Who are they?!

Do you recoginize these two?!

Neither did we! We flew into the airport in Minneapolis at midnight - tired and only expecting my parents to pick us up. That's Steve and Val (Brian's parents). They came in that disguise and wandered around us while we waited for bags, got on the elevetor with us and followed us to the parking lot. We NEVER noticed them! It wasn't until my dad informed us that he brought the wrong car so we couldn't all fit (at which point my irritation really blinded me from the people around me!), that they revealed themselves! Brian and I were shocked - the boys just weren't sure what to be! What a great surprise! It got even better - Pete was waiting to see us the next day. So much fun!!! Thanks for helping us have such a great trip!

Vacation

Tomorrow we leave for a week of vacation in Minnesota. We are so excited to see family and take advantage of some baby-sitting by the grandparents! I am sure I will have pictures and alot to share when we get back. See you then!!

Another First

Kids lives are full of "firsts". First step, first word, first haircut and many other pleasurable things. Jacob experienced another first yesterday - one that he will probably not be thankful for down the road. He had his first trip to the dentist. Since I myself am not very fond of the dentist office I decided to do the most I could to prepare him. After many talks and lots of reassurance that he would be fine we headed off. The appointment went great. He was very brave and obedient - opening when he was told and clamping down when he was told. They were commenting on what nice teeth he had and how clean they are. My pride was growing and growing! But, the fall always comes right?! At the very end of the appointment the dentist brings the x-rays over and declares that Jacob has a cavity!!!! My ego was immediately deflated and replaced with sympathy. Poor kid! Apparently he has inherited my teeth and not his dad's! Looks like it is going to be a long childhood at the dentist for him...

Father's Day

I couldn't let this day go by without bragging a little about Brian. He is a wonderful father - he mixes playfulness with parenting so flawlessly! It is not uncommon to hear one of the boys say "mommy, daddy is so silly!". We LOVE his silliness. There is never a dull moment when daddy is around - he has such a great relationship with the boys that I am so thankful for. He is such a great example of a father and husband and it is my prayer that Jacob and Noah will be blessed by that now and throughout their lives. HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!

Big Bear Lake

We recently took a day trip to Big Bear Lake up in the mountains. We brought the bikes and went for a nice walk/ride. Isn't it pretty there?
We stopped to throw rock in the lake (Noah's all-time favorite activity). The boys had their helmets on from riding their bikes and one couple walking by commented on how smart it was that we make them wear helmets so they won't get hurt if a flying rock hit them! Not our intention, but probably smart with these two since many of Noah's rocks seem to narrowly miss Jacob!
Jake got tired riding, so Brian took a turn on the bike!

The view coming back down the mountain

Camping

On Friday night we went camping at Joshua Tree National Park. I am NOT a camper, but Brian and the boys were excited so I decided to be a trooper and go along. I was a little nervous since it is snake season out here and there are Mountain Lions that live in this region, but I summoned the courage and was able to have a great time! We met up with some friends there and the boys had a great time climbing rocks and playing with glow sticks when it got dark. I would have to say that it was a good experience! One problem - now Brian thinks I am a camper and that this is going to become a regular part of our lives. Hmmm, maybe he and the boys can get a tent for the backyard and sleep out there while I enjoy the comforts of my warm, soft, king-size bed..... :)

Funny

Today Jacob informed me that if there is ever a fire we need to "drop, rock and roll"!
Too funny! Just wanted to share!

Update

Just a quick update for those of you who are just dying to hear how Noah's potty training is going (come on, I know you're out there!). I have been afraid to say anything - worried that the next day would be a disaster and I would have to take it back! It has been a week now and I think I can safely say that Noah is 99% potty trained! My big test was taking him out so yesterday we spent the morning at the park and the afternoon with friends. He did great - no accidents at all! Now I look back and wonder what I was so frustrated about? It is amazing how fast we forget our troubles... Well, now your updated. I think this will be my last post on this subject! It's about time, I know.