Picture time

I had some pictures taken by Olivia Collins of Lane and Dutch - they were Lane's 6 month pictures, but of course Dutch came along (as did Bella) so there were a few taken of him also. I was absolutely insane to think that I could take both kids and the dog to Falls Park by myself for the pictures to be taken. It is hard enough with just Bella, or just Dutch, but all three of them was nearly impossible for a few reasons. 1) I don't have a double stroller (if any of you know where to find a good one, keep your eyes and ears peeled) so that means Lane rode in the stroller and Dutch had to walk 2) Bella is the WORST dog to walk on a leash 3) Although Bella is a good listener for the most part, I wasn't thinking that when I got her around the water that she would no longer obey and just freak out that she could see & hear the water, but couldn't get in it. Needless to say, after about 30 minutes of juggling the three of them, I had to put Bella back in the car to finish the shoot. Anyhow, we got some really great shots. Check them out below!

First Day of School

Dutch and Lane have both started school this year. Dutch is in a K2 class, going 3 days a week. Lane is only going once a week, but both continue to go to Jade's house on their off days, at least until she moves. They both seem to like it - or maybe I should clarify, Dutch likes it, Lane at least doesn't cry when we leave her and the women in the crib room say she is happy all day.

This year, Dutch will familarize himself with shapes, colors, numbers and letters. Some of this he knows now, but over time he'll get better at it! He'll also start going to music at school. Lots of new things for him!

I cannot believe how fast my kids are growing up. Before I know it, they'll be starting elementary school!

Pics coming soon!

Labor Day Beach Trip

We just returned from a long weekend at the beach with my family. It was so nice to be able to do that since this was the first year that we didn't do an entire week at the beach. In fact, we were all a little sad that we thought we weren't going to do anything, but turns out we were all able!

On our way down, Dutch got sick in the car a few times - not sure why, but that was not fun at all - for any of us. We were sure it was over, but then entire weekend he went from being playful and happy to crying and uncomfortable. The only was I know to describe it would be if you had the flu and were achy, didn't want anyone to touch you and just weren't sure if you wanted to be under covers, lying down, sitting up, etc. You could definitely tell he wasn't feeling well. Now that we are home, he is all better, but Lane has a horrible case of diarrhea and diaper rash. I'm not 100% sure that this is the same thing Dutch had - could be something she picked up at daycare. More on that in the next post.

Anyhow, the beach was great and we were able to get some really great pics of all the kids.

Lane, ready to go to the beach!

Jackson

Dutch

Jackson and Lane snoozing

Jackson and Kirk

All the kids - Jacob, Dutch, Lane, Joseph and Jackson

The Groome Family - Joseph, Kim, Jackson, Jacob and Kirk

My nephews - Joseph, Jackson and Jacob

Playa Mujeres with the Norris'

We had a great time on our trip to Mexico! Our resort was awesome and we couldn't have asked for a better time. We spent most of our days at the pool and swim-up bar :) and at night we ventured out to the cheesy shows the resort put on or the disco. You all know that DJ has a VERY hard time just sitting by the pool not doing much of anything, so AJ thankfully kept him busy with tennis, ping pong, etc. I think, though, at the end of the vacation he was glad that we weren't doing something every minute of every day. It was nice to just relax!

Anyhow, it was fabulous to have a break from parenthood, but we missed the kids terribly and we were ready to get home to them after our 5 days apart.

The day we arrived!

These hammocks were heavenly!

Kelley and AJ

Our last night :(