Wry Baby

Roxborough State Park

2011-03-06T14:19:00.000-08:00

...exploring nature's jewels. It's so nice to have amazing scenery in our backyard again!

Him's 3!!

2011-02-27T20:48:00.000-08:00

Rylan's birthday weekend was filled with fun. Nana & Poppy came for the weekend. Race car cake was made. The 3-finger flash, was mastered!

A party for Chuck E. Cheese was planned.. for March 27 @ 4:00. Whoops! Daddy messed up the reservation by a month which was discovered - ahem, when he called to confirm our reservation. But, he's our hero and managed to reschedule the party for 6:00. One of our little friends couldn't join us for the new time, but his friend Davis came along, as planned. Turned out that Chuck E. Cheese did not disappoint.

Rylan enjoyed all the games. Turns out his game skills rely on a continuous tongue flick. He surprised us all by jumping in the ticket blaster without fear, goggles on... and caught a lot of tickets (one in his mouth, even!)

Cake was eaten, games were played, prizes were won. The three year old left with a smile on his face.. and we can count the event a success. I wonder if this will be our last Chuck E. Cheese experience?

We designed and mailed our Thank-You's, and it's official - our baby is 3!!

Fruit Loops

2011-02-24T19:48:00.000-08:00

stellar parenting strategy FAIL: While shopping, the little guy was fondling every box of brightly colored and sugar fortified cereal in the store. After asking for the 27th box of it, I stopped answering. At this, he took my silence to mean a "yes" and plopped a box of Fruit Loops in the cart. Next aisle, while his back was turned, I deposited them on a random shelf. Returned home. Got chatty on the phone and hear a commotion upstairs. Sorta like eggs breaking.

Confirmed eggs smashed to smithereens, and the rest of the grocery stuff in a large pile on the floor. "Him's looking for Him's Fruit Loops, Mama!"

This is "Him's MAD face." "MOM. Wherrrrrre's MY Fruit Loooooops???"

Cowboy

2011-02-19T19:53:00.000-08:00

In preparation of Cowboy Nick's 3rd birthday, we did our traditional (i.e. last minute, but we've become famous for it) decorate our own wrapping paper. Both kids were dressed as "cowboy" as we could muster, and I found Rylan in his new thrifted cowboy hat majorly adorable. Yeehaw!

..a day off from school!

2011-02-18T20:34:00.000-08:00

The cookie says it all....

2011-02-14T20:40:00.000-08:00

{traditional Valentine cookie a la Nana Bieker}

Yeehaw!

2011-02-13T10:17:00.000-08:00

Snow Ice Cream

2011-02-12T10:55:00.001-08:00

‎...nothing will stop this child from eating snow. Except - a bribe of snow ice cream. if. he. stops. it. right. this. instant.

Have you ever tried it?
Surprisingly, tasty!

Birthday boy

2011-02-11T11:36:00.000-08:00

Rylan has been asked what he'd like to do for his birthday, and he's remained consistent. SO, the planning begins. This will be his first experience at this magical place.

Please note: that we are also hoping this exhausts your interest in it!!!

Bum-Bum Girls

2011-02-09T11:32:00.000-08:00

Kenzie was walking out of school one day..and standing by the door handing out flyers was a handful of cute high school aged Pom Pom Girls. She was handed a flyer. And, that's all it took to convince her she needed to do the Pom Pom Clinic they were advertising. The school refers to these girls as the "Tom's." As a family, we had a hard time figuring out what to call the event - Pom-pom, maybe... Tom-tom????? So, we settled on what Rylan called them. "Bum-Bum girls!"

Kenzie performed at Half-time, which is a long wait for the little guy to see some action. He exhausted all things with entertainment value, until we got to see the "bum-bum girls" in action....

Valentine's!

2011-02-03T13:34:00.000-08:00

We've been on snow days for the past two days.. even though we only had ..maybe.. an inch of snow! The temperatures of -20 were enough to seal the deal for schools, apparently. Funny, Kenzie headed back to school today... and it's been snowing albeit a little warmer. We may be in for another day off tomorrow?

So, we tackled our Valentine's during the break and I LOVE how they came out. The outcome makes each of the kids smile too. We took photos of them with hands outstretched. Cut some slits above and below the hand, and inserted a sucker. Done.

Milestones Report

2011-01-28T13:30:00.000-08:00

You're a boy of great comedy & character. You love orchestrating surprises. In the picture above, I could hear you talking on the monitor, apparently arranging a scene that would "scare da pants offa Mommy!" You enjoy being creative with your sister and almost every day you guys are up to some pretend scenario - you're puppies, bobcats, Mommy & child, living in caves, pretending to be sick and tending to one another.... gosh, there's never a dull moment around you two!

You've reached the age where you push each other's buttons, but the majority of your time is spent as fast friends. You're both early risers, much to your parents chagrin. And, you're both fixated on waking the other up - if you're first up. Guess, that's one of the hazards of your bedroom suite being separated from ours, by it's own staircase!

When sissy isn't around, you're my little buddy. We do fun stuff (& not so fun stuff) together and I so enjoy my time with you. I never know when there might be a dinosaur (or a heard of 'em) tailing behind the car. You insist they like popsicles and snacks.. and it's really fun to play along with you - letting your imagination lead the way. You, Kenzie and I have developed a fondness for thrifting. We never know what treasures we might trip over at what you call "the junk store!"

You've got a mastery of language by now, and are easy to understand in all that you say. We enjoy the cute wordings you choose and your pronouns are a hoot! "hers hungry." or "I'm going to him's big boy school." or "him's my friend." Your name is still perplexing to anyone new we meet - they always eliminate the "l" and think you're Ryan. Which you find highly annoying. You've mastered a "cute" look that's all your own. When you know you're being especially adorable, you squint your eyes just the tiniest bit, tilt your head to the left and bat your eyelashes. I suspect this has been designed to melt hearts...and let me tell you: it. works.

You are fascinated by all things superhero (& rotate through your costumes with frequent changes). Toy Story characters, Seek & Find Books, dinosaurs, and anything messy tops your list of favorite playstuffs. You love trucks, and making them crash. And, you love being helpful. Dinner preparation finds you by my side, wishing to assist.

Can't hardly believe it..but your third birthday is just around the corner. You're looking forward to Nanny and Poppy visiting for it and have insisted that your party will be at "Chuck E. Cheese... with balloons. & friends. and a race car cake."

So be it. Might as well get the Chuck E. Cheese party out of your system! Can't wait!

potty-training...

2011-01-08T13:21:00.000-08:00

So, you're a big boy now. You're just shy of three and you've managed to use the toilet on several occasions at your own request. So, we embarked on the great task of potty-training.

The thing is... your aim is a little off. We started out sitting, but you like to do it "like Daddy." You also have miniature toilets at school and see your friends standing "like Daddy" there too. So, we're trying to do it the big boy way.....

~and hosing down the walls. Making puddles in the corners. Spraying your arms. Heck, you even shot yourself in the forehead... {as you were peering over that big belly trying to determine which direction to aim}. We've tried Cheerios as "targets." We've tried standing on stools & books. You're tall enough. We just need to master the equipment.

Seems like it's a "trial and error" thing. As child #2, you were another easy potty-trainer. You've got it down, and haven't had any accidents. Well, that is.. except for what we like to call - "the misfires!"

mr. smartypants

2011-01-07T13:10:00.000-08:00

When Mommy is working and not being helpful.... I guess little guys just help themselves to a movie on Netflix and make themselves comfy on the dogbed near the desk. Mommy was surprised by your ingenuity and a little concerned about how easily you navigated the iPad!

So, mommy made herself feel better by letting you make a big messy art project. "Look! I make a Lake!"

daredevils

2011-01-03T13:02:00.000-08:00

These kiddos were desperately seeking a sledding experience. Amazingly, they survived sledding down the stairs followed by "skiing."

Surprise Visitors

2010-12-30T13:00:00.000-08:00

Doug's 40th birthday arrived, and I managed to arrange a surprise for everyone. Our besties from Birchwood Hills came!! I had such a difficult time getting through the day (& months before) without blowing the secret.

I left the front door open and they snuck right in. The happy grins and squeals I witnessed as they were discovered were PRICELESS!

We had such a great busy time ..but the weekend sped by! With heavy hearts, we sent them back to Kansas. Thanks for coming Wastlers!

!!magic!!

2010-12-28T12:48:00.000-08:00

Daddy received a birthday gift of BBQ from Kansas City. The dry ice gave us an exciting magic lesson:

Winner, Winner, Christmas Dinner

2010-12-25T20:59:00.000-08:00

:: costume changes were essential ::

: table set by the littles ::

::dinner made with Kenzie serving as head chef::

:: fancy drinks for all :: wonderful Christmas dinner, smiles from everyone.

::Followed by EZ Bake desert made by Kenzie {heavy on the sprinkles} ::

Christmas

2010-12-25T20:49:00.000-08:00

This year was the year of the boy toys. Daddy got a little insulted when Rylan was running about in sissy's princess dresses. And, I noticed how excited Rylan got over boy toys at playdates...

So.. on his "list" was: Rex, Woody, Slinky Dog and Jessie. He got those from Nana Dinkel & Kenzie.

And, we stocked him up good with Batman, Spiderman, and a Pirate costume. Aunt Lori sent Superman. We got him all the cool figures he'd been lusting over at friends' houses... and it's official. He. can. play. like. a. boy. now!!!

Some Day....

2010-12-22T20:46:00.000-08:00

maybe you guys will appreciate all the photos Mama took? On this day, you sure weren't interested in being cute in the reflective ornament.. that's for sure!

12 Days, 2010

2010-12-13T20:37:00.000-08:00

As has become the tradition, my mom - better known as Nana Bieker - sent the kids very large boxes of the 12 Days of Christmas goodies. This year was especially awesome, because Rylan was old enough to "get it."

Typically, the kids are up at the crack of dawn. But, of course, with this special treat they got up even earlier! Most of our photos are of them with severe bedhead and jammies on. Some are taken because they've convinced me that regardless of how dark it is...it's time to get up and open their daily gift!! I take a lot of photos so my mom can watch them enjoy her efforts. She counts down the days along with us.

Now, Nana goes to great lengths to rewrite the song every year so that the daily goodies are inserted in the song. It's such a crack up to listen to us singing the song...which we try to do before opening the gifts. It's a really fun way to count down the days to the holiday and it makes my kids feel so stinking special. Thanks Nana!

Train ride!

2010-12-12T21:15:00.000-08:00

Rylan's a decent fan of trains. The light rail in our new city has been especially fascinating for him - he loves to watch it zip along beside us (in the car) as we drive along a highway.

We thought it would be a great time to ride the train downtown for lunch.
And. We. Were. Right!

Rylan was an awfully tired boy on the way home...

on skates!

2010-12-09T20:59:00.000-08:00

This fabulous little shopping area is across the street from our subdivision. It's always dressed in twinkley lights and it has a neat little commons area with a large fireplace in the center of it. Hot Chocolate kiosks are easily found...and there's great shopping everywhere you look. A special treat was discovering that the grass lawn (which holds concerts in the warm months) is converted to an ice skating rink during the winter.

Nana & Poppy Came to Town!

2010-12-08T20:57:00.000-08:00

Nana & Poppy came to town to see our new house and love on the kids, since it had been a few months since we'd seen them. We had a wonderful visit showing off our new community. We probably glowed with pride the whole time ~ because they were just as charmed by it as we have been!

We also visited a large number of SA's so that they could do some Christmas Shopping with our wonderful discount. It became a joke as we drove to the next one, looking for another sweet deal. Everyone had a great time, and we even got some hot-tubbin' in.

Although we're loving the Colorado life, it has been a harsh adjustment that our grandparents aren't very accessible anymore. Kenzie and Rylan miss them with a vengeance and it's sure to take many more months before they come to terms with the fact that Friday morning pancakes aren't a possibility anymore.

At least we have wonderful visits like this, to hold us over until next time!!

Merry Holiday!

2010-11-27T20:34:00.000-08:00

While decorating the house, the kids decided to decorate these spare trees for their rooms. Kenzie did hers in Littlest Petshop and leftover Christmas ornaments. Rylan went for the hotwheel car option. I took a few photos and hastily devised this Christmas Card. Of course, as is typical for me, I realized it didn't print well and I ended up sharing it via facebook instead of via the mail. Whoopsie. Usually, it's procrastination that gets me. This year, it was my clever timeliness!

Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T20:12:00.000-08:00

Our first Thanksgiving in Colorado was spent at home snuggled in the fold of our little family. The weather was beautiful so we walked down to our neighborhood park and had a good play. After a lazy afternoon - we commenced with the cooking. Doug discovered a new recipe for Buffalo Chicken Wings on the grill that was absurdly delicious (Kenzie loved them too!) Kenzie and I made our first stuffing, and it was surprisingly perfect. Rylan helped stir just about everything we ate.

Kenzie and Rylan decorated and set the table for dinner. Buzz Lightyear made an appearance for the final feast.

This year, we are thankful for this new home, which we love. This new state, which we love. And, for this wonderful holiday spent together (with some others joining us via Skype). We're building a pretty great life in Colorado, and we're all on the same page when we say we're thrilled & thankful to be here. A dip in the hot tub was a lovely way to end the day!

{snuggles}

2010-11-17T19:30:00.000-08:00

While the sister is at school, we seem to find a decent amount of moments like this. This kid has a very sweet heart.

"Him's Big Boy School"

2010-11-08T09:11:00.000-08:00

Last year, we'd enrolled Rylan in the "Day out" program of Kenzie's old Preschool. It was just one long day of playing with friends and gaining socialization skills. In preparation, we started announcing Rylan's school as we drove by, etc. And, then we moved...a few weeks before he got to start going.

The little guy was so excited about "Him's Big Boy School" though and has been asking nearly daily, when we'd find "him's school," usually as we dropped Kenzie off at each morning. So, I started calling schools, near and far, and learning that they were all chock full. Because enrollment occurred LONG before we'd even thought of relocating.

After touring three schools, this one felt just right. Rylan loved it. I loved it. Instead of one long day with a naptime, they do two short morning sessions and the kiddo comes home for lunch. We signed up and they said he could start the following Monday!

We rushed out to buy his backpack...and he'd already firmly decided it would be a "Buzz Like-year" one. Of course, all Target had in the backpack section was Thomas and Diego. He was very disappointed, but decided he'd carry them both around the store a bit to determine which would work instead of "Buzz." Stubborn, I kept wandering the aisles thinking to myself that there "has to be a Buzz backpack somewhere!" And, what do you know...in the camping section, I found this one - which included a Buzz sleeping bag.

So, he was all set. And totally excited. Drop off happened without a tear. He waltzed right up to a quiet little guy and said "Hi, my name's Rylan. Wanna play?" The little guy didn't answer, so Rylan dropped down next to him anyway. I let him know I'd be leaving soon as he was sitting down at the table to paint a "I is for Inchworm" page. And, that was that.

He was happy at "Him's Big Boy School."

Halloween

2010-10-31T20:46:00.000-07:00

We were all very excited for our first Halloween in our new house. We'd heard the "circle" is the place to be for lots of trick or treaters. It was a gorgeous day, an unseasonably warm 80+ degrees. Rumor has it..it's typically snowing by this time of year!

There was no question what Rylan would be. He hadn't stepped 2 feet into the costume shop - when he spotted Buzz "Like"-year. (as he calls him). He's been wearing the costume a lot and he's pretty sure it makes him run and fly faster than ever before. "To infinity...& beeeyoooooooond!"

We walked the circle and did a lot of squealing about the goodies being handed out. Little pumpkins chock full of goodies...Beanie Babies! Holy Moly. The loot was good!

Late Start

2010-10-20T21:05:00.000-07:00

Today, Kenzie's school had "late start" so to celebrate, I walked the entire neighborhood of kids to school. Rylan was so patient and the weather was so lovely - so we hit the park after we dropped them all off. He started off by rolling down the hill...and then he made a new friend named Patty.

Getting Fancy

2010-10-15T21:07:00.000-07:00

As we unpack the house, the kids have found excitement in the rediscovery of old things. Kenzie has been "dressing up" about a zillion times a day by pulling out random outfits from her closet - which she hasn't seen for a couple months. Today, Rylan joined her. Turns out he likes "getting a little fancy!"

Last Day of RV living

2010-10-07T21:10:00.000-07:00

Rylan's been my little buddy all day at the campsite, while Kenzie has been at school. Today, we visited the park...one more time... It's been such a great way to pass the time. But, I am so happy to move away! :)

On the way back, he stopped to feed his dragon some berries from the bush. And, well... he was multi-tasking while he was hidden in the tree. Bathroom pit-stop!!

Spinning

2010-10-05T21:22:00.000-07:00

The Denver Zoo

2010-10-02T21:17:00.000-07:00

We made our inaugural trip to the Denver Zoo today. What Great fun we had!!!

Our house is famous!

2010-09-28T21:24:00.000-07:00

As we anxiously await our move-in date, we were notified that our new front door made the cover of this magazine!

Sweet Siblings

2010-09-23T21:57:00.000-07:00

Nothing warms a Mama's heart more than seeing moments like this. This was taken in the stream, in the park, next to the school...of our new home! We learned that much traffic could be avoided by wasting time in this stream! (before heading back to the campground!)

"hims most favorite tree"

2010-09-20T21:55:00.000-07:00

This large old tree was next to one of our campsites. Each time you trotted off to go climb in it, you'd tell me that you're "going to him's most favorite tree!"

Breckenridge

2010-09-19T21:52:00.000-07:00

This weekend we stayed in Breckenridge (we can never get a campsite for the weekend!). What a beautiful place to spend a weekend, and it was perfectly timed with Oktoberfest. This was daddy's idea, and I have to admit it was brilliant!

Cruising...

2010-09-07T21:39:00.000-07:00

To pass some time this weekend, we went driving with no known destination. We visited a beautiful waterfall and had an interesting lunch at a restaurant that Daddy remembered from his college days. The food was good. The place was not so clean. It was a great day of carefree exploration.

Handsome Man

2010-09-03T21:40:00.000-07:00

Chatfield State Park

2010-09-02T13:32:00.000-07:00

As we wait on my car to arrive, our house to close, etc. we are enjoying some lazy days at Chatfield State Park. The kids are enjoying a park that's just a few yards away. We've wandered to the lake more than a few times. We've taken some time to be artsy outdoors and - we have even melted some crayons in a batch of laundry.

Our first day here was gorgeous. But, we learned a quick and important lesson. "Microbursts" can come through without any warning...and rip your awning totally off the RV! So amidst all the other chaos, we are waiting for an insurance adjuster to come peak at our crumpled up and ruined awning. We'll be looking forward to getting that fixed soon!

While Daddy is at work, we just try to enjoy each other. Most days we find it's easy -- just like being on vacation. :) But, the days that we do find hardest are when the hot sun creeps over and hangs out. Mid-afternoon can be blazing hot! And, well...since we've got no awning and relatively little shade - we hang out in the RV during the hot, Hot, HOT hours and get on one another's nerves.

In summary - I think this camping experience, which may expend on to 3+ weeks, is one that earns us raised eyebrows from most. It's working out to be a perfect solution for us (& our pets!) and I think we're assured some pretty fantastic memories that will stay with us forever.

Hey kids.. Remember that one time... that we camped forever??

Colorado!!

2010-08-29T14:02:00.000-07:00

After a quick trip, broken into two days {with a night spent next to the semi's at a rest stop} - it's official:

We LIVE in Colorado!

Here we are crossing the border. Yep, we were one of THOSE families who stopped to take pictures of the occasion!

***photo of Mom & Dad, taken by Kenzie!

Moving Trucks.

2010-08-25T14:11:00.000-07:00

You're a typical boy...totally enamored with trucks and tractors and anything loud. Often as we're driving down the highway - you're screaming from the backseat:
MAMA! LOOK! A tractor. MAMA! LOOK! A crane! MAMA! What's in that semi??? etc.

We started a game awhile back, guessing what's inside of those big semi's..and you've long ago come to realize what a moving truck looks like.
But, oh my goodness.... None of us expected that it was going to take the biggest moving truck on the planet to move us to Colorado! You were so excited to watch it pull up. Study it. Ask questions about "What are they DOING??"

And, then, if the day couldn't be any better. A cement mixer pulls into the cul-de-sac to work on the neighbors sidewalk. Two big trucks in your cul-de-sac. On the same day?? WOW!

Now would also be a good time to note that you mention all trucks by name, according to the Jon Scieszka's books like Smash! Crash! and Truckery Rhymes. Add to that...the Thomas the Train series...and we have just about everything on 4- wheels named!

Cranes are named Cranky.
Ambulances are named Rita.
Dump Trucks are named Dan Dumper.
Big Trucks are called Monster Truck Max.
Garbage Trucks are named Gabbie.
Cement Mixers are called Cement Mixer Melvin.
Ice Cream Trucks are named Izzy.

..and trust me. I could go on & on! You've got a name for everything on the road! And, it's funny - because now you call out:
MAMA! There's Cranky! And, I know just what to look for!

Saying Goodbyes..

2010-08-21T21:05:00.000-07:00

As we get ready to relocate to CO, you and Kenzie are in the position of saying goodbye to the friends you've cherished for your (Rylan's) entire life. It's gone pretty well as you both seem enamored with the idea of living in the "MOUNTAINS!" But I just know you're gonna miss "My Sophia" as you always call her. You two are always up to something cute together...like you are here: You're showing her your cool soccer shoes, hand-me-downs from Kenzie, that are at least two sizes to big for you. And, well, Sophia thinks they're pretty darn cool, too.

Kenzie had a final playdate with her gal pals before we left - and you were included. These girls have been over frequently, and you've always been in the fold right there with them.

Fortunately, your best playdate is coming along with you to show you the ropes in CO!

On our last night in town, Nana & Poppy, Annie, Andrew & Kelly came to tell us goodbye. Don't worry - they promise to visit us in CO, real soon!

Bonk!

2010-08-21T14:09:00.000-07:00

The story: You and Kenzie were running around like wild-crazies. Someone came up with the idea to wear diaper hats while you did it. I kept trying to take your picture as you went by - but kept catching only a blur. And, then...the diaper slipped over your eyes.

And. you. ran. into. the. wall.

Game Over!

We're moving!

2010-07-29T14:29:00.000-07:00

So kiddo. Daddy has left this morning and you're still not quite sure what's going on. Everyone's talking about "we're moving to Colorado." And, you've heard it enough times that you're telling everyone too. "I's going to Colorado! My bed is going to the mountains!!!"

It's big news, and we're all excited about it. There's just one problem. We're leaving the swingset behind!

Helper to the Daisies

2010-07-25T14:32:00.000-07:00

Somebody was a lot of help while we set up girl scout camp. Until he went and fell on his head in a mud puddle! I think this is one of the many reasons why you became kind of a troop mascot!

I's Dressed!

2010-07-12T14:34:00.000-07:00

Having gone quiet in the bedrooms upstairs - I called up to you both. Kenzie assured me that she had it under control - she was just getting you dressed for the day. She says you chose this outfit together.

And, you both seemed to love it very much. So, I let you wear it for the whole morning!

Colorado Trip

2010-07-06T14:47:00.000-07:00

This year, we planned a duplicate of last year's camping trip to Morraine Park. We were really looking forward to it - especially since Daddy has started interviewing for a job in Denver. We had a memorable trip to the mountains this year, but were especially sad to leave them behind on the way back home in Kansas. We all kind of had our fingers crossed that we'd be returning soon ..as Colorado Residents!

These are my favorite photos of you taken during that trip:

Fourth of July!!

2010-07-04T15:03:00.000-07:00

lounge lizards

2010-06-28T15:20:00.000-07:00

The Wastler's Lake House

2010-06-19T15:28:00.000-07:00

Our good friends, the Wastler's invited us to their lakehouse for the weekend. The trip up was a bit awful - because Mr. Rylan spewed his lunch all over the car mid-way there. But, once we got there - we all had amazingly splendid time! Most of the time was spent in the water, which made all of us really, very happy! Rylan got to ride a wave-runner with Daddy - and his grin did not diminish the whole time!

!!!!!MUD!!!!!!

2010-06-12T15:44:00.000-07:00

Pamona Lake

2010-05-30T15:46:00.000-07:00

We tried out a new camping adventure and headed to Pamona Lake for the Holiday Weekend. It was a lovely venue, very much different than any others we've tried before. We loved it! (except for the ticks!)

Hide & Seek.

2010-05-27T15:45:00.000-07:00

Rylan loves hide & seek. But, he's not so very good at picking the best hiding places....

I's Ready to Play!!!

2010-05-16T15:41:00.000-07:00

He's driving me..up a tree.

2010-05-10T15:42:00.000-07:00

Rylan often see's the neighborhood kiddos climbing in the big trees. He's begun demanding that he do it too. After he gets his climbing boots on, of course.

Mermaid!

2010-05-04T16:20:00.000-07:00

Every once in awhile, Rylan decides is he most definitely not a baby. He's a big boy. And...he.can.do.it.meself!

And, that's how this situation came to be known as "Rylan mermaided himself!"

He shoots!

2010-04-26T16:23:00.000-07:00

..and he bounces the ball off his head!

In search of:

2010-04-23T16:24:00.000-07:00

Mud puddles, under the deck.

This little bit of cuteness was him being totally ornery. I, of course, was forbidding him to get muddy.
He, of course, had other intentions.
I lost.

Kenzie's birthday party

2010-04-20T15:00:00.000-07:00

Snapped this favorite photo of Rylan, Nana & Poppy at Kenzie's birthday party. Aren't Nana & Poppy good sports?

Poop Patrol

2010-04-11T14:23:00.000-07:00

You find this job terribly hysterical.

Flying...

2010-04-04T21:02:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I just know it's going to be a great picture as I'm taking it. I had that feeling with this shot. I don't know if this is really a stellar capture or not..but portrays the moment of glee that you were sharing with Daddy as he swung you around, that's for sure.

Easter

2010-04-03T13:25:00.000-07:00

This easter we traveled to visit Nana & Papa Bieker.

The highlight of the visit was probably not when you drove a closet door over your toe and pretty much dismantled your toenail...but fortunately, the Easter Goodies & Candy made you forget all about it!

We spent a lot of time at the park near their house and you just loved every second of it. I especially enjoyed watching my parents climb all over the play structure with you!

Peek.a.boo

2010-03-29T13:10:00.000-07:00

Roadster...

2010-03-28T12:47:00.000-07:00

On this day, your sister exclaimed she'd like to learn to ride her bike without training wheels. That didn't exactly happen, but we had a blast in a nice flat parking lot giving it her best effort!

You're a big fan of the Roadster that you inherited from Big sister. You're also a big fan of going very much...way too fast! You're also a fan of puddles. ;)

Rylan is TWO!

2010-02-27T12:23:00.000-08:00

Rylan's second birthday surprised us all, I think. How is it possible that you were just an eensy little screaming acidy-reflux mess not so long ago?? It seems like yesterday that I was whining incessantly about you not sleeping through the night. Well, you've got that under control now...and are just a humor filled sweet little stinker!

For your birthday, I made a dinosaur cake. You love to make dinosaur roars at dinner time, with each bite. This year you had a nice big bruise dead center on your forehead. I almost Photoshopped it out, but hey, it was part of the day!

You got an amazing fire station for your room (from Nana Bieker), so now you have your own large play area and can leave big sissy's Barbies alone, maybe?

We woke up and had a nice breakfast with some yummy cinnamon rolls. And, then Daddy fell out of the celebration with the flu. And, if one birthday party wasn't enough - you got to have a second one at Nana & Poppy's!

You're such a big boy (literally!) weighing in at 34 pounds and topping the percentile charts for everything. Your vocabulary is awesome. We can actually hold a pretty enlightening conversation with you these days. You're such a joy, Rylan...and you fill our hearts every day!

Cars Junkie's

2010-02-21T12:19:00.000-08:00

Mr. Rylan has become a fanatic of Cars, the movie. So, he got some Cars jammies in with his Valentine's gifts. Turns out that daddy has also become an obsessive compulsive rewarder of good behavior in the grocery store - by letting him pick a new car each visit. As you can see, he's acquired quite a collection!

Either Ry is a VERY good little boy, or daddy is very, very...weak!

This post sponsored by Chapstick

2010-02-20T12:16:00.000-08:00

....a whole tube of it!!!

Magic Tricks

2010-02-18T12:11:00.000-08:00

Rylan was very impressed by his very first discovery of "magic." Isn't he clever?

Snow Friends

2010-02-13T12:01:00.000-08:00

On this day, the perfect amount of snow fell for us to create a whole family of snow pe

Booger Boy

2010-02-10T12:06:00.000-08:00

I fear we're in for our fair share of objects lodged where they shouldn't be....

Ima Princess

2010-02-09T12:04:00.000-08:00

One can tell the sisterly influence on the little guy when you ask him: "Are you a Prince or a Princess?"

He emphatically claims: "Ima Princess!"
On this day, a little friend was over for a bit, and I have to admit Rylan enjoyed being princessy a great deal more than she did!

Identity concealed

2010-02-05T11:52:00.000-08:00

We've concealed the face of the princess on the right, to preserve his identity.

Sillies in the mirror

2010-02-02T11:46:00.000-08:00

Reading in his room...

2010-01-24T11:42:00.000-08:00

We monitor his bedroom and as result I overheard him reading to himself. So, of course, I snuck up there with the camera!

Mr. Independent

2010-01-16T11:20:00.000-08:00

You're now just a month shy of your second birthday. I feel guilty that I've been terrible at documenting your milestones, so without further delay, I'd like to bring you up to speed...

The pictures above will always bring me a smile. They demonstrate your independent spirit. On this particular day, I'd peeked in the fridge and taken stock of some lunch time options. As, I went upstairs to confer with your sister on what she preferred to eat...I came back downstairs to discover you with your very own pizza buffet, already eating. You can now do a lot of things on your own, which includes opening the refrigerator and pantry!

You are talking very well... in beginner sentences. You still say things in a way that is uniquely "you" and we all still grin when you say something because, as sissy says... "You're SO cute!"
* You love chocolate, and call it "choc"
* When someone calls you - you'll call back that you're coming, which sounds like: "I'm calming..."
* You love your Thomas & Friends trains. But, you call every last one of them "duck."
* When Kenzie heads to school with her backpack on, you have to carry yours too (which is why you got a super-duper cute one for Xmas). You also love Dora & Diego. But, you call the show "backpack."
* You have several favorite movies to watch, and when you watch them you stand there and call out directions. "T" -for turn on the TV. "Backpack" "trains" or "Baby" announce that you'd like to watch Dora, Thomas, or the sign-language video. And, once we get to inserting the DVD into the machine...you. want. to. do. that. yourself. "I DO IT."
* You're a sucker-a-holic. Nana and poppy started you on those. And, some days we battle with you all day over whether you can have one. or not. You refer to them as suck's.
* You have bathtoys that you sleep with. They are three Thomas trains. And, we have to kiss them goodnight, when we put you to bed. "nigh-night trains???" you ask until we give them their kisses and cover them up with a tiny blanket.
* You're still very interested in books. You love to be read to, but often we'll see you sitting in a corner with a billion books spread around you. You'll review them page by page with your forehead crinkled as you consider each picture. You'll often narrate them for yourself too.
*Everyone takes such delight in your terms that we've all taken to calling cow's "Mee-Moo's", Pony's "Kony's", and #2's "pee-poo's". And, we don't realize it sometimes when we're talking to Kenzie's friends and they look at us like we're crazy.
* You tell us when your diaper is dirty...and then run like mad and make us chase you to change it.
* You like the opposite of what Kenzie likes when it comes to food. You'd love eggs for breakfast every day (which she hates), won't touch peanut butter and honey (which she loves), etc. Fortunately, you both agree that "green noodles" is something you could eat every day.
* You love "molk" and talk to it like it's your long-lost friend. {milk}
* You still call to us waaaaaaay too early in the morning. Seems like we've got two early risers in the family, much to my dismay. But, often you'll run to the crib when it's naptime chanting "nap, nap, nap..."
* "momo" {elmo} always gets your attention at the library. As does rummaging through the aisles in search of books you'd like to bring home. And, being the bookworm that you are - you LOVE story hour.
*You're the lover of "nacks." You would snack all day every day if we'd let you. As I mentioned before..you'll just open that pantry door and help yourself, so we keep handy snacks there ready for ya!
* Sometimes, when you know you're in trouble (or on the cusp of it) you'll get this devilish little grin and try to charm us out of it. Once when you were already on the naughty step, you reached out to give me knuckles. I responded by reminding me you were in trouble and to sit there... so you grinned, and exploded your own knuckles. Wise guy.
* You adore playing chase & hide-and-seek. But, you get nervous when someone scares you...so you insist "mama come!" so that I can carry you and cuddle you when the monsters come out of hiding.
* Of course, Daddy coming home is a highlight of everyday. You ask me a thousand times "is Daddy calming?" until he gets here. And, then it switches to: "Daddy shoes? 'Mon" which tells daddy that you're glad he's home, now c'mon...take me somewhere!
* We have lot's of silly games, like the "I need to warm up my hands" game. If someone's just come inside and their hands are chilly, we'll sneak them up the back of your shirt and place them on your warm skin. Which makes you squeal and squirm, of course. And, that's why we like it. But, it's especially funny when you try to do it to us. Except when we're out in public!
* After you've been naughty, you know the routine upon leaving the naughty step. You head right over to offer your apology. You lower your voice, tilt your head, and with gentle hands caress the persons face - saying "I'm sorry." Everything... is always better after you give your sweet little hug.
* You answer to many things: Ry, Ry-baby, monkey, stink-bottom, sweet pea, bubs, to name a few. You call your sister Kenzie (said perfectly) or sissy. You call us simply "Mom & Dad" which is interesting given that Kenzie calls us Mommy or Mama & Daddy. You call Nana, "Nanny." You've put your own little unique spin on everything!

In summary:
You bring us many smiles kiddo. You are at your cutest freshly washed and smelling of lotion. Your eyes are huge and your eyelashes huger. And, you know that when you bat both of them at us... we'll melt in a heartbeat. Your quite the comedian. But, you're quite bossy. You want anyone and everyone to play trains with you, but there are a couple rules involved: 1. DO NOT blow the train whistle. And 2. Do not try to join trains with you.. for any reason. You'll promptly detach the extra trains and leave them in your dust. You'll also pretend to be Sir Topham Hat (or "hat" as you call him) and give the other trains their orders.

It's such a privilege to watch you with your sister. There's no one you adore more...and vice versa. She's so gentle and sweet with you, and rarely is there a sibling rivalry match. You both play together very well and we're very lucky to know that she'll tolerate just about anything that's coming from sweet little you. Sometimes your cuteness takes us all by surprise. But, she'll so readily voice it.

You've almost been in our world for two whole years. And, we've enjoyed every minute of it.

The Wee Shoveler

2010-01-15T10:11:00.000-08:00

I joke that your fondness for snow shoveling will probably come to a quick halt once you're old enough to truly help out with it..but at 23 months, man...you love to shovel! We realized this a bit late into the accumulation (after listening to you squeal while daddy and Kenzie shoveled MOUNDS), but now that you're aware of the possibility - it's impossible to tell you no.

You could shovel for hours. And you do.

But, you don't quite grasp the concept that we're trying to CLEAR the walkway when we do it. You laboriously move as much snow as possible right. where. it. shouldn't. be.

But, heck. You're happy. And, that's what life's all about, eh?

Extended vacation

2010-01-01T10:07:00.000-08:00

This year, our wish for a white Christmas went a bit too far. It snowed, and it snowed and it snowed right into Kenzie's extended vacation from school. After returning on January 4 for one whole day, the snow cancelled school for the rest of the week! While cooped up inside only to escape for a visit to the dentist and doctor - we tried to make the best of it with some fun snow day crafts and activities.... We made shrinky dink(el)s, ice ornaments, played in Mama's boots, and lots more. But, mostly we concentrated on driving a Mama nuts!

You kiddos spent a fair amount of time playing 1:1. You were even granted access to the Nude Barbie Castle!

Christmas

2009-12-25T09:31:00.000-08:00

Our 2009 Christmas was laid-back and lovely. On Christmas Eve, we stayed home with a fire and plans for a Mexican feast. Daddy brought home a Christmas movie - The Grinch. Surprised that it was only 26 minutes long, we spent the rest of the night playing with the gift you selected to open (a BACKPACK!!), dancing, and being silly. Christmas Day was spent with Nana and Poppy this year, and we had to reschedule the final celebration with Nana & Papa 3 times due to the crazy snowstorm that gave us a white Christmas. We finally "wrapped" Christmas a few weekends later!!

As parents often admit...the gifts to a young kiddo are often outshined by something silly. You would have been happy with just that stocking full of "sucks"....!

The 12 days of Christmas wrap-up

2009-12-24T12:57:00.000-08:00

The Twelve Days of Christmas Gifts have all been opened with glee (minus one left for tomorrow), and the days to Christmas have just flown by. I always take a bazillion photos for my mom so that she can watch the process unfold from afar. These are just a few of the photos that aren't compromised by bedhead, jammies, and bad breath. We tend to open the day's gift at the start to each day. It's such fun for the kids. Thanks Nana!

Rylan's gifts seem to hold an appeal for he and big sister. Good thing he seems to be slightly okay with sharing!

The countdown for Rylan has been sang out loud:
On the first day of Christmas, my Nana sent to me... one soft Christmas pony.
On the second day of Christmas, my Nana sent to me... Pat & Rusty.
On the third day of Christmas, my Nana sent to me... three dinner time tools.
On the fourth day of Christmas, my Nana sent to me... 4 ocean rollers.
On the fifth day of Christmas, my Nana sent to me....5 finger paints.
On the sixth day of Christmas, my Nana sent to me... 6 things with wheels.
On the seventh day of Christmas, my Nana sent to me... more than 7 window slicks.
On the eighth day of Christmas, my Nana sent to me... a boat with 8 accesories.
On the ninth day of Christmas, my Nana sent to me... a nine piece puzzle.
On the tenth day of Christmas, my Nana sent to me... a 10 playdough party pack.
On the eleventh day of Christmas, my Nana sent to me... 11 yummy snacks.
On the twelfth day of Christmas, my Nana sent to me... a book with 12 horn sounds...

These boots were made for walkin...

2009-12-20T13:03:00.000-08:00

Christmas Countdown

2009-12-15T12:27:00.001-08:00

As is Nana Bieker's tradition, we've received our 12 days of Christmas countdown and are enjoying starting each day off with a goodie from the stash and a little singing. Rylan has his own stash too, and it's helping the last two handfuls of days before Christmas fly by in a flash!

This year, Elfie, is watching again and reporting the kids' good behaviors to Santa. Fortunately, there hasn't been too much bad to report. It's fun to hunt him down each morning in his new hiding spot! We aren't doing an advent calendar this year to eliminate a tiny bit of Christmas chaos, but might do it again next year once Rylan is a little bit older and able to participate in doing each (or accidentally forgetting about) each activity. Regardless, it's shaping up to be a GREAT holiday season!

First snow

2009-12-08T12:39:00.000-08:00

We had our first inch of snow land. In celebration, Daddy and the kids went out to catch a few flakes on their tongue as it was coming down. The next day, we enjoyed some outdoor fun in it, followed of course, by hot chocolate. Although Mama isn't a big fan of snow, I do like to take pictures in it...and now Rylan is fully initiated into the snow-loving side of the family! It's official, even the dog loves the snow. So, Mama is on the "wrong team." {family joke}

Choo-choo for trains

2009-12-07T12:28:00.000-08:00

Since the little guy is becoming increasingly fond of everything trains, we spent the morning of Daddy's vacation day at the Union Station train exhibit. In anticipation, we had a bit of pretending at home with big sister whilst still in jammies.

And, then we drove the trek to the station and saw every bit of the huge train set they've compiled down there. Rylan wandered around with rather large eyes, taking it all in.

Upon returning home, we watched Thomas on the screen to unwind. This boy is nuts for trains!

Little Turkey

2009-11-26T15:15:00.000-08:00

Rylan wearing his turkey crown, given to him by big-sis.

Mama is thankful for both her little turkeys this year....

Huh?

2009-11-14T15:12:00.000-08:00

While painting, I caught this picture. To this day, I don't know if his expression meant:
How the heck did she get up there?
or a:
Whoops! She just caught me painting my hand!

Monkey Business

2009-10-31T14:35:00.000-07:00

Given your propensity for monkey noises since an early age, I felt this costume was more than appropriate for you. I'd bought it several months early and by the day you got to wear it, it was a tight squeeze. But, you loved being a monkey and earned more than your fare share of treats.

Piles of Leaves & Kids

2009-10-28T14:32:00.000-07:00

Pumpkin Patch

2009-10-24T14:12:00.000-07:00

We chose the most beautiful day to visit the pumpkin patch this year. It was a great day for a perfect pumpkin hunt, not to mention terrorizing the chickens!

Remodel

2009-10-14T14:09:00.000-07:00

This month finds us doing all kinds of messy things to remodel the walls of the breakfast nook. Today, I was finishing up some touch ups to the paint. After leaving the room for a bit - I wandered back in to this scene. You'd found your own "paintbrush", lost your pants, and were very eager to "help" out!

Who is that handsome baby in the mirror?

2009-10-13T14:07:00.000-07:00

Lately, you can't get enough of socializing with that baby in the mirror. You still refer to him as "baby", but we all know he's pretty darn cute!

Photographic summary of Ry's favorite things

2009-10-01T13:15:00.000-07:00

Words probably aren't necessary, but these days, Rylan is loving:
cleaning, helping, trains, horses, riding, & cooking.

Worlds of Fun

2009-09-13T20:28:00.000-07:00

Every year, Daddy's employer takes us to Worlds of Fun for worlds of fun. Your sister is quite the ride-riding machine...but I think you felt a bit left out of everything. You watched from the sidelines, very patiently waiting your turn. Finally, we reached snoopy land and you had a hoot with all the balls, tunnels, slides and toys housed there.

But, the highlight? You adored the mud puddle next to our bench at lunch. Worlds of fun...right there in the mud puddle!

Update on Life: at 18 months old

2009-09-12T20:08:00.000-07:00

It's time I document what you're up to these days! And, that includes lots of talking!! Goodness your words are impressive, clear, and oooh, so cute!

Your vocabulary:
Hi, Mommee, Daddee, Kenzie, Sissy, Kitty, Cesi (the bad cat), Ball, Hot, Down, Help Me, Ow, {Z}oey, Car, Shoes, Swing, Tree, Bye, Go, Sit, Eye, Meow, Quack, Moo, Hisssss, Hoot, Snack, Shoes, Maaaa (goat), Duck, Up, Down, Okay, Eat, Hi Daddeee!, and you've got "no, no, no..." down pat!

You're a whopping 34 pounds, which lands you in the 94th percentile. Mama exclaimed "oh good, he's slowing down!" and got a grin from the doctor at your well-baby appointment, who said "um, he's still HUGE." And, well..you're still 100th percentile for height, and your head circumference is way off the charts. But, you're growing in proportion to yourself and at a continued rapid pace. You're wearing 2T & 3T clothes and still costing us a fortune to keep you dressed. Oh, and your feet are 8 Double Wide. Which means that Stride Rite had ONE pair of shoes for you to choose from!

You know all your body parts, and when asked "who's Rylan" you point your finger at your forehead. You've been telling us when you need a diaper change, you clever boy - so you're getting to know your new potty chair. You love helping out and are actually pretty insistent at helping make dinner...and you feed Zoey and the cats just about every day. You also give Zoey her medicine, although sometimes it turns into a bit of a chase as you bait and switch on her throughout the house.

It seems that you take after your Mama (finally, someone does!) with your love for books. Your sister loves a good story, but I think you could probably just sit around and read all day long...just like I could. We've got little baskets of books everywhere and you'll commonly sit down and read yourself a story - but most often, you start patting the chair and yelling at one of us to do it for you. When we hear a chair being patted around here...we know it's reading time!! NOW.

You won't even glance at a TV, much to my chagrin (it is a most excellent babysitter if you'll just give it a chance? - especially first thing in the morning!) You're still an early riser, much to my chagrin. 5-6:00 is way too early for me.

We had a nice run where you would put yourself in time-out at the mere mention of the threat. But..well, that was short lived and now you're finding things that get to us (like playing in the flower beds) and you get this cute little grin and push it to the limit. You've learned which houses on the cul-de-sac are most generous with their popsicles and you're over there a begging, because no one can tell you no!

You Run! You climb. You're becoming so self-sufficient. Yet, you're still our baby and we are enjoying you so very much!

Big & Little

2009-09-08T19:52:00.000-07:00

Deanna Rose, yet again.

2009-09-07T20:01:00.000-07:00

Nothing to do on a Sunday? Deanna Rose Farmstead again!

This time, Rylan found a stray balloon, quickly befriending it. It happily tagged along on all his travels.

Irish Fest

2009-09-06T19:46:00.000-07:00

This year was your first year to really experience the Irish Fest. Last year found you strapped to a stroller, after all. So, you enjoyed as much of it as you could - given that you're still too little (ha. LITTLE? You? I know, there's nothing little about you!) but..I digress.. yes, you're too little for all the little bounce houses. And, well..there's that whole fact that. you. can't. jump. yet. So, you had to hang with Mama and watch from the outside which you were very patient about.

Thank gosh for those fountains and the bubble tables (oh, and the music!), because there was lots for you to enjoy with those. Um, except for that little splashing bubble boy who was a monster!

But, after we were done at the Irish fest, we were invited to dinner at our good buddies, the Del Popolo's house..and they blew up their bounce house where you could totter and fall all you wanted!

Chasing Balloons

2009-09-03T19:53:00.000-07:00

A fun spontaneous outing presented when we saw a hot air balloon floating over our backyard. Hopping in the Jeep and expecting a bit of a lengthy drive to watch it land (hopefully), we actually saw it coming down 3 blocks away! It was fascinating and fun...and now we all want to ride in one!!!

Wanderers

2009-09-02T19:40:00.000-07:00

Often, when we have nothing else to do...we go a wandering, which involves Kenzie telling us which turn to take at what street. The goal is that we'll end up...where we end up.

But...somehow, she always lands us in the neighboring 'hoods park. Where we really aren't invited to play, given that we don't live there. But, judging from the number of photos we have of this park - we aren't a family who abides by the assumed rules. Shame on us!