The Marvelous Maravilla's

2009 family pictures

2009-12-11T20:55:00.000-08:00

Any one out there still read this thing? If you do, you get a first peek at our family photo.

big words

2009-10-19T22:05:00.000-07:00

Abel is starting to use big words. Today he said that something was "annoying" for the first time. And he used it in the right context.

We had a FHE on self reliance yesterday which tied into Abel learning to zip up his coat (and Afton tying her shoes). In the car today, Abel said "I'm going to be self reliance and do my own bottom buckle!"

When something he is looking for cannot be found he says, "_____ it lost and no where to be found!"

After play dates he says "I was on my best behavior Mom" which I verify with the mom on duty. Today it was true!

I'm still glad that he hangs onto a few baby words like "grasspopper" and "Holly Wonka " (for willy wonka)

Daisy is 7 months

2009-10-08T18:58:00.000-07:00

It is a good thing I got this picture of Daisy on her 7 month birthday...

...because it was the only one of her being still!

Latest Highlights:
*first tooth
*says "ma ma ma ma"
*loves to roll
*does a cute head shake trick

Update Post on Afton

2009-09-29T21:49:00.000-07:00

I'm still a bit sad sending Afton off to school every day. But she loves it. The recesses, lunch, special classes and FRIENDS. But she didn't complain much when I offered here a hookey day last Friday. She is super into picking her outfit out now.

Afton loves to play with Daisy. She never gets tired of it. She is a second mommy. (Abel must have snapped this photo on a camera heist)

Afton is super into music right now. The first thing she asks me to do in the morning and after school is to listen to her music. She's doing great at the piano...teaching herself a lot of things since her teacher is a bit of a slacker these days. She loves soccer and ballet right now. She is never far from a book.

Afton is such a joy. She is a happy helper (with a tiny bit of whine to keep it real) and a sweet, sweet girl. She still loves to cuddle up with me and have me read to her. She still needs a tuck in at night.

Update Post on Abel

2009-09-29T21:44:00.000-07:00

Abel is so entertaining to spend my days with. He tells great stories...which usually end with him flying. He loves going to preschool and tells me about everything when I pick him up.

He loves playing his new recorder (he and Afton both got one over the weekend during a Mommy spoiling trip). He loves reading books. He loves Curious George right now...hopefully he won't extend his already vast curiosity too much!

Abel is becoming more patient. He put together this scarecrow at preschool almost all by himself. He couldn't care less about coloring though! He is trying so hard to be good...but sometimes the feisty just cannot be stopped.

Abel is so awesome. I love my busy boy!

Update Post on Daisy

2009-09-29T21:37:00.000-07:00

Daisy does not enjoy riding in the bike trailer. She is starting to tolerate it a bit more.

I just took this picture this morning and I love it.

Daisy is eating a little bit of cereal now. She spits most of it up though. So I don't really consider it eating. She likes to play with spoons a lot!

Aunt Christy sent this adorable dress just in time for our Fall weather. You can't see it but there is a cute squirrel in the corner.

Daisy's first tooth broke through today. Which explains a lot! Daisy is almost 7 months and is heading into that net baby phase of sitting up, copying sounds and noticing when people are strangers.

Daisy is so sweet and happy and fun!

Caught

2009-09-11T06:14:00.000-07:00

This face can only mean one thing...

trouble!

Photos of the Week

2009-09-03T21:07:00.000-07:00

Afton cannot wait to be a rock star.

Daisy is the best sleeping baby. Have I mentioned that she sleeps from 6pm-7am every night!

Abel is REALLY into socks right now.

Abel bonding with Daisy.

The two silly heads look a lot like each other upside down!

Daisy recognizes who people are now. She loves Daddy.

Buddies

2009-08-26T21:38:00.000-07:00

This is Jameson and Abel. Buddies and tag team trouble makers. This is them right after finding a sand puddle.

This is Berlin and Afton being vets.

Jameson and Abel in a moment of non trouble.

And hey look...Mom has buddies too. CPB widows on our first girls get together.

Back to school

2009-08-20T07:13:00.000-07:00

Afton's backpack surprise. Must train early to beat Grandpa at Scrabble.

The new big girl back pack. Afton deliberated over back packs for 30 minutes!

Afton said her first day was "awesome!" In her journal she wrote, "Today was the best day of my life!" Three recesses is where it's at

And here are Abel and Daisy bonding. ahhh...

Darling Daisy

2009-08-13T19:45:00.000-07:00

Daisy is adored everywhere we go. She lures people in with her happy brown eyes then keeps them occupied with big smiles, kicking feet and wet bubbles. If she senses someone about to leave; she will pull out a trick like putting her chubby foot in her mouth or verbalizing a few syllables baby talk. I will not be surprised if "You are so cute!" is Daisy's first phrase because she hears it so often.

And, darn it, it's the truth!

It's been a while

2009-08-10T21:04:00.000-07:00

Updating the family blog has taken a serious back seat to summer fun. Since summer is winding down for use, with school starting in just 8 days, I thought it was time to pick up with the regular posts...so if anyone is still checking, this is for you!

We had a blast traveling to and through 7 states in June and July visiting the grandparents, great grandparents, aunts, uncles, first second and third cousin and friends.

Daisy was a great traveler. Abel and Afton were happy as long as treats and movies kept coming!

Here is Daisy wearing our "heirloom" dress that Patrick's aunt made when Afton was a baby. I love this dress and squeeze the girls into it for as long as I can.

Daisy is 5 months now. I know, holy smokes, how did that happen?! She is super vocal, loves to blow bubbles, rolls over both ways and loves to play with anyone.

Afton is so excited to start first grade. She can't wait to wear her new backpack and pick out her outfit! She is the best big sister in the world. Afton is definitely Daisy's favorite person!

Abel is usually in constant motion. He still loves Buzz Lightyear and has different names for all of his Buzzes even though a few of them are identical...he can tell them apart!

Patrick is BUSY! Big news there! He was promoted a few weeks ago to an assistant creative director which means...more work! Luckily, he has hardly had to travel lately. A huge improvement from last summer!

And I promise to be a better blogger again.

Daisy's Baby Blessing

2009-06-15T20:41:00.000-07:00

My Dad, Patrick and Tom: the blessing crew

Our family

Our family + nana and papa

Sweet Daisy in her blessing dress

Snapshots of the Kiddos

2009-06-04T06:59:00.001-07:00

Our week in pictures

2009-05-24T21:15:00.001-07:00

Afton graduates from Kindergerten!

Abel is happiest outside where crazy is acceptable. He has been writing "w" on every piece of paper he comes across this week. Home preschool works!

Daisy loves hanging out on the blanket outside. She is always happy; except when it's time for bed because I'm not nursing her to la la land anymore.

I haven't had a picture of me and Daisy for weeks. I recruited Afton to take some shots today, but Daisy was not in the mood.

Patrick has been insanely busy again. This is what he looks like when he is home: kids attached at all times.

I love my kids!

2009-05-10T15:52:00.000-07:00

I'm spending my Mother's Day...
eating the Milka bar Patrick had someone from work bring back from Germany this week, watching my kids play rough and laugh/cry at me every 5 minutes when it gets a bit too rough, getting, giggling at my exotic Mother's Day card (see previous post), wishing Patrick wasn't at work, deciding to purchase a good pair of jeans while I'm sizing down, and cuddling Daisy when she sleeps instead of putting her in her bed right away.

my mothers day card

2009-05-10T15:48:00.001-07:00

Did anyone else get a card like this for Mother's Day?

I can't choose whether this card or my Mothers Day phone call from a woman in Bangalore- she read a message from Patrick- made me laugh more.

I'm so glad that Patrick knows I need to laugh.

finally an update!

2009-05-08T11:51:00.000-07:00

afton: 2 weeks left of school, back to short hair (hooray!), soccer super star

abel: tried to look for his babysitter at 6 am (yep he walked out the door), curious all the time, knows all his letter sounds and is starting to put together small words, has awesome hair

daisy: 2 months, 11 pounds, super smiley, sleeps 6-7 hours at night

liz: happy, overwhlemed at times, laundress, producing cucakes/cakes regularly

patrick: busy, ready for vacation, getting daily body compliments from all that bike commuting and running (liz is jealous of the running...her 70 year old knee is annoying)

Family Photo Shoot

2009-04-05T12:34:00.000-07:00

My whole family smiling their happy smiles makes me so happy. Daisy is excused for now.

This is one totally going on the family wall.

Now we are six

2009-04-01T18:59:00.000-07:00

Afton started off her sixth birthday with a trip to the store to get donuts and flowers.

She loved the super hero girl tee, and a new Webkinz from Grandma.

And money in an envelope always gets a great reaction!

Mom and Dad surprised her with a two wheel scooter, something she has been saving her money for! What is she gonna do with all that money now?

Lunch at Red Robin with the whole family! Afton lucked out having Grandma in town for her birthday.

The very yummy chocolate peanut butter cake!

Afton approved!

Happy Birthday Afton! You are our super girl and we love all six years of you!

So what...

2009-03-24T17:45:00.000-07:00

So cute, so crazy, so 3!

So big, so happy for spring, so ready to be 6.

So much a girl, so great a dad, so awesome a superhero!

So surprised, so beautiful, so on a sleep schedule!

Spring park day

2009-03-20T12:13:00.000-07:00

It's been a long time since I've gotten a shot of both kids looking and smiling.

Afton is overcoming her fear of falling off the monkey bars. I wish I could say the same for my fears for her.

Solo Success

2009-03-16T20:08:00.001-07:00

Today was my first day on my own with three kiddos. Although we missed Patrick, it was nice to get back on a bit of a schedule. Abel and I had preschool time, Afton got her piano lesson, a load of laundry got folded and the dishwasher unloaded/loaded. And I even made Afton a hair clip to go with her green outfit for tomorrow.

And I did it all with no nap (unless nap in a can counts)!

The best part of the day....the arrival of the baby girl box from Aunt Christy. Now Daisy can stop wearing unisex colors and begin embracing pink!

Daisy's first daisy

2009-03-14T16:19:00.000-07:00

With a name like Daisy, you better believe this little girl is going to have lots of themed clothing. My friend Barb made Daisy these sweet daisy headbands (currently the only little girl items in my possession...hurry up box!)

Daisy Day Three

2009-03-12T18:42:00.000-07:00

We are all happily adjusting to the sweet addition of Daisy to our family. Afton could hold her all day, Abel stops running every few hours to pat her on the head. Having Patrick at home has been soooooo nice. I'm already weepy for when he has to go back to work next week.

Daisy Elizabeth

2009-03-09T14:43:00.000-07:00

born Sunday morning, 6:59 am

a very happy big sister

Abel thinks the hospital bed may be more fun than a baby.

Girls take the majority at the Maravilla house.

6 lbs 15 oz, 19.75 in...our smallest baby by a pound.
lots of dark black hair and the eyes are still a mystery.

When Nana Comes to Town

2009-03-04T20:49:00.000-08:00

I forgot to import these great photos of my Mom's visit. She helped me so much. I highly recommend having help come before birth when the energy and ability to complete normal household routines just isn't there.

My kids love having Nana come to help them break rules (candy!!)...

Afton loved having Nana close at hand to get attention from. Losing teeth, crossing the monkey bars, attending her Valentine school party, giving a talk at church...lots of attention getting activities for Nana to participate in.

And Abel loves when Nana plays crazy with him.

Exactly how I feel

2009-03-04T20:47:00.000-08:00

Date night picture

2009-02-24T18:51:00.000-08:00

Patrick took me on a surprise dinner date for my birthday. We ate at a yummy restaurant in our little town that we have wanted to try for a year, called Sugar Beet. I loved surprises especially ones revolving around tasty food that doesn't get produced in my own kitchen. Chili lime tempura shrimp, ginger ahi tuna with tempura yams, super duper yummy!

And thanks to my Mom, the babysitting was free and didn't need a ride home! Thank you Mom!

Abel's birthday party

2009-02-24T18:45:00.000-08:00

Abel had a race car birthday party...his first party since the adult mandated one year old celebration. He was excited to have some buddies over to zoom cars with...and he thought the idea of more present was pretty neat too.

We zoomed cars around Abe's new road rug, colored wooden cars and had a race, decorated cookies and ate cookies. But I think the kids liked watching Cars best of all. I sure liked how still they were for this part of the party!!

3 teeth in 8 days

2009-02-24T18:39:00.000-08:00

Afton was excited to take a self portrait of the newest hole in her smile. I think I uploaded over 30 of them! Afton is quickly realizing that losing teeth is more profitable than doing chores. And she's pretty motivated to save for a two wheel scooter like the big kids at school!

I thought we were in the clear for loose teeth for a few months...not so Afton found another loosey on the bottom row yesterday!

little dreams

2009-02-23T12:51:00.001-08:00

One of my little dreams came true on my birthday. Afton and Abel secretly made me loads of birthday cards. Each time a new one was produced, the kids would find me in the house and sing Happy Birthday and give me big hugs. Better than any present for sure!!

Afton the Toothless Wonder

2009-02-19T08:28:00.000-08:00

2 teeth in 2 days.

Abels Turns 3!!

2009-02-19T08:22:00.000-08:00

Abel was spoiled rotten by his parents, sister and nana on his birthday. I think he is going through chocolate withdraw now. He loves his new big boy scooter, his road rug and new toys that go.

Spring Snow Play

2009-01-30T14:28:00.000-08:00

One of the positive things about not having any direct sunlight on our yard during the winter months, is the snow sticks around until it's warm enough to play in. The kiddos are having a blast playing in the snow in their t-shirts, without runny noses!

Back to Winter

2009-01-26T07:03:00.001-08:00

I'm looking out my living room window at a serious snowstorm right now, really missing our lovely faux Spring weather of a few days ago.

Me and my sinus infection have decided to let Afton play hookey today. Too snowy and too cold and never any snow days around here. So we are making our own. While we lounge in jammies, watch too much TV and eat chocolaty chocolate cookies, we'll dream about spring coming again.

Bext Boxes Ever

2009-01-15T17:46:00.000-08:00

The boxes the chairs were delivered in were the best boxes ever. I was so sad to have to knock them down and recycle them the same day (and by I of course I mean Patrick while I watched...being hugely pregnant pays off at times). But the kiddies did enjoy several hours of house box play time. Oh for the day when I have a basement!

New Chairs!!

2009-01-14T21:00:00.000-08:00

Meet our new dining room chairs. I'm so in love with them. And think they look mighty nice with my paint color.

Weekend Update

2009-01-11T16:25:00.001-08:00

Patrick ended up working most of the weekend, which means the kids got lots of time with their toys. Afton and Abel love their dress ups, in fact last weekend Patrick built them a dress-up station in their room, and in this shot Afton was a magic fairy and Abel was a not so nice fairy trying to stop her magic. It's so funny to hear Afton cast spells that are realistic and still magical; "Clouds in the sky, go by!" or she'll flick her wand and say "Mom now your shirt is a darker green then before."

Afton has been spending lots of time on her art since Santa delivered the easel. She loves to practice writing in cursive, making self portraits, and this weekend drew all her favorite fruits and vegetables.
Abel got a nice belly shot of me today. I feel much bigger than I look! I'm definitely running out of things to wear though. These tees from Target (not maternity even) have been the best!

Ice Cream Sundaes

2009-01-07T15:30:00.000-08:00

Afton decided that one of her New Year Goals was to learn to make ice cream sundaes. So right after the goal planning session of FHE, we helped one of her goals happen.

Abel (in his preferred outfit) was just as excited to partake of Sunday's sundae goodness.

10 weeks to go

2009-01-02T06:24:00.000-08:00

My age and my pregnancy progress are the same today! I really, really should start prepping for this baby...bunk beds, making a diapering choice (is it realistic to start in with cloth diapering on baby #3?), pulling out onesies and blankets and nightgowns...

Oh well. At least Patrick and I have chosen names for this baby. And we're having fun keeping it a secret.

family pictures

2008-12-28T11:48:00.000-08:00

We had family pictures taken a week or two ago. We haven't done this for a year, so it makes me happy to have updated photos of my sweet family.

And now my family, along with the rest of the Maravilla family, are heading up into the mountains to vacation together for the week. I'm secretly glad my snow pants don't fit this year so I can pamper myself with magazines, hot cocoa and lounging!

Merry Christmas from the Maravillas

2008-12-24T06:32:00.000-08:00

Patrick is back home! And we're ready to do a little celebrating with out own family this week and with the whole Maravilla clan up in the Rocky Mountains next week. Merry Christmas!

2008-12-22T18:32:00.000-08:00

Wow it has been busy at the Maravilla house.

I haven't spent a night not sewing, making or baking something in weeks. I've had fun making gifts this year though and using up my stashes of fabric. I'm feeling pretty pregnant these days, with 12 weeks to go I guess I am!

Patrick has been put in charge of a few things at work...or more in charge than normal. He had a couple easy days last week, and now he is in NYC for a few days working on commercials that will hopefully air this time around!

Afton is thrilled to be on vacation from school. I don't know if I should feel sad that she is already anticipating breaks from school or happy that she loves to be at home. At least when she is at home she is either reading a book, making an art creation or playing with Abel.

Abel is getting to be a good helper. He is always saying "Don't Worry Mom, I'll take care of that." He is very excited for Santa to come, for Daddy to come home and stay home and to go on vacation with Grandpa and Grandma.

I'd post a photo or two, but we sold our iMac right before Patrick left to go out of town and I don't have all my programs up and running on the laptop.

Chocolate Chip Waffles

2008-12-09T12:57:00.000-08:00

Patrick makes the best chocolate chip waffles. I think it is Abel's favorite breakfast.

The Nutcracker

2008-12-09T12:43:00.000-08:00

Afton and I went to the Nutcracker on Saturday night. She had so much fun getting dressed up for the show.

She loved the dancing (once she got that it was going to keep on going), the silly Drosselmeyer and the the Sugar Plum Fairy. I spoiled her with a sparkly tiara from the gift shop, a Nutcracker ornament for our tree and cookies from the bake sale.

I was pretty impressed with the Boulder Ballet. Beautiful dancing, costumes and effects. Much cooler than the local production I grew up attending/dancing in!

Buzz and a turkey

2008-12-04T15:22:00.001-08:00

Afton had to disguise a turkey for school. She came up with the hula dancer idea on her own. I loved this project and think we'll make it a November tradition. It was funny to check out the other turkey's in the classroom and see turkeys dressed like ninjas, Wall-E, darth vader, etc.

Abel LOVES and LIVES for Buzz Lightyear. His sweet cousin, Kaleb, gave him one of the small Buzz guys over the summer and we accidentally brought home his twin last week! His favorite activity is to have me turn on the Buzz Lightyear Song and act it out with the small flying Buzz. Buzz stands on the couch while Abel puts on a very sad expression and when the part comes when the movie Buzz jumps down the stairs to fly, Abel throws Buzz across the room the falls on the floor himself. After the song ends, he explains to me that Buzz is so sad because he cannot fly.

Abel is asking Santa Claus for a Buzz Lightyear costume for Christmas. Hopefully he will stop randomly pooing in his undies so Santa can bring it to him!

more snow!

2008-12-04T15:17:00.000-08:00

Afton's favorite snow activity is to shovel the sidewalk. Today she didn't even bother to put her backpack done before she started shoveling!

Abel likes the snow this year!! He loves getting his gear on, especially his boots, and stomping around in the deep snow.

Belly

2008-12-03T06:56:00.001-08:00

I meant to post a belly photo at 6 months. I'm somewhere in the middle of 6 months now and here it is. I really like my rounding belly. It still fits into lots of regular shirts and hasn't affected my backside too much this time around. I'm even comfortable posting a picture of myself in my "comfy pants!"

This baby is getting big. I can feel it's movements getting more forceful, less polite. He/She must be up to 2 lbs by now!

Yesterday, Abel and I were talking about my belly. He first said he wanted a sister then quickly changed his mind to various Dora characters, settling and Dora and Boots. Afton is firm on the sister wagon. Very, very firm.

Thanksgiving Snowe

2008-12-01T21:00:00.000-08:00

Afton and Abel were excited to arrive home to much more snow than in the yards of their cousins, who live just 90 miles south of us. Patrick grabbed all the snow gear from the garage (it's not attached to out home so I always appreciate his garage errands) and after lunch today the kids hit the snow.

The kiddos were not very thankful for Thanksgiving food. Abel tried the turkey and dissected his roll; while Afton filled up on pomegranate seeds, ice cream and lemonade.

We're all happy to be back at home, surrounded by our own food and our new snow.

It's getting real

2008-11-19T20:43:00.000-08:00

So far with this pregnancy, I've been able to politely ignore the reality that another baby will join the family eventually. I love the swimming baby inside, it's in the very kind movement stage where it all feels cute and fun. I feel great, comfortable and cute still. And really March is far, far away.

Then I peeked in at the blog and saw the counter tell me I was going to have a baby in 16 weeks and 2 days (which, of course, means 17-18 weeks). Wow. That's soonish.

The New/Old Green Chair

2008-11-18T16:42:00.001-08:00

Afton had a birthday party on Saturday, and somehow, Abel and I managed to hit 3 thrift stores during her party time. I was looking for a Woody doll for Able for xmas. No luck there. But I hit the thrift jackpot at out last stop.

This awesome green velvet chair, circa 1950 or so, came home with us for only $18!!! It matches my color scheme, provides another sitting option, and will be the nursing chair in a few months. Right now, Afton has claimed it as her reading chair and Able likes to see how many insane tricks he can get in before I remove him. Favorite feature: it reclines.

Patrick has already devised a new layout for out living room and dining area, which I'm in love with. Now I have space for all my crafting supplies (okay most of them) in the new storage console in the dining room (previously the TV storage stand, previous to that a dresser).

I'm on a bargain high! And I get $5 back at Target because Kung Fu Panda went on sale this week!!! I'm freaking out with savings joy!

Park Accomplishments

2008-11-14T16:41:00.000-08:00

This week both Afton and Abel made big accomplishments at the park.

Abel learned how to climb up the Rocket Ladder and go down the super swirly slide (pictured below with Afton as the model)!!

And Afton finally made it across the monkey bars all by herself (mean Mom stopped helping her 2 weeks ago)!!

But the camera was at home, staying warm, during these exciting moments. So retro park photos will have to do. And there's nothing cuter than babies swings anyway.

Is that Barack Obama?

2008-11-04T16:03:00.001-08:00

I took the kids to vote with me today. When I was in the booth filling out the ballot, Abel kept asking "Is that guy Barack Obama?" anytime a man would walk past. Dead silence except for my little politically active guy plugging our family candidate!!

Howdy Halloween

2008-11-04T15:59:00.000-08:00

I'm so glad Halloween is over. 4 parties, almost 300 cupcakes to cater and lots of late nights.

I did have a blast making the kid's costumes and am happy they got to wear them a lot! Abel was Woody from Toy Story complete with a pull string (which I never took a picture of) and Afton was a sparkly version of Jessie from Toy Story.

A fall photo shoot

2008-10-29T19:05:00.000-07:00

Afton grabbed the rake from the garage yesterday and started tackling the leaves...I though to help me clean up the yard, then I though she might be making a jumping pile, no...She told Abel "I'm going to make a pile, then you sit in the middle, then Mom will take pictures of you." So I let her do the photo honors!

Abel happily participated

Here's the great pile of leaves

Then she moved on to posing pumpkins.

Double portraits!

And even Abel got a turn.

Finally, I got the camera back and got a sweet picture of my eager helper.

Fall Fun Photos

2008-10-26T20:54:00.000-07:00

Picking out pumpkins...the rule you have to carry it yourself.

A sweet, still moment on the climbing rocks.

Afton's newest photo smile.

Abel's eyes open smile!

Photos from the Week

2008-10-24T06:15:00.001-07:00

Afton and Abel love to ride on the penny horse at the grocery store. My Mom made them a penny jar so they can ride the horse as much as they want after grocery shopping.

This is how Abel likes to wear his shirts.

Afton had her second Primary Program last Sunday. She had a nice big reading part since she is a reading girl. I was bummed she was sitting on the opposite side of the chapel, but she was probably more focused not being able to see her family all the time. And I love her dress!

Nana comes for a visit!

2008-10-21T17:06:00.000-07:00

We've been spending the last week with my Mom! We took her to Pearl Street, a fun pedestrian-only area in Boulder with lots of musicians, climbing parks and a great candy store!

We went to the pumpkin patch.

Went up to Estes Park to see the golf course elk and spend some time in the mountains.

I haven't cleaned my kitchen or folded a load of clothes in 9 days. Patrick and I went on two dates! Afton and Abel have a jar of 200 pennies for riding the penny pony at the grocery store! We were all spoiled and had a super fun time with Nana in town!

Afton in K

2008-10-12T16:47:00.000-07:00

Afton is really loving kindergarten. She loves recess, writer's workshop (where she writes about what she has been learning) and all her new buddies. She loves when her turn to do the calendar comes around...and loves singing the days of the week and months of the year songs all the time.

I was a classroom volunteer last week, and enjoyed seeing her in action. Afton's teacher keeps her challenged, giving her writing worksheets when other kids are learning how to write a letter, and harder math assignments (ABC or AABB patterns instead of just AB). And Afton get to go to 1st grade once a week for reading time. I'm very happy about this and Afton is excited to get a new experience. I'm so glad she has a teacher who helps keep her challenged and working hard!

This Never Happens!

2008-10-12T16:45:00.001-07:00

The kids wanted to wait up for Patrick to get home from Germany, so I put a movie on to give them some quiet time. And 20 minutes later, this is how I found Abel. This has only happens two other times in his non-stop life! Bedtime will be a disaster, but these moments are always so sweet.

Now I have to go wake the sleeping monster.

Afton in soccer action

2008-10-05T19:07:00.000-07:00

These are for the grandparents. Notice how Afton isn't afraid of getting in there and getting the ball!

kids get the camera

2008-10-05T19:04:00.001-07:00

Patrick and I don't usually show up on blog photos. During conference, the kids took turns snapping photos. Lovely photos of me with awesome hair and Patrick getting his arm chopped off by Abel.

We had such a fun family weekend. Hanging out at home while watching conference. We were all sad to see Patrick leave for the airport this afternoon. He's in Germany for the week!

Fall Walk

2008-09-30T20:39:00.001-07:00

It's finally cool enough to go for nature walks. Buzz Lightyear had to come with Abel this time.

And Afton made good use out of her weekend thrift store find. I'm so glad she thinks it's fun to hunt treasures with me!

We found lots of leaves to use for home school projects. And just to admire.

Abel needed to get up close to nature.

Thanks!

2008-09-30T20:33:00.001-07:00

Thanks for all the happy comments on my pregnancy. Patrick and Afton have been telling the world so I thought it was about time for me to share the news with friends who cannot see my growing behind and my tiny bump.

We're excited to have another surprise baby- meaning we won't be finding out the sex again. This a a great way to drive family members bonkers! And are very interested to see who/how this baby will look like, since Afton and Abel are opposites.

I feel super, a bit tired, but that could be because the kids are taking turns waking up at 3 am. Loving the boobs, the tiny kicks and my very reasonable weight gain this time around (5 lbs!!)

And no, Patrick, I'm not taking down the baby tracker.

explanation

2008-09-28T16:52:00.000-07:00

Look to the right and you'll see what good excuse I have for not keeping my family blog more current.

Abel, the sweetest thing

2008-09-26T06:53:00.000-07:00

Abel is such a sweet boy. He is always ready to give a surprise squeeze. One of my favorites things he does is ask, "Mommy, are you happy?" or "Is Afton happy?" He is hardly demanding. Rather, he asks so sweetly if he can have a bite, a turn, or a movie to watch.
And his silly side is great. He isn't intentionally funny, but says really funny things all the time. It's just in his thought process. He'll look at me, thoughtfully, and say, "I don't like your hair." or something really random like, "Do you see my robot switch?"

Abe and I are doing a little preschool time each day. He loves doing the calendar, the computer and dancing time the best. And he loves telling people about the letter of the week. Abel is so great!

NEW PICTURES!!

2008-09-26T06:16:00.000-07:00

I'm not even sure who is still stopping by since I have done a lame job of updating this blog lately. I have a really good reason...but you'll have to stay tuned for an explanation. For now, here are some cute kids in jammies.

Abel was so silly when I took these pictures the other day. He gives these lick kisses when you are not looking. Gross but funny. He and Afton get in really good play grooves with their made up chasing and running around games. At night, they "whisper" back and forth until one of them drops. They really are best buds!

Weekend Update

2008-09-16T21:08:00.000-07:00

I know, I know...the weekend was days ago. But ours was really fun so I'm still posting about it!

Afton had her first soccer game. She's great at stealing the ball and giving serious power kicks. She loves all the running!

Luckily, Patrick came home to help me with the 3 cousins staying with us over the weekend. We went on a hike, saw some deer and pulled our hair out.

And my favorite guy is in town for at least 2 weeks!!! Hooray!

The good pizza

2008-09-10T18:08:00.000-07:00

we had the good pizza for dinner tonight. as in two medium's for $25. but the mozzarella is real and the crust unbelievable. and it's the only number i have memorized besides patrick's

why? my kitchen looked like this after a day and a night of cupcakes, giving a baby shower and teaching an enrichment class.

my favorite part of the day- pizza with my cuties. it was calm and easy and at home.

Daddy Journal: Saturday

2008-09-06T15:44:00.001-07:00

Hi Daddy! Today I got to harvest the basil. It smelled soooo good!

Abe has been practicing his balloon blowing skills.

We had fun art time coloring with markers and I made two melty crayon hearts to take to church tomorrow.

Saturday's sure are a bummer without you here to build forts with...but Mom did a good job giving us fun things to do. I love you!

Daddy Journal: Wed & Th

2008-09-04T16:28:00.000-07:00

Daddy, I didn't have school yesterday. This is how Abel and I started the morning. We laughed so hard chasing each other on the big bed!

And today I got my soccer shoes and stuff and Mommy let us take some allowance money and buy a toy. I got a Strawberry Shortcake girl with a scooter for only $2.00 (mommy loves used stores)

And Able got the really cool Buzz Lightyear! It makes noise and has rockets. And he even let me play with it!

White Water Wife

2008-09-03T07:35:00.001-07:00

Patrick says I'm lucky to have a husband after his weekend rafting trip with his Dad and brothers

.

A Great Weekend!

2008-09-03T07:29:00.000-07:00

Patrick's trip got canceled last minute last week so he got to come down to Col. Springs with us!

We went to the Hot Air Balloon Classic, which is my favorite summer event.

The kids had all kinds of fun with their cousins (Afton and Carli)

And Grandpa got to come home with us for a few hours before his flight out.

Abel's favorite part was when his cousin Kaleb gave him this Buzz Lightyear toy. It hasn't left his hands for 5 days now.

Family Pictures

2008-09-03T07:21:00.000-07:00

Obviously, I didn't get the message about silly faces!

Stake Carnival

2008-08-28T06:55:00.000-07:00

The Stake Carnival is one of my favorite summer activities. Lots of silly free fun for the kids. And last weekend it was our families ONE HOUR of together time.

Abel doing the drop-the-ball activity

Afton rockin' the balance beam

Abel was all over the basketball game!

Afton's first piano recital

2008-08-21T20:04:00.001-07:00

100% Potty Trained

2008-08-21T20:00:00.000-07:00

Not changing diapers is so nice. Not spending money on diapers is even better! Abel has been totally toilet trained for 1-2 weeks now. He digs wearing big boy undies, loved the promotion to his big boy bed and does a super job telling me when he needs to go potty at home and out of home.

He loved earning a few fun toys in the process too! Especially his baby and mama Lightening McQueen!!

No bears at school!

2008-08-20T09:33:00.000-07:00

When I picked up Afton from school yesterday, her teacher asked the grown ups to wait in the hallway instead of outside since a bear had been hanging out around the school and the neighborhoods by the school. She told us the kids were pretty shaken up about not being able to have recess because of the bear. My first thought was why on earth did the teachers tell the kids about the bear? How about, indoor recess today guys! Afton was pretty intense about the bear situation until I told her the bear police had taken the bear back to the mountain.

After that drama fizzled out, Afton told me this about school:

"I had a really heavy heart at school today because a boy was acting wild and he had to put his head down on his arms on a table."

I don't even know where she heard "heavy heart" from but I thought it was pretty funny.

First Day of School

2008-08-19T11:22:00.000-07:00

Ready to go!

All smiles after school!
Afton LOVED her first day of kindergarten!!!

Talents

2008-08-15T06:13:00.000-07:00

I have been super busy running Afton back and forth to swim and tennis lessons for the past two weeks. She was determined to hare swim lessons but ended up wishing for more. Afton is a good little fish now.

Afton is also learning to play the piano, from me, and from herself. It's the first thing she does in the morning...and goes back to the piano (keyboard) all day long.

And Afton did her first sewing project this week. I helped her make two little blankets for her doll house beds. She was nervous to use the big machine but did great.

And Abel is a great juggler. This video cracks me up.

photo shoot of kids

2008-08-05T17:33:00.001-07:00

When I was in Utah, a friend of Christy's took some awesome photos of our kids. I love how sweet and upclose they are.

Abel konked his head on the swing right before the picture!

Home Bound

2008-07-31T20:10:00.000-07:00

This is what life will be about for the next week or so.

Daddy Journal Day...who knows any more!

2008-07-31T20:06:00.000-07:00

Daddy,

Today I built this lego airplane then flew it to California to pick you up and bring you home.

And Afton made this big huge tower...and she practiced her picture face just like this.

Give me a kiss when you come home tomorrow night.

Love you, Abel

Daddy Journal Wednesday

2008-07-30T21:12:00.000-07:00

Dear Daddy,

This morning I got Abel out of his crib (I know I'm not supposed to do that but I just do.) and we played doll house quietly and let Mommy sleep. Then we got ready for the day and went to tennis, the gym and to the pool.

Mom took the camera to the pool, but only got pictures of us eating apples! Abe and I went down the big slide and Abel went under the water once and he didn't like that.

Here is me at tennis class today. Look at how high I hit the ball over the net. I used my forehand to bonk that ball! This tennis class teaches us to hit the ball forward and backward the whole time.

Mommy wishes you were here to see the pretty sunset behind the mountains. We're so excited you are coming home in two days!

Love, Afton

Daddy Journal Monday

2008-07-28T21:28:00.000-07:00

Abel practiced his airplane flying today.

I had so much fun playing outside, going to tennis class, swimming and reading 4 books!

We love you so much! Can't wait for you to come home!

Back in Business

2008-07-27T20:16:00.001-07:00

It's been so hard to kick start my motivation after 3 weeks of vacationing. And although I still have piles of shoes, luggage, and laundry in various rooms I did accomplish some great things tonight:

I prepped snacks for the next 3 days
I future posted blog entries for The Tip Spot for 4 days
I packed up the 3 bags I'll need for tennis lessons, gym time and our pool visit tomorrow.
And I have an hour left to read. (Patrick, you'll be happy to know I'm cracking open Shakespeare tonight.)

I'm freakin' amazing.

Knock Knock

2008-07-26T18:11:00.001-07:00

This is what dinner time usually looks like at our house:

Daddy Journal Saturday

2008-07-26T18:05:00.000-07:00

Dear Daddy,

I was sad to leave my cousins (and Water World) yesterday and come home. But we had a fun day playing with our toys, playing in the yard with Mom (Grandma taught me to play dodge ball so Mom and I played today...she's slow and gets hit a lot), reading books and having pizza movie night.

Abel was so happy to play with his cars today!

Mom let me choose cones and ice cream at the store today. Guess what my favorite part of the day was? That's right! Ice cream cone time!

I miss you!

Love, Afton

Daddy Journal Wednesday

2008-07-24T10:33:00.000-07:00

Daddy!

Today we are in Colorado Springs playing with our cousins. I tried to have a slumber party with Carli and Camry but I got stairs and decided to sleep with Mom. I tried M&M yogurt for snack today...yummy!!!

Abel is being very nice to Logan. They share trucks and balls and play nice with each other.

Later today we're going to see more cousins and jump on the tramp and swing.

I miss you!!

Love, Afton

Guess where

2008-07-17T13:30:00.000-07:00

Guess where I'm going tonight?

Off for a 5 day romantic fling with Patrick (who will only have to work 1 day!) to Santa Monica. Thanks so much to Grandma for loving our kiddies while we're gone.

I'm so excited to sit in the green chairs at The Viceroy. I want one!

Daddy Journal Day six/seven

2008-07-06T20:47:00.001-07:00

Hi Dad!

We had a really fun weekend! We went to the library to get books on tape for our road trip, used our library rewards and went to lunch (mom was so brave taking us alone huh?), and this morning we all painted our toenails...even Abe!

At church I learned about gratitude and so tonight when I said my prayers I said I was thankful for living in this village and this amazing house.

We did some karate moves before bed to get our wiggles out (Mom said we were wild animals today!) and made a movie for you. Tomorrow we're driving to Utah to see our cousins. Can't wait to see you in a few days Daddy! We LOVE you!!!

fireworks interview

2008-07-04T21:19:00.000-07:00

Daddy Journal Day Five

2008-07-04T21:15:00.000-07:00

Hi Daddy,

We had so much fun today on the Fourth of July. We got to eat donuts for breakfast, go swimming, and have pizza movie night.

Abel thought his root beer float was weird. But I love mine. Yum!

Then really late Mom woke me up so I could see the fireworks (isn't it so cool we can see them from our yard). I LOVED watching them all and didn't cry on bit this year! And we lit the fireworks we bought too.

Boy am I pooped!

Daddy Journal Day Four

2008-07-03T20:52:00.000-07:00

Hi Daddy!

I got new Crocs today. I picked a new blue color. I like that. Yup.

Afton got a new dress and had fun spinning around in it.

And I wanted to do it too, so Mama let me wear one of her new skirts and twirl. I liked it a lot.

I got a bad owie today. Afton was chasing me and she caught me then picked me up then dropped me from high. I was bleeding lots. It hurt. But I'm okay.

Mama can't find the big silver "memote" for the TV? Where is it Daddy?

Daddy Journal Day Three

2008-07-02T21:40:00.000-07:00

Hi Daddy,

We had lots of fun today. We did our chores then Mom let us jump on the mattress after we changed our sheets.

Abel and I loved playing with Berlin and Jamie today. I found lots of potato bugs and we got really dirty feet playing so hard.

We got to have a picnic movie night and finished watching The Spiderwick Chronicles. It was scary but cool too.

Mom's camera was out of batteries today. No pictures.

We love you!

Daddy Journal Day Two

2008-07-01T21:55:00.001-07:00

Daddy,

We went to TWO parks today, a big bike ride, to the library for story time (but we had to leave without checking out books because Abel was freaking out and Mom forgot her library card. Boo.)

It rained today, for a bit. We put on our rain boots and played outside.

And we made these videos for you!

Daddy Journal Day One

2008-06-30T10:40:00.000-07:00

Dear Daddy,

We had a GREAT day! We got to play at the gym while Mommy exercised (30 minutes on the bike baby) and spotted some rabbit poop when we were playing at the outside part.

We played pirates a lot today with minor injuries to Abel.

I made my own peg leg! Argh!!!

Abel was a fancy pirate today.

I've been begging Mommy to let me listen to "Hey hey I don't like your girlfriend" song but Mommy said there's a naughty word in it. Then Mommy got this super idea to let me buy my first song on iTunes with my chore money. So I bought the no naughty word one. Abel and I put our money together and we bought our favorite song from Cars "Real Gone." We have been rocking out all day.

We went swimming at a new splash pool today. I cant wait for you to come on the cool slide with me. Abel loved filling up his bucket in the shooting fountains.

And we had our last Family Home Evening on temples. I drew a picture of a temple with two people getting sealed. I used a ruler to make the triangle on top really good. Abe "drew" a temple too.

I'm pooped. We miss you lots!

Weekend Edition

2008-06-29T20:41:00.000-07:00

We had such a fun weekend! Mostly because Patrick was back home. We took the kids to see WALL-E. Abel included. He loved seeing his first movie and kept saying "That was cool" after each preview. He was a little bummed when the movie started and it wasn't Toy Story but the robot action caught his attentions pretty quick. He's been saying "I loved my first movie" all day today!

Afton loved the movie too, especially the short at the beginning. I won't give it away but part of the cartoon has the word "PRESTO" on it and Afton read it then said "Oh that's says presto! That means really super duper fast." Thank you Little Einsteins!

And now Patrick is off for 2 weeks making commercials. Abel is going to sink into a deep daddy depression. Luckily, we have a trip to Utah to see The Ashworth Fam is 8 days (!!!) to distract us!

Farmer Afton

2008-06-27T20:48:00.000-07:00

Afton loves to help out in the yard, probably because it's just her size! She pulls the weeds for fun, checks on our garden and flowers every day and today took over on my dead grass digging. About 10 minutes into the work she said "Mom we're farmers huh?"