Swim Lessons

Now that Ej's not studying in every waking hour we have had the time to finally do some things we've wanted to do for a long time. One of those things is to get Tori in swim lessons. She was ecstatic about the idea. I was a little nervous at her first lesson since in the past she has shown some slight hesitations. As soon as we stepped foot into the building my fears were gone. She couldn't wait to get into the water and spent the entire lesson with an ear to ear grin plastered to her face.She has loved getting to play in the water, getting sprinkled and splashed. At her second lesson it was time to jump into the water to the waiting instructor. She was a little nervous about that and wanted to hold a hand as she jumped. I was very proud of her for jumping in, even if she wanted a little help (I still can't jump in). After class we talked about practicing next time jumping without help. She informed us that her feet just didn't want to jump. Hopefully with a little continued gentle encouragement she can conquer that little fear. I sometimes can't quite believe how independent my little girl is becoming.

Big Girl Bed

(view from doorway)

We took the plunge a week ago and decided to get Kayla her own bed. I was a little hesitant since the girls share a room, but Kayla has loved playing on Tori's bed. We spent an afternoon at IKEA and got an identical bed to the one we got Tori when she turned 2. I love the way the beds work together in their bedroom, and both girls are thrilled with the new bed. Kayla hasn't had many issues (yet) with sleeping in her new bed, and she seems to be tickled with the notion of being able to get out of bed on her own when she wakes up. Here are a few pictures of the girls new bedroom, and of Kayla sleeping in her bed for the first time.

Tori's side of the room

Kayla's side of the room

Easter Weekend

Saturday of Easter weekend was a jam-packed day for us. We started the day with Easter festivities at the church where Tori attends pre-school. There were egg hunts, face painting, and a visit with the Easter bunny.

Kayla wasn't quite sure what to do when it came to picking up eggs; Tori had a ball racing through the field as fast as she could go, scooping up eggs as she went.

Tori wanted to do every activity available, including sitting with the Easter Bunny - her first time EVER of willful contact with said character (or any character, for that matter)

Once at home we continued with an egg hunt in our back yard, and opening of Easter baskets.

After an exciting, fun, and candy filled morning, it was time to head to IKEA with Papa in order to get Kayla's big-girl bed. Pics to come.

My Little Diva

Happy Birthday Baby Girl!

2 years old already!

Wordless Wednesday - Pigtails @ 22 months

Kayla

Tori

Wordless Wednesday - Halloween Ladybugs

Preschool Pictures

I am quite pleased at how Tori's pictures turned out. She's gone through a shy stage and often doesn't want to smile for pictures, especially for strangers. Needless to say I was a little concerned at how her first portraits, without mom and dad, would turn out. I love it! Can you believe how long her hair is getting?

Wordless Wednesday - Together

Seattle Tradition Part 2 (better late than never)

At the park for Jilly's birthday celebration: Fun friends, fun family,

fun food, fun rain, fun gifts...fun time!

The next day was the Mariners game. The highlight being a chance for the girls to run the bases after the game. After waiting in line and walking forever through the stadium, the girls finally spotted the entrance to the field and they were OFF Excited to meet and greet 'the key' (KeyBank sponsored the event) Tori has always been very apprehensive (if not terrified) of large costumed 'things'. She remained a little timid when it came to seeing the key, but to my surprise she actually walked up and gave it a hug. Then to continue around the bases to her daddy waiting near home plate.

Fun With Bikes

Seattle Tradition, 6 years strong (part 1)

Early in August we had our annual trip to the Seattle area to take in a Mariner's game with the Mattos family. We've gone for at least the last 6 years and always have a blast. This time we were also celebrating Jillian's 4th birthday with a trip to the Pt. Defiance Zoo and Aquarium and picnic in the park. As usual it was a wonderful weekend with the best of friends making more terrific memories.

The fun began after we arrived at Mandy's dad's house. He graciously opened his home for us once again. The guys had some good conversation over scotch and cigars (another tradition in itself)

The next morning, despite forecasts of rain we all headed out to the zoo for a fun filled morning. The fish tanks were a huge hit with the girls,

as was the touch tanks.

We had to take advantage of a lagoon area for some photo ops:

After looking at the attractions, (baby tigers, playing polar bears, lazy walruses), we had some fun before leaving the zoo and heading to the park.