Moritz Clan

to clean or to create...

2011-10-19T22:21:00.004-06:00

The man is in the field....AGAIN....and the daughter has a bake sale tomorrow to help raise money for their field trip to a lovely milking cow farm...I had 2 choices tonight. 1. clean and get the house back in shape which is my typical chore when the man leaves or 2. get creative and fun with the bake sale. I went with creative! And had a blast. I have made cake balls one other time while living in Germany and they didn't work out. So I thought I'd give it another try....

I'm pretty happy how they turned out!

It's Birthday Time!

2011-03-17T11:10:00.003-06:00

One things for certain in parenting. The TIME GOES SO FAST! I'm amazed this little man is already 4 years old. Shouldn't he still be in diapers and using a sippy cup and crawling. Ok well, the diapers I'm happy to be rid of and I do enjoy each new phaze of parenting. I love the things that come out of his mouth. He's such a comedian. And so kind and sweet and thoughtful. And so much a BOY! He's rough and loves to wrestle and beat-up on Daddy! And I wouldn't trade anything about him for the world!

Happy Birthday Little Man WE LOVE YOU!

One Day.

2011-02-12T15:06:00.004-07:00

One of these days I'll have time to really update. Ya know like take down the Christmas background post GOOD pictures of my munchkins. That sort of thing. That day may not come until we are completely unpacked AND un-thawed! There is so much snow here it's INSANE! Our week trek across 9 states during "the worst winter in 50 years" to our new duty station was actually rather un-eventful. I should have taken pictures, lots of them, but really when you're driving in a car with 2 small kids and a guinea pig by the time you stop who wants a camera in their face?! We were blessed to only have to be in a motel for 2 nights before our house was ready. Kevin and I braved the wind and snow and unloaded the massive 26ft truck in about 2 hours while the kids ran circles through their playroom/jack and jill bath/bedroom. We are definately looking forward to spring where we can enjoy all that New York and the surrounding states have to offer! And love even more that family doesn't seem so far away like they were when we were in Germany. Driving from Em's to NY was the last leg of the trip and while I anticipated it to be the 'longest' it went quite fast. We are excited to share summer activities with them!

These were the day after we moved in. The kids thought it would be fun to go play in the snow while I unpacked. They barely got out the back door. They still aren't completely on the ground there's still a few inches of snow they're standing on!

These were taken today after another 1/2 a foot or more has dropped since moving in. (It's snowed everyday since we moved in) The fence is your standard 6ft fence. We are however, excited at the prospect of this LARGE yard this spring/summer. I'm begining to wonder though if it will be August before we see the ground!

I'll get more pictures of the house and all that soon!

Say SANTA CLAUS

2010-12-21T14:58:00.003-07:00

We took the kids to get their picture taken with the Big Guy today. It was so fun!

Game Day!

2010-10-31T09:39:00.004-06:00

Oregon Duck Game Day's have been the highlight of our life lately. It gives us something to look forward to which helps pass the time and it's also just a ton of fun! Especially since we've been kicking boota! Here's last nights treats and munchkins!

HOT CHOCOLATE

2010-10-25T09:31:00.003-06:00

MMMM 'tis the season for Hot Chocolate!

the boy loves his chocolate!

(the mug is so fitting!)

yeah, I'm thinking that's enough sugar for the night!

couldn't get the boy to look up for noth'n

This has been the view from my bedroom...

And this.....

was my view this morning!

a new favorite place...

2010-10-20T23:17:00.003-06:00

We found this super fun park just a few blocks from our house. There's a walking trail just under 1/2 mile around the park with some soccer fields, a pavilion and a big playground. We LOVE it. We've started taking their bikes and the kids ride while I walk the path a couple times and then they get to play for a while before we head home. We've been going in the late afternoon so by the time we get home and have dinner they are ready to crash. Bonus points in my opinion!

Rodeo!

2010-08-22T20:50:00.003-06:00

Grandpa and I took the munchkins to their 1st Rodeo. It was a lot of fun. We missed the last part but lasted a couple hours which was longer then I expected with 2 sick little ones. Can't wait for the next one though! Sometimes I think I should have been born in a different time and different "culture". Seeing all those cowboys/cowgirls gives me hope that the classic lifestyle isn't dying away. PHEW!

YEEEEEEEEEEHAW!

Summer Lov'n

2010-08-22T11:17:00.007-06:00

We have been having so much fun since we've been back in the States! Most of the fun has been in Grandpa's beautiful backyard! Here's a few of our highlights...

We were also thrilled to get a surprise visit from Daddy!

It was wonderful having him 'home' with us and so sad to send him back.

The munchkins have learned to shuck corn...

they think it's pretty fun stuff, at least for now!

better have a phone!

2010-07-11T14:50:00.002-06:00

Amarisa has to have a plan of action. Hmm wonder where she gets that one? So part of our nightly tuck-in routine is filling her in on what we'll be doing the next day. She won't go to sleep until she knows exactly what we'll be doing. Tonight I explained we would be taking the lawn mower back to self help and taking the paper work into the transportation guy so he can set up the date with the movers to come pack up our stuff. She thinks about it for a minute and just as I'm about to leave the room she says, "do they have a phone?" a phone? who? what? huh? Irritated I'm not tracking with her she says, "the paper work guy!" um, yeah why? "well he better have a phone so when we give him the papers he can call and get our move set up right there!" Yeah, I'm thinking she's a bit excited about this move!

time

2010-07-09T10:24:00.002-06:00

You know it's time to take a break from the chaos when your 3 year comes to you and says, "Mommy, can I have a minute?"

the sponge!

2010-07-02T14:30:00.002-06:00

This little sassy pants is a giant sponge!

She has always wanted to learn and had a thirst for new facts. Lately she has blown me away with her questions. Some, I admit, I have pretended to ignore and changed the subject because I have NO IDEA how to answer her! Here's some of her inquiries:

Family Prayer:

The other night during family prayer it was my turn and I said something along the lines of "let their hearts be softened". Amarisa's question... what does hearts be softened mean?

Song Lyrics:

I've never paid much attention to my kids listening to the same music as me because lets face it you can't really go wrong with country, oldies, musicals, disney and church music. So of course we're rocking out to Reba the other day and out of the backseat Amarisa pipes up...Mom what does 'taste your kiss' mean?

Rhyming:

She can't stick with the basics like ball and fall and fox and box. Nope, she wants to know what rhyms with words like....princess, my little poney and chocolate.

I fear the future with this one! Perhaps I've bitten off more then I can chew in homeschooling for kindergarten...we shall see! I do LOVE that she has such a thirst for knowledge and PRAY she continues to work so hard at absorbing so much!

moving...maybe...hopefully....

2010-06-27T13:25:00.003-06:00

What's that saying...the road through life is paved with good intentions...or something like that?! I very well could have butchered it but it sounds good anyway. I fully intended to post a picture a day when Kevin left over a month ago but it's been so crazy around here and we haven't done anything super picture worthy really. We had fully intended on the kids and I being moved back to the states by now. But with all things around here it seems, we have had to fight like crazy to get the paperwork pushed through. 2 1/2 almost 3 months later it's finally getting where it needs to be. Although we don't have our official "yes you can move" orders I've been prepping like crazy so when they do come I can get the movers here, the truck shipped, flight arrangements made, living arrangements where we're goin, all that crazy good stuff done immediately. While we are extremely excited about this prospect it's been pretty stressful. For one I haven't said anything to the kids because right now they just think daddy's at school they don't know that immediately following school he deploys again. And not having the official word I would of course end up with the question a million times a day...when are we going, and no answer to give them. Also with the craziness comes the question of what to ship and what Kevin will need left behind. Let me tell ya going through 10 years of military gear trying to figure out what he'll need and what he won't when I don't know what half the stuff is to begin with is rather fun. Might be pretty comical when he comes back to pack for the deployment and wonder why in the heck I thought he'd need silverware instead of his kevlar! haha So that's what I've been up to organizing, painting, fixing, painting, cleaning, painting....

Hopefully we hear something "official" Monday or Tuesday! Would sure be nice to know what's up! It keeps us on our toes though that's for sure!

TWO FABULOUSLY AMAZING MEN

2010-06-21T02:56:00.007-06:00

To my Dad:

You are an amazing Grandpa! Having had a wonderful Grandpa with great memories I always wanted that for my kids. You have been and continue to be exactly that! The kids talk about you constantly! Thank you!

You have created fabulous memories that I will cherish forever. ONE of those is coloring! Who knew. I'm sure it wasn't something you planned but I love it. Sunday afternoons and Christmas that's what I will always think of when I see coloring books and crayons! Thank you!

You've taught me that no matter how old we are it's ok to be goofy and have fun with life. Only MY Dad would goose the Santa in beautiful Garmisch, Germany with all the festivities of Christmas surrounding us! Regardless of the surroundings or situation there's always room for a laugh! And I LOVE it! Thank you!

Of all the great lessons in life you've taught me the one that means the most can't be captured in pictures. It's strength, testimony, faith and prayer. You have always been there to get advise from and even when I haven't wanted to hear it you've said it. I have always been able to go to you with questions, concerns and advise and you always know exactly what I need to hear. Thank you for raising us in a home with the blessings of the gospel and especially the Priesthood. Thank you!

I LOVE YOU DAD! HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!

To my Husband/Best Friend/Father to our Munchkins:

oh shoot! wrong picture. I only dream of Agent Gibbs. ;)

AWW! Now that's better!

In 2005 we were blessed with a beautiful baby girl who absolutely adores you!

In 2007 we were blessed with a beautiful baby boy who idolizes you!

As for me...

There's nobody in this world I'd rather go through this crazy rollercoaster with! We may have to spend many days apart but the moments we do have together are all the more cherished! We are so proud of you and are truly honored to have YOU as our Daddy and Hubby! We love you and miss you!

(just because I think old(er) pictures are fun! and I can't believe how big these two are getting!)

2010-06-13T05:53:00.002-06:00

We got some Mickey Mouse seed growers with our rewards points and finally got them planted. For the longest time we thought we ended up with just a bunch of weeds. So when the kids were out blowing bubbles Amarisa was examining her plants and was sooo excited about her 1 flower she knocked over her bubbles! ;) She's VERY proud of her flower!

The girl got her Grandpa's green thumb that's for sure!

2010-06-13T05:42:00.003-06:00

Painting seems to be our thing lately. Whatever I can do to increase their artistic abilities though! I can barely draw a stick figure. I'm hoping they got some of the artistic genes I was jipped on :)

2010-06-10T16:14:00.002-06:00

DONE!

I spent the morning cleaning the house and then we headed outside. I worked in the yard pulling weeds and getting ready to mow this weekend and the kids played with bubbles and pretended to help! :) 3 hours later we decided to head inside! I still can't believe I only got the front done. Who's brilliant idea was it to get into a house with lots of yard work anyway!? After we showered up I was getting dinner ready and went to get the kids and found Garrett crashed out! Apparently blowing bubbles, pulling weeds, scratching up elbows and knees, pee'ing outside and looking for bugs was just too much for his little body!

Bubbles!

2010-06-08T11:58:00.003-06:00

What's summer without some bubble action outside?!

They lead a rough life...

2010-06-08T11:52:00.002-06:00

Apparently Amarisa thought Buzz, Woody, Woody and Jesse had a headache!

Enjoying the sun!

2010-06-05T09:19:00.002-06:00

Catch me if you can!

On your mark, get set, GO!
This girl is seriously growing up WAY too fast!

Fun with Fingerpaints!

2010-05-31T02:25:00.005-06:00

2010-05-24T14:28:00.002-06:00

See this little bugger. Yeah that blurry blob up there. Yeah that would be a tick. Yeah it's tiny but when it's on your 5 year olds scalp it's not so tiny! I pulled this out of Amarisa's head yesterday! She was a super super trooper! She stood like a statue while I sufficated the bugger. It didn't come out on it's own so armed with some tweezers, alcohol (the rubbing kind not the drinking kind!) and some neosporin with pain reliever away I went and out it came. Woohooo the adventures we have when Daddy's away! :)

While the Mom's away the Children shall....

2010-05-23T02:32:00.003-06:00

Saturday was a beautiful day! After getting the lawn mower back to the self help place on post and hitting the commissary we came home and I decided to clean up the car. I only got the inside done as the clouds started to roll in and I was afraid I'd spend a bunch of time cleaning the outside to all to have it rain. While I was outside doing that my lovlies were suppose to be picking up their toys so they could come outside and play with me. hmmmm no sign of kids but an awful lot of giggling coming from inside the house. so what did I find when I walked in...

Along with all my insane cleaning and organizing I've been shredding papers we don't need/want and don't need/want anyone else to see either. I had a box of shreds waiting to take to the sort facility and instead those lovely munckins I love so much decided to have a party! I think I dumped the vaccum about 6 times and I think we'll be finding paper pieces around for a while. But hey it could be worse!

2010-05-23T01:46:00.002-06:00

Amarisa's flowers. She's so proud of these. We had so much rain it looked like the poor thing drowned. I thought for sure it was dead and was about to dig it up and toss it but Amarisa wouldn't let me. Low and behold yesterday we were admiring our handy work and Amarisa was so excited she came running over and told me she had 9 flowers! She didn't get her green thumb from me that's for sure!
I know I already posted pictures of my rhody but can you tell I'm pretty happy with it?!

Seriously I think they are so pretty!

I don't think I truly appreciated these little buggers growing up! There's something exotic about them that makes them so amazing to me. And of course I think of home everytime I look at it!

Thought I'd throw in a picture of a tulip too. Most of the tulips are gone now. Wish they bloomed longer but this one almost looks like velvet to me. I love flowers. They make me smile! :)

2010-05-20T15:02:00.002-06:00

IF YOU'RE NOT IN LOVE WITH A SOLDIER

If you're not in love with a soldier, you can't know adventure. You don't know smelly gray PT uniforms that require a daily washing. You can't understand green and brown camouflaged bags flooding your bedroom floor.

If you're not in love with a soldier, you can't understand the meaning of the phrase "going to the field" and the weeks you spend away from each other.

If you're not in love with a soldier, you can never imagine the hole in your heart when that phone call comes? "Honey, I am leaving tomorrow to go overseas. I don't know how long I will be gone or exactly where I am going, but I want you to know that I love you - always!"

If you're not in love with a soldier, you don't know what it's like to say that final good-bye. You don't know what it really means to be glued to the television. You don't understand fear and you can't possibly understand the sleepless nights of endless crying wondering if you will ever see the love of your life alive again.

If you're not in love with a soldier, you can't know the immense joy, the uncontrollable smile, or the butterflies in your stomach when you see your soldier march into the family waiting area upon redeployment. You can't understand the self-control it takes to stand on the other side of the room as some higher-up gives a seemingly endless welcome home speech while all the soldiers stand in formation. You don't know what it's like to have that second first kiss or what it's like to experience puppy love all over.

If you're not in love with a soldier, you can't truly understand how to make every moment count because you never know when that phone call may come again.

If you're not in love with a soldier, you can never really understand how very delicate life is!

Author:Christy Krasinski

***I came across this today and how true it is...kindof...I certainly don't think as the wife of a soldier I'm the only one that feels some of these things. People feel fear, pain and sorrow everyday. But thought I would share because it does hit close to home***

Perdy Yard!

2010-05-20T10:54:00.002-06:00

When we moved in this area was WAY overgrown with brush and weeds and a massive tree that was knocking on our bedroom window every time the wind blew! We pulled it all out and cut down the tree and Kevin put up the nifty rock wall all out of rocks we've dug up and cleaned out of the yard!
This is the side of the house a beautiful Cherry Tree that some morons decided to attempt a tree house but gave up. We've been cleaning out the corner and under the tree and are working on new grass. So far it's coming in pretty good.

Another corner that was covered in junk. Composter that I obviously forgot to close the lid on! And logs they used for some training thing that Kevin graciously offered to take home. Anything to get the job done without having to spend money we're all for! Especially when it's something we're just going to walk away from!

And my beloved Rhody! I was so happy when we found these at a garden store. Isn't she pretty?! Can't wait for all those blooms to open. I love it it reminds me of home. And I can see it perfect from my kitchen window!

This is where the two nasty dead trees were right in the front of the house. We pulled those out and put in the little bushes that should grow and fill in the area and then of course my rhody! I need to get a couple more brick logs for then end there and then lay the bark out that I have but it's not looking too shabby!

PJ's

2010-05-19T15:28:00.002-06:00

The chicklets are growing overnight! LITERALLY! They go to bed and their pj's fit fine and the next morning they're toes are sticking out the end. Serioulsy, I would have taken a picture of Amarisa and her "mom look 3 toes!" pose out her footy pj's had I thought about it before chucking them in the garbage. I was quickly instructed by the MAN to get new pj's. So here are the first of the new pj's for summer! (if it ever comes to germany)

Of course it's gotta be PRINCESS for Amarisa. Complete with a wand! (and crazy hair!)

And Garrett with his Dino impression! This kid is 3 wears a size 4T is 2 inches shorter then his sister and weighs nearly 5lbs more!

(the jury's still out on whether he's just a big kid or she's just a rinka-dink)

Personally I don't think there's anything better then some new comfy pjs! Perhaps pj's will be our school uniform when I 'officially' start homeschooling! ;)

I've already failed!

2010-05-19T15:22:00.002-06:00

So much for a picture-a-day. My camera battery was dead yesterday and I kept forgetting to charge it. Not to mention we haven't done anything real exciting so no fun pictures to take anyway. The rain and freeeeeeezing temps lately have us all feeling a bit blah! I want to get outside and get my yard cleaned up and that's not happening which totally stresses me out. I did finally get a lawn mower from self-help but it's sitting in the garage. Crossing my fingers for even 20 minutes of no rain tomorrow. I'm not even asking for sun or heat...just no rain PLEASE!

Kisses for Daddy

2010-05-17T17:14:00.003-06:00

This munchkin refuses to "sleep-in" regardless of what time she goes to bed! What's up with that?? Who doesn't love staying in bed snuggled up all cozy? Oh yeah, her DADDY! At least she's all smiles and chipper!

seriously doesn't she look like she's up to something? ;)

She is definately a Daddy's girl! Sending kisses to Daddy! She makes sure she adds lots of blessings for Daddy in her prayers too. Melts my heart! I'm thankful they have such an amazing connection with him.

(one of those things we have worried about with him being gone so much. amazing how resiliant little ones are. of course the bribes of disney trips to make up for lost time help too!)

Picture a day!

2010-05-16T15:26:00.004-06:00

So I had this genius idea to post a picture-a-day while Kevin is gone that way when he gets back he doesn't feel like he missed so much. We'll see how well I do with it!

Apparently our dinner conversation wasn't thrilling enough for Garrett!

I LOVE THESE PEEPS!

2010-05-16T15:00:00.002-06:00

We took Kevin to the airport on Saturday morning. I didn't think it would be THAT hard since we seem to be doing this a lot lately but ended up being a bit more emotional then I thought. Amarisa cried the night before and on the way to the airport. When we were giving hugs and saying our...see ya soon's...she was fine and dandy. I spilled over a bit sucked it up and then spilled some more driving home. I did pretty good hiding it from the kids but at one point Amarisa caught me and said, "It's ok Mom, we're tough cookies!" and with that we laughed and put on our tough cookie hats!

Today at lunch we were talking and I asked Garrett if he was a tough cookie too. He squinched his nose up and said, "NOPE!" then with a puffed chest and proud expression stated, "My DADDY'S a tough cookie!".

Then there's this guy! What more can I say! He's the reason we're all down and droopy lately! If we didn't like him so much all this would be so much easier! HA! We are extremely proud of him and all he does and sacrafices for us.

a day late....

2010-04-19T23:02:00.004-06:00

Happy Birthday Kevin!

3 years old

5 years old

13 years old

15 years old

Well I'm probably in enough trouble for posting these pictures so we'll leave his age out on this one ;)

I love this man more and more everyday! He sacrafices so much and works so hard so we can have and do and go and see! He is the best father I could ever ask for and and even better husband. Happy Birthday Cute Boy!

Happy Birthday Amarisa!

2010-03-26T12:20:00.002-06:00

Amarisa is 5 today!

Amarisa in her blessing dress at 3 months old. I had so much fun making this dress while I was pregnant invisioning what our little bundle would look like and praying the dr. was right in her being a girl!

Amarisa at 1 year old. She spent many days bouncing around like tigger in this costume!

3 years old in Germany!

4 years old and as Sassy as ever!

Blogger is being stupid and won't let me add any more pictures!

Amarisa is such a light in our life! She makes me laugh, she teaches me every day and she has a contant love for learning new things! I am amazed everyday at her memory and how quickly she learns. She comes up with the funniest comments and responses when you least expect it. I am so blessed to have such a wonderful little girl! She may continue to grow and mature but will always be my baby girl!

We love you little one! Always remember you are the Daughter of a King and will always be a Princess!

Helping Dad

2010-03-24T23:55:00.002-06:00

Kevin came home last night and was fiddling with something on the truck while I finished up dinner. All of a sudden I hear the scampering of little feet down the hall and out the door again. I looked out the window and saw the kids had run into the playroom grabbed Garrett's Cars toolset and were out helping Daddy with the truck.

And apparently the neighbors jeep was too exciting not to explore a bit.

Amarisa helping Daddy. She may be in a dress and likes princesses and girly things but it is NOT beneath her to get dirty with the boys!--I'm happy about that!

(just a side note...I worked on putting snow/winter clothes away and started going through summer stuff to see what the kids need and what still fits. Garrett chose that outfit out of the..things to get rid of pile!)

Never Say Never

2010-03-22T08:25:00.003-06:00

I am one of those mom's who claimed, "my kids will NEVER..." HA I have learned uttering those words will only set you up for failure and definately make a liar out of you :)

One of those things my kids were NEVER going to do is play video games/computer games. Yes well, last year Amarisa got a Nintendo DS for her birthday and they play on the computer nearly everyday! Yes, I AM A LIAR! But I do have some justifcation behind it! One the DS was so she could have something to entertain her on our flight to and from Florida last year. She didn't play it at all the whole time we were actually in Florida and rarely if ever plays it now. The computer on the other hand has been absolutely WONDERFUL for both them and me!

She is very good at letting Garrett sit with her and she explains what she is doing so well. She is also very good at letting him pick which game they play.

They are also restricted to the games she can link to from the blog. One site was compiled by my Uncle Randy who teaches at an elementary school in Utah. There are WONDERFUL sites from that link that are fun and very educational. She has learned so much from playing on there. I attribute nearly all their alphabet and letter recognition to that link!

And it certainly doesn't hurt that it's entertaining for them both. They are occupied with positive activities which helps me and my sanity level.

SO, I may have lied prior to having children but boy am I ever so glad I made a liar out of myself by changing my ban on such activities!

(FYI: the Play Learn and Grow With Me image is the link to all the fabulous sites if you're
looking for some constructive entertainment for your munchkins!)

VA-NIL-LA

2010-03-19T11:26:00.003-06:00

How do YOU say- VANILLA?

sometimes life needs more simple things

2010-03-18T04:35:00.004-06:00

"A Mother must maintain proper perspective in order to see the view."

I have decided to learn from my children and enjoy the SIMPLE things in life.

some of the things they enjoy and get REALLY excited about:

Who doesn't get excited about Lemonade just looking at it screams SUMMER! to me!

I think we can all use a little DISNEY in our lives!

They get especially excited about phone calls from Daddy and Grandpa and Nana!

Garrett's favorite treat is DARK CHOCOLATE (definately his father's son!)

Amarisa on the other hand will ONLY eat MILK CHOCOLATE! (yes, she's MINE all the way)

A little booty shak'n to some country music.

Yep, I definately need to start enjoying MORE of the simple things!

I suggest you do the same. I'm thinking I'll start with the chocolate!

Our BABY is 3

2010-03-16T11:15:00.004-06:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY GARRETT!

our tiny bundle! Garrett was born at exactly 42 weeks. He was not about to leave Mama's belly. I like to think he's a Mama's boy and that's why he took so long :) The doctor thought he was headed for 10lbs (he ended up being 8.15oz and well over 9lbs when we left the hospital) so we went ahead and induced me. He still didn't want to come out so we went in for a second c-section. I used to think that made me a bad Mama. Oh the things we think post-partum!

He has always been so full of smiles. He's our little comedian and LOVES to make us laugh!

before he chipped his front tooth! Such a good look'n kid!

And LOVES his Daddy!

But will ALWAYS be my little prince!

Here he is today! Growing so fast and into such a little man! I love him more and more everyday! Today he declared, "when I get big I gonna be ASTRONAUT" :) We'll see what he declares next year ;)

we love you Garrett and are so proud of the little man you are becoming!

The Chore Store!

2010-03-13T17:02:00.003-07:00

In hopes of teaching the kids learn counting, money, saving and helping around the house I came up with The Chore Store. Right now they get real money for doing little jobs but I'm not real consistant with it and they decided they're saving for our next trip to Disney World. Being that that trip won't be happening for another year or so for a 3 and 5 year old that's a ways off. I wanted something a little more tangable.

Their "chores" are more positive behaviors then actual jobs. It's pretty hard coming up with enough actual jobs for their age that are a daily task.

Each chore has a coin on it. That's how much they get for that specific task (also helps keep me on track with the store so they aren't buying me out every other day)

I printed both sides of the coins and laminated them so we can use them over and over. I also made them slightly larger then scale so they can learn about money and what it looks like and see the detail better. Really kindof interesting if you really look at a coin.

Each time they accomplish a task they get to move a tile to that square. At the end of the day they get to cash out their tiles for money and put them in their own container to save for something in the store. They'll also get the same coin for their piggy bank that they get for the chore. Except for the penny since we don't use pennies here we don't have any so we'll sub that one :)

Right now it will take them a week to purchase an item in the store. Eventually, I plan to have smaller items they can buy mid week and larger items they can save for over time. For now we'll stick with a weeks worth of chores for one "toy".

Hopefully it works!

chatting with my 2 favorite munchkins!

2010-03-05T11:33:00.003-07:00

(last year at Hollywood Studios)

I think I have some pretty AWESOME kids!
We went to Graf. today and all the way home we chatted. It was insightful and FUN!
We talked about politics, religion, world peace, world hunger...ok not really...
Well, not on an adult level anyway. We talked about our favorite animals,
which moved into taking care of our planet by recycling,
which somehow moved on to favorite colors (they're 2 and 4 what do you expect ha ha),
which turned into favorite foods,
which turned into Heavenly Father and Jesus and Primary songs,
and all this went on for an hour and a half! continuing from one favorite to the next!
It was GREAT!

here's some of what I learned:

Amarisa's Favorites:

Food: she never did answer me on this one she's our problem eater could be why baby brother weighs so much more then her!

Color: Red

Princess: Ariel

Song: I Love To See The Temple

Garrett's Favorites:

Food: Mac and Cheese

Color: Lellow

Disney Character: Woody and Bullseye

Song: I'm So Glad When Daddy Comes Home!

Easy Bake

2010-02-27T11:10:00.003-07:00

The munchkins got to pick out a toy at the store today and Amarisa decided she HAD TO HAVE an Easy Bake Oven Decorating Kit. (just the kit not the oven) It's actually pretty cool and fun to play with. They had a blast taking turns decorating cookies. I have a feeling we're going to need a 2nd one for the little man.

2010-02-10T00:43:00.003-07:00

Pledge of Allegiance

Amarisa 4 yrs old

we are beyond proud of our little lady!

Once there was a snow man...

2010-02-09T00:00:00.002-07:00

We headed up to Graf yesterday and came across a Snowman on steroids!

I guess building a gi-normous snowman is better then whining about all the cold and snow!

Being our first big trip out for Garrett since he's done wearing diapers Kevin stopped along the way to teach him out to "potty" outside. He thought it was pretty cool! I'm so so proud of him. And so so happy we don't have to buy diapers anymore!

my little artist!

2010-02-03T09:37:00.003-07:00

I'm so so happy Amarisa, who LOVES drawing, did not get my artistic ability!

Here she is with her latest drawing. STITCH! Not too shabby for a 4 year old! Heck, it's better then I could do!

snow snow go away come again...

2010-02-02T01:35:00.003-07:00

umm never mind don't come again! I love the snow when it's so white and bright and beautiful. But does it really have to dump on us on the few days I actually NEED to leave the house and get things done??

Gotta love winter!

blast from the past

2010-01-29T06:43:00.004-07:00

Organizing pictures on my computer and came across some fun ones of the kids. It's amazing how fast they grow!

Amarisa 2 years old

Garrett at 8 months

HAPPY BIRTHDAY GRANDMA!

2010-01-28T04:44:00.005-07:00

Grandma and her Dionne Doll. Her sister bought her this doll and she still has it today. As a little girl I LOVED to sit and look at this doll.

Grandma has lived in 2 houses her WHOLE life! The one she was born in. The one she and Grandpa bought when they were married. And now with Dad and Mom in Utah. This is the house she and Grandpa bought and lived in for over 50 years!

Grandma pretends she's quiet and meek. HA I have proof she has a WILD SIDE too!

She had 4 GREAT kids.

Who I'm sure were PERFECT teenagers HA!

She will always be a BEAUTIFUL woman that I have learned so much from!

Grandma has now burried her parents, her husband and her siblings. But she is far from being alone. She has 4 children, 3 "in-law" children, 17 grandchildren, 10 "in-law" grandchildren 23 great-grandchildren and 1 more great grandchild on the way.

I love you Grandma! I hope you have a wonderful day and know how truly loved you are!

Go Ducks!

2010-01-01T07:23:00.003-07:00

The munchkins got some duplo blocks for Christmas and we've been have a great time building fun stuff. Daddy's been an airplane building fool. So here's our tribute to the Rose Bowl...

This and That

2010-01-01T07:00:00.003-07:00

It's been so crazy around here as I'm sure it has been for everyone. Here's some pictures of our happenings...

Amarisa and I made some super tasty mini-pumpkin pies on Christmas Eve

Christmas Eve before the festivities started

Santa Cookies Hot Chocolate and the Polar Express and new Jammies of course

About the only still picture we took on Christmas...

Teach the Children....

2009-12-10T08:43:00.003-07:00

I LOVE LOVE LOVE Christmas. Everything about it. It's so magical and wonderful! I came across a story the other day and loved it so much I decided to do a "scrapbook frame" out of it. I'd heard some parts here and there before and found several different versions but this was my favorite....

here's the complete story...
I had a visitor last night and this is how it happened. I had just finished the household chores for the night and was preparing to go to bed, when I heard a noise downstairs. I opened the door and to my surprise, Santa Claus stepped out from behind the Christmas tree.

I started to ask Santa what he was doing when I noticed tears in his eyes. His usual jolly manner was gone. Gone was the eager soul we all know.

Then he answered me with a simple statement, "Teach the children," he said. I was puzzled - What did he mean? He anticipated my question and with one quick movement, he brought forth a toy bag from behind the Christmas tree. As I stood bewildered, Santa said again, "Teach the children - teach them the old meaning of Christmas, the meaning that Christmas nowadays has forgotten."

I started to say, "How can I?" when Santa reached into his toy bag and brought out a SHINY STAR.

"Teach the Children that the star was the Heavenly sign of promise long ages ago. God himself provided a Savior for the world and the star was a sign of the fulfillment of that promise. The countless shining stars at night, one for each man, now show the burning hope of all mankind."

Santa quietly hung the star on the tree and drew from his bag a glittering RED CHRISTMAS TREE ORNAMENT. "Teach the children that Red is the first color of Christmas. It was used by faithful people to remind them of the blood which was shed for all the people by the Savior. Christ gave his life and shed his blood that every man might have God's gift of Eternal Life. Red is deep, intense, vivid, it is the greatest color of all. It is a symbol of the gift of God."

Santa hung the red ornament on the Christmas tree.

The deep green of the FIR TREE was a perfect background for the ornament. Here was the second color of Christmas.

"Teach the children that the pure green color of the fir tree remains green all year round," he said. This depicts the everlasting hope of mankind. Green is the youthful, hopeful, abundant color of nature. All the needles point Heavenward, symbol of man's returning thoughts toward heaven. The great green tree has been man's best friend. It has sheltered him, warmed him, made beauty for him."

Suddenly I heard a soft tinkling sound..."Teach the children that as the lost sheep are found by the sound of the BELL, it should ring for man to return to the fold - it means guidance and return. It further signifies that all are precious in the eyes of the Lord."

As the soft tinkling of the bell faded into the night, Santa drew forth a candle. He placed it on the table and the soft glow from its tiny flame cast a glow about the room. "Teach the children," Santa whispered, "That the candle shows man's thanks for the star of long ago. Its small light is the mirror of starlight. At first, candles were placed on the trees. They were like many glowing stars shining against the dark green. The colored lights have now taken over in remembrance."

Santa then drew out a gift. He pointed to the large BOW and said, "A bow is placed on a present to remind us of the spirit of brotherhood. We should remember that the bow is tied as men should be tied, all of us, together, with the bonds of good will towards each other. Good will forever is the message of the bow."

Santa drew from his toy bag a CANDY CANE and said, "Teach the children that the candy cane represents the shepherd's crook. The crook on the staff helps bring back the strayed sheep to the flock. The candy cane represents the helping hand we should show at Christmas time. The candy cane symbolizes that we are our brother's keeper."

Santa reached into his bag and brought out a HOLLY WREATH. He said, "Please teach the children that the wreath symbolizes the eternal nature of love and never ceases, stops, or ends. It should remind us of all the things of Christmas."

And finally Santa pulled out of his bag an ornament of HIMSELF and said, Santa Claus symbolizes the generosity and goodwill we feel at Christmas time.

As Santa looked around the room, he had a good feeling and he knew that I had learned many things tonight.

The last thing Santa said as he opened the door to leave was, "PLEASE TEACH THE CHILDREN THE MEANING OF CHRISTMAS."

And here's my new wall hanging...

I'm still going to give the frame an antiqued red affect but just haven't had the chance.

If it's gonna happen...

2009-11-20T05:21:00.003-07:00

If somethings gonna happen to the kids it's gonna happen when Dad's gone so Mom has to deal with all the blood and whatnot. I was upstairs cleaning and Amarisa came up and all she said was MOM. I turned around and she had her hands up covered in blood and her mouth was covered in blood. After checking her hands to make sure nothing was broken I moved on to the mouth. Yeah you know that little piece of skin that attaches your lip to your gums (really I'm not sure that's it's job but that's what it seems to do) Did you know it bleeds ALOT when cut/ripped/torn??? Yeah it does. She'd fallen on the toy box and apparently hit her lip in the process. The upside, she says she can't talk because it hurts. HMMM considering I was up ALL NIGHT working on scrapbooks for a group on post I'm not too hurt by the quiet in the house! And she's loving getting popsicles!

still laughing!

2009-11-12T05:57:00.003-07:00

Ok most people know I'm a HUGE Reba fan. Seriously love her! She had a show for a while that I find hilarious. On the show she often calls people a 'monkey butt' (typically her ex-husband and his mistress) Maybe it's the way she says it in her southern drawl I don't know but it cracks me up everytime. Chalking it up to being just Reba or southern slang until today. I shop drugstore.com and scanning through the sales I saw this....

There's actually a product on the market called LADY ANTI MONKEY BUTT! I'm not sure what's funnier the name of the product or the label!

Running Away!

2009-11-12T05:09:00.002-07:00

Garrett came to me with his coat on and asked for help zipping it. I asked him where he was going. He said he's running away. I asked if I could go with him. He said yeah. I asked where we were going. He said the play room. Bummer I was hoping for somewhere fun!

Mommy and Me

2009-11-11T13:16:00.003-07:00

I just love this girl. She knows oh so well, how to push my buttons, I think because she is so much like me! She has hit that age where we can really enjoy doing stuff together. Crafts and cooking and scrapbooking are our current favorites!

Her Veterans Day Hair Do..

We avoid going on post because of all the construction and with a big truck and tiny roads it's not fun. When we do go it ends up being a big deal (HA) who knew...Anywho Amarisa wanted a fun do so this is what we did...

Fun with Dad!

2009-11-04T00:51:00.003-07:00

Daddy got some playtime in before he left for training...

Kitchen Adventures

2009-11-04T00:24:00.005-07:00

Amarisa's first Apple Pie!

First time for all of us making Carmel Apples!

It was fun. I learned a thing or two AFTER they were made but who cares they didn't last long in the house anyway!

MY lightbulb moment

2009-10-17T00:33:00.003-06:00

I love lightbulb moments where you can see the light come on when they "get" something. This morning I had my own lightbulb moment regarding parenting these little monsters. Yes I know they look so cute and innocent...

But the last few weeks they've been driving me crazy. At first I thought it was cabin fever. We ran a bunch of errands the last few days and still..little monsters. Last night however I had a break through. This man has saved me, and likely my children HA

I got a bunch of Jim Brickman music on itunes last night and wow what a difference! They still run around and play but the craziness level has dropped dramatically! The harmony is returning to our home and I love it!

Snowing is falling all around...

2009-10-15T09:14:00.004-06:00

We got our first snowfall today. It's sooo cold. But the kids are super excited about it.

I love chicklets in footey jammies. I love it even more in matching jammies!

On the hunt...

2009-10-14T13:08:00.003-06:00

We went on a trek to find some big pinecones. I thought it would be fun to do the whole smear them with peanut butter and roll them in bird seed for our little friends.

Hitch'n a ride

Daddy went running through the branches...yes on purpose.

Sassy Pants...she walked quite a while like this...oh I'm in for it when she's a teenager

She is a beauty if I do say so myself...but I'm just the Mom.

Someone's getting tired of me snapping photos.

The trees are beautiful and reminds me of home. But we came up empty handed. Can you believe it?! We found ZERO pinecones! Oh well it was a wonderful afternoon together...

No Pro

2009-10-09T06:56:00.003-06:00

I'm far from being a pro at all this. Heck, half the time I don't know what I'm doing or how I did something but it's fun learning. But this is what I've been work'n on these days since my crafting orders have yet to show up. (I mean gee it's only been 6 weeks since I placed the darn orders) Anywhoo pretty fun should make for some fun scrapbooking pictures for our Disney World trip...

Adobe Photoshop Elements 6
Before:

After a little cropping and magic healer doohikey whatever that tool is called:

growing!

2009-09-08T07:00:00.003-06:00

I hate how fast they grow and yet I love it at the same time. I think with each new stage I love it even more. Garrett has such a funny personality and loves to make pepole laugh. He's so witty already!

a trip to the park

2009-09-07T23:37:00.004-06:00

We went to the park with another family. It was really pretty and almost peaceful. A bit stressful hoping to avoid a "slip" in the mucky water. So I didn't get quite as many pictures as I wanted...

a child's faith

2009-08-16T09:03:00.002-06:00

Amarisa said prayer at lunch and these were a few of the many many things she prayed for...

"...and bless us to be good, eat our vegit tables, save our money and be nice to our toys so we can go to Disney World and ring the bell to see Tinkerbell and give everyone hugs..."

I am beyond thrilled by the joy she experienced at Disney World truly a dream come true for this Mama. And even more I am humbled by a little ones faith that you can pray for ANYTHING and not matter how big or small you are heard.

Unconventional Ways

2009-08-05T01:00:00.005-06:00

The Army has a way of changing how you live and what is "normal". With Kevin gone so much I needed to simplify life for us at home. Something we were all happy with and easy for me to keep up with everything SO. We did some re-arranging. We moved most of the living room to the bedroom, the playroom to the living room and Kevin's room out of the stinky oil drum room into the playroom. Phew! What a task and I'm not quite done but everything in moderation right....

My nautical retreat..

The former living room now playroom:

And this is my way of pushing Kevin to get his stuff organized and put away...

(yeah he only has 16 pairs of boots I think he needs a new pair!)

This definately shows how long he's been in the Army though. He's got 4 different uniforms here and they're getting ready to launch a new one. He thinks I'm crazy for wanting to keep one set of everything. I think when our grandkids come to visit and we pull out all the different sets it will be fun to look back..

We are still alive!

2009-08-05T00:36:00.003-06:00

It's been a crazy summer and doesn't look like things are going to slow down for us anytime soon. I've been horrible at keeping this thing updated and at the pleading of two very pushy (wink wink) individuals I am finally updating (Dad and Teola)

"Summer" started off with graduation for Kevin from WLC (Warrior Leadership Course) We got drenched going in and when we got in it took a bit to find our soldier in the mix. But it was a nice short sweet and to the point graduation. That's the way I like them with 2 toddlers!

Doctor in the Making

2009-06-18T03:36:00.003-06:00

Amarisa is enthralled with all things medical. She loves to "examine" everyone's owies. So she was in complete heaven when Daddy came home from WLC with a ton of "owies" since part of the course included hand to hand combat training. We were all sitting on the couch this weekend watching a movie and she started her examination of all his owies. She came across one and asked about it. He explained it was a bruise. She looked at him all puzzled and then exclaimed, "Daddy that's not a Bruce that's an OWIE a Bruce is a shark!"

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD!

2009-06-04T00:09:00.004-06:00

I'm slightly late on this but I'm sure he'll forgive me...

I couldn't ask for a better Dad

You fought for us and never gave up

You have always been there for me you've been a witness to all my major life events

I only wish I'd inherited your green thumb!

Hope you felt like a King on your day!

Happy Birthday Pops/Papa we love you!

my little man

2009-06-01T12:43:00.002-06:00

Garrett likes to sneak off by himself and do this...

I hope he always loves books!

Our Day with Daddy

2009-05-31T14:22:00.004-06:00

We loaded up a picnic and headed up to Grafenwoehr (Graf) to see Kevin. The kids were so excited. Well, and so was I of course.

Just a bit of scenery...

Putting a flower behind Daddy's ear...yeah his buddies won't tease him for that one

Great big hugs from Garrett

So tired on the way home! Lots of exploring and sandpit playing and running around..

Leaving him behind was so hard AGAIN. But the worst part was a little boy and his mom leaving at the same time we were. The boy was about 18 months or so and kept bawling and crying, "DaDa" it broke my heart.

No place like home...

2009-05-29T16:03:00.004-06:00

We have a big wall in our front entry that I've had Kevin's countdown on from his latest deployment. I decided since he's home it's probably time to take it down. But what to replace it with. Since I've been homesick lately I thought I could bring a little bit of "home" in so I won't feel so disconnected. And it works wonders when we come in the house now this is what we see...

And because of this smart lady I found

http://brynalexandra.blogspot.com/2008/07/how-to-hang-art-wall.html

I only put 6 holes in the wall!

My funny girl

2009-05-29T15:13:00.003-06:00

Amarisa wanted me to take pictures of her the other day. I'm not sure where she came up with some of the poses but I swear it was ALL her!

This picture cracks me up. When I was a little girl I used to make this same face. (used to drive someone crazy everytime I did too)

Of course she had to take them in her new jammies and dress shoes too! What a character!

Twinkle Twinkle Little Star

2009-05-27T08:09:00.003-06:00

Garrett's version of Twinkle Twinkle Little Star...

when daddy comes home...fast forward version

2009-05-26T14:58:00.003-06:00

Amarisa singing her own fast forward version!

She keeps us laughing!

2009-04-19T23:03:00.002-06:00

We went down to the Edelweiss Lodge and Resort in Garmisch, Germany this weekend for a Marriage Retreat. Hoping for a great time it ended up being OK the classes for the retreat were pretty boring and unlike the Spouses Retreat when the guys were gone this retreat was a lot more religion based which normally doesn't bother me until they start talking about marriage lasting only until you die and stuff like that that we don't believe in. But anyway moving on...

We walked over to the PX that's across the street and on the way back we were passing this German couple out for a night walk. (side note in the German culture there's no such thing as personal space) The man in this couple reaches over and touches Amarisa on the head. She gets this funny look, one eye brow up the other down kinda scowl, looks back at the guy and says, "KNOCK-I-OFF" and bounces off on her way! We laughed the rest of the way back to the lodge!

Then last night Kevin and the kids were running around being silly and Amarisa runs off. Shortly after she comes running back with her backpack. Crouches down with it gets a funny look on her face and reaches in. She, with much enthusiasm, pulls out a barbie holds it in the air and yells...BARBIE-Q!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BABE!

2009-04-19T07:01:00.002-06:00

I love you so much! Happy Birthday!!! I know you don't think birthday's are that big a deal but they are to us and we're very glad you were born 30 some years ago ;)

LOVE YOU!
Becky, Amarisa and Garrett

The Best Vacation EVER

2009-03-24T16:47:00.004-06:00

We just got back from our vacation in Florida. It was so amazing! We went to Sea World one day and spent 6 days at Disney World and loved every minute of it. It was warm and beautiful and MAGICAL! I only took 954 pictures and had the photopass people take 94 pictures so there's a few to choose from. Here are just a few of them...

(more pictures tomorrow they're loading super slow tonight)

Gett'n perdy for Daddy..

2009-02-28T00:54:00.003-07:00

HE'S HOME

2009-02-28T00:38:00.003-07:00

HE'S HOME!

2009-02-28T00:28:00.001-07:00

We're on cloud nine!

Kid Zone

2009-02-22T07:20:00.005-07:00

We're getting cabin fever here so Saturday I took the kids to the Kid Zone on post. They LOVE it there and I love that it wears them out so they sleep fabulously!

I am my father's daughter

2009-02-19T01:45:00.002-07:00

Like my Father, and my Father's Father and well probably his father before that...I am a planner! I like details taken care of. So since we decided to go to Disney World I have been scouring the internet for everything from coupons to tips on going with toddlers. The other night I was reading tips on what to do if your child gets lost and how to avoid it to begin with. Not really sure if Amarisa even knows my name and Kevin's other then Mommy and Daddy we had a chat.

mommy: Amarisa if you get lost and can't find mommy and daddy and someone asks what your daddy's name is what do you say
Amarisa: KEVIN ******
mommy: Good Job! If someone asks your Mommy's name what do you say
Amarisa: THE QUEEN!
Yes I have taught this girl well....very well!

Special Dress for a Special Day!!

2009-02-14T11:35:00.003-07:00

I don't think Kevin will be checking the blog before he comes home :) so I think I'm safe in posting this. If not oh well, he's not much for surprises anyway...

I finished Amarisa's dress for the big day and I'm quite happy with the results considering I did it off the cuff with no pattern grant it it's not all that elaborate but still. Poor girl I even woke her up in the middle of the night for a fitting to see if I was on the right track. The best part is when she tried it on all finished she got that little grin like she felt BEAUTIFUL but was kinda embarrassed about it. sooo cute!

this was my inspiration so you get the idea of how it will all come together...

My Little Shadow

2009-02-07T01:31:00.003-07:00

Just hang'n in the kitchen with Momma telling me stories! I kinda like this kid I think I'll keep her.

don't you just hate it when you can't get the picture to turn right!

BACK IN THE CYBER WORLD

2009-02-06T05:01:00.002-07:00

FINALLY! My lovely new neighbors tried hacking into my internet service and screwed everything up! We are finally back in the world of cyber viewing and I don't feel so disconnected from the rest of the world. After going through 300 emails! (half from the FRG leader alone) I can now get back to the real business at hand...shopping and blogging!

Still no return date yet! but we're sure getting antsy over here!!!

HURRY HOME DADDY!

Still Here!

2009-01-25T14:17:00.003-07:00

I'm still around just really really busy! We've been getting ready for Kevin to come home (no date yet bummer!) getting ready for the welcome home celebration attending a memorial service for the 3 soldiers we lost in the company earlier this month and this weekend we're out a deployed spouses retreat! It's been a lot of fun. But more eye opening then anything. I appreciate my husband sooooo much more after hearing what some of these women are going through. I have a pretty awesome husband! I'm soooo proud and thankful to be married to HIM! I can't wait for him to come home so we can go to the marriage retreat together! They're put on by the chaplains and are such a great learning experience. Not to mention a paid getaway can't beat that!

I took the kids swimming today we ended up being in the pool for 3 HOURS! They're both little water dogs. I didn't even realize we'd been in the pool that long until we came back to the room and realized it was time to go to dinner! Now they're snoring away all tucked into bed!

LET'S GOOOOOOO!!!!!

2009-01-13T13:37:00.004-07:00

Disney World here we come! We got our Disney Magical Express passes and luggage tags in the mail today. It finally feels like it's really going to happen. I know it hasn't been as long as some deployments but this one has definately taken it's toll. This weekend we had 3 more casualties. I'm more then ready for Kevin to come home and to go on vacation as a family. It will be wonderful to watch the kids and play in the pools and just enjoy US.

We love you hurry home!

For you Babe!

2009-01-10T15:34:00.002-07:00

Dear Lord,
Give me the greatness of heart to see the difference between duty and his love for me.
Give me a task to do each day, to fill the time when he is away.
When he is in a foreign land, keep him safe in your loving hand.
And, when duty is in the field, please protect him and be his shield.
And Lord, when deployment is so long, please stay with me and keep me strong.
AMEN

Hurry home, keep your head down, watch your back and stay out of the humvee!!!
We love you so much can't wait for you to get back.

XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOX

sooooo excited!

2009-01-10T00:43:00.004-07:00

We don't have a date yet...ya'll love this one...we won't find out when Kevin comes home until about a week before could be only 3 days before!...BUT after they all get home and just before we get to go on leave we're having a Hawaiian Luau Party! It's gonna be so much fun. And my fabulous ebay whiz of a friend won me two amazing dresses for Amarisa and I. The boys will be all decked out too. Kevin even said he wants coconut shells! Yes, I am sooo posting those pictures.

My dress...

Amarisa's dress I think she's going to look adorable in this

more pics

2009-01-09T11:45:00.002-07:00

more Christmas pics...

2009-01-09T11:20:00.003-07:00

I forgot to post pictures from the Edelweiss Lodge we stayed at when the fam first got here....it was wonderful. I can't wait to go with Kevin very family friendly. Even the other guests were good about kids. Which of course makes it a more relaxing time for me cause I'm always worried my kids will disrupt people as cute as they are they are very busy and active and not everyone likes that in children. Myself I'd rather that then kids that sit in front of the tv watching movie after movie...

Playing in the snow!

2009-01-09T10:26:00.002-07:00

We spent about 30 minutes getting ready to go outside in all our layers (it's really really really cold here) and about 10 minutes actually playing before going back in freezing but the 10 minutes were fun!

taken a cat nap

2009-01-08T13:44:00.001-07:00

I hope they always love each other this much!

Body Image

2009-01-03T12:34:00.003-07:00

I'm all for presents and surprises but getting on the scale after having family here and enjoying all the tasty food Germany has to offer is not my idea of a fabulous gift! So tonight I started pushing it hard again and working out. Having two kids and being the "single-mom" at the moment makes it hard to get to the gym. The kids were watching a movie downstairs so I put in my lovely Billy Banks Boot Camp in upstairs and got to work. Amarisa comes up a little while into the work-out and decides to "try" it. She's got better coordination then me I'll give her that but she stops in the middle of one of the sets and says, "Mom, what are we doing" I respond, "mommy's trying to get skinny" (thinking to myself great I'm one of those mom's that's going to give their 3 year old a complex about weight now) but no not my child she smiles all cute and says, "oh you want to be skinny like Amarisa?"

Now I just hope she keeps that confidence forever!

HAPPY FREAK'N 2009

2008-12-31T16:19:00.002-07:00

I suppose after being married to someone for 9 years your bound to rub off onto each other. One thing Kevin has always hated is fireworks. Not necessarily the big ones "officials" do but more the firecrackers you do on your own. Mostly I think because of the lovely likeness to gun shots they resemble. Today I discovered I don't like them so much either. Being in a foreign country living in a neighborhood with two other American families is a little uneasy when the hub is gone. Tonight my American neighbor is gone so it's just me in the area. And the locals started fireworks/crackers at 7:30pm and shot them off every hour on the hour after that and so far they've been going for the last 30 min. It seriously sounds like they're doing them on my front doorstep. ENOUGH ALREADY!

Hope everyone else has a better New Year's! I myself curled up in bed and watched "The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2" all by my lonesome! Anyone feel sorry for me yet?

At least we had a fabulous Christmas with my family and Kevin on the webcam. That makes up for a quiet New Years.

Paying Tribute

2008-12-30T12:36:00.001-07:00

Dachau Concentration Camp

I wasn't going to go with everyone to the Concentration Camp. I didn't want to be depressed I was trying really hard to stay positive about having Christmas without Kevin but with our time frame and other things the kids and I went anyway. I'm so glad I did. When Kevin's home we'll do the full thing this time the kids and I and Andrew headed back to the car early it was cold and I didn't want the kids to see everything. Some images and areas are a bit graphic for little ones. But definately something I believe everyone should experience. It was very humbling to witness.

CASTLES

2008-12-30T12:26:00.004-07:00

Hohenschwangau and Neuschwanstein Castles

Our trip to the castles was soooo cold! But well worth the trip. We took a horse and carriage up to the Neuschwanstein Castle Amarisa was in heaven the rest of us were just happy to have a break from the hiking. I think we were all excited to find the cafe open and warm. Tasty food and heat it was great!

What an adventure!

2008-12-30T12:02:00.004-07:00

Christkindlesmarkt Nuremberg, Germany
Christmas Markets are a major event in Germany. The Nuremberg Market was the first and others have tried to mirror this image. The Christmas Angel is a major symbol of Christmas in Germany. The kids and I got seperated from everyone else and were in a mob of people when we were trying to get to the giant two story carousel. All of a sudden the crowd opened up and there was this perfect circle around us. I looked up and there was the Christmas Angel! It was crazy this mob of people following her around and we just "happen" to be standing in the circle with her having no idea what an icon she really is. She bent down and started talking to Amarisa asking her where she was from and Amarisa proudly responded, "AMERICA". They wished each other a Merry Christmas and instantly we were in the middle of a mob of people again. It was so crazy and fun!

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY

2008-12-27T17:21:00.000-07:00

Wowee 9 years babe! We've come a long way and I'd do it all over again but only with you! I wouldn't trade you for all the chocolate in the world! We've been blessed with a happy life and two amazing kids I couldn't ask for more..ok maybe you actually being home to celebrate but that's just a small request I hear Disney World is a great place for celebrating...something about making all your dreams come true....

XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO

Tuscany sounds good for number 10!

WE LOVE YOU!

2008-12-07T17:36:00.002-07:00

I was going to post pictures from our crazy busy weekend but blogger is on the fritz so I guess I won't.

I do want to say that I can't put into words how bad I wish our Daddy could be here for Christmas! Being gone in December just basically stinks! He misses out on my birthday, Christmas, our Anniversary and New Year's. I guess there's always next year right?!

I am thankful that Grandpa and Nana and Uncle Andrew get to come and spend Christmas in Germany though. It will be a nice side-track for all of us and will help keep us all positive as Amarisa is determined to "not be happy until Daddy is home" I think when she sees them at the airport she'll be ok with being a little happy. See you in 7 days!!

I love you honey hope Santa's boxes get to you soon so you can start in on the festivities! We are proud of you!

MIC*KEY**MOUSE

2008-12-03T13:13:00.003-07:00

We had a birthday in our house! And of course I had to have a Mickey Mouse Birthday Party what else!? I think Amarisa was more excited then I was but she made it all worth while. All day she kept telling me she wanted the "party". Come to find out "party" in Amarisa's world means birthday cake. hahaha pretty cute. She even helped me make it and decorate it. She made turning the big 30 much easier to deal with.