Road Trip! We were off to the Natal's for our first stop. After a yummy dinner, a slumber party, and getting to spend extra time with June and Grace to let RJ and Megan complete their annual Turkey Trot, we kept on going North to Poppa's house. We had some time with The Marty's to plan an adventure to The Discovery Science Center the following day where we would join up with The Kyle's. So much to see and learn while enjoying time with family! We got more time together after we headed back to Poppa's. The Oregon Payne's were in town, so next we went to pay a visit and got to see all of the Payne's and go on a hike in their backyard of Annadel!
Afterward, back at Poppa's, the Marty's and Rydman's preparing for our early ThanksChristmas. Our amazing family accommodated us by doing our family Christmas during Thanksgiving so that we can stay home together on Christmas morning this year. We had a relaxing time hanging out, enjoying each other, exchanging gifts, before a wonderful Prime Rib dinner and plenty of delicious deserts!
Then we headed down the road to Sean and Jamie's who hosted another very successful Thanksgiving feast of Turkey and all the fixings including many shenanigans for the McNatman crew. That Friday morning was full of Christmas and family fun.
We then started our journey home. But took our time as we stopped half way at Harris Ranch. We had a great time going through stockings from Grammy and reminiscing about all the fun we had with our family. Saturday morning we did breakfast at the restaurant before completing our journey back home.
After a day of unpacking and settling in, it was back to work/school. Kaylee's second front tooth had been hanging in there but came out (with Kaylee asking for Mommy's help) during warm up at gymnastics that week. We had a big weekend coming up with the girls gymnastics Holiday Show. That Friday was the dress rehearsal, and Saturday was the Show. Mommy somehow got to be in charge of Pre-Team, and the girl's team as well for the show. The whole family spent the entire Saturday starting at 8 in the morning breaking down the gymnastics center to move it to a larger facility for the show. Coordinating 2 performances, then moving all the equipment back again to the gymnastics center once again! By the end of the evening there were not many volunteers left : )
Both girls had girl scout meetings that Wednesday, and the Brownie's had a fun party with neighborhood caroling on Friday.
Kaylee's daisy Troop has volunteer Millikan High School girls getting community service to teach the girls a fun dance to "I love Rock and Roll". They have had a couple of practices so far. We finally got around to getting our Christmas Tree. We went to the local Snowy Pines "Farm" this year and really enjoyed hanging decorations on the tree set up around an amazing train set. That evening Mommy got to enjoy Ashley's Baby Shower put on next door at the Snow's, then get CPR certified for gymnastics coaching at the YMCA the next day.
Kaylee's daisy troop also did some caroling at a local senior center during the week, Mommy had to give a presentation at work, and Daddy had a White Elephant gift exchange at work. The girls got to use some money to buy gifts for family and friends during school at the Holiday Boutique, and Cienna's class had a farewell pizza party for their student teachers that they had since the beginning of the year.
Amazon has been a big part of these last few weeks. We did make and decorate cookies to bring to a nice get together at Stewart and Ruana's house for more holiday celebrations, but the girls remind me that there are more cookies that we have to make for Santa. To complete this last month we enjoyed another successful birthday party at the Marshall's for Alexis turning 9 and ended the evening joining the Bakx along with Joan and Larry in Naples to view all the amazing Christmas light displays.
Cienna took it upon herself to bring an outfit of an Indian for our Thanksgiving trip, she wore it to both celebrations. She enjoyed helping in the kitchen, she says it's like science and likes mixing ingredients to make something different. Still an amazing student of course and takes pride in her academic accomplishments such as being the only one in class to get 100% on her end of unit math test.
Kaylee is increasing her sense of style, being mad possible with gifts from friend and family. Loves her "really high heel" boots from the Natal's. Often feels like changing her clothes during the day, but Mommy tries to limit wardrobe changes past the morning time to not have so much laundry. She's getting more practice at folding and putting clothes back. Now that she has both front teeth missing she found a new way to whistle. Don't think they'll be coming back in for Christmas. She was quite excited to make her Aerial on the floor for the first time this month and truly enjoys learning routines and dances, her daisy talent show for example!
Porter's best friends are still the birds that cast shadows on the lawn for him to chase, but looks forward to spring when his dragonfly and butterfly friends come back! He likes that he can cuddle on the couch more often without getting too hot.
Enjoy!
https://goo.gl/photos/TK8HYeEUeN5FzSo16
Wednesday, December 21, 2016
Wednesday, November 30, 2016
Cienna - 8 Years, 10 Months!... Kaylee - 6 Years, 5 Months!
The first rain (sort of) of the season,so the first thing we think to do is ride bikes of course! No soccer was cancelled so we all got to play along with prepping Kaylee's classroom pumpkin display which included using a jigsaw to cut out bat wings.
The following week was Red Ribbon Week at school. There was Camouflage, Team Jersey, Hawaiian clothes, Crazy hair/socks, and Tie Dye days. Activities during the week included a Long Beach Police Helicopter landing in the school yard, Kaylee's class made Brazilian fruit dish, more preparation of the large pumpkin display for Kaylee's class, and the Brownies decorated pumpkins at Wardlow park to enter in the pumpkin contest on Friday. Friday also included setting up Kaylee's class pumpkin display, Mommy helped in Cienna's class with their scholar store, and we all got to enjoy dressing up in our homemade costumes for a fun filled Trunk or Treat at school that evening before prepping to bring Halloween themed soccer snacks for both girls games the next day.
We got to finally carve our pumpkins after the games and prepare appetizers for Daddies work pot luck that he had to miss due to a meeting. We also stopped by to wish Ariela a Happy Birthday for a bit. Then Monday was Halloween. The girls were very excited to come home from school that day and dress up again to go Trick or Treating around the neighborhood and with friends. After meeting up with friends soon the girls were just anxious to come home and hand out the candy that they just got from Trick or Treating!
The rest of the week began Student Teacher Conferences and minimum days at school. Both of our girls got fantastic reviews from their teachers although they are little bit different types of students. There also was a Daisy meeting and play dates throughout the week. Then Friday we joined some of the Bakx at the StubHub center to watch USC vs. UCLA women's soccer!
After another weekend of soccer games and daylight saving time we got to be shocked along with most, of who our next president will be. The following day Kaylee lost her 3rd tooth. The Tooth Fairy left her a dinosaur and some silly string which she enjoyed covering Daddy with. That Friday was Veterans Day and there was no school. Mommy spent some time with the girls thinking about those in and out of our family that have served this country.
That weekend was the last soccer games of the season. We celebrated with a family brunch at Crooked Duck followed by a trip to the Aquarium with the Daisy's and their families as well. Since the season had ended it was time for end of the season parties. Kaylee's team's was earlier in the week followed by Cienna's. Mommy and Mac made up special awards for all the players. It was a truly fun season for all. On Friday after the party we were all very excited to leave for a week long adventure to Northern California to visit family the next day, but Cienna was determined to lose her tooth before we left.. and so out came tooth number 9 for her. The next morning the Tooth Fairy left her an activity book, which was perfect for the long car ride ahead!
Before loosing that tooth Cienna had a short orthodontist appointment to make sure her retainer was doing the trick and take some after braces pictures. She has enjoyed helping to cook with Mommy on occasion, but her favorite dish at any time of the day has been salad (specifically lettuce, carrots, and croutons with ranch). She won the award of "Lefty Rocket Shot" due to her memorable first goal this season which was truly a left footed rocket!
Kaylee's dramatic ways keep us laughing, however she has really done well with, not necessarily staying completely away from, but maintaining the friend drama at school. She recognizes when her friends are going overboard and finds others to play with making sure she is friends with everyone. She keeps moving forward with her reading and loves to write, draw, and color. "Speedy Goalzales" was her soccer award for being one of the fastest on her team, despite being the youngest, and using the speed to score goals.
Plenty of pictures until next time!
https://goo.gl/photos/P7ko59iSeKF8jvweA
The following week was Red Ribbon Week at school. There was Camouflage, Team Jersey, Hawaiian clothes, Crazy hair/socks, and Tie Dye days. Activities during the week included a Long Beach Police Helicopter landing in the school yard, Kaylee's class made Brazilian fruit dish, more preparation of the large pumpkin display for Kaylee's class, and the Brownies decorated pumpkins at Wardlow park to enter in the pumpkin contest on Friday. Friday also included setting up Kaylee's class pumpkin display, Mommy helped in Cienna's class with their scholar store, and we all got to enjoy dressing up in our homemade costumes for a fun filled Trunk or Treat at school that evening before prepping to bring Halloween themed soccer snacks for both girls games the next day.
We got to finally carve our pumpkins after the games and prepare appetizers for Daddies work pot luck that he had to miss due to a meeting. We also stopped by to wish Ariela a Happy Birthday for a bit. Then Monday was Halloween. The girls were very excited to come home from school that day and dress up again to go Trick or Treating around the neighborhood and with friends. After meeting up with friends soon the girls were just anxious to come home and hand out the candy that they just got from Trick or Treating!
The rest of the week began Student Teacher Conferences and minimum days at school. Both of our girls got fantastic reviews from their teachers although they are little bit different types of students. There also was a Daisy meeting and play dates throughout the week. Then Friday we joined some of the Bakx at the StubHub center to watch USC vs. UCLA women's soccer!
After another weekend of soccer games and daylight saving time we got to be shocked along with most, of who our next president will be. The following day Kaylee lost her 3rd tooth. The Tooth Fairy left her a dinosaur and some silly string which she enjoyed covering Daddy with. That Friday was Veterans Day and there was no school. Mommy spent some time with the girls thinking about those in and out of our family that have served this country.
That weekend was the last soccer games of the season. We celebrated with a family brunch at Crooked Duck followed by a trip to the Aquarium with the Daisy's and their families as well. Since the season had ended it was time for end of the season parties. Kaylee's team's was earlier in the week followed by Cienna's. Mommy and Mac made up special awards for all the players. It was a truly fun season for all. On Friday after the party we were all very excited to leave for a week long adventure to Northern California to visit family the next day, but Cienna was determined to lose her tooth before we left.. and so out came tooth number 9 for her. The next morning the Tooth Fairy left her an activity book, which was perfect for the long car ride ahead!
Before loosing that tooth Cienna had a short orthodontist appointment to make sure her retainer was doing the trick and take some after braces pictures. She has enjoyed helping to cook with Mommy on occasion, but her favorite dish at any time of the day has been salad (specifically lettuce, carrots, and croutons with ranch). She won the award of "Lefty Rocket Shot" due to her memorable first goal this season which was truly a left footed rocket!
Kaylee's dramatic ways keep us laughing, however she has really done well with, not necessarily staying completely away from, but maintaining the friend drama at school. She recognizes when her friends are going overboard and finds others to play with making sure she is friends with everyone. She keeps moving forward with her reading and loves to write, draw, and color. "Speedy Goalzales" was her soccer award for being one of the fastest on her team, despite being the youngest, and using the speed to score goals.
Plenty of pictures until next time!
https://goo.gl/photos/P7ko59iSeKF8jvweA
Wednesday, October 19, 2016
Cienna - 8 Years, 9 Months!... Kaylee - 6 Years, 4 Months!
Slowing down just isn't our style. After a couple of dentist appointments Daddy and Mommy got to spend time with the teachers at Back to School night to get this school year going! It was during gymnastics, so it was the first time the girls practiced without Mommy. Now that Mommy is officially an employee of the YMCA gymnastics center, it probably won't happen too often : ) It was also book fair week. Kaylee spent her money wisely with help of her teacher, then Mommy got to go during Cienna's time at the end of Wednesday. Just so happened that the power went out right in the middle, and it was a cool 90 degrees. We all made it through just fine until midnight when the power finally turned back on.
Kamryn came over for a play date on Grandpa Kim's birthday before the first soccer and party weekend. We all enjoyed Haiden's wonderfully planned out reptile Birthday after soccer. Then we enjoyed a family brunch on Sunday before creating a bike train to venture around the neighborhood.
Cienna got her braces off after 15 months for this first phase. Kaylee enjoyed making Australian pikelets (sweet pancakes) with her class. Then the girls got free dress for picture day at school.
The next soccer/party weekend included Carver's first birthday party which was right up our alley being Circus theme in the middle of our soccer games! Next we went to Ulysse's Knight themed 9th Birthday down the street. That Sunday, Daddy went to help out Mac tear down a wall in preparation for a new 13' header to support a sliding glass door.
One week after braces came off, Cienna got her retainer. After one day of help she mastered taking it on and off by herself. The end of that week was a successful Carver Olympics which Mommy got to watch the girls meet some Olympians and see their medals up close before engaging in their own Olympic games.
Since Halloween is coming, the girls truly enjoyed deciding on and designing their costumes and going to the fabric store to make the idea a reality! Mommy had a wonderful time making them with a sewing machine that didn't need to be fixed one time and the girls made Mommy and Daddy some interesting costumes as well in the meantime.
We had a short but wonderful visit with Uncle RJ and Auntie Megan who came in Saturday night to run in the LB half marathon on Sunday morning before we got to all hang out and enjoy a great brunch before they set off back to Norther Cal. and we headed to Tanaka Farms for a Daisy excursion. We got to take a trailer ride around the farm, go to a corn maze, a petting zoo, pick some veggies, and then the girls got to pick any pumpkin from the patch that they could carry to the check out lane. The only caveat is that it couldn't be over 20 lbs. Of course both of them were. Cienna's was just over and they almost didn't let Kaylee keep hers since it was closer to 23lbs. But she did carry it almost a quarter mile by herself and so they let her take it if she carried it the rest of the way to the parking lot.
Class picture day came before the Friday that included a Brownie meeting (also a play date with Addy for Mommy and Kaylee), followed by Cienna going to Paint and Glaze for Shawna's 9th Birthday while Kaylee, Mommy, and Daddy went to date night nearby. That Saturday we all played soccer yet again and Daddy got in the 4th game of the day refereeing to earn volunteer credits for Cienna's team. Sunday Mommy played another game and a half of soccer, Daddy started brew for the Thanksgiving holiday, we set up Halloween decorations, tracked down the ice cream man for the girls very first time, and got a hand me down bike that is just right for Cienna and just right for Kaylee to move up to Cienna's old one.
School is underway and Cienna is so excited to be learning so many new things including more advanced multiplication, and writing cursive. She has aced her spelling, math, and science tests so far. The girls are all maturing a little, so it is interesting to here about all the new drama that is happening, however Cienna's goal is to stop the drama and all be friends :) She thought it was funny to be getting her braces off when 3 of her classmates were just getting them on. She was excited, but wasn't so sure about the retainer. Once she got used to it (in a a day) she thought it was neat to be the only third grader to have one.
Kaylee is excelling in reading and becoming more confident everyday. She easily has the best handwriting in her class... probably in the family. She may not get all words correct in her practice spelling test but works hard during the week and has gotten all of them correct on her final tests! She's got math down, and is loving the science projects as well. She gets to now use Cienna's bigger bike when we go on family runs which makes us nervous because she had already been pacing us with 8 minute miles (until we tell her to slow down) on her tiny bike which she had to pedal twice as fast... uh oh.
Life is GOOD.
https://goo.gl/photos/uvR4jjzZMfeYFj936
Kamryn came over for a play date on Grandpa Kim's birthday before the first soccer and party weekend. We all enjoyed Haiden's wonderfully planned out reptile Birthday after soccer. Then we enjoyed a family brunch on Sunday before creating a bike train to venture around the neighborhood.
Cienna got her braces off after 15 months for this first phase. Kaylee enjoyed making Australian pikelets (sweet pancakes) with her class. Then the girls got free dress for picture day at school.
The next soccer/party weekend included Carver's first birthday party which was right up our alley being Circus theme in the middle of our soccer games! Next we went to Ulysse's Knight themed 9th Birthday down the street. That Sunday, Daddy went to help out Mac tear down a wall in preparation for a new 13' header to support a sliding glass door.
One week after braces came off, Cienna got her retainer. After one day of help she mastered taking it on and off by herself. The end of that week was a successful Carver Olympics which Mommy got to watch the girls meet some Olympians and see their medals up close before engaging in their own Olympic games.
Since Halloween is coming, the girls truly enjoyed deciding on and designing their costumes and going to the fabric store to make the idea a reality! Mommy had a wonderful time making them with a sewing machine that didn't need to be fixed one time and the girls made Mommy and Daddy some interesting costumes as well in the meantime.
We had a short but wonderful visit with Uncle RJ and Auntie Megan who came in Saturday night to run in the LB half marathon on Sunday morning before we got to all hang out and enjoy a great brunch before they set off back to Norther Cal. and we headed to Tanaka Farms for a Daisy excursion. We got to take a trailer ride around the farm, go to a corn maze, a petting zoo, pick some veggies, and then the girls got to pick any pumpkin from the patch that they could carry to the check out lane. The only caveat is that it couldn't be over 20 lbs. Of course both of them were. Cienna's was just over and they almost didn't let Kaylee keep hers since it was closer to 23lbs. But she did carry it almost a quarter mile by herself and so they let her take it if she carried it the rest of the way to the parking lot.
Class picture day came before the Friday that included a Brownie meeting (also a play date with Addy for Mommy and Kaylee), followed by Cienna going to Paint and Glaze for Shawna's 9th Birthday while Kaylee, Mommy, and Daddy went to date night nearby. That Saturday we all played soccer yet again and Daddy got in the 4th game of the day refereeing to earn volunteer credits for Cienna's team. Sunday Mommy played another game and a half of soccer, Daddy started brew for the Thanksgiving holiday, we set up Halloween decorations, tracked down the ice cream man for the girls very first time, and got a hand me down bike that is just right for Cienna and just right for Kaylee to move up to Cienna's old one.
School is underway and Cienna is so excited to be learning so many new things including more advanced multiplication, and writing cursive. She has aced her spelling, math, and science tests so far. The girls are all maturing a little, so it is interesting to here about all the new drama that is happening, however Cienna's goal is to stop the drama and all be friends :) She thought it was funny to be getting her braces off when 3 of her classmates were just getting them on. She was excited, but wasn't so sure about the retainer. Once she got used to it (in a a day) she thought it was neat to be the only third grader to have one.
Kaylee is excelling in reading and becoming more confident everyday. She easily has the best handwriting in her class... probably in the family. She may not get all words correct in her practice spelling test but works hard during the week and has gotten all of them correct on her final tests! She's got math down, and is loving the science projects as well. She gets to now use Cienna's bigger bike when we go on family runs which makes us nervous because she had already been pacing us with 8 minute miles (until we tell her to slow down) on her tiny bike which she had to pedal twice as fast... uh oh.
Life is GOOD.
https://goo.gl/photos/uvR4jjzZMfeYFj936
Thursday, September 22, 2016
Cienna - 8 Years, 8 Months!... Kaylee - 6 Years, 3 Months!
Since we were on top of things 6 months ago we got to start this last month camping with friends in Carpenteria. Even though Mommy had to run alone since Steph couldn't make it we still had a blast. While we were there we got to play on the beach, go on a night bike ride with the kids, eat s'mores for breakfast, walk through town and visit a couple breweries, and enjoy the company. When we got home we headed straight to a pool party for the Daisy troop at a neighbors house.
Following that weekend we got to have Lula around for the last week of summer break before school. During which the girls had easy doctors appointments, we splurged on a couple brunches out, and had plenty of frozen yogurt. Mommy and Daddy (finally according to Daddy) got new phones. They do happen to take better pictures. In the middle of the week we went to Pump It Up to celebrate Lacy's Birthday. When we got home Kaylee found a book on our doorstep from her soon to be 1st grade Teacher, Ms. Ahrens. We did plenty of backyard fun including plays with friends, and also went to the Bay one last summer day. The girls had joined the Barnes and Nobles summer book club, so we turned in their filled out reading log forms and they each were rewarded with a free book of their choice!
Then all of a sudden we had 1st and 3rd graders. They of course loved the first day of school and each day since. Their teachers are wonderful and they get to see all their friends. This year they are now going to Ms. Delaney's after school on the days both Mommy and Daddy work. They are spoiled there, well taken care of, and love it.
We went to a back to school birthday celebration for Bella at a local swimming pool memorial weekend as well as had a couple of BBQ's of course. Kaylee's first daisy meeting of the year was the following week as we prepared for our first soccer games of the season.
That was the day that the much anticipated healthy arrival of Jackson Richard Sklenicka occurred. He was greeted by his amazing parents. We all can't wait to meet him!!!
That weekend started with three games in a row including an extra game that Mark volunteered to referee. All starting around 9:30 heading to Mommy and Daddy's and ending around 4 after both of the girls games. The girls did fantastic and truly enjoyed themselves. The next day we walked to a neighbors backward to celebrate Nicki's backward birthday party, you know presents and cake first, etc : )
It was then Cienna's turn with her first Brownie meeting before the next big weekend that included another 2 soccer games intermixed with two separate soccer picture times. After that run around all morning we ventured off for an exciting camping trip in the Bakx's backyard. We spent the day socializing, swimming, and playing Kan Jam before setting up our tent and a super cool outdoor movie projected onto their house playing The Jungle Book. Somehow they got s'mores again for breakfast since they didn't get brought out the night before. Later that afternoon the girls were rewarded at a gymnastics team banquet. And we ended the month with some pretend "go cart" building out of random garage materials.
Cienna was recognized for her first year on the gymnastics team and also got a special award for being the gymnast that represented the YMCA spirit! Her favorite accomplishment by far is scoring a goal during her second game for her very first time ever in a game. It was the only goal for her team that game. And she would also mention that it was with her left foot : ) She is happy to be back in school and has already been acknowledged by her teacher as being a super scholar. She is one of very few classmates that has gotten to "move her status up" from scholar to super scholar behavior so far this year.
Kaylee was awarded for moving up a level in the gymnastics team program. Still being the shortest on her soccer team, she is certainly one of the fastest and can control the ball all the way into the goal. She's enjoying her class with some new and some old friends. Making friends is certainly one of her strengths. She has talked a lot about the math that she is learning and loves her teacher, who happened to be Cienna's 2nd grade teacher last year.
They both continue to love music, and making up dances and plays together. We certainly enjoy simply watching them grow and are doing what we can to make the most of our time together.
Click the link for pictures of the month...
https://goo.gl/photos/sxSTqaEZNSvNchGN9
Following that weekend we got to have Lula around for the last week of summer break before school. During which the girls had easy doctors appointments, we splurged on a couple brunches out, and had plenty of frozen yogurt. Mommy and Daddy (finally according to Daddy) got new phones. They do happen to take better pictures. In the middle of the week we went to Pump It Up to celebrate Lacy's Birthday. When we got home Kaylee found a book on our doorstep from her soon to be 1st grade Teacher, Ms. Ahrens. We did plenty of backyard fun including plays with friends, and also went to the Bay one last summer day. The girls had joined the Barnes and Nobles summer book club, so we turned in their filled out reading log forms and they each were rewarded with a free book of their choice!
Then all of a sudden we had 1st and 3rd graders. They of course loved the first day of school and each day since. Their teachers are wonderful and they get to see all their friends. This year they are now going to Ms. Delaney's after school on the days both Mommy and Daddy work. They are spoiled there, well taken care of, and love it.
We went to a back to school birthday celebration for Bella at a local swimming pool memorial weekend as well as had a couple of BBQ's of course. Kaylee's first daisy meeting of the year was the following week as we prepared for our first soccer games of the season.
That was the day that the much anticipated healthy arrival of Jackson Richard Sklenicka occurred. He was greeted by his amazing parents. We all can't wait to meet him!!!
That weekend started with three games in a row including an extra game that Mark volunteered to referee. All starting around 9:30 heading to Mommy and Daddy's and ending around 4 after both of the girls games. The girls did fantastic and truly enjoyed themselves. The next day we walked to a neighbors backward to celebrate Nicki's backward birthday party, you know presents and cake first, etc : )
It was then Cienna's turn with her first Brownie meeting before the next big weekend that included another 2 soccer games intermixed with two separate soccer picture times. After that run around all morning we ventured off for an exciting camping trip in the Bakx's backyard. We spent the day socializing, swimming, and playing Kan Jam before setting up our tent and a super cool outdoor movie projected onto their house playing The Jungle Book. Somehow they got s'mores again for breakfast since they didn't get brought out the night before. Later that afternoon the girls were rewarded at a gymnastics team banquet. And we ended the month with some pretend "go cart" building out of random garage materials.
Cienna was recognized for her first year on the gymnastics team and also got a special award for being the gymnast that represented the YMCA spirit! Her favorite accomplishment by far is scoring a goal during her second game for her very first time ever in a game. It was the only goal for her team that game. And she would also mention that it was with her left foot : ) She is happy to be back in school and has already been acknowledged by her teacher as being a super scholar. She is one of very few classmates that has gotten to "move her status up" from scholar to super scholar behavior so far this year.
Kaylee was awarded for moving up a level in the gymnastics team program. Still being the shortest on her soccer team, she is certainly one of the fastest and can control the ball all the way into the goal. She's enjoying her class with some new and some old friends. Making friends is certainly one of her strengths. She has talked a lot about the math that she is learning and loves her teacher, who happened to be Cienna's 2nd grade teacher last year.
They both continue to love music, and making up dances and plays together. We certainly enjoy simply watching them grow and are doing what we can to make the most of our time together.
Click the link for pictures of the month...
https://goo.gl/photos/sxSTqaEZNSvNchGN9
Friday, August 19, 2016
Cienna - 8 Years, 7 Months!... Kaylee - 6 Years, 2 Months!
We began with celebrating a magnificent life! Nana's memorial was beautiful! We had a nice drive up to Kenwood where we got to spend time setting up for the party and hanging out with close family. The Marty's, the Kyle's, Heather, Erik, Brittany, and us headed to Doran Beach for a day. It was a great day full of wonderful memories! After heading back to Kenwood we finished prepping and were ready to welcome many friends and family for a wonderful party with good food, laughter, and more stories about how many lives Dawn had influenced in such great ways!
After heading back home Cienna got to go to a movie and lunch with her previous teacher and a great friend who had chosen Cienna after winning the day at the end of the school year. While Cienna was off, Mommy and Kaylee spent time together going bowling and winning prizes in an arcade. That Friday we went to see an art gallery of all the work the girls have been doing during the summer at camp.
Then we spent some time with friends at Rocketship Park, had a summer pool party at the Chavez house, and went to Dana's brothers house in Orange County for a Sklenicka baby shower! The arrival is quickly approaching.
We had a family breakfast out before our first of many soccer practices this fall. Kaylee's team was up first and Mommy and Mac get to coach.
The girls got an in home hair cut before we all got to enjoy the rehearsal dinner in Santa Monica with Uncle B and Stephanie's families. The next day was the wedding, so Daddy headed off after soccer to help Uncle B prepare. Mommy took Kaylee to a small horseback riding and pizza Birthday Party for Blake, and Cienna got to hang out with Kyra again at the Children's Museum of Art and a Farmers Market lunch.
Mommy took an Uber to meet Daddy for the wedding and the girls stayed at the Snow's for a short while till the Natal's came to watch them for the evening. The girls were spoiled with dinner at Islands and time with the Natal's as Mommy and Daddy got an evening to spend celebrating Brandon and Stephanie.
We loved our time with the Natal's before they headed off for the rest of their vacation in San Diego. They even somehow made it through a night of an all cousin sleep over in the same room!
Then the second soccer practice happened, this time it was for Cienna's team, and guess what, Mommy and Mac get to coach! There happened to not be enough coaches for the U10 league, so of course we decided to volunteer for that too.
Mommy got a night to go to see her once a decade : ) movie, "Bad Mom's" with friends after a gymnastics night. That weekend she also did her U8 and U10 soccer coach training. Afterwards the family went over to the beach to an amazing sand sculpture contest along with the accompanying art and music festival. We finished off the day by going to watch Ricky play Dopey in the Snow White children's play.
A great trip with friends at the tide pools finding crabs, fish, and other sea creatures concluded the month before we head off to our last camping trip of the year.
Cienna's favorite part about Whaley Summer Camp has been the theater acting rotation. She found that being more coordinated in general makes soccer easier, loved hanging out with Ms. Ahrens away from school and can't wait for school to start next year. She is finishing up her math book that Ms. Ahrens gave her as a challenge for summer break. She found out at her last orthodontist appointment that she will be getting off her braces after this first phase at the next appointment in the end of September.
Kaylee is again the youngest on her soccer team, but it's hard to tell since she is so fast and strong. She had an amazing first time horseback riding. She got the spunkiest horse named "Dollar" which was perfect for the spunkiest girl. It kept kicking and jumping. She just went along with it and held on! She has been working a lot on reading and looking forward to first grade. She continues to love helping out and making others happy when she can, as well as pushing red buttons whenever possible : )
Click the link for pictures......
https://goo.gl/photos/7tdZwisfk7rtwrET6
After heading back home Cienna got to go to a movie and lunch with her previous teacher and a great friend who had chosen Cienna after winning the day at the end of the school year. While Cienna was off, Mommy and Kaylee spent time together going bowling and winning prizes in an arcade. That Friday we went to see an art gallery of all the work the girls have been doing during the summer at camp.
Then we spent some time with friends at Rocketship Park, had a summer pool party at the Chavez house, and went to Dana's brothers house in Orange County for a Sklenicka baby shower! The arrival is quickly approaching.
We had a family breakfast out before our first of many soccer practices this fall. Kaylee's team was up first and Mommy and Mac get to coach.
The girls got an in home hair cut before we all got to enjoy the rehearsal dinner in Santa Monica with Uncle B and Stephanie's families. The next day was the wedding, so Daddy headed off after soccer to help Uncle B prepare. Mommy took Kaylee to a small horseback riding and pizza Birthday Party for Blake, and Cienna got to hang out with Kyra again at the Children's Museum of Art and a Farmers Market lunch.
Mommy took an Uber to meet Daddy for the wedding and the girls stayed at the Snow's for a short while till the Natal's came to watch them for the evening. The girls were spoiled with dinner at Islands and time with the Natal's as Mommy and Daddy got an evening to spend celebrating Brandon and Stephanie.
We loved our time with the Natal's before they headed off for the rest of their vacation in San Diego. They even somehow made it through a night of an all cousin sleep over in the same room!
Then the second soccer practice happened, this time it was for Cienna's team, and guess what, Mommy and Mac get to coach! There happened to not be enough coaches for the U10 league, so of course we decided to volunteer for that too.
Mommy got a night to go to see her once a decade : ) movie, "Bad Mom's" with friends after a gymnastics night. That weekend she also did her U8 and U10 soccer coach training. Afterwards the family went over to the beach to an amazing sand sculpture contest along with the accompanying art and music festival. We finished off the day by going to watch Ricky play Dopey in the Snow White children's play.
A great trip with friends at the tide pools finding crabs, fish, and other sea creatures concluded the month before we head off to our last camping trip of the year.
Cienna's favorite part about Whaley Summer Camp has been the theater acting rotation. She found that being more coordinated in general makes soccer easier, loved hanging out with Ms. Ahrens away from school and can't wait for school to start next year. She is finishing up her math book that Ms. Ahrens gave her as a challenge for summer break. She found out at her last orthodontist appointment that she will be getting off her braces after this first phase at the next appointment in the end of September.
Kaylee is again the youngest on her soccer team, but it's hard to tell since she is so fast and strong. She had an amazing first time horseback riding. She got the spunkiest horse named "Dollar" which was perfect for the spunkiest girl. It kept kicking and jumping. She just went along with it and held on! She has been working a lot on reading and looking forward to first grade. She continues to love helping out and making others happy when she can, as well as pushing red buttons whenever possible : )
Click the link for pictures......
https://goo.gl/photos/7tdZwisfk7rtwrET6
Tuesday, July 26, 2016
Cienna - 8 Years, 6 Months!... Kaylee - 6 Years, 1 Month!
Father's Day started off this last month. With Poppa and the Marty's we exchanged gifts of love for the Daddy's before we started our caravan to Vegas as our first stop of what was a fabulous road trip! On the way we hit up Peggy Sue's Diner for lunch, and also got stuck in traffic due to an accident. We finally arrived at Circus Circus and had a buffet dinner. We walked a little along the strip and got to see part of a circus act before heading to bed ready to head to our next stop in Williams, Arizona.
We took some Dam pictures as we detoured over the Hoover Dam, and of course stopped for ice cream along route 66 in the town that the movie "Cars" was based after. The campsite and people were great, even giving us stuff for smores once the campfire was lit. The site was near the playground and the kids made some nice friends to play with. But our train ride to the Grand Canyon was the highlight of that stop. There was a cowboy show before the ride, and Poppa treated us with tickets in the observation deck for the trip there. The view and entertainment made for a great ride. The Grand Canyon was breathtaking! We saw many of the views and visited the souvenir shops. We also got first class on the way back to the campsite. We saw robbers ride along the train on their horses, then they stopped us in our tracks and boarded the train. They walked through every cart and took our "hidden" $1 bills.
Hitting the road again to Page, Arizona we turned off the road to learn about the Worlds best preserved meteor crater. We all learned some interesting science and enjoyed the gift shop as well. While in Page we took a hot sandy hike to Horseshoe Bend on the Colorado River. It was very beautiful and our third but not last very long drop. After our one night stay, we were getting pretty good at setting up and taking down our tent.
We went straight to Zion Utah from there. The campsite was full of amenities. We loved playing in the pool, there were kits for the kids to pan for jewels, even a golf cart driving around playing candy trivia. We played many games, told stories, and the kids even put on a play for us. Our big adventure was to the Zion National Park. We took the tour bus to a stop at the top and took the first of our three amazing hikes. The weeping rocks were fascinating, and nothing compared to the grand mountain walls the were surrounding us. One of our other hikes ended in a couple of waterfalls to cool us off. We found ourselves within walking distance of the Zion brewery as we were headed back to the campsite, so we had to get some tasters.
We parted ways with Poppa and the Marty's as we drove the whole way home so we had a day before going back to work. Starting that Wednesday it was all about hosting the YMCA Nationals meet at the Long Beach Convention Center. We got our workouts in setting up and taking down three gyms worth of equipment. The whole event went very smooth due to all the parent volunteers. The kids also had so much fun. The opening ceremony had every gymnast and their families gathered to celebrate all the accomplishments. The girls really enjoyed performing and it was great to see them so proud of themselves. It was a great event to be a part of.
That Monday was 4th of July and we started the fun with friends, swimming, and music in the Bakx's new pool. Afterward we went home to end the night with the neighbors, fireworks, and sparklers.
We had some impromptu play dates with more plays, we made Jello, and went to the park before Mommy was going to be on her way to Santa Barbara to spend quality time with 9 of her best girlfriends from high school. Since the trucks check engine light was on, we figured to get it checked out before taking it on another trip. Unfortunately we got bad news that it needed an engine replacement. So we got our first of three rental cars.
It was great to have a travel partner after Mommy picked up Abbey at the airport on the way. The girls spent some very relaxing time talking and catching up, laughing out loud, being crazy and having a great time in a beautiful home and location. Daddy took the girls to the park and spoiled them with a morning out to breakfast. Mommy had fun but sure did miss the rest of the family quite a bit!
The final weekend we traded in our economy rental for a pick-up truck so we could take all of our camping gear to Dogwood. We met up with the Bakx, and Ferrario's. It was nice to camp in the forest. There was bike riding, trail hiking, and we took one day to swim in Lake Gregory. After games, and antics we stopped by Lake Arrowhead for lunch before heading home to switch out the truck for our third car rental and prepare for the next adventure!
Cienna has loved directing plays to put on with her friends. Gymnastics continues to be one of her favorites, front handsprings are a new trick for her. She really enjoyed getting to pick out small souvenirs during our road trip, and used one of her gift cards to buy the fourth Land of Stories from Barnes and Noble.
On Independence Day, Kaylee held her first sparkler. She loves to entertain with her antics, singing, dancing, and overall big personality. She also continues to enjoy the times by herself playing pretend with her toys. Her love for babies and animals is very apparent anytime they are around, it makes her feel responsible when she can help.
These girls together are completely amazing travelers. They self entertain as well as play together in the car even for the long haul. They like to know the plan ahead of time, but can also go with the flow when it gets switched up. We have so much fun together whether it's a crazy busy day, or just spending time alone at home. We are lucky to have each other as well as great friends and family!
Many beautiful sights to see below, and the scenery is nice also.
We took some Dam pictures as we detoured over the Hoover Dam, and of course stopped for ice cream along route 66 in the town that the movie "Cars" was based after. The campsite and people were great, even giving us stuff for smores once the campfire was lit. The site was near the playground and the kids made some nice friends to play with. But our train ride to the Grand Canyon was the highlight of that stop. There was a cowboy show before the ride, and Poppa treated us with tickets in the observation deck for the trip there. The view and entertainment made for a great ride. The Grand Canyon was breathtaking! We saw many of the views and visited the souvenir shops. We also got first class on the way back to the campsite. We saw robbers ride along the train on their horses, then they stopped us in our tracks and boarded the train. They walked through every cart and took our "hidden" $1 bills.
Hitting the road again to Page, Arizona we turned off the road to learn about the Worlds best preserved meteor crater. We all learned some interesting science and enjoyed the gift shop as well. While in Page we took a hot sandy hike to Horseshoe Bend on the Colorado River. It was very beautiful and our third but not last very long drop. After our one night stay, we were getting pretty good at setting up and taking down our tent.
We went straight to Zion Utah from there. The campsite was full of amenities. We loved playing in the pool, there were kits for the kids to pan for jewels, even a golf cart driving around playing candy trivia. We played many games, told stories, and the kids even put on a play for us. Our big adventure was to the Zion National Park. We took the tour bus to a stop at the top and took the first of our three amazing hikes. The weeping rocks were fascinating, and nothing compared to the grand mountain walls the were surrounding us. One of our other hikes ended in a couple of waterfalls to cool us off. We found ourselves within walking distance of the Zion brewery as we were headed back to the campsite, so we had to get some tasters.
We parted ways with Poppa and the Marty's as we drove the whole way home so we had a day before going back to work. Starting that Wednesday it was all about hosting the YMCA Nationals meet at the Long Beach Convention Center. We got our workouts in setting up and taking down three gyms worth of equipment. The whole event went very smooth due to all the parent volunteers. The kids also had so much fun. The opening ceremony had every gymnast and their families gathered to celebrate all the accomplishments. The girls really enjoyed performing and it was great to see them so proud of themselves. It was a great event to be a part of.
That Monday was 4th of July and we started the fun with friends, swimming, and music in the Bakx's new pool. Afterward we went home to end the night with the neighbors, fireworks, and sparklers.
We had some impromptu play dates with more plays, we made Jello, and went to the park before Mommy was going to be on her way to Santa Barbara to spend quality time with 9 of her best girlfriends from high school. Since the trucks check engine light was on, we figured to get it checked out before taking it on another trip. Unfortunately we got bad news that it needed an engine replacement. So we got our first of three rental cars.
It was great to have a travel partner after Mommy picked up Abbey at the airport on the way. The girls spent some very relaxing time talking and catching up, laughing out loud, being crazy and having a great time in a beautiful home and location. Daddy took the girls to the park and spoiled them with a morning out to breakfast. Mommy had fun but sure did miss the rest of the family quite a bit!
The final weekend we traded in our economy rental for a pick-up truck so we could take all of our camping gear to Dogwood. We met up with the Bakx, and Ferrario's. It was nice to camp in the forest. There was bike riding, trail hiking, and we took one day to swim in Lake Gregory. After games, and antics we stopped by Lake Arrowhead for lunch before heading home to switch out the truck for our third car rental and prepare for the next adventure!
Cienna has loved directing plays to put on with her friends. Gymnastics continues to be one of her favorites, front handsprings are a new trick for her. She really enjoyed getting to pick out small souvenirs during our road trip, and used one of her gift cards to buy the fourth Land of Stories from Barnes and Noble.
On Independence Day, Kaylee held her first sparkler. She loves to entertain with her antics, singing, dancing, and overall big personality. She also continues to enjoy the times by herself playing pretend with her toys. Her love for babies and animals is very apparent anytime they are around, it makes her feel responsible when she can help.
These girls together are completely amazing travelers. They self entertain as well as play together in the car even for the long haul. They like to know the plan ahead of time, but can also go with the flow when it gets switched up. We have so much fun together whether it's a crazy busy day, or just spending time alone at home. We are lucky to have each other as well as great friends and family!
Many beautiful sights to see below, and the scenery is nice also.
Sunday, June 26, 2016
Cienna - 8 Years, 5 Months!... Kaylee - 6 Years!
This was quite another busy month as school came to an end
and we made our way to summer. The
annual Carver Carnival was fun we learned about sea lions at the marine mammal
center with the Daisy troop. The
brownies went to "Bold Girlz" to learn to sew dresses out of pillow cases to
donate while the younger siblings toured around the Spectrum. We had some projects to complete which
included Kaylee’s Sea animal project where we made clay to mold a Sea
Star. We also fixed up our front gates
and painted to match the rest of the backyard.
After lots of hard work the girls guided us through their classrooms for
Back to School night. Cienna got to do a
practice play for the 2nd and 3rd graders and half of the
Kindergarten, including Kaylee. She felt
like a star walking around school : )
One weekend The Donlon’s were practicing for summer by
inviting us over for a pool party and dinner.
Another, we got to head to San Diego and see the Sklenicka’s new pad
along with the growing belly bump. During
the following week the Daisy’s had their end of year party at
Build-a-Bear. The next weekend while
Daddy flew away to Tahoe with Uncle B for his Bachelor party, the girls kept
busy with a day trip to Escondido where Cienna and Kaylee got to show off their
gymnastics skills at the YMCA State meet.
The following morning we were fourth in line in the caravan to kidnap
the rest of the Brownies at their homes for a surprise breakfast followed by a
beach clean-up/play day.
Our first set of visitors were Grammy and Grandpa who drove
here to see Cienna in her big night as The Wicked Witch! She had a big crowd that came to watch
including Uncle B., the Bakx, and The Netters and she nailed it!
The Brownies end of the year party was an indoor rock
climbing facility. It was the first time
for many of them including Cienna and Kaylee.
They had a great time making it to the top of many different climbing
walls!
We took Cienna out of class briefly to watch as Kaylee and
the rest of the kindergartners made us cry with their song performance for
their Kindergarten Celebration/Graduation.
That weekend as we prepared for Kaylee’s Birthday and the upcoming road
trip, Abbey came to play. We all went to
lunch, then Mommy and Abbey spent the evening catching up along with Maisie
sharing a room in a nearby Mariott.
Meanwhile Cienna was invited to an Angel’s game with Brynn and her
family as Daddy and Kaylee got to spend time together.
That next week the Natal girls came to town for birthday
Shenanigans. June and Grace came to
class on Kaylee’s birthday and joined the class pizza and popsicle party while
Auntie Megan got her tires fixed since they had gotten flat on the Grapevine
during their trip the night before. We
all then got frozen yogurt after school, Kaylee’s choice. Dinner that evening was also requested by
Kaylee.
The following day was the last day of school. The Natal girls picked them up since Mommy
and Daddy were working. It’s a little
surreal to think that this school year has already come to an end. That evening the Marty crew and Poppa also
joined our party with the RV. On Friday
The Marty’s and Poppa spent the whole day in Universal Studios as The Rydman
and Natal Girls celebrated Auntie Megan’s actual and Kaylee’s extended birthday
with a full and eventful day at Disneyland.
Still continuing Kaylee’s birthday we had her party that Saturday morning where all the friends got to make their own pizzas that cooked while they all played then decorated cupcakes to take home. They enjoyed their lunch that they made and Kaylee enjoyed as we all sang to her and ate cake. After the party the Natal’s started home and we headed to Sierra’s High School graduation party to celebrate and take a quick dip in their pool. Lastly we finally had a wee bit of time to pack for the BIG ROAD TRIP next week through 4 states!
Still continuing Kaylee’s birthday we had her party that Saturday morning where all the friends got to make their own pizzas that cooked while they all played then decorated cupcakes to take home. They enjoyed their lunch that they made and Kaylee enjoyed as we all sang to her and ate cake. After the party the Natal’s started home and we headed to Sierra’s High School graduation party to celebrate and take a quick dip in their pool. Lastly we finally had a wee bit of time to pack for the BIG ROAD TRIP next week through 4 states!
Kaylee sailed her way through Kindergarten making many new
friends and enjoying her time with Ms. Ashcraft. Her achievement report of course was
representative of her successful year. And
then she turned 6. She is so vibrant and
full of personality. We can’t believe
that six years has flown by. She truly
enjoyed all of her on going birthday celebrations that included so much
family. After getting birthday cake
flavored gum from Auntie Bridget she was allowed to chew it for the first time,
and she of course managed to get it stuck in her hair.
Cienna also had a big month that included the completion of
2nd grade. She got of course
got rave reviews from her teacher, and is more than ready for 3rd
grade. There were many field trips to
round out the school year. Her class
went to the Animal Shelter and park picnic, then aquarium, and an entire park
day at Wardlow. She got to compete in
her first gymnastics meet at a different gymnastics center. Her highlight of the month was performing as
the Wicked Witch in the school play that she has been practicing for and
anticipating since the middle of April.
She can’t wait to try out for the next play!
Sorry for the lengthy write up, but we are surely enjoying
our family time! Click below to see pictures of this last month.
Wednesday, May 18, 2016
Cienna - 8 Years, 4 Months!... Kaylee - 5 Years, 11 Months!
The first Birthday party this month started with the girls learning how to roller skate for the first time. Followed by Paisley's Minnie themed party.
Daddy and Mommy finally finished putting together a jockey box that Daddy has wanted for a while, just in time for him to bring to his Birthday Homebrew festival weekend.
While Daddy was off with friends enjoying his camping, the girls supported a local food drive earning a girl scout patch, went to see a local children's play with one of their Kindergarten friends, Ricky, in it. He was one of the Monkey's in "The Jungle Book". They also enjoyed going to Open Gym, and plenty of Frozen Yogurt.
The next week we celebrated Daddy's Birthday at home with a steak dinner, and plenty of amazingly creative homemade gifts from the girls! We had lemon meringue as well! The daisies had a no mom meeting to make a wonderful gift for Mother's day, the mom's met up a couple days later to discuss next years activities.
We were all invited for a relaxing brunch at Joan and Larry's for Mother's day so we didn't have time for our normal tradition of tailgating at Lowe's parking lot while eating bagels. However we did make one trip to Lowe's and tailgated with tostada dinner in our driveway. Mommy was also showered with homemade crafts full of love from the girls!
The following Wednesday rest of the family joined Cienna at school for lunch to celebrate her week as scholar of the week. Afterward Daddy read a book to her class and Mommy and Daddy watched as she got to share some of her mementos with the class.
Toward the end of the Month there was another Daisy meeting, and a Brownie meeting that Mommy got to help be the leader. We enjoyed one evening at the Carver Straw Hat fundraiser for dinner before our final weekend celebrating Mac's 40th Birthday bash. The girls enjoyed spending time with Sierra so Mommy and Daddy could enjoy the fiesta together.
Throughout the month we also had fun reading books, playing on the trampoline, having play dates, and even a couple of trips to the park.
Cienna's looking forward to her Wizard of Oz performance coming this next month which she has been practicing. She had gym pictures done for the Nationals brochure. She completed her round-off back handspring by herself but still needs to practice for confidence. She finished a hat that she has been knitting, and enjoyed her scholar of the week.
Kaylee really enjoyed learning how to skate, and loves to dress up and play act. Her creativeness continues to shine through in her actions. Just as always, she still tries to eat anything that is in front of her. She was also very proud, as were we, scoring a 100% on her curriculum math test.
Things are only getting more busy and this school year is coming to an end...... We can't believe this school year is coming to an end : (
Daddy and Mommy finally finished putting together a jockey box that Daddy has wanted for a while, just in time for him to bring to his Birthday Homebrew festival weekend.
While Daddy was off with friends enjoying his camping, the girls supported a local food drive earning a girl scout patch, went to see a local children's play with one of their Kindergarten friends, Ricky, in it. He was one of the Monkey's in "The Jungle Book". They also enjoyed going to Open Gym, and plenty of Frozen Yogurt.
The next week we celebrated Daddy's Birthday at home with a steak dinner, and plenty of amazingly creative homemade gifts from the girls! We had lemon meringue as well! The daisies had a no mom meeting to make a wonderful gift for Mother's day, the mom's met up a couple days later to discuss next years activities.
We were all invited for a relaxing brunch at Joan and Larry's for Mother's day so we didn't have time for our normal tradition of tailgating at Lowe's parking lot while eating bagels. However we did make one trip to Lowe's and tailgated with tostada dinner in our driveway. Mommy was also showered with homemade crafts full of love from the girls!
The following Wednesday rest of the family joined Cienna at school for lunch to celebrate her week as scholar of the week. Afterward Daddy read a book to her class and Mommy and Daddy watched as she got to share some of her mementos with the class.
Toward the end of the Month there was another Daisy meeting, and a Brownie meeting that Mommy got to help be the leader. We enjoyed one evening at the Carver Straw Hat fundraiser for dinner before our final weekend celebrating Mac's 40th Birthday bash. The girls enjoyed spending time with Sierra so Mommy and Daddy could enjoy the fiesta together.
Throughout the month we also had fun reading books, playing on the trampoline, having play dates, and even a couple of trips to the park.
Cienna's looking forward to her Wizard of Oz performance coming this next month which she has been practicing. She had gym pictures done for the Nationals brochure. She completed her round-off back handspring by herself but still needs to practice for confidence. She finished a hat that she has been knitting, and enjoyed her scholar of the week.
Kaylee really enjoyed learning how to skate, and loves to dress up and play act. Her creativeness continues to shine through in her actions. Just as always, she still tries to eat anything that is in front of her. She was also very proud, as were we, scoring a 100% on her curriculum math test.
Things are only getting more busy and this school year is coming to an end...... We can't believe this school year is coming to an end : (
Tuesday, April 19, 2016
Cienna - 8 Years, 3 Months!... Kaylee - 5 Years, 10 Months!
The Carver Annual Magic Show kicked of this last month. Followed by many Birthday parties. Kamryn had a 50's theme that the girls got to attend, while Eric had a pub crawl theme that Daddy went to represent. The next day we got to enjoy Sadie's surprise Birthday at Get Air Trampoline place followed by Mandy and Chase's Bounce U party.
During the following week, the 2nd and 3rd graders had tryouts for the Wizard of Oz play that they are putting on in the beginning of June. Daddy had a fun game night with some of his co-workers, and Mommy also turned 39 that week just before the beginning of Spring Break.
We made sure to fit in time to dye eggs for the Easter Bunny to hide for the girls. They had a great time searching around the house. There were a couple missing but after investigation we found some shells in the grass outside... Porter. We then headed over to a fabulous brunch at the Snow's with more goodies and egg hunting.
The girls spent some great days for Spring Break at Campfire camp while Mommy and Daddy were working. The days Mommy stayed home we went to the Columbia Memorial Space Center followed by lunch at the Souplantation, girls enjoyed fixing their own ice cream for lunch! Luckily it was after they had plenty of salad : ) We also enjoyed a hike at the Nature Center and a visit to some adorable animals at the Animal Shelter. Of course there were also dance shows made up by the girls and some dress up including the use of Mommy and Daddy's attire.
The next week, back at school, the girls got free dress for Spring Pictures. Also Kaylee had her x-ray appointment to luckily get the good news that she can stop wearing the sling! Toward the end of the week the Brownie's had a quick get together to make a sign for Tony, the school janitor to thank him as a random act of kindness. During their meeting, Mommy and Kaylee took Addy to the park for a quick energy release. That evening was the dress rehearsal for the big Carver Talent Show that the girls have been preparing for! Mommy organized Cienna's Brownie Footloose Show, Kaylee also had a Daisy act, On The Good ship Lollipop, and joined the Kindergarteners as well as the Genie's from Aladdin. It was amazing to watch all of the kids have such a great time!
Kaylee had her monthly Daisy meeting and the Brownie's took a fun hike at the Nature Center. Cienna also had her first Wizard of Oz practice after landing a main character role and is really enjoying it!
The last weekend was another big one while the girls were at their all day (2 sessions) home practice gymnastics meet, Daddy was helping Roman celebrate on a self guided brewery tour in a 15 passenger van. The next day we made some cupcakes, got invited to join the Marshall's for swimming at the JCC, and put together our trampoline that was donated to us by the Bakx family who needed the space to make room for their new pool. Although we have many rules, some of which we haven't figured out yet, the girls without a doubt have been enjoying it!
Then the last night Cienna got awarded during a nice ceremony, and display of all participants art work, for her book that she entered in the PTA Reflections competition early in the year earning 3rd place in the district.
She was so proud to be awarded for her work and wants to start on something that she can turn in for next year! After the first Wizard of Oz tryouts, she got a call back that night along with 2 other girls to determine who would be the Wicked Witch in the play. After a little consideration she decided she would do her best and was thrilled to end up with the part! Her first gymnastics meet was surely a success because she was all smiles and had a great time!
Kaylee was such an amazing trooper during her almost 5 weeks wearing a sling for her broken collar bone. Even during plenty of jumping crazy birthday parties, she just made due with the fun she could have. Then the doctor gave her the free to go statement and it was on. Although she did take it easy when starting back at gymnastics, it was only one week later that she did all of her routines during the practice competition. However, I think she just had the most fun hanging with her friends at the gym and then had to do a couple of routines in the meantime! I also call that successful.
The girls just keep growing, along with there beautiful personalities and style. They are supportive of each other and are best friends most of the time : )
Check out the Pictures!
During the following week, the 2nd and 3rd graders had tryouts for the Wizard of Oz play that they are putting on in the beginning of June. Daddy had a fun game night with some of his co-workers, and Mommy also turned 39 that week just before the beginning of Spring Break.
We made sure to fit in time to dye eggs for the Easter Bunny to hide for the girls. They had a great time searching around the house. There were a couple missing but after investigation we found some shells in the grass outside... Porter. We then headed over to a fabulous brunch at the Snow's with more goodies and egg hunting.
The girls spent some great days for Spring Break at Campfire camp while Mommy and Daddy were working. The days Mommy stayed home we went to the Columbia Memorial Space Center followed by lunch at the Souplantation, girls enjoyed fixing their own ice cream for lunch! Luckily it was after they had plenty of salad : ) We also enjoyed a hike at the Nature Center and a visit to some adorable animals at the Animal Shelter. Of course there were also dance shows made up by the girls and some dress up including the use of Mommy and Daddy's attire.
The next week, back at school, the girls got free dress for Spring Pictures. Also Kaylee had her x-ray appointment to luckily get the good news that she can stop wearing the sling! Toward the end of the week the Brownie's had a quick get together to make a sign for Tony, the school janitor to thank him as a random act of kindness. During their meeting, Mommy and Kaylee took Addy to the park for a quick energy release. That evening was the dress rehearsal for the big Carver Talent Show that the girls have been preparing for! Mommy organized Cienna's Brownie Footloose Show, Kaylee also had a Daisy act, On The Good ship Lollipop, and joined the Kindergarteners as well as the Genie's from Aladdin. It was amazing to watch all of the kids have such a great time!
Kaylee had her monthly Daisy meeting and the Brownie's took a fun hike at the Nature Center. Cienna also had her first Wizard of Oz practice after landing a main character role and is really enjoying it!
The last weekend was another big one while the girls were at their all day (2 sessions) home practice gymnastics meet, Daddy was helping Roman celebrate on a self guided brewery tour in a 15 passenger van. The next day we made some cupcakes, got invited to join the Marshall's for swimming at the JCC, and put together our trampoline that was donated to us by the Bakx family who needed the space to make room for their new pool. Although we have many rules, some of which we haven't figured out yet, the girls without a doubt have been enjoying it!
Then the last night Cienna got awarded during a nice ceremony, and display of all participants art work, for her book that she entered in the PTA Reflections competition early in the year earning 3rd place in the district.
She was so proud to be awarded for her work and wants to start on something that she can turn in for next year! After the first Wizard of Oz tryouts, she got a call back that night along with 2 other girls to determine who would be the Wicked Witch in the play. After a little consideration she decided she would do her best and was thrilled to end up with the part! Her first gymnastics meet was surely a success because she was all smiles and had a great time!
Kaylee was such an amazing trooper during her almost 5 weeks wearing a sling for her broken collar bone. Even during plenty of jumping crazy birthday parties, she just made due with the fun she could have. Then the doctor gave her the free to go statement and it was on. Although she did take it easy when starting back at gymnastics, it was only one week later that she did all of her routines during the practice competition. However, I think she just had the most fun hanging with her friends at the gym and then had to do a couple of routines in the meantime! I also call that successful.
The girls just keep growing, along with there beautiful personalities and style. They are supportive of each other and are best friends most of the time : )
Check out the Pictures!
Friday, March 18, 2016
Cienna - 8 Years, 2 Months!... Kaylee - 5 Years, 9 Months!
Daddy and Uncle RJ enjoyed a magnificent deep sea fishing trip together with friends while Mommy took the girls to an unbelievable twins 6th birthday party held at the Long Beach Convention Center complete with 8 humongous jump houses, human hamster balls, face painting, etc...., and most of all many great friends!
Kaylee practiced many times and was the star of the entire Kinder/TK sing along Love Show! She nailed it. Daddy got to watch in person and took a video for the rest of us to see. We had a great pizza making weekend and worked around the house.
The next week we welcomed Lula as a much wanted guest who joined us in the excitement of Kaylee loosing her first tooth! Not the chipped one that she has had since she was 18 months old for those of you who have read our blog for that long : ) Also during that week we had fun with Read Across America Week in honor of Dr. Seuss. Sports jersey, then twin day (Cienna and Elliot, Kaylee and Kamryn), green eggs and ham breakfast, wild about reading, and pajama day which co-insides with one of many talent show practices this past month.
A fun daisy Easter Egg hunt was a success for a Daisy Troop meeting and a badge ceremony was held for the Brownies.
We got our finances explained after a not such a great year for money. Good thing we are not retiring anytime soon.... that's a strange thing to say : ) On a better note, both girls advanced in gymnastics, which gave more times together for dinner as they both are now on the same Tuesday and Thursday schedule. They had good dental check-ups with x-rays. Cienna needs to remember that it is harder to brush with braces. The dentist appointment was not Kaylee's first x-ray this month. Turns out that she has a broken collar bone. We aren't sure exactly how it happened, but think it came down to speeding around in the backyard with her sister, or jumping off the roof... who knows.
We all enjoyed learning about Norway this month for Cienna's culture project. She has been enjoying Mommy teaching her girl scout troop for the talent show coming up. She would hands down tell you that her favorite thing about this month is moving up to Pre-3 in gymnastics! She enjoyed her badge earning ceremony, remembering all that her troop has done since the fall. Mommy enjoyed sewing them all on at the same time. She looks forward to earning a part in the Wizard of Oz for her upcoming drama club for the 2nd and 3rd graders at school!
So some memorable occasions happened for Kaylee this month. We thought the biggest one would be loosing her very first tooth.... not so much. She had to one up that and go and break her collar bone. It is fully broken, check out the picture! We can't remind her enough how broken it is. She had a fun Easter egg hunt with her Daisy troop the day after Urgent Care. Somehow we'll get her through the next few weeks without damage right? She also was super proud to move up as the youngest to be in Pre-Team and has her round-off backhand spring easily by herself (doesn't help with the broken bone). She has continued to advance in reading and has amazing handwriting.
Porter's highlight this month was definitely having Lula here for a week to share in his non-stop shenanigans and fun!
Thanks for reading or at least enjoy the pictures!
Kaylee practiced many times and was the star of the entire Kinder/TK sing along Love Show! She nailed it. Daddy got to watch in person and took a video for the rest of us to see. We had a great pizza making weekend and worked around the house.
The next week we welcomed Lula as a much wanted guest who joined us in the excitement of Kaylee loosing her first tooth! Not the chipped one that she has had since she was 18 months old for those of you who have read our blog for that long : ) Also during that week we had fun with Read Across America Week in honor of Dr. Seuss. Sports jersey, then twin day (Cienna and Elliot, Kaylee and Kamryn), green eggs and ham breakfast, wild about reading, and pajama day which co-insides with one of many talent show practices this past month.
A fun daisy Easter Egg hunt was a success for a Daisy Troop meeting and a badge ceremony was held for the Brownies.
We got our finances explained after a not such a great year for money. Good thing we are not retiring anytime soon.... that's a strange thing to say : ) On a better note, both girls advanced in gymnastics, which gave more times together for dinner as they both are now on the same Tuesday and Thursday schedule. They had good dental check-ups with x-rays. Cienna needs to remember that it is harder to brush with braces. The dentist appointment was not Kaylee's first x-ray this month. Turns out that she has a broken collar bone. We aren't sure exactly how it happened, but think it came down to speeding around in the backyard with her sister, or jumping off the roof... who knows.
We all enjoyed learning about Norway this month for Cienna's culture project. She has been enjoying Mommy teaching her girl scout troop for the talent show coming up. She would hands down tell you that her favorite thing about this month is moving up to Pre-3 in gymnastics! She enjoyed her badge earning ceremony, remembering all that her troop has done since the fall. Mommy enjoyed sewing them all on at the same time. She looks forward to earning a part in the Wizard of Oz for her upcoming drama club for the 2nd and 3rd graders at school!
So some memorable occasions happened for Kaylee this month. We thought the biggest one would be loosing her very first tooth.... not so much. She had to one up that and go and break her collar bone. It is fully broken, check out the picture! We can't remind her enough how broken it is. She had a fun Easter egg hunt with her Daisy troop the day after Urgent Care. Somehow we'll get her through the next few weeks without damage right? She also was super proud to move up as the youngest to be in Pre-Team and has her round-off backhand spring easily by herself (doesn't help with the broken bone). She has continued to advance in reading and has amazing handwriting.
Porter's highlight this month was definitely having Lula here for a week to share in his non-stop shenanigans and fun!
Thanks for reading or at least enjoy the pictures!
Friday, February 19, 2016
Cienna - 8 Years, 1 Month!... Kaylee - 5 Years, 8 Months!
Just as busy, just not as many photos : ). Even though the Carver Talent Show isn't until April, practices have begun. Mommy is once again in charge of Cienna's troop show, but Kaylee also has a troop grandma taking on an act for the Daisies as well.
On their way home from a fun filled trip in Disney the Natal's truly made Cienna's Birthday memorable by stopping by her classroom to play some math games with her classmates and then headed to Kaylee's class to create a wonderful story time for all of her friends too!
Cienna's troop had a CPR meeting which allowed Mommy and Kaylee to have a play date with Anabelle who is taking a leap with her family and moving to Oregon. Then we had the Geithman's over for a long awaited get together which went just as if we'd seen each other the previous day! That weekend we then got to pick up our first of many loads of girl scout cookies. Nobody will tell you other than Kaylee led the cookie sales... and Cienna made sure the money was accounted for.
We had another fun play date with Kamryn and Shawna full of imagination and Daddy getting a make-over.
The next day Cienna's troop had a "lemonade stand" for troop cookie sales which was more of a party with cookie sales on the side, as it should be! After that, Kaylee was ready to go back on her own for more cookie sales with her sister side kick. That night we had a delicious rib dinner with the Betrauns. It was great to re-unite and make sure to keep great friends even after he was lucky enough to retire last month.
Talent show practices continued and a bigger adventure was in our sights! We were ready for Poppa to come and have a family adventure to the snow at Big Bear Mountain... thanks to the Betraun's amazing cabin! We picked up Poppa on Wednesday and left right after school on Friday. The road trip each way had a little traffic, but that was the least on our minds for such a memorable trip. It previously snowed and stayed cold until we showed up to get lift tickets for the first time for the girls on Poppa's birthday. The day was amazing. The girls got a private lesson for the two of them and Poppa got to watch as they enjoyed every minute. Mommy and Daddy got a couple of runs in together and had just as much fun on the carpet ride watching the girls have fun the rest of the day. On the side, they also went on their first ski lift and truly enjoyed it, but the lines were much longer for the same run as the carpet ride.
We got to have French Silk pie to celebrate Poppa, then relax at the cabin. The next day we did some walking distance sledding, and the girls preferred snowboarding down the hill. We also made a pretty cool snow man together named Freezy. Poppa treated us to lunch at a great brewery before heading back to the cabin for a few cookie sales to cabins that aren't so close together and plenty of super bowl snacks for all of us. It was pretty relaxing to "watch" the super bowl with such an amazing background and company! Mommy and Daddy even took an extra day off of work since the girls were off on Monday to extend the great weekend.
Unfortunately the next Wednesday Poppa went back to Kenwood, we still miss him. Kaylee had a daisy meeting and Cienna had a minor fall on the beam at gymnastics that happen to knock of a brace from her tooth. We went through valentines at school and a the first talent show practice for the kindergartners as well.
We finally got a little time at home. Unfortunately we couldn't hit up the library like the girls were hoping due another holiday weekend, but we made up for it with a bike ride down the long beach bike path, home improvement (girls making their own creations as we painted patio furniture), more family run/biking on Sunday and time together preparing for the next week.
Mommy had the aside of dealing with the chance of jury duty which is fine so far, and we are lucky to have such great friends, as the Marshalls, to have had taken the girls for a magnificent 90 degree Monday off of school to a local pool while Mommy and Daddy had to work.
More excitement that week had to do with the Kindergarten 100th day of school and Cienna's re-scheduled Ortho appt. to fix her broken bracket and install new spring wires and upgraded head gear. The month ended with the excitement of gathering the two large girl scout troops for costume ready talent show pictures. It made them all more excited to preform.
Cienna turned Mommy's favorite number. The reason it is Mommy's favorite number is because she decided what her favorite number would be when she was 8. We are still in denial. She was a trooper when her brace fell off, although after getting it fixed it was evident that the tooth had moved before we could get an appointment, so it wasn't easy to ease it back into place. Pretty sure Cienna's biggest accomplishment according to her was being asked to advance to the next level of gymnastics team. She now picks snowboarding as one of her favorite things to do. This month has been great with learning new subjects and she is also learning about unit of measure which she is used growing up around this house. Lastly she got to see the first final product of her rock tumbler experience.
Kaylee also went to the next level of gymnastics... the youngest one at her level again. Her favorite thing this month has been selling cookies. She is for sure the salesman of the two. Even asking people in random situations if they want cookies! She has come to life every moment practicing musical shows all day long. She has a "love show" for kindergarten, along with the kinder and Daisy talent show on the way. She has stated how much she wants to be on stage. She was the only one to finish her 100 word page in class during the initial time for the 100'th day of school. She's still reading like a champ which only gets her more interested in reading... it's a snow ball effect : )
Both girls agree with Mommy and Daddy that we miss Poppa and were so glad to get to celebrate his birthday in the snow.. especially since their favorite activity when we were there beside hanging out with Poppa was eating snow!
Click on image to see.. not as many pictures this month.
On their way home from a fun filled trip in Disney the Natal's truly made Cienna's Birthday memorable by stopping by her classroom to play some math games with her classmates and then headed to Kaylee's class to create a wonderful story time for all of her friends too!
Cienna's troop had a CPR meeting which allowed Mommy and Kaylee to have a play date with Anabelle who is taking a leap with her family and moving to Oregon. Then we had the Geithman's over for a long awaited get together which went just as if we'd seen each other the previous day! That weekend we then got to pick up our first of many loads of girl scout cookies. Nobody will tell you other than Kaylee led the cookie sales... and Cienna made sure the money was accounted for.
We had another fun play date with Kamryn and Shawna full of imagination and Daddy getting a make-over.
The next day Cienna's troop had a "lemonade stand" for troop cookie sales which was more of a party with cookie sales on the side, as it should be! After that, Kaylee was ready to go back on her own for more cookie sales with her sister side kick. That night we had a delicious rib dinner with the Betrauns. It was great to re-unite and make sure to keep great friends even after he was lucky enough to retire last month.
Talent show practices continued and a bigger adventure was in our sights! We were ready for Poppa to come and have a family adventure to the snow at Big Bear Mountain... thanks to the Betraun's amazing cabin! We picked up Poppa on Wednesday and left right after school on Friday. The road trip each way had a little traffic, but that was the least on our minds for such a memorable trip. It previously snowed and stayed cold until we showed up to get lift tickets for the first time for the girls on Poppa's birthday. The day was amazing. The girls got a private lesson for the two of them and Poppa got to watch as they enjoyed every minute. Mommy and Daddy got a couple of runs in together and had just as much fun on the carpet ride watching the girls have fun the rest of the day. On the side, they also went on their first ski lift and truly enjoyed it, but the lines were much longer for the same run as the carpet ride.
We got to have French Silk pie to celebrate Poppa, then relax at the cabin. The next day we did some walking distance sledding, and the girls preferred snowboarding down the hill. We also made a pretty cool snow man together named Freezy. Poppa treated us to lunch at a great brewery before heading back to the cabin for a few cookie sales to cabins that aren't so close together and plenty of super bowl snacks for all of us. It was pretty relaxing to "watch" the super bowl with such an amazing background and company! Mommy and Daddy even took an extra day off of work since the girls were off on Monday to extend the great weekend.
Unfortunately the next Wednesday Poppa went back to Kenwood, we still miss him. Kaylee had a daisy meeting and Cienna had a minor fall on the beam at gymnastics that happen to knock of a brace from her tooth. We went through valentines at school and a the first talent show practice for the kindergartners as well.
We finally got a little time at home. Unfortunately we couldn't hit up the library like the girls were hoping due another holiday weekend, but we made up for it with a bike ride down the long beach bike path, home improvement (girls making their own creations as we painted patio furniture), more family run/biking on Sunday and time together preparing for the next week.
Mommy had the aside of dealing with the chance of jury duty which is fine so far, and we are lucky to have such great friends, as the Marshalls, to have had taken the girls for a magnificent 90 degree Monday off of school to a local pool while Mommy and Daddy had to work.
More excitement that week had to do with the Kindergarten 100th day of school and Cienna's re-scheduled Ortho appt. to fix her broken bracket and install new spring wires and upgraded head gear. The month ended with the excitement of gathering the two large girl scout troops for costume ready talent show pictures. It made them all more excited to preform.
Cienna turned Mommy's favorite number. The reason it is Mommy's favorite number is because she decided what her favorite number would be when she was 8. We are still in denial. She was a trooper when her brace fell off, although after getting it fixed it was evident that the tooth had moved before we could get an appointment, so it wasn't easy to ease it back into place. Pretty sure Cienna's biggest accomplishment according to her was being asked to advance to the next level of gymnastics team. She now picks snowboarding as one of her favorite things to do. This month has been great with learning new subjects and she is also learning about unit of measure which she is used growing up around this house. Lastly she got to see the first final product of her rock tumbler experience.
Kaylee also went to the next level of gymnastics... the youngest one at her level again. Her favorite thing this month has been selling cookies. She is for sure the salesman of the two. Even asking people in random situations if they want cookies! She has come to life every moment practicing musical shows all day long. She has a "love show" for kindergarten, along with the kinder and Daisy talent show on the way. She has stated how much she wants to be on stage. She was the only one to finish her 100 word page in class during the initial time for the 100'th day of school. She's still reading like a champ which only gets her more interested in reading... it's a snow ball effect : )
Both girls agree with Mommy and Daddy that we miss Poppa and were so glad to get to celebrate his birthday in the snow.. especially since their favorite activity when we were there beside hanging out with Poppa was eating snow!
Click on image to see.. not as many pictures this month.
Tuesday, January 26, 2016
Cienna - 8 Years Old!... Kaylee - 5 Years, 7 Months!
What a holiday season! A pot luck at the gymnastics center started the fun. We actually got a little rain enjoyed getting wet on walks and bike rides. We loved getting some time with Uncle B who brought on the magic and fun. An easy fix turned into a brand new kitchen faucet before our big Holiday trip back to northern California.
The Natal's was the first stop. The girls enjoyed a sleep over and Daddy was exposed to Dub Smash. The following morning was Christmas Eve. We took the three dogs for a muddy hike while we waited for the McFarlands to arrive. We enjoyed good food and time with family, playing games, music, and sharing gifts before we headed to Kenwood.
After hanging with Poppa for a bit, the girls set out milk and cookies and organized stockings by the fireplace. They were patient on Christmas morning waiting for Mommy, Daddy, and Poppa to roll out of bed. We all got to open our stockings together. Soon after the Marty's arrived and the party started. We slowly prepared food throughout the day and we enjoyed each others company as we exchanged presents and stories. We stayed and hung out on Saturday, then the girls went to an alumni SR gymnastics party. Mommy's pictures were in the really old photo albums : ). We headed back home on Sunday morning. The girls were great as usual on the car trips.
There were still gifts under our tree when we got home, so we proceeded to open those surprises. We got to spend time at the Bakx home being spoiled even more. There was some creative ice cream snow men making in anticipation for our 5th annual New Years trip up to Big Bear with the Sklenicka's.
It was a fun filled couple of days as always even though the lack of snow and water in the lake was a little depressing. We had park play, sledding, girls got to snow board down a small hill, plenty of snow balls, lots of good meals and snacks, parade watching, karaoke for the girls and dub smash for Daddy, and even glow in the dark bocce ball.
We finally found time to get together with the snow's to talk about our holidays. Cienna got a fantastic series chapter books, and Kaylee got a globe that she has been talking about wanting along with Lego friends. Daddy got plenty of BBQ fixings and Mommy got a brand new sewing machine that sewed on girl scout patches with ease!
A couple of Birthday parties for Jayden and Alexis were enjoyed before heading back to school/work. Mommy got her 15yr. pin from work. There was a fun family art night where Cienna got awarded first place in the Reflections contest in which she entered her book. That weekend our first visitor was Lula. There was a cookie rally in preparation for Girl Scout Cookie sales, followed by the arrival of the Natals! We had fun walking all four dogs and 4 children that evening before making cupcake cones for Cienna's birthday the next morning.
For her 8th birthday she couldn't decide between cooking, gymnastics, or science. So we had it at home and did all three. I think she and all her friends had a great time. We kept it early so all girls had some down time and a mellow evening in preparation for an early start at California Adventure the entire next day!
The crowds were small in the morning, so all eight of us made our way through over half the park within a handful of hours and even got in extra rides : ) We completed pretty much the whole park by the end of the day including a good spot to see the parade. The girls were exhausted, but did pretty amazing the entire day! Great end to the month. We are always so proud of them!
Kaylee has been acknowledging when others could use some help and doing her best to help out! She is currently our top comedian. Her concentration continues to expand, especially when she is building something. Her coordination is very apparent, even picking up on musical instruments although she hasn't done any formal classes. She still loves school and gymnastics and is looking forward to selling girl scout cookies with her sister.
Cienna's book that she created on her own and entered in the Reflections contest got third in her category in all of the Long Beach School district. It's great to see her so proud of her achievements. She is quite creative in everything she does, but also needs to be structured and organized. She's enjoying learning new subjects such as social studies and science. She's enjoyed her rock tumbling experiment and was very brave, after a little convincing, to go on the California Screaming roller coaster. She'll be talking about how much she loved it for a while!
The girls are expanding their play together with more strategic games, but also, still just like to put together their imaginations and see what happens! It's always amazing.
Click the link to see the accompanying photos : )
The Natal's was the first stop. The girls enjoyed a sleep over and Daddy was exposed to Dub Smash. The following morning was Christmas Eve. We took the three dogs for a muddy hike while we waited for the McFarlands to arrive. We enjoyed good food and time with family, playing games, music, and sharing gifts before we headed to Kenwood.
After hanging with Poppa for a bit, the girls set out milk and cookies and organized stockings by the fireplace. They were patient on Christmas morning waiting for Mommy, Daddy, and Poppa to roll out of bed. We all got to open our stockings together. Soon after the Marty's arrived and the party started. We slowly prepared food throughout the day and we enjoyed each others company as we exchanged presents and stories. We stayed and hung out on Saturday, then the girls went to an alumni SR gymnastics party. Mommy's pictures were in the really old photo albums : ). We headed back home on Sunday morning. The girls were great as usual on the car trips.
There were still gifts under our tree when we got home, so we proceeded to open those surprises. We got to spend time at the Bakx home being spoiled even more. There was some creative ice cream snow men making in anticipation for our 5th annual New Years trip up to Big Bear with the Sklenicka's.
It was a fun filled couple of days as always even though the lack of snow and water in the lake was a little depressing. We had park play, sledding, girls got to snow board down a small hill, plenty of snow balls, lots of good meals and snacks, parade watching, karaoke for the girls and dub smash for Daddy, and even glow in the dark bocce ball.
We finally found time to get together with the snow's to talk about our holidays. Cienna got a fantastic series chapter books, and Kaylee got a globe that she has been talking about wanting along with Lego friends. Daddy got plenty of BBQ fixings and Mommy got a brand new sewing machine that sewed on girl scout patches with ease!
A couple of Birthday parties for Jayden and Alexis were enjoyed before heading back to school/work. Mommy got her 15yr. pin from work. There was a fun family art night where Cienna got awarded first place in the Reflections contest in which she entered her book. That weekend our first visitor was Lula. There was a cookie rally in preparation for Girl Scout Cookie sales, followed by the arrival of the Natals! We had fun walking all four dogs and 4 children that evening before making cupcake cones for Cienna's birthday the next morning.
For her 8th birthday she couldn't decide between cooking, gymnastics, or science. So we had it at home and did all three. I think she and all her friends had a great time. We kept it early so all girls had some down time and a mellow evening in preparation for an early start at California Adventure the entire next day!
The crowds were small in the morning, so all eight of us made our way through over half the park within a handful of hours and even got in extra rides : ) We completed pretty much the whole park by the end of the day including a good spot to see the parade. The girls were exhausted, but did pretty amazing the entire day! Great end to the month. We are always so proud of them!
Kaylee has been acknowledging when others could use some help and doing her best to help out! She is currently our top comedian. Her concentration continues to expand, especially when she is building something. Her coordination is very apparent, even picking up on musical instruments although she hasn't done any formal classes. She still loves school and gymnastics and is looking forward to selling girl scout cookies with her sister.
Cienna's book that she created on her own and entered in the Reflections contest got third in her category in all of the Long Beach School district. It's great to see her so proud of her achievements. She is quite creative in everything she does, but also needs to be structured and organized. She's enjoying learning new subjects such as social studies and science. She's enjoyed her rock tumbling experiment and was very brave, after a little convincing, to go on the California Screaming roller coaster. She'll be talking about how much she loved it for a while!
The girls are expanding their play together with more strategic games, but also, still just like to put together their imaginations and see what happens! It's always amazing.
Click the link to see the accompanying photos : )
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