No Longer a Baby!

It's official - my baby is no longer a baby.  Cole Thomas is 2 years old.  We've moved him from a crib to a toddler bed, and we've turned around his car seat.  His "baby-isms" are going to be fewer and fewer!  Before I know it, he's going to be in preschool.  We decided not to host an official birthday party this year.  Cole is still struggling with some pretty severe allergies that make parties challenging.  However, we did decide to have a food-allergy-free cupcake and some "ice cream" after dinner on his birthday.  He was not interested in the cupcake, but the ice cream was a big hit!

Trampoline Heaven

We've Got This, Mom.

Recently, we were invited to a trampoline bouncing birthday party.  I had initially intended to just take Sydney; however, I ended up taking both kids.  Even on the day of the party, I figured Cole would be too young to jump - but I was wrong!  It turned out that he just made the age cut-off, and both kids were able to participate.  And - WOW - did they have a blast.  Syd bounced and bounced and bounced some more.  Cole didn't do as much bouncing as he did running around.  Then - they saw the foam pit.  Even mommy got to do some flips!  Needless to say, a good time was had by all, and both kids slept very well that night! 

Beach Trip!

We enjoyed the most wonderful weekend at the beach with the Chabots recently! We've never really visited the beach outside of normal, peak season, but this time, we visited in April - which was a nice change of pace. It wasn't warm enough to wear our bathing suits or get in the water, but there were fewer people at the beach, so we could stretch out and really enjoy ourselves. Also, there was absolutely no traffic on the way there or back. And - we actually lucked out, and the weather was unseasonably warm! As always, the Chabots were incredibly hospitable, and if you were to ask Sydney, she'd probably tell you that her favorite part of the visit was the Chabot's new bunk beds. Sydney slept on the top bunk, and Cole slept on the bottom - his first time sleeping in a "big boy" bed! All in all, the weekend was a fabulous success and reminded us again of how lucky we are to have such a special relationship with the Chabots. We love you!

Playing in the sand

Hello beach!

Snuggle time with his Godmother

Busy, busy

Still Rollin...

To my utter amaze-ment, I'm still a roller girl. This Friday will mark a full year since my crazy idea of trying roller derby! The last year has included lots of ups and many downs. I've had more than my share of bumps and bruises, but the friends I've made, the experiences I've shared, and the fun I've had have made it all more than worth it. I can't wait for what my next year in derby holds! We have more bouts coming up, and I'm attending my first derby convention - woo hoo! I'm so thankful for deciding to push the limits of my comfort zone and trying something new. Here's to knee socks, booty shorts, and good friends!

Happy Easter

This year, Easter involved a lot of what Sydney calls "Easter hunting" otherwise known as Easter egg hunts! We attended a hunt at Syd's school, one at a local park, and one at grandma and papa's house! I really enjoyed watching the kids have a good time, so I didn't capture too many good pics, but here are some fun ones.

Snuggles with Papa!
The Best Pic I Got of Both Kids Together :/

In Deep Negotiations with the Bunny!

I Found One!

Happy Birthday Syd!

About a month ago, we celebrated Sydney's fourth birthday! It feels like just yesterday, Sydney was a baby. Now, she's all grown up with her own ideas and lots of attitude! Right around the time of Sydney's birthday, she was "Star Student" at school. As part of that honor, she was asked to answer a series of questions. I think we'll answer these questions every year on her birthday and see how the answers change. Here goes!

Favorite food? Macaroni and cheese - WITHOUT ham! (sometimes, mommy tries to sneak in some extra protein)

Favorite color? Pink and blue

Favorite thing to do with your family? Snuggle, swim, and go to the beach

Favorite book? Strawberry Shortcake Easter Hunting book

What do you want to be when you grow up? Super star