A Little Moore

Big Girl!

2012-02-17T20:49:00.000-08:00

We had Ruthie's big 2 year old appointment today (her last well child appointment in Seattle,) and our little bugger is getting big! She's 26lbs 9.6 oz and 34.75''.
She's 50th percentile in weight, and 73rd in height! That's a big jump from her 14th and 8th! Big girl.

Showing off her creation from Story Time

I love you, my boo bear!

Sunny in Seattle

2012-02-06T13:35:00.000-08:00

These past few days in Seattle have been GORGEOUS! Like "Midwest Spring" gorgeous...not "Seattle Spring," that's more like "Seattle Winter," and "Seattle Fall" aka: 40's and rainy. But it's been sunny and in the 60's! What the heck?! Should we open the pools now?
On Sunday, we trekked down to Lincoln Park, and played on the beach.

I freaking love the swing!

It was tempting to swim IN the water, but not allowed by mama and dada

Some senior pics:

And of course, in good ol' Seattle child fashion, Ms. Ruthie complained about the "Sun in EYES!!!!"

She took care of it, though

Happy 2nd Birthday!

2012-02-03T13:48:00.000-08:00

Today, at 11:13 am PST, my little Ladybug turned 2. Can you believe it? I am seriously in denial!
Two years ago, this was who I was holding:

Seriously, the sweetest baby ever

Two is a threshold age for me. It's the threshold from babyhood to kid-hood. This next year, she will turn into a kid, and as excited as I am for that, a part of my heart doesn't want to let go of my baby. I remember dreaming of what she would be like at age two. Is she what I expected? Not exactly, but at the risk of sounding cheesy, she's even better!
I mean, COMEON! LOOK AT HER!

Here is a picture of my birthday girl on her birthday.

Some of the cute things she is doing right now:
- "Ello, Gov-ner!" (She's British)
- She loves yoga, and walks around saying "Namaste!" Yesterday, at story time, she and her neighbor friend were doing downward dog - because story time is a perfect time for yoga!
- "Hi (insert name here) I MISSED YOU!!!"
- "Thank you mommy, you're welcome!"
- She speaks in whale (from Nemo) "HELLLOOOOOOOOOO"
- "Knock knock" who's there "owie" owie who "OWWWIIIEEEEEEE" (yet again, in whale.)
- Ruthie, who's the boss? "Ruthie boss? Punkin boss? Mommy boss? Daddy boss?" yea! Mommy and Daddy are boss "Ruthie boss?"

Wednesday, we went out to do some "big girl" things like...her first big girl hair cut! Here is what the Salon at Kids Club gave us for her first professional haircut!

Here is the final product! You can't see it, but there is pink glitter in there...Ruthie asked for it.

Lil bob!

Happy birthday, my big girl. I can't believe it's been two years. You are who we specifically prayed for, and I love you more than you know!

My Little Snowflake

2012-01-31T13:53:00.000-08:00

The snow storm came...and they meant what they said about "snowmaggedon." We were snowed into our house from Wednesday until that Saturday - we couldn't even play in the snow because an ice storm came after the snow! It was super slick! We then got out into the living slushie that was our streets (I really wanted to bring some cotton candy flavored syrup to pour on top...a little dirty, but nothing a little cotton candy goodness couldn't fix! I kid...sorta) and hopped on an airplane to Indiana.
While we were there we had a "snowflake" themed birthday party for Ruthie - how fitting! We had a hot chocolate bar, s'mores and hot soup. We had a wonderful time finally celebrating our Ruthie's birthday with family and Hoosier friends!
Decorations:

People Pics:

One of our few family pictures

Big family picture

Birthday Girl

Blowing out her candles!

Favorite picture of the day!

My baby's turning 2 on Friday, and I can't believe it. I will tell you what I CAN believe...it's been the best two years of my life! That's not the mommy saps speaking, that is the truth!

Snowpocalypse 2012

2012-01-17T13:47:00.001-08:00

Seattle gets snow MAYBE once a year. (people say less, but we've gotten snow every year we've lived here.) The city doesn't handle snow very well. We have MAJOR hills (so, therefore, not many snowplows. Who wants to drive snowplows up crazy hills?) MAJOR hippies (the salt on the streets might hurt the fish, you know) and MAJORly inexperienced drivers...less than ONCE a year. This weekend, we had a couple inches fall at our house. With all these risk factors combined, we had 137 traffic incidents in the city before 8:30 am on Monday. Did I mention we only had a few inches? It's since melted, but they are calling tomorrow...THE SNOWPOCALYPSE. This could get interesting.
This is Ruthie's first year to ~~PLAY in~~ EAT the snow...and we had some fun times!

Sweet feet

Yep, this snowman tastes JUST right

She took her own gloves off, don't judge

SO COLD, BUT SO GOOD!

Wish this city luck!

Reality Check

2012-01-06T14:14:00.000-08:00

I pride myself on being an honest and realistic mama. Don't get me wrong, I think that my kid is the best in the world (I told you I WAS realistic and honest,) but I can also admit when she's driving me bonkers or even when she's looking a bit pasty and ragged (like when she's tired or sick...like her mama!) I feel like moms feel pressured to claim that life is all roses, they are perfect moms, and their kids are perfect, even though it isn't true (or maybe they actually feel this way...as 90 percent of playgroup moms in Seattle claim this...but don't worry, they quote "studies" to back up their bizarre parenting practices.) Which makes new moms all the more confused when they experience reality.
So, I don't know why it's so hard for me to admit that this age is tough for me. I love this age, she is so bright, she talks to me, she remembers things, she plays and she has a sense of humor. But with all this comes lots of fits, purposeful disobedience, and constant shot nerves...sans rational thinking. I think that 26 months+ is 75% easier than 18-25 months (don't ask why I chose 75%, k? I did my research-ish...plus, 100 was too much.) Because I feel this way, I also feel GUILTY all of the time. She's such a blessing, I know this in my head and heart. But, she.wears.me.out. I would say this is my stage, not hers, but the toddler room had the EXACT effect on me when I worked with kids. Baby room? loved! Toddler room? EXHAUSTING! My twos room? LOVED! New kids in my room? Wore me out until about a month or two AFTER the transition. Then, I was golden.
To be honest, the biggest guilt comes from somewhere else. This age might not be my favorite, but it definitely has its perks. The guilt comes from the fact that (because she is this age) for the first time in her life, I need breaks. I took them when she was younger, but not because I needed them, but because I was told I needed them. Now...I need them. I've never felt this way before. She was such an easy (yet still spirited) newborn, baby, and even early toddler. Suddenly, I need them. Ask my mom, who witnessed firsthand her 15 min fit on the floor of the movie theater because she wanted another bag of candy. A part of it is cute, but for the most part, I get judgey eyes from other people and it is exhausting. As much as I can ignore the fits, this girl is strong willed (the baby whisperer calls her "spirited.")
So, I need to stick with my realistic mama tendencies and admit, I can feel two different ways at once. This age is hard for me, but I also love many parts of this stage to pieces and I don't want to see her grow up too fast. I love my kid more than my life, and even though this stage clashes with my control freak tendencies, I feel blessed every second of every day for her. I'm not promised another, so I am enjoying every piece of every stage, difficult or not. Plus, she so totally cute, I mean, LOOK at her! (see? REALISTIC! BAM!)

Speaking of judgy, she wouldn't touch any balls in the ball pit unless they were her favorite color

What happens when I leave her alone in the backseat with stickers

Happy 2012 (Christmas Part II)

2012-01-01T13:39:00.000-08:00

After all of the festivities throughout the week, we celebrated Christmas with family.

On Christmas Eve, we celebrated with Nana, Dadaw, Tin Tin and Bear.

Ruthie got some things that really celebrate her.

She's been really into "princesses," "Rella" (Cinderella,) and the color pink. I don't relate - My favorite color has been green since age 2, I never liked princesses, and (though I will admit to watching Cinderella for years on end,) I hated Cinderella's princess dress (I loved the mice and how they got to live in the walls of the big house!) So, the way Ruthie relates to "Rella" does NOT resonate with me. I DO, however, love letting her be her. (as long as there are no Disney themed bedrooms, clothes or parties - they literally makes me shiver.)

So, again, to celebrate Ruthie, Nana gave her this ROCKING princess dress from Melissa and Doug. She now wears it everyday...

I look SOOOOO good!

After pulling off this princess outfit, she decided to play us a ditty on the piano. Royalty attire and piano playing? She's so regal.

OHMIGOODNESS, I sound so good. Amiright? or amiright?

She also received tons of toys and kitchen things. I will NOT say I can't relate to this. Baby dolls and "house" were all I played as a kid...that, and 90210, but I'm not whipping out the "Kelly" attire and prom dresses for Ruthie just yet.

Meet Betty Draper...errr, what gender roles?

Ruthie didn't only receive gifts, but she gave some as well.

A coffee cup a la Ruthie

We got dressed up for Christmas Eve service and came back for dinner with the family.

HOLY COW! WHAT'S THAT?! Oh, wait, that's just a singing IU ornament.

a COMPLETELY normal family picture

Tin Tin, Ruthie and Bear

Nana, Ruthie and Dadaw

We woke up early the next morning for stockings. Ruthie waited at the bottom of the stairs until all males in the house had some sort of recording device ready.

Stocking time!

We didn't get many pictures at Mimi and Papa's house. Auntie Caca was sick in the hospital, so we were all a bit distracted and the whole thing was a bit shorter than usual. We'll make up that time later, no worries. We ARE thankful that Caca is healthy again.
Ruthie's favorite gift from Mimi? A new American Girl Bitty Baby with matching stroller and carrier ("backpack.")

Though this Christmas was a bit different than usual - no David, no Caca, and warmer than usual weather - we had a wonderful Christmas. It is always such a joy to just sit back and watch others love on my little one. We had a wonderful time in Indiana, and we can't wait for our next trip back.

Happy New Years! (Christmas Part I)

2011-12-31T21:21:00.000-08:00

Happy New Years to everyone. As a 2012 present, I thought I'd finally post some pictures of the first half of our trip back to Indiana for Christmas 2011. It was a crazy, eventful week filled with new molars, colds, weddings, parties, and lots of fun, so give me some grace with the untimeliness and the quality of pictures, please and thank you.

Here are some of the highlights:

Uncle David and Sarah got married!
Ruthie was the flower girl and pulled.it.off...as in: had a cold, got a new molar THAT DAY and needed a nap kind of pulled.it.off. But really, the refusal to move once she walked halfway down the aisle, the obsession with keeping the flowers IN the basket, and the best man/daddy having to go get her AFTER a crazy monkey dance to try to get her to walk the rest of the way made it awesome.

Rehearsal, learning the hymnal. Go on, quiz her. #471 - Come Thou Fount! NAILED IT!

Pre wedding with the bride.

Baby's first hot rollers! (it's a milestone in my family, OKAY?!)

So.pretty.

Having fun with the best man. ie; daddy

Playtime with dadaw

post wedding play time in the pews. Apparently, they are quite fun.

Post wedding brunch at Nana and Dadaw's

Ruthie, cousin Colton and Grandma and Grandpa Mobley

Some Grandma Moore bonding time.

Later that night, some friends came over with their little one, Ellie.
Ruthie would have NONE of mommy holding "Lalie" and still reminds me of how it's okay for "mommy hold Lalie." I guess she's still convincing herself. The funny part is, she has no clue they will soon be close friends. She really has no choice. Danny and Alex have been BFF's since 18 months!

What happens when a kiss is forced.

We also went to Mesker Park Zoo

A running hug to Dadaw...and maybe my favorite picture of the week

We also got some good "Chewie" time. (Cousin Lucy) Auntie Oofu, Uncle Eric, Madde, Will, Izzy and Lucy played a lot with Ruthie. Still, she can't get past the fact that mommy can hold another child. She kept insisting that this, too, was Ellie (only when I held her, if I didn't, she was Chewie...also, her Monchichi is "chewie" for hair similarity purposes only) and "mommy hold Lalie." Eventually, she'll convince herself.

I like can I touch

We also had Christmas at Great Grandma Rosie's. If you mention Grandma Rosie's, Ruthie automatically requests a sucker.
The coolest thing that happened there? She bonded with Bubba. Bubba (Ethan) is my cousin. We grew up next door to each other, and it's pretty fun to see my daughter love him so much.

Fun Bubba

If you mention "Bubba" now, she frantically looks around for him because she wants to play.

Loving gaze at her cousin Bubba

Ruthie's namesake is primarily Ruth, from the Bible, but we got the idea from my great aunt Ruthie, grandma Rosie's sister. Aunt Ruthie passed away many years ago. This Christmas, Little Ruthie got to meet Big Ruthie's sons! It was so awesome to see them all together.

Uncle Danny got to bond with his new, precious niece. I think she likes him.

Sweetest little girl cuddling with the sweetest uncle.

I love my family, and more pictures of Christmas are to come soon!

The Future of the Moores

2011-12-14T20:51:00.000-08:00

This past Monday was a big morning for us. It was match day for Danny. After 4 years of living in Seattle,

we found out that we will be moving to

Durham, NC

We will miss Seattle, and will always have amazing memories here. But, we are also super excited to move across country. Personally, I am very excited to live in the south, be able to drive to see family, see other children with bows (live in the south,) and live...near Fefe!
I am a little hesitant to again be associated with a devil as a school mascot (K-8 was enough.) But, I certainly don't need to worry about rooting for them because though we have lived in many places, we will always be Hoosiers.

Go Colts!

St. Nicks Photo Shoot Friday

2011-12-09T13:13:00.000-08:00

This Photo Shoot Friday is in celebration of St. Nicks Day that took place this past Tuesday.
Why in the world do I celebrate St. Nick's day, you ask?
I'm German and I was raised Catholic. We WILL have a pickle in our tree (except Ruthie broke our pickle ornament, and we are on the lookout for a new one) and we WILL celebrate St. Nick's day! It is celebrated on Dec 6 every year. Traditionally, you leave shoes out for St. Nick to leave a treat. Since I have a touch of OCD, we use our stockings, not shoes...those stay in the shoe basket, NOT to be touched. I get kinda sweaty, hivey and flushed just THINKING about storing toys and candy in our shoes.
Ruthie LOVED it. St. Nick brought her an Elmo and Big Bird doll to go with her "rover" (grover) doll she already has, some "Rella" magnets (Disney Princesses) and some candy canes. I am a big fan of oranges in the stockings, but St. Nick was in a hurry and forgot. To be honest, she would have been more excited about the orange than anything else. She's a bit twisted that way.

favorite toy, thus far

The pictures don't show, but afterwards, in a time honored tradition of being allowed candy on the morning of St. Nicks, Ruthie got a candy cane. She FLIPPED out over it. Who knew candy canes were such a bargaining token?
Since these pictures kinda stink in terms of quality, I decided to take some more today and post my favorite.

Pretty wind-swept face

Visiting "Ho Ho"

2011-12-04T12:24:00.000-08:00

We went to go visit Ho Ho this weekend. Fully expecting to get a traditional "crying child on Santa's lap" photo, we, instead, received these priceless works of art:

What in the WORLD, mom?

I've heard a lot about you...but I've got to wrap my head around this "big beard and fuzzy hat/suit" thing you have going on.

Luckily, he handed her a candy cane and the "I have NO idea what is going on here" attitude quickly changed to "I do NOT want to leave this guy." So, needless to say, don't let the confused looks/lack of smile fool you. She LOVED the guy and told everyone "I see HO HO!" while we were shopping afterwards. Too bad nobody calls him that but us - LOTS of confused people at Hanna Andersson.

Photo shoot Friday

2011-12-02T13:48:00.000-08:00

I can't promise these every Friday, but I will try. I have a crazy toddler who is much more difficult to photograph. She wants to see "Ruthie" while I take the picture. The vanity is apparent...

Today, we went for a walk around the neighborhood, and through the pea patch that I will NEVER garden in. But, good for you who do garden! (Dirt and spiders make me queasy, and the grocery store seems to serve me things JUST right.) I'm especially fond of the "sweats with church coat" look we have going on today. I'm seriously going to have a hard time going back to a city that cares how you dress your kid...

Why, hello there, and welcome to my garden!

Mom said it's OUR garden

See? over there, those are OUR vegetables, but we never have to take care of them, and we never have to water them, and..we..never..get...to EAT...said vegetables.

And also, how does mom garden if she's afraid of spiders...(side eye)

Ahhhhh, you got me mom

At least we will always have "Daddy's boat."

Christmas at the Moore's!

2011-11-27T19:55:00.000-08:00

Our Christmas decorations are up, and thanks to Pinterest we have some new things!

Christmas card wreath, a la Martha Stewart.

Ruthie calls these "hand" and flips out because she is still mad she didn't get to paint after making the handprints.

Danny's childhood tree.

Our creche we received as a wedding present.

Our "Christmas tree." Ruthie pointed out the "Christmas tree" today at church...very loudly...during a prayer. Bright side: she learned something new this year!

We also did our annual Christmas cookie baking this weekend. This time, Ruthie helped.

She kept wanting to use the "heart" cutter. Her favorite shape of the moment

We gave her a decor pen to use. Hindsight is 20/20, and the green will eventually wash off. I'm pretty sure of it.

Finished product. We got bored with it, hence the giant cookies to the right.

This year is even more fun to do all things Christmas. Ruthie is really into it, but is a little hesitant when I let her know we are visiting "Ho Ho" next weekend. Last year went smoothly, but every kid needs a "scared and crying child in Santa's lap" picture, right?

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-11-25T19:54:00.000-08:00

Happy day after Turkey day! We have so much to be thankful for this year. The (almost) end of residency, two new baby cousins, uncle David is marrying Aunt Sarah, and so much more!
We had a pretty low key Thanksgiving day. First, we did the annual Starbucks driven Turkey Trot at Lincoln Park.

Baby's first hot chocolate!

People watching while waiting for mommy and daddy to catch up. So poised.

They are having a deep conversation on what to be thankful for this year. Danny claims our health, our family, and all blessings from above. Ruthie claims "chocolate milk"

And she seems pretty set in this decision

"Come on, you know chocolate milk trumps all, people. Don't look at me like that."

After our walk and before our big meal, we went to go see The Muppets. It was pretty awesome, and, of course, something else to be thankful for.

She liked the "piggy"

Happy Thanksgiving, people. Go treat yourself to some chocolate milk

*Side note: today we set up our Christmas decorations (pictures to follow another day.) We have a Starbucks cup ornament. Now that she knows chocolate milk comes out of cups such as these, she has been staring and asking for (flipping out over) the "chocolate milk" consistently. She thinks we are keeping it from her by hanging it in the tree. I've created a Starbucks fanatic. Atta-girl

La-li Rose!

2011-11-23T18:12:00.000-08:00

We have another big announcement!

Ruthie has ANOTHER Cousin!

Elizabeth Rose came this morning weighing in at 7.4 lbs. Big girl, considering she was 3 weeks early! She is so beautiful, and we can't wait to meet her!
We call her Ellie Rose, even though Ruthie has renamed her already. Welcome, La-li Rose!

We're Back!

2011-11-20T19:56:00.000-08:00

We ARE still alive, promise. I know, all 9 of my followers are all "what the heck? what do I do with my life without this blog and its posts? What the heck is going on? It BETTER be good." Well, 9 faithful followers, I will TELL you...
It's been a rough few weeks for us.
1. 2 colds for Ruthie
2. A stomach flu for Ruthie
3. A 3 week ear infection for Ruthie (we didn't suspect it, okay, don't judge)
4. A stomach flu for me
5. A year long UTI (just discovered,) some other bladder issues, and possible giardia* for Pumpkin

* I may be exaggerating about the giardia, and I tend to get carried away when it comes to things such as these.

Add in this zero sleep due to it all, and you get why I've not prioritized the blog as always. But, thankfully, we are all well again. My child (whom the ear infection kidnapped and gave me a very grumpy and very unhappy child in return) is back. To catch you up to speed, here are some pictures of our little Ruthie...finally happy again.

Chilly walk in Lincoln Park

"Marching"

"skipping"

Boat watching

Ruthie and "Daddy's boat." We're going with it and letting her believe we own this ferry boat.

My favorite Fall picture this year

So, until further notice, we are thankful for our health, back to blogging, andPumpkinhasgiardia - who said that? - That is, until the vet calls tomorrow letting us know it was just because Pumpkin eats Ruthie's food all the time...that option would make more sense, but I would panic less, so why should I believe it? You people and your logic, AAALLLLWAYS trying to trick me.)

Happy Pumpkin Day!

2011-10-31T20:11:00.000-07:00

Happy Pumpkin Day, everyone...and no, this is NOT a day to honor our dog (though it could be, if you wanted it to...send treats and money to her owner. Also, she loves twix. Crazy, I know.) I grew up with a mother who called it "Pumpkin Day" to make it seem a little less scary...and evil. So, it has stuck in my world.

Remember my little Pumpkin Piggy last year?

Or my personal favorite of that day:

This year we got to actually ask her what she wanted to be (more like, "what's your favorite animal," but it was still against my will...I was up for a chenille poodle outfit decked with bows. I was also vetoed.)

She said "El-fant" and we gave it to her. Notice the bow: Mommy's small victory

Mimi was in town this past week, and instead of trick or treating, we got to go to the zoo with Mimi and some of the best people in Seattle ('s surrounding area,) Lily and company! Despite a cold, we had a great time. We love this family.

If you ask Ruthie, "LLLILY" is a "SHEEEEEP." More like a cow, but cute, nontheless

Notice the tight hold of the candy in both their hands...

What you don't notice from these pictures is that all the trick or treat stations (except one) gave out health food. Nothing says Halloween like string cheese, fruit leather, and soy protein. Don't worry, the dental tent came through! (As did Mimi, bringing her own stash of candy!)
Halfway through the zoo, the ears had to come off, and she morphed from an "el-fant," to "what's that girl in the grey outfit with a hat supposed to be?"

Mimi! I YOU!

To make sure we got optimal use out of the outfit, we also had a mini photo shoot/walk around the neighborhood. Pumpkin was invited for 2.5 seconds before her anxiety and lack of coordination kicked in, and she was sent home.
Enjoy the photos

See? Pumpkin made it...

Because elephants LOVE dandelions - surprised you didn't know that, mom


I'm thirsty...these work for the elephants at the zoo...my trunk is defective...


El-fant...NAILED IT!

Now, for your Pumpkin Day viewing pleasure, please enjoy the movie. Produced and directed by Danny*

*I would like to note that this song was also covered by *NSYNC...their European debut CD in 1998. Whoever knew that gets 10 points in my friend book.

Awesome hair, all of you, especially you, Chris. Still waiting on you getting back together. You promised...

Ruthie-ism #6

2011-10-23T21:12:00.000-07:00

"Okay, Mommy!":
A phrase used when asked to understand, or to show listening capabilities
see also; "Ess, Mem!" (Yes, Ma'am!)

Ex;
(mommy talking to somebody)
Ruthie: Mommy, mommy, toy!
Mommy: Talking talking, blab blab
Ruthie: MOOOOMMMY, MOMMY, MOM, MOM, MOOOOOMMMMMMMMY
Mommy: Yes Ruthie?
Ruthie: Play Toy
Mommy: Ruthie, right now mommy is talking to someone, when I finish you can play with the toys. Okay?
Ruthie: Okay, Mommy

Ex 2; (from this morning)

Ruthie: Breakfast!
Mommy: Okay, we are going to make the bed and brush your teeth, and THEN breakfast. Okay?
Ruthie: Es Mem! (very proud of herself)

Here is a video example of
1: this Ruthie-ism and
2: what happens when I take my eyes off of her for 1 minute to chop a vegetable
3: how she already blames Pumpkin for getting in trouble. Smart, little girl, but I'm onto you...(Please ignore mess)

Soon to be MRS. Meg!

2011-10-17T14:18:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, the Moore clan trekked to Leavenworth, WA for a little fall fun...and we were in for more than we bargained!
Let's begin from the start. Meg has dated this wonderful guy, Mr. T, (we'll call him that since fiance hasn't given us the okay to use his name in the blog world) since Meg-a-palooza 2009 ! Ever since then, each phone call has been answered, "You're engaged, aren't you!" by myself. And, since I have such a good sense for such things and/or (let's just go with and) this guy is such an awesome guy for my Meg, I finally received the phone call in which she answered "Yesssssss!"


Hey mom, your phone is ringing, I'm pretty sure it's Ms. Meg...

Me: Hey Meg!...(hesitantly waiting to hear her tone...I had decided just DAYS earlier to hold off on the asking in case it was a super sensitive subject for her...you never know.)
Meg: Well...aren't you going to ask?
Me: AREYOUENGAGED?!
Meg: YES!

Did I say MS Meg? I meant (almost) MRS MEG! Yeaaaaaa!

Well, I'm sure she's going to want me to be her wedding planner...let me get on it

How about...

THESE for your color scheme AND centerpieces!

I found this GREAT band in Leavenworth, and, good news,...THEY HAVE THEIR OWN LEDERHOSEN!

Also, they do a mean chicken dance!

We are so excited for you, Meg. Mr T is a great guy, and I can't wait to see you two married. We love you so much! Also...I'll break it to Ruthie nicely that she might not be equipped for the wedding planning job...

What?! She doesn't need me to plan?! I don't believe you, mom! I'M STILL AVAILABLE, MEG...DON'T LISTEN TO MY MOM!

Ruthie-ism #3

2011-10-08T19:45:00.000-07:00

Esus:
1. (noun) A word used when said child is answering specific questions.
Ex; "Who do we pray to?" or "Who do we thank?"
2. (noun) A favorite book
Ex; "Jesus Loves Me."
see also; Bible
3. (noun) A word used when said child doesn't know an answer.
Ex;
Mommy: We're going to be home soon!
Ruthie: Home? Punkin? Mommy?
Mommy: Yes, and daddy will be home, too!
Ruthie: Daddy? Doctor?
Mommy: Yes, Daddy is a doctor! What kind of doctor?
Ruthie: Eyes
Mommy: and what is mommy's job?
Ruthie: Ummmm...Esus?!

Ex 2:
Mommy (when leaving for LA): Ruthie, mommy's going to miss you so much! How are you going to remember to breathe with me gone? How will your heart beat?
Ruthie: Ummm....Esus?
A little dramatic, I get it. But, she got it right!

So, for Ruthie-ism 3 of 3: either she is a genius with answers, very connected with God, and thinks I'm especially holy...or (according to Meg) she's a Baptist...

Big News

2011-10-05T12:53:00.000-07:00

Frauntie and I are super famous...or maybe Frauntie and I just met someone super famous. Okay, we got to watch someone famous, have her dance past us, and be on TV for a split second. And by "someone famous," I mean, "the host of my favorite TV show (tied with the Duggars, of course,) Ellen DeGeneres!" ~~Eeeeeiiiiiiii~~ (A Celebritywatcher such as myself shouldn't respond so immaturely, so pretend like I reacted normally.)
Now that we are famously watching other famous people, I get a lot of questions. So, to streamline everything, I'll make a list of FAQ.

1. What were some of the last things you did before becoming such a celebrity(watcher.)
We visited famous cafe's

Such as "Urth Cafe" shown in every Entourage episode

We visited the stars to get to know our peers better.

Oh Harry, you are so funny...and you have such small hands...

I had to thank my namesake for her Kmart line. Classy, I know

We made some great friends with some famous ~~characters~~ people as well

They were so chummy

If I didn't know better, I'd say Cookie Monster is trying to look down my shirt...

2. How did you get said VIP tickets?
Kelly (also known as "Frauntie" to some,) volunteers for an amazing charity called The Invisible Girl Project. It is a ministry that works to bring attention to the female infantcide in India, gives a safe haven for little babies and girls, and educates girls and women while giving them various opportunities to thrive. My explaination gives it no justice, so please go to their website yourself and check it out.
This organization had a silent auction, and due to some pretty sweet connections, VIP tickets were auctioned and won by Frauntie! Knowing my ~~obsession~~ love for Ellen, Kelly gave me the option to go in with her. So, we made a girls weekend of it!

3. What was the Ellen experience like?
Amazing.
We checked in, and sat in the VIP area. You might be imagining red carpets and massages, and you can go ahead and believe that's what we experienced.

Free mineral water...it was free after I paid for it, that is.

Really, it was just separate benches with a VIP sign. That way, they can come give us tickets when necessary without the long line (if you saw the line, you would know the big perk there.)

That girl behind me looks bitter...really, lady, our benches were just as uncomfortable as yours!

We were then seated first. They tell you where to seat, and it kinda feels like dodgeball all over again - the nervousness of being good enough. Luckily, due to looking enough like their "target audience," I couldn't ask for better seats. We were in the 2nd row...and it was the "dancing row" Ellen dances through!
After that, we just did as they said...and had tons of fun! They make it so fun, I am sore from laughing so much.

I would like to thank Kelly for the amazing weekend. I needed a girls weekend, and I'm just glad Ellen got to join us! It was one of the best.weekends.ever. Cross that off my bucket list! Next in line, having a family dinner with the Duggars!

Yea Ellen!

The film you all have been waiting for!

2011-09-27T13:10:00.000-07:00

Okay, people, here it is. The blockbuster event of this Fall...SUMMER, 2011!
WHY haven't we been nominated for some kind of movie award? Can somebody please tell me?! I blame it on the title. Director and Producer, Danny M really needs to reconsider his creative team. I'm always available, but I demand a salary.

Despite the title preventing us from an award (or even a spot on IMDB,) it is still a pretty awesome film (we'll call it "film" to make it legit for the film festivals that are scouting us,) shot in HD (and you could always throw some 3D glasses on...it won't work, but you could pretend it does) with a pretty awesome child actress named Ruthie Anne!!! You can also check her out in "I used to be a child star" on VH1 in the year 2040 along with a really old Jodie Sweetin, Candice Cameron and probably that kid from Modern Family. So pop some popcorn, sit down, get comfy, and please watch.
(please note, the film has not yet been rated. If it were up to me, it's be rated A...for AWESOME!)
Also, I apologize for the quality, I could only upload the iphone version because of the size...and because You Tube is being difficult.

Ruthie-ism #174

2011-09-22T20:42:00.000-07:00

Boosta On:
A phrase used when said child is hungry, ready for a meal, or ready for a nap after said meal.
see also; "Nack, peeeeeeaaaaz?," "Beckfast??!!!"

Ex;
Ruthie: Boosta On?
Mommy: Okay, Ruthie, I'm making your lunch and then -
Ruthie: BOOSTA ON! WHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA
Mommy: Ruthie, patience please, you can get up in your booster as soon as I -
Ruthie (now rolling on the ground): BOOOOOOSTA ONNNNNNNN!
Mommy: Okay, up you go!
Ruthie: Yeaaaaaaa, tank you mommy (all said while semi giggling.)

Should I work on the patience, or applaud the thankfulness? Either way, I'm waiting for the time these toddler fits lose their cuteness/funniness. Let's see...hmmmm...nope, not yet!

Happy Birthday Uncle David!

2011-09-20T13:45:00.000-07:00

Uncle David's birthday was this past Saturday. We were visiting family, so I wasn't able to blog on his birthday, but WE DIDN'T FORGET, DAVID! PROMISE!

Ruthie wanted to know what he looked like 9 years ago on his birthday. So, I showed her this:

After she stopped crying, I explained that he has grown up since then, so no worries! He was merely a sophomore in high school in 2002. Now, he is a Medical Student and about to be a husband!

So, what does he look like now a days? Well, here is a picture of him at Christmas!

Here he is! Ahhhh, Dang it.

Ruthie really loves her uncle David. It's easy, because he looks so much like Daddy! He has picked up uncle-hood flawlessly, and he is a natural with Ruthie.

Loving her uncle David

Here is Ms. Ruthie's message to her uncle "Day Day!"

Happy Birthday, David! We love you!

Coeur D'alene, ID

2011-09-15T13:26:00.000-07:00

Over labor day weekend, Danny, Ruthie and I packed up the car and drove 6 hours in a car to Idaho (7 on the way home.) Our sweet friends, Gus and Jen, invited all of the 4th year residents to their family's cabin on the lake. Before this weekend, I only thought of potatoes when I thought of Idaho.
Coeur D'lene.is.amazing. The lake was as clear as could be. It if weren't 1-2 miles deep, you probably could see the bottom!
And of course, Ruthie had a blast.

Coloring Dr. Jason a birthday card!

Gus and Jen have 2 little ones. Their youngest is just 11 days older than Ruthie (they both decided to come early!) So, between playing with them:

and the water:

I'm all ready, throw me in!

Hooray! Daddy may be freezing, but I'm swimming!

Buddy Luke and his mama, Jen!

Ruthie was in her element!

So, thanks Gus and Jen, for inviting us to the cabin for a wonderful weekend!

Yea! What she said!

Ruthie-ism #578 :

2011-09-14T13:37:00.000-07:00

Shhhhhhhhhhh
see also; "Mommy, you be quiet"

Ex;
Ruthie: Eegie, Owl, Cafrin*! Bus!
Mommy: Yes, we are going to go get them, but no, they aren't on a bus, Ruthie, they are in school. School is a great place where you learn things like how to read, write, art, science, math...
Ruthie: Shhhhhhhhhh
Mommy: Did you just shhhhh me?! Don't you shhhhhh me! Etc
Ruthie: "Mommy, you be quiet!"

And that, my friends, is how a 19 month old can talk back...and put her mommy in her place. Is it too early to ground her?

*names to remain anonymous. But, good news! Her way of pronouncing them keeps them anonymous WHILE displaying her cuteness!

Seabrook, 2011

2011-09-13T13:13:00.000-07:00

We visited to Seabrook again this past weekend. Remember last year? Well, we wanted to visit one last time before we move. Plus, we wanted to have Ruthie actually ENJOY the beach, vs. just drooling on it.

What, do you ask, did she do to enjoy the beach? Well, let's have a looksie, shall we?

We played on a foggy beach! These pictures aren't even in black and white, it's just the way the light made it. Talk about fog!

First afternoon on the beach, love the fog...and Ruthie loved the freezing cold water.

Daddy, containing Ruthie from running straight into the water

We had lots of Daddy and "Punkeen" time.

Ruthie: Okay, mom, you decide what we are doing today while I sit on Daddy's lap. Pumpkin: Yea, what she said, get on it, lady!

We finally enjoyed a SUNNY day on the beach!

Finally, a sunny day on a Washington coast beach!

Why should I play in the ocean, when I have this small bit of water to splash?

Why don't I just sit down in my practically WHITE dress? Mommy should love this...

NO? No, you don't enjoy this, mommy? Fer real?! Welll, I'll just give you a dirty look, then...take THIS!

Contemplating life? Or contemplating how to escape the parentals to run straight into the waves...

I'M NOT HAPPY, DADDY...I WANT TO RUN INTO THE WAVES!

Still throwing a fit over it (seriously)

It's still going...now exacerbated by the fact that we are going to tell the water "bye bye" because of said fit.

We played at the park!

We went back to the beach AFTER a nap, in beach appropriate attire...

Jazz hands!

Still contemplating life, I guess

Did you know that the beach and evergreens can live so close together? Did you know my daughter walks on water? Okay, one of these isn't true...

My favorite picture of the weekend

Bye bye

So, I know this is a lot of pictures for one post, but I have even more, so consider yourself lucky ;) And please stay tuned for Danny's video.

I Love Lucy

2011-09-06T20:40:00.000-07:00

And she loves me! (or at least she will)

Big news on our family home front...
Ruthie has a new cousin!

Lucy Jaclyn Folz

(The middle name is no big deal, or anything...but let's just say I cried when mama Oofu told me!)

We welcomed Lucy today, weighing in at 6lbs 4oz, and all that weight is in her hair! (seriously, she has a ton...like a monkey, but only on her head.) She is precious, and Ricky Ricardo isn't the only person to love her...we all do! Tons!

What does Ruthie have to say about this new addition?!!

A Few Fun Talents:

2011-09-02T14:33:00.000-07:00

My daughter is the BIRD whisperer...

Psssst, hey Ruthie - you're feeding the wrong end.

I knew that...I'm the BIRD whisperer forgoodnesssakes

Come, my little birdy...feed from my magical training stick o' seeds

Then, off to a more difficult genre...FLIGHTLESS birds

Don't feel bad that you can't fly, I'll train you some special tricks in no time!

Yes, I'm THAT good...


Daddy...my assistant

And she also:
Climbs mountains! No big deal, right?

Comeon, Mommy...giddy up!

My big, strong daddy...climbing treacherous ground...

So treacherous that I fall asleep on my ~~mule~~ mommy!

Look daddy, birdy! Let me show you how to train it!

Last weekend was a busy one, if you can't tell...summitting Mount Rainer('s sunrise point,) the zoo, whew! She wore us out with all her talents. Maybe this weekend, we can have a say ;)

Chatty Mc Chatterson

2011-09-01T20:35:00.000-07:00

I hate to brag, but when I'm proud of little Ruthie, I feel like I should...when merited. Plus, I wanted to document this for the future when I forget.
Ruthie had her 18 month appointment last week (2 weeks late, I know. Slap my wrist.) And not only did she weigh in at 24 lbs 3 oz (45th percentile in weight...53rd in height, way to go, girl,) Dr. Franklin noted Ruthie's speech.
At one year, I counted 15 words...at 15 months, I counted 65...now, I lost count, and she adds so many per day, I don't think I can. At 16 months she said her first 3 word sentence. He noted that by age 2, a child should have 5-10 words and start to say 2 word sentences. I realize this is a guideline in order to address problems, so it isn't even an average, but after she pointed to the wall and noted a "lellow fish," he pointed out that she was doing just fine in the language department. Way to impress a non-family member with an MD! I blame it on Danny's brains...and my ability to talk...a lot.

Here is a list of her words she can use fairly regularly (and that I can think of offhand) - without prompt (in alphabetical order...just be glad it isn't a spreadsheet.) You can ignore, this is for documentation purposes.

Amen Apple Applesauce
Baby Backpack Ball Balloon (half of the time it's blablabluba, but she get's "boon" sometimes.) Banana Bath Beach Bear Bed Bible Bike Bird Blanket Blue Book Booster Bow Breakfast Bubble Butterfly (Budder-bye) Bye bye

Car Cheese Cookie Cow

Diaper Dog (doggie - first word) Dora Down Duck

Elmo Eyes Ears

Feet Fish

Hair Hi Hold Home Hot

Jesus

Kitty Knee

Love

Milk Monster Moon More Mouth

Nap Night Night No Nose
Orange Ouch

Park Play Please Poop Potty Pretty

Shoe Snacks Sock Stinky Stroller

Teeth Thank you Trash Truck Turtle

Vacuum Veggie

Walk Water Whale Wipe

Yellow Yes Yuck

Names:

Mommy
Daddy
Punkin
Ruthie and Ruthie MOOOORE
Mimi
Papa
Nana
Dadaw
Caca
Oofu
Titi
Bear (Aunt form, and animal form... :))
Da (David)
Madde
Will
Isaac
Violet
A*
A*
C*
*Names of kids that will remain anonymous but super special to Miss Roo :)

Noises (We won't count them, but if you ask me, onomatopoeia's count, right?:)

Phhhtttthhhh (when asked how an elephant sounds)

Meow

Ruff Ruff

Oooohh ooohhh ahhh ahhh (monkey)

Roarrrrr (lion...or giraffe, don't ask)

Vrroooommm (Car or vacuum)

Weeeeeeeee (what she calls a swing)

Phrases:

I love you

Bless you

Where's the papa? (first sentence)

That's mine

My mommy

My daddy
Yellow fish
We're home! Mommy, Daddy, Punkin
Pretty hair

Needless to say, it's fun to have a talking toddler, and less frustrating when she can tell me what she wants.

Happy Birthday Caca!

2011-08-31T16:07:00.000-07:00

Guess what yesterday was?!! Betcha can't guess! (not that the title gives it away)

Aunt Caca's birthday! (I bet she thought the pet name wouldn't stick...but it has, and it will...) Ruthie is so excited, she wants to tell Caca herself how she feels!

A look back on their relationship:

Some Christmas love

I [love] YOU Caca!

Don't ask why I don't have more photo documentation of the two of them together...I guess I only get more and more camera happy as I get older.


Dreaming of the day I can see my Caca again...

We love you so much, Caca!

Did you know?

2011-08-21T20:31:00.000-07:00

Our big girl Ruthie is a little person, with...

Hobbies (such as reading) and at SUCH a young age! (genius, I know)

Emotions, and expressing said emotions...such as loving her mommy

And, apparently, likes and strong opinions...

Favorite things

2011-08-20T21:39:00.000-07:00

I see so many blogs that do this, and though I don't have lots of people reading this, I think it WILL be fun to look back in 20 years and see how crazy, uncool, and retentive I was (or smart, I choose the adjective smart here...just go with it, people.)
Instead of doing my favorite things for the entire 18 months of my mommy-hood, I choose to do my favorite things of right now, having a crazy, messy, active, fun 18 month old...maybe I'll do a more inclusive list later...maybe.

I'll seperate my list into two categories, seeing as how the hippies won me over here in Seattle with their crazy hippy magic, yet I'm still a Hoosier. Don't see it as hypocritical, see it as open minded and starting to err on hippy-hood...or just see it as a identity crisis after living here for 3 years!

Hippy list

1. To go anywhere with a toddler, and to fit in with the PNW mommies, you MUST have one of these:

An Ergo carrier. Awesome, for the most part, pain free, and if your toddler is ESPECIALLY ornery, you can strap her on your back so she stays happy/can't hit you in the face out of frustration. NO, I'm NOT a baby-wearer, but those mama's use these because they are pret-ty comfy. Plus, now I fit in with the hippy moms out here ;)

2. Toddlers are a stink MACHINE (meaning, they can make anything stink whenever they want.) Ruthie's FAVORITE game of the moment is going to the couch and taking her sippy (all but one are leaky) and shaking the milk onto the couch. That stuff stinks in just a few moments. I'd say just Febreeze it, but what's in that stuff? I dunno, but I do know whatever I put on the couch, Ruthie will soon follow, wipe it with her hand and taste it. So, I use this:

Pure Ayre. It's FOOD GRADE ingredients, and I have YET to find anything that actually works this well...seriously. I go through about a bottle a week. (plus, it tells me on the bottle to directly spray the dog if she starts smelling between baths...I'll TAKE IT!)

3. I'm into disinfecting (mama loves me some bleach,) but I'm NOT into my child eating bleach (like I said, she REALLY interesting in tasting what I'm cleaning, and according to Martha Stewart, I don't need it. She's yet to let me down...so, I'm ~~pretending~~ trying to wean myself.) I love love love this product:

7th generation All purpose disinfectant. You can even use it on their high chairs. Score!

4. So, SOMEONE (ahem, Danny) has been against me cloth diapering, or even hybrid diapering since the beginning, so until I can ~~break him~~ convince him of my earth friendly ways, I thought I'd at LEAST choose a diaper that is better for the my child's hiney (albeit, it will STILL be in the dumpster in 50 years, DANNY.) It took me a good 7 months to find a good diaper. I found some I loved,

Attitude. They are compost-able (when wet, and only the inner part, but it's something,) made of cotton, and chlorine free. They are also really pricey, and I can only get them online...which doesn't work when I'm a busy mama...I need to be able to pick them up at the grocery.

So, I found these:

Pros: chlorine/dye free, she doesn't leak, and it is tan (so she can wear really cute white outfits without Whinny the Pooh (don't get me started) or Minny Mouse (seriously) to shine through.)
Cons: she ALWAYS looks like she has a dirty diaper...because, like I said, they are tan. They drive my sisters crazy.

5. California Baby products. The shampoo/wash is amazing, and when I use the Calming lotion on her, I want to put a wick on her and use her as a candle! (not really...kinda)

There are tons more here, but I don't want to over due it. These are just what I'm using the MOST of this particular(ly messy) week.

Non Hippy list

1. Hot Shot Spider Killer: Just don't let you kids play in it, unless you want a sick kid...or grandkids with 2 heads in the future or something. But, it works, it kills spiders, and the Lord knows I hate those things (really, He does.)

2. This toy, "blue." Stilllllll obessed.

3. She has loved this for months...and I don't see it stopping:

Why are my hippy favorites outweighing my non-hippy? Does that mean I need to get the heck out of Dodge? I'd say so, but I don't think I'm too bad, considering I label them "hippy" and not "normal," and I WILL take some of my magical tricks back with me (when we go) to the other side of the country and win others over...watch me!

And now for a shot of cuteness, because, let's be honest, that's why you are here.

My cup overflowith

2011-08-14T17:34:00.000-07:00

We had a very busy past few weeks. First, Mr. Corey came into town to visit Danny (and us, I'm sure,) then Sara and Tash, friends of mine from high school, came into town to visit us, and a few days later...Mimi and Papa came to visit! It is so great showing off Seattle to all of our friends, and I do admit, it is GREAT having some girl time (sans toddler) with girls that have known me for 14 years (don't do the math, please.) Living in Seattle, away from family and babysitters, and having an opportunity to have some good girl time while my husband ISN'T on call is amazing, I really needed that.
Unfortunately I have no pictures of the first two visits (just loving memories,) except these two from facebook:

The girls

giving kisses to Sara

Fortunately, I DID get pictures of Mimi and Papa's visit! More specifically, our day trip to Vashon.

Visiting the lighthouse.

Sweet walks with Daddy

Don't ask...she wanted to be in the "water" so bad...so Daddy did what he could.

The face I have been looking at ALL.DAY.LONG for a few weeks now..."Mommmmy!" Have to admit, I kinda like it.

Time with Papa

Seriously, they are in love

"Smile like Papa!"

"Airplane!"

True Love

I REALLY needed some family time. It is amazing to see your child grow close to your parents. I love to see Ruthie light up when she sees Papa and say "I love YOU" to Mimi (more like Ah La YOU.) She is at the age where she remembers Mimi and Papa, Nana and Dadaw, etc, from one visit to another. It is so awesome to see her little sweet face light up around them. It almost makes it worth it that I am chop suey when they are around (unless tired, hungry or hurt.) We are so blessed to have all of our visitors come into town. Our cup of love is refilled and ready until our next visit (hint hint friends and family.)

18 months Top Ten

2011-08-03T21:19:00.000-07:00

My little girl is 18 months today. That's so exciting, yet so...scary. There is something about having a child that makes me in denial that she will grow up. I guess you can call that savoring the moment (although some may call it denial.) She's half way to three! What.the.heck.
It's been an amazing 18 months. Honestly, as soon as she came into the world, I felt so blessed because I wanted to be a mommy for such a long time (I'm talking decades, here...not years.) I had a fear that I would be prime bait for PPD because I had wanted mommy hood so long, but I was one of the lucky few that looked at my newborn daughter and had no disconnect, no feeling like she was a stranger (these are normal feelings many warned me about,) she was my little Ruthie that I had prayed about for so long. I am so blessed for those positive feelings because Lord knows I'm not good with the negative ones. It hasn't been an easy ride, but a wonderful one. I used the line before, and I will continue to use it...mommy-hood is a "joyous trial." Many things happen that are hard to handle, but I can't help but to feel blessed to have to chance to deal with them (after I stop crying and flipping out, that is.)
Mommy loves you, my little girl, and I thank the Lord that He gave you to us to raise.

18 Month Top 10!

10. You know how to "shoosh" loud people...such as Aunt Oofu, or myself if you think Daddy is sleeping. You "shoosh" me, and then point to upstairs, or our bedroom. So offensive, little booger!
9. You play with toys, not just eat them. I love that you now like your stroller walker, even though you know how to not only walk, but run. A little late. If I try to put a doll in there, you throw it out and dump "blue," your favorite sorting toy, in there to push around.
8. You know Elmo...although you don't watch Sesame Street. Makes me wonder where they are marketing that I don't know about. I'm pretty sure you think the Elmo balloon at the grocery store is alive and your friend (ah-ha! That's where!) You talk to "Nelmo" frequently while shopping.
7. You climb, climb, climb. You even climb up onto the couch to watch TV. Unfortunately, you didn't learn to climb down until quite a few days later. You've got it down now.
6. You nod yes and no, and mean it! It's so much easier than when you were just testing it out and we guessed wrong!
5. You communicate with us, and you are not just saying words while pointing. I went to Target about a month ago and mentioned getting snacks while going in. After shopping a bit, I put some snacks in the cart. You looked at me and said, "Mommy, nacks?" (you had never used the word snacks before.) I said "what did you say?" You replied, "Num nums, nacks." I agreed, you shook your head yes and went on with the shopping trip.
4. Learned to eat with spoon. It's a messy process, but as of yesterday, you take the spoon from me if I try to feed you.
3. You talk in some sentences! Your first "Where's the Papa?" and "Let me down!" Now add to the list, "That's mine," "Go Potty, Punkin," and, my personal favorite, "I love you," (complete with sign.)
2. You have an all time favorite TV show...Veggie Tales. My goodness, that is my golden ticket in hard times. But, if you find the DVD case, it takes some major smarts on my end to get you to forget about your "Vega, vega," (insert dance moves here.)
1. You are a little kid now, who walks and talks, plays with the big kids at play groups, knows more than we think you do (for instance, while looking at Big Bird, you said bird! I agreed, you then said, "Lellow!",) is so independent, is often times a Mommy's girl (or Daddy's depending on who said "no" last,) and who's mommy is having a hard time letting go of her baby. I love you, my little girl. Keep doing what you are doing, and mommy's train of mind will catch up eventually.

Some 18 month photos!

For being 18 months (or for just bonking her head at the grocery store,) she got a free balloon! Let's just say, it made our day!

Sandestin, FL 2011 Part 2

2011-07-24T13:48:00.000-07:00

Family edition!

Here they are...the (many) remainder of Florida pictures.

These first ones are from the mini photo shoot we had on the beach.

Gracie...strike a pose

Such models

My little man, jcrew style.

Aunt Caca with her babies.

Rabuck family. Love Isaac in this

Daddy time.

2 Folz girls (soon to be 3 Folz girls!)

Folz kids

Some Aunt Caca love

Father son bonding

Folz family

They did this all week long...it's funny how they only have fun while holding hands and staring at the ocean ;)

Papa love

Aunt Oofu lovin!

All the grandbabies!

Thanks to Aunt Caca, we got a partial family picture.

Ruthie playing ham with her buddy, Madde.

Girls!

These next pictures are from the week.
Pay close attention to these next five...

Holding a parrot nicely

And....BAM

COMPLETELY terrified of said parrot

Don't ask why...she's usually the bird whisperer, thinking she can tame little birds by calling "birdy!" and walking quickly towards them.

Mimi's dream

Believe it or not, there were tons more I wanted to put on here...so just think of it as SO much shorter than it COULD have been! (glass half full)

We had an amazing time. Watching Ruthie have so much fun on the beach and so much fun with her cousins is a gift in itself. She learned so many words during the week and even said her first sentence!
"Where's the Papa?"
Followed by her second sentence on the plane trip home...
"Let me down!"
Nice, real nice.
(Her third sentence was "Dat's mine!" I love that she is learning to talk, but maybe we are not going in the right direction with the attitude...it's a work in progress.)
Hopefully, next time we can go, Danny can come as well. Then, we will get a REAL family picture, he can spend time with family, and most importantly, he can help keep Ruthie from running straight into the ocean. I'm still recovering.
Thanks Mimi and Papa for the wonderful vacation, we love you!

Sandestin, FL 2011 Part 1

2011-07-22T21:33:00.000-07:00

Recently, Ruthie and I set out for another adventure...Sandestin, 2011. Remember last year? Well, as much as we loved it, I would have to say this year was even BETTER! It was so much better that we need a two part installment. This is in order to keep people for losing focus due to my lack of ability to filter pictures. So, I bring you, Part 1 - the Ruthie edition.

Baytowne with Mimi!

I love my Mimi

WOW, zip lining!

Waiting with Papa for her ride!

I dunno about this...


Get.Me.Off...

The funny part is, the next day this little scardy cat pointed to the same carousel and said "Ruthie? Please?"

Baby pool bath water

Loving the ocean with Papa

No fear

Practicing a Yoga move called "flamingo."

I freakin' love the beach!

Sweet girl

Sweet tush

Reflecting life...or getting out of the heat, either way.

Actually, just playing with a wood chip, shocking, I know.

MIMI!!!

Not even afraid of sea weed.

Favorite game...running into the ocean until a wave knocks her down (or I stop her,) and running back out.

My happy place

I can't believe how much she loves the ocean and sand. Remember this? Told you! Guess what was more fun than the ocean? Spending lots of time with family! Please wait for the final Flordia post, Part II - the Family edition.

Introducing, Ms. Liza James!

2011-07-20T16:21:00.000-07:00

Big news: Ms. Eliza Gretchen James came at 2:30pm EST today! Weighing in at 8lbs 10 oz and 20.5 in long. We love you guys, and great job, Ms. Kristi! Visit her blog for pictures and more info when Mama James gets a chance to post it! All I have to say is, going to school with my best friend was great, but seeing her as a mommy (of now two) is even greater. And all Ruthie has to say is this:

We miss and love you guys! You are blessed, AND you are a blessing!

My Little Sparkler

2011-07-07T21:36:00.000-07:00

Last July 4th, I had a chubby little baba girl who could chew on her toes...look at those CHEEKS she used to have! This year, I have a toddler who can...

Organize her nesting blocks...she's pretty neurotic about it...

Talk: "Haaaaaaal, peeeeeeez?" (Help, please)

I did it!

Model. This is her "magnum" pose

Wear a bow sans head band: Yea for hair!

Still be pretty cute!

We didn't do much this year due to an on call Danny and post gastritis Ruthie. Apparently, people hurt their eyes on the 4th...a lot. Who knew (okay, we knew, but hoped for smarter celebrators.) Danny went in all night Sunday, all day Monday, and all night until he went to work on Tuesday. He literally came home for 2 hours the entire time. Remember people: Fireworks are fun...with protective eye gear. (there HAS to be a catchier tag line than that...and maybe we should throw in a protective eye gear mascot. Maybe a personified owl? With goggles and some little bitty shorts?)
Ruthie and I celebrated by dressing her festively for no apparent reason except to go to Target. But, to be honest, even though we didn't do anything, it's always pretty fun hanging out with my Ruthie. We got some really good QT that night when she stayed up until 11 due to the loud fireworks. We cuddled in bed until she stopped staring wide eyed in fright. Even though I hate her staying up late (I may be a bit neurotic with sleep, but don't tell Danny I admitted that,) I can never complain to get some extra cuddle time.
Happy belated birthday, America...maybe next year we'll do some sparklers (with protective eye wear, of course.)

An Alaskan Video

2011-07-03T21:55:00.000-07:00

Are you ready for it? Danny's one of a kind, all inclusive, never seen before, amazing, spectacular, fabulous Alaskan video? It's ready, it's uploaded, and as far as I can tell, You Tube hasn't muted any of the songs due to copy write! Hooray! Danny has really outdone himself, and I love that I have a husband and Ruthie has a Daddy that takes the time to do this!
Before viewing, a few notations first:

1. Almost didn't put this video up for the following reason:
- It looks like I'm flicking off Danny in the beginning. Due to the family friendly nature of this blog, I don't even like the INSINUATION! I didn't. Danny thinks it's funny that it looks like I did. That being said and understood, let's move on. (the reason I got upset before this insinuation is that...I'm in a swimsuit, he is taping...unhappiness ensues. I originally said no to this making the final cut, but he won't take it out, the rest is great, and I do like the footage of Ruthie swimming. Don't take this as me condoning this behavior, but merely making one exception.)

2. It's not that I FORGOT to mention this, it's just that I wanted the ~~pos~~t memories of the Alaskan cruise to NOT include what STARTED the last Saturday of the cruise, and didn't end until (it first affected everyone who might be related to us) yesterday. That's right a whole SEVEN days of what we assume is the Norwalk virus. Let's rephrase this. Adults had it for just about 48 hours (give or take 12,) Ruthie had it seven days. To top it off, Uncle David visited at the beginning of this. It is a blessing and a curse all at once. Blessing because I don't know how we could have survived with Danny, Ruthie and myself all sick at the same time without his help; a curse because his visit consisted of pediolyte, saltines and LOTS of bleach and fabric cleaner.

3. Please note in the video, we met a cardboard cutout of Sarah Palin! Also, we saw a pocketknife with her face airbrushed on it...for sale. Amazingness.

So, without further adieu...

Goin' to Alaska! (long post, accept my apology)

2011-06-27T14:17:00.000-07:00

Get this...we just returned from ALASKA. No big deal, right? These are the things that happen to you when you live in Seattle...or when you have in laws that plan an Alaskan Cruise WHILE you live in Seattle, either way.

We had lots of stops in places I had only heard about in Twilight books, and did some amazing things...such as zipline through a rain forest in Ketchikan, AK.

I am so hardcore

I would like to add that I received an award for MVZ (most valuable zipliner,) and though it MAY or may not have been made up by me, and I MAY or may not have forced our guides to give me an extra medal with MVZ written on the back, it counted. I DO NOT HAVE ISSUES.

We also did a Bike and Brew in Juneau. We biked 9 miles to the Mendenhall Glacier (no big deal, right?) and then tasted some Alaskan beers. I didn't want to say anything, but living in Seattle means you can get these beers at the local gas station but, not everywhere. So, for the girls, it was a first.

The college boy taking this picture decided to get artsy...rule of thirds, I like it!

Multiple photo ops here.

Aunt Bear + glacier = totally normal

Danny, Ruthie and I had a little excursion in Scagway. We took a train up a mountain to the White Pass...we ended up in Canada. I know, why go there, right? Don't worry, as soon as you pass the line to get in there, the people get lame and the jokes get lamer.*

ahhhh, Canada? Whyyyyy???

This was why mommy was making the same face shown above...scary heights. Why would anyone WANT to get a train this high?

Entering Canada, notice, fun people on the left, lame people on the right.

Ruthie had a blast as well. She did so many fun things - she went on a sea plane, fed reindeer, walked through a rain forest, took a train up a mountain. Her favorite thing? Blue (or as she calls it "Bwlu") Nana brought this toy for her to play with on the boat. She learned a few colors (not making this up here,) she now knows "lellello" (yellow,) "oooonge" (orange,) "gweeee," (green,) and of course "Bwlu." (hence the name of the toy) I can't promise how generalizable her colors are, but she knows them with this sorter!

She also swam, until they found out she wasn't potty trained. Makes sense, due to diseases, contained boat, yada yada, but she had so much fun until they stopped her!

I dunno about this here new policy, people

All in all, we had a wonderful trip with family, she got to know Bear, Kristin (now known as Ti Ti or Tin Tin depending on mood,) Nana and Dadaw. Plus we saw WHALES...comeon people, BREACHING, HUMPBACK, WHALES...A HUMPBACK CALF WAS INVOLVED. Jaci's.dreamland. Ruthie's, too - due to the fact that she was spoiled rotten.

Just looking at glaciers at 16.5 months. She's well traveled.

TI TI!

See the ice chunks behind here? From the glacier...no big deal

*Please note, not all Canadians are lame...just most. Okay, they probably all are. I would like to quote uncle David "Canadians are ridiculous, I mean, they aren't real people."**
**Please note, making fun of Canadians is fun, if offended, please turn the other cheek. Let's be honest, I'm a Hoosier, make fun of me, I can take it.

Happy Birthday Papa!

2011-06-15T16:15:00.000-07:00

Today is Papa's birthday! (Yes, we HAVE caught up!) And, Ruthie is SOOOOOO excited...well, let's be honest, ANYTHING that has to do with Papa is exciting, right?
Ruthie is such a Papa's girl, much to Mimi's dismay, and being his daughter, I can personally attest to his amazing-ness. From the day I was born, he's always been there to pick up any broken pieces in my life, whether small, or life threatening big. He has been there for Danny and I in the best of times and the worst of times. He is someone I can always depend on. Anytime I am with my dad, I will always feel that sense of security I've known since I was a child...everything is okay because dad is here. I know it is something any daughter feels who has a great father, and I know that it will never fade with time. I hope he knows how much he means to us, and if it weren't for him, Danny and I wouldn't be where we are.
Often times my mom points out how I married a man very similar to my dad...usually these conversations have to do with small annoyances ;), but what she doesn't know is that it is so reassuring to hear that Danny is like dad.
Papa has the biggest heart, is so transparent and sacrificial, and loves my mom, his children and grandchildren more than his own life. We love you, Papa. I hope you always know that, and Ruthie can't WAIT to see you again. Trust me, "Papa" is mentioned multiple times a day.

At the end of this one, she is asking for Veggie Tales...or in her language "Pee-ta" while dancing. Maybe she secretly wants to read The Hunger Games? (Two points to anyone who gets that reference.)

She is saying "Papa" at the beginning of this one, and then I am trying to get her to answer "Papa" here, but she knows her mama loves her :)

Here is Ruthie trying to pick out Papa's gift!

So, I'm going to do it...I'm going to get Papa a ROCK...for his birthday

I don't know, I'm freaking out! I can't do it! I have to go into that water??!!

Okay! Here goes!

Ohmigoodnessthesoundiscold!

Are you SEEING what I'm doing for you, Papa? This is hard work...I must love you!

I DO! I DO love Papa! Happy birthday, Papa!

Here are some pictures of Papa with Ruthie!

And some more videos:

Please ignore the insinuation of me feeding my daughter poptarts in this one...I would NEVER...(cough cough)

We love you, Papa!

Happy Birthday Aunt Oofu

2011-06-14T19:53:00.000-07:00

Aunt Oofu's birthday was on June 7th. ~~She is now 36 years old!~~ I have no idea how old she is...

Okay, everyone...I have a secret to tell you...


Lemme look around to make sure nobody is going to hear...

Aunt Oofu is another year older! Ahhhhhh...

Lemme give you a kiss, Oofu - for your birthday! I love you!


"If you think I'm cute, you should see My Aunt!" (so true, especially since she has my new little cousin in her tummy.)

I'm practicing being a great big cousin for baby girl Folz by reading to this doll baby.

And even if she looks like this monkey...

I'll still love her! (good thing you make cute kids, though...makes it easier.)


But all babies have cute feet...even if they sweat like Oofu's (thank's for that trait, by the way!)

We love you, Oofu!

Happy belated Birthday to Izzy Catherine

2011-06-11T15:16:00.000-07:00

We are a little late on cousin Izzy's birthday post...(May 13th,) but it isn't late for no reason! Ruthie has been working and choreographing her own little ditty for her! So, without further adieu...

Okay, everyone...sit over there.

I SAID over there...

Okay, Imsoexcited! Here it goes.

I love you, my Izzy-boo (kick ball chain)

She holds my heart like glue (lean to right, lean to left.)

She is cute, as cute as can be...(I think I'm supposed to bend down here...)
(Ohhhhh, grasssssss...oh yes, yes, back to my ditty)Won't you come and visit me! Yaaaaaa!

Here is a picture of the two of us from our visit..isn't she just the best? And growing too old...STOP DOING THAT!

We love you Izzy!

Happy (belated) Birthday, Frauntie!

2011-06-03T15:23:00.000-07:00

It may be a few days/weeks late, but we still need to do Frauntie's birthday post! Her birthday was May 8th, and if anybody knows Frauntie, they know her birthday (and the days surrounding it) are a sanctioned holiday. We wish we could have been there to give her smooches (Ruthie, not me.)

Well, hello Frauntie. Happy belated birthday. We got you a diamond necklace!

What?! No diamond necklace? Okay, we'll wing it.

Did I say "diamond necklace?"...ummm...lemme look here...

What I meant was..."a flower from our rhododendron bush!" Yea, that's the ticket!(Psssst, how's this one, mommy?)

Oh golly, sorry it's not somethin' more.

How 'bout I do this happy dance with it?!

I hope you like it, because I love you!

Happy (belated) birthday, Frauntie. I wish our computer worked on the actual day of your birthday, but alas. Better late than never! We love and miss you!

School of Ruthie

2011-05-27T15:05:00.000-07:00

Ruthie has been up to so much, and while we still have some posts to catch up on (Izzy and Frauntie's birthday, mother's day, etc,) I thought I'd share some (okay, lots of) videos to capture our little sponge. So, bear with me with all these videos, but it's a better view than me just explaining her cuteness...
She learns something new everyday! Just today, she looked at the sun lotion sitting on the counter, asked for "Mo?" and started rubbing her hands together. I told her, "You're putting lotion on? Rub some on your face," and she started rubbing her face. Wish I could get everything on camera, but she really hates performing in front of my phone...So, here's what we have so far:

Itsy Bitsy Spider, her new favorite tune...

Here's our smartie pants...she's been going to school. Next on the list: Mandarin and Calculus

Cleaning...don't put it past a Freeman mom to teach her 16 month old how to clean. How young is too young for Pledge? (kidding, kidding...ish ;) )

Note in the following videos her favorite toy, the Melissa and Doug purse...she's such a diva. And her favorite is a coin purse...uhhhh, I taught her nothing! And, no, she does NOT like shopping already...or does she?

Help, please! She now how this one down...

She knows her own name!

Counting! She can only get to one, and recently she goes "onnnneeeee, tree!" As in, "One, three!"

This age is so fun. Everyday she wakes up knowing something new. In fact, she keeps herself awake practicing. All I hear upstairs is, "onnnnneeeeee, tree!" and then lots of giggles. (It sounds cute...until day three of no naps.)

Indiana, my Indiana

2011-05-21T15:21:00.000-07:00

During the Monsoon season of Indiana (betcha didn't know they had one...nor did we, but it was there this year,) Ruthie, Punkers and I visited family. Counting on the warm spring days of my childhood, we showed up to what seemed like Seattle on crack...rain, rain and more rain. But, that's okay, because we live in Seattle and can deal with it! Regardless, we had a wonderful time visiting Dadaw, Nana, Mimi, Papa, Aunt Oofu, Uncle Eric and cousins Will, Madde and Izzy.

This rocker was Dadaw's when he was a tiny tot...Ruthie felt like such a big girl in it!

We had a sick day while at Mimi and Papa's, but that didn't stop her from playing! Ruthie LOVED playing house with Mimi.

We did get a few pretty days, and with one of those days, we went to Mesker Park Zoo.

Ohhhhh, scary fishies...

Papa was set on getting a picture with the giraffe...this is Papa thinking he was the giraffe whisperer getting the little guy to come closer.

Some Mimi love

I LOVE Indiana!

HAPPY (belated) BIRTHDAY NANA!

2011-05-20T13:39:00.000-07:00

Nana's birthday was April 30th, and we were in town to see her on her special day! Ruthie took lots of pictures letting her know how she feels

Happy Birthday, Nana!

I put together a little diddy for you...ah, shucks...it's nothin'

ONE, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight...kick ball chain...

Left leg out, left leg in...
Oh noooo! I fell! It's ruined!

Oh well! What really matters is that I love my Nana!

HAPPY (BELATED) BIRTHDAY NANA!

He is Risen 2011

2011-05-19T21:05:00.000-07:00

We have a little catching up to do...apologies on the lateness. Good news, though, our computer is back up and running!

Easter went great this year. A friend of mine from high school (go MDS wildcats) came into town and we spent Easter together. We went to church and brunch. Needless to say, Ruthie loved Tash and her husband, Ryan, and we loved having them here!

Remember last year?

Well, here is our little peanut, 12 months older!

So much has changed...especially the fact that this year she gets to EAT the candy!

She only got to eat the candy AFTER she found the eggs, of course

After lots of thought, Ruthie decided she loves Easter!

More important than eggs, candy, and toys, though, is the fact that He, indeed, is Risen!

Update

2011-05-06T13:02:00.000-07:00

We haven't posted in awhile due to the fact that I hoard pictures...there, I said it. Danny is okay with this obsession. In fact, he enables me. However, the consequences have caught up to me, and we need a bigger hard drive (yes, we have an external one, but we want all our pictures to be accessible and I don't trust websites to hold on to them.) So, I have tons of pictures on my camera waiting to be uploaded. We just returned from visiting family in Indiana, and now that we are back, I will take care of the issue on hand. So, be patient, as I'm sure you are all waiting on pins and needles.

When we return, here are things you can look forward to:
Nana's birthday was April 30th, so we need a birthday post!
Frauntie's birthday is May 8th, and so we need a birthday post (don't worry, Frauntie, you will not be forgotten!)
Cousin Izzy's birthday is May 13th, so again, another birthday post for my sweet little girl.
We love these ladies, and need to celebrate their birth!
Also, we have tons of pictures from Indiana, can't wait to post those!
So, until I can make it to the Mac store (Apple stores don't handle this, lame,) here are a few videos from my phone to get you through, au revoir!

Trying to put her own pants on:

At the zoo with Mimi and Papa:

Giving Papa kisses:

At Nana and Dadaw's (excuse my talking. I am making a video for Daddy):

Little Toesies

2011-04-20T13:51:00.000-07:00

If any of you knew me as a child...or even know me now, you know that I am very particular and sensitive with my feet. I'd go with socks at all times if I could (assuming the line of the sock is lined up just so,) and let's be honest, I live in the Pacific Northwest - socks and sandals are IN! Good thing my mom taught me better than that. My mom always joked/wished/prayed that my child would be just the same.

This past weekend we went to the park to try to get a few videos of Ruthie walking. I tried to put shoes on her without socks. My little missy FLIPPED out and wouldn't walk. So, I took her shoes off, she felt the grass with her little toesies, and FLIPPED out some more. So much for walking footage. Looks like that's a gene that passes down the line. Hopefully, I don't pass down some of my other ~~obsessive~~ completely rational idiosyncrasies...Thankfully, we still captured some pretty cute pictures of my little (highly particular) ladybug.

Okay, I'm going to give this barefoot thing a try...

Yea...no

The walking didn't take place, but luckily, there are ALWAYS rocks to throw.


Carry me, dad...I'm not ABOUT to walk around in these shoes without socks.

Having a deep conversation about what happens to rocks once we throw them in the Sound. It's a life lesson, right dad?

More life lessons.

Ruthie Walks!

2011-04-17T21:45:00.000-07:00

Daddy is at it again! Here is a video to display our little Ruthie and her walking antics. (I love how much thought and love he puts into every bit. Even how the words line up with what she is doing.) He's awesome. So is this video.

Photo Shoot Friday

2011-04-15T15:54:00.000-07:00

Photo shoot Friday! Ruthie's personality is very vibrant and spirited, and is getting more so by the day. She's a ham, she's a dancer, when she's happy, she's HAPPY, and when she's mad, you'd think she was 17. It is hard to express this over pictures, but we will try.

Hi, I'm Ruthie!

Today, after a Mom's group, we went to the grocery. Her sippy cups are getting to be a bit...dicey, so we picked up a new one. I let her pick one out, and she has since walked around with it like it is a new toy - even cried when we had to scan it to buy it and looked for it as soon as she woke up.

Chillin' with my new sippy

Eventually, she moved on...to dangerous things.

Getting into trouble, ballet style.

All I said to her was, "Ruthie, no thank you," softly. These are the responses we deal with lately

Life is tough

Don't worry, she gets over it easily. A hug and a kiss is all she needs. She's like her mama and Auntie Oofu

Life is good.

Photo Shoot Friday

2011-04-08T16:08:00.000-07:00

It's finally a pretty day here, and so I decided to take Ruthie to the park, set her down and see what happens.

She loved it.

I don't know about this, mom.

And then she discovered the MAGIC of wood chips.

This is VERY important. I MUST find the perfect place for it.

Over this way!

Is THIS the perfect place? No

Let's put it here. No, a little to the left.

How does it look there?

It'll do

Whew, this is a tough job

This is SUCH a fun stage. For instance, I just had to stop typing because I had the cutest little girl toddle up to me with a book saying, "booooo?" (that's Ruthie for book.) She wanted me to read it to her.

Trickster

2011-04-06T20:12:00.000-07:00

Besides randomly deciding to walk for mobility (instead of fun,) 3 weeks after her first steps - last Thursday, to be exact...don't ask, the day worked for her schedule - Ruthie is learning more new tricks!

This video proves that we are training her well - despite living in Seattle!

This next one she learned months ago, but it is still her favorite game - plus, this is with the lovie her aunt Caca made her!

Lincoln Park - Ruthie's choice

2011-04-03T20:45:00.000-07:00

As per usual, Family Moore (sans Pumpkin due to a recent bath) went on a little walk at Lincoln park, filled with Ruthie's first choice - rock-throwing.

Followed by Ruthie's second choice - some old fashioned playground time.

Ahhhhhhh, so exciting!

Camano Island

2011-03-27T17:36:00.000-07:00

We decided to throw caution to the wind today, not stress over naps and take a day trip to Camano Island. It was a chilly, rainy day...as Danny calls, "par for the course." Ruthie's favorite thing on the ENTIRE island? Picking up rocks, handing them to Daddy and watching Daddy throw them into the water. Good times...

Here Daddy!

Rock throwing, my favorite!

Hand holding picture

What Ruthie does all day long...hand us things. Even if we can't see what it is. In this case? A piece of sand.

Had to get a picture of the Frankenstein walk before she grows out of it!


Had to put this picture in...it shows all her hair!

After throwing caution to the wind, you wanna know what happened? She took a wonderful afternoon nap - first time all week! (She has a cold.) She showed me!

Happy Birthday Will!

2011-03-26T20:24:00.000-07:00

Thursday was my lil' biddy nephew, Will's...TENTH birthday? Wait, WHAT?! What happened to my little prince? Well, in honor of his birthday, I have been trying all week to get Ruthie to give the PERFECT message. And, we finally did it!

Happy Birthday, Will. We love you so much, even though your 10 year old self is probably more embarrassed than appreciative of that being public. But, we do!

Photoshoot Friday - a new look

2011-03-25T17:09:00.000-07:00

We did it! We finally get to meet...


PIGTAIL RUTHIE!!!

Personally, I think it is still in the "goofy stage." And, I would like to see it with bigger bows...but I tried that. I only had matching bows of the large bows, not the small ones...and that led Aunt Caca to have a "bow intervention." Hey, big bows are cute!

But, even goofy, it's pretty cute.

Bear, how do you feel about my new look?

A look at the back

I love it!

Photo Shoot...Monday

2011-03-14T14:45:00.000-07:00

It's an unexpectedly beautiful day in Seattle, so Ruthie and I decided to go out for a walk! Oh yea, we forgot to tell you, she took her first steps the other day, and slowly but surely, she is on the move. We have an official toddler!

Sweet face

Rock climber! Baby style!

Wait, even when I look on this side, I see the same feet!

Her favorite thing...playing in the muddy grass.

Love her smile

Here is a video of her toddling. Shortly after that, she walked across the room! Mind you, she had only taken 4 steps before today, tops! Exciting!

Fail us Not

2011-03-08T11:26:00.000-08:00

I don't usually write serious things on here, but today I cannot get around it. If you haven't read the Husmann's story, please do, and please pray fervently for them.
I can't seem to stop reading and read reading Lisa's last post - not for any other reason than - I don't know what to do for them, I don't know how to pray for them. All I can do is literally cry out for the Lord for them, and I have and I will continue to do so.
Reading the comments, one woman said that the phrase "God doesn't give us anything we cannot handle," is completely false. I had never thought of it before - and I completely agree. There are PLENTY of things in this world we cannot handle. Wives and husbands can't handle infidelity, we can't handle eating disorders, we can't handle anxiety, we can't handle depression, and mom's shouldn't have to handle the sickness or death of their child. We weren't created to handle this. We were created for paradise, we were created to worship and trust our Lord, and the truth is: sin has entered the world. Because of sin, we live in a fallen world, and so infidelity occurs, mental disorders are rampant, sickness occurs, and deaths happen, not for any other reason than - this is a fallen world. It is not how the Lord wants it. Because of it, we hurt, we are broken, and we are lost.
But, here is the thing: we have the Gospel, we have Christ. And this not only gives us eternal life, but it gives us a marriage, an intimate relationship with someone who IS strong enough to handle these things. It's a relationship, so when these things happen, we cry out, we get angry, we battle, and we draw close to His loving arms - this brings us intimacy with Him, and in the end, He is always good. Always. There are plenty of times God allows things we aren't strong enough for, but He is, and though we might not see it at the time, He will NEVER fail us.

Stepping it up at Lincoln Park

2011-03-06T17:40:00.000-08:00

We go to Lincoln Park quite often - always have, and as long as we live here, always will. So, I had the crazy idea that she should take her first steps there! So we tried (key word, there)...and let's just say, they looked sweet doing it! I love daddy and daughter pictures!

In case we forget her name, we always write it on her hiney.

So cute. Even those random people seem to think so!

I love pictures of hand holding!

You still there, mommy?

Friends Forever

2011-03-06T12:55:00.000-08:00

The quality isn't great, but here is such a sweet video Danny made of Ruthie and Pumpkin's long and complicated friendship. I love my family. And I love they they love each other.

Photo Shoot Friday - Happy Birthday Daddy Danny!

2011-03-04T20:55:00.000-08:00

Daddy Danny's birthday was on Tuesday, and since we all had a busy week, we didn't get to celebrate until tonight. But, we all had fun celebrating and eating cake (especially our little Ruthie.) We love birthdays in our house, so we had fun preparing for the celebration. Remember last year? Compare that to this year! This Photo Shoot Friday happens to be the pictures I took to decorate for his "party." Side Note: I learned something today - it is much easier to take pictures of a 1 month old next to a piece of paper than a 13 month old. Put that in your back pocket. Due to this, my pictures were less than stellar. So, I decided to perk them up by using Picnik. Sorry if they are cheesy, but man that's a fun website!

It might be fuzzy, but it is the only picture I got of her actually holding up the sign.

It's my daddy's birthday! I'm so excited!

See right there? It says "happy birthday daddy!" Oh wait, no that's a rose.

Happy Birthday Daddy! I can't quit reading it...and eating the paper.

Yummy cake and macaroons from Bakery Nouveau. We are so incredibly thankful this place is so close to us.

We love our Daddy Danny, and are so blessed to have him in our lives. He is a magnificent daddy (nightly dance parties with Ruthie and all!) And, I learned Ruthie loves her daddy, because if I mention him she says, "Dada? Dada?" and frantically looks at the door - followed by whines if he is not present. Sheesh, if that isn't love, what is? We love you!

Photo Shoot Friday

2011-02-25T16:11:00.000-08:00

It's Photo Shoot Friday!

My favorite picture of the day

Smiley girl

Sweetest feet on the block

She knows a good author when she sees it! Mommy's favorite, Mo Willems!

And now, for the finished products of our Valentine's Day art-a-pa-looza! Guess which one is Mommy and Ruthie's and which one is Daddy's and Ruthie's*...

All up and ready!

If you ask me, it also reflects our personalities...

*The flower picture is Mommy and Ruthie's the abstract is the work of Daddy and Ruthie.

Please Pray

2011-02-22T21:08:00.000-08:00

Our friends Josh and Lisa Husmann are welcoming their little guy tomorrow, February 23, 2011 at 4pm EST. Please pray for baby Jaxton and his family. Look on the right for a link to more information about the lil' guy. The Husmann's are a precious family, with an amazing and admiral heart for the Lord. Their family glows with the light and Grace of our Lord.
We love you guys!

Photo Shoot Friday

2011-02-18T16:30:00.000-08:00

Everyday, I notice more and more how little Ruthie is a toddler (sans "toddling.) Today's Photo Shoot Friday will illustrate.

No, No...I do it myself!

Sweetly looking for the dog to chase...

I pick out my own books, please!

Here mom! I found something I'm sure you don't want me chewing on!

The look I see most often...Ms. Mischievous

But all in all, she's still our sweet and fun little girl. I mean, COMEON, look at the adorable profile!

These toddler years are going to be fun! This is the "independence day" year, so Dr. Franklin tells us. Little does he know, she's been independent since the beginning, so we're good. Nothing new here! Just a fun little Miss!