Life's Little Moments

Finally an Update

2011-10-04T16:26:00.004-05:00

Well it's been such a long time. Computer problems, photo problems, and just lack of will and time have left this blog empty. But finally today I did it. As you can see Joel and Abby are growing. Abby turned 2 in July and keeps us smiling. Joel started first grade, loves playing sports, and finally mastered riding his bike without training wheels. We are building a house...a long project still going. We added another member to our family.....Cocoa the kitty. She is actually pretty sweet considering she has to put up with a two year old. I am so thankful for fall. It's been a refreshing time after a long hot and difficult summer. Thankful for God's faithfulness along this journey of life.

Easter

2011-04-20T14:17:00.002-05:00

Happy Easter!

So Sweet

2011-01-06T22:10:00.000-06:00

These two make me smile!

the Head

2010-12-03T13:43:00.000-06:00

Here are a few photos of Abby today...and her poor head.

Joy

2010-12-03T13:16:00.001-06:00

We spent some time decorating the tree and dancing around to Christmas music. I got a few photos while we were in the process. Unfortunately what is not in the photo is Abby hitting her on the piano seconds after the pictures. No stitches but did have to visit the hospital for some steri strips...right on the front of her forehead. She has a huge bruise and cut in the middle of her head just in time for Christmas!

Halloween

2010-11-02T13:40:00.000-05:00

Here's a few photos from Halloween. We didn't do a great job at photos...neither wanted to cooperate! Maybe we will put them on again and get some more photos!

Enjoy

2010-10-27T23:20:00.000-05:00

Just a quick few photos for you to enjoy. I know I sure enjoy these sweet ones!

A look Back

2010-09-28T14:19:00.000-05:00

Amazing to put photos next to each other and see how much Joel has grown. Enjoying this beautiful weather. Will hopefully get outside and take some new pictures.

My Daddy

2010-09-28T14:05:00.001-05:00

Abby has already figured out Daddy loves her and will do whatever she wants...as the pictures show. First she's telling me "watch this mom." Then she starts to give daddy the hint that she wants something...next is pointing even more directly and has him standing up...and finally she's swinging. Just what she wanted in the first place!

School School

2010-09-01T11:22:00.001-05:00

School started for Joel. This is a pic from the first day of school last week. He is just so big now...he's grown up so much over the summer. And while Joel is at school Abby and I are having fun playing. She loves to play peek-a-boo behind the curtains in her room. Enjoy.

Photos of Summer

2010-08-13T18:46:00.001-05:00

Love this little chair...it was in front of an amazing little store in Seaside. I won't tell you that she fell out of the chair a second after the photo....but without injury.

On the front porch of a Seaside store...love this photo. Wish Abby was looking...

A few more photos from our beach trip...and the photo of Joel at the bottom is from today. I love those eyes. Soaking up these days before school starts.

Rosemary Beach

2010-07-30T00:20:00.000-05:00

We returned home this evening from a wonderful time at Rosemary Beach. Love this little community. Here are a few photos of our time there. It was Abby's first time to the ocean. She did like the water but mostly liked to sit in the chair under the umbrella and have snacks! Joel loved searching for seashells and he learned to snorkel. We already are thinking of when we can go back...hopefully sooner than later!

Abby's First Birthday

2010-07-11T22:32:00.002-05:00

Abby's first birthday was Saturday. I won't go into how I can't believe she's one and how I am going to miss these baby days....ok well I know I did. But really as her mother, I keep wondering "Where did my little baby go?" Oh how I love this little girl!

We had a ladybug party here at home with family and friends. It was actually fun...and I think Abby enjoyed herself. She danced and played keeping all of us entertained. Here are a few photos...more to come.

11 Months

2010-06-09T19:20:00.001-05:00

Tomorrow Abby will be 11 months old. One month away from her birthday. I guess I better get to planning. She is so smart, beautiful, fun and a blessing to us! (and almost fully mobile...I think she'll be walking by her birthday).

Life has been rather busy. I've been blessed with spending some time away at one of my favorite places on earth, Lake Forest Ranch. Even better, I was able to spend some time with some very special people. Then to top it off, David Wilcox came here in concert last Friday night. He puts into words and music what my heart seems know and need.

On the home front we are enjoying these lazy days of summer. Joel is taking swimming lessons, Abby has been sleeping better, and we've been spending some time at the pool. We tried the zoo this morning but didn't stay long until the sun came out and it was too warm for these fair skinned red heads. That's it for now!

It's Back!

2010-05-04T22:21:00.001-05:00

My camera is back! I had to get outside and take photos today. Beautiful weather...love love love my kids (and my camera)!

Joel's Surprise Rumble Birthday Party

2010-05-02T23:15:00.000-05:00

We had a great time celebrating Joel's 6th birthday. Rumble, the mascot for our NBA Thunder came for a big surprise. Joel was so very excited (as all the kids were). I'll admit even all the adults were enjoying it. Most importantly, it was a great day to celebrate Joel. We love him so much!

9 Months

2010-04-14T15:50:00.000-05:00

Abby turned 9 months this past Saturday. She is just such a blessing to us. She is learning so fast...right now as I type Joel is "hopping" and she is sitting in her highchair watching him and trying to "hop" like him.

On another note, I am mourning because my camera (my slr) "died" last week and had to be sent into Nikon. I am lost without it! Of course Joel's birthday is next week, we had Easter, and Abby is getting bigger everyday...all that to say I need my camera! I'm praying for it to be returned soon! I never realized the "love affair" I have with my camera until I have had to go back to using the old point and shoot. It just isn't the same!

Enjoying beautiful weather, planting flowers, wagon rides, and our afternoons outdoors. In fact, I think that's where we are off to right now!

Happy Easter

2010-04-06T22:35:00.000-05:00

A Few More

2010-03-16T16:19:00.000-05:00

A few more photos...had to show you my sweet boy.

8 Months

2010-03-16T16:04:00.000-05:00

Abby turned 8 months last week. She is a busy little girl. Happy, crawling, clapping, smiling, pulling up (and falling alot). I am enjoying every minute with her. Loving these sweet days with her knowing they go so fast.

Brother and Sister

2010-03-02T19:25:00.001-06:00

I have to say Joel is such a great brother to Abby. He loves her, is most often kind and gentle with her, and in turn she loves him sooooo much. No one can make her smile and squeal in delight like her brother. During the day when we are alone at home, she is looking for him in every room just hoping he'll jump and say "Abby!" like only he does.

Abby loves playing the piano lately. (Both the toy piano and the real one). Joel is busy with school and is still loving his legos. Hoping for some warm weather so we can get outside...hopefully soon. Spring break is coming.

Growing...

2010-02-11T12:22:00.000-06:00

Abby turned 7 months old yesterday. She is so much fun now. As you can see she loves playing with toys and is quite active. She is already rocking up on her arms and knees trying to scoot and crawl. Everything goes in her mouth...everything. I guess I had forgotten over the past 5 years what that was like! Joel had a program at school Tues. night. He is just such a sweet and handsome boy.

Trying to stay warm here...talk about a cold winter. I think this is the most snow I've seen in years. It is pretty but enough for now. I don't live in Colorado for a reason!

Wishing everyone a Happy Valentine's Day this weekend. Love to you!

Finally

2010-01-31T22:18:00.003-06:00

Finally getting around to writing again this new year. Life has been somewhat crazy this first month of the 2010. We've has some crazy days and crazy weather. Still have lots of snow and ice here...Joel sure enjoyed playing in the snow over the weekend (and missing 2 days of school last week). Abby is growing and sitting up now on her own and very interested in everything around her. Hard to believe she is well into her 6 month. Here are a few photos of late....

Firsts

2009-12-10T09:40:00.000-06:00

Abby is 5 months old today! She visited Santa with big brother this week....and had her first taste of carrots last night. So fun!

Enjoying our Days

2009-12-08T14:03:00.002-06:00

Decided I better get busy and take some more pics of my kiddos...Abby grows a little more everyday. She'll be 5 months old on Thursday. We went to the Dr. today for her check-up. She is doing great...and has a huge head (90th percentile on the growth chart)! She must get that from Paul! Truly she is doing so wonderful, sleeps great, and gets to start eating some real food. I think she is ready and hungry. I'm sure I'll takes some pics tonight of the experience.

Christmas decorating is done...at least all that I'm going to do. Tree up, lights on house, and stockings/decor up. My favorite is the Christmas music. I know I get that from my Nan (grandma). She always loves Christmas music and I do too...especially because it mostly points to the true reason we celebrate this season...Jesus. What are your favorite Christmas songs/cd's? I need a few new ones...any suggestions would be great! Love to all!

Thankful

2009-11-16T13:01:00.000-06:00

This time of year I am always a little more contemplative...and lately it seems I find myself attempting to be thankful for all God has given and to live in these present moments...taking them in and being present. Enjoying each moment I have with my sweet baby girl and sweet boy. Already I'm wondering where have the moments/days/weeks gone? Enjoyed my Nan and Mom coming to visit last week. You can see the sweet pic of Abby and my Nan. Joel is just growing...growing in every way.
Thankful today for my family being well and healthy, for music that encourages me, and for the amazing way God chose to save us...Jesus as a baby. I can't help but hold Abby and think about how Jesus came. Really? A baby? We talk about it this time of year but when you stop and think...really let your heart wonder...Jesus came as a precious vulnerable baby and chose to come for us. Truly it is a mystery. Isn't it amazing the way He came.

Hello Friday

2009-11-06T10:05:00.000-06:00

Abby is 16 weeks old today and isn't she the cutest! Joel has been sick all week with the flu. He still isn't feeling great but I think he's getting better (I pray). Still Abby remains flu free and I sure hope she doesn't get it. Poor Joel...I hate seeing my children sick. Hope we can enjoy this beautiful weather over the weekend.

Happy Halloween

2009-11-01T09:05:00.000-06:00

Weekend fun again

2009-10-27T13:21:00.000-05:00

These pics won't open now from the post a few days ago so here are the pics that should have been there...I can't figure out how to fix the others....

Toothless?

2009-10-27T10:25:00.000-05:00

Joel had a surprise for me when I picked him up from school yesterday. Another tooth gone....his top front tooth. He pulled it himself at school and got 6 dollars from the tooth fairy. We took these pics this morning...didn't get around to taking them last night. Abby was enjoying playing with her brother this morning before school.

Happy Friday

2009-10-23T10:25:00.001-05:00

Dr. Abby...isn't this cute? A gift from Paul's cousin.

Happy Friday from Abby...I think she is looking alot like me in my baby photos....and the last photo is Paul's latest new toy. No comment. Hope we get that tax credit! Abby is 15 weeks old today.

Weekend Fun

2009-10-18T10:57:00.001-05:00

We enjoyed going to the pumpkin patch this weekend...hayride, petting zoo, and hot chocolate made for a great time. Abby was with us, but bundled in her seat and all covered up. It was chilly....cold for a baby girl yet perfect for pumpkins and hayrides.

3 Months...

2009-10-11T15:07:00.001-05:00

Abby turned 3 months on Saturday...took some photos yesterday and today. Isn't she beautiful? Happy 3rd month birthday Abby. How about those chubby cheeks.....I love kissing those sweet cheeks. She is also sleeping so much better. Most nights she sleeps until 2am...eats...and then back to sleep until 6 or 7. Joel is really enjoying soccer. He had a game yesterday and scored a goal which made him very excited. Enjoying this cold weather but today is a little too cold for fall (41 degrees). Speaking of fall, this week is fall break. Will be attempting to drive to visit the grandparents with me and the 2 kiddos...could be interesting. We shall see. Happy Fall....

My Sweet Ones

2009-10-07T19:54:00.000-05:00

Thought I would finally post some new pics...we've had computer problems but I think we are good to go now. Joel is growing and lost his 2nd tooth as you can see in the photo. Abby will be 3 months old this Saturday. She started "talking" to us these last few days...making the sweetest little sounds. She also is just so happy now which makes all of us very happy! Enjoying these days and trying to take lots of photos and write down thoughts and the daily little things so I won't forget. So glad I get to stay home with my sweet ones and enjoy each moment. Loving this fall weather. Will try and take some more photos of Abby in the next few days for her 3 month birthday!

8 weeks and counting

2009-09-09T14:14:00.002-05:00

I took these photos of Abby last Friday...she turned 8 weeks old. The days are really going fast and she is growing! She is now 10.5 lbs and is just smiling and much happier these days. Although you can see she is showing her unhappy self in the photo with the black and white dress. Joel is enduring these first weeks of kindergarten. I say endure because he is not very happy about going everyday. Usually in the morning we have both kids crying...but Joel is getting better and we are praying he will get use to the new place and make some friends. Have a good week.

First Day Kindergarten

2009-08-31T09:59:00.000-05:00

Joel had his first day of kindergarten last Wednesday. It's so hard to believe he is old enough for kindergarten! Of course he had to wear his favorite star wars shirt. Daddy was able to go with us to take Joel to school for his first day, and that made Joel very happy! Today is the first full day and I'm praying he has a good day. Abby and I are enjoying our day at home together although it's way to quiet around here...missing our little boy. Isn't this weather amazing?! Maybe Abby and I will go for a walk.

Sweet Smile

2009-08-20T15:21:00.003-05:00

Thought I would share about Abby smiling her first real smile. Joel was talking to her and said, "mom, Abby smiled at me". Sure enough, she did and smiled at me a little later. What a precious smile! Abby will be 6 weeks old tomorrow...wow. Joel has been working on a legos star wars ship with Paul for a while and they finally finished it this week. He is so proud!

One Month Old

2009-08-11T16:47:00.000-05:00

Abby turned one month old yesterday and I'm one day behind but at least we are trying! Poor Abby is having some stomach trouble and we are hoping things get better. Please pray for her (and for sleepy parents) who want her to feel better. She is just so beautiful and precious. We love her so much and Joel is such a big helper. He is trying so hard to be understanding and he loves his sister! Happy one month birthday Abby!

2009-07-20T15:24:00.005-05:00

Just a few photos of miss Abby and Joel. Abby is now 10 days old and already the days are going so fast. I guess when your nights and days all run together it seems like one very long day. We are enjoying our sweet girl and thank God for her!

Abbygail Grace Arrives

2009-07-13T18:41:00.004-05:00

Abbygail Grace Yasuda arrived Friday, July 10th at 12:14pm. She weighed 7lbs 7oz and 19 1/2 inches long. She is healthy and precious. We are so excited and just love her so much already. Joel is so excited too...he wants to hold her all the time. We are home and doing well. More updates soon.

Last Day of School

2009-06-05T11:37:00.000-05:00

Thought I would share a few photos from Joel's last day of school.
He sure enjoyed this year and has grown so much in so many ways.
Still hard to believe it's summer. Joel has swimming lessons, a few
days of school planned for July, and of course we are awaiting the
arrival the sweet baby. Only 6 weeks left. Enjoying our days
together now...have a great weekend.

Pre-K Graduation

2009-05-20T23:50:00.000-05:00

Joel's graduation from Pre-K was today. He was precious and it was such a sweet time. So thankful for the time he spent here the last 3 years and how much he has learned. A great time and now it's summer...where does the time go?

More Disney

2009-05-05T10:54:00.000-05:00

Hello. Well, we've been home for a week but here a few more disney photos I thought I would share. Hope everyone is doing ok. I'm counting down 30 weeks this week and only 10 to go! I can't believe we will have a new member to our family very soon! In the mean time, school for Joel is winding down and we are busy getting ready for the baby. These rainy days are getting to me....ready for some sunshine! Have a good week everyone!

More disney Days

2009-04-24T22:18:00.001-05:00

Enjoyed a much more restful day today. We spent a couple of hourse in the lego store...can we say star wars legos? Joel had fun swimming and playing in the sand and he had been waiting to "build his own light saber" and he finally got to do that today.

Birthday

2009-04-24T09:14:00.000-05:00

Guess where we are? Joel's birthday was yesterday and he had a great time in Disneyworld. Enjoying our days here. Great weather and planning to take it easy today. (I need to take it easy after yesterday!) Love to all of you!

Birthday Celebration

2009-04-21T23:01:00.000-05:00

We celebrated Joel's 5th birthday this past weekend. He enjoyed time with his friends Tanner and Anna. Happy Birthday Joel!

Happy Easter

2009-04-12T18:01:00.000-05:00

Hello all and Happy Easter. Praying you remember Jesus' love for us and why we celebrate this day. Joel is sick and we didn't get to go to church. Praying he gets better soon. We did visit Nana and Papa for a little bit. We had to go ahead and get home though because of Joel not feeling well. Please pray for Joel. We aren't sure what's going on with him...some strange vomiting for the past couple of weeks and just not his normal. Thanks.

Busy

2009-04-08T21:27:00.000-05:00

A few photos of what we've been doing lately....school party and egg hunt, soccer, and basketball (Thunder) games. I'm 26 weeks along in this pregnancy and overall feeling really well. Looking forward to Joel's birthday in the next couple of weeks.

Circus Circus

2009-03-20T22:06:00.000-05:00

Joel's spring break included visiting Nana and Papa and going to the circus. Here's a few photos from the circus.

2009-02-27T15:56:00.000-06:00

A few photos from yesterday and the amazing weather we've had the last few days. Too bad it's chilly now and getting only colder! Joel of course doesn't look sick in the photos, but was sick most of this week with fever and a cough. He missed school all week and we took it easy here at home. We did go outside and play a bit. He found a feather floating and thought it was so funny to put it on his nose! I think the fever is gone and he's feeling much better today. Yeah! A week at home in the house is not my idea of fun, but we made it.
On another note, today I am 20 weeks....halfway point in this pregnancy. That is good news! I can't believe March is almost here and am looking forward to spring. Enjoying this phase of pregnancy. No sickness and feeling pretty good most of the time. I can't really complain. Hope everyone has a great weekend.

Some News

2009-02-09T16:28:00.002-06:00

I have been wanting to write and share some exciting news...I guess I wasn't sure of "when" to share. Many friends and family already know, but for the few I haven't been able to share with I thought I would finally try to write it in words. Yes, this July we will be adding to our family. I am almost 18 weeks pregnant. We are very excited, after thinking we might never have another child. I know God does things in His own time (not mine) and I am just so very thankful. I had finally thought I would be ok with just the three of us, and with Joel starting school next year I had been contemplating what I was going to do with myself. Well, God knew the answer.

I'm trying to spend my days enjoying each moment with Joel. I can't believe he will be 5 soon! I look at him and wonder where the days have gone. So I want to enjoy him now, while we have these few days to ourselves. I always ask God to write these special moments on my heart, knowing how easy it is to forget.

Have the windows open today and taking in some fresh air. Love these days in Feb. when it's warm and almost makes you think spring is here. I'll enjoy it today while I can! Off to blow bubbles with Joel.

Outside Yeah!

2009-01-21T19:16:00.000-06:00

Joel and I played a little outside today. Enjoyed getting out of the house with a boy who is tired of being inside! Everything was ok until Joel was looking down running and didn't look up to see the tree branch at eye level. I must admit I was sad that he was hurt, but it was one of those "funniest home video" moments where I wish I had been recording. He quickly recovered but was finished playing soccer. He is growing so fast. He just looks so much older to me. Although I guess he is getting older. I'm just in denial.

Happy New Year

2009-01-01T17:35:00.002-06:00

Happy New Year friends and family. Looking forward to the 2009 year, reflecting on all that has been and all that is to come. Last night we enjoyed getting to sit court side at the Thunder NBA game and by the way the Thunder won. Joel's favorite player, Desmond Mason, said hi to Joel and gave him wink as they were warming up. Here is a photo from the game. Happy New year.

My Shepherd

2008-12-22T11:34:00.000-06:00

My little guy was a shepherd at his preschool play. What a great shepherd he was! Hope everyone enjoys Christmas. Love to all.

Merry Christmas

2008-12-11T18:01:00.002-06:00

Hello everyone. Thought I would say hello since I haven't written anything here in quite some time. I can share this photo now that I sent out the Christmas cards. My friend Kim Haynes took these for us...and she always does a great job. Hope everyone is not too busy this holiday season and takes some time to remember God's amazing love and gift He sent in Jesus. Love to all.

Thanksgiving Celebration

2008-11-19T13:42:00.000-06:00

Today was Joel's Thanksgiving feast at school. He was an "indian man" in the skit they performed...so very sweet. Also a photo of Joel playing in the leaves...fun.

Sandy and Mom

2008-11-14T10:58:00.000-06:00

I took a few photos of my great friend Sandy and her mom a few weeks ago. Don't they look great! Sandy, I love you friend. We'll take some more and maybe I'll do better next time! Hope everyone has a good weekend.

Happy Halloween

2008-11-01T15:47:00.000-05:00

Joel sure had fun being Darth Vader last night. We visited our neighbors here and then went to a few homes of friends. When we asked Joel what his favorite part of the night was, he replied "handing out the candy". Halloween is not complete without visiting our friends Dr. Imes and his wife Bonnie. Joel always helps Bonnie pass out the candy and has so much fun. Hope everyone has a safe and fun weekend.

Thunder

2008-10-18T19:04:00.000-05:00

We went to the first Thunder NBA basketball game (pre-season) this past Tuesday night. Joel's friend Tanner was also at the game.
Many more games to come since we have season tickets. I'm sure there will be more photos also! Hope everyone is having a great weekend. Love to you!

Fall and Pumpkins

2008-10-15T17:08:00.000-05:00

A few fall photos we took today outside. I had to bribe him...
but it worked! I am thinking I love the green shirt with the
orange pumpkins. Joel says hi to Sandy and Nana...these are
for you .

Grammy

2008-10-15T13:47:00.000-05:00

Joel's Grammy came to visit and here are a few pics from
her time here last week. We are looking forward to fall break
now ...Joel is excited that there is no school tomorrow! Also
enjoying this fall weather. Have a great week.

Soccer Pictures

2008-10-04T17:15:00.001-05:00

Today was another soccer day.
They took photos and here are
a few I got while they were posing
for the photographer.

My Superman

2008-10-04T09:37:00.000-05:00

Memorial

2008-10-03T00:40:00.000-05:00

I enjoyed taking some photos of the memorial of the federal
building site downtown this week. I went after I dropped Joel
off at school and it was just a beautiful morning. I am needing
some more practice but this was good just to enjoy myself and
also to remember what happened here. Then of course the last
photo is one I happen to like and thought I would share. Love to
all of you!

Fall Soccer

2008-09-24T23:03:00.000-05:00

Fall soccer has started and Joel is really enjoying it. Here are a few pics from this past Saturday.

Pops

2008-09-18T20:26:00.000-05:00

Joel and I visited this place called Pops on old Route 66 located in Arcadia. Great fun and food. They have a huge variety of soda in "pop bottles" which are displayed throughout the store. We want to go back at night to see the "pop bottle statue" (in the photo below) with it's light and colors. I've heard it's great and have seen some photos that were amazing.

A Few More

2008-09-11T16:53:00.000-05:00

A few more photos from Disney. Our photopass with pictures
taken by the Disney Photo People came today so we are enjoying
a few more favorites.

First Day of Pre-K

2008-09-11T13:25:00.001-05:00

A few photos from Joel's first day of pre-k this week and then another from disney. I can't believe it's time for school. Where did the summer go? I do love fall though. Joel is still

trying to figure out why we can't go swimming now. Poor boy. I tried to explain the seasons

and how it's now fall time, but he still just wants to swim! Enjoy your day.

More Disney

2008-09-09T00:02:00.006-05:00

A personal favorite....isn't he cute!

Dumbo...another favorite.

Chip was dressed up for trick for treating too!

Joel got his face painted and actually loved it!

More to come.....

Disney Favorites

2008-09-07T22:11:00.000-05:00

Toy Story ride was the favorite. We must have ridden
at least 7 or 8 times.

Buzz and Woody....Joel was so excited!

Mickey of course!

And one in front of the Castle!

We enjoyed a fun week at Disney World. We stayed at the Grand Floridian and it was great. It was a quick monorail ride to Magic Kingdom and also had a great pool for Joel to swim. We enjoyed great weather and almost no rain! Overall, a successful trip and many great memories. Joel didn't want to leave (and neither did I).

Slow Monday

2008-08-25T12:43:00.003-05:00

No pictures today. Actually just taking this Monday rather slow. Joel has watched his favorite shows and just finished a new masterpiece he painted. I'm thinking through all the things we need to start doing to get ready for our upcoming trip to Disney World.

And I'm just thankful today for a God that continues to love me and pursue me. It's often not at all what I expected...but He does show up and remind me, teach me, open the eyes of my heart to who He is. I am learning to let go of expectations and what I or the world might think. (A learning process for sure!) But even for just those few moments when He is everything and enough...I am reminded of the verse "Taste and see the Lord is good"...it doesn't say come and feast...but just taste. I think that's what God continues to give me along this journey. Tastes of Him that are good enough to keep me wanting more. Less of what the world offers and more of Him.

Zoo Day

2008-08-12T22:01:00.006-05:00

Had a day of beautiful cool weather here today...so Joel and I headed to the zoo. We did our usual things (he has his routine) and had a great day! Here are some photos from today.

Swimming

2008-07-31T14:27:00.004-05:00

Today was the last day of swimming lessong this summer. Joel has been going for 6 weeks now and went from being afraid of getting into the pool the first day to actually being able to swim! Of course he can't swim the length of the pool yet, but he can put his face in the water and keep himself swimming to reach the side all by himself (instead of sinking like a rock!). It's been a great experience. He made some great friends, including his instructor David. David was kind, patient and so great with Joel. During one session (2 weeks) the class was only Joel, his friend Journey, and then David the instructor. So it was almost like having private lessons. That's when Joel really started learning. Below are a few pictures from this last day.

Joel and David.

Journey, David, and Joel

Joel with Journey

Joel being a helper and picking up all the noodles!

Happy Birthday

2008-07-21T16:11:00.008-05:00

Happy Birthday Nana. Joel and I went to visit and celebrate my mom's bithday last week. Here are a few photos from our stay.... Mom...

Nan...

Sunflower...

The barn...

More of the barn and such...

And of course Joel...

The end...

This and That

2008-07-15T15:25:00.006-05:00

These are a few photos that I was going through today...from our Santa Fe trip in June to tball games. Loved this church in Chimayo. It's photographed alot and I don't know if I did it justice but the whole Chimayo area is beautiful. We also ate at Rancho de Chimayo and it was amazing!

Church at Chimayo, New Mexico.

Joel took this photo in Chimayo.

How Joel feels about being hot at tball.

What boys do during a tball game!

Joel this weekend playing outside. Cars and more Cars.

4th of July

2008-07-08T23:30:00.005-05:00

A few pics over the 4th weekend. Lots of fireworks and fun! Enjoy.

Sandy's Birthday

2008-07-02T16:55:00.006-05:00

We celebrated our friend Sandy's 30th birthday this past weekend. We enjoyed going to our favorite restaurant, Musashi's, and had lot's of fun. Sandy got a special birthday gift and you must ask her about it if you see her! Happy birthday again my friend. Love to you!

Summer Days

2008-07-02T11:14:00.003-05:00

I must admit I think he's pretty cute. Enjoying our days at the pool and playing outside in the evening. Hope you all are enjoying your summer days!

Santa Fe

2008-06-23T16:24:00.002-05:00

I returned from spending a week in Santa Fe at the Santa Fe Photography Workshops. It was a great week and full of learning. I don't know if I can take photos any better than I could before I went but I made some great friends and at least know what all those buttons are for on my camera! So glad to be back home with my boys!

Water Water

2008-05-22T20:46:00.003-05:00

It's been pretty warm here lately and we've spent the afternoons playing outside in the water. Give Joel the water hose and he's happy! These are from Tuesday...playing outside in the water with the sprinkler. He thought it was great to try and "drink" from the sprinkler!

Zoo Monday

2008-05-19T15:13:00.005-05:00

Today Joel and I decided to go to the zoo. He specifically wanted to see the sea lions. So we packed our lunch and headed out...only to be the hottest day so far this year! I think our car temp. said 96 on the way home! We didn't stay long but a couple of hours was all we needed! Happy Monday!

A Blue Sucker

2008-05-08T12:49:00.005-05:00

Joel and I went to visit my family on Tuesday and Wednesday...and I got these pics while I was getting gas and Joel had obviously gotten a blue sucker from his Papa. Love these photos.

JOEL...

2008-05-05T10:30:00.006-05:00

The final soccer game for the spring was on Saturday. Joel did play and they had a good time going to eat pizza together after the game. The other photos are just some we took last week playing outside in the backyard. Today we are just having a nice restful day at home. Later this afternoon Joel goes for his 4 year check up. Have a nice day!

FOUR!

2008-04-24T00:32:00.008-05:00

Four years old. Happy Birthday my sweet boy. Four...I just can't take it in. You are such a big boy now. So independent and learning to do things on your own everyday. Yesterday you called me into the bathroom where daddy was giving you a bath just to let me know you can now wash your hair all by yourself. You are finally going to the potty (yeah). All the little milestones that tell me you are growing up a little more everyday... right before my eyes.

Tonight we went to Musashi's (our favorite restaurant) and celebrated with our friends there. Musashi's is a second home for our family. The people who work there are some of our dearest friends and really love Joel. And we love them. Here are a few pics from the birthday celebrations.

Birthday Party at school on Tuesday.

New bike from mom and dad.

Playing with new Buzz!

Cat and David at Musashi's

Joel getting ready to blow out the candles!

Birthday Party

2008-04-21T17:40:00.010-05:00

We celebrated Joel's 4th birthday on Saturday with a party at a little indoor play area.

His actual birthday is Wednesday, April 23rd. So we still have some celebrating

to do this week! Here are some photos from the party. I just can't believe my little

boy is not so little and growing up so fast. I'm sad and yet happy and thank God for my sweet little red headed boy.

The Birthday Boy!

Cake time!

Tanner!

Nana and Papa!

Jamey and Amy.

Me and Sandy.

Us.

All Joel's friends!

Saturday...Soccer

2008-04-05T18:25:00.002-05:00

Joel played soccer again today...fun fun. Joel's Grammy and

Nana were here to watch the game. At least it was warm finally!

More Soccer

2008-04-03T23:05:00.004-05:00

First a cute photo while playing outside.

5Five goals! This was last Saturdays soccer game and Joel was

keeping count of the goals he scored. He was excited.

Joel's best buddy Tanner came to his game. He was

helping Paul coach and cheer Joel on!

Pause and Breathe

2008-03-28T15:27:00.003-05:00

Taking some time to be still today. Joel is sleeping and I'm enjoying the quiet. Also I was inspired by my friend Jennifer's blog journeytotransparency@blogspot.com . Her honesty has always inspired me and I'm thankful for her. God reminds me to stop and listen. To be present in this moment today and fully take in His love and grace for today. I often find myself letting the daily tasks of life creep in and steal my time, my joy. Life is so fast...if we let it be. I desire to fully live in these moments God has given. Not to let them pass with ease but to carefully guard what He has given. So instead of rushing around my not so clean house and doing more and more...I'm taking this moment to be reminded that God is fond of me as Brennan Manning would say (and my friend Harve reminded me).

Happy Easter

2008-03-27T17:27:00.003-05:00

We enjoyed Easter in Waurika with family. Above is my brother Jamey and his girlfriend Amy. I talked them into letting me take some photos...aren't they cute!

Joel had to color his Easter Eggs and Nana's and Papa's house. We had more color going than eggs! But it was fun and the yearly tradition.

Look at all these eggs and candy! Yeah!

SOCCER!

2008-03-19T20:32:00.004-05:00

Joel had his first soccer game this past Saturday and loved it! He did well for his first time (with no practice) and even scored 2 goals. The kids all played and had fun despite the very cold weather. Joel is here helping me type this now and of course wants to push all the buttons and saying all the while, "I want to push it". So I guess we'll say goodbye for now!

My little Pirate

2008-03-13T13:39:00.006-05:00

Check out the cute pirate! We visited Texas Roadhouse for dinner on Tues. night and it was kids night. A lady was there painting faces and making balloons...and Joel always wants his face painted. But this time he chose to be a pirate. So he even got the "balloon hat" to go with it! So cute!

The above picture is from his Easter Party at school today. Aren't they adorable! Lots of Fun!

School Days

2008-03-06T10:37:00.005-06:00

Joel's class at Mother's Day Out

These are from his Valentine's Party at school, and I think they are so cute. He is at school today and really enjoys it. I never thought I would be able to say those words but it's true. He's getting bigger and enjoying going to school and playing with friends. It's been so good for him and he's learned so much. Thankful for this wonderful place!

Happy Monday

2008-03-03T15:36:00.004-06:00

Joel smiled for a few pics this morning while we were making our own play dough. I found the recipe and thought it might be fun since it's cold outside today and we needed something to keep us entertained. Isn't he cute! The first picture is of our great play dough. Pretty Easter colors don't you think! Joel enjoyed making the play dough but wasn't much interested in playing with it after...oh well. Have a happy Monday!

A Fun Friday

2008-02-22T15:34:00.005-06:00

Joel and I enjoyed taking some posters he's collected to get framed and then ate lunch at his choice..."Chicken-fil-A". He's napping and I'm enjoying a quiet moment. Taking in all these moments we have together knowing he's getting older and school is coming soon. Looking forward to the weekend. These photos are from a few weeks ago...Joel took the one of Paul and I and the other is Joel with friend Madison. Have a great weekend!

Starting to Blog!

2008-02-21T18:05:00.002-06:00

Well, I'm new at this. But I'm going to try to start this blogging thing and maybe keep friend and family better informed on what Joel and our family are doing. As you can see, this was Joel last year celebrating his 3rd birthday. It's hard to believe it's time to start thinking about his 4th birthday which will be here in a couple of months! Again, trying this out and hoping to learn and get better!