It might seem like this wasn't a busy month but you have not seen how marked up our calendar is. Sure it started with a simple get together at a friends to talk about her growing business followed by Ava and Ricky's Super Birthday Party at Glow Zone with hundreds of people. Then a nice date night out for a Carver fundraiser at CPK. But the real business were the weeks filled with after school and weekend practices for the Robotics Club, Talent Show Practices... 4 acts between the 2 girls, one of which Mommy is the lead. Different days of practice for each girl for the school play of Snow White to come in June. There were a couple Girl Scout meetings, one of which we were in charge of St. Patty's themed snacks consisting of Green rice crispy treats and grapes. All that along with working hard to sell all the cookies that they had recommended to be able to sell of course. This is again on top of all the regular gymnastics, etc. that occurs every week. And breathe...
Then along the way we had some cookie booths and a planned power outage. Then on a Friday after going to school in pajamas for Read Across America Day, the girls missed the second half of school to compete in the Long Beach Open at the Convention Center. They did fantastic and Daddy took a LONG lunch break to come watch them. That Sunday Daddy left to go to New Jersey for a meeting at the Subaru headquarters. Him and his co-workers had a little extra time after the meeting on Monday to visit some cool sites in Philadelphia. Daddy even pretended to be Rocky Balboa! The girls missed him but had a good time, mostly trying to sell cookies.
We had our yearly meeting with our financial advisory who has become a good friend to all of us. This year he gave each girl a $2 bill. Mommy also took a little time on a Friday night to celebrate Minda's 40th Birthday. The following day we had Sadie's 10th Birthday along with Larry's 75th Birthday. The girls were able to start at Larrry's, head over to Sadie's, and then back for more cake at Larry's. Then Sunday, with more practices included in all of these days, Daddy got to spend time with Roman "preparing" for the Home Brew Festival (Brewing Beer).
Then there were no more cookies to sell, good thing it was the very last day to sell Girl Scout cookies! The Carver 2nd through 5th graders all got to walk to Marshall (neighborhood Middle School) to watch a really good production put on by the middle schoolers of Princess and The Pea. Mommy volunteered to work at the Y for a Kinder Open Gym, but then headed over right after to watch as well. We knew some previous Carver students and also some close gymnastics teammates that were in the play so it was a blast to see them on stage.
The last weekend we celebrated the wee bit of Irish in us with a delicious corned beef and a visit from Poppa and the Marty's. They came that evening in the new motor home and we all had a great dinner for the holiday. The next day we got to spend even more enjoying each others company. The girls also got to join in on Auntie Kimmie's birthday brunch celebration at Corey and Autumn's home!
The girls really loved their first season of gymnastics competition! It is now over with the exception of YMCA State and National Competitions coming in June. Cienna has really enjoyed robotics taught by her teacher and they are both excited about the school play and enjoy the practices leading up to it. The Talent Show will be a great time. Kaylee is really shining in her dances and has even had to step in for one of Cienna's girl scouts that won't be able to make the show.
Click the link to see some pictures....
https://photos.app.goo.gl/aHV5htLpAwsUOYG23
Wednesday, March 21, 2018
Wednesday, February 21, 2018
Cienna - 10 Years 1 Month... Kaylee - 7 Years, 8 Months!
Before the big Birthday, Cienna's Junior Girl Scout troop, joined with many other volunteers, planted trees in the parkways around the neighborhood for a city improvement organization. We can't wait to see them continue to grow.
Then it happened, our little baby turned double digits. She is such an amazing person and we couldn't be more proud of her and everything that she is. She had chosen over half a year ago to do a "color run" for her birthday party. They of course didn't have a local run planned in January, so we had to make our own. It was such a great time. We set up an 8 course obstacle at a nearby park and had so many parents volunteer to spray color all over the kiddos. The parents and kids were all fantastic guests and really got into it. Cienna was very happy to be around so many of her friends!
Then again the teeth began falling out. One for each of the girls this month. They also had auditions for the school play, Snow White. They both got the part they asked for. Cienna is the Evil Queen, and Kaylee is the Snow Fairy.. and an extra part as a Royal Subject. It is Kaylee's first chance to be in the school play and is quite excited, and it is still one of Cienna's favorite parts of the school year.
Mommy got to join Cienna on her class field trip to the local Community College, she even got put to work as one of the nursing students didn't make it. That weekend we were joined by Porter's best buddy Lula, and Girl Scout cookie sales were under way. The first pick-up and distribution of the troops cookies is always crazy. But no selling till the next day : ) The girls were on it first thing, going around the neighborhood on a beautiful day.
The following week Kaylee got to go to the Science Center for a field trip and then learn to crochet with the rest of her Brownie Troop. They also had their first Talent Show practice which is a dance to "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun". Mommy is again in charge of Cienna's Junior Girl Scout Troop's talent show routine. We also had our first practice which was a brain storming session to advance Daddy's amazing idea of an Internet of Things (IoT) skit. So far both acts are turning out to be great. Both girls are also practicing a second act. Kaylee's is with some friends for one of the local high school girls senior project, and Cienna's is with her 4th grade class.
That weekend Mommy and Daddy went to help celebrate Kristen's 40th birthday. We had a great high school neighbor come by to stay with the kids as they slept. She came early with her brother and we all played a game together before bedtime. It was fun hanging out with some great friends. The next day the girls had a gymnastics meet in Pasadena which happens to be where one of Mommy's ex-coworkers, Brian, lives. We decided to go early for lunch, since their meet didn't start till around 2, and met up with Brian and his kids. It was nice to fit in some time with them. The girls did so wonderful and had a great time at their meet. Kaylee even got the Heart of the Champions award which only 3 of the MANY level 3's earned for encouragement, leadership, and determination which is recognized by the judges.
We had many successful cookie booths throughout the rest of the month and more trips around the neighborhood. Valentines Day was full of sugar. First from school, then a pretty awesome gymnastics Valentines Day party. Lots of work making treats for so many wonderful friends, but good times were had by all. The last Girl Scout event of the month was for Cienna who watched the movie "Wonder" with her troop, who had each been given the book to read prior. She had a "wonderful" time, but did say she cried a little when the .... won't spoil it part happened. Meanwhile, Mommy, Daddy, and Kaylee spent some quality time building things and hanging out!
Until next month, when they are even older then they are now, enjoy the pictures.
https://photos.app.goo.gl/hBdnjmeb4Aj1A9PT2
Then it happened, our little baby turned double digits. She is such an amazing person and we couldn't be more proud of her and everything that she is. She had chosen over half a year ago to do a "color run" for her birthday party. They of course didn't have a local run planned in January, so we had to make our own. It was such a great time. We set up an 8 course obstacle at a nearby park and had so many parents volunteer to spray color all over the kiddos. The parents and kids were all fantastic guests and really got into it. Cienna was very happy to be around so many of her friends!
Then again the teeth began falling out. One for each of the girls this month. They also had auditions for the school play, Snow White. They both got the part they asked for. Cienna is the Evil Queen, and Kaylee is the Snow Fairy.. and an extra part as a Royal Subject. It is Kaylee's first chance to be in the school play and is quite excited, and it is still one of Cienna's favorite parts of the school year.
Mommy got to join Cienna on her class field trip to the local Community College, she even got put to work as one of the nursing students didn't make it. That weekend we were joined by Porter's best buddy Lula, and Girl Scout cookie sales were under way. The first pick-up and distribution of the troops cookies is always crazy. But no selling till the next day : ) The girls were on it first thing, going around the neighborhood on a beautiful day.
The following week Kaylee got to go to the Science Center for a field trip and then learn to crochet with the rest of her Brownie Troop. They also had their first Talent Show practice which is a dance to "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun". Mommy is again in charge of Cienna's Junior Girl Scout Troop's talent show routine. We also had our first practice which was a brain storming session to advance Daddy's amazing idea of an Internet of Things (IoT) skit. So far both acts are turning out to be great. Both girls are also practicing a second act. Kaylee's is with some friends for one of the local high school girls senior project, and Cienna's is with her 4th grade class.
That weekend Mommy and Daddy went to help celebrate Kristen's 40th birthday. We had a great high school neighbor come by to stay with the kids as they slept. She came early with her brother and we all played a game together before bedtime. It was fun hanging out with some great friends. The next day the girls had a gymnastics meet in Pasadena which happens to be where one of Mommy's ex-coworkers, Brian, lives. We decided to go early for lunch, since their meet didn't start till around 2, and met up with Brian and his kids. It was nice to fit in some time with them. The girls did so wonderful and had a great time at their meet. Kaylee even got the Heart of the Champions award which only 3 of the MANY level 3's earned for encouragement, leadership, and determination which is recognized by the judges.
We had many successful cookie booths throughout the rest of the month and more trips around the neighborhood. Valentines Day was full of sugar. First from school, then a pretty awesome gymnastics Valentines Day party. Lots of work making treats for so many wonderful friends, but good times were had by all. The last Girl Scout event of the month was for Cienna who watched the movie "Wonder" with her troop, who had each been given the book to read prior. She had a "wonderful" time, but did say she cried a little when the .... won't spoil it part happened. Meanwhile, Mommy, Daddy, and Kaylee spent some quality time building things and hanging out!
Until next month, when they are even older then they are now, enjoy the pictures.
https://photos.app.goo.gl/hBdnjmeb4Aj1A9PT2
Friday, January 19, 2018
Cienna - 10 Years Old... Kaylee - 7 Years, 7 Months!
The jungle tree down the street was chopped down to a stump. A little sad but sure did change our view in that direction. Then it came. The last day of school before winter break Cienna got to wear Pajamas and both girls pretty much partied the day away toward vacation. The weekend before Christmas was filled with making final gifts, dance parties, Go Noodle, making cookies, bike rides, and Mommy got to go to a Y Christmas staff party.
Christmas morning was incredible as the girls came down stairs to cuddle in our bed and watch a show before slowly making our way to the living room and making a big breakfast to enjoy as we exchanged gifts with one another and were just thankful to be together. We then spent the afternoon spending time with and getting spoiled as always by Auntie Kimmie and Uncle Keith. That evening we made our way to the Ferrario's who always treat us as part of their family. It's amazing to have such wonderful friends.
Through the next week before leaving town, we slowly cleaned up the Holiday decorations, played Pie Face (a gift from Kaylee to Daddy), had play dates, and even got to feed the whole Ferrario zoo while they were away. Then we were off to Big Bear to bring in the 2018. We first dropped off Porter at Greg's cabin before heading to the Sklenicka's place. It was a totally different scene than last year as there was absolutely no snow to be seen. We made the most of it, enjoying walks around the neighborhood, playing games inside and outside, and enjoying each others company. The girls loved playing with Jackson and making sure he was entertained. They also got to stay up for East Coast New Years, and the rest of us barely made it to midnight before hitting the sack.
After the New Year came we said goodbye to the Sklenicka's and made our way to Greg's cabin to spend the rest of the week together. Since the snow was missing in action we got a chance to switch up our activities from sledding and snowmen to going to the Big Bear Alpine Rehabilitation Zoo, and Discovery Center. We all agree that the zoo was one of our favorites! All the animals were so active, even the Grizzly's! We still went on plenty of walks through the beautiful neighborhood, played many game of Skip Bo, and the girls were very happy that they got to continue their video game of Ratatouille from last year. We all lasted a very smile filled full day on the mountain of man made snow. It was a fantastic day of snowboarding none the less. Each girl improved even more and there was no complaining, only good times. And no one got run over by a ski instructor this year.
It was then time to head home. As always the road trip was as pleasant as a car ride can be. When we got home, Cienna pretty much re packed her bag and headed to her first sleep over just down the street for Alexis's 10 Birthday party. She was quite exhausted the following day! While she was away Kaylee was overjoyed to have both Mommy and Daddy to herself. We jumped on the tramp together in the dark while Daddy made a strobe light with his phone, had a great dinner while watching a movie and she got to stay up late. The next evening Cienna finally lost her tooth, of which the adult tooth had pretty much already come all the way in. The girls were happy to spend a couple of nights in their own beds before heading back to school.
Mommy and Daddy then realized that they had a 10th Birthday party to plan. Evite went out a little late, but think it's going to be a fun time. Back to the routine for the week, but a three day weekend was coming up. The girls had their first meet of their first season as Level 3 gymnasts. It happened to be in Palm Springs, so we made a small trip out of it and stayed near Downtown where we could walk down the street and pick out a dinner place before going back to the motel and getting some good sleep before the meet the next morning. The Natal's had come to Southern California and it worked out so that they could come and route on the girls as they did their routines. Everyone was excited. The girls both had a fantastic time and did really well. We all went back to Long Beach to have dinner and playtime together before sending them on their way to Disneyland for a few days.
We prepared for a short week of school and had a couple of girl scout activities to finish off this last month. Cienna's troop made signs in preparation for planting trees in the neighborhood, and Kaylee's troop had their first of two lessons learning how to crochet.
The next time this is written, we will have a 10 year old. Time is passing so quick, but we are enjoying each moment and are very proud of our amazing little girls.
Check out the story in picture form below:
https://photos.app.goo.gl/DaDQKglJe902Bn6z2
Christmas morning was incredible as the girls came down stairs to cuddle in our bed and watch a show before slowly making our way to the living room and making a big breakfast to enjoy as we exchanged gifts with one another and were just thankful to be together. We then spent the afternoon spending time with and getting spoiled as always by Auntie Kimmie and Uncle Keith. That evening we made our way to the Ferrario's who always treat us as part of their family. It's amazing to have such wonderful friends.
Through the next week before leaving town, we slowly cleaned up the Holiday decorations, played Pie Face (a gift from Kaylee to Daddy), had play dates, and even got to feed the whole Ferrario zoo while they were away. Then we were off to Big Bear to bring in the 2018. We first dropped off Porter at Greg's cabin before heading to the Sklenicka's place. It was a totally different scene than last year as there was absolutely no snow to be seen. We made the most of it, enjoying walks around the neighborhood, playing games inside and outside, and enjoying each others company. The girls loved playing with Jackson and making sure he was entertained. They also got to stay up for East Coast New Years, and the rest of us barely made it to midnight before hitting the sack.
After the New Year came we said goodbye to the Sklenicka's and made our way to Greg's cabin to spend the rest of the week together. Since the snow was missing in action we got a chance to switch up our activities from sledding and snowmen to going to the Big Bear Alpine Rehabilitation Zoo, and Discovery Center. We all agree that the zoo was one of our favorites! All the animals were so active, even the Grizzly's! We still went on plenty of walks through the beautiful neighborhood, played many game of Skip Bo, and the girls were very happy that they got to continue their video game of Ratatouille from last year. We all lasted a very smile filled full day on the mountain of man made snow. It was a fantastic day of snowboarding none the less. Each girl improved even more and there was no complaining, only good times. And no one got run over by a ski instructor this year.
It was then time to head home. As always the road trip was as pleasant as a car ride can be. When we got home, Cienna pretty much re packed her bag and headed to her first sleep over just down the street for Alexis's 10 Birthday party. She was quite exhausted the following day! While she was away Kaylee was overjoyed to have both Mommy and Daddy to herself. We jumped on the tramp together in the dark while Daddy made a strobe light with his phone, had a great dinner while watching a movie and she got to stay up late. The next evening Cienna finally lost her tooth, of which the adult tooth had pretty much already come all the way in. The girls were happy to spend a couple of nights in their own beds before heading back to school.
Mommy and Daddy then realized that they had a 10th Birthday party to plan. Evite went out a little late, but think it's going to be a fun time. Back to the routine for the week, but a three day weekend was coming up. The girls had their first meet of their first season as Level 3 gymnasts. It happened to be in Palm Springs, so we made a small trip out of it and stayed near Downtown where we could walk down the street and pick out a dinner place before going back to the motel and getting some good sleep before the meet the next morning. The Natal's had come to Southern California and it worked out so that they could come and route on the girls as they did their routines. Everyone was excited. The girls both had a fantastic time and did really well. We all went back to Long Beach to have dinner and playtime together before sending them on their way to Disneyland for a few days.
We prepared for a short week of school and had a couple of girl scout activities to finish off this last month. Cienna's troop made signs in preparation for planting trees in the neighborhood, and Kaylee's troop had their first of two lessons learning how to crochet.
The next time this is written, we will have a 10 year old. Time is passing so quick, but we are enjoying each moment and are very proud of our amazing little girls.
Check out the story in picture form below:
https://photos.app.goo.gl/DaDQKglJe902Bn6z2
Wednesday, December 20, 2017
Cienna - 9 Years, 11 Months... Kaylee - 7 Years, 6 Months!
On the road again to an fantastic time with family! First stop was the Natal's. They are always so welcoming and we all had fun talking the night away. Then the girls came down shortly after going to bed exclaiming that the littlest lost a tooth. So Grace decided that bedtime with cousins was the best time to pull that tooth out. The next morning Uncle and Auntie went for a Trot and we spent more time with cousins before heading to The Marty's to unpack for a couple of days. Shortly after us, The Marty's, Poppa, and The Natal's met back up at a great performance of the Little Mermaid put on by the SRJC. Afterward we all treated ourselves for a late lunch at the new Bear Republic in Rohnert Park. We had a great evening at the Marty's then let them sleep in a bit and went for a walk around their neighborhood. After a wonderful breakfast we all went to play miniature gulf at Scandia to get out of the house and into the rain : ) We spent the rest of the day enjoying family and smoking a tri-tip before waking up a little earlier to our first ThanksChristmasMorning.
Later that afternoon we headed out to Kenwood to let the girls stake their claim of what was left of Poppa's property. They had heard so much about the fire and were so curious and awe struck once we let them see. They kept some cool memorabilia that we have set in our backyard. That evening we headed to the Payne's house to do some hiking out their backyard and spend time together before going to Grammy and Grandpa's house for the night.
We spent most of the next morning relaxing as Grammy taught the girls a Ukulele and hula performance to show the next day when family came for Thanksgiving Day. That evening Grammy and Grandpa spoiled the girls as Mommy and Daddy met up with Abbey and Shaun for some drinks and dinner in downtown SR. It was so great to see them even if we didn't get to see the kids this time.
Thanksgiving Day Poppa, The Marty's, Natal's, McFarland's, Chris and Ryli, and other family friends got to spend time together! It was our first time meeting a new cousin Ryli and the girls had a lot of fun together. The following morning we did another ThanksChristmasMorning enjoying everyone's company including the rest of the McFarland clan. After being spoiled with gifts, we all took a walk to help out the nearby neighborhood that had be ruined by fire by spreading wildflowers in burnt but thriving areas. The girls mentioned how much it meant to them to be able to help any way that they could.
Then came our road trip back home, but we had a little time and decided to stay at Harris Ranch for some Rydman time. The girls loved the adventure and getting to play in the pool and Hot Tub with Daddy while Mommy watched and held Porter. It was nice to only have to go the other half of the way home on Saturday to have some time to unpack and get ready for the next week of school.
Now it was time for Christmas decorating, but first Kaylee got to be in the Belmont Shore Christmas Parade with her Brownie Troop. All our outdoor lighting looks amazing thanks to the girls and Daddy! We even took a drive to make sure and do a Choose and Cut Christmas tree this year. The girls brought it in the house themselves after Mommy and Daddy made it secure and cleaned up in its stand. We took some time decorating it throughout the following week during the nights that we had a little time. It's always fun to take time checking out the past ornaments that we have all gotten or made.
The next week at school Kaylee had an amazing field trip to LBState to see their production of White Christmas, which we have watched, and loved as a family, on TV. Then Cienna said goodbye to her student teachers with a party that the class had planned and help with a gift planned by Mommy.
Then all the practicing at gymnastics for the Holiday Show was upon us. Started with rehearsals then came the big day. The girls were fantastic in two shows that they had to do that day. Both girls got to do a solo routine in the second show of the day. Cienna on floor, and Kaylee on beam.
Finally Daddy got us all to understand the amazement of a train and convinced us to buy a new one at a local train store to ride around our Christmas tree, replacing the childhood one that we could no longer buy replacement parts for. Once we completed the train set-up, Mommy had a great YMCA gymnastics staff dinner at Lucille's.
Highlights of the following week included a Holiday Performance by Cienna and her Chorus then, our Team Gymnastics Holiday party, and immediately followed by Mommy and Me Party for Kaylee's Brownie Troop. We spent most of last Sunday together, then Daddy planned an awesome day with Brandon, Larry, Jerry, and Roman which Larry was gracious to host. The girls went to Barnes and Nobles and Pizza Rev in the mean time. Then next day was fun caroling in the neighborhood with Cienna's Junior Troop.
Both of the girls highlights from the month after asking them were... "All of it!
More fun and time to appreciate the things we have is upon us. Enjoy the pictures.
https://photos.app.goo.gl/R3lRCDf3L4kwpyTy1
Later that afternoon we headed out to Kenwood to let the girls stake their claim of what was left of Poppa's property. They had heard so much about the fire and were so curious and awe struck once we let them see. They kept some cool memorabilia that we have set in our backyard. That evening we headed to the Payne's house to do some hiking out their backyard and spend time together before going to Grammy and Grandpa's house for the night.
We spent most of the next morning relaxing as Grammy taught the girls a Ukulele and hula performance to show the next day when family came for Thanksgiving Day. That evening Grammy and Grandpa spoiled the girls as Mommy and Daddy met up with Abbey and Shaun for some drinks and dinner in downtown SR. It was so great to see them even if we didn't get to see the kids this time.
Thanksgiving Day Poppa, The Marty's, Natal's, McFarland's, Chris and Ryli, and other family friends got to spend time together! It was our first time meeting a new cousin Ryli and the girls had a lot of fun together. The following morning we did another ThanksChristmasMorning enjoying everyone's company including the rest of the McFarland clan. After being spoiled with gifts, we all took a walk to help out the nearby neighborhood that had be ruined by fire by spreading wildflowers in burnt but thriving areas. The girls mentioned how much it meant to them to be able to help any way that they could.
Then came our road trip back home, but we had a little time and decided to stay at Harris Ranch for some Rydman time. The girls loved the adventure and getting to play in the pool and Hot Tub with Daddy while Mommy watched and held Porter. It was nice to only have to go the other half of the way home on Saturday to have some time to unpack and get ready for the next week of school.
Now it was time for Christmas decorating, but first Kaylee got to be in the Belmont Shore Christmas Parade with her Brownie Troop. All our outdoor lighting looks amazing thanks to the girls and Daddy! We even took a drive to make sure and do a Choose and Cut Christmas tree this year. The girls brought it in the house themselves after Mommy and Daddy made it secure and cleaned up in its stand. We took some time decorating it throughout the following week during the nights that we had a little time. It's always fun to take time checking out the past ornaments that we have all gotten or made.
The next week at school Kaylee had an amazing field trip to LBState to see their production of White Christmas, which we have watched, and loved as a family, on TV. Then Cienna said goodbye to her student teachers with a party that the class had planned and help with a gift planned by Mommy.
Then all the practicing at gymnastics for the Holiday Show was upon us. Started with rehearsals then came the big day. The girls were fantastic in two shows that they had to do that day. Both girls got to do a solo routine in the second show of the day. Cienna on floor, and Kaylee on beam.
Finally Daddy got us all to understand the amazement of a train and convinced us to buy a new one at a local train store to ride around our Christmas tree, replacing the childhood one that we could no longer buy replacement parts for. Once we completed the train set-up, Mommy had a great YMCA gymnastics staff dinner at Lucille's.
Highlights of the following week included a Holiday Performance by Cienna and her Chorus then, our Team Gymnastics Holiday party, and immediately followed by Mommy and Me Party for Kaylee's Brownie Troop. We spent most of last Sunday together, then Daddy planned an awesome day with Brandon, Larry, Jerry, and Roman which Larry was gracious to host. The girls went to Barnes and Nobles and Pizza Rev in the mean time. Then next day was fun caroling in the neighborhood with Cienna's Junior Troop.
Both of the girls highlights from the month after asking them were... "All of it!
More fun and time to appreciate the things we have is upon us. Enjoy the pictures.
https://photos.app.goo.gl/R3lRCDf3L4kwpyTy1
Friday, November 17, 2017
Cienna - 9 Years, 10 Months... Kaylee - 7 Years, 5 Months!
We certainly made the most of Halloween this year. It got started right off the bat with the school Monster Mash celebration. There were games and treats all around. Luckily Mommy was on top of it and had just finished making the costumes that the girls had designed for the year. We got to make a Peacock and a Deer this year. And the girls made mommy and daddy as peanut butter and jelly. The Bakx re-instated their annual party with plenty of fun and music the next evening for the second chance to dress up. That Sunday the girls really wanted to finally show Daddy how well they have learned roller skating, so we went as a family and had a tremendous time! It took a little while for Daddy to remember, but it's just like riding a bike!
The following week leading up to Halloween weekend was Red Ribbon Week at school. And Mommy and Daddy took a very much anticipated trip to finally get to help Poppa visit his property as soon as we were allowed to assess the damage and help in any way we could. We are lucky to have such wonderful friends. The Marshall's kept the girls in Long Beach with very little interruption to their busy lives for two nights so they didn't miss anything at home and we could focus on helping family. Tom and Peggy Payne graciously came to help sift through the ashes and make it a better experience for all of us. We dropped the girls off at gym on Monday evening to start our drive up North, then came back Wed. evening to bring them back to the gym just in time : ) They missed us, but loved every moment of having a two day play date with their great buddies. The trip was very quick (got a lot done) and was great to get to be there with family.
After we came home more Halloween fun continued with a decked out gymnastics center full of characters and mazes. The next day, after soccer we joined the Chavez's for more food and friends. As we prepared for the actual Halloween, Mommy and Kaylee made Mummy wrapped wieners for daddy to take for his work party and we had a great time getting messy as we carved pumpkins to display on the front porch.
We once again joined the rowdy group of friends on Lanai to parade through the neighborhood and collect candy before leaving them and visiting neighbors on the way home to give away all the candy that the girls had just gotten to the later trick or treat-ers at our door. That week was also parent-teacher conferences at school. They were both very positive and we were re-assured that we have wonderful students as children.
After soccer the next weekend we had planned the Junior troop's very first camping trip... in our backyard! It was a complete success even though it was one of the only nights that it has rained pretty much the whole year. They stayed outside (since it is camping) and made their own pizza's, played lots of games, and just had a great time together. In the morning they had cocoa, and made crepes (finally getting to come in the house from the very wet backyard). At they're girls scout meeting the following week they got to learn about science from Ms. Delaney.
Mommy got an extra full day with the girls since they had the day off school for Veterans Day. They did a great job helping get all the errands done in the morning so they were spoiled, getting to get their nails done, then have frozen yogurt, and working together to build a shoe shelf for themselves to put in the front closet that afternoon before heading to gymnastics.
We had a very busy and fantastic following Saturday. Both girls had their last soccer game of the season and had so much fun before heading to their first (practice) gymnastics meet of the season at their gymnastics center. They both did a tremendous job along with all their teammates. They especially liked bringing home some buddies (Sadie and Shelby) for a play date after the meet that evening. We had Cienna's end of the year soccer party that Sunday, and Kaylee's this past Tuesday. We really enjoyed both teams this season! We are all looking forward to the upcoming holiday and trip up North today to have much desired family time for the upcoming week!
Cienna was very excited to win the most creative/homemade Halloween costume at the gym party, and she deserves it with how much she anticipates designing hers and her parents each year. She has also began some pretty awesome gift making for some of her family to see in the near future. She is continuing to excel at school and is growing like a weed.
Kaylee is keeping all of us in tune with our handball skills and has convinced daddy to let her play against the garage as long as she doesn't dent it. She spent a couple hours coming up with a cute short story that she wrote, edited, corrected, and is now proceeding to type into the computer just for fun.
Till next month.....
https://photos.app.goo.gl/zMkreJhZGzPnJUqa2
The following week leading up to Halloween weekend was Red Ribbon Week at school. And Mommy and Daddy took a very much anticipated trip to finally get to help Poppa visit his property as soon as we were allowed to assess the damage and help in any way we could. We are lucky to have such wonderful friends. The Marshall's kept the girls in Long Beach with very little interruption to their busy lives for two nights so they didn't miss anything at home and we could focus on helping family. Tom and Peggy Payne graciously came to help sift through the ashes and make it a better experience for all of us. We dropped the girls off at gym on Monday evening to start our drive up North, then came back Wed. evening to bring them back to the gym just in time : ) They missed us, but loved every moment of having a two day play date with their great buddies. The trip was very quick (got a lot done) and was great to get to be there with family.
After we came home more Halloween fun continued with a decked out gymnastics center full of characters and mazes. The next day, after soccer we joined the Chavez's for more food and friends. As we prepared for the actual Halloween, Mommy and Kaylee made Mummy wrapped wieners for daddy to take for his work party and we had a great time getting messy as we carved pumpkins to display on the front porch.
We once again joined the rowdy group of friends on Lanai to parade through the neighborhood and collect candy before leaving them and visiting neighbors on the way home to give away all the candy that the girls had just gotten to the later trick or treat-ers at our door. That week was also parent-teacher conferences at school. They were both very positive and we were re-assured that we have wonderful students as children.
After soccer the next weekend we had planned the Junior troop's very first camping trip... in our backyard! It was a complete success even though it was one of the only nights that it has rained pretty much the whole year. They stayed outside (since it is camping) and made their own pizza's, played lots of games, and just had a great time together. In the morning they had cocoa, and made crepes (finally getting to come in the house from the very wet backyard). At they're girls scout meeting the following week they got to learn about science from Ms. Delaney.
Mommy got an extra full day with the girls since they had the day off school for Veterans Day. They did a great job helping get all the errands done in the morning so they were spoiled, getting to get their nails done, then have frozen yogurt, and working together to build a shoe shelf for themselves to put in the front closet that afternoon before heading to gymnastics.
We had a very busy and fantastic following Saturday. Both girls had their last soccer game of the season and had so much fun before heading to their first (practice) gymnastics meet of the season at their gymnastics center. They both did a tremendous job along with all their teammates. They especially liked bringing home some buddies (Sadie and Shelby) for a play date after the meet that evening. We had Cienna's end of the year soccer party that Sunday, and Kaylee's this past Tuesday. We really enjoyed both teams this season! We are all looking forward to the upcoming holiday and trip up North today to have much desired family time for the upcoming week!
Cienna was very excited to win the most creative/homemade Halloween costume at the gym party, and she deserves it with how much she anticipates designing hers and her parents each year. She has also began some pretty awesome gift making for some of her family to see in the near future. She is continuing to excel at school and is growing like a weed.
Kaylee is keeping all of us in tune with our handball skills and has convinced daddy to let her play against the garage as long as she doesn't dent it. She spent a couple hours coming up with a cute short story that she wrote, edited, corrected, and is now proceeding to type into the computer just for fun.
Till next month.....
https://photos.app.goo.gl/zMkreJhZGzPnJUqa2
Saturday, October 21, 2017
Cienna - 9 Years, 9 Months... Kaylee - 7 Years, 4 Months!
The whole month was filled with soccer! At least for the girls which hasn't left Mommy and Daddy a chance to play their games on Saturday very often. They are having wonderful seasons this Fall!
For the beginning of the month, after a pool play date at Kamryn's, we started with Back to School night, getting to visit both of the girls teachers and hear what they have in store for the rest of the school year. Mommy got to join the girls for the book fair when their classes got a chance to go. Then the first weekend Mommy joined Erin and other friends for dinner to celebrate her Birthday. The following week came school picture day already. Then the girls were excited to pick out costumes and head to the fabric store before walking our way down to Ulysses's Birthday Party.
We finally got back to doing a little work on the house, or at least the backyard. Filling in some trees that got blown over and some plants that were trampled by a puppy Porter many years ago. We then went as a family with some friends to watch the Women's LBUSD soccer team beat Hawaii in such a fun game. The girls even got to give hi fives to the players on the field and score a goal during half time! Kaylee then had a fun Brownie meeting the next week before we said goodbye to Daddy as he headed for a long awaited 40th Birthday with AMAZING friends to Colorado for the Great American Beer Festival.
While Daddy was getting to enjoy all of his planning efforts for the festival, the girls had their gymnastics team banquet at the main YMCA which was followed by a night swim party. The girls got awards for such a great previous year and moving up to the competitive team. Even Mommy got fun notes from the gymnasts and a pretty awesome Under Armor backpack as a gift of appreciation. We got a chance to take Lula for a walk and play date with Porter as the Marshall's spent the day in SD. And after much desire from Cienna, Mommy got to begin making her Halloween costume, and she began on Mommy and Daddy's.
Daddy then came back home to us. It looked and sounded like they all had a great time from the pictures and stories we've heard! We had help from a neighbor friend Sara to bring the girls to school so Daddy could get to the airport early with the Netters on the way there. Then the Netter girls came to watch them when Mommy went to pick them up.
Unfortunately the next morning a tragedy happened. We are all happy to be safe and loved! We did suffer some loss and tough times with the major wild fire hitting our home town and devastating our good friends and families lives. We are so sorry what has happened and what they have gone through and want to do all we can to help. It has been tough to continue daily routines helping how we can from here, but I imagine that nothing compares to having gone through it first hand. We are still waiting for the evacuation to be lifted from Poppa's house to be able to come and help move onward from here.
The girls did have a class picture day followed by a run around Soccer picture and game day for both of the girls. Kaylee then enjoyed a roller skating Birthday party for Alyssa. She has been wanting to go for a long time. Meanwhile Mommy has been scrambling to get both of the girls costumes done in time for their School Halloween Bash in just a couple days!
Cienna has yet lost another tooth. Pulled it out first thing one morning. She is excited for her Peacock costume for the Halloween fun. Soccer has been awesome and she still gets so many comments on how she just doesn't stop smiling while she is playing! Pears are her favorite snack and she has enjoyed learning more things in the fourth grade.
Second grade has been great for Kaylee! She has been a model student for her teacher and is often one of the few to move up in her behavior clip to the highest spot. She has been loving soccer as well and even practices with Cienna's U10 team sometimes. The parents ask if she can join their team too! She had wanted to go roller skating for a long time and it was tough at first but she kept at it and by the end of the party was doing great. Mommy however was still very nervous about all the girls falling. She had to get skates and go on the rink with them : )
"The love in the air is thicker than the smoke"
https://photos.app.goo.gl/hhm5oc84ugv4cYQh1
For the beginning of the month, after a pool play date at Kamryn's, we started with Back to School night, getting to visit both of the girls teachers and hear what they have in store for the rest of the school year. Mommy got to join the girls for the book fair when their classes got a chance to go. Then the first weekend Mommy joined Erin and other friends for dinner to celebrate her Birthday. The following week came school picture day already. Then the girls were excited to pick out costumes and head to the fabric store before walking our way down to Ulysses's Birthday Party.
We finally got back to doing a little work on the house, or at least the backyard. Filling in some trees that got blown over and some plants that were trampled by a puppy Porter many years ago. We then went as a family with some friends to watch the Women's LBUSD soccer team beat Hawaii in such a fun game. The girls even got to give hi fives to the players on the field and score a goal during half time! Kaylee then had a fun Brownie meeting the next week before we said goodbye to Daddy as he headed for a long awaited 40th Birthday with AMAZING friends to Colorado for the Great American Beer Festival.
While Daddy was getting to enjoy all of his planning efforts for the festival, the girls had their gymnastics team banquet at the main YMCA which was followed by a night swim party. The girls got awards for such a great previous year and moving up to the competitive team. Even Mommy got fun notes from the gymnasts and a pretty awesome Under Armor backpack as a gift of appreciation. We got a chance to take Lula for a walk and play date with Porter as the Marshall's spent the day in SD. And after much desire from Cienna, Mommy got to begin making her Halloween costume, and she began on Mommy and Daddy's.
Daddy then came back home to us. It looked and sounded like they all had a great time from the pictures and stories we've heard! We had help from a neighbor friend Sara to bring the girls to school so Daddy could get to the airport early with the Netters on the way there. Then the Netter girls came to watch them when Mommy went to pick them up.
Unfortunately the next morning a tragedy happened. We are all happy to be safe and loved! We did suffer some loss and tough times with the major wild fire hitting our home town and devastating our good friends and families lives. We are so sorry what has happened and what they have gone through and want to do all we can to help. It has been tough to continue daily routines helping how we can from here, but I imagine that nothing compares to having gone through it first hand. We are still waiting for the evacuation to be lifted from Poppa's house to be able to come and help move onward from here.
The girls did have a class picture day followed by a run around Soccer picture and game day for both of the girls. Kaylee then enjoyed a roller skating Birthday party for Alyssa. She has been wanting to go for a long time. Meanwhile Mommy has been scrambling to get both of the girls costumes done in time for their School Halloween Bash in just a couple days!
Cienna has yet lost another tooth. Pulled it out first thing one morning. She is excited for her Peacock costume for the Halloween fun. Soccer has been awesome and she still gets so many comments on how she just doesn't stop smiling while she is playing! Pears are her favorite snack and she has enjoyed learning more things in the fourth grade.
Second grade has been great for Kaylee! She has been a model student for her teacher and is often one of the few to move up in her behavior clip to the highest spot. She has been loving soccer as well and even practices with Cienna's U10 team sometimes. The parents ask if she can join their team too! She had wanted to go roller skating for a long time and it was tough at first but she kept at it and by the end of the party was doing great. Mommy however was still very nervous about all the girls falling. She had to get skates and go on the rink with them : )
"The love in the air is thicker than the smoke"
https://photos.app.goo.gl/hhm5oc84ugv4cYQh1
Wednesday, September 20, 2017
Cienna - 9 Years, 8 Months... Kaylee - 7 Years, 3 Months!
After we reminded the girls that we had an attic, of course they wanted to explore. So of course we let them during a play date with family friends to spread the fun. The next day a gym buddy had a swim party at their home to end the summer and get the team together outside of the gym.
Then we got a opportunity that we couldn't pass up with four free tickets through the gymnastics center to watch the women's gymnastics national team compete at the Anaheim Convention Center. We decided to make the most of the weekend and included a stay-cation at the Hilton that we've enjoyed before. It has a little water park and a great environment, full of awkward Pokemon chasers, but otherwise a very inviting area. Amazingly Mommy's old gymnastics coach Darcie was staying at the same hotel for a gym coach convention and we got to hang out in the lobby to catch up for a little while! Cienna lost another tooth during the stay, which was still not the one that is supposed to be being pushed out. After going to a cool pizza take out place for dinner, Kaylee carried all 3 pizzas back the hotel room.
Two weeks before school, soccer started! They both had their first practice and met their coaches and teammates. One of the coaches for Cienna is Mommy since we needed to get practice adjusted to fit into our schedule! Mommy and the girls also had eye doctor appointments that week. Kaylee got some prescribed glasses for reading and Mommy got a slight upgrade. Kaylee loved trying on a few different frames and picking the ones she liked the best. That weekend we had a tremendous last camping trip of the summer to Lake Casitas. Such great friends, a water park, Kan Jam, Corn Hole, scooting around, day and night adventure bike rides, and board games completed a fantastic time. On the way home we hit up a great place called The Dudes Brewing Co. with the Bakx family.
Once home we headed straight to another end of summer swim party at Cienna's buddy Jaiden's house. Then Mommy took the Monday and Tuesday off before the First day of school. We got school supplies, played around, finally got around to baking the apple pie from apples we picked at Poppa's, and enjoyed every moment.
Then came the beginning of Second and Fourth grade. It was very exciting and confusing. How did this happen? Can anyone tell us? The girls were excited to see all their friends and to be in class with their new teachers. The school year is off to a pretty perfect start. Both girls are very into it and are always ready to go the next day.
After only a couple of days at school we all got a three day weekend for Labor Day. We had more family play time, a swim Birthday party for Cienna's classmate Bella and a fun-filled swim and game time BBQ at the Bakx house. During the next short week at school, Kaylee had her first meeting as a Brownie.
Then soccer was on. First games of the season, they got their jersey's, team names, and banners! We had a play date with Shawna, did a ponytail extravaganza on Daddy's hair, a couple family rides around the neighborhood and to school. Then getting ready for the first full week of school, Cienna finally looses the tooth that we have been waiting for. She was relieved to not have to think about getting it pulled by the dentist. After gymnastics that evening we headed next door for ice cream and cake to celebrate Haiden turning 7!
The month did not slow down for the last weekend. Both girls had soccer games, between the two games Mommy earned points for Cienna's team by referring her very first game ever, Kaylee went to a fun fly away camp at gymnastics, then we all had a great time at Nicki's "un-slumber" party that evening before heading home for bed to be up early to be ready for our trip to San Diego. We got to enjoy Jackson's 1st Birthday party during a quick trip and afterward headed back home to enjoy watching Cienna's Girl Scout troop bridge from Brownie's to Juniors! Cienna surprised everybody as the first one to go by doing a back handspring as she went across the bridge.
As mentioned Cienna has lost the long awaited loose tooth. She did get a pretty good bump on her head during one of the many pool parties, but nobody would have known by the smiling way she handled it. She has enjoyed cooking her own and others scrambled eggs exclusively by herself. She's excited to have homework again and is very happy every time she is on the soccer field.
Kaylee was very excited to see how the new school year was going to go and who was in her class. She has really had an amazing attitude toward school and has been one in a few of her class to "mover her clip" to the highest level and get a prize from the box. She has still been the one to initiate many family game time as always, which we all love. Her new experience with glasses has been extremely positive! She was excited about it ever since the doctor mentioned it was the right thing to do for when she is reading or writing for a longer period of time. She is very responsible with them, and they are quite adorable.
I loved all the experiences of summer, but now on to new ones! Time Flies!
https://photos.app.goo.gl/ejMeoCpG5Ovyp6223
Then we got a opportunity that we couldn't pass up with four free tickets through the gymnastics center to watch the women's gymnastics national team compete at the Anaheim Convention Center. We decided to make the most of the weekend and included a stay-cation at the Hilton that we've enjoyed before. It has a little water park and a great environment, full of awkward Pokemon chasers, but otherwise a very inviting area. Amazingly Mommy's old gymnastics coach Darcie was staying at the same hotel for a gym coach convention and we got to hang out in the lobby to catch up for a little while! Cienna lost another tooth during the stay, which was still not the one that is supposed to be being pushed out. After going to a cool pizza take out place for dinner, Kaylee carried all 3 pizzas back the hotel room.
Two weeks before school, soccer started! They both had their first practice and met their coaches and teammates. One of the coaches for Cienna is Mommy since we needed to get practice adjusted to fit into our schedule! Mommy and the girls also had eye doctor appointments that week. Kaylee got some prescribed glasses for reading and Mommy got a slight upgrade. Kaylee loved trying on a few different frames and picking the ones she liked the best. That weekend we had a tremendous last camping trip of the summer to Lake Casitas. Such great friends, a water park, Kan Jam, Corn Hole, scooting around, day and night adventure bike rides, and board games completed a fantastic time. On the way home we hit up a great place called The Dudes Brewing Co. with the Bakx family.
Once home we headed straight to another end of summer swim party at Cienna's buddy Jaiden's house. Then Mommy took the Monday and Tuesday off before the First day of school. We got school supplies, played around, finally got around to baking the apple pie from apples we picked at Poppa's, and enjoyed every moment.
Then came the beginning of Second and Fourth grade. It was very exciting and confusing. How did this happen? Can anyone tell us? The girls were excited to see all their friends and to be in class with their new teachers. The school year is off to a pretty perfect start. Both girls are very into it and are always ready to go the next day.
After only a couple of days at school we all got a three day weekend for Labor Day. We had more family play time, a swim Birthday party for Cienna's classmate Bella and a fun-filled swim and game time BBQ at the Bakx house. During the next short week at school, Kaylee had her first meeting as a Brownie.
Then soccer was on. First games of the season, they got their jersey's, team names, and banners! We had a play date with Shawna, did a ponytail extravaganza on Daddy's hair, a couple family rides around the neighborhood and to school. Then getting ready for the first full week of school, Cienna finally looses the tooth that we have been waiting for. She was relieved to not have to think about getting it pulled by the dentist. After gymnastics that evening we headed next door for ice cream and cake to celebrate Haiden turning 7!
The month did not slow down for the last weekend. Both girls had soccer games, between the two games Mommy earned points for Cienna's team by referring her very first game ever, Kaylee went to a fun fly away camp at gymnastics, then we all had a great time at Nicki's "un-slumber" party that evening before heading home for bed to be up early to be ready for our trip to San Diego. We got to enjoy Jackson's 1st Birthday party during a quick trip and afterward headed back home to enjoy watching Cienna's Girl Scout troop bridge from Brownie's to Juniors! Cienna surprised everybody as the first one to go by doing a back handspring as she went across the bridge.
As mentioned Cienna has lost the long awaited loose tooth. She did get a pretty good bump on her head during one of the many pool parties, but nobody would have known by the smiling way she handled it. She has enjoyed cooking her own and others scrambled eggs exclusively by herself. She's excited to have homework again and is very happy every time she is on the soccer field.
Kaylee was very excited to see how the new school year was going to go and who was in her class. She has really had an amazing attitude toward school and has been one in a few of her class to "mover her clip" to the highest level and get a prize from the box. She has still been the one to initiate many family game time as always, which we all love. Her new experience with glasses has been extremely positive! She was excited about it ever since the doctor mentioned it was the right thing to do for when she is reading or writing for a longer period of time. She is very responsible with them, and they are quite adorable.
I loved all the experiences of summer, but now on to new ones! Time Flies!
https://photos.app.goo.gl/ejMeoCpG5Ovyp6223
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)