hoofnacks

2010-01-07T21:20:00.000-05:00

Isn't she just precious? She is taking her dancing seriously. She twirls and rolls all over the place.

Random places we find the kids. Sam loves to read to his sister. He's doing so good with his reading and math.

I love my baby girl.

Class Parties

2010-01-07T20:57:00.000-05:00

Clean hands!

I swear I comb her hair.

These two are inseparable.

Dancing and singing in her class.

Weekly Camp ins

2010-01-07T20:40:00.000-05:00

Every week, we allow the kids a camp out in their rooms. We set up a tent, hand out a bag of goodies, set up the DVD player and let them watch a movie, play and eventually fall asleep. The kids love it!

Christmas morning

2010-01-07T20:32:00.000-05:00

We had a very good Christmas this year, even though we were far away from our extended family. The children were super excited. They left cookies out for Santa to eat and went to sleep in a jiffy. Isa was the first to wake at around 0730. She came in and crawled into our bed and Sam followed a few minutes later. We had to remind them that Santa had been here and if they wanted to go open presents. Getting new toys is a win win situation for all of us. It keeps the kids happy and out of our hair for a while.

The much coveted Transformer track.

Ariel is really big at our house right now.

I got a sewing machine carrier. Exciting!

Rueben enjoyed his IPhone speakers and video game.

Even Jake loved his present. His lasted about 45 minutes.

I hope all of you had wonderful Holidays!

How do you get the dog to pull you?

2010-01-07T20:13:00.000-05:00

It didn't work as well as we had expected. Sure was fun to watch!

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2009-12-18T16:30:00.000-05:00

Its snowing! Woohoo!

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2009-12-11T09:39:00.000-05:00

Ready for the cold.

6 Years

2009-12-10T20:40:00.001-05:00

Our little boy turned 6 on Wednesday. It's hard to believe how fast the time has passed. He is transitioning from the cuddling, kissing, sweet boy to the "I don't want anyone to see you kissing me mom", sometimes irritating boy behaviors (that some never grow out of...hehehe), independent, whatever I think is right, big boy. But underneath it all, he is still my little boy and I will continue to kiss and coddle him as much as I can. He is doing great in school, holding the first place title in the most read books since school started. He has stared reading to Isa at nights before bed. Him and Isa are best buds and are inseparable. Happy birthday son. We love you always.

Isa picked out a Nerf gun for Sam. Apparently, she was told by him that that is what he wanted the most. When we were at the store, I couldn't find them and tried to suggest something else. She looked me in the eye and with a wave of her finger she said, "NO mommy. He wants a Nerf gun. We need to get him a Nerf gun". Thankfully I found them.

Oh yes, I also had a birthday a few days ago. I turned 29 for the 4th time. I'm not sure how much longer I'll be able to keep this up. My present had been waiting for me for about a week and I did everything possible to get the kids to divulge what it was. But they kept a tight lip no matter what I bribed them with. They are such good secret keepers. I had been bugging Rueben for a sewing machine for years and he finally delivered. I'm not sure what he was so afraid of...maybe me sewing the leg holes to his skivvies or the cheesy holiday shirts that I am planning on sewing. I am just thrilled that I finally have a sewing machine and at the same time, I am kicking my butt for not taking advantage of learning when my mother tried to teach me. She is an excellent seamstress and I am looking forward to when she visits. In the meantime, my friend Elena, who is also an awesome seamstress, came over and gave me sewing lessons, along with the material and pattern to make me and Isa cute matching aprons. It was an awesome birthday present. Project Runway here I come...(maybe).
working progress

Yellow Belt

2009-12-10T20:13:00.001-05:00

Last Friday, Sam tested for his yellow belt in Tae Kwon Do. He passed of course, and will be starting on another phase in his training. He has done really well and has established good posture and better body control. At this rate, he'll be a black belt before we know it. These are the tenents that he is learning: Courtesy, Integrity, Perseverence, Self Control, and Indomitable Spirit. We are so proud of our growing boy!

On another note, this is what Sam does when he picks out his clothes the night before school. I thought it was pretty funny.

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2009-12-04T21:26:00.000-05:00

"this is my happy face!"

My new hobby (for you Shirley)

2009-12-02T22:35:00.002-05:00

Girl walks into a beading store and the rest is...

My first necklace and earring combo.

I've been working with Swarovski crystals, freshwater pearls, glass beads and sterling silver. The hardest part is combining colors and beads. I can spend hours the bead store and come out with two maybe three projects.

I had originally made earrings with the purple crystals and then decided to make the matching necklace, of course.

This one is Sam's favorite cause it reminds him of Christmas. I'm not much of a holiday jewelry wearer, but I hear they sell like crazy. I think I might start making snowmen, santas, and christmas trees.

I've also been learning different stitches. This here is a simple ladder stitch.

This is a twisted triple strand with pendant.

Simple wire wrapped earrings. I'm looking forward to more wire wrapping classes.

The top necklace is done with a spiral stitch. It's my second favorite stitch to work with. The bottom is an even count peyote stitch bracelet that I still need to embelish somehow.

Cluster drop earrings. I wear them as much as I can.

And this one is my latest creation. I absolutely love it! Anything is possible when you follow directions. It is a double sided bracelet made with charcoal color pearls and embellished with ruby swarovski crystals (top flowers) and black diamond swarovski crystals on the side. When turned over, all you see is the pearls and side crystals. I can't wait to make more in different colors.

And yet another one...

2009-11-29T19:45:00.000-05:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Gotta love JibJab

2009-11-29T19:38:00.000-05:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Deck the halls...

2009-11-29T18:34:00.000-05:00

The kids had a great time decorating. They trimmed the tree all by themselves.

The outside lights are up. Christmas better bring it cause we are ready!

Thanksgiving

2009-11-29T10:03:00.000-05:00

This year we have a lot to be thankful for. Graduation for Rueben, employment, two beautiful healthy children, a loving marriage, amazing family and awesome friends. We have all the basics and some commodities that not all can say they have. The turkey was once again rocked by Rueben this year. Brining it with this tasty dry rub for 24 hours and baked just right. It's my favorite that he loves to cook the turkey every year.

The children looking nice. I am thankful that they still let me pick out their clothes on the days that matter.

Post turkey silliness. I was completely overtaken by the tryptophan and shamefully fell asleep on the couch.

Isabelle and her Big Giant Boy. She's always asking for him and when they are together she chases him all over the place.

Sam and Malcom

I hope everyone had a great Thanskgiving. We are thankful for you!

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2009-11-23T15:29:00.000-05:00

This is Rueben most the time. Haha. Just kidding.

Too much time on my hands Rueben

2009-11-23T15:24:00.001-05:00

This is what Rueben looks like when he has too much time on his hands.

Work Rueben

2009-11-23T15:04:00.002-05:00

This is what rueben looks like when he's at work.

2009-11-23T14:54:00.002-05:00

Learning about Native Americans, pilgrims, and thanksgiving. Here she is shooting her bow and arrow.

Testing

2009-11-23T11:30:00.001-05:00

Figuring out how to blog from iPhone.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

We're back!

2009-11-22T20:36:00.009-05:00

Hello family and friends. I know it has been a few months since I have posted or even really been on blogger. I've let the daily routine keep me busy. But the other day I was looking through the pictures and it just brought a smile and I began to reminisce about everything we have done in the past two years. I realized that I am not just blogging for you, but for me as well. So, here it is, we are starting with Halloween and going backwards.

Halloween is just a special day all around. You get to dress up, carve pumpkins, eat lots of candy and best of all, it's Rueben's birthday.

"Dressed up like a million dollar trooper
Trying hard to look like Gary Cooper
Super-duper"

We were made for one another.

Rueben did an awesome job on Sam's face paint. He is so good at it, but then again, he's good at most everything he does. I think if this anesthesia stuff doesn't pan out, he could make it as a Hollywood Makeup Artist.

Sam's Tae Kwon Do place hosted a costume party. Our cute Little Mermaid won best costume. Even got a medal. She was thrilled.

RRRRAAAARRRR!

Isa really wants red hair.

Where the wild things are.

Our little girl has grown up so much this past year. She is completely potty trained, even during the night. Oh and she loves to talk. I remember when she didn't and we kept wondering when she was going to start. Now we sometimes ask for just a few seconds of quiet. Oh and her favorite word "why".

Party at the preschool. Isa loves going to school. She only goes three days a week, but she's always asking if she can go. Her favorite, lunch bunch.

Have you met our miniature horse Jake? He's a little over 80 pounds now and he is still growing. We get so many compliments when we are out and about with him. He loves car rides, going to the doggy park, running next to Rueben while he bikes. I tell him he would be the perfect dog if he just didn't shed so much. It's incredible the amount of hair I sweep and vacuum every day. We just love him to pieces.

The beautiful colors of Autumn. This is our backyard. The trees are all bare now. On the days that it doesn't rain, it's chilly in the mornings and warm in the afternoons. Waiting for the snow to get here.

Having fun carving pumpkins.

"Isabelle, what's inside the pumpkins?"
Isa: (with this scowl on her face) "GUTS AND SEEDS!!"

"HUH?" Every time that the kids cry, Jake howls right next to them. As if my kids cry wasn't enough. But it's the funniest thing cause he only does it with our kids. I guess he feels their pain.

We have never cut Isa's hair and it's gotten so long. She loathes having it combed and most the time it's a big mess. A haircut might be nice, but I just can't bare to lose the curly ends.

And because I can't cut Isa's hair, I went and chopped mine off. I had been thinking about it for months and I finally dared. It's only hair and it grows back. I love it and I think I'll sport it for a while.

Pumpkin patch and hay ride.

Fun times at the fair.

Swim lessons. The kids love being in the water. Sam is swimming without his floaties and jumping off the diving board.

Isa has been taking dance lessons. She's learning tap, baton, ballet and tumbling. She absolutely loves it.

Early in October, this is what the kids wanted to be for Halloween. I think it changed about three times.

The best place to be.

Beach party!!

2009-09-03T21:03:00.009-04:00

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Rueben's final graduation? Maybe...maybe not

2009-09-03T20:49:00.006-04:00

Kindergarten here we come...

2009-07-19T20:01:00.003-04:00

Sam is really excited about kindergarten this fall. Mommy is still having anxiety attacks over it. I'm sure he'll have to pry my arms off him, wipe my tears and console me on the first day of class. Part of me wants him to grow up and part of me wants him to stay my sweet little boy forever. Ah well, such is life. Fortunately, he'll have a couple of familiar faces in his school. Two of his preschool classmates will also be attending the same school. And, to make the day even more special, grandma and grandpa Lopez will be in town to see him off on his first day. He's way excited about that too! That day is coming fast. Where has our summer gone?

Twins

2009-07-19T19:56:00.003-04:00

It was time for a haircut today.

Yellow submarine

2009-07-19T13:59:00.008-04:00

So, I bought a watermelon at Walmart yesterday and this is what I was surprised with upon cutting it. It was so yellow that it seemed to glow. Neither of us had ever seen a yellow watermelon before. I was so ready to go back to Wally World and request a refund. Thankfully Google informed us that this happens every so often and that supposedly they are sweeter and honey flavored. We cut it up and ate it and although it's good, it's not as good as the sweet, juicy red/pink flesh ones.

Random places Isa sleeps

2009-07-19T13:40:00.005-04:00

Apparently these places are more comfortable than her bed. One night, as I was checking on them for the last time, I walked into her room to find her bed empty. I looked out in the hall and couldn't see her. I immediately freaked out and ran into Sam's room, the bathrooms, and our room frantically looking for her. By then Rueben was in on it, calling out her name. (What had happen was) I hadn't finished laundry that day and had a couple of piles on the floor. She snuggled in between these two piles and was completely camouflaged. I felt like my heart had stopped.
Some nights she'll come into our bed and sleep at the end of our feet. She'll then wake up and walk back to her bed. She'll do this a couple of times during the night and then finally settle on our bed. Crazy little girl!

Catching up...

2009-07-19T12:53:00.009-04:00

Here are some pictures of what we have been up to this summer. We discovered the Natural Science Museum of Greensboro. It's so awesome and close. We'll be coming back for sure.

Rueben's true nature...

A couple of weeks ago, Sam fell off the monkey bars and fractured arm, right above the elbow. He's doing pretty well for the most part. Frustrated and bored. I'm racking my brains on a daily basis trying to find things that he can do that are fun. Any ideas would be appreciated. Doc said cast for 2 weeks, so it shouldn't be so bad and hopefully he'll be cast free for our beach trip.

Petting and combing the goats and lambs.

Milking a cow is hard, let alone with one hand.

Meerkats are awesome! We don't know what they were staring at, but they had the synchronized staring down.

Isa doesn't do well with loud noises and this T-Rex was loud.

Enjoying our weekly concert.

1 box + 3 kids = good times.

Before the fracture, Sam could swim the entire length of a swimming pool without floaties.

Getting the kids ready for a bath, Isa brings her princess crown to play with. Sam says, "You are going to be the queen of the sea Isabelle. Cool."
Isa decides she doesn't want to wear it so then Sam puts it on and says, "Then I will be the queen of the sea. I'll be the drag queen".
I pipe in at this time and say "whaaat?!?"
Sam: "I'm going to be the drag queen mom, don't worry I know what that means, it's a boy who dresses up like a girl. They are called drag queens."
Mom: "Who told you this Sam?"
Sam: "I saw it on the Bee movie".
Seriously...really?

One night as we were driving home from our Sat concert, Isa was playing "knock knock" with daddy. They were having so much fun that I wanted in on it.
Isa: Knock Knock
Mom: Whose there?
Isa: NOT YOU!!!!

I'm glad to report that Isa is using the potty like a big girl now. Diaper free existence is so wonderful. She wont even wear a pull up at night and she wakes up dry. It's about time :)

That's all folks...for now.

TKD video #2

2009-06-03T19:36:00.006-04:00

Isabelle was having a really rough day. She cried the entire time and nothing I did appeased her. The 3's are being really hard on her. They wreak havoc and overcome her sweet nature. All I can do is hold her and wait for this time to pass.

1st Tae Kwon Do tournament

2009-06-03T19:11:00.002-04:00

Sam had his first tae kwon do tournament last week and he did awesome. He scored 2nd place. At his age they compete to see who has the most focus and spirit. He's been pretty serious about his classes, ever since watching the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie. He'll roll around and front snap kick here and round house kick there. My favorite part is his facial expression. He scrunches his nose and furrows his brow and then he lets out a scream. It's awesome!

Preschool today, college tomorrow

2009-05-28T16:04:00.008-04:00

Today Sam graduated from preschool. The students put on a little show, singing songs and dancing before getting called up to receive their certificate. My heart swells with pride at seeing my little boy growing up. Each day he becomes more independent and as much as I love seeing him do for himself, it pains me to know that at the same time he needs me less. But he always manages to turn my frown back into a smile by telling me that he loves me, or when I dress up, how beautiful I look. I see my reflection in his eyes and I like what I see. I hear others say what a wonderful being he is and I pat my back cause we've done a good job. As much as he has learned from us, we have learned from him. Both him and Isa are our source of strength, love, patience, joy, sometimes frustration, and much laughter. Everyday holds something new and with bittersweetness I look forward to the future, to seeing my son grow both physically and mentally. I will cherish every day.

Dancing the mexican dance. I used to think that my poor child inherited his fathers non dancing genes (sorry honey), but after seeing him today, he can shake it like no other.

For this song they danced the macarena dance while singing the months of the year. It was by far my favorite.

Shhh...the little bird is sleeping.

Our proud preschool graduate holding up his certificate. If you notice, they missed the S in BLANCAS. I must have mentioned it to someone in passing because as soon as we got home, Sam grabbed a black crayon and wrote it in.

His teachers are excellent at what they do. Loving, patient and firm, together they helped foster the love of learning in Sam.

Always together.

Precious little girl. In a blink of an eye, she'll be next in getting her preschool certificate.

We already have a list of things we want to do this summer. Time is going to fly fast. Kindergarten here we come!

Memorial Day Weekend

2009-05-27T19:37:00.004-04:00

In the spur of the moment, our friends the Greenes and us decided to rent a cabin for the weekend. It was just what we needed to recharge our batteries.

Rocking away on the porch.

Sam and Jackson played Electronic Battleship for a long time. We were amazed at the length of time they played before it degenerated and they required time apart.

This was the backyard setting. It was just fantastic. The enclosed porch is a must in this area. There was a hot tub and a grill, a little stream, a fire pit, and green everywhere. There was also a single wide trailer that we didn't joke about once. :)

Jake was so good all weekend. He is such a good pup and we absolutely love him to pieces. So glad he is part of our family.

The kids minus the babe in arms. They ran around like crazy all day long and we still had to fight them at bedtime. Kids and their endless energy supply.

I love this picture of Isabelle.

We lucked out with this cabin.

This is a snake that the guys found. They called it copperhead and scared it away.

Sam climbing trees.

Fire Man!! We had a great time making smores and an even better time eating them. Yum!

This is what I got to do for a few hours on Sunday while the kids played Battleship. It was the best Sunday ever. Jenny and I even got to take naps during the day.

Graduation #1

2009-05-14T21:55:00.004-04:00

Today was the commencement ceremony for the nursing department at UNCG. Cap and gown graduation. Rueben is all done with the didactic part of the program. All that's left is 3 months of clinical and of course, passing licensure boards. Nothing really compared to what we have been thru. So, come August, it will all be but a bittersweet memory. These photos are out of order and I'm too tired to change them.

Honey, I love you and I am so proud of you.

Future graduates.

Can you spot Mr. Mustache?

My attempt to keep the kids quiet and happy. Lasted about 10 minutes max. Oh well, worth the try.

doggies and campouts

2009-05-14T21:32:00.004-04:00

Jake is doing really well in his puppy classes. He pretty smart and it only takes him a couple of times before he does what you want him to do. Rueben is his pack leader and Jake looks at him with such adoration.

His ears will flop down when he starts teething. He just got thru a week of biting everything in site.

This is his beer. It also works as a prop the "jake get me a beer" trick we are teaching him.

Rueben had the brilliant idea of letting the kids have a indoor camp out over the weekend. The kids loved it! They read books, ate snacks, invited Jake in. It was just awesome to see them play well together and have such a good time. I think it's going to be something that we do frequently.

us

2009-05-12T18:51:00.001-04:00

Here you go Christie. Don't you just love the blue background??

2009-05-11T21:26:00.002-04:00

A couple of months ago we went and got some pictures taken. We hadn't taken a family picture since the arrival of Isabelle. So, it was about time. Life at our house is good. My hip is getting better and I am able to put a little weight on it. Hopefully I'll be able to ditch the crutches in the next week or two. I've gotten pretty fast and my arms are looking good. But I'm sure Rueben is eagerly waiting for the day that I can get up and get my own drink. Speaking of Rueben, he graduates with his degree on Thursday. Hooray!!! I am extremely proud of my babe and our accomplishments. Now he just has to complete 3 months of clinical and come August, he'll be completely done with the program. It's so exciting. The next phase of our life is just around the corner. The kids are doing great. Their school will be over this month and I'm looking at summer camps to keep them busy over the summer.

Our beautiful girl has started showing interest in going potty in the toilet. It's not consistent but it's a start. We made a big deal with singing, dancing, praising, and balloons. Now, because of that, she expects me to dance and clap every time she goes. I have perfected my one legged dance to appease her. It will be a glorious day when not a single diaper lives at our house.

Our handsome boy is doing an excellent job at reading. He'll occasionally write me letters and if he can't spell words correctly, he will write them out phonetically. He keeps us laughing most of the time. He graduated to a different belt color in his Tae Kwon Do classes. And he's very much into recycling. He's just an amazing, well rounded little big boy.

They do a very good job at playing together and keeping each other entertained. My favorite is when after we have put them down for bed, I'll hear Isa walk into Sam's room, get in his bed, snuggle up in her blanket, and listen to Sam read books to her. They are best buds and I hope that never changes.

Pictures

2009-04-27T09:13:00.002-04:00

It's been a while since our last post. My computer was broken but all is better now. Here are some random pictures of some of the things we have done in the past few weeks.

Happy little girl turned 3. For months she's been asking to go to Chuck E.

Easter day was pretty fun. We started by painting hard boiled eggs. The kids had a great time with that. On Easter Saturday, they both received Easter baskets filled with yummies and off we went to an egg hunt.

These are my new accessories. Certainly not by choice. Somehow, I managed to receive a stress fracture on my femur neck with running. For weeks I was hobbling around with pain in my hip. Unaware of what it was, I continued to run and walk. Finally after not being able to run and barely walk, I went to get it checked out. I somewhat felt validated after the diagnosis, but my bone wasn't the only thing that was broken. It's maddening and painful, but things will recover in 6 more weeks. And I am fortunate enough to have a wonderful husband and a great mother who have helped in my recovery. I might have to switch to cycling, but at least I got to finish my first 5K in 30 minutes on a broken hip.

Animal lover and future veterinarian.

Park fun with friends

2009-03-31T19:05:00.002-04:00

These five are a handful! Thankfully they are super cute.

Being silly is so much fun.

Look mom! No hands.

Fearless leader of the pack.

Looking for the biggest stick.

Jakers!

2009-03-31T18:59:00.004-04:00

We absolutely love this cute lil pup. He will be 8 weeks this Thursday. Today he started scratching at the door and whining to be let out to potty. For the first time it's been an accident free day. YAY!!(Well...almost, because I decided to blog rather than watch him. Oops!). I wish it was that easy to potty train Isa. It's crazy how much he has grown and changed since we got him a week and a half ago.

His ears are getting bigger (so that he can hear us better).

A boy and his dog.

sciworks fun

2009-03-31T18:46:00.004-04:00

Enjoying the rare sunny spring day

2009-03-26T20:49:00.002-04:00

We took advantage of a sunny day by taking the kids to the park. Sam had a great time running around trying to fly his kite and Isa loved chasing after him. Looking forward to more sunny days!

Trying to study but there was just too much going on.

Our beautiful happy girl.

I don't ever get tired of giving her kisses. Can't really say she feels the same way.

Sneaking a drink from mommys drink.

It's flying!! It's flying!!

Our new baby Jake

2009-03-26T20:26:00.002-04:00

This little cute ball of fur is Jake. He is the new addition to our family. He is a German Shepherd and is 7 weeks old. He's a furry teddy bear, can be quite mouthy, and is bringing lots of smiles (some frowns) and happy giggles to our home. Looking forward to successfully house training him and enrolling him into some obedience classes.

Carolina winter in March?

2009-03-02T10:19:00.003-05:00

After raining all weekend, it finally got cold enough on Sunday to grace us with quite a few inches of snow. This isn't the kind of weather we expect in March, but we made the best of it. Who would have thought that we would have gotten some use of the snow boots we bought in Utah. Glad I brought them with us.

It's amazing how kids are impermeable to the cold. What a cute angel.

Snow princess Isa enjoys rolling around in the snow. She's an all seasons kinda girl.

He's gonna get you! Unfortunately the snow wasn't snowman friendly.

It's a bummer that we have the sled but no hill.

Scenes from the backyard. It started out sunny and then the clouds set in. It's brrrr...cold out there.

O.K. enough of this cold weather. We are ready for the sun and the humid heat.

Park fun

2009-02-07T18:08:00.003-05:00

Isa in her Princess Leah buns. Absolutely love this look.

Enjoying the nice weather. It's been pretty cold and we've had some "snowy" days. School gets canceled and we get cabin fever. Looking forward to the summer.

Sam climbed this all by himself but then he couldn't get down. And of course we didn't threaten to leave him there...it was kind of funny.

This is the best toy ever! Both the kids love to play with it. It makes the books interactive, educational, and fun. Thanks Nana and grandpa Steve!

Dentist visit

2009-02-05T13:32:00.003-05:00

I took the kids to see the dentist a few weeks ago and they were wonderful. We are very fortunate to have such wonderful kids. They did not freak out or scream. Sam wouldn't stop talking to the dental hygenist, charming her socks off. Isa kept laughing cause the teeth cleaning was tickling her. It was such a pleasant experience. Clean teeth and no cavities, I took them home and gave them some candy...just kidding.

All I need to know about life, I learn from my brother.

2009-02-05T13:23:00.002-05:00

Here is an excerpt of Sam and Isabelle's conversation last night. They were both laying on our bed watching TV before going to bed.

Sam: When you get older, you are going to have babies and you are going to have to be really brave for the doctor. The doctors are going to cut a hole in your belly and the baby will come out.

Isa: where's the baby Sam?

Sam: Right here, in your belly.

Isa: O.K. Sam.

Monster Truck Madness

2009-01-03T20:23:00.002-05:00

Last night we went to the monster truck show. It was a wonderous spectacle of alcohol fueled trucks and rednecks. We ate gummi bears, popcorn, flaming hot cheetos, nachos, toasted candy almonds, loads of pepsi with wads of orange foam stuffed in our ears. IT WAS AWESOME!!

From deep in the jungles of places like Alabama and Kentucky large hunks of metal are welded together into car destroying machines like the TRANSAURUS!!! This Chevy Lumina had no chance...hot fire breathing death came to it much like the fate of the American car companies.

This truck is called Martial Law, who promptly flipped onto its side as it attempted its first jump.

Here is Sam in front of what now passes for Bigfoot. I think it's pretty sad when the sponsor's lettering is bigger than the truck's name.

Here we are standing in front of Martial Law, this is about 40 minutes before he ended up on his back, Monster Trucks are funny.

Families are forever

2008-12-28T18:39:00.004-05:00

Tis the season. Family Celebrations

2008-12-28T14:15:00.008-05:00

Girls horse around too.

Pretty Bree!

Work it Kaitlyn!

Grrr...fierce love.

Showing grandpa Steve how the leapfrog pen works.

Attacking uncle Chris with hugs and kisses.

Thanks Nana and grandpa Steve for having us over for Christmas lunch.

Excited much?

Showing us her pretty teeth. Breakfast was delicious. Paige is an awesome cook. Thanks for making breakfast and inviting us over.

Being pampered by Emilie.

Sean is the youngest cousin. Isa kept saying it was her baby. She would make a great older sister.

Opening presents at grandma's house.

Individually these guys are really funny. I bet you can imagine when they come together.

singing "then your face will surely show it"

Cute Emilie. Sam and Isa had a great time with their cousins.

Love us some Christmas Story!

It was a Transformers Christmas.

Thank you grandpa Wayne for preparing such delicious food and getting us all together. Your house looks amazing! We might just have to employ this Richard person to come decorate our house once we are done with school. It was great hanging out with grandma Marge and grandpa Ray.

Decorating grandma's tree.

the daddy mac will make you jump jump

2008-12-28T14:04:00.003-05:00

Rueben having some fun with Bryson's pogo stick.

More snowboarding

2008-12-28T13:12:00.002-05:00

Sam snowboarding

2008-12-26T15:09:00.010-05:00

For Burnside eyes only!

2008-12-26T14:51:00.004-05:00

This is how we feel about you guys not being around for the holidays. Just kidding! Not really. We really did miss you guys. Our next trip somewhere, likely after graduation may have to be to Colorado.

Fun things Utah

2008-12-26T13:03:00.007-05:00

Watch and laugh

2008-12-18T01:32:00.002-05:00

I came across these videos and simply had to share them with you. They are hilarious!! This is for you Twilight fans out there. You know who you are...

Boo

2008-12-14T15:41:00.003-05:00

Sam scared the crap out of me when he decided to wear this mask and scare the crap out of me. Just looking at it makes me uncomfortable. Isa doesn't seem to mind it so much.

Sam was eager to go outside and help grandpa shovel the snow. He did such a good job. Way to go Sam, thanks for being so helpful.
Rueben, we are counting the days for you to get here. You have no idea how much you are being missed.

The Gateway

2008-12-14T14:56:00.005-05:00

Tina and I took the kids to the Gateway Museum and they had a great time. Here are some pictures of our outing. Isa is showing me her pretty teeth and at the same time making a scary face.

Cute Kiki hugging Bambi.

It appears to be a recurring look. I guess I should stop asking her to show me her pretty teeth.

More Birthday fun

2008-12-14T14:23:00.004-05:00

Sam and his cousin Bree looking cute as always. I think he finally knows who Bree and Emily are and how to tell them apart. He told me he couldn't remember who was who cause they both looked alike. Now he says Emily is the one who wears glasses.
Bree doing what she does best: Striking a pose.

Grandpa Steve followed Isa all over Chuck E Cheese. It was so cute. She was in good hands and mommy was able to use up Sam's tokens to aquire more tickets. Thanks Grandpa Steve.
Sam and his loot.

I wonder how long this Transformers phase is going to last.

Cute couple!

Up, Up, and away.

Miss you daddy!

2008-12-13T02:23:00.001-05:00

I know it hasn't even been a week, but we really miss you!

snowman

2008-12-13T02:02:00.003-05:00

Birthdays

2008-12-13T01:10:00.007-05:00

Sam turned 5 this week. Thank you uncle Andrew and aunt Paige for the cake/ice cream and balloons and the wonderful memories.
Sam, I love that I can have interesting conversations with you and that you make me laugh. I love that you are sensitive and affectionate. I love that you are polite and kind and take such good care of your sister. I love your random thoughts and your sense of humor. I love that you will sit down and watch Ben 10 even if it's not your favorite cartoon anymore, but because it's mommy's favorite. I love that you are an independent thinker, a fast learner, and you will always try any new food at least once. I love that you have common sense and that you will tell us to "Stop" when we are being silly. I love that at random times during the day you tell each one of us that you love us. I love to watch you sleep as much as I love to watch you play. I love that you like to help in the kitchen and will make up silly songs while cleaning. I love that you like going to school and how you will have a new story every time I pick you up. I love everything about you. I love watching you grow.

Making a wish.

Isa getting in on the action.

Sam had a really good time playing the piano. He kept dancing and hitting the keys. Maybe piano lessons are in his future.

The master teaching his pupil how to transform Optimus Prime.

About a week ago I had my 26th birthday. Well, not really, but I did have a birthday. This wonderful Bratz cake was picked out by Sam. He also picked out some flowers for me. Such a sweet little boy. One of the Bratz dolls caught on fire. Too many damn candles create a very dangerous fire hazard. After scrutinizing the dolls, Rueben and I decided that Isabelle is a Bratz doll. Little body, big hair, and pretty much a brat. A very cute one of course. Happy Birthday to me.

Turkey dinner and happy bathroom.

2008-12-02T19:41:00.002-05:00

We spent a great Thanksgiving at home. Rueben roasted a delicious turkey. He brined it over night in an apple sage solution then stuffed it with rosemary. I think this is his best yet. He is very proud of his turkey as I am of him. I helped with the cheesy potatoes and green beans. Consequently, we've had turkey ever since: turkey salad tostadas, turkey mole, and just plain ole turkey. Turkey, turkey, turkey. I am starting to feel and look like one. New Year's resolution number one....

Here's more pictures of my "extreme make-over" project. We refer to this as our happy bathroom. You just can't help but to feel elated when you are there. "Never before has pooping been such a sublime experience"- Rueben. I think he likes it.

Has it really been 4 weeks?

2008-12-02T17:12:00.007-05:00

I know it's been a while since our last post. I am going to attribute it to 3/4 being busy and 1/4 being lazy. My apologies for keeping you waiting, but I am ready to regale you with some of the things we have been doing lately. We are all doing well. Rueben is in the final weeks of this semester and couldn't be more thrilled about it. The kids are doing excellent in school and continue to enjoy it immensely. I have been busy painting the house, clearing out some of the clutter (that will be posted on Ebay come the new year), and at the moment packing for out trip to Utah. The kids and I are excited to be around our family and friends that we miss and love so much. Isa keeps talking about going to Grandma's and Nana's house, wanting to say thank you to Grandpa Wayne for the Christmas card, and meeting her cousin Sean. Sam is counting the days to see all of his grandparents and hang out with his cousins. Can't wait to see you all. Give me a call and let's get together!

Here are some of the funny things Isa is/has been doing lately.

She walks around singing the Imperial Death March, "dum dum dum dum dee dum dum dee dum". We always knew the dark side of the force resided in her.
She will growl "mom" if she has to say it more than two times.
She still laughs when she farts and proceeds to let everyone know.
She will mimic her brother doing tae kwon do and can actually punch better than Sam.

About a week ago, we had our first snow. It promptly melted in about 2 hours. The kids were so excited with Sam wanting to build a snowman. The schools were on a 2 hour delay. Fortunately our school opened and the kids didn't miss a day. Translation: Mommy got to spend some much needed quiet time at home.

The house in front is still for sale. Any takers?

Our friends the Greenes came over a few weekends ago and spent the night. We had such a great time hanging out. We went to Old Salem and had some ice cream.

I don't know why Jackson is not smiling, but I suspect that Sam had something to do with it.

Isa holding little Mckay. He is such a cute quiet baby. I would forget that he was even around at times.

After playing in his room quietly, Sam came down in this get-up. He was dressing for success. Here are some stories about Sam.

The other day, Sam's pant zipper was down. Rueben told him to "close your barnyard door or your horse will get out" which elicited this response, "I don't have a horse in my pants. All I have in there is my penis. It's like a cannon, you know, cause it shoots out lots of pee."
He thinks that his laptop is smarter than his teacher.
The other night he was trying to tell us something and we were being silly and pretending not to understand. In a very frustrated yell he said, "STOP PARENTS!!"
He is starting to read simple sight words.

This is what I have been doing the past month. We decided to add some color to our white walls and make our home feel more like home. I am proud to say that I did 95% of the work: prepping, painting, and cleaning. I loved every minute of it. I am still not done. Just need to paint the master bed and bath. But that will just have to wait. If anyone needs any painting done, I will be more than happy to oblige. In the living room, I used a sandstone textured paint and it turned out pretty awesome looking. We are hoping that this will eventually increase our home value. Maybe.

Isa's room was the most time consuming but it turned out pretty neat. I thought about using a laser for the lines which would have shaved hours off, but decided against it when I saw that they cost a fortune. Unfortunately a few days after I started painting, Isa started saying that purple was her favorite color. Oh well. I guess she will have to wait for a purple room.

This is by far my favorite room. It's Rueben's study room/my reading room. I used a canyon orange for the base and sponged a burnt orange over it. For being my first sponging project I kicked ass.

And this is Sam's room right after I was done painting. Sorry I haven't taken an official after picture. I will have to do that later.

Bubble Wrap Fun!

2008-12-02T16:57:00.003-05:00

If I knew that the bubble wrap was the secret to keeping a couple of high energy kids happy , I would have bought some a long, long time ago. This went on for about 15 minutes. 15 happy, giggles, no tears, know exactly what your kids are doing and they are playing together minutes. It was good.

Halloween and Happy Birthday Rueben!

2008-11-01T10:58:00.000-04:00

State Fair

2008-11-01T10:55:00.000-04:00

Adventures in Myrtle Beach

2008-09-30T19:12:00.000-04:00

London trip

2008-09-23T09:19:00.006-04:00

It's been almost 2 weeks since we were fortunate enough to visit London for my friend Vickie's wedding. It was such a wonderful experience and even though we only visited for 4 days, these memories will last us forever. We want to thank my mom for flying out to watch the kids, to Vickie for allowing me to be part of her special day, to Jo for hosting us with a comfy bed, and to our bank for having the point reward system which purchased our airline tickets. We couldn't have done it without any of you! The flight there wasn't terrible. We left in the evening and got there around 6 am. The worst was getting out of Heathrow. It took us 3 hours to get to London. After a short nap, we were ready for the day. I went off to do fun stuff with the girls and Rueben went sightseeing. The next day, we did have a few hours to ourselves, so we walked around, had lunch on the steps of St. Paul's Cathedral, walked across the Millennium Bridge and The River Thames, went inside a prison and learned many a things about torturing, walked past the Globe Theater and on across the Tower Bridge and past the Tower of London. We got a good share of double decker bus rides and the Tube. Awesome transportation methods! Saturday was the wedding and Sunday in the am we came home. It was fast and furious, but so much fun. We look forward to visiting again and taking time to sight see some more. And of course, spend more time with our friends. Maybe you will join us! The Tower Bridge. It is often mistakenly called the London Bridge. Rumor has it that American Robert McCulloch bought the London Bridge thinking he was purchasing the bridge in the picture. He had it moved and the London Bridge (not as magnificent) is currently located in Lake Havasu City in AZ. Robert denied the rumor and stated that he knew which one he had purchased. The English are still laughing about it.
Walking across the Tower Bridge and taking advantage of the awesome backdrop.

The Tower of London. We didn't have time to venture inside, but the outside is just amazing. The Crown Jewels reside inside. It was built in 1078 by William the Conqueror. It has been a fortress, a royal palace and a prison. We can't wait to see the inside!

The Tube. Underground transportation. Faster than walking or taking the buses but it still takes a while to get from point A to point B. Our favorite saying, "Mind the gap".

Another shot of the Tower of London and the Gherkin building.

The Millennium Bridge. It crosses over the River Thames.

St. Paul's Cathedral in the background.

The Globe Theater. It was built in 1599 by Shakespeare's playing company. It was destroyed by fire in 1613 and later rebuilt a year later.

Looking across the River Thames.

The following are some pictures of the wedding.

The bridesmaids. Lindsey, me, Heather, and Jo. Fantastic and wonderful people.

The happy couple.

I absolutely love these pictures of Rueben and I. They are brilliant. He is so good looking and I love him with all my heart, body, and soul. We make an awesome couple, eh?

Bustin' a sweat

2008-09-04T09:45:00.002-04:00

7 weeks ago, we decided it was time to get into shape. After spending some hours watching the infomercials and seeing drastic changes in what they say were untouched pictures of befores and afters, and knowing someone who has actually tried it (thanks Dee), I was sold on P90X. These are extreme workouts people! It consists of 12 tear and sweat inducing workouts. It includes a diet, that honestly I cannot follow. But we are trying to eat healthy and less processed foods. The program brags, that if done correctly, you can go from regular to ripped in just 90 days. It uses "muscle confusion" to target all muscle groups and preventing them from hitting a plateau. The only confusion I felt the first few weeks was in my head, asking myself "what have I gotten ourselves into?" This program is designed for people who have reached their optimal goal and want to increase muscle weight, increase strength, and flexibility. We were not in optimal shape or condition to begin this program, but we did anyway. The fit test consisted of being able to do a certain number of push-ups, pull ups, and doing jumping jacks for 2 minutes straight. I shamefully could not do one single pull up or 2 minutes of jumping jacks and could maybe do 2 push ups on my knees. After the first week, we couldn't even move. Every muscle hurt. It was miserable, but we plugged along. Now in the 7Th week, I can say that I feel stronger. I might not looked "ripped" yet and I might still weigh the same, but I see some definition in my arms and legs and I can actually do 6 push ups off my knees. Rueben, of course, is starting to look buff, but that's because he naturally has less body fat to begin with. These workouts last about an hour. The hour is full of grunting, sweating, swearing, laughing, farting and then more laughing, awkward movements, balancing and falling down, and just good old fun. We try to do it together, cause it's more fun when you do it with a workout buddy. We encourage each other and do what Tony Horton (the instructor) says...we bring it and do our best and forget the rest. We hate it, but we love it!!! Hahaha! And to any of you who are thinking about doing it (Charlie), get going! Just the fact that you are doing something to improve your health is awesome enough. We will spare you our before pictures, but hopefully at the end of our 90 days, we will post our new and improved new bodies. Maybe.

Sam can yell really loud.

2008-09-03T22:27:00.003-04:00

School's cool!!

2008-09-03T21:38:00.004-04:00

These last few weeks have been kinda busy for us. Rueben started school last Thursday. So far it hasn't been as bad as last year, but then again, we might just be used to it by now. Labor day weekend was very low key. We didn't do very much...a staycation if you may. Oh, we did kinda clean out the garage, more like rearranging the crap that we have. We seriously need to hold a yard sale and just get rid of many a things. We figure if it's been sitting in the garage for a year, why bother having it. But we are "pack-rat" people, we hoard in hopes that one day, if the need arises, it will be in the garage under 10 ft of dust and spiderwebs.
The kids started preschool on Tuesday. Sam is in a Kinder Readiness program and will be attending 5 days a week from 9-12 am. I was having anxiety over him being gone, of not being there with him, of being home by myself, but his excitement makes it more bearable. He was so thrilled that the night before, he had picked and set out his clothes, hurried and brushed his teeth and went straight to bed. Not once did he get out of bed. In the morning when I woke him up, he was up like a flash, dressed and ready for breakfast. He picked out a Star Wars backpack, put it on and was ready to go. He had a great day and was excited about meeting his new friends. By this morning, the novelty had worn off and when I went to get him up, he promptly in a sleepy voice says "I don't wanna go to schoooool". HAHA!! This will be great at getting him ready for next year when he'll be gone full days. I can't believe that we are here already!! My little boy is growing up so fast!
Isa is also going to a class for 2 yr olds. She will go for the same hours, but only 3 days. She's mostly going for the socialization. We'll see how it goes. If she doesn't like it, I will just keep her home for the next 20 years! She picked out a Dora The Explorer backpack with wheels and she likes to wheel it all around the house.

Going to school!

So Sam has been talking about doing karate. As we were driving back home from school, he saw a sign for Tae Kwan Do. I figured why not. We got him a few lessons. We went back in the evening and he did awesome. He was really focused and eager to show them that he could kick really high. They talk and teach about respect, focus, self control, self esteem and listening. I think this might just work out for him. We'll see what happens. I'll post some video.

superkids

2008-08-20T21:20:00.004-04:00

Sam and Isa have been playing really well together. Sam cannot go without including her in everything, especially in making trouble. Isa is understanding more and following Sam's lead and at times being the mastermind. She is big into "I do it". Miss independent. Miss funny. Miss temper tantrum. She throws the biggest tantrums I have ever seen. Jumping up and down, clenching her fists, howling at the top of her lungs, and of course, throwing herself at anything soft (miss smart girl). It's comical and most the time we have to turn around and laugh. We have institituted the 1,2,3...timeout with her and it's been pretty effective. She sits in the time out chair for 30 seconds and even though she doesn't like it, she sure shapes up after. Ahh the terrible 2's. Good thing she's cute...
Here are a few of the funny things she does:
-Whenever she sees herself, either in a picture or in the mirror, she says "you! you! you!" That's because we always say, "that's you in the picture Isa".
-Whenever she's finished doing something she says "all done" in a growling voice like our friends twins.
-Her temper tantrums...for the time being.
-She chases Sam around yelling "I'm gonna get you!"
-She laughs everytime she farts.
-Everytime she plays with her Elmo dishes, she wants bananas to eat off them. (I used to do this when I was a child and I didn't even teach her)
-She will slowly, but surely rearrange random items throughout the house. It's been weeks since we last saw our remote control.
-She loves to color on the walls. (Not very funny at first)
-She'll smell our feet and say while scrunching her nose "ewwww stiiinky!"

Happy Graduation Charlie, Good luck Gladwells!!

2008-08-20T20:08:00.005-04:00

On Sunday we attended our friend Charlies graduation. It's hard to believe that we have been here one year. Consequently, Charlie is done with the program and him and his family have left the state. Moving on to the splendid life of the post graduate...sort of. With his graduation comes the realization that we have but only one year left. It's like a breath of fresh air. And with fear of sounding trite, it seems like it was only yesterday that we were settling and getting used to our surroundings. Not knowing what lay ahead of us, what new trial was about to begin. It certainly hasn't been about the destination. Our journey has been filled with happy smiles and tearful eyes. From the empty void of not having our family around, to a filling sense of knowing that we have made great friends for life. To know that the sacrifices that we make today only secure a better life for ourselves and our families tomorrow. To our families, thank you for your continued love and support. We couldn't do it without you. To our friends (far and near), thank you for your support, your words of wisdom and the laughs, and to Charlie and Kay, thank you for showing us the ropes, for being such a good senior buddy to Rueben, for the wonderful cook outs and for including us in your celebration. We will miss our games after dinner, especially Charlie's impersonation of a guy parachuting...that was priceless. We will see you again, soon. Good luck with boards, your new home, and with your beautiful childern. And, although I wont post it, Charlie sang a Josh Groban song, "Thankful" and it was beautiful. We truly are are thankful and next year, we'll be graduated! Better than Josh G.

Sam was looking really good in his shirt and tie.

Say cheese!

2008-08-09T20:37:00.005-04:00

About a week ago we had our friend Kristin take some pictures of us. We were hoping for a sunny day but we got cloudy and somewhat rainy. Nevertheless, the weather was the least of our problems. Getting 2 kids to cooperate and smile simultaneously is like pulling teeth without anesthesia. Thanks Kristin! I know you tried your hardest, but if it's ok, we'll have to do it again.

Flashback Friday: Two wild and crazy guys

2008-08-01T20:03:00.002-04:00

Check this out, what do you get with wide collars and

super hot velour clothing, that's right, two super hot

dudes. I mean seriously, just look at that hair, it's like

two fantastic comb-overs minus the bald spots. Another

awesome detail is the tucking in of the velour sweater

Andrew is sporting, and I have no idea why my hands

are in my pockets. Enjoy this little nugget of dorkiness everybody.

Conversations with a 4 year old

2008-07-30T09:53:00.003-04:00

Sam has an obsession with marriage and women having children. It's actually quite interesting and provides us with some laughs and fond memories. Here is a conversation about marriage we had one day while I was cooking.

Sam: Mom, I'm going to marry you.
Me: No Sam, mom is married to daddy.
Sam: Then I will marry Isabelle.
Me: No, you can't marry your sister or any family member for that matter.
Sam: Then who am I going to marry?
Me: Well, you will marry someone you don't know, someone you will meet later and fall in love with.
Sam: Well, (pauses and you can just see the wheels turning) what if there are a lot of girls who want to marry me? How am I going to choose just one?
Me: (What??!!??) You will know which one to choose and she's going to be one lucky lady. You can always marry Kiki or if you dig older chicks, then Olivia or Grace.
Sam: But I already know them. You said someone I don't know and they are my friends.
Me: It's okay to marry a friend.
At this point, Sam looks at me like I am crazy and walks away. He has really perfected that look.

The other topic is about children. Sam knows that only women can have children. He knows that women carry their babies in their belly's and that when the baby is ready to come out, the doctor cuts a hole and pulls the baby out. We had this conversation while driving in the car.

Sam: Mom, how many babies does Isabelle have in her belly and when are they going to come out?
Me: I don't know honey. She's going to decide how many babies to have and they wont come out until she is older...much older.
Sam: Well why can't we get them out now. I want to see them.
Me: Isabelle is just a baby herself. She needs to grow up big like mommy before she has babies. What about you, when are you going to have babies.
Sam: I can't have babies, silly mom!!
Oh right, what was I thinking??

Sometimes we wonder exactly where he came from as we look at him in awe. One night, after our bedtime routine, he came into our room for the 6th time to ask us a question. He has endless questions. Well, on his forehead he had stuck a piece of play doh. And because I did not want to keep him from going to sleep, I didn't ask him what was up with the doh. Even though I really wanted to know.

Sam: (on his way out) Aren't you going to ask me about the play doh?
Me: (you can see right thru me huh?) Since you brought it up, what's with the play doh?
Sam: I want to see if I wake up with it.
Me: Okay, good luck and good night.

Sam goes to bed. A few minutes later, he comes back in with another question. By this time we had lost it but before we could yell at him to get back in bed, it took one look at him for us to bust up laughing. I know it's hard to tell from the picture, but he taped the play doh to his forehead. Who needs luck when you have tape!

Hair today, gone tomorrow

2008-07-25T19:02:00.002-04:00

For today's flashback Friday, we are going with some old school hair pictures of Rueben and I when we were in 8th grade. Even then, we were mad stylin! Fortunately some styles fade (for some people). I am just glad to report that we did not get stuck in some funky time warp. All I can say is that I would spend countless hours getting my "bangs" to look just right with adequate height and fullness. Then this "wall of China" would become impervious to any adverse weather with massive amounts of Aqua Net hairspray. I was an addict! I am actually back to having bangs or a "fringe", but I have not been able to duplicate this look. I am lacking Aqua Net. Do they even make it anymore??
Rueben is sporting the timeless mullet with a twist. Business up front, party in the back. His product of choice was Paul Mitchell mouse and with that he would get it spiky and it would smell like coconut all day long. It was delicious! With this look, Rueben would render the girls speechless and powerless. We were both hot messes in the making. Fierce!! Oh, and check out the popped collar. When you got it, you got it!

Flashback Friday: This is the sleep lab, not the move lab!

2008-07-18T20:03:00.004-04:00

This posting is dedicated to the brave men and women

of the Sleep Lab. These wonderfully grainy photos were

captured by the old sleep lab polaroid, an archaic

method of producing instant pictures, however an awesome tool

for amusement at three a.m. after the Beto's power surge has worn off.

Here I am mounting Andrew as he attempts to sleep in the

sleep lab, seriously did he think I was going to let him sleep

when I was awake and bored? There is nothing

quite like mounting your brother in the wee hours of the morning...breathtaking.

Here we see Ron Jeremy in his early years,

few people know that Andrew was actually part

of the motivation for the glorious Maystache movement,

this look predates the actual Maystache by at least five years.

Seriously, can you say

Sleazetastic?!!!

Hi I'm Rueben, I enjoy wearing headgear at night to straighten my teeth,

reading LOTR and re-enacting famous chess games.

Remeber Andrew trying to sleep in the chair?, well this time

he decided to wear a helmet in case I tried to attack him again.

Honestly, he didn't have a pillow and discovered that his head

was very comfortable using Spencer's helmet to sleep.

Here is sissy Spencer, "I'm cold, I'm cold". j/k he's not a sissy, but he

was whining about being cold. He does look pretty sweet all arabic style..

Home early + sunny day = bike ride

2008-07-14T21:39:00.006-04:00

Today we went out for a 10 mile bike ride. Notice the caution sign approximately at Sam's eye level. He had seen it and played with it. He knew that it was connected to a steel cable. So, I wonder how it was possible for him to run into it? Our son is accident prone. He ran towards it, head long straight into it. Clothesline. Before we knew it, he was laying on the ground crying. Fortunately he was fine, only a small goose egg on the back of his head. Are all 4 year olds like this? We tell him all the time to watch what he is doing, watch where he is going. I wish I could build a bubble around him. We would call him Bubble Sam. Parents can always dream.

Looking cool. Even after getting hurt.

A man and his bike.

Sam rode his bike for a little over 4 miles. He's a maniac. Here comes Sam.

There goes Sam.

2 kids in a trailer. We figured the combined weight is about 150 after adding Sam's 75lb solid steel Walmart bike. We took turns pulling.

This was a very steep hill.

Isa is wearing a very old dress. This was my dress when I was little. I never imagined that I would be putting this dress on my own little girl. Rueben told her she looked like Wednesday from the Addam's Family. All I know is that she is the most beautiful girl ever.

Meet the new family members!!

2008-07-12T22:21:00.002-04:00

These are red-eared sliders that we got on Hilton Head Island. They are super awesome and tiny, and they are fast swimmers. They eat bugs and if you touch them and then eat a sandwich, you will get salmonella and poop your brains out. (We promise we wont do that). Sam gave them each names. This is Goldie.

This is Rocco.

These turtles can live up to 40 years. They grow to be between 10-14 inches long. We are looking forward to seeing them grow.

Mini golf and more beach fun

2008-07-12T22:00:00.005-04:00

Per Sam's request, we went out for miniature golf. He loved it and had a great time. Isa on the other hand, did not. That's alright though, she is still too little. It was fun anyway.

Hilton Head history and stuff

2008-07-09T15:38:00.009-04:00

Hilton Head was named for Capt. William Hilton, an Englishman who sailed into Port Royal Sound in 1663 and wrote about the green headlands of the island. It is off the southern coast of South Carolina. People lived on the island about 3,800 years ago. Beginning in 1526 Spanish, French and English colonists attempted to settle in the territory but were troubled by American Indian raids and pirates. By the mid 18th century English plantations were established. They prospered, growing indigo, rice and sea island cotton utnil the Civil War, when Union troops used the island as a base to block Confederate ports. In 1956 the bridge to the mainland was completed, and the island developed into an all year resort. Below are some pictures of South Beach, Harbour Town, and just out and about around town.

This is Will, our friends son. He is madly enamored with Isabelle. Always telling her she's beautiful.

Sam at the bar enjoying a kiddie cocktail.

This is what happens as soon as you take your camera out. The lens gets all fogged up. Below is a much clearer picture.

Hilton Head

2008-07-07T13:59:00.005-04:00

This week we are in Hilton Head Island in South Carolina. Rueben is attending an anesthesia conference. Good excuse heh? It is a beautiful place albeit busy and crowded. The weather hasn't been the greatest. Cloudy with occasional showers. We've been listening to thunder for the last couple of hours. But that is not stopping us from enjoying the beach.
Building sandcastles and making holes.

Seriously, something needs to be done about her hair. I swear I comb it. I told her I was going to shave it bald.

The sand looks and feels like clay. Very different from the OBX sand.

Goofing around.

Today we went to the Coastal Discovery Center because it was rainy. I couldn't help dressing Isabelle as a pioneer girl. Thankfully both children were in a very cooperative mood. She looks so adorable. My own personal doll.

More pictures of our trip to follow.

Fishing, fireworks, and what not

2008-07-06T13:09:00.006-04:00

We went out fishing for the 4th. Rueben found this cool lake full of fishies. Sam took his Scooby Doo fishing pole and we used hotdog for bait. As soon as he casted he snagged a fish. So proud of him.
Our friends. They kept going after the bait once it was in the water.

Hey, how you doing?

Reeling like a pro.

Proudly showing off his first catch. He kept saying "let's take it home so I can eat it".

The bait. This hornet was going crazy stinging the hotdog over and over. Rueben finally cut it in half. Surprisingly, it survived and crawled away, hurled itself onto the lake where it met death in the form of a fish.

So it rained in the evening and we didn't feel like driving 15 miles to see fireworks. We bought some from Sam's and had our own little show in front of our house. It was very much to our surprise that Isabelle did not like the firecrackers at all. She didn't want to be part of the festivities. Apparently there is something she is afraid about.

"all done!" We took pity on her and took her inside.

"Is it dark enough?"

Isa on the couch watching TV while we watched the fireworks outside. She would not come out.

Yes, my boy is silly. Wearing his PJ's and his cowboy hat. Loving the firework show put on by daddy.

Utah fun

2008-07-04T22:58:00.007-04:00

At Fat Cats riding the bumper cars.

I don't know who was having more fun.

Making it work.

The water fountains at the Union Station. Both like to pretend that they are trains. Sam will actually roll his arm around when he is walking. Come to think of it, he does it everytime he walks. It's his strut. Choo Choo!

My son is amazing.

Isa doesn't fall short behind her brother. Everything he does, she wants to do. The only thing that scares me is that she has absolutely no fear.

This is before getting all dirty and clothes coming off.

Missing 1/4 of the mix. Enjoying the scenery and playing musical chairs inside the FrontRunner.

Stay off the sidewalks! Crazy Utah driver behind the wheel.

I'm sure when he does this for real, gas will be $15 a gallon.

Row, Row, Row your boat....

Isa flying away.

Being part of the flight team.

Let's build something.

After getting over his fear of the pain, Sam wore this earring for half the day.

Our little outdoor girl. She takes after her father. As soon as she's outside, she wants her shoes off and she wants to roll in the dirt. She is more outdoorsy than Sam and definitely not afraid to get dirty. I've learned to just let it be and not fight it. Clothes can be washed. She was so excited for the stream.

Even though they fight like cats and dogs, they don't like being away from each other. Sam is an excellent older brother and is very protective of Isa.

Climbing trees is so much fun.

All the kids minus Grace and Gavin.

Juls getting his feet wet.

Awesome friends Tina and Jenn. To think that it was just us to begin with. We are well overpowered now, but I am sure we wouldn't want to have it any other way. All of our kids are great.

Feeding the ducks at Beus Pond. Having a good time.

Lucky to have grandparents

2008-07-04T22:13:00.004-04:00

Our children are very fortunate to have such wonderful grandparents. They are fun, loving, giving, and just exeptional people. Sam's favorite thing about visiting Utah was spending time with all of his grandparents. And even though I didn't catch a picture of Nana and grandpa Steve, I know that Sam had a wonderful time at the movies. He kept talking about the games he played at the mall. We'll see you all in December.

Out fishing for trout at the fish farm. Sam caught his first fish there. Grandma also had a great time.
Like father, like son.
Sam was excited to take his fish home.

Adorable.

Grandma and her girl.

Both Sam and Isabelle had a wonderful time at grandpa Wayne's house. This is their first miniature horseback ride. They didn't go anywhere, but their smiles travelled far. Thank you grandpa Wayne. We are lucky to have you in our lives.

Our trip on the FrontRunner. It took us about an hour to get from Ogden to SLC. It was a lot of fun. Sam says his favorite was riding the Trax once we were in SLC.
"We are going fast"

Grandparents equals happy children. Sam is constantly reminding me that he wants to live in Ogden because he misses his grandparents.

The saddle that will be used on the horse next time we visit. Even though the kids think grandpa did an excellent job being the "horse".
Much lighter load.

Sam and the super soaker.