Izzos in Texas

Parks and such

2012-01-24T00:10:00.002-06:00

Having saved a whopping $250+ (it would be bragging if I gave the exact $$ savings) on our/my new Canon camera, I've been on a photography frenzy trying to make up for the day and half of not having my camera (returned to Best Buy on Wednesday and received from Amazon in less than 24 hours...that, my friends, is quality customer service!). By the way, I think Amazon should pay me for as much as I praise, thus advertising, their company.

We've been frequenting the park quite a bit over the past few days....Take a look...

Before we head to the park, how about a little snack?

Yummmm....

What's going on?

Bumble Bee riding with Daddy...Wait, did he just run 26.2 miles? Yes indeed he was at the park the day he ran a marathon...No biggie!

Paulie on the lady bug!

Yep, this park gives me panic attacks with the "advanced" climbing structures!

Crazy Slide!

Weeeeeee.....

Just in case you couldn't tell...Molly gets a kick out of swinging!

Weeeeee!!!!

Show us those teeth Miss Molly!!!

Random, but necessary...Tantrum #158! She was extremely upset that she could not hold all 8 crayons in one hand. Three words for ya...Use both hands! Toddlers....So irrational!

Paulie on the other hand....enjoyed his box train!

As well as his new fish puzzle...compliments of the Knepp Family (seriously, the giftcard is the gift that keeps on giving!)

Oh yeah, have I mentioned we started curling Molly's hair? Yep, next up are her eye lashes...Watch out Molly, beauty comes with a price!

Molly's working on her model pose! Look away Molly, Look away.

Makena looks so happy while Paulie look so confused. Makena kept saying, "Paulie let's get married!" I'm not sure he really knows what that entails...Then again, I'm not sure anyone does!

Hard at work with Daddy!

Catching up on her book club reading!

I must admit that I've got a great muse for my photography.

She kinda makes it impossible to take a bad photo!

Working on our loop-dee loos from Little Gym!

16 months...

And she has not outgrown the bouncy apparatus!

Perfect lighting and Perfect subject! Strike a pose Molly.

My handsome boy!

Like I said, my handsome boy! Goofy!

Awe....Brotherly love! I know they love each other, but why can't they show it more often?

Watch out, here she comes!

Getting Serious....

2012-01-14T22:48:00.001-06:00

About Photography! We finally purchased a SLR (I have no idea what that means...which tells you I've got a lot to learn) camera....YAY! We've been talking about it for about 4 months now and neither one of us really wanted to put in the effort to research, but we finally selected the Canon Rebel T3i. It's a bit overwhelming with all the cameras out there and all the acronyms, what do they all mean? But I can say that I LOVE having a fancy camera and the awesome pictures it takes. I'm still using the auto settings and probably will continue to do so until I learn more about the camera. The manual is 300 pages and I'm trying to actually read it, how much of it I will retain is another story but at least I'm actually attempting to get my moneys worth!

Here are just a few of the 200+ pictures I took today on our family excursion to the Children's Museum and then home again.

Molly's favorite part of the Tot Spot....Driving the Cars! Just like her brother.

Beep! Beep!

Reading a giant Hungry Catepillar book.

The "Mom stop, you are embarrassing me" Look! I have a feeling I'm going to be getting a lot of these looks in the next 18 years. Too bad Molly, I'm your mother and it's my job to embarrass you!

A boy on a bike is a boy on a mission!

Seriously? This camera is worth every dollar...

Molly has recently started teeth smiling and saying, "Cheese!" She's such a ham!

50 degrees...Who cares? This boy is drawn to any type of water....Bring it!

Focused!

Silly Paulie! He, too, loves hamming it up for the new camera.

Oohhh....Monochromatic...Ohh so serious!

Come to think of it, his car seat is the perfect place for me to snap a photo...He can't move and has no choice but to face forward!

Who is that hottie tottie washing my wheels?

Slam Dunkin'

Paulie are you hiding from me?

Silly Girl

2012-01-10T23:06:00.001-06:00

"Who wants honey in their tea?...Gotta love this new Keurig Poppa bought!"

"He loves me, he loves me not!"

"Okay, let me out! I promise I won't waste anymore kleenex!"

Daddy's Girl

2012-01-10T22:46:00.003-06:00

As much as it pains me, Molly is a Daddy's girl! And I will let him have it cause Paulie is a little bit of a Mama's boy lately...

I recently came across this list of 50 Rules for Dads of Daughters, created and posted by this guy. It's sweet and heartfelt. And worthy of a repost....(all content and photo credits can be found here)

1. Love her mom. Treat her mother with respect, honor, and a big heaping spoonful of public displays of affection. When she grows up, the odds are good she’ll fall in love with and marry someone who treats her much like you treated her mother. Good or bad, that’s just the way it is. I’d prefer good.

2. Always be there. Quality time doesn’t happen without quantity time. Hang out together for no other reason than just to be in each other’s presence. Be genuinely interested in the things that interest her. She needs her dad to be involved in her life at every stage. Don’t just sit idly by while she add years to her… add life to her years.

3. Save the day. She’ll grow up looking for a hero. It might as well be you. She’ll need you to come through for her over and over again throughout her life. Rise to the occasion. Red cape and blue tights optional.

4. Savor every moment you have together. Today she’s crawling around the house in diapers, tomorrow you’re handing her the keys to the car, and before you know it, you’re walking her down the aisle. Some day soon, hanging out with her old man won’t be the bees knees anymore. Life happens pretty fast. You better cherish it while you can.

5. Pray for her. Regularly. Passionately. Continually.

6. Buy her a glove and teach her to throw a baseball. Make her proud to throw like a girl… a girl with a wicked slider.

7. She will fight with her mother. Choose sides wisely.

8. Go ahead. Buy her those pearls.

9. Of course you look silly playing peek-a-boo. You should play anyway.

10. Enjoy the wonder of bath time.

11. There will come a day when she asks for a puppy. Don’t over think it. At least one time in her life, just say, “Yes.”

12. It’s never too early to start teaching her about money. She will still probably suck you dry as a teenager… and on her wedding day.

13. Make pancakes in the shape of her age for breakfast on her birthday. In a pinch, donuts with pink sprinkles and a candle will suffice.

14. Buy her a pair of Chucks as soon as she starts walking. She won’t always want to wear matching shoes with her old man.

Photo Credit :: Danielle Rocke Toews

15. Dance with her. Start when she’s a little girl or even when she’s a baby. Don’t wait ‘til her wedding day.

16. Take her fishing. She will probably squirm more than the worm on your hook. That’s OK.

17. Learn to say no. She may pitch a fit today, but someday you’ll both be glad you stuck to your guns.

18. Tell her she’s beautiful. Say it over and over again. Someday an animated movie or “beauty” magazine will try to convince her otherwise.

19. Teach her to change a flat. A tire without air need not be a major panic inducing event in her life. She’ll still call you crying the first time it happens.

20. Take her camping. Immerse her in the great outdoors. Watch her eyes fill with wonder the first time she sees the beauty of wide open spaces. Leave the iPod at home.

21. Let her hold the wheel. She will always remember when daddy let her drive.

22. She’s as smart as any boy. Make sure she knows that.

23. When she learns to give kisses, she will want to plant them all over your face. Encourage this practice.

24. Knowing how to eat sunflower seeds correctly will not help her get into a good college. Teach her anyway.

25. Letting her ride on your shoulders is pure magic. Do it now while you have a strong back and she’s still tiny.

26. It is in her nature to make music. It’s up to you to introduce her to the joy of socks on a wooden floor.

27. If there’s a splash park near your home, take her there often. She will be drawn to the water like a duck to a puddle.

28. She will eagerly await your return home from work in the evenings. Don’t be late.

29. If her mom enrolls her in swim lessons, make sure you get in the pool too. Don’t be intimidated if there are no other dads there. It’s their loss.

30. Never miss her birthday. In ten years she won’t remember the present you gave her. She will remember if you weren’t there.

31. Teach her to roller skate. Watch her confidence soar.

32. Let her roll around in the grass. It’s good for her soul. It’s not bad for yours either.

33. Take her swimsuit shopping. Don’t be afraid to veto some of her choices, but resist the urge to buy her full-body beach pajamas.

34. Somewhere between the time she turns three and her sixth birthday, the odds are good that she will ask you to marry her. Let her down gently.

35. She’ll probably want to crawl in bed with you after a nightmare. This is a good thing.

36. Few things in life are more comforting to a crying little girl than her father’s hand. Never forget this.

37. Introduce her to the swings at your local park. She’ll squeal for you to push her higher and faster. Her definition of “higher and faster” is probably not the same as yours. Keep that in mind.

38. When she’s a bit older, your definition of higher and faster will be a lot closer to hers. When that day comes, go ahead… give it all you’ve got.

39. Holding her upside down by the legs while she giggles and screams uncontrollably is great for your biceps. WARNING: She has no concept of muscle fatigue.

40. She might ask you to buy her a pony on her birthday. Unless you live on a farm, do not buy her a pony on her birthday. It’s OK to rent one though.

41. Take it easy on the presents for her birthday and Christmas. Instead, give her the gift of experiences you can share together.

42. Let her know she can always come home. No matter what.

43. Remember, just like a butterfly, she too will spread her wings and fly some day. Enjoy her caterpillar years.

44. Write her a handwritten letter every year on her birthday. Give them to her when she goes off to college, becomes a mother herself, or when you think she needs them most.

45. Learn to trust her. Gradually give her more freedom as she gets older. She will rise to the expectations you set for her.

46. When in doubt, trust your heart. She already does.

47. When your teenage daughter is upset, learning when to engage and when to back off will add years to YOUR life. If you succeed in doing this, tell me how.

48. Ice cream covers over a multitude of sins. Know her favorite flavor.

49. This day is coming soon. There’s nothing you can do to be ready for it. The sooner you accept this fact, the easier it will be.

50. Today she’s walking down the driveway to get on the school bus. Tomorrow she’s going off to college. Don’t blink.

Post Christmas in FL

2012-01-04T22:00:00.000-06:00

As if the excitement of Christmas wasn't enough to keep Paulie happily entertained....He pestered us every day all day as to when we were going to Florida to see Abby and Zach! Paulie was SO excited to get on a plane to visit his extended family, I think maybe even more excited than he was for Christmas!

Upon arrival Molly was thrilled with all the toys to play with...She probably thought it was Christmas morning all over again!

Well it kind of was like Christmas all over again with all the additional presents we opened.

Kim may dislike me for posting this picture...but it's one of the few I have from our trip that shows her belly! She has less than 4 weeks to go until her due date and she's hanging in there. We continue to pray that Baby Izzo stays put until Stephen is home from work.

Grandma and Poppa have a fancy TV and some shows are in 3D! This advanced technology was not lost on Paulie...

We went to Atlantic Beach two days in a row. The weather was amazing and Paulie even went in the ocean for a dip! He's crazy!

Hi Molly! Yep, she dipped her toes in the water too!

Group Shot...Minus Brian, Paul, Amy and Abby! Oh what a surprise Paulie is half naked in his underwear.

Stephen was showcasing his bike skills. Not that Abby needed any pointers, she's a pro!

"Paulie, you are out too far! Please come back in!"

As you can see from the background, Paulie did not listen! Thank you Anne Marie for keeping tabs on Paulie...He's got no fear, that kid!

Nothing like a little beach breeze to mess up her comb over!

Awwww....Zach is Molly's watch dog and kept close tabs on her at all times! Big HUG!

What a sweet picture! (Even if it is forced!)

We were so disappointed to find that one of our favorite places was closed down. So disappointed in fact we spent a good 20 minutes outside mourning....And taking pictures of each other!

Three Amigos!

Molly: "Hey guys, what for me!"

What a great photo of the Grandma and Poppa with their grandkids! Amazingly every one is looking at the camera AND smiling....WOW!

Paulie's turn with the camera! CHEESE!

CHEESE Zachary!

They look like a bunch of caged animals! A cute bunch!

Awww...Pretty girl! She was quite the ham this day!

Fun on the decorated jaguar!

More fun!

My sweet little man! New Year's Eve Party.

Birthday Boy! (Paulie took this artistic photo) I think Stephen was going for the "Seriously I'm 30" look!

Make a wish!

Stephen got a Monte Blanc pen for his 30th! I think he likes it. It goes without saying, you know you are getting old when you are excited about a really expensive pen!

Kim and Abby really out did their selves with this New Year's Eve Pinata! It is a family tradition of Kim's to make and destroy a pinata on NYE. I'd just like to say that the Turner family might have the most holiday traditions of any other family I know....I want to be a part of their family! I would envy Stephen and Kim's offspring cause they are gonna have one heck of a fun mama!!

Paulie was really excited about the pinata! And Zach was sure to practice his duck and "get the heck out of the way" move!

Oh look it's Rudolph!

Did someone say Minute to Win it? (Amy did a fabulous job putting together some fun NYE games!)

I took this one...After I realized I needed to shut one eye and hold popsicle stick with my molars...Oops, I just gave away my secret! (I can't help but laugh at how it looks like Kathy is lighting a cigarette!...Oh that Kath, always lighting up!)

Molly was bright eyed and bushy tailed the next day!

So we went to the beach...Again. She loved it!

It is only fitting that she be holding a NYE clapper...aka Annoying noise maker but tolerable cause it keeps the kids happy and quiet!

Close-up! Yep, he still drools when he gets excited!

It didn't take long before Molly ditched her shoes and socks....letting her dogs breath and enjoy the wet sand!

Abby and Brian!

Hey Good Lookin'!

Wow! Once again, we are all looking at the camera...This might just be our 2012 Christmas Card!

We took about 20 of these pictures and Molly is poised and smiling in every single one! Hurry...Quick...Let's book our family photo session before it's too late!

Paulie poised and relaxing in front of the 10+ bags of Bamboo.

Zoo Trip 2012! Ya'll know how much we love zoos so our vacay would not be complete without a visit to the Jax Zoo. Look at these two monkeys!

Good thing they have their cousin Abby to keep them in check!

We tried to recreate this.

So long Florida Peeps! Thank you for an awesome vacation! See you in one month for the BC Marathon. It's so nice to leave knowing we'll be returning soon. LOVE YOU ALL!

Twas the night before...

2012-01-04T21:31:00.001-06:00

Not a creature was stirring not even a mouse...Or an excited 3 year old little boy! As in many other households Christmas was much anticipated in the Texas Izzo household. And this was officially the first year that Paulie got it! How much he got it is unknown, but he definitely understood that Santa Claus was eventually going to bring him some very fun toys! No matter how many times I told him, I don't think it really sunk in that it was Jesus' birthday and we are to be celebrating him not Paulie. (I'll keep working on it) Also, did he really get that Henry the Elf visited us daily to keep tabs on Paulie's behavior and would report all good and bad happenings to Santa? No probably not. Evidence of this was the several time outs he received for throwing his dinner or pushing his sister or splashing water on Daddy because he didn't want to take a bath...But who is really keeping score? (Obviously not Santa cause this kid his fair share of gifts!) Okay, in all seriousness Paulie and Molly were nice children and their presents were well deserved! Most surprising is that Paulie still remembers that Daddy got a wallet for Christmas and Mommy got a new hat! (What a special boy we've been given! Thank you Jesus!)

Paulie: "Okay, does Santa really need all these cookies?" Me: "Yes, but the reindeer probably don't need all those carrots, so help yourself!"

"WOW, it's really happening...Christmas Day has arrived!"

Paulie: "Santa came Molly! And look at all the presents!"

Molly: "Oh Okay, but I just want to finish my bottle of milk! Any cookies left?"

Molly: "Thank you Knepp Family for my cool ride. FYI, By no means do I support drinking and driving!"

Soccer Goal! SCORE!

Molly got her very own ball! Yay!

While gathering her presents Molly stopped to notice a new ornament on the tree! Only a 15 month old would stop to do such a thing...Certainly not busy Paulie!

After half opening Molly's present from Santa, he moves on to open his vacuum gift from Grandma and Poppa!

Power Tools just like Daddy! Well, almost...

Lovin' her new rocking horse!

Hooray, Paulie got his Long Fire Truck from Santa! And let me tell you Santa really rolled out the red carpet on this one cause it is one heck of a fire truck!

38 Screws! That's how many d@mn screws came with this "toy"! In this pic, I'm on screw #30. Molly says, "Hurry up Mom! I'm ready to play already!"

Scrooge! What gives Molly? Did Santa forget to bring you your Barbie Dream house?

"Hold on Molly, I've got to test the cruise control on this beast!"

Lining up the jigsaw...Watch out Daddy, you are about to get sawed in half!

Did I mention that Molly loves her rocking horse? And it's PINK!

I think Paul has me beat with this "toy" (Fire Station) with over 50+ screws! I didn't really count but anything that comes with color coded sets of screws is BIG TIME! Geez, Santa really knows how to pick em doesn't he?

Christmas 2011, you rocked it! Thank you so very much for all the many blessings we look forward to seeing Christmas 2012 in 365 days....(well as of now it's only 361 days, but who's counting? Not me!)

Dailiness

2012-01-04T20:52:00.003-06:00

The days leading up to Christmas were filled with sweet nothings. We enjoyed our time together as a family of four. Daddy was off from work, Paulie was on school break, and we didn't have any real plans and we enjoyed the dailiness of our everyday lives. I received the book, "Mitten Strings to God" for Christmas and the author discusses the importance of living in the moment and not always looking forward to the next big event. This is no new struggle, but yet it does take some practice to fully engage in the here and now and appreciate the dailiness of our lives. This blog may make it seem as though my live is just one event after another but most of my truly blessed moments are not usually captured on film...Such as Paulie's funny conversations he has with me we are driving around in the car. Or when Paulie and Molly are sharing toys and playing together quietly. Or when Paulie runs into my arms because he's just went potty. Or Molly and Paulie splashing and laughing in the bathtub together. Or when Molly falls asleep in my arms and her little hand grasps the neck of my shirt. There are many of these moments in our lives and yet we don't see them! Or rather we don't take the time to breath in the sweetness. (*Deep Breathe....Awwww....Smells good doesn't it)

Guess who is officially a size 3 and able to wear her squeaky shoes?!....Mommy! Just kidding.

Guess who found the cubby hole in the media sofa? And all the remotes?

"Here Molly, Let me lick your face!"

Molly just loves her red and white Christmas Hat!

She also loves her brother's Train Conductor Hat and Whistle!

Baking some sugar cookies and making soup!

Do you want some cookie with your sprinkles?

"Oh Henry, you silly elf! Of course we will make some cookies for you and Santa!"

Parktime!

"Hi Paulie, Are you suppose to be using the camera?"

Nice clarity on this photo Paulie!

Yep, it got cold here in TX! And nope, it did not stop us (them) from going outside!

"Again, are you suppose to be using that camera? Second, is my hat on straight?"

Silly Elf

2011-12-20T23:34:00.000-06:00

Our little elf, Henry, arrived about a week ago and he's quite a mischievous little guy! He can be found hanging from the Christmas Tree, Curtains, and Nativity Scenes. He also likes to eat stale gingerbread house candy! Not sure if Paulie is fully convinced this little guy flies to see Santa every night as he tonight he said to me, "Where are you going to put Henry tonight?" For now it's a fun little game to find Henry each morning and to talk and read stories about him, but it's not really working as a good behavior motivator. Don't get me wrong Paulie has been an exceptionally good boy these last few days but I don't think it has anything to do with the elf! However, I look forward to many years with Henry and am excited to start a new Izzo Family tradition.

And here's our Christmas Tree! A string of lights is out and I've painstakingly tested each bulb and God help me can't figure out where the problem lies....On a positive note we have yet to break an ornament! (Oh wait, Paul broke a bulb while decorating...to which Paulie totally called him out, "Daddy broke a ball, Daddy broke it, Daddy why did you break a ball, don't break any more balls Daddy, You need to be more careful and not break any balls!" Nothing like a three year to reprimand you during the holiday festivities. Paulie's little friend Makena came over and promptly tried to unwrap the candy canes and was about to take a bite when Paulie said, "No Makena, those are not to eat just for declaration!" Ha! You make me so proud Paulie!

One tradition I'm not so sure about is Gingerbread House decorating. Correction....Decorating is okay, it's the actual making of the Gingerbread house that I don't care for! After one failed attempt at Royal Icing, I threw in the towel and bought a G-bread house kit from Target. Then I Elmer Glued that sucker together! It isn't as though we are going to eat the thing. Does anyone ever eat the Gingerbread House? Speaking of eating....I've been able to stall Paulie for yet another year. I told him not to eat the supplied candy as it was rock hard and would break his teeth. So far he's only after the sprinkles AND believe you me those things are full of sugar! The kid went nuts after just a few wet fingers full of sprinkles!

And just why are we decorating our Gingerbread house at 7am????

Santa Baby...Cry Baby that is!

2011-12-20T23:25:00.000-06:00

Paulie was excited to see Santa Claus again this year. He started talking about the big guy way back in November (doesn't seem like that long ago!) so about a week into December I decided we'd go see Santa at the Memorial City Mall. Paulie was excited...reindeer antlers & red sweater....he was ready! What he wasn't ready for was Molly's sudden outburst as soon as I set her on Santa's lap. Molly is such a chill little girl, I wasn't anticipating such emotion but she was NOT Santa's biggest fan. Kind of reminds me of this little dude. So while Molly was in full blown hysterics Paulie just stared at her in confusion ("Why are you ruining this for me?"). Finally I told him to do what he does best and ignore Molly. "Just look at the camera Paulie" and this is what I got...

Poor Molly! Somehow a crying little girl does not make for a good Christmas card...It's just not cute or funny...Pathetic is more like it! And Poor Paulie, he waited so long for this moment....At least he got to tell Santa he wanted a LONG Firetruck. Oh and not to fret, he's since seen and sat on Santa 5 or 6 times!

Maybe next year everyone will LOVE Santa...Maybe next year!

Christmas Cuties

2011-12-10T22:24:00.001-06:00

I think it goes unsaid that every parent thinks their kids are the best. Well there isn't a day that goes by that I don't think to myself, "Do all kids do this to their parents?" And by "this" I mean many different things...such as...Melt my heart, act super cute, amaze me with their athletic abilities, amaze me with how smart they are....drive me bonkers, put me into a panic attack at least once a day, test my patience....Good and not so good, these two are mine and I love them so very much!

One of my more creative, engaging moments....I made a bus, minivan, tractor trailer truck (it's a multi facetted box) out of a huge box. Paulie is trying to invite Molly into the box, but she wanted NOTHING to do with it!

In fact, Molly was quite perplexed as to why the others were having so much fun. There isn't much Molly doesn't like...but small confined places is one of them. Oh and bubbles, she is petrified of bath bubbles!

Early Morning with Daddy! Surprisingly, I was awake to capture the moment.

Waiting to see Paulie in his school Christmas Program. I know I'm bias, but Molly is so unbelievably adorable. She's really into twisting her tongue lately....They say it's hereditary...Silly girl, just like her Mama!

The morning of his school's Christmas Program...Yeah, he's pretty freakin' adorable too!

Paulie's class sang Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star, Little Drummer Boy and Happy Birthday Jesus! Most of the kids in his class were like deer in headlights looking so lost up there on stage. Paulie was all smiles when he spotted both his parents in the crowd.

We met in Paulie's classroom for some cookies and juice afterwards....He was so proud!

Molly is in HEAVEN playing with all the toys while Paulie is in school. This is a much coveted toy that she feels pretty special to be riding!

Park Time with Daddy! Paul rode the bike to our old playground with both kids in the trailer...First time ever! They did great and Molly loves stairs and slides.

A little out of focus, but funny look! Molly has this funny look where she furrows her brow and looks at you with such concern...I need to get this "look" on film, it's hilarious!

This weekend we attended Makena's 3rd Birthday party. The theme was Hawaiian Luau and Molly got her very own coconut with her Hawaiian name written on it....Let's just say between the goldfish crackers, coconut drink, and chocolate cupcakes Molly was in Paradise!

Malia and Molly...BFFs!

Makena and Paulie are such dear friends...I never once noticed (until now) that he was the only boy at the party (except for 4 month old Porter)! Paulie sure didn't mind it...Funny...Makena was posing for a photo with Paulie and said, "We are gonna get married!" Ha!

CUPCAKE TIME! Molly: "Really Mom, I can really eat this?"

Everyone else is digging into the delicious cupcakes!

It goes without saying, this girl loves cake...Chocolate Cake!

Florida Showers

2011-12-10T21:57:00.001-06:00

It sure is a busy time of year. No sooner than two days after our Thanksgiving with the Knepp Family ended Molly and I hopped onto a plane to Florida to attend the baby shower of Kim Izzo. Stephen and Kim are expecting their first child in January. We are all very excited for them and can't wait to me the little girl or boy!

Amy and Kathy hosted the Shower. The theme was Wild About Books and everything was decorated in animal print with bambo centerpieces and cute book garland strung from the trees! Amy did a great job with all the details and Kathy was a great hostess!

Kathy is a pro at these pom poms! I just love them hanging from the trees inside her screened in patio.

Kim and a few of her teacher friends

Paul's cousin, Katie, made the three hour drive from Southern FL and Anne Marie and Matthew flew in from Alexandria, VA. Unfortunately I didn't take a lot of pictures during my trip, but I would also like to mention that Diane, Janie, and Grandma Hickey flew in from NY as did Marbeth (cause really, what's a party without Marbeth?).

Kim might be the cutest pregnant girl ever! She has this huge belly but wouldn't know she was pregnant from behind....Her face isn't bloated and her knees are not knobby...Kim is definitely made for this pregnancy stuff cause she makes it look so easy!

After the shower, the boys came over...And it's a good thing cause Molly LOVES her Uncle Matthew. She can be in cranky mood and that all changes when Matthew enters the room. And he's so good with her following her around and playing with her! Not that Stephen is chopped liver or anything cause Molly sure has a twinkle in her eye for him as well...Must be those blue eyes they all have in common!

And this guy is hilarious with his shoe obsession! I think he prefers Grandma's J. Crew flip flops, but he fancied the polka dot heels this night! Oh and I am talking about Zachary not Brian...Although Brian may also fancy a polka dot heel as well...Who knows?

By my last day, Zachary sure warmed up to me....Giving me hugs and sitting on my lap! It was the cherry on top of my already fun weekend trip.

Trying to get these two to hold still for a picture with Grandma was sort of impossible!

But let her climb onto the lounger and she's all smiles...Must be the risk factor, she's a dare devil!

Gobble Gobble!

2011-12-08T19:12:00.001-06:00

This Thanksgiving Day we took part in the local YMCA's Turkey Trot. Paul pushed the stroller and we ran the 5K as a family. I was pleasantly surprised that the kiddos sat still for the entire race and that I was able to complete it in about 27 minutes. After some fun family activities we went home to watch the Thanksgiving Day parade by the warm toasty fireplace! (I know, it kinda sounds like a Hallmark card doesn't it?)

These are just a few a pictures from our Thanksgiving Holiday weekend.

Paulie and Molly were dressed appropriately for the festivities...Nice Hat Paulie!

The Knepp Family flew in late Thanksgiving night (or rather really early Friday morning) so we celebrated Thanksgiving on Friday! Molly was so happy to wake up and see her cousins, Hailey and Tyler!

Paulie was equally excited for his cousins' arrival!

It was such a pleasantly warm day so we took the Northerners to the park (sure beats the snow they are used to seeing on Thanksgiving!).

Things got a little crazy around Thanksgiving dinner time, so unfortunately I don't have any pictures of the evening or the delicious Gluten Free meal that we cooked. Boo hoo!

Molly and Uncle E enjoyed playing a few games with Tyler

While Paulie enjoyed having stories read to him by Hailey

Molly's second favorite place to play is the pantry (Her all time favorite is the laundry room shoe bin)

A little wrestling action at Monkey Joe's Bounceland!

She's such a big girl!

Tyler and Molly riding the mall carousel!

Brrr....It was cold on our trip to the Houston Zoo!

So cold they had to huddle in this grass hut for shelter!

We were excited to take the Knepp Family to one of our favorite places and ride on the Carousel!

Casey and Tyler!

Hi Hailey!

Awww...Poor Molly! I thought she might be a little young to ride the carousel. She looked so pathetic clinging to the bars watching the other kids...I couldn't resist letting her have a turn!

And the boys happily obliged to ride a second time so poor Molly could have a turn.

After our trip to the zoo aquarium....

Uncle E got a little cranky...

So we took him to our favorite yogurt shop, Orange Leaf. Molly loves the free samples...She's a sucker for free sweet stuff!

We also took the Knepps to our favorite playground. The boys had a ball running around! Paulie dropped his pants and peed on the playground while Tyler stood watch. (Hilarious, I might add and it is unfortunate I did not capture it on camera) Everyone was having a blast then Paulie pooped in his pants so we had to go home.

Tuesday, November 28th was Paul's birthday. We treated him to breakfast in bed!

Then he opened his birthday presents of boxer briefs and jeans...Getting older is so exciting!

Molly enjoys the party hats! Just give her some food and a party hat and she's happy for the rest of the day.

Cartoon Time! Paulie and Hailey were so cute sitting together every morning...Or pretty much every chance he got, Paulie sat right next to his big cousin, Hailey!

Did someone say, Children's Museum? We love this place! Can you tell Molly is dancing a little jig?

After Paulie peed all over the floor of isle 3 at the Play Grocery Store, Molly and I ditched him for the Tot Spot!

Cruisin' in Paulie's old whip!

Paulie has graduated from the Tot Spot and favored the lego tables!

We sure had a great visit with the Knepp Family and enjoyed taking them to all of our favorite places! We really appreciated them flying all the way to Texas to spend there holiday with us and look forward to another visit with them real soon! We love you!!

Potty Training Take II

2011-12-08T19:08:00.001-06:00

About a week before Thanksgiving we thought we'd give potty training another go around and it turns out 3 years old was the magic number for Paulie! He's been doing great and pottying it up like a champion! The kid can poop on demand...All we have to do is mention M&Ms and he's on the pot before he can say, "How many do I get?" We are so proud of our little man, Go Paulie!

Like Father Like Son

2011-12-08T19:05:00.001-06:00

In more ways than one, these two are like peas in a pod!

Napa Valley, CA

2011-11-20T19:59:00.001-06:00

Paul and I went on a belated Anniversary trip to Napa Valley this past week and we obviously had one heck of a time (wow, just the use of the word "heck" makes me feel old)! We stayed our first night away in San Francisco (kiddos were home with Grandma, so I didn't worry one bit) before heading to Napa for four full days of wine, wine, and more wine!

We took the Cable Cars down to Fisherman's Wharf (or Dwarf as Paul likes to call it).

First stop was something to eat. Paul doesn't like first class airplane food, so he was cranky..Er, I mean starving! (Did I mention that we flew First Class?)

The next morning we drove to Napa....We were both up at 5am so why not get an early start on our drive! As we were driving out of the city (San Fran), there was a long line of commuters going into town....Suckers! JK.

After checking into our hotel, we grabbed a snack from a local bakery, Model Bakery (just a block from our hotel). Little did we know this would be our go-to breakfast place. How could it not be since it is the home of the World Famous English Muffins?!

Next on the agenda was our first winery, Cuvaison. Good, but looking back it wasn't my favorite....We had no idea what was yet to come!

Paul was pondering our next stop...Wine or Lunch?

My vote was for more wine!

Our second winery of the day, Duckhorn! I think this was our favorite (one of two anyway!).

Drive into Duckhorn. There was not a cloud in the sky the entire day!

My Tree Pose! I was at home.

We were both in our element!

Happy Winos!

Tasting on the wrap around porch.

Afterwards....We were feeling good!

There he is again...Pondering his next move!

Fast forward 6 hours...After lunch, another winery, and a little siesta back at the hotel...We had dinner in Yountville at Bouchon Bistro, a Thomas Keller Restaurant (much more reasonable priced than his "impossible to get reservations" restaurant, French Laundry). Small, quaint place with yummy food.

We started the next day early, 10am, at Mumm's to sample some Champagne.

Did I say sample? These were full glasses to me! Good thing we only ordered one tasting...Paul and I shared.

Next was Cakebread...One of my favorite wines (not that I drink it often as it's over my $10-15 per bottle price range)!

We did a tour and bought our first bottle of wine, Zifandel. (Little did we know that we'd be purchasing at least a bottle of wine at every winery from here on out!)

After some recommendations from a NJ couple on our Cakebread Tour, we went to Tra Vigne for lunch (also recommended by my friend, Denele).

Paul was thirsting for a beer. I think he felt as though he was cheating on it with all the wine we had been drinking.

Tra Vigne is where Michael Chiarello got his start and more importantly it is known for the fresh, homemade mozzerella! YUMMY! And the balsamic vinegar was so tasty I asked the waitress to write down the name of it. Then I bought it on Amazon for $35!! It is really, really good.

I like to capture the moment when I take photos. Paul thinks I'm being selfish and purposefully not taking good photos of him. I can't help it that I'm just more photogenic than him! haha!

Our next stop was Peju. I guess we weren't that impressed because this is the only picture we took here. We did however buy several bottles of wine.

Our last stop of the day was Frog's Leap. This was by far our favorite winery and tour. I actually learned quite a bit about the winery itself and thoroughly enjoyed the tour. It was overcast all day and was raining on and off. It was kind of a nice day despite the rain because it made our driving all the more cozy and enjoyable!

Seth was our tour guide, this is him here in the hat. He took us out in the vineyards and we sampled the grapes. We could do this because Frog's Leap is one of the few Organic vineyards therefore they do not use pesticides.

In the barn where the wine is made...Barn was founded by Helen Trulley sister of co-founder of Frog's Leap Winery, Larry Trulley.

Sampling some Frog's Leap.

Enjoying some Frog's Leap by the fire. Self Portrait.

Guess who joined the Frog's Leap wine club???

As if we weren't stuffed from all the wine tastings, we had a three course dinner with dessert at our hotel's restaurant La Torque. Why the candle in our desserts? It was our Anniversary, duh!

Happy Six Years! (Inside joke, I know it's really only 5)

The next morning we went on an organized Wine Tour. Here I am outside our hotel waiting for our Platypus bus!

First stop on our tour was Whetstone Cellars, founded by John Williamson (also the co-founder of Frog's Leap Winery).

Our tasting was in a cool mid-century stone house. It was beautiful inside and out. And the wine wasn't too bad either!

Next stop was Silenus Winery. This winery made none of their own labels but in fact sold there grapes to other smaller wineries and then produces and distributes those small wineries' wines. Hmm...Got that?

This is also where we had a picnic lunch, compliments of our tour guide, Seth. (Not the same Seth from Frog's Leap, but coincidentally grew up in Saratoga Springs, NY....Small world, right?!)

Skip ahead (I guess we skipped taking pictures at the third Winery, Razu)! It was a tiny winery and tasting room, but good wine we bought a bottle. Unfortunately we don't have any pictures.

Last stop was Hess Winery.

Harvest ended a week prior to our arrival thus there were no longer grapes on the vines AND it allowed for us to better enjoy ourselves since we were not fighting the crowds. Look at the beautiful coloring on the vines!

Inside Hess. This was the first winery where we saw the red stripe on the barrels. Turns out it is a pretty common practice.

Me trying to steal my own barrel tasting!

We did meet some friendly folks on our Platypus tour, and I even have a group picture....but it's inappropriate...We had quite an eclectic group of people, let's just leave it at that!

Also within a block from our hotel was an indoor market (Oxbow Market) where one could pick up a pizza, sandwich, cheese, tacos, wine, cupcakes, ice cream....Pretty much all the good stuff! After our wine tour we were pretty tired so we had a low key dinner at the market. Below is a picture inside the market.

Our last full day in Napa. We had been wanting to go to PlumpJack from day one but somehow it just didn't work out. So on our last day, we made PJ our first stop!

PlumpJack got it's name from a Shakespearian Play.

We puckered up for PlumpJack.

PJ came highly recommended by several friends and it lived up to it's praises! We purchased one of most expensive wines here...And it was a Merlot.

Okay, I think I've figured it out. It's all about the photo location. I asked to be photographed under the funky tree thus a cool picture...Paul asked to be photographed under this telephone wire thus a sub par picture. So it's not technically my fault that the pictures of me are better!

Driving through the hills and valleys of Napa was everything I imagined it would be....Beautiful and Majestic. It was such an awesome time of year...Full of Oranges, Yellows, and Reds. Pictures just don't do this place justice.

Lunchtime at Rutherford's Grill.

This was recommended to Paul by his boss. French Dip.

After dinner we went to Sterling. It was a beautiful winery with a Gondola ride.

Sterling's Entrance.

A view from our Gondola.

A view from the Sterling Compound!

Inside overlooking the HUGE oak barrels.

A spectacular view from the top of the vineyard. We could actually see our next destination from here!

It doesn't look real does it?

Last stop was Castle of Love! We were told to go here if not for the wine, but for the castle. It's amazing that it took the owner 15 years to build and was finally finished in 2007! What?! This castle looks like it is over 200 years old.

Entering the Castle.

Peek-a-boo!

The castle has a real sanctuary and Mass is held weekly every Sunday at 8:30. I wish I had know this because I would have wanted to go...But since it was in Latin, I think I would have had a hard time convincing Paul.

The thousands of oak barrels are stored underground in these tunnels. I think there are 3 or 4 floors underground. So cool!

There was even a torture chamber...Not a real one, but what's a castle without a make believe torture chamber?

Paul tested out the spiked chair. Ouch!

More underground tunnels. This was possibly the coolest place ever!

Kind of looks like a Tuscan village. Great photo!

The sunset going back to our hotel.

I was most looking forward to dinner at Bottega. Michael Chiarello's restaurant; however, he was not there...No Surprise!

Paul had his favorite meal here. While my food was good, it was probably my least favorite. It was a cozy, warm restaurant and a perfect way to end our Napa experience!

Breakfast inside the Market.

See ya next time Napa...Thanks for the wine!

While we were away...Paulie and Molly were well taken care of by Grandma and Papa!

What happened to Thanksgiving?

2011-11-20T19:44:00.001-06:00

Apparently Texas is skipping Thanksgiving this year and just heading right to Christmas...Full speed ahead! I will happily participate in the Christmas festivities around town, but I will not repeat will NOT abandon my fall decorations and lug all those heavy boxes of Christmas decorations down from the attic! Not just yet...In fact, I plan on waiting until the weekend after Thanksgiving when I'm out of town to ask Paul to get out the Christmas decorations!

Like I said, I'm all about the Christmas festivities....So we headed to our local town square for it's Christmas Tree lighting. Paulie is obsessed with Santa Claus this year (and by obsessed I mean he asks to go see Santa at least 10 times a day). So, of course, he wanted to stand in line to see Santa and sit on his lap to tell him he wanted a LONG firetruck for Christmas (because the "short" one he already has just won't do!). I think Paulie was so enamored with Santa that he was speechless.

**If you ask me, this Santa is a little weak! We are going to see the REAL Santa this week.

I'm happy to report that both my kids love freaky dressed up characters...(well I wouldn't say Molly loves them so much as she is not fazed by them!)...We'll see what happens when I plop Molly down on Santa's Lap this week!

It's Official, she's a walker!

2011-11-20T19:32:00.001-06:00

Molly has been walking from person to person, object to person, and object to object (you get the idea) for the past month or so! But just this past week she's been cruising and by cruising I mean she won't let you pick her up and carry her! This girl wants to walk ALL THE TIME. Molly is so happy just to walk around the house doing nothing but practice. If she falls down, she doesn't just crawl to her destination she gets right back up and walks again. What can I say...Baby's got determination! I might add that she's got superb quad strength as she can squat and pick up an object from the ground and stand right back up (all without her hands or bottom touching the ground). She can also dance while standing. But Molly's hands down most impressive skill is guzzling a bottle of milk while walking and then holding onto the bottle with her mouth while bending and squatting to pick up an abandoned cheerio off the floor.

She's quite tickled with herself!

And we are all extremely proud...including her big brother!

Happy Halloween Spidey!

2011-11-03T20:18:00.000-05:00

Just when the weekend couldn't get any more exciting...It was Halloween on Monday! Needless to say I was a little worn out by this time....So even though I had a moment (like 2 minute moment) of thinking I'd dress up for Halloween, I didn't! Maybe next year. Molly was dressed as a baby cheetah (with a tutu? I think I'll take any chance I get to put her in a tutu) and Paulie was Spiderman (duh!). Paul was a super tough Ironman and I was supporting wife! :)

My cute little nugget of a cheetah (or is she a leopard?).

Family pic! I CAN NOT believe we are all sitting still and looking at the camera. Would it be weird if Spiderman was on our Christmas cards?

Where's Paulie? Oh he's the one taking the picture!

Nana and her tutu wearing cheetah!

My mom was in town visiting for Paulie's birthday, so she was able to stay home and hand out candy while the four of us went trick or treating! Molly, sit down girl!

Molly enjoys being chauffeured around the hood in her red ride! First stop was our neighbor and friends' house, The Millers! We went trick or treating in a group (that's how we roll here in Cinco).

Close up of Makena, I mean Jimbo! (Makena insists on being called Jimbo and will not answer to anything but...And she'll correct you if you even reference her former name. Kids!)

Bumble Bee Malia!

Our first official stop for candy! Yahoo! This year was by far the most fun with Paulie. He was SO into Halloween, decorations, costumes, and trick or treating!

Although we might have to be a Ninja or Pirate next year because we saw quite a few of those this year and Paulie had sword envy! We went to our neighborhood party and Paulie was striking his best Spiderman move when another kid whipped out a sword. Paulie didn't back down, but he later came over to me and in a very matter of fact kind of way said, "Mama, I really need a sword."

**That, my friend, is not a member of the Taliban in the background but an Adult Ninja!

Oh there's another Pirate...And Cleopatra! I said, "Oh it's Cleopatra, I love your costume!" She said, "How did you know I was Cleopatra?" Kids!

We (and I say we because I mean Paul and I) lasted for about an hour and half before returning home to put the kiddos in bed! Paulie was W-I-R-E-D and not from candy but just the pure excitement of the night! I love kids and their enthusiasm for life!

Happy Birthday Paulie!

2011-11-03T15:40:00.000-05:00

My little boy is officially three years old! On one hand it's hard to believe he's no longer my baby boy but on the other hand it feels like he should be turning 6, not 3! I say that because it's hard to believe that he's only been in our lives for three short years while it seems like I've always known him and loved him. I can't remember my life before him.

P- Precocious. At times you can seem so wise beyond your years!

A- Active. You love all things that go! Fast Cars, Monster Trucks, Trains, Baseballs, Soccer balls, Golf balls. You are all BOY!

U- Unbelievable Independent.

L- Lovable. You are such a sweet boy and are always making friends wherever we go!

I - Imaginative. You are always zooming your cars around and talking with them.

E- Extremely Blessed. As in we are extremely blessed to have you as part of our family.

We had Paulie's birthday party at a local Yogurt shop with 18 other kiddos! At times it was a zoo, but it sure was fun!

I told the parents that they could bring their kids dressed in their Halloween costumes. Some did and some didn't...Paulie enjoyed dressing as Spiderman for his big day!

My friend Jurie and her two youngest daughters, Adele and Elise. They are so darn cute!

Paulie's hot pink spiderweb cupcakes! Who knew red frosting was darn near impossible to make?!

Mommy and Daddy with Spidey!

Orange Leaf! I think there were so many of us that we scared all the regular customers away...

Molly and Nana!

Malia and Molly having some fun.

Gone are the days when you hit the pinata with bat (three year olds + bats = nothing good), but I was impressed when everyone followed directions and grabbed hold of a string and waited to pull!

They all pulled and nothing happened! Paul had to punch a hole in Spidey to get the treats to fall.

Makena enjoying the loot!

You may be wondering what happened to Paulie's costume and/or pants...More on that later!

Ally waited so patiently for all the kiddos to get over the initial excitement and then swooped in to gather as many lollipops as her tiny hands could hold! Super cute!

Before the Pinata, we had a ghost hunt....That's when Spiderman, I mean Paulie, fell into the fountain! There was a huge fountain in the middle of the courtyard and unbeknownst to his parents he was walking the perimeter of the fountain with an older boy (sibling of birthday guest) when someone yelled, "Paulie just fell in the water!" Paulie crawls out of the two feet of water sopping wet (including his mask!) and crying! The ironic thing about it is that I signed a waiver saying that if anyone got hurt in the courtyard I couldn't sue and in tiny print it said, "No swimming or wading in the fountain". I chuckled at the time thinking, "Oh of course no one will be swimming in the fountain! How silly!" Little did I know it would be the guest of honor, my son, who fell in the darn thing. Now that we are over the scare of him falling into a large body of water, we can laugh about it!

Monique, Malia, and Makena in front of Paulie's swimming pool, er, I mean fountain!

We ended the party with some Bounce house fun! How else were those kiddos gonna burn off the sugar high from the cupcakes and frozen yogurt?

The next morning, Paulie awoke to this! But not before he received breakfast in bed....

One of Paulie's favorite gifts was this race track from his friend, Nathan!

Opening yet another present! Seemed to be the theme of the day.

Whoa, another race track!!

Not one to be left out of the fun, Molly wore a birthday hat too!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY PAULIE! We LOVE YOU Sweet Boy!!!

Half Ironman Completed....Yessss!

2011-11-03T15:10:00.002-05:00

Two weekends ago Paul completed his long awaited Half Ironman in Austin, TX. He signed up for it on February 14, 2011 (hmmmm...maybe that's why he went above and beyond for Valentine's Day) and has been training for it all year! Since signing up he's been logging long hours on the bike and in the pool completing 2 Sprint Triathlons and 1 Olympic Triathlon. He's a powerhouse, what can I say?! While I am very proud of him for setting this goal for himself and accomplishing it with ease, no one is happier that it's over with than me! Anyone who has been or currently is an Ironman Widow can tell you it's a big commitment not only from the Ironman himself but his loving wife who takes care of the kids while he trains. Oh and don't forget lugging the kids around from race to race to see Daddy cross the finish line! After these races, I often feel like I've endured a race myself...A race against a toddler and an infant. And let me tell you, it's no small fete cause they've got endless energy and they know how to kick you when your down! Okay back to Paul...Cause really isn't it all about Paul in the end? Hehe...Just kidding, I love you baby (Just so long as you don't try to pull this crap next year!)

The night before we all carbbed up the Iron Cactus! Even Paulie joined in on the festivities with some vanilla ice cream. Look at Molly eyeing it up.

Austin...It's the Capital! Duh!

Molly Loves Hugs! (So does Mommy)...Exhibit A!

Exhibit B

Gosh she just melts our hearts!

It was a beautiful weekend for the race!

Paulie's favorite piece of the Capital grounds....The Cannon!

Molly wasn't so amused!

Bedtime...Don't let the cozy picture fool you! Even though we had two rooms (we thought we were playing it safe) Molly was up off and on from 2am to 7am meaning not a whole lot of sleep for Mommy and Daddy. Luckily Paulie got a full nights rest.

Austin was having a book festival so there was plenty for Paulie, Molly, and myself to do while we were waiting to go see Paul. We took in a magic show which Paulie seemed to enjoy.

Then we made it to the race in plenty of time (2 hours prior) to watch Paul cross the finish line! Yay!!!

The look on Paulie's face might lead you to believe that he too just completed 70 miles of racing! Nope, just Daddy!

Time to stretch!

Six hours 23 minutes later he's finished! Way to go #2233!

Time to refuel!

Later that day Paul assured me that he is done with Triathlons and that he's gonna just stick to Marathons (Cause running 26 miles is so much easier). The next day he says to me, "You know, I could really beat my Ironman time if I pushed myself just a little bit harder!" Oh really?!

Dewberry Farms

2011-10-17T13:16:00.002-05:00

For those out of towners, Dewberry Farms is the place to go for pumpkins in TX! I'd say it was the place to go for Fall time but it's hard to think of near 90+ degree temps as Fall. This place is only open a few months out of the year and only to the public on weekends. I wondered how this place stays in business, but as we arrived at 10:30 (only 30 minutes after the place opened) and saw the long lines and full parking lot (probably 300+ cars) I realized the people that own this place are raking in the dough! Luckily we didn't have to wait in any lines cause I'm so super smart (wow, I'm really full of myself these days, aren't I?) and pre-purchased our tickets. And thankfully, once we were "inside" the farm there weren't any lines and crowds had dissipated. The entire family had a blast and we ended with a picnic and two very tired kids (Paul and I weren't tired at all, in fact, we were kind of wishing we could go to a playground and chase after the kiddos for another hour or two! Ha!).

Checking out the chicks!

Paulie is always fascinated by little animals. And I am sure the feeling is mutual!

Paulie might have thought this huge pink was real! He kept making sure no one was too close to the head.

Rope swing! This kid has got some mad skills....

Just like his Daddy!

Hold on tight!!

The giant bouncy pumpkin!!

Oh my goodness....Paulie LOVED the pedal race cars! He thought it was HI-larious to be smashed into and kept laughing whenever anyone came close to him!

Faster, Faster!!

Not to be outdone by her big brother!

Born to be wild!

Just a little push from Daddy is all she needed!

Yes, I came along on this trip! Mommy is often photographed but rather the photographer.

Molly shoved an entire piece of PB&J into her little mouth on our tractor ride! Very dignified look you got there Molly.

Picking out Pumpkins! I found my two cutie pumpkins.

Molly and Mommy!

Molly kept trying to pick up the pumpkin...It probably weighed twice as much as she does!

Paulie's Pictures....Our Tractor ride!

Hundreds of Pumpkins

Daddy is excited about all the pumpkin possibilities!

Daddy and his little pumpkin!

This was all Paulie could care about!

Sitting on the pumpkin....We've got at least 20 pictures of Molly posing with the pumpkins. (Hey, we have only one child whom we can pose so we made the most of it.)

The staring out into nowhere while holding onto pumpkin pose!

The look mom no hands I'm standing pose! "Hey Mom, no really where'd ya go?"

The one finger on pumpkin pose!

Enough with the pumpkin patch...We'll buy ours at the pumpkin stand on the way out! No sense carrying around an extra 5-10 lbs if you don't need to, ya know?! (If only the rest of America felt this way maybe then we wouldn't be battling obesity in this country...but that's another blog for another day for another author)

This farm had everything and our photos don't show half of what we did or what was offered! Check out the video for some added fun!

"All right ya'll that's enough fun for one day! Time to get me home to B-E-D!!"

Crazy Daddy needed a drink when we returned home! A drink...Or two!

Baking with Mama

2011-10-10T21:06:00.003-05:00

Cause I'm such an awesome Mom....

We made rainbow pancakes!

Then we made halloween cupcakes with Paulie's best buddy, Makena!

I may have let them eat a little cake batter. Does it help that they were eating raw, organic eggs?

And because I'm such a cool mom....I let them each decorate and eat three mini cupcakes!

Makena was happy with her three minis, but Paulie pointed to the regular sized cupcakes and said, "I want a real one!" So I let them split a "real" one. Look at that face, it says..."Seriously mom, give me the big cupcakes."

Eating the sprinkles is almost as fun as eating the final product!

Two steps

2011-10-10T20:52:00.003-05:00

Molly took her first two solo steps today from Mommy to Daddy! Yeah, I can't believe it. Paulie was 13 months when he started to walk and I thought he was late. Molly will be 13 months in a week and I feel like she's advanced. Ha! How your mood and attitude changes from one child to the next. I think I expect less of her because she is so small and seems much younger than she really is. (Okay, that sounds bad...I expect nothing less of her because she's small! There how's that?) I guess I'm just a little more relaxed this time around. I mean, no one ever crawled into their Kindergarten class, right? As a side bar, I've tried to use this comparison to potty training Paulie....No one ever went to Kindergarten in diapers right? But then I had to bite my tongue because Kathy informed me that Paul wet his bed well into his Kindergarten years. Oh common, really? Really, this is what I'm in for?!

On to more positive things...Paulie is becoming quite the big brother! He can be so nurturing and loving towards Molly. And when these moments of love are aplenty my heart is swollen with joy and cheer!

How sweet are they?!

Not too mention hilarious! They were laughing up a storm.

Molly just cracks me up on this thing! She seems too little to be doing these things...

Lately Molly is such a mess when she eats that we've just started dressing her in the same color food she'll be eating...Or rather we only give her food that will match her colors she's wearing?

What is it with children and tables? They just can't stay away from the dangers of getting stuck under the dining room table and chairs! Just look at that face.

Stretching it out with Daddy!

To hell with you Triathlon Race!

2011-09-27T15:10:00.001-05:00

This past Sunday I packed up the kiddos at 9am (Molly was robbed of her nap for the sake of "fun") and set about going to see Daddy run the race of his life (not really, that's next month)! It only took 30 minutes to get there and we even saw Daddy riding his bike on our way. However, once we got to the location there were no signs as to where to go or where to park. So I spent the next 45 minutes in traffic and driving in circles with a tired one year old crying and trying to explain to an almost three year old that Mommy was lost and needed complete silence in order to think. The only way I could somewhat obtain this silence from the almost three year old was to play an Eddie Spaghetti song on repeat 1,000 times (cause it's only a two minute song, damn that Eddie Spaghetti guy!). After a near meltdown from Mama and a few tears were shed, we made it to our destination. We only had to wait another 45 minutes in the 90+ degree heat while the baby cried to get out of the stroller and the kid begged me to go play at the playground. When we finally spotted Daddy and met him at finish line these were the only three photos I took....

Later that afternoon while relaxing and enjoying my lunch (sans kids, they were napping!), Paul says to me, "WHAT?! You only took three pictures? Why did you guys even come?" He said he was only joking, but what do you think happened to him after a comment like that? Let's just say I was the one who got to take a nap later that day!

Because Two is never enough!

2011-09-27T14:45:00.002-05:00

Two children under the age of three just isn't challenging enough for me so......No I'm not having another baby! Even better, I adopted three girls (two, three, and four years old). Aren't they adorable? Actually I was just watching them for a few hours while their Mommy needed to get a few things done! They are such sweet little girls, kind of like the Three Amigas, but with Paulie they are the Four Amigos!

Trying to get the Four Amigos to all look at the camera was kind of impossible. However, I am impressed that I was able to get all three of them to eat a healthy snack of apples and oranges!

Paulie, Elise, Emmie, and Adele.

Can you tell Emmie and Adele are pros at this looking at the camera and smiling thing?

About a half hour later I was hosting a baby playdate so in addition to the five I already had....We threw (not literally) an additional three babies and two toddlers into the mayhem! Luckily I had some help from Grandma who entertained the "big kids" upstairs while the babies played downstairs!

All the playing, tired Paulie out!

"Mom please with the camera, you are embarrassing me!" (The ladybug on the couch is our neighbor friend, Makena, visiting us in the afternoon)

Uh Oh, Paulie the Paparazzi is BACK!

Malia was none too happy to have her photograph taken!

"Here give me that thing will ya?"

Meanwhile....This little lady was getting into trouble of her own!

Molly, just how are you going to get your legs out of that chair without falling on your head?

"Easy Mom, I'll just stand up...."

"And I'll propel myself off this chair....CATCH!"

"Ah Geez Mom, relax already will ya?"

Not to be outdone by Spiderman or Miss Lady Bug, Molly wanted to try on her Halloween Costume....Cheetah Girl! No we will not be lining her eyes with black liner or letting her get a spray tan for the occasion. For what would we have left to do when she turns four?

What do you get when you take one full tub of overflowing bubbles and two naked children? A really, really wet floor! Duh?!

Happy Birthday Molly

2011-09-20T14:19:00.004-05:00

Molly turned one this past weekend! I can hardly believe it, she doesn't look a day older than 8 months. However she is developmentally on track so I'm not worried, she's just a petite thing. Her facial expressions and personality have really shone these past few weeks. I think she knew something big was happening. Molly recently started walking along with push toys. She also loves hopping aboard her zebra bounce toy and making it jump! Molly really is the cutest little peanut, but then again I'm a little prejudiced.

Playing on her Zebra. She doesn't know that her legs are too short to touch the ground. In fact I think she just kicked Paulie out of her way!

"Oh Hey Mom, just getting some toys out of this here annoying basket!"

Picture of Mommy and Molly compliments of Paulie.

Speaking of Paulie....Has anyone seen him around lately? BTW - Paulie is going to be Spiderman for Halloween. Well forget Halloween, he's Spiderman right now. And he is a force to be reckoned with!

Molly and Malia. What a face Malia?!

Spiderman and his friend the Bumblebee, Makena aka Matilda

Decorating for Molly's Birthday Party

I wanted to have everything out and ready to go for Molly to see first thing in the morning.

Wrapping presents at midnight!

It looks like Christmas!

Final Look...Before the spaghetti dinner, cake, and presents!

Opening her first present of the day!

Her very first talking tea set! Tea for Daddy?

"Whatta ya got for me next Mom?"

"Yes, my very own riding toy! Hopefully big brother won't knock me off of this one!"

"Weeeeee....Okay, someone push me please."

"What do you mean I have to push myself?"

"Thank you to the Folse family for my cute Halloween Tutu outfit!" (It has a sequined pumpkin on the front as well)

"Now that I've got my Birthday Dress on (Thank you Nana), give me a bottle and another present!"

"Uh Oh, is this gonna be another toy that my brother thinks is his?!" Thank you Grandma and Papa for the stand and play toy!

Party Time!

We had Chicken Parmesan and Spaghetti for Molly's Birthday dinner. Can't you tell?

With her Birthday hat...Gotcha!

She loved it, can't you tell?

She loved her cake as well! Can't you tell? It was such a pleasant surprise that she LOVED her cake cause I could not force Paulie to eat his 1st Birthday cake. In fact, he cried...Yep, I should have known then he'd be a picky eater!

She kept looking at everyone like, "Is it really okay that I'm eating this?"

"You're not going to take it away are you?"

Here's how the cake event went down....(Unfortunately our memory went out on our camera right as we were singing Happy Birthday, but luckily Grandma and my friend, Monique, had their cameras rolling...Geez!)

"I think I'll lick the plate clean just in case this is the last piece of cake I'm ever given!"

Makena looked so cute in her party outfit. She even accessorized!

After dinner we opened some more presents...Makena and Paulie helped! Molly just loves her monkey from Stephen and Kim.

Both Paulie and Molly enjoy the books from the Milkes Family...Thank you!

Happy Birthday Baby Girl! I can't believe how quickly a year has gone by. Although it feels like you've been a part of our lives for much longer. You've blessed this family in so many ways. You are the sweet, yummy icing on our birthday cake!

P.S. While I don't have a picture of Molly's musical doggie from The Knepp Family, we thank you very much! And a big thank you to Grandma as well as the Miller family for sharing Molly's special day with us and for the personalized CD and cute books!

Wedding Weekend in Buffalo

2011-09-07T19:30:00.003-05:00

After unpacking from our Wisconsin wedding we had a day or two to unwind then pack again for the much anticipated wedding of Matthew and Anne Marie in Buffalo, NY. Fortunately for Paulie and Molly, we let them tag along! We were again blessed with beautiful weather (I was nervous about the possible chilly evenings...I live in TX where 60 degrees is chilly!). The wedding was fabulous and very heartfelt (some tears were definitely shed) and the reception was beyond words (something out of a Martha wedding magazine would be appropriate).

We are getting pretty good at this flying thing....Movie for Paulie and Nap for Molly!

Abby and Paulie could often be found in a warm embrace! They sure do love each other....Look at poor Zach in the background, he wants some love too!

Molly chugging poolside at the Marriott Hotel! This girl knows how to party...BTW- Please don't judge my hairy legs, I was sure to shave before the wedding...duh!

We took a trip with Grandma and the Milkes Family to Niagara Falls on Friday.

Walking down to the falls. I think this pic was taken just as Paul let go of Molly's stroller and it was heading towards the raging rapids! One word of advice Paul- Brakes!

Trying to coax Paulie into posing for a photograph with Daddy...Mission Impossible!

Paulie thought he needed the binoculars to get a closer look at the Falls.

Family Pic minus Paulie!

We got a beautiful rainbow!

Getting ready to ride the Maid of the Mist...Guess who didn't want to wear their poncho? (Paulie and Zach) and Guess who didn't end up wearing one? Starts with a P and ends with Stubborn!

Forced Family Picture

Molly was all too happy to wear her poncho and to eat it as well!

Where's Zachary?

Molly was squealing in delight when the mist fell on her little noggin'!

Paulie took some photos on the way home! About 15 of them look like this....All the while he'd say, "Molly say 'CHEESE'" I guess he was waiting for her to actually say cheese before he stopped. Didn't happen!

Hey Mom! "Say 'Cheese'"

Chillaxing back at the hotel...Calling Room Service, "Can I please get a Peanut Butter & Honey sandwich sent up to room 1026 ASAP?!"

The rehearsal was at a fabulous restaurant overlooking the water. Caught ya Paulie!

Mommy and Molly!

Pre-wedding...Molly was getting cozy with Bret.

Molly was all dressed up with no where to go!

The three brothers waiting for the big moment.

Cecilia and Gianna (two of three flower girls)

Paulie and Abigail! They looked so sweet together...Definitely the best ring bearer/flower girl combo I've ever seen! (As you can see it's not the clearest picture, so if anyone has a better one could you please email it to me?)

Matthew is watching his bride come down the isle...1,2,3....Awwww!

Anne Marie with her father and big brother, Joe, walking her down the isle. You could see the pride in her father's eyes. Such a sweet moment!

Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Izzo

An intimate moment between Paulie and his nose! They are BFFs.

"Whew, this ring bearer stuff is hard work!"

"Hey Dad, can I please have the camera?"

Self Portrait (We have exactly 10 of this exact same photo, not one is different from the next)

PAULIE PICS

Emily taking Paulie's photo and Paulie taking a photo of Brian trying to pose all GQ

Why did Paulie not get one pic of Zachary's face?

Just a little pre-party nap! I think it was the two bottles of wine that did her in.

He must have slept like this for over an hour, maybe two! God bless us all. Since we were lucky enough to have both of our children sleep at some point during the reception we were able to stay for the entire duration...Midnight! Molly slept through all the loud music and dancing...

You better believe I brought the Baby Bijorn, I just knew someone would want to carry her. Thanks Emily!

The Best Men Speech...from Paul and Stephen.

Mother-Son Dance to a Izzo boy favorite, What a Wonderful World.

PAULIE'S PICTURES

Paulie is really getting the hang of this photograph thing. He actually took some pretty good pictures along with many pointless pictures, i.e. floors, people's backsides, feet, walls, etc. The following pictures are just a fraction of the many pictures taken by Paulie!

The Photographer!

Mother Daughter Dance

Joe and Harry taking pictures of the Mother Daughter Dance.

Another Photographer! I think they thought it was funny that Paulie was taking their photo so they in turn took a picture of him taking a picture....Hahaha....Photography humor!

We might be in the market for a new camera so Paulie thought he'd get a good picture of this one!

While I was dancing with Paulie, he took it upon himself to invade everyone's space and snap a photo! Teresie and Rodger

Carol and Gerard

Cecelia and Joe

Grandma and Daddy

Lovely Chandelier

Michael and Leah

Mommy dancing solo while Kim busts a move in the background!

A view from afar...What was Paulie doing so far away from everyone?!

Molly and Papa! Just before bedtime....in big brother's PJ top!

Paulie was a big fan of the props! HUGE FAN! For 1/3 of the night he was a photographer, another third he was a dinosaur (NOT an alligator), and the remaining third of the night he was a butterfly!

Nothing says bedtime like a dance upon Daddy's shoulders....She loved it!

What a fantastic night, one that will be remembered for many years to come! Thank you Matthew and Anne Marie for sharing this day with us....In the words of Paulie, "It was the best Birthday Party we've EVER been to!"

Wedding sans Kids

2011-09-07T12:45:00.004-05:00

Our first Wedding of the week was in Milwaukee, WI for one of Paul's college buddies. We left the kiddos home with Nana and it was a good thing cause I don't think they could have handled all the late night dancing and drinking. My feet are still aching from all the dancing I did on this trip!

We arrived one day earlier than the rest of the crew so we hit up some tourist attractions, like this one...The Milwaukee Museum of Art. Designed by some famous architect (don't remember his name, but I'm not really "in the know" when it comes to architects) to look like a boat. And it has wings that "flap" but were not functioning on this day due to maintenance.

Paul was thrilled that I made him pay $28 to go to a museum. While I looked at the exhibits he did stupid stuff like this....Oh and he spent a good 10 minutes trying to take a picture of a security guard to text to Stephen (inside joke)!

Lounging lakeside....Enjoying the gorgeous weather!

It was a nice escape from the 100+ degree heat in Texas.

Coming from TX where most everything is dried up and brown, I couldn't believe how lush and green everything was.... I kept feeling all the plants and flowers to see if they were real.

Rehearsal Dinner wasn't until 6 so we had some time to kill....Spent that time at a brew tour, LakeFront Brewery, where they give you many many free beers!

Rehearsal Dinner at Miller Inn. We had a brewery tour here as well!

The "city" of Miller!

This picture is HI-larious! Paul looks like he's posing for some financial journal and the two people on either side of him look none too happy to be there!

At last the wedding! These two were a hit....The ring bearer was 18 months and such a little man. I was just a tad bit obsessed with him!

The Newlyweds! It was an amazing church and a very intimate ceremony.

My dear friend Mandy. It was nice catching up with her over the wedding weekend and trading stories about our babies! Oh and she was my dancing partner aka Partner in Crime!

Look at those handsome men!

Cheers!

Market Street! This place was fabulous...Many delicious local treats to sample, like Squeaky Cheese!

Can you tell we were enjoying our freedom from the kids?

Ryan and Paul catching some rays with a cold one!

Three Pretty Ladies!

The morning we left. We were sad to leave such beautiful weather but we were definitely missing our children.

The weekend left us feeling a little.....exhausted! Some of us more than others!

Hey YOU!

2011-09-06T17:36:00.001-05:00

Hey YOU! Yes YOU! I know you're wondering when I'm gonna update this here blog thingy. I've got two sets of wedding pictures to go through (half of them are pics taken by Paulie). I've got some MAJOR blogging to do! But tonight I've got BUNCO (Hello priorities, right?), so stay tuned!

Budding Photographer

2011-08-22T21:24:00.000-05:00

Paulie kind of enjoys taking pictures with our camera. Call me crazy for letting a 2 1/2 (almost 3) year old carry around my camera but maybe it's my way of letting fate take it's course (I may be rallying for a new camera). These are just a small fraction of the pictures he's taken, but let me tell you this boy has talent for storytelling through photos....

Hmmm...Golf on TV, it must be Sunday!

Piles of laundry waiting to be put away....Well, this could be any day of the week!

Unused Potty seat and step stool....What are these again?!

Mommy's attempt at Toy Organization...Not gonna happen!

Oh, there goes Daddy!

Crackers and Beer! Yep it must be Sunday afternoon.

Hi Mom! Don't you think you should get in the bedroom and put away those clothes?

Oh, that's where I put my hammer! Speaking of hammers, check out that new iPhone.

Mommy's ride!

Hello Recyclables, can't wait til Tuesday can ya?!

Ewww....Bugs stuck in the Garage! Suckers!

Hmmm....Bad attempt at a self portrait!

My prized possessions!

Hello Garage Door.

Oh hey Fernando! Don't worry my mom does (NOT) know I'm outside by myself.

My house.

My hood!

Daddy needs to trim them there roses!

Cool artwork by yours truly....compliments of Mama!

Oh hey Triple T, what's going on my friend?

11 Months! What?!

2011-08-21T21:15:00.000-05:00

I know it's a cliche to say this but I can not believe Molly will be one year old in less than a month! She still looks so much like a baby. It's ironic because Paulie never looked like a baby since he had a full head of hair from birth. Molly is my big blue eyed baldy and I adore her for it! She is still a petite little thing at just under (or over, it's been a few weeks since she's been weighed) 16 pounds. She's still wearing 9 month clothing but can wear some 12 months and also some 6 months. She's a healthy eater and recently weaned from Breastmilk to cow's milk. This brings me mixed emotions, elated that I have my body back but sad that she doesn't need me for nourishment. She and Paulie differ quite a bit in terms of eating. Molly has always welcomed new foods and never gives me the funky face when putting something new in her mouth. Paulie gave me a sour face anytime a new food was introduced. Molly dislikes most pureed foods while Paulie loved baby food and solids not so much (except for breads, both my children love their carbs). I'm hoping I get a good, healthy eater with my Molly. So far so good (biting my tongue now!). I've been blessed with great sleepers. We did not need to implement cry it out with Molly cause she slept through the night early on while Paulie was "Ferberized" at 5 1/2 months. Either way, it's safe to say I'm blessed in the sleep department.

Molly has recently started walking while assisted. She walks holding onto furniture. She can walk holding onto our hands, but her legs still slide outward and her upperbody leans back a bit. She is so proud of herself when she pulls herself up and gets something she really wants. Like the other day when Paulie left his bag of peanut butter crackers on the ottoman. Molly pulled herself up and was chomping down on a cracker with one in each hand. When I caught her she just smiled as crumbs of orange cracker fell out of her mouth. I guess it's safe to say she's not allergic to peanut butter. Actually she ate one of Paulie's pb&j sandwiches at the ripe old age of 6 months when Paulie tossed her half of his sandwich while driving to swim class (can you say heart attack). Of course she happily ate as much as she possibly could while I one handedly reached around the drivers seat to pry it from her dainty little fingers. Kids!

Molly has four teeth with one more on the way. (Meanwhile Paulie is finally getting one of his two year molars) She's got two big front teeth (really quite big for such a little girl). Only half of them are through and she looks so unbelievably cute when she grins at me.

As mentioned earlier, Molly is now fully weaned. It took her a while to adjust to cow's milk, but loves it from a bottle. Go figure! The girl never took a bottle of breastmilk or formula but now that she's not nursing she downs a bottle of cow's milk in minutes. She feeds herself the bottle and tips it upright to get the maximum amount of milk in the minimum amount of time.

She used to be a little wiggle worm when we tried to read her books before naptime or bedtime. But now that Molly's not nursing she's got something to hold onto (bottle) while we are reading her books. I think Molly has taken quite a liking to books and now enjoys them! This makes me happy because Paulie loves books and I was feeling guilty that we didn't start reading to Molly at an earlier age.

Molly also loves clapping, playing peek-a-boo and how big is Molly, being chased, eating blueberries and spinach ravioli, shaking her head no, being upside down, doing headstands with her feet on the ground, and playing in water.

Busy doing Nothing

2011-08-09T14:21:00.003-05:00

There is one sure thing I've learned about parenthood and that is it's easy to piss a day away! Not just a day, but a week or a month even. And when someone asks innocently asks you, "What have you been up to?" I honestly have no idea! Life seems to be a big fat blur lately, but not necessarily in a bad way. It just seems like we spend a whole lot of time doing nothing. But those "moments of nothing" are times to treasure NOW and hold close in our hearts since 5-10 years from now they won't be remembered but it doesn't mean they were any less important or loved. (Does that make sense...because it does in my head but not so much in print)

Like the time Molly fell asleep with cracker in hand on our way back from watching Paul compete in his triathlon.

Like the time Paulie was rewarded for taking naps...12 Naps got him this battery powered four wheeler.(I always said I'd never resort to bribery....BUT it was a small price to pay for 12 days of 2+ hours of down time for Mama!)

Like the time we went to the Children's Museum and Paulie ran to the ambulance and said "Look Mama, I'm driving for real!"

Like the those tender moments when everyone is getting along!

Like the time Molly and Paulie laughed so hard I think they peed their pants. Good thing they are both still in diapers!

Like the time we stopped for frozen yogurt (100th time) and I didn't get any (1st time)!

Like the first time Paulie sat in a helicopter. He didn't want to leave!

Like the time they both ate pizza at 9 o'clock in the morning.

Like the first time Molly ate Spaghetti and Meatballs

These moments may not huge monumental occasions worthy of a baby book entry but they are definitely worth remembering!

File this one under...Miscellaneous

2011-07-26T21:39:00.001-05:00

After a nice afternoon nap....

We went for a bike ride! Did you know Paulie skipped the tricycle? Yep, he may still wear diapers but he's rolling on a big boy bike! For real ya'll....

(Notice the monitor on the ground...Yep, Molly was still sleeping)

Poor Molly has roseola but it is in the final stages....Just a flat polka dot rash all over her body. Looks worse than it is and she handled it like a trooper....Even the three days with a 100+ temperature!

Big Brother Paulie and Molly...Awww....If only you could have seen them two minutes prior!

So much fun and so little time!

2011-07-26T21:29:00.002-05:00

I'd like to say we've been super busy around here with TONS of adventurous activities, but I'd be lying. Between the 100+ degree temps and the 3 Day Potty Training we've been a keeping a low profile here in Texas.

What do you do when it's too freaking hot outside to breath? Put the bounce house inside, duh?!

We had a watermelon seed spitting contest and Molly lost by a long shot cause she ate all the seeds!

"Errr....Oh mom, it's a seedless watermelon...DUH!"

Eating some Blueberry Bread....

Sharing some Blueberry Bread....

She loves her some Blueberry Bread!

Don't ask!

More Blueberry Bread pics!!

Oh yeah, and Molly is standing! Won't be long now before she's walking...eek!

So Big! Strangers think she's the most advanced 4 month old they've ever seen...That's right Molly, keep em guessing!

More fun in the bounce house!

More Watermelon fun!

Being silly with Mama!

Fountain fun! Molly loves water just as much as Paulie.

Trying to catch the water! Oh how I love her....

She goes all in...Water in the eyes....No Problem!

FYI

2011-07-26T21:06:00.000-05:00

He's back in diapers! Turns out peeing in his big boy pants was no big deal....So for the sake of my floors, couch, rugs, and overall well being I've put diapers back on the kid for another month or two! Big Boy Pants, it was nice meeting you. We hope to meet again soon!

Potty Training, don't mess with us!

2011-07-18T14:57:00.001-05:00

For the record we started the 3 day potty training on Friday, July 15th. I wanted to quit after the first day but my darling husband wouldn't let me! I was so mad at Paul, but now I'm thankful that Paulie has two parents cause he's doing awesome! We persevered and Paulie is officially out of diapers and in big boy underpants. I must say my two Pauls are a lot smarter than I gave them credit for...And I mean that in the nicest way!

So with that said, I went into Paulie's room this afternoon during naptime to investigate. I guess you could say that I had one too many poop on the wall (and floor and window and everywhere else) experiences to trust silence in a bedroom. I didn't smell poop halfway up the stairs which was a good thing. I cracked open the door to find underpants and pajamas strewn throughout the room...Got a little nervous...then I found him....

Luckily the underpants were dry as was he...No evidence of pee or poop anywhere. I think the wet circle on the chair arm is just drool, but I didn't get close enough to smell it....Hello, I didn't want to wake him up!

Pool Fun

2011-07-18T14:48:00.001-05:00

These pictures were taken by my very good friend and neighbor, Monique, about a month ago (maybe longer?). One of our many playdates together....I'm so glad they get along so well.

Molly, Malia, Makena, and Paulie...I like to call them Paulie and M to the third Power!

For the life of me I couldn't figure out why Paulie had a bandaid on his nose especially since he never wears bandaids. Just goes to show you how quickly you forget....and then remember...it was from a rug burn!

Molly and her BFF Malia...They are too cute! So close in fact they like to share shoes...the very same pair of shoes!

Just noticed that Molly doesn't have teeth in this picture...It must have been taken well over a month ago.

Saratoga Springs

2011-07-11T16:00:00.001-05:00

Like I previously mentioned, I did not take one photo with my camera so the following pictures are from Paul's iPhone. I'm relying on others (hint, hint) to send me some additional pictures from our fun, fabulous trip up North. While Paul and I had a great time seeing family, I'd have to say that Paulie made out the best on this vacation. He had nonstop entertainment (from the closet full of toys to his many cousins, copious amounts of ice cream and cookies, M&Ms from Janie's house (I'm proud to report I had none), very few naps, no early bedtimes, and woke up whenever he pleased (unfortunately for Paul and I he happened to start one of our days at 4:40 am!). Molly had it pretty good as well. She had constant entertainment from cousins, discovered a new found love of baby dolls, two naps a day everyday, and she too got to wake up whenever she wanted! Unfortunately for Molly she did not have copious amounts of ice cream, but she did enjoy several of Janie's delicious home cooked meals!

Day 2 started with a walk in Congress Park! And yes, Paulie did try the natural spring water which tastes a lot like dirty pennies.

Paulie Izzo, future understudy of Jerry from Ben & Jerry's

Molly also enjoyed a stroll or two through Congress Park. We were greeted by baby ducklings on several occasions! "Aaaawww, they're so cute!" exclaimed Paulie.

Ben AND Jerry! Er, I mean Paulie and Abby.

A favorite pastime, digging in dirt at the vacation home.

More ice cream!

How many kids can we fit in the hammock? Well, Molly made it four until she fell out! (Just kidding)

What's a trip to Congress Park without a ride on the Carousel? Molly and Papa prove you are never too young (or too old...wink) to enjoy the Saratoga Carousel Horses!

I'm probably being scolded by Paulie for trying to hold onto him.

Daddy and Molly! Enjoying the cool morning breeze....we don't get much of it down here in TX!

Some people like to wear their stickers on their shirt....

And some people like to put them on their eye. Okay, maybe Paulie's the only one but that's why we love him!

Swinging with Grandma!

Paulie in a Darth Vadar hat. There were more guns, swords, and inappropriate toys in the toy closet...It's no wonder he was a bit violent in the days following our trip!

The wheels on the bus go round and round...

Bagel from Uncommon Ground anyone? No bagel for Mommy, just lots and lots of coffee!

Taking a break from swimming at Janie's house.

Kim and Molly poolside!

Mommy's night out! We've got dancing pictures, but we'll keep those to ourselves. If you want to see Kim and Kyra's moves live you'll have to wait until Matthew and AM's wedding! And if you aren't invited then it's your loss!

Nothing about this trip ceased to entertain Paulie Izzo! Not even our Malibu rental car!

Our #1 babysitter! The Toy Closets!

Zachary giving Molly some love! So sweet!

I can't tell if Zach is trying to pull Molly off his mother's lap or teaching her patty cake....I'll assume the latter!

Nothing says fun like pulling off all the cushions on the sofa to make a fort....Or play hide and seek!

Grandma and Molly swinging in the hammock.

Picnicking in the park! So fun!

Carousel ride #5

Digging a hole at Janie's house. While Margaret and Shannon ponder just how deep he'll go!

Halfway through he lost the PJs!

Molly and her new baby doll...On the table in Janie's garage...Yes, it's random!

The excitement finally caught up with Paulie on our trip home. He fell asleep on the airplane and stayed asleep as I carried him through the airport then onto the shuttle bus to our car and all the way home! I thought maybe he had mysteriously bumped his head and had some sort of nasty concussion. No worries, he woke up just as we were pulling into our neighborhood.

Good Times had by all!