Riding a two-wheeler

Halle learned to ride a two-wheeler bike today with NO training wheels. Her friend Ellie taught her how to put her feet and pedals so she could start on her own so she practiced all morning and by night she was riding up and down the sidewalk. She has found a new love for the summer because now she can be part of the big kids and ride and race with them.

Ear piercing

Halle got her ears pierced in Arizona as her souvenior of the trip. That is all she wanted and so we asked Daddy if it was okay for her to get them done. He was sad because he thought a little bit of her innocence was lost. She was a trooper and did not cry. Surprise!!

Road Trip to Arizona

We decided to take a road trip to Phoenix, Arizona to relax and stay in one of Padres condos. We had a 12 hour drive ahead of us but as long as we had redbox DVDs, food and sippies - we were okay! We took 2 days to get there so that made it even better.

The first major stop was the Grand Canyon. The kids couldn't believe how deep it was. It was beautiful - now we know why it is a major wonder of the world.

Once we arrived in Arizona we had fun playing in the pool, seeing family members, shopping, golfing and eating. I swear we came away 5 pounds heavier but I think vacations do that to a body. I couldn't wait for a home cooked meal.

The kids could have lived in the pool. Austin's confidence in swimming has grown so much since last year. It was fun to see him move past some of his water fears. They loved just playing with each other and any other kid that was in the pool and would play.

But one of the highlights of the trip was visiting Grandma Hubbard's grave. We took her new silk flowers (because nothing real lasts more than a day in Arizona heat) and cleaned up her gravestone. Before we left on the trip Halle and Austin had colored a picture for her that they wanted to leave with her. When one of Halle friends asked her why she would take a picture to her dead Grandma, Halle just responded "My Grandma will know it is there." I truly believe that she is right and she will love it.



Overall the trip was a success and everyone survived. But best of all we had a great time together enjoying every minute of our Daddy being with us.

Jett is TWO - I can't believe it.

How time passes by so fast these days. My baby is TWO already. He loves trains so of course his birthday was centered around that. This train is an automatic one that goes around and around and he plays for hours. Whatever to keep him busy while Mom gets the chores done.


Jett and his brother and sister. He loves them so much. Jett and Halle hug and kiss each other every night before bed. It is so sweet. They truly love each other and have enjoyed spending time together.


Jett blowing out the candles on his cake. He knew what his birthday was about ... presents, cake and more presents. He loved every minute of it. He is such a joy to our family and makes us laugh eveyday.