Mendoza Moments

St. Pete Week

2011-07-27T12:33:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately, Kad's dad's health was very poor, and we made an unexpected trip to St. Pete to visit. (Thank you, God, that his health has greatly improved since then-mid May!). The kids and I spent a lot of the time at the condo (kids not allowed in area of hospital), but Kad was able to spend a lot of time w/ his family. We did get to see family some, and spend some time at the pool & beach. Overall, an emotional trip...but we made it a good one.

Kruz's first time running in the sand

Not so sure about the incoming waves!

All. Time. Favorite.

World's best daddy. For sure.

Feeling old as I think that Jeremiah & Jessica weren't much bigger than G & Kruz here when I met them!

Little Cubans eating Cubans! Yum...

We love you, Abuelo/Papi!

They threw a surprise 3rd bday for Gabriella!!

Running back and forth from the ocean to the sandcastle for water...SO fun!

Munchkins munchin' lunch:

My perfect lil family:

May 2011

May Madness

2011-07-26T18:04:00.000-07:00

I've purposely not devoted a lot of time to this blog. Although I do enjoy it...(and enjoy reading others' even more!), I've chosen to spend my time doing other things. I need more hours in the day! Don't we all? I so admire those of you who can maintain your blogs amazingly...don't know how you do it! So, anyway, that's my explanation for A) This being months late, B) There being way fewer pics than I used to have. Yes, I know I still have a ton! ha. and C) Little organization...they are all mashed together. But you get the picture, right? Busy, happy, blessed? ;)

Almost 3 years old!

They are 'riding' the farm. Kruz will ride anything.

She wanted to carry him.

Hugs

We love the playground at the Zoo!

I actually like this family pic of our day at the Zoo

Happy Mother's Day to me!

Mother's Day brunch at G's 'school' (once a wk mother's morning out):

Guess who LOVES chili?!?!

They SO love when Daddy gets home!

Playtime w/ the cousins:

Sweetest snoozer:

Gabriella LOVES gymnastics! And for almost 3 yrs old, she's pretty good at it!

A little sibling playtime afterwards: Kruz loved the pit, would run and jump in w/ no fear!

Shocker. Yeah right.

We love that Popi, Noni, & Uncle Cam came too!

NOTL Canada- Spring 2011

2011-07-26T11:51:00.000-07:00

Just a few photos from my trip w/ the babies to visit Noni & Popi in Canada. And when I say a few, this is down from like 400! We had a great trip! Perfect weather, so much fun, and great 'bonding' time w/ the kids & my parents.

Skipping to April...

2011-05-14T18:19:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I'm not even going to try to catch up on missed pics from the past. But, I felt the urge to post some from the month of April. Believe it or not, I just picked a 'few' of my favorites! Haha!

My mini- artist loves to paint!

Gosh, I think she's gorgeous.

We are often given confused looks and asked if they are twins. ;)

She loves cooking w/ Mommy. The slowcooker is our favorite.

I can't count the amount of times we have strangers comment, "He is the HAPPIEST baby!" And they are right.

Chillin' at the park

Winning smile

I could just eat him up.

Silly faces.

Stinker face.

Sidewalk chalk time.

First Easter Celebration w/ the family. Besos for Daddy.

Daddy's MiniGolfer

Noni w/ her handmade tutus for her 4 granddaughters! Their fashion debut. ;)

First Egghunt. Go, Kruz!

With her cute little find.

Happy Easter from the Mendozas!

The Yeomendozas ;)

Chugga chugga, choo choo!

Indoor picnic snack...one of their favorites.

Could he be any cuter? Mommy thinks not! =)

Squeezably cute, right?

G's Easter Party at 'school.' She loves going w/ her cousin Laney!

Her class

Showing Mommy how she plays on the school playground.

Sassypants doesn't want her pic taken as we literally 'colored' our Easter eggs this year.

Easter egg hunt #3:

Both TERRIFIED, trembling, crying, and clinging. Why you ask? Note the Easter Bunny in the background! LOL

Gabriella & her pal Lucy

Avery & Lil G are buds

The Easter baskets!

Happy actual Easter!

Baking yummy Easter cookies w/ Mommy

Easter babies!

Easter egg hunt #4 w/ some friends. Note that Kruz is 'naked baby' b/c he soaked himself at the fun sand/water table after lunch.

She's a pro by now!

Buddies: Kruz, Lucy, Gabriella

They both LOVE bathtime!

Hope you enjoyed a few flashes of a Mendoza April!

Kruz's Modeling Pics!

2011-03-10T20:42:00.000-08:00

Yeah, so I know I 'retired' this blog for a bit, but I couldn't help posting this exciting news. Back in October, Kruz landed a modeling job and did a photo shoot with Carter's clothing (which we actually DO love). If you've been following, I mentioned it a while back. We never saw the final photos, nor the ad that was sent out to over 1/2 million homes across America. How strange to think these pics were out there of our son, and we may never see them (we weren't given a copy). As a proud mama would, I searched for them, but to no avail. Then, out of the blue, guess who's cute dimples & big smiles show up on Carter's official Facebook page? Yep, our Kruz! Carter's puts out photos called "This or That Thursdays" and Kruz was featured today! We were totally shocked and excited. Thanks to a couple of friends that were on the look out for us, we found him. *Funny enough, I prayed that one day God would let me see the pictures. He cares about the little things in my life, and I'm so thankful for that. =) Love this sweet, happy baby! Way to go, Kruzy Boy!

The link to Carter's FB page. You can find him in 'Wall Photos' or tagged photos running across the top.
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/carters

The actual link to his posted pics.
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/photo.php?fbid=10150107720806587&set=a.327964221586.160796.182219886586&comments

And here they are (finally!):

Retired? Or Just Tired?

2011-02-16T13:24:00.000-08:00

Hey friends,

I think I'm 'retiring' this blog for a while. I am balancing too many things right now. Gabriella is 2 1/2, Kruz just turned 1 yesterday, and I'm really, really busy. Staying home w/ them is the most amazing 'job' I could imagine- I'm loving it! I also have "The Painted Peach," which I do on the side, as well as journaling for the kids, scrapbooking their first year, and of course dabbling in photography. Those are my much needed artsy 'hobbies.' I'm also (attempting) working out. Not to mention playdates, gymnastics, and other fun. Oh, and keep a house. Also noted: my husband works a lot. A LOT. (So, the kids and I are attached pretty much 24/7). In fact, he seems to work all the time- days, nights, weekends. So thankful for his willingness and hardwork in doing so! Also thankful for God's provision so that I can stay home with the babies. That being said, I feel the need to intentionally 'drop a ball,' and I guess this is it. This goes against everything in me (leaving something 'unfinished'), but I will try. Most of you catch up w/ Facebook anyhow, so I will hope to 'see' you there!

~Thanks for following...

Peaches

The Sweetest Sleep

2011-02-14T19:49:00.000-08:00

Words can't express how much I love this baby.

Before Church Pic...Not Happening

2011-02-14T19:47:00.000-08:00

Picking & Decorating the Perfect Tree

2011-02-14T19:42:00.000-08:00

We had a really fun day 'tree hunting.' We went out to find Kruz's first Christmas tree. Then, after a lunch out together, we drove home to set it up. Finally, it was time to decorate! Unfortunately, these pictures got out of order...sorry!

We found it!

Helping Daddy ;)

This is on the way to find the tree...Kruz was cracking us up...just chillin' in his 'boggin.

Who needs to see, right?

Before the search:

First tree hunt for Kruzy Boy!

Having a blast w/ my babies:

Time to set up. G thinks Daddy may need her assistance...

Our babies:

Hmm, let's see here...

Fun, fun girl!

Pretty excited about the tree!

Helping Daddy decorate...

LOVE this:

Sippin', Surprises, & Mommy's Jammies

2011-02-07T11:39:00.000-08:00

Mommy brought us a few surprises she got on sale. Here we are trying them out:

She got these too. We insisted on wearing them! (Well, G insisted on both 'babies' trying them on, haha)

Love this!

Trying on Mommy's Christmas Jammies:

{Smile}

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-02-07T11:30:00.000-08:00

Happy Thankgiving, love the Mendozas!

Kruz's First:

Gabriella enjoying dinner:

Uncle Cam's Buddy:

Forget tomorrow's sales!

Family pic:

Grammy & Pops w/ their great grandchildren:

Grammy, Pops, their grandchildren & great grandchildren:

Singe That Turkey!

2011-02-07T11:24:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving morning, we went over to my Grandparents' house (G & K's Great Grandparents) for the annual 'turkey singing(?)'. All of the cousins were there, except for Kruz, who was napping.

Pops, Grammy, Brady, Colby, Nikki, Gabriella, Laney, Stephen, & Cade

"The girls"

Good job, G!

One of Gabriella's favorite thing at Grammy/Pops' house: their 'tick tock clock' which chimes every hour.

Cards start at an early age ;)

Best buds: Laney & Gabriella

Noni & Gabriella

Now, to get ready for Thanksgiving evening...

Park Play

2011-01-29T12:06:00.000-08:00

What could make a beautiful November day at the park/playground even better? Add friends, of course!

...and a picnic lunch:

"the girls"

I didn't realize I had such a 'big girl' on my hands:

Sliding w/ Avery:

...and Addison too!

What fun. :)

Rockin' Docs

2011-01-28T12:33:00.000-08:00

I'm pretty sure no one has ever looked this cute in their Mommy's DocMartins before:

Yes, she IS posing in front of a mirror. Haha, love it!

Baby Jammies

2011-01-26T12:39:00.000-08:00

Oooh, how I adore these babies...and their jammies...and this moment caught on 'film.'

Seriously in love.

This is What I'm Talking About!

2011-01-26T12:37:00.000-08:00

Yes! I got Mommy to give me food...real food...and I'm finally loving it! (9 months old here)

Sweet Girl

2011-01-25T12:07:00.000-08:00

Gosh, I love this little cutie!

Zoo Atlanta

2011-01-25T12:05:00.000-08:00

Family trip to Zoo Atlanta...Kruz's first!

Yes, it was cold. But somebody wouldn't keep his shoes & socks on. :/

Check out the guy in the front, on the right. Awesome!

Pigtails, Bubbles, & Parties

2011-01-24T19:31:00.000-08:00

Pigtails/Braids:

Bubbles:

Parties: (Cousin Laney's 2nd):

With Kruz's Great Grammy

...and Great Pops

Dig in, Bday Girl!

Delish!

Hangin' w/ Uncle Nic

Cutie Cuzs

A fun party requires a fun party outfit, don't ya think?

Nighttime 'milk' w/ Noni & Popi...how great is that?

Random November Cuteness

2011-01-24T19:23:00.000-08:00

Just some early November cuteness around the house. ;)

Ice cream break!

Don't you wear your fur boots around the house?

Choosing & wearing her headbands 'herself'

2 1/2 years old

Trying to help baby brother enjoy the view. I. Love. This.

Sweetness.

Halloween Festivities

2011-01-22T12:51:00.000-08:00

Halloween was really, really fun this year. Check out our festivities!

Sweet Siblings

Some 'pumpkin' art/gifts

Mommy, Daddy, G & Kruz headed to the local outdoor 'mall' for some Halloween fun:

Little Abby Cadabby from Sesame Street

Me w/ my little Elmo

With Great Grandma

The kids with (Great) Auntie V

Playing games at the church festival:

Hands are full...

Noni's feet hurt. So, we shared the wagon. ;)

"I'm sitting like Noni did!"

Early Halloween night: fun at the cousins' house!

Kruz (Elmo), Gabriella (Abby), Nikki (Ariel), & Laney (Minnie Mouse)= the cousins

A little wagon ride through the neighborhood...to the block party!

Later that night: trick or treating with friends!

L to R: Kruz, Gabriella, Avery, Paisley, Davis & Noah

Trick or Treat!

Two of the cutest little 'trick or treaters', Kruz & his best buddy, Noah

They're getting pretty good at this!

Yes!!

Tickle the shark!

So sorry, sweet Noah! Kruz really liked your dino costume!

With some of our very best friends: Gabriella, me, Kruz, Noah, Shannon, Davis, Rosie & Avery

The sweetest little buddies

Friends for sure

Pumpkin Farm #2 & Apple Orchard

2011-01-20T12:49:00.000-08:00

We had so much fun on our family adventure to another Pumpkin Farm & Apple Orchard.

Love, love it.

Giant pumpkins!

One of my favorites!

I LOVE my babies!!

Her idea: fix his 'hawk.

Picking a pumpkin 'her size'

She came back w/ one for her and one for Kruz....so sweet!

'Milking' a cow

Holding a little chick

Feeding a calf

Swingin' w/ Daddy

Heart-melter.

Rope swing...so fun!

Going through our freshly picked apples! MUTSU! If you haven't tried them, you have to. The perfect apple.

Pumpkin Farm #1

2011-01-20T11:58:00.000-08:00

I love, love, love Fall. So, I really try to do 'all things fall' w/ the kids during the season. Hence, our first adventure to a pumpkin farm. Daddy had to work, but we took Noni & had a blast!

Whew! That's a lot of pumpkins.

Just the Right Light

2011-01-20T11:49:00.000-08:00

You may have noticed. I'm pretty crazy about this green eyed girl.

Family Park Day

2011-01-19T11:54:00.000-08:00

One day in October, we got to spend a day as a family at a local park. We had so much fun, and took lots of pictures to document. These are, in fact, some of my FAVORITE pictures (that's why I've included so many!) Love it when Daddy isn't showing houses EVERY weekend day! =)

Playing chase. Love it.

Sweetest boy in the world.

Crap. Now what?

Possibly all time favorite picture of my daughter.

Stories With Daddy

2011-01-19T11:41:00.000-08:00

Gabriella loves books, and if you follow, you already know that.

What's better than before bedtime story with Daddy? Not much.

The sweetest!

Skinny Jeans. Size 2T.

2011-01-19T11:38:00.000-08:00

Skinny jeans are 'in,' right? Yeah, maybe for little G, but certainly not for me! ;)

Outfits made complete with a pair of converse. If only Mommy could be so stylish. ;)

Don't worry. She didn't sit on him. Just wanted to stand there. Ah!

Wish We Got Paid For This ;)

2011-01-19T11:34:00.000-08:00

Mid October 2010. Hanging in the living room. Kruz 8 months, Gabriella 28 months.

Sweet big sis

This is what I wish we got paid for: Huggies advertising! hahaha

My handsome little baby boy

Annual Apple Festival

2011-01-19T11:26:00.000-08:00

I know, it's January, and I'm posting about Fall apples. That's what happens when you run out of photo storage! haha. Here are some pictures from one of our absolute favorite things to do: Go to the N. GA apple festival. Short trip, great weather, delicious food, fresh apples, crafts, and fun things for the kids. I look forward to this every year. :)

Our buddies, the Stalcups, went w/ us. Their cute Lucy is on the left- 6 wks older than Kruz.

G was thrilled to get to ride a pony with Daddy. Love these pictures!

The Stalcup Family

These are heavy apples, Mommy!

Apple festivals can wear a guy out! Kruz is probably almost 8 months, to the day, here.

Happy 4th Bday, Cousin Nikki

2011-01-19T11:18:00.000-08:00

My niece/the kids' cousin, Nikki, turned 4 in October, and had a super cute Minnie Mouse party. A few pics of the celebration:

Noni w/ Kruzy Boy

Cousins Laney & Gabriella are so sweet

Popi & Lil G

The sweet birthday girl

Sibs

2011-01-19T11:15:00.000-08:00

Taken in the beginning of October 2010. Let's start there in the catching up process. ;)

Hangin' in Sissy's crib

We're BACK!!!!

2011-01-08T13:12:00.000-08:00

So, remember that we ran out of photo storage space a while back? Well, I stopped blogging then. Good timing w/ the busyness of the holidays, etc. That said, I am like 2 months behind! I won't add near as many pics as I have in the past (although I just purchased TONS of space for $5) to catch up, but stay posted for more pics for our Nov/Dec/Jan fun! Here are just a few taken from one of our SNOW days! ;)

No More Pictures?!

2010-11-13T13:20:00.000-08:00

Well, who knew you could run out of 'free photo storage' on blogs?! Not me. So, I was in the middle of updating this blog, as well as "The Painted Peach" http://thepaintedpeaches.blogspot.com/ when I was notified I had no more photo room! :( So, I guess I'm going to have to give in and purchase more, rather than delete stuff. So, until I can find the time to do that, here is a pictureless post.

Some updates (to take the place of pics?):

* Kruz (lil flirt), said 'bye bye' for the first time today! It was SO cute. I couldn't believe it. And guess what? It wasn't to Mommy or Daddy or Noni or Popi... Nope. It was to the waitress at the bbq restaurant we ate at for lunch. Hilarious. I made sure she knew what a big deal that was! Ha!
* Kruz is standing on his own for a couple of seconds at a time (w/o holding onto anything). Everyone seems to think he'll we walking in no time. Yikes! ;)
* Today is Kruzy Boy's 9 month 'birthday'! (same as my niece, Laney's, 2 year old bday!)
* Kruzy is going thru a difficult napping time lately. Doesn't want to fall asleep on his own, though we still make him. Meanies. It's pretty pitiful though. :(
* A couple of days ago, he learned to feed hiimself by pinching little bits of food (mostly puffs) and getting it in his mouth. We make a huge mess, but he LOVES it!

* Gabriella is still little miss smarty pants. Impressing us several times a day w/ the things she says. I think it's pretty remarkable, considering she's not even 2 1/2 yet! Crazy conversations we have, using huge words, and deep thoughts. The things that she infers, picks up on, expresses...blow me away. Often I look at Kad or my mom, and we are like "Where in the world did she get that?" haha.
* G is loving puzzles lately- doing them herself of course (no help, thanks anyway). She is loving to color and trying to write her letters. She can do a few. She doesn't want me to do it for her, she just wants to try on her own.
* Gabriella is also little miss fashionista. She loves accessorizing herself w/ headbands, bracelets, necklaces, purses, and of course her newest favorite furry boots! She tells me when things match or don't....and you know, she's right!! Oh, and I blame all of this on Noni. Mommy is not the pink frilly type.
* Girl knows how to hit of softball of a tee...you go girl! Yeah, that one was from Mommy. ;)
* Most hilarious 'thing' lately: bathroom conversation. I mean, hysterical. Maybe TMI for the internet (Sorry. Don't read if you don't want to), but it's too funny not to share. She tells us when she needs to go, so of course she sits on the potty and goes. Well, whenever we're at a public restroom (too often probably : / ), she walks in and says "What's that Gabriella smells?!" and repeats this over and over. Ahh! Yes, there is usually someone in the next stall. I mean, what do I say?? "Shhh.." just doesn't cut it. Girl wants an answer. Next up, her ideas about 'poopy.' Well, she'll be trying to go and say something like the following: "It's not working. It doesn't want to come out of its home. It's in bed. It's too dark. Oh, now it's out of its home. That's better." NOOO idea where this came from. No one has ever said anything like that to her (atleast that I'm aware of!). She just has an imagination...and it's so hard to keep a straight face.

Guess that's all for now. Maybe I'll buy some pic space soon. :)

Sweatsuits & Smiles

2010-11-08T13:23:00.000-08:00

Yes, still loving the weather. And the fact I get to wrap the babies in extra snuggly clothes. And this means extra squeezes from Mommy.

Joined at the lip. Yeah, he and paci go pretty much everywhere together.

Real Food is for the Birds!

2010-11-08T13:22:00.000-08:00

Okay, so it may look like you guys enjoy 'real' table food, but I gotta know why!? This stuff is for the birds.

Daddy's trying to talk me into it...

Gag. As if you needed me to explain.

Diapers & Desserts

2010-11-08T13:21:00.000-08:00

I'm pretty psyched. In just a few weeks, I'm getting a new niece! My brother Nic, and his wife, Suzette, are expecting their 3rd girl in Dec. Yay, me! Here's a little party we had to celebrate.

Bustin' Out the Fall Attire

2010-11-08T13:20:00.000-08:00

Oh, did I mention that I love, love, love fall?!?!? Pretty excited to add on the layers when it got cold enough...

Tennessee Visit

2010-11-08T13:19:00.000-08:00

Kad and I (okay, mostly I) love heading up to our alma mater (where we met and fell in love after a long chase- sorry, baby) to visit, especially in the gorgeous fall! I think we've been up every year since we graduated. This was Kruz's first visit.

Baby shower in TN for a sweet couple of friends, Nick & Bethany. Eagerly waiting their baby girl's arrival in Dec!

G finally got to meet her friend, Greyson! His mom and I have gotten 'internet' close since they've been born. :) They were born on a few days apart, and have met many milestones together! So sweet!

Funny to think that we went to college together, and now have little ones that can play together!

Loved her first carousel!

7 Months...and the Camera Dies...

2010-11-08T13:15:00.000-08:00

Mommy tries to get 'portraits' every 3rd month for the first year, then twice a year after that. Then, I try to snap my own pics on the other months. This is Kruz's 7 mo. shots. Notice how there are 3? Yeah, camera died. Sorry bud!

GA Girl & Lil Manning

2010-11-08T13:13:00.000-08:00

Before Halloween, our chiropractor's office had one of their many special dress up days. G went as a GA fan & Kruz as a little Manning. ;)

Melts my heart. Oh, and seriously, who needs pants?

Cooking, Playing, & Pulling Up

2010-11-08T13:12:00.000-08:00

6 months and big stuff. Yeah, he's pulling up. A lot.

Sweetest little girl you'll ever meet.

Natural athlete? I'd say it's in his genes.

Funny

"He needs a paci."

They cook way more than Mommy does. Hmm...

Georgia Fans!

2010-11-08T13:10:00.000-08:00

Go, Georgia!!

Possibly the cutest little fans ever?? ;)

Kruz, Gabriella, & cousins Nikki & Laney- love this!!

Cracks me up every time I see this.

"The guys"

Next up: Shoe modeling? haha

Mommy's gorgeous boy

Gorman Guys

2010-11-08T13:09:00.000-08:00

I love my sweet friend, Shannon, and her adorable, sweet boys! And I especially love our playdates. :)

Noah & Kruz just hanging out

Messes are the best!

Possibly my favorite ever of them! Aren't they sweet?!

Haha, oops! Sometimes there's a thing called 'too much.' ;)

Krawling

2010-11-08T13:07:00.000-08:00

So, Gabriella like never crawled. And she didn't really walk on her own until 14 mo. When she did though, she almost never fell. Kruz is 6 mo. here, and crawling!! Not only that, but bear crawling. Strong little guy!

Playdate with Kate

2010-11-08T13:06:00.000-08:00

My first roommate in college was my buddy, Kim. She left after a couple of years and finished school in NY. I have missed her greatly! We haven't seen each other in a long time, but she's super amazing at staying in touch and sending cards and gifts. Here are pictures of us finally getting to meet each other's kids!

Kate & Gabriella were instant buddies. :)

Erik, Kim & Kate: Sweet, cute family!

I hope it's not near as long before we see each other again!

Kruz's Job

2010-11-02T21:04:00.000-07:00

Proud of you, little brother!!

Hey guys! So, yeah, I'm WAY behind on blogging, but no time to catch up now....sorry! As most of you know, I have a small art 'business,' The Painted Peach. You can check me out at http://thepaintedpeaches.blogspot.com/. I'm super busy getting ready for my debut art show this weekend. So, I'll try to catch up soon!

Anyways, wanted to follow up w/ the last post about Kruz's job. We got a call from the agency, and Carters DID choose Kruz as their 'boy' model for the advertisement! His picture will be used and sent out on the advertisement to over 1/2 million mailboxes across America. Exciting! It's going to be sent to people on the "Carter's Celebration Club" list. I signed up the day of the photo shoot, in hopes it would be his picture in our box, hahaha! Well, I was told that it would be sent yesterday, but haven't received it yet. I'm expecting it this week, but we'll see! So, if you or a parent/friend, etc are a member, please look for the ad...I'd love a copy!! :) He is in a pair of blue jammies. So, just wanted to share our exciting news.

Stay 'tuned' for some great fall pics!!

Carters

2010-10-07T20:28:00.000-07:00

Much cuter than Zoolander:

I'm way behind on posting pics and blogging, but that will come in time. Our life is crazy busy right now...so much going on. Kad's real estate work has picked up majorly over the last couple of weeks (praise God!), but whoa! All this, plus October is so wonderful in Georgia, and being the fall-loving, busy-bee that I am, I'm planning something 'festive' to do every week, every weekend... Awesome weather, so lots of time outside! I'm rambling and tired, so I'll get to the point. I sent in pics of the little ones to a local agency. Kruz got a call, and we went for a go-see for a Carters ad. Kruz got the job, so we got called to go in the next morning! So exciting. Made significantly more money than the other little jobs he's done (main reason for doing this: college money/savings for the kids). He did awesome at the shoot, incredibly happy, smiley, personable...and the workers remarked how much he loved the camera (oops!). They also loved his little 'hawk from day one, but we had to do the 'natural' look for the actual shoot, since he was 'modeling' jammies. He and two other boys were photographed (and only one will actually make it to print). We haven't heard yet, but will keep you posted. It was a fun experience regardless. :) Kad calls him his little Zoolander. Silly boys.

Family Time!

2010-09-28T07:54:00.000-07:00

Some family fun at Noni & Popi's house:

A tricycle inside? Sure.

"Popi, he's too little."

Tea party!

Kruz & Uncle Cam just chillin'

Sloppy Smooches

2010-09-27T17:31:00.000-07:00

Beware: Below are some of the cutest, sweetest, sloppiest sibling kisses!

Uh oh, Sissy loves me A LOT!

(I think Kruz may be using her chin as a teether here :/)

How cute is this? Look at his little finger!

C'mon- let's play!

Oopsy, Kruzy Boy let go.

Is it so wrong I let them do this? I mean, I think it's so stinkin' cute. :) I know my kids will absolutely hate me when they're older, but oh well!

Sittin' Pretty (or Handsome)

2010-09-26T12:15:00.000-07:00

Yep, I'm sittin'...

Our new meal placements: Kruz moved into G's highchair, while she gets to climb into her own 'big girl booster'...and strap herself in...yes!

And you guessed it...Mom's in the middle. Kinda like 'monkey in the middle'. Yeah, I feel that way sometimes.

...on a bus:

...on Popi's lap during breakfast out:

(our very, very loud breakfast out. Don't know that he's been back since- ha!)

...on our cousins' couch. (This is mid wrestling match just fyi)

...in the double stroller:

...with Mommy at a festival in the park...so fun!

Park It

2010-09-26T11:30:00.000-07:00

A couple of days at the park. Note Georgia weather..these are probably taken one week apart. ;)

Different park- one that G and I love:

"Ta da!"

"Awesome!"

These things are as big as Gabriella...and hungry...so we sorta kinda ran away. ;)

My Lil Characters

2010-09-08T17:11:00.000-07:00

Random happenings/sayings from my little ones: (**Mostly for documentation/my memory...but maybe you'll enjoy reading)

* I kept trying to rush Gabriella to finish eating (she was picking at her food and taking forever...stalling I think). She pulled her plate back, and with a smirk, said to me, "Leave it alone." Rascal!!

* We had just driven home and were parked, about to get out. G's new fav song by Justin Bieber (I know, right?!) was on, so she didn't want to get out and wanted me to leave the car on so she could hear the rest of the song. I was looking back at her from the driver seat, telling her let's go, when she said to me, "Turn your face around. Like this." (as she pushed her own cheek) WHAT?!

* Earlier today she stretched herself out...feet on the coffee table (not allowed, never done before) and back on the sofa, suspended in air. I was like "What are you doing?!" She said, "Just like Mommy." I looked down, and sure enough, I was leaning back on the couch w/ feet on the table. Hilarious.

* Today, Gabriella was acting a little jealous of Mommy's attn on Kruz (see below). I decided she and I needed an impromptu date night tonight! Yes! We went out for a quick bite, a walk, and some ice cream...it was great! She and I both loved it. :) I asked her when we got home, "Who did you go on a date with tonight?" She said, "Ice cream."

* Earlier today, the kids and I were playing on the floor. G saw a glimpse of my tummy, and said (b/c she's fascinated w/ boo boos!!!), "What's that?" pointing. I said, "Marks" (Trying to avoid her knowing...and publically using...the words "Stretch marks"! I thought she'd ooh and aah and say 'yucky' or 'boo boo' or something of the sort. No. She smiled and sweetly said, "I LOVE them, Mommy!" and kissed them. I was in shock. I mean, huh?

This girl never ceases to surprise me. Every day is a new adventure. I love it.

* I also can't get over how she has such 'grown up' conversations (often w/o a breath in between! : / ) The past couple of days, I realized that she was using "because" correctly. Probably not a big deal...it just surprised me.

* Poor sweet girl. She is so much like Mommy in some ways (Opposite in others, such as loving the spotlight. No thanks.). Unfortunately, one of the ways we're similar is b/c although I'd consider both of us 'coordinated' individuals, she has inherited my clumsy gene. I mean, she is forever running into stuff, bumping her head, cutting corners too short, falling, you name it. Sorry baby girl. Unlike me, who acted as though this sort of thing was no big deal when it would happen to me as a kid (shake it off, don't cry...), she cries, droops, and needs ice... and talks about each boo boo for weeks. Yes, she remembers them all. I mean, really?

As for little man...

* Kruz is 6 1/2 months old...and as of yesterday, CRAWLING! I mean, he's not even super great at sitting up, but he is all over the place! Go, go, go. He wants to be put down and left to explore. Sliding, crawling, scooting, and inching his way all over the room...getting into everything. He's so adorable when he does this, I can't even explain. (Note to self: take video! Note to self again: charge video camera!) It's really been a fun couple of days. I'm pretty sure he's just warming up...breaking Mom in easy. ;) Thanks, Kruzy.

* On the same note, yesterday he barely began little crawl movements, today I think it's safe to say he's 'crawling.' However, by this evening, he was getting around, not on hands and knees, but on hands and FEET! So strong. Seriously doing like a 'downward dog' move...on the go. It was really funny. He kept doing it. Must video that one too. ;)

* Don't remember if I mentioned, but Kruz is seriously and consistantly sleeping THRU the night!! Night bottle around 7:15-8:00ish, and morning one around 6;00-7:30 am. Supremely awesome. Also, he takes btwn 2-4 naps (short) throughout the day. Lately, just taking him in his room makes him start to cry. Poor guy has way too much movin' and groovin' around the house to pause for a nap.

Love my sweet babies. Just thought I'd share some new thoughts and observations. Oh, and today was my official LAST day of work. I'm now a stay at home mom!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Kruz's Baby Dedication

2010-09-04T12:34:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, August 29th, we had Kruz dedicated at church. It was such a special day for us. We were so thankful to the friends and family that were able to come. Here are some pictures of our celebration. We are so grateful to the Lord for giving us our baby...he is such a blessing to our lives. What a joy! *Note that Kad's family lives out of state, and my parents and little brother were in the hospital for Cam's emergency appendectimy (sp?). :(

Pastor Jason Bolin dedicated Kruz on stage at church. He had the congregation say, "Hey, Kruz," and when they did, he turned and looked...it was really funny. So they did it again. It was nice also, because a few of our friends were having their babies dedicated at the same time!

The Heat's Keeping Us In...

2010-09-04T11:45:00.000-07:00

...but it can't keep us from having fun!

Here are some random pictures of us hanging out indoors to escape the heat and humidity!

Learning to play "hop'cotch", as G says.

She decided to use HER dish and spoon from HER kitchen to have her snack. :)

Loving art time! And, Mommy finally figured an art shirt my be a good idea. Don't tell Daddy...it's his. :)

I love these two pictures! She said she's practicing gymnastics. Silly, silly!

Mommy is slightly jealous of these lashes:

"I'm gonna get you, Sissy!"

Too dangerous for Mommy's comfort:

So sweet to read together. They really are best buds already.

Gabriella running from Mommy. Also, "ta da!" after putting the puzzle matches together (*please note the black velvet dress shoes she just HAD to wear with her white onesie).

Some of my favorites. Teaching Kruzy to 'read':

All that fun calls for a nap, don't ya think?

Going Green (to Church Anyway)

2010-09-03T13:59:00.000-07:00

Yes, BBQ! No, Giraffe!

2010-09-03T13:21:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I was SO excited about going to the BBQ Festival nearby. I had never been (shocker), but couldn't imagine having good ole southern barbeque ALL around. How to choose what to eat? Where to start? Oh, the possiblity. I even dragged Kad along...and the kiddies. G loves bbq like her mommy. Noni & Popi were there too. It rained periodically...a lot. It was hot, and humid, and oh-so-Georgia sticky, but it was so worth it!

Gabriella saw a man dressed as a giraffe, and was fine until she and Noni walked up to him (to get something he was passing out), and he leaned down. She totally freaked out, shaking and crying hysterically! This is not like her, so we were pretty surprised. Though I felt bad, it was hard not to laugh! Aw, poor thing, and we didn't even get the treat he was handing out. This was the very beginning of the festival, so the entire time, she kept asking about the giraffe, and looking around. :( She kept saying, "I no like giraffe! He 'cared me." I guess she needed reassurance, b/c she kept repeating us, "The giraffe is gone. I don't have to see him anymore." We distracted her right away by letting her get her face painted for the first time.

Little Kruz loves being in the stroller, and just chilled the whole time:

(Note his foot in the pic below. We were cracking up.)

The orange balloon Gabriella got to pick when she got her face painted. It's her fav color, and she loved it...until Popi pointed out that the giraffe's picture is on it! Popi!

A day of 'firsts.' Here she is enjoying her first piece of corn on the cob. I'll let you guess by the pictures whether she liked it or not:

Please don't drop my sweet baby on his head:

I love festivals. I love public events (strange?). I love fall. I love barbeque. I love my family. So, I guess you could say, I loved this day!

Our Antics 'Round the House

2010-09-03T13:02:00.000-07:00

Some random stuff from our days:

Some for me...

...and some for baby.

"Brother needs a blanky" (whether he wants one or not!)

"This is how you crawl, buddy."

She wanted him to stand on his head.

"He needs a teether. Make his gums feel better. Make him get teeth."

'Holding brother' didn't work out as planned!

And, my absolute favorite! I am amazed that I get to be the one to spend my days (and nights) caring for, and loving these two babies. I don't deserve them, but I will receive them as a blessing.

I'm blessed beyond belief.

Storytime With Daddy

2010-09-03T12:50:00.000-07:00

Swingin', Shoppin', and Wakin' Up

2010-09-03T12:46:00.000-07:00

We stay busy on a normal day:

Swingin':

Shoppin':

Wakin' Up:

Just another day...

Six Month Portraits

2010-09-03T12:38:00.000-07:00

We took Kruz to have his 6 month portraits made...and of course we got some of he and his big sis!

Favorite:

G gets this fake smile from her Daddy!:

We tried for a long time to get this pose down...and Kruz wasn't having it...Ha!:

Sweetness!

And the winning picture is....

I love these babies...and they're pretty crazy about each other too!

Things I'm Excited About

2010-09-01T14:47:00.000-07:00

1. Having faith that God will provide for us, just like He always does.

2. That Kruz likes carrots, b/c I went overboard w/ the baby food making!

3. Gabriella is fitting into some of the same clothes she wore last fall!

4. Kruz is sleeping through the night!

5. This week's high temperatures are in the 80's. That means Fall (aka: my-by-far-favorite-season) is approaching!

6. I'm now a Stay-at-home Mommy! I can't imagine a better job:

6 Month Check Up

2010-08-27T11:53:00.000-07:00

I took the kids to Kruz's 6 mo. check up today, although he's almost 6 1/2 months.

Stats:
Weight: 17.12 lbs (40%)
Height: 25.5 in. (25%)
Head: 43 cm (50%)
*Note: These are almost identical to Gabriella's 9 month stats.

Our check up experience: Kruz was full of smiles...but also full of WIGGLES! Oh my, I got such a great workout. Unfortunately, I was in the waiting room for 45 mins, alone w/ the two of them, before we even went back. Kruz was such a squirmy worm, it's almost impossible to hold onto him sometimes. I definitely did NOT want to put him down on the nasty pediatrician waiting room floor...yuck. So, I held him...and bounced him, and 'tossed' him up, and tickled him, and anything else you could think of. Once we got into the room, Gabriella was a champ of course, just chillin', sitting perfectly still, eating a snack...the whole time. (Did I mention I love that girl?! haha!) Kruz ripped the paper lining the table to shreds. Literally, I had to find a piece big enough to lay him on by the time the doc got there. Oops. Check up went great, few shots (debated, but continued with them anyway; I feel good about the choice), and we were set to go. The doctor reassured me that he was eating and drinking enough, although he has dropped down in percentages. Yay. :) On our way out, Gabriella talked to her 'friends' at the check out counter...they love her! They even gave her stickers for her...and her baby doll. Speaking of, during all of the squirming w/ toddler, baby, baby doll, diaper bag, paper work (you understand), baby doll lost her hat. Uh oh. Briefly looked for it, 'friends' reassured us they'd call if they found it. But I looked down at Gabriella, who so sadly said, "But baby's head is cold," and knew we had to search better. Off we went, back to the room; the nurse was emmerging wtih it in hand. Yay, she saved the day! Now baby's head won't be cold...since it is 95 degrees out. But that didn't matter; G's happiness did....and to her, Baby is real....and really cold.

Thank God for my healthy, happy babies. =) We are blessed.

Today Talk

2010-08-24T19:07:00.000-07:00

Just some random, fun stuff from today:

First of all, Gabriella had gymnastics today, and is getting so good! She hung on the bar, brought her feet all the way up to the bar, w/ perfectly straight legs and stayed that way-by herself- for so long! I couldn't believe it. Geez, I need to try that. Abs of steel, here I come! (yeah right)

Kruz was fussing a bit in his pack n play, while G was eating. I was in the kitchen, so she said (as if I couldn't hear him), "Mommy, go check him and see if he's okay." Thanks, baby. She's so sweet and caring (and occassionally bossy...ha!). In the car today, she kept looking over and saying to him, "Hey, sweetie pie!"

I love a toddler's insight on things. I've taught her that her eyes are green (well, depending on the day, and the shirt, hazel, but didn't feel like explaining that one). So today, again in the car, she looks over at Kruz and says, "Mommy, my eyes are green. Kruz's are brown...and white." Wow, well I knew what she meant, but how do you explain that one? I tried a little...something like, "Well, you're right, but we're looking at the colored circle, the iris...it's brown..." etc. "So, his eyes are brown." "No, Mommy, they are brown AND white." What can I say? "You're right, Baby. They are."

I wrestle every day. I wrestle Kruz into his diapers...and into his clothes...depending on his mood. Sometimes he lays perfectly still and lets me change him. Other times, oh-my-gosh. I literally can't! I mean, I know he's 6 months old, but he's crazy strong, and crazy squirmy...and flexible! He just wants off, and down, and to be let go! Today, I just couldn't do it. I barely got the diaper on, but gave up on the clothes. Gabriella said, "Kruz is just gonna be naked baby?"

And here is a piece of today's conversation about a festival we went to a couple days ago. Background: at the festival, there was a man dressed in a giant giraffe costume, waving and greeting kids, handing out necklaces, etc. I though Gabriella would love him! So, as I was waiting in line for something, my mom took her over to 'meet' him and get a necklace a few feet away (girl likes some jewelry). She walked up to him, he looked down at her, offered a 'high five', she began shaking, and then...boom...TERRIFIED! Shaking and crying like crazy. What?! haha, it was pitiful, but hard not to laugh. She was really scared of him. No necklace, nothing. My mom picked her up and tried to soothe her. We thrust her into a chair to get her face painted....the distraction worked. However, she wouldn't let it go, and has talked about the "giraffe" ever since. *So, tonight, RANDOMLY in the middle of dinner: "I no like the giraffe. I no play with him. I no give him five. I cried. I hold Noni. He was so big. I no like his face. He's gone now." I mean, that was all like in one breath. Poor baby, I hope she stops thinking of this giraffe...she's still torn up about it!

1/2 a Year!

2010-08-20T12:12:00.000-07:00

Where has the time gone? Kruz is 6 months old! Here are some updates and thoughts:

* We go for his 6 mo. check up next week, so I'll post stats then. I'm guessing 17-18 lb? I don't know though. He just feels heavy to me! I am struggle to tote he and his carseat around. Once he's a little more 'advanced' at sitting up, I won't have this issue. (Side story: Today, we put Kruz in the front of the shopping cart with Gabriella...they were so stinkin' cute! She held onto him...such a protective, great big sis. This set up may work for a bit...we'll see...)

* Kruz is pushing up on all fours for longer periods of time, and still rocking away, eager to 'go'! He's rolling and scooting himself all over the place! Very curious...and V-E-R-Y determined. We'll call it 'passionate'. Passion is a good thing. :) When he sees something he wants (ie: the video monitor), you almost can't pry him away from the idea. I do hope he continues to be ambitious and hard-working as he grows.

* He's finally enjoying more baby food. He'll eat: sweet potatoes, bananas, green peas, carrots, peaches, and mangoes. He'll tolerate apples and pears on a good day. He feels the exact same about avacados as his Mommy: he literally GAGGED. Although I'm slightly proud that this may be evidence of a 'gene' I passed down (?!), for health reasons, I do hope he begins to love it as much as Daddy & Sissy.

* So, not as if you care, but for documentation purposes: He takes a bottle around 7-8 pm, then goes to bed. He wakes around 4 or 5am for another bottle and goes right back to sleep. He wakes again around 7-7:30 am for another bottle, followed by cereal & a little fruit, and then a (brief)nap shortly after. Another bottle around 10-10:30 ish, then a little baby food for 'lunch'. Possibly a brief nap, depending on the first. Bottle around 1-2 pm, followed by typically the 'main' nap of the day. Still not a huge deal, but possibly up to 2 hrs on a great day. Fortunately this is the same time that Gabriella naps...little break for Mommy= yes, please! Bottle around 5 pm ish, a short evening nap, and then cereal and veggie, followed by night time bottle. Whew, he seems to eat a lot! But...it's not as much as it seems-just often. He's not eating large amounts at once, 3-7 oz in a bottle, often about 5. Not eating huge amounts of food...maybe 1/2 a jar. **If you are reading this, and have a baby of similar ages, what's working for you?

*He is a super HAPPY baby, laughing, smiling, 'talking' (screaming) a lot. He loves interaction, making faces, for Sissy to play with him. He's crazy in love with his 'jumpy'...and so am I! He's a strong little jumper! He's lately been enjoying books...I am making a conscious effort to take the time to introduce him to books. I did that a lot with Gabriella, and she LOVES books. It's harder that he's the 2nd baby, but worth every effort in my mind.

* I think I posted that he said "mama" a couple of times. No update on that one. :)

* I think it's safe to say that Kruz is a sweet, loving, happy, good-natured little boy. And he melts my heart! Oooh, I love him!

Avoiding the Paparazzi

2010-08-17T12:27:00.000-07:00

"Hmmm, I see you have the camera, Mom, and would like to take my picture..."

"Here's what I think about that"

"Still trying? I don't think so..."

"Fine. Since I'm a sweet girl, I'll give ya a little smile. Now, pay up!"

(Almost) Crawlin' Allstar

2010-08-17T12:18:00.000-07:00

We have an ALMOST allstar crawler on our hands. No crawling yet, but some serious hands and knees rocking! He wants to 'go' so bad, he can hardly stand it. But don't be fooled; just b/c he can't crawl does NOT mean he can't get around. He used to play so nicely on this mat...now I can't keep him on it...he's everywhere!

I just LOVE this face. I mean, really, really love it.

Great legs for a boy, don't ya think? hehe...

Can't catch me!

Milky Mess

2010-08-17T11:58:00.000-07:00

Nights are fun at our house, as I'm sure many of you with babies understand! It works out that on most nights, both Gabriella & Kruz have their 'milk' at the same time...and usually they both demand Mommy in their sleepy state. Occasionally, Gabriella likes to help Kruz w/ his 'baba'. On this particular night, Kruz thought he'd return the favor. Kad and I were laughing so hard, we didn't care that we all ended up covered in milk.

G wore these same jammies... Kruz fills them out much more than she did at this age!

Wondering if we should take stock in Huggies?

I think his face is priceless here...

Haha!

Sitting Up & Reading? Oh, So Skilled.

2010-08-17T11:50:00.000-07:00

Kruz is 5 1/2 months old here. We're working on sitting up...and apparently, reading. ;)

I could just eat him up

Family Fun

2010-08-17T11:45:00.000-07:00

It had been a while since my side of the family had gotten together, so we were all excited to hang out again.

SO much fun!

A Visit From Little Lucy

2010-08-17T07:25:00.000-07:00

Some of our good friends, Jess & Billy, brought their sweet baby, Lucy, over to play while we enjoyed our favorite pizza from Johnny's! Gabriella is 26 mo, Kruz is 5 1/2 mo, and Lucy is 7 mo here.

Uh oh...

Um, one of my all time favorite pictures! Ha!

Sweet Reading Buddies

2010-08-17T07:16:00.000-07:00

I don't think it gets any sweeter than this...

Ahh...