Yep-That just happened

Skype Fun

2012-01-23T15:32:00.000-08:00

We were skyping w/ my parents last night and Chase held this mask up to their heads and it was the perfect size and just cracked me up. Captain Cody Dad.

Captain Cody Mom.

Surviving more sick days!

2012-01-23T15:29:00.000-08:00

We have had our fair share of sickness in this house. I seem to have a cold weekly, and last week was, well, hell. Me and all 3 kids had strep throat. The sick stomach, sore throat, hacking cough kind. We were all miserable! Since the kids missed school most of the week and I was a grouch we got creative in keeping busy. Eliza spent some quality time in the broom closet. She calls it her jail and will sit and drink a sippy cup and hang out for 10 min. stretches. ha!

Dried split peas make for good construction vehicle play. Man it was a mess-but worth the quiet time! Plus the vacuum sucks it right up.

Little sick rosey cheeks.

The boys had a battle like no other. They're dressed for school b/c I kept thinking they felt better and sent them to school only to have them come home a few mins (literally) or hours later. I wasn't using good judgement at all b/c I wasn't feeling well and wanted to sleep all day. Woops!

Chase came to me one day and said he wanted to make a pirate ship from a banana. Go for it dude. It was really cute. Ty in the background? Not so much.

He insisted I take a pic of the jolly roger he drew. Cute!

Eliza and Dolly

2012-01-23T15:23:00.000-08:00

Eliza has suddenly become very interested in her dolly's. Here she is w/ her "baby bjorn."

Feeding baby.

Woops! I'll have to teach her about neck injuries. But really-it's so fun watching her instinctively take care of babies like a mommy. Love it!

Farewell to the crib

2012-01-23T15:19:00.000-08:00

In mid-December I was washing the sheets to Eliza's crib and they weren't done by nap time. So I said she could sleep on the full-size bed that's in her room for guests. She was thrilled and she did a great job. She didn't leave her bed at all. So then that night she wanted to sleep there again. And she has since then. So after Christmas we took the crib down. It was really sad b/c it's been up since 2003, but her room is so big now!

All 3 of my babies slept in this crib. cue tear drops...

Chase was a great helper unscrewing.

Christmas

2012-01-23T15:15:00.000-08:00

This year we spent Christmas w/ Phil's mom in her new house in Doylestown. We had a great time and she spoiled us all. It's nice to have her live right in town. So we spent some time at the Doylestown Bookstore. Here's Chase chilling in the magazine section. He's looking at a bunch of women's mags. Great.

Ty, Eliza and Hunter chilled in the kids section reading and doing puzzles.

Chase finally found a kids book!

Chillin'

Christmas Eve in their cute jammies!

We forgot to bring "Twas the Night Before Christmas" which is a tradition, so we read it on the internet.

The stockings hung by the family photos with care.

Christmas morning! Santa came!

Eliza got super girly stuff from Santa.

The boys got super sport stuff!

A hideous monster and her children coming down the stairs. For the record I got sick and literally didn't sleep that night. Gag.

Eliza checking it all out.

Ty loving his new Phillie's hat and jacket.

Her Rapunzel doll she calls "Tangled."

Phil was sooo excited to give the boys NFL Sticker books. They love them!

This kills me. My sister Jackie found this costume months ago and I was so excited to give it to Chase. He loved and still loves it. He wore the hat to school the other day. My awesome aviator.

Looking at baseball cards.

Another ridiculous gift that made him so happy. JoEllen was afraid it shot something, but it doesn't. Just a solid wood gun that has a trigger. That is so solid I considered using it as our burglar weapon should we ever need one.

look how serious he is about it.

Christmas Jammies

2012-01-23T14:58:00.000-08:00

This is Christmas 1980 w/ all of my sisters but Jackie. My mom made us these jammies and whenever I think of Christmas jammies this is the picture that comes to mind. So this year-knowing Eliza could actually wear a nightgown-I asked mom to re-create the dream. And she rocked it!!

The flannel fabric has holly on it and everything! She also made the boys fleece jammies too and they also loved them. And on a side note: The photo of me above might as well be Eliza. The pic of her looks kind of funny b/c she's being cheesy, but I've never really thought we looked that much alike until I saw this pic of me. I'm also making a weird face (shocking) but it's kind of insane! I love it!

December Misc.

2012-01-23T14:56:00.000-08:00

A bunch of cute kids taking a break to watch a show. It's always so nice and quiet...

Phil takes the boys "Deer Hunting" at Mercer County Park. They go early in the mornings in search of herds. This time they had binoculars. Apparently this time they got a little too close and it freaked them out. Ha!

After getting into trouble-so long ago I forget what he did-Ty felt remorse and made our bed, cleaned the house, etc. It was great. He also left this note on our bed which made us laugh. (his goal I'm sure!) This ugly doll is one Phil made in sewing class as a kid and we all call it "little Phil." Eliza is terrified of it, and Ty calls it an alien-hence the message.

It says, "Hi mom and dad. Do you like me. From alein. Hee hee!"

A kids Nativity

2012-01-23T14:52:00.000-08:00

Our church asked the kids in our ward to dress as any nativity appropriate character for some pictures. These pictures were then made into a slideshow that was shown at our church Christmas Breakfast. It turned out really great. Here is Eliza w/ all of the other angels. She was miserable-but it worked out for her. B/c there was a darling pic of her crying-they called it a "Crying Angel Production" and had her pic. Kind of cool!

The boys chose to be wisemen.

Here they are bringing gifts to the "Baby Jesus."

The angels singing Hosana! And in Eliza's case-bawling her eyes out!

The Wisemen traveling from a distant land.

And of course Chase fell of course. Oh, well!

"Mom always said-don't play ball in the house!"

2012-01-17T20:17:00.000-08:00

I always think of Carol Brady telling her kids that on the Brady Bunch when I tell the boys to stop throwing the flipping football in the family room. And by boys-I mean Phil AND the boys. I tell them they're going to hit the lights, the t.v. or me. So tonight I was sitting on the couch minding my own business when Phil and the kids started throwing that dang football around. I was trying to ignore it even though they were being loud and obnoxious and falling all over me. When I was about to lose it Chase throws a pass to Phil, hits the light (breaking the light bulb) and it bounces over and hits me in the face. Done and done. (Unfortunately it missed Phil's precious t.v.) And as Phil said later, "only Chase could have done that."
Luckily it was bed time. Phil coming home at 7:30, I'm still feeling sick and then this. I was DONE-ZO!!!
Coming from a family of 5 girls did not prepare me for this madness.

That moment when...

2012-01-03T08:33:00.000-08:00

You're at the library looking on the computer for a book. You find it and dig through your purse for a pen and hold it in your hand for a few moments while you look at the screen for info. And you realize that you're holding a tampon in your hand that's come out of the packaging and you only realize that after a stranger next to you is looking at you in shock. Oh, and I forgot to mention the tampon was hot pink.
Yep-that just happened.

She makes me laugh

2012-01-03T08:31:00.000-08:00

This morning Eliza looked out the window and yelled, "Gooses!" and so I said, "Oh, you see some geese?" She looked at me w/ that teenager glare and a totally annoyed voice said, "no-gooses!"
She told me!

The pictures with Santa slowly improve

2011-12-21T12:33:00.000-08:00

The Santa at our church party was great. Despite the look on her face, Eliza thought getting her own

candy cane was pretty amazing! (she uses the word amazing all of the time. kinda kills me)

Eliza can't seem to keep her eyes off that candy cane.

Lexi and Chasey. That boy has a great instant smile. I never have to "make" him smile. It just comes naturally cute!

Phil looks happy-Eliza? not so sure. If you ask her if it was fun she'll say yes. She's hiding it deep down inside.

I'm lovin' those Rockettes!!!

2011-12-16T18:35:00.000-08:00

We decided the kids were old enough to see the Radio City Christmas Show in NYC, and I was so excited to take them! This was my 3rd time seeing it, and it never ever gets old! Right at the corner across from Radio City is I believe a hotel w/ maybe 8 of these nutcrackers in front. It was soooo cool. Especially since my kids are obsessed w/ nutcrackers at the moment.

There it is in teh background! The weather was perfect. We went in a few hours early to walk around the city and show them some of the Christmas sights. We ran out of time b/c we hadn't factored in how slow kids walk-but we still saw quite a bit!

The city is so fun to be in during the holidays. I think this is Chase bank. They were sponsors to the Rockettes show so they went all out at their buildings.

There were these cool huge ornaments, christmas lights and something else. So fun!

At Rockefeller Center we went to the LEGO store. The boys of course loved it. I'm realizing we didn't take a pic in front of the tree or the ice skating rink. The kids loved it.

Eliza was bored and instead sat at this window staring at the huge tree in Rockefeller Center and the skating rink. She was mesmerized.

The Star Wars section mesmerized the boys of course!

Then we went to the Nintendo store. They had this crazy interactive Mario. He was actually talking to my kids about personal things. He told Ty he liked his sweater, and when they were together he said that Chase must be the younger brother. We were so confused and in awe!

Ty couldn't believe it. Then later a worker told us the guy that actually does the voice of Mario was skyping w/ us from wherever he lives. So Mario WAS actually talking to us! He only does it 2 hours a day so we were lucky to be there when we were. He knows 8 languages and while we there he started speaking in Spanish to a little girl and blew her mind.

Of course the kids played some Wii.

Then we walked up to FAO Schwarz Toy Store. Home of the big piano from the movie "Big." In the LEGO section there Chase was loving Indiana Jones.

On the Big Piano! Pretty cool!

And here we are in Radio City!! I love that huge chandelier. We had literally no time to take pictures. We sat in our seats, the lights immediately went out and the show started. Cutting it close! The kids really enjoyed the show. The boys thought it was so cool. They are the perfect age for it. Eliza got bored about 3/4 of the way through, so we took a walk to the bathroom. So it was a success! I'm so glad we got to do this together as a family. And it really got us all in the Christmas spirit!

Liberty Science Center

2011-12-16T18:19:00.000-08:00

Chase was supposed to go to the Liberty Science Center with his buddy Zach, but wasn't able to

go last minute b/c of a trampoline w/ Uncle Doug injury. We thought his hip was out of joint, but luckily it was just a badly pulled muscle or something. He could barely walk which is pretty unusual for him! So anyway, they had a free ticket so Ty went instead. He had a blast. Thanks again Sherwood's! So I have no clue what any of this is. But it looks fun!

Ty said that this pic was taken b/c you can see the Statue of Liberty in the background. It's right across the river from NYC.

Another Visit with the Shafer's!

2011-12-16T18:15:00.000-08:00

As if we hadn't seen them enough-the Shafer's came up to visit us! Since they are moving from VA in

a few months (Doug is graduating Dental School) they wanted to go into NYC to see Wicked. They of course loved it, and I got to watch Addy while they were gone. So naturally I let her try chocolate milk for the first time. It's actually Ovaltine, so I didn't feel too badly. And let's just say she LOOOOVED it. She slugged it down so quick I was laughing so hard. I got some pretty good video of it too. We've seen them so much, it sucks that we don't have any definitive plans to get together. I miss having my family around!!

I went upstairs to grab something and whenI came down I couldn't find the girls. They were being abnormally quiet. And then I saw this. They stayed like this for a few minutes. It was adorable!

And then they came running at me. They had so much fun together.

Jackie was able to get together w/ Meyerson's before they left on a trip. Lots of chilly cute girls.

Hamilton had a Winter Wonderland Festival so we went and checked it out. It was pretty cool. The kids loved the train ride and live animals to feed.

I love little kids all bundled up. Reminds me of the the Christmas Story. "I can't put my arms down!"

On the train ride. happy faces all around!

Out of order-but just another cute one of them.

Chase + Soccer = pain and heartache

2011-12-16T18:09:00.000-08:00

Here's Chase getting his medal for playing soccer. You might me thinking, "how cute he loves soccer." Well, you'd be wrong. Mostly.

Most practices/games this was him in the field. Wandering. IF we could get him out there. He had 2 friends on the team-and even that wasn't incentive enough. I finally decided that he only had to do practices b/c he seemed to like it a little better. After battling w/ Tyler at the same age, I figured it just wasn't worth it. We were going to those fields 3 times a week for heavens sake!

"What am I doing here?

"I want a snack."

"Look! I made contact w/ the ball. Now can we go?"

And then the final game came. We made him go b/c they were doing a team picture. We couldn't get him OFF the freaking field. He LOVED it. He played well, was aggressive and having fun. he kept saying how much he loved this game and that he wanted to play it forever and ever. He kills me.

But I'm happy he eventually liked it. And I'm thankful for a patient coach! We'll see how next year goes.

Apple Pickin'

2011-12-16T18:03:00.000-08:00

Better late than never-here are some October apple picking pics. We went with Amanda and her kids

to Terhune Orchards.

Enjoying some fresh apple cider.

Momma's and the kidlets

Tractor rides. It's a pretty cute set up.

This picture is hilarious. He looks like a clown or something on this tiny bike.

That's better.

So THIS is who belongs on the tiny tractor Ty!

A bunch of rowdy, stinky, happy boys!

This slide was a hidden hazard! I saw child after child fly down and land flat on their backs! This was Eliza first and last ride down it. Didn't care for it so much.

Picking apples in the sun!

Me lugging a super heavy bag and my purse. Brilliant.

Both of those ridiculously heavy bags of apples are for me! The next day I made applesauce w/ my friend Sara. I ended up making alooooot of sauce! And frankly we picked the only apples they had, and it made thick nasty sauce. But I'm making my family eat it anyway!

The girls! When did my baby get so big?!?!?

Realized there were wagons a bit too late. It was nice to have!

Goodbye farm! We all had fun!

A tired, hot and sweaty girl!

A Simple Thanksgiving

2011-12-16T16:24:00.000-08:00

Dancing happy kids!

Okay, back at the start. Chase's class had to disguise a turkey. This is what he and Phil came up with. And Phil is pretty proud of it. He wants to frame it or something.

Cute kids. Here's Chase's Indian costume for his school Thanksgiving Feast.

And regrettably Ty had to be a pilgrim. He wasn't happy at all. Even when we told him they had musket ball guns. Indians w/ bows are just cooler I guess.

So to totally simplify this year we decided to go out to eat. I blame it on the fact that Jackie's pregnent, but really it just sounded nice. So here we are at Cracker Barrel waiting for our name to be called. The food was okay, certainly not homemade. But it was a fun experiene. And next year I'm baking. For sure!

The happy Shafer clan.

The odd Barno clan.

that's better-ish.

Classic Chase.

Cute Ty.

This was all she'd eat. Corn muffins. It was nap time and she was not having it.

Addy was starting to get tired too.

I'd say this is how we always look.

But this is more our normal.

She's awake!

We had intended on making dessert for after dinner (we felt like we should do SOMETHING), but then Cracker Barrel's meal came w/ pie, so we didn't even have to! Doug and Jackie did make a cake though.

My dad's sister Kris was in town visiting her son who happens to live just down the street from Jack. It was so fun to see them! I haven't seen them in maybe 10 years. Isn't she cute?

Jackie, me, my cousins Kaitlyn and Kurt

Aunt Kris and Uncle Craig

Doug and his moustache like to play w/ the kids. :) We had another great trip to VA. Thanks again for having us AGAIN!!

Breaking Dawn

2011-12-16T12:43:00.000-08:00

I have seen all of the Twilight movies w/ my friends and we always have a great time. Most of us are not die-hard fans, but instead giggle throughout the entire movie. And by giggle I mean laugh really loud. So this year I thought I'd step it up a bit and make favor bags and even dress up. It was a blast!

Here are the favors. Complete w/ wedding rings, vampire teeth and feathers.

yes, we wore those to the movie. We couldn't stop laughing. Please note I borrowed Jackie's Jacob shirt and Amanda is wearing a sparkly shirt-like vampires sparkle in the sun. Ha!

Our friend Candace flew all the way out from Utah to see the movie! J/k. She was here for Marisa's (left) b-day party. It was fun to have her back!

Amy thought she was too cool to dress up. :)

But she was wrong. Look at those sparkling teeth!

Again-I am sooo ugly when I laugh. We were crying we laughed so hard.

Candace-what nice teeth you have!

Mara snuck in last minute too. Nice rock!

Virginia is for Lovers

2011-12-16T12:36:00.000-08:00

Get ready for a long one. Remember-this blog is my scrapbook/journal. This might be boring!

The kids had a week off so I took them down to visit my sister in Virginia. It was a fun trip, but exhausting w/out daddy's help! We took them to Colonial Williamsburg, VA and they loved seeing the "olden days" town.

They're always drawn to guns. ALWAYS!

Stopping for a snack. Poor pregnant Jackie was feeling pregs and feverish at the same time!!

The kids were just being cute passing snacks around.

Silly little girls. These 2 LOVE each other!

Again, checking out anything that shoots.

Right where they belong-in the stocks! I can make these, right? :)

The moms. Sometimes this seems okay with me.

Aaaand the babies. This got alot of attention from bystanders. They are pretty stinkin' cute!

The boys were goofing around in the stocks and the next thing we knew a tour guide was using them as an example. Strangers were snapping pics of them all over the place. Kind of weird!

Then he put Chase in this.

Then both of them. I considered doing some Outlet Store shopping then coming back for them.

The fam in front of the Governor's Mansion I believe.

Afterward we stopped for some McDonald's cones.

Addy thought she was in heaven eating her very own cone. Such a big girl!

Oh, the cottage. I got it for the week and the kids loved it. They colored and colored and played. And then eventually destroyed it.

Peek-a-boo!!

I've never seen Chase be so careful when coloring.

Jackie got into the action.

Man were we busy. We went to the Richmond children's museum and it was a blast. I am so used to every place I go to in NJ being cramped, packed, chaotic, and this was so not that way! We were able to spend several hours there without feeling tired of lines and over-crowding.

I love this pic.

My sweet hatchlings.

The sweet girls calmly coloring.

The water table was a hit. They loved making dams.

The girls just followed each other around.

This contraption was awesome. It sucked up scarves and blew them out. Pretty fun!

Jackie taking a break w/ the munchkins.

Me and my girl.

My little puppeteers.

This was a hoot. It was a news station. There was a camera you controlled and it broadcast it in the room and in the hallway. Didn't realize that until I heard someone laughing, went out and saw a guy sitting there watching all of us act like morons. Woops!

Addy in a sports coat.

Oh, Ty. He wore that coat and danced and danced. AWKWARD!!

A little of this and that

2011-12-16T12:16:00.000-08:00

I've done a little co-op "preschool" with all 3 of my kids. I've done it w/ my friend Christanne's kids with each of our kids. Kind of fun! This was my day so I headed over to Sayen Gardens to feed the fish. It was fun.

This pic makes me chuckle. I promised the kids that they couldn't possibly fall in the water. My kids never have. And you can see Eliza is leaning-as I snapped the pic-she fell right in! Woops!

We are loving our fire pit. This night we snuggled up and watched a movie and roasted marshmallows.

My snuggly boys. Sometimes they do this, sometimes they wrestle to the death.

Chase fell asleep not too long afterward.

Skype-ing with the Shafer's. They're pretty.

HALLOWEEN STUFF

2011-12-16T12:06:00.000-08:00

After I posted all these pics I remembered my friend Amanda had sent me a bunch of pics.And I don't get blogger-I uploaded them here and it puts them at the top of the post, not at the end. Oh, well. So out of order. Here's some more!

At my cute next door neighbors house. She'd just had a hysterectomy so it was great she came out to talk w/ us.

The crew.

Eliza's poor cute pink ballet shoes at the end of the night. The snow was melting into a muddy disaster. Oh, well. it was cute while they lasted!

Firstly-I'd like to thank Halloween for scaring the crap out of Eliza. B/c of all the ghosts, goblins, witches, etc. seen all over the place she is afraid of the dark. Hates going to bed. Doesn't like to be alone in the basement anymore, etc. It's been reaaaaaly awesome. Anywho-back in October the kids were so excited to decorate. Once the costumes were out they were immediately on the kids!

The ghost in the right corner is my nemesis. It's sound activated and howls and shakes and generally terrifies the kids. But they also love it. Go figure.

Spooooky!

Kids drinks wrapped up as a mummy. It startled them at school. HA!

This year we were a bit slow in getting pumpkins. And decided to get them last minute in a snow storm. Brrr!

Consequently we ended up with the hardest, weirdest pumpkins ever. We couldn't even carve one of them!

Heading off to the boys' school Halloween Parade. Eliza was cold and didn't want to wear her ballerina costume, so she snuggled up as a lion. Don't those boys just disappear into the background? :)

I have terrible pics from trick-or-treating. Here's Eliza and Claire. They were so darling running down the sidewalk together to get candy!

All tuckered out afterward. The kids had fun answering the door and handing out candy.

spooky pumpkin!

This is our front porch. The kids helped me make the ghosts w/ sheets and tomato cages w/ lights underneath.

There is no title

2011-12-05T10:17:00.000-08:00

Let's just say the title of this blog is very appropriate for the email that I just got from Chase's primary teacher.

Funny thing happened yesterday during class. The lesson was about not using the lords name in vain and I taught them not to use it like a curse word. Chase, very matter of factly told the class that instead of saying son of a b*%$ when you mess up, you should say son of a nutcracker for Christmas and son of summer when it's sunny. I was totally laughing.

Don't get him in trouble. He was teaching us the better way.

Another weird story by Tyler

2011-11-17T13:25:00.000-08:00

This was an assignment he actually did at school. She must think we're so weird.

"Once there was a magical popcorn popper. It made the best popcorn ever! Everyone went to get it. So then everyone got fat."

Great concluding sentence Ty.

A Big Shout Out!!

2011-11-14T10:20:00.000-08:00

I took all of our homevideos on those small HI-8 tapes to Walgreens to have them made into DVD's and they did such a great job! They send them out to a company called YesVideo and we're all so happy to have them on easily accessible. The price wasn't terrible (it also kind of sucked too) but it's worth it. So thanks Walgreens. For filling prescriptions w/ a drive thru AND making sweet memories come alive!

On a side note: when Ty was born we put the video camera up by my head and filmed down. No nasty shots or anything. Well, I hadn't planned on showing that to the kids any time soon. BUT Saturday night Eliza was up all night w/ a fever and I hadn't slept, so I slept in until about 9:30 Sunday and the boys had been watching the home videos. I come walking down the stairs and Tyler announces, "I know how babies come out now." Woops. Crap. But also good I guess. He'd figured it all out based on the video. So that part of the birds and bees-done and done.

My mom just emailed this to us...

2011-10-27T19:35:00.000-07:00

She titled it "Phil's Motto?" And he's also willing to lose his child. See our trip to Alabama and playing Monopoly. Ha!

Fun and Gross FHE

2011-10-25T18:25:00.000-07:00

We did Family Home Evening with some friends this week. She brought the lesson (which went over waaay better Amanda then the lie monster! Tonight reading scriptures Chase remembered what you taught!!!!) We provided the owl cupcakes and she provided Slimeaid. Doesn't that word just gross you out?

But the kids loved the drink. That's all that matters.

It's beginning to look alot like Halloweeeeeeen!

2011-10-25T18:22:00.000-07:00

We've had the spirit of Halloween for weeks and we're excited it's only a few days away. Eliza's been wearing her spooky witch socks.

The kids have been getting fun surprises in their lunch. I'm about to pack their lunch now w/ mummy drinks. Should be a hoot!

And last Friday night was the Fall Festival at the boys' school. It was actually alot of fun. The best was the hayride which was terrifying. Seriously. Kids were hysterically crying. And I don't think the creepy freaks approaching the hayride got the memo that you don't touch the patrons. SCARY!!!

Jim Thorpe Fall Festival

2011-10-25T18:19:00.000-07:00

Tim and Marie have been talking about the Fall Festival in Jim Thorpe, PA for years and we finally went this year. The main highlight for us was the train ride. The trees were gorgeous and the kids of course loved it!

As Hunter said, "This is the boy side."

Cute cousins.

"And this is the girl side."

Chase in deep thought. I really think he was. He stood this way for a while. We were listening to a band and chilling.

Are you kidding me? Hunter kept a close eye on Eliza for us. She'll be a good sister one day! ;)

I know I said the train was the highlight, but for Chase this might have been. Let's just say it wasn't his best day. He literally cried and whined ALL day, but as we walked to our car to leave we walked by the river and saw this slide. He LOVED it. It was so much fun and was a fun unexpected surprise.

Little Tiny Friends

2011-10-25T18:12:00.000-07:00

We babysat a friend's baby and we all couldn't get over how tiny she is. It was cute to see all my kids play with her.

That same morning the boys had soccer and this is Chase waiting to be picked up by a friend. I see this same figure only taller 10 years from now. Looks so "guyish."

Party Time

2011-10-25T18:10:00.000-07:00

We made the decision that the kids will have a friends party every other year. So this year was a family party and Ty decided to go to a Go-Kart place down in Cherry Hill. It was great!

The guys got competitive. Of course.

Chase got competitive. Of course.

And afterwards we left holding hands and singing Kumbaya. :)

Oh, and when we got home THIS was in my front yard! This is the second one we've seen in 4 1/2 years and it explains who is eating all of my hostas and portulaca! I have no idea where it's coming from. Weird!

Baptism Day!

2011-10-25T18:06:00.000-07:00

Tyler's Baptism turned out great. In our church you wear all white and are completely submerged in water just like Jesus was baptized. Most of our family was involved in some way. Mom played the piano, Jenn was the chorister, Doug said the opening prayer, I spoke on Baptism and Jackie did about the Holy Ghost, Phil performed the baptism and confirmation, Dad and Travis were witnesses to the baptism, and Dad said the closing prayer. One of the highlights for me was Tyler singing! He sang the same song I sang when I was baptized 300 years ago. "My Baptism Day" was sung by the cutest boy w/ his front teeth missing so it was a little lispy. He was so confident and I was so proud of him-it was a tear jerker!

Phil and Ty. I can't believe it was almost 8 years ago exactly that Phil himself was baptized!

Our excited family. This was a big day!

Tyler was lucky to have so much of his family attend. Phil's mom came up.

Marie and Hunter came. Tim had work obligations he couldn't get out of. And Hunter was running with a pack of kids when we took this.

Phil's Uncle Bill and Aunt Barb came!

Ty looked so darling in his new "big boy" church clothes. Jess-he loves his CTR tie tack!

Eliza enjoying some snacks. The ones we brought! I forgot to bring some of the food. Last minute chaos. Oh, well!!!

My parents drove up from Alabama!

Doug and Jackie came up from Virginia. And of course the Meyerson's were there. It was great to have everyone there to support us. Thanks!!

Afterwards we all headed back to our house to eat the snacks we forgot and order some Subway. We all had some really great conversation and everyone enjoyed themselves. Eliza tried on my old Brownie Scout uniform and I wanted to smooch her to death!

Dad sharing the gospel with Bill. The evening was full of great memories!

Battleship NJ Part Deux

2011-10-25T17:55:00.000-07:00

My dad has wanted to go to the Battleship NJ since it came to rest here in Camden. So when they came for Ty's Baptism we took advantage of the time and went. It was really fun!

Miss Lex. Doesn't she look all touristy in that hat? All that's missing is a fanny pack!

My boys. Actually The Boys. That's how Eliza refers to them now. "where are the boys? hi boys. i miss the boys. i can hear the boys" etc. etc.

Dad with his grandkiddies. He really enjoyed touring the ship. It's right up his alley. It was nice to have him along b/c he knows so much about these class of ships so he helped fill in the gaps for me.

A quick break. They all decided it wasn't all that cozy to sleep on the ship!

Dad coming out of a gun turret.

Posing with some ammo.

Since we had more time we got to see some things we didn't see before. This was cool. If your ship was stranded at sea and another ship came to rescue you, this is how you got from one ship to another. Hanging in a basket attached to a pully-rope. Crazy!!!

Their faces are priceless. I told them to look scared and they were spot on!!

In the "brig" or jail. They look fearless here, but they were kind of freaked in there. That's a good sign for the future.

In the barber shop.

That's an ashtray they're playing with. We talked about how smoky it must have been on the ship in those tiny confined spaces. Yuck!!

Fun being 8

2011-10-25T17:45:00.000-07:00

On his birthday morn he received this helmet he's been begging for. And then he did a scavenger hunt to find his other gift. A sweet wooden rifle. That I oddly didn't get a pic of. But he loves it! It's from Harry's Army/Navy so it has to be legit, right?

Ty was lucky that my parents and Jackie and Addy came up the day of his birthday. So we were able to do the festivities w/ them. Here's mom doing tea with Eliza. So dainty mom.

We went to Cheeburger Cheeburger for a lovely meal. Addy liked it!

Dad and Ty

Mom and Chasey (he was paranoid the entire time that his picture was going to be taken again for eating his burger. we finally had to the waiter tell him that no-he would NOT take his pic)

Mom and Jack

Daddy and the Princess. She's getting a little full of herself lately. Just so you know.

Me and Ty. Aren't we something to look at?

Another tooth bites the dust

2011-10-25T17:39:00.000-07:00

Chasey lost his first tooth! After watching his hysterical brother who can blame him for being nervous. But he opened his mouth like a man and Phil pulled it out. And he was totally fine. What a brave boy!!!

Checking out his new smile. It's pretty cute. And the tooth fairy didn't even forget to come this time!

It's always back to the farm

2011-10-25T17:37:00.000-07:00

Have I mentioned how much we love it here? Oh, I have? And you're sick of it? Sorry.

Getting soaked and muddy. But somehow I'm cool with it.

Checking out the scene. It appears to me that this bridge suffered some damage after the hurricane and nobody has noticed. It just looked different and not in a good way.

Checking out good ol' Bessie

Making our way to a part of the farm I don't go to. We were on the hunt for crayfish.

And Tyler found one! It was quite exciting for all.

Chase holding it. He has no fear. Unless of course he's in a soccer game. But that's for another time...

We went on a hayride while we were there. Great pic don't you think? NOT.

Nothing like a horses behind to get you through the day.

LOVE.

This was hilarious. Chase-chased this chicken all over the place growling at it like a bear. It just ran around freaked out. As a responsible adult I should have stopped it, but it was just funny. So sue me.

Goosey Goose Time

2011-10-25T17:30:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago we had Lexi and Lucy over for a few days and while the older kids were at school these 2 were the best of pals. Aren't they the cutest?

They enjoyed some bathtime together.

But trampoline time was the best. I have video and they just giggled and giggled for almost an hour.

Eliza bouncing the Goose. Oh, which is what Eliza calls her. If you call her Lucy, she'll correct you with Goosey Goose.

Are you freaking kidding me?

It's Great to be 8!!

2011-09-26T19:40:00.000-07:00

Our little "Tooter-Poops" is 8 today. I cannot believe that we have a child old enough to be baptized!

Ty-you are such an amazing kid. You are so smart, funny, silly, caring, thoughtful and soooo good with your brother and sister. We are so thankful that you are ours! Love you buddy!

He won't be whistling Dixie for a while!

2011-09-12T19:16:00.000-07:00

After a traumatic evening, Tyler officially has no front teeth. He sounds so funny and I love it. We got video of us pulling out his tooth, but since I don't feel like posting it I'll just list some things that were said during it.

"Wait-don't do it! I'm not a big boy. I'm a baby! Goo goo ga ga. A little baby girl!!!"

"I'm not a man, I'm a woman! I'm a scared woman!"

"Save me, save me! Call 911" (our windows were open)

"Calm down, my dad did this to me every time and I'm not emotionally scarred from it!" (I was now sitting on Tyler and holding the camera. My shining parent moment.)

"Phil, just freaking do it already!"

"I can't do this to him!!You do it"

"I can't-it freaks me out!"

And then suddenly he was calm, opened his mouth and Phil ripped it out. He then said, "why didn't you do that earlier? It didn't even hurt!"

Being a parent is so ridiculous sometimes.

Service Project

2011-09-12T19:09:00.000-07:00

Our church organized a large group of almost 200 members to help with disaster relief after Hurricane Irene. Phil's mom came to watch our kids and we were off to North Jersey. We spent the day cleaning out basement after basement that was flooded during the storm. These homes had up to 6 feet of water in them and it was soooo humbling. We were literally taking shovel-loads of peoples posessions to the trash. These houses have such mold problems now and thank goodness FEMA has been in contact with them to replace their things. I am so thankful that we had the opportunity to help these people that really really, needed it.

And on a lighter note. We looked over at Phil snuggling his car calling his mom to check on the kids. Not sitting curbside, but in the street! It just cracked us all up b/c he was having a secret nervous breakdown all day w/ dirty people in the car, dirty shoes, etc. It looks like he's reassuring his baby that it's all going to be okay. :)

The Bus did me in

2011-09-12T19:01:00.000-07:00

I drive and pick up the kids from school for the first week. And then the party is over and they take the bus. And for whatever reason putting my little Chasey onto that bus just broke me. I was bawling and an emotional wreck. I took video of him getting on and off the bus, but no pics. But he again looked and felt so grown up getting on. He told me after school he loved how bouncy it was and he was proud he could do his seatbelt by himself. I'm so thankful that my big boy Tyler is so responsible. He knows to sit with him, get him to class and is teaching Chase the ways of bus-riding. it's only a matter of time before the weird bus tales begin again.

Off to school!

2011-09-12T18:57:00.000-07:00

The first day just crept up on us. Ty had strep throat and Chase was starting to feel junky, so we weren't really prepared-but by the looks of them they didn't mind! My Chasey started Kindergarten and he was very nervous. But I think having a big bro there really helped him feel comfortable. And I wasn't bawling my eyes out this time, so maybe that wasn't freaking him out!

Making the silly faces. I love the height difference. I don't ever notice it b/c they aren't standing still very long.

In front of their school. I think Chasey felt like such a big boy walking up to his classroom. So cute!

At his little table. I found a table w/ a little boy that lives a street away, so maybe they'll strike up a friendship. Don't mind the shine on my face. It was maybe 400* in there and I was crying.

We have video of this as well. I stood up and this is him telling the boys, "I'm really funny." And then he rubs his spiked hair and says, "look at this hair!" almost as if to say-only comedians have this do! So hilarious!!!

Some deep convo. He looks unsure of this kid next to me.

Picking him up from school! He was so happy with his day which was such a relief.

And two seconds after that pic he melted down. His head hurt, he was feverish, his throat hurt. But he toughed out the day and I'm so proud of him. This was how he spent the rest of the day!

Our final trip to the beach

2011-09-07T19:29:00.000-07:00

Firstly let me say that we only live 45 minutes from the beach and we never go. Lame. Anyway, this was our last summer trip to the beach. And the day started out looking like this. NASTY!!!

But luckily Ty got a little too close to Aunt Jenny and she took care of the problem. The tooth fairy was good to him later. Done and done.

Chase was pretty solitary this trip. He enjoyed being by himself and burying himself. That's normal, right?!

Lucy is making this face as a reaction to seeing Chase doing this. It was priceless.

Because of the hurricane or tropical storm or whatever you want to call it, the ocean was crazy. The tide came up really far and then receeded leaving this little river stretching a few hundred feet. It was perfect for the kids to splash around in, especially b/c the waves in the ocean were nuts!

All day the tide kept bringing in sticks and lots and lots of trash. Kind of gross, but the kids made the most of it. We referred to Chase as Moses.

This kept kids of all ages busy.

Even a tree washed up to shore!! They had to close the swimming area off for a while to get rid of it. Good entertainment for all!

Buds.

Ty has an obsession with Crush of all flavors. Yuck.

Keeping cool.

This is Alex Gruber and yesterday he left for his mission to the Dominican Republic. He has been such a good example for my boys and I'm excited to have a missionary for my kids to keep in touch with. Look at how much they love this guy!

Princeton Battlefield

2011-09-06T19:21:00.000-07:00

We've lived in the Princeton area for almost 8 years and I've never gone to the Princeton Battlefield. There isn't a ton to see or do, but it's still really neat. There is still a house and small carriage house that was in the battle in 1777. This is the carriage house. It's been converted to the bathrooms! Weird!

The house in the background. it's in really great shape!

My cute kids. This may be the only time Eliza was happy. Not her best day!

Checking out the lock on the smokehouse. It fascinated them!

They've converted the house into a museum. It's totally free and low-key. That's my speed! The kids loved all of the gun-involved displays.

A model of the battle. Ty loved it and requested this photo be taken.

Loving the coins found in the fields.

Phil's stepdad's house was built in the 1700's and the original part of the house has all the old doorknobs and handles and it was fun for me to see the kids recognizing that in this house. It even smelled like his house! Very weird!

Eliza pitching a fit.

Eating some grub. Picnic-style.

The kids then ran like wild animals.

Eliza preferred to sit w/ mom and be cute.

She started to run off and then came running back crying. A true hot mess.

I tried to do some reading in the history of the battle.

After a small walk we called it a day.

Eliza kept lagging behind and I got video of her doing what she was doing here. She was smacking a stick around singing "Baa Baa Black Sheep" for a good 10 mintues. So cute!

Hurricane, er, Tropical Storm Irene

2011-09-06T19:11:00.000-07:00

Phil taunting the Hurricane. This was the calm before the storm!

We all slept downstairs b/c we were afraid of...

These beasts in our backyard falling on our house! Luckily none did. But at about 3am I sat by a window (really safe I know) watching these suckers blowing sideways. Creepy!!

After the storm. We made out really well. A few big limbs and lots of small sticks to clean up and that was it! Our power never went out and we didn't get water in the basement. We were pretty blessed! So many others in our ward adn in our area didn't fair as well. The next day I went to a friends house and helped her suck water out of her basement and i felt so lucky that we were dealing w/ such stress!!

August Randoms

2011-09-06T19:05:00.000-07:00

Oh, these are a little disturbing. I came down in the morning to this chaos. The boys were playing football, which was good. But then they'd change clothes and be the cheerleaders. Not good. Here they are wearing their Jersey's as long hair. pretty sure Phil doesn't condone this.

What a dork!

I just noticed Eliza in the bottom corner "taking" a picture w/ her cellphone. hilarious!

Ty thinks he looks JUST like Mrs. Peacock from the movie "Clue." I tend to agree! He must have a weird thing for her b/c he's always Mrs. Peacock when we play the game.

A trip down South!

2011-09-06T19:02:00.000-07:00

We really enjoy the drive to Alabama. We don't take I-95, rather we take a less-traveled route and it's just nice. We break it up into 2 days and stay in a hotel which the kids love. This trip was unique in that we've never been to their house w/out another sister there. It was really fun. The kids had all of the attention and loved every minute of it. We played alot of board games. Here's mom and Ty playing Battleship.

We realized Chase's snaggle-tooth situation. Um, Ben and Doug. Do those 2 bottom front teeth appear to be coming in too far back and sideways? Or is it just me?!?! Do we need to consult our dentist? I see many years of braces in our future...

The boys spent lots of time in the hallway shooting their airplanes.

Mom and Dad gave Eliza this "princess" dress and cute laptop. She loves them! Her hair however is frightening.

The first and last game of Monopoly. Let's just say Ty beat Phil and he didn't take the loss well. It made for a good laugh for mom and I!

Eliza kept insisting on eating on the floor. I figure maybe b/c my mom's floors are so clean it's an option. It's just not at our house.

The infamous Battleship. My parents gave this to the boys and it's a little bit sacred to them. DON'T TOUCH!

The classic bubble-bath pic. They love that tub!

Santa

Eliza throwing a tantrum. It was pretty funny.

Eliza really enjoyed sitting at the piano with mom. I hope this is encouraging her!

At the splash park. She didn't really like the splash part of it. Oh, well. Food always works!

Such a cute kid.

Of course these 2 loved it! And made a bunch of friends too.

I just love that they love to hang out w/ each other! Thanks mom and dad for having us!

A visit from Aunt Jackie WITHOUT DOUG!!!

2011-09-06T18:53:00.000-07:00

So I put the title this way b/c both of my kids hugged Jackie when she got here and promptly asked, "where's Doug?" As if she's not enough! But we had a good time, so good I guess that I took no pics. Some little thumb suckers!

We went to the beach and had perfect weather. Chase dug this hold and was pretty proud of himself.

Eliza would have stayed in the ocean all day.

The 3 cute little girls awaiting dinner. They sat here slamming their plates on the table. Cute at first. Annoying eventually. About an hour after this pic we left for our drive to Alabama!

Chase finds out his teacher...

2011-09-06T18:50:00.000-07:00

The letter came in the mail telling us who Chase's Kindergarten teacher was. I'm pretty sure we were just as excited as we will be getting his college letter or mission call. He played dis-interested, but it was in there I'm sure. B/c of course he got the "meanest" teacher (according to Ty) and he was pretty upset. I'm sure she's great. I hope.

Here's me being super ugly and trying to be fake excited for him. And look at his look of shock. It's like he's thinking "my life is officially over." And by the way, if this is my fake excited face I'm fooling NOBODY!!!

Babysitting the girls

2011-09-06T18:48:00.000-07:00

I had Lexi and Lucy for a full day and we really had a good time. When Lex comes we usually play "movie theater." They watch a movie and eat while I'm their slave making them food and taking their pretend money. But it works. Both girls were napping. And in fact I realize I have none of Lucy. woops!

Playing dress-up. Lexi's in one of the dresses I got from my Grandma Shirley. So pretty!

We had a piano concert for Lex. Our piano has a pretty neat feature. You insert a floppy disk (so 90's I know!) and select your song and then each key lights up and you play the song. She worked for at least an hour on Beauty and the Beast b/c she wanted it to be perfect. Then when Trav came to pick her up the concert began. She did great! (p.s. I can see your undies!!)

A visit from old friends

2011-09-06T18:43:00.000-07:00

We had our semi-annual visit from highschool/college friends. Eliza had a major crush on Mike. She sat and played with him like this for about 30 minutes.

Dan brought his girlfriend who was beautiful and really nice. She's a keeper Dan! Here he is Super-Mario-ing it up w/ the boys. Bunny-rabbit style of course!

Butterfly Conservatory

2011-09-06T18:41:00.000-07:00

Some friends and I went to a Butterfly Conservatory and Nature Center in the Stonybrook Watershed. It was really low-key and fun. Chase was at Safety Town so it was just me and these 2 rugrats.

Making silly faces.

It took about 10 pictures to get this one. We kept cutting off Eliza's face and for whatever reason it was making us laugh so hard we were crying!

In the nature center sitting like a lady. Such class.

Clark releasing the butterfly he caught. Looks pretty cool!

Ty thought he was so brave.

She almost caught one!

The ever-classic Barno jumping shot.

This picture is so ugly. We were really having fun! I promise!

Swimming Pool Pains

2011-09-06T18:32:00.000-07:00

When we got home from our trip to Colorado our pool looked like this. And I never got it clear again. Soooo frustrating and annoying. But you know what? We swam in it anyway. It's no different than a lake (which is what I told myself and the kids).

Dollhouses and Doughnuts

2011-09-06T18:31:00.000-07:00

When I was a kid I begged and begged for a dollhouse. So for Christmas one year Santa brought me a kit to build my own. And I did and it took about a year to construct it. And then I saved every penny to decorate and furnish it. And was forced to use old wallpaper from our Alabama house instead of the store-bought like I wanted. Well, then late teenager-hood came and I lost interest. It ended up in storage in the basement and it sat there for years until my parents brought it to me a few years ago.

Fast-forward to the present and the boys have been begging me to take it down to look at it. I never really saw the purpose, until it occured to me that I do indeed have a little girl now! So we took it down, dusted it, took out all of the furniture (only a few broken pieces) and the kids had a blast. You have no idea how much it melted my heart to see Eliza playing with it. Phil came in and watched me oggling Eliza and said, "this must be the feeling I feel when I play sports with the boys." And I think he's right!

So now that I can afford to I am finishing this little house. I spent hours finishing the wall-papering and while visiting my parents in Alabama got a good deal on wood flooring. I feel pretty dorky, but I feel like I'm living out my dreams as a child! I will say this house taught me patience and money budgeting! And yes-my boys like to play w/ the house-it's their soldiers house. I just told them, that like our house, no rough-housing!! :)

Our family has a Boston Cream Doughnut obsession. We just do. It's a problem.

They makes us happy!

All of us!

Doesn't it look like she has a perfect moustache and goatee?

So true...

2011-08-13T05:55:00.000-07:00

I was on Pinterest this morning (which you don't know about you HAVE to check it out) and I saw this and it made my morning. I am constantly having moments of confusion when it comes to time. Just the other day my boys begged me to take my dollhouse down from the garage. I haven't looked at it for years and years. I was telling them how hard I worked on it and that I hadn't worked on it for about 10 years. That sounded good. Then I really did the math and it was more like 20 years ago and I almost died. The 90's just don't seem that long ago!!!!

Urban Dictionary

2011-08-12T14:45:00.001-07:00

When you get a chance go to the urban dictionary online and look up Barno. It's disturbing to say the least.

Six Flags

2011-08-10T18:38:00.000-07:00

At the end of the school year last year Ty's school did a reading program. If you read 6 hours you got a free ticket to Six Flags. I think I posted about it before. Well, he did it w/in about 2 weeks and anxiously awaited the ticket. he got it around the last day of school. I told him that we still had to pay for the ticket for one of us to take him so I told him he needed to read 10 hours to earn that. Which he did in about 1 1/2 months. We decided Phil should take him b/c my last adventure at a theme park made me pretty queasy. So today Phil took a half day and off they went! These are pics they've sent me through out the day. They got there around 2:00 and it's 9:45 and they're still going strong! Phil said this is a Dad's dream to go on real rides w/ his son. I love it! and I'm glad they're having fun together!

The Battleship New Jersey

2011-08-10T13:48:00.000-07:00

The boys are interested in all things Army. So when I suggested we go see a real battleship they freaked out. So I had a friend watch Eliza so I could go on a date w/ just my boys. Thanks Kaysha! Here we are at the Camden Waterfront waiting for a shuttle to take us over to the Battleship New Jersey.

Here she is! And it's HUGE!!! It was part of the Ohio class of ships and served in WWII, the Korean war, Vietnam war and the Persian Gulf war. She now is decomissioned and has been here for 10 years as a museum. It's so incredible and all that was missing was having my dad tour it with us.

There are 3 different tours and we chose the "fire power" tour. All of the docents are WWII Vets (which is seriously the cutest thing ever) and he showed us all the gun turrets and all things guns. I have honestly never seen my boys so attentive and quiet. I was surprised at how much they listened and enjoyed this. I have to take them again when my Dad is in town. This is the front of the boat w/ 3 of the 6 gun turrets. They're huge!

It still has the original teak deck and it's in pretty bad shape. It would cost about 5 million dollars to replace it so until they can raise that cash it remains in disarray. Other than that I thought the ship was in really good shape.

Me and my boys. You can see on the deck over the years guns have been removed leaving obvious marks on the deck.

We also got to see living quarters. These beds are actually 3 high. I'd feel smothered!

This freaked me out a bit. I forget all the names for everything, but we climbed under and up into one of the gun turrets to see how the huge ammo is loaded and shot. Tight stuffy quarters and these men were in the South Pacific w/ no A/C!

Inside the gun turret looking through the, um. What's that called? My dad must read this and tell me. You can see outside of the ship at incoming planes and such. I hate when I can't think of words...not telescope, right?

This is the area where the captain, generals and other high-ranking officers ate. This is the main table where the captain ate. No one sits or eats until the rank above them is doing it. There's also a really cool model of the ship.

There's cute Frank our docent in the background. All of them are wearing Navy hats and shirts and then the old-school sailor jeans. Loved it! Frank served in the Canadian Navy and then moved to the states where he worked for our Government until he retired. He's been a docent here since it opened and helped paint and clean and fix up the ship to get it ready to become a museum. He's pretty awesome! And this is Ty sitting in the captains chair. it has a pretty good view!

Mr. Chase. Or shall I say Captain Barno?

The Captain's View. That's the Ben Franklin Bridge to take you into Philly there in the distance.

I can't remeber what this is but there was alot of huge bullets in there and Chase was super interested. At the completion of the tour you could continue on your own and check out the post office, chapel, laundry, etc. We didn't have time so we went to the mess hall where the men ate and had a snack. They serve food there the whole time and it was really fun. It was completely renovated for the Persian Gulf war so it's not super vintage, but still very cool.

And when we stepped out this is what we saw. That's the BF bridge again and everyone was a little nervous. The docent had just been talking about 9/11 b/c this ship was supposed to carry all the living WWII vets that served on this ship from Washington to the Philadelphia Port in the end of September 2001. After 9/11 they weren't allowed to so it was pulled by tugboat w/out the Vets. So after discussing that we walk out to this. Fortunately it ended up being a chemical explosion in a building and I don't think anyone was hurt. Drama drama!! So anyway-we had a great experience and the boys loved it.

Colorado! the second

2011-08-10T13:18:00.000-07:00

4 of the five "little girls" had a lovely romp in the bath. Eliza the beast terrorized almost all of them by dumping water on their heads. Other than that I think they all had fun!

Addy's turn!

Eliza checking out the golf course behind their house I'm sure!

Another first for my girl. Grandma Joyce french braided Eliza's hair and it was just darling! She sat really well for her-I have to get better at doing it!

She's saying the word "cheese" and it's not all that cute.

Thanks mom!

She spent the next 5 mins. singing all the songs she knows to my mom. Show off. :)

Eliza got sick one night and I spent much of the night up w/ her. So I rolled out of bed at about 10:30 one morning to this. Huge tarp in the front yard and lots of happy kids!

Trav w/ Lexi and Chase

Noah's expression is priceless.

Ty took Reagan down. He couldn't get Eliza to do it so he adopted Reagan as his own.

Jeffinator

Benny Boy was missing his bikes so he took the kids bike out for a spin. Pretty great.

Ty 4-wheelin' it.

This pic is a hoot. My mom has a mild obsession w/ diet coke, light ice. The boys had a man-date to have sushi for lunch. And they came back w/ this drink. Firstly-I've never seen a drink, or jug, this big! She was thrilled and we all had a good laugh! We girls all think they're a bunch of bum-kissers!! :)

The Denver area has wonderful free splash parks all over the place. This one is right in Parker and you pay for it b/c it's bigger than most and has huge slides. In fact-Danny went down and hit his head and was knocked out! He doesn't remember what happened and he thinks he came to b/c he hit the water. Luckily Kennedy was there when he exited the slide. His side was killing him and he went to the doctor and broke 3 ribs! Pretty freaky!!

Mom w/ Eliza bird. The little girls had fun w/ this watering can pouring the water on everyone's legs and feet.

Eliza and "Goosey Goose."

The water slides. The blue one killed Danny. The kids loved it though! I quite enjoyed the red one!

Jeff w/ the girlies. Not to sound old-but I remember Jeffy being that small! So not pictured is our adults-only dinner trip to Denver where we at a Brazilian Restaraunt called Fogo de Chao. It was amazing! I've never had that much meat in my life! We then walked around the city which is so clean and safe. We perused a neat old bookstore and got some chocolate. Thanks Kennedy and your cute twin friends that babysat! I also took no tubing or knee-boarding pics-but we did that until Phil, Doug, Jenn and Travis broke it!! Thanks Jess and Dan for having all of us!

Colorado! the first

2011-08-10T12:57:00.000-07:00

Documenting our vacations stresses me out b/c I only have the pics I took. All of my sisters also took a million pics and I feel like I am missing vital parts of the trip-b/c I am! I forgt my camera a few days and so I have to wait to get pics from them. This is so my Grandma Shirley's issues coming out in me.

So anyway-we had a Dunlop Family Reunion at my sister Jessy's house in colorado. We were excited to see everyone and to see their newly renovated, new house in Parker. Here the kids are waiting for the plane. I have to note that when we left Newark it was 103* outside and I couldn't have been happier to leave!!

Waiting outside the Denver airport for Jess to pick us up. It was 4pm, and a lovely 80* out. Awesome!

Chase feeling a little frustrated w/ all the sitting and waiting and sitting some more.

Once we got to their house and all settled (the Wolfe's arrived about the same time as us!) we went to Luke's baseball game. Danny is the coach and Phil got to help. he loves that stuff. The kids preferred to play on the playground and had a blast!

Crazy Noah and Jeff doing the helicopter!

Hanging out and gabbing. That's what we do!

Again w/ Jeff being crazy. This, by the way, is Chase's future. Chase is Jeff when he was a kid!!!

On our walk to the ballfield something slithered over Stacey's foot. A freaking snake! And she picked it up to boot! I told her she's definitely a country gal now!

my kids kept their distance but Molly just shot up and touched it! Another country gal!

How can something so small look so fierce?!?!?

We spent 2 days at a local reservoir boating. It was such a good time. Here I am with my niece Kennedy who has obviously surpassed me in height. Jerk.

Some pretty cool boys. Jeff and Noah. Hey guys-YER MOM!!! (this is all they talked about the whole trip!)

Sleeping Addy-pot-pie.

Mom with some of the gang.

Dad with more of that same gang. The others must be on the boat.

Ry-Ry

We are pretty people.

2 little studs. Luke and Tyler.

These kids are just getting too old!!

Chase's partner in crime-Jack Jack. And Hannah bear in the background.

The girls. Lexi, Hannah and Rylee

Always the goof!

The Dunlop's!

This pic is funny to me. don't know why.

This one is better. Looks like Ken has no teeth!

The Barno's

Mortensen's

Kennedy And Rylee. Sisterly love. They never fight and always get along. Right?

Little twinners-Eliza and Reagan. It was impossible to get a pic of them both smiling at the same time!

Wolfe kids all tuckered out after the day in the sun! I also have to note that I was sitting in my truck with my sleeping baby w/ the windows down, it was 96* out and I was comfortable! That's not possible in NJ w/ that humidity!

Woops-out of order. More cousin shots!

July Randoms

2011-08-10T12:42:00.000-07:00

Coming from a house full of girls there just wasn't alot of wrestling. I remember my dad trying to-but it became useless for him b/c we always ended up crying. So all of the daily wrestling here just bugs me. It's violent, loud and someone is always getting hurt or breaking something. And now the boys are dragging my girl into it!

But I will say she doesn't take any crap and maybe she won't be a wuss like her momma!!

Some naked jumping. I am constantly wondering what my neighbors all think of us. Probably that we're white trash!!

Nothing better than Saturday swimming. It makes for a good family fun. I love combining it w/ either bbq-ing or turkey/cheese sandwiches w/ fruit and chips. Sad-but true!

Again-just another day of dressing up for Chase. With each new season comes new material for him.

I found these cute iron-ons at Target. They're fun b/c it starts w/ a base monster and then you choose how to decorate him. So Ty wanted more of a "kid pirate" and Chase a "real pirate." They had fun!

This is them acting like pirates. ARRRRR!!!

We put up the shark tent, and as usual Chase disappeared a few hours later and we found him asleep in it!

And while he slept these 2 did this for an hour. A magical mom day if you ask me!

Beachin' it w/ friends

2011-08-10T12:33:00.000-07:00

My friend Liz and her son Josh came up from VA to visit all of Josh's friends. She and our friend Christanne had a beach day planned-and last minute I tagged along. The kids all played together really great and Ty, Oakley and Joshua were back together like no time was lost.

I love babies at the beach!

Lots of busy digging kids.

Eliza playing w/ her cute friend Hathaway

Classic Sand Angel

Some scrappy boys. Thanks for the fun visit!

We're a classy bunch

2011-08-10T12:05:00.000-07:00

On Tyler's last day of school at about 10:30 I got a call from the school nurse. She was informing that Ty had ripped off the sole of his shoe and his toes were sticking out. What's a girl to do? I had literally told him the night before that we'd take him Friday (it was a Thurs) on his first day of summer to get new shoes. Plus it was only a 1/2 day so I told her he could tough it out. You could tell she was a little disgusted w/ me and I felt kind of dumb. But to be honest he doesn't have back-up shoes. This kid is growing so fast I can't keep him in shoes or socks very long. So here he is after school. How embarassing!!!

June Randoms

2011-08-10T11:56:00.000-07:00

Tyler is really getting interested in playing the piano and his lessons have helped. But the poor kid was playing on an electric keyboard on the floor. His piano posture was awful! So we talked Phil into letting us buy a Yamaha Clavinova which is an electric piano. The keys are weighted and it feels and sounds like a piano-but for much less! I looked and looked for weeks and found a steal on Craigslist! This is the day we got it home and the kids loved it. I'll have to get a pic of it in it's new resting place.

Being boys.

And what good is a tower if you can't knock it down!

I looked out the window and found this. That's Ty's baseball helmet on her head backwards. And then there's Ty's ensemble. Just made me chuckle.

This kid. He got some weird end-of-school thing that had these dots you put onto a monster and he had no idea he had one on his face. It still cracks me up! How could he not see this?!?!?

They're riding bikes!

2011-08-10T11:51:00.000-07:00

At the beginning of summer Phil decided he was going to take Tyler out everyday after work until he could ride his bike w/out training wheels. We were feeling bad that really the only reason he couldn't b/c of us! If we don't take him he won't learn! So after 1 day-we had an official bike rider! He did a great job. He started out a little nervous-but now he's amazing!

Eliza chillin' as usual.

A few days later Chase said he wanted to give it a shot. Sunday after church after maybe 5 minutes he was doing it too! I didn't even get the chance to take pics it happened so fast. So our new "thing" is to head over to the boys' school and ride on the blacktop. I have some great video of them cruising around. It's made our bike riding so much easier this summer. Those training wheels are a major pain sometimes!

Three dangerous boys riding. Seriously. It's scary.

Woa! (said in the voice of Joey from Blossom)

Eliza also has a blast running around doing her own thing.

Anniversary Trip Re-do to NYC

2011-07-13T18:30:00.000-07:00

Our first Anniversary trip was sort of a flop. We both just admitted we'd secretly kind of thought it sucked. So we decided to head on into the city and see a show. So thanks to Meyerson's for taking our kids so we could be off and having fun!

We forgot our camera so all I have is a few lame cell-phone pics. Here we are walking to the train station. Off we go!

This is the view from our room. We stayed in the Hilton right on Broadway. Our theater was only 3 doors down! It was fun to watch all of the insanity down below from up so high.

We did do some just sitting and relaxing. Isn't that also just what parents want sometimes?

Phil's friend Dan recommended a yummy Italian Restaurant, Nizza, just a few blocks from our hotel. We had outside seats and enjoyed some delicious food!

In our room the next day.

We had fun the next day walking all over the city and enjoyed a quiet break in Bryant Park. We decided if we lived in the city we'd go there for some R&R. Our last stop was to see the Broadway Production of "Mary Poppins." Phil agreed to see it mostly for me-but he ended up loving it too. It was put on by Disney and so w/ money comes some great special effects. We want to bring the boys back in to see it. Awesome!

The kids dig the Bowling!

2011-07-13T18:11:00.000-07:00

We got together w/ some friends and family and hit up the pizza shop and then the bowling alley. It was the first time Chase had ever bowled and Ty's 1st experience being old enough to do it alone. They loved it!

Me coaching Ty. He did great!

Look at Chase's form! Ha!

Surveying...

Zach and Chase checking out some video games that are a little violent for their age.

Hooray for Ty. He was 2nd place overall for the kids.

Shannon brilliantly brought the pack-n-play. And then read to my child. What a saint.

Little guys checking out the scores.

These 2 kill me. They look like 2 old men having a deep bowling conversation.

Tyler's last day of 1st Grade!

2011-07-13T18:07:00.000-07:00

This was our 2nd annual "last day of school" party. which is actually pretty lame and easy. And again-I can't believe Ty will be in 2nd grade. I may need therapy very very soon!

Eliza and I spent the afternoon painting a banner for them.

She was totally into it and made a huge mess!

This year we had Lexi again and i decided to invite Ty's friend Oakley b/c he has siblings both Chase's and Eliza's age. And we had Zach over-so it was a good crowd. Please note the water is a green hue. The problem has been fixed!

After some swimming the boys played some baseball.

Some of the boys!

Hooray-Summer is here!

Parting shot of the decorations. It was really rather fancy. Or not.

Chase Graduates from Preschool

2011-07-13T18:03:00.000-07:00

I'll start w/ this pic Grandma JoEllen took of little miss sunshine herself.

Chase's Preschool this year rocked. Waaaay better than the one Tyler did and the one Chase did last year. I can't believe I have another child totally done w/ Preschool. In fact I may start crying right now. He's super nervous about kindergarten. He was a wreck the day of the orientation. But I hope he likes it and has as much fun as he did here!

They had some cute things done for the graduation.

Chase's is all the way down in the right-hand corner.

There's the man of the hour! He was so fun to watch. He never participates or sings at any of the functions. he didn't last year either. He almost looks embarassed. Well, for the graduation he was belting it out. I was so proud!

Singing-but not as enthusiastically as the little girl Ava to the right of him. She was hysterical!!

Here he is w/ his teachers Miss Stephanie and Miss Dawn "accepting his diploma."

His buddy Zach and Miss Dawn. She doesn't take any crap but she's really nice too!

Eating some grub at the "after party."

Afterwards Grandma took him to Cheeburger Cheeburger. Where he snarfed down this milkshake in seconds!

This is hard work.

Um, woops. Back at the after party. Our little family.

And back at the restaurant.

Chase took the challenge. And ate a whole 1/2 lb burger!!!

And if you do that you get a pic w/ the large cheeseburger and it hangs on the wall. As you can see by his face he was mortified to have all of this attention!!! It was great!

Hmmm. Back at graduation. See-he's participating!!!

At the after party the kids all started getting wild. They were chasing each other and espcecially Zach and Chase. Which was our que to get the heck outta there!!!

2 happy boys ready for kindergarten!

With Miss Stephanie. This is the gift we gave her that Amanda made. She loved it!

June Stuff

2011-07-12T20:42:00.000-07:00

I chaperoned Ty's class on a field trip to the Howell Living Farm. It was awesome! I am so glad he still wants me to come to this stuff w/ him. He still wants to hold my hand and I'll take that as long as I can!! I forgot my camera however and snapped a few bad cell-phone shots. Here he is w/ the girl he has a crush on. Her name is Katie adn they are grinding corn together. How sweet...

They tried another method-w/ the mortar and pestle.

Another Chase falling asleep randomly. He just crashes.

Chase and Zach. Always dressing up!

Phil and his buddies went to the NBA draft this year in Newar, NJ. They had to support their man Fredette.

There he is!

They made these shirts/posters and didn't make it on espn! As if! Phil is the letter E holding the King sign!

Some Mother's Day Fun

2011-07-12T20:38:00.000-07:00

Chase's preschool had a Mother's Day party. Here he is w/ his buddy Zach.

So we came and munched on some foodies.

We hugged each other and he told me how much he loved me!

We watched Little Miss Thang pitch a fit. Look at my expression. I'm like, "get over yourself."

Chase made some pretend phone calls.

And he gave me this lovely hand-made gift. They worked on it for a long time and it was so cute. He was really proud of it!

I love my little munchkins! Thanks Amanda for taking all of these pics so there is proof that I do actually exist!

It's gettin' hot outside!!

2011-07-12T20:35:00.000-07:00

Hamilton has a pretty fun Memorial Day Parade. This is our 3rd year of going and it's great. it's near our house and easy access. And the kids scored some candy.

Most of the group. We went w/ Meyerson's and our friends the Gruber's and Carpenter's. Our other friends the Simmons showed up and sat by us too. It was fun! But oh so hot!

Eliza w/ Ali. Look at the red cheeks! I also now have about 5 million frisbees!

Later that week we got the pool up. The 2 little ones had so much fun playing in it that I didn't make them get out when they got their clothes drenched!

Since our neighbors huge tree dropped a limb on our bush and killed it we've got this lovely hole in the ground. It's been therapeutic for Chase so I've just left it. This is where you'll find the kids most of the time now. And of course Chase is always in some new ensemble!

I was sitting at the computer and Eliza started making this face at me. It was a hoot!!

A promised getaway in a hotel

2011-07-12T20:30:00.000-07:00

I've gone through a serious cleansing and purifying stage of my home. i can't stand any clutter or extra broken toys, or clothes we don't need. So to encourage the kids to part w/ toys they didn't want I bribed them. I told them if they sold them at our garage sale then we'd use the proceeds to stay in a hotel. They were eager and our garage sale was a success!

So we took them a mere hour away Memorial Day weekend and stayed in a Marriot Residence Inn and we had a blast! (We went west-AWAY from the shore!) Lexi came too-she's our rent-a-daughter.

We swam, jumped, flipped, played ball...

Snuggled up and watched a movie.

See-so snuggly!!

Our room was great. Lexi had the pull-out couch to herself. Eliza was in the same room in a pack-n-play. We had our own room w/ king-bed (oh, how I want one!) and the boys shared another room. It was great!

Chase chillin' out.

The next morning we went to Round Valley State Park and it was great! They have a sandy beach at the Reservoir and we didn't swim b/c there were some nasty people in there-but the kids loved the sand.

Digging and generally working hard.

We sat in the shade and chilled.

She is drinking gatorade and not urine. Felt the need to clarify.

This was serious work. They loved it.

Then we drove to the other side of the reservoir to picnic and fish. We caught nothing, but had fun anyway!

She's obsessed w/ grabbing the camera!

I just love this picture of them swinging. Good, clean fun being had here!

Something about Eliza's legs in this pic freaks me out. Had to share.

She felt so important carrying this tackle box everywhere!

I love the contrast of all the colors. I love being outdoors!

The girls! And I swear I did Lexi's hair-something mysterious happened between that and this point. Wow!

She's still having a good time! As we all did!

Misc. from May

2011-07-12T20:19:00.000-07:00

Phil took the boys to a Trenton Thunder game. He had "fun."

Chase has decided he loves cherry tomatoes! Someone besides me likes them-hooray!

Here he goes!

He was concerned at first-then decided it was a hit!

Ninja-boy. he's wearing my dad's ski mask and Lexi's karate uniform. ha!

Dad reading w/ the kids. Little Black Sambo to be exact!

Chase's friend Tessa was coming over and he was sooooo excited. He and Eliza sat here at the door for almost a full hour before they got here!

Eliza is so different than the boys. She will sit quietly and do most anything. This is the Tag Reader which she'll do for 30 minute stretches. Loooove that!

My yard this Spring. The tire swing is a new addition!

I love when it all turns green again. Good-bye winter!

Easter-A holiday celebrated months ago

2011-07-12T20:14:00.000-07:00

Miss Lexi w/ her carrot patch creation

Little Chase who later had a fever which is why he looks a bit off.

My beatiful patch.

Jackie is SUPER excited about hers!

She had fun munching as she worked.

The whole crew dyeing eggs too late at night!!

Poor Chase's neck was hurting. He's so pampered!

Sacked out on the couch!

I can't remember if Lex was really asleep-but a cute pic anyway!

Easter Egg Hunting

It's now totally cut-throat w/ the 3 older kids!

Gone are the days of lazily helping like I am here w/ my girl!

Lexi means business.

Miss Addy enjoyed a front row seat during the action.

Easter Morn. We did all the festivities the day before b/c Doug and Jack had to head home after church.

Cute little bunnies!

She looks snobby and it makes me laugh.

Who is this beautiful gem blowing bubbles. Heaven help me.

Oh, here we are back at the hunt. Blogger doesn't make moving pics easy so I just won't!

Doug is our special uncle. :)

Later Chase took the gals for a ride.

He's pretty proud, not so sure Addy liked it. Lucy is dying to get in!

Little bathing beauties.

3 clean, pink, binky-loving, thumb-sucking, lovey/taggy-loving babies. So cute!!

Eating our Easter Feast. YUM!

Um-Happy Easter a few months ago!

A few things the kids have said that made me laugh

2011-06-29T11:37:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday Chase learned to ride his bike w/ no training wheels! Exciting and totally terrifying if you know this child. So for FHE on Monday night we went to the Elementary school to let the kids ride their bikes. Chase was out of control. Flying around, taking sharp turns, etc. At one point he took too sharp of a turn and totally crashed into the dumpster he meant to be getting around. I ran up to him and he said in a low, serious, pained voice, "son of a nutcracker." He's never said it before and I just burst into laughing. And then in between trying to breathe asked if he wanted to take a break and he dramatically but seriously said, "I just gotta get back and ride." he kills me.

As of yesterday Eliza has started referring to Chase as "Chasey Barno" but w/ her accent it's "Chasey Bawno." Pretty adorable.

Tyler continues to be smarter than me and correct me at every turn. Will that stop soon ya think?

It was April-and this was proof warm weather was coming!

2011-06-27T19:59:00.000-07:00

I had my plants growing on the kitchen table and one morning I came down to water them and found a whole Fire Company taking a nap. Silly, silly Chase.

Chase had so much fun helping Phil mow the lawn. I can't wait until he's doing it himself!!!

I love this crabapple tree against my white fence. With all the green returning it was my happy place!!

Chase and Zach had a fun afternoon playing on this water/air hockey table. It soon became a slip n slide.

Chase is a wild, wild man.