The Meiers

Happy Birthday Ava & Drew.

2011-12-22T17:17:00.007-06:00

Ava & Drew turned 4 about 3 weeks ago. They were very excited for their birthday this year--seemed to really 'get it' for the 1st time.

We started off the day with birthday doughnuts. We never get doughnuts, so they thought that was great!

Then we headed to Grapevine Mills Mall to the Sealife Aquarium. It was so much fun. Noni, Dandy & Aunt Jess met us there & we just had the best time looking at all the different sea creatures.

After the aquarium, we went over to the Rainforest Cafe & met Uncle Will for lunch. It was a lot of fun, even though all the loud noises scared Drew a little. He still seemed to enjoy his lunch & all the things to look at.

Dear sweet, independent, beautiful Ava,

I love your zest for life. Your crazy energy. Your infectious smiles. Your crazy laughs. You light up anyone's day that sees you. You are so much fun & so very funny. I love when you're happy. I love you when you're moody. I love how you love Drew. I love how you tolerate Pres(I know you love her, too!). I love watching you play with your cars, and how you love getting your hair fixed. I love how you love to sleep & would sleep all day--if your brother & sister could stay quiet! :) I love listening to your prayers. I love seeing you start to 'come out of your shell' & want to go to church & see the other kids. I love how you like to play alone, but still need Drew to be close.

I love you!!

Mom

Dear affectionate, sensitive, adorable Drew,

I love your snuggles. Your nonstop energy. Your sweet smile. Your super big hugs. You are so sweet & caring. I love playing with you. I love you when you're happy. I love you when you cry(and even when you pitch your fits!). I love how you try to play alone(because Ava does), but can't quite enjoy it without her. I love how you love Ava. And how you love Pres. I love watching you with your friends. I love listening to your (sometimes super long) prayers. I love watching you with the girls. And how you're already learning to be their caring, protector brother.

I love you!!

Mom

Big Birthday Party

2011-12-20T08:30:00.003-06:00

We decided to throw a joint birthday party for the kids. It was great. We got a bounce house (Cars!) & a bounce slide. The kids LOVED IT!!! We may do bounce slides for everyone's birthday from now on. It was so much fun. Almost all of their friends were able to make it & it was a beautiful day.

Happy Birthday Presley

2011-10-10T07:31:00.003-05:00

I've gotten very bad about posting on the blog lately. In the past, it's because there's not much going on. The last month or so, it's because there's TOO much going on! Starting in September, we've been BUSY. Ava & Drew are doing Cubbies on Sunday night & KidsCore on Wednesday nights. We have Bible Study on Tuesday mornings & Moms2Moms all but 1 Wednesday morning/month. I've started working for Weight Watchers, so that's at least 1 afternoon/week that I'm gone. Add in a playdate every now & then & always something to do on the weekend..and free time....what's that!?
The 1st week or so, the kids had a hard time adjusting(I mean, US...busy? Never!) But, they seem to be doing a lot better with it now & Ava & Drew are really starting to make some friends(so cute!).

We are also right in the middle of lots of birthdays. My mom's was (a little over) 2 weeks ago. We celebrated by going to the zoo & Chickfila on the day, then when my sister could make it in, we had 2 more celebrations over the weekend.

Last Thursday was Presley's birthday. She has been having a blast opening presents & eating cake AND cupcakes. We did McDonald's for her birthday lunch & pizza for dinner with some yummy cupcakes. Yesterday was my dad's birthday & we had a combined 'party' (Jess joined us) with mom's lasagna & more cake.

Ava & Drew are loving this birthday season--even though it's not theirs. They enjoy seeing others open presents & sharing in the cake. And they just talk about when their birthday is. We're already excited about that!

We still have one more birthday to look forward to before A&D turn 4. Happy early birthday Uncle Casey!

Happy Birthday girl. She was a little tired of taking pictures at this point. Still looks super cute, though! :)

Big brother & sister. 'We love birthdays!'

Sweet, silly, sometimes grumpy, Presley. Happy happy birthday my little love. God so blessed our family by giving you to us. One of the best surprises I've ever received. You brighten our days with your super silliness, your goofy smiles & your constant talk. The doctor asked me if you were putting any 2 word sentences together...girl, you're already up to 7 & 8 word sentences! You love your brother & sister & are happiest when they let you play with them. They love you too.....and more & more let you play. This past week, you've told me you love me...and cake. Pizza & brownie bites are your favorites & you love it when Drew sings to you. You are still quite the early riser...you started your birthday at 5am! We're kind of hoping you'll grow out of that soon. Your favorite songs are ABCD's, Jesus loves me & 'red, yellow, white'(your title for Jesus loves the little children).

I love you, goose.

You are(1 of) my sunshine(s),

Momma

Photo shoot after church yesterday. We got some pretty good ones.

Aren't they precious!??

August from my phone

2011-09-01T08:03:00.005-05:00

In no particular order...and I have no idea why the pic size is different...

Thanks to Noni & Dandy's move, we are now the temporary owners of the 'popper' & 2 BIG Lightning Mcqueens!

Drew being crazy:

Ava's trip to the zoo with mom & dad:

Ava learned how to write her name:

Silly pic for Aunt Jess to show off their Italy shirts she got them:

Pres snuggling in mom & daddy's bed:

Reading books...in the bathroom:

Feeding the birds at the zoo:

Trying on dresses that were mommy's & Aunt Jess' when they were little:

What we've been doing.....

2011-08-01T07:51:00.003-05:00

Last Sunday (7/24/11)
Playing outside at our new house:

Grocery shopping:

Playing in our new house:

Yesterday (7/31/11)

Sunday Snapshots: boots, bandaids & funny faces

2011-07-12T13:20:00.002-05:00

7/3/11

Not sure what's up with Pres & Drew's smiles these days. But, they make me laugh!! Drew insisted on wearing his cowboy boots--with shorts at 1st. Fortunately, we were able to talk him into jeans. 100+ out & he HAD to wear the boots! :)

Ava refused to take her bandaids off for church. Her leg is NOT cut to pieces....really, they're more of a fashion statement these days! (But, they pretty much only get them at Noni's house. At home, "no blood, no bandaid!")

Father's Day

2011-06-21T13:52:00.004-05:00

We didn't have time before church to do any pictures or give any gifts, so as soon as we got home from church I grabbed the camera.

Waiting for daddy to change clothes so they could give him his cards & candy:

Pres jumped the gun a little

Father's day hug

Then we headed to my parent's house for a yummy lunch of lasagna & cake.

Sunday Snapshots

2011-06-21T13:40:00.000-05:00

6/12/11

If looks could kill....

Sunday Snapshots

2011-06-05T21:37:00.003-05:00

TODAY!!! :)

Not really thrilled with Sunday pictures...

And now we're all smiling...

Baby pool

2011-06-01T08:16:00.003-05:00

Our backyard is completely shaded...in the morning. We decided to play outside after naps yesterday & I got immediate complaints that the slides were too hot. I had the great idea to get the water hose & cool them off. The kids(except for Presley--who was terrified of the hose) loved the idea. I then remembered seeing a baby pool when I was going through garage sale stuff. So, I blew it up, filled it up & told the kids to hop in.
They loved it! And being all wet makes you go down the slide SUPER fast! :) Think we may have to get a slip n slide this summer!

Memorial Day

2011-06-01T08:13:00.002-05:00

Pop-ice time!

Sunday Snapshots

2011-06-01T08:01:00.003-05:00

5/29/11

Ava is apparently not a big fan of after church pictures. This was the best picture I got of her! :) Silly girl!

Silly(and late) Sunday Snapshots

2011-06-01T07:51:00.004-05:00

5/22/11
Ava & Drew didn't really want their pictures taken. Pres, on the other hand, was cheesing it up! :)

TV buds

2011-05-09T08:30:00.002-05:00

While I was trying to get some pictures downloaded this morning, Pres was being a little needy. Drew came over, took her by the hand & led her over to his chair. They sat & watched TV like this for close to 20 minutes, while I did some blogging! So cute! (Ava is still asleep!)

Mother's Day

2011-05-09T08:21:00.002-05:00

5/9/11

We had a wonderful Mother's Day. Church, home for pictures & to change clothes. Then we headed to Noni & Dandy's, where Daddy, Dandy & Uncle Casey cooked lunch for everyone. Yummy burgers, fries & mac & cheese...and red velvet cake!! We came home for naps, then back over to swim for a while. Whoo, it was cold! But, the kids had a blast. And everyone was worn out last night! :)

Sunday snapshots...a week behind

2011-05-09T08:19:00.002-05:00

5/1/11

New bikes

2011-05-09T08:15:00.002-05:00

4/30/11

I decided a while ago that Ava & Drew needed 'big kid bikes'. They were getting a little big for their tricycles...though they still loved riding them. So, a couple Saturdays ago, we headed to Walmart. Ava fell in love with her bike immediately & began riding up & down the aisle while we tried to decide for Drew. He just didn't want to do it in the store. But, once we got home, he started figuring it out.

Needed to lower the seat a little

Pres tried to ride her 'new' tricycle(hand me down from Ava), but after her 1st crash decided she wasn't really interested.

Easter 2011

2011-04-25T08:24:00.002-05:00

We asked the Easter bunny to come to our house Friday night because Sunday mornings are always such a rush to get ready for church. And, at least this year, the kids don't know the difference!

Easter morning:

It was very much easier to get good pics this year. It helps that all 3 kids love to pose for the camera! I'm very happy with how they turned out. Even with Pres' new crazy smile! :)

Giant car fort

2011-04-25T08:17:00.001-05:00

Ava's comment after getting this done: "we don't have enough cars"...and she was serious! :)

Sunday Snapshots & Easter Egg Hunt

2011-04-25T08:12:00.003-05:00

4/17/11

After naptime, we were invited to an Easter Egg Hunt at a friend's house.

Drew & Ava were on their 'A-game' :)

Drew even found the special egg! (I think the adults were more excited than he was...you can't eat money! :))

Presley at 18 months

2011-04-25T07:53:00.002-05:00

Ok, so it's almost a month late....but on 4/6, Pres was 18 mos!

She is 27#8oz(88%) & 34in(97%). Still sucking her thumb, funny but has quite a temper too! Thinks she is as coordinated as Ava & Drew..which doesn't always turn out well for her! :)

"Please take your thumb out of your mouth"

(Adorable dress by Noni!)

1st day of framing

2011-04-10T21:05:00.002-05:00

The kids are so excited about the house we're building. We've talked about it since we first made the decision. We would drive by the lot, show them the plans & talk about where their rooms would be. Now that the work has started, they want to drive by every time we get in the car(we average about twice/day! ;)). They are so adorable about it.

This was on the 1st day of framing. Jeremy took Ava over 1st & I got a couple pictures before Drew, Pres & I headed over to walk around.

Here's Ava looking out her window:

Fingerpainting....

2011-04-10T21:00:00.003-05:00

We decided to let Pres try fingerpaints for the 1st time. Ava & Drew were excited, of course! Pres didn't really know what to think...

Didn't just jump in, but she did get into after a bit. Unfortunately, since I was trying to save the carpet, walls, table & chairs from getting painted, I couldn't get any more pictures. But, we had fun!:)

Presley in trouble....

2011-04-10T20:50:00.002-05:00

Presley has been getting in trouble lately. She seems to be a little hard-headed & stubborn, so she ignores all warnings....and she's started hitting. So, often I have to put her in her crib for a little time out. You can tell she's very upset about being in trouble: Oh, well...I'll just play with my dolls:

Ok, I'm done with this...get me out NOW!

Just having fun

2011-04-07T13:05:00.002-05:00

Dancing with The Backyardagins before church:

Sunday Snapshots

2011-04-07T07:52:00.002-05:00

4/3/11

Ava's doing 'twirls' for the camera. :)

The Rest of March

2011-04-04T15:48:00.003-05:00

Well, I told myself I was going to be a better blogger....and I seem to get on a roll for a few days, but then.... I do have an excuse: all 3 kids were sick for about a month! But, we're all well now. So, I'll just do a brief picture recap of March. At the office for the EWC ribbon cutting. Ava & Pres are wearing their newest smocked dresses by Noni. Me & my girls.

Home from church. Smiling for the camera.

Having some alone time....

While Drew & Pres play in the playroom. They had some game going on...though I'm not sure Pres knew what was going on! :)

Birthday memory craft

2011-03-17T14:57:00.002-05:00

Ava, Drew & Pres sent me roses for my birthday & they were a little upset when they started to die. So I came up with a craft idea. They told me which rose they had picked out & I pulled off some petals for them to glue w/ the cards that were attached.

They had a lot of fun working on it & I have something to remember my birthday by.

Hard at work:

Pres enjoying some crayon time:

New pants by Noni

2011-03-06T19:32:00.001-06:00

Noni made the girls some adorable pants. They can be worn with pretty much any top, like jeans, but are MUCH cooler & more comfortable.

And not to be left out...Drew jumped in for some camera time:

Silly photo shoot

2011-03-06T19:05:00.003-06:00

A week or so ago, I decided I wanted to get some pics of all 3 kids together. I thought it shouldn't be too hard, since Ava & Drew understand me well & Pres will do what they do. I was wrong. 1st, Ava pitched a fit....I finally got her calmed down in time for Pres to take a nap. When I got back, Drew was ready to have a tantrum. So, I did not get ANY pics this day of all 3 of them...but, some weren't too bad.

Pres watching Ava scream & cry:

Just after she calmed down....red face, sad eyes:

Now, we're getting happier.

After Drew's fit, the 2 of them decided they DID want to take pictures...

And more pictures...

More...

....

Now we're just being silly :)

Sleepy.....time for naps!

Into EVERYthing!

2011-02-22T12:52:00.003-06:00

As soon as he turns his head, she's in Drew's tent:

You can see, I had set up 3 different places for Pres to watch TV(her rocker, chair & rocking giraffe)....she chooses Ava's chair. Fortunately(for Pres), Ava was not home....

She has become fascinated with our kitchen cabinets. In our old house, they all had locks on them....we didn't bother here because we (hopefully) won't be in this house long. But, she is making me wish for them at times!

More craft firsts

2011-02-17T10:59:00.002-06:00

Decided to try scissors today. They did very well with them...though I was a little nervous we'd lose a finger! ;)

Pres got to color for the 1st time at home. We will give her the crayons we get at restaurants occasionally, but she's never seemed very interested. This morning, though, I needed her to leave Ava, Drew & the scissors alone.....and got her to color...

New clothes, Big Brother & Tents

2011-02-17T10:48:00.002-06:00

Showing off her new outfit....

Easter shirts..

Drew loves to 'help' me with Presley. He holds her hand & walks her to the door so I can get all my stuff in. Once in the house, he walks her to where we take off shoes & jackets(when they're wearing them) & helps her get them off. Such a good big brother.

Drew & Ava got these adorable tents from Aunt Amy for Christmas. Since we have limited space right now, I can't leave them out all the time, but these 2 early risers needed a distraction this morning! I honestly thought Pres might fall asleep in there....but, unfortunately she boycotted the am nap! :/

(notice how Drew is in ALL of these pictures?! he has become quite the camera hog lately!!:))

"We don't need mommy"

2011-02-15T13:08:00.003-06:00

As I finished cleaning up lunch today, I realized I didn't hear any kids....uh oh. My 1st thought is trouble! ;) BUT, what I found is 3 kids who just really didn't need me for a while:
Yes, she got out ALL of the books, but she was happy....so *I* was happy! :)

They were in Ava & Drew's closet(they don't share a room anymore, but still share a closet), which has become one of their favorite places to play!!

I was able to get their bathroom cleaned & vacuumed with no interruptions(probably about 30 mins!). While it was nice to be able to get some work done....I don't know if I'm ready for them to be this big!! :/

Glue Sticks

2011-02-15T13:05:00.002-06:00

At storytime last Friday, Ava & Drew used glue sticks & foam hearts to make valentines. They had so much fun & were literally the LAST kids still working...they didn't want to stop! By the time we got home, some of the hearts were falling off & Ava was asking for 'blue' sticks so she could fix it. Unfortunately, we didn't have any glue sticks, but I promised her I would get some at Walmart soon.
I picked some up yesterday, along with construction paper, safety scissors & a foam kit(shapes, letters & pieces to cut). They had a blast. **I did NOT let them try the scissors yet...even though they're 'safety' scissors, it still makes me nervous. Maybe next time! :)

Storytime love :)

2011-02-11T13:25:00.003-06:00

This was just too cute not to post. This morning, I took Ava & Drew to the library for storytime. They were waiting for the story to start & I looked up & saw them hugging. Adorable. They have been getting more affectionate with each other & Presley lately, but it's usually pretty quick & I can't get the camera. This hug lasted a while, though, so I was able to catch it! :)

From my phone....

2011-02-10T15:31:00.004-06:00

January & 1/2 of Feb pics from my phone:

Pres is almost big enough to climb up by herself
1/3/11

Enjoying a nice, sunny day outside:

1/3/11

Wagon ride. It's not technically built for 3, but they don't seem to mind. :)

1/7/11

At Pres' 15 month well check. She got all of her toys, put them on the doctor's stool, then pushed them all over the room.

1/20/11

Our playroom gets REALLY cold when it's cold outside. Sometimes we have to wear jackets & hats....though more often than not lately, it's too cold to play back there at all!! (We are SO ready for warmer weather!)

1/10/11

After playing outside in the snow, it was time for hot chocolate! YUM

2/4/11

Pres has LOVED playing in the snow.

Snow days!

2011-02-10T13:28:00.003-06:00

1st Snow Day(1/9/11)

2nd Snow Day(2/5/11):

Pres was really missing riding her car!

Drew decided he needed to take pictures too!

Love our snowman!

With accessories:

The kids have had a BLAST for aproximately 20 mins on both days it has snowed so far this year. Then we spend the rest of the day(or week) wishing for warmer weather so we can play outside. But, we make the best of it! :)

Christmas Day

2011-01-02T13:52:00.008-06:00

Christmas morning started bright & early for us(as most days do). Pres & Drew were both up by 6:30 & Jeremy & I had the difficult task of keeping them quiet & happy in our room. Santa had left all the gifts in the 'big TV room' & it was too cold to put them in the playroom & shut the door. So, TV & begging was what we relied on. By 8:00, we gave up & woke Ava up. Once we got to the gifts, she didn't seem to mind! ;)
All of Pres' toys & Ava & Drew's big toys(scooters & the laptops) were unwrapped. But, Santa must know how much Ava & Drew like unwrapping gifts & their stocking stuff was wrapped!

checking it out:
Pres sitting on Ava's new 'waptop':

playing with their 'Macs' they got from Aunt Jess & new cars from Santa:

figuring out the scooters:

They are actually pretty good at them already. Although, we've only gotten to ride them outside once.

Around 9:30, we headed to Noni & Dandy's for a huge, yummy brunch & gifts. No pics of the food, but trust me...it was GOOD!

As soon as breakfast was over, it was apparent that Pres needed a nap. So, we put her down & the decided NOT to wait on her to open presents---she wouldn't know the difference anyways! ;)

Getting ready for the gift opening:

First, Ava & Drew opened all of their gifts...

Then, they got started on everyone elses :)

Pres woke up just as we were finished & about to head outside....Drew helped her with her stocking:

In the garage for the big reveal....what did Santa bring them?

Drumroll please...... IT'S our very own.....

LIGHTNING MCQUEENS!!!!

Pres also got her own car and really seems to love it....

Opening all of her gifts:

We had SUCH a wonderful day. After feeding the kids lunch, we came back home for naps. Soon after that, headed back over for a wonderful Christmas dinner.

Christmas Eve

2011-01-02T13:41:00.002-06:00

What a wonderful Christmas we had this year. I was able to get our tree up a week before(which is good considering we had just moved the week before that!) & had gifts wrapped under it. The kids loved it & talked about it often(mostly worrying about why there wasn't a star on top--and I didn't really know the answer, b/c I thought I had a star!).

On Christmas Eve, we went out to my parent's house & had a 'snack' dinner & dessert(of course) with Noni, Dandy, Aunt Jess & Uncle Casey. Then, even though Noni said we couldn't open any gifts, we talked her into letting us do the ones from each other. This year, both Ava & Drew had a blast opening gifts & weren't ready to stop. They seem to especially love their Mr/Mrs Potato Heads! :)

This is a picture in front of our little tree just before we left. Sadly, we forgot our camera, so don't have any others of Christmas Eve.

At least I'm getting it done before the end of the year...

2010-12-21T21:21:00.002-06:00

I would have liked to have done this post on Ava & Drew's actual birthday, but since we were in the middle of moving, it just didn't happen.

Ava, at 3 years, you:
*Are a little bit taller than Drew(probably still 90%, but we haven’t had your 3yo appt yet)
*Wear mostly 4T(I hate that they cut girl’s shirt smaller than boys)
*Can be quite picky about what you eat: ‘breakfast bar’ for breakfast, pbj for lunch
*Are more likely to try new foods than Drew…..unless he tells you that you don’t like it!
*Have curly, curly hair—in the back. In the front it is straight as a board!
*NEVER stop moving. You run most everywhere & bounce when you are seated
*Don’t talk quite as much as Drew, but close. Though you tend to mumble a lot, so I’m not quite as good at translating you.
*Are hilarious….and know it. You love to make us all laugh, but especially Drew. When the 2 of you get going, it is hard to stop it.
*can have quite a temper…..and tend to scream & bite when you get mad
*don’t get mad TOO often
*are tolerating Presley more & more & even *want* to play with her sometimes!
My dear, sweet firstborn,
3 years old already. Sometimes it seems like you just started walking. The time has flown & sometimes I worry that that means I’m not giving you enough of me. But, you are so sweet & take what I can give you & still love me as much as you can. I love that you are now spontaneously telling me “I love you”. While you are often my crazy, excitable, shrieking child, you can also be a sweet little cuddlebug, who is quiet & a little bit shy around strangers. I love all sides of you….I even love your scary mad side!  Watching you grow up & learn about the world around you is so much fun. I love you so much sweetheart!

Drew, at 3 years, you:
*Are slightly shorter than Ava
*Wearing mostly 3T
*are a VERY picky eater. The most common thing we hear from you at the table it I DON’T LIKE THIS---before you ever try it! Cinnamon waffles, pbj & pretzels are your staples….it’s very seldom we can get you to try something new
*NEVER stop talking. Questions, answers, discussions…..you are so very inquisitive. I feel like I’ll be catching up to you forever. It’s wonderful
*LOVE to learn. Doing ‘letters’ (starfall.com) is your favorite thing
*Are still a bit whiny. But I think it’s getting better as you get older!
*Can be very bossy … especially to Ava. But, she doesn’t seem to mind it..for the most part
*Love to play with Presley. Lately you’ve been wanting to hold her—not a great idea since she weighs almost as much as you. But I love that you love her!
My sweet little boy,
I am amazed that 3 years have already passed. My time & attention is so divided, yet somehow you make me feel like I’m doing a wonderful job. You are so sweet & silly. I love listening to you sing….especially when you make up your own songs. You are so much fun & love to play. I look forward to watching you grow & learn…..I just hope I can keep up with you. I love you.

Happy 3rd Birthday Ava & Drew

2010-12-15T20:46:00.003-06:00

Ava & Drew have had quite a birthday celebration this year. It all started with their birthday party on Dec 4 at The Big Bounce. This place opened last spring & since the beginning of fall, the kids & I have gone about once a week to play. All 3 of them LOVE it, so I knew it would be a great place to have their birthday party--especially since we would be leaving soon after.
Everyone had a blast and the Lightning McQueen & Dinoco Lightning McQueen cakes were a big hit, too. )If you're in the Austin area & need a cake that looks great & tastes any better, call Emily at Emily's Cakes !)

Birthday boy enjoying the icing on his cake:

Pretty birthday girl....also only eating the icing!

They continued the celebration with Noni & Dandy on their actual birthday(Jeremy & I were finishing up packing for the big move). They had yummy cupcakes this time.

And, today, finally birthday presents with us. Unfortunately I don't have pictures, but we had fun!

November from my phone

2010-11-30T15:20:00.003-06:00

Since our house has been on the market, our camera has been packed away in the back of the closet & we kind of keep forgetting to get it out. So, most of our memories from the last month are on our phones. Fortunately, they take fairly good pics....at least for blogging purposes! We've had a good month. The kids & I spent a weekend in Lindale to give Jeremy some quiet time to work & I went to a good friend's baby shower. We rode the train at the mall. On Thanksgiving day, we went to Seguin to Jeremy's parent's house. We had a good time, but (of course) forgot our camera! In the midst, I've been packing up the house.

These are in reverse order. It's much too difficult & time consuming to rearrange them.

This past weekend, Ava & Drew spent in Lindale so I would have lots of time to pack & Jeremy could work. Saturday morning we had a showing, so Jeremy, Pres & I went to Kirby Lane for breakfast. Pres was pretty patient during the 30 minute wait. Here she is looking outside while playing with her phone:

Ava & Drew have found a new love for their megablocks & ask for them almost daily. Here is a superfort that they(with a little help) put together.

Cheering on the Aggies! What a great year!

Ava finally agreed to wear boots. My mom has been trying to get her some for a year & Ava has refused to put them on. I think Drew having his cowboy boots swayed her opinion of them!

Drew tried to throw one of his cars up in the tree....it fell & cut him between his lip & nose. Very sad. (a day later, while pitching a fit, he threw himself at the stairs & busted his top lip. he really looked pretty pitiful for a while!)

All 3 kids love to be outside. Before Pres was really walking, I would put her in the wagon & we'd either follow Ava & Drew while they rode their trycycles, or she'd just hang out while they played. Now that she's walking, she'll only consent to being in the wagon if we're going to check the mail. She loves to 'chase' Ava & Drew!

We made a fort & everyone played HAPPILY together.

We try to get out of the house at least 3 mornings a week. Usually, we do the bounce house one day, a playdate somewhere another day & go to HEB(or sometimes Target) the last. Most of the time when we go to HEB(the grocery store), we just go to look at toys & get 1 or 2 items. When we do that, we just get a regular cart; Drew & Pres ride in the top & Ava rides in the big part(her preference). They get to walk up & down the toy aisles, then ride for the rest of the trip. On this day, we actually had to buy our groceries for the week, so we got the BIG cart. It was the 1st time we used this one & they got a kick out of it...for a little while! Then they wanted to walk. But, we got everything we needed!

And Pres in her costume

2010-11-04T15:34:00.002-05:00

Even though she didn't get to trick or treat, she still looked adorable.

The rest of October

2010-11-04T15:04:00.007-05:00

October has been a busy month for us. Between Pres' birthday celebrations, playdates & travelling(among other things), we've not had a minute to spare around here. These are a few of the things that have kept us busy.

A couple weekends ago, Jeremy took Ava & Drew to get pumpkins so they could color on them & then make jack-o-lanterns. They got a kick out of writing on them:

After they were finished, we put them on the back porch & every morning (&several times throughout the day) they would go to the back door & talk to them. Very cute!

I love pumpkin bread & had been wanting a recipe for a while, so I asked my friend Vanessa @ Feed My Monkeys for one. She shared hers & I asked Ava & Drew for help. Here they are greasing the bread pans. (We LOVE our Learning Tower, by the way!) The 1st batch didn't turn out great because I over cooked them, but we will try again soon!

Here's Pres watching the baking from the doorway. She stayed pretty happy for the time it took.

Last week, I decided it was time to try *real* fingerpaints. We tried it a few months ago with pudding & they seemed to enjoy that. Ava was even more into it this time.

We have been 'storing' Raffi the Rocking Giraffe in Presley's room. A week or so ago, I was playing with her in her room (one of the mornings she decided to get up at 5:30am) & she took an interest in it. So, I brought it downstairs & she's had a blast with it! She learned very quickly how to get on & off all by herself! :)

Ava & Drew are also enjoying having 'him' out again!

Last picture & I KNOW someday Drew will not be happy with me for sharing this, but right now he thinks it's funny ! Ava & Drew have started wanting to sleep together. I don't mind & so they've been hanging out in each other's rooms for a while after bedtime(for the record, they have yet to *actually* sleep in the same room--they always get in trouble for being too loud or start fighting!). One night they decided to raid Ava's drawers & change pants. Hilariously, the 'pants' that they picked out were actually TIGHTS! I'm just surprised they were able to get them on by themselves!

Trick or Treat

2010-11-04T14:43:00.004-05:00

Halloween was spent with my family this year. We had a great time & the kids experienced a few 'firsts'.

First cookout:

Pres really seemed to enjoy it. She was not at all distracted by being outside!

Ava & Drew enjoyed it, too. Though they probably didn't eat as much as Pres.

Drew mostly focused on the buns:

After our cookout, we got ready for their First trick or treating. Drew & Ava had decided they would go as Woody & Buzz from Toy Story.

A shy Buzz Lightyear:

res was supposed to be a giraffe, but she fell asleep on the way, so we left her in the car.

I wasn't sure how they'd do, walking up to strange houses(we knew the people) & asking for candy. But, they had no problem with it. They were even pretty good to say thank you everytime! :)

Pouring out the candy after:

We had a great time & I'm so glad we decided to go this year. Ava & Drew really enjoyed it & it's always fun to see them having fun! :)

What's going on...

2010-10-22T10:02:00.009-05:00

Well, apparently we got past Presley's birthday & (as far as the blog goes)time stopped. Then I checked the calendar & 2 weeks have gone by with no posts. I don't know where the time went.

We celebrated Pres' birthday with Jeremy's family the following weekend. I know I have pics...but, the camera has been put away & I have not found the motivation to dig it out. I'll get to it....someday! ;)

We took Presley's 1 yr/A&D's 3 yr/family pictures last Wednesday. Instead of doing them at a studio like we always have, we decided to find a photographer(Neely Brook Photography) who would take them outside. She suggested a local park & we met there at 9:00am(VERY crazy morning trying to get all 5 of us in picture-ready condition AND leave the house BY 8:00am--but we made it! And I think we all look good! :)). We really had a good time taking the pictures. When she was doing individuals of one child, the other 2 could roam around & look at the flowers/water/peacocks & they stayed HAPPY!! And I think they turned out pretty well, too. (If you go to her website, you can look at some of our pics on her blog)

Ava & Drew spent the following weekend at my parent's house. Drew had decided that he needed some cowboy boots like Dandy, so Friday they went shopping for boots.

You can kind of see them in this picure of them at the Pumpkin patch. He has worn them at every opportunity since & LOVES them(& looks adorable, too!).

While they played in Lindale, Pres & I ran errands here. I have to keep her busy when A&D aren't here, because she gets SO grumpy--I guess it's because she misses them ... which is sweet, but it also makes for a very tired mommy at the end of each day! :)

And here's a bunch of random pics (taken with my phone) from the last couple of weeks:

I'm not exactly sure...but, it was SO funny(if the hysterical laughter under there was any indication)

Pres has started giving(slobbery, open mouth) kisses:

We've been going to the bounce house almost weekly. All 3 of the kids LOVE it & for only $10, it's a great way to run off A LOT of energy. Last week, there was a new HUGE inflatable this is only about 1/4 of it. It's great b/c I can get in one corner with Pres(yes, I have to get in sometimes) & A&D can play on the big slide & other fun things.

Ava & Drew have always loved puzzles, but have been getting bored with the big wooden puzzles for a while. My mom got them a small(10ish) pc jigsaw a month ago & they loved it & figured it out quickly. So, when we were at Target early last week, I saw these 24 pc jigsaw puzzles. They got them(for good behavior) & did great at putting them together. They're already almost too easy for them. Guess we have to go bigger!

Well, that pretty much catches us up. I need to do better at taking pics(& then downloading them).....but we seem to keep pretty busy around here(maybe it's the 3 kids...who knows! :)).

Happy Happy Birthday Presley!

2010-10-08T13:54:00.004-05:00

Ok, yes, her birthday was Wednesday...but, 2 days late is better than nothing, right!?

We didn't do much for her birthday. Just our normal Wednesday stuff(Bible study, lunch, naps, play outside), then had a couple gifts for her that evening.

Here's our birthday girl all dressed up & ready to head to the church:

Yay! Daddy's home & it's time to celebrate! :)

Where's the food?!

They come bearing gifts! (I decided not to bother wrapping them. We didn't have a lot of time before Pres needed to go to bed, so it was quicker this way!)

They're a hit! (& of course, Ava & Drew love the new toys, too!)

Presley, at 1 year old you:

*are 25 lbs(>95%) & 31 1/2 in(>95%)

*wearing 18-24mos clothes (& some 2T)

*still nursing 3-4x/day(and at least once at night!)

*trying to walk....you'll take a couple steps & get so excited you lose your balance & fall over

*say dada, momma & drew...uhoh, hi & byby.

*"talk" ALL the time...

*make us laugh all the time....from your dancing to music no one else hears, to pulling up your shirt & grabbing your rolls & giggling...you are hilarious!

*LOVE Ava & Drew. When they 'let' you play with them, you are SO happy!
*are generally happy...as long as you're getting your way & are right in the middle of whatever is going on ;)

My sweet baby girl, I cannot believe you are already ONE! Time as just flown by & we have loved every minute. I'm so glad you & Ava are becoming friends & that you are big enough to withstand Drew's hugs! :) Hearing the 3 of you laughing together just swells my heart & brings joyful tears to my eyes! I love how your face lights up & you crawl as fast as you can to the door when I say daddy's home. You make me feel so special when I get home after being away from you for a bit & you get so excited that you can't hold still. How I wish you could stay little forever, but I know that we're going to have even more fun as you grow up. I love you P! :)

Party #1 of the Birthday Festival

2010-10-04T21:10:00.004-05:00

On Saturday we had party #1 of Presley's 'Birthday Festival'. We celebrated with Noni, Dandy & Aunt Jess & had a great time.

Here's the birthday girl cheesing for the camera:

Checking out the cupcake:

A little dancing before tasting:

1st taste:

That's my girl! :)

Time for gifts. Had to lose the shirt because it was covered in icing! Drew helping, of course.

'I did it!'

Ava came to help at the end.

Also, want to mention that Pres is really starting to walk now. Today she took about 10 steps. She gets so excited that she often trips herself, but doesn't get discouraged. I guess it helps to have Ava & Drew cheering her on! :)

Cheerios for All!

2010-09-20T21:50:00.001-05:00

We all love cheerios! :)

Girly girl

2010-09-20T21:48:00.003-05:00

Pres attached onto one of Ava's purses the other day & she loves it. Although it would really help if she started walking...it's awfully hard to crawl when you keep getting tangled up in your purse!

Poor Pres

2010-09-20T21:35:00.001-05:00

Well, Ava has officially accepted Pres:
(if you can't tell, the blue circle is around bite marks)

New clothes & the bouncy seat

2010-09-18T14:28:00.002-05:00

Thanks, Noni, for making our new dresses & Ava's outfit! Love you!

We're trying to declutter the house these days, so it was time to get rid of the bouncy seat. Ava decided to give it one last try:

Correction: Presley's weight

2010-09-08T15:13:00.002-05:00

On my last post, I stated that Pres now weighs 27#. I got this weight by weighing myself, then doing it again holding her & subtracting the 1st from the 2nd. But, because our scale is not a great one(*NOT* because my math could be wrong:)), 27# is incorrect. I took her to the dr today for a possible ear infection(she does not have one, yay!) & she only weighed 25.5 #. Gaining 1.5# in the last 2 mos is probably better than 3#. Maybe she's slimming up some after all! ;)

Presley is 11 months old

2010-09-06T09:34:00.004-05:00

Miss Presley Rae, at 11 months you:

**are 27 # & 31.5 in long

**wear 18-24 mos clothes(& some of Ava's smaller 2T shirts!)
**wear size 5 diapers(same as A&D!!)

**are crawling, pulling up, cruising

**can stand up unassisted & will take steps with a push toy or holding our hands

**seem to have no interest in walking

**are into ALL of Ava & Drew's stuff & drive them quite crazy

**love Ava & Drew...they make you laugh like no one else can

**love to dance--like Drew, you seem to hear music in your head

**say uh oh, dada, mama, drew(dew) & you babble A LOT

**can be grumpy when Ava & Drew aren't here...you like to be in the middle of all the action

**still wake up at night to nurse....lately just once or twice, but occasionally still 3+ times

**eat 3 solid meals + 1-2 snacks & nurse 3-4 times/day

**can't sit still for more than 5 minutes at a time...there's always something to check out/get in to

**have a callus on your right thumb--even though you suck both of them, the right one is your favorite

**are a daddy's girl during the day, but only want mommy at night!

We love you Pres!

Go Cowboys....

2010-09-04T19:50:00.003-05:00

a couple days late. Although, they did wear their shirts & I DID take the pictures on Game Day.

Ava did not want to take this picture...not sure if it was because I asked her to sit by Pres. I had asked Drew to hold Pres' hand to keep her still(she kept wanting to go after the camera) & he was determined to hold her. Later pictures (taken w/ my phone) have him holding her in his lap to keep her still--hard to get good pics of their shirts that way--but, I appreciate his effort! ;)

Uh oh Dew

2010-09-04T19:47:00.004-05:00

Ava & Drew find it very funny that Pres says 'uh oh' all the time. Recently, they've started egging her on & the other day at the table they made a little game of it. Pres would say uh oh, then Ava & Drew would start screaming: uh oh Ava, uh oh Drew, uh oh Pres, uh oh mommy. And everytime they said it, Pres would mock them, saying UH OH....then all of a sudden, she said UH OH DEW. Drew immediately stopped talking(shocker), got big eyes & the biggest grin. Now she says 'uh oh dew' as often as she just says 'uh oh'. Drew just loves hearing her say his name.
On to learning Ava's name next! :)

'Big People' Forks

2010-09-04T19:43:00.002-05:00

Last Saturday morning I made blueberry pancakes for breakfast. These pancakes tend to fall apart easily & Ava & Drew always have trouble with their 'baby' plastic forks. So, I decided to let them try the big people forks--the small ones(like Aunt Jess uses ;)), not the ones most adults would use. They thought it was great. Since then, they've gotten to use them a couple other times...though often, they just prefer using their hands.

Imagination

2010-08-27T20:59:00.003-05:00

Ava has the most amazing imagination. She can play by herself for hours & be totally happy. Jeremy & I love listening to her on the monitor when she's in her room. She reads stories to her 'guys', talks for them, & puts them in time out. She often comes to one of us & says "Lambchops(or Suzie, or Millie, or monkey) cwying". It's so fun to watch her having fun:

Here, she's reading books to 'Millie', 'Monkey' & 'Monkey'

Playing with Buzz & Woody. She was doing voices for each of them & they had a whole converstaion going!

"I'm Sick"

2010-08-27T20:49:00.002-05:00

Back in May, Drew got a very weird tummy bug: it started with him telling me his tummy hurt after lunch, then a fever , followed shortly by vomitting 3 times over the course of a couple hours, & the fever lasted until bedtime. The next morning he was fine & even went with Noni, Dandy & Ava to Sea World the next day.

During this illness, I layered some blankets under some towels in the 'big TV room', gave him the 'throw up' bucket & ordered "Bee Movie" on our DVR.

About once every other week since then, Drew & I have the following conversation:
Drew: Mommy, I sick!
Me: What's wrong.
D: I think I gonna spit (throw up)
Me: Ok, what do we need to do?
D: need sheets, bucket & Bees
**he has yet to actually BE sick again....guess he just likes the extra attention! ;)

Future American Idol

2010-08-23T15:14:00.003-05:00

Drew LOVES to sing! He wakes up singing, sings at breakfast.... sings for Presley.... sings at lunch.... sings to his 'guys'..... sings himself to sleep. He usually starts with ABC's, then Twinkle Twinkle. He'll throw in some Wiggles songs, Itsy Bitsy Spider & songs from Dora. We love listening to him.

Even more adorable, anytime he sings with Pres around, she'll start to dance. If I need him to distract her from getting in to something, I'll ask him to sing for her & she'll stop & start dancing.

Sometimes Ava will sing with him. Although, they often argue over what song to sing. :)

I'm trying to get some video, but when he hears the camera come on, he stops.

Bouncy fort, canoe, & Cowboys

2010-08-14T21:51:00.002-05:00

For some reason Ava & Drew decided they needed to put all of our couch pillows & blankets in the Bounce Around. Then they said they needed one OVER the bounce around...so, we made a bouncy fort:
...It got VERY hot in there!!

Who needs toys, when you have a big box that doubles as a conoe?

Presley's 1st Cowboys shirt: She seems to like it! :)

Presley at 10 months

2010-08-14T21:30:00.002-05:00

Hard to believe, but Pres is 10 mos now(well 6 days ago...but, at least I'm getting it done within the month, right!?). She is all over the place...crawling, pulling up, cruising. She doesn't seem extremely interested in walking just yet, but I'm sure she'll get there soon enough.

She loves being in the middle of our crazy house & actually is quite grumpy when Ava & Drew aren't around. We've been seeing that she really has a bit of a temper when she doesn't get her way...if her food is not in front of her fast enough, when I won't let her go up the stairs, when I put her in her 'pen'.... At this point we laugh at it...and hope it's just a phase! :)

Washing dad's car

2010-07-31T14:47:00.003-05:00

After lunch, we decided dad's car needed to be washed. Drew immediately jumped on the idea & got very excited. Ava took a little more convincing, but got ready & headed out.

Drew had a good time at 1st...
But got bored with the car after a while & decided to water the trees...

Pres hung out in the exersaucer for a while, but was NOT a fan of the heat. So, I took her back in to play in her pen.

Ava took her job very seriously & we finally had to distract her away....she kept re-washing every time Jeremy would rinse. I talked her into washing her car(little ride on toy) & that kept her busy for a while.

Just so cute...

2010-07-31T08:03:00.002-05:00

Pres just loved watching Ava play in the cottage yesterday. And I think Ava got a kick out of her audience!
I think I posted a pic of Ava working on this puzzle a while ago. Now it's Drew's turn to show off:

We had to move the puzzle to the table in the entry, because Pres really likes to turn the pieces over just as they get a picture made. Upsets Ava & Drew a little. ;)

Presley: Then & Now

2010-07-31T07:58:00.002-05:00

Now that Pres is pulling up on everything, she's getting a better look at the world. She really enjoyed looking at this old picture of her the other day. I'm sure she doesn't understand that it's her, but it was too cute to pass up. I think the picture was from about 4 weeks.

After nap snack....

2010-07-31T07:54:00.002-05:00

Ava & Drew are still loving popcorn for their afternoon snack. Jeremy's mom gave them these neat little 'tv' trays & they've enjoyed eating on them while watching their post-nap Dora & Diego.
Thanks, Granny, for the trays!

Love playing in Pres' pen....

2010-07-31T07:50:00.002-05:00

Well, Drew does anyway! And the gate MUST be locked....

He talked Ava into joining him. She didn't last long....didn't like that 'locked up' feeling, I guess.

Pres enjoyed them being locked up. 'Yes, I will play with your favorite puzzle & you can't do anything about it!' :)

Sisters

2010-07-31T07:44:00.002-05:00

I don't get a lot of pictures of Ava & Presley together, because Ava's still not Pres' biggest fan. She tolerates her, but is so not into sharing toys with her. Which is why I had to run & grab the camera a couple days ago.

1st, Ava shoots me a longsuffering look.....

But, then she allowed Pres to play with her for a few minutes. How adorable is this! :)
I didn't push my luck....as soon as I got my pictures, I moved Pres away!

Bubbles

2010-07-25T21:52:00.003-05:00

It's so much fun to watch Ava & Drew run after bubbles. Drew especially loves it...though he only wants BIG bubbles. But, he'll chase them as long as Jeremy will blow them. Ava plays for a bit, but she'd really rather swing!

Barricaded, 'horsey' rides & helpful big brother

2010-07-25T21:44:00.003-05:00

Poor Pres.... she is really driving Ava & Drew crazy now that she can crawl & get into all their stuff. And she REALLY REALLY hates her 'pen'. So, I got creative the other day & used their chairs & couch pillows to keep her out, but not locked away. She still didn't like it & is actually pretty good & climbing over the barricade, but it was better than nothing!

Ava & Drew love when Jeremy gives horsey rides. A few days ago, he was taking a break & they decided to try it themselves. Needless to say, it didn't go well....and Drew never volunteered to be the 'horsey'. Ava didn't seem to mind though! They're so cute together. :)

That same evening, Drew decided to help Pres with her puzzle. He can be pretty patient with her sometimes. Though it does frustrate him that she just wants to eat the pieces! ;)

Playing nice

2010-07-25T21:20:00.002-05:00

Sometimes it actually happens....Ava & Drew play together WITHOUT fighting! No....it's not really that bad. But, I do LOVE to see them playing well & working together on a project..in this case a VERY hard puzzle that is for 'ages 3+'. I have to brag on them a bit here...they can put it together with no help from an adult! So smart! :)

Real food, cruising & a new chair

2010-07-25T21:15:00.002-05:00

Pres is just getting so big. I was kind of slow on doing solids with her. So, she's only just started progressing from baby food to 'real people' food. She seems to love everything I've given her so far.
Here she's trying her first waffle:

Bread, cheese, turkey, strawberries & grapes for lunch:
She's gotten a lot better at getting it in her mouth in just the last week. Much less on the floor & in her chair! :)

She's pulling up & cruising all over the place. Sitting *in* the exersaucer is no longer any fun for her...but, standing on the outside & moving around is much better!

After pulling her out of Ava & Drew's chairs over & over (& over & over & over....), I decided it was time to get her one. She seems to like it...though it hasn't stopped her from climbing in theirs!

When the cats are away....

2010-07-14T15:38:00.003-05:00

...the mouse will play....

...or in this case....

...when Ava & Drew are away....

.....Pres will play....

.....with all of their toys! :)

Austin Children's Museum

2010-07-09T17:03:00.004-05:00

On Mondays, the Austin Children's Museum is open only for ages 3 & under. I had been wanting to try it out for a while, but wasn't sure I could handle it by myself(and after going, NO, I couldn't do it alone!). So, since Jeremy was off this past Monday, we decided to check it out.

The kids had a blast exploring

Ava found this slide right away & I wasn't sure we'd be able to pull her away from it. She LOVED it!

Not really sure what that is that they are playing with here, but they had fun. This is while we were waiting for the music time to begin. I didn't get any pictures of that, but they had a blast singing & dancing & running under the parachute at the end!

There was also a designated area for the 'littles'. It would usually be for babies & toddlers, but it seemed to be mostly for babies this morning. Of course, Ava & Drew had to come check out what Pres was doing.

Just before Ava's meltdown that led to us leaving, we found the 'Mi Familia' room. They both loved the drums.

Apparently, Ava thought the drums belonged to her & tried to tackle the little boy who played after she left them.....which led to screaming & the decision to leave--quickly!

But, other than that, we all had a really good time.

Better late than never...

2010-07-09T16:12:00.003-05:00

Pres turned 9 months old on Tuesday. I totally took pictures that day & had every intention of posting that night.....and now, I honestly can't remember why it didn't happen. But, it was probably kid-related!

Here she is at 9 mos.

She is crawling all over the place & trying to pull up--she succeeds occasionally. She is very happy as long as she's right in the middle of things(which Ava & Drew just love...ok, maybe not) & gets fed whenever she wants. She's a good napper, but not a good sleeper at night. 2 is the minimum number of times she's up at night....sometimes it's hourly. (I just keep reminding myself that it won't last forever & try to enjoy the alone time with her!). She has 4 teeth with 2, possibly 4, more on the way in!

Her 9 mo well-check is Tuesday, so I'll probably post her stats then....we're guessing she'll weigh in around 24 lbs (:0!!)

Pres turned 9 months old on Tuesday. I totally took pictures that day & had every intention of posting that night.... and honestly I can't remember why it didn't happen, but I'm sure it was kid-related! ;)

Daddy's little helpers

2010-07-09T16:04:00.003-05:00

Now that Pres is crawling & QUICKLY getting anywhere she wants to be...and mostly where Ava & Drew DON'T want her to be, we decided it was time to put the big gate back up to create a 'safe' area for her. We've dubbed it "Pres' Pen".

Since the playroom is right below the kid's rooms, it couldn't be done while they were sleeping, so Jeremy had a couple little helpers.

1st, we have to remove the old gate hardware:
Then, find a stud:

Then, measure carefully!

Ava & Drew had a lot of fun helping daddy out. And I don't think it drove Jeremy crazy! ;)

Pres in her new pen.... so far she doesn't seem to hate it!

Rainy day toys

2010-07-09T15:49:00.003-05:00

Last Thursday it rained...a lot. And, as always, rain makes for a LLLLOOONNNGGGG day at our house. So, I pulled out a storage container of my old stuffed animals. I had brought them down from the attic a while back with the intention of giving them away, but figured the kids might get a kick out of them 1st.

They quickly picked their favorites(a large tiger for Drew & my pink dolphin for Ava). The poor Cabbage Patch kids were relegated back to the container. Apparently old, spotty, weird looking dolls are no fun.
Then we had to make homes for them....

Which quickly became more fun to play with...

When Pres woke up, she was 'allowed' one toy...one of the unwanted Cabbage Patch kids. But, she didn't seem to care.

She's really on the move now!

2010-07-01T17:27:00.002-05:00

Pres has been 'practicing' for a while--rocking & scooting--but on Tuesday she really got going. Now she is EVERYWHERE. Making Ava & Drew crazy....so far, she's only tripped one of them once! Think it may be time to put a gate back up.

Vacation

2010-06-30T15:33:00.003-05:00

Instead of going away somewhere this summer, we planned to 'vacation' at my parent's house. They have a pool & room for all of us & since none of us actually get IN the ocean, it seemed like a great idea. I also wanted Ava & Drew to take swimming lessons this year, but that requires 1 adult/child, so I recruited 'Dandy' to help while 'Noni' stayed home with Pres. The kids & I went up there last Sunday, then Jeremy flew up on Wednesday. Jessica was able to be there for a few days & we got to see Casey the day we arrived. Wish they both could have stayed longer!
Swimming lessons weren't a BIG hit....Drew liked it better than Ava. But they had a great time playing outside & being with Noni & Dandy. Pres is cool as long as everyone is around! :)

Happy Father's Day

2010-06-20T10:18:00.001-05:00

We love you, honey!
Father's Day breakfast:

Cheesy grin for dear old dad :)

Pancakes & strollers

2010-06-20T10:11:00.003-05:00

Friday morning, Ava woke up before Drew, so she got to pick breakfast. She 'needed' pancakes! I double checked with her, because often she doesn't even eat breakfast. She said she NEEDED pancakes.

She didn't eat a bite:
Later, it was time to take their 'guys' for a stroll.

Around & around & around they went....

Presley is here, too!

2010-06-16T16:48:00.002-05:00

Rolling around & making funny faces....
Smiling in the jumperoo....

Pres is generally happy as long as she can see Drew & Ava & gets a little attention from me.

Finger painting

2010-06-16T16:37:00.002-05:00

Yep, I finally decided to try it. But, instead of buying real finger paints(that I figured would just get eaten & stain), I made vanilla pudding & added food coloring. It was a hit...sort of! Drew jumped right in....
....Ava was not so sure about it.....

Then Drew really got into.....

And decided to taste it...

Ava was done within 15 mins. Watching Dora & eating Dora fruit snacks was a lot more fun!

Even though Ava didn't really care for it, I'll definitely do it again. They both got a kick out of watching me make the pudding & changing the color. And Drew had a blast getting it EVERYWHERE!

That's not exactly what it's intended for...

2010-06-16T16:27:00.004-05:00

As much as I was hoping to get out of having to have a sandbox(and after last summer's beach trip, it looked hopeful), Drew has discovered a love of sand. Last week at Noni & Dandy's, he spent hours in the sandbox they have. So, after I told Jeremy about it, we decided to get him one for home.
It arrived yesterday(2 days early...GO Little Tikes!) & I promptly put it together(it was easy!). We bought sand toys today at Target & they have been happily playing in it. We're not going to get sand for it (& move it outside) until we get back from our vacation.
I think Drew will be thrilled when he sees what it really is....Ava may not be too happy with me. Although, I picked this one because one side is for sand & the other for water. And we know Ava likes water! :) (She tells us often!). We'll see. But, until then, indoor sandbox anyone?!

More 'new-old' toys

2010-06-15T16:55:00.002-05:00

Although Pres loves all of Ava & Drew's toys(much to Ava's chagrin!), we decided it was time to pull down some 'age-appropriate' toys from the attic. The 1st one we got out was one of Ava & Drew's favorites from about 10 mos-18 mos or so. I'm not real sure if they remember it, or got excited because it was 'new', but they are loving it! And Pres thinks it's pretty great too....when we can pull A&D away long enough for her to play with it. ;)

The other toys I got out were not as much of a success. Ava & Drew quickly began to fight over them(they are smaller toys that can be moved) & I had to put them away. Sorry, Pres! But, it gives her another excuse to play w/ the 'big kid' toys! :)

Won't be long....

2010-06-15T16:50:00.002-05:00

Pres is starting to really get serious about crawling. *I* could probably wait a little longer...it's crazy enough how fast she moves just rolling. AND, crawling leads to pulling up...which leads to walking! Aagh! Slow down time, SLOW DOWN!!!

Carousel & Build a Bear

2010-06-09T16:21:00.004-05:00

Our mall has recently added a very nice, *real* carousel. I had not been to see it yet, but had heard from others that it was great. So, with mom & dad here & errands that needed to be run anyways, we decided to head to the mall yesterday morning. The carousel was a BIG hit. We ended up riding it 4 times while we were there. Drew tried out a different animal(aside from horses, they have a giraffe, elephant & monkey) each time, while Ava stayed on the same horse except for the last ride. Unfortunately, it is not something I could do with them on my own yet. Even though I could stand between them to help them hold on....I would not be able to watch Pres, too. So, we may be going often when Noni & Dandy visit! :)

After the 1st 2 rides on the carousel, while we were deciding where to go next, mom & I decided it was time to "Build a Bear". The store is (strategically placed, I'm sure) right behind the carousel & it caught our eye. We had talked about it before, but kind of thought they may be too little. But, we figured we had the time, so it was worth a shot.

After running our errands & eating lunch, we headed in. The girl working there was very nice & showed us exactly what to do. After much disussion w/ the 2 year olds(!), Drew picked a leopard(who looks enough like Baby Jaguar to make him happy) & Ava picked a Monkey(her current fave). They got a little scared during the stuffing--it's kind of loud & then it was time for clothes. Ava decided Monkey did NOT need clothes, try as Noni might to change her mind. Clothes were bought for her, but they still have not been worn. Drew felt that Baby Jaguar MUST have a basketball, so I told him to pick out a basketball uniform for him to wear. Much to our chagrin, he picked a Spurs uniform. While daddy will be thrilled, those of us with him would have preferred a Mavs jersey. But, this was not a battle we wanted to fight! :) We then picked names("Baby Jaguar" of course & Milly the Monkey) & printed birth certificates.

It was a fun experience. I think they'll enjoy it when they get a little older & really understand what's going on. But, they do love their new animals.

Thanks, Noni & Dandy, for EVERYTHING. We love you!

1 1/2 weeks without daddy...

2010-06-09T16:07:00.002-05:00

Jeremy gets home today from a long business trip(well, long for us anyways!). While we have missed him terribly, we have not been on our own the whole time. From Tuesday to Tuesday, we were with my parents. The 1st 5 days at their house, then back here on Sunday. We had a nice time swimming, going to movies & playing. The kids always have a blast with Noni & Dandy & this time was no exception. The hardest part was them leaving yesterday. I think Ava & Drew had decided that we would just be living together now! ;) Fortunately, we'll be back soon for our 'vacation'.

Here are a few pictures of our time together. I've got more on my phone & some video that I may try to add(but, probably won't get around to!).

Pres is 8 mos

2010-06-09T15:21:00.002-05:00

Another month..... Pres is certainly growing liek a weed. I'm not sure how much she weighs, but I'm guessing it's about 22 or 23 lbs. She's already in 12-18 mos clothes! Can't wait till her 9 mos appt.
Presley is sitting up very well on her own & starting to think about crawling. She'll get up on her hands & knees, & rock a little. She's becoming very interested about Ava & Drew's toys. Which does not always make them happy..... but, hopefully they'll get used to it soon.

New pool & watches

2010-05-26T17:48:00.002-05:00

Last week I bought a kiddie pool at Target. The kids love it. It has a waterfall, slide & 2 inflatable dinosaurs(the perfect number!;)).

Drew & Ava have been fascinated by my sports watch for a while now. They often ask to wear it or will try to play w/ all the buttons while I'm wearing. So, I finally decided to get them their own watches. So, Saturday, while Jeremy took Drew to get a haircut, the girls & I went to Target to look for watches. I let Ava pick them out: Dora & Diego, of course. They are not wearing them as often as I expected, but do get very upset when we can't find them! :)

Mini-forts & new dresses

2010-05-26T17:15:00.003-05:00

Since I've been a little remiss in my blogging lately, I'll be combining some posts as I try to update on how we're doing.

I don't even remember when this picture was taken. I know that after 200 "momma, cover me up"s followed by them uncovering to see the TV, I was thinking creatively to get them to stop! ;) Viola: mini-forts. They waited more than 2 minutes to tear them down, so that was progress!
Of course the feet touching in the middle led to a couple fights....guess we need a bigger couch.

Pres & Ava just got 2 new smocked dresses from my mom(she makes them!). They are SO adorable & the softest fabric. I asked her if she would make me one & I think she thought I was kidding... =).

Pres has pink sheep:

I could not get Ava to just let me take a picture of her. In every one she is holding her cars in front of the smocking...which is what I wanted to show off. This is the best I could do. If you can't tell, it's chocolate cupcakes w/ pink icing. Adorable!

Bouncy bouncy bouncy

2010-05-10T10:02:00.003-05:00

Ava & Drew LOVE to jump, bounce & hop. They can often be found hopping like frogs & screaming RIBBIT through the house. They very seldom walk anywhere....they jump. They jump ON the couch, OFF the couch & have even attempted to jump from the floor TO the couch! We started talking a couple of months ago about getting them an indoor, small trampoline to try to channel this jumping energy into an appropriate outlet. I felt that most of these trampolines(at least within our price range) seemed a little dangerous for 2 toddlers to jump on together(because of course they will HAVE to jump together!). Then I was flipping through the One Step Ahead catalog & saw the Bounce A Round. PERFECT! It's a smallish inflatable...with inflated sides. Made for 2 kids. Just what we need. And not incredibly expensive...even better! :)

We got it about 2 weeks ago, but had to get a pump for it, which I got last week while Ava & Drew were in San Antonio. Jeremy got it blown up Saturday afternoon & the kids LOVE IT. I really thought they would...they love the big inflatables & now they have one of their own!

Though we've already had a few injuries(mostly bumping heads), they are having a blast in it. They seem to be catching on that no toys are allowed in it & we've only had to turn it around(so they can't enter) twice--I think that's pretty good! ;)

I can tell this will be a lifesaver on rainy days & scorching hot afternoons when we can't go outside. Very good purchase, I think! :)

San Antonio Zoo & Sea World

2010-05-07T20:32:00.002-05:00

On Wednesday, my parents headed to San Antonio with Ava & Drew. (Pres & I were supposed to go, but I decided we should stay home since she had an ear infection.) Thursday morning, they headed to the zoo. Mom was kind enough to send me some pics from her phone, since I couldn't be there. Here's one at a fish tank:
And one with a crocodile(Drew's favorite animal right now!):

Drew LOVES animals! And always loves the zoo. Ava could take it or leave it, but anywhere Noni is, she's happy to be!

We also found out that they LOVE hotel rooms! We stayed in one last summer on the way to Gulf Shores, but I'm sure they don't remember it. Here, they are lazing in bed w/ milk watching TV!

While Ava may be ambivalent about the zoo.....she LOVED Sea World. They went there today & Ava fell in love with the sea animals.

At the Shamu show, she was so excited that the pic is blurry from her jumping up & down. Drew on the other hand, didn't seem to know what to make of it.

They also got to see & feed the dolphins while there:

After hearing about how much fun they had, Jeremy & I have already decided that we'll have to take a family trip to Sea World soon(well, not too soon...we'll wait till the temps drop down out of the 100s at least!).

Glad they had a great time. Thanks, Noni & Dandy, for taking them! Love you!

Pres is 7 mos!

2010-05-07T20:24:00.002-05:00

I know I say it every month, but I can't believe Pres is already 7 mos old. It just seems like it can't have been 7 mos since we came home from the hospital. But, I guess I must believe it.....everyone says it's true!!
Pres is quite a big girl at 7 mos. Due to an ear infection, we found that she has gained TWO(yes, 2) pounds since her 6 mos check(21#10oz now)!!! She does like to eat. =) She has started solids, & likes them well enough. The only thing she has refused so far is avacado(& I can't blame her...I don't like it either!).

She is rolling both ways & all over the place. She's doing some scooting...I would imagine crawling will come before too long. Looks like she is going to be right down the middle of Ava & Drew as far as milestones go. Ava & Drew are still her favorite people, they can make her laugh just by being in the room. We're hoping that some day she will start sleeping better(at this point, I'm not even wishing for all night...just 5 consecutive hours would be nice!).

Overall she is still the happiest baby one could wish for. People even stop me when I'm out with the kids to tell me how happy/content/ good she is!! And if we're not counting the nights, it's all true! ;)

Heritage Festival

2010-04-10T21:12:00.002-05:00

Today was a beautiful day. Jeremy had to work this morning, so the kids & I stayed inside. Once he got home, though, we took Ava & Drew out right before naps(great idea, they both slept great!). While they were sleeping, we decided to look for a new park to take them to. Instead we discovered the Heritage Festival at one of our local parks & thought it looked like fun.

It all started at 4:00, so after Dora & popcorn, we headed out. The kids got to sit in a fire truck, jump in a bounce house, pet goats, bunnies, miniature horses, ducks & chickens & ride ponies. It was a blast. Not too hot or too windy.

We finished our day with dinner at Cheddar's & their 'legendary'(menu's word, not mine!) monster cookie! :)

Pres rolled over!!!

2010-04-10T21:04:00.002-05:00

In exciting news: Presley (finally) rolled over. At about 4:00am Wed morning, I was 'called' to her room by a sqealing noise--hoping I wouldn't find a pig ;)! Nope, just Pres laying on her tummy & not extremely happy about it! Now she's pretty much sleeping on her tummy. And not complaining about it too much...at least at naptime! Nighttime has been a different story....

Pres is 6 months old!

2010-04-06T21:12:00.002-05:00

It is very hard to believe we are half-way to 1! I know I've said it before, but time is just flying by. I'm not ready for my babies to grow up!! The 1st year didn't go this fast w/ Ava & Drew....guess I wasn't chasing around 2 toddlers then either.

Pres is a very very happy baby. Pretty much the only time she gets upset is if I don't feed her fast enough...and even then, she can be distracted. She adores Ava & Drew....loves to watch them no matter what they are doing. And when they pay attention to her she gives them the biggest smile!! It's so fun to watch them all interact!

We had her 6 month well check this morning. She is a big girl: 19#8oz(95%) & 28in(+95%). The doctor said it's time to start solids. I'm not really looking forward to it, but we'll get started soon.

Easter day

2010-04-04T17:08:00.002-05:00

We've had a really good day today. How could we not...ALL the kids slept till at least 8:00!!! We had to WAKE DREW UP at 8:15 to get ready for church! Had a great church service & since naps have colored eggs & played outside. Jeremy made breakfast(scones) & is working on dinner(ribs!!)! Here are some pics from our day.

Happy Easter!!

2010-04-03T20:36:00.003-05:00