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!