It's A Wonderful Life

2009-07-17T21:58:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY KAYLA (a.k.a Toddles)

Wow, our baby is 3... With Kayla I felt like I never really had a tiny little baby for more than a just few months. Born at 8lbs 5oz 21 1/2 inches long, she started off plump! At her Dr. appointment I was told if she continues to grow at this rate she will be 5' 9"... Seriously her daddy is only 5' 10".

Kayla has so many strong quality's that will last her a lifetime! She is extremely out spoken and tells is how it is, she will just blurt out whatever is on her mind. Ex: just the other night I was putting her down to bed, in the middle of summer mind you, and as I was leaving she said: "mommy, I really need to go out in the snow and build me a snowman". I will always now what is on her mind, this will come in handy when she is a teenager!

Kayla is very independent, she will play with herself and her imaginary fiend's for hours. Go ahead and ask her what their names are... Cajun, Shirley, Pho Pho, Sal, Cal,

I try and jot things down that my kids say... Back in February, I bought Kayla a hot chocolate, she drank it down so fast and at the end when it was all gone, you could hear the slurping sound. She handed me the cup and looked at me with her big brown eye and said; "mama, that is a sad sound"!

Her sister Ella is pretty special in the world of Kayla! She really looks up to her and loves to play with her all the time, sometimes she is kind of a bully and puts Ella into tears, but for the most part they are the best of friends!

Kayla has a very tender spot, especially for her mama, if she does something she is not suppose to do, you can't raise your voice at her or she will fall apart,on the other hand she is a little !@#$ and is always doing something she is not suppose to do.... I am really worried for her poor teacher when she starts school!

Besides Kayla loving to be naked ALL the time and getting in trouble ALL the time, she is quit talented. She is our entertainer, she is very theatrical and plays the part of almost anything on demand! She loves to sing, act, dance you name it. If she gets caught putting on her own little show, she will step it up a notch just for you! Unlike most kids who would shy down, not Kayla!

She is obsessed with getting a dog or a kitty, she used to be scared to death of animals now she loves them! Her and her sister play puppy all the time, leashes and all. Her imagination is endless, you will always find her coming up with different playful games and ideas for make believe!

Kayla loves to give her daddy a hard time all for a good tickle! Uncle Joel, Papa, phoo phoo are names she will call him to get a reaction and he gives her one, usually it constists of a really long tickle followed by hugs and kisses!

On her birthday she recieved her very first hair cut! She was such a big girl, she did everyhting she was told, sat still and felt like a princess!

For her 3rd birthday she wanted to have the My Little Pony theme, so of course we did and she loved it! She asked for the American Girl Itty Bitty Twins set and rollerskates! She is a girl who knows what she wants!

For her friends birthday party we got a large bouncy house that weighed over 200lbs... She LOVED it! It was defiantly a hit with all the kiddos!

What a kick she is, we couldn't imagine life without her and even through the unbearable times we are gratful for her every single day! Love you toddles!

Kayla
You're my little love bug,

my cuddly kangaroo

My Funny Bunny, sweet as honey

You're my wiggly worm My busy little bee My silly goose, moosey-moose My monkey up a tree

You're my ice cream sandwich, my watermelon gum My soda pop, my lollipop My yummy yummy yum!

You're my Lovey Dovey My stinker winker bear My silly willy piccadilly alligator stare!

You're my bowl of cherries, my toast with berry jam

My snicker doodle, chicken noodle WHAT A LITTLE HAM!

You're my tootsie wootsie

My squishy wishy cheeks My tickle toes,

button nose, giggles. squeals and squeaks!

But most of all what you are is God's sweetest gift of LOVE!

We Love you Kayla Marie!!!

2009-06-10T21:46:00.000-07:00

HAPPY PRESCHOOL GRADUATION ELLA

Today was such a special day for Ella, she graduated from Preschool and is on her way to Kindergarten! The weather was nothing but perfect and she was able to share this day with friends and family! Thank you Mrs. Suzanne for making this year amazing! Ella learned so much and has grown in so many ways! Way to go Ella, you make us so proud!

2009-05-27T20:37:00.000-07:00

The Innocence of a Child

Kayla fell the other day, as I picked her up to go bandage it I tried to comfort her by telling her that she just got a little raspberry on her knee. Little did I realize, she took that into her brain processed it and now believes that if she eats a raspberry it will cause another sore on her knee. My 2 1/2 year old WILL NOT eat raspberry's any more, her once favorite fruit no longer... OOPS, way to go mom!!!

2009-03-22T20:57:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ELLA

Ella Marie Barrett, our baby is now 5. Words can't express how much Ella has blessed our lives. She has given a new meaning to the word perfect for our family! She has moved from never talking and saying mama and dada every once in awhile, to calling us dude and dudette over night!

Ella is such a great example to everyone she comes in contact with. She reminds us to stay calm and look at the big picture, she teaches her sister something new everyday and she stands strong with her friends if she knows they are doing wrong. She uses her please and thank yous and is always making sure we all tell each other how much we love one another!

Ella's favorite thing is school and swimming. She is in Super Eel and swimming all by herself with no life jacket, she is our little fish. She is so eager to learn, she comes home from school and wants to immediately work out of her kindergarten preparedness book. She can read the first five B.O.B books and is such a talented little artist. Ballet is right up there with her favorites, every Friday we go to twirl and tap with Miss Amber. She is going to be in her first recital this June!

My favorite phrase of hers is "are you serious"! She looks at me with her big blue eyes and I swear she's 30...

She has started a little diary and there is a combination of things, but mostly you will find random words that she thinks of and writes out, I spell more words in one day then I have in months!

Eye spy has got to be her most favorite game in the car, we play it every morning on the way to school, she makes sure Kayla has turn even though she has no idea what she is doing!

I have got to say that our family dance parties are the best, we shake our booty and groove forever! Daddy uses some of his super moves with the girls and Ella is always the leader.

Ella is such a great helper around the house, she takes the garbage out, makes her own bed, cleans up hers and Kayla's messes. When she spills something, half the time I don't even know until I step in a bit of a sticky spot. She heads over to get a towel and fixes without thinking twice. She folds laundry and sets the table for dinner. Joe land I decided that she is ready for an allowance, she has made enough to by a little bath tub for her baby!

For her 5Th Birthday Ella wanted a Little Mermaid themed party. We had her Friends birthday party on Saturday and it was all decked out in Little Mermaid, she even wore her Little Mermaid costume from Halloween. She actually went as far as naming her new American Girl doll "Ariel".

For her family party at home on her Birthday, she made sure everything was just right, the presents were all lined up, the balloons were just perfect, the cake had to have a "swipe of the finger test" to check the quality. As every night, we were all assigned seats at the dinner table!

For her school party she was a bit nervous; we made her a poster of pictures that she decorated beautifully. She was able to bring 5 things for sharing time and was the Special Person for the day! When it was time for her to get up and talk about her picture board and all her sharing she was right on her game! She broke out of that shell and illuminated as a 5 year old would!

There is nothing like watching your children grow and change each day! Milestones like this make you stop and think about all the changes that have taken place. Ella heads of to Kindergarten this fall and is determined to ride the bus! I am so excited for her to open up that new chapter in her life and can not wait to share that with her! She is our shining star!!!

Ell’s

You're my little love bug, my cuddly kangaroo
My Funny Bunny, sweet as honey
All of this is true!

You're my Punkin Wumkin, my peaches and my pie

My bread-and-butter peanut butter

Apple of my eye!

You're my wiggly worm
My busy little bee
My silly goose, moosey-moose

My monkey up a tree

You're my ice cream sandwich, my watermelon gum

My soda pop, my lollipop

My yummy yummy yum!

You're my Lovey Dovey

My stinker winker bear

My silly willy piccadilly alligator stare!

You're my bowl of cherries, my toast with berry jam

My snicker doodle, chicken noodle

What a little ham!
You're my tootsie wootsie

My squishy wishy cheeks
My tickle toes, button nose, giggles. squeals and squeaks!
You're everything that's wonderful

You're all of the above!

But most of all what you are is God's sweetest gift of LOVE!
We Love you Ella Marie!!!

2009-03-16T20:57:00.000-07:00

BRRRR...

Yes, it is true. We got snow on March 15th. I know, those of you in No Dak are laughing... However, for us tree huggers out here in Washington it is so not normal! I dressed the girls in their spring dresses for church with snow outside, but they got over it and made the best of it!
I did put jackets on them....:)

2009-03-13T21:50:00.000-07:00

I'M BACK...

WOW, It has been a long time since I have blogged. So much has happened in our little world. I have posted just a few of the fun times.

2009-03-13T21:30:00.000-07:00

Fire Station Field Trip & Brandon's Birthday Party

It has been a month of fun filled activities for the girls.
Ella's school took a field trip to the local fire station, those are always so much fun! I took Kayla on this one since she is fascinated by fire trucks. Where is she in all the pictures you ask??? Well, for some reason miss social turned into miss anti-social and hid under my jacket the entire time... Oh well there is always next year for little miss sunshine!!! Of course Birthday parties are always the best, one of Ella's friends from school has a dress-up costume party. You would think my 4 year old would want to dress up as a princess, no she chose to be a flapper girl???... But, my little flapper girl rocked at tug-of-war and was the first one to knock the candy out of the Pinata'!!

2009-03-13T21:19:00.000-07:00

FAMILY
When it comes down to it, there is nothing better than FAMILY...

My cousin and his family came for a visit from North Dakota for a week.

It was all play and fun, never stop, yet so relaxing!

Thanks for the great memories Tom, Trish and Kamden :)

2009-03-13T21:13:00.000-07:00

LOVE DAY
A day my hubby thinks is pointless, for you should show your endless love everyday... He is so sweet :) We celebrated anyway!!!!

2009-01-20T21:24:00.000-08:00

QUALITY COUPLE TIME

There's nothing like totally diggin' your husbands hobby... I guess my roots shine through on this one! I especially LOVE the flaming helmet!

2009-01-14T20:23:00.000-08:00

JOEL...JOEL...JOEL... WE ALL LOVE JOEL!

2009-01-06T20:45:00.000-08:00

Courtesy Papa...

We had a wonderful, relaxing, white Christmas!!!

2009-01-01T10:22:00.000-08:00

Spending The Night At Gaga's

2008-12-28T21:04:00.000-08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS MORNING

2008-12-10T20:52:00.000-08:00

TRADITIONS

Every year my mom and I get together and bake Christmas cookies all day. Usually my Grandma is with us and helping make them perfect. This year she was not, she was in our hearts though! Ella and Kayla made it a very fun, interesting, active day! We whipped out 18 dozen and had a blast! MMM yummy...

2008-11-24T20:58:00.000-08:00

PRE-Turkey Day celebration at Moms!!!

It is always a hoot when we go to moms for a holiday celebration! Dad brings the yummy pies, we bring the monster children and mom makes a yummy traditional meal that we can't go without every year! There is never a dull moment and Joel is totally getting into all of our traditions we have for each holiday! The after turkey dinner walk was actually his idea this year!

2008-11-12T15:33:00.000-08:00

LESSON LEARNED

I have learned a very important lesson this past week... Never leave you keys in the car, no matter what! Monday I was bringing home Kayla and addi, pulled into my garage, got out of the car shut my door and went to open the back door to get the babies out. The doors were locked, for some reason the doors locked on me??? I had a rental and it didn't have On Star. Long story short, the sheriff was here two fireman and no luck. Finally, 1hr. 15min later a locksmith came and unlocked the door. The babies were sooo sacred and were so happy to get out! The firemen were so great and supportive, they didn't need to stay, but they did and broke two blood pressure cuffs trying to break into the car! I can totally laugh about now, but I felt horrible.

I wrote a letter to their cheif recoignizing them and this is the picture I sent with it! Love learning lessons, just not at other peoples (kiddos) expense...

2008-11-05T20:27:00.000-08:00

COOLEST PICTURE EVER!

This is courtesy my dad, he took this picture of Joel pressuring washing his roof. Wow, love this picture!

2008-11-03T20:33:00.000-08:00

Halloween 2008

What a beautiful day it turned out to be for some Halloween fun! It was a busy day going from school party to downtown Gig Harbor to moms party back out trick-or-treating! The girls looked adorable and did so good!!! We got lots and lots of candy, that Mr. garbage grouch got at the end of night! Hope you all had a spooktacular Halloween!

2008-10-19T14:44:00.000-07:00

FAMILY PUMPKIN PATCH AND CARVING!

Each year we go to Pattersons Market to get our pumpkin, they have the funnest stuff there for the kids, not to mention a huge selection of pumkins! I think the girls love the bouncy toy the best, they could bounce on that all night! We went with our new fashionable Cutie Patooties from Gaga Debbie (thank you) and had a blast!!!

Don't ask, its just Ella being Ella!!!

2008-10-19T14:28:00.000-07:00

PUYALLUP PUMPKIN PATCH

Stepping Stones Preschool took a trip out to a pumpkin patch in puyallup. It is also a live farm with all sorts of animals! Kayla was able to come and meet her preschool teacher for next year, yikes Kayla is preschool is a scary scary thought... Most all the kids loved the sawdust hill the best! We took our pumpkins and headed home!

2008-10-19T14:16:00.000-07:00

ELLA'S FIRST SLEEPOVER!!!

Ella went to her very first sleepover the other night, of course you never know what to expect, maybe a call at 2am to go pick her up or maybe she will change her mind once she gets there... You never know, but Ella did amazing. She spent the night with her best friend Jenna, they had such a good time and Ella made it through the night with fyling colors! I am so proud of her for being so brave she is growing up way too fast for me.

2008-10-19T14:02:00.000-07:00

OCEAN SHORES... AGAIN!!!

We just had to take another trip to Ocean Shores, the girls loved the sand and everything about the Ocean. This time we took Gaga and Papa with us, Ella and Gaga went up the night before and stayed in a hotel, they literally swam in the hotel pool the entire time... Kayla, Joel, Papa, and I met them the next morning, we drove the beach played in the sand in between wind storms and shopped alot to keep safe from the crazy weather! All-in-all it was a blast.

2008-10-04T21:47:00.000-07:00

ELLA IN HER NEW GLASSES!!!

2008-09-23T20:30:00.000-07:00

30, not so bad...

I have to admit, turning 30 was pretty awesome! A killer party, groovy gifts and no wrinkles popped up over night! I had a really good day, it started with presents and time with my family, it developed into and awesome (somewhat surprise) party, very well planned by mom and Joel, who tried really hard to be a party planner ( I love you honey)!!! I got some amazing gifts, including the first 9 years of my life beautifully scrapbooked by my mom, who says the other 21 are still to come. What an unforgettable gift! Thanks dad for being the photographer and running around last minute to help with everything ( a jack of all trades) and to everyone else who helped with my special day!!! Including Dr. Papa and Nana for watching the girls and giving them thousands of things to tell mommy and daddy!

Family, is the best part of a birthday!

Present are a great start to turing 30!

All the little touches that made my day special!

Let the party begin!

Lets cut the cake, I mean 1 cake and 2 peanut butter pies!!!

2008-09-20T20:50:00.000-07:00

PRE 30TH...

My family took me to my FAVORITE resturant ever, yes Pizza Hut! This was my pre 30th dinner! Yummy, yummy, yummy, it was soooo good!

2008-09-14T21:18:00.000-07:00

Ella's First Day of Pre-K

You are getting so big Ella, we are so proud of you, good luck in your new big girl class!!!

2008-09-12T20:45:00.000-07:00

Daddy Daughter Date Night!!!

Joel took Ella out for dinner to Anthony's to kick off her new school year and the had a blast, as usual! Ella had the copper Ricer Salmon with potatoes. Before dinner Joel ordered them an appetizer of baby shrimp and Ella thought that was her dinner she devoured it... What an awesome daddy and a very well deserving Ella!!!

2008-09-08T21:25:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JOEL

What a fun day, gourmet hamburgers (per Joel's request), yummy DQ Oreo cake, Joel's favorite besides apple pie and lots of fun presents! His birthday was a success! Personally my favorite part was decorating his truck with balloons and lots of loving touches!!!

We love Joey!!! :)

2008-09-01T20:30:00.000-07:00

PORTLAND

We took an overdue trip down to Portland to see Debbie and Rick and what better time then the weekend before Joel's birthday!!! We had a wonderful time and of course the girls didn't want to leave Grandma Debbie's and Grandpa Ricks play land!!!

Family is the greatest!

Play time, all the time!!!

Creations

Just hangin' out time

More play time, all the time!

Many yummy yummy creations!

Cousin love!!!

2008-08-27T21:38:00.000-07:00

BEST DADDY EVER... NOT TO BE PARTIAL OR ANYTHING!

Ella and Kayla wanted a sail boat like Caillou on PBS sprout. Well, daddy took that and ran with it! I was on a balsa wood mission for over a week. Joel (Mr.OC, love him to death) does nothing on a small scale, these are going to be the best sail boats ever!

2008-08-23T19:55:00.000-07:00

ROCK STAR

Ella went to a rock star birthday party on Thursday and had a blast... She got her hair and makeup done and got all dressed up. She was a hit on the cat walk, they grow up way to fast. Miss sassy thinks she is 30 now and needs her convertible bug and her own make-up drawer!!!

2008-08-22T14:20:00.000-07:00

PAPA THE PUPPET MAN

Ella and Kayla wanted to put on a puppet show, so Papa made them a stage! They worked together and created a masterpiece... Papa's are the best and our little girls have the best papa ever, just ask them they'll tell ya!!!

2008-08-18T14:00:00.000-07:00

Family Vacation to Ocean Shores!

Click here to view larger

2008-08-05T21:42:00.001-07:00

You Are Ariel!

Headstrong and fiesty. You have a mind of your own that's full of romantic dreams about the world around you. Exploring exotic places is your ultimate dream, and although you can be a little naive you'll realize that there is something to be gained from your family's wisdom.

Which Disney Princess Are You?

2008-08-04T20:36:00.000-07:00

ONLY THE BEST INTENTIONS...
Joel and I decided that it was time to start our kids on the path of mountain biking, we both love it so much that we want it to be another little family activity! Ella went full guns-a-blazin'. She has loved to ride bike since she was two and is really good at it! Kayla not taking to it so well, she is a precious flutter bug and wants to do what Kayla wants to do, so she rode her Winnie the pooh thingy instead. She might be a little harder to convert to mountain biking, but regardless we had a really fun time!!!

Getting the bikes ready to go...

And we're off....

2008-07-23T21:24:00.000-07:00

FAREWELL AVA

At 4 it is always easy to make a friend, but a little more confusing and upsetting to say goodbye to one. Today we had Ella's friend Ava over one last time before her and her family moved to California. The two girls play very well together and have a lot in common from food allergies, to being in charge of every situation! They are both great kids and we hope that WHEN Ava and her family move back the girls can pick up where they left off! Good luck Niazi family with everything and we will miss you.

2008-07-21T20:10:00.000-07:00

THE NIGHT BEFORE

Tomorrow is a big day for Ella, and she had a little bit of the jitters. Ella is going in for a controlled allergy test for eggs tomorrow, so Joel and I tried to make the night before as distracting as possible. It was FHE anyway so we had a lesson after we enjoyed Ella's favorite dinner, tacos! We then made homemade cantaloupe sorbet and jumped on the trampoline, played played and played some more! She still doesn't really get why she is going to eat the thing that has been avoid for her whole 4 years, but I think it will all turn out OK.?!

2008-07-20T13:43:00.000-07:00

Mini-Hawks Camp

This past week Ella participated in a program called Sky Hawks and learned how to play baseball, soccer and basket ball. She had a really good time and did really well, I think she shined in basketball, I know weird huh??? She was stellar at making baskets and dribbling! She was a bit shy, but I would have been to being the only girl on the team! I am so proud of her! On Friday they had a tournament and scrimmaged against the older kids in all three sports, the little kids held their own! Way to go Ella!!!

BASEBALL

BASKETBALL

SOCCER

JUST GOOFIN' AROUND

2008-07-16T20:23:00.000-07:00

THE CREATIVE MIND OF A 4 YEAR OLD

This morning my Ella woke me up at 6:00 to tell me she wanted to make an instrument out of a water bottle... Giving her complete control of this project I was a bit sceptical as to how it would turn out? To my surprise she created a very creative instrument! She knew what she wanted and she did it! Love that about her, but still not sure where she came up with this idea???

2008-07-15T20:43:00.000-07:00

BROOKE, THE ARBONNE PRO

I had a party for Brooke tonight (technically her 1st party), if you want to consider the 1 guest a "party" I guess I chose a really bad night to have it... Regardless, we made the best of it, Brooke practised her presentation to both Jamie and I and she did so good, I love how comfortable she was and had so much good stuff to say about Arbonne! Her little crafty table was so stinken' cute and decorated very well! She gave me a goody bag full of yummy stuff! Thanks for coming Brooke, even though most all are orders are outside orders I think the party will be successful!

2008-07-14T21:52:00.000-07:00

BIRTHDAY PARTY FOR KAYLA!

A perfect day for a party, we couldn't have asked for better weather! Thanks to everyone who came to share in Kayla's special day, you only turn two once! She will love looking back at all the pictures remembering her fun day!

2008-07-11T22:20:00.000-07:00

PRE SKY HAWKS

Ella is getting ready to "kick"off her week at Sky Hawks camp! She will be learning how to play soccer, baseball and basketball, it is all week long with Friday as her tournament day! We can't wait to see how well she does, as her "un-biased" parents we think she has an advanced skill for both baseball and soccer. So, in order to highlight this we went out and bought her a high quality Dora baseball mitt and ball and a pink soccer ball to start practising. She really showcased her stuff tonight after getting back the pro shop "target"!

Look at that arm... The mitt has GOT to smell just right!

Her BIGGEST fan!

Wow, that is some POWER, look at that form...

2008-07-10T22:28:00.000-07:00

TOOTLES TURNS 2

I was the coolest mom for making Mickey Mouse pancakes, I never said I was BIG on presentation...

Kayla opened her build-a-bear that Ella made for her and gave a kiss of thanks!

On your special day you always have to stop to smell the flowers and pose with sissy!

Off to the zoo we go!!!

The hit of the day was the tramploine from Gaga and Papa!!! The pink bike from mom and dad was pretty cool, because it was pink!

Then came the Mickey cake, wow what a hit!

Daddy doing the dishes from the day, thanks daddy!

2008-07-07T13:17:00.000-07:00

INDEPENDENCE DAY

2008-07-02T13:40:00.000-07:00

KNOW ANYONE WHO NEEDS A HOME IN WASHINGTON???

Those of you who know us, know that Joel build this home... Therefore enough has been said! Lots of TLC has been put into it and it it needs new ownser who will take good care of it!!!

2008-06-24T21:01:00.001-07:00

UTAH

It has been forever since I have blogged... I don't even know where to start. We have been crazy crazy busy getting ready to put our house on the market and finally did that, we rewarded ourselves with a trip to Utah to see family! Now that we are back life has slowed down tremendously and our Utah trip was a BLAST!!! Between us all we shot 1226 pictures, so to say the least we all have a lot to go through, but I wanted to do a quick post with my favorite group picture. It was a non-stop trip that created many fun memories that will last forever. trampoline, water blow-up slide, crazy amounts of sand, water park, BBQ, Park City with yummy yummy food, BYU campus, Happy Happy baby Hailey, Tay Tay and Kayla brawls, Canyon cousin pictures, river wild, Aunt Shauna story times, parade, Auntie's toe nail painting, Captain Jack arrrr maties, Temple Square, outdoor mall, dancing water, Grandma and Grandpa Haws visit, the list goes on but touches on the highlight! Thank you so much Utah crew for making it an amazing vacation and we already miss you!

2008-05-28T14:41:00.001-07:00

MEMORIAL DAY

2008-05-23T21:14:00.000-07:00

Alderbrook Spa and Resort

A night at this amazing place was my mommy's Day gift from the girls and my gift to my mom! Wow, it was so relaxing and refreshing! Our adventure started on Thursday afternoon, we drove there and spent a very relaxing and pampered night! Woke up to a beautiful water and mountain view, then headed over to our 90 min. Swedish massage! It was wonderful! Joel took Friday off and had some special Ella and Kayla time swimming, going to the park, and cruisen' around in daddy's truck! I'm sure they all stayed up way to late on thursday night, but that's the funnest part!!!

2008-05-18T19:59:00.000-07:00

Finally, the nice weather has hit Washington... You never know how long it will last so you need to make the best of it and get outside! We started on Thursday with a day of sprinkler!

Friday and Saturday was the big neighborhood garage sale in Henderson Bay, Ella had her first lemonade stand and made $8.00! Joel worked like crazy to start buttoning up the deck and we got our bark spread our waterfall running and the back yard ready for topsoil! We ended the day with yummy roasted marshmallows, Ella hated them and Kayla loved them!!!

Yea for the sun, please don't go away, we need our vitamin D here in Washington!!!

2008-05-14T22:24:00.000-07:00

Groovy New Wheels!

It was time for Ella to get a new bike, she rides her bike everyday and her old one was just getting too small. So, I called Joel up to see what he thought about it and of course Mr. mountain bike professional had a lot to say about the whole thing! He was so excited because he was able to go with us, we dropped Kayla off with Gaga and made it all about Ella. Toys R Us here we come... NO, not if you have Joel for a daddy! Only the best bike for his Ella, aluminum frame this and that that and this, whatever... We ended up going to the local bike shop and getting a killer set up for her. It will last her forever!!! Check her out she thinks she is pretty cool! Of course Kayla got Ella's old bike and couldn't be happier, I love that she is so easy as long as she is doing what sissy is doing her life is great!!!

2008-05-09T21:55:00.000-07:00

WHEN ELMO GROWS UP

On Wednesday, Joel and I took the girls to the Tacoma Dome to see Sesame Street Live When Elmo Grows Up! What a blast... We literally had the best seats in the house! Floor 7 seats 1-4. I mean when the characters came down the stairs from the stage to dance, Ella's seat was about 4 feet from the bottom stair. The girls got more high fives and pats on the head then anyone in the dome! I love making memories like that, they had such a fun time and yes Daddy sprang for the $15 each glow Elmo twirly things... Who knows where they are now!!!

2008-05-06T21:37:00.000-07:00

A Sun-BEAM

2008-05-03T11:26:00.000-07:00

The Best May Day Ever

On May day, I picked Ella up from school and this is how the conversation went:

Ella: You can't look in my back pack today mommy.

Mommy: Why not?

Ella: Beacause, I have a suprise for you. When we get home, you will go inside and I am going to knock on your door and put your present on the front porch, then run and hide. After you open the door I will come back again and knock, then you will know it was me.

Trying not cry...

Mommy: Wow, I can't wait that sounds like so much fun!

We got home and I did as I was told Ella went to the front door and opened her back pack, took out my present, set it on my front door, knocked then scurried away going that way this way. She was so excited she wasn't sure what way to go, she finally hugged up againt the rock wall like she blened in... I answered the door to find a beautiful bouguet of homemade flowers in my favorite colors! Again trying not to cry I shut the door and waited for her to come back and know again. She did, I opened the door and she ssaid:

Ella: It was me mommy and gave me a big hug, I then cried!!!

I love this age so much I try and savor each moment!

2008-04-28T20:12:00.000-07:00

Papa and Kayla

Wow, my uncle sent this picture after he recieved Kaylas picture in the mail... I have heard a million times that Kayla looks just like Papa, but never really thought much of it until I saw this picture. Crazy stuff!

2008-04-27T20:43:00.000-07:00

BUMMER DAY

Today we were headed to the farm in Yelm for Carter and Tyson's baptism. Unfortunately, Joel woke up very very sick, probably as sick as I have ever seen him... Ella was very disappointed that we were no longer going to the farm in our pretties. So, she requested that we build a farm out of blocks. Love the simplicity of a child!

Sorry we missed your special day Carter and Tyson, but our thoughts were with you both!

2008-04-24T20:36:00.000-07:00

Crazy Hat Day

I have to admit that Ella's was the best hat there she looked like a big oreo cookie! Love her...

2008-04-21T21:23:00.000-07:00

SPRING FAIR

2008-04-19T16:43:00.000-07:00

Target, target, target...

I sadly must admit, we visit Target often and the return area is always our first stop! My kids treat it as there second home, as soon as we walk in they grab a seat and a snack!!!

2008-04-13T20:09:00.000-07:00

POST 100...

Saturday was a work day for this Barrett family, Joel was workin' hard on the deck, the girls and I got busy beautifying the front yard and dad stepped in to help stabilize my new step system!!! What a productive day, the girls had a blast being outside ALL day long, it got up to 73 degrees, a record thus far! Love the sun, so in the wrong state :)

A perfect ending to a perfect day! One of Ella's friends is moving to Colorado and had a going away party at Pump-it-up! What a blast, all the kids had so much fun and Kayla and Addison kept up with the big kids just fine... The adults got a great work out and ate some yummy cake at the end! Thanks Carolyn for a fun evening, we will miss you!!!

2008-04-08T21:54:00.000-07:00

SLEEPING BEAUTY

I know, crazy mommy taking a picture of a sleeping baby who never really even sleeps. I couldn't help it... My baby is not really a baby anymore, I mean look at her she is like 9 feet tall. I can't help but be sad that my girls are growing up so fast, yet be super happy and grateful for each new stage. Kids are the best, I really have been kind of a mean mom lately, with their new evolving stages, but it is pictures like this that make you stop and re-evaluate how bad they really are and their not so bad!!! Love you Kayla Marie, stop growing up so stinkin fast...

Love her desire to dress herself , sissy's hat, sissy's boots and her new swimsuit make a fabulous spring combo.

2008-04-05T20:20:00.000-07:00

Day 2

We didn't get as much done as we wanted, but wow this is more than I actually expected. Joel was a one man show with some extra help from my mom of course! The girls had a blast playing outside while their new deck was being built!!! It actually turned out to be a really nice day. Joel built some crazy stuff in order to make it work without bringing in extra bodies... Can't wait till it's all done to enjoy!

Thanks Mom!

Silly Daddy! Taking a break!

Little helper!

So far so good...

2008-04-04T21:07:00.000-07:00

We have been going like crazy to get our house ready to sell! It's looking really really good, but the projects of all projects is our deck... We have been wanting a deck since we moved in, but there is always something more important to do! Finally, we are getting our deck. We designed it just the way we want and hope the family that buys our house enjoys it as much we are going to try before we have to move. Yes, Joel is working hard, it is 9pm and we hope to have it up by end of day tomorrow!

2008-04-01T20:37:00.000-07:00

This is the time of day I look forward to the most!!!

2008-03-31T21:42:00.000-07:00

Spring Is In The Air, Just Not In Washington...

We are trying to welcome Spring and get into that outdoor springy fun... Wasn't too bad out, but as you can see we are in our jackets and SNOW hats :( It will get there, we just need to be patient...

Happy Spring anyway!!!

2008-03-29T19:29:00.000-07:00

Stand up to your obstacles and do something about them. You will find that they haven't half the strength you think they have.

If you find a path with no obstacles, it probably doesn't lead anywhere. I used to be embarrassed about my 3 year old still having a binky and found great comfort when I came across another parent who dealt with the same obstacle. I quickly learned that there is an obstacle in every Child's life whether big (an illness or defect) or small (a staple that is hard to get rid of). I realized that this was no big deal, so my perfect Ella wasn’t perfect… Who is? I turned the energy I was using for being ashamed into positive, helping, understanding and loving energy toward Ella! In a year-in-half we went from binky all the time to binky only to fall asleep!!! Ella is very determined so it was hard and frustrating for her when throwing it in the garbage was not enough, she and I realized that this was more then a prop but a true habitual staple in her life… We worked on it and worked it and worked on it… I became quit witty with the psychology of banning the binky. Long long story short, Ella turned 4 and was now a "big girl", Ella had to do it for Ella! It took Gaga Debbie to visit and tell her how excited she was for Ella to come to Portland and spend the weekend with her! I told Ella, not until the binky is gone, that night she did it she conquered her obstacle and was SO proud of herself. A few days later she tied it to a balloon bouquet and let it go! An emotional time for us all, but she at 4 years old prevailed a fight within herself, something that takes many adults years to do! We are so proud of her and she is still getting used it, but is doing very very well!

We love you Ella, you are such a big brave girl and Gaga Debbie here she comes!

2008-03-27T22:10:00.000-07:00

A much needed visit from Mom, Mom Debbie, Gaga, Grandma Disneyland... We love it when she comes to town and the kids couldn't have been happier. It was a fabulous night for Tay, Ella and Kayla some overdue cousin time with nonstop fun!!! Three is not so bad?!?!?! :) TeHe (J.K)

2008-03-26T13:52:00.000-07:00

I've been "bag tagged" so here it goes...

My wallett with all my credit cards, costco card, reward cards and NO cash... Cell phone, calculator, pen, brush mirror compact, mini lysol spray, hand sanitizer/lotion, stride gum, altoids mints, pouch with finger nail clipper, hair ties, tampon, nail file, tweezers, chapstick, leatherman, eye drops and of course my coupon corner, love those money saving coupons. I am that lady that stands in line digging for every possible coupon I could use.

That was fun, I now tag... Mom, Missy, Melissa, Aunt Shirl, Diana

2008-03-25T21:40:00.000-07:00

HAPPY EASTER

All we really need is love, but chocolate bunny's don't hurt every once in awhile!!!

2008-03-21T12:30:00.000-07:00

Thank you Gaga Debbie and Papa Rick for the awesome gift! I actually waited from the time I got my present from you until my Birthday to open it ( a full 5 days)!!! I play with my Wedgits all the time! It is fun for the whole family!!!

I love you and miss you both and can't wait to see you soon!

Love, Ella

2008-03-19T20:28:00.000-07:00

HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY ELLA,
4 LOOKS GOOD ON YOU!

What a special day for a special little girl. It was a crazy busy day packed full of Birthday fun! She started with school, yummy treats from Baskin Robins, show & tell (her Build-A-Bear of course), a birthday serenade from her class, a nap (wow, I can't believe it either), some water balloon fun with gaga & papa, play, play, play, her favorite taco dinner and then of course present and some more presents followed by a yummy cake! She even got to stay up late to enjoy her new gifts! Thanks to everyone who helped plan and create Ella's special day!

2008-03-19T20:22:00.000-07:00

Thank You Dr. Papa, Nana, Tara & Carissa for the fun Birthday Party on Sunday!

I loved my presents!!

2008-03-16T20:28:00.000-07:00

HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU...

BUILD-A-BEAR WAS ON ELLA'S MIND THE WHOLE WEEK, SHE WAS SOOOO EXCITED TO BUILD HER VERY OWN BEST FRIEND WITH ALL HER FRIENDS! OF COURSE WE HAD TO FINISH IT OFF WITH ELLA'S FAVORITE RESTAURANT RED ROBIN... ROUND ONE FOR THE BIRTHDAY GIRLS 4TH BIRTHDAY! STAY TUNED FOR MORE PARTY FUN:)

RED ROBIN

2008-03-12T14:40:00.000-07:00

Ella's First Visit To The Fire Station

She has been learning about fire safety in school this month and they took their first field trip to the fire station! It was a fun filled morning, as we were pulling into the station they got called away on an emergency. Ella immediately said; "mommy we shouldn't go they are busy helping mommy's have babies" as we all know Ella is very cautious in her world, the sirens and speeding truck frightened her and made her nervous. Once we got inside she had a really good time, she actually hopped up into the fire truck to take a look, of course it took watching all her little girlfriends do it first, but hey whatever works!!! As soon as we were done with the fire truck they got another call and had to leave very quickly, I think it was good for the kids to see how important it is to be timely when you are a fire fighter. The kids were swept to the back very quickly so the truck could leave... All-in-all it was great, Ella learned a lot and now can STOP.DROP.ROLL, and she also has been practicing dialing 911 (with a pretend phone, of course)…

2008-03-05T21:40:00.000-08:00

WE LOVE OUR TUTU'S, BEANIES & BOWS!!!

Thank you Gaga Debbie for the beautiful tutu's, beanies and bows the girls loved them, wore them ALL night and wanted to go to bed in them! You do such amazing work, we are so lucky to have such a great mom and Gaga!

2008-03-04T22:23:00.000-08:00

Kayla Being Kayla

You Try And Figure Her Out...

GOOD LUCK!!!

2008-03-02T12:31:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Dr. Papa

It's always fun getting together to celebrate a birthday!!! Cake, presents and good company! Thanks Dr. papa for giving us a reason to get together and celebrate! You don't look a year older and wow you are in really good shape, (do I get my daughter-in-law points for the year?).

2008-02-25T20:46:00.000-08:00

Kayla's Turn...

Just Another Day at Papa's

2008-02-21T19:24:00.000-08:00

I MINNESOTA

Going on vacation is the best, coming home and stepping back into reality is the worst... We went to Minneapolis on Valentines day and stayed five fun filled nights at the Raddison water park resort! We never left our 2 mile radius of the hotel and the Mall of America! It was a relaxing, jammed packed trip!

We wasted no time, getting the kiddos acquainted, introduced Kutter to baby dolls, sorry Terry and watching Kamden amaze us at all he can do!!!

The sentimental, emotional and marvelous part of the trip was when mom gave Tom and Trish the scrapbook she made for them of the indescribable birth of their son Kamden. It took her over a year to put together as you can see by the size! More love, dedication and time went into that book then any other ever made! I am sure it is an effort that will go unforgotten for years and years to come!

The water Park was first on our list, of course this is only our first trip there! We walked to the elevator took it down to the first floor and we were there, it was the coolest indoor water park ever!!!

Following our first successful day of play we headed to the hotel restaurant and enjoyed some yummy food! As you can see Kutter had the PB&J sandwich of the year!

It was time to turn in for the night or as we redneck hillbillies say "hit the hay" and get ready to get up and do it all over again!!

Ella was such a big girl sleeping in the bunk bed on the TOP bunk and she never fell out just a few slips, but it created character!!!

GIRL TIME... We took Saturday morning and the five girls, minus Kayla (sorry honey) treated ourselves to some spa pampering. Ella felt pretty special getting her first pedi. at 3, never too early to start!

More water park fun squeezed in before the trip to the mall!

Just hangin' out relaxing before the mall... This is honestly what we did best, relax, let the kids play, eat, eat and eat... The 6 pounds of chips kept us busy the whole time!

This mall is seriously amazing the first trip we spent touring the amusement park inside the mall, the kids busy grabbing courage here and there to go on some of the rides, taking in Lego land and much much more!!!

As if the huge amusement park inside the mall wasn't enough, there was also the world's largest indoor underwater adventure... This was the coolest, you actually felt like you were underwater swimming with all these different fish and sea creatures! I think Ella's face describes it all!

The time has come to say goodbye to the North Dakota crew, it won't be the same with out you guys, we had a blast and will miss you the remaining of our trip... Lets try and get our first and last pictures of the kiddos together, you think they all can look cute at the same time??? You be the judge!

The only consitancy that I see is my devil daughters fingers in her mouth... Love her to death, but she is a crazy one!!!

Ella missing her playmates... After a few tears, the fun continued

What better way to cheer up two little girls then a trip to the disney store and a chance to play dress up!!!

Following another fun day of shopping was an adventurist visit to the Rainforest Cafe, yummy!!!

Nothing wraps up a fabulous vacation than the yummiest carmeled apples (yes you do see eight apples and yes they are all gone), a scrumptious fruit tray, a swig of pepsi and a fort made by Gaga!!!

A few last minute pictures to add to our memory book!

We are off, back to Washington...

BUT.... We will be back

Thanks everyone for a fabulous time !!!!

2008-02-14T12:44:00.000-08:00

A LOVEly day so far...

Today is the day we take off for Minnesota and we are so excited! Valentines Day so far consisted of Kayla waking up at 5am, Ella having a sugar filled Valentines Day party at school, packing, cleaning and quicky exchanging gifts! Bye for now, Happy Valentines Day!!!

2008-02-11T19:21:00.000-08:00

WHAT A BLESSING...

My dad and I had the wonderful opportunity to go and listen to Elder M. Russell Ballard a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles speak in a 30min. session before our stake conference! It was packed, we got there about 20min. early and I couldn't believe how many people were already there, we did get good seats though!!! My dad referred to him as a very "wise man", he kept it very simple and to the point, he spoke on our family unit and the sacredness of it, he radiated compassion and dedication, that experience will always be printed in my heart, and I am so grateful for the opportunity to have been in the same room as an apostle. My loving, wonderful and supportive husband stayed home with out sick kids so I could attend, thanks honey your the BEST! I was so grateful that my dad went with me, thank you dad for being so supportive and willing!
Something never to be forgotten!!!

2008-02-07T22:03:00.000-08:00

Just in case you were wondering who the boss is around here...

2008-02-04T20:52:00.000-08:00

IT'S ON.....

Momma Mandy has done it again and through desprate motivation of two crazy kids has created the ultimate blanket fort. Yes...it is so. Ella and Kayla have voted and have crowned their mothers fort the ultimate....The slide into the fort did me in. Well, the challenge has bean issued, the gauntlet has been thrown...the fort challange is on. Stay tuned for upcoming blanket fort postings and we'll see if i can regain my fort building crown.

2008-01-28T20:25:00.000-08:00

HOME MADE ICE CREAM

CREATES HOMEMADE MEMORIES

Nothing says fun, like homemade ice cream! We made very berry strawberry, it was so yummy and fresh what a difference from store bought... We all enjoyed it after the fact especially our Kayla, lover of all sugary sweet food!

2008-01-23T21:21:00.000-08:00

SPECIAL TIME WITH GAGA

Gaga and Ella went to Charlie and the chocolate factory tonight at Harbor Ridge Middle School. She thought it was the greatest thing ever, she ate popcorn till she was sick good thing for grype water and got to stay up till 9:00pm. Wow, how lucky can a little girl get! Thanks Gaga for the fun night!!!

Willy Wonka has bult the greatest and largest chocolate factory in the world. After some of his workers steal his secret recipes, Willy WOnka dismisses his workers and closes the door. For 15 years no on has seen any workers entering or leaving the factory; yet his chocolate candy is still produced and shipped around the world.

One day Willy Wonka realizes that he is getting old and he needs a successor. he devises a plan to open his factory and reveal his secrets to five lucky children, who find golden tickets inside Wonka chocolate bars. the golden tickets are sent around the world and soon four winners are announced. yjere is only one ticket left and Charlie Bucket finds it.

Charlie's Granpa Joe, who once worked in the factory, accompanies Charlie on the tour. The five children, with their parents and Grandpa Joe enter the factory and begin the tourof a lifetime. The business is a living factory with a chocolate waterfall and a river of chocolate that can even accomadate a boat. The trees and grass are edible. Trained squirrels shell nuts for the choclate bars. All the wor in the factory is now done by the Oompa-Loompa tribe, who work for cocoa beans.

Four of the rotten children interact with some of Willy Wonka's fantastic inventions with unfortunate consequences that force them off the tour before it is completed. Charlie is the last child left, and Willy Wonka awards Charlie the greatest prize of all, the keys to the factory.

2008-01-23T14:02:00.000-08:00

The forts of ALL forts!!!

Daddy with his stellar building ability, constructed a child's all-time favorite - a fort! Not just any fort this forts was huge, with a kitchen washer dryer 4 foot ceilings and multi-entry ability! This would easily go for around say.... Two smiles and lots of hugs and kisses! Daddy's are the best :)

2008-01-20T20:26:00.000-08:00

OUR DANCING DIVA...

The video says it ALL!!!

2008-01-17T19:13:00.000-08:00

PIZZA PICNIC

There is nothing better then Monday, we can count on being together as a family having a family home evening lesson and playing playing playing! This Monday we had a pizza picnic, it was very messy but oh so fun! The girls loved it, they ate pizza on the floor in their playroom with all their toys, life is good for our 1 & 3 year old!

2008-01-12T20:39:00.000-08:00

WHO COULD HAVE DONE THIS???

MAYBE KAYLA, THAT LITTLE TURKEY....

MAYBE NOT, MAYBE IT IS............

YES, IT IS MY ALMOST 4 YEAR OLD... WHEN ALREADY IN TIME OUT DECIDED THAT SHE WOULD BECOME AN ARTIST AND USE OUR WALL AS HER CANVAS...

SHE SCRUBBED HER LITTLE FINGERS TO THE BONES AND ACCEPTED HER PUNISHMENT OF "NO ART FOR 2 DAYS" VERY OPENLY. NEVER AGAIN LITTLE MISS ELLA!!!

2008-01-10T20:28:00.000-08:00

Play Dates are the center of our lives...

When a play date is made, I have to wait until that day to tell Ella because she will count how many naps she has left till that day and drive me crazy!!! Kendall and Ella get along so well, they are non-stop and very exhausting together but so much fun. Today we ate lunch played house, tug-of-war, bean bag toss, put a puzzle together, listened to TJ bear tell 3 stories, played with V-tech, on & on & on & on... Thanks for playing today Kendall!

2008-01-09T21:43:00.000-08:00

WE LOVE TO MATCH

Especially when there are shoes involved!

Yes, I know it is only January... BUT, they went to their swim class very stylish!!!

Ella is on her own and does so much more then with mom or dad and Kayla is the girly kickin' kick boxer! So glad to be back in swimming...

2008-01-07T22:07:00.000-08:00

My go go girls

Kayla's Radio Flyer Wagon comes in really handy when the devil children want to trash daddy's trim...

My Christmas present from my mom comes in really handy as well when I want to document my kiddos trashing daddy's trim! Love my new Flip video!!

2008-01-06T20:29:00.000-08:00

BEAMING AS SHE BECOMES A SUNBEAM!

Today was Ella's first day in primary at church, she has been so excited for this day as she prepared to become a sunbeam! When Joel and I picked her up from her class after church she came running out yelling: "we sang child of God, we sang child of God" Why you ask was she so excited about that? Well, We have been practising that song and she knows the whole first verse, I promised her that she would sing that song when she went to primary and would feel so proud that she knew the words! I am so proud of Ella for having such a passion to learn and excel! She is growing up so fast, I can't keep up :) Way to go Ella, dad and I can't wait until you have your first primary program!

2008-01-02T21:21:00.000-08:00

PRE 2008

It's our 3 year tradition to visit ZooLights on New Years Eve, this year was a blast, Kayla wanted to run wild and Ella didn't understand why there wasn't any animals to see (as she does every year)... We went round and round on the merry-go-round, looked at the fish, had some hot cocoa and called it a night! After getting home we brought in 2008 at 7:59 with the kiddos then again at 11:59 after a couple games and a few sugar filled root beers.

2008

Nothing says Happy New Year then a few home made pizzas! The girls had so much fun making their own pizzas on News Years Day with Gaga and Papa! Ella made her pizza with pepperoni, green peppers and mushrooms! Kayla put on Canadian bacon, turkey, green peppers and mushrooms!

2007-12-28T22:18:00.001-08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM OUR HOUSE TO YOURS...