Steven, Deborah, Ryan, Dani & Doggies too!

Summer Time

2011-07-10T19:46:00.001-07:00

I love all the time off I have in the summer, but it always seems that I am even busier during these months. Let's see.... Since I last blogged many things have taken place. Our Danica had her first birthday and she's definitely a sassy little thing that manages her way around the house just fine! We've had many fun summer days playing in the baby pool or throwing "water bubbles" (balloons) as Ryan calls them. Ryan started preschool in June and already knows 17 letter sounds! He loves learning and we are so proud of him. The sad news, Steven lost his father at the end of June. We are so sad not to be able to see him any longer but have explained to Ryan that he doesn't hurt anymore and that he is in heaven with God. We had a fabulous Father's Day with him and Ryan will remember his Grandpa Steve to be so happy. Here are a few pictures from the last couple of months.

Fourth of July fireworks

Fireworks with Uncle David.

Slip in Slide fun.

In the baby pool.

Uncle Gary helps Dani on the Slip in Slide.

Cousin Sam has fun too.

Father's day with Grandpa Steve. we love him and miss him so much.

Water bubbles!!!!

I'm sooooo cool!

Mmmmm! Blue Popsicles in my underwear!

Every girl has to feed her baby.

Minnie Mouse.

Birthday cake time.

Mmmmmmm!!!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Ryan and Grandpa Steven

2011-07-10T08:46:00.001-07:00

Ryan and Grandpa Steve comparing their hair cuts. So Sweet! We will miss you dearly Grandpa Steve!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Easter Pics and Other Stuff

2011-05-16T20:56:00.000-07:00

Daddy and Ryan feeding the ducks on Easter

Doesn't everyone sit inside their dresser drawers????

Sam and Dani! Love this picture!

Mama and Ry on Easter

Daddy and Ry at Disneyland on the cars. Ryan was so giddy when Daddy let him drive!

It's already May?....and our little Danica is almost ONE! Really? It feels like just yesterday we brought her home. She is walking all over the place...I'm sure just to keep up with her brother! Summer break is almost here (I can't wait) and warmer weather has come..and gone...and come again. Crazy weather can't seem to make up it's mind! Our Ryan is starting preschool in a few weeks, and our Danica is almost completely off formula and into a big girl car seat! Yea!

Just a few pictures to share until next time.

Ryan and Dani getting ready to color Easter eggs.

Ryan touching the sea stars at Sea World

Dani girl's first steps

Papa Chuck and Dani on Easter

Cute as a bunny!

Grandpa Steve and Dani on Easter

Hunting for eggs

Dani's 10 month check up

Us on Easter

Easter surprises from Grandma and Papa

Spring Break Fun!

2011-04-05T21:30:00.000-07:00

I love Spring break! Having breaks from work always makes me feel like a better mommy! My house always seems cleaner, my kids seem a little more calm and we have way more fun together because there's no stress about having to hurry off to work and daycare the next day! Too bad Daddy doesn't get a Spring break. Daddy and I even got to go to Vegas for a few days while Grandma and Papa watched the kiddos. We've never left them, but it was a nice break and a nice time for Mommy and Daddy to spend together. We even finally got to see a real show while in Vegas! Yeah.

As for life around here, I can't decide if summer has actually begun! It was 97 degrees the other day. But.... then again, it says we're expecting rain on Saturday! Crazy weather I say! But it allowed for a few water filled days for my Ryan and Dani to put on their swim suits and play outside with the hose. Ryan had a blast. Dani hasn't reached a verdict just yet, but I'm sure she'll come around. I can't wait to get her out on the boat this summer. I can hardly believe she's already going to be a year next month. Where does the time go?

Spring break has also allowed Ryan and I to make lots of delicious treats. Since Ryan loves to bake, we've made whoopie pies (thanks Donna) and dark chocolate brownies from scratch. We usually just make them from the box, but if you don't have an extra box of brownies lying around, you just have to make them the old fashioned way. It was so easy and I think they may be the best brownies I've ever tasted. I love Epicurious! If you've never used the app or website, they have some great recipes. And the whoopie pies, MMMMM! Mom and Daddy said I should add more frosting next time, but they were still oh so tasty dunked in coffee!

Ryan and our bear, I mean dog! Such a good dog! He loves to play in the hose too!

Dani girl and Krash. Don't we all wish we could look as cute in a bathing suit like that!

Playing with the hose.

Spraying Mommy

Junk in my trunk????

Pretty as a picture

Dani in the sunlight

Ryan pushing Dani on one of those weird weather days.

Sweet kisses

Happy First Day of Spring!

2011-03-20T18:38:00.000-07:00

It's finally Spring! Time for our lilies to bloom, warmer weather and longer days! Yea! Dani stops to smell the flowers! I wanted to upload more pics to share, but for some reason, they just won't upload right now. I'll have to try again later. Happy Spring everyone!

It's Already March???

2011-03-05T21:34:00.000-08:00

Just a few pictures to update the blog. Can't believe it's already March! Can't wait to change the clocks and have daylight last a little longer each day! I can't believe this school year is almost over either. I've almost made it through a year of kindergarten! Yay! Well, Dani is sure to be walking soon, and Ryan may not make it to 4 LOL. He's become quite the conversationist and he likes to TRY to negotiate with mommy and daddy! I might not make it to 4! Other than that, he can be a very sweet little boy, whom I love dearly!

Well, we did name her Danica!

Trying to take a quick pic. before the self timer clicked

Cousin Jennah, Dani and Ry

Well, we can only control so much....... Cowboy thinks Dani is her baby.

Danica in Daddy's dirty hat... still cute!

Playing Legos and trains with brother

Ready to race

Ryan, explaining the rules to his little sister.

Don't know what the face is all about, but Makayla and Dani seem happy :-)

Ryan and his future wife!

Dani, playing at the park.

Dani and Ry

First time swinging! With two ear infections, she lasted about five minutes. Not too bad!

Here comes the bride...... I think this picture will look so cute on the reception tables at their wedding! Lol Makayla and Ryan. Best friends!

Valentine's and other stuff

2011-02-15T17:22:00.000-08:00

Finally had a few minutes to post new pictures...and the computer was actually cooperating. Dani is almost 9 months. Wow! Where does the time go? She's crawling everywhere and even started standing and walking along all of the furniture. Here's my two love bugs on Valentine's.

Each time I'd try to take a picture, the girl would start crawling away.

Cute as a button!

A day at the park.

No worries! I sanitized the slide BEFORE she did this!

Crawling everywhere!

All smiles

Don't worry, it's empty!

Christmas pics

2010-12-27T13:47:00.000-08:00

Well, now we can all exhale! Christmas has come and gone. All the lights and decorations are almost packed away until next year. Now it's time to go through a few more toys to make room for new ones. We definitely have a three year old now. Just this morning he told me that I shouldn't talk back to him! Wow! I think he forgot who the mommy is for a second there! Most days he's still our little love bug that likes to crawl in our bed to snuggle at 5Am. But, he has his moments, as I'm sure they all do. Our little Danica is a sweety too. Poor girl is teething like crazy! I'm sure it makes every mommy and Daddy feel horrible knowing there's really nothing we can do except for provide a little Tylenol here and there. Now, on to cleaning the house before New Years!

Aunt Lisa and Dani

Cousin Danielle and Dani

All smiles

Daddy and Dani

Singing Happy birthday on his actual birthday!

Getting the hang of his new scooter on Christmas morning. Brings back memories of being little on Christmas day.

Breakfast kisses for Woody

Woody and Ry

His Christmas morning surprise smile!

Breakfast and presents

Remember slinkies??? Had to get Ryan one.

Almost Christmas!

2010-12-23T16:11:00.000-08:00

So, since we haven't blogged in a while, here's what we've been up to! A play date with my best friend. Can you tell we love each other?

All dressed up ready to go!

Sometimes I fall asleep waiting for mommy or my brother.

I had a Wubbzy birthday party.

It's very difficult to find a Wubbzy cake! 14 stores and bakeries and not one!

Dani met the Thanksgiving turkey!

I like to help decorate and sort the bulbs! Mommy lets me express my math skills!

Helping decorate.

Dani and I watching TV and laying on the floor

Aren't my boots cute?

I like to play dress up.

Cousin Sam and I on Thanksgiving.

Dani and Steven

I love my sister.

My first trip to the dentist! I refused to open my mouth until the visit was over and I was in the waiting room, but I still got a new toothbrush.

I thought it was cool that they had movies on the ceiling.

What are double strollers for? One baby and three dogs!. Brother was napping.

Cute reindeer cookies in kindergarten!

We love taking baths together. Hope everyone is having a nice holiday. See you soon.

Happy Halloween and Other Stuff!

2010-10-31T14:11:00.000-07:00

My happy girl, 5 months

Our little banana

The Flintstones and their monkey

A monkey and his banana

Family pic at the pumpkin patch

Grandma with us at the pumpkin patch

Kisses

Grandma & Ry

I want this one

My boy

Riding a John Deer

LOOK! I ate it ALL

Mamma and Ry at Disneyland

Daddy went to Nascar

WEEEEEE!

Dani's room is finally finished...thanks cousin Beth!

Maybe I should be a kitty???

I can hold my own bottle now

Ryan and Dani playing legos

Ryan feeding Dani her first solids

She absolutely loves her big brother

Dani and Mommy at her 4 month check

Welcome, Fall!

2010-10-09T21:27:00.000-07:00

Life is just busy, busy, busy. Let's see.... Dani is now a little more than 4 months. She is a good baby and shows a lot of patience, especially with her brother. She is cutting her first tooth and loves to suck on those fingers. Ryan continues to be an amazing big brother. He loves his little sister more than I could have imagined. Now if he could only learn to use his little voice while Dani is sleeping.....life would be perfect. I definitely have my hands full, especially since Daddy started back to school two weeks ago. We miss him when he's gone, but we know how hard he's working to finish his degree. Just a few pictures...since we hardly get a chance to blog anymore.

Who gave my Ryan a barbie??? He was very worried that he could not get her panties off! I enlightened him and told him they were her pantyhose, not panties. "Oh, well, mommy, could you help me get her pantyhose off?" What do you say to that? When I asked why, he let me know that Barbie needed a bath!

He was very impressed by himself! "Look, I'm giving barbie a bath all by myself!"

Drying barbie off. Now you know I had to take pictures of the entire ordeal! I had to show Daddy what we do while he's at work.

Time to get Barbie dressed again...now that she's clean and all. See....all clean fun! No worries! He'll make a GREAT husband someday :-)

Ready to go in the morning.

Wrapped up in brother's towel.

Playing on the floor

At the Doctor's for a visit.

Just got back from a walk. At least one of my babies are tired!!!!

Fun at the RiBer! (That's how Ryan says river)

2010-08-06T21:04:00.000-07:00

How I wish the summer would stay a little longer....just with cooler weather. If the summer actually ends, this will only mean one thing.....I must return to work. Only this school year will begin at a new school, in a new classroom and a new grade level. Kindergarten, here I come. Excited, yes! Nervous? To say the least!!! Anxiety? my new middle name!

As for the fam, little Ryan has just about conquered potty training. We've resorted to paying him actual money for "big" potty in the toilet. We've had many accident free days, and we're so proud of him. Just when you think you have no more patience left to give...try potty training a two year old while nursing a newborn. Dani's getting to be so big and her formula bill is beginning to cut into her college fund. I never knew a 10 week old little girl could eat so much. She loves to be held, rocked and swaddled. Daddy thinks it's amusing to sit her in front of the mirror and watch her stare at herself for what seems like forever....hey, whatever works!

For me, summer will officially end as of midnight tonight. Monday begins a new school year and learning to manage two little ones in the morning, dropping off and picking them up at daycare, and getting to work in a timely fashion. Can't wait til I actually have to do Danica's hair. I'm sure I'll still have time for my morning Starbucks run....right??? Boy am I glad I'm a morning person. So good bye summer, good bye going to bed whenever I want and rolling out of bed whenever a child runs to my bed side shouting "good morning, Mommy" (my morning boy), good bye river house and boat. Hello alarm clock....how I despise you so!

Ryan in his crab, before the Havasa heat melted it :-(

I think he knows how to operate my Iphone better than I do...and he's only 2!!!!

Baby girl on Fourth of July

Mommy and Dani. Grandma bought her her first swim suit.

Mmmmm! Spaghetti

Such a ham!

Playin in the sand

Still playin

He had to pee

pee on the rocks. Talk about confusion! You must pee pee in the toilet Ryan...except for at the river!?!???

Sleepy boy

Taking a nap on the boat! Notice the beer cuzy on his hand. He thought they were gloves. Too cute

Little fish

Daddy and Ryan at the sand bar

Cousin Sam, Me and Ry

Lounging at the riBer!

Oh how our world has changed!!!

2010-07-01T18:04:00.000-07:00

Danica Grace

(Birchfield Photography)

Thanks Trav!

Ok, well to say the least, we've been super busy....having a baby, potty training, Disneyland trips, and so on. As most of you already know God blessed us with our little Danica Grace a few weeks ago. She looks exactly like Ryan, at least we think so, and life as been busy ever since. Here are a few new pictures.

This is Dani's first bath

This was Ryan's first bath. Don't they look like the same baby???

A day at Disneyland

Mom and I try a self portrait on the cars at Disneyland. This was the best one.

Daddy and Ry on the Rockets

We all look exhausted.

Ryan meets Dani

My Boys!

More bath time fun

Dani pooped and peed all through the photo shoot.

Easter and Everything Else Since we Last Blogged!

2010-05-07T15:13:00.000-07:00

Easter morning gifts from the Easter Bunny! I'm already for the rain.

I know it's been a while since we've updated our blog. Between work, school and waiting for baby, life has been pretty busy. We are now entering week 38 of this pregnancy. We CAN'T wait any longer! Going to doctor's appointments four times a week gets pretty tiring, but the good news is that the doctors say the baby looks healthy and seems like just the perfect size and weight for 37 weeks. We go so often to do ultrasounds (3 a week) because the doctors have been worried about my size. Each time the baby is checked though, they assure us that everything looks great! We can never have enough ultrasound pictures (over 30 to be exact) and we never get tired of seeing and hearing the baby's heartbeat. Ryan is growing up so fast and has become a pro at peddling and making sand castles in his sandbox. We adore everyday with him and can't wait to see him with the new baby.

Easter brunch at the wineries.

Cousins Steven and Samantha help me run to find at

least one egg. I think all the big kids got them.

I loved the Easter Bunny

Cousin Sam and I

Hunting for eggs in the front yard.

I've learned how to ride my bike and I'm really good at it. I only fell a few times...then mommy and daddy made me wear my helmet.

My favorite thing to do!

Disneyland

2010-03-24T15:27:00.000-07:00

Here are a few new pictures of us at Disneyland. Here's Ryan with Pluto. He loved meeting all the Disney characters and taking pictures with them. The weather was perfect and the crowds were small, so all in all, Ryan had a great time. He loved the rides and was even a good boy when we had to wait in line a few times.

Mommy and Ryan inside Mickey's house.

Daddy and Ry outside It's a Small World.

Aren't I the cutest?

Grandma, Papa and Ry inside the train.

Stealing kisses while waiting in line.

Daddy and Ryan on their way back from Tarzan's Tree house.

In the teacup

We visited the Tortilla Factory at Disney's California park. Here's Ryan showing you his fresh tortilla.

Waiting for the train ride to begin...looking back at grandma.

Mommy, Ryan and Minnie Mouse (31 weeks pregnant and counting!!!)

Grandma and Ryan reading the map...deciding where to go next.

Snow Day

2010-01-24T18:52:00.000-08:00

We went to the snow today! All that rainy, cold weather finally brought something good! SNOW. I couldn't wait to touch it, and if you'll notice in all the pictures, once I touched it, I was more interested in eating it than playing in it. What a great day to play in the snow. Daddy even sent me down a hill for my first sled ride. I loved it!

Mommy and I sit in the snow. Mmmm, almost as good as a snow cone.

Taste, Daddy!

Have some more.

Still eating and feeding snow.

One last bite of snow before my first sled ride. Ready, set,

GO!!!!

Um....Mommy...help me.

That was a blast! Do it again, do it again!

Family self portrait before we end our snow day.

The Holidays!

2009-12-31T10:34:00.000-08:00

We hope everyone had a wonderful holiday. We can't believe it's already New Year's! Where does all the time go? We can hardly believe Ryan's already two. Sorry we haven't blogged in a while. We've celebrated a birthday, Christmas and now tonight will be New Year's...though I doubt Ryan will make it to midnight.....! We will be 5 months pregnant next week and all the test results that they make you do have come back negative, so we're excited about that. Ryan's getting used to the fact that a new baby will be here soon. Daddy painted the nursery and we've slowly begun moving stuff in to help prepare Ryan. He seems to be fine with all the change. I'll let you know how it goes, come May. Ryan is dying to go potty in the big boy toilet, so that's a work in progress. I never knew it would be so difficult to find little boy boxer briefs in a 2T, but we finally found some. Though we're excited about potty training, it also makes me a bit sad knowing that Ryan won't be the 'baby' anymore. Next week we will have the ultrasound that allows us to see the sex of the baby. But don't get too excited....we'll be bringing an envelope again this time too. You'll just have to wait until May. With all of the kicking and moving around inside my belly....I'm already counting down the days until May 28th! Enjoy all of the pictures.

Mommy and Ry opening presents

Thank you kisses

Are there anymore under there?

Someone has to help the doggies open their stockings!

Our little Christmas reindeer

Ryan and cousin Micheal playing with the jack in the box

We made Birthday cupckaes in our jammies on Christmas Eve

Ryan picked strawberry for his cupcakes

Pour it in

mix it

MMMM! I think I need to taste for quality

I love my birthday puzzle

and my legos

Makayla and Ryan with his party hat

When he places this hat upon his head, he runs around the house yelling "party, party" and you too must wear a hat!

Mmmm! frosting in the back of my dump truck

Ryan was SOOOO excited to see Santa, he could hardly stand it.

When it was finally his turn (after waiting an eternity; 10 minutes) he ran to Santa and could not stop smiling.

I can't stand the waiting!!!!

Mrs. Michelle invited us over for a gingerbread house party. Here are all the kids waiting patiently

Mrs. Michelle and Wyatt

Tada! (in Makayla's own words). Our finished house.

I think Ryan liked eating the candy off the house more than the house itself.

Ryan's deciding if he really wants one of these babies in his own house...???

Ryan has a hat obsession lately!

11 Weeks

2009-11-07T18:31:00.000-08:00

OK! So, I realize it's not the clearest picture...but here's our new little one hanging out in his or her little hammock. Look towards the right, you can see little legs already! Amazing what takes place in only 11 weeks!

A Lot has Happened in the Last Month!

2009-10-26T11:27:00.000-07:00

Yep! You read my shirt right! I'm going to be a big brother! That's OK, Mommy and Daddy are still in shock too! WOW! What a surprise! We found out about a month ago. Mommy was soooo tired, so she thought "hmmmm???, Naaaa, that would be impossible." But after three home pregnancy tests, one confirmed test at the doctor's office and hearing the actual heartbeat last week...yep....it's possible. We've kept it quiet...just in case, but I guess we can no longer keep our BIG secret. We are all very excited...and nervous about having more tiny little feet run around the house, but we feel so blessed to be pregnant with another one without any help from infertility. I love to lift up Mommy's shirt already and point to the baby. I still can't believe that by this time next year I'll have a new baby brother or sister to play with. Mommy will be 10 weeks this week and our due date is May 28th. Are you as shocked as we are?

Mmmmmm! (Mommy doesn't really let me drink Red Bull...that's just for Daddy)

A few weeks ago we went to the pumpkin patch to find A pumpkin, but we came home with a FEW pumpkins instead. We had lots of fun finding just the right one!
I like this pumpkin Daddy!

Or...maybe this one! If I could only lift it!

This ones kind of heavy Mommy, but I'll take it.

My new ride.

If you give the monkey a dollar, he'll shake your hand. Ummm, I'm not too sure about this Dad! He was cool to watch though.

Ryan & Daddy

I thought feeding the goats at the petting zoo was hilarious. Every time a goat would stick it's head in the cup, I was all giggles!

Daddy and I climbed the hay mountain.

I found a pumpkin just my size too!

Grandma, Mommy and I went to feed the ducks at the duck pond in Temecula. The ducks didn't get much of my bread though because I was more interested in eating the bread myself than feeding the ducks.

Grandma shows me how it's done.

We also went to the San Diego Zoo again. I loved the aerial tram. Here I am looking back at Grandma Cindy and Papa Chuck. I wasn't even scared!

Daddy helps me climb the jungle gym at the zoo.

Here's another goat.

Me and my friend the Gorilla!

My Monkey!

2009-10-10T11:09:00.001-07:00

Take me shooting Daddy!

Ryan found these with Daddy's work stuff and had to have them on.

After a little bribing with gummy worms, Ryan finally tried his Halloween costume on. After he had it on, he didn't want to take it off.

Mommy's little monkey playing outside.

Someone push me...please!!!

Now that Summer is over...

2009-09-08T20:12:00.000-07:00

we actually have time to BLOG. Ok, well I have to admit, between Facebook, the blog, and everything in between, I just can't seem to fit it all in...so here's our summer (in an abbreviated form if you will). So, we basically spent the entire summer in Lake Havasu. It definitely made a huge difference having a house to stay in out there. We came home a lot on the weekends to check on all of our furry family members, and yes Cowboy got to go at times also. All in all we had a wonderful summer. No one even got a sunburn! Let's see....what else is new???? Ryan gave up the binkie! The day after daddy's birthday (yes, Steven turned 34 this summer) Ryan decided it'd be OK to be a "big boy" and give them up. I kept them around the house for about a week (until I knew we were completely safe). He's done VERY well. At times (especially in the car) I MISS THE BINKIE! But I'm being a big girl! Time is flying by. I can't believe how smart our little boy is and how much he teaches us everyday. We never realized we could love another person as much as we love him. Here's a few pictures from our summer.

The famous "pouty" lip. Where'd he learn that?

Helping "clean" the garage.

Posing for the camera.

Papa Chuck pushes Ryan in his "river wagon"

Family picture time

silly as always

Cowboy and Ryan

Kisses for Daddy

This is what the boys do at the river.

Just the boys!

Another trip to the river!

2009-06-19T08:01:00.000-07:00

Just thought we'd update the blog! Here's a few pictures from yet another trip to Havasu.

This is what "the water is too cold" looks like!

ahh...sand! Much better!

"driving" the boat! Of course, you never drink and drive though!

Giving Daddy kisses.

Mommy and Ryry sitting on the boat.

I love BBQ Sauce!

2009-06-04T20:43:00.001-07:00

My new favorite thing is BBQ sauce! I love to dip my chicken, my veggies and even my fingers!

Water Fun!

2009-05-17T19:45:00.000-07:00

Has summer officially arrived yet? Well, it has at our house! Mommy and Daddy learned that I love to play in the water!

Shoes and all!

Soaked!

Silly Krash!

Daddy had as much fun as I did!

We're not done, are we???

With Mommy and Krash..after my bath!

I'm singing the "Itsy, Bitsy Spider" with Daddy.

Lots to Blog About!

2009-05-05T20:44:00.001-07:00

Well...my apologies to all my blogger friends and family! Life has been quite busy and has left little time to blog. So, that being the case, you get to read and see about all our family happenings all at one time. Let's see, this past weekend we went to Lake Havasu for the Eliminator Boat Regatta. We had lots of fun, especially because the weather was a perfect 95 degrees (the way summer should be). Grandma, Papa, Mrs. Monique and Mr. Jim went with us also. They have the cutest dogs! Our doggies stayed home where it was much cooler. We also celebrated Easter. I loved coloring and finding all the hidden Easter eggs. I'm also learning more words everyday. My favorite word as of this week is 'mine.' Mommy's not too fond of this word coming from my mouth either. I think everything is mine right now. I've also learned the words dogs, caca (as in poop), no no, and 'mo' for more. I almost always say thank you, and we're working on using the word please more. Mommy and Daddy have also been working with me to learn my body parts. I know where my nose, eyes, mouth, feet, hands and tummy are. I'm awesome at following directions too! It's like I learn something new every day!

Family picture at the river.

Daddy helps me play with my new sand toys.

Mommy plays with me too!

I like all the 'new' things I find in the sand.

I think I'm a better boat driver than Daddy.

Helping make the salad for Easter lunch.

Gotta mix it.

Checking for quality!

What's in these pretty round thingys?

Grandma Cindy and Papa Chuck bought me new play food for my kitchen.

Looking for more eggs.

Giving Krash the doggy treat inside his own Easter egg.

Daddy helps me color eggs.

Quick! Roll up my sleeves.

I loved throwing the eggs in the dye.

All done, aren't they pretty?

Mommy's little dare devil! (I think he gets it from Daddy)

And here is my nose!

See my new kitchen? The Easter bunny dropped it off!

Eat your heart out Emeril!

I love to cook (like mommy)!

New Puppy?

2009-04-06T20:37:00.000-07:00

Well.....he asked me what I wanted for my birthday! Isn't she cute? Is it any surprise that I, of all people want another dog? But don't freak out! Of course the husband said NO! Even after I sent him this adorable picture...the pragmatist within my lovely husband revealed himself....and he said NO, again. Truthfully, I just borrowed little Lily (the puppy) to see if Steven might change his mind about a new furry friend! Oh well...maybe I'll just ask for a purse or something.

2009-04-04T14:25:00.000-07:00

SPRING is finally here. That means I get to wear shorts and sandals. It also means mommy has been off work for a couple of weeks. We did lots of things. I got my very own FIRST ever ear infection! That wasn't any fun. We went to the river and we also went to the Wild Animal Park.

Don't I look cute strutin' my stuff in my new clothes?

My new favorite word is UH OH! I've also learned the words bubbles (from Daddy's soda), Grandpa and Grandma.

One of my new favorite books. It has a hole in it for your face.

This is when I had my ear infection! Don't I look pitiful?

We went to the river with LaLa (Makayla) and her mommy and daddy. She's my bestest friend. Here we are discussing the Wiggles.

Isn't she as cute as a doll?

Sportin' my new...better fitting life jacket, on the boat. I was such a good boy too. While mommy and daddy launched the boat I sat there like an angel.

Here I am at the Wild Animal Park. This is the first time ever, yes FIRST time, I have ever fallen asleep in the stroller while we were out somewhere (besides just takin' a walk around the neighborhood).

Grandma helps me drive the jeep.

Someone knew right where to put the buttons so that I could reach them. I loved pushing them to hear the gorillas.

Sitting in an egg at the Park.

I liked the flamingos too.

What a cute picture of Grandma and I.

Mommy and I checkin' out something on the ground. (?)

I rode the carousel....I'm not sure if I liked it once the animals started moving.

Mmmm....gotta get the last little bit of my Gogurt.

We went to the ZOO!

2009-03-01T20:15:00.000-08:00

Maddox and I...and our Mommies & Daddies went to the San Diego Zoo this weekend! We bought annual passes so that we could visit as many times as we'd like. Plus, we really only got to see half the zoo. We missed the elephants and the giraffes (it's a big zoo for a little guy to see all in one day). Oh, well! We'll save that for next time.

Here's a picture of all the boys.

...and here are the Mommies with the baby boys! Not sure what I was freaking out about ?!?!

Here I am crawlin' through a tunnel. No, I'm not hot...my cheeks are always that rosy.

Is there a monkey on my back? I don't care what anyone says about my monkey! I get to walk (and I love to walk on my own) and mommy feels safe! We're good! No opinions please.

Aren't I cute, leading the way!

Photo opportunity on the turtle!

More pictures with Aunt Cami and Maddox!

Mommy decided she'd sit on the turtle with me.

You could say I'm worn out by this time!

Oh my GOSH...I think I saw a Gorilla!

I did see a gorilla!
We had a great day! Next time maybe we'll visit the Wild Animal Park, hmmm?

Just a few pictures...

2009-02-18T20:20:00.000-08:00

As Ryan and I laid down for bed tonight I realized that we didn't really have any recent pictures of him sleeping. He looks so peaceful here...I had to call daddy up to bring the camera. I can hardly believe what a big boy he is already. He has four more teeth coming in (all at the same time) but he's such a happy little boy. He loves to help lately too. He loves to throw trash away in the trash can (and sometimes he even throws things away that do not belong in the trash), help clean up his toys, 'read books' and bring various items to mommy and daddy when asked. It's amazing how quickly these little guys learn. My heart melts when I think about how fast they really do grow up.

Notice Bailey in the bottom corner.

...what are friends for?

Ryan loves to sit in Daddy's police car.
"What does this button do, Daddy?"

"...and this button????"

"push this one"

"let me drive"

I'm Walkin' Everywhere!

2009-01-31T20:20:00.000-08:00

Somebody PLEASE push me!!! I got a new dump truck for Christmas! I like to be pushed around on it.....

and I like to push others around as well!

Poor Cowboy! She doesn't really care for my new dump truck.

I also love to color with my new crayons. That's what I've been up to lately!

We went to the Park Today!

2009-01-09T21:51:00.001-08:00

Mommy's vacation is almost over and then it's back to work, but we had one last play date this week. Daddy took us to the park to play.

I loved the slide with Daddy.

Here we are going down the BIG slide.

I had lots of fun exploring.

..but, I wasn't too sure about the swing??? Maybe next time Mommy says!

Frugos???

2009-01-09T21:38:00.000-08:00

So... as some of you know, my Daddy is addicted to Frugos (that's a frozen yogurt place here in town). When my Daddy says "You know what sounds good?" that means we're going to Frugos...usually in my PJ's. Aren't I cute in my PJ's and Elmo slippers?

OK! Enough pictures...let's go. Yep...that's me walking!

So...while Mommy was trying to sew today, I was busy stealing fabric and dragging it around the house. Baby Linus????

Yep! That's me walking again.

This is how I get out of my new ball pit! I slide right out!

Baily likes my new ball pit too. I like to hide her toys in it.

Happy Birthday Maddox!

2009-01-09T21:32:00.000-08:00

My friend Maddox turned one a few days ago so we helped him celebrate his birthday!

I love my car...so we thought Maddox should have one too! This car cures the fussies!

Maddox and I play together.

I wanted him to taste my snack!

I'm One Year Old!

2008-12-30T14:32:00.000-08:00

So many good things have happened over the last three weeks! First, we had a great Christmas. We enjoyed visiting with our family and friends. I also had a great first birthday! Yep...I'm finally ONE! I can do so many things now too. I'm almost walking. I can take five to six steps all on my own. I practice every chance I get. Also, I think I'm finally getting a few more teeth...because I've been kind of moody lately (who could blame me???). And guess what??? NO more formula for me! I'm on to regular milk now. Here I am on my birthday (also known as Christmas Day) eating a Happy Birthday cupcake my aunt Deena brought me.

No more formula for me!!!

Here I am playing with my Little People farm

I got a new wagon for Christmas...and refused to get out of it, so I open the rest of my presents in the wagon.

My famous frowny face.

Notice my new toy! Daddy loves it too.

All aboard!!!!

Grandma Cindy put snazzy new slippers in my stocking!

One of my favorite past times is playing with all of my fridge magnets.

Here we are at Build a Bear...but we built a dog instead...go figure???

All done at Build a Dog!

I love to play Peek a Boo with Bailey!

Ryan's First Birthday

2008-12-08T20:43:00.000-08:00

Daddy and Ryan in the jumper!

We celebrated Ryan's first birthday this past weekend! Wow, were we exhausted after all was said and done. Ryan was great the entire day and handled all the chaos quite well. Thank you to all our friends and family who made the party and we missed those of you who were not able to make it. We can hardly believe a year has almost passed. It seems like just yesterday we were trying to conceive, yet here we are with our beautiful baby boy who brings so much love and laughter to our lives. Though he won't actually turn a year until Christmas day, I've already begun thinking of what new and exciting journeys his second year will bring. I can hardly wait!

Ryan loved all his gifts. He hasn't stopped playing since he open them all.

More presents!

He really liked the wrapping paper.

Time for cake! Ryan wasn't quite sure what to do with it though.

.....but after a little prompting from mom.....

it was alllll over!

Time for a bath. Don't you love the cake face?

Just a silly boy!

After the party was over..... cousin Jennah pushed the birthday boy in his new car.

Hey Toots....keep pushing! :)

Jennah and Ryan with our new dog.

And at the end of a very long day....... we relaxed in a bath together.

Ryan's First Thanksgiving

2008-11-28T21:47:00.001-08:00

We hope evryone had a wonderful Thanksgiving. We visited my cousins, my aunt and uncles, and Grandma and Papa. Here we are(Mommy, Daddy, me and Uncle Gary) all dressed up ready to eat turkey.

Mommy loves the look on my face. We were just about ready to eat Thanksgiving dinner. I ate turkey, mashed potatoes, green beans, and even stuffing.

See my new cowboy boots. These were actually my cousin Steven's when he was little (now he's 14.....a big boy). His mommy decided it was time to pass them on to me. Mommy had to try them on me when we got home (so what if they're as big as my whole leg! Mommy says I'll grow into them).

Ryan get's a Haircut

2008-11-28T21:39:00.000-08:00

I finally got my first haircut. My hair was getting so long, Mommy could barely spike it anymore. Mommy and Daddy took me to Ms. Raquel (she does Mommy's hair too) to get a trim. I was such a good boy too!

Almost finished.

I'm getting gel and spikes!

I'm Almost 11 Months!

2008-11-22T20:36:00.000-08:00

Mommy thought it was due time she updated our blog. I'm almost eleven months old you know. I can do all sorts of new things too. I can't wait until my first Thanksgiving this week, and right after that comes my birthday and Christmas. I can hardly believe I'm almost a year old. I'm not walking yet, but I'm definitely cruising around the living room holding on to all the furniture. I've learned to blow kisses, open all the kitchen drawers and pull a few doggie tails. Here are a few of my latest pics.

Here's my messy face.

All dressed up ready for my Christmas pictures. Don't I look handsome?

I love to play with my new drum set.

Here I am with my drum sticks.

I love to play with the remotes and the coasters.

This is how Cowboy "does" the laundry.

I am fascinated with Mommy and Daddy's wedding album.

Mommy thinks this is the cutest picture. I am actually holding a picture of my friend Makayla. I love to kiss the picture of her, and mommy just had to take my picture. I'm sure this picture will embarrass me someday.

Congratulations Daddy!

2008-11-01T20:03:00.000-07:00

Read my shirt!!!

We're proud to announce that my Daddy has made the SWAT team. Daddy is... ecstatic to say the least and we are oh so proud of him. He's worked hard and has been waiting a while for this and finally got the call this past Thursday! Congratulations Daddy! We love you very much!

Happy Halloween! Aren't I the cutest lion you've ever seen? RRRRrrrrrrr!!!

Just crawlin around!

A big smile for the camera.

Mommy, me and Daddy

Mommy and I

Grandpa Steve and Grandma Dotti spent Halloween with me.

Doesn't everyone read books under the table?

Here I am playing with the dishes while Mommy and Daddy make dinner.

Ryan thinks he's the newest dog in our family. We just haven't figured out why he's so fascinated with the kennels.....oh wait.....he's a boy!!!

Happy Fall

2008-10-19T19:45:00.000-07:00

Mommy, Daddy and Grandma took me to the pumpkin patch this weekend. I had tons of fun sitting in the wheel barrel, picking out a pumpkin (that I'm sure weighs more than I do) and taking pictures in the 12 acre pumpkin field. Mommy will try to post more pictures soon.

9 1/2 Months and Counting!

2008-10-14T20:21:00.000-07:00

Ahhhh! Fall is finally here, along with the cooler weather and the option of sleeping with your windows open at night. I absolutely love this time of year. My sweet husband informed me that I NEEDED to update our blog! Funny me! I didn't know Blogs had become a necessity??? Anyway, thought we'd share a few pictures. Many of you know that Ryan was named after Steven's brother Jim who passed away the year before Ryan was born. He was very special to Steven and so we gave Ryan the middle name James in his honor. Well, as Ryan was exploring the house this afternoon he crawled over to this cabinet where we have a picture of Jim....and he just stared. Kind of gives me chills. I didn't even realize what he was doing until I looked at the picture later. So....I just love this picture of Ryan and his uncle Jim.

Ryan and his bestest friend Cowboy (look how long my hair is).

This is what I do while Mommy empties the dishwasher.

One day I just might be a composer!

Look at Grandpa Steve teach me to color at breakfast on Sunday.

Cute, cute, cute. I've been sick all week, look at my rosy red cheeks.

Mommy says I'm too cute for my own good! Notice the police car on my shirt. Daddy won't let mommy buy any clothes with fire trucks on them!?!? Talk to you soon!

Nine Months Already???

2008-09-27T21:01:00.000-07:00

We thought we'd finally update our blog. Lots of things happen in two weeks time. Guess what? I'm finally getting teeth! I have my two bottom teeth pokin' through, but I refuse to let anyone see them. Mommy's always trying to feel them though. I've let her see them once! I'm a very busy little boy. I like to crawl all over the place and pull myself up on all the furniture. I love to play with my dog Bailey since I can grab all of her toys now. She agrees that I'm a lot more fun now that I'm getting a little older. Here are a few pictures to share. Talk to you soon!

Here I am sitting on the quilt Grandma Cindy just made me (she made mommy a matching one too).

I love food.... but I'm still a milk junkie!

Mmmm! Popsicles are my favorite.

...thought I'd take time out to watch a little television.

hmmm... think I should try the stairs???

Bailey loves to play fetch with me. She makes me giggle and giggle and giggle and...

I'm learning to drink from a straw (thanks for the cups Jennah).

Which one of you lazy dogs will play with me????

Take me for a ride Grandpa Steve!

We're Finally Crawling!!! Watch Out!

2008-09-13T11:45:00.000-07:00

I just love this picture! Lately Ryan has been making the funniest faces. Well, we finally did it! For the past week Ryan has been getting in the crawling position....and going no where. Until yesterday that is. He finally took 5 or 6 steps (crawls) at Grandma and Papa's house and there's no stopping him now. And now he thinks he's hot stuff too. This morning (at 4:00am) I went in to check on him and there he was standing up in his crib, smiling at me (as though he was thinking "ha ha mama, look at me now"). I had to smile. I guess it's time to lower the crib to the lowest setting. When we finally got up this morning he decided to pull himself up on the coffee table and walk around it. We're definitely in trouble now.

Look at me crawl!

I can pull myself up now too. Look, I can even grab the remote.

Here I am in my friend Maddox's hat.

This is me and Maddox. I let him borrow my pacifier. See my goofy smile.

What's Ryan up to?

2008-08-31T20:44:00.000-07:00

Just a few new pictures to share. Can't believe Ryan is getting so big and learning so many new things. He's waving, playing peek a boo, reading (as you can see below, ha ha) and just being silly. No crawling yet...but I'm sure that'll come in time. No teeth to report either. He's had horrible fevers throughout the last week though. Hopefully he's just teething. Oh.. and he has spoken his first official word. Though I was hoping for mama or dada....we got "baba". And boy does he know when he wants a baba....like at 4am. Oh well...I wonder what his next word will be??? Enjoy!

Playing Peek a Boo

"Reading" his favorite book.

Ryan's first toy bucket...but mommy thought it'd be cute to put Ryry in it. As you can tell he didn't seem to mind either.

Krash on Sunday morning, watching Daddy wash the truck.

Just thought this was the funniest picture of Rodeo.

I'm Almost Eight Months

2008-08-21T15:01:00.000-07:00

Well, thought I'd finally update our blog though nothing too exciting has been going on over here! Mommy went back to work and hallelujah...I have a great class this year! I find it odd that I only have 4 boys in my class out of 20 kids though. Oh well! They all seem sweet as of now (the 7th day of school).
Daddy started a new adventure all his own. He finally decided to go back to school. We're so proud of him. He's taking a psychology class (the syllabus was 26 pages long!) and a criminal justice class that I'm sure he'll breeze right through.
It's been a fun week in our household (not really). Daddy and Ryan both have strep throat. Poor Ryan...he's back to waking up in the middle of the night. I don't really mind though. I kind of missed snuggling with him in the big comfy chair in his room. Hopefully he'll be feeling better soon. He's getting so big. He's almost eight months. At Tuesday's doctors appointment he weighed in at 20.9 pounds. Time for a new car seat!
Anyway, though he was feeling awful, Ryan still loved to sit outside. So here are the 'white trash' pictures of Ryry sitting in our front yard (can't sit in the back yard because our 150 pound dog thinks he's a lap dog).

Ryan discovered how to pull grass.

Ryan's First Beach Trip

2008-08-08T20:52:00.000-07:00

We decided to conclude our summer with a trip to Solana Beach! Daddy's a river boy, mommy loves the beach and Ryan is just happy to stick his cute little toes in water of any kind!

I just love this picture...don't know why... but I do!

Ryan poses by the rocks while Papa takes his picture.

Papa chuck and Ryry. Uncle Gary even came to visit...since he lives in San Diego now (I'm jealous) He'll even hold Ryan now that he's bigger.

Grandma kisses Ryan

We're sad to see our summer end. However, next week mommy returns to a new school year, Ryan returns to Mrs. Arlene's and Daddy must return to saving our city streets.
Having our baby boy this summer has added so much excitement to our family life. He's such a joy and we feel like the luckiest parents out there!

Lake Havasu

2008-08-08T20:17:00.000-07:00

Ryan's first boat! He fit perfectly. We thought it was cute until he realized he could reach...and eat the sand all by himself (then we thought it was hilarious). A little sand never hurt anyone!

Our week long trip to Lake Havasu was a blast. We had fun with all the other families. We've already decided we'd do it again next year. Ryan definitely loves the water! Here are a few...ok...many pictures from our trip. Enjoy!

Grandma Cindy and Ryan

Papa Chuck and Ryan in the boat.

Daddy and Ryan

Daddy and Mommy ...after a long day at the lake.

Zach...we thought this was the cutest picture!

Gary, Jill and Tyler on their boat.

Rylie, Tyler, Wesley and Ryan at the "Naked Turtle" Restaurant

Uncle Donald with Rylie and Ryan

Just Another River Trip

2008-07-16T20:08:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we took another trip to Havasu. We went with the Ayala family and boy were they a lot of help with Ryan. It's always nice to have a few extra arms when needed. We had a blast and Ryan was a champ all day while we were out on the boat. He loves being in the water, though he still despises the life jacket (I can't say I blame him, either). We can't wait for him to be 30 pounds so we can get him a more comfortable life jacket. Here are a few pictures from our trip.

Daddy and Ryan

family picture in the channel

Ryan giggles for the camera

Megan & Brandi

The Ayalas and Ryan & Mommy

Tubing behind the boat
(me, Megan and Brandi)

Just got out of the water.

Megan makes Ryan giggle

Ryan plays Peek-a-Boo

This obviously wasn't taken at the river, but I thought it was the cutest picture. Ryan just loves his big dog.

Fourth of July

2008-07-05T20:58:00.000-07:00

We hope everyone had a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend. As for our family, we pretty much just relaxed at home. Steven had to work the entire day on Friday...which I guess I should be used to by now, but I still miss him during all the holidays. Now that we have our baby boy I find that I am picture crazy. I guess I want to make sure Daddy doesn't miss anything. Ryan and I got up early on the 4th (gee, what a surprise) and headed over to Grandma and Grandpa's so that Steven could sleep before going back to work :(
Despite Steve's absence, Ryan's first 4th of July was great. Grandma and Grandpa barbecued for us, we blew bubbles in the backyard, took naps, walked to the park and returned home just in time for Ryan's bedtime. Of course the dogs were freaked out due to the fireworks. Um... lets see, Bailey had an "accident" in our bedroom, and after checking on Krash, he decided that the house would be a more suitable place for him to retire for the night. So... our 150 pound dog camped out at the top of the stairs for the remainder of the night (he refused to go back down the stairs....until Daddy got home). Oh well, we love our crazy life with a beautiful new baby and four wonderful dogs! Here are just a few of our pictures from the weekend. Enjoy! Love you all!

Look! I wear my sunglasses just like my Daddy!

Mommy just loves this serious look on my face.

The sun sure is bright!

Mommy and RyRy at the park.

Papa Chuck and I listen to the music at the park.

So cute.

Grandma helps me take a nap.

Krash... on the stairs! We just love him for the dog that he is.

Ryan's Day Out

2008-07-03T17:15:00.000-07:00

We were busy today! Here I am at the grocery store. It was my first time sitting in the shopping cart. I loved smiling at everyone. Babies sure do get lots of attention at the grocery store.

I also went to the doctor's office for my 6 month check up. I am 17 pounds and 26 inches long. I grew three inches since my 4 month appointment!

Here I am with mommy...waiting for my shots.

Grandma gets one more feeding in before my shots.

Well, after my shots (and a little Tylenol) we ate lunch! I loved gumming this cucumber!
(Thanks for the idea Auntie Cami)

That's cowboy, giving me kisses again and again and again...

Here I am in my bath chair now that I can sit so well! I think I've got this sitting thing down (mommy still surrounds me with pillows though).

New Friends

2008-06-26T18:35:00.000-07:00

We visited my friend Maddox today! I had lots of fun rollin' around on the floor with him (since neither of us can sit by ourselves yet).

Here I am sharing my favorite things to suck on...my fingers.

Boys will be boys!!!

I'm six months old today!

2008-06-25T18:12:00.000-07:00

I'm six months old today! Here I am playing on the quilt mommy just finished for me. I'm such a happy boy now.

This is me playin' on my new quilt again! It looks like I'm ready for 'take off'.

Yeah!!! I did it!

2008-06-22T08:39:00.001-07:00

Guess what I did! I finally slept in my own room, in my own crib...all by myself, all night! Aren't you proud of me? I slept from 8:30pm to 5:00am! I only woke up once, nursed for 10 minutes, then went right back in my crib (without tears). Mommy & Daddy are so proud of me. That's me smiling because I'm proud of me too.

Guess what else I can do. I can hold my own bottle! I don't do it all the time (sometimes I'm too sleepy) but I think I'm ready for a sippy cup.

I love "reading" (eating) books too.

This is me eating bananas in my new chair mommy & Daddy bought for Grandma's house and our river trips. I'm getting to be such a big boy!

Just some pictures to share

2008-06-19T15:12:00.000-07:00

Father's Day Weekend

2008-06-16T09:24:00.000-07:00

Daddy's first Father's Day was great! Cousin Jennah (and her Mom & Dad) came to visit from Fresno. We had a great weekend BBQing, playing, taking walks, playing and sleeping. I must be going through a growth spurt because Mommy says I slept through half the weekend!

Happy Father's Day Daddy!

Smiling for the camera.
Jennah gives me kisses!

Mommy tried to feed me breakfast, but I fell asleep!

We went for a summer evening stroll (notice I'm asleep....again). PS: That's Daddy's beer, not mine :)

Ryan's Play Date

2008-06-11T16:09:00.000-07:00

Ryan had his first official play date(well, the first one that he didn't sleep through anyway)! Here's Ryan and Makayla...oh, and Bailey.

Wanna play???

Ryan's First Bubble Bath

2008-06-06T18:54:00.000-07:00

Ryan's first bubble bath in the big bathtub. He was so excited to kick his cute little feet in the water and watch the bubbles fly through the air! I'm sure there'll be many more bubble baths in the near future!

Ryan's First River Trip

2008-06-03T16:32:00.000-07:00

London Bridge at Lake Havasu

We survived our first river trip to Lake Havasu as a family! Ryan loves the boat, and falls asleep every time the engine starts. It's been an interesting weekend to say the least. On the way to Havasu the Bigbie's 2 year old, Rylie had to be air lifted to Loma Linda due to a seizure. She's doing fine now, though the fever persists. After the helicopter left, the Swanson Family and our family proceeded on. We stayed in these awesome condos that seemed more like home than a hotel room. Anyway, Saturday and Sunday proved to be two beautiful days to be out on the lake. The weather was perfect and the lake was far from crowded.

As we proceeded home on Monday, Ryan spiked a fever which eventually led us to the ER around 11:30 that evening. His temperature was 102 and he was congested. After a few chest x-rays and some Tylenol, we were able to head back home (at 4:00AM). Ryan was awesome and kept a smile on his face throughout the whole ordeal. His fever continues to persist, however we hope he'll be feeling better by morning.

Gettin' our feet wet!

Daddy & Ryan

Keepin' Ryry out of the sun!

Mommy and Ryan...still sitting in the shade! Ryan must have gotten Mommy's skin!!!

Little Tyler! He's such a cutie. Steven even let him drive the boat this weekend! We were pretty impressed considering the fact that he's only 5!

2008-05-26T17:28:00.000-07:00

Well, we did it! We finally started solid foods. However, I've only had baby cereal and sweet potatoes, but mommy said we'd try carrots tomorrow. So far, so good. I love this new food adventure.

2008-05-24T21:21:00.000-07:00

Ryan & Daddy!