The Purchase I Never Thought I'd Make

So, there's nothing attractive about a minivan. I fought the purchase of one for some time now. In fact, we purchased a bigger crossover (Mazda CX-9) this summer when we knew we would need more space with two carseats. But, what I learned in the process was family-friendly features trump style anyday. The crossover was awkward and the 3rd row seat was practically inaccessible with the two car seats on the front row. It was hard to crawl in the back if the kids were going crazy. It was next to impossible to get the kids in and out of carseats in a cramped parking lot because the doors were so large. And the double stroller wouldn't even fit in the back without folding one half of the third row down. So, we decided to cut our losses and downsize (buy a older/less expensive minivan) for both the convenience and the hope that I can eventually work part-time. We found a great deal on a Toyota Sienna. And now I'm in LOVE! I don't care how I look driving down the road. I am comfortable. The power sliding doors allow me to get my kids in and out easily (even with a bag of groceries in my other hand....I just have to push a button for them to open on their own). The van sits lower to the ground so Jack can crawl into the vehicle on his own. There are about 50 cupholders in case us and all our friends and neighbors get the urge to go to Sonic during happy hour. There's a little mommy-watch-my-kids rearview mirror (like you find on a school bus) so I can tell if Jack's causing trouble in the back. There's is all kinds of storage space/cubbies for Jack to hid his hippo, Henry. The back has ample room for our double stroller plus luggage. There's a DVD player with wireless headphones so Jack can watch the movie 'Cars' for the 100th time (but we don't have to). And to top it all off, it gets better gas mileage than the crossover. It's a good fit for us and one I would highly recommend to anyone with more than one child, especially if they are little. Little kids just have lots of stuff and that stuff takes up space. I've definately got all the space I could need with our new wheels and I'm okay looking a little less hip driving down the road.

Three Months Old

We're still working on head control so she can't tolerate the Bumbo for long...but I think eventually it will be a hit.

Goofy Grin

Caroline is three months old! I can't believe it. Seems like these last three months have been a blur. It's hard being a mom of two and working full time but with the help of my WONDERFUL husband, family, and friends, we have survived 3 months!!

Caroline has been busy these past three months. She's growing like a weed, despite her reflux. It's odd to think she's almost outgrown all her 3-6 month clothes (mainly in length).  She loves to chatter, smile, chew on her hands, take a bath, stare at her brother, and look in the mirror. She does not like sleeping, being left alone in a room, or being undressed. She's spitting up everywhere these days which is pretty disgusting (Jack was not a spitter) but I'm learning how to deal with the permanent smell of formula on my clothes and am thankful for Oxi Clean.

Jack is handling his big brother duties well. I think he's finally adjusted to the idea of sharing mom (it was hard at first). He never lets me leave the house without Caroline's essentials (or what he thinks are the essential house-leaving items). She must have a blanket, bottle, pacifier, and stuffed animal before we can go anywhere (these are his rules, not mine). And because he's a bit OCD he double-checks prior to leaving to make sure all items are present and accounted for. He's a pretty good little helper. 

Chatterbox

Caroline loves to chatter. She's been doing it for a while now but one of her favorite things to talk to is this little stuffed lion. She'll talk his head off. She also loves company and does not like being alone in a room. We have a future socialite on our hands.

Blog Makeover

It's been a long time coming but finally the blog has been redesigned and I love it. Thanks to Playful Pickles Designs for the new look!

Redemption Video

The last video we posted of Caroline was pretty unbecoming of her - so this is a redemption post. 

Fun with Grandma and Grandpa

My folks were in town for the weekend and it was WONDERFUL! Nathan and I needed their support. They even watched the kids one night so we could go out. It was so nice. Anyway, Caroline loved some new people to entertain and Jack always enjoys time with them so it was just a great weekend. I thought about driving past the airport when it was time for them to leave so they missed their flight...but figured that probably wasn't a very nice idea.

Halloween Boycott

One of her super powers is seeing cross-eyed.

So, Halloween was a bust this year...again. Not sure if ya'll remember but last year Jack was sick on Halloween. We stuffed him in his elephant costume long enough to take 2 pictures and then took it off. Well, this year was a repeat. He had a horrible viral infection (and is actually still recovering) with fever blisters all over his tongue, gums, and lips. It was miserable. So, needless to say he did not feel like dressing like Batman - even for a picture. My hope is that one day I can put them back in their costumes for a group photo even though Halloween is over. I thought the whole 'Justice League' theme was good - but Wonder Woman was flying solo with the costumage. Jack did go trick-o-treating in his shorts and t-shirt with some friends. He actually liked it for the first 30 minutes until he realized that his mouth hurt. I'm optimistic about next Halloween...

Arrested Development: The Party

Big Franklin (Shane) and little Franklin (Caroline)

George Michael, Ann Veal and Franklin

We have lots of friends who are big fans of Arrested Development. Some of our friends (Shane and Sylvia) thought it would be a good idea to have a A.D. themed Halloween party. Everyone was in the spirit, dressing like characters - except my super serious son. Frozen bananas were even served..

Just a Swingin'

Caroline doesn't like her swing much but she is somewhat entertained by the moving stars.

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun

I love Baby Legs (legwarmers) but Nathan thinks they are way too 1980s. 

Jack's Pumpkin

Mr. Pumpkinhead. Stickers by Jack.