Things Around Here

Holly Jolly Christmas

2012-01-06T10:29:00.000-08:00

Here we are decorating the house--the kids always have fun (but I think Bryce might even have more fun).

Christmas Eve doing the Christmas nativity reinactment with friends.

To increase the excitement, Tessa lost her first tooth during the Christmas Eve party! (you will see below there are no pictures of Christmas day--apparently I only took video and forgot to take pictures)

Amy Beth came to visit and we made a fun gingerbread house.

Thanksgiving/Early Dec

2011-12-04T20:01:00.001-08:00

For Thanksgiving we visited friends in Charlottesville. We had a great time and got to see some sites and do some hiking. Thanks for a great time!

The boys at Monticello.

Bryce and Hathaway on the hike.

Tessa thinking that it was too cold.

Oakley and his friend taking a quick break--most of the time they were way ahead of everyone.

Making it to the top of the mountain.

Even Tessa liked it at the top once she had warmed up.

The family in an old fashioned sleigh at the farm Christmas celebration.

Afterward we went to find the perfect tree for our house.

Baptisms and Birthdays

2011-11-09T07:08:00.000-08:00

This weekend we went to DC to celebrate Cade's baptism and Fall and 40th birthdays. Lots of celebrating for one day. We all had a lot of fun.

Amy Beth and I did the cakes. I made them and she was the creative, artistic genious. Here she is working.

This is the fall brithday cake (white cake, chocolate cream cheese mousse inside with ganache outside).

We (the siblings) got Martha a green house for birthday, so Amy Beth came up with the decorations for this cake for her to go along with it (it is Martha garden). Amy Beth made all of the vegetable decorations herself (this was the dairy-free cake, chocolate with marshmallow frosting).

Martha and Amy Beth with the cakes.

The kids helping sing and blow out candles even though the kids pictured did not have birthdays.

The girls helping Amy Beth.

The boys playing downstairs.

Soccer

2011-11-09T07:01:00.000-08:00

Here are my few pathetic soccer pictures. We had a lot of cancelled games and the only day I remembered to bring the camera was this make-up night game. Oakley and Tessa both had a lot of fun though and improved. I figure there will be many more years of soccer and opportunities for better pictures.

Halloween

2011-11-09T06:58:00.000-08:00

Sorry, my pictures ended up backwards, so we will go through our Halloween backward. Above is the end of Halloween trick-or-treating with all the loot. We got way too much candy and will be contributing most of it to Bryce's candy bowl at church (that people have been commenting needs to be filled).

There was a snow storm the Saturday before Halloween so our ward trunk-or-treat was officially cancelled but Bryce was there cleaning and told us that people were there anyway. The kids really wanted to go, so we did.

Oakley was a vampire bunny, Bunnicula.

Tessa was a leopard princess.

Hathaway was Alice in Wonderland.

Oakley had a Halloween party when he was in kindergarten so Tessa had one this year (and we let Oakley invite a friend too). Here they are looking cute.

We carved pumpkins. Hathaway picked her out and it was very small. I thought she could just color on it but she insisted we cut it open and carve it--it turned out cute.

Fall

2011-10-17T16:59:00.000-07:00

We are into fall and having lots of fun. Here are a few things we have been doing.

Since Hathaway is home while the kids are in school, she gets to do fun things with me. Here we are at Longwood Gardens. We went when we had family in town.

My mom sent me a box of clothes that I had when I was little. My grandma made me this dress. It is a little small but I had to have her wear it at least once.

We have been doing some weekend trips. This weekend we did a girl/boy split. The girls and I went to the Poconos to stay at a cabin on a lake with some friends (who are exactky the girls ages), and the boys stayed home for soccer, working in the yard and lots of baseball and football on TV.

Firsts and Seconds

2011-09-15T15:41:00.000-07:00

Hathaway had her first day of 2 different preschools: one at Young Wonders and the other more of a playgroup with her friends from church (she cried when they had to leave). She has loved every minute of it. Today when I picked her up she said "Do you want me to tell you about my day?" And then she launched into all the excited details the best a 2 year old can.

Oakley went for his second--broken bone that is. I picked him up from school and he showed me a very swollen and bruised finger that he hurt playing frisbee at recess (and he had stayed the rest of the day without saying anything). After 2 days at various doctor's he ended up with this large splint (he broke his L hand pointer finger where it meets the hand). Sadly, he is out of soccer and piano for the next 3-4 weeks.

End of the summer and start of school

2011-09-11T15:36:00.001-07:00

Our cousins came to visit, and we decided to hit the beach the day before the hurricane (look at those waves).

Tessa, as usual, thought is got a little cold.

Bryce and I got away for a weekend to Philly and had a great night at Max Brenners chocolate restaurant and then the next day walking around--these are the famous steps to the art museum.

Tessa graduating from Safety Town.

First day of school. Tessa was so excited--first day of kindergarten.

Hazel was sick but came out for the picture anyway.

Tessa and her good friend, Nina, before going in to school.

Oak

2011-09-11T15:36:00.000-07:00

I think this picture perfectly defines Oakley this summer.

Family Pictures

2011-08-14T17:19:00.001-07:00

We finally got some update family pictures---cute!

Summer Vacations

2011-08-14T17:04:00.001-07:00

'tis the season of summer vacations. We headed west to Idaho for this familiar view--my parents from the back. Different than the East but still beautiful.

The kids had a blast in the pool and Tessa was jumping and swimming without floaties by the end. It was the most fun playing with the cousins.

We had a "Minute to Win It" competition for the Smith girls reunion.

From my parents with headed up to McCall for the George Smith reunion with all my aunts, uncles and cousins. It was fun to see everyone and the weather was great. We did some canoeing and hiking and lots of late night talking.

The last day in ID Bryce and my dad took some of the older boys canoeing done the Payetter River.

In between trips, we took an evening to go to the beach.

Last year we went camping with some friends and the boys decided to should do it every year. We went to the Delaware Water Gap to meet up with the Players again and had a great time (especially Joshua and Oakley). SO many beautiful waterfalls, fishing in the pond, great food, and a late night trail run for the girls.

Time to plan for next year!

Getting ready to go.

Friends come to Visit

2011-07-10T13:55:00.000-07:00

Before I begin, I must confess that I stole most of these pictures from Liz (stole because I didn't even ask--hope it's OK Liz). Our friends moved away and we have missed them, but I think Oakley missed his friend most of all. They came to visit and it was like they had never left. It was a great time. Hope to see you again soon!
The boys hanging out.

Going to the beach.

A few parting shots.

I think they just might stay friends for a long time despite the miles of separation.

Soccer and Pinewood Derby

2011-07-10T13:46:00.000-07:00

Oakley played spring soccer this year (because baseball is too boring). He has a great time on the the 6-7 y.o. team since he didn't turn 8 until the very end. It was kind of nice for him to be one of the more experienced players and he loved it. I think soccer might be here to stay.

This was Oakley's first year in the pinewood derby. He and Bryce worked on the car and Bryce was sure it would not be fast. But, guess what? Oak's car won the whole thing! Go Oakley! (who'd have thought....)

Happy Father's Day

2011-06-26T19:52:00.001-07:00

We have one of the best dads around. The kids were so excited to decorate his office at church for Father's Day. We heard the decorations were a big hit for branch council. Here are the pictures for the card we left.

Start of Summer

2011-06-26T19:42:00.001-07:00

We started off summer with an outing to see the Trenton Thunder. It is always a fun time. The girls were dancing to the music and the guys were into the game. Everyone ate french fries and lemonade. Everyone was happy until 9 when the girls went home and the guys stayed until the end.

Bryce and I actually had a real date, and it was a lot of fun. We spent the afternoon walking around the beautiful Longwood gardens (if you haven't been, you really should). Then we stayed to see the Indigo Girls in an outdoor concert. They were great and Bryce was a good sport, even though he only knew one of their songs.

June 4--Baptism and Birthday

2011-06-07T13:08:00.001-07:00

What a special day! Oakley was baptized at 10am at the church. It was a very nice baptism with family helping with music and talks. Oakley said he felt good when he was confirmed. I can't believe he is so grown up.

Afterward all the family went back to the house for lunch and cake.

Amy Beth helped me with the rock hopper penguin cake (didn't it turn out cute?).
The kids all played on the slip and slide until they popped it. It was a fun afternoon.

Oakley got scriptures from G&G Smith and a carrying case for them and a journal from G&G Harrison.

I love this picture with all the adults pitching in to help and all the kids waiting for cake.

The Harrisons and the Stinsons--so fun to play with cousins.

Memorial Day

2011-06-07T13:06:00.001-07:00

We continued our tradition and hiked BaldPate Mountain on Memorial Day. My sister Rochelle went with us and we had a lot of fun. It really is the perfect hike for kids--Tessa and Oakley did the whole things themselves and Hathaways did part of it.

Birthdays and Easter

2011-05-01T18:23:00.000-07:00

Whew! We made it through April with birthdays, traveling and Easter. Tessa decided she wanted a pillow pet birthday and a cake that matched her pillow pet. Here is our attempt (I know not the actual size--who could eat that much cake?). But she seemed happy with it.

She had a few friends (plus the Coxs) over for a little party. They went fishing for these little dogs and made felt animals.

She opened presents and had cake--really what else do you need? She was even happier that she got to open more presents on her real birthday.

Tessa's preschool class had a field trip to Howell farm (and it was freezing). Here she is with her friend Nina grinding corn.

Oakley and Hazel after their safety puppet show.

Can I give you a little advice? Do not travel south on I-95 the Saturday of spring break with tornados coming. If you do, you just might end up in a hotel room instead of grandma and grandpas. This is Hathaway on her birthday eating an ice cream sandwich in a hotel room instead of a cake at grandmas.

We FINALLY made it after 6 extra hours on the road. Easter dinner and an Easter egg hunt were waiting for us.

Hathaway's second birthday celebration with a cake grandma Donna and Aunt Marian made.

Once we were there, the weather in SC was great and we went be the beach with the Adamsons.

The next day we headed out to Fort Sumter on the ferry. It was the 150th anniversary of the start of the civil war. It was interesting (Bryce even let me stay and listen to the lecture, since I'm not from the south and need some instruction). The kids thought it was OK for not having any animals (although we did see a lot of dolphins).

Hathaway's third birthday celebration with the cake mom brought and made.

Finally, we made it to the Caw Caw reserve. Bryce saw some kind of kite how wanted to see (it's a bird) and the kids saw: 12 alligators of various sizes, lots of birds (including the special one Bryce saw), skinks, lizards, a tree frog, lots of catepillers...I think that is it. They were upset about no turtles. It was nice to walk around outside.

We had a great time with Grandma and Granpa and Blackie and Jesse (even though Tessa isnt showing it here).

And no trip is complete without a stop at the great dismal swamp. We had a fun time walking around and then sleeping in at the hotel in the morning while Bryce went hunting for another special bird (a type of warbler this time), and he found it. We must be good luck.

We made it home just in time for Easter. The kids had time to color a few eggs.

Easter Sunday!

A final picture: I told the kids I had checked out some books at the library. A few minutes later, I walked in and this is what they looked like. I love it!

March Happenings

2011-04-05T11:28:00.001-07:00

With the bad weather, we have had some fun indoor playdates. Here is Tessa with her friend Chase playing pirates. We didn't have the right hats for everyone, so I told Tessa that sometimes pirates did one unique thing and that is how they got their names. She became Pink Hat Pirate.

Hathaway had to dress up too. She looks like a little princess.

When I went to Stake RS Conference, Bryce and Amy Beth took the kids to the farm. Tessa was brave enough to get on the horse first, then Oakley decided he could too. I love the farm--I wish we lived on one sometimes. Good thing this farm is close enough.

Get ready....two birthdays and Easter are coming up in April. These are the invitations for Tessa's pillow pet party (you can hang the leash on your door so you don't forget).We went to Kids Town after school with some friends. Oakley ran into a boy that wasnt looking where he was going. He still has a very purple eye. He said "like 50 people at school asked me how I got my black eye."

Misc winter fun

2011-03-07T12:01:00.001-08:00

We had lots of fun in the snow this year. With Tessa's "girl" influence, the kids went for a snow princess.

Tessa and her friend at Disney Princess on Ice--very fun.

Tessa at crazy dress up day at school.

The Stinsons came and we went to visit the model train display.

Bryce had a birthday--forgot to get a picture of the cake.

Oakley was awarded his Wolf at the Blue and Gold Banquet. He worked really hard to finish and I was proud of his initiative.

Mexico

2011-03-07T11:34:00.000-08:00

...I am finally posting about our trip to Mexico. We had a great time. We started in Talum (south of Cancun--and much better, I think). We had a cute little bungalow right on the beach and maids came every morning with this fresh, Mexican breakfast.

These are the ruins in Talum. Right on the beach and beautiful. We decided we would have wanted to live there is we were ancient Mayans.

While in Talum we went snorkeling in the cinotes and out on the reef.

...look how low the roof is getting...kind of freaked me out, but it was interesting and unique.

Next stop, the middle of nowhere...I mean Rio Lagarto. The reason we went: flamingos. You cant see them very well, but they are the dots in the background. The boat tour was pretty cool, the hotel was not.

This is the highest pyramid in the area and it was only open to climb for a few more weeks (I guess someone fell off). It was quite steep but an amazing view.

Finally to Chichinitza--this is the older Mayan area.

Here we are near the famous pyramids. We had tour and it was really fascinating.

An amazing time--thanks to mom for watching the kids.

Christmas

2011-01-06T19:27:00.000-08:00

Oakley's cousins helping him put together his lego Star Wars ship.

Saying good-bye to good friend with one last play-date (for kids and adults).

Tessa and her friend at their dance recital.

The Spanish branch Christmas party (I didnt know Santa wore sun glasses).

Birthday pedicures with Aunt Heather.

Bryce made a delicious carrot cake.

Tessa helped me blow out the candle. Thanks to everyone who made it a great day!

Tessa's school Christmas program.

Taking care of Alden.

Christmastime

2010-12-05T11:59:00.000-08:00

Tessa has been asking for this little Rudolf every time we go to the grocery store. I kept telling her "next time", so last week I finally asked if we could get one when we were in the check-out line. They came back to tell us they were all sold out. Tessa looked at me with very sad eyes. I asked if they were getting more and they said they didnt know (I was feeling bad at this point). Finally the sale associate came back and said we could have the display if we wanted it. I jumped on that, and said to bring it over. Tessa looked at me and said, "Whew, that was a close one". Now the kids tell everyone ours was the last Rudolf in the whole store.

We tried to get a few family pictures for our Christmas cards--here are a few I like. Thanks Amy Beth for taking them.

I love this one because they all look so happy.

By the end we were all done!

Tessa's preschool had a gingerbread house making day. It was a fun time. Hathaway liked eating the candy the most and Tessa liked being with her friend Nina the best.

Saturday morning Bryce and the kids went and cut down our Christmas tree (I staye home with Hathaway who was sick). They picked out a really nice tree for us this year.

Hathaway doesnt look happy in this picture but I had to put it in since she looked so cute in this dress. It was the dress that my mom made for me for my first birthday.

Wedding cake

2010-11-21T12:35:00.000-08:00

A couple in the Spanish branch were getting married and didnt have a cake so I offered to make one. Here it is--my first wedding cake. It was fun and I learned a lot.

Christmas Spectacular

2010-11-21T12:32:00.000-08:00

This year Tessa and I went with some friends to NYC to see the Rockettes in the Christmas spectacular. It was a fun show and we all had a good time. Here we are leaving.

Tessa watching the show.

Waiting for the subway on the way home.

More Halloween

2010-11-21T12:26:00.001-08:00

The kids decorated our car for the trunk-or-treat.

Halloween evening we had dinner and some game with friends.

Halloween preparations

2010-11-21T12:13:00.000-08:00

We started off the Halloween season with the traditional jack-o-lantern carving. The kids had a fun time creating theirs.

Tessa and Oakley also created the concept and design of their own costumes this year. Tessa was a dragon princess and Oakley a black pirate.

Oakley had his first piano recital on Halloween as well--in full costume.

Here we are at the ward trunk or treat.

Fall

2010-10-24T18:23:00.001-07:00

We needed to update a little about our fall happenings. Tessa started pre-school two full days a week. She has loved it and it has been a good schedule for all of us. Here she is on her first day.

We have been to the zoo a lot the fall since we have a pass and we always have fun.

Hathaway and her little friend in the tree house.

Oakley started cub scouts this year. We have had to juggle that with soccer, since they fall on the same night much of the time, but he has like both.

Look, the zoo again, I told you we went a lot.

The girls just looking cute.

Since I am a room mom, I got to go with Oakley's class to the aquarium. Oakley of course loved it and I was glad that I took tylenol before I got on the bus---it was pretty noisy (but fun besides that).

Oakley has surprised us by how excited he has been about soccer and how well he has done. He has improved a lot over last year and it has been fun to watch him.

Oakley was sad that so many zoo trips were taken without him, so on a school holiday we swapped Hathaway for one of his friends so that we could do "hard-core zooing".

A quote from the boys, "Isn't the zoo a great place to learn about how to use maps." They are from the same mold.

Sadly, one of our good friends is moving, so we decided to take a girls day in the city. We went to the temple and then got to visit the Chloisters, a small museum that is part of the MET. We had a great day--Liz you'll always be an honorary smith sister.

And a final zoo shot. Oakley and Bryce got to go on an overnight at the zoo (hence no picture because it was dark and no flash allowed). But they did get to decorate pumpkins that were then given to the moneys to play with.

If we had twins, this is what it would be like. We got to take care of our friend for the days who is just a few weeks younger than Hathaway. We had fun but we are glad most of the time we just have one.

A day at the farm

2010-09-12T12:36:00.001-07:00

Saturday we went to our favorite farm (Howell Living History Farm). It was back to school day with tours of the old school house. As the day rolled out, our kids' personalities did too. Oakley could not be pulled away from the stream where he was looking for any animal he could find, so Bryce stayed with him while Tessa, Hathaway and I went on to the school house. Oakley found salamanders, frogs and fish and Tessa spend most of her time writing and coloring on an old school slate. Oakley wants to be a herpetologist and Tessa wants to be an eye doctor....they seem to be on the right track.

First Day of 2nd Grade

2010-09-12T12:33:00.001-07:00

Oakley started 2nd grade. We walked to school with the Cox family, which is becoming a tradition.

Labor Day Weekend--the Last Hurrah before School

2010-09-12T12:21:00.001-07:00

We tried to get a lot into the weekend before school. We went to Boston to visit some friends and family and see some of the city. We got to see my old roommate, Anna (above) and spend some time on Harvard campus the first day we got there.

Here we all are trying to rub the lucky golden toe. I dont know that we had that much luck since our whale watch was cancelled due to the hurricane.

Here is Bryce's old volleyball court with a new net. He used to play in the Rhino intermural league (see photo below for rhino). Ahhh, the glory days with a lower net for lots of spikes.

The rock fountain was lots of fun.

The next day we went to the public gardens and commons. Here are the kids with the Make Way for Duckling statue. We even walked the ducklings route along Charles Street to the gardens.

Here we are in the Frog Pond on the commons. Aunt Amy Beth joined up with us.

Then we headed for home on Sat. Monday we decided to do our, what is becoming annual, hike to Bald Pate mountain. The kids are getting to be good hikers. A nice end to the long weekend.

Trip to the zoo

2010-09-12T12:18:00.000-07:00

The next day cousins came for a quick visit.

We decided Hathaway would really like the zoo now, so we decided to get a year pass. They all loved it--I am sure we will put the pass to good use (and we can get in friends for free, if anyone wants to go).

Camping the Delaware Water Gap

2010-08-19T09:20:00.000-07:00

Well, we finally went on our much awaited camping trip to the Delaware Water Gap. We went with some good friends, which made it even better. We all had fun and the kids slept pretty well. And, in case you haven't already heard, a bear came in to camp and stole our chocolate milk mix (Bryce saw it all). Then the bear came back while we were sleeping and left his prints on our van. We also had a visit from a skunk who kindly cleaned up all the crumbs in our camp. Plus fishing, swimming, exploring, hiking, camp programs... What more can you ask for in a camping trip? Oakley and his friend fishing--they look pretty experienced, don't they? Unfortunately, they didnt catch anything.

First night of s'mores. Yum!

We all made it to the top of Mt. Tammany--a little harder hike than we expected but it was fun. Oakley and his friend ran up like mountain goats--I could hardly keep up.

Kids on the hike.

They found lots of critters.

Lake Anna

2010-08-18T09:56:00.001-07:00

I forgot to post this earlier, but the kids and I went down to Lake Anna to stay with some friends. We met up at Mount Vernon.

Here are all the kids on the couch.

Some of my best friends in the world---thanks for the fun time.

Summer Fun

2010-08-18T08:56:00.000-07:00

Here are a few things from this summer. Oakley has been going to farm camp at Howell Living Farm and absolutely loving it. He found some salamanders under these rocks.

Tessa and one of her best friends, Chase. She dressed up like a princess and he dressed up like a pirate....isn't it a match made in heaven?

Tessa has been very in to taking pictures this summer and this is one she took of the family--I thought it was pretty good.

The kids went to Bible school again and loved it.

We went to the beach a few times and always have fun. We go in the evening so it is cooler and Bryce is there to help. We went with Marian (Bryce's sister) and her son, Alden. Both Alden and Hathaway fell asleep on the way home and had their legs over their seat...how cute.

Tessa loved playing at the beach with dad. (well she just loves everything about dad and this is one of them)

Time in Idaho

2010-07-04T20:33:00.000-07:00

We had a terrific trip to ID, including all the things you expect from a trip to a small farm town and time with family. Lots of fishing and time with cousins.

We went to the nature center and saw fish and animals (although not as many animals as Oakley wanted, he was very disappointed that we didnt see an otter and bear in the wild).

Tessa got to see a horse--which she has been talking about forever.

We went on some hikes (to the sparrow holes below--that is what we always called them, now I know they are really swallow holes) and some exploring along the river (crayfish and lizards).

And what trip to Emmett would be complete without a trip to Roe-Anns, the local drive in.

Farewells and Reunions

2010-07-04T20:17:00.001-07:00

My dear friend, Leigh, moved this month. A few friends had a small dinner party for her. I will really miss having her right down the street.

While I was out west, my parents watched the kids while I flew down to SLC. I got to spend the day with Jeanel, an amazing woman and friend from college who is battling cancer. We picked up right where we left off. I loved spending time with her and her family.

Wow, 20 years, really. We don't look that old, do we? But, yes, it was my 20th high school reunion and it was fun to see old friends.

Saturday was a family picnic in the park. Here I am with two great friend Blu and Jodie.

My friend Craig invited the kids and I up to his parents farm for the morning. Colby's family was there too--lots of fun.

I am so glad my guy friends from high school married such amazing women: Laura, Michaela and me

Saturday night we had a dinner. Here's me with Adam, Troy and Colby.

The class on Saturday night.

Tessa's preschool graduation

2010-06-13T15:00:00.001-07:00

Tessa had a fun time in preschool this year, especially with her friend Chasey. She was excited about a silver balloon.

Statue of Liberty

2010-06-13T12:16:00.000-07:00

Having lived in NJ for 7 years, I had not yet been to see the Statue of Liberty. My sister came into town to go with her boys. I left the girls home and Oakley and I had a nice day with cousins. Here we are leaving NJ.

Ellis Island was interesting to me and my sister, but the boys were quickly ready to "move on" and see the statue. Their favorite part of Ellis Island with the gift store.

Here we are in front of the original torch.

It's always nice when you fit just perfectly in the nostril of a statue.

Oakley climbing up the stairs to the top of the pedestal (crown tickets are sold out through the end of Aug).

End of a fun day

Oakley's 7th Birthday

2010-06-13T12:08:00.000-07:00

Wow! Oakley is 7--he always has been and still is the absolutely greatest boy I know. Every year his cake choice is a challenge, and this year was no different: a snow leopard.

2 great friends Hazel and Joshua!

Blowing out the candles.

Here he is eating his chosen dinner: bacon, potato latkes and artichokes (what a combination).

He also had his last baseball game. He had a fun year and improved a lot.

Oakley's b-day camp trip

2010-06-13T12:02:00.000-07:00

Remember Oakley's family goal? Here is our second camping trip. He picked to go camping for his 7th birthday. We had a lot of fun but not a lot of sleep!

Fathers and Sons Campout

2010-06-13T12:00:00.001-07:00

This year during family goal setting in January, Oakley asked if we could have a goal to go camping more this year. So, here is the first camp trip of the year with him and Bryce.

Happy May

2010-05-10T11:31:00.001-07:00

Hathaway loves this tiarra that Tessa got for her birthday and always wants me to put it on her. Isnt she cute?

Tessa's preschool had a mother's day presentation-_Tessa did a great job.

As a Mother's Day treat I took a quick trip to Boston with my friend Kristin. I saw my friend Claudia's new baby--so cute, walked around Beacon Hill and Back Bay on a sunny morning, had lunch with old work friends and went to the JFK Library (not too bad for 2 days). It was nice to come home and be with the kids after some time off.

Small dinner miracle

2010-05-03T16:24:00.000-07:00

My kids ate everything that I cooked for dinner, and much to my surprise liked it all....
Menu:
Turkey tenderloin
Mashed potatoe pancakes
Artichokes (they loved dipping and scrapping...who knew?)
Strawberries

Hathaway is 1

2010-04-18T13:41:00.000-07:00

Hathaway woke up happy on her birthday morning. Then, she got to go in her new car seat to the store and threw up 3 times in the car when we were almost there (hence different clothes in the rest of the pictures).

Here she is opening presents. Oakley and Tessa liked it more than she did.

She liked her cake most of all and actually ate almost an entire piece! Wow--the first of the kids to eat cake instead of throw it on the floor (probably the first one to taste cake before her first birthday too).

We sure love you Hath!

Bath time again!

Tessa Birthday: It Finally Came....and Passed

2010-04-18T13:29:00.000-07:00

Tessa had been crying almost everyday because she wanted it to be her birthday. If finally came, and she slept with this present so she could open it right when she got up.

Then we went to the Please Touch Me Museum in Philly to celebrate both girls' birthdays.

The kids had fun--here they are pedalling a flying bike.

Hathaway had fun too!

Then she got to open her presents and she liked them all a lot.

Mom and Tessa made the princess cake and this is Tessa blowing out the candles, her favorite part.

A few days later she had a few friends over for a bird/princess party (see the cupcakes). We had a lot of fun and mom decided 1 hour is the perfect length for a 4 year old party.

....Tessa cried again when she went to bed because her birthday had passed.

Trip South

2010-04-18T13:10:00.001-07:00

So for Easter weekend, we headed south. We spent the first night in DC visiting family there. The first day in South Carolina we went to Charleston Landing. It was really beautiful and we saw an alligator, turtle and an old boat--what could be bad about that?

This is the old boat.

Here's the turtle.

On Easter we had an Easter egg hunt--Grandma Donna had lots of eggs for the kids to find. We had fun, watched conference and ate Easter dinner.

Even Hathaway found some eggs.

The last day we went to a plantation, which was blooming and really pretty.

Then we headed home and visiting NC and family there. We got to see Duke University.

A little story

2010-03-30T22:13:00.000-07:00

Mr. and Mrs. Irish Potato
by Oakley Harrison
Look at my friends Mr. and Mrs. Irish Potato. I'll tell you about them. They live in Ireland in a little blue house. They have 3 kids. Mr. Potato is a chemist. They like to read. That's all I know about Mr. and Mrs. Irish Potato.

"Mom, can you tell that I used some things about our family when I made up this story?"

I love it!

Scout Hike

2010-03-27T12:24:00.000-07:00

Bryce and Tucker on the Scout 10 mile hike.

Easter...it's coming

2010-03-27T12:07:00.000-07:00

We love Spring

2010-03-27T12:06:00.001-07:00

Spring is here. Hathaway is learning to walk and all the kids are enjoying being outside (aren't you?).

Oakley's Art

2010-03-27T12:04:00.000-07:00

Oakley's art was chosen to be in the library art show. Here it is! We had fun attending opening night.

Happy Birthday Suzette

2010-03-27T12:03:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Suzette! The cruise was great!

Musuem

2010-03-27T12:01:00.000-07:00

The girls and I went to the Please Touch Me Museum in Philadelphia and had lots of fun (thanks Liz!).

Bryce's birthday

2010-03-27T11:57:00.000-07:00

Oakley helping with birthday preparations.

We had some friends over after the kids were in bed to celebrate Bryce's (and Heather's) birthday with some games.

The kids helping Bryce with his birthday festivities.

Oakley's Book Report

2010-03-24T18:02:00.000-07:00

So, these are the pictures that Oakley drew (freehand) for his book report at school. I was pretty impressed; I definitely can't draw this well. He must have inherited some of Aunt Amy Beth art ability.

Things that make you happy

2010-03-01T08:59:00.001-08:00

This came home from school with Oakley last week. It made me happy.

A visit

2010-02-24T17:49:00.000-08:00

We have had the treat of lots of Bryce's family to visit. Unfortunately our camera was broken so I had no pictures until I "borrowed" these from Marian (thanks). Here is a picture of Alden and Hathaway. Alden is 2 weeks younger but a little bigger (coming in at the 10th percentile---Hathaway is a tiny girl). They had fun playing. Hathaway could crawl and Alden couldnt so she would crawl up and grab something away from him and crawl away, turn back and laugh.
Amy Beth came for the weekend and helped up celebrate Marian's birthday. Tessa helped blow out the candles--in fact Marian hardly had a chance.

Poor Marian got delayed in a snow storm, but the kids and Bryce had fun playing. We made a snow man and Oakley and Bryce are having a snow ball fight.

Christmas and Beyond

2010-01-03T17:27:00.000-08:00

Oakley and Hathaway were up early Christmas morning and ready to get started. We had to wait a little while for Tessa.

Hathaway full of Christmas spirit and happiness, even though she had the fewest presents (but she did get to play with ALL the wrappings).

Time to open stockings.

I don't know what Tessa is saying to Bryce but she is saying it in true Tessa form. I think it was something about him needing to put the bike together.

Presents....notice Hathaway in each picture is checking things out in her own little way.

Tessa eating Christmas breakfast with her bike helmet on to make sure her dad knew she was serious about wanting to ride her bike....SOON.

Christmas breakfast: cinnamon rolls, hot chocolate, fruit and yogurt.

Bryce's sisters came to visit: Amy Beth, Bryce, Kirsten. It was fun to have them.

No vacation is complete without some movie watching---we love Scooby-Doo around here.

More cousins came to visit and help us decorate a gingerbread house.

By the end, we are all a little tired out, but we had lots of fun.

Christmas Eve

2010-01-03T17:23:00.000-08:00

We had some friends over for Christmas Eve. We continued the Smith tradition of eating hamburgers and everyone seemed happy with that. The kids acted out the Nativity and Bryce was the narrator. We feel grateful to have good friends and to celebrate Christ's birth.

Snow

2010-01-03T17:20:00.001-08:00

We got some good snow right before Christmas this year and the kids had fun playing in it. The day before Christmas we even did some sledding at the park.

Some days are just like that

2010-01-03T17:17:00.000-08:00

I love this picture of Tessa. Snow had fallen into her boot and she wasn't happy. But havent we all felt like this.

Another fancy lunch

2009-12-01T10:13:00.000-08:00

Tessa had a friend over yesterday and after we read Fancy Nancy they decided they wanted to have a fancy lunch. Here they are!

Pre-Christmas

2009-12-01T10:11:00.000-08:00

This year the kids got a pre-Christmas package with things like pajamas and Christmas books that they can use during the Christmas season. It was lots of fun.

Thanksgiving

2009-12-01T10:07:00.000-08:00

We had a great Thanksgiving with lots of family. I should have taken more pictures with everyone--but here are the few I managed to get. Bryce made the base for the pinata and Aunt Amy Beth and the kids decorated it. It looked great (probably because Amy Beth is an artist). We do have a lot to be grateful for and family tops the lists!

Holiday Outfits

2009-12-01T10:03:00.000-08:00

Here are the kids in their new holiday outfits. Tessa picked out the material for the skirts and I made them. (She has such an interesting sense of style--I never would have thought she would go for the asian looking purple brocade with golden dragons.) I thought they turned out pretty cute.

Fancy Nancy Tea Party

2009-11-19T05:06:00.001-08:00

So, Tessa and I have been wanting to do a Fancy Nancy Tea Party for a while. One of our friends came over yesterday to help us with a trial run. I was impressed with how "on task" Tessa stayed all morning helping to get things ready: cutting out sandwiches, taping flowers to straws and stick fancy toothpicks in everything. She came up with a lot of the ideas (like making cookie cutter chocolate chip cookies...which dont work very well, but she was happy). We had a fun time. She also picked out both of our "fancy" outfits.

Halloween!! (all 3 days of it)

2009-11-02T11:23:00.000-08:00

We had a lot of Halloween fun around here. Above is Tessa at her preschool Halloween celebration. She did a great job singing all of the songs.

Then on Thursday Oakley had a Halloween party with some friends from school. We had a lot of fun playing games and having treats.

Friday was the Hallween parade at school. Our cousins and Oakley before the parade and Oakley during the parade.

Then the big day was finally here!

Oakley had his last soccer game in the morning.

Then we dressed up and went to the church party and trunk or treat. Tessa and Oakley won the best costumes and came home with a bucket full of Halloween pretzels and a prize. They were very excited.

Oakley was a pirate and Tessa was a Barbie 3 musketeer (a princess with a sword, as she called it). Hathaway had a costume but we never quite got it on her so she just celebrated with her Halloween shirt.

Finally we went trick or treating with the Cox family and some other friends. It was fun to see people from school out trick or treating too. There was plenty of candy to go around and all in all it was a great day.

Starting to Eat

2009-10-25T17:37:00.001-07:00

1st Day of Halloween Week

2009-10-25T17:26:00.001-07:00

Tonight we started getting ready for the week of Halloween. We carved pumpkins and made home-made doughnuts. We all had lots of fun and the kids did a great job creating the faces for the pumpkins. It is such a fun holiday.

Random Sampler

2009-10-24T19:26:00.000-07:00

Oakley told me that this was the best day ever because he played great in his soccer game and we had ham for dinner (if life were always this easy). He really did have a great game and was just glowing when he told me the coach asked him what he had eaten for breakfast because he had the game of his life. I guess we will always have to have crepes on game day.

Tessa told me her two favorite things to do were to swing on swings and to read books in bed with me (because it is so cozy).

Hathaway didn't scream for the first time when I put real food in her mouth and her first bottom tooth broke through.

The Girls

2009-10-18T13:43:00.001-07:00

Tessa got a new dress, so we took a picture of all the girls. Here we are.

A fun trip to Portland

2009-10-17T08:32:00.000-07:00

Hathaway and I decided we needed a little get away, so we went to visit some friends in Portland, OR. First we went to see the Schwins just outside of Eugene. Kristin has been a friend since kindergarten and she has a daughter, Kaitlyn, who is 2 weeks older then Hathaway. We are sure they are destined to be friends too.

Then we went to see Laura and Colby just outside of Portland. I have known Colby since kindergarten too and was roommates with Laura in college. It was great to see them and their family. They really pampered me.

We had a great, relaxing trip and Hathaway was a great little traveler. Yay for fun trips!

We Love Aunt Suzette

2009-10-04T13:21:00.000-07:00

Party at Dad's Work

2009-10-04T13:16:00.000-07:00

Bryce's work had an open house/work picnic. None of us have ever been to Bryce's office so the kids were so excited to go to the party at dad's work. Above, Bryce in his chemist's clothes. Below, the kids found Bryce's models and thought they were more fun then legos. We had a great time.

It's finally here

2009-10-04T13:13:00.000-07:00

OK, we are big nerds, by die-hard fans of Trader Joes. They finally built one just a few miles from our house. So we got a babysitter and went on opening day to check it out (Bryce's idea). Yay! We are so glad.

Fall Fun

2009-10-04T13:05:00.000-07:00

Oakley and his cousin Hazel are on the same soccer team. The coach has been great with the kids and Oakley has enjoyed the season so far. I think that he has learned a lot about the game.

The kids are getting excited for Halloween. Tessa tried on this costume and insisted on making a mask.

Tessa is getting to be a good baker. Here she is helping me. She can crack eggs and without getting shell in!

Hathaway update

2009-09-18T06:23:00.000-07:00

Here's Hathaway in the cute outfit from Aunt Cherie. She had her appointment at CHOP yesterday to look at her leg. She has a vascular malformation. Now she needs to have an MRI to evaluate what exactly is going on in the blood vessel. Then we can decide what needs to happen next.

Tessa first full day

2009-09-18T06:16:00.000-07:00

Tessa had her first whole day of preschool and absolutely loved it. I think she was made for school. Below she is with her friend before they go in the first day. (Also, can you see that Tessa has a little bit of a black eye? That would be from her and Oakley batting each other with bats--which was quickly outlawed.)

First Day of School

2009-09-13T13:42:00.001-07:00

So, it's official; school has started. Oakley started 1st grade and Tessa had her meet the teacher day for preschool. They both seem ready and happy for the new year.

2009-09-13T13:37:00.000-07:00

For Labor Day we went on one of our favorite hikes, to Bald Pate Mountain. Amy Beth was visiting and we had a fun hike. Oakley took the picture below of the view at the top. Then we came home and had hamburgers and homemade almond cream cheese ice cream (yum).

The Last Hurrah

2009-09-13T13:31:00.000-07:00

Before school started, Lisa and I took all the kids up to the Poconos for a few days. It wasnt that long of a drive and it was really beautiful there. The kids were in heaven with lots of rocks and water and outdoors to explore. We did a pretty big hike up to some waterfalls and Tessa did pretty much all of it by herself. Oakley has become a little mountain goat and it a great hiker. We really had fun--thanks Lisa.

Summer Fun

2009-08-27T08:28:00.000-07:00

I thought that I should put up a few pictures from things we have been doing this summer. We have had fun and are not sure where the time has gone...school is in 2 weeks.

We went on a little family vacation to the Berkshires in Western Mass. We rented a little house on a lake and had a fun time. Here we are on the top of the highest peak in MA, Mount Greylock. We drove up and then did some hiking.

There were lots of lakes for swimming and playing.

Oakley was a great little hiker.

Oakley and Bryce had a great time fishing off the dock at the end of our yard. They caught several of these little guys.

We jointed the community pool in our area and have enjoyed swimming almost every day. Oakley has become a great swimmer and can even go in the deep end now. Tessa has become more confident in the water and even Hathaway has liked splashing around.

Below are a few more pictures of our vacation in West Virginia with the Smith Family.

Dancing.

Bryce went hiking with some of the guys at Dolly Sods.

We hiked to Blackwater Falls.

Family vacation

2009-08-02T18:42:00.001-07:00

We had a great family vacation with my family in West Virginia. It was a beautiful area and the house was great (each family had 2 bedrooms). The cousins had a great time playing together. Here are a few photos.

Tessa's playdate

2009-08-01T08:40:00.000-07:00

Tessa just loves dogs. Her nursery teacher has a cocker spaniel puppy and she invited us to come and play one morning. Tessa had the time of her life with Mia (the puppy) and I think Mia had a fun time too.

A week without dad

2009-07-12T21:15:00.001-07:00

So Bryce was off to Scout camp last week. A week of horse back riding, waterskiing, mountain biking, rock climbing, hiking....and a tent full of 14 year old boys. While he was gone we managed to entertain ourselves and even take over a few of dad's jobs.

Oakley learned to give Hathaway her bottle (usually dad's job).

We visited cousins in DC for a few days.

We got along most of the time. But, we sure do like it better when dad is here.

4th of July

2009-07-12T21:01:00.001-07:00

This year our family celebrated the 4th of July for about 3 days. We started off the festivities watching the Hamilton fireworks on Thursday night (which were really nice, by the way). Friday we had a hike to the top or Baldpate Mountain (the 2nd highest point in Mercer County--not that that's saying much). We had a picnic and games when we got to the top. The kids were great hikers and we had an all American meal of hummus, pitas, potato chips and rice krispie treats (can you tell who picked the menu?).

Saturday morning we had our traditional waffle breakfast, which is always a lot of fun. Bryce was in charge of cooking waffles again (and it looks like he ate a few too).

Saturday afternoon we went to Howell Living Farm for games and homemade ice cream. We got there a little late but dad got there in time for the last batch of homemade strawberry ice cream.

School's out for the summer

2009-07-12T20:54:00.000-07:00

Oakley had a great year at school. The class finished the year with a Red, White and Blue and Cowboys Too, presentation. We felt so lucky that Mrs. Flagg was Oak's teacher this year. He made lots of good friends too.

Hathaway's Blessing

2009-06-09T13:27:00.000-07:00

Grandpa Gary and Grandma Donna were here for the blessing. They helped entertain the kids with lots of books.

Hathaway did great for her blessing and didnt even cry. We sure are happy to have her as part of our family. We appreciate everyone that came to visit this weekend.

Oakley's Reptile and Amphibian Party

2009-06-09T13:19:00.001-07:00

Oakley had a fun birthday party with friends on Saturday. There was lots of baseball to fill in the gaps of the rest of the activities.
Bryce and Oakley made a pinata that everyone had a chance to try and break open.
Opening presents.
Oakley (also can view new hair and new short cast) with his turtle birthday cake.
A close up of the pinata.
Craft project: decorating snakes.

Oakley's Birthday

2009-06-09T11:53:00.000-07:00

Our boy isn't so little anymore--he just turned 6. On the day of his birthday he got a new hair cut and had a party with the family. I will post the pictures of his friend party later. We sure are happy he is part of our family.

Growing up

2009-06-09T11:51:00.001-07:00

Just a little update to see how the kids are growing up.

Looking like a girl

2009-05-24T13:43:00.000-07:00

A quick update: As you can tell by the picture above, Tessa seems to have adjusted to being the middle child and still has a lot of personality. Our friend Cydney made Hathaway a cute headband that you can put different bow, flowers, etc on. It is super cute and helps Hathaway look very girly AND it actually stays on! (thanks Cydney)

Amy Beth's show

2009-05-10T06:05:00.001-07:00

This weekend Bryce went to see Amy Beth's (his sister) final art show. Here are some pictures. Congratulations Amy Beth on your show and on finishing grad school.

Update

2009-05-10T05:55:00.000-07:00

So here are some updated pictures: Hathaway a little older and Oakley with his signed cast. Oakley's arm looks good and he is now running all over the place with a cast. He even played basketball at a friend's house.

Grandma

2009-05-10T05:49:00.000-07:00

I got a few more pictures to share of when grandma was here. She helped Oakley make some shorts from an animal print material that he cut out. Happy Mother's Day to a wonderful Grandma!

Breaking News

2009-05-02T12:56:00.001-07:00

In case having a new baby doesn't keep you busy enough, I had a urgent call from school on Thursday to come take Oakley to the emergency room. He had fallen off a play set and broken his arm (and it was obviously broken when I saw it--the hand was not really at the end of the arm like it was supposed to be). The x-ray showed the both radius and ulna were broken and dislocated. They had to put him under and set the bone. He had a rough first few days and nights but he seems to be doing better now.

Trying to keep the kids entertained. We got Oakley a coloring desk to match Tessa's.

And a few other pictures from before my mom left.
Little Hathaway.
My mom with the grandkids.
My mom made Hathaway's a blessing dress before she came--she looks so pretty. Thanks mom!
...and what about Tessa. I think she is feeling a little neglected but has a strong enough personality that she forces us to pay attention--we still love you a whole lot. And Bryce and I are trying to get enough sleep and keep up with the kids. Who knows when our house will get cleaned.

Welcome Hathaway!

2009-04-20T17:32:00.000-07:00

Hathaway was born at 8:01am, Thursday April 16. She was 7 pounds 14 oz. We think she is super sweet and are happy to all be home now. Oakley and Tessa are in love with her and cant stop going over to look at her. We feel very blessed.

Tessa's Party

2009-04-14T19:19:00.000-07:00

For Tessa birthday she said that she wanted to dog and baby party, so we tried to accommodate both. She was a sick with a bit of a cold but I think she had a fun time.

Tessa's Birthday

2009-04-14T19:11:00.001-07:00

Tessa wanted a dog birthday cake, so I made these little dog cupcakes for her to have on her real birthday and to practice for the big cake for her party. Also, note the cute pajamas she got for her birthday from Grandma Donna and Grandpa Gary.

Oakley decided to use his own money to but this little kitty as a present for Tessa birthday. He thought she would be good to play with his two big cats: Ella and Sketcher. It was a great gift.

In the morning we took the kids to the Safari at Great Adventure and they had a fun time.

Tessa was up early in the morning on her birthday ready to open presents. The presents from G&G Harrison had arrived the day before and she remembered they were there and that she could open them on her birthday.