Hetherington House

Bailey's Mardi Gra mask

2012-02-22T00:00:00.000-08:00

Bailey made a mask at school today in celebration of Mardi Gra... She did a great job decorating her mask. She was super excited to show us. Parker wasn't a big fan of it and didn't like it on.
Oh the time's have changed when your 5 year old celebrates Mardi Gra's and you don't even remember it's Fat Tuesday!

Dave's brewing...

2012-02-21T23:42:00.000-08:00

Finally after 15+ years David is all set up and started brewing beer again...it's been since Grad school! We'll see how it turns out...

Parker wanted to help in the brewing process - this was
one of the nights she refused to go to bed. I think I recall
this stage with Bailey.... she's pretty cute.

2012-02-21T23:37:00.001-08:00

Sophia's birthday party was at the Trampoline 'Sky High' location last weekend and it was a blast. Unfortunately Dave couldn't jump but the kid's and I did! We all had so much fun... okay so maybe I had more fun then anyone!
Parker quickly figured out that once someone else started jumping on the same 'square' she was jumping she'd move to a new trampoline. you could jump all around the room and even on the sides of the walls.
Not pictured but also lot's of fun was the foam pit area... Bailey would jump down and do a flip into the foam pit. I didn't see Christie do her double front but it can really bring your skills out!

Bailey and Sophia jumping!

Bailey doing her twirls in the air...

2012-02-14T23:38:00.000-08:00

Bailey started gymnastics this week - she's super excited...now she can put her practice into play. She's been mastering her headstand, backbend, cartwheel, etc...at home. I think Parker is going to want to start now!

I Heart You! Happy Valentines Day...

2012-02-14T23:24:00.001-08:00

We celebrated our Heart day with a yummy dinner and our traditional chocolate fondue served with strawberry's, banana and pineapple. The girls are saying, 'cheers' with some sparkling apple juice!
The cupcakes were from this weekend - which I gladly handed out to a few neighbors (can't have those sitting around here)!
I forgot to capture the 'Valentine's' that Bailey (and family) made for her class - heart book marks... great idea right. But when you need to make 26 Valentines - that's a lot! I think Bailey was done after 5 or so. It made me think how much 'fun' we were suppose to be having making Valentines but to me (and to Bailey) it was a bit of a chore. Maybe I never made any 'Valentine's' when I was a little girl - unless my mom made me!

What we weren't expecting on Valentines Day was to get a Valentine
from Bailey. This super large 'bag' she made for Dave and I was stuffed
with hearts and art pictures and lot's of love. She hid it for us to find and
was super excited to give it to us. I didn't realize your kid's give you Valentines
and I'm sure it doesn't last long but I'll take it. XOXO

What the World Needs Now - Is Love Sweet Love...

2012-02-14T23:06:00.000-08:00

The Amish Project - This is the world we live in.... so STOP and live in it!

2012-02-07T10:55:00.000-08:00

Bailey's new hipster Portland Hair- do (self imposed)

2012-02-05T23:33:00.000-08:00

What a surprise! David wondered why there was hair on the bathroom sink when he went upstairs to see what the girls
were up to... Bailey decided she needed bangs and said, 'now I can see'. She's pretty happy with her new hair cut and
I've tried not to make a big deal about it. We've been using brett's to pull back the other half of bangs she didn't cut and she seems to like. I have a few other photo's on my phone that I wanted to post but in time I think you'll definitely notice the hair cut when I post photo's! Even after several 'talks' on only having 'professional's' and mom cut her hair this is the 2nd time she's cut her hair. She has also cut Parker's hair a little but since Parker hardly has any hair we haven't really noticed too much. Her new hair cut has kind of grown on me and now I can laugh about it - well actually I've laughed about it since day 1 - geez what else can you do. I don't recall me going through this stage but I've heard plenty of other's who have. I'm hoping this time I've hidden the scissors!!!

2012-02-05T23:25:00.000-08:00

I'm feeling like we've been laying low this past month. With Davids foot surgery, it may have slowed us down a bit but all in good timing with winter set in but the weather barely showing winter days. I'm not complaining!
We've had some play dates... rock gym outings (both Parker and Bailey are Rock Stars)!
I'll try and get some video of them rock climbing up sometime soon.
I was feeling like I've been overdue on posting.
What have we been up too? Thinking about life - how to change it, how to travel more, how to spend more time with kid's without quitting our jobs??
We've been looking at used Volvo wagon's - I think we may be getting one this week. we'll see. What a life dilemma I'm feeling.
I loved the old Mercedes, but after 2 accidents (all my own fault) I'm not feeling the mercedes mojo any longer. and we don't want a car payment - we bought the mercedes because we wanted a diesel so we could run bio-diesel (better for the environment) and wanted to support that cause - at a hefty price of course. and now to go back to a 'gas' commuter I'm not feeling good about it. But we don't want a car payment and thus we need to move on and do what works for us. I'll fill you in on what we decide! and in the scheme of things - this simple life dilemma isn't so bad.
Here are a few photo's to share of my girls. I love them so much!

2012-01-15T00:20:00.000-08:00

The kid's have done pretty well with Dave laid up in the living room.
Bailey enjoyed watching movies with Dave most but slept with him a few
nights as well. She was really concerned... Parker didn't know what to think
when Dave first came home with the cast and wrapping on his foot. She screamed and did
not want to be around him. She takes a little time and after a few hours she was a lot better.

Dave after his surgery. All went well... a busy few days last week but
Dave's feeling lot's better and doing good.

2012-01-15T00:14:00.000-08:00

so do you think Parker looks like Dave? Everyone says how much she looks like Dave. Cute!

Bailey and her silly faces...

Bailey and Saidie (live across the street). Bailey is all about Sadie these days.
It's pretty cute and I hope they continue playing so well. They help us out a lot!

Central Oregon for the New Year...

2012-01-15T00:09:00.000-08:00

I got to take Bailey ice skating - she had so much fun. She wanted to go but then when we got there she was refusing to and finally I was able to talk her into 'trying' it and if she didn't like it or wasn't having fun we could leave. Luckily she only took one good spill while on the ice but she was really excited that did pretty good. and she had fun!
We also got up to the mountain and skied one day... it was a nice sunny day and although Bailey didn't do as well with me as she had with Dave last year we still had a fun time. I wish we could (or would) get her up to the mountain more. Next year hopefully!

Happy 2012!

2012-01-15T00:02:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve - The girls dressed up!

Happy New Year... a few days after Christmas we went down to Central Oregon and stayed near Sun River with some
friends in a big house. It was nice for the girls and we got to play a little in the snow. Luckily we had one snow day.
We got back to Portland just in time to watch the Rose bowl game and see the Ducks win!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-23T16:05:00.000-08:00

2011-12-17T00:35:00.000-08:00

This year I'm wanting to get some of those 'craft' pom poms and string them to make 'garland' to wrap around the tree! I think that will be awesome. Now I hope I'll get around to doing it and will have for next year! Enjoy the holiday season!

2011-12-17T00:32:00.000-08:00

About 9 or 10+ years ago in our 1st house, the first time we got a Christmas Tree we realized our handful of ornaments wasn't going to cut it. We ended up having a 'deck the tree' party (or something like that). I bought all of the 'crafts' - and our friends used their creative ways and came up with great ways to decorate the tree! every year since when hanging the ornaments it gives me great laughs and memories of these special ornaments. I've included a few... and we still use the same snowman I made during that same time for our topper! It's a lot of fun and amazing what you or friends come up with.

Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree -

2011-12-17T00:27:00.000-08:00

This year we explored a new tree farm, Christmas Mountain. It was a great tree farm with lot's of tree selection. They had a big tractor they pulled us around on, fire pit, hot chocolate/cider and everyone was very nice and helpful. Such a good vibe. I think we'll go back to this one for sure! We had fun picking the best Christmas Tree! Christmas

'Tis the season...

2011-12-17T00:15:00.000-08:00

While moving at the speed of light during this holiday season we are trying to take time and enjoy the holiday season. With work parties, activities and work - always way too busy!
We're hoping to still hit the Grotto, Zoo lights and Peacock lane... but that's a lot to do within the week! and we're having a holiday party at our house this Saturday - the festivities continue!
We really didn't mean to go see Santa when we were downtown but after going into Macy's there was no turning back. Bailey was all for sitting on Santa's lap but Parker made sure to keep her distance! there was no chance in getting her near him!
Bailey has been funny asking questions about Santa - we had plans to go to this local kid's shop in NE but we decided not to since Bailey was confused why Santa would be somewhere else and since we knew this other Santa wouldn't look like the Santa she saw previously we decided not to mess with it. :)

Blog to Book - Yippee

2011-12-17T00:05:00.000-08:00

Finally - I've been wanting to print the blog for both Bailey and Parker for some time now. On my sabbatical I thought for sure I would finish the project... but Now it's finished and I'm so excited to give a copy of the books to Bailey and Parker. Both individualized - Bailey's is from the start of the blog until Parker was born (3 years) and Parker's is from the time she was born until her 2nd birthday. Aren't they great! Thanks to Blog to Print and my friend Amy who had done this with her blog and gave me the idea. I chose to use the same book style for each of the kid's covers - and started with a photo of them when they were babies and on the back of the books is a photo of them older. I feel like after blogging for these past 5 years - I truly will have something forever documented now.

The Sodrel kid's...

2011-12-03T22:04:00.000-08:00

I can't believe my nephew and niece are 14, 15 & 16! They grew up so fast! Trouble!!!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

2011-11-28T23:13:00.000-08:00

I didn't take any photo's but wanted to make sure to let everyone know how Thankful I am for my family and friends. There's nothing better than snuggling up with my girls and Dave in our bed! Bailey and Parker make me smile everyday and I'm so thankful for them.
Dave made the BEST Pumpkin pie's... I'm thinking that will now be a Hetherington staple every Thanksgiving. We also made rolls and green beans. Dave cooked all morning and I went on a Thanksgiving run and played with the girls.

Parker isn't wearing diapers!

2011-11-28T23:04:00.000-08:00

We are so thankful for Parker not wearing diapers anymore. Parker has been doing really well the past few months but a few weeks ago it had become difficult to get her to wear a diaper and finally we decided to take that big leap and stick to undies. Last week was her first full week of wearing undies to school and she did excellent. Not even an accident! we'll see if that continues but I'm so surprised how well she has done. A girl knows when it's time for undies!
This photo was from 2 weekends ago when we wanted to get out and go for a little hike in the snow - and one of the first longer trips for Parker wearing 'undies'. All successful - well maybe a shorter hike than Dave and I thought we'd do but the kid's decided that for us. The kid's are so 'puffy' in their winter clothes. Especially Parker. So fun!

Rain has come... and snow in the mountains too!

2011-11-22T23:02:00.000-08:00

The girls are ready for the rain! Off to schools we go... now hopefully we'll make it up to the mountain more this year... not looking good for us though. Dave has to have ankle surgery Jan 5th. boo!

Bailey turns 5!

2011-11-14T22:59:00.000-08:00

I'm 5! 'when I was 4 I sucked my thumb, when I'm 5 I'll suck my thumb at
night and when I'm 6 I won't suck my thumb anymore!' We'll see if she starts
working on the part of only sucking her thumb at night. :)
Bailey also say's, 'I can make a wish for my birthday but it won't come true' and I said why not? and she says, 'because that's how it works but it's fun'. ??

The kid's liked their candy necklace that Bailey handed out at the door as the girls came in. Parker had to wear
her cupcake shirt (mamaw got her) since it was for a birthday party.

'Stick the sprinkle on the ice cream cone'. It was a hit....

Bailey liked her ice cream cake we make for her... especially the cherries on top. As we all
sung happy birthday - Bailey began to creep further and further into her seat. She basically
went hiding under the table.

End of the night - Parker started pulling her pants up and Bailey followed! I love my girls!

Bailey's Art

2011-11-10T23:39:00.000-08:00

Bailey has really started drawing more details in her pictures. I love these two she recently drew. There typically is always a family of 4 in her photos! Cute! It's not shown in either of these two drawings but she has put facial hair on Dave's face which is awesome. She likes when he shaves!
Bailey is turning 5 this weekend. I'll post some photo's of her Candy Land party!

Happy Halloween!

2011-11-04T23:40:00.000-07:00

Parker and August trick or treating...

Dad taking the girls out trick or treating...

Pumpkin patch time...

2011-11-01T23:07:00.000-07:00

We've had some really nice fall weather to compliment our pumpkin patch experience this year!

Kai, Bailey, Parker, Sophia & Caitlyn (baby Rylee not pictured)

Parker and Bailey on their first Pony ride... Bailey asked after about 1 minute
are we going anywhere? Is this it? :) Parker seemed to enjoy!

Although we brought our wagon, Parker
ran right over to the wheel barrels supplied
and insisted in riding in it.

And then so did Sophia and Bailey! Fun...

All of the kid's loved this area... maizes, slides and climbing on
hay stacks. What's more fun than that! (besides the pumpkin
launching that I didn't get a photo of but seemed to be more
popular with the adults.

Bailey and Sophia were pretty cute - holding hands after
a big day and collecting their pumpkins.

Say 'pumpkin patch'... we ended up with 21lbs of pumpkins
and lot's of fun...

Victoria, BC

2011-10-17T21:19:00.000-07:00

Taking the ferry from Port Angeles, WA to Victoria, BC - nice ferry ride and it was beautiful outside....
crisp, clear fall day - ferry ride took about 1 1/2 hours.

Grand Pacific Hotel - where we stayed. Very nice hotel right across from ferry and overlooking harbor... very pleasant and kid friendly and the pool was excellent.

Looking out across the harbor from our hotel - towards the 'Empress Hotel'

Several ducks that accompany the hotel - that are fed and they let kid's feed them in the mornings.

The Parliament building

'The Empress' Hotel - the hotel we would have liked to stay in... I love the foliage
growing on the outside of the hotel - especially in the fall time.

The narrowest shopping area in N. America - it does open up a bit more in the middle -
I'm not sure we would have found this on our own.

Peacock at Beacon Park - right in downtown Victoria only a few blocks from the harbor and our hotel.
It had a petting zoo, all kinds of animals roaming around the park (mostly peacocks, ducks, deer, squirrels and birds from what we saw). The kid's loved this park...and there was a nice play park area for the kid's.

Our fall hike in Goldstream - looking for the salmon run... only saw a few baby salmon but
had wonderful weather and nice fall colors.

Bailey's find - a jellyfish when we were checking out one of the coastal
towns - Sooke; looking into the waters with view of the Olympics.

When leaving British Columbia, we took a ferry out of Sydney
to Anacortez, WA. This ferry first stopped at Friday Harbor and made it
a 3 hour ferry ride. But it was perfect for the kid's who napped (Parker) and
it was beautiful outside so we were able to soak in some sunshine and read. Bailey
met a friend on the boat and they played the entire time.

Last stop - outside Seattle visiting the Spraetz family. Bailey isn't in the picture (she was mad).
My last hurrah before heading back to work tomorrow - after my almost 6 week sabbatical. It was
so nice!!! I enjoyed spending time with the kid's....mostly.

Bailey's facial...

2011-10-17T20:40:00.000-07:00

Although Parker is absolutely terrified of me when I put this mask on my face - Bailey decided to join me and we both washed and warm steamed our face and then used my mint 'tingly' facial mask - I don't know that she really enjoyed it but she was a good sport.

Parker is tall... 26lbs, 36" tall.

2011-10-08T00:11:00.000-07:00

I wonder if Parker will continue to be taller than Bailey or if Parker will slow down as she grows older... I wonder... Parker I doing really well potty training. She slept through the night without a diaper on last night and did great. Of course since she got into bed with us, I think I was up every few hours probably thinking she was going to pee on me! She does pretty good when we're 'on it' and at the house. But I'm not yet comfortable taking to far from the house without wearing a diaper.

Parker imitates everything Bailey does. Bailey doesn't mind most of the time but then I hear her say things and know that it frustrates her some. Since I've been off work on my sabbatical these past few weeks, it's been nice hanging with the kid's - I've taken them both to school a few days but not everyday and only for a short part of the day if so. It's NICE!

Parker is starting to talk more and put together sentences. When she is talking about something and really into it that's when I lose her and have no idea what she is talking about but it's so fun to listen to her.

She's becoming very independent - wanting to do everything herself. Dress herself, get her cup for milk or water, fill her cup, put on her shoes and socks.... once again we are working more on Patience!

Parker turns 2!

2011-09-28T23:34:00.000-07:00

Parker got to celebrate her birthday twice - which was good and she was so fun to watch open her presents - she got so excited. She kept wanting to open more presents. First we celebrated her birthday with my parents since they were in town. And then on Sunday we had a big birthday party with some of her friends and did arts and crafts. Parker shared her birthday with her pal Ava who's birthday in just 2 days before Parker's.
Everything was great! Parker has really started talking and saying complete sentences and has been really funny. She makes us laugh daily!

2011-09-28T23:27:00.000-07:00

My parents came out for two weeks and had a great time watching the girls. We were a bit surprised to hear how great the girls did and how busy my folks kept them. I'm sure Dee and Larry were tired when they left though! My neighbors all talked about how nice and great the parents were - so that's good. I'm sure it helped that my dad made his astounding Rum Cake to share with the neighbors.

Italy......

2011-09-28T23:22:00.000-07:00

We arrive in Tuscany - our farmhouse for the week just outside Siena (10 km). My director at work just so happens to have a house in Tuscany and was gracious enough to let us stay there. The rented car for the week maneuvered us around the villages and got us to where we wanted to be! There seemed to be a lot of these cars on the road - mostly racing by us until we figured out the roads.

Looking out of the walls of Siena... beautiful greenery all around the city. A rare sight here - not seeing vineyards lining the hills.

Our first Wine Tour and tasting in Tuscany, Montachino. Also known for their Brunello wines. We tasted several in this area...

The Olive Groves were plentiful. There would be rows and rows (a long with the grape vines) of Olive trees. I learned their Olive season in mostly November - December. Which works out great for the farmers who mostly also harvest wine grapes, which is Sept - Oct so most farmers have both wine and Olive trees.

Florence, Italy - a larger city than most of the villages we visited. Lot's of museums and lots to see and do here in this big city.

One of the many beautiful church's... I liked this one particularly because it captures the large fluffy white clouds and deep blue sky.

Back to Siena for the day - a crazy windy confusing large village where we would get lost in most of all the times we visited (Siena was the closest village to us).

Rome! There are too many great sites here to present.... what a great city
with lot's of character and energy. By the way, as the saying goes, 'all roads
lead to Rome' is true (well when you are in Italy) and 'When in Rome' applies...

2011-09-28T22:47:00.000-07:00

As I mentioned when I went back to Indiana for the weekend, my parents came to Portland - I was home on Sunday night and walking into my kitchen was a great big surprise when I saw the shelves filled with canned tomatoes and apples. We had tomato sauce, canned whole tomato's, salsa, apples and apple sauce. A dream come true - well sort of since I didn't actually do any of the canning. Good thing my folks got me that canning kit for my birthday last year. It came in handy for my mom while she was at the house on Sunday! I really really appreciated all of her hard work. and now I'll need to do a lot of cooking and baking this year!

2011-09-28T22:40:00.000-07:00

Life time of catching up...
Well 20 years and I was debating on going to my 20 year high school reunion, however, to take the time to spend with my girlfriends - you know the ones that you grew up with. that lived around the block from you. the ones that you played sports with... played your first games with. got into trouble with. stood up for you or perhaps didn't! haaa the good 'ole days... although Jena is missing from this picture and a few other girls that didn't make the reunion but the time to hang out with old friends really does make a difference. and really makes you feel like 'really - it's been 20 years since high school?. So weird! I remember my parents attending their 20 year high school reunion so I'm not sure what that means but I didn't like thinking now I was going back to my 20 year high school reunion. I think the best thing I remember about the entire night was how good I thought everyone looked. We're really not that old!
I really appreciate Dave for staying back with the kid's while I took this weekend and did my trip - especially since my parents were flying in the same weekend.

2011-09-07T22:52:00.000-07:00

A perfect sunset for a perfect day at the beach... I normally write 'coast' since the West Coast isn't your typical 'beach' weather but this weekend it was!

It was nice waking up to the beach and sunshine! You know in Pacific City you can't camp - but you can park for 24 hours - a nice fire on the beach in the evening and lot's of 'parking'. :) this was right before I set out for a nice 5 mile run on the beach - and the first time that I have found whole sand dollar shells on the Oregon coast - I guess you just need to get out there early enough before all of the other beach combers get to them. I was so excited and made my run way more exciting!

Camping weekend!

2011-08-29T23:58:00.000-07:00

It was great to get out and do some (what Dave says, 'real camping') in the high mountain lakes area. The weekend was full of surprises with several friends and our neighbors camping with us. The kid's explored the area, meadows, lakes, trails, swimming holes... Bailey loved riding her bikes with the kid's - on gravel roads and no wipe outs! She's become quite the bike rider! She's fast! A nice hike on the Pacific Crest Trail, canoe and kayak rides on the lake... was hard to leave!

Olallie Lake - looking at Mt. Jefferson

2011-08-21T16:29:00.000-07:00

This weekend plans changed from backpacking to staying local. Saturday morning the girls and I got up and took the twins across the street blueberry picking. We had a fun time - and got lot's of blueberry's!

Sauvie's Island, Thursday night music. Hay ride!

while at Sauvie's Island listening to music, enjoying lot's of families and going on a hay ride - we looked up in the sky and noticed a hand glider... I just knew it was our friend Nick. Sure enough it was! His photo he took looking down onto the event site was amazing. It was a great night and the kid's fell asleep on the ride home which made it easy for mom to transfer to bed!

2011-08-21T16:04:00.001-07:00

2011-08-21T16:02:00.000-07:00

Bailey rides her bike - no training wheels!

2011-08-21T16:00:00.000-07:00

Block Party time!

2011-08-16T23:55:00.000-07:00

We live on a special block - lot's of kid's and awesome neighbors. I really have no complaints about our street at all. without much planning - okay none really somehow, at least the past two years we've been in the neighborhood, we had a great block party.
We did a lot of double-dutch jump roping...mostly the adults with was fun but of course some of the kid's would try and this lasted throughout the night even after the sun went down. I was determined to get it but I really didn't at least not at all gracefully!
The kid's got their face painted - the fire truck came down our street, Dave made his big bubbles (and I can't believe I didn't get any photo's of some of the

bbubbles.

Parker and her smile!

I think the big highlight was the movie that we started at dusk. Some of the parents laid down and watched the movie 'Ringo' and they were out 1/2 way through the movie. Most of the other adults gathered around the fire pit in the middle of the street and chatted while the two neighbors played their guitars. Or others hula hooped trying to keep up multiple hula hoops - I think Ethan the 5 year old was the best!
Fun times had by all!

2011-08-16T23:35:00.000-07:00

Lately the way Parker Smiles big! She's been so funny!!!

Typical Parker in the morning... takes her a bit to wake up and normally still wants her milk 'warmed'
in her sippy cup! Yes we still warm her milk!

Last Friday Bailey came to work with me - it was a short day...
After coloring for about 20min. she was ready for something else;
luckily we brought the home computer and loaded up a dvd and she
watched a movie before heading to the rock gym.

After about the 4th time up Bailey made it to the top! Pretty
good... she is strong and brave!

2011-08-16T23:22:00.000-07:00

Bailey's art the last week - she's really been doing a lot of art these last few months. Interesting how that fluctuates and it's definitely at a high right now. She's really creative and likes to cut/glue and apply multiple layers (3d) on her work. I love seeing her stick people mostly... the above picture her and Parker. So cute!

Built in bench seat with table - finished!

2011-08-16T23:12:00.000-07:00

Our neighbor John finished the table to finish off the kitchen built-in bench and table. I have my friend Christy's mom working on some cushions that we'll be able to velcro on the back of the bench seat because there's a lot of 'white space' there.
I'm excited to add that special tough and fabric that I picked!
Although this wood is all OLD wood that was left at the house - you wouldn't know it and John did a really nice job finishing the wood. Do you like? I'm not use to the 'light' wood color but it seems to be a nice addition to the kitchen.

Timothy Lake Camping

2011-08-09T23:27:00.000-07:00

We were lucky enough to meet up with Cesar/Heather (with Olivia) and Heather's parents (whom made reservations 6 months ago for a spot at Timothy Lake).
It was a lot of fun to have nice weather, and your perfect Northwest camping and adventurous weekend.
The water was a little cold - not bad and it was refreshing... Parker did not care for the water. She did however, like the boat and spent a lot of time floating around on the boat.

Our Friend Stacy who doesn't live to far from us in Portland, was stacy at a different camp ground at Timothy Lake - she found us and came and hung out on Saturday for a few hours. Fun! Bailey had fun playing with Stacy and floating in the chair! She did get in the water but didn't go under.

Heather and Olivia checking out the water...

Dave taking an afternoon swim!

Bailey got in the blow up boat and floated for awhile on the water with Dave - cute!

Parker smiling for the photo moment! lovely sunset...

Not all the campgrounds have this view - the first two campgrounds have great views; but the 3rd campground you can see but not much.
Awesome lake and awesome weather. Hoping to get back to this place next year. Don't forget to put in your calendar to check availability in January!

Bailey's Super Strong!

2011-08-09T23:08:00.000-07:00

About 3 months ago, Bailey started working on her head stand - mainly right before going to bed. She would work on balancing and getting her feet in the air. About a month + ago, she finally got it. and now she stands on her head like no problem!
I don't have a photo of Parker but she can successfully do a forward roll all by herself. I think watching Bailey trying to do headstands - made Parker try and roll over. She's just like her sister; strong and likes to climb and jump on things.

NWSS 2011 Music Festival

2011-07-27T22:13:00.000-07:00

The weather was perfect - low 80's; so lot's of sunshine, a small group of friends, camping, kid's art, and MUSIC. I found a new group that I've been listening to non-stop... it's not blue grass - which if you didn't know the Northwest String Summit is not your typical blue grass music festival. It definitely is not traditional blue grass but a big mix with blue grass 'inspired'. Elephant Revival - check them out. I really enjoyed listening to them on Sunday.
Kid's this year - Bailey, Parker, Reece,

Chase, Kai, Sophia and Caitlyn. It was fun to watch them all play together and have fun. Bailey and Reece were everywhere together. Sophia was right there in the mix. Parker and Caitlyn and Kai were entertaining us all as well.
Yonder Mountain put on awesome shows of course - they basically started the NWSS festival so they are always the headliner band. So fun!
Bailey practiced hula hooping and did pretty well. She got it and would hoop for a bit - she would get her arms out and start swinging her hips super fast.

Cute!
I think this music festival is getting bigger - there were lot's of people - more than I remembered in past years. This was the 10th anniversary! We even talked to the car next to us (with Indiana plates) a family that traveled with their kid's road trip style - can you imagine? They weren't camping, staying at Homewood Suites but what cool parents I thought! Crazy but cool. ha

2011-07-27T21:49:00.000-07:00

Rarely have I ran into Parker at work - the kid's on a walk or out playing, etc... but I always know they will be at the farmers' market when we have them on campus. Each of the classrooms get to buy an afternoon snack - strawberries, blueberry's and raspberry's seem to be most popular!
In this case, I was just making into work and walked Bailey to the farmers market to meet up with her class. I love farmer's markets - wherever they are!

2011-07-18T23:10:00.000-07:00

Dave left Sunday afternoon for a work trip up in Goldendale, WA - some sort of 'conference'. He took the van to camp out in...I was thinking what kind of 'conference' is this... this is his view from this guys land - nice view of Mt. Adams and I guess Mt. Hood was in view as well. I'm still wondering about this work conference! I guess it's 'low energy' - no hotels, people camp and lot's of social time!

As we often do in the evenings during summer time - here are the girls eating their dinner on the front porch. Tonight was especially fun because two of the neighbors were also eating dinner on their front porch. And the it was Kid play time! Parker likes to hang with the big kid's now - she chases them and they love it when she chases them. They are pretty good with her. Parker is finally just now reaching out to a few neighbors and letting them pick her up - finally it's been almost 2 years!

2011-07-18T23:03:00.000-07:00

Bailey and Parker both had lot's of fun playing with Ava's toy's. Both the girls liked playing the drum... they would dance, use the shakers and play the drums. Ava was very nice to share all of her toys with the girls. We need to get us one of those drums!

We had a fun evening over at the Gentle's house visiting with Allison who was in town for a quick trip from California. We love hanging out with Allison... it was a small group and after it got too late and the guys took the kid's home, I got to hang for a bit with my girlfriends - enjoying a nice fire outside that John built us and drinking some vino. :)

2011-07-13T01:24:00.000-07:00

On Friday, we hosted a Happy Hour Baby Shower for our friends Tim and Jocelyn who are expecting their first baby in only a few weeks! Bailey spent this past week at school working on a project for them. It was really cute and so thoughtful... it was a mobile. Jocelyn is going to take a photo of it once it's up so I will show you. Bailey's teacher told me she probably spent 4 hours on the project!
I was really impressed and realized that if she focus's she CAN do anything. Her teachers went on to tell me how creative she is and that they would miss her after she moves into the other class room in a few weeks.
During our 'Happy Hour Baby Shower' I did incorporate a game for all... well actually I think I only let the adults play but I should have included the kid's as well. I bought little cans of play dough and everyone had to make a baby within 10 min. or so. Everyone did such a great job - they were totally into it. I must say we have some creative friends!
Again Bailey surprised me and added a 'baby carrot' into the mix. Can you spot the baby carrot on the tray? Tim and Jocelyn got to pick their favorite baby - the yellow baby 'wrapped in a blanket' was the Winner! Mrs. Heather V.

The Sodrel kid's...

2011-07-13T01:15:00.000-07:00

I still can't believe my sister has 3 kid's that are teenagers! Zeke, Katelynn, Jackson!
Such a funny age...
We miss them!

Happy 4th of July!

2011-07-13T01:11:00.000-07:00

Dave's family out on their boat celebrating the 4th of July! Can't miss them on the lake!!

That bell looks official - I wonder where it came from. I bet there's a story behind that bell.

With all of the traveling for work we'd been doing - Dave got back on Saturday morning so we decided to stick around town and catch up on some house things (boring) and lucky for us our neighbors closed the street so the kid's had full run of the place. There were several streets closed in Portland, we rode our bikes to friends, Amy and Jason to hang with them while they also were celebrating the 4th of July and their street was unofficially closed. The sprinkler was on, Jason had an amazing spread of food, I even tried the grilled oysters on the shell. I think he calls them, 'Oyster all-of-drews'. Drews is Amy and Jason's last name! Fun!

Finally at 10:30 the fireworks slowed for us - but not for anywhere else in the city! We really should have the day after the 4th a holiday as well.

and all I got was these Cowboy hats from Texas!

2011-07-13T01:04:00.001-07:00

June 29, 2001 - 10 Year Anniversary!

2011-07-13T01:03:00.000-07:00

10 official married years! A decade come and gone. We had high hopes of putting together a new music play list and sending everyone that attended our wedding a '10th anniversary' cd - but like some good ideas - they stay at the 'idea' phase. 10 Birthdays each, Dave's 40th birthday, A new career adventure for Dave, 2 kid's, 10 years at Nike for me, one dog we put down in 2007 and 4 chickens later... Life seems so simple when you break it down.

Dave was needed in Austin, TX over our anniversary - his company flew me down to Austin to spend the evening with Dave and celebrate our 10 year anniversary. Yes, I spent almost as much time on the plane than I actually did in Austin but it was worth it! Dave lined up 3 sitters for our overnight adventure - I was ready to stay home; seemed like way too much work for just one night! however, he was determined and made it happen. If you ever visit Austin - I think we stayed at the best hotel around.

It was awesome! Hotel San Jose - I liked everything about it - it definitely had that hipster vibe but in a good way.

Hotel San Jose
1316 South Congress Avenue
Austin, Texas 78704
(800) 574-8897
www.sanjosehotel.com

Everything is living... this hotel seemed very 'green' with the living green spaces, rain chains, concrete floors in the rooms, etc... I loved walking through the green gardens.

Although I wouldn't call Austin a 'bike friendly' city - we did notice bike lanes were in the process of being painted and incorporated into the city streets. We knew with limited time - the best city viewing would be by bicycle!

Just down the street from the Hotel San Jose, the Congress street bridge, we were able to view one of the local attractions... every night at dusk 1.5 million bats escape from under the bridge for an evening feeding. There's a bat hot line you can even call that updates when 'dusk' will be each night.

We took the Town Lake pathway which is basically a lightly graveled large pathway a long the Colorado River which runs through the city.

We rode on the to check out Barton Springs - a natural fed hot spring pool. If we had more time we definitely would have checked this place out. and from my understanding even in the winter the water stays around 72 year round.

We ate at a pretty good Texas style restaurant in the Warehouse district of town.

We checked out 6th street - lot's of pubs and restaurants and music.

After dinner and checking out the scene on 6th street and around downtown, we made our way back to the hotel (dj was playing music outside on the patio) and headed across the street to the Continental Club - which is basically the granddaddy of all music venues in Austin. Perfect and it's right across the street from the hotel! We watched the first part of the midnight show... and then 6am came too soon. and I was picked up at 7am and back to the airport.

A memorable 10th anniversary!

Thank you Dave for 10 great years and cheers to many more!

Garden is doing GREAT!

2011-07-13T00:03:00.001-07:00

I thought I uploaded some photo's of our garden but they must still be on one of the camera's - If anyone has been to our house, since moving in we really hadn't done much to the outside of the house. In the front of the house there were several rose bush plants in the front beds. We took all of them out (a long with the 30+ rose plants in the backyard) and decided to plant our garden in the front beds since our summer plans this year was to redo the back yard.
We planted; Chard, brussel sprouts, Bok choy (didn't do well - bugs got), tomato's, onions, leeks, peppers and a few additions that must have been included in one of the plants is a zucchini plant we think and perhaps a pumpkin! We contemplated removing them after the leaves started getting tremendous (pumpkin) but we've decided to let them go and see what happens. We know they will take over but I just think it would be cool to grow a pumpkin or whatever it is!
The chard leaves are Huge and doing great. the 5 tomato plants are doing great and a few are really big. I'll plan to upload some photo's soon!

Yummy Chard! Kid's aren't into the chard...

I love these wine barrels we picked up sometime ago - one is being used for herbs (basil, thyme, parsley, rosemary and cilantro) and the other is being used for lettuce. I finally just planted the lettuce!

Parker 21 months

2011-07-12T23:51:00.000-07:00

She's still mama's girl! Parker isn't talking much - still saying words and putting a few words together but understands everything.

Time to catch up!

2011-07-12T23:46:00.000-07:00

It's the longest in almost 5 years from starting this blog that I haven't posted - an entire month!
I always start form the past to present on the over due posting's so with that I will start with our trip to Indiana... it was a busy month for work in June from Prefontaine to Global marketing meetings then to Indiana and back to Eugene for US Outdoor Championships. I guess June is always busy but never remember how busy it is until you go through it!
Indiana - not many photo's were taken this trip... some unforeseen happenings on the trip and then off to Hetherington Family Camp for the weekend.

My brother Chris' kid's - Preston, Nolan and Elijah

Katelynn and boyfriend!

Katelynn turns Sweet 16! SURPRISE!

My brother Chris and Jasmine

Bailey and cousin Gretchen - Gretchen was the announcer at the talent show at family camp! She was great! hilarious!

Parker wearing the tutu and headband that her aunt Angie got both Bailey and Parker - unfortunately they would have been perfect to wear on the 4th of July but could not get them to wear them! :)

2011-06-12T00:56:00.000-07:00

Parkers' hair is finally starting to grow! Look at all her hair...

Camping Lake Billy Chinook

2011-06-12T00:54:00.000-07:00

We followed the sun Memorial day weekend - after a few days of contemplating where to camp... and even thinking for a moment that a house on the coast sounded nice.... that would be way to easy.
We decided to stick with tradition and head over the mountain pass to central Oregon to Lake Billy Chinook area and camp. We did bring all of our rain gear since everywhere else in Oregon and Washington was raining but we lucked out and No Rain. However, it did hail on us for a few minutes Saturday morning before the sun quickly came out -

Camping at the coast...Cape Lookout

2011-05-22T22:17:00.000-07:00

It had been too long since we had last camped or gotten away for a night - we had been talking about it all week (which helps a lot if you truly want to get out)... we made it happen. Even though after getting home Friday night from the play with Bailey (9:30...) and me feeling exhausted and just wanted to go to bed - Dave had already started packing the van and was fired up about heading out which helped me get fired up and before too long we were out the door kid's in the car seat and soon fast asleep... an evening drive for a few hours to the coast - Cape Lookout final destination.
It was great - weather was decent with even a few sunshine breaks - and it was so nice to wake up to the outdoors and hang out all day on the coast. Kid's were exhausted by 5ish after an early dinner and perfect time to pack them up for the drive back to Portland. Dave even made it back in time to get the grass cut and run a few errands in preparation for this next weeks camping trip! The best part was we still had Sunday!

One of the firsts' the kite didn't make it up in the air - No Wind at the coast!
Which made the temperature actually nice when the sun wasn't out.

Parker walked around with this bucket stuck on her foot for awhile - she kept laughing...

until she couldn't get the bucket off her foot!

After an early lunch we went to Pacific City (one of my favorite places to visit on the coast) - and still not very built up.
The sun came out and Bailey and Dave headed to the water... well at least they got their feet wet!

Snow White - the play

2011-05-22T21:58:00.000-07:00

Bailey and the Wicked witch (Diedra, friend who is dating our neighbor)...
some time ago we joined, GoldStar - basically offers discount tickets to theater. Much like 'Groupon'
if you are familiar with that site. There are some good deals and the tickets for the play
were basically 1/2 off and very easy and simple and I was wondering how the seats would be and they
were good! I'm sure it depends on the show - I'll have to use again and see how the seats are.

Bailey and I put on a cute dress and went to the play...
After a long work week, it was fun to hang with Bailey and
take her to a play (1st time for me - Dave took Bailey to her first play).
She was a little nervous at the beginning - she kept asking about the witch and if
she was scary and when was she going to come out. But as you can tell from the photo
above she didn't look all that scary. Bailey really liked the play and It really kept me engaged.

Future photographer?

2011-05-15T01:14:00.000-07:00

Bailey enjoys either picking up my phone or the small camera we have to take photo's. I've been letting her regularly use my phone which entertains her for but I think she actually takes some decent photo's for a 4 year old!
Mozzy is Jared's dog. and then her Easter animal set, tulips, and then I have no idea how she arranged the final photo using the computer screen.
She must be ~~talented~~!

2011-05-15T01:08:00.000-07:00

Bailey and Michelle... and then Bailey below with all of her flowers - she was a 'flower child'. cute!

something to blog about...

2011-05-15T01:00:00.000-07:00

We were over at our neighbors for 'happy hour' - as the nice weather is hitting and the lighter longer days, more time to spend outside and an easy way to end a week of work. Typically neighbors take turns hosting happy hour throughout the summer - one neighbor hangs a fish out to represent happy hour is on at their house or another neighbor has a flag. we still haven't found our 'symbol' but maybe this summer we'll figure out something fun to represent our family.
Tonight we had our first broken window experience with Bailey and our neighbor's window - uh oh!
this time it was 'our' kid! ha
The story.... Bailey and Evelyn we're playing in Evelyn's yard and for some reason were checking out the side of their house and after awhile when some adults hadn't heard or seen the kids' for awhile Dave went to check on them and found them staring at the glass window and knew something wasn't right. Bailey saw a big spider (daddy long leg) and decided to big up a rock (a rather large rock) and throw it at the spider, which was crawling on the window. and well - what happens when you throw a rock at a window?

Happy Easter

2011-04-24T21:48:00.000-07:00

Easter morning - clouds and rain... not like our sunny and 70 yesterday! However our cool cats still wanted to wear their shades.

After going to the wrong church - instead of meeting up with Amy's family at their church we ended up meeting them at their house for a lovely brunch with lot's of good food and a cranky baby! Amy and Jason are great at entertaining... you know those people that you wonder how they get it all to work out right without being stressed and enjoying themselves. ha I'm sure she'll read this so I won't go on and on about her. But we've enjoyed this tradition of spending time with Amy and her family - the last 4 years. Thanks for taking us in!

I went for a run yesterday and ran to a small chocolate shop on Beaumont in SE and found these yummy looking treats (big marshmallows dipped in chocolate with sparkle sprinkles on top. I think the thought of them was actually better than them eating them. This morning Bailey's favorite part of the day was finding Easter eggs throughout the house. She could have cared less about her Easter Basket. :) A good note for myself for next year.

Tulip Festival

2011-04-24T21:32:00.000-07:00

A nice day for the Tulip Festival - I love going and seeing all of the beautiful fields of tulips, farm, mountain views on a clear day - which is sometimes hard to come by in April. Although I think I decided that I probably wouldn't go again by myself with both kid's for a long, long time. :)

Happy Earth Day!

2011-04-22T11:31:00.000-07:00

The best part about celebrating Earth day is that there are many ways to honor the planet. From the grandiose to the simplistic, here are a couple of ways to have an impact on the planet that you call home.

- Plant a tree
- Brush your teeth without running water
- Carpool.
- Sign petition for Green Jobs Legislation.
- Commit to recycling in your home and office
- Donate clothes and toys to the Salvation Army
- Eat more locally grown food
- Start a garden
- Bring reusable shopping bags to the grocery store.

If it's nice outside like it is here in Portland, OR have a picnic!

Parker's ART - 18 months at her schools Art Show

2011-04-22T00:22:00.000-07:00

Parker doesn't appear to be liking paint as much as Bailey did.. she is very careful when she paints and does not like getting her hands dirty. I was having a difficult time getting Parker to stand near her picture she painted but offering her a cracker seemed to work. That's how I've been getting her into her car seat after picking her up from school too.

Bailey's found the photo booth

2011-04-22T00:17:00.000-07:00

Bailey has really enjoyed using the 'photo booth' option on the computer. Here are just a few to show you what we're talking about. There are different effects you can apply as you can tell Bailey loves to be silly.

Happy Spring!

2011-04-22T00:08:00.000-07:00

Dave picked great
tulips from our backyard - a big project we need to start spending some time on. This is one of Bailey's new dresses and I think she will wear Easter but we'll see.... fun, fun.

Although maybe not the best solution but I did figure out quickly that by giving the girls' suckers that will entertain them for minutes without uninterrupted conversation, etc... It's truly been great!

Last weekend when Bailey and I did some shopping, I stopped by Crate n barrel to pick up 2 chairs we ordered that match our bar stools and while I was up at the counter I found Bailey enjoying herself on the 'lawn chair' in the store flipping through a magazine.

Also last weekend, I wanted to go for a run and go on a bicycle ride but time did not allow so I chose to run and luckily Dave rode the bike and pulled the girls in he burly during my whole run. it was awesome and I ran the fastest I've ran all year!!

This next photo is something we did last weekend as well... making homemade Kombucha - if you're

not familiar with Kombucha and would like try some I will soon have a new 'starter' and plan to use it and add more tea to make more Kombucha.

Bailey and Stella playing 'dress up' at Stella's house. They are pretty cute playing together!

Parker 18 months -

2011-04-21T23:44:00.000-07:00

A little late in posting Parker's 18 month's information... she is getting so tall and starting to put a few words together. She is using the potty in the evening sometimes. Parker is a happy little baby with that same familiar stubbornness that I remember with Bailey when she was about this age.
Parker - Weighed in at 23.5lbs, 34 3/4" long (she's pretty tall for the 'average' 100 babies). She loves to put on different people's shoes... we were outside playing across the street at the neighbors and Parker had the basketball was trying to dribble the ball and Dave was bouncing a basketball and she was so focused on trying to figure it out and playing with Dave. It was so cute and wished I had gotten the action on video - i've been terrible at picking up the video camera. Click here to view Bailey at 18 months and do some comparing if you'd like.

Toddler Rules of Possession

2011-04-11T21:36:00.000-07:00

If I like it, it's mine.

If it's in my hand, it's mine.

If I can take it from you, it's mine.

If I had it a little while ago, it's mine.

If it's mine, it must NEVER appear to be yours in anyway.

If I'm doing or building something, all the pieces are mine.

If it looks just like mine, it is mine.

If I saw it first, it's mine.

If you are playing with something and you put it down, it automatically becomes mine.

If it's broken, it's yours.

Parker is in that toddler stage and living the toddler rules of possession... I felt this was too appropriate.

Parker is loving imitating... whether you or someone else that gets her attention but mostly Bailey.

First hike of the spring!

2011-04-11T00:45:00.000-07:00

Although we were hoping for sunny sky's for our first spring hike, and even traveling just past Hood River we thought we'd have better luck but not so much... we drove out to Mosier, OR to do a hike but it was super windy - luckily a gal there recommended a spot on the other side of the Columbia in WA but only about 5 miles away - Catherine's Creek. Much better... started out a little windy but than quickly mellowed out once we got around the bin. The wind didn't bother either Bailey or Parker... Parker had so much fun getting out and walking around - she did great walking for about 45 minutes. Bailey would run fast up the trail and then turn around and run back, waiting for us. Back and forth...

Even without much sunshine, you can't beat the Columbia Gorge views... such a beautiful spot.

It was nice to get out and finally get our camera out and take some photo's. The spring wild flowers have started but I'd bet in a few weeks they will really start peaking. Here are a few different flowers we s saw a long the hike.

Bailey liked crossing the creek... she went back and forth a few different times. She wanted to take Parker on the log crossing but we let her know you can never be too careful!

After about 45 min or more Parker finally did this too many times and we decided it was time to go in the Ergo. She didn't seem to mind quickly after I got her in.

Towards the end of the hike on our way back... both of the girls were out! This is a really good hike to do with kid's, pretty flat and with the different scenery, river and arches. We went into the small town of White Salmon, WA for a late lunch. A perfect weekend day and a great way to spend time with the family.

2011-04-10T23:54:00.000-07:00

Parker continues to do and want everything that Bailey does. We definitely didn't give Bailey as many treats as we've been giving Parker at a year and a half. I've made sure to stock up on honey sticks - seems like a better treat than other candy. We love them! I'm thinking for Easter bring on the honey sticks and maybe a few pieces of dark chocolate!

Cherry Blossom time

2011-04-04T22:09:00.000-07:00

This weekend we had a break in the weather and Dave and I and the kid's took the bikes to the waterfront where all of the cherry tree's are in full bloom. I love this time of year seeing all of the tree's in the pinks and whites surround us. The Race for the roses had just finished up and the market was going so there was lot's of action on the waterfront. A fun morning!

These are the faces you typically see when asked, show us your funny face! Parker's came about after Pappy and Grammy were visiting and since then always seems to bring it out time and time again.

I'm surprised we got Parker to keep her headband on for more than a few minutes. She was into the camera though and giving us big smiles and funny faces. I couldn't get Bailey to take her socks off her hands - so if you look closely that is what is on her hand. Funny. Her hands got cold on the bike ride. Nothing like using socks to keep them warm - I think I remember doing that when I was a kid!

2011-04-04T22:00:00.000-07:00

Bailey and Parker getting ready to head to the festival - and we some some blue sky's... they came and went throughout the day.

Ryan a friend of a friend, took some cherry blossom twigs and made 'Betsie' into them. super cool.

We had a kid's corner with Face painting and arts and crafts. Luckily my neighbor Maryann came and is an excellent kid's face painter. much better than me.

John (and Kara and Scott) lined up the bands for the day/night. Love live music...

The barn was two floors, lower level was a kid's play area with a bunch of hay stacks to climb and play on. big kid's only down there!

Parker and I danced and danced... bailey did too but not as much with me!

Bailey and dad hanging at the camp fire listening to music. Overall a fun event and a good way to celebrate Betsie and life in journal.

A Celebration of Life...

2011-03-26T01:23:00.000-07:00

Betsiefest Northwest is this Saturday/Sunday.

What is Betsiefest Northwest? "It is a day of music, food sharing, and family fun to honor the life of Betsie Och.

Betsiefest is all about getting together with kind, like-minded folks that love music and having fun outdoors. It is a family friendly event for a community of folks that respect one another, and enjoy celebrating life." John wrote.

Our friends John, Scott, Tim and other's have been lining up bands - here's the line up for Saturday! I'm so proud to be a part of such a great circle of friends.

Saturday - 4/26c

...2:00 - 4:30pm -Rabbitfoot String Band
http://www.myspace.com/rabbitfootstringband

5:00 - 7:00pm - Dismal Niche Orchestra
http://www.dismalnicheorch.com/

7:30 - 9:30pm - Bahttsi
http://www.bahttsi.com/

9:30 - 10:30pm - Acoustic fireside jam session

10:30 - 12:30pm - Middleman
http://vimeo.com/groups/pdxmusic/videos/6526472

I'll post some photo's of the event hopefully next week.

We're all really excited this has come together and hopefully will start a nice tradition and more people that want to celebrate life will join in!

The weather is looking like showers but I guess what can you expect in March here in the Pacific Northwest!

2011-03-25T00:08:00.000-07:00

Parker is enjoying riding on top of the stroller!! Typically Bailey takes the top seat but lucky for Parker she was able to try it out - and she loves it up there.

Kai, Scott and Bill (Scott's dad) was over for dinner this past weekend and Kai and Parker were fun to watch playing. So cute! I can't wait to see them run around this weekend.

2011-03-24T23:58:00.000-07:00

Always happy in the bath tub!

Although Parker loves to dump water out of the tub.

Parker is definitely moving into toddler hood.... she's been off her afternoon bottles since her 1st birthday but she's been having a morning and early evening bottle until this week. I figured since she is now 18 months - we'd better start the inevitable before the pediatrician tells us too! So no more evening bottles starting this week.

Parker has been sitting on her potty and letting us know (inconsistently) when she needs changed. It's so exciting!

Sleeping...

2011-03-24T23:49:00.000-07:00

Sometimes Bailey wants to sleep with Parker on the bottom bunk. Normally it doesn't work out and although she may start there - typically it's either Bailey getting frustrated with Parker and moving to her top bunk or me getting frustrated and have Bailey move somewhere else so Parker will go to sleep. However, there are times when they do fall asleep (for awhile at least) and this is one of the photo's I couldn't pass up - and was wondering when one of them would wake up from their unusual sleeping position.

Sleeping has always been a challenge for our family. and I think we gave up on 'sleep training' and roll with it each night. We have a routine and both girls are in bed around the same time each night but Bailey normally doesn't want to go to bed at night - especially by herself. Normally we lay down with her in our bed and then move her to her bed which she has been sleeping in her bed all night. For Parker we put her down and sit or lay next to her bed until she falls asleep and then sneak out. Parker wakes up every night 2, 3 times and sometimes ends up in our bed. The fun of non-sleeping kids! I do love laying next to them and can't complain about that!

Positive Thinking

2011-03-10T12:52:00.000-08:00

Dave and I go back and forth on this topic - he is the 'positive' thinker in the family and I always say I'm the 'realistic' thinker. However, I'm trying to 'change' the way I think. There are so many studies out there of how impactful positive thinking can be. All of those motivational speakers, life coaches, therapists, psychologists, etc... I can only imagine this is what they try and encourage you to do.
Did you know that by practicing positive self-statements, the words you repeat eventually become how you really think about yourself. Its a very powerful method used for thousands of years, across religions and cultures and sports... this is something one of our athletes at Nike has communicated to me. I personally see/hear/feel this in practicing yoga but more and more I see/hear/read about it and have to agree how important it is to practice thinking this way. Kind of like - you are what you eat; in addition how you think about things (life) will represent how you feel.
P.S. If the mind is a garden with limited space, we must actively pull the weeds and plant/nurture flowers for it to thrive...that is where the flowers came from.

2011-03-07T00:35:00.000-08:00

Caitlyn turned 1 this week and we helped her celebrate on Friday night - it was a fun party and good food from Christy and Brad and the dance party at the end of the night was the best part!

We got a glimpse of some nice weather and took advantage of it and was able to get out for a bike ride. Ending with a great dinner at NoHo's Hawaiian Cafe on Fremont. Yummy! And best part of it for the parents out there; kid's under 5 eat free! I think we'll be taking more bike rides there going forward.

Timberline Lodge

2011-03-07T00:26:00.000-08:00

I didn't pull my camera out much (seems to be a trend lately) but we did manage to get a few photo's - Grammy and Pappy enjoyed the snowy drive up to Mt. Hood; Timberline lodge. The mountain's been getting hit with lots of snow which is neat to see all of the snow but when I was up there weeks before I woke up to clear sky's like this one photo and it's such a different experience. Both very dramatic... love the mountain lodge feel.

2011-03-07T00:06:00.000-08:00

Dave's 80's party for his big 40: I wanted to put a slide show together with some sort of 80's music playing perhaps - The Warrior since Lindsey broke it out and did a fine job singing! Hilarious!

2011-02-28T22:50:00.000-08:00

The photo of Parker making her funny face has been a staple these past few days. Especially when Pappy does it first - Parker will follow.

2011-02-28T22:37:00.000-08:00

Cute Pajamas from Grammy... and we've been doing a little bit of decorating since we got the Ikea bunk bed. Parker sleeps on the bottom bunk and Bailey on top. It seems to be working out pretty well - most of the time Parker sleeps in her bed and some of the time Bailey sleeps in her bed. Sometimes Bailey sleeps with Parker and sometimes she ends up in our bed. Family sleeping at it's finest.

After seeing several 'wall decals' these past few months I really liked these that I found at Target and really wasn't looking for them. We made a 'reading' area with the bean bag and pillows in the corner with the 'tree decal'. I still want to find some sort
of wall light to hang to provide more lighting in the corner. Bailey now loves to jump from the top bunk and Parker continues trying to climb the ladder up. I'm sure one day soon we're going to find her on the top bunk.

Grammy and Pappy are visiting...

2011-02-28T22:32:00.000-08:00

Grammy and Pappy (Dave's folks) came into town to help celebrate Dave's 40th Birthday and to visit with the girls of course. They made into town just in time for our big snow (1") when the Portland Public schools closed and cold weather for the week!

Sadly I haven't picked up my camera much and need to get a photo of the kid's with them before the leave on Wednesday! It's been so nice having them in town and to have a few more helping hands. Playing with the kid's, dinner and watching the kid's while Dave and I has been such a treat!

Awesome 80's Prom Event

2011-02-25T23:56:00.000-08:00

We had to do something 'memorable' to celebrate Dave's 40th Birthday... He took his own 'guys' trip to visit Justin in Vermont but I wanted to do something here with some of our friends - and with much debate, it was decided to attend this 'Awesome 80's Prom Event' on the Portland Spirit (large boat) that travels down the Willamette River docking in Downtown. After the emails and planning there's a group of 23 which I can only imagine what people are going to come up with to wear. We're decking out in full 80's gear - but the event is tomorrow let's just say we're still looking for something to wear.

I felt this was fitting since Dave did graduate in 1989 and since most of you that are reading this blog know that Dave and I go way back... we went to prom together in 1989!

More photo's to come...

Dave turns 40!

2011-02-25T23:43:00.000-08:00

I felt a few photo's to look back on Dave's 40 years was appropriate. I wish I could have taken more time on this and thanks to Linda for sending me some photo's.

I have a handful of photo's I still need to get scanned of our own. That didn't happen for this collection!

Quinn and Linda arrived into town on Wednesday night with attempting to surprise Dave for his birthday but not really - since I kind of gave it up and him seeing a few emails but it was on the 'down low' so although it wasn't necessarily a surprise I don't really think Dave knew for sure when, etc...

We celebrated his birthday at home with the family and Linda fixing most of the dinner and Dave's favorite Upside Down Pineapple Cake!

The Easiest Green Cleaning Recipes You Can Make at Home

2011-02-24T11:10:00.000-08:00

The Easiest Green Cleaning Recipes You Can Make at Home

I felt these easy and inexpensive cleaning methods and recipes would be great to share!
I often forget about some of these and typically use vinegar and water on most everything. but I think I'll try the baking soda and kosher salt on the tile!

Happy Cleaning!

Happy Valentines Day!

2011-02-14T22:29:00.000-08:00

A few songs that we've been enjoying... I was super excited to see Mumford and Son's on the Grammys last night!

Happy Valentine's Day! Did you treat your family to something special today? We had our 'Valentine' dinner last night - and had dipped chocolate strawberries for dessert tonight. Bailey used her stamps and made a few Valentines for the neighbor kid's - lucky for me she only wanted to do a few. Bailey's classroom had a Valentine's Day party today and I hopefully will be able to wait until Bailey is in kindergarden before having to do 'classroom' valentines. I'm not very patient when it comes to crafts with the kid's. :)

2011-02-14T22:28:00.002-08:00

Bailey and Parker had their Valentine's tee's on today~ I like Parker's tee that reads, 'Live in Love'... and of course 'Daddy's Girl' for Bailey.

Parker's hair is starting to grow finally - a cute photo of her after bath time! She is really trying to express herself and getting louder by the minute. Parker has been saying 'mama' a lot and now has 'dada' down. We are now

working on 'Bailey'. She'll say some animal sounds but really hasn't been getting too vocal with her animal sounds.

Parker has also been sitting on the 'potty'. and has actually used the potty a few times. She seems to be interested in the potty and is understanding when she goes. Bailey is conversationally funny. Tonight she told me she 'gave up' chicken. Doesn't like it anymore. And when Dave showed Bailey something he made for her to hang her dress up clothes on it was painted purple and she said she also gave up purple. :)

Ziggy Marley - Love is My Religion (Acoustic Version)

2011-02-14T22:28:00.000-08:00

Mumford & Sons - Winter Winds

2011-02-14T22:20:00.000-08:00

Dave's Winter beard

2011-02-12T23:58:00.000-08:00

I think this is the longest Dave has gone without shaving. Since November (Movember - mustache month) he's been growing his beard. Once end of November came he liked it so much he didn't want to depart just yet. He decided he would keep it until his big 40 birthday which is coming up very soon. This image really doesn't do it justice... WOW!

Delicious - really!

2011-02-10T23:00:00.000-08:00

Gluten-free, vegan chocolate chip YUMMY cookies and I can't wait to make without using 'Bob's Red Mill Almond Flour' because that's what we used and we just realized the recipe specifically says their almond flour won't work. ha!

Gluten-free, dairy-free and vegan, these are a sweet snack any time of the day! Note: Bob's Red Mill Almond Flour will not work with this recipe.

SERVINGS
24 cookies

INGREDIENTS
2 1/2 cups blanched almond flour
1/2 teaspoon celtic sea salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 cup grapeseed oil
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup agave nectar
1 cup dark chocolate 73%

PREPARATION
1. Combine dry ingredients in a large bowl.
2. Stir together wet ingredients in a smaller bowl .
3. Mix wet ingredients into dry.
4. Form 1/2-inch balls and press onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Bake at 350 degrees F for 7-10 minutes.
6. Cool and serve.

2011-02-03T23:25:00.000-08:00

while dave and bailey were skiing; parker and I played in the snow - at least for awhile and sat outside near the lodge to enjoy the sunshine and try to get glimpses of Bailey on the mountain. Our group of friends that were also staying in sunriver were all out and about sledding and we all met up at the end of the day. Fun weekend!

Bailey's mountain debut - Successful!

2011-02-03T23:17:00.000-08:00