Blyth Family Blog

Halloween!

2011-11-02T15:35:00.000-07:00

Jessie & Woody

We had a great Halloween weekend. The kids were SO excited to wear their costumes and actually lucked out and had a few different occasions to show them off. We went to Ava's school's Harvest Party on Friday, then on Saturday took off to Portland for the Toy Story 3 show of Disney on Ice. The kids LOVED it, I honestly got choked up seeing the excitment on their faces when the show started. It was awesome. Then on Monday, we took the kids over to our annual Halloween party at the Vigelands. The kids made out like bandits trick-or-treating. I only wish I hadn't forgotten my camera!

26.2

2011-10-25T17:25:00.000-07:00

We Did It! 26.2 miles in the BAG, baby!

We did it alright, and I've got the blisters to prove it. Guess I should have put some band aids on my feet like Galen did with his nipples.

Photos By: http://www.shawnlinehan.com/ Thanks so much Shawn!

Coasties

2011-10-24T20:06:00.000-07:00

Ahhhh...I love the Oregon Coast. I love any coast actually but the Oregon Coast is really one of the very best. We were lucky enough to get away for a long weekend in Manzanita. Everything about this stretch of coastline is incredible. We had such a fantastic time at our crazy little Blyth-Grout-Porter family reunion. We really do have the best families ever. Thanks so much to my Mom and Dad for housing all of us in the huge Old School House. There's something about the ocean that just does something to my soul. I love it. I love that my dogs love it. I especially love that my kids and their cousins love it. I would give just about anything to live on the beach (though Bend aint too bad either)...

Painting Pumpkins

2011-10-14T15:25:00.000-07:00

Cabo Hace Mucho Calor En Septiembre!

2011-10-11T19:15:00.000-07:00

En Fuego. Mui En Fuego. I know, I'm not very good at Spanish, I'm actually asking Galen how to spell Spanish words as I write this. But that's how I felt in Mexico last month. It was fricken HOT. So hot that I hardly remember most of the trip. Yes, that's right, I hardly remember the trip at all because in order to cool myself down in the oppressive heat I was forced to hydrate myself with copious amounts of Dos Equis and Margaritas (what? Have you heard what's in the water there? Yeah, I knew, but that kinda backfired on me after we got back. Note to self, you can get Montezuma's Revenge from the ICE they put in your drinks. Wish I would've thought of that and avoided the accidental "cleanse" I experienced when I got home...but you don't want to hear about that do you? No, I didn't think so, back to our HOT vacation, not to be confused with anything HOT associated with my bowels). Other than the sun turning us into complete alcoholics for the week (don't worry folks, the kids were safe and sound at Babbie and Papa's house in Bend), we had a total blast. We fished for tuna in very rough seas, took in a snorkel (eh-hem, okay who am I kidding) a BOOZE cruise, hung out in the pools, even took in a wedding! Colin's new bride Kelly was beautiful, and I'm so happy to have her in the family. We're looking forward to many more vacations with this crew! But maybe if we do Mexico again, lets go in December, K?

So We Fell Off The Face Of The Earth For The Summer...

2011-09-30T21:59:00.000-07:00

Well. Well. Well. Hey there blogosphere! It's been awhile, hasn't it? I've missed you. I'm not going to apologize for my absence though, nope. Instead, I'm going to revel in the fact that this has been our best summer yet. Yep, we took it in, Every. Single. Minute. Camping, BBQs, pool time, camping, visits from friends, picnics, cabin weekends, Bend festivals, camping, long nights in the Game Room, golfing, the County Fair, Seattle, camping, weddings... oh, and did I mention camping??? It was a pretty amazing couple of months, that's for shizzle. September was upon us before we knew it, and you know what that means? My Dad's birthday, Ava's birthday, our 8th anniversary, and... KINDERGARTEN!!!

So, my friends, I'm not going to apologize for my lack of posts the past few months, but I will give you a little peek of what we've been up to:

Cabin with the Birds clan. The next generation (minus baby Avery)

And, the past generations!

with my Dad's oldest friend in the world. Mac, and his wife Lynne.

We had a HOT day at the Deschutes County Fair.

Seattle kids reunion!

Eden's birthday party Max's new twinnies, Smith and Wyatt Miles was the Ring Bearer at Tyler and Jenaya's beautiful wedding.

We've become a wee bit obsessed with camping...In the Rooster that is. No, we didn't already step up to that amazing Airstream, but you can see the Rooster and Butterball in the reflection. Oh to dream!

Please don't call CPS. We bath our children, just not in the woods.

My little Kindergartner on her FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL!!

FIVE

2011-09-25T15:21:00.000-07:00

My Baby Girl is FIVE!!

I honestly cannot believe it, how fast five years have gone by. Living with Ava is such a blast. She's crazy and fun and messy and stylish and silly and creative and brilliant and happy and oh so full of light. The past five years have been filled with a ton of laughter and a whole lotta love. I'm so happy and proud to call Ava my daughter.

In honor of Princess Ava's big day, we asked her about her favorite things...Here goes, in her own words...

Favorite Color: Pink (no surprise there)!

Favorite Thing To Wear: Dresses and my new cowgirl boots!

Favorite Book: Disney Princess Book (her dad just LOVES to read this book over and over and over again, every single night)!

Favorite Food: Bean and Cheese Burrito

Favorite Song: Don't Stop Believing (by Journey. Nice call kid).

Favorite Person: Seth (our next door neighbor/her "boyfriend")

Favorite Toy: Barbies

Favorite Saying: Neeeiiiiigh!! (like a horse. She pretends to be a horse most of the time).

Favorite Thing To Do: Recess

Favorite Place To Be: Nonie and Grumpa's house

Favorite Game: Tag

Favorite TV Show: Dino Dan

Favorite Movie: Tangled

Favorite Pet: "Calipiller" (the poor caterpillar she caught the other day. Guess the dogs just aren't as cool). Favorite Friend: Jadyn and Sadie

Yesterday, we had a little family party at Shevlin Park (her big birthday party will be next weekend). On the menu? Hot dogs and Mac N Cheese of course, and instead of cake, the birthday girl insisted upon doughnuts (a girl after my own heart)! The kids had a blast splashing in the stream and playing in the sand, and the birthday girl made out like a bandit with the gifts. Barbie Barbie Barbie!!!

You're An Official Oregonian When...

2011-08-02T12:00:00.000-07:00

You purchase a 1970 VW Riviera...and you're oh so proud of it...

Your kids play for hours in the Metolius River...

You play the name game around the camp fire until 4 in the morning...

And you let your kids stay up WAY past their bedtime, cause, what the hell, you're in the woods!

You can consume WAY more beer than you used to...

You go for an hour hike and your kids don't complain once, instead they collect flowers and leaves to bring home...

A snuggle on the hammock is WAY better than any cartoon...

The men desperately try to catch fish for dinner...

The kids (and adults) enjoy many intense games of Bocce Ball...

Your two year old could care less that his mother forgot his shoes, and walks around barefoot all weekend...

You have views like this...

Your husband drives his VW bus around town with no shirt...and wears the same pair of swim trunks for 3 days straight...

You consider having this as your Christmas card photo...

And your friends consider having this as their Christmas card photo...

Yep, we all may be transplants...but I think we're official now!

Just Another Blyth Bash

2011-08-01T11:50:00.000-07:00

Wait, what happened to July?? August, I'm not ready for you yet!
Where has my summer gone? I guess we've been busy, and I really need to play catch up on my neglected little blog.

Well, a few weeks ago, we headed up to Sea-Town for cousin Josh and Susan's wedding. As usual, with any Blyth family reunion, it was a total blast. The kids got to play with their cousins and the adults spent most time drinking keg beer and sitting around the fire pit in Faline and Duncan's back yard. My kind of weekend! If only I had 3 extra hours to upload all of the photos I took...here are a few from the weekend.

Ava finally got to meet her cousin Acacia. These two were instant best friends.

Miles and Marley

Galahad, Rose, Marley and Galen.

With our baby girl at the rehearsal dinner in the Blyth's backyard.

Ava and Auntie Jessie

Kelley Soon-To-Be Blyth! Cannot wait for their wedding in Mexico!

Family Portraits!

Ava and her cousin Peter danced the night away...

The beautiful couple.

Dancing with my Man.

Jason, Uncle (Scrank) Frankie and Galen

Such a fun time! Now bring on Mexico in a month for the next crazy Blyth wedding!!

Weber Time

2011-07-13T08:39:00.000-07:00

I know, I know, I've been a bad blogger. It's summer, we've been BUSY!
A couple weeks ago we were lucky enough to have the Webers come visit us in Bend from Seattle. It was such a fun weekend. We ate out, enjoyed some pool time, toured around downtown, took in a festival, went for a long walk by the river, went beer tasting (with 4 kids), and watched the kids have an absolute blast together. A great weekend indeed! We are so fortunate to have such great friends, with such incredible kids. Addy, Eden, Ava and Miles entertained each other the entire time. Talk about parent Heaven! Now...if only we could find Dan a job in Bend...

A lazy walk at the Old Mill

The Weber Family (and a nice pic of Susy's buff legs)

Best buddies, Ava and Addy

What's a kid vacation without a bath tub pic for future embarrassment?

After a LONG day...A story with Galen.

And my favorite memory of the weekend...Eden is too cool for school (no, this was not planned and I did not teach her how to flip me off).

Summertime, And The Livings' Easy...

2011-06-30T21:30:00.000-07:00

It's easy alright. It's been summer here in Bend for the past month, and summertime in Bend means HOT summer days, spent at the pool, with these crazy kids. So, it's not as relaxing as a summer vacation, but it sure beats the cold.
How's that rain treating ya Seattleites?

So You Think You Can Dance?

2011-06-29T20:21:00.000-07:00

Well, Ava sure thinks she can!
And dance she did at her recital. Yup, the fam packed up to watch our little princess, and her cousin Jadyn Leigh, tear up the stage.
Ava's class was, well, lets just say they didn't look like they'd been listening too intently to their instructor the past 6 months...but they sure looked cute!
Jadyn's class, on the other hand, kicked butt. My little niece was in her element, a performer, just like her mama. She even did a cartwheel during her jazz performance. If only I got any of it on video.
I did, however, get lots of pictures!

So, I didn't get any video of the actual recital, but I did however, get some very exciting footage of the girls practicing in class. So, grab a cocktail (you might need a stiff one), sit back, relax, and watch a bunch of 4 year olds try to dance, in unison...brace yourselves folks, brace yourselves!

Road Trip: Chelan, Idaho & Spokane (mixed with some rain, some sun, and some Karaoke)

2011-06-23T08:06:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago, the kids and I packed up the car and made the long trek to one of my favorite places on earth, Lake Chelan. Coffey was nice enough to invite us to stay for a few days at her grandpa's time share at Wapito Point. I basically grew up in Chelan, we spent every summer there as kis, but I haven't been back there in forever! I was so excited to bring the kids to a place that holds so many special memories in my heart. We had a blast, even though it rained for an entire day! But, like every time I'm with her, Coffey and I found a way to have fun despite the rain, and even found some time in the sun!

After a great 3 days in Chelan, we drove to Ellensburg to meet up with Galen, said our good-buys to Coffey and Raleigh, and drove on to Spokane to visit these two (Colin and Kelly (soon to be Blyth)

We were also lucky enough to drive out to Athol Idaho to see Uncle Jason, Yvonne, and little Hallie (who isn't so little anymore)! Ava wasn't too impressed with Idaho, in fact, during our drive out there she said: "There's NOTHING here!!"
Here's Miles, Ava and cousin Hallie

Back in Spokes, I was so happy to get to see my long lost love Abbie. The kids were lucky enough to get to go to her son Hunter's birthday party as well.

And, unfortunately for the neighbors, and anybody watching us for that matter, we got down with a little Karaoke late night. Let's just say we were a little "tired" on the drive back to Bend!

Rock on Galen, Rock on.

A fun-filled ultra busy week indeed! I'm still catching up on my z's!

The Graduate

2011-06-21T20:20:00.000-07:00

Yikes! An entire month has passed since my last post. The Blyth Fam has been busy busy busy. I'm going to try and catch up on my posts one day at a time...here goes...

I can't believe Ava will be off to kindergarten in the fall. About a month ago (yes a month, bad blogger, bad!) we sent her off in style at her big pre-school graduation. It was quite a performance including songs and dances, if only we had a better seat to get some video. Oh well. Just hum the graduation theme song in your head while looking at this post... "daaaa da da da daaaaa daaaaa, daaaa da da da daaaaa daaaaa....."

"Mommy, can you see me? I'm here!!! I'm right here!!!"

Wait, is that Stevie Nicks? Oh, nope, just the school's director.

Ava and her favorite teacher Miss Bobbie.

Here's what Ava teacher said about her favorite student: "we'll always remember Ava for all of her hugs and snuggles, her love of art and horses, and her inner and outer Diva!"

Congratulations to our little Diva. We are so proud of you!

Baby Baby Baby Ohhhhhhhh

2011-05-18T20:08:00.000-07:00

Sorry, I have a cold, Bieber Fever comes with the territory. But, I did get to see a brand-spanking-new-lil-bundle-of-joy this past weekend, actually, I got to see THREE brand-spanking-new-little-bundles-of-joy! Ava and I took a girls trip up to Seattle to meet baby Raleigh (and were lucky enough to also meet baby Smith and baby Wyatt).

I've been waiting for this moment ever since Coffey told me she was preggers. Meet baby Raleigh. My new love. It's always such a joy to meet a new baby. But it's pretty incredible to meet one of your very best friend's baby. Coffey and Steve sure made a good one.

It was so wonderful staying at the Rinabarger home with this little punkin. I loved rocking him for hours. Thanks so much for having me stay and help you guys. You both are going to be such wonderful parents. I can't believe how you guys already take the ups, and especially the downs of having a new baby in stride. Raleigh is one lucky little boy!

Of course, we had to see Ava's Seattle buddies (and my other besties) while we were in Seattle. Here's Tristan, Addy, Eden, Ava, and Baby Raleigh (Brayden was sleeping in the stroller) at Kelsey Creek Farm.

I cannot get enough of this kid's sweet face!

A perfect afternoon. The kids had a blast, the sun was shining, and I was in heaven just being with these girls. I miss you guys SO SO SO much.

We were also lucky enough to see the Sandusky family and their new twin boys Smith and Wyatt! I unfortunately don't have a photo (Coffey you need to send me that one!) The babies are precious, strong and healthy as can be. Big brother Walter is doing great (and is officially in love with Ava), Scotty is a fantastic daddy and I just can't say enough about Max. WOW...first of all, the woman looks INCREDIBLE!! It's insane, like, she looks bikini ready, not that she just had TWINS 18 days ago! AND, she's completely calm and at ease. I'm so proud of you Max, and so happy for your beautiful family!

So...here we are, at home and for the past 4 days suffering from the dreaded "Seattle Flu" with a tinge of "Bieber Fever." Please think good thoughts for a speedy recovery before the weekend. I've got stuff to do.

It's Official!

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

Ok, this is going to be a bit of a brag fest, but I just couldn't resist...I appologize for being that annoying mom ahead of time!
My little sassafras is officially going to Kindergarten in the fall, and she is SO excited about it! After much thought, we decided it was best to have Ava take the Early Entry Assessment with the school district. The cut off for kindergarten aged children is September 1, her birthday is September 24, and we've known she's been ready for kindergarten for a long time, but not this ready...SHE PASSED WITH FLYING COLORS! 99% to be exact! I'm so happy, proud and impressed with my little smarty pants. The psychologist who tested her told me "I have never worked with a more intelligent and outgoing person at this age, you really have an extraordinary child on your hands" WOW... music to my ears. Then she went on to tell me how much she loved her outfit (Ava picked it out of course). Anyway, I am happy to tell you that my little preschooler is moving on in the world, and I couldn't be more proud.
Here are her scores (only a small amount of kids who take this test even pass)!
Receptive Language: 97%
Fine Motor Skills: 98%
Reading: 98%
Math: 97%
Cognitive Skills: 99%

Way to go BIG girl! We are so proud of you!

Our Favorite Work Out

2011-05-05T15:33:00.000-07:00

Bouncing Bouncing Bouncing!

Oh Mr. Sun

2011-05-03T07:37:00.000-07:00

I love the sun. I love the sun. I love the sun. Have I mentioned I love the sun?
And, because Mr. Sun decided to shine down on Bend this weekend, we celebrated with bike rides, long runs, many a trip to the park, a little fishing, a little golf, and a whole lotta fun. Lets just hope my love affair with Mr. Sun lasts longer than this weekend, I've officially broken up with Mr. Snow.

Lets keep our fingers crossed Mr. Sun stays around awhile.

Welcome Raleigh!

2011-05-02T15:24:00.000-07:00

Ok, this is a few days late...but better late than never! I completely blame myself for not being able to figure out how to get text photos off of my phone. I usually call Coffey for help with these types of things but she has been kinda busy...taking care of this precious little bundle!

Welcome to the world Raleigh John Rinabarger! I couldn't be more excited to meet this baby boy. I am madly in love with him already. I know Coffey and Steve are going to be excellent parents, and cannot wait to see this boy grow into a little person (hopefully) as full of fun and love as his parents are. Congrats you guys! Sending good sleep vibes from Bend! xoxo.

Hippity Hop

2011-04-26T09:05:00.000-07:00

Some pics from our Easter Weekend...
Earth Day Clean Up on Friday...

It's amazing what you can find while picking up trash in the neighborhood. Her new favorite accessory.

Easter Eggs...

All ready for the big hunt

We've been on a sugar high since Saturday morning.

Dining Room Update

2011-04-21T08:38:00.000-07:00

I have to admit, I'm pretty proud of myself (and my very talented husband and Mommy). I couldn't be more pleased with our little dining room update! Our house isn't very big, but we always seem to have big groups of people over for dinner (okay, mostly drinks but we also eat dinner). I've been thinking about how to create a space where we could fit lots of people around a dining table, but not take up too much open space in the kitchen as well as not block the path to the back door...it took a long time creating this space in my head, but it was SO worth it!
Galen built the bench against the wall. It's great cause it created more much needed storage for me! Then my mom made the bench cushions and we created the tufted backboard. We used white vinyl for the backboard, buttons, and bench cushions! It is fantastic, any mess the kids make (and there are MANY) I just wipe the vinyl off with a wet cloth, genius! I'd love to take credit for this idea, but I just can't. Thank you Candice Olson...my decorating icon!
I ate many a meal off of this amazing table in my parent's house growing up. We used to call it the pirate table, I guess it was once on a ship. I have always loved it, and am so happy I can finally use it in my house! The chairs are white plastic, again, so easy to clean! I'm still on the look out for two end chairs, I'm thinking of something mid-century looking, natural wood or white. If anyone has any ideas, I'm all ears.
Next, I found the two round lampshades at TJ max for $14 each, then got two pendent kits and had our electrician friend come and take the hideous rental looking chandelier out and hang these over the table. SO much better!
Lastly, mom took over again and made me these fabulous curtain panels out of fabric I found at Calico Corner on huge discount. She also made panels for our living room windows out of the same fabric (living room project is up next...good by old couch)!
I'm so happy with how it all turned out. I smile every time I walk into the living room and see our hard work! I'm so excited to host Christmas Dinner. Next up, I'm attempting to make some pillows for the banquette and the living room couches...with a little help from my Mom of course!

Party On Miles

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

We had Miles' birthday bash this past weekend. We were planning on having just small low-key family affair...but, anyone who know's how we roll, know's that's just not possible! We celebrated the first TWO years of MyMy's life with some of our closest family and friends... Babbie and Papa, Nonie and Grumpa, KyKy, Ole, JJ, Jakey,& Carson, Reid, Maria & Sadie, Sarah, Joe & Mads, Jackie, Smelly, Sammy & Wesley, and Uncle Ben and Nicole...exactly how it should be!

Miles got the present thing down pretty fast! Every time a new guest walked in, he would snatch the gift out of their hands and open it on the spot! And he got a TON, and all of it was either Toy Story or Thomas...we know our little man so much! Thanks to everyone for helping us celebrate!!

Blowing out his candles (with a little help from cousin JJ)

Me and my Big Boy!

A kiss for Nonie

After all that fun...One TIRED Boy!

We were lucky enough to have Nonie and Grampa come down and stay with us!! The kids were SPOILED as usual :)

TWO

2011-04-13T15:47:00.000-07:00

TWO. My oh my…how the years have flown by. I cannot believe you are TWO years old…and I have to admit I’m a little scared. We’ve seen glimpses of those “terribles” for a couple weeks now...and I’m beginning to think you’re a lot more like your Sissy than we ever expected. But, although I think Daddy and I are in for a crazy road ahead with you…it’s pretty awesome too…cause if you’ve got that same spunk your older sister does, I think you’ll do just fine in life. Sissy’s paved that road pretty well for you. Sigh.

So I was reading my birthday post for you last year, and I realized through my tears that you’re pretty much the same BUSY little person you were then...with a few minor exceptions...

Although you are still quite the manly man, I have to admit you do like your feminine accessories quite a bit. Sissy and I love to paint your nails, but princess heels are your favorite. So much so in fact that every time we go to Sadie’s house you run to her room searching for her shoosh (shoes), and when you find them, you promptly put them on and parade around the house in high heels, while carrying the rest of them with you like a briefcase. I’m not too sure what Dad thinks about this, but every time you do this I secretly hope you become the next Christian Louboutin.

Speaking of feminine, I think the female might be one of your favorite things. You love the ladies, and are quite the lady-killer. You bat those long lashes at every girl you see, followed by a sweet “hello” in your very raspy voice. It drives the chicks WILD.

You’re the P.I.M.P of daycare. Every time I pick you up there’s little girls all over you. Jen (your daycare teacher) told me the other day that your little girlfriend Kelsey even prays for you at night. Good on ya Miles, got her thinking about you right before bedtime.

You love going to daycare (you go 3 mornings a week). I’m so happy you never had separation anxiety. You love playing with other kids and (for the most part) get along with everyone all the time. On the days you don’t go to daycare, you ask me to go to “Jen’s House” about a hundred times a day (thanks a lot kid).

You love playing dress-up. You’ve got a Batman and a Superman costume with capes (from your sweet Nonie) and you insist on wearing them just about everyday. I’ve resorted to dressing you in those and then putting regular clothes over them, so your cape sticks out the bottom of your shirts. It's pretty funny. Between you in your capes and your sister in her "outfits" we get quite a few looks when we're out and about.

You are SUPER self sufficient. I hardly ever have to entertain you…you’re always thinking of things to do on your own (just like sissy) You love being outside (I’m so grateful for our big fenced in backyard!!)

You love music and dancing (again, just like your sister). You know the words to many a song, especially Soul Sister by Train. You LOVE that song. Every Monday when we take Sissy to ballet/tap class you are so jealous she gets to go to class. Most times you try to sneak in while I’m not looking.

You LOVE movies. Toy Story is your absolute favorite. The first thing you say to me in the morning when I come to get you out of your crib is “hi Mama” followed by “Toy Tody” (Toy Story). I try to keep it to a minimum of once a day…but sometimes you get lucky and watch it twice.

Your favorite word is WHY. You say it after anything I tell you. I say “let’s change your diaper” you say “why?” I say, “It’s time for bed” you say “why?” I say “it’s time for dinner” you say “why?” why why why why why. I don’t remember the “why’s” at this age with Ava. Maybe you learned that from her too. Your other favorite word is “Noway” I put no and way together cause that’s how you say it, all in one sound. You say “noway” every time we do something you don’t want to do, or when your sister makes you mad.

You respond to many names. MyMys, Brother, Bubbas, Mr. Miles, Mighty Mides, and of course Miles, or Miles Duncan if I catch you doing something bad.

You’re very polite. After anything I do for you, weather it’s get you crayons or change your diaper, you say: “dank-you Mama” it’s precious. Gets me every time!

You love to talk. Talk talk talk talk talk. You’ve always been a vocal kid, and could say words at a very early age, but in the past few months, you've blossomed into full conversation mode. When we’re driving in the car, I swear between you and Ava, I hardly get a word in. I love listening to you guys talk to each other, as long as you aren’t fighting with each other.

Your favorite toy is Thomas. You carry a train around with you EVERYWHERE you go, and sleep with it at night, along with your trusted BeeBee (your blue and brown blanket) of course. Your second favorite toy is your train table; you’ve spent hours standing at that thing.

Your favorite book is Goodnight Moon. You call it Moon, or Mouse, cause you love finding the mouse in every picture when I read it to you before you go to bed.

Your favorite food is Mac & Cheese. On the weeks I can’t get you to eat anything, I put Mac & Cheese on your plate and it’s devoured in seconds. Your least favorite food is peas (I feel you on that one buddy).

You love testing your Mom. You look right at me and do something naughty. And when I catch you, you pretend like you were doing nothing at all. When you get in trouble for something you put on your dough eyes, look down at the ground, and then back up at me. I think you learned that from Boots in Shrek, it’s so cute you pretty much get away with whatever you want, much to your sister’s dismay.

You love your dogs. I think Cali might actually be your favorite (weird I know). She’s taken to sleeping in your room at night, and actually coming out of our closet and going outside when you’re out there.

You also LOVE your Daddy. I think he might be your favorite person in the world. You wait for the sound of the garage door opening and yell “Daddy’s Ommm!” every night. I think seeing you and your sister at the door every night might just be the best part of his day. Then you both beg him to be a “monta” (that’s monster to people who aren’t in the know) and he proceeds to crawl around on the floor for half an hour growling while you both squeal and run away from him.

You are always down for a snuggle. If I’m sitting on the couch, you come running to me saying "nuggle!" then crawl up in my lap and lean your head against my chest, and you say “lub you Mama” my favorite part of the day.

Thank you little buddy. Thank you so much for filling me up each and every day. You are the most loveable, sweetest, kissable, cutest little kid (with a small dose of naughty) I’ve ever known. You are wonderful. Your mom and dad are so proud of you, and so amazed with you every single day. Happy Birthday My Mys. HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

M.I.A.

2011-04-11T11:05:00.000-07:00

Well, hello there. It's been awhile, I know. It's not that we haven't been living a fun, exciting life around the Blyth household...just busy...between working and the kids I don't have much free time anymore...and the time I do get to myself I'd rather be sitting on my butt watching reruns of the Kardashians than using my brain to blog. But, I forced myself to sit down tonight and sort through the past couple of weeks, and a great couple of weeks we've had...
Semi-naked-wrapping-paper-roll-horse-races in the living room (notice the new banquette in the background...EEEEEK! post on that later)

65+degree weather equals lots of swing time in the backyard,

and teeter-toter time at the park.

A 70 degree day for my birthday party! Great for sitting in the sun...and getting a nice little burn before my party pics!

A great night celebrating the big 3-1 with all my favorite girlies,

And my favorite boys, especially this one.

You know it's a great party when...
1. the weather is nice enough to hang on the deck
2. the keg is kicked by 10pm.
3. after the keg is kicked you get really creative with the tequila and Malibu rum drinks (thanks alot Maria).
4. people start dancing on the counter tops
5. your kids sleep through the entire thing!
6. you start to wonder what happened to your husband around 11:00...and find him here...

7. in the morning, you wake up to grab your kid out of his crib and trip over 4 bodies on your way.
8. you cannot find your counter top due to all the debris
9. for some reason, your brain doesn't feel like it's been kicked in by a 700 pound elephant,
10. so you crack the champagne and continue on as usual...and do it all over again that night too. Happy Birthday to ME.

And, the day after that...a little golf at "our club" with the parents. Beautiful. Imagine how happy my husband was that he was getting to play golf on MY BIRTHDAY!

I came from pretty good genes.

Seriously pondering what club to use. And the only pic I got of Galen and I!

And, there you have it, our past days in a nutshell. I'll try not to be away so long next time...but I'm not making any promises!!

She's Done It Again

2011-03-24T10:16:00.000-07:00

So yesterday, we're in the coffee shop, and Ava points to the African American Man (how about that PC action?) and says: "Hey, you're Obama, the Prisoner of the United States of America!"

This is the second time she's mistaken someone for our great leader...but the first she's called him a prisoner.

On another note...here's her latest masterpiece. A portrait of me. I'm in my high heels going to a bar at night to play with all of my friends.

So I posted this pic on Facebook last night, and it was SO funny to hear some of the comments from other mommies out there. Here are my favorites:

From my friend Nikki: Is that like when I went on the field trip to the grocery store with Will and the teacher asked what do your patents buy at the store? I had the only child that raised his hand and said mommy buys a lot of beer and wine!

From my friend Trisha: That's really cute. Emma did a report at school about me and said my hobbies were "yoga and going to Vegas".

Kids say the darndest things eh? Ava's really good at embarrassing me in the grocery store, especially when we walk down the tampon isle and she yells, "MOM, there's your kind of string cheese!" or when we walk past the beer isle and she yells: "MOM, don't forget the BEER" and then proceeds to point out Mommy's favorite beer and Daddy's favorite beer to anyone who's looking. Nice. Hey at least we're not still drinking Busch Light, right?

JUMP!

2011-03-09T17:43:00.001-08:00

JUMP da da da da da...for my love...JUMP IN da da da da da...Feel the touch...JUMP!

A pre-ballet class performance. This was my dance costume...many a year ago...before my parents pulled me out of dance class because they realized I. CAN. NOT. DANCE.
and yes, she wore this to ballet class.

We're Back

2011-03-07T19:18:00.000-08:00

No, unfortunately we did not just get back from a tropical vacation, that would be a better excuse for ignoring my blog for the past couple of weeks...nope, what I mean by "we're back" is just that...we're back. Back from THE DEAD. All four of us got terribly sick with the stomach flu a couple weekends ago...and though the kids bounced back relatively quickly, we adults were still feeling the effects up until yesterday. Ugg, I don't want to think about it anymore. Gross. Gross. Gross.

So, we haven't been too exciting...but, a mama's work is never done...so while we were sick, there were many a tea party

games of hide and seek

and skating performances in the garage

I hope the past two weeks have been more of a vacation than mine have fellow bloggers! This is one mama who's happy to be back!

XS or XL?

2011-02-23T13:42:00.000-08:00

You be the judge.

Miles 22 months and his cousin Carson 14 months.

I wonder who would win in a wrestling match? Oh that's just mean. I would never let you wrestle this guy Miles, I think you'd be crushed in half second flat.

Staycation

2011-02-22T08:19:00.001-08:00

What a great Presidents Day Weekend. I was pleasantly surprised by Galen on Friday morning when he said I didn't have to work, and he was taking the day off as well to ski with his wife! We took the kids to school, and were off to Bachelor for a blue bird freshy pow-pow kind of day...Amazing...but my legs are still sore! On the way home, Galen decided we should close the office on Monday as well, being a holiday and all...so we dubbed our long weekend our "Staycation."

We celebrated Jakey's 4th birthday on Friday night at the Vigeland house. Happy Birthday Big Boy. We love you!

Then on Saturday we played around the house, and watched the snow start to fall...and fall...and fall...and that afternoon headed out to Winterfest to watch the Rail Jam competition in the snow. It was a blast (thanks to our flasks to keep us warm. Don't worry, the kids kept very warm dancing to the band and running around like crazy people).

Sunday and Monday were quiet days...perfect for sledding, and the only other pictures I took all weekend! We found our own private family sled hill right in our neighborhood, and tore it up, Blyth style.

WEEEEEEEEEEE!

Suck it up Miles, just a little white wash! Poor little buddy.

It's Funny...

2011-02-15T14:45:00.001-08:00

How one day we're doing this...

And the VERY NEXT day, we're doing this...

Crazy eh?
We woke up to about 6 inches of un-predicted snow this morning. Great for the mountain, great for the kids, great for the snowman.
Not so great for our fence.

I guess we know what Galen will be doing this weekend!

Tap Star

2011-02-08T15:03:00.000-08:00

So Ava's in tap class now and wow. What a natural. She must have her Mama's incredible dance skills.

After class I asked her to show me what she learned. I didn't see any of these moves being taught in class though.

Maybe she's just a non-conformist.

The Birds and The Bees

2011-02-02T15:49:00.000-08:00

I noticed Ava was thinking real hard about something, trying to figure something out in her head, looking very perplexed...

Me: What's up Aves

Ava: Mommy, so when Miles and I were borned (born), we just popped out of your tummy? Like BAM, POW (imagine her doing exaggerated hand motions from her stomach here) BAM! Your tummy just broke open and we popped out?? Like BOOOOOM!!

Me: Well, you see...well...no baby, you came out of my vagina.

Ava: With your PEE????? You PEEEEEED me out?

Me: No babe, there's two holes down here, a pee pee hole and, a baby hole...

Ava: Oh, okay.
All relieved and happy with that explanation...she walks over to her Dad and says:
Daddy, guess what? I popped out of Mommy's VAGINA!!!
Aren't kids suposed to ask questions like these when they're like 7 not 4?

Can someone tell me why I can tell my daughter the truth about something like that but can't tell her that she's eating chicken or cow for dinner?

On another note...I had big plans for a post about our weekend of firsts, but, the video I had of Ava riding her bike WITHOUT TRAINING WHEELS was deleted on accident. Yes folks, NO training wheels. She's a big kid now, and SO excited about it. And, the other big news...Miles went pee pee IN the potty this weekend! He's actually done it three times now, and went POO in the potty this morning! Yup, a big week at the Blyth household. Fingers crossed the potty training continues at this rate...can you say NO MORE DIAPERS? I can't wait.

59 & Sunny? I'll Take It.

2011-01-30T18:54:00.000-08:00

Well, winter has gone bye bye for the moment in Bend. We spent most of the weekend enjoying the weather. While Ava was at ski school on Saturday, the rest of us did a little cross country. What a great way to spend the morning (except for the part when I fell flat on my ass and got a huge bruise on each butt-cheek...let's just say it really hurts to sit down).

Today we went for a family run on the river (Ava on bike, Miles in stroller)...I know it's just a teaser...but I think I'm longing for Spring.
It was also a weekend of firsts in the Blyth household!! That post to come...

The Potty

2011-01-23T07:47:00.000-08:00

So Miles has taken up a real interest in the potty lately. So we put him in some big boy undies...and why not set the potty out in the middle of the living room floor?

He tried...and tried...and tried...

And admired his new undies...

And...tried some more...

Then walked 3 inches away from the potty...and went pee and poop on the living room floor.
Bad aim? Maybe...but we'll work on those 3 inches. Keep trying Buddy. Keep trying.

Happy Birthday OLD Lady!

2011-01-19T14:18:00.001-08:00

Happy Birthday Sister! Love you!

Look Of The Week: The Past Couple Of Weeks

2011-01-11T07:56:00.000-08:00

My mom's been pretty bad about getting new pics of me in my super cute creations lately. I actually had to ask her to take these pictures of me in my very favorite outfits from the past couple of weeks!

I call this one "School Girl Chic" my teachers LOVED this one.

This is my "Rock Star" outfit. I wear this when I go help Mommy at work. A tutu and pearls always make the workday seem a little brighter. Notice my rockin air guitar in this pic.

Yeeeehaw!!

2011-01-05T20:43:00.001-08:00

Super Hero

2011-01-03T17:06:00.000-08:00

I really love my batman costume. The cape goes great with these black rain boots.
But I didn't have any boots that matched my Superman Cape. How do these look?

And every Super Hero needs goggles to protect his eyes when he's flying through the sky.

Stage Mom

2010-12-29T14:57:00.000-08:00

To the naked eye this is just a video of Ava singing Christmas songs...but if you look closely, you'll see her CaaaaaRAZY mother bobbing her head and using jazz hand finger points in order to keep Ava on beat. Just like an episode of Toddler's In Tiaras. Awesome. The sad thing is...I didn't even realize I was doing it! Ava, I apologize in advance for embarrassing you at all future dance recitals, soccer games, gymnastic meets, school assemblies....etc, etc. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry.

And A Partridge In A Pear Tree!

2010-12-26T18:50:00.001-08:00

TIRED. I'm really tired. It's been such a fun holiday. I don't know who had more fun, the adults or the kids...what a great Christmas! We had the Blyth clan in town again this Christmas. Nonie, Grumpa, Jason and Jessie all came to stay at our house (Colin and Kelley unfortunately couldn't make it). We had a blast drinking, eating, playing with the kids, and getting really spoiled!

Christmas Eve, we had our family friends the Parkers over for crab. The kids decorated gingerbread men...

Check out Miles' shirt. Such a mess.
Sammy liked the candy

Nonie and Miles

Just before dinner...SANTA (Smelly Claus) arrived!! Ava was SO excited!!

Miles...not so excited!

CHEERS!

Christmas morning came early at our house. 6AM to be exact. Ava ran into our room and shook me awake saying: "Mommy!!! SANTA came! He brought me a DOLL HOUSE!!"

This one opened presents very carefully.

The aftermath

That night, we all headed to my parent's house for dinner. Ava with her best friend JJ.

Batman and Buzz Lightyear

The greatest Grannies in the world!

Jess and Jas. Future Bendites!

Cheese!

The Grout Girls

This Christmas was one of my very favorite yet. Sorry this post is so short on words...my brain is functioning at a lower level than usual today. I need some SLEEP. Good night!

Powder Turns

2010-12-20T14:57:00.000-08:00

She's just awesome.

Gingerbread Houses

2010-12-19T11:07:00.000-08:00

We had the cousins over this week for some gingerbread house building. We went with the ghetto-gram-cracker-style-house this year. What a great excuse to play with your food and get a sugar high.

Ava with her masterpiece
JJ with hers.
I didn't get a picture of Jakey with his house, he was too busy keeping Miles entertained with boy stuff, but his was beautiful too!

PS...FYI for my busy mommy friends. I just picked up a sugar cookie decorating kit at Trader Joes for 99cents! Comes with 4 cookie cutters, dough mix, frosting & sprinkles...GREAT deal, and kept the kids entertained for at least a half hour!

Christmas Abstract {By Ava}

2010-12-16T18:58:00.000-08:00

We call this "Tree"

And this is "Wreath"
Duh.

Okay Mom, I'm Ready to Go...

2010-12-10T16:54:00.000-08:00

Miles dressed himself this morning. Sissy's undies and dad's shoes over PJ's. A budding fashionisto??

Weekend Warriors

2010-12-08T08:33:00.000-08:00

Last weekend we were Busy Busy Busy!! Saturday marked the first weekend of Mt. Bachelor Ski School for Ava (3 Saturdays, 6 hours a day), then my mom took the girls (Ava, me, Kylie and JJ) to the Nutcracker here in Bend and out to dinner at Red Robin (thanks Mom!) then we headed over to Kylie and Ole's house to watch the rest of the Apple Cup (ahhhh, so frustrating!) with the guys and an impromptu slumber party...

My little ski bunny with her buddy Sadie ready to hit the slopes. They tore it up, video to come!!

Listening intently to the teacher.

All the kiddos (minus Carson) at Kylie's house...ready for their first slumber party!!
Down for the count...under the piano!

Jakey snoozin

On Sunday, we ventured out to get our tree!!

Cali and Monty in Dog Heaven.

Ava was a bit tired (understandably) that day...I think this is the only time she smiled the entire day.

The snow is DEEP!

A great way to end our day...with another fit from my beautiful daughter!

Now, I am sad to say, we have been home all week with the kids who are suffering from a bout of pink eye. I guess too much partying will do that to ya!

Hate To Brag But...

2010-12-01T19:23:00.000-08:00

My kid (my FOUR YEAR OLD) can read! Yup...Ava has set a goal for herself these past couple of weeks. She wants to learn to read like the kindergarten kids at her school. So...we made her some flash cards...and viola! My 4 year old is reading! I've always said she has a brain like her dad...her retention is amazing...nothing like me I'm afraid! I was that kid in second grade going to the "special class" to brush up on my reading skills. I don't think we'll have that problem with this kid. So, g'on brush yo shoulders off Ava. You deserve it.

Thanksgiving, 2 New Christmas Ornaments, and Other Things

2010-11-30T16:26:00.000-08:00

Whoa, what a week. I’m sorry Blog World, that I’ve been so MIA. The Bend Blyths have kept a pretty low profile the past week…Mom has been, well, out of touch with reality due to some serious pain meds after a little surgery last Tuesday. Don’t worry, all is well with me, this was a planned, uh, “Christmas present” for me, that’s all I’m going to say about that...I’ll leave the rest up to your wonderful imaginations.
I would like to first and foremost say THANK YOU to my wonderful doting husband who was a tremendous help last week. I don’t know what I would do without him. He is amazing (and makes some amazing mashed potatoes)!
Anyway, moving on…I’m finally off my crazy-fall-asleep-in-mid-sentence-pain-meds, and can actually think a rational (as rational as I get anyway) thought. So, here I am, back in the saddle again, 89.3% rational. Hello blog world. Did you miss me?
Thanksgiving was quiet for us. We went to my Mom and Dad’s for one of the best Thanksgiving meals to date. Turkey was moist, stuffing was gooey, potatoes (Galen’s contribution) were garlicky heaven…yum yum yum. It was great being with just the 6 of us, but I think I would’ve missed having the rest of our family there, I just can’t remember. Okay, I’ll stop my pointless ramblings and show you some pics from the past week…

Kung-Fu Princess

A walk in the woods...

Future Heff.

He didn't take his eyes off the Thanksgiving Day Parade

Thanksgiving at Babbie and Papa's

Puzzle with Babbie

Yum!
Playing Dradle on our kitchen floor. This one's for you Jess.

Until next time friends, until next time.

The Santa Effect

2010-11-22T15:11:00.001-08:00

There are so many reasons why this is the most wonderful time of the year.
Here are my top 10 reasons, in no particular order...
1. snow
2. cozying up by the fire
3. hot chocolate
4. Thanksgiving
5. Christmas
6. family
7. friends
8. presents
9. Jubelale
*and last but not least*
10. The Santa Effect

I've recently learned about the Santa Effect and how well it works on a preschool aged child. Don't know what this phenomenon is??? Make yourself comfortable and let me break it down for you...
The "Santa Effect" is quite possibly the BEST threat we parents have ever invented.
By threat, I mean, well just that... I bribe Ava into being a good little girl by threatening her with Santa. It's amazing really. All I have to do is say: "I'm going to call Santa..." and she freezes...I mean stops whatever naughty thing she is doing immediately...and says: "OH NO MOMMY!! PLEAAASE DONT CALL SANTA!! I'LL BE GOOD I'LL BE GOOOOOOOOD!!!" Sometimes she even sheds a tear. Simply incredible (not that I like making my child cry or anything...but I do like getting her attention)! You'd think she'd get used to my threatening to call Santa 10 times a day, but she doesn't...it works, EVERY TIME. Maybe it's because I have Santa's number on speed dial?

Yup, this is scary stuff for a 4 year old. The thought of no presents on Christmas morning is unbearable for her. (insert wicked witch laugh here).

Although I do love the Santa Effect and have used it with reckless abandon these past few weeks, there is a down side I have to warn you about...the ENDLESS amount of questions about Santa Claus that come shooting at you ALL. DAY. LONG.
"How can Santa see me?"
"When can I talk to Santa on the phone?"
"How do Santa's reindeer fly?"
"Why doesn't Santa have a dog?"
"Is Santa nocturnal?"
"Why are all the toys in the store if Santa makes them all?"
"How is Santa going to know what I want?"
"Does Santa watch the weather man?"
"Why is Santa fat? That's really unhealthy Mom."
"Does Santa eat at McDonalds?"
"Does Santa like beer as much as Daddy?"
The list goes on and on...but the payoff for answering a few questions is oh so worth it...a child who listens! Hallelujah!
I'm not sure what I'm going to do when Christmas is over...ever heard of the "Easter Bunny Effect"?

She's Crafty

2010-11-17T19:20:00.001-08:00

Really, really, reeeeaaaaallllllyyyyy crafty.
I'm up to my eyeballs in Thanksgiving crafts, and we've still got a week left till the big day!
Here are just some of our crafts from this week...
Pine cone Turkeys, Hand Print Turkey, Bean Art Turkey...

Ava cut out these hats for her and Miles...

Getting down with some cut & paste.

Miles' first masterpiece.

Ava's zillionth masterpiece.

I am beginning to get anxiety over Christmas crafts. I don't know how many different Santa's I can come up with.

A Sunday Ritual

2010-11-16T15:53:00.000-08:00

Seahawks and Popcorn...who could ask for anything more?

She's Back In Full Effect: Ava's Look of the Week

2010-11-12T10:47:00.001-08:00

Ah yes, it's that time of year again. The weather is colder, and Ava can no longer get away with wearing just a swim suit or a dress around town anymore. It's time to bundle up...and this girl LOVES to layer. Here are some pics from the last few, uh, "creative" days. Gotta love winter time!

A Cowboy and A Hula Dancer

2010-11-08T13:44:00.000-08:00

Some giggles for your Monday.

Halloween!

2010-11-05T11:15:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile since my last post, and almost a week since Halloween. I apologize. I've been working 2 mornings a week at the office to help Galen out and for some reason, can't find anymore time in my days!! But, enough complaining...lets talk about Halloween, shall we?

On Friday, Coffey made her yearly Fall trip to Bend. We took some pics, went out to eat, shopped, and just lazed around and relaxed all weekend. I don't think I've mentioned, but my dearest friend is PREGNANT and due in April!! I am SO excited and can't wait to meet that little Coffey Bean.

On Sunday, we celebrated Halloween with the Vigeland clan. The kids had a blast trick or treating, and ran full speed from house to house, they were a riot.

Here is my little kitty cat and moo cow. Miles' costume is a female cow, it came with tights. He grabbed it in the store and wouldn't let it go. Yup, that's my BOY!

Trick Or Treat!!!

Jake and Ava on a candy high.

Coffey trying to console a VERY GRUMPY Miles.

Snuggling by the fire.

For more pics, check out Coffey's blog...she's much better at taking pics than I am!!

Witchcrafty, a Kitty Pumpkin, and SNOW??

2010-10-28T08:30:00.000-07:00

My warm summer weather blew out with the leafs last week, leaving us with cold rainy days...though I do like the change in seasons, it's hard to keep busy with two kids inside all day long! The cure for a boring rainy day? For Ava (and sometimes Miles) it's gettin crafty. Ava LOVES art projects, I hear "can we do a project?" about 100 times a day... So, we embarked on a pretty big one (for a 4 year old anyway)!
Here's my little Martha Stewart making her first paper mache project, a Halloween witch head.

After drying overnight, a few coats of paint...

TA-DA! The finished project. She cut (she cuts better than me I should ad. Me with a sharp object=trouble) and glued all the yarn for the hair, cut out the shapes for the hat (then I taped it together), glued the eyes, wart, and mouth on all by herself!

Isn't it just lovely?

Remember that HUGE pumpkin we got at the pumpkin patch? In our house, the kids get the dirty job.

Ava is going to be a cat for Halloween, so naturally, she insisted on a kitty pumpkin. This is all Galen...remember what I said about me and sharp objects? It's especially bad when I try to stick a sharp object into a hard object like a pumpkin. Dangerous.

And, on Monday morning...we woke up to white stuff on the ground. So it's not the October snow storm of last year, but it's officially winter around here. Peace out Fall. It was nice of you to stay around for a week.

Down on the Farm

2010-10-24T13:14:00.001-07:00

We hit up the pumpkin patch today and got lucky...VERY lucky. It poured rain all last night and into this morning, poured even harder on our way out to Terrebone, poured even harder as we tured into D&D Ranch, and amazingly...the rain STOPPED when Galen turned off the car. This trip to the pumpkin patch was meant to be...so, being we were the only people at the pumpkin patch today due to "the rain" we lived-it-up.

My little Central Oregon farmer

Meet our new family member. I've got a real thing for baby cows. Too bad I like steak so much.

Picking out the perfect pumpkin...

Mooooooooo. Miles meeting his very favorite animal face to face. Moo. MOOOOOO!

After a half hour...more MOOOOO!

Breakfast of champions, Kettle Corn.

Apparently Galen knows how to lasso a bull. I learn something new every day.

And...after a couple hours of petting wet beasts, splashing in puddles, rolling in the mud, and romping through fields of pumpkins...we headed to the car...and it began to rain. I'd say we got pretty lucky.

Punkins Painting Pumpkins

2010-10-19T07:58:00.000-07:00

Seattle Baby Tour 2010 (and some other visits too).

2010-10-12T14:39:00.001-07:00

The kids and I made another whirlwind trip up to Seattle this past weekend in order to meet some new additions to the family.

First up...beautiful little Avery Birds! We went over to Steve and Kimmy's house to watch the Coug game (but couldn't get it on TV) with them and the Deroun family. It was so fun to see everyone, and especially meet Baby Avery. She couldn't have been any sweeter! I think the kids liked her too, which is a very good thing considering they're stuck together for life!

Next baby stop...Brayden!! Our best friends Lolo and Dickie make some BEAUTIFUL children...which is really surprising since they are such an ugly couple. Could this kid get any cuter??

And last but not least...baby Johnny. Jess and Brian are the most relaxed new parents I have ever seen. Johnny was such a trooper and hung out with us for an entire night without making a peep. It's nuts how much this kid looks like his dad. He's absolutely precious. Yes Brian, I called you precious.

Another reason for going to Seattle was for the second annual birthday party for Dickie and Dan. We started off at the Woodinville Wineries (did you know they have an entire strip mall dedicated to wineries???) and then went out to dinner, and ended the night at 4am at the Vivaldi household. Yes, I said 4 AM! Ouch.

One of the birthday boys...giving the LONGEST speech in history. Too bad I didn't get this on video...it would've made some great YouTube!

The crew...VERY late night.

On our way out of town, we had to stop by Ms. Brown's house for a visit. I'm so happy to have such a wonderful "Grandma" in my life. I only wish we lived much, much closer!!

Whoa...what a weekend! Busy Busy Busy, and happy to be back home with Dad...but Seattle, I miss you already!

A Real Man...

2010-10-02T12:12:00.000-07:00

Ain't afraid to wear PINK!

This is how Miles likes to roll these days. Making his Daddy very proud, very proud.

Party Time

2010-09-30T08:45:00.001-07:00

Some pics from Ava's "Little Mermaid" Birthday Bash. Happy 4th Birthday Darlin!

The cake that I tried to make look like an ocean. So it's not a JOAT cake, but I tried!!

A little game of Pin The Tail On The Mermaid!

Party People!

What's a 4 year old birthday party without beating the shiznigity out of Hello Kitty?? (Yes, I realize Hello Kitty has nothing to do with the mermaid theme, but it was the cheapest pinata at Food 4 Less)!

Sorry Kitty.

Birthday Cake!!

PRESENTS!!

After the party we went out for a Mexican Birthday Dinner with Nonie and Grumpa. ¡Feliz cumpleaños!

Silly Girl

2010-09-28T16:36:00.000-07:00

Real Conversation Today:

Ava: "Mom, who is that on TV, Lady Gaga?"
Me: "No babe, that's Ellen."
Ava: "She's wearing pants."
Me: "Yup."
Ava: "Why doesn't she ever wear a dress? This lady is ALWAYS in PANTS. I don't want to watch this, we need to tell her to wear a dress. Change it to Lady Gaga."
Me: "Why don't you like pants?"
Ava: "Boys wear pants."
Me: "I wear pants."
Ava: "She has short hair and is wearing pants mom."
Me: "I think she's pretty."
Ava: "Can you change it to my shows now?"

Do you think she's the only 4 year old to notice what Ellen is wearing on a daily basis?
PS...call me crazy but is there a "Lady Gaga" show I don't know about?
PSS...I love you Ellen.

4 Years Ago Today...

2010-09-24T15:24:00.000-07:00

...My little princess was born. It's crazy to think about. CAAARAZY. Last night we were talking about her birthday and what it means, and she asked me to tell her the story of when she was born. When I was done, I couldn't believe how much I remembered about that day, how easily it was to remember the little details about the days before she came into our lives, the day she was born, and the weeks after...it's like it all happened just a year ago, not FOUR years! Yikes, they really do grow up fast...wait, double yikes, I'm really starting to sound like my mother! Crap, how old am I? What's my life coming to???(no offense Mom).

Ava, I don't think you'll ever have any idea how much you are loved. You are hands down the brightest, funniest, most outgoing, craziest, friendliest, cheerful, headstrong, smartest, most wonderful 4 year old I know. You truly are a blessing to everyone you've ever come into contact with. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. Thank you for making me a better person.

In honor of your big birthday (and in a sad attempt to stop time) I wanted to list a few of your favorite things. Some things have changed since last year!

In Her Own Words: Ava's List of Favorites...(my comments are in the colons)!
Favorite Color: Pink! Pink! Pink!
Favorite Thing To Wear: Dresses! (she actually loves being in just her undies, but if she has to wear something, it's a dress for sure).
Favorite Book: Fancy Nancy
Favorite Food: Chicken Nuggets from "Mickey Donald's"
Favorite Song: Circle Of Life and Paparazzi
Favorite Person: You! (yup, she's talking about me!! I knew I'd knock you out of first place one of these days, Galen!)
Favorite Toy: My Little Mermaid, and Snow White
Favorite Saying: "Oh My Gosh"
Favorite Thing To Do: Play outside
Favorite Place To Be: School
Favorite Game: Candyland. Oh, and Hide and Seek!
Favorite Show: Dora
Favorite Movie: Little Mermaid
Favorite Pet: Monty (Cali, I told you last year to stop hiding out in the closet all day and you might have a chance to move up the list, but no, you never listen to me. Damn dog).
Favorite Friend: JJ and Sadie

We love you Ava. Can't wait for your big party tomorrow. HAPPY BIRTHDAY Big Girl!!

This morning before school. 4 Years Old!!

At Red Robin for your birthday lunch this afternoon. You were so excited when they sang you "Happy Birthday" and brought you a sundae. Looks like Daddy wants to steal some of that too!

With best buddies Jadyn and Jakey at your birthday lunch.

Babies Got Back

2010-09-23T10:27:00.001-07:00

A little slice of daily life at our house. There's nothing I love more than a baby butt!

Happy Anniversary {7 Years}

2010-09-21T08:11:00.001-07:00

Happy Anniversary to my darling hubby of SEVEN years!!!
I know, I know, this is a day late (have you noticed I've been a pretty bad blogger lately?) but better late than never.
I cannot believe it's been 7 years, and what a great 7 years it's been! I love you Galen!!!

First Day Of School

2010-09-08T12:08:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it, summer's officially over. Good bye lazy days by the pool, good bye late nights outside, good bye campfires, good bye warm weather (yes, it's raining today)...and good bye Ava (for 3 mornings a week!) Yup, Ava's off to preschool again.
4 hours, 3 mornings per week...that's 12 total hours per week without "The Boss." Can I get a What-What?!!! No offense Ava, we'll miss you, really we will...eventually.

Trying to get the perfect "First Day Of School Shot" this morning. This is her I-Dream-Of-Genie look.

Better, Better...

Perfect! Back To School Shot captured!

A pose with the little bro.

A pose outside of school...I know, I'm "that mom"...

After Ava pushed us out the door and reassured me she was going to be fine, we went home to a very quiet house and...While Sissy's away...Miles Will PLAY!!!
A little dress up to begin his first morning as an only child. YeeeeHaaaaw.

Watching what HE wants to watch (his favorite, Yo Gabba Gaba) in total peace and quiet.

We wrestled

We played in the "Forbidden Room" for hours. Shhhhh. Don't tell Ava! I was sure to clean up the evidence.

After about 3 and a half hours without her, I started to miss our little princess and Miles started asking where Si-Ti (Sissy) was. We were both very excited to pick her up from school, and to my surprise Ava was excited to see us too (not that she didn't have any fun though, she's been asking me when her next school day is ever since we've been home)!
Good Bye Summer, Hello Fall.

GooGoo For GaGa

2010-09-02T15:33:00.000-07:00

A tribute to Ava's favorite artist...

We've been GooGoo for GaGa lately.
Nothing like a garage dance party...

Is it weird that my kid knows the words better than I do?

Stay Classy San Diego...

2010-08-31T09:25:00.000-07:00

We're Baaaaaack! And oh-so tired! Time for a vacation. Wait, weren't we just on vacation? 9 days of fun in the sun, 9 nights of waaaaay too much fun...Oh how I missed you San Diego, but oh how times have changed since we lived there so many years ago...newly married, no kids, never got hang-overs, not a care in the world...those were the days...but I digress, lets get back to the here and now...San Diego 2010...a vacation to celebrate my dear hubby's 30th birthday with the entire Blyth clan!!

Ava was SO excited to get on that plane. She laughed so hard and so loud during take off, it was hysterical.

Our first stop, Temecula to visit our dear friends Becca and Jake and their 2 beautiful boys Grayson and Jamison

After a weekend with Becca and Jake, it was off to the BEACH! Hello sand, sun and surf!

The Blyth Boys ready to PARTY.

Ava dressed well for a day at the beach.

Galen and Jason turned the BIG 3-0. To celebrate, we rented a party bus to take us up to the Del Mar Horse Races. What a BLAST! Ava and Miles couldn't believe they didn't have to wear seat belts!

Shaunny came down from Denver to celebrate with us. The lovers reunite.

Jason, Benny and Me at the races.

Ava and her Birthday Boys.

We were lucky enough to get a visit from cousin Rose and Terrell, and baby Marley!

Ava's favorite mode of transportation. They went everywhere like this.

Our only family photo from the entire trip.

The crew (minus Colin, Dick and Janet). What a TRIP!

Stay Classy San Diego.

Skate King

2010-08-18T15:03:00.000-07:00

Whatever happened to Skate King? Is it still there? Do we even have a place dedicated only to roller-skating here in Bend?? Maybe I just thought of a great new business venture...whatayouthink Galen?? Ahhh...the elementary school memories. Remember the field trips to Skate King? Remember wanting to learn how to skate backwards and do spins like those pretty girls in the middle of the rink? Remember wanting so badly to get asked to "slow-skate" by that cute boy you had a crush on? I do...I never got asked, maybe because that cute boy I had a crush on noticed I couldn't skate worth a damn, maybe he noticed the HUGE gap between my two front teeth, my frizzy permed locks, the warts on my knees... Wasn't I voted most likely to NOT get asked by a cute boy to slow-skate in elementary school? I should've been. What was slow-skating anyways? Skating around the rink holding hands? But I digress.
Where was I? Ah, yes, Skate King. Just typing the name brings me back, remember the smell? A cross between rotting food smashed in the carpet and sweaty feet? Remember? I was brought back to my Skate King days yesterday when Ava decided she wanted to learn how to skate. We strapped those pink beauties on and away she went....around and around and around and around and around and around and around and around and around and around our garage. We cranked up the music and let her roll....just like Skate King. Galen even left his stinky running shoes and socks out in the garage and that mixed with our trash cans made the smell right on. At this point it looks like she might have my skating ability. I'm sorry Ava. Maybe that cute boy you have a crush on won't notice your skating abilities...or maybe you should just keep on practicing cause you have LOTS of time till I'm going to allow you to have a crush on anyone, except for me of course. Practice makes perfect right? Oh what a feeling. Skate Baby. Skate!

Galen Really Hauled Aspen

2010-08-09T15:07:00.001-07:00

Congratulations to my wonderful Hubby for running his first 1/2 Marathon! He finished the Haulin Aspen Trail 1/2 Marathon 78th out of 356 people! Pretty good for a first try, especially on those hilly trails! Great job Baby! Next up...our FULL in October!

A kiss from his biggest fan.

Soaking in Shevlin Creek after the race.

Summer Nights

2010-08-07T15:04:00.000-07:00

I love summer for so many reasons. It's my favorite time of the year (have I mentioned this a billion times before??) especially the lazy summer nights spent as a family. I love how in the summer you stay up later, wake up earlier, and just want to get out and do more. Pretty much every night we don't have plans we're hanging out in the front or back yard soaking in the last rays of the day...Could life get any better than this?

Ava got a new bike from Babbie and Papa. She's oh so proud of it!

Back Yard Camp Out

2010-08-04T07:45:00.000-07:00

We've been so busy this summer, we haven't had a chance to take the kids camping. Galen and I love to camp, and had big ambitions for taking a few trips this summer and roughing it...well...it hasn't exactly happened yet, and it's already August! Last weekend after a full day of swimming and fun, we decided we'd better get the tent out of the garage and give Ava her first "camping" experience in the backyard. After dinner we put Miles to sleep in his comfy warm crib and Cali (our unadventurous black dog) to sleep in our bedroom inside...and went out back to, er, rough it!
We roasted marshmallows, told ghost stories (pretty much we told the stories of the Three Bears, Hansel & Gretel, and Three Little Pigs and added a ghost to them...whatever), and played with flashlights till about 9:30. Then our little princess went right to sleep in the tent for the rest of the night! I, on the other hand, went inside to my warm bed at about 10:30... What? Given the choice, wouldn't you choose your own bed too??

Carnies For The Day

2010-08-02T08:44:00.000-07:00

Whew. Another busy weekend in the bag. Happy Monday people.
The kids got their first taste of the Deschutes County Fair on Friday and had an absolute blast! We did it all, the petting zoo, hot dogs, cotton candy, carnival rides, pig races, face painting...you name it we did it! Ava had the time of her life, she was so in her element I think she wants to run off and become a carnie. I guess that beats my 3 year old dream of one day becoming a McDonald's employee so I could get an endless supply of Chicken Nuggets...but I digress...

Miles on his first pony ride. He wasn't too sure at first but ended up LOVING it.

Ava's a natural

This poor goat is trying so hard to run away from Miles, who kept pulling it's hair out in chunks!

Our little friend Maddie LOVED the elephant ears!

Watching the roller-coaster...whoooooaaaa!!!

Let the fun begin!!

Ava and Maddie on their favorite ride of the day. I can't believe they weren't scared! I was scared for them!!

Yup that's a 2 year old and a 3 year old...riding without seat belts 10 feet above the ground...what were we thinking?

YAAAAAHOOOOOOOOO!

Ava was SO excited to get her face painted. She sat so still.

Ta-Da!

What a great evening! To top it all off, Ava even won a prize for winning her very first carnival game ever...who does that? Beginners luck I guess!

I checked on Ava a few times that night to be sure she hadn't run off to become a carnie. She didn't...phew.

Life In The Fast Lane...Really, I'm Serious, The Speed Limits in Seattle are A LOT Faster than in Bend

2010-07-27T13:19:00.000-07:00

Hello Blog World! I've missed you so. I'm sorry for my absence, but I have a good excuse, well, I guess I have a lot of excuses really. We've been in Sea-Town for the past week for a whirlwind trip to fun places with great friends...Let's see, where do I begin?? How about welcoming you to the longest post EVER WRITTEN...

First stop on the way to Seattle...DETROIT of course! Me and the kiddos took off last Saturday to the cabin for the night. Here are the kiddos out on the boat with Uncle George.

Second Stop...Sunday we headed up to Seattle, well, Kent to be exact, for a BBQ at the Rinakitty/Rina-Coffey/Rinabarger house with tons of friends from WSU, and about a thousand kids. What a blast!
Future Cougars (sorry Megan, Addie gets wrapped into this group too)!!
Addie, Ava, Hayden, Jake, Miles, Jackson, and Henry

Miss Rauh, Me, Tara, Coffey, Jamie, Stacie

After the BBQ me and the kiddos spent the night in Kent and the next morning drove over to Sammamish to stay the rest of the week with Faline and Duncan. Of course I didn't get any pics of them with the kiddos! Oh well, next time. Thanks so much for all your help with the kids, the dinners, and such great company!!

Sometime during the week, don't ask me when cause it's all blurring together for me, I got out with some girlfriends to the most boring baseball game ever. Seriously Mariners...I think the Bend Elks are better than you. Despite the terrible game, we had a blast. Thanks so much L Spry for the tix and for splitting the hot dog and clam strips with me, you really are my soul mate!
Coffey with her hero.

L Spry, Lauren, and Me

We got in a quick lunch and playtime with Stacie, Sus, Addie and Eden. These girls are the best of friends!

My favorite pic from the weekend! My little Eden looking Oh So "Special"!!

Next up was a fun night with Kelsey, to relive our Eastlake days. She didn't do any old cheers for me like I would've hoped, but we did have a great time catching up. It's so fun to see my friends, especially from when I was younger, interact with the kiddos...she loves them both so much, and the loved their Auntie Kelsey. Once again I failed to get out the camera! Thanks again for coming over to see us Kels, you guys have got to get down to Bend soon!

Galen arrived on Thursday night and met me at Steve (AKA Birdy) and Kimmie Birds' for dinner. Again, I forgot to take any pics, but we had a great time seeing these two, as usual, great dinner Kim, you look so beautiful and cannot wait to see that baby soon! Just a few short weeks to go girl!

On Friday we caught up with Lolo and Tristan and went to the Cougar Mountain Zoo. For anyone in the Seattle area with young kids, I highly recommend it. It's much smaller than Woodland Park, but the animals are much closer and it's not crowded at all. The kids had a blast feeding the deer, and I could've watched the huge tigers play all day long. Even Miles got to see all the animals because we could get so close. Great day!

Friday night was Coffey and My much anticipated second date with our internet lover Brookie Poo. Driving to the ends of the earth (Ballard) from Sammamish was oh so worth it wasn't it girls? Can't wait for our next go-round. You must wear those pants again Loosy...and please post the Guiness Book of World Records pic so the world can see.

Next Up...The nuptuals of my "little brother" Bert and his lovely wife Ally at the Newport Shores Yacht Club. Beautiful Wedding, Georgous Couple, Great Party (once my kids went home with Nonie and Grandpa...thanks again guys!!)
Here's Miles having a blast on the playgroud. Yes, I said playground, at a wedding. This is where we spent most of our time until the kids went home!

Galen and I...at the playground!

Ava, Jadyn, and Jakey were dancing FOOLS! They all wanted to dance with Princess Ally of course!

The middle of the circle...dancing queen!

The afterparty, at Earls in Bellevue.
Galen's trying to move in on Georgie's woman!

And then on my sister!

After a 2 AM bedtime, I woke up the next morning bright and early to get this ready for Lolo's baby shower at Susy's house. It was so great seeing all the girls and meeting a few babies I hadn't had the chance to meet yet. Thanks again Sus and Stace for helping host such a beautiful shower for our Lolo!

Now we're back home and VERY tired...and I'm almost done with this post, which means I have to either
A) clean my house or
B)start on this huge pile of work I need to get done by tomorrow or
C) get dinner ready...
I think I'm ready for another vacation. Till next time Seattle...till next time.

A Few Days With Messy

2010-07-15T16:30:00.000-07:00

Miss Messy Jessie graced us with her presence here in Bend for a couple of days. She had to come into town for a work trip. By "work" I mean one 45 minute appointment, but who's checking? Hopefully her boss doesn't read this.
We did the usual when Jess visits, sit out on the deck with the kids, drink beer like the old days, order in Toomie's Thai, and laugh, A LOT.

Ava and her Auntie Jess. These two are best friends. Probably because they are on the same level.

Just like the old days, minus a few hundred L.B.'s, some bloody toes, and a broken nose. Ava took this pic, budding photographer?!

Playing Princess in our "castle"

Say "CHEESE"!!

Cabin Fever {Not the bad kind}

2010-07-14T12:39:00.001-07:00

We haven't been able to get up to the cabin as much as we'd like this summer. Don't get me wrong, we've had a great summer filled with fabulous house guests and fantastic weather here in Bend, but getting over to Detriot Lake is one of my favorite parts of the summer. Last Sunday, we took a quick trip to the cabin for the night. It was a blast, when it's sunny and warm, this place never disapoints!

Here's Papa and Miles puckering up for a big wet kiss (one of my favorite pics to date)

Ava and her Little Mermaid doll are inseprable these days.

Me and my boys on the deck.

Ole, JJ, and (not so) little Carson

Mom, Kylie, Carson, Melanie (Nana) and Miles..check out his "cheese" smile. Oh, and look at the size difference between Carson and Miles. Let me remind you that Carson is 5 months YOUNGER than my little guy!!!!

Here's to many more lazy summer days in Detroit Lake this summer!!

Mary Mary Quite Contrary...

2010-07-07T15:39:00.000-07:00

Ava has been a HUGE help in the garden this year. She loves planting seeds, picking weeds, and watering the flowers. Look how well our garden is doing, mostly because she keeps reminding me to take care of it! Thanks Avs.

It's been so nice to go out to the garden and pick fresh veggies and herbs.

Here's a view of one of our fence boarders. The flowers are just beginning to bloom. I can't wait till they're out in full force feeding all the humming birds and butterflies!

I had to throw in a pic of just one of my pots, since flowers make me oh so happy.

PS..I was born in Singapore :)

Born in the USA (OK, I wasn't even born here, but I'm still pretty damn proud to be an American)

2010-07-06T19:12:00.000-07:00

Let me first start out by giving a big Happy Birthday Shout Out to the great U S of A. Woot Woot, hope you had a killer birthday, you still hungover? I think I am...

Moving on...In the 5 years since we've moved to Bend, we've never stayed home to celebrate the the 4th of July. This year, we decided to do just that, with some of our very best friends, the Martin family. Even Duncan (Galen's Dad) came down for a visit, and Bend did not disappoint. We had so much fun with these guys, as always, playing with the kids, drinking way too many beers (except Lo of course, she's pregnant and due August 20), the boys went golfing twice (yes, can you believe it, we actually let them go TWICE!), laying out in the sun in the backyard, listening to Dickie ohhh and ahhh over the fireworks, drinking mojitos (YUUUUUUM), and on Sunday, while the boys golfed, we went with my mom and the kids to the 4th of July Pet Parade downtown. What a site to see, I swear, the entire town came out with their pets to walk down the streets, yes, this town is a little nuts about their pets. Ava LOVED showing Monty off in her pretty skirt.

A fantastic holiday to say the least (barfing kids, broken guest room window, and all!) I think we'll try and stay home for the 4th from now on!

Getting some much needed SUN on those white Seattleites...I think Galen is liking his position here...all he needs to do is turn his head to the left...

The only pic I got of all the kids together...catching up on some much needed rest

At my parent's house for dinner on Sunday night

Grumpa and his babies

Ava and Monty ready for the Pet Parade in Downtown Bend.

13.1 Miles, A Tight Bra, A Fat Lip And A Buzz-Cut

2010-06-27T12:52:00.000-07:00

We did it...completed the Pacific Crest Half Marathon that is! This weekend the Rinabargers (also known as the Rina-Coffeys) came for a visit, and a short run in beautiful Sunriver. The views along the course were gorgeous, the weather was incredible, and the course was oh-so FLAT...we couldn't have asked for a better race...except for at around mile 8, when Coffs realized the brand new sports bra she was wearing was cutting off her circulation and she wasn't used to the 3,600 ft altitude difference. OOps, I probably should've warned her about that one, my bad. The sports bra problemo wasn't my fault though, that's all on her.
All in all though, a very good race. We had a blast and I couldn't ask for a better running partner. Looking forward to the San Francisco full with her this October (if she's not preggers by then of course)! Galen was so inspired by us that he's decided to train for the marathon too...wish us luck! We need it.

Pre-Race (about 6am) this was after a late night and some unnecessary carbo loading (beer of course)!

Along the last mile I found Galen, Steve and the kids. I'm going so fast my face is just a blur...or Galen isn't very good at taking pictures, but we can pretend I'm that fast.

Headed to the finish line. I won.

The Rina-Coffeys catching some sun in the back yard.

Miles ready to party. This was taken right before he fell on his face for the 5th time this weekend. This time he got a fat lip, he also had 2 bloody noses this weekend...such a Blyth boy.

Ava with one of her most favorite people in the world (she's been a bit spoiled the past few weeks)

Miles sportin his new do, and his first (of many I'm sure) fat lip. His hair was getting a bit shaggy, so we decided to buzz his hair off this morning. Now he looks even more like his Dad, but even more like his uncle Jason!

New Tricks

2010-06-25T08:43:00.000-07:00

Have I mentioned that Miles is (FINALLY) walking?? I mean really walking, he's been taking steps for many months now, but it definitely wasn't his main mode of transportation. But about a week ago, he just stood up, and walked across the room...and hasn't stopped since.

Please ignore the most annoying mom voice that ever existed and watch my kid wave.

California Dreaming

2010-06-23T15:11:00.001-07:00

I know, I know, why am I dreaming of California when we're having such a beautiful summer here in beautiful Bend? I don't know, there's just something about the smell of the ocean, the sand between my toes, the beautiful people...I would move back to the great state of California in a second if my hubby allowed it. No offense Bend, but I have to admit I was a little sad when we drove (yes, we drove!) back over the state line into Oregon on Monday. But I digress, lets get down to the real reason for this post. Our trip to Monterey!

Last Wednesday we made the 10 hour drive down to Cali to visit some of our favorite people and long time family friends, the Porters. Dan and Debbie graciously opened their home to 13 visitors (yes, I said 13 extra people, don't worry, their house is big enough to accommodate a small army)and what a weekend we had. The beach, the Monterey Aquarium with Ava, The US Open (during which I think I consumed about 100 beers), awesome weather, even better food, and some very late nights with the people I love. Could it get any better? I think not! The only downside of our trip was during the first day, Ava decided to throw sand at me while I was taking her picture, and broke my camera...so I only got a few pics, oh, and the 10 hour car ride with 2 kids and a dog wasn't all it's cracked up to be either. But we managed...and it was all worth it!

A very windy day at the beach

Trying to get a picture of this child standing still at the beach was next to impossible

Miles' first look at the ocean...and the sand...loved it!

Monty LOVED the ocean too. Until she got the squirts and covered the beach with poo.

Our wonderful hosts (and Ava's 3rd Grandma) Dan and Debbie

Thong thong thong thong thong!

2010-06-15T08:01:00.000-07:00

Is that song stuck in your head yet? If not, go here.
I swear there's a meaning for this post...this isn't just about me wanting to find a good excuse for putting the "Thong Song" on my blog...

So we're putting Ava to bed the other night (she usually sleeps in her undies and a tank top) and she gets up, pulls her undies right up her butt, puts her hands on her hips, and starts strutting around, shaking her bootie.

Galen said, "Ava, get your undies out of your butt, we don't do that!" and Ava said "But Daddy, Mommy has undies like this!"

Galen and I look at each other and try so hard not to bust up laughing, unsuccessfully.

I say, "Ava, Mommy wears those undies cause she's an old lady, only old ladies wear undies like that. You can't wear undies like that cause you're a big girl, not a boring old lady..."

Well, now every time Ava sees me in my underwear she points out that I have "Old Lady Undies" on. Guess the thong is the new Granny Panty.

Look of the Week {Hiker Hottie}

2010-06-09T10:34:00.000-07:00

Who says hiking gear has to be boring? I like to look festive everywhere I go, especially since my parents and brother aren't fancy at all...

This is me getting ready for our big hike last weekend.

Looking GOOOOOD (as usual) my secret? Mix lots of prints and DO NOT brush your hair.

Dad and Miles, in their usual boring clothes.

Mommy, Miles and Me. Who looks the best here? Me, obviously!

The view from our picnic spot. BEAUUUUUTIFUL!

I'm So Lucky...

2010-06-06T16:52:00.000-07:00

to have a best friend who's also a wonderful photographer!
Mrs. Erin Rinabarger (also known as Coffey) came down to visit Memorial Day Weekend. The Blyth brood was originally planning on making the trek to Spokane to visit family, but decided against the long drive and stayed home instead...what a great decision! Coffey decided last minute to make the 6 hour drive all by herself to come see us.
We spent the weekend with Auntie Coffey eating good food, drinking good drinks, laughing... a lot, and of course, taking pictures!!
Here are a few...

Thanks so much for coming to see us...and, as always, thanks so much for such great pictures! Next time we will have to get some of you! See you in a month friend!

Oil Obsessed

2010-06-02T20:20:00.000-07:00

Ahhh, our dear little Ava. Such a little sponge.

So, The other day it was raining (when isn't it raining here these days?) and Ava starts to whimper and whine. I say, "What's the matter Ava?" And she says, "Mommy, is OIL going to start falling out of the sky? I don't want the oil to kill our garden!" I said, "No honey, why do you think it's going to rain oil?" and she said: "Because rain comes from the ocean and there's oil leaking in the ocean."

Wow, so literal and so sincere. Kinda made me feel sad that she had to live in a time like this, happy that she cared, proud that my kid was so smart...Amazing!

We've been trying to explain to Ava what's been happening in the Gulf and why the animals and people are so sad since the this entire catastrophe happened. She's been asking me everyday if the mermaids are going to die because of the oil, or if the planet is sick because of the oil (she's been worried about the planet's health ever since I explained Earth Day to her and we went to pick up trash around the neighborhood for a few hours to help make the earth "healthy" again. Now, everytime she sees trash on the side of the road she yells: "Stop Mommy! We have to pick up that trash so the planet doesn't get sick!"

Anyway, nowadays, whenever the news comes on she says: "Shhhhhhhh, quiet guys! The oil is on, I need to watch this!"

Future Environmentalist or Future Weather Girl? I know what you're hoping for Dad.

Rain Rain Go Away

2010-06-02T15:21:00.000-07:00

What do you do with a "high strung" three and a half year old on a rainy day?? Get creative my friends...

She did this about 100 times.

Feeling The Good Vibrations {Marky Mark Style}

2010-05-29T07:58:00.001-07:00

It's such a good vibration...come on come on come on...it's such a sweeeeeet sensation!

Check out these moves...

Look of the Week { I Love My: Leg Warmers}

2010-05-27T11:28:00.000-07:00

I've been waiting and waiting for summer to come, I just can't wait to put on my summer dresses and swim suits, tank tops and skirts without tights, but mom says the weather has to get better before I can wear these things around. It's been cold here in Bend the past couple of weeks, but no worries... I've been rocking my leg-warmers all over town the past 4 days in a row. I think they're a great accessory to any outfit....and BONUS...they keep my legs warm!

Cow Girl Style

Park Style
Ballerina Princess Style

A big Thank You to my auntie Margie for such a practical and long-lasting baby gift!

Just Another Day At the Park

2010-05-25T15:11:00.001-07:00

Ava finally learned how to "pump"

Going down...
Going up...

Typical Bendites walking around bare-foot in 50 degree weather.

Marathon Blues

2010-05-24T16:04:00.000-07:00

Well, not sure if anyone's noticed...but I haven't mentioned my marathon training since I wrote about it here. The reason being because I haven't been running at all...and have been in total denial that I'd still be able to pull 26.2 miles out of my butt in June.
You see, about a month and a half ago, I was on a 10 mile training run and rolled my ankle, no big deal, and kept running. Then the next day my ankle was feeling better but I could hardly put any weight on the opposite heel. Instead of going to the doctor I decided to ignore the stabbing pain pulsating throughout my foot, pop a bunch of Advil, and continue my training...NOT a good idea. After about a week of extremely painful runs, I decided I had better get it checked out because I now couldn't put any pressure on it at all. I would literally have to crawl out of bed and to the couch in the morning until the Advil kicked in.

So...I went to see an orthopedic doctor and it turns out...I had a Calcaneus fracture. I guess when I twisted my ankle on my long run I changed my gait and somehow fractured the bone in my good foot. Awesome. Doctor's orders were to stay off my foot for six weeks. Yes, SIX weeks. So...I obeyed, stopped running altogether and have been riding my stationary bike and lifting to keep in shape, all the while thinking I would have time to get back and train for the marathon in June...Rrrriiiiight. Keep dreaming Megs.

I've been on two runs since I was given the okay to start back up again...and I'm nowhere near marathon shape. I guess this means I won't be running 26.2 miles in June. I guess my only consolation is that instead of running the full in June, I'll be running the half with this girl and we've decided to run the San Francisco in October instead...as long as I don't go and hurt myself again (though it would be a really good excuse if I get sick of training)....

It's Just Not Fair...

2010-05-20T19:56:00.000-07:00

I've always dreamed of long beautiful eyelashes, for me...not my son.

The boys in our house definitely got the good lash gene.

Cousins

2010-05-19T08:12:00.001-07:00

Trying to get these 3 to stand still and smile at the camera is next to impossible...

Thanks for MORE tie-dye Babby and Pappa. That's just what Ava needed, she doesn't have enough!

TGIF

2010-05-14T08:18:00.000-07:00

As you can tell from my lack of posts this week, we've been pretty busy here at the Blyth household. Unfortunately for me (and Ava) school was cancelled for the rest of the school year. Ava's teacher had her baby early...so I don't have my relaxing Tuesday and Thursday mornings without the Diva Princess. I knew this was coming this summer, but having it happen in May gives me a headache. No offense Ava, but it was really nice to have some quiet time alone with Miles to go to the store, etc. I think we'll have to find some summer camps for you :)

After 25 days of below average temps here in Bend, I'm happy to announce that the sun has finally made an appearance! I'm so excited to get outside and enjoy the weekend. SUN...Finally! There is a God!

Check the kids' new hair cuts...

Have a Happy Weekend!

Important Phone Call

2010-05-10T13:40:00.000-07:00

Hey Mom...quiet down a sec. I'm trying to call Dad.

Extreme Child-proofing

2010-05-05T15:26:00.000-07:00

This kid won't stop climbing onto everything...

So we've had to take child-proofing to a whole new level...

Don't expect a sit down dinner at our house anytime soon.

Look of the Week {Channeling Janis}

2010-04-28T15:29:00.000-07:00

My Papa said I would've fit right in The Haight Ashbury ...Maybe we should move to San Fran.

I know, I look fabulous, no autographs, please.

Take another little piece of my heart now baby.

An Ode To Buddies

2010-04-26T08:32:00.000-07:00

A buddy is someone who....

you can laugh with

you can be yourself around

you get into mischief with

you play dress up with

will take you out for pizza

you can share your deepest thoughts with

will fix your hair

and teach you how to stand

will share a good snuggle

likes a good BBQ

can share your dreams

Aren't buddies the best?

1 Year Stats

2010-04-21T08:11:00.000-07:00

Well Miles, my hopes of one day having a professional football star were dashed yesterday when we received your 12 month stats from the doctor. Maybe you'll become the next Tour De France winner, track star, light-weight wrestler or boxer, or summit Mt. Everest instead...or...maybe you'll win the Nobel Peace Prize in science and math with that very large head of yours.

Don't worry though, I'm taking the pressure off you. We've got back-up plan #1 and plan #2 in Ava. I mean, come on, didn't you know the only reason I had children was to get rich off their hard work? Hollywood here we come (gag).

Here are your stats Little (and I mean LITTLE) Man:

Weight 18.5 lbs (5%)

Height 29 1/2 inches (45%)

Head 49 cm (95%)

The doctor said that even though you're on the small side, we've got nothing to worry about. You're a happy, healthy, and apparently very strong little boy. He again talked all about your great "muscle mass" maybe you should be an Olympic weight lifter. He could not believe you weren't walking all over the place yet (but I'm secretly happy you are not). He also said no more bottles, we have to cut you off cold turkey. Sorry buddy, that starts tomorrow!

And with that, I'll leave you with your latest case of the giggles. Who knew having your sister spit water all over you could be so much fun.

First Birthday Party

2010-04-19T13:21:00.000-07:00

We had a party for Miles' first birthday this past weekend. We kept it small, just family and close friends here in town. I've learned from experience that first birthdays, although very important for parents, aren't so great for the recipient. It seems these types of shin-digs are a bit overwhelming for a one year old! Below are some pics of the day. Notice that in most of the pics, Miles isn't too impressed with his party. Oh well, at least the rest of us had fun! The birthday boy with his Grumpa (our only smiling picture from the day!)
Getting the party started right

I made Jamie's famous chocolate and white cupcakes with cream cheese and coffee frosting for the occasion (thanks so much for the delish recipes James)! They were a big hit with everyone... except for Miles!

"All Done!"

Opening presents with Nonie

After a long afternoon, playing with his new gifts...a little dazed and confused!

Happy Birthday Miles! I hope you had a great time!

Diva in Training

2010-04-14T11:30:00.001-07:00

Ava has been perfecting her model poses as of late...

I have a feeling she'll be wanting an agent any day now.

(I think the dog may want one too...)

12 Month Miles(tone)

2010-04-11T19:41:00.000-07:00

12 months. Twelve months. TWELVE MONTHS! Wow, where does the time go? I cannot believe my baby boy is a year old today, and what a year it’s been.
Miles came into this world at lightning speed. I was only in labor for a few hours. In fact, from the time I got to the hospital to the time I delivered Miles was only 55 minutes! He made his entrance into the world just about as fast as he moves through life now…a mile a minute. Busy, busy, busy!

Now, when I say Miles is busy, I’m not talking normal baby busy. I’m talking moving, climbing, and getting into everything from dawn till dusk. Don’t believe me? Come see my house…I’ve got stuff everywhere from the time our little monkey wakes up till the time he goes to sleep. There’s really no point in picking it up…it’s like a hurricane blows through my house everyday. I mean it, his room, Ava’s room (much to her dismay), the living room, the bathroom, our bedroom…nothing is safe. He pulls everything off the shelves, pulls all the clothes out of the drawers, all the tupperwear out of the cupboard, the toilet paper off the roll, the pillows off the couch, and of course, every single toy out of the toy boxes. He’s even figured out how to yank open our childproofed cupboards and pull pots and pans out of those. Quite the appetite for destruction.

He's 100% Male…. A man’s man. Bonafide BOY. I’m serious. This kid is such a meat-head. You wouldn’t think it by looking at his picture. He looks so sweet and little and innocent, but once you see him in action, you’ll know. He climbs on everything, and once he’s at the top of whatever it is he climbed up he tosses his head around and yells and screams at the top of his lungs to let everyone know what he’s accomplished. I swear he’ll be banging his fists against his chest like Tarzan soon.
He bangs his head on everything, on purpose, like it’s a game. He bangs his head on the wall, the floor, the couch, me, whatever. Loves it.
He loves to grunt.
He speaks his mind. If he doesn’t like something or wants something or wants to get his sissy in trouble, he’ll let us know with a very loud and very fake CRYYYY.
He eats like a man. I can put anything in front of this kid and he devours it in seconds. And…a big eater means a big pooper. I change at least 6 smelly diapers a day. We’ve been calling him the Poop Machine for a few months now. Speaking of diaper changes, they’ve become quite a challenge these days. This kid won’t sit still for more than a second so you can imagine what changing his diaper must be like. Galen and I have come to dread changing his diaper because we know there’s a good chance he’ll squirm so much it’s inevitable for poop to get all over the place.
He loves trucks, like any red-blooded Oregonian man. He plays with trucks all the time, and makes the vrrrrooom sound when he plays.
He loves testing his mama. He’ll do anything he know’s he’s not supposed to be doing like pulling the vacuum cord out of the wall or trying to tip over the side table when he’s not getting my full attention. He also loves to pull at my hair and necklace as hard as he can and see how long he can get away with it.
He’s a huge flirt.
He loves to point at people and things and say: “dat dat dat” (meaning who’s that or what’s that).
He hates being put into his car seat. Once we’re driving it’s fine but putting him in these days is a nightmare. I think he’s in for a big treat today because today’s the day we turn his seat around. That’s right Miles, no more riding backwards!!

Besides cars, his favorite toys are books. The only time he sits still during the day is if I’m reading him a book or if he’s flipping through some books by himself. He’ll do this for a half an hour.
He loves to walk behind his walker. He’s not quite walking yet (Ava walked a week or so before her first birthday. But, I’m thrilled at the fact that he still can’t get around on two legs yet. I’m sorry to say it will be soon though, he’s sooo close).
He stands.
He drinks MILK…bu-bye formula!
His favorite game is pee-ka-bo.
His favorite thing in the world is his blankie, coming in a close second is our yellow dog (or “dug” as Miles would say).
His favorite food is oranges. He has four teeth.
He loves taking baths.
He already loves cartoons.
He loves his big sister and follows her everywhere trying to mimic everything she does (which is really annoying to her).
His favorite thing to say is “all done”
He makes his mommy and daddy oh-so HAPPY!
Happy Birthday Miles!!!

12 Months Old

(on your birthday present from mommy and daddy).

11 Months
10 Months
9 Months
8 Months
7 Months
6 Months
5 Months

4 Months

3 Months

2 Months

1 Month

April 12, 2009

Look of the Week {Biker Babe}

2010-04-10T08:33:00.000-07:00

How cool is my little red bike? I mean, look at it, all tricked out with chrome wheel protector, a bell, and handlebar tassels...100% awesome dude.
I just had to show this off. I think it's a really great accessory when worn with any ensemble. I don't know why...but every time I get on this bike my mom starts humming the "wicked witch" tune from Wizard of OZ...weird.