Oh what fun are the holiday's?! After much anticipation, Kaylee got 4 top braces. The girls all had parties to close up school before two weeks of break. Daddy even had a work party at the Queen Mary and got his BBQ! The girls had fun painting a winter scene at Leah's Birthday party, then it was Christmas Eve. We prepared for Santa's arrival and a fun morning together as a family. The girls got up and headed to our room for some cuddle time, before we all got out of bed and tackled the mound of gifts that we shared with each other. The best part of the day is being together. We took a nice walk outside then shared our time with wonderful neighbors and friends. First we headed over to the Snow's for afternoon fun before going over to spend the evening and a wonderfully prepared meal at the Ferrario's.
The next day was spent preparing for our big departure to our Hawaiian Adventure with Poppa and the Marty's. We got a perfectly timed flight out of Long Beach. We had a beautiful morning walk to the airport, then after a nice flight to Oahu we had lunch at the Honolulu airport before our quick jaunt to Maui. We were greeted with Lei's when we got off of the flight and after we picked our Challenger rental car and drove to Kanapali, we met up with the Marty's at our amazing cottage homes for the coming week.
We spent the evening exploring the place and taking in our surroundings. We ordered room service for dinner and enjoyed the company. The first full day Mommy and Daddy took and early run down the beach path, and we all spent some time at the beach before we learned the way of the shuttle service and went to Whaler's village. That evening the parents all went to an incredibly entertaining magic show and dinner. The cousins also had fun hanging out together without us.
With a plan to head to the large Banyan tree in Lahina we did some more sight seeing and hit up Lahina Pizza Co. before enjoying Ululani's shaved ice. More fun in the sun, then take out dinner from Paia Fish Market ended out another great day.
We were so fortunate with the weather through the whole time we were there!!!! This snorkle excursion was the best ever. First time the girls had snorkeled. The trip on the boat wasn't windy and the weather was warm. They took to snorkeling like the fish we got to see! We first went to Molakini crater after a nice breakfast on the boat, and they weren't even put off that we were out in deep ocean water. Each of them even went off the slide at the back of the boat after an hour of snorkeling before heading to Turtle Beach which was even cooler since we got to snorkel with turtles that were about 3 feet long close to where we were. We all had a fun party back to the Maui dock with a nice BBQ lunch including cookies. That evening all 9 of us got in for another great dinner at Monkeypot, again in Whaler's village.
Then came the last day of 2019. We went to explore more of the island heading North to check out a blowhole and some more waves at DT Fleming park. We came back in time to dress up for the upcoming Luau and a scheduled photo shoot with the Hotel photographer. The Luau was at our hotel and the food and entertainment was all that we could've wanted to bring in the New Year!
Mommy and Daddy enjoyed their 3rd run together before we joined Trevor at his Surfing Lesson. He caught on really quick and had a great time. We all then went to Maui brewing company for lunch and played another round of cards while we made tacos for dinner.
Snorkeling and wake boarding was next on the agenda to rent the next day as we all walked to the other side of black rock. We again got to swim with fish and turtles. These turtles were a bit smaller than the others, but still so cool to see. We had a big dinner planned for the evening at Leilani's in Whaler's village. We got there with some time to spend so the girls purchased some items that they had previously picked to buy with their Christmas "credit cards". Kaylee bought a Hawaii water bottle an stickers to remind her of our time, and Cienna got a really cool T-shirt from a local Cahini wear shop.
Only the last morning there did it decide to rain. We all took a walk and enjoyed every last second. We said goodbye to the Marty's and Poppa and set out to the airport with a colorful rainbow behind us. The flight was easy and another walk back home was good to get the jitters out. We were happy to be home and see Porter and Cuty.
We are so fortunate and thankful for all the adventures we get to spend together!!
The next couple days, we spent getting back to reality and enjoying being home together. We also had a very involved 12th birthday party to plan.
Cienna went to a murder mystery party birthday for Lexie, and we started building games for her Game Show Themed Party. The most involved was the Plinko board with Cliff Hangers painted on the other side. There were also plenty of details to iron out for the games as well as the entire structure of the party itself! Mommy and Daddy had fun working together to make a full proof plan, although the 2 hour birthday party had to change to a 3.5 hour party due to all the fun that needs to happen.
Then back to school and work, except Mommy got called in for Jury Duty that Monday. She made it to the panel, then got graciously excused the second day. As we all started getting back in the grove of things, Cienna was a star on stage for her first Middle School Chorus concert. Then the next weekend Mommy coached the Optional's for their first meet before we all enjoyed some time with the Natal's on their Disney vacation at Ballast Point Restaurant for dinner in Downtown Disney.
Let the good times roll!!!
Check out the photos below:
https://photos.app.goo.gl/zs1x6Ekgv8vzFhDX6
Friday, January 24, 2020
Wednesday, December 18, 2019
Cienna - 11 Years 11 Months... Kaylee - 9 Years 6 Months!
Such a wonderful past month as to begin the winter season! Well, first we completed the Fall soccer season with our final Team Party. Then Thanks giving break was here. We packed up our truck and headed up North excited for a full week of family time.
We drove into Poppa's for a wonderful post road trip evening, minus a slight melting pizza in the oven mishap. The next day was our first Thanksgiving dinner at Sean and Jamie's beautiful home. The Natal's and Grammy and Grandpa all came and we had a blast enjoying each others company, playing games in the great outdoor weather, preparing for a delicious dinner, and laughing through the evening as all the cousins slept in the same room (Jacob was there in spirit but he was in the next room sleeping).
Off to Grammy and Grandpa's we all then went for Christmas morning. More great food followed by the kids getting spoiled with presents before the Natal's had to head home. We played some more, went on a walk around the neighborhood, and had some relaxing with the McFarlands. Grammy of course took some time that day to take the girls on a fun shopping spree.
We joined up with the Marty's and Poppa the following day at the Epicenter for lunch, bowling, and bounce house fun since it was raining that day. Afterward the girls got some gymnastics time in and even Mommy got to help coach with Darcie.
We headed back to Poppa's Wednesday afternoon to help prepare for the following days festivities and to set up some electronics around the house. Thanksgiving morning was actually our next Christmas celebration at Poppa's when the Marty's arrived. We all took our time opening gifts, catching up on life in general, and slowly preparing for the afternoon arrivals of more family, food and fun. Auntie Sheryl and Jerry came with Jonna and her girls Alex and Emma, also Kathy a friend of Poppa's joined the party. The house worked out great for hosting its first full blown Thanksgiving dinner and deserts galore!
We are lucky to have such great family all around and cherish the time we get to spend together!
Friday we headed for the long journey home. On the way we made a quick stop to see the Natal's play some flag football with their friends. Other than that the trip was un-eventful, but long. We did however get to see some snow on the mountains and on the side of the road over the Grapevine.
It was good to have a couple of days to prepare for the week ahead with Daddy heading to a work trip in Atlanta. We also squeezed in some family time to go out to breakfast and to a movie to watch Frozen 2.
Cienna had her first wonderful Middle school band performance that week. And the girls gymnastics Holiday performance that they have been working on for months now was finally here. They had a dress rehearsal on Friday before we all spent the entire Saturday starting with set-up, followed by two very successful performances, and then tear down and clean up went far into the evening. It was a long but rewarding day.
Sunday was our first go at getting some Christmas decorations started. We got up the lights and some indoor nick nacks were set up, we even got the tree set up (the tree lights and ornaments would have to wait). Mommy and Kaylee spent many hours that day also learning all about the Cahuilla tribe for a up coming school project. The next holiday activities included Whoville Family Night at Carver and the girls had their gymnastics holiday potluck and secret Santa gift exchange for the whole team.
That weekend we even had time to finish decorating the tree and set-up the train! Saturday evening we joined the Bakx's, and Schafer's on a lit up walk along The Naples Canals. We even got to see the boat show along the way. Then Sunday we all made a ton of Peppermint Bark and dipped pretzel sticks to share with friends and family. It was our first time attempting either one, but think it was successful.
Finishing up the month, Kaylee had her first school Chorus performance, and a class field trip to the Getty Center, and Mommy had her coaches holiday party at the gymnastics center.
Going through life together, is what makes it great! The girls just keep figuring out life each day (we haven't told them that you'll never really figure it out) and growing into kind, adventurous, silly, stubborn, smart, and wonderful people with personalities all their own. We look forward to what each day will bring.
https://photos.app.goo.gl/B66WrLeGoDU3hdi36
We drove into Poppa's for a wonderful post road trip evening, minus a slight melting pizza in the oven mishap. The next day was our first Thanksgiving dinner at Sean and Jamie's beautiful home. The Natal's and Grammy and Grandpa all came and we had a blast enjoying each others company, playing games in the great outdoor weather, preparing for a delicious dinner, and laughing through the evening as all the cousins slept in the same room (Jacob was there in spirit but he was in the next room sleeping).
Off to Grammy and Grandpa's we all then went for Christmas morning. More great food followed by the kids getting spoiled with presents before the Natal's had to head home. We played some more, went on a walk around the neighborhood, and had some relaxing with the McFarlands. Grammy of course took some time that day to take the girls on a fun shopping spree.
We joined up with the Marty's and Poppa the following day at the Epicenter for lunch, bowling, and bounce house fun since it was raining that day. Afterward the girls got some gymnastics time in and even Mommy got to help coach with Darcie.
We headed back to Poppa's Wednesday afternoon to help prepare for the following days festivities and to set up some electronics around the house. Thanksgiving morning was actually our next Christmas celebration at Poppa's when the Marty's arrived. We all took our time opening gifts, catching up on life in general, and slowly preparing for the afternoon arrivals of more family, food and fun. Auntie Sheryl and Jerry came with Jonna and her girls Alex and Emma, also Kathy a friend of Poppa's joined the party. The house worked out great for hosting its first full blown Thanksgiving dinner and deserts galore!
We are lucky to have such great family all around and cherish the time we get to spend together!
Friday we headed for the long journey home. On the way we made a quick stop to see the Natal's play some flag football with their friends. Other than that the trip was un-eventful, but long. We did however get to see some snow on the mountains and on the side of the road over the Grapevine.
It was good to have a couple of days to prepare for the week ahead with Daddy heading to a work trip in Atlanta. We also squeezed in some family time to go out to breakfast and to a movie to watch Frozen 2.
Cienna had her first wonderful Middle school band performance that week. And the girls gymnastics Holiday performance that they have been working on for months now was finally here. They had a dress rehearsal on Friday before we all spent the entire Saturday starting with set-up, followed by two very successful performances, and then tear down and clean up went far into the evening. It was a long but rewarding day.
Sunday was our first go at getting some Christmas decorations started. We got up the lights and some indoor nick nacks were set up, we even got the tree set up (the tree lights and ornaments would have to wait). Mommy and Kaylee spent many hours that day also learning all about the Cahuilla tribe for a up coming school project. The next holiday activities included Whoville Family Night at Carver and the girls had their gymnastics holiday potluck and secret Santa gift exchange for the whole team.
That weekend we even had time to finish decorating the tree and set-up the train! Saturday evening we joined the Bakx's, and Schafer's on a lit up walk along The Naples Canals. We even got to see the boat show along the way. Then Sunday we all made a ton of Peppermint Bark and dipped pretzel sticks to share with friends and family. It was our first time attempting either one, but think it was successful.
Finishing up the month, Kaylee had her first school Chorus performance, and a class field trip to the Getty Center, and Mommy had her coaches holiday party at the gymnastics center.
Going through life together, is what makes it great! The girls just keep figuring out life each day (we haven't told them that you'll never really figure it out) and growing into kind, adventurous, silly, stubborn, smart, and wonderful people with personalities all their own. We look forward to what each day will bring.
https://photos.app.goo.gl/B66WrLeGoDU3hdi36
Friday, November 22, 2019
Cienna - 11 Years 10 Months... Kaylee - 9 Years 5 Months!
We are getting in the groove of Middle School. It was great to have a lunch on the lawn for all sixth graders with Cienna. It's been fun leaning the ropes on how to volunteer and help out! That weekend both girls had a fun minute to win it type birthday with Clara and many gym friends. And then we were all doing our best to finish up Halloween costumes for the upcoming events. They all turned out amazing. The girls worked hard on Daddy's "Grocery Mark-et" and Mommy's California Blue Bat" costumes. The girls really liked their Gumball and Ringmaster costumes!
It all started with the Adams party. The next day was Carver Trunk or Treat with the gymnastics Halloween party immediately after where Cienna, again won an award for her costume. We then had a great impromptu dinner with the Marshall's and Kaspar's. That Sunday we got to join so many great friend for an annual Halloween party at the park full of games, food and planned trick or treating at a nearby park. After heading home we joined a neighborhood pumpkin carving party.
Cienna got to have her very first time ever wearing her Halloween costume to school! Afterward we headed to the Marshall's to meet up with a great group of friends for some dinner before heading out to Trick or Treat in the neighborhood. There was even a pretty amazingly spooky haunted house just a block away!
As if there weren't enough parties, Kaylee then got to celebrate Aurelia's 9th birthday with a sleepover including a trip to Sky Zone and plenty of fun! Soccer season pool play came to an end and both Cienna and Kaylee's team got third place in their division as they headed to the end of season tournament. Both teams were so much fun to coach and be a part of! It's great to see so many of the same faces through the season that we've either played with or against.
Red ribbon week at Carver was a success, including the always anticipated assembly that includes a landing of a LBPD helicopter on the blacktop and a visit with the local LBPD. Mommy and Daddy had a parent/teacher conference with Kaylee's teacher. All is great as expected. The end of soccer season tournament began (Belmont Cup), both teams played some amazing games and all showed extreme improvement against teams that the had previously played! Cienna's team barely missed out to continue to the next weekend but had a blast anyway. Then we spontaneously decided that we needed to make our last chance to see Circus Vargas at our local Mall parking lot before they left town. It was truly inspirational and amazing!
That Sunday we headed to San Diego to be sure and celebrate Rigg's 1st Birthday. It was great as always to have and make the opportunity to spend time with the Sklenicka's! Kaylee's team then had their end of season parties hosted by the twins before finishing out the the season making it to all three games of the Belmont Cup finals despite playing short one player for the first two. They all had a great time playing together.
After the last game of soccer for the season, both girls had an exciting "In house/practice" gymnastics meet. All of our gymnastics team got to perform each event. It was Cienna and Kaylee's first time competing Level 5. It was the first time for most others in a new level, or first time ever competing. Although it was only our team, they all did so great and were so supportive of each other!
They are growing as kids, and friends, and people. They are amazing. We love growing along with them! We welcome the holidays with each other and friends and FAMILY!
https://photos.app.goo.gl/qKjY8UJt1kub54jv8
It all started with the Adams party. The next day was Carver Trunk or Treat with the gymnastics Halloween party immediately after where Cienna, again won an award for her costume. We then had a great impromptu dinner with the Marshall's and Kaspar's. That Sunday we got to join so many great friend for an annual Halloween party at the park full of games, food and planned trick or treating at a nearby park. After heading home we joined a neighborhood pumpkin carving party.
Cienna got to have her very first time ever wearing her Halloween costume to school! Afterward we headed to the Marshall's to meet up with a great group of friends for some dinner before heading out to Trick or Treat in the neighborhood. There was even a pretty amazingly spooky haunted house just a block away!
As if there weren't enough parties, Kaylee then got to celebrate Aurelia's 9th birthday with a sleepover including a trip to Sky Zone and plenty of fun! Soccer season pool play came to an end and both Cienna and Kaylee's team got third place in their division as they headed to the end of season tournament. Both teams were so much fun to coach and be a part of! It's great to see so many of the same faces through the season that we've either played with or against.
Red ribbon week at Carver was a success, including the always anticipated assembly that includes a landing of a LBPD helicopter on the blacktop and a visit with the local LBPD. Mommy and Daddy had a parent/teacher conference with Kaylee's teacher. All is great as expected. The end of soccer season tournament began (Belmont Cup), both teams played some amazing games and all showed extreme improvement against teams that the had previously played! Cienna's team barely missed out to continue to the next weekend but had a blast anyway. Then we spontaneously decided that we needed to make our last chance to see Circus Vargas at our local Mall parking lot before they left town. It was truly inspirational and amazing!
That Sunday we headed to San Diego to be sure and celebrate Rigg's 1st Birthday. It was great as always to have and make the opportunity to spend time with the Sklenicka's! Kaylee's team then had their end of season parties hosted by the twins before finishing out the the season making it to all three games of the Belmont Cup finals despite playing short one player for the first two. They all had a great time playing together.
After the last game of soccer for the season, both girls had an exciting "In house/practice" gymnastics meet. All of our gymnastics team got to perform each event. It was Cienna and Kaylee's first time competing Level 5. It was the first time for most others in a new level, or first time ever competing. Although it was only our team, they all did so great and were so supportive of each other!
They are growing as kids, and friends, and people. They are amazing. We love growing along with them! We welcome the holidays with each other and friends and FAMILY!
https://photos.app.goo.gl/qKjY8UJt1kub54jv8
Tuesday, October 22, 2019
Cienna - 11 Years 9 Months... Kaylee - 9 Years 4 Months!
We were lucky to come across a couple of tickets to watch a Galaxy game the first weekend of this last month thanks to Kristen and so we decided to buy the two seats next to those so that we could all go as a family. It was fan appreciation and there was some fun exhibits to join before watching a great game. Fall soccer is in full swing for us and also going quickly as it will be coming to an end next month. Both teams have done awesome and the girls truly are standing out with how much fun they have and how well they are playing. They just continue to improve!
Kaylee got her expander and is anticipating her braces soon. Mommy and Daddy got to go to Back to School night at Marshall which we made are way to each of her 7 periods in a much shortened time frame than she does each day to listen to her teachers and get a sense of her new every day schedule at Middle School. Later in the month Mommy got to join Cienna for a lunch on the lawn for all sixth graders only.
We learned Middle School doesn't have quite the picture day as elementary, they only take photos for their ID's, but Kaylee had her school picture day, and they both had Picture Day for AYSO. Of course all of the photos turned out great.
Mommy got to help celebrate Erin's Birthday Fiesta, then the girls joined the Pit cleaning party at gymnastics before we all headed to another Galaxy game with the Marshall's and Kaspar's.
We had a silent Saturday soccer game for all of our AYSO region that was very successful. Only the players were allowed to talk during the game. Coaches and parents were only allowed to clap. We liked it!!
Fall is a busy time with little left over, but we've had fun. We take every extra moment we have to be together and enjoy each other.. We make up games to play and things to do. We've worked on the Bronco.. a little. Costumes are almost complete. The girls have been working on Mommy's and Daddy's as well as helping make their own for the upcoming festivities. Family Halloween decorating is complete and Daddy even took the girls to Lowe's to add to our collection of decorations!
All of us shared our memories of Nana Nelson/GG with each other and how we will remember all she has done and been for the family and throughout her 99 very eventful and active years. Daddy got to go to the memorial and see her rest next to both Dexter and Ernie. She would want all of us to keep on dancing.
Saturday, September 21, 2019
Cienna - 11 Years 8 Months... Kaylee - 9 Years 3 Months!
So, the last full week of summer happened. Kaylee was very excited to have her orthodontist consultation. We had a few choices and decided to get the ball rolling. Cienna had her first day at Marshall without parents. The orientation was great and she had fun on her tour with her WEB leader. Daddy got her PE clothes with her that morning and Mommy and her got some Marshall Uniform wear after the parent presentation. Both girls had fun activities at Y camp for and they also went for the morning hours on Friday. That evening we finally got to go back to Islands after they had a big fire which they closed down for.
The girls had their routine doctors appointments, followed by lunchtime with the Marshall girls. That Saturday we had a blast at the Ferrario's for Jeff's 50th birthday party! And Sunday we had the Bakx and Dani over to bottle the beer that Daddy and Roman made for Dani and Tim's wedding. We even got the Bakx kids to stay and play for the night after a bike ride dinner at Baja Sanora.
Since school started on Wed. Mommy took the last two days of Summer off. We had a great day with lots of friends at the bay, then the girls got to pick the Souplantation for lunch before bowling with the Marshall girls.
Inevitably the first day of school arrived. We all walked Kaylee to class first thing. It was great to see familiar faces, she was excited and nervous at the same time. After saying goodbye to Kaylee the three of us walked on over to Marshall Middle School for our first time. Daddy joined the D.O.G.S for the first time in an amazing welcome back to school line for all the kids. Let's just say, it was easier for Cienna than Mommy and Daddy.
Both girls had a great summer and were also happy to be back in school. It is a fun transition, but there has been a little denial that they are getting older. We are getting into the groove with the new schedule with new school activities, along with soccer and gymnastics.
That weekend Mommy got to carve out at least a little time to catch up Darcie in passing at the LB airport as she was in San Diego for a gymnastics convention and spending time with family in Catalina. A three day weekend followed due to Labor Day. Michele and Linda threw a great party down the street on Sunday and Monday we spent the time together as a family with a long bike ride on the beach with lunch in the middle at Yard House. Kaylee was cruising her new bike and teaching herself to ride with no hands. We even made a stop at Mommy and Daddy's first apartment they shared together and the girls did a handstand photo shoot. Unfortunately Daddy ruptured his hamstring the next week, but is working through it like a champ.
Following the school week we had the start of soccer games on Saturday then got to head straight to Carlsbad for Dani and Tim's wedding. Auntie Kimmie also had a wedding to go to, so we finally found a good time to get our annual mani/pedi that we give for each others birthday. Kaylee was lucky enough to get to join us. Both girls had wonderful games. Kaylee scored a hat trick in the first quarter and Cienna's team tied it up 1-1 in the last minutes of the game. After a decent road trip to Carlsbad we all showered and got ready in a wonderful hotel and met up with friends to celebrate Dani and Tim. After the ceremony there was a fun dinner and dancing reception nearby. We all stayed up too late but had a great time. The girls got up the next morning and had fun at the beach before enjoying a great breakfast and exploring the area. We met back up with the happy couple for lunch before heading home to get ready for the next/first full week of school.
The week was spent getting into the routine of the weeks to come. We are all excited for new adventures and activities. Our last weekend we had a couple more fantastic soccer games, four more goals by Kaylee and a fantastic save as center back by Cienna. Mommy also finally got to play her first Fall soccer game. We ended the weekend with the gymnastics team banquet. There was a ton of great food, all of us got to dress up a little fancy, and there was even a ball room dancing lesson. Cienna earned a medal hanger for the most improved and they both got fun awards.
All of us joined Nicki for her birthday celebration on a Duffy Boat Tour around the bay. Daddy got to help co-captain and Mommy joined the girls in some fun games. It was the first time for all of us.
Since her first consultation, Kaylee got spacers, and molds, etc. all leading up to her expander. She continues to be excited through all of it.
It's certainly a busy time, but we enjoy all of it together!
https://photos.app.goo.gl/jekur4vvxkjWYpiP8
The girls had their routine doctors appointments, followed by lunchtime with the Marshall girls. That Saturday we had a blast at the Ferrario's for Jeff's 50th birthday party! And Sunday we had the Bakx and Dani over to bottle the beer that Daddy and Roman made for Dani and Tim's wedding. We even got the Bakx kids to stay and play for the night after a bike ride dinner at Baja Sanora.
Since school started on Wed. Mommy took the last two days of Summer off. We had a great day with lots of friends at the bay, then the girls got to pick the Souplantation for lunch before bowling with the Marshall girls.
Inevitably the first day of school arrived. We all walked Kaylee to class first thing. It was great to see familiar faces, she was excited and nervous at the same time. After saying goodbye to Kaylee the three of us walked on over to Marshall Middle School for our first time. Daddy joined the D.O.G.S for the first time in an amazing welcome back to school line for all the kids. Let's just say, it was easier for Cienna than Mommy and Daddy.
Both girls had a great summer and were also happy to be back in school. It is a fun transition, but there has been a little denial that they are getting older. We are getting into the groove with the new schedule with new school activities, along with soccer and gymnastics.
That weekend Mommy got to carve out at least a little time to catch up Darcie in passing at the LB airport as she was in San Diego for a gymnastics convention and spending time with family in Catalina. A three day weekend followed due to Labor Day. Michele and Linda threw a great party down the street on Sunday and Monday we spent the time together as a family with a long bike ride on the beach with lunch in the middle at Yard House. Kaylee was cruising her new bike and teaching herself to ride with no hands. We even made a stop at Mommy and Daddy's first apartment they shared together and the girls did a handstand photo shoot. Unfortunately Daddy ruptured his hamstring the next week, but is working through it like a champ.
Following the school week we had the start of soccer games on Saturday then got to head straight to Carlsbad for Dani and Tim's wedding. Auntie Kimmie also had a wedding to go to, so we finally found a good time to get our annual mani/pedi that we give for each others birthday. Kaylee was lucky enough to get to join us. Both girls had wonderful games. Kaylee scored a hat trick in the first quarter and Cienna's team tied it up 1-1 in the last minutes of the game. After a decent road trip to Carlsbad we all showered and got ready in a wonderful hotel and met up with friends to celebrate Dani and Tim. After the ceremony there was a fun dinner and dancing reception nearby. We all stayed up too late but had a great time. The girls got up the next morning and had fun at the beach before enjoying a great breakfast and exploring the area. We met back up with the happy couple for lunch before heading home to get ready for the next/first full week of school.
The week was spent getting into the routine of the weeks to come. We are all excited for new adventures and activities. Our last weekend we had a couple more fantastic soccer games, four more goals by Kaylee and a fantastic save as center back by Cienna. Mommy also finally got to play her first Fall soccer game. We ended the weekend with the gymnastics team banquet. There was a ton of great food, all of us got to dress up a little fancy, and there was even a ball room dancing lesson. Cienna earned a medal hanger for the most improved and they both got fun awards.
All of us joined Nicki for her birthday celebration on a Duffy Boat Tour around the bay. Daddy got to help co-captain and Mommy joined the girls in some fun games. It was the first time for all of us.
Since her first consultation, Kaylee got spacers, and molds, etc. all leading up to her expander. She continues to be excited through all of it.
It's certainly a busy time, but we enjoy all of it together!
https://photos.app.goo.gl/jekur4vvxkjWYpiP8
Wednesday, August 21, 2019
Cienna - 11 Years 7 Months... Kaylee - 9 Years 2 Month!
The girls had their last favorite week of the summer at acting out camp. The finale was an Aladdin theme. The weekend following started with the rehearsal dinner for Cobi and Bri's wedding. The girls were super excited to be the flower girls. Not only did we leave that evening with a couple of kittens, we also took notice of a Ford Bronco that had a for sale sign on it just down the street from the Ferrario's. We jotted down the phone number, and we were only taking Sierra and Robbi's cats to our house for the weekend to make room for wedding guests and keep them safe during the ceremony.
The wedding was amazing. It had a game theme and everyone had a wonderful time as always at the Ferrario's! The happy couple headed to Catalina for their Honeymoon and we got to take care of the little puppies!
The following week the girls had even more gymnastics with camp during the day followed by their normal gymnastics practices. They got new skills and although they were quite tired, they were very excited to talk about how much fun they had!
As if we didn't have enough going on, soccer then started. Mommy is coaching both teams again since we only have so much time in our schedule that we needed to pick practice times and locations. She is lucky to have one of Cienna's friends, Madelynn's dad volunteer to assistant coach, and Daddy is the official assistant coach for Kaylee's team this year. We got/picked our teams and started practice. It seems like a lot to do, but both girls are very excited and are excelling like crazy each practice! It's going to be a fun season. Both Daddy and Chris got to go to coaches training together.
Then there was a phone call and test drive for the 1983 Ford Bronco, which we are now the proud owners. The joys of a 36 year old title transfer and a membership to Triple A to avoid the DMV, we are now all excited to have a fun car to work/learn on together!!!
We had the annual beach fun day with the gymnastics team. It's so much fun to watch the girls get to have fun and play outside of the gym environment! That weekend we had an outdoor movie showing at Wardlow park, took the top of the Bronco and cruised the neighborhood, all actually went to Super Cuts for a hair trim, and had friends over to make a fort.
Y Camp the following week for the girls and then Kaylee was excited for her dentist appointment in anticipation to being referred to see the orthodontist. That is actually not sarcasm, she does enjoy going to the dentist, and we do have her first ortho appointment scheduled for this week.
Then we headed North after work on Thursday for a long drive to see family and friends and celebrate Poppa's newly built home. Aunt Bridget flew in for the occasion. We rolled in and got to catch up with her and Grammy that evening before getting some rest for a big weekend ahead.
Mommy made some plans to meet up with some good friends and their kids from her gymnastics days at the gym on Friday morning. The girls are spoiled there and get to do whatever they want. It will always feel like home when going to the gymnastic center, and was made even more so seeing familiar faces from when Mommy was a gymnast.
Afterward we headed to Poppa's to play in the pool.... oh, and yes meet up with the Marty's to set up for a party the next day! It was like having a party before the party as we all set up together! Before heading to bed we had fun making and playing wicked miniature golf course in Grammy and Grandpa's yard.
There was amazing support at the party, we saw friends that have kids going to high school that we had yet to meet, and friends of Daddy's family that drove from far away to celebrate Poppa moving back to the property! All of whom got to enjoy listening to Grammy's band (Still Kick'n) doing amazing despite the heat. The Marty's, Kyle's, and Rydman's, closed the party and then us and Poppa actually were the first to stay in his new home for the night!
Decent enough drive home on Sunday. Then we got ready for the next week which included a Gymnastics video shoot to promote next Summer's Nationals in Long Beach, First soccer practice for both girls, and finalizing our Bronco title transfer. Not a shabby week which ended with a fun dinner BBQ at the Marshall's after Open Gym and a swim time at Addison's.
That Sunday, Daddy and Roman started their batch of beer for Dani and Tim's wedding early next month. It's a good one! The week followed with crazy sock day at gymnastics, and some Color Me Mine ceramics. Neither of the girls had to get a shot at their doctors appointments, although they..Kaylee wasn't too worried about it.
Kaylee then got her much anticipated bike that she got using Birthday money from Poppa. We all had fun putting it together and taking a short bike ride after even though it was past bedtime. Daddy had a blast with the Bakx boys on a bike ride through Huntington Beach to complete another great month!
https://photos.app.goo.gl/4z2JoTDmoGtPHr3b9
The wedding was amazing. It had a game theme and everyone had a wonderful time as always at the Ferrario's! The happy couple headed to Catalina for their Honeymoon and we got to take care of the little puppies!
The following week the girls had even more gymnastics with camp during the day followed by their normal gymnastics practices. They got new skills and although they were quite tired, they were very excited to talk about how much fun they had!
As if we didn't have enough going on, soccer then started. Mommy is coaching both teams again since we only have so much time in our schedule that we needed to pick practice times and locations. She is lucky to have one of Cienna's friends, Madelynn's dad volunteer to assistant coach, and Daddy is the official assistant coach for Kaylee's team this year. We got/picked our teams and started practice. It seems like a lot to do, but both girls are very excited and are excelling like crazy each practice! It's going to be a fun season. Both Daddy and Chris got to go to coaches training together.
Then there was a phone call and test drive for the 1983 Ford Bronco, which we are now the proud owners. The joys of a 36 year old title transfer and a membership to Triple A to avoid the DMV, we are now all excited to have a fun car to work/learn on together!!!
We had the annual beach fun day with the gymnastics team. It's so much fun to watch the girls get to have fun and play outside of the gym environment! That weekend we had an outdoor movie showing at Wardlow park, took the top of the Bronco and cruised the neighborhood, all actually went to Super Cuts for a hair trim, and had friends over to make a fort.
Y Camp the following week for the girls and then Kaylee was excited for her dentist appointment in anticipation to being referred to see the orthodontist. That is actually not sarcasm, she does enjoy going to the dentist, and we do have her first ortho appointment scheduled for this week.
Then we headed North after work on Thursday for a long drive to see family and friends and celebrate Poppa's newly built home. Aunt Bridget flew in for the occasion. We rolled in and got to catch up with her and Grammy that evening before getting some rest for a big weekend ahead.
Mommy made some plans to meet up with some good friends and their kids from her gymnastics days at the gym on Friday morning. The girls are spoiled there and get to do whatever they want. It will always feel like home when going to the gymnastic center, and was made even more so seeing familiar faces from when Mommy was a gymnast.
Afterward we headed to Poppa's to play in the pool.... oh, and yes meet up with the Marty's to set up for a party the next day! It was like having a party before the party as we all set up together! Before heading to bed we had fun making and playing wicked miniature golf course in Grammy and Grandpa's yard.
There was amazing support at the party, we saw friends that have kids going to high school that we had yet to meet, and friends of Daddy's family that drove from far away to celebrate Poppa moving back to the property! All of whom got to enjoy listening to Grammy's band (Still Kick'n) doing amazing despite the heat. The Marty's, Kyle's, and Rydman's, closed the party and then us and Poppa actually were the first to stay in his new home for the night!
Decent enough drive home on Sunday. Then we got ready for the next week which included a Gymnastics video shoot to promote next Summer's Nationals in Long Beach, First soccer practice for both girls, and finalizing our Bronco title transfer. Not a shabby week which ended with a fun dinner BBQ at the Marshall's after Open Gym and a swim time at Addison's.
That Sunday, Daddy and Roman started their batch of beer for Dani and Tim's wedding early next month. It's a good one! The week followed with crazy sock day at gymnastics, and some Color Me Mine ceramics. Neither of the girls had to get a shot at their doctors appointments, although they..Kaylee wasn't too worried about it.
Kaylee then got her much anticipated bike that she got using Birthday money from Poppa. We all had fun putting it together and taking a short bike ride after even though it was past bedtime. Daddy had a blast with the Bakx boys on a bike ride through Huntington Beach to complete another great month!
https://photos.app.goo.gl/4z2JoTDmoGtPHr3b9
Wednesday, July 24, 2019
Cienna - 11 Years 6 Months... Kaylee - 9 Years 1 Month!
The girls started their summer with their very favorite summer camp. Even with lots of anticipation Acting Out camp didn't disappoint! The following weekend we spent time bike riding and joining in some neighborhood party redneck game Shenanigans. After the girls spent a day at AJ's we were all ready to go on our big Oregon vacation.
After an easy plane flight to Portland we got ourselves a Subaru and headed to the hotel for a good night sleep. We raided the continental breakfast before starting our road trip to Bend. First stop was the Vista House, then our first small hike at Bridal Falls. We stopped for a photo op at a rundown train tunnel before learning all about trout at the Boneville Fish Hatchery. Being so close to Washington, we decided we'd better visit two other states while of vacation. It was a long (nope) journey across the Columbia River on the Bridge of Gods where we stayed a whole 5 minutes in Washington. Just past the River we stopped for a bite and a beer at Full Sail Brewery. Next stop was a scenic view at Trillium Lake where we would have had a great view of Mt. Hood if it wasn't pouring at that time. We had fun locating it anyway. Then our final leg of the trip before arriving at the Payne's home who had a delicious Tri-Tip dinner ready for us. We got a tour of their beautiful home and spent the evening catching up.
Our first day in Bend, Matt showed us around the town. We walked through parks, hit up a coffee shop, bookstore, toy store, Bend Brewery, we stopped by Deschutes to visit Stacey at work before going to a Hobby Lobby and treating the kids to some crafts to have fun with before going to dinner at the Deschutes restaurant and work party. Stacey took the next day off of work and the 8 of us prepared for an over 8 mile, magnificently beautiful hike at Tumalo Falls. A plethora of waterfalls in all shapes and sizes, beautiful scenery, foliage, trees, terrain, amazing stories by Jasper, and even snow close to our final destination for lunch at Happy Valley. We'll forget about the mosquito's near the valley. The hike back was just as wonderful. After the big day the Nachos for dinner was a perfect plan while watching the USWNT play hard in the semi-finals.
We started off strong once again the next morning with Panperdu (prepared the night before) for breakfast. The Payne's started the trek back to Portland with us. We went to the Dee Wright Observatory first. It was pretty crazy to see the lava fields on the drive and from the Observatory itself. Then we headed toward an our last incredible waterfall hike that is mostly closed down during any other month of the year. All the kids, and adults got to get their feet wet and have fun climbing around.
We then said farewell to the Payne's and headed to dinner at our destination hotel by the Portland airport since we had to wake at 3:30am for our 6:00am flight. We took the food to the room and enjoyed our last evening together in Oregon. Not much sleep but we were all in good spirits on the flight home and enjoyed getting back home.
The girls got to enjoy a couple of more days at AJ's before the 4th of July celebrations began. We closed down our block. But so many others also did in the neighborhood. So we visited them all on a collaborative bike ride before coming back to enjoy our block including our neighbors and other friends stopping by to play with a jumpy, slip n' slide, the Douglas's pool, water balloon fights, great food, and fireworks to end the evening.
That Saturday was another big bash celebrating Dani and Tim's Engagement at the Bakx. We made a big night out of it with fun, music, and pool time. We even got to have a sleepover so we were all together to watch the USWNT Finals against the Netherlands early the next morning. USA...USA!!!
Following the game, the girls enjoyed some fun celebrating Jessica and Kate's 11th birthday play date. Perfect company, food, and fun for the day! The girls had their first week at YMCA camp which included lots of field trips and meeting new friends. Even though they weren't necessarily looking forward to it, they did enjoy themselves. The first Wednesday Mommy got to spend with the girls we got all the work around the house done together so we could then enjoy some roller skating. Then after Thursday camp we enjoyed slurpies for 7-11 day!
It was again time for more summer fun at Lake Casitas. Our first camping trip of the summer. We were happy to be joined by Cory, Autumn, Carver, and Miles for their first camping trip ever with their cool tent trailer. This spot has a water park that includes water slides and a lazy river. We played plenty of KanJam and Corn Hole, had Smores, went for our ritual group night bike ride, played LCR and Kaylee went home with the jackpot!
The girls headed back for their second week of Acting Out camp and continued summer fun days at gymnastics with Twin day and Movie night where they all stayed after practice to watch the Simone Biles movie projected on the gym wall.
Been a great first half of summer, but can't believe it has flown by with all the fun we've had!
https://photos.app.goo.gl/jJJKB1tsmwJRiwHB6
After an easy plane flight to Portland we got ourselves a Subaru and headed to the hotel for a good night sleep. We raided the continental breakfast before starting our road trip to Bend. First stop was the Vista House, then our first small hike at Bridal Falls. We stopped for a photo op at a rundown train tunnel before learning all about trout at the Boneville Fish Hatchery. Being so close to Washington, we decided we'd better visit two other states while of vacation. It was a long (nope) journey across the Columbia River on the Bridge of Gods where we stayed a whole 5 minutes in Washington. Just past the River we stopped for a bite and a beer at Full Sail Brewery. Next stop was a scenic view at Trillium Lake where we would have had a great view of Mt. Hood if it wasn't pouring at that time. We had fun locating it anyway. Then our final leg of the trip before arriving at the Payne's home who had a delicious Tri-Tip dinner ready for us. We got a tour of their beautiful home and spent the evening catching up.
Our first day in Bend, Matt showed us around the town. We walked through parks, hit up a coffee shop, bookstore, toy store, Bend Brewery, we stopped by Deschutes to visit Stacey at work before going to a Hobby Lobby and treating the kids to some crafts to have fun with before going to dinner at the Deschutes restaurant and work party. Stacey took the next day off of work and the 8 of us prepared for an over 8 mile, magnificently beautiful hike at Tumalo Falls. A plethora of waterfalls in all shapes and sizes, beautiful scenery, foliage, trees, terrain, amazing stories by Jasper, and even snow close to our final destination for lunch at Happy Valley. We'll forget about the mosquito's near the valley. The hike back was just as wonderful. After the big day the Nachos for dinner was a perfect plan while watching the USWNT play hard in the semi-finals.
We started off strong once again the next morning with Panperdu (prepared the night before) for breakfast. The Payne's started the trek back to Portland with us. We went to the Dee Wright Observatory first. It was pretty crazy to see the lava fields on the drive and from the Observatory itself. Then we headed toward an our last incredible waterfall hike that is mostly closed down during any other month of the year. All the kids, and adults got to get their feet wet and have fun climbing around.
We then said farewell to the Payne's and headed to dinner at our destination hotel by the Portland airport since we had to wake at 3:30am for our 6:00am flight. We took the food to the room and enjoyed our last evening together in Oregon. Not much sleep but we were all in good spirits on the flight home and enjoyed getting back home.
The girls got to enjoy a couple of more days at AJ's before the 4th of July celebrations began. We closed down our block. But so many others also did in the neighborhood. So we visited them all on a collaborative bike ride before coming back to enjoy our block including our neighbors and other friends stopping by to play with a jumpy, slip n' slide, the Douglas's pool, water balloon fights, great food, and fireworks to end the evening.
That Saturday was another big bash celebrating Dani and Tim's Engagement at the Bakx. We made a big night out of it with fun, music, and pool time. We even got to have a sleepover so we were all together to watch the USWNT Finals against the Netherlands early the next morning. USA...USA!!!
Following the game, the girls enjoyed some fun celebrating Jessica and Kate's 11th birthday play date. Perfect company, food, and fun for the day! The girls had their first week at YMCA camp which included lots of field trips and meeting new friends. Even though they weren't necessarily looking forward to it, they did enjoy themselves. The first Wednesday Mommy got to spend with the girls we got all the work around the house done together so we could then enjoy some roller skating. Then after Thursday camp we enjoyed slurpies for 7-11 day!
It was again time for more summer fun at Lake Casitas. Our first camping trip of the summer. We were happy to be joined by Cory, Autumn, Carver, and Miles for their first camping trip ever with their cool tent trailer. This spot has a water park that includes water slides and a lazy river. We played plenty of KanJam and Corn Hole, had Smores, went for our ritual group night bike ride, played LCR and Kaylee went home with the jackpot!
The girls headed back for their second week of Acting Out camp and continued summer fun days at gymnastics with Twin day and Movie night where they all stayed after practice to watch the Simone Biles movie projected on the gym wall.
Been a great first half of summer, but can't believe it has flown by with all the fun we've had!
https://photos.app.goo.gl/jJJKB1tsmwJRiwHB6
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