The Vivier's

Baby Preston Lee Vivier

2010-07-08T14:24:00.000-07:00

Preston was born on June 16, 2010 at 2:04am. I was 9 days overdue and went in to be induced after my water broke but went into labour myself after waiting 9 hours in triage for a room to open up. I laboured for about 4 1/2hours and then our precious little boy was born. He was 7lbs 14oz and 21 1/4inches long. He has platinum blond hair and dark blue eyes.

He is such a good baby. He likes to sleep all day and then is up at night but we are slowly changing that. The first 2 weeks he had his days and nights confused but he is getting better. Now if I could just get a few hours of uninterupted sleep life would be amazing!

I am having trouble posting pictures but here is one of my new little man. It seems like life with 3 little ones is keeping me off the computer most days but I will post more pictures soon!

Paige is 3

2010-05-26T12:13:00.000-07:00

We had a BBQ this weekend for Paige's Birthday, the weather wasn't as nice as I had hoped but it wasn't too bad.
Paige, Elyse, Brooklyn, Connor, Georgia, Tyler, Coleman and Jett
Gathering all the loot from the pinata

Paige taking a turn at the pinata

Opening her presents.

Paige and I did the new puzzle that Grandma and Grandpa got her and her new umbrella

Paige is such a cutie these days. She is so funny and loves to laugh and smile

We had cake for her on her actual birthday May 19, she was so cute with her presents. Each one she would say "sanks guys, I LOVE IT!!", then she'd ask what it was (like the kite from the Kvellestad's), it was pretty funny. She has such expression and enthusiasm for life.

We had to keep with tradition and go to Chuck E Cheese for lunch. The girls love it there!

This picture is just so Paige. She is such a ham, she loves to make people laugh and will do anything to do it! She is rarely serious and it can be tough but she truly is pretty funny ;)

I love my little girl so much. We love to listen to her cute voice and all her jokes. She is still a Mommy's girl and to "cuddles", she snuggles so close and just loves to sit and be together. Despite that though, she is fiercely independent, everything has to be on her terms and in her own time. She always has a counter-offer when I ask her to do something and she tends to hear what she wants to! There is never a quiet moment with Paige, she loves to chat and is mommy's little shopping buddy when Elyse is at pre-school. Paige is such a special little girl and we love her so much, Happy 3rd Birthday Rager!!

The girls are best of friends, I love to hear them play and pretend. They are doing SOOO well sharing a room. I am so proud of them!

Beautiful weather & 37 Weeks!

2010-05-17T14:41:00.001-07:00

This was Mother's day. I love my girls so much and I am so fortunate to have such a wonderful family. I am 37 weeks today, 3 weeks to go!! I am feeling pretty good, a bit tired and a bit overwhelmed at points, but I think that it normal :) I can't believe that we are going to be adding a baby to this already chaotic mix but I can't wait to meet this new little person. I am feeling like it is a boy these days but who knows, I really am just hoping for a healthy, happy baby who likes to sleep :)
The weather on the weekend was so nice! We spent the day at Confederation park enjoying the weather. The girls are getting so big and love riding their bikes. Paige is a natural and needs a bigger bike, she can pedal way too fast for this little trike.

We sat out and kicked the soccer ball around. Paige has some natural athletic talent but has to do everything on her own time, in her own way!

Elyse and I and the ever expanding belly!

Soccer

2010-05-17T14:30:00.001-07:00

Elyse is playing soccer this year and loving it!! She is pretty intense and gives it her all, I love watching her. Paige is such a good girl, she sits and cheers for the "Stallions" even though she would love to be out there playing too!
It is so fun that Connor and Brooklyn are playing on the same team too.

Elyse, Connor and Brooklyn.

Swimming Lessons

2010-05-17T14:26:00.000-07:00

Elyse loved swimming lessons, she is a little fish and loves the water. I think I'll sign both the girls up again since Paige is almost old enough for unparented lessons too.
We were so proud to see Elyse jump off the diving board on the last day of class.

New Room for the girls

2010-05-17T09:59:00.000-07:00

This was Elyse's room before.
Elyse hard at work helping us paint the room.

Paige and Elyse loved to help get the room ready.

The girls thought it was pretty great to have a bed in the living room to hang out on. It was pretty cute to see them cuddle on it with their dollies.

And the finished product.....

I love their new room, it is tight but the girls have done so well so far. Paige loves having a big girl bed and Elyse has been great about sharing her space. I am really happy at the way it all turned out, the pink and brown is cute and girly but not too kidish.

Elyse is 5!!

2010-04-20T20:00:00.000-07:00

Elyse turned 5 last week and we celebrated in style. On Tuesday, just Elyse and I went to the doctor and then out for lunch and then shopping where she got to pick out this new dress she is wearing (she LOVES dresses and thinks it is such a treat to wear them). Then for her birthday she was the special girl at pre-school and then we went to Chuck E Cheese for lunch. Elyse loves it there!
Then it was dinner at our house with Grandma, Grandpa, Uncle Dave and the Kvellestad's.

Elyse was thrilled with her "big girl bike". It was a really fun gift to give and she was so excited.

Taking it for a spin down the hall.

The next day we tried it outside. Elyse did great but she forgot how to stop and got scared and grabbed the fence to stop herself and fell off her bike. Those are the pitfalls when learning how to ride a bike :)

Paige did great on her bike, she finally was using the pedals, she always has insisted on scooting along with her feet.

To keep the festivities going we had a bowling party on Sunday for her friends. This is Olivia, Elyse and Brooklyn.

The whole gang! Olivia, Hannah,Elyse, Brooklyn, Paige, Connor, Coleman, Tyler and Jett. We rented out 3 of 4 lanes at the community center and it worked out great. It was alot of fun.

My big girl. I am so proud of the little lady Elyse has become. She is so smart and has such good manners and a fun personality. She is so helpful and is really determined and motivated. I can't believe she is 5 already, I love her so much and hope she always stays this amazing! Love you babe, Happy Birthday!!

Science Center

2010-04-20T19:55:00.000-07:00

Our own little rock band!! The kids were really into it and Paige just wanted to be the dancer, it was so cute!!

Easter

2010-04-20T19:48:00.001-07:00

We went to a community Easter Egg hunt and the girls loved it. We walked to Grandma and Grandpa's after, they were so cute with their baskets.

Easter morning. The girls were really excited this year about Easter, they loved finding all the eggs the Easter Bunny left for them!

They of course enjoyed being able to eat chocolate and candy for breakfast.

Ready for Easter Dinner at Grandma and Grandpa's. We had a really fun long weekend and ended it with a yummy turkey dinner!

Birthday weekend

2010-03-23T13:45:00.000-07:00

I thought that since I just turned 33 - yikes! I would put some picture of my super fun birthday weekend on here. Chris and I went out for dinner and movie on Friday and then to Cheesecake after the movie for dessert, it was such a nice night! I haven't been out past 9:00 on a Friday night forever, there are actually a lot of people out and about :) I have to thank Mom and Dad for taking the girls for a sleepover and letting us have a great night and a morning to sleep in!
Ready for our date - almost 29 weeks pregnant.
I had a baby shower to go on to Saturday.

On Sunday we had a costume birthday party to go. The girls were thrilled to dress up. I was less thrilled but I went as Princess Leia and Chris went as Superman.

Monday (my actual birthday) we all had dinner at Mom and Dad's. We all met for breakfast and then Mom watched the girls while I went and had my hair done. What a great day. Thanks everyone for all the well wishes and nice gifts!

Paige and I and my new shades (Paige just broke my Armani ones, I was so sad!)

Our little family. I am truly blessed in my life with my family. I am so lucky to have all of them! My parents and brothers are great. I have an amazing husband that I love dearly and two little precious girls and a baby on the way, who could ask for more. I feel very happy at where I am at at 33 and just hope the future can be as good as my life is now. Love you all and thanks for everything!

Getaway to West Edmonton Mall

2010-03-23T13:19:00.001-07:00

I felt that we needed a night away so we headed up to West Ed. There was a good deal at Fantasyland hotel that included the water park and breakfast the next day. The Kvellestad's decided to join us too. It was a really great break and we had so much fun!
The girls liked to play in the whale.
After the waterpark we went to "Bourbon Street" and had dinner at the Spaghetti Factory. The kids had such a good time at the waterpark. Elyse loved the waterslides but Chris took her on an advanced one and that was bit too scary for her. Paige enjoyed playing in the waves and in the little playpark. The water was fairly warm and the kids didn't want to leave even though we were there ALL afternoon!

The gang. Elyse, Coleman, Paige and Connor. They have so much fun together and they are all getting so big. Elyse seems so old to me lately.

I don't really have any prego pictures so here I am at 28 weeks.

The next day we went to Galaxyland. What a deal, $10.00 for 3 hours for the kids and kids under 3 were free and the adults got to go free with the kids. The kids loved this ride. It was a toned down drop of doom for the kids, they just laughed the whole time. It is hard to tell who is having more fun though, Bruce and Chris or Connor and Elyse :)

The older kids could drive their own go-carts, it was so cute.

Paige was just tall enough for the little bumper cars and thought it was really fun. She just kept turning the steering wheel and going in circles, it was pretty funny to watch!

Paige is such a character. She has attitude to spare, good thing she is such a cutie!

Chris convinced Paige to go on this ride at the end and she liked it too. She is getting so big!

Paige and Elyse still have some good battles but they really love each other and have so much fun together.

GOLD --- YEA CANADA

2010-03-01T12:04:00.001-08:00

What a great Olympics. The men's hockey team won Gold yesterday over the Americans. We had everyone over for a little hockey party, it was really fun, lots of red shirts, good food and a great game! Canada did so well this Olympics with 26 medals and set a new world record for the most gold (14) ever at a Winter Olympics. The question now is what I am going to do with myself, we watched the Olympics pretty much everyday, all events and I really enjoyed it, now I guess I can get back to all the stuff I have been putting off :) The girls loved the spirit of the games and Paige would always say "I am cheering for the red team". Elyse loved the torch and the figure skating and cheering on the teams. It was a really fun 17 days!

Grandma Thelma's 94th Birthday

2010-02-17T12:30:00.001-08:00

After we skated on Family Day we went to Grandma's to celebrate her 94th Birthday. Grandma is truly amazing and inspiration for us all. I really hope I have those good genes and look and feel and act this amazing at 94. Happy Birthday Grandma!!

Fun Weekend!

2010-02-17T12:16:00.000-08:00

We had a really fun weekend. Chris and I managed to see a movie on Valentine's Day and then had a special dinner with the girls. I started doing fondue for V-day when Elyse was little and it is really fun to set the table and have cheese fondue and chocolate fondue and just let the girls go crazy. Elyse won't eat fruit (she is really missing out on the chocolate covered strawberries, those are my absolute FAVORITE!!), so she covered some marshmallows and graham wafers. They also each got a little gift on their plate. Does this look like a happy kid or what!?!??
On Family Day we put on our Canada gear and headed to the Olympic Oval to skate. We are addicted to the Olympics this year. I could watch it all day, I have been watching all sorts of events and it is neat to see. GO CANADA GO!!

Outside the Oval they have the cauldron lit.

Elyse was such a trooper skating, she made it around 3 times by herself! Chris and Elyse got interviewed for CBC about the olympics and they showed Elyse skating around, it was so cute. It made for a really fun day.

Paige is an awesome little skater, she can stand up by herself and she'll march around, she is doing great!!

The Girls

2010-02-17T12:05:00.000-08:00

Elyse LOVES to dress up all the time. The other day she came in the kitchen with this on, I think she was channelling Cindy Lauper! She is such a character and a performer, she always has a dance or song or something she would like to show us. She also loves to "decorate" (put all her jewelery all over the house) and loves to make "set-ups" where she dress all the Polly Pockets in various outfits. Maybe she'll be an interior designer or a fashion designer :) She is really getting big and is such a big help to me (most days!)
Paige is wearing the Norwegian outfit that my Grandparents brought me from Norway when I was little. It is fun to see the Paige in it and we went and got her picture taken. Paige is doing great on the potty, she wears "big-girl" panties all day and has been dry 4 out of 6 nights! I love it, I really only wanted to have the new baby in diapers and now I have my wish, way to go Paige!!!

Olympic fever

2010-01-20T11:02:00.000-08:00

We decided to go yesterday and watch the Olympic torch run by. It was really neat and that fact that it went right through mom's and dad's community was very cool. It went by in a flash but I am glad that we went. GO CANADA GO!!! Elyse and I showing off our new Olympic mitts.

Elyse, Connor and Paige patiently waiting.

Okay so this wasn't an Olympic hockey game but we cheered loudly and proudly anyway! We went to watch Chris and Bruce play in a hockey tournament on the weekend, unfortunately we couldn't cheer them on to a victory.

Go Tiger Sharks!

New Years Fun

2010-01-11T14:56:00.000-08:00

My Ballerina. Elyse LOVES to dance and do her ballet. When mom and I saw these tutu's at Winners I knew that Elyse and Paige would love them, they have barely taken them off since Christmas.
New Years Day at our house. We have always gone bowling and played games on New Years day and this year was no different. Bowling was super fun, the girls really liked it and did quite well at it. Dave brought over his Wii and Elyse beat Chris on the Wii bowling. It is a bit hard to play games with the kids so the Wii is perfect for everyone.

Mom and Dad and Me. I am so lucky to have such amazing parents and the girls are so lucky to have such great grandparents.

The weather FINALLY warmed up this weekend, we had such a miserable cold December with tons of snow! We decided to go to Bowness park to go skating. It is really pretty there and it was so nice to get out!

We were focused on Elyse getting up and skating we turn around and Paige got up herself and started walking towards us. She is a trooper and laughed whenever she fell down. It was a slow start for Elyse but by the end of the weekend she was doing excellent!

After skating we met up with Bruce and Connor at Confederation Park to do some tobogganing.

I was so surprised how brave the kids were, they flew down the hill all by themselves. Paige wasn't really keen on it and preferred to slide down on her bum. On the last run, Connor and Elyse hit a jump and got about 4ft of air, the looks on their face were priceless!! Connor didn't want to go again, he banged his chin and Elyse was mad at me because I didn't "catch" them. All in all though, it was a GREAT day!

My "super" family. I got them all these Superhero shirts for Christmas, it was a gift for Chris too :) Batman he loves(Elyse's shirt), I love Wonderwoman(Paige's shirt) and Chris got Wolverine.

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day 2009

2010-01-11T14:09:00.001-08:00

We spent Christmas Eve with the whole family at Mom and Dad's. It was really nice and of course we enjoyed a wonderful turkey dinner.
Grandpa read The Night Before Christmas to all the kids who seems to really like it.

Elyse with the mountain of presents. It seems like a ton (which is it) but we all bring our presents for each other over to Mom and Dad's to exchange Christmas day.

Paige and Hayley. The girls love the hayl-ster.

New Jammies, ready for Santa to come!

Christmas morning is so magical at this age. I really love it and try to enjoy every minute because the girls are growing up so fast.

The girls were really good at taking turns and being appreciative, even when it was clothes :)

The girls each got a new Princess nightgown, now we just need some nice weather so they wouldn't freeze at night in them.

I was so excited for the girls to open this. This was my dollhouse from when I was a kid. Grandma Thelma and my mom made it for me and I love it so I am hoping the girls have the same love for it.

Round 2 at Grandma and Grandpa's in the afternoon. It was a really nice day and of course everyone got spoiled but we really enjoy that we can spend these special days with our family.

Christmas Festivities

2010-01-11T12:59:00.000-08:00

December is always a busy month but I love the Christmas season and all the fun get-togethers and outings that it involves.
Elyse

Paige

The Kvellestad Family Christmas party at Bruce and Alida's. All the kids, Paige, Elyse, Thompson, Coleman, Connor, Astelle and Andreas enjoying their pizza. It was a fun night.

Elyse and Santa. We are so lucky to have a personal Santa on call for all our parties.

Family Picture.

Paige being her normal little hamball self. She is such a character and is always looking for a laugh!

I got one of my presents early this year, my new bosch mixer. I love it!! I have been making breads and buns and really enjoying it. The girls love to help and even though it takes atleast twice as long with my little helpers they love it. We made lots of cookies this day as well and cinnamon buns!

Paige with Santa at our Christmas party.

Ever since the older kids were little we have had this little party. It is alot of fun and they are getting sooo big. Elyse, Connor, Coleman, Tyler, Jett, Eliseo and Paige. Thanks again to our good friend Santa for making it even more special.

It was so cute to see Elyse is her first Christmas concert at Pre-school. They sang Jingle Bells and We wish you a Merry Christmas and acted out The night Before Christmas. Elyse is standing with her friend Olivia which she has really bonded with over the last few months.

Paige and Elyse have really turned a corner I think. There is alot less fighting and alot more playing together. I LOVE it when I can hear them laughing and pretending and being kind to each other. They really love each other and always tell me that each other is their best friend.

Family of Five!!!

2010-01-11T12:53:00.000-08:00

So as most of you know I am pregnant with our third. I can't believe how fast the time is going. It feels like we just found out but I am already 19 weeks!! I am feeling good and although I know it will be a challenge we are so excited to have a new little baby in the family.

Zoo lights

2009-11-30T14:27:00.001-08:00

I figured since I have been blogging pretty much all afternoon, I may as well get right up to date. So here is what we did last night. We did watch some of the Grey Cup but it was such a mild night that we thought we'd take the girls to Zoo lights. It was really fun! We had a Christmas kind of day yesterday, we went out to Bass Pro shops and saw Santa, made a decoration, decorated a cookie in the mall and then did some shopping it was a really fun day!

This was Paige talking to Santa on the jumbo screen, it was sooo cute, she was chatting away and is pretty funny. She asked for a Polly Pocket (like we don't have enough of those!). She really didn't want to see Santa earlier in the day but then she did and said "Santa is a good guy". Elyse of course had no fear and could not wait to tell Santa she wanted a Princess Barbie Doll (again like we don't have enough Barbies).

We had a really fun weekend. We spent Friday night playing Scrabble with Mom and Dad because the roads were SOOO bad. It took us 2 hours to get from Sunridge mall to my parents and it is normally a 15 min drive! We decided to wait out the traffic with them and it was a really fun night!

Our Cruise - The Carnival Spirit Nov 11 -19

2009-11-30T13:05:00.000-08:00

There are a lot pictures I know, but on an 8 day Mexican Riviera cruise there are a lot of photo ops. We had a good time, it was tiring and a long trip, 12 day in total but we really enjoyed all being together. It was really fun to have Bruce, Alida and the boys as well as Mom and Dave and Crystal and Colin all with us. Unfortunately my Dad couldn't get away from work, we missed him!

The girls were pretty excited about the bunkbeds in our stateroom. Bon Voyage! Leaving San Diego.

Exploring the ship, this was the "jungle".

The girls loved that at dinner, their Peanut Butter and Jelly sandwiches were served with chips and cookies.

Long Day!

Our first day at Sea, it was a bit chilly for the pool but the kids didn't care.

Chris trying out the waterslide.

Playing some mini-golf on the ship. We dropped the kids off at kids club (Camp Carnival) which they loved and it gave us a few hours to enjoy some grown-up time.

The kids loved to have Auntie Crystal and Uncle Colin on the cruise with us, they are so much fun and were so great with the kids, thanks guys, it wouldn't have been the same without you!

Elyse in the dining room on formal night, she loved to get all dressed up. We were lucky the girls for the most part were really good for dinner and it was along time to sit, all those courses took about 2 hours each dinner time!

Sometime though, it would be all too long for Paige, my little thumbsucker.

Lunch time by the pool. It was so fun to grab lunch by the pool and watch the ocean go by. We saw a few dolphins and a whale!

Auntie Crystal was soooo good at keeping Paige entertained at dinner time. It was so fun getting the girls all dressed up each night, it is way more fun that getting yourself ready!

I love this picture of Paige she is getting to be such a kid, she looks so big!

A girl could get used to having dessert served to her each night!

Our first stop was Acapulco. This is a little market we stopped at.

I don't really have any great picture from this stop. It was by far my least favorite and I don't think I would ever go back. It is a huge city over 2 million people, it was dirty and busy and the people were so aggressive. The boys (Chris, Bruce and Colin) went on a 6 hour deep sea fishing trip and we (Alida, Mom, Crystal, Dave and I) decided to take a cab to the beach with the kids. The vendors on the beach would NOT leave us alone, it was literally ever minute that someone was trying to sell you something! The waves were big and the undertow was really strong so the kids could not go near the water as we learn when they all got knocked over as soon as we got on the beach. But at least it was warm - I would say about 34 degrees.

Laura, Crystal and Alida. I think we were all excited to get back on the boat. Oh and as for the boys, they were really bored on their fishing trip and no-one caught a thing!

Next stop Zihuataneio. This was my favorite stop! The beaches were amazing, there were no vendors and the water was calm and warm.

This is Chris and Elyse with our ship in the background.

Crystal and Chris decided to go para sailing to celebrate Chris' 34th birthday, they really enjoyed it. The girls and I got to watch from the boat.

There were lots of cool things on the beach, like the dead blow fish above and the starfish that Daddy caught in his feet. Uncle Bruce had to miss this day because he was quarantined because he was feeling ill. The girls really enjoyed playing in the water here. Paige got so brave and wanted to go in the water all the time as long as you held her the whole time. My girls love the sand and surf.

And finally Manzanillo. This stop was interesting, the closest beach was a 45min taxi ride away. The sand was more like mud, but regardless, the kids still loved to play in it.

The other good thing about this beach was all the shells. It is one of Elyse favorite things to do, look for shells, as you can tell by her collection on her towel.

Back on the boat for dinner. We did anytime dining which was a great option with the kids.

Our last formal night, we managed to have dinner in the dining room each night which was nice, the food was much better there than at the buffet.

This is one of Elyse's new things, she loves to pretend she is a statue. And she is really good at it.

We covered a lot of ground and saw and did a ton this trip. The kids enjoyed the beaches, the kids club was great for the days we were at sea. Of course the staff was great, the girls loved that the "magician" would leave a different towel animal in our room each night. It was nice to enjoy some good weather and spend time with family.

San Diego

2009-11-30T12:52:00.000-08:00

After the cruise, we spent a day in San Diego. I would definitely go back. You have to love the weather there, it is so temperate. We stayed by Mission beach, it is beautiful, there is miles of beach but the water was pretty chilly.
We found this really cool place right on the beach to have lunch. They had these wave machines so people could practice their surfing and tricks, it was really neat to watch. The table were in the sand so the kids good dig and play while we had lunch and watch the surfers. The crazy thing though was the pigeons, they staged an attack on us! One landed right on my plate and then about 10 joined in, we were hitting them and the kids were screaming and it was chaos but the birds would not leave until the server ran over with a spray bottle! If my kids have a fear of birds this will be why :)

What is better than a park on the beach? I would love to live somewhere with a beach and nice weather instead it is snowing like crazy outside as I look out my window now!

Sea World

2009-11-30T12:33:00.001-08:00

On our way to San Diego. Our kids are such good fliers, it helps that they love the cartoons that are on the flights.
Elyse and I in San Diego, having some dinner.

Sea world! We really enjoyed our day here, the weather was perfect and there were so many neat things to see and do.

I love dolphins and these ones were so playful. When I went to take a picture of Elyse, three of them came over to "pose", it was pretty cute. They'd also toss their balls out of the water for people to throw them back to them.

Shamu!! The show was really good, we all really enjoyed it.

The kids loved the rides at the Sesame Street part.

This is the Journey to Atlantis. We are mean parents and convinced Elyse to go on with Chris, it was scarier than we thought it was going to be. That is Chris and Elyse in the very front.

She was proud of herself that she went on it but she did not want to go again. She also got soaked but she was a good sport about it.

Halloween

2009-11-03T19:21:00.000-08:00

Elyse was Snow White this year for her Pre-School Halloween Party

Paige was an Indian Princess but when you asked her she said she was "Belle" (from Beauty and the Beast)

Elyse and I made some pumpkin shaped cakes and she was excited to decorate them. Like we needed more treats!!

Ready to hit the mall.

Paige wouldn't nap because she didn't want to miss "getting treats too!".

We met up with Bruce and Alida at Northland mall for some daylight trick-or-treating. The kids had a great time and it actually wasn't too busy.

I bought Chris this shirt in Great Falls for Halloween, I thought it was fun to get in the spirit of things. The kids are already into the candy!

Caitlin brought the girls over to trick-or-treat around the neighbourhood with us. It was really fun. The little girls lasted for about 3 blocks and then Chris took them back to the house to give out candy.

Brooklyn and Elyse however, were not easily stopped. Caitlin and were both shocked at how big they seemed running from door to door to get more and more candy. After Brooklyn was done, Elyse wanted to go back out so Chris took her and Paige for another block, they loved it this year! It was so great to have another mild night for Halloween, that really helps in the enjoyment for everyone.

Digging into the treats! We have SOOOO much candy, what to do with it all??? The girls are constantly asking for just one more treat, what can I say, they take after their mom with their sweet-tooth's!

The Wiggles

2009-10-19T13:42:00.001-07:00

Uncle Dave got the kids tickets to the Wiggles at the Saddledome. We aren't huge Wiggles fans but we had a great time. The kids I think were excited to be at the dome and see and all the other kids and see the Wiggles live. Thanks Dave for the great tickets!!
The stage

We knew a few of the songs.

Girls Weekend

2009-10-19T13:29:00.001-07:00

Auntie Care had all the girls out for a girls weekend at her place in Deerborn, Montana. Alida and I drove down on Thursday and enjoyed a very nice and relaxing weekend with Kate, Auntie Care, Grandma, Auntie Sue and Mom. We watched movies, read magazines, went for a walk (see picture below of Alida and Kate), unfortunately it was pretty chilly to explore too much (it was about -10). We also went in to Great Falls and had a great day shopping, we went to Ross, Target, Walmart, Sonic for yummy drinks and Jakers for dinner. I got some good bargains, it is always fun to shop in the states and with the dollar being so strong now, it makes the deals that much better. Thanks so much to the Thomas' for hosting such a fun weekend!
I was pretty excited to see my girlies when I got home. They were pretty excited about the goodies I brought them. Paige is showing off her new jammies and hat.

Elyse and her new Princess jammies. They both LOVE Disney Princess things.

I have to thank my husband for watching the girls while I had a great weekend. I think they enjoyed themselves too. It was a party everyday, they went to a movie, Chuck E Cheese, the McDonald's playpark, Perkins, Boston Pizza, got icecream, pizza and Chicken on the Way. Plus they got to play with Connor and Coleman pretty much everyday so I don't think they really even noticed I was gone :)

Kicking Horse

2009-10-19T13:18:00.000-07:00

Chris and I were lucky enough to go up to Kicking Horse again. He had some measuring to do for a job up there and I got to be his helper. I don't think I'll be hired anytime soon but we had a great weekend away. Thanks Mom and Dad for watching the girls!
It is really beautiful there. We had a really nice villa (not as nice as last time), but the heat wasn't on and it took until about 7:00am for the place to warm up, I FROZE, I hate being cold! Other than that, it was nice, we went for dinner to a cute Italian place and then watched movies wrapped up in blankets and got to go in the hot-tub, which felt amazing after being in the freezing house!

Kite Flying and the Zoo

2009-10-19T13:08:00.000-07:00

We went to fly kites by Fowler. It is amazing how high they go with the right kite and a windy day!
I think Chris and I had as much fun as the kids did.

Elyse loved to hold it and she did a really good job. Paige just loved running around.

My girls love to play on the metal animals at the entrance of the zoo.

Split Rock

2009-09-25T12:54:00.000-07:00

Bruce and I took the kids yesterday to Split Rock. I have memories of going when I was kid to look for snakes with Bruce. It used to be waayyyy out, but now there is lots of development around it but it is still a pretty good sized nature area. It is really pretty there.
Elyse and Paige at the rock.

The gang. Bruce was smart to bring nets, Connor and Elyse were loving catching grasshoppers. Elyse wanted me to touch them, she kept saying "come on mom, they just feel like a crayon". Where did she come from :), I do not share her love of bugs! Yet, she is still scared of alot of flying insects like bees and wasps (which have been HORRIBLE this year, I don't ever remember them being so bad!)

Connor and Elyse loved exploring and running around. The only let down was that we didn't find any snakes this time. Connor spotted one but we were too slow to grab it. I love how well the kids all get along these days, Paige and Coleman are just one of the gang. We walked around here all morning and then it was back to Uncle Bruce's for KFC and most likely the last pool party of the year.

Beautiful September

2009-09-25T12:28:00.000-07:00

We went to a reptile show at the beginning of the month, this was for Elyse's benefit. She loves critters! She would have loved to come home with a snake or a frog or a lizard, but not until she is older and can take care of it herself! Paige looks less than impressed but Elyse was super excited to hold this big python, she would have done it herself but it weighed over 40 lbs.
Paige was a good sport and didn't mind the little snakes.

Elyse ready for pre-school. She likes it but she has told me that "they don't really LEARN anything, it is more just playing". Elyse would love it if it was a structured school setting, when they paint, she wants the teachers to show them HOW to paint certain things rather than just letting them paint what they want. She is a funny kid and she has always been so old for her age. Sometime I feel like I have a 14 year old instead of a 4 year old with all the sassy things she says!

We have had the most beautiful September, it kind of makes up for the crappy summer we had weather-wise. I love that as of yesterday - Sept. 24, the kids were still playing in the pool. We have broken a record for the warmest Sept. It was 33 degrees C when I took this picture!

It is fun that Bruce is home, we have lots of "play-dates", Bruce let the kids create all over his driveway with all his various chalk toys. The 3-D glasses for the chalk were very cool!!

Connor was lucky enough to have Darth Vader at his 4th Birthday party. It was pretty cool, even though most of the kids were terrified! Bruce is giving her some light saber pointers :)

Again, Bruce is a pretty fun uncle, he bought a HUGE inflatable pool, it was pretty fun. The kids thought that the water was too cold, they are used to the warm water that Bruce usually fills the pool with but he ran out of hot water try to fill this thing!

First Day of Preschool

2009-09-04T14:59:00.001-07:00

Elyse's first day of Preschool. I was so proud of her, she had a great time and she loved it! My baby is getting so big!

Victoria

2009-09-04T14:18:00.001-07:00

We have had such a busy summer. This is our last big trip of the summer. We are off to Victoria for Crystal and Colin's wedding. This is at the Calgary Airport.
It is such a nice short flight, the girls were great and we got there at 8:30am so we had the whole day. We drove into Sydney with Grandma Anita, it is a really cute little town outside Victoria.

They had a really cool aquarium there called the Shaw Discovery center, it just recently opened and they had the coolest octopus there. We got to see it eat and move around.

Then we took the girls to Beacon Hill park in Victoria. The flowers in Victoria are so beautiful! The girls loved the petting zoo here with all the baby goats to brush.

Elyse at Beacon Hill park

Elyse looking like she is in Europe rather than in front of the mall in downtown Victoria. She is getting so big and she has these really long limbs just like her mommy.

Elyse and Paige in front of the Parliament buildings.

Chris and I in front of the Parliament buildings. They are so pretty and we took a tour inside, really a beautiful building.

At Fisherman's wharf, you can buy a plate of fish for $5.00 and feed the harbour seals. They are really cute, the come and take it right out of your hand. Elyse loved it. She LOVES all animals and in planning on being a vet, well, that or a ballerina.

In front of Undersea Gardens.We went to the Bug Zoo. It was really neat. A guide tell you about all the bugs and then you can hold them if you want. I was grossed out by most of the them but Elyse wanted to hold ALL of them, even the tarantula and scorpion but you had to be 18 to those. This is some sort of beadle I think.

This lovely critter is a nice, big cockroach.

This is big for me. I held the tarantula, I really hate spiders but Elyse was being so brave I figured I could to do it. YUCK!! I still HATE spiders!

And the last one, a huge millipede. She was keen about all the bugs there and I have to say it really helped her. She used to freak-out if a bug came near her and now she had a new respect for them.

Flower girl rehearsal.

Elyse at Gyro beach. We took the girls to the beach in the morning before the wedding to let them run around. I think I could live in Victoria, the girls LOVE the beach and the ocean and it is really beautiful there. We will definitely being going back again. We all loved it!

Paige at Gyro beach

Chris and I at Willows beach.

The Wedding

2009-09-04T13:42:00.000-07:00

The girls were so excited to be flower girls for Crystal and Colin's wedding. They did such a great job. Elyse was very diligent about dropping one flower at a time and Paige forgot to drop the flowers but walked down the aisle perfectly. I was so proud of them, they were excellent this day, so co-operative and they had a great time.
I took sooo many pictures. They girls just looked so precious in their dresses.
Elyse

PaigeThe reception was right on the water. It was a beautiful location.

Paige

Family Picture

Pictures at the government house. The grounds are amazing there and flowers are so beautiful.

My little flower girl.

Smelling the flowers.

The government house.

Colin and Crystal and the girls.

Auntie Crystal and Elyse

My girlies. Crystal bought these really cute purple flowers for their hair, they looked perfect!

The newlyweds. Crystal and Colin make such a great couple. We are so proud of them and the couple that they are. We love you guys!

The girls with Auntie Crystal at the reception. Elyse loved dancing with all Crystal's friends, they really were great at including the girls and Elyse loved to feel like one of the "big girls".

Uncle Colin, Chris and Paige

Vancouver

2009-09-04T13:09:00.000-07:00

After Victoria, we took the ferry over to Vancouver. I loved the ferry ride, it was so beautiful and we saw two whales.

The next day, we walked through Stanley Park and found this huge tree.

This was one of the many fun sights that we saw. Was the seagull really going to eat that starfish!???! We also saw a seagull grab a crab from the water, it was really neat. On our walk, Elyse spotted a raccoon, it was really big and we saw a huge skunk wandering just off Robson street.

The star fish were this really pretty bright purple color and the girls loved all the shells.

We finally made our way to the pool at second beach. The girls loved it! It is a heated pool right next to the ocean. Chris and I still thought it was pretty chilly! Elyse loved going down the slide. She is so brave in water.

Paige has become much braver too. She loved the seal slide.

We met up with my friend Sonja that lives in Vancouver. We grew up together and have know each other for 27 years. Can I really be that old :) We had such a full day, we walked all around Stanley park, went to the beach AND the pool, walked to the ferry to take to Granville Island, walked all around Granville and then walked all the way back to our hotel on Denman and then met up with Sonja and Damon for another walk around the neighbourhood, I definitely deserved the gelato that we had that night!

This was our last day in Vancouver. The aquarium is really nice and huge. We had a great day exploring. Paige's favorite was when the dolphins "walked on their tales" and Elyse loved the butterfly exhibit. I really enjoyed the baby beluga whale, you get to see it up close. The girls were so tired this day that it was a bit of a challenge to make it through the day! We walked soooo much in Vancouver, I think we were all exhausted.

Elyse with one of the giant sea turtles at the aquarium.

Calaway Park

2009-09-04T12:53:00.000-07:00

We went to Calaway park for our annual visit. Alida gets us a great deal through Westjet and it is alway alot of fun.

Look at those happy faces!

The kids on the rollercoaster, Paige started to cry about half way through. We also met up with Steve and Erin and that is their little girl, Sydney sitting with Elyse.

What a fisherman. We went "fishing" at the trout pond at Calaway. This was our big catch, the kids were pretty excited. We cheated a bit and dug up some worms, they give you cookie dough for bait and the fish really aren't interested in it, so when they saw a worm, they were quick to bit on.

Here is a little video of the kids on the rollercoaster.

Sleepover

2009-07-30T10:02:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we had the boys sleep-over while Bruce and Alida went camping with some friends. Everyone had a great time, the kids LOVE hanging out, there is the odd scrap but they are all best friends and Coleman more and more everyday is joining in the chaos.
The kids loved their Freezes, I mean who doesn't !?!?!

Is that a happy kid or what!

All the kids had a great time being wild and tiring Chris and I out!

Connor started the night on the floor in a bed but when I went in to check on them, this is how they were sleeping. I think they finally gave in around 10:00pm, not too bad.

The weather was so great we just had to get Slurpee's the next day after the park. It was just a big treat kind of weekend! After this we hit the outdoor pool.

This was all the kids dancing before bed, we were trying to tire them out before we watched a movie. It didn't really work. I love listening to Coleman laugh through the whole thing.

Santa Rosa July 9-19 2009

2009-07-24T09:40:00.000-07:00

We just got back from a fantastic 10 day trip to California. Forgive all the photos, I just have such a hard time narrowing them down and with 11 people on the trip, I want to include photos of everyone. We had a great time, we fly into San Fransisco and stayed at a really nice hotel on Nob Hill for 2 days. We rode the cable cars, went to the wharf, had dinner in Chinatown, shopped in Union square, saw Golden Gate park, postcard row, the waterfront and lots of the city. I love SF, it is really nice there.
Our first day in San Fran. Walking down to Union Square.

Louis Vuitton or a light-saber store???

The view from the Cheesecake factory in Macy's. It is huge store, about 7 floors.

Paige and Elyse at Union Square.

Elyse and Paige outside of our hotel. With the tallest pyramid structure in the world in the background (or so we were told).

After dinner at the House of Nanking in China town. It was an experience, but the food was really good. The girls loved the little cardboard take-out boxes.

The hills in San Fran are crazy with a stroller, if you had to walk those everyday you'd be super skinny in no time!!

Down at Fisherman's wharf. Alcatraz is in the background. It was chilly down by the water.

Elyse discovered that she loves shrimp. We had lunch at Bubba Gump's, it was delicious!!!

Mommy and Paige at the Pier. The views were amazing there. The kids loved the sea lions, the merry-go-round and all the boats and water.

Laura and Chris with the bay bridge in the background. We went to the embarcadaro for a farmers market.

YEAH! We are here. Our first day in Santa Rosa. We are so fortunate to all be able to come together. The kids love to have their best friends/cousin to play with all day. We had a great 2 bedroom "apartment" at the hotel so we could put the kids down every night and hang out. I saw 4 movies while we were there, that is my idea of a good vacation!!

Santa Rosa is where Charles Schultz lived, the creator of Snoopy and Charlie Brown, so there are status everywhere. This was at the mall.

" Grandpa is that you ???". This is the reason we all went down. My Dad plays in a hockey tournament down there every year for about the past 30 years. We used to go down with my parents when we were kids so it is really neat to see the next generation enjoying it as well. I have so many good memories from then and now!

Elyse and Connor with a dapper looking Snoopy.

Mom and I in the parking lot after the game, the guys need to sit around and re-hash the game. I am showing of my new $0.38 Snoopy ring - okay it is really Elyse's.

Mom and Dad at Howarth Park. It is an amazing, huge park in Santa Rosa. There is a lake, pony rides, splash park, train ride, petting zoo, carousel and climbing walls. It is really great. It was soooo hot this day though, that we didn't last for too long. We were so lucky, the weather was perfect and HOT everyday!

Paige at the park.

The girls LOVED their pony rides.

Elyse is a real horse lover. Look at that red face. I think it was about 40 degrees that day.

Cooling down with Snow-cones!

All that heat and playing is tiring!!

Elyse with Grandpa. We saw 2 of the 3 games and really enjoyed going. Their team won the silver medal. We had a really time on this trip. We went to the pool everyday and shopped and saw all the sights Santa Rosa had to offer. I think an amazing time was had by all!!

Our Beach Day -- Goat Rock Beach

2009-07-23T14:52:00.000-07:00

The Beach is about a 40 min drive from Santa Rosa. As you can tell from the pictures, it was a bit chilly but we had a great time regardless. This place was really cool, there were seals all around in the water, you could see them jump and swim. Despite the gloomy looking weather, this was one of our favorite days, everyone was happy and playful and we really had a great day, we stopped on the way home for some local seafood to finish out the day.
Group picture minus Dad, he opted for a round of golf this day.

Chris and Elyse. Do these two look alike or what!?!??!

Paige and mommy on the beach, Uncle Bruce looking for cool shells in the background.

All the kids at the beach.

Elyse looks like such a California girl, with her flowing blond hair and blue eyes, hanging out at the beach

Hand-stand competition.... you be the judge....

I think we had just as much fun playing at the beach as the kids did.

Ta-da!!

I think we were in cheerleader mode with all the pyramids and gymnastics.

Don't you just love these tender moments??? I love that Paige is on her tippy-toes.

Uncle Bruce loves to find all critters on the beach, he found the kids some starfish and hermit crabs and lots of cool shells and rocks.

More Santa Rosa Fun

2009-07-23T14:22:00.000-07:00

I know I have a problem with how many pictures I take, I just can't help myself!! Uncle Dave is so great to all the kids. He is a big kid himself so that helps :) He loved to play with the kids and spoil them with treats.

Elyse with her "Snoopy" water at the tournament BBQ.

Family pictures with our Calgary Old Buffalo's shirts on. We were there to support the team!!

The siblings and spouses.

Laura, Mom and Alida

The Boys! Bruce, Dad, Chris and Dave.

We were very lucky to get a day away from the kids and tour some wineries in the Sonoma area. It is BEAUTIFUL there!

In our exploring, we stumbled upon Lake Sonoma, it was huge and really pretty.

Chris showing more of his athletic ability, he really isn't 12, I swear :)!!

Now is that a happy kid or what??!!?? All the kids LOVED the pool, it was the favorite activity of the trip.

Chris loves to toss the kids around.

Now it's Paige's turn.

This, much to my kids chagrin (as you can tell by the thumbs down), was one of my favorite things to do on the trip. We shopped a lot and got some good buys. My fav. was the Banana Republic outlet, the deals were amazing!!!

Our last day, getting ready to head to the airport. We had such an amazing time!!!

We thought that we would stop at the Golden Gate bridge overlook on our way back into San Fran. That fog is amazing, do you see the bridge??? It was so foggy and the wind was really cold, San Fran is beautiful but it really is chilly there.

Stampede Fun

2009-07-07T16:59:00.000-07:00

My little cowgirl. Paige took really well to milking the "cow".
Ready to hit the grounds.

Ye haw! I love stampede. I love to get the girls in their boots and hats and go down to the grounds.

Yahoo Paige!

Uncle Dave won both the girls a prize on the mid-way. It is amazing how much they love these things.

We met up with Shannon and Tyler at the Market Mall breakfast. It was a beautiful morning. Paige, Elyse, Tyler and Connor.

Cute cow-poke cousins.

Canada's next top-model ???

I love these two when they are genuinely smiling and have a good time.

Coleman wasn't loving the hat but he was a good sport.

Happy Canada Day

2009-07-07T16:50:00.000-07:00

Elyse has turned into a lover of pictures, she loves to have her picture taken, can't you tell :)

We went to the Canada Day parade in Airdrie, it was pretty fun. The kids love that they throw candy!

Paige and Daddy watching the parade.

Family picture, showing our Canada Day spirit.

This is after a very fun and full day of partying. Bruce and Alida had a BBQ that was lots of fun and the kids ran around pretty much the WHOLE time. I love days like this.

Drumheller

2009-06-24T13:50:00.001-07:00

Last weekend we thought it was time to renew the family tradition of going to Drumheller. We had a great day, some unfortunate events (see pictures), but everyone had a lot of fun. First stop the Bleriot ferry. The kids liked it, the whole 2 minute ride of it :)

Next stop the Royal Tyrell museum. Also a hit with the kids. I hadn't been in years and it is really well done and just enough stuff to keep the kids interested.

I love the look of the badlands

I was surprised but none of the kids were at all scared of the swinging bridge.

The hoo-doos are must. The kids loved climbing on them.

Elyse at the hoo-doos.

Strike a pose. We all tapped into our inner model.

The girls doing a pose.

Mommy's turn to pose!

Cool pose "king of the world".

It is so fun to have Mom and Dad join us on these little adventures.

And now we get to a very familiar sight. Dad and his Audi's! The Audi caused many problems that day and this was the first of two tows. The last tow was all the way back to Calgary and I think it is the end of the Audi's for dad!!

This was the kids favorite part. Climbing up the world's biggest dinosaur. Look at those teeth!

We played count the dinosaurs and I didn't really realize until this trip that they are dinosaurs everywhere, basically on every corner!

Fun Summer activity

2009-06-24T13:41:00.000-07:00

Skating anyone??
Dad's team had booked the rink but no-one could show up so we went with the kids.

They LOVED IT!!!

Elyse did so well, it was only her second time on skates and she was so excited to be doing it herself (with the help of the stand, of course). She cried when we had to leave.

Coleman was a good sport and liked to be pushed around in the stroller.

Vegas Baby

2009-06-24T13:29:00.000-07:00

At the end of May; Alida, Shannon, Christie and I all hit Vegas for 4 days. We had a blast! No kids, warm weather and lots of shopping!!! It was a perfect, well needed break for all. I think we should make it an annual thing :)

We stayed at Excalibur, it is so crazy cheap in Vegas right now - $22.00 a night to stay.

We went to see "Le Reve" at the Wynn. What a beautiful hotel.

My Sweet Liitle 2 year old

2009-05-21T13:06:00.000-07:00

Paige just turned 2 on May 19. She is such a sweet and funny little girl. She loves her big sister and wants EVERYTHING that she wants. She is very feisty and wild but so sweet and loving. She talks up a storm and always refers to herself in the third person, it is soo cute. She loves to call my mom "Marilyn" and my dad "Bumpa". She is handful this one, but I love her to pieces! Happy second birthday my cutie little Paige.

She is ready for her party! I thought it would be fun to have a long weekend BBQ/birthday party but since I planned it for the Monday - the coldest day of the weekend, it was an inside party. It was soo cold out, I think the high was 4 degrees!!

Showing off her big jumps. She finally does get her feet off the ground :) She has the biggest, sweetest smile.

I made cake-pops for the party. Thanks for the help Caitlin, they were a hit! I thought they were really good.

Paige loves to play dress-up. Thanks for all the great presents everyone.

Anytime I asked Paige what she wanted for her birthday she would always say

" Chuck E Cheese, go rides." So here is the birthday girl at her requested birthday location.

My New Hobby

2009-05-05T13:30:00.001-07:00

I thought that I would write about my hobby since it has become my new favorite past-time! I have always loved to shop and bargain hunt but being at home with one income makes it hard to shop! That is unless you coupon shop. I have been doing this for about 6 months now and I can't believe how much money I am saving! I can't believe how much you can get for free or nearly free with sales and coupons. I just had to share. I wanted to scan a receipt and put it on here but my scanner isn't working, so I'll just tell you all about my best shopping trip so far......
London Drugs lets you "stack coupons", you can use multiple coupons as long as they are all different bar codes, so I got......
1 Sunlight Laundry detergent
2 - 15 packs of Cascade action pacs
2 Venus razors (reg. $14.99 each)
2 HE Liquid Tide Total care
Olay night cream
Large bottle of Olay Quench lotion
Olay Definity lotion (on sale for $19.99 -- reg. 36.00)
Olay Bar soap 4 pack
Olay Body Wash
Olay Daily Facials

All of that for the grand total of ......... $11.93 (and $5.04 of that was tax). That is less than the price of ONE RAZOR!!!
My coupon saving alone were $105.00 not to mention that most of it was already on sale.
I know I am a big nerd, but it such a rush to get all these products that I use or have for a treat for myself (like the facial stuff) for next to nothing!

Happy Shopping everyone!

Elyse is 4

2009-04-20T13:05:00.001-07:00

How time flies! I can't believe that Elyse is 4 already. She is a really smart, polite and sweet little girl. She is friendly and outgoing and loves to go places and do things. She really is a joy in our lives and we love her so much.

One of Elyse's favorite places is Chuck E Cheese, so we had to go there for her birthday. She is one of those kids who love mascots.

Elyse loves to "big sister" Paige, sometime I think she thinks she is more like 12 years older than 2 years!

My Hero

2009-04-20T12:52:00.003-07:00

We were on our way to Chuck E Cheese for Elyse's birthday, we made a quick stop at Toys R Us and came out to flat tire!!
Chris came to our rescue in no time with NO complaints. Thanks Babe!! I really appreciate having a good husband to do those "man" things without giving me any attitude!

The Easter Bunny Came

2009-04-20T12:44:00.000-07:00

The girls were thrilled to search out all the treats the Easter Bunny left. I love seeing how excited they get over some chocolate!

My kids could hardly wait to dig it. Paige is a candy-o-holic! She is always asking me for "treats".

Kindersurprise!!

Elyse's Party

2009-04-20T12:34:00.000-07:00

We had an Easter/Birthday party for Elyse on Good Friday. It was really fun. We had an easter egg hunt, bunny cupcakes and lots of presents.

I love the difference in these 2 pictures. The girls playing at the party and then there is the boys playing at the party.

Paige is ready to party in her Easter dress.

Elyse was pretty excited!

Kicking Horse - Happy Birthday to me

2009-03-23T13:23:00.001-07:00

Chris bid on a job in Kicking Horse, B.C. It is about 3 hours from Calgary and he had to go up to site measure. The people he is doing work for said he could stay in their chalet so I thought that I would go up too. Mom and Dad watched the girls for the weekend (thank-you Mom and Dad!!), so we could have a weekend away for my birthday. The chalet was right on the ski hill and absolutely amazing, it was one of the nicest places I have ever stayed. While Chris worked, I chilled out in this amazing place with gorgeous views of the mountains and read a magazine, did my nails, relaxed, you know, all the things you can't do at home with two kids! I had the best weekend, what a great way to spend my birthday! The only downside was I got food-poisoning from my meal on Saturday night but at least I waiting until we were home last night to get really sick!
The view from the Top of the mountain, we took the gondola up. Unfortunately we didn't really have time to ski.

The view was breath-taking! There was so much snow but still it was about 10 degrees warmer than Calgary!

We went into Golden, B.C. which is the town at the base of the Mountain, not much there :)

This is the day we were leaving, this is the chalet's patio leading to the "backyard". It was sunny and nice when we left and then we came home to more miserable weather and a ton of snow. Why can't spring just come already!!

It is a beautiful drive through the mountains to get there. And the drive seemed really quick with no-one fighting in the backseat :)

West Edmonton Mall

2009-03-23T12:43:00.000-07:00

We decided we needed a break from this awful weather and we went to West Edmonton Mall last weekend. Bruce, Alida and the boys decided to join us. We had the best time! We went on rides, out for dinner, saw Sea Lions, went to the water park and shopped. An awesome time was had by all!

Elyse and Connor by one of the many fountains. The kids loved the water.
Of course the big kids had just as much fun on all the rides.

The gang in the big whale that is in the mall.

Paige was a good girl. She was pretty tired by dinner time but the kids were really good all weekend.

Elyse loved to see all the sites in the mall.
Paige enjoying her smoothie - she really is enjoying it, she just has this skeptical look a lot lately!

Daddy and Daughter giving their best cheesy smiles. Do these two look alike or what!?!?!?
We stayed at the FantasyLand hotel right in the mall. This is us checking out all the floors - they are all a different theme. Hollywood!!

Goin' our way? The truck floor.

We watched the Sea Lion show before we left. It was pretty amazing. Paige especially loved it. She kept saying "dolphins" and when I would say they were not dolphins she would call them "sharks". She thought they were pretty funny.

Go Flames Go!!

2009-02-10T13:51:00.000-08:00

Bruce and I took Connor and Elyse to the Flames game on Saturday. Unfortunately there is only 1 matinee game a year so we each decided to take a child. We had such a great time! Elyse is ready to go!
When we got to our seats, Harvey the Hound was there, in all the years I have gone to the games, he has never been in our section. Elyse was thrilled to see him and get her picture taken- talk about good luck!! She LOVES mascots, Connor on the other hand wasn't too thrilled to see him and refused to sit with him for a picture, it is funny how the kids are so different.

There was a reception before the game for long time season ticket holders (thanks Dad!!), it was great, we got free food and drinks and Connor won this Flames hat. He was nice enough to let Elyse wear it for some of the game.

The kids were really good for the game and loved to cheer. Does this look like a happy kid or what!

It was a beautiful day, the view of down town was great from the Saddledome. We of course had to get treats, a malt at the game is a must.

It was a good crowd at the game.

It was such a great day, it really couldn't have been any better, the kids loved it and Bruce and I had a great time too.

January Fun

2009-02-10T13:43:00.000-08:00

The girls and I went to cheer on Daddy and Uncle Bruce in their hockey tournament. Unfortunately they didn't win the tournament but they won the game we saw.

Elyse loved the game but Paige was really scared of the guys in their equipment. Even after Chris took off his helmet she still didn't want anything to do with him.

Are your kids as zoned out watching T.V. as mine? Notice the "T.V. Face" on both of them.

Mom, Dad, Paige and Uncle Dave at Coleman's first birthday party.

New Years

2009-01-08T12:25:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year to all of you. I hope that it is a happy and healthy one! I feel very blessed to have such a wonderful family and have resolved to be a more patient Mom (and drop a few pounds - but hey, I love my chocolate!).

New Years Eve we (Bruce, Alida, Chris and I) went for wings and Mom and dad watched all the kids. We were back by 6:00 and then just hung out. The kids love playing together and we thought we'd see how long they hung in there.
We tried to play a few games, but it is near impossible with the kids. We did play Pictionary with some success. Elyse guessed what Chris was drawing when I couldn't and her pictures were quite good too!
So we made it to 10:00 with the kids - here is our 10:00pm New Year! Chris and I took the girls home and made it to midnight just the two of us. Very mellow this year but it was nice!

New Years Day

We have a tradition of bowling and playing games on New Years Day. We were all a little skeptical of how bowling would go, but it was GREAT! The kids LOVED it and we all had a good time.
Elyse was very keen and loved to cheer everyone one. I was surprised that she was patient enough to wait her turn.

Paige was such a good sport. Every time the ball rolled down the lane she would watch it all the way and then cheer. It was too cute!

We still play games but we have moved on to the electronic type -- the Wii. It is really fun and the kids love it.

Paige and "Bumpa" are best buddies.Elyse and Paige showing off their horses to Grandma. It was really fun to have everyone over. It was a great day.

This is just random but I love that Paige and Elyse are getting to the age that they really like to be around each other. They are so cute together and I hope they will the best of friends.

Christmas Day

2009-01-07T20:07:00.000-08:00

Elyse was super excited. Crystal and Anita had arrived at about 12:30am, we are lucky they arrived at all with all the storms across Canada. Most flights from Victoria were cancelled, so we were thankful that arrived - late but safe and sound. Of course Paige decided this would be a great night to wake up at 2:00am and not want to go back to sleep. She finally feel asleep with us around 4:30am so she was in great shape for a long day of festivities. Elyse and Auntie Crystal, checking out what Santa left in the stockings.

Like I said, Paige was pretty tired, so it took her awhile to warm up to everything.

Elyse was thrilled with all her princess dress-up stuff from Santa. She also was excited to see that he brought her the cupcake maker that she has been asking for all month.

Paige too was excited to get her own set of princess items from Santa. She really wants EVERYTHING Elyse has these days, so smart Santa brought one for her too.

By the time we got to Mom and Dad's to open presents, Paige was about done. It is hard for that age, there is so much going on and so many things to look at, it was a bit of an overload.

Elyse was pretty game to open all the presents.

With all that being said, we had a great Christmas and it was really nice to be able to spend it with both families. I love Christmas and I am sad to see it over, but it was a wonderful time and as the girls get older it just gets better and better.

Christmas Eve

2009-01-07T19:57:00.001-08:00

Christmas Eve, just before bed in new P.J.'s and a new bear.

This is the kids singing Rudolph at Grandma and Grandpa's house.

We always do our big turkey dinner on Christmas Eve so that everyone can relax and enjoy Christmas day. It was a great meal - Thanks Mom!

Paige is ready to hit the party.

Elyse is seriously a poser!

Some Pics of the Christmas season

2009-01-07T19:30:00.000-08:00

These are kind of out of order but these are a few of the things we did during the holiday season. Is it just me or did it go faster than usual this year?!!?? With this brutal cold weather we didn't get to do many outside activities that I love, like the zoo lights. Oh well, there is always next year. We went to a gingerbread making class with Connor and Alida, it was fun and it turned out pretty good.

There is a singing Santa at one of the malls, he plays the piano and sings and Elyse really likes it. She is really into the whole Christmas thing, esp. Santa, she is one of those kids who loves mascots and of course Santa. Paige is a different story. This was her third time seeing a Santa and was only bribed because he had candy - ah the power of a candy cane :)

Paige loves to wear her sunglasses inside but would not keep them on for anything in Bahamas'.

This is what you get when you are busy doing something and you have an older sister to help the younger sister get into things.

See the love of Santa -- we are talking NO fear!

The only good thing about all the snow is that Chris and Elyse made this cool snowman, that was the beginning of Dec and it has been quite cold since.Paige is pretty cool at our Santa party, she is smiles now but cried as soon as Santa arrived.

Elyse again is all smiles. We are so lucky to have Santa come to our party every year to kick off the holiday season. Too bad Uncle Dave missed him ;)

Another round of Ballet

2009-01-07T19:21:00.000-08:00

Elyse and Brooklyn finished their second round of Tiny Ballerina's. Elyse LOVED it. She is such a girly, girl. She loved to have a audience that the recital - Grandma and Grandpa came too. I was suprised at how well she listened - now if I could only get her to do that for me!!!

Bahamas

2009-01-07T19:09:00.000-08:00

I haven't updated for so long, so here is a quick recap of the last two months. We went to Bahamas in November, it was amazing! The girls loved it and it was really nice just to have time to hang out and be together. We were fortunate that Mom could join us and Bruce and Alida and the gang came too.
Paige loved all the fish. Their aquariums are truly world class.

I LOVE this pic of Paige and Chris. She is still a Mommy's girl, but after this trip the race is getting tighter :)

Hello Tumble, Good-Bye Thumb-sucking

2008-11-01T10:18:00.000-07:00

This is Elyse's new favorite toy that I was more than happy to buy her. I told her if she could stop sucking her thumb for 2 weeks we could go to Toys R Us and pick out a toy that she wanted. Well, she saw this Fur Real dog on T.V. and really wanted it so she was very motivated. I am so proud to say that she is DONE sucking her thumb. I can't believe that she broke the habit but she tried really hard and was very determined, quite the feat for a 3 year old. She doesn't even do it at night anymore, way to go Elyse!!

Halloween 2008

2008-11-01T10:08:00.000-07:00

Elyse and Paige ready for Halloween storytime

I am not sure why these are backwards, but oh well! Elyse loved having make-up on for her costume. She was so excited to go around the neighbourhood.

Paige wasn't so thrilled with the whole thing to begin with but she loved it once we got going.

We went to the mall during the day and had a great time. Bruce and Alida were there with the boys too. Paige, Connor and Elyse got quite the haul.

2008-11-01T10:01:00.001-07:00

The girls eating their treats

Paige was pretty excited to discover that all of things we had been getting were candy! She was chewing right through the packaging to get to the chocolate.

The girls were too cute treat or treating. They both loved it and what an amazing night! The weather was so warm, it made for a great Halloween night.

My cutie Puppy and Monkey

The Corn maze

2008-10-10T19:01:00.000-07:00

We went to the corn maze last weekend. It was pretty fun. Unfortunately there had been a frost so the maze was only about 4ft. tall instead of 10 ft. That was fine for us though.
Elyse loved to paint a pumpkin, it was abstract art and it sitting our kitchen table, she was pretty pleased with the results.
Walking through the maze. It was near impossible with the stroller so we turned back shortly after we started.
Doesn't Paige look thrilled. It is so hard to do things and not have her miss her nap time.
The girls loved the pumpkins. They also had a petting zoo there which was a big hit with my animal lovers.

Calaway Park

2008-09-07T12:08:00.000-07:00

We took the gang to Calaway Park for the first time this year. Even Paige and Coleman liked the rides.
We ran into Caitlin and her family so Elyse and Brooklyn went on the "rollercoaster" together. Their faces were so cute.
Tyler, Connor and Elyse on the boat ride
Too much excitement for Paige. The poor girl just gets dragged around everywhere. I guess that's what happens to the second child.

Cute sisters ready to roll!

Crystal's visit

2008-09-07T11:58:00.001-07:00

Chris' sister and her boyfriend Colin came out for a visit last weekend. We had a good time with them - going to Calaway park, a movie and just hanging out.
The girls
Crystal and Elyse. Elyse really liked having Crystal around, she was her buddy. It didn't hurt that she had candy around too.
Crystal and Elyse and Paige

Bear Lake Reunion

2008-09-06T09:43:00.001-07:00

Okay, these for some reason are all out of order but I just don't have time to fix them now -- so oh well!! We had a really great time at the reunion. It was so nice to see everyone again and meet the next generation. Thanks to everyone who organized to make it such a wonderful event.
This is at the open pit mine in Butte, one of my Dad's favorite spots
This is outside of the mineral museum in Butte - ah a high-light of our trip. It actually is quite a pretty town.
Our last stop before home - Head Smashed In Buffalo Jump
Ah, back at home on our brand new swing set that we bought the night before we left for Bear Lake.

Dad and I after our ride on the wave-runner. He loved it!
My 92 year old Grandma taking her turn on the wave-runner. I can only hope that I have her genes. She is truly amazing!
My mom's first time on the wave runner. If her Mom could do it then she could too!
Chris and Paige on the merry-go-round in Bear Lake
Mommy and Paige on the swings. Paige was so fun on this trip. She is getting to be so funny and loves to do everything that we are all doing!

My whole family. There were 90 of us at the reunion and that is not even everyone!
My cutie Elyse. She really is a good girl. She had a bit of a rough trip but overall it was a success
My family with Grandma. Ours is the smallest family.
Poor Elyse. This was right after her fall in the cave. It was so dark that I couldn't tell she was bleeding until I took this picture and the flash went off. She is almost all healed, her knees still have the remnants of this day.
Chris and I having some fun.

This was on the way to the reunion. This is Auntie Care's place in Montana, the view was amazing.
Our stop in Idaho Falls. We had a fun walk to see the falls, Elyse even got to see a fish someone caught.
Elyse told me this was her favorite part of the whole reunion, she loved building the sand castles.
Paige

My Family

My Tiny Ballerina

2008-07-28T14:45:00.000-07:00

Elyse and Brooklyn on their first day of ballet. They were too cute together. It was everyday for a week and Elyse LOVED it. We will definitely be signing her up in the fall for lessons.
On the last day we were able to come in and watch. Caitlin and I were both surprised how much they actually learned and how well they listened.
The princess theme was right up Elyse's alley. They got to wear tiaras and have magic wands
Paige was pretty interested in watching. She was good sport everyday waiting for Elyse and hanging out.
This was last day celebrations. Elyse is always thrilled if she gets her own Slurpee. I was so proud of her in this class. I thought that parents would go in but it was just for the kids, she left me with no problem, she loved having a teacher and doing her own thing. She is getting so big and it was weird to see her on her own, I think we'll be signing up for a few things in fall, she really loves the interaction with the other kids.

Paige and Elyse singing

2008-07-14T10:42:00.000-07:00

I love Paige singing at the beginning of this, I don't know how to edit the other parts out - oh well! We were coming back from a day of sun and fun and ice cream at Eau Claire.

More Stampede Fun

2008-07-08T19:37:00.001-07:00

My other little cowgirl. Paige is also getting in the spirit! She loves the pancakes.
Heading out to a stampede breakfast. Our idea of stampeding has changed alot since kids, we used to be heading out for the night, now most of our stampeding is done by noon :)
Connor and Elyse at the Market Mall breakfast. They were so cute together holding hand the whole time through the mall. They really are best friends.
Elyse and Tyler, enjoying some music and sun.
Paige loving the free breakfast. She just looks like such a big kid in these pictures.

Yahoo!!!

2008-07-08T19:24:00.001-07:00

Paige and Mommy and Elyse. We went to a Stampede BBQ and they had "hayrides" the girls loved it. They are really enjoying all the stampede fun, as is their Mom!
Daddy and Elyse checking out the action down at the grounds. We took Elyse on Sunday and it was crazy busy. She loved watching the rides and having treats!
Chris and Elyse checking out the native village. Elyse was pretty interested in the Tee-pees - it must be her heritage coming though :)
Getting ready to leave after a long day. We left Paige with Grandma and Grandpa, she had a great day of her own, she went to 2 parks AND a Stampede breakfast all with Grandpa - thanks Dad!
My little cowgirl. Elyse loves excitment and it has pretty much been non-stop for the last little while. We stayed home yesterday and she was sooo bored, she loves to go and do, I think we've done that to her. I love to go out and do things too and she is getting much easier to take places, we have a lot of fun together.

Canada Day

2008-07-08T19:18:00.000-07:00

Here are Paige, Connor, Coleman and Elyse waiting for the parade in Airdrie to start.

Bruce and Alida had a Canada Day party and there were so many kids, it was alot of fun!
Here are my Canadian girls looking alittle tired after a long day of fun.

Look Who's 1 !!!

2008-05-21T14:26:00.001-07:00

Look at all the dark hair!! Now she is such a blondie!
Here is the happy birthday girl. Paige is a really good girl and I can't believe that she is already a year old. We love you so much Paige and you have been such an amazing addition to our family. Paige is loving having Hayley stay with us and of course she is a big fan of her big sister.
Paige wasn't so sure about the candles and the party but I think she had a good time!
She has such a cute smile, she makes you work for it sometimes though. She is talking alittle bit, she likes to say "Bumpa" and tries to say Hayley. She is also good at saying Hi and Bye-Bye. It is so cute to watch her discover all of the new things she can do. The next big milestone will be walking but I think we are a ways away from that.

More Dominican Fun

2008-05-13T10:22:00.001-07:00

Do these two look like brother and sister?
Crystal and I at the disco. It has been along time since I had a 3:00am night dancing. It was so much fun!
This is Chris after our Dune Buggy trip. There was not a clean inch on either of us, it was so much fun!! My clothes though are still stained after multiple washings, the "white" shirt that Chris wore ended up in the garbage!
Frolicking in the water

Ah, the fun island clothes! It felt so good to wear summery things. It was snowing when we left and was snowing when we landed home - lovely spring weather!

Dominican

2008-05-13T10:04:00.000-07:00

Chris and I went to Dominican Republic at the beginning of the month for Chris' cousin's wedding. We had such a great time. I was really nervous leaving the girls but I knew they were in good hands with my Mom and Dad. It was a really great break and I am really thankful for Mom and Dad for taking such good care of the girls.
We took archery lessons, it was a weird feeling being able to do things that we wanted to do and not spend our days at the park or taking care of the kids :)
Don't we look happy and relaxed!
My handsome husband just relaxing. I actually read a whole book, it has been years!!
The happy couple. Shane and Nicole. They had a good turn out, about 40 people came. Chris was the best man.

Party time

2008-04-18T10:37:00.000-07:00

It has been constant Party time for Elyse. This is our family dinner, Paige and Elyse liked the sparklers.
These are the partiers at Chuck E Cheese. Andreas, Connor, Elyse, Astell, Coleman (Tyler and Paige aren't in the picture)
Here is Elyse showing off her bowling skills. She loved her party and had so much fun playing all the games.
Elyse loves Chuck E Cheese, she is one of those kids that chases the mascot around. She was pretty disappointed that she didn't get to sing Bingo with Chuck E. Cheese but they sang Happy Birthday instead.
Paige got in on the action too. She was a really good girl, but not crazy about the mouse that moved and talked. Thanks for everyone that came to the party and helped us celebrate Elyse's 3rd birthday.

Elyse the 3 year old

2008-04-18T10:18:00.000-07:00

Well Elyse turned 3 on Monday. She is my big girl. She is a very sweet, loving little girl with a very outgoing personality. She already has attitude to spare, I hate to think of her as a teenager! The time goes so fast and she has added so much joy to our lives. We love you so much Lysee Jean!
Elyse picked this dress out herself while I was shopping at Winner's. She came running up with this dress declaring that she "found the perfect dress for her birthday". It was too cute and her size so I got it for her. She is my shopping buddy, she loves the mall and is excited for Old Navy and Children's Place and especially Gymboree because they have a T.V.!
Elyse showing me old she is.
Elyse in her room
Showing off her dance moves. She loves to sing Beattles songs (thanks to her dad) and loves the Top 40 stuff like Justin Timberlake, Madonna and sadly Brittney Spears - currently she has her own renditon of Piece of Me as well as that Apple Bottom Jeans song. But she does also like the classics such as her ABC's and the Spiderman theme song (thanks again to her Dad)
She is looking so old! She loves to have her picture taken and she is truly a girly, girl. She always wants a bow in her hair and loves to wear the bracelet that Caitlin made her. Mommy is happy to oblige!

Family Picture

2008-04-18T10:11:00.001-07:00

Connor and Elyse at Aunt LaRue's 90th Birthday Party.

We don't have too many pictures of all 4 of us together, I am usually the one taking the pictures.

Another Dimension

2008-04-18T09:58:00.000-07:00

Here are some examples of Chris' metal work. Check out his website at www.anotherdimension.ca His business is starting to grow and I am so proud of him! It has almost been a year and it had been an emotional rollercoaster but things are going well.

More Easter Pictures

2008-03-26T10:16:00.000-07:00

Paige in her Easter finery. It is like having a little doll to dress up.
Mommy and Paige. Elyse wanted to know where my dress was, but I figured the bright yellow blouse was Springy/Eastery.
We had another Easter egg hunt for the kids when Connor came over.

Grandma and Grandpa supplied the prizes for the hunt. It was like a mini-Christmas for the kids. Now the debate is what to do with all the candy, there is no way I will let Elyse eat it all and I really am trying to show some self-restraint! I have to get into a bathing suit in a month for our Dominican Trip so I really don't need the extra calories!

Easter

2008-03-26T10:08:00.001-07:00

Elyse finding the eggs that the Easter Bunny left
Paige puts EVERYTHING in her mouth, she is just enjoying sucking on the eggs.
We decorated Bunny Cupcakes and Easter baskets for dessert. We had everyone over this year for a big turkey dinner, my first time doing turkey! I think it all turned out well.
Mommy and Elyse
Elyse in her Easter dress, she is such a girly, girl! She LOVES to put on dresses and twirl around.

My 31st Birthday

2008-03-26T09:58:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that I am 31, how the time flies! I love the place I am at now, I love being a mom and a wife and having such a wonderful family to share my birthday with. And after all, age is a state of mind and I still feel 20 (well, like a tired 20 year old!)

Oh Elyse!

2008-03-16T12:44:00.000-07:00

This is my little model. I take way too many pictures and Elyse is always saying take a picture of me! But this is after she had a scrap with Connor and neither her or I was very happy about it. Good thing these kids are so cute or argghhh I don't know what would happen :)

The classic head-hang! Elyse is very spirited in all aspects in her life, she plays hard, loves hard and fights hard! But she really is a joy to have around, even though Mommy is excited for the terrible two's to end!

Some Recent Pic's

2008-03-16T12:32:00.000-07:00

Elyse is a VERY lovey little girl, she is alway giving all of us hugs and kisses and telling us she loves us.
Elyse is getting so big, she looks more like a "kid" and less like a toddler everyday!
Here's the Paigers looking so cute. She is starting to protest now when Elyse takes things from her. She is pretty feisty! I think I am going to have some epic battles to come!
This is a classic Elyse pose. She is trying REALLY HARD not to suck her thumb, but it is a challenge. We went to see Dr. Thomas and Elyse told her she was trying not to do it anymore, we'll see what happens, and thanks for the check-up Jess!
We have had some really nice weather the last few weeks. We took the kids to the zoo and Connor, Coleman and Alida joined us. I love this picture of Connor and Elyse trying to see the Zebra's. It was really nice to get out. I can't wait for Spring!

Updates

2008-03-16T12:19:00.000-07:00

My Happy little Paige is a mover these days. She does this very unique scoot rather than a traditional crawl but it gets her where she wants to go quite fast!
Elyse is into crafts and art these days. She really enjoys the paint with water (as do I since there is really no mess involved). As you can see, she is a multi-tasker, painting and drinking at the same time.
Here are the kids eating MacDonald's at Grandma's 92cnd Birthday party. There is nothing like MacDonald's to bring a group of kids together.
Laura, Elyse and Paige with Grandma Thelma on her 92cnd Birthday. Grandma is amazing and such an inspiration to us all.
Cheers! This is our Valentine's day dinner with the girls, a nice fine cranberry juice and cheese and chocolate fondue (or Can-do as Elyse called it). It was a really fun night and Elyse loved it. Ah, how times have changed - so much for romance :)

Winter Fun

2008-01-15T21:26:00.001-08:00

We all got Dave a Wii for Christmas. It is so fun and addicting! Here is Dave and Chris trying out the boxing game. Good thing we don't have it - I would be playing it all the time. It was fun for everyone. Mom and Dad had a good game of Tennis as did Bruce and Alida. I showed off my bowling skills and beat everyone!
On Boxing day we took the kids to try out their new skates from Grandma and Grandpa.
Bruce brought along a sled - the kids loved it. Skating was a bit tricky to catch on to but the kids loved being there.
Look at those happy faces! The things we do for the kids. They could have gone up and down the hill all day but it was a bit tiring for Bruce and Chris to have to keep running up and down with them!

We had a really great Christmas and New Years and as always I was a bit sad to see it end but I am looking forward to a healthy and happy 2008! Happy New Year to everyone (even though those wishes are slightly belated).

Christmas Day

2008-01-15T21:15:00.001-08:00

Elyse got her "very own make-up", so now hopefully she can stay out of Mommy's! She is such a girly-girl. Thanks Auntie Crystal and Grandma Anita for the purse full of jewelery and make-up!
Paige was the happiest kid Christmas morning - she just loved the excitement of it. She of course was most interested in the paper and the bows but Elyse was more than happy to help her open her presents.
Christmas morning is so great with the kids. I love to see the excitement and joy as they open all their presents.
This is round 2 at Grandma and Grandpa's. The kids got spoiled as did the rest of us. It was a wonderful day, full of fun.
Elyse must have been a good girl, because she asked Santa for drums and that is just what he brought her! She loves the Cadbury Gorilla Commercial and that inspired her desire for the drums (I like it too - we watch it all the time on Youtube)

More Christmas time fun

2008-01-15T21:05:00.000-08:00

Bruce and Alida hosted the Kvellestad family party this year it was a lot of fun. Here is our whole gang and soon to be one more - we are just waiting on Alida & Bruce's new arrival due Feb 1
We took the kids to the Zoo lights - Connor and Elyse had a great time rolling around the "snowballs" I love the Christmas season probably just as much as the kids. I love to go to the zoo and see all the lights.
Elyse was helping me do some baking - she is my little helper. She always wants to help me do whatever it is that I am doing - let's hope she is always as keen!
Our little family.
Precious little Paige on Christmas Eve. We went to my parents for the big turkey dinner - it was delicious!

2008-01-15T20:54:00.000-08:00

My happy little Paige
Elyse loves doing everything on her own - she loved decorating cookies
Can we say excited to go see Santa !?! There was a singing Santa at North Hill mall this year - Elyse LOVED it - she danced and sang along and Paige loved the music too.
Elyse is doing really great on Potty training. It only really took her a week.

Elyse in her Christmas dress

Bahamas Part 3

2007-11-28T16:51:00.000-08:00

I guess I did this backwards, this is the end of our trip, see below for the beginning
Elyse had her hair braided.
I love how Paige is just one of the gang in this picture. This was at the Marina, we went almost everynight and watched the boats and listen to the live music. It was so cute, Connor and Elyse loved to dance to the music.
Bruce found a jellyfish for the kids to see. Apparently this kind doesn't sting so the kids could touch it
This was the lazy river ride - it was great. The kids loved it. Alida took Connor and Bruce took Elyse so I could take some pictures.

Connor and Elyse had so much fun on the trip. They really love each other and are so fun to watch. We all had a great time - I would definitely go back again!

Bahamas Part 2

2007-11-28T16:39:00.000-08:00

Paige and I at the beach. The sand was nice, white sand
Laura in one of the many aquariums
Elyse looking at the eels - they were kind of creepy!
Laura and Elyse at the turtle feeding
Cutie Paige at lunch time.

The Bahamas

2007-11-28T16:26:00.000-08:00

We decided to go on a last minute trip to Paradise Island, Bahamas. Bruce and Alida got a great deal so we decided to join them. Unfortunately Chris could not come because of work but Mom came to help out and have a vacation. We had an amazing time - it just wasn't long enough, when you are going that far with 2 little ones getting there is a battle and we only stayed 5 days! The girls did great on the plane and LOVED the water and beach. It was a big effort to get there but totally worth it!
Elyse on the plane. Good thing for treehouse! She watched T.V. most of the way there. Paige had a few little naps and did great!
Paige getting ready for our first day at Atlantis.
Mom, Elyse and I at Atlantis - what an amazing place!
Elyse watching the sharks, the aquariums were out of this world.
Elyse loves the water and the water slides, I think she went on this one about 20 times.

Sisters

2007-11-02T15:24:00.000-07:00

Swimming

2007-10-20T20:57:00.000-07:00

This was Paige's first time swimming. We took her to the VRRI - she loved the warm water and didn't cry at all -- she was so relaxed she was sucking her thumb! I have another thumb sucker on my hands!

Elyse loves going down the slide - she has no fear and goes right under at the bottom.

Loving Fall

2007-10-20T20:44:00.000-07:00

I have been loving the mild weather. It has given us lots of opportunities to go to the park. I took most of these at Confederation Park. I love it there, it is beautiful and Elyse loves to see the ducks.
I love seeing Daddy's and kids holding hands - I love this picture.
Laura and Paige, Elyse (not in a co-operative mood) and Chris and Hayley
Chris and Elyse looking at the ducks.
Elyse playing in Grandma and Grandpa's yard - she helped Uncle Dave and I rake up all the leaves and then had a great time playing in them.

Kids at Jess' Shower

2007-08-24T13:38:00.001-07:00

No pictures of the Bride-to-be, just the cousins all watching SHREK. Charlie, Carson, Ashley, Elyse, Brooklyn and Quinn. It was a really fun shower and lunch.

My 2 year old!!

2007-08-24T13:32:00.000-07:00

This is Elyse in her room when she should have been napping, I went in and she had taken off her diaper and put on her "rainy boots" to "clean-up" her room. I just had to laugh and grab the camera!
Precious Paige in a little knit hat that Grandma had bought in Germany for Elyse but it was too small and it fits Paige perfect!

New Camera

2007-08-24T13:16:00.000-07:00

We just got a new camera and here are some shots of my girls. I love the black and white ones. Elyse is my little poser that is why I love the first one, she wasn't paying any attention to me.

Paige is such a good baby, this is her sleeping in my arms.

YAHOO - STAMPEDE

2007-07-11T19:55:00.000-07:00

My little cowgirl

Stampede! I think this was Elyse's favorite part. Who doesn't love "Those Little Donuts"

Elyse and Laura. She is all smiles now, but she really didn't like the "swings", she is still telling me how she didn't like this ride. We bought a ride pass but she was about an inch too short for most of the rides. We went on a few and she liked the funhouses and the Merry-go-round. Maybe next year we'll get to go on some other rides :)

Tyler, Elyse and Connor at the Market Mall Stampede breakfast. It was crazy busy but we did get to the petting zoo and had the girls picture taken.

My other little cowgirl - she is always along for the ride but she was in the western spirit.