Sugar and Spice and Puppy Dog Tails

Birthday Babies!!!!

2010-10-12T19:27:00.000-07:00

Caden turned four years old this past Monday! He has been so excited about his birthday and especially excited to have a party with his friends at school in Mrs. Christy's class. He LOVES him some Spiderman so we made Spiderman cupcakes and had a little party. He was so cute and excited! He had made invitations for all his friends and passed them out the morning of the party. SO SWEET! I love that little man!

There were several children absent the day of the party so Jordan was invited to sit next to his big bro and join in the fun!

Caden and Jordan getting "Spiderwebs" all over their little faces.

Chase, of course, enjoyed my Spiderman creation immensely!!

Jordan playing with his party favors after the party while we waited for Amaya to get out of school!

Papa and Nana sent both Amaya and Caden gift cards to do some shopping for their birthdays. Amaya will be eight on the 18th and we are having her party this coming Friday night so pictures will be posted after that. Amaya was given a gift card to Barnes and Noble (PERFECT FOR HER) and Caden to Toys 'R Us. We went to Barnes and Noble first and she was SO happy to find an entire section of Magic Tree House books.

Searching for books!

She made her choices and used her gift card and paid herself. She had me stand back and watch.

Now, it was Caden's turn. This toy display was of a talking caveman and you pushed a button to see what the toy (that cost $119.00 YIKES!) could do. Caden jumped about ten feet in the air when the caveman started shouting and turning flips and was a little wary of getting any closer.

I told you...that kid LOVES Spiderman! He picked a Spiderman Web Blaster and mask so now he can blast his family with spiderwebs all day long.

The sun was in his eyes. This is Caden after his shopping trip where he paid using his gift card himself without any help from mom and dad. He was also quite proud of himself. What a big guy!

The kids had a BLAST getting to do their own shopping and we had fun watching them.
Thanks Papa and Nana!!! We can't wait to see you guys!!

ZOO

2010-09-29T14:19:00.000-07:00

Wednesdays are half-price days at the zoo and for our family that means it costs us $26 to go to the zoo and park in the zoo parking lot. Not too shabby when you think of how much EVERYTHING else costs for a family of five. We took Amaya out of school early and headed to the zoo as a special surprise trip for both Amaya and Caden's upcoming birthdays in October.
Amaya would have had me take a picture of her with every single animal out there if she could have talked me into it. Here are the children with the tortoise.

Jordan inside the MOLA (Museum of Living Art)

Caden wanted a picture of him "sitting on" the snake.

All three looking at the turtles swimming underwater.

Very cool. Although I have a sneaking suspicion that he never actually saw the snake.

Had to get an official MOLA pic for Amaya's Zoo Scrapbook

Inside the stagecoach in the Texas section. Note: Amaya is wearing her tiger shirt and tiger print headband in honor of our trip to the zoo.

Caden looking up into the water.

Then Amaya jumped in and Caden wasn't too sure about sharing his "water spot"
Amaya is holding a book that Grandma Pat bought her a few months ago from Barnes and Noble. It's called "Critters" and it's a guide to all the "critters" found in Texas. At the back there is a section where you can check off the animals you've seen and when and where you saw them. She was able to check A LOT of her animals off after visiting the Texas section and she was SO excited!

This was supposed to be a picture of everyone with the Bald Eagle for Duke since that is his favorite bird. However, you can't really see him so it just turns about to a cute pic of Chase and the kids.
The boys and I. Getting toward the end of trip and starting to feel a little tired and sleepy. Also, Jordan decided he needed to wear his "ba-pack" for the rest of the trip.

Jordan was the first one to spot the Texas Longhorn and the Paint horse but then started looking at his shoe before I could catch a shot of him pointing.

Caden's favorite part: the GORILLAS! He wanted his picture with the gorilla before we left and it was one of the last things we did. He was very happy.

I love the zoo when it's not a thousand degrees and without a thousand other people. It wasn't crowded and it was just a beautiful fun day with my family. The kids LOVE animals. I don't get it but I can certainly appreciate it. ;)

Sea World 2010

2010-09-27T18:14:00.000-07:00

All loaded up and ready for some SEA WORLD!!

Jordan got so excited he fell asleep.

Caden (who never REALLY sleeps) was ready for some fun!

We checked in at the hotel and headed straight to Sea World.

Little Jordy was "aaah'ed" by the fish.

Amaya was an excellent tour guide.

We had planned to stay and catch the nighttime Shamu show but the rain was too much for these little ones and so we had to leave for the day.

The next morning we hit our (2nd)favorite breakfast spot: IHOP before heading back to Sea World.

Jordan was so excited that this time he couldn't sit still.

And that wasn't stressing Chase at all. Doesn't that smile look genuine?

You can't see them but that is the first roller coaster ride for Caden and the first for both Caden and Amaya to ride without an adult.

I could not stand the thought of playing in HOT sand when it was already a thousand degrees so I graciously decided to let Chase spend this special time with the kids while I stayed OUT of the sand pit.

It's like she doesn't even notice the heat. Sweet girl.

Caden too.

If my camera had been aimed a little more to the left it would have been a PERFECT shot of Amaya feeding the dolphin. Still, not too shabby.

Caden wanted to buy fish to feed the dolphins with his OWN money from his OWN wallet.

Having a blast and loving each other (for the moment).

Searching for a dolphin.

The Lost Lagoon in the water park section.

We tried to talk the child into heading over to a different more age-appropriate area so she could actually get her entire body wet. AND this is what she opted to do instead.

Jordan loved the water and the slide.

Jordan's first movie experience "Toy Story 3". He made it through half of the movie before Chase had to take him out but I blame the forty minutes of previews we had to endure before the movie even started. I think he would have made it through if we'd just been there for the movie part.

Where's Jordan???!!

THERE HE IS!

His favorite part of the trip: the hotel room closet.

We love Sea World and we LOVE San Antonio. We had a blast and are so blessed to have grandparents that want to send us on vacation. THANKS GRAM! And thanks Duke and Nana for the spending money for the kids.

What A Doll!

2010-04-08T07:54:00.000-07:00

Amaya has been diligently working on an independent study project for several weeks now. Each student was told they could pick the toy or game of their choice to study and to learn the process they did a group study project over Silly Putty. They even got a chance to make their own Silly Putty.
(On a side not let me just tell you that Silly Putty is not half as fun as it used to be because they've changed the ink they use to print newspapers and it does NOT come off on the Silly Putty anymore. Maybe I should get myself a Thrifty Nickel or a Greensheet. I bet they use the old-fashioned stuff.)

So, Amaya decided she would study dolls. Not Barbies. Not Cabbage Patch Kids. Just, dolls.

Wow, Amaya! What a broad topic you have picked!

So, we researched on the Internet, purchased an extremely creepy book about dolls at Half-Price books and began learning oh so very much about dolls. Here's where we came upon a slight problem. The first sub-topic she was asked to research was the origin of the toy or games she chose to study. Do you know what the origin of the doll is? I do. The first dolls were used as symbols of the gods (i.e. idols) or to ward off demons. I have no problem with Amaya having this knowledge and learning everything she can about history or the way things work. The problem was in how to put this information in a format suitable for a first - grade study project. Many of our sources referred to the origin of dolls as either pagan or demonic. We finally decided to stick to the facts as we knew them and press on with the project.
A speech, a tri-fold board and a product.
Those are all the things that had to be a part of this project. It was a big undertaking and it took us quite a while to get it done.
She worked hard. She was so excited about what she was learning and she really didn't seem to get tired or bored with the work. I mean, we both got a little touchy that last night trying to finish the tri-fold board and I must confess that a lot of that was my fault. I have such a hard time letting Amaya own things. I have problems letting her be in the kitchen. Sometimes even in her own room. And, I most certainly had to hold my tongue and let this be Amaya's project. Not Mommy's. So, Amaya and I both had a learning experience thanks to this project.
Also, I would just like to add, I am very pleased (thrilled) that we are done. She is the first grade. We have such a LONG way to go. Fun. Three kids. Awesome.

She keeps on smiling. So proud of that kid!

Caden was his ever helpful self. We learned after many frustrating evenings that it was better to let Amaya stay up just a little bit later than usual and work on things AFTER Caden was in bed.

Studying her book and learning how to make clothespin dolls.

Working with Chase on her speech. He was a very agreeable secretary.

Our finished "product". Clothespin dolls. Amaya can't get that in her head and keeps refering to them as paper clip dolls. She's so cute.

"Night of the Experts" is Tuesday, April 13, 2010 in the Deer Creek Elementary cafeteria beginning at 6:30 p.m.
Amaya's tri-fold board and product will be displayed for all to see.

Pictures will definitely be posted and hopefully a blog about the experience.

Happy Bunny Day!!

2010-04-04T19:46:00.000-07:00

Easter 2010

Okay, it's not much information but just a small glimpse of how our day went. Taking the time to import, upload and caption pictures is about all the time I have for blogging right now.

Happy Easter!!

Easter baskets before the kids attacked.

Nana and Amaya at Carino's

Sadie loves her some Duke

I don't know. But, it sure is cute.

Of course Buddy had to come spend Easter eggs with us.

I don't think I will ever get one with all three looking at the camera and smiling.

Jordan Casey Russell turns 1!

2010-01-21T13:35:00.000-08:00

Jordy and I showing each other the love.

He's so happy that there is going to be cake soon!

Hmm...I'll just have a little taste.

Wow, this is pretty good. Maybe just a little more.

Yeah, cake is awesome!

Happy Birthday to my sweet Jordy boy! You have changed our lives so much and we wouldn't be the same without you. What a sweet, loving and happy little boy you are!

Boo Fall Funival Fest Carnival

2009-11-01T15:13:00.000-08:00

Sadie is driving people bananas!

Rrrroarrr!! Jordan the lion.

Buzz Lightyear has a strange smile.

Amaya: The Queen of NaughtyHam.

Nana and Caden. They love!

Caden helps Aunt Karen blow out her birthday candles.

Caden spent some special quality time with Amy this weekend.

Amaya did not hold back when it came to putting her hands in and pulling out the pumpkin goop.

Pumpkin carving is gross.

Caden was a little more timid.

We had an exciting, fun, tiring and long weekend together with family. Nana and Papa were able to come in from Mexico for a week long visit. Uncle Jay, Aunt Sherry, Meagan and Ryan were visiting from Lubbock. Our cousin Ian drove in from A&M. SO lots of family and lots of food and lots of good times. We ate dinner together Friday night and much thanks to Papa and Nana who cooked a TON of good authentic Mexican food that was quite delicioso! Saturday we celebrated Aunt Karen's birthday and we also celebrated Nana's birthday a little early since we won't see her in December on her actual birthday. Then, we ended the night with some trick 0r treating with Papa and Nana. Amaya was totally into it and so was Caden until we got to some houses with some scary guys. Caden was done and so we went home pretty quickly. It was such a good weekend and I am happy to have spent such a good time with such good family and friends.

Park it!

2009-10-26T05:43:00.000-07:00

We have been enjoying our close proximity to two different park recently and having a wonderful time just being together and being outside. The kids love it and we love playing with them and getting to see them discover new things about their world and about themselves.

Celebration!!

2009-10-19T10:14:00.000-07:00

Jordan is ready to party.

Amaya and her good friend, Madison.

Sweet Sadie trying to eat her hand.

Daddy and Jordy!

Nana blowing a wierd kiss?? and Caden with his hot dog.

Blowing out the candles on his Lightning McQueen cake.

Amaya blowing out the candles on her Hannah Montana cupcakes.

Amaya and Aunt Amy.

Duke feeds Jordan some yummy cake.

Being so patient and very ready to start opening gifts.

Emma watching Amaya.

Caden opens his Buzz Lightyear toy. He just stood there staring at it. I don't think he could believe he actually got one. Thanks Aunt Karen!

Love that yellow bow!

Chrissa, Amaya's American Girl doll. A definite favorite.
Thanks to Duke and Nana!

Boys playing the keyboard.

We partied at the park and started early. The pavillion is first come, first serve and we didn't want to miss out on a covered area with picnic tables for the party. Chase and I got the kids and all the stuff to the park by 9:51 that morning. No problems, no one was there but some cross-country runners. It was an absolutely gorgeous day to be outside! We started partying around 11:00 and had a big ol' blast! Dad made his very popular and rapidly becoming famous chili and we had hot dogs and Frito pie. Mom and Dad did so much to help us with this party and we are so thankful! What a fam have we!
Friends and family just had a good time being together, eating and enjoying the wonderful weather.

Thanks to all who made it. We love sharing these special times with you all.

They Just Keep Growing!

2009-10-19T09:42:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday, October 11, my boy turned three years old. There are times when it seems like time was dragging by S-L-owly (i.e. when I was 8 months pregnant and chasing my two year old) but, of course, now it all seems like it's gone by so fast. Caden is hilarious, intelligent, gorgeous, FUN, sweet and loving. He still likes to sit in my lap and give sweet kisses and hugs. He likes to give all variety of kisses: eskimo, forehead, mouth and his favorite BUTTERFLY. Chase likes to ask him what time it is because the answer is always, "84." Caden is a music-lover. He loves to dance to it, listen to it and play it. He got a keyboard for his birthday and it has been among his favorite gifts. He loves his family and he loves his friends. His question at bedtime every night is, "What are we getting up for tomorrow?" He wants to know the plan and he wants it to be a fun one. He loves to go go go!! Visiting family and friends, going to the park or just going for a walk in the stroller are some of his favorite times. OH! and of course he's always up for a Wal-Mart trip.

Caden is our precious, strong-willed, often difficult blessing from God and we just wouldn't be the same without him. We love you sweet Cadey-Tatey!!

Amaya Grace is SEVEN years old. Yesterday (Sunday) was her official birthday and she woke up happy and ready for her special day. Amaya is fabulous, gifted, funny, thoughtful, kind, smart, gracious and beautiful. She loves school and reading. Her reading improves weekly and we are so happy and excited to have another avid reader in the family. She loves to go to the library and heads straight for the non-fiction section to find as many books as she can about as many different animals as she can. She is constantly surprising us with her wit and intelligence. She loves her family and spending time together. She also loves playing with her friends. She is an artist who most often uses her talents to make cards and other gifts for those she loves. One of her favorite pasttimes is spending time on the computer playing with her Webkinz or just playing games. She loves with all that she has and is and sometimes just doesn't have the means to sufficiently express that love.
Amaya is our gorgeous, sensitive and precious first baby. We've learned so much from Amaya and are truly, truly blessed to call her our daughter.

First days, teeth and frowns.

2009-10-02T18:47:00.000-07:00

Amaya and Mrs. Alexander on "Meet the Teacher" night. I did take pictures of the first day of school but they were with my phone and I'm pretty sure that my dad would yell at me if he know how many pictures have actually been taken with the phone and not the camera. So all these are CAMERA pictures!

Caden on HIS first day of school! He was all set with his "Lightning A-keen" backpack. His teacher, Ms. Katie, is so sweet and Caden LOVES her and wants her to come to "Taden's house to play".

Sweet Jordy boy! It took forever to get a picture that wasn't blurry from his constant moving but we did it and he's gorgeously adorable, I think!

Amaya lost her first top tooth. She's so proud of her hole and kind of sad that we lost the tooth just hours after having pulled it.

I had to stick this pic in because it cracks me up. Caden and Grace frowning at each other. I don't know why they were frowning but it's pretty funny.

So, I've got two in school for at least two days a week and little Jordy at home with me. I should probably stop calling him Jordy but I just can't. I should definitely have stopped calling Caden "Cadey" long before I did.

Amaya is loving school and reading like C-razy. I'm so proud of her and I hope she will always have a love for books like she does now.

Not a lot of storytelling this post, but pictures are worth more than words sometimes, right?

Firecracker Firecracker BoomBoomBoom

2009-07-06T12:33:00.000-07:00

Now THAT is impressive: all three kids facing the same direction (in this case the camera's direction) with eyes open and two out of three smiles.

Okay, I don't know how this face came to be. I've never seen it before and I'll probably never see it again, but how cute and funny!! He loves to hold his "little bro".

Amaya was so excited to go to "Grammy-with-the-birds" birthday party. We all call her Nana, but since Amaya calls me my mom Nana she decided to call MY Nana "Grammy-with-the-birds" because she has birds in her room at the retirement center. So, for the purposes of THIS post I will refer to her as Nana because the other takes too long to type. My Nana had her 89th birthday party on July 4. It is her actual birthday. Since 1900 one woman in my family has been born every 20-22 years. My great-great grandmother was born in January of 1900. My Nana was born in July of 1920. My grandmother was born in December of 1941. My mother was born in September of 1960. I was born in December of 1981 and Amaya was born in October of 2002.
Happy Birthday, Nana!! We love you!

Daddy trying to make Caden show him some love. Caden was too busy eating cake, drinking punch, and eating candy.

Nana so proud to have her family all with her at one time. She was able to show us all off to her friends because we had her birthday party in the party room of her retirement center and invited all the residents to come have cake and punch.

Jordan and Duke taking it all in.

Amaya was glued to Nana. She had a lot to say and Nana had open ears for every word that came out of Amaya's mouth. What a sweet and patient listener.

Little Sadie's first big outing. What a sweetie! Her little "Fourth of July" outfit was just too big so the next best thing?? PINK!!

This is the first time that Nana got meet Sadie. I think the words coming out of her mouth went something like, "Oh!! Bless her little heart!" Sadie is Nana's fourth great-great grandchild.

One proud Nana!

Caden, Emma, Amaya and Charlie. Cousins!

I LOVE this picture. They look so happy and proud. Three of my favorite women of all time!

That night, after the party, we went back to my parent's house for a cookout and fireworks. Amaya has decided that she and Duke have a special Fourth of July tradition. They go together to pick out fireworks and it's something special I think for both of them. Duke let Amaya help him light a few this year. She was so cute and excited!

Caden and Nana staying SAFELY behind a door. Caden was absolutely TERRIFIED of the fireworks, even the sparklers. He did not enjoy it AT ALL! So, he stayed inside and watched for a little while, but when that got to be too much he settled down on the couch to watch The Wiggles with Nana while we finished up outside.

Amaya was so excited she was jumping up and down. She had such a fun time. We all did.
It was a LONG day and we were definitely ready for bed that night.
Thank God for the blessings of family and friends!

Happy Independence Day!

June Bugs!

2009-07-05T18:49:00.001-07:00

This is Jordan meeting Sadie for the first time. I don't think he knew what she was. It was very cute. If I'd been thinking I would have taken some video because he was talking to her. Sweet babies!!

Duke and Jordan spending some time together at Amy and Robby's house.

Jordan had his six month check up last month and he is one TALL kid. He was in the 75th percentile in weight (18.1 lbs.) and in the 100th percentile in height.

June went by so fast and I can't seem to remember much except that Sadie was born and all my kids were fed, bathed and otherwise well taken care of. But, that's okay. I'll remember the big stuff and maybe if I had blogged a little more often I would have more memories of what was going on this past month.

Caden holding Jordan's hand. Caden is like a the flip of a coin. Heads: He is sweet and loving a oh so very careful with his "Jordy boy". Tails: He wants to cover Jordan's head with blankets and pillows and try to bend him in ways he won't go. Oh to be a two-year old again!
This month I walked into the kitchen (after being gone for about three minutes) to find Jordan with a handlebar moustache. Apparently the placements I had bought at the Dollar Spot for the big kids came with dry erase markers. So, Caden made good use of his by giving Jordan a moustache and a few curli-Qs on top of his head. Jordan was in hi BUMBO at the time and I couldn't find my camera. It was so funny (after I took the time to look for camera and the irritation had a chance to subside).
This month I returned to my bedroom to find Caden in Jordan's bed feeding him Pop-tarts. It was kind of amazing that Jordan did actually get some little bits and ate them quite capably.
This month Caden was playing with Jordan and had the cutest smile on his face when he leaned over to say, "Hey there little buckaroo!"
This month Amaya has completely amazed me with her reading!! She'll be reading me a book and a word will come up that I'm pretty sure she'll need help with and she just breezes right through it. No problems whatsoever!! She is a very fluent and expressive reader.

This is Amaya and Conner at Heidi's baby shower. She was helping him get his fruit fix and maybe a little 5 and 6 year old "flirting" was taking place ;) They are both unique, thoughtful and inquistive kids. Rachel and I have both mentioned how much they have in common. I definitely hope he is a friend for a long time!! But, being a Preacher's Kid we'll see how that goes ;)

Oh Jordy Boy! Little Buckaroo! Jordy Pordy!

Not The Mama!

2009-06-22T17:21:00.000-07:00

I AM AN AUNT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Jennifer, Caden, Amaya and SADIE!! Cousins!!

So proud of her little Sadie girl!! Finally another girl!!

Sadie Holcomb Fryar was born Monday, June 22, 2009 at 8:42 a.m. Amy and Robby arrived at the hospital just a little before 8:00 a.m. Amy is awesome and amazing. No time for pain medicine and she only pushed for about 5 minutes. Pretty good first time delivery!! Sadie weighed 7 lbs. and 1 oz. She was 20 1/4 in. long. She has dark blonde hair (for now) and she is beautiful.

Okay, that paragraph was supposed to come before the pictures, but I don't have time to play with Blogger today. It's actually quite irritating.

Amy introducing her Sadie-girl to the cousins!

Two VERY interested little ones and a very nervous newborn ;) And, if she's not nervous yet.....she should be.

Little Sadie looks like Little Amy

Look at those eyes! It was the first time I really saw her good and awake.

The old, baby-holdin' pro!

One Of These Is Just Like the Other!

2009-05-11T19:16:00.000-07:00

Okay. No one can say they don't see the resemblance. The top pic is Amaya and the bottom one is of Jordan. Pretty cool, huh?

Amaya was very much into Mother's Day this year. She's been making plans with Nana for a while now and the planning becamse quite intense this past week. Friday night Amaya spent the night with Duke and Nana so that she and Nana could get up Saturday morning and make blueberry pancakes and come over to our house bringing me breakfast in bed. I actually had been up for a while (thanks, Caden) and had fallen back asleep on the couch when Amaya and Nana showed up with pancakes!! So sweet! Amaya woke me up by singing me the song she wrote for me (sung from the page she had written a staff, music notes and the words on). She was so excited and it was really sweet. And, because she is my child, none of it was really a surprise because that kid cannot keep a secret. She also gave me my gift (yes, there was more) Saturday night because she just could not wait until Sunday morning: Bath and Body Works foot scrub, lotion and socks. Caden and Jordan were mentioned in the cards she wrote and made for me but they were just kind of the back-up singers to Amaya's DIVA party and occassion planning. She is currently planning a "summer party" for which she is composing songs and music for Me, Debra, Chris and Heidi to sing. She would like us to go to her Gram's house and sing these songs that she is writing in honor of Amy's unborn child, Sadie. That's the best explanation I can give of what is going on in her head. I don't think it is sufficient enough for Amaya's grand plans!

Sunday we had a Mother's Day lunch at my mom and dad's house. My great-grandmother, grandmother, great-aunt, aunt, mom, sister and myself were the moms. Wow. There were a lot of us. It was Amy's first Mother's Day and she is so cute. I wish I had a picture of her, but if you want to see her cute pregnant self look here. We had lunch and then my boys, both of them, took a nice long nap. It was lovely. I watched Journey To The Center of the Earth with my parents and it was very nice to just sit.

So, YEA for Mother's Day and getting to be still for a while.

Death of A Cell Phone

2009-04-28T10:03:00.000-07:00

Jordan and Caden.

Amaya, Rylie and Torie at Chili's. There's really no chance of getting too many pictures of Amaya with her eyes actually open.

And, my former cell phone.

Caden likes to play with cell phones.
Caden likes to hide things in the oven.

Our Week In Pictures

2009-04-23T18:48:00.000-07:00

Jordan got to play in the ExcerSaucer for the first time this week. He seems to like it. But, he does tend to spit-up more when he's in there so we don't stay in it for more than 10 or 15 minutes at a time. He's figuring out how to push the buttons to make the music play.

Caden LOVES his "Mai-Mai" and is huggin' up next to her while she plays her Webkinz.

Jordan is finally in a real live crib!! I absolutely cannot find the bumper pads that I used with Caden. I have everything else and I can't remember what I did with them. So, Jordan's first night in the crib there was a little bit of waking up because his arm or leg kept falling through the slats. Dad came to my rescue (yet again) and got Jordan his own bumper pads, crib sheet and blanket. It was very cute stuff as you can see! Thanks Dad!

This is Caden holding his little cousin Raegan. She was born in November and we hadn't had a chance to really meet her until recently. She is a sweetie and Caden was very sweet with her.

And, OH! what a surprise: Jordan is smiling and laughing.

We have been hanging out at home a lot this week. I think Caden gets tired of always being here so I'm trying to find ways to keep him happy and entertained. It's not easy but we're figuring some things out. He's still doing pretty well with the potty thing. Still no "Number 2" in the potty but I've heard that's harder for little boys. He's spending as much time in his underwear as possible. In fact, I've forgotten a few times and we've gone out in underwear and there have been no accidents outside of the house. For the most part he's using the potty and not his underwear. Very impressed with him.

Amaya is getting to school on time thanks to Duke and we are always excited when it's time to go pick her up. She's reading so well and it always surprises me that she knows so many words. She got to go with us to Chuck E. Cheese yesterday with Grandma Pat and Aunt Karen and I know she has such a good time. It was good to spend some time together and play some games and get our pictures taken. She was given all the tickets the boys won last time we went and the tickets from yesterday. It was over three hundred tickets and Caden told her he didn't want them. When she went to redeem them for prizes she kept Caden in mind and got him some little stickers and a sucker. Always the thoughtful girl.

Chase is working away at his permanent sub job. He really enjoys doing something that involves his brain and not just mindless repetition like it was at General Motors. He really seems to care about these kids and I'm happy he's found something to be so excited about everyday. It's not always easy but he's really doing an awesome job. He's so much happier. We all are. He's interviewed for a permanent postion next year and I really hope he gets one at the school he's at now. He's making lesson plans and doing all the grades and class discipline himself and it is taking up a lot of time. He was kind of thrown into the fire and I think he's handled it well.

So, not a real "red-letter" or super exciting week but it's been a good one. We're happy and excited that it's almost the weekend! Hope everyone has a happy weekend!!!

Underoos

2009-04-20T11:10:00.000-07:00

Well, Caden is working on using the potty. He decided he was interested and we are going with it. I should probably be more committed to it but the big boy bed is still very new and I don't know if it's a good idea to push both things at once. Tonight will be Caden's fourth night in his big boy bed. However, tonight is his first night in the particular bed that is in his room right now. Today, at some point, I believe when I was folding laundry, Caden decided to destory and dismantle his toddler bed. For many children this would be a fruitless and impossible task. But, not my son. He did it. It is not something that we can fix. Thick Little Tykes plastic was ripped today. Everything is good tonight. Caden is asleep in a twin bed. Jordan (poor sweet little baby) is snoring away in an actual crib. At the end of the day things worked out quite nicely. SHOUT OUT to Dad for the bed!

Caden in his big boy unna-wares.

Caden is actually sitting in Amaya's lap watching her play her PBS kids games.

Amaya and Conner doing what they both love to do! Catie looks on.

SHOUT OUT to Rachel for the birthday books!

My Grandma Pat, Aunt Karen, cousin Kaylan and Brandish treated Caden, Jordan and I to Chuck E. Cheese on Friday. Let me just say a rainy weekday in the middle of the day is a FABULOUS time to take little ones. I think Caden and Brandish were two of the oldest ones there. This is a picture of Caden on a "virtual" roller coaster. He did this game five times. He loved it! I have a video but it would've taken FOREVER to upload. Maybe on another day.

So, if you're also a Facebook buddy you might have already heard this little anecdote. But, for those of you who are not you will enjoy this immensely. Well, if you have a finely honed sense of humor as I do ;)

After picking up Amaya from school we were on our way to Wal-Mart and she was, of course, talking. A lot. But, she stopped and said to me, "Mom, I think we have a very smart family. I mean everyone is just so smart." Caden is sitting in the backseat and says, "Maya I poop in floor today."

Sweet little Jordy!! Irresistable!

Debra and I before worship Sunday morning. We are lovely ;)!!!!!!!

#1 Reason Why.....

2009-04-16T10:05:00.000-07:00

...I am so so thankful that Chase has a daytime job. Bedtime assistance!

Here Comes Peter Cottontail...

2009-04-13T07:58:00.000-07:00

We had ourselves a very busy Easter Sunday yesterday! It was fun and tiring and exciting and joyful!
Amaya woke up first and was so excited to check out what the Easter Bunny had left and could harldy wait to get Caden out of his "crib jail" so we could go see everything. She helped me pull him out of his bed while he's yelling, "Easter Bunny! Easter Bunny!" They liked looking through their baskets and were very excited to see that the Easter Bunny had also left an egg hunt in the living room.

In this picture Caden is laughing and saying, "Silly Easter Bunny! He put eggs on TV!"

Caden's way of egg hunting is to sit down after each egg, open it and immediately eat whatever he finds. He got better as the day progressed.

I LOVE this one! Love those smiles!!

And a true representation of the fact that these kids are MINE!

Chase and I were the nursery workers this morning during worship and got to spend some good quality time with Caden, Ryan, Grace, Jordan, Joey, Hudson, Kylie and Kylie's mommy, Jill. The kids were really cute and there were some fussy moments with some of the little ones as well as some moments where we had to get on to the older boys (Caden and Ryan were at one point wrestling in the floor) but it was a good morning and we were definitely blessed to get to spend our morning with such sweet babies.

After church we went to my parent's to eat some sub sandwiches and just chill until it was time to go to the Easter Egg Hunt at their church. Caden decided to spend his time playing "pnano" and singing "Tinkle Star". He's a musical prodigy!

Amaya and Nana enjoying a quick hug while they're waiting for cookies to finish baking.

Then, it was time to leave for the egg hunt. We were riding in my parent's car because Chase took our car home with Jordan to take a nap. So, we had to leave early since my parent's were helping with set up. So, I spent a VERY LONG hour trying to keep Caden from getting into the Easter eggs that were being hid, keep Caden from grilling his hand or other body parts on the grill outside where they were making hot dogs and hamburgers and keep Caden from going into every classroom and pulling everything out. It was fun and this picture is an excellent example of what too much stimulation and too much sugar can do to a child like Caden.

So, the Easter Egg hunt began and my dad had instructed all the kids to get twelve eggs and then make sure everyone was able to have twelve eggs before getting more. Amaya took those instructions to heart because she did not want someone else to do without eggs. So, she stopped at twelve while not many others did. It was very sweet and I am so proud of her loving and generous heart. What a beautiful girl!

Caden did his egg hunting with the "three and unders" in the playground with Nana. He is a very good egg finder (as is Amaya) so they did not inherit the "egg blindness" that my sis Amy has. Easter was always a very hard time for Amy. She could never find the eggs and there are many pictures of the three sisters with Jennifer and I standing there with full baskets smiling away and Amy very sad with her very pathetic basket of two or three eggs. Poor Amy! If only she'd had a sister more like Amaya.

My favorite picture of the day!!

At the end of the day I realized there were not pictures of Jordan and none of the three all together. I gave it my best shot and this is the best one I could get. Still, not too bad!

HAPPY EASTER!!!!
Love,
Chase, Becca, Amaya, Caden and Jordan!

The Boys! The Boys!

2009-04-09T08:15:00.000-07:00

Sweet little Jordy!! He is the smilin-est baby that I ever did see! He can be so hungry and crying and unhappy and if you smile at he will stop and smile back. I think he's awesome!

Amaya and Caden were playing outside Sunday evening and decided to make themselves some beds. Amaya started gathering leaves to make her bed (it was already messed up by the time I got my camera and got out there) and she spent some time laying on her "bed" and looking up into the trees. Caden decided to make it simple and grabbed a roofing shingle for his bed. He also needed a his blankie and he was happy to do some sky gazing through the trees as well.

Still lovin' his bouncy...especially now that it's the place he sits and gets fed yummy food. Jordan is REALLY enjoying his rice cereal, applesauce, pears, bananas, oatmeal and as of last night sweet potatoes. Feeding him in the bouncy seat can get difficult because he gets so excited after each bite in anticipation of the next one that he makes the thing start bouncing like crazy and I have to be careful to get the bite in his mouth and not in his eye. He is enjoying his food so much and so thoroughly that I have decided to forgo the wasted time it takes to put a bib on the kid. Every bit goes into his tummy! It never get a chance to hit the bib.

Caden's new face. This is not a good representation of the actual face, but he has started making the funniest frowny face whenever he wants attention or when he doesn't agree with what we are doing. I've been told by Chase that he learned it from watching me when he's doing something I don't like. I don't know. I've never seen it on me, but I guess I'm not looking at myself that often am I? In this particular picture he's mad at me because I'm not putting Mickey Mouse Clubhouse on the television and instead trying to take his picture. Also (just FYI) I am currently watching "Mickey's Comet" episode with Caden as I write this blog. He won.

We got to spend a couple of days playing with Heidi and Ryan this week and I can't believe I didn't get any pictures! The boys favorite thing this week is to play guitars together and dance. It is really cute (and again! kickin' myself for not getting a picture of it)! They both enjoy apple juice and playing outside. Ryan prefers to shovel sand and carry it across the yard to pour into whatever he can find, while Caden likes swinging or trying to distract Ryan from his sand shoveling. I think they have fun together. They both like to dump toys out just for the fun of dumping something out!! It drives us moms a little crazy!

Amaya being at school is sometimes no fun! She's not here to play with us and when she gets home from school she likes an hour to kind of relax in her room. So, we are not getting a whole lot of Amaya time right now. We were together Monday because she had a dentist appointment to get a cavity filled. It had really been bothering her and I'm so glad it is fixed. She did so well at the dentist! They used nitrous on her and she said it smelled like grape and made her whole body feel like it was sleepy. She never mentioned any pain or even discomfort. I am loving this dentist and am excited we found this place. Caden has even had his first checkup and it was awesome the way they got him to do what they needed him to do.

So, not a busy week but it was a good one and I'm glad we got to enjoy it with good friends!!

Pizza Party

2009-04-04T07:58:00.000-07:00

Caden was diggin' the cheese pizza!

I think Joey was just glad to be eating.

Amaya enjoying her pineapple and canadian bacon!

Conner starting out with just sauce and pineapple later agreed it would be tastiest to add a little cheese to his creation.

And Micah, like Caden, just happy to have some cheesy pizza!

We had the Wells Brothers and Rachel over for dinner last night and Rachel brough English muffin pizza fixin's for all the kids! I think they had fun making their pizzas. I know Amaya did. Rachel describes their pizza personalities very well.

The kids played outside some, played some Nintendo DS (that was just Conner and Amaya) and Joey and Caden did some crazy awesome cooking in the kitchen floor! It was a good night and it was good to be with friends! Especially another adult friend because when you've been in the house with only children to talk to for most of the day during the week a little grown-up conversation is MUCH needed!

Thanks for coming over Wells!! We must do pizza night again!!

Oh Aren't They Cute!!!

2009-03-31T14:20:00.000-07:00

Amaya is Jordan's keeper. She is always willing to play with him and keep him entertained so that I can either wrestle Caden to change his diaper or clean up whatever mess Caden has made or put Caden in time out. Poor Caden. I seem to complain about him a lot. He's just at a hard age and I think it's only exacerbated by the fact that there is another little one who also needs attention.

Here is my little family. Yes. Amaya is wearing a turban. It's called a Turbie Twist and she was fresh out of the tub when I took this picture. Also, if you look at Caden and Amaya you will notice their eyes are focused on something else. They just could not keep their eyes off the television long enough for me to take the picture. At least they held their smiles.

Chasey Shad, Caden Shawn and Jordan Casey. THE MEN!

Not much going on this week. So far. Last week was a fun one, though. We had Amaya home with us most of the week with a horrible cough. I took all three to the doctor's office on Wednesday (fun. let me tell ya) and found out that Jordan and Amaya had bronchitis and Caden had yet another ear infection. So, we are still finishing off three bottles of antibiotics. Chase and I have been fighting it but I had to get a prescription of antibiotics myself yesterday (thanks Mom!) and hopefully we will all be better soon.

I have had so much trouble with my ears and throat the last three or four weeks that I haven't really been able to sing. It's driving me crazy! One of my favorite things to do is turn up the music and just sing: in the car, at home, wherever I am (where others are not, of course) and I just haven't had the voice for it lately. It's my week to sing on the worship team at our gathering on Sunday and I really hope I am able to.
Today Caden told me he broke his toe. He was concerned because apparently a piece of his toenail came off. It took some convincing to get him to realize he was okay and he was toe was, in fact, not broken. He's funny.
Today he dropped something and proceeded to exclaim, "Oh my gorsh. Oh my gorsh."
Also, although I hate to admit it, he has also been known to say, "OH CAP!" It's possible that, "OH CRAP!" is something he hears his mother exclaim every now and then without thinking. I'm working on it.
Amaya talked with a friend from school on the phone when she got home from school. It was really the first time and it was cute. They talked for all of twenty seconds and then it was over. I think the conversation went something like, "Amaya?"
"Emma?"
"Hey what are you doing?"
"I'm watching TV. What are you doing?"
"I'm a my grandfather's house."
"Oh. Okay. Bye."
"Bye."

Kids are fun.

Spring Break me off a piece of that

2009-03-23T08:39:00.000-07:00

We got to spend a lot of good time with friends and family over Spring Break. In fact, it was the best Spring Break I've had since I was in school myself. We spent Sunday, Monday and half of Tuesday in Austin visiting my grandparents and other family that live there. It was their first time meeting Jordan and he was so very impressive with his constant spitting up. I'm sure they were loving that. Jordan is quite the accomplished spitter-upper. It has gotten to the point that I don't want other people to hold him because I feel so bad when he covers them in spit-up. YUCK! There are some other moms out there who I know understand but I still don't think that means they enjoy being spit up on, but, as someone pointed out to me at least it's not breast milk spit up. And, I guess that is a good point, juice from another person that is than regurgitated onto someone else.....that does sound gross. ;) Oh well, at this point there isn't an hour that goes by that I'm not cleaning up something that is coming out of at least one of my kids. Especially with it being cold and flu season. Again I say, "YUCK!".

So, back to Spring Break...we got home from Austin on Tuesday afternoon and spent some time at home just unpacking and doing laundry. Wednesday we got up and were excited to meet up with Heidi, Rachel, Ian and Hudson to travel to Richland Hills CofC to play with Julie Kiser and Ryan. Very cool place and FREE!! We watched the kids play (well, I spent some time keeping Caden from escaping into the dark corners of that enourmous building and never finding him again) and then we to "Chick-a-Lay" as Caden calls it to eat lunch. The kids had fun and were so tired when we got home. So, home for naps and then off to the Chappotin's front yard for a cookout. Just a few of us from house church and some of Chris and Heidi's neighbors hanging out in their front yard eating, talking, playing and chasing Caden, Ryan and Grace. Jill was smart and kept Kylie in her stroller for the most part.
I didn't get many pics of the first half of the week. Too busy living and playing but here is one of Caden. He's either sharing Cheetos or stealing them. I'm not sure which.

Amaya's favorite thing when we're in the car is to get the music cranking and Caden singing and dancing with her. He loves it to because he loves any chance to be silly with Amaya. His face is so full of joy and admiration when he watches Amaya. He wants to do everything she does and say everything she says. And, of course she just finds it delightful when she can get him to say and do what she wants him to.

Thursday was lunch in Cleburne with Heidi and Rachel. We met up again because we all decided Mexican food sounded good on Wednesday but had already promised Chick-a-Lay to the kids. So, we satisfied our craving at Barrara's (I can't spell that) on Thursday. Amaya spent the night with Nana and Duke that night and the boys were in bed by 7:45. I spent the evening at the Osborn's with the Owens. Fun times.
Friday we finally got a chance to go see my grandmother in Arlington. She lives so close but we hadn't seen her since Christmas. With our school schedule, her working schedule and all the sickness that's been going around we just haven't been able to find a day to get together. So, Friday we went to visit with her. These are pics from her house. Caden wasn't doing much except looking pretty cute in this picture. He did feel that the beads made him "pitty" (pretty) and who can argue. He does look pretty. Also, the cookie he's eating had probably been licked by both of my grandmother's dogs before he decided to eat it himself. I would have a picture of her on here but she does not allow pictures to be taken of her. NO FUN!

Little Jordy and Nana at Grandma Pat's house. He enjoyed himself immensely. Can't you tell?

Amaya had to find something to occupy herself while we were there. She put a crocheted toilet paper roll cover on her head, a St. Patrick's Day headband and to top it all off two bright yellow, used ear plugs. You can see them in the pic and I have no idea what made her think, "Oooh. Festive! I'd like to wear those on my head somehow."
And to end this and to maybe redeem Amaya a little for the previous picture.....

Didja get me some chaps?!?!

2009-03-12T18:27:00.000-07:00

Today was the one day of school for the entire year that Kindergarten did not have to wear uniforms. It was Western Day and we were just so very excited. We didn't have anything very "westerny" so I went to the store and found Amaya some boots and a cute shirt. We already had the purple cowgirl hat thanks to Gram. I got home and told Amaya about the "Cowboy Store" I bought her stuff at and the first thing she asked me was, "Didja buy me some chaps?" I could not get the scene from the movie "Son-In-Law" with Paulie Shore where he is trying on clothes and he tried chaps without pants or underwear on. It was funny that she even knows about chaps.
You would think that on this day they would have had all of kinds of fun cowboy activities planned, but according to Amaya, they just wore cowgirl clothes and had a normal day. I guess that was enough of excitement for these little guys. Or maybe I'm just used to preschool and they don't really do that kind of stuff when you're in big kid school. The important thing is Amaya had fun with it and was happy to get to dress in "regular clothes" as she called them.

Bring back those lazy, crazy, hazy days of summer....

2009-03-04T11:37:00.001-08:00

Okay, so it's not summer that I'm thinking about just lazy, crazy, hazy days in general. I've been filling an SD card up with pics of the kids for Chase's Mom's birthday. We got her a digital photo frame and I'm giving it to her with a card completely full of pictures. I've got everything starting back to when Amaya was born.....

This is our little Sumo Baby. Wasn't she precious? ;) She had creases all over her (you know, like when you wake up and the sheets have left an imprint on your face) from being crammed in my stomach. She was a big girl. 9 lbs. 13 0z. Yeah, I know what you're thinking, and you're right: I AM an amazing woman! :)

I also realized that Jordan does favor Amaya. They don't look exactly alike, but they do look more alike than Caden and Jordan do. Let us compare.....

Okay. Never mind. Now that I look at all three lined up like that I don't think they look that alike. They are all adorable, though.

So, sifting through the pics I have found so much great stuff. Allow me to share:

Caden at Sea World. Look at that smile. I love Caden's smile.

Ghost-y Caden and Pumpkin 'Maya. I showed Caden this picture and he thought Amaya was holding a bunny.

Amaya and Caden's first gingerbread house.

Amaya's 2nd Birthday. We had a Lion King party. It was her FAVORITE movie at the time.

And, last, Amaya's 1st birthday. I LOVED her little overalls. My neighbor loaned them to me. Her little girl had turned one the year before. SO cute.

And, now, the latest pics of little Jordan Casey!

Valentines and Vomit

2009-02-23T10:33:00.000-08:00

We've had a crazy February. It's gone by fast and we've had a lot of fun and some not so fun. We've had two weekends of children with yucky tummies (I HATE IT!) and hopefully are on the mend for a while. I went back to work this month two days a week at The Little Hearts Preschool teaching music and being an aide (which is code for butt-wiper and janitor). Valentine's Day was fun. Both kids had parties at school and were able to give and receive Valentine's from friends. Mom went to Family Christian Stores and found some cute Valentines that said things like, "God love is powerful" and "God loves you". Very appropriate for little ones to give I thought. Amaya filled out all her Valentines and it took some convincing to get her to agree to buying Valentine's instead of making them out of construction paper. Now, don't misunderstand me. I LOVE doing things like making your own Valentines. But, Amaya has 19 other children in her class. Last year she had eleven. And Mommy ended up making 8 out of the 11 Valentine's after Amaya got tired after just three. So, this year I was voting for taking the easy option what with having a newborn and CADEN. And with our box of ready made Valentines we had enough left over to give to everyone at church. So, it was a very fun time for all of us. And Caden has really come to realize is love of "Chok-it!" (chocolate)
So, being back at school.....that has been interesting. I really enjoy being there - once I get there.
Getting there is the hard part. Amaya has to by at school by 7:40. I need to leave by 7:50 to be on time and that means having everyone ready for the day and out the door by 7:30. I make lunches the night before. Get everyone's bags ready. Clothes laid out. Well, my goal is to do all these things the night before. Sometimes I fall asleep. So, it's something we're working on. We'll get there. At the end of the day you can only do what you can do, right?
So, here's some pics from this month:

This is Amaya before her school talent show. Her class did a dance to "Heal the World" by Michael Jackson. Interesting song choice I thought. But, still, fun to watch. We would have had pictures of the actual event but Caden dropped my camera on our tile floor and I then stepped on it. Broken camera. I've got to stop stepping on my electronics. It's not good for them. The PTA of Deer Creek Elementary had the talent show as a fundraiser and Amaya was so excited. There were TONS of people there and we ended up standing in the back of the auditorium but we got to see her perform and look grown-up and so little all at the same time.

Just a few pics of our last house church. The best thing to do before the grown-ups even attempt to eat is get all the children food, drink, napkins and seated. Of course, we still get up and down the entire time but at least we try. We are a house church of twelve adults and 13 children. Actually that number doesn't seem so bad when you look at it in black in white. It's the full color, live version that can make you a little overwhelmed. But, what a blessing and and a joy it is to see these children being family and growing up in a community of faith and seeing the examples of not just their parents but the adopted mommies and daddies as well. We love our kids and wouldn't change the way we do church for anything.

So, that was February for the Russell's. I have to go now because Caden is eating chapstick and just dumped out an entire bottle of Mr. Bubbles bubble bath on his floor, rug and rocking chair. How ironic that I just wrote about the blessing of children and now look what my little blessing just did......AAAAaaaahhhhh!!!!!!

100 Swedish Fish

2009-02-09T15:13:00.000-08:00

Just want to apologize before you watch. I have a coughing attack in the middle of the video, but she was so cute and doing so well that I didn't want to redo it. So, you have my lovely coughing. And if you know me you know how lovely that sound can be.
Sorry!

Tomorrow is the 100th day of school and we are excited and anxious to see what wonderful things this day has in store for us. Well, that's mostly Amaya who feels that way. There has actually been quite a bit of preparation involved in this day. First, we had to decide on a snack that we could send a hundred of to school. We picked Swedish Fish, as you heard in the video, and then found out that it wasn't supposed to be candy. I suppose I should have known that, but I never thought about it. Amaya wanted to take something she really enjoys. She picked Swedish Fish, so we took Swedish Fish. Next we had to get a hat (thanks Mom) and decide on a hundred things to put on the hat. At first, we thought jelly beans but that became jelly beans and one gorilla. Which turned into jelly beans, a gorilla, a fairy and a dime. And it just went on from there to our version of an "I Spy" hat. So, tomorrow is the 100th Day of School Celebration and Amaya can't wait!!

Caden's Second Birthday Party

2008-10-13T17:41:00.000-07:00

Last Friday night we got together at my parent's house to celebrate Caden Shawn's second birthday! We've been excited for Caden to have his "Doooooor-othy" party for awhile now and it did not disappoint. ALMOST all of our closest friends and family where there and we had a fun night of eating Frito pie and just enjoying watching the kids play together.

Duke takes Caden by surprise to get a pictue of the birthday boy.

Caden and Gram

Emma, Torie and Amaya enjoying some "girl time" away from the little brothers!

Caden's favorite part: singing "Happy to you!" and blowing out the candle.

Cake eating....so cute.

Chase and Ryan help Caden open and enjoy his presents!

Caden opens his present from Papa and Nana: Thomas the Train books!

We LOVE books at our house!

Aubrey (in the corner).

Charlie, Handy Manny, Ryan and Caden put Caden's new tools to good use.

A (almost) happy end to a fun night!
All the brothers and sisters get together for picture.
All cooperate, except the birthday boy.

Ryan, Torie, Ashtyn, Aubrey, Amaya, Caden, Emma and Charlie

To all of you who were there we appreicate and love you so much for a being a part of this special day in Caden's life. To all of you who couldn't be there know that you are missed and that we love you!

2008-09-22T07:14:00.000-07:00

Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.
Romans 12:12

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Romans 13:15

Caden is ALL BOY!

2008-09-10T06:50:00.000-07:00

It's basically our theme for Caden's life these days. Everything he does is just SO boy! Well, with exception of his love for cooking, his little heart-covered black purse that Nana bought him and his desire to wear a bracelet in his "elbow-pit" whenever he can get his hands on one of Amaya's bracelets.

He's ALL muscle! Chase swears he has a six-pack! When we do have to fight with him - like for example, when we are putting him in his car seat and he doesn't want to be in his carseat - Chase and I both end up sweaty and exhausted. He is one strong kid.

Yesterday was "Meet the Teacher" day at Little Hearts where Caden goes to school and I work as an aide. My job for the day, along with the other aides, was to help watch the teacher's kids while they met their new students. What did I spend the day doing? Keeping Caden in the room, keeping Caden off the tables, making sure Caden didn't eat food off the floor, chasing Caden when he did escape, pulling chairs off of Caden and picking Caden up off the floor. The list could actually go on but you get the idea. When it was our turn to go "meet the teacher" we walked into his classroom where other children are sitting quietly by their mothers and fathers, eating Teddy Grahams and basically being still. NOT MY KID! Nope, I fought him the whole time. He didn't care about the cookies. He wanted to move, run, jump, play! Needless to say Caden is a mess and honestly, he just makes me tired.

Caden is also such a wonderfully cuddly, sweet and happy boy! All of these things make the difficult times easy to endure. He loves to sit in Chase's lap and watch "ball!" (football). He has to give hugs on his own terms. Something that Amaya is having to adjust to. She is so lovable and hug-happy that it's hard for her when Caden does not want to be hugged and kissed. But, when he decides it's time for hug he'll just grab Amaya or hold his hands up for her to pick him up and love on him.

Caden loves books! We are still reinforcing the "we never EVER tear books" rule with him, but he's starting to get it. He is into some TV now. He watches The Wiggles which he calls "Dorrrrrthy!" and Backyardigans which he calls "Pa-bo!" He'll ask for "Dorrrrrthy!" and we'll say, "You want Daddy" to which is replies, "No! Dorrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrthy!" He really draws out the 'r' sounds and says it more like a song. It's really cute. Writing it does not do it justice.

He has a lot of words. Some are very clear and some are not. If he gets stumped and isn't sure what to say he will just start going through his words. "Light, Nana, Mommy, Daddy, Duke, My-My (Amaya), Robby, Mamie (Amy)" He always goes through the names first. Let's see...what are some of his other words:

Apple - very clear

Pop tah - Pop tart

EAT! - VERY clear

tea - anything from water to milk to juice to tea

Coke - I know, we're bad parents. He rarely gets a sip, but when he does.....!

cookie - very clear. You notice most of his words are food and eating related.

Up! - clear

Dow - down

TWO! - if you hear him shout this and you're in another room you better start running because he's counting down to jumping off of or into something.

tay too - thank you

Mi Mouse - Mickey Mouse

Ry-ee - Rylie

hi, bye-bye, mommy, daddy, my-my, duke, Robby, Mamie, sit, walk, baby, more, bite, dog, uh-oh!, Gram, light, star, duck, yes, No!,

I'm sure there are more, but that's what I've got for now. He is putting two maybe three words together. Sometimes. He's still using one-word sentences for the most part, though.

Our latest adventure has been figuring out how to keep that boy in his crib. We tried his toddler bed several weeks ago. Of course, while we were setting it up and talking about it with him he was ALL about it. He jumped on it and played on it with Amaya. Then, at bedtime that kid FREAKED out. He was not happy. He was not sleeping in that bed. It was almost like he was terrified without the security of his crib. Five hours after bedtime he was exhausted, Chase and I were exhausted and we gave in and brought his crib back into his room. I just really don't think he was ready. That's fine. Or, it was until he figured out, "Hey, I'm a climber. I've always been a climber! I'm outta here!" He discovered this happiness last week at 5:30 one morning. So, after much thought, prayer, calls to Dad and calls to the Doctor we decided to buy a crib tent. Let me just say that the people who make those things realize that whoever is buying it is exhausted and desperate. They will spend whatever it takes to get some peace of mind. So....

Child leash and harness ..... $14.99

Crib tent ...... $69.99

A full night's sleep, not finding your toddler wandering around the house at 3:00 in the morning....... PRICELESS!

So, Caden has become a very funny, sweet, strong-willed, happy, ACTIVE and strong little boy. We love him so much and he bring so much joy and blessing to our life! He's not a baby anymore and I must confess I'm completely fine with that. We've got three and half months until the baby is born and I'm happy to have a "big boy" in Caden.

Amaya Grace Russell

2008-09-05T06:55:00.000-07:00

Alarm clocks. Lunch box. Backpack. Pencil. White and Navy Polo Shirts. Khaki jumpers.

Amaya is a school going fool. She LOVES school and most of the time wakes up before her alarm goes off at 6:35. She jumps out of bed and puts on her "uniform" that she had laid out the night before. She comes into the living room and is ready for breakfast and a lengthy, question-filled chat with mom. Mom, however, is not bright-eyed and talkative and is having a hard time figuring out what she is doing let alone what is being said to her. It's amazing to me how Amaya can take off at 100 miles per hour as soon as the big blue eyes pop open. But, that's who Amaya is and I wouldn't want it any other way.

The first day of school was exciting and scary. For both of us. Chase and Caden were sleeping so I don't know that they were particularly excited or scared. Amaya had asked for a breakfast of waffles and bacon and that is what she got. We made breakfast and while she ate I made her lunch. Lunch was noodles with cheese and sauce. We bought a thermos that is supposed to keep her food hot for up to five hours and there was no way she was going for a cold sandwich after she discovered this. So, pasta it was. She had breakfast, she had her lunch ready, her back pack was filled with school supplies and I had a bag of supplies myself. There were no more excuses. It was time to leave.

We arrive at school and find a parking place. That actually took a lot longer than I thought. We weren't late, but I wanted to be early so I could have a few minutes before I had to leave her. We walk into her classroom and there is quite a lot of chaos. Children are crying and parents are hanging out trying to squeeze out those last few minutes before they have to leave. Amaya is starting to look a little overwhelmed, but she holds my hand and looks up at me and smiles. She's ready, but maybe she senses that I'm not. We find her chair at her table. She is in the red group and all the other children at her table are already there. Luckily, there are no criers at this table. They are sitting quietly coloring. She sits down and we put her backpack and bag of supplies by her chair. She wants her box of crayons and we get that out and there's not much else for me to do. We take a picture and she smiles SO big. I'm so proud of her. I give her a kiss and hug and tell her I'll be back to pick her up this afternoon. I start to leave and I turn around to take a picture: her smile is gone. She's okay, but she looks so unsure. At this point I have to leave becuase while there might be children crying there are definitely no parents crying. I almost make it to the car before it starts, but not quite.

I leave at 2:00 to pick her up. She gets out at 2:30. I can't wait any longer! Finally, here comes her class. She sees us. She is SO happy and excited. She had a wonderful day! She loves her teacher and she's sure she'll "like the kids once she gets to know them". She can't wait to go to school tomorrow and tomorrow they are starting "discipline"!! "Miss Gillespie is so beautiful and so nice. Do you think she likes me, mom? I bet she does." "We have PE. It is really cool. We play games." "I have folders to bring home every day and you have to sign them."

So, Amaya is just where she needs to be. She was made for school. There were no tears the second day. I just needed to know she would want to be at school. Not that we have a choice, but it sure does make it easier to take and leave her somewhere everyday that she really and truly loves to be.