Our Bailey Kin

ADORABLE!!!

2011-02-14T20:24:00.000-08:00

Christmas!

2010-12-27T09:03:00.000-08:00

We had a great Christmas with Grannie, Grandpa, and Aunt Anna! (and the next day, Jonahs favorite thing to play with was a box.......)

And....

2010-12-23T21:22:00.000-08:00

Christmas pictures to come soon. As long as i dont slack on blog posting for another 2 months....

Jonah got a retainer!

2010-12-23T21:20:00.000-08:00

I Love love love this picture of Ireland!

2010-12-23T21:18:00.000-08:00

Christmas pajamas from Oma!

2010-12-23T21:14:00.000-08:00

(im wearing glasses b/c my eyes were light sensitive from the LASIK).
Yes!!! I FINALLY got LASIK...the day before this picture was taken- Its amazing!!!!)

Eating crab with Skyler

2010-12-23T21:12:00.000-08:00

Its a tradition. We always have to eat crab when we get together. We usually go for crab cakes, but this time we decided to be more adventurous!

Christmas tree lighting with our favorite family...the Lyons

2010-12-23T21:09:00.000-08:00

HALLOWEEN!!

2010-11-01T14:18:00.000-07:00

Pumpkin Patch

2010-10-29T17:31:00.001-07:00

Enjoyed a night at a pumpkin patch and a "spooky" train ride with our California family, The Lyons (and the others who are always at their house....i guess they cant get rid of them - haha). We love you guys!

L to R: Mama Roseanne, Gentle Jonah, Favorite Catelyn, Hubby Jacob, Queen Ireland
L to R: Papa Paul, Ridiculous Russell, Unflustered Brit, Mother Ember, Handsome Tobin, Other Favorite Courtney, Silly Auntie Rose.

No, im not peeing my pants. I obviously havent practiced the "make yourself look hot pose". Must have missed that Oprah episode.

Disney on Ice

2010-10-29T13:33:00.003-07:00

Got free tickets to Disney on Ice! It was...long and full of characters that my kids didnt know. But we still had a great time. Especially watching Ireland scream with excitement each time she saw Mickey Mouse. And of course, i couldnt have done it without Catelyn and Courtneys help!

Ireland playing the piano

2010-10-28T20:26:00.000-07:00

Our people.....

2010-10-21T08:34:00.000-07:00

We went to an amazing concert of one of our favorite groups. Mumford and Sons. (http://www.mumfordandsons.com/)
It was hard to take a video and not move because all i wanted to do was jump up and dance with the crowd! Ahhh......Mumford always feels right.....

Feeding ducks with dad

2010-10-21T08:25:00.000-07:00

Irelands Birthday!!

2010-10-21T08:09:00.000-07:00

For Irelands 2nd Birthday, we had a small playdate party at Cynthias house. It was great, kids played outside in the beautiful weather while us moms chatted and stuffed our faces with chocolate cupcakes. While Oma was here, Ireland opened her birthday presents and loved every one! Happy Birthday Mullet Princess!

Irelands Gymnastics

2010-10-21T08:06:00.000-07:00

Tobins Birthday!

2010-09-14T20:54:00.000-07:00

I was too lazy to plan a party so we decided to celebrate our little mans 4th birthday at a bowling alley. And....it was a success!! A few close friends (aka - our ONLY friends) showed up and we all enjoyed losing track of whose turn it was and trying to keep the kids from running after the bowling ball and onto that slippery shiny floor..... Tobin had a ton of fun! And he actually ate a couple of bites of the red frosting from his costco cake (he doesnt like cake or ice cream....)
Happy Birthday Tobe-ster! You keep our family from being structured, orderly, and boring.... And we totally love you for it!!!

To Golden Gate Park with Uncle Skyler

2010-08-30T05:45:00.001-07:00

Jonah looooves his opa!

2010-08-30T05:44:00.000-07:00

To Utah

2010-08-28T19:24:00.000-07:00

To Wheeler Farm with friends....

Swimming at Oma and Opa's.....

Hanging out at Aunt Brookes house with cousins...

The kids were so excited to see Uncle Zack when he got home from work!

And a drive up to the cabin followed with a little nature stroll....

Reading with Opa.

JUMP!

2010-08-12T08:36:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago the beanbags were in the kitchen while the carpets were drying from being cleaned. I walked into the kitchen to see this: My young children announcing that they were jumping from the counter onto the beanbags. They had a blast and i think this picture captures Irelands intentions very well! My camera isnt fancy enough to catch a good pic of a mid-air jump, so use your imagination. Your smiling, right?......

We love when Grannie and Grandpa come to visit!

2010-08-12T08:35:00.000-07:00

Swimming at Cate's house!

2010-08-12T08:30:00.000-07:00

We love going to Cate's house (our babysitter, and my dear friend who keep me feeling young!!!) to swim. Here's a few pics of the last time we were there (and yes, the hottie in the white bikini is Cate!)

Under the sea

2010-08-12T08:27:00.001-07:00

This summer Jonah was in a very cool summer camp for persons with special needs. He loved it so much that each day he resister coming home with me! One day the camp held and under the sea day and campers were supposed to dress up. Jonah loved his Nemo attire and wore the hat all day. When i finally took it off, his hair was 100% wet from sweat! And check out the delicious cookies he made (can you find them beneath the sprinkle mess?) He devoured them in the way home.

Little helper

2010-08-12T08:24:00.000-07:00

Ireland likes to help me unload the utensils from the dishwasher. She still needs to work on her organization skills, but it'll do for now. Until then, it gives me a good chuckle to see the utensils all ska'wampus in the drawer.

Friends

2010-07-10T07:21:00.001-07:00

Sharon (Jennies mom), Ali (Jennies sister), and her kids are in town for the week and came over yesterday to hang out. My kids were thrilled to have visitors. Tobin was jumping and smiling all over the place. Ireland loved following Hannah around and playing with her - she's never had an older girl to play with before. And Jonah, well...Jonah was Jonah. Antisocial. But at least he was present. He usually heads up to his room at the sight of kids invading his territory; but this time he stayed close by. I was shocked! I then realized he discovered his own coping mechanism for when kids get too close to him. He would close his eyes when kids came into view. If they were on his left side, he'd close his left eye; right side = right eye closure....These next few pictures show how Jonah reacted to Ben and Hannah running around and around the dining room area. I was laughing so much it was hard to get a sharp picture...
The kids passing by on the right side of his body

out of sight
coming up on the right side...

passing by....

If you arent laughing now, there is something wrong with you.

Ali and Sharon
Tobin actually played next to Ben, he only stole Bens trains a couple of times! Ben was so patient with Tobin, it was awesome!
I had to bribe Jonah with m&m's to stand in this picture. He seems happy enough about it! (and yes, i couldnt pry tobin from the computer. He has mastered using the mouse and always want to play games - he requests "sesame street dot com?")
Another m&m bribe for a hug...
The girls wanted in on the candy too! Ireland cried when Hannah left, she loved playing with her so much.

And...we finally got a camera

2010-07-10T07:10:00.001-07:00

This is Irelands Squirrel; she loves it and sleeps with it each night.
Jonah hanging out in a bucket at our friend Cynthias house. He got in it to "protect" himself from her little dogs.
Doing Ring-around-the-rosies with Abigail...

About half the time we were there, Ireland walked around with these keys hanging out of her mouth.
What kid doesnt love a day of jumping and swimming?

Those are some nice abs for a 3 year old.....

Jonah lost his front teeth a couple of weeks ago, this is the first real picture we have of his new grin (and it breaks my heart that someday he will need braces....that'll be stressful...)

Yes, i learned my lesson.

2010-06-02T08:21:00.000-07:00

We have no camera. Our beautiful blond little devil of a child broke it by throwing it on the stone floor when he was throwing a tantrum. Why did he even have the camera you ask? Well, that would be my fault. You know those days (moments) when your kid is asking and whining and asking and whining and you cant take it anymore so you just give in. Well, it was one of those moments. He was asking for rectangle (camera) and i gave him ours. I usually give him his camera (our old brick of a camera that he loves to play with), but he broke that one a couple of weeks earlier. So at my weak moment of parenting, i gave him our real camera to stop him from bothering me; and now i am paying for it. It is so annoying to not have a camera! But we will replace it, someday. Until then, no fun blog posts. Schmeh!

Octopretzel

2010-05-18T21:18:00.001-07:00

While Laura was here, we drove for an hour to get to an Octopretzel concert. They are a local Jewish group that sings great kid songs. We listen to them everyday on the way to school. The concert was small, free, and outdoors. Combine all of those wonderful elements and you have an hour of happy children! It was totally worth it to see Tobin light up and dance (of course the camera didnt catch those moments - ok, ok, it wasnt the cameras fault. it was my fault). And even more worth it when Jonah grabbed Tobins hands and they danced together - without tantrums! Ahhhhh.....

Lauras visit

2010-05-18T21:13:00.000-07:00

This has just been the month (well, 2 months really) of oodles of visitors. This weekend, we were able to spend time with Laura (Jakes sister for those of you who cant tell) Well, i slacked with taking lots of pictures during Lauras visit. But i did get the two most important ones. The ugly purse picture. And the "lets not smile and not tell ember" picture.

Playing with Abigail

2010-05-18T21:08:00.000-07:00

There's just something about those pigtails....

2010-05-18T21:03:00.000-07:00

Skylers visit

2010-05-18T20:50:00.000-07:00

...was awesome! Started off with a nice 12 hour drive back to California. Of course we had to stop at the rock painted like a monster (somewhere in Nevada) for pictures. We spent a day at the zoo, watched movies, walked around hippie college town in Berkeley, and lastly - i got my heart ablation procedure done. Skyler helped with the kids during my short recovery (all is well, i'm doing great!). I felt totally spoiled to have my brother here for almost 3 weeks. It was rough becoming a mom again without constant adult company. Schmeh!

She sure loves chocolate!

2010-05-18T20:45:00.001-07:00

Blog Schmog

2010-05-05T22:26:00.001-07:00

Sometimes i don't want to update my blog. Its not that i don't want others to be able to read about our little lives. I just want to....commit technology suicide. Delete the upkeep of it all. Of course i also realize that it would be silly to discard those conveniences of life that i have come to depend on. I mean, technology is amazing. Really.
...But i still cant help but dream about something different.
I often daydream about living in the middle of a large field surround by a lush green forest. There would be no cell phones, no internet, no TV or movies, no email.... Nothing but me, my family, and the land. I would be free from the expectations, judgements, jealousy, rules, comparisons, ....that weigh on me now. I would wake each morning at 5am to tend to my garden, harvest my food, feed my family. I would be dependent on the earth, not a grocery store. I wouldn't need money, no shopping, no consumer lust. I would love, play with, and teach my children the best i know how. No schools, therapists, or government telling me how to do it (although they can be helpful, but along with that comes expectations....you know). We would read books (because i would have an unlimited library of them), explore nature, bake grainy bread, bask in the sun without getting burned... Of course, this land of mine would be equipped with a large house with plumbing and electricity, sunny 77 degree weather year round, no colds, flu, disease, no violence. And it would have a massive tree full of endless cocoa beans. Its the dreamland that i escape into when i feel like my days are eating away at me. You know, those days where there arent enough hours to get everything done because your to do list is so long. I feel like my to do list is always long. Because there is ALWAYS something to do at my house. There is always a room to clean, always a book i'm dying to read, always dishes to do, a spot to mop up on the floor, a sticky handprint on the wall, a spider that needs to be killed, and most importantly of all, always a child that needs attention, teaching, and love. And it is always in my head to never cut them short of those needs. When i do find a spot for myself (and it may be that 4 minute bathroom break that is so relieving in more than one way), i go to that "land" in my head that i am building which is just waiting for the day when i announce that i am falling off the grid. Anyone want to join me?

Jonah turns 6

2010-04-17T22:46:00.000-07:00

While we were in Utah, Jonah has his 6th birthday. We combined the party with his cousin Cole who has his birthday the same day as Jonahs. Cole had an awesome Batman cake, and I went with a Horton cake for Jonah. The house was packed and loud, but the chaos was fun. There were many kids helping Jonah open presents which he seemed to handle well while sitting on Opas lap (just like he did last year). It was funny to barely see his head peaking through the crowd of kids.
Oh yeah...and Jonah lost his first tooth. Opa yanked it out and Jonah didnt really seem to notice much. The new tooth started popping through the very next morning. And being the stinky mom i am, i forgot to do the whole tooth fairy thing...but Jonah of course knows nothing of the tooth fairy so i guess it really doesnt matter....does it?

2010-04-17T22:45:00.000-07:00

I LOVE when my sister comes to visit. I miss her everyday.....

Utah for Spring Break

2010-04-17T22:38:00.001-07:00

Jonah hiding under Irelands blanket on the way out. What a weirdo. Love it!

Always gotta get a bath picture with the cousins

It snowed the day after we arrived. I wasnt too happy. Neither was Ireland. She wouldnt walk on it.

Lunch time at Aunt Jennies!

The kids know the hot tub as "swimming" They love to swim at Oma and Opas.

Love swinging too!

Cancun!!!!

2010-03-28T22:23:00.000-07:00

First of all, i have to Thank The Tanner Family for making this trip possible for Jake and i! (i sound like a PBS fundraiser...."proceeds made possible by Jonhson and Johnson..."). Dallas and Maury - We owe you big time!!!!! Thank You!!!
And another massive thanks to Jakes dear dear parents who sacrificed their week off to stay with our kids for the whole week so we could leave. They endured vomit, more vomit (ugh!), school drop offs and pick ups (when the vomit was over), figuring out how to feed picky eaters, more vomit (this one was Grannies), messes, stress, love, patience, and hopefully a little fun inbetween! I feel horrible that our kids got sick while we were gone; but so grateful that Jakes parents dealt with it so well. I'd also like to thank Skype for keeping me sane...My heart ached for my children, but I was able to see them for a few minutes each night!
Now.....VIVA MEXICO!

Before the trip....White and tired....

And after several days of sun, relaxation and tan....and some red

Our dessert on our last night there - Creme Brulee with a nice touch from our awesome waiter!

The delicious red snapper i caught while deep sea fishing(well, i just reeled it in). There is a restaurant on shore that will cook up your catch for $10 - veggies, rice and drinks included. It was the best fish i have ever had. One hour previous it was happily swimming in the sea, now its fried and cripsy!

Jacobs fishing skills need some work. He caught a seashell.

Amazingly Beautiful Ocean......

These signs are in all the Taxi Cab buses that shuttle the Resort stayers around. They really do serve beer during the ride....but not while the car is in motion?? Crazy Cancun'ians.

Shopping in Playa Del Carmen, 5th Avenue - totally fun, and a little annoying...

Jakes "stone bowl" lunch. Its full of melted cheese, salsa, cactus leaf, chicken.... . I stuck with a chimichunga.... the best one i have EVER eaten!

One of the many hotel pools at our fine resort...It really was an amazing trip!

KARATE!

2010-03-28T22:12:00.001-07:00

We have enrolled Jonah in a Karate class for kids with special needs. He's almost the youngest in age, but no one really notices. He loves his Karate class and has a great teacher and staff to work with. I'm seriously overcome with joy and pride each time i see Jonah (and the rest of the class) perform their Karate moves. Everyone is so encouraging and excited to be there - thrilled when they do a great job (and even if they dont). So much fun!!!! (and we still need to get him a uniform, he'd love it!)

Our little monkey!

2010-03-28T22:02:00.000-07:00

She loves her Kindergym class. As soon as we get in those doors, she's off swinging, tumbling, and exploring!

I've never been in an ambulance before......

2010-03-14T11:14:00.000-07:00

Until now.
Lets back up a bit. As long as i can remember, i have had these little "speedy heart" episodes. Every once in a while - whether i am exerting myself or not - my heart will start to beat very rapidly for about 10-20 seconds long. It will always go away with a few deep breaths and relaxation. It used to only happen once or twice a year, therefore i never felt alarmed by it or felt the need to see a cardiologist. But as i am getting older and becoming more physically active, it has been occuring a lot more. In the past few weeks, it occurs as often as 3-4 x a week! So, moving along to my story...
So i have been training for a half marathon. And yesterday was my 8 mile run day. I have a cold, and i wasnt really in the mood to run. But i figured i was being a baby and just needed to do it. So i found a nice little trail to run on and began. I was getting tired very quickly, which isnt normal for me but i figured it was due to my little cold. But i persisted, i was determined to get this run in. And about 1 1/2 miles into my run, i had one of my heart episodes. I was aggravated b/c of the inconvenience. I had to stop running and wait until it passed. So i did. As soon as my heart regulated again, i began running. Another mile into it, it happened again! I was totally annoyed, stopped, waited. But this time it didnt go away. I figured i would just run slower and i would be fine. I began running and eventually forgot about it. It happened 2 more times before i realized that i couldnt run anymore. I had gone 5 miles and felt like i had gone 10! I was beyond exhausted and felt like i had destroyed my body. I stopped running and walked slowly until my vision started to go funny.
I wasnt seeing as clearly anymore - it was still bright, but dark at the same time - yellow and black. I knew this is what it must feel like before someone faints. I sat down on the side of the trail, put my head between my knees, and tried to relax and breath this episode out. But it wasnt getting any better. It was getting worse and i knew i was going to faint. I got way out of my comfort zone as asked the next runner (luckily this path is full of runners and bike riders, i was never alone) if she could help me. She asked what i needed and i told her that i felt like i was going to faint and i needed to lay down. So i did, and i closed my eyes. Next thing i knew i was totally relaxed, dreaming about mundane things (i need to finish the laundry, i should run to the store too....boring stuff); i thought i was in my bed simply sleeping.
After what felt like 10 seconds, i came back around and heard lots of people around me talking. I suddenly remember that i was trying to get that damn 8 mile run in and was laying next to the trail instead. My eyes were closed, i remember wanting to keep them closed, not ready to see any light. I felt something wet on my cheek and apoligized to the lady next to me for falling asleep and drooling. She said not to worry and began talking to people, describing to them what had just happened. I heard her say, "she was out for 15 minutes, she vomitted and wet
herself ". !!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It was only then that i realized that i had passed out for 15 whole minutes! I was totally embarassed for losing control of my stomach and bowels and apologized to everyone; i felt like a complete idiot. They of course told me not to apologize. Suddenly the EMT's were asking me tons of questions, which i was happy that i knew the answers to. Name, birthday, address, phone # - i knew them all!! The lady who helped me stayed there the whole time making sure i was ok. I know her name is Nicolette, but i dont even know what she looks like. Im immensly grateful for her help! I shouted out jakes cell phone # and someone called him. The EMT's loaded me up in the ambulance and took me to the ER. I decided to open my eyes when i was in the ambulance only to realize that i was surrouned by good looking EMT's, and i was lying there coverd in twigs, dirt, unshowered, and in soiled clothing!! Aw man! Embarassment settled in and i quickly let it let pass realizing they have dealt with worse and they dont care what i smell like (at least they pretended to not care). But one thing was for sure - i had clean underwear on!!!! Well, it was clean when i started running....
Anyway, at the hospital Jake showed up with all 3 kids. He threw a handful of diapers in the car and rushed over. The kids were happy to see me, but Jonah looked a little worried. I think he knew something was up. But i fought back the tears best i could and kept a smile on my face for him. The doctors ran all kinds of tests and diagnosed me with Wolf Parkinsons White Syndrome ( http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=4785 ) which sounds exactly like what i have experienced my whole life. Since my episodes are more frequent than the average person, it is recommended that i undergo catheter ablation procedure. It is quick, safe, very low risk, and a cure! So i plan to set this up as soon as i can. It was terrifying to sit on the side of that trail knowing i was going to faint and not having a way to call Jake and tell him. To have to rely on complete strangers to get medical help for me while i lay there unconscious. Im grateful that there are so many willing and helping people out there! Im grateful that im home now, safe and well. Im still super tired, but after some r&r, i'll be back to normal. No more running for me. Its time to take up Yoga!

Smiley boogers

2010-03-14T11:01:00.000-07:00

Okay, so i know this is gross, but it is also kind of cool. During one of the many snot'fests going on in my home, i noticed the beanbag had been used as a tissue. This happens all the time and i usually just wipe it away. But this particular booger smoosh looks kind cool so took a picture before i wiped away the random smiley face. Yup - my kids happened to wipe a random disgustingly happy booger smiley face onto the beanbag. They are artists and they dont even know it! Of course, next time i will give them a canvas and paints...

The Dog Bowl

2010-03-14T10:57:00.000-07:00

A couple of months ago i was at my friend Cynthias house with the kiddos, just hanging out. Jonah was going in and outside following her little dogs around. While Cynthia and i were talking (probably about chocolate cake or something) i glanced out the back door to see this:

Jonah was drinking the water out of the dog bowl...just like a dog. It was pretty funny and i didnt stop him right away. I had to get a picture of it first, of course!

Oma and Opas visit!

2010-02-19T15:47:00.000-08:00

cool spiderweb in the yard...are you freaking out paul?

2010-02-19T15:46:00.000-08:00

2010-02-19T15:44:00.000-08:00

Jennies visit

2010-02-19T15:09:00.000-08:00

For Jennies bday present, Forrest sent her to visit me! Well, i made him send her here for her bday present. She came kid'less, and although we had my kids - i pawned them off in the after school club (which they happen to love). We ate, shopped, visited Jennies grandma, and just relaxed. My favorite was when we went to The Container Store (one of our favorite stores) and Jennie layed on the sidewalk to get a good picture of the store. Then things Jennie does for quality photography...... Happy Birthday Doll!

proud messes

2010-02-19T15:08:00.001-08:00

And thats where he gets his grumpy look from

2010-02-02T18:30:00.001-08:00

I thought it would be fun to compare our kids to our baby pics. These are when everyone is around 1 year old. Who looks most like who?? (unfortunately i only have one picture of jake at this age. i dont actually know how old he is in his picture, but it still works.)

Tobin

2010-02-02T18:29:00.002-08:00

Jonah

2010-02-02T18:29:00.001-08:00

Ireland

2010-02-02T18:10:00.000-08:00

Vegas baby!

2010-01-23T09:40:00.000-08:00

The Bailey gals got together for the first time ever as a sisterhood and went on a weekend trip to Las Vegas! It was the most frugal and fun Vegas trip ever - the hotel was only $50 per person for a 3 night stay (thanks to Laura and Anna!) and we lived off of multigrain cheerios, free hotel buffet food, and reeses pieces. We shopped, spa'd, read books, played truth or dare, and had a fabulous dinner at the Grand Luxe....It was a blast. 3 days without kids.....ahhh...... Thank you ladies!!

My favorite part of Christmas

2010-01-10T09:20:00.000-08:00

Christmas.....post overdue....

2010-01-10T08:57:00.000-08:00

Its taken me forever to get into posting on my blog. I'm mentally still on Christmas break i guess. Anyway, we had a great relaxing Christmas in Eureka with Jakes parents and sister Marla. We went to the park, sang Christmas Carols, and even had a birthday cake for Jesus (jonah of course wanted to sing happy birthday and blow out the candle). The "present of the year" award went to Marla with her pink snuggie....which was quite thin, smelled like a factory in china, and made her look like a bottle of pepto bismol. But hey - thats exactly why it won for present of the year! Oodles of fun!

Some more art from Jonah!

2009-12-20T18:06:00.000-08:00

I really like that he drew Brobee, a green Yo Gabba Gabba character all by himself -he's never drawn him before and i have never told to draw Brobee. And look at all those people sitting on the BART Train chairs (all those little circles are the train's wheels!) I love that he is totally enjoying drawing and using specific details to his pictures! He's getting it.....

2009-12-16T21:20:00.000-08:00

Bath time is so much fun....

And i am so cute.....

What will happen if i turn on this faucet.....

Watch me, i'm doing it.........

THAT WAS SO COLD!!!!!

Oh Christmas Tree....

2009-12-16T21:18:00.000-08:00

Its been so long since we have bought a real tree for Christmas! And yes, the boys knew what to do with the tree the second it was in the door. Stick stuff in it - including shoes and Remy....

Jonahs drawing

2009-12-13T07:35:00.000-08:00

Let me start by saying that Jonah has never shown interest in drawing anything more than just a circle or square - and even those werent very good drawings. But he has really come a long way since school has started. For the past week he has shown us he can do so much more. All of the sudden one day he was just casually drawing pictures of faces, then bodies, and his drawings are slowly getting more and more detailed. Its awesome! I was volunteering in his class the other day and almost cried when i saw him draw this picture; all by himself with no one telling him what to do next. He drew the head and body, then said, "i want red blanket" and took the marker and made a blanket over the body. He then started to draw a bed and pillow. He was so proud of himself when he was done and he said, "jonah going night night!" and started flapping his hands with joy. All of the kids in his class were patting him on the back and telling him he did a great job and he loved the praise. I insisted on taking the picture home so i could hang it up. Its definately a keeper! (one funny thing about Jonah drawing his picture is when he was drawing the left side of the body, he used his left hand, when drawing the right side of the body, he used his right hand! So logical....)

Irelands idea of loading the dishwasher....

2009-12-10T20:35:00.000-08:00

Sinterklaas

2009-12-10T20:30:00.000-08:00

We celebrated Sinterklaas last weekend. It was sad to not have my family around, but we were able to Skype during the present opening and the kids seemed to really enjoy the goofy gifts from Uncle Ronald and the family! We're pretty excited to keep up this tradition each year.

It snowed!

2009-12-10T20:28:00.000-08:00

We woke up to snow on Monday morning. Ok, so it isnt lots of snow, but it is white and it was sticking. It never snows in Orinda! So glad it melted a couple of hours later....

Family pictures....so many good ones!

2009-11-23T17:12:00.000-08:00

Photographer: Cory Schoolland
http://coryschoolland.smugmug.com/

Girls weekend!

2009-11-23T17:09:00.000-08:00

I had the awesome opportunity to spend the weekend in Utah with my sisters and mom while jake was home with the kids. It was a much needed break from mommyhood. From shopping all day in Park City, Cadens bithday, breakfast at the sketchy village inn, and of course New Moon (which was PHENOMENAL) it was quite a perfect weekend!

Social Stories

2009-11-05T13:24:00.000-08:00

Social stories are tools/books used to teach social skills and behaviors to kids with autism or other disabilities. I've known about them for a while now, but wasnt sure how to go about making an effective social story for my boys. They both love to look at pictures of themselves and so i knew i had to put their pics in the stories for it to be most effective. I tinkered with the idea of having a special book made for them, but the dollar signs kept adding up as i thought about the concepts i wanted them to learn and what it would cost to put several books together. After doing some minor internet searching, i found this idea on another website and decided to break out the art supplies and make my own social story books with books we have around the house (or cheap paperbacks from the store).

I already owned a couple of good ol' Mercer Mayer books to use, and bought a couple more at borders for $4 each (which is probably on the expensive end!), printed off pics of the family, cut them out, and used a good old glue stick from Jonahs art box to paste them into the story. So far so good. A cheap and easy (but a little time consuming; cut cut, snip snip...) way to provide my kids with a social learning tool.

My boys LOVE to look at these books and see themselves doing different things. Jonah is terrified of the dentist, but maybe after looking at the "Trip to the Dentist" book a couple of times, he will start to get a little more comfortable there. He also has a hard time being social, so i made a book about him and his friend (i chose his cousin Caden as his friend since he is very familiar with him) so he can learn what to do with a friend. Tobin needs to be a little more independent and nicer to his sister, so i put a book together for him called "All by Myself" where little critter does things himself and helps his little sister too.

I highly recommend this for anyone who has a kid (with special needs or not) who needs to learn certain concepts, rules, behaviors..... It's a great parenting tool!

HALLOWEEN!

2009-11-01T22:00:00.000-08:00

Halloween parade at Jonah's school

2009-11-01T21:59:00.000-08:00

This is why the boys love "Uncle" Austin!

2009-11-01T21:57:00.000-08:00

Irelands 1st Birthday!

2009-10-21T14:24:00.000-07:00

Our little lady is 1 !! We celebrated with a cupcake themed birthday party; lasagne dinner, presents, strawberry shortcake cupcakes, chocolate mousse cupcakes, boston cream pie cupcakes, and Irelands very own Strawberry cupcake (which she wouldnt touch). She got all kinds of girly presents...dolls, shopping cart, shape sorter box of chocolates (my favorite - and yes, it was from me) and a pink soccer ball! It was a delicious and fantastic party. We were so excited that Oma and Opa were able to fly out and celebrate it with us. And thanks for the adorable tutu Aunt Jennie!

First BART Train ride!

2009-10-21T14:20:00.000-07:00

Pumpkin Patch with Oma and Opa

2009-10-21T14:17:00.000-07:00

Tea Time with Oma!

2009-10-21T14:14:00.000-07:00

I found a cute little place in Lafayette called The French Bakery that has Tea Time. Mom and i went with the little birthday girl for High Tea (or whatever its called). It was very cute and the food was tasty.

Hawkeye family!

2009-10-21T14:12:00.000-07:00

Hi-5!

2009-10-13T19:02:00.000-07:00

Whenever Jonah gets in the car when i pick him up after school, the first thing he does (after buckling his seat belt) is give Ireland a hi-5. He says, "Hi-5 Ireland" and she holds up her little fat hand and happily waits for him to slap it. Its totally cute.

Tobin's singing.....its the best!

2009-10-06T15:22:00.000-07:00

2009-10-06T15:21:00.000-07:00

What a handsome man!

A bad day fixed by the best redhead ever!

2009-10-01T21:20:00.000-07:00

Today was a rough day for me. Just annoyed about the usual stuff i get annoyed with... So yeah, i was mopey all day up to dinner time. During dinner I was singing along with the songs on the kids playlist on itunes (which is often playing during dinner since tobin really enjoys it – he seems to wander less and sit more with music on) and when I was done dramatically singing a song of I Love Trash with Oscar the Grouch, Jonah looked at me with a huge smile and happy eyes and said, “you did a good job mommy” ! ! ! I have never heard him say that before. This isn’t something he has heard someone else say, (which is usually what his language consists of...echolalia). He did this one all on his own. I was so proud of his little 6 word sentence that it brought a tear to my eye and reminded me that no matter how annoyed I get at times, there is nothing that makes me happier than my kids (and chocolate cake! Hehe). During bath time tonight, Jonah practiced writing his name with shaving cream (something his teacher recommended) on the glass shower door. He seemed to really like this new writing method (and i loved the bathroom smelling like a clean fresh man). He can spell out and write his name….of course sometimes its only legible to him!
(wow, these pictures make the bath water look really gross....didnt think my kids were that dirty)

Walkin lady!

2009-09-28T06:33:00.000-07:00

Super Franks!

2009-09-18T12:47:00.000-07:00

There is a place....with large leather chairs....chicken wraps, cookies, ice cream, fries...they bring your food to your table....your kids run around and make a mess....and you dont have to clean it up. And thats not all, there's so much to do there! No, it isnt heaven - its Super Franks! Lame name, wonderful place.

Preschool for Tobin

2009-09-18T12:40:00.000-07:00

That little man loves his Lightening McQueen backpack! But he is mildly hesitant about school each morning when i drop him off. Of course, when he is at school he has to work and do what the teachers say. And for those of you who know Tobin, you know that he is uber stubborn and wants everything his way so its a difficult lesson for him to learn. So this educational transition is definately great for him and he will eventually lose that morning hesitation....i hope! Man, he is a cute kid, eh?

2009-09-18T12:39:00.000-07:00

My sis in law, Leah found this pic online. I love it!

She's walking!!!

2009-09-12T22:26:00.000-07:00

We finally got it on video! Ireland took her first official steps yesterday. She will be 11 months old in 8 days! I cant believe she's already walking! (and yes, i pushed jonah out of the way in the video....you would have done the same - no damage done!)

Tobin turns 3 !!

2009-09-12T22:01:00.000-07:00

I cant believe our little stinker is 3! We celebrated with a little dance party with a few friends (becuase we only have a few friends here). Despite the electric slide and the macarena no one really danced. Tobin loves to sing and dance, but even he was more interested in staring at the spinning disco ball light then getting his boogie on. No matter, it was still a great party. Tobin doesnt like cake or ice cream so i made him a rice crispy cake with fruit snacks - two things he loves. We have really reduced his fruit snack intake (he hasnt had any in about a month) and once he saw all those fruit snacks on the cake, he shoved fistfulls in his mouth. ITs the first birthday he has ever shown interest in his cake!
Also.....Tobin starts preschool on monday! He was accepted into a ABA therapy style special ed preschool in our school district where he will get 25 hours a week of school, speech and Occ Therapy! We are so lucky to be able to get these services for him. He has made amazing improvements in the past 6 weeks with the state provided in home therapy program that he has been on and we know he will continue to improve with so much 1:1 schooling. One particular therapist, Kasey has been a LIFESAVER and has figured our little stubborn kid out and taught him to talk! She has become one of my dearest friends and i will forever be grateful for her!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TOBIN!! WE LOVE YOU MORE THAN YOU KNOW!!

The Hypnotic disco ball light...... I somehow manage to get all these cool pics of Tobin dropping things mid-air. Seriously, scroll through past blog posts and you will find a few.

With some prompting he opened most of his presents before just wanting to run away and play.

This is wonderful Kasey and Jonah (Jonah loves her even though it doesnt look like it in this pic.)

The Loot!

Our awesome friends here in the East Bay!

Goodbye old friend

2009-08-30T13:15:00.001-07:00

Today, the cars 4 charity group came and hauled away the Honda. We have had this car our whole marriage and Jakes brother Zack had it before us. The car holds oodles of memories for the family. It has been hanging out in the driveway with 275K miles on it since we moved here desperately needing a new engine that costs more than the car is worth. It was good to us for many years, but it is kind of nice to have some driveway space back. Guess this will be the new spot for Jonah to learn to ride his bike! We are now a one car family....i should by a chauffeur hat!

Naked morning

2009-08-30T13:12:00.000-07:00

Tobin decided to shed his diaper and go naked as he participated in his morning eat breakfast/watch baby einstein routine. Look at his tight non-cottage cheesy butt! This kid is pure muscle. He must take after me....hehehe.

Jonahs first day of school

2009-08-30T13:02:00.000-07:00

Jonah started school on Wednesday! He's an official Kindergartener at Wagner Ranch Elementary!

I need your feedback ladies!!!!!!

2009-08-22T12:53:00.000-07:00

Alright ladies who read my blog (yes, all of you - the more the merrier). I need you to reply to this post via the comment section or through my email)

I will be in Utah the weekend of the opening of the New Moon movie.

I am planning on renting a movie theater at Hollywood Connection in West Valley on Saturday November 21st at 10am for all us ladies to see New Moon. The cost of the tickets is $6 per person. We will be the only ones in the whole theatre when it opens (they are opening earlier just for us) so we can make as much noise as we want and we will have complete control over the snack bar (of course you still have to pay for your own snacks...or sneak them in your big trendy purses....but i didnt tell you that).

I need to know how many of you will be able to/are interested in making it. I know it is still 3 months away but that means plenty of time to plan, get babysitters, and commit! I would like to get all info for it within the next few weeks so i can finalize the reservation so please get back to me.

You are more than welcome to bring other family, friends, and people i dont know. If you bring a man, they have to be able to handle all the estrogen and Edward/Jacob wooing without any snide comments.....basically we dont want any men there! And please dont bring your children (unless you have a wee baby who is still sucking from your breast and needs to be with you).

I am very excited about this and hope you are too. Pass the word along and get back to me!

Thanks,
Ember

Weekend in Eureka

2009-08-18T09:56:00.000-07:00

It was a blast visiting grannie and grandpa this weekend.... we spent an afternoon at the beach, made spaghetti pictures, did some hanging out at the park, watched tobin love listening to grannie play the piano, the girls got pedi's, jake and i did a 3 mile run together (for thr first time in our marraige) and i realized that my baby girl looks more like her aunts than me. schmeh. But it was a great weekend (despite the traffic we had to endure to get there). We were so happy to be able to see allison and kids and were thrilled that aunt anna stopped by for a surprise weekend visit too!

Oma and Opas visit

2009-08-18T09:48:00.001-07:00

We were lucky to have Oma and Opa spend a weekend with us recently. Jonah was thrilled to see his grandparents again and it was a great visit. My favorite part (besides the 4 hour shopping spree mom and i went on) was the visit to Muir woods. It was beautiful and the kids had a blast walking through this awesome Forest. Tobin just ran and ran and ran. Jonahs loved that he could actually stand in some of the trees and climb in some of the tree trunks. It was like his own little treehouse. Awesome!

Peek -a -boo

2009-07-31T22:57:00.000-07:00

2009-07-31T22:53:00.000-07:00

This girl loves to watch her brothers take a bath. She makes a turbo crawl over to the edge of the tub and pulls herself up to peek at the boys. Its so cute to watch.

2009-07-31T22:51:00.000-07:00

There's something totally adorable about seeing a little kid all cozy in mom and dads bed sleeping (of course only when it isnt in the middle of the night.) Poor Toby has an ear infection. He disappeared yesterday and this is where i found him. Asleep. He never does this kind of stuff unless he's really not feeling well.

Helping feed little sister...she loved it!

2009-07-31T22:48:00.000-07:00

He was giving her a kiss, not wiping his nose on her forehead..... i think.

Aunt Jennie, Caden, and Coles visit...

2009-07-31T22:31:00.000-07:00

...swimming at Grandma Derose's apartment pool, making cupcake pops (bakerella's recipe) and being totally sad that they tastes like bland mush, being so disappointed that we made brownie ball bites instead (so delicious), spending a day at Six Flags and being thrilled that Tobin only threw one fit the whole time, watching Caden hold Jonahs hand while waiting to ride the 4 wheelers train, sewing a pin cushion that looks like a cupcake and never wanting to touch a sewing machine again, jumping on aunt embers bed, discovering that i like hummus, talking without children (or husbands) until 2am, and not relaxing for a second...... It was awesome!

Nasty baby food

2009-07-15T15:33:00.000-07:00

Standing Ireland

2009-07-13T22:44:00.000-07:00

She doesnt crawl, she doesnt scoot much either. But she loves to bounce on her knees (with this weird blowup cylinder toy thing - some of the best $6 i've ever spent!) and pull herself to stand whenever she can . Ireland is almost 9 months old and is really turning into a silly little girl.