The Greffet Family

things papa learned about Jack

2012-01-29T12:03:00.019-06:00

Herb sent me a very sweet note about the things he and Nani learned about Jack from their adventure at the City Museum...I agree:

He’s got drive-----[redacted to protect xxxx from future embarassment :)]--- I like drive-------you can learn most anything------except drive.
He’s a leader------when he and Mom got lost in the labyrinth Jack said, “It will be OK Nani, just follow me.”
He’s compassionate-----see the note above.
He’s adventuresome-----he was always searching for “new ways” to crawl around.
He’s determined-----he wanted to climb a wall and he worked until he did it-------------I have a video to prove it.
He knows how to have fun
He’s athletic-------he was SO GOOD at climbing.
He’s artistic-------he painted and made interesting things from clay.

I can't say that any of these qualities and traits are something we didn't know...but it's nice to hear great things about him from people other than us: his parents (even though his grandparents might be just as biased as we are!).

Either way, I hope Jack always keeps these traits about him...esp 1-3...I think those will one day help Jack become a really good man...(the others would just be little bonuses)

Jack is good.

2012-01-27T16:02:00.000-06:00

Yesterday Nani and Papa played hooky, sprang Jack from daycare, and took him to the City Museum…something we probably should have done a long time ago.

He/they had THE.BEST.TIME…so much so, that someone in the group sharted. Not saying who in an effort to protect someone’s feelings. You’re welcome, xxxx.

They ran themselves ragged for 4+ hours, taking turns running around with Jack and having “resting” breaks. Jack didn’t need any resting breaks: those are for grown-ups!

They came home smelling of sweat, with a bruise here and there, and loads of craft projects, and videos of all the exciting adventures they had.

Jack is lucky to have those special days with Nani and Papa. How fun to be rescued from preschool to play all day with his two favorite people?! Who wouldn’t love that opportunity? It makes me very proud to have such amazing parents who adore my children. Also, it makes me jealous that fun stuff like that never happens to me. Can someone please rescue me from the everyday work doldrums?!

_______

Jim and I had Jack’s parent/teacher conference yesterday. And, while it was no “shart-inducing” experience, it was a great one. His teacher couldn’t say enough good things about him: how he’s so happy and pleasant, such a good listener and rule follower, so sweet and eager, smart and athletic. I smiled for two reasons: because I was so damn proud, and also I was pretty sure she was confusing us with parents of another child.

People keep telling us that “We’re doing such a good job” and “How wonderful Jack and Lila are” and I think I’ve unknowingly fooled everyone into thinking we have our shit together. We don’t, and Jack disobeys us and stomps and throws massive fits and wakes his sister up. He’s testing us and some days I think he’s winning the battle…that I’m being outsmarted by a 4 year old. I go to bed thinking “Where did I go wrong?”. But then he cuddles up to me to tell me his bad dreams and somehow just by being there, I make them go away, and I realize he is so sweet underneath his rough, star wars obsessed façade.

And in the end…it will get easier. At least that’s what people tell me…even though they are the same people who tell me that we’re doing something right with Jack, so I think they might be really good liars.

This weekend I have big plans to stay in my pjs and organize/clean. And maybe even watch a movie…but more likely than not, I will spend the days cleaning, and the nights wondering why Jack thinks its funny when I tell him “No.” and why he is so skilled at tuning out my voice...I'll likely fall asleep before SNL even starts. And I will consider it all a success if no one sharts…starting now.

a few things about this little girl...

2012-01-12T15:12:00.001-06:00

Last night, when Lila decided she didn't want to sit/snuggle to relax before bed, I said, "Fine Lila: go in timeout," and she proceeded to walk over to Jack's usual t.o. spot and sit happily, like the privilege of a time out had finally been bestowed on her! She's too smart for her own good...or as CC/my mom pointed out, maybe Jack goes in timeout way to often...??

She loves her cousin Will to pieces. "Wheel!" she exclaims when she sees his picture. She wants to hug him, and squeeze him, and name him George. As you can see from the pic below, he's a little unsure about her right now...it's only a matter of time before she's dressing him and convincing him to join her in ring-around-the-rosy!

And for some reason, I'm five hundred percent obsessed with Lila's hair in the picture below: so straight and perfectly windswept (even though there was no wind, because she's in the bath and all)...I want to marry her hair to pieces!

Also, she's got most of this family wrapped around her finger. Jim cannot say no to her...literally: he let her take a bath with a piece of pizza in her hand because she didn't want to give it up and he didn't want to say no to her! I was like, "Seriously, Jim?" and he shrugged as if to say, "I'm powerless to her forces." So Lila played with the pizza turned sponge in the tub until everyone was grossed out enough to call the bath over. (And when I went to shower later, I definitely found some tomato in the tub...)

He doesn't get it from me...

2012-01-09T21:34:00.001-06:00

Jack spent the day with Nani (feverish! I'm over the sickness in our house!). As my mom was changing laundry, Jack picked up towels and began to fold them...correctly! He told her "Daddy taught me that."Later in the night, Jack, uninterested in Dora, walked to him room. It was quiet. Too quiet. When I went to check on him he proudly held his hands out displayed a cleaned-up room! "Look: I cleaned up a little bit!" It made me so proud! My son: a laundry-folding, room cleaner.

Suffice to say, he gets none of that from me...but maybe I'll get some of that from him: I think sometimes, my kids teach me more than I can ever teach them.

the best nativity scene i'll ever have.

2011-12-16T08:41:00.000-06:00

We have a nice nativity scene that was given to us as a gift on our wedding. It is lovely, and nice...and breakable, thus making me a nervous wreck about protecting it. Last year, while setting up the tree, Jack played with Jesus, Mary, Joseph, et al. as if they were superheros. It was fairly endearing.

However, this year, Jack made us the very best nativity scene...complete with a peanut for baby Jesus!! And I could not love it more. It took center stage on our mantel and I cannot stop staring at it. As I was setting it up, Jack was correcting my placement choices, to make it just right. Oh the watchful eye of an artist.

This year, he can actually act out the story of Mary, Joseph, and Jesus. His favorite part is when the "mean innkeeper" tells them "No room here!" (He says this very emphatically.)

I will display this, my favorite nativity scene, every Christmas from here on out. Just as my Dad still uses an angel I made out of a paper plate as his tree topper...every year.

Not pictured, the shepard. Also, the Elf on the Shelf loved Jack's work so much that he decided to become an actor in the scene...just for one night.

I'm SO ready for Christmas. Well, not really, I have odds and ends to wrap up, but I'm beyond excited for the kids' Christmas morning...and Jack's 4th birthday.

Last night I asked what he wanted from Mommy and Daddy for his birthday (because he's been telling us what he wants Santa to bring for Christmas, but Mom and Dad need a list too!), and he said, "I want a kitchen set so I can play with Lila." No joke. He has no idea that Santa's elves have been working hard to make them a cute little kitchen! It made my night.

He's such a good big brother. Except for when he gets a little TOO excited about chasing her or dancing with her and picking her up, and she ends up falling or smooshed. In all honesty, Jack is always more upset than Liley is when he bumps her. He'll be laying on the floor, crying and Lila looks at me like, "What's his problem?!".

My elf and Yoda

2011-12-08T15:10:00.001-06:00

It's all about the hats. And speaking of winter accessories, Jack is obsessed with gloves (random). So this morning, after asking me is he could have Yoda gloves for Christmas, I attempted to teach him how to talk like Yoda. Hilarious it was.

I've never seen Star Wars, but based on Jack's newfound obsesh of all things SW, I might have to check it out...someday. For now, I'll stick to Elf, and Christmas Vacation, and Love Actually, and Home Alone, and Bad Santa, and The Santa Clause...and Elf.

I'm kinda like an elf...

2011-12-03T13:37:00.002-06:00

After seeing all the ~~dressers~~ I meant nightstands (see here and here on Pinterest) turned play kitchens on pinterest, I knew Lila (and Jack) needed on from Santa. I've been gathering bits and pieces and it's slowly coming together!

It still need to be screwed together and prettied up, but so far, so good...
~~I also need to find a good 'J' for the faucet...on the hunt :)~~ Update: I found a usable "J"...I was picky because it needed to be just the right width...(I have a problem).
I love this stuff!

Gobble, gobble

2011-11-23T16:24:00.002-06:00

artwork by Jack and mommy...

Food balls

2011-11-23T15:57:00.001-06:00

For the big food day, I made Oreo balls, sausage balls, and a cheese ball...this ball-themed food venture was totally unintentional...

Also making seven layer salads (one vegetarian for Care) and rye bread pizzas...I'm ready to eat all day long!

just a few instagrams...

2011-11-22T08:38:00.000-06:00

Yesterday at preschool, when asked what he was thankful for, Jack said rings…you know, like the ones you wear on your fingers?.?. While cleaning the basement, I had found a Cinderella ring with lip gloss inside…he won’t put it down, even in his sleep. Thank you, Jesus, for my ring. If only I could make Christmas as thriftily exciting as a found treasure like this one! Also, he's been complacent in allowing Lila to play beauty shop while he watches Ni Hao, Kai Lan!

Speaking of Christmas, I’m making this for J&L (found via Pinterest)…I’m so excited for it to come together! I scored some “oops” paint from Home Depot (which is eerily close to the color of Lila’s room), and am collecting bits and pieces as I go along: hinges and a magnetic clasp for the “oven”, an upside down “J” for the faucet, knobs and acrylic paints…somebody stop me.

hello weekend

2011-11-18T15:39:00.000-06:00

off to enjoy a weekend of breaking dawn, family time, and downtime while i can (as the holidays loom upon me, i'm trying not to stress yet!). also, i want frozen yogurt...

and some possible Will-watching (it's like whale watching, but with Will instead of whales...i just made that up and felt the need for an explanation...except by me overly explaining it, i think i've taken any novelty out of it. damn.)...

a trip to the mountain in shuzo

2011-11-16T15:19:00.064-06:00

During our trip to Shuzo (which I know I still haven't written about the "Hairy Crab Festival"...coming), we had a team outing to what was referred to as a "mountain"...but in comparison to the Rockies, it wasn't much of a mountain in our terms. But after seeing the extreme urban, city-swelling conditions that my Chinese co-workers live in, I began to understand why this outdoor trip was such a treat for them.

We came upon an area with trees full of red ribbons. The ribbons has wishes and hopes ties to them.

I wrote Jack and Lila's names on a ribbon and tied it to the tree with my wish for health and happiness always...

So it was basically a large hilly park. It was very random in that there were various temples and seemingly historic places scattered among various (outdated) carnival-type games, shops, art, etc. And yes I did go in that water/hamster ball thingy. How often would I have that kind of opportunity...in China! So, I can say, I did it kids...I ate snails and went in that large, hot, blow-up cylinder of torture...

I did not, however, do on the un-crossable bridge of torture, which was really just in need of repairs that might not ever come. But as the sign says, "Beware of deep water"...pay no attention to the bridge of nails.

Also, I couldn't stop obsessing over every kid I saw while in China...a sure sign that I missed my own way too much. Plus that little girl with the mini skirt and boots was killing me with cuteness!

This day was quite a random adventure...only to be followed by one of the most unappetizing meals I've ever encountered in my life...luckily, I was able to survive on warm beer and peanuts, so it was basically like being down at Busch Stadium...just thousands of miles away...

A few quick notes. Random.

2011-11-15T09:13:00.001-06:00

Lila can sing the itsy bitsy spider…or at least mumble along while doing the hand motions. She also sings/mumbles Rock a Bye Baby, and ABCs, and Twinkle Twinkle Little Star. She is very familiar with “No!” and manages to project that statement with a sass that makes me proud. She throws little fits if she isn’t getting her way, to which Daddy promptly gives in to her demands. When we went to the Science Center this weekend, all she wanted to do was watch the life-sized t-rex while exclaiming, “Ino! Ino!”: her version of dino. I’m obsessed with her hair. Obsessed. Like I said, I’ve never had a “hairstyle” so the opportunity to play with Lila’s ‘do’s might be taken overboard.

On Saturday night we had a Disney dance party in the living room. It was awesome. Jack said he wants to do that every night…he’s quite the dancer, err, karate-kicker. Jack has been singing, “Jingle bells. Batman smells. Robin laid an egg…”. With his Christmas show coming up, it probably wasn’t my smartest move to teach him such a song. He’s been getting very excited about Christmas and has made many a cutout-picture list to show the jolly old man. When we were at the Science Center this weekend, all Jack wanted to do ask repeatedly, “but WHY did the t-rex kill the other dinosaur?”

These kids are awesome.

Lila's first haircut

2011-11-14T18:02:00.002-06:00

A semi-stacked, bob...
I was so excited because with curly hair, I never really get a 'hairstyle', so this is new territory...and I love it. BTW, Lila had about 3 inches taken off the back!

Also, Lila was kind of like a superstar at the haircut place with paparazzi: Nani decided to come for the event, and Papa literally just happened to be getting his haircut when we walked in...so the 5 of us (me, Jim, Jack, Nani, & Papa) were making the biggest deal out of Lila getting her locks trimmed...we have an overflow of love going on for this girl and her new 'do.

The tallest point in Shanghai...

2011-11-11T08:40:00.000-06:00

On Tuesday night of our trip, we went down to the tallest building in Shanghai: The World Financial Center. (According to this graphic, which is outdated, this is the 4th tallest building in the world, but could be lower than that now...also note this rendering: the building on the far right was under construction while we were there (note: construction was around the clock), and the two others pictured are where we occupied our evening.) For St. Louisans to compare: the arch is 630 feet The World Financial center is 1614.2 feet.

The Hyatt occupies the top floors of this building. We ate dinner on the 93^rd floor. Unbelievable. All I can say. From the wine room to the food to the bathrooms (heated seats, automatic opening lids, I could go on, but for modesty sake, I will not)! It was foggy that night, but our view was still spectacular.

After dinner, we went to the building next door, which is the second tallest building in Shanghai: the Jin Mao Tower, where we had drinks and enjoyed the entertainment of a magician at our table. (Note: our group sat down for drinks and a man in a mask was nonchalantly walking around the room. I waved and called him over, not understanding that it was an invitation to join us and perform magic for a good 45 minutes...he kept us on our toes!) This was the way to experience Shanghai...

However, I'm glad I had very different experiences to contrast this...eating (or at least observing) food I couldn't recognize, seeing how the majority of Shanghainese live...I saw both sides, which was important for me so I came out of the experience with the mostaccurate portrayal of the country I could.

(Apoligies for the mix/quality of iPhone pics...)

Hands down, the BEST carrots I've ever eaten...and I don't really care much for carrots. I don't know what they put in them, but I would have been happy eating nothing but those carrots! It became the running joke for the rest of the trip: sure Jen tried the snails, but how did they compare to those carrots! (Spoiler: carrots trumped snails!) Also, iPhone pics make food look gross! Or maybe it was the photographer...or her lighting...BUT, my steak came with a halved, roasted garlic...def trying this at home next time we grill...which will prob be in like 6 months with the Winter fast approaching.

i love kindle...and now even more.

2011-11-10T16:25:00.000-06:00

Sidenote: juuuust found out that Kindle has opened a new lending library to borrow books for free with a Prime membership (my membership was free with Amazon Mom)! Am I the biggest nerd that this made me so excited?!? Too bad I have a million DVR'd shows to catch up on that are just begging me to watch...

Home from the big* city (*understatement of the century)

2011-11-10T11:09:00.000-06:00

Well, I don’t even know where to begin to sum up my experience in Shanghai…it was breathtakingly overwhelming: the food, the people, the buildings, the city, the traffic, the pace, the scenery, the views…this is where I will fail because nothing I type or say, no picture I show, will ever fully depict it's enormity.

From the airport to the PuDong river, the high rise apartments never ended…there must have been thousands. I never saw a single-family home. The traffic was faced-paced, brutal: move or be moved. Unlike here, cars do not yield to pedestrians…it’s the other way around. And the mopeds and electric bikes: predominant mode of transportation. More surprising, even, was the amount of goods, material, and people that could fit on a small moped. (I even saw a large golden retriever riding along on one!) I saw a woman with three kids (baby in front, oldest in back, and middle behind her) cruising along. I saw men with 8 foot metal rods arranged front to back.
The sheer volume of 30 million people moving along unhindered from place to place was harmoniously precise. Scratch that: traffic in and out of the city was a disaster area. Sitting and merging at will, the honking, the forceful nature of drivers…at one point, our cab driver moved into oncoming traffic (a bus to be exact!), just to get in front of 1 car…in a traffic jam! Honking of horns does not mean the same thing as it does here. Here it’s more of a sign of aggression: “I’m angry”. There, it’s more of a notice: “I’m here, and will not stop…”.
The next few posts will seem unorganized and categorically all over the place, so bear with me. My brain is spinning and tired…

A letter to Jack...

2011-10-30T10:04:00.003-05:00

Jack,

I’m going away for a little while. I have to go to work in a country called China. It’s a really far way away. It will take me 14 hours to get there on an airplane. That’s like 2 whole days of preschool.

I will miss you more than anything in the whole world. It’s going to be hard for me and you to be away from each other, because were best friends and we love each other so much. But it will be okay, because just like The Kissing Hand book, no matter how far apart we are, we will always be able to feel each other’s love.

If you ever miss me or feel sad, you just put your hand up to your cheek and think, “Mommy love me.” And my kiss will jump right into your heart and you will feel my love.

I’m going to call whenever I can. Since I’m so far away, when it’s night time where you are, it will be daytime where I am (think about that!). So it might be hard to get in touch, but I always will.

Every night, tell Daddy you want to send me an email. You tell him all about your day: the best things that happened, the funniest, the silliest, what you ate, who you played with…and Daddy will write it down and send it in a letter to me so I can read it. And make sure you send me songs and pictures of yourself too.

I will send letters back to you so you can read them and hear all about my day, so it will be like we are talking to each other!

Jack, I need you to be a big boy and do me a favor while I’m gone. I need you to be on your best behavior for Daddy. Listen to him and be the good boy I know you are. Also, help Daddy take care of Liley. You’re such a good big brother and she loves you so much: you’re the best at making her laugh and smile, so I need you to do that a lot while I’m away. (It would make me the happiest if you would do that for her forever because you two are best friends and that’s what best friends do!)

At night time, please do me a favor and sleep in my spot. My pillow will need someone to keep it company, and so will Daddy. So it’s your job to keep my spot cozy for me. If you miss me, hug my pillow and I will feel your hug from all the way across the world. I will hug my pillow extra tight so you can feel my love back at home, too.

I will be home before you know it, and things will be back to normal again. Until then, be good. I’m proud of you and I love you more than sunshine!

Love always,

Mommy

PS: I recorded our prayer so we could still say it together…make sure Daddy plays that for you at nighttime.

PPS: I also might have left a present for you and Lila each day…cause you’re kinda like my favorites!

A letter to Lila...

2011-10-30T10:00:00.001-05:00

Lila,

I know you won’t be able to understand what’s going on around here this next week, and why Mommy isn’t there to hold and hug and kiss and laugh with you. I’m sorry for that. But I have to go away for a little while to do some work.

I know you may feel sad and scared that you can’t see me every day, and believe me, it will be scary and sad for me too. But in the big picture of our lives, it’s not that long of a time. We will be back to playing with each other before we know it.

While I’m gone, eat your food real good, and try not to get too much in your hair because I don’t know if Daddy is going to give you a bath every day. Try sleeping in a little bit, because our days are always happier when we get a good night’s rest and have sweet dreams. Daddy may have you wear mis-matched clothes, and that’s fine too…as long as you’re not naked, that’s the important part!

Smile a lot while I’m gone, and let Daddy take funny pictures and videos of you to send to me. It will make me so happy to see you! I’m going to miss your pretty little face so much it will hurt!

Hug your brother a lot, because he might need some extra love from you. You’re good at giving lots of love and smiles…it’s your gift to us all.

Do me a favor while I’m gone: don’t reach any monumental milestones: like tying your shoes or getting your first haircut (DO NOT LET DADDY CUT IT…he wants to give you bangs, for some unknown reason…don’t let him!) or getting your ears pierced or finally getting the hang of the ABC song…I need to be there for all those things so you just hold off a few days so I can be there!

I’ll be thinking about you all the time. And when I call to talk to you, remember that Daddy’s phone isn’t food, so don’t try to eat it! I love you to bits and pieces, my pretty, happy baby girl.

Love always,

Mommy

In Chicago...boo the cubbies

2011-10-29T10:28:00.001-05:00

Landed in Chicago and mentally prepping for the long haul..,14.5 hours...

The kids are hiking with daddy and papa. Wish I was there.

Spiderman & the Hulk

2011-10-29T08:21:00.001-05:00

Jack let me bring spiderman and the hulk on my adventure, only because he was to big to fit in my carryon...we're all checked in and ready...

I'm leavin on a jet plane

2011-10-29T08:15:00.001-05:00

At the airport. I've said my goodbyes and kissed my people...trying to prepare myself for a long time sitting.

Trying also not to think about the missing ache I'm about to feel.

Love...all my love.

Btw, Frank Thomas is on my first flight to Chicago...I think it made dropping me off that much more exciting for Jim to meet him :)

10-21

2011-10-21T08:57:00.000-05:00

10-21…isn’t it funny how a date can become so memorized, soengrained in our vocabulary. 10-21. I’ve said it thousands of times, and itjust rolls off my tongue, like the answer to, “What’s your name?”…but it’s differentthan say, “How old are you?” because honestly, I never know off the top of myhead. I have to think about it. Sometimes, I actually have to do math! WTH?!There’s something wrong with that!

So its 10-21, and I’m officially in my late 20s. There’snothing I need or want: I have happy healthy babies and the best, loving family,and fond friends…I’m pretty much set.

I don’t have too much planned for the weekend…maybe someantiquing and a fun activity with the kids (TBD…maybe pulling out the Lion Kingon VHS with some cozy blankets on the floor and some FroYo…look at that, I justplanned my night without even trying!). My birthday doesn’t mean as much to menow that I have more important birthdays to celebrate (12-25 & 7-30).

So here’s to a happy weekend of nothing special with my favs.

Even though I said there's nothing I need/want, I def. wouldnt mind this, or this, or basically anything else from my Pinterest...I love my pinning addiction! Alas, I'm saving my pennies for Shanghai shopping...

Hairdressing by Lila

2011-10-19T11:24:00.001-05:00

Lila loves playing with hair (although hates to have hers messed with). Luckily, Jack-Jack obliges her...

And Daddy obliges as well.

I think she has us all wrapped around her finger...

Nani & her girl

2011-10-17T15:49:00.001-05:00

The pink ladies...

Seen: the rally squirrel

2011-10-16T15:37:00.001-05:00

At Cabela's...

Let's go Cards...

Seen: happy faces

2011-10-16T12:51:00.001-05:00

Nothing makes me happier than seeing them so happy...

(at Jim's company picnic)

My nephew rules

2011-10-14T09:42:00.001-05:00

Seriously, I love baby Will. I haven't seen him in 5 whole days and I'm itching to hold hims face, and kiss him, and even change his diaper...which is a welcome change since Lila decided that having her diaper/clothes changed is like torture.

See you soon Will.i.am! omg Care, can I call him that?! Prob not, but worth a shot.

Best...

2011-10-11T22:19:00.001-05:00

This is the best compliment I've received in, well, forever maybe (and it wasn't even about me):

"Hi Mr. and Mrs. Greffet,

Just wanted to tell you a little story about Jack today. We went out to the playground and all the toys were put away in the shed. There is quite a stack in there and one of the little girls wanted the watering can, which was buried under the mound. Jack quietly waded into the shed and dug out the can for her. It was just sooooo sweet. What a gentleman and how kind. You're doing a great job, Mom and Dad."

Today

2011-10-10T13:15:00.001-05:00

Daycare/preschool was closed today, so we took advantage and headed to the park...it was an impromptu trip (sooo unlike me!) so without a stroller, Li (Jack's newest nickname for Lila), enjoyed a stroll on my shoulders...

At the petting zoo portion of the park, Jack climbed on top of the fence to talk to the horses. Another little boy wanted to mimic Jack and asked his mom if he could also climb, she said, "No, we don't climb that, it's dangerous..." and I smiled in my head because I was THAT mom: the one who let's her child run wild, seemingly without regulations. It's not that Jack doesn't have the regulations, but he's safer and older and surefooted (see rock climbing pic below!), and I trust him. I know there will inevitably be situations when I say, "No, Jack. Just because that little boy does it, doesn't mean you can too...." but today, I was the rebellious carefree mom...

Jack scaled his mini-mountain without assistance, and when he got to the top, he smiled and proudly exclaimed, "I'm on pride rock!"

Our Saturday night...

2011-10-10T12:37:00.001-05:00

Our Saturday night was spent sitting around a fire playing "Scene It: Movies"...we're party animals, right?! We ended up with a personal high score (605 million)...my how our lives have changed...for the better, I might add. When our waker up callers come at 6:30, on a good day, low key nights are the best...

PS: I was satisfied with receiving the Twilight "unlockable", which means nothing, but I still loved seeing that sparkly vampire cartoon! Nerd!

Pig tails...

2011-10-08T14:57:00.001-05:00

My, oh my...this is the sign of a big girl in my book: pig tail success.

Shanghai prep.

2011-10-08T14:28:00.001-05:00

I will be traveling to Shanghai at the end of the month for my new job. And while I'm stressing about leaving Jim and the kids for a whole week (the longest time I've ever been away from my fav people!), I'm furiously preparing. Fodor's Travel tips is a great resource, and gets me crazy excited about the shopping opportunities ( Shanghai the center of the fashion universe!) but I have to slow myself down and remember that I will be there for business: to learn and meet and grow.

So as I search the net and download 500 aps to assist with my ventures, I try not to feel overwhelmed and nervous...but I'm failing. As I just noted in a post to my Jack, fear is what moves us forward, helps us to grow and overcome...so here goes nothing...您好 (hello).

Ps: talk about nerves...according to Fodor's, "...the Shanghainese dress to impress." This is probably an irrational thought to make me nervous, but still...

Another costume option for Ms. Greffet

2011-10-07T08:41:00.001-05:00

Timeout: just remembered that I got this peacock costume on clearance last year...great, just what I need: another outfit option for Lila on Halloween. I'm terrible with decisions anyway...

At least Jack is still set on his Thor costume...I guess it's typical for a girl to have too many outfit choices, while a boy is content with the first thing he sees.

Mister cowboy

2011-10-07T08:35:00.001-05:00

Jack, you rode a horse an the Greentree festival this year. It was quite the difference from your first horsey experience in KC, when you were terrified of the horse, and resigned to stay back and watch the rodeo with grandma.

It's like one day you got all brave and independent on me and I don't remember when that happened. Where was I when that happened? I hope I helped to make you that way.

You should always remember that you may be scared of something the first time you experience it, but it shouldn't stop you from trying it again. Most of the things we think are scary, aren't so scary once we take a closer look.

Ride the horses and take the chances and be brave and bold. You will always make me proud no matter what you do. Ride 'em cowboy...yeehaw.

Bicycle

2011-10-07T08:28:00.001-05:00

Jack loves riding his bike, and the weather has been perfect, PERFECT for evening walks. This is what it's all about...

A new venture...

2011-10-06T16:32:00.001-05:00

An appropriate quote, seeing as I will be starting a new job next week...

“Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven’t found it yet, keep looking. Don’t settle. As with all matters of the heart, you’ll know when you find it. And, like any great relationship, it just gets better and better as the years roll on.”

- Steve Jobs | 1955 - 2011

Here's to new adventures...

(blogged from my iPad...thanks, Steve.)

2011-10-05T13:46:00.001-05:00

The Luckiest ( by Ben Folds) has been in my head lately. Tonight, after reading books with Jack, he sat on my lap and I rocked him while I sang that song to him. Each time I finished, he'd ask me to sing it again, and again...

I sang, "What if I'd been born 50 years before you in a house, on a street, where you lived..." Then he stopped me and asked me, "Mommy, where am I going to live when I grow up?" I hesitated because this conversation was turning eerily similar to one that I so vividly remember having with my mom when I was young.

I said, "you can live anywhere you want, buddy..." and he said, "I want to live with you and daddy..."

I told him he could live with me forever if he wanted to. And then he said, "mommy, I want to be a baby again. I want to be 3 and a half, and then be a baby, and then be 3 and a half again..."

I told him he would miss out on too much fun stuff and that he had to grow up...my little Peter Pan. I told him how he could grow up and do all sorts of fun things like ride on roller coasters (NO idea why this came to my mind because roller coasters terrify me!), and he asked if I would ride them with him...Ummm

Then we talked about how he would grow up and get a car and drive me around...he said he wanted to get a race car! Oh Lordy...

I love our sweet little conversations...when he's not rough and tumble and wrestling and battling with super heroes...because as much as I love his boyish-ness, I love that he's my sweet little guy too...

"...and I know, that I am. I am. I am, the luckiest."

A page from my favorite book...

2011-10-05T13:44:00.001-05:00

Lila's Halloween costume(s)

2011-10-04T18:08:00.001-05:00

Lila's either going to be a chicken (or maybe it's a rooster?) or a fairy princess...or maybe a chicken-princess...

Tramp!

2011-10-04T18:03:00.001-05:00

Our neighbors are kind enough to let the kids bounce on their trampoline...they are in butt-bomb heaven...

Welcome baby Ricks

2011-09-29T11:20:00.001-05:00

Aunt CC had baby ricks at 9:46 this morning...he weighs 4 lbs 14 oz and has his daddy's lips. He's perfect and adorable! I love my nephew (to be named later)...

Jack as Thor!

2011-09-16T19:35:00.001-05:00

Today Jack picked out his Halloween costume...after trolling the aisles of super heroes, he settled on Thor...

I typically don't care for the cheesy, store-bought costumes, but this was his first year that he really cared about what he dressed as...so as long as this little man is happy, and he doesn't injure anyone with his "hammer of justice," I'm happy. Plus he looks so dang cute...or strong...or mighty...that's the word I was going for.

(ps: it's a little tight in the crotch region...so he might need to break it in every day until halloween to stretch it out!)

Lila loves Missoni for Target

2011-09-16T15:17:00.001-05:00

I'm not one into trends much, but after all the Missoni for Target hoopla, I had to check it out. And low and behold, there was plenty of Missoni swag left at my local Target...soooo I followed the trend and hopped on the bandwagon. I picked up a tote, baby blanket, wine cases, and a media case. Why?!?

But as I'm second guessing my purchases, I'm also wishing I had a laptop because the laptop case was killer...oh marketing...

We <3 the cardinals...and Jim Edmonds.

2011-09-12T08:24:00.001-05:00

Me and Mommer in a Jim Edmonds sandwich...love him...

Boys in the woods...

2011-09-11T12:15:00.001-05:00

For Papa's birthday, the boys went fishing. Despite the fact that this fish weren't biting, they all had fun. Jack tossed a hotdog in the pond for the fish to enjoy later, and they went on a hike where they came across a group of deer which Jack identified as white tail deer. (Thanks Diego!).

Ponytail...

2011-09-11T12:07:00.001-05:00

Ponytails and hair bows only last in Lila's hair for a few minutes before she pulls them out...but they're cute while they last!

Side note: when I put Lila's hair in a mini pony like this, I can't help but think she looks like Wesley from the Princess Bride...am right!?! "As you wish..."

Lila's first steps!!

2011-09-09T21:58:00.001-05:00

She's walking...slowly, unsteadily, but surely...Lila took her first steps when I got home from work today!!! Ahhh...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z2gJ9fpF6Wc&feature=youtube_gdata_player

(I need to embed the video, but here's a quick link...)

Jack's First Day of Preschool

2011-09-08T07:58:00.004-05:00

Today was my Jack's first day of preschool! Big guy...

It's a program through his daycare, so he'll break out to a separate room on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and his friends will be with him, so it won't be too much of a transition from his norm, except for the special visit days and field trips.

My Jack...growing up in the blink of an eye, and yet still my baby when he needs me. Hopefully, he'll always need me.

Even though the change will be relatively minor, Jack told me he would be shy, but I think he'll be too excited to worry about such.

Here's the last peek before I drove away...it makes my day so much better to leave seeing that happy face...

I love Jack (and Lila's) daycare/preschool. Last night Jack and I were reading the Lion King. As I read the part where Mufasa tells Simba that the stars are the kings before them, always watching over him just as he was, Jack stopped me and said, "Just like Jesus!!" it made me pause, hug him a little tighter, and remember how proud I am to be his Mom.

Nap time...

2011-09-03T14:07:00.001-05:00

...in snow boots. Because, why not.

Rock n roll

2011-08-29T11:38:00.001-05:00

The fun thing about having a plethora of toys is finding something new to play with (I guess it only works for Lila though...Jack's seen it all before and can tell you the origin of every toy in the house: "Nani bought me that from Target," is usually how most of these go...)

But over the weekend I dragged up Jack's old rocking horse and Lila loves it!! She rocks back and forth with her happy grin...

Thanks for being a good sharer, brother!!

Getting ready for preschool

2011-08-28T14:13:00.001-05:00

We bought jack his preschool supplies this weekend, the essentials: crayons, glue, a pencil box, safety scissors... We were getting ready to spruce up his boring pencil box with superhero stickers, because if it's not superhero, it just doesn't cut it.

Jack cracked me up with his enthusiasm and desire to cut paper...he kept saying, "I'm doing a project!!" I had forgotten how fun and exciting something new can be, as I watched him cut, cut, cut...

He was so focused and ready...not for any big event or party, but to cut paper for the first time...it was new to him, and therefore, merited thrill...oh, the simple joys of the simple things...

Superhero siblings

2011-08-27T20:20:00.001-05:00

Speaking of Lila's hobbies, one of her absolute, hands down favorite things to do is anything with her brother: playing superheros, chasing one another, pulling his hair and trying to eat his food...nothing better.

My little superheros...

Lila loves to color...

2011-08-27T20:11:00.001-05:00

And I love it...she chooses clashing colors and draws lightly, but I see artistry in her future, which would be wonderful since I have zero artistic bones in my body and always wished I did. Jack will color, but it's never his first, second, or even third choice as a fun activity...so seeing Lila take an interest in something other than cars and superheros is fun...

She went through the entire day with purple and green marker on her neck, and turns out, it wasn't as "washable" as I'd hoped...but it's fading....

We'll stick to crayons for now, and she understands the phrase, " give that to mama," and listens...knock on wood...My little artist...

Me and mommer...

2011-08-15T10:59:00.001-05:00

At the cards game...

she get's it from her dada...

2011-08-08T13:31:00.004-05:00

I’m remiss in updating on Lila’s first birthday party and a mini-vacation to the lake and Jack jumping off a boat in the lake (!!!)…so I’m failing in my attempt to keep a current family journal to look back on as my memories fail me. Boo, Jen.

But for right now, I’ll talk about Lila and her Daddy. When I was pregnant with her, Jim would always ask if I thought this one would look like him, because Jack so carries so many traits from my side of the family, and he couldn't wait to have a baby that looked like him...

When Lila was first born, she was a spitting image of Jack, and we thought, “Another 'Christman'…” but more and more I’ve been seeing Greffet in her.

Jim’s mom brought us a picture of Jim at one year old, and the resemblance is strikingly scary. Here’s Jim and Lila on their first birthday's…the same nose, chubby cheeks, happy smile (even teeth), little chin, wispy blond hair, even ears...love, love, love this!

Like father, like daughter...

this is the life...

2011-07-29T14:04:00.003-05:00

Jack is playing hookey with Nani and swimming naked on a hot, summer day...makes me happy and...

(Does it count as skinny-dipping if he's wearing water wings?!?)

Party prep...

2011-07-27T21:30:00.001-05:00

Banner & cupcake garland: check.

Cake bunting: check.

Piñata, streamers, menu: check.

Ready for the party...just not ready for my baby girl to turn 1 year old already...

A first and hopefully last...

2011-07-18T15:49:00.001-05:00

Baby girl will have surgery on Friday morning...it was a long day at Children's Hospital, but as usual, she made us proud with her smiles to everyone and her happy demeanor...

She has a foreign body stuck in the palm of her hand from a cut that happened almost 6 weeks ago. The procedure to remove it will be fairly minor, and hopefully less than an hour, but that doesn't mean I won't be a nervous wreck until it's over...

My poor baby girl...having her first surgery before her first birthday...my head hurts, my tummy hurts...and I just want her hand to be healed up and better...

Test-cake success

2011-07-17T19:44:00.001-05:00

The semi-rainbow cake was a success...and fun. I can't wait for the party...

First ponytail...

2011-07-17T14:50:00.001-05:00

A look i'll dub: Pebbles meets Lila...

are hair lumpies in?!?

Iced...

2011-07-17T10:57:00.001-05:00

...but not pretty. Might need to work on some icing techniques...

Rainbow cake: testing phase

2011-07-17T10:15:00.001-05:00

Thought I'd make a test run of Lila's rainbow birthday cake before the big day in an attempt to avoid a fail-cake. So far so good...cakes baked, leveled, and cooling in preparation for the icing...here goes nothing.

Note: the colors are pink, turquoise, and purple, although they don't show up well. I need to get some vibrant colors of the rainbow for the real deal!

first field trip...

2011-07-15T11:43:00.003-05:00

In continuation of my previous post subject: time moves too fast…

Jack has his first “field trip” today, for which they are walking to a nearby ice cream shop. I’m so excited for him! What a fun adventure. Field trip days are the best.

He also received his paperwork for preschool, which will start soon. When did this little boy get old enough for preschool?!

I remember when he was a baby and I thought, “I wonder what he’ll sound like. I wonder how he’ll act, and look, and think, and be…”. Now these wonders are pushed further into the future to a place where he’s a big boy and I wonder what sports he’ll play, and what he’ll enjoy, and what subjects he’ll like, and, again, what he’ll sound like, and think, and be...

Little boy, little man.

soon to be 1...

2011-07-13T07:29:00.004-05:00

It’s cliché, and I hate clichés, but I cannot believe how fast this last year has gone. In a flash, in an instant, right before my eyes, my baby girl is on the verge of 1 year old…

She’s a crawling and standing machine who (unlike her brother) loves to splash in the bath, and drink the bath water. She blows kisses and hides behind her blanket for peek-a-boo, and always claps in excitement when she appears. She falls asleep snuggling her blankie and
wakes up happier than anyone I know, as she sits in her bed in the morning, talking to herself contently until we scoop her up.

She eats almost anything, but always shares bites. She’s transitioning to whole milk and away from bottles and 3 hour schedules and baby-ness.

She’s in love with her brother, and vise versa. I’m the most proud when he is so kind and gentle with her, and insistent that he hug and kiss her and even wrestle with her (softly!). Jack loves to play with her, and they’ve made a fun game of crawling around the kitchen island and laughing upon finding the other. I hope they never tire of playing together...although that's probably a hope made in vain.

Nothing in my life is more endearing than watching my kids play together and love one another.

Time has gotten away from me this past year, and I can’t wink and ask it nicely to rewind, or start over, or slow down. It won’t listen to me, and that's okay. Seeing as I have no control it's a "let go and let God..." situation.

So in lieu of mourning the rapidness of time, I will try to celebrate it all: the past year, the baby girl turning into a little lady, the little boy turning into a protective brother...the rainbow of happy moments we've had, and to come.

PS: Lila's first birthday is a rainbow celebration...I don't know what I ever did before Pinterest!

back to reality...

2011-07-06T08:54:00.002-05:00

I wore flip-flops and comfy shorts for an entire week and it was glorious. Now, it's back to work and school and schedules and real life...

Luckily, I come back with happy memories of first fish caught...

...first vacations enjoyed...

...wrestling, superheros, and lots of jail-time...

...first swims...

and pretty in pink sunsets...

ready for 'cation...

2011-06-24T07:20:00.003-05:00

We're ready...for road-tripping, pool lounging, boat riding, antique shopping, sun bathing, splish splashing, board-game playing, adventure finding, yummy eating...we're ready.

Lila (surprisingly) really enjoys wearing (Jack's old) sunglasses...(as well as his old pjs). Luckily she has her own ruffly swimsuits and I'm not making her wear Jack's hand-me-downs there...

And Jack has been wheeling around his suitcase filled with nothing more than a superhero cape...because that's all he needs. He's pretty low maintenance...

and excited!

BTW, so is she...

I'll be excited once we're on the road and done packing. Last night I got Lila all packed up and my over-packing history repeats itself: I think her bag is bigger than anyone else's! Good luck lugging that around, Lila!

My little Captain-Super-America-Man

2011-06-23T07:31:00.004-05:00

Jack loves superheros...and villains...and anything super-related. He's a Super Boy.

If you come over to our house, chances are Jack will tie you up and put you in jail because you are a "bad guy"...he's our protector! We let him watch a Spiderman cartoon and the whole thing was so dramatic and hilarious, and naturally Jack mimics the dramatic flair of the show (or maybe he gets that from me).

And four-toothed Lila is his sidekick...the Robin to his Batman! She's much less vicious...she's more like the "good cop" in this "Good Cop/Bad Cop" relationship...

BUT, she does bite...at least she bit (singular) my cheek once...it was in the midst of a kiss, so I blame a learning curve. I mean, it's kind of a hard concept to grasp because up until this point, anything she put in her mouth she had free reign to gnaw...

Our super-little family...keeping the world happy and safe for another day...

father's day 2011...

2011-06-17T14:45:00.004-05:00

Jim gets up before anyone else and has breakfast waiting for the kids by the time they get up. He doesn’t ask for much or do things for himself often…after golf, when I text him to stay out and relax with the guys, he never does. He always rushes home so he can tell Jack a story before bed. He's strong and funny and wise and smart...he puts up with my 'crazy-Mommy-demands' and antics...

He wrestles with Jack, and teaches him about superheroes and sports and life (as much as he can for a 3 ½ year old, at least)…he’s the best hider in hide-n-seek and a good finder in seek-n-find…he’s a cozy nap partner and the highest swing-pusher…he’s a good man, teaching my little guy to be the same.

He tickles Lila to make her laugh in a way that no one else can…and in fact, he doesn’t even have to tickle her: he gives her 'a look' and she’s a giggling fool. It doesn’t work with anyone else, and just like that, she’s a Daddy’s girl. A Daddy's girl who is easy-going like he is, with features like his...she twirls her hair like he does, and is just as loving as he is. He tries really hard to coordinate her outfits, and just the extra effort is enough.

Jack made Daddy the BEST Father's Day present: A Daddy Fact Sheet. Jack's so hilarious and observant...

Best Q&As:

My Daddy's name is: just Daddy

My Daddy is: 2 years old (personality wise, Jack was right on here)

My Daddy is: 'so big' feet tall

Daddy's favorite thing to do: wrestle with me

Me and my Daddy love to: go outside and water the plants (because chores are fun in our house!)

Happy Father's Day, to all the Dad's in my life (Jim, Dad, Herb, Mark).

You're the best and I'm the luckiest and Jack & Lila are the happiest...because of you...

pure happiness

2011-06-14T15:18:00.005-05:00

Jack riding the carousel=pure happiness. There's no other way to describe it. He can't wipe a smile off his face as he spins around and around...and it's contageous. He giggles and laughs and "woohoo's" and "yeehaw's" loudly over and over again.

As I watch him love every minute, I notice myself standing with a grin full of pride and excitement that I can't, nor do I want to, wipe off. He's so in the moment, and happy, and carefree. How do I be more like that?

Jack was most excited about riding the horse with a "YAX" on him...he reeeaaally loved that damn yax...really any kind of weapon will do...smile & shrug.
Note: for those who don't understand Jack-talk, yax=ax.

good brother...

2011-06-08T10:36:00.003-05:00

Last night Jack picked up Lila to move her. She cried because he squeezed her too hard. He cried because he hurt her, "I jus' want to carry Liley!”

This reminded Jim of a 2 week old story he never got around to telling me. While my mom, sister, and I were treasure hunting, Lila was sleeping in her crib, Jim and Jack were watching a movie. Jim dozed off, and Lila woke up. So Jack, being the big brother, went in and picked Lila out of her crib (by standing on a stool) and carried her in the hallway.

Jim said he woke up to Lila and Jack just sitting in the hallway together. WTH!?!? Oh the things that could have happened? The could haves…the what ifs…

I told Jack to never pick her out of her crib by himself, and it was nice of him to try to help, but he's not big enough to carry Lila just yet.

This little guy's so sweet…always wanting to hold her, crying when he’s hurt her, taking care of her…he’s what good brothers are made of.

(PS: DON’T PICK YOUR BABY SISTER OUT OF HER CRIB BY YOURSELF, JACKMAN! You're gonna give me a heart attack!)

she's having my baby...

2011-06-02T13:29:00.006-05:00

...nephew! It's a BOY! My sister and BIL just had their 20-week u/s and found out they will be having a little boy in October! *beaming*

I'm beyond excited and will be the bestest Aunt Jen in the whole wide world. And the bestest shower-thrower ever (btw, Pinterest is my weapon of choice!).

When Carey and Jason gave us the big news that they were pregnant, I about tackled my sister with excitement...only to quickly freeze and apologize incessantly for practically attacking a pregnant lady! Who does that?!

Jack will be excited to have a boy to teach boy-stuff to...and Lila will be excited to have someone in the family smaller than her...we will all be blessed to have baby "Insert Boy Name" Ricks to join our happy family.

boo-boo

2011-05-31T13:56:00.004-05:00

this weekend...

2011-05-27T13:44:00.015-05:00

I have big plans this weekend…including (but not limited to):

• straightening up the house
• drinking some wine from a box
• collecting cicada shells for Jack’s new collection (is this gross?)
• watching Lila crawl around (because she finally started, yippee-yahoo…oh crap I have to start cleaning my floors!)
• painting my nails a fun color (yellow, maybe)
• cutting the grass (yes, this is fun to me)
• drinking beer from a can
• hanging with my favs

…extra long weekend, I love you!

machines!

2011-05-24T07:57:00.004-05:00

This weekend we went to an event called "Meet the Machines" sponsored by a local construction company. I had no idea what to expect, but suffice to say it was overwhelming and brilliant and I've never seen so many little boys so happy in one place!

Next year we'll get there earlier (even though we showed up at 10: when it opened...apparently you need to get there at like 9-9:30 if you even want a chance to operate a scooper truck or go up in the high lift! Fail.)

Lucky for us, Jack was happy enough to meet Bob the Builder, run around with his hard hat on, explore every vehicle imaginable, and get sandy & sweat digging for treasure!

Also, the monster truck had a "For Sale" sign on it, and Jim is quite interested...have fun living in it, honey!

Next year we'll be better prepared for the chaos and excitement...also, I hope Lila's done teething by then because she was a little too preoccupied with her sore gums to enjoy the machines!

(cell phone pics=boo.)

compliment...

2011-05-20T08:41:00.003-05:00

"...your family is unbelievably dapper. Good looking gang!" (from Seth over at The Midweststyle...)

Made my day...even though he thinks St. Louis is a Chicago wannabe...pshh!

technicolor children...

2011-05-19T08:59:00.001-05:00

(with Photoshop Express on my iPad)

drawings

2011-05-18T08:27:00.003-05:00

I introduced Jack to the iPad last night...complete with cautionary warnings (i.e., "Don't ever touch this without asking Mommy or Daddy"/"Be VERY careful and touch it gently"/etc.). He calls it a lily pad.

We went through alphabet tracing aps (so neat!) and shapes/colors aps and reading aps...his favorite ap so far is Glow Draw...

He drew me a picture of myself (below)…can you see me? He also started to sign his name on the bottom right, and might have lost interest...

I'm going to limit Jack to 15 minutes of iPad before story time at night, and we'll either read books on it or play educational games (I really love the letter tracing!). I don't want him to become addicted to the technology (I'm the pot calling the kettle black here...). Now that the weather is warming up (kinda), I'd much rather he spend his time playing outside and searching for worms and swinging and imagining...

luck...

2011-05-17T15:00:00.005-05:00

We have bad luck…with things. Our trees cracking, breaking, falling…our cars popping tires on the highway, and later requiring a new computer chip costing roughly a mortgage payment…pipes backing up (gross!), electricity surging, outlets busting, doors jamming, windows leaking…it’s one thing after another with the house, the cars, the things… It feels like we’re always bracing ourselves for “what’s gonna happen next”...

But then, I see my little girl light up when I walk in the door, and jump up and down in her excer-saucer until I hold her…and my best guy squeezes my face so tight when he plants a hard kiss on me…and I have no idea how I go to be so lucky.
Seriously, I’m the luckiest. I get to witness these children be spectacular every single day. I get to call them my children. I get to be their mom for the rest of eternity. I’m overcome with humbleness and love.

Whatever mess can be made of my things, my stuff…bring it on. Because someone thought me worthy enough to have these children, and I am eternally grateful. I will forever ask, "How did I get to be so lucky?"....but then, maybe not...maybe this one time, I will try to just go with the flow and not over analyze the hell out of it...I have much better things to be doing with my time...like be lucky.

Mother's Day all over...

2011-05-17T07:17:00.005-05:00

Yesterday was like Mother's Day all over again...except for the relaxing/pampering/lazy aspects...

Our family photo session pictures arrived in the mail after a month and a half of anticipation and they did not disappoint. I'm obsessed and in love and ordering too many canvases...I can't stop staring!

ALSO, my long-awaited Mother's Day present finally arrived...and iPad2...holy overwhelm! I've been searching the best apps for children and photo-taking and figuring out who I can use FaceTime with and, of course, showing Jim how to correctly play Angry Birds and getting lost in Pinterest...goodbye DVR'ed shows because it will be a struggle to tear me away from this gadget...

liley & her blankie

2011-05-13T12:55:00.003-05:00

The blanket that Nani has been working on since before Lila was even born is officially complete! It's a million percent adorbs...and even though Lila was fast asleep by the time I was finished "ooh-ing" and "ahh-ing" over it, I eventually passed it off to her and covered her as she peacefully slept.

And she slept better than she had in a while...no midnight rousing to reinsert her paci...and she woke up the happiest little thing...in turn causing her brother to wake up in a likewise happy manner...(I bring Lila in with me to wake him up: she sits next to Jack and pats him/pulls his hair awake...most days, he pulls her in close to him until she drools on him enough to sit up.)

All the happiness was simply contagious, so Jim and I both went about our happy mornings, destined to have happy days.

Moral of the story: Nani's blanket, made by hand with love, makes us all happy.

Self: need to take "real" pics of the blanket and not just camera snaps. Sor.

my mother's day

2011-05-09T09:13:00.002-05:00

I had a perfectly wonderful Mother’s Day. It was low stress and low maintenance and exactly what I wanted. Nothing lavish or fancy…and I loved every minute. I also dressed the kids in matching outfits because 1: they were adorable, and 2: someday they won't want to dress alike, or even have me dress them at all, and 3: because I felt like it!

I was just plain happy all day long. We made an impromptu visit to the petting zoo. Jack wanted to go to the “real” zoo, but that’s a bit of a production and I would have needed to mentally start preparing for the trip from the time my eyes opened (I have a problem).

While the rest of the family napped, I enjoyed 1 hour (in 15 minute increments in which I poked my head inside to ensure Liley was still napping) lounging in the sun with Pandora (Damien Rice Radio) and getting an awkward necklace tan line…it was great.
I’m thankful that I’m a mother. It’s tiring and stressful and hard…but, as I’d say during a job interview, “I thrive in challenging situations”…and I don’t know if I’d say I’m thriving so much, as surviving each day in a jungle of laundry and dishes and macaroni and peas, but I love this mom-thing. Love. It.

PS: I only got 2 pictures taken of myself and the kids, and I'm kicking myself. But I'm also mentally kicking Jim for not telling me that my hair was a huge, hot mess. Honestly, I won't take offense if you tell me to spend an extra minute in front of the mirror. Well, I might take offense but I'll thank you when I review the pictures.

things i love about you, mom...

2011-05-07T06:00:00.000-05:00

You’re funny…
You can make me smile no matter what.
You show me what it means to be a good mom…every.single.day.
You make me happy.
I love hearing you sing your songs about anything and nothing…even when they get stuck in my head.
You are the one person who can “talk me down” when life overwhelms me.
You always put us before yourself…and never give it a second thought or ask for anything in return.
You taught me what it means to love unconditionally.
You’re spontaneous.
You showed me the importance of following rules.
You let me break the rules sometimes.
You are always proud of me…for the big things, and the little things.
I love making you proud.
You have awesome legs…you do!
You make good food…and no matter how closely I follow your recipe, my meatloaf will never taste like yours.
You are always “on”…I’ll never understand how you do it.
You taught me to love antiquing…I love finding vintage treasures.
You taught me about the value of money, and finding a good deal.
You always have your soda and always know where the closest “soda store” is.
You’re Jack’s best friend…and becoming Lila’s favorite too.
You never missed a game.
You love to watch the Cardinals.
You don’t mind embarrassing us.
You’re never embarrassed by us (right?).
You showed me to always have manners, and to be nice and respectful…because mean people suck.
You always believed in me.
You always stand up for me.
You have a great laugh.
You’re an amazing Nani to Jack and Lila…they light up when they see you and that makes me happy.
You’re pretty.
You’ll do anything for them.
You showed me to always work hard, and to always do my best.
You work harder than anyone I know…and you never complain about it.
You’re a kid at heart.
You’re tough.
You always cheer the loudest.
You don’t need much to be happy.
You’re smart.
You always know just what to say.
You spoil us all: with presents, treats, food…but mostly love.

girls...

2011-05-05T15:25:00.001-05:00

Hoppy

2011-04-21T07:42:00.007-05:00

Today is a little Easter party at daycare, so Lila tried on her bunny ears...for about 3 seconds. Just long enough for me to gush over the cuteness! Please excuse the crappy cell phone pic and pile of laundry about to topple over on the chair!

Jack helped me make treat bags for his friends with a cute printable via eighteen25 (my new fav!).

And even though Jack sneaked a few marshmallows when I was (pretending) I wasn't looking...I think his friends will enjoy their Bunny Tails...

So much can change in 3 years...this was Jack's first Easter (2008) when he was 3 or 4 months old...

Seriously...this seems like forever ago...and yet it doesn't...

cognitive

2011-04-19T07:50:00.005-05:00

“She’s cognitive” –Jim

Lila is a thinker…and observer…she’s content to sit outside on a nice day and examine the world…she follows passing cars with her eyes…she laughs in delight as her brother dances and plays with her…she is happy to just take it all in…she’s very much like Jim (low maintenance) and she even has his toes (thankfully)!

Her first word was Dada (same as Jack). I would have conversations with her,
Me: Mama
Lila: Dada
M: Mama
L: Dada
M: Mama
L: Dada

But she finally got it! She says Mama! Now we’re working on “Bro-ther” or “Ba-ba” (maybe?) or “Jack”…they’re all kind of hard words for a baby to say, so I wonder what she will call him…but one thing's for sure: she knows him. She knows her big brother, whether she can call his name or not, her face says it all.

Lila raises her hands above her head (sometimes) when we ask her, “How big is Lila? Soooo big!” Yes you are baby girl…so big!

sticky children...

2011-04-18T07:56:00.003-05:00

Last weekend it was warm, and I didn’t want to do anything but sit outside and laze in the sun with the kids. The ice cream man made his inaugural visit of the year and Jack bought a Captain America popsicle because he thought it would give him super powers...or something. If it’s Superhero-related or pink…he wants it. Lila was interested in Daddy's popsicle... ...but didn't really love it... We all got sticky and sweaty and tired-out in the sun. I loved cleaning off sticky kids. There’s something about Jack looking all red-faced with his hair matted to his head, and cherry popsicle on his arms and head…it makes me anxious for endless days in the sun. PS: This weekend a chill came back to town and Jack was forced to wear his winter coat on Saturday, but then shorts and a t-shirt on Sunday…I’m ready for Mother Nature to decide that it can go ahead and be Spring for good…cause I’m over the cold!

conversations with Jack

2011-04-14T13:40:00.006-05:00

Jack collects trinkets, of sorts. He found a green pebble in the yard last weekend and carried it around all weekend. We spent lots of time retacing his steps when it was misplaced... He needs his “things”!

Yesterday when I picked him up, he ran over to me holding a wood chip from the playground:

J: Mommy, Mommy, look what I got for you!

M: Oh buddy I LOVE it…what is it?

J: It’s a DIAMOND (very emphatically), and when we get home, you can shape it into a necklace!

Note: Jack regularly brings home wood chips from school. Some days it’s a pretend piece of 'chewed' bubble gum (?!)...and some days, he just needs a wood chip...because you can never have too many wood chips...or diamonds.

Cadrinal day...

2011-04-14T07:07:00.002-05:00

It's Cardinal day!

Jack went old school with a Jim Edmonds shirt...I told him it was one of Nani's favorites and he got even more excited. I even taught him the, "Duh duh duh duh du-dah! CHARGE!" We're working on it.

Lila also went old school with one of Jack's old get-ups. Too cute...seriously. Too. Cute.

Wacky...

2011-04-12T08:11:00.006-05:00

It’s a sort of spirit week at Jack and Lila’s daycare…and today is wacky Tuesday. See below...so wacky that he can't be bothered to stay still!

Jack and I had so much fun last night picking out his wacky outfit: he wore his AC/DC “tie” shirt, a plaid button up, and for good measure I threw some pink legwarmers on his arms and pink socks. (Not pictured: shorts, but they were def. worn to school!)

Jack said, “I’m like a superhero!”, which is his new favorite thing lately. And honestly, he did look like a superhero…he’s my superhero. Captain Wonky…Super Crazy-boy…Funny-man…The Joker. Yes…Jack the Joker!

wish i was here...

2011-04-08T14:57:00.002-05:00

Today is a day I wish I was on a plane, heading to some place warm...with a pool...and no work...

flashbacks from May 2010

scenes from our friday night

2011-04-07T08:57:00.003-05:00

Jack is wild. Crazy, busy, wild. He's always on the move and has so many activities he "HAS" to do! So when we finished playing superheros last Friday (I'm pretty sure I 'lost' even though it wasn't really a win/loss-kinda game), I went to change into my home uniform (sweats) while Jim (unintentionally) napped on the couch and Jack picked up our game. When I came back, Jack made himself nice and comfy snuggled up to his daddy...and the very heavy sleeper never knew the difference...

How endearing. Whether we're unaware or fully present...it's all the same to our children: we are pillows and wrestling partners and best friends and snuggle buddies...awake or asleep, it's all the same to them.

smile for the camera...

2011-04-07T08:27:00.004-05:00

Note for my memory book, since #1 I’m terrible at remembering things and #2 I don’t actually HAVE a memory book: the teeth actually appeared on March 19. Just before her 8 month birthday. Her two bottom teeth are through…and she didn’t complain too much about it. She’s seriously so complacent…she gets that from her father FOR SURE. She’s so easy going and happy…in daycare, when the other babies are crying for attention and fussing, Lila just sits by happily and plays with her toys (so I’m told). Go with the flow, Baby girl... I also received the complement, "She just looks so clean!"...which was totally hilarious because it had been 4 days since her last bath! With our busy schedules, we're always rushing around to get our daily "To Do's", done...so if we skip a bath now and then in exchange for some extra play/cuddle time...I'm good with that.

Liley on a bench

2011-04-05T09:36:00.002-05:00

Last week we had a family photo shoot session with Mckmama, and though it will be a while before we get the full run of photos, we got a sneek peak with this gem of Liley...I'm IN LOVE...with this picture...with this bench (is that wierd?!)...with this girl...with her brother...in love.

sleep

2011-04-05T07:20:00.001-05:00

she couldn't be cuter: wearing her brother's old pj's...with her little butt propped up in the air...peaceful and dreaming...

friendly

2011-04-04T09:24:00.006-05:00

At our usual Friday night family dinner, Jack ran into one of his best friends from daycare. It was a thrill to see Jack play with his little friend in their element…they enjoyed one another so much and it made me so happy to see them hug and play and be carefree kids! I saw my baby boy as a big kid, running and playing with his friend…not needing Mom to hold his hand and watch his every move…and as sad as it was to realize how grown up he has become, I was also filled with pride watching my little wild man…he makes me so damn proud!

thank you, jack & liley...

2011-03-31T11:24:00.005-05:00

Sometimes, I just need to look at pictures of these two to remind me to be happy. Seems strange…it shouldn’t be something that I have to remind myself to feel…but when stresses are overwhelming, and I can’t see clearly, I look at my favorite people and everything else melts away.

Lila & Ava

2011-03-28T13:32:00.004-05:00

Can you see the cousin resemblance? The nose...the eyes...the cheeks and chin?! There's def. the Greffet side coming out when I see Lila with her cousin Ava...

But it's strange because Lila also looks exactly like how my sister looked as a baby...once while holding Lila, my sister even received the compliment, "Well you've got one that looks just like you!" (jeal)

So I can't say with certainty exactly where Lila gets her good looks from...but when that little girl smiles...my goodness it lights up the room...and Jack, well, he's just a miniature version of my dad...except with hair...

boring.

2011-03-21T11:04:00.004-05:00

It was a long 4 hour trip into KC on Friday. Jack was too wound up to relax. His little mind was racing with all of the fun and excitement he would soon be having with his cousin, Ava. Nothing would calm him down...not even the old standby: The Little Mermaid.

3 hours into it, I jumped on the internet to read Jim this blog post by my girlfriend, because she is hilarious and I needed some comedic relief after 3 straight hours of failing to be entertaining. It took roughly 2 minutes. By the time I finished, I realized that all was quiet in the back seat. I turned around to see Jack peacefully passed out. Success!

I immediately texted Laura to let her know that she was the answer to all of Jack's sleeping issues. She suggested that from now on, I sit outside his room reading her blog and he would soon train himself to sleep/pass out from boredom. I think this might be counter-productive, however, because I cannot read her blog without laughing out loud...and if Jack heard me outside his room laughing hysterically, my efforts might be counterproductive.

The next day, I received a text from my friend with the following:
“Just so you know, youre boring as shit too.”

Even distance cannot keep us, sisters in motherhood, from helping one another out. Thank you, Laura. And, you're welcome.

snapshots of the weekend...

2011-03-20T09:32:00.001-05:00