Life as a Hauch

Rhino the Roman 2/18/11 at OneTrueMedia.com

2011-02-18T14:44:00.001-08:00

He's the handsome one on the end between the boy with the blue shirt and the girl-

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Riley's first hockey game!

2011-01-02T19:40:00.001-08:00

Riley's first ever hockey game! She scores her first goal! (did not capture that on video). Enjoy!

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Just Dance!

2010-12-27T16:29:00.000-08:00

Aunt Teresa doing "Just Dance" with her grandaughters and Riley on Christmas. It was so fun to watch!

She is a grov'in 80 + year old! Way to go Teresa!

Roman Turns 7!

2010-10-27T20:19:00.000-07:00

Roman turned 7 today...where does the time go? As I was putting him to bed the night before his birthday he said, "Mom, I can't wait to wear my 7 shirt tomorrow" and I said, "7 shirt?" He says, "Yeah, you always make us shirts for our birthdays." Oh, yes, yes, mommy does...TOTALLY FORGOT! I didn't have any iron-on paper or even a t-shirt...nothing. Thankfully I found some fabric crayons in the back cupboard of my scrapbooking area and a sweatshirt he was bound to outgrow (it was a size 4-5) and this is what I could come up with...Not bad huh?

We got him a Lego's watch and he was so excited

And more Lego's...the kid loves Lego's

On top of it being his birthday, it was also "Hat" day at school...it was turning out to be the best day EVER!

Happy birthday buddy! I remember the night before you were born like it was yesterday...the waiting, the anticipation...were your going to be a boy or a girl...It was so great to hear, "It's a Boy!" You are so loved! We are so blessed! Thank you for being our little Roman!

Pumpkins!

2010-10-27T20:03:00.000-07:00

Time to carve our pumpkins and Roman has decided to use the stem as his pumpkin's nose...So clever!

Riley has decided to make a more traditional looking pumpkin...one of my favorites :)

I would just like to say, the kids didn't do ANY of this...okay, they drew the faces, but then walked away and then Todd and I made the Jack-O-Lanterns. But, since they do look cute next to the pumpkins, I'll let them take the credit.

Roman found his way back to the living room for the picture...he was MIA for most of the work...again just to make the photo look better :)

Giving his (Todd's) pumpkin bunny ears.

Todd and I enjoyed our night at the table carving out the pumpkins for our loving children and our children enjoyed watching. Good family time!

Costumes!

2010-10-27T19:49:00.000-07:00

My friend Anna made my kids costumes this year...Roman is supposed to be the "Wolverine" from Iron Man and Riley is an Owl. We tried them on last night to SEE if they would work...Roman says he isn't sure he can wear the bottoms...we'll see come Sunday. Isn't the Owl hat so cute? I love it! It is made out of those scrubber's you use to clean your pots. When I say "YOU" I mean you...I have never used those before. :)

The Wolverine!

The Owl

Goofy boy.

The hat Rocks!

And did you notice Riley's new smile??? Her braces came off a few weeks ago...

Fall is in the Yard

2010-10-14T21:05:00.000-07:00

It was such a great weekend weather wise! We were in the yard all weekend long. The kids made this cute scarecrow. Hope Todd doesn't mind the kids used his favorite overalls... ha!

The yard is ready for Fall!

Lastly...What do you think of this costume??? I LOVE IT! My friend Anna is going to make it for Riley this Halloween. Romo is going as a Wolverine...I post that costume soon.

Riley got her 1st Phase of braces off on Tuesday and I will post her after photo soon...She looks so grown up!

Anyone else having issues with their 1st graders??? Our Mr. Roman is having a hard time dealing with life and rules lately and I am hoping it is a phase...even though I feel this phase has been going on forever? I love that kid and maybe he is just too close to my own SELF that we are knockin heads a little this week...Wish me luck for a better week ahead!

1st Day of School Pictures...Yes, I am behind

2010-09-30T17:50:00.000-07:00

1st Day of 1st grade and 3rd grade

Special pancakes for the 1st day

Romo in his super cute outfit!

Getting ready to head to the bus

Kids at the bus stop...Becky, Veronica, Hallie, Jack, Romo, Riley and Parker

It was a little chilly today!

Off to the bus

Have fun!

Gary, my neighbor, was making fun of me for taking so many pictures...he asked if I was going to take a picture of them on the bus EVERY year, since I just took one last Sept. The answer to that is YES!

To make him happy I snapped one of him too.

Romo in his cool classroom

Roman and Mr. Wade, his teacher

Riley in her classroom

Riley with her teacher Ms. Knight (in the background) :)

They had such a great 1st day! I'm so happy they love school!

Camp Kota!

2010-08-18T21:10:00.000-07:00

The kids went to camp the 1st week of August, called CAMP KOTA! It was a week long day camp from

8:30-3pm. They did everything campers do at camp, they swam, hiked, learned camp songs and met great friends. They loved every minute of it and asked if they could go every week next year! Each week at camp the camp has a theme day...the week Riley and Roman were there it was "CRAZY HAIR DAY". Does their hair look crazy enough??

And if you are 7 and older you are able to sleep overnight on Thurs night at the camp with all of your camping buddies. Riley was able to stay, but Roman will have to wait for his camp out till next summer.

She was so excited...Mom was a little nervous.

Thursday night of camp they have a family picnic and program. It was a great night for parents to learn all about what their kids have been doing all week.

Here is Roman's buddy, Zander and Roman with their counselor, Kaitlyn

The 3 stooges....Zander, Charlie and Romo (hockey buds)

Each group had their own skit to perform...Riley's group was up. She was so nervous. It was so funny.

They pretended they were at a circus?? and were viewing the most ugliest man (who was under the towel)...one by one they would look under the towel and run off screaming...

Riley had the giggles

Roman's group was next. They sang a cute song.

Roman getting shy now that the microphone is in front of him.

Still sporting the blue hair

Riley and Lainey, one of her good friends and one of her tent mates

Lainey has never been on a sleepover other than family...She was so excited. Her mom, Julie and I joked that we were going to do a drive by late in the night to make sure they were okay.

It was getting time for the parents to head home and leave their campers

Bye kids! Have fun! We love you!

The next day when I went to pick up Riley, she jumped in the car and said I don't want to leave. It was the best week ever! She was so happy! Roman and Riley are still talking about it and I am sure they will be for months to come. Can't wait for next year!

2nd Annual Camping Trip with the Burfeinds

2010-08-18T20:29:00.000-07:00

Camping in Lake Elmo, site #64

Here is our green machine (minivan) and our tent...well, the neighbors tent. Thank you Gefroh's for always letting us borrow it.

Roman, Avae, Ella, Riley, and Hans at the campsite after we arrived

The 2 buddies, Romo and Hans

Girls enjoying s'mores

Time for sparklers. This is Avae's heart.

Riley's circle

Ella's swirl

Roman's rock star

The next morning we walked to the beach. It was a great place to be because it was SO hot and humid!

We got to the beach before the lifeguards did for the day...I guess we better keep an eye on the kids then.

Avae and Ella applying sunscreen

This is the life of Roman...not a care in the world

Todd without his boot on is able to enjoy dipping his toes

Hans

Sara and Ella taking a rest from all the swimming

Time for dinner.

Does it look hot out??? Look at poor Avae's sweaty head.

Roman is upset because he can't sit by Hans at dinner, Riley beat him to the table.

Kids

After dinner we took the kids to a bird show that the campsite was putting on. The bugs were out and some of the kids (Roman) complained that it was boring...we didn't stay long.

Hans found an acorn

Does anyone remember those jeans??? I wanted a pair so bad in high school

Our last night.

It was a great weekend! Thanks Sara and Jon for always asking us to come, but next year can I get in the camper?? Where's the love??

BAA Softball Tournament

2010-08-18T19:49:00.000-07:00

In late July Riley's team, the Dolphins, were in the BAA tournament. We were so proud of our girls! They had a great season for having most 1st timers on the team! Her team ended up taking 3rd place in the tournament! 3rd out of 10 teams! It was so fun to watch them improve game after game!

This is Sydney, Lainey, Riley and Jazz

Roman was even helping during warm-ups (our junior coach)

Riley during batting practice

Scoots!

Coach (with scooter)

Love the pink and purple bats!

Riley caught one of the innings!

Great game Dolphins!

The Dolphins!

Last cheer of season! 1, 2, 3 Goooooooooooo....

DOLPHINS!

Coach passing out trophies

We had to put up a shelf in Riley's room for her NEW (1st) trophy.

Way to go Ri! We are so PROUD of you!

This is Twins Territory

2010-08-18T19:24:00.000-07:00

Todd and I went to our first Twins game in the new stadium! It was so cool! Even had special treatment for my husband who was on his scooter. :) Love that!

Here is our money maker, Joe MAUER!

My favorite! Cuddyer!

I love how so many people come to watch!

Huge Jumbo Tran!

um...Us again.

Joe Mauer

The entrance...on our way out. I think Todd is tired! What a great date night for us! It was so nice to go out just the 2 of us.

Twins did lose, but we still saw a great game and an awesome stadium!

I Heart Stony Lake (Part Two)

2010-07-11T21:26:00.000-07:00

Roman got tired of waiting for the boat parade to start that he headed back into the lake.

Riley, Reed, Roman and Brock

I love this picture...their faces are priceless

Roman jumping!

and the boat parade begins...

It looks chilly, but it was not. We did not have a cool day all week.

This is a funny picture... I made the cake (my mom made the cake, I just decorated it). Well, the joke has always been when we are taking pictures, we need to take them of Angie's kids so they have photo's for their graduation boards at their grad parties because Angie doesn't take picture's...So this one will be titled, "baking with Mom".

MN Twins boys (that was their red, white, and blue clothes)

The kids were on a scavenger hunt and I thought Roman looked so cute skipping.

The kids were told to skip so everyone could catch up.

This picture makes me laugh because Riley is laughing so hard at Quinn...wonder what they are talking about???

Another beautiful day at the lake

Reed and Roman jumping in

Riley

Payton, Ellie, Reed, Noelle, Riley, and Avery (all in order of age)

Riley started holding her breath in the picture above

Now Roman has joined the group

Paddle boat time

...and now time for "Big Mable"

Even I got to go for a ride...so fun!

We decided to try Nisswa's turtle races this year...every year we go to Longville for their turtle races and NOW we know why...Nisswa's Blew! They run threw it sooooooo fast. We missed out turn and had to get in the next heat, they had no games for the kids to do outside of the turtle race...it was totally LAME! We will be back in Longville next year!

We DID however enjoy a little A&W while we were there.

waiting for my float...

This is pretty much the only turtle race picture I got...Why? oh yes, because they rush you in and out and never give you a chance to snap a photo. (can you tell I didn't like it?)

We did have fun at the "Fun Sisters" shop

the 4 of us

More lake time...

playing, hit the donut

they were pretty much soaking wet all week from all the fun in the lake

Roman doing what brothers do...bug sisters

Taking a break with Nana

Even "Scoots" was having fun relaxing

Just a few more jumps before heading home...

His face cracks me up

This is Roman walking the red carpet as Elvis saying, "How ya doing folks?"

Riley-Roo

Bug Boy

We had such a great week! The kids were so fun and we truly were able to relax and enjoy each other! I love the cabin and I love watching how much our kids love it too. Can't wait for our next trip up to the lake!

I Heart Stony Lake (Part One)

2010-07-11T20:19:00.000-07:00

* Warning * Lots and Lots of pictures!

Started our vacation at the beach...swimming, face painting, water balloons, egg toss and a barbecue.

Riley taking the 1st leap of many

Riley adding Noelle to the jump...I wonder how this is going to go.

Looks painful

Who's that kid???

O-oh, Jon is taking Roman out to the deep water...what did Roman do to Jon?

Time for Face Painting done by Angie Soine...

Payton

Paige

Reed

Riley

Noelle

Luke

Avery

Quinn

Greta

May

Ellie

Roman

Will, Jack and Brock

Annie

Most of the kids after the face painting...it was so hot, some of them couldn't wait for the group picture and had to get back into the lake

Our face painter, Angie Soine! Looks like the girls did a little painting on her too.

Time for water balloons

Jon throwing another kid in...

Adult game: Egg Toss. We were paired up with our significant others...Since Todd was out of commission my partner was Angie Beth...we did pretty good. Jay and Karri won the gold.

Here comes "Scoots"

Roman and his buddy Luke

Karri even got "inked" with a "I Heart Jay"

Angie Beth was "inked" too with Jay (her Jay "Senior")

Time for fireworks.

This is Roman, showing his Mama how much he loves her (upside-down)

Brock, Jack and Roman

Fireworks...nice job, Troy!

Sunday was softball time (for the kids) in town.

Even "Scoots" was playing. (Catcher)

Sherrie was our grill master this year

Jack and Riley

Look at his face, he was swinging so hard

Look at her tongue...too funny

Burger break

Nana and Riley-Roo

His tongue matches the sky...what was he eating?

Waiting for the boat parade to start

Dad and Romo

Stay tune...more pix to come!

Bead Friends

2010-06-27T09:27:00.000-07:00

Roman has been obsessed with our pearl-er beads,

(the beads you put together and then iron so they melt together).

He saw the latest "Shrek" and "Toy Story" movies, so he made his own main characters.

"Shrek"

"Buzz" and "Woody"

I know I am his mother, but this kid is talented! :)

How cute is that?

Day 3

2010-06-24T19:02:00.000-07:00

So here Todd is on Day 3 after his Achilles surgery...notice the new shirt. I had to go to work today and leave him all alone, so I packed him a cooler full of drinks and sandwiches and salads and placed it right next to the bed, so he could be taken care of without being there. HE SURVIVED! :)

We have this bathroom in the basement that I never use, but Todd and Roman use A LOT. Well, since Todd is stuck upstairs, he has not been in our basement bathroom for a while. I had to use it today and I almost passed out from the strong smell from someone not flushing after they had pee'd...(Roman). It could have been sitting in there for a day or 2...YUCK!

So, look who had to clean it. I think he will be flushing from now on.

Lessen learned...I hope!

And Nana if you are reading this....He is FINE! It was good for him. :)

Day 2

2010-06-23T08:52:00.000-07:00

Thankfully we made it upstairs last night...this will be his home for the next few days.

Still trying to figure out how to take charge of his pain, nothing seems to be working yet...just ICE, ICE, Vicotin, ICE, Advil, ICE, ICE and so on and so on.

Good thing USA soccer is on today to keep him busy...I just heard screaming from upstairs, hopefully that means they scored and not that he fell out of bed. I better go check...

Oooh My Achilles...

2010-06-22T18:02:00.000-07:00

Sometimes playing this sport makes you have things in your life you have never had before...

...like a knee scooter

...some crutches (do you like the duct tape?)

...and a newly repaired Achilles, thanks to Dr. Boyd from TRIA

only 8 more weeks babe before you can walk again...

But, just so we are clear...your softball career is over. Sorry buddy!

Roman Graduates from Kindergarten!

2010-06-10T14:38:00.000-07:00

Roman had his graduation from Kindergarten today...They sang songs about school, counting and silly songs.

Roman was nervous at first to sing in front of all of us, but eventually got into it. The full day kindergartners were nice enough to come and help Roman's 1/2 day class sing...

This was the silly song...

Bottom up...

Tongue out, eyes shut...

Mrs. Schulz passing out Roman's diploma

Papa was so nice to come see Roman graduate.

Roman was very excited!

Roman with his teacher, Mrs. Schulz (love her!)

Me with the big soon to be 1st grader

Roman with his buddy, Parker

The 4 buddies...Roman, Benjamin, Ryan and Parker

Roman in his classroom one last time before moving down the hall :)

Can not believe how fast time flies...He is getting so big!

Congrats Roman! We love you!

So Much Ball...

2010-06-08T21:34:00.000-07:00

Softball, baseball, softball, softball...We are never to far from a field. Riley and Roman play Mondays and Wednesdays, Todd plays Tuesday nights and I play Wednesdays too...Crazy at our house right now...but I love to watch and play, so it's great!

My friend Jenna took these picture's of Riley on Monday at her game and I just love them. Thanks Jenna!

Love the tongue popping out!

Go St. Stephen's Go!

2010-06-08T21:25:00.000-07:00

Our church has a softball team that plays Tues. nights that Todd started up...it is so much fun to watch.

All of us girls come with our kids to cheer them on. It is a fun family night!

Cheddar and RJ

Miller running to 2nd

RJ pitching and Joe at 1st

Cheddar and Todd ready for the hit

Cheddar heading to 3rd...

Not sure where Todd is heading to if Cheddar is looking straight up

RJ, Todd, and Mike

Len

This picture is so great because it shows that Len is totally safe...but the best is that Len over runs 2nd after the photo was taken, so then he was tagged out...Bummer!

RJ getting ready to sneak over to 3rd

St. Stephen's WINS!!!!! 11-5 Good game guys

Team Photo: Nate (Chopper), Len (Len), Eric (Herbie or Coins), Mike, (Packer), Eric (Butter), Todd (Coach), Joe (Reggie), Mike (All- American), Ryan (RJ), Colby (Cheddar), and Ryan (Miller)

Not pictured: Eric P. and Aaron K.

1st year in this league and they are undefeated! Way to go St. Stephen's!

Woodlake Nature Center-Field Trip

2010-06-08T20:52:00.000-07:00

Today, I went on Roman's field trip to the Woodlake Nature Center. It is a great field trip for sunny days, but kinda hard on rainy days... can you see the rain jackets in the picture??? It was a VERY rainy day!

This was my group for the trip...Angela, Parker, Roman, and Shantay.

Did you notice Roman's haircut???

Since it was so rainy out, the nature center brought the nature inside for us...whew!

We learned all about a marsh...how cattails grow near them, frogs, minnows, mosquitoes, snails, water bugs, and many more live in the marsh or near by. They bought the marsh to us. The kids were able to have their own cup full of marsh to explore.

Roman and Parker checking it out.

Roman and his teacher listening about turtles

Feeling a shell of a turtle

Roman's buds...Parker and Benjamin

Roman was totally fine with petting the painted turtle...

but, wanted nothing to do with this one. This poor turtle was hit by a car and lost his 2 back legs...he can still get around just fine with his 2 front legs...he's a turtle, how fast do they really move anyways?

Great day, even if it was inside!

Can't believe Roman is almost a 1st grader. Last field trip as a kindergartner...has graduation on Thurs. how many times have I mentioned time is moving to fast???

BASEBALL!!!!!!

2010-06-08T06:34:00.000-07:00

Roman had his BAA weekend at Dred Scott this weekend...to bad the first game on Sat. was rained out. The sun came out for Sunday's game and he was having a blast. Can you see any hair coming out from under his hat??? No? Hmmm...That is because Todd and Roman got matching haircuts. My baby cut all of his hair off. I miss his hair...but what a great cut for Summer!

All ready to hit

I wonder if he can see under his helmet???

Good form

And he HITS it...

Run buddy...

He makes it safe to 1st. Way to go ROMAN!

It was so fun to watch him. He is really having fun and more fun just goofing off with his teammates.

GO LIONS!

Spring Dance Recital

2010-06-05T17:13:00.000-07:00

Riley had her Spring dance recital last night and has a final show tomorrow afternoon (Sunday). I'll be honest, I have not been impressed with this program at all. The girls practiced for 45 minutes each week from September till June and had 2 recitals, Winter and Spring. They may have had 2 different songs that they danced to, but the dance routine was similar if not the SAME. We spent a lot of money for her to learn one dance the entire year??? Are you kidding me???

BUT...then you see this face and how can you not think it was worth it. She is so happy!

Sorry it is so blurred, those girls were moving!

Look at her...

So, as unhappy as I was with the program, I couldn't help but smile. She was so happy to be performing in front of this huge crowd! Way to go Riley! You rocked that dance! (as you should have)

Riley and Valerie

Phy-Ed Fun Day @ Westwood

2010-06-05T16:35:00.000-07:00

Today I was out at the kids school for their Phy-Ed fun day. I helped at one of the station's called,

"Steal the Bag." It was fun to see Riley and Roman get excited about the different games they were at.

Here is Riley with a few of her classmates.

Love the action shots!

I worried the day would be cancelled due to all the rain that fell the night before...But by the time it got started, the clouds started to roll away and the sun was coming out.

Riley with more friends

Here comes Roman's class...

Roman's group

Rock stars

Run Romo!

Still looking cool...

Roman's class was ready to go back inside to end their day

After Roman was done for the day, him and I met Riley for lunch. The school put on this great bar-b-que. Hot dogs and Brats.

Riley's class heading inside to fill up water bottle's and sunscreen before finishing the day outside with more Phy-Ed fun!

Riley with her teacher, Mrs. Walton

I'm bummed I didn't get a picture of Roman with his teacher...I'll have to try next week at his Kindergarten graduation! Time is moving to fast...

Memorial Weekend 2010

2010-06-05T16:25:00.000-07:00

Cabin fun with Cousin Garrett

Boy's playing with Todd Thoma's iPhone app "tooting"

Todd and Stacey loving each other

Shish-Kabob time! Man, did we have a lot of food to Skewer!

Looking good!

Dad working the grill

Reagan, Jodi, and Nancy helping

Dad, Traci and Phil discussing the art of grilling

Morning breakfast in the garage.

Time for tubing (Reed and Riley)

Roman and Garrett's turn

Looks like it is sinking

Reed, Garrett, Roman, and Ri

So fun to watch them having fun!

I think Riley is singing

The weather was perfect!

Garrett jumping in

Reed (our other kid) :)

Boys look tired

Riley trying to warm up...lake water is still a little cool.

Flag on the dock

my dad always has some type of project going on...

We re-landscaped the gardens...made them bigger.

Hopefully making them bigger will make mowing a little easier.

Mom in her garden

This kid cracks me up!

Reed with the goofball

Showing off their rock collections

So happy for it to be cabin season again! The best part of Summer is getting to spend a lot of time at the lake and Memorial weekend is always the kick-off to our cabin time!

Bieber, The Goldfish

2010-06-05T16:00:00.000-07:00

I picked Roman up from daycare the Friday before Memorial weekend and he comes running out holding a Zip-lock baggie with a fish swimming inside. Roman says, "Mom, I would like you to meet Bieber, as in Justin Bieber." My thoughts...what am I going to do with a fish when we are leaving for the cabin in a couple hours???

Since we had no fish stuff at home I had to fill up a glass bowl we had gotten as a wedding gift for Bieber's temporary home till we returned from the cabin. Then, just prayed he would still be swimming when we returned 3 days later. He was thankfully. :)

Well, this past week, Bieber got a new home...How cute is that???

He loves it!

Riley's Softball Game

2010-06-05T15:44:00.000-07:00

Well 1st of all here is the "Hair"...this is what it looked like after the twisties were removed.

Her hair is so thick!

Playing in the field

Some of the girls hanging out on the bench

Getting ready to bat...Look at that hair.

Let's go #14

Nice hit!!!!!!!!

Loving the socks!

Girls

Big Win!!! Time for treats!

Crazy Hair Day!!

2010-06-05T15:36:00.000-07:00

Crazy Hair Day @ school

Kids waiting for the bus

Roman's hair took a lot of product to get it to stand up. I wonder what Riley's hair will look like after we remove the twistie's...

Grandma Betty's 80th Birthday

2010-06-05T15:26:00.000-07:00

Grandma Betty turned 80 on May 21st and my mom along with her siblings threw her a wonderful party in the St. Ed's party room.

Here is Roman playing the piano...he is inspired by the 12 year old boy, Greyson Chance, the youtube sensation, singing Paparazzi. Dream big buddy!

Grandma and her sister, Margaret

twins...Riley and Todd

me and Roman

Sean and Alexa

food's on

Grandma

Cake

They boys...Logan, Roman, and Garrett

Alexa and Emerson (Emme)

Sean, our MC

I think we had over 100 guest

The kids singing, "We're going to win Twins." Grandma LOVES the MN Twins!

Kyle wrote a funny song for grandma, he had everyone laughing.

Riley and Will

Roman trying to be funny... Riley did NOT find the humor in it.

Mom and Todd

Grandma with her kids...minus Mark and Kathy. Mark was unable to make the trip from CT and Kathy passed away almost 2 years ago. We were thinking we could maybe photo shop Mark in for Gram's Christmas cards this year.

Pictured: Anne, Marie (mom), Larry, Grandma and Betty-Jo

Grandma with her sisters, Shonny, Margaret and Theresa

Grandma with SOME of her grandchildren

Sean, Jessica, Jesse, Anthony, Josh, Jeff, Kyle, Bobby, Dustin and me :)

Not in the picture were, Ryan, Michele, James, and Gregory

The Great Grandchildren

In this picture: Roman, Garrett, Will, Emme, Jack, Nikolas, Riley, Logan, Bella, and Phillip

Not pictured: Tommy and Ethan

It was a nice party for Grandma. I think she really enjoyed her birthday!

Quick Chicago Visit

2010-06-05T14:53:00.000-07:00

On our way back from Florida we stopped in Chicago for a day of fun with the Chicago Kell's. We took the kids to The Children's Museum at the Navy Pier.

Here is Mike and Riley

Riley and Roman got Frannie to crawl on the ground to practice the safety of getting out of a house if there was a fire....

Roman and Fran

Our monkey, Roman, climbing around

Roman taking claim of an already built play house as his own design and Riley and Mike starting to create something of their own.

Hmm....looking good

At Navy Pier...doesn't Mike look happy??? Makes me laugh :)

Riley in the everything water exhibit...hmm, should she really be wearing that hood? Who was wearing it last???

Our little canoe girl

I think this was every one's favorite room! So cool!

love it!

Is someone hiding behind that large sign????

We had a nice break from our road trip with our Chicago family. Spent the day in the city and was able to see everyone except my uncle Jim...maybe next visit. Thanks for always letting us come and visit. The kids LOVE Chicago!

Our Florida Trip!

2010-06-05T09:59:00.000-07:00

This spring break we decided to take a road trip...to Florida. It was a great trip. The kids were unbelievable in the van and so was Todd...haha.

This picture is of us STUCK in major traffic just outside of Tennessee. That was the only road block of the whole trip...the rest was smooth sailing.

Todd unpacking the van at our resort

Our condo with a GREAT view of the Gulf

Living room

Dining Room

Our view from our room

The sound from the ocean was heaven

Roman taking a dip in one of the resorts pools

Riley in front of the pool

They had soo much fun jumping in

Cannon Ball

...and then a belly flop

Heading out to take a walk along Santa Rosa Bay to check out the sunset

Todd with the kids

Guys fishing behind Romo...they had quite to load of fish

Easter Morning we headed down to the beach to have our picture's taken with the Easter Bunny. Kids loved it...well, Riley did. Roman was a little unsure of the bunny.

Kinda weird to see the Easter bunny roaming around at the pool.

More swimming fun!

We missed the Easter egg hunt in the morning so we made one in the condo for kids..the picture above is Riley and Roman looking for their chocolate.

A day at the beach...

The resort we were staying at.

It was my birthday today so we decided to take a few picture's on our balcony.

One of my favorite picture's!

Which child looks the most like me??? haha

Todd and me...wish he was looking at the camera.

The kids and Todd made dinner for my birthday...We had Shish-Kabobs...Yum Yum!

Here is our family before dinner.

Another day at the beach....

Spring Break 2010

Kids taking an EXTREME bubble bath in the tub

Roman, my sweet boy

On our last night before heading back in the van to road trip our way back home, we heading into town for dinner and to take a walk on the boardwalk

Kids and I inside the shell

The sun coming up the morning we were leaving. View from our room

Good bye Pensacola Beach

Hard to say goodbye...

The bridge to take us out of Pensacola Beach and into Pensacola, we hope to be back again!

Roman enjoying a movie in the car

...and Riley playing her DS

It was such a great vacation with Todd and the kids. We all really relaxed and enjoyed our time together. The kids are still talking about it and I hope they continue to remember the time their parents had a crazy idea to DRIVE to Florida! I am truly blessed to be part of this amazing family!

Riley's 1st Communion

2010-03-21T13:12:00.001-07:00

It was a big weekend! Riley celebrated her 1st Communion. Saturday morning Riley and I headed to church to a 2 hour class on 1st communion. It was a great class for Riley and me. I had forgotten a lot. It was a nice refresher course behind the meaning of Communion.

Then we met back at church for the Seder meal. Here are some of Riley's friends, Lainey and Hannah. Sunday Morning with Nana
Riley's with Ella and Avae

Riley holding her 1st Communion cup that she made

Riley's Godparents, Sara and Jon

Riley and me (do we look about the same height???)

Can you tell we are mother and daughter? After I came home and developed the picture's, I realized we should have had Roman in this picture. Do you know how long it has been since we have had a family photo? Maybe at Roman's 1st Communion...ha!

Riley with her friends again. I love that they are so close and all 3 go to different elementary schools in Bloomington. So fun to have church friends and school friends :)

Riley was getting tired of all the pictures...can you tell? They all had such cute dresses on.

After Riley's 1st communion we headed to Oak City for Brunch. We had our own private little area for Riley, it was really nice. Here she is with Nana and Papa.

Riley's one and only Papa! Her favorite! :)

It was a great weekend celebrating Riley. We are so proud of you! Thank you to Sara and Jon for driving out for her special day, it means a lot to us and thank you to my parents for always making our kids special. We love you!

The end of the season party

2010-03-13T18:19:00.000-08:00

The 1st year rookies season ends @ Pump it UP!!!I made the hockey stick cupcake and puck for the big party.
Kennedy Rookies Rock!

Our Team!

Riley flying down the slide

The parents chatting while the kids JUMPED

Roman with his buddy, Rylan

Roman with his some of his teammates

Who's ready for Pizza???

Charlie, Roman, and Zander

Rylan, Sam, and Robby

Ryan, Parker, Riley and Hannah

Aidan and Ryan

The kids had a blast jumping and hanging out with their teammates. Thanks to all the coaches!The kids had a fun season and they learned a lot for 1st year skaters. Can't wait for the next year!

Bloomington Hockey Jamboree

2010-03-13T17:38:00.001-08:00

We spent the weekend at the hockey rink... and it as FUN!

Roman's hockey team along with the rest of the mite teams in Bloomington hosted the tournament at BIG. It was hockey weekend!

Roman is in the gold helmet #27

Getting tips from Coach Dave

Love this picture...Paul holding Roman up so he can listen to his coach. So little :)

During the tournament for the rookies, they split the ice, so our guys had to use the penalty box as their bench for the game...funny how they all fit in there fine.

Between 2nd and 3rd period Riley and her buddy Jake collected the pucks on the ice after the "Chuck a Puck" game.

He Shoots, He SCORES!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Roman scored his 1st goal and only of the season! My mom and I were screaming and jumping up and down, it was like he won an Olympic metal. I Love being a mom to a Rookie Mite! So fun to watch. His 'strut' after he scored was fun to watch too!

Great season Rookies!

Waiting for their trophies...

Roman, the Rocket, Hauch (as dad calls him)

Riley and Roman with their cool hats

Roman, Riley, Nana and Papa. We had so much fun watching you this year.

Roman with his favorite coach, his dad!

Way to go buddy! I am so proud of you!

The Drum...

2010-03-13T17:26:00.001-08:00

Riley was the mother in her 2nd grade play, "The Drum". It was a great story about helping others. She did a great job! Way to go Riley! Riley (the mother) with Danielle (Jordan, her daughter...the LEAD in the play)
With old man, who kept saying "whipper snapper." Hilarious!

Riley is shy, so this just blew Todd and I away. She was GREAT!

Mr. Peterson, the music teacher, Rocks. He did such a great job with all of the kids. "The Drum" had a wonderful message about sharing.

Todd and Roman congratulating our new "STAR"!

Riley with her biggest fan, me :)

Roman at his H-O-C-K-E-Y practice

2010-02-01T16:44:00.000-08:00

I haven't brought my camera lately to Romans hockey, so I thought Saturday was a great day to take some action shots...Here is the little man.Coach dad working with Roman on skating backwards
Time to go over drills

Go Roman Go!

Same size buddies

Roman takes the puck...good job buddy

This is not Roman...thought it was, but it's his classmate, Parker.

Oh, there he is.

Practice ended BAD! They were doing some sort of drill and I guess Roman wasn't paying attention and so his coach (thankfully not Todd) started yelling at Roman for not listening and said since you seem to know everything why don't you go first...well Roman didn't know what to do so the coach told Roman to go to the bench...."GO TO THE BENCH!" So I was standing above the bench and watched my little 6 year old skate to the bench and as I watched him skate I could see his lip shivering, knowing he was crying...I lost it, cried right along with him. I know kids should be listening and all, but come on! This is 1st year skaters, these little ones are just learning to skate and socialize (which is what Roman I think was doing when he got in trouble) this is not the Olympics. I think it was a little excessive. Who am I kidding...It was REALLY excessive. Thankfully Roman was unfazed by the whole thing by the time he came out of the locker room. I on the other hand have decided I have a hard enough time being a hockey mom, let's just hope he has no desire to be a goalie...That might kill me. :)

PomPom Recital

2010-02-01T16:29:00.001-08:00

Riley had her 1st dance recital this weekend at Jefferson high school. The girls did a great job! We had a dress rehearsal on Friday night and then 2 shows on Saturday, one @ 1pm and one @ 6:30pm. Saturday was a LONG day. Riley's group was # 8 in the program and I think there were 30 different dances...so it was a long time before the finale. Riley said her favorite part of the whole show was the finale where she got to bow. So cute! Look at little miss boss...Looks like she is telling her friend what to do next. Oh Lord.

It was a Christmas show (odd, since it is now Feb.) So her group danced to "Jingle Bell Rock". I think they should change the show to a Valentine program...over the Christmas tunes by now.

Riley did a great job! It was so fun to watch her. She said she would like to stay in dance for at least 2 more years to get a trophy...

I loved their costumes, they copied the GAP commercial where the little girls were dancing in stripes and bright colors.

Next up...the Spring recital!

Pillow Talk

2010-01-28T15:01:00.001-08:00

We had "Art Thursday" today when Riley got home and since we had a few pillowcases left over from the Pj party the kids colored ones for themselves. Riley was too busy at her party to color hers. Here is Roman's. I love it! It is a picture of Scooby and Shaggy warming up by a campfire. He spent a hour on his pillow. So much detail! Here is Riley's...I have to admit something. She was so bored with the project, I finished it for her. I know, I am bad. She drew a few puppies on hers and was done...So, I colored the puppies in for her and then added a few other things. :)

Roman's 1st Hockey game

2010-01-28T14:44:00.000-08:00

Roman had his 1st scrimmage against a Jefferson Mite team. We talked before the game about how no one was keeping score, it was just for fun to get them used to playing games...Um, the other team had a different talk...They scored and they scored and they scored and they scored and all of us parents lost track after awhile. Our little guys scored one goal and we banged on the glass and cheered as loud as we could...It was like we had just won the Stanley cup! So, at the end of the game we were all happy with our ONE goal and congratulated our players. They will play again this coming Sunday against another Jefferson Mite team...maybe I'll head into their locker room and give them a little talk before they skate :) haha. Kidding.

Here is a banner someone made for our team.

So cute!

Here is Roman's picture on the bannerThat is Roman in the back by the goal...He was playing defense.
My camera wasn't working the greatest for these pictures...so I only got a few shots. I'll take more next week.

Cupcakes for the big pj party!

2010-01-24T16:07:00.001-08:00

The beginning of our really cute cupcakesStarting to finish faces and blankets
All done...How cute Cupcake Riley on top
Little Riley with braces :)
We are ready for the Pj Party!

Riley's Pj PARTY!

2010-01-24T15:07:00.000-08:00

We had a fun night at our house...13 girls screaming and running around. By then end of it, we were exhausted (Todd and me). The girls got their nails done by our nail "artist", Anna. Thanks Anna! You were a HUGE help!Riley's good friends from church, Lainey and Hannah (waiting in line for their nails)
Riley's classmates, Darya and Isabella (in matching pj's) decorating pillows

Riley's classmate Sarah's turn to get her nails done

Izzy and Tasha working on their pillows Pizza P-A-R-T-Y

Riley and her classmate, Danielle

Gift time!

Riley and her good friend from church, Valerie

Riley and Isabella

Riley and goofy Darya

Riley with Kierra

Riley and Sarah ( With V in the background)

Riley and Tasha

Riley and Lainey

Riley and Hannah

Riley and Angie

Riley with Katie

Riley and Izzy

Popcorn for the movie, "Hannah Montana"
All the girls with their cupcakes...Such a cute picture of all of them!

Isabella and Darya showing off their cupcakes

Tasha

"Hannah Montana Movie"

Enjoying the movie and cupcakes

They look like they are all sweet and quiet little girls...These girls were anything but quiet! We had fun and I think all of the girls had a blast too, and that's the most important. I know Riley thought it was the best party ever :)

Welcome 2010...We are happy you are here!

2010-01-01T11:42:00.001-08:00

New Years Eve we spent at the Carlson's...which we have been doing for the last few years. The kids run around crazy with all their friends and the adults get to have fun as well. Here is Riley on her way upstairs to attack one of her buddies. Todd doesn't allow any type of toy weapons in our house (since he was an army guy once) and I think it is funny whenever we head to friends houses, our kids run for the 1st toy weapon they can find...Looks like Riley found the biggest one this year! Roman and his new best friend...his DS. All the other kids were playing hide and seek upstairs and I find this little dude in the play room alone hanging with his DS... Thankfully that didn't last long...he was out searching for his buddies soon after.
Happy New Year! Here are the kids at midnight! They look pretty lively still.

Our kids enjoying a little midnight snack...ice cream!

Riley and her buddy, Lauren.

Harper, aren't you supposed to be in bed???

All the kids anxiously waiting to play Lego's Rock Band on the Wii

That's us! :)Roman's ice cream kicking in...who's in charge of these kids???

Little Mario showed up to entertain us all.

Happy New Year to all family and friends! Hope 2010 brings you much joy!

Snowy Christmas!

2010-01-01T11:26:00.001-08:00

Christmas morning we woke up @ 4:45am to the CO detector going off... a log in the fireplace decided to ignite during the night and try to smoke us out...maybe Santa coming down the chimney sparked the log... So, needless to say since we were all up, the kids were anxious to see what Santa had left them. Thank you CO detector for making this a happy Christmas instead of a sad one!

Once the rest of the neighborhood awoke, we headed outdoors to tryout our new sleds Santa had left us...and why not? It was snowing like crazy out there.

Christmas Eve

2009-12-25T09:11:00.001-08:00

On Christmas Eve before we head to church and over to Nana and Papa's, we always open our gifts from each other. It's nice to spend some quiet time together before the holiday gets a little nuts.

Riley got a Barbie with a dog named "Tanner" that poops...yep you got it right...poops. Roman and Riley thought that was the coolest thing ever. Poop, who knew?So excited about the pooping dog and magnetic pooper scooper
Roman got a Kennedy hockey sweatshirt and pants with his name on it. Very cool!

Roman also got the Leap Frog 'Tag' pen with books. He is excited to read on his own.

The kids got Todd a Scooby Doo T-shirt. Roman wanted one to match.

The kids got me a the book, "The Blind Side"...excited for my new read!

After church we headed to Nana and Papa's house and had Lasagna...yummy! Now it was time for presents again...Papa had bought all the kids Santa hats....3 that say 'nice' and 1 that says 'naughty'. Who do you think got the naughty hat and was really excited about it?...YES, Roman! Easy guess. Here is Roman looking at his new hockey calendar he got from Jeff and Lisa. Lisa's dad in the background and Lisa next to Roman.

I made Nana the annual "calendar" for her office. I think it is her favorite...how could it not be??? Her grandchildren are all over it.

The boys getting goofy, Logan, Garrett and Roman ( in their new pj's from Nana and Papa)
Sporting their new pj's (except for Logan...he needs a different size)

Riley, Logan, Garrett, and Roman

Do you think they get along???

Both Riley and Roman REALLY wanted a Nintendo DS for Christmas...did they get them???

Yes, they each got a DS and they were so excited! The look on their faces was priceless. It was a gift from Nana, Papa and us. Riley said it was the best gift ever.

Setting out cookies for Santa. Does the note to Santa look a little overloaded???

Ready for bed. Hope Santa brings us some goodies.

Three We Kings

2009-12-25T09:00:00.001-08:00

Every year our church puts on a Christmas program and this year the program was called "Three We Kings". Here is Riley's group singing, (she is in the top row with a green bow in her hair). Todd was in charge of the spotlight, (do you think the kids will go blind?...can you say BRIGHT?) Riley was a shining STAR!Roman was a lion (looks a little like a sunflower...but he was a lion) he is in the center sandwiched between two girls...I'm sure for a reason :)
Our friends Aimee and Ryan's daughter, Jayda, and our friends, Anna and Ryan's daughter, Valerie, doing a solo...they did a great job.Star and Lion after their performance...Well done!

Riley turns 8!

2009-12-25T08:49:00.000-08:00

Riley turned 8 on December 14th. Here is her sweatshirt I made for the big day.Showing off some of her presents from us...sleepover kit for her American girl doll and Pj's for her doll. She wants to have a Pj birthday party sometime in January and now her doll is set up to join the party too.

I went and met Riley for lunch at school and brought her Subway and then after lunch we went back to her class to pass out her treats....frosted sugar cookie! Yum Yum
The birthday night ended with a little kung foo action. They dressed themselves up...no clue.

Happy birthday Miss Riley! We love you!

Dance Riley Dance

2009-12-11T19:45:00.000-08:00

Riley's danced at a Jefferson Basketball game during half-time...so cute and fun! She was having a blast!

The girls had a lot of fans tonight. They did a great job!

Riley and Valerie
Roman ran out to the middle of the court during half-time after the girls danced and did his own dance in front of the whole crowd...Such the entertainer! Where does he get that from???

Nana came to watch

Our neighbor, Katie, was there to cheer Riley on

Riley did such a good job! We are so proud of her! :)

Trick or Treat!

2009-11-01T18:54:00.001-08:00

Halloween time! Our little (good) witchSitting with the pumpkins the kids designed :)
Paul getting ready to head out

The neighborhood kids

Witchy and Paul

Our wacky neighborhood parents

Paul Bunyan blowing his mama a kiss before heading out to trick or treat

Miss Witchy ready to trick

Happy Halloween !

Roman turned 6!

2009-11-01T18:45:00.000-08:00

Roman turned 6 on Tuesday October 27th. Here he is opening his gift from Todd and me...what is it????

It's an ipod with all of his favorite music on it :)
Poor thing was sick on his birthday, so he couldn't go to school. So, we also got him some comfy pants and a sweatshirt to lounge around in. Happy Birthday Buddy! We love you!

Halloween School Parties

2009-10-30T14:43:00.000-07:00

Paul Bunyan (the only time he would wear the beard)

Decorating cookies

Roman with his group

Roman's class (minus 2 that were sick)

Time for party #2

The 2nd graders were not allowed to wear costumes, so my way of getting around the RULES, I had Riley wear a dress with a pumpkin face...hey, it's a dress :)

Close up! Don't we look alike? (I swear she is mine!)

Miley Cyrus hits Minneapolis!

2009-10-29T20:58:00.000-07:00

Riley and her friend Lainey waiting for the Miley concert to start Miss Riley

Here comes Miley!

Riley and me getting ready to "Party in the U.S.A."

Breakout!

Flying out into the crowd singing, "Fly on the Wall"

She flew out into the crowd on a Harley singing, " I Love Rock-n-Roll"

Party in the U. S. A.

It was a great night out with Riley! I am so glad we went and I am so glad we had a suite! I am just afraid the girls gonna think this is the only way to see a show.

Roman's Birthday Party!

2009-10-25T20:50:00.000-07:00

Starting the hockey stick cake...hmm...In ActionThe Stick is done :)The Hockey puck was the easy partWhy not make mittens too (nuts!)
The party-goers goody bags (mittens)
Birthday Boy!

Roman skating with Fish and dadAvae getting ready to get out there and skateThe group out skating plus someJake and Roman taking a restElla getting the hang of itPlay hard...fall hardAvae going down...she was doing great!Nana and Riley skating away and Anna with her kids Valerie and MarvinRomanRiley is catching up to Nana in height...watch outElla taking a much deserved restGarrett and Lisa skating aroundBenjamin and Parker out to skate the iceAll ready for CAKE!Livy and Roman enjoying a juice boxGift timeSo nice to have such great friends!Wild Jersey from Nana and PapaRoman and ParkerParker and BenjaminAll the kids showing off their mittens (made in Kennedy colors of course)His classmate, BenjaminHis good friend, EllaOne of his oldest friends, Jake

His sister, Riley

His good friend, Valerie

His youngest cousin, Logan

His best friend and cousin, Garrett

His classmate and Hockey buddy, Parker

His little buddy, Marvin

His classmate, Ryan

His good friend, Avae

His oldest friend, Livy! They have known each other since birth. They are 11 days apart in age.

With Mom and Dad...We love you!With his Nana :)

Roman's 1st Hockey Clinic

2009-09-22T18:20:00.000-07:00

Roman heading out to the ice...

All sweaty after a hour on the ice. Good job buddy!

Roman's 1st day of Kindergarten!

2009-09-09T14:26:00.000-07:00

Riley, Roman, and our NEW TEACHER in the house...DAD!

Roman and Riley getting ready for the bus...so cute!

My kids! I Love them :)

Jack asking Roman if he wants to sit with him on the bus...Neighborhood kids looking out for eachother

Roman and his new classmate and buddy, Parker

I was suprised at how well I did. I waited to let the tears fall until I got in my car to head to work. Why do they have to grow up so fast? Roman did great today, just like his sister...so excited for school.

Riley's 1st day of 2nd Grade

2009-09-08T19:18:00.000-07:00

Riley starting 2nd grade today...Tomorrow Romo will begin Kindergarten

Labor Day Weekend

2009-09-08T19:03:00.000-07:00

Cabin time with the Chicago Kell's

Riley and Sarah on the Paddle boat...Riley with her head in a book

Roman acting crazy as usual

Goof Ball

Kids bringing down "Welcome Home" signs to Guy...(he just had heart surgery)

Roman and Garrett with their signs

Garrett, Riley, and Roman Tubing

The kids having a great time

It was such a great day!

The new "Big Mabel" it was like a couch on the water

Sean and Sarah acting goofy

The soon to be Mr. and Mrs. The wedding is less than 8 weeks away!

Sherrie and Mike

The winning teams!

Todd and Troy in "Badmiton" and Mike and Sarah in "Slap nuts"

State Fair Fun!

2009-09-08T18:36:00.000-07:00

Good Times at the Fair!

Camping with the Burfeinds

2009-08-23T13:30:00.000-07:00

We went camping this weekend with our good friends, the Burfeinds. We were at the Chain of Lakes Campgrounds in Lino Lakes, MN. I was worried with the week we had, that the weekend was going to be a wash-out...thankfully, the rain left mid-morning on Friday and the Sun came out and stayed with us all weekend. Here is our camp-site: E48. This was a great spot,

we had a lot of shade and were surrounded by trees. Roman hitting the Porta-Potty...thankfully our kids have NO issues with using a Satellite

Riley in front of the tent...Dad was still working on getting it up

Roman and I pretending we were helping daddy...I have no clue when it comes to tents

Our Campsite...Isn't it beautiful??

I knew it would get pretty cold at night, so I went out and got the kids and me "Suggies" (the blankets with sleeves...you know you have thought about buying them).

Here they are modeling for me.

Here is the Birthday Girl, Avae! The Burfeind's finally made it to camp a little after 8pm on Friday, minus Sara and Hans. Poor Sara came down with Strep Throat, so she was at home in bed, while Hans was having a sleepover at his grandma and grandpa's.

(Avae turned 5 today 8/21)

The kids in the Burfeind camper. Roman, Ella, Riley and Avae.

Avae in the morning with her new hair-ties we had gotten her. So cute!

The kids playing Simon Says before breakfast...Ella was Simon at the time.

Ella giving Roman a spin at the park

The Dad's pushing the crazy cats on the swings...look at Ella's hair...funny

This spinning thing was their most favorite thing at the park

Sara was feeling better and was no longer contagious, so her and Hans met us at the

the Centerville Lake. Here are the girls, Avae, Riley and Ella.Dad and Roman in the Lake

Roman looks like he is playing in the mud, but it is the sand.

Jon and Avae taking a break before dinner

Hans, Riley, Avae, Ella, and Roman hanging out at the "Stage".

The Kids taking a leap...

One of the toads the girls found. They wanted to take their toads back to our camp and Sara and I convinced them that the toads mommy would be sad to notice they were missing...So the toads had to stay where they were. Thank goodness...they get VERY LOUD at night. WOW!That behind them is a handmade Pinata made by Sara's mom and dad for the kids. Very clever I thought! This is a great picture of the kids!

Sara and Hans saying "Banana". Sara was trying to get the kids to yell out things on a hot dog, but Hans says Banana really well...so he was assigned that word.

Us in front of our tent...borrowed from our very nice neighbors, the Gefroh's.

Okay,we have another picture of all of us, but this one cracks Sara and I up. I look like I am dressed up like a tree. I am wearing my "Snuggie". I had set up the camera on the picnic table and when I was running to get in the picture, I realized I was still wearing the "Snuggie" and almost tripped on it...so this is it. Yes, I look like a tree.

The Burfeinds right before Sara and Hans headed home for the night. Sara thought staying overnight might have been pushing it since she was just on her meds for Strep for a little over 24 hours.

Time to roast Marshmallows

Our great campfire

The kids playing cards by the fire.

We had a great time. Can not wait for our next camping adventure! Hopefully Sara can stay for the whole weekend :)

Fran's Wedding Shower!

2009-08-16T08:54:00.001-07:00

Fran's Kitchen Shower! Her 1st shower before her big wedding day in November. Since it was a Kitchen Shower, my mom made aprons for everyone to wear...and I gave everyone a dress code! Ha! We all wore white tops with black bottoms and Fran wore whatever she wanted. I was a little sneaky...She asked what she should wear and she had 3 options...so I suggested the RED top so she would stand out. The red top was perfect!

Brenda and Clarita

Our wild and crazy two...Clare and Emily

Sarah, Grace, and Fran

Riley and Sarah, our two redheads in the family

Lisa ran the games...she did a great job!

Riley playing with the bubble wrap...I think all the gift opening was to much for her.

My Garage Sale purchase...Who would not want 12 days of Christmas Stemware??? I am afraid I will see this again.

A piece of Gram's quilts...a gift from my mom.

Fran, Jan, and Clare with our yummy dessert...Thanks girls!

Fran and Teresa holding the cookbook. All of us sent Teresa our favorite recipe's and she made this wonderful book. Amazing!

All of us girls in our aprons

All the girl cousins plus 2 girlfriends who will be part of our family soon...right Ben? right Phil?

and...we are standing according to age, oldest to youngest. Nice!

Fran and my aunt (her mom) Susie

Sisters...Sarah and Fran

My mom and Fran

Me and Fran

I was glad we had the shower at my house. Fran, you are not just family, you are one of my dear friends. Congrats on your upcoming wedding. We love you!

Happy Day to Todd & Congrats to Ms. Riley!

2009-08-11T19:13:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to my Husband, Todd!

We had a great night.

My parents brought over dinner so we wouldn't have to leave Otto (our house guest) home alone and I made some yummy dessert. Todd opened a few gifts and Riley learned how to ride her BIKE!

WAY TO GO RILEY!

The birthday boy

Riley on her Ride...look at her GO....
She was soooo proud of herself. Roman has been riding his bike since he was 4 and our cautious Riley waiting until she had it perfected until she jumped on and rode...no stopping her now!

Dad and kids

(Riley is wearing my bike helmet I wore when I rode my bike to

Chicago in '97 for the AIDS ride)

Roman took this picture...nice huh?

I was just about to blink...I look like I was tipsy...no, not the case.

I had to post these...My new chairs. I LOVE them!

Our House Guest, OTTO...

2009-08-10T19:45:00.000-07:00

We are dog sitting this week...This is Otto, the Great Dane. He is a sweet dog.The kids LOVE him! Roman used to be afraid of any dog...not anymore.

look at his face...

I felt guilty making him sleep in his Kennel since

he would have to hang out in his kennel all day while

we were at work, so we let him sleep with Riley. She loved it! He took up most of her bed.

Riley put her duvet between them so he knew what side was his...

we said, "Good luck with that."

He is a 140lb puppy! He's just over 1 year old. His owners are away till Saturday and I might have a hard time giving him back once they come to get him...he might be hard to hide :)