The Wenning Family

Davis is 1 year old --- January 31!!

2012-02-08T11:52:00.000-08:00

Oh My!! Davis is 1 year old! Where did the year go?

It has been fun to think back over the year and especially how the weather was this time last year-we were snowed into the hospital and this year the weather is a beautiful 70 degree day.

Where do we even begin with this last month before 1...Davis is WALKING!!! He is all over the place and loving it. It is so precious to see his little Frankenstein walk, his wobbly little legs, and the grin on his face as he moves around on his own.

Week 48 pictures above were taken the day before we found out he had a really bad ear infection. This is the first one we have ever had with both boys and we feel for the little guy and the pain he was in. You would never know from the pictures, except his blanket is really close by and helped him through a few hard times.

Davis LOVES balls, he either has one in his hands, mouth, kicking, or throwing. He is like a magnet to balls and has one in close proximity at all times.

Davis is also pointing but he points with a fist and bent fingers. It is pretty cute!

We had an off week with pictures--just wanted to include what the majority of the pictures looked like this week.

Our little 1 year old!! He is 31 inches long (90%) and 22 pounds 10 oz (50%). Ironically the same size as Caleb at 1 year old. Still can't believe Davis is 1!!! He is in the process of dropping his morning nap (sad!) and LOVES any and all food! Such a good eater!

EVERYTHING goes in Davis' mouth-he has quite a big mouth. This is a golf ball, don't worry he was monitored with it. But, we do have to be careful for the interesting things he finds and puts in his mouth.

This is the conclusion of our Monday pictures and monthly posts! We love you, Davis, and are blessed you are in our family! Happy Birthday Little Guy!

January 2012

2012-02-01T12:05:00.000-08:00

January was a relaxing month-not many of our normally scheduled activities picked up for a few weeks, so we were able to set up our own list of events. Here is a snap shot of our month:

Daddy and Davis watching Caleb ride his scooter in the front yard

Davis constantly has things in his mouth, I love when he walks or crawls with a ball in his mouth. Or when he is trying to figure out how to carry everything he wants he usually sticks something in his mouth to help ease the load.

Davis LOVES clapping his hands

Our playgroup went to the zoo one beautiful Friday morning. I love the boys looking at the lions (Elliott, Caleb, Brooks, and Lowell)

Davis loved his first trip to the zoo

I had to include this picture--Davis is pointing at some animals at the zoo but he does it with a pointer/fist thing. Too cute!

We have had SO many beautiful days this January we spent a LOT of time at the park. Davis (like Caleb) doesn't like the swing but I was able to snap a quick picture to show that I tried.

Another day at the park

Rock Jumping

A wobbly rock they had fun jumping on

We took some pictures of Davis for Julie's Alma Mater, University of Texas, magazine.

A new way to ride shotgun on Caleb's scooter

The ball and weasel in Davis' mouth

Caleb's ball ramp, a Pinterest find!

We remember when Caleb would sometimes sleep sitting up-precious!

A new way to wear a crown (it now has a nose guard)

Another park day-Davis LOVED walking around on his own!

Davis climbs and loves seeing things from a new angle

A buddy in our playgroup had a birthday party and here are 4 tired guys recharging with a Capri Sun. Didn't capture a picture of the birthday boy, Corban, but everyone had a blast at BounceU! What a fun place to party!

Davis is always throwing, kicking, picking up and chasing after balls!!!!

We went to JumpMania-Caleb loves these places

They had a great toddler area and Davis had fun too

Such a fun month and next month will be a fun birthday month for a certain 1 year old!

Our Circus went to the Circus

2012-01-23T11:39:00.000-08:00

We had a fun and exciting weekend!! We drove to Austin for Papa's birthday and we were blessed to be able to go to the circus for the first time. Great Mimi and her friend, Bob, are part of the Shriner's and they were gracious enough to get tickets for our entire "circus." All 14 of us had a blast, watching the wonderful show with incredible seats - center ring, eating hot dogs, and making some fantastic memories.

The crew ready as the circus is beginning

We weren't sure how Davis would do, but he did great, loved all the things to look at and only had to go walking 1 time.

Caleb LOVED it and is still talking about the elephants, the motorcycles jumping, and the overpriced light sabers

Faith fell asleep

Davis wants to join the circus!

A collage of the exciting acts: Tigers, Motorcycles on tight ropes, and elephants just to name a few

Our whole group (minus Uncle Willie, who was cut out)

Later that afternoon-we went to Mimi and Papa's for more fun, celebration, and eating fajitas. Papa's birthday cake of Angel Food and the grandkids helping him blow out the 6-5 candles.

Cousin Lisa, Aunt Karen, Uncle Gary, and Aunt Debbie also stopped by!

Eating their cake

Such a fun weekend and a TON of memories!

Christmas Card Photo Shoot

2012-01-08T19:31:00.000-08:00

Craig's sister, Aunt Kristin, has a big fancy camera and is always so willing to take our kiddos pictures come Christmas Card time. Here were the finalist and other cute ones that didn't make the cut:

An attempt of a family shot

This was the winner!

December 2011

2012-01-05T11:36:00.000-08:00

Here are the non-Christmas pictures from our month, about what we have been doing between the parties, the performances, the celebrations, the fun...

Caleb loves to hammer push pins into boxes.

Showing his great work

Who needs a walker when you have a laundry hamper

So many purposes for a fun laundry basket

There were a few snow flurries on our deck one cold morning

Sweet Brothers!

I saw this sweet quote on pinterest from Marc Brown

"Sometimes being a brother is even better than being a superhero"

Precious Boys!

A box from Christmas

Thanks Garcias for a fun jumpy ball-the whole family loves it!

One of Caleb's numerous "Costume Changes." A Dallas Cowboy Football Player (I may have been helping him pose! Too Cute!)

A police officer

"It's a bird! It's a plane! No! It's Superman!! Or is it Super Caleb!!!"

Helping Mommy hammer pretzels for a gift for the neighbors

Helping Daddy rake leaves

"Where is Caleb?"

"Here I am!"

Sweetness!

Here is a great picture after a fun Monday Photo Shoot with Davis! This is my Star Picture Wrangler-that helps Davis to smile and look at the camera! Crazy that we only have a few more weeks of Monday pictures!

What a fun December!!

11 months - December 31

2012-01-04T11:32:00.000-08:00

Can't believe this little man is almost 1! It just brings a tiny tear to my eye thinking how incredibly fast it has gone by. How truly precious life is and how truly precious the gift God gives us! We forgot to mention last month (or maybe two months ago) Davis began not only clapping (he has done that a while) but clapping on command. It is pretty cute! I am telling him to clap in the picture!

This month Davis went from monkey walking everywhere!!! To Monkey walking with one hand to standing on his own. He can go from squatting to pick something up to standing holding the object. Pretty good balance for a little guy!

We obviously had Davis' first Christmas! Which was so fun!

Also, you will notice in this weeks picture, a nice cute on Davis' face. Sadly, Julie's stubby little finger nails scratched him while picking him up.

The Monday Pictures even travel to Austin with us! I had a crew helping me this week!

Just a few days before Davis' 11 month birthday--he took a few steps!!!!! He started taking a few steps between Mommy and Daddy. Then he would take a few steps if he was holding something in his hands. He is on his way to walking!! Such a big boy growing up too fast!

The whole family is helping

Davis is one happy 11 month old that is soooo close to walking, so close to being weaned, so close to turning 1, so close to getting more teeth, and so much fun to come! Slow down last month as a "Baby!"

'Tis the Season to be Jolly

2012-01-03T10:57:00.000-08:00

Our little city of Richardson puts on quite the production the whole month of December outside of the public library. We managed to get up there and fight the crowds not once but twice!

Night #1: The Goal was to only take a picture with Santa

It was cold rainy night and we were probably the 10th person in line to see Santa!! Not bad! While we were waiting in line, we were able to see Santa arrive on a fire truck.

Still waiting for Santa but at least covered and practicing his smile-such a poser today!

Someone else is practicing too!

The Santa line weaves through a "Toy Factory"

Practice didn't make perfect this time...All the practicing of smiling did not pay off-they don't look happy. Poor guy!!

This is my favorite--Davis is looking at Caleb wondering why he is not crying!

A successful Night 1!

Night 2: Fight the crowds and let Caleb enjoy some of the village. They probably have 20 little houses set up for the kids to go in. There is a fire station, pet store, cookie shop, police station, news station, post office to mail a letter to Santa, ornament shop, Santa's reindeers, and more.

Caleb wasn't scared of the mascots walking around, except the Grinch. Here he is with Sparky and some cute random girl.

We did a lot of waiting

and waiting...Davis is ready for bed-it is almost 7 and the thumb is in his mouth. He is like clockwork and turns to a pumpkin at 7:00. He did great being patient and not getting to "do" anything fun-maybe next year!

Pretty Cool! Fireman jacket and helmet!

More waiting...

and being silly!

This is common...

Sitting on a "reindeer" saddle and taking home Reindeer food.

At the petting zoo

What fun memories that were made--Thanks to our great city!

Christmas in Austin

2012-01-02T13:35:00.000-08:00

Oh, the FUN we had this year!!! Where do we even begin...We were blessed enough to get to spend quite a bit of time with both sides of the family. Our time in Austin was so special for us all.

We got in on Thursday afternoon and went straight to Craig's parents. Everything was decorated so beautifully and Mammy thought of every little detail. Including Caleb's new favorite tradition for us to carry on next Christmas: The Magic Stocking. Instead of getting a pile of present on Christmas morning, they were spread out over the days we were there. The Magic Stocking had bells on it and would ring. Caleb would run to the stocking and see the first present and a note where to go look for the next present. Caleb would run all over the house looking for the next present, just laughing with joy. It was so fun to watch his delight! (Sorry for the picture quality- the iphone doesn't cooperate with fast moving objects)

The first day in the Magic Stocking was Buzz Lightyear themed things including this costume, pajamas, figures, and underwear. Such a cute idea-that we will have to take over next year!

MeDad and Caleb in their matching shirts

Friday we went to lunch with Great Mimi and Mimi-but Chick-fil-a is so crazy, I didn't get one picture. We then had the afternoon at Mimi and Papa's. Caleb and Mimi having some fun!

Davis enjoyed dressing up too!

Love that he is beginning to play by himself when we are not monkey walking

Magic Stocking on Friday night: Animal/Safari Theme

This is Sleepy Head-his new best friend!

A big floor puzzle

Saturday morning (Christmas Eve) we went to Georgetown for the Kreiger's Christmas. We always have a special visitor. Papa is the hero for the hour!

Oh, how excited this one was to see Papa dressed up

Santa with Bob, the birthday boy who is in 94 years old and in town for the week from Florida. Great-Mimi's "friend." Just love him!

Davis did better with the Jolly Man this time.

All the cousins with Santa-poor Faith wanted nothing to do with him

Sweet Cousins-they are like brothers!

Even have matching Marshmallow Shooters

Davis Sock Monkey hat for his birthday next month

Davis opening some presents too

Silly Craig

"Papa, that is not for you!"

Faith showing Great Mimi the cool keyboard

Two beautiful ladies

Absolutely stunning at the age of 91

"Team Lightyear" is what they call themselves

After leaving Georgetown we went to Mammy and MeDad's church for the Christmas Eve Service/Birthday party, then over to the Cowdens for Tamales. Davis is already in his Christmas pj's.

We had full intentions of having matching pj's opening Christmas presents, but we knew one of the two would have an accident or spill and sure enough they did-and Caleb had far too many other things to dress in than to stay in pj's. So, sad that this is the only picture we have of one of them in their cute Christmas jammies. (Maybe we will reenact it-or just wait until next year).

Magic Stocking on Christmas Eve: Woody/Cowboy theme! So fun!

Christmas Morning: Caleb woke up about 6:40 and went to the restroom, he went back to bed. We know he was in bed at 6:50 but when our alarm went off at 7:00-he was out by the tree opening his BIG present-a box of costumes. He had this Woody costume on without pants-kind of cute!

Woody pj's too

Davis playing with his new train

Watching the Buzz car zoom to MeDad

MeDad opening up his new bible-such a special gift this year!

The boys opening presents-Caleb picked out a bath toy for Davis

Playing portable air hockey

Spidey Woody

The Cowdens came over and enjoyed the afternoon together. The cousins were super kind and dressed up in Caleb's costume (no picture to show their sweetness) but Lucy was a Pet Doctor!

Aunt K10 playing games with Luke and Jack

Daddy dressing up

Davis playing with the Nativity Set

Playing in the birthday streamers

"Yee-Haw"

A little rest time on the couch

The beautiful table

Birthday cake for Jesus-yummy strawberry cake

So much fun with the blowers

After all the fun...Davis woke up from a nice long nap

Jack got a big boy bike and Luke and Lucy got these cool scooter things - so we were outside in the misty, cold rain-it didn't stop them!

Lucy is a little helper

Let the games begin-2 games going at the kitchen table

and Mouse Trap on the floor

Monday morning we PACKED our car and spent the night at Mimi and Papa's! So fun the memories that we made those few days with all the grandparents, Aunts, Uncles, and Cousins!

The beautiful tree at Mimi and Papa's house with all the nicely wrapped presents ready to be torn into.

Sweet Boy-always eating! Love how he often puts his little piggies on the tray (or he crosses his ankles)! Love Him So!

Thank you Mammy, MeDad, Mimi, and Papa for such a fun time, for a wonderful Christmas, for the great memories, and the quality time we all spent together.

Merry Christmas--Glory to God in the Highest!

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

2011-12-30T12:56:00.000-08:00

This is such a fun time of year! So many laughs, so many memories, so much to look forward to, and so many ways to celebrate Christ's birth! (Get ready for a few posts of our fun, fun month).

Craig with his co-leader, Jarrod, and Bobby at the Student Ministry Leaders Tacky Sweater Christmas Party on December 1st.

Our beautiful Christmas tree from none-other than Lowes. We planned on getting a little one to put up on a table away from Davis' grabbing hands but we changed our minds and he has surprised us all, he has not had a problem with touching, climbing, grabbing, pulling it down, etc.

A few Christmas Activities:

Fingerprint Manger

Caleb is decorating a cookie with a fun food marker!

We went to the Watermark's Building Block Christmas Party and had a blast, dancing, singing, eating, running around, and having a fun celebration!

This is beginning to be a common occurence-Caleb and Davis "wrestling" with eachother. Oh, the laughs!

Our attempt at a family picture!

Sad, that this is the only picture I took at our Church playgroup's Christmas Party but it was the only time that these few dozens kiddos were still long enough. Ms. Julia (ex-teacher) led our kids in a few adorable crafts!

We just love this time of year and the joy it brings!

Isaiah 9:6 "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. "

School Performance and Party

2011-12-29T12:40:00.000-08:00

In December, Caleb had his first program at School. The Preschoolers 3, 4, and 5 year olds performed some precious songs and recited scripture. Caleb's class (Chocolate Chips) and the Oreos got up to perform "Ring Those Bells" and "Christmas Bells" with of course, a bell in each hand! Then they recited Galatians 5:22-23. So cute they were! We didn't know how Caleb would do but he stayed up on stay and "performed" well!

Then the all the preschoolers got up and sang "Jesus Loves Me," Philippians 4:13, "Counting Rhyme," and "Today a Savior is Born" (some in Spanish)! Pretty impressive!

Waiting at Caleb's school performance. Love it!

Even though, Caleb did do well up on stage he did do something funny we just have to note...in between a few of their songs Caleb called out to us in the audience "Where's Davis?" Julie was feeding Davis a bottle, so he was held up over the crowd and Caleb yells "Hi, Davis"! Then went on singing...So precious!

A week later, Caleb's class had a Christmas party. They made a craft of little drums, read a story about a drummer boy, had lunch, and a cupcake for Jesus' birthday!

Listening to the story and getting to drum at the appropriate time.

Someone really enjoyed his cupcake!

"The Fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control." Galatians 5:22-23

A Meaningful Christmas Month

2011-12-19T12:00:00.000-08:00

Sorry, if you are seeing this for a second time...somehow it published itself before I was done. I deleted it almost immediately, but Google Reader still picked it up. Sorry!

During the month of November, we had a little arts and craft project in our home. We (Craig was a HUGE help) made 24 of the same ornament to then exchange them on November 29th with 23 other ladies. I was blown away by the creativity, thoughtfulness, time, and effort that each woman put into making, creating, designing their beautiful and unique ornament. We had some yummy treats and enjoyed a lovely evening!

Here is the table of the 576 beautiful ornaments

A close up on Alpha and Omega, The Trinity, Creation, and Love

Believe, Bethlehem, Promises, and Mary is Chosen

Trusting God, Immanuel, Having a Good Attitude, and No Room in the Inn

Born in a Manager, The Shepherds were Afraid, Go and Tell, and Wise Men

The Greatest Gift, The Word, The Good Shepherd

The Vine, The Light of the World, The Bread of Life

The Way/The Truth/The Life, and the Lamb of God

Kristin, the wonderful hostess that organized all of this and the great boxes to keep the ornaments in for years to come

Daddy and Caleb getting ready to read the devotional and talk about the lesson

Sweet Memories

Caleb telling us where he wants to hang the new ornament (notice our tree is a little top heavy-to keep little Davis hands off of them). In future years, I think we will have a smaller tree just for these 24 ornaments.

Picking the perfect spot

Check out on of the writer/creators of A Meaningful Christmas blog post here

We are prayerful of the future years and the wonderful memories we are creating with our kids. Caleb is still a little young to grasp it all but it is still really fun and it helps us focus our hearts and minds on the most Meaningful part of CHRISTmas! (A group picture will follow-it was on a different person's camera).

10 months - November 31

2011-12-07T12:27:00.000-08:00

This pumpkin is 10 months!!! Can't believe how fast it has gone by and how much he has grown.

Last month we took Davis in for his 9 month appointment he was:

30 inches (95%)

19 pounds and 12 ounces (50%)

Remarkably the same exact size as Caleb was at that age.

We also forgot to post, but last month we switched him into the big boy car seat and loves facing backwards. Davis is a wonderful traveler and does so well in the car.

Davis has loved monkey walking the past couple of months, but a few days before his 10th month birthday, he started pushing the walking toy around by himself. It is so cute! He gets so excited until he bumps into something and can't move then he gets frustrated. He is learning to back up and try again.

Davis is one of the happiest babies we have seen but when he is hungry, he surely lets you know it. He squeals, grunts, uses his outside voice to communicate he is ready to eat NOW! It is too funny!

We pray all the time for him but this month we focused on praying for him this verse, "Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be (a man) of courage; be strong. Do everything in love." 1 Corinthians 16:13-14

Love every moment with this little guy!

November 2011

2011-12-06T18:26:00.000-08:00

Such another fun, fun month!! From two trips down to Austin this month to some relaxing weekends at home. We had a great and busy month. Here are a few pictures of the month that we had:

We forgot to document this last month, but Davis now in a big boy car seat. It is a little harder for him to see big brother but he does great in the car-can't complain!

Here is a shot of the two of them

Brother Love

Mr. Clint and Mrs. Lisa took this sweet picture at the park last month. I just love other peoples pictures, especially with a fancy camera!

I feel like I was constantly taking pictures of Caleb sleeping so here is a sweet sleeping baby. Davis is a wonderful sleeper!!

An apple got out of the bag after a grocery store trip and Davis was crawling around on the floor chasing it. He actually pinned in on the ground and was going to town. He enjoyed his apple so much he continued to nibble on it in his high chair. Too cute!

After bath Mohawk

Sunday afternoon "nappers"

Playing outside in the cold

Playing in a box

Another Sunday afternoon "nap"

Love this beautiful Fall weather that won't last long

Davis is fearless and is ready for the slide

We met at Gattitown with our Community (sad that we didn't take more pictures of the fun) but we were reminiscing that the last time we all went to Gattitown, we found out the Smiths were pregnant and Julie had the house all set up to tell Craig that we were pregnant after we got home! Such fun memories!

Davis' first time in the red car-he loved it!

Then they switched places

Completely forgot to include this in the Thanksgiving post but we set out a Turkey Trap the eve of Thanksgiving. The box says "Here Turkey, Turkey" We read the little legend and told Caleb that if we put "corn" out, we might be able to trap the turkey.

The next morning he woke up to find an untouched Turkey Trap but feathers, a note, and a "surprise" (turkey poop ie. whoppers). We told Caleb that Mimi ended up catching the turkey in the oven. Caleb quickly ate the Turkey Poop and loved looking at the Turkey in the oven. He was thankful that Mimi caught it instead of him.

Thanksgiving weekend: Mammy and MeDad took Caleb on a special date. We all went to a yummy hamburger place, then...

Mammy took Caleb to the Movie (The Muppets). He made it almost all the way through but they left early and it probably is not recommended for little ones. As Caleb put it, "that was a little weird."

The big boy ready to watch a movie

Sweet boy at Aunt K10 and Uncle Allen's house

The cousins racing

Caleb showing how big he is next to the puzzle he put together

Love this boy!

I went by to meet sweet baby Ava. She is absolutely precious! Lori and Jay have a beautiful baby girl!

Big news: Davis is pushing the walker toys around by himself. He is so precious, happy, and loves walking! He will push the walker into a wall or a piece of furniture and get frustrated that he can't go anymore. Too cute!

"Mmmmm...I think I will stop and take a nibble break!"

This month we had a Thankfulness Tree and we were always talking about what we are thankful for. Caleb really got into and reminded us at mealtimes to mention what we were thankful for. On a side note-his class in school is memorizing the Fruit of the Spirit and he always throws in Thankfulness as part of the verse. It is too cute! We loved putting this together and are still talking about all the things we are thankful for.

Here is the list in no particular order: I am thankful for: • Triangles • Breakfast • having our family together • Eyes to see • A helpful and involved Daddy • A house • Pictures • Boots • That Davis makes me happy • Our family • An orange shirt (passed down from cousins-clothes) • Batman costume • That God loves me • My cousins • Getting to play with Caleb • School • My brother, Davis • Cowboy boots • Craig having a job • Birdies • Money • Mommy • Getting to play outside •Trees • Juice • Legs • Candy • A daddy that is in charge Clothes • A God that is in charge • Water • People to live life with • Pajamies • Markers • Hamburgers • Daddy • Tents • Rain • That Caleb shares • A mommy that makes yummy food • Pretzels • Yummy food • A church to worship in • Stacey and Wyatt • The smurfs • A good night sleep • Candy • Laughter • Blocks • My head • Time with my family • A bed to sleep in • PbJ • Mimi and Papa • Mammy and MeDad

Here is a little craft that I wanted to make with Caleb and his cousins on Thanksgiving but the day got away from us and I didn't have enough supplies for all the turkeys. Now this is Caleb's countdown to Christmas. He gets one m&m a day until Christmas (we took a lot out of the jar-just so you know). Caleb is thankful for Mommy and Daddy, Davis, swords, jammies, noses, Mr. Will our neighbor, and his buddy Cade.

What a fun month. We have so much to be thankful for!

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body

you were called to peace. And be thankful. Colossians 3:15

Thanksgiving in Austin

2011-12-01T13:22:00.000-08:00

We have SO much to be thankful for...

We had a great 3 days and 4 nights in Austin with Family! We spent the majority of the day in Georgetown at Aunt Jen and Uncle Tony's house and 32 of our family members from Great Mimi, 2 Aunts, 3 Uncles, 2 Big Cousins, 2 grandparents, and 4 little cousins, plus Uncle Tony's side of the family: his parents, his 2 sisters, their husbands and 4 kids, and his brother (Julie went to high school with Michael and Becca-Tony's little sister and brother). It was a really special day and so much fun being with so many loved ones.

There was a lot of dressing up

Climbing stairs

Eating Turkey and all the fixins'-Davis LOVED it! (A good lunch called for a LONG nap)

So happy

A lot of walking with anyone who would-Cousin Lisa helped a ton

Mimi's turn for stairs

Christalyn, the pogo queen!

And such a big helper

Aunt Jen is really creative and hung their parachute and made an awesome bubble to play in. Cousin Broughton and his girlfriend, Star, helped to bring the bubble to life!

Daddy playing a little soccer. Apparently, they made up a very entertaining game, called Bucket Ball, but didn't get any pictures of the action of everyone playing. Daddy was a little sore for a few days-

These two crack me up

We were so thankful that the weather was beautiful and the 10 kids could run and play outside.

We had an amazing time on Thanksgiving Day (not great pictures to show) and will post pictures of the rest of our time Austin with the November post!

Heavenly Father, on Thanksgiving Day
We bow our hearts to You and pray.

We give You thanks for all You've done

Especially for the gift of Jesus, Your Son.

For beauty in nature, Your glory we see

For joy and health, friends and family,

For daily provision, Your mercy and care

These are the blessings You graciously share.

So today we offer this response of praise

With a promise to follow You all of our days.

--Mary Fairchild

A Vacation for All

2011-11-11T19:26:00.000-08:00

Craig had a work conference in San Francisco, similar to our Boston Trip we took last year. We decided to make a vacation the weekend after the conference. Julie drove the boys down to stay with Mimi and Papa, met Craig in San Francisco and enjoyed 4 days and 3 nights of it just being the two of us. It was great to get away but we missed our little guys so much. The weather was pretty chilly and rainy but the city is still just as beautiful. It is so much fun to travel with each other and explore with no agenda. Craig did a great job planning dinners and evenings out, including a Cirque du Soleil show. We got to see some great friends from business school and Julie even got to see one of her precious high school girls that moved out to CA a few years ago. We did a horrible job taking pictures but here are a few of the highlights:

The first night Julie got to attend the fancy dinner that was part of the conference

Friday we slept in!!! And made our way to the last closing speaker of the conference. We saw Captain Mark Kelly, astronaut and husband to U.S. Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords. He was very interesting!

Us in front of the other bridge, Oakland Bay Bridge, it is just as pretty as the Golden Gate.

Friday afternoon we went shopping and enjoyed having no agenda. We moved our bags to a friends apartment, Brian was out of town and graciously let us stay in his place. We were just a few blocks from the San Fransisco Giants AT&T Baseball Park. It was a great location and had some great views.

That night we strolled through China Town and had yummy Chinese food

Saturday, we did some more sleeping in late and we walked a TON! We hung out with some business school friends and then had lunch with Craig's old roommate, Al. We ate at our favorite--Patxi's Chicago Pizza! Sad, no pictures of this joyous occasion. Then, we went to the Ferry Building and met up with sweet Carley, one of Julie's high school girls! Love her and sad that we didn't get any pictures either!

We walked/shopped some more and got stuck in the rain! We enjoyed another yummy meal, Sushi! And then took the subway back home. We were drenched, cold, and ready to sit down.

We dried off and then went back out in the cold rain for the Cirque du Soleil Totem Show. This is probably our fifth time to see one of their shows and we are always amazed at the talent, creativity, and enjoyment!

Thanks, Craig, for making such a fun Date Weekend just for the two of us! You always create such an awesome time whether we are resting, sleeping in, or exploring the town. Thanks for treating me to a wonderful weekend and making it so special...

Now the real thanks goes to our family!!!!! While we were frolicking around the City, Caleb and Davis were well taken care of, well loved, and well entertained. From special quality time with their grandparents, to lunches with Mammy and MeDad, to play dates with with Aunt K10 and Lucy, to playing dress up with the Garcias, to church at Mimi and Papas, to adventures at the park, WOW--the list goes on. They had so much fun and what a vacation they had (not sure if it was a vacation for Mimi and Papa). Thank you so much to Mimi and Papa for giving us this special time and for everyone else that helped to love on our boys while we were gone. We missed them terribly but know this was important for everyone! Here are a few pictures of their vacation!

Davis playing at the Garcias

Caleb dressing up in a batman cape and sword

Caleb in a Prince Charming costume

Christalyn is so great with the babies

The night we drove in to Austin, we did something super special, Caleb had his first "sleepover" sleeping in the same bed with someone else. TJ was so sweet making sure he was okay, didn't roll out of bed, and made sure he didn't get out of bed too early. This was a great first sleepover!

Aunt Jen with Davis

Davis loves to swing

Faith and Christalyn

A cousin picture

Too cute

Lucy is so great with Caleb. She is patient, gentle, kind, and understanding. Caleb had SO much fun playing with Aunt K10 and Lucy. Davis took a great nap and loved spending time with them!

Caleb's favorite activity cutting (love the Halloween lips in his mouth)

Sadly, we have NO pictures of the grandparents! Again, it was such a great vacation for all of us and we really appreciate all those that helped to make it possible and so fun for our boys!

October 2011

2011-11-10T11:43:00.000-08:00

We love this time of year...beautiful weather, great colors in the trees, many parks to get reacquainted with, fun nature walks, and 2 active boys that love to go! We enjoyed a trip to Austin, the State Fair, Halloween, and a TON of birthday parties! Enjoy the pictures below to see our fun month:

Caleb has had a few sleep issues the past month or so. He would wake up in the middle of the night, turn on his light, and start playing with his toys in his room. We quickly stopped that habit, but he will still wake up around 6ish in the morning and play (before time change). The only thing that has seemed to help is that he does not take a nap everyday but has "room time" or "rest time." So, one morning at 7 am, we were walking to Caleb's room to "wake" him up and here he is lying on the floor asleep in the living room. Sweet boy!

Caleb's 3rd TX/OU game at Ms. Jessica's house. Even though it was a sad game-Caleb loved playing in her backyard.

He is so grown up!

Caleb still LOVES dressing up and our sweet friends passed down their beloved Bible Man Costume!

One morning it was raining and we let Caleb go outside to play by himself in the rain...we looked outside to find him peeing in this cup while catching the rain! Too funny!

Playing in his "nest"

Davis had a puffy, red eye, goopy stuffy-we got drops quickly. Sweet boy wasn't in pain but it looked awful!

Caleb was playing with some gummy teeth and it reminded me of Craig's favorite Halloween costume. Like Father, Like Son!

The Jumperoo is out and in full effect. Davis is so happy jumping!

Caleb played "hide and seek" in Davis room and fell asleep before I found him. I guess he needed a nap that day.

Crawling EVERYWHERE including climbing up stools/ladders/steps

Another like Father, like Son moment--Daddy was eating his pizza watching a football game and Caleb took his plate and stood next to him. Too Cute!

My little kitchen helpers, spinning the salad. This was so fun until little fingers got pinched.

We even pulled out some winter hats for a chilly morning.

The high school down the street had a homecoming parade and Caleb really enjoyed watching it with a sweet neighbor friend, Graham, (yellow shirt). Sadly, didn't get a picture of these precious boys together.

Craig was playing with Davis and he managed to take this picture of them playing-it looks like Davis is winning!

And lastly, these two little "twin" punkins ready for Halloween

A usual happening-Caleb poking Davis and Davis just laughing!

Halloween Festivities

2011-11-08T20:23:00.000-08:00

Halloween and dressing up have been such a fun thing for Caleb this year (considering he has been wearing costumes for 6+ months.) But, he was finally able to wear his costumes out of the house.

When the first festivity arrived that required a costume, I was ready to put Caleb in his precious lion costume but he insisted on being batman (or wearing batman pajamas). We threw on a mask to make it look more like a "costume" and to make it more fun. We agreed that he could wear whatever he wanted but on actual Halloween he would be a lion.

So, here we go--to the grocery store for festivity #1 (the best grocery store visit) because he was pretty entertained with a few goodies

Festivity #2: Richardson held a Fall Festival at one of the Rec Centers--with games, prizes, snacks, bounce house, petting zoo, mazes, crafts, and more!

My new FAVORITE picture of this punkin!

Festivity #3: Our Neighborhood Playgroup and good buddy, Graham and Krista, threw an amazing Halloween Party in their backyard. Caleb had a blast and Ms. Krista did an outstanding job!

Davis enjoyed the party too!

These 2 little boys are precious together and are best buddies. Graham is just adorable and these boys are inseparable, goofy, and oh so wild together!

This picture of Caleb cleaning in his mask reminds me of the Masked Man from the Bachelorette this past season. If you watched it, you will know exactly what I mean, if not disregard and forget that I ever put a picture of the Bachelorette.

(Did I just put a picture of the Bachelorette on our blog? Yes, I did)

Festivity #4: A friend from our church playgroup had a first birthday party for sweet Ansel. They had a bounce house, yummy food, a pinata, and costumes! It was a brilliant idea to have a birthday party before Trick or Treating. So much fun!! It was especially fun when Daddy showed up and made this lion-less costumed boy happy!!

LOVE this time of year and the fact that a week later Caleb is still loving dressing up!

Halloween--Roar!!!

2011-11-06T19:25:00.000-08:00

Our home was filled with much excitement and anticipation for this big day. We have been talking/trying on the lion costume for months. We even practiced what to say when we go trick or treating. Our little lions were dressed and ready to "Roar" and Roam the streets.

Davis trying on his lion costume to make sure it fit. The 3-6 month outfit couldn't fit around his legs or snapped but it worked.

It is go time and these little lions were Ready!

ROARRRR!

My littlest lion and didn't realize the beautiful sunset-don't worry after the picture, we fixed his little leg.

Our first house and sweet neighbors. No matter, how much we "rehearsed" what to say, he would freeze and not say much. He was still so precious and had a blast!

Happy Halloween!

9 Months - October 31

2011-10-31T21:40:00.000-07:00

What a fun month! Davis is all giggles, smiles, laughs, babbles (dadada and mmmmmm, just to name a few). A day doesn't go by without someone commenting on his beautiful smile and/or eyes. He is quite the adventure-seeker, he will climb anywhere (through our coffee table, over step ladders). When he is touching something that we say "No, No" (like the fireplace), he looks at us, giggles, and proceeds with touching it.

This boy LOVES to eat. He is still eating pureed baby food but prefers his finger food and lots of it. We went from being cautious and careful about everything he eats to quickly just trying all sorts of new finger foods. So far, the only reaction we have seen is a little irritation from strawberries.

Couldn't get this picture turned correctly-sorry!

Davis is also becoming very opinionated. If he wants or doesn't want something, he surely lets you know with grunts. We are working on our sign language to reduce some frustration for all of us!

What a precious little man! We have his 9 month appointment next week, we are so curious to know his stats...considering things are so short on him (torso and legs).

There were 5 Mondays this month and his actual 9 month birthday falls on a Monday! What a special day today (not to mention that it is Halloween too)! We can't believe this pumpkin will be 1 in just 3 short months!

We are so blessed to have this little boy in our life! This is from one of my favorite children's books,

"I'll love you forever, I'll like you for always.

As long as I'm living, My baby you'll be."

State Fair

2011-10-30T19:34:00.000-07:00

Daddy took the day off and we headed to the State Fair of Texas after Davis' morning nap. The weather was a tad chilly but it was perfect. Daddy even got sunburned (are you surprised?). We went on the day that the admission was $2 if you bring 3 canned foods. That was a great way to go!

Caleb was SO excited to go to the Fair! He was "patiently" waiting (and working up to it with a sticker chart). The first stop, Daddy took Caleb to see the Dog Show while Mommy was feeding Davis in a great Baby Care Tent (they really thought of everything!)

Then we tried a variety of fried foods (Caleb enjoyed the Fried Snickers-so did Mommy)!

Caleb was a little unsure at first, about the Hands On Kid's Barn but warmed up and had a great time

Caleb's little apron and basket to collect the goods

Riding the tractor to "feed" the pigs

Feeding the sheep

Caleb and Daddy played a game and won the most expensive stuffed crayon ever (Daddy was determined to win a smurf for Caleb)-Maybe next year!

These games are so deceptive. Even the most talented athlete I know couldn't knock the silly blocks off the table in ONE throw.

Caleb then wanted to experience some rides. We let him pick two rides and he choose a whale and an elephant. We scoped out all the rides and he had his heart set on the whale. After watching it go around, he was the first one on for the next turn and LOVED it! It was precious!

He literally was having a WHALE of a time!

Next was the flying elephants, he was a little less excited about this one towards the end.

Caleb also really wanted to ride the Ferris Wheel, Star of Texas, until we got undermeath it, saw how BIG it really is and that it would cost a TON of tickets for the ride. Maybe next time!

We had more fried food (a corn dog and fried pineapple upside down cake--the favorite)!

Even Davis got a taste of corn dog

Caleb had a blast playing soccer, baseball, and riding around the real racetrack in the Chevrolet center (we were wasting time)

Cute Hot Rods!

By the end, someone was a little tired

Finally we got our places at the Cirque Shanghai. Caleb LOVED it and was mesmorized by the acrobats--we called it the Circus.

We had a great time and both boys fell asleep on the way home. It was really fun this year and I am sure next year will be even better!

Thanks Big Tex for some great memories!

Part Two - Trip to Austin

2011-10-24T12:59:00.000-07:00

Oops forgot to post this a few weeks ago!

After Lori's Baby Shower, we headed to Georgetown for Sarah's 4th Birthday celebration!! Aunt Jen always throws the best parties and Caleb enjoyed playing with the big kids and dressing up too.

Here are the beautiful and yummy cakes

Christalyn (almost 8) is having a Slumber Party for her birthday next week-sad that we won't be there for that one. She is such a big girl and is helping with the party food (marshmallows on pretzels dipped in chocolate and sprinkles)

The birthday girl!!

Davis had a blast at the party too

It was a Princess Party where all the girls played dress up and this little guy fit right in, dressing like a Prince

Mimi and Great Mimi

The Prince protecting the castle

Faith getting some lovin'

Our two little princes'

Don't tell our prince but he looks like a pirate here

Mimi and her 2 kids: Aunt Debbie and Julie's Dad

Side note: We went to the doctor for Caleb's 3 year appointment he is

37 pounds (90%)

40 inches (90%)

He grew 3+ inches and gained 6+ pounds! Our Big Guy!!

To this day, Caleb is asking to dress up like "A Prince named Charming." Precious!! Daddy has Caleb well-trained and tells mommy multiple times a day, "Mommy, you look beautiful" (even when I first wake up"-so sweet). Now, he likes to be told "You look handsome" after he gives mommy a compliment! Funny Boy!

Such a fun trip to Austin/Georgetown but is always too fast. We did not get any pictures of Daddy and the boys with the Cowden Cousins at Luke's Football game, lunch with MeDad, nor playtime at Mammy and MeDad's. Oh well! It was fun though!

Lori's Baby Shower

2011-10-07T13:01:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I was able to help throw a baby shower for a sweet, sweet friend of mine. Lori and I met probably 12+ years ago through my best friend from high school, Megan. The 3 of us were inseparable and we had so many wonderful memories together. We were in each other's weddings and now we get to enter the next phase of life together: Children! Megan lives in Ireland now and she was dearly missed!!

We had a fun pumpkin theme for Lori's sweet pumpkin, Ava due November 10th!

These are precious onesies for every month of Ava's first year

Pink, Orange, and Brown everywhere

Little Pumpkin Notes for everyone to write a note to Ava (telling her what we want her to learn, love, laugh at, ignore, become, respect, grow, etc.)

The yummy cupcakes

"It's A Girl" written on the pumpkins

Lori opening Auntie Meg's gift (a yellow duck lovey!) So Sweet!

The Hostesses: Jennie (the main party planner, who has a 2 month old, was packing up her house to start moving to another house the day after the party, and did the bulk of the planning/creativity/etc), Me, Lori, and Jenny (pregnant with her first pumpkin in December)

Precious Hostess Gift from Lori: yummy pumpkin bread and wonderful hand soap

So fun! Sweet Lori, I am praying for your last month of pregnancy, for Ava's arrival to be smooth, for your transition to being a momma, for you and Jay to love being parents, and for the next wonderful chapter of your life!! Love you!

September 2011

2011-10-06T11:58:00.000-07:00

WOW! What a full month! We slowly add these pictures in a "work in progress" post and these pictures feel like they were taken ages ago. It is especially fun to see how much Davis has grown and changed this month, he now is ALL over the place. And we have a 3 year old in the house!!!

Enjoy these pictures of our month (there are a lot of them):

Caleb is helping in the kitchen

Making silly faces on the drive down to the Ranch for Labor Day

Davis peaking through on the LONG car trip

Ooching at Mammy and MeDad's (not yet crawling at this point but getting around)

Playing peek-a-boo with Mammy

I spy with my little eyes, Davis looking through the table at me

A truck stop in the Hill Country! Love it!

Just a few days before driving to the Ranch, we went on a date night to see Seven Days in Utopia (which was filmed near the Wenning's Ranch), it was fun to drive through the town of Utopia and see some of the same things that were on the big screen. Here is the beautiful church that was in the movie! Pretty Cool!

Happy Brothers

The day Davis discovered he could stand up in his crib. We dropped the mattress down a level that night!

It is pretty precious when he stands up and let's his floor fan blow his hair (he looks like a dog with his head out of the car window). Too bad we would get frustrated that he couldn't lay down once he stood up (but a few hard weeks of learning and now he has it!)

Bed Head after a nice nap! Crazy fluffy hair!

Daddy is working hard on getting the Race Track ready for the birthday party

Caleb wanted Davis to play basketball, so we lowered his basketball goal and look who can already slam dunk!

Clapping his hands

Davis just loves this fan

Standing and playing the piano

Starting cheerios and puffs-pretty yummy!

Aunt Jen put little Faith in Julie's old Annie dress-Precious!

Our little cuddle bug!

Davis is such a HAPPY baby but is beside himself when he is able to stand up and see new things.

Until next month, which is sure to be another fun-filled adventure!

3 Years Old

2011-10-05T19:13:00.000-07:00

Our precious little boy is now THREE!!! There is never a dull moment and he entertains us all throughout the day. Caleb is in such a fun stage where he laughs at our jokes, laughs at his own jokes, is so silly, loves to have fun, wants to be near his little brother at all times, enjoys reading, has become more adventurous, memorizes scripture, and has a sweet personality. It has been a wonderful year and we pray that our little boy continues to grow into a mighty man of God!

The birthday boy having birthday waffles playing with a fun new birthday gift (Thanks Graham!)

Daddy took the Monday after Caleb's birthday off and we had a fun family day. Caleb constantly asks Daddy, "when you are all through with work will you please go ____ with me?" One of the main things he asks to do with Daddy is play air hockey or go to BounceU, so we got to do both at BounceU!

Daddy was not feeling 100% on this day but Caleb never would have known- We have the BEST Daddy!

Doesn't slow down at all

Even Davis Loves BounceU

We had the whole place to ourselves, so we were able to have "rest time" for 5 seconds

Julie even got in and had fun sliding down the BIG slide

LOVE these boys!

The next day, Caleb took some treats to school and he was the "birthday boy" all day long! He LOVED it!

Happy 3rd Birthday Caleb! We love you and can't to see how you develop next year.

8 months - September 31

2011-09-29T20:28:00.000-07:00

What a busy month this little guy has had!! From popping out 4 teeth, now a total of 8 teeth, to learning to stand up in his crib, to quickly needing to drop the crib, to cruising around, to sitting by himself, to full fledged crawling, to crawling to any object and standing up-whew!!!

Davis is an incredibly happy baby and most of the time shows it. But he is just ecstatic when he is standing up. He doesn't stay sitting for long, he prefers to crawl to anything and everything to stand up, then he is REALLY happy. His dismount is needing some work and usually ends up toppling over-it is the cutest when he is in his crib and is so tired yet can't get down to go to sleep. He is learning though!

Ha!! So funny! I put Davis in the same outfit 2 weeks in a row! Oops-I guessed I like this shirt!

He looks like a dog hanging out the window when he stands in his crib because we have a fan that sits on the floor and blows up at him. He drools, laughs, and just lets the wind blow his hair. Too Cute!

Can't believe he is 2/3 of the way to being 1 year old!! It is going too fast and he just melts our heart daily!

Caleb's 3rd Birthday Party

2011-09-27T19:27:00.000-07:00

Our little boy turned 3 years old and we celebrated with a race car themed birthday party. Here was the wording on the invitation and a ton of pictures from the first part of the party and the end of the party. Sad that I missed taking more pictures of all the little friends playing together. Caleb had a blast with our Community, our church play group, his cousins, and a few neighbors!!

Race Over to the Wenning Grand Prix

To Celebrate Caleb Turning Three

Bringing a Riding Toy for Your Racer is Key

Wenning Racetrack

Saturday, September 24th at 10 am

Please RSVP to Grand Marshal Julie

Craig is the best, most supportive, helpful, encouraging co-planner in the party. Julie has the vision and the ideas and Craig is the superstar that pulls it all together (thanks for finding wood and painting it!!)

The race track that the kiddos could zoom up and down

The Parking Lot

Birthday Banner

Gas Pump, even though the kids didn't really know what it was, it was still cute (even a real picture of a gas pump)

Tune Up Station

Detailing Station

The Backyard

Oil Jug Boxes Decor

Refueling Station

The Pit Stop--MMM...good!

Stop Light Fruit (Red Strawberries, Yellow Pineapple, Green Grapes), Wheely Good Pasta (Wheel Pasta and Meatballs), Nuts and Bolts (Party Mix), and Assembly Line (Rice Krispie Treats, Licorice, Red Candies, Chocolate Donuts)

Motoroil (Grape Koolaid) and Antifreeze (Lime Koolaid)

Table Decor

Front Yard

Caleb is getting a little shy during the birthday song

A new found love of swinging

Swinging with Ms. Gayle (sweet neighbor)

Braysen and Cade (Community Boys)

Aunt Jen and Davis

Brooks and Elyse were riding the tractor together-it was too cute but I didn't get a picture in time

Elyse, June, Bubba, and Caleb having cake

Brooks and Jake playing in the sand box

The Grundy Family

It wouldn't be a party without some Daddy Play Time

TJ, Christalyn and Sarah with the birthday boy

Can't believe we have a 3 year old!! We are so blessed!

First Day of School

2011-09-13T20:46:00.000-07:00

The anticipation of the First Day of School has now come and gone-but it was fun while it lasted and we will have many more. While I was getting dressed before taking Caleb to school, I thought Caleb was eating breakfast, but actually, he was coloring on himself with a green wipe board marker. LOVELY!!! So, 20 minutes before we had to be at school, he got a quick bath and we weren't even late! So needless to say, this momma was ready for a 3 hour break from this little angel. Good memories of our first day of school!

Caleb was so excited I didn't even get a hug or a kiss but a "Good-bye Mommy-I will miss you SO much" as he was running into his class. So Sweet!

It was so fun to hear about his day and to hear him singing new songs to himself. I don't know the tune to their "Days of the Week" song but he seems to really like it and not like any of mine from my teaching days. Praying that Caleb learns SO much in school, learns the Fruit of the Spirit (their memory verse) and embraces the meaning of it, that he meets new friends, enjoys learning, and grows to be a little boy that loves the Lord!

Open House

2011-09-10T12:45:00.000-07:00

A very excited almost 3 year old was able to go to his new school and meet his first teachers. Mrs. Mayfield (which I have heard WONDERFUL things about) and Mrs. Miller (the preacher's wife at the church where the school is) are super sweet women and we are ready for a fun year.

Daddy was so sweet to leave work, drive 30+ minutes, just to hang out for 30 minutes, and then drive 30+ minutes back to work. It meant so so SO much to Caleb that his daddy was there with him.

Making his Snack Placemat

Checking out the bulletin boards-it had a rubber snake on it

Canon, a friend in his class, they will be great buddies because they are also in the same class at church on Sundays and Wednesdays for bible study (That is 3 days a week!)

What are we going to do with our time when Caleb is at school? I am really forward to having special time with Davis--but I am sure Davis will miss his big brother since he is a constant source of entertainment for us all!

Ranch - Labor Day 2011

2011-09-08T20:43:00.000-07:00

During our 3 Day Labor Day weekend, we traveled down to Austin and then on down to the Ranch for the long weekend with Julie's family. We had a great time enjoying the beautiful Hill Country, despite it being so dry and warm, we made some good memories.

Our Cowboy Hiker

Such a happy camper (even if he is getting his 5th tooth)

Looking out the body of Alejandro the Armadillo

Our morning hike up the mountain

Uncle Willie with the boys

Taking a little break

Caleb's favorite part-climbing up the rope

We did it! We did it! We made it to the top (of one clearing)!

Aunt Karen, Uncle Gary, and Lisa drove a quite a long distance just for 24 hours of the Ranch! So fun, they got to meet Davis and love on all the other kiddos.

Aunt Jen and Uncle Tony's kids are SO great with Caleb. They are patient, understanding, sweet and compassionate. I pray Caleb learns from his older cousins!

We packed the same outfit that Caleb wore at the Ranch a few years ago on his first trip to the Ranch at 8 months of age. Can you tell which one is which?

Mimi's ~~63,~~ I mean 36th Birthday Celebration-what a way to celebrate!

Papa got up with the "chickens" and smoked a brisket for 12+ hours and, boy oh boy was it good!!! It was worth the wait!

His work area (or surgeon's table)

The Grill Master posing

The back of his shirt says "Never trust a skinny cook" - I guess we were in good hands!

The best babysitters, Christalyn and Sarah

Love this pose!

I had to take advantage of this guy slowing down, smiling, and posing

Caleb looks a little tired

Thanks Mimi and Papa for a great weekend (and Thanks Mammy and MeDad for letting us use the Ranch)! We had a blast!

August 2011

2011-09-06T12:49:00.000-07:00

Whew! August came and went in a hurry! We didn't do much but enjoyed the nice quiet time indoors before the busyness of the "school year" starts up. Here is a snapshot of our month in a large nutshell:

These boys LOVE each other. It melts our hearts when Davis will watch every move Caleb does and he thrives with it.

Brock Austin's birth was a great start to the month. Brad, Laura, and big brother Braysen had Brock on August 5th and makes/made our Community Group 11th boy under 6 years old!

I forgot just how tiny these punkins are when they are first born. Welcome to the world precious Brock! Praying for you to be a man of God!

The dressing up continues...We read a book with a Jester in it-so here is our Jester costume!

Then Daddy came home and created this costume. We think Caleb looks like Craig's sister, Kristin, as a little girl!

Caleb is fishing here

Our sleeping bag game is so fun. You just pull each other around on a slippery sleeping bag and the laughs are endless. Davis is finally old enough to join in the fun too.

This is a typical picture-Caleb touching Davis

Davis was enjoying it so much and Caleb was very gentle pulling him around.

We were reading about the Dalmatians so Caleb wanted to try on his first Halloween Costume, a 12 month 102nd Dalmatian. (Check out the link to compare pictures)

"Hang Ten Dude!" as Caleb is a surfer

A superhero with a mask

Caleb dressed up like a pirate next and was making his finger like this and finally I figured out that he wanted a hook on his finger...so...

here is the hook for this pirate

Strong Man

Doing our daily gymnastic

Davis is still loving his food-he even cries when we don't feed him fast enough.

We thought it would be fun to try out a sippy cup

Davis' first few bites of vegetables-he was not a fan at first but likes them now. I wish the camera captured his funny faces those first few bites. It was hilarious!

I like eating veggies now, especially these orange ones!

Davis is up on all fours, rocking, ooching, moving, scootching, but not quite the full on crawl

The count down to school has begun. Next month, Caleb will be going to Graham Cracker Express one day a week from 9-12. It will be his first experience at preschool and he is SO excited! We created a jar to help us count down to the first day of school. Caleb did all the counting and looks forward to his m&m everyday. He is wearing his new backpack and is thrilled about the new experience!

Caleb taking matters in his own hands and dipping his head in the water table to stay cool at Abby's 1st Birthday Party!!

We recently have had the problem with Caleb getting out of bed, grabbing anything he can, going back to bed, and playing during rest time and bed time. This particular night, he grabbed his large jar of lotion and put it ALL over him, head to toe. It was too funny that we laughed, took a picture, and made him upset when we wiped the lotion off, and reprimanded. We will gladly take advice on keeping kiddos in bed and rules around this time.

Uncle Tony road 100 miles in the 109 heat of "Hotter N Hell" bike race. So in honor of his big ride, Caleb wore his cycling shirt and did some laps in the air conditioning.

Our Community Group met at the Galleria for dinner with 8 kids and 8 adults and these precious and amazing Stroller Dads are priceless!

Looking forward to another fun-filled month of our "back to school" activities!

Take Me Out to the Ballgame

2011-08-31T20:36:00.000-07:00

Daddy took Caleb to a Real baseball game. Daddy got tickets from work and we talked it up about what a big deal this was!! They sure did have fun-staying up late, eating pretzels, hot dogs, drinking Gatorade, playing with the chairs, watching all the excitement, running all over the place, and just making such wonderful memories! I am so glad that Daddy poured special time into Caleb and that they had such a special evening. Caleb talks about the real Texas Rangers baseball game ALL the time, tells anyone he can, and plays baseball in our living room daily.

I am not sure if Caleb realized/appreciated how great the seats were. They were 4 rows behind the Visitors dug out.

I think he enjoyed the ball park food (2 1/2 hot dogs and a pretzel!)

This picture was taken as they were leaving, to show Caleb's first big boo boo. Caleb skinned his elbow, knee, and nose when he was running/sprinting down a ramp and he took a "nose dive." (as he likes to call it when he shows anybody/everybody.) Daddy said he was brave and handled it really well, then he proceeded to eat 2 more hot dogs. Poor guy!

We love that he was able to have this great experience! Thanks Daddy!!

7 months - August 31

2011-08-31T12:40:00.000-07:00

We have had such a fun and ACTIVE month for Davis! We went to doctor for his 6 month appointment shortly after his 6 month birthday. He is17 pounds (50%) and 27 3/4 inches (90%). We started giving him vegetables along with his cereal. He was not a fan at first but day 2 was much better. We have forgotten how incredibly messy feeding a baby is. (pictures to follow). He is NOT a fan of peas but LOVES his orange veggies (sweet potatoes and carrots). We are taking trying new foods really slowly. We are just about to hit the yummy fruits. Praying he is a great eater like his big brother was (key word is was).

I thought Davis was "moving around" last month but boy was I wrong. This guy is up in crawling position for a few minutes at a time, rocking, and managing to move quite quickly. We need to baby proof our house pronto! Any suggestions on keeping big brother's tiny toys away from Davis' play area?

At Davis' 6 month appointment Nurse Nancy mentioned that his top row of teeth are ready to bust through. It was amazing how swollen his sweet gums were. Finally, last weekend his 3rd and 4th teeth tore through (literally, he had bloody mouth a few times). He was such a trooper-only gave him medicine once when he woke up. We think the other two will be following suit any day now.

Davis is sitting up pretty well for a few minutes at a time but we are still close by just in case he tumbles over. He still prefers to stand up but sitting is a fun change of pace.

We think Davis has attached to a "Lovey." We call him Skipit! The Penuels gave Caleb this precious lovey when he was born but Caleb never latched on to him. Davis just loves his new friend and burrows his face in it all the time. Then a few weeks ago a friend from church gave Davis this onesie with our pal, Skipit, on it. I was able to squeeze him in the precious outfit for one picture. Too cute!

(We almost forgot to take these Monday pictures this week, so right before dinner at 6:55 we snapped a few quick pictures.)

This is what he does to his friend, Skipit!! Love it! It is becoming quite the challenge taking pictures of Davis, his favorite thing is the blue piece of paper. He is a magnet to that thing! He truly tests our "photography" skills.

Happy 7 months!!!

July 2011

2011-08-01T20:14:00.000-07:00

This has been a fun month from being in Austin, to having Mimi, Papa, and Great Mimi in town, to having fun, relaxing family weekends, to getting bored at home to avoid the heat.

Kidney update: We went to see the Urologist for a 6 month check and Caleb "graduated" and never has to go back!!!!!! Praise the Lord! Everything is looking good, they are proud of him for being potty trained, his right kidney stills looks enlarged (like a deflated balloon) but the left one measured the same as the right but appears healthy. Caleb will have to get his blood pressure and urine tested yearly for the rest of his life to make sure the kidneys are still okay and we will keep him on miralax for a while longer to help things flow. (Dr. Strand gave Davis' a sonogram and he is great! Thank you Lord!)

Caleb has enjoyed dressing up this month...so we are going to play a little game with these silly pictures:

Would you rather be a "Firework" for 4th of July?

Or a Superhero with a cape and goggles?

Or would you rather be a lion playing with cars?

Or a baseball player?

Would you rather have a cone for a head, hands, and feet?

Or would you rather be a firefighter with an oxygen mask?

Would you rather be "Buzz Lightyear" (use your imagination on this one-helmet, wings, gloves, shoes that light up, a flashlight on his arm-laser, and special binoculars)?

Or wearing a snorkeling mask with cousins?

Or would you rather play and paint with liquid chalk before it get 165 degrees?

Or when it does get 165 degrees-would you rather melt "Icebergs" with special treats in the bath tub to stay cool?

Would you rather be in the exosaucer with a smiling brother next to you?

Or laying on your tummy (with the pearly whites of 2 teeth showing)?

Or would you rather be sitting up for a few seconds before falling over?

or would you rather enjoy this smile all day long?

Or would you rather take a picture of 2 precious boys?

Would you rather take a picture with Papa?

We may be a little biased but we think that is a pretty fun month with a lot of great "Would you rather" options! Now you know, we weren't kidding that Caleb LOVES to dress up!! Such a fun month!

6 months - July 31

2011-07-31T12:08:00.000-07:00

Such a fun month with this little guy! Just a few days after his 5 month birthday he easily got his first tooth and the second tooth was just a week after. He constantly has anything and everything in his mouth, he is grabbing out for anything in our hands, and his favorite (and Caleb's too) is when Caleb gets close enough (which is frequently) and Davis will grab a handful of Caleb's hair. They both just laugh! Davis squeals like a dinosaur, makes all sorts of noises, and entertains himself (and us) with his crazy noises. He smiles ALL the time. We feel like with Caleb we had to try a little bit to make him smile but Davis all you have to do is look at him and he gives the best smile!!! Davis' 6 month appointment is this week (his stats will follow).

Summer Supper Club

2011-07-30T11:55:00.000-07:00

We have changed up our Community this summer and enjoyed 4 wonderful weeks of "Summer Supper Club." We have had yummy pizza from from Urban Crust (Smith's choice), Mi Cocina (Gummelt's choice), and Asian Mint (Grundy's choice). The below picture was taken after dinner at Mi Cocina!

This week was our turn to plan the dinner. We love hosting in our home, so we made pizzas and had a fun Minute to Win It game night. We had so much fun planning the evening and even more fun with our Community playing these silly games. We missed you Cary and Cori!

Our 1st Place Winners--Karen Karesh Klan (since they are sadly moving to Waco in a few short weeks)

Our Second Place Winners--The Dragon Slayers

The 3rd Place Winners--The Monkeys

And the hosts for the evening--The White Winnings

The score board

Let the games begin...Keith BLEW this game out of the ball park in "This Blows"

The beautiful pregnant Laura (Brock is due next week!) had a tough time blowing up the balloon because of her lung capacity these days

Stacey is full of plenty of hot air

This is surprisingly harder than it looks as Craig found out

Brad is "Facing the Cookie" and tried to wink it into his mouth

Keith is trying the Keebler Pirate - definitely Haaaarrrrder than it Looks.

Caryn is playing "Nut Stacker". Lots of jokes here but none appropriate

Kristin's look of focus stacking the hex nuts off the chopstick

Yes - that is Spiderwoman (aka - Kristin). She dominated the "Bite Me" game

Caryn takes her turn. She did very well for just having twins

Given Laura's pregnancy, Brad took one for the team and was better than expected. He was by far the best guy that tried it (also the only guy)!

Stacey's game face while playing "Sticky Balls" where you try and get as many marbles stuck on tape at the end of the table.

Laura showing off her "Sticky Balls" skillz. Insert Joke Here.

Stacey enjoyed "Junk in the Trunk" more than anyone expected. The goal here is to shake as many ping pong balls as possible out of an empty tissue box. Here's a quick video of Stacey showing off his moves. Yes that is his wife Caryn cheering him on. WARNING - This video may not be appropriate for small children, women who are pregnant or might be pregnant, or those prone to seizures

What a fun night!! Love these people!

6th Year Anniversary

2011-07-27T12:54:00.000-07:00

We celebrated our 6th year of marriage last month (the day we headed to Horseshoe Bay), so we postponed our annual staycation in a hotel.

Friday night Julie's parents and grandmother came in town to visit and give us a night away. Caleb LOVED having his Mimi, Papa, and Great-Mimi in town and thought it was the biggest treat. On Saturday morning we went to the Galleria and explored the mall with a stroller, a wheel chair, and an energetic 2 year old. This was a sight to see! Once we got both boys down for a nap, we were ready...

We were incredibly blessed to receive a gift card to stay at the Crescent and enjoyed our night of luxury. Great Mimi and Julie's Mom came down to the hotel to see how beautiful it was (plus they dropped us off so that we could save $30+ and not pay to park the car at the hotel).

We got bored within the first 30 minutes in our room-which was the goal. We watched TV, read, walked around the shops near the hotel, enjoyed watching the elegant wedding guests arrive, explored the hotel, had a yummy dinner at Palomino, went swimming, turned the a/c down really low, and SLEPT IN until 9 am!!!

It was a wonderfully perfect way to celebrate our marriage-relaxing, remembering, and reconnecting.

This is the yummy treat from the hotel

The next day Mimi, Papa, and the boys came to pick us up and Caleb loved the escalator by the shops.

This is a picture of Caleb and Daddy playing on 2 air mattresses.

Thanks Mimi, Papa, and Great-Mimi for sacrificing your weekend, sleeping on an air mattress, for loving on our boys, and making this wonderful weekend possible! Caleb loved his time with you all and that is the best present in the world!

A Week in Austin

2011-07-22T13:15:00.000-07:00

Julie and the boys headed down to Austin for a week, so that Caleb could take swimming lessons. Not only did we have a great recommendation of a wonderful swim instructor, she was very affordable, it was a 5 day class (an hour a day), and it was a great excuse to spend an extended time in Austin seeing people we don't normally get to see during our whirlwind weekends.

The week was packed from play dates in the morning, to swimming around lunch time, to visiting friends in the afternoon, and swimming with Mimi and Papa in the evening. It was fun and we look forward to doing it again next summer!

Lori got to meet Davis. She was a bridesmaid in our wedding and pregnant with a little girl due in October

Our Second Annual Mother Daughter Dinner. Every month my mom goes out with some wonderful ladies that are my friends from high school's moms. So when I come in town they are so generous to plan their monthly outing to accommodate my schedule.

Here are the moms: Erin, Mrs. Winter, Andi, Mrs. Davison, Alissa, Mrs. Jones, my mom and me.

Our plans to meet Kristen and her sweet kids at the park for an early morning play didn't work out this time, but Caleb enjoyed the heat at 9 am! (Love his "lifegarden" whistle! Caleb was so attached to the "lifegardens" at the pool and looks up to them).

We met Susan, Emily, and Charlie at Chick-Fil-A, an indoor playground this day. Susan was a friend of mine from my life guarding days/hostessing at the country club/high school. They moved back to Austin from Dallas a few years ago and it was great to catch up with them.

Due to some fevers, only I got to visit with Vicki (a friend from Stanford).

Christalyn holding Faith, such a great big sister, babysitter, and great with all the little ones.

We took a cousin picture TJ (6), Davis (5 months), Christalyn (almost 8), Faith (15 months), Sarah (almost 4), and Caleb (almost 3)

Can you tell the boys LOVED dressing up?!?

And so did the girls. (which suckered sweet Mimi to buy more pictures).

We then celebrated with a corn dog and an evening swim. Love these kiddos and wish we could have spent more time with them.

Even Great-Mimi joined the fun with a corn dog poolside

So...on to the reason we went down to Austin...SWIMMING! Caleb loved swimming and wore his goggles to whole ride to the pool (despite being fogged up and not being able to see)

This was the second day of swimming and showing off his "shovel" hands

Thanks to Papa, I was able to sit with Caleb, help him on the side of the pool, and cheer for him in the water. Papa was a HUGE help and watched Davis so that I could give my full attention to the swimmer.

This is the look of fear on Day 3. Ms. Pam was such a strong love, very warm but gave them the sternness that they needed to overcome their emotions. The first couple of days were really hard (more so for me) to see Caleb (and the other little ones) cry and not want to go swimming but by the fourth day he was jumping in the deep end and swimming to the ladder, jumping in the water, turning around, and swimming back to the side. Her whole goal was to teach them how to survive if they fell in. By the fifth day he was swimming around Ms. Pam and passed!! It was a great week and we are so glad we did it!

Turning around and swimming to the side of the pool

The reach...it is a little tough to see them trying so hard under water to reach the side of the pool and the relief/excitement when they get it! (I guess that will be said a few more times as they get older and we watch them try, fail, get hurt, want to give up, then succeed.)

Papa probably could have taught Caleb the same things Ms. Pam did. Thanks to his years of life guarding, swimming in high school, teaching us, swim teams, his patience-it was great that Caleb had Papa to help practice in the evenings. It was the reinforcement that he needed! Thanks again Papa for everything.

Daddy came in town on Friday night and Caleb couldn't wait to get in the pool on Saturday morning to show Daddy all that he learned. Caleb is swimming to the steps all by himself!

Daddy sitting on the side of the pool watching Caleb swim with Ms. Pam

What a fun week-Thanks to Ms. Pam! On Caleb's last day of swim class, Caleb had his Fan Club there. Mammy we appreciate you driving so far to come see our boy swim. That meant so much to us that you would show your support. Sorry we couldn't not have spent more time with you.

Silly boy wearing 4 hats

Thanks Mimi for a great week. I was a little anxious about not having Daddy around to help with the kids but I appreciate all the work you did to bathe, feed, calm, and give constant love to us during the week.

Thanks again Papa for ALL you did-when Mimi was at work you really stepped in and helped us out SO SO SO much. I could not have survived the week without you.

Horseshoe Bay

2011-07-12T11:11:00.000-07:00

This was our 3rd annual Horseshoe Bay vacation with Craig's family and we have so much fun. There is no agenda, just a lot of having fun, swimming, special time with the cousins, relaxing, yummy food, and more swimming. It is such a laid back atmosphere and we are so grateful that we get to make some wonderful memories with our family.

Caleb LOVED the water, he was fearlessly jumping in the water (to keep up with his cousins)

A quick swimming break to hydrate

The MeDad Train with Lucy

Bubbles with Mammy and the cousins

Davis was indifferent about the water. Aunt K10 is enjoying some time-this was his only time in the water.

This year we were there during the week and we pretty much had the pool to ourselves-it was so nice. But our party of 8 adults and 8 kids took over quickly.

Precious!

Lucy is such a sweet helper with Davis (and Caleb)

Brock waited so patiently for his turn

These boys are just adorable and they just loved their newest member of the family. The Geez kids have such a sweet joy for life-I just want to eat them up they are just precious. We miss them already!

Sadly, this is the only picture we have of Aunt Julie holding Davis.

Davis soaked up all the attention-he loved it!

Relaxing with MeDad

Mammy time

I have to say again just how great, patient, and loving Lucy was with Caleb

I am just so sad that this is the only cousin picture we have. Meal time is the only time that they are still long enough for a picture

I just want to put this little punkin in my pocket and take her home

Brock and Lucy look tired after a long day in the water

Soccer with MeDad and Daddy

Zach's 7th and Ava's 3rd Birthday Celebration

Scuba Caleb

Thank you Mammy and MeDad for another great vacation and wonderful memories. We miss you all already and look forward to the next time we all get together again.