The Moroneso Family

October 2010 Photos

2010-10-31T23:46:00.001-05:00

September 2010 Photos

2010-09-30T17:47:00.000-05:00

August 2010

2010-08-31T17:48:00.000-05:00

July 2010 Photos

2010-07-31T22:52:00.001-05:00

June 2010 Photos

2010-06-30T22:48:00.001-05:00

Don't I Know You?

2010-06-16T22:51:00.000-05:00

We were at the pool tonight, and a woman that I've become acquainted with said to her daughter, "look, Aunt Heather is here." So I look up (yes, I'm nosy) and think - that sure does look like Dr. Neville. The same Dr. Neville that delivered Sophie. And funny enough, my Sophie was kind of eyeing her as well. So I confirm that this is, in fact, Dr. Neville, and share that she delivered my daughter, and can thankfully run fairly quickly.

Since my son is quickly befriending this other woman's son, we were in the same general vicinity as them the rest of the evening. At one point, Sophie was walking through the grownups and appeared startled by Dr. Neville. I explained there was nothing to be afraid of - because she's the only person that has known her as long as Mommy and Daddy.

I will say it once again: Fort Worth is the biggest small town in the whole world.

I'll Do My Best

2010-06-16T22:39:00.000-05:00

Zachary has been participating in a Little Dragons class at a local Martial Arts studio for a few months now. He's really taken to it, especially the kicking, punching, and yelling. It's really cute!

The studio (and I suppose Martial Arts, in general) are very big into respect, for others and for self. Each student pledges to "do my best" before class. It's a concept that has really hit home for our family and Zachary.

So now, when he's feeling nervous about doing something new and/or scary, we just ask him to try his best, and remind him that we will be proud as long as he does. This has really motivated him, and increased his confidence. We couldn't be more proud!

My Jumper

2010-06-11T22:34:00.000-05:00

Zachary's friend Matthew knows how to jump off the diving board. Although he does it while wearing a life vest, this immediately made Zachary declare he was going to jump as well.

Smart Mommy said - Let's make sure you can jump off the side of the pool before you get stranded up on the diving board. So after about 15 minutes of progressive jumping techniques, he jumped without holding onto anything and deemed himself adequately prepared for the diving board jump.

We made our way over to the diving board. I went with him because I would rather be right there when he decided not to jump and not have to RUN at the pool to my sobbing child. And on the off chance that he did jump, I wanted to be there to fish him out of the pool.

First time up - he walked out onto the board (rather bravely) and decided he wanted to hold my hand and jump off the side. Worked out fine, but then he decided to try again.

Second time up - walked out onto the board and suggested that I get in the pool to 'catch' him. So off goes super mommy treading water in the deep end while he ponders this action. Note to readers: treading water is pretty good exercise. Super Mommy is a bit out of shape. :) Little Buddy finally decides there will be no jump and mom swims to the side to catch her breath.

Third time up - walked out and seriously contemplated the jump. I really thought this would be the time. But no - and so he decided that he will jump off the diving board another day.

In reality, this whole exercise was a huge success. He didn't cry on the diving board, he actually jumped in the pool without holding on to me, and he's excited to do it again. Can't wait to see what else this brave boy does this summer!

May 2010 Photos

2010-05-31T22:12:00.000-05:00

May Outside Play Time

2010-05-31T15:15:00.001-05:00

Some cute pics from our outside play time this month...

Last Day of School

2010-05-28T22:20:00.001-05:00

Zachary started at The Children's Courtyard in August 2007. The first few months were rough, but he got through it and made some great friends. As he 'moved up', we saw big changes - no more tears at drop off, smiles through the day, potty training (!), 'show and tell' time, birthday parties with classmates, and our brave boy emerged.

Zachary will be going to a new school in the fall for 5 day PreK, so we decided to pull him out for summer time. On his last day of school, we brought flags to share with all the friends, and a CD for his class to keep. He had a great day, and we took his picture with Ms. Alicia and Ms. Tatiana, his teachers for the last 5 months.

Z and Ms. Alicia

Z and Ms. Tatiana

Dancing Princesses

2010-05-22T22:51:00.000-05:00

We had the privelege to see Gwen and Hannah's dance recital today. They have been taking dance at Devotion in Motion all year and did a wonderful job. Zachary and Sophie really enjoyed watching all the dances and were surprisingly still and well behaved during the recital.

After the recital, we got to play with the sweet girls and congratulate them on a job very well done!

Zachary and Gwen

Sophie and Hannah

Take Me Out to the Ballgame!

2010-05-21T22:55:00.006-05:00

The YMCA Tee Ball program and TCU partnered to give the kids playing tee-ball a chance to run out on the field. It was a great idea, and except for the kids getting a bit antsy from waiting to go on the field, they had a lot of fun!

Grandma T even came with us to cheer on the Frogs against UC-Bakersfield.

We got to sit in the stands, which Zachary loved, and the kids had a great time!

Steve and Sophie

Grandma T and Sophie

Zachary and Yoltsin

The Boy

First Day of Tee Ball

2010-05-08T23:08:00.000-05:00

What a difference a year makes! Zachary started tee ball today, and LOVED it!

Check out these pics!

The Team

My Slugger

Sophie having a little fun

Poor Zachary

2010-05-02T22:11:00.002-05:00

After we got home from lunch on Sunday, Grandma M stopped by to drop off some extra cupcakes. We were all visiting, and next thing we know, Zachary is 'tossing his cookies' all over the tile. Before we can react, he does it again. We finally get him in the bathroom, and he does it again.

Poor kid projectile vomits just like his mom.

After another round of throwing up - made it to the bathroom this time - he took a little nap.

Cuddled with dad and puked one more time - and then it was done. He ate crackers, watched some tv, and was back to 'normal' by dinner where he consumed 2 bowls of pasta. Kids are amazingly resilient!

So glad my buddy is doing better!

Zachary's Lucky Day!

2010-05-01T22:40:00.001-05:00

Zachary and Steve went fishing this morning. They've been several times before, but have never caught anything. This time, Steve suggested they get live bait (EEEEW!). They made a deal - if Zachary got his own worm out of the bucket, Steve would put it on the hook.

Zachary was a very patient fisherman, and caught one fish and one turtle! Grandpa also got a fish and a turtle. Poor Steve was so busy with the worms that he didn't have too much fishing time.

When they reeled in the fish, Zachary was shaking from excitement. When they reeled in the turtle, he started running in place and as soon as it got close he took off running - just like in the cartoons! :)

Later in the afternoon, we were watching the Kentucky Derby and he picked the number 4 horse - Super Saver. Wouldn't you know - that darned horse won!

Next stop... Vegas!

April 2010 Pics

2010-04-30T23:15:00.000-05:00

Mayfest 2010

2010-04-30T22:39:00.000-05:00

Mayfest has returned to Fort Worth! Last year, it was cancelled due to Swine Flu (boo!!), so everyone was geared up for this year's version!

After early naps/rest time, Kendra and I packed up our kids for a fun trip to Trinity Park. We had a great time in the Children's Area, including thumbrint magnets, rock painting, paper flowers, face painting, and sand piles. Then we ventured out to see the monkey, ride swings, pet some baby animals, and ride the ponies. Thankfully, Steve's flight was on time and he met us there for the pony rides and escorted us back to our cars. We all enjoyed a dinner at Macaroni Grill - suprisingly good behavior, considering the late hour of 8:45 PM. Can't wait for next year!

the little girls

From April 2010

big kids

From April 2010

rock pile

From April 2010

painting rocks - oops - left them there!

From April 2010

making paper flowers

From April 2010

face painting for Hannah

From April 2010

Cute Gwennie!

From April 2010

Handsome Zachary

From April 2010

I did It!

From April 2010

more sand play

From April 2010

confetti eggs

From April 2010

scary clown - but the kids loved him!

From April 2010

big kids with little chicks

From April 2010

Surprise!

2010-04-18T16:07:00.002-05:00

Mandy and I came up with the idea to surprise my Mom for her 60th birthday. Since her sister, Rae, was already going to be here, we invited her other sister, Robin, to come in for the weekend. Then we invited her other friends to my house for a Ladies Luncheon.

We managed to pull off the surprise with some good luck (Mom was out of town for a week before the party) and some help (Dad kept it a surprise and got her to our house on time).

It was a fun party, and while I don't have too many photos, these are the ones I do have.

Mom's Surprise - Aunt Robin

The "Little Girls"

The Holden Women

Happy Birthday, Mom!

TCU Baseball

2010-04-13T21:02:00.001-05:00

We really enjoyed going to the TCU baseball game tonight! Zachary and Sophie really enjoyed all the baseball treats.

The Mighty Horned Frogs pulled out a win over the Aggies! We can't wait to go again!

Challenger Steam Engine

2010-04-09T20:18:00.000-05:00

A steam engine came to town today and we had the opportunity to go see it at the train yard.

Check out the steam!

Zachary and the Conductor

What a really cool experience for Zachary!

Main Street 2010

2010-04-09T16:15:00.005-05:00

We enjoyed a fun lunch at Main Street with Grandma and Grandpa M today!
Cream Puffs

Frozen Chocolate Custard

At Grandpa's Office

Can't wait for next year!

Play time with the McDaniels

2010-04-08T21:33:00.000-05:00

It's been a busy year, and we have seen a lot less of the McDaniels than I would like!

Kendra and I were so fortunate to be working on the same project at RadioShack when we were both pregnant. If you know Kendra, you will know that she did not look pregnant at all, while I was eating every donut in sight and LOVING it. But we still became friends because she is so nice!

She was so kind to invite me to her baby shower, and I went (8.5 months pregnant) only to realize we have several friends in common. So Fort Worth...

Then I took Zachary to her work shower, and then baby Gwen was born.

So Gwen and Zachary have known each other since the womb!

We soon realized how closely we lived to each other. Their first year of life, we saw each other several times a week, with playdates, music, zoo trips and Little Gym. Gwen and Zachary fell in love, and we like to say that we already know our in-laws. :)

Sweet Hannah was born in 2007, and she was a welcome addition to our happy group, and then Sophie came along in 2008. Poor Zachary is still the only boy with now 5 ladies, so he tries to keep us in line (haha).

Zachary and Gwen are still so in love, and Sophie adores Hannah and Ms. Kendra, and I love them all. We are so lucky to have them as our sweet friends!

This spring seems to have gotten away from us, so we decided to do lunch today after Museum School. It was a perfect day to eat outside at Central Market and let the kids (even Sophie) run around and burn energy. It was great to catch up, and pick right up where we left off.

Thank you, McDaniels, for being such a blessing of friendship to our family!

XOXO!

Playing in the Dirt

2010-04-07T20:53:00.004-05:00

After we finally put a patio in last year and got patio furniture, I decided we needed to do some beautification. The hydrangea (that I have somehow not killed) was moved to the patio to make room for front porch Christmas decor, and my sister gave me two flower pots for Christmas, so they were keeping everything company.

On Monday, Mom brought over some extra dirt from the lot next door and leftover bark and we filled the two empty pots. I was not surprised when Sophie jumped right in to help. That girl is a magnet towards anything messy!

On Tuesday, I took the kids to get flowers - two flats of them - and Zachary helped me choose zinnias and portulaca. I planted the some of the zinnias when we got home, but realized that there was definitely not room for the rest, nor the portulaca, so it was relegated to the yard.

On Wednesday, I took Sophie to Costco, where we found a HUGE resin flower pot for $19.99, so in the cart it went. After school, we had to run to Lowe's (for the 53rd time in one week), where I bought the rocks, potting soil and bark.

The resin pot came with instructions to put down a layer of rocks first. Good thing b/c otherwise I'd have a GIANT mess on my patio! And also, who knew that there were different kinds of dirt - some for flower beds and some for flower pots? NOT ME, and boy was I upset when I realized the flower pot dirt bags were way bigger (and heavier) than the flower bed dirt bags!

Lowe's also scored some major points since the nice employee who insisted on helping me load the car, also kept an eye on my crazy children while I pulled the car around. Exact opposite experience I had when hauling a cart of 18 foot chair rail through Home Depot while 7 months pregnant. And why I have yet to set foot in Home Depot since.

Zachary declined his nap - yet again - so we decided to get to work on this project of planting. He generously loaned me his wagon to get the dirt/rocks, etc. from my car to the patio, and then BEGGED me to not start until he was completely ready to help. So we scooped the rocks, and scooped and poured the soil in, and then he helped me get the flowers in the pot. Zachary did great - getting dirty and everything! When his crocs got dirty, he just took them off and walked over to the spigot and cleaned everything off. All this created some fabulous splashing puddles, which he thoroughly enjoyed!

So now our patio has been made a little prettier, and hopefully everything will hold up through the direct all day sun!

Thanks, Zachary, for being a great helper!!

From April 2010

Miller Family Fan Club

2010-04-05T22:04:00.000-05:00

Zachary and Sophie are the newest members of the Miller Family Fan Club. Zachary has always loved Alex, and I am fairly certain they will be lifelong friends. Sophie loves Alex, too, and his parents, Ashley and Brian, and can already say "Abby".

In California, she was with Brian as much as possible, and sat with Ashley for part of the wedding. While they were walking back from Communion on Easter Sunday, she was chanting their names, and as soon as they were seated, she made her way over to have some quality time with Brian. As soon as church was over, Zachary booked it over to play with Alex in the pew, and they were inseparable through lunch afterwards.

We're so lucky to have the Millers as our friends, and so glad that our kids love them, too!

Happy Easter!

2010-04-04T20:49:00.000-05:00

Zachary woke up bright and early this morning, anxious to see if a certain Bunny had left him any eggs to hunt... and insisted that his sister be woken to help. Sophie was happy to oblige, and lucky for us, the Easter Bunny did a great job on Easter baskets and hiding eggs. The kids loved their goodies, chocolate bunnies and hunting for eggs.

The church service was very nice today, and included performances from the Chapel, Chancel and Bell Choirs, which was a real treat. Then we joined the Boggs, Christensens, and Millers for lunch at Mira Vista.

Sophie pretty much passed out at naptime, but Zachary resisted. Oh well. After rest, we went to the Hollander's for dinner and playtime. We took a walk around the block and also down to the park area by their house. My kids were hunting roly polys like nobody's business, and Sophie left shouting "bye polies!"

It was a wonderful Easter for our whole family!

Adventure Week

2010-04-03T20:49:00.002-05:00

Or perhaps, Misadventure Week...

It started last Sunday when I fell at the JWC house - on top of Sophie - and busted my knee. Lovely...

On Tuesday, Sophie tripped on the driveway and collided with Zachary and his Big Wheel. Giant cut on her other eyebrow and 2 scratches on her nose. Just in time for Easter...

On Thursday, we had the meal from H!@* at Charleston's. Not necessarily anybody's fault, just the magic happening of the stars being misaligned for everything to go wrong. So fun...

On Friday, Steve's eye started hurting, but we pushed through. No biggie, right? Stay tuned.

On Saturday, Sophie fell backward in a kid chair and bit her tongue. Blood. Yuck. All was better after she realized her proximity to the pantry. She may be a bleeder, but she's tough!

Then, the Easter egg hunt at Mira Vista started 1/2 hour earlier than they had said. Nice. Disappointed kids.

As we were leaving (with Sophie crying about not getting more chocolate), Zachary trips on a rock. Basket flies, eggs fly everywhere, chocolate flies everywhere. Zachary crying, Sophie trying to run into the parking lot and crying. Nobody wants to sit in their carseat, and did I mention it feels like 95 degrees. Yes, we were that family.

Everyone napped - thank goodness. This was our "Easter Miracle".

During naps I heard from both tenants - Garage Door and Dishwasher issues. Oh Boy!

Steve gets home from golf wondering - maybe I should go to urgent care. Aforementioned eye now hurts pretty badly. Turns out to be a scratch well on it's way to infection. YUCK! Plus he went at 5:30 and most pharmacies close around here by 7. Thank goodness for Albertson's pharmacy and staff. If it was a drive thru, we'd all go there.

And thankfully the week has come to a close!!!

Zachary and Sophie March 2010

2010-03-31T22:29:00.000-05:00

Excuse Me, Bye Y'all!

2010-03-21T23:14:00.000-05:00

Never let it be said that I haven't tried to teach my kids manners!

Sophie's new phrases include:
Excuse Me
I'm Sorry
Bye Y'all (seriously the cutest thing ever - done with a wave and everything)
Thank You
Please

Big Boy Bed

2010-03-21T23:03:00.000-05:00

The time has come... Zachary is getting a real big boy bed. When we bought his crib, we chose one that would eventually convert to a double bed. He's been asking for a big boy bed since before Christmas, but between Christmas and getting ready for our California trip, all requests were brushed aside.

This week, though, Mom and Dad got our acts in gear and ordered the bed rails. Saturday we went to look at mattresses and select bedding. We were very lucky to find a Lightning McQueen bedding set at Bed, Bath & Beyond for a more than reasonable price, and 2 sets of sheets.

Today he settled on a bed, and it will be delivered tomorrow, just in time for napping.

Shall we place bets on if the napping will occur? :)

I Love You, Baby!

2010-03-15T22:52:00.000-05:00

Sophie has added a new phrase to her vocabulary: "I Love You!" She says it to people, and she likes to sing it with the Barney song. So watch out - the 'LOVE' is being spread around the world, courtesy of Sophie Grace Moroneso. :)

Home Sweet Home

2010-03-09T20:25:00.000-06:00

Our California adventure has come to a close.

We loaded up the luggage and the people and headed for the airport right on time. Our previous experiences at SFO made us think this trip through... Steve and Phil dropped Anne, the kids, me, and our luggage at the terminal, and went to return the rental cars. Honestly, if we'd had to make that trek back from Rental Car Land again, I think we would have just found somewhere in San Fran to live. Geez!

Anne and I were sizing up the security line, and the VERY NICE TSA agent invited us to use the Priority screening lane. I'm not sure if it was actual kindness, or an act of sparing the other passengers from listening to the whining for 20 minutes, but I appreciate it more than he will ever know.

Anne had access to the Admirals Club so we could have a nice place to sit for a few minutes. We tried to be inconspicuous, but really, how is that happening with a 4.5 and 1.5 year old?

As lovely as the Admirals Club is, the lunch/breakfast offerings were not pleasing to the little ones, so we headed next door to a cafe for 'brunch'. Steve and Phil joined us shortly after, and we had a quick meal. Back to the Admiral's Club for a potty break, and then time to board the plane.

Since we've traveled a couple times with the kids, we have a routine for boarding. Shocker. Steve takes the car seat, the carry-ons, and Zachary and gets on the plane first. Sophie and I get on last - or pretty close to it. But this time the routine got changed up, and in the commotion, Steve forgot to get all the carry ons, and the boys didn't get on as quickly as I would have liked. We actually watched them walk on the plane, resulting in Sophie screaming and wailing for Daddy. All the while, I'm trying to wrangle my 19 month old daughter, a duffel bag, a stroller, and my purse, without dumping everything onto the floor of SFO. It was loud. It was embarassing. But it finally finished.

We got on the plane and got settled. Ready for takeoff. I texted my friends that we were on the plane to come home and to please pray for my sanity. As the plane was ascending, Sophie pooped. Of course, I thought. Just like last time. I realized that it didn't smell too bad, and at that moment she said "tired", handed me her lovey, grabbed my hand and fell asleep.

FOR THE WHOLE PLANE RIDE!!!!!!

Yahoo!

After we landed at DFW, we got our bags - nothing lost - got our cars, and drove home. Zachary fell asleep about 20 minutes from home and stayed asleep until 7 the next morning!

Yahoo!

City by the Bay

2010-03-08T23:02:00.000-06:00

We started the day by driving into the city and going to Aquarium by the Bay. This aquarium was not large, but it was nice. They had a really cool glass underground tunnel where you could watch all the sea life in the bay. The kids saw sharks and sting rays and giant fish. There were also smaller tanks, including octopus. When we got back upstairs, we saw the touch tanks. The first tank had sting rays and a shark. They were so friendly - every time a new group of people came up to the tank, the sting rays would come splash them. Sophie and Zachary were up to their elbows in the tank, and would have probably jumped in had I let them. In the other touch tank, there were hundreds of giant starfish that the kids enjoyed as well.

After the aquarium, we were joined by the Finns and Grandma and Grandpa Moroneso. Lunch at Pier 39 was fun, and the kids enjoyed the street performers outside afterward. We headed onto the pier to see the shops, ride the carousel, and see the sea lions. It was VERY windy, so my kids got new sweatshirts (thank you Grandpa). They also got to see a magic show!

On to the Boudin Bakery at Pier 41. They have a window where you can watch the bread being formed into various shapes (they were working on turtles when we were there).

Grandma and Grandpa really wanted to take the kids for ice cream in Ghiradelli Square, so off we went again. It was quite a trek (should have probably cabbed it), and I carried Zachary a good portion of the way. Upside = Zero Guilt about Ice Cream! We quite enjoyed the ice cream treats, and they had a display of the chocolate making process. The boys enjoyed the fountain in the square, too!

Last stop - Cable Cars. We ventured back down a hill to stand in line for the cable cars. Halfway there, Sophie decided to throw a giant fit. Thankfully it just looked like she was praying to Mecca, so at least we didn't look totally weird. haha

We finally got on the cable cars (with 35 of our closest friends - and they are not large cars), and Sophie decided to cry some more. The boys enjoyed the trip and we got transported to China Town. Our stop in China Town was colorful, and we decided the kids did not need to see the cultural opportunities in one direction, so we opted for the other. Steve, Kaitlyn, Sophie and I took a cab back to the car, and the others, including Zachary, continued on with China Town. They got to see a fortune cookie factory!

After a quick drive-by of a RadioShack 'situation' we headed back to our rental house and decided that we were a bit jealous about the Chinese food eating that the rest of the group was experiencing. Thank goodness for GPS points of interest! We had a great take out meal!

Tomorrow we head back home, and it has been such a fun week! Cross your fingers for a better flight home!

Muir Woods and Beach

2010-03-07T22:42:00.000-06:00

The day began innocently enough...

We invited all of the Moroneso wedding guests back to our rental house for brunch. The perfect weather continued and everyone enjoyed visiting and eating on the porch. Thank you to the Mathis women for being my cooking partners, and to the Millers for bringing most excellent bagels!

After brunch, the men's tuxedos were returned and we headed off for Muir Woods. Let me tell you, that drive is not for the faint of heart - and that's just the drive there!

And then the Day of Many Misfortunes began...

When we arrived, there were no close spots, so the guys dropped us off and went to park the cars. Half an hour later, they return to meet us. Poor Steve has a sheepish look on his face. Turns out he had torn part of the running board off our rental Suburban while navigating the parking lots. Ick. But nobody was hurt, and surely a running board isn't too expensive. Onward we went.

It was a perfect day for a hike, and the kids had a great time burning off energy. The paths are lovely and the trees were magnificent. We made it all the way to bridge 4 without really realizing it. After we crossed bridge 4, a sign informed us that the path back was not stroller friendly. Half the group turned around and the other half continued on. A couple minutes later, the Millers returned to join us after Brian took a spill while holding Alex. Thankfully nobody was hurt seriously!

We made it back to the park entrance without too much incident. The little boys (Hunter and Zachary) quite enjoyed an encounter with a worm. We got some nice photos of everyone. Lunch was fairly uneventful, and we managed to get everyone through a potty stop!

Next stop - Muir Beach. After being assured it was just a few minutes away, we set out to find it, following the Millers. But then, a darned BIKE got between us, and we lost the Millers. And because we were so busy looking for their car, we missed the (slightly obscured) sign for Muir Beach. So we got to go back up and back down the mountain. That little exercise did nothing to improve the state of my marriage. Let me just say I was exceptionally glad to finally see the sign!

So we get to the beach parking lot and run into the rest of the group as they are getting in their cars. Turns out our little detour spared us from the horrors of being attacked by a rogue wave. This rogue wave caused yet another Miller Family Fall, and claimed an iPhone, in addition to soaking just about every other member of the group. Bummer for them!

Janice and Megan decided to stay with us (my kids, Kaitlyn, Steve and me) to enjoy the beach a bit more. We bundled up in towels to protect from the wind, and made our way there. Zachary loved it, and Sophie eventually did too!

We had a big family dinner at our house, and then Steve took Anne and Phil back to their hotel. While getting gas in our car, the gas pump spewed gas all over him! YUCK!

And so ended the Day of Many Misfortunes!

Goin' to the Chapel...

2010-03-06T21:51:00.001-06:00

This is it... Michael and Katey's BIG DAY!!!

We spent the morning running errands and getting ready. A big thanks to Kaitlyn for coming to the grocery store with me and the kids!

Zachary and Sophie both napped a bit after lunch while Steve Mathis and Steve Moroneso went to the hotel to help Michael get ready. The bottle of Patron tequila helped a little bit. :)

Then I got Zachary showered (my shirt got soaked too), and got myself almost ready, and then started to get Zachary ready in his tuxedo. Uncle Steve finished up getting Zachary ready, while I got Sophie up and ready. Somehow we made it out of the house and to the hotel in time for the shuttle.

Since the chapel is small, there were only a few parking spots, which meant we all got to ride a shuttle bus. Sophie quite enjoyed the bus (as did Zachary on the way back). The kids enjoyed playing in the chapel before the ceremony. Zachary did a nice job bringing in the rings in the special nest that Katey made. Sophie got pretty antsy after the 2nd reading, and we went outside to play aka climb stairs. Hunter and John came to join us shortly after.

During this time, Zachary was getting impatient. There was nose picking, scratching (yes, THERE), sitting, walking, and then he figured out that Hunter was outside. He announced to Steve that he would be "right back", and marched down the aisle to come play. I quickly sent him back in, and he STOMPED up the aisle. Kaitlyn (our savior) managed to get him to sit nicely with her for a while.

I heard the wedding was very nice, and the photographers took some great photos afterward.

Michael and Katey rang the bell after the wedding and we took the shuttle back to the hotel and then to the reception at Servino's. After a few child safety modifications, we enjoyed the outdoor patio overlooking the Bay. The appetizers were fantastic, and the kids enjoyed playtime with each other. By the time dinner rolled around, our kids were losing interest, so Steven ended up eating at a separate table with all the kids. We did enjoy some dancing time, yummy cake and toasts before calling it a night. Go figure - both kids fell asleep on the way home.

We were so honored to share this special day with Michael and Katey and wish them the best in their marriage adventure!

Ferries and Gnocchi

2010-03-05T22:27:00.000-06:00

This morning we woke up and decided to take the kids on Ferry rides before nap time and the rehearsal dinner. Kaitlyn decided to come with us and we had a blast with her!

First we drove to town and took the ferry to Angel Island. The ferries don't run continuously, so we just rode there and back, but it was a wonderful trip. Windy, but a nice first boat ride for the kids. Angel Island looked beautiful, and I hope we get to go back to explore someday.

We grabbed a quick brunch (15 minutes) of pancakes and ran back to catch the ferry through the bay. As we ran - literally - carrying the rest of our breakfast and Zachary, we saw several other members of our group, the Boggs and Finns. All the boys had a blast exploring the big ferry boat and the girls stayed warm mostly inside. It was a beautiful day for a boat ride -sunshine everywhere! We went to Sausalito first, then San Francisco and back to Tiburon. It was just long enough and the kids loved it!

After the boat ride, it was nap time. Everyone napped for a bit, and then Steven and I took Zachary to the wedding rehearsal while Kaitlyn and Sophie continued their snooze fest. Kaitlyn was an excellent babysitter!!

Zachary and Steven received excellent instruction on their wedding duties and then we returned to get everyone ready for the rehearsal dinner. It was a really fun party with a delicious dinner. Steven and I each made a toast to congratulate Katey and Michael and welcome Katey to the family. It's tough job to love a Moroneso male, but the good news is: they get better looking every day. :)

Jelly Bellies and Monkey Suits

2010-03-05T01:43:00.001-06:00

Day 2 of our San Francisco trip...

Steve and I just knew our little angels would be waking early on the first morning of Pacific Time. Luckily, the Jelly Belly Factory in Fairfield opens early, so we had a plan to keep them occupied. Added bonus: my dad grew up in Fairfield, so we could drive by his childhood homes and his high school to show the kids some of their 'roots'.

The drive from Tiburon to Fairfield is beautiful. You go from the San Francisco Bay, through southern Wine Country, through farms and hills, and end up in Fairfield, which used to have a lot of fruit orchards. The kids saw marshes, cows, etc. and it was great to be going the opposite of traffic.

Jelly Belly does a free tour that includes SAMPLES!! Visitors get to tour the factory on raised walkways so they have a birds-eye view, and there are windows strategically placed so the little ones can see without being held by their grown ups. Zachary was very brave and tried some yucky Jelly Belly beans (thanks Harry Potter), and Sophie especially loved the samples. We had to cut her off due to tummy problems that the excess of sugar was not helping, but she still gets very excited to see jellies.

After a stop in the gift shop to purchase "Belly Flops" - the irregulars - and some candy corn for Grandma T, we drove through Fairfield and saw the old homes on Pierce Street and Coolidge Street. I thought I remembered the house on Coolidge Street, but not so much. We also saw Armijo High School. The athletic fields seemed bigger and nicer than my old high school's. Sadly, we could not locate Johannes (great diner where my mom and dad used to eat), and think that it has closed, so we ate at Fresh Choice instead.

With our time in Fairfield done, we made our way to Green Brae to pick up the guys' tuxedos. Zachary and Sophie caught some shut-eye on the way, which made for happy children during the monkey suit adventure. The guys looked so handsome in their suits, and Zachary and Sophie had fun playing in the three way mirror. The wrestling got a bit out of control and my darlings tackled each other and fell into the corner of a table. I know the Men's Wearhouse was sad to see us go - NOT!!

Next on the list was a visit to Grandma and Grandpa's hotel, where we got to meet Katey's mom and went for a walk down to the dock. Zachary had a good time clowning around and seeing the fire station, and the grown ups got a much needed dose of caffeine.

Although we went back to our rental house for naptime, our kids decided it was bouncing time - no naps for them. So we met the group for dinner - Grandpa ate CACTUS!

The kids finally got settled down and Steve and I sat up to wait for the Mathis family. It was great to see them when they arrived!

SFO

2010-03-03T23:03:00.001-06:00

Note to travelers flying into SFO:

If you have a lot of luggage to collect, and are traveling with small children, it might be easier to get the rental car and then go get the luggage. See, some genius decided that you have to go downstairs to get the luggage, back upstairs, up a ramp, down a hallway, and up another elevator to get the train, on the train to get to the car rental place, down the elevator to the sign in counter with the rental car, and down another elevator to actually get the car.

Thank goodness we had our own personal sherpa along to tote the luggage. (photo to follow soon).

PS - while most major cities allow you to stay on a highway to get out of the city, San Francisco is not that way. Don't be suprised when your GPS sends you through the streets of town, and don't try to get back on the highway. You'll only lose time. Just go with it, and enjoy the sights. :)

February 2010 Photos

2010-02-28T15:54:00.000-06:00

Let it Snow, Part IV

2010-02-23T22:24:00.000-06:00

Zachary woke up, saw the snow, and asked why it wasn't on the ground. I tried to explain that it wasn't cold enough or snowing enough to stay on the ground. He thought for a minute and said, "Mommy, if it's not going to be on the ground, I want it to stop snowing." Fine with me kid - I'm tired of this stuff anyway.

So we had muffins for breakfast, they played in their "story box", had some brother/sister grump time, and then I pulled out a hopscotch mat. Zachary and I had a good time with it, and Sophie walked around saying "scotch scotch." Unfortunately, it was a bit early in the morning for that. :)

Lastly, I pulled out the Gymboree bubbles. If you have little ones, you need these. They are great for inside days because they don't leave a sticky mess. Don't ask me how - just accept it and go get some! So the kids chased bubbles all over the house for a while till it was time for lunch, then naps, and woo hoo - the snow finally stopped!

Keep your fingers crossed that we don't go for round five of this white stuff!

Sophie is 18 Months!

2010-02-15T15:23:00.000-06:00

Sweet Sophie is 18 months old today!

To celebrate, I took her for an 18 month well-check! Lucky girl!
Dr. Young says she's doing great.

Her stats are:
Weight: 27 lbs (84%)
Height: 33 3/4 inches (96%)
Head Circumference: 18.5 inches (64%)

No shots today, but next time we are in we'll have to do a Hep A booster.

Zachary came with us and got a lollipop and stamp for behaving so nicely. Sophie was a little jealous, and kept saying 'pop pop' all the way to the car.

Valentine's Day

2010-02-14T21:23:00.002-06:00

Our Valentine's Day was a bit different. Mommy was up sick all night (yucky yucky yucky) and exhausted and still sick in the morning, so Daddy had the kids. He did breakfast, playtime and lunch, and then bath time. Finally got them down for a nap and declared he didn't feel good either. Sophie decided to have a short nap, so we played quietly with her till Z got up. After attempting snack time with them, we called in Grandma T for reinforcement. Good thing too, because Daddy was fading fast by the time she got here and I wasn't quite back to 50% yet. Somehow the kids got in bed and the kitchen was cleaned up by 8:30.

Thank goodness for Grandma!!

Let it Snow III

2010-02-12T15:35:00.001-06:00

Dear Mother Nature,
I'm not sure if you're aware, but I live in Fort Worth - not New York or Colorado - and it is only supposed to snow here one (maybe two, if we've been really nice) day a year. We aren't prepared for it, and, quite frankly, snow gets old after a while. If you could double check your map before you direct the next snow fall, I'd appreciate it!
xoxo,
Becky

Snowman #1

Snow Sliding :)

Snow Angel

Daddy It's Cold Outside!

Snow Baby

Snowman #3 (Snowman 2 was demolished prior to photo time)

Good thing I have boys to shovel the drive way!

Happy Birthday, Daddy!

2010-02-09T21:24:00.001-06:00

Zachary, our party planner, decided Daddy's birthday should be at Chuck E. Cheese this year. We invited lots of friends to join us, and Chuck E. was there to help celebrate too!
Happy Birthday, Daddy!

Zachary and Sophie January 2010

2010-01-31T22:36:00.000-06:00

Sorry this is late!

Haircuts

2010-01-27T16:50:00.000-06:00

For the past few days, Zachary has been practically begging for a haircut. Surprising, coming from a kid that had to be physically restrained during the haircutting process until age 3. So I finally agreed that we could get one. As always, I was amazed at how much hair they cut off, and how much remains on his head.

During the haircut, I started talking with another mom about boy haircuts.

Other Mom: He sure is doing great.
Me: Yep - started on his third birthday.
OM: My little boy doesn't like them at all.
Me: Oh yeah, I used to have to hold him in a giant bear hug during the haircut.
OM: Wow.
Me: And when I was pregnant with her, his dad had to take him.
OM: My dad took him once and has refused to ever take him again. It's so embarassing.
Me: Yes. One time my husband's friend was in here with his 2 boys while Zachary was throwing a fit. I was mortified. Have you tried bribery? That sometimes works...
OM: I've already promised Chuck E. Cheese after this ordeal.
Me: Other moms used to always tell me that it will get better. I didn't believe them, and seriously thought he would be screaming about haircuts till he went to college. But one day it did get better. It will happen.
OM: Thanks. I hope so.

And as we were leaving, her little boy was in the early stages of a haircut fit, and her face was turning redder and redder.

So to all you moms who think that haircuts will always be miserable, please know this too shall pass. And if bribery doesn't work for your child, you could always give yourself a little treat for surviving the harrowing ordeal.

:)

C is for Cowboy

2010-01-22T16:39:00.000-06:00

Today was Cowboy Dress Up day at Zachary's school. Thanks to the Grandmas for the gear...

He's a Wanted Man! aka 'Mad Face'

My Hero!

Rock Star Cowboy

2010-01-17T22:27:00.002-06:00

After dinner at Grandma and Grandpa M's on Sunday, Zachary decided to serenade us with some silly songs. Doesn't he look great as a cowboy? I think he's ready to tour...

Fort Worth Stock Show

2010-01-16T16:53:00.000-06:00

Aunt Mandy had the great idea of taking the kids to the stock show parade that she and I both marched in as high school students. We found a great spot on Main Street (front end of the parade) and watched for about an hour till the kids got antsy. Then we went for a great lunch at Billy Miner's, where Zachary agreed it was the best hot dog ever, and finally enjoyed some play time at Auntie's!

Auntie Mandy and Sophie

The Kids watching all the horses

Stop saying Poop so Loud - But Daddy it's STINKY!

Best Hot Dog Ever!

Sophie and Daisy Kissing

Again - Sophie decided that closed mouth is the way to go!

Full Moon

2010-01-02T21:45:00.001-06:00

I guess I forgot to change Sophie's diaper after her nap, and then forgot again after dinner. Finally she just got tired of it being wet and decided to do something about it herself...

December 2009 Photos

2009-12-31T16:26:00.000-06:00

A Tale of 12 Cookies

2009-12-24T23:48:00.000-06:00

Sophie really enjoyed Christmas Eve! Between the food, snow and cookies she was one happy kid!

White Christmas!

2009-12-24T21:37:00.000-06:00

On the way home from our 'date' on Christmas Eve Eve, Katey and I heard a weather report that it was supposed to snow. Haha, I said. Never going to happen. Maybe a few flakes, but it won't stick.

And then God laughed at me.

Folks, it snowed enough to cancel Christmas Eve service at several churches, and for us to make a snowman. It started around 9:30 AM and lasted almost 12 hours. Woo Hoo! I'm sure it will never happen again, so we took lots of pictures to show the kids.

Wow - it really looks like Christmas!

Shoveling Snow - the job of every male child!

Poor Sophie - it was SOO cold!

Zachary and the Snowman!

Sophie and the Snowman

Grandma M and Michael

Even the Horned Frog got snow!

Sad Saturday

2009-12-06T23:33:00.001-06:00

Football Saturday is supposed to be a LOT of fun! This Saturday was set up to be a big day for TCU. We weren't playing, but all the teams around us were, and BCS implications were in the air!

Game 1 - Cincy vs. Pitt - heartbreaker of a game, in the snow in Pittsburgh. It all came down to missed PAT and field goals. Cincy barely won, but I still hoped that the rest of the day would turn out better.
Game 2 - Florida vs. Alabama - I'm actually OK with this upset.
Game 3 - Nebraska vs. Texas - I wore red all day to show my support of Nebraska. UT did not play well (Mack Brown - please review the tape - apparently we were watching two different games), and yet they managed to win at the very last second.

And so, TCU's hopes for the National Championship have been dashed. It will be little consolation when UT gets creamed by Alabama. TCU will play Boise State (again) in an effort to not embarrass a BCS Conference Team. Check out the Star-Telegram for some fairly insightful editorials regarding the TCU bowl situation. And I will watch from the comfort of my home, cheering on the Mighty Mighty Horned Frogs to victory, AGAIN!

TCU Tree Lighting

2009-12-02T21:41:00.000-06:00

Zachary and I went to the tree lighting again this year, and invited our dear friends, Ms. Kendra and Gwen, to join us. We had a wonderful time!

Reindeer brought in for the kids to see

Us - trying to stay warm!

The Happy Kiddos

Me and My Buddy!

The Kids and Mr. and Mrs. Claus - in their special TCU attire

Let it Snow, Part I

2009-12-02T16:38:00.000-06:00

We woke up this morning to SNOW!!! Thanks to Daddy for calling so Zachary and I could play in it for a few minutes! It kept snowing till around 9, so Sophie got to see it too. She thought the snow was bubbles, but once she figured it out, she loved it!

November 2009

2009-11-30T22:36:00.000-06:00

TCU vs New Mexico

2009-11-28T23:42:00.000-06:00

24 hours after arriving home from Philly, we were on our way to the last home TCU game of the season. It was a beautiful day, we were able to see several friends, and enjoyed the parachuter at halftime.

Philly Trip

2009-11-27T23:10:00.021-06:00

Note to readers: Philadelphia will be referred to as Philly here on out after several pronounciation attempts by Zachary resulted in "Philadorthea". We officially give up, and rename the place, "Philly".

After some thought, we decided to join the Casey side of the family in Philly for Thanksgiving. The Mathis family planned to drive up from Atlanta, and we agreed it was time for Sophie's first plane ride.

After a near heart attack inducing delay announcement, and subsequent cancellation of said delay (unfortunately after I spent a small fortune in ice cream to keep us entertained), we boarded the plane to Phily and arrived with little excitement.

We got to the Cliggett's house and got settled in, and had a great time catching up with the family. The Agstens and Mathises came over and all the kids started playing right away!

On Wednesday, the men folk had a morning tee time and enjoyed a rainy day of golf while the ladies did some Thanksgiving prep - pie baking, etc. We had a great time at the Agstens for dinner that night!

Thanksgiving day started innocently enough, till the grass caught on fire. No fire pit for us. :(
It was wonderful to all be together, laughing, talking, gambling, etc.

Friday we packed up for our big trip home, and everyone suprised me with an early birthday card. I cried, of course.

We made it back, safe and sound, and our flight arrived 1 hour early. The kids were beat, and glad to be back home, but I hope that at least Zachary has memories of this trip for a long time.

Steve and Janice on Thanksgiving Day

Zachary and Charlie Munn - Check out the matching eyebrows!

Sophie and Auntie Gina

Renee, Casey, Cynthia, and Maryann

Kristen and Kaitlyn

All the cousins - Kristen, Casey, Mike, Will, Eric, Sean, Renee, Megan, Kaitlyn, TJ, Savannah, Caroline, Charlie, Alana, Kylie, Charlie, Lexie, Zachary and Sophie

Should have taken a pic of the grownups too, but they were: MaryAnn, Billy, Wendy, Cynthia, Scooter, Janice, Steve, Gina, Tom, Steven, Becky, Ashton

I feel like I'm forgetting someone, so whomever that is, I am sorry!!

It was a wonderful Thanksgiving, and I hope we can do it again!

Happy Birthday, Grandma M!

2009-11-20T23:31:00.000-06:00

Grandma isn't going to be here for her birthday, so we celebrated by having dinner and dessert tonight!

From November 2009

15 Month Well Check

2009-11-16T16:31:00.003-06:00

Sophie had her 15 month well check today. This makes 3 doctor visits in 16 days. And we wonder where the runny nose came from... :)

Anywho, she's doing great.

Weight: 25.5 lbs - 85%
Height: 32 1/8 " - 92%
Head Circumference: 18.25" - 64%

Only one shot today, and she recovered quickly from that. Thank goodness we like the nurses and Dr. Young so much!

We're Back

2009-11-09T16:38:00.003-06:00

Today we darkened the doorstep of Young Kids Pediatrics once again. Sophie had her stitches successfully removed with only a small bit of crying, and has been vaccinated against swine flu. The ER doc did a great job with the stitches and the healing is going well. I've been told the scar will grow back into her hairline. Who knew?

See you again next week - same time, same place!

Stitches and Swine

2009-11-06T16:35:00.000-06:00

Today we headed to Dr. Young's office to see about getting Sophie's stitches removed and to de-swine both the kids. Stitches weren't ready yet, so we'll be back Monday for that and Sophie's swine flu shot. Zachary got to have the Swine Flu Mist, which was very good news because I was about to have a red alert situation on my hands if he had to get another shot. Whew!

Grace is Just a Name

2009-11-03T16:06:00.004-06:00

Sophie got my eyes. She also got my grace. Or complete lack thereof. Yikes!

Tuesdays are our free days. Usually we run errands and then go somewhere fun. Zachary begged today to go to Happy Hopperz, so after a quick lunch, off we went. I had visions of perusing catalogs and making some phone calls while the wee ones jumped themselves exhausted, followed by long naps at home. At that moment, God laughed.

We arrived, Zachary began jumping, I signed the waiver, paid the owner, and set Sophie on her way to play. I settled down with catalog #1, and glanced up to see Sophie lying face down on the carpet. As this is a fairly regular occurence, I didn't rush right over, but waited to see if she was going to cry. She did, so I scooped her up, only to realize that her head was bleeding. (The culprit was a plastic shape sorting block, and as she fell "superman style" she must have forgotten to drop the block. Looking back, we realized that she could have lost her eye if her arms had been a bit shorter.) As I applied pressure with tissues, I realized this was no surface abrasion, but an actual wound. The other parent there informed us he was a former paramedic, so we put him to work. After using a butterfly and regular bandaid to cover the wound, he suggested that we go to the ER for stitches. God bless Grandma T for coming to play with Zachary while I took Sophie to Harris SW.

*Sidebar 1- we did not go to Cook Children's as swine and regular flu are fairly prevalent here and I was not about to take her in for stitches only to come out with swine/regular flu.*
*Sidebar 2 - while waiting for Grandma to arrive, Sophie did not want to be held, coddled, and/or comforted. She wanted to jump and play, which is exactly what she did. And when we left Happy Hopperz, she was screaming and very upset with me.

We got all checked in at Harris SW. Sophie was very friendly with all the other patients and hospital staff (perhaps in anticipation of future visits). Steve came and met us at the hospital and she was so glad to see him. Good thing he came, too, b/c I have misplaced Sophie's insurance card. Oops!

The nurse applied anesthetic via cotton ball and bandaid, and then the doctor and nurse came back to do the stitching. She was swaddled with a large sheet to keep her immobilized during the stitching and she cried but otherwise did ok. She got three stitches, and after a few minutes of comforting was ready to be on her way.

Although this was our first visit to the ER, I'm sure it won't be our last, especially with Little Ms. Adventurous, and I'm so thankful it went as well as it did.

And a quick Thank You to the Happy Hopperz owner for the Get Well card he sent to Sophie. I promise we will come back. :)

October Photos

2009-10-31T23:07:00.000-05:00

Pumpkin Carving

2009-10-25T17:50:00.000-05:00

Steve helped Zachary carve his pumpkins today! They had a great time and the pumpkins turned out great!

Proof

2009-10-25T13:54:00.000-05:00

Zachary doesn't look a whole lot like me, but here is proof that he's my child:

He ate whipped cream for brunch. He did not use it as a topping for anything. :)

Pumpkin Patch Day

2009-10-20T16:44:00.000-05:00

Today we met my friends Tiffany and Amanda for lunch in Addison. I thought it would be fun for the kids to visit a pumpkin patch while we were up there. It was a beautiful day! We had such a great time being outside, and the kids were so well behaved!

We got to feed the goats,

go on a hayride,

go on a barrel ride (note to grown ups - think small when you are getting in the barrels),

pet a horse, see some chickens,

go through a corn maze (Zachary was Sophie's helper)

and play in a pumpkin patch!

Well, Zachary played while Sophie played in my purse.

Thanks for a fun day kids!!!

I Hope You Dance

2009-10-18T22:25:00.002-05:00

Both my kids love music and love to dance. Zachary is also our resident singer (although I think Sophie will help him out with that soon), and has some moves that would make Elvis jealous. Sophie has learned how to twirl and has the best time doing it! Just watch out - she gets dizzy pretty quickly!

Sophie Speaks

2009-10-18T22:21:00.002-05:00

Sophie has been saying Mama for a while, but mostly as a term of endearment, and not usually directed at me. Lately, though, she has added some words to her vocabulary:

Da Da (also term of endearment)
Ca Ca (cracker - anything crunchy)
Guck (duck)
Go (as in Ready Set Go)
Eye (while poking her finger in mine)
Fsh (fish)
Dog barking, elephant trumpet, and lion roar
Berries (strawberries)

We're on the road to conversation!!!

Dry All Night

2009-10-18T22:14:00.002-05:00

** WARNING: This post contains information about my child's toileting habits. Feel free to skip it! :)

About a year ago, Zachary was able to make the transition from diapers and pull ups to underwear while he was awake. He's had very few accidents and has done really well. Over the last few weeks, we've been working on keeping his pull up dry while sleeping. He's been pretty successful, and we are so proud.

Keep a good thought for Zachary so he can go 7 days with a dry pullup at night. Then he can go from a toddler day bed to a big boy bed!

Sophie's New Discovery

2009-10-16T11:35:00.001-05:00

Sophie decided to climb in a drawer today!

It was so cute, but I realized that our girl could break the drawer, so we relocated her to the laundry basket.

Fun times!

Haunted Gingerbread House

2009-10-11T11:30:00.001-05:00

Yesterday we went with Grandma and Grandpa M and Mrs. Christensen to Granbury in search of pumpkins. Zachary and Daddy selected a very large pumpkin (to be carved at a later date) and Sophie and I found some to be decorated with paints, etc.

This morning, Zachary and I went to Michael's to get paints and other decorations for our pumpkins and came across a haunted gingerbread house decorating kit. I thought it would be so fun after last year's Christmas gingerbread decorating, and it was! Grandma T came over to help with the decorating and Zachary did a great job putting all the candy around the house.

Here's our spooky house...

Super Saturday

2009-10-03T13:48:00.000-05:00

Our family was all in one place, it was a beautiful morning, and we had nowhere to be. OMG - first time in FOREVER!!

We decided to load up the kids for the Kids Festival at Calloway's Nursery. They had popcorn, balloons, pumpkin patches and decorating, a make-your-own slime center, and a Mad Scientist, all for FREE. Wow! It was a lot of fun walking around looking at all the plant, and Z made quite a creation.

After the festival we decided to stay outdoors and headed up to the central market playground for more fun. The kids had a great time and we enjoyed an outdoor lunch. Aunt Mandy joined us for a little bit, and we ran into some old Little Gym friends, Brooklynn, Luke and Miss Whitney.

Best part of the whole day, though, was my Zachary asking some big kid: "You want a bite of me?" Bless that sweet kid for not laughing in his face. :)

Friday Zoo Day

2009-10-02T22:53:00.001-05:00

Decided that it was time to take advantage of the weather, packed a picnic, loaded up Sophie, got Z from school and headed to the zoo. We had a nice lunch and walked to Texas in search of the merry go round. The kids loved the merry go round, and then we had a nice train ride (round trip of course).

We took a good amount of time looking at the animals in Texas. This is usually our last stop, so we end up going quickly. This time we watched the sea otters for a while, explored the gulf coast exhibit (Z touched a star fish!), went through the rattlesnake and bat exhibit (yuck!) and walked back to the front.

Thankfully, the penguins were back from vacation and we got to watch a feeding and see them swimming. Sophie loved it, as did Zachary. On our way out, we also got to peek at the kangaroos and fish in the Australia section.

To top it all off, both kids slept in the car on the way home!

We are so lucky to have such a wonderful zoo, and it was the perfect day to enjoy it!

September 2009

2009-09-30T21:41:00.000-05:00

Zachary's 4 year Checkup

2009-09-29T13:52:00.002-05:00

Height - 39 1/8" (24%)
Weight - 33 1/4 lb (25%)
Blood Pressure - 96/56 (normal)
In the meantime...
Vision - 20/30 (very normal for 4 years old)
Hearing - no problem

Poor buddy had to get 5 pokes in his arms and 1 finger prick. Yikes! Thankfully this is it for vaccinations till he's 11, with the exception of flu yearly (and next year I'm planning on FluMist).

These pokes cost me ice cream later - cotton candy and pink lemonade sorbet mixed together. He picked.

Dr. Young also detected an ear infection, so now it's Z's turn for the antibiotics. :(

He's growing great, talking well, and doing everything a normal boy his age should be. We are so lucky to have our Little Buddy in our lives!!

Dear Birthday Boy

2009-09-21T22:19:00.000-05:00

My Dear Zachary,
4 years ago we welcomed you into the world. I had no idea that you would grow up to be such a sweet little boy and that I could love you this much! I am so proud of everything you are learning - to play baseball, to play golf, to ride your Big Wheel, about the states, our country and the world, your manners, and how to be brave. I am so proud of how you treat others, and how much you care for your sister and family. You are so generous with your love! I love how curious and mischevious you are, and that you love to giggle!
You are my silliest goose, my little buddy and my best boy!
Love,
Mommy

Zachary is 4

2009-09-21T22:15:00.000-05:00

Zachary turned 4 today. We had the family over for dinner - breakfast at dinner! My silly buddy loves when we do this and it was so fun for his special birthday! We were so lucky to have Grandma M, Grandma T, Grandpa H, Gee Gee and Bubbe join us to celebrate his actual birthday! Unfortunately, the storms rolled in and the Hollander group was unable to stay for cake and ice cream. Darn those Texas storms!
Zachary loved all his gifts and we had a really nice evening!

A House Divided

2009-09-19T22:07:00.004-05:00

TCU vs. Southwest Texas State (or whatever it's called these days)

We all went to the game... it was actually pretty fun, considering how crowded and humid it was. Sophie was very busy taking it all in, and Zachary had a great time. That school in San Marcos actually held their own during the first half - when we were there. As soon as we left, the Frogs took it to them, showing them the way a REAL football team plays. (haha!)

Lots of snacks kept everyone happy till the end of the 2nd quarter (Zachary still thinks the game is over then) and we left very satisfied with our football experience. Now if we could just find a closer parking spot...

GO FROGS!!

Happy Birthday Party #4

2009-09-19T15:58:00.000-05:00

Zachary's 4th Birthday Party was held at Jumping Party. He had a great time with his friends and family. The grandmas even got in on the jumping action!!! After cake and ice cream, Zachary was very proud to hand out party favors (kites) to his guests and thank them for coming to celebrate his birthday! A good time was had by all!

First Day of Museum School

2009-09-17T14:23:00.000-05:00

Today was the first day of Museum School. Museum School is a big deal in Fort Worth. People used to camp out overnight on the sidewalk outside the museum just to get their child in. Seriously. Now you just mail in a form - thank goodness!
Zachary was a bit apprehensive, but we started the day at the Bagel Store with the McDaniels. Zachary and Gwen were in the same class so that helped. We got there a bit early so we were waiting when the teachers opened the door. They whisked Zachary inside before he had a chance to shed a tear. When I picked him up, he had a great time and could not wait to go back. I'm so glad that he will get to have this experience with his friends!

PS - All this was topped off by a visit to Chuck E. Cheese with Grandpa H and Grandma T. Woo Hoo!!!

He's a Travelin' Man

2009-09-14T21:45:00.000-05:00

Zachary and I had quite an adventure this week. We flew to Georgia to take care of his cousins while their parents were in Italy (jealous!). With all the hassles with flying these days, I was a little apprehensive, but Zachary was so great.

First, our flights were on time and uneventful. Second, we were able to carry on our luggage. Third, the DVD player was fully charged and ready to go. Zachary was a great listener, and pretty easy going the whole trip.

We enjoyed lunch at the Varsity by Georgia Tech, the Georgia Aquarium, the World of Coke, the mall, a bounce house visit, his first movie theater movie, and a parade, in addition to numerous car pools, drop offs, lessons and church events.

This mommy-buddy time was much overdue and I hope that we can continue to do these trips as he gets older.

PS - if you ever are in need of a traveling companion, Zachary would love to go. Has Lovey, will travel. :)

Georgia Aquarium

2009-09-09T21:51:00.002-05:00

Next time you see Zachary, ask him how the aquarium was. I bet you $5 his response will be very close to:
We saw a show and things came out of the TV and the Jellyfish stung me and we got wet and I was scared and it was loud and there were scary things that came out of the TV!

Note to self: My almost 4 year old is not ready for the 3 and 4-D movie experience.

Falling - with Style

2009-09-04T21:46:00.000-05:00

Poor Zachary - he comes by this naturally. See, his mom is a clutz. Always has been. I trip up stairs and on flat surfaces. I fall out of chairs for no reason. I regularly have bruises and can't remember the cause.

Yesterday:

He was running in the Shack and fell, Superman style, face first on the carpet tiles. Not so soft. Bruised shins, skinned elbow, and skinned palm. Yowza!

Today:

He was running out to greet Daddy home from a trip. Falls in the middle of the driveway. Didn't twist his ankle. Just fell and scraped his foot.

My question: should I invest in the parent companies of Neosporin and Band-Aid??

August 2009

2009-08-31T21:18:00.000-05:00

All Hail the King

2009-08-18T22:03:00.000-05:00

Scene: driving up Bryant Irvin

Zachary: "Mommy, I don't want to be a prince anymore."

Me: "OK..."

Zachary: "I want to be King!"

Me: "Yes, your majesty! I'll alert the masses." accompanied by major eye rolling

Sophie's 12 Month Check Up

2009-08-17T16:50:00.002-05:00

Doctor said she looks great! She was very cooperative, except during the 4 shots (to be expected).

Vital stats are:
Height - 30 3/8 inches - 87%
Weight - 24 lb, 2 oz - 90%
Head - 18" - 70%

Doctor Young has also encouraged me to quit bottles cold turkey. I haven't given in - so far. We'll see what tonight brings. :)

Happy Birthday to Sophie!

2009-08-15T21:37:00.001-05:00

Dear Sophie,
One year ago today, I was in labor with you (please see last year's 8/15 entry for all the gory details), and then I welcomed you into the world. We first got to know each other during late night feedings and watching the Olympic Games. You kept your light eyes, and your hair got lighter. You loved your brother instantly, and bonded with your Daddy after he passed your crying test. You've learned to eat solid food, sit up, crawl, bear crawl, and walk. You love bath time, music class, and your frog lovey. You're not easily impressed, but you're a shameless flirt. Both skills will serve you well later in life.
I hope you enjoyed your family time, party, and dinner today. I know you liked the cake (as any daughter of mine should)! I am so proud of you and I know you will do great things!
Love,
Mommy

And She's Off!

2009-08-13T23:06:00.000-05:00

Sophie has officially started walking today. She's trying to get from point A to point B and is pretty successful. Yay Sophie!!!

Fear of Flying

2009-08-10T16:46:00.002-05:00

I have never been afraid of flying, even with my child, until I heard about passengers being trapped on planes for hours at a time. This is the latest instance, and I am infuriated.

1 - Why didn't the passengers do something? Ideas for things to do include:
a - call the airline
b - call a family member
c - call the police
d - fake a heart attack
e - fake an asthma attack

2 - Why didn't the employees do something? Ideas for things to do include:
a - open a door
b - go against 'orders/protocol/etc' and get the passengers out in a safe manner

3 - How is this even allowed to happen?
When did we stop caring about how we treat others? What if the airline president's mother/father/spouse/child had been on that plane? Or better yet, the airline president him/herself?

Within all the 'rules' we have forgotten how to be human, how to show a little compassion and decency toward another.

More to come as I organize my thoughts...

July 2009 Photos

2009-07-31T10:31:00.000-05:00

Tummy Yuck!

2009-07-30T10:51:00.000-05:00

Zachary has had diarrhea just once in his life (sorry again, Jason's Deli), and hopefully Sophie will be a "one and done" kind of girl too! It all started Sunday afternoon with a minor diaper leak. Monday was traumatic for all involved, and Tuesday wasn't much better. I have now tried all diaper creams and various wipes, done lots of laundry on "HOT" and de-germed this house more times than I can count. Thankfully, all appears to be back to normal, and we can move on. Whew!

BTW - In the battle of the diaper creams, Boudreaux's Butt Paste wins hands down. I recommend Bag Balm for chapped skin. And what I'd really like to find is a spray on diaper cream. Any suggestions?

First Police Chase

2009-07-29T13:37:00.000-05:00

Disclaimer: We were not being chased!

As we exited Zachary's school today, I heard sirens. This is not unusual as there is a fire station about 2 blocks away. Then a black SUV with damage to the front left side came tearing through the parking lot with a police car right on its tail, narrowly missing my parked car. We hurried back inside as the director and another teacher came out to see what was going on. Poor kids were very upset (as was mommy) but calmed down pretty quickly. Zachary wanted to know what was going on so I had to explain that there were some people doing 'not nice things'. The police were trying to get them and take them to time out.

Hopefully this experience deters him from a life of crime. :)

Zachary's First Vacation Bible School

2009-07-17T16:31:00.002-05:00

Zachary attended his first Vacation Bible School this week at St. Matthew's. Although he was a bit unsure about being at church without mom and dad, he ended up having a great time! He made some new friends, enjoyed playing with Charlotte, and had lots of fun making things and singing songs.

And so, St. Matthew's is seeing the 'next generation' of Moroneso kids begin their youth participation. I wonder if they'll be as mischevious as the last? :)

11 months old...

2009-07-15T22:35:00.002-05:00

Time sure does fly!
Seems like just yesterday I was pushing Sophie out (sans meds, need I remind you), and today she is 11 months old and we are working on her first birthday party. Zachary's first year went by so slow, especially compared to Sophie's. I am happy to report she is crawling well, standing on her own, very curious (nothing escapes her mouth), and a pretty happy baby. She is most giggly when she is sleepy, but will usually share a smile with her brother or during a game of peek a boo. Sophie crawls on tile and other uncomfortable surfaces just like Zachary - "gimpy" as Auntie Mandy would say. She's a great sleeper still, which is such a blessing, and she has 7 teeth.

I imagine she'll be walking by August 15, 2009, and talking a bit. Our girl is really growing up!

The Gift

2009-07-12T15:54:00.002-05:00

I have married into a family where most men possess a special gift with women. I've heard the stories and seen it in action. My father in law has it, my husband certainly has it, and I figured my son would inherit it too, right along with the black hair and deep brown eyes.

Zachary has been honing his craft over the years, first trying it out on grandmas (highly successful), then cousins and aunties (all adoring fans now), the ladies at church (he was slipped a piece of communion bread about a year after his baptism), and various babysitters.

Last night, he pulled out all the stops and managed to stay up till 10:30 PM with Ms. Sarah rubbing his back and the light still on. When Mommy and Daddy got home and saw all this going on, the thing that first caught our attention was the gleam in his eye and the sly smile on his face.

Ladies of the world, let this serve as your warning - Zachary Moroneso has found his gift and he is not afraid to use it!

Cousins

2009-07-10T17:15:00.000-05:00

It's hard to believe that 5 years ago, Megan and Kaitlyn were flower girls in our wedding. Now they are young ladies. Here are all the cousins at the end of the Texas trip!

Anniversary Trip

2009-07-08T17:11:00.000-05:00

We headed down to San Antonio with hopes that we would get at least one day of vacation in before being called home to attend to inconsolable children. We managed to complete our whole vacation (10 meals without kids) with no desperate pleas to return home!
Thank you to the Mathis family for taking such great care of our kids, and thank you to my fabulous husband for a great trip and for being such a fantastic husband and parenting partner!!

Happy Fourth of July!

2009-07-04T21:26:00.000-05:00

When Janice decided to come with her family for a visit, I invited everyone to my parents new house (that they weren't living in yet) to celebrate the 4th. They have a great view of several firework shows from their patio and front yard. Dad cooked awesome sliders and we had lots of great food!

Sophie got settled in her 'bed' just before the shows started and Zachary liked the fireworks much better when he couldn't hear the sounds.