My Crafts, Crap & Crusades {and now Cooper & Dillon}

{Happy New Year Christmas}

2012-01-01T14:44:00.008-06:00

We went to Mimi and Papa's for New Year's breakfast and to finally open our Christmas presents. Dillon was very interested in the boxes this year

He opened all his boxes, some of brother's and some of mommies
Cooper opened a box
but he did not care to open any more after he found the JD tractors. I love this picture of Dillon standing on the box trying to get the paper off. C did not let go of the tractors and he did not want D to touch them

D was super excited to show us how to turn the tree on and off

Merry Christmas

and

here's to a

happy

healthy

2012!!

{Cooper's Christmas}

2011-12-29T14:16:00.005-06:00

Cooper woke up from his nap Christmas Eve just not feeling good. He had a fever and seemed to be breathing hard, so he spent the afternoon laying on the couch watching Wall-E. Mommie and Daddy were worried so we called our doctor who gave us some instructions to try and help him feel better. In the middle of the night when he did not seem to be getting better Mommie drove C to the hospital. After they took some pictures of C's chest they told us he had Pneumonia. The doctor decided to let C stay at the hospital to make sure he gets better. C slept and slept and slept
Aunti Rara brought him some of his Christmas presents when he woke up and I think this made him feel better

C was getting special medicine and it was slowly making him feel strong again.

When he slept he had to have help getting oxygen, so the nurse put a special tube in his nose, he hated this tube! Lovie or "woof" did not leave his side.

Aunti Jules sent special feel better balloons and they worked too

Rara came everyday to make sure C was getting better and to help take care of Mommie and Daddy

C had special breathing treatments where he wore this vest that helped him feel better and helped him breath easier, he liked it!

Mommie stayed by Coops side but C was the brave one getting stronger and stronger every day

C was feeling much better by the fourth day, smiling, playing and asking to go home. The doctors made us stay one more night to make sure he could breath all night long without the help of the oxygen tube.

Once C slept all night with out help from the oxygen they let us lead up our wagon and go home!
Although this was not where any of us wanted to be this Christmas, it was the best place to help C feel better. We are so thankful for all our family and friends that offered to help and most importantly prayed for Cooper during this time. It was very scary, but God healed Coop and made him strong and happy again. C was so brave.

It is times like this we truely remember the true meaning of Christmas.

{separate Christmas's}

2011-12-25T14:06:00.002-06:00

Santa dropped up exactly what the boy's asked for plus more. Sadly the boys were not together Christmas morning because Mommie and Cooper went to hospital in the middle of the night to ask the doctors to help Cooper feel better.

Dillon was excited to be able to check everything out before Daddy loaded him up to go to Mimi's house.

Everything was exactly where Santa had left it when Cooper got home from the hospital.

"new bike" "new bike" "new bike"

Thank you Santa!

{Merry Christmas to all}

2011-12-23T14:03:00.001-06:00

{Christmas Train}

2011-12-21T13:44:00.004-06:00

I wanted to start a new Christmas Tradition, riding the Polar Express. So we put on our pj's and headed to the train depot. First there was a show of Christmas music
then we got to ride the train! The boy's loved it!!

"wooooooo..."

then Santa came by

and gave all the kids their own Christmas bell

their were carolers on the car too and Mrs. Clause came by to wish us a Merry Christmas

It was so fun, but I think C had more fun pushing and pulling the big wagon with Papa...

{Santa take II}

2011-12-07T13:58:00.002-06:00

One of our bestest friends threw their 1st Annual Christmas Party this year and Santa came by to see the kids. Mommie decided to help the boys remember to tell him what they want for Christmas....

{going to see Santa}

2011-12-07T13:37:00.002-06:00

Neither Cooper nor Dillon remembered to ask Santa for what they wanted for Christmas this year, so Mommie will have to help them write a letter to mail to the North Pole.

Christmas has always been my favorite holiday, but now with kids it is so much more special. To see the amazement in their eyes and voices as we see giant Christmas trees (and tiny Christmas trees), lights everywhere and hear music everywhere too.

{sand box fun}

2011-11-30T13:32:00.003-06:00

The Fall weather has been so awesome so we have been spending as much time outside as possible. Daddy put sand in the sandbox today and the boys loved it. It is amazing how the simplest things can be such an amazing experience from a child's view.

Thanks Dada!

{Thanksgiving Part III}

2011-11-24T23:27:00.001-06:00

Dillon offically started walking tonight for all the family to see, we were all so excited for him! I can't get the video to upload, so pictures will have to do for this big boy moment!

{Thanksgiving Part II}

2011-11-24T21:12:00.002-06:00

I am thankful for Dillon's perfect smile
I am thankful for the sound of kiddos in my house

I am thankful for family, friends and football

I am thankful for a husband who is a kid at heart and the best father to our children I could have ever prayed for.

I AM THANKFUL.

{Thanksgiving Part I}

2011-11-24T21:01:00.003-06:00

To show our thanks for Aunti Rara we went to the Turkey Trot this morning to support her. She did the 10 mile race and we were there to cheer her to the finish line! (that's Rara in the pink)
Cooper played in his first bounce house, he choose the BiG one, not the small one.

He climbed all the way up on his own and loved the BiG slide

they got to ride the ponys

and talk to the animals at the petting zoo

Dillon was not happy to know this was his dinner tonight.

We love you Aunti Rara and can't wait to cheer you on at your next race!! We are very thankful for all your help and love through out the year.

{hangin with DaDa}

2011-11-13T21:28:00.003-06:00

The boys played at the track this morning.
C got to go for a ride with DaDa, D stayed in the stroller

they loved getting as dirty as possible and hangin with DaDa.

I am so thankful to be able to relax outside now that Fall is finally here.

{say chezzzzz}

2011-11-11T21:25:00.002-06:00

We took the boys to the lake so I could try to get a picture for our Christmas Card. I think I got what I wanted, I am saving the ones I used but here is a sneak preview.

{almost!!!!}

2011-11-05T21:19:00.000-05:00

Tonight Dillon was working so hard at walking, he was so excited and proud of himself I couldnot NOT take a picture. He offically took his first 3 steps! He was able to take a few steps a few times and if big brother had stayed out of his way he might have made it across the room.

I love his smile, it totally melts my heart.

{Halloween}

2011-10-31T22:22:00.003-05:00

Fireman Cooper
Dillon the Bee

bzzzzzzzz......

....trick or treat....

snuggles with Mimi

candy, yummmie

neighborhood halloween party

{and he's off}

2011-10-30T22:15:00.002-05:00

Dillon is almost off.

He is practicing non stop, back and forth, down the street, across the house. Lil D will be walking soon, but not too soon. He's my baby and he can be a baby as long as he needs to be.

"mommies helpers"

2011-10-30T22:12:00.000-05:00

I had some special helpers while making cookies today!

Love my boys!!!

{pumkins}

2011-10-23T22:03:00.000-05:00

We joined the neighbors for their Annual Pumkin Carving Party.

Daddy carved, Cooper markered, Dillon colored, we all had fun!

{State Fair of Texas}

2011-10-19T21:57:00.000-05:00

We took the boys to fair mainly so we could have a corney dog. We walked throught he Midway and they loved watching the lights and the rides going. We figured Cooper was still a little young to let loose on a ride so we were just observers this year. Cooper loved the careshow, he drove every car he could climb into.

{out side?}

2011-10-15T21:47:00.001-05:00

Cooper constantly asks, "out side?" "out side?" "out side?"

so, more times than not, we go outside

How can you tell a boy "no" especially with the summer we just had.

{Dillon's 1st day}

2011-10-03T21:33:00.001-05:00

IT happened.

IT just happened.
I wasn't planning on IT.
And niether was he.
We decided to to start Dillon at MDO too. I was asking to put him on the waiting list and I was informed there was a place that had just opened if I wanted it. I honeslty did not want to put him in now, I had been anticipating some Dillon and mommie time, but for other advantages we took the spot. What advantages? Well, with Brandon's new work schedule B and I can have some Mommie and Daddy time on Wednesday mornings and we really thought D would like it since he is so social. Although he is not happy when we leave him, the teachers say he plays and plays, only to scream the second he see's me there to pick him up.
I'll be honest.
I'm loving it.

{out for a ride}

2011-09-29T21:27:00.002-05:00

Fall is here and thank goodness the heat wave has broken!

So Daddy has started taking the boys out for bike rides. He says the boys enjoy it and I assume it is a good workout hauling 50+ pounds.

Yeah!!! For Daddy time;)

{A is for Apple}

2011-09-12T21:45:00.002-05:00

Today was Cooper's 1st day of Mother's Day Out

We have known it was coming for some time now

We've been talking about it for weeks

He's been practicing carrying his backpack and lunchbox as well as napping on his napmat

Today started out rough

As I changed his diaper 1st thing this morning and I reminded him what today was he would not let me put him down, wrapping his legs around me.

He didn't want to get dressed, the only way I got him in the truck was by asking if he wanted to ride in brother's seat, who was on a walk with our neighbor. This morning he didnt want to help carry his backpack, lunchbox nor his napmat, he even wanted to be carried inside.

He was feeling very unsure.

I hung out and played with him a while before saying good bye, he was sitting in my lap to prevent me from escaping, but evenutally I was able to sneak out.

I could hear him screaming down the hall, but slowly and surely the screams faded. I stood outside his door till be was better, maybe a little whiney, but I could see he was making friends with one of his teachers. I knew it was time to leave as I was about to start crying as one of the worker was trying to convience me it was okay to leave and that he was doing really well for having never been left anywhere before.

So, I left and Dillon and I played for a couple hours, just the two of us. We ate lunch together, just the two of us. When D went down for his nap I started missing Cooper and anticipating going to pick him up.

When I walked in the door and saw him hovering the same teacher, I knew he had found his safety and then when she told me how he was showing everyone his moves during music time, I knew he had a good time. I was shocked to hear he had actualy napped there, but his favorite teacher had sat by him till he fell asleep.

He proundly carried his Lovie and his artwork out to the car.

His 1st day of school, now history.

I'm sure he's going to love it, and I am sure it will be good for him.

We are BOTH just having to get used to it.

{where were you when the world stopped turning}

2011-09-11T22:12:00.004-05:00

9-11
10 years ago today America changed
This past week the media has been making tribute to 911, every time I listen to someone telling their story I have thought I should right my story of 911. Part of me think, why? My life was not directly impacted by a loved one's death that day, nor has anyone close to me been fighting in the war that has ensued since. So the answer as to why I am writing this is so my boys will know my memories of 911, however circumstantial they were.
As I sit here typing I am reminded of the day I asked my mom where she was when John F. Kennedy was shot. I'm not sure what prompted me to ask. She was sitting in class at Bryan Adams High School. She remember them letting the class watch TV the rest of the day.
9-11-01
I was living by myself in Valley Ranch (Irving, TX), I had my own apartment, going to school at The University of North Texas and working nights at Kirby's Steakhouse. 9-11 was a school day so I was up getting ready for class, the Today Show on in the background so I could casually listen to the news. I must have been just about to walk out of the apartment to drive to Denton because I was picking up the channel changer to turn the TV off as Katie Couric was reporting something strange and unknown was happening in NY, I remember the TV showing a clip of the tower on fire, no facts were known. I turned the TV off and headed to class knowing I would catch up with the news later in the day. The next thing I remember is being on 35 driving North, radio on, barley any cars on the freeway, reports of the other tower being hit and again, no answer as to what was happening. At this point I remember a surreal feeling come over me possibly anxiety due to the unknown, but knowing that something big was happening. As I kept driving to class they reported the pentagon had been hit, I was closer to school than home, do I even go to class at this point? I wanted to watch the news. I got to campus, but the parking lots were bare, I walked through the Union, everyone was standing still staring at the small TV's. At that point I just felt confused so I walked to class because it started at 9:30; 10:30 NY time. Ironically, it was my undergraduate counseling class, a small class, even smaller since many people had chosen to stay home. I remember the instructor coming in, casually sitting in one of the desks with us and asking us what we wanted to do. Did we want to 'process' what was going on or did we want to go home because there was a rumor the campus was most likely going to close for the day. After a brief discussion of what we knew about what was happening, we agreed to all head home, to watch the news. The rest of the day was spent watching channel 5, Matt Lauer, Katie Couric, and Tom Brokaw reporting as information came available. At some point in the afternoon Farrah came over to watch the news with me as well as my good friend at the time, Dylan. There was not much said, just watching in disbelief at the overwhelming unknown terror as it unravelled through the media.

{day 31}

2011-08-31T20:30:00.003-05:00

kisses

we all give eachother kisses

from when I lift them out of their cribs frist thing

till we go to bed last thing

we give kisses

blow kisses across the room

blow bubble kisses on bellies

kisses

{day 30}

2011-08-30T20:45:00.003-05:00

totally still

jaws dropped

you could hear a pin drop

when you turn on

Cars

I must say thank you to

Disney Pixar

for helping this mama get ready for work some mornings

and helping this mama keep her sanity some days

{day 29}

2011-08-29T21:40:00.002-05:00

due to a technology malfunction my picture of the day has been deleated into cyperspace

this makes me so mad

today we went to play at the indoor play center at The Galleria

Cooper climbed, ran, slide, chased

Dillon crawled under the bridge and through the tunnel

they both laughed and had so much fun

we had fun together

I love my boys...

{day 28}

2011-08-28T13:34:00.002-05:00

We had breakfast with

Mimi, Papa and Rara

Rara stayed to play

(and drink coffee)

she played cars

threw the ball

read books

she did not

change the dirty diaper

or wipe snotty noses

(but we still love her)

{day 27}

2011-08-27T22:28:00.001-05:00

ok...

this is what happends when...

MiMi gives Coop Dr. Pepper "because he was thirsty"

and when

MiMi tries to help with bathtime

LOL!!!!

what an afternoon

Lesson learned =

Cooper just needed his water cup

Always be thankful for the help I have

{day 26}

2011-08-26T12:57:00.004-05:00

today was Doctor Day

Dillon's 1 yr

Cooper's 2yr

Here are the Stats:

Dillon-

Weight = 24 lbs 14 oz (75%)

Length = 32 inches (>95%)

Cooper -

Weight = 33 1/2 lbs (60%)

Length = 35 1/2 inches (75%)

Both of their head circumferences are >95%

this makes me laugh because we know they get that from

Daddy

{day 25}

2011-08-25T21:08:00.002-05:00

Not

the best pic

But

Dad was behind the camera

(LOL)

today

Cooper's school gear was delivered

C starts MDO in September

now he has his own

backpack

lunch box

and

napmap!

{day 24}

2011-08-24T13:43:00.002-05:00

our morning walk

turned into water time this morning

first Dillon strolled

Cooper scooted his tri-cycle

then they played in the sprinkler

kicking and throwing the ball

ending with filling the wagon

to splash and pour the water

{day 23}

2011-08-23T09:26:00.003-05:00

Breakfast

we all sit together

Dillon likes milk with his waffle and banana

Cooper is not much for breakfast these days

preferring an early morning snack

but he sits with us

On days I work I drink my coffee

while I put on my makeup

today Mommie is off to work

the boys are going to play with Mrs. Mellie

{day 22}

2011-08-22T21:09:00.002-05:00

we are practicing for

football season

running

throwing

tackling

C is trying to say "touchdown"

D signs "touchdown"

we can't wait for the cool weather

football usually brings

(today was day 52 of 100+ weather)

{day 21}

2011-08-21T20:48:00.003-05:00

Sunday funday

usually ends with

bathtime

Daddy is

usually in charge of

bathtime

C & D love

bathtime

they splash

pour

spray

and sometimes wash

{day 20}

2011-08-20T12:45:00.002-05:00

Mimi came over to play today

Cooper always runs to the door and gives her a big hug

Dillon runs to mama in fear that I am leaving

More times than not

Mimi hangs out while Mama gets something done around the house

two extra hands with

two babies

equals

twice as much getting done

Thank You Mimi for all your help

over the last two years

{day 19}

2011-08-19T20:58:00.002-05:00

Cooper turned 2 today!

We went for ice cream to celebrate

his BIG day

He woke up with a cold

so we took it easy today

Mommie was blessed with Cooper

snuggling with her on the couch for a long nap

(which he never does)

I kept thinking about how 2 years ago today

Cooper laid on my chest for the first time

I love you Cooper

{day 18}

2011-08-18T21:53:00.000-05:00

I love it when I make it home

before the boys go down to bed

Cooper just learned how to open the door

so he opens it

Dillon bangs on the door with excitement

I can barely put my things down

they want to give hello hugs

{day 17}

2011-08-17T20:24:00.003-05:00

Wednesday night's

we meet Mimi, Grandpa and Rara

at a local mexican dive resturant

Dillon has not agreed the food is good enough to eat (yet)

but

Cooper devours his quesdilla rice and beans

{day 16}

2011-08-16T21:13:00.002-05:00

Daddy gets home from work

play time is on

hide and seek

chase

ball

rough house

boys being boys

{day 15}

2011-08-15T20:49:00.002-05:00

if it has wheels

they love it

they zoom around all day

they take turns

they chase

they race

they crash

they fix

they help eachother

{day 14}

2011-08-14T20:32:00.002-05:00

we all took it easy today

Cooper and Dillon played and played with all their new toys

then took a break to watch a movie with daddy

Sunday's are daddy day

the boys always make sure to get some snuggle time in

{day 13}

2011-08-13T22:25:00.002-05:00

Birthday Party Day

I was so excited

Cooper was ready to party when the balloons arrived

Dillon didn't know what to think about all the people

We enjoyed spending time with family and our closest friends

We celebrated a GREAT 1st year as a family of four

{day 12}

2011-08-12T15:16:00.001-05:00

Aunti Julie came in town

to help celebrate the boy's birthdays

Aunti Rara stopped by for lunch

Aunti's are great to have around

Aunti's always make the boys smile

{day 11}

2011-08-11T20:44:00.001-05:00

we love Mrs. Mellonee

or "Mrs. Mellie"

the boys

(Cain and Ipo included)

get SO excited when she gets here

screaming, laughing, barking and wagging their tails

she is great with the boys

we are ALL so blessed to have her in our lives

{day 10}

2011-08-10T16:27:00.002-05:00

picture day

to make sure I captured this special time

in a special way

the only way to get both boys

to sit at the same time

is to bribe them

yellow and green giant lollipops

{day 9}

2011-08-09T20:40:00.004-05:00

the boys love to play on our bed

Cooper jumps

Dillon flops

Daddy throws them

they love it

{day 8}

2011-08-08T18:21:00.002-05:00

we had special snack time at NorthPark today

Dillon had goldfish

Cooper and I shared a pretzel and lemonade

they enjoy people watching

almost as much as Daddy and I do

my boys are so special to hang out with

{day 7}

2011-08-07T22:04:00.002-05:00

I am ashamed to say this but our nighttime routine ends with

Dora or Diego

whomever NickJr gives us at 7:30

for the final 30 minutes of the boys' day

we all snuggle on the couch

then it's off the bed

goodnight

{day 6}

2011-08-06T20:16:00.004-05:00

Lyla, your 2 today!

your pink and purple toys were so fun

your pink and green party hats rock

your pink and green cup cakes were delicious

your mommie and daddie are great friends

{day 5}

2011-08-05T21:07:00.003-05:00

trains, truck, trailors

they all go zoom zoom zoom

today we played, sang and danced

but we had fun, laughed and screamed with joy

{day 4}

2011-08-04T20:52:00.002-05:00

day 34 of 100+ days

today was 110

it is 8:58pm and 103

too hot for my baby boys to play outside

thank goodness for the tractors working on our street

(because of the drought the water mains have broke)

so today we watched and played tractors

luckily they never tire of playing tractors

{day 3}

2011-08-03T20:20:00.004-05:00

Dillon is 1 today

I wish I had the right words to express how I am feeling

this past year has been an aMaZiNg roller coaster ride

two babys in the house is breathtaking in everyway
baby giggles, baby tears, baby snuggles

I would not change a thing

Happy Birthday to our Baby Dillon

I love you

Daddy loves you

Brother loves you

{day 2}

2011-08-02T21:40:00.003-05:00

the boys are so good about letting Mommie get ready for work

they just play play play

while we wait for Mrs. Mellonee to get here

{day 1}

2011-08-01T21:35:00.003-05:00

The first thing I see in the morning

Such a sweet sight

met with "mama, mama, dada, dada"

and baby giggles

C always wants to be first

but he is learning to let D go first

They let me know they are awake

by talking to eachother in their special language

D pulled up to standing for the first time three days ago

C could climb out anyday

{July}

2011-07-30T21:18:00.005-05:00

As I write this the news is reporting we have made it to day 29 of 100+ degree days and there is no end in sight. With that said July has been all about keeping cool. We have been finding things to do inside and if we are outside we are in the water. I have not taken many pictures this month so this post is a brief recap of what has been going on around here.

The boys love the Splash park so we took Daddy and some friends one day. Dillon loves plugging the spouts where the water comes out. One day we were there with Aunt Rara and Cooper was so excited because he thought he turned the park on for the day becuase he pushed the button just at 10 o'clock.
We have the most awesome next door neighbor who lets us swim whenever we want. Cooper and Dillon are very comfortable in the water, C is even jumping off the side into the water.

We went to the neighborhood 4th of July Parade for the 1st time (yes, I have lived here almost 10 years). We saw a firetruck, a police car, horses, and antique cars.

Dillon loves his snack cup and sharing with Cain. Mommie loves his adorable smile but does not enjoy his scream (YES HE SCREAMS!)

D loves to play in his play room

My happy baby, C! He helps show brother how to have fun with the toys.

August is a BIG month around here and we are getting excited!!!!

{11 fun things about me at 11 months}

2011-07-03T21:06:00.003-05:00

1. I have a big bruise on my forehead from banging it on the hardwood floors

2. I am learning sign language

3. I say "Da-da" and "Ma-ma"

4. my favorite foods are roasted sweet potatoes and carrots and bananas

5. I hate sitting in my carseat

6. I sleep with my monkey and blankie

7. I love watching the movie Cars with Daddy and brother

8. I play cars with my brother

9. I blow kisses and wave bye-bye

10. I love splashing in the water

11. I have THE BEST belly laugh that warms my mommie's heart

{22 things at 22 months}

2011-06-20T16:04:00.001-05:00

1. you love connecting trailors to your cars

2. your favorite book is about tractors

3. you love playing with your brother

4. your favorite food is pasta

5. you love to "shake it"

6. you like to stack your blocks

7. you like throwing two balls at once

8. you talk to yur brother at meal times

9. you are starting to do puzzles

10.you love your "lovie"

11. you are wearing a 2T now

12. you love books

13. your giggle is adorable

14. you 'try' to do a somersault

15. you help clean up your toys at bed-time

16. you still throw your food

17. you are trying to climb out of your crib

18. Toy Story (1, 2, or 3) is your favorite movie

19. you love playing in the water

20. you like to help pushthe stroller

21. your favorite cartoon in Dora

22. you love playing hide and seek with Daddy

{Daddy Day!}

2011-06-19T13:50:00.002-05:00

We call every Sunday "Daddy Day" because we always have Daddy home on Sunday, so "Father's Day" was a special 'Daddy Day.'

After swimming we played outside for a while, Cooper and Daddy graffitied the sidewalk and Cooper.

We enjoyed spending time with him.

We LOVE HIM LOTS!

{SpLaSh PARK!}

2011-06-15T13:24:00.002-05:00

We spent the morning at the splash park today and had so much fun! Dillon got into it more than I thought splashing, kicking, scooting, even plugging the spouts to make them spray! Cooper was all over the place even running over to the jungle gym every once in a while to get quick slide in. Even though it's 100 degrees we are finding fun things to do.

{crawling}

2011-06-12T13:38:00.003-05:00

Baby Dillon is Crawling!
In less than 24 hours he went from his first crawl to crawling across the room

He is so excited about his achievement as you can tell from his big smile!

His next challange is to navigate the step down into the playroom. He gets there and screams because most of the toys are out of reach until you help him intot he playroom.

{red wagon take II}

2011-06-05T22:48:00.003-05:00

{Dillon's 1st swim}

2011-06-05T22:43:00.002-05:00

Yesterday our awesome next door neighbor told me her pool was ready;

today we hit the pool!

Dillon had so much fun. He just floated around splashing and giggling.

I know we will be finding our way into the pool as often as we can because both boys have so much fun splashing in the pool!

{before/after}

2011-06-04T22:36:00.000-05:00

curls....

no curls...

His Daddy made me do it.

{Dillon at 10mths}

2011-06-03T22:26:00.002-05:00

I say this every month, sometimes daily.

Dillon is getting SO big!

It continues to be bittersweet seeing him grow and develop. He is pushing up on all fours preparing to crawl and pulls himself up onto his knees. Even though he's not crawling yet he gets when he needs to by scooting himself in backward circles repeatedly until he reaches his destination. This is so funny to watch!

He wants finger foods, but he is very selective of what he actually puts in his mouth. So far the winners are puffs, puffs, puffs, puffs, sweet potates and banana muffins. I am working hard to find more things he likes, this has been the biggest difference between Cooper and Dillon. It seems like Cooper would eat anything you put infront of him and didn't turn back.

Dillon loves playing with his big brother. They sit together on the floor pushing buttons on toys, zooming cars arounds and pushing the ball.

Dillon has the biggest belly laugh that just lights up my heart.

{Memorial Day fun}

2011-05-29T22:06:00.006-05:00

Dillon took his first swim in the Johnson Ghetto Pool and LOVED IT!!! He was screaming, laughing and splashing!!!

Big Brother was also super excited the Ghetto Pool was back up and running and was fast to show little bro how to have some fun.

Cooper enjoyed his new water toy

ans LOVED his first pop-sickle. He just keep looking at it and licking it all while giggling!

This awesome, super fun, super relaxing, super gigglie afternoon makes me anticipate more summer days to come!

{2 more monkeys at the ZOO!}

2011-05-26T21:56:00.002-05:00

I took my monkey's to the Zoo today and we had a bLaSt!!!
We saw all kinds of animals like what we are learning from in our books.

We played

played

and played. It really was the perfect day. Thank you Eve for inviting us!

{Dillon's 1st ride}

2011-05-15T21:51:00.002-05:00

I'm not sure if it was offically his first ride because I wouldn't let Brandon take him up the street and back, just sit there. But Dillon was excited! When he's a little stronger Daddy can take him for a r-i-d-e.

{mother's day 2011}

2011-05-08T21:38:00.002-05:00

Trying to take a "mother's day" picture was a perfect representaion of being a mom. I knew what I wanted, a picture of me with my boys, I had everybody dressed in the outfits I wanted, just our everyday casual clothes. Dillon made such a mess at dinner his pants had to come off and as soon as we went outside Cooper wouldn't let go of the tractor. So I didn't get my perfect picture as I had envisioned it, I got what turned out with what we had. Being a mom is teaching me that although I have plans, it is really about making things work the best with what you have.

{Dillon at 9mths}

2011-05-06T21:31:00.002-05:00

weight: 23.2oz (85%)

length: 30 1/4in (95%)

{family}

2011-04-30T14:03:00.006-05:00

All images by: capturedbykel.com

{Easter Fun}

2011-04-23T13:44:00.002-05:00

Mimi's church had an Easter Festival with a petting zoo and Egg hunt. C didn't care much for the Egg hunt, but he loved the petting zoo. He caught 2 chickens, pulled the bunnys ear, yanked the donkeys tail, slapped the pig and waved at the mini horse. Dillon just watched this year thank goodness because I'm not sure how I will keep up with both of them around wild animals.

{arboretum adventure}

2011-04-15T13:12:00.001-05:00

We ventured to the Arboretum with friends today. Taking pictures of the boys has become a challenge, Cooper won't sit still and Dillon just sits! Of course Cooper ran the show once I let him out of the stroller, he is becoming more and more 'independent' as I like to say every day. Dillon continues to live up to his nickname "Chillin Dillon" just hanging out as I run around chasing "C-Dog."

{be careful I bite}

2011-04-11T13:23:00.001-05:00

springtime rain

+ alligator boots

= the perfect outfit

Cooper's outfit made me smile all day as we played outside on a perfect weather day after a big rain last night. Ironicaly, while sporting this outfit, Cooper bit his little brother twice, ughhhhhhh....

{Spring has Sprung!}

2011-04-03T21:31:00.002-05:00

Daddy was busy doign yard work today we spend the day outside helping and enjoying the perfect weather. It was just warm enough to pull out the swim trunks and let C play in the water. Lil bro D watched with envy.

Sunday's at home just relaxing and enjoying family = PERFECT.

{Dillon at 8 months}

2011-04-03T13:34:00.003-05:00

I smile all the time

I sit all by myself

I scoot around the house

I love to swing

I eat 'puffs' all my myself

{friday's flash}

2011-04-01T21:39:00.002-05:00

I find myself just stopping to watch as C and D play more and more together, interacting, talking, smiling, screaming, pushing, hitting, giggling, sharing, helping, stealing, giving. I acknowledge how precious these moments are and I am thankful that I can stop and watch, smile, capture, referee, and enjoy these moments.

{Cooper @ 19 months}

2011-03-25T13:11:00.003-05:00

(I had to add this picture of D to show how he is watching big bro)

Cooper had his "18mth" checkup today, he is just over 19 months now. His well baby visit had to be puched back because he was sick a couple weeks ago when were originally scheduled to go.

Anyhow, here are his stats:

weight: 29.5oz (80th%)

height: 37" (>95%)

These days Cooper is all over the place learning and exploring. He loves to run around giggling, so proud he can run so fast. He is trying to learn how to ride his tri-cycle but for now he scoots along just fine on it. He throws and kicks the ball. Swings on the big boy swing and has no fear of slides. His favorite toys in the toys room are his trucks and blocks. He lays on the floor zoom-zoom-zooming his trucks around. When he does slow down he continues he will bring you a book to read to him and for him to show off how much he know by pointing to everything you name. Some of the words he uses are: dog, truck, ball, bat, tractor, outside, balloon. He is talking all the time, but we are still working on understanding him. He, on the other hand, knows what we are saying and helps us go get things and bring things with us all the time. He continues to eat eat eat. He loves anything wrapped in a tortilla and could eat pasta at every meal. He is too excited about fruit right now, hopefully this summer he will enjoy it more as a refreshing snack. Cooper is loving his brother more and more everyday. He sits and play toys with D, or simutaniously beside him, he has special conversations with him and is working on being gental with lil bro.

{just another MaNiC Monday}

2011-03-21T21:19:00.002-05:00

The weather has been great lately so we have been spending alot of time outside. Once again, Brandon has been working on the backyard. I am waiting for my "backyard Oasis." In the meantime the boys could care less. Dillon likes to hang out in his walker watching everything and swings sometimes too. Cooper is all over the place. He swings, slides, climbs, trikes, throws, kicks, bangs, draws, runs, digs, and everyonce in a while he chills.

Spending time outside is so relaxing for all of us.

{sitting big}

2011-03-18T21:08:00.001-05:00

Baby D is sitting! There are still some tumbles, but he is getting so strong. Now he can sit with big bro and play like a big boy, he is so happy and proud!!

{out at the Ranch}

2011-03-09T21:49:00.002-06:00

We ended up at Grandpa's ranch today. C met baby goats,

mama goats, donkeys,

more donkey's,

D enjoyed the sun shine,

and talked to Madonna,

the tractors were the big attraction of the day.

C loves tractors these days. We read books about them, he points them out on TV and while we are driving around town. He was so excited see all the tractors Grandpa has out there, but he was NOT excited when Grandpa offered to take him for a ride. I think the loud noise of it cranking scared him, so he just watched Grandpa move hay.

I think we surprised Grandpa showing up today, but we all had a lot of fun and we look forward to going out there again.

{Dillon @ 7 months}

2011-03-04T20:47:00.002-06:00

Dillon had his 6 month well baby visit today. He is late getting his shots because his appointment keeps getting pushed back due to being ill with cronic ear infections.

The stats:

weight: 21.9 lbs (90%)

length: 29" (95%)

Baby Dillon is growing and growing. He is now rolling from his back to tummy; tummy to back; and pushing up. D is not a fan of vegetables, preferring bananas, pears, apples and yogurt. Sometimes it's a challenge to get D to eat when he is not feeling well, but bananas always cause excitement. Dillon is falling in love with his big bro more and more every day, watching Cooper and trying to take his toys. He is saying 'Dada' non-stop, making Brandon's heart melt.

Baby D is scheduled to get ear tubes in early April. I pray this makes my baby feel SO much better. Amazingly even though he has been struggling with ear infections since November Dillon can still smile as big as the sun!

I love this baby!!!

{hangin with Daddy}

2011-02-21T14:20:00.003-06:00

We loaded up and went to play with Daddy. Cooper and Dillon had so much fun, and Mommie enjoyed getting to see old friends too. Daddy took C for another ride on the four wheeler and even got C to wear a helmet this time. Then C helped Daddy's friends work on a bike, he wanted to learn how to be a mechanic!

Mimi went along to help, so Dillon smuggled with her for his nap.

great weather, sunshine, good ol family time, getting dirty, seeing friends, sharing momnets in life

{daddy's toys}

2011-02-19T21:50:00.002-06:00

Daddy went to practice today and when he got home he let Cooper and his girlfriend play with his bike. Cooper is already picking up chicks with his four-wheeler!

After this picture Daddy took Cooper for a ride up and down the street, Cooper was "riding scared" as Daddy calls it. I didn't have my camera, so no pic.

I also, wish I had my camera with me this morning when Daddy was loading up to leave. We were outside playing while he got his stuff together and when he went to push the bike down the driveway he asked Cooper to help so they both push it to the street together. So cute!

The boys, Mimi and I are heading out to watch Daddy race tomorrow. Not too sure how that's really going to work out....hopefully I'll get some pictures to share....

{sNoW}

2011-02-04T21:32:00.001-06:00

Dillon's 1st snow!

We got about 5 inches so of course we had to take advantage of the photo op..
Cooper's 1st attempt to walk in snow=not so successful
When walking was difficult he thought crawling would be a good option until his hands were burning in pain from the cold, he finally got the hang of it though.

Cain loves snow! He just runs in circles when it snows.

Love the hat!

{6 months}

2011-02-03T20:54:00.001-06:00

At Six Months:

I smile all the time

Daddy says I like to "bark"

bananas are my favorite

sweet potatoes are a close runner up

I love watching my brother play

I cry when my brother slaps me on the head

'Chillin Dillon' is my newest nickname

I wear size 9-12 months clothes

my eyes are bright blue!

{Mimi's back!}

2011-01-29T22:02:00.002-06:00

Dillon was excited to see Mimi when she came over to play today
Mimi is so relieved her chemo treatments are finally done! She has been fighting the fight for months now and with the new year she is leaving cancer, chemo and radiation in 2010.
We are so excited for her that she is feeling better with everyday. And we are super excited we will get to see her more often!!

We love you Mimi XOXOXO

{Hi Santa!}

2010-12-13T14:16:00.001-06:00

Although I am so far behind on blogging and I hope one day to fill in the last 4 months I can't not post these for all to see, they just make my heart smile. I had been looking forward to taking the boys to see Santa for weeks. We introduced Dillon to Santa first and he was so happy to share with him what he wants for Christmas this year...

When Dillon was done talking to him Cooper joined him, (well...not willingly). Cooper didn't know what to think of Santa, but since he didn't feel like telling him what he wants for Christmas we left a letter with the Elf to give him later...

{Great GrandParents}

2010-08-07T20:27:00.002-05:00

Meeting Great Oma & Great Grandaddy

{hangin at the hospital}

2010-08-04T14:04:00.001-05:00

{meeting the family}

2010-08-03T23:47:00.000-05:00

Dillon also got to meet Mimi, Papa and Aunti Rara, what a busy day for all!

{meeting brother}

2010-08-03T23:00:00.002-05:00

Mimi and Papa brought Cooper up to the hospital to meet his new brother

"WoW Dad, what's that!?"

"oh wait, there's a camera, I have to cheese!"

"Awesome, thanks for the new toy, something new to bang on"

"Mimi, can I play with my new toy?"

Our new family of four!

{finally}

2010-08-03T21:54:00.002-05:00

I finally got to hold you once we were in rocovery. I was amazed by all your unique characterisitcs yet amazed at how much you resembled your brother. I was in awe that you were finally here and that I finally got to meet you. You were such a big boy your hat would barely fit on your head! Everyone was amazed at how big you were, but your dad and I weren't. You were exactly the same size as your brother when you were born, except you were born about two weeks earlier than him. From that point on I was sure you were going to be the 'bigger' brother. You were so excited to be here that you were awake almost all day! I brought you to our room and you just wanted to take in the world. World, get ready!

{Announcing Dillon Lawrence Johnson}

2010-08-03T21:37:00.004-05:00

6:44am 9 pounds 14 ounces

21 1/2 inches

Our new addition to our family, baby Dillon. With brown hair and blue eyes, ten perfect fingers and ten perfect toes...

Once the nurses were done with checking him out Brandon was able to hold him while they finished with me

So sweet, daddy and dillon

{READY!!!}

2010-08-03T21:27:00.001-05:00

We're R-E-A-D-Y!!!!

Here we are in a delivery room of Baylor Frisco about to get prepped for my c-section (pending another sonogram). Everyone from intake to discharge (well, almost discharge;) at Baylor Frisco were awesome, very attentive, educational and supportive. I was prepped for surgery before Dr. Ehmer arrived to do the sonogram, so thank goodness Dillon was still breech so we go on as planned. Let me take this second to say in hind sight I was so pleased with the c-section. All in all it was a much better process and recovery for me. The only draw back was I did not feel like I "participated" in the delivery and I was a little sad about that for a while after the delivery.

{Are you ready?}

2010-08-02T21:02:00.002-05:00

"Are you ready"

"Are we ready"

"Am I ready"

That is the question.....
That is what we were asking ourselves on August 2nd.
Today is October 24th and this is the first time I have sat down to update this blog since Dillon was born, so everything from the past almost 12 weeks is but a blur, but I was want it documented and many people have been asking what is going on with my blog. What happened was live with 2 awesome babies that take every second and ounce of energy out of me. So here we go.....
The night of August 2nd: house cleaned, Cain over to play with Doger for a few days, Ipo at Mimi's, Cooper at Mimi's, bags packed, truck ready, better get to bed because we have to be at the hospital in Frisco at 4am....are we ready? am I ready? well, we better be and I better be. My only fear that night was that Dillon has miraculously flipped over and we would be sent home without having him. At the last doctor's appointment Dr. Ehmer has said that when we arrived at the hospital we would do another sonogram and if he had flipped we would be sent home to wait. I had asked why we wouldn't just induce and he simply said we wouldn't since I was only at 39 weeks. I knew the possibility of him flipping was very slim, but I was prepared to throw a fit if I was sent home with no baby. I was as ready as I was going to be and with Cooper and the dogs where they needed to be I told Brandon I was not going home without a baby.
tick-tock
tick-tock
tick-tock

{Wordless Wednesday}

2010-07-28T20:41:00.000-05:00

{1st Swim!}

2010-07-25T20:35:00.002-05:00

We finally made time to take Cooper swimming!

We are supper lucky to have a great next door neighbor who lets us come over. Copper had fun, splishin and a spashin!!!

{11 months}

2010-07-19T21:44:00.000-05:00

At 11 months old Cooper:

-is crawling

-pulls up to standing

-gives kisses

-prefers finger foods

-has 8 teeth

-loves to play ball

-loves it when Daddy throws him in the air

-loves it when Aunt Rara tickles and dunks him

-loves splashing in the tub

-loves water in his sippy cup

{family photos}

2010-07-17T21:32:00.004-05:00

just a few to share...