Piper & McKinley

A three month-old Piper cub

2012-02-23T08:51:00.000-08:00

For lots of reasons, I'm definitely more intentional with Piper. Not that I wasn't with McKinley, but after experiencing the reality of how rapidly time flies by, I didn't want to miss precious moments or wish her to grow up any faster than she already is. I can't believe she's three months old! For McKinley, this age was a turning point in her development, more specifically with her sleeping patterns. She began sleeping through the night and has ever since. Piper....not so much. Her night time sleep is more unpredictable. She has nights where she's asleep by 9:30 pm and doesn't make a peep until 6-6:30 am. There are other nights where she awakes an hour or so after putting her in her crib. Needless to say, I go to bed wondering what kind of night it will be. She has begun to grasp toys hanging from her play mat but still can't keep a pacifier in her mouth. She will take a better nap when swaddled and her favorite position is to stand. We haven't re-visited training her to self-soothe during nap time and instead bounce her to sleep on the exercise ball. She currently weighs a womping 13 lbs, 2 oz. She definitely needs to be held much more than McKinley required and prefers being upright so that she can suck on my shoulder. Positioning her so that she can watch McKinley sing and play almost always diffuses any fussiness, and she already turns her head to see the TV when Mickey Mouse clubhouse is on. She's the most fussiest after dinner, but after feedings she'll coo and smile and squeak. Her eyes remain a grayish blue, and her hair is dirty blonde, especially in the front, just like her momma's. She is truly a blessing

Pretty in Pink

2012-02-16T09:05:00.000-08:00

My mom has saved a bunch of my baby outfits, mainly dresses that were given by my grandmother. I loved putting McKinley in these dresses when she was a baby, but now it's even more meaningful when both of my girls wear them, especially when we go to church.

Snuggles!

Best buds!

My favorite.

Little Bo Peep has found her sheep.

Off to church.

(The pink sweater was a gift from Nana when McKinley was born.)

Smiley!

Dadda loves his girly girls!

Sisterly love

2012-02-11T12:25:00.000-08:00

I don't have a sister. With that being said, I wouldn't trade anybody in the world for my brother. He's the best!! But, I am so thankful that my girls have each other and that I get the experience of raising sisters and seeing that bond develop and grow. My prayer is that they are each other's best friend and biggest fan.
I love, love, love watching them interact. Piper is so enamored with McKinley. She watches her every move. And at times, McKinley is intentionally so loving towards Piper. Here is just one of the many interactions I have captured on camera.

Tummy time!

I seem to take a lot of pictures of McKinley with this expression....pure joy.

Piper loves grabbing and chewing her Joshlyn giraffe.

Super Bowl Party

2012-02-07T09:38:00.000-08:00

McKinley was still suffering from a runny nose and cough, so we relaxed at home. When we asked her who she was rooting for, she said, "Go Ducks!" (As in the Oregon ducks). We had chips and three different kinds of dip, McKinley's favorite.

Walking to the store to get some snackies.

Let's pre-game!

Dadda and his girls watching the pre-game show.

I'm not always serious....I smile too....kinda.

Piper enjoying the material girl at halftime.

Dadda and his shadow getting serious

about the second half.

Gotta fuel up for the fourth quarter.

So Sassy

2012-01-30T09:42:00.000-08:00

She found my mascara and tried to apply it to her eyelashes....so sassy!

Modeling her cowboy boots and sassy poncho.....so sassy!

Thank you Uncle Travis, Auntie Natalie,

Micah-moo & Lukey-loo for my sassy, leopard poncho!

Sisters snuggling in matching, fancy nancy dresses.....so sassy!

Thank you Nana & Boppy for our sassy, sunday dresses!

Pretending she's an indian princess.....so sassy!

Dadda models his new, hand-me-down suit....so sassy!

Thanks Dumpa for helping Dadda look so handsome!

2

2012-01-25T16:52:00.000-08:00

I have two girls who are both 2. McKinley recently turned 2 years old and Piper is already 2 months old. My goodness. On the morning of Munch #1's birthday, we walked into her room with party hats on and sang "Happy Birthday." Still half asleep, she was more scared than excited. After breakfast, where she got to eat a cupcake with chocolate frosting, she opened presents. Then we went to an indoor play gym called Safari Sams for a couple of hours. Safari Sams was crazy busy as we had forgotten kids were out of school for President's Day. For dinner, Dadda grilled some steaks, one of McKinley's favorites, and we sang to her one more time before she blew out her candles on her lemon-frosted cupcake.
Miss Piper had her two-month well check a week ago. She weighed 12 lbs & 1 oz, which placed her in the 76th percentile, and she measured 24 inches, which placed her in the 93rd percentile. Her pediatrician was amazed at her strength....the way she supports her weight while standing and her ability to lift her head and chest while on her tummy. I am loving the frequency of her smiles, gurgles and coos immediately after a feeding. Piper is totally infatuated with McKinley; she watches her constantly.

Good morning birthday girl!

Thank you Uncle Alan, Auntie Cassie, Lizzie & Abby

for my awesome Cookie Set.

Thank you Nana & Boppy for my groovy, new duds.

Dadda and P-cub watching McKinley open presents.

So fixated with her sister!

Thank you Gramma & Grampa for my monkey shirt and moose book!

Already engrossed in reading her new book.

This is what I got when I asked her to look at me and smile.

Another attempt at a sister shot with matching outfits.

At Safari Sams.

Piper and Momma after McKinley's birthday dinner.

Red Hot!

2012-01-19T14:52:00.000-08:00

Catalog or editorial?

Major cheese!

Thank you Uncle Eric & Aunt Debra for my beautiful heart dress!

Dadda bouncing his girls on the exercise ball.

Thank you Larry & Sheila for my reindeer jumper!

Miss Piper models one of Momma's old baby outfits.

Snowpocalypse part deux

2012-01-17T14:04:00.000-08:00

We woke up this morning to an inch of snow on the ground. Not a light dusting. A good, solid, hard-packed inch of wet snow.... perfect for making snowballs and snowmen. And that's just what we did after breakfast, while Piper cub took a nap in her bouncer. Then it started to snow again..... big, beautiful flakes. The weathermen predict snow showers until this evening, possibly into tomorrow morning. Regardless if it continues or melts, it was incredible to see the white blanket of snow covering our town and treetops. Note: The different lighting in each image is a result of me experimenting with my camera's ISO and shutter speed settings.

Thank you Nana & Boppy for my

awesome poofer vest!

One of four snowmen Dadda made.

My Firstborn is Two

2012-01-16T22:18:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Honey Badger!

Snowpocalypse 2012

2012-01-15T13:52:00.000-08:00

We got a light dusting of snow this morning. So, as soon as McKinley woke up, Benji bundled her up to go outside. While they were outside, big flakes started to come down. It was beautiful! Before we left for church, most of the snow had disappeared. But it was fun while it lasted.

Thank you Gramma & Grampa for my snow boots!

A little sweetness

2012-01-09T20:29:00.000-08:00

I'm loving our new dslr camera! I also love that you can take a color picture that doesn't look so great and turn it into an amazing image in black & white. On Piper: homemade felt flower clips created for a friend's brand new baby girl. The lovely, green blanket was knit by Ahmma.

First bottle-feeding attempt.

Groupon Getaway with Ahmma & Dumpa

2012-01-07T21:14:00.000-08:00

We were so lucky to have Benji's parents come to visit a day after my family left town. They arrived, and we loaded up the swagger wagon to head to our Hood River destination for a couple of days....courtesy of Dumpa's Groupon getaway he scored on the computer. We had a relaxing mini vaca, watching the bowl games, taking walks, and eating homeade baked beans. On the way home we stopped for lunch at Timberline Lodge and let the honey badger romp in the snow.

McKinley gets a push on the tricycle that Ahmma and

Dumpa gave her for Christmas.

Panorama Pt.

Mt. Hood seen from Panorama Pt.

Dadda and his girls in front of the Polar Express train.

Ahmma, McKinley & Dadda at Wahkeena Falls.

Columbia Gorge Hotel

Chasing ducks....a good way to release energy.

On the way home, we also stopped for some local apples & pears.

Need I say more?

Playing in the snow outside Timberline Lodge.

Piper gets her pic in front of Mt. Hood.

Oooh....a snow cave just McKinley's size!

Ahmma, Dumpa and the granddaughters.

FREE ADVICE

2012-01-05T20:41:00.000-08:00

THE DOCTOR IS IN

FOR SALE

2012-01-05T19:56:00.000-08:00

FOR SALE: MCKINLEY RUTH HOWARD

On account of high cost of living

AGE........................................23 mos.

PARENTAGE....................Legitimate

HEALTH...............................Excellent

DISPOSITION.....................Charming

For further information, date, and terms

of sale, contact her parents.

Christmas Recap

2011-12-30T20:30:00.000-08:00

It has been three years since we've spent Christmas with extended family, so having my parents and my brother & his family here was such a blessing. My parents graciously agreed to sleep on the air mattress so that we could be together. It was pure joy to see McKinley interact with her grandparents. Even sleep couldn't contain her excitement as she would eagerly awake from naps and beg Grampa or Gramma to read books or do Starfall on the computer. She was also introduced to the fine art of sharing and quickly developed a new-found desire for toys that her cousin Leyton would play with. Piper began smiling and cooing and enjoyed tons of snuggles with her aunt, uncle and grandparents. Saying we had a wonderful and relaxing time together is an understatement. Although we rarely left the house, except for grocery runs and church, I wouldn't trade a second of the time we spent in each other's company. So chill....so fun....and so rewarding.

Sliding down the bouncy house at our church's Indoor Park.

Taking a quick snack break to fuel up for more bouncing.

Silly Uncle Ryan!

Joyeux Noel everybody! (That's French for Merry Christmas.)

Watching an awesome, educational website called Starfall with Grampa.

Pajama story time with Grampa.

Piper cub gets a much-needed bath.

Dadda's little girl.

Thank you Aunt LuAnn for my velour Christmas outfit!

Peekaboo.

McKinley models Gramma's Uggs.

Best Christmas present ever!

Hey, who put the baby in the box?

Twinkies in red Christmas tutus.

Like mother, like daughter.

Thank you Gramma & Grampa for my cool all-terrain wagon.

Merry Christmas from the Howards.

Merry Christmas from the Howards and Campoamors.

The granddaughters model their Christmas dresses.

Gramma....what did you put on my head?

The cousins are triple twinkies in their sassy kitty pjs.

Piper models a new dress she received from some friends in KY.

Santa's helpers

2011-12-24T20:12:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas Eve....from McKinley, Piper & Cousin Leyton.

Big & Little Sis

2011-12-21T11:08:00.000-08:00

Here are some recent pictures of the girls before my family arrived for the holidays.

Yeehaw!

I finally got her to wear the cowboy boots

I bought her at a thrift store. So cute!

Both girls rocking two of Momma's baby outfits.

SNEAK PEEK: The P-cub is one month old

2011-12-13T16:04:00.000-08:00

Here's a little taste of her month old photo shoot. She is modeling one of my baby outfits, and the same outfit McKinley wore when she was a month old. She tipped the scales at 9 pounds and 10 ounces, which puts her exactly two pounds over her birth weight. I guess it's safe to say breast feeding is going well.

Big sister in charge

2011-12-13T15:50:00.000-08:00

The girls got some lovely duds from my Uncle Tom and Aunt Susan who live in Sonora, CA. McKinley couldn't wait to model her new sweatshirt.

Big sis in charge...Holla!

Parade...rest!

McKinley loves to give Piper kisses!

So precious!

5 Years, 2 kiddos & 1 Swagger Wagon

2011-12-09T20:51:00.000-08:00

Happy 5th Anniversary Babe!

Pictures from the past four weeks...

Momma skin-to-skin time.

Ole!

I don't just bring it...I bling it!

Days old and she can already hold her head up...amazing!

My angel.

Twinkies! Thanks Ahmma for the matching outfits.

More twinkies!

The big sis.

Bath elf.

Braving the cold....

To cut down the perfect Christmas tree.

Where my mutha fathas at?

We traded in our bumper sticker-clad Subaru for a sleek minivan.

The 'lil sis.

First smiles.

Some hospital pics

2011-12-02T12:38:00.000-08:00

So, although she's already grown a bunch, I wanted to share some pictures of our two-day stay in the hospital.

First family photo.

The big sis meets the little sis.

First complete family photo.

Dadda helps McKinley hold her baby sister.

So hollywood!

McKinley awaits our homecoming.

Hello blondie!

Welcome Piper Joshlyn Howard!

2011-11-16T10:38:00.000-08:00

Piper Joshlyn Howard was born on November 11, 2011 at 8:08 am. She weighed 7 lbs, 10 oz and measured 20.5 inches. More to follow.

Baby burrito.

Going home day!

Proud Papa!

You lookin' at me?

Do we really have to leave the hospital?

41 weeks

2011-11-10T20:46:00.000-08:00

Made it to 41 weeks. It's not like it's something to be proud of, but I am surprised to still be pregnant. We've been passing the time by getting out of the house as much as possible. Yesterday we picked mini kiwis from a local farm, and today after my prenatal appointment, we hiked 6 of the 11 switchbacks up to the top of Multnomah Falls. Early tomorrow morning, Ben and I will head to the hospital to be induced, and hopefully by dinnertime we'll have a baby in our arms.

KIWI FARM

She used the bucket to collect rocks, instead of kiwis.

Tasting her first mini kiwi.

Man vs. cow.

Beautiful fall colors!

MULTNOMAH FALLS

41 weeks.

We really had to turn around because Munch fell

asleep in the backpack...not because I couldn't

hoof it to the top.

Waiting.

2011-11-07T14:05:00.000-08:00

Munch #2's due date came and went. Very anti-climatic. And simply the exact opposite of McKinley's due date, where we planned ahead of time to dine at the Olive Garden for dinner. Even though it meant being over due, I was grateful to be able to attend the State Cross Country meet in Eugene. There are no more obligations I'm hoping to make, so now we are anxiously waiting her arrival.

At the State meet.

After church.

McKinley loves to give her baby sister kisses!

About McKinley's outfit: When my brother Ryan was

born, my grandparents brought me to the hospital wearing this.

Princess fairy.

Taking a walk at Champoeg Park.

Check out the size of those leaves!

Trick or Treating

2011-11-01T20:41:00.000-07:00

Posing with her jack-o-lantern before we hit the streets.

Go Chargers and Go Lynx!

Still head down

2011-10-30T21:08:00.000-07:00

At our last prenatal appointment our midwife did an ultrasound to confirm that Munch #2 was still head down. This visual confirmation was a huge relief since I had felt her hiccups in different locations leading up to our 39 week appointment. As we approach her Nov. 3 due date, we are hoping she arrives fashionably late, as my varsity girls cross country team is competing in their first state meet on Saturday, Nov. 5 in Eugene. We'll see..... On a separate note, my parents drove into town a couple days ago. McKinley is already learning new words and phrases from Grampa, such as "holla," "what's up," and "are you ready?"

Still head down!

A trip to the park with Gramma & Grampa.

Yummy blackberries!

Three generations.

Grampa can always make McKinley laugh.

French Prairie Gardens

2011-10-28T09:05:00.000-07:00

We visited a pumpkin patch a couple of days ago. It was a crisp afternoon, but McKinley had a blast looking at the farm animals and chasing Dadda through the hay maze. The pumpkin patch, itself, was a little lacking in pumpkins, but overall, we had a wonderful time.

Petting the goats.

Where are all the pumpkins in the pumpkin patch?

Going down the hay slide with Dadda.

Racing Dadda through the obstacle course.

Hey there Mr. Alpaca.

Success!

2011-10-20T20:26:00.000-07:00

Our external version to flip our baby girl was a success. The nurse took more time inserting an IV port into my hand than the procedure itself. And after 20 minutes of fetal monitoring and an ultrasound confirming she was still head down, we were free to leave the birthing center.
At my 38 week prenatal appointment today our midwife was confident by feeling my belly that she remained in the favored head down presentation. Now, the likelihood of her flipping back is possible, but not probable.
On a separate note, I bought some itty bitty rubber bands in attempt to style McKinley's mullet into pigtails. Another success, however, once her hair dries, the rubber bands easily slide out. It looked super cute while it lasted.

At the park.

I found some Keen hikers for McKinley at Goodwill....score!

Twinkies in our Sunday dresses.

Post external version.

Piggies!

Playing catch-up

2011-10-11T14:18:00.000-07:00

I recently downloaded a bunch of pictures from our new DSLR camera and realized that I have neglected to write about some important happenings from the past month. For starters, Benji and I both celebrated birthdays in September. For his day, he insisted on grilling himself steak for dinner. McKinley and I provided dessert, a favorite of his...Daiquiri Ice from Baskin Robbins. For my day, I requested a frappecino and blueberry muffin from Starbucks for breakfast and then Burgerville for dinner.

Besides birthdays, we have been juggling schedules as Benji began a new shift at work and the cross country running season began where I am an assistant coach at Newberg High School. Benji has participated in a few open races during our meets, so it's been fun for McKinley and I to cheer him on.

TRASK MOUNTAIN ASSAULT

Benji and Bruce (head coach)

HOME MEET @ N.H.S.

CHAMPOEG INVITATIONAL

At the start line.

Doing some last minute strides with Dadda.

Cheering on Dadda at the finish line.

I haven't been nearly as diligent in taking weekly belly photos as when I was pregnant with McKinley. But here are a few from the past couple weeks. We met with an OB/GYN that specializes in vaginal breech deliveries yesterday because our baby girl still remains head-up....even after all my attempts to flip her. Before we can determine if I'm a good candidate for a breech delivery, we must exhaust all of our options to turn her. So, we're scheduling an appointment to have a doctor physically rotate her at the end of this week.

35 Weeks:

36 weeks:

My belly button has popped out!

Lastly, as I mentioned above, we recently bought a nicer camera than the point-and-shoot we have used since we got married. I am still learning about all of its features and how to capture better images, but I am having a blast using McKinley as my test subject. Hopefully I'll have a better understanding of my new toy before Munch #2 gets here.

Breech Baby

2011-09-27T10:19:00.000-07:00

As of my last appointment at 34 weeks, our baby girl is currently presenting head up. I'm trying forward-leaning inversions, breech tilts on the ironing board, and even a form of acupuncture called moxibustion to flip her. McKinley is even doing her part to help flip her sister. If she is still breech at my next appointment in a couple of weeks, we will discuss our options more seriously.

Ultrasound confirming her head is at the top of my uterus.

Munch and her sister at 33 weeks.

Breech tilts on the couch.

Date night

2011-09-20T08:01:00.000-07:00

Benji and I went to a friend's wedding this past weekend. It was only the second time we've left McKinley to be put to bed without us. The wedding was held at the beautiful Lakeside Gardens in Portland.

Last month's funny faces

2011-09-07T13:38:00.000-07:00

So, I've been a bad, little blogger. Tomorrow will be exactly one month since my last McKinley update. I'll save my "what we've been up to the past month" post for another day. But for now, here are some of the few pics I took of McKinley during the month of August.

Getting caught in the coffee table's decorative wire bowl.

Tupperware head.

Trying to give Momma a kiss through the playground equipment.

Our little monkey.

Hangin' tough.

Sailor girl in the church nursery.

Rambo girl, courtesy of Dadda.

Alaskan Visitors

2011-08-08T19:41:00.000-07:00

Last week my Grandma B., Aunt Kathy, and cousin Kylee were in town for vacation. McKinley met her Great Grandma B. and Kylee for the first time. Kylee absolutely loved being with McKinley. We had fun at their hotel pool, eating dinners together, and hanging out around the house.

Kylee and McKinley with her belated birthday gift:

Lenny the Lamb.

Swimming at the Shiloh Inn pool.

Getting dry with Grandma B.

The whole gang at PF Changs for dinner.

Showing our guests how to pick only the ripe blueberries.

Sharing blueberries with Momma.

Kylee and McKinley were inseparable.

"Bye-bye airplane."

Family shot with Kylee and Grandma B.

Another one with Kathy and Grandma B.

18 Months

2011-08-05T11:28:00.000-07:00

McKinley and I both had our routine check-ups this past week. She saw Dr. Rollin for her 18-month well-check and received one vaccination. She tipped the scales at 23.5 lbs and remains in the 35th percentile for weight. For her height, she measured 33.3 inches and jumped to the 88th percentile. Overall, her pediatrician was pleased with her development and won't need to see her again until she turns two.

On a separate note: This post is two weeks in the making, so although I have more to report on McKinley, I figured I better publish it before another week goes by.

Picking blueberries in the back yard.

Modeling a homemade dress and hat

Momma received at her baby shower.

Posing in front of our beautiful hydrangeas.

Her goose egg that appeared after face-planting

on the concrete patio.

Fun at the park.

26 week comparison with McKinley (on the left) and Munch #2.

Girls Cross Country Camping Trip

2011-07-21T13:34:00.000-07:00

Benji worked one full week before we were out of town once again. This time we were chaperoning the girls cross country team on a camping/hiking trip to Mt. St. Helens. We did the same trip two summers ago when I was pregnant with McKinley, but this time proved to be a bit more challenging. Chasing after a curious 18-month-old sucked all of the relaxation out of camping! The hike itself was also more difficult. Our cool summer temperatures prevented a lot of the snow from melting, and with no crampons, we decided to turn around about three quarters of the way up. Being 25 weeks pregnant with Munch #2 slowed me down to where I was constantly bring up the rear, but I was determined to keep up and in the end was proud of what I accomplished.

The mischievous expression says it all!

Our six-person tent we rented from REI....so spacious!

At the Climber's Bivouac about to start our hike.

Nice summer weather....huh?

McKinley and Dadda turn around at tree line.

Momma and the girls.

Climbing one of the many rock ridges.

We turned around at this pole.

Resting before climbing down.

Back at camp we take a walk around Yale Reservoir.

She discovered a camping staple.....chips!

California Summer Vacation

2011-07-17T20:58:00.000-07:00

Now that we're back home, I am truly appreciating the cooler summer temperatures and loving the rain. I've come to the realization that I'd rather be wet from the rain than from sweat. It was hot in CA! And for the short time we stayed with Cassie and Alan in Victorville (high desert), it was hot and humid....bad combination. Overall, we enjoyed our time with family and ate alot of In and Out cheeseburgers...a record five times to be exact.

We stayed the night with Alan & Cassie after leaving Bishop.

McKinley couldn't wait to go to the park behind their new house.

Scoping out the swimming competition at a private

lake in Victorville.

Time to get wet!

She sat and splashed for about five minutes

and thought it was the funniest thing ever.

Cousin Lizzie joins her for some splashing action.

Back in San Diego, we sunned and swam at

Nana & Boppy's black-bottom pool.

Uncle Eddie, Auntie Shawna, McKinley and Dadda

pose for a pool shot.

We love family time at the pool!

Chillin' with cousin Mikey, when we went to visit

Uncle Eric and Aunt Debra in La Jolla.

Testing out the water temperature at Cornado Beach.

Dadda made her a wall to protect her from the incoming tide.

McKinley with her cousin Leyton, behind the "wall."

Beach day with Auntie Shannon, Uncle Ryan & Leyton..so much fun!

Another pool party at Nana & Boppy's.

Pretty hydrangeas!

Cousin shot with Abby, Lizzie, Luke and Micah-moo.

We couldn't wait to show McKinley the San Diego Zoo!

Although, she enjoyed the petting zoo the most.

I look like a Galapagos...very fitting.

Ahmma, Shawna and Eddie joined us at the zoo.

Getting soaked at Santee Lakes water fountains.

She was fearless!

Without her sun hat she resembles a wet rat.

Hangin' with cousin Leyton one last time.

At least Leyton was enjoying it!

Posing with Shannon, Ryan and Leyton

before saying goodbye.

Bishop Camping Trip

2011-07-09T13:45:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful time with Benji's family in Bishop, renting cabins up in the mountains for a couple of nights. The family fished, hiked, and had relaxing meals around the campfire.

McKinley with Nathan and Pablo.

We crashed at Nathan and Selene's place in Colfax on

our way down to Bishop. Benji has know Nathan since Little League.

Benji's little sister, Shawna, and I at 22 weeks.

Relaxing at the Bishop city park.

In front of the world famous Schat's Bakery.

Storytime with all the cousins in our cozy cabin.

Lizzie, Abby and McKinners in matching fleece.

Beautiful mountain scenery.

Our first Bishop hike to Tyee Lake.

Tyee Lake

Eating dinner around the campfire.

McKinley's first smores.

Getting our feet wet in Bishop creek.

Celebrating Uncle Travis' birthday.

Fun with the Grandparents

2011-07-03T19:39:00.000-07:00

So, my parents, on the road to begin a newly retired life in Kentucky, stopped to see us for a couple of days. They also brought my things I had left in my home in Alaska, among other unexpected treasures. Although we didn't do much but hang out around the house, McKinley enjoyed every second of her time with Grampa and Gramma C.

Playing her great auntie's piano.

Thank you Gramma & Grampa for my new bedtime book....

.....and for my snazzy baseball cap and fishing pole.

Can't wait to try this baby out in Bishop.

Modeling her new swimsuit, another

gift from Gramma & Grampa.

Picking strawberries in the backyard.

Smooching on Grampa.

Modeling her new life vest for her camping

trip to Bishop, CA.

Another awesome hand-me-down: Momma's

old rocking chair.

Pictures after church.

This girl loves bubbles!

Father's Day: A smokin' good time!

2011-06-20T20:26:00.000-07:00

Dadda had to work on Father's Day, but he had requested a special meal for when he got home from work. He wanted steak and sweet potatoes. I researched how to pan sear, then bake a t-bone. It seemed like a pretty simple task. However, when I poured oil in the skillet that was pre-heating on the stove top, the oil burst into flames about 3 feet high. I started to panic and picked up the skillet, wondering what to do with it. The heat from the fire was so intense that I dropped the skillet on the floor. All I could think about was that I better do something fast before the cabinets caught on fire. So I picked up the skillet and shoved it in the sink, hoping the water would put out the flames. Luckily, McKinley was in the living room watching her Praise Baby dvd during the few minutes or so I almost burnt down the house. She started crying after hearing me scream, and we both watched smoke infiltrate the dining room, then living room. Then the smoke detectors went off, and McKinley didn't know what to think. After throwing the burnt skillet and kitchen rug outside on the patio, I pressed forward to finish Dadda's special meal. Despite the hiccups in preparing dinner, he liked my t-bone steaks, and I learned a very valuable lesson: Don't pour oil in a pan that's already hot!

Dadda wasn't the only one who liked the t-bones!

When the steak was all gone, McKinley was completely satisfied

picking at the bone. Definitely her father's daughter!

Yum!

Dadda modeling his Father's Day present:

Five Finger shoes.

McKinley holding Dadda's second Father's Day present:

A book titled "What Daddies Do Best."

Happy Father's Day Dadda!

Munch #2 is a girl!

2011-06-17T19:55:00.000-07:00

We had our anatomy ultrasound a couple of days ago and found out the Munch #2 is a girl! Our midwife said everything looked good. Munch #2 weighs about 11 oz and her head is slightly smaller than a tennis ball. We are super excited that McKinley gets a sister so close in age. Our prayer is that they become each other's best friend for life.

Re-fried beans and avocado...yummy!

Munch #1

Munch #2, who has her knee up to her face.

Half way.....yippeeee!

Wakeena Falls

2011-06-11T20:05:00.000-07:00

We finally did the Wakeena Falls loop this past thursday, which is a five mile route that ends at Multnomah Falls. McKinley surprised us by not falling asleep in her carrier during the two hours we hiked. I don't know if it was the extra weight or the fact we ate lunch prior to starting our hike, but I felt so sluggish, almost like my legs were made of lead.

Lunch at Rooster Rock State Park.

Family shot in front of the Columbia River.

Upper Wakeena Falls

Can't wait to discover the sex of our baby next week!

Pretty in Pink

2011-06-10T09:09:00.000-07:00

Our second rhododendron bush is in full bloom in our front yard. On a separate note: her rash is totally gone, and her appetite is back to normal.

Viral Update

2011-06-06T13:49:00.000-07:00

So, Miss McKinley's fever finally broke Sunday morning, giving her eleven hours of uninterrupted sleep and no need to take Tylonel during the night. I was concerned that she still might be contagious, so we stuck around the house. Her appetite was showing no signs of returning, but she thankfully continues to drink a lot of water and milk. After her bath last night, I noticed small, red bumps all over her back and belly. With what we've been reading about sudden spikes in temperature and no other prior symptoms, we suspected a mild case of Roseola. Her pediatrician agreed and assured us that her rash isn't harmful and will most likely fade after 24 hours.

More rhododendrons in bloom!

On the road to recovery

2011-06-04T21:47:00.000-07:00

Miss McKinley gave us quite the scare yesterday morning. Without getting into too much graphic detail, the paramedics responded to our house around 1 am and found McKinley's temperature to be 104. We are fairly certain that prior to the ambulance arriving, she probably experienced a febrile seizure due to her fever. We rushed her to the emergency room, and the doctors ran tests on her urine and looked for a possible ear infection. Everything came back negative, so she was diagnosed as having a viral infection of some sort. We saw her pediatrician later that morning, and he confirmed the ER's diagnosis. With Tylenol keeping the fever at bay, she was primarily her happy self, although her appetite was non-existent. Her pediatrician cautioned us that her fever would most likely return in the evening, so I decided to sleep (using the term very loosely) in her room last night.
Today we saw progress in her demeanor and with her balance, but not so much with her appetite. Since it was so nice outside (finally!) we spent a lot of time at the park. We are praying that tonight she shakes the fever for good. If not, we'll have to begin antibiotics, as per the doctor's instructions.

So tired, after being in the ER for 4 hours.

Finally felt our baby move....so amazing!

All smiles at the park.

Dadda and his mini-me.

Should I join Dadda in doing some pullups?

Giving Dadda a kiss during his set of push-ups.

Punky Brewster

2011-05-23T16:21:00.000-07:00

Ironically....she didn't dress herself, and I can't use 'no clean clothes' as an explanation. I think my mother would agree, that if I could dress myself at that age, I would most certainly look like McKinley. I happen to think she matches perfectly!

Ramona Falls

2011-05-19T20:25:00.000-07:00

Today we spent the hottest day of the year hiking the seven-mile Ramona Falls Loop. This beautiful trail follows the Sandy River with outstanding views of the east side of Mt. Hood, then meanders into the forest to reveal an amazing waterfall shooting down a steep rock face. We had a couple hiccups during our hike: McKinley fell asleep in her carrier, forcing us to take her out because of the lack of head support, and we didn't anticipate as much snow as we encountered, which made us lose the trail two or three times. Overall, a fun day!

Crossing the Sandy River.

Ramona Falls!

Taking a snack break.

Mt. Hood!

Our little hiker girl.

Flowers

2011-05-14T19:19:00.000-07:00

McKinley now favors walking to crawling. She is getting so big! And quite independent too. Today while I was making dinner, I heard the musical toys in her room, and sure enough, she was happily playing by herself in her bedroom. She has always been good at entertaining herself, but I felt a little sad knowing she doesn't need me as much anymore.
The rhododendrons and azaleas are in full bloom in our front yard. I thought I better snap some pictures before their blossoms die.

So big!

McKinley & Momma

2011-05-08T19:44:00.000-07:00

For Mother's Day, McKinley wore a beautiful brown dress from her Grampa & Gramma C. Add hot pink tights and shrug, spiffy, brown mary janes, and a new, matching flower for her hair, and some ladies at church began referring to her as a "fashion plate." I tried to color coordinate our outfits as I sense another tradition being spawn for Mother's Day. I wish the gorgeous dogwood tree in the pictures was in our yard, but lass, it belongs to our neighbors.

Troutlake

2011-05-06T20:29:00.000-07:00

Last year we celebrated Mother's Day with an overnight trip to the coast. This year we continued the tradition and stayed at a rustic inn in Troutlake, WA. Before arriving in Troutlake, we spent the morning hiking to McCall Pt. and the afternoon eating lunch in Hood River. We were blessed with amazingly warm temperatures and clear blue sky, and from the top of McCall Pt. we had breathtaking views of Mt. Hood and Mt. Adams.

McCall Pt.

Das hikers

Mt. Adams, WA.

Columbia River Gorge.

Mt. Hood, OR.

Posing in the balsamroot.

Troutlake is a small, rural town in Washington, about 30 miles north of the Columbia River. It is literally nestled at the bast of Mt. Adams. We first visited Troutlake during our honeymoon five years ago when we stayed at a bed and breakfast in Hood River. I think we were curious about this small town covered in snow and vowed to come back some day. Upon arriving we walked around before checking into our motel and snapped pictures in front of some of the town's historic landmarks. The motel was equally quaint with its rustic decor and friendly owners. I truly appreciated their attention to detail in making our room kid-friendly. The best part of the inn was the breakfast they served the next morning....sweet potato waffles with local huckleberries.

Mt. Adams behind Troutlake.

Chillaxin' at our motel park.

Drinking huckleberry soda bought at the General Store (only store.)

The community town hall.

The 100 year-old Presbyterian Church.

Goofing around at the town's park.

The historic Country Inn.

Family shot after our dinner at Taste of the Gorge.

More Easter pics

2011-05-02T19:57:00.000-07:00

Thank you Ahmma and Dumpa for my beautiful easter dress and purse!

Water tower workout

2011-04-29T19:25:00.000-07:00

Today we exercised as a family after McKinley's nap. Benji and I took turns pushing the stroller up the hill to the water tower overlooking Newberg. Thirty minutes later, my legs and buns were burning.

Our Sunday Easter best

2011-04-27T15:37:00.000-07:00

Don't we clean up nicely?

Tulips & Picnics

2011-04-23T21:40:00.000-07:00

We spent Friday afternoon at the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival in Woodburn, OR. Despite record-low spring temperatures, the tulip fields did not disappoint! It was such a clear and sunny day that I didn't take nearly as many pictures as I intended, trying to battle through unattractive shadows and squinty eyes. Needless to say, we might come back when it's a little more overcast and not so bright!

Today we had another amazingly sunny day, probably the warmest temperatures yet this spring. So, McKinley and I had a picnic lunch on our patio. In our summer attire, we are finally beginning to soak up some color to drown the awful pastiness of winter.

Spontaneous road trip

2011-04-21T14:22:00.000-07:00

I love being surprised! After breakfast two day ago, Benji said, out-of-the-blue, "Get in the car; we're going to Mt. Hood." We got ready and loaded the car in less than thirty minutes, and off we went. Road trips are awesome, but spontaneous road trips are even better! We saw so much snow when we arrived at Timberline Lodge, over 200 inches. Mt. Hood was completely covered in white, fresh powder, and it took us a second to remind ourselves that we were in the middle of spring. We decided to have a snack on the third floor of the lodge and were blown away that the snow level reached the third floor windows. Afterwards, we walked around outside, took some pictures and packed up. Such a fun day!

The entrance to Timberline Lodge.

Eating our snack on the third floor of the lodge.

Crazy baby!

She did not like sitting in the snow!

Check out the height of this snow berm!

First Steps

2011-04-17T19:52:00.000-07:00

So, Miss McKinley finally decided to try walking on her own. She was so nonchalant about it, almost oblivious to what she was actually doing. She didn't make a fuss... I let go of her, hoping to give her more opportunities to stand by herself....then she casually started walking towards me. I started freaking out, and I honestly think she had no idea why Benji and I had gotten so excited. We even captured her on video minutes later, taking about 5 more steps. After the excitement died down a bit, I got a little teary-eyed. I don't know why. We've been waiting so long for this moment, and I suppose the next sixteen years of her life quickly flashed before my eyes, as if she was growing up way too fast already. Since her first steps a couple of days ago, she only tries walking on her own when we purposefully let her go, scoot back and encourage her to "come to Momma or Dadda."
On a totally separate note: the following pictures were taken during the few nice days we've had in April thus far. As soon as I see the sun faintly hinting that it might poke through the clouds, we run outdoors to soak it up.

Workin' her backside.

Swingin' at the park.

Our Silly Girl (Hooray for 100 posts!)

2011-04-10T21:33:00.000-07:00

I think it's the weather....the reason why I haven't taken as many pictures of Miss McKinley lately. We finally got another decent day. And by decent, I mean above 50 degrees. Actually, it was a spectacular, sunny day. After reading outdoors and not thinking I needed sunblock, I ended up looking like Sebastian from the Little Mermaid. McKinley still continues to surprise us. Recently she let go of whatever she was holding onto, in order to sign all done. She stood by herself for about 5 seconds before falling. This is the closest she's come to walking. But we're in no rush! She has developed a strange fondness for fuzz. Fuzz off of blankets, jackets, rugs, toys with hair made of yarn. She picks the fuzz and eats it. We use to think that this was just a phase, that it would pass, that all babies put everything into their mouths, no big deal, right? Well, she doesn't put everything in her mouth....just fuzz. And she swallows it too. It may explain the recent increase in her coughing?

Posing while playing with her toys in her kitchen drawer.

I did not teach her this.

This either! She started doing this yoga pose, so I started calling

it "downward dog." I guess it stuck. Now, I ask her to do

downward dog, and she immediately gets on all fours.

Enjoying our spectacular, sunny day....

.....while Dadda does yard work.

She loves her shades!

Finally a due date!

2011-03-30T13:55:00.000-07:00

We had our dating ultrasound this morning to confirm a due date for #2. It appears that my instincts were right on, and even though our images will be sent to medical higher-ups for results, our technician said Nov. 3 is when we can expect #2 to arrive. Nov. 3rd happens to be Auntie Cassie's birthday, and Nov. 5th is Uncle Ryan's birthday, so we might get another double birthday come fall. We saw (and heard) the heartbeat and the pulsing umbilical cord...amazing! We also saw our baby kick one of his/her forming legs. Double amazing!

8 Weeks

2011-03-27T16:29:00.000-07:00

Still experiencing waves of nausea. It's pretty darn devastating when the only thing to cure the queasiness is eating and there's nothing appealing to eat. On Friday we had another beautiful afternoon. Benji mowed the lawn, while McKinley crawled around the backyard.

I'm trying to suck it in, but it's not working!

With her rugby shirt and jeans, she looks like

she stepped out of a J Crew magazine.

She found Momma's belly.

Is her backside cute, or what?

Park date

2011-03-22T21:25:00.000-07:00

Although I have been fighting nausea for the past week, the weather was too beautiful to stay indoors. After McKinley's nap we took a long walk around the neighborhood and ended it at the park behind our house. There was a dad with his daughter, playing catch with his dog, which provided endless entertainment for McKinley. She also took a spin in the swing and giggled every time I grabbed her toes.

Little Gray Riding Hood

2011-03-18T20:17:00.000-07:00

It was down right drizzling today, but we decided to venture out of the house anyways. Benji had planned a five mile loop beginning at Wahkena Falls and ending at Multnomah Falls, however with the unpleasant weather, lunchtime approaching, and McKinley being lulled to sleep while in the backpack, we hiked to the top of Multnomah Falls and turned around. The waterproof blanket from Auntie Shannon sure came in handy and for the most part, kept McKinley's core dry. She looked like Little Red Riding Hood!
After lunch at Baha Fresh and a quick stop at Al's for some herbs, we made it home. McKinley, thankfully, took a late nap, which began fifteen minutes from our house and successfully ended in her crib. I love it when a car seat-to-crib transfer goes without a hitch! Upon waking, she was rearing to go and helped Dadda in the garden.

Little Miss Gray Riding Hood!

7 weeks at Upper Multnomah Falls.

The Columbia River gorge was covered in fog.

Helping Dadda plant some herbs.

I love her expression...or lack thereof.

Six weeks at IKEA

2011-03-11T19:45:00.000-08:00

After subbing on and off for the past three weeks, it was time to celebrate a free day. We decided to take a road trip to Ikea and Home Goods in Portland. Browsing the showroom, we worked up an appetite and took a lunch break in their cafeteria. McKinley loved the macaroni and cheese and spinach and cheese crepes. Benji and I split their Sweedish meatballs.

Only 6 weeks, and I already have a noticeable baby pooch.

What's up with that?

Cheese!

I'm gonna be a BIG SISTER!

2011-03-07T15:15:00.000-08:00

Our prayers were answered (more quickly than we anticipated), and McKinley will be a big sister this fall. Our first prenatal appointment in scheduled for March 16, so we will confirm a due date then. We are super excited to expand our family!

Momma heading out to another half-day substitute job.

Hat Model

2011-03-02T20:40:00.000-08:00

If anyone can knit cute hats like these, I will reimburse you, if you make one for my daughter.

Tea Party

2011-02-26T20:35:00.001-08:00

To celebrate our good friend Christine's upcoming birth, we threw a baby shower tea party for the women of Dundee Covenant Church. We had a lovely time sipping and socializing. At first McKinley was a bit overwhelmed with the bevy of ladies, but during tea time, she quickly warmed up and was a non-stop chatterbox!

Who-hoo for snow days!

2011-02-24T12:33:00.000-08:00

I accepted a half-day substitute job for Wednesday through Friday this week. It's my first substitute gig for the school year and since McKinley was born. I was excited to get back in the classroom, especially since I would be teaching Algebra I. Getting ready for my day was equally exciting. Putting on my dressy clothes, that I seldom wear now, and applying a little make-up made me feel pretty. However, all my excitement was quickly squelched when I met the thirty out-of-control kids (mainly freshman) that I would be attempting to teach. I tried all my best tricks, getting some of them to buy in, but I mainly kept one eye on the clock, anxiously waiting for the end of the period. So, it was a rough ninety minutes, and needless to say, I was a little rusty. At the homefront it was daddy-daughter day. They enjoyed some quality time together while I was making the big bucks.

This morning we woke to several inches of snow on the ground. And I just knew I wouldn't have to see my class of crazy kiddos today. Sure enough, school had been cancelled, and I breathed a sigh of relief that I would have one more day to prepare for our next encounter. So, instead of making substitute pay for half a day, we made some beautiful memories in the snow.

Let's give 'em something to blog about...

2011-02-19T20:46:00.000-08:00

So, it's been a fairly slow week. Nothing huge to report. The biggest news may be that I've stopped nursing my baby. Last night we implemented a new bedtime routine and cut the feeding immediately before bed. It was a gradual process that began with cutting her four feedings one week at a time. The past month was an easy transition....something I'm very thankful for. We also had to begin using overnight diapers because her Huggies, even one size up, wouldn't hold. I was changing her sheets three times a week, and man, is it difficult putting the fitted sheet on the mattress with the bumper in the way! She is getting better at walking behind her princess coach. At first it was nothing but straight legs, but now she bends them slightly. She pulls up on everything, including our piano (see below). I'm sure it's just a matter of time before she is brave enough to let go. I already have the video camera charged and ready...

Future Mozart, perhaps?

Such a warm winter day. Perfect for a ride in

my princess coach.

Jessiquita Mamacita

2011-02-15T21:21:00.000-08:00

My best friend from the academy, Jessica Parker, paid us a quick visit on her way to San Diego. It was so good to see her, even if it was only for an hour. McKinley warmed up to her instantly. Right before Jess left, McKinley crawled over to her with a book in hand, like she does with me when she wants me to read to her. It was the sweetest thing, especially since we've witnessed McKinley's past shyness around people she doesn't know.

My Funny Valentine

2011-02-14T19:53:00.000-08:00

We celebrated Valentine's Day last Friday when we grabbed lunch at California Pizza Kitchen. Man, do they have good food! We shared a spinach, artichoke & chicken pizza and a Moroccan-inspired salad. We even ordered dessert...a scrumptious piece of red velvet cake for McKinley and I to share. That evening, Benji and I watched a movie after the munch went to bed....500 Days of Summer...my choice.

Beach Day

2011-02-12T20:45:00.000-08:00

Wrapping up my California posts, I have a few more pictures to share (probably some of my favorites!). The day before we flew back to Oregon, we had planned on hitting the beach. When we met Benji's Uncle Eric and Aunt Debra in La Jolla, we were surprised how warm it really was. I had brought McKinley's swim suit, but didn't think she would actually get to wear it. Well, we ended up having the most amazing day...it felt like summer! We were surrounded by family (except for Shawna and Eddie who were on their honeymoon, and Alan who was working), and all the cousins were together. I loved watching McKinley play in the sand for the first time and loved watching Benji carefully let her play in the ocean.

Finally...all four cousins!

Lizzie-beth ~ Micah-moo ~ McKinley-roo ~ Abbykins

Where's my shovel?

The whole gang.

Potpourri

2011-02-11T16:12:00.000-08:00

Driving Dumpa's brand new Mercedes.

On our way to a nice steak dinner with Nana and Boppy.

Soakin' up the sun with Dadda.

Welcome to In-N-Out...may I take your order please?

Hmm...I'll have a double-double with cheese, animal-style,

small fry and a medium vanilla milkshake.

Waiting for Dadda to try on his tux.

Opening her birthday card from Gramma & Grampa C.

More cake, this time left-over chocolate wedding cake,

on her actual birthday. I think she is signing "more please."