Posts full of pictures coming soon!

Happy 2nd Birthday!!!

2011-09-24T12:55:00.000-07:00

2!!! Really? Already?!?

Happy birthday to you! You two are the light of my life!

My favorite times of each day are when I go in to your rooms and see your smiling faces and hear you say "Mommy!!" followed by "Daddy?, "Dee?" (aka Zane's version of Finley) or "Zane", and "Tanky?"
My other favorite time of each day is bedtime when I finally get a few real snuggles out of you! We read a book and then sing a song and I cherish those few moments of quiet time with each of you!

You are certainly the best of friends. The laughter from the silly games you create is the most precious thing! Since you are in separate rooms now you ask for each other when I come and get you out of bed!

Some things I want to remember always:

Finley: combines "Aunt" and "Sarah" to create her version "Santa"!!! You count by 2's with such exclamation (2! 4! 6!). You sing the alphabet but all I can make out is "E,F, G"! You still LOVE shoes! You have become a little copycat repeating everything we say! You request "dance party" every day before naps! You call yogurt covered raisins "eggs" because they look like little eggs!

Zane: You have discovered firetrucks ("eeuheeuh"), airplanes, and trains (choo-choo") and love them all! You love to laugh and crack yourself up all the time by throwing things! You call shoes "bee-boos"...not sure where that came from! You count also...2!, 2!, 2! You love to dance...and have quite the moves! You still blow kisses and I love it! Your cheeks are still the most kissable cheeks!

I can not imagine my life without you two! Each day is an adventure! I am so lucky to be your mommy!

Finley's post naptime Pooh party!

2011-09-15T14:07:00.001-07:00

This is the second time I found Pooh, Tigger, and Piglet like this after naptime! I am so glad I had the camera handy this time! She is just too funny!!! Who knows what she is up to!!

A little B-ball!

2011-09-13T14:10:00.001-07:00

Zane was showing off his moves!!

I Like School! ...written by mommy

2011-09-08T13:57:00.001-07:00

We are just 2 weeks into the school year. Overall things are going well with the exception of drop offs for little Z! I know the magic # is 3 weeks so I am hoping by the end of next week drop off will be tear-free! Today they both walked in holding my hand and made it to the classroom without any tears, then a simple "good morning!" from his teacher was all it took...wahhahh! Baby steps!

The teacher in me came out and I created an "I Like School" book to ~~brainwash~~ remind Z of all the positives about school! He loves the book and his favorite page is his teachers!! We will get there...one day!!!

Here are a few excerpts...

Saturday morning snuggles!

2011-09-06T14:06:00.001-07:00

Saturday mornings tend to be pretty slow and relaxing! Finley and Zane like to "play" on mommy and daddy's bed so we help them up and try to work in a few snuggles with them although it is mostly wiggling and giggling!!

Finley requested "TB on" so I obliged and she watched all of 1 minute before playing again (they are just not really into the TV...guess I should be glad)!

Birthday party fun!

2011-09-06T11:50:00.001-07:00

August was birthday party month for us...we had 1 if not 2 birthday parties every weekend! It was fun playing with all of our friends! We partied in our jammies, jumped at the bouncy house, rode the train, tumbled at the gym, and played at Gorgeous Millie!

Since we have been to so many parties recently Finley now loves to sing Happy Birthday and if we dare say the word "party" she will respond with "CAKE?!"!! I think she has momma's sweet tooth!

Here are some party pics from a couple of the birthday parties this past month!

Hanging with the birthday girl, Foley!

Celebrating Colin's b-day!

Playing with the birthday boy!

Color! Color!

2011-08-31T20:28:00.001-07:00

These 2 love to color! We have a little table downstairs and one upstairs so that they can color wherever we may be! I just love to watch them create!

First day of Preschool...ever!

2011-08-30T20:10:00.001-07:00

So I have to admit as ready as I was to have a few hours to myself, I was pretty nervous about today! Judging from past experience, leaving Finley and Zane with people they do not know has not gone very well...at all.

Drop off went better than I expected...I gave them each a kiss, told them I loved them and said I'd be back later, then I walked out. Not sure that they realized I was leaving which I was okay with!

After parent orientation we walked by their room and heard no crying...whew. Then as I was walking out the door I heard sweet Zane crying but only for a few seconds. As I peeked in the window I saw that his teacher was holding him and they were getting ready for snack. I decided that I should leave so I did and ran about 20 errands when I would typically only be able to do about 2 of those errands with 2 toddlers...crazy how much you can get done!

When I picked them up they were happy which is all I can ask for!! Got a good report from their teachers although they did not like the transition to the playground, and did not like diaper changes (nah, really?!?!). Overall a great first day!

Oh, Sarah and I signed up to be co-room moms...fun! So I was excited to put together a fun little First Day Survival Kit for the teachers...got the idea from Pinterest!

Fun little items included minus the water, advil, and chocolate! I had most of the items already so it was an easy little gift to put together!

More fun with shoes!

2011-08-27T12:21:00.001-07:00

I wasn't lying when I said they pull out shoes every. single. day. This morning I was getting ready and looked over and saw Zane wearing daddy's snow boots while wearing his camo PJ's! It was too cute and just had to document!

Figuring out how to maneuver in those big boots!

Meanwhile Finley was getting all fancy in a pair of mommy's heels!

Never a dull moment around here!

Time for school!

2011-08-25T20:58:00.001-07:00

Finley and Zane will be starting a preschool for 2 mornings a week next week! I am really excited for them! I know that it may be a rough start, but I also know how much fun they are gong to have and what a great experience it will be for them to be away from mommy for a short amount of time!

We went to Meet the Teacher today and met their super nice teachers! Can't say I wasn't nervous about how they would react, but I am happy to say that they didn't want to leave! Let's hope that they remember that come Tuesday!

Big Foot!

2011-08-25T14:09:00.001-07:00

Our favorite pastime these days is to try on all of mommy's shoes! I guess daddy's shoes aren't as fun because it is only mine that they pull out of the closet! I am amazed at how well they can walk in them! This happens multiple times a day...it is pretty funny.

...we all scream for ICE CREAM!

2011-08-25T14:03:00.001-07:00

A couple of weeks ago we braved the heat and went to the Ice Cream Festival. Not sure if we will go again, but we made the most of it while we were there!

Finley and Zane had their first taste of ice cream!

And had to get popsicles too...

Fun with cousins...

These three are trouble I tell ya!

A sweaty family pic!

Zane: "Maybe if I jump in no one will see!"

Zane admires the musicians on stage!

Aunt Sarah teaches Blakeley and Finley how to square dance (Nani and Papa Bill would be so proud!)

Blakeley loved riding in the airplane!

We all had to godown the big slide...weeee!

Blakeley got some air!

Garbage trucks, diggers, dump trucks...oh my!

2011-08-22T21:13:00.001-07:00

One of my besties came to visit from NOLA and brought her 3 year old son! From the moment they got in the car I knew I was going to learn a lot about all things construction vehicles! At this point I just classify everything as a truck or bulldozer...boy am I wrong! Anyway...we had so much fun! Finley and Zane loved following Grant around it was pretty cute!

WE hit the park in the morning then cooled of with some yummy fro-yo and then played out back until we couldn't stand the heat!

Grant can climb!!!

Zane going down the hill when he wasn't supposed to!

Holding hands...awwwww!!

Again, trying to cool off with popsicles!

On Wednesday, we had a few friends over to play! What fun!

Then we headed to Zilker to ride the train and get sno balls!!!

What a great visit! We miss you already!

Yeehaw!

2011-08-12T19:18:00.001-07:00

Finley was playing with her shoes today and wanted some rain boots that were too small. So I decided to pull out the hand-me-down cowboy boots from a neighbor and they were a hit! Here is my little fashionista in all her glory!

This girl loves her shoes!!!

Choo choo!

2011-08-12T10:17:00.001-07:00

We were invited to a friends birthday party with a train! I thought...they love trains, they can't get enough of trains, so they will love to ride on the train...not so much!!

Riding very cautiously...

Oh well...they did enjoy watching from afar and got excited every time they saw the train and would exclaim "choo choo"!

They of course loved the snacks and CUPCAKE!!!

Here they are watching the train leave on its last train ride!

Wishful thinking...

2011-08-12T10:02:00.001-07:00

Finley pulled out the warmest clothes in her closet the other day and put them on. I think she is wanting some relief from this heat too! Cooler weather please come!!

She did not keep it on very long...I think she realized she was hot!!!

The new playhouse

2011-08-05T20:28:00.001-07:00

Grammy and Papa Tank got Finley and Zane an early birthday present (that momma had to put together)!!! With our backyard still a dirt pile, I was desperate for an outdoor space for them to play. So I sweated it out during a couple nap times and built their house. Daddy built the foundation and it is just perfect! They request "house, house" all throughout the day! Now we just need to figure out how to install some A/C!! Thank you Grammy and Papa Tank!!!!

F and Z just doing some gardening after some pool time!

Finley wanted Tank to go in the house so she kept following her and saying "Tank house, Tank house...." and did not understand why Tank wasn't listening!

And Zane was just blowing kisses! I just love this new trick of his!

When it was time to go inside for dinner Finley ran into the house...and protested.

Needless to say they love their new house and so does momma!

Pigtails!!

2011-08-04T13:02:00.001-07:00

This may just be the cutest thing! If only she would keep them in!

More water fun!

2011-08-04T12:58:00.001-07:00

As I mentioned in an earlier post, I was determined to get both of my kids to like the splash pads by the end of the summer! I am pleased to say that they both do! Whew! That is just about the only thing we can do outdoors right now without bursting into flames! I even partake and run through the sprinklers myself...anything to stay cool in this 100+ heat!

GG even got in on the fun!

The other thing I love about this splash pad is that it has a covered playground...sweet!

They created quite the set up for bucket filling station!

Frequent flyers

2011-08-04T12:48:00.001-07:00

When we went to Kansas there were no direct flights so we had to connect both ways. We could not have asked Finley and Zane to have been any better under the circumstances. Looks like we might have some good travel companions...yeah!

Great entertainment provided by planes and luggage carriers!

We found an empty gate and let them loose!

Love this photo!

Zane: "Let's call this meeting to order!!!"

Our carry ons...precious cargo!

Our little helpers!

2011-08-01T11:55:00.001-07:00

We have been frequenting Home Depot lately and Finley and Zane are loving helping out! Just look at those smiles!!!

Hit the showers!

2011-07-30T15:02:00.001-07:00

While we are waiting to put grass in our backyard, it is currently a dirt box in which Finley and Zane love to play! So rather than wiping them down the other day we stuck them in our shower and hosed them off! They loved it! It was like a little splash pad! And those little bottoms are just irresistible!

Hat Party!

2011-07-28T11:37:00.001-07:00

Who knew wearing hats would be so much fun!

Kansas visit!

2011-07-27T21:11:00.000-07:00

Last week we travelled to Kansas for a beautiful burial service honoring Grampy. Although we were there under unfortunate circumstances, it was great to visit with family that we have not seen in a while and allowed them to meet Finley and Zane.

As you will see in the photos, Finley and Zane had a BLAST! There was lots of room to run around and that is exactly what they did! They also found plenty of toys to play with!

Zane kinda face-planted it in the dirt but just kept on going! I was able to catch him eventually to wipe it off!

Visiting with lots of family and friends...and this isn't even half of them!!

All the activities definitely wore out these two!

Our beloved Grampy

2011-07-24T12:28:00.001-07:00

On July 12, 2011 our beloved Grampy lost his battle with cancer. We are deeply saddened but will forever remember his love, generosity, and compassion towards his family and others.

Finley and Zane, your Grampy loved you so much and was so very proud of you! He would love to hold you for as long as you would let him! Recently, you loved to take him toast and tea in bed which would undoubtedly make him smile! He enjoyed watching you play and was amazed at how much energy you both have...you are always on the go! Zane, he loved it when you wore stripes...so handsome! Finley, you were his princess and he always said that “you must be drinking that pretty juice”! We will cherish and remember the wonderful time that we had with him. We will always love you, Grampy.

Although this has been an extremely difficult time for us, the outpouring of love and support from family and friends has been uplifting.

Happy July 4th!

2011-07-05T12:22:00.001-07:00

We took a break for about an hour to attend our neighborhood parade! We saw lots of neighbors that we had not seen in a while. It was a nice break for us and Finley and Zane!

After lunch we had some watermelon...to say Finley and Zane liked it would be an understatement! Zane wanted to eat the rind too and protested when I took it away!

Grammy and Papa Tank were able to celebrate with us too and played with the little ones while we worked!

Can you tell it is past nap time...they went right to sleep after a fun filled morning!

Playing catch up!

2011-07-05T09:30:00.001-07:00

Whew! Packing, unpacking, moving, waiting for inspections to be completed, and a holiday weekend makes for one tired momma! We moved our stuff out last Monday but could not stay there due to incomplete inspections. We have been staying at Gary's parents house in the meantime and are able to get things set up and move in ready for us when the time is right!

Zane was a great helper...moving mommy's shoe rack!

Helping load up GG's truck with more stuff!

Finley tried to pack Zane away...

Playing with the last of the toys at Grammy and Papa Tank's house that they let us rent for the last 10 months! We were so lucky to have such a wonderful house to live in during renovations!

Then the movers came...

Slumber party!

2011-06-24T19:12:00.001-07:00

Aunt Angela and Uncle Joe came to visit last weekend! It was great fun! We wanted to spend as much time with them as we could so we had a slumber party at GG and Grampy's house!

Uncle Joe and his mini me!

They just loved going for a ride on these cubes!

Dining with Grampy and sitting like big kids!

Playing cars with Aunt Angela!

Enjoying breakfast on Father's Day! Zane just hanging with the guys!

We miss you already Aunt Angela and Uncle Joe!

All boy and all girl!

2011-06-24T18:43:00.001-07:00

It is crazy to watch what toys Finley and Zane gravitate towards. Right now Zane is loving cars, trucks, buses, tape measures, and duck tape!

Finley loves the play kitchen, baby dolls, dress up (especially shoes!!), and purses!

Zane gearing up for a hard days work...

Finley loved playing with cousin Blakeley's princess shoes...she walked surprisingly well in those!!

Occasionally Zane will try on an accessory...but it never lasts long!! Resembles Elton John or Bono just a bit!!

Summer reading...

2011-06-16T20:26:00.001-07:00

Finley and Zane enjoy some reading in one of their favorite spots...the book box!

I tried to sneak a photo but they heard me once I started clicking!

here they are another day...

Our first popsicles!!!

2011-06-13T18:41:00.001-07:00

What I love about summer...the laid back vibe, lots of fun in the sun, swimming, splash pads, and... yummy summer treats! Finley and Zane enjoyed their first popsicle today...and Colin too! I think they liked it! Finley was a little shocked at first...maybe it was the cold or the tartness...who knows. But with Zane and Colin, it was love at first bite! Too cute!

Everybody tap your feet!!

They got all drippy and sticky then just played in the water table for a little bit and washed it off! Ahh, summertime!

Next on the list...snowballs or Amy's Ice Cream!

Our newest neighbors...

2011-06-11T13:17:00.001-07:00

GG and Grampy! We are loving being able to go over to their new house and play!

My little painters...

2011-06-11T13:10:00.001-07:00

We had fun with just a bucket of water and the cheapest paint brushes I could find!

Then Zane discovered that it was more fun to just dump all the water out and ask for "more" over and over and over again.

They moved on to painting the furniture too!

This is Zane telling me to "listen" as he just heard a car alarm go off.

Finley thought all brushes are alike and tried out the paint brush as a hair brush...nice.

Then she decided to wash her face...I stopped it there in fear that she was about to brush her teeth with it too!

Zane pointing out the "moon"!

Our cousins came to paint too!

We will try anything to play outside and stay cool! We will be "painting" again soon!

Vroom, vroom...riding in the car!

2011-06-08T20:55:00.001-07:00

This was a rare moment! Usually the do not want to share the car when it is their turn so when it was all smiles this morning I was eager to capture it! It was fun watching them actually share the car for once!!!

Pool Party

2011-06-06T12:32:00.001-07:00

We celebrated a friends first birthday at the pool this past weekend. It was great fun! Finley and Zane enjoyed splashing around in the big pool!

Happy Birthday to Trey!!

Coolest kids on the block!

2011-06-02T20:58:00.001-07:00

What you lookin' at!! I just love the strawberries all over his face too...he is just that cool!

Splash pad progress...

2011-06-01T12:50:00.001-07:00

We made some progress at the splash pad today! I went equipped with lots of toys from home. The didn't venture from this mini fountain but were playing in the water nonetheless!

We'll be back for sure! I NEED them to like the water this summer! It just gets too hot!!

Memorial Day fun!

2011-05-31T21:10:00.001-07:00

We had a fun filled Memorial Day Weekend! GG and Grampy came in and are slowly moving into their new Austin home!! We are so excited!!
GG brought Finley and Zane some new toys to have over at her house and they loved them...

Pool time!

Enjoying a train ride with GG!

Then we headed over to some friends to splash around and grill out! As always, the Anderson's were gracious hosts and we had a fabulous time hanging out with everyone!

Gearing up for summer!

2011-05-28T12:46:00.001-07:00

So based on our visit to the splash pad and the failed attempts at the backyard baby pools, I am working on fostering a love of water for Finley and Zane! (Just to clarify...they love their nice warm water in the bath tub but not so much with the colder water elsewhere)! This Momma hopes to be spending many days at the pool or splash pad this summer! So as I was cleaning out the yucky mess that the rain had left in our water tables, Finely and Zane showed some interest in the the hose and bubbles that the soap was creating. So I let Zane hold the hose and put some bubbles in the water table! They got all nice and soaked while playing in the COLD water! I'd say that is progress!

Zane is so proud!

Finley enjoyed washing the pinwheels!

Tank and Vader enjoyed the company outside too...and the water in the water tables! They were pretty thirsty from the 100 degree heat!

Splash Pad is open!!!!

2011-05-28T12:14:00.001-07:00

We spent quite a bit of time at the splash pads last summer and I've been looking forward to them opening back up. Well, they are up and running! We visited a new one after quite an adventure (massive field trip at one, city workers fixing another, and finally third one was a charm!)
Blakeley and Woods came too and LOVED it! Unfortunately Finely and Zane forgot how much they enjoyed it last year and weren't too keen on the idea of being splashed! I am determined to remind them of how fun it can be!

Ahh, back on dry ground!!

My little helpers...

2011-05-28T11:57:00.001-07:00

Zane gave momma a break and pulled Finley in the wagon!

Finley and Zane wanted in on all the painting that I've been doing lately! They were pretty interested in all the new "toys" that are out in the garage!

Notice that Finley picked out her shoes for the afternoon...either she is starting a new trend or is a bit indecisive like her momma!

Happy birthday, daddy!

2011-05-21T13:08:00.001-07:00

House Update!!

2011-05-16T13:15:00.001-07:00

The house is really coming along and Finley and Zane are able to walk around a little bit!! I think they are liking their new house!

Checking out the view!!!

Nature Center

2011-05-14T10:53:00.001-07:00

Our first visit to the Nature and Science Center was a hit! We looked at some animals and fossils then headed to the DINO PIT!! they got to dig for dino bones and put their feet in the sand (looks like we need a trip to the beach)!! It was a beautiful day...we will have to go back soon!

Finley and Zane were interested in some other visitors and ~~stared~~ smiled at them for a minute. Then Finley squatted behind Zane and played peek-a-boo! It was the cutest!

Where's Finley?

There she is!

Right after the peek-a-boo game, she gave Zane a great big hug! I hope this huggy phase sticks around!!! I love it!

Take a hike!

2011-05-14T10:27:00.001-07:00

We visited the Nature and Science Center and had a blast! They had lots of trails and once again Zane showed great confidence as he "hiked" the trails! He just smiles ear to ear...I love it!

18 month update (at 19+ months)

2011-05-06T21:16:00.000-07:00

Better late than never, right?!?! What can I say these 2 little munchkins are keeping me pretty busy these days. We have been plagued by more ear infections this month so I have pretty much moved into the pediatrician's office! We also had their 18 month check up on 4.15.11. the stats are as follows:

Finley:

weight-23.6 lbs
height-31 3/8 in
head-46.2
She is very proportional as everything was within the 25-50 percentile.

Zane:

weight-23.8 lbs
height-31 1/8 in
head-46.2
He is proportional as well with measurements within the 10-25 percentile.

Now on to the fun stuff...what are they doing now!!!

You are each others best friend...It makes me so happy when you crack each other up. You can be sitting in the car seats and playing peek-a-boo or reaching for each others hand. Or sitting in the double stroller peeking through the middle. Or peeking around a chair to play yet another game of peek-a-boo. Or laughing at each other in your cribs. Your laughter is precious and beautiful.

You can also be not so nice to each other...Zane, I am finding that you think it is funny to sit on your sister. Finley, you think this is not so funny.

Finley, you are pretty much repeating everything. You are also putting some 2 words together on our own..."mommy's car", "shoe on", etc.

Zane, you are now making wants known by asking for them!! Most of the time you want snack, water, daddy, up, milk!

You both love to play outside and protest when it is time to go inside. I can now take you to the park by myself...it is certainly a workout for me though!

You love your movies in the car. As much as I miss my radio, it is nice to be able to sing along with Elmo, Baby Einstein, or Thomas the Train as you enjoy your songs!

You both hate to have your face wiped after a meal...that is non-negotiable, I am sorry!

Zane, you love to throw things right now...balls, books, food, milk, you name it!

Finley, you are showing determination. You will sit and try to do things on your own...put a shape through a shape sorter, fit that puzzle piece in, take you shoes off and put a different pair on (my little fashionista!).

Zane, you LOVED your first time "hiking"...we went checked out a trail by a neighborhood park and you walked with such confidence in the "woods" and looked up at me with the sweetest smile. You were so proud!

Easter pics

2011-05-02T13:35:00.001-07:00

Wanted to post some pics from Easter! We spent Easter with some great friends. They hosted a fabulous brunch and egg hunt! Finley enjoyed all the festivities and Zane loved the lunch!!

Hoppy Easter

2011-04-26T12:06:00.001-07:00

We had an Easter to remember for sure! I think we were a bit ambitious in planning our Easter events. We planned to attend the 9:30 service and then head over to a brunch with friends. Well we made it half way through the service when our beeper from the nursery went off...Zane was not having it (a bit overwhelmed with the crowds). He was pretty worked up so I texted Gary to go pick Finley up so we could go. We drove around for a little bit while Zane rested and then went to the brunch. Finley had a blast but I think Zane was a bit off due to the nursery experience. It ended up being a great day...will be remembered always!

Hunting for eggs!

Love their little feet in these flip flops!

So proud!!!

Look what the Easter bunny brought!

Party time!

2011-04-16T13:27:00.001-07:00

We celebrated a friends 2nd birthday today! It was perfect weather and great company! What a super day!

It was so cute...Finley and Zane stood by daddy just like this for a good 5 minutes while he chatted with a friend! They love their daddy!

This cupcake didn't stand a chance...

Finley took some time to examine her cupcake first then enjoyed it!

Note to self: Get this ikea table for Finley and Zane. They loved it!

Thanks to GG for the precious outfits!

"at...at"

2011-04-16T13:05:00.001-07:00

Translation: hat. Finley is into wearing hats therefore Zane is too! Finley requests a "at" usually after nap time so then they wear them around for the rest of the afternoon! It is pretty darn cute!

Zane is also really into stuffed animals right now! He loves his puppies, horse, cow. My little animal lover!

Finley is so cute playing with the Little People! I definitely see lots of pretend play...she even has little "conversations". I wish I knew what all she was saying!

Bluebonnets 2011

2011-04-14T12:21:00.001-07:00

When I mentioned to Gary that I wanted to take pics of Finley and Zane in the bluebonnets this year his response was..."Again? I thought that was a one time thing. Didn't we take them last year?"
Muuuahhhahaha! He should know me better than that! Bluebonnet pictures are an annual tradition, honey! Anyway, he got out of it because we went with our cousins and Grammy! It was steamy and but got some cute pics!

See ya next year bluebonnets!!!

Then we got to play on the playground!

More fun with Grammy!

2011-04-08T12:47:00.001-07:00

We will be sad when Grammy has to go home! It has been great having her here! Thank you, Papa Tank, for sharing her with us for a couple of weeks!

Grammy and Papa Tank come to visit!

2011-04-03T11:54:00.000-07:00

Grammy and Papa Tank came in for a visit and Grammy gets to stay and play for a couple of weeks! Yay! It has been so great to have her in since most of the grandchildren have been under the weather a bit! It now seems like they are all on the mend so next week we hope to have more fun!

We took everyone to see the house and give them a tour! It was so nice to show it off! It is really coming along and we could not be happier with the progress and outcome!

Just playing around!

2011-04-03T11:46:00.001-07:00

We have been enjoying the pleasant weather and have been playing outside a lot...swinging, splashing in the water table, and running everywhere!

House update!

2011-03-22T19:51:00.000-07:00

Things are progressing nicely! We now have a roof with shingles, tyvek is partially up, and windows downstairs! All this has happened in 2 days! Wow!

Spring Break 2011

2011-03-22T12:51:00.001-07:00

We had a pretty quiet Spring Break here and just did our usual routine for the most part with the exception of the Rodeo and some pool time thanks to Sarah!! This was our first time since last summer that we have been “swimming” so I was anxious to see how they would like it! The water was FREEZING but Finley enjoyed it with a “whoa” here and there as she got splashed!

Zane wanted nothing to do with the frigid H2O…I don’t blame him! So instead he did a little yard work…just a little mowing, sweeping, and watering…this boy can do it all!

Gardening 101

2011-03-22T12:39:00.001-07:00

We had some yard work done last week and Finley and Zane were examining the work! Who knew fresh new mulch could be so fun!

Giddyup…our first Rodeo!

2011-03-22T12:34:00.001-07:00

We headed to the Rodeo last week and took in all the sights and sounds! We hit up Kidstown first where they had Farmer for a day, pony rides, petting zoo, puppet show and more!

We cheered on Blakeley and Woods as they rode the pony! Woods was a natural cowboy…giggled the whole time!!

Then we checked out all the animals in the Livestock show! We even got to see a BEVO!! Hook ‘em!

I braved it on my own and we had a good time (thankfully Sarah and Brant were there). I am looking forward to better planning next year so that daddy can go with us and we can experience all that the Rodeo has to offer!

Yee-haw!

Finley and Zane earn their keep!

2011-03-09T21:16:00.001-08:00

I am finally getting some help around here…’bout time!!

FYI…It may sound loud in the video but it really isn’t much louder than a hairdryer!

Nah…momma just got her new favorite toy…a 2-in-1 vacuum/hand vac (thank you, GG)!! I love it…it is lightweight for those small messes and I can just unsnap the hand vac and take it to the car to clean up all of F and Z’s leftovers! Oh and best of all… it is cordless and pretty darn powerful!

Zane’s form is impressive, huh?!!?

I was so surprised when Finley jumped in to help too. Normally she is terrified of the regular vacuum! It was a hit all around!

Happy Mardi Gras!!

2011-03-08T19:26:00.001-08:00

We celebrated in style thanks to Grammy (shirts) and GG (accessories)!!! Laissez les bon temps rouler!

Kite Fest 2011

2011-03-07T20:15:00.001-08:00

We headed down to the Kite Fest again this year. We’ve come a long way since last year when we were able to put Finley and Zane on a blanket and they stayed on it! This year we chased them around! It was so fun to watch their excitement as they took in all the sights and sounds!

Kite Fest 2010

Kite Fest 2011

I really think Zane thought he had won the lottery when someone’s kite landed right next to him! He wasn’t too happy when I pulled him away!

Like father, like son! Love these boys!

We were lucky to meet up with some of our friends too! It was a gorgeous day and was so happy enjoy it with friends and family!

The DiPasquale’s

The Peden’s

The Millers!

Until next year!!!

Splish Splash!

2011-03-05T19:30:00.001-08:00

Finley and Zane love love bathtime!

Here is just a little proof…

Outdoor fun!

2011-03-04T12:09:00.001-08:00

The weather has been super this week and we have spent a lot of time outside! They just love being outside!!

My little escape artists…

Then we headed inside for a little yoga…Finley is demonstrating the downward dog.

House update…

2011-02-28T12:52:00.001-08:00

Hello front porch!!!

The tubs are in…

Finley and Zane’s tub…

The guest tub…

Risky Business

2011-02-21T12:05:00.001-08:00

So as we were changing out of our church clothes Finley and Zane were enjoying some pantless freedom!! They rarely run around sporting just diapers but when they do I just can’t get enough of it! Just had to share…

Watch out Tom Cruise!!

My little diaper diva!!

Oh and check out the $1.99 table I got from IKEA!