The Binder Family

Sorry kids . . . . . . Mama is CHEAP!!

2011-11-19T20:03:00.003-05:00

Mariah is in love with the movie Tangled, in fact sometimes I think she believes she is Rapunzel (Oh to be 3 and have an imagination). She wears her Rapunzel dress daily and I was looking for some hair for her.
Well my mom did buy her one (aka: 5 feet of long tangly mess that are still to be found all over our house and in Ayla's diaper, Oh yes!!) which after 1 month turned into an enormous hair ball. It was later disposed of while my pretty one was sleeping :).

I found a few yarn alternatives that were beautiful but I still couldn't bring myself to pay 30.00 for. SO . . . . one must get creative. Walmart yarn, hot glue, and .99 flowers = Rapunzel hair for 2.79 and I probably have enough to make fifty of these. And she loves it, and that's all that matters!!!

Teeth

2011-11-14T14:54:00.003-05:00

Ayla is getting teeth at an Incredible Rate, I feel like she gets a tooth every week. So far she has 6 little pearly whites shining through! And like all of my munchkins so far, they are so random in how they come in, not at all like the charts I was forced to memorize in hygiene school. All of Ayla's teeth are on her left side, weird huh!! I am just loving these cute little chicklets when she smiles, but I am sad to think that losing that gummy smile is just another notch on her way to becoming a toddler.

Pumkin Patch

2011-11-03T15:06:00.009-04:00

One of my favorite things about Fall is PUMPKINS!!! I love to eat them, cook with them, smell them, paint them and most of all pick them out! The kids look forward to picking out just the right ones. Chase is very quick, and Mariah wants to peruse the merchandise before making her selection.

(And the hunt is on!!)

(Mariah's prize after about 45 minutes)

(Trying to carry sisters pumpkin)

(Ayla was uninterested and quite annoyed that we uprooted her from her playroom and dropped her down on the dusty earth with these big orange things - she basically wanted to be carried and inspect her pumpkin from the arms of daddy )

(My 3 lovely's and their pumpkin picks)

(Yes, I was actually able to be in a shot)

My blessings!!

2011-03-22T12:52:00.002-04:00

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Yes, I'm still blogging!!

2011-02-17T21:37:00.006-05:00

Life with three munchkins started out to be CRAZY, but after settling into a routine we are back on track. The kids are loving having Ayla here. Sometimes I think Ayla is begging me for a time out!!! Life is good, we are blessed beyond measure and enjoying our new family of 5!!

Jordan surprised Chase by taking him to "Thomas Live." Of course he loved every minute of it.

Ayla and her Aunt Lori (I think the kids would go live with Uncle Dave and Aunt Lori if I let them!!)

Chase's Christmas present from Grandaddy, an electric Polar Express Train.

Chase's pants strings, too funny not to capture!!

"Sons are a heritage from the Lord, children a reward from him. Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are sons born in one's youth. Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them" Psalms 127

Welcome Ayla Grace!!!

2010-12-01T18:21:00.001-05:00

On Tuesday, November 9 at 1:28 pm we met little Ayla Grace. She was 6 lb 15 oz and was 19.5 in. What a little blessing she is!!!

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My fairy little princess!

2010-11-04T19:48:00.003-04:00

A couple of weeks ago Chase and Jordan went out and Mariah and I stayed home to play. We played princesses for hours. She loves these Disney princesses with stretchy outfits. Of course she was adorned in her own tutu. We normally start the day around here with her dressed from head to toe in a princess dress and jewelry or "jewy" as she says. I love to hear her say "Mama, I beau-ti-ful." I love watching her little mind pretend to be Belle and be swept away by her prince. In these last couple days I have been realizing that she is not my little baby anymore. In fact, a little boy at Harris Teeter called her a baby and she was very offended. It was actually quite cute, "I not a baby" she said "I a big girl, I two years old." She will always be my first little princess but I know God has given me room in my heart for two princesses!!

Day on the farm

2010-10-27T19:08:00.007-04:00

Jordan and I took the kids to a local farm just for kids. They have a really neat petting zoo, pony rides, hay rides, a huge playground and tons of hay to jump in. The kids really enjoy it and they can expel a lot of energy!! Mariah did much better this time being a year older, but Chase is still freaked out by the chicken coop. They both enjoyed the petting zoo more than last year, but it is still intimidating when these goats are coming up to you, biting your clothes and are about eye level!! The baby ones are so adorable though!!

Pumpkin Patch, Finally!!

2010-10-26T21:02:00.007-04:00

Fall is one of my favorite times of the year, second only to Christmas! I love the smells, the colors and the food. Fall is so rich in spices and flavors. I am glad we live in a location that we are surrounded by local farmers rich in local produce. The kids really enjoy running through the fields, getting dirty and searching for just the right pumpkins to place on our porch. This year we found 2 really big ones, a 29 lb'er and a 32 lb'er. They are simply beautiful. I love that our porch is made of cement and covered from the sun, so usually we are able to keep these beauties till about January!!

Pumpkins

2010-10-26T20:49:00.002-04:00

We were on our way to pick pumpkins at the patch when we realized that they are only open on the weekends, bummer. So we pulled off at a nearby veggie stand and let the kids grab some little baby ones to color. Even better, they were only .50 a piece!! Pumpkin patch another day :(

Getting Crafty!

2010-10-09T15:08:00.003-04:00

When I put Mariah's quilt on her toddler bed I was to lazy to take down the bar and have to patch holes in the wall, so I had to come up with an idea for the silver bar. I am actually very happy with the way it came out. I painted the letters to match the girls pottery barn bedding. So cute!!!

Ohh, how I love fall, and creating a fall mantle. With some help from my sister, I pulled this together one Sunday afternoon. I love it. . . . . . .
. . . . .especially when it is all lit up at night. I just love the glistening of Christmas lights!!!

Dirt and Dirty!

2010-09-26T21:31:00.007-04:00

I am posting pictures of this mess because I know most of my friends would not believe that I allowed my kids to get this dirty. I will admit that I was having to avert my eyes most of the time, but they were having so much fun playing, throwing and digging in the dirt. You can imagine the bath water after this cleanup!!!

Our life!

2010-08-31T20:53:00.009-04:00

Our life has been crazy lately. Between trying to work more to save for maternity leave and dealing with the heat, I am exhausted!! We have been doing a lot more inside activities to stay cool. I am always on the look out for new activities for Chase, lately we discovered Perler beads. Chase is fascinated by them.
Recently we bought back packs for the kids just because they are convenient to carry stuff to church and other places. They clung to them in the store like we had bought them a most prized possession. When we got home we could barely pry them off of the kids. Chase was crushed when we told him that he wasn't going to school. Too cute!!

Mariah turned 2 in August, and I still can't believe it. She is such the little princess. She is into all things pink, princess and Tinkerbell. She has really come into her own personality. It has been fun to start doing girly things together with her too. It is going to be interesting having two little princesses running around. We had a small family party this year and she enjoyed every minute of it!! We bought her a play kitchen, and her and Chase have been preparing all sorts of gourmet meals for Jordan and I!

In baby news, I have 9 weeks left, wahoo!!! I am ready to get this last kid out and be done with pregnancy. She is doing well and we are praying that God will continue to keep her safe for the last couple weeks. She finally has a name, Ayla Grace, and I can't wait to meet her. I am still due November 7th but we will keep everyone posted.

Summer life!

2010-07-15T21:36:00.003-04:00

My sweet Mariah has really gotten into cooking, watching me cook and playing with my cookware. We have decided to get her a big play kitchen for her birthday, and I can't wait to give it to her. Her new favorite saying is "Happy Birthday (pause) to you."

A couple weeks ago Jordan was cutting the grass and I was greeted by a screams and running. After getting Chase to calm down, he explained to me that he was hurt by "a HUGE bat with wings and a stinger." Oh my, I had to laugh. What was actually two wasps might have seemed like a bat when they were millimeters from his eyeball!! He got stung under the eye and on his finger. Thankfully we found out that he is not allergic and there was no stinger left. It took a good week for the swelling to go down, but the fear of flying bugs is still on high alert for him.

As for prego meggo ( as I am now called), I will be 24 weeks on Sunday. Still a long way to go. We have another ultrasound on Monday to give a second look at the many concerns we have. Prayerfully everything will go well and she will be forming perfectly and both of our bodies will be running as they should!

Baby Binder #3!

2010-06-25T21:50:00.004-04:00

Yes, Yes the news is in, we are having another girl! I am very excited because I have found a new love in little girls dresses, and I am excited about the girls sharing a room and growing up close. Jordan is excited but I know he really would have loved to hear the words BOY come out!! Chase doesn't really care, he loves babies and wants to name her Tinkerbell. Mariah is the one I am slightly worried about. She is starting to act funny when I hold other babies, but we are working through it. We are in need of prayer for our little munchkin. There seems to be some possible complications, but I am in faith stating that God has healed her already!!! I am due November 7th, so there is still a long way to go. Maybe you will even get a belly pic, but prob not!!

We love local strawberries!

2010-05-17T21:25:00.007-04:00

For about 3 years I have been taking the kids to a local strawberry farm that's cheap and kid friendly. Every year we buy like 10 pounds of strawberries and inevitably some of them go bad. This year I figured we would go once a week. This year has been the best yet, Chase actually picked the red berries instead of squeezing the heck out of them or launching them at people! I'm serious!! The had a blast. Mariah ate most of hers, but Chase picked a bunch for us. A great way to get wonderful produce and support your local crop owners.

4 Years Old!

2010-05-14T22:52:00.002-04:00

My baby boy turned 4 this week and I am struggling with this growing up process. He constantly reminds me that he is a big boy and that he doesn't need kisses, can buckle himself in his car seat by himself, and can walk by the shopping cart instead of riding in it. I am learning to allow more freedoms, while he is learning how to earn and maintain responsibility. Everyone has a child like themselves, and Chase is mine. We are both strong willed, perfectionists and full of energy. He is a color wheel of moods and puts enthusiasm behind everything he does. I love my boy and he will always be my baby. I savor every memory and I thank God for blessing our family with this special boy.

Chase's birthday present from us and the family. Both the kids are loving it, worth every penny!!

Zoo Fun!

2010-05-14T22:34:00.004-04:00

Notice that the Elephant's legs are crossed, very strange!

Fun with Friends!

2010-05-14T21:27:00.001-04:00

Summer Fun

2010-04-08T21:44:00.003-04:00

Nothing says summer more than ice cream dripping down your kids faces, sticky tummys, and a belly filled with cold goodness. Our new nightly pastime, ice cream on the front porch. I will say it usually ends in Mariah in a diaper and Chase in his underwear running around under the porch light. I LOVE it!!!

My little sweet pea really enjoys dressing up at friends houses, so Jordan and I bought her a Cinderella outfit of her own. She twirls around like she is the most beautiful little girl in the whole world (of course she is). She puts on the whole bit: dress, necklace, earings, shoes and the purse. I love this new joy of hers, and am enjoying every minute of it.

Updated pictures

2010-04-07T21:25:00.004-04:00

My Aunt Lolly found the most awesome train cookie cutters for Chase, and he loves them. I had to hide them for a couple of days after we got them because he just wanted to carry them around as toys.

Valentines Day cupcake faces. I got away with pink icing and strawberry cupcakes, but with Chase around I had to add sprinkles!

Baby #3

2010-04-06T21:56:00.002-04:00

Yes yes, the news is in. I am pregnant. Things have been crazy starting in January when the doctors were unsure whether I had a miscarriage or not. Then I found out I was prego in February. Then I went to my first doctor appt to see the baby and there was no baby present. Doctors said it was a blighted ovum, where the baby never forms, which is common after a miscarriage. Two weeks later we went for another ultrasound and there it was, a baby and a heartbeat (164 bpm). Wahoo!! Then the tech noticed a subchorionic hemorrhage, basically a huge blot clot that can dissolve, stay the same or rupture at any time causing a miscarriage. Then today, I was hit with the news that i have an anti E antibody. From what I have gathered, antibodies are a part of your blood type and I am probably ee. Apparently Jordan may be eE and either Mariah or the possible miscarriage was also a carrier of the E and our blood mixed and now I have the E antibody. Now my body is showing rising levels of this antibody that can be detrimental to a baby that is not of the same E type. So, I have to have blood tests monthly to see if the levels are rising or not. So a lot to pray about, but nothing is impossible for my living God. Please keep us in your prayer, for peace and patience!

The Gash!!

2010-03-18T21:51:00.001-04:00

Need for Peace!

2010-03-18T21:33:00.002-04:00

My postings have been, well, none lately. We are in the middle of some crazy crazy things around here, but I won't be sharing until later. The kids are great, growing and growing. We did have a scare Tuesday, when Mariah bit a huge gash in her tongue. Thankfully it wasn't all the way through, but it was close. It is starting to heal and we opted for no stiches. (I posted a video on facebook if you are of the strong stomached crowd!!) We would however, love for you to send some prayers our way. Will be posting soon!

Videos!

2010-01-21T16:17:00.004-05:00

All-in-one!

2010-01-04T21:00:00.007-05:00

Holidays are now gone, and we had a lot. Thanksgiving, Christmas, 6 year Anniversary, and my 28th Birthday! It it to much to type so I will be updating in pictures and video. I will say that we had a wonderful holiday season and we look forward to another great year.

Trying to cram in a nutritious breakfast before presents!

He got a bike for his birthday last year that he loves, but it is just to big for him. Found a great deal on a bike on black friday, and of course I couldn't pass up a Thomas bike!!

Took Yaya for her first haircut today and she was not having any of it. At least we were able to trim up her mullet and hopefully keep the long locks growing.

Stockings!!

2009-12-17T20:22:00.005-05:00

Jordan's step mom has a tradition of making Christmas stockings for the family. She does a really awesome job and I was super excited when I received mine. I especially love the back of mine, it is pink corduroy with rosebuds on it. They are very detailed and she said it takes her about 4 months to do each one. I remember how excited we were when she finished Chase's stocking. Chase loves his and was actually quite upset that Mariah didn't have one yet, very cute. Last week she brought over Mariah's, it is just gorgeous. Mariah really loves her stocking because it has a snowman on it. Frosty has become her new favorite. I think it is such a neat tradition she has started and I would love to carry it on with my grandkids. Though i am just now thinking that if we end up having 4 kids, we could potentially end up having a lot of grandkids. That could be a heck of a lot of stockings, which is a bit scary since my sewing consists of putting buttons back on!!! Good thing I have a while, my oldest is only 3!!

Puddle Jumping!

2009-12-12T19:49:00.005-05:00

The other day I took Chase out for a walk for a change of pace during table-time. It had rained the night before and there were still traces of rain to be seen. We put on our rain boots and headed out. We walked around the neighborhood collecting leaves, sticks and anything else that catches a 3-year-olds eye, but then we saw it! The most perfect jumping puddle ever. I suppressed the inner me screaming he-is-going-to-get-wet-and-disgusting, and let him dive in. At least it made for great pictures but I will mention that he had to be stripped down naked to get in the car and thankfully I had a blanket in there!!!

Christmas Tree Time!

2009-12-03T14:52:00.006-05:00

We ventured out Tuesday night to try and find a Christmas tree and have a fun family outing, of course sometimes things have a way of turning out differently than you saw it in your head. The kids did have fun, but it didn't last long. Chase wandered around with us for a while but then his walking became running, and fallen tree branches quickly became involved. Mariah was good for a whole 5 minutes and then she started a melodic song of whining, crying and screaming. Just beautiful. Jordan was probably glad the hunt came to a halt with his pick because there have been years where my perfect tree hunt has lasted quite some time, usually ending in a line-up of about 6 trees that basically look the exact same but I cannot seem to choose one! Therefore, there are no tree hunt pictures, oh well!!

Playing House!

2009-11-08T15:14:00.009-05:00

I caught Mariah playing house yesterday, narration and all. She was bounding the little people all over the house babbling every second. Every now and then I would catch the words "baby" "dog" and "ning nong" (doorbell).

Jordan was sick of Chase's moppy locks, so we had to cut them off. I was a bit sad, but I know I can grow them back. I will say that doing hair in the morning is much faster with this do!

Day on the Farm!

2009-11-02T22:22:00.009-05:00

Last Saturday mom and I took the kids to a local farm to play. They had a petting zoo, pony rides, playgrounds and lots of hay. The kids had a blast running around with the animals, Mariah especially! Chase was a bit uneasy at the thought of getting on a giant pony, but after a little coercing he got on and loved it. Mariah bounded with glee and laughter as the pony bounced her around the trail. Mariah chased after the goats and chickens like she had grown up on a farm. The baby sheep were my personal favorite! It was well worth the money and I can't wait to take the kids back.

Mess-free pumpkin carving!

2009-10-29T11:42:00.003-04:00

I love to decorate the house with crafts that Chase has made, especially my home-depot orange kitchen (which will be changing by the way). Chase loves to glue, so we did our fall leaf project a couple weeks ago. This morning I cut out pumpkins and faces for Chase to glue on them. Not only is he using creativity and eye-hand coordination, but I am learning how to let my kids be messy. I will say that I let him glue all the pieces on by himself. I got this idea fromScissorCraftsForKids website!

Growing & Learning!!

2009-10-28T22:06:00.005-04:00

Yesterday I caught Mariah building towers with her blocks. I couldn't believe how tall she was able to build it and how still she was able to keep her hands. She was so intently using her eye/hand coordination to accomplish her goal. One thing I notice about her is that she has more patience than Chase does, Chase is quick to be frustrated and easily angered, but Yaya has much patience and perseverance. Sometimes I forget that she is only 14-months old, I call her my little 2-year-old!

(Sorry if you look to close, they both have after-snack yuck mouths!)

Yaya has now discovered the magna doodle, and loves it!!!

Chase's Halloween!

2009-10-25T21:19:00.002-04:00

Jordan and I have decided that we are not going to celebrate Halloween with our children. Since the kids are so young, we didn't feel the need to explain to them what Halloween is. On the way home from church this afternoon Chase stated that he couldn't wait until Halloween, and so I asked him what he thought Halloween was. His response was quick and with great belief, "Halloween is when I dress up in a costume and go pick pumpkins in the dark!"

Presents and Popcorn!

2009-10-17T21:18:00.007-04:00

Aunt Jacklyn surprised Mariah with a belated birthday card the other week and so we headed off to Target the other day to use it. We found her the cutest doll stroller. It will be perfect for the doll Jordan and I are getting her for Christmas! She has so much fun pushing it around, and being push in it by Chase. Chase will say to her "I am the daddy, yaya, you be the baby!" Thank you so much Jacklyn!!!

My little princess is growing so fast! I just love her personality that she radiates through her face, and her shoe fetish!!!

Wednesday, while I was at work, daddy and the kids had a movie date on the couch. As you can see both of them can chow down some popcorn.

Fun Pics!

2009-10-10T15:08:00.003-04:00

I am so glad that Mariah has turned into such a lady!! Hmmm. . . .

Mariah and her new rain boots. Grammy thought these would appease her shoe fetish.

Another one of Chase's fall crafts, painting pumpkins.

Pumpkin Patch and fall flowers!

2009-10-04T21:21:00.007-04:00

Jordan and I took the kids out to the pumpkin patch on Saturday, which turned out to be a beautiful and hot day. Even though it is only 10 minutes from our house, I feel like we are in the country. I think I love it as much as the kids do. We spent an hour walking and running through the fields, and searching for just the right pumpkins to display fall on our porch. Jordan found one and Chase found the other! Mariah spent most of her time rummaging through the dirt for rocks to jam in her mouth, but she did manage to stop and push out a stinky party favor for us (did I mention how hot it was, which made the smell even worse). It was fun to see the kids out enjoying Gods wondrous works.

I even had time to make a fall centerpiece for the table!!

Lazy Days!

2009-09-27T22:00:00.003-04:00

Mondays and Tuesdays are our lazy days because they are the only days that Jordan is home with us. Sometimes we have to run errands which ends up with crazy kids, but the best days are the ones where we just stay home and play. I love filling our house with sounds of joy, tears of laughter, and squeals of excitement! I hope when our kids are grown they remember the lazy days just as much as the busy days.

Leaves and Shoes!

2009-09-27T21:26:00.006-04:00

Yesterday morning we awoke to a beautiful crisp autumn day, perfect for playing. I took Chase outside to swing in the fresh air, finally free from mosquitoes!! We ended up talking about fall and why the leaves fall from the trees. We decided to collect some and make an art project. Its amazing how a little dab of glue can end up everywhere!! We ended the day by making fun pumpkin cookies.

Mariah, at one-year-old, has quite the shoe fetish already. Ninety five percent of the time we find her grazing the house with shoes on her hands. I pry them from her tight grip every chance I get because shoes have got to be the dirtiest things ever, but not 5 minutes later she is sneakily scouring the house for another pair. She usually doesn't put them in her mouth, thank God, but just walks around showing everyone her diamond possessions.

Thomas' Travels!

2009-09-21T15:46:00.003-04:00

We have come to expect the unexpected with Chase, and this was no different. Jordan and I were in the kitchen getting ready for lunch when in walks Chase in sobs saying "its stuck mama." I look up and there is Chase standing in front of me with a Thomas the train woven into his hair. May I also mention that it is battery operated and its wheels are still chugging along catching all strands of hair in its grasp. My first thought was of us entering Pigtails & Crewcuts with train on head for his first head shave. Of course we had to snap a few pics before the train removal began!! Chase sat with his face in his hands crying while Jordan tried to pull and pry his precious locks from the rubber wheels. We eventually got it off with a little ripping of hair and disassembling of the train. He got over it fast, but I don't think he will try that again. Needless to say, I took the battery out in case of a memory lapse!!!!

Birds and the Bees!

2009-09-15T15:08:00.005-04:00

After months of wondering if Chase would ever notice the difference between girls and boys, the moment finally arrived. Although the conversation was very short, I was glad that I didn't have to go into detail just yet. We are potty training Chase, he is doing quite well by the way, and starting to learn about privacy. Since I have a 1-yr-old, I still have to potty with the door open if she is around. While I was in the bathroom Chase approached me and before I could ask for privacy he asked:

"Mama, where is your weenie?"
"I don't have one Chase"

"Why not?"
"Because girls have private parts and boys have weenies"

"So you and yaya have private parts?"
"Yes"

"And me and daddy have weenies?"
"Yes"

"Can I see?"
"NO!"

"Okay mama"
Sighhhhhhhh

First pair of Shoes!!

2009-09-05T21:58:00.004-04:00

As fall is approaching and Mariah is going from walking to running I knew she needed some shoes, not to mention she already at 1-yr-old has a shoe love affair. Problem!!! She has a really chunky foot and nothing from Target will fit her. I ended up at Stride Rite, a great store but expensive. The shoes fit her perfectly and she loves them. She wore them straight from the store and had a blast running all over the house with them. Now I just hope they last for a while!!

Grandaddy's Gift!

2009-08-30T20:57:00.003-04:00

Grandaddy (my dad) came over the other day to bring Mariah a special birthday present he had bought for her. I had no idea what was in this little square box. What was it, a Beauty and the Beast snowglobe. I know that seems like a crazy gift for a 1-year-old, but it was a sentimental gift. First of all I love love love snowglobes. I only have a couple because I am not a clutter collector person, but I love to look at them and I even have some on my Christmas tree!! Secondly, we also call Mariah "Belle," which is the name of the character in the Beauty and the Beast movie. He said as soon as he saw it he knew he had to buy it for her. It is so beautiful and I am so glad he got it for her. She and Chase love for me to wind it up and dance to the music. I am trying to teach Chase how to slow dance to the sweet lullaby. Mariah loves it even though she can't play with it, she loves to listen to the music and watch the glitter swirl around. I am a sucker for sentimental gifts, and I just loved this one! Thanks grandaddy!!

No Idea!

2009-08-27T23:11:00.004-04:00

From time to time I catch both of my kids in the strangest places. I guess its just their age to wiggle into tiny spaces, but sometimes it is just plain funny! Jordan was at work when I found Chase here, so I texted him a picture. His comment was "Can we ship him this way?" Here is Chase's latest crazy spot!!

Sand and Ice!

2009-08-27T22:47:00.003-04:00

The kids are really loving the beach this year, and it is a great fun and free thing to do. We have been trying to make it to the beach once a week, but it is a lot to pack with kids. You have to bring towels, toys, umbrella, chairs, snacks and anything else Jordan and I can manage to carry down to the waters edge! This year we are going a lot at night as well. We just let them play in the sand and they have a blast. You don't need as much stuff just to play in the sand. Down in Duck this year we were introduced to Rita's Italian Ice, and it just so happens that we pass one on the way back home from the beach. We have been taking the kids there a couple times a month for a icy treat. Its healthier and cheaper than Cold Stone!!! Making good memories for them!!!

First Birthday Party!

2009-08-23T23:37:00.007-04:00

I had planned a fun outdoor pool party for Mariah, but God apparently had other plans. A severe rain storm and flood advisory came pouring in at four o'clock on Saturday, did I mention the party was at four thirty!!! So much for the pool party. Everyone made it, some more soaked than others (Raegan!) and we had a blast despite the roaring downpour outside. Thanks to all the family and friends who dared to venture out and brave our crowded house!!

Happy 1st Birthday Mariah!!!

2009-08-23T22:42:00.006-04:00

I start as all moms do, I can't believe my baby is 1! But time does fly, especially when you have other munchkins at home. Mariah was born on a Wednesday, I do remember that much. At 6:54 after almost 24 hours of labor. I never imagined I would love a little girl so much. Mariah brings a joyful almost musical bounce into every room she enters. She has big beautiful blue eyes and the biggest grin squashed in between two huge chipmunk cheeks. She is very sweet and likes to be brave and independent. She adores her brother Chase and is lostfully lonely when he leaves the room. She is such a blessing and I thank God for handpicking her for our family.

Jordan was gone all day/night with work, but I was not going to let that stop me celebrating her special day. Some friends and I took our kids to the mall play area and the kids had a blast. We ate lunch and then headed home for naps, crucial for my kids! While the kids were napping I made homemade banana pudding for our birthday dessert. My parent came over to help celebrate. Mariah was not at all intimidated by the large plate of sugar in front of her!

We did present with Jordan the night before, but I think Chase had more fun with her "birthday toys" as he calls them.

Talking about Crabbies!

2009-08-16T21:40:00.002-04:00

Crabbies!!

2009-08-13T22:48:00.005-04:00

Ever since Jordan brainwashed Chase into wanting a dog that is all he talks about. And since everyone knows that I do not want a dog in my house, I started looking for other options. Fish seemed to be the best logical pet, but I still manage to kill those poor innocent swimmers, and the thought of having Chase see me flush his loving pet down the toilet made me think twice. Then it dawned on me that we could buy Chase some hermit crabs in OBX. Me and all the cousins used to get them every year and have races as kids. So before we left we purchased two "crabbies" as Chase calls them. Funny thing is I do all the work for these gross little creatures, and it is funny that we bought them for Chase and he can't pick them up or play with them, Hmmmm! Well, I will tell anyone in the market for these crazy animals that they are super cheap to raise because they will eat anything you throw in their cage, but I will warn that the info on them says they can live up to 20 years!!!!! Yeah well we will see about that!!

Grocery Shopping!

2009-08-13T12:25:00.002-04:00

I ran up to the grocery store this morning to grab a few things and I brought Chase with me. We were going to get some lettuce and we passed a man putting away tomatoes and Chase said, "Hey there little fella, what are you doing with these tomatoes." The man just smiled and kept on putting away tomatoes. Then we proceeded to the cereal isle where a very muscular tattooed man was trying to find the right cereal but dropping about 10 boxes on the floor in the process. My child quickly picked up on the man making a mess and said very loudly, "Hey that daddy is being bad and making a big mess, he needs a time out." I quickly bolted and did not look back to see the mans reaction!! My my, who knew grocery shopping could be so interesting. Oh by the way, my child now refers to any woman as a mommy and any man as a daddy.

OBX Videos!

2009-08-06T15:05:00.009-04:00

Jordan took Chase out body boarding for the first time, and as you can see he loved it. I will say that the next time we do this Chase WILL be wearing a life jacket!!

Mariah loved walking on the "wet sand" as Chase called it, and waiting for the water to crash onto her little feet. She was not afraid at all, as opposed to Chase at this age who hated the water. She did however get a little uneasy when we tried to take her into the water!

OBX, Oh how we miss you!

2009-08-04T21:11:00.006-04:00

We are back from OBX and are all very sad. We had so much fun swimming, playing in the sand and just relaxing. Thank you so much Bobby and Lolly for the vacation!!! The kids played at the beach almost every morning and cried when they were ripped form the sand. Our days were full of fun in the sun and nights with card games, board games and laughter. It was fun to leave our worries and busy lives at home and spend the week out in God's beautiful beaches. I will say that we saw so many rainbows down there, what a great reminder of Gods unwavering love and promises. We will look to next year for more ice cream, Swedish fish flavored Italian ice, peanut butter m&ms and pancakes!

Out of the Mouth of Babes!

2009-07-23T22:00:00.004-04:00

Chase turned 3 in May and is stepping into preschool hood. Some days he just cracks me up with what comes out of his mouth. His little brain must be going a mile a minute. Lately he has been using these big words, and I don't know if he is getting it from our reading time or just listening to people talk. Here are just a few of his funny sentences:

- "Mama, I think Yaya is furious."
-"Look at my concoction of toys."
-"I think daddy is frustrated at me."
-"That is terrible."
-"Mama, you are amazing."

Here are some if his funny sayings that I have started correcting, but still make me laugh:

-What his name is
-I can't know

Oh and the best by far:
"Mama, the octopus has 8 testicles." (I thought I would die laughing)

Barrel Full of Monkeys!

2009-07-20T22:05:00.005-04:00

Who knew how much fun a 3-year-old would have with a bucket of plastic monkeys. It was probably due to Grandaddy making a game of hanging them from the lamp, Chase was entertained for quite a while.

Found you!

2009-07-20T22:01:00.002-04:00

This is what happens when you let an 11 month old wander. I just had to take a picture before I scooped her up!

Most of you knew that it would happen sooner or later, but at last I have come full circle. It started with small pink flowers popping up, then a Bright pink bedroom, then pink dresses, and then a wardrobe of pink. And now I have discovered bows. Mariah doesn't leave the house without a cute bow in her hair, though I still claim it is to keep the feather bang hairs out of her face!! I have to admit I was a little skeptical of girly frilly stuff, but she just looks to cute in it.

Lovin the tub!

2009-07-18T22:23:00.005-04:00

Mariah loves bath time. There is no quick wash down for her, she wants to play and play. Recently I have had to start closing the bathroom door because she will try to climb in the tub during the day. When it is time for a bath, all I have to do is turn the water on and she comes walking in with a big grin and lots of laughter. She squeals and laughs, splashes and bounces for as long as I let her.

While all the splashing was going on in the tub, Chase was proudly prancing around in his diaper and Thomas the Train belt singing "God is Bigger Than The Boogy Man" (A veggie tales favorite).

More Walking!

2009-07-18T21:37:00.005-04:00

Mariah is walking all over the house now. She still crawls, but less and less. The one good thing about more walking is that there will be less dirty knee spots all over her pants and baby legs!!!!!

Just a day!

2009-07-13T21:31:00.004-04:00

The flowers in my flower bed.

Her first two teeth.

I just love the back of her hair, the way it is starting to curl and wave.

Potty training started today and he is lovin his Thomas "underwears." We managed to make it through the day with two underwear changes and one shorts change, and two poops that led to an eventual poop in the potty!

Chase's new big-boy bed. Chase kept asking me when we were going to "do decorating" in his room. He loves his new bed and car room. Tonight will be the first night in it!!

I bought Chase and electric toothbrush to get used to the sounds and feel that he will have at the dentist. I will let you know if it works.

Very Sad, But Worth The Education!

2009-07-12T21:20:00.004-04:00

I found this story through another blog, and though it made me cry I wanted to share. This is an excerpt from a woman's blog who lost her daughter to a tragic car accident, but it wasn't a crash. The girl got stuck in a hot car and could not get out. I urge all parents to read because what happened to this little girl could happen to any kid, and I for one never thought about it. To learn more you can visit her blog through this link www.avasrule.com. Here is the story from her blog:

" 'This is a very hard post to write but I feel I owe it to the hundreds of people who have shown support to our family throughout the World over the last two weeks.

On Saturday the 3rd of February, on a very “normal”day in our normal, happy life, our World was shattered. In short, our beautiful daughter Ava got into our car which was, unusually, parked in full sun in the middle of the day. She had been with Grandad who lives next door (we have one wall around both properties) and said she was returning to my house but in fact went searching for something in the car. We always lock it. Just not that day. Once she got in she shut the door and was not able to find her way back out. Over come by the heat, she quickly fell asleep and when she was found, 30 minutes later, it was too late.

Our princess fought so bravely for two days in ICU but on Monday the 5th of February, she flew to Heaven.

Words can never express the pain in our heart or the void we feel. It makes no sense but we are so grateful to have had her for three years and we will continue to work very hard to provide our other three children a wonderful childhood filled with happy memories.

Ava, my amazing, sweet, clever Super Princess..I miss you with every ounce of my being. I love you to the moon and back.' "

Caught Walking and Reading!

2009-07-09T22:09:00.005-04:00

We finally caught Mariah walking. She has been walking for about a month now, but we never seemed to have my moms camera around. Its only a couple of steps but you can see the proud daddy. She only walks when she wants to, and since she is the second child I am not in any hurry to rush her. My little baby is growing up, almost 11 months old. Thank you Jesus for our happy healthy baby girl.

Chase loves to read and be read to. Since he cannot read yet, he makes up the story or recites it from memory. It is so cute to watch. Lately we have not been allowing Chase to watch any Thomas the Train movies (long story) so he has moved on to Toy Story. He has found a love and attachment for Buzz and Woody. My mom found this super cute Camping Woody, complete with a lantern and sleeping bag and Chase just adores it. Now all we need is a Buzz Lightyear, so expensive though. So I found a Toy Story book that he has about memorized in two days, that is what he is reading if you cannot make out the words.

Oh, and just a quick side note. Chase let me know the other day that "Jesus lives in my tummy mama!"

Just for fun!

2009-07-04T22:39:00.005-04:00

Food, Fun & Fireworks!

2009-07-04T22:23:00.003-04:00

Friday night the Newton's invited us to watch fireworks along with them and the Fox's at the park. Jordan was working so my parents came along to help. We had lots of fun watching the kids play, talking and laughing. Once the fireworks started both the kids were in awe. Chase hadn't seen fireworks since he was first born and this was Mariah's first time. Neither of them were bothered by the noise and they loved every second. The fireworks were "beautiful" and "the funnest thing ever" according to Chase. He was still talking about them this morning!!! I forgot my camera, but Hannah got some great shots of the kids. I think we may have started a friend-tradition, can't wait until next year.

Beach Trip #2

2009-06-30T15:43:00.004-04:00

The first time we took Mariah to the beach I didn't get any pictures because I didn't want to take my SLR to the beach. For this visit we borrowed mom's camera to get some pics of the kids. Mariah really likes the beach, both the sand and the water. Chase at that age was more like me, I don't really care for either. The water is dirty and I can't see what could possible be nibbling at my feet and the sand is hot and gets everywhere. It's just one of those things you do for your kids and husband. The funniest thing is that Mariah will shove a bunch of sand into her mouth, I will wipe her clean and force to chug some water, and then I turn around and she is cramming more sand in. I don't get it, obviously she doesn't mind it or I would even venture to say she likes it!! Who knows. Both kids love it when Jordan takes them out into the water because he goes way out and tosses them up like volleyballs. I of course am standing at the edge of the water yelling at him and getting a migraine at the sight of my kids being tossed around in drowning water. You can see who the fun parent is in this situation.

Summer Photos!

2009-06-28T21:49:00.003-04:00

This morning the kids were so nicely dressed for church that I decided to take advantage of clean matching outfits and take pictures. We didn't have any meltdowns, but as you can see I didn't get any great pictures with both of them looking at me. Mariah was so enamoured with the grass so we handed her a flower to keep her busy, then of course Chase wanted one, and then by that point Mariah was squishing hers and trying to cram it into her mouth before we could pry it from her tiny fingers. Oh well, memories are made in the moment!

The Perfect Day!

2009-06-27T22:06:00.003-04:00

Some days raising two kids, keeping up with the household chores, staying in touch with friends and family and just breathing can be a tall order to fill. Some days are good and some days I try to forget. What makes a perfect day for me? Hmmm.
- To have both kids wake up happy!
- Have a healthy breakfast, lunch and dinner ready on schedule.
- A clean house.
- Chores done.
- Fun outings planned and executed without meltdowns, whining or crying.
- Naps accomplished.
- Baths and bedtime on schedule.
- No arguments, time-outs or sibling rivalry throughout the day.

Some days I seem to have the perfect day, and some days seem to fall apart right after breakfast. Sometimes I have to stop and ask God what kind of day he wants us to have. Maybe a day spent in pj's, picnics on the floor and goldfish for dinner are okay with Him! Maybe it's okay if they go to bed with peanut butter on their faces and sand in their hair! I need to learn to let God schedule my day as to accomplish the goals he has in store for us. So when I think that way, there is no need for the perfect day!

Cool Story To Share!

2009-06-26T22:15:00.003-04:00

I read this article in a magazine and wanted to share:

Three years ago, Mike Foster had everything he thought he wanted: a thriving design business, a new, fully loaded Infinity G35 Sports Coupe, and a 3,100-square-foot home.

"I was living within the comfortable American dream,"says the 38-year-old Corona, California resident. "But I was unsatisfied. It sounds terribly arrogant, but I began thinking, 'If this is all there is, I'm going to be really bored the rest of my life.'"

Mike grew up in California as a Christian and lived what he calls a simple, normal life. "But somewhere along the path, I was indoctrinated," he says. "I bought into what the world tells us: 'Spending, buying and financing things that we can't afford is the path to happiness.' It simply isn't true."

In what Mike calls his "first act of rebellion against consumerism, "he sold his sports car. Using this money, he paid off his car loan and paid cash for a 1993 Toyota Camry with a cracked windshield. With the $600 a month he had been paying on the sports car, he began donating to Compassion and other charities. In spring 2006, Mike founded the Junky Car Club and soon began promoting Compassion sponsorship on the club's Web site. Their membership is estimated at 6,000 plus.

Junky Car Club members are encouraged to drive older vehicles that are paid for, so they can give their money to those who are in need. "Investing in the poor, in sponsor ships for kids - that gives satisfaction I can't find in new, shiny stuff," says Mike. "We made the decision to downsize from our 3,100-square-foot home to a townhouse about half the size," says Mike. "We got rid of about 60 percent of our stuff. It's been a beautiful, kingdom-building sort of thing, getting our loves aligned." "All of us have a story. We need to step out in faith and let God do some things through us. I don't look at what I'm doing as unique - I just want my life and priorities to be different."

I enjoyed this uplifting story and I hope you did too!!

2 Quick Videos!

2009-06-23T21:50:00.003-04:00

Humpty Dumpty

Caught taking a quick stand.

Weeds and more weeds!

2009-06-21T22:17:00.003-04:00

Jordan and I decided to spend Saturday by cleaning up the front flower bed. It desperately needed some attention since we haven't touched it since we moved it, some 2 years ago!! My hope was that Mariah would take a nap and Chase would play angelically well on the porch with chalk. Yeah right, that's what you get for dreaming in a world of perfection. Mariah would not nap and Chase tired quickly with the sidewalk chalk. So, time to improvise. Out came the pool, sand toys, snacks and a highchair. I was able to weed most of the bed, plant a couple of flowers and Jordan was able to remove a shrub root and some Virginia Creeper (lots of fun). Its amazing what cut grass and watered flowers can do to a yard. Of course the work ended in the kids crying for lunch and cranky for their naps, but we did make some good progress. We will have to finish another day! I did manage to snap a couple pictures for good ole memories!!

Change who? . . . Me?

2009-06-17T21:40:00.002-04:00

Life with Chase had been a . . well. . . blessing? I love my child with all my heart, but he drives me to frustration, distraction and everything in between. Apparently I was a strong-willed, stubborn and determined child when I was younger as well. My mom still believes God led James Dobson to write The Strong Willed Child just so my dad and her could parent me. I have actually seen their copy, basically the whole book is highlighted and underlined. I just have no idea what they are talking about!!!

Anyway, I have been reading the Childwise series (Growing Kids Gods Way) for help and advice on parenting and discipline. A friend let me borrow some tapes in conjunction to the series and I was quite anxious to learn how to change my child's wild behaviors. The tapes gave lots of advice but then they turned the finger towards me. I had no idea how I could/should change through all of this, besides Chase is the problem right?? I learned how my attitudes, behaviors, frustrations and thoughts could be causing his lack of obedience.

Since I have been scheduling our day (yes when I say scheduling I mean every 15 minutes of our day is accounted for and filled) and changing our discipline, Chase has turned into a drastically different child. I have had so many people comment on the difference they have seen in him. I have learned that parenting is more than just raising kids, it involves prayer and guidance from others wiser than yourself.

Moms Notes: "It is not isolation from the world but immersion in the word that allows us to be in the world but not of it."

George goes swimming!

2009-06-14T21:48:00.006-04:00

All was not well in our house today, for poor George went for a swim. Who's George you ask, swim where you say? George would be Chase's stuffed animal Curious George, and the preferred swimming hole was the potty. I heard the two cohorts laughing quietly in the bathroom (loud laughter is usually safer than quietly laughter) and went in to investigate. I found the two of them watching George as he sat in Chase's potty seat on the potty! We have lost some binks (pacifiers) and cars to the porcelain swimming hole, but never a stuffed animal. I calmly explained to Chase that the potty was a place people to pee and poop and not toys . I grabbed poor George by the hand and led him to the trash, to be his final resting place. Chase of course had a huge meltdown and ended up in time-out! I know it sounds harsh, but I wanted Chase to get the point and not to do it again. At the moment, George is in a plastic bag awaiting my decision on his fate. I may try to wash him or just pull out the spare we have. Ahh, life with a three-year-old!!!

Changes!!

2009-06-13T14:42:00.007-04:00

We have been battling with Mariah's skin for months now. She breaks out in red patches all over her body and then after a couple days they go away. They don't seem to bother her, but they are annoying the heck out of me. Is it ring worm, eczema, rash or irritation?????? Our pediatrician kept saying it was eczema, but all the lotions and washes we tried were not preventing new patches. Then my friend Abby found our new miracle in a bottle, California Baby products. It is very expensive but you can find it at Target. The bottles run about 18.00 to 20.00 a bottle. Let me just say miraculous. In two days her patches were almost gone, and we haven't seen any new ones in a week!!! Thank you Jesus!!! We are only using the body wash, lotion and sun block right now, but we will probably try their other products as needed.

In other Mariah news, as well as standing and starting to walk (3 steps so far) she has discovered the stairs. She has always known they were there, but didn't dare to defy my scolds to climb them. Well apparently at 9 months she has become brave. Jordan and I each thought the other had her, well no one did. In a panic, I found her halfway up the stairs. Okay, now the gate at the bottom of the stairs is a permanent fixture. I do feel sorry for Chase, who at 3 now has to yell and plea for Jordan and I to lift him over it.

The other day I felt so bad for him. I was upstairs dressing Mariah with the top gate locked and Chase was downstairs playing. I had left the bottom gate on because I knew we were going to be back downstairs to play. Chase started whining for help and I yelled back he would just have to play patiently in the playroom until we returned. Well apparently he got tired of waiting and climbed the bottom gate, but to his dismay the top gate was also locked. Now he was stuck in the middle with no where to go. I found him 10 minutes later on the middle step with his hands on his knees saying "I'm still waiting."

By the way, in these next two pictures Jordan is just out of view of the camera. I didn't want anyone to think I would endanger Mariah just for a good picture!!!!

Videos!

2009-06-11T15:23:00.006-04:00

Mariah is starting to talk and she will say ball, mama, dada and uh oh. But as you see, she did not feel like performing!! Oh well, it is still cute. I think its funny to see her clapping and doing "so big" like Chase used to do. Maybe I can video her taking her 3 steps, walking here we come!!!

Chase is singing the "The Bitsy Bitsy Spider." He apparently prefers the bitsy bitsy spider to the itsy bitsy one.

Thank you Dr. Chase!!

2009-06-09T14:31:00.011-04:00

Chase received a doctor kit for his birthday, and I really had no idea he would love it so much. We have been playing with it all the time during out "sibling free playtime" (a whole other story). The first time he checked my heart I said "Thank you Dr. Chase" and now he expects me to say it every time.

I will say that I do have to watch the shot giving because Chase tends to jab her in the arm and the scissors sometimes get stuck in her hair. I will give him points for correct scissor holding though!!

Who knows, maybe Chase will drop the train fetish and move onto being a doctor! Well enjoy the pics of my little man growing up and my little princess catching up!

Natural Consequences!

2009-06-07T00:20:00.003-04:00

In most of the parenting books I read they talk about different types of consequences in discipline. One of the types of consequences is natural consequences. Like if you walk into a wall, that is a natural consequence for not paying attention to where you are going. Well here are the two most recent of Chase's natural consequences!!!

First skinned knee of the summer season from running on asphalt when told not to!

I was not home for this one, but apparently he was running in the playroom and hit the floor!

Presents from Disneyworld!

2009-06-07T00:07:00.003-04:00

Jordan's sister Jacklyn stopped by today to see the kids and bring them presents from Disneyworld! She brought Chase a stuffed turtle Crush from the movie Finding Nemo, and Mariah a stuffed baby Belle from the movie Beauty and the Beast. Jacklyn picked Belle for Mariah because it looked the most like her. Funny thing is, Belle is one of the nicknames we have for Mariah (don't ask me why). Thanks Jacklyn!!!!!

My cake!

2009-05-30T22:43:00.002-04:00

I submitted Chase's George birthday cake to the coolest birthday cake website and I just found out that they used my picture! Guess they thought it looked pretty good! This website is good for getting cake ideas and tips, and just fun to browse when your bored! The link to my cake is http://www.coolest-birthday-cakes.com/coolest-curious-george-birthday-cake-51.html. Enjoy your cake browsing.

Well visits!

2009-05-28T14:44:00.002-04:00

Last week I took both the kids in for their well visits. Thankfully they are both doing well and very healthy, thank you Jesus.

Chase - 3 years
30 lbs (32%) and 36 in (10%)
Our pediatrician was impressed that Chase knows his colors, shapes, numbers (up to 10), and the alphabet. Unfortunately Chase is still not potty trained, which is still okay at 3 for those who are shocked, but he gave me some good tips. I tried to prepare Chase on what the doctor would do to prevent meltdowns, but the nurse threw in a surprise when she went to take his blood pressure. I was a bit nervous, but Chase did great and was very interested. I think it helped that he got a doctor kit for his birthday and we had played with the blood pressure cuff, thanks Donna!!! Oh, and just to let you moms of future 3 year olds know, at their 3 year well visit the pediatrician may check to make sure they have 2 testicles. Yeah well I didn't see that one coming either. Well he finally found both of Chase's after much WWE wrestling on the table. Great I have a whole to wait for that again!

Mariah - 9 months
16 lbs (5%) and 26 in (5%)
Mariah is keeping up with her brother. She is hitting all her milestones, and he was impressed on how fast she is moving. She is quite small for her age (in weight) but that seems to be the trend for our kids, and he wasn't over concerned. He did enlighten me on the bug spray topic. Mariah had been having bad areas of eczema, which he thinks were caused by organic deet free spray. He said to go ahead and use 10% or less deet. He said if you are going to put something on their skin it might as well work! He said that the organic deet free sprays are loaded with flower oils which can cause bad rashes and eczema in some kids, interesting!

Strawberry Picking 2009!

2009-05-23T23:14:00.005-04:00

This morning some friends and I took the kids to pick strawberries at a local farm. I was a little hesitant because of last years adventure with Chase. I will sum up last year for you: squishing, running, throwing, yelling, crying, tears, car. I'm sure you get the picture. I guess turning 3 made a big difference in his agricultural interest because he did quite well. This year was Chase's 3rd year going picking and Mariah's 1st, it's rapidly becoming a tradition. Jordan was working so I dragged mom along to help. The field was very picked over and the strawberries were mostly spoiled, but it was still nice for the kids to get out and enjoy doing something different. I have been thinking about planting my own garden to teach the kids about growing food and the importance of "organic" growing, but I am so busy with Mariah at the moment. So for now we will just enjoy the fruits of someone else's labor! By the way, the pictures are courtesy of Hannah, I forgot my camera. Thanks girl, you always get great shots!!!

Belated Presents!

2009-05-23T16:11:00.003-04:00

Jordan and I are trying to fix up the front of our house little by little, even though that is very hard for me. So for my birthday I asked my parents for a bench to put on our front porch. Well since my birthday was in January and patio furniture isn't really in high demand in the dead of winter, I had to wait. So Mothers Day weekend my parents took me out to pick out a bench. I wanted something simple but cute and I finally found the perfect one. My mom bought me some hanging baskets for out porch for Mothers Day, they really make the front of the house look nice. The funny thing is that everyone who comes into my house hits their head on the basket, it is really getting hilarious. Look up people!!!

Now that Chase has a workbench (birthday present), he has been using his tools all over the house. He was so excited to help daddy put the screws in, unfortunately daddy just wanted to finish the project!

Finished!! I love it. Now I need to get some flowers around it.

Chase's Birthday!

2009-05-17T18:37:00.006-04:00

It has been a crazy week for me, so it is a week late that I am posting birthday pictures. Sorry! We did a small party this year, just close friends and family. With two kids it is getting harder to do some things. We did a Curious George theme this year, anything to get away from Thomas the Train!!! So on request from my 3-year-old, I had to make a "George face cake." I do have to mention that after being up bright and early that Saturday, slaving away for the George cake, and proudly displaying my efforts to him, he says "Mama, I don't want a George face birthday cake, I want Thomas." I kept the grumblings to myself said what any mother would have said, "Maybe next year dear."

The George face cake! Three hours to make and only 5 minutes to eat!!
Jordan told me to send it in to Ace of Cakes, but I think they could do much better.

I think at three, kids finally have the excitement of ripping paper.

Chase's present from Grammy and Grandaddy (my parents), a Home Depot workbench. Its actually quite neat, it has pretend wood with things you can make. Not to mention the very loud circular saw Jordan bought to go with it.

Chase's first bike, a present from Paw Paw and Dana (Jordan's parents).

Uncle Dave showing Chase how to really ride a bike.

The kids first dinner party outside, apparently there was lots to chat about!!

3 Years Old!

2009-05-14T21:48:00.007-04:00

It's amazing to me how fast 3 years goes by. I remember that scary day when Chase was born and I thought that he might not make it. I remember having to leave the hospital empty handed and trusting strangers to care for my most treasured gift. I remember the day we took him home from the hospital, fragile and small. I remember feeling peace, that God would protect his child.

Chase is a "Mama's Boy" to the fullest. He can be sweet and sensitive, but is very strong-willed and stubborn. He lives each day with a burst of energy. He always has a colorful expression on his face and a crazy thought in his head. I love to watch his face tense with thought when faced with a challenge and then gleam with satisfaction. He has definitely been a challenging child with all of his temper tantrums, attitudes and moods, but I have learned to rise to the challenge. In three years I have learned: never ever wake him up, always have a snack ready, be consistent with discipline and never ever skip his nap! I never thought I could love someone so much until my eyes saw him. Happy Birthday Chase, mommy and daddy love you!!!!
(Chase at 3 months old)

Pics!

2009-04-28T21:39:00.003-04:00

Mariah drooling over her favorite "American Idol" Kris Allen as he sang "The way you look tonight" just for her!

Looking at Buffalo.

D.C. for the day!

2009-04-28T21:20:00.003-04:00

Well Jordan wanted to get away for the day on Saturday, so he suggested the zoo. The D.C. zoo!! So we packed lunches and headed for a day trip. Well, may I suggest if anyone tries this let me make a suggestion: NEVER go on a Saturday, when it is 90+ degrees, and try to park in the zoo parking lot (as if one would think cars park there). I think there were at least 9 million people there enjoying the same idea. The heat was manageable with lots of water and shade. The worse part of the whole thing was the parking. Apparently only 50 cars can park in the lot, so you have to park on the street. Oh okay, well did I mention that we are in downtown D.C. on a Saturday!! We drove around for a hour looking for a spot on the street that was closer that 20 blocks away. Finally after some prayer (I was about to lay hands on the street), a woman (God bless you whoever you were) was leaving one block from the zoo. Praise Jesus!!! The kids had fun and were actually very good. The animals were great, especially the elephants and the hippo, but I was disappointed in no giraffes. And did I mention hero daddy who had to track down Mariah's lost blanket over a million square feet of zoo, and found it!! We did enjoy a getaway, but would love to go back on a weekday in cooler weather, and ride the metro. It was so hectic out that I had no time to take a picture (you know it had to be for me not to snap some quick shots), but I did manage to snap this one of the kids at the rest stop.

8 months old!

2009-04-21T14:36:00.004-04:00

Unfortunately she does not have enough hair to put a clip in yet. This was the first time I was able to actually make it stay for more than 6 seconds. Oh well, we shall keep trying.

Buffalo

2009-04-21T14:26:00.004-04:00

As you may recall, I posted pictures last year of our little rabbit. This is the 3rd year in a row that we have had a rabbit have babies in our yard. Last year she had 4 babies under Chase's slide, and this year she has chosen the tree for her home sweet home. I haven't noticed any babies yet, but she is sure pleasantly plump! I figured since she is becoming a part of our family she should have a name. I threw out lots of names to Chase, but at lunch one day after dismissing all of my suggestions Chase said "I will think mama." Two hours later he came running to me with the name of all names, "Buffalo" he shouted! Well there you go, Buffalo it is.

Twinkle Twinkle

2009-04-20T20:41:00.002-04:00

Chase and his version of "Twinkle Twinkle."

Milestone

2009-04-17T22:03:00.005-04:00

I noticed a week ago that Chase is finally getting his 2-year-molars in. Oh, did I mention that he will be 3 next month. Oh well, all that matters is he is getting his teeth in, not when! But you know it is bugging me like crazy that his teeth aren't following the eruption table!!!

Best friends or not!

2009-04-16T14:06:00.002-04:00

The other day I was so excited to hear my 2-yr-old utter "Mama, you are my best friend." I enjoyed it so much I asked him again, "Chase, who is your best friend?" "Thomas" he utter back without hesitation. :( Oh well, it was sweet while it lasted.

Spring pictures 2009

2009-04-14T22:24:00.000-04:00

Happy Easter!!!!

2009-04-12T22:43:00.002-04:00

Happy Resurrection Sunday! As a child of God, born and saved by his grace, there is no greater day to celebrate than Easter. Thank you God for paying the price and allowing me spend eternity with You one day! He is risen, He is risen indeed!

Well as you will notice the first part of Easter Sunday started out well, but by the end we were melting fast, that is, Chase was melting fast!! At least you can see their cute little outfits!

Lord, are you teaching me to vacuum???

2009-04-09T14:33:00.003-04:00

Tuesday afternoon the kids were playing in the den and I walked into the kitchen to wash a bottle for Mariah. I heard her coughing, but didn't think much of it because we are all sick. After a minute or two I heard a gasp and ran in to see Mariah fall back and stop breathing. I grabbed her up and screamed for Jordan. I laid her face down in my arms and started back blows. After about 3o sec she coughed up a large piece of wood, who the heck knows where she got that. Of course she was fine, but it really scared me. That happened to Chase at about the same age at Mom's house. After I calmed down I was thinking of what God could possibly be teaching me through this incident, and then I thought, Lord are you teaching me to vacuum??

Moments!

2009-04-08T23:10:00.002-04:00

God has given me yet another great week with my most treasured gifts, my children. Even while I feel sick as a dog, just about to hack up a lung, my kids never cease to make me laugh out loud.

Pat a cake!

2009-04-08T22:58:00.003-04:00

"Pat a cake,
pat a cake,
baker man,
bake me cake fast you can,
roll, roll, roll
deh-dah-lee-dah-lee-dah-lee-dah-lee." - Chase Binder

More Milestones

2009-04-02T16:05:00.003-04:00

In the past month Mariah has been doing new things everyday. Her crawling is getting better and better, she is starting to say sounds "dah," and now she is pulling herself up on whatever she is close to. She is even starting to take steps, while holding onto something of course. Oh, and by the way, remember when I mentioned that she was our mellow and calm child, well she outgrew that. Mariah is turning out to be as wild and full of energy as Chase is!!

Food Fun

2009-04-02T14:28:00.002-04:00

I found these cool pancake molds at Williams & Sonoma. I am trying to be more creative in my food preparation for Chase, just to make it fun. I liked these because they were only $18.00 for a set of three molds (Lion, Monkey and Elephant). Chase loved them, but I think the most comical part was watching my try to make them the first time. As you can see the elephant didn't make it, the monkey was a little crispy, but the lion was perfect!!!!

Is there room for prayer?

2009-03-11T22:04:00.002-04:00

Tuesday night I ran up to the store for some grocery's. While sitting at the stoplight, I started reading the bumper stickers on the truck in front of me. The first one caught my eye, "Religion kills brain cells" and the second took my breath away, "Nothing fails like prayer." Even now, I shudder to strike those keys. I immediately started praying for the soul in that white truck. My mind started to ask why? how? What could make this person put that sticker on their vehicle? Was it a tragedy, an unanswered prayer, a wrongfully answered prayer? I started to beg God to touch this person, to have me or another Christian come into their life that day. I felt like I had to intercede in prayer for a person I didn't even know. My thoughts then wandered to an even more disturbing event earlier that week. A woman I know received a phone call at work telling her to pick up her daughter from school because she had just tried to commit suicide on school grounds. What is worse, the daughter is 7!!! Oh yes world, we need prayer now more than ever. Why, because God is there when no one else is, God is there waiting for us to spill out our worries and fears, and most of all, because God will never leave us or forsake us. Please take a moment to pray for all the "white trucks" that you see on a daily basis, and all the "7-year-olds" that feel they have no where else to turn.

. . . and more pictures!

2009-03-03T13:54:00.001-05:00

To be a child again.

2009-03-03T13:36:00.002-05:00

Last week Jordan and I took the kids to the Children's Museum. I was very surprised at how much stuff they had for the kids to do and how well it was laid out. The place is very spaced out and has plenty of room for kids to run and play. There is learning for all ages. Chase had a blast, but you could tell he was a little overwhelmed and shocked by all the millions of kids there. He ran from one thing to the next without stopping, and made a few friends (I wonder who he gets that trait from!). The train room of course was the highlight of my child's day. Of course they had train tables set up for the kids to play on. They were great, but the agony of leaving had Chase in the restroom twice for a little redirection and lesson in obedience!!! We will definitely be going back in a couple of months, hopefully this time all of the tidewater school system will not be there!!

Mariah on the move!

2009-03-01T21:36:00.003-05:00

Mariah has been crawling and sitting up since 5 months, but being a busy mom of two I have just recently had time to film it. Mariah is doing things much faster than Chase did, probably because she can either move out of his way or get bonked. She is a very funny little thing, she only crawls to things she really wants. Most of the time she is dying to get her hands on one of Chase's toys or secretly slip into his room. Of course then I hear, "No Ma-ya-ya, don't touch it. Mama, Ma-ya-ya is touching." Oh my, sibling rivalry has begun!!!

The Binder Family

Sorry kids . . . . . . Mama is CHEAP!!

Teeth

Pumkin Patch

My blessings!!

Yes, I'm still blogging!!

Welcome Ayla Grace!!!

My fairy little princess!

Day on the farm

Pumpkin Patch, Finally!!

Pumpkins

Getting Crafty!

Dirt and Dirty!

Our life!

Summer life!

Baby Binder #3!

We love local strawberries!

4 Years Old!

Zoo Fun!

Fun with Friends!

Summer Fun

Updated pictures

Baby #3

The Gash!!

Need for Peace!

More Videos!

Videos!

All-in-one!

Stockings!!

Puddle Jumping!

Christmas Tree Time!

Playing House!

Day on the Farm!

Mess-free pumpkin carving!

Growing & Learning!!

Chase's Halloween!

Presents and Popcorn!

Fun Pics!

Pumpkin Patch and fall flowers!

Lazy Days!

Leaves and Shoes!

Thomas' Travels!

Birds and the Bees!

First pair of Shoes!!

Grandaddy's Gift!

No Idea!

Sand and Ice!

First Birthday Party!

Happy 1st Birthday Mariah!!!

Talking about Crabbies!

Crabbies!!

Grocery Shopping!

OBX Videos!

OBX, Oh how we miss you!

Out of the Mouth of Babes!

Barrel Full of Monkeys!

Found you!

Lovin the tub!

More Walking!

Just a day!

Very Sad, But Worth The Education!

Caught Walking and Reading!

Just for fun!

Food, Fun & Fireworks!

Beach Trip #2

Summer Photos!

The Perfect Day!

Cool Story To Share!

2 Quick Videos!

Weeds and more weeds!

Change who? . . . Me?

George goes swimming!

Changes!!

Videos!

Thank you Dr. Chase!!

Natural Consequences!

Presents from Disneyworld!

My cake!

Well visits!

Strawberry Picking 2009!