Movie Night with Chase

Friday night, Chase and I went to the dollar show and saw Space Monkeys. We rarely get out just the two of us so we were both pretty excited. We stopped off and bought the candy - then got our popcorn and soda at the show. As we sat down, I looked over - little him sitting in this big theater seat that looked as if he could be swallowed by it at any moment (ha)... I whisphered, "hey if you ever feel like coming over and seating with me you can".. He says "REALLY.. CAN I?" He was so excited and plopped right into my lap. I figured it would last all of 5 minutes. Instead we sat that way the entire show. It was so nice to sit together... to hug and hold him. We laughed a lot. What a fun night. I think we both needed it. It's amazing how life changes from 1 to 2 kids. I wish I could dedicate more one-on-one moments like these. Upon leaving, Chase said..."Mom, I love you" ... (wow~that was all I needed to hear). What's that commercial? .... movie $2, candy $4, spending an evening eating bad popcorn and enjoying a cheap kids flick with your son... PRICELESS. Sign me up for more.

10 months already

Can you believe it? Where has this year gone? Let's see, she stands up on her own and walks guided by furniture. She loves baths, grabbing the phone or remote and always my keys. Her favorite toy is Dolly - a little stuffed doll particularly at nap time. She just started waving bye-bye and gives wet open mouth kisses. She says momma, dada, Tase (for Chase), 'all done', down, bath, BaBa (bottle). She is a constant imitator. Favorite foods are blueberries, bread, cheese, and prunes (I can't open the package fast enough...ha-ha). She's not fond of veggies so we sneak those in wherever we can. She prefers drinking from the glass and almost refuses a sippy...ugh. She's loves books and turning pages... always reaching for the same ones... 'Baby Faces' and 'I Can'. She loves music and we'll catch her dancing in the living room. She sleeps through the night finally (that took a while). She's a daddy's girl and lights up when he walks through the door. It's so sweet to hear how loud she laughs with Pete. She loves Chase and always calls for him. They like to roll around the floor together and he's always helping and teaching her things. Although he cannot figure out why he can't toss her up in the air and wrestle with her on the floor yet. ha-ha... there's plenty of time for that I'm sure...

Daniel's Farm

We met our friends Sandy and her son Cole at the pumpkin patch. This place is just down the street from our house. Lots of fun for the kids. We got quite a workout that day trying to keep up with them two. Where one went, the other was sure to follow. It was sweet.

Theis Farms

We took the kids to Theis Farms again this year. It's one of our favorites. They have a lot of activities for kids like hay mazes and hayrides but Chase preferred to spend most of his time on the "Pirate Ship"...Argh! Reece was just happy to be outside with all the kids playing. Fun day but was it hot!

Backyard Camp Out

We had a camp theme - end of summer playdate in the backyard. While no s'mores (I was too nervous to light up the fire pit) I did borrow my neighbors huge tent ~ thanks again Dawn!

We sang camp songs, made a 'camp craft', brought out the playdoh and had an impromptu pizza party in the basement. The kids had fun - even the big kids like me.

Apple Pizza Day

Picked Chase up from preschool today and he was excited to tell me... "Guess what mom we made Apple Pizza today! Can we make it at home?" ... "Maybe - what's the recipe?"

"Ok here goes. First you do a biscuit and smaaasssssh it in the front. Flip it over and smaaasssh it in the back. Add some cinnamon. Chop apples into little pieces and spinkle over pizza. Put it in the oven and go play outside. That's it. Then you play outside again. It tastes yummy mom and very awesome .. you'll like it a lot!"

I always look for recipes with "go play outside" don't you? (ha-ha) We're suppose to go apple picking this weekend at Eckerts with Angie & Steve. Now we have something delish to make when we get back.

Faust Park Festival

These were taken at Faust Park during their Folk & Arts Festival. They opened up the historic homes in the village and we got to tour them. Chase was like a sponge and seemed eager to learn about the old days. We went inside a T-P, churned butter, wrote our names with feather and ink, saw a blacksmith working in the barn, and met a gypsy. The playground and free carousel rides were the main highlights ofcourse...ha. It was a fun afternoon.

Fall Party

This was Reece's first Halloween Party...ha. Our moms group has one each year and all the kiddies dress up. I have a costume for her but it was too hot to wear that day. Chase in his spiderman attire was running around the whole time and very excited to be there.

On top of spaghetti all covered was ME

This was Reece's first taste of spaghetti. I was going to cut it up and help feed it to her but decided to give her the bowl to have fun with instead... and that she did! Spaghetti - Spaghetti everywhere Spaghetti... in her diaper, ears, you name it. It was really cute.

How to make a bed

#1. Stand on the bed while pulling covers up towards headboard. This may seem awkward at first but trust me it works!
#2. Once you're hit the pillows sit down and take a break. Now make sure everything's pulled up nice and neat.
#3. This is important - Hang off the bed to pull that last bit of cover over but try not to fall.
#4. Use a decorative pillow to complete the look or any toy like a Spiderman will do.

It's a Bird, It's a Plane, It's...

SUPERMAN CHASE!

Who can change the course of mighty rivers, bend steel with their bare hands and has powers far beyond those of mortal men? You guessed it (ha-ha). I spotted some inexpensive play clothes at a resale event last week (spiderman, superman and power rangers). Chase was very excited to say the least. Here are the pics of one of his favorite outfits. We had to do several takes since I'm not THAT fast at taking pictures and he wanted to be sure I caught him "in flight". Go Superman!

Our surprise visit

My friend Kristina stopped by as we were bringing in groceries. She was patrolling the park behind us. Kristina is an amazing person, mom of 3 and a great friend. She also works for the police department. Kristina invited Chase into her patrol car. Chase was eager to turn on the sirens, flash the overhead lights, listen to the radio and ask lots of questions. He was also offered a junior badge which he proudly wore for days afterwards. He even slept with it on and snuck it into his pocket before heading to preschool. He had to show his teachers right!?

Before our visit was over, Chase ran into the house and grabbed some granola bars, raisins, and yogurt bites snacks. Then he raced out and was eager to give them to Kristina, her kids Adriana & Andrew (sorry Joey), and to all the other policeman at the police station..."Please make sure they get it he said." "Can I ride with you?"

Thank you Kristina. (Ha-Ha) That was a great visit.

A day at the park

Today we went to Creve Coure Park, packed a lunch, and had a picnic. Chase also ran around the water sprinklers and played with friends he met on the playground. I put both kids in those little swings. It was so fun to tickle and swing them both at the same time. Reece and Chase were laughing so loud. Chase likes it when I do the underdog so he swings high and Reece was just having a great time being there watching big brother. It was a special day and one that made me reflect. I'm thankful to have the opportunity to stay at home with them and spend these moments together.

8 months

She's 8 months today. Where does the time go? Let's see - she crawls, stood up a few times and has officially graduated from her swing, bouncy seat and big high chair. Those went away this weekend. She's also not too crazy about baby food and would rather eat the real stuff. Tonight she ate grilled chicken, steamed green beans, pureed carrots, and noodles. It's funny to see her self feed. She slowly takes her first finger and thumb to pick each food up. It goes to her mouth but then she hasn't quite grasped the whole letting go of the food once it makes it there (ha-ha). She's working on it though and we make little applauses each time. Favorite foods: Watermelon, canteloupe and peaches.

She's very vocal these days. She has perfected Da Da and loves saying it when Pete's around. She's also energetic and determined when she focused in on a must-have item. Almost jumps from my arms...she's strong. She's in a (only wants mom) stage as well. I admit a part of me loves it.

Chase is a super big helper and loves to feed her, bring diapers, toys and will sneak in those tickle-her-belly-with-his-nose-moments any chance he gets. Big laughs from both! His last day of what we call summer school (Mom's Day Out) is Thursday and next month he will start preschool 3 days a week. I miss him when he's gone 1 day a week. How will I get through 3?

What's a Bug Light?

We came back from Rend Lake this weekend from a mini annual trip with the Schwents. We were nervous taking Reece on the boat so, Pete & I each took shifts staying back. I can't wait for the day where we can all go together.

Chase has no fear of the water and loved to swim, jump, and play ball with cousin Austin, Uncle Danny and Uncle Bill. Uncle Bill even took him to the playground when he wasn't feeling well...thank you. Uncle Danny let Chase drive his boat but was a miss when he failed to show up with a piece of chocolate like he usually does (ha-ha). The whole weekend Chase was sure to ask "Where's my special treat you always give me Uncle Danny"? We even heard it on the way home..."since Uncle Danny didn't bring me a special treat, how about you give me ..." He's got a good memory I must say and is quite the negotiator at 4.

Most of us went skiing including myself who took 4 spills before getting up. I couldn't believe how nervous I was and why I couldn't just bounce up like I did when I was 20 (who knew). Chase told me even though I fell, I still won the competition. Awww...thanks hunny!

Quotes...
"Mommy what's a BUG LIGHT?" This after hearing Aunt Angie asking Danny to pass her a 'Bud Light'..."It's a light for bugs hunny."

We were talking about a boat nearby. "Mommy what's a party boat?" "It's a boat where they have birthday parties Chase." "Can we have a birthday party on our boat? Uncle Danny can we??"

A story was being told ...."There's always one fat drunk guy in the group who has to sing... and he just kept singing!!" I shall remain nameless on who quoted it but you know who you are...(wink).

Little Tisha loved her time too especially when Uncle Bill was playing his guitar. The look in her eyes was priceless. She was like a deer in headlights stopping for several minutes...just in awe. Chase was oblivious to it as he was making some dance moves of his own. All the while, Aunt Glenda smiling and laughing.

Thanks guys! We love you.

What's that in the tub?

It happened. Reece made her first little 'floaty' in the tub tonight. How did I miss the signs? Ugh! She was very happy after that and was eager to discover her new bath toy? She kept trying to play with it. Some pictures of Chase and Reece taken a couple weeks ago. This was Reece's first discovery of the ducky tub (it used to be Chase's). Chase was happy to join in and wants to take a bath with her all the time now. Thank goodness it wasn't tonight!

Washington County Fair

Pictures from the Fair this weekend...










Chase mastered a driving course and got his first driver's license (ha-ha). He was proud to show it off. We loved this fair. Washington is a cute town with beautiful scenic roads. We'll definitely be back. When asking Chase what his favorite ride was..."All of Them!"

Mamma Mia

Saw the movie last night with Amy. Wow!! It was so good. I was this close < to dancing in the aisle. It's about a daughter getting married and the music in it was AMAZING. Plus the scenery was spectacular. Music really moves us all doesn't it! Chase, Reece and I love to turn up the stereo and dance around the living room. Chase is very theatrical in his moves... it's so funny. There was one scene in the movie where she asked her mom to help her get dressed the morning of her wedding. Very touching scene I cried. It reminded me of Reece and the beautiful bond between a mother and daughter.

Up to speed

I went back to my moms groups and carried over some previous postings involving the kids. So glad to have them. Some go back to 2005. It almost felt like I was journaling and well, I guess I am. I look forward to posting new events and adding some pictures.

It's Official

Hey...another post! (ha-ha) I sent out an announcement of our family's blog. Hi guys~I've started a family blog. FINALLY! This is for several reasons. One - I'm horrible at keeping up with the journals and scrapbooking so this is truly the next best thing. Two - I want those beautiful babes of ours to know how much we loved and cherished the moments we have with them. Hopefully the internet will still be around when they're able to look back on it...ha-ha... Last but not least, we have many loved ones in various parts of the country and ya' all keep moving on us! We hope this is way to keep in touch while providing a few updates. So here it goes as I nervously unvale it. Let's just say at the end of the day, my creativity is zapped!!! Hopefully you get the just of it. http://arehart4.blogspot.com/ Love you guys and don't forget to bookmark this site. I'll probably get some kind of internet award for it some day. Ha-Ha --- NOT!

She Crawling!

Our babies are growing....
Yesterday Reece made the big swing the arm up high and crawled 3-4 (steps?) movements with a ..."What did I just do? Wow, that was neat!"... look. We were all pretty excited and big brother came rushing in from the kitchen to see it...ha-ha. I can't believe how fast this time is going which is why I am long overdue in starting this blog. I want to remember the moments and I need to write it down. Reece has her 2 front bottom teeth, is sitting up... self feeds, eagerly grabbing the spoon to take over. She's a thinker that girl. It's amazing to see the look in her eyes when she's figuring things out. I'm constantly in awe at how much and at what speed a 7 month old can carry out. If only my brain would operate that fast.

Chase is growing up every day and it's so beautiful to see the two of them together. He is such a wonderful big brother. He's always looking out for her, entertaining her, loving her and the laughter between them makes my heart melt. He's been very active this summer with his first swim lessons and first T-Ball games. He's big on practicing his writing lately. Letters, numbers and coloring pictures within the lines. Afterwards, he likes to staple the pages to make a book. Then tells me he's going to work now. Gives me a kiss and says, "I'll see you later mom. I'll bring you a surprise when I come home." Which is usually a piece of paper or some candy...ha-ha. I love it all the same.

Today, Chase went to the baseball field while Pete was playing baseball. Pete's team won the game and they celebrated with icecream later. Can you say "Butter Pecan"? Family favorite for them. Like father like son. Pete and Chase really enjoy their time together.

Last but not least...Pete and I went to the casino last night to celebrate Sonny Bourbon's B-day. It had been several months since Pete and I have had an official "date night" and it was some much needed fun time together. We had a blast and I especially enjoyed winning $250 at Blackjack baby! I was on a roll ~woo-hoo~ and didn't want to leave. You know it!

Well that concludes the first post. Hopefully many more to come. We're headed to Rend Lake in a couple weeks for a mini-family reunion. I can't wait!

OHIO

Pete was on a 3 week business trip and during this time our good friends Donnie, Roberta and Heather invited us to drive back to Ohio with them so we could each visit our families. Thanks to Heather's patience, Donnie's planning, and Roberta's goody bag the kids did great.

The first picture is 3 generations of Letitias. Great Aunt Tisha with the white hair (as Chase calls her) Aunt Tisha (my wonderful sister-in-law) and our Little Tisha Reece. We had fun and spent lots of time with Grammy and Pap Pap. Some highlights were paddle-boating with Grandma at Ogleby, riding with Pappy on the lawn mower, dives, flips & icecreams pops at the pool, playing in the backyard with cousins Emily & Katie, seeing our nephew crawl for the first time, and Little Tisha meeting more of Pete's family. It was a great trip but we really missed Pete. Prepare for fun when visiting Ohio. Grandma & Pap Pap - you're the best!

She has teeth!

Actually 2....the bottom front ones. I discovered them today as she was drinking from a glass and I heard them tap the cup. She's at such a fun age right now. She's imitating us. She's so strong and active. Gets up on all 4s and rocks. She'll then scoot backwards. She's all over the place. Have really had to baby proof things...ha-ha I'm so excited. She's over 1/2 year old already. Time flies!

Chase plays T-Ball

This was his first practice. We were all so excited!! Pete's promised to update this post soon.

Our beautiful sky story

We (Chase and I) were riding to Costcos and having some mommy and me time. As I was driving, straight ahead was this incredible sky. I was in awe really. There was this amazing majestic blue color sky with huge rays coming through the fluffy clouds and all the way down to the highway. It was the most beautiful site I had ever seen. I said to Chase look - look at the sky...see how the sun's rays are coming through the clouds. Isn't that incredible? Isn't that beautiful!!! Then he says, "yes - it's as beautiful as you and baby Reece."I was like what? What did you say? Then he says it louder to the point where he's yelling it as if I'm deaf..."it's as beautful as you and baby Reece..."Oh my gosh, where did THAT come from? Out of nowhere!...And did that ever melt my heart. Sometimes I think...there's a little man inside him. It's funny when they start to talk grown up like. Ah, they grow up so fast don't they. (sniff-sniff) Wish I could freeze these moments in time.

Sleep Baby Sleep

I think I need a refresher on how to help train my baby to sleep. She's up more than ever! She's 5 months old now. I switched her from our room to hers and from the bassinet to the crib. Thinking she's in her crib she might sleep better and longer. right??? She used to sleep until 3am then would get up at 5am but now she's getting up at 1 - 3 & 6am and sometimes will get up at 11pm. She's going down to sleep around 6pm.I'm trying to follow the Happy Healthy Sleep Book by Mark Weisbluth that worked like a charm with Chase but it's not working yet with Reece. So while I am still nursing at night, I try to put her down awake but I'm not so sure she still needs to eat at night. MY SIL stopped doing that with her child at 2-3 months after her doctors suggestion.Also, I'm trying the cry it out method but that's so hard. I'll only let her do it 20 minutes and then I give in. Give me the goods guys. I AM SO READY to get a full night's sleep in and I want that for Reece too.

Lemonade anyone?

Chase was thirsty so he decided to make himself some lemonade. I came into the kitchen to find this.

His Sleep Aids

Can't sleep?
Grab a sword, a cash register and a lunch box and you'll be off to dreamland too...

3 peas in a pod

Chase with his cousins Emily and Katelyn when they visited in April. They were inseparable!

Baptism of Letitia Reece

Pictures with Neil, the Godfather (right) and Aunt Stacey, the Godmother (left). Aunt Tisha (her namesake) is with her next to the cake she made. The ceremony was beautiful. Father Gahan officiated.

4 months today

Reece is 4 months today. She's doubled her birth weight and can hold her head up. She's nursing and I'm getting ready to start her on cereal. Can't believe how fast this is going.

Easter Morning

Easter was one of my favorites as I remember mom dressing us in new outfits, going to church and the rest of the family coming to a big dinner. I also remember coloring eggs with mom, waking up early to see dad hiding them (sorry dad) and the anticipation of making that first big bite into a chocolate bunny! YUM!! While those days are gone, I intended to carry on the tradition. So...we went to church and while I did not plan the matching outfits, I thought it was cute the way it turned out. Pete found something in his closet to match. We ate brunch on Main Street and later cooked a special dinner. It was a GREAT EASTER.