The Becker Boys

kindergarten round up

2012-02-01T10:35:00.000-05:00

How is it even possible that Jake is almost 5 and getting ready to start kindergarten in the fall? Last night David and I attended kindergarten round up at West Maple Elementary. We listened, we asked question and we are still on the fence about what will be best for him next year. We are going to go ahead and register him at two places and make a decision as it closer to school starting in August. Last night was just for the parents. There is day and the end of May when Jake gets to go take a tour and ride the bus.

getting creative

2012-01-30T17:21:00.000-05:00

Jake is having a hard time writing the letter k by himself, he only wants to trace it. He can do it he just seems to get frustrated and want help. I was talking to Therese who gave me the idea to let him practice writing letters in shaving cream. And of course what Jake does Nathan needs to do to. Lets just say there was not as much letter writing as I would have liked but they did have a great time and they are already asking to do it again. Note to self: next time this needs to be done just before baths and use whip cream instead.

cooking class

2012-01-30T11:30:00.002-05:00

For the next 15 Mondays Nathan and I are taking a parent toddler cooking class. While our projects bakes there are songs, arts and crafts and free play. This morning we made cheddar biscuits. Nathan loved the cooking and could not to eat his biscuits. I have a feeling Nathan is going to LOVE this class!

elmo live!!

2012-01-27T14:27:00.000-05:00

This morning we headed downtown to the Fox Theater to see Sesame Street Live with Macy and Hannah. We picked today since Jake did not have school and he join in on the fun. Nathan was a little nervous when the show started but within a few minutes he was mesmerized. I think he was the most excited of any of the kids. He was so into the show he was not even asking for snacks!! He sat so nicely on Sara's lap I was super impressed with him. Jake of course is such a big kid these days and was on perfect behavior too.

being brothers

2012-01-27T14:07:00.001-05:00

I love my kids don't get me wrong but let me tell you they do not play well together for the most part. It seems like they are always fighting over the same toy even if we have two! This morning was a rare moment that they played nicely. I'm aware playing on the stairs is not a good idea but they were locking the dogs up and took a little break.

parent teacher conference

2012-01-27T14:02:00.000-05:00

I meet with Jake's teacher yesterday to talk about how the year is going. Over all it was a good conference, he is doing everything he should be doing. The only thing we need him to work on is his overall independence. I'm not shocked by this at all. He has made great strides since the beginning of the year but she gave us a long list she wants him doing by the next conference in April. Including picking out his own clothes, I'm not sure I'm ok with that. The rest is more doable making his bed, setting the table, helping to load the dishes, working on his homework independently and taking care of the dogs. It is hard to belivehe is going to be 5 in just a few short months, he really can do alot more for himself.

snow!!

2012-01-21T15:54:00.003-05:00

Finally we have snow!! The boys were so excited to finally be able to play in the snow. Austin came over this morning and they had a fantastic time sledding down out little hill. Maybe tomorrow we will take them to a real hill.

party at enzo's

2012-01-21T09:53:00.001-05:00

We had a fabulous time as always at Montante's house last night. It turned it to a wii playing party. Therese brought over a wii Nickelodeon dance game that even Nathan could play. All the boys played so nicely together. Thanks again for having us over for dinner!

Aidan loved keeping up with the big boys

Nathan loved riding the bike in the house

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family fun event

2012-01-20T16:19:00.001-05:00

Last Sunday Jake's school had a family fun event at the JCC.

Jordan, Austin and Jake

life at 2

2012-01-20T16:12:00.003-05:00

Nathan and Macy are both a little obsessed with technology. I promise you they did play with age appropirate toys too.

take 2

2012-01-12T10:06:00.000-05:00

The new train is finally up and operational. They rode around for hours last night. The boys had seen the broken train so there was no big reveal which was a bummer but they still had a great time.

hannah's 1st birthday party

2012-01-12T10:01:00.000-05:00

Sugar and spice and everything nice that is what Hannah is made of was the theme to candy filled first birthday party! It was candy, cake and ice cream overload for this party. Talk about a sugar high but the boys had a great time bouncing and playing at Hannah's party.

sydney and lizzy

the cool candy cake

the good humor ice cream cart was a huge hit!

sydney took turns driving Jake and Nathan around

nathan starts school!!

2012-01-10T11:07:00.000-05:00

It's crazy to me that this day is here, how could my little man be ready for drop of school??? He has been ready for a while he always want to stay when I drop of Jake. He was a little unsure when he realized I was not staying, he kept asking me to take my jacket off. He did shed a few tears, but they said the only last a few minutes then he was ready to play. He was very excited that he now has his very own backpack and lunch box.

macy's 2nd birthday party

2012-01-10T10:47:00.002-05:00

I went a little crazy with pictures, I was having so much fun with my new speedlight! We helped Macy celebrate her second birthday at My Gym on Saturday. Macy had a huge smile on her face the entire time. Her party had a train theme which Jake and Nathan thought was really cool.

checking out lilah

birthday girl Macy

not sure if he enjoyed his cupcake

henry ford museum

2012-01-07T14:47:00.001-05:00

After we were done with the Wizard Of Oz exhibit we went in to the main part of the museum which luckily was not busy at all. We were not sure what to expect but since we were already there we figured we better check it out. The boys had a blast, there were many hands on activities for them. The were able to drive an old car, make and fly paper airplanes, be a train conductor and drive some large farm equipment. The highlight for both boys I think were the trains! Nathan had a huge smile on his face when he saw the giant locomotives.

wizard of oz at the henry ford museum

2012-01-07T14:31:00.001-05:00

Jake has been very in to the Wizard Of Oz lately he wanted to watch a movie about witches. So when we heard The Henry Ford Museum had a special hand on children's Wizard Of Oz exhibit I knew we had to check it out. The exhibit was very packed and Nathan was a little nervous so I was not able to get as many pictures as I would like but a few to get an idea.

baby jakey

2012-01-07T13:53:00.001-05:00

I had the bouncy chair out earlier in the day when Ella and Lilah were over. With in seconds of walking in the door Jake was in the baby chair. Jake and Nathan could have played with this chair for hours, (luckily it has a 40 pound weight limit) they kept taking turns on who would be the baby and rocking the baby. The were sad this morning when they came downstaris and the bouncy chair was back in the basement.

star student

2012-01-07T09:10:00.000-05:00

I'm going to be that mom for a minute and give a shout out to Jake. Jake has been taking swimming lessons at Goldfish for almost 4 years!! He is turned in to quit the little swimmer. This month he is one of their star students. Way to go Jake!!

gymnastics

2012-01-06T10:10:00.000-05:00

Jake had been taking a gymnsatics class at the Sports Club for a few weeks now. He seems to enjoy expeect he wants me to watch from down on the gymnastics floor and not up behind the glass with the rest of the parents. It actually works out well and Nathan can play while Jake is in his class.

hair cut

2012-01-06T09:57:00.002-05:00

This is from a few weeks ago, I'm just uploading pictures from my phone. Let me tell you I love that my new phone has such a great little camera, it so nice that I know I always have it with me.

nathan's meet the teacher day

2012-01-05T13:11:00.000-05:00

Nathan is going to start school next week. He will be in a young two class! He will go on Tuesdays and Thursdays and even stay for lunch, it was silly to pick him and Jake up at different times just an hour apart. Today he set up his locker and even got a homework assignment for next week. The class is small, only six kids and two teachers. It is hard to believe my little man is ready to be dropped off at school.

his very own locker

really mom another picture??

with his teacher miss Jackie

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having a great time with his new friends

check up

2012-01-03T12:24:00.000-05:00

Jake had an 8:15 dentist appointment before school this morning. Talk about reality check getting out the door, I had to wake Nathan up even. We have enjoyed lazy mornings and not having to rush out of the house over break. I could not believe the difference 6 months made, he was so much more mature. Jake has been nervous at the dentist even since he knocked his teeth out and had to have x-rays. Today when they said he need x-rays I was nervous he would freak out, last time they had to hold him down. Today however he was a champ. I love the office we take him to they are so great with kids. Jake was laughing and smiling the entire time. Two of Jake's bottom teeth are a little loose, maybe he will actually loose these the old fashion way.

new years eve

2012-01-03T10:41:00.000-05:00

The Schwartz family invited us and the Ostrofsky family over to help ring in the new year. I could not believe how well they boys did staying up so late. We did not make it to midnight mostly because David had to work the next day. The kids had a great time decorating sugar cookies. Nathan was not sure what to do at first, he though the dough was play-doh our little cookie monster did not know he could eat the dough until he saw the big kids eat some.

Jake dressed as a zoo keeper

last few of 2011

2012-01-02T12:24:00.000-05:00

I was trying to take a few pictures before we headed out to our new years eve party, however two little boys were not in the mood to sit still. Jake want to hold "baby" Nathan and the he wanted to sit on Nathan's lap. As all could have guess Nathan did not like that plan.

twenty twelve

2012-01-01T11:06:00.001-05:00

sous chefs

2011-12-31T11:33:00.000-05:00

I offered to bring dessert to our New Years Eve party tonight. I did not have to ask the boys twice if they wanted to help. Jake loves to help me bake he asks all the time to make yummy treats but since I do not want to eat them we only make them when I get to take them to someone else house. Normally I just buy something but since they are so in to helping me and enjoy it so much I could not say no. Not to mention it was fun bonding time. We spent most of the morning baking. Jake requested pumpkin bread, then we also made brownies and my new favorite thanks to Therese are theses Oreo truffle cookies. So yummy and easy.

little helpers

2011-12-31T11:20:00.001-05:00

The boys love to help me do things around the house. For them laundry is fun, I wish I could say the same but at least they are enjoying helping me.

robot garage

2011-12-27T12:50:00.000-05:00

We went to scope out the Robot Garage this morning. I have heard great things about this place and wanted to see if it's somewhere Jake would like to have his birthday party since he is very into legos these days. Yes, I know I am planing ahead but finding the right place is never easy. They had an entire area with just duplos, Jake would have liked to plan with the smalled legos but was fine planning with duplos since they were better for Nathan. I wish they would have given us directions since building is not my strong suite. The staff was very friendly and helpful. We will be going back again, but next time we need David to come and help us build.

happy everything

2011-12-26T13:43:00.001-05:00

My parents as usual went totally crazy with gifts this year. Jake and Nathan are two very loved and adored little boys. Unfortunately they boys were not feeling up to themselves, especially Nathan. They both and had runny noses and Nathan had a fever. Jake got a leappad and Nathan got a innotab. Nathan also received tons of Thomas the train stuff.

merry everything

2011-12-25T13:42:00.000-05:00

hanukkah with the Schwartz family

2011-12-24T21:33:00.000-05:00

Every year we have a little Hanukkah party with the Schwartz family. Jake and Lily were very excited to be able to light the candles by themselves this year. You would never know it by these pictures but as the night went on Jake cheeks started to get very red, we took his temperature and sure enough 100.2. You would never know it by the way he was acting, but our night got cut short and we left before dessert. Jake got lots of board games and Nathan received a vtech karaoke machine and Thomas the Train phone.

heading to dinner

2011-12-24T21:20:00.001-05:00

I had to bribe them with cookies to sit for a few pictures, but atleast I was able to get a few cute ones before we headed to dinner.

good intentions

2011-12-24T21:16:00.000-05:00

Last night David and I stayed up late to put together the kids big gift, a new ride train. We had in all set up ready to go for the big reveal in the morning. When David went downstairs to take it off the charger he realized that it was not working. After much frustration we realized that something was wrong and it was not going to happen. We quickly boxed it back up and gave the boys different gifts instead. They had no idea what was going on, David and I were both very upset and disappointed. Our entire morning was lost dealing with this silly broken train.

back to kids gotta play

2011-12-23T13:57:00.002-05:00

Jake has been asking to go to Rainbow Recreation aka Kids Gotta Play for a while. It finally worked today since he started his winter break. We meet up with Sara and Macy, even little one month old Lilah tagged along. We kept our distance though since Jake has a runny nose. Jake loved pushing the little ones on the tire swing.

pump it up

2011-12-21T12:58:00.000-05:00

We meet up with our buddies Enzo, Brady and Logan for a little holiday celebration. We decided instead of exchanging gifts we would plan a fun activity since it so hard for all us to get together with every ones crazy schedules. We headed to Pump It Up in Wixom, we lucked out, they were not busy at all. Jake has not been boucning in a while, he could not wait. He did not want to go to school in the morning he was so excited to go to Pump It Up. The boys had a fantastic time bouncing and hanging out with each other. After bouncing we headed to dinner at Red Robin and meet up with David, Tony and the Ostrofsky crew. It was a very fun night.

my little chef

2011-12-21T12:43:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I have to let Nathan make a little mess so I can get a few things done. Luckily the dogs do a very good job of cleaning up all of the cheerios. He is happing as can be when he is cooking in the kitchen.

the finished product

2011-12-21T12:28:00.001-05:00

Jake has amazing attention span when it is on his terms. I was so impressed how he helped and watched the assembly of the lego spaceship. However, we have learned a very hard lesson the completed legos are not to play with, the brake apart very easily! Jake will be receiving a few more lego sets this holiday season and I hope is as excited to put them together.

lets just say legos are not for 2 year olds

our first night of hanukkah

2011-12-18T19:03:00.000-05:00

Even though Hanukkah does not actually start until Tuesday night, we started our Hanukkah tonight because we have a very busy week with many social obligations and David's crazy work schedule. My parents joined us for our little celebration. While Jake was distracted in the kitchen with my mom I brought all the presents up from hiding. The look on Jake's face was priceless when he saw all of the presents. He asked if Santa had brought all of them. There had been alot of talk at our house lately about the being on the good list and the naughty list. So I guess he was a little confused. I was going to let each boy open two gifts tonight but after Jake opened his Lego spaceship that was all he cared about. Daddy and Jake had immediately got started on building it during dinner.

Nathan first gift was a pirate ship

Jake was very excited to give daddy the gift from him and Nathan

dinner with the hayes family

2011-12-18T18:25:00.001-05:00

It has been way to long since we have seen Melissa, Dave and Owen. I think it has been since over the summer!! We were texting back and forth and realized that neither one of us had dinner plans so they headed over and we carried in Chinese food. The boys had a blast playing, they were absolutely crazy and running around like maniacs.

room 23 hanukkah party

2011-12-18T16:21:00.001-05:00

Austin invited all of his friends from school to a Hanukkah party at his house. Fifteen of the seventeen kids in Jake's class were there. Austin's mom had a great idea to get the kids involved in the spirit of giving and have all the kids make gifts for their teachers. The kids tie-dye tee shirts and decorated coffee mug and candle holders. And, a few other things that I can't remember because Jake just wanted to go play with his friends and eat chocolate. In a rush to get out of my house this morning I forgot my camera. So here is a quick pictures from my phone of Jake decorating a coffee mug. He was very excited to use permanent makers.

hanukkah party at school

2011-12-15T10:22:00.001-05:00

Wednesday night kicked off our holiday party season. Jake's class preformed several adorable songs for us. Followed by a very yummy latke dinner. I was proud of Jake singing up on the stage, he did such a wonderful job.

our centerpiece

ode to the iphone

2011-12-14T16:03:00.001-05:00

I have had you for less than a month iphone and I really do not how I lived without for so long. However there is simply not enough of you to go around. Everyone wants you all time. Luckily we have your friends the ipad and itouch but for some reason it is not just the same, but does usually prevent a war from breaking out. Because what one has, the other always wants. So forgive me now if I am not great about responding to texts and missing calls because you have been confiscated by little hands.

coversation with Jake

2011-12-11T11:03:00.001-05:00

We are trying to teach Jake that the holidays are not just about getting but giving too. I'm trying to get Jake involved in picking out gifts for others. Here is the conversation:
me: Jake, what should we get daddy?
Jake: A robot shaver
me: What about Nathan?
Jake: A robot doll
me: How about Grandpa?
Jake: A robot yoga mat
me: what should you and daddy get mommy?
Jake: A robot iron
me: Are you sure about that mommy really does not iron
Jake: That's why I will get you a robot iron it will do it for you

Really??? my kid wants to get me an iron??? Where does he come up with this?? My iron works perfectly fine collecting dust.

potty time

2011-12-07T13:18:00.001-05:00

Nathan is getting closer to potty training, he had been asking to sit on the potty and telling us when he poops. I think having a big brother is also helping. We were playing in the basement with this doll, a favorite toy at the moment. He tells me potty, I'm like what? So we head to the potty, however Nathan wanted no part of sitting on the potty he only wanted the doll to go potty. I thought for sure the doll was going to go for a swim but luckily that did not happen. After taking the doll potty Nathan decided that it was time for them to shower as well.

kids gotta play

2011-12-02T13:28:00.001-05:00

For our Friday playdate with Hannah and Macy this week we headed to Rainbow Recreation to let the kids burn off some energy. It was a great morning to go and pretty much had the place to ourselves. Even though it was not one of the free play days it was worth the five bucks to not have to deal with tons of other kids. Nathan LOVED swinging on the rings, I could not believe how strong he was. He thought falling off the rings was pretty fun too.

down he goes, guess I am not doing such a great job of catching him

stinky

2011-11-30T12:39:00.001-05:00

Jake is beyond terrified of stinky the garbage. So much that stinky lives in a closet in the basement. This closet is now where I hid presents because I know there is no way he would go near it. When I say terrified, I mean he freaks out, he told me he is garbage and needs to thrown away. I'm not tossing a $60 toy. I keep it hoping he will get over it.

I was being productive and started wrapping presents this morning. Nathan was playing nicely and Jake was at school. Nathan followed me to the present closet and took stinky out to play with. He thought he was hysterical and loved feeding him cars. I'm going to show Jake these pictures later and I do not think he will very happy.

just one

2011-11-28T16:30:00.001-05:00

This sweet little face now opens the fridge, and we know with this one that could only mean trouble. Now I need to find a good fridge lock.

getting ready

2011-11-25T11:43:00.001-05:00

Jake was very excited for Aunt Krisitn to come in for Thanksgiving, he was even more excited that she was going to stay at our house this time. Jake helped me get her room ready and even told me that he could babysit her since she was staying at our house. Jake was a big help getting some of the stuff made ahead on Wednesday. As you can tell by his face he enjoyed sampling.

Nathan enjoying his pumpkin bread

a few from thanksgiving

2011-11-25T10:47:00.001-05:00

big shoes to fill

2011-11-25T10:41:00.001-05:00

happy thanksgiving

2011-11-24T09:34:00.001-05:00

chief running horse

2011-11-23T11:41:00.001-05:00

This year Jake's class were the Native Americans and the other 4 year-old class were the pilgrims. The 4 year-olds were the host for preschool feast. Their feast consisted of frosted turkey sugar cookies, cornbread muffins and several other sweets. Jake was very eager to show of all the projects he has been working hard on. If you ask Jake what he is thankful for he will tell you his toys, at least he is honest.

doing his rain dance

alex's 2nd birthday party

2011-11-20T14:15:00.001-05:00

This was a special day, this was this first party that Nathan was invited too that Jake tagged along. Alex is a little boy from Nathan's parent/toddler class. The party was at Chuck E Cheese and the boys had so much fun running around and playing games.

Nathan with the birthday boy Alex

our jaker boy

2011-11-19T10:15:00.001-05:00

I can't believe how grown up he is looking these days. Kelly does such a wonderful with the boys, Jake loves Kelly and how she plays and interacts with him them the entire photo shoot. It makes for such a fun experience. I'm actually already trying to figure out dates for his 5 year old photo shoot!

Nathan at 2

2011-11-19T10:10:00.001-05:00

We recently had a photo shoot with Kelly Rama from makpics, she completely out did herself! She did such an amazing job of capturing Nathan's spunky and silly personality.

nathan's party at "school"

2011-11-15T10:54:00.001-05:00

Mondays Nathan has parent/toddler class this week David was able to join us to help celebrate his birthday with his friends at school. This marked the end of the birthday celbrations for a big two year old boy!

party time, part 1

2011-11-14T13:27:00.001-05:00

We celebrated Nathan's second birthday at My Gym with great friends and family on Sunday. Everyone seemed to have a terrific time and My Gym did a wonderful job with everything. Nathan had a blast and loved every minute of his party.

circle time

going thre the carwash

Sydney is always helping Nathan out

party, part 2

2011-11-14T12:00:00.000-05:00

As you can see, everyone seemed to me having a great time. Happy 2nd birthday Nathan!!!

Austin and Jake

quick snack break

Nathan on the zipline

Jake's turn

Marianna loving the zipline

Jake was to busy for a family picture

the greatest show on earth

2011-11-12T15:36:00.001-05:00

As part of the birthday weekend we took the boys to the circus this morning. The Schwartz and Ostrofskys also joined in on the fun. Jake was very excited, he was really hoping they would let you ride on an elephant, but no luck this year. He took it well and was delighted that we had front row seats for the preshow. He was completely mesmerized however it was a little to close for Nathan. He was asked to participate but was way to overwhelmed. And, of course I just had my little camera so I was not able to snap pictures fast enough. In true Nathan style he ate his way thru the show, cotton candy was his favorite treat! By intermission he curled up on my lap and went to sleep. We were shocked by this because this is so not Nathan, I enjoyed the cuddles and he slept thru the entire second half!

turning two

2011-11-11T13:50:00.001-05:00

What an amazing year it has been. Yes, it has gone fast but we cherished every moment of it. Seems everyday is filled with something new. Your energy, your funny faces, your giggles, laughter and games bring smiles to our faces each and every day. You are an amazing, caring, loveable and handsome young man. We cannot wait to see you grow up and experience it along side you.

After naps we headed over to grandma and grandpa's house where the celebration continued. Nathan is now all set for school Aunt Kristin got him his backpack and lunch box. He has outgrown his little anywhere chair and now he has a new big one. We headed to Max and Ermas for dinner and Nathan loved making his own ice cream sundae for his birthday treat! Thanks grandma and grandpa for helping to make Nathan's second birthday so special. Looking forward to his party on Sunday!

fun facts at two

2011-11-11T13:03:00.000-05:00

Shoe Size: 6

Clothing: 2t tops and 18-24 bottoms

Diaper Size: 4

Schedule:

Naps: Usually around 12-2 , lately he had not been napping as long

Bedtime: Bath is still around 7:00pm, books start about 7:30 lights out around 7:45

Wake: Usally around 7:15

Favorites:

Food: eggs

Snack: anything sugary, but fruit snack are the favorite

Fruit: Grapes

TV Shows: not really in to tv

Toys: Trains and little people

Fun Facts:

- He loves his big brother and always want to do what he is doing
- He is very in to books, he is always bringing us books to read him

- He still loves to eat, but is getting more picky

- He thinks he is one of the big boys

- He is such a little monkey

- He has mastered the ipad

- He wants what ever Jake has

- He does deal with "no" well

- He loves his parent/toddler class, and is very ready to start school

- He is taking a little break from swimming

- His loves music and dancing

two year well check

2011-11-10T13:19:00.001-05:00

Stats:

Weight: 29lbs 2oz (75%) .. fully clothed

Height: 34" (50%)

Head cir: (75%)

The pediatrician was very happy with where he is developmentally. Everything looked great. His umbilical hernia hasn't closed but he feels that we should just watch it a for now. So in the last 6 months he has grown 2 inches and gained 3lbs. Nathan is definitely chunkier than Jake was at 2.

He had to have a finger poke today, and a Hep A shot. His hemoglobin is still a little low so he now gets a full Flintstones vitamin which will make him very happy.

I would like to hear him talking more, but he is talking more and more every day so I know it's coming.

Next check up is at 2 1/2. Overall a great appointment for our little man.

Nathan is TWO!!

2011-11-10T13:02:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday Nathan!! Two years-old already!?! David has to work till 9 tonight, so we started off the morning with a little birthday celebration so he would not be left out of the fun. We let Nathan open a few little presents and then put a candle in his oatmeal and sang happy birthday. I though about it to late last night and should have had a muffin to put the candle in.

After dropping Jake at school we headed for Nathan's two year well check. (more to come on that)

After his appointment we hurried home because Shauna and Hannah and special gift for the birthday boy. He just loves his new Thomas Train Farm!!

When Nathan wakes up from his nap we are headed over to my parents for more birthday fun!!

stroytime adventures

2011-11-08T20:19:00.001-05:00

Jake did not have school again today, there was a city wide preschool in service. However his school offered a special 4 year-old storytime. Luckily they said it was fine that Nathan tagged along. It was very cute and well done, first they read Pete The Cat using the interactive smartboards, Jake loves this book, I think he knows the entire thing by heart! Then they were able to decorate their own tennis shoe. After that we went into a different room for music followed by a snack. It was fun morning and gave us something to do. I was very impressed with how Nathan did, he sat so well during story time and waited nicely for him turn play the xylophone.

fall leaves

2011-11-07T14:19:00.001-05:00

We had a relaxing Sunday, but after a while the boys were getting a little stir crazy and were ready to be outside to burn off some energy. I raked up a pile of leaves for the boys and they had blast.

bowling

2011-11-06T12:28:00.001-05:00

We meet up with the Larsons and Ostrofskys to go bowling Saturday afternoon. This was the first time Nathan was allowed at the bowling alley and lets just say it will be a while before he is going back in less I have David to help me. I can't believe how grown up Nathan looks in this pictures. Sorry, not alot of pictures I was to busy making sure Nathan was not killing himself with bowling balls.

just because...

2011-11-06T12:15:00.000-05:00

halloween recap

2011-11-05T10:56:00.000-04:00

Better late than never, here are the pictures from Halloween night! The boys had a great time and it did not take long for Nathan to catch on:) However, he had a very hard time understanding you could not eat all of the treats the minute you got them. We lasted about an hour and Jake could have kept right on going! It was a very fun night!

4 year old school pictures

2011-11-03T09:50:00.000-04:00

pumpkin fun

2011-10-31T12:46:00.001-04:00

I feel like we have done so much pumpkin (we have collection of about 7 on our porch) and fall stuff this year, but the one thing we left until the last minute was carving the pumpkin and cooking the seeds. For some reason Jake was very hesitant to carve the pumpkin, he just wanted it left alone. Aunt Kristin managed to convince it would be fun and the pumpkin would not be hurt. Once he got his hands in the pumpkin guts he was thrilled and was already asking to do it again! Nathan of course could not wait to get in on the action.

morning at greenfield village

2011-10-31T12:27:00.000-04:00

You would think David would want a low key day, with the amont he works when he has the opportunity to have one, but no. I really just wanted to lay around and be lazy, but with two little boys and a husband that is go go go that is never an option. Good thing he dragged me out of the house. We had a great morning at the village! We practically had the place to ourselves which meant no waiting for anything which was wonderful. We pretty just did our usual things train ride, model T ride, and the carousel ride.

end of the fall soccer season

2011-10-31T11:54:00.001-04:00

Saturday was the the last soccer game of the fall season. Jake played a great game and scored a few goals!! He has improved so much this season. Aunt Kristin even work up early to be able to see him play. I think he tried harder knowing she was there. At the end of the game Jake was awarded a trophy he was very excited to add this trophy to his collection.

going thru the tunnel

family photo

waiting for his trophy

Brady, Jake, Enzo and Logan

Jake loved playing with his buddies this season!

zoo boo

2011-10-30T15:18:00.002-04:00

We meet up with Kendra, Tony and Enzo for a quick dinner at CPK, then headed off to Zoo Boo. We were running a little late and the boys were way to excited to stand still or even cooperate for pictures. It was a very fun night!

erwins with aunt kristin

2011-10-29T14:41:00.002-04:00

After soccer we headed to Erwins with Aunt Kristin to pick apples for the last time this season. It was a very crisp fall day but we still had fun. Aunt Kristin and Jake picked out the perfect pumpkin. The plan for tomorrow is to bake the pumpkin seeds and make a few things with all of these apples.

boo bounce

2011-10-28T14:22:00.001-04:00

Here are the pictures Rebecca took this morning, I knew she would get some great shots and she did not disappoint:) The kids even left with a Halloween good bag.

big bad wolf?

2011-10-28T13:58:00.000-04:00

Therese took these cute pictures at soccer practice the other night. A.J. had borrowed David's big bad wolf costume, she brought it back to me at soccer. To keep Nathan entertained he of course was going thru the bag and came across this. He spent the rest of the night looking like this and practicing his roar. He really needs to work on being more fierce. The fun thing is he will not wear the head part of his costume. Maybe we need a last minute change?

bounce u

2011-10-28T13:34:00.001-04:00

Coming up with fun indoor activities every week is a huge challenge, not sure who thought of it, but today we headed to bounce u as our Friday activity with Macy and Hannah. We totally lucked out and had the place to ourselves the entire time!! Nathan loved all the bouncing. I was only able to snap a few pictures, but I know Rebecca took alot more, I will share those as soon as I get them.

four and a half!

2011-10-24T16:29:00.001-04:00

Jake is 4 1/2 today. Really 4 1/2 already?!? I know I sound like a broken record but where does the time go? Jake is already talking about what to do for his 5th birthday party. He is telling me he wants a skateboard, lets just say that is not happening. Time needs to slow down. Five just seems so old, not to mention last week we received his kindergarten application for Hillel. We are pretty sure he is not going to continue there but it made me realize how quickly it is coming. Since I'm very bad at updating his baby book, I need this for my records.

Jake at 4.5 years old

Est Weight: 37lbs

Est Height: 43"

Clothing: He is pretty much in 5T tops and 4T bottoms.. He is wearing size 9 shoes.

Schedule:

- He has been getting up way to early for me, usually around 6:30-7, he knows he can't get out of bed until 7

- Bedtime is usually 8-8:30, he is usually asleep in 10 minutes

Fun Facts:

- He loves to help me cook, especially bake

- Noodles are still his favorite food
- His favorite toy is my ipad
- He is very into outer space right now
- He just starting to work on some simple addition
- His memory and creativity amaze me daily
- He still loves his cars

bowers farm

2011-10-24T12:31:00.000-04:00

Jake's school had a family day at Bowers Family. We had a perfect fall afternoon for it. However, it was crazy busy and we had to wait in very long lines for the pony ride and hay ride but over all they did a pretty good job of waiting. The hay maze was a huge hit and so were making smores in the campfire. We could have picked pumpkins but we already have a large collection. Not a tons of pictures, I had a hard time playing photographer with each one trying to go off in a different direction:)

farmers market fun

2011-10-23T13:18:00.000-04:00

This morning we went to the end of season celebration at the Birmingham Farmers Market. The boys enjoyed decorating pumpkins and hayrides, and of course yummy fall treats:) The day would not be complete without a visit to Booth Park.

never can pass on an opportunity to drive a big tractor

enjoy his pumpkin muffin

on our porch

jeepers

2011-10-23T12:49:00.002-04:00

franklin cider mill

2011-10-21T12:42:00.001-04:00

We really needed to get out of the house and burn off some energy. Even though it was a little chilly we meet up with Sara and Macy at the Franklin cider mill. (Rebecca, Hannah and baby Ella joined us for lunch) Next week Jake actually has school on Friday. He has really enjoyed tagging along on our Friday playdates.

drum roll please!!

2011-10-20T15:38:00.000-04:00

It has been over 4 months since our hot water heater busted and left 4-6 inches of standing water in our basement. I can hardly believe that is finally done, well done in the since that carpet was installed on the stairs on Tuesday and today the builder finished the last little bit of trim work. Since my cleaning lady was coming the boys and I spent the entire morning unpacking boxes and trying to find homes for all the toys. It was very challenging with two little helps, as soon I put something away their little hands were in to it. There is still lots of tweaking to do and I need to figure out how to decorate all the walls, but at least we have a functioning basement. And, just in time for all the nasty weather. Now the I need to plan the party:)

silly at soccer

2011-10-19T11:13:00.001-04:00

Jake is just loving soccer this fall! I'm not always sure how much practicing is going on or how much is just silliness, regardless he is having a blast and getting his energy out.

Hallowe'en in Greenfield Village

2011-10-16T09:58:00.002-04:00

This was our second year going to this event. Last year Jake was still a little nervous about some of the characters but not this year. He loved seeing everyone dressed up for Halloween. We followed an endless path of hand carved jack-o-lanterns and meet many interesting characters along the way. Nathan was not sure what to think of the characters, he prefered hanging out in the stroller and keeping a safe distance. Jake is already talking about going back next year. Luckily we still have lots more Halloween fun to come.

swinging away

2011-10-09T14:31:00.001-04:00

We meet up with grandpa at the farmers market and then headed over to the park, before we went to the fire station open house. I with the weather could be like this for our family pictures next weekend.

learning how to pump

firestation open house

2011-10-09T14:19:00.000-04:00

West Bloomfield had their annual firestation open on Sunday. We were out of town last year for this event and after hearing how great it was I could not wait to take the boys this year. Jake was in his glory he LOVED every minute of it. Nathan was getting very tired and needed a nap, but was a good sport and wanted to do everything that his big brother did. I asked Jake what he liked best and in true Jake fashion he answer was the dog.

my little firefighters

booth park

2011-10-08T12:41:00.002-04:00

Jake was able to join us today for our Friday playdate with Macy. Hannah was able to come her grandma while Rebecca stayed home to get some rest. We headed to Booth Park for a fun morning. We are soaking up this weather while we can, we even stopped for ice cream after lunch.

Macy going down the big hill

pumpkins, part 2 westview orchards

2011-10-07T14:48:00.001-04:00

I loved going to the pumpkin patch as kid. I know it's still a little early to pick pumpkins but since we were there I figured I would let them each pick out a pumpkin. Usually the pumpkins are so picked over but not today, in fact most of them were so large the boys could not even pick them up. Nathan quickly learned to pick out the biggest pumpkins he could find. It was getting close to closing time and by the time we made it out to the pumpkin patch we had it all to ourselves! There were wagons out there to help you transport your pumpkins and let me tell you the wagons were the biggest hit, especially since they did not have to share! Nathan was determined to pull his own wagon, and Jake was very proud of the pumkin he picked out to take home.

westview orchards, part 1

2011-10-07T14:32:00.003-04:00

We had a perfect fall day to go apple picking and to the pumpkin patch. This was our first time going to Westview Orchards and I can assure you will going back again. This place is huge, there is so much for the kids to do. Instead of a tractor taking you out to the apple orchards, which is one of Jake's favorite things, this place uses large golf carts during the week. He was a little upset at first but realized the golf cart ride was just as fun and very bumpy! After picking apples and playing on the playground we headed to the petting farm. Jake loved the baby goats and bunnies, they kept trying to take his apple from him. Nathan, however was not so sure of being in the goats the house, but he was a trooper.

max's 4th birthday party

2011-10-02T13:00:00.000-04:00

We helped Max celebrate his 4th birthday at My Gym. Nathan had a blast keeping up with the big kids, and Jake was so happy to see Max and Conner, he misses not seeing them at school. The highlight of the party was when Batman came for a visit.

Going thru the carwash

Max and Batman

Jake was very excited to meet the real Batman

burr

2011-10-02T12:45:00.000-04:00

Poor Nathan was just miserable at soccer. I really could not blame him it was freezing cold and very windy! The little guy just wanted to hang out on my lap. It was actually nice to get some cuddles with him since usually he is in non stop motion. Jake did not mind the cold and overall had a great soccer game. This new league is really working out well.

basement update

2011-09-30T15:12:00.000-04:00

PROGRESS!!! I was beginning to think that there was never and end in sight. In the last few days there have been big changes. All repairs have been completed!! We now have a new floors and it has been painted. All of the molding has been changed, new doors and carpet are ordered and the granite should be installed this week. Furniture and workout equipment are scheduled to be derived tomorrow!! Hopefully by the end of the week TVs will be hung and toys will start to be back on the shelves. There is still alot of work to do, but I am so excited for it to all come together. I can't wait to host our first get together down there. Here is a quick sneak peak of the new bar area.

boogie babies

2011-09-30T15:00:00.000-04:00

David had the day off and the plan was suppose to be to go to Westview Orchards for a fun fall day. But the weather did not cooperate and we were left to figure out what to do. Until yesterday I have never heard of Boogie Babies. I would describe it as your typical kids play place that had climbing areas, arts and crafts, computers, karaoke stage, dress up stuff, little cafe and tons of tons of toys. It is pretty new so it was nice and clean and for a while we had the place to ourselves but it was never busy. It kept both boys very entertained for hours. I liked it more than Jungle Java, there was so much more to do! I love outdoor activities but it nice to find a fun alliterative.

Nathan and Macy

Nathan loved dressing up as a chef

Enjoying writing on the walls!!

silly at soccer

2011-09-30T14:40:00.002-04:00

Keeping Nathan entertained while Jake is soccer practice can be a challenge, usually he is pretty good. The other day he decided he would not keep his sock or shoes on and wanted to run around in the grass barefoot. Then he come up with a fun game of tipping chairs and falling out on purpose.

mad science

2011-09-25T19:11:00.002-04:00

Jake helped his buddy Austin celebrate his 5th birthday!! Mad Science came and did many cool experiments with the kids. Some of the highlights were making candy molecules, making slime and blasting off a rocket!! it was an action packed party to say the least. Happy Birthday Austin!!

I think Jake ate all of his molecules

Add caption

mixing his green slime

a different view

2011-09-21T12:55:00.002-04:00

Today was a big day for Nathan, he swam in the big pool without me at Goldfish! I watched from behind the glass. I was so proud of my little man he could care less that someone else was holding him and dunking him underwater. He loved every minute of the class and was sad was his 30 minutes were up. Jumping in was his favorite part!

jordan's 3rd birthday

2011-09-18T14:53:00.002-04:00

Today we celebrated Jordan's 3rd birthday at Farmington Gymnastics. I really need to sign our little monkey Nathan up for gymnastics classes, he was in he element. Both boys had so much fun at the party and LOVED all the climbing, swinging, jumping, and running around!

Jordan the birthday boy

loved the foam pit

nathan LOVED sliding in to the foam pit

daddy being a good sport in the foam pit

erwins apple orchard

2011-09-17T16:01:00.001-04:00

I love this time of the year! In our house when fall comes it means it is time to go pick apples. After soccer we meet with the Elysa, Austin and Jordan at Erwins for apple picking. The highlight for Jake today hands down the was tractor ride, he did not even want to get off to pick apples! Luckily there were a few stops along the way. Nathan of course loved all eating all the apples, he would take a bite drop the apple and freak out till we handed him another, usually he had two in his hands at all times. A day at Erwins is not complete without cider and donuts, to bad the bees were horrible we ended up finishing our snack in the car. We are already planing on going to Westview Orchards and Upland Hills Farm for more fall fall activities!

nobody wanted their picture taken

Austin took this pictures, not to bad

start of new soccer season

2011-09-17T15:27:00.001-04:00

This fall Jake is playing in a new soccer league. We swtiched him so he could play with his buddies, Enzo, Brady and Logan. It is also much closer and works better with Nathan's nap schedule. I was very impressed today with Jake, he has improved so much from last season. He has so much more time on the field with this team. Way to go Jake!! It's going to be a busy fall he now has soccer practice Mondays and Wednesdays, game on Satrudays then swim lessons on Tuesdays. Good thing he likes to be busy.

daddy was wearing a hat so Jake wanted a hat

Jake and Enzo

the cheering section