Jack's Christmas Program

Jack participated in his very first Christmas program today. He and all of his classmates were so adorable! I was a little nervous that he would get scared because he was NOT talking about this event at all. Every time I brought the subject up, he denied any knowledge of it. I had no reason to fear, though, he did great as the videos will prove. I only wish that Rich hadn't been out of town for work this week. Grandpa Eastland made a good substitute, though.

I apologize for shaking the camera so much during this last video--they were so darn cute I couldn't stop laughing!

Happy Birthday from Grandma Rosie

Grandma Rosie gave Paige some dress up clothes, and they have been a huge hit. Paige really likes the high heels, but doesn't know how to walk in them. She insists on wearing them, but cries because she is immobile. And so it starts...

Snow Day

After three days of being stuck inside because of snowy weather, we broke out the Play-Doh. Now that Paige is such a big girl, she is allowed to play with it, too. It brought us about an hour of peace and happiness! She loved it, and did not try to eat it which is what Jack did the first few times we offered it to him to play with. It sure helps having a big experienced brother to show her the way!

I've been instructed to take these pictures of the dolphin and tree because Jack wanted to save them for his Grandma Rosie.

Party!

Looking fabulous as usual as she is about to attack that cupcake!

She had her friend party over the weekend. She and Jack had so much fun. Now if they would just stop fighting over the new toys!

Happy Birthday Paige!!!!

Paigie is 2! I can't believe it has passed so quickly. Her first year was filled with mostly ups but a few downs, with her being in the hospital with RSV and then requiring Oxygen for the next three months. Inspite of that challenge, she was so happy and mellow. This year she has really come into her own. Although she is still generally a happy girl, she is much more opinionated and even quite "high maintenance". We continue to enjoy her and laugh daily at what a clown she has become. I can't wait to see what this next year will bring us!

A little help from Jack

She LOVES her "babies"!

These pictures were taken on her actual birthday with just us. There was no hesitation on what to do with her wrapped gifts: she tore into them with the greatest enthusiasm.

Oireachtas in Denver

My cousin Madeleine is an Irish dancer and came to Denver in November for our 2009 Oireachtas (regional Irish dance competition) with my Aunt Helene. It was so great to see them, and because they live in Arizona we don't get to see them very often. In fact this was their first time meeting Jack and Paige! I didn't get to see her compete, but I did get to see her practice, and she was amazing! She is extremely talented.

Steve, Aunt Helen, my mom, Maddy, Jack, Me, Deni, and Paige all at the Hard Rock Cafe. And yes, Maddy got lots of comments about her beautiful hair, which is the standard "do" for all Irish Dancers.

Proud Mama!!

We had such a nice visit, and Cousin Maddy made such an impression on Jack--he is still talking about her. He also adored my Aunt Helene and insisted on holding her hand everywhere we went (and wanted to be carried by her which is no small feat!). I think she was just as taken with him, so I feel very confident of sending him to her when I've just had enough!

Happy Thanksgiving!!

In keeping with the original Thanksgiving feast of roast Labrador, Jack and Paige are getting ready to sacrifice our beloved Charlie...

Just one of those naughty days!!

Although Paige had taken a shower earlier in the day, she decided she was going to take a bath with Jack anyway...clothes and all. Despite how naughty this was, I could not stop laughing, and I am now concerned that this will turn into the newest habit.

Happy Birthday Grandpa!

Sunday was Rich's Dad's birthday, so we helped him celebrate. Little Miss Sassy Pigtails was much less sassy then she looks from this photo. Oh well. Love you, and Happy Birthday Dad!

Happy 4th Birthday, Jack!!!

I can't believe my little mister is 4 already! I don't know where the time has gone: I feel like it was just a little bit ago that Rich and I brought him home from the hospital. I love the little boy he has become, and everyday he teaches me new lessons about life and love (and patience...). I'm so grateful to be his Mama, and I can't wait for all the adventures this next year will bring.

Auntie and Mama

Grandma Rausch

Whoa! Look at that loot!!!

"Mom, do I have to blow out the candle on this ghetto half eaten cake?"

Trick or Treat!

After a little recovery from Jack's earlier birthday party, we went trick-or-treating with the neighbors. The kids did burn a little energy before hand. By the time we were done, which ended up at the kids' grandparents' house, Jack made it very clear that he was done with pictures.

Flying lessons on Halloween

This is sooo Madi with her bottom in the air!

She's really trying to keep up!

Wait for me, guys!

First stop... our house

Taking a break

(She's crying because her mean mommy won't let her eat a big bag of Skittles)