Two Brothers Like No Other

DJ’s 8th Birthday Pictures

2011-07-14T15:14:00.001-07:00

We were on vacation during DJ’s birthday so we took advantage of the San Diego beach and took his birthday pictures at Solano Beach.

Of course, he didn’t want to do them at first, but once I bribed him with getting to run around the playground then he was more than willing to smile for the camera.

Almost a Black Belt!

2011-05-20T14:57:00.001-07:00

A few weeks ago, DJ had testing for his next belt – a red belt in Taekwondo.

He had been practicing daily and was anxious to take the test.

His hard work paid off and now, our DJ Man is a RED BELT! WOOT WOOT!

He is only 2 midterms and a test away from becoming a black belt and he is ready!

Congratulations, DJ Man! We are proud of you!!!!!!

Easter Egg Hunt

2011-05-11T11:54:00.001-07:00

This year, Cody participated in his first Easter Egg hunt. We tried to take him when he was one, but the Easter bunny scared the beejeezeez out of him. Now that he was almost 5 we decided to try again!

We headed to Pixieland in Concord for their Annual Easter Egg Hunt.

While waiting for the train that would take us to the Egg Hunt location, the boys entertained themselves.

They enjoyed a plane ride right before it was our turn to hop on the train.

After a 1.5 hour wait (that the boys were very patient about), it was our turn for the train.

A quick ride on the train and it was Easter Egg Huntin’ time.

Cody immediately spotted the kind of scary looking bunnies (people in costume) and did not want anything to do with the egg hunt….

while DJ took off at warp speed to shake some Easter Eggs (to filter out the ones with no noise because that meant it was stickers) and find some treats.

Cody watched DJ for awhile while his dad hunted eggs for him.

Then DJ started helping him.

Then he dumped the eggs out…

Eventually, he realized that DJ was having fun so he started hunting for eggs on his own.

The colorful goodies in his basket…

Since Cody wouldn’t take a picture with the scary bunnies, I made DJ do it. Luckily, he only put up a little fight.

Here are a couple of the boys and their Easter baskets.

Happy 5th Birthday Cody!!!!

2011-05-04T08:17:00.000-07:00

Following with tradition, Cody had his birthday photo session with mommy. Here are my favorites.

How old are you, Cody???

He wanted to play with bubbles and I told him to wait. This is the look I got.

See how much happier he is with bubbles?

Isn’t he so cute that you just want to bite him?

He can go from this…

To this…in seconds…

Then back to this…

He is getting to be such a big, independent little boy!

He is so cool that at school you can usually find him walking around with his hands in his pocket. ;)

Such a cutie!!!

Something tells me he is done with pictures!

T-Ball Time!

2011-05-03T08:00:00.000-07:00

Cody is now old enough for the Little League Challenger division so we immediately signed him up!

The Challenger division was specially created so that children with special needs could participate. There are children of all ages and different diagnosis.

We weren’t sure how Cody would like it, but so far, he is really enjoying himself!

Here are some pictures of “#1” in his uniform.

At his first few practices, he really didn’t care too much about the game. He refused to wear his glove and preferred to kick the ball instead of hit it!

After awhile, he saw how much fun the kids were having so he got more involved. He still doesn’t like wearing his glove, though!

These are pictures from one of his first practices.

and the kick…

Such concentration…

He is yelling “CATCH!”

When it was time to hit during that practice, he decided that he was done and sat with his head down so that no one would talk to him.

All the kids were having so much fun hitting the ball and laughing that he decided he wanted a turn.

After a few swings (and hitting the tee), he hit the ball!

The chased the ball…

…and ran with it to first base.

Happy Belated….Valentine’s Day!

2011-03-27T08:14:00.000-07:00

Yes, I am aware that is almost April and I am posting Valentine’s Day pictures. I’m playing catch-up!

We set up the home portrait studio and took some pictures of the boys for Valentine’s Day.

DJ wasn’t quite into it. Can you tell?

Then he gave the fake smile that is usually reserved for school pictures.

Then FINALLY a real smile!

Cody, on the other hand, was happy to pose for me (after 30 minutes of me begging).

Scooting Around

2011-03-25T08:09:00.000-07:00

It has been a long time since I updated this blog so I owe you pictures of the boys.

During one of the first sunny days in the year, DJ decided to take his new scooter for a ride. Not wanting to be left out, Cody hopped on his new, hand-me-down-from-DJ Scooter and scooted along with big brother.

We were amazed that he was able to ride it without falling. It took us a lot longer to get to our destination, but both boys were enjoyed themselves!

He had watched DJ enough to know the footing for riding the scooter.

Taking a little break after scooting a few feet from the house…

DJ was long gone before we even made it down the driveway with Cody.

Striking a pose…

Family Pictures

2010-11-17T22:17:00.000-08:00

Awhile back we were “models” for a workshop held by one of my favorite photographers, Me Ra Koh. She was in Oakland for a workshop so we volunteered for the family portion of the workshop.

Here are a few of the amazing pictures some of the ladies took. I haven’t seen them all yet, but will share them when I see them.

Halloween 2010

2010-11-16T22:11:00.000-08:00

(I am using a new blog writer application and for some reason it is lowering the resolution of the images so the images are not as bright as they are supposed to be.)

The boys, as usual, had treat bags for their classmates. DJ is getting to the age where “cute” doesn’t cut it anymore so his bags were a little more “grown up”.

Goody bags for the teachers.

Cody went to a Pumpkin Patch at the local Vegetable Patch with his class. This is his second time going there and this time he actually enjoyed himself. He picked a few vegetables, but didn’t really care for the squishiness of most of the vegetables.

He did enjoy picking out a pumpkin, though.

His teachers took a picture of him at the pumpkin patch and they made this cute frame at school.

Here is Cody’s little ghost that he made all on his own at school.

They had a party at school and he loved wearing his Spongebob costume.

Always a performer, he had to take time off from playing, though, to sing in front of the mirror.

He loves to draw and spent time coloring a mask…

Then cheated at the bean bag toss…

Then decided he was over the party and started taking his costume off.

For the first time in years, DJ’s school allowed the children to dress up in their Halloween costumes and they had a parade on the playground.

He wasn’t too thrilled to have his picture taken as Kamen Rider.

Gotta love the forced smiles.

The last unwilling participate to wear a costume was Lexus. She was supposed to be a squirrel, but she didn’t want to wear the hat.

Highlights from the 2010 Step Up For Down Syndrome Walk

2010-10-22T08:00:00.000-07:00

First and foremost, a HUGE THANK YOU to those that donated to Cody’s Gabba Gabba Gang team! We appreciate your support and are touched by the donations from strangers. From the bottom of our hearts, THANK YOU!

A SPECIAL THANK YOU to those that walked with us! It is heart-warming to have your support. It is further proof of just how much you all love Cody! :)

Our Team Captain was nothing but smiles that day. He must have known that we were there to show our love for him!

I’m not saying this just because I’m his mom (okay maybe), but doesn’t he have the most addictive smile??? I know you are smiling right now as you look at his picture. :)

The Co-Captain was ready to go, too! We had to explain to him that Co-Captain was not an abbreviation for “Cody’s Captain”. ;)

This was our first time joining the walk and we were very excited about it. Even DJ was (though he will tell you otherwise!).

Papa and Mama came out, too!

My brother, Mike, and his girlfriend Teri joined in the fun.

One of Cody’s favorite playmates was there – my younger brother, Mitch. (By playmate I mean that Cody likes to try his new wrestling or UFC moves on his Uncle.)

And we were excited to have my cousins, Kenneth and Liezl, join us as well! THANK YOU for coming out early on a Saturday morning to walk with us! Next time, I will remember to bring donuts. ;)

If there is music, Cody will find it. And when he finds it he will DANCE his little tushy off!

This is the look you get when the music stops.

And he was off!!!! Look at the joy on his face. He walked about half way then lost interest in the walk. :)

Again, THANK YOU to all those that showed their support through joining our team, sending donations and messaging us with well wishes for the walk!

Dandelion Magazine – Bay Area

2010-10-11T11:38:00.001-07:00

If you live in the San Francisco Bay Area, you may have heard of Dandelion Magazine. It is a magazine dedicated to parents of special needs children. It is a great resource full of information for therapies, activities, events, doctors and so much more.

If you take a look at the magazine you will see a couple of familiar faces!

The digital copy of the magazine was made available last week and I was excited to see my handsome baby not only in the article, but on the “What’s Inside” page!

The digital copy of the magazine can be found at: http://www.bluetoad.com/publication/?m=11210&l=1

The article features a picture of Cody with is “James Dean” stare. ;)

My boys…..

It still makes me choke up when I see this picture of my boys. It reminds me of how blind and unconditional love can be. We worried that DJ, 3 years old at the time, would be scared of all the wires and tubes coming out of his brother, but he walked into the ICU room, walked straight to his brother’s bedside and grabbed Cody’s hand and just held on to it. He didn’t ask about the ventilator; he didn’t ask about the tubes or wires. He just stood there holding his brother’s hand.

Step Up for Down Syndrome - 6th Annual DSIA Walk for Down Syndrome

2010-09-27T11:54:00.001-07:00

Our family is excited to be participating in our first Walk for Down Syndrome on October 17th in Sacramento.

If you are local and are considering walking with us, here are the details of the event.

To join Cody’s Gabba Gabba Gang team, visit our team’s home page and click on Join Our Team. We would love to have you join us!!!

If you are not local, but would like to help us raise money for the Down Syndrome Information Alliance, please feel free to donate here or contact Michelle to arrange a donation.

Thank you so much for your support! We have already had some generous donations come in and we GREATLY appreciate it. Cody will be happy to give you all GIGANTIC hugs when he sees you!

We are looking forward to participating in the walk and meeting other families whose children have designer genes like Cody! ;) Don’t worry, there will definitely be pictures posted after the event.

Buddies

2010-09-15T06:00:00.000-07:00

Cody can’t get enough of Lexus. He wakes us up at 6 in the morning some days just to tell us “that’s Lexus!”

We have been VERY lucky to have such a mellow mannered dog. It amazes me how much like Scooter and Xena she is. She has traits from both of them – right down to licking her paws like a cat.

There is only one person that Lexus ever licks. Can you guess who?

A little background on these two-

Lexus is not the puppy that we intended on buying when we went to the breeder. I had already put claims on a black mini schnauzer girl puppy the day before when I went there with just DJ. When we went to see the puppy the next day, Cody came along and wanted nothing to do with the black puppy (Cody does NOT like small dogs).

He kept going up to one particular puppy and even pet her. He had never pet a small dog before or even willingly acknowledged one so this was a huge step for him.

Throughout the visit he kept going back to her.

We had no choice but to choose this little puppy as our “Lexus” and not the black puppy. Apparently, Cody knew something we didn’t because she is such a well-mannered puppy and she is patient with the boys and puts up with their antics.

Cody and Lexus have a special bond (though DJ claims the puppy is his). I constantly find the two of them cuddling up together and he even lays in her bed with her sometimes.

He is saying “that’s Lexus” in this picture. :)

A lot of times, I find them sitting together just like this.

This was supposed to be a picture of just her, but someone managed to get his face in the picture, too. He has been doing a lot of picture bombing lately.

This is the face she gives when she is ready for Cody to stop “playing’ with her. Doesn’t she just look sad???

Picture Day

2010-09-14T15:50:00.001-07:00

DJ was excited to get dressed up for picture day this morning and even willingly let me take pictures of him (a rarity!).

Our handsome boy ready for picture day -

Drawing

2010-09-06T10:49:00.001-07:00

Cody LOVES to draw. I enjoy that he is now starting to draw faces and things are starting to look like what he says they are. =)

One of his favorite games is asking us to draw something so he can guess it. He likes to draw things, too, and have us guess.

This is him asking “what’s this?”

When I don’t guess right, he gives me this “you DON’T know what IT IS?” expression. It makes me laugh every time!

Apparently drawing is exhausting.

This is him signing and telling me I drew a '”pig”. (Please do not look at the drawing. I’m not very good at drawing so it amazes me that Cody knows what I drew!)

Last Day of Summer Fun – Bay Area Discovery Museum

2010-08-23T06:39:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday, we decided to go to the Bay Area Discovery Museum for one last day of fun before both the boys started school. We had never been there before, but since the boys had SO much fun, we will definitely be back!

If you know DJ, you now he LOVES to climb trees. When he found this tree, he couldn’t resist. He spent more time climbing trees than playing in the playground!

Guess who else tried to climb up the tree…but didn’t get it very far…

The boy hanging out in a hut.

Cody even found a friend.

Then needed to rest….

They had a cool area about Space that had stations set up like inside of the space shuttle. DJ took the controls and was ready to blast off…

Then stood in the sleeping bag for a quick nap…

While Cody found the bathroom… (it is not a clear picture, but it is a funny one)

…and he found some space gloves. He even tried to leave the building with them on.

Monkey boy climbed the lookout tower outside.

Then reluctantly posed in front of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Just chillin’ on the shipwrecked boat…

And FINALLY a posed picture where he is happy! DJ tries as much as possible for me to not take pictures of him so I am loving this picture of him!

Mr. Happy boy!

Cody was checking out the view….Actually, he was really yelling “HI!” to the people below and waving at them. ;)

If there is a tree to climb DJ will find. If there is an instrument around, Cody will definitely find it…play it…and dance to it!

Daddy and the boys goofing off in front of the bridge.

A rare picture of me and my boys!

First Day of School

2010-08-16T15:29:00.000-07:00

This may be the smoothest first day of school so far!

The boys were both asleep by bedtime last night, woke up this morning with plenty of time to get ready and without rushing out the door (like last year) and both boys were successfully dropped off at school without tears (including from mom).

DJ is now a 2nd grader and we are excited that he is now in a 2nd/3rd grade combo class. I really don’t know what that all entails, but I am glad that he will now be more challenged. Hopefully, it will not be too overwhelming for him, but he is excited about being able to do 3rd grade work.

Cody is starting his 3rd year of preschool and is very excited to have his teachers as well as his best friends from last year.

Of course the first day of school would not be complete without the mammarazzi hounding the kids before school!

DJ proudly displayed his newly-toothless smile. I CANNOT WAIT to have his school pictures taken with missing teeth!

This year, DJ asked for a “non-character” backpack. He is growing up. SIGH.

His Uncle/GodFather bought him and his brother these super cool Clone Wars tennis shoes. The velcro part is the eyes and lights up when they walk. DJ has been asking for non-character shoes as well, but he couldn’t resist these!

This awesome mask came with the shoes! DJ decided to put it on while getting ready for school.

Cody still tends to be a lot more cooperative when it comes to getting photographed so I had this adorable face looking at me this morning!

Then he started taking pictures of me with my lens cover.

Then….he was done with pictures. This face says it all!

Cody picked out this cool backpack this year. He has not outgrown Yo Gabba Gabba at all, but the Brobie backpack was on its last leg and needed a replacement. When he saw this backpack while Back to School shopping he squealed out “EEEEMO!” I guess that meant he wanted it.

He was eager to pose with his backpack like big brother.

New Cody-Centric Blog

2010-07-18T19:33:00.000-07:00

I have been debating for awhile now and finally decided to.create a blog dedicated to Cody and raising him. The blog will.be Down Syndrome specific and I will share things about our experience from happy to sad to heartbreaking.

If you already follow my photography blog then you have seen some of the "fact Friday" posts about our experiences.

I will be sharing some of those stories and more on the new blog, Down Syndrome Diaries, http://downsyndromediaries.blogspot.com/.

If you have questions, comments or your own story about Down Syndrome to share, I would love to hear it and even maybe share it on the blog.

My hope is that when Cody is able to write he will take over the blog and share life from his perspective.

Cody’s 4th Birthday – Partying Gabba Style

2010-07-18T10:14:00.000-07:00

I am WAY behind in posting the pictures, but here are some fun pictures from Cody’s 4th Birthday Party (in MAY!).

Cody has been a Yo Gabba Gabba fanatic for the last 3 years and we finally had a chance to throw a Yo Gabba Gabba party for him!

The birthday boy was so excited about his party and looking as cool as ever! He added the touch of red sunglasses all on his own.

Big Brother DJ rockin’ the Plex shirt!

This was the best shot of the two of them that I could capture. They were too busy eating chips. :)

The family decked out in Gabba Gear! Yes, DJ is still eating.

Cody with his Uncle and his Uncle’s DJ Lance shirt.

Even the AquaBats made an appearance.

When the jumper showed up, Cody could NOT wait for them to inflate it so he kept a close eye on them through the front door.

As soon as it was inflated, he grabbed Papa and headed into the jumper!

Gabba friends are present and accounted for! (well, not all. Some were hiding).

The birthday boy blowing out his candles.

His least favorite part of the entire event was opening gifts. Odd, right? It took THREE DAYS for him to get through all his gifts. He just wanted the tissue paper and played with the toys through the boxes. :) He is completely opposite of his brother!

I’m Shy

2010-07-14T10:44:00.001-07:00

Cody was going to preschool summer school and because it was a new teacher and new students, he wasn’t quite comfortable for the first few weeks. He wouldn’t eat snacks or play with the other children.

I asked him if it was because he was shy and since then he likes to proclaim he is shy.

Cody's Shy

Happy Birthday To CODY!!!!

2010-05-04T16:10:00.001-07:00

It is hard for me to believe (and accept), but my little baby is 4 today!!!! I don’t ever remembering giving him (or DJ!) permission to get older, yet they both continue to grow too fast.

This is our sweet guy Cody! He is an amazing, strong, loving, curious, silly, funny, huggable, full of life little boy.

This is the face that I get when he says “Mom. Hi”

This is the face when he is singing to himself.

This is the face of the chubby cheeks that I love to bite!

This is the face of someone proud to be “POUR”.

Here is a video of the little cutie telling us how old he is!

How Old Are You Cody?

The Boys

2010-04-27T10:34:00.001-07:00

It has been awhile since I posted pictures of the boys so here are some from the weekend.

Happy Easter – Just a Little Late :)

2010-04-10T10:38:00.001-07:00

The Easter bunny was a little last minute in buying the kids gifts (like 7 pm the night before last minute) and the selection at Target was slim. Fortunately, the bunny found a few items that the kids would enjoy. The Easter Bunny needs to not come from Hawaii days before Easter or shop earlier next year. ;)

Easter morning the stealthy bunny waited until Cody woke up (at 9!) to sneak the boys’ gifts onto their beds.

Cody’s -

DJ’s -

The kids were excited to see what the Easter bunny left behind for them!

Cody is into drawing and the first thing he grabbed was the mini egg shaped Magna Doodle.

DJ, my stuffed animal fanatic, went straight for the duck (appropriately named Eggie).

DJ with his Easter Goods

Cody has always enjoyed Slinkies and thank goodness the plastic ones bounce back to shape quickly. :)

Just like his mommy, Cody is a multi-tasker. :)

Glasses

2010-03-11T23:24:00.001-08:00

Look who got glasses!!!

I love his expression on this one!!!!!! What a big smile!

We are still working on getting him to wear them more. He apparently wears them the entire time he is in school, but refuses to wear them at home. If you have any advice on how to get him to wear them more, we are all ears! :)

Our Little Rockstar

2010-02-24T23:47:00.001-08:00

Cody loves anything music. If he hears a song his little tushy will start moving. If there is a mic he will pick it up to sing. If there is an instrument he will start playing it.

There are 3 toy guitars in our house and at any given time he is toting one of them around.

I walked into the hallway one day to find this…

So I followed him. Little did I know that our little rockstar was going to put on a show for me!

He started with some basic strumming….

Threw in a few lyrics…

Then he really started rockin’ out! Check out these moves!!!

And my FAVORITE move!!!!!

Valentine’s Day

2010-02-16T04:27:00.000-08:00

Cody had a Valentine’s Day party at school on Wednesday and because he is still a die-hard Yo Gabba Gabba fan after 2.5 years so it was only appropriate to make Yo Gabba Gabba Valentine’s for him.

He had a fun party at school and was excited to show me his “Valentine Box” of goodies! He proudly carried it from his classroom to the car and sat in on his lap the whole ride home (with a smile on his face). I had to snap a pic with my phone camera because he was just so cute with it!

This is the coveted box that he made at school. The top is covered in red heart stickers.

When we opened the box to unveil its contents,

he lost interest and moved on. Apparently, he just wanted the covered box. :)

DJ’s Valentine’s party was on Friday so he prepared his Valentine’s all by himself.

He came home with a goody bag, too, and couldn’t wait to look in the bag to see what fun cards and treats he received.

He even had a sweet card for his dad and I.

What I love most is that he said “I know I don’t go by DJ at school, but I asked the teacher if I could sign it “DJ” since that is what you guys call me.” (He goes by Doyle at school – a decision he made when he started kindergarten.)

DJ woke up on Valentine’s Day with a sore throat and fever, but his Valentine goodies made him feel a little better.

Cody was too busy reading the cover of his Blue’s Clue’s Valentine DVD cover to look at the camera for a picture. ;)

DJ Meets Bill “Superfoot” Wallace

2010-02-15T09:01:00.000-08:00

Last weekend, DJ had the opportunity to train with Bill “Superfoot” Wallace. Superfoot was in the area holding a large scale training at a local gymnasium Saturday evening, but DJ’s Taekwondo school had him come in just to train with these guys in the morning. How cool is that?

Doyle, DJ and I did not know who he was but DJ said that he “had” to go to the training day so we signed him up.

Then we “googled” him to find out who he was. Apparently, he’s kind of a big deal in the martial arts world. ;)

We didn’t get any pictures of the training, but the next day was an Open House where the kids could take pictures with Bill Wallace and get his autograph. DJ was REALLY excited about that. Doesn’t he look excited???

Okay, he doesn’t LOOK excited, but he really was. :) He was just recovering from a double ear infection so he wasn’t quite his excited self for the Open House.

I think his daddy was a little excited about it, too, so he even got his old belt signed.

Here the boys are hanging out with Superfoot.

DJ’s autographed picture that will framed and hung in his bedroom.

Tahoe Fun!

2010-02-08T22:46:00.000-08:00

The week of Christmas we decided to take the boys to Tahoe for some snow tubing. DJ had gone before, but this was Cody’s first time and we weren’t sure how he would like it. We were worried that he wouldn’t, but we were wrong!!

Before he had his snow bib and jacket on he was trying to get out of the van to run in the snow. The last time he had been to the snow was when he was 1 so he didn’t enjoy it much back then. This time, he was ready to go!

DJ could hardly move with all the layers on. :)

Their Uncle came along with us and the boys couldn’t wait to throw snowballs at him!

This was Cody’s first time tubing and because he was too small to go on the big runs he had to go by himself on the small run. We thought he would be too scared, but again, we were wrong.

He had SO much fun. He is mad in this picture because I got too tired to pull his almost 40 lb body back up the slope!

DJ is an old pro at tubing and the boy has no fear. He was anxious to go on the big run with the bumps!

He also had his first attempt at making snow angels.

They turned out to look more like snow blobs. :)

And of course, no trip is complete with a picture of DJ jumping off of something. In this case, it was a VW van buried in snow. It was there for the kids to play with apparently because all the kids were more into climbing this thing then tubing!

We Said Goodbye to Scooter

2010-02-05T00:32:00.001-08:00

I could have sworn that I blogged about this already, but I think this was actually what caused me to stop blogging.

I downloaded the pictures from my cell phone the other day and found these. They made me cry all over again.

Last September, our super-loved 7 year old Boxer, Scooter, began tripping and walking into things. That was a Wednesday.

By Friday, he couldn’t stand upright without support. The local vet recommended we take him to UC Davis for further testing.

The next Tuesday we had an appt for him to go to the neurologist at the UC Davis Vet hospital. I couldn’t go to the appointment with Doyle because I really did not want to know what was happening. This was our first “oldest son”. This is the dog that would throw dog toys into DJ’s playpen to help try to stop DJ from crying when he was an infant. This is the dog that would run to whomever was crying to comfort them by laying his head on your lap. The same dog that growled at us at 9 pm if we didn’t stop talking and let him go to sleep. The dog that weighed 92 pounds yet thought he was a lap dog.

I vividly remember the call from Doyle. The neurologist believed that Scooter had a brain tumor. His quick deterioration was not a good sign. We knew what the next step had to be, but we prolonged it.

He came home and cuddled with his favorite goose. (We had to put his snow boots on him to help him walk around the house. It had “grippies” on the bottom and helped prevent him from sliding on the floor.)

We babied him. We always have. Even the kids babied him.

Cody could see all the attention that we were giving Scooter and I am sure he knew something was wrong. Every chance he had he would go up to Scooter and hug him.

It was heartbreaking to see the misery in Scooter’s eyes. He never made a peep to show he was in pain, but you could see it in his eyes that he just wasn’t the same.

We had scheduled an appointment for him for Friday to put him to sleep because it was to the point that he couldn’t stand, sit or lay down without falling over and needing assistance.

Thursday night, we all said our goodbyes to Scooter. (This is making me cry all over again!) I grabbed my camera phone and started snapping away as all my boys bonded one last time.

The most heartbreaking of it all was DJ. We found him laying in his bed with the covers over his head silently crying. When we asked him why he was crying all he could say was “I’m going to miss him”. Throughout the week, DJ had not said a word to us about Scooter. He wouldn’t even talk about it. It broke our hearts to see him so upset about it.

We asked him if he wanted to lay with Scooter and cuddle with him one last time. The two have been sharing Scooter’s bed since DJ could crawl. Even within the last year we would find DJ (and now Cody) laying in Scooter’s bed with him.

Our poor guy fell asleep crying next to Scooter.

Even Xena came over to say goodbye. These two slept together every night. We usually found her in his bed instead of her own.

We haven’t gotten used to either of them being gone. (Especially since we still find their hair laying around the house and Scooter’s hair in the car! :) ) The house is quiet without Xena constantly meowing at us. There is no dog’s head on my lap to comfort me as I grieve for them. Yes, they are pets, but more than anything they were part of our family.

We miss Scooter and Xena A LOT and even made sure they celebrated Christmas with us

So Hard to Say Goodbye

2010-02-04T10:37:00.000-08:00

The last few months have been hard. We were still overwhelmed with the loss of Scooter.

The week before Christmas, Xena started to have seizures. She had never had them before so it was alarming. They had began on a Monday and were fairly mild. They progressively got worse.

By Thursday, I had called the vet to set an appointment up for her on Friday because she was having them more frequently. It was scary to watch and we worried that the boys would see her have an episode. She must have had their best interest in mind because she always had them in a room that the boys weren’t in.

As we put her into the car that Friday to go the vet, she had another seizure. This time she screamed. She hadn’t done that before.

By the time we took her to the vet she was blind, in a daze, and not responding to our voices. We had no choice….

We miss her a lot, too, and wish that her and Scooter were still here.

The doctors aren’t sure what happened to her, but I honestly think she had broken heart. She and Scooter were best friends for 7 years and after he was gone, she was always looking for him. If we walked in a door, she looked behind us for him. If we opened the sliding door to the backyard, she looked at his “potty spot” to see if he was there. I think she missed him more than any of us did.

Here are some pictures of the day before Xena left our family.

She looked fine and healthy in spite of the seizures.

I love this one. Cody used to torment her daily and she would put up with it pretty well. I think he knew something was wrong with her because that day, he was being pretty loving.

New Member of the Family

2010-02-02T22:35:00.001-08:00

Last September, we were sad to say goodbye to our oldest “son” Scooter. Not a day goes by that we don’t think of him.

Up until last month, my desktop on my laptop was Scooter’s picture and every time Cody would see it he would yell at Scooter to come out of the screen. Even he misses Scooter.

Doyle kept saying that the best way to heal from Scooter was to get a new puppy. I didn’t want a new puppy. I wanted Scooter!!!

The boys started looking for miniature schnauzers. We were worried about Cody because he is not too fond of small dogs. We went to visit a family with 4 week old mini schnauzer puppies and although I had already picked out an all black one, Cody kept going back to a salt and pepper one and petting it. The other puppies he would just tap their head with one finger while this one puppy he would whole-handedly pet. We decided to get her instead of the black puppy.

We visited her weekly at her breeder’s to feed her and get her used to our sent. The boys looked forward to the visits (though I think Doyle looked forward to them even more than the kids!).

This is the first day we met her. She was so tiny!

DJ loved (and still loves) to cuddle with her. If you lay her on her back and cradle her she wraps her two front paws around your hand.

The proud “dad” (he wanted to be her daddy, which made us the grandparents – NOT COOL!) of his 5 week old puppy.

Even Cody held her (at 6 weeks) and that amazed us that he really liked her.

On Dec 3rd, she was finally old enough to come home with us! She was wrapped with a bow and everything.

The proud daddy was so excited to come home from school to find her waiting for him.

We are excited to have Lexus part of our family. The boys love her and I find them cuddling with her constantly. She is a great puppy that we know Scooter would have loved!

She enjoyed her first Christmas with us and received quite a few gifts. Most of them have already been torn apart and have been thrown away. :)

This was taken last week. Isn’t she a sweetheart?

Playing Catch Up – Our Taekwondo Green Belt

2010-01-28T21:25:00.001-08:00

We are so proud of DJ! Although I am so far behind in blogging that I didn’t blog his last belt ceremony, I am happy to announce that DJ just got promoted to Green Belt tonight!!! We are so proud of him and excited that he is still enjoying Taekwondo.

Next Saturday he is going to be training with Bill “Superfoot” Wallace. (I didn’t know who he was so I had to Google him.) Apparently, he’s pretty famous and DJ practically begged to train with him when he found out he was coming to his Taekwondo class to train his group! I’ll be posting pictures after the training. =)

Oh and I am going to be blogging out of order for awhile to catch you up on the two boys. They have been pretty busy! :)

Our Family's Portrait Session

2009-12-09T22:47:00.000-08:00

For the first time since DJ was about 2 or 3 years old, we FINALLY got our family portraits taken. This is the first time Cody is included in our family portraits so I think this officially makes him a permanent fixture in our family. =)

We headed out to the Wooden Valley Winery with the awesomely talented Sharon of Homegrown Photography.

True to form, my boys wanted NOTHING to do with a camera! I can't imagine why. It isn't like they have had a camera on them almost daily for all of their lives. =)

Sharon was able to hold their attention and capture some beautiful expressions on my boys faces. DJ, of course, had to throw in his "cheese" smile. He's so funny!

I was going to post another family picture, but you will just have to wait for our Christmas card instead.

Look at my little stud muffin! He's so cute!!!!

At the end of our session, Cody found a twig and decided to draw on the dirt. He had an elaborate story about what he was drawing and in his own little language shared that story with Sharon.

Sharon stole Doyle and I for a few couple shots. This is my favorite! (For those that haven't seen his hair yet, YES, Doyle is now blonde!!!)

Halloween 2009

2009-12-01T13:21:00.001-08:00

This Halloween DJ decided to be a Ninja. Not a red one like a few years ago, but a “different” Ninja because it was BLUE and black, not RED and black. =)

I don’t think I would want to mess with this Ninja!!!!

Because Cody prefers to not have anything on his head or face we had a difficult time finding a costume for him. When I saw this Pirate costume I knew it was perfect. BUT because he would not wear the hat people thought he was a Gondola driver. HAHA I should have bought him an oar to carry around. =)

I’m not sure what pose this is, but apparently this is how mean, savage pirates pose when you ask them to pose.

Cody with his Uncle.

At school, Cody had a costume party. They had crafts, trick-o-treated, enjoyed a haunted house, and munched on pizza, chips and cupcakes. By the look on his face, I would say he enjoyed the pizza. =)

DJ’s Spirit Day – Pajama Day

2009-11-30T16:50:00.001-08:00

I am just a LITTLE behind on blogging – by about 2 months. =)

Because kids at DJ’s school are not allowed to dress up for Halloween, they had a spirit day instead. For Spirit Day they had Pajama Day.

Here is my little “Bumblebee”. =) Isn’t he so cute that you just want to pinch his cheeks? =)

Cody’s First Field Trip

2009-11-04T17:07:00.001-08:00

Cody recently had his first field trip for school to the Vegetable Patch.

He fell asleep in the car right before we go there so he was not happy when I woke him up. He’s mad at me in this picture, but he is still so cute! I love how he has his thumb in his pocket. Such a tough little guy. =) And yes…those are snow boots he is wearing. I couldn’t find any rain boots for him to wear at Target so he ended up with snow boots. =)

With his “veggie collector” bag on his back, he was ready to go!

They started out by collecting greens and tomotoes. Cody didn’t much care for collecting either. He just wanted the “balls” (tomatoes) so he could throw them. He’s such a boy!!! Here he is with his bounty of goodies.

They even got to plant their own seeds.

After the learning experience, they had a little picnic at the Veggie Patch’s pumpkin patch. Cody loved snacking on popcorn and drinking juice

…but apparently got bored after awhile. I LOVE this picture of him. It is as if he is in deep thought!

The last event of the day was posing for Ms. Sarah with some pumpkins. He kept signing ball and knocking over the pumpkins. =)

A Trip to the Pumpkin Patch

2009-10-29T15:19:00.001-07:00

We didn’t get to go to the Pumpkin Patch last year since Cody spent much of last fall and winter sick with an ear infection.

This year, however, we made sure to visit the Cool Patch Pumpkins Pumpkin Patch.

The first thing we thought when we got there was “this isn’t a pumpkin patch. Where are the rides? The petting zoo? The CEMENT?”

Can you tell we are a bit citified and not used to a “real”, cut-you-own-pumpkin-of-the-vine pumpkin patch? We are used to the kind in San Diego. You know, the one at the mall! =)

We saw small pumpkins…

and HUGE pumpkins.

Cody even tried to pick his own pumpkin.

The boys had a fun time checking out all the cool things this pumpkin patch had. From the teepees to the mini houses, the boys had a blast!

DJ really wanted to check out their corn maze, but the giant one had been torn apart by the previous week’s storm. Parts of the mini corn maze were still standing so the boys went through it. DJ loved it…

….Cody – not so much.

Can you see just how “thrilled” he was about the corn maze?????? =)

I probably should have taken these next pictures at the beginning of the visit. They may have been more cooperative.

By this point they were both wired and didn’t want to sit still. These are the best of the bunch. =)

Lately, Cody has been such a love bug and has been giving his brother LOTS of unexpected kisses. He is SO sweet. =)

It’s Hulk Smash Time!!!

2009-10-27T16:36:00.001-07:00

Last year DJ received the game Hulk Smash. He happened to find it in his closet (yes, I was hiding it! shhhh!).

When I agreed to play with him he was ecstatic. Isn’t he cute? =)

The object of the game is to try to get a “Smash” card and smash your opponents play-doh game piece. That was DJ’s favorite part of the game – the smashing – and for some reason, he always got the Smash card!

Here’s how you play….

You make a vehicle with play doh and place it on the game board.

Then you roll the dice and move your character that many spaces, BUT if one of the dice has a fist on it, you get to draw a card.

If your card looks like this then you get the honor of smashing up any of your opponents vehicles that land on the color position you choose.

So what is the reason behind this blog?

Well…I want you to see what pride my son takes in SMASHING my game piece!

(Evil laugh included…)

The end result is my clay ambulance being smooshed until it is unrecognizable.

Doesn’t he look proud of himself? =)

Crazy Hair and Clothes Day

2009-10-22T13:16:00.001-07:00

Last month, Cody had Crazy Hair and Clothes day at his preschool.

I think it would be pretty safe to say that if we let Cody pick his clothes out this would probably be his ideal, bright outfit.

His hair was getting long so it was only appropriate to spike it up for the crazy hair affect. Sometimes, he actually looks like this when he wakes up and I think it’s cute. =)

Getting his hair this way was not easy. He didn’t want to be interrupted while playing so he kept running away from his dad.

I like his “I will push you away if you don’t move” tactic.

He looks pretty darn cute with his Dragonball Z inspired hairdo.

Here he is in his “Crazy Hair and Clothes” glory.

While at school, they received a face painting as well as had a color treatment on their hair. I was pretty sure that Cody would not participate since he does not like face painting nor his hair messed with.

I was VERY surprised to see this when we picked him up…

He loved his Blue hair and star painted face. He looked like a Rock Star!

October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month –Photography Special – Please pass it on!

2009-10-16T13:29:00.001-07:00

October is Down Syndrome awareness month and to honor the light of our lives, Cody…

I would like to extend a special to families that have been blessed with children with Down Syndrome.

When you have a child with Special Needs so much of your heart is given to them. You forget about yourself and want nothing more than to give your child an equal opportunity at everything and to make them feel “normal” in a society that is quick to judge, quick to feel sorry for them (when there is no need to!), and for them to build a confidence to ensure they can do ANYTHING they put their mind to. Statistics mean nothing when you are a parent of a special needs child. For me, at least, my child will not be a statistic because the only one that Cody has to be compared against is, well, Cody. =)

If you are a parent that has a child with Down Syndrome I would like to offer you a

Complimentary 30 minute session with an 8x10 print

The session also includes:

Location of your choice
Online viewing and ordering of your images for 2 weeks

Please feel free to forward this special to friends and family that have a child with Down Syndrome.

This offer ends October 31st, 2009.

Also, 10% of all sessions and print orders this month will be donated to the National Down Syndrome Society.

1st Grade

2009-08-19T20:29:00.001-07:00

It is hard to believe that DJ is already a 1st grader. The Kindergarten year flew by and as of August 3rd, DJ is officially a 1st grade and going to school all day!

We worried about how he would do going to school all day since Kinder was only 3 hours, but he seemed to adjust fine.

He was VERY excited about going to school and even woke up extra early that day.

Here is our big 1st grader making silly faces for the camera.

DJ is not big on eating breakfast so I was surprised when he asked for some to start his day. His breakfast of choice? Bagel Bites!!

Last year for his 1st day of school, I baked him a cake. This year, I didn’t have as much time so instead he got a Spongebob surprise….

Our Little Artist

2009-08-12T23:13:00.001-07:00

Both our boys love to draw. Lately, though, Cody has been quite the artist. I have a pink laptop with black pens marks to prove it. =)

Every time he is in my craft room, he signs and yells “paper” and signs for crayons. The funny thing is that he is picky about the color, too. It has to be either purple, red, orange or black. He isn’t too keen on greens and blues for some reason.

Here is the little artist at work…

He’s probably thinking about what his next masterpiece should be. Although, that smile is usually reserved for mischief. =)

Do you see how his lips are sticking out in the next picture? He seems to have a “thinking” face and sound. He does it quite often and it is cute.

There is no real purpose for this next image other than the fact that I love his Barni Rubble feet.

He loves to try to trace his hand.

The proud artist…

and his masterpiece…

Marine World

2009-07-26T15:02:00.001-07:00

Last week, the boys, Teri and I went on a field trip to Marine World! The boys were so excited since they hadn’t been there since last year. We were worried the lines would be long on all the rides and shows, but it was oddly slow for a summer day. We didn’t mind, though!

The boys waiting to get in. It’s not a great picture, but I just like that DJ is wearing his sunglasses and hat!

DJ enjoyed petting a snake…

and pygmy goat…

Then he met up with some old friends.

DJ and Teri riding Orca.

I’m not sure why, but Cody LOVES spinning rides. As soon as we got on this one, he was all smiles!!! I even tried to stop the thing from spinning by holding on to the middle pole, but Cody pushed my hands off of it so that it would spin more! Silly boy!

DJ loved being in the cartoon area. They had Bugs’ house and he was on top of it dancing to the park’s music. He did stop dancing long enough to take a picture with Bugs’ mailbox on top of his house, though.

Cody’s favorite was Bugs’ bed…

…chair…

and TV….

He kept asking me to turn the TV on! haha

The boys did what they do best and climbed on everything.

They even tried to pick the “carrots” out of the ground! =)

Cody is finally getting old enough to enjoy the animals and not be afraid of them. He LOVED the sharks!!! He even tried to pet them through the glass.

These sharks were all piled up on top of each other and Cody kept yelling “go” to them. I guess he didn’t want them sleeping.

We had a chance to check out the new Odin’s Temple tiger show. The boys really enjoyed this show.

Did you know that tigers swim??? We didn’t!

DISNEYLAND!!!!

2009-07-10T06:14:00.000-07:00

For DJ’s 6th birthday, we took an eventful trip to Disneyland. We had a great time and can’t wait to go again.

The first day visiting the park, some of the San Diego cousins met us and surprised DJ . DJ was excited to be reunited with his BFF, Kacy. She is more like an older sister to him than a cousin. It was great to see them together again!

Sharon and Kat goofing around with Goofy!

The 3 Goofy kids hanging out with their mascot. (Cody wanted NOTHING to do with the Disney characters.)

Cody walked around with a monkey on his back the whole trip. =)

Cody met Mickey and loved him.

The trio hanging out at Toon Town.

Reunited and it feels so good…..Miss you ladies!!!!!!

We couldn’t help but ask Teri to stand next to the pencil sign! =)

What’s a trip to Disneyland without Mickey Ears!!!

More of the kids…

We miss you San Diegans and hope to see you all again!!!!!!

Congratulations, DJ!

2009-07-09T06:28:00.000-07:00

He’s growing up.

Last month, DJ graduated from Kindergarten. His days of half-day school, having a playground just for their grade, and “easy” homework are over.

His class had a ceremony for the graduates and family and friends were invited.

The graduates were even honored with a “diploma” and graduation picture.

Next month, he will be a 1st grader. We know he is ready for it and we are SO proud of him.

Kindergarten was a lot of fun for him and he did so well in school. He boasts about his reading level (28) and that he can read at a 2nd grade level. YEAH DJ!

At the end of the program, the class sang the “I Like Myself” song. Can you tell which kid was too cool to sing? =)

Our proud graduate…

DJ with his BFF, Marella.

I am really going to miss his teacher. She is so patient with the kids and really motivated DJ. We will miss you Mrs. F!!!!! See you around the big playground next year!

Class of 2009….

A Trip to Washington

2009-07-06T20:54:00.001-07:00

June was a busy month full of trips. My 2nd trip of the month and the family’s 1st trip of the month was to Washington for our nephew, Sean's, high school graduation.

It was a 10 hour car ride, but the kids did GREAT! No one cried, fought, or got bored. Cody was busy watching Yo Gabba Gabba on the DVD player and DJ was alternating between video games and watching TV and an occasional text to family members to let them now where he was.

We had not been back to Washington/Oregon in 4 years so it was nice to be back to see family.

Cody even introduced his Gabba friends to family members. He even got Grandma Neen (Papa Richard’s sister) to play with him.

Aside from playing with his cousins, DJ’s favorite part of the trip was getting to hang out with this girl…

Her name is Bella. I called her Bella Ballerina and DJ referred to her as “dog piggy”. He soon dropped that name and started calling her Bellerina. =)

The 3rd night there, we went to Sean’s graduation. Uncle Robert helped keep Cody busy before the ceremony by walking back and forth down the aisle with him. Cody LOVED that. He really enjoyed spending time with his Uncle Robert and Aunt Michelle.

CONGRATULATIONS SEAN!!!!

The graduate…

Each evening we enjoyed a fire at the fire pit. The boys thought it was the coolest thing. =) Surprisingly, they didn’t even try to touch it! =)

Cousin Jack served as our Fire Pit mastered and lit the fire up for some smores!

Cody enjoying the fire…

DJ enjoying a smore…

The last stop before heading home was to Pine State Biscuits in Portland. Doyle had seen it on one of our favorite shows, Diners, Drive-ins and Dives, so we had to check it out.

It was DE-LICIOUS! Their Reggie is the best. If you are in Portland be sure to check them out!

LATE POST - Happy 6th Birthday, DJ Baby!

2009-06-24T06:00:00.000-07:00

This post was scheduled to go up on his birthday, but for some reason didn't...so this is a week late...

----------------------------

My big baby boy is 6. Isn’t there a way to slow their growing down? I’m still scrapbooking his first year so it’s not possible that he is 6!!!

When I told him it was his 6th birthday photo shoot time, he was excited and couldn’t wait to get started. I was shocked, but ecstatic that he was so willing.

We headed to the backyard while Cody napped and got some great shots.

He was such a willing participate and in 10 minutes we were done! =) I am happy with what we got. This is the first time in a long time that he wasn’t in a hurry for the session to end! Thanks, buddy! =)

He is goofy like his mommy! =)

Of course, a birthday can’t go by without a picture with the blue bear. To see previous years, check last year’s post.

Happy Birthday baby boy! You are such a smart, young boy and you make your mom and dad so proud of you. WE LOVE YOU BABY BOY!!!!!!

A Day at the Farm

2009-06-23T09:55:00.000-07:00

Last week was DJ’s first field trip. They took a trip to a farm!

They were most excited about riding on a bus more than anything else.

This is DJ with his best buddy, Marella. They have known each other since they were itty bitty so it was great that they enjoyed their first year of school together.

Marella’s mom pointed that you can see DJ’s reflection in the window. Cool, huh?

When we got to the farm, the kids listened to a brief presentation regarding the rules of the farm. Don’t they all look so bored?

Even Cody wasn’t feeling it.

He did enjoy sitting on the logs like the big kids, though.

The first stop was the bunny cages. The loved petting the soft bunnies.

Cody didn’t want anything to do with the bunnies.

Then they moved on to the goats…

Then to pet some baby ducks…

Then the pigs…

But got side tracked by a dog…

Then off to the sheep…

While Cody did some off-road action with daddy…

There were peacocks roaming free throughout the farm. That was my favorite part.

And the most exciting animal that my group saw was….are you ready for this exotic animal that captivated their attention????

Yes, a cat!!!!!! And because this cat was sitting in the green house in a tray with plants that are for sale, there was a sign behind the cat that said “$2”. DJ asked us if he could buy the cat because it was only $2! HAHA

When we asked DJ what his favorite part of the farm was he said “petting the cat”. Ya, DJ, that is what a farm is all about…the cats! =)

Meet 200

2009-06-22T06:08:00.000-07:00

We have a new member in our family. He is only a few months old.

Meet 200…

Yes, that really is the bird’s name. It stays in theme with DJ’s odd naming conventions (our leopard gecko is named Danger Cookie, he wanted us to name Cody “9 o’clock and the next dog we get will apparently be named Mr. Pickles or Shrimp).

200 is an Indian Ringneck. We got him from my dad who breeds them and cockatiels. We weren’t expecting to get a bird again, but DJ convinced Papa to give him one.

Actually, he offered papa $200 for the bird even though papa was selling them for less. =) By the way, that is how the bird got his name. DJ never paid his papa, though, so the bird’s name should really be Zero or Freebie. =)

Photography Workshop Assignment

2009-06-21T09:30:00.000-07:00

I have said it many times before…my children are definitely the hardest for me to photograph. I think it is because they are so used to having a camera in front of them that they are growing tired of it….NAH! =)

One of our assignments before my recent workshop was to photograph a subject for 15-20 minutes and list what came easy and what didn’t come easy.

Because DJ was in school, I chose Cody for this assignment.

He had woken up grumpy and characteristic of his new 3 year old behavior, he wanted nothing to do with my camera.

These are all SOOC (straight out of the camera) so the lighting is not optimum. BUT I do like how it kind of reflects the mood that he was in.

He is signing for milk here. =)

As angry as he is at me, isn’t this such a sweet face?

Even when he’s mad he’s cute…

And then he got tired of me and just left. =) Ah…to be 3 again!!!!

TBall Awards Ceremony

2009-06-19T14:01:00.001-07:00

After refusing to play TBall and mommy secretly signing him up, DJ’s TBall season is over….and he had a great time!

The end of the session included an award ceremony and BBQ.

They also enjoyed games prior to the award ceremony. Here DJ is in action…

You know the game where you have to spin around with your head attached to a bat? Well, DJ kind of cheated. Instead of spinning around the bat, he spun the bat while he stood still!!! HAHA

After correcting his technique, DJ took the wobbly run back to the dugout.

DJ was SO excited to get his first trophy ever.

And the boys showed off their trophies to each other.

And then the bobblehead trophy sword fight started

It was bound to happen, right?

He is now excited to join tball or baseball next season. Thank goodness for him he inherited his dad’s natural athletic abilities. =)

My ABBA Stars

2009-06-18T14:57:00.001-07:00

Last week I heard the boys yelling and thought they were fighting.

They weren’t. This is what I found…

They had taken the PS3 microphones out and were having a sing off. The mics weren’t attached to anything, but they were still singing their little lungs out.

When I asked DJ what was going on, he said they were being “ABBA Stars”. Yes…my sons know who ABBA is.

DJ didn’t want to be photographed, but Cody didn’t mind. =)

Cody with the double mic action.

And with dancing action…I think he was playing the air guitar here.

This one is blurry, but I just wanted to show that even the Wii nunchuck was used as a microphone. =)

Long live ABBA!

Bubble Boys

2009-06-02T17:18:00.001-07:00

DJ and Cody both love bubbles! They can’t get enough of them and every chance they get, they want to be in the backyard blowing bubbles.

I decided to take pictures of them one day. Check out DJ’s mad bubble skillz… =)

And the entire time DJ was blowing bubbles, Cody was busy running from the camera. It’s not like I am always taking pictures of him! Why is he running away from me????

The “Codnado” in true tornado form…

Doesn’t he look like he is just burned out from always having a camera in front of him? I can’t imagine why! =)

I love how calm he appears in this picture. He was taking a break from running from me.

Happy Birthday Cody Baby!

2009-05-10T09:49:00.001-07:00

It’s bitter sweet.

He’s 3.

He’s not a baby anymore. I don’t remember giving him permission to not be a baby anymore!!!!

On May 4th, Cody turned 3! It’s hard to believe that our baby is already 3.

And it is not an official birthday until the picture with the Blue Bear happens! (I really intend to make them do this until they are 18!)

Even at 3 he knows this is getting to not be cute! HAHA

Because Cody is having surgery soon for ear tubes and tear duct probing, we cancelled his birthday party. The doctor suggested he not get a cold or the surgery will be cancelled so this was the best for him.

Today, we had a small celebration with the family.

He was so excited about his cake.

He was even more excited about the singing for him….or scared… =)

He could not wait to blow the candle out. He had a hard time at first and it took awhile to finally get it blown out.

He tried….

and tried….

…and tried…

And finally blew it out…

He enjoyed it so much he wanted it lit again so he could keep blowing it out. =)

Happy 3rd Birthday Cody Baby!

2009-05-06T22:19:00.001-07:00

Short blog post…I just wanted to share some pictures from Cody’s quick portrait session today…

He’s so handsome! =) And I’m not just saying that because I’m his mom!

He is signing “more” because he wanted more bubbles… It was my trick to get him to sit still. :)

He loves his bubbles!

Western Railway Museum

2009-04-21T01:04:00.001-07:00

Last week we finally got a chance to go to the Western Railway Museum in Rio Vista. We had been wanting to go there since last year, but never had a chance so the kids and I were excited to go and we took Teri with us.

This is the train we rode. Since Cody is a train fanatic and DJ is a recovering train fanatic, they were VERY excited to ride the train.

It was a 10 mile ride that lasted an hour. Cody loved every moment of it and didn’t want to sit down. He was so busy looking out the window the entire time.

Each time the train would stop, Cody would yell “GO!” to the conductor. It was pretty funny! He was so excited about the ride he was impatient about the stops.

DJ, on the other hand, talked Teri’s ear off about his Pokemon video game adventures. I don’t think he got to see much of the sites. He did enjoy seeing baby sheep, though.

Something outside caught his eye and he couldn’t stop pointing at it!

It was DJ! He and Teri had taken advantage of the train’s stop at the middle of the ride. Cody and I stayed on the train. A view of DJ from the train’s window.

And there is Teri taking our picture! =)

As soon as the train had reversed and we were back on our way to the train station, the rocking motion of the train started to get to Cody….

He fell asleep for the rest of the ride.

While Cody slept, DJ had a great time exploring the beautiful park area near the station. If you look closely, you will see rocks in his hands. He collected them along the way. They may still be sitting in Teri’s camera bag.

There was a really odd shaped tree in the picnic area. DJ enjoyed climbing it

…then needed a break…

Cody woke up while we were at the picnic area. He was all smiles from his cat nap.

DJ is already planning for anther trip to the train station so he can show his daddy the place.

First Day of TBall

2009-04-15T22:22:00.001-07:00

DJ was pretty excited about his first day of Tball Practice. We were worried that it would get rained out again because it started sprinkling on our way there.

Fortunately, the rain stopped. It was FREEZING, but that didn’t stop DJ’s excitement.

He reluctantly allowed me to take pictures of him before practice started. He was probably embarrassed about being the only kid with his own paparazzi following him.

Unlike the last time we tried to get him involved with T-ball, he wasn’t resistant or shy and jumped right into it.

Thank goodness for him he is a natural athlete like his dad. =)

He wasn’t too thrilled with not getting to smack the ball far off the T and we had to remind him it was only the first day of practice.

Next, they practiced ground balls. Do you like daddy’s professional series tball attire? =) He had come straight from work and because it was 55 degrees and there was a really cold wind, he kept his motorcycle gear on.

This boy’s arm scares me. When he throws to us, it hurts our hands – even with a glove on.

His first “game” is next week. He can’t wait.

Explorit Science Center

2009-04-14T21:50:00.001-07:00

Last week, the kids and I took a field trip to Davis’ Explorit Science Center. They had a lot of fun with all the experiments.

The first station was one of their favorites. It was a rotating plate that they placed balls and other objects on to see how the rotating plate affected their movement.

They both didn’t want to leave this table.

DJ really enjoyed making his own car ramp and seeing how far he could make the cars go.

Their absolute favorite station was the air tube. They placed items at the bottom of the tube (above a fan) and the objective was to see which items (heavier or lighter) floated.

They both couldn’t stop laughing watching items fly through the tube.

DJ had the chance to create his first domino formation to knock down.

And my absolute favorite picture from the day – DJ and his new buddy.

Our Little T-Ball Player

2009-04-14T21:24:00.001-07:00

Other than martial arts, DJ has not wanted to play any sports. Figuring he (and mommy) would benefit from him playing sports and burning energy, mommy secretly signed him up for T-Ball. He didn’t find out until a couple of days before the first practice was scheduled.

Last week, practice was cancelled due to rain, but we went to go pick up his uniform.

We were VERY excited to find out that he was going to represent his birth place!

DJ is a SAN DIEGO PADRE!!!!!!!!

Our Boys

2009-03-18T16:51:00.001-07:00

I have mentioned before just how hard it is for me to get DJ in front of the camera and willing to take pictures.

Today, I set up the indoor studio because I needed to practice taking headshots for a session this weekend.

DJ was MORE than willing to take pictures! Mostly because Cody was trying to get his picture taken first.

Here are the many faces of DJ.

He looked so handsome just posing for me!

Then he got silly…

Then he was flirty…

Then he got serious…as in “seriously mom, are you not done yet?”

Then he was modelesque..

And my favorite picture from today…I am just melting into his eyes!

After DJ got off the studio, my other son jumped in….

Scooter patiently waited for his turn then as soon as DJ was done, he walked onto the backdrop and sat down waiting for his picture to be taken.

Cody wasn’t as cooperative today. He had his favorite stuffed animal, Brobie, in his hands and couldn’t wait to for me to be done. He’s still cute, though! =)

Diaper Changing

2009-03-04T15:32:00.000-08:00

Cody has lately been showing signs of ready to be potty trained. He does like to sit on the potty (usually with clothes on) and has had a couple of successes that he is proud of.

He also likes to change his toys' diapers a lot.

The other day, I saw him go back and forth to get diapers. I thought he needed a diaper change so I followed him to the couch.

Apparently, HE wasn't the one needing changing. Todee and Muno did!! I like how they have one under each of them then they are sharing the one on top of them. :)

Our Yo Gabba Gabba fanatic with his Gabba friends while wearing a Gabba sweatshirt to watch Gabba on TV.

Monterey – Day Three – More Pictures and More Aquarium

2009-02-20T15:35:00.000-08:00

After dropping Doyle off at work (sorry again, Doyle), we drove down to a beautiful strip along the beach. There were beautiful, large homes and right across the street from them was the ocean.

The boys were pretty excited to be outside (even though it was colder this morning) and Cody took off running as soon as he stepped foot on grass. The poor guy dove face first into the wet grass. That is why he is in a jacket for the pictures. His whole right side was wet. In this picture you can kind of see that his hair is still wet. He didn’t mind, though. He still kept running!

I like how they are both looking in completely opposite directions – at dirt.

Again, the bribe…I mean deal, was to let mommy take pictures of them before walking around and then going to the aquarium. They were so cooperative. They really wanted to go back to the aquarium.

I told the boys to do a fake laugh and I think Cody got carried away.

Aren’t they cute sitting together enjoying the waves? In reality, Cody is kind of yelling because DJ has one arm behind him and the other in front of him. Cody didn’t appreciate being held in lockdown position. =)

This one I love. They look so endearing and like they get along ALL the time. I think this one needs to be enlarged and framed. That way when they are fighting, I can point to the picture and say “Stop fighting! SEE you guys LOVE each other!”

I couldn’t figure out why Cody kept pointing while I was taking their picture. Then I turned around and figured out why. He was saying…

“Look at that HUGE wave!”

One of my challenges lately has been to get DJ to be more natural in front of the camera. He loves to make faces and make “fake smiles” even though I tell him not to smile. This picture was taking while I used one of his own favorite knock-knock jokes.

This one asked for his picture to be taken. Oh and his hair isn’t sticking up…it was windy. Um, ya, it was windy – I’m sticking with that story!

Of course, a trip to the beach has to include rock climbing.

Even Cody got involved.

After walking around town to window shop, we finally headed to the aquarium. DJ had 2 priorities:

Otters…

and the octopus…he was in that same position when we were there yesterday.

Our little pearls!

DJ and his otter buddies.

We have to go home tomorrow. =( We aren’t ready to leave.

Monterey – Day Two – Boys’ Pictures and the Aquarium

2009-02-19T15:48:00.001-08:00

(Note: for those subscribed to the photography blog, too, there are more different pictures posted here too…don’t worry – it’s not the same identical post. (*smile*)

DJ was SO excite for today that as soon as he woke up at 7, he asked if we could head out to the aquarium. Too bad they didn’t open until 10! =)

It was a beautiful morning so after dropping Doyle off at work (sorry, hon) we dropped the car off at the garage and headed out to walk around town before the aquarium opened.

Part of the deal for today was that the boys let me take their picture BEFORE we enjoyed the Aquarium. Okay…it was more of blackmail than a deal, but it worked for me! =)

My favorite picture from today…doesn’t that just yell – I’M HAVING SOOOO MUCH FUN IN MONTEREY!!!

DJ was more into jumping on rocks than sitting on them. I think he stopped at every set of rocks to jump them. According to him, he is practicing to be one of those “urban runners” or whatever you call them – those guys that run and jump off buildings and cliffs and stuff.

It was a nice change of weather from the COLDness of Fairfield. By afternoon, we shed our jackets and were comfortable.

Once the aquarium opened, we had to first stop by the penguin area because feeding was scheduled for 1030.

DJ enjoyed watching the penguins anxious to be fed. Cody yelled at the penguins whenever they swam past him. I think he thought they were trying to get his goldfish crackers.

My little penguins in a penguin egg.

Cody using the telescope…it’s above you, buddy!

We saw some really cool animals!

This one intrigued us – the Sun Fish. It sure was ugly! The commentator referred to it as “the fish that looks like just a head and someone forgot to give him a body”. =)

The kids loving playing in the play area of the aquarium. Look at Cody’s expression – SO excited!

DJ could not wait to touch animals!!!! He really wanted to touch a bat ray, but they were all staying away from everyone. Instead, he enjoyed petting starfish.

We are going back to the aquarium tomorrow…so stay tuned for more pictures!!

Monterey – Day One

2009-02-19T15:12:00.001-08:00

We are on our first family mini-vacation in Northern California. Well….the kids and I are enjoying ourselves while hubby has to work here. =)

We arrived yesterday and after checking in, went to The Fish Hopper as recommended by our cousin, Chris.

Thanks, Chris! The food was DELICIOUS!!!!

Shh….don’t tell my Weight Watchers group, but my meal was crab stuffed prawns and scallops over asparagus and a portabello mushroom risotto.

Hubby had Abalone and Scallops over a bed of spinach on mashed potatoes.

Cody enjoyed a gourmet meal of grilled cheese and fries. DJ’s fancy dinner (he didn’t want his picture taken because he was chowing down) consisted of a cheese pizza and fries. My boys know fine dining! =)

Afterwards, we walked back to our hotel room, but enjoyed some of the “tourist spots” first.

Student of the Week – DJ’s About Me Poster

2009-02-19T14:50:00.001-08:00

Each week someone in DJ’s class takes turn being student of the week. DJ is the student of the week for this week.

He did this same poster in preschool, but he was very proud that he could now write and draw for this poster so mommy only “helped” with this one.

He came up with his own answers and told me what he needed to decorate that block. It was interesting to see how much of his answers had changed in a year.

Maybe I will look for the preschool one and post it on here too. =)

Any guesses as to what the animal is???

This one is Doyle and I’s favorite. Last year, when we asked him what he wished for, he said “to be in a cartoon”.

Apparently, he has matured quite a bit since then because his answer now is…

Happy Valentine’s Day!

2009-02-14T10:03:00.001-08:00

The other day, DJ and I were working on a Valentine’s surprise for family members.

We started by peeling of crayons…

Then we mixed colors into a foil-lined muffin pan. DJ did a great job mixing coordinating colors together.

These were then placed in the oven to melt.

In the meantime, DJ made funny faces to pass time…

This is how the melted crayons looked

After they hardened a little, we formed them into a heart shape.

The finished crayon heart looked like this

So they didn’t turn out as pretty as we thought (but DJ was proud of it and that’s all that counts) and we didn’t have enough melted crayons to make more hearts. :(

Only daddy ended up with a crayon heart pendant for Valentine’s Day. Sorry everyone else! :)

Here are the directions in case you want to try it with your little guys -http://wondertime.go.com/create-and-play/crafts/valentines-crayon-necklace.html.

Have a great Valentine’s Day!

Doyle, Michelle, DJ and Cody

Our Big Boy

2009-02-10T14:15:00.001-08:00

CAUGHT!

2009-02-10T13:51:00.001-08:00

The other day, I had caught someone in my household in the act of thievery! GASP!

Yesterday, I caught the thief in action again! This time I took pictures!

Like last week, I heard the pitter patter of feet running to the table, the chair get pulled out then the bump of a head hit the table before sitting up.

I walked into the kitchen and found this….

He was caught in the act of trying to eat his brother’s Valentine’s gift! Worst part is, he doesn’t even like chocolate!

The box was hidden on top of my craft table and set in the middle of the table to stay out of reach of this little culprit. He still managed to somehow reach it. I think it involved him standing on top of his ride-on car because it was left at the crime scene!

He doesn’t look remorseful, does he?

Poor Spongebob didn’t know what hit him!

My favorite part about the whole thing is that after he was done, he shoved all the candy back into the box

Then walked away…

100th Day of School Celebration

2009-02-06T11:08:00.000-08:00

Tuesday was DJ's 100th Day of School celebration!

When I picked him up from school, he was wearing this cool hat and had a huge $100 bill that he said I could have to buy a house. So thoughtful! =)

He said he had a fun day counting 100 pieces of popcorn (he also added that the popcorn was gone in no time!), writing to 100, and having a great 100th day of school day.

Best part is that he expected there to be a 101th day of school party the next day!

Uncle Jason

2009-02-02T14:04:00.000-08:00

Before Uncle Jason deployed, we were able to spend a few days with him. The boys LOVED it! They hadn't seen him since summer and were happy to have him all to themselves!

DJ loved it because he had a new videogame buddy. We loved it because it was nice to see him again (and because him playing games with DJ meant DJ would not ask us to play games with him! =0) DJ is a video game pusher!!!)

A few nights before leaving, we invited Jason and his team to spend dinner with us. DJ gained a couple more video game partners and we enjoyed dinner with a great group of people before they had to leave for a few months.

Another thing that the boys had in common with their Uncle Jason is that they love wrestling. Uncle Jason didn't mind getting down and "beat up" by the boys.

And my favorite picture from the wrestling match...

We will hopefuly see you in a few months, Uncle Jason! Take care of yourself and come back soon!

A Jelly Belly Christmas

2009-01-24T14:52:00.001-08:00

I am just a little behind on blogging so I am trying to catch up.

Right before Christmas, we took the boys to see Santa at the Jelly Belly Factory. They had not visited Santa yet so this was their one shot to give Santa their last minute Christmas list. (DJ did email him his list at school, but we wanted to make sure the big man heard it from him in person).

This beautiful archway greeted us into Santa's workshop.

Cody had no idea what was going on since he hadn't really been up close and personal with Santa yet, but DJ was VERY excited.

When we got to the front of the line, Cody ran up to the chair. I don't think he really realized anyone was sitting there. When he got on Santa's lap, though, he got a little nervous.

Okay, a LOT nervous. I love this picture!!! We never had the "get me away from this creepy, hairy guy in red" pictures with DJ so I'm glad we got it with Cody. =)

Santa is probably used to rejection, though, considering he continues to smile through the arms flailing, shin kicking and shrieks.

DJ got shy while sitting on Santa's lap so he never voiced his wish list. I guess he was happy with Santa learning about it through email.

I think I should be working at the mall taking Santa's pictures this year. Isn't this a good one? LOL

Jelly Belly was decorated inside and out with Christmas decorations. DJ loved looking at (and touching) everything.

These were some of the decorations outside.

Even the inflatable Santa was too much for Cody!

Sugar is Sweet

2009-01-05T16:56:00.000-08:00

Doesn't just looking at this Christmas "Tree" make your teeth hurt?

Kindergarten Holiday Christmas Program

2009-01-05T16:40:00.000-08:00

It was the show of the season and one we had been looking forward to!

We always enjoyed going to DJ's preschool seasonal programs and watching the kids sing their little hearts out. We kept hoping that he would have on this year as well and we weren't disappointed!

Right before their Holiday break, the kindergartner's had their Holiday Program. DJ practiced daily in preparation for the show. :)

Here is our little singer posing in front of the Christmas tree.

I'm not sure what he was doing, but it apparently was a pose (so he informed me).

This is my current favorite picture of him. That is probably why it is the one used for the header of their blog. :)

We had to get to school before the program so the kids could get their "costumes" for the show. Since they were going to sing Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer, they were all adorably dressed as female and male reindeers (I know there are proper terms for them, but they seem to escape me at the moment).

I thought DJ would get shy during the show and not sing, but here is proof that he did. He sang his little patooty off! Watch out American Idol!!!!