The Young Ones

AGE 1st Annual Science Fair 2010

2010-04-22T21:10:00.004-06:00

Mason had his first science fair at school today. He had Magnet Power demonstrating how magnets move things. Chris called it a Rail Gun or the same technology as the Maglev trains or Magnetic Linear Accelerator. Everyone loved it! Interactive so they could all play with it. He got FIRST PLACE with a 3 way tie! And two 2nd place winners. Pretty cute, he is quite the little scientist! He and Dad had so much fun with this and it gathered quite a crowd. In addition to all this fun, it was take a child to work day. Dad said "Mason bounced around Lockheed today with me. Explosions, Nitro man and lots of cool space shwag! He loved it I loved it something like that!"

EASTER 2010!

2010-04-22T20:46:00.003-06:00

EASTER!! We drove down to Pueblo, along with Mimi and Papa and had a good ol' egg hunt, goodies, and lots of yummy food. Cousins in order Mason, Kailey, Kiersten, and Lily (missing Celeste). The kids had over 100 eggs to find including golden eggs with $5 bills inside! So much fun!

Dance Recital Video

2009-12-16T13:14:00.002-07:00

Lily's First Dance Recital

2009-12-16T12:55:00.004-07:00

This is the cutest thing on the planet and is sure to bring you a smile this holiday season! I hope you enjoy!

Armando and Lindsey's wedding on Halloween in Vegas

2009-11-02T15:27:00.006-07:00

So, this was quite an adventure and very exhausting but a very cool wedding. We stayed at Paris on the Vegas Strip. Wedding was at Viva Las Vegas Chapel, reception at the Platinum Hotel (gorgeous suite) and walking the strip afterwards. Very pretty and memorable. Lindsey looked amazing and we enjoyed the masquerade aspect too! It really was fun, but a little too much for some of us old folk! :)

Bachlorette party in Vegas 2009

2009-11-02T15:00:00.006-07:00

Let me name all the storybook characters first:
Tonya-Snow White
Jenny-Dorothy
Lindsey-Little Miss Muffet
Becky-Little Bo Peep
Belinda-Alice In Wonderland
Marta-Little Red Riding Hood

For Lindsey and Armando's wedding we went to Vegas and this is the Bachlorette party. We went to Encore for dinner at Society. Limo ride to Chippendale's, very nice. And Limo ride to Blush nightclub at Wynn. Lots of drinks and a walk back to Paris and we were home. Remember-what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas.

Colorado Snow day in October

2009-11-02T14:54:00.002-07:00

Mason and Lily were off of school for 3 days due to this massive storm that dumped about 26" in our yard and neighborhood. Mason missed his Halloween party at school but sure had fun in it!

Goth Party for Halloween

2009-11-02T14:38:00.003-07:00

Our friend's Fernando and Isney had a Goth inspired Halloween/Birthday party and we lwt the kids stay up late and party. I dyed my hair for something new and a series of festivities...it is very dark. But appropriate for this!

Pumpkin Patch 2009

2009-10-18T14:00:00.004-06:00

So the small intimate Chatfield/Botanic Gardens Pumpkin Festival has become somewhat of a crazy mess! There were way too many people, it was a little hot (80) for October, and expensive! Not to mention, there was a freeze/hail early in the season and very wet summer and many of the pumpkins were damaged. From afar it looked great and picturesque but as we got closer it was a field of rot and decay. We barely got to pick out 2 "fair" ones. I am hoping for a better lot at another patch later this week when I take the daycare kids. The kids had fun though and did not really notice all the drawbacks their parents did. Life is so much brighter when you are a kid!

Photo Shoot

2009-10-18T13:43:00.002-06:00

The kids have really taken a liking to taking my picture or just using my camera. They like to make faces and pose for me and make me pose too. Some of these were taken by Mason and Lily. And some were just silly. The thing that cracks me up the most is when they take the picture and say "let me see" to review the picture on the LCD on the back of the camera. Man, they have it rough, remember when you couldn't "SEE" the picture until you went and picked it up at Walgreens Photo counter?

Chris' old belt

2009-10-18T13:36:00.002-06:00

So we LOVE that Mimi and Papa save everything. This is Chris' old belt from when he was a boy and Mason is wearing it. He thinks he Superman when he wears it (probably like Chris did). Belts are kind of a thing of the past with kids as the new "adjustable waistband" has taken its place. But Mason loves to wear it because it was his Dad's.

Day at Elitch's

2009-09-18T22:22:00.003-06:00

We decided it would be fun to take Mason and Lily's buddy Wyatt(who has a brand new brother) for a sleepover and to Elitch's for the day. We took them on all the kiddy rides and played hard. We got ice cream, had lunch, and got splashed by watching the water ride (Mason got pretty wet). All the kids fell asleep on the way home...

Bowling Night

2009-09-18T22:07:00.004-06:00

We promised Mason that we would take him bowling...what we did not realize is that it is so expensive to bowl on a Friday night! After taking out a small loan we got a pizza, soda, and a lane. The kids had so much fun! It was pretty funny watching them carry their 7lb balls to the lane and shove them down. Chris beat me bad, Lily was 2nd. And Mason was too busy jumping up and down! I remember the day when bowling was a fun but cheap thing to do...

Happy 6th Anniversary!

2009-09-18T21:57:00.003-06:00

Chris and I celebrated our 6th Anniversary by taking the kids to Mimi and Papa's and going out to dinner. We went to Dinner Detective at the Broker and it was amazingly cool! Dinner mystery involving questioning general public as well as actors, ended up being directed at me! The actors kept pointing the finger at me "the innocent teacher/day care provider". Oh ya, and I got hit on by a 21 yr old BOY. Chris had fun with that one, and we laughed it off. I guessed the killer right but did not have all the facts straight. We would do that again, so much fun!

Garden View

2009-09-18T21:36:00.007-06:00

I love the late spring when we go out and plant the garden. I look forward to the summer when I can look out the kitchen window and see all the splashes of color. Now, the kids and I harvest the veggies together. We also enjoy raising the Painted Lady butterflies every year and releasing them in the garden. The kids help me water the flowers and trees. This really is my favorite time of year.

Welcome Baby Landon!

2009-08-18T21:36:00.002-06:00

Landon Vaughn Wade (our newest baby friend) was born on Wednesday, Aug 12, 2009. He was 8lb9oz, 21in. at 934am. He is precious and the kids wanted to hold him lots. So far Holly says he is a very good baby and Mason's buddy Wyatt loves being a big brother.

More pics from the Peach Festival

2009-08-18T21:25:00.003-06:00

First day of School

2009-08-18T21:10:00.004-06:00

Mason and Lily both started school! Mason started half day Kindergarten last week. And Lily started a 2 hour/2 day a week preschool program at their neighborhood school. We can walk or drive and we have been very happy there. Mason's teacher is very nice and he loves her. This week has been exciting- he has been on a REAL bus, checked out a book at the school library for ONE day, had a fire drill, and Total Wellness class (mom is still trying to figure out how this is different from Fitness class). Lily has had a big week too- she gets to see her "Bubba" (Mason)on the playround at recess, play in the rice table, go to the green table for art. She also loves singing this song-"Look through the window and who do I see, I see Lily! a good friend for me." I love my kids.

Peach Festival Palisade, CO 2009

2009-08-18T20:54:00.005-06:00

We drove to Palisade/Grand Junction for the weekend to see my mom and little brother Bryce and go to the Peach Festival. We had a blast! Mason chose Euro Bungy jump, and together they went on the huge blow-up slide, camel ride, and roundy swing. We all ate a peach of course and looked at the artisans. They loved the live music. We jammed as much as we could into a short time to visit and have a fun break. Loved it.

Happy 3rd Birthday Lily!

2009-07-16T21:28:00.003-06:00

We had a party at home for Lily and it was amazing! We grilled kabobs and hotdogs for a ton of friends and family. We ate drank and were merry 'til the sun set. Lily got all kinds of goodies. We had the jumper for the kids, bubbles, bean bag toss, balloons, and goody bags. We got all kinds of compliments on what a lovely party it was.

My HUBBY Loves me!

2009-07-16T21:17:00.002-06:00

Because I'm a good wife and he is proud of what I do. What a sweetie. I think I will keep him. :P (wink) I snapped a pic of Lily smelling the roses he sent...

Happy 4th!

2009-07-16T21:09:00.003-06:00

We got to enjoy the fireworks show at the Sweetwater park this year due to all the rain we have been getting. The past couple years they had to call off the show due to dry conditions/fire in the park. However, we had to wait for the rain to stop to go to the park and missed most of the freebies. But we snuck in the line for facepainting and got some cotton candy and that was most important. Lily did not like the big booms of the fireworks and hid under the blanket. But Mason was yelling "YAHOO" and "It's not over folks!" Wherever he heard that. But it was a spectacular show thanks to leftovers from last year. Our friends Emily, Dave and Chloe joined us.

PS. Sarah- SUZY Q Z the clown was their facepainter! I was so excited. She is my favorite clown!

Feild trips galore!

2009-07-09T21:08:00.003-06:00

As many of you know, I am a planner. I thought it would be super cool to take the kids a few more places this summer as the boys will soon be starting Kindergarten. We have been lots of cool places in and around Denver. So, now in the morning the kids all say "Where are we going today?"

These pics are from Dinosaur Ridge in Morrison, CO. I invited a couple friends so there are more than just "my" kids. It was so cool! I had been there about 8 years ago with my preschool class but since they have added a few things. And one of the things they changed (not so cool) is that it is closed to vehicles besides their own pay to ride shuttle. So we walked. But the kids thought it was fascinating. They let you climb up and touch some of the dinosaur footprints. Mason put his hand in one. And Lily found a new boyfriend, a friend's son Liam. Her friend Gavin is still insisting he will be her husband. I tell him he should probably wait a few years to decide. :P

Happy 5th Birthday Mason!

2009-07-09T20:25:00.002-06:00

June 12th, 2004 a sweet chubby baby boy was born. He was known as: Baby Mason, Baby Dinosaur, Fuzzyhead, Chunky Monkey, Michelin Man, Smiley, and more. He lit up everyone's face and made them smile. I was stopped in stores by people saying "that is the most beautiful baby!" I thought so too. He is our world and his animation and sense of humor still makes people laugh. And now he is known as: Bubba, Bubby, Mace, but most of all my favorite boy.

We had his birthday party with just a few friends at The Wildlife Experience and were the first to explore a new exhibit called Globeology. We watched a short funny animal film called Animalopolis. We were seated on the Mezzanine for cake and got quite a view. It was great fun. Afterwards, with family, we went to one of our favorite places Rubio's for dinner and Baskin Robins for dessert. Oh ya, for one of his gifts Mimi and Papa got him Roller Skates and we got him a helmet. He is still practicing...

DO NOT EAT THIS! BEWARE

2009-06-12T23:40:00.003-06:00

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY:

April 26, 2009 per yumyyucky.com
Feed Your Fat Cells Domino's Pasta Bread Bowls
If you're in the market for that stuffed, bloated, overfed sensation that will make your fat cells swell, it's time to head
on over to Domino's Pizza for their new Bread Bowl Pastas. Now you can have your pasta...and eat the bowl too.

I scoured the Internet for Domino's official nutrition information, including their own website, but I came up short. So I contacted the company directly and they quickly responded with Bread Bowl Nutrition Facts. Here's the short version:

Colossal Calorie Count

Warning! Calories listed by Dominos are for one serving, but there are two servings in every Pasta Bread Bowl. If you're feeling Greedy or refuse to share, then double the numbers for the entire meal.

•Pasta Primavera: 670 calories per serving (1,340 for entire meal)
•Chicken Alfredo: 700 calories per serving (1,400 for entire meal)
•Three Cheese Mac-N-Cheese: 730 calories per serving (1,460 for entire meal)
•Italian Sausage Marinara: 730 calories per serving (1,460 for entire meal)
•Chicken Carbonara: 740 calories per serving (1,480 for entire meal)
...and don't forget to add in a greasy appetizer, soda, and dessert!

Domino's Pasta Bread Bowls sound damn good, but I refuse to commit fitness suicide for the sake of adding them to the Taste Test Directory. This is merely a public service announcement should you dare to venture into the world of the forbidden. Proceed with caution! Prices start at $5.99.
BUYER BEWARE

Twister Video from our back door!!

2009-06-08T08:57:00.003-06:00

So we get an "EMERGENCY BROADCAST-Tornado Warning" on the TV Sunday afternoon and go to the back door and this is what we see. We were not close enough to the area to be in danger but had an excellent view. The twister we caught was one of five in the area, and it hit Southlands mall in Aurora doing some damage there. We also saw another twister develop that hit Byers.

Sorry I will have to have Chris work on upload of video, it is not working!

Museum trip w/Nana & Bryce

2009-06-05T13:43:00.002-06:00

We went to the Denver Museum of Nature & Science today with Bryce & Nana. We checked out the mummies, Space Odyssey, and the new exhibit Expedition Health. The kids had fun and with my mom there I finally got some pictures of me with the kids!

Mason's 2nd trip on the Raft

2009-06-04T21:59:00.003-06:00

Chris took Mason and his buddy Wyatt out on Mac's raft. Wyatt was a little hesitant with his new surroundings. Mason laughed the whole time. Chris, Mac, Armando & Lindsay accompanied. Fun morning on the Platte river turns bad. They stop for lunch at the infamous Platter River Bar & Grill and come back out to find the raft has been STOLEN. Life jackets, oars, everything. Only the cooler has been recovered. Shocked crew left stranded and two dissapointed 4 year old boys left to walk. Poor Mac is missing his boat.

I am with Mason. He says "That boy needs to go in time out!" Yeah. To say the least.

Break out the tissues...Mason is a preschool grad!

2009-06-02T22:52:00.002-06:00

So Mason, 4 going on 14, sang a space song, Phonics song, and of course made the crowd laugh. As he came up to the stage he put his hands up in the air together like he had just won a boxing match(not without training from his Dad). Everyone thought he was the funniest guy for doing this. He did not want to go to graduation on the morning of. He said "I do not want to go to Kindergarten, I want to stay in Preschool!" He finally agreed but sadly. It is hard growing up. His buddy Wyatt and another buddy Harrison are also pictured.

Water Play on a Hot Day in May

2009-06-02T22:34:00.003-06:00

We love water days! We had our best buddies over to play on a hot day in May. Holly brought Wyatt. And Angie brought Evey and Gavin. The famous trio had a blast dumping buckets on each other and warming in between sessions. C'mon summer!

Happy 1st Birthday Cousin Celeste!

2009-06-02T22:06:00.002-06:00

May 17th we celebrated a special one year old birthday for Celeste! We finally got some cute pictures of all the cousins together! I loved this one because Celeste had her leg up showing off. They played on the trampoline and caught some air. Lily gave Celeste a hug and sung her Happy Birthday. We love you Celeste!

Happy 34th Birthday to me!

2009-05-02T13:54:00.003-06:00

Don't say a word...I wanted to celebrate my birthday with my kids. They don't often get me all to themselves. Yes, we went to Chuck E Cheese for MY birthday. We went to the one in Colorado Springs so we could meet the cousins. It's ok, we went out for sushi later. It was a great day.

Easter with Family

2009-05-02T13:24:00.004-06:00

OK, this is too funny! We tried to get a picture with all the cousins (but missing baby Celeste). Some smiling, some not, some looking, some not. Oh well. We tried. The ones with Lily and Kiersten (kissing cousins) turned out cute. We also had an egg hunt all over the house due to the rain. Oh ya, and celebrated my birthday!

Easter at The Wildlife Experience

2009-04-27T13:39:00.002-06:00

To be politically correct it was Spring Eggstravaganza with the Spring Bunny. hehe Cracks me up. Anyway, they had activities set up and prizes for the kids. The kids had fun and it was free for members!

Born 2 Impress GUEST GIVEAWAY!!!!

2009-04-15T08:46:00.000-06:00

Born 2 Impress GUEST GIVEAWAY!!!!

Disneyland with the Kinneys and the Youngs

2009-03-26T14:34:00.005-06:00

We planned our vacation to CA and just for fun asked the Kinneys to go with us (as Chad's family is from there). So due to same Spring Break and other circumstances they decided to go at the same time. We got to Disneyland with them for one day!

Ok, I really could not tell who was more excited. Liz, for getting to go to Disneyland with her brother Chris again in their 30's OR Mason, for getting to go on rides with cousin Kailey.

We were able to "fastpass" a couple rides with them and go on Indiana Jones which rocked! It was a blast! And the kids had so much fun touring the magical world of Disney together.
Here are pics of:
ALL of us (taken by a Disney cleaning staff) :-P
Kiersten and Lily trying to loot the treasure on Tom Sawyer's Island
Kids with Jesse
Kids with Woody
Mason and Kailey in line for Pirate's of the Carribean (afterwords, Kailey said "I just did not like that ride" for about an hour. Oh well. Funny girl. I am surprised she was the only one to complain. :-)
Liz, Chad, and Kiersten on the Disneyland train (this was referred to as the "Dinosaur train" due to the tunnel with after Tomorrowland that we discovered had panaramas of moving dinosaurs and narration, very cool)

Disneyland 2009 with the Youngs

2009-03-26T13:35:00.005-06:00

I might have to do this in a couple posts and will not be posting all the pics as there were 233 to be exact. Yikes. I love my new camera that Chris got me for my birthday (early), it takes great pics. And I really did not think I took a lot until I got home and looked! So I will spare you all the super touristy ones and share the good shots of us! We rode most all of the rides over the 3 days we were at the park. Lily's favorite was the Nemo Submarine. Mason's favorite was the "crazy train" Big Thunder Mountain roller coaster. Chris and I loved the Indiana Jones ride. We also did Breakfast at Goofy's Kitchen and got good character pics there. This was funny because the idea is that Goofy made all the food, so besides typical breakfast items there were also hot dogs, chicken nuggets, peanut butter and jelly pizza, you get the point. We had such a good time and it was a much needed break. The kids are such great travelers even when we pushed them to go a little more. They loved Disneyland and Mason got teary eyed when we left. Sad to leave the "Happiest place on Earth".

Mason and Lily w/ Mickey Mouse (Lily kissed his nose and Mickey kissed Mason on head)
Mason and Lily hugging Baloo (Lily saw him and said "I am gonna hug that bear!")
Family with Pluto (this was at Goofy's kitchen)
Mason and Lily with Chip (yes, they are eating Mac'n'cheese & cupcakes for breakfast)
Tonya and Mason driving Autopia car

Day at Huntington Beach

2009-03-26T13:24:00.002-06:00

Gotta love the beach! Our California vacation started with a little wind and rain. But we still had to go to the beach! We went to Huntington and ate lunch at Ruby's on the end of the pier. Very good fish tacos! There was a car show on main street which Mason lovede. We tried to walk in the water a bit and the incidentally the kids fell face first into the first wave we touched. Oh well. Mason got a new outfit out of the deal at the surf shop. Lesson learned: no matter how cold it is, put the kids in their swim suits at the beach.

Soccer Boy

2009-03-26T13:09:00.002-06:00

WOW, time flies when you are having fun! I have not posted for awhile and I apologize. I love to keep this updated and have been slacking. My excuse is we have been busy! I have a little Soccer boy that I would like to show you....Mason started Littleton Lolipops soccer camp the beginning of March. It is so cool to see him "playing soccer". Enjoy.

The 2009 Starry Night Gala

2009-03-02T18:49:00.003-07:00

This was our first year to go to the Starry Night Gala for the Brianna Badger Foundation. Please see the website to gain knowledge of the full mission of this event. Cheryl and Bill (Brianna's parents) have dedicated themselves to raising awareness of heart conditions in children and young adults. We had an amazing time! There was a silent auction--I tried for cool movie star sunglasses but we ended up with Chris' win of a growler of beer a month for a year from a local brewery. Not bad. I also tried to win several other items but lost. Oh well. And Chris would not let me bid on the trip to Cabo during the live auction. There were a couple great speakers that also have Long QT Syndrome like Brianna did. Great food, great friends, good fun for a great cause.

THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!!!

2009-02-08T12:52:00.003-07:00

We had so much fun rehearsing and performing our Thank you to Jennifer Duncan for this amazing quilt! We are forever in her debt! The pictures do not do this beautiful work of art justice! What sweet and kind soul. Love, The Young's

OH MY GOSH!!!

2009-01-24T13:28:00.002-07:00

Brace yourselves...I Won that beautiful quilt!!!! You cannot imagine how excited I am! I actually won something!!! This sweet and very talented blogger Jen (must check out her blog) picked me (with the help of a random generator)! I do feel honored and will post a pic and Thank you to her very soon! YAH ME!

Gorgeous Quilt giveaway

2009-01-21T13:29:00.002-07:00

So as you know, I like the giveaways, but more importantly am interesting in quilting lately. I would like to make a bedspread for Lily, but am currently doing research on it. Maybe this could be a sample to check out...

http://jenduncan.typepad.com/whats_new/2009/01/how-i-used-64-fat-quarters-/comments/page/2/#comments

Well, it's enough to make note of...

2009-01-18T20:21:00.002-07:00

I have been on a mission not to give in to my "inheritance" of genetic weight issues. I have changed my diet, not gone on a diet. I have made a life style change in the way I am eating. And I am taking kettlebells with a friend/trainer. This has empowered me to lose 13 pounds in 8 weeks. I think that is the most "healthy" progress I have made since the baby weight. I am excited that my clothes are fitting better, there are noticeable changes, and I am stronger! Just had to share it...

Should not be telling you about this one...

2009-01-14T21:12:00.001-07:00

http://grosgrainfabulous.blogspot.com/2009/01/lunch-date-blouse-giveaway_13.html

Love this top! Please don't check it out... hehe XOXO

I am a sucker I know..

2009-01-14T20:49:00.002-07:00

but look at this bag! It is the Square bag from O Yikes! And anyway, all you moms need to check out this super cute site anyway...

http://www.simple-finds.com/

another giveaway..

2009-01-14T20:02:00.001-07:00

http://jonquilsladybugs.blogspot.com/

Check out the cute bag she is giving away, or don't then I might win it!

Christmas/New Year's with Mom/Nanna

2009-01-04T17:11:00.003-07:00

Thank you Nanna for having us over! The weather held out for us to drive over the mountains and back. We opened presents, had an amazing ham, and everyone wore their new pajamas. We went to the winery to taste, checked out the new hotel( for the summer stay), went downtown Grand Junction (my fav) and out to a nice dinner. We played and watched a movie and even got to sew a little. Lily befriended the horses and the dogs (quite the animal lover). She also took a liking to Bryce and wanted to be by him all the time. He is a pretty great guy. Time flies when you are having fun.

I tried to get a picture of Lily in her Raggedy Ann overalls with her dolly and Mom's gorgeous tree. And of the "boys" spending quality time together, all on their computers.

Happy New Year all!

Cousin Celeste's 1st Christmas

2009-01-04T17:06:00.002-07:00

I thought since we had our 1st Christmas with baby Celeste I would devote a blog post to her (besides the fact she is super cute and smiley). Merry 1st Christmas Celeste!

Christmas Day!

2009-01-04T16:56:00.002-07:00

It went from insanely fast mass tearing into a big pile of destruction on the floor (Daddy and Lily caught a little snuggle amongst debree). In the afternoon, it ended with a picture perfect family photo. Mason (only boy), Kailey (tallest), Kiersten (smallest), Lily (red shoes!).

Hope everyone was able to battle the weather and spend time with family and friends!

2009-01-04T16:49:00.002-07:00

I know it is after the 1st of the year but geez it was crazy! We had a blast, kids got sick, and various other activities. This post is devoted to the The Denver Zoo Lights. OOOH pretty.

Christmas Cutie Patooties

2008-12-16T09:48:00.002-07:00

Here are the pictures of the kids I promised. You may print them off of this site if you would like. Grandparents--I will be printing you a set off the brand new super duper ultra cool photo printer. (Our Christmas present to ourselves, the other one broke on the first printing of the Christmas cards...oh well.) Hope you all enjoy! They did turn out very cute if I say so myself, but I am their Mama..

Happy Holidays 2008!

2008-12-07T12:38:00.003-07:00

Many already got this or are getting it on your Christmas card! But Happy Holidays anyway! I will also be adding some others from the same photo shoot of the kids! So cute! Love to all, Tonya

Still trying to win a gorgeous quilt...

2008-11-11T22:22:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween!

2008-11-05T23:02:00.003-07:00

Hope everyone had a Happy Halloween! We did! I took my whole "gang" to the library for Monster storytime in costumes. We trick or treated at a park with the local playgroup. And we went to a Halloween party at Holly's house. So here we have Lily "Flower Girl" (flower fairy), Gavin "The Flash", Mason "Batman" and Wyatt "Ninja". (Not pictured, baby Evelynn as an Octupus). We had a great time. The picture of their backs is their first door trick or treating and the rest is history. Next, is little Lily walking alone with her treat bag. She got left behind by the boys and Mama had to run her up to the door before it closed. But Gavin took care of his "wife" (he calls Lily). He would tell the homeowner as the group of kids rush the door for treats, "Don't forget about the little flower in the back". Thanks Gavin.

Sad sweet giveaway...

2008-11-05T22:22:00.003-07:00

You can donate to help this sweet baby get a new heart or enter to win this quilt or both...cute blogger anyway

New giveaway!

2008-10-29T14:08:00.002-06:00

I am determined to win something! I love this! How cool to have a watercolor of your own children?! I guess I could do it if I put my mind to it...oh well..
Here is the link:
href="http://sittingprettystudio.blogspot.com/">

2008-10-16T20:21:00.000-06:00

Oct 11 at the Pumpkin Patch, BRRRR

2008-10-11T14:35:00.003-06:00

Ok, I don't know how it can be so cold and still be raining but it is. Cold, wet, and muddy, but perfect for the pumpkin patch! We had fun at the Chatfield Pumpkin Patch this morning. We got a couple tiny ones, gourds, and two HUGE ones. I had fun dressing Lily in her Halloweeny outfit. We went on a hay ride, made a craft, and roped some serious hay cattle. Fun stuff!

Beachcombing

2008-10-11T14:24:00.003-06:00

I got a few cool beach pics I thought I would post. We found all kinds of critters and had so much fun. We took the ferry over to Vashon Island and drove to Robinson Point Park. We walked on a gorgeous quiet private beach. Then Sarah and I had the biggest Margaritas I have ever seen! I do hope Sarah and Scott find a house there!

Quick trip to Seattle...

2008-10-11T14:05:00.003-06:00

One of my BFF's Sarah and husband Scott (also Mason's godparents) live in Seattle. I went out last Fall with Lily to visit so I thought this time I would take Mason. He was a good little traveler (as always). We got to play at Sarah's preschool/daycare and meet some new little friends in her class. We went to the downtown REI, which is crazy cool. It had a treehouse playhouse inside for the kids to play while parents shop, coffee shop, and a deli. We went to the Space Needle and Seattle center. We went out to eat and went to the beach and combed. Mason LOVED playing with his friends Alia and Zac. We both loved seeing our friends and having a mini vacation together. I am amazed at how Alia has grown into a lovely young lady and how Zac is quite knowledgeable on many topics. Thanks for having us you guys!!! We love you!

September 08

2008-09-21T21:39:00.004-06:00

Chris and I celebrated our 5 year anniversary on Sept 5th. We had a blast in 5 years! Our lives have been completely transformed and we are so happy! I posted a few photos here to remind you of the moments we have shared.
For our anniversary, we went to a new yummy sushi place and Chris gave me a new wedding band (my other one broke). It is amazing!
The photo of the Mason and Lily is in Vail with the flowers. We were there for Uncle Randy's commitement ceremony and had a great time. Check out the Kinney's blog for all the pics.
Enjoy the trip down recent memory lane....a lot of pretty cool things have happened in 5 years...

Visit to Pueblo!

2008-09-02T22:34:00.003-06:00

We had so much fun visiting family this Labor day weekend! We went to Pueblo to spend the weekend with Chris' sister Liz, Chad, Kailey and Kiersten. They took us to the Children's Art Museum. It was SO cool! Tons of art projects the kids can make and take realted to the theme of the Wild West. After dinner, we went to City Park downtown and rode on the carnival rides for $.25 each. Mason laughed so hard,yelling "This is so fun!" all the way around the roller coaster. On Sunday, we all went to the Royal Gorge together. So fun and beautiful but slightly overpriced. And for dinner, homemade sushi! MMMMM....thanks Chad! On Monday, we visited Chad at CSU Pueblo where he teaches. Mason has decided he would like to be Uncle Chad's assistant Chemistry professor and work in the lab. We can only hope! Liz took us down to the new Riverwalk downtown which was really pretty. So much to do so little time...

Busy month of August!

2008-09-02T13:39:00.003-06:00

Mason and buddy Wyatt started Preschool at the neighborhood school. So cute! The picture of their first day. We went to visit my mom for her birthday and go to the Peach Festival. Mason loved the car show. Lily enjoyed the pony ride. She said "Hi horsey, I am riding you." So cute! We went camping with our close friends Holly, Jason, and son/buddy Wyatt. We all loved the Red Feather Lakes area outside of Fort Collins. We fished, Jason caught and cooked a little trout. Yummy. The kids found a cool tree for a photo op!

Classic fun in a box

2008-08-14T21:49:00.002-06:00

OK this is too funny, anyone who really knows Mason, notice in hand: Roar (ol' yellow lion friend) and in other hand: yep, you guessed it, a car or two! But it is a great pic! Happy August!

This summer has been busy!

2008-08-14T21:21:00.004-06:00

We have been super busy with birthdays, parties, friends, camping, and outings! Sorry I have not been keeping up with the blog. In addition to all this, we raised our own butterflies at home. We observed the caterpillars, chrysallis, hatching, feeding, and release. A former student and friend Kalynn (14) came to help out and play this summer. She found a snake in the yard the kids took a liking to it. Most recently, we went to Tiny Town for a field trip. Mason and Lily had so much fun going in the "kid sized" buildings and peeking out. Group pic is: Mason, Wyatt, Gavin (good buddies, all 4, born within 2 weeks of each other), Kira and Lily, both 2(3 days apart).

Hope everyone else is having a great summer too!

Cute giveaway

2008-08-08T20:59:00.003-06:00

http://bizzybeecreationscrafts.blogspot.com/

Liz twisted my arm to go to this site...Lily needs hairbows and I am too busy so I am pimpin' my blog. Sorry folks, a mom has gotta do what a mom has gotta do!

Fun Day with friends!

2008-07-24T21:04:00.002-06:00

We met a friend Angie and her kids Gavin and Evelynn at the park for a playdate/fieldtrip. Gavin is the same age as Wyatt and Mason and they are good buddies. Evelynn is 5 months and was just sittin' pretty. Lily tries to hang with the boys. This park has a water feature and a cool sandbox. They had a blast!

EXCUSE MY TRIAL AND ERROR with Playlist!

2008-07-17T21:31:00.001-06:00

2008-07-17T21:20:00.000-06:00

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2008-07-17T21:18:00.000-06:00

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2008-07-17T20:21:00.003-06:00

http://oldredbarnco.blogspot.com/ is where this quilt is being given away. (Don't go there, you'll ruin my chances of winning!) Just kidding. Maybe. She also has a store http://www.oldredbarnco.com/ that she sells handmade soaps, and sugar scrubs. You might be receiving some of this stuff for gifts those of you reading. I am just taking a chance here to win this thing because it is amazing! If you get a chance go to her blog and check out the pics of it. So pretty, wish me luck!

Happy 4th!

2008-07-09T21:49:00.003-06:00

Emily and Chloe came with us to the park to see fireworks. We stayed until dark where we proceeded to "ooh and aah" for about 90 seconds. We then watched fire burn all the dry grass surrounding the launch pad. We watched the failed attempts to extinguish the fire, and then the firetrucks. Finally, we were told the show was cancelled. Sweet. Great show folks, thanks. I needed the walk anyway. Next year they might think about wetting the dry grass before lighting explosives above and in 100 degree weather. HHMMM
Cutie baby girl
Funny monkey
Love ya

Party within a party

2008-07-09T21:23:00.004-06:00

Kailey invited Liz and I to join her for a tea party during the birthday party. It was a nice little diversion.

Liz and I actually starting having a an adult conversation at the tea party. Guess we got a little too comfortable!

Happy 2nd Birthday Lily!

2008-07-09T20:46:00.003-06:00

Chris and I decided to team up with his sister Liz and husband Chad for a joint 2nd Birthday party for Lily (July 3rd) and cousin Kiersten (June 30) at our house. It was a hit! We had an ice cream social with a carnival flair, so much fun! Happy 2nd birthday girls!

As always Mimi outdoes herself, I asked her to face paint for the party and she set up like a professional! Most of the kids got a tattoo or facepainting and in more than one place! Lily's Aunt Liz and Uncle Chad made this gorgeous bean bag toss for the party. The kids had great fun with it! Aunt Emily is helping Lily to toss one in.
Kiersten enjoyed her ice cream cone cupcake.
We all posed for a clown nose family and friend picture. Too funny.
Happy Birthday Lily, my little clown!

Happy Father's Day!

2008-06-14T23:50:00.003-06:00

I picked a couple cute June pics to wish all the daddies out there a HAPPY FATHER'S DAY! Dad's you rock! Thank you Daddy for all you do for our home and family! We love you!

Mason's 4th Birthday!

2008-06-14T22:43:00.005-06:00

My good friend Lisa made this amazing birthday cake for Mason. It was beautiful on the outside and the most delicious flavors inside. The cake was chocolate cake layers with different chocolate filings in between the layers all covered in blue fondant. Speed Racer Mach 5 on top of course!

Mason got a two wheeler (with training wheels) from us. He said "This is the best gift I have ever gotten in the whole world!" I guess that means he likes it. He did great, crashed once and got right back up, no worries. Speed Racer is the theme this year so he calls it "The Mach 12". Lily has to do everything "Bubba" does so she got her bike out too. Nanna helped out a little...
We had so much fun at Westlands Park or his party. We reserved the covered pavilion and filled it with family and friends! We were supposed to play in the water feature but it was closed. It was a little too cool and windy for it anyway. The kids had a blast running around together, rolling down the hill, and playing on the playground. We also had dinner and cake!
Lily got comfy on her new kitty pillow watching Mason open his presents. He received lots of Speed Racer goodies, games, Geotrax, Cars movie stuff, doggie pillow, Batmobile, DC Super Heroes, race track, basketball, sidewalk paint, savings bonds. So many nice things!I cannot believe my baby boy is 4! Time flies when you are having fun!

A Wedding and A Baby!

2008-05-18T14:01:00.004-06:00

Mason was the ringbearer for Jason and Beth's Wedding and Lily was just cute.
Chris got a new suit and Tonya had her first experience sewing a dress for herself. May not do that again! But I did get lots of compliments!
He said he was a little "wiggly" but made it. He stopped at the runner and asked the crowd "What does this mean?" Mama coaxed him the rest of the way with a new Speed Racer car...too funny.
Meet new Celeste Janae born on the wedding day, May 17, 2008. She is gorgeous and healthy. Her Mama (Chris' little sister, Stephanie) looks pretty good too!

More Oregon pics

2008-04-22T22:20:00.002-06:00

Patty and Tonya having fun in the sun, 78 degrees on the coast in April is unheardof! But it was amazing! Mason riding a Dolphin in the kids play area, cute guy!

Oregon Trip April 2008

2008-04-22T19:07:00.008-06:00

Tonya, Mason and Lily (Lily is the accessory queen and insists the glasses go upside down, oh well)

Chris, Lily and Mason feeding the seagulls a bagel off our balcony in Siletz Bay.
Grandma Carol with Mason and Lily
Mason and Lily barefoot in a very cold Pacific Ocean, brrr. Right after this picture...Lily fell in face first and Mason's soaking wet pants fell down. But they loved it, and we were all laughing!
"Uncle" Lance and his girl CaMicha came to the beach and went to the Oregon Coast Aquarium with us. Mason says Lance has "shark hair" and insists CaMicha is HIS girl.