Todd, Molly & Co

Christmas at the McCartys and Gavin's Birthday

2012-01-03T12:05:00.000-08:00

This is one big fun FAMILY! I never in my wildest dreams thought that Christmas could be this much fun. We celebrated Christmas with the cousins and Todd's parents and Bridgette and Gavin on December 23 since our kids were going to be at their other home on Christmas morning. We had a blast - Bridgette made a delicious pasta bolognese for dinner and a wonderful cake for Gavin's birthday. We opened gifts with each other and let the kids be wild, but when are kids not wild two days before Christmas with all their cousins, all 8 of them? They were darling and so excited!

Ava & Avarie opening presents

The cousins with Nana Phoebe

The cousins - Enzo, Dylan, Morgan, Westin, Tate, Ava, Lexie and Avarie

TM & Co

It was a great kick off to the Christmas festivities!

Love

2011-12-23T10:50:00.000-08:00

"Life is all about timing...the unreachable becomes reachable, the unavailable become available, the unattainable...attainable. Have the patience, wait it out."
-Stacy Charter

Two and a half years ago today, I reached out for help. My basket full of life had just been dumped out and I was left shocked, scared, and confused. I had no idea where to start but knew I needed someone who could understand what I was going through, give me some sage advice, and not let me wallow in my sadness. I called my dad and Kay, but just couldn't get the words out. I called my best and dearest friends, but just didn't have the courage to admit what had happened. I finally reached out to the brother of a friend. He was just a few months further along than me and I knew he would have the words of wisdom I needed, but also the tender approach I needed as I sorted it all out.

Enter Todd Fudala. He was at the time merely an acquaintance, the brother of my good friend Bridgette, and someone who was trudging through the hurt that comes when life doesn't quite work out the way you thought. I had spent countless hours on the phone with Bridgette, trying to help her understand what he was feeling, trying to help her so she could help him. I had carefully considered what calling him would mean, but felt that I needed someone who didn't know me as well, didn't know my ex as well, and would be able to give advice with less anger and resentment than any other friend or family member could give at that time. Everyone else was so mad, and so was I, but I needed action and a plan.

Todd tells a great story of logging into work that morning, and mindlessly checking his Facebook and jumping out of his chair when he saw my message telling him what had happened. He jumped up, sprang into action, and has been doing that for me and next to me, and making my heart jump, ever since.

I said "Yes" last night...Yes to a life with a partner, Yes to someone who cares for me and cares about me, Yes to someone who brushes my hair out of my face when my hands are full, when I'm crying, or when I'm just washing the dishes, Yes to loving that man in the same way that he loves me - endlessly, Yes to a step father for my children, Yes to becoming a step mother to his children, Yes to a big family of big smiles, big fun, big grocery trips, big vacations and sometimes big tears, Yes to making it work for the sake of love and a marriage and the commitment of life together.

These lyrics are from one of our favorite musicians, Keith Urban...

You know I can't read your mind my love
But it seems to me
That your heart and mine tonight are
Defying gravity
There's something so familiar
And still so unknown
The closer that we get I swear it feels like coming home
And I'm ready to be brave
Oh yea then you look at me and say baby
If ever I could love I think it could be with you
If ever I thought I found somebody so true
I wonder if you feel
The same way that I do
If ever I could love
I think it could be with you

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T13:31:00.000-08:00

These are the days that I love the contrast of my only childhood compared with the big family I have become a part of now...

The picture is of the kids after school at the kitchen table going through their Valentine bags, loving all the cards they got and trading candy. Yes, trading candy. Nope, I never did that. These kids come home and barter and trade all kinds of combinations to get that favorite candy. I brought my candy home, gave my mom the Snickers bars, gave my dad the 3 Muskateers bars and I ate a little of the rest.

This is Ava and Avarie at Ava's Valentine Party at Primrose.

I enjoyed a wonderful weekend with my Valentine and Valentines. Lucky me!!!

Winter 2011

2011-02-11T16:01:00.001-08:00

I never expected to post such broad topics but life seems to be rushing by faster and faster. I guess time flies when you're having fun!

We have enjoyed a colder than usual winter here, including a few decent snowstorms. I always smile because most people here don't like winter or winter weather and they live somewhere that they don't have to deal with much of it. I, on the other hand, still love a good cold day, a good snow, and SEASONS in general. That being said, there are a few neighbors who do give me a hard time for wishing for cold and snow and that they are ready for me to wish for something else. I added a pic of Todd's house on one snowy morning in December.

Christmas was a blast this year! We were fortunate to get to spend Christmas Eve and morning with all 5 kids. What a fun job to shop and wrap all those gifts! Todd and I did almost all of our shopping for the kids while they were away with their other parents over Thanksgiving. Todd had to travel in December and I'm pretty sure I wrapped presents for 4 days! But the sight of the tree on Christmas Eve and then Christmas morning after Santa had come was pure JOY! The children were so excited and so appreciative of all the gifts the received. Everyone stayed quiet in bed until 7:00am, even though the boys had been up since EARLY and had already scouted all the presents. We put everything together and took up the entire curb with trash, but they are still playing with all of it in February. The Lego sets Santa brought the boys have proved to be especially challenging!

Todd and I took my kids to Colorado over New Years to see their dad. We were rescheduled due to weather on the East coast and were sad that we only got a few days in Colorado instead of five because we didn't get to go over to my dad's to visit. However, Todd and I enjoyed a few days of time together and enjoyed the big city.

I try to slow down and take it all in as often as I can because the weeks just fly by. Before I know it soccer season will start and the weather will be warm again.

Fall Fun

2010-11-28T15:58:00.000-08:00

It's been a fun and busy fall in Virginia! We have enjoyed school, soccer, ballet and beautiful fall days. I am officially living with Todd and his kids while we still wait and hope that my house on Kipper Turn will sell. (Yes, that was a giant sigh you heard!) It's a busy and happy life with 5 kids one week and 2 kids the next - always an adjustment and always an adventure. The boys (Enzo 10, Westin 7, and Tate 6) played soccer this fall. We fanagled to get Westin and Tate on the same team and they did fantastic! Scored lots of goals, learned to dribble the ball and work as a team. They were both very sad when it ended. Enzo played on a more competitive level being a few years older and I think we all enjoyed the change of pace Enzo's games offered. Let's just say it's a bigger field, and there's a little more strategy involved other than trying to keep the kids spread out away from the ball. All three boys made "Todd's Honor Roll" with stellar report cards. They are Pokemon bandits and are constantly playing, trading, and training although Todd and I can't understand any of what they are talking about. We just smile and nod and know that they're having fun. They love to play outside, typical boys, and Tate learned to ride a two-wheeler finally!

I decided it was time to let Avarie have a chance to try something out too. She and Ava take ballet once a week and are too cute! I'm not quite sure how much the are learning, but they do enjoy going and we will be treated to a recital in June. They are both doing fantastic at school. They love playing make believe, puppies and kitties, coloring and legos. They are too funny and we often call them Frick n Frack, or when they're having a little hen party in the bathroom I call them Ethel and Margaret because they have this secret little language like little old ladies.

I'm still teaching preschool at Greenwood Country Day School and I am teaching the 4's class again this year. I have 18 students and they are a delight. I'm working more this year, staying through nap every day which is both a positive and negative some days. I enjoy having the time to work in my classroom and get planning done, but feel bad that Avarie can't get a good long nap in her own bed. Oh well, we are adjusting and I feel so fortunate to have a good job with great benefits in that I get to have Avarie right next door. Other than work, being a mom takes the top priority. I am still selling on eBay, walking 3 or more miles a day, cooking and baking. Todd and I love to go out and try new restaurants. We recently ate a a tiny restaurant called Mezzanine that was delicious!!! He and some guys in the neighborhood are playing in a band (he was a drummer in a successful local band a while back) and they have played at a couple parties in the neighborhood. I enjoy that they practice in Todd's basement because it's fun to have live music underneath the kitchen while you do Sunday chores.

All in all, it's been a great fall and we are anxious to head into winter - hoping for some snow like last year!

All I want for Christmas...

2010-10-12T17:21:00.000-07:00

(2nd summer post still to come. This was just too cute not to post out of order.)

Ah, Avarie, and her endless joy in the most simple of activities. She has been playing with boxes for months now and plays everything from vet, to dog carrier, to cat breeder, to McDonald's worker. She and Ava play for HOURS with all sorts of random boxes. So count this post as one for me to remember the simple days with her, sweet and happy, innocently playing with whatever she can find to fit her game.

All I want for Christmas is that sweet little girl in those boxes, to stay sweet and little for as long as possible. All she wants for Christmas is some more boxes!

Summa Summa Summa

2010-09-21T18:01:00.000-07:00

Whew! So I hear that Thursday is the first day of Fall? Really?!?! Well, I suppose I better get a little summer update on here then.

I see that my last post was from June 11, which is exactly one week before Tate's last day of kindergarten, and 8 days before Tate and Avarie left for the summer. Tate had a great kindergarten year, and Avarie grew up so much during her 2 year old preschool year. They were excited to spend the summer with their dad in Colorado, a little nervous about being away from mommy that long, but excited just the same. The end of preschool for me, the end of school for Tate, a birthday visit from my dad, and just life in general didn't give me much time to get upset before they left. (Although I'm sure Todd would say that I shed my fair share of tears.) At any rate, we met Derek in DC on June 18 and the kids flew back with him in time for Father's Day.
The first week was torture, to say the least. I remember Monday morning waking up early to go for my morning walk, and coming back to Todd's expecting a kitchen full of hungry kids, just like every other day. Kids smiling and happy that I am a morning person and am happy to cater to them for breakfast. I walked in and it was silent. No kids. Not mine. Not his. Just quiet. I know there are lots of moms (and dads) who ache for a break, just a day of peace and quiet. I know that I have my moments where I need space, but I have never been a mom who wants to get away from my kids. So, a morning of silence in what is usually a noisy, happy kitchen was painful. I cried immediately. Todd was so sweet, and I knew that I would make it through the summer, and tried to remind myself that this was a chance to take some time for me. Things I didn't expect to be difficult were awful - laundry, grocery shopping, going all the places I usually take my kids in the summer.
Fortunately, I chose to work quite a bit this summer while my kids were away. So, those quiet mornings were quickly filled with hurried hugs and coffee handoffs as I headed to work at 7:30am. At work, I got to get my kid fix with all the sweet faces of summer day care. I also got to get lots of time with Todd's kids every other week, and got a chance to do some fun summer things with them - spend afternoons at the pool, go to the library, outings to Whole Foods, and more. Todd spoiled me ROTTEN with dinners and evenings out to restaurants I'd never been to, concerts, long lazy weekends at the pool and more! We really enjoyed our time together, and he was so sweet waiting up for me to talk to my kids every night. I couldn't believe how fast the days flew by and before I knew it, it was mid-July and Todd and I were headed to Colorado to see the kids.
We got to spend a fun evening with my best college buddies, their husbands and kids. We laughed til we cried, as usual. Ally and Angie and I still know how to wrangle the kids, keep our guys on their toes and have a good time. My life is so much sweeter with friends like them!
My dad picked us up in Denver and drove us all the way back to Ridgway so we could enjoy time with Papa and Nana too. We got an unexpected surprise to join us in Ridgway - Heather broke her leg and needed some help and R&R so she and baby Boden spend the week with us too. Ridgway was great - a chance to soak up every minute with my kids, a chance for Todd to get to know my family, and a chance to enjoy gorgeous Colorado summer in the mountains. We spent a day in Silverton, drove to Telluride, swam in the hot springs, saw lots of wildlife and farm life, and just enjoyed the company. I couldn't have asked for a better place to spend the week. Good food, good wine, lots of smiles!
*sigh* That's only half...

Milestones

2010-06-11T16:02:00.000-07:00

I celebrated my 32nd birthday Monday and I have been reflecting on the many milestones in my life in the last year. It's funny to even see the number 32 because I swear I don't feel a day over 26. Why 26, which is the age I jokingly tell people when they ask how old I am, of all the ages I've been, why 26? I realized I definitely still feel like I'm in my 20's but I can't go back before 25 because that's when Tate was born, and his birth making me a mom is such a big part of my life that I most certainly cannot possibly feel younger than when he has been a part of my life. There are certainly things about my life that feel younger than 26, but "mommy" became a part of me and it's not going anywhere EVER. I still love to do all the things I did at 26 - exercise daily, eat yummy food, have drinks with friends and family, blast the music in the car with the sunroof open (and maybe sing, sometimes), learn new things, be a teacher, read smut, shop, savor each season but count down to the next, sit in the sun, SMILE. Maybe it's that all these things are a part of me and that isn't going to change year to year, but this year has been different to put it mildly and if there was ever a year for change, this was it. But all those things remained constant, with a few happy additions, and a few sad deletions, but ME is still ME, and that's a good feeling.
A year ago I thought I was moving back to Colorado, ready to hit the reset button in a sense and start over where I thought I would be home and safe. That all came crashing down around me just a few days after my birthday. What a difference a year makes. This year I was spoiled with a visit from my Dad, a weekend of busy summer activities, and a nice dinner on my actual birthday. My dad arrived on Thursday and stayed through the weekend, he left Sunday afternoon. He got the full welcome of me at the airport with 4 kids to pick him up. He got to meet Todd, Todd's kids, Todd's parents, my wonderful colleagues and friends at work. He went to lunch with Tate at school and spent the morning with Avarie on Friday. We had a wonderful dinner with Todd's parents and all the kids on Saturday night. I was spoiled with delicious barbecue dinner and spoiled with presents. I'm not someone who likes a bunch of presents and such (hated wedding and baby showers) but I have found someone who insists on spoiling me now no matter what the occasion. Todd helped the kids pick out a new sunshine charm for my Pandora bracelet (a sunshine that looks eerily like my tattoo) and Todd got me a beautiful jewelry box to hold all the treasures he spoils me with. I got two other charms from Bridgette (a cupcake) and their parents (a flip flop). We all went to church on Sunday morning to celebrate Bridgette's son Dylan's First Communion which turned out to be a bit dramatic but everything turned out ok. We took my dad to the airport Sunday afternoon which was an easier goodbye than usual because I get to see him again in July.
Monday was back to work and school as usual, although I haven't worked on my birthday since college, but there's nothing like a group of four year olds to help you celebrate. That and an awesome basket of wine and chocolate from my teammate. After work, school and the bus stop, we went out to a wonderful dinner at a local Italian restaurant where we ate bruschetta, black ink pasta and steak. We laughed and talked and enjoyed our dinner and I couldn't help but smile to remind myself of last year. It's funny how little moments make you realize the things about yourself that you celebrate every year. I couldn't have kept all those pieces of me that I described above without the wonderful people who have supported me in every way in the last year, the good, the bad and everything in between. I never thought any of this could happen to me but I'm so grateful for the person I have become, the person I've been for these 26 (plus 8) years.

Happy Mother's Day 2010

2010-05-11T14:10:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day is a tough one for me. Even though I am a mom and that role is now central to my identity, I still have such strong and fond memories of my mom, especially on Mother's Day, that I find myself trying still celebrating her on Mother's Day. I know I wouldn't be the mom I am without the mom I had. My fondest memory of Mother's Day growing up was the big brunch that my family hosted every year. It was a big group of extended friends and family, with the favorite brunch menu that they had crafted and perfected over many years. Green chile eggs, sticky cinnamon rolls, cheesy hashbrown potatoes, fruit salad, coffee cake, bacon and sausage cooked at the grill. There was juice for the kids and plenty of champagne for juice for the adults. I can still picture the warm spring days spent honoring the mothers in my life. That's what I've learned over time, especially since my mom died, Mother's Day is about celebrating the moms in your life.
I decided to celebrate Mother's Day this year with brunch, my favorite meal of any day, just one that you only seem to eat on special occasions. Enter one fantastically fantastic day...sleep in, get breakfast for the kiddies, make cinnamon rolls, take a long walk by myself, spend the day on the deck in the sun with my kids, take a nap (possibly induced my the champagne in the morning), cuddle in bed with the two yummiest kids ever. Really?!?! It was that good. Brunch at Todd's with Bridgette and her family, and their parents was delicious, of course. I was SPOILED by Todd and my kids who got me two new necklaces - one that says mom with a stone for each of my kids birth month and one from my favorite jewelry store The Golden Bear.
I couldn't ask for more as a mom - healthy, happy kids who make me smile everyday and having people in my life who make me a better mom everyday.

May Day at the beach

2010-05-03T12:13:00.001-07:00

Todd and I enjoying Little Island Beach, Virginia

Tate and Avarie - happy beach babies

The fishing pier

Me and the kids

Avarie and Mommy

Avarie - aka Coppertone Baby

There's a lot to get used to in this new life of mine, but one thing I will happily get used to are the happy surprises...like Thursday evening when I had to gather some things for the kids and I for a quick trip to Virginia Beach! Spring in Virginia is fantastic and I think this has been the most beautiful spring since I've lived here - super warm, amazing flowers, and green green green! It makes you antsy for the pool to open and get into the summer swing. Well, the calendar still says May so we have a few weeks until we can enjoy the pool, but (yay!) we only live about an hour and a half from the beach. I missed the spring break trip to the beach with Bridgette and her family and Todd and his kids, and hadn't ever been to Virginia Beach. Todd surprised the kids and I with a quick trip to the beach to enjoy a little summer preview. We drove down Friday afternoon and stayed right at the center of Virginia Beach. We walked down the beach and watched the kids play on the playground by Neptune's statue, then enjoyed a FANTASTIC dinner at Catch 31, one of Gavin and Bridgette's favorite VA Beach spots. Great atmosphere - eating on the patio, a pound of steamed shrimp, and gazing out on the water. After dinner we headed to get some ice cream, but poor Avarie took her first big spill and tore her little knee open so we had to head back to the hotel instead. Saturday morning we drove about 20 miles south to what Todd called "the locals' beach" and enjoyed the OBX feel of Sandbridge and Little Island. It was BEAUTIFUL! We relaxed in the sun and played in the water with the kids. The water was a bit cold for swimming, but the kids splashed and played and giggled all day. We packed up in the late afternoon and headed home, with a quick stop at the outlets for new Crocs and dinner at Outback.
And now we've created a monster...because I know the beach is that great and that close...hmmmmmmm, what are we doing next weekend?!?!?

Mama Mia...It's Pizza Night!

2010-04-21T19:11:00.000-07:00

I know every mom out there can agree that dinner time can be a real adventure sometimes. I am proud to say that I have two very good eaters who will try just about anything and eat all kinds of crazy things. I can't exactly pinpoint how this happened, but I am grateful every time I have a sushi craving and I know that my kids are more than happy to accompany me for some sticky rice and seaweed. That being said, they also like the good ol' childhood faves including pizza. Todd is a great cook (and I do pretty well too) and the kids all eat pretty much anything we serve, but we decided to indulge their wants and let them make their own pizzas this week. It was an easy dinner and they each got a chance to create what they wanted for dinner. An assembly line would have been too messy and someone would have gotten more cheese, or not enough sauce, or who knows what shortage might have occurred. We thought we were giving them each a chance to make a quick pizza but when they were finished, we smiled at each of their pizzas because it was so illustrative of each of their personalities. So the little girls went first and created a perfect cheesy masterpiece with 3 cute little pepperonis. As you can see, they ate more pepperoni than they put on their pizza. Tate was up next and got the sauce and cheese just perfect. But his pepperoni is arranged in a perfect circle with one in the middle. He likes things in order, arranged, and under control - everything has its place. Westin's sauce and cheese were a cinch, and he threw his pepperoni on like he was putting whipped cream on a sundae, and then a little more cheese on top of that. There is no rhyme or reason to it, it just is, which is how the rest of Westin is - if it's workin, let it work. Enzo went last which is a rarity for the oldest, or so I've been told. He wanted to see what the others had done, and created his pizza accordingly. He also arranged his pepperoni in what I would call a neat and organized way - 3 rows of 3. When we put them all together to put them in the oven, we stopped to make sure we would be able to tell the pizzas apart, because if there's one thing we've learned it's that they ALWAYS know whose is whose. We smiled and laughed when we leaned over to look at the pizzas and realized that telling them apart would be no problem, just like it's no problem to tell them apart in real life. Each with their own special talents, quirks and gifts. Pretty sure pizza night was a hit because there wasn't much left to take for lunch the next day.

Tater Tot is 6...really?!?!? SIX

2010-03-30T18:18:00.000-07:00

It's been a few days now, and I am still trying to digest the fact that Tate Jackson Mattila brightened my life over 6 years ago. Harder to believe is the fact that on March 30, 2004 he was still in the NICU. I look at this little guy everyday and am so thankful that, as my mom and dad used to say to me, "he came to live at my house." He has grown up so much this year - I don't know if it's kindergarten and being in school away from me all day, getting through the changes in our family or just part of growing up, but he makes me smile everyday and makes me so proud to be a mom.

Enough of the sappy mommy memories...

He decided that he would like to see a movie for his birthday so Todd and I took Tate and the other 4 big kids to see "How to Train Your Dragon" in 3D. It was fantastic and we all stuffed ourselves on popcorn and candy then raced home to enjoy some yummy cake too. Tate had chosen a Super Mario Brothers cake and so I had to deliver. It came out perfect, with a little help from some little figures I picked up and Toys r Us. We enjoyed the nice weather and the kids played outside all afternoon. Tate got a new scooter from my dad and Kay so that was a hit. Of course, there were Legos and video games too, but that day was for outside play.

We are getting ready for Easter and Spring Break here, although spring has certainly arrived in Virginia. The trees are flowering and the grass is green and I love it!!!

Avarie turns 3!

2010-03-07T16:38:00.001-08:00

Avarie Sue celebrated her 3rd birthday on February 18 (yes, I'm a little behind). Her dad came to visit the weekend before and they celebrated with cake and a few presents. We celebrated the next Sunday when we could celebrate with the 8 kids Avarie spends most of her time with - Todd's 3 kids and Bridgette and Gavin's 3 kids and Avarie's beloved Tater Tot of course. We kept the celebration simple, which was probably a good thing since I picked out an awesome "Wonder Pets" cake that took Todd all day to make. It looked simple enough and he had already started it so I figured I would just let him make the masterpiece, and it turned out amazing!!! (He says I'm on my own for Tate's Super Mario Brothers cake.) Avarie LOVED it and we all ooohed and aaaahed at how great it tasted. The kids enjoyed their cake and helped Avarie open presents, including a new pink scooter, a SuperWhy computer, a princess puppet and more pieces to her Swan Palace. It's amazing that my baby is already 3, yet I still remember being pregnant with her and the anticipation of her arrival like it was yesterday. She is happy, healthy, and growing like crazy. At her 3 year check up, she was 36 pounds and 37 inches tall, and doing all the things a 3 year old should do. She loves school, loves her teachers and loves playing outside. She loves playing pretend, and she and Ava have a funny pet/vet/go to the beach game that is hilarious. Unfortunately, she has been battling ear infections again and the doctor and I decided that she should see the ENT again about tubes. In the big scheme, it's no big deal, just another part of being a kid. I love her to pieces and am loving the little girl she's become.
Happy Birthday, Avarie Sue!

Some snow videos

2010-01-11T18:43:00.000-08:00

Avarie and Morgan, my friend Bridgette's daughter

Tater Tot

We had a fantastic snowstorm back in December. We never expected it to be as big as it was, and boy were we happy! Fortunately, the power didn't go out, school was out for break and it was time for some fun. We had snowball fights, and PLENTY of sledding on the sledding hill in the neighborhood. Here's a few videos of the kids sledding on the 2nd day, when it had quit snowing. Don't let the sun deceive you because it was COLD! You may have seen the video of me doing a very graceful trip down the hill on the first day while it was still snowing. Amazingly enough, there is still snow on the ground around town and in the parking lots - a first in my 4 years here in Virginia. (You have to pause the Playlist to hear the sound of the videos.)

Looking ahead to a new year...

2009-12-30T07:54:00.000-08:00

As many of you know, it's been a wild year for our family. I have avoided the blog for as long as I can, until things settled down. I finally feel like things are settling down and I'm ready to embrace my new normal and get back to sharing our lives and keeping up with the life I had, including this blog.

The children and I enjoyed an early Christmas in Virginia, and then I took them to visit their dad in Colorado. They had a great visit and we enjoyed time in Winter Park with my dad, Kay, Gran, Travis, Heather and their kids. Travis and Heather have a wonderful house in Winter Park and the cousins had a blast playing together. It was COLD, and I decided not to ski on this trip, but we had a blast together. We really appreciate their hospitality and hope we can see them again on our next visit!

I enjoyed some peace and quiet at my friend Michelle's house. She was so nice to let me stay at her house while she and her daughter Dylan were gone. I missed my girl time with her, but got to have lunch with Derek's mom and sister one day, have lunch with my best friend Ally who is expecting her 3rd baby in March, and have coffee with Colleen and Kay and catch up with them. We are back in Virginia and I am working a few days before we ring in 2010 with friends in the neighborhood. It is hard to believe that it is already 2010...weren't we just bracing for the chaos that was supposed to come with y2k?

The kids and I send greetings for a happy and healthy 2010 to you and your family. HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

April Flashbacks

2009-05-27T07:08:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday, Tate! With the new Star Wars Legos :)

A trip to the Butterfly Pavillion with Grandma and Auntie Amy

Papa taking Avarie for a ride around the park in the wagon

Avarie's Easter Egg Hunt

I'm struggling with Monday being June 1st already, and can't believe how fast the past two months have gone. So, here's a quick update to get me back to posting in the present or at least near past.

Tate turned 5 on March 27 and we celebrated with pizza and cupcakes with friends at school. He really wanted to have ALL of his preschool friends to celebrate and I knew I wasn't up for a big party by myself this year. It worked great and Tate was happy to finally turn 5...although he now thinks kindergarten starts any day now. Derek narrowly avoided several major accidents and drove all over the front range trying to get to Richmond in time for Tate's birthday. He escaped the day after a big snowstorm and arrived in time to have a late dinner with us on Tate's actual birthday. Tate was happy, especially since Daddy brought Star Wars Legos from the Lego store in Colorado.

That was all she wrote for the big 5th birthday since Derek was here to help me get the final touches on the house and get it on the market. We worked our tails off...Derek in the garage packing and making trips to the dump and me inside organizing and touching up paint, etc. Derek left Sunday afternoon and I was scheduled to leave Monday morning with the kids to go to Colorado for 2 weeks. We got the house done and with a sign in the yard in time for me to leave Monday. Whew!

So, the kids and I headed to Colorado for some much needed family time and fun and a break from the HOUSE! We spent a week with Davin and Kelly and Derek's family in the Denver area. I was able to take a few days looking for houses, visit some possible schools for Tate, visit friends and family, and take a few days to just breathe and relax. We celebrated Tate's birthday again at the legendary Casa Bonita which was lots of fun at the time, but I think we are all just now getting our digestive tracks back in order. Oy vey!

We spent the second week at my Dad and Kay's in Ridgway. The kids had a blast in the "park" in front of my dad's house, hiking, swimming in the hot springs, and enjoying the fresh mountain air. I enjoyed not having to lift a finger - no cooking, cleaning, etc - thanks to Kay! Derek came down on Friday night to spend Easter weekend with us. We woke up Easter Sunday to several inches of snow, but the kids were thrilled that Mr. E.B. had hidden the eggs inside. This is the first year that we have dyed real Easter eggs since Tate outgrew his egg allergy. He even ate one of the eggs after the hunt was over. I don't know that I will ever get used to him eating eggs. Since it was snowing, we thought it would be best to head back to Denver. Tate and I went to church with Nana and Papa while Derek and Avarie packed the car. After a great week in the mountains, I got my first reminder of what spring snow storm can mean for dirving. It took us quite a while to get through the tunnel and down into Denver, but Derek did a great job taking it slow and getting us back safely. It was a great visit to Colorado, difficult to say goodbye and come back to Virginia for a while, but comforting knowing we will all be in Colorado together soon!

Once back in Virginia, it was back to our daily routine of preschool, keeping the house clean and tidy and anxiously awaiting spring. We got back just in time to see the early spring flowers including the wisteria and dogwoods, neither of which we will see in Colorado. I am trying to take in all the things that are unique to living in Virginia until we leave. The flowers and amazingly long growing season are just one of those things.

I put most of April's pictures on our Shutterfly share site http://familymattila.shutterfly.com/ You will need the password - mattila

Toothless Wonder

2009-05-11T11:49:00.000-07:00

Well, here we go. As if I didn't feel like Tate was growing up way too fast already, he lost his first tooth on March 10. Yes, that is 17 days before his 5th birthday. He quit sucking his thumb in February and I have found myself to be very observant of his smile and how his teeth are slowly moving back into position after almost 5 years of the thumb. One day I noticed his bottom teeth were looking a bit bonky and asked if I could touch them. One was already noticeably wiggly! I asked if he had been wiggling them and he said no, like he was going to be in trouble or something. Well, about two weeks later the right one was barely hanging on. I tried to get it out but couldn't bear to pull the first one so I left him to work on it. Sure enough, laying in bed he pulled it right out!
Having taught kindergarten and first grade, most of my students were losing many teeth in those years so I thought Tate would probably lose his around the same time. Never did I dream it would be so early. I have friends whose kids are already in kindergarten and first grade and haven't lost a tooth yet. So, I had to ask around. The dentist told me that kids who get their teeth early as an infant often lose them early. Hmmmm....Tate got his first tooth at about 4 1/2 months and had a mouthful, including 2 year molars by about 17 months. He now already has his 6 year molars too.
So, the tooth fairy visited and left him a dollar and now we wait for the next one to wiggle some more.

For Sale

2009-04-22T05:27:00.000-07:00

Our house - all spruced up and ready for a new owner

The view from my front porch and dining room - yep, a playground in the cul de sac that I can see Tate playing with his friends

The backyard - LOVE the big trees!

Not even an hour after Derek drove away, I was making a list of everything we had to do to get the house ready to sell. I knew Derek wouldn't be back for a few weeks and I knew that I would have to buck up and do a lot of work to get the house looking great. By that night, I had been to the paint store, been digging in closets, cleaning and purging. I was lonely already and knew that staying busy and doing everything I could to get the house sold would get me back to Colorado sooner.

I had a giant list that I would try to check a few things off every day. After a few days I realized that this giant list was extremely overwhelming so I resorted to a list for each room. That was my little mind game - there was still just as much to do but each room looked manageable. I hired someone to come patch some things, repair my front door, replace a piece of siding - all the things that I didn't quite trust myself to do. The funniest was the first weekend when my friend Amy convinced me to mulch my flower beds. I kept telling her I wanted to do a few other things first and she insisted that I get it done because it would probably rain the rest of the month. So, I went to Lowe's, bought I think 30 bags of mulch and spent Saturday and Sunday afternoon spreading them. I was exhausted to say the least, but it felt so good to see how great it looked and know that I did it. I can't even remember everything I did now... I guess I should have been blogging while I did it. The only thing I do remember is that I was exhausted and my kids watched a lot of TV during those weeks, but it had to get done.

So, I slowly checked things off the lists, and finally met with a few realtors toward the end of March. Of course none of them had great news for us. But, we weren't expecting great news either so it made it a little easier to take.

Derek came home for Tate's birthday on March 27th, after struggling to get out of Denver in a huge snowstorm. He was very impressed with all the work I had done. Yes!!! He spent the WHOLE weekend cleaning out the garage, going to the dump and watching Avarie try to help him. He left to return to Denver and the realtor and I worked feverishly to get the house just right before I left on Monday.

It was a whirlwhind to say the least, but we got it done and the house looks fantastic!!! Now, just need a buyer! Keep your fingers crossed...

Here's a link to the realtor.com listing (just in case any of you know someone looking.)

http://www.realtor.com/realestateandhomes-detail/16730-Kipper-Turn_Moseley_VA_23120_1108175254

I love this house and would pick it up and move it to Colorado if I could. I love the floor plan, love the open-ness, love the sitting room in the master bedroom, love the park out front, love the big wooded lot. (I'm not even listing all of this because I am trying to sell it - these are features I genuinely love about this house.) I have loved living in Virginia and will miss many things about it, and I also look forward to so many things about moving back to Colorado.

A New Gig...A Move Home

2009-04-22T05:08:00.000-07:00

Obviously I am way behind on posting. Hopefully these next few posts will explain why there hasn't been time to sit and blog, let alone think.

Many of you already know, but for those of you who don't, I am thrilled to say that Derek has accepted a job with Ultimate Electronics in Colorado as the Director of Merchandising for Appliances and Home Recreation. He is so happy to be back at Ultimate (that was Soundtrack before, the company he had worked for in many different capacities since he was in college) and is so excited for a new challenge in a new category. While the end of Circuit City was tough, I know how much he learned working for a national retailer and how much he will offer Ultimate with his experience at Circuit. I don't know much about the electronics industry, but I know enough to know that Derek is great at what he does and people love working with him.

This new job also means that we will be moving back to Colorado this spring! Derek left before the snow melted the week of March 1, and the kids and I will stay in Richmond for a bit - getting the house ready to sell, and trying to sell the house. As with our move to Richmond, I know it will be tough to be away from each other for a while, but we are so excited to be headed home.

Can't wait to get back and see everyone soon!!!

The snow we never thought would come

2009-03-13T12:29:00.000-07:00

Well, it's been a little over a week since the snow melted away, but boy was that a doozy! The weather folks had been talking all week about possible winter weather here in the east, but after living here for three years, we have come to realize that winter weather can mean anything from just cold to cold and rainy to wintery mix to actual snow. So, we kind of ignored it and decided we would wait and see. Well, see we did because it started snowing Sunday evening around 5:30 and snowed all night long. The power went out for a few hours around 8:30 and then again for most of the night. We woke up to a winter wonderland! We could not believe our eyes. We had about 10 inches at our house and we were thrilled. We spent the day shoveling the driveway and walk, building snowmen, wrestling in it and sledding. Even Derek and I were out there like a bunch of big kids - throwing snowballs and sledding. I think our family had one of the happiest days we have had in a long time. This was both of our kids' first BIG snow so we literally spent most of the day playing in it. Of course school was cancelled on Monday, then again on Tuesday, then again on Wednesday, and then there was a 2 hour delay on Thursday. So, Tate missed the entire week of preschool and wasn't so sure that snow days were all that great. The snow truly didn't melt until Thursday and Friday when it got into the 60s and 70s. Although it was great when it warmed up, we are so glad that we lived here to experience a big Virginia snow! Funny enough, it got so warm last weekend a that I was able to lay all the mulch on our flower beds in preparation for spring. Single digits and snow on Sunday, March 1 and 80 and sunshine on March 8. Wow!

I posted most of the pics on our Shutterfly site - http://familymattila.shutterfly.com/ The password is mattila.

Avarie Sue turns 2!

2009-02-18T12:04:00.001-08:00

Hard to believe that this was already two years ago! This picture of Tate was taken the morning of February 18, 2007 as he was saying goodbye to my belly and hello to his new baby sister. He was so excited! After weeks and weeks of keeping me company on the couch, he was so anxious to finally meet this baby sister we had told him so much about.

Here she is with her daddy at the hospital. Little did he know how a little girl could capture his heart...and she has.

Here is Avarie on her 1st birthday. She had just had her tubes put in and was such a happy girl. She was crawling all over and just beginning to pull up on things but not walking yet.

And, now a year later at 2 with her new dolly. It's fun how girly she has become; a year ago she was pretty happy with Hot Wheels and legos. She still loves to play with her brother with his Batman cave and legos, but she definately has embraced her girly side and plays dolls and kitchen too. She chatters up a storm and has LOTS of words. Just this week she has really started to string a few words together. A favorite topic is the dogs and how they drink water in their room. One of her favorite things to do is go to storytime at Barnes and Noble where we sing songs and hear great stories. She also loves to wrestle with Tate and Derek.

She had a pink cupcake cake and lots of balloons. We took them to Chuck E. Cheese for pizza and games and we all had a great time. There are more pictures on our shutterfly website http://familymattila.shutterfly.com The password is mattila.

We are so proud of our little girl and so happy she came to live at our house! It's hard to believe that she is growing up so fast, but, as Tate says, she will always be our baby sister! Happy Birthday, Avarie Sue!!!

Family Dinner

2009-02-17T13:32:00.000-08:00

Although the past month has been difficult since Circuit City announced their liquidation, we have really enjoyed having our daddy home almost every night for dinner. It's been great to have him at the table with me and the kids most nights since his work day is shorter. He has also been able to witness some of the dinnertime antics that two kids can muster up. I think sometimes he thinks it's a bit crazy as they both come running to the table, but he happily sits down and then cleans up after. Happiness!
Well, the kids have had colds, so time for some good old chicken soup. I made it yesterday afternoon and we were happy to be able to add the yummy wide egg noodles to the soup, instead of the egg free ones we used to have to eat. We often comment on Avarie's strange dislike of certain toddler favorites. For example, melted cheese, and often cheese in general. What toddler doesn't like cheese? So, as the kids were eating their soup, I noticed each of them after particular things in thier soup. Tate slurped up those yummy noodles so fast, and then picked through the carrots and chicken. Avarie ho hummed for a few minutes, slurping broth from the spoon. Tate kept saying, "Avarie, eat the noodles. They're slurpy and yummy." She eventually picked out all the carrots, celery, onions and chicken. Then proceded to pick up her bowl to drink the broth. Seriously?

So, then here's her bowl...she left every single one of those noodles in there. Don't most kids only eat the noodles?

And, here's Tate's bowl...not a noodle in sight, but every onion is in there and a few carrots.

Just had to share, more for my own memory than anything else. Leftovers tonight...wonder if she will try the noodles.

SNOW

2009-02-09T11:29:00.001-08:00

Well, it finally snowed in Richmond, enough to be on the ground long enough to play in it. This was last Tuesday morning and we had to hurry out to play in the snow before preschool in case it melted. This was Avarie's first snow and she loved it!

Tate threw a few snowballs,

made a snow angel, but we didn't quite have time for a snowman since it was only 8:45 and we had to head to school at 9:00. Avarie didn't even mind being the target of the snowballs.

But she didn't like it when she fell down and only had one mitten. Well, learn it early, right? Snow is cold on fingers.

It was actually so cold all week that there was still snow in many shaded areas until Saturday when it got to 65.

A whole new world...of food!

2009-02-04T11:03:00.000-08:00

We have great news to report - Tate has had two successful weeks at the allergist challenging both egg and peanut. He is now able to eat eggs, peanuts, and anything containing either of those items. We are so proud of him, and so proud of us!!! It has been a long and sometimes difficult road with food allergies. Derek took him last Monday with a hard boiled egg and Tate forced a little bit down every 15 minutes, working up to a full tablespoon. No problems whatsoever! Then they went back this week with an jar of organic peanut butter (the only thing we felt safe enough with) and worked his way up to a tablespoon again. No problems again! He didn't really like either on of them but forced them down anyway. Can you imagine trying something for the first time, that your parents have always taught you is dangerous, and having to eat like 2 tablespoons of it? He was a trooper too because 15 minutes after they fed him each taste, the nurse came in to check his belly, breathing, temperature, etc. and then feed him some more.

We feel so fortunate to have had the food allergy journey we have had. We have never had to carry an epi-pen, but we have been vigilant about what we feed him, ingredients and cross contamination. If you haven't had to deal with a food allergy, or haven't known someone who has, it can be rough and frustrating. When we started 4 years ago, it was hard to read the labels on food and eating out was very difficult. Now, allergens are printed in bold at the bottom of the ingredients and many restaurants have thorough allergen safe lists and have chefs that are trained to accomodate people with allergies.

So, the past two weeks have been exciting for Tate. He didn't have to take a special cupcake to the birthday party yesterday, he ate his first bag of M&M's, and as you can see in the picture a powdered sugar donut. After the egg challenge, he chose Campbell's Alphabet soup (egg noodles) and a donut for his first treat. It's a bummer of a time to outgrow a peanut allergy since they can't guarantee the safety of cookies, candies, etc. So, the peanut buttery treats will have to wait. In addition, the allergist feels comfortable feeding Avarie the same foods Tate is eating, just not a plate of scrambled eggs or a PB&J, not that she would like it anyway.

My friend Sarah said it best, "Celebrate by going out to dinner, and don't even call first to ask if there's anything your kid can eat there!" Think about that for a second? Yahoo!!!

Meanwhile...in Avarie's little world

2009-01-12T08:06:00.000-08:00

Eat your heart out, June Cleaver! Avarie is the master multitasker...superhero, chef extraordinaire, and baby whisperer. Ha!

And she has found a better purpose for that doll stroller..."Tate, pease, me go!" He races her around through the playroom and into the family room until they get going too fast and she dumps out. Way to go, Pottery Barn Kids, for making a sturdy stroller that can withstand the demands of a big brother and his hefty little sister!

Could you find a happier face?

Oh, Tater Tot...

2009-01-06T10:45:00.000-08:00

I have been having one of those weeks as a mom where you can't believe how fast your little boy is growing up, yet also love how little he still is. Tate will be 5 in March and I am just amazed at how fast his little mind and body are growing. I am so impressed with all the news things he can do every day-new things he learns, new ways he can help, new things he says, new things he's outgrown. I had been thinking a lot about it on Sunday while he was napping (a perfect example of being almost big but still little). We put away all the Christmas stuff on Sunday and this year Tate was actually a REALLY big help. It was Derek's birthday and Tate offered to help so Daddy could get finished and watch football on his birthday. Tate let Avarie take an ornament off the tree then he would take it and put it in the right box. He was so careful carrying the antique glass ornaments of my mom's and putting them away. Then he went outside in the cold (damp cold) and pulled all the stakes out of the grass and took lights off the little shrubs. Derek and I both commented on how great it was to have a helper!

So, I'm thinking of all this while he naps, when he comes in to tell me he's awake and wants to check on the football game. I go in to turn it on in our sitting room and he has this perfect little boy, rosy face fresh up from a nap. You know the one? Eyes bright, cheeks flushed from sleep. With cheeks like those, we have had many days like this with Tate. That's when it struck me that he's not SO big yet. He sat on my lap and we checked on the playoff game and we chatted about getting Derek's presents wrapped and making a cake for after dinner. We talked about his thumb sucking and how he's working so hard to stop and every day he gets a sticker for his Indiana Jones Lego Wii. This is probably the biggest piece of little Tate that's leaving. I know it's time, and I'm the one that promised the new Wii game. But that little thumb in the mouth when they are sleepy is just shmoopy, but the lingering orthodontist bill is not.

Here he is saying, "OK, mom, enough pictures."

Now helping me make the cake. He loves to help me in the kitchen, especially when I'm making something without eggs so he can lick the bowl. So today was Tate-safe chocolate cake. He measures and stirs all the dry ingredients and then waits at the sink for the bowl and beaters.

Here he is writing Derek's birthday card. I was cleaning up from the cake and he brought the supplies in the kitchen to work. I could hear him repeating what he wanted to write over and over and sounding each word out then re-reading what he had already written. I thought he had a pretty good handle on it and was SHOCKED at what he had written when I walked over. I can't believe I have a kid old enough to write this stuff on his own, yet am so proud that he can already write this stuff on his own. As a former (and someday again) teacher, I do wonder what kindergarten will be like for him next year. I am already preparing myself to be MOM and not get too hyped up as TEACHER.

Anyhow, Tate's card says "When the sun is out then we can ride our bike I love you from Tate"

I know my teacher friend Kris reads my blog...so Kris, am I in trouble or what?

Christmas Joy

2008-12-26T17:14:00.000-08:00

All lit up outside - looks great, Derek!

Waiting to open presents on Christmas Eve

Daddy said to wait on the stairs

Cookin' up something great!

A beautiful Christmas Day to test out the new BIKE!

We have had such a wonderful Christmas with our little family. It's been a hectic couple of months leading up to it, with our fair share of ups and downs. We feel so lucky to have our happy little family, healthy and happy here in Virginia. I think Derek and I have been more excited for this Christmas than ever before, knowing the ages of our kids and how they would react on Christmas morning. I feel like I had played it in my head over and over for the last few weeks. Tate has been so excited this year - knowing exactly what it meant that Santa would be coming and trying so hard to be good, and running down to find Harrison the elf every morning. Avarie could only mimick Tate's excitement since she had no idea what all this Santa, Christmas, present stuff was. (Nevermind she's been with me while I've done almost all the shopping. Guess this is the last year for that, huh?) So, we knew that they would both be thrilled Christmas morning.

It was everything we hoped for and I think Derek and I sat there for over an hour just watching them before Tate turned around and asked if we were ever going to open our presents too. So, here's some pictures of Christmas morning . . . happy kids, happy mom and dad!

Hope you all had a magical and Merry Christmas with your families too!!!

Tra La La ~ Tate's Holiday Performance

2008-12-18T13:22:00.000-08:00

Tate has gone to the same preschool for 3 years now, and loves the weekly music jamboree. All the teachers chuckle at Tate singing away each week. Last year we were in Colorado and missed the Christmas performance, so this year the teachers let me know in September to plan my travel accordingly - that the date was set for December 16th. Well, we aren't travelling this year and were priveleged enough to be entertained by the Woodlake Preschool in holiday song yesterday. Derek, Avarie, Mary and I were there to enjoy their smiling faces and happy voices. I wish I had more video to share but it didn't come out too great. What I do have is a bit shaky from me giggling at my son.

Take a look

Oh man! As a teacher/mom, I know I'm in trouble! He is my paybacks for sure, because I have heard stories about me at preschool and elementary school programs. I missed the warm up to the song because I was having a moment of inappropriate laughter - him feeling his throat, wiggling his arms, and dancing as he prepared for his peformance.

Getting that holiday feeling

2008-12-16T11:08:00.000-08:00

We are still learning the ins and outs of seasonal events in Richmond. The first year we went on the Tacky Lights Tour - yes, Richmond is the CAPITAL of tacky Christmas lights and we took a tour bus all over town to see some amazing displays.
This year I asked around for other events and found a Santa brunch at Maggiano's. What could be better - yummy breakfast food and a chance to see Santa? It was early, and very cold, but we had a great time. I was hoping to get a picture for the Christmas card, but Avarie had other ideas.

Tate was thrilled with all the characters that came to the table to visit. There was a Raggedy Ann and Andy which Avarie loved but wouldn't dare pose for a picture. There were two elves that Tate was quite happy with even though he thought they were a little large for Santa's workshop.

And, of course SANTA!!! We were shocked that Avarie was willing to let Santa hold her for a picture. We think it's because she really wants some dolls so she doesn't have to play Batman with Tate any more. So, she thought she had better cuddle up!

So, that was breakfast on Saturday. We came home for a nap, and daddy put up some Christmas lights outside. YAY!!! We had to go back to Lowe's for more lights, so I thought I would try again to get a Christmas picture. Avarie still wasn't having it, but I did sneak one that will appear at your house soon. Good thing I got one because then the distraction was much more exciting - SNOW!!!!!!!

You can see a few flurries in these pictures and it did leave enough to cover the grass in the morning. We hope this isn't the only snow we see here this winter.

Tate and Avarie tried to catch some snowflakes, and did catch some at Lowe's when there was more coming down.

We finished the weekend by making a Gingerbread House. Tate and I had so much fun, until Avarie woke up and was furious that it wasn't for her to eat. Imagine that? Notice the box in the background - Tate is just like me and wanted his house to look EXACTLY like the one on the box. No pressure, right?

Uh Oh . . .

2008-12-08T11:23:00.000-08:00

It all started with a little after dinner treat of chocolate Santa . . . Oh so happy that mommy gave me candy . . . Oh lucky me . . . Wait until I tell daddy and get wild and crazy on the couch, running, standing on the couch, giggling away . . . "Avarie - sit down" . . . "Avarie - get down or you will go boom" . . . "Not me boom" . . .
BOOM goes Avarie!

And here's the result - her first shiner. In fact, Tate has not had a black eye yet; he's had lots of other bruises and bumps, but no black eye. So, way to go, Sas! This morning she pointed to the couch and said "Me bonk No No."

Do it again. . .

2008-12-06T18:05:00.000-08:00

As a mom, we are oh-so-familiar with those moments when our child is doing something cute and we run to grab the camera, hoping they will keep doing it. Well, I had one of those moments the other day while Tate and Avarie were playing with the nativitiy set Nana gave them last year. It's a darling set with wooden figures that are great for them to handle and move around. Avarie "arranges" them several times during the day and will threaten you with a finger to the lips and a "Shhhhh . . . baby . . . nigh nigh" which of course means that Baby Jesus is sleeping.
Tate was trying to mend Avarie's destruction in the manger and I hear her giggling away at whatever he is doing. So I run for the camera. Sure do wish I got the first few belly laughs because this is what I ended up with . . .

Needless to say, that was the end of that fun game. Naptime, anyone?

Thanksgiving Victories and Defeats

2008-12-01T11:48:00.000-08:00

(Uploading pictures on this is tricky so my summary is a bit out of touch with the pictures. Sorry!)
We had a fantastic Thanksgiving holiday and long weekend. We spent Thursday afternoon and evening enjoying a delicious meal and the company of our friends (and Virginia family) at the Bickfords. They have a tradition of hosting those folks who don't go "home" for the holiday and we joined several other Circuit City families to celebrate. It's lots of food,wine, laughs and football . . . and this year I provided delicious gravy and EVEN more laughs than usual with a dinnertime catastrophe. That's for another post, though. We are so thankful to have them as friends!
Friday morning Derek began his usual Black Friday at 4am helping with crowd control at the stores. He and some coworkers decided they could use some FUN in these tough times and organized a flag football game for the afternoon. I have to say I was nervous and thought they might be better off watching football instead, but the kids and I trekked up to watch anyway. Boy, for a bunch of corporate guys, they sure did play some great football. And, I could tell that was just what they needed. The kids loved watching Daddy, Charlie, Phil, Matt, Doug, Keith and many other CC coworkers run around like little kids. No major injuries, Derek's team was victorious, and my next worry . . . would the soreness pass in time for the work week on Monday?

Avarie and Tate found some other friends to play football with and then they borrowed some toys, and the car for some more fun. Avarie batted her eyes at everyone there to get them to push her up and down the hill in the little car.

It was getting cold and now it was time for some BUFFALO football! So, we headed over to Doug and Chrissy's to watch the Black Friday Bowl - CU vs. Nebraska. Well, let's just say the food was great, the friends were fun, and ...the Buffs were not victorious like Daddy's team. Bummer! Tate shed a few tears when Cody Hawkins' last pass was tipped and intercepted. Then, after a few moments to gather himself, he blurted out, "I know what the problem is...something is different...the problem is HIM!" As he said this, he turned and pointed to our friend Phil who is behind Tate in the picture in the Nebraska shirt. Usually Phil cheers for the Big 12 with us when we watch the Buffs, but he cheers for the Huskers too. Well, leave it to Tate to turn that frown upside down. Sorry, Phil, we forgive you!

Hope you all had a Happy Thanksgiving where you are too!

New Camera!!!

2008-11-24T11:10:00.000-08:00

I think Derek and I realized how important a camera would be the day Tate was born. We received a nice digital camera as a wedding present from a vendor when Derek was the camera buyer at Soundtrack. That one camera has documented everything since then and has always taken GREAT photos, easy to operate, great size, durable. Well, apparantly eveything has its day and that camera's day came last week when it informed me that it couldn't read the memory card. What?!?! After I tried a few memory cards, made a trip to the camera store, and the specialized camera repair man, the sad reality was that the camera bit the dust. I sulked over it for a few days, not ready to make friends with a new one. Well, Derek is not the camera buyer anymore so there was no great gift this time. But we were able to find a new version of our old one and we tested it out last night during Sunday Night Funtime on the Bridge (that's what Tate calls this playtime.) So far so good . . . it's going to get a test this week with my Ebay listings and as we enter the holiday season. Hope it can last as long as the last one!

Run, Tate, run!!! Daddy has been hiding . . .

Avarie needs a break . . . Daddy is scary, she says.

Mommy's turn - and Avarie's turn to have CHUBBY CHEEKS!!!

Halloween and Leaf Collecting

2008-11-11T07:48:00.000-08:00

Happy (2 weeks later) Halloween!
We had a great Halloween and enjoyed all the usual fun - pumpkin carving, dressing up, trick or treating and eating candy! Here's Tate helping carve one of 5 pumpkins Derek carved this year. Tate loved helping sort the seeds so we could cook and eat them. Avarie was a little more concerned with the mess and followed everyone around with a tissue to wipe up. Hmm...maybe she can clean the kitchen today.

Here are the kids in their costumes. Tate had wanted to be a spider and have Avarie be Little Miss Muffet, but appropriate Miss Muffet costumes are hard to find unless she was going for the sexiest baby contest. So, we settled on a pig which Tate was thrilled that it was like Wilbur and Charlotte, "Only I'm not a girl spider," he informed us.

Here's Dora and Diego; we also had a white one that said BOO, a pirate ship and a good ol' fashioned smiling jack-o-lantern. Derek is a bit of a pumpkin overacheiver, but we got lots of compliments that night.

Here's Avarie after trick or treating as she digs into the candy! She was thrilled that she had a bucket all to herself. A new tradition in our house this year was a visit from The Great Pumpkin, as in the Charlie Brown special. The allergist suggested separating all the unsafe candy (peanut butter and many chocolates, and those with no label to check) and leaving it out for The Great Pumpkin. The Great Pumpkin then visited after the kids were asleep and left a safe treat - some safe candy and some Potato Head characters. Yay for the allergist and The Great Pumpkin!!!

Fall colors in central Virginia don't usually peak until the week after Halloween. We had an unusually cold Halloween here this year, so that hurried the leaves along and we were able to get out and take a few pictures and collect a few leaves. This is in our neighborhood the week after Halloween when it had warmed up a bit.

Tate Speaks

2008-11-04T10:33:00.000-08:00

Tate has been home with me and Avarie this week since the county schools are off for conferences. I love having him home and can't imagine how quiet it will be next year when he goes to kindergarten. Here's two conversations . . .

I brought Avarie into our room while I finished getting ready and put her on the couch with Tate. They were watching their usual morning fare of "Arthur" and "Martha Speaks" when he started to get a little sentimental with her.
Tate: Avarie, I love you. You are my best sister I ever had. I'm so glad you came to live at our house.
Avarie: Yeah, me.
Tate: You are my best buddy. (Now hugging (wrestling) her off the couch to be sure he has her full attention.) Avarie, I love you. Buddy, guess what? I get to stay home with you two days this week. I have no school because the big kids are out of school. Buddy, did you hear me?
Avarie: uhhh-huuuuh (This is the standard answer when she doesn't really understand. A happy affirmative.)
Tate: Avarie, aren't you so HAPPY to get to play with me? We are bestest buddies, and I love you. Am I your best buddy too?
Avarie: No. . . No, Tate.
Tate: Mom, Avarie is not understanding us this morning. She is answering the wrong things I am asking her.

I love listening to them!

Then today Tate was in examining the jack-o-lanterns that are now in the foyer waiting to go with the trash tomorrow. I thought I knew where this would go, but I was wrong. I thought he would be so sad that Halloween is over and "what time" (how long until) we can carve pumpkins again.
Tate: Mommy . . . something is going on in here. These pumpkins are. . . are. . . are. . .
(I'm smiling and listening in the other room, ready with "Halloween will come again next year. Don't worry, there are lots of other things to look forward to.")
Tate: Well, they are not happy. On Sid the Science Kid they said a word DECAY. That's it, mom, the sad news is that our pumpkins are in decay. Do you know that word?
Me: Wow, Tate, that's a big word.
Tate: Yes, I know. I learned it and wanted to try it out and this is the perfect chance. Our pumpkins are decaying. I think I will look to see if anything else is in decay around here.

Seriously?! I think I better donate to PBS for my kids for Christmas. I wonder if they know what they have created in my house.

Fall Festivities

2008-11-01T13:44:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I didn't get this posted during the week. Oh well, guess I will have to get busy then!
We had an action packed weekend last week with three days of fun. Derek took a much deserved afternoon off so we could head up to Charlottesville to pick apples at Carter Mountain Orchard. We had heard about it for a few years and finally got a chance to go check it out. It was a cool, grey day but it was perfect for a walk in the orchard and picking apples. We found trees full of Fuji apples; we wish we could have been there the next day for Pink Lady apples but maybe next time. We picked (and ate) lots of apples, drank some warm apple cider and ate the famous apple cider donuts before we headed back. The donuts absolutely melted in your mouth - TDF! We took a short detour to drive around the UVA campus and decided that we will definately have to make a trip back this winter. Charlottesville is just far enough west, and just a little higher, that they actually get SNOW.

Saturday night, Derek and I were lucky enough to attend a wedding of someone that works for Derek. Matt and Annie had a beautiful wedding in Colonial Williamsburg and a fabulous reception at a winery there. How cool - the church where they were married dates back to 1683 and is where some of our country's founding fathers worhipped. Mary was so nice to keep the kids at home so we enjoyed the evening without kids and drove back the next morning. Congratulations, Matt and Annie!

Sunday we had to pry our eyes open and head back so I could put on the community Halloween party at the Clubhouse. (Probably not my best date planning, but at least the party wasn't until 4:30.) Actually, as it usually happens, Derek ends up doing as much work as I do and we end up co-hosting the party, hee hee! The kids ate, paraded, ran around and got another chance to show off their costumes. Tate chose Spiderman for this party and Avarie was a piggy.

It was such a FUN weekend with Derek and the kids, and next we are ready for Halloween!

Finally - time for Pumpkins!!!

2008-10-20T11:03:00.000-07:00

Snake skin in the hay pile - thank goodness it was just the skin!

One of the things we love about living in Virginia is the fall. It is an absolutely spectacular season here . . . when it finally gets here! Even though the calendar says fall arrives in mid-September, we struggle with summer temps into October. Last week it was 90 one day and I was forced to turn the AC back on!!! No thank you!

Well, lucky us . . . because the fall temps arrived on Friday and we couldn't be happier! We spent the weekend decorating our house with pumpkins, ghosts, scarecrows and leaves. Actually, Derek and the kids did most of it. Saturday we spent running errands on the West End and preparing for Derek to make homemade green chili and chile rellenos. Derek and I got to go out for a date on Saturday night to have a grown-up dinner, and it was so cool and fallish that I got to wear a sweater - HAPPINESS!!! (for date night and sweaters!)

Sunday we headed to the Pumpkin Patch at Chesterfield Berry Farm, where we picked strawberries last spring. It was a goregeous, blustery day and we had a great time! We played in the hay pile (until we saw the snake skin), we fed some farm animals, Tate played in the corn, we ate some cotton candy, and most important - We got 3 great pumpkins! It was a great family day. There was no afternoon Bronco game, so Derek roasted the chiles and made a fantastic dinner. We miss Mexican food SO much and the only way we get decent food is if Derek makes it. Lucky me to have a husband who cooks every Sunday!!!

God Love 'Em!!!

2008-10-09T13:54:00.000-07:00

I always knew wanted to be a mom, but there are some days I could just eat mine up!!! Yesterday was one of those days. After preschool, my kids spent about 30 minutes ruining the squirrels' winter by collecting acorns around the oak tree by the driveway. I have to admit that I wasn't really paying attention and didn't think much of it when Tate asked for a bag. He went in and got one, me still not paying attention to the fact that he had a gallon ziploc bag, not the usual sandwich size! So, the rule is that the acorns have to stay outside (I'm afraid critters will smell them and want to get in the garage) so this HUGE bag of acorns is sealed outside in a planter. It's a terribly cruel joke on the squirrels on Kipper Turn. Maybe they will undertstand that the bad economy affects them too!
Next up, Avarie as the next Immelda Marcos . . .

Derek and I love to play card games with Tate before bed, so last night we were deep in our 3rd game on UNO and Avarie often wanders around while we play. The child LOVES shoes. If we are out shopping and go into the shoe section, she squeals with delight and shouts, "Choos, Choos!" Derek does not understand the dangerous connection between shoes and Choos and I think we should keep it that way. I knew she was in the shoe basket (not unusual) but about died when I walked over and she had EVERY pair out and paired up and had probably tried on all of them. (That picture does not show all the shoes she eventually had out.) What's even better is the pair she finally chose as the perfect finishing touch to her outfit . . . Tate's DIRTY Keen sandals!
I don't think this look will make it in the pages of "In Style" or on Project Runway, but her ultimate happiness came when she realized she had pockets too! Strike a pose, Sas!
God love 'em!

Remembering...

2008-10-08T11:13:00.000-07:00

Today has been 10 years since I lost my mom and I wanted to post something in rememberance and in celebration of her life. Here's a picture from when she was younger; I have loved looking through old pictures during the last week. I still hear her voice in my head and can still feel the warmth of her smile. It's hard to think of my life 10 years ago when she was so sick. I am so grateful to the people who supported me then and support me now. Each of you has taken on a little piece of her and I am so lucky to have those pieces in my life.

At my cousin's wedding this summer, my aunt and uncle and cousins and I laughed at the unmistakable resemblance between my mom and I, especially as I get older (eesh!). What's even more amazing is when I look at pictures of her when she was a baby and young child and how much my kids look like her! Wow! Today Tate asked me if I miss my mom and I said I do and he told me that he will love me since my mom is not here to love me. Then he told me somthing that Derek and I have told him before - that she is an angel who smiles down on us everyday. It's so sweet but he always looks up when he is going to ask about her or talk about her.

So, tonight, we will raise a glass in celebration of BBS!

More September

2008-09-30T10:50:00.001-07:00

I knew as I was writing those entries that something was missing. After Amy left, my Aunt Penny and Uncle Jack came to visit for a few days. They live in Florida and were up north for their class reunions and some other visits and came to Richmond to see us for a few days. They have 10 grandkids and my kids were thrilled to have someone to play with again! I haven't seen them in a couple years and it was great to have them here. My aunt sews and smocks the most beautiful dresses and there is a fabric store here that she likes. So, we went there one day while Tate was at preschool. It was kind of a rainy week so we were limited in what we could do, but it really was great to have them visit. We are hoping to get down to Florida to visit them sometime soon!

September ~ gone in a flash! (2)

2008-09-30T09:52:00.000-07:00

Tate started preschool the week after Labor Day and is thrilled to be in Four Year Old School this year. He goes Monday through Thursday for a couple hours and loves his teachers Ms. Tina, Ms. Brooke and Mr. Anthony. Avarie had a tough time adjusting to waking up before 8 AM everyday and spending time without "my tot" as she calls Tate. Of course, Tate is up at 6:30 every morning and barely even turns around to say Goodbye when we drop him off.
Amy was still visiting so I was lucky to be able to be in the picture with Tate. And below is Tate M. and Tate C. Many of you have heard my story about choosing an original name and then meeting another Tate in our neighborhood who goes to the same preschool. They are both great kids and we couldn't have chosen a better name for either of them! I am so AMAZED at how much Tate is learning and can't believe the things he shows me, tells me and wants to try. (More on that in another post.)
Another big event in September was Derek and Tate's triumph over Bowser in Super Mario Galaxy on the Wii. This has been part of their weekend time together since we got the Wii last Christmas and they have battled their way through countless galaxies together. It is a blast to listen to them and watch Tate jump around with excitement. Well, they finally beat Bowser which is the Battle Royale if you will. I didn't have video games growing up (maybe that went with Barbies) and I have yet to beat any game; I just try to play long enough to compete. But the Wii has been fun for all of us and I love watching Tate learn about winning and losing when we play. He hates to lose on the Wii just as much as he hates to lose at Chutes and Ladders, Uno, or Memory. But, he has to learn; don't we all?
Congratulations, boys, and I'm sure there will be many more games to come!

September ~ gone in a flash!

2008-09-30T07:40:00.000-07:00

September was a very busy month here and it's hard to believe it's already over! We started the month with a visit from Derek's sister Amy, who made her way down after a summer working at camp in Maine. She needed to wind down before returning home so she came to stay with us for a couple weeks. We had a BLAST! We visited Maymont, a historical society landmark downtown, and fed the animals and walked around. We made trips to the zoo, to get the kids pictures taken, and other mom errands that I'm sure Amy was thrilled with. She was a trooper though and I loved having the company, and the kids were SPOILED with attention.

Amy was lucky enough to be here for the CU/CSU game; the CU fans were happier than she was - GO BUFFS! Tate insisted on wearing the hat Amy made him a few years ago even though it was hot and humid that day. He kept jumping and cheering and then complaining that he was hot. Hello?!

I couldn't fit any more pictures in this entry so the rest of September is in the next entry.

The Last Hurrah . . . for this summer

2008-09-05T12:05:00.000-07:00

Here's just a few pics of our last few days at the pool. Our days were cut short by the rains of Hurricane Faye who dumped 6 inches of rain in two days during our last week. But we were still able to spend MANY days at the pool, swimming, lunching, and playing with friends. It is always unfortunate here because the pool closes WAY before it cools down, so we have been wishing it was still open this week. It has been a summer of firsts for us - Avarie was not walking when the pool opened and now struts all over the place, Tate learned to swim (like Michael Phelps according to him) and go off the diving board, Avarie also learned to swim (go under and float without coughing and screaming) and jump off the side, and we met lots of new friends that had moved into our neighborhood over the winter months. I am always so thankful for this luxury in our neighborhood and am thrilled that my kids love to be there as much as I do! Hope summer was happy where you are too!

Take me out to the ballgame . . .

2008-08-25T07:55:00.000-07:00

The boys of summer took a trip to see the big leaguers play in DC last weekend. Derek and Tate joined our friends Rick and Ryan Bickford to watch the Rockies take on the Nationals in DC and had a great time cheering the Rockies to victory! After a week of training with Circuit City in Las Vegas, Rick and Derek were thrilled to get back on the road for the drive to DC for the night game. (Get out your tiny violins now . . . They got in at 10 and 10:30 pm respectively on Friday night the drove to DC for the game on Saturday night. They didn't get home until 1:00 am on Sunday morning from the game. It's a rough life, you know? Mary and I say "Wah!")
Ryan, Tate and Rick before the game
Tate enjoying some cotton candy
Rick and Derek told me that a few minutes after this picture was taken, Tate turned to Derek and said, " You can eat the rest. I think I ate too much hot dog and ice cream and now this cotton candy gave my tummy sickness. I told you you shouldn't have bought that cotton candy, daddy." At least I know I'm not the only one who gets parenting advice from my four year old. The next morning when I asked Tate what his favorite part was, he told me that I should never eat cotton candy, but the game was fun and a boy just in front of them caught a ball. Daddy didn't even catch it, he said. Now, Mary and I say, "I love that boy!"

Things you don't do in Virginia in August . . .

2008-08-17T06:28:00.000-07:00

We have been busy the last few weeks, mostly due the unusually comfortable weather. Typically the weather in Richmond in August only has a few descriptions - hot or hotter, humid or sticky, or sometimes we just say it feels like an armpit outside (yum, right?). Well, for the past two weeks, we have only had one 90 degree day and we've had lows in the 60s overnight. My friend Mary and I even celebrated by turning off the AC and sleeping with the windows open for 3 nights. (This is a special treat since we usually have to wait until late September, October and November for open windows.) Can you tell how happy that makes me?
Anyhow, this has allowed us to do some things that are typically very uncomfortable in August.

We started with Tate's first trip PuttPutt Golfing. Daddy and Tate golfed while Avarie and I supervised
and Avarie kept score.

She also had to take a few rests on the fairways. All that scorekeeping was hard work.

This is going to seem funny to people who live in more comfortable and less critter infested areas, but we got to play in the sandbox. Hot and humid also equals bugs and critters, so we took advantage of this 70 degree morning by getting into the sand.

And, last, a new outing for us - Belle Isle in the James River. My friend Jamie invited the kids and I to join her and her kids to this island in the James River. It is a rocky area of the river (due to a fall line) and is a great outdoor oasis for biking, rock climbing, "hiking" and walking trails. The kids rode bikes, we had a picnic lunch on the rocks and watched everyone swim among the rocks in the slow waters. You can see the city in the background - the colonists settled here because they couldn't sail any further west on the river and then began to build a canal system along the banks of the river in the hopes of getting all the way to the Mississippi. A few miles west and east of this rocky area, the river is wide and smooth with plenty of room for boating, waterskiing, tubing and jet skiing. On the weekends, the river is FULL of people!! It's like a giant beach in the city.

Tate and Luke ready to go exploring

Tate trekking across the big rocks in the river. We had a great (and adventurous) day with our friends. We'll have to come back another day and swim in the river.

Despite some of my complaints, this really is a great place to live and neat city full of history and fun things to do.

Hope summer is happy wherever you are too!

Cowabunga!

2008-07-28T15:52:00.000-07:00

Tate is swimming like a fish this summer and took his first leap off the diving board. He took lessons in June and has been working really hard on swimming all by himself. He has been doing great in the shallow end, where he can only touch right by the stairs, and he is proud as punch! So last weekend, he said he was ready to go off the diving board. Derek and I encouraged him to practice a few minutes without his goggles, and without an adult to catch him. He assured us that he was ready and didn't need any more practice. Mom took a deep breath, "Ok . . . "

We walk over, Derek starts to climb down the ladder into the dive well, so that he could be there if necessary. Mom is getting the camera ready, Avarie is in the stroller pointing, "My Tate." Dad gets in, Mom has the camera . . . too late - Tate's already made a splash! Needless to say, he was happy to do it a few more times so we could take some pictures. So, the first picture is acutally his 2nd jump off the diving board :)

Now, we have to take time to go off the diving board every day at the pool, which is a bit challenging to keep Avarie safe (occupied) while Tate jumps and swims. We have so much fun every week at the pool!

Summer Road Trip to Mike and Lindsey's Wedding

2008-07-22T05:55:00.000-07:00

Mike and Lindsey Museousky~July 11, 2008

The Drive~What a great reason for a road trip! We packed the kids up early and drove through Virginia, West Virginia, Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, and Missouri the first day, ending on the west side of St. Louis for the night. The next day we had a short trip across Missouri and into Kansas. Tate loved hearing what state we were in and asked about every river we crossed. The kids were FANTASTIC in the car. Derek got to visit Cabela's in Kansas City before we met up with everyone at the hotel. On the way home, it RAINED almost the whole way, but the kids were troopers again. I wish I had a picture of them with their headphones on in the back seat. It's sad to say they probably watched more TV in those days than they have all summer, but they were happy and quiet. It is a really pretty drive ~ very green and hilly, and the mountains in western Virginia and West Virginia are so different than the mountains in Colorado. It was certainly less expensive than flying and no lugging car seats, rental cars, delayed flights, etc etc.

The Wedding and Family Fun~We were so lucky to share in the celebration for the wedding of Mike and his new wife, Lindsey, in Kansas City on July 11. Mike is one of the triplets and their wedding was a great chance for us to see ALL the Kansas cousins for a few days. Everyone from Wichita, and my dad and Kay, and my Uncle Jack's family from Pennsylvania were all there. It has been 3 years since we have seen most of them so we had a great time. My Aunt Mary Jo did great planning and we all had rooms on the same floor and a hospitality suite in the middle so we were able to get lots of time together. We always have such a fun time with them and there's lots of laughs and happy memories to share.
Tate was thrilled to meet so many new cousins and had a great time playing with Nick, Cole, Christian (the Bright boys), Sarah (Jill's oldest daughter), Zachary and Michael (Russ and Jen's boys), Connor and Lauren (Rachel's kids). We had a delicious dinner at Brio for the rehearsal dinner in a great outdoor mall part of Kansas City. We shopped, played and ate some delicious Kansas City BBQ with Papa and Nana on Friday before the wedding. The wedding was Friday night and was a perfect ceremony then dinner and dancing at the country club nearby. Our kids were some of the youngest cousins but they were party animals both nights. At the reception, Derek and I had to scoop them off the dance floor at 11:30 to leave. We had been sitting while they danced! We all had a GREAT time! Congratualtions, Mike and Lindsey!

The Mattila family after the ceremony

Mattilas and Papa and Nana

Mattilas and Brights (Chris, Chris, Nick, Christian and Cole)

Danicng machines - Tate, Avarie and mommy

Fourth of July

2008-07-19T08:23:00.000-07:00

Yes, it was a few weeks back, but just haven't gotten to sitting long enough to update.

We had a quiet holiday weekend with a little pool time, a little neighborhood parade, and a barbecue with friends. The parade was in a nearby neighborhood and we went with some friends from My Gym - Evan, Brennan and Olivia and their families. The kids were thrilled to catch candy from the various Boy Scout troops, local politicians, and convertibles. The best was when someone dressed as Uncle Sam came by and Tate shouted, "Santa Claus!" The kids played and ate, the adults laughed, the food was great - what more could you ask for? Avarie was working on a nasty sinus infection so she was not up for fireworks, but Tate and daddy went over to the causeway on the reservoir and fished and watched the fireworks. I was quite happy with the Washington, DC fireworks on TV - no bugs, no bug spray, no hoomidity, AC and a cocktail on the couch - need I say more? I only have a few pictures - it's hard to be the photographer now that Avarie is walking (running).

Hope you had a great holiday wherever you were too!

Avarie Sue - We love you!

2008-06-22T18:41:00.000-07:00

Well, in my ongoing effort to either pay for therapy or college education for my children, Avarie made her opinion known about the fact that her brother got his own posting about all the great things he can do. She wanted you to know about all the great things she can do, too! So, here's her latest and greatest . . .

She can eat "cheerios papa" from a bowl with a spoon and milk without dumping the whole thing for the dogs. This is an important accomplishment for her, because she hates the dogs and throwing food on the floor results in the dogs stampeding out to clean it up. (Remember what I said about therapy?)

She can play hide and seek in the dining room curtains. Those darn pink shoes sure do give it away, huh?

And, best of all, she started taking a few steps here and there a few days before my birthday. And, just like we predicted, she was holding out on walking until she could run (or at least a 16 month old version). She is now toddling all over the place and is proud as punch of it. Tate says that she is "wicked fast" and is great at keeping up with her. Tate has also given her a new nickname - Sas - like a sassy sister. We had been calling her "Little" since she was born, and she isn't so little anymore, but she is quite sassy.

Here's a clip of Sas with her walking feet! Way to go, Avarie Sue!!!

Strawberry Picking

2008-06-16T05:42:00.000-07:00

We took a field trip to Chesterfield Berry Farm a few weeks ago to enjoy some berry pickin'. It is a HUGE farm about 10 minutes from our house that can drain our wallets every season with fresh produce and fun for the kiddies. They know how to make the kids happy with jumpy castles, petting zoo, wagon trains, hay rides and strawberry canons. After all the fun and animals, we finally convinced Tate that we should head out to the patch for some strawberries.

I have never seen so many strawberries! This was the first time we had been, but from what other people were saying, this is one of the best years EVER! My neighbor had told me she picked like 30 pounds of berries and I couldn't understand. As you can see, with that many berries on the plants, it's not hard. Tate and Derek filled up the boxes while I held Avarie, who still wasn't walking.

When I couldn't hold Miss 27 Lbs anymore, I set her down and she lit up with happiness! She thought we brought her to the buffet and let out a loud "Mmmmmmmm! Dat!" as she pointed to all the berries. She and Tate ate and ate and ate and we picked a picked and picked.

I think we ended up with about 20 pounds of berries, but I think they should have weighed my kids and charged me by the pound for them too.

It was a great day and we enjoyed strawberry pie, strawberries with yummies (sugar and half and half), and even froze some. We can't wait for the other farm near by to be ready for blueberry picking!

Master Tate

2008-05-28T12:35:00.000-07:00

Well, in case you hadn't heard, kids grow up way faster than you think they will. Our recent proof is in Master Tate Jackson and his many amazing talents. He has added chocolate fountain expert to the list, as illustrated on Mother's Day at brunch at The Boathouse. It may look like he's auditioning for the chubby cheeked version of The Cure or Fall Out Boy, but it's just a huge marshmallow dipped in yummies!

Next up, he's finally able to drive the red mustang by himself . . . without running over your toes, the curb, or the neighbor's lawn. He's gotten so good that I've allowed him to take Avarie with him. Of course, she giggles with delight and she's in charge of the music (which is a little questionable for something manufactured by Fisher Price).

And, last but not least, he's a budding artist! Becoming an artist is on his short list of "when I grow ups" and he's well on his way after his Spring Art Show at preschool. They sang a few songs and had their art on display around the gym for us to enjoy while we ate dinner together. My teacher friends will appreciate the "Product for Parents," and I love every last bit of it, especially because his teachers always tell me he has to do something to his project to make it different than everyone else's, hee hee. (Well, I guess I hope his teachers never read this blog now.)

Our Annual May Colorado Trip

2008-05-12T14:23:00.000-07:00

Avarie and Nana
Avarie, Tate, Hudson and Hailey - Avarie tore off Flat Stanley's head
Tate on the carousel
Avarie and Mommy at the Hooding Ceremony

(Sorry this is so long - but we did A LOT while we were there!)

When we moved to Virginia, we knew we would make trips back to Colorado to visit. But a trip in May has now become an annual event. And we couldn't be happier about it!

The big event to travel for this year was Kelly's graduation from Regis with her doctorate in physical therapy. (Kelly is Davin's girlfriend of a few years now.) We knew her graduation would take place in May and decided to make a nice long trip out of it.
We made the long drive to Ridgway as soon as we landed and got all the necessities. Derek was convinced that it would be best to just go for it all in one day - up at 5 in Virginia, two plane rides, rent a car, stop and pick up baby items at the Mattila's, and a 6 hour drive to Ridgway. I wasn't so sure, but we made it. Although we got in late, we were up and ready to go to church with my dad and Kay the next morning. We had been anxious to go with them and meet their Pastor Jo Ann, who is a high school colleague of my mom's. (Yes, that is a crazy small world, I know.) Avarie slept in the car, but Tate really enjoyed the singing and getting to color a picture that looked just like the goregeous stained glass in the church. The next day we went to visit the Lipton's farm. Kay had sent us pictures of the brand new baby calves, and it was so neat to see them up close. Tate had a blast feeding the horses, throwing rocks in the irrigaton ditch, and riding the tractor with Carol. What more could a little boy ask for? But wait, on the way home, we stopped to pick up eggs. . . right out of the hen house. Tate was able to get the eggs right out from under a hen and they were still warm. We did feel a little bad that he wasn't able to eat any of them, but he understood. The kids had fun playing blocks, and watching Papa drive his train around the train room. Both kids were mesmerized by their cat, Claire. Avarie even learned to say "cat" and "meow," which is amazing because so far everything with fur and ears has been a DOG. It's always so relaxing and beautiful there! Thanks Papa and Nana!
We decided that we would make a two day trip back to Denver and stop in Grand Junction to see the Himes family. The twins were only a few weeks old when we met them last year. This year they are walking and talking and watching the four kids together was a blast. We had a great dinner at the Ale House and enjoyed an afternoon and evening of catching up. Hudson didn't feel well in the morning, and I hear Hailey didn't do too well after that, so we left them to rest and headed back to Denver.
Back in Denver, we did our usual hurry scurry of visits. We got to see Ally, Ella and Deegan and take a ride on the carousel with them. We visited the Delisa family and met their new baby sister Isabella (absolutely darling). Watching Joseph, Andrew and Tate was hilarious! I got to visit with Kay Christie and Candy while I got my hair cut. The kids and I went to Sierra to visit for a few hours. It was great to see all my old teammates and fellow teachers - I miss them all so much!!! My former students streamed in to visit and made me realize how much time has gone by since I taught first grade there - my first group of first graders are now 6th graders. It was great to see everyone there and they made me feel like I had never left. I got to catch up with the ladies in the old neighborhood - lots of laughs and good stories! I always feel like I can't fit in all the visits I want to and there are always people I wish I could have seen or spent more time with. So, if I missed you on this visit, I'm sorry and know that I wish I could stay longer every time I'm there!
Kelly's hooding ceremony was on Friday afternoon. Derek had already planned his annual fishing trip to Elk Trout, but the kids and I went with Grandma, Grandpa, Auntie Amy, Uncle Davin, and Kelly's family. The kids did great during the ceremony - thanks to some Star Wars figures I keep stashed in my "Mary Poppins Bag." (Kelly always teases me that Mary Poppins must have upgraded to Kate Spade. Hee Hee!) It was a great ceremony and what an accomplishment for Kelly! Derek thought he would be back to join us for dinner at the DAC, but the blizzard in the mountains closed I-70 and he didn't make it back. (I guess we have forgotten what spring in the Rockies can be like.) Gene cooked a fantastic lunch for all of us and Kelly's family on Saturday. Tate loves to be at Grandma and Grandpa's - especially because every time he comes Grandpa has improved his sandbox for him. It started as a pile of sand in the rocks, and now it's a full box with all the toys. What a special treat!
Both kids (and adults) were great travelers all around. Avarie wowed all of us by sleeping through the night in the Pack n Play. We had a great visit!!!
I put most of the pictures on Shutterfly - http://www.familymattila.shutterfly.com/ with the password mattila. We had Christian Bright's Flat Stanley with us, so you will see him in a few pictures too. Enjoy!

How old are you? Almost 5!

2008-04-10T11:25:00.000-07:00

No, you aren't counting wrong, Tate only turned 4 a few weeks ago. But this was his response to everyone when they asked how old he was. As you can see in the pictures, we even tried dressing him in a shirt with a big 4 on it so he would remember. No such luck!

Although he's almost 5, Tate celebrated a wonderful 4th birthday on March 27th! On his actual day, the weather was a GOREGEOUS 80 so we played at the park with best buddy Grant. They hung like monkeys, and threw sticks to the ducks. "Why don't they get the sticks, mommy? What's wrong duckies? Eat sticks, it's my birthday!" I don't know whether to plan ahead next time and bring bread, or enjoy his frustration that the ducks won't be bossed around, birthday or not. Oh well! That evening, we went to our favorite pizza place and then opened a few presents when we got home. Legos are HUGE at our house right now, so he was thrilled to have more to build things with and a new box to look at. He loves to build the different things pictured on the box. Another favorite gift - a new Lightning McQueen game for V-Smile. Score!

Sunday March 30th, we saddled up and had a farm party at our house. Tate settled on a few friends from preschool (not the whole class and town of Moseley as he wanted) and we planned a big barnyard bash with hayrides, games, treats and more. A friend and coworker of Derek's loaned us a tractor and hay; ebay and Pottery Barn Kids supplied everything that I wasn't creative enough to think of myself, and we were all set for the big day! Well, not so fast, 80 degrees on Thursday transformed to 40 and rainy by Sunday. So the pictures may look like we had a WWE party for 4 year olds, but I assure you there were farm games, crafts, and a few hay rides! All in all, it was a great day and I think all the boys had fun. Ally convinced me that I could make a beautiful cake creation just like her. "No, you don't need to go to the class. It will be fine. I promise!" I did it, it just took 2 and a half hours to frost that tractor cake. But, I'm hooked and already asking around for when I can make another one. A BIG thanks to the Bickford family for coming back from Spring Break early to celebrate and so Rick could be our photographer, THANK YOU!
So, there is a new album with TONS of pictures at http://www.familymattila.shutterfly.com/
Up next . . . a trip to Denver!

Happy Easter!

2008-03-30T13:09:00.000-07:00

Hippity, hoppity - the Easter Bunny found his way to Kipper Turn. There were eggs everywhere! Tate scurried all over in is jammies, and snacked along the way. Poor Avarie barely got a chance to pick up even one, so she just parked herself by the basket and worked on getting the candy out instead. (That's my girl!) Mr. E.B. also left bountiful baskets of goodies - games, sidewalk chalk, and new spring clothes. We enjoyed a quiet day at home and Derek made a FANTASTIC dinner of ham, scalloped potatoes, carrots and fruit. Yummmmmm!

More pics at www.familymattila.shutterfly.com Don't forget the password - mattila

The cousins are coming!!!

2008-03-24T16:04:00.000-07:00

The cousins at the WWII Memorial

We got the call from the cousins that they wanted to come visit during their Spring Break and we couldn't wait!!! Tate walked around chanting "The cousins are coming, the cousins are coming" for the whole week. Funny, because we haven't seen them since he was about 20 months old, before we moved.

Before they came, we had a few other fun things to do - like fly a KITE and learn to bowl on the Wii. Tate received a kite from Uncle Davin last year, but we just hadn't gotten it out. So, I opened my big mouth on a super windy day and out we went. You can see in the pictures that it was going great, Mommy got it up a few times then Daddy really got it going. Tate was fetching it when it fell, and we would put it up again. Until . . . UH OH! Big boom and that ended the blissful family fun. Tate ran home crying that Daddy had ruined his kite and he never liked flying kites ANYWAY! So there!

The pictures of Tate bowling on the Wii don't really do it justice. The kid is crazy! He bowled a 175 the other night! He doesn't want any help, he rolls it "granny style" but it works for him. Too funny!

The cousins arrived on Saturday, March 15 after a 19 hour drive. I am so lucky that they were willing to do that long drive. (It used to be an 8 hour drive from Wichita to Denver.) What's more is that it was only (girl) Chris and the boys - WHAT A WOMAN! Tate and the cousins (Nick, 13, and Cole and Christian, 9) had a blast running around, wrestling, chasing, all that boy stuff. Avarie loved watching and trying to keep up. Sunday morning we drove to DC so that they could see some of the sights. I arranged a special day for them by calling in some favors - it was the St. Patrick's Day Parade, and the President flew over in his helicopter and landed at the White House while we were on the mall. Sooo cool!! It was freezing cold and super windy, the cherry blossoms weren't quite open yet, but we braved it long enought to see the White House, the Washington Monument, the World War II Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Korean War Memorial. It was really neat to be there since I haven't been there for over 10 years when I used to visit my aunt and uncle and cousins who lived near DC. The World War II Memorial was new and was very moving - definately worth a trip. We drove to Arlington and walked up to see the Kennedy's graves, and then to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Although we were all tired and cold, it was a great day. Poor Christian wanted to see the museums but we couldn't fit it in. Chris did take them back later in the week to see a bit of the Smithsonian. We also made a trip to Williamsburg, which I don't think they thought was quite as cool, but they'll understand the significance someday. I thought Chris was going to kill me one night when I told the boys they could decorate a gingerbread house for Easter (long story). They created quite a masterpiece - jelly beans, marshmallows, chicks, and ducks, peeps and poops (Hershey's kisses). Derek said the house had some serious bird issues!

We had a great visit - lots of laughs and only a few fits by the kids (or adults)! Haha!

There are pictures on our Shutterfly page www.familymattila.shutterfly.com you just have to enter mattila as the password.

Avarie's 1st Birthday

2008-03-02T15:41:00.000-08:00

I feel like every month flies by faster than the last one. At least this month felt faster, but there were only 29 days, right?

We started the month off by having tubes put in Avarie's ears to ease her ear infections. It was quick and easy (for us), and not too bad for her either. She was a trooper and is like a new baby now! Happy and comfortable at night again! That's happiness for all of us. Now we are all counting down to the end of cold and flu season here - only a few weeks to go!

Tate celebrated Valentine's Day at preschool on the 13th with a party, treats and a bag full of cards. We made cards with paint and a foam meat tray - very crafty for me! He wrote his name on all 24 cards, and one of his little Valentines was convinced that he had made a special one just for her with pink paint. Too cute! He loved opening all the cards when he got home. He's become quite the little artist, drawing mommy all kinds of pictures including a dishwasher that "transforms" into a house. Today he was using every marker he could find to draw balloons just how he wants them at his birthday party. Soon enough!

Valentine's Day quickly left us as we now have a birthday to celebrate in February - Avarie Sue turned 1 on February 18. We had planned to have Ally here and have a little get together with some neighbors here, but Ally got sick and didn't make it and our neighbors kids' got the flu. So, it was a family dinner with Derek's delicious roast, chocolate cake and homemade ice cream! She opened her 4 presents we bought her, and was happy as could be! On Monday, her actual birthday, she and Tate went to My Gym for class where we sang to her and she smiled and clapped along.

Tate is finally realizing that Avarie is going to be trouble once she starts walking. He used to escape her on the stairs, but Derek taught her to do those, so now she's right behind him. We tried putting things out of reach on the coloring table and on the couch, but now she can reach those. She cruises around the couch and tables. Those first steps could come any day! In the mean time, they are so happy together and love camping in Tate's tent in the living room. I heard Tate tell her in the tent the other day, "Avarie - you are my bestest buddy and sister." Melt my heart!

Here's a link to some pics from this month - http://community.shutterfly.com/gallery/post/start.sfly?postId=/gallery/1/post/GMGDFg0bNWzJm3YA8Ostgc

I understand from a few of you that those pictures were tough to see (too small) so here's another link to a new place I'm storing pictures to share. You have to type in mattila as the password. http://www.familymattila.shutterfly.com

The daffodils are up here so we are sending spring cheer to all our family and friends!

Must be winter . . .

2008-01-30T10:51:00.001-08:00

Well, the cold season finally found us! Since my last posting, it has been one thing after another - ear infections for Avarie, then croup for both of them - with only a few days to breathe in between each. All in all, it isn't so bad and Tate's asthma and overall health seems to really be improving. The allergist even said that he may be ready for an inhaler this spring; that would be heaven to replace the 15 minute nebulizer sessions. Avarie and her ears however are a different story. After two infections that have each lasted 6 to 8 weeks and been stubborn to several rounds of antibiotics, the pediatrician recommended that we see an ENT who recommended that she have tubes put in. Hopefully that will take place next week and then we will see some improvement. Derek and I have managed to avoid their colds for the most part, which is good since we rotate who gets up with them!

Other than the health challenges, everyone continues to grow before our eyes and amaze us with new things everyday. Tate has finally settled down at school and is LOVING all the things he is learning. Today he got to wear his pajamas to school and have hot cocoa. He loves to count on the calendar and even has his own calendar in his room that he has written important happenings on - he'll keep me in line as to what's going on each week! Derek and I feel like he has an ever expanding vocabulary; he even told me on one trip to the doctor for Avarie that he was "exhausted" of her being sick! Oh boy!

Avarie is a speed demon on her hands and knees and, for that reason, seems to be in no rush to walk. (Thank goodness!) She loves to do ANYTHING her big brother is doing - play hot wheels, trains, legos, blocks, and wrestle with daddy and Tate. I'm afraid a pretty princess she will never be! She has a few words - Tate (Tat), Dada, Mama, dog, and the ever present UH OH! We are thankful everyday for the two of them and, as we tell them, "We are so glad they came to live at our house!"

Two sick kids, Circuit City budget time and the daily grind haven't left much time for other adventures. You can see in the picture, we did celebrate Derek's 33rd birthday with a cake Tate and I made. Derek went to San Diego for our friend Dan's wedding and then to Las Vegas for CES in January. I have been busy helping to plan the community social events for the spring. We spent a weekend finishing a few projects in Tate's room (poor kid - it only took 2 years!) and now mommy just needs to paint some details. We went to Washington DC for the Auto Show and a driving tour of some sights. Derek still has not been there for the tourist attractions, but he says at least now he's seen the White House, Washington Monument, Capitol, and Petagon. Maybe this spring as it gets warmer we can make it up there again for a longer visit.

We hope all our friends a family around the country and globe are well. Leave us a comment and let us know you were here!

Colorado - SNOW and Graduation

2007-12-24T12:31:00.001-08:00

As I said at the end of my last blog entry, we were off to Colorado for a wintry vacation on December 12. I was a little nervous about traveling to snowy places after watching the horror last year in Colorado in December. I know that doesn't happen often, but I wasn't interested in being stuck anywhere. Luckily, we made it there and back with no problems.

Wednesday evening we drove to Beaver Creek to meet my dad and Kay for a few days of relaxation at the The Pines Lodge. We took Tate over to ski school early Thursday morning and got him all set up for a lesson. We thought we would relax at the hotel until it was time to watch them ski. That only lasted until the front desk called to say they had wrecked our car in valet. I hate it when Derek's face is white because if he's worried, I better be freaking out. It wasn't as bad as we thought, but it makes you want to think twice about that additional insurance they offer.

When we finally made it back over to the ski area, the kids were just coming out. I shed a few tears of joy when Tate came out in his little ski suit and helmet and teeny tiny boots! Kay and I just giggled with delight at all of them!!! The ski school had advised us to try to remain incognito so the kids wouldn't get sad and want to leave. So we looked kind of goofy with our hoods up and long lens cameras - like paparazzi at the 3 year old ski school! They practiced running down the hill in their boots, and then with one ski and then finally with two skis. After watching for a while, Tate figured out who we were and told us he wanted to stay longer. Great - he can stay for lunch and more fun, now we just have to make sure all the food is safe and then we can head out again.

When we came back to watch the afternoon ski session, Tate was DONE! They were all getting very tired, and we weren't in good enough hiding so Tate spied us and began crying to leave. Oh great - now we ruined it. He made his last few times down the hill in tears, but still told us he had fun and wanted to try again while on the bus back to the hotel. After naps, we found some great Mexican food (which Derek and I long for as much as snow!) and margaritas. Friday morning it was snowing which makes for an interesting drive in the Colorado mountains, so we all headed out early. Tate has asked several times when we can go again, so maybe we'll be back out to try again! All in all, we had a great time enjoying Papa and Nana.

Since the drive wasn't too bad, we made it back in time for me to surprise a few former colleagues at Sierra Elementary. I had a short visit with my teammates, but it was great to be in that school again and catch up with them for a few minutes. If I hadn't had Avarie on my hip, it would have felt like I never left and it would have been like a typical Friday afternoon - tired and ready for the weekend. Gosh I miss those girls - Hi Kris!!!!

Saturday we met Chuck, Colleen, Kay, Bill and Will for breakfast at Wild Oats. We had a great time catching up and laughing. Tate was thrilled to have an audience and Avarie let Kay hold her while I ate my breakfast. That left us enough time to get changed and head up to Fort Collins for Amy's graduation ceremony. We got to see Amy's apartment and her new puppy. Tate found all kinds of fun things to play with and we didn't have to worry about him breaking anything in a college apartment. The best part was when Tate said he was hungry and Amy opened the cabinet and told him she had Corn Flakes but they were her roommates. We all laughed but Tate was a little concerned at Auntie Amy's bare cupboards. He has a lot to learn before he goes to college, right? It was a great ceremony and we enjoyed a celebration with family and friends afterwards. Congratulations, Amy!!!

Avarie, who does not enjoy our dogs at all, did surprisingly well with the Mattila dogs and even sat and opened presents on Sunday. She was more interested in what Tate opened, much to Tate's dismay. They got to play with Grandma, Grandpa, Uncle Davin and Auntie Amy who all spoiled them with attention and new toys.

It was a quick trip that didn't allow us to see everyone we wanted to see. Avarie complicated that even more by not sleeping through the night once while we were gone. We did get to sneak a visit in to Ally's house and got time to play with Ella, Deegan and Mike. That was great since I hadn't seen her for a year and a half! The kids had a great time together and I can't wait to see her again!

Now we're home and counting down until Christmas. Take a look at these picture from Colorado.

Sorry, some are repeats from the last entry.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/16970203@N02/sets/72157603427658407/show/

To all our loved ones far away, we send warm wishes for a Merry Christmas!

New Holiday Traditions - Elf Visitor and "Activity" Scene

2007-12-10T07:19:00.000-08:00

Christmas is just around the corner and we are anxiously decorating, shopping and wrapping. Of course, Tate can hardly contain himself with the anticipation of Santa's arrival. He counts down every day on our Snowman Countdown. He's singing all his favorite Christmas songs while Avarie bounces along. You are only allowed to sing along if you sing it his way, his words. Derek and I love to listen to him practice his songs for his preschool production every night through the baby monitor. I don't know if his teachers are happy or sad that he won't be there for the actual production - he does know all the words, but you probably can't hear the other children singing. That's Tate!

We have had an Elf visting us, sent by Santa himself. He arrived a few weeks ago and Tate has named him Harrison. He is our Elf on the Shelf and he is here to watch Tate and Avarie and then report back to Santa every night. Harrison has brought little treats, made a few messes and has found all sorts of crazy places to hide. You can see a few of them in the pictures. Tate is not so sure about the whole thing, too smart for his own good. Despite the fact that the story said the elves can't talk and you can't touch them, Tate has been heard telling Harrison to "count to ten" and that "if I could reach you, I would touch you." Of course, he has also been heard apologizing to Harrison when he's had a bad day and pointing out presents he would like in the catalogs. We hope that Harrison gives enough good reports that Santa will want to visit us on Christmas Eve.

Another new tradition at our house is the Nativity Scene that Papa and Nana left us when they visited in November. It is a darling set, made of wood, almost like the old Fisher Price Little People. Tate calls it the "Activity" Scene, and enjoys moving everyone around every few days. Avarie has tried to reach it on the coffee table but her big brother is much too smart and has moved it way to the back so she can't reach. Poor Avarie - foiled again!

We still have a few weeks until Christmas and will squeeze in a few more holiday activities including the Tacky Lights Tour, the Christmas Performance at the Zoo, and baking and wrapping. We got some snow last week and we are headed to Colorado to get our fill of snow on Wednesday. Amy is graduating from CSU so we will take an extended weekend and meet my dad and Kay in Beaver Creek and spend the weekend with Derek's family. This will be Tate's first time skiing so check back for those pics!!

Here's some pictures ~ http://www.flickr.com/photos/16970203@N02/sets/72157603427658407/

Off to see the world . . .

2007-11-13T14:33:00.000-08:00

Only a few weeks have passed since Halloween, but we have had tons of fun!

Papa and Nana (my dad and Kay) came to visit the first week in November. Tate always has all kinds of things he wants to do with them. (So do I!) We started off with a bang and made a Gingerbread House with Nana on Tuesday morning. All three of us got a little messy, and it was easy not to taste the icing because it was like glue, but we were quite happy with our little creation. It looked very similar to the picture on the box! Tate had a hard time not touching it when it was finished, so he has been enjoying it while it sits on top of the pie-safe. Thursday we went on an adventure to the National Aquarium in Baltimore. We took a slight detour and saw more of DC than we had planned, but we got to Baltimore in time to have lunch at Panera and spend a few hours at the aquarium. It was our first visit and we were very impressed - lots to see - all kinds of fresh and saltwater fish, sharks, turtles, alligators, rays, and dolphins. The docent told a disappointed Tate that they didn't have any whales, but that he could go to the aquarium in Georgia to see one. Needless to say, Tate now has another trip planned. We battled the DC traffic on the way home, but the kids, and adults, were real troopers in the car. We also made time for a few car rides to look at the fall colors. It is so beautiful here in the fall. Unfortunately, I think they missed the peak, beacause I took some pictures today and the colors are much more vibrant this week! Oh well, it was a great visit and we are so lucky that we get to see Papa and Nana again in just a few weeks!

I told Kay before they came that Avarie was about to crawl; she was scooting around on her belly. With all our running around I didn't think Avarie would get it together while Papa and Nana were here, but she finally got it figured out on Saturday morning. It was really fun to see - but now not so fun to chase around! Oh my! She is still a bit slow, but determined and can certainly find her way to any stack of Christmas catalogues or pile of toys that Tate doesn't want her to have. I think the stand up jail will be our only hope this holiday season! She is very busy and has also said her first word - "Uh oh!" That's what Tate and I say all the time when she's into something else! What's scarier still is that she is already pulling up to her knees at the lego table, train table and coffee table and also tries to push up from her belly, in a "downward dog" type move. Please let us make it through 2007 with just crawling!

I love to read your comments. We miss you all and send wishes for a Happy Thanksgiving!

Here is a link to pictures of the gingerbread house, Avarie crawling and some fall colors. Enjoy!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/16970203@N02/sets/72157603193412482/

October - Halloween already?!

2007-10-31T11:50:00.000-07:00

When I created our blog, I thought I'd be able to update it at least every few weeks. Well, October got away from me! Derek was gone three weekends and two whole weeks, so that added a bit of excitement. He was in New Orleans for a week with Circuit City and Wyclef (youtube link to come later) and then he went to Tokyo and Seoul for a week to visit factories. We all missed him and Tate asked everyday, "What time Daddy gets home?" Now he knows the days of the week and was eagerly counting down to Daddy's return each time.

The kids and I have been busy about town, around the house and to the doctor's office. Although it took a long time for the fall temperatures to arrive in Richmond, the fall colds arrived in October. Happily, Tate almost fended his off by himself but needed no asthma treatments!!! Avarie has battled an ear infection for most of the month and finally had 4 injections of Rosephin to try to kick it. We're keeping our fingers crossed. In the big scheme, I can handle the run around to each of their doctors offices; it could be worse.

Tate has been a big help around the house cleaning out closets for Mommy's ebay sales. He helps me find the items and then package them up. His favorite is putting the stickers on the package. It has been a great way for me to stay busy and earn a little spending money for shopping on ebay. So far, I've made enough to buy Avarie's car seat, and snow gear for the kids for our Colorado trip in December. October has also included trips to art class, the zoo, and Tate's new favorite, the LIBRARY. He loves to pick out books and can't wait for Daddy to read them at night. Avarie is still a happy tag along, for the most part. She is 8 months old already and is ready to crawl. She easily pivots and scoots around on her belly, but then fusses because she can't roll over to her back. Tate has learned the hard way that she will scoot over to whatever she wants, even a lego tower and coloring books.

Of course, Halloween has also been on our minds. We were very anxious and decorated the house, got some fall plants and pumpkins for outside. Then, it was like summer for most of the month. Tate was wearing his pumpkin shirt with shorts and sandals. It finally cooled down, and got cold, so we bundled up for a parade at preschool and Trick or Treating. Tate dressed up as Dash, from The Incredibles, and Avarie dressed up as a flower. Tate happily filled up his ghost bucket and shared the candy with us at home.

Here's some pictures of the kids this month.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/16970203@N02/sets/72157602815923431/show/

NEW YORK CITY

2007-09-18T04:34:00.000-07:00

We had a great trip to New York last weekend for Derek's cousin Anne-Marie's wedding. We drove the 6 hour trip to the city on Thursday in about 8 hours with stops for food, stretches, diaper changes and potty breaks. We really lucked out with traffic, only having to slow down 2 times, over the Delaware bridge and the Holland Tunnel. Derek drove us right up 8th Ave to our hotel - weaving in and out and tailgating just like a native, or a taxi driver. I was glad he was driving! We met all of Derek's family, aunts, uncles, cousins, many of whom he hadn't seen for 20 years, for the rehearsal dinner on Thursday night.

On Friday morning, Grandpa treated all of us to a bus tour of the city. Tate loved riding on top of the bus and we saw most of Manhattan including the Statue of Liberty from Battery Park, Ground Zero, the Empire State Building, boats at the piers, bridges, and Central Park. It was a great touristy view of the city. Tate's highlight was the Statue of Liberty; Daddy's highlight was seeing Edyta from Dancing with the Stars, although we didn't get a picture. Derek went to the wedding on Saturday night and was in awe of the beautful Catholic church, although his photography didn't do the church any justice. I stayed with the kids until Derek returned from the party, at which time Ms. Avarie decided she would relish her stay in "the city that doesn't sleep" by staying up all night. Needless to say, I made friends with the bellman and concierge in the hotel lobby from 2am until 7am. We were also lucky enough to see Uncle Davin and the cousins come in at around 5am. Good thing we love 'em!

Saturday morning we left the big city to head out to Middletown, NY for a family barbecue at Derek's Uncle Jim and Aunt Linda's house. We had lots of good food and good laughs about the weekend adventures as we enjoyed a beautiful, chilly fall day.

We drove home Sunday through the Pocono Mountains and down through Baltimore. Now we have a new place we want to visit - the Poconos were beautiful. The kids were FANTASTIC on the 8 hour drive home and Derek got to listen to the Bronco game and watch the 2nd half at home. Not too bad for a 4 day weekend!

Click here to see more pictures!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/14051847@N07/sets/72157602136838213/show/

Preschool

2007-09-11T19:19:00.000-07:00

Tate had his first day of 3 year old preschool on Monday, September 10 and was happy, sweaty and tired when I picked him up - he said it was GREAT! After the struggle over what to wear (it wasn't appropriate to wear his new pants and long sleeves since it was 93) he was happy to carry his new backpack that Mary gave him and see his buddies. He said they sang songs, played outside and ate a snack. He and Tate C. are thrilled that there are now two Madeline's in his class, but no more Tate's.

(Good thing I took a picture at home - you can see he was in no mood for it at school.)

Pool's Closed - now what?

2007-09-07T18:50:00.000-07:00

Well, this requires some confidence in our friends and family that they will not judge our housekeeping abilities (or disabilities). There was a week in between the closing of the pool and the start of preschool and, even with errands and outings everyday, the playroom took a beating. Check out what can happen when a 3 year old is anxiously awaiting the start of preschool yet it's still too hot to play outside. We affectionately call Tate a "whirling dervish" when a mess like this appears. Avarie contributed in her own way by unloading her 1 basket of baby toys and drooling all over them.

Here's a few pictures of the playroom and of our last day at the pool.

Winding down the summer

2007-08-27T14:28:00.001-07:00

We are having a hard time believing that summer comes to an unofficial end this weekend. Tate has mixed feelings about saying so long to the pool but anxiously awaits the start of preschool next week. We have had a great summer and have managed not to melt in the heat and humidity. We have spent lots of days at the pool (the neighborhood pool and our friend's, the Blom Pool and Spa) and have also found time for Mommy and Me art at Michael's, storytime and weekly classes at My Gym. Avarie has been a great tag along for all of it. Derek and Tate had their first camping trip and a few fishing trips to the reservoir near our house

Avarie is 6 months old already and is sitting up so proudly to watch big brother and mommy and daddy. Tate is almost 3 and a half (he says) and is so proud to tell you all the letters he knows and that he can almost write his name. I just hope he stays out of trouble with his buddy Grant at preschool.

We are headed to New York City for a wedding in September. It will be great to see all of Derek's family, including Great Grandma Setala from Canada. This will be the first time Avarie meets Great Grandma. It should be an adventure since we are driving (about 6 hours) and staying in Manhattan, but we are really looking forward to it. Tate is excited to stay in a hotel, or ho-tayl as he now says after living in Virginia! Uh oh!

That's all for now!