The Always Entertaining Ernsts

Sister Storytime

2011-07-17T21:36:00.003-05:00

Kaylee, now the Author. She came home on Friday with a book she wrote. We were very impressed with the folded piece of paper with letter "E"s inside. But we were most impressed with the 5 minute story that she tells you while reading. Best thing about this book, it has a different ending every time. She reads it to Maddie, which she seems a little confused by it. I think she would prefer eating the piece of paper instead.

Daddy Day Care goes to the Zoo

2011-07-17T21:31:00.003-05:00

While the girls' school was closed over the week of the 4th, Eric took off the week with his broken pinkie. He took the girls to the Austin Zoo, which is more of a endangered animal rescue zoo than for show. Kaylee fed all the animals, which consisted of throwing the food several feet away from the fence. If you don't know yet, she is rather afraid of animals. Oh, the joys. Maddie was a trooper as always.

Kaylee's feeding skills....

To brighten your day....

2011-07-17T21:20:00.004-05:00

"I'll be the mailman, you be the tiger." - Kaylee

"What game is that?" - Mommy

"Mailman, Tiger game" - Kaylee

"Oh." - Mommy

"Chase's Daddy makes beer, it's Strawberry Beer and it is yummy!" (Chase is an imaginary friend)

"Can you verify?" (Mommy/Daddy's work language)

"When Aunt Issa comes over, you & Daddy go on date?" - Kaylee

"No, we stay here as a family. Do you want to play Candyland together?" - Mommy

"Only girls with blonde hair play Candyland. Only Me, Issa, & Madison." - Kaylee

Mommy busts out laughing.

"Don't text anyone that." - Kaylee

"You & Madison will go to San Antonio to stay with Papa & Tutu." - Daddy

"But how will I get back to Austin? I can't drive." - Kaylee

"Will you text Papa & Tutu to come over?" - Kaylee

"Do you want me to back celery & peanut butter in your lunch?" - Daddy

"Yes." - Kaylee

"Blueberries?" - Daddy

"Yes." - Kaylee

"Ok." - Daddy

"It's going to be AWESOME!" - Kaylee

Kaylee, The Photographer

2011-07-17T21:09:00.005-05:00

The tables have turned. The girl that didn't like taking pictures is not only asking us to take her picture, but not offering to take pictures. She is completely fascinated with taking pictures. Whats even more entertaining is watching her take millions of pictures in seconds. After each one she take, she quickly looks at the results, laughs, and takes another one. Occasionally, you will hear, "That's a good one."

For your viewing pleasure, pictures taken by Kaylee.

Mommy Daughter Date Night

2011-07-17T21:01:00.003-05:00

Last weekend, Kaylee & I went on a Mommy/Daughter Date Night with 2 Other Mommies & Daughters. Kaylee opted for a pink dress, pink purse, and pink lipstick...this is a date. We started the evening with Italian dinner at Mandola's while the girls feasted on pizza and gelato and the Mommies enjoyed some vino with dinner. Afterwards, we headed to Cafe Monet which is a paint your pottery place. Kaylee picked a special ice cream cone to put all her treasures and I painted a cupcake piggy bank for Maddie. It was lots of fun and I know Kaylee felt extra special to go a such a special date. When we left she asked when her Daddy date and Family date was? Love that girl.

Hide your Wine!

2011-07-17T15:16:00.003-05:00

Maddie's personality has definitely start to thrive! She sees something she wants, she will go after it. Kaylee, at this age, would make other people get things she wanted. I think this is totally 1st/2nd Child syndrome.....2nd Kiddos fend for themselves.

In the situation this weekend, I was just relaxing watching a movie & drinking a glass of wine while holding Maddie. Every time I would raise the glass to take a sip, Maddie would follow it up to my mouth and try to grab it. She was so persistent and that girl is strong! We sure did get a kick out of it!

Introducing Mr. & Mrs. Miller!

2011-07-10T19:49:00.005-05:00

Lindsey & Jeremy got married July 3rd in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. The ceremony was in the breathtaking Thorncrown Chapel and reception was at the haunted old Crescent Moon Hotel. Everything was adorable and very shabby chic...and purple...as Lindsey is. The night ended in dancing to music only my family listens, which I think provided the entertainment. Not to mention, Caitlin's hair that provided the comic relief....Snooki meets Ellie May? xoxo.

And.....Kaylee got to check off Flower Girl off her Bucket List and has offered to be one for anyone's wedding. Words can't express how much she enjoyed being one.

Everyone was wonderful and the happy couple is off to Hawaii! If only we could all go to that! ;)

May Family with Kaylee's Ear Cups

We think we are funny

Papa & Tutu and the kiddos

Happy Couple!

Cute Maddie!

Beautiful Thorncrown Chapel

Awesome

Introducing...the Flower Girl

Ernst Family

Mr. & Mrs. Miller!

All the girls...vision in purple!

Maddie takes a dip in Beaver Lake!

2011-07-10T16:36:00.004-05:00

Once we landed in Arkansas, we headed to Beaver Lake....not to be confused with (Justin) Beiber Lake. The lake was one of the prettiest lakes I've been too. It was huge, refreshing cool water, and calm with barely any boat traffic...even on 4th of July weekend! The kiddos had to wear life jackets, even lil Maddie. Her life jacket was seriously bigger than her and boy, did she get hot. Her face was so red, that I thought it would be best to dunk her in the middle of the lake to cool her off. And she love it! I still can't get over the fact that I dunked my 5 Month in the middle of a lake. I don't think I would ever done that with Kaylee, but 2nd Kiddo....heck yes. Kaylee did great in the water too, however using the lake as the "bathroom facilities" was a rather difficult concept to grasp. Going to have to work on this one....

BTW, poor Eric had to sit on the boat since he couldn't get his cast wet. : (

Love the K's facial expression, no fishies

Mimi & Maddie

I don't know to laugh or cry

May Family in Beaver Lake

Maddie's in the water!

Mommy is crazy!

Some Smiles!

20-Question Car Game

2011-07-10T16:26:00.003-05:00

Both Eric and I played the "20-Questions" game during our childhood family car trips. His family played with with animals and mine played with famous people...typical. How you play is someone picks an animal/famous person in their head and the rest ask yes/no questions to guess the animal/famous person. You have 20 questions to pick it.

We thought we would play the animal game with Kaylee during our long drive to Arkansas. This is how it went down. Eric picked an animal in his head...

"Does it have 2 legs?" Kristen

"No." Eric

"Does it have 3 legs?" Kaylee

"No." Eric

"Does it have 4 legs?" Kristen

"Yes." Eric

"What animal is it?" Kaylee

So...no games lasted too long during the car ride. However, both girls did great sleeping and entertaining themselves. Thank you iPad. Both girls added Oklahoma & Arkansas to the states they've been too. And yes, even Eric got to add Arkansas now!

Good old Arkansas!

Within 24 hours, we had been to the ER, 3 States, and a Casino!

Picture requested by K

Don't Kill Me

2011-07-10T16:05:00.003-05:00

Two Thursdays ago, we were planning to leave for a 10-hour car drive to Lindsey's wedding in Arkansas by 7PM. Eric took-off work to get the fam situation before the trip while I tie some major loose ends up at work. He decided to get a quick Mountain Bike Ride in, before we left. Around 10:45AM, I get the frantic phone call from him, "Don't kill me." Yep, I rushed home to take Eric covered in scratches, dirt, sweat, blood, and a clearly broken pinkie to the Emergency Room. He looked a lot worse than it really was, but my favorite quotes at the ER were: "You can tell you wore a helmet, because it is the only place without blood." & "You THINK it's broken, it's TOTALLY broken."

Few hours in the ER, pain meds, and a cast later...we were good to go. What a way to start the trip, especially now that I have to drive the whole way. But, no I won't kill you.

Eric had surgery this past Friday to put some pins in his hand, everything went well. Now we are in the healing process and will check with the doctor in a few weeks.

After the numbing and the straightening of the pinkie. Imagine it at a 90 degree angle.

Clear break where the pinkie and hand meet.

The Doctor took these pics on my iPhone!

"Don't kill me"

Champagne Wishes

2011-07-10T15:45:00.004-05:00

A few weekends ago, we headed to San Antonio for Lindsey's Bridal Shower at a childhood classic...Apple Auntie's! Kaylee was over the moon excited about the Shower and definitely the little helper. Lindsey was so at ease and comfortable, usually not the case with the any bride! It was rather refreshing. After seeing all the wonderful gifts, I can't help to want to get married again or.....re-do everything in the house! ;) Later we went to the JW Marriott Spa for massages and champagne wishes poolside. If you haven't been yet, it is amazing and highly recommended. The guys can use the PGA golf course, win/win. Lindsey was glowing all day and ended the night dancing rooftop at a typical SA bar in a strip mall, oh yes, that is how we roll.

Signature May Girls picture in the Backyard

May Girls at Lindsey's Bridal Shower

(Never thought I would be bringing two kiddos to this!)

Blushing Bride

Blushing Bride and Blushing Kaylee

Lindsey will be the oldest Flower Girl ever in Kaylee's Wedding

All Smiles

Aunt Caitlin embracing time with Maddie

Champagne Wishes

As Caitlin said, "I could get use to this."

Maddie's New Ride

2011-06-26T22:25:00.001-05:00

Watching Big Sis get a Haircut in a Ferrari!

Beiber Fever

2011-06-26T22:10:00.003-05:00

I honestly thought that the Justin Beiber Fever would had died down by now. Nope, K loves him. Shopping today, we ran into him....or his cut out for his perfume. Justin Beiber perfume, seriously? Kaylee had never been so excited. Later we came home and had a Dance Party to Justin Beiber. We are renting the Justin Beiber movie this week, will let you know how that goes over.

From the words of a 3 Year Old

2011-06-26T22:02:00.002-05:00

"I have allergies. I'm allergic to school."

"When your head gets tired, you got to go to sleep"

"Mommy, I can't get dressed because the monster will see me naked."

"How did Madison get inside and outside of your tummy?" "The Doctor probably used a napkin."

Sees a picture of a Beaver. "Beaver? Justin Beaver, Justin Bieber?" Starts singing Justin Bieber's "Baby".

People sitting on a bench. "Why are the people sitting there? They probably don't have a home. We need to help them."

Father's Day: Man vs Food Edition

2011-06-26T21:51:00.004-05:00

It goes without saying what an amazing Daddy Eric is! Definitely a super Dad!

Father's Day weekend we in San Antonio for some of Lindsey's Wedding Festivities, so Eric embrace the weekend to check on some Man vs Food's restaurants. Big Lou's 42 inch Pizza (opted for the small one) and LuLu's 3 pound Cinnamon Roll. In between, Eric took the girls to check out some breweries and tap rooms. Yep, the girls know more about beer than most 21 year old boys.

We got Eric a new Mountain Bike Shirt, but in record time K spilled the beans. Worked so hard on getting it, then the surprise was done in less than 2 seconds. Got to love it!

We love you Daddy!

Bucket List: Dispatch @ Red Rocks. Check.

2011-06-26T21:25:00.005-05:00

Last year, my favorite band Dispatch announced they were reuniting and going on a Summer Tour in 2011. I said 10 years ago, if Dispatch would ever play again...I'm going. Even better, there first stop was Red Rocks in Colorado. Also on my list of things to do. SO, Dispatch at Red Rocks was a true Bucket List for me. I bought my tickets pregnant and had no idea how it was going to work out, but it had too. It's 2011, Madison is born, just started back at work....so a 48 hour whirlwind was in order to check the experience of a lifetime off my list. Eric, again, best teammate ever as he didn't hesitate taking care of the girls while I head out. I think he understood the importance as he has traveled great lengths for his Grateful Dead! ;) To highlight how this worked: Thursday worked to 11PM, Friday woke up at 3:30AM, Got ready, worked for an hour, flew to dallas, worked on the plane to denver to send some reports, landed in Denver....48 hours begins: Snooze Breakfast, Brew Tour (Rock Bottom, Wynkoop, Falling Rock, Breckenridge Brewery, Flying Dog, Great Divide), amazing pizza, rooftop bar, sleep, shopping (Anthro), lunch Cherry Cricket, rooftop pool, driver picks up, amazing Red Rocks, Best Concert of my life, downtown denver dancing, sleep, fly home. Crazy?

Snooze Breakfast - Mimosas!

Brew Tour

Amazing Beers!

No Monkeying Around

Still Standing

Breathtaking Red Rocks

Amazing experience!

Dispatch - Could not contain myself!

Best Concert of my Life!

Covered Mrs. Robinson in "Outloud" & Buffalo Springfield in "Cut It Ya Match It"

First Barbie

2011-06-12T22:28:00.000-05:00

Kaylee has been saving her money and well, she decided to purchase her first Barbie. It was a tough decision between "Movie Star" Barbie versus "Computer Engineer" Barbie. Ultimately, it came down to the iPhone and Laptop that came with the "Computer Engineer" Barbie. Kaylee wanted to match her Mommy. tear.

Kaylee's 1st Barbie

One Moment she has be teary eyed, then the next.....

Sleep

2011-06-12T09:00:00.000-05:00

Ok, starting to get my life back. ie. Sleep. Haven't got much of that the past 6 weeks.

It's one thing to come back from Maternity Leave, its another to come back to Apple, and it's another to come back to Apple during launch. ;) Not to mention, husband, vibrant 3-yr old, cute 4 Month Old. So....I sacrifice sleep.

Not complaining, just saying I haven't gotten much sleep. But got to sleep this past weekend....so here's to happy blogging.......On that note, time for bed.

Swimming!

2011-06-11T22:23:00.000-05:00

It is 100 degrees and early in the summer.....which means it's Swimming Time!

The swim lessons paid with Kaylee, she is still cautious, but having lots of fun in pool! As for Maddie, I think she can spend the whole day in the water. I'll try to upload a video of her kicking, yes kicking away in the pool!

Happy Swimmer!

Water Baby!

No Comment

The Big 5!

2011-06-10T22:32:00.000-05:00

Eric & I celebrated our 5 year anniversary June 10, 2011!

Kept it simple by going to our favorite Indian Restaurant, Clay Pit....it's kind of tradition at this point. We have been so busy, we really hadn't sat down with just us two. In fact, it was our first date after Maddie was born that didn't involve a wedding or a party. Definitely value our time together much more than 5 year ago. It was so, so very nice.

Eric had taken the girls to pick out a beautiful pair of Pearl Earrings. June's birthstone is Pearl, so surely it can pass for Anniversary too! Not really the type to post pictures of my gifts, but then I think of my great grandma trying to tell me the story behind a piece of jewelry and not remembering who, what, or where. So as a reference point in my Blog Book when I'm 86....Pearl earrings, 5 Year Anniversary, from sweet Husband. ;)

Maddie is 4 Months Old

2011-06-04T22:02:00.000-05:00

Lil Maddie May is 4 Months Old!

Usually I think "Wow, time flys by!", but I'm really thinking "She's only 4 Months Old....she, we have done SO much in 4 Months!"

She is a healthy growing girl! But to our surprise she is only in the 75%, K was always off the charts. Curious if Maddie will look more like her Daddy! Maddie is super easy....super super easy. Such a chill happy kiddo...again maybe like her easy going daddy or crazy like her mom? (Easy Eric & Krazy Kristen)

At 4 Months, she has found her toes! This is the irresistible stage, who doesn't like a chunky smiling baby eating her toes? She is much more eager to be mobile than K was. During Tummy Time, she is already swaying back and forth. She scoots to try to grab something and is trying to sit up. We always talked about these things for months before K ever did them, but I really think Maddie will surprise us.

Lovin the Bouncy Chair

Irresistible

More Toes!

Happy to go anywhere, anytime

Looking like her Daddy

My Buddy, My Buddy, My Buddy and Me

2011-06-01T21:50:00.005-05:00

Kaylee & Maddie....two peas in a pod. Never seen two girls so in love with each other.....total bliss. I'm going to read this when they are High School and reflect on this happy time.

Big Sister, Little Sister

Helping Maddie sit in her chair

Or use her head as a drum

Matching PJ's

Love, Love

Showing Sis how to grab the toes and vice versa

Swimming Time

This sums it up

Gymnastics Fun

2011-05-21T21:46:00.002-05:00

K is at her peak of her Gymnastics career. Sorry K, but your legs are little to long for Gymnastics. I will eat my words when you make the Olympic Team, but until then....here are your mad gymnastics skills.

Monkey

Swinging

Love the Face

Big Finish

What you do best, Jump...a lot

China Uncle Takes Texas

2011-05-20T21:30:00.000-05:00

Uncle Greg came to visit from Shanghai! And....Grandpa & Julia came in from El Paso and Brian, Dana, Noah, and Baby Ernst #2 came in from Angleton. Happy to introduce lil Maddie and spend quality time with Familia!

Uncle Brian & Maddie

Telling Uncle Brian who's Boss

Artwork by Cousins

Baseball with a Football and a Tennis Racquet

I love Bathtub Pics...think K was more excited!

Serious Cuteness (Poor Noah's Face)

Smiles for Grandpa

Proud Grandpa & Daddy

Daddy use this opportunity for a Homebrew Tasting

Facebook Posts

2011-05-18T00:05:00.002-05:00

Got 2 funny facebook posts this week, not sure if they are extra funny since I'm away this week. Boy, did they bring a smile to my face. Both posts are from parents at the girls' school....

Kaylee was asking me what was all over my arms today. Then she asked me why I had tattoos.... I had nothin to tell her. Ha!

AND

This morning when I dropped Blake off K was involved in pouring work at a table by herself. As we passed her she said, "Blake..." - held up the little pitcher next to her face - "....I have beer" - hahahaha!

Why are you still there?

2011-05-17T23:54:00.003-05:00

Oh, Kaylee. What am I going to do with you? (A common phrase my father would ask me.)

"Why are you still there?" asked Kaylee tonight when she hijacked Eric's phone and locked herself in her room. So cute. She started rambling like no other and actually had somewhat of a conversation with her. I couldn't get over the high-pitched squeaky little girl's voice.

Thank goodness for iChat, so I can watch Maddie's chubby cheeks grow. She smiles ear to ear when she sees me.....and that is why I love technology.

Eric is being a trooper.....more like the trooper's captain. Or something like that.

Family from afar

See what I'm talking about?

Out to Cali

2011-05-16T03:13:00.003-05:00

I'm in California for the week training for my new gig at work. Obviously not the easiest thing to do leaving the girls, and poor Eric, and breastfeeding...how is this going to work out? To be honest, I have no idea. Ask me at the end of the week.

K's teacher gave us good suggestions while Mommy is out:

1. Have Kaylee "x" out the days on a calendar, so she count the days down until Mommy is home.

2. Carry a picture of Mommy and take it out when she misses me.

3. iChat.

I picked out the girl's clothes for the week, Eric loaded up the kitchen with foods I don't allow, Tinkerbell Calendar is up, Freezer is stocked up with milk (I hope, enough), and practiced iChat with Kaylee. Wish us luck!

I scream, you scream....

2011-05-16T03:11:00.002-05:00

Kaylee screams for GELATO!

And she ate the whole bowl, true story.

A Centered Child

2011-05-16T03:00:00.003-05:00

Last Friday, we had a wonderful Teacher-Conference for K. Nothing beats hearing how great of a child you have. Of course, we think so, but always nice to hear it from others. ;)

The teacher described K has being even keel, observant, intelligent, strives to meet expectations, comfortable, and outgoing but shy at times. She has taken an interest in reading and spelling, so the teacher is working with movable letters to spell three letter words with her. She made a comment on how much K thrives at puzzles as that is a pre-cursor for math. They are working on counting, but more importantly associating the quantity. That way you can tell the child "I need 8 plates" and she can get 8 plates....oppose to memorizing counting to 8.

When we asked what we need to work on.....the teacher replied, "I think y'all are fabulous parents and you have your self a very centered child." One of the best compliments ever and not because she said we were fabulous, but that we have a centered child. I couldn't ask for anything more.

Likes Legos just as much as Mommy & Daddy did as kids!

Left-Brain coming out...

K made Mommy her version of an Apple Computer

She even tells you what each button does

Chatterboxes

2011-05-16T02:54:00.002-05:00

There has been a language explosion in the Ernst household. Lil' Maddie has been razzing and a-gooing....never seen a baby try to talk so hard. The teachers at school have made serval comments on how vocal she is. I'm not too surprised, since her Big Sis is quite the chatterbox!

As for K, all of the sudden she is using bigger words. Nothing HUGE, but definitely the next step in her vocabulary. Eric and I stop and look at each other, did she just say that? Like....

"That isn't funny. I'm frustrated." Referring to when she couldn't find a book in her room. How amazing for a kid to verbalize their feelings? Using frustrated instead of the usual "sad".

"That's disgusting." Referring to the bug on the floor, instead of saying "gross".

"Wow, amazing." Referring to the Easter Cookies, instead of saying "yummy."

On a funny note, she is learning that some words have dual meanings. The other night I had a "hot" issue at work, boy, this was had to explain. Hot? Fire? Another instnace, Eric referred to something as "on track" and K asked about the racetrack.

Flashback....On one of my childhood favorites "Full House", DJ calls her little sister, Stephanie, a Chatterbox. For whatever reason, this was a huge insult. So, my older sister, Lindsey, would call me a Chatterbox and also went on to duct tape my mouth shut. Oh, sisters....

Dance Parties

2011-05-16T02:50:00.002-05:00

If I could give any advice to new Moms, two words...dance parties. Once the visitors slow down and you are at home alone with a tiny 4 Week old that doesn't do much.....dance party. I had dance parties with Kaylee and then almost every day on Maternity Leave with Maddie and Kaylee. I would blare...blare...my iTunes and totally dance like it was no one's business. Great workout too! Most the times the babies would fall asleep, but as the weeks go by the more they would start dancing too...first smiles were made! As babies, Kaylee's favorite songs were "Bubbly" by Colbie Caillat and "Three LIttle Birds" by Bob Marley, and Maddie's are "Little LIon Man" by Mumford Sons and "Bust a Move" by Young MC. When I say "favorite" I mean stop them from crying, dancing, or smiling. Kaylee LOVES dance parties with Maddie, she has some serious moves.....but she would get mad if you laughed at her "serious" dance moves.

Other songs on the Girl's Playlists. I will request these songs at their weddings and most likely start crying the minute I hear them. One of my favorite times...dance parties.

"Daughter" by Loudon Wainwright III

"You are the Best Thing" by Ray LaMontagne

"Say Baby" by David Garza

"Dogs Days Are Over" by Florence + The Machine

"Folding Chair" by Regina Spektor

"Counting Stars" by Cas Haley

"American Honey" by Lady Antebellum

"Day-O (Banana Boat Song)" by Harry Belafonte

"Big Night" by Big Time Rush

"Just Can't Get Enough" by Black Eyed Peas

"Clumsy" by Fergie

"Sweet Escape" by Gwen Stefani

"F* You" by Cee Lo

"Girls Just Want to Have Fun" by Cyndi Lauper

"Single Ladies" by Beyonce

"Baby" "One Time" "Never Say Never" by Justin Bieber

"California Gurls" and "Firework" by Katie Perry

"Just Dance" by Lady Gaga

"It Takes Two" by Rob Base & DJ E-Z

"Party in the USA" by Miley Cyrus

Anything by.....Michael Jackson, Bob Marley, Dispatch, OAR

Putting in writing to read this in 15 years.....I'll let you know how they turned out. lol.

Violin Lessons

2011-05-08T20:08:00.002-05:00

K, "I want to be a dance girl when I grow up."

Mommy, "We need to look into dance lessons, maybe when you are four."

K, "I want violin lessons, too."

Mommy, "Violin? Do you know what a violin is? Where did you see a violin?"

K motions how to play a violin.

K, "At school. I want violin lessons."

Daddy, "What about drums?"

K, "I'm NOT a band girl. Silly Daddy."

....Mommy & Daddy looking at each other having no idea where any of this is coming from....

Mommy Day 2011

2011-05-08T19:15:00.003-05:00

First Mother's Day with two kiddos! Double the fun, right?

Love being a Mommy to my beautiful girls! But I seriously couldn't do it out with Eric....we are very much a team. I told him today I would prefer a "Parents Day", but he doesn't want to give up his Father's Day. Plus, it's two holidays for Hallmark...they would never downsize to one. So, I embraced the Mother's Day.

There are several reasons I why I love being a Mommy, but I can't get enough of Maddie smiling when she sees my face and Kaylee randomly telling me that she loves me. Millions of ways a child can tell a parent they love them...from non-verbal gestures to rolling out the red carpet treatment. I love each one.

Highlights from Mommy Day 2011:

Girls' Movie Night for "Something Borrowed", loved.

Whole family outing to K's Gymnastics, K loved.

Olive Oil Tasting, amazing.

Work.

Cakebread Chard 2006, worth the wait.

Work.

Derby.

Half-Birthday Celebration.

Brunch at Lamberts, yummy.

Wine Tasting at Duchman Winery, beautiful.

Swimming at Papa & Tutu.

Cuddles with the girls.

On the way to see K's Gymnastics

Olive Oil Tasting

Love my Mommy Bracelets

Brunch with My Girls

Wonderful Daddy and Cute Maddie

Reason #2467 why I love K

Wine Tasting

Couldn't get over how big the winery was for Texas

Don't fall in K

Special Breakfast with K

2011-05-08T19:00:00.003-05:00

Friday Morning, K's school had a special breakfast for the Mamas. I dropped off K and then needed to get MM situated in her classroom. When I came back to K's room, she had two plates of banana breads with forks and two glasses of chamomile tea waiting for me at the table. She has never waited on me before...so nice to be pampered by a 3-yr-old. While eating she told me to close my eyes for a surprise (something I do often with her), once I opened my eyes she gave me a clay pinch pot that she had made. She was so proud to give it to me. After we finished, she cleaned up everything. Again, not used to the wait staff. She pushed in our chairs and wanted to show me the classroom. Not just any tour, but..."Here is the door to outside. Here is the doorknob." etc. etc. She wanted to show me all of her work, but obviously didn't have a week to spend in the classroom. I told her to pick one work to show me, so she picked a Butterfly Puzzle where you put together the eggs, then caterpillar, then cocoon, then Butterfly. She was elated after she finished it by herself....kept saying that this is a "hard" puzzle since it has "lots and lots" of pieces.

Definitely saw a more mature kid Friday morning, and really felt like she was going out of her way to make me feel special. One lucky Mommy.

Work-In-Progress Backyard

2011-05-08T09:08:00.004-05:00

Our backyard has been Terrapin's Backyard for years, but the girls are invading. We are trying to grow grass over her running trails and attempting to make our backyard into a Family Backyard. Over the past few months, we have cut down 2 trees, planted 2 trees, created a garden and herb garden, planted several plants, and attempted to grow grass. Here a few pics of the progress.

FEBRUARY 2011

MARCH 2011

MAY 2011

Blog to Book

2011-05-08T08:35:00.004-05:00

I've been published! ;) Finally got around to making the Blog for 2008/2009 into a Book!

How awesome is this?

Seriously, I'm not good at Baby Books. Sit down and write....with a pen?? Much rather type real quick. I do apologize for any grammar errors....I'm used to writing in bullet points and five word sentences. Transitioning from fast-paced corporate life to family blogging isn't easy sometimes. Anyhow, this my modern day Baby Book. Totally Kristen, traditional with modern twist. I always do things on my own terms anyways.

I originally started the blog to keep family and friends updated on the kiddos. Now, I'm writing it for my girls. I want them to have stories of their childhood, so bare with me if I add in my advice, lessons, family history posts too.

Happy Half-Birthday Kaylee!

2011-05-07T20:50:00.000-05:00

Oh, yes....we celebrate Half-Birthdays! It all started with my December Birthday and my Sisters/Brother having summer birthdays. I was part of the "It sucks to have a birthday right before Christmas" Club. So, my Mom started celebrating my Half-Birthday in June. I got half a cake, often times a watermelon. I would a get a small gift too. I loved it and my friends love it even more. Some of my Half-Birthdays were some of the best birthdays I've ever had, besides celebrating Lindsey's Birthdays with her ID. ha. There are no expectations with a half-birthday, so no disappointments. I love them.

Today was Kaylee's Half-Birthday...the big 3 and 1/2! She wanted Strawberry Shortcake and Strawberry Cake...so that is what she got. She was elated and loved celebrating another birthday! I called my Dad and K hijacked the phone and locked herself in her room. She realized it was Papa's Half-Birthday too.....so we celebrated with him too. She doesn't quite understand the "Half" part as she told 2 8-Yr-Olds, "It's my birthday." "When?" "Right NOW. I'm Four." Well K, you aren't Four RIGHT NOW, but in 6 months!

My first time making the famous Watermelon Half Birthday Cake

Happy Half-Birthday Kaylee!

Half-Birthday Twins

Excited about Strawberry Shortcake...more excited about Cool Whip

Who does Madison look like?

2011-05-04T20:41:00.002-05:00

Eric, "Madison looks like Daddy."

Kaylee, "I look like Mommy. Madison looks like me. Madison doesn't look like Daddy, because she doesn't wear whiskers."

Maddie May is 3 Months!

2011-05-04T20:35:00.003-05:00

Happy 3 Months Maddie! She has ton quite a bit for only being 3 Months old! She definitely is losing the newborn look and looking more like a baby baby.

Such a happy little girl...all smiles and chuckles!

K was excited that MM was 3 too!

K woke MM up, but we got a cute smirk!

Children's Ball Charity Event

2011-05-01T21:50:00.005-05:00

K got to dress up as a Princess two days in a row?!? Sounds like a great weekend!

On Sunday, we headed over to the Children's Ball Charity Event for Relief Nursery. One of my friends from yoga worked for the non-profit and thought K would love the Princess & Pirate theme. Princess & Charity...perfect match! It was beyond perfect.....Bouncy Castle, Nail Salon, Fishing, Dancing, Hula Hooping, decorate your cupcake, design your crown, tried martial arts for the first time, and horse carriage rides! Perfect for a princess! Great fun, good cause! And of course...Maddie slept through it all!

Video of dance moves is at the bottom...enjoy!

On our way for a very important date!

That Pink Blurb is K

K's only King

Princesses were everywhere!

Her favorite game!

So precise.

Her face makes me laugh.

Hula Hoop

Trying something new!

Dreams came true...on a horse carriage ride!

The next Kate? Yes, we watched more Royal Wedding when we got home.

Yes, Maddie you were there! xoxo. Yes, Mommy was wearing a crown! ;)

As K would say, "Watch my dance moves."

She is so awesome...trying to dance like the big kids.

Eeyore's Birthday: Kid's Costume Contest - "Kelly The Princess"

2011-05-01T21:30:00.004-05:00

No, we weren't planning on entering the Kid's Costume Contest. But while we were playing the Kids' Games, so many people asked if K was going to be in the contest. Why not? We go to wait in line, and some of these kids went ALL out. This was just an opportunity for K to be a Princess...again. As the contest began, the kids would go introduce themselves and answer a question or two. Oh no. K is three years old. There is no way this is going to happen. I was standing with MM and my friend Julie while Eric was with K, I'm trying to get his attention to give her a "pep talk". There was no pep talk happening. I started to get worried and bet Julie $5 that K would run off the stage.

Then, it was K's turn. She went up there by herself in front of lots and lots and LOTS of people.

Announcer, "Who do we have here?"

K, "Kaylee"

Announcer, "We have KELLY. And what are we dressed as, KELLY?"

K, "Princess"

Announcer, "We have KELLY The Princess. Are you having fun KELLY? Anything special you want to say to everybody?"

K, "This is my Princess Wand."

Announcer, "Ok. So, KELLY the Princess, everybody. We are having fun."

Ok, I was DYING laughing...KELLY? Thank goodness, Julie recorded this...which is at the bottom of the post. So proud of K for not running off the stage and brave enough to talk to the announcer in front of lots and lots of people.

She lost to the Purple People Eater, but it's ok....Kelly lost...not Kaylee. ;)

One of many crazy kids...

I pretty sure the kid to the right placed

So proud of my Kelly...I mean Kaylee

Eeyore's Birthday

2011-05-01T14:39:00.007-05:00

On Saturday, we headed to Pease Park for the 48th Annual Eeyore's Birthday. According to Wiki..."Eeyore's includes live music, food and drink vending which benefit local non-profit organizations, attendees in colorful costumes, and very large drum circles. The event is still known to most as a festival oriented towards modern hippies. It now boasts an annual attendance in the thousands."

We love this very Austin fest. It has local beer and activities for the kids, that is if you are a free-spirited kind of parent. I would recommend getting there early and leaving early with the kiddos...those drum circles create a lot of smoke. wink. wink.

Any excuse K gets for dressing up as a princess, she's in. So, we were excited to go this year. All of our Texas breweries were there, and St. Arnold's made a special Hefe for the event that was too die for. SO good. The highlight was K entering in the Kid's Costume Contest...see next post.

Happy Grateful Dead Maddie May

Daddy & K with Eeyore

Throw the bees

Going Fishing

Cute Antlers

Pin the tail on Eeyore

Arts & Crafts before K's meltdown...we missed the window to leave

Always loves the swings

Always happy when there is another hand to push K...thanks Julie!

Playing with Kay

2011-05-01T14:35:00.002-05:00

If you come to our house, within 5 minutes K will ask you "Want to go to my room and play?" or "You want to push me on the swing?" BEWARE.

Here is a video of K asking me to play dinosaurs with her in Maddie's Room. Just another Sunday morning.

The Royal Wedding

2011-04-29T09:41:00.003-05:00

Will & Kate...awe, the Royal Wedding! No, we didn't wake up at 4AM to watch it, but we did start watching it at 6AM. I thought Kate looked absolutely amazing, and cried. Why must I cry during weddings? K was so cute...kept calling Kate "Cinderalla"! Of course, it turned into K is a Princess and she is getting married.

We needed to head to school and I said, "Ok, Princesses off to school."

K corrected me, "Madison isn't a princess, she isn't wearing a dress."

"Well, you aren't either."

"I'm wearing pink though."

So, I guess you are a Princess if you either wear a dress or pink.

K did put the Princess Crown on MM though....

Run K Run

2011-04-29T09:10:00.004-05:00

Oh, does K like to run! We never pushed her to run, but I think she likes it since Mommy & Daddy runs. She started off in the running stroller and now runs with us....and she is fast! I can't wait to get her in a race! She can run a little over a mile, but typically likes to race us to the poles. She does have that competitive edge!

Race to the Pole during a Family Walk

Yes, K is sticking out her tongue. Expect the pictures for the next 5 years to be like this.

Last Day of Swim Lessons

2011-04-29T09:02:00.002-05:00

K had her last day of Swim Lessons on Wednesday and she did so good! I can't believe how comfortable she is in the water and how she genuinely wants to be a better swimmer. IE. Practice in the bathtub...blowing bubbles, kicking, floating on her back. The last day all the kids got a Report Card, which K thinks is a Birthday Card. I explained that it tells you what you are doing well and what you need to work on. I ask her, "What do you think you need to work on?" Her response, "Nothing." Well, we may need to work on this concept. However, on the report card the teacher noted that K respected the teacher/students, followed directions, and set an example in class. That is all I needed to hear.

We go back to swim lessons in July, and hopefully will hit the pool several times until then.

Maddie May First Chuckles

2011-04-29T08:57:00.003-05:00

Yesterday, I came back from a quick run. Out of breath, I went to see K playing in her room with Daddy while Maddie watched. All of sudden, MM bursted into a chuckle! We all looked at each other...did she just laugh? K was just making "salad"...not too silly. But MM sure got a kick out of it.

Thanks again to my iPhone...here is MM's first chuckles:

Next Picasso...

2011-04-28T09:09:00.002-05:00

Latest artwork from Miss K.

K has been drawing "people" like this for the past year, and it is quite impressive. Very Tim Burton....large body with long legs. This picture is of Daddy with whiskers holding Maddie. This is the first time K drew whiskers and fingers...her artwork is evolving. Enjoy.

10-Year High School Reunion

2011-04-28T07:14:00.000-05:00

Yes, my 10 Year High School Reunion is coming up this year! And yes, I'm in charge of it!

It has been on my "Mommy Project" list while out on Maternity Leave, but I haven't had time to even start my "Mommy Project" List! What was I thinking?!? Two Days left of Maternity Leave!

I got the Venue, Food, DJ, and a website (http://rhs2001.myevent.com/). But the next big thing is trying to track down everyone, so I went through the yearbook yesterday to get a Master Alumni list....no, the school doesn't provide one. Facebook is helpful, but we only captured 40% of the class. So this will be a project for the next couple of months.

Anyhow, I scanned old yearbook pictures....so you can make fun of me.

Best All-Around...Mr. & Miss RHS

Probably one of the most embarrassing moments of my life.

I like attention, but not the "walk down the aisle with a crown and scepter attention".

Rather be behind the scenes. The best part of being Miss RHS, was my friends would go to random people, restaurants, anywhere saying, "Do you know who she is? Miss RHS." No, we never got anything free or royal treatment out of it.

Best Attitude

Oh, dear. I look awful.

I have a bad attitude about this picture.

Senior Class Officers

Vice President Kristen...my slogans were "Vote for Kristen or She'll Lose" and "Vote for Kristen May and Have a Nice Day".

I was surprised that all the clothing is pretty much in style now.

Student Council

I'm actually surprise how many life experiences I got out of StuCo.

We went to a series of International Affairs Luncheons, where we would have 3 Course sit down meal and listen to speakers. We were the only kids.

I went to Monterey, Mexico to stay with a family where we went to school and did charity work. Then, one of the Monterey students stayed with us.

Also, went to several leaderships camps and events.

PAL's (Peer Assistance Leadership)

I have a very special place in my heart for PALs. This was an organization that mentored elementary kids and acted as Mediators at school. You are assigned to about 4 kids a year and I learned just as much as they did. Huge progress in one year. Also, learned how to mediate, which I wanted to do study more at UT...but didn't want to go to Law School.

Hoppy Easter!

2011-04-25T11:37:00.006-05:00

We had a wonderful Easter in San Antonio! All of siblings came in to town, so it was nice to ALL to get together. Saturday Night, we decorated eggs and made gourmet pizzas. K was quite serious about decorating. The girls woke up to their Easter Baskets and half-eaten carrots. K hunted for the eggs inside in the morning and outside in the afternoon. She gets so excited running around that she forgets to actually pick up the egg and put it in the basket! Too funny. Happy Easter!

Hard at work

Dying Easter Eggs

Don't think she cracked a smile

Putting out the Carrots

Sunday Morning...someone ate them!

So excited for the Easter Baskets!

Easter Baskets!

Family Picture

On the way home...

...totally different schedules!

Field-trip to the Witte Museum

2011-04-25T11:18:00.005-05:00

We weren't planning to go to the Witte Museum during our quick trip to San Antonio, but since K is sooo into Dinosaurs we decided to embrace this time. K's face was priceless when we saw the Triceratops, which is Daddy's favorite by the way. Every exhibit K would say "That's my favorite!" My favorite dinosaur bone, dinosaur footprint, dinosaur picture...etc, etc. I was excited to show her some beautiful Fiesta dresses, but she wasn't too interested. But she was really into the "Mommies" aka "Mummies". She kept asking lots of questions, only so much I could say about a wrapped up dead person to a three year old.

The Witte also has a kid's Treehouse with interactive stations for the kiddos, K had fun....but I think Uncle Tyler, Aunt Caitlin, and Daddy had more fun. Overall, great trip with the exception of meltdown of all meltdowns occur on the way out at the gift shop. She wanted a pink helmet, we weren't going to pay for it. It was nasty.

K couldn't take her eyes off it!

Her favorite Bone

Engineer trying to explain to 3-Yr-Old

Floating Ball

Seriously Eric?!?

Building a Log Cabin

Kaylee with Mommy, Uncle T, Aunt Caitlin

Family Pic at the Treehouse

The NOW famous pink hat..

Southbound 35...flat tire

2011-04-25T11:09:00.003-05:00

After the Easter Egg Hunt Saturday morning, we headed to San Antonio. And yep, I had my first flat tire...and of course it had to be on busy I-35. Thank Goodness for Eric! Couldn't imagine being by myself....on I-35....with the girls. Something flew and hit our car and next thing I know the steering wheel was shaking and then a weird noise. K kept asking "What broke?" We pulled over and sure enough...tire was completely flat.

But in 20 minutes, E had it fix. 5 minutes of it was trying to locate the tools under our massive luggage. Phew....

Easter Egg Hunt!

2011-04-25T10:52:00.005-05:00

It was our 3rd year to go to the big Old Settler's Easter Egg Hunt...and we have it down to a science. Go to the earliest time, get out of the car while E parks, do the bouncy castles while one parent stays in the line, and right before the Easter Egg Hunt ends book it to the Easter Bunny line. It took 23 minutes to do the Hunt, Easter Bunny, Firetruck, and back to the car. Yep, avoided long lines and any potential meltdowns. AND...everyone had a great time!

Going on the Big Kid Bouncy Castle

On a Mission

Maddie eating during the Hunt

K having lots of fun!

Smiles? Totally different than prior years...

Ernst Girls with the Easter Bunny

We are in THAT phase of pictures...

Beginning to look like Easter...

2011-04-25T10:42:00.006-05:00

Every holiday we make cookies...lots and lots of cookies. Easter was no different. This year I stepped it up and did the full out royal icings on the butter cookies and a sugary frosting on a sugar cookie. It was easy for the most part, but just took time. K had fun of course and MM just watched. We also also made some adorable bird's nest too....didn't taste too good, but were soo cute!

Warning...made get hungry:

Rolling out the dough

Did more licking than work

Attempting to pipe

K's favorite...putting the eggs in the nests

Seriously...adorable!

Happy K

Lil' Maddie May

Dinosaurs and Weddings

2011-04-25T10:31:00.002-05:00

Like any other 3-Year-Old, K is into Dinosaurs and Weddings.

I waited a few weeks to post anything on the Dinosaurs, since I wasn't sure if it was a week fad or something. Nope, she has been into Dinosaurs for the past month or so. Obsessed with them. Her favorite is Ty Rex. Every night we read the Magic School Bus Dinosaur book, which is more of a 4th Grader book but we read it anyways. It's a good book but long, and K asks a million questions! I've never knew so much about dinosaurs. There is also a TV show called Dino Dan, which is the current favorite. Not really sure where the interested came from, but we are going with it.

Dinosaurs!

Now....weddings. Everyone know K loves weddings, but did you know everyday around 4PM she gets married to Chase? Yep, she stands on the fireplace, faces Chase, and kisses him. Not to mention, she gets the chairs out for the "people" to sit. I asked if she wants be to "play" with her...nope. Totally content on playing wedding with herself. So, you hear her talk wedding stuff...but I can't comment on it since it would interrupt her.

You may kiss the bride...

What to do if you leave an imaginary friend at the store....

2011-04-25T10:13:00.002-05:00

Every Saturday morning we have K's Gymnastics. Originally, I thought it would be a great opportunity to give K extra attention. But she wants the girls (Mommy & MM) to watch her....every Saturday morning. SO, E gets to stay home, relax, go mountain biking...while I get to tag team the girls. Not complaining, just saying it takes some work.

Two Saturdays ago, we had our girl's gymnastics outing and I decided to stop by the Grocery Store to pick up literally 5 things. It was pushing it, since MM needed to feed right about then, but I was going to make it work. It was a disaster to say to the least....can't find anything, K running around, got in the wrong line, took 10 minutes to check-out, HEB Buddy Machine wouldn't work, etc, etc. Finally, get to the car and buckle in the girls...to realize I left my phone in the grocery cart. urgh. Unbuckled the girls, went back to the cart...nothing, went to customer service....nothing, finally a lady comes running to by rescue with my phone.

Get back to the car and started to head home with a half-crying hungry baby, when K shouted "Oh No!!!". I started to slow down and asked what's wrong. K informed me that we left Daisy at HEB. Yes, Daisy...her imaginary friend. She insisted on turning around to pick her up. Ok, what to do? I am not going back to the store to pick up an imaginary friend, but K was devastated. SO, like any other mother, I called Daisy's mom to tell her that Daisy is at HEB and she needs to go pick her up. K butts in and said that Daisy's mom needs to drop her off for at our house for a playdate and we will have cheese and grapes. So, I added that in as well.

All happened before 10:30AM........

Chocolate Eggs....and Daddy! Score.

2011-04-21T08:53:00.003-05:00

K is a negotiator. You tell her to do something, she bargains with you. Can't blame her, because we do it with her.

On our way to swim lessons Wednesday, K was telling me all the things she was going to do...blow bubbles, kick fast, go under water, catch the pink ring, and jump off with no hands. In return, she wanted Chocolate Eggs from our Easter candy stash. As we pulled in, Eric was standing on the sidewalk to surprise her. K was BEYOND excited! She shouted...."Chocolate Eggs and Daddy!

In this girl's life, she was complete. What is better than Chocolate Eggs and Daddy!

She totally showed off during swim lessons. She did her first dive and told the teacher "No Hands" when it was her turn to jump off the side of the pool.

That day....she got five Chocolate Eggs and a big hug from Daddy.

This is the way we go to school, go to school

2011-04-21T08:41:00.003-05:00

This week the girls transitioned to school...big week for us.

Monday...beginners' luck, everyone was happy. Tuesday...all three girls cried...yes, me too. Wednesday....working out the routine. And Thursday...we are on to something.

They started off with two hours, then 3, then 4 and eventually will stay all day later next week. Sooo glad we started the transition two weeks prior me going back to work.

We pushed back MM's bedtime to 10PM and sure enough like clockwork she is waking up at 6AM....8 hour sleeper to the tee. Adjusting K to wake up earlier took a few days, but we are there now. You know what this means? Mommy & Daddy can't sleep in on the weekends....ever.

K absolutely loves school and a big part of it is her best bud Blake. He has welcomed and eased K right in. She doesn't even say goodbye....peace out Mom I'm going to school. Tear.

MM is such a 2nd child, comfortable with everyone. She is doing great and will thrive at school.

Mommy....after a meltdown, she will be just fine. ;)

Going back to school wouldn't be complete without....New Lunchboxes!

Easter Back-Up Plan

2011-04-18T13:35:00.003-05:00

I checked the weather this morning and saw rain on Easter, so I said, "Oh No!" K asked why and I explained that it may rain on Easter and the Easter Egg Hunt may get cancelled. K's response....

"It's ok, Mommy. We leave for the store and leave the door open. Easter Bunny goes inside and hides the eggs and leave chocolate chicks. That way the eggs and baskets and chocolate don't get wet from the rain outside. Right? We need to give the Easter Bunny an umbrella. "

On another note, Maddie had made a pretty loud bowel movement this morning and K responded "She's pooping lots of jelly beans!" Thanks, Hop.

Playdates 101

2011-04-18T09:47:00.002-05:00

Now that Maddie is sleeping really good at night, our social life is resuming back to normal. Last week, we had a playdate everyday...yes, kid playdates and adult playdates. So what makes a successful playdate? Lets take a look back last week.

Monday: Mommy Playdate

-Success....Went out for dinner during Austin Restaurant Week with Julie. Good food, beautiful night, good company. Embraced the adult conversation and didn't worry about the girls....hard to do, but with practice you will actually enjoy yourself.

Tuesday: Daddy Playdate

-Success: Mountain Biking and Beer. Enough said.

Tuesday: Maddie Playdate

-Success: Met up with a Momma from Prenatal Yoga who has an adorable little girl a week or so older than MM. They slept, we caught up, and K got frozen yogurt.

Wednesday: Mommy/Daddy Date Playdate

-Needs improvement: After a stressful hectic day, I didn't want to go. But before we got married, we vowed to have date-nights regardless have how many kids. Aunt Melissa & Uncle Kev were gracious enough to watch TWO kids. So, we went out to a nice dinner and had good conversation about our kids. ha. Until Singapore called E for work, his boss just moved over there so he needed to talk. And the boss DID apologize for interrupting the first date after baby#2. It was nice, but I know we can do better. ;)

Thursday: Family Playdate

-Success: Went for a walk as a family. Nothing out of the ordinary, but when you name it a "Family Playdate"....K gets excited.

Friday: K's Playdate

-Success: Oldest friend Blake came over and boy are they silly. They wore each other out so much, both were asleep by 7:30PM! Total success.

Saturday: Group Playdate

-Success: Had a few adult/kids over. Kids played while the Adults had to much fun drinking sangria and homebrews. You know it was a good playdate if it started at 2PM and lasted to 11PM...lol. ;)

9 to 5

2011-04-18T09:38:00.003-05:00

Two weeks and counting until I go back to work. But Maddie is ahead of the game, she is doing 9 to 5.....that is sleeping from 9PM to 5AM. I can write it down now that is has been over a week. The 5AM feeding is rather small, so hopefully she will lose that soon too. I feel the more she sleeps the happier she is. I can't believe how many smiling pictures I have of her. With K, I struggled to capture that smile. So, either Maddie is really a smiling baby and/or I owe it to the iPhone to capture all the "In-the-Moment" pics!

Mini-Me

2011-04-18T09:29:00.002-05:00

Miss K is my Mini-Me. She looks like me, acts like me, and now talks like me.

Everyone knows that kids repeat everything you say, so you watch your profanity. Easy enough. But no one tells you that kids basically say all your "isms", you know your one liners that you say without any thinking.

So...here are the "Kristen-isms" that K repeats all the day. Can't say they are annoying, because I SAY them! But when your 3-year old tells you them, it is rather funny.

In times of distress....

"Calm Down"

"Take a Breath"

"You aren't listening."

"I don't have any hands."

"I'm not going to say it again."

"It's okay"

"That's silly."

And the sweet ones...

"I love you sooo much."

"Such a cutie pie."

"You got to practice."

"Never give up."

Good 'Ol Company Picnic

2011-04-11T17:33:00.005-05:00

Yesterday, we headed up to Georgetown for my Company Picnic at Reunion Ranch. It was great to see everyone from work and their kiddos...not to mention all the new babies! Quite a few were born from Dec-Feb. It was a beautiful day and the ranch had lots of activities for the kids! And of course, beer for the adult kids. K enjoyed paddles boats, tug 'o war, pony rides, forts, tire swings, races, balloon popping, and more and more. We were very surprise K went with the Big Kids and Counselors to do most of the kids activities by herself...such a BIG girl now. After about an hour, we went to go check on her and she opted out of the zip-lining and just wanted a snow-cone. Daddy drank beer, Mommy socialized, K played, and MM slept...fun time had by all.

Family Photo...Maddie's foot is in the pic!

Me & K on the Paddle Boats...the wind knocked my beer and stained my white pants!

And yes, it was happened right when we got there.

K's signature face

My Lil' Pony

Maddie loves her Julie

Beautiful Day at the Fort

Tug O War...K was definitely the youngest, but not the weakest! ha! ;)

Pop my Balloon...or hold your balloon so they won't pop it.

9 Weeks Old - Times are a Changin'

2011-04-09T18:11:00.004-05:00

I forgot how fast things change with newborns, seriously!

Last Saturday, Eric & I went to an extraordinary wedding...first time out without the kids. But what was EXTRA ordinary was...Maddie slept from 8PM to 7AM. Either my parents gave her whiskey or she is transitioning to a good schedule! SO...Maddie May is now sleeping in her crib...no bassinet!

Not only did MM make the big move, but now she is completely pulling her head up during tummy time. This is really exciting for the new parents, but the thing with MM is that she never showed any progression. She literally went from floor to 90 degree angle?! Again, this kiddo doesn't gives us much signs...always keeping us on our toes.

Last, Maddie is being entertained...getting a kick out of the mobile, playmat, dance parties, ceiling fans, yoga, and of course big sis K. It's fun to see her amused and then...back to sleep. ;)

After the past month of SA, Ft.Worth, Wedding, another Wedding...we should be on to a "normal" schedule.

Movie Outing with the Girls

2011-04-08T16:50:00.003-05:00

When I just had K, lots of moms told me to go see a movie. I thought this was absurd, take a newborn to a movie? I could see me running out of the theater with a crying baby in the first 10 minutes. No, thank you.

However, when trying to keep a 3-year old entertained and a newborn, I thought I might give this movie thing a try. How bad could it be? I'm experienced now...I've had my moments of crying baby on the plane, potty training clean-up on aisle 9, and forehead collision to a marble table corner.

Fed Maddie, loaded up the Mary Poppins bag of food (No, I don't care), everyone went potty, and left just in time to get there right when the movie started. Not one minute early, I do NOT want to increase the time of sitting. Tickets, check. Popcorn, check. Seat next to the door, check.

Preview start. K, "I want to go home." And she hasn't mastered whispering.

This is going to be fun. Oh, previews. Why do you have to be so scary? Please stop and start Hop....fun, light, Easter Bunny, candy movie.

FINALLY, Hop started and I saw a smirk on K's face. She probably said she wanted to go home at least 10 times, but we were making progress. After making some headway, OF COURSE there has to be a scene of scary big dogs chasing someone. K is deathly scared of dogs. We need a dog whisperer. I thought this was going to be the end of it, but I told her to close her eyes. Phew. About 30 minutes into the movie, it was smooth sailing. She finally started to laugh, smile, and enjoy the show! M slept the whole time with a little rocking.

I survived...one hand rubbing K's back and one hand rocking M....the whole time. The Mommy Workout.

At the end of the movie there was the scene where the Dad said he was proud/loves the son. Without taking her eyes off the screen, K touches my leg and said, "I love you, Mommy."

Alright, little more effort that I would have liked, but it was worth it. And now K is SO excited for Easter! Not to mention she thinks the Easter Bunny poops jelly beans. See the movie.

"You're my Best Friend. Ok?"

2011-04-08T16:42:00.003-05:00

Today, I walked in on K talking to M, "You are too little to ride a bike. Ok? But you grow up, you get bigger and you can ride a bike. Ok? You are my best friend. Ok?"

I was thinking this relationship was one-sided, but I can already see that Maddie May wants to be just like her big sis! Love watching this budding relationship....

Calm Down

2011-04-07T11:42:00.002-05:00

Walk into the bathroom to find K putting on self-tinted lotion on her face.

Mommy, "K that is only for Mommies."

K, "It's ok, I'm Chase's Mommy. I need it for Daisy's party." (Note, all imaginary people)

Mommy, "Kaylee." Gives THE look.

K, "It's ok. Calm down, Mommy."

Oh no she didn't....

Big Time Rush Crush

2011-04-07T09:29:00.003-05:00

No one told me the "Teeny Bopper" phase started at 3 years old.

Big Time Rush is a boy band that has a TV show on Nickelodeon. Their music video appeared during commercials during Dora, next thing I know we are watching the Big Time Rush TV Show. Then, next thing I know K is in love with Kendall....the blonde one, 2nd from the left.

This past weekend it was the Nickelodeon's Kid Choice Awards and none other than Big Time Rush performed! Here is K watching her favorite band....

Big Girl Swim Lessons

2011-04-04T21:10:00.002-05:00

Today was a big day, K's 1st Swim Lessons since she was 9 Months old. K isn't scared of the water, but she isn't the one to jump off the deep end. I simply was thinking she would observe. Not to mention, hoping the teacher and the kids were good...they make a HUGE difference. But I've reach the point in motherhood where I have no expectations. I don't expect her to go and swim across the pool and I wouldn't be surprise if she didn't get in the water. As much as you know your child, you never know. However the things I do expect are simple: listen to the teacher and don't have an accident in the pool. Again, you never know.

The set-up at the pool was similar to gymnastics, a window to separate the kiddos from the parents. The nice teacher introduced herself, and K walked right in with her pink goggles and pink kickboard with the other 3 kids. At first, she hesitated to put her feet in the water once a boy said the water was ice, but the class laughed and said it was hot. Next thing I knew, feet in the water and it was her turn to kick across the pool. She didn't hesitate once and acted like she was doing it for years. She kicked, floated on her back, blew bubbles, learned arm movement, and jumped off the side of the pool. Totally impressed and the teacher couldn't have been more pleased for her first class.

Anyone that knows me, knows that I've been swimming since 2, started on the swim team at 5, a swim coach at 15, and lifeguard until I was 19. Swimming was a big part of my Texas summers and also where I met my BFF of 20 years. Watching K swim was a BIG Mommy Moment! I was so proud that she listened to the teacher, didn't have an accident in the pool, AND was a natural swimmer. 7 classes to go for the month and already succeeded in my book.

The Set-Up

2011-04-04T21:04:00.003-05:00

This past weekend, E built his Homebrewing stands and now has a complete awesome set-up...for now. It has taken years to get to this point with his homebrewing equipment and with his recent birthday gifts...he should be good to go for awhile. Until things get bigger and better or he wants to fine-tune lagers. There will always be something, but we've come a looonnnggg way. So, thank you all...he has received lots of gift cards/money to contribute to his passion.

Next step, get a kegarator to hold 4 kegs to serve the houseguests....

When I grow up...

2011-04-01T17:56:00.003-05:00

From K....

"When I grow up I want to be a Baby Doctor. And Dancing Girl. And Baby Doctor. And a Cooking Girl. And a Princess. And a Baby Doctor. And a Mommy."

"When Maddie grows up she be a Dog Doctor. And Singing Girl. And maybe she wants to be a Mommy too."

Ok, melt my heart with wanting to be a Mommy. Love.

Maddie May at 8 Weeks

2011-04-01T17:22:00.005-05:00

Maddie May is 8 Weeks Old today! Time flys by...wow.

She is quite the lanky baby, she is 24 inches long (97%) and 11 pounds 12 oz (81%)! Long and skinny!

At her check-up everyone kept saying how laid-back and content she was, and the day before at yoga she smiled and giggled the whole time. Someone asked me if I gave her happy pills. It made me feel bad that I said she was ever a cryer, she really isn't...she is a baby. I think we just aren't used to having babies around, and there are a lot more disruptions in the household than when K was a baby. IE. KAYLEE!

Maddie is definitely expressive. I've never seen a baby smile and coo for such a long period of time. But then she has her witching hour too, which is around 5-7PM when Eric gets home, cooking dinner, etc, etc. But of course, normal with the little ones, they just want to go to bed for the day. K was much more even keel, but as a 2nd child myself, I think Maddie fits right in as the expressive one! ;)

She has been sleeping a good solid 6-8 hours, again I shouldn't be complaining. She's a great eater, sleeper, and happy lil baby. She is sooo loved. K is smitten with her...just today she randomly went up to a couple with twin babies and said, "That's my sister Madison, she's a baby too!" Because we are always on the move, I do catch myself staring at her forever when it calm and quiet. Taking it all in. Enjoying this time watching my 2 month old and this unconditional sister love grow. I love babies and sure do love my girls.

Picnic with the Girls

2011-04-01T17:04:00.002-05:00

So yesterday was K's last day at her school, and will be spending girl time with Mommy & Maddie for the next 2 weeks before both start at a new school together. We kicked off our "Girl Time" with a Picnic at a Park with "No Boys", but Daddy can come next time....all according to K. I received an adorable Picnic Basket as a wedding shower gift and this is the first time I used it...it is awesome and more picnics to come. I had a blast talking to K...and for once she devoured her veggies. Of course, Maddie slept. K keeps surprising me with her imagination, she basically turned the playground into a pirate ship and well, all the stories to go with it. Funny part is Maddie made an "Errrr" sounds, and K was happy Maddie was playing along. Oh, I heart my girls.

Apparently you need an umbrella for the Car Wash...

2011-04-01T17:01:00.001-05:00

Bust a Move

2011-04-01T16:51:00.001-05:00

I love her first expression when the music starts playing...

Kaylee Counts to Ten in Spanish - Funny Ending

2011-03-31T09:38:00.005-05:00

1st Place Black Opal Stout

2011-03-31T09:28:00.002-05:00

So proud that Eric won 1st Place for his Black Opal Stout in the Bluebonnet Brew-Off in the Smoke Flavored & Wood Aged Beer Category! There was 74 entries, which is insane to me. You have to submit 3 bottles and send them to Dallas, so it is a lot of work to even enter. Also, Eric only entered two beers and to come out with a first place...hello, that is awesome. He is definitely making a name for himself in the Homebrew circuit, when we stopped in at another competition drop-off in Dallas this weekend...he knew people!

Black Opal Stout is oatmeal, chocolate, coffee stout infused with bourbon soaked oak cubes. His beers are for people that appreciate beer, no Dos Equis here. Very proud wife, I got a pretty good gig myself....drink beer and give feedback.

Wedding Weekend in Dallas

2011-03-28T14:00:00.001-05:00

My brother from another mother...(and father), Tim, got married this past weekend! Tim is Becky's brother, which she is my BFF of 20+ Years, so it felt like it was a family wedding. Becky is currently living in beautiful Santa Barbra and everyone else but Tim is living in Florida. So, it was great time to show-off baby Maddie May and growing Kaylee to my second family.

We headed up to Arlington on Thursday. It took forever to get all the "stuff" in the car, but Maddie slept the whole way and K napped and played with the iPad. Smooth trip for the most part. Eric was a Saint, while I headed to the Rehearsal Dinner, he ordered pizza with the girls. It was my first real night out without the girls, it was weird, but I was with my other girl Becky. Did I mention Kaylee loves hotels? She assumes the whole hotel knows her and kept asking to go "see the people". She loves the attention, especially when Becky's Aunt painted her nails. And Becky gave K makeup, so of course she put lip gloss on every girl, no boys...that's silly.

The rest of the weekend we spent a lot of time in Fort Worth shopping and visiting friends. The fam and extended fam all went shopping after margaritas, which I think Becky and I just like to see how many cities we drink Margaritas and go shopping at Anthropologie. I can count 6 cities. Also, found my new favorite kiddo store...Zoe+Jack...to die for. I'm still dreaming of a few outfits right now. Next, we met up with Alicia and her boyfriend at Joe T's, which is my new favorite place. Gorgeous patio and yummy margaritas! My sister, Caitlin, was also able to stop by to hang out with the whole HP crew. And last, we visited Tim & Erika at their adorable house, where they are getting ready for Crawford James's arrival in July!

Eventful weekend and not even the wedding yet! The wedding was fun, just had some logistics issues with the girls. IE. we left and then I came back 3 hours later to continue the night. It's hard work to keep a newborn and 3 yr old all happy. But hey, at least we made it.

Tired to say the least...and we didn't take many pictures. Hands were full with little ones and their "stuff".

Love my 2nd Family

How cute? They are so wearing these Easter, don't judge. ;)

Me and the Girls

BFFs - Westside

Kiddie Park

2011-03-23T16:07:00.000-05:00

Kiddie Park is one of my favorite childhood memories and couldn't wait to take the kiddos! It has 1920s-era park rides and is the oldest kid's park in the US...opened in 1925! Most every San Antonio native has had their birthday party there at one point. The rides are perfect for younger kids, so Kaylee was ready to go!

This ride was the most "scary" going up and down and round and round.

K's face was priceless...she loved going high!

Again, loved going high. But not so sure about the boys with her...

Of course, she picked the PINK airplane!

Oh, and we rode the Carousel at least 6 times!

She pouted the whole time on this one and we couldn't figure out why. Later that night, K said she didn't like the girl with the red hair. We asked what girl with the red hair, and the girl with the red hair took the pink train leaving K with the green train. She didn't have fun on this one...

San Antonio Getaway

2011-03-23T09:40:00.007-05:00

Last Weekend, we packed the 2 kiddos off to San Antonio! We are pros now...

I first headed to one of my dear friend's adorable baby shower and I can not wait to meet Noah Christian in May!

Saturday night, Maddie got to meet her Great-Grandparents on my side and Uncle Tyler, who was on Spring Break from Texas Tech. They got to see some cooing, smiling, and crying...so it was a complete visit. ;) Of course, Tutu made some yummy food. And my father provided the entertainment for the night by catching the BBQ Pit on fire...and almost the house.

On Sunday, Eric and I took to K to one of my favorite childhood memories...Kiddie Park, see next post. In the afternoon, Maddie and Kaylee got to see my old High School friends Lindsey and Julia. It was so nice to catch up!

Overall, it was a very eventful and fun weekend! Most of all, I enjoyed taking the kids to where I grew up...I absolutely love my neighborhood with big yards, big trees, old houses, and deer all in the perfect location. I want to buy a house like that in Austin...but can't afford a 1M house at the moment. One day...

Maddie May with the Great-Grandmas!

Grinning Ear to Ear

Uncle Tyler with the Girls...I love K's face in this one

Happy St. Paddy's Day!

2011-03-18T14:33:00.002-05:00

I like any Holiday where all you have to do is wear green and drink beer.

Yes, I had a Guinness.

Yes, K opted for the PINK shirt with green writing oppose to a green shirt.

And yes, M is adorable.

Representing my less 10% Irish with a little Strawberry Blonde tint?

OK, maybe a stretch...but we're celebrating St. Patrick's Day!

For those who don't get to see K often, this is one of her signature looks.

Sisters...

Bath Time!

2011-03-18T13:32:00.004-05:00

K insisted that Maddie should take a bath with her, but with much convincing we agreed on right next to each other. This was the first "real" bath we gave M, besides the sponge baths. No reaction from M...no smiles or frowns.

However, K was all smiles.

Got nothing from Maddie....

And for those who ask who Maddie looks like? Well, below is a picture of Kaylee about the same age. I swear.

What the Princess Likes....

2011-03-15T20:56:00.003-05:00

Toothless Grins

2011-03-15T13:42:00.002-05:00

Say AHH!

2011-03-15T10:27:00.003-05:00

Today, K visited the Dentist for the first time. Our Pediatrician had been checking her, but had recommended taking her to the Dentist to get comfortable. Once she turns four, she will get an actual cleaning. Today the focus was just a quick examination, tooth brushing, and a talk about nutrition. K seemed a little nervous at first, but once the Dentist told her that Cinderalla goes to the Dentist...everything was just fine! Apparently, K has "crystals" for teeth now. Whatever works! Everyone in the office went crazy for Maddie, but K was quick to inform them that Maddie has NO teeth and that she has princess teeth.

For whatever reason, my mom would take us to Olmos Pharmacy for the best milkshakes in SA after the Dentist. Now out of habit, I suggested K get a milkshake afterwards. Nothing like a mouthful of sugar after a good teeth cleaning! As a side note, you can order a McDonald's milkshake before 10:30AM, but can't order a Happy Meal?

K's New Hair-Do

2011-03-14T16:53:00.003-05:00

I'm tired of picking up K from school and her hair looks like her parents have never washed or brushed it. All the other girls still have their bows in, why can't you keep anything in? So, we are chopping her bird nest. Going to hear about this one from Daddy, who loves your hippie ways.

Clean Summer Cut

Maddie, you're down there. Next time.

Pink, did you have to ask?

"Mommy, I'm so excited. I'm a Princess."

Time to dance like a Princess...

Kaylee's Input

2011-03-14T16:48:00.003-05:00

As we walked to K's room last night to put her PJ's on after bath, Kaylee provided her two cents.

"Mommy, I need a brother and a sister. I already have a sister, so now I need a brother."

No response.

"Okay, Mommy?!?!"

I chuckled, talked to your Daddy.

"Daddy, I already have a sister, but I need a brother. Okay?"

Maddie burst into tears. Daddy burst into laughter.

"Don't laugh! This isn't funny! I need a brother!"

Well K, we will wait and see if you get a brother or if you need to get an imaginary brother. Mommy and Daddy can't think about baby #3 for awhile. ;)

Kaylee & Ashley

2011-03-11T09:52:00.002-06:00

Yes, this is a picture of Kaylee and Ashley. Don't you see her?!?

Ashley is one of Kaylee's imaginary friends. Last year, we went to Eric's cousin's wedding, where Kaylee met a vibrant flower girl, Ashley. A real girl. Once we got home, K would call Ashley on her pretend phone and have conversations. Next thing we knew, Ashley was living with us.

"You are sitting on Ashley."

"You hit Ashley on the head."

"No, that's Ashley's"

Yep, Mommy and Daddy often sit, step, hurt Ashley since we have NO idea where she is. So, we have to apologize. It is adorable, but at times frustrating.

Along with Ashley, there is Daisy (started from a toy bracelet), Ocho the Dog, Grinco, and other made up names. K refers to her "Big House" in the city/town, where she has a whole other family there. The level of detail in her stories are amazing. The BabyCenter weekly email said my three-year old would have imaginary friends, but I didn't think to this degree!

Anyhow, its adorable and impressed with K's wild imagination!

Maddie at 5 Weeks

2011-03-11T09:40:00.002-06:00

Maddie is 5 Weeks today! I feel like she is should be three months old, we have done so much! With Kaylee, we stayed in the house for like 2 months, but with Maddie we were out to lunch and shopping at Day 3. Life keeps going with Baby #2. Maddie and Mommy have been going on our 2 mile walks everyday during the week and Post-Natal Yoga on Wednesday. Yes, Maddie just sleeps through it all.

Maddie, here is what kind of baby you are:

-Efficient Eater: You are done in 5 minutes. You can chug.

-Outspoken Pooper: You let everyone know when you are going poop.

-Zero to 10 Crier: You go from silent baby to crier. I don't blame you, you have to be heard over Kaylee. ;)

-Mild Reflux: You have spit up a total of 4 times. Not bad, except for you get the reflux to your throat and then swallow it. More painful to watch.

-Sleeping Preference: Sleeps in the Baby Chair, partly due to the reflux. Hates the Bassinet, but started to like it this week.

-Schedule: 3 hours feedings in the day and sleeping 4-5 hours at night! Almost to that 6 hours, Mommy and Daddy can't wait!

-Growing girl: Already over 10 pounds!

-Discovering Hands and Ceiling Fans: Amazing!

-And my personal favorite....toothless grins!

We love you Maddie and it has been such a fun 5 weeks!

Toilet Paper Roll Holder Incident

2011-03-08T12:29:00.003-06:00

Game of Clue: Innocent Three-Year Old "Miss K", In the Master Bedroom, With the Toilet Paper Roll Holder.

Crime: Crying Newborn with a Bump on Forehead.

Yes, this is my Monday morning. After feeding Madison, I went to the Bathroom. Aren't Moms allowed? Next thing I know, Maddie is screaming, Kaylee won't tell me what happened, and our metal toilet paper roll holder that the maids broke the day before is laying next to Maddie. Yes, Miss K bopped Maddie on the head. I was able to soothe Maddie right away, and wasn't too worried....but then again this is a FOUR week old and the toilet paper roll holder is a rather heavy metal. Called the Pedestrian and they told us what to look out for....Maddie is fine and will be one tough little girl.

Now for Miss K, this is not like her. She just isn't a violent kid. However, she has become a rather curious and imaginative kid. So once again, we had the gentle and fragile talk. More importantly, she has entered a stage where she doesn't tell Mommy and Daddy what is wrong. Whether embarrassed or afraid of getting in trouble or disappointing her parents, she has hid the fact that she spilled Gatorade on the patio (not a big deal) and how her index finger is bleeding after experimenting with a pencil sharpener. So, the past couple of weeks have been a lot of talking with our Big Girl. We definitely have entered another stage of parenting, remember when they just eat, sleep, poop? Thanks Maddie.

Kite Festival

2011-03-08T12:19:00.007-06:00

This past Sunday was the annual Zilker Kite Festival! This is one of our favorite events in Austin and it was such a beautiful day.

Kaylee having fun.....

Maddie having fun.....

Afterwards, we recycled our bread and fed the ducks! The swans were out too!

Kaylee feeding the ducks....

Maddie feeding the ducks....

Candyland Meltdown

2011-03-08T11:51:00.002-06:00

Lately, we have been playing board games with Kaylee on the weekends after bathtime. We gave her Candyland as a Christmas present and we were enjoying playing a real game as a family. At first, she followed the directions well and understood how to win the game. After a few weeks, she quickly learned that she didn't want to "win" anymore, she simply only wanted "Queen Frostine". So, we would spend the whole game looking for that card. Then, K just wanted to collect each character card, regardless if she had to move back to the beginning of the game. Last Saturday, she was literally ONE rainbow square of winning the game, when Daddy picked the "Gingerbread Man".

Dramatic music. Burst into tears. Meltdown in Candyland.

Finally, K compromised and switched spots with Daddy. Yes, one spot away from winning to the first charter square. Add another 30 minutes to the game. Guess we are far from actually playing a board game by its rules. Just know if you play with K, she always wins...at least by her rules.

When Mommy gets sick....

2011-03-05T15:04:00.002-06:00

How is that I get sick, but no one else in the family is? I haven't been sick with cold/flu since Swine Flu 2009. Mommies should not be able to get sick, just sayin. Feeding a newborn and keeping up with an active three-year old is not easy and when sick its not easy or fun. Fever broke this morning, so just pray that no one else gets sick in this household.

Luckily, I married Eric.

Hard at Work

2011-03-05T13:54:00.003-06:00

Precision and Patience.

Yesterday, we went to see Kaylee hard at work at school.

"Work" is the term used in Montessori -From an evolutionary perspective, the long period of childhood exists so children can learn and experiment in a relatively pressure-free environment. Most social scientists refer to this pressure-free experimentation as “play,” although Montessori prefers to call this activity the “work” of childhood. Children are serious when engaged in the kind of play that meets developmental needs. Given freedom and time, they choose purposeful activities over frivolous ones.

She has been doing some of this work since she was 12 months old. But now she does it with such precision and patience. She used to build the tower and knock it down. Not skipping one beat, she unrolls the mat, moves the blocks smallest to largest to the mat, builds it from largest to smallest, breaks it down smallest to largest, puts it back where it belongs largest to smallest, rolls the mat, puts the mat where it belongs. Good job!

Currently, her favorite work is the Flower Puzzle. Each petal is slightly different, so it is a rather challenging puzzle. Very proud of our Big Girl!

Sisters!

2011-03-02T16:13:00.003-06:00

Oh, Kaylee and Maddie. Big Sister, Little Sister. Obsessed, Smothering, Loving...this is how I would describe Kaylee with her little sister. She absolutely loves Madison more than anything. She gives kisses non-stop, non-stop. She consistently is on top of her making out. I tell her to stop smashing her, but she gets mad and yells "I'm LOVING my sister!" Whatever, I can't stop the sister love. At times, she makes me call her Big Sis and Maddie Lil Sis. When I pick K up from school, all I hear for the next hour is "My sister, so beautiful. Ohh. Cutie Pie. Little toes. Chubby Cheeks. Ahh." I have no idea where she gets this behavior. ;) Guess I'm the one to blamed for this lovefest.

Love at First Sight

Proud Big Sister

Kaylee and Maddie

Sleeping Beauties

Maddie and Kaylee's Baby Ashley