The kiddos.... stop growing!

Cala - age 12

Chelsea - age 8

Connor - age 5

I LOVE watching my little man in action. This time, the preschool Mother's Day Tea. He was adorable and agreed to wear the outfit of my choice. (crazy I know but I get tired of seeing him in superhero shirts.) I must have gotten 5 comments from other moms about how cute his sweater and shorts were. Pretty confident he'll not be happy about this fact one day but I'm rolling/running with it for now. Connor was a perfect gentleman despite some initial shyness. And... here is Connor's self portrait. It is actually pretty true to life... he does wear his hair like that and likes it with blue gel in it...

Mother's Day was uneventful but I did snap a shot with my 3 favourite C's. I also made them put actual thought and time into my card... even made one child go back and improve it a few times. Tiger mom, I know.

Great to be Chelsea

(yes, I'm playing blog catch-up) To celebrate CC turning 8, we took her on a little get away sans the other C's.(Cala and Connor) We decided Spokane. The night before we left Chelsea went to bed around 8 pm. But at 11 pm when Darren and I were heading to bed she came running down, fully dressed, suitcase in hand asking "Why didn't you wake me up?" She was a bit excited... and for good reason, the trip was a blast. My favourite memory first. We got separated at Nordstrom. I was alone and Darren with Chelsea. I finished my errand and went to find them. On the third floor I found Darren slumped in a chair and Chelsea was no where to be found. Darren pointed to the kids section where I headed to find her. What I found was Chelsea in a dressing room with a pile of clothes and a sales associate buzzing around the children's department trying to meet the fashion demands of our 8 year-old. The sale associate said she had never seen anything like it. It's safe to say Chelsea was in her element. She went into great detail about her "spring fashion statement" she was hoping to make. They were together over an hour and had several outfits put together. Chelsea is a fearless talker and also has huge opinions she is willing to share. It's shocking and always entertaining... this one expensive too. We did other things in Spokane, walked the river walk, stayed at a super nice hotel, swam, stayed up late, ate out and simply enjoyed the constant chatter of our little Chelsea.

My Capt. America

We are going to the movies tonight! Some of us - in costume. Isn't he so handsome. Just like the real thing!

Silver Medal Victory!!!!

Cala has been tearing up the basketball court this year and this weekend was the icing on the cake. Her city team made it by the skin of their teeth to the provencal basketball tournament in Edmonton this weekend. And - after 4 games of blood, sweat and tears, they scored the silver medal!!!!!! It was a big moment for our little Cala and being there to cheer like crazy was a huge highlight. Her cousin Tristen is also on the team - so her Grandpa and Grandma Taylor made the trip too. Between Aunt Karryn, Grandma Taylor and myself - Cala and Tristen were sufficiently embarrassed by our crazy loud cheering.n (actually even Darren was in on the action!) We are so proud of the girls and so grateful to their amazing coaches who donated tremendous amounts of time to help the team. Sports is an amazing outlet for growing girls and we are thrilled Cala has worked and excelled this year in basketball. She also asked the school basketball coach a few months ago if she could try out for the Grade 7 team. (Cala is in the 5th grade) He agreed that she could try out but no promises she would make it. Well, she made the team. Participating on that level was a great growing experience for Cala. The team of 7th and 8th graders were very welcoming to her and it couldn't have been a better experience. So glad our little girl is making such a big impression on the basketball court! Go Cala!! (tryouts for a Spring league team start tomorrow.. plus, she's already signed up for BYU basketball camp in June and July) nothing but net at our house!

They are Home!!!

After 2 years my parents are on US soul again! The said good-bye to the Philippines and their friends - now they"ll have lots of hellos to look forward to! They"ll meet a new grand daughter, see how everyone has grown and find their way back into a life full of family. Too bad I have to wai another month to see them.

Birthday Babe

How did this happen? We have an 11 year-old!! Cala is growing up far to fast for me. I am really enjoying her these days. She is a huge help and has really grown in the last year. She lives to cook and makes some great cookies. She is a good babysitter, she is amazing at saving her money, she is making huge progress on the piano and she is perfectly sweet.

For her birthday party we treated three of her friends to dinner and a movie. What fun!

Happy Trails

It's -8 outside and today skiing was just not possible. Darren bought a pass to an indoor riding arena this week and we've got great use out of it. Now, we can ride in the winter and stay warm. The kids love the freedom of the arena and the horses stay calm. Just one problem, it's not skiing. But I'm a good sport - maybe.

Dad's Day

Happy birthday Darren! We are thrilled to be spending Darren's 41st birthday with him! No work today. It just happened to be a provincial holiday and we are soaking in some serious one together. We hit our favorite Mexican restaurant and then it's off to the mall. We decided to give the kids each 20$ to buy whatever they wanted at the mall. It was a brilliant parenting move on our part. For one, no waiting in lines for a two hit kids movie we don't want to see. Not to mention the cost of it when everyone gets a treat - its over $100 to take a family of 5 to a movie. And then there was the bowling idea. A sport we both hate but the kids love. Plus that would be crowded too because of he holiday. So, it's a win win. Each kid is happy and excited to spend. :). They get that from me!

It's how you wear it

This is what Connor wore out today. He was proud of it and soaked in every second of his attire. We are proud. It's a huge step up from a few weeks ago when he had a friend over to play. Nicholas got here and Connor said, "Nick, come help me choose my outfit for the day." Nicholas speaks two languages and is smart but he has never heard any other boy say "outfit". He was confused, as would 90% of other boys Connors age be. Not mine, he wear outfits. And today's was especially memorable!

Cool Mom

I want my kids to like me. I never want them to be the teens that "hate" their moms. So, remember this Taylor's. In 2012 you mom took you out of school one day a week and had you all in skiing lessons. Cala and Chelsea, you got a private lesson and will have to reimburse me.

We live in Canada and will for a long time. Instead of spending the winter complaining about it we have decided to embrace it. Our winter family activity is skiing and in the summer we horseback ride. I'm hoping by next winter we are all doing some runs together. Connor you'll have to up your game. I spent last winter recovering from a hospital stay and a back injury. I will not be stopped this year - keep up kids!!!!

Crap Shute

My four year old crapped on our front lawn today. On purpose. How was you day?

Laugh out Loud

During our bike ride today in the hot Canadian sun chelsea said, "I'm so hot my leg pits are sweating." How are your leg pits?

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CONNOR

The baby is now 4 years-old. How did this happen? I hope I've spent the last four years soaking up every moment with my little man. There is something amazing about having a son and Connor has opened a new part of my heart that I wouldn't have otherwise known. Despite the fires, floods and hair cutting antics of the last month, I don't really get mad at him. First I figure the damage is done - so whats the point in me throwing a fit. But second, there is something so sweet, so cute, so eat-his face, love him to bits - draw to him that I can't stop kissing his chubby soft cheeks. He's quite and conniving but ridiculously charming. He's my boy.

4 things I'm loving about Connor right now.

He gets himself dressed in the morning, brushes his teeth and makes his bed. He selects "outfits" (socks included) and lays them on the floor perfectly before choosing which one.

He's a great bike-rider and loves to be outside.

He likes to go out for lunch - especially Japanese.

He's taken to wearing his church belt - everywhere.

(okay, can't stop - had to do more than 4)

Frequently says, "What the heck" before he proceeds with his next sentence.

He opens his eyes really big and nods his head really cute.

He'll do anything for a ring pop. (hope this one continues)

He can crack an egg.

Has a really bad lisp. (therapy start soon)

Has perfect aim while peeing. (seriously don't know what my sister are complaining about with their boys)

Cuts his own fingernails.

Does not like his hair messy.

Loves to help cook! His favourite item to make - sugar cookies but he calls them "cookie cutters."

He colours inside the line at home but doesn't at preschool.

Writes his name at preschool but won't at home.

Just quirky and cute and very glad he is ours! We love you Connor.

Come on Baby Light My Fire.

I smell fire. Really. Sitting steps away from my almost 4 year-old, who's quietly hunched over doing something on the kitchen floor, I decide this needs immediate attention. I caught Connor striking matches, watching them burn and the rubbing them on the tile floor just moments before the flames crept up to burn his fingers. About 12 matches were lit before I put a damper on the dangerous fun. We had a good talk about not lighting matches and getting burned. I knew he understood what I was saying and he clearly knew what he was doing was wrong. He looked guilty.

I hid the matches and moved on. A few days later, I notice the same smell. This time I run to the scene and catch him lighting a paper towel with the butane BBQ lighter. Seriously, the hand eye coordination it takes to get that contraption to light should not be so easy for a 4 year-old to master in moments. It's not a design flaw. It's a Connor flaw. We had the same discussion, this time with a stint in time out and then really hid the butane lighter as well as the steel wool, flint, mirrors and aerosal cans.

This kid is complete trouble. And this incident, a string of many messes to come my way this month. Bet you can't wait to hear what else he did..... oh and did I mention he cut my hair.

We went to Mexico!

In March, we said good-bye to a very hard winter and hello to an amazing vacation. Hands down this trip was the most fun ever! This family vacation was the perfect mix of relaxing, fun and adventure. First, Playa Car is amazingly clean and safe - as we everything in the area we saw. The beach was like powdered sugar, the water so many million different colors of blues I felt like I was in a painting. LIving so far above the equator, I've never really been in water that's truly warm. (warmer than Hawaii even) The water was perfect. It splashes on you and you don't loose your breath - imagine that! Some of the highlights, snorkel trip to Xel-ha, ice cream on the beach, family massage day, the Mexican band at dinner, going out on the catamaran and of course, being HOT! Should we rent or buy?

Here's Connor relaxing on the bed.



CC our beach bum who kept asking "When are we going to go shopping?" Seriously, because there was no really interesting shopping we saved tons of money.



Cala couldn't get enough of the waves! She had a splashing time.


And finally, Darren and I will spare the risk-ee pictures of our tan lines - But, even the whitest of the whites do tan!

A Cut Above the Rest...

Here's the long and short of it. I have decided my new hobby is cutting hair. My hairdresser is even encouraging me to go back to school and really do it. I'm adding to my list of clients. I've cut Cala's hair - which she like. Chelsea's hair - which I'm never allowed to do again. Rightfully so, I didn't listen to my her and cut WAY too much off and felt really bad about it.

I disposed of this sister's mullett when she came to stay with me in January.





I've shaved Connor's head - but really it's a just a mess so I started out-sourcing that one again.



As you can see there's been trend in our house. However, my cutting ways have caught up with me. Last week Connor came up behind me when I was sitting at the computer. I thought he was going to hug me around the next but instead, snip, snip... he cut my hair! My shoulder length bob was left with one awkward layer about 3 inches wide and 4 inches shorter than the rest. I did have this coming. Carma right. But still, my 3 year-old cut my hair!! (I have forgiven him even though I'm sure he could care less)




I was so stunned that I didn't know what to do. Damage done. Turns out I'm loving my new bob - even if it did have a rough start.

Who thinks I should permantly retire my scissors?

Hungry?

Erika to Connor: I'm going to the grocery store and you're going to stay home with Ruth. I'll be home soon.

Connor to Erika: Bring back some bacon.

She'll be mad I posted this but...

I was cutting Cala's hair (my new hobby) and had this conversation with her.

Erika: Cala, do you know what a period is.

Cala: Ya mom.

Erika: What is it - just so I make sure you understand.

Cala: (accurately describes it)

Erika: Where did you learn about that.

Cala: Duh, Mom. Judy Bloom.

I'm still laughing! Thank you Judy Bloom.

The A's have it.

The A is for ANDREA! I can't say enough about this sister right now. She kept our family together last week and this week, I'm really missing her. Andrea came on Monday and toughed out the harsh Canadian winter until Saturday morning. She made breakfast everyday, helped with the kids (Connor was revolutionized) and drove me to doctors appointments. (just to name a few things she did) I didn't lift anything heavy (see Connor) and my storage room/basement is in fine shape. I have to admit I felt guilty the entire week, knowing that I'm not doing the same for her and that she left 3 kids to come help me with mine. Guilty but very grateful.



She showed me a very effective way of dealing with Connor and his demands and tantrums. She holds out one hand and gives him one option, holds out another as she explains the second option. Is all he has to do is touch a hand to let you know what he wants. This has proved invaluable. He refuses to talk when he cries and not letting him have a voice makes him worse. The night she left he said to me at bed time: "Do it like Andrea does." Point taken.



This little girl was a flashback to her Annie for Andrea. "Chelsea, are you ready for school?" Chelsea: "Um, well mostly, but I think I need to pack by backpack and maybe brush my teeth, then ya, I'm ready." So, there was no easier way of getting her out the door but Andrea made mornings easier by taking breakfast requests. Chelsea is now the biggest fan of Andrea's pumpkin chocolate chip pancakes. We've already repeated that one this week. Chelsea also attempted getting out of school one day by saying, 'But Aunt Andrea is here and it's special. I should really stay home from school to be with her."



And Cala, well, she's just good, listens well and is happy to be around. She would come home from school and want to know where Andrea was. Cala, was insistent we all get manicures and pedicures when it fell though one day, Andrea took us all out for doughnuts instead. Well she tried but Cala came running back to me at the table and said, "Andrea needs your wallet to pay." But still.

Andrea, we miss you and love you like crazy. For the record, EVERYONE needs a Colonel in their lives... but you will always be ours.