Stein Family

1st Date

2011-07-25T15:27:00.000-07:00

Matthew borrowed his friend's car and found himself a date!

Matthew and Cora
Such a gentleman, he made her get out and push!

Looks like Matthew has more game than Jonathan. This was Jonathan's 1st date! He may have started younger, but at least Matthew's date was a real girl :)

Woodward Park

2011-07-24T16:57:00.000-07:00

Still squeezing the most out of the summer, Chris and Clara went to Woodward Park today with the Coulter's to do some bike riding.

Clara took along Jonathan's bike since it's breaks are way better!
Ready to go!

Clara and Belle

Chris, Belle and Hunter

Chris and Clara. Clara's still getting used to the hills :)

Time to cool off!

All the water around here is from melted snow running off of the mountains...so it's rarely warm.

As you can see, that didn't stop them!

Clara

Craziness!

Chris

The Coulter's

Chris and Clara

Jonathan is currently working on starting his bike on his own. Once he gets started, he can ride just fine, but he doesn't quite believe in himself enough just yet to get started on his own. Hopefully, he'll get that down soon. In addition, rumor is that Santa Claus may bring me a bike and Matthew a bike seat so we can all tag along next time. I can't wait!

Montana de Oro

2011-07-23T23:51:00.000-07:00

Not much of the Summer left, so we decided to take a trip to the coast with some of our neighbors. We went to Montana de Oro so the kids could play in the tide pools and the water.

Beautiful!
Clara, Mikaela and Izabella
Searching the tide pools for anemones and starfish
Chris was carrying Matthew all over with him, up and down the rocks. I was so nervous they were going to fall!

They didn't fall, but Matthew enjoyed the salty water!

A crab hiding in the rocks

I finally got Matthew with me on stable ground, so I could breathe!

Once I put him down, he was content just moving the rocks from one side of himself to the other.

Thankfully there wasn't a shortage of rocks, so it kept him busy for a while.

Clara. Jonathan, and Matthew

Chris and Hunter

They found a sea urchin!

Sea Urchin

Going exploring

Chris, Mikaela and Izabella -- Watch out for that wave!

The kids decided to make a dam in the river that was running down into the ocean.

Jonathan

Piling on the big rocks

Jonathan and Dylan filling in the holes with little pebbles and mud

Belle and Chris helping

Hunter, Clara and Jonathan

Clara

They never fully stopped the flow of water, but they slowed it enough that the water found another route around the dam.

Matthew wanted to get in the water so badly, but it was very cold (not that you can tell by looking at the other kids!)

He finally made his way into the water!

The view from up on the mountain

So pretty, so powerful!

This was the way up and down the mountain. As you can see, the drop off is nearly up to Chris' shoulder, and he's 6'2", so it was roughly 5ft off the ground. I needed his help to get up, and again when I came down. Only, my descent wasn't as graceful as Becca's is here. I slid on my bottom from about where Matt is standing up top to where Chris caught me there on the bottom. If not for Chris standing there to catch me, we would have likely been searching for the nearest hospital!

We had a great time. I love that we live so close to beautiful things and that we have awesome friends to take these day trips with. It all makes living in Lemoore more than bearable!

Peach Picking

2011-07-16T13:38:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again, so we loaded the kids up and called Grandpa John to see if wanted to join us. Who could say no to fresh peaches?!

The kids are working hard!
We had to walk through the plums to get to the peaches. They said that if we were selective, we'd be able to find a few good plums. It took a while, but I found a delicious one. We each got a bite, but by the time it got to Matthew, he wasn't sharing. He got the rest of the plum all to himself!

Plums

Yum!

Praying Mantis we found on a peach

The variety of peaches were 'flame peaches' and they were absolutely delicious!

The inside was just as red as the outside, which made for a funny looking peach cobbler later, but it was still yummy!

Peach fuzz

I think Matthew ate about 5 peaches in addition to that plum he hoarded.

I love how he was holding onto the peaches with 2 hands!

Wasting no time!

Clara doesn't get into the eating part as much, but she loves to pick.

The kids got a ride back as well. We had to pick up a second wagon just for them, because our first one was full of peaches. I forgot to take a picture of our loot, but we had enough to share with all of our neighbors when we got back!

Silly Thoughts

2011-07-14T12:56:00.000-07:00

Once in a conversation about personal responsibility, Chris explained to the kids that we all have jobs, even if we don't go to work. Matthew's job is to grow big. Clara's job is to do well in school and be an example to her brothers. Jonathan's job entails him to listen to his parents and to be silly. (He seems to take the latter task more seriously!)

With kindergarten right around the corner for Jonathan, we have started to prepare him for his 'promotion' to his new job - to do well in school. As a result, there's been a lot of talk about 'jobs' around the house.

The other day Jonathan said to me:

J: "Do you know why I'm so good at being silly?"

Me: "Why?"

J: "Because God made me silly. Do you know why?"

Me: Why?

J: "Because God likes to laugh."

I have often thought that God has a sense of humor, like when He waits until I'm 32 and on my 3rd child to bless me with a child as busy as Matthew, for whom there is no 'baby proofing'. I often tell Chris that people are looking at us with Matthew now and saying, "See, that's why we stopped at 2 kids!" Yes, I truly believe God likes to laugh. Maybe Jonathan's onto something here!

Sleepyheads

2011-07-12T17:25:00.000-07:00

When swim team was still going, I would leave the boys home with a sitter so they wouldn't be up too late on meet nights. When we'd get home I couldn't resist going in to check on them. I'm not that mom who checks on her kids before she goes off to bed herself. I value sleep too much to risk waking them up as I come in to kiss them goodnight, but when I'm not around to tuck them in, I can't help myself!

You'd never believe the hurricane this child is when he's awake!
Silence is golden (and still gripping the Spiderman web in his hand!)

Goodnight boys.
I am forever grateful and proud to be your mom.

Swim Team Picture

2011-07-12T12:37:00.000-07:00

The swim season wrapped up while we were on vacation. Clara improved so much over the summer and had a blast while doing it. We're looking forward to next summer. Maybe by then I can convince Jonathan to give it a try as well!

Here's Clara's team picture:

Still Alive!

2011-07-11T17:14:00.000-07:00

Surprisingly enough, our garden is still alive and there was a lot to pick upon returning from vacation!

Unfortunately, Matthew got a little overzealous when it came to picking and plucked off our 2 peppers before their time. We haven't had much luck with the cucumbers either. They all taste a little off and since they are never dark green, we've had a difficult time deciding when they should be picked. They taste bad whether they're big or small.

The tomatoes, however, are the best I've ever tasted. So sweet and juicy, I could eat them like grapes!

Cow Appreciation Day '11

2011-07-11T15:18:00.000-07:00

I was so excited this year that Chris was actually home to participate in Cow Appreciation Day. Unfortunately, it fell on July 8th this year, which happened to be the day we drove home from our vacation at Disney. I wasn't going to little thing like that interfere with the opportunity to share with Chris the types of embarrassing things I get roped into for our kids (and FREE Chick-fil-A, of course!) We dressed in white and I brought along lots of sticky black felt to stick on us as we drove from the hotel to CFA, before getting on the road. As I stuck Chris' spots on him, he proceeded to tell me how he wasn't doing it, and would rather pay for his meal...

My only regret is that this is the only picture I got of Chris 'paying' for his meal. Matthew, on the other hand, was REALLY not in the mood!
My favorite cows!

Just ready to be home :)

Moo!

The only thing better than Chick-fil-A is free Chick-fil-A!

Leaving Disneyland

2011-07-10T21:03:00.000-07:00

Before leaving Disney, we took Jonathan to pick out his souvenir/birthday present at Ridemakerz.

He thought about making a Tow Mater...

and a Retro McQueen

He decided on a 'Shiny Fast Lightning McQueen'. Then he got to pick out tires...

...and rims.

Time to build!

Putting on the tires.

He even got a voice box!

Time to go for a drive!

Jonathan's custom ride

Then, unfortunately, it was time to say goodbye to Teagan.

Hugs from Clara

Kisses from Uncle Chris

One last kiss for Jonathan.

We had a great vacation! It was so good to see Teagan and all her family again. I can't wait until the next time we can all get together for a new adventure!

Disney Parade

2011-07-10T20:48:00.000-07:00

After a long day of fun, we settled in to watch the parade down Main Street

Can you tell Jonathan was excited?!

Mickey and Minnie

Pluto, Goofy, and Chip 'n' Dale

The Genie

Ariel and Sebastian

The Princesses

Cinderella and Belle

Lion King

Simba

Teagan was intrigued!

Tiana

Clara and Jonathan were captivated as well!

The Chimney Sweeps

Mary Poppins

The kids loved the parade. It was a great way for them to see all their favorite characters (and we didn't even have to wait in line!)

Disneyland '11

2011-07-10T20:24:00.000-07:00

Disneyland! We made it!

Chris and I with the kids just outside Disneyland.
Crystal and her family

The kids in front of Sleeping Beauty's castle

First thing we did after breakfast is go wait in line to meet the princesses

Clara and Ariel

Teagan and Ariel

Jonathan with Ariel
Chris and Matthew with Ariel

Teagan and Belle

Clara and Belle

Jonathan and Belle

Matthew with Belle

Clara and Pocahontas

Jonathan and Pocahontas

Breaking out of the Dog Pound!

Driving through Toon Town

Cruisin'

Clara and Jonathan on Minnie's Couch

Checking out Minnie's Makeup Table

Chris, Matthew and Clara on the Jungle Cruise

Elephant

Watch out for that Hippo!

Jonathan and I on the Jungle Cruise

More elephants playing!

Chris and Matthew

Getting ready for the Pooh ride

Tigger and Pooh

Family pic in front of Sleeping Beauty's castle

Jonathan on the carousel

Clara on the carousel

Matthew's getting tired

Chris and Matthew on the Dumbo ride

Ready for the fireworks

The castle at night

Pixie Hollow

This way to the fairies...

Clara and Rosetta

Jonathan and Rosetta

Clara meeting Tinkerbell

Jonathan and Tinkerbell

Chris and Jonathan in Tomorrowland

Clara unfortunately had to do a lot of rides on her own since Matthew was too small for many and Jonathan was too young to go alone. She was really brave and did great. Hopefully, she didn't feel too left out!

She got a little scared on this one. The seat was so long, giving her lots of sliding room...but she stayed calm and did great!

Waiting in line to see more princesses...this is what Matthew (and Chris) thought of that idea.

He cheered up when he found a familiar face though.

By the time we got to front of the line, Mulan was the only 'new princess'. We missed Tiana and Jasmine by just a few minutes!

He was a trooper!

Matthew meeting Ariel again.

Clara and Jonathan with Belle again.

Princess Clara

Geppeto and Pinocchio

We happened to walk past Rapunzel's castle once when the line wasn't so long, so we jumped right in. When we were 2nd in line, we were informed that Rapunzel had gone to join in the parade. Thankfully, it wasn't long until she was back!

Jonathan and Rapunzel

Clara and Jonathan with Rapunzel

Clara and Rapunzel

Chris and Matthew with Rapunzel

Teagan and Rapunzel

Mr. Toad's Wild Ride

Posing for a pic in the tree house.

Character Breakfast

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

We started our first morning at Disney with a character breakfast. We figured it would be a relaxing way for the kids to meet some of their favorite characters, but with 4 kids at our table and so many characters to meet, breakfast was less than relaxing!

Matthew and Max
Jonathan and Max

Dale proposing to Clara

Clara and Dale

Jonathan and Brer Fox

Matthew and Brer Fox

Clara and Brer Fox

Brer Fox sneaking up on Teagan

Minnie and Teagan

Peekaboo with Matthew

Minnie's got your nose!

Two can play that game!

Jonathan and Eeyore

Teagan and Eeyore

Clara and Eeyore

Kisses for Eeyore

Matthew and Eeyore

Chris wanted his picture with Eeyore just to show his Aunt Sandi, who is Eeyore's biggest fan!

Tigger playing with Clara's hat

Teagan and Tigger

I think Tigger's in love!

Big hugs for Tigger

Matthew was just interested in eating at this point!

Captain Hook trying to recruit a new pirate...

He can be VERY persuasive!

Captain Hook found some jewels.

Clara and Captain Hook

Hook isn't impressed!

Watch out Chris, Hook has his eye on your fair maiden!

Crystal and Teagan with Hook

Not a fan of screaming 2 yr olds! (That's how I look by the end of most days.)

Crystal and Teagan with EJ Penguin

EJ Penguin and Jonathan

We thought EJ Penguin was just a penguin from 'Happy Feet'...he was kind enough to humor us!

Got your nose!

Jonathan and Rafiki

Clara and Rafiki

Rafiki and Teagan

Jonathan and Minnie (one of my favorite pics!)

Teagan and Minnie

Jonathan and Chip

Clara and Chip

Teagan and Chip

The Fairy Godmother

Jonathan and Fairy Godmother

Clara and Fairy Godmother

Teagan and Fairy Godmother

Breakfast was great! We got a ton of pics and autographs as you can see. The kids LOVED it! It's so awesome to see the magic of Disney in their eyes!

Grandchildren

2011-07-09T23:14:00.000-07:00

Last year when Crystal and Teagan came to visit, we had portraits taken. These 4 kids are all the grandchildren my parents have and since none of us live near my parents, it's not often they get to see the kids. Likewise, it's not often that the kids are all together, so we attempted to get another group shot...easier said than done when Matthew is a part of the 'group'!

This was definitely the best shot.

3 cooperating, Matthew was just happy to be freed from the stroller!

Once again, Matthew's doing his own thing!

Teagan thought her cousin was pretty hilarious!

Just the girls.

Almost got it!

Well, we tried!

CA Adventure Park

2011-07-09T19:55:00.000-07:00

Finally! We made it to Anaheim. We drove down on the 4th. The kids were so excited to finally get to Disney, and excited to hopefully catch the firework show from the balcony of our hotel!

Letting the 'crazies' out after a long road trip!

Matthew was excited to see Teagan again...and even more excited to finally be out of his car seat. They didn't catch too much of the fireworks. We had to get them off to bed so they could get some good sleep before we headed to CA Adventure Park int he morning!

Clara's #1 memory from our last trip to CA Adventure Park 2 years ago was the Monster's Inc ride. It's all she talked about. She couldn't wait to go on it again, so we had to hit it up 1st!

Sulley

Mike

Which one's your door?

Posing in a Monstropolis Taxi

Scary Monsters!

Then we went to see the Disney Playhouse Live

My main men

My beautiful niece

She had so much fun participating! I'm not sure Matthew even understood he was supposed to...Hard to believe they're only a month apart in age!

Handy Manny

The tools

Little Einsteins

The extent of Matthew's participation, clapping along. Honestly, we were just happy he wasn't running all around!

Jake and the Neverland Pirates

Clara looking through her telescope

Matthew found treasure falling from the ceiling!

"If you have ears, say 'cheers!' "

Clara and Max

Not sure which one's Goofy :)

Matthew wasn't sure what to think of Goofy and Max

Bumper cars in Bug's Land

Vroom!

Teagan and I waiting in line

Clara, Jonathan and Crystal in the Bug Land's version of the Teacups!

Cooling off in the water

Matthew was happy to be free!

Pluto, Crystal and Teagan

Jonathan (Soggy Doggy) and Pluto

Clara and Pluto

Matthew and I with Pluto

A highlight for Jonathan, meeting Mater and Lightning McQueen

Ka-Chow!

Clara and Crystal on the Little Mermaid ride

Chris and Matthew

Ariel and Flounder

'Under the Sea'

Ursula

'Go on and Kiss the Girl'

Catch of the day (Look closely to find Jonathan)

Teagan found Mickey!!!!!!

M-I-C-K-E-Y M-O-U-S-E

Awesome family pic!

Heading to the Ferris Wheel

Jonathan, Matthew, Tina and I opted for the Ferris Wheel cars for chickens. It was so nice to feel the breeze when we got up high. Everyone else opted for the scary cars that slid and pivoted...Clara didn't find the ride so relaxing!

Crystal and Teagan with Buzz Lightyear

To Infinity...and Beyond!

My favorite action figure family!

Look at those muscles!

Clara and Crystal swinging around

Chris and Jonathan

Chris was excite dto finally have someone go on ride with him, since he married a big chicken!

Jellyfish Jumping

Clara and Matt

Jonathan's face is priceless!

Jump!

All worn out...about Midday...

Matthew didn't get the memo that kids can sleep in strollers.

Finally free! Running around the tree house

Matthew was not a fan of the theme parks, because the crowds meant he was confined to the stroller. He's not a 'sit still and stay with mom' kind of kid. I wasn't taking any chances with letting him loose. Three days of stroller confinement didn't make him happy, so moments like this when we found an area to safely set him free were priceless!

Jonathan wasn't sure what to think of this 'zipline'! He was debating up to the last minute while we were in line whether or not he was going to try it.

Clara loved it!

One of my scariest moments...I sent the kids up some stairs to come down a slide, where I was waiting at the bottom with Matthew. There only should have been a split second they would be out of my sight. Little did I know, it was possible to take a wrong turn in that split second. I kept waiting, and waiting. Then started to panic and look around for them, only to find them at the other side of the tree house, walking across these ropes, trying to stay calm and find a way down to me...When I got them back by my side, we left the tree house. I was not doing that again!

This was on our last day, of 3. Teagan was pooped, and snuggled up with Uncle Chris!

Since it was our last day, we were going around both parks, ridding all our favorite rides one last time!

Beetle Bumpers again! Clara was excited that she's old/tall enough to do a lot of rides on her own. I felt bad that she was often on her own, as I stayed back with Matthew, or Chris and I accompanied Jonathan and Matthew...a drawback to parents being outnumbered by their kids :)

Chris and Jonathan

Ferris Wheel at night

Watching the 'World of Color' laser light show

The firework finale

We left the park so hungry. There's an IHOP right across the street and it sounded delicious. Teagan and Matthew were in rare for that night though. I think they were getting their second wind!

Matthew always finds himself amusing...

This night Teagan found him amusing, too. Try telling a Stein boy to stop doing something when the pretty girl next to him thinks it's funny...nevermind that they're cousins!

Blowing kisses

So precious!

We had a great time. I took so many pics (obviously). The kids had a blast. We loved seeing the smiles on their faces, and loved that we got to do this trip with Teagan and Crystal and her family. Next time we're waiting until Matthew (and Teagan) are old enough to really enjoy it as well!

Days til Disney

2011-07-02T22:26:00.000-07:00

The kids have been getting REALLY excited about our trip to Disneyland this summer. I was getting so tired of answering numerous daily question about 'how long' and 'when', so I made this chart...

We've been counting down for the past couple weeks...

We leave tomorrow!!!!!

Teagan's Visit

2011-07-01T18:01:00.000-07:00

Look who came to visit us again!

Crystal and Teagan came back down for a visit, and this time they brought the rest of Crystal's family. We had the privilege of meeting her parents, Tina and Rod, and her brother Matt.

Teagan and getting so big! She's so smart and so polite. Her mommy is definitely doing a great job (I was hoping some of it would rub off on Matthew!)

Playing trucks in the driveway

A juicy peach for a snack

She loved Clemson, and I think he appreciated having a little kid who was gentle for a change!

A great summer snack!

Chris took the kids and Crystal's family to the pool one afternoon

Look at Teagan swimming!

Kick, kick, kick!

Teagan getting a ride on her Uncle Matt's back

We discovered that Teagan REALLY likes sweet pickles, but only if she was allowed to pick her own out! We decided to see what she thought of dill pickles...

She obviously didn't seem to mind!

She's so BEAUTIFUL!

We had just a short visit here, but we'll see them in just a few more days...

at DISNEYLAND!!!!!!!

Swim Lessons

2011-06-30T17:10:00.000-07:00

Jonathan just wrapped up his second session of swim lessons. He did great once again, although it may be hard to see in this set of pictures. I don't know if it was for my benefit, if he was having a bad day, or if maybe he was not feeling 100%, but you would have thought that we were torturing him by putting him in the pool theses past 2 days!

Right from the start, he was fussing. Thankfully, he was at least still doing what was asked of him.

Back Float

Kicking on his Back

The first couple jumps were really rough. He kept complaining that Mrs. Mary was too far away. After a few jumps though, he was back to his jolly self...just in time for the end of class!

SPLASH!

Swimming with his face in the water

His Favorite - Jumping off the diving board

and swimming to the wall!

Day 2 - same whiny behavior accompanied us to swim lessons!

Funny thing, when you jump in the water whining, you're more likely to swallow too much water!

Mrs. Mary was so patient with him!

I was so frustrated. After listening to him laugh for the last 2 weeks, only to go in to watch and see him be so fussy! I was so disappointed.

It's rough being 4 year old!

Watermelon

2011-06-26T19:51:00.000-07:00

Matthew has discovered watermelon!

He pretends to eat the rind, at which point Chris yells, 'Don't eat the green!' He seems to think that little game is hilarious!

Don't Eat the Green!

Eventually he really eats the watermelon. I think he had 6 pieces tonight before we cut him off. Can't wait for that diaper tomorrow!

Sleeping Bag Snuggling

2011-06-26T09:46:00.000-07:00

This is how I found the kids this morning:

Snuggling up in Jonathan's sleeping bag

Watching TV

I'm gonna have to get a bigger sleeping bag for them once Matthew sees this!

Shell Beach and Avila Beach

2011-06-25T21:50:00.000-07:00

We've been dying to get to the coast this summer, but travelling the 2 hours to the coast with little kids sometimes seems a bit daunting. This weekend our neighbors were headed to the beach, so at the last minute we decided to tag a long.

We'd heard a lot about Shell Beach, so we went in search of it. I think we found it, but it was hard to say, and while it was beautiful, it wasn't quite what we had in mind.

Jonathan explored the 'cave' made by the rocks on the shoreline.

Beautiful!

The beaches here are beautiful, but rather than fulfilling my beach fix, they make me miss the East Coast more.

Carrie and Belle helping with my kids (as usual!)

Chris found a crab and brought it over in his pocket.

Matthew loves the beach!

Looking in the tide pools for anemones and starfish.

Matthew wanted to climb on some rocks, too.

An attempt at a family picture

The best one

Just Jonathan and I

Jonathan, Clara, and I

Matthew was not into sitting still, but then, he never is!

He didn't seem to mind that the water was cold, we couldn't keep him out of it.

Jonathan

Jonathan and Clara

After Shell Beach, we headed just up the street to Avila beach where Matthew gave us some lessons on skim boarding.

Once again we couldn't keep him away from the water. His shorts and jacket were soaked and no longer doing much to keep him warm, so we took them off. Since our decision to go to the beach was last minute, we had forgotten to pack a change of clothes for everyone. In my defense, I didn't think we'd be getting in the water, the Pacific Ocean is always cold!

Once again, water temperature wasn't an issue!

Belle and her friend Maddie helped Clara and Jonathan make a sandcastle.

Clara and Belle

Maddie and Jonathan

Since Matthew had taught Chris how to skim board so well, he thought he'd give it a try!

After just a few tries, he got it...then decided to quit while he was ahead :)

Matthew fell while running from a wave

Clara and Jonathan had fun 'wave surfing'

It was great watching them play.

We finally had to pull them out of the water when their skin was red for being in the cold water. (Check out Jonathan's hands and feet!)

Hard to tell, but the kids and Chris gave Clara a mermaid tail.

She has legs!

We had a great time at the coast today. Thanks to the Coulters for letting us tag along. Can't wait to go back!

What's Wrong With this Picture?

2011-06-24T13:40:00.000-07:00

Do you see it?

How about now?

This is what happens when a 4yr old boy changes clothes in the living room. I have yet to understand how/why Jonathan's clothes never end up in one pile when he takes them off. It makes for a lot of time spent looking for shoes later. I guess I should simply be glad he doesn't have a ceiling fan in his room!

Selma Swim Meet

2011-06-23T23:27:00.000-07:00

Clara had another swim meet tonight in Selma. She swam her personal best tonight!

Ready to swim 25M Freestyle

Diving in!

Go Clara!

Getting out after her swim.

Once again, she swam freestyle and backstroke. Her time was 42.22sec for freestyle (shaving 8.84sec off her time) and 44.29sec for backstroke (shaving 6.16sec off her time). She did fantastic. I love watching her improve!

Garden Update

2011-06-21T12:15:00.000-07:00

Surprisingly enough, we haven't killed the garden yet!

Cherry tomatoes

Roma cherry tomatoes

Bell Pepper

Blueberries

The cucumbers are taking over the garden!

Today's loot!

Clara assumes everything will be sour since we're growing it ourselves.

Luckily for Jonathan, that means he gets to eat most of it!

Jonathan's 1st Dental Visit

2011-06-19T12:36:00.000-07:00

I finally got around to taking Jonathan to the dentist for the first time. I know I'm way behind on this, but I have been debating for a long time whether to take him to the general dentist that Clara and I go to, or to a Pediatric Dentist, which would mean a 45 min trip to get there. I finally decided to make the 45min trek to Fresno to see Dr. Powell, and I'm so glad I did. In fact, I'll be switching Clara over to his office for her next appointment as well!

All ready to start. He was excited they knew he was coming and had written his name on his bib!

First, they needed some x-rays!

Finishing up with a polish

Fluoride time!

Clara and Matthew got to play in the playhouse in the waiting room while we waited for Jonathan to be done.

Jonathan did great! He sat nice and still, had no cavities and can't wait to go back. When he was done, they gave him a balloon, a book and a bag full of dental goodies! This dentist reminded me of the one I used to go to as a child and is exactly what I've been looking for. He spoke to Jonathan, not over him to me. He addressed both Jonathan and I before even attempting to take a look in his mouth, and took a few minutes for goofy chit chat before going on with the exam. I will gladly make the trek every 6 months to ensure that my children's experience with the dentist is a positive one.

Cat Cuddling

2011-06-19T11:08:00.000-07:00

I found Matthew loving on Penelope this morning...

Too Cute!

How Sweet!

Mason's Birthday Party

2011-06-18T19:43:00.000-07:00

One of our neighbors threw a birthday party for her son, Mason, and invited us for a fun day of burgers and water fun! The kids had a blast!

Carson and Clara

Matthew stealing Cheetos

Jonathan and Clara eating cupcakes

Matthew's love affair with Caprisuns continues!

Jonathan on the water slide

Splash!

Whoa!

Clara's turn!

Whoa!

Splash!

Matthew wasn't interested in the water slide. He was perfectly content stomping in the runoff on the sidewalk.

...and slapping his hands in it.

He was having so much fun he drew a crowd!

Mason's mom could've saved some money on that water slide :)

Clara, Matthew, and Mason (the birthday boy!)

Matthew decided the runoff water was even good enough to drink!

Once again, he made it look so good that Clara and Mason gave it a try!

Yum!

Brianna, Tommy and Belle on the slide

Logan, Belle, and Brianna

Thanks for letting us help you celebrate today Mason. We had a great time!

Happy Birthday!

Matthew's Swim Lessons

2011-06-17T17:33:00.000-07:00

Here's Matthew's first shot at swimming!

With his teacher, Ms. Jacie.

Underwater!

Not a big fan of being dunked

How's the water taste?

Swimming back to the steps

Kick, kick!

Walking his hands down the wall

Ready to 'jump' from the diving board

Here he goes...

Swimming to the wall

Walking his hands back down to the other end of the pool

Sitting on the steps with Jonathan

Swimming to the wall (Love that face!)

Cutie!

...and he knows it!

Jonathan's Swim Lessons

2011-06-17T17:03:00.000-07:00

The boys have been taking swim lessons in the afternoon for the past 2 weeks. I was finally able to go in and see their progress the last 2 days. They're doing great!

Swimming underwater...big kicks!

Back float

Jumping from the side

More big kicks!

Another jump from the side

Getting ready to jump from the diving board!

Here he goes...

Swimming to the wall

He made it!

Great Job Jonathan!

Corcoran Swim Meet

2011-06-16T23:49:00.000-07:00

After the boys' swim lessons, I had to rush them home for the sitter and get Clara to he swim meet in Corcoran. She swam 8 and under freestyle and backstroke.

On the block, ready to swim freestyle.

There she goes!

Check out that form :)

Go Clara!

Her time was 51.06sec

After her swim, rushing to get her towel.

Waiting for her next event

When did she get so big?!

Uncrustables for dinner!

Jumping in the water before swimming backstroke

Go Clara!
Her time for 25M Backstroke was 50.45 seconds.

Clara did great! Her times are about twice the time for qualifying, but she's working hard and has shown so much improvement. Most of all she's having fun and staying active. I'm so proud of her!

Too Quiet

2011-06-12T12:47:00.000-07:00

You know most days it's not a good thing to get out of the shower to hear silence when you're mother of 3 small children...

I walked past this recliner twice (from the back) and didn't know they were there. Just as I began to panic that they had gone outside while I was in the shower, I heard Clara sigh, then noticed Jonathan's feet sticking out.

Today, silence was a great surprise!

Feeding Boogie

2011-06-10T17:35:00.000-07:00

Matthew loves Clemson, our dog. Over the years, Clemson's name has evolved to where we now call him Kimmie most of the time. It throws people off, but he answers to it, and it seems to fit better than 'Clemson'. In an effort to say 'Kimmie', Matthew has once again renamed our dog, 'Boogie'. Often times the 1st words out of Matthew's mouth in the morning as we pick him up out of his crib are, "Boogie, Go, Now!" (He means 'come', but he hasn't quite figured out how to train his mouth as well as he has trained the dog!)

...and here's why 'Boogie' puts up with it all!

Sleepy Bear

2011-06-07T23:29:00.000-07:00

We left Matthew home with a sitter while we went to Clara's swim meet, knowing it wouldn't be any fun for him. Of course I had to go in and check on him when I got home.

Thankfully he didn't stir at all when I was taking his picture. He looked so adorable, I was willing to risk waking him with the flash (plus then I'd be able to pick him up and snuggle him!)

So cute!

Sweet Dreams, Matthew!

NAS Lemoore Heat

2011-06-07T23:13:00.000-07:00

Today was Clara's 1st swim meet. I took videos of her swimming, but can't get them to upload, so here's just the pics I got.

Lined up for her 1st event

Her number and initials on her shoulder

Getting ready to swim

Great Job, Go Clara!

Happy 13th Anniversary!

2011-06-05T23:53:00.000-07:00

Today is our 13th wedding anniversary...13 years since our journey began, Wow!

We didn't have a baby sitter tonight, so no special date, but it was still a wonderful day. Our neighbor even brought us dessert, just for 2!

'Happy A (anniverary), From B (Becca)'

So thoughtful and yummy!...and no, we didn't share with the kids!

Clara Bear

2011-06-04T19:49:00.000-07:00

Just a cute picture of my favorite little girl!

Award Ceremony

2011-06-01T17:42:00.000-07:00

Today we went to Clara's school for the Award Ceremony. I had received an email from her teacher last week, encouraging me to be there because Clara was to receive an award, so I made sure Chris had the morning off from work as well.

Clara waiting to receive her award with her classmates

Mrs. Cope spoke highly of all her students

Clara received a Good Citizenship Award for always helping her teacher and her friends

...and a Top Scholar Award for working hard and excelling at all she does!

...and a Perfect Attendance Award for not missing a single day all year!

The Award Ceremony was bittersweet for our family, because while we are so proud of Clara and all her accomplishments, we also learned that her teacher, Mrs. Cope, is retiring. I feel blessed and fortunate that Clara was able to have her this year. My neighbor's son had her 2 years ago for 1st grade as well, and it was rumored that she was to retire after that school year. I'm not sure what postponed her retirement, but I really can't help but think it was a blessing. Clara excelled in kindergarten as well, but the environment was no where near as positive as the one Mrs. Cope created. By the end of last school year, I spoke with Clara's pediatrician about my concern that she may be depressed. I often feel that Clara takes the weight of the world on her shoulders, that she doesn't believe in herself as others do, and that she always strives to be something more, when in actuality, what she already is, is more than enough. A few months into this school year I tearfully spoke to Mrs. Cope about the difference she made, not just in Clara, but in our family. She lifted Clara up, made her believe in herself and helped her find her voice, as she did for each and every one of her students. For that, I am forever grateful.

I know Clara will always excel in her education. She has a quick mind, she's eager to learn, and she just gets it. It comes easy to her. For Clara, the challenge will be to take the time to be a kid, to make mistakes and know that she will still be loved. To know that sometimes it's OK to step outside of what's expected, and just be silly, be yourself. I know Mrs. Cope has only laid the groundwork, and our parenting is the strongest support system, but thankfully, the foundation she laid is strong!

Clara cried, as did I, upon hearing of Mrs. Cope's retirement. For the last week, every time Clara told Chris and I how much she was going to miss Mrs. Cope, we told her she'd be able to stop by Mrs. Cope's classroom next year to say 'hi'. Today, there was nothing we could do but hug her. I hugged Mrs Cope too, and selfishly told her she was supposed to stick around until Jonathan was in the 1st grade! She promised me this was not goodbye for us. I hope so. Clara came home from school almost in tears once again.

We are so proud of Clara and all her accomplishments. As she received her 3rd award, you could hear whispers from the other children, "Whoa, another one?!" She was the only kid of all the 1st and 2nd grade classes to receive all 3 awards. She is an amazing child, taught by an amazing teacher. I hope Mrs. Cope realizes the difference she made.

Happy Memorial Day!

2011-05-30T13:59:00.000-07:00

Puppy Love

2011-05-29T17:52:00.000-07:00

Drying off after playing in the pool!

I love this little hurricane of a boy!

...and he knows it!

Just add Ketchup

2011-05-28T13:34:00.000-07:00

Did I mention Matthew really loves to dip his food?!

I mean, really...

Sometimes, he actually dips his food and not just his fingers!

Who wouldn't love that face?!

I saw his hands going toward his hair and made the mistake of saying, "No!"...

...should've known better!

Just add ketchup!

Happy Birthday, Grandpa John!

2011-05-27T21:04:00.000-07:00

In addition to Friday being Jonathan's preschool graduation, it was also Grandpa John's birthday! Chris called Uncle Larry to see if they had plans and they invited us to join them and some of their closest friends for dinner in celebration of John's birthday!

Clara, Aunt Sandi, Uncle Larry and Grandpa John

Uncle Larry, Grandpa John, Chuck and Aunt Mary (we were pleasantly surprised to see that Aunt Mary made the drive up from San Diego!)

It's great to see Grandpa John has so many friends to share his special day with!

Gift time!

Uncle Larry's fancy wrapping job!

A personalized bible...

...and a cover for it.

'If you're old and you know it, crick your knees...'

'Is it hot in here?...Or is it you?' The fan spun around when you opened the card :)

Matthew loves to dip his food...and his fingers!

Yum!

Cake Time!

Happy Birthday, Grandpa John!!!!

Carrot Cake!

Uncle Larry and Aunt Sandi pass out the cake

'Yep, my tongue's still there!'

Happy Birthday, Grandpa John! Thank you for letting us celebrate with you!

No, Matthew!!!!!!!!!!!!

2011-05-27T14:06:00.000-07:00

This is what happens when you tell Matthew, 'No!'

First, he sticks out his bottom lip...

...then the hands go up...

...He peaks through to make sure you're paying attention...

How Pitiful!

'Are you getting this?'

I'm not sure whose heart is more broken when I say, "No!"

Preschool Graduation

2011-05-27T13:58:00.000-07:00

Today was Jonathan's Preschool graduation.

Getting ready for the festivities to start.

With his 'cap' on!

Receiving his 'diploma'

Preschool graduate

Ready for Kindergarten!

Never too big for a picture with Momma!

Jonathan has grown so much over the last year. I can't wait to continue to watch him grow next year in kindergarten, but I hope he never forgets the little boy he is now!

Congratulations, Jonathan! We Love You!

Matthew Singing

2011-05-25T19:40:00.000-07:00

Matthew's new favorite past time...

'Singing'!

Tooth Fairy

2011-05-20T20:12:00.000-07:00

Clara lost her 7th tooth on Easter...I guess in all the Easter festivities, the Tooth Fairy forgot/was too busy to come that night, so she came the next night instead. There have been lots of theories floating around here as to why it took the Tooth Fairy an extra night...maybe she had to help out the Easter Bunny, maybe she was celebrating Easter with her family, maybe she was on vacation...who knows?!

Clara lost her 8th tooth today at school. Tonight she placed it under her pillow, with this note:

Leave it to Clara to hold the Tooth Fairy accountable!

Swim Team

2011-05-20T19:44:00.000-07:00

Clara has a new summer activity: Swim Team!

She has really been enjoying practice for the past few weeks, and has already improved her stroke!

Warm-up Stretches

Jumping Jacks, too. (Yes, swimmers need to wear their goggles even for warm-up activities on land!)

There she is swimming!

Jonathan watches comfortably from the side of the pool.

Practice is over!

She has practice every evening and swim meets will start in a couple weeks on Thursdays. The base swim team is only in it's second year, so there's a lot of kinks still being worked out, but it's a great experience for Clara. She absolutely loves it!

Open House

2011-05-19T21:27:00.000-07:00

Tonight was Open House at Clara's school, so she got to show us around her classroom.

Mrs. Cope had a wonderful set up to show off the students' work, and even some stations where the families were able to make something too, like this butterfly project.

Jonathan decided to give it a try

He had to trace a template of a butterfly, cut it out, fold it in half, decorate one side with paint, then press the 2 sides together again.

The example Clara had made in class earlier!

Ant Farm

Clara's self-portrait

Jonathan looking through bug eyes!

Clara even got a chance to show us some of her computer work!

Then she showed us how to draw on the computer...

A Lightning McQueen for Jonathan!

Chris and I both have volunteered in Clara's class throughout the year, so much of the work was stuff we'd seen before, but Clara really enjoyed showing us around her space. Jonathan was extremely excited to go see it all. Mrs. Cope has been a wonderful teacher throughout the year. She truly has been a perfect fit for Clara. I only wish Clara could continue to be in her class!

Go-Kart Racing

2011-05-01T18:19:00.000-07:00

Chris wanted to take the kids go-kart racing today. Not really my idea of fun, but the kids love it, so Matthew and I just hung out and took some pics

Growing Crystals

2011-04-30T16:03:00.000-07:00

What better way to spend a lazy Saturday morning than growing crystals with the kids!

First we colored the water with red, blue and yellow bath tablets and mixed the colors to make more colors.

Then each of the kids got to take turns putting in the little rocks that came with the kit.

We had to let them soak for a while so they would 'grow'

Ta-da!

The little rocks grew into those gel 'crystals' like you see in candles or artificial flower arrangements.

The kids were more impressed by the tie-dye pattern left on the paper plate and paper towel by the crystals as they dried!

Clara actually taped the paper towel up on her bedroom door, which you know kills me every time I walked down the hall. I have a feeling it may disappear after a couple days!

We'll have to find a recipe for rock candy. I think they may more impressed by crystals that taste good...and then there won't be anything to hang up!

Lovin' Penelope

2011-04-25T10:17:00.000-07:00

It may look like he's torturing her, but he's really just trying to hold her still so he can kiss her nose!

And a hug!

I think she's still trying to figure out if she should run away!

Easter Festivities

2011-04-24T22:41:00.000-07:00

This year, our neighbor's across the street hosted Easter Dinner. We moved the kids egg hunt to the evening, right before dinner. I was finishing up some cooking, so I sent Chris out with the camera to take pictures of the egg hunt.

Jonathan

Matthew

He wanted to open each one as he found it, and had no desire to look for more once he had one!

Clara

The Bearcat Kids

We have a small tradition, called 'Mystery Egg'. When making deviled eggs, you put some hot sauce under the yolk. No one knows which one is the 'mystery Egg' until someone bites into it! Belle wanted to get the mystery egg, and she did!

Yum!

Her dad, Matt, finished it for her.

He obviously didn't mind the hot sauce!

Matthew got to jump on the trampoline with Mrs. Carrie and some of the other kids!

Matthew and Hunter

No idea who thought it was a good idea to give him a cake pop on the trampoline, but he seems to like it!

We did a confetti egg fight again this year, but I was having camera issues (my SD card was full, and by the time I switched it out, the battle was over). Belle had planned to get Chris back for last year, when he smashed an egg on her head, but I kinda stole her thunder when I saw an opportunity to get him (sorry Belle).

Bearcat girls

Easter Baskets

2011-04-24T10:31:00.000-07:00

The kids' Easter baskets

Jonathan's

Matthew's

Clara's

The 2 older kids got up very early, and didn't wake Chris and I up, so we didn't get to see them unpack their baskets. They had gone through Matthew's to see what the Easter Bunny had brought him, but put it back together for Matthew to unpack again on his own.

Matthew had fun taking everything out of his basket...

...everything...

...but, once unpacked, he didn't care to play with it all!

Dying Easter Eggs

2011-04-23T15:24:00.000-07:00

We're in charge of deviled eggs this year at our neighbor's Easter get-together, so what better time to to dye eggs!

Jonathan helped, but somehow I neglected to get a picture of him!

Everyone got an egg with their name on it!

Our finished product!

I didn't buy a kit, just used food coloring...Next year, I'm getting a kit!

Book Buddies

2011-04-23T12:27:00.000-07:00

It's almost like they like each other!

Clara loves helping teach Jonathan to read...she'll make a great teacher someday!

Easter Pics

2011-04-20T16:36:00.000-07:00

We took the kids to get their picture with the Easter Bunny. Seems like every year the holiday 'character' pics get more expensive, and the quality gets worse, but at least we had it done!

Jonathan's preschool had a photographer come in with real bunnies, and since Matthew was with me dropping Jonathan off at school, they told me to throw him in there too...obviously, I hadn't planned for it, or he'd have shoes on!

The Zoo

2011-04-20T15:56:00.000-07:00

The kids are out of school for spring break, so we took a trip to the zoo!

Orangutan

Giraffes

I let the kids go in the petting zoo. I don't let them do that too much anymore, so it was Matthew's first time in there since he was old enough to walk around on his own. I thought Jonathan was fearless at this age in terms of animals, but he was nothing compared to Matthew. Matthew wanted to kiss the goats, but the problem is that he doesn't like to kiss animals anywhere, but on the nose. If the goats wouldn't look at him, he'd grab them by the horns to turn their head...I just about had a heart attack!

Jonathan brushing a goat

Jonathan and Matthew being nice to the goat!

Petting the goat

Clara and her favorite goat (because it was laying in the trough).

Clara and Jonathan with the goat

Look! I'm in a picture!

Clemson

2011-04-18T21:32:00.000-07:00

Somebody sent me this video online. Everytime I watch it, Clemson watches it with me!

Monster Trucks

2011-04-16T20:43:00.000-07:00

Chris decided to take Clara and Jonathan to see Monster trucks today...

Can you tell Jonathan was excited this morning?!

They swung by and picked up Grandpa John on the way!

We were a little worried about it being too loud (our kids don't deal with loud noises well), but Chris said they did great!

El Toro Loco

Grave Digger and El Toro Loco

El Toro Loco

Grave Digger

Grave Digger doing a wheelie

Chris was excited that they were going to the last show of the weekend. He said typically the drivers will run their trucks into the ground on the last day, since they don't have to worry about doing another show the next day...Looks like Grave Digger was happy to oblige!

The kids had fun, especially Jonathan. He said his favorite truck was Grave Digger!

Gardening

2011-04-16T17:05:00.000-07:00

Between the vegetables Clara has been bringing home from the school garden and the oak tree Jonathan brought home, I figured the kids would enjoy having our own garden. So I convinced Chris to build a garden for our backyard.

We went to Lowes to get the supplies, then I went grocery shopping and left Chris to do the hard work!

Good thing he had Matthew to help!

He had to go get more dirt to fill it up, then we planted together.

2 Strawberry plants, 4 cucumbers, 1 orange pepper, 1 yellow pepper, 2 types of cherry tomatoes and 1 blueberry plant

Now it's just a waiting game!

One strawberry to start!

Maybe I'll share!

Mighty Oak

2011-04-15T12:53:00.000-07:00

Jonathan found an acorn that was sprouting at school today, so his teachers let him bring it home.

He asked if we could grow it into a tree...with my gardening skills, it's highly unlikely, but we'll give it a try!

I gave him a pot to plant it in...

and made him do all the work.

Doesn't look so mighty now, does it?!

Mileage Run

2011-04-14T17:39:00.000-07:00

After school today, the boys and I went to Clara's school to do the mileage run with her. Her school does a 1 mile run once a month after school as a way to help keep the kids active. We haven't made it to any yet with her, because they're always scheduled for right after school, which is the boys' naptime. Today, we ran errands after Jonathan got out of school, so the boys were still up, and since summer is near, we won't have too many other opportunities.

Clara was not expecting us, so she was extra excited to see us!

Stretching before the run

Touch your toes!

And the race is on! Jonathan was excited to walk with Clara's friends!

They stayed together and talked the whole way!

Getting their charms at the finish line!

The kids at home with their charms!

Jonathan's Easter Party

2011-04-14T14:26:00.000-07:00

Today was Jonathan's Easter Party at school. As usual, Matthew and I went to join in the festivities.

Jonathan got to hunt for Easter eggs in the park...

His favorite one, a Spiderman egg!

He even found the Easter Bunny!!!

Snack time!

Yum!

Matthew loves cookies!

Cupcakes, too!

Cheese!!!

Jonathan and I

Two Chocolate Faces!

We took just a few minutes to play.

This is about where he said, "Mom, stop taking pictures of me!"

Oh well!

What's Up Doc?

2011-04-13T20:21:00.000-07:00

Clara got to go to the garden at school today and pick another vegetable...

This time, she brought home a carrot!

She washed it and couldn't wait to eat it!

Yum!

She even shared some with Jonathan.

After seeing the kids get so excited about eating vegetables they grew, we might have to start our own garden!

Lemoore Volunteer Fire Department

2011-04-12T17:39:00.000-07:00

Today, Jonathan's preschool went on a field trip to the Lemoore Volunteer Fire Department.

They sent this fire truck to come pick us all up and take us back to the station!

Once back at the station, Fireman Marcus, put on his suit piece by piece, playing 'Am I scary now?"

Matthew and Jonathan watched intently.

This is about when Matthew decided that Fireman Marcus was, in fact, scary. Thankfully, we were not in a real fire, because he surely would've run away from Marcus in that suit!

Jonathan showed everyone how to 'Stop, Drop, and Roll'...did you know you are supposed to cover your face when you do? I didn't know that!

After watching Jonathan, Matthew wanted to show everyone that he knew how to 'Stop, Drop, and Roll' too!

He's got it down perfectly!

Fireman Jonathan

Everyone was watching Fireman Marcus explain what was on the truck and why.

Jonathan even got a chance to get on the truck and check it out!

Mrs. Mary helped him down.

Fireman Lockers

Everyone got a chance to hold the hose.

Whoa! He's a natural!

The whole class

Loading back up to head back to school.

Cheese!

Matthew didn't mind the ride there, but wasn't fond of the ride back at all!

Jonathan in the driver's seat

Being a fireman for the day is really tiring!