Little League – Go Angels!

Blake’s first “undefeated” Little League season just ended. Sadness everywhere. We couldn’t have had a better time with our team, coaches, and families!

After the last game, we had a party for the kids with pizza, an ice cream sundae bar, water balloons, a dad/son baseball game, and trophies. Blake was so excited to get his first real trophy and even Coach Mike got recognized for his pitching arm. The girls had fun getting out too (and going every which way). They both took a liking to the dugout. Trouble.

Blake, we are so proud of you! Go #10! We can’t wait for next season to start!














*A few weeks before the end of the season, the kids got to walk on the field at Angel Stadium. SO fun for all of them!

Easter Weekend

Sometimes, on these holidays, I stop and think, “I wonder how much longer Blake is going to believe in the Easter bunny.” He’s five. As a parent, you get so excited for your kids to experience these little things, like finding Easter eggs, and then it’s almost gone. I hate that. Life is moving by way too fast right now and I’m looking forward to the next chapter–simplicity (I know, I know… such a buzz word), family, and maybe a few seconds to sit and relax.

The pictures say a ton, but here’s a quick recap so I can remember five years from now what we did. We dyed eggs, of course, but Bryn didn’t participate because she passed out early (her sleeping schedule is killing us!), opened Easter baskets the next morning, and hunted for eggs at Tustin Sports Park with cousin Madilyn.

One of my favorite parts of the day was watching the kids fly their first kite. Pure joy! I also have a soft spot in my heart for these dyed Easter eggs. They just threw them into each color about 33 times and you got something seriously artistic!














Blake Turns Five Years Old!

Five years ago, this amazing boy of ours was born. He was all we had ever wanted and dreamed about. Once he was in my arms, I couldn’t get enough. I still can’t. He has changed me for the better as a person and has given me the greatest title in the world–Mama.

Blakey Boo, you have such a loving, sweet heart. Your ability to walk into any room and be everyone’s best friend is just plain awesome. You’re funny. You’re FULL of energy. You make life fun. You say words like “bisgusting” (disgusting). Your love for your sisters makes me smile. You love to show off your karate and robot/break dancing moves. You are super competitive and always need to be first. Your favorite things to do include playing with your cars and planes, riding your bike, playing any sport, taking pictures, helping out in the kitchen, and eating Lucky Charms.

Happy Five Years Blake!

For the actual big day, we brought in donut holes for B’s class and took him to Chuck E. Cheese for dinner. Gamma, Tia, and Uncle were there to help us celebrate!








Back to School with Blake

That time of year again to take a pic of your kid (minus the sign) before he heads off to school. Actually, we all kinda get excited about it. I drag B to the backyard for “natural” light like I know what I’m talking about. I drag him to the staircase because isn’t that where we took the same pic last year? I drag him to the front of the house because the front door is a great backdrop, right? Then he wants to take a pic of us. Oh wait–I WAS SUPPOSED TO BE READY TOO?! Yikes.

To the last year of preschool! All B wants to do is go to the big school with the pre-teen girls next door. Did I say yikes already?




Blake’s Week With K

Sports camp for a week. Two trips to the trampoline place. One too many trips through the McDonald’s drive-thru. In between not sharing toys (those dumb Pokemon cards!) and arguing over who gets what car seat, I swear these kids told each other they were best friends every other minute.

Neat to see your kid make a friend!




Around Here: Learning

Months ago, I noticed that Blake was going crazy on the days he didn’t have school. The twins needed even more of my attention. The house was becoming more of a disaster (still is). And, my poor guy was acting out in a bad way.

So, I searched and found some really cool websites (here and here) that featured crafts for kids. Some activities had to do with upcoming holidays and others had to do with just plain learning and teaching him something new. Nowadays, we spend at least an hour or two sitting at the kitchen table tracing, writing our name or learning our letters. And, if the weather is right (which it usually is) we play store or water our plants.

It’s amazing to me that he knows how to write a ‘B’ or knows that his friend, Cash’s name starts with a C. And how to set a table?! Gosh, he’s growing up!





Blake turns 4 and has a Pirate Party!

I’m finally getting around to this. I swear life is getting so hectic and crazy that I just found time to type this up while on vacation. More on that later!

Weeks ago, our baby boy turned four years old. Our Blake. So full of energy and life. Testing our patience (alot lately) when he wants more attention. Cracking us up with his little language. Just a few of my favorites over the past few months:

– Let ME watch MY sisters. You guys go in the other room!
– Mine is going to be the biggest beanstop (beanstalk).
– Mommy, you have to cover your mouth when you hiccup.

I live for the moments when he wakes up and is this little angel who wants to sit in my lap and watch cartoons. Or when he hugs us both and says, “You guys are my best friends.” He’s wild and crazy but I couldn’t imagine having a little boy who wasn’t just that.

We threw him a pirate party with a few friends and a lot of family. Ate pizza, “planks” (celery and carrots), “shark bait” (kid snacks), “swords” (fruit kabobs) and “fish and chips” (goldfish crackers and potato chips). I got most of my ideas from this site, including the food labels. We dressed up as pirates and took pictures. Jumped around in the bounce house–his one and only request. And opened way too many presents. Thanks Mom and Mal for taking pictures all day. They turned out great!

Happiest Birthday Blakey Boo. You make our life a great adventure!













First T-Ball Game: Rays vs. Angels

These past few weeks, we have had a lot of family over (so very nice!). And, on Friday, my sister and I got to spend some special quality time together–sitting on the couch, each holding one baby girl, chatting about growing up and how we want to be as moms. I had such a nice time, Jamie. Love you!

That same night, it kinda hit me that Saturday was Blake’s first real t-ball game. The other weeks were just practices. I had to go! I felt fine. The girls would probably love to get some fresh air. And I just couldn’t miss being there for my big guy, and seeing Mike being a great Dad. The more time goes by, I’m SO aware of how important it is to be there for my family. To be what my sis and I chatted about–To be a good mom and wife.

As usual, Mike and Blake had a blast! We were lucky enough to have Mike’s Dad, Auntie Amory and Uncle Jay there to cheer everybody on. Blake’s favorite part: wearing the helmet and hitting the ball. Let’s go RAYS!






Two Weeks Old & a Big Brother

It seems like we just got home from the hospital…

Brooklyn:

  • Is the most mellow person I have met in a long time. I swear I don’t even know what her cry sounds like.
  • Makes the best faces when she sleeps. Cracks me up.

Bryn:

  • Loves to be held. When she cries (I do know what that sounds like) all she wants is to be in your arms.
  • Might have a blocked tear duct (like I did as a baby). She’s still gorgeous.

We’ve been busy getting adjusted to having three kids and a new schedule. A few days ago, we went to the park which was nice and a complete reality check as I held Brooklyn and tried to get Blake off of a rock wall. Today ended with some Mommy and Blakey time. We played basketball, baseball, and read books. Now that I’ve been cleared to kinda get back to normal (I’ve never been so sick of my bed!) and feel somewhat normal (so excited that I’ve already lost 20 lbs.), I think more Blakey time is in my future. I can’t wait!




 

We Made a Wish Today

Early this morning, while snuggled in bed, I found an eyelash on Blake’s cheek. I told him, “Eyelashes are special and when you find one you get to make a wish.” He didn’t fully understand but we agreed that our wish was for healthy brothers or sisters. So, I took it from his cheek, we said our wish out loud, and blew the eyelash off of my finger. Funny how he really loves little moments like that. A minute later, he was asking if I could find another eyelash. :)

I recently read a blog post about bringing another child (or children) into this world when you just have one. And that God has chosen THIS child to be an older sibling. To teach the younger one(s). To be able to handle maybe a little less attention than before. To be a good role model. It’s making me feel better that Blake is taking on this special big brother role… in just a few days. He’s going to be great!

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