REENblack

Amazing!

2012-01-29T22:05:00.002-06:00

This evening I went to some friends to watch their almost one year old son so they could go on their second date since having him. (I had no idea, otherwise I would have offered sooner!) While I was there, Ethan sent me this video titled "Amazing Lego Car." (I think he sent it to some other people too because this is what he wrote in the text: "My dad helped me make this it was going to be a small racecar but now its a huge truck"

When I got home he showed it to me in person and was just a weeee bit excited! I love that he still loves Legos and plays with them ALL time time! I know he's going to be 13 in a few weeks...but I don't him to grow up any time soon!

No Pics For Now

2012-01-22T11:49:00.000-06:00

Looks like yesterday was the last of my automatic posting posts...

I wish I had more ready to go, or the time to go through the pictures from the cruise with Grandma, but I don't right now. I'm teaching (the class I'm student teaching with) this week (and am scared out of my mind!!!). I have worked on the presentation for HOURS and have HOURS left to do. I don't know how I could make this any smoother or how instructors do this for EVERY class. Its crazy what goes into it! I seriously never thought it would be this time consuming, and it makes me wonder if I really want to be a classroom teachers someday. Maybe I'll be a clinical instructor instead.

We did go hang out with some friends yesterday. It was a lot of fun and a much needed break for Roby and me! I think its something we'll need to do more often. Its two other couples, so maybe we could rotate houses once a month. Hmmmm Something to think about!

Hopefully next weekend I'll remember to make more posts. Honestly, the only pictures I think I haven't posted at this point are from the cruise.

Hope everyone is having a good January, and that the crazy weather isn't too bad where you live!

A Few Randoms

2012-01-21T07:00:00.000-06:00

I'm getting closer and closer to being caught up! These are still pics from before fall though...The good (or not so good, depending on how you look at it) news is that I don't have many pictures to go through from the time of Ethan playing football to Christmas (most pictures from in between I've already posted). There are a few things I'm not 100% sure if I'll post about (ex: Natalie's Girl Scout bridging ceremony), but I feel that I should because its something that happened in our lives. The next big event is the cruise we went on to celebrate Grandma Harris' birthday over Thanksgiving week. As I make this post (on January 2nd), I have a lot starting up again soon, and am not sure when I'll get the time to make more posts. We'll see!

During the fall, I spent a lot of time painting Natalie's nails to try and help her stop biting them. It actually worked really well for a month or two! Then she had to take the state tests at school and she bit them all off. I would like to paint them again, but she hasn't asked, so I haven't done it for a while. Before most of Ethan's football games, we spent the time waiting to paint nails.

More fun nails.

Natalie ready for her FIRST dance lesson!

She was soooooooo excited!

This summer Roby (and the kids) built a little gate for our porch to keep the dogs on or off. They would spend the whole time they were outside either sitting on the porch or running back and forth along the gate barking at the neighbor dogs.

Poor Farley wanted to help, but we wouldn't let him on the porch.

Summer Time

2012-01-20T07:00:00.000-06:00

These pictures were from a weekend or two after school started. The weather was perfect and Natalie was bored. I suggested she take her tent into the backyard and play for a while. She ended up having a blast with whatever she took to play with in her tent, and the dogs had fun just having her out there.

Farley thought that because the tent was out there, it was his to play in. Natalie didn't mind too much!

Farley kept peeking in to see what Natalie was up to.

Natalie decided that Maggie needed to dress up for the party she was having. Good thing Maggie thought it was fun idea too!

Farley wanted a picture!

Natalie LOVES her puppies!

I think they love her too!

Ethan and I had a very serious talk about something (obviously, very serious). He's so stinking cute!

As Natalie was getting thing out to play with, she grabbed the sled to make into part of her tent. She later decided that Maggie should go for a ride. I was surprised, and couldn't stop laughing, that Maggie just sat on it and let Natalie take her wherever she wanted.

Football

2012-01-19T07:00:00.000-06:00

Ethan played football for his middle school this year. I'm still not exactly sure why he all of a sudden wanted to play after not playing sports for so long. But if he wanted to play, I was all for it. He had several days of try-outs to see what team he would be one, then practice every day after school for a couple weeks before their first game. He was number 19 and he was an alternate defensive safety (yes, I had to ask Roby).

After Ethan got all his gear, he had to try it all on for me.

All of his games were not long after school got out, which is still kinda weird. I was able to go to all but one game and Roby was able to go to all of his games (one game we got there half way through, and he had played the first half...I was totally bummed). Natalie and I often got there early so we could find a place to sit and not have to park too far away.

Doing warm ups.

I love this pic. Ethan had a huge smile after one of his games that he did really well in.

Although it was hard, Natalie did a good job waiting around for his games to finish...not her favorite thing to do.

This isn't the best example, but Ethan was much much shorter than most of his teammates. I had a few pictures where his head barley came up to their shoulders.

If you can find him, he was running toward the guy with the ball.

I love the pic on the left too! He snuck a little wave to mom in!

Here is a better example of Ethan's height...find #19!

He seemed to have fun, but didn't like how he would get punished (by having to run/whatever) when other kids wouldn't do what they were supposed to. We tried to explain that that's how team sports work, but he wasn't a fan. He also wasn't a fan of getting home after six pm every night. I have encouraged him to participate in other after school activities, but I don't know if that will happen any time soon. I do know that there is a type of jazz band or jazz choir that he could play bass guitar in. I'm not sure if its something he'll do, but something to think about.

First Day Of Fourth and Seventh Grades (five months later)

2012-01-18T07:00:00.000-06:00

Yup, now that the kids are half way through the year, I figured first day of school pics are in order. Roby didn't have to work that day, and I requested to go in late so I could take the kids to school.

I love my kiddos!

They look so stinking big!

And they are forever silly!

And can be so sweet!

This is the first year they are going to different schools. They won't go to the same school again until Natalie is a freshman in high school (which will never happen, because I told them to stop getting older...).

They were a little excited on their way to school.

Tie-Dye

2012-01-17T07:00:00.000-06:00

I'm not sure what brought it up, I'm pretty sure it was Natalie, but the kids and I decided to make some tie-dye shirts. We did this on on of their last summer evenings before school started back up. We got a kit, some shirts, and watched a few videos online for ideas.

Ethan wanted to do swirls, Natalie just wanted to make pretty patterns, and I made some smile face shirts (that look like fish when you make them!).

After dying all our shirts, we put them in plastic bags overnight to let the color soak in. I got up early the next morning before work to rinse them out and put them in the wash...it was a bigger task than I thought it would be to rinse them all out!

I think they had a pretty good time being creative! Ethan wears his on weekends or for pj's, Natalie wears hers all the time! Nat has asked a couple times if we could do it again...maybe next summer!

Braces?! What Braces???

2012-01-16T07:00:00.000-06:00

Braces. Oh how most people loooove them. I know I'm funny. The day finally came for Natalie to get her first set of braces off! She was just a tad excited! We decided to take a few (aka a LOT) of before and after pictures.

She cracks me...and herself up!

No matter what, I love her smile!

Ethan was super supportive and sweet!

Last pics with braces on!

And they're off!!!

Unfortunately I wasn't the first one to get a pic of Natalie's brace free teeth! Ethan had it covered by taking a pic with his phone!

The first thing she wanted to do was CHEW GUM!!! We bought some for occasion.

So happy!!!

So much GUM!!!

I love my kids! Having a blast blowing bubbles on our porch. What tops that???

Yup, that's our girl!

We Love College

2012-01-16T00:29:00.001-06:00

I just completed creating my first lesson plan. I have one more to do this semester. Ugh It was a LOT more time consuming than I imagined it would be! I worked on it a little here and there, then ALL day yesterday and today. I will be presenting this lesson on the 26th, so I have plenty of time to stress if it will work out well or not.

Roby is in his second week of his classes. He completed his first speech today (I think it turned out really well!). He cracks me up with how stressed he gets right before something is due. I'm sure I was 100 times worse my first semester back in school!

Roby and the kids have tomorrow off (I have to work). They are all extremely happy to sleep in and do what they want! I think Roby is going to take Nat to breakfast tomorrow. Just the two of them. I know she'll LOVE it!

And now, I'm going to get those five hours of sleep I desperately need before work...zzzzzzzzzzzzz

The Kids Come Home

2012-01-15T07:00:00.000-06:00

After five weeks, Grandma and her brother drove the kids back home. I know they had a great time visiting Grandma and other relatives, but I'm sure they were happy to come home too. We didn't do anything very exciting the few days Grandma was here, but it was nice to just hang out. The kids showed her some games on the Wii, we played board games, and just hung out. It was weird and wonderful having Grandma in MY house for the first time!

Natalie missed Maggie! She dressed her up in several outfits and didn't let Maggie out of her site for quite a while!

At one point Natalie started showing grandma her beads. Someone thought it would be a good idea to organize them, so that's what we all did!

Grandma gave the kids some gifts before she left.

The kids really wanted to show me their new swimming skills! After one failed attempt (the pool had closed for non-existent bad weather), we headed to the indoor swimming pool. I'm seriously impressed with how confidant and how good they are!

Check out these swimming skills!

We taught Grandma how to play Pictureka!

My grandma and me.

Sent Pictures

2012-01-14T07:00:00.000-06:00

While the kids were in California, Ethan and Grandma sent me a few pictures! I was completely thrilled with every picture ('cause I missed them a wee bit).

The morning we left, I wrote on the little white board we got Nat to keep her entertained that I love her and will miss her. A few hours after we left I got this picture.

Rhonda gave the kids some gifts. Very thoughtful!

There are three pictures I absolutely love that were sent to me. This one is of Natalie holding a baby duck. Such a big smile! She told me over and overall about the little ducks!

Ethan cracks me up. I missed his face, and this was a good pic (I think Natalie took it).

I sooooo wish I was there for this pic! I got tears in my eyes when I got it. Natalie fed some baby goats, and I can tell she was giggling and couldn't stop smiling! So many great experiences!

The End (Of Epic Summer 2011 Vacation)

2012-01-13T07:00:00.000-06:00

After leaving California, we headed to Las Vegas to see one of Roby's friends and my friend, Steph. We had lunch with Roby's friend and his wife, then had dinner with Steph and her family. It was wonderful seeing friends, I just wish we were able to spend more time there.

We had many stops along the way let take breaks, let the dogs out, and get a few hours of sleep.

While going over a pass, we encountered a bit of a snow storm...at the end of June.

And this my friends, is our trip odometer when we pulled into our garage.

Five thousand...seven hundred...thirty three point seven miles.

We drove from our home to Walla Walla, Wa to Ferndale, Wa to Kingston, Wa, to Eugene, Or to Yucaipa, Ca, to Las Vegas and back home. It ended up being about seven days (out of 28) in my little Toyota Matrix. Most of the time with two adults, two kids, two dogs, and all our luggage. I thought we would get extremely irritated with each other and tired of being in the car. Yes, we got tired of being in the car, but it was manageable. I'm not saying I want to do that again any time soon, but it was ok and WELL worth it!

Just Hanging Out In CA

2012-01-12T07:00:00.000-06:00

After today's post, only two more from our epic summer trip! Here are a few pictures from hanging our with Grandma, Rhonda, Ruthie, Greg, Jen, and Jeff.

The girls made lemonade from the lemons they picked from a tree in the backyard. Once they added some water and sugar it was pretty good!

They had a blast!

Natalie picked a beautiful bouquet of roses.

Roby, the kids and I at at In-N-Out for the first time while we were there.

Ethan and Jeff decided to play with Air Soft guns. They geared up and were ready to go.

One evening we all went out to dinner.

I know most of you know, but when we left California, the kids stayed there with Grandma. This was the FIRST time I've left them for more than three nights. We were all excited and nervous. I tried really hard not to cry, and managed not to until Roby and I drove away. I knew they would have a great time, but I knew they'd be there for several weeks and I wouldn't know what to do with myself! (They ended up staying for five whole weeks!) Grandma took them to swim lessons (something they both greatly needed), a local fun park, and all kinds of other things! They had an amazing time!!!

Sea World

2012-01-11T07:00:00.000-06:00

The day after going to Disneyland, Grandma, Ruthi, Greg, Jeff, and Jen went with us went to Sea World. It was fun, but it has changed a whole lot since I went last.

Sitting waiting for the first show.

We did lots of walking to see all the animals and see what we could see.

I love this pic of her. I seem to get pictures like this of Natalie quite often. She loves sitting and watching animals.

Sea lions!!! One of my favorite things to see at Sea World! I remember watching them for quite some time with Gma and Gpa when I was younger.

The kids feeding the sea lions.

We were able to see quite a few shows while at Sea World. My favorites are the Shamu show and the one with the sea lions/otters/walrus/etc.

After the Shamu show, we went on the water ride. It was probably a little too cool out to go, but it was fun...we all got pretty darn wet!!! (I thought I had a pic or two of Nat and Jen on it, but I can't find it.)

Roby and Ethan joking about something...I don't know exactly what they were talking about, but they were getting a kick out of it!

I love the touch pond. So many neat things to look at.

Natalie found on of the six legged starfish. There were two or three in the pond. The lady said they grew like that after losing all/part of one of their legs.

The dolphin pond was one of the last things we saw before leaving for the day. The kids really really really wanted to touch them!

If you fast forward to about half way, you can see when Ethan and Nat are able to reach the dolphin. Ethan looks over at me and smiles really big!

The kids got several of these coins at places we went this summer...don't ask me if they know where they are now though...

DISNEYLAND!!!

2012-01-10T07:00:00.000-06:00

We only spent a couple days in California visiting my Grandma and a few other relatives, but we made sure to make the best of our time! I posted this video a while ago (on the kids' last day of school we told them our big plans!).

Natalie couldn't stop talking about going to Disneyland! She was, if possible, more excited than me! She told everyone about it and how excited she was! I don't think she slept much the night before we went!

Can you see her excitement?!

This is right when we walked in Disneyland. I LOVE seeing these pictures even now! So much joy!!!

The first place we went was Toon Town. We decided to take it easy for their first rides. We went on the Rodger Rabbit ride...but had to wait at least 30 minutes when we were half way through the line and it broke down. It was worth the smiles though!

We then headed to our first roller coaster of the day, the one I took the BEST video ever on! The kids were just a little excited while waiting in line!

I'm pretty sure I've already posted this video as well, but it makes me smile every time, and I've seen it dozens of times! She seriously screamed like this on EVERY ride, would jump off and ask to do every one again! (Besides Splash Mountain. I don't like that one either!)

In front of the castle and Thunder Mountain (we went on Thunder Mt. at least four times).

On the right, we were in line for Splash Mt. Ethan loved it, Natalie is on my side and would rather not go again...

We brought some food with us, but were famished and stopped at a BBQ restaurant to replenish our fuel. The kids thought they were cowboys.

They crack me up! I think they were having a good day!

To prove we went on Thunder Mt a few times, it seems most of the pictures I took are of us in line or on the ride.

Natalie pretended she was scared, but couldn't keep it up long before she was giggling.

Check out that excitement!

More Thunder Mt.!

And a video on one of our Thunder Mt. rides.

Walking to a different ride. (Or skipping in Natalie's case.)

One of my all time favorite rides is Space Mountain. I remember going over and over on slow days with my grandpa in tow. The ride was closed most of the day we were there, but luckily it opened about two hours before closing. It was our last ride of the day, and I think it was the kids' new favorite (after Thunder Mt. of course).

We took pictures of the pictures they took of us on the ride. I don't know why I didn't think about that after going on Splash Mt! Those were some good pics!

As we were leaving, the streets lit up with lights. We watched part of the fireworks show, but were on Space Mt for most of it.

Two very happy kidoes!

Two very sleepy kidoes too!

Buddy

2012-01-09T07:00:00.000-06:00

After leaving Roby's moms, we headed down toward California. On the way, we stopped to see a friend Roby worked with in Germany. It was very nice that we were able to take the dogs to a dog park across the street from his house, then hung out for a while before getting on the road again.

Roby's Pics From The Beach

2012-01-08T07:00:00.000-06:00

As I was going through pics, I realized I had a bunch from Roby's camera too! Maybe I need to take his camera and see what else he has on there!

See, even a pic of me! (From the other post when I was taking a picture of him...told you we're brilliant!)

We all spent quite a bit if time playing Bolo (aka Ball Dangle).

We also spent a LOT of time lounging on the deck. SO relaxing!

There are always a bunch of tugs and other boats passing by, Roby was testing out the zoom on his camera. Impressive.

An afternoon hanging at the beach.

The dogs really loved it!

BTW, that water is REALLY cold!

Mark and Shastyn are soooo cute!

Farley was LOVING running on the beach and finding shells!

Farley loved finding clam shells and running around with them. We would throw them and he would find the exact one he had before. He would crack us all up when he found a shell where the halves were still connected...and run around with it in his mouth...with one half sticking up in front of his eyes. He couldn't see where he was going, and would almost fall over. But he loved it and kept going!

Natalie and her puppies.

June 11-12, 2011 - Catie's Graduation and Party

2012-01-07T07:00:00.000-06:00

So...here are LOT of pics (mostly of her Catie's party). I'm going to make most of them fairly small, but if you click on them, they'll open big.

I only took a few pictures of Catie's graduation because Shastyn took a bunch and I was taking video (which I won't post, but Catie has).

* * * * * * * * * *

Shastyn showing off (someone elses) fruit!

Everyone just hanging out...and Natalie jumping off the deck!

Roby and Grandma relaxing together.

Natalie has a hot dog and knows how to use it!

Whoever brought the little swards was a genius! They kept the kids entertained (and eating fruit) for hours!

Catie and her friends!

Happy Graduation Catie Beth!!!

June 11, 2011

2012-01-06T07:00:00.000-06:00

After Catie's graduation (post tomorrow), our family headed out to Point No Point. This is a place I've heard about every time we visit, but we had never been. It was the perfect day to go! Sunny, but not a ton of people.

This was on a rock as we walked up to the lighthouse.

The lighthouse.

Cool date above a door.

Ethan and Roby walking on the rocks heading toward the beach.

I LOVE LOVE LOVE her face in the pic above! Apparently the water was a bit cool and it surprised her because she was looking for shells. :-)

Roby and I were brilliant and took pics of each other. I just like his smile!

I'd never seen something like this before! That's a lot of drift wood!

I don't remember what that face was for, but she looks extremely worried...or she just didn't want to smile.

A cool "boat house" on the way to/from Point No Point.

By the time we were done at Point No Point, we were famished. We just had to go to the crepe store in Kingston! They make DELICIOUS crepes!!! Afterward, the kids neeeeeded ice cream!

More beach fun at Gma Nans and GiGi's.

And of course, Ethan being Ethan.

June 10, 2011

2012-01-05T07:00:00.000-06:00

More pics hanging out on the beach for today's post. I guess we spent a good deal of our time there!

Roby, Gma Nan (and Catie!).

Adam was the bolo champion!

Connor and Ayla working on something important.

I love my kids!

The pic on the left cracks me up. He was just standing there watching the waves for a long time...then bolted toward Connor and Ayla to help them out.

A completely blurry pic, but her joy always amazes me!

I love that they were able to hang out with their cousins so much!!!

Natalie asked me if I could take a few pictures of her by the water...of course!

This are two of my favorites of Natalie from the summer! Such an amazing smile!

I think they thoroughly enjoyed EVERY day of our vacation!

June 9-10 2011 - Visiting The Nixon Family

2012-01-04T07:00:00.000-06:00

One of the main reasons why we went on our summer trip was to be at Catie's high school graduation. Not to mention not being in Washington for four years! We had been planning on going for at least two years, and were quite busy seeing so many people and doing things with/for Catie's graduation. I always feel like we never spend enough time with my aunt Deena and her family, but I was happy we were able to stop in when all my cousins were there! (Benj had recently returned to the states from taking college courses in Mexico.)

My cousins, my kids, and me.

With Deena and Brian.

Just a random pic I took, but wanted to share.

Farley loves his Roby.

June 5, 2011 (With A Great Video!!!)

2012-01-03T07:00:00.000-06:00

More beach exploration! (Almost every day!)

Exploring is even more fun with cousins!

Adam is so stinking cute!!!

They dug huge trenches for the water to go in.

When the tide was way out, a bunch of us went looking for sea life.

Finding tiny star fish and crabs.

I LOVE Natalie's face in this pic! She found tiny sea shells.

Digging for clams and geoducks.

Here it is, one of the best videos from our trip!

He got a little wet and cold.

Natalie is our dancing queen.

Grandma and her great-grand kids (and Maggie)hanging out by the bonfire.

Soooo Many Beach Pictures! - June 4, 2011

2012-01-02T07:00:00.000-06:00

June 4, 2011

Because I have so many pictures, I decided to post a lot of them by date. Here are a few pics from June 4th when we first got to Gma Nan and Papa Jims. The kids instantly wanted to go down to the beach!

Nat instantly started moving drift wood to make a fort.

We had to walk on the beach to find shells and sea glass.

Finding shells never gets old!

Natalie drew her name in the sand.

So pretty!

Peace On Earth

2011-12-31T07:00:00.001-06:00

Natalie had her very first dance recital on December 11th. She has only been taking lessons for three months, and absolutely loves it! This recital was an extra one (not everyone does it, and you have to pay a little more to participate). The dance she did was just her and another girl who is just a couple months younger than Nat and has been taking lessons just as long. They had a blast practicing together and getting to know each other. The song they danced to was "Let There Be Peace On Earth." I thought it would be appropriate to post it today, the last day of 2011!

I volunteered to help with the rehearsal and backstage during one of the two shows (they had one at 3:00 and one at 7:00 -- so the little ones could get to bed on time). Natalie was bummed I wasn't back stage for the second one, but I really wanted to be in the audience!

Natalie and the other girl kept busy at the rehearsal coloring and reading books.

Cheese!

This was most of the dancers for the recital (minus five or ten and most of the girls danced in more than one dance).

And here it is!

I was worried I wouldn't be able to share the dance because they didn't allow pictures/video during the show. We got the DVD, but I knew the file type wouldn't be compatible with my video editing program. Luckily, Roby is tech savvy enough to convert the type of file it came on into something compatible for me to edit! Good teamwork if I do say so! (I believe you can click on it and view it on Y0uTube. From there you can enlarge it to full screen so its not quite as small.)

Roby got Natalie some beautiful flowers to give her after the show. Its the first time she got her own flowers and was beyond excited!

Nat was absolutely glowing after her performances! I'm so glad we got her into dance, and I really think it will help her build confidence in herself! Her next recital will be in April or May!

Bon Fire

2011-12-30T07:00:00.000-06:00

After visiting Nathan, we headed over to Roby's mom's house. While there we had many bone fires in front of his grandma's. Nothing beats a hot dog cooked over drift wood on the beach!

Ethan checking how done his dogs are.

This isn't a bone fire pic, but I took it while we were out there. The kids (Ethan, Nat, Connor and Adam) all build drift wood forts on the beach, Natalie wanted to show me the start of hers.

Ethan's.

Roby and Nat

Skipping shells

Roby and GiGi

Mmmmmm S'mores!

Delicious!

They are the best when they are gooooey!

Catie Beth, Roby, and GiGi

Natalie got mad about something, so I tried to make her laugh by taking silly pics...

Pretty fire

Papa Jim

Ethan being a monkey

Finally she was silly too.

Visit To Nathan's

2011-12-29T07:00:00.000-06:00

FINALLY! I went thought about a million pictures and another million videos I took while visiting Nathan. (Well, almost) Then, I had it all ready to go and I closed it thinking it had saved...and it didn't. I had to re-add all the pictures, video, edit where the pictures are on the post, and retype stuff. I can't remember what I typed the first time, so hopefully I didn't skip too much.

Hanging out with Nathan was a blast. The first evening we were there, the boys skated, we went out to dinner, and played ping-pong. Most of the next day was spent skating as well. All in all, it was a good time!

Ender wasn't so sure about our dogs in his house.

Natalie found an amazing Alice In Wonderland pop-up book.

PING PONG time.

And now, tons of skate pictures!

Roby got in on the skate action too!

Ethan tried to work up the never to go down the big part of the half pipe the first evening...but couldn't force himself, no matter how much he wanted, to go down.

Watching Nathan's skillz.

Ender is an amazing dog! I couldn't help but take some pics of him!

Ethan had such a great time!!!

Our dogs had fun running around Nathan's yard.

I love the barn behind Nathan's house! I wish I would have thought to take some pics of the kids by it, especially on such a beautiful day! Next time!

Check out Roby's skills!

HE DID IT!!!

Having fun, even when falling!

I love this pic!

Natalie loves her uncle!

Video time!

Ethan trying to drop in.

He did it!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ethan AND Roby dropping it.

Chior Concert & Christmas Party

2011-12-28T07:00:00.000-06:00

As a lot of you know, because Ethan didn't do band in elementary school, he gets to take choir this year. He seems to be ok with it, often telling me about the songs they are learning. They will have two performances, one was earlier this month and the other will be at the end of the year. I took a couple videos of the songs I knew he liked, so hopefully by the time this posts I'll have them up as well.

* * * * * * * * * *

Several months ago I asked to have the afternoon of Natalie's Christmas party off work. Up until the day before, I was asked at least daily if I could work and "go to her next party instead." Nope! One of the reasons why I wanted to be a dental hygienist instead of a nurse is so I can still participate in some of my kids' activities. I won't be able to go to every party/field trip/etc, but I want to go when they still want me there! Natalie was thrilled that I was able to make it, and because I didn't help with any of the projects, I was free to enjoy her company.

Decorating cookies, giving me some Natalie attitude, and working on her sock snow man.

Don't tell Nat I posted this pic! The boy in the pic is who she has a crush on. So sweet!

The class with their sock snow men.

More Christmas 2011

2011-12-27T07:00:00.000-06:00

All in all, we had an absolutely fabulous day! The dogs loved all their new toys with squeakers that actually work. The kids kept extremely busy opening and playing with various games and toys. I read about half of one on my new books and Roby thoroughly enjoyed his new toys (including an Air Hogs helicopter). I took a few pics, but was too busy enjoying the day to think about having my camera in hand the whole time.

Ethan putting together his game from GGma Harris. He spent quite a bit of time putting his things together and just hanging out. (He did play some of his new video games too!) When I asked him what his favorite gift was, he said they were all great! I asked him if he liked his video game as much as his books and puzzle and rubber band gun...etc...he said, "YUP!"

Natalie told me that she loved all of her art stuff the most! She is very creative! I was surprised at how much time she spent with her Crayola toy that makes beads. At least two hours! I had fun making a few beads too! The rest of the day she had her new lamp on her desk and was using various art supplies she got to draw and color (she even got Mr. Sketch markers!!!). I wish I would have gotten a picture of that, but I'm sure I can get one tomorrow!

Ethan loves his new Rush Hour game! He played it quite a bit at GGma Harris' and can't wait to beat all 60 levels this one came with!

Thanks again to everyone who sent the kids gifts, and hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas!!!

So Many Posts!

2011-12-26T22:24:00.003-06:00

I have now made 26 posts (starting on Dec 24th). One will post each day at least until January 16th. I'm into pictures in August now, so will get to pictures from the cruise we went on last month by February or so... If anything crazy or special happens in the mean time, I'll be sure to post asap.

Hope you all enjoy the picture overload!

Santa & Family

2011-12-26T07:00:00.000-06:00

I wasn't very good about getting in the Christmas Spirit this year. I'm not sure why... I didn't get all the decorations out, I didn't take a bunch of pics of the kids putting up the ornaments or doing the count-down. But, I did enjoy all those moments! We got a REAL Christmas tree for the first time in TEN years this year! I absolutely love it and don't know why we haven't done this before! The smell isn't overpowering, but you can tell its there. It isn't perfectly symmetrical, but I think it looks amazing with all the kids' ornaments! We will be donating our fake tree next year and continue to get real trees for sure!

Our tree, in all its lop-sided glory, after Santa came.

Ours, and the dogs,

stockings.

Santa Came!! Natalie drew a nice picture to put by the milk and cookies.

SO excited!

A big cuddly blanket! Soooo soft.

We are so fortunate to have so many family and friends that think about us and wish us well during the holidays (and all year!). We were all even spoiled by quite a few of those family members! I didn't take many pictures of the kids opening gifts from us, but I tried to take pictures of them opening gifts from others. (Sorry if I missed something!)

Thank you Gma Nan, Papa Jim, and Auntie Catie!

SO many cool and fun things!!! We cant wait until it snows so we can use the snow tubes!

Lots of NICE clothes too!

Ethan is very excited about his gift card! There is a game he really really wants, but I didn't know about and didn't get...

Polly Pockets and a game from MeMa and their big gift from us; a Kinect!

More spoiling from GiGi and Gpa Bob!

Spoiled and they know it!

Thank you, thank you, thank you to everyone who thought about us and/or who sent us such amazing gifts! (We also got AMAZING photographs that are on gorgeous displays from Shastyn and Gma Nan - from the family photographs Shastyn took this summer. We absolutely LOVE them!) We hope everyone else had an amazing and safe Christmas and Hanukkah!!!

HAPPY Christmas!

2011-12-25T07:00:00.000-06:00

Hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas!

Merry Christmas Eve

2011-12-24T11:06:00.001-06:00

Merry Christmas Eve everyone!

This may be the last year I take my child(ren) to see Santa. Kinda sad. Natalie has been acting like Santa is real, despite our conversations last year, so I'm going with it. I don't know if she's pretending because we asked her to, or if she still believes... Regardless, we went to see Santa and she couldn't stop smiling.

They insisted I get in on the picture action.

Such a sweet smile.

I can't get over how much time Santa spends talking to each child. Making sure they each feel special and that he knows how good they've been all year.

One last big hug before it was the next kids turn. I hope we'll be back next year!

* * * * * * * * * *

I have to apologize to those of you who check my blog and have been disappointed that I haven't been posting. I guess I didn't realize many people still look at it. Besides being extremely busy with my school work, working three days a week, the kids' school work and their activities, etc...I've been stuck with going through pictures. I literally have thousands of pictures from our trip this summer and since then that I haven't gone through or organized. It takes a lot of time, and I wasn't sure it was worth the effort. Because I've now had several people tell me they have missed me posting, I will try my best to keep on top of it. (Plus, I'll only be taking six credit hours instead of twelve - I did get all A's!!! - next semester which should help some.)

Quick updates:

Roby seems to be enjoying his job. He's teaching classes now and will be starting some college classes next month. He has also adjusted to being home all the time, and has helped me more than he can realize with simple things like picking Natalie up from after school daycare, taking her to dance, spending lots of time with Ethan, picking a few things up from the store, whatever. Its the simple things that make a difference!

I'm done with my first semester toward my bachelors degree. I could get it done in another two, but will be taking four to complete it so I don't loose my mind. I'll be student teaching for the first time next semester (I'll be teaching two class sessions, but need to be there for all of them). I'm working a LOT right now as people are making sure to use their benefits before the year ends, but starting in two weeks, it'll be back down to three days a week. I haven't had time to take many day-to-day pictures, and I miss it.

Ethan is still loving bass guitar lessons. He seems to pick it up rather quickly. He is always very excited when he comes out of the lesson and tells me all the new things he's learning. He's doing really well in school. He never did move up into the advanced math. I guess the week he decided he wanted to, he got a B on a quiz, so his teacher said they should wait. I'm not sure why, but Ethan seems ok where he is now, so I won't push it. He's extremely excited about turning THIRTEEN in less than two months, and won't let me forget it for more than a couple days!

Natalie is her usual Natalie self. She ended up quitting Girl Scouts because some of the mean girls in her grade are in it now, and with dance, it was just too much. She hasn't mentioned it once since she quit. She is LOVING dance lessons! Earlier this month she had her first dance performance and absolutely loved it! She wants to take more classes, but I think we'll wait until next year to add to her schedule. She's doing well in school, but struggles with her teacher always rushing them, so doesn't always do as well as I know she can do. We have finally come to the understanding that every now and then we get a teacher that is a little more difficult than others, and just have to learn through it. Plus, they are already half way through the year!

Dogs...are our dogs. Maggie is currently cuddling with me on the couch and Farley is feeling left out so he's laying his head on my leg begging for attention.

Enough typing for now, I'm going to start going through some pictures and hope to make a few daily posts for next week.

School SPIRIT

2011-11-18T08:54:00.001-06:00

Today Natalie's school had SPIRIT DAY! Yesterday afternoon they decorated their class and were encouraged to wear their school colors to school today. She said that the class with the most school spirit, the best decorated room, and a couple other categories would win prizes. I used some makeup to paint a paw on one cheek and "TS Wild Cats" on the other (she wanted to use Halloween makeup, but with our upcoming trip, I didn't want to chance a bunch of pimples from it!). I also used black and yellow hair spray for just a little more spirit!

"W" for "Wild Cats!" Duh!

Being Silly.

Proud of her hair.

All week Ethan's school had different dress up categories. Today was the only day Ethan wanted to participate. It is "Crazy Day." He originally wanted to do the old man haircut like last year, but again, with our tip...I didn't want to shave his head completely bald. So, I suggested we still do an old man, but with a tucked in shirt, rolled up pants, old man socks, and spray his hair white. We got to the hair and he decided he wanted to be a nerd instead. So I made him a pocket protector to finish the look.

He plays a nerd so well... :-)

Just before leaving for school, one side of his $2 glasses broke. Had to fix it with tape. Perfect!

Pumpkin Night!

2011-11-04T07:00:00.000-05:00

Every year the elementary schools around here have a pumpkin night a couple weeks before Halloween. They sell pumpkins for really cheap, and provide tons of paint and other art supplies to paint the pumpkins. I think we have gone just about every year! It was kind of weird this year going without Ethan! Natalie seemed fine with it, finding several friends to talk to and sit by.

Working on her pumpkin.

Showing off her work to a friend.

Yup, even without Ethan, she's still silly!

Natalie's finished pumpkin wearing a lovely hat (with flower) and plaid dress.

Natalie even made a little purse out of a decoration, felt, and chain she found! (It was obviously for the pumpkin...

Smarty Update

2011-11-03T09:32:00.000-05:00

Monday evening Roby and I talked to Ethan more about his decision not to move into advanced math. I kept reassuring him that there would be people to help him catch up and to learn the harder areas. Finally, Roby said, "Will Mr. S be your teacher in advanced math?"

Ethan: "Yes."

Roby: "Then he knows you are moving up, that it will be harder for you at first, and will help you."

Ethan: "Oh. I hadn't thought of that."

And then his determination not to move up wavered. When I tucked him in, I helped him create a pro/com list for moving up. In the end, several of his pros overrode the cons...and he had two cons compared to eight pros. The one I love the most: "I will be proud of myself for taking a harder class."

He asked Mrs. S yesterday if he could still move up. Mr. S gave him a little bit of a hard time as Ethan kept changing his mind, but today or tomorrow he'll be in advanced math!

I know this probably isn't worthy of two posts, but I'm SO proud!!!

Halloween

2011-11-02T07:00:00.000-05:00

I don't know how it happened, but both kids decided they wanted to be zombies for Halloween this year! Natalie had the whole outfit, while Ethan wanted some fake cuts on his face and to use some old clothes that had holes in them anyway. Roby had them fed by the time I got home from work, so all I had to do was face make-up and we were off! Typical me, PICTURES before I let Ethan run off with his friends! :-)

When we got outside, Natalie told Ethan to pose for the camera...

He did!

She started giggling when she realized the kinds of poses he was doing! So cute!

Take a picture when I'm in the air!

Eating braiiiiinnnnnsssss.

Then they decided to be creepy zombies!!!

After pictures, Ethan took off with some friends, Natalie and I headed out to trick-or-treat, and Roby stayed home to hand out candy.

Nat at the beginning of the evening.

At one point we walked right by Ethan. (I wasn't paying attention and didn't recognize him...) We chatted for a minute, the boys telling me they were having fun scaring people, then went on our seperate ways.

Natalie right before we got home. Still creepy and loving it!

Smarty

2011-11-01T07:28:00.002-05:00

Last week Ethan was invited to move up from regular math to advanced math. His math teacher told us at conferences that he wished his previous teacher would have put him in it to begin with. I was extremely happy when Ethan told me about it! At that point, though, Ethan said he didn't want to do it. He likes the math class he's in, he feels like he does really well, and wasn't sure he wanted to work harder to learn the advanced math. I told him I would support whatever he chose to do, but that I think the advanced math would be a great thing for him. Yesterday he told the teacher that he wanted to stay where he is. I'm kinda bummed, but trying not to let Ethan see it. He has so much potential. I always try to encourage (yet not push) him to live up to his potential...but he doesn't feel ready. Its ok, and I think I understand, I just wish he felt sure enough of himself to do it.

Videos

2011-10-28T07:00:00.000-05:00

The next pictures I have are at Nathan's house. (There are LOTS of pictures from Nathan's house...) As I was going through pictures I found a few videos that I couldn't help but want to share.

Natalie catching her first fish!!!

Ethan and Natalie caught fish at the same time! They caught more than everyone else put together that day!

During our fourth or fifth trip to the WW skate park, Ethan wanted me to take video of the first time he dropped in on the "high part." I love how nervous he was and how he worked himself up to do it! I'm also extremely proud that he actually did it! (I know I wouldn't have!)

Nick and Fam

2011-10-27T07:00:00.000-05:00

As most of you know, we don't go back to Washington very often, so when we do, we try to see as many friends and family as possible! We were able to spend an afternoon and evening with Nick and his family. It was a blast!

Natalie and Kayley finding something to do at the park.

Nick's mom, Karri, brought hoola-hoops. The boys decided to try them out.

This makes me giggle every time I watch it.

Ice Burg And Sleep

2011-10-26T07:00:00.000-05:00

Another place we HAD to go to while in Walla Walla was Ice-Burg. Another Mmmmmmmmmmm I think we went twice...

Despite the look on her face, Natalie enjoyed her shake!

Ethan wore himself out many times after playing at parks, skating, or just running around. This was not the only time we found him in a position like this:

Skate Park (Hmmm...)

2011-10-25T07:00:00.000-05:00

I'm pretty sure I posted most of these pictures, but it was faster to post them again rather than look back and see which ones I already posted. So, a few repeats, a few I didn't post. This was Ethan's first time at a skate park. I was impressed with how brave he was!

Natalie wasn't having as much fun as Ethan at first, but she ended up finding flowers to pick and places to run around after our long road trip!

Learning to drop in.

Farley watching from the shade of a tree.

He was smiling most of the afternoon!

I love these pics of Natalie, especially now that she has her braces off. Such a sweet smile!

He asked almost every day we were in Walla Walla to go back!

First Days Of Summer Trip 2011

2011-10-24T07:00:00.000-05:00

Here are a couple pictures from the beginning of our SUMMER ADVENTURE!!!

Natalie and Farley love each other, even in a tiny car.

Ethan kept himself entertained with listening to music a lot of the trip.

I actually drove a few hours here and there, not nearly as much as Roby, but I tried! CHEESE!

Loving life on our long journey in our tiny car.

See, headphones.

MOUNTAINS!!! We don't see those in Nebraska.

One of the first places we ate while in Walla Walla was El Sombrero...mmmmmmmmmmmmmm

Kind of random, but while in Walla Walla, Roby took us to his grandparents grave. I thought it was cool as I hadn't been there before. And I love his middle name, Morton, after his grandpa.

I'm on a roll, more pictures to come!

Last Day of Sixth Grade - Part One.Two

2011-10-23T07:00:00.000-05:00

As a end of sixth grade present, I got tickets to see Foo Fighters for Ethan and me. It may have been more for me, I love Foo Fighters, but I thought it would be a great first concert for Ethan! The concert was actually the night before his last day of school, which was good timing as we left for Washington the day after they got out of school!

The first band is hardly ever anyone you've heard of before, and is often loud rather than good...Earplugs help!

Ethan and me! :-)

Several pics from the show:

We were pretty darn close! Seemed much closer than the pictures look.

I think he had a great time at his first concert! I know I did!

Last Day Of Third and Sixth Grades - Part Two

2011-10-22T07:00:00.000-05:00

Every year on the kids' last day of school I give them a little something. This usually consists of summer toys or books. Exciting, I know. This year we told them we had something bigger.

While Natalie was waiting, Roby took her Puppy and hid it. She attempted to wait patiently to get it back...although she wasn't thrilled about it.

We had them sit on the couch, gave them each a box to open...here's what happened:

Natalie was a wee bit excited!!!

Ethan didn't seem as excited, but I know he was! She was crying and smiling SO big!

Roby was excited too!

It was fun telling them the day before we left! Natalie had been talking to me about Disneyland for months, and wondered if we could go next summer, or the year after. I told her over and over that I didn't think we'd be able to, but maybe in a couple summers. I think that's what shocked her the most! I kept tell her her no and all along I planned for us to go! Gotta love being a mom sometimes!

Honesty

2011-10-21T17:00:00.000-05:00

Today Natalie and I went shopping for a new winter jacket for her. After looking at Target and not finding much in her size, we headed to her favorite clothing store, Justice. She wants to go in there constantly! We only go a couple times a year, because its a bit more pricey than Target/etc. BUT, I found a 40% off coupon, so I was game! We ended up getting her a cute black coat big enough to hopefully last some of next winter as well.

After leaving Justice, we headed to Clair's to take a look around (her second favorite store!). When we got into the car, Natalie said, "Oooo Mom, did you buy me these friendship rings?! Thank you!" I had no idea what she was talking about. I told her it probably fell into her bag when she bumped into one of the racks at Clair's. She then said,

"Can we pleeease take it back!? I don't want to steal it, even if it was an accident!"

I drove her back to the store, she ran inside and gave it back. I was so proud!

Last Day of Sixth Grade - Part One.One

2011-10-21T07:00:00.000-05:00

On the last day of sixth grade, the school has a graduation ceremony. They invited all the parents, siblings, and any other family members that could make it. The sixth grade band played a couple songs, the principle and teachers spoke, and a couple kids gave speeches about their experiences throughout elementary school.

Because Ethan didn't want to play in the band, him and a couple others sat in the front row while the others played.

Yup, those are the best pictures I have of him...he kept turning around to look at us, but just as I took the picture he would turn back.

One of Ethan's best friends, Ethan, giving his speech.

Ethan's teacher handing out a certificate and DVD of the sixth grade slide show.

SO stinking happy! I LOVE his smile!

A bunch of girls were taking a picture, so Ethan and his friends decided to get in on the action.

Ethan and Ethan.

(Two of the shortest kids in their grade...)

He wanted a close-up.

Even closer...

Ethan and his teacher. I think she is my favorite teacher of Ethan's so far!

Last Day Of Third And Sixth Grades - Part One

2011-10-20T07:00:00.000-05:00

Now that the kids are in their third month of fourth and seventh grades, maybe I should post their last day of third and sixth?!

Ethan was a TAD excited for his last day in elementary school (I still don't understand only having seventh and eighth in one school, I don't think I ever will.) He had a hard time standing still for me to take a few (aka a LOT) pictures.

I love his smile! :-)

Natalie was a little more clam... So sweet!

Getting them to take a decent picture together was quite tricky...

She was trying to smile nicely... One of the better pictures of the morning.

These two crack me up! I love Natalie's eyebrows...its says it all! Ethan's smile is actually genuine too!

Being silly again!

Being silly together. :-)

Easter 2011

2011-10-19T07:00:00.000-05:00

I don't think I posted these pictures before, because they were still in my "Blog Pics" folder (I try to move them as soon as I post them). If I did, sorry for the repeat!

Natalie drew a HUGE peace sign on our driveway. :-)

Getting ready to start their treasure hunt for their Easter baskets. Ethan can always make Nat laugh!

Reading their first clue.

Finding more clues.

He had to give Roby a hug. Awww

Digging in. Farley REALLY wanted to help!

When they emptied their baskets, it was time to hunt for some eggs!

Ethan found the GOLDEN EGG!

He was very proud of his find! I think that was the first time in four years that he was the one who found it!

Three posts in a row, lets see if I can keep it going! ;-)

Museum And Award

2011-10-18T09:18:00.000-05:00

As of today, I have no rhyme or reason for what pictures I'm adding. I opened my folder called "Blog Pics" and started selecting. I think it would make more sense if I continued with our summer trip, but this works too. Here are some pictures from APRIL!

Natalie's Girl Scout troop went to a local museum (they go every year), to learn various things and do activities. I honestly don't remember if she/we stayed the night this year. Ugh, that's why I need to blog more frequently! :-)

Here are a few pictures of her doing activities:

I think the girls enjoyed the "old style" classroom the best! They thought the desks were cool, and there were medical students there teaching them about health, blood, and blood pressure.

Natalie answering a question.

Getting her blood pressure taken.

In the conference room they learned about various ways to exercise. As they went to each station, they had books marked like a passport.

Later that day, Ethan received an award for a drawing he did at school. The contest had a bird theme, and only a few students from his school received awards.

Standing by his picture.

All of the pictures were displayed so we could walk around and see them. Natalie was obviously having a lot of fun!

Waiting for his name to be called.

Standing with other award recipients in his category.

What did you get?!

A sketch book, some nice colored pencils and a ribbon!

Its amazing to me how differently they both look in the six months since I took these pictures. Yet another reminder that i need to keep up on the blogging so you all won't be as shocked when I post pictures once every three to six months! :-)

Busy Life

2011-10-14T08:52:00.000-05:00

I was talking to my grandma yesterday and she reminded me that I haven't posted anything on my blog for a long time. I'm sorry for that! After returning from our summer trip, I thought life would calm down. It turns out that life seems crazier now than it ever did before! The kids are loving their activities.

Ethan just finished with school football, but is taking bass guitar lessons every Tuesday. He wants me to take a video of how well he's doing to post on here this weekend. He is doing great and practicing almost every day. His teacher told him that after a few more lessons he'll be able to start learning songs! This got him even more excited and he's been practicing even more! He has adjusted to middle school nicely. It was a bit overwhelming at first, but seems to have it all under control now. He even brought his grade up from a B- to a solid B in one of his classes!

Natalie is still in Girl Scouts. This year she moved up from being a Brownie to being a Junior (I have pictures of that ceremony, but haven't posted them, obviously). She seems to be having more fun with it as they are working towards a goal rather than random little things every week. She is also taking ballet/tap lessons every Wednesday. She is loving that as well! Every week when she gets out of class she is jumping up and down and telling me all about it. When I get out of work I head straight to her lessons, look through the one-way mirror, and try to write things down she is learning so she can practice at home. There are two kids (out of a total of five) who don't want to be there. They don't listen and don't try to do the dance moves. I'm hoping that if Natalie practices enough she'll be able to move up in January or next fall. We'll see.

Roby seems to be enjoying his job still. He's taking CLEP tests for college credits and will be taking a class or two pretty soon. He also starts hockey soon! I LOVE going to his games and can't wait!

I'm still working two days a week and taking 12 credit hours. One of my classes is a fast pace class and will be done on Monday! Then only three classes the rest of the semester! Woo hoo! I'm thinking of taking "adult ballet" at Natalie's dance studio. I think it would be a lot of fun and a good exercise opportunity. I would NOT perform! haha I miss dancing, but don't know if I have enough time right now.

Hopefully in the next few weeks I'll find the time to finish posting our summer trip pictures and all the other ones I have waiting to post! For now, here is a picture of Natalie this morning. It is hippy day at her school. We made the shirt this summer, and she chose the rest of her outfit. You can't really tell in the pic, but we also flat-ironed her hair. She was VERY proud of her outfit!

Crazy Summer

2011-08-22T12:08:00.000-05:00

This summer went by so quickly! I still have tons of pictures to go through from our month long trip. I was trying to keep up as we went, but got overwhelmed by the thousands of pictures and video to sort through. When Roby and I got back to Nebraska, we both started our new jobs. The kids stayed with Gma Harris (MeMa) for five weeks and had a blast! They learned how to swim, hung out with lots of family, and had tons of stories when they got home. Roby went to Texas for five weeks for training. From the time he left and the time that the kids got home overlapped by almost three weeks. This was literally the first time in my life I have lived alone for more than one night. It was weird. I had lots of time, and did not use it wisely! :-) I read lots and watched random shows I wouldn't have watched otherwise.

As of now, the kids are in their second week of fourth and sixth grades. Ethan had his first school dance on Thursday last week. He said he hung out with friends, but didn't dance. He is trying out for his school football team today after school and will start bass guitar lessons on Thursday. Natalie starts Juniors (Girl Scouts) on Wednesday and dance in another couple weeks.

I went to my bachelorhood degree completion orientation on Thursday and Friday last week. Classes start today. Most people doing this take classes part time because they are all online and most people are working full time as well. I'm now only working two to three days a week, so I'll be taking four classes this semester. Hopefully I can handle it all. We'll see! I'm going to try to finish this degree in four semesters instead of six to eight. Again, we'll see...

For the most part, that's about it. I still want to go through pictures and finish posting for our summer trip and other things since then...but life has been busy.

Fremont Troll And Ferry Ride

2011-07-03T10:00:00.030-05:00

On the way to Roby's moms, we decided to see the "Fremont Troll" in Seattle. I've wanted to see it for years (especially because it was on "10 Things I Hate About You"), but we never got around to it. We figured it would be easier to go a bit out of our way that day, rather than try to make another trip to Seattle a different day. We parked a ways away, then walked around trying to find it. We finally asked someone where it was, they told us (seeming a bit annoyed). The kids thought it was really cool!!!

Ethan started climbing immediately!

Hi Mom!

"Look! I'm pick its nose!"

Natalie need a little help, but she got up there too!

OH NO!!! It has Ethan!

Our extra photographer, Ethan, took a pic of Roby and me.

I took this picture near where we parked. I love the Seattle area!

After leaving Seattle (not on the highway, which was much faster!), we headed to the ferry that would take us to Roby's moms. Natalie was REALLY excited to see the water and ferries!

This was one of Farley's regular resting spots. I'm not sure why he does this...maybe to feel like he's closer to us??? Its funny though!

The beautiful Northwest!

SUPER excited!

It as quite windy!

Natalie and me on the front of the ferry.

The kids looking out at the water.

Where Roby's mom's and grandma's houses are.

One of my favorite pictures of the trip! He kept telling Nat to look at something, and she couldn't find it. After three or four tries, he grabbed her and pointed! :-)

We had Ethan take a picture of us, and I took one with my phone...the one I took turned out a little better for some reason. I think our smiles are better. :-)

Roby posing for the camera!

Then laughing about it! :-)

We got to his mom's in time for a YUMMY dinner made by his little sister!

More pictures to come!

Great Grandpa and Grandma

2011-06-30T10:00:00.029-05:00

We were able to see my grandparents a couple time while we were in Walla Walla. I always wish its more, but we saw someone for almost every lunch and dinner the six days we were there. I forgot to take pictures the first time, so was sure to when we were there a little longer.

Natalie and I helped grandma make junk-dish for dinner (its a vegetarian meal that I remember eating quite often when we were together).

Roby caught me cutting up the potatoes.

Grandma, Grandpa, Natalie, me, Roby, and Ethan.

My grandparents! :-)

After pictures, Grandpa took the kids out to their garden to see how the radishes were doing. Apparently well enough to harvest some! (I love all their bums in the air!)

Grandpa showed them how to know when they were ready.

Natalie was VERY excited when grandpa told her she could keep the ones she picked!

Ethan was too! (They ate all of them by the next day!)

Washing them off.

After leaving their house, we stopped by Roby's uncles house. (He's older than all of my grandparents!) It was fun chatting for a bit, and the kids had fun looking at their garden!