THE SCOTT FAMILY

An Overheard Conversation

2010-09-08T18:16:00.002-05:00

I have no idea what was said on John's side, but here is Kyla's portion of today's telephone conversation:

Kyla: Huwo (hello) Daddy!

Kyla: We took Dylan to the doctor

Kyla: No, John

Kyla: Are you kidding me, John

There was more after this portion, but I was too busy laughing to notice!

Summertime Drive

2010-07-06T19:13:00.004-05:00

From 3 years old to 16 in 60 seconds

Sophie's not too sure about this

...with good reason! Nightmares of teenage driving have begun already

DJ gets a turn and looking mighty studly until you realize he's in a pink car with a pink ball. Poor kid.

Introducing the Talented Sibling Duo

2010-07-05T19:08:00.002-05:00

Happy 4th of July

2010-07-05T15:32:00.003-05:00

It was a quiet 4th around the Scott house with a really wet week of weather courtesy of the tropical storm in the Gulf that kept us inside. It was definitely needed, but made the pool rather cold to swim. So, we had a low-key day at home with a BBQ and ice cream and some play-time outside after the morning showers.

A very special thank you to all our soldiers past and present keeping us safe! We appreciate all you do!

Sweet Siblings

Trying to get both to sit still

Our Firecracker!

Yes, he's playing with Kyla's pink ponies. I like to think of these pictures as blackmail for when he's 12

Polishing off Kyla's ice cream after his was gone

Showing off his ice-cream face

...and again here

Playing under the table

How my hubby sleeps while the kids are on an ice-cream high is beyond me!

Our baby boy is 18 months!

2010-06-30T18:46:00.004-05:00

How is it possible that Dylan James is already 18 months old? Seems like just yesterday he was turning one! He has learned so much in the last 6 months and it's really startling to think about all the changes. I think having a big sister has helped his development as he wants so much to keep up with her and do all the things she does. Here are just a few of the milestones:

1. running

2. uses a spoon/fork

3. trying to jump

4. dances (where ever, when ever - soon as he hears music, he's dancing!)

5. holds a crayon/marker and "draws"

6. stacks 5 blocks

7. says about 8 words - favorites being "ball" "boo-ba" (for blueberry), "up" and "night-night"

8. signs 5 words - favorite of course being "milk" and he loves to sign "thank you" as we usually cheer for the politeness

Like Kyla he's a bit of a slow talker, but this time around I'm not as worried, since Kyla talks like mad most days. I'm blaming it on John's Scottish accent and funny Scottish words.

But other than that, nothing stops this kid. He is on the go morning, noon and night! His favorite things are kicking/throwing balls, dancing, taking his sister's things and running away so she'll chase him (he's very naughty that way), swimming, playing with cars, milk, reading books, holding his "lovey" and wearing shoes (any shoes). Is it sad to say that he even likes to dress up, wear a crown and princess shoes? But besides the cross-dressing, he's definitely ALL boy. We don't call him "Mr. Trouble" and "Destructor" for nothing!

DJ had his 18 month check-up today and he is doing great. Still tall and is getting very lean like his big sister.

Height: 33-1/2 inches (75-90th percentile)

Weight: 25lbs 11oz (50th percentile)

Head Circumference: 19inches (75th percentile)

Kyla's 3rd Year Video

2010-06-21T20:36:00.003-05:00

It's taken a few months and many tweaks, but it's finally ready! It has been amazing to see the changes that have happened in one short year. Here are a few highlights:

1. She's become a real "chatty-cathy" putting together complex sentences and making up silly words

2. Potty-trained

3. Started preschool

4. Can swim under water for 6-7 seconds

5. Sleeps in a big-girl bed

6. Can pedal a tricycle

7. Counts to 20 in English and to 10 in Spanish

8. Recognizes all the letters of the alphabet and can draw a few

9. Started ballet and become quite the dancer

10. Fell in love with all things Disney Princess/Fairy

Hope you enjoy the stroll down memory lane with our sweet little girl.

Make an on-line slideshow at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Professional pictures courtesy of www.alisoneden.com, www.bloomaustin.com and www.endeavors.lifepics.com

First Trip to Barton Springs

2010-06-04T11:33:00.001-05:00

Our first trip to the infamous Austin Barton Springs. I can't believe in the six years that I've lived here, I never went before today (a crime really)! Luckily, our friend Jane from Scotland, her daughter Beth and our friend Alison also from Scotland but living in the US wanted to experience an Austin tradition.

For those who don't know it's a natural spring that is 68 degrees year round. While refreshing on a very hot day for adults in water up to mid-calf, DJ and Kyla (mid-chest deep) were freezing! Kyla was all for jumping in the "blue part" (aka the deep end), but since she and DJ can't swim, I persuaded her to go to the shallow "brown part." Kyla wasn't too keen on the slippery rocks and algae in the water, but after awhile she got more accustomed and started to swim/float around.

After our dip, we took the kids on the train around Zilker Park. It was quite the highlight even though DJ kept trying to jump off every time the train stopped. Here are a few pictures post-water adventure...

Beth and Kyla

Dylan and Beth

Riding on the train around the park

Playing on the "seal" in the playground

Miss Drama

2010-05-28T19:55:00.003-05:00

This evening I had a lovely dinner with Kyla at our favorite local restaurant, Waterloo. It's right next to the dance studio and very convenient after her Friday evening class. And bonus, they have a playpark in the back. John was out with DJ at our friend Ross' happy hour (yes, we had a baby in a bar), so it was just the girls for dinner. Everything was going great until our conversation on the ride home:

Kyla: I usually ride home from dance with Daddy

Me: Daddy's with Dylan. We had such a good dinner together and I had so much fun. I'm so glad I get to ride home with you in the car, too. Woohoo (added for emphasis)

Kyla: Don't say that!

Me: Say what?

Kyla: "woohoo." That hurts my feelings

Me: Kyla, Mommy was saying how much fun I had with you"

Kyla: You hurt Kyla's feelings. That wasn't very nice. You hurt my feelings. That's rude. You need to say sorry.

Me: I was saying something nice, but I'm sorry if I hurt your feelings

Kyla: Hurt Kyla's feelings. Very hurt.

Just call my little princess, "Miss Drama." She must get that from John. :)

Little Ladybug

2010-05-28T14:43:00.002-05:00

Don't you just LOVE ladybugs! Well, we've had a plethora of ladybugs in the backyard this summer and the kids never get tired of "holding" them and letting them crawl over their hands, feet, legs, arms and even on Kyla's back. DJ is now old enough to get in on the action. He points excitedly at the ladybug and squeals with delight as she crawls on his hand. I think the ladybugs like it too, since we mainly see them in the evening after our nightly popsicle and Dylan's hands are full of delicious fruit juice for the ladybugs to eat.

p.s. yes, the kids are naked, it's hard to keep their clothes on them in the summer

School Pictures Spring 2010

2010-05-27T10:49:00.002-05:00

I just love school photos! The funny backgrounds, the poses - pure bliss. As a kid I remember picking my outfit the day before and being excited for the break in the school day routine. And now Kyla's carrying on the tradition, coming home with her packet of photos for me to order. Doesn't she look so big?

Her class photo is a classic!

A Ballerina's First Recital

2010-05-20T13:47:00.001-05:00

Official Portrait

After the Performance

With Her VERY Proud Parents

Kyla is the farthest dancer on the left hand side, front row

"One Night" By Our Budding Photographer

2010-05-14T10:43:00.003-05:00

These were taken in January after bath time right as DJ is going to bed. I think it's a unique perspective of an almost 3 year old and also and insight into what she finds interesting. Did I mention she LOVES to take photographs!

A Relaxing Mother's Day

2010-05-14T10:20:00.002-05:00

What a perfect day! Started with a nice lie-in for me followed by breakfast in bed! The kids piled in the bed and "shared" my breakfast before hubby took them downstairs again so I could drink my coffee in peace.

I'd like to say that the rest of the day was spent enjoying the day with the family, but when you stay at home with your kids, some days the "perfect" involves only three people, "me, myself and I." So my day was spent getting my hair done, having a glass of wine in the cafe next door to the salon and getting a pedicure. John took the kids to his soccer game where they ran around crazy for 2 hours, so everyone was happy!

Of course the best part was appreciating how truly blessed I am to be Kyla and Dylan's Mom.

A few pictures from the end of the day. Not an easy task with two worn out kids

The Mother's Day celebrations started with "Muffins with Mom" on Thursday morning in her class. It was a lot of fun getting to see Kyla interact in the class room. I caught a few pictures of her playing before I left. Unfortunately, I didn't get a picture of the two of us together.

He'll probably hate me for this later....

2010-05-10T19:10:00.004-05:00

....but I really couldn't resist!

Our Smart Cookie

2010-05-05T15:56:00.004-05:00

Kyla had her 3 year check today and I'm happy to report that according to the pediatrician and she is doing great! Here are her stats:

Height: 37-1/2" (75th%)

Weight: 28.6lbs (25th%)

So basically, she is tall and lean. She's also apparently a very smart cookie because when I asked about what developments we should be looking/helping her with for in the coming year, this was the list:

1. counting to 10

2. learning her colors

3. riding a tricycle (coordinated gross motor skills)

Well.... Kyla already does all of these and has for awhile. Actually, she can count to 20 in English (sometimes forgets 14 and 15), counts to 10 in Spanish (thank you, Dora), knows all her colors including variations like "light blue" vs. "dark blue" and she can pedal her tricycle.

So as the doctor said - "she's advanced!" I take no credit for this, she's just naturally smart, good genes. Some things we do need to work on are staying dry through the night and staying in her bed during the night. She's also a bit of a perfectionist. When she colors, it's mostly inside the lines - we've actually had people comment on it thinking John or I helped her. Nope, that's her personality. That she probably does get from me.

And before I end this post, a little Kyla-ism from this morning

Me: Doesn't Daddy look handsome this morning? Like Prince Eric or Prince Charming?

Kyla: I think he looks like Donkey (from Shrek)

Nice!

Happy 3rd Birthday Kyla!

2010-04-27T23:33:00.003-05:00

How did you get to be three years old? Seems like just yesterday that I couldn't wait until you were born, imagining what you'd look like and counting down the days. The first time I held you in my arms, it was such a miracle. You will always be my idea of perfect. Perfect, because you are uniquely "you." And how "unique" you are! You constantly inspire and amaze your dad and me. Here's a small taste of your personality from today:

"I love your buttons, mama. Those are really beautiful buttons"

"I love my brother!"

"I'm too busy right now to talk to Grandpa"

"I love cake!"

"I'm sharing with my brother, mama"

"I love that girl"

And my personal favorite:

Kyla: "I see grass out my window, mama"

Me: "Me too. What kind of animals live in the grass" (I'm thinking crickets, rabbits, etc)

Kyla: "Tapirs. Tapirs live in the grass. Diego is their friend"

Me: "True, very true"

You are one smart cookie. Every night we talk about what our favorite part of the day was. And every night, mine is always a time during the day when you and DJ and I are together. I don't just say that, it's true. No matter if the day has been a peaceful one or a challenging one, you and your brother are the best part of my day and my life (and your dad too, of course). My prayer for you each night is for health and happiness, and I wish these in abundance for you today. Happy Birthday, my sweet baby girl!

Mermaid Kyla's Under The Sea Party!

2010-04-25T00:47:00.010-05:00

Mermaid Kyla!

The Infamous Cake

Kyla wanted BOTH cupcakes and a cake. Of course she did!

Table of goodies - including margaritas for the adults and "Blue Mermaid" punch for the kids

Cupcakes

"Sushi Turkey Rolls" and "Candy Sushi"

The "Under The Sea" Scene (you can't see the bubble machine or balloons)

Playing in the park

BFFs Sophie and Kyla

One of Ky's classmates, Adam

Dylan headed down the slide

Kids playing in the park

Delicious!

Enjoying the party

DJ LOVES cupcakes...

...and makes quite a mess!

Enjoying the 3rd round of cupcakes (or course she only eats the frosting!)

Note to self - take family photo prior to cupcake eating!

Blowing Out the Candles - Kyla was SO EXCITED about everyone singing "Happy Birthday" to her, and you can really see the pure joy on her face!

Why, Why, Why do I think I'm Martha Stewart?

2010-04-24T20:13:00.007-05:00

Because this is what happens when a non-professional thinks that fondant icing can't be THAT hard! After 2 tries and a HUGE mess, the cake did come out ok, but it was more work than one woman should be allowed to do. Especially without an apron!

The New Girl's Night Out

2010-03-20T20:31:00.001-05:00

Say goodbye to the mullet....

2010-03-20T19:53:00.005-05:00

....and hello to his stylin' new cut

Snow in Austin!

2010-03-19T23:02:00.004-05:00

Our Saints Superbowl!

2010-03-19T22:35:00.004-05:00

Pictures courtesy of Kyla! We had an entire New Orleans theme party complete with homemade sausage and shrimp gumbo and crusty french bread. The best part was the of course the Saints win! Unfortunately Kyla didn't get a hold of my camera until after Nicole, Will and Sophie (Kyla's BFF) left, so we didn't get any pictures of them.

Happy Belated Birthday Honey!

2010-03-19T22:30:00.002-05:00

It's sad, very sad...... that we never posted pictures from John's 35th birthday on January 30th! And even sadder that we only have this one picture. The good news is that he got a gluten-free carrot cake cupcake (his favorite) and the gifts he wanted, iPhone accessory pack and the new Lady Antebellum CD. Yes, his taste in music still runs to the "bubble gum pop" - but you never heard it from me.

Nothing like a trip to the park...

2010-03-19T22:03:00.003-05:00

in your new wagon! These pictures were taken in late December, but the wagon has been a godsend for hauling 2 kids, balls, sippy cups, snacks and the dog leash to the park.

Austin Rodeo 2010

2010-03-17T21:08:00.006-05:00

One of the highlights of Austin in March is when the rodeo comes to town! And I'm not the only one who loved it! Miss Kyla practically had to be dragged from the place. She wanted to ride every ride and see every animal. We missed the "actual" rodeo portion since it's in the evening and just a little too long for the kids to sit through. But there was plenty to do with the carnival rides, petting zoo, pony rides, animal shows and carny food!

Carousel!

Little Miss and her Pink Corvette

Riding the whales

The train

Posing with the Longhorns for Papa

The Longhorns

Very seriously riding on her pony, "Lucy"

Mum, riding here!

My sweet boy just wanted to hug all the animals at the petting zoo

Kyla found a very attentive deer

She was fascinated

DJ tried to hug the deer, but they weren't putting up with it...

...so he found some goats

Feeding the animals one kernel at a time. In her defense, a wild goat knocked all her food out of the cup when we first went in, so she wanted to conserve what was left

Lovin' the dinosaur ride!

My first ride of the day ended up being a spinning kiddie ride

I preferred "the freefall"

Riding Monkey - he and the handler have had better shows

Last ride of the day - still happy - but she was SO sad to leave

Dylan's 1st Year Video

2010-03-10T21:24:00.002-06:00

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

special thanks to some professional photographs by:

www.alisoneden.com

www.bloomaustin.com

www.endeavors.lifepics.com

Been Awhile

2010-03-06T08:59:00.003-06:00

I know. I know. I haven't posted in awhile and the blog needs a serious update. I have so many cute photos and stories to post, just not enough time in the day. My goal for the weekend is to get some newer posts up so you too and share in the hilarity that happens in the Scott house!

New Year's 2009

2010-02-11T14:43:00.005-06:00

After DJ's party, we had a few people over to ring in the new year. Completely forgot to take any photographs until after midnight and everyone had left, but our good friends, The Dobbins.

Very cool sky that night!

why?

and then Nobu got in the middle of it...

Last Days of Grandparent's Visit (Dec 09)

2010-02-11T11:26:00.004-06:00

Kyla took this photo - pretty great, I'd say!

Having our nightly tea

(taken by our budding photographer)

Dylan's Birthday Party (12/31/09)

2010-01-22T10:42:00.005-06:00

Dylan had his official birthday party in the afternoon on New Year's eve. We had a great time, very low key. The weather was GORGEOUS all day long, warm and sunny - then 5:30pm or so it got frigid with high winds. Good thing we were winding down by then. Here are few pictures from the day...

DJ's 1st Birthday!

2010-01-20T10:00:00.006-06:00

We celebrated Dylan's 1st birthday with some presents at home followed by dinner at Waterloo complete with playground. Southpark Meadows where the restaurant is located was still doing their annual Christmas music/light show, so the kiddos alternated between the slides and dancing. It was especially nice that John's parents were still in town and could celebrate with us!

DJ (with Kyla's help) opening his big present

Just like a kid, sitting on the box and gnawing on the card

Playing at the slides

Miss Kyla enjoying the day

Our family

Happy Birthday Sweet Boy!

Digging right in!

And then he's done and wants out of the chair!

All clean and ready for more fun

Gran and Papa

One big kid and one little kid

Slide method #1...

...and method #2

Gran and DJ dancing

Gran, Papa and Kyla

Doing his thing

He loves the ladies!

Need the Healing Vibes....

2010-01-14T15:42:00.002-06:00

It's been 9 LONG weeks of sickness in our house. It all started with a simple cold in mid-November that turned into an ear infection. We'd get one child better and the other one would come down with something. Poor Kyla has had an ear infection for about 6 weeks now. She's been on 4 different antibiotics and just as she'd start to get better, another cold - which caused the fluid that's never drained from her ear to flare up again.

As we were finally starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel.... we got an RSV diagnosis for both kids on Tuesday. Thankfully, we have a great pediatrician that did the RSV test even though our kids weren't exhibiting the classic signs. Since RSV is a virus we weren't prescribed any medicine, but they did warn us to watch for any secondary infection from the RSV. Well two short days later, Dylan has a severe ear infection and Kyla has fluid in her lungs and the start of a double ear infection. Thank goodness it hasn't turned into pneumonia, yet! The doctor thinks that Kyla isn't worse because she's been on a low dose maintenance antibiotic for the last 5 days. Obviously, it wasn't strong enough to deal with the secondary infection from the RSV, but kept it in check enough that Kyla doesn't have pneumonia.

So, please send some healing thoughts and prayers our way so my babies can finally be healthy!

On the bright side, our little doctor in training was VERY excited to get a "finger-poke" to check her white blood cell count and a chest x-ray. Yes, she is the only child in history who actually LOVES going to the doctor and getting poked and prodded. The nurses and doctors love her - she's their best patient, by far! They get quite a kick out of how serious she is while they work and how she watches everything they do. She's also a star pupil for opening wide and taking deep breaths. We are very lucky that our pediatrician takes the time to look at Kyla's ears and listen to her heart, even when she is healthy and the appointment is for DJ. Kyla tells me that she wants to be a pediatrician like Dr. Ruiz and help sick kids. Ahhhh....a mother's dream! Although, let's hope she becomes a doctor and not a hypochondriac!

Christmas 2009

2010-01-11T20:38:00.010-06:00

Here are some pictures from Christmas Eve and Christmas Day....

The Tree

Santa Came!

And the stockings were hung by the chimney with care...

DJ found Santa's leftover cookies

Kyla playing with her fairy doll house from Santa...

....and her pesky little brother

Opening gifts - tag team style

Yeah, that one's all mine

Trying on his "Scotland" shirt - thank you Auntie Pamela!

Showing off her new doll house furniture - thank you Purcell Family!

Nobu rockin' his Christmas bandana and generally in the middle of everything

John was surprised by his extra gift, what else would a Brit want but more cologne!

LOVING my iPhone speaker dock!

Posing with their BIG gift from us

Opening the stocking

Kyla's stocking (she picked out the nutcracker one)

Gran, Papa and DJ opening the crackers before dinner

Kyla modeling her hat

Gran and Dylan

fascinated by the hats

playing with her new cash register

Enjoying the Christmas carols

Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree...

2010-01-09T11:40:00.003-06:00

No Christmas would be complete without heading to Southpark Meadows for a bite to eat and their Christmas light show and music display. The kids had a blast tearing through the playpark and rockin' out to the tunes. It also brought back memories of last year, as this is where I went into to labor and danced like a banshee until my contractions were 2 minutes apart!

Ma and Pa Came To Visit

2010-01-07T09:39:00.007-06:00

We had a lovely visit from John's parents the last two weeks in December. For the over 60 crowd, they are pretty adventurous and outgoing and started their holidays with a 2 week voyage across the Atlantic Ocean before docking in Galveston. They arrived in Austin rested, relaxed and fairly tan for Scottish folk. :)

It was a real treat to spend Christmas together and the kids were in heaven! And even luckier for them, they missed the huge blizzard in Scotland that pretty much shut down the Glasgow area for over a week during the holiday.

Here are a few pictures from those two weeks with more to come....

Kyla and Gran enjoying a swing. How sweet is this picture?

Mummy and Kyla sharing the Scottish national past time - drinking tea

Kyla modeling the black dress Aunt Janice sent

playing "Jingle Bells"

Gran, DJ and Ky

Playing outside Austin Land & Cattle

And the family

DJ climbing rocks and Kyla showing off her dance moves

Downtown Austin

Getting a ride at Salt Lick

With the grandkids

The 4 of us

playing outside Salt Lick

No trip to Austin would be complete without going to see some longhorns

Getting up close to the longhorns

It's been a busy month...

2010-01-06T10:20:00.001-06:00

It's been crazy here since the beginning of December with John's parents visiting from Scotland for 2 weeks, Christmas, Dylan's 1st birthday and New Years. So, we are a bit late with posting pictures from all those events. I promise they will be forthcoming shortly.

Happy 1st Birthday Dylan James

2009-12-27T22:26:00.002-06:00

Church Santa Breakfast

2009-12-24T11:03:00.004-06:00

A few weekends ago, Kyla's preschool had a Santa Breakfast for all the families and church members. We absolutely LOVE the warm caring atmosphere of Manchaca United Methodist Church and Child Development Center. They just add those special touches all year round that make you truly appreciate finding a great preschool for your child.

Dylan didn't know what to make of Santa! Kyla wouldn't get any closer than 10 ft away with a chair barricade between her and Santa

Although face painting was a BIG hit!

Sitting very still and looking serious

Helping read the nativity story

And what family outing would be complete without DJ getting into trouble

Our 2009 Thanksgiving Getaway

2009-12-05T14:01:00.004-06:00

Ok, so here comes an onslaught of pictures from our Thanksgiving vacation to Sanibel/CaptivaIsland, Florida. There were just so many good ones and we just couldn't resist posting them all. I think you can see in these pictures why we love coming back to the island year after year.

p.s. Yes, I had more than one bathing suit, but apparently every time the camera was out I was wearing the blue one

Our little dancer - she stole the show at the Owners Dinner on South Seas Plantation where my dad has a condo

Grandpa and Dylan at the dinner

Kyla was fascinated by the coconut trees

I LOVE these pictures. The colors that day were amazing!

My cousin Kaitlyn and Aunt Debbie

One way to entertain a 2 year old is to have them find shells for all the relatives. Plus she was so super cute showing off her finds

GORGEOUS!

Something about Kyla's expression and pose just captures my heart

Kyla and Kaitlyn (her BFF over the holiday)

Mummy and Kyla

Someone at the condo had been out fishing and Kyla couldn't resist having a look

Grandpa (and his twin Uncle Tom to the left) with DJ

Grandpa was nice and dry before this one was taken

Great-Grandma Bea and her namesake

Kyla found a full grown coconut on the beach

Then threw it in the sand pit

Every night we walk on the beach at sunset with cocktails, or as Kyla likes to call it a "special drink" (she gets juice). She's still talking about the sunset each night

DJ was back in the condo with Grandpa

No nap means falling asleep in Great-Aunt Debbie's arms after 1 book

Manatees! I've been waiting 30+ years to see a manatee on the island and finally we got to see a mama and her calf up close!

I mean really up close!

Kyla was in heaven! Manatees were just on a recent "Diego" and how they have tails like mermaids

DJ at lunch on South Seas Plantation

Kyla and her favorite food - grilled cheese

It rained Thursday morning, so we all watched the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

Cousin Courtney and Kyla. Courtney was kind enough to swim with Kyla so I could take a wee break and sun bathe

"Mama in pool" - so my break wasn't too long

Jump shot in action...

Swimming with the floaties

Jumping from the stairs

Smoothing out her "Princess Bathing Suit"

"Up High" as Kyla calls it

My three favorite people

The Family

DJ for the 2 seconds he stayed on the towel and didn't try to put everything in his mouth

The Jackson's and Jeff Forde (Courtney's fiance)

And back to eating shells.....

Building sand castles was a big hit!

Daddy and Daughter

Down to the beach at sunset. Love, Love, Love this picture!!

Jumping into the sand pit. Not sure why people dig one of these every day

So big!

Made for a good play-pen for Dylan

Stuck!

Kyla and Gma Bea reading the "paper"

Going to "Jerry's" shopping complex to see the birds

Kyla actually got to pet this Cockatoo, while this girl did

Pointing to the green Macaw

Keeping "Mr Trouble" occupied before heading to the airport

Kyla swimming - she's getting really good!

Grandpa!

2009-11-14T13:53:00.005-06:00

Grandpa drove down for his annual "hunting" visit last week. Kyla got to show Grandpa her school and teachers and DJ got some good one on one time at home. Dad was also nice enough to tackle a few things on our "to do" list and then buy us dinner. Can't beat that!

Cuddle Before Bed

Lots of attention from Grandpa

I think Nobu misses Grandpa most of all!

Happy Monday!

2009-11-09T20:29:00.002-06:00

This picture cracks me up! Kyla is allowed one piece of Halloween candy after dinner. She got a blue lolly from her treat bag and then found the green vampire teeth at the bottom of the bag!

Happy Halloween 2009!

2009-11-06T14:38:00.007-06:00

Our Halloween festivities included a party at Kyla's dance studio, Dance Xplosion and then home for trick or treating. After we took the kids around the neighborhood, Kyla and I sat outside handing out candy and talking with the neighbors (DJ went to bed). Eventually, our three neighbors just merged the candy giving to one house, and we had our own party while the kids played in the front yard. Complete with John wearing my witches hat (if only I had gotten a picture!)

Pictures out front before DXP party

Kitty Cat

Clapping to the Music

Kyla and her friend Sophie (Daisy Duck)

Winnie the Pooh

Headed Out to Trick or Treat

The "scary" house

Candy for the poor, please

Kyla wanted to carve a happy pumpkin

Very proud of her treat bag

The family on Halloween night

Our annual Mother/Daughter picture

Helping pass out the treats

Pumpkin Festival

2009-11-05T16:21:00.003-06:00

John took Kyla and my iPhone to a local "pumpkin festival" last week. Let's just say it wasn't quite worth the $7 admission, but Kyla had a good time getting her face painted.

Pumpkin Patch

2009-11-05T15:21:00.005-06:00

A few weeks ago, we went to our local pumpkin patch for some fun with friends and a photo opp. It was very hot, humid, muggy and wet - so the photo part didn't turn out that great. But we had fun playing with friends!

Trying to get a picture of the 2 of them together

Another try, DJ was eating dirt

...and a pumpkin

...and a leaf. We don't call him "Mr. Trouble" for nothing!

Andrew, Amber and Ryan Visit

2009-10-25T18:17:00.001-05:00

Such a great surprise when John's brother Andrew and his children, Amber and Ryan came for a visit a few weeks ago. It was their first time in Austin and although the weather didn't cooperate, we hope they had a good time. Kyla certainly enjoyed seeing her cousins! Morning, noon and night, she was asking about them, especially Ryan!

Night out for steaks

Dress Up

2009-10-24T00:17:00.004-05:00

Kyla is VERY into dress up now that she has a ton of costumes in her dress up box. This one is a particular favorite, and she was a posin' for the camera!

And what girl's moment in the spotlight is complete, without her little brother interrupting it all and chewing on Ballerina Barbie?

The Perfect Bed...

2009-10-17T12:34:00.003-05:00

for Kyla and Barbie. Our girl makes us laugh!

Mr. Trouble

2009-10-13T00:13:00.001-05:00

Seriously, you can't take your eyes off this kid for a second! Before bath, I let the kids play upstairs while I get the bath started, PJs laid out, etc. Kyla was happily playing on the computer and here's where I found Mr. Trouble....

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Pumpkin Farm 2009

2009-10-11T21:07:00.005-05:00

We had a fantastic fall day at the Pumpkin Farm on Saturday. The weather was perfect - cool with sun in the afternoon! This is the 3rd year we've gone to Sweet Berry Farms and Kyla can now really enjoy all the activities. DJ enjoyed rolling in the pumpkins and crawling through the grass, just as Kyla did the 1st year we went. It was one of those days that makes you truly appreciate the blessing of having children and seeing the world through their eyes.

Our One Good Picture of the Two of Them Together

Our Family

Little Miss Pumpkin Patch

Our Artiste - First Thing She Wanted to Do Was Paint

Mr. Trouble Wanted To Paint To

Whoa, Goats!

Such a Big Boy

Kyla Always Loves To See the Animals

Kyla's BFF Sophie Was There Too

Our Cowgirl Rode The Horse - She Wanted to Get Off After It Started Walking, but Bravely Stayed On and Enjoyed the Whole Thing

Riding the Tractor One of the Highlights

DJ Needed A Power Nap with my iPhone Cover In Place of a Passie

Love Me Some Punkins

Sweet Berry Farm

Yeehaw!

Fighting Over the Tractor

The Speedboat is Fun, Too

And, I'm Done!

And a video of Kyla on her horse

How Is He 9 Months Old?

2009-10-06T10:04:00.008-05:00

This kid won't sit still! Unless he's sleeping, he's constantly on the move. It's a full on battle to get his diaper changed, clothes on or car seat buckled. I was actually really lucky to even get this one picture of him.

He's also got a really LONG reach as we've learned the hard way. He can reach all the way onto our kitchen table and start pulling anything he can get his hands on. Usually that's a place mat with a loaded plate, utensils and drink. And if that wasn't enough, DJ is an expert climber too! Anything he can use to climb higher, he'll find. It's no wonder he's got a permanent bruise on his forehead. Yeah, it's a barrel of laughs around here!

DJ also had his 9 month checkup and he's doing great, except for a pesky ear infection that won't go away. We are on the 2nd round of antibiotics, but hopefully it'll clear up soon. Here are his latest stats:

Weight - 21lbs 14oz (75th% - he's actually lost a pound from all the activity)

Height - 29-1/2" (90th% - yep, he's tall)

Head - 46.5cm (between 75th-90th%)

Dylan has 4 teeth right now and is cutting two more, which basically means he's a drool machine! He's LOVING his two front teeth and blows "raspberries" with abandon! To which Kyla responds "no sipping (spitting) DoDo!" Cracks me up every time. And yes, she still calls him "DoDo" (sounds like "DoeDoe"). Sometimes she'll say Dylan or DJ, but mostly just DoDo. Hopefully it won't stick, poor kid.

Oh, and Dylan got a mini-haircut last week to trim what I like to call his "Caesar" sideburns. Those pieces of hair that constantly curl forward making him look like Julius Caesar.

Dylan's Book Time

2009-09-18T21:56:00.004-05:00

Dylan is now old enough to enjoy a little night time reading before bed without actually spending the entire time trying to eat the books. Ok, he does spend about 1/2 the time trying to eat the books, but enjoys the story in between gnawings. Kyla likes the big sister job of picking out DJ's books and helping with the stories.

That Darling Bum

2009-09-12T23:35:00.005-05:00

Hallelujah! We are on the road to successful potty training ever since Kyla's first day of preschool a week ago. She came home and announced she needed to use the potty and wanted to wear her big girl panties. She's got a collection of the Disney princesses (Cinderella, Aurora, Ariel, Belle) and Tinkerbell that she loves and is very particular deciding which ones she wants to wear. I couldn't resist taking a picture of her new tiny silhouette sans diapers and the cutest little bum!

Dylan's 8 Month Pictures...

2009-09-09T15:03:00.002-05:00

...a little late.

As predicted, at 7-1/2 months he was crawling everywhere, so it's hard to pin this kid down to take a picture. He's also started pulling to standing on everything he can get his hands on. Miss Kyla is having to move her "precious" things to higher ground. And lastly, he's getting 2 more teeth - top center ones.

Couldn't keep him from the sign for long

Pulling Up

Couldn't resist taking one of him sleeping so soundly

And here are some from his room finally finished. One note - never purchase a huge chair while it's in a large room vs. a small child's bedroom. It's HUGE in there. At least it's super comfy!

Happy Labor Day Weekend

2009-09-07T22:03:00.006-05:00

A 3-day weekend is perfect for getting out with the family for the best BBQ in Texas - Salt Lick! Those of you addicted to their sauce, know what I'm talking about! We had our wedding rehearsal dinner here, so it's so much fun to go back now as a family! Hope everyone had a great end of summer weekend, too (although here in Texas it will feel like summer for another month at least)!

Our Mermaid

2009-09-07T15:47:00.003-05:00

Kyla has graduated from "Waterbabies" to "Extreme-Waterbabies" at her swim school. She went from tentatively putting half her face under to diving in and swimming under water within 2 classes. To be fair, mostly it was due to another little girl who Kyla just adored and wanted to imitate. This little girl was swimming under water for 9 seconds at 18 months! Well Kyla saw her and that was that! Gotta love peer-pressure at 2 years old!

Now Kyla is swimming 7 seconds under water and Miss Britney her swim teacher said they'd increase that each week or so. Our little mermaid will be swimming on her own in no time!

The Hazards of Crawling...

2009-09-06T14:10:00.001-05:00

...and a big sister who likes to see him "roll-over." Which means she sweeps his hands out from under him, making his head hit the floor - usually the tile one. Miss Kyla has been in time-out a number of times for that one. But our happy little guy just keeps chugging along.

Notice the black-eye and forehead bruise

Riding The Bus

2009-09-04T14:58:00.002-05:00

Happily On the Bus

Looking Out the Window

Waiting At the Return Bus Stop

Every time we are out in the car and Kyla sees a bus, she asks to get on it. So, as a special treat for going on the potty the last few days - we ventured to the bus stop today (with Dylan in tow in the sling). Kyla was SO excited to sit in the chair in the back and look out the window. Here's how the dialogue went:

Kyla: I can see lots of people

Me: yes, lots of people out there

Kyla: there's a school bus!

Me: yes, that's a great school bus

Kyla: on school bus next?

Me: sorry honey, only this bus today

Kyla: ok

Kyla: what's that man (on the bus) doing?

Me: he's dancing (only thing I could come up)

Kyla: Oh.

Then back to looking out the window. We basically went down a big avenue, then got off to catch the bus back up it again to our car. The minute we got off she said "again?" :)

Kyla's First Day of Preschool

2009-09-03T10:06:00.005-05:00

First Day of School Picture

(she insisted on sitting like this)

She was so excited this morning and ran right in to see her teachers and hug her BFF Sophie. I was a bit teary-eyed seeing my baby, my first born as such a big girl now. It's so wonderful, yet bitter-sweet, you know what I mean? I tried to snap picture after picture of her to memorialize the moment, but Kyla only allowed so much before she was off playing - and frankly who can blame her.

And yes, we do match but that's because my independent child has a "matching" obsession right now. She has to match what I'm wearing, what Dylan is wearing, what a girl she sees is wearing or what someone on TV or in her books is wearing. We go through multiple outfits a day and it's a bit exhausting. But hey, I think it's payback or something from the Universe, because it sounds like something my mom used to say about me! :) Oh, and don't get me started on the hair accessories or how it has to look. Right now we are in the "Tinkerbell/Cinderalla" phase of needing our hair in a ponytail.

September

2009-09-01T22:08:00.003-05:00

I was putting up the September calendar and suddenly realized my toddler has an almost full week's schedule - at 2 years old! These are just Kyla's plans, I hadn't yet written in John's or my appointments. And this is just her scheduled activities, not just the fun things we do on different days, like the library, book store, park, pet store, etc. It's just crazy how early the scheduling of our kid's lives begin. Don't get me wrong, I'm thrilled she has things that she loves to do and that keep her mind and body active, but it's a reminder how quickly the baby stage goes and to embrace every last minute, before true independence begins.

The Messy Twins

2009-08-29T09:44:00.002-05:00

This picture gave me a laugh, hope it does for you too!

Big Girl Bed

2009-08-23T13:25:00.005-05:00

Miss Kyla has been asking for a big girl bed for awhile now, so we converted her crib to a toddler bed a few nights ago, complete with pink sheets just like she wanted. She was so excited when it was all done and has been giddy for naps and bedtime ever since.

Truth be told, I got a tad emotional seeing her in it the first night - my baby is a little girl! I set that crib up myself before she was born and can picture the first time we put her in it and she was so tiny. Sometimes it's hard to see them grow up, but peeking in on her at night all tucked in her big bed with a soft smile on her face, makes it all ok.

Bed All Made and Ready To Go

Tucked In For the Night

Pretending To Sleep

When Kyla Saw This Picture, She Said "Peek-A-Boo"

Too Excited To Sleep

A Boy and His Passies

2009-08-22T15:02:00.004-05:00

Went to get Dylan up from his nap the other day and this is how he greeted me! The boy LOVES his passies! He really hadn't used a passie in months, but all of a sudden - he's back on the passie bandwagon. We put a whole bunch in his bed, so he can find them at night if he needs to and in the morning, he happily plays with them for 30 minutes or more! Rule #1 though - they have to stay in the bed, he isn't allowed to have them anywhere else.

Playing with his "TV"

Passie, TV and Mummy make for a happy boy!

Passie Posse

Good for teething, too

Then Miss Kyla woke up and she loves to climb into his bed

Lounging - and I swear I didn't place him like that, he got there all by himself

Playing Together

Like brother, like sister

Hair Towel

2009-08-19T13:11:00.003-05:00

A funny "hump-day" picture of Kyla. She wanted her hair wrapped in a towel on top of her head like I do each day after my shower. She's looking at herself in the mirror and very proud of the result!

Playground

2009-08-17T15:08:00.007-05:00

Kyla and I have been going to our neighborhood playground since she was a baby. My grandmother and I actually took Kyla there in the pram when she was 2 weeks old and sat on the park bench, so I could get out of the house after having a c-section. Anyway.... it's still a favorite spot and with the blazing hot summer we are having, we try to go as many mornings as possible before it gets too hot. The kids were having such a good time the other morning, so I started taking some pictures with my iPhone. That's when I realized what a big girl Kyla has become!

I used to dream of the days when I could sit on the bench and relax while she played on the jungle gym, well those days are here! She would beg me to help her climb "the beanstalk" before she could even reach the "leaves" with her feet. And now she can climb it all by herself! And she would look up longingly watching the "big kids" climb on the bars, and now with a bit of assistance to get to the first rung - she can climb it! She is so proud of her accomplishments and so am I, but a tad nostalgic. Of course then I remember little DJ, who still needs help just playing on the first level of the structure and I have my baby back!

On the first rung

Almost There

At the top!

Climbing "the beanstalk"

For comparison - Kyla at 8 months

Where's DJ, you may ask? Happily playing in his stroller

Enjoying the jungle gym

(no, he's not falling over, he was excitedly waving his arms when I took the picture)

Kyla's Prayers

2009-08-14T21:13:00.003-05:00

After the "now I lay me down to sleep" intro, we say "God Bless Mummy, Daddy, Dylan, etc." Go through both sides of the family and then we ask Kyla if she wants to say any special blessings for anyone. Here is a small sample of how it goes:

Kyla: God Bless Kyla

Us: God Bless Kyla

Kyla: God Bless Papa

Us: God Bless Papa

Kyla: God Bless Kyla, too

Us: God Bless Kyla, again

Kyla: God Bless Eva and Jade

Us: God Bless Eva and Jade

Kyla: Kyla, too

Us: yes, we already said Kyla

Kyla: God Bless Kyla

Us: Ok, God Bless Kyla

Kyla: Grandpa

Us: God Bless Grandpa

Kyla: Sophie

Us: God Bless Sophie

Kyla: Kyla, too

Us: Ok, done with prayers, ready to say "amen"?

Kyla: God Bless Kyla

Us: Ok, God Bless Kyla. Amen.

Kyla: Amen and Kyla, too

Yes, two year olds really do believe the world revolves around them. :)

A Small Sample of the Fun in Our House!

2009-08-12T13:17:00.001-05:00

Slice of Life

2009-08-11T22:38:00.004-05:00

Enjoying some time on the front porch one morning.

He's His Father's Son

2009-08-11T20:48:00.003-05:00

This kid LOVES the TV! Any TV. Today Show, CNN, Children's programs, static on the TV - he'll swivel his head 180 degrees to get a better look. And this is his classic "TV Coma" face. His father's son for sure!

Dylan at 7 Months

2009-08-08T22:18:00.007-05:00

DJ has learned lots of new tricks in the last month! It's just amazing how fast they go from being helpless infants to on-the-go babies! Here's a look at what he's been up to.

Sitting up by himself consistently

Holding his bottle by himself. Sometimes. He likes to play with it and the milk gets everywhere

He got 2 teeth! Can you see them in the picture below? The first bottom tooth started breaking through 1 week after his 6 month birthday. Followed closely by the 2nd bottom tooth. He got his first teeth a full 2 months+ before Kyla did, so we were surprised when they started poking through.

Trying to Crawl!!

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In the last week, he has also learned to get from a hands-and-knees position to sitting again. This boy just wants to move! Probably to keep up with his sister. She is always on the go and he spins around, rolls and tries with all his might to get to her and whatever toy she is playing with. He really dislikes when we are all in the family room playing and then Kyla and I get up and go to the kitchen and leave him by himself on the floor. He lets us know that he wants to be where the action is too. I'm pretty sure he will be crawling in the next few weeks.

Hot Summer Day...

2009-08-08T19:55:00.005-05:00

...is perfect weather for the pool. We all took a dip one afternoon in the 104 degree heat, even Dylan who went commando for a quick dip when he got bored playing on the porch. The two of them had a great time just playing on the stairs in the pool floating and splashing. On these hot Texas days, I'm so grateful we have our own pool!

Kyla modeling her new bathing suit from Aunt Janice!

Cooling Off in the Pool

Floating on the Steps

Kyla made sure Barbie was included in the family shot

I included this shot to show that although DJ is 20lbs, he's not a typical "chubby" baby - he solidly built and LONG! As you can see, his ribs show through in this picture where "the rolls" would be. Don't get me wrong however, he's got some yummy squeezable rolls on his legs!

Miss You Already

2009-08-02T22:43:00.003-05:00

Girlfriends are just irreplaceable. Especially ones who've been there through the most wonderful and hardest times of your life - like having a baby or two. My good friend Staci (from my Austin mom's group of three) is moving to California this week. Tonight, Staci, Mollie and I went out for a "fond farewell and good luck" girl's night out. What a fun evening reminiscing, talking about ourselves and our kids and dreaming (and laughing) about the future. We ended the night in peels of laughter - just like you should with good girlfriends. I think you can tell from the blurry unlit iPhone photos - we had a good time - as usual!

3 Peas in a Pod

Beautiful Staci

We'll miss you terribly Staci! Kyla will definitely miss her soul-mate Aidric - the one boy who can make her laugh like no other. We wish you all the happiness in the world! Happy Trails!

6Ft Elmo is Scary!

2009-07-29T22:50:00.002-05:00

Dylan, Kyla and I went with Nicole and Sophie to the Grand Opening of a toy store in the neighborhood. We thought the girls would like seeing Elmo - - - BIG MISTAKE! Kyla cowered behind a doll house and Sophie kept saying "Elmo leave now" and the only one who didn't seem to mind (although a bit confused) was Dylan. Luckily, Elmo didn't stay long and the kids enjoyed looking at all the toys and games. Dylan even won a Truck book in the raffle!

The expression on Dylan's face cracks me up every time!

Sophie and Kyla holding hands - such sweet friends!

Feeding Dylan

2009-07-29T22:33:00.002-05:00

Priceless!

Dance Class

2009-07-21T21:39:00.003-05:00

Taken on two different Saturdays in both her outfits. Doesn't she look grown-up? ***sigh***

Scottish Treats!

2009-07-19T20:36:00.003-05:00

Headed downtown to "Things Celtic" this afternoon because....drum roll please..... they started stocking British/Irish food! The highlight was of course the importation of Irn Bru - and even better Diet Irn Bru (John and I agree, we only drink our calories if they contain alcohol)! For those who haven't had Irn Bru - it's like orange soda, but with the taste of orange St. Joseph's aspirin. Unfortunately "Mr. Celiac" (aka my hubby) couldn't eat a lot of the menu, including Tayto's crisps (in the yummy flavors of Prawn Cocktail, Wuster Sauce and Smokey Bacon), scone mixes and oat cakes. But we did pick up bottles of Diet Irn Bru, tins of Haggis (tastes better than it sounds) and a huge box of Barry's Irish Breakfast Tea. And for Kyla a book of fairy tattoos. A good day!

Posing next to the Irn Bru and Haggis

Matching Scottish Kits

Kyla and the sweeties

(they were giving away samples that kept her entertained - and being my daughter she preferred the "Butter-Mints" to the Smarties/M&Ms)

Body Art

2009-07-19T20:31:00.004-05:00

Stamps are very big in our house. Kyla has to have all of them used on her. Twice. Even her toes have flower stamps.

Our Flower Fairy

2009-07-06T22:46:00.004-05:00

Kyla loves to watch Tinkerbell the movie (movie time = my chance to cook dinner). The other day when it was on and Kyla ran over to get her flower headband. She told me that she was a flower fairy like "Rosetta" in the movie. I'm just glad she didn't want to be Shrek - her 2nd favorite movie! :)

Happy 1/2 Birthday DJ

2009-07-03T13:52:00.006-05:00

I can't believe that Dylan James is 6 months already! Where does the time go? He is really growing into a happy, mellow little guy just like his big sister. Are you ready for his latest stats?

Weight: 19.8lbs (85th%)

Length: 28" (90th%)

Head: 45cm (85th%)

Conclusion: He's a BIG boy! Our future sports superstar! Doctor says he's perfectly proportioned and that's the main thing at this age. But man, it's getting difficult to find clothes for him that are long enough and appropriate for his stage (i.e. not walking). I'm having to import them from Scotland, where they grow them tall.

Mr. Baby Love (yes, both my kids have various nicknames - I get this from my mom) has many new accomplishments including:

1. Sitting up by himself. Unfortunately, his big melon pulls him over frequently, but he's getting better.

2. Moved to the big car seat due to his height and weight. Plus my poor back could not take lugging his infant seat around. He's now sitting in the grocery carts like a big boy. Bad news is that because he's not completely proficient at sitting up, he leans into Kyla in the grocery cart, which she doesn't like. Ahhhh... the sibling annoyances start so early!

3. Sleeping through the night!! Hallelujah! It's a beautiful thing. We had a few rough nights there of sleep training for all of us (except Kyla who sleeps like a log), but the worst seems to be over. Now he's sleeping better during the night and during his naps. He seems happier during the day as well. One of the biggest things I've learned is that he needs to be on a pretty strict schedule including feeding times and intervals between feedings. Otherwise, he doesn't get enough to eat and is truly hungry at night.

4. Belly laughs! This kid is a laugher! He thinks so many things are funny, but of course no one is as funny as Kyla. He LOVES her! Loves to watch her and just lights up when she interacts with him. For some reason Kyla likes his head. She rubs it, head-locks it, kisses it, puts toys on it, eskimo kisses it and messes with it in general.

5. His hair has gotten so long. He's going to need a trim soon since it's hanging over his ears. Sadly, I think he inherited my cowlicks, poor thing. His hair does some interesting things.

I could go on and on about my little love, but I'll stop there. Safe to say, that we are more in love with him every day. Life as four is good!

Puddles!

2009-06-30T15:34:00.003-05:00

Today we got some much needed rain, and a much needed cooling off. I love how the world looks after a fresh rain-fall - the colors seems so vibrant and the air smells sweet. And what better way to celebrate than jumping in puddles! Kyla even asked me to make more rain when the puddles started to dry up. Sweet baby girl!

Big Smiles

Already "messing" with her brother

DJ was all smiles

Jumping In the Puddles

Even some somersaults

Dylan was happy to just sit in his Bumbo seat watching Kyla

Hello, my name is "Independent"

2009-06-27T19:53:00.004-05:00

Yes, that's a red bow. Yes, she is wearing a pastel pink and purple dress. And yes (although you can't see it) she wore white sandals with bright multi-colored flowers on them. No, none of it matched. And yes, she INSISTED on wearing only those things.

So if you saw us at the HEB grocery store on Slaughter Lane - it wasn't her mother's idea!