Daphne Rae

The End...

2009-09-25T22:51:00.002-05:00

This is a note from Shelley. Obvisouly with me joining Facebook, most of my updates and photos have been uploaded there and I have lost the desire to update this blog. I'm very sorry. But I have decided that's not fair. (to all three of my readers!) So I have decided to carry on with a family blog at the www.redredandmorered.blogspot.com blogsite (formerly Jude's blog).

Please continue to follow the family at www.redredandmorered.blogspot.com

Thank you for your loyalty of reading about my beautiful daughter. And continue to read about our family at www.redredandmorered.blogspot.com

Did I give the blog address yet? Haha!

Big girl at Gramma's

2009-08-17T20:49:00.003-05:00

Guess what? I just spent a whole week up at Gramma's! By myself!! Gramma and I had so much fun! We went to the Iowa State Fair, the wading pool, had a picnic with Grandpa, and I got to see lots of family! Aunt Leah came down with William and I loved playing with them. I haven't finished telling my mom all the stories yet, but there is so much more! I'll have to ask Gramma if she took any photos...

Thank you Gramma! I had so much fun with you!

Uncle Eric's Visit!

2009-08-09T10:09:00.002-05:00

Last weekend, we had some visitors from Colorado!! My Uncle Eric came to visit! And he brought his girlfriend Courtney and her daughter Drissy! Drissy had never left the state of Colorado, so this was a fun trip for her! While visiting us in Missouri, she really wanted to ride a horse. My parents thought I might ride with Drissy, but I was too scared. Courtney picked me up so the horses wouldn't step on me. Check me out! I'm a cowgirl!!

And here's a group photo...Dad, Mom, me, Uncle Eric, Courtney, Drissy, Grammy, Jude and Gramps (who has turned into Pa Pa now - I sort of changed his name)

Drissy also loves playing the Wii, and being her shadow, I had to play too!

It was great to meet Drissy and Courtney! And yes, I'm still scared of Uncle Eric...

Jude's First Birthday

2009-08-09T10:01:00.004-05:00

Last week Jude turned the big "1" years old. I had to give him all the scoop of what's required from him now. But first we have to get him walking! We had a small party for him, and while we waited for our friends to arrive, Jude and I played in the backyard. (I stole Jude's hat)... Then after everyone showed up, I got a little shy and hung out with Mommy and observed for a few minutes.

Soon enough I was up and playing with all the kids! Here I'm playing with my friend Jackson! We're showing off our feet!

When the cake and ice cream were served, I stepped right up! I love my desserts! Oh and I kept telling everyone it was MY birthday!

Jude had a great party and it was fun to play with all my friends!!

Chopsticks

2009-08-09T09:56:00.003-05:00

No, I haven't learn to play Chopsticks, but I have learned HOW to use chopsticks! I went out to lunch with my mom and my cousins Brenda and Lisa the other day. We went to a place called "Noodles and Company" and they gave me chopsticks! I was so excited to use them! And yes, I am a show off.

My mom put the little "helpers" on the end, and surprisingly enough I was good at it!

Lake Trip - Ha Ha Tonka State Park

2009-07-28T13:30:00.004-05:00

Sorry for the lack luster July posts... My mom had a hysterectomy and spent a week in the hospital, then we spent a week down at the Lake and then last week we were just lazy at home! But here's some of our adventure at the lake!

On another day during our Lake Trip, we went to Ha Ha Tonka State Park. We only made it up to the castle, we need to go back to explore more! Look at me, I'm still perfecting my modeling poses!
I love my family!

I loved running around the castle ruins! I loved even more running and jumping off them into Dad's arms!

I love my mommy!!

Ha Ha Tonka State Park is so much fun! My leash was off and I ran free!! I can't wait to go back! How about tomorrow?

Lake Trip - Buffalo Creek

2009-07-28T13:23:00.003-05:00

Sorry for the lack luster July posts... My mom had a hysterectomy and spent a week in the hospital, then we spent a week down at the Lake and then last week we were just lazy at home! But here's some of our adventure at the lake!

It was sprinkling one day when we were down there, so we thought it might be a fun day to drive to Buffalo Creek and watch the craw-dads. Lucky for me, Grammy just bought me a Dora Umbrella!!
Gramps taught me how to throw rocks into the creek! Look at the splash of this one!

Lake Trip - Swimming

2009-07-28T13:11:00.002-05:00

Sorry for the lack luster July posts... My mom had a hysterectomy and spent a week in the hospital, then we spent a week down at the Lake and then last week we were just lazy at home! But here's some of our adventure at the lake!

Grammy thought I would enjoy a kiddie pool! She was right!!!! I played in it everyday and loved it!!!
But Dad took me swimming in the lake, too!

He was trying to teach me how to swim, but I had on one of those new funky swimsuits with a floatation device built in... Problem with it is that it made my buoyancy off a little...

Dad also taught me how to use the ladder on the dock to get out of the lake! I'm a big girl now!

Lake Trip!

2009-07-28T12:43:00.004-05:00

Sorry for the lack luster July posts... My mom has a hysterectomy and spent a week in the hospital, then we spent a week down at the lake and the last week we've been lazy at home! But here's some of our fun adventure at the lake!

First up....as soon as we got out of the car, I ran down to the water!

I loved playing with Grammy!

Please don't laugh....the cabin doesn't have a tub. So we had to improvise. Our bath tub was the ice cooler!!!

Dad showed me how to catch minnows and shad with the throw net! I love it was hiliarious!!

Happy July 4th!

2009-07-05T15:17:00.004-05:00

Happy July 4th to everyone!! And it was another wonderful Independence Day to add my ever growing list of holidays. Outside it was cold and raining, but we still did a few things outside. Aunt Kathy got up in my "house" and played with me!Last year, I loved throwing "snaps" so Dad bought me more this year. But last year I would throw them....this year I had other plans. Here's the steps: Have dad place one on the ground. Next step: Stomp one it with all my might!

Third step: Scream for joy when it snaps!!!

Conversations with Daphne

2009-06-27T17:11:00.004-05:00

This morning over a nice bowl of cereal, Daphne looked around the table and noticed a family member was missing. "Mommy, where Daddy?" she asked.

"Dad is out playing with the boys today on his dirt bike," Shelley said.

Daphne thought about this a few moments, then said, "Me boy?"

After Shelley stopped laughing, she said, "No, you are a girl."

Daphne smiled and went on eating her cereal. After several bites she tapped her mom's arm and asked, "Jude boy?"

"Yes, Jude is a boy." Shelley said with a smile on her face.

First Lake Trip of 2009

2009-06-27T16:41:00.006-05:00

A few weekends ago we made our first Lake trip of the summer, and hopefully more will come! After we got to the Lake, I wanted to explore it all - since the last time I had been here I was only about 8 months old and I didn't remember it. When we were out on the dock (where I always have to wear that stupid life vest!) There was a ladder. So I asked Mom where it went. So she told me to go up it... And it lead to a sunbathing platform on top of the dock!!! Cool!

And then Gramps showed me this purple hanging chair, I loved playing on it!

Before long, Aunt Kathy and Uncle John came over in their new boat. They took us out for a ride!

And when Uncle John wasn't looking, I took over driving!!

Not to be outdone, Gramps wants to take me out on his new boat, too! His is an older model, but it's still fun to have so many boats to go riding on! Faster!!

Gramps let me drive his boat for real! I was only pretending on Uncle John's boat...

After we got back to the cabin, it was time to put on our swimsuits to swim!!! I was hesitant at first, but soon I was waist deep splashing away!

After we got too cold, Jude and I cuddled in the hammock to warm up...

It was a nice weekend trip! I can't wait to go back!!

Shatto Farm

2009-06-21T20:09:00.005-05:00

Yesterday my family suffered through the heat to go to Shatto Milk Company's dairy farm! And we were lucky enough to run into some friends there! We had so much fun...well, everyone else did. I was a sour puss. You can't tell in any of these photos, I hid it well... I drove the milk truck, too! And by drive I mean I sat in the chair and held the steering wheel. This was when we first got there, so I was still in a good mood here.

By the time we ate and then got through the line to milk the cows I was hot as all get out... And then I was scared of the cows. Or something.... I didn't want to touch them at all!

But I did enjoy looking at all the baby cows with my friends Emmy and Mica...

After we looked at the cows, we looked at where they process the milk... Strange to think the milk I drink every morning comes from right here! (I'm in his photos, but Eljiah is blocking me completely....I think you can only see my hand holding my sippy cup...)

Playset!

2009-06-14T17:03:00.003-05:00

Our backyard suddenly looks a little different.... Here's the before shot... And here's the after shot!!!

I love it!!!!!!!! Thank so much Gramps and Daddy for putting it up!!!!!

Omaha Zoo Trip!

2009-06-14T16:11:00.008-05:00

Nothing says summer more than a trip up to Omaha Zoo! Don't get me wrong, I love the KC Zoo, I've been there twice. But it was fun to drive up to Omaha with my family where we met Grandma, Aunt Leah and William! I'm ready! After the several hour drive up, I was ready to play in the sun a little and check out all these animals that I've been practicing their names and the noises they make... Between the three kids, we rotated between two strollers and a wagon all day.

My mom has this little attraction to giraffes....and as I sat and watched them for a while, I think I know why she likes them!

Look! I found a giant turtle!! And it let me ride on it's shell! I asked him if he was the Sea Turtle in Nemo, but he wouldn't answer me...

After a long morning of walking outside and looking at those animals (plus eating lunch and backtracking half the zoo because Mom's glasses fell out of the stroller!! Thankfully we all prayed and by the grace of God we found them!!) it was time to head to the inside feature of the Zoo. First we hit up the Jungle! William and Aunt Leah played on the bridge...

Then I wanted to go on it. I told Dad it looked like the rope swing that Donkey and Shrek cross in the first movie to save the Princess!

Then we went into the Aquarium! I fell in LOVE with the penguins! I think I could have stayed there watching them all day long. There was this one that I think was flirting with me. He kept swimming back and forth in front of me! I loved it!!! I couldn't keep my eyes off him - he was so graceful in the water!

By zoo closing time, I was pooped. (Literally and physically) It was a great day though!!!

Thank you so much Grandma!!!

More teeth?

2009-06-11T05:45:00.001-05:00

I am shocked....I thought I had all my teeth! But sure enough, more are coming in! And I'm not liking it... I'm whining and got a fever. Who knew? I guess these are called molars and Mom said they will help me chew food better. We'll see. God, will you please make this more a teensy bit more bearable for me.... Thank you!

Bye Taylor...

2009-06-07T20:21:00.004-05:00

My cousin Taylor used to live down the street from me....but this week she moved to Saudi Arabia!!! Goodbye Taylor! I'll miss you!!! And thank you tons for all the hand-me-clothes you gave me just before you left!

My tree...

2009-06-07T20:18:00.004-05:00

As you may or may not know, I am growing up in the same house that my mom grew up in. She moved into this house when she was 8 years old, and there was a tiny tree in the back yard. Mom says it wasn't much bigger than the one in this photo. But if you have been to my house recently, you know that there is a HUGE tree in the backyard! The year I was born, Dad planted the tree in the photo above. Mom decided to take my photo with it, and then I can laugh at how small it is when I am a teenager and it's a huge tree...

"2" or Peace...you decide

2009-06-07T20:15:00.004-05:00

Whichever it may be: 2 or Peace - I can finally do it!! (that's a hard feat for someone as young as me with chubby little fingers!!!)

My pink bike

2009-06-07T20:08:00.003-05:00

When Gramps got into town last week, he was hiding something behind his back... I knew it was a toy for me....so I had to chase him down! And sure enough....my own pink bike!!!!!!I'm ready to roll!! Too bad the little 6v battery doesn't keep up it's speed very long! Thank you Gramps!!! He always finds the best garage sale deals!!!

Playing with Hannah

2009-06-07T20:05:00.003-05:00

My mom's high school friend Haley came over the other day and brought her daughter Hannah over, too! Hannah is about 6-8 weeks younger than Jude, so I had a hay day playing with her!! If she didn't live in Colorado, I'd love to play with her all the time!

Congrats Sarah!!!

2009-05-21T21:12:00.004-05:00

Congrats Sarah and JP! This past weekend they got married!! (and now off to Greece for a honeymoon, must be rough!) It was an adult only wedding, so Jude and I stayed home with our cousin Lisa! We had a blast hanging out, eating Easy Mac and watching Noggin! And while we did that, my parents had a wonderful time with some of their college friends! Awwwww, don't my parents look cute? I think so! Anyway, my parents were friends with the bride, Miss Sarah, in college. You see, there were seven girls who lived on 4th Cooper for two years together, then they lived together off campus too! And Miss Sarah got married this weekend! Everyone but Miss Jillian was able to make it. Let me introduce you to all the beautiful women of 4th Cooper!

Miss Nicole is first, she now lives in California - so Mom doesn't get to see her very often. Then there's Miss Jody! She lives down in Southern Missouri and she has a dog just like Turk! Then of course the gal in white is Miss Sarah, the beautiful bride! Then my mom!!! Then there's Miss Tabitha, she has a daughter only a month or so younger than me and I want to play with her! And last but not least is Miss Megan! She lives up in Iowa, not too far from Grandma! Maybe the next time all these gals (plus Miss Jillian) get together, I can come too and play with all their daughters. Jude might be a little overwhelmed, not a single one of them have a son!

Uh Oh Mommy!

2009-05-21T21:09:00.003-05:00

Granted I am only two AND the most clumsy person on the face of the planet, so it's not uncommon for my legs and arms to be covered in a nice mixture of cuts, scrapes, bruises and rug burns. But my mom is a big girl, so she's shouldn't have ouchies. But today, she has TWO ouchies! For about a year, she's been struggling with in-grown toenails on both of her big toes. So she finally broke down and went to the doctor....who did a minor procedure. Ouch Mom!!

I heart Jude!

2009-05-21T21:04:00.003-05:00

I simply adore my little brother! Have I ever told you that? Well, I do. He is my best friend in the whole wide world! Where ever he goes, I follow him to make sure he stays safe (and doesn't play with my toys). And I love to give him lots of hugs and kisses! I even try to pick him up! And let me tell you, that's a feat considering I only weigh about five pounds more than him!

Aren't we cute together?! I heart Jude!

Conversation with Daphne...

2009-05-16T09:33:00.004-05:00

(This is Shelley, Daphne's mom. I am going to occasionally hijack Daphne's blog to post "Conversations with Daphne...")

"Mom! Toy!" Daphne says as she carries one of her old toys, now Jude's toy, from the living room to dining room. "Did you take that toy from Jude?" I ask her. Daphne thinks for a moment and says, "No. Me toy." We both hear a noise, a very familiar grunting noise that Jude makes as he crawls. Daphne looks over and sees him crawling toward us. "Oh no!" she screams and take off running, still clutching the toy.

This next conversation overheard between Daphne and her dad. Ian turned on the TV and the DVD player. Daphne got very excited and said, "Tek!!!" (that means Shrek, by far her favorite movie). Ian said, "No, it's not Shrek." Daphne then let out hugh sigh and said, "Lot?" (that means Lost, a TV show on DVD that Ian has been watching recently to catch up.)

Happy Mother's Day!

2009-05-12T19:37:00.003-05:00

Happy Mother's Day (late) to all the mothers out there! I tried to do something nice for my Mom on Sunday, but ironically she tried to hurt me twice! Granted, I'll admit both times were an accident though. Let me explain.

When my mom is cooking, I love to "het" (that means help in my mad speaking skills). I help by bringing my step ladder that says my name into the kitchen and stand next to Mom. On Sunday morning, she was making a large b'fast, including my favorite - PANCAKES! Gramps was in town, and he loves his pancakes really thin,really big, and with a lot of oil on the skillet so the edges get crispy. I was standing there next to Mom, and she flipped one of the large pancakes... Well, she didn't get the landing quite right....and pancake batter went flying for ten feet!! And part of it hit my neck!! YYYEEEEEOOOOOWWWCCCHHH!!! That was hot. But Mom felt really bad and washed it off of me immediately.

Then after it got dark, I begged Mom to paint my toenails and fingernails. She aggreed, because I think she wanted to paint hers as well. So she carried me into the bathroom, and stood me up on the vanity. Then she opened up the mirror and reached up to the top shelf to grab the tiny glass bottles. She was debating which color to use....when her chubby fingers bumbed one of the jars! Oh no!! The tiny bottle flew down to the tile countertop, bounced up to the backsplash, then bounced off my legs! And with each bounce - tiny shards of glass and red smelly liquid splashed everywhere!! Of course, Mom freaked out. Since I was barefoot, she told me not to move. There was glass and red blood-like liquid all over me, the wall and the vanity.... Dad came in and helped clean up. First they picked up all the little glass pieces, then they had to use this purple stuff dabbed on cotton balls to get the polish off me....and boy oh boy did that stuff stink! I kept saying, "boo boo" since it looked like blood. After they got me cleaned up, Mom spent almost 20 minutes trying to get it off the tile and the wall. Next time you come to my house, I think you'll still see some red in the grout! That is hard to remove! And the purple smelly stuff took the paint off the wall! So mom said she'll have to repaint that portion of the wall....

What a Mother's Day!

Big Girl Bed!

2009-05-10T19:19:00.003-05:00

About a month or so ago, my parents set up the big girl bed (aka a twin sized bed) in my old room. Then they moved the crib into the toy room. And Dad took down the toddler size bed and put it in the attic. So I finally don't have to share a room with Jude anymore! I love having my own room again! I don't have an official bed set yet, but Grammy made me a twin sized quilt that I'm using for my bedspread. Mom caught me taking a nap the other day... But her taking photos woke me up...so I looked out the window and watched Dad mowing the front yard.

I love my Big Girl Bed!!! It makes me feel older. Mom even decided I was ready for big girl books (with pages instead of board books). So we got them out of my closet and put them in the bookshelf. I love them!!

Like a Tweet on Twitter

2009-05-04T20:09:00.000-05:00

Mom said she'll never be cheap on toilet paper again!!!

Chadwick Camping day 2 part 2

2009-05-02T21:00:00.003-05:00

On our second day camping at Chadwick, Mom had to run a small errand in town. You see, you might know that she has done something horrible - she got Jude's name as a tattoo but not mine. So I bugged her and bugged her, so she finally made an appointment to get my name, too! So while the rest of camp was riding trails, Mom took Jude and me to play with Grammy and Gramps in town and she went to visit her buddy Scott. He's the best tattoo guy around! He did Jude's tatto, so Mom wanted to return to him for my name. What do you think?
And while she was in there, he retouched a few color places on Jude's tattoo. And then Mom asked him about her red tattoo on her foot that was supposed to be brown. And he said he could fix it for her, so BAM! Mom walked out of the tattoo place with three fresh tattoos! (well, one new and two retouched)

Chadwick Camping day 2

2009-05-02T20:43:00.008-05:00

Day 2 of camping, the weather was amazing!! God couldn't have given us a better weekend to go camping. It was nice, but not too hot. And it was cold enough at night that the campfire felt great, and the s'mores tasted great! Day 2 of camping was fun, too, because Mom took us kids into town to meet up with Grammy and Gramps! But there's another post on that... None of us slept very good, partly because we were sleeping in a tent in a campground full of people with ATV's and dirtbikes...so needless to say it was rather noisy until very very very very late into the night. And I had never slept in a tent before. So when the sun woke up, I woke up, too. Here's my morning face....

After everyone ate b'fast, the guys (and Robin) all suited up for a full day on the trails. Mike had a spare helmet, so of course Daddy helped me try it on!

And then I borrowed Eden's bike and pretended I was riding on the trails too!

Then Elijah and I climbed up on the ATV and pretended more. Wait, I'm backwards! Help!!

I think Eljiah is my new boyfriend. He invited me on a date inside his tent! (But first I had to take off my shoes so I didn't drag leaves into his tent...)It was a wonderful camping trip, and I can't wait to go back again! I don't have any posts about day 3, the day was cut short when someone *cough Ben cough* got hurt! If you know him, email him and ask for the video - it's on tape! He's got it uploaded on photobucket...

Chadwick Camping day 1

2009-05-02T20:34:00.006-05:00

If you know my family, then you know my dad bought a dirt bike last year and has gone down to a town called Chadwick to ride several times. Chadwick is a small town down in the southern part of the state, and there you can find the Mark Twain National Forest! And on Cobb Ridge, they have a campground designed for people with ATV's and dirtbikes - where the trailheads are straight off the campground. Dad thought it would be fun if our whole family went on the camping trip! At first Mom was weary because of Jude and making bottles, but her desire to camp won out. So off our whole family went!

Luckily, we weren't the only family who went! A whole slew was camping with us including our friends Ben, Shawn, Misty, Elijah, Eden, Matt, Mike, Robin, Nick, Bree and Steve! Count em up, that's eight PCHS alum (including my mom). When we got to the camp site, Eden and I sat back while the tents were being set up and bike unloaded...
I like this photo, it's like "Where's Waldo?" But instead it's "Where's Ophelia!"
We got to the campground just in time for dinner, but I wasn't too hungry, I just wanted to hang out with my friend Elijah. (You should ask me to say his name, I say it really funny!)

Yeah! Yeah!

2009-05-02T20:27:00.005-05:00

My dad has a dirt bike and I love to ride with him! Click the below thumbnail to watch a video of me riding! Make sure your sound is on so you can hear me yelling, "Yeah! Yeah!"

Ring Around

2009-05-02T20:21:00.005-05:00

I love "Ring Around"! That's all I call it, but the old farts always add "the Rosie" to the end of the title. Click on the thumb to watch a video. At the end, I said, "More, more?" for Mom to do it again. She said, "What?" and then I reply, "See?" because I knew mom just took a video and I wanted to see it. I'm a smart one like that.

Good lil helper

2009-05-02T20:18:00.005-05:00

I'm a great helper around the house, so Mom and Dad ask me to do a lot. Hmmm, doesn't that make me a little like Cinderella? Na, I don't have talking mouse friends. I love most tasks, including helping put away dishes. I know where almost everything goes without having to be shown! But warning, sometimes between the sink and the cupboard it may get a little messy again.

Happy Easter!

2009-05-02T20:05:00.004-05:00

This is my third Easter morning! I don't remember much about my first two Easters, but I bet they are documented somewhere on this blog. Since Dad had to work on Easter morning, Mom says she's too much of a ninny to try and get both me and my brother ready for church by herself so instead we held a mini church by ourselves here at home. After we thanked Jesus for dying on the cross for our sins and then raising from the dead, Mom gave Jude and I gifts! I was very happy with my new toothbrush!

"Yeah! Look, I got a fun orange colored egg! It says Reeses on it, that must mean it has chocolate!" I told Jude. Then while I wasn't paying attention, Jude saw his opportunity and snuck the orange Reeses egg out of my hand!
I didn't even realize it, until I looked down and saw my hand was empty...Wow he was a good pick-pocket! Don't worry, I showed him who was boss and I grabbed it right back!

Happy Palm Sunday!

2009-05-02T19:58:00.005-05:00

Palm Sunday was well over a month ago, but I'm just now getting around to posting about it. Now don't go off calling me lathargic or anything, I've just been very very very busy! But my Palm Sunday was wonderful. Let's see if I can remember it. My mom just had a surgery, so Grandma came into town to help take care of Jude and me. And since we wouldn't see her on Easter, she gave us some presents a week early! Like my bedhair?

Oh Grandma!! You gave me suckers!! I love suckers!!!!!

Then while my mom was resting and recovering, I played all day with Grandma and Biz!! I love when Grandma comes into town!

Practicing Driving

2009-05-02T19:54:00.002-05:00

I'm growing up so incredibly fast - that before you know it I'll be turning 16 years old and will be driving! So I need to start practicing. And what's better than two clothes hampers?

Updated ambigram...

2009-04-06T21:54:00.003-05:00

My mom designed my name in an ambigram and we got a lot of input about how it looked... So Mom made lots of little tweaks and here is the new version. What do you think? The "d" and "e" arm was shortened and angle lessened. The "a" and "n" were made smaller. And the "p" and "h" were off set. And background changed. Is this better?

"Opened" a whole new world!

2009-04-06T21:51:00.002-05:00

I have opened a whole new world! Tonight I opened a door all by myself. I've been able to wiggle the door knob for several months, but never got the twist and push motion down. Until this afternoon! I did it!! All by myself! Yeah!! And then I was so excited with myself, I would open the door, walk in the room, shut the door, open the door, walk out of the room, shut the door, open the door, walk in the room, shut the door, open the door, walk out of the room...well you get the picture. I did then for almost ten minutes straight!

Palm Sunday Story

2009-04-05T17:35:00.003-05:00

Since my mom is still recovering from surgery on Friday, we didn't go to church today. But over our scrumpulicious donuts for breakfast, Mom told me the story of Palm Sunday and how Jesus rode into town on a donkey (but she had to tell me it wasn't like Donkey in Shrek, Jesus's donkey didn't talk and sing and wasn't annoyingly funny). After she finished telling me about Palm Sunday, I looked at her and said "More" both verbally and in sign language! Mom thought that was hilarious that I asked for more story with sign language, so she told me the rest of the Easter story.

Fun story time.

Love my Mom

2009-04-03T20:47:00.003-05:00

Jude and I wanted to update everyone on Mom. In case you didn't know, she had surgery on Friday. She's been having some pain, so the doctors took her in for surgery to determine the cause of the pain. They did two different scopes to see on the inside of her body - and did another procedure to remove some polyps they found. They also found the source of her pain - major scar tissue from her two previous c-sections. The scar tissue was overtaking the organ, to the point that if they remove it, it will just come back. So the doctor desires to do a hysterectomy. Mom said this will happen sometime this summer.

Mom wanted us to tell you all thank you for praying for her surgery today, and please continue to keep our family in prayer as we advance towards the hysterectomy.

Give me your opinion...

2009-03-30T18:45:00.004-05:00

I've had it up to HERE with that woman named Shelley. You see, she went and got my little brother's name tattoo'd on her!! WHAT IS THIS?? I'm the first born! Why did she get HIS name first? Ooooooh, I'm so upset. Just wait.... I'll be a tween soon and she'll regret the day she got his name first....
So I did what any angry child would do... I designed my name, too. Now she has no excuses, she has to go get my name as a tattoo as well. What do you think? Just like my brother's tattoo, this is an ambigram - meaning it can be read right-side up or upside down. (if you hold your head upside down you can still read it) What do you think? Since the letters are small, I thought she could do some pretty lavender shading behind the letters and leave the letters in black. ?? Please give me your thoughts and/or tell me if you can't read it. Or how I could change the "d" and the "e" since those were the hardest letters to make work...

Happy St. Patty's Day!

2009-03-28T13:28:00.005-05:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day!! While my parents were hard at work, I went to a party at Miss Samantha's house! She took some photos and shared with us so I could post them here on my blog! Think I look good with green hair?

And then a few days later, I saw these sitting on the kitchen counter - and of course I had to try them on!!

Talk about Bed Head!

2009-03-28T13:27:00.008-05:00

If there is one thing I'm good at - it's having MARVELOUS bed head every morning! So it was high time I showed it off to the world!

Joy Ride!

2009-03-28T13:27:00.006-05:00

For Christmas, Grammy and Gramps got Jude and me a fun little wagon that we can ride in! It's been way too cold to play with it, but we are starting to get into some nice Spring weather now. So Dad pulled it out of the box the other day and put it together! And off we went down the driveway, across the street and into the park! I loved it!!!!

Exhibits A and B

2009-03-25T21:27:00.007-05:00

As I think I've posted before, I have given up on naps. But about once a week or so, I'll crash. Problem is, when I crash it's when I least expect it. So I'm not always in the best place or position to be sleeping. Naturally, my family thinks this is the funniest thing alive and always takes my photo... See Exhibit A.

And Exhibit B.

Pretty!

2009-03-25T21:22:00.003-05:00

Pretty!! My mom decided to be brave and get a pedicure. I said she was being brave because my Grammy just had a horrible accident while getting a pedicure and ended up having to go to the doctor. She has a major infection and probably needed a skin graft. If she was here in Missouri and saw her normal doctor, I think the doctor would have demanded she sue the salon. It's sickening what that man did to my poor Grammy's feet. This is the first time I've thanked Jesus for Grammy having neuropothy (I can't spell tonight - but that means that she has no feeling) in her feet. Anyway... My mom wanted her toes to look pretty, so she went and got a pedicure. When she got home, I told her that her feet were pretty and quickly asked her to paint my toes. So she found a similar color and painted mine. And she even put little white flowers on my big toes like hers! My flowers only lasted about five minutes though...I picked them off. I wanted to hold them.

Twin Size Bed

2009-03-25T21:18:00.002-05:00

In our trip to Southern Missouri, my family stayed with our cousins Lydia, Jeremy, Clayton and Landon. Clayton is two weeks older than me and Landon is two weeks older than Jude! You would have thought Lydia and Mom planned this - but it was pure coincidence... Anyway, when we stayed at their house I got to sleep in a twin bed all by myself! But as you can see, I didn't sleep the normal way (go figure - I never sleep very normal). I liked this twin bed - especially since at home I sleep in a toddler size bed still!

Family Time

2009-03-25T21:06:00.004-05:00

BUGS!!!! While down in Southern Missouri, I discovered the biggest bugs of my life! They were all over the ground and they were bigger than my hand! They were big and blackish brown and I was so scared of them! Everywhere you stepped on the ground, you stepped on them and they crunched under your feet. And then Aunt Pam showed me that they were all over in the tree above us!! OH MY GOSH!! So I covered my head so the bugs wouldn't fall on me! What I didn't understand the most was how no one else was scared of these massive bugs that were multiplying by the second... They were just laughing at me and my reaction to these bugs, which they were calling pine cones.
Finally Grammy took pity on me and picked me up so I didn't have to step on the bugs anymore. Thank you Grammy!

I was happy to see Grammy and Gramps. And Uncle Eric came in too! But I am still really scared of him. When he tried to get a photo with me...well, this is the best we could get because I was squirming so much to get away from him.

And I just liked this photo of me and Mommy....

Goodnight Great Grandpa

2009-03-25T20:53:00.004-05:00

My Great Grandpa passed away not long ago. As much as we all miss him, we must rejoice because now he's jumping for joy up in Heaven. He's feasting at massive tables with Jesus, and living in mansions built just for him. And he's not alone - he's with Great Grandma again! Best of all, he's happy again. I know it's strange to say the funeral was wonderful, but it was. It was very touching.... Even to me at my young age. And I was very happy to see Grammy, Gramps and Uncle Eric again.

This last flower arrangement was the one for all of us great grandkids...

Two Year Photoshoot

2009-03-25T20:29:00.002-05:00

When I turned One Year Old, my mom did this photo shoot of me... So when I turned Two Years Old, she tried to re-create it.... But this is all she got....

Bad Breath

2009-03-11T20:01:00.003-05:00

In a few days I'll get to see a lot of my family at my Grandpa's funeral, so my mom wanted me to ask a question out here for the masses. And this is a good place since most of my readers are parents....

I have bad breath. I eat all the same foods as my parents, but I can't drink what they drink. They drink pop, but I'm not allowed that. So I get milk, water or juice.

I can't use mouthwash, I don't understand the concept of not swallowing it. And for the same reason, I have to use floride free toothpaste. And if you have ever used that stuff - it doesn't freshen your breath. I brush 2-3 times a day, but that obviously doesn't help. So I am asking for help - how can I freshen my breath?

Prayers Wanted

2009-03-09T20:08:00.001-05:00

Please pray for my family... Tonight at 5pm, my Pa Pa (the other one) passed away. He's not been feeling good for a while, but blood clots got worse over the weekend taking him to the hospital where he coded. He passed away tonight. Please keep my mother's family in your prayers. Thank you.

Thankful Tuesday

2009-03-03T17:31:00.007-06:00

This Tuesday, I'm thankful for language. Specifically...my own developing language! Here's a random sampling of my funnier word interpretations.

Eye yeow yow = I love you
Wei-ya-ya = William
Ray-ee = Ready (like when the oven timer beeps or microwaves beep)
Wheel-ya = Leah
Wheel-ee-ya = Ophelia
Pop-coi = Popcorn
Nack = Snack
Knee = Daphne
Eennnnc = Drink
May-men = Amen
Pay-pen = Open

Daddy didn't say...

2009-02-28T23:29:00.002-06:00

Today we got a big snow storm - probably 5-6 inches of snow. So we stayed inside all day...and when it was time for lunch we all sat around the table. Mom prayed over the food and like usual, we all said "AMEN" together. But I noticed Dad didn't say it. So I looked at him and said, "Daddy! AMEN!" Of course him and Mom both started laughing, so I said it again - a little louder, "DADDY! AaaaMEN!" And finally he got the point and said "Amen".

T-P City

2009-02-28T23:04:00.002-06:00

Last night my parents were engrossed in their "Lost" DVD's, and I wanted to read my books. So I started reading to myself. But soon I got bored of that - because I can't read! So I decided to have a little fun with my books.... I made a T-P City! Before long I covered the whole living room floor!

Look at me!

2009-02-28T23:01:00.003-06:00

My bangs were starting to get a little long, and I learned the hard way; don't complain to mom about it. Why, you ask? Well, because she got out the kitchen scissors and cut them!! Oh dear, who does she think she is? A barber? But I think she did okay....this time.

Baseball Day

2009-02-28T22:57:00.004-06:00

Since spring training for baseball has started - Jude and I decided to sport some baseball clothes. We need to get some Royals shirts, but for now we have to wear what we have. Uncle Eric lives in Denver, so he sent me a Rockies Tee. And Grammy/Gramps live in Arizona, so they sent Jude a D'Backs shirt. Does anyone else think it looks like Jude is farting in my direction?? Apparently from my look, I think he did; and it stinks.

William's First Birthday!

2009-02-28T22:09:00.005-06:00

My cousin William just celebrated his first birthday in style - a huge birthday party! So of course my brother and I traveled up to Iowa to help William celebrate. The same lady who recently made my 2nd Birthday Fairy cake made this Safari cake for William. Being the toy lover I am - I was in HEAVEN here! Check out this toy box!!!!

Here's the birthday boy himself! I'm still taller right now, but it won't be long before he will tower over me...

Dad couldn't come up with us because he had to work, but I knew he would be excited when I found my own dirtbike to ride. Except this one is a Kawasaki and his is a Honda.

Soon I had to show William (with Aunt Carol's help) how to use the scooter...

Before long, lots of friends and family started to arrive. So Jude and I took pleasure in enjoying some loving from cousin Jenny and Aunt Carol.

And after we all had our fill of cake, William opened gifts...and I just had to help. Luckily he didn't care if I helped.

After everyone finally started to trickle out and head home, we tried to get a few photos. The Lord gave us a beautiful family, and Grandma wanted photographic proof. Look how cute I am!

We were trying to get a photo of all three grandchildren with Grandma - but with three children ages two and under - that is not an easy task. In fact, this was the only photo of all four of us. And well, as you can see, the photo is not one of the best. But it's what we have.

Soon William was ready for a bottle, so then we attempted to get some photos of Grandma with my brother and me. Grandma and I didn't mean to match, but we do! I think Jude might be jealous...

Well, he might be jealous, but if you look at the photo below, he's trying to hold my hand!

Happy Birthday William!!! Thanks for inviting us up to the party!

Tia the Turtle

2009-02-15T14:31:00.005-06:00

On Valentine's Day, I found my new True Love! Her name is Tia the Turtle! For my birthday, Uncle Eric sent me a gift card to the "Build A Bear" store. We hadn't gone yet, so since Valentine's Day was a Saturday, our family went out shopping. Build A Bear is quite the place! First you have to pick out the stuffed animal you want to create. My parents asked me which I wanted - but I couldn't decide. So finally Dad chose for me - a green turtle. The shell comes off like a backpack! The next step - you stand on a button which makes this giant machine twirl cotton around! And a kind lady uses that fleshly "fluffed" cotton to stuff my new Turtle!

After the animal gets stuffed, I got to grab a red satin heart and put it inside! My turtle is special - she got TWO hearts!

After you put in the heart, the kind lady stitched up my Turtle. And then we had to "fluff" up the fur. I know real Turtles don't have fur, but a stuffed animal turtle one does. These were were like giant hair blowers! And I had a hair brush to fluff up the fur.

Then we went over to the "Dressing Room" where I had the toughest choice of my life - picking out clothing and accessories! At this point I didn't know if I wanted a boy or a girl turtle. But it was decided pretty quick when I picked out on my own a pink striped tank top and a jean skirt! And then I saw something that my Turtle just HAD to have - a pink stroller!!

I couldn't wait to put my Turtle in her new stroller. But Mom told me I still had some money to spend on my gift card. So then I went over to the shoes and picked out some Sketchers! I did a great job stylizing my Turtle!

The last step in the process was to register online your new pet. Mom and Dad were going to skip this part - so I did it for them.

After we gave the kind lady our gift card, we all bundled back up in our coats to come back home. Instead of making me get into my own stroller, my parents let me walk all the way back to the car pushing my new Turtle in her stroller!

After we got home, Mom asked me what I wanted to name my Turtle. So I told her. I am not sure if Mom understand me, but I said something that sounded like "Tia." So Mom said, "Alright your Turtle is named Tia!" And I screamed out, "YEAH!!" and then did a happy dance (this is my new thing. I start singing and dancing when I get happy.) Here I am with Tia the Turtle - we put all her new clothes on her. And I'm doing my "SMILE" my fake smile for the camera. Mom told me she wanted a real smile, so I gave her one of those too... I love Tia the Turtle!! THANK YOU UNCLE ERIC!!!!!!

Hi Elise!!

2009-02-15T14:22:00.004-06:00

On Friday, February 13th, Elise Ann was born! She's the daughter of my friends Ben and Abby! So of course we went to visit them in the hospital to help welcome Elise into the world. Boy is Elise beautiful! She has a ton of hair, too! I can't wait until she gets bigger so we can play!

Funny Little Man

2009-02-15T14:17:00.005-06:00

Sometimes my parents call my brother Little Man, but on Friday night, I met a real Little Man. My family joined our friends to go out to dinner at a place called Chappell's - it's a sports museam disguised as a restaurant. Maybe because our party had two babies and two toddlers, they seated us in a back quiet room. So my parents allowed me to get up and play a little. And that's when I found the Little Man...I was fascinated by him...

Mcalister was eating with us, too. I think all babies are named Jude, and I love to help them the same way I help Jude.

Funny Nap No. 9987

2009-02-15T14:09:00.003-06:00

My blog should just be renamed "Funny Nap" or something. You see, I don't take a nap but maybe once a week. And when I do - it's normally unexpected. So I typically end up in some strange place or position when I fall asleep. On Friday (the 13th none the less!) I was playing in the living room with some of my toys and next thing I know - BAM! I'm asleep. Right in the middle of the floor on top of my toys. Mom was too scared to move me, because I might wake up and she was still "at work" (she works from home sometimes) so she just put a blanket over me and let me sleep on the floor. And then Ophelia must have thought I needed company, so she layed down by me and fell asleep, too!

CLEAN play room

2009-02-02T19:42:00.003-06:00

After my birthday my mom realized how messy my playroom was, so she was determined to figure out a way to keep it clean. So she went to Target and found this furniture piece! It has nine squares and she bought five fabric bins to keep it colorful! She put it together herself (well, I helped too! But we meant we did it without Dad - he was at work) and I was fascniated by it! But look how clean my toy room is now!!

Birthday Videos!

2009-02-02T19:40:00.005-06:00

Here are two video's from my birthday I wanted to share! The first one is me eating b'fast and announcing I'm TWO!

And then here is Grandma giving me a Puppet Show!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!!!

2009-02-02T19:02:00.008-06:00

January 31 was a big day for me; I turned TWO YEARS OLD!!! As my mother's usual fashion, the whole day was documented in photos. The day started out like any other, the whole family slept in late, and then Jude and I had to take a bath together. (Don't worry, the bubbles cover all the parts you aren't supposed to see). After I got all clean, I wanted to help give Ophelia a bath but when she shook off, she practically gave ME another bath!
And then just before lunch, Grandma and her dog Biz arrived to my house!! She had a big box and we ripped it open to find my Fairy Princess Cake!!! Look how pretty it is!!!

I loved my cake, but I really loved playing with Biz, too. I couldn't believe how big she is getting already!!

After we ate a quick lunch, Grandma had to get some cuddle time in with the Birthday Girl! She gave me a card that had a giant TWO on it!

And then I had to show off my horribly messy toy room to Grandma. I'm not the best housekeeper right now, but that's because I love to play with all my toys!!

And then a few friends came over! Aunt Kathy and Uncle John came over, and so did my friends Elijah, Eden, Misty and Shawn! There were these pretty shiny things on the cake, so I reached up to touch it.... And when everyone yelled "NO!" at me, I shrunk back into Misty's arms. The entire time everyone was singing "Happy Birthday to you..." I was fighting back tears. But by the last line of the song, I couldn't take it. Huge tears rolled out of my eyes and I ran to mom to bury my face. Eljiah had to blow out my candles for me.

After we ate our fill of my beautiful Fairy Princess cake, (and I stopped crying) I took Elijah and Eden back to my messy toy room to play! I'm not very good at sharing, so each time I have friends over I get a little better about sharing.

After we all played a litte bit, the parents had cleaned up all the cake mess from the living room and it was time for me to open my gifts! Grandma gave me a Fairy Princess outfit that matched my Fairy Princess Cake! It had an outfit, wings, tiara, wand, skirt and HIGH HEELS!! Look at me go! I walk better in heels than my mom does! Thank you Grandma! And Eljiah and Eden gave me some beautiful play necklaceses and bracelets that match the outfit!! It was just a Fairy Princess day!

Watch out though....I'm dangerous with the wand........ I almost put out Eden's eye.

But soon it was time to retire to the play room again. Elijah and I went on a date - he took me to the 50's diner and we shared some "ice cream" and "coffee".

But soon Eden joined us on our date. I shared my side of the booth with her!

Soon it was time for everyone to leave. Thank you for coming to my house and for all the gifts!! After everyone left, Grandma wanted to see my new Fairy Princess outfit on me, so we tried the whole shambang on! The outfit was a little big, but that's okay, I'll grow into it! The wings are so pretty! And I love my high heels!

And then Grandma and Mom set up my new Circus Puppet Stage! Aunt Kathy and Uncle John gave it to me, it's the coolest thing ever! It has a stage and six puppets! Thank you so much Aunt Kathy and Uncle John!!! Grandma put on a little show for me! I danced and tried to keep Ophelia from "playing" with the talking puppets.

Since the temp outside was in the 60's, (see Grammy and Gramps, you don't need to go all the way to Arizona for warm weather in January!) Grandma took me outside to play with Biz and Ophelia. But I'm a tad clumsey and I fell.... I skinned up both of my knees and one of my shoulders. So before we could go out to eat for dinner, I had to get all bandaged up. The food I eat best right now (I'm a tad picky eater....) is Italien food. So we debated on whether or not to go to Chuck E Cheese's for the pizza or to Olive Garden. Quite the difference...but my parents decided I was still probably a little young for Chuck E Cheese, so off we went to Olive Garden. That's okay, I love the breadsticks and spaghetti!!! After we got home, I put on my PJ's, but before we went to bed, I gave Grandma a puppet show! Look at me go!!!

It was such a wonderful Birthday! Thank you everyone who couldn't be here, but sent love and cards. I love you all and thank the Lord for you!

Wii Fun!

2009-01-25T11:40:00.005-06:00

I know I've told you stories about playing on the Wii before, but I just love it! And the other night when Mom was doing her Wii Fit workout, I wanted to do mine too. And since Mom hadn't let me play in a long time, she let me. Plus I think she wanted to see how much I weigh now... So here I am standing on the Wii Board (in my cute new dress that Aunt Kathy bought me!) Plus this photo shows off my cute new hair cut, too! And then below you can see my Wii Mii (aren't I cute!?) and see that I weigh 24 pounds! (But I did gain 1.1 pounds since my last weigh in!)

Strange Nap part 487

2009-01-25T11:38:00.004-06:00

What is it about me and falling asleep in strange places/positions????????

Happy Birthday to....

2009-01-25T11:22:00.003-06:00

This month is PLUM full of birthdays! So I am going to send out birthday wishes here to....

Jan 12 - Zelpha's Birthday! She was Pa Pa's wife and I need to go visit her.
Jan 14 - Karen's Birthday! She's my pretend Grandma!
Jan 16 - HAPPY BIRTH DAY (literally) to my friend Grace!!! She was just born this year!!! I haven't got to meet her yet because she lives a few hours away - and her mom had to have her via C-Section so we are giving her time to rest and heal.
Jan 20 - Tobias Birthday! He lives several states away and I've never met him yet, but I follow his monthly snapfish photo link! Happy 1st Birthday!!
Jan 20 - Dylan's Birthday! He had a big party, see that post for more details...
Jan 22 - Clayton's Birthday!! Clayton is my cousin!! He just turned two! I can't wait to go down and play with him soon, because last trip down there, he was out of town.
Jan 22 - Meyer's Birthday! My very first boyfriend! He is also turning two this year and he's the boyfriend I probably see most!
Jan 22 - Trevor's BIRTH DAY (literally!) Trevor was just born this year as well!! He's the son of my mom's co-worker! I haven't met him, but Mom has already visited him and loved holding a newborn again!
Jan 22 - MOM's Birthday!! I love you Mom!
Jan 26 - Myles Birthday! Not my Uncle Myles, but Meyer's big brother.
Jan 26 - Emmy's Birthday! She'll be turning 1 this year! What a fun first birthday! She lives up in Iowa, so maybe on our next Iowa trip we can stop in and visit her!
And of course....Jan 31 - HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!!!!!!!!! I'll be turning 2 this year!!!

My mom also says Happy Birthday to everyone. She didn't get any birthday cards out in the mail, so she says sorry about that.....

Dylan's Birthday Party!

2009-01-25T11:17:00.005-06:00

My friend Dylan is week and a half older than me, and his parents gave him a Cars themed birthday party! It was a ton of fun! Jude and I both went, but Jude was oblivious to the whole thing. Dylan's daddy Lee gave me a goody bag when we got there - and it had some fun star sunglasses and a Birthday cone hat! I loved them! (And still wear them around my house even today!) After we ate yummy food and cake/ice cream, Dylan opened all his gifts! Most of the other kids there were older and understood these were Dylan's new toys - but I just saw toys and assumed they were for me. It was a fun birthday party! Thanks for inviting me Dylan!

Playing with Oliver

2009-01-25T11:12:00.005-06:00

Last Friday night, some of my parents friends came over for dinner and to play games. So Oliver came over too! He's a year younger than me, but still a lot older than Jude, so I played with him more than Jude did. I showed him the ropes around the dinner table (even though I think he eats better than me!) and then I showed him how to use the sound table!
And what good is showing him the sound table if I didn't show him how to dance to the music?!

New friend Hannah

2009-01-25T11:10:00.002-06:00

One of my mom's high school friends had a baby about two months ago, but since she lives in Colorado, we just got to meet Hannah for the first time recently. Check out all her hair! Isn't she beautiful! Maybe if we go to Colorado to visit Uncle Eric this summer we can play with Hannah, too!

Playing with Jackson

2009-01-25T10:51:00.004-06:00

My boyfriend Jackson came over to play with me! He's actually about six months younger than me, but it's okay to rob the cradle. Younger boys are okay with me! When they first got there, I showed him a bunch of my toys. Well, they used to be my toys, but now they are Jude's. But they are still in the living room, so Jackson and I played with them. And I shared my crackers with him. I think he likes crackers as much as I do!

And then, my dad took us downstairs to play with his toy. My mom told me to apologize for this photo - the thumbnail looked good, but when you look close it's really fuzzy. But you can still see how Jackson and I were playing with Dad's toy! (With Dad and Jackson's mom Rachel standing close to make sure we don't get hurt.)

We had a fun day! Thanks for coming over Jackson, I can't wait until we can play again!

Conversations with Mom, part 1

2009-01-25T09:31:00.000-06:00

"Good morning baby," Mom said cheerfully, too early for me even though it was only 8 am.
"Maannnama," I casually replied as Mom picked me up.
"Did you have any dreams last night?" I nodded yes, still in my dreamful state. "What did you dream about little girl?"
"Potty."
"You dreamt about going potty?!" Mom said with a little too much enthusiam. "How did that make you feel?"
Really Mom? I thought to myself she sounded like a shrink or something, so I came up with an easy answer, "Cold."

Countdown...

2009-01-20T19:26:00.002-06:00

Just wanted to remind you all.... TEN MORE DAYS UNTIL MY SECOND BIRTHDAY!!!!!!

Thanksful Tuesday

2009-01-20T19:15:00.002-06:00

It's Tuesday again - and that means another week of announcing something I'm thankful for. When Mom asked me earlier tonight, I said something. She asked me again, and I said the exact same thing. Problem is - Mom couldn't understand me.

So she had to ask me for something different. So I am thankful for Miss Samantha! She's my friend who watches me on days that both of my parents have to go to work. She's wonderful and she has several daughters who I love playing with! Oh, and a cute dog named Rambo!

Potty!

2009-01-15T21:21:00.003-06:00

My parents have been putting me on the potty left and right. And I have yet to do it....until today. I was sitting on the potty and a tiny rabbit turd came out. My parents got so excited and gave me an M&M and kept saying how good I was! I don't see what the big deal is.... I'm not potty trained by any means. I just happened to go #2 while sitting on the potty. It was just the first time EVER to "go" while sitting on the potty. I'm not even two years old yet, I think I'm doing good.

Shoes and Socks

2009-01-15T21:17:00.002-06:00

My mom has this annoying habit of saying a name of a body part and I'm supposed to point to it. Well, recently she's switched things up. She has starting to point to a body part and I'm supposed to say the name of it. So today when she pointed to her first place - she pointed at her shoes. So I said "Shoes". And she started to laugh. I didn't see what was so funny. Then she took off her shoe and asked me again what she was pointing at. Duh, "Socks!" Instead of praising me, she just laughed again. Then she took off her sock and pointed again. So I said, "Toes." And then she started to praise me. I don't get it. Why was it so funny? She pointed and I said the words. But I guess she was only doing body parts.... Mom is weird.

Thankful Tuesday

2009-01-12T21:20:00.002-06:00

Hi! One of my mom's coworkers has a blog for her daughter - and on that blog she has a day when she says something she is thankful for. So I wanted to do the same thing! My mom asked me earlier what I was thankful for....and this is what I said.

On this Tuesday, I'm thankful for BRACELETS! (This is Shelley speaking - when I asked Daphne - that's really what she told me).

First Hair Cut!!

2009-01-11T10:41:00.005-06:00

My Dad was holding me a few weeks ago and I heard him whisper something to Mom. At first Mom looked shocked, then sad. And then finally she agreed. I wondered what they were talking about. But soon enough, I found out. I was to get my FIRST EVER HAIRCUT!!! You see, I really don't have that much hair. It's really thin and growing in pretty uneven. The front is pretty short still, and it's straight. But the back is actually pretty long, but very curly. When you stretch out the curls, they go halfway down my back! I think I heard Dad say that horrible word....Mullet. So it was time to cut off the Mullet. So off to Sheer Madness we headed. It's this hair salon that specializes in children's hair cuts. Instead of barber chairs, you sit in cars or airplaines or train cars. I choose the Cinderella car. And they play a movie on a TV in front of you!

I was so engrossed in "Shrek" I don't think I realized she was cutting my hair!

She cut several inches off the back and just trimmed up my bangs in front...

And VOILA!!! Look how pretty I look now!!! I have a cute bob, with just a few layers in back to keep the curls looking full. Mom and Dad both say my hair looks thicker suddenly!

And when it was time to go, I didn't want to! I wanted to stay and play in that car more and see more movie!

Mom said she was proud of herself for not crying.......Strange Mom.

Christmas in Iowa!

2009-01-11T10:15:00.006-06:00

Because a big snow/ice storm was supposed to hit Iowa right after Christmas, we had to delay our Christmas trip up there a week. And then go figure, the storm didn't hit! So we finally made it up to Iowa for a late Christmas. But since it was just after New Year, Brandon and William were up visiting his family, so we didn't get to see them. But we did spend time with Grandma, Aunt Leah, Uncle Myles, Great Grandma H, Grandpa, Buffy and Great Grandma C!

Oh and I forgot about Biz! Biz is the newest member of the family. Grandma got Biz the day after Christmas and just adores her new puppy! He is a Standard Poodle, and a few days later, when Grandma took him to the vet - found out he is a she! Whoops!

We drove up late after Mom and Dad got off work, so Jude and I drove up in our PJ's. But as soon as we got to Grandma's you better believe I went right to the toys! I know where they are stashed.... But Grandma said there was a special gift I should go ahead and open - so I did. And what do you know, but I got my first Tea Set!!! I love it! Thanks Grandma!

By that point, everyone was tired, so we all trickled to bed. And when we all woke up the next morning, we pretended it was Christmas morning and opened up stockings and all the rest of the presents under the tree! I got a bunch of new toys and some new clothes! Thank you everyone!! I love them!
And then I misunderstood Mom. She said it was time to put UP the stockings, but I thought she said to put ON the stockings....
After we got all cleaned up, we went over to GG and Grandpa's house for lunch. Aunt Leah went with us, too. I love to give her hugs and kisses!

While we were there, Buffy came over, too. She had some gifts for us! She got me a Princess BackPack and a China Tea Set!! Thank you Buffy!! Mom said the China Tea Set will be for when I am older, but I could play with the Back Pack all I wanted. I feel like such a big girl wearing it!!! I even like to run and put it on when Dora sings her "Back Pack, Back Pack" song on TV!

I loved our time in Iowa, but soon it was time to come home again. I love you all!!! Merry Christmas!! (a week or two late!)

Happy New Year!

2009-01-11T10:04:00.004-06:00

Happy 2009!! I can't believe that 2009 is already here. And you know what that means? My 2nd Birthday is approaching fast!!! To ring in the New Year, we went over to our friends Matt and Alison house. And because the Jayhawks were playing in a Bowl game that night, Mom dressed us in our KU gear. I think she really did it to take a photo for "Uncle" Brandon. He really loves KU.

Over and Matt and Alison's house, we played with their kids all night. They have FOUR boys, so there is always lots of excitement over there! Myles I think has a crush on me....

Christmas Day

2008-12-27T23:42:00.007-06:00

Merry Christmas Everyone!!! I'm so happy that such a long time ago God sent his Son down to Earth to live among us. He gave us such a wonderful thing to celebrate - Christmas! We celebrate the birth of Jesus - but I know the holiday has become very commercialized about gift giving, trees, stockings and Santa that we often forget the true meaning of the holiday. And I'm not ashamed to say Merry Christmas instead of Happy Holidays. I vote we all leave Christ in Christmas! I prefaced my post with that, but now I want to share in photos the joy I got from opening all my gifts! Don't worry, I gave both Mom and Dad each a gift. Dad helped me buy Mom hers, and vise versa. And I had just as much joy helping them open their gifts from me! The first thing we did was open our stockings. Last year I just had a generic stocking (Jude used it this year) but this year I had my very own cross stiched stocking made my Grammy! It has my name on it, and shows the Nativity scene of baby Jesus's birth! But then Mom told me to open it, that there might be something inside. I didn't know what she was talking about - it's just a big sock...

But whoa!!! There WAS stuff in there!!! WOW!!! I got a whole bunch of cars!! My favorite!! And I got his crazy toy called a Slinky. It's amazing! I don't understand how it works, but it's sure fun to watch!After everyone opened our stockings, we got to rip open all those presents under the tree that have been tempting me for so long. Everyone laughed at me, because I would rip open a gift and then rush over to Dad to have it take it out of the box for me!Thank you everyone for all the gifts you got me! I have special toys that mean a lot to me, I'm sure you know which one (the one you got me of course!) After we ate breakfast and cleaned up, we went back to Aunt Kathy's house for a big Christmas dinner. I got all dressed up in my pretty Christmas dress! Don't I look adorable?? (I was checking out Katee, because I thought she looked adorable!)

Christmas Eve

2008-12-27T23:23:00.009-06:00

The big day finally arrived! Christmas Eve!! Yeah! The day started like most any other. Both of my parents were working, but at least Mom was working from home so Jude and I got to play at home all day. After both parents got off work, Jude and I were put in our special Christmas outfits. Mine was called "Mrs. Claus" or something. I guess cause it was a dress version of the famous Santa outfit. And Jude had two outfits...one striped with a reindeer on his butt (excuse me, I shouldn't say that - on his behind) and then a white fuzzy one that said "First Christmas".

So anyway, after we got dressed and had our photos taken, we went up to Aunt Kathy's house. My mom's side of the family is pretty small to start off with; then add in the fact that Grammy and Gramps are in Arizona, Uncle Eric is in Colorado, and Katee had to work - so it left just Aunt Kathy, Uncle John, Ethan, Mom, Dad, Jude and me. Small and cozy... We all missed Pa Pa though. We had a great meal and then opened gifts. Aunt Kathy felt horrible after she realized she only got me clothes - and no toys. But I didn't mind. I helped everyone else open their gifts, and then played with Uncle John and Ethan as they did magic tricks with the paper for me!

After we left there, we went over to our friend's house to tell them Merry Christmas. About a mile from my house is the home of Mrs. Karen and Mr. Gary. My mom has been friends with two of their kids (one of them is the one I call my boyfriend Ben!) since she was a little girl, and she played over there all the time when she was growing up. And when we got there, that guy I call my boyfriend just happened to be there!! But believe it or not, on this night I was more drawn to his wife Abby. She has long curly hair, and she loves to "tickle" me with it. She rubs it on my face or my ears and I just love it! And then...... I lifted my dress and she "tickled" my tummy. But instead of tickling, it felt so good! So I sat back and enjoyed it... And this is a blackmail photo if I have ever seen one....

One cute story... My mom told me the story of Christmas - about baby Jesus being born in a manger. Well, just after she said that baby Jesus was born, I yelled out "AMEN!" I didn't understand why Mom starting laughing so hard. Whenever we are at the dinner table and I hear them saying the name Jesus we all say Amen, so why was it funny this time?

Oh Christmas Tree...

2008-12-27T23:16:00.003-06:00

This is my second Christmas, but I don't really remember much about my first one. So this all seems like a new experience to me. Including this giant tree in my living room. I'm rather fascinated by it. It has all these lights on it, and it's covered with toys! Wait, I think Mom called them ornaments, but they sure look like toys to me! Everyone tells me not to touch the tree, but I'm like that moth ever approaching the lights. I just can't stay away from it.

What makes matters worse, is that my mom keeps adding these boxes under the tree. They are all taped up with pretty paper and big ribbons! All these temptations right here in my living room! I can't hold back! Especially from that one gift for Uncle John with a toy car taped to the front!! Well, okay. I ripped off a couple bows from some gifts. I got put in time out and I didn't touch the tree or the presents again. (at least that is what my parents think...)

Ding Fries are done...

2008-12-27T23:09:00.004-06:00

Ding fries are done, ding fries are done! Would you like an apple pie with that, would you like an apple pie with that? Before my Grammy and Gramps left for Arizona, they bought a special Christmas gift for me. And the week before Christmas, my wonderful daddy set it up for me. What is it you ask?

A 50's Diner!!!! It's pretty sweet!! I can cook hamburgers, and they really sizzle as they cook. I can make a pot of coffee, just like Daddy (and it really bubbles as it gets "hot"), and I can serve up ice cream for Mommy! It has a juke box, which of course I swing my hips to and dance all around when it plays.

And the best part is, the other side has a booth where I can pretend to eat! My Dad got a kick out of me, because after I finished eating my first pretend meal here, I took my dishes to the sink and pretended to wash them! And then I poured myself a pretend drink! He took a video of it, so maybe I'll try to post that on here sometime.

Thank you Grammy and Gramps!! I love it!!!

O-R-E-O

2008-12-27T23:07:00.003-06:00

I just discovered Oreo cookies....and I am hooked!! Give me a glass of milk and call me happy.

Wii

2008-12-18T21:11:00.002-06:00

I have a new addiction... the Wii!! Yes, I know I'm not even two yet, but I love the Wii! I'll play the Wii Fit - I enjoy the downhill skiing a lot! And on the yoga poses, I try my best to mimic it, even though I stink at standing on one leg. I really love playing Mario Kart and holding the steering wheel! But I'm told I come in last place in all my races. When I hear that Wii Music starting up, I hold out my hand so Dad can put the wiimote on my wrist! He's starting me early on video games!

Abby's Baby Shower!

2008-12-18T20:49:00.005-06:00

My Mom and Miss Alison hosted a baby shower for Miss Abby! She's having a little girl in a few short months, and I'm looking forward to more girls running around. Look at how beautiful Miss Abby looks! (and Mom wants to show off her artwork from the blackboard). Since the shower was at my house, I had to learn very quickly how to share all my toys, books and my chair. At first I wasn't too keen on the idea, but after a stern talk from my mother I quickly attempted to share...My boyfriend Jackson was there too! I kept hugging on him, but I'm not sure he was enjoying it as much as I was. In fact, I think he's screaming HELP! with his eyes here!

Eden was the other youngster there. I was born in January, Eden was born in June and Jackson was born in July! And since our parents are all friends, I hope we all stay friends for a long time. Jackson won't go to school with me, but Eden and I should be in the same grade in school, just like our mommies! Eden has red hair like me, but her mom is quite sad since Eden's new growth is not coming in red. Abby enjoyed all her "young" friends who joined her at the shower. (Jude and Mcalister were there too, but being 4 and 5 months old, they didn't play too much).

Miss Marion and Miss Kim decorated Eden's and my ponytails with the curling ribbon!

Mom also got pretty creative with the food. She put chicken salad inside phyllo (filo?) bread cups, and she meant to put an olive on the top of each one, but forgot to. And then she put cherry tomatoes and mozzarralla balls on bamboo skewers! Also served was grapes, bruchetta and pink lemonade with floating cherries. Dessert was truffles Mom made, as well as a volcano of cream puffs! Yummy!! Everything has a "polka dot" theme... But all I ate was the grapes...

Abby got lots of gifts for her daughter, and soon Ben had to come over to help her get everything back home...

Fell down...again.

2008-12-18T20:44:00.003-06:00

I have this habit of tripping over my own two feet rather often. I'd say at least once a day. Normally, I laugh it off, but occasionally I get hurt. I already have two scars from falling (once into the wood burning and once off the barstool) and the other day I fell...again; and I instantly got a goose egg on my forehead. So we pulled out the trusty Elephant Ice Pack and I held it on there...
But even with the ice pack, if you look closely on my forehead in this Christmas family shot we had taken the next morning - you can almost see the bruise from my fall.

Go?

2008-12-18T20:39:00.001-06:00

I've learned a new game! "Go?" Here are the rules... Take an object (or myself) and hide it under my blanket or in my hands, or if it's me - hide behind the curtain - and then say "Go?" and hold my hands up in the air like I'm asking a question. Repeat "Go?" once or twice, then dramatically reveal the object - or myself - and squeal in delight!

He's in my shot!

2008-12-18T20:35:00.002-06:00

It's pretty common knowledge around my house that when that black square thingamugic makes a "click" noise, the proof will be on this blog or my brother's blog. BUT...I am becoming a camera hog. I want the spotlight on ME. Jude doesn't need anymore photos taken of him! So the other day when Mom was trying to take some of him, I jumped in front of him! You can just barely see the Bumbo chair and his hands behind me. Mom was laughing so hard she missed my cute smile for the photo....

"Flung" in a Bean Bag

2008-12-02T21:45:00.005-06:00

Some of you might remember my post from January 08 called "Stuck in a Bean Bag" where I talked about a new torture chair called a Bean Bag - because I couldn't get out of it? Well, I've long figured out the art of how to get out of it - and now it's a favorite thing to play with!

Photo above and below are me from January "stuck" in the bean bag...

And here I am now, loving the chair! I run from half way across the room and "fling" myself in the chair! Then I climb out and repeat the process for about ten minutes...

I LOVE MY CHAIR!

Zippers? Oh yeah!

2008-12-02T21:34:00.005-06:00

I have recently discovered the art of how to work a Zipper. Such an easy task - not sure why I didn't master it a long time ago. But it's my new love... Mom's purse to hide toys or play with her cell phone. The diaper bag to find the hidden snacks for me or to grab a diaper to put on Monkey Bear. But the best zipper of all - Jude's PJ's! I'm amazed with his belly button - it's really long and looks quite different than mine. And I learned if I unzip his PJ's, I can hide a toy in there if I re-zip it up! Mom was quite shocked to find one of my puzzle pieces in there the other day....

Polar Express!

2008-12-02T21:27:00.005-06:00

What happens in every mall come December? The Polar Express of course!! Last Saturday my Grammy and Gramps pretended they were on the Desert Express and left our cold state for a much warmer state to spend the winter. Since Dad was at work, Mom felt lonely - so she took Jude and I shopping. It turned out to be quite the adventure since it was the first day it snowed! But I didn't mind - I got to ride the Polar Express!!! Check out the cutie in the pink stocking cap in the yellow car!

I loved it so much, I wanted to ride again! But this time, I got in the engine car! Mom was nervous I might get scared, but I loved it!

I can't wait for next year when Jude can ride with me!

Miss Hong Kong

2008-12-02T21:21:00.004-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving!! This is my second Thanksgiving, but last year I was just barely eating normal foods. Not much has changed this year - I'm so picky when it comes to food I barely ate anything. Maybe next year... But my big cousin Katee is going to college to become a Chef (just like my Uncle Eric!) and earlier this year she went to a cooking competition in Asia! (Where I might add she won a GOLD medal!) While in Hong Kong, she bought this dress for me! And Thanksgiving was my first time to wear it! I'm Miss Hong Kong!

What on Earth???

2008-12-02T21:19:00.003-06:00

When it comes to strange positions for naps, I take the cake...............

Like Mom, Like Daughter

2008-12-02T21:11:00.004-06:00

My mom has a tatoo on her foot, so I wanted one too! Lucky for me, my mom just happened to have a fake tatoo that perfectly matched hers! So she put it on my foot! Check us out!

I was so excited, I was showing my foot to everyone - even Peanut and Ophelia!

And then at my Pa Pa's funeral, I wanted to show everyone, too. So I refused to keep my shoes and socks on so that I could show off my cute accessory.

Like mom, like daughter... A big dork!

Dear ol' Pa Pa

2008-12-02T20:46:00.008-06:00

My baby brother posted some old photos of Pa Pa, so I thought I would post some of my favorites, too. Here's Pa Pa with his first wife, Edith, who was Grammy's mom! And here's Pa Pa with someone who sure looks like a young me, but I don't recognize that toy. Wait...that's my mom!!

At the funeral, there was a special pink flower that said Pa Pa. That was for me!! I loved smelling it. It was sitting right next to Pa Pa's mandolin! Maybe one day I'll learn how to play it...

The funeral lasted a long time, and even though I was playing with my boyfriend Ben the whole time I passed out like a rock on the ride home. And then something crazy happened. I must prefice it with this side note - I'm VERY scared of my Uncle Eric for some reason. Maybe because he's so tall - a lot taller than my daddy or my Uncle Myles. He's even taller than most of my parent's friends. Uncle Eric thinks I am scared of him because he tried to feed me to a dinosaur (see the photographic proof in a post called "T-Rex having ME for lunch" from October 2007). Side note ended. So when we got home from the funeral, I was sound asleep in the car. Uncle Eric thought he'd grasp the moment to hold me for once. But as soon as he picked me up...I woke up! And I knew I was in Uncle Eric's arms!!The next morning we got up early and drove way down South for the graveside services. But before we went there, the church gave us a giant potluck. Naturally, I found the nursery and pulled out a few toys to play with my cousins! (and Dad!)

Of course I found a John Deere Tractor - Gramps raised me right!It was such a long day, so on the way back home, we all needed to "escape" so we ate dinner at a western steakhouse. Ethan propped me up on a saddle and I knew to throw my hands up in the air like I had seen on all those rodeo's I'd watched on TV with Pa Pa!

My dear ol' Pa Pa, I love you and miss you. But I know you are up in Heaven now feasting with Jesus. Thank you for teaching me how to pray and how to say Amen. Keep an eye on me, and I can't wait until I can see you again one day.

What a sad/crazy day...

2008-11-20T23:40:00.002-06:00

Talk about a whirlwind. That was today for you. In the morning, it was just me and dad hanging out at the house. Dad had rented a log splitter, and he needed to split all the wood. It was hooked up to the hitch of the truck - so I got to play in the truck since it was too cold for me to be outside. And of course, I took off my shoes and socks like I always do.

When we came inside, it was cold, so Dad built a fire.... Turns out he started one outside too! When he dumped the ashes from the last fire - apparently they weren't out yet and our field caught fire! So I got to watch from the windows as a fire truck came and put out the fire! It burned a lot of our field, and it burned around all the lilac bushes, but we think the lilac's will survive. Dad felt horrible, because the fire got about ten feet from the neighbors house...

And then the day ended quite sad. Around 7:15pm on Thursday, Nov 20, my Pa Pa joined Jesus in Heaven. I will always love and miss you Pa Pa. (as I type with tears running down my cheeks).