Blue Ridge Baby

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T12:36:00.002-05:00

I don't want to totally ruin the Christmas card because I'm still hoping to get it out eventually, but here are some out takes. Merry Christmas! Love the Washburns.

Sweet Dreams

2011-12-06T00:39:00.001-05:00

reaching...

2011-12-05T00:35:00.001-05:00

Liam- the ladies man

2011-11-23T02:05:00.001-05:00

Go Seminoles!

2011-11-05T22:02:00.001-04:00

Some more Merri-Mac action from my little Seminole.

October was for Pumpkins

2011-11-04T23:16:00.004-04:00

A few weeks bfore Halloween we had the pleasure of joining several friends at the pumpkin patch. Here are some pictures from the day. (also I tried to spend a while presenting the pictures well since there are so many, but that didn't really work. So just enjoy them as they zig-zag across the screen.

Tigger

2011-10-14T00:24:00.000-04:00

Puddles has earned another nick name thanks to his new favorite pass time.

Haley tried to give him lessons.

September is for Apples

2011-10-12T00:23:00.000-04:00

We had the opportunity to go apple picking with some friends at a near by orchard. It was a great day. They hiked up past the labeled trees and found a wonderful secret spot up in the orchard. The trees were covered with delicious apples waiting to be picked. We got several baskets full (and by we I mean they, I think Haley and I only actually picked 2) of the best tasting apples I have ever had. My only regret is that we never found out what kind they were. I guess we'll just have to go back to our secret spot again next year.

Erin is the toughest girl I know. Made even more impressive by the fact that she's a month away from having her second baby. She threw my girl on her shoulders and hiked up a huge hill. I lagged behind huffing and puffing with my boy and my wagon.

Greetings from a friend. They could have done this for hours.

Haley's Eve moment

I love her boots!

Picnic; Made complete by apple doughnuts and apple cider slushies.

SO, what did I do with a basket full of apples? We ate several just as they are, and then I made some apple sauce. I felt very domestic steaming the apples and pureeing them into apple sauce for Haley and into one of Liam's first foods. And then when I was making the third batch, and waiting for them to be ready, I paused to play with Liam. That's when the smoke detectors started going off. Apparently if you let them steam too long all the sugar drains to the bottom of the pan and caramelizes and then turns into charred blackness that sticks to your favorite pot (that they no longer sell at Wal-Mart :( or Target or anywhere) Then I felt a little less like a domestic goddess. But luckily there was enough for Haley to have some delicious apple sauce the next 2 days. Her asking for more helped renew my confidence and once I find a replacement pot I will be back in the kitchen tackling my next baby food making adventure. Pumpkin anyone?

Happy Birthday Meme

2011-09-29T23:39:00.000-04:00

About a week ago my mom celebrated her birthday. So in honor of the occasion I took Haley on a photo shoot in the dress my mom has been anxious to see pictures of her in. It was a gift given to my mom for me, a baptismal gown from England. It now fits Haley more like a dress than a gown, but it is still lovely. Haley was not terribly excited about taking photos on this dreary day, but she smiled a few time with the promise of breadsticks waiting on her when we finished.

Strider

2011-09-28T17:27:00.005-04:00

Haley riding Ryann's bike Haley's bike. Her birthdy present from aunt "neena". She loves the bike but would rather take the pads out of the helmet and throw it than wear it. We'll get there.

Preview- Some of our recent adventures

2011-08-28T00:54:00.000-04:00

Here are some of the things we have been up to lately. Hopefully there will be more pictures of each event up soon.

Ladybug Girl returns

babies at a baby shower- part 1

Some days (like my birthday) we wear scrubs

Green umbrella

Bath Paints

Haley's Sesame Street Birthday Party

Liam's Baptism

Babies at a baby shower- part 2

Wings at the Sourwood Festival

Liam- 3 Months

2011-08-13T00:04:00.000-04:00

My little 3 month old is a joy.

He has an incredibly cheerie disposition.

He loves to smile and laugh. Sometimes his laughs are soundless, sometime they are from the bells. Precious!

He still spits up constantly. But he usually smiles about it.

He has wonderful head and arm strength. He is a fan of tummy time. He is an observer.

Every so often he looks at you and widens his eye's. Heart melted!

He looks like his sister most of all. But also like a mini Zach.

He crinkles his forehead old man style - I love it.

He's not much of one for grabbing things, but he will reach for his animals on his bouncer, and pull out his binky (which he has gotten better at taking).

He is a chatterbox. He gets in moods where he will coo and ah-goo for as long as he can hold an audience. If you do it back to him it gets him laughing. (see above)

He has lost a few weight percentiles but is definitely growing. (He is now smaller than his baby friend who was born 3 weeks later and 2 pounds lighter to put it into perspective) Please don't be confused though, he is still a tall little chunk.

He loves to be held. Always! And I wear him a lot (but I would probably wear him more if he would stop spitting up down my shirt- yuck!)

He is very tolerant of being handled by his sister

He hardly ever complains. Unless he is gassy- that makes him mad. Also, he has the stinkiest farts of any baby on this side of the Mississippi. I don't know if that's official, but we'll just say it is. It would probably help if his regular pooping schedule was more than once a week. (apparently that can be normal for breast fed babies)

He is starting to sleep for longer stints at night. Starting usually between 11 and 12. Usually I get one 4-5 hour feeding break. After after that he'll go right back to sleep after eating until his 2nd breakfast a around 9am. He also spits up less at night.

But he makes up for it in the morning. With puking unseen since taking care of friends with low tolerances at high school parties.

On another note. I miss my green chair. We put it in the basement while some friends stayed with us for the summer. But I miss taking pictures of my babies in the green chair in their bum genius diapers. Unfortunately was never able to get the smell all the way out. But I am feeling an itch to try again. And the chair will be back soon. (I just hate that I missed 2 months worth of pictures in it)

Haley's Birthday

2011-08-12T14:46:00.000-04:00

All day long when someone would say "Happy Birthday Haley", she would parrot it back. "Happy Birt-day Mommy"

She also sang herself the birthday song after hearing it from her Aunt Christina.

She also practiced all day saying "I two" and when we asked her how old she was the next day, she could say it.

Sleeping the night before her birthday.

Her Loot

Birthday Pancakes

Skater girl

Puzzles

Tent (it still needs some work)

Her "who-who" cake (that's her favorite green stuffed monkey)

Liam tried some ice cream too

Dandelions?

MAX

2011-07-30T23:04:00.001-04:00

The night max wore his wolf suit, and made mischief of one kind....

I love these PJs, Haley wore them frequently and they always made me smile. So now that Liam's grown into them I think he has earned himself the same nickname as his dad. Based off of a different favorite children's book. I hope it sticks.

Friday Favorites - July

2011-07-29T23:16:00.000-04:00

I didn't know squatt about being a successful parent @ Zen family habits

8 tips to getting your kids to listen @ simple marriage

understanding the numbers @ momtog (about DSLR lenses)

The art of non-sexual touch @ simple marriage (holding hands, not just for kids)

Pillow Talk @ Pixel Perfect

Pressing the reset button @ Fast Forward Girl

16 ways to find personal rest @ incourage

How to be a professional mom @ simple mom

behind the scenes of a bento photo @ wendolonia

What I want you to know series @ rage against the mini-van

When I grow up @ enjoying the small things

Should I bring my camera @ The creative mama

Teaching toddlers biblical words @ I"ll think about that tomorrow

Potty training 101 @ a purpose driven home

Why photography @ the creative mama

The glorified truth @ enjoying the small things

speak up! why we should use big words with little kids @ not just cute

When will power is trumped by bad habits @ Zen habits

Pinspired- Week 3

2011-07-28T23:21:00.000-04:00

My Creation:

A delicious treat for small group. S'more croissants. Ryann helped.

My Inspiration:

click for link

Pinspired- week2

2011-07-27T02:08:00.000-04:00

My Creation:
A thank you card for the diaper shower they threw us at work. Get it, "diaper shower".

This is the one I sent out

It didn't turn out quite as well as I imagined, but I think it is still really cute. And since I lost the sheet saying who gave me which diapers, I figured a blanket e-mail to the staff thanking them for the shower would work. (Plus- I am way behind on thank you notes. I wrote the other ones about a month ago, and then finally addressed envelopes last week. Now I just need to get stamps and actually put them in the mail. But, I guess it's better then the one's that are still sitting around from when Haley was born, or the ones for her first birthday that were never written.) I may do another one that just says thank you to send out with all the belated thank you cards. This would also make a cute birth announcement for a newborn, just add birth stats.

My Inspiration:

When I saw this one I got the idea to hang diapers from an umbrella. Only problem, Liam can't sit up, or hold an umbrella.

I lost the link to this first picture, because I saved it on my desk top instead of actually saving it to pinterest. That's what I always did with my inspiration before discovering pinterest. My desktop appreciates that site. And I appreciate having the permalinks permanently linked to each inspiring photo.

This gave me the idea to apply the first idea to chalk.

What has been inspiring you lately...

oh, and tomorrow (hopefully) I'll be putting up pictures from week 3's pinspiration.

Bubbles

2011-07-25T23:38:00.000-04:00

Some days we wear overalls

2011-07-17T00:59:00.000-04:00

I did not get the picture I was hoping for ( I came close in the set that were overexposed) but I am still happy with the photos I took today. I had a blast playing with my kids and bribing the older one with junior mints.

Haley is becoming so adventurous; she is delightful to watch.

Nothing can brighten a sour moment like Liam's smile, priceless!

VBS & Sole Hope

2011-07-14T23:30:00.000-04:00

I grew up going to Vacation Bible School every summer. We would travel to South Georgia for a week at my Nana's house and VBS at her sweet southern baptist church. WE had friends there that we would see each summer as we joined our cousins for a week of bible stories, crafts, and songs.

This Monday I was volunteering at our VBS. For the past 3 summers I have organized my churches tent in our community VBS event. It was great to just be a volunteer this summer. But the best part was bringing Haley along. in 09 I was very pregnant during VBS, and last year Haley stayed home with her dad. But this year I went with Liam strapped in his moby wrap, and dropped Haley off in childcare with her friends. They had the opportunity to explore. They saw the performance, met a horse and a donkey, did crafts, and went to the egyptian marketplace.

I am excited for Haley to grow up being a part of this event. I look forward to seeing what she gets to experience each year, and seeing what new things she learns bout Christ. But for this year it was just fun to watch her and her little friends get herded around the primary school where VBS was hosted as they took in a whole new experience.

The big project the kids did this year was cut out fabric for shoes for children in Africa through the organization Sole Hope. Since the little ones have not mastered scissors, they got to decorate fabric, which will be turned into cute little shoes to protect the feet of children half way around the world.

Pinspired- week 1

2011-07-14T22:53:00.000-04:00

I have been inspired by pinterest.

Pinterest is a place to bookmark ideas and find inspiration. I could spend hours happily looking at pages of the things people found interesting enough to share. However, if I am going to spend this much time sucked into it's images, I need to make sure I act on the inspiration. So for the next year I want to create something or try something i've bookmarked at least once a week.

I got the idea from a blog I like to read. The author joined a flicker group where people are posting pictures of their creations, style choices, and cooking experiments based off of ideas they found on pinterest.

So each week I encourage you other bloggers out there to write about what you're doing and share your creative inspirations here.

My first pinterest-inspired craft project is an airplane, made from a cardboard box.

My Creation:

We received a shipment in a big box and i knew I wanted to turn it into something. I was deciding between car, plane, and play kitchen. I looked online for ideas and decided to try the plane. I added some buttons for the girls to play with. (I hope to add numbers to the buttons on the left and some sort of steering wheel). The front propeller is attached with a cooking skewer held on by rubber bands. Haley didn't like the plane at first, and tried to rip off all the pieces of paper. But since I've made it she has gotten better at pretending (I think playing with her buddy helped her learn).
Also I just cut slits for the wings and tail. They fall out easily when both girls are playing, but it also helps with storage when the girls are done playing.

My Inspiration:

Being Inspired by pinterest works for me.

I hope you all will join me in linking up to share which ideas you've tried from pinterest. For more pinspiration check back next Wednesday.

( I am trying to get a linky with thumbnails set up, but in the meantime you can leave a link to your blog in the comments section.)

The Weekend

2011-07-11T23:18:00.003-04:00

Pool

Swimming with friends at the community pool. These girls are a blast.

B.O.B.

Test driving the BOB ironman duallie.

We have a wonderful double stroller that is a travel system. Perfect for tournaments and long trips etc. (It stores everything you need for a day out and Haley can even take a nap in it) And we have a double jogging stroller. But the plan is to sell the other jogging stroller for this craigslist beauty. I like it's side by side design- to avoid future hair pulling etc., it's great for running (5K training here I come), and perfect for short trips into town.

Shades
Haley put on her brother's shades and grabbed my cell phone. I think she looks like a sorority girl in training.

Beard
Liam need a burp cloth everywhere he goes. But this time it looked like a sweet neck beard.

Bravery
As Haley becomes less clumsy she has been gaining confidence in her physical abilities and she has become much more brave. When she helps pick up the mats at church she will usually "jump" off of them. This entails her crouching down really low, and then stepping off very enthusiastically while saying jump and giggling. But this Sunday she actually started to jump. I was so proud. She has also been consistently tackling slides on her own. (finally!!)

Art
We do not have a driveway. So, in an effort to bring more opportunities to be artistic into Haley's days I created a massive chalk board for her. This is the plywood we got to cover her sandbox in the rain. Move it up to the porch (away from the mosquitoes, and on a flat surface- I should have gotten thicker plywood) and it's a makeshift driveway. This was easy to make- I just sprayed on chalkboard paint by following the can's instructions- it took 2 cans and 3 coats. I love how vibrant the colors are. It has also already been used as a perfect photo prop.

Puddles

Warning- not for the faint of heart

My son comes by his nick name honestly...

(Don't worry, he have talked to his doctor about his massive piles of spit up. He is gaining weight, smiley and safely in the "normal" range. Personally I think his skills, though not always pleasant, are quite impressive.)

Who you calling puddles?

Exhibit A

Exhibit B

Liam- 2 Months

2011-07-09T22:57:00.001-04:00

Liam had his 2 month appointment on Tuesday the 5th (8 days after he turned 2 months old) His stats from that appointment

13lbs. 2 oz.

24in.

He's 75th percentile for height and weight. He's dropped a few percentiles for weight and stayed about the same for height. But I have a feeling he will make up for lost time soon.

Some facts about Liam at 2 months:
He is cooing occasionally.
He spits up puddles.
He kicks his legs constantly and is really gassy.
He has beautiful big smiles and is gernerally very content.
He has wonderful head strength and is very observant, constantly looking up and around.
He just started sleeping several hours at night.
He is starting to reach around his face for things like his binky.
He likes to suck his knuckles.
He likes to be held and to be worn.
He seems very jittery and startles easily, although his startle reflex is slowly waning.
His legs are always tightly crossed together. Its my favorite thing when he's sleepy and you pick him up and his legs stay tucked.

I love this boy!

Happy Fourth!

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

Here is a peak into our church going (on the 3rd), firework watching (but not the little ones), tie-dye wearing, parade riding, cooking out adventures.

Happy 4th of July!

Haley's Boyfriend part 2

2011-07-01T22:22:00.000-04:00

i know I promised more pictures of Haley and her buddy a few days ago, and I'm sorry it took so long, but here they are. Hopefully the computer problems are over now that we have a new power cord. Now if only I could add a few extra hours to each day.

Haley's buddy is really not her boyfriend at all. In fact he's the grandson of my boss He is about 6 months older than Haley. They don't see each other often, but when they do they get along swimingly. I don't know if they've ever said two words to each other, or if they even know each other's names, but they are still buddies.

The beach retreat a year ago

This year at the Valentines Day dance

They were dancing together for several minutes, once they started they didn't really know how to stop until he eventually decided he wanted to let go.

At the pre-beach retreat last month

Haley was playing on the basketball court. It was time to go so her buddy took her hand to lead her off. Then they kept walking together around the picnic pavilion, ad into the grass. Haley was content to follow his lead, even though I'm not sure either of them really knew where they were going.

Precious!

Friday Favorites- June

2011-07-01T13:26:00.001-04:00

How to get a child to stay in her bedroom @ steady mom (this has some great ideas in the comments)

Adult roles in child's play @ not just cute

5 steps to maximize summer @ Simple Marriage

Make your own Backyard Obstacle Course @ Simple Kids

RV there yet? @ Mckmama (a post on enjoying the journey instead of focusing solely on the destination)

What I want my kids to know about marriage @ We are THAT Family

children's scrapbook ideas @ Nurture Store

Pinterest a beginners guide @ sorta crunchy

Falling in love from behind the lens @ Creative mama

6 tips for enjoying messy arts and crafts @ doodle place

Fun ideas for summer
@ smile monsters
@ she sparkles
@ simple mom- intentional summer
@ simple mom- at home

Haley's Boyfriend

2011-06-23T23:11:00.000-04:00

Some of you saw pictures from the valentines dance.
Well, Haley and her friend were reunited for another hand holding adventure.

Stay tuned tomorrow to see more...

Haley's bug

2011-06-23T10:03:00.001-04:00

My internet access has been in and out for a variety of reasons (storms and mac power cords...) and may continue to be so over the next few days (traveling...) so sorry if posts have been and will be scarce again for a while.

But here's a quick Haley story to make you smile.

Today after story time at the library we went to the park. There were 4 other kids there that Haley knows but she mostly kept to herself, eating her snack and wondering around our newly discovered playground. While she wandered the 3 bigger kids caught bugs. And occasionally brought them over to Haley for her to look at.

Fast forward about 6 hours.

We had some dinner guests and sent Haley to the fenced in backyard to play in her sandbox while we chatted at the table. At one point Haley came rushing to the door saying "bug, bug" with a joyful, proud grin on her face.
Squished between her two fingers she held her new little friend.
She tried to bring the bug inside and I was hesitant to let her enter with her bug in tow. At first glance it looked like a piece of dirt. But I was a little worried she would be bringing some sort of spider into the house. (We've had a lovely lightening bug in our living room the last two nights, but I think a ladybug is the only other critter I would gladly accept inside)
I leaned in closer to examine Haley's bug and saw a little head with antlers. Hmmm... I thought, is that an ant?... No. (Haley's fingers loosen and the bug begins to wiggle away, revealing little yellow and black stripes) a bee! (and not the friendly honey bee kind, the yellow jacket, sting you and make you cry, kind) I don't remember exactly what I did next but I'm pretty sure I smacked it out of her hand and yanked her inside away from it's pointy stinger.
Luckily she was not stung, and I'm sure she still doesn't understand why I didn't like her little friend that she was so proud to have captured. Makes me think of "I'm bringing home my baby bumble bee" and I was proud that she wasn't afraid of the bugs, but we might have to work on deciding which ones are ok to bring home. All this while being careful not to impart my arachnophobia on her. (One of the Dad's at the park was doing such a great job of teaching about how good bugs and spiders are. The whole time I was thinking, yuck! spiders. eek! )

In Liam news

last night we went to bed at around 12:30. We didn't wake up until about 5:45.
I woke up and I looked at the clock to see what time it was. I immediately looked over at Liam to make sure he was ok, since he usually wakes up every 2-3 hours. I put my hand on his back and felt him peacefully breathing in his happy sleepy place. The panic left as quickly as it had set in and I smiled knowing my little boy practically slept through the night.

Liam's bed at the home :)

Tears and Rain

2011-06-15T23:38:00.001-04:00

Some of my favorite images from my most recent download.

They really do look alike

First Real Tears

Staring at the Rain

Head strong...

2011-06-14T23:06:00.041-04:00

Liam still hasn't gotten much face time on the blog. He's sleeping in my arms which makes it difficult to type so this will be brief. But I promised more posts and I want to deliver on that promise, even if the attempt is limited, including rough pictures, poor grammar, bad spelling, and general mediocrity. I tend to have big ideas for posts and little followthrough. I guess 2 kids and a job with 8 extra kids will do that to you. And like I said before, some of these pictures and things may be seriously outdated.

These pictures are from May 21st. My little guy was not quite 4 weeks old. Now, I may be biased, but I think this is pretty impressive for that age. The kids got major head strength- serious tummy time skills. I think think this just reinforces the fact that I gave birth to a 1 month old. Yep, a 10 pound 7 ounce one month old.

In other news

Haley's hair is getting super long and I refuse to cut it yet. So I've been getting more creative with her up-do's.
Liam was 12 pounds at my 6 week check up. His 0-3 month clothes are getting awfully snug.
Haley's skills as an artist are drastically improving. She can focus on trying to color a specific character and she is much more intentional about drawing loops instead of just random lines.
Liam most recent nickname is puddles, due to the massive amounts of spit up he produces. I'll let you in on some more of the nicknames soon.
Haley has started learning to throw her little basketball. She is quite horrible at it; but it's adorable when she says "weddy" and she loves chasing the ball around.
Liam is about the noisiest eater I've ever heard, plus he snores when he sleeps. He is generally just a kid who likes to be heard. (Hmmm.. like's the sound of his own voice- wonder where he gets that from)
Haley's vocabulary is rapidly expanding. She's a pro at her body parts, and animal names and sounds. She is quickly learning her colors and types of clothes and we've been starting on numbers. She's also linking words together, especially possessives (Haley's ball, Mommy's key). And she's doing great with the names of her family, her little friends, and the boys.
I have been keeping with running every day (a few days more pitiful than others, even one night of doing butt kicks and high knees down my hallway for 5 minutes, but we'll count it.) Zach joined me one night last week, and my friend at work joined me tonight, it feels good to run with company. Also we're planning to run a 5K this fall. I'm pretty excited to have a goal set.

Kind of like Sisters

2011-06-11T00:44:00.000-04:00

As I think I've mentioned, we have the pleasure of sharing our home this summer with some of our great friends. Zach has a fellow seminary student/ preacher to discuss theology with. I have a wonderful friend to talk to, laugh with, be motivated by, and learn from. And Haley has a big sister.

Having them in our house is a huge blessing. We can share the responsibilities with the kids, allowing for late night ice cream runs, mid day solo trips to the grocery store, and showers with our spouses (all luxuries that can be tricky to come by with little kids). We take turns with cooking and cleaning, meaning a few night off each week. They are wonderful parents who we are constantly learning from, especially since they rock at discipline, they have done an excellent job teaching their 3 year old to listen and obey. They are generally just good people who we enjoy spending time with and learning from. I am so excited to spend our summer together.

I think Haley and Ryann are loving this time together the most. These two love playing together. Ryann drags Haley around on her adventures, and Haley looks up to Ryann with wide eyes, ready to copy her every move. They do occasionally fight like sisters, and we are still trying to work out the nap time situation but their days usually consist of playing and laughing together. They play on the swing or in the sandbox, putting on tutu's and dancing around, pulling all the books off the shelves, or pushing their dolls around in their strollers. It is a joy to watch these two play together.

These girls are so similar. They are such typical little girls in many ways, and even look kind of like sisters. But, It is a neat to see their differences. God has crafted them as unique individuals, their personalities already shining through and setting them apart. I look forward to watching them both grow up, and seeing how he will use their passions and gifts to advance his kingdom. They both already have so much love to give, and I believe they truly do care about each other. I hope they will always be surrounded with great friends who will bless them as this family has blessed me.

The girls in their elements, Ryann with an arm full of dolls, Haley with a book.

They love playing together at bath time.

We love our snuggly clean girls who give us sweet hugs and kisses good night.

Balloons

2011-06-08T22:59:00.001-04:00

At work last week we had an awards banquet. Part of the decorations were a long string full of balloons. The perfect opportunity to take colorful photos. Haley wanted to hold them, but she didn't want me to help and she kept letting go. I tried tying the string to her shirt; she didn't like that. I ended up trading back and forth which end I was holding as she fought me for it.

While balloons are fun and bring a lot of joy, they also bring tears. It is a blast to watch them float away, but when a toddler realizes they can't have their cake and eat it too, beware the storm of tears. Balloons slip out of fingers, float away, and pop in the grass. So in light of the discovery that balloons are in fact evil. (hang with me here) 2 of my co-workers/ friends started creating an album full of songs about balloons. It is a hilarious undertaking involving Weird Al style lyrics with Jack Johnson style melodies. I think one of these pictures may be the perfect album cover. Enjoy.

Haley's Plant

2011-06-06T23:21:00.000-04:00

Haley and I took a trip to the tailgate market that is open on Saturday's all summer long. We bought a tomato plant and a few days later Haley used the gardening tools she got for easter to help me plant it next to her daddy's blueberry bushes. The next week we got a green pepper plant and we planted it with Ryann's help too. I'm hoping to get at least on pepper and one tomato and I will feel like we have an accomplished first garden. With these plants and the blueberries that are already producing fruit Haley will have a green thumb in no time.

A funny story: The market is a small gathering of vendors behind a local church. There are about 15-20 little tents set up selling organic local produce, homemade bread, plants, soaps, chocolate and small crafts. We live about 4 blocks away and love to walk to the market to see friends, neighbors, and puppies. especially the really big ones that look like teddy bears. As we walked around the market for the first time this summer Haley enjoyed sampling chocolates, strawberries, and other treats. Then when I turned my back on her to sample some chocolate she reached up to the neighboring table to take one of the treats they were selling, then took a big bite out of it. She looked up at me with a "mommy, this does not taste very good" look. and then I laughed as I pulled the goats milk soap out of her mouth.

Do not take things without asking: lesson learned.

Sunday Afternoon Hike

2011-06-05T22:16:00.000-04:00

Last Sunday afternoon we decided to go on a hike with our friends who are staying with us for the summer. As we were leaving Zach's mom and brother showed up (they ended their backpacking trip a day early). Brennan decided to join us on our hike, and it was a good thing too since we forgot our hiking backpack in the excitement of the moment. Haley's buddy Ryann was a champion hiker, backpack and all. Haley did pretty well on her own two feet, but was really slow and easily distracted (I have no idea where she got THAT from), so her dad and uncle took turns carrying her up to the summit.

Th girls paused for some hugs at the halfway point.

Haley was not feeling it.

First family of four hike photo!

Liam rode up the mountain in the moby wrap. I was glad to have an excuse not to carry the squirmy, quickly growing, toddler.

All the hiking really wore him out.

After a short fight involving some large sticks the girls were happy to say sorry and give hugs.

Haley had a delicious snack after it smashed open in the diaper bag and spilled all over the camera.

Brennan was a bit nervous holding Liam over the jagged rocks.

I got the girls to stop for a minute so they could stand in this fun hollowed out tree that I love.

The perfect hiding spot.

Even though I am crazily out of shape it was a lot of fun to hit the trails with the kids. In the 4 years I have lived in the mountains I have not spent a lot of time outside. I am hoping that this summer will be a new beginning of hiking and playing outdoors. I hope to instill in Haley and Liam a love for the mountains and an appreciation for God's creation.

As a kid I loved Pipi Longstocking. One of my favorite lines describing her was that the mountains please her more than toys do. I hope that this will be true of my kids, that they will find as much or more joy in bugs, flowers, rock walls, and sunsets as they do in blocks, dolls, cars, and TV shows.

Liam - 1 month

2011-06-04T23:22:00.002-04:00

My son is over a month old. Here are some observations from his first month.

He spits up- a lot. And when I say a lot I mean that I have no idea how he is growing at all because he seems to regurgitate his entire meal after every feeding.
He is very gassy. This is probably the only thing, other than hunger, that upsets him. But he kicks his legs and works it out... sometimes very loudly.
He is a bit of a nocturnal creature, usually having his last awake period of the day from around 11pm to 1am. I usually stay up late whit him; we're on a college kid schedule
During the night he eats lying down and falls asleep in my arms. His gas and spitting up seem to be less of a problem at night.
He is a noisy sleeper. He breaths very heavily and snores a little.
He makes very sweet noises when he's awake. Especially when he's hungry.
He has a hard time latching on when he eats, he just gets so excited that it's almost time for food that he can't stop shaking his head.
He is content to sit in his bouncy seat for a long time, or even sleep there, but he would rather be in someone's arms.
He has not peed on his mom and dad too many times, but he did manage to get the wall of the midwife's office once when he pooped.
He holds his head up very well. I am amazed at how high he can lift himself off his tummy, especially if he's resting on someone's shoulder.
I adore the way his legs stay tucked up when he is moved from place to place. He managed to latch them around his car seat buckle the first few times I tried to get him out and almost lifted the seat with his grip.
All babies have a startle reflex but his seems to be easily triggered. He is a content but jumpy little guy.
He is not especially fussy and seems to be very well tempered. Is is very patient with his sister and all of her friends who like to bounce him, cover him with blankets, and shove his inky in his mouth
He spent the first few days of his life resembling a turtle. Now I think he looks a little like a mouse.
He smiles often. Especially when he's dozing off and you lightly stroke his cheek.
He only fit in his newborn clothes and diapers for about a week, and they were quite snug.

We planned to hold off on giving Liam a pacifier until he was at least a month old lie we did with Haley, but he was constantly acting hungry and then spitting up his food, so we tried to hold him off with a pacifier so he could digest for a little while and keep some food in. If nothing else it gave me a little bit of a break from being a human pacifier.

I love almost nothing more than taking photos of my kids. They are precious to me and I love capturing little moment of their lives to be forever remembered. I love trying to turn everyday moment in to art. Sometimes my pictures seem to be sorely lacking. Other times, when I'm not even expecting it, I will get a picture that makes me smile over and over again, a picture that captures the essence of a moment, a day, a personality, a mood, or a time. With two kids it is a bit harder to set up photos like I did with Haley, but I have still tried to find the beauty in the mundane moments of life. I have never been great with words, so I hope I can tell our story through pictures. I will try to add more of these pictures soon, and hopefully I can set up a few more photos I really want to have in the next few weeks. As someone who would like to one day pursue photography, I hope to take advantage of the moment with my own children to try the ideas I have gathered from other more experienced photographers.

The 1 month photoshoot.

I am excited to see how Liam grows compared to a basketball. It will be neat to see him go from being the size of the ball, to being able to palm the ball in his hand.

June is for Running!

2011-06-02T23:43:00.005-04:00

Kelle Hampton from enjoying the small things talked about running every day this month in her post hello june. That was the motivation I needed to finally follow through on some goals.

Last January (a year and a half ago) I had a great idea for a new years resolution. I would pick a goal each month, and focus that month on following through with it. This way I would implement some lifestyle changes, one at a time, instead of committing to too many goals and sticking with none of them. But, I never actually started this brilliant idea of mine, even when the next new year that I was holding out for came and went.

So, I've decided that if I want to make changes, why wait until January first. So I am committing to run every day this month. It doesn't have to be far, it doesn't have to be pretty. If need be it can be a jog down the street and back in my flip flops, although hopefully I can be more thorough than that. It's day 2 and so far so good.

What I have realized so far is that I am incredibly out of shape. I guess not exercising for 9 months, plus recovery time after, will do that to you. Even after my morning sickness subsided I was pretty sedentary for the second trimester, and by the time the third rimester rolled around my belly was too big to do much more than stretch. Plus, it's not very fun to run around when it's cold outside, and I'm a wimp.

I have also realized something else. Running can be fun. I would still much rather be running after something (a soccer ball, a frisbee, and obstacle course etc.) but it feels good to get my legs moving and my heart pumping. I was doing a great job of getting in shape last summer before I found out about the peanut, and I think that as the weather gets warmer my motivation is slowly seeping back.

Megan Francis from The Happiest Mom also wrote a post about June. June: It's all about you. In it she says that in planning fun stuff for our families this summer, mom's should also consider how many hours there are and plan some fun stuff for themselves. She also has some good ideas, like taking a class to pursue a hobby. I would love to take a photography, pottery, or painting class. I would also love to join a soccer team or go climbing.

I think that as parents we are better able to serve our kids when we don't feel like we're losing ourselves. By spending time with the people we love, and doing adult based activities we enjoy we are able to still live our lives, which means we can be more committed to our kids when we are with them and we can model for them a healthy balance of serving our families and taking care of ourselves. One of my biggest struggles is filling unstructured time surfing blogs, looking at facebook pictures, or watching reruns on hulu and netflix. I am with my kids but not giving them my attention. But when I take time to do something I love, like going to lunch with friends, I come back ready to give my kids 100%. win win.

Here are some other goals I hope to pursue in the upcoming months.

Drink at least 8 cups of water a day. I have never been a big water drinker so this is important. I also tend to act on my sweet tooth when I'm really just dehydrated. However, I must add that since I got my new camelbak water bottle I have been drinking a lot more. It has become my new fidgeting habit.
Read the bible every day. I did this for lent and it was great. I have been much better since, but can already tell I'm slipping again.
Read a book. I spend so much time reading magazines and blogs that i forget to read quality literature. I hope my kids will see me reading and learn to love it themselves. Part of this is also reading with them every day, patiently, talking about the pictures on each page, and without rushing to the end.
Play with my children each day. Make my daughter laugh and actually follow through on my plans for her week. I will try to write more about my plans for our weekly schedule that usually is forgotten. Play with and sing to my son more, it's easy to forget to when they are so unresponsive.
Make out with my husband every day. This post from simple marriage gave me some extra inspiration for this idea. 10 second KISS.
Edit my pictures as they come. I can take over a thousand pictures in an afternoon if given the opportunity, so you can imagine why I get so behind on posting them. I would love to stay on top of this for a change and maybe even get in a better habit of deleting bad photos. I feel like his is easier to do when the photos are fresh, there is less of an attachment. Hopefully I can stick with this habit and even start making memory books or seasonal slideshows for my kids.
Stick to a budget and record each purchase. We have the best of intentions to d this each month, but I don't think we've followed through for a full month yet.
Become more passionate about prayer. Pray with my husband each night., and listen to the spirit. Pray for my friends when they have needs, right then and there.
Spend time outside each day. This one becomes much more of a problem when it's cold. But even the burden of getting bundled in layers upon layers is worth it.

I'm sure I will come up with more ideas, or find more ideas jotted down on sticky notes, buried in my backpack. But I would also love to hear from you. You can do just about anything for 31 days or less. What are some lifestyle changes you would like to commit to, even if only for a month.

The Blog...

2011-06-01T23:58:00.000-04:00

As anyone reading this knows, It's been a while.

Ever since I started working at the home it has been difficult to maintain my blog. In August morning sickness added to the difficulty and I have rarely posted since then.

I enjoy photographing my kids and sharing those photos with family and friends. I also enjoy sharing my experiences with other moms, in hopes that someone can lean from my ideas and my mistakes. I am not good at keeping up with baby books and I am very glad I have highlights from the first few months of Haley's life recorded . I hope that I will be able to devote the same amount of attention, if not time, to writing about my newest baby.

With these thoughts in mind I am attempting to revive my blog. There are many things I want to write about, but in attempt to catch up I often get overwhelmed and write nothing. I am going to try to stop being so hard on myself and just move on when I don't finish a post or if I skip an important milestone. I will try to keep the post coming even when I get discouraged, and occasionally I maygo back and finish a post I never finished, or never even started. So here is a list of things I may (or may not) post about.

But first, an introduction.

Liam Isaiah Washburn was born on April 27th at 5:04 am

10lbs. 7oz. 20 1/2 in.

He's a big "onion"

Haley is slowly adjusting to being a big sister. She misses her one on one attention, but seems to like having a baby around.

So, without further ado, some things to look forward to...

Laim's birth story and 1 month update
An update on Haley: she is a chatterbox who loves books, tutus, boots, and the sandbox
Haley's favorite toys and my other favorite baby gear
Summer plans for me and for the kids
Liam's pictures from his time in the oven, and his attempted photo shoots since.
Some thoughts on motherhood, prayer, and whatever else keeps me awake until one in the morning.
My latest crafting endeavors

So I hope you're still checking back and I hope you're excited for more. I make no guarantees but I will try to give you something to come back for at least once a week (but hopefully a lot more. If nothing else it seems like a good way to spend the time until Liam falls asleep.

Also, if you are still reading I let me know, maybe it's the inspiration I need to keep updating. Also, I have a challenge for you. My creative juices have been mommy brained, and I need a new name for my blog. Any suggestions would be much appreciated, as well as ideas for what you would like to read about or see pictures of.

And I leave you with this for the night. The Washburn family at it's finest.

Friday Favorites- May

2011-05-27T11:19:00.001-04:00

I post these because I like them. (and now I have the links to read them again and again. You may like them too.

What I really want for mothers day @ Mama Notes

Family rules @ Little bit funky

How to love your kids when you don't really like them @ Steady Mom

The best way not to help a new mom @ The gypsy mama

suggestions for staying sane while traveling with kids @ the gypsy mama

journal jars @ made

how a dad really loves a daughter @ we are that family

A mothers day confession @ not just cute

hang up and parent @ weird-bird

Encore @ Enjoying the small things (I love what she has to say about celebrating birthdays- also check out the previous post for an amazing birthday party)

How to encourage your child to be creative even when you're not @ Not just cute

My favorite things-s summer edition @ creative mama

80 inexpensive or free summer activities @ crystal and comp

Friday Favorites- April

2011-04-29T22:19:00.001-04:00

Sometimes you improvise @ steady mom

Top 10 party tips @ ReMarkable Home

Family Binders @ I heart organizing and clean and scentsible

Easter basket fillers @ simply modern mom

Start your day by eating a frog @ simple mom

Simple Elements for Backyard fun @ Simple Kids

Earth Day @ The Jernigan Wagon

13 things parent do to inhibit real play @ Having fun at home

Treasure Baskets @ The Imagination Tree

Matchy Matchy- Mommy and Me Monday!

2011-04-04T09:36:00.000-04:00

Some days ...

we match!

Big Sister Practice & Being Brave

2011-04-03T21:48:00.003-04:00

Haley is very excited about being a big sister. She will give the baby kisses and point to my belly and say brother. I don't think she really understands what is coming, but she does love all the babies at church and she loves playing with her dolls.

When our new car seat arrived Haley decided to practice using it with her doll. (We'll just ignore the fact that she's upside down)

Haley especially loved moving the shade up and down. I think she will enjoy the simple tasks like that to be mommy;s little helper. She is very good at throwing away her diapers, a skill that will be useful for a brother who goes thorough several a day.

In preparation for being a big sister Haley is also working on being more brave. She is slowly becoming more willing to go down the slide by herself (especially if I'm not around. There's a slide at work that she will go down torpedo style- face first on her belly, but of course I have yet to see it.)

here haley crawled up to the arm of the couch. She sat there for a minute or two rocking and debating her next move. She even gave me looks like- mom, should I do it?

And then my sweet girl did a back flip right onto the couch. I was beautiful! I was so proud of my big girl. I'm excited to see what adventurous task she'll try next.

Friday Favorites- March

2011-04-01T08:07:00.000-04:00

Guilt free disorganization @ baby-center

10 ways to simplify without becoming a minimalist @ small notebook

How to take a mini-vacation @ frugal family fun

How to really love your kids @ we are that family

Talking to your children about death @ Not just cute

Meaningful lent @ Karen Edmisten (this post is really long, I especially like her ideas for lent

Menu planning @ Little birdie secrets

Developing a new routine 15 minutes at a time @ simple kids

Weekly routines @ simple kids

Draw your story- the illustrated journal @ alpha mom

Early birds and night owls @ simple kids

How to break up with old hobbies @ small notebook

Giving up the pacifier @ parenting magazine

Fond Farwell @ Not ever still

Scrubs

2011-03-19T07:40:00.004-04:00

When Haley was born one of my best friends and her boyfriend came to visit, and with them they brought a cute pair of pink scrubs. Haley finally fits into them. So here is a typical Haley morning with Haley in my new favorite outfit.

Friday Favorites- February

2011-02-25T23:56:00.000-05:00

How to really give @ We are That family

12 Ideas to keep the kids busy on a snowy day @ The mother huddle

The emergency hug @ simple kids

uh- oh's and no- no's @ babbling brook

keep the spark hot @ how does she

planning for long plane trips with kids @ Kind birds

ideas for back to school photos @ I heart faces

10 special valentines day ideas @ Zen family habits

50 things to do with your kids when it's -50 @ serene journey

Cooking for others a guide to giving sympathy meals @ simple bites

Creative pretend play props and ideas @ simple kids

Tips for dinning out with children @ simply modern mom

12 Dates for 2011

2011-02-20T09:12:00.003-05:00

For Christmas I made cards with 12 dates for Zach and 12 Dates for Haley. This is Haley getting ready for and going on her first date, with Daddy. They went to get breadsticks and then to get ice cream.

Haley got all dressed up, she even wore her wings.

She likes to feel pretty. She was brushing her hair and dancing around before they left.

When she came home, she had a balloon. I think she liked her date.

These are some of Haley's date cards. They have pictures to describe what she gets to go do. For example, on the one with the trains we will go to the mall and play at the play place then go to Barnes & Noble and play with the trains.

The blue cards are Daddy dates and the pink cards are Mommy Dates. Then in December we will take her on a special date together. I think that especially when her brother is born she will like the one on one time a lot.

Theses are the cards I made for Zach. The idea is that we already have a plan and now we have to go on a date each month. They are mostly cheap and certainly not fancy. But I am in charge of getting a babysitter and making the date happen. Having a plan makes it much easier to stick to.

My cards did not turn out as cute as I had imagined but they could easily be spiced up with some scrap booking supplies or computer graphics. These would also make a great Valentines day or birthday gift. I think we might start doing them as a new years tradition.

Cleaning Zones -Part 2

2011-02-09T20:45:00.004-05:00

I finally finished my chore cards. Each week I will tackle wither week 1's chore's or week 2's as well as one quarterly chore card. That gives me 5 cards with about 5 chores to do each week that I'm home. If I do that plus my daily tasks I should be able to stay on top of keeping things clean. I listed the plan in detail here.

I like these cards because they're bright and concise and store easily on my refrigerator door.

In addition to the chore cards I made a list of seasonal chores and broke them down into monthly tasks. If I have a huge list for spring cleaning I get easily overwhelmed and none of it gets done, but by having 2-3 small tasks to do each month they yearly tasks around the house will get done. Some tasks need to be done twice a year so those are listed under 2 months.

This system is new but so far it works for me.

Here is that list.

Seasonal Tasks

January

Deep clean fridge & freezer

Self clean oven

February

Deep clean rugs, carpets, duvets & futon cover

Wash pillows and stuffed animals

Wash and clean all Reusable bags and luggage bags

March

Smoke detector batteries (DST)

Summer prep- rotate clothes and bedding (swim suites and jersey sheets)

April

Clean trashcans & outdoor furniture (including grill)

Clean off patio, porch & garage

May

Book & magazine purge

Dust all books & clean book shelves

June

Clean out clothes storage containers & purge clothes

(Put pins on hangers to mark what has been worn in 1 year)

Wash windows & clean screens

July

Wash doors, light fixtures, fans, etc.

Clean washer &dryer

Replace all filters (fridge, AC, vacuum etc.) & clean vents

August

Wash curtains

Dust photos & artwork.

Clean & organize storage space (basement or attic)

Wash and clean all Reusable bags and luggage bags

September

Mop under furniture, including closet floors

Dust walls and baseboards

October

Rake Leaves,

Update CD and DVD collections (purge & alphabetize)

November

Smoke detector batteries (DST)

Change out baking soda in fridge and freezer

Winter prep- rotate clothes and bedding (scarves, hats & flannel sheets)

December

Purge & organize craft supplies

Clean out and organize all storage closets

Purge files

What do you do for your chores? What am I leaving off of my list? or how can I make the system better?

Little Red Wagon

2011-02-02T13:19:00.000-05:00

For Christmas Haley's great grandma and grandpa (Mom mom and dad dad) got her a wagon. While she was napping one day her uncles laughed at me while I assembled it in our living room. ( I felt so hand putting it together, even if I needed a little help getting the wheel caps on- hey, strong brothers have to be useful for something)

When Haley woke up from her nap she was excited to have a new toy to crawl into and explore.

When the weather warmed up a little the next day we decided to take it out for a stroll around the block.

Haley and her doll had fun getting carted around. Haley was ready to pounce at any moment.

It was a fun outing for all!

(made even better by her cute pig tails)

Getting Ready for the peanut!

2011-01-31T21:52:00.003-05:00

In less than 3 months Haley will be a big sister, and I will be the mother to a wonderful baby boy. IT's crazy to think that if something were to happen and he were born today he would probably be ok. But much like the mom at the end of "The Business of Being Born" I would have almost nothing ready. It was nothing until about 2 weeks ago.

My sister got us a double stroller and just over a week ago we finally put it all together (which was easy, mostly just attaching wheels) Then Haley got to test it out.

Watching Daddy's handy work.

Trying the back seat. Which will not be her seat since she already really enjoys playing with the sunshade. I imagine a seat where she can't reach her little brother will make him much happier.

Checking out the reclined option. Nap time here we come.

This stroller, the Graco Quattro tour duo, is fully loaded. IT has cup holders for mom and both babies, a higher handle so even Zach can push it without a back ache. It's pretty easy to open and close. IT has 2 reclining seats, a giant storage basket with easy access and I'm sure there are more perks I'll discover when I'm actually using it to transport 2 little ones. The only downside is that it's really heavy, but I can look at it as a chance to work out when I lift it and it is a built in perk. (who needs a gym membership when you have 2 babies under 2)

It felt really good to do something for the new baby. (I don't have the matching car seat yet but I plan on getting it eventually, probably soon.) Other than that the peanut has a few new onesies, a big box of diapers (size 2s, so they won't fit for the first few months), 2 pacifiers, and some cute bibs.

Most of what the peanut needs will be hand me downs from his sister and from some friends, but it's fun to have a few things that are just for him. I know the nesting will kick in soon and I'll be dragging the bassinet, swing, bouncy seat, moby wrap, and bumbo out of storage. Not to mention going through all of Haley's clothes and pulling out all the neutrals that her brother can wear.

I'm sure I'll post more updates as I prepare for number 2, with lots of questions like is it worth getting another pack n play?

In the meantime I'm looking forward to doing some babysitting and taking a few test runs with the new stroller to get used to it before I have a newborn in tow.

Friday Favorites- January part 2

2011-01-28T23:17:00.000-05:00

Why Chinese mothers are superior- Wall Street Journal... and a response at not just cute.

Are you unknowingly devaluing yourself @ Zen family habits

When one parent is sick @ simple mom

The spiral of successful habits @ zen habits

snip, snip @ weird bird (about circumcision)

Pick your battles @ the morris tribe

10 fun ways to praise your husband @ Women living well

Snow theme story hour @ Training happy hearts

Cleaning Zones -Part 1

2011-01-15T23:44:00.012-05:00

I live in two different places. Every other week I live at work, so I only spend half of my time at home. Because of this it can be very difficult to stay on top of chores, especially if I leave town for a week off. I have still only spent 2 full weeks at my new house. There have been other times that have come close, but little things like busted pipes keep getting in the way.
As a result of my life switching back and forth my house often suffers, but I can also go almost a month having barely slept in my bed, so my housekeeping needs are a little bit different than a typical families.
Combining suggestions from different friends, blogs, and websites (such as fly lady) I have finally thought of a system that I think will work for me. I have broken my home up into 4 zones. Each zones chores are broken up into a list of chores than need to be done every other week I'm home. (That means it's getting done about once a month. Some of these things that seems quite reasonable. Some of these things like washing sheets that seems like too long, but I promise that if it needs it it will get done more, and really that's like a week and a half of actual use which isn't so bad). Each zone also has one or 2 quarterly checklists. So, each week I can tackle one quarterly task.
There is also a seasonal list of chores. I have broken those down into monthly tasks, instead of one overwhelming week of spring cleaning. But I'm still working on that list so it will have to wait. until part 2.
The final part of this is that I have worked daily tasks into my morning and nightly routines (there are some great posts about routines in my Jan links, but I will probably post more on these later, after I've tried them out for a while.) This includes tasks like doing dishes and making the bed. Some things aren't included like closing the blinds (which I tend to do as soon as it gets dark because I don't like feeling exposed to the night) and doing laundry (which I -well really Zach- tend to do as it accumulates and then put away as it get's done, or at least within a day or 2). The tasks that need to be done every week are done on Monday night since Tuesday marks the beginning of my work week.
This is a new system so I'm not sure how it will work yet, but it's better than all of the charts and calendars I have created so far. I'm very visual and hands on with this wort of thing so it helps me to know I have 5 cards worth of chores to do each week. I can get them all done in one day if I'm feeling ambitious, or I can tackle them one day at a time and still feel accomplished.
A few notes on logistics. With the quarterly cards- I will just write the date they were last completed on the back of the card to make sure I don't slack for too long. Also, any time something doesn't get done soon enough I can just do it an extra time, but I think this system will keep me from getting to that breaking point of feeling like I live in filth (lately this has been my strategy, when I can't stand looking at the mess any more I clean it up, not ideal for a "welcoming" home)
The cards will be laminated, color coded (week 1, week 2, quarterly) and kept on a ring on a hook on the fridge
I think this system will work just as well for a normal - home every week- home. Maybe tweaking a few things on each list and picking a different day for the little tasks that need to be done every week. I hope that as life continues I will be able to modify this system to fit my needs. Including making cards for my kids so they can get in on the household chores too.
Cleaning Zones

Bathroom- Week 1

Clean tub

Wipe off sink

Clean toilet

Trade out Magazines
Clean Mirrors

Bathroom- Week 2

Wash towels & bath mat

Wipe off sink

Sweep & Mop floor

Empty trash

Clean out toothbrush holder

Bathroom- Quarterly

Organize all bins etc.

Wipe all storage surfaces and cabinets

Clean shower curtain

Clean Haley’s toys

Bedrooms- Week 1

Wash sheets- including crib & changing table

Stock changing table

Bedrooms- Week 2

Pick up all trash and return things to their place

Straighten book cases etc.

Sweep floors

Bedrooms- Quarterly

Get rid of old clothes and jewelry

Switch out Haley’s clothes and toys if needed

Dust off all surfaces such as nightstands and dresser tops and lamps

Wash blankets & Duvet Covers

Mop floors

Office & Living room- Week 1

Sweep

Prepare birthday cards & gifts (wedding, baby etc.) for the month

Straighten closets

Office & Living room- Week 2

Dust book shelves, TV, mantel etc.

Sort and file all papers

Clean off desk

Organize all craft supplies

Office & Living room- Quarterly A

Wash blankets

Clean out and organize closets

Clean all light switches, door handles etc.

Office & Living room- Quarterly B

Mop floors

Clean under furniture

Vacuum furniture & under cushions

Kitchen- Week 1

Clean microwave

Clean stove catchers

Wash dishrags, bibs & napkins

Kitchen- Week 2

Sweep and Mop floors

Clean off table and find places for boxes etc. that have collected

Kitchen- Quarterly

Sweep out Under Fridge

Wipe down oven

Wipe down table and chairs

Clean out all cabinets & drawers

Clean out and stock pantry and fridge

Morning Routine

Make bed

Unload dishwasher

Open blinds

Put on work out clothes

Drink a glass of water

Before Bed Routine

Pick up toys

Do dishes

Clean sink & counters
Read Bible
Take Vitamins

Monday Routine

Fluff couch pillows

Throw out leftovers & food that will expire this week

Take out trash and recycling

Put away all laundry, books, & toys

Pay bills return mail etc.
(I'm linking to Works for me Wednesday)
What cleaning system works for your family? What little chores am I leaving off my list? How would you modify this for your family?

Friday Favorites- January

2011-01-14T20:24:00.000-05:00

Establish Routines @ simple mom

Frugal Family Fun @ Simple Kids

Snowman Building Kit @ Simple Kids

What every organized household should have @ how does she

Raising Self-Reliant kids by Michele Borb

How to become a more intentional parent @ sorta crunchy

31 days to a better photo @ life with my 3 boybarians

healing @ weird-bird

ideas to keep your kids entertained during the winter @ I never grew up

5 ways to lose your stuff @ Zen habits

Building the Legacy your children will remember @ steady mom

Play vs. Academics @ Not just cute

Decisions- Decisions @ weird bird

Everyday ways to foster independence in kids @ Simple Mom

Back to Blogging!

2011-01-13T14:16:00.005-05:00

So, It's been a while and I could try to catch you all up on everything that has been happening in the last 5 months, but that would be exhausting. So instead, here are some of my favorite photo worthy events from the past week.

When we got back to work this week Haley got 3 new books, some skates, and her first softball glove and ball. It's huge on her little hand, but she didn't seem to mind.

Her little skates fit over her boots. It was fun to watch her walk around in them. She doesn't really get that they can roll. But she does love having them on. As soon as her daddy took them off she brought them to me to but them back on her.

She loved her captive audience.

Haley loves to clean things. She will use rags, bibs, tissues, washcloths, anything she can get her hands on. She's very possessive of her cleaning tools. She loves using the broom and dust pan too.

Wiping things down.

Naked time!

Snuggling with Tristan

She loved his big hugs!

Playing in the swing her great grandpa made her.

She was having a blast!

Flying with all 4 wings on and a pretty tutu. This kid loves to play dress up.

She got all bundled up to go out in the snow. Her grandma made this snowsuit for her daddy and uncles. It's a little snug but I was glad that it still fits. Haley didn't really go anywhere while she was wearing it. She just stuck her fist in the snow and started eating.

I think she liked what she tasted.

We're back....

2011-01-10T00:07:00.003-05:00

Anybody out there?

We're back, maybe not in full force, but you can probably expect an update or 2 a week.

I know I have been away for a while, but I will try to start updating more frequently for anyone who is still reading. I'm sorry for the time away but between frisbee season, the holidays, work, and being sick with baby number 2 I haven't been in much of a blogging mood.

Next time we are off work should mark our second full week in our home since we moved in in August. We were almost home together one other week, but a root grew through the pipes while we were gone and we stayed at a friends until we got water back, hopefully our next week home will be a bit more successful.

In other news haley is getting very big. If the snow doesn't cancel her doctors appointment tomorrow I will hopefully be able to share her official height and weight, but for now I will suffice it to say that I weeded through her clothes today to pack away her 12 month clothes and find the wintery selection of 24 month and 2T clothes. There were more pants and long sleeved shirts than I remembered, and we acquired more hand me downs today including some good snow clothes, perfect timing for the little storm that is expected over night. If appointments are canceled tomorrow than the snow can expect to be balled up and turned into a nice little person tomorrow. Snow angels will also be a definite must. :)

2 cute Haley habits from the last few months...

Haley loves books right now and will brig them to us, and then sit in our laps while we read the same story over and over. But I'll talk about this more later.

Haley likes to get little pieces of toilet paper, lift her shirt, and wipe off her belly button. Hey, you can't blame a kid for trying :)

Friday Favorites- December

2010-12-31T13:23:00.001-05:00

how to take an adorable holiday photo at any age @ baby center

De-cluttering and organizing children's toys @ Blissfully domestic

35 gifts your children will never forget @ becoming minimalist

Appliques for beginners @ lemon tree creations

101 things that can physically be reduced in your home

A guide to creating a minimalist home @ zen family

Newborn dress turned toddler apron @ 2 little hooligans

Curing the December Gimmes

Motherhood and Identity @ Inspired to Action

First Birthday Party

2010-09-20T09:29:00.009-04:00

I had a hard time deciding on a theme for Haley's Birthday Party! I figured that I will get to throw many birthday parties in my lifetime. But this is the first one, so I wanted to make it extra special. I wanted the party to focus on something that Haley likes, I looked for ideas online, and I finally settled on an idea. Bedtime stories. Haley loves books, and it would be easy to make play centers that go with different books.

Each play station had a book to go with it.

Instruments- Olivia forms a band

Swinging and flying- Guess how much I love you

Blowing Bubbles- The Rainbow Fish

Blocks- Brown Bear, Brown Bear What do You See?

Balls- What's Wrong Little Pookie?

Dress-Up- Fancy Nancy

Food- The Very Hungry Caterpillar

I had a lot of fun drawing the pictures on the poster boards and coloring them with markers. Most of them I did free hand but Fancy Nancy was a little to complex. (For that one I copied the picture a little bigger, used a window to trace the outline in reverse with a pencil, than colored over the lines to transfer the graphite to the poster.)

We had a grown up food table and a kid table. The grown up food included blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, grapes, spinich, tomato, mozerella skewers, and soda. (Even though this was the grown up table I got Haley the berries because they're her favorites)

For the kids table I put cheerios and crackers in little containers for each kid to take home. With a spoon and fork set and a mozerella string cheese stick. We also had juice for sippy cups.

My mom ran to the store to pick up 2 cakes. I had a friend who was going to make haley's cake but life happens and time runs out. But these were pretty cute anyways. My mom wanted the little cake to be Haley's smash cake, but it was way too big for one little baby.

My mom also had my cousin Sarah make tutus for all of the girls at the party. They turned out super cute. Fancy Nancy would have been impressed! The 2 big brothers who came both got cowboy vests and hats.

Haley had fun at her party. She spent a lot of time playing with her Daddy. She loved the ladybug themed instrument that John picked out for her. And, luckily she had her uncles there to remember that even birthday gils get stinky diapers.

Several of Haley's friends came to join in the festivities. there were four 2 year olds, one 1 year old, and two more under 1. plus two little boys, 4 and 6. These are all of Haley's best buddies.

The boys were not shy, they had fun playing dress-up too!

Even some of the Adults got in on the action.

I think one of my favorite parts was walking around and seeing all of the parents reading to their little ones.

When it was time for Cake Haley had no problems digging in to her gigantic piece. This girl knows the good stuff when she sees it.

The little girls in their tutu's were beyond adorable.

They had fun playing with all the toys and each other.

The snack bowl made it easy for each little one to eat when they got hungry.

The swimming pool turned ball pit was a big success. Even the big boys liked it because they could run and jump in.

All in all I would say Haley's Birthday was a wonderful day. I am so thankful for all of the people who came out and made it so special.

And I'm thankful that my little one already has so many sweet friends.

Haley's going to be a Big Sister!

2010-09-07T10:49:00.003-04:00

So I think by this point everyone who reads my blog knows that I'm pregnant. But here is an official announcement.

The new baby is due around April 20th. We found out the day before Haley's first birthday. We told Haley that night. She didn't really understand but she did like playing with the pregnancy test we showed her.

Since we got to make the announcement last time we decided to let Haley tell most of the family the good news. Since she can't talk yet I made her a shirt announcing her status as a big sister in training. The 11 is for 2011 when the new baby will be born. It was nice that the focus could be on Haley with this announcement instead of on me.

I'm sure that with the new baby's arrival Haley will become a complete Daddy's girl. She is already well on her way thanks to the pregnancy hormones that knock me out and require me to take 2 naps a day. I am blessed to have such a wonderful, understanding, and patient husband who lets me get the rest I need. Who knew growing a pinto bean sized human could be such exhausting work.

Friday Favorites- August

2010-09-03T15:55:00.000-04:00

Far apart, close at heart- the creative mama

project organize @ sherbert blossom

camp wanna-laffa-lotta @ life as mom (this whole series is great, there were fun ideas last summer too if you look at the archives.

It's August- Why don't you... @ Mother Huddle

Stress is a choice @ simple mom

painters tape is the new duct tape

Birthday- Take 1

2010-08-25T10:03:00.000-04:00

While we were at the beach we celebrated Haley's birthday for the first time. The first of 4 celebrations.

Why 4 celebrations? The first was with Zachs family; since we saw them at the beach 3 days before Haley's birthday we figured we would celebrate there instead of people traveling to the mountians for her actual brthday. The second celebration was her birthday party, where her friends came as well as my mom. Part 3 was on her actual birthday. We were at work but some of our kids were gone so we had ice cream and saved the cake for celebration number 4, which occured after the rest of the boys got home.

Our beach celebration was small, just some cake and opening presents. Haley had a mini-cake to destroy. A chocolate cupcake covered in berries. I think she likes this birthday business.

The Beach- A Photo Story

2010-08-20T16:31:00.010-04:00

2 weeks ago we went to the beach with Haley's grandpa. Her 2 uncles, great aunt and uncle, grandma, and British grandpa also joined in the fun. It was a great week :)

Haley got an early birthday present. We turned her car seat around and let her ride to the beach like a big girl.

When we arrived we went straight to the sand to play.

Haley was happy to see her grandpa! (aka papa, aka OPA!)

She was much less timid about the waves this time around.

After playing in the sand we stripped her down and hosed her off. She was a bit unsure of the hose.

Haley spent a lot of time on the stairs and she learned to turn around and go down feet first.

Grapes, seashells, and the ocean!

I love the sweat bubbles on her nose. Irresistible!

New beach toys. Another early birthday gift.

Crazy and protective Uncles, you gotta love 'em.

I love this kid! She has the best expressions ever and she now does fish face on command.

While we were there Haley learned a new trick. I gave her a bite of my cereal, she looked at me and signed "more". Someone has been paying attention.

Playing in the waves with uncle Josh.

More playtime with the uncles. We followed her as she crawled up the beach along the edge of the waves. It was a blast to watch her entertain groups of people watching the ocean from their lawn chairs.

Sweet shades!

Polka dot girls

Little Swim suites out to dry.

I love how she folds up her legs when the waves come in.

Always the entertainer.

Yellow polka dots courtesy of my mama.

An adventure with the grandparents.

All snuggled after getting wet.

My Fresca!

Bocci at the beach.

Giggling at Grabby

Playing in the sunset and "I want my momma"

Discovering the bocci balls. She was very disappointed that they were not easy to pick up.

This girl loves the sand.

Our little Family

Happy Birthday Baby

2010-08-11T23:56:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday Haley Kate!

Here is a preview of Haley's big Birthday party. There are lots of Birthday and beach pictures to come' when I have a chance to upload, sort, and edit them all. Work, three birthday celebrations, a beach trip, and a move have put me a little behind again.

And, we still have one cake left to eat when the rest of our boys get home from their retreat. I think this baby's first birthday week has been well celebrated. Our waistlines will all agree!

Mommy and Me Monday: Slip 'n' slide

2010-08-09T12:46:00.005-04:00

Here are 2 recent pictures of haley and I.

The first is not a great photo but it's from a wonderful day. Our bums are both very wet from going down the giant slip 'n' slide they set up at work. It's over 100 feet of tarp stretching down a fairly steep hill. I took one of my kids to a meeting and returned just as they were finishing up. Since the slide had pretty much cleared off I got to take Haley down the lower half 3 times. The first time we ended up going a little too slow and it was more of a scooting trip. But the next 2 times Haley had a big smile on her face as she sped down the hill. It is definitely something she'll want to do again.

The second is from dinner with Zach and my mom. After an afternoon of packing boxes we went out for a nice meal. Haley was very cheerful and we enjoyed laughing together over noting in particular. She is delightful.

Hosted by Krystyn at Really, Are You Serious?