Mama's Boys

Adelaide

2011-10-03T11:38:00.000-07:00

In August, my best girlfriend Jessica, gave birth to her first baby. Adelaide was a healthy 6 lbs., 13 oz and has been blessed with her mother's beautiful eyes and lips. It was wonderful to be there with Jessica for this special time. Now I have someone to buy hair bows and dresses for!

Ready for Fall

2011-09-10T16:06:00.000-07:00

So it's been awhile since I've updated my blog. I just could not get interested in it this summer. We had a wonderful summer that included lots of family coming to visit us, throwing a baby shower for my best girlfriend Jessica, and then a trip to Seattle to be with her while she had her first baby. I'll have to do another post about the baby, because she is BEAUTIFUL - just like her mama!

School is now in full swing again. Aidan has started preschool at a great private Christian school. This school goes through 8th grade and we are seriously considering moving Caleb there in the spring. It would be so convenient to have them on the same campus and we love the idea of them being in a Christian environment while getting a great education.

Caleb is playing fall baseball and learning to play catcher. He is such a little man now! Aidan is learning to play soccer for the first time and would really rather throw the ball instead of kicking it. But more than anything, Aidan loves to put on a batting helmet and follow his big brother all over the practice field.

These are pictures from baseball and soccer practice. Watching them play was a great way to spend our Saturday morning!

Take me out to the ballgame...

2011-03-06T13:47:00.000-08:00

Caleb's little league season has officially begun. Chris is coaching Caleb's team this year and loves it. It is great for Chris because it gives him something other than work to focus on and it gives him and Caleb some really good time together. Aidan is taking it hard though. He just doesn't understand why he can't go onto the field and play. Since Chris is coaching, Aidan does get to go practice with the team. It makes his day! Caleb is playing pitching machine again this year, but will most likely move up to farm next year. It's much more competitive in farm, so I'm glad we have one more season of just playing for fun.

Future Sea Dog

Being 6 & 7 yr. olds, they decided to use their gloves as masks.

Almost home!

A great first game

Now if we can just hold on until our Dodgers start playing. We love baseball season!

Aidan-isms

2011-01-04T22:03:00.000-08:00

I thought I should do a bit of an update on Aidan before I forget everything. He's 2 1/2 and I know in less than 6 months he will change a lot. Here are some things going on with Aidan right now:

He loves anything with wheels-particularly trains and trucks.
He leaves off the 's' when the word starts with an 's'. He's very worried about things being scary, so it's adorable when he asks, "Mama, is it cary?" or "My movie is kipping!"
He adores his big brother, but at times still tries to hit or bite him. Luckily, this has not been a problem at preschool!
He's almost ready for potty training. I hope.
He's a bit of a Daddy's boy at the moment.
Loves puzzles.
Absolutely addicted to candy. We moved the halloween candy to the top of the cabinet and I walked into the kitchen to find him standing on top of the counter with the cabinet door open. He used the knobs on the drawers below to climb up.
Doesn't like rules/structure. Complete opposite of Caleb!
He is a wonderful sleeper/napper.
Loves for us to rock and sing to him at bedtime
Wakes up singing twinkle, twinkle little star. This past Sunday I woke up to him laying in his bed yelling, "5, 4, 3, 2, 1-HAPPY NEW YEAR!"
He loves church - especially the singing. He gets out a song book and starts clapping.
He's still really tiny. He'll be 3 in May and still only weighs about 27 pounds.
Has an extremely loud voice for such a small body. I'm glad our neighbors know us well. He screams so loud when he throws a tantrum, that I'm afraid they might call child services.
He loves going to school. His favorite friends are James and Joshua.
Pretty much speaks in full sentences, although I believe his favorite word right now is No! or Mine!
Caleb calls him the little tornado.
Overflowing with energy and personality!

Aquarium

2011-01-01T21:52:00.000-08:00

Last Thursday night we decided to make a quick trip to The Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach. It's a small aquarium, which is perfect if you have a two year old with very little patience. Luckily, Chris was able to leave work early to join us.

Aidan was initially more interested in the train left over from Christmas.

My crazy boys

Caleb petting a stingray

Aidan cared nothing about petting the stingray. He preferred just splashing the water.

Driving the boat in the play area

Christmas 2010

2010-12-27T22:10:00.000-08:00

So the week of Christmas, the Frost family was hit with a stomach virus. All the plans I had of baking and playing with the kids went out the window. Instead, the boys and I spent several days on the couch hoping and praying it would end quickly. It did not. Needless to say, we've seen better Christmases. Thankfully, we did not have travel plans and were just able to take it easy.

Today we all felt much better and were able to play outside and enjoy our beautiful weather. I was the lucky recipient of a great new camera for my Christmas gift and couldn't wait to try it out with the boys. I have a lot to learn about using my camera and am looking forward to taking some classes to try and figure it out. Thank goodness I have no desires to become a professional photographer!

Here are some new pictures of my sweet kiddos.

Aidan's Christmas Program

2010-12-18T10:16:00.000-08:00

This past week, Aidan had his first preschool program. The two year old class sang Jingle Bells and they each had little bells to ring. It was so cute! I knew my little Aidan was on the small side, but I had no idea he'd be the smallest in his class. What he lacks in size, he makes up for in personality and energy!

Caleb also had his program this week, but there were so many people there I couldn't get anywhere close enough for a picture. Caleb was asked to do a speaking/singing part alone this year, but he was just too nervous to accept. We're hoping he'll decide to go through with it if he's asked again next year. He has such a pretty little voice.

We've had a wonderful fall! We have all been busy and I just haven't felt like trying to post it all. We had a fun Halloween that included Lori coming to stay with us, a trip to fabulous San Francisco for Caleb and I, a couple trips to Disneyland and a relaxing Thanksgiving for my little family of 4. The kids are so excited for Christmas, with Aidan asking daily, "is it kwissmiss yet?". We are looking forward to the time off from school and work and hope to see extended family soon after the holidays.

Worn Out

2010-11-03T15:47:00.000-07:00

Poor little Aidan has yet another ear infection. He's completely exhausted today from being up most of the night. I'm so glad he was able to nap today and I couldn't resist taking this picture of him sleeping. Do you think he's just a little attached to his pacifiers?

From the mouth of Aidan

2010-10-20T09:45:00.000-07:00

Two nights ago, I was making a quick dinner for the boys. Aidan was really hungry and therefore, started yelling quite loudly. "Mama, I NEED my dinner. I WANT my sandwich. MAMA, MAMA, MAMA!" He does this frequently and it always gets him into trouble. I went to the table and calmly but VERY firmly told him to stop yelling and please wait. As I walked back into the kitchen I hear him say, "Bubba, Mama not nice to me." Such a little rascal.

My baby is officially a first grader

2010-08-24T18:34:00.000-07:00

Our Not-So-Boring Summer

2010-07-22T17:13:00.000-07:00

I have to admit that at the end of the school year I was a little nervous about how this summer was going to go. I was afraid we'd all be bored out of our minds. Caleb loves the schedule of school and Aidan just loves to go-anywhere and always. Come to find out, I had nothing to worry about. We have spent the summer with lots of family and it's been wonderful. We've been so busy that it feels like I've barely had time to blink and we're already starting to talk about going back to school.

The first family to arrive were my parents. They stayed for 10 days and it was great to just have them here to visit. My mom helped me paint the guest bathroom, we took lots of walks with the kids and my dad and I went to a radio store he was interested in seeing. They were also here to help us celebrate Aidan's second birthday. The time passed so fast! Twice during that time we had Matt (my cousin Lori's husband) stay a night or two with us. He had just moved out here to the bay area and was still waiting for Lori to finish up her teaching job in Alabama. The boys loved having him here.

The next couple of weeks brought Caleb's last day of kindergarten, Aidan's first time at Mother's Day Out and Caleb losing his first two teeth. I had no sadness when Caleb started kindergarten. I was so excited for him and knew that he would love all of the new challenges. Caleb's finishing kindergarten was another story. His teacher, Mrs. Connelly was everything and more that we could have wanted for Caleb's first year of school. I'm not sure who was sadder to say good-bye, me or Caleb.

Shortly after my parents left, we made a trip to San Jose to welcome Lori to California and to see their new place. It is so great to have them within driving distance again. They are really close to our kids, and Chris and I love hanging out with them. We feel really lucky that God has sent them our way again.

Two weeks later, Chris' parents, (Nana & Papa to the kids) along with our niece Madeline came for a two week stay. We hadn't seen Madeline in over a year, so it was wonderful to see how she'd grown. Caleb loved having an older kid here to play with and Madeline was really sweet with Aidan. The kids spent lots of time playing games and playing on the Wii. They even talked their Papa into taking them to Universal Studios. Lori also came down and stayed a few days during this time because Matt was on a business trip. Papa volunteered to watch my boys so that we could have a "girl day" complete with pedicures and shopping. Such fun!

Last week, on the spur of the moment, I decided to go (by myself!) to stay with Lori and Matt for the weekend. I got in late Friday night, and we got up bright and early Saturday morning and took the train into San Francisco for the day. They had four other friends that joined us and it was such a great day! We saw Ghiradelli square (with free chocolate samples!), walked up some amazingly steep streets and steps to see Coit tower and then finished the day off with dinner at The Stinking Rose in little Italy (lots of garlic and SO delicious) and a ride on the cable car. I so enjoyed being with adults all weekend and wish Chris could have joined me. By Sunday after church, I was ready to get home to my boys! (And maybe next time I'll remember my camera.)

This week, Caleb has attended Camp Lacy at our local park (thanks, Mimi!). This has given him some fun time with friends from school and has allowed Aidan and me to have some one on one time together.

In one week we will pack up and head to Oklahoma. It's been just over a year since we've been "home" and we are all so excited to get there. We will get to see parents, grandparents, siblings and several aunts, uncles, cousins and old friends. We will return home to California with just one week left before Caleb starts first grade. I love the fall and look forward to all the new things it will bring.

This has been a whirlwind of a summer and I have loved every minute of it. And I was worried we'd be bored!

Blast From the Past

2010-06-03T12:34:00.000-07:00

This almost did me in. I had never seen this video that Lori made. I was digging through some old picture CDs and came across this video of Caleb talking to Lori. Caleb was 2 1/2 or 3 and Lori had come to visit us after we moved back to California from Alabama. Where has the time gone?

Happy Bithday Aidan!

2010-05-14T13:38:00.000-07:00

My baby turns 2 today! What a firecracker this little one is. He definitely keeps us on our toes. Chris looked at me the other night and said, "I think we're going to have our hands full with this one." He is a feisty little man, but is so much fun to be with. Over the last year he has started talking and now repeats everything we say. He sings Twinkle Twinkle Little Star and can count to 10. He's learning his colors and knows the names and sounds of several animals and also loves to dance and play at his Gymboree class. I also have to say that even though he loves and adores his brother and Daddy, he is still a Mama's boy. I wouldn't have it any other way!

Mimi and Grandpa (or PeePaw, as Aidan says) will be here next week, so we are waiting on them to have a little party. We're so glad they are going to be here to share this time with us.

We love you Aidan!

Where was this child's mother?

2010-04-16T20:50:00.000-07:00

In the front seat, enjoying the silence. I should have known he was up to something! What in the world did I do for a good laugh before I had children?

Born Free

2010-04-08T21:33:00.000-07:00

Aidan decided he wanted to do the Wii fit with me. I guess he thought he'd be more comfortable working out without his diaper on.

Party Pictures

2010-04-07T20:41:00.000-07:00

For Caleb's birthday this year we did a bowling party and he chose a Spider-Man cake. (He is crazy about anything to do with superheros!) This is the first party we've had with friends from school and it was lots of fun. Caleb has made many new friends this year and it was wonderful that they could all come celebrate with him. I don't have any pictures of them actually bowling, because that would have required me turning my back while Aidan took off in the other direction. So I took most of the pictures while the kids were stuffing down the pizza. Plus, I wanted to enjoy bowling with the kids! What a fun afternoon!

Two of Caleb's best friends, Miles and Brandon

This little one loves his pizza!

Caleb and Sam. These two became friends two years ago, when they first started preschool.

6 Years Old

2010-03-16T11:55:00.000-07:00

So, today is Caleb's 6th birthday-the time seems to fly faster every year. I can't even put into words what a joy this little guy is. I look forward every night to our one-on-one time and nothing makes me happier than to hear him laughing with Aidan. What a precious little man I have! He's intelligent, loving, inquisitive and so, so funny! We are blessed beyond words.

We had his party last friday, so pictures will follow soon. Happy birthday Caleb Mason-we love you!

Missing Bubba

2010-02-26T13:18:00.000-08:00

This morning when we dropped Caleb off at school, Aidan stopped outside the doors and with his little lip trembling looked back and said "Bubba?". So sad and so sweet! I love that he misses Caleb when he's gone. I'm pretty sure Caleb loves it too.

More zoo

2010-02-22T21:22:00.000-08:00

Here are a couple pictures of Caleb from our trip to the zoo. I didn't realize I had so few of him until I'd already finished the last post. What wonderful little boys we have. They are turning into great friends and it is so fun to watch and listen to them play and laugh together.

Santa Barbara Zoo

2010-02-22T20:57:00.001-08:00

Last weekend we loaded the boys up and headed to the Santa Barbara zoo. We have the L.A. zoo that is really close, but it is enormous-too much walking in-between exhibits for two little boys. We have been to the zoo in Santa Barbara before and think it's perfect. It's much smaller and has a lot of open grassy areas to run and play and it also has a great playground. It is only a 90 minute drive, and so pretty. The last half of the drive, the freeway runs right along the ocean. Chris and I love everything about Santa Barbara. We visited there several times before we had kids and hope to continue to go back for family vacations and those rare occasions when its just the two of us.

We all had a bit of cabin fever and last weekend was just what we needed. The boys were on their best behavior and we all had a wonderful time. We finished the weekend off with church on Sunday and our local park that afternoon. Chris was off work on Monday and we spent a lazy day at home. It was the perfect weekend!

Sunday Morning

2010-01-31T14:56:00.000-08:00

These are a couple of pictures of the boys between bible class and church this morning. I only had my cell phone camera, but who cares? I do good to get to church on time (we live an hour away) with all four of us dressed and fed, let alone with my camera. Sunday mornings are always hectic, but we love our church and know it's well worth the drive.

Here are my crazy, but adorable boys.

The latest from Caleb's mouth

2010-01-12T08:40:00.000-08:00

Every night, the boys take their bath together. Last night as I was getting them out of the tub, Caleb says, "You know, Aidan's bottom is the same size as a shaving cream lid." Good to know.

A few more Christmas pictures

2009-12-29T14:00:00.000-08:00

He looks like he's reading the back of the video to decide if it's interesting enough.

Aidan loved the new truck from Mimi and Grandpa!

Caleb opening ANOTHER gift from Mimi and Grandpa. He said, "Mimi & Grandpa sure did send us a bunch of gifts!" He's just a LITTLE spoiled by his grandparents.

Christmas morning

2009-12-29T13:39:00.000-08:00

This Christmas, instead of traveling to Oklahoma, we decided to stay home so that we could start some of our own Christmas traditions with the boys. Although we missed seeing all of our extended families (and the snow!) we had a wonderful, lazy Christmas at home. The boys opened their gifts from Santa, as well as gifts from Chris and I and Mimi and Grandpa. We ate a late breakfast and stayed in our p.j.'s for hours. And because no one was particularly interested in another turkey and stuffing meal (we just did that at Thanksgiving) we went out to dinner at one of our favorite restaurants, Tokyo Waco. What a great day! Here are a few of the pictures from early that morning.

Christmas with Nana & Papa

2009-12-15T15:09:00.000-08:00

The night before last we did our Christmas with Nana & Papa. We opened presents and then went out to dinner. Now that's my kind of Christmas-no dirty dishes! Poor Carolyn (Nana) was under the weather because my kids always seem to get sick before family comes out and then they pass it along to our guests. Thank goodness it's the grandparents that get it, otherwise anyone else might never come back!

More Christmas Pictures

2009-12-15T15:04:00.000-08:00

Christmas party

2009-12-15T14:15:00.001-08:00

Last weekend was Chris' office holiday party. It was at a restaurant in Venice and the food was wonderful. Chris has been at this law firm for a year and we feel blessed every day for this job. The people are wonderful and Chris truly enjoys going to work.

Chris' dad took these pictures before we left. It's been a long time since we've both been dressed up and out to dinner together. Lots of fun!

Nana & Papa come to visit

2009-12-15T14:01:00.000-08:00

Two weeks ago, my in-laws came to visit and we had a great time. We took them and the kids to the Huntington Gardens, had our Christmas with them, went out to dinner and visited non-stop. Chris and I also had his office Christmas party to attend and so it worked out perfectly that they were here to stay with the boys. We had a very busy two weeks, but we were sad to see them go home.

The pictures in this post are from the Huntington. It was a soggy day, but the boys had a blast anyways. I wish I'd been able to get more pictures of the gardens. It is truly a beautiful, peaceful place. However, I had a 19 month old to chase, so I got the few pictures that I could.

2009-12-01T19:25:00.000-08:00

If only I could nap this comfortably...

Our little noise makers

2009-11-21T20:03:00.000-08:00

Chris found the boys playing the piano together tonight. Just be glad it's a picture and not a video with sound. It sounds beautiful to us, but I'm not sure everyone else would agree!

2009-11-04T16:35:00.000-08:00

The latest from Caleb: "Today at school, I was chasing Constance and I think she liked it." Oh, my.

Scary baby

2009-11-03T15:26:00.000-08:00

When Aidan doesn't get what he wants, he's started making a growling sound. This afternoon, Aidan was in Caleb's room with him and was making the growling noise because he wanted Caleb's halloween candy. I overhear Caleb say, "stop growling brother, you're making it scary." How funny that my 17 month old can scare my 5 yr. old!

Not So Baby Anymore

2009-10-27T12:10:00.000-07:00

My baby doesn't look so much like a "baby" these days. He got his first pair of big boy shoes and he's now RUNNING instead of wobbling everywhere he goes. Oh, and he is also able to climb on the furniture and as of this morning has a new boo boo on his head to prove it.

Caleb is afraid of the dark and therefore wraps himself like a mummy to go to sleep. This is how we found him when we went to bed a few nights ago.

Can't get enough of my little Aidan!

2009-10-13T20:33:00.001-07:00

I was sitting at my desk and Aidan opened the drawer and handed me my camera. He then leaned down and acted a bit shy. He's at such a fun age. He's starting to talk a little and is busy, busy, busy! He loves for you to hold him and dance around the kitchen. We have so much fun, but I'm sure worn out by the end of the day (just like most moms).

The lights were dimmed and the picture is a little blurry, but I couldn't resist showing it anyways!

2009-10-08T12:41:00.000-07:00

Here are a couple new pictures of Aidan enjoying a bologna sandwich and Caleb in his muscle pose. I love my boys!

Caleb's new goggles

2009-08-15T15:49:00.000-07:00

Chris bought Caleb some new goggles. (Not even for the pool, mind you. This is just to keep the water out of his eyes on the SLIP AND SLIDE) Our safety-minded, non-risk taker loved them immediately. Chris and I got such a laugh out of the way he chose to wear the strap around his ears. Kids can be such great entertainment.

One more picture

2009-08-13T16:58:00.001-07:00

Aidan and his Papa

Family Time

2009-08-13T16:45:00.000-07:00

Last week, we had lots of fun while Chris' parents and nephew, Trevor came to visit. I didn't get many pictures though, because I'm constantly chasing Aidan and we were way too busy playing anyways! Here are a few of him "helping" his Nana plant some new flowers in our front yard. By the way, he's upset in the one photo because I wouldn't give him the camera to play with.

Lazy Saturday Afternoon

2009-07-26T19:07:00.000-07:00

This was a great relaxing weekend. We didn't really have any plans and it was wonderful! We went for a late lunch at California Pizza Kitchen (Caleb's request) and afterwards we sat outside by the fountain so the kids could play. I love weekends like this!

Happy 1st Birthday, Baby!

2009-05-21T19:56:00.000-07:00

Well, my baby turned 1 just over a week ago and I'm just now getting around to posting about it. The day before his birthday he came down with the stomach bug that Caleb was getting over so he had no desire to celebrate. My parent's were here, so we (tried) to have a little birthday party and he did actually have a little cake. He's now back to normal and enjoying all of the birthday gifts from Mimi and Grandpa.

Aidan is such a funny little guy. He is strong-willed and determined and yet, in an instant, he will cock his head to the side, bat his eyes at you and flirt like crazy. I'm definitely in for a ride with this little man!

Mother's Day

2009-05-11T20:50:00.000-07:00

Chris tried to get some pictures of me and the boys for Mother's Day, but Aidan would not have it. We finally gave up and just took one with Caleb and I. That Aidan is such a little stinker. It's a good thing he's so cute!

Beach fun

2009-04-21T21:58:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday we spent the afternoon at the beach in Santa Monica. We've had really warm, beautiful weather this week, so we packed a picnic and headed west. Chris and the boys played in the water and I had a blast watching and chasing Aidan. The water is freezing so I don't get in unless it's VERY hot out. We had so much fun and look forward to going many more times this summer.

Well, I'm No Melissa Lester

2009-04-14T21:35:00.000-07:00

This was my attempt at zucchini bread. When I went to put it into the oven, I did realize the loaf pan was really full, but I had no idea of the oncoming mess. I'm not a great cook (I'm sure you realized this the moment you saw the picture) but I can usually follow a recipe and do a pretty good job. Not today. And if you think the pan looks gross, you should see the bottom of my oven! Caleb kept asking me if it was going to catch on fire.

I was able to take off the top layer (the rest was still uncooked), put it in a new pan and bake it again. After it was all said and done, it actually still tasted pretty good. Chris just laughed and shook his head. When I'm cooking, nothing surprises him anymore!

I chose this title because I can never in my wildest dreams imagine how Melissa makes such beautiful and delicious food (I've been lucky enough to eat at her house), while keeping up with four kids. I caused this mess with only two children and one of them was napping! She amazes me!

Brotherly Love

2009-04-13T09:54:00.001-07:00

Marley

2009-04-11T20:49:00.000-07:00

Marley is Caleb's rabbit and the newest addition to our family. We picked him up on Friday and Caleb absolutely loves him. In fact, Caleb told me today that he likes Marley more than Aidan. (I'm not sure I really believe this) Caleb and I had just watched the movie Marley and Me this past week, so I'm guessing that's where the name came from.

We all had a great day together, with Caleb doing an early Easter egg hunt in our backyard. He'll have an egg hunt tomorrow with the kids at church and I'm hoping I'll get more pictures then.

Conversation with Caleb

2009-04-02T22:47:00.000-07:00

A conversation I had with Caleb today:

Caleb: (in a sad little voice) Mommy, I wish I had a wife.

Me: (trying not to laugh) Why?

Caleb: Because then I would have someone to sleep in the bed with me!

This child of mine REALLY dislikes sleeping alone!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CALEB!!

2009-03-16T15:38:00.001-07:00

Happy birthday to my sweet little boy! I cannot believe you're five years old. You are a wonderful big brother to Aidan and just a joy to be around. We love you!

Wow...so this is what it feels like to sleep all night!

2009-02-22T18:20:00.000-08:00

Aidan is already 9 months old! I think time is flying by faster with him than it did with Caleb. I didn't think that would be possible. I have been truly blessed with two very sweet boys. Aidan is sleeping a good 10-12 hours a night now. Sometimes he wakes once to eat, but goes right back to sleep. He is standing and looks sooo close to walking. He has 5 teeth now and eats anything you put in front of him. He has so much personality and is so much fun!

Caleb is almost 5 and now goes to sleep by himself and stays in his bed all night. This was a HUGE accomplishment for him because he has slept with us since birth. I think Chris and I are getting more sleep now than we have in 5 years!!

Below is a newer picture of Aidan and one of Caleb from our recent trip to Big Bear.

I'm still alive...

2009-01-18T23:18:00.000-08:00

We have had a busy but great holiday season. Since my last post, we have moved to a new house, gone to Oklahoma to visit family, and had a birthday party for Chris. Chris has also just quit his job(hallelujah) and starts at a new and smaller firm that will allow him to spend much more time at home.

I am currently in Montgomery, Al visiting my sweet friend Robyn. Chris was wonderful and took a couple extra days off between jobs to stay with the boys so that I could have some great kid-free time.

We have had major problems with our internet since we moved, so as soon as that is up and working, I'll post new pictures of the boys.

More Washington pictures

2008-11-22T19:48:00.001-08:00

Washington

2008-11-22T19:23:00.001-08:00

The week of halloween, the boys and I took a trip with Jesse to Washington. Jesse and her husband grew up in the Seattle area and they have a beautiful house on the bay in Olympia, Washington. We had a blast enjoying the fall weather. The pictures of the bay are from their backyard and the little private stretch of beach and the others are from their front yard. Don't get me wrong, our weather here in southern California is fabulous, but it was so wonderful to enjoy true fall weather with all of the beautiful colors and cool temps.

It's Over!!!

2008-11-13T15:30:00.000-08:00

Just a quick update. The judge in Chris' trial ruled in favor of his firm's side and dismissed the case. Chris got to come home late last week and won't have to go back. We are so relieved and happy to have him home!!

A little time with Daddy

2008-10-21T19:21:00.000-07:00

Chris was able to come home for two days and even though he had to work the majority of the time, it was still nice just to have him here with us. This is him trying to get a little quality time with Aidan, while on a conference call. He was just happy to be home and somewhat away from the stress for a couple of days. You will probably be able to tell that Chris looks like he could drop into a coma from lack of sleep at any time! I honestly don't know how he does it.

A visit from Mimi & Grandpa

2008-10-18T20:10:00.000-07:00

About a week and a half ago, Chris had to leave for San Diego to go to trial. We have known this was coming for sometime, but kept hoping the case would settle. It didn't. So here I am with 2 kids and no family ANYWHERE close and my husband is expected to be gone until the middle of December. I maybe crazier than I already am by the time he gets home! Anyways, to help me out, my parents came for a visit. Caleb had fun carving a pumpkin with his Grandpa and mom and I got to shop about 30 min. before Aidan was tired and fussy. It was so nice to have help with the kids and I even got to go out with Jesse to see a play in Hollywood at a great little theatre.

Below are pictures of my parents with the kids, some of which are of the jack-o-lantern that Caleb named Daphne. (Can you tell he loves Scooby-D00?)

As for Chris, he will hopefully get to come home to visit for a day or two here and there and we will be going down to see him as often as possible. I complain about being left alone with 2 kids, but he definitely has the tough end of this deal. He is under so much stress and is absolutely exhausted-I feel awful for him. (For all of you attorneys or an attorney's spouse out there-he is on track to bill about 2700 hours this year.) But a good change is on the way, which I'll be able to blog about later.

Our Light

2008-10-16T19:22:00.000-07:00

Last night at bedtime, Caleb was about to say his prayer when he turned to me and asked "did you know that Jesus is our light?" He had talked about this during chapel at preschool that day. I love this age!

Aidan's first taste of cereal

2008-09-29T21:25:00.001-07:00

I think the picture pretty much explains it!

Aidan is 4 months old!

2008-09-22T17:55:00.000-07:00

We went for his checkup today and he had to get 3 shots. (Awful-I always dreaded this with Caleb too) Aside from the immunizations, he is doing great. He is 14lb 8oz, and is 25 3/4 inches long. He has rolled over a couple times, HATES his car seat, but thankfully, LOVES his crib. He is sleeping really well at night and goes to sleep easily for his naps. He is becoming so much fun and his laugh is hysterical! Here are a few pictures of him in his jumper and some with him sitting in his Bumbo seat while I fold laundry on our bed.

More Oklahoma Pics

2008-09-11T15:04:00.001-07:00

So, I am finally getting around to posting some of the other pictures from our trip to Oklahoma. On Saturday, we went out to visit my inlaws. We spent the day with Chris' parents, two brothers and their families. Caleb loves spending time with all of his cousins and it was the first chance that most of them were able to meet Aidan. Sorry about the last picture of Jesse-for some reason, I couldn't get it to turn the right way.

More Oklahoma Pics

2008-09-11T14:57:00.001-07:00

More Oklahoma Pics

2008-09-11T14:39:00.000-07:00

Back To School

2008-09-08T14:12:00.000-07:00

Today was Caleb's first day back to school. I can't believe it is already his last year of preschool. People weren't kidding when they said it goes by fast! Caleb was so excited to get to school this morning that I couldn't hardly get him to stand still long enough for a picture. His friend Sam is in the same class as him again and Sam met Caleb at the door ready to play. Caleb gave me a quick hug and was off!

Just hanging out

2008-09-04T15:41:00.000-07:00

Not much to blog about, but Aidan looked so cute in his outfit that I just had to post a picture or two. Aidan had just woke up from a nap so Caleb couldn't wait to play with him.

On another note, anyone who has been around Caleb in the last 6 months has probably been asked to play his made up game called, I'm Thinking of an Animal... He thinks of an animal and then gives you clues until you guess it. Well, today we were reading a children's book about Jesus dying on the cross and when we talked about the crown of thorns, Caleb asked why Jesus didn't just lift the crown up a little bit so that it didn't hurt so much. After trying not to laugh( I wanted him to know this was a serious subject) I explained why that wasn't possible and that Jesus was in a lot of pain and was very tired. I also explained that Jesus couldn't move or do anything. Caleb said, "Well, he could have played I'm Thinking of an Animal. You don't have to move to play that." Um, I obviously did a horrible job teaching this story. You would think I would have learned by now to keep things a little simpler. Oh well, I tried.

Home Sweet Home

2008-08-26T10:26:00.000-07:00

Two weeks ago, I was able to take both kids and go to Oklahoma and visit our families. Chris is preparing for trial, and therefore working like a madman, so he wasn't able to go. I HATE to fly and wasn't dare going to fly alone with my infant and 4 year old, so my wonderful friend Jesse agreed to go with me. Jesse fit right in with our family, as if she had always been there! I think everyone is hoping she'll come visit again. We were able to see lots of family and we all had a blast even though our trip was short. I will have to do more than one post because I have quite a few pictures. Here's the first batch...

Caleb with Grandpa, learning to ride his new toy

My cousin Amy with her new baby Austin

My Caleb

2008-08-05T18:56:00.000-07:00

Caleb overheard me say that an older woman I knew had died. Being his typical dramatic self, he immediately said, "I don't want to die!" I told him not to worry, he would die when he was old and it was better anyways because he would get to go to heaven. He said, "well, are you going to be old when I'm old? Because I want to go to heaven with you."

Caleb is and always has been a sweet child. He gets funnier everyday and it has been so fun to watch him become a big brother. He loves Aidan so much (sometimes a little too much for Aidan) and tries to be a big helper to me. He is a complete and total Daddy's boy, but always tries to protect me if Chris starts teasing me. He usually says, "NO Daddy, I'm the one who loves her"! Chris says, who can argue with that? We just enjoy him more everyday. Here are a few pictures of my wonderful Caleb.

Earthquake!

2008-07-29T13:07:00.000-07:00

I have lived in Southern California for a total of 9 years and have felt plenty of slight tremors, but late this morning we had a 5.8 earthquake. This was not a horrible earthquake, but strong enough. We are all okay, just scared half to death. It knocked things off shelves, but only a few items were broken. Caleb said, "Mama, I don't ever want to feel an earthquake again"! I guess I should consider myself lucky that it has taken this long before we've had a real earthquake. And to think people here are terrified of tornadoes-at least you know they're coming!

Birthday Party Fun

2008-07-26T17:59:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday afternoon, Caleb attended Bella's birthday party. He had a ton of fun on the bouncer and playing air hockey with Bella's grandma. In the last 6 months or so, Caleb has become VERY competitive. As you can see in the pictures below, no matter who he's playing with, if he wins, he jumps up and screams "I won, I won!" Even against an 80 year old woman. We should probably work on that.

Aunt Jesse

2008-07-25T17:25:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, the boys and I spent the afternoon at Jesse's house. Jesse and I met 9 years ago (our husbands went to law school together) and have been close friends ever since. I was in her wedding and she attended the births of both Caleb and Aidan. She is a great friend to me and I wouldn't trade her for the world! Here are just a couple of pictures from our afternoon in her backyard.

My two tired guys

2008-07-18T23:13:00.000-07:00

While I was putting Aidan to bed Friday night, Chris and Caleb were supposedly watching the Dodger game on tv. This is how I found them. Can you tell we've had a long week?

A morning at the park

2008-07-10T18:16:00.000-07:00

This morning I decided take the kids to Lacey park, which is Caleb's favorite playground. We tried to go before it got too hot (although after living in Alabama, it never REALLY feels hot here). It is amazing how long it takes to do something so simple once you have two kids. I think we actually spent less time playing than the total time it took me to get both kids in the car and to the park. I guess it will get easier once Aidan isn't so little.

New pictures of Aidan

2008-07-08T12:47:00.000-07:00

Here are a few new pictures of Aidan. I can't believe how much he's changed just in the last week or two. Does he look more like his Daddy everyday, or what?

Baby Brain

2008-07-07T10:31:00.000-07:00

I'm sorry I haven't posted any new pictures yet. I (or if I'm being honest, my friend Robyn ) set up my blog and since then I haven't been able to find my camera charger. And since I still have "baby brain" from sleep deprivation, I can't remember my name most days, let alone what I did with the camera charger! I will either find it today or try to get a new one. I know my mom and chris' mom will kill me if I don't get new pictures up soon.

Robyn was here visiting from Alabama last week. I had such a good time and miss her already! She was a great help to me and I love having her around. She always make me laugh! She took some great pictures (as always) of my kids and I can't wait for everyone to see them.

Aidan is now fussing...gotta go!

Welcome to My Blog!

2008-06-28T18:25:00.001-07:00

I've joined the blog world and will enjoy showing off my boys. I'm sure you'll think they're just as cute as I do!

Chris and Aidan

Caleb

Me and Caleb

Mimi and Aidan

Nana with Caleb and Aidan