Another Day at Disney

Yesterday we took Aunt Heidi, Mallorey, and Logan to Disneyland. I picked you up from Jen Jen's, we picked them up and we were off. We went to California Adventure first and played in Brother Bear's forest. You were a little scared to walk across some of the bridges, but you were pretty brave. Then we went over to Bug's Life and you went on a few rides. We had soooo much fun, until I told you that you couldn't go on the bumper cars.....
(Darn, I thought we were going to skip those terrible 2's) After you settled down and realized that it wasn't the end of the world, we headed out. The parade was just starting as we were leaving so we stayed and watched it. It was really cute. You got to see a lot of your favorite people; Nemo, Monster(Sully, from Monsters Inc), Lightning McQueen, Mader,and many more. After the parade we walked over to Disneyland and ventured to your favorite, Pirates of the Caribbean." I thought you might do better than the last time. WRONG!!! I'm not sure what is more awesome; your face as we were going down the drop, or the nasty booger that's in your nose:) We went on a few more rides there, had some dinner and then headed over to Fantasy Land, so you could go on the Merry-Go-Round. You love that thing and would stay on it all day if you could. Next we headed over to your second favorite ride, It's a Small World. I think the video sums it up..
It was getting close to firework time, and we noticed the Finding Nemo line wasn't very long, so we got in it. It was about a 30 minute wait, and you were pretty good the whole time. While we were getting close, I felt my hand get really warm. We were just about to the front and I wasn't about to get out of line for a little pee. Plus, it never bothers you anyway. So I left you wet and we braved the submarine. The firewoks started right as we were up front, so we got a pretty good show. Little did I know that you would be putting on your own show for the whole submarine. Right as we took off, I saw that look in your eye.... Yep - the push it out look. I couldn't believe it - you pooped right as we started the 15 minute submarine ride.. I felt sooooo sorry for everyone around us. Hopefully they didn't get the whiff that I was blessed with having the whole time. All I know is Mallorey handed me your small bottle of powder and I just started pouring it down the crack :) We all survived and enjoyed the ride as much as possible. Here is a picture of you three (pre-poop) in line.


After that, we decided to stop for some prizes and then headed home. You were a very good girl and are lucky to have such wonderful cousins that look after you and love so much. I hope you had fun. Love you.

Sunday Funday

Today you woke up and had 2 waffles for breakfast. You scarfed down every bite too. After breakfast, we all got dressed and headed over to grandma and grandpa's house because I had to pick up a cabinet that was at their house. So, we hung out there for a while, cleaning, playing, and snacking and before I knew it you were in the pool. It was a hot day and grandma decided she needed a break so you two took a dip. This was our first day in the pool this summer and you loved it. You were a little scared at first, but after a few "Let's go to the movies" you were ready to go. You fell asleep on the way home which gave me and Daddy just enough time to get everything organized and put away. After your long nap, we played for a little bit and then decided we needed to go out for dinner. We couldn't decide where to go, but we knew one thing... You wanted sghetti!!!! We ended up at our local Spoons and had a nice dinner. You loved every bit of your sghetti, but especially loved the ice cream sundae that came with the kid's meal. :) How rude it was of me to interrupt you and your sghetti!!!
After you made me put the camera away, I snuck a few cute shots of you enjoying your dinner.
You are soooo funny! Thanks for not only a great Sunday, but an awesome weekend.

Soaked Saturday

Today we headed back to Sea World for Day 2. We had a great night, which ended around 10 when we watched the fireworks from our hotel balcony :) After waking up this morning, and having some yummy pancakes, we lathered up with sunblock and headed out.


Yesterday we did pretty much everything, except see the most famous attraction.... Shamu.
So that was our first stop.




We got there a little early and found some seats about 4 rows up from the floor.

Man, they don't call it the Soak Zone for nothing, that's for sure. All three of us were completely drenched by the time we got out of there. Thank goodness it was a hot day. After Shamu, we went and checked out the Clydesdale horses and then went over to the Wild Arctic. Here we saw Beluga Whales, polar bears, and a huge walrus.

It was awesome. Next we stopped and watched the Pets show. You loved watching the dogs, cats, birds, pig, ducks, etc... performing all their tricks. I am just amazed at how those trainers are able to do it. Wish they could give me some pointers for you:) Just kidding. Well, after that show we stopped back at the Bay of Play because I wanted to see if you would adventure into the water. You were VERY hesitant at first but before we knew it you were having a blast....




Here you are after getting it right in the face:)

"Why are these kids in my way," might have been what you were thinking

After the fun in the water, we started to head for the exit. We stopped and bought a Shamu snow globe (we have been buying a snow globe everytime we take you on a trip), and as we were leaving we ran into the one, the only......

SHAMU!!!

You waved goodbye, and said, "Peace Out" to the polar bear that followed him:)

It didn't take but 10 minutes after strapping you in the car for you to crash. You slept just about the entire ride back.

I hope you had a fun 2 days, french fry. I know I had a great time. I'm so glad we had the chance to go. Thanks Daddy.

Let me outta here

We told you that this sea otter was saying hello, but I bet he was really saying, "Let me outta here."

Firework Friday

Today after I got home from work, we loaded up the car and headed to San Diego. This was your's and Daddy's first trip to Sea World, and I was about 6 the last time I went. So, needless to say, we were all very excited to go. We went straight to Sea World, parked and started the fun off right.... with a ride. You and I went on the gliding eel and boy was that fun.

While we were waiting, Elmo and his friends came out, danced and sang for everyone. It was a great time filler while we were waiting in line. You had a lot of fun on the ride and you even put your hands up like the big kids in front of us. It was already a great start.
After the ride we explored a little bit and found ourselves in front of a bunch of penguins at feeding time. They were soooo cute. You loved them the most, I think.


Then it was time for our first show... the Dolphin Discovery. We had really good seats, but we didn't get wet. You were amazed at those high flying animals, and so were we.








I'm not sure exactly what we did after that, but the rest of the day/night consisted of the acrobat show, the Sea Lion show (my favorite), some flamingos, turtles, and sea otters, not to mention a yummy dinner and a special churro (your first). We watched the night time dolphin show, which included many tricks, fireworks and cool pyrotechnics. After that we were all pooped (especially me and Daddy)

So instead of staying for the fireworks, we headed to the car and went to the hotel. I hope you had a fun first day at Sea Wrold french fry. I love you. Let's get some sleep so we can do it all again tomorrow.

Shamu, here we come

Tomorrow after I get off from summer school, we are driving down to San Diego to see Shamu. Daddy got us tickets for Mother's Day so we are going to spend 2 days at Sea World. I hope you have a great time, french fry. I'm really excited to go and I know it's going to be a nice little getaway. Love you and thanks Daddy.

Off puter!!

Yesterday after I picked you up from Jen Jen's we did a little shopping. Mainly some basics, but a few fun things too (things for your birthday party). When we got home we noticed Daddy was already home. He cam ehome a little early, so we played all evening. then I regretfully told you I would take you on a walk in a little while. Well, clearly, a little while to you means, RIGHT NOW!! Daddy helped you get your shoes on and put a sweatshirt on you. I thought I had a good 15 minutes before you were ready and the next thing I knew you were telling me, "Off puter. Off puter." I guess that meant I had to get off the computer. It was so cute, you kept pulling my pants trying to get me up. So off we went. We walked around the block once and then decided to do it again. By the time I got half way around the second time, I noticed you had fallen asleep. Oh great, I though. It's only 7:15.... Daddy's going to kill me. We got home and I took you out of the stroller, laid you down and told Daddy that I would get you up in a little while because there was no way you were going to sleep all night (especially in your clothes, without a diaper change) So 8:00 came, 8:30 came, So you think you can dance was on, and I completely forgot to wake up up. Amazingle enough, you slept all night. When I went in there at 6:30, you calmly woke up and started laughing. You were ready to go. I still can't believe you slept that long, but I am happy that you got all the rest you needed. I love you french fry. Hope you are having fun at Jen Jen's. See you soon.

Disney pics

How rude

Your cousin, Logan, taught you this nice little saying at grandm's house.
Let's hope you forget it quickly :) Love you.

Father's day fun... and not so fun

Today started off wonderful... you slept in til 8:30 :) After waking up, and giving Daddy his presents, we headed next door for a yummy breakfast that we made for Daddy and Uncle Mark. While we were there I noticed something funky about your earring and after examining a little closer, I noticed that the prong that holds the diamond (or should I say cubic zirconia) was inside your earring hole. I'm assuming you pushed it in since you constantly play with your ears when you are sleepy. Needless to say it was not pleasurable for anyone within 10 miles to have to hear you scream as I tried to get it out. Luckily, we got it out and vowed to not those back in. Your ear is a little infected now, but at least it is out. After that ordeal, you took a well needed and deserved nap.
Then we headed over to grandma and grandpa's for our father's day celebration.
You had a lot of fun playing with the kids all day. The three older ones were in the pool most of the time, so you and Hailee figured out a way to entertain yourselves...

Texting already.... what is this world coming to?? hahaha you were actually playing or trying to play video games (but I'm sure you had no clue what you were doing)
Before dinner we decided to pull out the Sno-Cone machine and all you cousins had a yummy Sno-Cone

Grandma made a delicious and nutricious dinner for everyone and due to the fact that you probably ate a million grapes before dinner you really didn't eat much. In fact, you even threw a mini tantrum, kicked your plate which sent your food all over grandma's house. Fun times...
Surprisingly enough, you did manage to be in good spirits when it was time for dessert. Funny how that always happens..


So after dessert and about 3 or 4 more timeouts for throwing food, hitting others and talking back we decided to head home where we encountered your biggest meltdown of your life. Daddy was trying to give you a bath and you were screaming bloody murder. I know you were exhausted from such a fun day, so we got you out, put on your jammies and within 10 minutes of watching Madagascar, you were out. Sleep well, french fry. I love you very much. Happy Father's Day Daddy.

Congrats to Cousin Aaren and Robert

Tonight we went...
to celebrate the engagement of your cousin Aaren and her new fiance Robert. You had a lot of fun with everyone. You met a lot of new people and a few new kids too. You loved playing with the rocks and following Cameron around. Overall, it was a great evening and we are sooooo excited for cousin Aaren and Robert. We know they are going to have a lifetime full of great memories.
Here is Aaren (in the middle, with her dad and sister Mia)

I just couldn't resist posting this face....

Here are you and Cameron trying to figure out what to do with all those rocks.

Congrats and thanks for inviting us to the party.

Happy Birthday Cici

Sorry we can't make your party today, but we'll see you tomorrow. Have a great day, we'll be there in spirit. Love you

Sorry mama

This morning as you were eating your breakfast (scrambled eggs) you decided to squeeze your milk out of your straw and had a nice little puddle on your tray. After screaming, "Mama, where are you" (I was trying to use the restroom) I discovered your little mess. I asked you what happened, and you said, "Sorry, mama. I make mess." It was the cutest thing. I couldn't even get mad :) Love you french fry.

Donut Shop

This morning I had the hardest time waking you up. You just would not budge.. That is, of course, until I said, "If you get up, we can go get a donut." Your eyes popped open so fast I started cracking up. So after I got you dressed me and you headed out to the donut shop near our house. You were soooo excited to see all those donuts at your eye level. We sat and shared half of a donut and then we took the rest over to Jen Jen's house. I had so much fun with you at the donut shop.
You had to get all dressed up because today was Tori's 6th grade promotion and Jen Jen was going to take you with her. Here's how cute you were...


After I dropped you off at Jen Jen's, I went to my last day of this school year. I am teaching summer school, so I still have a few weeks, but the bulk of it is over. My days will be shorter which means more fun days with you. Well, thanks for a memorable last day of work french fry. I love you.

It's Gross

Sunday morning after we woke up we went outside to play and you discovered something not very pleasant on your slide..
Love you

Champions

Today we went over to grandma and grandpa's to watch the Lakers win the NBA Championship. Grandma had the backyard all decorated and you had a lot of fun with Mallorey and Logan.





Love you french fry.

So busy

Boy have we been busy this week. I used to pride myself on posting something every day or at least every other, but this week has been CRAZY!!! Between Laker parties, school functions and life in general I forgot all about this thing. Sorry french fry!! Luckily nothing major has happened this week as far as you are concerned. Daddy took you to the Dr. on Wed to have your hemoglobin checked again and she said it looks good and that you no longer need to be on your iron supplement :) The funny part is, you actually liked the medicine and last night you evern asked for it :)

I love my Daddy

Btw... I'm 21 months old today :)

Go Lakers

Tonight grandma, grandpa, Uncle Mark, Aunt Netty, Hailee, Hunter and Uncle Dean all came over to watch the Laker game. Grandma made yummy meatball sandwiches and spaghetti for all of us. It was soooo delicious. You and Hailee were both very good girls. I love that you are getting old enough to play nice with her most of the time. You still have your moments, but for the most part, you're pretty good. You were also very patient with the game on. You wanted to watch your movie, but waited nicely until the game was over. After the game was over you kept saying, "Go Lakers" It was really cute. I guess daddy is brainwashing you already :) Love you, french fry.

In her shoes

Today you and cousin Hailee put on a fashion show for us. You were modeling Hailee's princess shoes and you two were so beautiful. Silly, but beautiful :)

Remember, you have an angel

Today I received some really sad news. I have a student named Timothy whose mom has been battling cancer for 6 years. Unfortunately, she lost her battle early yesterday morning. She was an amazing woman, poet, and mother and I am more than heartbroken over the news. She has 3 children, Timothy, Sierra-who was in my class 3 years ago, and Cody - 14 years old. Today, Timothy told me that he may not be acting sad, but he really is. He's just trying to be tough, because he knows that's what his mom would want :) He is a really bright student. Karen would attend every conference, back to school night, and every special event that the children had, even being pretty much wheelchair bound. In Timothy's most recent story, he named his mom as his hero. And I can see why as she was more than amazing. A few months ago, she sent me a few of her amazing poems and for today's blog I just want to share one of them and hope that anyone who reads it will not only find her writing as amazing as I do, but will really take the time to appreciate their own loved ones each and every day.
You will be missed, Karen.

Remember, you have an angel

When feelings of lost hope

Hold troubled times in despair

Remember, you have an angel

Who will always be there.

When feelings of sadness

Seem overwhelming too

Remember, you have an angel

Holding a smile just for you

When it seems no one else

Could possibly care

Isolated from the world

Life seems so unfair

You feel no one else

Could possibly feel like you do

Remember, you have an angel

Who will always get you through

The love they hold is endless

As much as it is true

I know I have an angel -

My angel must be you.

- Karen Elizabeth Willis-