Happy Birthday Caleb and Michelle

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Tonight we celebrated Caleb and Aunt Michelle's birthday with the Gransee's.  Gotta love it when it rains while you are swimming!  IMG_4099A birthday squeeze for Aunt Chelle!IMG_4097IMG_4106IMG_4109Noah was a very willing "helper" to Caleb tonight while he was opening his gifts and blowing out his candles.  I loved seeing how excited he was for Caleb's birthday.  Such a fun night!
Posted by Julie at 10:25 PM // Caleb , Family , Fun , Noah // 0 Comments

Caleb's 2nd Birthday

Monday, July 26, 2010

Caleb is two! We had a great day celebrating our sweet little boy. He started out the day with a trip to the airport to pick up Laney. Then it was to Bagel Nosh to have a "fancy" bagel (this is what the boys call a non-Sara Lee type bagel). We paid a visit to our new favorite splash pad in Fountain Hills, and then had cheeseburgers with fries and watermelon for dinner. Everyone went for a evening dip in the pool, and the kids sported their Mater lips lollipops. Then we all gave Caleb a few presents to open, sang happy birthday and let him blow out the candles on his "cookie cake". This kid definitely prefers cookies over real cake. IMG_4079IMG_4077This picture is hysterical to me! I am so easily entertained. IMG_4088IMG_4092

All about Caleb... 

He loves music. He sings while he plays, and he loves to be sung to. Before he goes to sleep I usually rock him and sing to him, he will request song after song. Favorites are "God is So Good", "Trust and Obey", "I Cast All My Cares", and "Jesus, Name Above All Names". 

He is starting to ask a lot of questions. When we pull out of the driveway, he always asks, "Where we going Mama?" and at random times throughout the day, "What time is it Mama?" 

He likes to be laughed at. If you laugh, he will repeat the behavior, word, or whatever until its just not funny anymore. If he tries out some new word or behavior, he will ask, "Is it funny Mama?" If it is not funny (for example, spitting), I will tell him so and he will say, "It IS funny Mama!" and then do it again. 

He memorizes easily. He knows countless books by heart. I love testing him out by stopping mid-sentence when I'm reading to him and letting him say the words. 

He loves my parent's dog, Chase. A little too much, yuck. 

He recently figured out how to pedal and steer his little red trike.  

He is not good at watching TV or movies. Pretty much hangs around for the theme song and then looses interest. 

He is a puzzle whiz. He is learning his colors, and he can count to about 14 or 15. He recognizes his name on paper. 

His favorite foods are smoothies, fruit snacks, veggie baby food (weird), red meat, Taco Bell cheese roll ups, and baby carrots. 

He's such a fun and clever little guy, and we're so thankful God blessed our family with his presence!
Posted by Julie at 9:43 PM // Caleb , Family , Fun , Noah // 0 Comments

Maui 2010... The Beach

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

The boys loved hanging out on the beach. We had a blast watching them play in the water and sand, boogie boarding, paddle boarding, and hunting for sand crabs.IMG_3856 IMG_3999IMG_4021Hey there little crabby patty, you've got sand in your eyes!IMG_3922IMG_3985The paddle boarding was really fun, but did require a lot of balance. My dad thought it was so easy, he just started doing cool tricks on it. :-) IMG_3993IMG_3966IMG_3953
Posted by Julie at 4:17 PM // Caleb , Family , Food , Fun , Noah // 0 Comments

Yosemite 2010

Saturday, June 19, 2010

Oh man, this road trip almost did this mama in, but in the end, it was so worth the drive (not to mention the laundry pile up I'm facing now).  It also helped to break the 16 hour drive up into two days, stopping to visit my brother and sister in law in southern California.  We took the boys to the Crab Cooker in Newport Beach for dinner, and then introduced them to the beach.  They loved it, even though it was pretty cold.  
IMG_3749 IMG_3741 IMG_3743If you've never been to Yosemite, this is what you've been missing! It is the most beautiful place I have ever visited. In the midst of peaceful meadows, towering rock formations, and waterfalls, you cannot help but think about the God who created them. I wish I would have taken more pictures (I only got the camera out on two of the seven days we were there) and I wish I would have taken pictures of the rest of my family we went with, and not just my boys! But here's what we've got... IMG_3775 IMG_3756 IMG_3764 IMG_3762IMG_3799 IMG_3818 IMG_3820 IMG_3828 The boys loved riding the shuttle bus all over Yosemite Valley, hanging out nonstop with their dad, and playing in the dirt with their cousin Aaron. I loved being with my family, and cooking with dutch ovens. We made the best lasagna, cinnamon rolls, biscuits, and blackberry cobbler. It was also great to be outside with the highs in the 70's, and letting the boys get really good and dirty. I'm still trying to get the dirt out from under their nails.  Got to get back to the laundry... we are leaving for Maui in eleven days!
Posted by Julie at 8:48 PM // Caleb , Family , Fun , Noah , Us // 1 Comments

Splash!

Thursday, June 10, 2010

Every couple of weeks, my parents sign up to flood their yard in order to deep water the citrus trees.  One more perk of living here, I'd say! Knowing how much our cousin Aaron loves a good swim, we had to invite him over too. IMG_3724IMG_3722IMG_3730
Posted by Julie at 7:10 AM // Caleb , Fun , Noah // 0 Comments

Peaches and Fun

Wednesday, June 02, 2010

Today we drove out to Schnepf Farms to meet up with some friends and pick us some peaches.    We also rode the train and played on the playground at the farm.  It was warm, but worth it!IMG_3691IMG_3694IMG_3696IMG_3702 Hoping to make a fresh peach pie today!
Posted by Julie at 12:55 PM // Caleb , Food , Fun , Noah // 0 Comments

Noah's Fourth Bday

Friday, May 28, 2010

Noah turned four yesterday!  We had a fabulous day celebrating, and my favorite quotes from Noah are, "Are my legs four too?" and "It feels so good to be four!"IMG_3618IMG_3582IMG_3666Caleb thought it might as well be his birthday too- especially since Noah is always looking for someone to ride with him in his new Gator!IMG_3635Sometimes, being four just takes it out of you!
Posted by Julie at 1:57 PM // Caleb , Family , Fun , Noah // 2 Comments

Conversations

Tuesday, May 04, 2010

Just had this little interaction with Noah, and wanted to remember it for sure!

Noah: "Mama, can I have a question for you?"
Me: "Sure Buddy."
Noah: "Who did they put up on the cross?"
Me: "Jesus."
Noah: "Where did they put him when he died?"
Me: "In the tomb."
Noah: "And was it a happy day when Jesus was alive?"
Me: "Yes it was!"
Noah: "Mama, can I go to space?"

The funny thing is that this is an exact replica of the conversation my cousin Melissa has with her son on their blog (minus the space part), which Noah loves to watch .  Aaron is a little evangelist before he even knows it!
Posted by Julie at 1:11 PM // Noah // 0 Comments

Grease Monkeys

Tuesday, April 13, 2010

This boy comes from a long line of car lovers, so I shouldn't be surprised that where there is an engine and wheels, there's Noah.  Uncle Jeffy came this weekend to work on his Mustang and finally take it home, and Noah begged to hang out in the garage all weekend long. IMG_3488IMG_3489IMG_3490 We also had a little family shindig while Jeff was here, and I love how the little ones all play outside together these days!IMG_3492
Posted by Julie at 1:39 PM // Family , Fun , Noah // 0 Comments

Easter 2010

Monday, April 05, 2010

IMG_3422Decorating eggs, and pretending to eat them...IMG_3444Egg hunt #1IMG_3455Poor little donkey!IMG_3446Our mother cannot resist matching shirts...IMG_3468Egg hunt #2IMG_3470IMG_3481
Posted by Julie at 12:40 PM // Caleb , Family , Fun , Holidays , Noah // 1 Comments

I. Love. You.

Friday, February 12, 2010

Happy Valentine's Day!
Posted by Julie at 8:38 PM // Caleb , Holidays , Noah // 4 Comments

Stuff He Says

Wednesday, February 10, 2010

IMG_3061There are a few words and phrases that Noah is in the habit of mispronouncing that make me smile, so I thought I would record them here: 

Instead of "coin", he says "poin". 
Instead of "stool", he says "stoof". 
Instead of "pinch poke, you owe me a coke" he says "pinch poke, we're out of coke" 
Instead of "Uncle Lee" he says "Uncle Leave" 
Instead of "gichie gichie goo" he says "gichie gichie goon" 
Instead of privates, he says frivates. 
He used to say "beltseat" but now it's "beatselt".
His teacher gave him a heart "tootat" on his arm for Valentine's Day.
Sometimes Caleb is sick, and has to do his "breathing macheatment" (machine + treatment)


This kid is as goofy as his smile. I love him!
Posted by Julie at 9:51 AM // Noah // 0 Comments

New Years 2010

Sunday, January 17, 2010

Catching up a little bit, we were able to spend a long weekend up at the cabin for New Years.  There was just a little bit of snow on the ground... enough to justify getting all bundled up to feel it crunch under your boots.  IMG_3547Caleb, you can go play in the snow next year!IMG_3544We just relaxed...IMG_3562Read books...IMG_3567Stayed up too late...IMG_3563Happy New Years 2010!IMG_3354
Posted by Julie at 6:07 PM // Caleb , Family , Food , Fun , Holidays , Noah , Recipes // 1 Comments

Little Blog Stalker

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Noah loves his cousin Aaron. When he can't see him in person, he loves to go to his blog and click on the little triangle next to the videos. He watches them over and over, and it never gets old! Since Cory and I got each other a Flip for Christmas, I decided to post video of Noah watching one of his favorites, "The one where Aaron says the orange is yucky."
 
Posted by Julie at 10:24 AM // Noah // 1 Comments

Christmas 2009 Baking Day

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

Can I just say, I am a COOKIE person!  I love cake, pie, ice cream, and candy, but most of all I love cookies!  So I get a little excited when this day rolls around each year.  It's quite chaotic with all the kiddos underfoot, and this year they really wanted to help (can't blame them, but yuck), but we managed to get it all done.  These are my favorite Christmas cookie recipes, and a few pictures of all the fun.  

Christmas Oatmeal
IMG_2815 ShortbreadIMG_2817 Peanut Butter BlossomsIMG_2819 Emilee's Chocolate ChipIMG_2821 Bear Claws (recipe posted here)IMG_2829 My mom showed me this book today and I absolutely loved it! 
 "COOPERATE means, How about you add the chips while I stir?"IMG_2827 Papa Ken helped the kiddos decorate sugar cookies.IMG_2801 My mom and Aunt Debbe were cookie machines! We mostly just cheered them on...IMG_2769 Such a sweet Aunt Kaelyn. Laney and Noah are totally captivated when she reads to them. IMG_2765

Recipes

Christmas Oatmeal Cookies 
1 cup butter 
1/2 cup sugar 
1 cup flour 
1 tsp. vanilla 
1 1/2 cup oatmeal 
 Cream butter and sugar together. Add vanilla, then flour and oatmeal. Drop 1 inch balls onto cookie sheet and flatten with fingers. Bake at 350 degrees for 12-15 minutes and dust with powdered sugar. 

Shortbread 
1 pound butter 
4 cups flour 
1 cup sugar 
 Cream butter and sugar together. Gradually add flour, mixing by hand and kneading until all the flour is gone. Roll out 1/2 inch thick on floured surface. Cut cookies into 1 inch by 2 inch bars, and place on cookie sheets. Prick with a fork. Bake in a 300 degree oven for 40 minutes. Take them out of the oven when they are a tiny bit browned on the edges.  

Peanut Butter Blossoms (hardly a recipe) We used a tube of premade peanut butter cookie dough. Just roll 1 inch balls of dough in sugar, and bake according to directions on package. One minute before they are done, press a Hershey's kiss in the middle and return to oven for one more minute. 

Emilee's Chocolate Chip 
1 cup sugar 
1 cup brown sugar 
1 cup butter melted
2 eggs 
2 tsp. vanilla 
1 tsp. salt 
1 tsp. baking soda
3 cups flour
12 oz. bag of semisweet chocolate chips
 Combine all ingredients together in order. Bake at 350 degrees for 11 minutes or until just golden brown.
Posted by Julie at 3:41 PM // Caleb , Family , Food , Fun , Holidays , Noah , Recipes // 0 Comments

Chocoholic

Monday, November 30, 2009

Last night we set up the tree and put out a few decorations. Noah doesn't really remember them from last year so they were pretty much all new and exciting to him. He loved the house with 25 little doors counting down to December 25th. I explained that we would get some chocolate candies to put in each door, and then he could eat one each day until Christmas. His eyes lit up and he said, "That's a GREAT idea!" He loves chocolate... 

This morning at about 5:30am, I heard little feet padding into our bedroom. I felt Noah's face close to mine, and opened my eyes in the darkness. He whispered, "Hi Mama. Did you get the chocolate?" 

 Nothing like the enthusiasm of a three year old to get you in the Christmas spirit! IMG_2722
Posted by Julie at 11:44 AM // Holidays , Noah // 2 Comments

Random

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

I haven't had too much to post about lately.   The kids have been sick, so mostly my pictures would be of snotty nosed sad little boys in there PJ's.  So I haven't had the camera out of the case very much lately.  But I'm thinking we are getting better now.  These are pictures from the cabin that Cory's mom took this fall.  

IMG_2879Cory and Caleb having a good time at the park. IMG_2731Three generations of Gransee men.IMG_2717Making sure Caleb's little tree is okay.IMG_2681Noah at a car show up in Show Low. He continues to love all things cars. IMG_2974I'm not sure if this picture makes me want to laugh or cry! Caleb is back on breathing treatments for the flu season, so we are pretty used to seeing him like this. I think it's really cute when babies have ears that stick out, but I'm glad his don't look like this all the time!
Posted by Julie at 1:30 PM // Caleb , Family , Fun , Noah // 1 Comments

Happy Pumpkin Day 2009

Saturday, October 31, 2009

IMG_2535Noah loved his "Mickey Mouse Clubhouse" pumpkin that Cory carved for him while he took his nap today...IMG_2519Trick or treating with Aaron and Brynn.IMG_2516Don't you wish your UPS guy was this cute?IMG_2541Sit back and enjoy the loot! No pictures to post of Caleb this year... poor little guy is sick and had to miss out, but he had fun having his Nana and Bompa all to himself for the night while we went out trick-or-treating.
Posted by Julie at 10:31 PM // Family , Fun , Holidays , Noah // 0 Comments

MEN AT WORK

Thursday, October 29, 2009

IMG_1234...in their jammies.
Posted by Julie at 3:19 PM // Caleb , Noah // 1 Comments

Noahisms

Thursday, October 29, 2009

A few more funny things Noah has come up with lately...

He uses the words "itch" and "scratch" interchangeably.  He saw some gunk stuck to the floor, and told me he needed to "itch" it off.

He starts most sentences with "because".  "Because I need to go the park!"  Even when no one asks him a question, he still says things like, "Because I really want some gold fish."

We always talk about Noah choosing to obey.  He has started to use that against us... If he doesn't get what he wants, he says (strongly), "Because you're not obeying me!" or "Mama, Cotchie is not obeying me!" Oh boy...

He likes to say "why not?" but doesn't use it right.  We'll be driving in the car, and he'll say, "Where are we going?"  I tell him, "We are going to church." Then he'll say, "Why not?"

He is starting to try to figure out the concept of time and days... I will tell him about something fun we are going to do on Saturday.  He'll ask, "Is it Saturday yet?"  I'll say, "No, not yet."  Then he'll be quiet for a couple minutes, and then suddenly stop what he's doing, look outside, and proclaim, "It's Saturday!"

He's starting to try to read.  He was looking at my dad's truck and pointed to the letters, "S-U-P-E-R-D-U-T-Y. That spells truck."  Well, at least he's using his context clues!




Posted by Julie at 10:27 AM // Noah // 0 Comments

Kentucky Day Three

Thursday, October 22, 2009

Since our airplane ride home was leaving from Louisville in the evening, we decided to make the  1.5 hour drive from Wilmore to Louisville after stopping at a quaint breakfast place, and then spend the rest of the day at the Louisville Zoo before heading to the airport to catch our flight.  IMG_2454IMG_2455IMG_2467This little cafe was called "Main and Maple" and they had really good cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting. I also tried "grits" for the first time, seeing as how I was in the South. They are um... gritty. IMG_2496It was a nice zoo, and the animals were pretty active and out in the open, but pictures of animals at a zoo are rarely impressive, so I'll just post the ones I took of the humans there.  IMG_2493The zoo had a really cute train ride that was broken down that day, and Noah was a little disappointed. But, then he loved being able to walk on the tracks (since the train was not running). IMG_2488Noah also loved (as I knew he would) riding in the airplane. When the plane was getting ready to lift off, he would look out the window and say, "Faster, faster airplane, you can do it!" Once we had been flying for a little while and had leveled off, he asked "Why did the plane stop?" It is kind of funny how the sensation of movement goes away after a while. Thanks for the lovely visit, Kristin and Laney! We can't wait to see you at Christmas!
Posted by Julie at 6:35 PM // Family , Food , Fun , Noah // 3 Comments

Kentucky Day Two

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

After our coffee, we headed out to visit Asbury's Equine Center.  This is the road we took to get there, and I had to ask to pull over for some pictures. Kaelyn was the only one who would get out of the car with me, so we took pictures of each other. IMG_2329IMG_2334We thought the kids would love the horses, which they did, but Noah was also interested in this "newer fsphreder"  (manure spreader?).  I have no idea if that is an actual manure spreader, but Noah said it was, and they were fast friends.  IMG_2314From there we went to Boyd's Apple Orchard. We played on the slides, climbed hay bales, went on a hay ride tour of the orchard, and rode horses. When we went inside for lunch, we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and did not hold back. They had so many apple desserts! I didn't know where to start! Fried apple pie, funnel cake, carmel apples, and apple cider donuts!IMG_2348IMG_2353IMG_2364IMG_2374IMG_2403IMG_2441IMG_2431IMG_2422IMG_2443After a sleepy drive home, we read books, watched football and rested.  We grabbed a quick bite to eat to dinner, showered the kids and put them to bed. Kristin and I stayed up late catching up. Such a great day!
Posted by Julie at 2:33 PM // Family , Food , Fun , Noah // 2 Comments

Kentucky Day One

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

I've got so many pictures to share from our trip to Kentucky to visit Kristin and Laney. I went a little camera happy so I'll post each day separately.

Noah and Laney were so happy to be together. When they first saw each other at the airport, they ran toward each other with arms wide open and collided into a big hug... A Hallmark moment for sure!  IMG_2201One thing about our visit to Kentucky that I loved: While it was 100 degrees in Phoenix, AZ the high in Wilmore, KY was 45 degrees!  This is the walkway in front of Kristin's apartment. IMG_2208We started out the day at a nearby coffeehouse. I love coffee in Arizona, but it tastes really good when it's cold outside. IMG_2213Main Steet, Wilmore, KY (they have TWO stop lights!)IMG_2220IMG_2218Taking advantage of a vintage brick wall...IMG_2215My sister was kind enough to have the leaves show a brilliant display of colors just for us...IMG_2260 After touring Asbury's campus and exploring the little town, we drove to a nearby city to each lunch and let the kid's burn some energy at an indoor play place (like McDonald's on steroids). Then we took the kids to see Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs, which was really cute. We ended the day with soup in a bread bowl at Panera, which was very cozy and warm! Next up... Day Two at the Apple Orchard.
Posted by Julie at 10:39 PM // Family , Fun , Noah // 2 Comments

"Because I'm not tired..."

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

IMG_2172Noah is becoming one of those little boys who doesn't really feel sleepy in the afternoon, but if he misses a nap, he is a wreck by dinnertime. So when I  put him down for his nap, he usually tells me he is just not sleepy! Wouldn't it be great if I could say, "Oh okay Noah, how about you stay awake and clean up the house, and I'll take a nap!" Then we'd both be happy.
Posted by Julie at 1:51 PM // Noah , Thoughts // 1 Comments

What I Love

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Just reflecting on the things in my life that I am loving right now, for example...

I'm loving how Caleb and Noah like to reach across the backseat of the car to hold hands while we drive (until Noah pulls a little too hard and Caleb starts to cry)

I'm loving how Caleb loves his strawberry, banana, and spinach smoothie every morning.  Noah likes to push the buttons on the blender, but just wants one little sip.

I'm loving that Noah and Cory are having some one on one time together.  

I'm loving the new mom's group at church.

I'm loving the things I am learning in my Tuesday morning Bible study, "Calm My Anxious Heart."  Its so much more than being worry free, and more like learning to be content with all God has given.  

I'm loving these chocolate chip cookies:

Mix all together:  2 sticks butter, 3/4 cups brown sugar, 3.5oz instant vanilla pudding, 1 tsp. vanilla. 

Beat in 2 eggs

Mix: 2 1/4 cup flour
       1 tsp. baking soda

Mix all together, and add 12 oz bag chocolate chips.  Bake on stone at 375 for 8-10 minutes.  
Sound familiar, Trudy M?

I'm loving that it just might be getting cooler soon.  

I'm loving falling asleep to Chris Rice's The Living Room Sessions every night.  

I'm loving how I can look forward to a long kiddo-free weekend in San Diego with my husband.  

I'm loving that I found two new shirts for my husband on sale today, and that my mom wanted to buy me a new shirt too.  

I'm loving Noah's expression in this picture.IMG_1625
I'm loving that Caleb said "Amen" when we finished praying for our lunch today.  

I'm really loving how Fresh and Easy has fairly good prices, little coupons, bags groceries for you, carries my favorite Greek yogurt, never has long lines at checkout, free stickers, crayons, and coloring books for kids, has clean restrooms, and close parking for people with kids.  

How about you?
Posted by Julie at 3:29 PM // Caleb , Noah , Thoughts // 4 Comments

Learning New Things

Tuesday, September 08, 2009

IMG_2103IMG_2106"Up the mountain down the mountain up the mountain, make a circle, up the mountain down the mountain make a bridge, line line make a bridge. I did it!!!"
Posted by Julie at 5:05 PM // Noah // 2 Comments

Looking for a challenge?

Thursday, September 03, 2009

IMG_2070Try putting a puzzle together with socks on your hands!
Posted by Julie at 1:36 PM // Noah // 2 Comments

Buddies

Thursday, September 03, 2009

IMG_2067"Of all the things I have to play, I'd choose my brother anyday!"
Posted by Julie at 9:48 AM // Caleb , Family , Noah // 1 Comments

Puzzle Boys

Wednesday, August 26, 2009

What we really want to do is go run around outside...IMG_2024 But since Arizona summers don't always allow that...IMG_2015 Puzzles keep our little hands busy in the meantime.
Posted by Julie at 12:15 PM // Caleb , Fun , Noah // 0 Comments

Noah's Big Boat

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

51a59AbqJSL._BO2,204,203,200_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-click,TopRight,35,-76_AA240_SH20_OU01_I love, love, love reading to my boys.  Readers are leaders, you know!  Noah's favorite book to read lately has been these Bible story books by Ella K. Lindvall.  I love that he loves them because my mom read them to us when my brother and sister and I were little.  He always asks me to start with the same story, Noah's Big Boat.  The illustrations are wonderful, and the last page of this story is a big rainbow.  He loves to name each color as he points, saying, "Red, orange, yeyow, green, blue, indigo, violin!"  Some things are too cute to correct!
Posted by Julie at 2:03 PM // Noah // 0 Comments

zoomzoom

Saturday, August 01, 2009

IMG_2521This is Noah riding a go-cart for the first time in his little life. He seriously was smiling so hard I thought his cheeks would explode! IMG_2614 And here he is crying on my shoulder because he couldn't ride the fast ones with the big boys. Oh the life of a 3 year old!
Posted by Julie at 4:27 PM // Fun , Noah // 0 Comments

snugglebrothers

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

IMG_1744IMG_1755
Posted by Julie at 2:28 PM // Caleb , Noah // 7 Comments

For Your Viewing Pleasure

Saturday, July 11, 2009



Posted by Julie at 7:19 AM // Noah // 3 Comments

So Berry Yummy

Tuesday, June 30, 2009

IMG_1655
Posted by Julie at 3:30 PM // Noah // 2 Comments

More Cabin Pics

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

We decided to celebrate Father's Day and Cory's dad's birthday all together up at the cabin, so here are more pictures taken in the lovely cool pines of Show Low.  We went up a day earlier than everyone else, and spent some time with my grandparents who spend much of the summer up north where it's nice and cool and green and quiet.  We had fun with them feeding the ducks, playing at the park, and grilling some hot dogs too. IMG_1562IMG_1578IMG_1587Being the boy that he is, Noah has such a fascination with wheels. Imagine the excitement he displayed when his Nana and Bompa arrived at the cabin towing this new toy. Meet "the Rhino". Cory took me for a little spin through the forest, and we were surprised to see a few deer in our path! IMG_2495And this little cutie hasn't really decided that walking is easier than crawling yet, but he is working on it! IMG_1595IMG_1598IMG_1601
Posted by Julie at 3:19 PM // Caleb , Family , Noah // 0 Comments

Oh Gosh!

Tuesday, June 09, 2009

This morning Noah and I were eating strawberries for breakfast, and one of his strawberries slipped off his fork and (splat) hit the ground.  He looked down and muttered, "oh gosh".  Not the worst thing he could say, but it sounded so bratty 13 year old, and not so innocent little 3 year old cutie pie.  Obviously, he's going to repeat whatever he hears us say.  So what do I say?  You have to say something when those sudden moments of unexpected frustration drop in your lap, right?  Oh jeepers.  Good gravy.  Oh my stars.  Good gracious.  Tarter sauce.  Oh dear.  
Posted by Julie at 8:04 AM // Noah , Thoughts // 2 Comments

Noah's 3rd Birthday (in detail)

Wednesday, May 27, 2009

7:30am... Curious George and a strawberry smoothie.IMG_1386
10:30am... BG, Laney, and Kaelyn come over to say happy birthday!
11:30am... Daddy let him take the wheel.IMG_1392
12:00pm... Enjoy some PeiWei.IMG_1400
1:00pm... Arrive at "tractor store".  This is the moment he's been anticipating for weeks!IMG_1406
2:00pm... Stop by Nana and Bompa's office and receive more birthday well wishes.
3:00pm... Even birthday boys must take a nap.  He wanted to sleep with new John Deere combine.IMG_1448
5:00pm... Actually skip dinner and just have ice cream cake. IMG_1465 
7:00pm... Take Noah to his first movie in the theater (Earth).  Loved it!  Good thing we were the only ones in the theater... He had a lot of questions as usual.  
9:30pm... Say prayers, thanking God for Noah and his three years.  What a blessing.  

Posted by Julie at 10:16 PM // Fun , Noah // 5 Comments

Family Party Highlights

Tuesday, May 26, 2009

Noah gets to share his May family birthday parties with Laney and Uncle Doug... Here are some pictures from the parties we had this month:IMG_1292IMG_1288IMG_1300IMG_1421IMG_1431IMG_1471IMG_1489
Posted by Julie at 10:37 PM // Family , Noah // 0 Comments

The Optimist

Sunday, May 24, 2009

Sometimes Noah and I have a little date together at Costco.  He loves to mingle with the sample ladies, check out the forklifts in the back, and of course the food court.  He has downed both slices of pizza (minus the crust) on more than one occasion.  As we leave the store, it is always Noah's responsibility to hand the receipt to the Costco employee who checks the number of items in the cart.  Most of the time, a friendly worker will draw him a smiley face on the back of the receipt and hand it back to him.  It totally makes his day!  "A smiley face, Mama, for me!"  Last time we were there, a very serious, older man was stationed at the receipt checkpoint.  Noah handed him our receipt expectantly, and without any kind of communication, the man made his mark on the receipt and handed it back to Noah.  I braced myself for his  disappointment, but as we pushed the cart out toward the parking lot, Noah exclaimed with pure joy, "A line!  He drew me a line!"  Way to see the glass half full, little buddy.  
Posted by Julie at 2:10 PM // Noah // 3 Comments

Think Happy Thoughts...

Wednesday, May 13, 2009

Today I am thankful for the following:

Mostly tile flooring
Extra thick training pants
Lysol wipes
Kitchen timers
Dum Dum lollipops


Posted by Julie at 11:29 AM // Noah , Thoughts // 3 Comments

Boy Talk

Monday, May 11, 2009

Hope you all had a good Mother's Day. I love being a mom. I love that I get to be a mom to two sweet boys. Even though I think I could make a pretty darn cute hair bow, I think God really gave me a special gift when he gave me my boys. (((Sigh contentedly)))IMG_1245   
This little boy is really working hard on choosing to listen and obey. "I will obey, Mama." While he tends to be a little bit of a wanderer, I'm seeing a lot of effort on his part lately. "I won't run away, Mama." He is working really hard on potty training too, and I am so proud of him. It makes my heart so full when I see him starting to take his big brother role seriously. I received some good advice from my aunt (who has boys). She told me to nurture his "big brother instinct". Instead of pushing Caleb away when he comes near his toys, he is learning how to take care of his little brother and help him find his own toy to play with. When I dropped the boys off at my sister's to get my hair done today, I told him to be good and help take care of baby Caleb. He reassured me, "I will take care of him," and then added, "I will hold him." It was very sweet, but scared me a little because he usually holds him by his neck! It's also fun to see the admiration in Caleb's eyes too, as he crawls around after Noah wherever he goes. I pray that God will continue to bless their relationship, and that their bond will grow strong as the years go by.
Posted by Julie at 4:39 PM // Caleb , Noah , Thoughts // 1 Comments

Whichway?

Sunday, April 19, 2009

After I put Caleb down for the night, Noah and I headed out to the grocery store.  I still try to squeeze in some one on one time with him whenever I can.  After getting what we needed, driving home, and putting things away, I started to get him into him jammies and ready for bed.

Me:  "Thanks for going to Safeway with me Buddy.  You were a good helper."

Noah:  "I don't like Safeway."

Me:  "You don't?  What store do you like?  Which one is your favorite?"

Noah:  "I like.... (thinking)... Wrongway!


Posted by Julie at 9:17 PM // Noah // 0 Comments

Just for pretend...

Friday, April 17, 2009

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Noah has discovered the wonderful world of "make believe" and is giving tours daily.  See that collapsible pole?  That's his gas pump.  He's "fueling" his bike.  It also doubles as a fishing pole.  Wanna touch his fish?  You can poke it right in the eye if you want to!  See that couch cushion?  If he lifts up the front end, he can check the engine of his car.  "Engine makes cars go, Mama."  It's really fun watching him play these days... you never know what he'll think up next!
Posted by Julie at 7:54 PM // Noah // 0 Comments

Easter 2009

Monday, April 13, 2009

Lots of pictures to share.  Hope your Easter was filled with good food, family, friends, and the hope of our Savior.  IMG_0844IMG_0837IMG_0865IMG_0824IMG_0852IMG_0853IMG_0982IMG_0983IMG_1004IMG_1021IMG_1065IMG_1054IMG_0973
Posted by Julie at 8:14 PM // Caleb , Family , Holidays , Noah , Us // 1 Comments

All about Noah

Wednesday, April 08, 2009

Just the stuff I want to remember about Noah at 2 years 10 months...

What he says:
"Come show me Mama, come show me my train tracks!" meaning Come look at my train tracks. 

Thinking of the sweet little girl in his music class going through chemotherapy who we pray for, "Where any hair go Mama?"

And my favorite, "I like more apple pie" pointing to the pineapple.  

What he is learning:
Where the sun goes at nighttime, and where the moon goes in the daytime.

How to pray for people.

Why he must not try to push Caleb down when he tries to stand up. 

How to ask for a toy instead of grab.  "Fweese hab it?"

The difference between a city bus and a school bus.

That his birthday is coming soon (he does not like it when people sing happy birthday to anyone)

What God made on each day of creation.

Mommy and Daddy's real names. 

How streets are made of asphalt.

What happens when a car gets a flat tire (hypothetically, not from actual experience).  

What he is singing:
Where is thumbkin, where is thumbkin?  (of course exchanging the th for an f and omitting the mb all together making everyone in earshot at the grocery store snicker)

What he loves:
Music class
Miss Mary Ellen's class
The park
Veggie Tales
Making Caleb laugh and waking him up from a nap 
Daddy's old Micro Machines
Orange Juice
Couch cushion forts
Visiting his grandparents' houses
Vanilla ice cream with chocolate milk (sauce)
Construction vehicles and trailers 
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Posted by Julie at 2:13 AM // Noah , Thoughts // 1 Comments

Questions Without Answers

Thursday, April 02, 2009

Noah will be three (wow!) at the end of May, and he has definitely jumped head first into the "questioning phase" of life.  I try to be very patient with him, and satisfy his curiosity as best I can (and know that he is not trying to be really repetitive and annoying).  But sometimes, I simply don't know what to say.

Sitting at the kitchen table, eating breakfast together:

Noah: What are you doing Mama?
Me: Eating cheerios with blackberries.  
Noah: What do blackberries do Mama?
Me:  Umm... they sit in my bowl waiting for me to eat them up!
Noah:  What's the bowl do Mama?  
Me:  Dear Lord, give me patience.  

Later that day at the gas station:

Noah: What's daddy doing Mama?
Me: He's washing the windshield.  
Noah:  What's the windshield do Mama?
Me: ( Ahhhhh!!!! )  Buddy, some things don't DO anything, they just ARE.

And on and on we go... and somehow, I love him more and more each day.  



Posted by Julie at 7:29 PM // Noah // 0 Comments

Ice Cream

Friday, March 20, 2009

IMG_0631Since the temperature outside has been creeping up, there is a sense of urgency to enjoy being outside while we still can! Good day for another visit to the train park, and for an ice cream cone too.
Posted by Julie at 5:04 PM // Fun , Noah // 1 Comments

Just to see you smile...

Wednesday, March 18, 2009

Noah has recently discovered something about his little brother.  He can make him laugh!  Caleb has one of those really satisfying giggles that makes you want to laugh too.  So when Noah discovers some kind of silly face or nonsense noise that makes Caleb laugh, he will do it over and over and over again.  It's really sweet to see them interact this way.  All part of the brotherhood bond I think.  

I'm still amazed at how different these boys are.  Sometimes I think they look alike, but I found these pictures taken in the same place and around the same age (Noah is about six weeks older) and I think that other than their fair skin, blonde hair, and blue eyes, they do look very different.  
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Posted by Julie at 8:34 AM // Caleb , Noah // 7 Comments

Little Buddies

Thursday, March 12, 2009

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So fun to see these boys experience the blessing of "cousinship".  Thanks for sharing your backyard with us this morning!
Posted by Julie at 1:36 PM // Family , Noah // 1 Comments

Train Park

Friday, February 20, 2009

It felt so good to enjoy the 70 degree weather at the train park today.  Laney and Noah played on the playground and watched the train pass by before they took a ride on it themselves.  IMG_0643When it came time for the train to leave the station, Noah was a little nervous, so Laney held him extra close. Such a good cousin she is. IMG_0657 Caleb looked cute enough to eat in his little train hat... BG's shoulder was perfect for teething. All four top teeth are trying to come through at the same time! Poor baby.IMG_0653
Posted by Julie at 10:06 PM // Caleb , Fun , Noah // 2 Comments

Bedtime Routine

Friday, February 13, 2009

Noah has become an expert when it comes to stretching his bedtime routine out as long as possible. Here's a list of requests he will use on any given night: 
I need water. 
I need to go potty. 
I need to go potty again. 
Mama read you a book. 
Read it again Mama? 
Mama pray you. 
Pray again Mama? 
Mama lay you. 
Mama sing you a song. 
I need a different pillow. 
Where's baby Cah-Chi? 
I say night night to Daddy. 
I need music on. 
I need my puppy. 
I need my other puppy. 
Mama...ummm.... I hungry... (and round and round we go) IMG_0544
Posted by Julie at 8:38 PM // Noah // 2 Comments

Noahisms

Wednesday, February 04, 2009

Just a couple little conversations I want to remember...

Me:  Soon as we all get dressed we can go to BG's house.  
(Noah gets his jeans and shoes on, I get my shoes on, and put Caleb in a clean outfit)
Noah:  Okay!  Let's go BG's house!  Everybody has a dress on!

Noah wakes up and calls from his room... "It's morning!  It's morning!  It's morning Mama!"
So I go in to get him, and I say, "It is morning little buddy.  How are you?" He says right back to me, "I'm two Mama" and tries to hold up two little fingers.  

Posted by Julie at 4:39 PM // Noah // 2 Comments

Caleb- 6 months

Saturday, January 24, 2009

Caleb will be six months on Monday!  We're still trying to get him healthy (respiratory stuff), and when I took him to the pediatrician last Wednesday, he had two ear infections.  Despite all this, he remains smiley and content.  He is rolling all over the place, has two teeth, and weighs 19 lbs.  We adore this little guy!IMG_0350IMG_0352
Posted by Julie at 4:13 PM // Caleb , Noah // 1 Comments

Overheard...

Monday, January 19, 2009

"Baby Cah-Chi, don't say mine.  Not kind words."

(Baby Cah-Chi = Baby Caleb)
Posted by Julie at 4:43 PM // Caleb , Noah // 2 Comments

Mix Talked Up

Wednesday, January 07, 2009

"I need my beltseat on Mama."  (seat belt)

"I in tuhbath Mama."  (bathtub)

"I need by brushtoof Mama." (toothbrush)

Pointing to my face... "Mama bryowe right here."  (eyebrow)


Also, the newest word added to his vocab...

"Nope."  

As in "Are you gonna obey Mama and hold still for your cuthair, I mean, haircut buddy?"

"Nope."
Posted by Julie at 10:40 AM // Noah // 2 Comments

Moving Target

Monday, December 22, 2008

I have really been trying to take pictures of the boys together, in the same shot, but it is almost impossible to get them both looking at the camera!  One of the boys holds perfectly still, staring into my lens, and the other has the never ending wiggles.  Can you tell which one is which?

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Posted by Julie at 10:36 AM // Caleb , Noah // 5 Comments

All the right words...

Friday, December 12, 2008

IMG_9924In the past week, Noah has had a few successful attempts on the potty. I'm hesitant to actually work hard to train him right now and have just been letting him take the lead, as we are traveling soon to my cousin's wedding and will be stopping by "the happiest place on earth" which does not sound like a happy place to take a newly potty trained toddler. But I have been telling him to tell me if he needs to go, and he always reminds me, "Don't go in diaper!" as if this is the most ridiculous idea he's ever heard. Then two minutes later, someone stinks. Oh well.
Posted by Julie at 12:30 PM // Noah // 1 Comments

Backseat Driver

Wednesday, December 10, 2008

This is the constant chatter I endure from the driver's seat whenever we go somewhere.

Ah go Beegee house (my mom).  

Ah go Cosco.

Ah turn round.

Ah back up.

Ah go O'donalds. 

Ah go Bompa's opfice (Nana and Bompa's office).  

Ah go mall... play.  

Ah go dif way (pointing out his window).

Ah go dat way.

Ah go chuch... see Cimis lights (christmas lights)

Ah go walk... didi (stroller).  

Ah see track-tur (tractor).  

Ah go pahwk (park by our house).  

Ah go pahwk... diffwent one... pahwk (park we don't go to as often).  

Ah see mailman.

Ah see trashtruck.  

Ah get Arnin (pick up Aunt Erin at her house).

Ah ride choo-choo train.  

Ah open nindow (window).  

Honestly, at this point I turn on Veggie Tales praise CD (also kind of annoying).  Explaining why we can't go all these places makes me weary!


Posted by Julie at 7:55 AM // Noah // 4 Comments

Cousin Love

Friday, November 28, 2008

You'd never guess it by looking at these pictures, but these two can really bug each other.  When it all comes down, they really do love each other!

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Posted by Julie at 9:46 PM // Family , Noah // 4 Comments

You're Welcome Trash Truck!

Monday, November 24, 2008

Noah and I had a little conversation this morning that went a little something like this:

History:  Sometimes I send Noah to his room to read books in bed before nap time.  It helps him settle down, and I like to encourage "independent playtime".  A few weeks ago, I went to his room to tell him it was time to put the books away and go to sleep, and I saw that he had ripped his beloved car book (Richard Scarry's Cars and Trucks and Things That Go) into about 100 pieces.  He knows not to rip books, and so we had a serious talk about what had just happened.  I told him that we would have to throw the Car book into the trash because he had ruined it.  This made us both very sad, and he went to back to bed with a heavy heart and some tears.  After the nap, the book was not mentioned.

Until today:

Noah:  Mimi, I wah leed cah book.  (I want to read Car book)

Me:  Buddy, remember you ripped the car book and we had to throw it in the trash?

Noah goes over to the kitchen trash can and starts to look for the Car book.  

Me:  Noah, it's gone.  (Sadly) The car book went into the big garbage barrel and the trash truck took it away.  (Thinking this will teach him to never, never rip books again)

Noah pauses and puts on his thinking face.  Then he runs to the front window where he watches the trash truck every Wednesday and Saturday.  

He yells happily, "You're welcome trash truck!  See you later trash truck!"

End of conversation.  I don't think he was too heartbroken after all.   

Posted by Julie at 12:33 PM // Noah // 2 Comments

He Speaks

Friday, November 14, 2008

Noah's little phrases make me laugh.  Here's a couple of examples, followed by their translations.  


A la cah boodie.  (sounds Spanish)

Ah wah dif woh.  (sounds French)

Ho ju.   (sounds Korean)


The first one means, "I want to watch Car movie."

The second one is, "I want this one."

And the third either means, "Hold you" (which actually means hold me) or  "orange juice".  


It's so darn cute that I hesitate to correct him... But we all know that it's not so cute when he asks something of someone who doesn't speak "Noahese", and then he throws a fit because they have no idea what he is saying!
Posted by Julie at 11:53 PM // Noah // 1 Comments

Do What You Love...

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

IMG_9533...And love what you do.
Posted by Julie at 11:36 AM // Noah // 2 Comments

Ready to go...

Thursday, November 06, 2008

Caleb has been waking up a lot at night this week.  Last night after the boys were in bed, I went to bed too.  It was 9:00pm, which is gloriously early for me.  I just laid there and listened to my iPod (new Chris Tomlin!) and fell asleep.  Today we are hanging out at home, doing some laundry, cleaning up a bit, and of course, making new messes.  I've figured out that I recharge by staying home and being by myself (with the kids), and Noah really doesn't like staying at home at all.  Here's a conversation we just had out of the blue as we were lining up trucks:

Noah:  I ready go Mama.  

Me:   He is still in his jammie shirt and diaper.  Where do you want to go Buddy?

Noah:  Dadda's cah

Me:  Where do you want to go in Dadda's car?

Noah: Ummm... puts on his thinking face, eyes looking upward... Noah cahseat.

Me:  Where do you want to go once you are sitting in your carseat in Dadda's car?

Noah:  Ummmm.... thinking face again, then he lights up.... Cah Wash!!!

Translation:  I don't care where we go, just get me out of the house!
Posted by Julie at 10:52 AM // Noah // 3 Comments

Chickercheat!

Friday, October 31, 2008

IMG_9363 Isn't he the cutest little Lego boy you've ever seen?
Posted by Julie at 10:53 PM // Holidays , Noah // 4 Comments

Music Munchkins

Thursday, October 23, 2008

My mom signed Noah up for a music class at the multigenerational center nearby.  He has so much fun!  Actually, we both do!  My mom comes along to hold Caleb while Noah and I sing and play.  

IMG_9358IMG_9365 Noah and I pretending we are pieces of toast about to "pop" out of the toaster! IMG_9366 IMG_9369
Posted by Julie at 1:40 PM // Fun , Noah // 4 Comments

Poor Tractors!

Wednesday, October 08, 2008

Remember the part in the movie Cars where Mater and Lightning go "tractor tipping"?  Noah watched this movie for the first time yesterday.  He has always had a special place in his heart for tractors and couldn't help shedding a few tears when he saw how they were mistreated.  



(I know, its not nice to video your kids when they are crying!)
Posted by Julie at 11:54 AM // Noah // 8 Comments

Walking Buddies

Wednesday, September 24, 2008

I've always hated to exercise, but I've found that I don't mind walking.  I know it's not the world's best workout, but it does at least help tone the postpartum flubber.  Noah, Caleb and I have been waking up early to beat the heat.  We have a great urban fishing lake nearby, and we do a few laps around the lake and then hit the park on the way home.  Sometimes we meet my cousin Melissa and her baby Aaron there too (sorry if you read her blog too, as we are copycating each other).   IMG_0506 IMG_0507 IMG_0510As you can see, Noah was mad that we stopped to take a picture. Little stinker! He is SO two.
Posted by Julie at 9:42 AM // Caleb , Fun , Noah // 1 Comments

I'm not kidding...

Monday, September 22, 2008

Okay so I made my FIFTH pan of these brownies tonight!  I realized kind of last minute that I had signed up to bring dessert to Bible study tomorrow, and I had all the ingredients on hand.  Cory took some pictures of Noah "helping".  Thanks little buddy! IMG_9077 IMG_9083
Posted by Julie at 7:06 PM // Food , Noah // 8 Comments

Discovery

Sunday, September 21, 2008

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Posted by Julie at 4:10 PM // Caleb , Noah // 2 Comments

Look Alikes

Saturday, September 20, 2008

So many people have asked me if I think Noah and Caleb look alike, and I can't decide.  Sometimes I see resemblance in their expressions, and they do have similar coloring.  Most of the time I feel like they have their own distinct looks.  They do both like to sleep with their mouths open with pappys stuck to their chins!   P7220002 Noah (almost 2 months old) IMG_9043 Caleb (almost 2 months old)
Posted by Julie at 2:52 PM // Caleb , Noah // 3 Comments

About My Boys

Friday, September 12, 2008

The past six weeks have flown by, as they always do when I'm in a busy season.  Because I always want to remember what my boys were like at each stage of development, I thought I'd make note of what they are up to right now.  

Caleb is a sleeper.   He is a little over six weeks old, and he is still only awake for a few hours each day.  He wakes up usually once (sometimes twice) in the night to eat, and then returns to peaceful slumber.  He smiled at me for the first time last night, and man, was it ever a cute one!  Now he has us talking in a way to high-pitched voice, way too close to his face, trying to draw out another smile.  "Can you smile at mommy little guy?"  He is a good eater, and I'm looking forward to seeing his weight progress at his doctor's appointment in a couple weeks.  He is nice and chubby, and I love the way his eyes look when he wears blue.  

Noah is still loving his "Baby Cah-Chi".  Multiple times throughout the day he walks up to Caleb and says, "Hi Baby Cah-Chi!  Wah doonin?"  (Whatcha doin?)  Of course, Caleb is usually sound asleep.  He likes to kiss his head and give him "toe five".  Its just like giving "five" with  your hand, except foot to foot.  It's a Noah thing.  Noah is a smart cookie (of course his mother thinks so).  He can count to ten, sing the ABC's (but not for an audience), and recognizes all the letters and colors.  He is also learning to play the violin (just kidding, not that smart).  Almost all his sentences end in "right here!"  Like, "A cool (school) bus, Mimi!  Right here!"  Noah will imitate everything he hears, so we have to watch everything we say.  He is still in love with all things with wheels.  He amazes me by recognizing people's cars.  When we are driving, he will point out all the Honda Van's, Ford Mustangs, and Ford trucks because this is what our family members drive.  Sometimes he will watch the road in front of our house out his bedroom window for a long time, studying the cars that go by.  If you ask him a question, he will always say, "yah".  If he actually means yes, he will be more enthusiastic with his "yah!".  His favorite TV shows are Sesame Street and Curious George.  Hard to say, but I think his favorite book right now is Cars and Trucks and Things That Go.  His favorite foods are macaroni and cheese, any kind of fruit, and ketchup.  

My sleep tank may be a little empty, but my heart is so full.  I am blessed!
Posted by Julie at 11:14 AM // Caleb , Noah // 2 Comments

Big Boy Bed

Wednesday, September 10, 2008

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Guess who is sleeping in his big boy bed?  Noah!  Mom and Dad are so happy because now Caleb can sleep in the crib, and they can have their room all to themselves.  Even though Caleb wakes up once or twice in the night, it's nice not to hear every little fuss.  
Posted by Julie at 9:18 PM // Caleb , Family , Noah // 8 Comments

All kinds of sweetness...

Thursday, August 14, 2008

I love nights at home when our schedules line up and we all just get to be together with nothing to do.  Add in a nice summer storm, and the smell of homemade brownies...  IMG_8875 While I made these brownies, Noah entertained himself with my mixer (and wore one of Daddy's socks). IMG_8872 And Caleb worked on his tummy time... Such a sweet baby! IMG_8877
Posted by Julie at 9:04 PM // Caleb , Family , Noah , Recipes // 2 Comments

Beijing 08.08.08

Thursday, August 07, 2008

We are so excited about the olympics around here!  Check out Noah sporting his swim cap, just like Michael Phelps.  Actually, it's a swim diaper. Wrong end Noah! IMG_8867 IMG_8868
Posted by Julie at 9:26 AM // Noah // 6 Comments

Flying Solo (with lots of help)

Monday, August 04, 2008

IMG_8858 This afternoon we had a visit from my Aunt Debbe.  This is the boys' great aunt, and hopefully their future preschool teacher.  She brought over a yummy homemade pizza and cookies.  Thanks Aunt Deb!

We had a good day today even with Cory back at work.  I did get a shower in before Cory left this morning... I think this will be my new shower strategy.  
Posted by Julie at 6:10 PM // Caleb , Family , Noah // 2 Comments

Brothers

Friday, August 01, 2008

IMG_8848 Noah loves his Baby "Cah-Chi". I thought he would either be really jealous, or completely ignore him, but he is constantly asking to see the baby. Any time Caleb hiccups, cries, or opens his eyes, Noah thinks it's just the funniest thing and laughs hysterically. It'll be fun to watch them interact even more as Caleb gets older.  So far, I feel like Caleb is an "easier" baby than Noah was.  But it definitely adds another element of difficulty to have to protect Caleb from the ever eager two year old.  
Posted by Julie at 2:03 PM // Caleb , Noah // 5 Comments

Family of Four

Wednesday, July 30, 2008

Cory and I agree that today we finally feel a little bit "recovered".  I'm so glad he has the week off to help us out around the house!  I'm beginning to feel like my body is well on the road to healing, and even got out of the house for a little bit today to run some errands with my mom.  Noah needed his haircut, and we went out to lunch at Paradise Bakery for my favorite turkey and cranberry sandwich.  We are so glad that we decided to go ahead and attempt the VBAC.  Our birth experience was wonderful, and we saw evidence of God's protective and loving hand in it all.  We are so in love with our little family of four!  
Posted by Julie at 9:45 PM // Caleb , Family , Noah // 4 Comments

Meet Baby Caleb

Sunday, July 27, 2008

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Posted by Julie at 11:28 AM // Caleb , Noah // 9 Comments

Jumping Beans

Thursday, July 24, 2008

Kaelyn and my mom have been taking Noah to a class appropriately called "Jumping Beans" on Thursday mornings, and then out to lunch. It is such a nice break for me, and he always comes home worn out and ready for a nice nap. Noah looks forward to his time each week with "BeeGee" and loves to ride in her van as she has a DVD player built in.  Here are some pictures from today's obstacle course.

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Posted by Julie at 8:23 PM // Noah // 1 Comments

Enjoying Summer!

Monday, June 30, 2008

Well not so much the weather, but at least the food! IMG_8786 IMG_8785
Posted by Julie at 6:21 PM // Food , Noah // 1 Comments

kgphotography.net

Thursday, June 26, 2008

My friend Kelly's website

N&L 050-4N&L 373-2N&L 184-3 N&L 095-3 N&L 345-2
Posted by Julie at 1:24 PM // Noah // 5 Comments

Gone Fishing

Saturday, June 21, 2008

IMG_0860 Noah had his first boat ride and fishing expedition today on Show Low Lake with his daddy and grandpa. He loved driving the boat, and then he helped reel in two fish in the first five minutes!  We told him to touch the fish and feel how slimy it was, so he poked the fish right in the eye.  IMG_0872
Posted by Julie at 2:54 PM // Noah // 1 Comments

Making progress...

Tuesday, June 10, 2008

With 7-8 more weeks to go until our new little one makes his way into the world, I am really trying to get everything ready before I'm too round to even get around.  I was remembering how excited and organized I was when we were getting Noah's nursery decorated and furnished.  I had taped out where his furniture would be situated around the room, and carefully selected all my favorite items from the Pottery Barn Kids catalog.  I know it's kind of goofy, but it helps me visualize!  
P1130042 P1130043While I am equally excited about this new baby, I don't have the time to be quite so intentional, but we are making way with our nursery and Noah's new room.  A new set of bunk beds are on their way and two matching quilts are ready to go.  I have ordered some wall letters to spell out the boys' names.  I tracked down the perfect diaper bag yesterday, so I can check that one off the list.  All of this preparation is keeping me busy, and in addition to this Noah and I have been having so much fun swimming almost every day.  I'm thinking the next eight weeks will be over before I know it at this pace!
Posted by Julie at 11:08 PM // Caleb , Noah // 4 Comments

Working up the courage...

Tuesday, June 03, 2008

This morning Noah and I headed over to San Tan Village for a little fun in the water.  We've been to a few of these little water parks in the past, and Noah has never been brave enough to even touch the water.  This time, he ventured out and let the water touch his toes... I'm not sure how he can resist. If there weren't so many other mom's there, I would've run through myself!

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Posted by Julie at 1:03 PM // Fun , Noah // 2 Comments

More Birthdays

Saturday, May 24, 2008

To celebrate Noah and Laney's birthdays, we got together with my family ate dinner at a classic pizza place... Organ Stop! This place is so cheesy, but the kids had a great time listening to the music and dancing around. It's one of those places I can handle about every three years I think! Everyone there either brought their kids, or is over the age of 60. IMG_0354 Noah and Laney blew out their candles on the cake as we sang Happy Birthday, or as Laney would say, "Appy Earthday!" IMG_8592 Noah even got some of his beloved orange tictacs from Aunt Melissa and Uncle Lee... IMG_8606 We gave Laney some cool shades for summer (notice the winter vest in May- Brrrr!)... IMG_8620 Since Noah can't eat cake because of the eggs, I made some fresh berry pies. Noah ate two slices!  I think this will be our tradition.  IMG_8627
Posted by Julie at 3:25 PM // Family , Noah // 2 Comments

My Little Mechanic

Thursday, May 15, 2008

This is what Noah does in the mornings to keep himself occupied while I'm gettting ready.  He uses the pointy end of a fine toothed comb to "fix" the bottom of the bathroom scale.  He loves all things tools. IMG_8556
Posted by Julie at 9:16 AM // Noah // 0 Comments

Games we play...

Thursday, May 08, 2008

The other day when Laney came over to play, she and Noah came up with a little game that kept them entertained for quite some time. It goes like this:
 Laney drops a block down Noah's shirt... IMG_8542 Noah wiggles until the block falls to the ground, and we all laugh. IMG_8546 Life is good. IMG_8548
Posted by Julie at 9:09 AM // Fun , Noah // 3 Comments

Taking it easy...

Thursday, April 24, 2008

IMG_8523 It's been a nice relaxing week around here. Can you tell? We've been playing outside, going to the park, watching movies, reading books, and meeting friends for lunch. Another good thing about this week... Cory found a device to childproof the pantry. Now I can make dinner without Noah scattering my 500 count package of napkins all over the kitchen. IMG_8512
Posted by Julie at 1:41 PM // Noah // 0 Comments

Obsession

Wednesday, April 16, 2008

Like a lot of little boys, Noah is obsessed with cars.  It is usually the last thing he talks about before he falls asleep, and the first word out of his mouth when he wakes up!  We stumbled upon one of Cory's erector sets from when he was a little guy, and once Noah saw the wheels mixed in with all the random parts, he knew it had something to do with a car and Cory had to put it together for him.  As Cory was patiently putting all the pieces in place, Noah kept shouting "Cah! Cah! CAHHH!"  I think Cory even asked me if I could please teach him a new word.  

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Posted by Julie at 3:10 PM // Noah // 0 Comments

Quirky Kid

Thursday, April 03, 2008

Noah is getting to a really fun age as he is starting to repeat back words as well as put together some of his own vocab.   Since I have decided that my blog is taking the place of a scrapbook for Noah, I wanted to make sure I put all the cute little things he does in writing.  In other words, this is probably more interesting to me that it is to you!

When he is finished eating, he will say "Ahhh Done!" and this includes whatever he happened to be chewing on at that moment, so out it comes.  

He is in love with all things cars (cahhs), tractors (twactows), and trucks (twucks).  He loves to drive around and point them all out to me.  It never gets old.  

He likes me to sing to him when I am changing his diaper, "Old MacDonald had a farm.  EIEIO. And on that farm he had a car.  EIEIO.  With a beep, beep, here and a..."  If I try to do animals, he will yell cahh! cahh!

He calls all fruit "appy" (apple).  

He is starting to notice opposites.  He will stand and say "up" and then sit and say "down" over and over again.  He will also close a door and say "close" and open it and say "opie".  

He loves to be outside.  He gets very excited whenever I am putting his shoes and hat on.  He usually cries when we pull into the garage as we are coming home from wherever.  Its like, oh not this place again!  Lets go somewhere else!

Being the advanced child that he is (ha, ha) he has already begun to throw tantrums like a two year old.  Yesterday, Safeway had the nerve to be out of car carts.  So Noah had to ride in a regular old cart, and screamed and fussed the entire 10 minutes I managed to grocery shop, telling everyone he saw "Cahh cahh (car cart)!" as if they would understand and help him out.  

He is one of those kids classified as a "climber".  He climbs out of his crib (pre-tent), up on his bookshelves (yes, they are bolted to the wall), up on the counter height kitchen table, and over the back of the couch.  

We have just begun to work of the concept of timeout, or rather staying in timeout.  It is usually needed for climbing, or ramming large toys into the furniture.  

When I put him down for a nap or at bedtime, he always asks to be rocked for a little bit before being put in the crib.  He plays with my hair, and with heavy eyes and long blinks, he talks about the people he knows and loves.  Just above a whisper, he goes through the list of names, "Yaney...BeeGee...Papaw...Kiki...Nana... Bompa... Dada..."

He still calls me, "Mimi".  

Reflecting on all the things that make Noah unique makes me so excited to see how our next little one will show his own personality too.  I thank God for little boys!


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Posted by Julie at 12:30 PM // Noah // 1 Comments

Noah's First Egg Hunt

Monday, March 24, 2008

IMG_0263 Here buddy, let me show you why you want to find eggs... Jelly Beans! IMG_0270 Now you've got the hang of it! IMG_0272 Next year Baby Aaron can join in the fun...
Posted by Julie at 1:28 PM // Holidays , Noah // 1 Comments

My Sweet Boy

Friday, March 21, 2008

IMG_8304 I love this goofy grin!
Posted by Julie at 2:36 PM // Noah // 0 Comments

Aunt JoAnne and Uncle Ben

Monday, February 25, 2008

IMG_7848 We had a great weekend celebrating Cory's birthday, and visiting with his Aunt JoAnne and Uncle Ben from Illinois. Noah is always ready to hand out kisses to willing recipients! Mmmmmmwwhhhaa! IMG_7846
Posted by Julie at 9:54 AM // Family , Fun , Noah // 1 Comments

Is this normal?

Friday, February 15, 2008

Sometimes Noah can really eat... This morning for breakfast, Cory gave him a banana and a piece of whole wheat toast with some juice.  "Ahhhhlllllll done!" he says.  Then I woke up (Cory and I take turns getting up with Noah and it was my morning to sleep in), and he asked for another piece of toast.  "Ahhhllllllll done!" he says and the toast is gone.  A half hour later, as I am making a raspberry jello salad for Cory's birthday dinner with my family tonight, he asks for some applesauce.  Two bowls of applesauce later, he says, "Mah?" (more).  I'm thinking he has had enough applesauce, so I give him a slice of cheese.  "Mah?" Hmmm.... no more cheese, how about some leftover roasted asparagus and red peppers from last night?  "Okey!" he says.  He polishes off the veggies, and says one more time, "Ahhhhllllll done!"  It's now 9:30am.  I understand that he is a growing boy, but he can really put the food away!

Here is the recipe for raspberry jello salad.  My adorable sister in law, Jenna, told me that she never knew a family with so many variations of jello salad.  We are a little retro like that!  

1 cup boiling water
1 small box of raspberry jello
1 cup applesauce
12 oz frozen raspberries (I buy the big bag of organic raspberries at Costco)

Dissolve the jello powder in the boiling water.  Stir in the applesauce, and then the raspberries.  Refrigerate at least four hours.  

Topping:  1 cup of sour cream mixed with 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows.  Make this a couple of hours before serving so that the marshmallows sweeten the sour cream.  My dad even likes this salad, and he hates sour cream in any other form!
Posted by Julie at 9:58 AM // Food , Noah , Recipes // 1 Comments

Mosquito's?

Thursday, February 14, 2008

IMG_8293Well, we don't have a mosquito problem, but we do have a problem with a certain little boy climbing out of his crib.  He discovered this new skill a couple of months ago, and we have been working on "staying in bed" ever since.  I finally decided to skip this battle for now, and just put up the tent (even though its not really my taste in decor).  Actually my mom decided it was a matter of safety, and bought it for him, but told me not to tell him it was from his beloved "BG" (beautiful grandma).  So Noah thinks the tent is great when he is not supposed to be sleeping, and he loves to make squishy faces in the netting.  At nap and bedtime, he greatly protests to being so confined.  Sorry buddy, its for your own good!
Posted by Julie at 10:59 AM // Noah // 1 Comments

Still Sick

Friday, February 01, 2008

IMG_8237So sad... but playing with kleenex and pretending to blow his nose does make him feel a little better.
Posted by Julie at 4:46 PM // Noah // 2 Comments

Show Low Fun

Sunday, January 27, 2008

We spent the weekend up in Show Low with some of Cory's family. I was expecting lots of snow and cold weather (Noah now owns some cold weather gear), but instead we had one beautiful sunny day, and the next a lazy rainy day. Noah loves the park in Nana and Grandpa's neighborhood, and is finally old enough to brave the big slide. IMG_0233Here he goes!IMG_0231So fun!!!IMG_0234Woah!!IMG_0235Grandpa took Noah for a nice wagon ride. IMG_7745
Posted by Julie at 11:15 AM // Family , Fun , Noah // 2 Comments

Say my name!

Thursday, January 24, 2008

One of the first words Noah could say was "Dada". I was pretty sure "Mama" would be soon to follow. Almost 8 months went by, and Noah still did not say my name. He could say lots of other people's names, and could say the word "Mama", but didn't use it to address his very own mother. In the last couple of weeks, he has finally started calling me "Mama". But actually it sounds more like "May-me" or sometimes, "Mimi". It is so sweet. I love it. It makes my heart swell, and it was worth the wait.
Posted by Julie at 7:28 PM // Noah // 1 Comments

Blast From the Past

Tuesday, January 22, 2008

IMG_8193I love introducing my childhood favorites to Noah. My mom bought him a Mary Rice Hopkins DVD for Christmas, and he watches it almost every day. The songs are so fun for me to hear again, and I not only remember all the words, but how it felt being a camper at Forest Home, where I first heard Mary Rice Hopkins. The outfits are totally 80's, and the kids in the videos are probably in their 30's now! Good stuff... By the way, we do own a big cushy couch, but sitting in a laundry basket is just so much more comfortable. Baby #2 update- We have a 3D ultra sound scheduled for the 30th of January. Baby #2 craves Taco Bell bean burritos, just like Noah did. However, Baby #2 also craves otter pops, even though it's the middle of winter. It must be toasty in there! Before we knew that Noah was a boy, we jokingly called him Jory (combination of Julie and Cory). Aunt Kaelyn suggested we call this baby Culie!
Posted by Julie at 7:10 PM // Noah // 0 Comments

Blue Hat, Green Hat

Saturday, January 12, 2008

One of Noah's favorite books right now is called Blue Hat, Green Hat, by Sandra Boynton. It is about a silly turkey who just can't seem to put his clothes on the right way. IMG_8131Sometimes reading books inspires us to do silly things too! IMG_8134(Sorry you all had to see him licking the bottom of his shoes... yuck)
Posted by Julie at 10:57 AM // Noah // 1 Comments

Big Brother!

Thursday, January 03, 2008

Doesn't he look so proud of his new title? That's right, Noah is going to be a big brother!IMG_0174We felt so blessed to be able to share our good news with our families this Christmas. I'm a little past two months along, and I'm feeling, well... how two months along usually feels! Some days are better than others... We just returned from a wonderful visit with my dad's family in southern California. We also got to celebrate Christmas there with my brother Jeff and sister-in-law Jenna.
Posted by Julie at 12:43 PM // Caleb , Noah // 7 Comments

Merry Christmas!

Thursday, December 27, 2007

Noah loved opening his presents.  His favorite thing was to tear the paper off in tiny little pieces.  He's learning how to ride his new red tricycle. 
Papaw steadied him as he tried to walk in Laney's new plastic pink furry high heels.  Oh boy...
Posted by Julie at 12:12 PM // Family , Holidays , Noah // 0 Comments