Tony, Amy, Brady and Kayley Charon

Happy 2nd Birthday Kayley!

2010-06-28T09:51:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I haven't posted a thing since February! Not quite sure what I have been doing....

But today is Kayley Alice-Renee's 2nd Birthday and I am such a happy mom! So blessed that she is such a fire-cracker!!! Happy Birthday sweet girl! I love you so very much!

"I twooo"

B and K

2010-02-26T21:46:00.000-08:00

Our little Curious George.

"What's it gonna be - TEAMWORK" - yeah, all you moms know what I'm talking about!

"Are these on sale mom?" - our thrifty shopper.

This is classic Kayley right now - Ask her to make her"face" and this is what she comes up with!

A visit from Teja and Ryah!

2010-02-26T21:40:00.000-08:00

Grandma's Girls - with matching jammies.

Teja is practicing her new designer line, coming summer 2010!

Silly Ryah and Brady, while off in the distance, Kayley waiting to show her new outfit.

And, for the finishing touches!

Just some random pics!

2010-02-26T21:33:00.000-08:00

My Forever Valentine!

The glue of the family! Mima and Papa!

Gettin' Crazy!

Our Diva!

Star Wars is HUGE right now! Brady with his buddies, patiently waiting to "battle" with their dads!

All Together...

2010-02-26T21:29:00.000-08:00

A surprise 70th birthday party for Papa Curt brought us all together - just the 21 of us!

A Stitch in Time!

2010-02-13T09:32:00.001-08:00

It was only a matter of time. There have been so many close calls, and we even mentioned the other day - we have been pretty lucky that there haven't been any major accidents with the kids...that is until now!
It was like any other nornmal day, the kids were playing Star Wars legos (that's the new cool thing these days) and they were using the dining room table as their fort, and the chairs as the Star Wars ships "docking stations". No horse play - no running around - everything was clam, boys were using inside voices. The last thing on my mind was that in a matter of seconds Brady's forehead would be split wide open by a dining room table chair.
So where was mom and Kayley - I had Kayley up on the counter - fixing that crazy hair of hers like I do everyday.
When Brady ran around the corner crying, I saw his forehead and immediately knew we needed to get him to a doctor. I called Tony, "Get Home Now", as he was at work, and then I called my amazing neighbor across the street. She was here within a matter of seconds! I was trying to get Brady to show her his forehead - and she just calmly said, "you know, I think I will get Kayley off the counter first". OH BOY - in all that I had forgot that Kayley was still on the counter! Lesson Learned: make sure all kids are safe before handling an emergency.
Anyways, I have attached some pictures of the aftermath. We are happy to report that 3 stitches later, a Yoda figurine and a Obi-wan-kanobi figurine with a speeder spaceship from Toys R Us - Brady was back to his normal, funny, crazy, happy self within a matter of hours!
Thank goodness it was only 3 stitches!

Warning: pictures not for the squeamish!

Christmas 2009

2010-01-10T19:59:00.000-08:00

It never works...trying to get them both to smile for the camera at the same time. Someone is always off. Hence, no family Christmas picture by the tree. Pretty much close to impossible.

My cousin Laura and I with our AMAZING grandma Alice!

All the kids with grammy!

Christmas with the Larsen's

2010-01-10T19:54:00.000-08:00

Ryah still not too sure about that uncle Tony!

The hostess with the mostess!
She prepared an awesome Christmas dinner for all of us!

Kayley all "wrapped" up in the moment!

"Ring around the Rosie..."

Santa arrived...barely!

2010-01-10T19:45:00.000-08:00

So just how many of Santa's elves find themselves in similar situations...

...that cute little kitchen over to the right took about 4.5 hours to put together.
I think the elves went to bed around 2:30 Christmas morning. But, so worth the excitement in the morning!

It may be just as much Brady's Kitchen as it is Kayley's Kitchen!

Kayley super excited to open her stocking!

"No time for pictures mom" as Brady and Kayley both completely sidetracked!

Christmas Eve 2009

2010-01-10T19:36:00.000-08:00

We spent Christmas Eve with our Cousins Abigail and Rachel.

Abigail and Brady cheesin' it up!

Rachel wants no part in hugs

"Brady? What did you just do?"

Mima and Kayley

Ryah is Two!

2009-11-29T21:28:00.001-08:00

We are at such a fun age with our kids! They make us laugh all day, and Ryah's day was no exception! She was a crack up and so stinkin' cute! Happy Birthday Ryah! We love you!

How precious!

Ryah with her padres!

careful, precise and utinsils!

messy, don't care, fingers!

Ryah's favorite Auntie!

Bday fun!

2009-11-29T21:22:00.000-08:00

Our friend Kellen turned two in November! He had a fun bday at the jump/gymnastics gym! Happy Birthday Kellen!

Moniques nephew Cooper, Angie's baby Kellen and Kayley and Brady in the background...this was the only shot I could get with the 4 of them together!

"Cheeeese"

"Kayley, Kayley, Kayley the Explorer!"

Manzanita

2009-11-29T21:14:00.000-08:00

The Larsen clan took a trip to Manzanita - I guess the camera only came out on the beach, but it was a fun weekend of food, games, football and NERTS!

Phil and Ryah braving the waves!

Not really sure about this, something is very wrong here!

Again, not really sure what's going on here!

"kinda stormy out here gramps!"

It's been a while...

2009-10-27T13:06:00.000-07:00

Has it almost been 3 months since our last post???? Time is getting away from us very quickly! We have had such a busy fall, and our camera is on it's very last leg, so we haven't taken lots of pictures, but here are a few of the kiddos! We are happy to announce that this year for Halloween Brady asked to be BUZZ Lightyear! Yes folks, BUZZ - not Wendy, not Tinkerbell, but BUZZ! We seized that opportunity quickly and headed for the store!

Could he be any happier?

Here is our littlest Beaver Fan!

My Grandma and I

2009-08-03T08:37:00.000-07:00

The most amazing grandmother one could ask for! I love her dearly!

Family Reunion

2009-08-03T08:30:00.000-07:00

Another rare family photo

The guys...

Grandma and Kayley

Kayley just being funny

Enjoying time with grandma Alice!

Poolside

2009-08-03T08:23:00.000-07:00

taking time for Tinkerbell - one of our cousin's puppy.

with Grandma...

Brady had a good time with cousin Jeff

He even took him to the deep end!

Swimming with Kaly.

We have so many fun cousin's! We had a blast with all of them!

swimming, swimming and more swimming

2009-08-03T08:15:00.001-07:00

Let Girls weekend begin!

Uncle Gary and Auntie Janet with Kayley! thanks for the great week and sharing your home!

I remember wearing one of these when I was her size! So cute!

playing with cousin Pam in the water

We love aunt Mary!

Daddin' and Gators!

2009-08-02T15:24:00.000-07:00

We have had so much fun over the past few weeks with a trip to Redding, a trip to Grandma Alice's house and time spent with Grandma and Papa! Here are just a few pictures of Brady - time well spent with Papa! More pictures to come.

Brady with Papa's good friend Lee - they went "daddin" also known as crawdading!

searching....

Gator Races with papa! Phew - this was a close one!

Speed Racer!

Time for a pit stop!

This is not goodbye....

2009-07-20T07:40:00.000-07:00

...It's more of a, "we'll see you REAL soon!"
It's a very bitter-sweet week for us. Our good freinds, Casey, Teissa and their kids Izaac and Bella are leaving Portland for a few years while Casey ventures off into the world of Med School! We are so happy for them and so excited to see what God has in store for them - because it's much bigger than anything we could ever imagine!
Casey and Teissa, living about 2 minutes away from us, have been such a huge part of our lives. Casey and Tony growing up together, Teissa and I meeting when they moved back to Portland after college - they have become a part of our family. We have shared many dinners, breakfasts, running routes, birthdays, holiday parties, weekend getaways, park dates, and much more with them. We have watched eachother as we have all grown in our marriages, celebrating the arrivals of our children, growing in faith together, everything you could ask for in a strong friendship! We will miss them so much!!! But we know they will be so happy! Teissa will be closer to her family, so they have a lot of support where they are going, and they have a ton of support from Portland! So wherever this venture takes them - they have a foundation of love, friendship, support and God!

Teissa's farewell party with the caregroup girls!

Couldn't go with out a picture of the two of us!

The fisherman...

2009-07-16T14:26:00.000-07:00

The day Brady was born, Papa Kim came to the hospital with a fishing pole in his hand. This fishing pole has been neatly hanging in Brady's room ever since. Finally, he was able to take it down and start his new found sport of fishing. Brady has been out twice now with Papa Kim. Both times he has caught a fish (we do count the first ittie bittie one). The ones shown in this update were taken on Papa's 60th Birthday. The boys went out and had some good fishin' time!
Thanks Papa!

One Year Ago!

2009-06-29T08:51:00.000-07:00

A day we will never forget! A roller coaster of a day it was. The day Kayley Alice-Renee decided it was time to show us who was really boss! Doing things her own way!
I was to be induced that morning, but Kayley decided that she was coming on her own time -water broke about 8 hours before being admitted - after weeks of thinking she would be early!
Many of you may not know how Kayley came into this world - not breathing. For the first 4 1/2 minutes Kayley would not take that first breath of air. I cannot tell you how much of a scary time that was for Tony and I. I tear up every time I think about it, and talk about it. Her first apgar score was a one, meaning pretty much non-responsive. With 7 or 8 nurses working on her, slapping her feet, pulling on all limbs, oxygen over her mouth, all trying to stimulate the little gray, limp body that we loved since we knew we were pregnant. It was a terrifying moment for us - and our mothers who were in the room with us. However, after 4 1/2 minutes, she took that first breath of air - and recovered fully! Apgar score at 5 minutes was a 9! Pretty much meaning fully responsive! What a miracle. We hate to think about what could have been - it's hard not to! Kayley is so full of life, always smiling, such a good spirited baby, that it pains me to think I may not have ever known the Kayley that I know today. It has just really instilled a different kind of faith in God for me - a faith that He is the one in control, He does have plans for us, and that He does perform tiny miracles everyday! Kayley is living proof of that! I know that He has a plan for Kayley - and it will be amazing! Happy Birthday Kayley Bayley - you mean the world to us!

An emotional start, but here she was when I got to hold her for the first time, breathing!

Precious baby!

Right before going in at 1:00 am!

Such a happy mommy!

Happy Birthday Kayley Bayley!

2009-06-29T08:44:00.000-07:00

Celebration and Grandma and Papa's house!
Thank you to EVERYONE who joined us to celebrate Kayley Alice- Renee turning one! We had a wonderful time, we will never forget how much you all mean to us!

How fast it goes!

The pretty Birthday Girl! In her Birthday dress! Thanks grandma!

The proud parents!

"Look at Me! I am One!"

2009-06-29T08:36:00.000-07:00

Her very own cake.

Strawberry shortcake with Grandma Alice - thanks for the dress Aunt Mary and Uncle Lynn (I am sure you helped pick it Unc!)

"Happy Birthday? To me???" Kayley loving the singing part of the party!

Happy Early 60th to Papa! We sang to him also!

Our Baby is ONE!

2009-06-29T08:28:00.000-07:00

Celbration at Mima and Papa's house!

Thanks to Mima and Papa for the purple car, and Auntie Monique for the race horse - Rachel and Kayley will be having many races through the house!

Yummy cake!

So tasty!

Family picture - minus Lil' B! - he was way too busy with the party!

Look out world! I am ONE!

Grandpa Doug

2009-06-16T08:07:00.000-07:00

I was just thinking about my grandpa this morning and thought I would share some pictures of him and the kids!

Have a blessed day today!

Happy Anniversary Babe!

2009-06-11T16:40:00.000-07:00

Some might say the Seven Year Itch - this is anything but!
One June 1st, we celebrated seven years of wedded bliss! It's been the best 7 years one could ask for! We enjoyed time at the beach house, playing golf, cards, shopping, eating great food, watching the sunset, also enjoying a few wineries along the way - so beautiful!
Thanks babe for making me a better person! I love you!

A little update

2009-06-05T15:53:00.000-07:00

Brady's 1'st fishin' trip with ol' Gramps! He caught a "gigantic" fish! His first one ever! Look at that proud look! Many more fishin' trips planned!

Kayley Alice-Renne with Great Gandma Alice!

Papa and Brady playing their guitar duo!

Brady with his cousin Lindsay - watching the horses on our visit to California.

Brady with cousin Magnus!

Teja and Ryah

2009-06-05T15:47:00.000-07:00

Our nieces are growing up so fast! Teja is 7 1/2 and Ryah is 18 months! They are so cute!

267 Computer Viruses!

2009-05-26T14:07:00.000-07:00

Well - we have been out of commission for a while! And not sure when we will be back up and running! If anyone knows of someone who fixes computers - let us know!
We will get some current pictures up of the kids when we get a chance. Right now we are hoping that we can retrieve pictures from our computer that we don't have backed up somewhere else. What a headache! In the meantime, we are all doing really well! kids are growing so fast!
Hope all is well and we will update as we can!

Happy Easter!

2009-04-14T15:00:00.001-07:00

We just got back from one of the best Easter's we have had! The kids and I left a few days early to spend some extra time with my Grandma Alice - who is the most amazing woman I know. She is a woman who lives by her faith, she loves her family and can make you feel like the most important person in her life. She is one of kind and I am so thankful and feel so privledged to be one of her many grandchildren!
Brady was able to attend the Florence Easter egg hunt on Saturday and then Sunday we woke up to his Easter basket that the Easer Bunny left. We had a great breakfast and then went to church with my grandma. After church we went back to her house and started putting together dinner. We had such a great time with Uncle Lynn, Aunt Mary and Cousin Laura! There never is a dull moment between the kids, my dad, aunt Mary and the knowledge and wisdom of uncle Lynn! Thank you for making this such a memorable Easter you guys! We love you!

"Tony - act natural!"
Easter Dinner at Grandma's!

I just thought her eyes were so BLUE in this picture.

In her Easter dress.

Brady with Grandma Alice.

Couldn't resist!

2009-04-06T14:40:00.000-07:00

Alright. I was feeling guilty that I didn't post a picture with my last update - so here is one of Kayley, Brady wasn't in the mood for a photo shoot!

Kayley's 9 month appointment

2009-04-06T12:41:00.001-07:00

Nine Months! WOW! CRAZY! Well, I don't have a picture of her today - but she just is doing so great! The doctor said, although small, she is strong, healthy, flirty, absolutley no personality (input sarcasm here!), and just ready to be ONE! He skipped the nine month talk with me and went right on into what he advises parents of one year olds at this stage. Not walking yet, but she is such a cruizer on her knees and just needs a bit more balance and then she will be off and running! She walks along furniture and can walk on her own when she has a finger to attach herself to. No teeth yet! I keep laughing at myself because every little runny nose she gets - every little bit of fussiness I always blame it on "TEETHING" - but there are yet to be any teeth. So eventually those will come. In the meantime, blame it on the teeth!
We are starting to see her sign to us - well, I guess it's just one word - "more", which can be a very useful sign. Brady is having fun signing to her, "more food please". Such a great brother when it comes down to it all. Still having issues with "MY toys", and "SHE is getting my things", but I suppose that comes along with the territory.
All in all, life is so great with these two. We are absolutley loving the great weather we are having today and we look forward to such a fun summer, filled with new adventures, friends, family, and many good times! AHH, the sunshine brings a whole new refreshment to life!
We will leave you with the 9 month stats!
Kayley is a whopping 13 pounds 13 ounces and measures in at 26 inches "tall".
OKAY, so not a whopper and not tall by any means, but she is healthy and that's what counts!
Happy Easter!

The Girls...

2009-03-30T07:42:00.000-07:00

Rachel waiting so patiently for her dinner.

"Do I have anything on my face?"

Entertainment for the girls at the bowling alley.

Birthday Bowling

2009-03-30T07:37:00.000-07:00

A rare family photo!

"The Wait"...

"The thrill"

"The BUNZ"

Who knew turning 30 would be a whole week event!

2009-03-30T07:31:00.001-07:00

Mom made all of these cakes from scratch! She's the best!

All the birthday boys!

You know you are getting old when you start asking for edgers and ladders for your birthday!

Daddy is 30!

2009-03-24T08:58:00.000-07:00

God has blessed my life with so many wonderful things - great health, 2 beautiful kids, loving and supportive family and friends, and most of all - that amazing husband of mine!

So, 10 years have come and gone. When Tony turned 20 we were in college, on a road trip with some friends to Southern Californa going to Santa Barbara to meet up with his brothers. This was the first time I met his brothers - it was an adventure for sure! And it has been an adventure ever since! From being single to married, living in an apartment in Portland to living in a trailer in Princeville, IL., from pumpkin seed farming to starting a career, being married with no kids to married with 2 kids, and everything else in between - it's been a sweet ride! Happy Birthday Babe! They don't get any better than you! We love you!

Where does the time go???

2009-03-21T14:29:00.000-07:00

Ready to go swimming...

As I took this picture of Brady this morning, I looked back at this photo and thought - Oh my goodness, he looks like a boy - not a baby, not a toddler, but a youth! WOW! It sort of stopped me in my tracks. You know the saying "the days seem like years, but the years seem like days"...there is so much truth to that. Even now that he is getting his own opinion on EVERYTHING and has become quite territorial with his sister (you know, stepping on her hands so she can't crawl, being a road block for her whenever she starts to explore) this is still such a special time in our lives. We are enjoying every second and know that it can't be taken for granted. So happy to share it all with you!

Thank you Grandma Janese for my new Beaver sweatshirt!

Look at this miniature Tony - his newest saying (because he has heard me say it so much):
"I have my daddies eyes...I should give them back to him. Daddy, I have your eyes, and you have my eyes."

So stinkin' cute in her little 2 piece and pigtails!

2009-03-12T13:32:00.000-07:00

Just don't listen to my babbling, but it won't be too much longer until we have another walker on our hands! Watch out Brady...here she comes!!

(Kayley at 8 1/2 months)

Random Pics...

2009-03-12T13:25:00.000-07:00

This is the first time since Kayley has been crawling that Brady has asked to hold Kayley. He has become quite territorial since she has become mobile...hope it doesn't last forever!

Yes - out with the piggies, and in with the pony! Can you believe how long her hair is getting???

Off and walking, but not too excited about - it's a lot of work mom!

Nothing New Here

2009-02-27T08:07:00.000-08:00

Just thought I would post a few pictures from the past few weeks. Enjoy your weekend!

Kayley hanging out with Papa Curt

Our friend Juliet came over to play last week - MMMMMM Kripsy Kreme's!

Going for a wild bucket ride!

Kayley joined in on the fun!

We also had our friend Alex over - he is going to be an awsome Big Brother!

We knew she was strong, but.....

2009-02-16T16:12:00.001-08:00

I wasn't expecting this!!!!

I walked into Kayley's room this afternon when she woke up from her nap and this is how I found her!!! I guess we need to raise the bar!!!

Quick trip to Eugene!

2009-02-11T08:59:00.001-08:00

The kids and I took a quick trip to Eugene to go to a birthday party for my best friend's dad! Happy Birthday Doug!! Auntie Sarah was there with open arms to hold little miss Kayley! We love you so much Auntie Sarah! Grandma Ruth - you are pretty amazing yourself!

I have heard that Ryah's mommy calls her "Big Booty Judy" - but I think she is "Little Miss Cutie!" She plays so well Kayley! We love you Ry-Ry!

All the cousins together! Grandma is always so wiped out after a visit from these four!

Kayley Update

2009-02-06T08:07:00.000-08:00

Another weigh in - 12lbs 2 oz! Now we just have to stay at this pace. We spoke with our Doctor yesterday and we both decided that we didn't need to see any specialists. My mommy instinct has always been that she is just fine - she is a normal baby, doing all the things she should be doing - she just spits up a lot and burns the calories faster that they come. His instinct was pretty much the same - if there wasn't a growth curve, she would be considered perfect in every way! She's just petite and there is nothing wrong with that. He would just like her to continue following her own growth curve - that is the battle. So we will stick with the eating schedule we have and hopefully she will continue to grow at a good pace! Thanks for all the prayers!

Yay! Sunshine!

2009-02-06T07:57:00.000-08:00

We got our camera back just in time for the sunshine and a trip to the park with Mima! Unfortunately the sun has come and gone - typical Oregon

Ok - not the park, but he loves her so much!

"Look Mima, Pirates!"

"Under dog Mima...PLEASE"
and she does - she is one talented Mima!

Kayley's first time in the swing - I think she likes it - I can't tell!!!!

Crazy Brady!

2009-02-06T07:52:00.000-08:00

I may only be 3, but I am so strong!

The ladies are gonna love this!

"Can you deal with that!"

Charon update

2009-01-28T14:28:00.001-08:00

We have been without a camera for almost 2 weeks - that's why we don't have any new pictures. I have been taking some videos, so maybe someday I can sit down and figure out how to post those. In the meantime...
We took our first long trip to Bend with Kayley - (I mean long as in longer than a 2 hour ride). Tony's cousin Corey married a very lovely woman by the name of Kelly. And as Brady (the bride stalker of the evening) would say, "Kelly was soooo pretty!" After the ceremony - you know the part where they say kiss the bride - Brady jumped up out of Papa's lap and shouted, "that was GREAT." It was comical!
We stayed in Bend at Chris and Jenn's house - they were great hosts for the weekend with all 17 of us! We went to church with them the next day and then we were off for the car ride home - and it felt like an eternity!!!! Snow falling, ice paving the road, slow drivers on the pass, kids screaming in the car!! Oh boy - was it ever so delightful! We made it though - but to our friends and family in Bend - I don't think we will be back with our kids until they are 18!
We went in for Kayley's follow up flu shot - and I took the opportunity to weigh her. A bit of a set back since the last great weigh in. She went from almost a pound in 2 weeks, to 1/2 ounce in the last two weeks. So off for more weigh in's and again, re-evaluating her eating schedule! She is doing so great and hitting her every mark and mile post - but this weight thing is something I can not understand and comprehend. We will get there though - I am sure of it!
Hope all is doing well and we will do our best to keep up to date with out a camera!

Kayley is gettin' fat!

2009-01-14T07:40:00.000-08:00

Our last weigh in for her was December 26th and Kayley weighed in at 10 lbs 12 oz. I was so discouraged because we are feeding her all the time and it seems as though she isn't spitting up like she used to. So we really have been pushing the solids. It has really paid off. We went in for a flu shot on Monday and I put her on the scale -oh my! To my pleasant surprise, the girl weighed in at 11 lbs 10.5 oz!!!! We are talking close to a pound! AMAZING! So we continue to pray for healthy weight gain for her and we do appreciate all the thoughts and prayers from family and friends!

Happy Birthday Papa!

2009-01-14T07:35:00.000-08:00

We spent New Year's at the beach house with Tony's family. A lot of food, fun and games! What more could you ask for. Papa had a Birthday and as the kids would say - "this is the best birthday cake ever!". Here is papa with Abigail and Brady. The babies were sleeping.

Extra Pictures

2008-12-30T09:45:00.000-08:00

And the stockings were hung!

"I've got my daddy wrapped around my finger!"

"Papa, let's go open presents!"

Brother's, Sister's and the kids!

Cousin Lo - nothing short of amazing herself!

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-30T09:36:00.000-08:00

"It's a fun game papa, but will you take me REAL fishing?"

Kayley Alice received her stocking from Great Grandma Alice! How Beautiful!

Teja and Brady ready to eat breakfast so we can open presents!

Aunt Mary - the most wonderful, hospitable, fun, and loving aunt anyone could ever ask for! Thanks for everything Uncle Lynn and Aunt Mary - you guys are unbelievably amazing!

Christmas morning with the kids

2008-12-30T09:29:00.000-08:00

SO it all begins...

...like father, like son - or is it like son, like father!

"Oh boy, my very own wrapping paper and ribbon", Kayley more interested in the paper than what's inside!

We tried for a family picture - this was the best one - oops, maybe next year!

My baby's 1st Christmas - Mommy's girl!

Up on the housetop...

2008-12-30T09:27:00.001-08:00

..there was no chimney!

He made a scuffle in the snow and walked through the back door!

'Twas the night before Christmas...

2008-12-30T09:05:00.000-08:00

...and all through the house...

...EVERY creature was stirring...

...EVEN the mouse!!!

Merry Christmas to all, and to all a "sugary" night!

Kayley's first snow!

2008-12-23T11:04:00.000-08:00

This was the result of our snow storm last week - as you can see by the grass in the lawn peekin' out, we had more snow this week. But it's still beautiful!

While the kids sleep.....

2008-12-23T10:59:00.002-08:00

...the adults will play!!!!!
We decided to spend a few days at Tony's parents house with his brother and sister and their families while we were sort of snowed in. We did go out and play in it one evening and had so much fun! It's good to feel like a kid again!

Mima and Papa with the Girls!

2008-12-23T10:57:00.000-08:00

Mima bought these matching santa outfits - they sure do love their mima and papa!

"Arctic Blast 2008"

2008-12-23T10:50:00.000-08:00

This week's "blast" had a bit more snow with it than last week. Here is the table in the back that seems like it has about 12" on it! So much fun!

Those bushes on the top of the rock wall are fence high - but are now really weighed down!

"I guess you don't have to worry about mowing Tony!"

Had to get a shot of the front yard!

Photo shoot gone bad!

2008-12-18T11:45:00.000-08:00

Since we have been stuck indoors with the snow, Itried to get some pictures of the kids for Christmas cards. Needless to say, our Christmas cards will be late this year! But here is a few shots of Kayley in her dress.

Three Years of Love, Laughter and much Joy!

2008-12-10T00:20:00.001-08:00

Brady asked me if I wanted to lay with him for a minute tonight before he fell asleep - so, being it his Birthday and all, I just wanted to cherish the moment. I asked him what his most favorite part of the day was - it was the stickers!! Hoping to get a real sentimental answer - I got stickers!! I guess that it what makes this age so much fun - you never know what's going to come out of his mouth, or what he is going to do next! Just as I was going to get up, Brady said, "Mommy, I love you very very much", it just doesn't get any better than this! What an amazing three years it has been. I am so lucky to be able to stay home with him, enjoying this time in his life - thank you Tony for all you do for us - you are amazing! I know where Lil' B get's it!
All in all we had a very fun day - started out with a hot chocolate and cinnamon roll breakfast, then off to Toys R Us (Geoffery sent a b-day card to Brady). We finished it off with a small party at Tony's parents house. Thank you for all those who sent Birthday wishes!

Ending the day off right! (with sugar)

I know, I know - I've got mad cake decorating skills! Ha!!!

Staring the day off right! (with sugar)

Birthday celebration

2008-12-10T00:16:00.001-08:00

More pigtail requests...

2008-12-10T00:10:00.001-08:00

She is such a happy baby, even when she is not feeling well. If you have not met Kayley in person yet, all you need to know is that the pigtails totally match her personality - fun, cute, spunky and both just make you smile!

"Hey Kayley, whatcha got over there?"

Gotta love these two together - Kayley and Rachel

A visit to Mrs Claus'

2008-12-10T00:06:00.000-08:00

We went to see Mrs Claus after the tree cutting and caught up with our cousin, Abigail afterwards. Such good friends!

Oh Cristmas tree, Oh Christmas Tree...

2008-12-09T23:53:00.000-08:00

We found that perfect Christmas tree - you know, the one where the clouds part and the sunrays fall upon that perfect tree out in the forest and out of nowhere you hear the choir singing - crazy how that works!
This year we did it right. Out of the house and back to unload the tree in 40 minutes!! Whoohoo!

The final product (sorry, out of order!)

Our little tree topper.

Brady being the happy light helper.

"I am just here to supervise. Doing good dad, doing good!"

"What in the world are we doing out here dad. Cutting a tree and bringing it in the house - you guys are nuts!" Kayley, not so thrilled to be out in the cold.

Where is Christmas?

2008-12-05T14:35:00.000-08:00

The other night we decided to break out the Christmas music and decorate a gingerbread house. It was so much fun. We are really looking forward sharing this time with Brady, because this year he kind of "gets" it. He is so excited because it means we can break out all those Burl Ives Christmas movies, and the Polar Express. After a while of decorating and listening to music, the conversation went something like this:

"Hey daddy? Where is Christmas?" says our ever so smart Brady.
"What do you mean Brady?", says the ever so all knowing daddy.
" I said, Where is Christmas?"
"Well Brady, Christmas is in your heart!"
Brady walks to the kitchen (where I am cleaning up our gooey gingerbread house mess). He shrugs his shoulders, holds is hands out and says,
"Mommy, where is my heart?!!!!!"

It was one of those moments that absolutely melted my heart! As I said, we are really looking forward to Christmas this year with Brady. We hope everyone will enjoy the season and take in these precious moments with your kids!

Early Birthday...

2008-12-05T14:30:00.000-08:00

One of my best freinds, Monique, came over and gave Brady an early birthday present - The Mickey Mouse Clubhouse. Brady LOVES it! He has been playing with it since he got it!! Thanks Anutie Monique!

Ryah is ONE!

2008-11-19T09:00:00.000-08:00

The pretty Birthday girl!

"MMMM, Cake! Sugar! Mess! My kind of fun!"

"Papa, will you buy me a pony?"

Toys Toys Toys

2008-11-19T08:59:00.000-08:00

Solids!

2008-11-19T08:56:00.001-08:00

Due to our weight gaining issues, we are starting her early on rice cereal. She still doesn't get the food on the spoon concept, but we now put rice cereal, in the rice starch formula bottle! Hopefully we are crossing this hurddle - it's been a tough one. Keep your fingers crossed for us as we go in for another weigh in.

Sweet Little Kayley

2008-11-19T08:55:00.000-08:00

Our card shark

2008-11-19T08:49:00.001-08:00

I asked Brady last week what he wanted to be when he was older - his response, "I want to be a shark!". I don't think he meant a card shark - but here he is in action!

"I think I will raise you a pack of m&m's"

"I'm not sure what those 4 seven's do, but that ace is pretty high".

FEET - I've got my FEET!

2008-11-19T08:48:00.001-08:00

You know you are at Grandma and Papa's house when.....

2008-11-19T08:43:00.000-08:00

...a bath from Grandma tuckers you out.

...your bath is the kitchen sink.

...your 4 month old has a hold of M & M's.

..a flock of 23 turkeys are pecking outside your window!

Grandpa Doug

2008-11-19T08:39:00.001-08:00

My grandpa Doug stayed with my parents for a few months while he went through radiation treatment. It was good to have him there while we visitied. He is now at home, recovering.

Grandpa wasn't so sure how he was going to get up! But he did!

Kayley with Great Grandpa Doug!

A night in Corvallis!

2008-11-19T08:35:00.000-08:00

Our good friend Joel came to visit from California! He joined us for the Arizona State game. Tony's parents were so gracious to take the kids all night since it was a night game. We had so much fun - just like old times! The more things change, the more they stay the same. We love you Joel!!!

"Highway to the Danger Zone!"

AHHH - good times!

Haloween 2008

2008-11-19T08:27:00.000-08:00

"Hey Mima, remember that song Peter, Peter, Pumpkin Eater?"

Brady and the girls!

Give us your best tiger roar!

Abigail with Rachel

"I bet they can't see me if I close my eyes."

We had so much fun with our cousins trick-or-treating! Alexa and Alyson were there along with Abigail and Rachel. As Brady says, "This is the best Halloween ever!". He has asked every night since then to go trick-or-treating. And the Halloween special we recorded - we watch it everyday! These holidays seems to last months!!!

Happy Tuesday!

2008-10-21T08:49:00.000-07:00

Potty Training - Part 2

2008-10-21T08:45:00.000-07:00

This is day 4 of potty training! And we are making real progress! He is now starting to tell us when he has to go! He is doing amazing with only 4 little accidents - yesterday we were accident free! We will see what the day brings us...WOW, it's the little things in life, isn't it!
Any tips on night time training???

This is for my mom!

2008-10-13T12:10:00.001-07:00

This rosebud outfit was given to my mom for me when I was a baby - from my Aunt Janet. My mom has kept so many things over the years, but I think this one is by by far her favorite. She always talk about how precious this rosebud dress was. When Kayley was born, she took it out of her hope chest and cleaned it up for her. So, mom, this one is for you! Still precious as ever!

Beaver Game Day!

2008-10-13T08:20:00.000-07:00

Brady with Papa, Grandma and Daddy.

Say Cheese!

Brady on the lookout for Benny and the cheerleaders!

Rolling over

2008-10-13T08:15:00.001-07:00

She is starting to roll from her back to her tummy! Growing up so fast!

Almost there!

Not a rolling over picture, but had to share. This is Kayley getting acquainted with her swing friends! She looks thrilled, doesn't she?

You asked for it - I shall deliver....

2008-10-02T14:42:00.000-07:00

A lot of people have asked me to put her hair in pigtails! Here you go - only a small fuss from her - I think she liked the end result though.

And what a night it was!

2008-09-26T15:23:00.001-07:00

I am sure you have all heard it by now - OSU hands USC a major upset in Beaver Nation! It was amazing!!!! The best game that we have been to in a while, maybe ever! OSU 27 USC 21!
And from the very first drive - to the last knee, the game was INTENSE - even a little scary there in the middle.
Tony's parent's were so gracious to take the kids for us - so Tony and I headed down to our old stomppin' grounds. We did our usual tailgate, which is always a blast (thanks mom and dad!) and then headed our way to the stadium, and you can bet, there were a lot of people thinking that our little Beavs weren't going to pull it off. But, as soon as you walked into that stadium and saw the sea of orange - it was SO energizing! You could feel it in the air!
How fun was it to be jumping up and down, clapping, yelling, screaming and cheering for those Beavs! And all the more fun without a front pack attached! Tony and I LOVE this time of year. We love these Beaver games - win or loose, but it's way more fun winning!
Babe - I have so much fun sharing these times with you! Thanks for sharing them with me!
And Congrats to our Beavers! They did a perfect job last night! (And we will forgive that point after that was missed! That kept the last 1:30 exciting!

Just a little something to make you smile! Happy Wednesday!

2008-09-24T09:30:00.000-07:00

Oaks Park

2008-09-24T09:27:00.001-07:00

A much closer and cheaper version of Disneyland.

UP, UP, ............

AND AWAYYYYYY!

"Riding along in my automobile....."

more park pictures...

2008-09-24T09:21:00.000-07:00

Jeannie with Luke and Brady - wanting to go one more time around on the roller coaster.

"Shake it now baby, twist and shout" - Brady and Lukas dancing in their own corner.

Sellwood Park - the kids LOVED finding "treasures" on the beach.

A beautiful Fall day in Portland.

Good ol' fun of rock throwing.

Juliet is TWO!

2008-09-22T15:07:00.000-07:00

She is one of our Caregroup friends! Her Birthday was so much fun!

Here is the park that Juliet's party was at - Camp Rivendale!

"Should we chase the girls?" - Brady and Izaac

Teissa and Izabella! We love the Green Family!

And here's the chase!

A weekend at home!

2008-09-22T15:03:00.000-07:00

A much needed bath!

"Ahhh, that feels better" - a very clean and happy Kayley

Daddy's first time feeding Kayley - Yup, that's right folks - FIRST time for daddy! Pretty Lucky huh?

We have been going on quite a few walks with BOB!

BOB - our new friend!

2008-09-15T20:01:00.000-07:00

THANK YOU MOM and JENNA! I bought my dualie!
(there is no excuse for not being in shape now!)

Ryah and Kayley

2008-09-15T09:55:00.001-07:00

Ryah all tuckered out, and Kayley sharing jokes with her carseat friends!

JD Larsen!

2008-09-15T09:47:00.001-07:00

My cousin's boy - Justin - is playing POP Warner football. They had a game on Sunday and whipped some Junction City booty!

I am pretty sure he is on the far right - in the orange and black!

GO #41!

Brady with Justin's sister's, Lindsey and Sidney. Sidney was our flower girl (the red head!) I can't believe how old they are getting!

My cousin Kirk with Mom, Ryah, Tony and Kayley.

Here is the STAR! He was our ringbear in the wedding - CRAZY!

GO BEAVS!!

2008-09-15T09:35:00.000-07:00

Brady with my cousin's little boy, Dayne - they are good friends!

Here is part of our group!

Such good buddies!

Jodie and Kayley

"Oh Man - do we have to leave?"

WHOO! Finally - a "W"! A rough start to the season, but the Beavs pulled out a victory over Hawaii on Saturday! It was Kayley's first game and was a trooper through it all. We did our usual tailgate with good friends and family - Hawaiian style! Thanks to the Ganley's for hooking us up with some wonderful Hawaiian Food (if you have never been to the Bamboo Grove Hawaiian Grille off Macadam, you should go! It's one of our favorites!).

Look who is Seven!

2008-09-12T13:46:00.001-07:00

We spent the after noon partying with Teja at Putter's in Eugene. My sister in law is CRAZY. I don't know how many kids were there, but it sure did seem like a lot. That Teja sure is Miss Popular! We had a great time, and Brady as usual tried to keep up with the older kids - he was wiped out by evenings end! Happy Birthday Te!

Cake Time!

Papa is going to teach Teja how to play the Guitar.

Double Trouble!

Is she old enough to babysit yet?

They are too cute together! No, not Phil and Paul!

Mr Logan is ONE!

2008-09-12T13:31:00.000-07:00

"Oh Grandma, he is so cute!"

Carrie, Logan and Paul

"Look at my loot!"

Teja leading the pack!

"I promise I won't kiss him papa, can you just please let me out?"

I can hardly believe that I have only really seen Logan a handful of times since he was born. Guess it shows how time flies! Logan is the son of the "other brother" that I never had! Phil and Paul have been best friends since, what, the 1st grade? It was fun growing up with them and having two older brothers to look up to. They kept me safe!

It is fun to be able to get our kids together now and watch them play. I hope we can get together more often. Good work with that little one Paul and Carrie! He is so handsome!

My Papa and Me!

2008-09-12T13:28:00.000-07:00

"Is that why the chicken crossed the road?"

"Really?"

"That's a good one Papa!"

A Tall and Skinny Charon????

2008-09-04T12:31:00.000-07:00

Is it typical for a mom of two children to forget about a Doctor's Appointment until about an hour before the appointment??? Needless to say I was racing around at the last minute to get ready for it. But the little one is thriving very well.
The doctor was very impressed with how much she is doing already - holding her neck and head very steady, she is SO social - loves to smile, and talk. She almost turned over for him (tummy to back) - he said that she just thinks she is 4 months old doing all these things. She is constantly moving all limbs when awake - never slowing down (watch out Michael Phelps!).

Here are her stats:
weight: 8lbs 15 oz (10th)
length: 22 3/4 inches (75th!!!!!)
Where did this come from????

He is worried about her weight, but due to her amazing reflux ability to spit up every few minutes, he gave me some advice - smaller, more frequent feedings! Just what every mother wants to hear - more time spent feeding! On the flip side, she did just sleep through the whole night last night!! WHOOHOO! She ate around 9 pm and I had to wake her at 6:15 this morning! She just might be a sleeper after all (we won't get exctied just yet though)!
Sidenote: I was just informed that long and lean babies are hypermetabolizers, also known as "Banana Babies". Kayley is a Banana Baby! Hold onto that for as long as you can girly!

Mommy and Kayley

2008-09-03T16:35:00.000-07:00

"Yes, many shopping trips, pedicures and spa days are planned - we just won't tell daddy!"

It's Beach Time!

2008-09-03T08:08:00.001-07:00

"Do you think we can bury Papa in the sand"

These bikes were the new hit on the beach - here is Tony showing off.

Tony's sister, Amy, and Mima taking their turn.

Even Brady had a ride.

So did Abigail with her dad, Scott.

The boys

2008-09-03T08:06:00.001-07:00

Family

2008-09-03T07:57:00.000-07:00

Always a warm welcome for Uncle Chris!

"Mima and Papa? Can we stop at the ice cream shop?"

"Can someone please give me a boy cousin to play with?"
Brady with Alexa, Alyson, and Abigail

"psst, Kayley, what did we get ourselves into, this family is nuts!"
Rachel and Kayley planning their escape!

Waiting so patiently to go to the beach.