Cooper, Party of 4

Free Yogurt Day

2012-02-06T18:00:00.001-08:00

Sometimes it's ok to eat dessert first.

A Day in the Life...preschool

2012-01-30T19:05:00.000-08:00

Both Jack and Molly were very lucky to go to St. Paul's Preschool.
It's a wonderful place to be.

In a typical day, Molly can be found doing many things at school.

Painting:

More painting:

Wood-working:

"I'm protecting my eyes, mom"

Molly designed, hammered, and painted this robot:

Crafting:

Sharing:
(this is sharing about our adventures with class mascot, Pinky the Pig)

Adding to her portfolio:
(yes, she calls it that, too)

Lately, she can be found playing post office.
They bring, mail, and receive 2 valentines each day.
Each day, the kids have different roles to play.

I am so thankful for all the people who make St. Paul's a special place.
(especially Molly's teacher who takes hundreds of pictures each month...
and, of course, Nana, who makes it all happen!)

four is...stupendous!

2012-01-10T20:13:00.000-08:00

*The word four has four letters.
In the English language there is no other number
whose number of letters is equal to its value.

*Many things are arranged in fours.
There are four suits in a deck of cards, four points of the compass,
and four phases of the moon.
There are four wings on a bee and
four leaves on a clover, if you are lucky.

We celebrated Molly's 4th, doing what she wanted to do.
A train ride to San Juan Capistrano to see the animals.
See her in the window?

They have naked guinea pigs there.
Or "SKINnea pigs" as they called them.
They were really creepy.
But not to my animal loving 4 year old.

Then we went to Disneyland.
This is the only picture that I took.

Then a family dinner and cake at Papa and Nana's.
So far, 4 is pretty fun!

p.s..There are only 4 words in the English language which end in 'dous': hazardous, horrendous, stupendous and tremendous

last day for 3

2012-01-06T20:37:00.000-08:00

Dear Molly,
When I kissed you goodnight, you were still 3 years old.
Tomorrow, when I kiss you good morning,
you will be 4.
Tonight, at dinner, your big brother said,
"My gut tells me that Molly is going to do well as a 4 year old."
I think Jack is right.

thanks, 2011

2011-12-31T19:27:00.000-08:00

We will open the book. Its pages are blank.
We are going to put words on them ourselves.
The book is called Opportunity and
its first chapter is New Year's Day.
~Edith Lovejoy Pierce

We've had a wonderful year.
2011 had lots of wonderful memories.
Here are a few highlights...
January- I started something new
and Molly turned 3!
February- My heart and focus on PUCK and EB Awareness.
March- Jack turned 8!
April- I took my first newborn pictures!
May- Bella's Birthday celebration...and GLEE!
June- while not a "highlight", Jack's cast definitely kicked off our summer
July- a busy summer and exciting news at the fair!
August- we had a great trip to Ohio and really bonded with the wildlife!
I got to document a very special birthday.
Jack started 3rd grade.
September- my kids agreed on a common interest!
October- We went to the Tiller Days, again!
November- We went back to Ohio!
December- Molly sang her heart out at her Christmas program!

Thank you, 2011 for every memory.
Thank you, readers, for reading!
Looking forward to 2012!

sweetest sound

2011-12-30T19:20:00.001-08:00

So, I am convinced that there is no sweeter sound on the earth,
than a baby laughing.
If you don't believe me, watch this video of me & Julian..

Christmas, Part 3

2011-12-29T15:05:00.000-08:00

Santa left a nice note,

thanking Jack for the roll of tape he left,

along with the cookies, milk, and carrots.

Our tiny tree and presents.

Jack read Balto this year,

and was happy to get the DVD!

Molly got her "petting zoo legos" that she asked for.

Of course, more Legos.

Molly plays a new game on the DS with her new Happy Napper.

After brunch at my parents, we came home and played

with the new toys...and then got dressed up for Christmas dinner.

We were greeted at my aunt and uncle's door by...

SANTA!

This was pretty cool...Molly was completely in awe.

She didn't know what to think!

But, we had to get a family picture :)

After another yummy meal,

the kids opened more gifts.

The kids were very spoiled this year!

We also took advantage of all the cousins being here this year.

As my aunt was taking our picture with Santa,

she said "Awwww...you guys are all grown up!"

Never too old for a picture with Santa!

I've gotta find a picture of us from when we were little!

Merry Christmas, blog readers!

Thanks for spending another year reading about my crazy little family!

Christmas, Part 2

2011-12-29T14:33:00.001-08:00

We celebrated Christmas Eve at my sister's house with her family
and my mom and dad.

Molly was quickly entertained by Jacob's sound effects machine.
She would put it behind her back to make "that" noise all night long.

After a yummy dinner, the kids attacked the presents.

There was one LEGO set that Jack REALLY wanted...

and he was SO surprised to see that Nana and Papa got it for him!

I love these pictures, because it's genuine JOY.

Molly was pretty content with her animal clinic,
complete with ALL kinds of animals.

The kids are growing up way too fast.
Here's evidence:

Christmas, Part 1

2011-12-29T14:10:00.000-08:00

Christmas Part 1 starts at Molly's daycare.
They decorated a ice cream cone tree.

I made these snowman cookies!

They even had a jumper!

And the kiddos sang a few songs for the parents.

Once again, these ladies SHOWERED our kids with gifts.
Molly loved her build-a-bear so much!

The next day, I celebrated with MY friends.
We had a small group this year...
All of us graduated together, and most of us have known each
other since 7th grade.
I love these girls!

Changing the World...one drawing at a time.

2011-12-22T15:56:00.000-08:00

This is Ali.
She's Bella's big sister.
She wants to help cure EB.
She likes to draw.
I was lucky enough to be her first customer.
Bookmark her site.
Enjoy.
Be inspired.
(she's 5, by the way!)

Melting

2011-12-21T13:24:00.001-08:00

more tradition

2011-12-19T16:31:00.000-08:00

Another Christmas tradition for the grandkids
is decorating Papa and Nana's tree.

It's fun to watch them go through all the "old" ornaments.
Most have the year written on them or they are
handmade ornaments from when my sister and I were kids.

Jacob is growing TOO tall TOO fast,
but Jack wanted to help decorate the top sections,
so he used Molly's chair..

Then, he started a new tradition by jumping off after every ornament.

He perfected his moves with each jump.

In true little sister form, Molly had to follow...

Also, a tradition, is the Snoopy House,
which got moved to the City Hall this year.

I remember going to the Snoopy House every year,
for as long as I can remember...
It's fun to see my own kids enjoy it, too!

Masterpiece

2011-12-13T20:21:00.000-08:00

Today was Molly's Christmas chapel at preschool.
I took the day off and stayed all morning.
I love watching her in her element.
(That cool striped painting on the wall is hers. I love it!)

Lining up, wearing her bell.

For some silly reason, I loved this picture.

She did so well with all the hand motions :)

Singing "Silent Night"

She's a goofball...but I love her to pieces!

This video is really long...
But, if you want to see some cute songs...you should watch.
The little guy in front of Molly was a riot!
And, if anything, watch the LAST song...
Something about these little kiddos singing "I Am a Masterpiece"
makes me so emotional.

On another note...3 more school days till MY break! Woo Hoo!

Vegas, baby...(a little late)

2011-12-12T18:48:00.001-08:00

We went away (before Thanksgiving!) for a few days...
Back to Vegas!
We stayed at the Aria...it was really fancy!

We went to the Shark Reef Aquarium,
where we met up with an old teaching buddy and her kids.

So, so much fun watching our kids together.
The older boys quickly bonded!

We explored our hotel a bit...visited the Gelato stand just a *few* times.
But, for me...I preferred the crepes station.

Off to the MGM to see the lions.
The trainers put the meat ON the glass so they get real close.

Spongebob ride at Excalibur.

Molly totally cheated on SkeeBall.

Checking out the toys at the Bass Pro Shops.

The kids are watching a fishing demo.
Papa would be so proud.

Lots of pretty things at the Bellagio.
Including this crazy, talking tree.

Enjoy Vegas entertainment.

After a friends birthday party, where there was a magician,
Jack has been pretty interested in magic.
So, I found the cheapest magic show and got us two tickets.
This guy has tigers, too!
Because of our VIP tickets, Jack got to "get close" with them.

During the show, Jack actually got called UP on the stage to volunteer.
He "helped" do some tricks, and while taking his bow,
the pretty assistant kissed him on his cheek.

Now, he loved it.
But, was also very embarrassed.
He told me as we walked back to our hotel
that he was NEVER telling anyone about "that last part".
Little did he know, he had those big red lips on his cheeks the whole time.
Which I loved.
And photographed.

When we got to our hotel,
he saw the "evidence" in the elevator mirrors.
When we got to the room,
he IMMEDIATELY went to the bathroom and scrubbed it off.

While we were at the show, Molly and Ken went to the Mirage
and had some "up close" time with the dolphins.

This week, Jack said that Las Vegas was his favorite city :)

Time to Decorate!

2011-12-08T17:35:00.000-08:00

Before the fashion show,
we decorated gingerbread houses.
It's a really special tradition with some really special people.

Each year, the houses get more detailed.

Each year, the sheer joy is visible.

Each year, the concentration is more intense.

Each year, I think they taste more than they decorate :)

For flashback purposes:
2010 Gingerbread Houses.
2009 Gingerbread Houses.
2008 Gingerbread Houses.

It's fun to look back and remember wonderful memories...
This is a tradition that I hope will last a long, long time!

Fashion Show

2011-11-28T19:45:00.000-08:00

While enjoying an evening of Gingerbread House decorating,
Molly decided to do some dress up.
Usually, playing dress up is so NOT Molly...
When she came out with the wig,
I figured I had seen all of her dressing up for the evening.
But I was wrong.
Which one do YOU like best?
Outfit #1...
Outfit #2...
Outfit #3...
Outfit #4...Outfit #5...

Outfit #6...

Outfit #7...

Dressing up, it seems, is much more fun when
you have a "big kid" friend to help you.
And to share their old dance costumes with.
Thank you, Christina!
(Christina was also sweet enough to give Molly a few
outfits to take home).

Thanksgiving!

2011-11-25T19:50:00.000-08:00

We had another yummy Thanksgiving dinner with our family!
I tried to get a decent picture of my kids...
This was it...

When I told them to make a silly face,
this is what I got:

We have so much to be thankful for!
Happy Thanksgiving!

Full of Thanks....

2011-11-17T17:31:00.000-08:00

So, so, thankful.
For my sweet, sweet, son.

Fall Trip

2011-11-11T15:10:00.000-08:00

One of the first things we ended up doing in Ohio last month,

was having lunch at the Olive Garden and then doing the
bungee jump at the mall.
You know, just so the kids felt at home and all.

Jack perfected his flips.

Molly just worked on her overall form.

An Ohio first for us, we also went to the
Cleveland Museum of Natural History.
It was a pretty cool place,
with lots to look at.

Jack was THRILLED to learn that Balto was at the museum.
He just finished reading the novel in class,
and it was fun to watch him enjoy the exhibit (and gift shop section dedicated to Balto!).

I wanted to photograph ever "fall" moment I could...

Saturday finally came, and it was time for Meghan and Joe's wedding.

Molly was able to spend lots of time with "her" Becky.

The kids danced and danced and danced...
We stayed late celebrating with the newlyweds!

While our summer trip is longer,
it was wonderful to go back and experience "fall".
More importantly, to be there with our niece
and her new husband as they start their new life together.

Happy Halloween!

2011-11-02T21:25:00.000-07:00

We got home on Monday afternoon,
after a great trip to Ohio for niece Meghan's wedding!
(More pictures of that later!)
Came home, carved pumpkins, ordered pizza, got dressed,
and went out for some trick or treating!

Jack really wanted Angry Bird jack-o-lanterns.
Molly designed the one on the right.

Jack's costume is from Bakugan. It's a dragon of some sort.
Molly INSISTED on being SuperWhy!

She also insisted on NOT wearing the mask to trick or treat.
I insisted on at least ONE picture with it on.

The kids had a good time,
but, we really tired after flying home.

Happy Halloween, everyone!

CHOC WALK 2011

2011-10-16T20:41:00.001-07:00

We had another wonderful walk today.
Team Bella walked through Disneyland with our fabulous socks.
Together we raised over $1,000 in Bella's name.
So wonderful to honor her again.

This was the sign outside the Little Miss Matched sock store at Downtown Disney.
How perfect for Team Bella!

Front of our sign, and our fabulous sock shot!

Back of our sign...I just couldn't use last years...had to make a new one!

Team Bella at the castle!
(see the fairy godmothers in the back? so cute!)

meeting Stormtroopers

Phineas and Ferb!

The cheerleaders cheered us on at the end of the walk.

Whether you walked with us, or donated...
Thank you.
And next year, please consider joining our team.
There is something very inspiring about being there...

one year...

2011-10-12T21:29:00.000-07:00

Dear Bella,

Hard to believe it's been one year.
For one year, I have worn my fabulous socks,
and have thought of you each time.

It was pretty awesome to be with your family yesterday.
I hope you liked your purple balloons.

Did you hear your big sister's amazing words?
She's pretty remarkable...but you knew that already.

Can you believe all the wonderful people who sent letters to your dad!
How wonderful to read about you much you mean
to so many people,
in so many places.
Did you get my Jack's balloon?

He cried and cried a lot for you last night.
But, before bed, he thanked me for bringing him to the park.
He felt that you would've loved to have been there.

It's been one year.
But we love you just as much.
If not more.

We all watched quietly, as the balloons floated up...
closer to you...
You are so greatly missed.

Thank you, Ringgolds, again, for sharing your sweet, sweet baby girl with me.
My life is forever changed because of her.

(For those of you who didn't know,
I will be walking in this year's CHOC Walk,
leading Team Bella through the streets of Disneyland.
The walk is this Sunday, and it's not too late to sponsor me.
Should you want to donate in her memory, you can do
so on my page. Thank you!)

same sweet face

2011-10-09T08:56:00.001-07:00

I took this picture WAY back when Molly was a tiny 15 month old.
(You can read about her blanket love here).

Yesterday at Disneyland, she decided to take a rest while
riding "It's a Small World" and I took this picture.

Same. Sweet. Face.

Tiller Days tradition

2011-10-02T09:34:00.000-07:00

We go to the Tiller Days every year.
We meet up with friends,
eat good food,
and ride lots of rides...

It's lots of fun to go back and see how much bigger the kids are!
Last year, Molly jumped for the first time!
Here is 2009!

There's 104 Days of Summer Vacation...

2011-09-26T19:25:00.000-07:00

...if you are a big Phineas and Ferb fan,
you know what I mean :)

When I found out that the Phineas and Ferb LIVE! Show was coming
to Long Beach, I knew we had to go.

The show, is something that BOTH my kids can enjoy,
and that makes a happy mom!
This picture, of my two kiddos,
seriously makes me laugh.
It's *so* them.

I tried to get a *nice* picture,
but these two were very silly,
and just wanted to go inside and wait.

Jack picked cotton candy as a treat,
and it came with this Phineas hat, which Molly soon claimed as hers.

Jack posed this picture himself...
copying the silhouettes of Phineas and Ferb on the stage.

It was really fun watching both my kids enjoy the same show,
when normally one TV has Star Wars on
and the other has Nick Jr.

Immediately after the show, both kids wanted to know if we
could go again...
and we sang show tunes all the way home!

on my heart

2011-09-20T20:55:00.000-07:00

You may remember last year, when Team Bella was formed to walk for Bella Ringgold in the CHOC Walk. You may also remember that Bella passed away days before the walk, and we walked in her memory, raising about $4,000 together! This year, we again will walk together to celebrate Bella's life, and at the same time, raise money for CHOC.

However, something has come up.
I am still very much 110% Team Bella.
And I am 200% dedicated to walking next month.
But...now, I have another friend to walk for.
His name is Jamal. He started Kindergarten in my class on August 29th.
He turned 5 a week later.
And, a week after that, he was hit by a car while riding his bicycle.
And, last night, he was transferred to CHOC.
Right down the street from me.
While he is off all pain meds, and breathing tubes, and his bright brown eyes are wide open, Jamal is still unresponsive.
His family, including 4 other brothers, remains faithFUL.

I have always written that we have always felt so blessed
to have never "needed" CHOC for our own 2 kids. We have been so very lucky.
But, now, one of my "kids" is there...
and for that reason, I am encouraged to walk even more.
If you would like to support me in the walk,
you can join Team Bella...
or you can donate directly to my walk page.

I am so thankful for all have you that have donated in the past...
Thank you for helping me in this cause. It's very close to my heart.

I took this photo yesterday, as I left....
next time I visit him, he will be at CHOC.

Thanks, Koki's

2011-09-13T18:59:00.000-07:00

Our favorite restaurant closed...
Too bad, because Molly was just starting to get good
at catching her dinner.

third

2011-08-29T18:55:00.000-07:00

"Why do we always take a picture on the first day of school?"
My THIRD grader asked this morning.

Because, dear Jack, we want to remember that day...
It goes by so quickly.
And while you look back and think about
your backpack choice for each year,
Mom and Dad think about how much you are growing.
I think third grade will be lots of fun for you.
You have another great class, full of lots of great kids.
Today, your report back to me about the first day was positive:
"We didn't do any multiplication OR division...we learned about the rules...
we learned about expanded form...I tried to find all my old friends at recess.."

You are happy.
I am happy.

I saw you today, twice, as I was running around campus getting stuff
for my Kinders ready.
I saw you twice, and each time, you ran up to hug me.
I am so thankful for those little visits,
and wonder how long they will last.
When you are a 4th grader, will you still blow me a kiss across the playground?
When you are a 5th grader, will you still want a note in your lunchbox?

I know, that's a long time away...but, weren't you just starting second grade?

Or first grade?

I still remember your first day of Kindergarten!

This is why we take a picture on the first day of school.
Have a great year, Jack.
We are proud of you!

Julian

2011-08-24T17:38:00.000-07:00

As the pictures for this post were uploading, I thought of 100

things I wanted to say about them.
But none of them seem to be enough.

I was so honored to be able to take these pictures for the Ringgolds,
as they welcomed Ali and Bella's baby brother into the world.

At first, I thought I would be taking pictures from outside the nursery...
like this one of Tim, singing to Julian...
but, a wonderful nurse let me inside to meet this sweet, sweet face.

Julian Clayton Ringgold
August 22, 2011
9 pounds, 2 oz.
20.5 inches

It was remarkable for me to be there.
This, my friends, is why I love to be behind the camera.

Julian was about 4 hours old when I met him.
I'm already in love...

And then, to be there when he met his biggest sister?
Priceless.

My heart is so happy for them.

Tim & Angelique...
Thank you for letting me share this moment with you.
I will carry it with me, as I do Bella.

I took A LOT of pictures on Monday.
If you would like to see more, you can watch this slideshow,
which is set to Julian's Song.

JUMP!

2011-08-20T19:09:00.001-07:00

My kids love to jump.
In California and Ohio.
So, every year, we go to Zero Gravity.
Which is like a Pump It Up party jump place.

At the mall, we saw this...
and well...they had to jump there, too!

The good thing is...jumping this much makes the kids tired.
So, they slept well on vacation!

Great Lakes Science Center

2011-08-20T14:43:00.000-07:00

One of the places our kids love to go in Ohio is
The Great Lakes Science Center.
They have cool stuff indoors and a cool play area outside as well.

Jack's favorite is a giant ball pit,
with a machine that drops the balls on your head
as you wait below.

The view is pretty cool...
The Rock 'N Roll Hall of Fame is next door.

The weather got a bit intimidating,
so we stayed inside most of the time.
(It's really hard to photograph lightning, by the way!
I stood out there for a LONG time!)

They have a cool little gift shop,
Molly tried on ALL the glasses that they had.

It's always fun to watch the kids re-discover the same exhibits.
It's a fun tradition!

where the wild things are...

2011-08-15T20:29:00.001-07:00

While in Ohio, we went with our friends,
the Sladkys, to the African Safari Park.
The kids got to ride a camel...

and "win" a free ice cream for traveling the farthest distance to get there.

We met a really big snake, named Frank.
(I love Molly's expression in this picture!)

Then, we got ready to drive thru the zoo.
Yep, drive.
We had NO idea what was in store for us.
Molly was cool and calm.

Oh...hello, deer.

Hello, llama.

Time to roll down the windows...
As soon as we did, crazy things happened...

The kids could hardly believe it.

When this guy approached, my window was up.
Whew.

But, Molly's was down.
She was cool with it though.
She's my animal loving girl!
(This bison is drooling all over her...and she looks like it happens all the time..no big deal!)

Jack was not as enthusiastic as Molly.
Ken was the most surprised, I think!

Then, this guy shows up, and we all sort of panic a bit.
We heard his horns up against the rental car...
Jack said "Not our car. Not our problem!"

The kids did feed him.
Better to keep an animal that large happy.

These were the sweetest friends we made :)

By the time we got to the giraffes, they were not hungry...
But they were still cool to look at!

This may be a new Ohio tradition.
What an exciting day!

More Ohio pics to come...you know I took a gazillion more!

makin' a splash!

2011-07-28T19:46:00.000-07:00

We met some of our favorite mommies and kids at Pioneer Park.
During the summer, they have a cool area just for water play.
The kids loved every minute of it.

Thanks, mommies for a fun playdate before our vacation :)

we really aren't...

2011-07-22T17:29:00.000-07:00

..beach people.

But,

once a year

to pretend

that

are.

team Bella & Tripp

2011-07-20T19:21:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, we had a Team Bella dinner,
to celebrate our first Birthday Bash.
Ali and Bella's baby brother, Julian, will be here SOON!

It's important for me, again, to bring up EB.
It's just horrible. I can't imagine.
And, if you have ever read Tripp's blog,
you can't help but want to do something about it.
Please pray for Tripp.
He's really suffering now.
It takes my breath away.
Pray for his mom, Courtney.
She's an amazing young lady.

Visit their blog, leave them a comment.
Become "friends" with Courtney on Facebook.
They need to feel all the love that they can.

opening day

2011-07-15T18:48:00.000-07:00

The line to get into the fair was CRAZY long when we arrived.
We walked around to another gate, and a very nice fair employee let us in
the employee gate...nice way to start the day!

Another perk to free parking today, was the Friday food tasting.
Every Friday, you can get a sample of food at each booth, for $2.00.

Which meant, half a corn cob for Molly.
As well as pizza, half and half a corn dog.

We had a coupon for a free game...and we played the
"winner everytime" fishing game.

They have a very cool thing for kids ages 6 and up.

You can download a form, and if they read 2 books,
they get 3 free rides!
The fun house mirrors, however, are free.

Jack and I paid $1.00 to see the gigantic Florida crocodile.
Molly loves the petting zoo.

And it was pretty exciting to see this:

We bought SuperPasses this year,
which means...
We will be back...
But, there is just something about opening day...

win! win! win!

2011-07-12T08:44:00.000-07:00

I think I enter to win everytime Beki gives something away on her blog.
She's got some new designs which are super cute:

I still "need" this one...

So, if you want to win, go to the Rusted Chain, and leave a comment.
Easy, right?
And then, if you win, you can always give it to me!!

NKOTBSB+MM

2011-07-07T15:39:00.000-07:00

Just like last time, I went to the New Kids concert last night.
They were joined by the Backstreet Boys.
But, more importantly, Matthew Morrison was there, too.
I pretty much adore him.

But, even better than Matthew Morrison was having some girl time with friends
from the original New Kids days...(hello, 1989).
I went with Kelly (again), and was thrilled when I got a text from Tori,
who had flown in very last minute.
She and her sister were there, too!
So, we ditched our seats, found an empty section,
and enjoyed the show together!

(this is a horrible picture, but I had to document it!)

Happy 4th of July!

2011-07-04T21:14:00.000-07:00

Summer Fun #1

2011-07-02T20:54:00.000-07:00

I am totally behind in my blogging attempts this summer.
But, it's summer.
And we are busy having fun.
Here's some highlights...
(Jack's cast comes off on Thursday!)

OC Fair....my news!

2011-06-18T19:04:00.000-07:00

So, it's big news for me.
Only because for the past few years I have said I would enter some pictures.
This year, I finally did it.
And, 4 of the 6 that I submitted have been accepted into competition.
Here are the ones you can look for if you find yourself in the photography building.

Thanks to everyone, for supporting me on this little adventure!

bummer, summer

2011-06-16T20:45:00.000-07:00

After a long day yesterday, we finally came home.
Green cast and all.

Jack had a crazy random "fall" on the field yesterday.
Fell just right.
Fractured his elbow.
But, he's been a trooper, and has handled it better than we would've EVER expected.

He missed his last day of school today, and we will
now start changing some of our daily summer plans...
No pool, or karate...or park play for 3 weeks.

He DID manage to do a Lego set today...whew!

strawberry fields forever

2011-06-14T20:12:00.000-07:00

I was able to take the morning off and go with Jack's class on a field trip!
He was so happy to have me there, and I have to admit,
it was nice to be on a field trip wearing my "mom" hat.

We went to Tanaka Farms, in Irvine.

(When I look at this picture, I can't believe Jack is going to be a third grader!)

After the tractor ride, we got to pick our own strawberries.
I got a basket to fill, and so did Jack.
It's a good thing Molly LOVES them!

They also have watermelon tours, cook out tours, pumpkin tours,
Christmas tree tours, and a very cool
Community Supported Agriculture program.
I think we may have to take my 3 year old veggie and strawberry lover back this summer!

sooooo cute!

2011-06-09T21:06:00.000-07:00

Lately, Molly has been in a phase where everything "little" is cute.

So, if I say, "look at that little puppy", she replies, "Awwww...it's SOOOOO cute".

At Disneyland, at the Baby Care Center, they have little toilets for potty training kiddos.
"Awwww...they are SOOOO cute".

Anything she interprets as "little" is automatically classified as
"SOOOO cute!"

And, by anything, I mean....
anything.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-06-08T21:06:00.000-07:00

L.A....

2011-06-07T18:26:00.000-07:00

While Jack was being famous on Hollywood & Highland,
Molly was obsessed with getting pictures taken with all the characters.
And, when I say characters, I mean characters.

Thank you, Jackie Cooper, for being 8 years old when you got your hand & footprints outside the theater.
I hope you don't mind that we covered the "ie" to make it work for MY Jack Cooper, 8 years old.

famous

2011-06-06T15:56:00.000-07:00

Did you know that Jack Cooper, 8 years old,

has his hand and footprints in front of

Grauman's Chinese Theater?

competitive

2011-06-02T21:43:00.000-07:00

I am really competitive.
I like to win silly games at baby showers.
And, I want to win some photography stuff.

So, can you go HERE and click the "like" button.

I mean, you do like this picture, right?

Memorial Day

2011-05-30T13:08:00.000-07:00

The dead soldier's silence sings our national anthem. -Rev. Aaron Kilbourn

I have long believed that sacrifice is the pinnacle of patriotism.
Bob Riley

Would you rather....?

2011-05-29T20:36:00.000-07:00

Would you rather eat delicious BBQ....OR...
donate to a wonderful cause??

Tough decision, right?

NOPE!
You can do BOTH! Starting TODAY, 5/29/11 thru
THURSDAY, 6/2/11, you can eat and donate!

Print this flyer, and come to the Tustin Beach Pit BBQ
(it's SO good!), and they will donate 15% of your bill back to P.U.C.K. in honor of Bella!

Cool, right? You could even go EVERYDAY if you want!
We will be there Thursday...come say HI!

(please feel free to re-blog this, or Facebook it!)

GLEEk

2011-05-28T19:36:00.001-07:00

My wonderful husband got me GLEE tickets for my birthday!

We dropped the kids off for a sleepover at Papa & Nana's,
had a nice dinner out,
and headed to the Honda Center.

We ran into Tracy and her mom!

I was allowed to bring in my camera.
But, only brought the little one with me.
This was the best picture I got of the big stage.

BUT, there was a Stage B, in the middle of the floor seats, where we had our tickets.
And...much to my happiness, I was able to get lots of pictures of my favorite GLEE peeps.
Including, the dreamy Blaine, and the Dalton Academy Warblers.

This was one of my favorite moments from the show:

I loved every minute...and am a proud GLEEk!

Bella's Birthday Bash

2011-05-22T20:05:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful day yesterday.
Lots of people. Lots of smiles. Lots of laughing.
Lots of love.
Sweet Bella, Happy Birthday.

To those of you that donated to PUCK, donated at the event, or came to celebrate...
Thank you.

family dinner

2011-05-13T22:06:00.000-07:00

We had a YUMMY family dinner last week,

to celebrate my birthday and my mom's birthday.

Of course, we went to Koki's.

This guy puts on quite a show.

Jack nervously tries to catch rice in his mouth.

Molly prefers to eat it herself, no need to throw it at her.

Look at this face...she's such a mini-me.

36...and 600??!

2011-05-05T20:30:00.001-07:00

What better to way to celebrate 36 years

than to take a little stroll down memory lane.

(This is also my 600th post!!)

(about 1 here)

(and 2 years old here)

(and about 4 here)

(5 years old)

(7 ish?)

(8ish?)

(4th grade..)

(6th grade. I know. Sweet costume, right?)

(7th grade...so stylin'...gotta love all those bracelets!
This was in Michigan. Why my grandmother took my picture in the restroom is a mystery!)

(8th grade graduation party..)

(senior year...winter formal. I really did have a date...really.
But, they were trying out this "new" background and wanted single pictures. Really.)

(1996- my parents still have that kitty!)

(1997?)

(Brazil- 13 years ago!)

(our dating stage!)

(pregnant with Molly)

(meeting McDreamy, 2008)

Good times, eh?
So, if you've been around since the first picture, or the last,
I thank you for making my 36 years full of good times.
I feel so blessed!

2nd grade

2011-05-04T21:00:00.000-07:00

Jack, second grade, 2011.
Me, second grade, 1982-1983.

Easter

2011-04-24T20:35:00.000-07:00

We've come a long way since Molly's first Easter :)

We listened, on the monitor, as Jack woke Molly up.
My kids have serious bed head.

Then, off to church and an egg hunt.

Then, to Nana's...

for egg decorating, more egg hunting, and a yummy ham dinner.

Molly also decided that she could "juggle".

Happy Easter!

thank you, Facebook

2011-04-16T17:00:00.000-07:00

I was really itching to take some newborn photos.

So, I made it my facebook status.

And...

TA-DA!

You can see more here.

(15 day old, Noah!)

Fingerprint Friday

2011-04-15T17:44:00.000-07:00

We had Papa Red's service today.
He and Grandma Purple will be buried together at Riverside National Memorial.
I was really doing ok during the ceremony, until my Jack got weepy.
My sweet, sensitive boy...
We tell him he will carry Papa Red in his heart forever,
and because they share a middle name,
that is something very special.

Listening to the summary of my grandfather's life...
Fingerprints. Everywhere.
We miss you, Papa Red.
Very much.

For more fingerprints, visit The Rusted Chain.

if the shoe fits

2011-04-10T21:16:00.000-07:00

We spent the morning celebrating Ali's 5th birthday!
It was at a sweet little tea house...every girls' dream come true.
A whole room of dress up clothes, make up, hair, manicures...

Molly couldn't be bothered with any of it.
Except for the shoes.
She LOVED trying them on!

But, when she found these,
her search for the perfect pair had ended:

After the fashion show, it was time for tea.
What a fun time, listening to these little girls, giggling away,
pretending to be grown ups.
Molly loved the pink lemonade!

Happy Birthday, Miss Ali!
We had a wonderful time!

doll

2011-04-09T15:04:00.000-07:00

I am working on scanning LOTS of old pictures for Papa Red's memorial.
I am having fun looking back on so many memories.
I found these 4 pictures...and had to share them.

Way back when I was in 3rd grade, all I wanted was a Cabbage Patch Doll.
But, they had just come out, and there were wait lists and they were VERY hard to find.
This is me. After all the gifts had been opened at my grandparents house.
Could I look any sadder?

My Grandpa Purple waited a few minutes and then sent me to
the back bedroom, for one more present for Papa Red.
I remember that moment like it was yesterday.

And I still have that doll.

don't you want one?

2011-04-05T18:10:00.000-07:00

I am not a huge jewelry person.
But, a few months back, I went CRAZY
and bought 2 necklaces for myself!

This one:

and this one:
(well, mine has a "j" and an "m")

And today, the Rusted Chain is giving away some gift certificates...
and I am pretty sure I am going to win this time.

So, I am debating between this one:

or this one:

Don't you want one, too?

our third Prom picture

2011-04-01T16:50:00.000-07:00

The official photo has been released.
This years Mother & Son dance picture.

And, because it's fun to compare:
Here's my date in 1st grade.
And here he is in Kindergarten.

blue

2011-03-31T18:09:00.000-07:00

(Thanks to Reece's Grandpa for some of these great blue shots!)

friendly letter

2011-03-31T16:38:00.000-07:00

This is a letter Jack wrote for Mrs. Smith, who is a volunteer reader at our school.

She reads to Jack's class once a week.

I adore reading his writing...
and Mrs. Smith told me she does, too!

USS Midway

2011-03-27T21:43:00.000-07:00

This weekend, we put the kids in their place.

Just kidding!
We rode the train to San Diego, and after a yummy lunch in Little Italy,
we explored the USS Midway Museum.

I love our family days!

special delivery

2011-03-23T19:42:00.000-07:00

Jack really likes to get mail.
This week, he got something VERY special.
It was from my cousin, Jared.
Jack has been pretty emotional about Papa Red,
and Jared wanted to share some perspective.

This is where I kick myself for not having a picture of Jack with Jared!
So, here are the cousins...

and a super old one of me and my "baby" cousin!

Thanks, Jared, for being a wonderful role model for my son.

zoo...but, no animals

2011-03-18T16:02:00.001-07:00

We spent the day with our friends at the Santa Ana Zoo today.
(Thanks to a district furlough day!)

I was so busy taking pictures of our kids,
I hardly noticed any animals!

Thanks Ana, Mia, Daniel, Jessica, Milan, and Dean...
We had lots of fun!

even number

2011-03-15T19:03:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Jack was an ODD number.

And now, he's an EVEN number.

That's what he told me when I visited his class to drop

off a small birthday treat.

His class and teacher made him a sweet little card.

While I was there, the kids got to ask me some questions

about Jack when he was a little boy.

Then, the teacher asked the class to share some

of the things that they liked about Jack.

My heart was exploding to hear their sweet words.

I wasn't surprised, but it's always nice to hear!

Jack got to pick the agenda for the evening.

So, we ended up at the new LEGO store in South Coast Plaza.

Followed by dinner at the Rain Forest Cafe.

He picked a new set and used some birthday money to buy it.

(Thanks, Grandma and Grandpa Cooper!)

As he ate his birthday sundae, he declared it,

"the best birthday ever!"

Now, this last picture...

Could be a wordless Wednesday,

but I don't want to even wait until tomorrow.

For all my friends with preschoolers.

Enjoy this time with your little ones.

It goes by SO fast.

And even though that may make you a little sad....

Don't be.

Because before you know it, your kid will hand you a note.

And it will make your heart swell with love.

8...(big sigh)....8!

2011-03-14T20:00:00.000-07:00

Dear Jack,
Tonight is the last night I can say I have a 7 year old.
I saw the "8" candle at Nana's yesterday, and I got teary.
8 years.
Wow.
Tonight, as we left the bookstore, you said, "Here is your birthday present, Mom".
And gave me a hug.
"My birthday present?" I asked you.
"Yes, because you've been a mom for 8 years".

(I still had 2 months to go when I took these pregnancy pictures!)

(for those of you that didn't know, Jack was just under 10 pounds at birth...look at those cheeks!
This is me, being wheeled out from the hospital, bringing home baby Jack Austin!)

(Proud Papa Red...Jack and Papa share the same middle name)

(first trip to Vegas, for Uncle Joe's tournament)

(Jack and Daddy...)

(Jack and some friends)

(first birthday lunch)

(cousins at Jacob's soccer game)

(Jack in Santa Barbara)

(train phase)

(celebrating your 8th Birthday at Nana's)

8 years.
Amazing.
We are proud of the big kid you have become.
You are sweet, smart, silly, loving, dramatic, creative, sensitive, funny, enthusiastic...
and I cannot wait to see what the next 8 years will bring.

Happy Birthday, bud!

A Night Under the Stars

2011-03-12T08:12:00.000-08:00

Jack and I had our third Mom & Son Dance Date last night.
(Kindergarten Dance here. First grade here.)

They did such a great job decorating the MPR at our school.
We walked the red carpet, and were greeted by the paparazzi.

Jack found his star!

...and he found his dancing moves!

After the dance, we went to Yogurtland with the Liconas!

As Jack's 8th birthday is quickly approaching, I caught myself wondering..
"How much longer do I have for moments like these?"
Surely, in a few years, the Mommy & Son dance may not be on the top
of his list of fun things to do.
For now, I will take as many of these moments as I can!

Papa Red

2011-03-06T20:29:00.000-08:00

We said goodbye to Papa Red this weekend.
It was completely expected, and yet, still so hard.
It broke my heart, to tell Jack, who cried with me for a few minutes.
I told him that we would always have wonderful memories of him.
Jack said he would always remember that "Papa was in the Navy".

How blessed my kids were to have had a GREAT grandpa.
How blessed was I to have a grandpa so great.

(Papa's senior picture, 1943)

(U.S. Navy, 1944)

(World War II)

(Papa Red, my Dad, uncle, and Grandma Pearl)

celebrating a birthday

Family Shot, December 2010

We went through a bunch of old photos today at my parents' house.
Some were funny, lots of good memories...
Like, this one.

The day after telling Jack, he came to me, and said,
"You know. I still miss Papa Red. I am still sad".
"Me, too", I replied, " me, too".
and then, in his almost-8-year-old wisdom said,
"...(sigh)...if only life had a re-set button".

Arrrrrr....

2011-03-03T21:22:00.000-08:00

Jack and I had a date tonight at the Pirate Dinner Adventure!

We were assigned to the purple pirate.

This guy, the bad pirate captain, is also the same guy
that does the Jedi Academy show at Disneyland.
We recognized his voice right away!

I love spending time with Jack one on one.
Cheers!

another baby and poop

2011-02-28T19:12:00.000-08:00

(how's that for a blog post title to get your attention)

So, the other night, we were leaving the mall, and Jack asked me,
"So, Mom...do people choose if they are going to have another baby?"

not really wanting to go "there", I replied with a simple,
"Yes, people choose to have babies".

After a long pause, he replied...
"Sooooooo....we are choosing NOT to have another one, right?
Because that would be like double trouble with Molly".

Later, Molly read her favorite book, Everyone Poops.

Joy

2011-02-25T19:11:00.000-08:00

Molly wasn't feeling good this morning.
And, by morning, I mean 2:00 a.m.
She was SCREAMING because she had an ear ache.

Luckily, Nana saved the day. She came up here, and stayed with Molly while I took Jack to school and got my sub plans ready.

This video isn't from today, but this is how we feel when Nana comes over.

public service announcement

2011-02-23T17:18:00.001-08:00

I am interrupting this blog for a public service announcement...

Some of you never "knew" Bella...and sadly, never will never get a chance.

But, I want you to "meet" someone that I don't even know.

Tripp also has EB.

Please watch this video...

Go ahead...I will wait :)

Now, want to help find a cure for EB?

Text BELLA to 50555 to donate $5 to the UofM EB Research!
Type YES to the confirmation text.

How easy was that?

nothing new here

2011-02-22T18:42:00.000-08:00

Well, except that this little girl is a champ on the potty now.
I learned from my experience with Jack to just keep it low key.
And that's working so far.
We are so proud of her!

Oh...and these came in the mail today!
That's pretty exciting!

Did you see the pictures I took at the park last week? Cute boys!
I want to also thank all the support as I venture out into the photography world.
It's been a fun leap so far!

and the Oscar for best writing...

2011-02-16T22:50:00.001-08:00

...goes to Jack Cooper.

He's clearly thinking of big things.
Flashbacks and Explosions.

No romance, just yet...

I said I wouldn't...

2011-02-09T16:35:00.000-08:00

but I did.
I was only going to post my "photography" shots on
my other blog.
That's what I said.
BUT, then, I took these...
and well, how could I resist??

I am pretty committed to helping the Ringgolds find a cure for EB.
They deserve it. All EB babies deserve it.
So, if anyone wants a photo session, knows someone
who may, or if you want to give a session as a gift,
here's what I am doing through Bella's 2nd birthday in May:
(or longer if we still need money for P.U.C.K.)

$75 session
$25 donated to P.U.C.K.
30-45 minutes
20-30 edited pictures on a cd
* Now, I SAY 20-30, but, as I learned with Brooklyn,
I take WAY more that that!

MNPK: Molly & Nana Pizza Kitchen

2011-02-01T17:28:00.000-08:00

Since making soup together was so much fun,

Molly and Nana made pizza last week!

Again, Molly tasted everything as she worked.

The sauce was yummy!

Also, note the tiny bites out of the crust...
which happened while Nana wasn't looking!

Cheese...some for the pizza,
some for her mouth.

Sneaking the pepperoni...

Waiting...

Delicious!

Thanks, Nana, for taking the pictures!

dogs, frogs, snakes, and cake!

2011-01-31T18:23:00.000-08:00

We celebrated Molly's 3rd birthday at California Pets.
We had a fun little group of friends,
and LOTS of fun animals!

She was SO happy!

The puppies were first to visit!

Then, a bearded dragon.

Molly embraced ALL the animals, including the snakes.
Which she happily wore as a necklace and a crown!

She loved her Toy Story cake.

And was very excited about blowing out the candles!

Now, obviously, I couldn't post ALL the pictures.
So, should you need to see more...here you go!

This free slideshow design customized with Smilebox

the happiest place...

2011-01-29T21:44:00.000-08:00

We've been planning this super cool playdate since October.

We were happy that it finally worked out to meet Mia and Salvatore at Disneyland!

What a fun day!

I love watching these little friends together!

(my life) Behind the Camera

2011-01-26T20:53:00.000-08:00

So, I started a new blog.
I felt like I needed a place where I could let my pictures do the talking.
And it's forcing me to take one more step toward
using my camera for something other than pictures of my cute kiddos.
I have some ideas...and this blog is the beginning.

bounce house

2011-01-23T21:03:00.000-08:00

At our first party today (yes, we had two to attend),
Molly spend A LOT of time in the bounce house.

(look closely at her fingers and mouth..and you can
see that she also spent time eating Cheetos.)

When my mom saw this picture, she said...
"That picture, right there? That is YOU"

More birthday pictures to come ;)

Molly and Nana's Adventures, Part 1 and 2

2011-01-20T19:35:00.000-08:00

Molly and Nana have been busy!
Last week, they made a big pot of soup together.

Molly tasted all the veggies, including the onions.
She said they were "tasty".

Adding celery, like the Wonder Pets :)

This week, Molly didn't have class at preschool.
So, they headed to the Santa Ana Zoo.

It's the perfect little field trip for them.
Molly retold the whole day's details when I got home.
She added "and finally" to every sentence.
" We went to the zoo, and finally, we saw monkeys.
Finally, we went on the train and the merry go round.
Finally we got a panda and pencils for my Jack"...

Thanks, Nana, for the fun days!

"M" mode

2011-01-18T19:59:00.000-08:00

So, we went to the park.
And I made myself turn off the automatic setting.
(The workbook we got at our class says...
"when you shoot in automatic, you give ALL control to the camera!")

But sometimes, I forgot to take the time to adjust the speed, and light...
and I got some yucky pictures...
But, it helped I had some pretty cute subjects!

(These are right out of the camera)

Any professionals out there with advice??? I am ALL ears!

overwhelmed

2011-01-15T13:45:00.000-08:00

So, we went to the aquarium today.
I was really excited to really use my camera.
But, I completely panicked and "forgot" everything from my class last week.

I totally cheated and mostly shot on automatic mode.

With this picture of Jack and the sting rays, I did the ultimate "boo-boo".
You really can't fix an over-exposed picture.

I am beginning to think I need and want to actually take a 16 week course.
Over 16 weeks and NOT 6 hours!

Mollys color blast tutorial

2011-01-14T18:32:00.000-08:00

It's so easy, a 3 year old can do it.

sunrise

2011-01-13T16:53:00.000-08:00

V is for Volcano...

2011-01-13T15:45:00.000-08:00

So, Jack got a volcano set for Christmas.
He was SO excited to do it!
And because Jack was, Molly was.

We made the mold on Tuesday.

Last night, after their bath (note the wet heads), we got ready
for the excitement. See how focused and serious they were?

The directions said to "Stand Back! For a super eruption, use 10 tablets"
So, we did.

But, it was less than impressive.
This was it.
Woo Hoo.

The kids didn't care, they still thought it was cool.
I love Molly's expression..."OOOOhhhhhhh"

Ken had picked up a couple for his freshman class.
I was relieved we had done this with our kids before he used them at school.
Somehow, I feel like 14 year olds would be less impressed.
We are going to try again, old school.
Baking soda and vinegar.
Hopefully, we will a better reaction.
From the chemicals, not the kids.

a lot to learn

2011-01-10T16:51:00.000-08:00

I took a photography class on Sunday with my brother-in-law.
It was A LOT of info.
A 16 week course, in a 6 hour day.

I learned a lot.

But...

have a lot more to learn.

In the meantime...I will practice.

And practice.

Hard to Believe...

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

...that 3 years ago, she was this tiny.

Molly had a wonderful birthday.

She is very proud to be 3.

I made her green alien cupcakes for her special day.

They had another wonderful party for her at daycare.

And we had a special dinner at the Blue Bayou at Disneyland.

This silly little girl has been a challenge and a joy the last 3 years.
She is smart and goofy, dramatic and sweet.
She loves to eat. She loves to sing. She loves to irritate her brother.
She's pretty much sleeping through the night.
She's starting to show some interest in using the potty.
She loves preschool.
She is in a serious Toy Story phase right now.
She makes us all laugh, everyday.
Happy Birthday, baby girl!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-12-29T21:45:00.000-08:00

We Wish You...

2010-12-25T22:58:00.001-08:00

a Merry Christmas!

(this just may be the BEST picture of my two kids...ever)

Customize your own photo slideshow

(another) Charlie Brown Christmas

2010-12-23T19:29:00.000-08:00

We were there in 2008.

We were there in 2009.

So, of course we went this year!!!

I love the tradition of the Snoopy House.

It's a Christmas "must do" for us.
Well, mostly me :)

This is where Santa hangs out.
But we are having an "anti-Santa" year with Molly.
So, we didn't wait for his arrival.

This little door leads to an "outhouse" bathroom.
Where my kids would've stayed the whole time.
You'd think Molly was potty trained by how long she wanted to be in there!

The Snoopy House=memories=love=Christmas!

Christmas Love

2010-12-22T18:26:00.000-08:00

I've blogged before about the loving care Molly gets 3 days a week at daycare.

Today was their Christmas party.

The kids sang 2 songs for us.

Molly was happy to sing!

Then, Molly wanted to sing a solo of "Row, Row, Row Your Boat"

So, she took center "stage".

Then, before presents, she insisted on sitting/laying in the middle of the circle.

Getting her bag to collect her goodies.

All her friends.

Waiting for a present.

So happy!

She hugged each one and said, "I love you, present".

We are so thankful for the care and love Molly receives EVERYday.

Not just on Christmas.

Nana and Papa's Tree

2010-12-20T17:22:00.000-08:00

We went to Nana and Papa's to help decorate their tree.

Molly decided to put up the beaded garland.
She sort of just threw it on the tree.

Jack got to put on the Santa hat (with help from Uncle Steve).

Molly, of course, wanted to do it, too.

We are definitely excited for the holiday!

Fingerprint Friday

2010-12-17T17:12:00.000-08:00

There is a song by Steven Curtis Chapman that says:
I can see the fingerprints of God
When I look at you
I can see the fingerprints of God
And I know its true
You're a masterpiece
That all creation quietly applauds
And you're covered with the fingerprints of God.
So look around you and see where YOU can see God's fingerprints.
Is it in nature? Kids? Animals?
Where do you see them?

My sweet animal loving (almost) 3 year old...
She loves all animals, even the not so cuddly ones.
Like the armadillo.
She doesn't judge them by their appearance.
She welcomes them with open arms. Or hands.
I love her animal loving spirit.

For more fingerprints, visit The Rusted Chain.