The Carter Clan

Some "fun"ny things...

2011-04-11T22:17:00.006-04:00

We have had a first recently. Even though all the kids have been to a wedding (most when they were only a few months old), they got to go and see a wedding and understand it this time. We got to celebrate with Alicia and Pete as they got married in March. The couple looked beautiful and we had fun enjoying the day with them.

Peter and Alicia

The couple was arriving in a horse drawn carriage so the kids had fun watching for them.

Pictures courtesy of Jackson

Taken by Lizzie

Here are some funny quotes I have been recording :).

We sponsor a girl in Haiti and as we were preparing to write her letters we must have been talking about a babysitter and Hannah said, "The girl in Haiti can babysit us because she is 12!"
Lizzie had a weekend where 2 of her friends were over one right after the other and I heard Lizzie say, "Sorry Alyssa, she's my other friend."
Jackson had a friend over to play and dinner and in the midst of conversation his friend said "Oh My G_ _ and Jackson said, "You said a bad word!"
Hannah likes to say, "That is horrible!"
Hannah told me, "Can you please tell Lizzie to relax!!!"
Jackson asked me if Uncle Tony (Alicia's dad) is nocturnal because he works at night.

Winter

2011-02-20T15:56:00.008-05:00

I love winter, the snow, the cold, snuggling, everything, even shoveling. So I was disappointed to hear this winter would have below normal snow fall and pleasantly surprised to have several snow days and lots of snow around for several weeks. I do have to admit I loved the 70 degree day last week, but I am also glad it is only February and more snow is in the forecast for the next few weeks.

We have had a fun time playing and sledding in the snow the past month. We also built a snowman and igloo which was used as a fort to eat m & m's in that day.

Ice Storm caused our power to be out for 4 hours.

Snowman

M&M's igloo

Lizzie and her friend Bella sledding at Bella's house.

Kelly, ahhhhhh!

Joe and Lizzie also go to enjoy a night of daddy daughter fun at the "Daddy Daughter Dance" on Friday. I had left the camera at church so I will have to get the pictures from Joe's phone.

Some cute quotes:

Hannah told me that 4 year olds don't take naps so she only has to take them for a little bit longer.

Lizzie asked me to buy her deodorant because her arm pits stink and then proceeded to ask everyone to smell her underarm with her new deodorant.

Jackson was chosen to be a bully buster for his class at school which meant he got a cool shirt and performed in a little skit with the Ghostbusters theme music for bully busters. So the other night he wore his shirt for PJs, and then proceeded to hold Hannah against the corner because he was mad at her. I gently reminded him he had his bully buster shirt on and yet he was being a bully. Ahhh, kids!

Long Time...

2011-01-19T20:51:00.009-05:00

Oh my!! I have not posted since September, wow!!

Well, we have been having a blast here! September was wonderful with school starting and I am enjoying my quiet afternoons with my "baby" wow!! It is so fun having just her with me while we do errands and go to city campus (anything to avoid a nap of course). I love when we drop Jackson off for afternoon kindergarten and suggest we go food shopping and she says that is great or "you've got it mom" as long as I don't mention the nap!! Jackson loves school and is doing well with his work. Lizzie is in 2nd grade and her BFF is still Alyssa. She is doing well and learning the difficult rule of slowing down while doing school work.

At the end of September, we made our way on the 18 hour trip, straight thru, to Disney!! It was a blast and the kids loved it. I really was prepared for the worst, a meltdown to beat all meltdowns, a fit in the car, something, but it never happened. It was a peaceful ride through the night and we arrived in good shape. It was a wonderful trip and we all had a good time meeting all of the characters and having fun as a family!

Halloween Party

Pirate, Buzz Lightyear

Hannah's Favorite Character

Jackson had a crush I think.

Notice who is the happiest!!

Dad :)

Awwww...

November and December flew by with Holidays and trips to NJ. Joe and I had fun celebrating our 11 year Anniversary! I love that the kids always refer to us getting married in different situations like: Hannah says, "Mom, did daddy get you those earrings when you got marry?" and "Daddy had hair when you got married, ha, ha!" It makes me smile for them to think about our life before them.

December was full of holiday parties at school, our daily nativity story from the ornament we got from Grandmom, rearranging the nativity scene every day before nap (again procrastinating before the nap), and a snow storm while in NJ Christmas Weekend.

Joe got a huge surprise, an iPad!!

We started 2011 with some sickness. Hannah was hit the hardest and seemed she had some ailment every other week. She always had some energy though. I am glad to have the kids back on schedule and then this week we had a delay that turned into a day off and who knows what the next few weeks hold with back to back snow expected. But I do love the SNOW!!

So...I will TRY TRY TRY to post more regularly in the future!! One of the many goals set before me.

JOE

2010-09-04T21:55:00.004-04:00

This is a tribute to my wonderful husband, Joe!! I could not be the mom I am and the woman I am with out the support he gives and love he pours out. He is a great father and I am in love with him!! I could not do this life without him by my side!! (He feels slighted that it always seems I am a single mom in these posts and he is not mentioned...so there!)

Summer Ends...

2010-09-04T21:28:00.008-04:00

We had a fun, hot, busy summer and excitedly began the fall and school this week. Lizzie started 2nd Grade this year on August 30th and Jackson started Kindergarten on September 2nd. Lizzie was sad, but is now glad to be back with her friends, even with her fresh stitches in her chin from Sunday night. She even saved a seat for her brother on Thursday for his first bus ride home from school. He looked so little next to the window, but had a good time on the short 2 minute ride. Here are some pictures from the first days.
Hannah was a little sad that first lonely afternoon with no big sis or big bro, but very quickly picked up on the positives of having me all to her self and being able to pick what she wanted to listen to, and read what she wanted to, and have whatever seat in the cart she wanted at the grocery store. I am really thankful for this special time with the two of us and can't wait!

We also have been helping Mom-mom and Pop-pop with renovations on the new house. We went down the other weekend to work and it was fun! It was neat to see each of us "adult" children take a task and complete it throughout the day. Joe pulled out the old master bath toilet, sink and cabinet and installed all new pieces. Brian tore out all the old carpet upstairs and pulled out every nail in the floor. Chris used a hammer and broke up all the flagstone in the entry way. Liz painted all the molding from brown to white. I worked on getting all of the nails out of all the molding and prepared it to paint. The kids enjoyed helping me and would occasionally come down to pull a few nails or dump out the ones already pulled.

Yesterday, the kids had off for Labor Day Weekend and I scheduled follow-up dentist appointments to have cavities filled, tooth pulled, and visit to pediatrician for stitches to be removed. Jackson did great with his cavity at 9:00. Thankfully Mrs. Carter met me to help as I took Lizzie to get her stitches out and then to go back to have her tooth pulled. It was a little stressful, but was fine in the end. She was tired though and we had a good time having a "family movie night" watching Camp Rock 2 on Friday.Saturday was relaxing, we decided to wash the work van and our car and it was a beautiful day!
Then we came in to cheer on the Irish who won!! Joe made ribs all day and enjoyed them with Lizzie at half time!!
Cute Quotes:
Jackson was still numb after he had his cavity filled and I asked if he was ok because he was being really quiet. He said, "I can't talk because my talk is all numb!"

Lizzie, the drama queen, after getting hurt and before her stitches said, "Why does this always happen to me?"

Horses

2010-08-17T22:04:00.004-04:00

So for Lizzie's Birthday this year, we decided to give her 2 horseback riding lessons. She was asking about them for a while and the kid loves horses. She reminds me of myself at her age. I would dream about riding up and down 9th Avenue on my own beautiful horse and of buying the house next door to have enough space for my horse to live.

Anyway, Joe and I gave them to her this year and we finally were able to connect with someone we know who gives lessons. Jackson and Hannah came along to watch.

Waiting for the lesson at the barn.

The first lesson is an hour so that she can learn about caring for the horse and getting it ready to ride. Lizzie was very timid at first, since the only horse she had seen up close was a pony at Aunt Dori's school fair.

As she began her lesson, she got comfortable and had fun learning about the different brushes, cleaning the horses hooves, and putting on the saddle and bridle to prepare for the ride.

The horse's name was Chester, Chesie for short, and here he was talking to Lizzie as she was brushing him.

Jackson and Hannah were great sports and endured the hour well.

Looking for mischief I believe.

She was taught about moving up and down with the horse and had VERY tired legs the next day. Poor kid, her helmet was too big and kept falling over her eyes.

What a good brother!

All done and posing for shot.

It was all a fun time and we are being reminded to schedule another lesson soon.

Some fun extras:
Hannah has some new words that she likes to say in her very high pitched voice (I think my sister-in-law Liz said something about remembering when Hannah is talking that it is not an emergency every time!):

she likes to say "probably" a lot now, for example: Mommy: Hannah what do you want to eat for lunch? Hannah: Prob-a-bly...Peanut Butter and Jelly.

she also refers to the sandbox as "the sand in box" and says it fast so it all runs together.

Lizzie lost both her front teeth within one week of each other. The first came out the day of a sleepover and she insisted the the toothfairy would know she was at Alyssa's and would still come to collect the tooth...nice!

Jackson likes to write me notes and his latest is "i lof u" he is my sweet boy :).

We are going to Disney!!

2010-08-15T23:04:00.002-04:00

We are planning our trip for September 25th thru October 2nd. The kids are so excited and we can't wait. We will be driving and we are taking Mom-Mom and Pop-Pop Reif with us.

We also have been having fun getting the Reifs situated in their new homes. Chris and Liz bought 15 9th Ave and Mom and Dad bought a house over near Devon Ave in Haddon Heights. We went down on Thursday when they settled and now are waiting to have a painting party. Lots of fun.

Pictures to come...

Week in NJ full of Surprises!!

2010-07-12T00:14:00.005-04:00

We try to go to New Jersey for a week every summer to swim and spend time with Mom-mom and Pop-pop. We went down this last week and had so much fun. Since Chris and Liz are all moved into 15 9th Avenue, we got to hang out with them too. We were able to visit the Please Touch Museum in Philadelphia, swim, visit Ocean City, NJ's Boardwalk, see Mom-mom and Pop-pop's soon to be new home, and surprise Mom-mom for her 60th Birthday (2 times)!

The kids had a great time visiting their cousins and it was a relaxing time for all of us despite the many lies that were being told to keep the Saturday Birthday party a surprise. Pop-pop even had the great idea to stage a pre-surprise party, surprise party, so that mom would think that was what we were all working on that week. She said she knew something was up, but that the first party was it. VERY ELABORATE!! Here are some fun pictures from our visit!! Camera didn't arrive until Thursday with Joe, so unfortunately, no pics from early in the week. PS Joe sadly had to wait until Thursday to come down and decided to cut his finger and get 6 stitches Thursday at work. Poor guy!!

Kohr Brothers-and everyone finished every last bite!

She was surprised...
Might have shed a tear...
Mom said the neatest thing was having such a great
cross-section of everyone in her life in one place: work, friends, family.
The Mother and Mother-in-Law of the Birthday Girl!
(Affectionately known as Gran and Grammy)

Lots of kids!
Lizzie and her newest BFF Erin!

Funny Quotes:
Jackson had a friend sleep over and when we went to take him home the next morning, we pulled up to his house and Jackson said, "Jordan, your house is stuck to your neighbor's just like mine!"

Hannah was sitting with me on the couch and she touched my leg and said, "Mom, your legs are really prickly and are hurting me. You need to get new legs!"

Happy Days!!

2010-06-01T22:03:00.011-04:00

We had a fun for Birthdays and are getting ready to slow down to summertime pace! Here are the latest pics from the crew.

We started off with Hannah's Birthday, April 1st (3 years old)

Happy Hannah

Went on to Lizzie's day on April 22nd (she turned 7) with a surprise visit from Mom-Mom and Pop-Pop after school. Here is her "friends party" with her buddy Alyssa.

We had an Ariel, Under the Sea, theme and played Crab Soccer, Sharks and Minnows, Find the Treasures, and of course enjoyed cake and presents.

School Friends :)

Cake!!

We did a week of Rice and Beans as a challenge from church about how the rest of the world lives. We had fun with Life Group and yes, Hannah is eating beans!!

Buddies!

Lauren has a crush on Jackson :)

Jackson's End of School Performance was stellar.

AWANA closing ceremonies: Hannah was a Puggle and at one point grabbed the mic to sing.

Getting her end of the year surprises.

Jackson was a Cubbie.

Lizzie was a 2nd Year Sparkie.

Joe's Birthday/Father's Day Gift, a smoker for his ribs!!

The Reif Birthday Party, Cousin Aiden and Lizzie

Lizzie, Hannah, Jackson and Brayden

Brayden and Jackson (only 3 mos apart)

Hanny

Lizzie Girl

More Cake!!

Snuggling in the morning!

Jackson wanted to go mini-golfing for his Birthday, May 29th (he turned 5). It was funnn!
Hannah taking a shot.

Little Man lining up.

Lizzie getting ready.

Daddy and Jaxy, golfing buddies

The Crew

This says it all...

Cutie!!

Proud Papa and Handsome Man, Jackson.

We went to eat and headed to Hershey Park for some fun in the afternoon!

Enjoying Dippin Dots Ice Cream at the Park.

Jackson only wanted a skateboard for his birthday, so this is his gift. Unfortunatly, shortly after this picture, he went out to try it and feel on his stomach knocking the wind out of him. He has not tried it again :(

Some funny quotes:

Jackson was talking about his birthday and when he was a little baby and he said, "So when I came out feet first, you looked in my diaper and saw I was a boy?"

Hannah told me today she wanted Peanut Butter and Jelly, with out the Peanut Butter :).

Here we go...

2010-04-07T22:15:00.006-04:00

So things are settling down a little. I am now 4 weeks into the new job and really seeing God work. It is awesome to see Him show up and the way he is reaching families through the kids. Amazing!! Here are some photos of the new campus.

Lots to set up and put together

The Pier (K-4th Grade) set up every week.

Sunrise Pointe (one of our nurseries)One of our Treasure Cove rooms (3-5s)
Our "suite" as it has been called (all of Early Childhood is here and is permanent so we could make it LCBCish) Nursery-5, pre-k)Treasure Cove Large Group Space

We had a wonderful few months with a TON of snow!! I LOVED IT!! And as I sit here in early April after 2 90 degree days, I miss it!!

We had 2 incredible storms right on top of each other and got 2-3 feet of snow. AWESOME. Here are some pics from our storm.

Sledding with Pop-Pop

It was hard to have fun in this much snow.

Cute Crew!!

New Year, New Things

2010-01-30T21:52:00.003-05:00

Here it is the end of January. I am posting to let you know that we are in the midst of some fun changes. During one of our Christmas Eve services, while I was working, I was presented with the opportunity to take a new position overseeing all of kidMinistry at one of LCBC's new campuses. After much thought and prayer as a family, we decided to follow God's lead and take the job. This means the entire family will now serve and attend at the new campus. We are excited to see how God is going to work through us here. It is a huge undertaking, but so far so good. We have our first gathering tomorrow evening to get volunteers and then to launch on MARCH 7th!! One bonus with this job is I will have Saturdays off starting in March, woo-hoo, and I get a "real" office, not just a cubicle.

We just finished all our sickness. Lizzie had strep throat and Hannah had a stomach bug. Thankfully, it hit all at once, I didn't get it, and it only lasted 2 days.

Christmas was relaxing (our goal was met) and we had fun hanging out with friends and family over the break. We made about 36 loaves of Pepperoni Bread, 100s of butter creams, and enjoyed the snow. (I miss it now)

We attended Jackson's Kindergarten Information night and got all the stuff to register him in March. I can't believe it.

Well, I should go to bed...big day tomorrow! Pics will come soon.

Getting Ready for Christmas

2009-12-20T22:06:00.004-05:00

We have enjoyed this month very much. Every year it gets more fun as the kids get excited for all that goes on during December. We started off the month going down to New Jersey for Thanksgiving and getting our Christmas tree at the farm down there. It was a last minute decision and we were lucky to have Aunt Liz, Uncle Chris, Ben and Ryan join us with Mom-mom and Pop-pop. It was a fun trip. Jackson, Ben and Lizzie were BFFs the whole time. So cute!!

Pop-pop and Hannah

Of course someone suggested walkie talkies which we almost lost in the forest.

Ben and Lizzie, awww...

Buddies

Poor Ben was disinterested in pictures!!

We enjoyed an end of fall snow storm this past weekend. We ended up with about 10 inches I think and the kids loved it outside, although when asked if they wanted to go out today, they said, "No, it is too cold." It was hard for them to walk and not sticky enough for a snowman, etc. They had a good time just playing and going for a quick walk.

Some of the items from "the lists" this year:
Lizzie: a REAL elf, drum set, Nintendo DS
Jackson: Mario Kart, and something that changes every day
Hannah: (consistent every time we ask) A Barbie with a red dress and a dolly that has a bottle :)

It is so neat to hear them talk about Christmas and as parents we are trying to help them realize why we celebrate Christmas and that it is all about Jesus. Hannah was funny when she asked me when I was going to have Baby Jesus...oh Hannah!! She also continues to link Santa coming and snow and thankfully she got it. I was worried she was going to be very disappointed when there was no snow. She did think Santa was coming on Saturday night though.

Jackson has been doing so great in school and is my little love bug. He is so sweet and was so excited to bring home a gift for us for Christmas!!

Lizzie is anxiously awaiting the wearing of her new Christmas dress. She just got finished telling me the "list" of boys that like her and rolling her eyes, uggg!! She was laying in bed the other morning just waking up and I seriously looked at her and couldn't believe how old she looked and teared up, not ready for all of this!!

Joe thankfully has been busy with work and is still enjoying working with his brother-in-law, David. They seriously could be a reality show in TLC, they are hilarious together!

We hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas and hope to have some Christmas Outfit Pictures soon!!

10 Years!!

2009-11-23T22:40:00.003-05:00

Delinquent again!! Our accomplishment this month was our Anniversary trip. Joe and I took a cruise to the Western Caribbean for our 10 year Anniversary. We had such a great time spending time together as husband and wife, not mommy and daddy. (We did miss these roles throughout though).

We decided after our last cruise 7 years ago, that we were going to do another for our 10 year with Jenn and Eric Smedberg again; and so we DID!!

The kids were well taken care of thanks to wonderful relatives and they all had a great time.

This was our ship (the biggest in the world until last week)

First Formal Night

Eric, Jenn, Me, Joe in Jamaica

My favorite place, Cozumel, Mexico, we rented scooters (my new "happy place")

Month of September

2009-10-16T22:32:00.009-04:00

Here we are in mid-October and just now posting Back to School Pics. Ugg...let me start with right before school and a fun, but too short, visit with my cousin from Pittsburgh. Shelley and her family came through PA on their way back from visiting in NJ and offered to stop and visit. We met in Lebanon with Ashley and Aiden and played at a playground there. Here is the crew!!

Lizzie started school at the end of August. ALL Day First Grade. Here she is waiting for the bus.

Jackson and Hannah are enjoying the perks of being the only two during school days and Jackson has adapted to being the "oldest" and enjoys helping Hannah now! I have to say I feel like a free woman with only 2 kids. Here they are at the park.After the playground that day we walked down to the creek and there were a ton of ducks eating breakfast I guess, the kids could have watched them all day.

Jackson started school at the end of September. Here are Hannah and Jackson his first day.

Mommy and Buddy Boy outside his school.

Hannah and her "friend" cousin Emma.

Not a lot to comment on this month. Soccer started and is now just about done. Poor Jackson got rained out last week and this week, so he is done now. Lizzie still has 2 left. I coached her team, which has been an adventure. They both have been enjoying it. I am playing again, but have only made one game so far.

We are gearing up to leave in 8 short days for our 10 year Anniversary trip on a 7 day cruise. Woo-hoo!! Joe and I can't wait to get some time to relax and enjoy being together as a husband and wife. Of course it wouldn't be possible without the many family members involved in watching the kiddos while we are away!

Some funny quotes:
Hannah is always asking, "Mommy, Daddy is your cousin, right?" she can't say husband very well and gets it confused.

Lizzie when asked what she wants to be when she grows up. "I want to be a Veterinarian, or work at Barnes and Noble." Aunt Dori will be proud!

Jackson likes to tell me about his school day and he tries really hard to remember his friends' names and make new ones each time he goes. He says, "I asked Randy if he would be my friend." I can just picture that cute conversation.

Growing up...

2009-08-30T21:55:00.007-04:00

I am going to quote my cousin, Shelley, from her recent post:
"Perspective--I watched the "big kids" getting off the school bus this afternoon and it struck me that my kids will never love being with me as much as they do right now, at this stage in their lives. Once they grow older, they won't think I'm the coolest person in the world anymore, won't fall asleep on my shoulder every day, won't want me to hold them constantly, and will be totally content to entertain themselves. Even though parenting a young child is ridiculously hard, I appreciate all of these precious moments when nothing makes them happier than to just be with me."

So as I am thinking about my oldest going to school ALL DAY tomorrow, getting a little filled up, that just reminds me that those extra moments I have with each of my kids are worth every second. Here are some pics:

Lizzie's First Day of New Beginnings Nursery School,
October 2005 (sniff, sniff)

Who could forget our unforgettable camping trip the hottest, humidest, week of the summer. We discovered fishing...

Here's what we mostly caught

At the park:

my techy
Lizzie lost a tooth and learned how to ride a 2 wheeler all in the same week

While visiting NJ, Aunt Dori took us all to the Please Touch Museum

Cousin Ben and Hannah

We all got to visit with our good friends from NJ (this picture is minus the Jackson 3 kids)

Working hard, or hardly working?

2009-08-30T21:06:00.005-04:00

August has been a busy one for us here at the Carter home. I have been busy with work as we just revealed our new building and kidMinistry area "kidVenture Island." Joe and the kids were real troopers as I worked almost double my normal hours the week before. Here are some cool pics of opening weekend. I can't wait for Phase 2 when the new 2 year old area "Oyster Bay" will be opened.

This is the check-in area as you enter kidVenture Island

This is the slide Lizzie can go down to her room, Lava Beach

This is Lizzie's room, Lava Beach, for 1st and 2nd Graders.

This is where Lizzie goes for 2nd service, called the Wheelhouse. It is a place for kids whose parents are "serving 1 worshiping 1" that is a little more laid back for them since they have been through their programming already.

Jackson's and Hannah's areas are part of Phase 2, so you'll see them in 6-8 weeks. Woo-hoo!! We also have more pics on the facebook page.

Some Video!!

2009-07-12T21:16:00.008-04:00

We were fortunate to receive a hand-me-down flip video camera and have been practicing with it the last few weeks. Here are some fun clips we've captured.

We were talking about Grady the other night at dinner and we mentioned that he was almost 5, wow it's hard to believe, and Jackson all of a sudden started to get that wiggly chin right before he cries and filled all up. He got upset because Grady wasn't going to be 4 like him anymore. They are like best buds when they are together it is so cute. Here is the dance off they had. Take note of a few things: Lizzie's unique dancing in the background and the music that is playing is a fun flashback to my High School days. Too bad our kids inherited our dancing skills!!

Here are some pics from the 4th of the kids.

Can you feel the happiness here? Lizzie is arguing of course!!

Lizzie and Daisy (Aimee and David's Dog)Best Buds, Jackson and Grady

Hershey Park Clips:
Jackson again taking the easy going rides, Hannah sticking her tongue through the chain while waiting in line, and Lizzie, Hannah and Joe enjoying the "big" scrambler with their arms up!!

After bathtime the other night...

First corn on the cob
Lizzie trying to make her tooth loser, watch out Mom-Mom!!

CO, HP, and more...

2009-06-30T21:50:00.009-04:00

Ok, so I am posting twice in one month, I know--amazing!! We have had a wonderful month, me especially, starting with my long weekend away in Colorado with my Messiah College friends. I realized we have known each other for 14 years this August. Wow!! It was so much fun and very relaxing. I LOVE Colorado and its no humidity.

Helen Hunt Falls (Cindy, Beth, Me, Mary Elizabeth)

Garden of the Gods (Me, Cindy, Beth, Mary E.)

Mary E and Cindy, it was VERY Cold!!

Beth was the hostess with the mostest and had everything planned out, yet it was such a relaxed schedule. We had a 6 hour day with a Mary Kay Rep and I now wear a little makeup. (Joe loves it!!) We hiked (some rough trails) drove to the top of Pikes Peak and visited some fun hang out spots and met some of Beth's friends. It was just so relaxing and we had such a good time reconnecting, which is always so easy.

BTW Joe and I "celebrated" our 14 year dating anniversary on June 4th. Actually, neither of us remembered it until later. That is amazing to me.

Here is an action shot of Lizzie on the new slip 'n slide, a favorite!

Hannah and her first "play date" working together to let the water out.

We are able to go over and enjoy Hershey Park a ton again this year with our passes from Christmas, thank you Carters!! Hannah especially is obsessed. She asks 5398 times a day if 1. "Daddy give you the passes?" (after I got home from CO and we were set to go over to HP and I realized that Joe still had the passes, she is scared since we ended up not being able to go) 2."I go on frog hopper?" every time.

Here she is on her favorite ride. She is fearless we are learning.

Another favorite, the truck convoy. Lizzie is a serious driver!
Jackson on the train. Just his speed!
Hannah and me on the train!

Finally, a new addition to the family. Baby Ryan was born on the 28th and is very healthy and going home tomorrow. Chris, Liz and Ben are very excited.

Quotes: Hannah, "Mommy, we go to Hershey Park later? Later Mommy?" Obviously, you can figure out my answer when she asks.

Lizzie informed me in the car today that she has all her dreams in her "noggin" and she has the bad ones in the bad box and the good ones in the good box. She also told me there are a lot of rules for her dreams. She then went on to tell me all the people in the good box. "Corbin Bleu, Nick Jonas, friends from school, you, daddy..." in the bad box two things "alligators and cheetahs!"

Sorrryyy!!

2009-06-02T21:42:00.007-04:00

I am very sorry I have not kept up with this. No excuses. Here are some updates:
Let's see starting back in April we were busy with Birthdays. Lizzie FINALLY had her day after all the complaining about attention on Hannah. She had fun celebrating many times as we visited many family members. Man, I can't believe she is 6 already!! Her big accomplishment is jumping rope. Apparently, she is exceptionally good at this as I was told by her PE teacher on the side. She is very proud of it and has now moved to jumping the hula hoop we purchased. I can say, when she wants to do something, she works and works to do it the best she can and then some.

Joe started umping baseball again and has been busy with that when he makes his games. He has been so busy with work (thank the LORD) that he has even had to call out of umping. He has been able to squeeze in a few days of golf here and there though :0).

May came and went with a Mother's Day Tea, more umping and oh did I mention I started my 3rd season of soccer as goalie for the Just for Kixx team! I love it, every Sunday for 8 weeks in the evening. Jackson was last but not least with his birthday and loved it all. He is excited to be 4 because it means preschool and soccer in the fall (although it took a while to explain it wouldn't happen as soon as he turned 4). Now if we could be as excited about getting out of pull-ups!! We also had to trade in our leased Town and Country and decided to purchase a 1999 Dodge Durango. It is great and still seats 7. Joe likes it better than the van, and I am beginning to, also. Hannah is constantly singing "Happy Birthday to you" with all of the celebrating we did, so hopefully that will slow down too.

Birthday Girls at their Carter Family Party

Mom-Mom playing the pebble game (look at Hannah cheating and opening her eyes!)
AWANA graduation-Jackson Cubbies year 1
Lizzie getting her Sparks award, notice the heals
Aiden and Lizzie at the Reif Birthday Party
Hannah and Daddy relaxing on the swing.
Opening gifts at the Reifs
Cousin Ben playing with the new toys

June is here and maybe life will slow down a bit, I hope. Lizzie is done school on the 9th. We have already made 2 trips to Hershey Park with our passes. We were able to get some new furniture for our deck and have been enjoying eating outside and debating what is growing in the field behind the house (we have decided it is corn)!

I am preparing for a trip to Colorado this week to visit with my good friends from Messiah College, Mary Elizabeth, Beth, and Cindy! I can't believe it has been over 10 years since we met Freshman year. I will be away for 5 days while Joe is a full time stay at home Mom. He'll do great and already has stuff planned!!

I still love my job and I am excited as we move forward with more plans for the 2 year old area at church. Lots of change!!

Life is good and I am enjoying taking notes on the little conversations I hear in the car or while I am making lunches. It is really cool to see how the kids interact with each other now that they are a little older (sniff, sniff)!

New Birthday Shades

Some good ones:
Jackson and Hannah were doing errands with me one day and this is what I heard in the back seat--Hannah, "I love you one." Jackson, "I love you two." Hannah, "I love you three." Jackson, "I love you four." and so on and Hannah would not count right and Jackson would help her know what to say next. (of course this had all followed a screaming battle over a toy in the back a few minutes before, but that is what makes life so fun)

We buzzed Jackson's hair and Joe said one night after rubbing his head, "Oh, I messed up your hair." Jackson replied, "No, it stays like that!"

After teaching the kids the "real names" of their parts, Hannah now enjoys saying the names at the most opportune times, like in Giant or at dinner, of course it is not whispered either and doesn't help when the other two laugh at her.

Easter

2009-04-13T17:05:00.004-04:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful Easter. We had fun and got to see Mom-mom and Pop-pop when they came out for a visit Saturday night into Sunday.

We painted Easter eggs on Saturday. Hannah was in charge of painting on the sparkles and Jackson and Lizzie did the dipping and deciding on colors.

We got up early on Sunday and put on our Easter outfits (thanks to Aunt Dori and Gran) and went out to see that the Easter Bunny had visited our house and hid lots of eggs. We actually got a pretty good picture of all 3 kids together (one out of about 15 that were taken). I love the new camera for just that reason!!

PS, I had a wonderful Birthday weekend in NJ, by myself. I went down on Friday afternoon, walked our old route with Irv and slept in a little on Saturday. We then shopped from 9-7 on Saturday stopping at Houlihans for lunch. It was one of my best birthdays ever!! Thank you to everyone who made it fun!!

Outside

2009-04-13T16:45:00.003-04:00

We have been enjoying some on and off warm weather and getting to the park. We go to the "alligator park" which is actually the Fun Fort in E-town. There are all kinds of things to do there and the kids love to climb. We have also had fun on the swing set out back. We are all trying to guess what is going to be planted in the field behind us this year. So far, no hints of anything.

All of the kids like to ride bikes in the driveway and Lizzie has tried to ride without training wheels (I think she needs to be a little taller). They also love to write messages to daddy in the driveway and trace each other with chalk. Joe said when he comes home it is funny to see all of the chalk bodies in the driveway, it looks like a crime scene!

Joe has enjoyed perfecting his rib recipe on Saturdays while I am at work and has found that he has another person in the house that enjoys them. Apparently, Lizzie ate a whole 1/2 a rack this weekend. Her appetite has tripled in the past month or so and she eats enough for all three kids.

Quotes:
I was at church one Sunday turning on all the lights in the room and Jackson was helping. We were in one of the 2 year old rooms that Jackson used to be in and he said, "Mom, this is the house I used to live in when I peed in my pants!"

We went to a parenting conference a few weeks ago (really good about Graced Based Parenting) and a lot of it was about natural consequences and not being embarrassed of the choices your kids make, like wanting to wear dress-up in public). Anyway, one of the points that tied into to the stuff they taught was that sex-ed doesn't have to start when they are pre-teens, it can be as simple as calling "the parts" by their real names. SOOO, we tried it at bathtime the other night. Jackson usually calls his a "dooker" and Lizzie and Hannah have a "bottom" so when we announced the correct names Jackson said, "Lizzie, you have a pajamia!! Ha-Ha!!"

Hannah likes to reverse some compound words lately like "shakemilk." It is funny to hear some of her creations. She is saying full sentences and can tell us exactly what she wants or is thinking, crazy!!

Lizzie hasn't had any creative quotes lately, but is enjoying reading and school (she doesn't like that she has 6 days off for Easter Break) and has started adding and learning about fractions in Kindergarten.

Hannah Turns 2!!

2009-04-13T16:39:00.004-04:00

We celebrated Hannah's Birthday and she had fun getting lots of phone calls and even expected calls to be for her several days after her birthday. We went to Hoss's for her Birthday and they sang to her there. She got some fun toys and got to eat some yummy cake.

Lizzie likes to pretend she is Aunt Liz, "Do I have anything in my teeth?"

Chasing the snow!!

2009-04-13T16:11:00.004-04:00

So as many of you know...I LOVE SNOW. This winter proved to be less than exciting with the ice and a few inches and that is it. One nor'easter was predicted at the last minute and of course NJ was going to get hit worse than Central PA so we made a last minute run to Haddon Heights to enjoy some snow. I took the chance that Lizzie would have off school and thankfully, at about 11:30, they decided to cancel only PM Kindergarten, phew!! We had fun sledding with Auntie Irv and Calista and even Aunt Liz and Ben made an appearance and played in the snow with us.

The Gang Sledding

Cousin Ben

Hannah with her tongue out

Jackson in the tree

Lizzie in the tree

February

2009-02-25T12:18:00.009-05:00

I can't believe it is almost March already. Just to get it off my chest, I am really mad that we did NOT have any good snow this winter!! The kids couldn't even enjoy the one good snow of 3-4 inches because it iced on top and poor Hannah wasn't able to walk in it. Anyway, here are some pictures of what we have been up to this past month.

Lizzie has been accessorizing she did this during naptime one day.

She used some of her Christmas money to purchase a Barbie that came with theses, lovely!!

Jackson and Lizzie

We got piggies in Hannah's hair for the first time.

She loves her doodle pad and to "trace hand" on it.

Jackson

Hat day as we went out on one of the warmer days this month.

One of the snow days

silly Hannah

the kids

another snow day (I think it was the ice day)

Lizzie all bundled up.

Visiting Mom-mom and Pop-pop's

The golf crew:
Joe, Jonathan, David, Derek

Joe teeing off

I got the flu and was really sick last week. My parents came and got me and brought me down to NJ since Joe was away on his golf trip in NC. It was great because I could not have taken care of the kids on Thursday and Friday, I had no energy.

I also got a "promotion" this month. I am now going to be overseeing only the 2 year olds and developing curriculum and programming for them for the fall when we move into our new area. It is very exciting and there is a lot of "top secret" planning going on for a big reveal in the fall.

Hannah is talking like crazy. Some of her phrases: "Jackson did it!" If you ask her if she pooped or if she did something. "Pants fall down." and she then pulls them up." We all love High School Musical and have been listening to the HSM3 soundtrack quite a lot lately. Hannah likes the first song she calls "sixteen" and asks for it as soon as we get in the car. She is a clown and always looking to make us laugh at dinner or when we are all hanging out.

Jackson's sweet spirit is so cute and he offered to help me while I was sick and is very excited to start preschool in the fall. Lately, he has begun to ask for things for his May birthday. We'll have to start a list.

Lizzie is doing well in school and trying to keep her "boy who is a friend" a secret from dad. Connor has sent some love notes home and I had to tell Lizzie she is not allowed to ask boys to get her flowers as she told me she had let Connor know he had to bring some in for her tomorrow. Connor also wrote a paragraph about Lizzie for Valentine's Day. All the kids had to work with the aide at school to describe someone or something they love using adjectives. Lizzie wrote about Lamie and most kids wrote about Mom or Dad or their pets, Connor wrote about Lizzie. funny...

Until next time...

Photo Shoot

2009-01-17T11:02:00.002-05:00

I am still working with my new camera to get good, focused pictures. Here is the kids' first photo shoot with me in their Christmas outfits (thank you Mom-Mom and Aunt Dori)!!

yes, that is slobber

Quotes: After sending Lizzie to timeout one day, she was crying and I came in to talk to her after her time was up and she said, "I feel like you are pushing me out of the family!" (drama queen!!)

Hannah has been talking up a storm, full sentences and everything. "Thank you Mama, Thank you Dada" for everything. If she accomplishes something, she says "yes, high five!" And my favorite, "Jackson did it!" (right)

Jackson was crying the other day as we pulled away from dropping Lizzie off at Kindergarten and I asked him what was wrong. He said, "Lizzie forgot to give me a kiss."

Many Christmases

2008-12-30T15:34:00.009-05:00

We had several Christmases with family this year. It was so nice because the kids got to relax and enjoy their toys in between and they really enjoyed opening their gifts and didn't get warn out from opening like they have in years past.

First, we went to New Jersey on the 19th and had Christmas with my family on Saturday the 20th. We got to exchange gifts with the Reif kiddos, Ben and Aiden, and got some fun stuff from Grammy, Mom-mom, and Pop-pop (including a new Wii). Then, we went to Gran Irvin's for some fun presents over there and decorated their tree. It was such a nice relaxing day. We had such a fun time and were able to just sit back and enjoy the day.

We went to church on Christmas Eve and came back to our house with the Carter family to exchange gifts with them. Joe gave me my gift early...a new digital camera, a real one, not a point and shoot. I was so excited!! I used it all night and the next day. I think I took over 200 pictures.

Joe got a customized Phillies Jersey

Christmas Eve...

Christmas day we stayed at home and opened gifts and played Wii. We went over to the Snyder's in the afternoon for sandwiches and dessert. It was such a peaceful day!!

Hannah only wanted to eat M&Ms

and play in her new "big girl seat"

Lizzie and Jackson opening their "big" gifts

Lizzie playing with Pixos (not recommended to anyone!!)

Hannah made it into time-out at some point Christmas Day!!

At the Snyder's

20 loaves...

2008-12-30T15:22:00.005-05:00

We decided to make Pepperoni Bread again this year for the holidays. We made 20 LOAVES!! Everyone helped and after much hand washing and patience, we had 20 yummy loaves of bread.

Hannah liked to try rolling.

She also liked to "paint" the egg on the bread.

Jackson tried rolling but didn't like it so much.

He took over the painting while Lizzie rolled.

It snowed that day too, so when Daddy got home we all went out to make a snowman and do a little sledding.

the boys

Hannah before sledding

getting ready to sled

after sledding

Christmas Tree Shopping

2008-12-30T15:05:00.005-05:00

This year was a little different getting our tree. Every year since I can remember we have gone to a tree farm and cut down a tree. We attempted that this year, but were very unsuccessful and decided to get a pre-cut tree being sold in the local grocery store's parking lot. We quickly realized why we like cutting our own tree. The tree hadn't "fallen" yet and had some unruly branches once it did. It ended up looking fine after lights and ornaments, but we will be cutting one down again next year!!

At the first tree farm...

Decorating the tree...

Being silly...

November...

2008-12-02T20:56:00.004-05:00

We have been quite busy here in the Carter household. As mentioned we went away for our Anniversary on the 13th, Lizzie finished up soccer and got her first trophy.

Lizzie's entire team...

We also had Lizzie's first official Parent Teacher Conference this month. She is doing great and Joe got brownie points with her teacher because he had Notre Dame gear on and apparently Mrs. Dolan is a big ND fan...anyway, her teacher said she is doing well and is ready to read and just keep doing what we are doing at home. She said Lizzie is very compassionate and polite (whew!!) and a joy to have in the class (or something like that). One down, 12 more to go...geesh!!

We went to NJ for Thanksgiving, minus our very sick Joe who caught the flu at 4am the Tuesday before. We missed him very much. We had some yummy hors d'oeuvres and dinner at Mom-mom Irvin's and then went out at 5:00am on Friday for our Black Friday Shopping. Irv got very sick and missed her first shopping day since we started :( we missed her, too!!

Now we are going into December, Joe had his 32nd birthday yesterday, and we are gearing up for Christmas. I have started wrapping some gifts already, I know I can't believe it myself, and are excited for Hannah to understand a little more about what this time of year is all about.

Quotes:
Hannah is still being a stinker about staying in bed, but we have found that she stays in more now that she can "read" before she falls asleep for bedtime or nap. So she collects about 10 or more books and looks at them and some how cuddles down in between them and falls asleep. I went in to check on her at naptime the other day and she was reading the Bible (the one from the Shelfari Bookshelf) and was pointing to some picture of a man saying "Jesus" and singing the Bible song from church, precious!!

All of the kids are very interested in the Bible since Meemom and Poppie bought a new one for them and luckily we have another copy, but anyway, Jackson also was reading before bed and I told him to lay down and go to sleep and he said, "Mom, I'm reading the Bible!!" What the heck do you say to that??

Happy Anniversary Number 9!!

2008-12-02T20:26:00.007-05:00

Joe and I got to go away to the Outer Banks, NC for our 9 year Anniversary, what a restful time we had. It is so great to get away and just concentrate on us for a change. You don't realize how much revolves around the kids until you are away from them and THEIR schedules and needs. WOW!! It was really great to sleep in, ride bikes, go for a car ride, climb the sand dunes, sit in the hot tube...refreshing!! (We did miss the kids a lot and were glad to see them on Sunday!!) Here are some pictures...Thank you again Aunt Marge and Uncle Ron!!

and i quote...

2008-11-06T19:31:00.001-05:00

Tonight as Lizzie prayed...
"...and God and Jesus, you guys are the most specialest in Elizabethtown, and I love you both so much, and Jesus you are very special..."

catch up...

2008-11-04T22:23:00.007-05:00

I know I haven't posted in a while...let see, we have been pretty busy and here are some thoughts and photos.

Here is a picture of the biggest part of our busyness:
Hannah Grace...she is hitting the terrible 2s a little early, only just turning 19 months. She had decided to climb out of her crib, so we made her crib into a toddler bed, she again wouldn't stay in it, so we tried MANY things and just recently stumbled upon letting her go to sleep when she is tired. This goes against all of my motherly instincts, but it has worked the last 2 nights. She went to bed at 10:00 last night after playing in her room (pulling out all of the tiniest toys she could find) and then laid down in bed and went to sleep. Tonight, after no nap, she finally fell asleep at about 8:30--not too bad!!

Then, of course, we had the World Series..I searched for Phillies Gear for the kids all day before the series started and finally found them shirts at Kohl's and it was on sale because it was with the spring/summer stuff woo-hoo!! Hannah had an outfit from Lizzie so she was set.

We got a pumpkin to carve the Saturday before Halloween and roasted the seeds to eat. It was lots of fun!!
Then came the big surprise...Joe got invited to go to the Phillies Game 5 of the World Series with George from NJ. George called him and casually asked him what he was doing on Monday night and asked if he wanted to go to the "Park" to watch the game. Joe was dumbfounded and asked if he was joking. George had won the tickets at work and thought of Joe to go with him. So Joe went on Monday, got rained on and went again on Wednesday for game 5 1/2 when they WON!!! (he still has not gotten his real voice back) It was so cool and a once in a lifetime thing!!

So that is what has been going on!! We voted today and went to see HSM3 (kind of cheesy, but the kids liked it) and now I am getting ready for bed. Joe and I are very much looking forward to our Anniversary Getaway in less than 2 weeks. I can't wait to have fun with just Joe.

I do have a cute quote from Lizzie...
Lizzie came home from Kindergarten yesterday with an "I Voted" sticker on her shirt. I knew she was doing this at school, we had gotten a note about it, but I hadn't talked to her about the election and really forgot about it until she came home. I asked her how she voted and who she voted for. She said, "Mom, it is a secret, I can't tell you." and continued to tell me about the process and her buddy who helped her. After only a few minutes, she told me, "I can't tell you who I voted for, it is a secret, but I can tell you I voted for the brown one, but I won't tell you his name." Later I found out she didn't know his name, but we did get some good conversation out of it all and some chuckles with friends and family. We think it goes along with her crush on Corban Bleu from High School Musical. She was very interested to know who we voted for today and why, and we got to talk to her about it so that was cool.

Hannah has started saying "sorry" "buddy" (for Jackson) "jacks" and when you call her she says "what?" she's so funny!!

Jackson continues to be our sensitive, sweety and we are not allowed to laugh "at him" for any reason or he gets his feelings hurt. He is trying many things on his own and we often have to turn away as his tounge is sticking out and he is trying so hard to do someting without help. He's so cute!!

Visit to Hershey Park After Dark

2008-10-28T16:15:00.003-04:00

Sunday we went over to Hershey Park to go on some rides and trick or treat. They had renamed all the rides to be "Halloweenish" and had a whole area to walk through with stops to get candy. It was fun and the kids enjoyed being dressed up.

a hero among us

2008-10-03T11:58:00.004-04:00

Joe and Dave were up in Jim Thorpe (near the Poconos) doing a solar install and came upon an accident. They ran up to the mini-van to help out. There was a 4 year old and a man trapped in the car that was about to roll over. You can see how many people had to keep the van from rolling while they got the girl and man out. The little girl was found all the way in the back of the van and the man's legs were caught under the dashboard. Joe helped get the girl out and then held the van. He is the cute one on the right in the green shirt. My Hero!! You can read the article to get some more details.

lizzie's first poem

2008-09-22T22:58:00.006-04:00

For the first week or two of school, Lizzie had "color days" and "color creatures" for every color. She had to wear certain colors and they had a cute poem they learned. At the end of the unit, they had to fill in there own things for the poem they had learned. This was the original poem:

Orange is a Carrot
Orange is a carrot.
Yellow is a pear.
Purple is a plum.
And brown is a bear.

Green is the grass.
And blue is the sky.
Black is the witch's hat.
And red is cherry pie!

Here is her own poem, you may have to enlarge this to read it.

Here is the translation:

Orange is a pumpkin.
Yellow is a sun.
Purple is a grapes. (notice the placement of the "R")
And Brown is a dog.

Green is the shirt.
And blue is the wave.
Black is the cat.
And red is apple.

As a former kindergarten teacher, notice the name nicely written on the line with upper and lower case letters, the words are sounded out and actually can be guessed. I was so proud to see this!!

patience 101

2008-09-22T22:33:00.003-04:00

Happy Fall to everyone...I am so excited we are nearing the snow season, although I must say that this was a pleasant summer overall!!

We are in full swing of school now. Thankfully, our daily routine has become smoother and I am now able to stay much more organized and feel back to my old self. I also attribute that to my new co-worker who is quickly picking up the job of Division Leader and lessening my stress greatly. Lizzie is loving school and is sleeping wonderfully these days. Jackson misses her when she goes (even though he sleeps through most of it) and Hannah just likes being in the car and playing her new game of taking her shoes off whenever she can.

So to get to the title of this post, I am really having a tough time with my patience as my two oldest seem to not completely understand what it means to be potty trained. This weekend we had too many "accidents" and I am wondering if Joe and I need to do something else or what?? I actually got called by the school nurse today to bring new clothes for Lizzie after she had been there for only 15 minutes; she did have a reason, apparently, Jacob or someone was in the bathroom "a really long time" and she couldn't hold it so I was not quite as mad, but what the heck. She wasn't even embarrassed or upset. It is usually a problem of not wanting to stop what they are doing to take the time to go, but twice this weekend (on the same day) Jackson just stood in the living room and peed--hello!! Any help on this would be great! Obviously, our number one lesson with Lizzie is to include going to the bathroom right before school. They both still wear pull-ups at night and Jackson at nap and that is ok from what I hear especially because Lizzie is such a deep sleeper. Well, I am just putting this out there.

Here are some pictures from a visit to our local zoo the other week.

The funny thing is she was trying to look at the wolves on the ground, to her right...

Happy Hannah!

Quotes: We were eating dinner after our landlord had just finished cutting the lawn and he was placing the sprinkler out to water it. Lizzie asked, "Why is Mr. Jason putting on the sprinkler?" To which we said he was trying to help the grass grow. She then said, "Why does he want the grass to grow if he just cut it?"

I had just got done dropping Lizzie off and Jackson did his daily sadness of "I miss Lizzie" as soon as she got out of the car--don't worry I cried over this the first few days. We got home and he asked, "When are we going to get Lizzie?" I explained, "After nap." He woke up from nap and repeated this again a few times and then asked, "Can I wake up Hannah?" I am sure you know my answer, but it is so cute that he so wanted a playmate and misses his sisters when they are not around.

Hannah is just having fun repeating what everyone is saying. I love this age when they are such sponges!! She now says excuse me after she burps or "toots" and she loves to ask for things now like a book "Moon" for "Good Night Moon" or juice or shoe. She's fun.

something to look forward to...

2008-09-11T16:34:00.001-04:00

Today I confirmed plans for Joe and I to get away for our Anniversary (number 9 wow). We are going to head down to the Outer Banks, just Joe and me, and relax and not work. I can't wait. The Carters are going to watch the kids and we are leaving Thursday after Joe gets home and coming home Sunday. Yay!!

a couple quotes

2008-09-09T20:59:00.002-04:00

Lizzie was pretty quiet after the first day of school. I don't know if it was from the day, or that she was the last off the bus (since been changed to now the first off). Anyway, Joe took her out to get a movie that night and got her talking a little more about her day. She told him, "there are no cute boys, there is a fattish one, but I didn't make fun of him."

The other day in the car, Jackson was looking at one of those picture books that label everything and he found a rainbow. I asked him what a rainbow meant and, after holding Lizzie off from shouting out the answer, Jackson said it is a promise to not rain again. I added it won't rain again like it did with Noah. Lizzie added, "It is a promise and God always keeps his promises!!" She is learning at church, how fun!!

Last trip to Hershey Park

2008-09-08T20:20:00.003-04:00

Hershey is now closed during the week, so during the last week it was open, on Labor Day, we headed over to enjoy the "Boardwalk" for some fun.

Hannah and Lizzie on the slides.

Jackson relaxing and warming up.

Hannah on the slide, Lizzie right behind her.

The Boardwalk waterpark (we were at the Sand Castle, this is a pic of the the bigger area)

Hannah.

Lizzie.

just having fun

2008-09-08T20:16:00.003-04:00

Joe got some cute pictures of them goofing off one day. Lots of fun!!

New Cousin

2008-09-08T20:10:00.003-04:00

We came home from the shore to welcome our newest little cousin, Aiden. Ashley and Brian are settling in to being first time parents. It is hard to think back to when we had only Lizzie. What fun to enjoy a new, growing family. Here are some pictures from the hospital.

Jackson and Baby Aiden

Big Cousin, Liz and Aiden.

Hannah and Pop-pop having fun.

OCNJ

2008-09-08T19:54:00.005-04:00

We are up and running again--finally!! I was able to piece together pictures to replace some of my 6000+ pics on iPhoto. I ended up with 4700something so I am happy. There are no years without pictures, so that is good!!

In the last few weeks, we have been very busy. This first post is from our trip to Ocean City August 18-22. Dave and Aimee were nice enough to let us come and stay with them for the week. We had a fun time and the cousins had a blast playing together and hanging out. We went to a nice quiet beach at the one end of the island and visited Atlantic City and The Rainforest Cafe one night. We even got to visit Aunt Dori down the other end of the island one day. She had yummy gingerbread cookies we finished off for her. It was a nice, relaxing week.

Lizzie enjoying the sand.

Jackson didn't like the water so much, but loved digging.

Hannah enjoyed the goldfish with the special shore ingredient, sand!!

Jackson and Daddy at The Rainforest Cafe

Mommy and Hannah at The Cafe

Daddy and Lizzie

Jackson and Hannah racing their fire truck!!

update coming soon...

2008-08-26T23:59:00.002-04:00

my external hard drive has been ruined and i am in the process of trying to gather all the info that was on it. we will lose quite a bit, but i am happy with the amount i can "stir up." i promise i will update as soon as i have set up the new hard drive. until then...

simple things

2008-08-10T22:14:00.002-04:00

Today we had our normal Sunday routine and came home for a very relaxing afternoon. We got to go out tonight and have a late dinner out on the back deck and enjoy the cool August weather.

Joe and I love to sit back and listen to Lizzie and Jackson interact now that they talk to each other so much. Even Hannah is really beginning to play with them and certainly holds her own when they try to take over. It is so neat to watch their relationships forming that will carry them through the rest of their lives.

Quote of the Day: Jackson had just pooped in the potty and told me that it was going to go to its home and then as he flushed the toilet he said, "Hear them, Mommy? Hear the poopy and pee talking to their friends, they are going home."

construction zone

2008-08-06T20:47:00.013-04:00

Today we braved the dirt and noise and went out front to play on our bikes and with chalk. We have been staying out back or going to the park lately because our road has gotten all torn up again. They are taking out the dangerous "hump" that no one can see over when you pull out of our driveway or more importantly out of the street the intersects with it. Aside from them hitting a water line the other day and having water gushing out for 2 hours, and then having the water off again and our hose hooked up so the people across the street could have water once it was back on, there have been no major problems :) . Here are some pictures.

Hannah wants to roller skate, too.

Jackson loves his "line drawer" (3 pieces of chalk that draw with a roller)

The house across the street on the left used to be even with the street.

It is hard to see, but there is now a "hill" on our driveway.

Miss Liz (soon to be kindergartener)

Buddy Boy

Happy to get a picture today.

Him too.

How can I get into trouble now??

In other news, I got Lizzie's Kindergarten assignment and information today (sniff, sniff). I really can't believe it!! She is assigned to PM, like I had requested, at Rheems, right near our house, and she got the "strict teacher," Mrs. Dolan. We will wait and see how it goes. I think it will be good for Lizzie to have a teacher like that. She has been teaching 21 years and apparently does wonderful things with the kids and for the parents. She starts August 28th for one day and then has off Friday and Monday for Labor Day. Open House for the parents is the 13th and we have a conference with Mrs. Dolan from 2-3 on the 25th so Lizzie can meet her and see her room. We'll see...

Quote of the day: Lizzie pulled me over to the window tonight and showed me the moon. "Mom isn't it so beautiful?" She came out and showed Daddy and Jackson and then said, "I am going to pray and thank Jesus for the beautiful moon." She prayed right then as she sat looking out the window at the moon--to be like a child in our Faith!!

end of july

2008-07-31T21:35:00.011-04:00

So today is the last day of July and I have not updated this since the 14th so here goes.

Our first major event...the caterpillar emerged from its chrysalis and became a beautiful butterfly. It was cool to see the END. We missed it breaking out, but caught number 2's coming out a few days later. We released this one the same day. It was cool.
Some pictures from our several trips to Hershey Park.

Notice Lizzie is in the "adult" middle seat. She always gets off and says "That was wicked awesome, it makes my bottom feel funny."

The Truck Convoy, we tried Hannah on it.

The kids with my favorite candy...yum!!

The boys being silly!!

Hannah watching the kids.

Dad, Jackson, and Lizzie waiting for the ride to start.

Hannah is always keeping us on our toes. She gets into everything and is very busy. On this particular day, I started praying at about 8 am for some patience. I had dealt with poop all over the carpet, diaper rash from all the poop, kids arguing, baths, and then the blue marker in the ear and all over the hands and this was all before 12. I had to run to church and when we got home we had a nice summer rain shower, so I sent the kids outside with umbrellas and no shoes to play in the rain out back (for their own safety). Of course they were soaked when they came in which is fine, until you play with the toilet paper. Hannah came in and 5 minutes later, I found her in the bathroom, with a Q-tip sticking out of each ear and toilet paper all pulled out, in the toilet and all over her. Nice!!!

Hannah also began learning how to feed herself yogurt. She loves this!!

Quote of the day: Hannah has decided that any animal with 4 legs is "Laney" so she calls them all this after Aunt Irvy's dog.

amazing creation

2008-07-14T22:32:00.006-04:00

We took "cat" to the humane league the other weekend and when I called later in the week, they said it was a boy and that he was healthy and they put him up for adoption--yay!! I was glad to know he was ok and hopefully someone will take him home soon.

Later that week, our friend Carla, brought us over two "catties."We are officially now hosting 2 caterpillars one of which is transforming as I write into a Monarch Butterfly. Now, I was a little skeptical about the whole thing. The kids kept seeing that commercial where you can buy the supplies to do this, but I knew Carla could help us create our own version.

Apparently, the butterflies lay their eggs on Milkweed and the caterpillars hatch and eat the plant leaves. After several weeks of eating and lots of poop, they form a J-shape and 2 days later the chrysalis. Now this was AMAZING to watch!! We caught the very end of it. It all takes place in 10 minutes so it is hard to catch. The caterpillar actually sheds its skin to reveal the chrysalis underneath and it turns green and it actually looks like gold seam holds it together at the top. It was incredible! We are now waiting for the other one to change. It takes 2 weeks for it to become a butterfly so we will see. Aside from the chore of getting new leaves every other day, it is very easy to do. We have now been obsessed with looking for milkweed wherever we go. We can't wait to find more to grow and watch change. What a cool thing for the kids to see.

This picture does not do this justice...

The little caterpillar is getting bigger, it was fun to see the real version of The Hungry Little Caterpillar"

Quotes of the day:
First: Jackson came upstairs from playing crying that Lizzie had hit him. Joe called Lizzie up and she calmly explained that, "Jackson was being mean and I accidentally hit him." (um...right)

Second: As Joe was disciplining Lizzie and having a conversation with her before sending her to her room for hitting, Jackson had come in and laid on our bed with his hands behind his head. As Joe came in to our room, Jackson said, "Good job yelling at Lizzie, Dad." (remember he is still in the lounge position) Joe promptly sent Jackson to his room for instigating and for the comment.

emotional roller coaster

2008-07-14T22:16:00.002-04:00

As you know, I had been covering my friend, Tanya's job for 8 weeks while she tried a long term sub position at the end of last school year. She felt, after the time spent subbing, that God was leading her to stay at LCBC and continue on with her job. We became fast friends when I joined the team 2 years ago and I tried my best not to show my favor with her staying as she went through her subbing. I was, to say the least, very relieved that she was staying.

Then, about 2 weeks ago, I was visiting her as Joe was helping with some plumbing stuff and she finally got the nerve up to tell me that she had gotten a job for this school year and was finished at LCBC on August 15th. I did my best to listen to how God had opened another door after she thought he had closed all doors in that direction. She wondered why this had fallen into her lap when she was so set on staying at church. I stayed strong and finally broke down at the end. She is such a good friend and co-worker and I feel like I am losing a lot. Selfish really, but she told me she is even struggling with it as she finishes up her job. I am really kind of mad at God for this one. Not sure what he has planned, I know it must be good, but it's really hard to accept.

So, I have cried my tears and been stressed trying to decide if I can even take her position, which was offered, but it is going to be full-time soon and I just can't with the kids, as much as I want to. Just be praying that I can be a good "helper" to whoever steps in and that I won't have a chip on my shoulder about it all. Pray for Tanya too as she is struggling, and has been torn, these last several months about this decision.

july 4th

2008-07-14T21:56:00.009-04:00

We spent the 4th with Joe's family at a friend's house who was nice enough to let us use their pool and outside kitchen for the day. We had a lot of fun hanging out and thanks to the family photographer, Aimee, we have some pics to share.

Joe's belly flop that left him in pain, duh!! (I love you honey, thanks for the entertainment!)

Buddha Baby!!

Joe's Grandmom surprised us all with a cannon ball.

Jackson and Mee-Mom

Jackson and Poppie play "Action Figures."

cat

2008-07-03T23:10:00.005-04:00

We have a new outside pet named Stormy, Kitty, Cloudy depending on who is calling her. She showed up at the barn next to us and looked very scared and thin. We decided to give her a little of our left over steak and ended up giving her a lot of leftovers. The poor thing was starving. We then realized this was bad news. She was ours. She laid on our deck for hours meowing and resting. She came back in the morning and I fed her leftover eggs. She hung around all day and I hated to touch her, but I did to try and remove a tick I noticed on her ear. The kids have been warned not to even let her touch them.

She is so sad. She was some one's pet because she is declawed, but I thinks she is sick because she meows all the time and has patches of hair missing and is soooo thin. I called the humane league and they said I could bring her in. I will on Saturday, but first we actually got her some cat food and have been feeding her regularly. She is so skittish and we have a neighbor outdoor cat that is a big bully and has been scaring her away. I even tried to shoo him off today and he actually batted me with his paw and cut my leg, meany!!

Here she is :( She has beautiful yellow/green eyes!!
Quote of the day: Totally unrelated to the post...Jackson said in his mean voice as Lizzie was annoying him, "Lizzie you're a ricer!!" Lizzie asks, "What's a ricer?" Jackson replies, "You eat rice." Hummm.

vacation in Haddon Heights

2008-07-03T22:50:00.011-04:00

Come to Haddon Heights, NJ for the ultimate vacation. Enjoy an all inclusive visit, you can bask in the beautiful pool, make s'mores by the fire, take in some nearby entertainment and enjoy visitors from all over the area.

We were in NJ for a week without Daddy (we missed him VERY much, but he was home working his tail off, and golfing one day). We all enjoyed the time with Mom-Mom, Pop-Pop, Aunt Irvy and of course Laney!!

Tuesday some of my friends from the area came over with their kids for some water fun and lunch. Between the 4 of us girls there were 10 kids. What a change from our childless small group days, huh?!?! We all had fun and it is so neat to see how the kids click as if no time has passed.
We went to see the movie Wall-e one day. What a great movie, I recommend it to you even for a date night. It was really good!! We had Grammy and Aunt Margie over for lunch one day. Aunt Margie brought over a yummy orange cake we enjoyed for dinner.
Gran, Aunt Dori, and Mo came over another night for a BBQ and Aunt Dori brought a bag-o-crafts for us to do with the kids, one of which was designing their own t-shirts with fabric markers. Lots of fun!!Our last day we enjoyed a visit with Chris, Liz and Benny, Ben, Ben and in the evening we made s'mores. Yummm!!What a great week!!

alligator park

2008-07-03T22:30:00.011-04:00

We visited the "Alligator Park" on a beautiful day and the kids had fun in the "shade part" they call it. It is all the old fashion rides we had growing up. Like the large metal thing that spins around and if you don't hang on you fall off. My cousin Tim cracked his head open on one of these when we visited him in Ft. Collins Colorado one year. My stomach still turns when my kids play on this thing.
We had some fun learning about tether ball and all I could think of was Napoleon Dynamite.
The wooden part has no shade and by afternoon even the wood is hot and the metal slides could probably give you a nice burn. We decided to stay in the shade and enjoy the stream.

I did ask Lizzie if she need to go potty after this one, she assured me "NO!"

BTW this is the outfit Lizzie likes to wear with her nice wedge Hello Kitty sandles to which Joe said she belongs at the Deptford Mall. (Old Skool Deptford for my friends who frequent there)

Quote of the Summer: We have had fun enjoying Hershey Park, the Hershey Zoo, the park that now everyday I am beginning to hear "Mom, are we going to do something fun today? Can we go to the zoo or the water rides? What, we are going to Giant that is boring!" Any ideas how to make a trip to Giant more fun?!

hershey park, again

2008-07-03T22:20:00.006-04:00

We went to Hershey Park again a few weeks ago and had fun just playing at the Boardwalk, which is all water rides. We had fun in the wave pool, until some kid pooped (lovely), and they evacuated that area. The kids love the Sandcastle and could stay there all day. There is so much chlorine that you can almost feel your nose hairs burning when you are in there. It is fun to watch even Hannah go down the little slide and play in the shallow water. Here are a few pictures of the three of them in the stroller.
We came home to this sight which Joe, who is afraid of heights, bravely fixed. It was very funny!! Good job, honey!!

follow up

2008-06-20T22:41:00.002-04:00

So to go along with my earlier post today, Joe and I went on a date. Lizzie has also been bugging us to go on a date (go out to eat or the movies) really so that she can go visit anyone else. Every other Friday, opposite our Life Group meeting nights, each couple takes turns babysitting all the kids so the others can go out. We used it tonight and went to Hershey Park and enjoyed the big kid rides. We only made it onto 3 rides, but they were good!! We had fun just spending time together for a few hours minus 3 kids!! Lizzie was a little said we went to Hershey without her.

truth to what they say

2008-06-20T15:44:00.002-04:00

I know I have heard that one of the most important things in a family is for kids to see their mom and dad love each other. Well this week Lizzie said, "Mommy, I love it when you and Daddy are close to each other." I asked what she meant and she just sheepishly smiled and said, "You know, when you and Daddy huuggg and kissss." It opened my eyes to really making an effort to show kids, not just tell them, about love and caring. What we do is definitely watched by our kids, good and bad.

daddy's day

2008-06-16T11:06:00.007-04:00

Father's Day 2008 was laid back and relaxed. All Joe wanted was to relax and watch a little of the US Open. We played outside in the pool and had MeeMom and Poppy over for a little while during the afternoon.
There was a wonderful message at church this weekend. We had Family Dedication and the whole service was about family. We are doing a series called "Dash" and it is all about the dash that represents your life that is between the birth year and death year on a gravestone. It has been interesting the past few weeks, but this week, David discussed the importance of parenting and building the spiritual foundation for our kids. It was titled "Time Well Spent." (you can listen to it here next week) At the end, they had an interview with Steven Curtis Chapman and the events that lead up to him writing the song "Cinderella." This was written 4 months before one of the daughters he wrote it about was killed in a horrible accident. Needless to say, it was a tear filled auditorium and we all left realizing the importance of spending those extra few minutes with our kids and slowing down to do the little things with them.

mess

2008-06-16T10:41:00.012-04:00

Can someone please tell me why they can't make childproof caps for bubbles? I was inside doing the dishes after dinner and the kids were happily playing in the garage. I suddenly realized it got kind of quiet out there and, as most of you know, quiet is not good. I also noticed Lizzie running in and out quite a lot. Sooo, I walked out to see what was going on and this is what I found...So, in case you didn't know already, the inside garage floor is some special kind of cement that gets really slippery when wet, I mean it is so bad it is like ice. You can imagine now how slippery it would be not only wet but with bubbles all over it. The kids thought it would be fun to make footprints all over the floor. I had to get the hose and wash out all the soap into the driveway, there were lots of suds but the kids did smell nice.

We also had some unexpected entertainment when our field got plowed last week. We were waking up from our naps and heard loud sounds out back and saw this huge machine cutting the wheat. Then they went back and made rows of hay that they later baled into huge blocks. It was a cool process to watch (until Saturday night when apparently the last step is to fertilize the soil--lovely, it still stinks today as I write this).

Today I came home after publishing this and I was wrong. It didn't smell bad at all this weekend, nothing compared to how aweful it smells today. Oh...and our fly problem has now exploded with the new addition to the field.

Hannah watching the action

We are doing a little "farming" ourselves, unfortunately we harvested a little too early.

the hay baler

Jackson watching

the huge bale of hay

just to give you perspective, that is our play set next to that huge machine

Quote of the day: Lizzie and I were having a "discussion" before her nap about whether or not 5 year olds take naps. She informed me that her friend told her they do not and of course I said, "My mom made me take naps/have quiet time when I was 5, now I am telling you to take a nap/have quiet time and I am sure you will do the same for your kids when they are 5." To which Lizzie replied, "I am going to let my children do whatever they want!!"

picnic day

2008-06-16T10:30:00.006-04:00

We had the LCBC church picnic Sunday the 8th. It was in the midst of the heat wave that we had last week so it was in the upper 90s and humid. Fortunately, there was some shade under the trees, but all the fun stuff for the kids were in the sun. They had two firetruck tankers there and set up a huge sprinkler for the kids. Mattie offered to go get wet with Hannah. (Mattie is Hannah's buddy on Sundays, she watches her for me when Hannah is sick and I can't put her in the nursery, and she offers to take her to her room--she's a huge help!!) We had a good time and they had the ceremony for the ground breaking of the new addition. It was cool to see so many people there even though it was so warm. Here are some pictures a friend grabbed with her camera, thanks Sonja!!

the boys

birthday boy

2008-06-01T18:41:00.020-04:00

Our buddy boy got a little older this week. Jackson turned three this past Thursday and we had a special day on Thursday and then a family party on Saturday. Some things I like to see in this now 3 year old boy...How he and Lizzie converse. I love to sit back and eavesdrop on the two of them talking to each other about everything. I also love that he is potty trained, except while sleeping. He decides to go outside when at all possible, but his pants are dry!! I like to watch him while he is concentrating on coloring or golfing or baseball. I love that he likes to sit and watch golf with Joe rather than cartoons with Lizzie on Sundays.

Here are some pictures from his 3 years...

May 29, 2005

August 2005

January 2006

December 2005

July 2006

November 2006

December 2006May 2007September 2007
February 2008

April 2008

May 2008

May 29, 2008

"Better Batter Baseball" is all we have heard about around our house for the past few months and now Jackson has the one thing he wanted for his birthday.

Party Time

Quote of the Day: "Wow, there are a lot of presents for my birthday!"--Jackson said as he opened his gifts.

sunny day fun

2008-05-26T14:06:00.010-04:00

We finally had some May-like weather (not that I am complaining, I love the cool temps better than what is ahead), so we were able to go out all afternoon yesterday and play in the sun. Here are some pictures of that, and notice some are pre-buzz cut with Jackson.

Quote of the day: "Uh-oh!"--Hannah said today for the first time. She is also trying hard to say Liz and Jackson, but not quite there yet. She has her own special pronunciation of their names. ("yizzzz" and "ackss")

new do.

2008-05-26T13:58:00.005-04:00

Viewer Discretion is Advised: this may be difficult for some of you to look at, I am still getting used to it.

Joe and I decided to buzz Jackson's hair for the summer to save on cuts and time getting ready to go places (Joe is Jackson's stylist and it sometimes takes a while to get the hair products in just right).

Here are the pics he looks like such a big boy:

2 weeks left...

2008-05-24T21:28:00.007-04:00

As you all know, I have been working 25 hours a week for the past 8 weeks to cover for my friend/co-worker, Tanya, while she took a long-term sub position at school. She wanted to try it to see if it is where God wanted her or if He wanted her to stay at church (more in depth than that, but you get the idea). Anyway, she has decided to stay at church and in 2 weeks will take back her full duties and I can go back to my normal hours (they were 15, but will be 20 now). I know it sounds stupid that it is only an extra 10 hours I added per week, but it is crazy. I feel awful that I have, many a day, not given the kids the attention they need. I will be so glad to give back even the 5 extra hours. What a huge difference that will make in my week!!

A lot has been going on here. Besides all the extra work, we have manged to start potty training Jackson (which is going much better now, I think we almost have it), Lizzie finished up school and is excited to start Kindergarten (she thought it started the next day after preschool and sadly I had to report she had to wait 3 months), Hannah is now the fearless step descender and climber (on her belly of course) and she even climbs the ladder to the play set and goes down the slide herself--very funny!! Oh...and I roasted a 20 pound turkey yesterday for 9 HOURS, and then made turkey soup today!! For someone who hates cooking, it was a big deal and it actually tasted really good :)!!

Joe took the kids on a "nature walk" today on a trail outside our town. They had fun looking at the birds and chipmunks and each took a turn with the camera. Her are some photos from that.

I love the swinging arms in this one

looks like they were chasing a chipmunk

Quote of the day: "I like your lips!!" Jackson said to a friend of the family who was over visiting today. She had on lipstick and I guess he liked it.

me and my buddy.

2008-05-24T21:19:00.008-04:00

So...Jackson has a new best friend. We like to refer to him as "broom." He loves this thing. It is not something new, in fact I think Lizzie got it when she was 2 or 3, but all of a sudden, Jackson loves it. He takes it places in the car (I insist that he leave it in the car when we go to the store, not enough room in the cart for a broom handle to be swinging around), he sleeps with it, he has it all the time. Here are a few photos we captured of the buddies...

we have a family of groundhogs we have been watching,
here broom and him watch outside

sleeping

Quote of the day: The other night at dinner Jackson was praying, "Dear Jesus, thank you for all my family: Lizzie and (he stops and pops in a corn kernel from his plate), Hannah, Mommy, and Daddy..." Joe and I always peak at the kids when they pray and we both busted out laughing.

mommy's day

2008-05-11T21:28:00.005-04:00

My cousin Shelley said it very nicely on her blog about once you become a mom, you realize why the day is so important. She said, "It definitely has a whole new meaning now that I am a Mom. Certainly puts a new perspective on the holiday and the importance of celebrating all mothers and showering them with appreciation." I have to agree! Plus, you now have such a new appreciation for your mom and all that she did!!

What a wonderful day I had. Of course, we had to get up early for church and as I woke my sweet Lizzie up the first thing she said as she opened her eyes were "Happy Mother's Day, Mom!" I couldn't believe she remembered first thing in the morning. Come to find out, of course she would remember because my wonderful husband was busy "crafting" with the kids last night while I was at work and they had made me beautiful jewlery boxes. They were looking forward to my big day since the middle of last week when they got the boxes to make. So cute!!Joe got me this adorable frame and even printed out pictures for it that are fun to look at and make me smile!!After church, we grabbed some lunch and got to relax and watch The Patriot with Mel Gibson on HBO. What a treat!! Then I had my soccer game at 4:30 which was tons of fun and we won 3-0 (I had a shut-out as the goal keeper). I made a great save (not that I had a ton of shots on goal this week). I reached up and batted the ball out of the goal and then landed on it and had two players land on me. Thankfully, I didn't get hurt, but it was fun!! We came home and had the Carter family over for dessert to give Mrs. C. her gift for Mother's Day. It was really nice and the kids played well, which is always an added bonus.

Quote of the day: "Mom, when is it Sister's and Brother's Day?"--Lizzie asked sometime yesterday, to which I replied, as all mothers would, "Every day is Sister's and Brother's Day!!"

"Mom, I made a surprise for you," said Jackson today at church, "I made you a butterfly." --Jackson said today while I chatted with his teacher at the door mid-way through service.

"Dad, we've gotta talk."--Lizzie said to Joe to remind him that we had to give "Mee-mom" her gift tonight.

a day in the park

2008-05-09T14:28:00.013-04:00

Hershey Park had its big opening on Friday, May 2nd and we were able to go over and enjoy the park with our new season passes. It was so great. It was a beautiful day and not crowded at all. Plus, we didn't feel rushed to get on every ride because we can come back anytime. Jackson did fall and bite his cheek and there was a ton of blood, but he was fine after some ice and water. Enjoy these pics from the day...

Here is the measurement for the rides, Jackson is a
Miniature and Lizzie is finally a Hershey Kiss

Hannah is considered a

hand held infant :)Hannah was a little nervous to ride her horse

alone so Daddy hopped on to help her.

Quote of the Day: "Daddy, you hit me right in the bladder." Lizzie said as Joe was having a catch with her out front yesterday.

ben's friends

2008-05-07T16:39:00.008-04:00

Sunday before my trip, we did the March of Dimes walk for babies in Philly. We walked for the team Ben's Friends. My nephew, Ben, was born premature and so we walk for his team. It is amazing to see him now. He is a typical 20 month old who happens to be as tall as my short almost 3 year old. He is so cute check out his Blog. Here are some pictures from our 6 MILE WALK!!!

Aunt Liz and Lizzie

Brian, Ashley and Baby AidenHalfway there (3 miles down)

Birthday Parties!!

2008-05-07T16:10:00.011-04:00

So I am finally back on schedule after my "business trip" to Atlanta, GA for the Orange Conference. The video on this site is from last year, but you get the idea. It was amazing. Anyone who has been to a LIFE conference, it was similar to that, but for grown-ups. It was for kid Ministry and student Ministry leaders and had all types of breakout sessions and the main sessions were awesome with great music and speakers. Andy Stanley even made an appearance. I took away stuff for my work at church and stuff for my own life.

We had our April/May Birthday Party the weekend before I left and here are some of the pictures from that.

5 year old lizzie...

2008-04-22T09:44:00.041-04:00

Today is Lizzie's 5th Birthday!! She has been looking forward to her birthday since Christmas. Of course, she knows along with her birthday comes her 5 year old shots, but we are not discussing that.

Summer 2003

April 22, 2003

5 lbs 6 oz

Christmas 2003 Lizzie's 1st Birthday

Remind you of anyone?

Lizzie's 2nd Birthday

September 2005

Happy 3rd Birthday!!

We love you Lizzie!! How fast these 5 years have flown by!!

Quote of the day: "So Mom, when I am six maybe this skirt will fit and when I am six..."--Lizzie said at about 10 AM as she was trying on a skirt that was too big. I told her we need to get through turning 5 first.

springtime in the country

2008-04-15T18:59:00.013-04:00

Here we are at "Tax Day" also affectionately known as my Dad's Birthday!! We have been busy going to the "Alligator Park," it contains a dragon slide which is how Lizzie named the park when we first moved here, but I don't have the heart to tell them. We also have been enjoying the swing set and the driveway out front. It smells lovely out here most days with the farmers fertilizing the fields. Thankfully, the field behind us has not been fertilized and we actually found out it is planted with winter wheat because it was planted in the fall and grows until June or so. It has all of a sudden started growing taller. It should get to be about waste high.

The other day we went out when it was over 70 and played with chalk (some ate it), rode bikes, and roller skated. It was so good to get outside and run off some energy. Here are some pics of the day...

how can you not love this kid

some weren't happy to be photographed, at least one was

here is the eating of chalk I had mentioned

hard at work

notice most of it ended up on her shirt

she had fun just sitting on this bike

I was able to sneak a few shots

notice the still wet shirt

"man, my big brother is so cool"

Quote of the day: "I don't know what I was thinking, I forgot my helmet."--Lizzie said as she was getting ready to ride her bike. I don't think we ever thought about helmets when we were kids.

birthday baby!!

2008-04-01T02:59:00.022-04:00

Happy Birthday, Hannah Grace!! We had a fun day on Tuesday, the 1st, celebrating Hannah's 1st Birthday. She caught on pretty quickly that the day was all about her. It began with the singing, every time someone called to sing to her she'd listen and rock back and forth "dancing" to the song with a big smile on her face. She wore her shirt all day and was all smiles when people would wish her a happy day!! We also went out to play for a little while and Hannah had fun walking around and watching big brother and sister. We wrapped up the day with a yummy dinner, presents, and cupcakes for dessert. Wow, how time flies...here is the year in review!!

April 1, 2007, Welcome Hannah Grace 7lbs 2 ozs

Easter 2007

April 2007

May 2007

June 2007

July 2007

August 2007September 2007

October 2007

December 2007

January 2008February 2008

March 2008

BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS...

Watching Jackson and Lizzie

Playing with the toys

Cupcake...

After cupcake...

vermont.

2008-04-01T02:12:00.021-04:00

I am going to apologize in advance for the amount of pictures in this post, but I have not posted about the trip and have started to hear it from the fam. So here are the pics and a quick video made with Joe's phone of our adventure in Okemo, VT...

Our trip can be summed up with our three kids and what they liked to do in Vermont: ski, eat snow, lick the coat zipper.

The first day was kind of busy getting everything set. The second day we had some photo opps so we took them. It was really beautiful. It snowed several inches while we were there and it was so fun to enjoy it. Here Hannah is excited to be on the slope with us all and is enjoying the snow!!

Jackson wearing his skis the for the 2nd and last time all week!!

The Newbie

Jackson not so excited about skiing.

"I love the snow!!"

Happy to be off the skis...he could later be found eating snow telling Lizzie, "Good job, Lizzie. You win!!

This is the picture right before the "good one" from the other day. Again, very difficult to get everyone smiling.

Ski Buddies

I mean, come on...

Ski School (3 hours in the afternoon of day 1) she made it for 2 1/2!!

The guys watched the kids so the girls could go to the Vermont Country Store. I came back with some cheap entertainment "Gnarly Teeth."

We went over to another part of the resort and played on the snow hill (it was really just a big pile of ice and a little snow on top), but the kids had fun!!

Here is the licking of the zipper I mentioned.I guess it tasted really good.

A quick family shot, again, at least 2 of us are happy in this one!!

Finally, here is a quick video of our little ski bunny!! She was racing Daddy down the slopes by day 3!!

We all had a wonderful trip and it was so fun hanging out with the family. It definitly was different then our ski trips pre-kids, but it was so great having Lizzie try it out and introducing them all to something we did before they came along. We can't wait to try it again next winter!!

Quote of the week: "Ben, I am so glad we are brothers." --Jackson said to his cousin Ben after they both had just gotten up from a nap and were snuggling with me on my lap.

long time, no post

2008-03-27T22:52:00.004-04:00

OK, OK!! I know it has been forrreeevvverrrr since I have posted, but I do have some good excuses!!

I started my 25 hours a week the week of our Vermont trip so I had to actually get in 40 hours before we went away. This is tough to do working at home with 3 kids. I managed, but alas did not have any "free time" to do frivolous things like post on my blog.
I then was away in SNOWY Vermont and didn't post because I was having too much fun enjoying the winter we never had this year!!
This week, uggg...my computer froze and needed a trip to KOPs Apple Store Genius Bar. Thank goodness for them, but unfortunately they had to erase my hard drive and therefore, I have been spending all this week, putting everything back on (I don't recommend this to anyone)!! I also had to fit all my new hours in the short Wednesday-Friday!! Fun!!

Soooo...here I am exhausted at 11:00 at night and still need 10 more hours for work. I have posted a little "teaser" of the trip. Lizzie was bribed to smile in this pic. I promise more in the next week. We have a ton!!

Quote of the day: "Lizzie, when will you learn to obey the first time?" Joe said as he was trying to keep his patience with a little girl having trouble at dinner. "When I am 5 Daddy!!" --I had to cover my mouth and its brief smile.

"poor buddy boy"

2008-03-05T10:24:00.005-05:00

Lizzie affectionately refers to Jackson as "buddy boy." Jackson woke up Saturday night sick and was feeling better on Monday and then has had a bad bout of the runs for the last 2 days. He complains of his belly hurting and I have to change him quite a lot. Lizzie just keeps saying "poor buddy boy."

Here is a picture of him the other morning sleeping in.
Quote of the day: "There is a party in my belly and the milk is the pool." --Lizzie said after dinner the other night and followed up giving credit to the show "Yo, Gabba, Gabba" apparently they said this on the show.

rainy day fun

2008-02-26T14:15:00.012-05:00

It is a damp, rainy day (it should be snow) so we were relaxing at home this morning. The kids watched some of "Charlotte's Web" and we had fun taking pictures before lunch and school.

Hannah has marks all over from falling and a scratch I gave her on her head in the bath last night.Yes, that is slobber and some boogies...

Aren't they just the cutest..Crayola Window Markers are great for days like this (premess all over school clothes!!)
Oh, Mom's not watching, I'll try to escape.

I have had to move the gate so that Hannah cannot move it and try to get down the stairs to the basement. She had figured out how to get around it where it was before.

parent teacher conference

2008-02-26T09:45:00.004-05:00

Lizzie's First Day of Preschool

I had Lizzie's conference last Wednesday, February 20th. As a Kindergarten teacher, I hated this event. I was always nervous talking to parents about their most precious children. I always thought about how the parents are nervous right along with me. I went in on Wednesday, remembering that Lizzie's teachers were probably a little nervous too. I still felt like I was going to the Principal's Office.

So I went in, bracing for the worst. Lizzie had a rough start to the year. I had a few days at pick-up with whispered discussions at the door with her teacher about not following directions, not sharing, speaking out of turn. I have to say I left very proud of my little Lizzie and confident she is ready for the challenge of (sniff, sniff) Kindergarten!!

Her teachers began saying how much she has matured and has gotten into the routine and now knows what behaviors are appropriate for school. They had recorded some events that show how she is in school.

She loves to play dress-ups and always wants to get married, but their is only ever one boy who will go through the ceremony, Pierce (who by the way Lizzie has a crush on). She has a great imagination they said.
One day she had accidentally hit a boy in her class with a fishing pole. He began crying and Lizzie asked, "Are you okay, Evan?" to which Evan replied, "No, you really hurt me, but I forgive you." Lizzie continued by asking, "OK, but are you alright." Her teachers said they didn't even need to intervene because they worked it out on their own.
Then, they told me that at Christmastime they asked what Christmas was all about and Lizzie was the only one who said, "It is Jesus' Birthday!"
She knew 21 of 26 letters, counted from 1-28 (and then said 100), knew numbers randomly pointed to by her teacher and was able to use her scissors to cut out Valentine Hearts (an important skill for Kindergarten).

So, I am the mom and I am allowed these bragging rights, especially after how the year started. I am bracing for registration for school in 2 weeks and now have to prepare myself for her to be in the grade I once taught which is very strange for me.

Quote of the day: "I am ironing because I am married now." --Lizzie said to her teachers as she played in the house area after one of her weddings with Pierce.

happy hearts day.

2008-02-14T19:12:00.011-05:00

Valentine's Day...quickly turning into another busy holiday!! My day...actually lets start with yesterday afternoon. Speaking of hearts, I felt my heart in my throat when my external hard drive stopped working and all of my pictures, backups, iTunes were all on there and not able to be retrieved. I took it to church and was able to have it work there so I knew I could get everything off on that computer if need be. I came home, plugged it back in and it showed up with a warning to quickly back up and reformat (erase) the hard drive. ERASE :( Anyway, 1:30 AM it was backed up, reformatted and reloaded and is working fine. Phew!!

To today--I had my meeting at church that ran a little late and then we got home and had 15 minutes to eat before Lizzie had to be at school. I was quickly putting her signed valentine's with the candy when I realized we were 5 short, ugg (too much snacking)!! We ran to Giant, which was the most crowded I've ever seen with tons of people buying balloons and roses, and got more candy. Lizzie was late and I came home to clean-up half eaten lunch and get Hannah and Jackson to nap. I got 15 minutes to sit down after laundry, dishes, work.

Tonight was nice because Joe made dinner AND cleaned up. He's great. We made cupcakes and ate the left over batter and icing. It ended very relaxed and I am exhausted tonight.

Here are a few Happy Valentine's Day Pics. You can see my frustration with trying to get a picture of all 3 kids.

snow kids

2008-02-12T19:46:00.000-05:00

Today we finally had some snow. It started out slow, but by 4:00 or so was coming down heavy and laying. Joe came home from work (tired, cold and sick) and took Lizzie and Jackson out with him to start shoveling the driveway. (Isn't he the best dad in the world!!) They had fun getting buried and making snow angels. Hannah and I watched from the warmth of inside through the window.

Lizzie quickly got changed, she likes to wear my "warm socks."

Hannah was very sad she couldn't go outside.

Quote of the day: "Mommy, I love you so much!"-Jackson says at random times throughout the day, can a mommy ever get tired of this phrase?

valentine's "crafts"

2008-02-12T08:53:00.000-05:00

This weekend, Mom-mom gave the kids some goodies for Valentine's Day. They got their valentine cards (Disney Cars and Princesses) and she gave them sugar cookie mix, icing, cupcake mix, and stuff to decorate both. Lizzie, since Sunday before church, has been asking to do the "valentine crafts."

Yesterday, after their nap, we worked on the cards and the cookies. Lizzie wrote all her own cards out from a list of her class and signed her name--she was very tired at the end. The kids had fun decorating their cookies after they cooled.
Hannah was busy playing and didn't really want to be involved in the cookie decorating. She preferred walking around.
Quote of the day: "Dear Jesus, Thank you for my whole entire family and thank you for my family in Heaven like my Great Grandpops and Gracie and Irv's dog Holly and Murphy..."--Lizzie has prayed this same prayer at dinner and bedtime for the last few weeks.