The Sheltons:

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-27T14:16:00.000-06:00

As we drive around town Carter keeps asking why all the stores and shopping centers have Christmas decorations up but no Thanksgiving decorations. It makes me think of my friend Joy who feels sort of the same way - Thanksgiving seems to be overlooked. Thanksgiving is her favorite holiday of the year and I can understand why. It's all about good food, great family and no pressure on finding the perfect gift. You get to cook; I say "get" because I do like to cook. You get to watch football all day and just spend a few days off with family. Yes it can be exhausting standing in the kitchen all day and then spending an hour or two cleaning it all up. But its worth it. We all sit around the table talking about what we are thankful for. I make everyone tell me what their favorite part of the meal is, and it doesn't have to be what I made. We all slow down and enjoy the meal and each other.

We might not have a bunch of commercial decorations but we did have some crafts that the boys helped make. Well, mainly Carter, but Cole was on the sidelines joining in with some glue here or there.

These are the finger print turkey place cards Carter made. His letters are so big we couldnt fit "Grandma" or "Grandpa" or "Grandmama". We settled for Char, Terry and G-Ma.

If you look close you'll see the tree branches are the kids hands. Carter traced his and Cole's hands and cut them out himself. I traced Conley's fist. Again, the leaves aren't big enough for full names. So we have GP GM for Grandma and Grandpa on the top left green leaf. And Nan and PeePa on the top right. The bottom says "We are thankful for our Family Tree". I'll probably laminate this and bring it out as one of Thanksgiving decorations.

The boys celebrated Thanksgiving at school. Cole had a Sharing Lunch where every child brought something to share. He had gotten up so early that day (and almost every day since the darn time change) that he actually fell asleep eating his lunch. His teachers told him to go lay down on the circle carpet where he fell into a dead sleep. They moved him into the office. So when I went to pick him up that afternoon they told me he was in the office. I was concerned he might have been in trouble, which he's never been at school. But nope - apparently the tryptophan in the turkey got him!

All the four year olds, Kindergarten and Transition classes have a "Thankgiving Experience" where they turn the Fellowship Hall into the first Thanksgiving. They have corn grinding, butter churning, clay bowl making, dough rolling and more. I mentioned in a previous post that I volunteered to help and they stuck me at Face Painting. I was quite nervous considering my last experience with four year olds and face painting. But when I arrived I was pleasantly surprised to see paint crayons and child height floor mirrors. They had several poster boards with Indian Symbols and the kids were supposed to draw their own symbols on their face. I just had to supervise. Yipee! My lack of artistic skills would not be highlighted this time. As it turns out the four year olds had a hard time writing on their face, so I did end up doing it for them. But drawing mountains and rivers is ALOT easier than the Circus Days templates of lions and elephants.

Carter holding the big stick for the pretend fire making lesson.

That's the sign for river on his forehead. That paint crayon stayed on for 3 days, even after showers.

Carter and Cole both made some Thanksgiving themed artwork. I'm not going to show it all, but here are their laminated handprints.

Our Thanksgiving Day started out like this ... Click on it to enlarge it and really see it's beauty.

It was the most beautiful foggy sunrise in the Hill Country. We went back up to Austin to Broken Creek (that's the name of Mom and Dad's place) to celebrate with Jerry and Lois and Grandmama.

Mom and I did most of the cooking while Brian and Dad took the big boys on lots of hikes. Lois and Grandmama got lots of time with Conley. Here he is "talking" with Grandmama on the porch.

In his Thanksgiving outfit for his first Thanksgiving.

When Carter wasn't hiking, he did help out in the kitchen. He stirred up things, helped measure and here he is cutting the ends off the green beans.

All of the activity and constant entertaining really wore them out. Cole missed dinner (it was at 3:30) and slept through it.

Climbing in the cedar tree. Really resembles the "Cheese Tree" we have in our neighborhood.

Jerry brought the turkey and Dad fried it. It was delicious. Carter went back at least 3-4 times the rest of the day asking for more turkey. He didn't even try the Honeybaked Ham until the next day because he was convinced it couldn't be better than that turkey.

Our desserts. We made homemade (from scratch, minus the crust) pumpkin pie - Cole's favorite, we tried a new recipe this year - Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars, they were fantastic, and we picked up a Goode Co. pecan pie. So yummy.

One of our tables, with the carved turkey on it.

The bar, full of food and a couple place settings. That's one big HoneyBaked ham ...

Watching football and eating a second round of dessert.

The next day we watched more football. Carter is addicted to football. He knows how the game works, what interceptions are, touchdowns, extra points, field goals, and first downs even. He cracks me up when he cheers "Get that guy, Get that guy!" Or "Nice block", but the thing he says the most "Look at this!" He wants to make sure you see every play. He makes me pause the game so he can go to the bathroom or get a drink. He just loves football.

Grandmama's sister (my great aunt) Vicki came over to see the house and the baby for the first time.

Before we left Dad took the boys on one last hike down to the pond. Carter found a deer skull.

And Cole wants to show off its teeth.

We had a great Thanksgiving. And hope you all did too. We ate too much but I'm still looking forward to the left over desserts.

Now onto the Christmas season ...

This land is your land, this land is my land ...

2011-11-22T05:40:00.000-06:00

Some of you may remember that song. Some may not. But either way it is the perfect title for this blog. About 50 years ago my grandfather bought 51 acres near Marble Falls (outside Austin near Lake Travis). He and Grandma never built a house out there, but they did have a barn and a great shooting range. As kids, we would go out there to explore, ride the tractor, learn how to shoot his many guns (I'm a great shot by the way), have weenie roasts and many other fun things. Before he died almost 3 years ago he split it up between Dad and my Uncle Jerry. Over the years Mom and Dad have been working out there clearing off where they want their retirement house to be, making a road to the clearing and other stuff. At the beginning of the year they hired an architect and a builder to start work on what will be their guest house. And now it's done. Carter calls it his house. He tells everyone that it's our house up in Austin and that Grandma and Grandpa haven't built their house yet. Well he's kinda right. Like I said, that's the guest house and once Dad retires in 4-5 years, they'll build the main house. THEN the guest house will kinda be ours since that's where we'll stay and they'll have the main house. So now you know why I titled the post like I did.

We went up there this past weekend and met Matthew and Allison who brought Asher down from Colorado for his first trip to Texas. Mom and Dad had been up to Colorado a couple times to see him but I finally got to meet him. He'll be 2 months next week. Jerry and Lois, who have started the building process on their retirement home, were up there this weekend, as well as Grandma. It was a great "Welcome to Texas" party for Asher.

Grandpa would be so proud to see his family enjoying the land he bought. He'd smile to see all the memories we are making out there. And it's heartwarming to see my sons make the same memories I had when I was little.

This photo is of Carter driving on my lap in the car on the what he calls the "Bumpy Road" - the dirt road leading up to the house. It just reminded me of all the times I would ride on Grandpa's lap on the tractor. The tractor is still out there, but needs some work. So the Toyota will have to do for now :)

Grandmama holding Asher for the first time.

He's a sweet baby. It wasn't a long enough visit - they had so many people to see while they were in Austin. We are looking forward to their extended stay over Christmas/New Years. Since Alli will still be on maternity leave and Matthew's company has an office here, he can work and we can see them MUCH more.

The ladies on the back porch rockin' babies...

Aunt Alli and Conley. This was her first time to meet him.

I like this picture. Carter just loves to hold Conley. He asks all the time.

And this past weekend it was double the opportunity to hold babies. Here he is holding Asher. Every day last week he'd wake up and look at the magnetic calendar on the wall and see if it was Friday the 18th yet, the day we had the magnetic square for "Visit Relatives." He wanted to know if it was the day he'd get to see Baby Asher. He was almost as excited as me.

Look how blue Conley's eyes look.

Asher in Conley's bouncy seat.

Cole playing shuffleboard. As you can see, he's not too bad. Mom and Dad also have a pool table in the house. They aren't allowed to play with the sticks for obvious reasons, but with close supervision we let them roll the balls from pocket to pocket. I'm looking forward to an adult only trip up there so I can play some games without hollering at the kids :)

Cole looking at the beautiful view from the porch. Mom designed the railing herself. It turned out nice considering she gave the builder a hand drawn sketch.

I keep hearing I need to cut Cole's hair. But when it gets this length it flips up in the back and it's so cute. I'm holding out as long as I can...

We are headed back up there for Thanksgiving. It's a wonderful place to relax. The boys hike all around the property and I take every calm opportunity to sit on the porch with a drink and just rock. I've never been one to sit still and do nothing. But here I can. Thanks to Grandpa and Grandma for finding such a wonderful place where family can be together. And thanks to my parents for building such a gorgeous and inviting house for us to enjoy.

Pumpkins, Parties and Halloween

2011-11-16T13:18:00.000-06:00

Bring on Fall and all that comes with it. I took the boys to a Pumpkin Patch. It was a chilly day. So we werent out there long. That, and I knew there was no way I'd get all three kids to smile for the camera. It's funny how you realize (as you have more kids) that you'll never get that "perfect picture." With three kids, a perfect picture is one when they are all even in the frame.

While it looks like Carter was about to drop Conley - he wasn't and he didn't.

The big boys.

Carter found his pumpkin almost immediately.

Cole on the otherhand, took quite awhile. I told them about the size I was looking for, because we were going to make characters out of them with some toys I bought. Cole wanted HUGE or tiny, not the parameters I gave him (as usual).

Conley in his Halloween outfit. No good up close ones, he was tired and chilly.

Carter riding a "rocket" pumkin

Cole's Buzz LightYear Pumpkin

Carter's Yoda Pumpkin - he loves Star Wars these days. And the warty pumpkin he found at the patch, was perfect for Yoda.

Instead of celebrating Halloween, his school does a Circus Days celebration where they transform the gym into a circus. The boys were so excited about it and that I was going to volunteer. When I told Brian I was helping out at the face painting booth, he said "Can you paint faces?" Really Brian? They're toddlers and preschoolers, does it matter? Well, I realized upon arrival what their templates were (lions, elephants, circus tents) that No - I couldn't paint faces. I stuck to balloons.

Here is a photo of Cole crying. He was terrified of the clown. Which happened to be his Motor teacher (that's what they can Gym/P.E.), Mrs. Cox. Thankfully I was there helping out and could diffuse the situation. He still talks about it, "I scared of clowns" is what he says alot.

Pics of a few of the stations before the kids got there.

The scene of my crime - the face painting booth. Funny side note - Carter has a "Thanksgiving Experience" at school this week and I signed up to help for it. The only place they needed help during the time I could volunteer was FACE PAINTING. Are you kidding me? Maybe I can draw corn or something. I'll let you know how it goes.

We went to one of the best birthday parties recently. Their friend Awbrey turned 5 and she celebrated at Itz. Cole died and went to heaven - seriously. We were there almost 4 hours and he was kicking and screaming when we left. We started out at the miniature bowling. One of his favorite things to do, except that he normally doesn't share the lane OR the ball. But he listened to Joanna and Julie and took turns.

The other happy camper of the night was Brian. This place has Guitar Hero and Joanna had purchased the package that allows the kids to have unlimited game play while they are there as long as the game didn't spit out tickets. This game is normally $3 to play, so Brian took advantage :) Plus Itz serves beer and margaritas - and we couldn't pass that up either!

Cole loved the roller coaster, but he really loved it when Daddy rode with him.

Carter's favorite part of the night is when they all got on the bumper cars. Technically they are a couple inches short of the height requirement, but the attendant was so nice and let all the birthday party guests on. They did this for at least 20 minutes since it was empty at the time.

Cole on the Monkey Jump with a random girl. You think he was enjoying himself?

Conley slept through most of it.

On Halloween my good friend Julie and her family came over to Trick or Treat with us. Here she is getting a smile out of Conley before we got his costume on.

He wasn't too happy about the costume. Cute pirate though!

Carter was Yoda and Luke was Darth Vadar.

Cole was Luke Skywalker, but I don't have a single good picture of him in his costume. Julie got some with her camera, and she'll email them to me once she's in her new house with Internet. Could you imagine not having Internet for 3 weeks! Not me!

I didn't get a good picture of Conley the night of Halloween, so I put his bandana and earring back on the next morning. He slept in his shirt and baby legs :) He is SO SWEET! I just want to eat him up :)

It isn't always about the baby :)

2011-11-14T19:52:00.002-06:00

Okay, so enough about Conley and all the Conley pictures. I do have two other boys who have things going on in their lives BESIDES a new brother :) Although to be honest, not much more …

Carter played another season of soccer this fall and really did well. And not just because he scored more goals (which he did – 5 on the season. 2 in one game), but because he was always at the front of the pack trying to get the ball. Carter isn’t the most assertive little boy. He’s more of a sheep than a shepherd. He waits to see what others are doing and chimes in, as opposed to making his own wakes for others to follow in. So to see him taking charge and running past others in soccer made me very proud. He was confident and that was the best part. Although, the physical ability he showed for soccer was a nice treat too. His best friend Luke was on the team, and the two of them were super stars and loved every minute of it.

I didn’t have my zoom lens on me at the games. Heck I’m even surprised I remembered a camera since we took Cole and Conley to most games. But this is a photo of Carter scoring his first goal of the season, at the first game. The second game he scored two goals and kept reminding him that it was about having fun NOT the quanitity of goals, because there would come a game when he wouldn’t score any.

Here he is at Chuy's for a celebratory lunch.

Too much partying for Cole, he slept the entire time.

And this is at the last game when Carter scored from mid field. He kicked it so hard, he fell down right after I took this shot. I was watching him to make sure he was okay and didn’t even realize the ball went in the goal.

Last season his favorite position was goalie, but now that he realizes he can run fast and score goals, he doesn't ask to play goalie as often. Though when he does, he's pretty good at it.

They had a party at the end of the season. Here he is with his trophy and certificate.

Cole is doing wonderful in swimming. And that’s great on all levels. It’s about the scheduled activity he can do right now since he’s not three. He REALLY wants to play sports like Carter. I resorted to putting him in the Child Watch section at the YMCA (we’re members) while Carter practiced or during games because Cole would run on the field and join the team. He threw a fit when he couldn’t play. So I keep telling him, he gets to swim right now and he seems to like it. After a long summer of just playing in the pool with Daddy, instead of formal lessons, and taking August off completely because of Conley’s arrival, Cole struggled with floating. But after just two lessons with Ms. Kara (the only teacher more strong willed than Cole), he was make to floating well. Here’s a video from the beginning of October. Now he is learning to use his “big arms” to stroke in between his resting floats.

Our YMCA has a heated pool, but its outdoors. As long as the weather is sunny, I plan on getting in the pool on our “Fun Fridays” – the only day that neither boy is in school. As you can see, the only people other than us are the water aerobic ladies :)

Cole is growing up so fast. He started off the summer with less than 20 words. He now speaks in full sentences, asks “Why” questions, knows how to count to 16, and knows what numbers 1-8 look like. He knows all his colors, and loves to sing songs. He is still hard to understand at times, but in the last two weeks there has been marked improvement. He is a very intelligent little boy, we just didn’t know HOW much because he couldn’t express it. In the last month he has potty trained really well. In fact, after two days he had one accident. Went four days until his next and then went over a week without having another. I’m very proud of him. It didn’t take any bribery at all, just praise. He also no longer takes a nap. Though I do find at least twice a week he’ll fall asleep watching TV during “down time” and/or in the most silliest of situations.

He will frequently sleep with his hands behind his head.

This is his chair at the foot of my bed.

Yep - he's naked. Just came in from playing in the sprinkler and zonked out.

This is during the Texans v Jaguars game and we had several people cheering loudly. Didn't phase him.

The day of the time change. We are still adjusting from that.

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Those were sleeping pictures - now here's what the big boys are up to when they're awake...

I regret having loose cushions on my couch ...

Cole hides in them all-the-time!

We play dress up alot. It's usually super heros, but this time he was a cowboy.

Sometimes accidents happen we play. Here's a picture of Cole's eye the morning after he walked into Carter's back swing of a golf club. Not a plastic one either. A child sized metal Ben Hogan Jr driver. That makes two head injuries in 6 months requiring medical grade glue. Wonder if Sam's carries that ...

At the park. Which we can do alot now that it isn't 1000 degrees outside.

And what would a trip to the park be without Carter posing in the "Cheese Tree" You may recall we call it the Cheese Tree because he climbs in there and says Cheese, thus requiring me to take a photo.

With three kids you'll take whatever one-on-one time you can get. Carter and I stopped for a snack and ICEE at Target after a soccer game. Nice treat for just the two of us.

I had an 8:30 doctors appointment in the med center requiring me to leave with Conley at 7:30, so Brian had to get the kids dressed, fed and to school on time at 9 all alone. He sent me this picture at 8:58. Great job honey!

We really make good use of our zoo membership. Particularly on great weather weekends. We'll try and be the first in line at 9. We've been dozens of times in the past 4 years. Probably 40. And every time we go, the male lion is always - seriously always. Laying down. This morning was different. He looked like he wanted to eat some Shelton boys. I said looks like, because he's actually yawning. But hey, the former makes a better caption.

Never miss a ride on the carousel when we go.

Here's Conley looking on at his brothers while they play in the backyard. Soon enough kid, soon enough ...

The pool has a slide, but they weren't sharing so Brian dragged the play set over.

Then they took turns pushing each other down the red slide.

Like I said, our weather has definitely mellowed. Even requiring a jacket every now and then.

Who says the boys get all the fun. Brian and I took Conley out with us to dinner with some friends in town that Brian went to High School with. Mom was in Colorado with my new nephew Asher so Dad came over and watched the big boys by himself for the first time and did wonderfully.

The other day Brian was mowing the lawn and Carter usually helps him push. Well this time, he went solo for a few laps. Check out his handy work ...

As you can see we stay rather busy and have lots of fun. I definitely have my hands full. The other day I ran a sink full of soap water to wash my chili pot and forgot about it. I got distracted with reading the boys a book. 6 books later and I returned to the kitchen to find this. Thankfully the sink drains to the other sink before it hits my floor ...

Over all I'm not actually that overwhelmed. Having three kids requires patience, which I've learned to aquire. And I've learned I'll probably need 8 arms at least 3 times in a day, but we manage just fine. I clean up a lot of messes. While I don't love cleaning - making messes seems to keep the kids happy while I feed and cater to Conley. I'll be in the nursery putting Conley down and I'll here a huge mess being made in the living room. It takes every ounce of patience, to just sit there and feed Conley calmly and enjoy snuggle time with him. All the while knowing what I have waiting for me "outside." It's generally cars or trucks everywhere. A super hero stash hidden under the area rug or all the cushions thrown around like train tracks. Or the random chalk drawings on my kitchen walls (thank you Magic Eraser for your magic ability to remove almost anything from almost anything). But the other day tops the cake.

Conley was having a particularly hard day in the nap department. Overall he is a wonderful sleeper. He's starting to sleep 6-7 hours at night, wakes for a feeding and sleeps another 3, feeds, then another 2. He'll also nap for 2-3 hours at least once during mid day and several other 1+ hour naps. But you have to catch him before he's over tired. This day he was over tired. I was in the nursery for awhile really trying hard to get him down. I could hear trouble brewing in the playroom, and just shrugged it off.

Well, upon finally getting Conley down, I entered the play room to wet carpet. Carter looked at me as if he knew they were being naughty. I asked where all the water came from. Carter blamed it on Cole (surprise surprise). I found Cole in the bathroom, with a bath play cup. He was filling it up with toilet water, putting the water in his mouth and spitting it on Carter and anywhere else he desired. The toilet water trail went from the playroom through the living room and into the kitchen. I grabbed a towel, cleaned it up and explained to the kids about germs in the toilet. Not much else I could do seeing as pouring germ killing bleach down their throats was not an option. I kept an eye on them for a few days wondering if eColi was going to plaque our house. But I guess I must keep the toilet pretty clean!

Growing up quickly

2011-11-14T19:52:00.001-06:00

Here's a progression of photos of Conley in his favorite bouncy seat (or car seat in a few). We keep him up on the counter so he can see the whole living room and the business that it is. Plus, it keeps him off the ground and out of the way of little kids.

Sept 3rd

Sept 9th

Sept 19th

Oct 5th

Oct 6th

Oct 7th

Oct 11th

Oct 18th

Oct 31st

Nov 2nd

Nov 5th

Three Muskateers

2011-11-14T19:52:00.000-06:00

Carter and Cole just love Conley. They really do. I'm surprised at how little jealousy has really surfaced. And when it does, it's more of a nusance than a real problem. It occurs mostly when I'm feeding Conley and the big boys come over and climb on me like I'm a jungle gym. But all in all, they have adjusted beautifully to having another sibling. So much so, I find that most of the pictures I take of them are when one his holding Conley. Here are few (ok, more than a few) examples. Hey, I'm way behind so I have 8 weeks of photo ops ...

Conley at 10 days old

Conley at 3.5 weeks

5 weeks - before Conley could smile, so the fact that all three are looking at the camera is unbelievable.

6 weeks

Sometimes Conley isn't thrilled about being held by the boys, but they don't care. Carter and Cole still fight to hold him.

8 weeks - he learned to smile at 7 weeks, more to come on that milestone.

If they aren't holding him when he's awake,then they are probably snuggling up with him in his crib while Conley watches his mobile. Conley loves his mobile. He isn't fond of BOTH boys in the crib with him, but will tolerate one, due to space issues. But I try and sneak him off when the big boys aren't paying attention, so that Conley can really enjoy time in there.

Here's a video of him at 8 weeks chewing on his fist. He loves to suck on his hands. I really hope he doesn't become a thumb sucker. Even though we had issues with Cole and the pacifier, I'd MUCH rather him take a paci than his thumb. I can take away the pacifier, not so much with an apendage ...

And a video of Conley in a rare moment of alone time in his crib

Here are pictures of Conley and his mobile. And thus, Carter and Cole watching Conley, watch the mobile.

One is peaceful

Two is cozy

And three is definitely a crowd.

I can trust Carter to snuggle up to Conley and be careful. Cole on the other hand doesn't understand how gentle he needs to be, so he needs close supervision. But when he's in there, or anywhere for that matter, with Conley, he loves to get in his face and talk to him. He really loves his little brother. And I think you can tell Conley loves him back.

Cute smile at 8 weeks.

Here is a video of all three boys playing together on my bed. You can see how Carter can get a little bossy and protective and how Cole likes to get right up in Conley's face. You'll also see Conley smiling.

Newborn Photos

2011-11-14T19:51:00.000-06:00

On day 11 of precious little Conley's life, we had his newborn photos taken. Now some of you think that naked baby photos with handmade hats is silly, but it's the new trend in photographic art. So get on the bandwagon and enjoy these sweet photos of Conley in all his newness.

And this was him asleep in the swing (naked) after a long photo shoot. I tell you what, you have to be a pretty patient person to be a newborn photographer. She was here for three hours. I fed Conley and got him into a deep sleep and she would move one arm and hold it, then a leg and hold it, then another arm or leg and just as she was ready to pose, he'd move. So she'd start all over again. I'm not sure I could do that!

Back to School ... finally

2011-09-06T18:33:00.001-05:00

I say "finally" but actually, I'm glad it started when it did. When all of Carter and Cole's friends went back to school either the week of the 22nd or at latest the 29th, I was really wishing our school followed suit. But since little Conley held out and made a late appearance, it worked out. I'm not sure I could have survived being at home with all three of them for 2 full weeks without any school days. SO, with him arriving in mid-week last week and Brian being home for the long Labor Day weekend, it worked out in the end.

The morning was a busy one to say the least. Not only was it the first day of school for both of them, it was also Conley's (almost) one week check up at the pediatricians. I groaned at the 6:15 wake up call that Cole gave me. But again, in the end, I needed the extra time. I made two lunches, packed two back packs, gave both boys a shower (didn't get one the night before), fed them both, messed with the sprinklers in the back yard (gotta water something every day in this drought), took my own shower, dried my hair and got dressed - WITH make up (well a little) since I wanted to try and get a picture of me with the boys on their first day, took said family pictures, then had to put together the Snap N Go stroller I bought to partner with the Conley's new car seat, got Conley dressed and fed (which for those that don't know or remember, it takes about 40 minutes to nurse a one week old baby), then got everyone in the car and to school on time at 9.

They were both very excited to go to school. Cole was touch and go at the Summer Fun Days at school in June; he cried at drop off and again at pick up. But today he put his lunch box in his cubby and ran right in without so much as looking back at me. Carter, of course, did the same thing.

Then Conley and I went up to the pediatrician's office - they were SO backed up. It's a good thing I really like Dr. Hayes or I would consider switching doctors. But she's worth the drive AND the wait. She said he looked good. His bilirubin levels were high at discharge so thats why she wanted to see him within the week instead of at the standard two weeks. But he never got jaundice and looked great today, so we avoided the nasty heal stick/blood draw. He's gained two extra ounces over his birth weight - he is now 8 pounds 7 ounces. So he's eating well - I should know! We go back next Wednesday for his two week check up where they also do the PKU testing (rule out several diseases). I don't look forward to that.

Conley at the dr office waiting in his seat - yes I know he's unbuckled ...

We were at the doctors office so long I didn't have time to eat lunch just me and Conley. Well, not like I had planned. I grabbed a salad in the to-go line at Chili's and ate in the parking lot of school while he slept. I have a feeling I might be doing that more that I think ...

Carter and Cole had a great day at school. Carter drew this picture of his family - notice what's missing? No, it's not the baby. It's Cole! He didn't realize it until he was telling me who every one is. He was also upset to see that he had forgotten to draw himself some arms. He plans on finishing the drawing eventually. I'm also a little discouraged to see that I have hair on top of my head AND all around it. Hmmm.

For a special first day of school treat I took them to Baskin Robbins for some ice cream. They pick the craziest concoctions ... Cole's is blue/green/purple sherbet. Yuck.

The weekend before school started our church had a Back to School Blast with games, rides, etc. It was 107 degrees outside and it was in a parking lot. But we all had fun.

The spinning tea cups. The boys wanted me to ride with them. I was still pregnant, so there was no way my belly was fitting in the seat. Plus, I probably would have given the poor child brain damage for how fast they were going...

Hot dogs and face painting.

Leading up to eventually giving birth, Brian took some time off and spent it with the boys. They went to Chuck E Cheese, Bunch of Fun, the park, the pool - you name it. And I walked. And walked. And walked some more. Really hoping I'd go into labor on my own. One day I could take the 105+ temperatures no more so we went to the mall and walked. Here are the boys and Brian riding the train while I - you guessed it - walked...

I like this picture, not because it's cute but because of what Cole was doing. He's sitting on Mom and Dad's couch watching Dora - using binoculars. They have a 47" flat screen not 15 feet away. He's such a guy ...

Shelton - Party of 5

2011-09-05T15:07:00.000-05:00

He's here! Conley Joseph Shelton arrived on August 31, 2011 at 2:14 in the afternoon. He was officially 19" long (but he wouldn't stretch his legs out, so we're thinking he's a little taller) and weighed 8 pounds 5.2 ounces. He was almost 2 pounds heavier than both of the boys, but still seems as tiny as can be. He is absolutely perfect and simply adorable. He really resembles a beautiful mix of the boys. He's definitely a Shelton Sibling.

We were waiting on him for several weeks, assuming he was going to arrive a little early - seeing he's my third baby in 4.5 years. But after being 10 days over due, we decided it was time for him to meet the world. Carter and Cole spent the night with Grandma and Grandpa on Tuesday the 30th so Brian and I could have a nice quiet evening just the two of us. We went out to Carrabba's for dinner and had a great time. The midwife had "instructed" me to relax that evening and even have a glass of wine. Didn't have to hear that twice, so me and the 6 ounces of Malbec had a long love affair through dinner. We had a good nights sleep, or should I say half a nights sleep. We got up at 4:15 so we could leave at 5:15 to get to the hospital at 6 for the induction.

I guess I should put a WARNING on here. If you are queezy or don't like reading details about giving birth - stop reading and just scroll down to the pictures. I promise I won't post any "compromising pictures" - I would have killed Mom if she even took them.

After signing our lives away - both legally and financially - they hooked me up to the monitor for an hour to see how he was doing and if I was having any contractions. Well I was, every 6-8 minutes. Oh! So that's what that pressure and tightness I was feeling was! I honestly didn't think much of it, they weren't painful - just uncomfortable. I really thought it was just him pushing up on random organs and my bladder. I was induced with Carter and Cole as well, and had never experienced a "natural contraction." SO because I was having my own contractions and already dilated 3 cm, I didn't have to have any of the cervical gel or anything to get me ready; I could go straight to Pitocin.

So around 8:30 they started me on the Pitocin. Mom and Dad still had the boys, but were dropping them off at our house so my WONDERFUL friends could watch them while Mom and Dad could be up at the hospital. Julie and Joanna came over around 9:30 to watch the boys for a few hours. Here they are with Claire eating a cake pop from Starbucks (thank you Julie) to celebrate Baby Shelton #3's potential birthday.

Around 11:45, the midwife broke my water since I was in a good pattern of contractions, but was still only 3 cm. Conley had a few decels in his heart rate during the contractions, they'd come back up - but since the contractions were close together they were concerned that might be an issue. So they did an amnio infusion where they put fluid back up into the uterus to give him some cushion. They presumed he was putting pressure on his cord. It did help with his heart rate. Though I also had to be on my side, which was not comfortable. It was the only way he'd "cooperate." So a momma does what a momma has to do for her baby.

At 1:30 she checked me and I was finally fully effaced, but only 4 cm. The contractions were very strong and very close together. I was tempted with doing the epidural, but held out. She told me she thought I'd be pushing soon. Well, she was right - barely 30 minutes later I started pushing and he was born at 2:14. As it turns out, his umblical cord was short. They presume thats probably why he wouldn't come down and I was past my due date, his cord just wasn't long enough. Fortunately I labor quickly and as soon as he came down, he was out and we didn't have any cord compression issues they thought we might.

Like I said, he was almost 2 pounds heavier than the boys. But honestly, the recovery has been MUCH easier with him. My midwife was wonderful in making sure I didn't tear anything. And that's all I'll say about that :)

Proud Papa

Alert and ready to meet everyone

Grandpa was in the waiting room as pale as a ghost waiting to hear how we were doing. He was glad when we were all cleaned up and ready to show Conley off.

Grandma, the photographer, finally found someone to take HER picture with her grandson.

My other WONDERFUL friend Jen, had met Julie and Joanna at my house at 1:30 to pick up the boys. She then picked up her son at school (which by the way, was all Carter could talk about the day before), and then she brought them up to the hospital to see us. She had plans to take them back to her house and play, but Conley made an early appearance.

I was VERY excited to get to see my boys walk through the door.

Carter checking out Conley

Cole isn't sure what's going on

But he got up and gave Conley a kiss.

Getting weighed

Once we got upstairs to post partum, the nurse came in and gave him is official first bath. He didn't much like it. He really reminds me of Carter when he cries like that. Check out the picture below this one of Carter's first bath at home ...

And Daddy getting the first diaper change. You'll notice the deck of cards on the table. Brian and I didn't know what else to do with all our time since we didn't have the boys with us. We played a lot of Gin Rummy.

Carter showing his new brother his new toy that Ms. Jen gave him.

Carter LOVES to hold Conley.

One of the things St. Luke's likes to do is keep the baby in the room with the parents at all times. So the bath, the shots, medicine, exam, etc is all done in room. The audiologist came in to do his hearing test and even let Carter help hold the machine. Right after this picture, it got quite tense in the room. He didn't pass his initial exam. This is the one where they put the probes in his ears and measure something. Well, they normally like to do the exam closer to 48 hours, to give time to get any fluid/junk out of his ears. They did this one at 24 hours so that we could go home that night (Thursday, not the same day I delivered). SO, apparently he still had stuff in his ears blocking the transmission because they did a second, more technical, test and he passed. At that point, I was wishing they DIDN'T do exams in the room, because it was very unnerving sitting there for 15 minutes thinking my child couldn't hear. Had they done all that in the nursery, I would never have known nor worried.

Lights out for an afternoon nap.

Sure is cozy on Mommy's chest.

I have LOTS of pictures of Carter holding Conley. He wants to do it all the time.

On Friday, Grandmama came over for dinner. She had to share holding time with Carter. He was not happy about sharing. She'd hold him for a few minutes and Carter would start complaining that her turn was longer than his. We'd try and explain that she doesn't live here and she doesn't get to hold him all the time, and it's her birthday, and yada yada yada - none of it was working on him. He didn't care what the reason was, he wanted to hold his baby!

First bath at home. Still doesn't like it.

Snuggled up in the bouncy seat .

It took Cole a couple days to finally ask to hold Conley. He has done really well with the new addition. They both are very sweet to him and are transitioning well. It's been a long holiday weekend, and we've tried to stay busy. If we don't, we create a huge mess at home and we are all too tired to clean it up. The boys are wanting some individual attention, which is normal and expected, but over all are doing much better than I anticipated.

I hesitated getting the swing out, it could only bring disaster. I imagine the boys swinging Conley to the ceiling. But again, they're are doing well. So Conley is getting in some zzz's.

Again, the proud big brother.

All dressed up and hooked into the car seat before church on Sunday. First service at 4 days old - go Conley! He did great. He slept through the loud praise and worship music for the first 20 minutes of service and woke up when the sermon started :) But they have a Mother's Room, were I can take and nurse him and still hear/see the service.

That concludes the picture deluge. There will be more to come. I'm trying to keep the camera out on the counter, so I can take lots of pictures. But we've definitely had our hands full this weekend. I'm looking forward to school starting tomorrow so the big boys can get on a routine and I can get a little more rest while they're gone. And most of all get some bonding/snuggling time with Conley. He's just precious.

I know I have lots of phone calls and emails to return - I'll get to them. I appreciate all the check-ins, but my down time is few and far between so if I don't return your call promptly it isn't because I don't care. It's because I'm trying to take a nap when I can :) I've never had to do that before!

Still a family of four

2011-08-29T18:52:00.000-05:00

While I know I won't be pregnant forever - there are times it sure does feel like it! I'm 8 days past my due date and I'm okay with it. I've jokingly said that this little boy must be scared to come out and meet his lively brothers. They are excited to meet him, just as everyone else I know is - I'm sure! If he doesn't make an appearance by Wednesday morning, we are going to have to evict him. And while I wasn't wanting to do that, the more I think about it - the more okay I'm getting with it.

So for now we continue on as a family four and what better way to do that, than memorialize it with some family pictures. These were taken last month, and I was 37 weeks. It was hot, but fortunately we did it in the morning before we turned into REALLY sweaty pigs. Carter was an absolute ham and Cole just wanted to play (hence more pics of Carter than Cole). The photographer will be doing some newborn shots of the baby - once he's HERE - and we might try to get a few more of Cole, but we'll see.

I was happy with the ones we got. And honestly, the less to choose from means my wallet will be a lot happier and my walls won't be so crowded :) I mean, with two cute kids (and another one around the corner) I'm running out of room to put pictures of them!

Top 10 Reasons Why Pregnancy is Wonderful

2011-08-21T20:07:00.000-05:00

As I sit here on the eve of my due date with no sight of actually delivering tomorrow I feel the need to remind myself of the joys of being pregnant. With the driest, hottest summer on record it's all too easy to get in complaining mode. I'm not going to do that. I'm going to be the positive, cheerful person I am and write my "Top 10 Reasons Why Pregnancy is Wonderful" list.

10. I don't have to suck my stomach in when I wear tight clothes.
9. Generally speaking, people will hold the door open for me when going through. Generally speaking.
8. My nails are long and strong and my hair doesn't have split ends.
7. I get to have the last word in the "who is more tired/sore/etc" contest
6. I don't have to share this baby with anyone else. He's all mine for now. I feel his every kick, punch, hiccip or sommersault and can enjoy it all to myself.
5. I get to have seconds and thirds of meals and no one bats an eye.
4. I step on a scale and not scolded when I gain weight.
3. I get to freak out Brian when my stomach jumps at night and looks lopsided.
2. I'm giving Carter and Cole another playmate.
1. I'm growing another miracle inside of me - and I need to remember that when I can't sleep, bend over, make an hour without peeing, fit my wedding ring on, or take a deeep breath. This baby boy is a gift from God and all the little inconveniences need to be reminders of the special blessing we are about to receive.

Please keep us in your prayers as we make it through the next few days or week even waiting for this little guy. Ask God to keep me and baby healthy, for calm and peace for Brian has he coaches me through delivery, for wisdom from the doctors and medical staff, and for patience and understanding from Carter and Cole as they learn to have another sibling to share us with.

Blessings be abundant!

Getting ready for baby

2011-08-17T20:22:00.002-05:00

Well as I type this I am 39.5 weeks pregnant - just days away from my due date. To say I'm ready for this baby to arrive is an understatement. I know I've said this and blogged this many MANY times - but holy cow, why am I 9 months pregnant in Texas during the hottest driest summer on record. Seriously? I don't remember praying for perseverance God. Nor patience, so tell this little guy to hurry up.

We've been in Baby Preperation Mode for a couple weeks now. The new car seat arrived and was a huge hit for the boys to watch TV in for a few days. We have installed it in the car now, and can officially fit three seats across the back. Thus buying time before we need to buy another car (particularly since we just got Brian one less than a year ago!) and mine is in great shape.

The hospital had a Sibling Class that Brian and I took Carter too. Mom and Dad spent the Saturday afternoon with Cole. Carter got to learn how to diaper a baby and swaddle them. As well as what size toys were age appropriate. They colored a toilet paper tube and Carter tests things around the house to see if they are okay for the baby. If it fits in the tube, he can't have it. If it doesn't fit it's "Baby Safe" as he says. It was a great class. We took a tour of the hospital afterwards and he got to see the nursery and a few newborns in there. He was excited to see one was actually moving, it was cute.

We had my shower a few weeks and one of our gifts was a gift card, always the right size :) We took the boys the next day to Babies-R-Us for them to pick out some toys for the new baby. We needed a new activity mat/play gym for the floor. Somethings just don't make it the third time around. The boys loved setting it up and now playing under it. I had to hide it so they'd stop playing with it. Same goes with the mobile I put up the other day. Cole wants to play in the crib now, it's ridiculous.

I've had a very healthy pregnancy and this little boy is doing just great. He gets the hiccups alot and moves like crazy when I drink cold water. He doesn't move much during the day, as my constant movements lull him to sleep. But as soon as I sit down or lay down for bed, he starts rockin' and rollin'. We haven't decided on a name yet. I'm sure it will start with C. In fact, I've started calling him C3PO - since he's the third C, and we've been watching some Star Wars lately with Carter. We may have to take the baby book up to the hospital with us, who knows. But I have a feeling something will feel right when we meet him - that's how it was with Carter and Cole.

I've been "nesting" lately and trying to cross off my long to-do list. I ordered 757 pictures from last October through last week for my photo albums. And this is my last blog to conclude my big backlog of summer updates. I've organized the boys' rooms, I've organized the nursery. My bags are packed and already in the car. I've cleaned out the linen closet, pantry, spice cabinet, refrigerator and laundry room. The baby has a packed bag in the car as well, so I think we're pretty ready. Well, except for name thing I mentioned. But other than that - bring on Baby Boy Shelton #3.

Fun around the house

2011-08-17T20:22:00.001-05:00

It's blurry - but check out my car thermometer from the other day. Yep - at 2:20 on Aug 5th it was 109 degrees. I know there are parts of the country that are hotter and maybe drier than we are, but I don't know anyone who is 9 months pregnant and chasing two small kids around in this repressive heat. So, hey, I win the misery contest.

But just because the weather is miserable, doesn't mean we don't find ways to have fun around here. A few weeks ago my friend Julie and I spent the better part of the kids naptime (our free time) filling up water balloons. It took me 2 hours of sitting at the sink to fill up 70 something balloons, and she was just as "productive." Her kids came over and mine waited patiently staring at the water balloons until their friends arrived. It took less than 7 minutes to extinguish our entire lot of balloons. The kids had a blast, but Julie and I looked at each other and said "Really - all that work and it's over in minutes." Next time, we learned, we don't set out the entire bucket of balloons. We will dole them out one at time so they can learn to savour the moment. That was the middle of July, we haven't done this again. Not sure if we plan too ...

One of the boys' favorite activities to do with Brian is a Monster Truck Rally. Brian yells "Lets 'em up" and the boys come running with their big climbing blocks and 30+ Monster Jam trucks. This addiction started back in February when Brian took him to see an exhibition at Reliant. We're waiting for them to come back next year. In the mean time, they make their own competition of racing and freestyle moves.

We are also doing lots of crafts. This is Carter's tin foil hat with feathers, pipe cleaners and Star Wars stickers. He was very proud. Not sure what it's for, but it was fun nonetheless.

One recent Friday night Brian went to a lot of trouble to get this tent up in the backyard for the boys to camp out in. They watched a movie with the portable DVD player and then star gazed. The red ICEE popsicles were quite a mess, and thus made them come in for a bath. They didn't make it back outside that night, but have plans to return when it's cooler.

Cole is a big banana eater. Nothing special to say other than I think he's just the cutest 2 year old ever.

We spend alot of time at Mom and Dad's pool. The two big contributors to the fun factor - contained children and shade - which means I don't have to chase them around a public pool NOR do I have to lather on the sunscreen. They like jumping off the rocks.

Cole got up early one morning and came and snuggled in our bed. He slept until 8:30 this way, I guess the pillow over his eyes blocked out the daylight. Brian does the same thing.

You'd think that in a drought our grass wouldn't need mowing so often, but I water pretty frequently. Which means Brian has to get out there and mow it. Carter LOVES to help, it's one of his favorite things to do. On yard duty days, I can get him to cooperate so well by using that as a bargaining chip. Hey Carter, if you take a nap you can mow the lawn. Hey Carter, if you share/eat your lunch/pick up your toys/etc - you can mow with Daddy tonight. Yet another reason I keep the yard looking nice - it's a great bribery tool in my arsenol of parenting skills :)

I used to help out with the trimming/edging and blowing while Brian mowed. But I just can't anymore. Too hard on my body. I'm anxious to have the baby so I can get my trimmer duties back - I'm a little picky about how I do my yard, but when Brian does it all I can't complain.

Brian had a great idea last weekend. We took the boys to their first Astros game. It was a Sunday afternoon game and they had bounce houses, face painting, balloon animals, wax hands and other fun stuff in the lobby of the stadium for all the kids. PLUS, if you bought an adult ticket, your kid ticket was free. While we only spent $14 for entry - I think we spent another $40 on food and foam fingers. But hey, we had a great time.

Here is Carter doing his wax hand. The hand crumbled before we got home so I have no picture of it.

We were up high, but it didn't matter to the boys. Glad I didn't pay for close seats. We got there two hours before start time to do all the free family activities, that they were so exhausted and ready to leave by the third inning.

And proof that Cole was there. He just wanted to eat ice cream and play with my iPhone after awhile. Speaking of iPhones. At one point my phone jammed up and Cole got frustrated that his game stopped working that he threw it down over the balcony. Fortunatley it wasn't from the 300 to the 200 section. It was 400 to 300, which is only 10 feet down. It survived thanks to my $50 Otterbox. It was painful purchasing it (at the time), but has saved me on many MANY occasion. So lesson to all you iPhone users, if there is a child nearby (or if you're like me and drop it sometimes), spend the extra cash for the Otterbox Defender case - it's worth it!

Baseball, Bible School, Baby Showers, and Birthday Parties

2011-08-17T20:22:00.000-05:00

Baseball season is over and I don't think I ever posted any pictures. Partly because my hands were always full. No one volunteered to coach the team, so on the first day of practice Brian stepped up. And coaching baseball to 4 and 5 year olds is not just a one person job. So I too stepped in and helped out. The beginning of the season was a lot easier, but as the weather got warmer and I got bigger - I was just wishing it was over. Cole wanted so badly to play, so I had to put him in the child watch section at the Y during games and practices or have Mom watch him at her house. Finally on the last game I let him sit on the bench with the big kids. He just doesn't like to be left out.

Some of the kids at the after party at Clay's.

Red cheeks and bushy hair. After seeing this picture, they cooled off and I took them for hair cuts the next day!

A video of Carter hitting the ball at his last game.

During the month of June, Carter went to two Vacation Bible Schools. He loved them. We bought the PandaMania CD and listen to it alot. Cole is too young to go, but he enjoys the music. He would throw a fit when I'd drop off Carter and he couldn't stay. Poor kid is learning the age gap at a small age. This summer was full of things (VBS, gymnastic camps, Parents Day Out camps, etc) that Cole wasn't old enough for, but next year when he's 3 he'll be right in the mix!

Here are some photos of him having fun while celebrating God.

Allison's shower was at the end of June. I was excited to see my pregnancy partner, she's just four weeks behind me. And Matthew is such a good doting husband. They'll make great parents. We celebrated them at a shower at Pappadeaux's that her two sisters and I hosted. It was nice to see out of town family come in as well. Babies are always a reason to celebrate. Mom made her a gorgeous diaper cake for the shower. Alli hesitated taking it apart to ship it, but Mom fit it in the same box as the Moses Basket she got for them. So it worked out.

My baby shower was at the end of July and I gotta tell you, my friends really outdid themselves. I know I have fantastic friends that are generous, crafty, sweet and great hostesses - but since I'm having my third boy - I was really underplaying the shower thing. Well they didn't. They made me, and thus this baby, feel so special. And all the attendees showered me with wonderful gifts, sweet stories and lots of praise for mothering skills. I had a great day.

Here are the cake balls that Kelly brought for dessert. Very good - the vanilla was my favorite, so creamy.

The spread of food. And it was just as yummy as it was pretty.

My sweet sweet hostesses. Kelly, Julie, me and Jennifer.

Oreo truffles that Julie made for people to take home. She single handedly made me gain 3 pounds that week. My biggest gain the entire pregnancy.

My own diaper cake :)

Cute clothes as decorations.

More clothes

I liked how Jen displayed the invitation - so creative.

Invitation up close

We also had a few birthdays this summer (tends to happen when you don't blog for months). While I was at Alli's shower, Brian took the boys to Caroline's birthday (she turned 3 and is Carter's best friend Luke's sister) at Cypress Academy. All my friends love Brian, why wouldn't they, and he enjoyed their company as well. We might have to start switching birthday party duty now that I know he can handle both of them and the chaos of a birthday party!

Julie sent me a cute picture of Carter and Luke.

And Carter's other best bud had a birthday in July. Jacob turned 5 and had his party at Westwood Gymnastics. The boys love the gym parties - as do I, less chasing around.

Here are the two friends "hanging out"

Look at those red cheeks, man was he wore out after this party. He just played and played the entire time. In fact, I had to corral him into eating cake and pizza, he just wanted to play.

My friend Carlin had her son's 1st birthday party last month as well. We were running early to the party (as I usually do) after some errands so I took the boys to Crave Cupcakes. Who takes their kids to a cupcake bakery BEFORE a birthday - well, a pregnant woman who really wanted one of their delicious White Chocolate Macadamia Nut cupcakes. They're in the Galleria and I don't get to indulge often enough, so when we were nearby I just couldn't resist.

At the party swinging each other.

More cake.

And a more cake from a silly boy

Brady, the birthday boy.

Beating the Heat

2011-08-17T20:21:00.001-05:00

I know most of the country has been hot lately - but geez, it's just miserable down here. We've been hitting the pool, splashpads and water activities alot. But now that triple digits and no rain are the constant, we're also finding other ways to cool off.

Here's Carter at Mom and Dad's pool jumping off the waterfall. The name of this jump is "Twin Peaks." Notice, he has two feet on two seperate rocks. Brian and the boys have named all the different rocks/sections of where they jump. The boys LOVE jumping off the rocks, they'll race back to the top and make me a nervous wreck climbing up on them to beat the other.

Uncle Ian and Uncle Parker (my cousins) were in town in June and went swimming with the boys.

Watching the iPad after swimming. You know, Cole at 2 1/2 can navigate the iPad better than some adults. It's ridiculous.

One of our favorite cool spots is the Noah's Ark pool at a Methodist Church in town. I like that there is plenty of shade for me to sit in and watch them play. This part of the pool is only a foot-ish deep so I can rest my feet instead of chasing them around a pool.

Behind the Noahs' Ark pool is a regular pool and diving board. Carter would much rather hang out by the diving board, but Cole hates to just sit and watch and they won't let me swim out and catch him. So when I go by myself, Carter just gets a few jumps at a time.

Brian and I, along with Mom, took the boys to Copperfield Bowl - the same place I grew up bowling at. They LOVED it. I was afraid Cole would just run up and down the bowling alley and not play, but it was quite the opposite. He wouldn't stop bowling. So much so Mom went up and paid for another lane for him to bowl alone. He just kept bowling. They put the bumpers up for the kids and they had a blast.

The "Fro-Yo" craze has hit Houston and now the boys love going to get Frozen Yogurt as treats after dinner. Not nightly, but not infrequently either :) It's self serve, which is Carter's dream come true. He picks out his flavor (always strawberry) and then puts whatever toppings he wants on it. Usually M&Ms or Sour Gummi Worms. Then they weigh it and you pay by the ounce. It's a lot cheaper than ice cream and better for me, so that's how I justify the "not infrequent" visits ...

Shame on me

2011-08-17T20:21:00.000-05:00

I know, I know - you've heard it before. You know, the line that I feed that says I've just been so busy and haven't had time to blog. Well that's kinda true and kinda NOT true. I started a couple posts at the end of June and then got distracted and forgot. Then I got selfish with the little time I had when both boys were occupied and then I just plain procrastinated. I hate when I wait this long to update the blog, because then it's just a pain and I leave out all kinds of cute details. But since I'm having a baby in the next 12 days (well, gosh I hope so - my due date is in 12 days) I figured I'd better publish the few posts I've started and update on the summer before I have to post newborn pictures!

So this is my shame on me post. But I guess I could get a pardon and use the old "Hey, I'm a pregnant mom of 2 young boys that keep me busy." Nah, we all know I just sit around do nothing all day, right? ...

Update - I started this post last week, more procrastinating I know. So my due date is actually 4 days away ... Here come the blog updates ...

Ready or not, here comes summer

2011-05-26T21:06:00.000-05:00

May crept up on me and surprised me, and now it's practically gone. Never ceases to amaze me at how fast time literally flies by. The boys and I have been keeping very busy, but mostly with fun stuff. Brian has been busy at work. He completed his second trial in 3 months. It's very rare he takes a case all the way to trial, but this seems to be the year for it. It's not like Law and Order when a case goes to trial and the witness still has bruises from her attacker :) It's years and years of filings and such and generally a summary judgement or settlement is achieved. We aren't used to having him gone for several days at a time, but as long as I keep the kids busy - time flies and he's home before we know it.

Our neighborhood pool isn't open but we seem to always find a cool place to get wet. Here the boys are at the YMCA. Leave it to boys to figure out how to turn a splash park into what looks like a giant stream of pee. So proud...

Here they are naked in the backyard. I think this is sweet. Carter has his hand around Cole's shoulder. He's showing him the flowers and trying to tell him which one is what color.

We still go to swim class weekly (Cole goes twice a week). Carter is doing beautifully. He has the freestyle down (it's not as pretty as an olympic swimmer or anything, but pretty darn good for a 4 year old). And now he's working on learning the backstroke. He was promoted to Swordfish at the beginning of May and has already acheived 60% of the goals the have listed. Cole is making great strides as well. Poor kid has huge fins to fill, as I say. He has been struggling, or shall I say fighting lately. He's so strong willed. Fortunately he's paired up with the director who is his instructor and is as strong willed as he is. We had a breakthrough a couple weeks ago and he will now finally float without kicking and splashing and screaming. He's even turning from back to front and vice versa to traverse the pool like he's supposed to. His favorite thing is to dive for rings on the bottom of the pool. Here's a video of him from May 11. This was just a few days after he stopped fighting his teacher. We've made a lot of progress since then as well. Though, he likes to hold the hair on his head with his left hand. He refuses to let go while he's floating. Hey, right now - I'm just glad he's floating and learning to swim. As opposed to sinking to the bottom of the pool! Pardon the fuzziness, it's through a two-sided mirror.

Carter's last day of preschool was on the 14th. They had a Super Summer Send Off Party. I was in charge of collecting money and getting the teacher gifts this year. I made a gift card bouquet with some potted Gerber Daisies. They turned out cute.

Sno cones for snack.

They are doing the Congo dance. Look how tall Carter is compared to the other kids in his class. I wasn't joking last time I posted about that. He's the one in the navy and white striped swim suit and matching swim shirt.

Here they are pretending to ride surf boards. Carter has his hands in a "hang ten" formation and he yelled Cowabunga.

Going down the water slide.

It appears he's yelling, but actually he was so excited. They were having water gun fights in the play ground. That is shaving cream on his head - his teacher did that to several of the kiddos.

The homemade "Bear Creek Kid Wash" - very cute idea. Water was squirting out from all the pipes. Clever.

Two days after the end of school, we started our vacation to Indiana to see family. While I hate putting it like this since it's family, but we "killed two birds with one stone." Brian's family is up there in Indianapolis and my twin cousins were graduating from Notre Dame just 120 miles north of Brian's parents house. So, we went up there for a week a took a day to celebrate Ian and Parker graduating from the business school.

We normally drive when we go up there. It is roughly 1000 miles and takes us 18+ hours which we do in one day. One very long day. We had plans to drive again, but a good airfare fell my lap and we couldn' t resist. The last time either of us had flown was when Carter was 8 months old. And Cole has never flown. Leading up to the flight was rather anxiety producing for me. We aren't regular fliers and were flying on an airline we weren't frequent flier members of. So we were going to have to pay to have our bags checked. $50 per bag round trip. And since you can't have any liquids on the plane, I had to check all our toiletries which take up space. We ended up checking two car seats (for free thankfully), two big bags, and we carried on Brian's work computer and 3 smaller bags - plus we lugged around the kiddos throughout the airport! To say we had our hands full is an understatement. I got this shot of Carter laying on his carry on bag that Brian was pulling. But it wasn't the shot I wanted. Carter had been pulling it through the airport with Cole laying on it. It was hilarious. But by the time I got the camera out, the scene had changed and the shot was blurry anyway. But it gives you an idea of what was happening.

Here's Cole eating some of the bribery candy I had reserved for the plane ride.

As it turns out, I didn't need much bribery. I bought a few new sticker books, brought the DVD player and our iPhones made for great entertainment as well. They were WONDERFUL on the first flight (2ish hours).

The only mishap was on the second, short flight. Cole fell asleep with only 20 minutes left on the flight and his seat was leaned back. The flight attendant made me move it up for landing and it woke him up. He was madder than a hornet. He wanted so badly to fall back asleep, but just couldn't get comfortable. So he cried. The rest of the 10 minutes until we got off the plane. Coulda been alot worse.

We arrived in Indy to a cool 57 degree day and I worried we had under dressed for the week. It warmed up to the mid-80s and turned out to be beautiful in my book. Here is a picture of Carter with PeePa on his new riding mower. He loved it. I think they only thing that could make mowing the lawn better in Carter's book (his favorite weekend activity with Brian) is to do it on a tractor like apparatus. Lucky kid. It reminds me of when I was young and got to ride in Grandpa's lap on the land in his John Deere tractor.

On Sunday we drove up to South Bend to celebrate Ian and Parker graduating. I didn't get a picture of them walking down the isle, nor walking across the stage. As you can see, Brian and I had our hands full. Poor guys were so tired from a week with Nan and Pee Pa that they fell asleep. And they slept through the whole ceremony, screams and all!

I wanted a picture of the graduates together, but for some reason I got this one instead. Future ND graduates possibly ...

My camera went on the fritz for the rest of the evening. Bummer. I'll have to get some photos from Sissy and Ruppert. They had a nice celebration at a local Italian place after commencement. Nana and Papa came from Abilene as well. Mom and Dad drove from Houston. Erica and Jake came from St. Louis - and congrats to Erica by the way. Or should I say Dr. Erica - she walked on Thursday and received her PhD. We couldn't go to that, but everyone else did. It was nice to see everyone, but the boys kept us busy. So we barely got to catch up. Hey, I'll take what I can get.

We had some good food in Indy. Size seems to be a good descriptor. We cooked the biggest steaks I've ever seen - ribeyes almost 2 inches thick. And Nan found these ginormous marshmallows to make smores with. This is a half eaten marshmallow of Cole's - no joke.

No campfire - no problem. We'll use the propane grill. Here the boys are with Aunt Barb and the Weber grill.

Yum!

And the plane rides home went mostly well. Nan bought the boys some pillow pals. Woody for Cole and Spiderman for Carter. They love them. And you'll notice, Carter refuses to take a picture without his tongue sticking out. I can't imagine what it's going to be like getting three boys to look into the camera.

We barely made our connecting flight in Detroit. We flew into gate C-34 - the end of terminal C. And had to fly out of gate A-75 the very end of a different terminal. Lugging 4 carry ons, two pillows, two kids and a full bladder - oh, yeah, being almost 7 months pregnant doesn't help either - across the Detroit airport in under 25 minutes is rather frustrating. But we got on just in time and made it home safely.

We are going to take it easy for a week and play catch up around the house. The long Memorial Day weekend is going to be nice. We wanted to go up to Austin and check out Mom and Dad's retirement house, their making great progress. But I think we'll stick close to home for a while.

While uploading some pictures, I came across a video and picture of our mini-vacation in March to San Antonio. Here are the boys laying the in the pack-n-play during quiet time.

And a video of Carter bull riding at a street fair in Market Square.

Lastly, I end with an update on the baby. All is well. Chugging along. I'm a few days shy of 28 weeks and can't believe August will be here so soon. I haven't been sleeping all that well, but I'm getting used to it. We'll probably move the boys into one room this weekend. The bunk beds arrived and they're a big hit. Carter calls it their "bunker bed" and tells me that he likes sleeping on the "top shelf". Once we get Cole moved over I can reset the nursery and organize some closets.

Carter is excited about having a baby in the family. He prays for him most nights at bedtime, as well as some random other things like ceiling fans, monster trucks, and Cole's pacifiers that we don't use anymore. But the baby does get thought of often.. The other day we were talking about what a great family we have. I said we have a nice big family "with Daddy, Cole, Carter" He interupted with "Mommy and the baby". I added "Shiner" (our cat) and he promptly said "And God, you can't forget God. He's in our family too." Yes, sweetie - he is. I love my family.

May? Really? Impossible, for so many reasons.

2011-05-10T12:50:00.000-05:00

I can't believe it is already May. At first I was in disbelief. We started off the month with a gorgeous spell of great weather. It was actually in the upper 40s in the morning and high in the upper 60s, maybe low 70s on days and a decent breeze, coupled with loads of sunshine. We were outside every day soaking it up while we could. That's just unheard of for May in Houston. And now I'm in serious denial about this for a number of reasons. This means school is about to let out, the heat is coming, and the new baby will arrive THIS season. Goodness!

Time is flying by for me. And I know that sounds cliche, but this year has been an absolute blur and I'm sure the summer will be the same way. We have end of the year stuff going on at Carter's school and last week it was a Mother's Tea. I had the best time that afternoon. The moms walked through the doors listening to the kids serenade us with sweet songs, then he showed me to my table, with my specific place setting.

Close up of my place mat. That's my hand print, we did it one morning last month - just didn't know what it was for. When I arrived to school that morning, his teacher said "Tera, can you come in the class room for a moment?" I felt like I was back in grade school myself and being called to the principal's office, as if I or my child had done something wrong. But no, it was just an art project :) Glad my child is still perfect :)

The teachers had made some appetizers and brought tea and lemonade to drink. The kids served us up whatever they thought we'd like. Carter put one of everything, and when I would ask for more tortilla roll ups, or more canteloupe he'd bring me ONE more. Guess he thinks I need to watch my caloric intake. After the moms got what they wanted the kids were allowed to partake. Though, Carter kept insisting everything was for the mommies. All the kids were hesitant to eat or drink anything. I think their teacher must have drilled it into their heads that they were to cater to us that day.

Like on Dad's Night, the teachers had asked the kids questions about their mom beforehand. I'm shocked by two things, my age - seriously 42? That's Brian's age! And when they asked him old Brian was, he told them 24. This isn't fair. The second thing that isn't "true" is that I go to the gym. I think he over heard another child say that, there were lots of repeat answers. We do go to the Y and I'll get on the treadmill for a little bit, but he doesn't know that. He thinks we go to the Y to swim! And yes, his favorite think to eat IS meat.

This is my plant he made and painted the pot. It's his handprints with some tissue paper. The back side says "From your budding blossom, Carter".

Carter loves to paint. Which means, so does Cole. They are so darn messy. Thankfully it's completely washable so I don't make too many restrictions. He loves to paint his hand and make handprints, and I generally don't mind. But the other day I watched as Carter turned it into full body paint. He painted his entire arms red and orange and started calling himself "Fire Man." (this is a shot of the beginning stages of the mess). He refuses to quit painting as long there is still white on the paper. I'll ask him if he wants another piece of paper, and his answer is "No, there still some space over here." He paints lots of dark scary forests. Thats the theme lately. I mean, what else could a big green and brown blob of paint be, right?

Cole imitating his brother.

I found some cheap easels at Hobby Lobby the other day. It helps with the mess, sort of. And yes, we always paint naked, or as close as possible. Makes the clean up easy - stick them outside and hose 'em off.

I've done some painting lately. I went out for a girls night with my friend Julie and her mom's group. We had fun. I'm too mathematical to be a good painter, because when they say "about the middle" I want to know exactly where and how long is my brush stroke. We had a great time though.

Some mornings I'll take the boys to a donut shop down the street whose owner is also a mom of one of the kids at preschool. She knows exactly what we want and has it ready when we are walking in the door. The boys love pink iced donuts with sprinkles. I'm a spicy sausage kolache fan. But the best part is it's $4 and I didn't have to make breakfast!

I have a video of the boys playing at a local gym, doing an obstacle course we made but I'm so behind on blogging and organizing my pictures and printing them and putting them in albums and several other projects that I don't have the time nor energy to post all the cute videos right now. So this picture will have to do.

This picture is what happened yesterday when I sat down to the computer to upload somethings to the blog. THIS is why I get behind. I can only do time consuming projects when they're gone or asleep. And lately, I've got too many things on that list during the short time they give me. One of those is rest. I've been a little tired lately. Yes it's because I'm pregnant, but it's also because we're staying busy and my list of projects is getting longer, i.e. the boys rooms switched, organizing/making room in their closets, getting ready for baby boy #3, etc.

They dumped out 3 or 4 different buckets of toys, all the couch pillows and stripped down naked. Oh boys.

I'm looking forward to a few days in June when they'll both be at summer camp for a couple hours at the SAME TIME. I can't even imagine how productive I'll feel. Brian gave me a gift certificate to my favorite spa in Houston, so I know I'll be using that while they're preoccupied.

Company Picnic

2011-05-09T16:58:00.000-05:00

Every year during OTC week (that's Offshore Technology Conference for you non-Houstonians unfamiliar with the gas lingo), Dad and his family are invited to a family picnic out at George Ranch Historical Park. It's a gorgeous place with huge oak trees, I think I posted pics of some of those trees last May. Anyhow, they have lots of kid friendly activities, good food, open bar (bummer for me), and live music. We are lucky to get to tag along.

First stop was at the clown to get Carter's face painted. He picked a rainbow ... with sparkles ... Very manly, right? Oh well.

Cole wanted a balloon animal, but didn't want to get within 15 feet of the clown. She turned the bubbles on and he started to warm up.

The Merry Go Round

The goats loved Cole. He was generous with his feeding.

Cole on the merry go round, again. But not on an animal, which was nice so I could sit as well.

Before we left Carter wanted another painting on his face. This time he opted for a more "boy themed" picture and chose the Batman signal. However, he had to have gold sparkles on it.

Happy Easter

2011-05-09T14:51:00.000-05:00

I probably can't still say Happy Easter, since that was 2ish weeks ago. But my blog is ABOUT a Happy Easter, so there.

We started off the holy week with an Easter Party at Carter's school. Here he is showing off his foam craft bunny.

My attempt at a picture with Carter, we just have big noses and chins since I took it holding the camera.

Carter and a few of his classmates after their egg hunt in the school courtyard. I have a video I could post of the chaos. But during the hunting, one of the girls tripped and fell and all the kids ran over and started taking the eggs that fell out of her basket. I just couldn't post it, too much "Survival of the Fittest" going on...

Every year, the night before Easter the kids put their baskets out on the front porch so the Easter bunny can leave them treats. How else do explain the same basket every year :)

Carter showing off the Grave Digger Monster Jam Stunt Jumper that Grandma and Grandpa gave him for Easter. And yes, that it is a monster truck temporary tatoo on his arm. It came off before church, but forgot to get it off before the camera came out.

Easter basket loot.

Foam rocket launchers were a big hit.

" Hmmm, where should I look for eggs?" Cole likes to put his finger to his chin and go "hmm" alot these days. Like he's really considering his options.

Aha! Found one.

Hmm, who is winning the competition. Everything with Carter is a contest these days. And I try to work that in my advantage. Who can get in the car seat the fastest, who can get their jammies on fastest, and even a few times he's fallen for the "who can take the longest nap". I'm not kidding :)

The Easter Bunny didn't hide confetti eggs this year (the dew makes them transfer dye and it's a huge mess), but I did buy some for them to play with. Still a huge mess, we had 36 cracked shells in the yard and confetti everywhere. I guess there is a price to pay for fun, good thing I generally don't mind paying that price.

Cole realized early on that there was candy in the eggs, so he just layed down and starting chowing down.

He stuffed eggs in his shirt to give him muscles.

We had a great Easter and hope you did too. I like hearing Carter's rendition of the Easter story. "Jesus had his eyes closed and then God saved him and his eyes were open again." Then he shouts "Jesus is Alive." Sweet little boy.

Third Annual Easter Egg Hunt

2011-04-20T10:01:00.003-05:00

Can't believe it's been three years so far. Well I guess, two years, but three egg hunts! The girls and I were commenting how fast the four years of us all being friends has just flown by. I'm speaking of a small group of gals that I've known since Carter was a few months old. Joanna has us all (and several more of her/our friends) out to Rancho Alvarado (her place in Hockley) for her annual Easter Egg Hunt.

We always have fun at her place, and this was no exception. I was excited about Cole finally being old enough to really participate. And he did, except for the Easter bunny - not a huge fan yet :)

A few of the kids with the Bunny. And yes, Carter - as usual, is surround by girls. Lord help me as this beautiful child grows up.

Cole was having a great time hunting for eggs until he accidentally broke one open and realized there was candy inside. Then he could care less about how many eggs he found, he just wanted to eat the candy. And here he picked chocolate and it was all over his hands.

There were 6 Golden Eggs that were especially hidden amoung the 5 acre ranch. Carter's friend Luke and his sister, Caroline, both found one. So Carter (and Brian) went on a mission. Carter was so excited to find one. Here he is showing it off. He even slept with it that night, I'm not kidding! And we've hid it around our house and yard several times recreating the fun.

Then the unthinkable happened. Carter and Cole both came across another golden egg in the bird feeder.

Cole came out the victor since Carter already had one.

Here are the guys emptying their loot. Joanna recycles the eggs from year to year. I'd hope so - there were almost 1000.

The Golden Egg winners waiting to get their prizes. Carter got a whirly sprinkler (which we love) and Cole got some bubbles, sidewalk chalk, silly putty, and a jump rope. Lots of fun outdoor toys. Thanks Ms. Joanna!!

I think I have a picture of Carter doing this with Brian somewhere. I need to find it and post it ...

Here's a picture of me with the girls, minus Joanna who was behind the camera. It's a little blurry because I hijacked the picture from Joanna's Shutterfly account and then cropped it a bit.

Here's our family shot. I've given up on all of us looking at the camera and smiling. The only other pic I have is actually much better of Brian and I, but Carter has a weird smerk on his face, not that this is much better of him.

Fun with Friends

2011-04-20T10:01:00.002-05:00

While we're definitely in a drought down here and several thousand acres are burning wildfires, we've actually had nice weather in Houston. Several cool fronts make for cool/cold mornings and afternoons in the upper 70s and low 80s. So we take advantage while we can.

Here are some pictures from a birthday party in Tomball. This is one huge slide. Cole did it on his tummy, feet first and you could hear him slide all the way down - his skin was squeaking.

If boys were allowed to have "besties" I'm pretty sure Luke would qualify. They have a great time together. Here they are acting silly for the camera. Every time I tried to get them to smile, Carter would flash one his silly faces.

And what would a trip to the park with boys be like if there wasn't a stick finding contest.

This past weekend we had some good friends over to hang out in the backyard. It was a gorgeous day. The adults moved all the patio furniture into the shade (and away from the line of water fire) while the kiddos played in the baby pools and shot each other with water guns. We enjoyed some good company, good brats and hotdogs, good music and lots of entertainment from the kids. Plus, my girlfriends helped me clean up the mess so I didn't have a bunch to do the next morning. Though Kelly, I think I've reconsidered my position on confetti eggs - I'll be cleaning up my patio for weeks :)

Kevin is 19 months old and did a great job of staying out of the way of the 3 four year old boys that were having a water canon war.

And the only girl, Caroline, survived the evening as well.

The big boys on my bed watching Monster Jam trucks on the TV. Grant, Carter and Luke all have a strong affinity for all things monster trucks. They know almost all the names and can't wait until the next show at Reliant Stadium returns. I check their website weekly for an update, but I think it'll be at least the fall or winter before that happens again.

Luke was getting a good shot with the water gun on Cole. I'll admit, it was kinda nice to see Cole being the underdog for a change. I swear, except for the size issue you'd think Cole was the big brother. He picks on Carter all the time.

Here's a video of the kids playing together. They played pretty well together considering there was lots of face shots with the guns. And I mean a lot. They gave and they took some pretty tough shots. At one point Carter and Luke had the big squirters and Cole had a little measly water gun. They were teaming up on him and Cole ran out of water so he just threw the gun at Luke. Luke was okay, it didn't hurt him so everyone laughed (otherwise he would have ended up in time out). It just seemed like a James Bond move or something. Run out of bullets, no problem. I'll hurt you with my pistol. I wish I had THAT on video. Though, you'll catch him throwing the soccer ball at the boys a few times...

Here's Carter one afternoon in our backyard. He looks goofy to me in this picture, but he really liked it and asked that I put it on here.

Daddy playing soccer with the boys.

Carter had his own ball for the soccer season and Cole just had to have his own. Thats kinda how we handle the sharing issue at home, just buy another and don't deal with it! Yea, bad lesson to teach - but whatever - I've got my hands full with other teaching lessons :)

I took this video a week or so ago at A Bunch of Fun, a play center nearby. It's of Carter doing hopscotch. It cracks me up. He knows he supposed to hop on one leg on the one sqaure sections, but can't. So he uses two and then lifts up a leg. He definitely tries everything.

Dewberry Farms

2011-04-20T10:01:00.001-05:00

On April 6th Carter's class had a field trip to Dewberry Farms. It was a gorgeous day. Thanks to my mom for watching Cole all day so I could go. I'm not sure I'd really call it a farm though, we only saw a few animals but had a ton of fun on all the activity centers.

Carter and a few of his classmates ...

Carter and his best bud in class, Shiv, on the hay ride.

They had a dairy exhibit there and this old couple was such a hoot. They were speaking to four year olds, but using big words like oxytocin hitting the bloodstream and helping convert food and water to milk. It was hilarious. Of course, there were several moms there that were either pregnant, nursing a newborn, or recently stopped nursing and we all could totally relate to how this poor cow felt being hooked up to a milk machine. What was actually pretty cool was the amount of milk they could extract in seconds. If you look at the big glass milk container to the upper left of the lady's head, you'll see some milk in there. It took 5 seconds for that much milk to come out. Totally impressive and as I'm sure any mother of young kids would say, "Dang, wish I could feed my baby that fast!"

This kid goat was born just hours earlier that day. So cute!

Duck races with the water pump. And no, Carter is not standing on a stool - he is actually much taller than most of his classmates. Particularly the cute little boy next to him. To be fair, David won't turn four until August. But still - Carter is pretty darn tall.

Barrell train was lots of fun. I rode it as well, though Carter wanted to sit at the front with his friend Madison. I think he later wished he would have let her sit right up front. The tractor (and high wind) kept throwing dirt and sand in his eyes. Hey, that's what you get for not being a gentleman in the first place :)

I also rode the pedal cars, though fortunately a photo was not taken. I even took Carter with me on one of the larger ones. Needless to say I was sore from the workout the next day.

The hit of the day was the rope swings from the hay stacks. It took him a few tries to figure it out, but once he did it was hard to get him to stop and go play with something else.

A video of him swinging on the ropes.

We had a blast together. They also had some bouncy ball swings that I did with Carter, a jumping pillow, a zip line - which I would later come to regret that I did. And a few other things we enjoyed together. I look forward to going with Cole when he's three.

Big Day

2011-04-20T10:01:00.000-05:00

March 31st was a big, busy day in our family. The boys and I went with my Grandma to Kings Orchard in Plantersville to do some strawberry picking. It was a chilly morning, hence the jackets, but beautiful and sunny. Perfect picking weather. I've wanted to go for a couple years now, but never made the time. Now that we've gone I'm definitely going back. They are the MOST delicious berries I've ever eaten. The boys picked quite alot and we ate them every day for over a week, at almost every meal. I hesitate buying any at the grocery now, they'll just taste so bland!

Carter showing off the beginning of his loot. He filled that box up - about 7ish pounds worth.

Cole ran everywhere and finally wanted in the wagon, he became a lazy picker but at least I didn't have to chase him like usual.

Here's a video of Cole babbling to Grandmama while picking berries. Some of them were really stuck to the plant and you couldn't get it off. If you listen closely you can hear him grunt and say "Uh Oh." He's so cute.

That afternoon Brian and I took Carter with us to our big ultrasound at the doctor's office to check on the baby. By now I'm sure you all know we are having a boy. We are very excited. I've heard several cute replies like "those Sheltons must be working on a basketball team" (Brian's brother has two sons under the age of 2), or "now you'll never have to do yard work again, the boys will do it". But my favorite has definitely been that I'll remain the "Queen of the Castle" That is definitely true. Though, the title of Queen sounds a little prissy. I'm definitely a down and dirty Mother of Boys and I pride myself on that. I'm very excited about doing this a third time. I think the only person a little disappointed was Carter. He really wanted a baby sister. I think it's because he terrified of having another handful like Cole :) Cole gives him a run for his money! But it's been 3 weeks now and he hasn't mentioned it since that first day. So I think we'll be okay. He does want to know what the name is going to be. As does everyone else. The big question now is will I pick another C name. Or rather, will Brian and I pick another C name :) I like to wait and name my babies once they're born but my girlfriends who are throwing me a shower are BEGGING me to tell them ahead of time. Hmm, we'll see :)

Carter was so excited about going to the ultrasound, or as we explained it to him - an xray of the baby. The tech was showing us all the body parts - "here's a leg, here's the head, here's an arm" And when she played the heart beat and showed us the heart, Carter wanted to know where God was. He was concerned that God wasn't in the baby's heart. We always talk about how God is in our hearts and when they showed a picture of the heart, he really thought he'd see God. It was the sweetest moment. I wish I had it on video. I told him that when the baby was born he'd have to tell him all about God, how much we love God and how much God loves us. And then we'll know that God was in his heart. Oh, the thoughts of four year olds.

He also prays for the sweetest and funniest things at bedtime. He starts of thanking God for the "WONDERFUL" day - he emphasizes wonderful. Then moves on to telling God his favorite part of the day, he'll throw in a please make "fill in the blank" person better, and then end with a thank you for making his Mommy, or his Daddy, or the baby in Mommy's tummy. Then, because Cole doesn't really talk, he asks me what Cole wants to pray for. I'll give him an idea but he ALWAYS says 'NO, he doesn't want to pray for that." He wants to tell God, "Thank you God for his milk, thank you for his pacifiers, and thank you for his crib." In that order. Every night. And if I suggest that that is what he wants to pray for, he'll still say no and just change up the order. Super sweetie!

Back to the big day - we went out that evening and celebrated with Matthew and Allison. They were in town for a wedding shower that Alli was co-hosting. That was the first time we'd seen them since they'd announced that she was pregnant too. She is 4 weeks behind me. And is having a completely different pregnancy than me. Hey, maybe she'll finally give the Wilcoxsons a girl - who knows. The poor thing has been sick the entire time. And can't eat anything spicy. Holy cow am I the opposite. If it isn't packed with flavor, don't even give it to me. I order everything extra spicy, or extra onions, etc. And even will admit to eating a jalapeno cheeseburger for breakfast on more than one occasion.

I go back for another ultrasound on 4/28. This little guy was moving around so much they couldn't get all their measurements. So we need another one just to be safe, although they assured me they saw nothing abnormal - it's just a check list of measurements.

Brian's back for a Happy Birthday

2011-03-28T10:59:00.000-05:00

In the 7 and a half years that Brian and I have been married, the longest period of time we've spent apart is 2 nights. Yea, you read that right - 2 nights. My friends can't believe it and some even laugh at me. We've been very blessed that Brian's job just doesn't take him out of town all that often. And since we've had the kids his guy weekends are just that - only a night or two away for the weekend. And that rarely happens. Oh man, did I just put that in writing? It's okay, he doesn't read the blog anyway :)

Anyhow, this past week Brian had a trial in Henderson, TX - roughly 4 hours northeast of here. He left Sunday morning and came home late Wednesday night. We have now doubled our longest time away. And yea, I know that's still not that long but we REALLY missed him. He was working or in court from before dawn til after dusk and the cell phone reception in the hotel was crummy. So we barely spoke, or even texted. That was the hard part. The kids were wonderful, I kept them busy. They stayed mostly out of trouble and slept well for me. I just really missed talking with my husband.

He came home just in time to celebrate his birthday. And we definitely had a great weekend and celebrated his birthday the way he wanted too. While he was gone he was talking to Carter on the phone one morning and I could only hear Carter's side of the conversation. Here's how I assume the conversation went on Brian's side.

Carter - "I'm going to make a cake for you for your birthday"
Brian - "Can we put candles on it?"
Carter - "How many candles do we put on it?"
Brian - "Well I'm going to be 42"
Carter - "But Daddy, there's not enough room for 42 candles"

He wasn't being silly or sarcastic like I would have been. He was generally concerned there wouldn't be enough room. I laughed all day about that.

I spent the Thursday chasing down a good deal at Best Buy for a new HDTV for our bedroom as part of Brian's birthday present. I had to go to the Woodlands to get it. I did save more than I spent on gas, so it was worth it. I told the kids I'd take them to the mall to play and ride the carousel. Well the play area was being cleaned so we rode the carousel instead. It was a boondoggle to say the least. I get up to the carousel thinking I had cash to buy tokens, I didn't. So I go to the ATM right there and get $20 cash plus a $3 fee. But it didn't dispense my money or print a receipt. So I did it again and made sure to press "Give a Receipt." So another $20 request plus ANOTHER $3 fee and I realize, it doesn't spit out your money like the one I'm used too. You have to open a door and get it. Great. I just spent $6 and we haven't even bought tokens yet (which are only $1 a piece). SO - then I get to the token machine and it says it only takes credit cards, no cash (which is the opposite of the one at Memorial City that we usually go to). Just my luck. All that ATM nonsense for nothing.

Here are the kids riding the (essentially) $8 carousel.

On Friday Brian took the much deserved day off and shot his new gun at the shooting range. Then came home for lunch and headed back out and went disc golfing with some friends. Then Mom, Dad, the boys and I met him at Pappasitto's for some yummy mexican food - Brian's favorite.

Here are the boys showing him the superhero card that sings that Carter picked out for Brian. Carter still doesn't understand you're supposed to get a card the RECIPIENT would like, not necessarily what YOU would like.

And this is of the boys making yellow cupcakes with chocolate icing, Daddy's favorite.

Carter's new favorite game is a "show me your silly face." He and Brian were goofing off at dinner.

And Cole was eating some quesadillas while Grandpa held the iPhone for him to watch a show. Those phones are a saving grace for a decent meal out to eat. It keeps the boys quiet and entertained.

On Saturday we did some yard work and I spent the rest of the morning on the hunt for the larger plastic pool with the slide like we had last year. Two Walmarts and one Academy later, I settled for the smaller one with the slide. I didn't think there was going to be that big of a difference. Uh, yea, there was. The slide kept collapsing and the boys could barely fit there hips down it. So we improvised. Here's a video of the boys playing.

Mom and Dad came over Saturday night after to watch the boys so Brian and I could have a date night. But we were all so tired that we cut it a little short and went up to Buffalo Wild Wings for some basketball, wings and beer. I actually ordered an O'Douls non-alchoholic beer. Do you want to know what tastes worse than Miller Lite? This would be it. Horrible. Horrible. Horrible. It was like watered down Miller Lite. Waste of $4. And I won't be doing that. I'll just wait another 20 weeks and get a real one!

Part of Brian's birthday wish was to go to the beach sometime that weekend. So we got up and left by 8 on Sunday morning and headed to Galveston. The kids love it and Brian even more so. I don't like getting in the water, I'm too afraid of fish and sharks. Particularly at Galveston because you can't see your feet. But we brought a bunch of sand toys, Monster Jam trucks and other things to keep us busy on shore. Brian and Carter headed out to jump in the waves and Cole and I walked the beach.

We weren't there but maybe an hour when we all took a walk and spotted several jellyfish washed on shore. It must have been high tide or something because it brought in lots of seaweed as well. While we were walking a bigger than usual wave came in and washed a jellyfish right on Cole's foot that got stuck on him because he was standing in seaweed. It stung him pretty bad on his foot. I've never heard him cry and grunt like that. I carried him and ran up to the Lifeguard station only to find no one there (we were at Stewart Beach which was a manned public beach park). I banged and banged and couldn't get anyone. 20ish minutes later I finally found someone to help. He sprayed some vinegar on it to neutralize the sting and said he should be better in 30 minutes but not to get any sand on it. Uh, kinda hard to do at a beach. So we packed up and came home. He was better after sleeping the whole way home and today only has what looks like a rash on his foot, but it isn't bothering him.

We just spent the rest of the afternoon playing in our makeshift water slide and pool. And Carter convinced Brian and I to fix the hole in the Slip 'N Slide and they played in it. Although the don't understand the concept of running then sliding. So it became a "Shove 'N Slide" with Brian shoving the kids down the plastic. They loved it. Though Brian might be sore today :)

We don't need a holiday to celebrate and have fun

2011-03-23T20:32:00.000-05:00

We always seem to be having a great time in our house. We don't always need holidays, parties and special things to have a celebration. Sometimes it's the every day, what some would call "mundane" things we do that can be lots of fun.

Case in point - a library trip. The weather has been so great around here that I've been taking them outside or to the park instead of the library. But last week during Spring Break we had a thunderstorm kinda day that just screamed "Go to the library" and we did. Once the rain had passed (or so I thought), we headed out. The Cy-Fair college library got new kid computers with touch screens. Cole was so excited that he could play now too; Carter loves to play on their computers and Cole just has to watch. Not anymore!

I think the checkout terminal is now Carter's favorite part. He's a master at that thing. He knows what buttons to push, where to place the book, and how to scan the bar code.

The rain did come back. Just as we were walking to the car, a deluge of rain poured on is. The kids thought it was hilarious. Me, not so much. It's not easy buckling two kids into car seats, plus a stroller and 40 pounds of library books. I was drenched. My socks and bra were wet - absolutely ridiculous.

This was at lunch afterwards, he was trying to put his crayon behind his ear like my Dad does but it wouldn't stick. So he thought he'd just stick it in his teeth.

I hesitated putting this picture on the blog, but I blacked out the private portions. The boys were laying down in the bath tub as is shown, and it looked so posed - which it wasn't. So I had to snap a shot. They look so tall. Or maybe we just need a bigger bath tub! I can't imagine what we'll do when we have three!

Speaking of the third. This poor little thing barely gets mentioned. I sure hope that isn't going to be the case when he/she is born! Our ultrasound is on April 5th (Mom's birthday), and we're hoping to find out the gender. Part of me would like to keep it secret, but Carter is insisting I give him a baby sister. Specificly, a "teeny tiny baby sister." So I need to know ahead of time to prepare him in case it's a boy. I probably need to prepare ALOT of people in case it's a boy :)

Here's a photo of Carter showing off his Lego zoo he made with Sissy when she was in town a few weeks ago. She refused to be in the shot - but I promise her creativity was at hand.

And lastly, our neighbor Johnny is starting up his own photography business and took a few pictures of the boys. It was in December, hence the brown grass and dead flowers, and I wasn't even home. The kids were playing in the backyard with Brian and Johnny peeked over the fence and asked if he could snap a few shots of the boys. Their hair wasn't combed and the weren't "dressed up" but they are still the cutest little boys ever. He gave me a copy of the few good ones he got ... finally :)

Spring Has Sprung

2011-03-23T19:49:00.001-05:00

It's officially Spring, but those of us in Houston have known that for awhile. My yard is loving this weather, as are the boys. We've been taking advantage of cool breezes and tons of sunshine. We may be in a drought but I'd rather water my lawn every day then be cooped up in this house during a thunderstorm. Besides, the boys are great sprinklers. The have hose fights, water gun wars and I'm hoping to make it to Walmart in Dad's Suburban some time this week to get our yearly big plastic pool.

At the park - Cole can now climb up this curve ladder. Carter used to drive me crazy because he'd run over to it and start climbing on it and show it to Cole, knowing full well he couldn't do it himself. Therefore, making me get off the park bench and help him do it. We've now hit that stage where I can sit and relax in the shade while they play. Hallelujah!

And Cole will now go down the slide on his bottom, not his tummy.

Carter's new addiction is Monster Trucks. Brian took him to the Monster Truck show back in February when it came to Reliant Stadium. Ever since, he loves watching the TV show on the Speed Channel and he's trying to collect all the different trucks. Fortunately he had a pretty good start that he didn't even know about from a birthday present a few years ago. We take them everywhere. Here he is at the park.

And of course Cole needs in on the action.

Carter also likes to line up all his Matchbox cars and run over them with his trucks like they do on TV

During Spring Break we had the opportunity to visit with some friends we don't normally get to have play dates with anymore due to school conflicts. We went out to Joanna's house, were fun is always around.

Here they are playing with the Barbie Jeep.

I need one of these, this way Cole won't have to actually learn how to pedal :)

We all took a walk down to the pond where they threw a bunch of rocks in. Throwing (anything) is Cole's favorite thing to do.

And a visit to Rancho Alvarado wouldn't be right without visiting the horses, and Fudge, their miniature pony.

Another outside activity we love besides water hoses and squirt guns are bubbles. They love bubbles. Companies now make these automatic ones were you just push a button instead of actually blowing so Cole has a great time. Check out his tongue, he always sticks his tongue out.

I call this one "Bubble Head"

Another outdoor activity we seem to do alot of around here is soccer. Carter is playing for the Y again this season, and he's four now so they have a practice during the middle of the week, so at least two days a week we are playing soccer - not to mention in the evenings in our backyard. Here he is in his uniform at a game.

He loves to play goalie. But lately it seems whenever it's his turn, the other team never has any shots on goal, so he gets a little bored ...

Brian normally takes Carter to practice and I stay home with Cole. Otherwise, we're chasing Cole around the soccer field. He really wants to play with the big boys. You got another year kiddo, sorry :) If we all go, Brian will play with Cole. Now that it's Daylight Savings, it's a little easier to watch him.

And what would Houston in the springtime be without some outdoor lunches. Cole and I went to Pei Wei together last week, just the two of us. He loves Chinese food, as did the birds who cleaned up the rice mess on the patio ...

"I want to ride a buffalo"

2011-03-23T19:49:00.000-05:00

It's Rodeo time in Houston. Has been all month actually and we've been celebrating it . Carter's school does a Rodeo Day where they transform the gym into a rodeo. I didn't take pictures this year of the gym, but here are a few pics from last year to give you an idea of what they do.

Pretend Cow Milking

Chuck Wagon Races

Gold Mining

Here are Carter and Cole before Carter left for school dressed in his cowboy attire.

My friend Kelly had last minute free tickets to the Rodeo one night to see Sugarland. And while I'm not a huge fan of country music, I love free tickets :) She took her four year old, Grant. And I took Carter. We decided they'd make better dates than our rock loving husbands.

Here are the boys looking out of the huge Ferris Wheel.

And me with them and their huge sausage on a sticks.

Since it was a last minute trip we didn't have time to do much and I knew Cole would love to go - so we needed to go again. Plus, Carter was SO disappointed that he couldn't ride a buffalo. He meant "bull" but still keeps calling it a buffalo. So Mom and I took the boys to the Livestock Show and Carnival. I knew Cole would enjoy it, but he had more fun than Carter - if that's possible.

Here they are camel riding. I thought Cole would be timid - not at all!

Playing with a kangaroo in the petting zoo. That thing just kept hopping away from them and they loved it.

The baby goats were adorable. They were so tiny.

And instead of petting the animals, Cole liked putting mulch on them. Silly kid.

The Birthing Center was Mom and my favorite. There were cows that just gave birth the day before, one that was due any minute, and several that were a couple days old. They also had sheep and pigs. Carter liked watching all the pigs fight and squirm to eat.

They had a worm digging station and many other neat things that the kids enjoyed. Carter held up his worm for a while and when I finally got the camera out, I guess it squirmed and he freaked and dropped it. Hey, I wouldn't have even touched it - so that's saying something.

They had a mattress exhibit, kinda weird - but I really liked checking out the Tempurpedic too.

And a rodeo/livestock show trip would not be complete without

The battery on my camera died, so I resorted to my iPhone for a few last shots of them. Cole absolutely loved all the carnival rides, he was just tall enough to ride them without me (thankfully since I'm pregnant :) )

And his second favorite thing was milking the pretend cow.

Happy Valentines Day

2011-02-20T18:55:00.000-06:00

Last week we celebrated Valentines in our house, with good friends, and at school. We never seem to miss the opportunity to have a party around here. Even on what is generally looked upon as a "Lovers Holiday." We totally kid-ed it up.

A few days before the 14th, we met some good friends at Chuck-E-Cheese and all the kids made Valentine cards for their friends to exchange. They ate pizza, cupcakes and had a blast. And I'm ashamed to say I didn't take a single photo of it. Julie did - and I hope she sends some over. I just keep forgetting to ask her.

On Valentines day, the kids opened cards and a small gift from Brian and I. They each got singing Hallmark cards (their favorite) and a bath toy set. Cole got Toy Story bath soaps and a sponge, and Carter got a Spiderman pretend Shaving Set. He was so excited to shave like Daddy. He was counting down the hours until bathtime that evening.

They had a party at school where the kids exchange cards and candy. Man did he bring home a big loot. Cole was in heaven and for some reason they felt the need to polish it off in one sitting. I of course refused, but they tried! I went to Carter's party and pulled out my pocket camera only to realize the battery was dead. Ugh, I'm 0 for 2 now. His teacher got some cute ones, and she'll put them in his photo book for the end of the year. But for now you'll have to imagine a cute photo of he and I smiling together :) They made candy necklaces and I was proud of Carter. The thin elastic string was floppy and hard to thread with the small hole in the candy. But he got all 50 candy pieces on his necklace without my help. I helped several other kids whose parents couldn't come and was glad to see Carter being so capable.

Upon coming home from school Mom had dropped off some Valentine surprises for all the kids. And I say "All" because Carter and Cole got one AND the baby in my belly :) They were great cupcakes from a bakery in Katy. Carter loved how his had wrapped candy on it.

That evening Carter finally got to shave. He must have done that 5 or 6 times that night. He loves it. One evening last week, he and Cole were playing after just getting out of the bath and Cole scratched Carter's face. Carter got upset and whined, "Mommy, Cole scratched my face and I JUST SHAVED!" It was hilarious.

Another party they had last week was a pajama party and it couldn't have come at a better time. Mom and Dad took Carter out to the land in Marble Falls where they are building their retirement home. They were meeting with the well guy that weekend so Carter tagged along and had a blast running around the land and spending time with Grandma and Grandpa. There was a pool at the hotel, so they picked up a swimsuit while in town. Carter also saw some pajamas on the sale rack he just HAD to have. These are fleece football pajamas that he has worn every night since returning home AND during the day at times. So when a Pajama Party was on the schedule for school, Carter insisted on wearing his new favortie pjs. They read "If You Give a Pig a Pancake" and made pancakes for their snack that day. Even the teachers came dressed in bedtime attire. They really do make learning fun.

Speaking of learning, we enrolled both the boys for school next year. Carter will be in the 4 day 4 year old preschool class and Cole will be in the 2 day 2 1/2 year old class. It is the same class Carter was in 2 years ago, I'm so excited. It will be really helpful since I'll have a 2 week old when school starts! Baby and I will get some quiet time and the boys will have fun playing and learning.

And speaking of baby - I'm doing well. About 3 1/2 months now, and mostly over all the morning sickness. I'm still plagued with being tired at times, but I think that's because I chase two boys around all day. We told Carter about the baby and he is very excited. He has a couple of "demands" though. We have to have the baby at a big hospital, on the 11th floor, and the doctor who gives me a shot must be a man. But the biggest request is that this has be a baby sister. He keeps telling everyone he already has a baby brother and he NEEDS a baby sister. Oh and she better be tiny, like teeny tiny he says. He's adorable.
We actually had quite a few outings last week, I just didn't get many on "record" with the camera. We went to the zoo with some girl friends (they are the only boys quite frequently) and the Butterfly Exhibit another day. Carter loved carrying around the identifier sheet and trying to match up what he saw flying around. I highly recommend that place to anyone with kids intrigued with bugs.

While I didn't take alot of pictures last week, I did get a cute one of Cole hugging a tree after he and I had lunch together one afternoon.

And here is Cole trying to play Curious George games on the computer with Carter. Carter knows how to open Internet Explorer, go to My Favorites and choose his PBS games. It's amazing. And he's quite adept at an iPhone as well. Just ask anyone in my favorites list on my phone, you get calls all the time:)

And here are my two rock stars playing Guitar Hero. Carter can actually play it successfully on Beginner. Cole just pretends, but don't tell him that.

I've charged up my camera and plan to take more pictures this week. We'll see if my plans coincide with my schedule :)

Portrait Time

2011-02-07T07:32:00.000-06:00

With all the hussle of birthdays, parties and doctor visits. I forgot to get the boys annual photos taken. So last week (during the ridiculously cold weather) I took the boys back to the same old place we always go. They always seem to get a decent amount shots of the boys and I don't have to pay too much for them. Well this time it was like pulling teeth. Cole just wouldn't cooperate. And while that made it much easier to go through the proofs and pick out which ones I wanted to buy, I was also put in the position of NOT buying all the good ones of Carter because I didn't have enough of Cole to even out my purchase. And I just couldn't buy more of Carter and feel "good" about it. I gotta be fair!

Carter is my little ham. He poses and smiles so well for the camera. He is a model in the making.

Look how red Cole's hair looks. I swear it's not that red in person. It does have red in it, like a strawberry blondish color. But it isn't this red :) Not that red is bad - he's adorable in this picture!

Only pose of them both looking at the camera and smiling.

I call this the "ought oh!" moment. It looks like you caught them doing something they shouldn't be.

I love this picture. Cole is just DONE with taking photos. Carter looks as if he's telling him, "just one more picture Cole". And Cole is refusing. This indeed was the last shot of the day :)

Guys Night

2011-02-04T10:11:00.000-06:00

Carter had a Dad's Night at his preschool last week. He is all about his Daddy lately. But instead of Dad's Night, he kept calling it Guys Night. We have those periodically at home, on nights when I go out with the girls and it's just the "guys" at home. They'll stay up watching movies and eating junk food; cliche yet very special. So when Carter found out he was having a Dad's Night at school, he just couldn't wait.

He made him an invitation at school and wrote his own name on it. Can't seem to find a picture of that, better go take one. He also made a tie at school that Brian wore for the evening. He kept telling Brian he gave him two purple hearts. Brian chucked, but Carter didn't understand why.

Then they had pizza and juice with all the other dads in the Fellowship Hall. Brian said that Carter's classmates have weird and boring Dads. Well honey, they can't all be as awesome and funny as you! Then they came back to the classroom and made some "things" with recycled items, i.e. paper towel rolls, pipe cleaners, small boxes or jars. Brian said Carter was the hit of the party after he made him a sword. Everyone wanted Carter's craft. They also made a pine cone bird feeder that made a huge mess on my kitchen floor, but that's okay. Here is a picture of the "lobster" they made.

Carter drew a picture of his Daddy and answered some questions. I took a picture, but here is the run down in case you can't read it:
"My name is Carter. My Daddy's name is Brian."
"My Daddy is 24 years old."
What does your Daddy do?
"Goes on the elevator" - Note, that is Carter's favorite thing to do when he goes to Brian's office.
What is your favorite thing you and your Daddy do together?
"Play toys"
What is your Daddy's favorite thing to eat?
"Pizza"
What makes your Daddy happy?
"Watching the news" - Note, he said this because every morning we have to negotiate who gets to watch what on the TV. And we always tell him we get to watch the news first :)
"My Daddy is special because he is happy" - Well that's the truth Carter!!

Recovery

2011-02-03T17:37:00.000-06:00

Note - this blog was meant to be posted over a week ago. I thought it posted, but apparently was just in my drafts folder ... We'll see what the "post date" is.

After a big week of birthday parties, family visits and lots of doctor visits we recouperated the following week. We were lucky to have some nice weather so we went to the park, out for ice cream, got haircuts, just normal every day fun stuff :)

Cole can finally make it up the inclined tube at the park in our neighborhood. This is a big deal since now he won't scream in jealousy as Carter goes up it and then down the big twisty slide.

And what would a trip to the park be without a visit in the "Cheese Tree", if you recall, everytime Carter sees this tree he poses and says cheese, a sign I should take his picture.

They also like to walk over to the tennis courts. Here they are trying to steal balls through the fence.

We went over to Grandmama's apartment and watched a movie. Cole was a snuggler that day and sat next to her for quite a while. She was quite happy to snuggle.

And I can't take a picture of Cole without Carter posing as well.

I took the boys to get their haircut at the same time at Cool Cuts. I normally take Carter to Sport Clips because they're cheaper and he doesn't need to sit and watch a movie. Cole on the other hand requires lots of distraction. I just killed two birds with one stone and they did great. You might not be able to tell, but they each get to watch their own TV.

Brian and I like to go to Wings N More for wings, beer and sports watching alot. Yes the food is good, the prices are good, and their beer comes in large draft tubes, but they have a little game room that we sit next too and the kids play games all night. So Brian and I can have a more enjoyable eating-out experience. Cole knows how to pretend with the car and shooting games, but Carter has figured out the candy claw and can reach the change machine. He's quite proficient at both.

I spent most of the day cleaning one day and getting caught up on laundry. The boys were doing such a good job of picking up after themselves and playing by themselves so I could be productive. So I took them down for a late afternoon treat at Marble Slab for some ice cream. Carter ordered the usual - strawberry ice cream with sprinkles in a sprinkle coated cone. Yuck. I was going to order something for Cole that I would enjoy eating because I knew he couldn't/wouldn't eat it all. However, when he saw Carter's sprinkle coated cone - he had to have one too.

Carter just loves games and when Cole takes a nap every afternoon, Carter and pull out games to play together. Right now his favorite is Yahtzee - the Toy Story version that a friend gave to him for his birthday. This is a picture of him scoring his 4th yahtzee in a row - I kid you not. Seriously - I promise, no cheating. The kid rolled 4 in a row.

Birthdays bring presents, cake and ... doctor visits

2011-01-18T16:36:00.000-06:00

Last week was my busiest week as a stay-at-home mom. We had two birthdays, two dentist appointments, two well checks (on different days), a field trip, a doctor visit for me, a dentist appointment for me, an overnight business trip for Brian, a trip to the airport to pick up my in-laws and birthday party for the boys. I'm exhausted!

We've been celebrating Carter's birthday since before his birthday. My friend Julie and her kids were unable to make it to the party on the 15th so we met her at Chuck E Cheese the week before to celebrate. We got there at 9:30 and pretty much had the place to ourselves - very nice. Here are the boys on the roller coaster video ride - their absolute favorite

On Carter's actual birthday, we went to iHop for breakfast and they sang him Happy Birthday and gave him some ice cream. Ice cream for breakfast is probably a high ranking birthday wish for a 4 year old.

That evening we went to Pei Wei, Carter's favorite restaurant because he can watch them cook with fire, with Mom & Dad. He got a kids camera from them as a gift. Such a great idea since he is always stealing mine. Cole likes it but thinks it's a view finder.

On Monday I went to the dentist and the doctor. Most of you probably have heard by now, we are expecting our third child in August. Everything went well and we have ONE strong heartbeat. There was some speculation that I might have two since I seem to be having more side effects this go around. I just say it's because Brian's tolerance for my complaining has waned.

On Tuesday we had our usual swim lessons and the boys are doing wonderful. Cole is officially floating all by himself and will hopefully move up to the Golfish class soon. That will be a cause of celebration because I will no longer have to get in the pool with him. Carter has completed all his tasks except learning a basic shallow dive. He's a great swimmer.

After swimming I took the boys to their dentist appointments. This was Cole's first time, since he just turned two. He was a handful, but did good. Dr. Zummo said that he has good strong enamel and thankfully, much more room in his mouth for all teeth. Carter isn't so lucky. His poor mouth is just to small for those pearly whites. He warned me again about saving for braces. Carter did have a small cavity in a deep pit on the side of his back molar. The dentist said those are very difficult to prevent in children (mouthwash is your best defense and he's just too young). So I didn't beat myself up too much about it. Though I'll be honest I did feel guilty and still do. Dr. Zummo is the same pediatric dentist I went to when I was a child. And he still has the SAME arcade games in the waiting area for the kids to play. Cole loved it!

On Wednesday Carter had a field trip to the local fire station. They've been learning about fire safety at school. You should see him stop, drop and roll. It was a cold day in Houston. Here are all the kids in his class.

After school I picked him up and took him to Dr. Hayes for his four year well check appointment. He was 41" and 39 pounds. That's the 80% in height (so he's tall) and the 60% for weight. She said that was a good proportion. He had to have 5 shots and I did tell him ahead of time he would be getting "some." He didn't fight the nurse and did well. I took him out for ice cream afterwards. He was doing well for about 4 hours and then BOOM - he wasn't. He couldn't walk and he was so fussy. I let him sleep in bed with me since Brian was out of town on business. Poor kid wouldn't let me look at his shots, it's like he was embarrassed. Fortunately after some ibuprofen and some sleep he was a new kid by Thursday. Here he is talking on my phone in the exam room. He loves to steal my phone and scroll through my recent call logs to find Grandma or Uncle Matt.

Thursday was Cole's actual birthday and we went back to iHop with Mom & Dad for breakfast, but after really slow service we skipped out on the ice cream. Sorry Cole! That afternoon, we picked up Nan and Pee Paw at the airport. They flew in from Indiana for the boys' birthday party. We had a nice visit. Carter showed them all his games and toys, particularly the Batman Cave they gave him for his birthday. Here's Cole opening a gift at iHop.

Friday was Cole's turn at the doctor. He was in the upper 95% of height, he was 37" tall. And weighed 28 pounds, that's roughly the 55% for weight. It would appear that both my boys will be on the tall side as the get older. I can tell it in their pants, they're actually needing new ones before the ruin them with mud, food, markers, and holes.

Earlier that morning Nan and I took Cole to the mall while Carter was at school. Cole enjoyed riding the carousel with Nan.

Saturday was the big day for the birthday party. It started out cool and rainy. Not a good day for an outside birthday party - but thankfully the rain cleared enough for all 15 kids to play outside in the SpiderMan bounce house. It was a dual party, half Toy Story decorations and half SpiderMan decorations. Lots of balloons and cupcakes. I made the cupcakes myself and was pretty proud of them. We have such good friends with beautiful sweet kids. That makes for a fun party. Plus having Nan & PeePaw AND Grandpa & Grandma there made it extra special for them (and me since they helped clean up!)

Carter blowing out his 4 candles. Next year I'll probably have to do a cake, I'm running out of room on the tiny cupcake for how many candles we need!

Cole ate icing all day long. Every time I turned around he snagged another cupcake and had licked the icing off of it.

Picture of Niki, me and Joanna

Family shot in front of the jumper.

Sunday was another rainy day so Nan and I took the boys to the movies. You see that BIG bucket of popcorn between the boys? It was gone at the end of the movie. The boys went to town on that thing, it's probably why they last the whole movie. But man, that's alot of popcorn!

Monday morning we had to say goodbye to Nan and PeePaw, but not before I got a shot of them with the boys.

So as you can tell we had a crazy busy week. And I now have a healthy 4 year old, a healthy 2 year old, lots of clean teeth, a healthy mommy with a baby in-utero, a great visit with grandparents and many more toys to organize! I don't mind being busy if it means I get to have all these things to be thankful for.

Divide and Conquer

2011-01-16T11:03:00.000-06:00

I've been enjoying some one-on-one time with each of the kiddos lately. Brian and I will split up the day and the kids so he has one and I have one. Then we'll split it up so he has some alone time and I have some alone time. It has been working out well. Of course we still do lots of things as a family of four. But every now and then, just a simple meal with one of my boys or a routine trip to the mall can make some very fond memories.

Here is Cole enjoying his favorite breakfast food - a taco.

On Sunday afternoon, Cole and Brian stayed in during the cold rain to watch a movie while Carter and I ventured out at the mall. I had plans to get some clothes for myself and finally make a dent in some of the gift cards I received over Christmas. But I opted for some fun memories with just Carter and I.

Here he is at Olive Garden being cheesy for the camera. He was so well behaved.

And eating ice cream at the mall.

Now that he's four (birthday pics to come on seperate post) he said he could ride the carousel alone. He was proud and I was thankful I no longer had to endure the spinning t-cups. Can you say nauseating!

Boys are Messy!

2011-01-03T13:39:00.000-06:00

Like you didn't already know that, right? We make messes in this house all the time. And, as a whole, I don't mind cleaning up after them. Cole has recently learned it can be fun to pick up after yourself, but he still finds making the mess much more fun. And well, Carter, he'll make a huge mess and tell me "I'm just too tired to clean it up." "Well then go take a nap and I'll clean it up" is my response, and that will genenrally get him to pick up some of it.

Carter's new favorite mess is drawing on himself. A few days ago Mom came over and saw he had drawn a perfectly straight line in ink from the top of his forehead to the top of his nose. I told her that was just what she could see. I pulled down his shorts and underwear and showed her the many lines on his butt cheeks. Seriously, he stuck a pen down his pants and wrote on himself. I just couldn't understand the reasoning behind it, it's not like he can even admire his artwork!

This is washable marker all over his face.

And mud all over Cole's. He and Carter played in the rain and mud last week and made a huge mess.

We do lots of art projects. Here they are stamping. Carter thought he should give me some stamps on my hands and arms like his teachers do at school after music and motor class. I didn't take a picture of my tattooed arms.

Here is Cole squishing jelly out the container with his mouth at iHop on New Years. Brian and I were starving the next day after being out all night. I barely had a half cup of coffee before we threw the kids in the car to run up and get something to eat. I told Brian "for a woman who didn't have anything to drink last night (I was the designated driver) I sure do feel hungover! Food made it better :)

Speaking of New Years. We had a great time at my friend Niki's house. Mom and Dad graciously watched the boys until the wee hours of the morning. I couldn't imagine what a babysitter would have cost that evening!

While sitting on the couch with my girlfriends I noticed a great photo op. So I hollered at Brian "hey honey, come over here so I can get a group shot of the girls." He came over and stuck his head in the picture, as if I wanted him IN the shot, not TAKING the shot." In the end I'm glad he was in the picture, my friends like him and vice versa. He's a great guy :)

And here is the one he took with me in it.

Well this concludes my first post of the year. I hope to update once a week. My friend Phoebe made that her goal last year and she achieved it with three kids running around her feet all day. I guess I can try and keep up with her. We'll see ...

Happy Birthday, Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, and everything else

2010-12-30T19:06:00.000-06:00

Swooosh - did you hear that? That was the sound of Christmas whizzing by. Man, it felt like it would never get here and then I woke up and it was over. We had a wonderful week of festivities though, so I guess the whirlwind literally flew by. My birthday is on the 23rd and it always kick starts the Christmas celebrations. Mom and Dad are so great at making my birthday special, not just as a side dish to Christmas. I'm my own entree! This year they took us all (me, Brian, the boys, and Matt & Alli) to Benihanas. To say Carter was enamoured would be an understatement. He had a blast. Cole did too, though he wasn't has interested as Carter - I'm not sure any one could have been though. There was alot of food flying in the air, and most of it was caught. Carter even got to throw some edamame at the chef.

Brian gave me a new digital camera to keep in my purse. I have nice DSLR but it's so bulky that I can't drag it every where that I drag the kids and I miss out on so many photo ops. It's hard enough to wrangle the two boys, much less that ginormous camera. I haven't read the manual yet, and I need to, but I put it on the easy setting and took a few shots. Pardon the blurry, dark or over flashed shots - I'll learn the ins and outs soon.

Uncle Matt and Aunt Alli. As part of my birthday present, they took the boys out for the afternoon to Chuck E Cheese while I got my hair cut. Brian said he thought that M&A were more excited about the outing than the boys, and that's saying alot! They're are a wonderful Aunt & Uncle.

Cole ate pretty well at dinner, but was really excited about my ice cream. He's good with a spoon when he wants to be.

Our group shot. I promise I'm not drunk, really. I was just trying to keep my hat on as Carter was trying to bite it off.

After dinner we went back to Mom and Dads were we did our annual Beer Draft. They started this 4 or 5 years ago. Mom and Dad pick out 20 or so different speciality beers (and a few large normal ones too) and then Brian and Matthew take turns "drafting" their picks - do you get the play on words there people. Very clever I think. In years past Brian would go for the 24+ ouncers and Matthew would go for the 12 oz eclectic ones. Well finally they've learned each other tricks and now it's all out warfare. 3 years ago after seeing that Allison and I were left out, Mom and Dad started a Chocolate Draft. No play on words there, just lots of yummy expensive chocolate that we'd never indulge in through out the year.

The next night was Christmas Eve and after picking up Grandmama and running in and out of church (long story, let's just say that we were blessed that 2000 people were worshiping the birth of Christ under one roof), we came back to our place and had a Tamale Dinner. We were embracing our non-existant Mexican heritage. Or maybe I should call it our Tex-Mex heritage :) Mom made awesome mexican rice, I made homemade charro beans and waited in line the day before to pick up 4 dozen of the best spicy pork tamales in town. It was a fun evening. Here is Carter helping me cut cilantro

All the presents to and from Mom, Dad, Matt, Alli, me, Brian and both the boys. Plus ones that Nan, Pee Pa, Nana, PaPa, Sissy, Ruppert, Jerry, Lois, yada yada all sent. We are lucky to have such generous givers in our family. We want for nothing :) I will say, I did put up a few toys in the closet to bring down in May. Since the boys have January birthdays, it's just overwhelming so I try to sneak a few away and then bring them down in a couple months for a nice treat.

Instead of cookies, Carter thought Santa would want some of he and Daddy's special rice krispy treats. Santa left a note the next day saying he was thankful for the change of pace, or something like that.

And of course the next morning was Christmas. I made Matt & Alli come all the way from Kingwood to arrive at my house at 6:30 just to make sure they didn't miss Carter waking up. There were on time. As were Mom, Dad and Grandmama. Turns out they were still asleep when everyone got there, but you can never be too careful.

Carter on his new 16" Spiderman bike that he asked Santa for. Cole asked for a tricycle. He isn't quite tall enough to ride the 12" Trek that Carter is passing on.

Allison showing off her new purse from Mom & Dad. Matthew hamming it up with his new work shirt.

Carter is very excited about his new Batman cave that Nan and PeePa sent him. He told Santa he wanted one, but then changed his mind for the bike. Glad to see Nan & PeePa have Santa's phone number :)

And the favorite gift of all to Cole was the Buzz Lightyear that Grandma & Grandpa gave Cole - as did Uncle Matt and Aunt Alli. Great minds think alike! He loves anything Toy Story, but the talking Buzz is a huge hit. We took the extra one back and will be getting a talking Woody when they're back in stock.

I like this picture because it is Matt and Alli prentending to be surprised after opening the patio heater Brian and I gave them. Carter showed them the box earlier in the week and told them what it was. Don't tell him a secret that you don't want anyone to know.

Choices Choices. We got several Imaginext playsets that Cole just loves. He loves figurines and pretend play. I set them up all around him in the playroom like a big city.

And Sissy - I told you he'd get lots of cool toys but would still find the Shake and Go Woody awesome. I'm always right!!

Carter received Spiderman skates and pads from Uncle Matt and Aunt Alli. He tried them out on the patio, but mostly Brian just pushed him everywhere.

The boys picked out some Superman underwear for Brian. He's such a good sport.

Playing with Buzz again. "To Infinity and BEYOOOOOONNNNNDDDDDD"

Some of the hundreds of Legos Mom and Dad got Carter. They gave Cole some Duplo ones with a zoo theme, he loves to carry around all the animls and Carter builds the cages. I love Legos too, except when I step on them...

And to prove my theory right, it won't matter what name you put on the gift tag - Cole will play with Carter's toy and Carter will claim Cole's. It's just how it goes. Here is Cole on Carter's bike.

And Carter on Cole's trike.

As you can tell we had a fun Christmas. We spent alot of family time, Dad took off alot as did Brian. It was special. Tomorrow is New Years eve and Brian and I are going to our first "adult party" since before we had kids. Thanks to Mom and Dad for watching them. We are going to enjoy a night out. Depending on how incriminating the photos are, I might post some in the new year.

We hope you all had a Merry Christmas as well. And a Happy New Year to come. We anticipate a very blessed and bountiful 2011.

Out and About

2010-12-13T19:57:00.000-06:00

I meant to insert some pictures on the last blog from my camera phone, but ran out of time. I just wanted to publish that blog and move on. I'm going to try and keep up with the blog better, I know I know, I've said that before. I don't want to think of it as a chore any more and if I go more than two weeks without posting than it IS a chore.

So here are some pictures over the last couple months of things we do while we are out and about. They're probably not in order, and I'm not going to even begin to try :)

At the annual Fire Fighters Parade of Lights. It was cold, but we had a nice time.

Brian took this picture of Carter while they were out hiking. Carter always has to have a stick to hike with and this one was huge.

The Red Oak in our backyard. It might not be huge, but we love the color and unlike most other trees that people have planted in our backyard on our street - this one is thriving.

The finished product of our Christmas tree at home, minus a few things I added later. But you get the idea.

Even though this Superman shirt is getting small, I just love it on him because it brings out how blue his eyes are.

The zoo has a new exhibit called the African Forest. In it are 10 chimpanzees that are so social. They love banging on the glass playing with the kids. Carter was trying to give kisses through the glass when one of them yawned. It looks like the chimp is about to eat Carter though.

Cole reading at Wonderwild. He is on the move all the time, but when he's not he loves to read and play by himself.

For once Carter fell asleep in the car and Cole started pinching him to be awake instead of the other way around. The tides they are a changin'

Carter and I at his Friendship Feast. All the 3 year old classes have a party outside together instead of individually in their classrooms. I went to help setup, then stayed and enjoyed the party with him.

One of the things Cole says the most (in Cole English) is "Look at That!" Here he is hollering "Look at That" while looking at Tom the Turkey who comes to Carter's school every year during Thanksgiving.

And here is Cole trying to ride Carter's bike. He wants so badly to be able to ride a bike, he's just too little right now. He can almost reach the peddles. I have it on good authority from Santa that Cole is getting a tricycle just for him :)

In November, we took the boys with Mom & Dad up to Austin to go to their first UT tailgate, and Uncle Matt and Aunt Alli flew in from Denver. While the game was lack lustre, we all had a good time at the tailgate. No great pictures, but proof we were there :)

Also in November the boys went to a friend's birthday party at Pump It Up. While I wasn't looking Cole climbed up a 30 foot inflatable slide and had the time of his life. Fortunately he slides on his tummy feet first (much safer than sitting). Carter had fun too.

Didn't even make it to the freeway before he fell asleep in the car. Not surprising!

We met some friends at the zoo and got there early (I'm always early) so we rode the train. Both the boys love trains, I just wish they weren't so expensive to ride! Now every time we go to the zoo they want to do the train and it's not part of our zoo membership.

Well that's probably enough for now. I sure hope I can keep my "promise" to update more regularly. It's so time consuming to post stories and pictures when it's a long period of time.

"You've Got Your Hands Full"

2010-12-10T15:40:00.000-06:00

I hear it all the time. Normally I nod along chuckling in agreement, all the while thinking "no not really, they're sweet boys who are just 'all boy.'" However lately I've been beginning to see the other side of things. Cole is one of the most affectionate toddlers ever. He kisses and hugs without prompting, just because he wants to. He loves his family. He runs to the door yelling "Daddy!" everytime Brian comes home from work. He yells and screams when we leave Mom & Dad's house, he wants to stay longer. And he snuggles all the time. However! He is on the go constantly. It's amazing how independent he can be even though he's such a Momma's Boy. He plays well on his own and loves to explore at long distances from me (or whoever is watching). It has it's pros and cons. I'm glad he can entertain himself and find joy in looking for excitement on his own, but he's hard to keep track of. He is super fast, seriously - fast. I feel bad making him ride in a stroller while Carter gets to walk. He hates it, he wants his freedom. But for his safety, he has to be restrained :)

Cole's language is still mostly incoherant. I call it the Cole Dialect of English. He understands and responds to most everything you say to him, you just can't understand him. He says "Look at that Mama" all the time, but it isn't annunciated at all, only the family really understands him. He is doing really well in swim classes. He was tested over Thanksgiving when he fell into Mom & Dad's freezing cold pool. He popped up to the surface, rolled over and got his head floating long enough for me to run over and grab him out of the pool. He was upset, cold and scared, but did the right things to keep him safe. Swim lessons have officially been worth the cost.

Cole has a definite affinity for Toy Story or dinosaurs. He carries around tiny 3" figurines of the Toy Story characters all the time. I have to keep a couple in my car for entertain purposes and always a few in the house to play with. He will be having a Toy Story party in January. Carter likes TS as well, but has grown pretty fond of all things superheros. He'll be having a Spiderman party. Well, it's one party but to ease my motherly guilt there will be decorations for both, two cakes and I even went to the trouble of doing dual invitations. Hey, it's for the baby books - I won't lie :)

Carter is pretty much no longer taking naps. Every now and then if we've had a particularly eventful day, he'll fall asleep in the car on the way home. But then it makes for a long evening and he's difficult to put to bed. Ever since the time change he's been a breeze to get to sleep. He goes to his room, reads a book, plays on one of our iphones for 10-15 minutes and then willingly turns it off and rolls over and goes to sleep. It's nice not having to battle him any longer. He is the ultimate negotiater though. He thinks he has a solution and answer for everything. If you tell him he can do A or B, he'll tell you. "I know, lets do A THEN do B. Is that a great idea?" It's adorable. When you tell him it's time to turn off the tv in 5 minutes he'll bargain for 10. I've learned to stay firm, but he'll try and work you like a used car salesman. It's cute. He's also very observant. I just put over 3000 lights on my 9 foot Christmas tree and missed ONE branch. He found it and asked me why I didn't put any there. It's hardly noticable, but not to him. He saw it right away. He asks about 500 questions a day, and that's not an exageration. He wants to know how everything works and he always remembers your explanations. I have to be careful if I start making stuff up, he'll call me on it. Even this morning he told me I was wrong and he was right and that Taco Cabana DID have pink lemonade. He WAS right. He is definitely my kid, always thinking he's right :)

Carter loves to do arts and crafts and can write his own name. He can count to at least 40 and knows all his ABCs, both lower and upper. He loves to sing and make up his own songs (he got that from his Dad and Grandpa, they both sing silly made up songs). Carter is doing well at swim lessons to, I predict he'll be promoted to Swordfish soon. He only has one more skill to gain in his current Dolphin class before he moves up. He is a very good big brother to Cole. Yes, he likes to wrestle with him. And steal then hide his pacifiers, but he likes to help me help Cole. He looks out for Cole and loves to play with him. The last year has really been fun, watching the two of them become friends and not just siblings. Its such a good age difference. They play well together and want to play together.

I'm excited about this Christmas season. Carter is at a wonderful age for Christmas time. He helped me decorate the Christmas tree, and has his own this. I hand painted several glass ornaments with superhero logos and Mom gave him some Santa ornaments from her tree. That wasn't enough so he stole a few from my tree as well. Here he is helping me decorate.

We've seen Santa on a couple of occasions and Cole refuses to warm up to the old guy. Here he is at Bass Pro. I love this picture because Carter is so perfectly posed and Cole is as red as Santa's coat.

One thing Cole does like to do it be like his big brother. Anything Carter does, Cole wants to try. Here is his first attempt at painting. It was a huge mess, but still a success. He enjoyed himself.

Carter had his last soccer game in November. He is showing off his trophy here. We'll be signing him up for Spring soccer for sure. He loved it. One of his favorite sayings is "Is that a great idea Mommy?" Well, during his last soccer game all the kids showed up and we had to rotate a few times and he needed to sit out one quarter. He stormed off the field and hollered, "That is NOT a great idea."

After Halloween, Mom picked up some dress up clothes on super sale. This is a replica Top Gun outfit. He's pretty cute.

After a trip to Barnes and Noble recently, I realized Cole really liked playing with the trains and was no longer just ripping the pieces apart. So when we got home I set up our track from when Carter turned two. It's a hit!

Cole can really pull of the bed head, don't you think?

One of the reasons I adore Brian is that he can be very creative when the need arrives. I can stare a seemingly empty pantry and he can come with some concoction for lunch or breakfast. In the picture, he made an impromptu pinata out of kite string, lunch bag and some leftover halloween candy. Carter had a blast.

Grandmama bought the boys some matching Christmas pajamas - which are the cutest things ever. I attempted to take some decent pictures of them for the front of our Christmas cards. Here are a few cute ones that didn't make the cut.

Here is a video of Cole "talking" while playing with blocks. I didn't have the energy to do any video editing, so I apologize for the length.

And another long one from Carter's Christmas Pageant at school this week. I had to zoom in, so it's kinda shaky in spots. Remember, these are three year olds and there is 30 of them (all 3 classes) so don't set the bar high. Also, the first two songs they sing aren't popular Christmas songs. So don't even try to figure out what the heck they're singing. You will recognize "We Wish You A Merry Christmas" though.

Very Busy Weekend

2010-11-01T12:46:00.000-05:00

On Thursday I took the boys to the Pumpkin Patch at Carter's preschool. Holy Canoli is it hard to get two boys to look at the camera at the same time. Particularly when I'm by myself and they are running around playing with pumpkins. Here are the results of my attempts for a "Pumpkin Patch Postcard Picture"

No, that isn't Carter's mad face. That is the face he gets when he flaps his arms (and most of the time jumps around) when he's excited. He was so good at smiling for the camera - it was Cole that was so interested in everything BUT getting a good photo.

Carter trying to corral Cole

No we're getting somewhere

Later that afternoon I took Carter to Awbrey's 4th birthday party at the roller skating rink. Carter and his friends all tried skating for the first time. I even got on some skates. I forgot how difficult it can be. It's probably been 15ish years since I've been on skates and in that time any skate I've had on was either a roller blade or ICE skate, which is totally different.

They had an aparatus you could push along on wheels that helped keep you stable, and that made a huge difference in the fun factor for the kids. Carter didn't want me to hold his hand and skate together, he said I kept making him fall. It's kinda true ...

On Friday, the church put on a HUGE fall festival. Carter had already had a full day, that he fell asleep on the way there. Hey, all that SuperHero work is exhausting!

Brian being silly with Carter's mask

There were lots of Spiderman's at the festival. I took this picture thinking it was Carter, turns out he was on another ride.

Cole in the balloon bopping room, he loved it last year too

Happy on the swings, for the moment. He liked it for a couple rotations and then couldn't find us and started crying.

Of course Carter loved every minute of it.

Here's a pic of Cole proving again, that he only wants to ride momentarily :)

On Saturday, we had a surprise visit from Matthew and Allison. They came in town to celebrate her birthday with some old friends. We had a quick breakfast and then they came to Carter's soccer game. They are so sweet with the boys. I don't have any pictures but I stole one off of Facebook from her mom's page - they are dressed as Maverick and Kelly McGillis from Top Gun. He's my brother, but he's handsome!!

That afternoon after the game, Mom and Dad took the boys to ITZ pizza and then watched them that night while Brian and I went to Austin with Seth and Jen to the UT v Baylor game (they are Baylor alums and got last minute tickets from Seth's friend). Even though Texas lost, I did have a great time hanging out with friends, sans kiddos :)

Sunday evening finally arrived and the boys were more than ready to start trick or treating. I was surprised that Carter's costume lasted, he had also worn it on Thursday night at a Halloween party at my Grandma's place. Plus all the times he's played dress up in it. Cole was a train conductor. He hated wearing the hat (why it wasn't on in any of the pictures from Friday), but if I distracted him with candy when I put it on, he'd forget about it.

In costume and headed out the door to get some treats!

Cole running up to a house across the street. He had this running from house to house thing down. He kinda didn't care much about the candy. He just enjoyed the freedom.

We trick or treated around 6:15, a little early and the first ones on our block. The kids were so tired from the weekend that I had to get the party started. Unfortunately only a few people were home and/or ready so Carter thought we should trick or treat at our own house to get some more candy. Smart kid.

As you can probably tell, Carter is way into Spiderman and all things superhero right now. I found (thanks to a friend of a friend) some Spiderman pumpkin accessories and he made his own SpiderPumpkin. Cole got a Mr. Potato Head Pumpkin that looks like Humpty Dumpty.

We had a great Halloween weekend, but I'm so glad the week has started again. I'm exhausted!!