What Bean Did

We've Moved!!

2010-04-27T15:53:00.000-07:00

Hello loyal followers.....with the new addition to the family, I figured it would be appropriate to get a new blog name. So, from this point forward all new blog posts will be on the new address. Additionally, you will be automatically redirected to the new address from here.

The new address is: http://theprincessandthebean.blogspot.com

She’s here!! {LONG post….}

2010-04-18T18:31:00.001-07:00

If you haven’t already heard, Kennedy Grace Glithero has arrived. She made her entrance into this world quite unexpectedly and 5 weeks early, last night, April 17 at 10:19 PM. She weighed in at 5 pounds 9 ounces and was 18 inches long.

The day started off pretty ordinarily, Aunt Rohnda is in town so we all took a trip to the zoo in the AM, ate lunch at The Farm, and had quiet time. After this, Giles and I set to work making dinner with the family; I made tortilla casserole and Giles grilled. I had finished my part and was sitting outside with Giles while he finished up the chicken and salmon. We were talking about how different our lives were going to be in 2 1/2 weeks when Kennedy got here. When we stood up to take the last of the food in, I felt a gooshing feeling. When I went to check it out while everyone sat down to eat, the one thing that we didn’t want to happen, did; I was bleeding.

Well, the doctor made it perfectly clear that if there was ANY bleeding I was to go straight to the hospital. So, Giles and I kissed everyone goodbye, left Bean with Aunt Rohnda and Grammy, and headed out. Thirty five minutes later we were at the hospital getting admitted. After a quick exam it was decided that Kennedy would be coming via c-section that evening. By, 9 I was getting prepped and by 9:45 I was in surgery.

Yes that’s my phone. I had to make some calls!

Since Kennedy was born 5 weeks early, she has had some complications. She has a pneumothorax, a small hole in her lung and some air build up around it. The doctors say that her little lungs don’t have all the “wetness” that a full term baby’s would, so there are some areas that are still a little stiff. When she took her first big breath after delivery, one of these stiff spots got “over stressed” and didn’t have the elasticity that the rest of her wet lungs would, and therefore “popped” a little. This was confirmed by x-ray. What this did is make it very difficult for her to breath deeply or to get all the oxygen she needs. So, I got to see her briefly and give her a couple quick kisses before they whisked her away to the NIC-U.

The good news is that the pneumothorax is improving, as the xray this morning showed that the hole is getting smaller and the air around it is disappearing.

In the meantime, she is spending her time in the NIC-U disguised as the “bubble baby” as I’m calling her. Her little head is in this very cool helmet that gives her oxygen so that she can breathe at full capacity without having to work really hard at it and stressing herself out. Any undo stress causes her to cry hard and breath rapidly and risk reopening, or worse, making the hole bigger.

Since I am mostly bed ridden, resting and recovering from the c-section, Giles has been spending alot of time in the nursery, fawning over Kennedy and taking LOTS of pictures!

She is so very small to me, remember that Bean was 8lbs, 13oz when she was born, but getting healthy and is beautiful. We are feeling very blessed this weekend and can’t wait for her to get better so we can hold her and bring her home.

And that is all the updating I can give you for now, as my pain meds are kicking in and I’m having a VERY hard time focusing on the keys. Good night to all and thank you for your thoughts and well wishes. We love you.

Uh oh….

2010-04-14T16:40:00.001-07:00

I see a shoe obsession coming on.

Scooter Time

2010-04-07T08:12:00.000-07:00

After Easter egg hunting, while Mommy was still at work, Daddy took Bean out for a walk/trip to the playground/scooter ride.

After blowing some bubbles and playing a little bit, Daddy showed Bean a new way to ride her scooter.

Totally looks like fun to me!

Happy Easter

2010-04-06T23:08:00.001-07:00

The Easter Bunny visited our house this year and he did not disappoint.

He was a messy, but helpful, bunny since he left little footprints everywhere.

Here’s a video of Bean doing some egg hunting. I love what she says when she sees that he’s left her money.

After all the eggs were hunted, Bean found her Easter basket and gifts from the Aunts and Uncles and dug in.

Aunt Lori got her a Zhu Zhu pet (his name is Nugget) a hello kitty pez and some very pretty inherited butterfly magnets that she loves.

Uncle Jason, Aunt Jenn and Sela sent a package stuffed with Easter eggs, sidewalk chalk and a yummy chocolate bunny, which she wanted to eat right then!

After opening all her gifts, it was time to play with Nugget….she put his “toy” together (mostly by herself) and then let him loose.

She shows her face

2010-04-02T15:40:00.000-07:00

We’ve had many ultrasounds of new baby Kennedy, but until a couple weeks ago we hadn’t gotten a decent look at her little face…..well, we finally did and it’s pretty amazing.

Cause I Can’t Resist the Cuteness!

2010-04-02T10:27:00.000-07:00

No special occasion here, just some cute pictures taken before bed one night.

Day Out with Daddy

2010-04-01T15:23:00.000-07:00

During Spring Break, Daddy got to take a day off to spend a day with us. Since it was a Thursday, we headed out to Kids Club at the mall to reunite with all our friends.

Somehow, Mommy ended up “on stage” to do the pregnant version of the “prairie dog dance.” Lucky me.

After the show, we headed inside for some lunch, which was preceded by a photo op with the Chick Fil A cow.

We LOVE the big bunnies!

2010-04-01T09:12:00.000-07:00

Since we had some time off during spring break, we got to hang out with Colin! Yay!

We went to see a movie in downtown Tempe…….and no trip to downtown Tempe is complete without a visit to the big bunnies.

We Built It!!

2010-03-31T13:07:00.000-07:00

So, seeing that the baby’s arrival is just weeks away, we want to get Bean slowly acclimated to sharing her space. The first step has been to rearrange the room so it’s crib friendly again. For us this involves getting Bean a new bed that fits in a better space. Seeing as we don’t want to break the bank for a new bed, we turned to one of Mommy’s newest, favorite blog, Knock Off Wood. Ana, the woman who runs it, is simply amazing. From what I can tell, she just looks at the catalogs of big name furniture sellers (Pottery Barn for instance) and draws up her own, simple, building plans.

When I saw the Stratton Daybed Plans I KNEW it was the perfect bed for Bean. So, this last Saturday, while we were on a roll, we headed out to the Home Depot to start the build.

Bean helped us shop for the wood.

Daddy made the cuts and built the first box.

While Daddy worked, I kept Bean entertained.

It didn’t take Daddy long (a little under 4 hours actually) to get all three boxes built. And it didn’t take Bean long to figure out that the boxes have perfect Bean sized cubbies to hang out in.

After we got all the boxes built, we put them together to get a preview of what it would look like. Bean however, loved it because it was a perfect stage for her to dance on! And she even roped Daddy into a little performance too. Raise the roof!!

The next morning, after the wood filler was dry and the sanding was all done, Bean and Daddy set to work priming the bed. Isn’t she the cutest painter you’ve ever seen?

The following day, I bought the paint and while I was at work, Bean and Daddy finished up the last of the painting.

Here’s a side by side comparison. PB website picture on the left, Bean’s new bed on the right. We don’t have any baskets in yet, but you get the idea. I think we (mostly Daddy really) did a FANTASTIC job. And Bean LOVES LOVES LOVES it.

However, I think my favorite part is the very sweet love note that Daddy wrote on the top of the bed. He is a pretty amazing guy.

Transportation Day

2010-03-31T09:32:00.000-07:00

After our photo shoot Saturday morning, we headed over to a local preschool that some of Bean’s friends go to for their event, “Transportation Day.” The mom’s who put this together did an AMAZING job! There were tons of vehicles for the kids to climb on and in, there were bouncy houses and there were so many things to look at and do.

She climbed on a tractor/crane/thingy.

Got to send out the cavalry using the radio in the police car. Won some lollipops and bubbles.

She also got to hang out in the kids ambulance and get a quick check up from the EMT. Finally, we stopped off and posed for some pictures.

It was a VERY fun time!

Picture Day

2010-03-30T21:17:00.001-07:00

This past weekend, in honor of our upcoming arrival, we had family pictures taken.

Our photographer, Ashley of Sapphire Eyes Photography, did an amazing job considering that Bean was a crazy person the entire shoot.

Here are all the pictures she took. I think they are beautiful and such a wonderful way to remember our last little bit of time together as a family of three.

Chalk Art

2010-03-21T15:20:00.000-07:00

Spring is here and the weather is beautiful. The other day we spent some time outside after dinner using our sidewalk chalk.

She wanted a rocket, a rainbow rocket, Daddy and I added the rest. It’s pretty good I think.

Paging Dr. Bean

2010-03-20T09:09:00.000-07:00

Last week, Bean came home from preschool with her very own, well stocked, doctor’s bag. This meant that check ups were in order.

I got a thorough exam and a band aid. I felt much better after. But the best part was the big smooch at the end!

Happy Birthday to Mommy

2010-03-20T09:01:00.000-07:00

A couple of Sunday’s ago it was Mommy’s birthday. When I got home from work and peeked in the fridge, this is what I saw. Daddy knows that there are really only two things I want for my birthday, attention and cake.

Well, did he ever come through! That, my friends, is a thing of beauty. However, I had to wait to actually taste it until after dinner.

Of course, we ended up at Red Robin for dinner, but this is really because I let Bean choose.

After dinner, we opened gifts……..

Sang happy birthday, blew out candles and dove into that cake. LOOK at it! People we didn’t know oo’ed and ah’ed over it as they walked by. And yes, it was delicious!

Here’s the whole gang. It was a fantastic day and I enjoyed every minute of it!

Scissor Skills

2010-03-19T16:47:00.000-07:00

At preschool, Bean has been using scissors all year long. We decided to get some practice in at home too. I didn’t realize how well she was doing with this skill until I saw it in action myself.

Daddy drew some shapes on construction paper, gave her a few pointers and let her loose.

Field Trip!

2010-03-19T08:39:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago, Bean and I got to go to the Children’s Museum again for a field trip with her preschool. As always, it was so much fun.

We stopped off and painted the castle a little bit. She also accidentally painted her friend Zoie’s hair, who also accidentally returned the favor. However, it made for some cute rockstar highlights in the girls’ hair for a few hours.

Then we moved on to the art station where the kids got to make their own crowns. Bean put LOTS of feathers on hers.

She also spent some time hitching a ride with Tatum on the bike track.

Everybody Loves a Parade

2010-03-18T15:25:00.000-07:00

A couple weekends ago, Daddy’s school got to participate in the community’s annual parade. Of course Bean and I went out to support and watch them all.

It was still a little cold when we got there, so we bundled up and waited. It was the LONGEST parade ever, but fortunately there were lots of participants that kept Bean entertained. She especially liked the cheerleaders.

Finally, Daddy’s float came along! Bean thought this was so cool, and even better when Daddy scooped her up and took her along for the rest of the parade route.

She’s got frog feet

2010-03-18T09:07:00.000-07:00

This kid might just be the funniest person I know. I’m pretty sure she gets it from her dad.

Those are gloves on her feet. When we found her like this, she told us that she had frog feet.

Chopstick Lessons from Daddy

2010-03-17T15:01:00.000-07:00

The other night I made stir fry for dinner. Whenever we have Chinese food, Daddy uses his chopsticks to eat (showoff). Well, this night, Bean wanted to try out chopsticks too. So daddy fashioned her some “beginner” chopsticks, showed her how to use them and let her loose.

The noodles were a bit challenging, however she did pretty good with the big chunks.

Joshy’s Birthday Party

2010-03-17T08:53:00.000-07:00

So we are WAY late on posting this, but…..

A couple weeks ago we got to celebrate Joshy’s birthday at Chuck E Cheese.

Here’s the birthday boy with his SUPER cool birthday crown on. After cake ChuckE made an appearance and posed for pictures with all the guests.

While mommy ate pizza, Bean and Daddy spent time spending their tokens on games. Well, they hit the MOTHERLOAD!

Here’s Bean showing off what she “bought” with her winnings; a lip gloss watch, a ballerina necklace and some fancy glitter face stickers.

Happy birthday Joshy!! Thank you for inviting us. We all had SO much fun!

Park Playdate

2010-03-16T21:41:00.001-07:00

A couple weeks ago we went to the park with Aiden and his little brother, they are Grammy’s neighbor’s nephews. The big kids had so much fun rolling down the big hill.

Then after they got tired of rolling, they played at the playground.

Hi. My name is Bean. Could I be WEARING anymore clothes!?

2010-02-21T09:15:00.000-07:00

So, even though we’ve managed to stop Bean from tearing her room apart everyday at quiet time and/or bedtime, she still manages to surprise us every once in awhile.

This is how we found her the other night after we put her to bed and she’d fallen asleep.

For those of you counting, she has on four shirts and four pairs of pants.

When we saw her, we immediately thought of an old “Friends” episode where Joey and Chandler get in an argument about each other’s clothes and as a final payback Joey puts on ALL of Chandler’s clothes.

Here’s a quick video for a fun laugh and reminder…..

Aren’t I BE-UUU-Tiful?!

2010-02-20T15:16:00.000-07:00

She wanted ALL her flowers in her hair.

There are no words…

2010-02-20T08:46:00.000-07:00

for how stinkin cute this kid is!!!

Aloha!

2010-02-19T15:33:00.000-07:00

Last week, Bean’s BFF, Colin and his mommy came over for a playdate, and they didn’t come empty handed. Colin’s mommy and daddy had gone to Hawaii on vacation the week before and brought Bean home a souvenir. How thoughtful! And it’s perfect, since it counts as DRESS UP!!!

Even Colin had his own, kukui nut lei, the traditionally men’s version of the Hawaiian lei.

She might be a teensy bit eccentric

2010-02-19T09:07:00.000-07:00

Doesn’t every toddler do their stroller exercises in their underpants with sunglasses and a back pack on?

On another, more dressed note, I just think these pictures are too cute to NOT post.

I see an expensive Christmas in our future

2010-02-18T15:58:00.000-07:00

Somebody has mastered the art of games on nickjr.com and disney.com

Mimi, PopPop, Grammy? Start the laptop savings fund now.

Things that make me happy

2010-02-18T08:51:00.000-07:00

A couple Sundays ago, when I pulled into our neighborhood on my way home from work, I happened upon this scene.

It made me smile the entire rest of the day. I love those two.

Ren Fest 2010 (VERY Image heavy)

2010-02-17T15:41:00.000-07:00

Around here, February means the Renaissance Festival has arrived. We decided we’d enjoy the festival it’s opening weekend and hopefully avoid the huge crowds. It worked and we had a FANTASTIC time.

Our first stop was at Mother’s Goose’s shop, where there are 4 ducks/geese to pet. The picture on the left is from this year, the picture on the right is from last year….it might be the same goose!

Even Mommy got some goose hugs. After petting the geese, we stopped off to listen to some highland music. However, Bean decided it would be more fun to snuggle with Daddy.

Then we made a short stop at the playground. VERY cool that they have a playground.

As we walked, Bean had to stop off to play with the “locals” and get her picture taken.

We found the “Queen of Hearts” (that’s the name I gave her, just because whenever I see her that’s what I think of) and had to get a picture with her, since we did last year (on the right).

Then we stopped off and had a quick ride on DaVinci’s flying machines before we had lunch. We decided that, since we’re trying to save money, we’d pack a lunch and eat it there…however, they won’t let you in with outside food, so we left it in the cooler in the car (we came prepared) and had a picnic in the parking lot.

After lunch we headed back in and took some funny pictures and visited the petting zoo.

Daddy was awesome enough to go on the Dragon Tail Tower slide with Bean. Turns out, he probably didn’t need to, as she came down, by herself first. The kid is fearless!

More rides, Bean can’t resist the rides!

After a little dancing and relaxing with Daddy, it was time to call it a day.

Here is Bean showing off her fairy wings, her souvenir from the “faire” as she called it.

We built a fort

2010-02-17T09:18:00.000-07:00

She said, let’s build a fort Mommy. Four chairs and three blankets later, we had a fort we could have slept in.

January Random-ness

2010-02-16T15:48:00.000-07:00

These are just a few pictures that didn’t really need thier own post, but were too cute to not post.

She’s so proud of her Potato Heads.

Ah, technology. They were both playing on the iPod/iPhone.

This is Daddy’s face warmer for when he plays airsoft, NOT a burka. I promise.

A British Breakfast

2010-02-16T08:41:00.000-07:00

Mommy works every Sunday morning, which leaves Daddy in charge of breakfast. Many mornings ~~Bean demands he make~~ he chooses to make Dippy Eggs and Soldiers for her. Now, being a nice American girl, I had never heard of this until I met Daddy. This is the breakfast he had as a child growing up in England and in America as an immigrant. It is soft boiled eggs that you put in an egg cup. Then you break the top off so that you can dip finger slices of toast (the soldiers) into the yolk.

Bean seriously LOVES this breakfast.

Bean likes to eat the egg left in the shell after you break off the top, before she gets to dipping.

Yummy daddy! You make the VERY best dippy eggs and soldiers!!

And as a sentimental side note, see that egg cup she’s using (the best pic is on the left)? That was Daddy’s egg cup, passed down to Bean. How stinkin’ cute is that?!

Dinner Party

2010-02-15T16:00:00.001-07:00

It’s starting to become tradition that our Sunday evening dinner’s at Mimi and PopPop’s house always involve funny hats and parties.

This time it was a “dinner” tea party.

Then after dinner, Mimi did some crocheting while Bean looked on. She was intrigued and made Mimi promise to show her how to do it when she “is a big girl.”

Valentine’s Day: The Gifts.

2010-02-15T09:22:00.000-07:00

Bean got a few Valentine’s Day gifts yesterday, some pretty cute things……

A SUPER cute bear mask and ears, TONS of finger puppets and a kitchen utensil set from Uncle Jason, Aunt Jen and Cousin Marsela.

And more melty craft beads and a bejeweled bracelet from Mommy and Daddy.

Here’s Bean giving a personal thank you.

After we opened gifts, we had some lunch. Daddy made Bean his famous PB & J butterfly.

He totally rocks. Seriously, best dad ever!!

Valentine’s Day: The Daddy Date.

2010-02-14T18:00:00.000-07:00

Last night, Bean and Daddy had a very special Valentine’s Day date….at Chick Fil A. This was such a big deal, that it was semi formal dress and they had to make reservations!

Of course, before they left, they looked so nice that I just had to take pictures.

It was a fancy affair; they had coordinating tablecloths and napkins and even served the food on special plates. They also provided the kids with goodie bags, gifts, and activities.

And here is the picture they came come with. No day at the Chick Fil A would be complete without some love from the cow.

Valentine’s Day: The School Party.

2010-02-14T15:30:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, Bean’s preschool had a little Valentine’s party.

Here she is gathering up all her Valentine goodies and cards.

Then it was time to pose with her favorite preschool people. On the left is her preschool BFF, Zoie.

Valentine’s Day: The perfect outfit.

2010-02-14T12:15:00.000-07:00

This year, instead of buying Bean a holiday shirt, Mommy decided to get crafty and make her a dress. I found this AMAZING pattern from an amazing, sewing, mommy blogger here. I love it because I can use recycled/upcycled t-shirts for the materials….and there is a goodwill around the corner, so it’s super easy to get the materials and sew.

I saw the striped t-shirt and just knew it was destined to be her Valentine’s day dress.

It turned out SUPER cute, if I may say. :)

Valentine’s Day: Gift Prep

2010-02-14T08:15:00.000-07:00

Valentine’s Day is here. This year, we decided to surprise our loved ones and friends with home made greetings and goodies.

Mommy made cookies and truffles to send out. Bean did the decorating.

She is also showing off the cards we gave out to her preschool class.

Old School

2010-02-13T18:45:00.000-07:00

As seen in previous posts, we’ve been using curlers in Bean’s hair to get more hair do-in’ variety. However, it turns out, some of them fall out in the night due to normal tossing and turning….so, I used the method my mom used on me….a bandana.

Worked perfectly and we had no loose curlers the next night.

Oh, and just so you know, that paper she’s holding is a letter from Geico. She likes it because it has the “money bird” on it. That would be the stack of money with the eyes, the money bird. You can never say she isn’t imaginative.

Arts and Crafts with Daddy

2010-02-13T15:45:00.001-07:00

Last week, Bean found a Christmas present that had been “stashed” away for a crafting day. Daddy got home from work just in time to help!

Curlers in her hair

2010-01-20T13:28:00.000-07:00

Last night was kind of a milestone for me as a mommy of a little girl.

I put her hair in sponge rollers….like I wore almost every night from the ages of too young for me to remember to about 9, when I got my first perm.

She was very patient and attentive when I put them in and promised me that she wouldn’t touch them at all in bed.

Flash forward to this morning. Two of the curlers fell out, which is probably mom’s fault, I’ll need to practice putting them in a little better. However, they did the job! We have CURLY hair!

Not the best picture of the hair, but pretty cute of Bean.

It looked SUPER cute coupled with her ballerina dress up.

And even better combed out and with a barrette in it.

So, I’d say the curlers were a success and will definitely be a regular part of our routine.

Move over broccoli

2010-01-20T08:49:00.000-07:00

Gillian has a new love…..

MUSTARD!

Whenever it’s on the table with meals, she demands to hug the mustard.

Breakfast Al Fresco….Sort of

2010-01-19T09:30:00.000-07:00

The other morning Bean insisted on having her breakfast in her playhouse. So, while the bagel was toasting, we got her dressed warmly and set up her table so she could have her very first meal in her playhouse.

She’s as cute as a doll

2010-01-18T16:21:00.000-07:00

Bean and Daddy got out the tub of stuffed animals in the playroom.

(PS You like her Olivia Newton John / Karate Kid headband? We have Grammy to thank for that.)

After a little ‘Horton Hears a Who’ reinactment, Bean decided she wanted to REALLY play with her stuffed animals.

Anyone else having ET flashbacks?

Tea Party

2010-01-18T08:47:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday, at Mimi and PopPop’s, Bean got to help make desert/appetizers.

They were VERY yummy cranberry muffins.

After the muffins were made, we all donned our party hats and had ourselves a fancy tea party.

As a very good hostess, Bean poured us all ‘tea’.

After only a couple lessons, she was able to perfectly demonstrate the pinky out method of drinking her tea.

Here are all the guests gathered around the table for the tea party.

Tune in Tokyo

2010-01-17T16:22:00.000-07:00

For Christmas, Bean got a very cool TinkerToy set. Daddy and Bean love to play and build with it. This is just one example of some of the creations I discover in the living room after a day of creative TinkerToy play.

Zoo Lights

2010-01-17T08:17:00.000-07:00

Last Friday, Mimi and PopPop wisked the Bean away for a Zoo Lights playdate with Dante and his grandma.

They looked at LOTS of lights and even got to ride the camel. Together. By themselves!!

Then there was the mandatory carousel ride.

First she picked the giraffe, but it was the ONLY one that didn’t go up and down. So Mimi let her have another ride (sucker).

Here is she is with Mimi and PopPop cheesing it up.

Another Birthday Celebration

2010-01-16T15:07:00.000-07:00

It was Grammy’s birthday a couple weeks ago. Guess where we went to lunch to celebrate?

Red Robin of course…they have balloons AND ice cream!!

Happy Birthday Grammy. We love you and hope you had lots of fun with us.

Thanks for letting Bean ~~eat all~~ share your ice cream.

Look What We Found

2010-01-16T08:04:00.000-07:00

The upside to this is that she took a nap.

New Dress For Bean

2010-01-15T19:59:00.000-07:00

Since I have so much time on my hands (!?!), I got the crazy idea a couple weeks back to make Bean a “recycled t-shirt” dress. There is a blogger I love and follow who makes them and sells her pattern. I finally decided to buy the pattern and try it out. It was super easy and turned out pretty cute.

Bean actually picked out the shirts I would use. First she saw the yellow one. When I told her what it said, Lady Pirate, she was sold. The she picked out the purple contrasting one to match.

And here she is showing it off in full length. A couple of notes….yes, those are pink argyle tights underneath, and yes, Bean picked them out. And, apparently I passed on the “too bright in the sunshine squint.” Sorry Bean! (That’s me and my Dandy when I was 6. If you look in my scrapbook, there are LOTS of pictures of me doing the squint.)

Putting the Playhouse to Good Use

2010-01-15T16:29:00.001-07:00

Since the playhouse has been up, I’d say we play in it at least once a week.

Here it is in all it’s cute glory….

And here is Bean in all her cute glory IN the playhouse….

She’s already all moved in!

Cutest Pajamas EVER!!

2010-01-03T15:09:00.000-07:00

For Christmas, Colin and his mommy got bean an adorable pair of pajamas. I really love them!

And I just wanted to include this because it was so cute.

New Year’s Eve Celebration

2010-01-03T09:00:00.000-07:00

This year, for New Years, we were all invited over to the May’s house to celebrate.

First we had some dinner. Well, the adults had dinner, the girls played footsie under the table.

Then we headed outside to roast marshmallows and make s’moores by the firepit.

After we had our fill of desert, we headed back inside for some games. First there was a rousing game of hungry hungry hippos. However, that soon lost out to the iTouch. Turns out BOTH the girls have MAD iTouch skills, so they took turns sitting on the couch and playing the “monkey game.”

Finally, it was time for bed. After changing them into their pajamas, Emmy requested that Bean sleep in her room, but NOT in her bed. So we made Bean a little bed on the floor. Living in a dream world, I read the girls a story, we tucked them in and bid them goodnight.

TWO. HOURS. LATER. we realized the giggling, reading and switching beds wouldn’t ever stop, so we moved Bean into another room. She was asleep within 3 minutes of me tucking her in. Emmy on the other hand was a little distraught that her guest wasn’t in her room and took a little more cajoling to get to sleep.

To see more photos and another point of view, click HERE to go to Emmy’s website.

The Playhouse Reveal

2010-01-02T16:46:00.000-07:00

This is late in posting, I know, but I had some SERIOUS technical difficulties!

But, without further ado, time to reveal what the elves have been up to in the backyard.

On Christmas morning, while on the phone with mimi and PopPop, Bean got to find out that the construction project in the backyard was actually a PLAYHOUSE for her!!

Family Pictures

2010-01-02T11:28:00.001-07:00

On Aunt Lori’s last day visiting, we decided to take some family pictures.

This one turned out VERY cute.

Then things got a little silly. Okay, a LOT silly.

Super Bean!!!

2009-12-31T08:53:00.000-07:00

For Christmas, Bean and I gave her BFF Colin two handmade superhero capes and a superhero mask. Here is Bean modeling them for me.

A trip to the zoo

2009-12-30T16:40:00.000-07:00

On Monday, we decided to head over to the zoo and enjoy the cool weather and each other’s company. We got Bean all bundled up and headed out. Well, she looked so stinkin cute that I had to take some pictures. As you can see, we had a little visitor sneak into the shots.

When we got to the zoo, we stopped off at the giraffes, lions and tigers. But it was the hippos that we could see the best.

Then Bean stopped to do a little more posing, and who are we to NOT take pictures of her, I mean seriously, LOOK!!

Bean stopped to “feed” the lions.

Well, Bean didn’t have any quiet time this day, and as a result needed a little reminding about good behavior and better listening. After I spoke to her, we kissed and made up.

Here’s Bean and Aunt Lori checking out the cheetahs.

And no trip to the zoo is complete without brushing the goats.

Then we made stops at the penny squishier and the new Fisher Price playground.

And of course the carousel!

We had a FANTASTIC time. It was so much fun!

Happy Birthday Aunt Lori!

2009-12-30T09:12:00.000-07:00

Even though Aunt Lori’s actual birthday was yesterday, we celebrated with friends and family on Sunday.

First we started off toasting the birthday girl with mimosas. Then the food prep started, while Bean relaxed in the living room.

After we ate lunch, it was time for cake and ice cream. Bean got to help Aunt Lori blow out her candles. (I know Aunt Lori, now everyone gets to see how old you are, but really, you look great!)

Finally, after we got our fill of goodies, Bean and Aunt Lori went outside to enjoy the beautiful day and a game of hopscotch.

Playing in the Leaves

2009-12-29T20:52:00.001-07:00

Yay!! Aunt Lori is in town! On Sunday, while birthday party prep was going on, Bean and Aunt Lori spent some time in the backyard “raking” the leaves.

However, raking eventually turned into playing in the leaves.

Time to Open Presents!

2009-12-25T19:16:00.002-07:00

Christmas morning finally came. I woke up at 5 am anxious for Bean to wake up and see the loot Santa left. Then I woke up at 6 am and again at 7 am. Finally, at 8 am Bean wandered out of her room to discover Christmas!

She was VERY excited to see all her presents lined up under the tree. First she played with her quilted alphabet letters (mommy made those) then moved on to her stocking.

Since she asked for “green things” and broccoli, I made her some broccoli plushies, which she LOVES and some green shirts. This one says, “I heart broccoli”.

She also got tinker toys, which we haven’t fully explored yet. Then it was time to rip into all the presents.

Here she is with her “snap n style” dress up girl and ONE of her new games.

Which of course we had to play as soon as all the presents were opened.

After all the presents were opened and we relaxed a bit, Bean decided she needed to do a little dancing and put on her new iPod.

After that we tried out one of the new puzzles, the really really big Hello Kitty one.

The rest of the day was spent at Mimi and Pop Pop’s house with family and friends, playing, eating and celebrating.

It was a wonderful day, but wore the Bean out. She was asleep with her broccoli within 10 minutes of closing the door.

Merry Christmas

2009-12-25T07:40:00.000-07:00

Bean and family wish you and your loved ones a

VERY

Merry

Christmas

We hope the following videos help bring on the Christmas cheer.

Merry Christmas Eve!!

2009-12-24T22:33:00.001-07:00

We’re only one sleep away from SANTA!!!

Tonight, as we have the past couple years, Grammy came over and ate dinner with us. After dinner, we turned on the webcam and “opened” presents with Aunt Lori.

Bean got lots of good stuff from Aunt Lori; a Tag reading system and books, some Hello Kitty accessories and a Hello Kitty puzzle!

After we signed off with Aunt Lori, Bean opened her gifts from her far away relatives.

From Aunt Joan and Uncle Ray she got Candy Land, a book and a writing practice placemat. From Uncle Jason, Aunt Jen and cousin Marsela she got a book, LOTS and LOTS of stickers, and an iPod Nano!

After those gifts were opened, she moved on to Grammy’s gifts. What a haul!!

She got some green things; a green purse filled with a really cute frog hat and matching mittens. She also got a very cool hopscotch mat, so we can play indoors, rain or scorching heat.

She also got this super cool piano, which her and Daddy immediately began to learn how to use. Grammy also got her some other fun stuff, like books, some PJ’s and art stuff.

After all the unwrapping and thanking was done, Bean, Grammy and I made cookies for Santa (Grammy has those pictures) and then Bean had her bath while the cookies baked.

However, she looked so cute in her Christmas PJ’s, all squeaky clean, that we just had to do some holiday picture posing.

It was a very nice Christmas Eve.

And now we wait for Santa!

Flower Arranging

2009-12-23T16:08:00.001-07:00

On Monday, we went to lunch with friends. While we were there, Bean took everyone of the flower pots that were on each table and made a “flower garden” on one table. She even politely asked for the ones where there were people were sitting.

Isn’t she cute?

Wink

2009-12-20T09:12:00.000-07:00

This is how Bean winks at you.

At least she’s got the idea!

Roller Derby Training Starts Now

2009-12-19T16:06:00.000-07:00

A couple of days ago, Bean got a super cool gift from our friend Andrea, who is a retired Roller Derby girl. Here is a picture of her and her teammates, the Brutal Beauties:

Andrea is the one with the tiara on, in the front.

Does the tiara look familiar?

Looks like Bean got “kamikaze kiwi’s” (andrea’s derby name) no longer needed props.

And it looks like Bean’s got her game face down, now we just need to get her on some skates.

Anyone have a good derby name for her?

Winter Break Begins!

2009-12-19T12:48:00.001-07:00

Wednesday was the last day of preschool for Bean. The parents were invited to the last part of class to watch the little concert the kids had put together.

How cute is that!?!

Bean also got a present from her teachers, a Clifford coloring book, which she was excited to get.

Santa!!

2009-12-18T14:45:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, we went to see Santa Claus at the mall….

While we waited, Bean entertained herself

And then, it started SNOWING!!

That was good for a few more minutes of entertainment as well.

Finally, it was Bean’s turn to sit on Santa’s lap.

She had no problems with that. They giggled and laughed and told secrets.

By the way, she asked him for broccoli and green things. No joke.

The Elves are making serious progress

2009-12-18T08:51:00.000-07:00

The Holidays are Coming…

2009-12-17T15:49:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, we headed over to Mimi and PopPop’s for dinner. While we were there, Bean and Mimi decorated the Christmas tree.

While we waited for dinner, Mimi and Bean had a couple VERY cute moments.

Then, after dinner and bath, Bean had a Christmas toy party!

Happy Birthday Emmy!!

2009-12-17T09:39:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday was Bean’s good friend Emmy’s birthday party.

There was LOTS of playing

But shortly after everyone arrived, poor Emmy bumped her head on a picnic bench. See the big purple bump by her eye? The kids tried so hard to comfort her and get to play some more, but she was inconsolable for a while.

So, the kids continued on. I mean, there was a piñata!

And digging in the sand with forks!!

Happy birthday Emmy!! We had such a good time!!!

There she goes again….

2009-12-16T18:27:00.000-07:00

Whatever could be in this box?

A bean of course!!

Playdoh Art

2009-12-16T13:23:00.001-07:00

After dinner one night last week, we decided to all have some creative time. We got out the playdoh and went to town….

Bean made an amazing flower, all by herself! Mommy made a butterfly.

And daddy, well, daddy made a snowman tragedy. That is a snowman that has been hit by a car.

Yes, we love him anyway.

Game Night!

2009-12-12T15:48:00.000-07:00

Usually, when mommy doesn’t have to work on weeknights, we have dinner then go on a walk. However, on Tuesday night, not only was Bean feeling a little under the weather, but it was SUPER cold out. So, Bean suggested that we ALL play Cooties together. Hence our first game night was born.

Making Progress

2009-12-12T09:39:00.000-07:00

The torrents of rain on Sunday and Monday threatened to shut down the whole project, but at the first glimmer of sunshine, the elves were back, hard at work.

Those elves, what do they have in store?

Christmas Bowling

2009-12-11T14:45:00.000-07:00

On Monday night, we all went to Mommy’s holiday party, it was bowling.

Even though Bean has bowled before, Daddy has never been bowling with her.

They made a pretty good team, Bean worked on her form and had a great time.

Mommy on the other hand had an off night, only keeping a few balls out of the gutter. When it wasn’t Bean’s turn, she was happily playing with Grace, either chase, ring around the rosy, or “kitty” like you see in the picture above.

And I just included these pictures because I thought they were kinda fun. I especially love the one of all our shoes nestled inside of each other.

Over the Top 2: A Family Affair

2009-12-11T09:26:00.000-07:00

The Elves Have Been Back

2009-12-10T14:50:00.000-07:00

And they’ve made some progress.

A Princess Picnic

2009-12-10T10:00:00.000-07:00

Bean and I were given tickets to see the new Disney movie “Princess and the Frog” on Saturday morning. However, we left about 20 minutes later than I had originally planned, so, after standing in line for nearly 30 minutes in the theater, trying to keep Bean from climbing INTO the arcade games and spending almost $5 on a soda, we were told that there were no more seats left in the theater. The production people were generous enough to take the down the names and addresses of the 50 or so of us left in line so that they could send us tickets to another movie in the future. Some people were VERY angry, but I just shrugged it off as poor planning on our part.

Bean was, of course, disappointed since she had been looking forward to it since the day before….never mind all that anticipation standing in line and staring at the movie poster the whole time. So, I promised her that, on the way home we would go to the video store and rent some princess movies and have a “Princess Picnic” at home. She totally bought into this. At the video store she picked out FOUR movies, “Cinderella”, “Beauty and the Beast Christmas”, “The Little Mermaid” and a Mickey Mouse movie (not princess related, but her choice).

When we got home, I spread a blanket out on the floor, got some snacks together and loaded up Cinderella. She then insisted on wearing on her princess crown and holding her “bing” while we watched. We settled in….for about 50 minutes. That was as long as she lasted before she was totally onto something else completely. But we did have fun while it lasted and she forgot all about our missed movie that morning.

The Elves Have Been Here

2009-12-09T15:13:00.000-07:00

It seems that there have been some elves at our house. They are obviously prepping for a very big Christmas present.

Hmmm, I wonder what it’s going to be?

Miscellaneous Peektures

2009-12-09T09:18:00.002-07:00

Modeling the witch dress up Mommy found on sale after Halloween.

This is what happens when I leave Bean alone in the bathroom too long. She ends up with ALL her hair bows in her hair.

Bean and Daddy sharing some snuggles after doing a little shopping. So sweet.

Bean one morning looking super cute with her Christmas PJ’s on and her kitty get up.

This was the chalk art I had waiting for me in the garage one day when I came home from work. Bean and Daddy worked very hard on it.

Seriously, I cannot resist taking pictures of her when she looks like this sleeping. Seriously!!

Showing off how much she’s enjoying her very first hot chocolate….from Starbucks of course.

This was taken before the Imagination Movers concert, in lobby of the theater. I just thought it was cute.

We’re Crazy and Went Shopping

2009-12-08T14:59:00.000-07:00

the Saturday after Thanksgiving, kind of….

really what it was is that we hung out with Colin and Katie at the mall and browsed.

While Katie looked at shoes, I kept the kids entertained with novelty socks.

Then they decided they could entertain themselves all on their own, thankyouverymuch.

They were “looking for toys” in the ads.

Deck the Halls

2009-12-08T08:49:00.000-07:00

As per tradition around here, we got out the Christmas decorations the day after thanksgiving.

This year, Bean put up all the ornaments….which means that the top third of the tree is bare until Mommy or Daddy finishes the job.

She loved putting the ornaments on, she would ask about where each one came from.

She even did some super cute posing for Daddy.

And isn’t that “Gilly” ornament Grammy made last year so stinkin cute!?

Gobble Gobble!

2009-12-07T15:33:00.000-07:00

This Thanksgiving was held at our house again…with Mommy hosting and making the turkey.

The beautiful bird….and the turkey (thought I’d get to that one before someone else did) and some of the guests waiting patiently for……

the copious amounts of food….we just got got rid of the leftovers last weekend!

And our thankful door. If you can’t read it, the ones with pink stars are Bean’s contributions.

We Are the Champions!!

2009-12-07T09:27:00.000-07:00

You may not have heard already, but……

Daddy’s school’s football team took the STATE championship for their league. It was a super exciting game.

What did Bean do during the game?

She made friends and played hopscotch of course.

With her butterfly headband on.

School Field Trip

2009-12-06T15:14:00.000-07:00

Last month (yes I know I’m a bad mommy blogger) Bean got to go on her very first school field trip. We went to the Museum for Youth. Even though this wasn’t our first trip there, Bean still had tons of fun. Plus, there was a special story time and activity set up just for the school.

After story time, the kids got to make bear masks. Then they let them loose in the play area, where Bean promptly found the dress up….she’s Max from “Where the Wild Things Are”.

Plus she spent some time making patterns on the computer and drawing with Colin.

After the field trip was done, we headed out with Grammy to have some lunch and explore.

We found all these really cool bronze statues that were just begging to be posed with.

Then finally, on our way home, Bean insisted on wearing the mask she made earlier in the day. Doesn’t she make a super cute bear!?

Best Buddies

2009-12-06T09:59:00.000-07:00

Colin and Bean have known each other since they were infants….Bean was around 12 weeks old and Colin was about 8 weeks old.

You wouldn’t know it from this picture, but when they are together, they are TROUBLE!

Imagination Movers!!!

2009-12-05T12:46:00.001-07:00

Last night we headed out to Bean’s very first REAL concert….The Imagination Movers!

Here’s Bean waiting patiently for the show to start. She was VERY excited.

Then they came out!! Yay Movers!

All together now…..

Rich Scott

Dave Smitty!!

Even Warehouse Mouse was there!

She LOVED the show. She danced and sang and followed along on all the songs. The only time she got distracted was when there was a confetti and streamer explosion. She insisted on collecting all the streamers around us that she could.

It was a GREAT show and Bean seemed to really, really enjoy it.

Elf Yourself!

2009-12-05T12:34:00.001-07:00

Hip Hop Elves

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Disco Elves

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Arizona’s Gift

2009-11-18T09:34:00.000-07:00

On Friday, Bean and I headed over to the Apache Junction Chamber of Commerce to see the Capitol Christmas tree. If you didn’t know, Arizona is providing the Christmas Tree that will be decorated and displayed in the United States Capitol this year. To see more information go to Capitol Christmas Tree 2009.

While we waited, the SANTA stopped by to visit. Bean couldn’t wait to give him a hug, but she got to shy to tell him what she wanted for Christmas. Oh well, we have a few more weeks to work on it.

Here’s Bean posing with the tree, and here’s a better shot of the tree.

Best Kitty Friends

2009-11-17T09:21:00.000-07:00

After Colin saw Bean’s kitty face, he had to have one too. Who am I to deny him!?

Shipping and Handling Charges Apply

2009-11-16T14:15:00.000-07:00

How much do you think shipping would cost to Ohio? Mississippi? California?

Thank you Daddy

2009-11-16T09:12:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday, Bean and I headed over to Apache Junction to see Daddy and his students in the Veteran’s Day parade.

Here’s Daddy’s students. There was a pretty large turnout; all the football players, all the coaches and quite a few students. I was so proud of Daddy, he arranged their appearance in the parade all himself.

Plus, I’m so honored and proud of Daddy for his service in the US Army. He served for three years and even went to the first Iraq War. Thank you Daddy. We appreciate your sacrifice.

So Many Birthdays

2009-11-15T08:59:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday TWO of Bean’s friends from preschool had birthday parties. First up was Zoie’s party.

Bean playing with Zoie (the one in the hat, of course) and another party goer.

Then there was opening presents…we gave Zoie a dress up set; a tutu, wand, shirt, and crown, and an “I Spy” bag. After presents, we had some cake. Yay cake!!

*********************************************************************************

Then, just a mere couple hours later, we headed to Taytum’s party.

There was a pinata! Yes! And the pinata parts made perfect hats! Double yes!!

Then, of course there was cake….yes our second helping of the day.

Here is Bean posing with the birthday girl (she’s in the white shirt).

That’s a BIG bunny!!

2009-11-14T09:34:00.000-07:00

In downtown Tempe there are some bunny sculptures that have been there forever. Grammy wanted to take Bean to see them, so last week, we did just that.

Halloween Redux

2009-11-13T16:22:00.001-07:00

Since Bean’s friend Joshy got sick the day of his big Halloween bash, it was rescheduled for the following Thursday. None of the kids cared that it wasn’t Halloween anymore…..they got to wear their costumes again, there were yummy cupcakes and there was a bouncy house!!

First the kids decorated bags for the piñata. Then it was time to beat up the piñata. Each of the kids had a go, but that thing would NOT crack.

So, I had to take matters into my own hands and show that piñata who was boss.

Bean showing off her loot. Then they spent a little time playing in the water table that was filled with SNOW!!

After that it was time for cupcakes. Look at the ADORABLE spider cupcakes Joshy’s mommy made.

Here are all the kids …..

Back Row: Tyler (~3), Gillian (3), Colin (3)

Middle Row: Emmy (~3), Karly (2 1/2), Madelyn (4)

Front Row: Jayden (1 1/2) and Joshua (2 1/2)

PS Thank you to Emmy’s Blog and Joshy’s Blog for helping out with some of the pictures.

Trick or Treat!!

2009-11-01T16:17:00.001-07:00

The beginning of the day started off at the mall where there were a bunch of city departments showing off their vehicles and what they do. So Bean got to sit in the police helicopter AND a fire truck!

Then after quiet time we headed over to Colin’s house for our annual dinner and trick or treating.

After dinner, Colin’s daddy enlisted the kids to help carve the pumpkin…..

We roasted up the seeds and lit the jack o’ lantern.

Then the kids got dressed up and ready for trick or treating.

We did one round of trick or treating before Bean got pooped, so we went to the house to unload our first round of candy and rest up a bit.

Colin suggested that we use the wagon for the next round, which, the kids liked better, but really was just more work for them, getting in and out every 10 steps or so. After getting their bags filled we called it a night and headed back for some cookies and a much needed bath.

Hallopalooza!!

2009-11-01T09:30:00.000-07:00

The big church down the street had a HUGE Halloween festival on Friday night, so we decided to meet up with some of our friends and enjoy the festivities.

After all that Halloween-ing, Bean was plum tuckered out.