Vocab Lesson from Asher

Sorry

I just reread my previous post and would like to apologize for sounding so negative! In order to preserve Malcom's reputation, I'm providing proof that he is still the cute and silly Malc we know and love.

Bipolar or Eating Disorder?

In an effort to keep things even, I'm now spotlighting Malcom (I'm all about fairness). Well, he pooped in the tub tonight and while I debated running and getting the camera to document, I decided cleaning up was the greater priority seeing as how he was already picking up pieces of poop and all the tub toys were being contaminated. So, the topic of discussion is something far less exciting, but every bit as concerning... his recent mood. My once mellow, and usually very happy Malc is changing. He is getting crankier. One minute he's content, the next he's on edge. The tiniest thing can set him off-- handing him the wrong color of sippy cup or asking him to sit down. Quite frankly, it's getting tiresome. Admittedly, most of our trouble occurs in the kitchen. As many are aware, Malcom loves to eat and always has. This is fine, but lately his lack of patience when it comes to eating is not fine. If I even dream of holding the sandwich while he takes a bite, or putting a hot dog in the microwave for a whole 20 seconds (heaven forbid) it sends him into hysterics. Consequently, mealtimes have become my least favorite part of the day. The bright side to all of this, I suppose, is how happy he is when he is eating, and seemingly moreso if he has managed to obtain the food himself. Even while strapped in his seat he can somehow manage to get objects placed clear across the table. It's pretty impressive. I turn my head for a few seconds (ok, more like leave the kitchen for 5 minutes) and he has managed to get ahold of Asher's bowl of yogurt. Or while I'm upstairs he goes downstairs, gets into the fridge, opens a package of tortillas, and takes a few bites (6 torillas thick I might add). What a little stinker. I'm just grateful he has something that always brings him so much joy:) Love you Malc.

Biking Boys

Yesterday, I watched as Asher and our nextdoor neighbor Skogan made a bike jump/racing course, and it dawned on me-- I am no longer the mother of a baby or little boy. I have a son, a real live son, who makes bike jumps with his friends like any kid might. Unbelievable. I seriously couldn't stop laughing, but then I wanted to cry because this means I'm getting old and so is he.


building the ramp


assessing the course


...and the jump

Carving Pumpkins

For F.H.E. we had my family over for tuna casserole and some pumpkin carving. Loads of Halloween fun:)

Pumpkin Patch: Now and then

Now....





...and then





Brooke Johns and I took our second annual trip to the pumpkin patch with our kids yesterday. As you can see, our trip this year had some changes: 1) We had a new participant...Bauer, the latest addition to the Johns family, and 2) We decided to add a little flare by dressing the kids up (a special thanks to Brooke for providing my kids with costumes). Although it was a brief visit, we sure had fun with our favorite pumpkin patch pals!

Amber's Wedding

This foxy couple was bound in holy matrimony just a week and a half ago. I have known Amber Elizabeth Ann Vanderstappen since the fifth grade and now here we are, 16 years later, on her big day. There's nothing like an occasion to bring the old crew back together. Best wishes to the happy couple!

Family Vacation to Southern Cal

Last week we went to San Diego for some good family fun. First day was Sea World - my personal fave. Who knew I had a passion for someday becoming a killer whale trainer? Not me, but after seeing Shamu, I decided I'm quite fascinated with those magnificent beasts. The boys enjoyed petting all sorts of marine life and their favorite show was the sea lions. Malc was convinced the big walrus was my sister's dog and kept yelling "Moses!" throughout the show. Asher loved the Journey to Atlantis roller coaster so we hit that a few times until he was "totally trenched". Second day was Disneyland. Asher is a ride fanatic, while he's not so fond of any kind of dressed up person... Space Mountain is great but Captain Hook, forget about it. Malcom loved the treats best, of course. Our favorite ride was Buzz Lightyear. It was magical, what else would you expect from Disneyland. Third day was the Zoo. We saw pandas, rode the skyride, ate dippin' dots, and watched some hippos poop-- the highlight of the zoo according to Asher. The last day we went to the beach and had a great time watching Malc get washed away in the surf. It was his first time in case you can't tell from his reaction in the picture. All in all, a fabulous trip!!

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

It's autumn time

Playing outside in the crisp weather with runny noses and long-sleeved football tees-- an ideal portrayal of autumn. Kevin took these on his iphone at Cambry's on Conference Sunday.

This song is wicked

A night out on the town

Kevin's work had their annual Atlas Awards Banquet Saturday night, so we took the opportunity to get fancy:) That's right folks, we rented Asher a tux! Ha ha, it was way too funny. It was Kevin's idea, of course, and Asher did get to make a debut on stage with his dad. Chalk one up for Kinsey who dressed the rest of us! P.S. Sorry my posts are having layout issues. I'm trying.

More Oliver as promised... plus a little Malc

Oliver burried in the ball pit!



Malcom hugging Oliver too hard, as usual.



Ollie with his up-do.



A big head (that would be Malc) and a squished baby.