Connie and Bina

Happy Halloween

2009-10-31T21:06:00.000-07:00

Bina!

2009-10-19T10:51:00.001-07:00

Still needs naps.

Wants to go to school.

Is a hip chick.

Photos

2009-10-18T10:48:00.000-07:00

In the Garden

Resting after play time.

Dancing the night away.

RIGHT NOW!

2009-10-16T20:58:00.003-07:00

Has become the battle cry of my two angels, when thrown into a fit. They pull at my arms, push me with all their strength to get me to cooperate with their demands. Bina's main complaint; more food. Connie: "I can't, I need help."

They haven't used it on each other, yet. They save it just for me and only me. Grandpa, Grandma and even Uncle Robert arn't special enough to recieve a full blown tantrum.

I have two options; ignore it or put them in their room.

If I'm the only one around, ignoring it is best. If there are other people present they begin to share their complaints. So then I go to plan #B, time out in their room. On both occasions they continue to pull, the door or I, and scream. Being in their room calms them down quiker but having them fail to get my attention helps them understand and remember that next time they better talk nicely and be patient. Even if it only lasts for a couple days.

PARTY!!

2009-10-10T15:15:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday to Me!

My friends (right-left); Co, Jo, Ja, Jac, Ca with Bina in the back. (3 C's and 3 J's lol)

I wished for Miss Camille to keep being my teacher.

My presents; a mini etch-a-sketch, 2 monster trucks, 2 racing rigs, a crayola bank, foam football, bubbles, Woody and Buzz action figures and a transformer.

Things I did at my party.

I open my presents.
I blow my cake.
I made a ballon monster.
Play outside with my friends.
Play cars and trains with my friends.
Play with my ballon.
I ate cake.

How I play soccer.

2009-09-12T09:10:00.000-07:00

Soccer 2

2009-09-12T09:09:00.000-07:00

Soccer 3

2009-09-12T09:08:00.000-07:00

Soccer 4

2009-09-12T09:07:00.000-07:00

They came tumbling down

2009-09-07T22:40:00.003-07:00

Connie and Bina get into plenty of trouble on their own. Connie has become a pro at tattle-telling and Bina is queen at screaming her way out of time-out. They bug each other to no end and love each other fiercely. So it's no surprise that when together they can create bigger troubles.
Tonight it happened, something I suspected could happen at one time or another. I just never imagined they'd go through it together.

Their room is in the basement filled with all their toys. Like any child they don't like to stay in one place for long. Many excursions are made to the main floor with as many toys they can carry in hand, basket, suitcase or box. After many denials Bina, with the help of Connie, snuck up the stairs tugging along the dolly stroller. Almost to the top they began to notice the weight. Connie asked her if she was alright. They weren't. Down they fell backwards. Connie hit the floor first, followed by the stroller, then Bina. Both hit the floor on their heads and back. Thankfully the house is spread with thick old carpet. It could have been much worse. They didn't fall on top of each other and the stroller didn't hit either of them. The stairway is narrow which also helped in keeping from going out of control. Also as mentioned this wasn't the heaviest thing they've snuck upstairs. I'm hoping they'll remember what happened and not make any more attempts without help. Being 2 and 4 years old, that'll last 2 days.

Connie's First Soccer Game

2009-08-24T07:29:00.001-07:00

He did it. He played in his first soccer game last Saturday.

He and Bina got sick earlier this week and they've been home having pajama days and movie marathons.

At practices Conroy does alright. As the season goes on he'll be as fast and know as much as his teammates. For now he just likes being outside with friends and talking it up with his coaches. He runs as fast as he can until he realizes that he's not going to catch up to the ball. When he does get to the ball he stops and doesn't make contact because someone else wants to kick it. No one calls for the ball like they do in volleyball or baseball, he just stands aside and lets them have at it.

I packed sandwiches, carrots, watermelon and ice pops for dinner in a cooler and we walked to the park. We were one of the first families to arrive. From the moment he got onto the field I knew how his game would be played.

He ran with all his might to catch the ball.

Then he stopped trying once he saw that he wasn't fast enough to kick it.

He finished the game just walking around, following the ball but with less excitement then he had at the beginning.

He had fun over all and that's all that counts at this age. He's excited to go to practice and play another game. Once he gets over this cold we'll be out in the yard practicing.

Soccer

2009-08-11T18:49:00.004-07:00

Yesterday was Connie's first soccer practice, ever! Before he could go he needed the right equipment. So off we went with Grandma and Grandpa to Wal-Mart to get a soccer ball and a pair of shin guards, a must have, especially when just starting out. Remembering the games between my siblings when they were his age, it's a lot of kicking each others shins just for a chance at the ball that has since travelled to the other side of the field.

Bina not wanting to be left out, was given a smaller soccer ball. Of course she was still sorely disappointed that she would not be allowed to play with Connie. She let herself cry for all to hear in hopes for sympathy. She got none. It soon passed and she begun to let out her frustration on me. She's a strong little girl and find release in pushing others around. So she pushed me as far away from the field before cooling down and ready to play.

Meanwhile Connie is running around, kicking, dribbling, having a great time and ready to kick in a goal. There are about 2 or 3 boys faster then he is and until he catches up he'll just have to work at being fast enough to have his shot. Being 4 he cried out his disappointment at not having a turn at the goal. It passes and he's back to having fun.

It ends and not ready to go home they help pick up the cones and hand them to a coach. We walk home with their balls rolling ahead.

Summer in the sun with ice pops

2009-07-24T16:02:00.001-07:00

Playtime; The Good and The Tears

2009-07-23T15:26:00.005-07:00

For the last few weeks Connie and Bina have been playing really well together. Their imaginations are blossoming in their little minds. One day they travelled up and down a building through the elevator in their closet. They had lunch at The Restaurant and bought toys in the Toy Department. Earlier today they were super strong Super Heros. Lifting heavy things and cleaning their room. Now they're taking care of the baby dolls, Lola and Ana, taking them for rides in the stroller and 'feeding' them watermelon.

Now the whole day doesn't last in playful bliss. There are tantrums and hits thrown around. It's all about timing. If Bina is playing with her babies, Connie needs to stay away. Even if he asks in his sweetest voice the answer is no. However no matter what Connie says Bina takes any toy she pleases without bothering to ask. This makes Connie upset and put to tears. I remind him that if he isn't playing with something he needs to put it away. Bina is less likely to play with something if it's out of sight.

Besides the dispute over toys, timing is key. There are days when they want to play together, they just can't agree on when. Connie will want to play with her while she's perfectly content on her own. He'll complain and finally go off on his own. A few minutes pass and now Bina wants to play with him, while he wants nothing to do with her. Can you feel the love.

They really do love each other and have a great time together. Once they agree on how and when.

Photo's by Uncle Robert

2009-07-17T18:51:00.001-07:00

Not one to be left out, he took some of Connie as well. As you can tell he's an animated little boy. Who aims to please. He started out ready to have his picture taken with his finger up his nose but Uncle Robert, knowing that this would have less of an effect on a boy convienced him to make these faces, instead.

Photo's by Uncle Robert

2009-07-17T18:47:00.003-07:00

"Pick your nose Bina"

This daily action inspired Uncle Robert to take a picture. So that one day he can haunt his sweet niece with it. She obeyed his command the first time. Then Mommy jumped in to warn her. She hesitated but did it anyways. But the look in her eyes let you know, that she knew something was up. She couldn't decide whether to cry, play shy, innocent or embarrased.

"She's my niece, that's all I'm saying."

Fun in a Box

2009-07-13T20:13:00.003-07:00

Today, despite all the prep that went into starting A week, was a play day with few limits. Just before bed all toys were found on the floor, alond with blankets and pillows. The surprise of the day... it was spent without one minute of TV. They spent the entire day playing with their imaginations and eachother. Now the day is over and all that was on the floor can be found in the box.

All About A!

2009-07-13T01:23:00.000-07:00

Everyday we'll be learning about the letter A; from everyday words, to animals, colors and everything else that starts with Aa. We'll even learn some new words that begin with A to use; ache, acceptable, able, allow, aloud, agree and amuse are just few. There are a lot of Animals that start with A too. Aardvark, Aardwolf, Abalone, Addax, Adder, Agama, Akita, Albacore, Alligator, Alpaca, Amphiumas, Anaconda, Anchovy, Anemone and Angelfish are just the beginning!

We're going to have a lot of fun learning all about the letter A.

Kira

2009-06-06T23:32:00.000-07:00

Birthday Wishes

2009-06-04T02:15:00.002-07:00

It's safe to say that Connie's favorite thing about Birthdays is the cake. A couple weeks ago he would tell anyone who let him about his 3rd Birthday cake, made of cupcakes and crayon candles. Yesturday he was the first to wish me a Happy Birthday. He excitedly told me of the cake we should have. Then a frown replaced his smile as he exclaimed "I don't know how to make Birthday cake." Oh, my sweet boy. I hugged him tight and thanked him for being so thoughtful.

Later with the help of Uncle R, they made cake and enjoyed eating it after dinner and serving it all by themselves this morning.

Snakes and Ballons

2009-06-03T08:48:00.002-07:00

Anytime the kids spot a ballon, I know that they won't rest until they have one wrapped around their arm. Thanks to all who give them out at the various events who choose to use them for decorations. When they don't, the day is a disaster for the rest of the day.

Bina discovered that she is not a fan of snakes. Also at the fair they had a presentation on lizards and snakes. She was interested in the lizards and the giant tortise but as the snakes got bigger she refused to watch.

From Babe to Boy

2009-05-30T22:20:00.000-07:00

My baby boy is now a little boy. He has grown so much over the last 2 years. He is sweet and has wonderful people skills. He happily greets everyone he sees. He is eager to make friends and loves to play with his Bina. He still enjoys playing with his trains and cars. He is still the first to know when his Mommy needs a hug. Always ready to help and learn new things. He is very interested in playing sports. He can tell them all apart and is ready to play. He'd follow his Bapa around to play golf if we let him. He'll be playing soccer this fall and I know he'll be a great team player. He's a sensitive soul and ready to shed tears on the drop of a hat but learning that he has two choices to react, with words or actions. Every day he absorbing new information. Every day his dream to go inside the temple is stronger. Every day his heart grows full of love. Every day I thank God for this little boy.

More shopping

2008-09-29T01:23:00.001-07:00

One of many the many Asian food stores.

The Official apperal of Canadians and their Athletes.

The equivalent of Claire's.

Canadian Shopping

2008-09-29T01:13:00.001-07:00

Canadian Macy's. This is the Original Hudson Bay Company.

Childrens clothing

One of Canada's fine chocolate shops. The is also Barnard Calibou, which is the equivalent to Godiva's.

Banff National Park

2008-09-29T01:06:00.001-07:00

I spent the first 8 months of my marriage working in Banff. It was an amazing experience with fabulous people.

Calgary; in no particular order

2008-09-29T00:58:00.002-07:00

Calgary Botanical Garden

These cows illistrated by a variety of artists used to be plentiful along the streets of Calgary. Victoria, B.C has dolphins, scattered in it's city.

Play time in Lynden

2008-09-19T22:50:00.002-07:00

We went to a large, spacious park in Lynden, Washington to watch Grandpa play Softball. It was a great night.

Love that boy

2008-09-18T05:26:00.000-07:00

He's off to take pictures

Hm, what's this?

The back is gone!

No more pictures, please.

Pretty in Yellow

2008-09-17T08:24:00.000-07:00

Enjoying a prolonged Summer

2008-09-16T17:22:00.000-07:00

Bina the sneak theif

2008-09-15T18:29:00.000-07:00

While at the park Connie found a plastic baseball bat that had been broken in half. As he sat on the swing Bina noticed the bat unattended. She took her chance and snatched the bat. She almost made it unnoticed but was spotted by her brother whom she left screaming, "NO!"

Mommy calmed poor Connie down and was soon happy to be playing at the park. The bat is now fixed with duct tape and will be waiting for a whiffle ball to join him in the back yard.

Connies very first pictures

2008-08-20T15:13:00.000-07:00

I 'borrowed' the camera and took these shots all by myself. (unedited)

Smart kids

2008-08-19T05:35:00.001-07:00

Grandma taught Connie how to play Domino's and often plays by himself. Not because no one will play with him but he likes to be alone, sometimes. I caught him at the end of this game. He was so proud of himself.

Both of them love to look through books. Bina can often be found flipping through the pages of any book she can reach. She's learned a few new words with the books and always manages to spot out her favorites on the library shelf, once we've returned them.

Fun in a box.

2008-08-18T17:30:00.002-07:00

Dirty girls.

And their off!

RAWR!

In hiding

AHA! I see you!

Watch out Connie it's the Bina monster!

They spent the whole afternoon playing with this box in their favorite room in the house.

Itchy walnuts

2008-08-08T11:55:00.003-07:00

This morning Mommy made us a yummy batch of pancakes with walnuts. We ate them all up. Then I (Bina) got really itchy. My arms and eyes. I rubbed and scratched till they were red. It was awful. Mommy washed me up and put on some cream. It really helps. Now I'm all better.

No more walnuts for me.

Thank you Auntie Allie!

2008-08-07T08:11:00.001-07:00

Mommy's friend Allie along with her friend Jessica came to visit us last week. She is soo cool. Last time she came to see us we went on a Ferry to Victoria. She liked it so much that we had to show her friend Jessica. So off we went on the 'boa boat'. Auntie Allie bought us ice cream for lunch! We also ate alot of other snacks Mommy brought in her black bag of magic. I (Connie) hung out with Auntie Allie and Jessica as much as I could. We explored the boat and played in the play area. Bina was supposed to take a nap but was too excited. When we got off we had to wait for Auntie Allie's brother to come pick us up. We all squeezed into the car.

First stop was the Fisherman's Warf.

Then a stroll around town.

Oh! Wow! Cool!

Lola was with us the whole time.

Girly Bina

2008-08-06T19:43:00.002-07:00

Bina is a girl in every sense of the word. When given a choice of what to wear she will pick the dress. Lola (her doll) is always in tow and in good hands. She even makes sure to kiss Connie's boo boos and ask for ice to heal his bumps. She blows kisses at all she meets and loves to give hugs to every other child her height or smaller. She has begun to 'fix' her hair when passing the many mirrored closets in the house. The mommy and daughter girly moments are now beginning. This is the second time I have braided her hair. Last time I just did one. It looks like these two braids will last a little longer then the first. She sat very still and patient while watching Beauty and Beast.

Turn it up!

2008-07-22T18:09:00.001-07:00

Bina decided that the music (Mama's Pat Metheny) wasn't loud enough so would turn it up at various moments when it seemed like she just didn't want to hear the tapping of keyboard keys, jumble of toys or the humming of the sewing machine. She would also raise the volume when she felt like dancing.

The Green Monster

2008-07-16T19:01:00.002-07:00

While on our way to Aunt Ilsen and Uncle Scott's place Connie tells Mommy about the Green Monster.

Connie: Mommy, the Monster is going to get us!

Mommy: Oh no! What color is he?

Connie: Green

Mommy: Is he big like Grandpa or big like the trees?

Connie: Big like the trees.

Mommy: Does he have big eyes or little eyes?

Connie: BIG eyes.

Mommy: What color is he?

Connie: Green

Mommy: Does he have skin like a snake or fur like a bear?

Connie: Green fur like a bear! He's going to get us.

Mommy: Does he have feet like a duck, a person or a dog?

Connie: Like a person. He has really BIG feet. He's going to eat us!

Mommy: Does he like red cars or purple cars?

Connie: Purple cars.

Mommy: Oh, then we're safe Connie. Our car is red. The Green Monster is going to get the purple car in front of us.

Connie: Oh

On our way home.

Connie: The Green Monster is going to eat us!

Mommy: What color car does he like?

Connie: RED! He's going to eat Grandpas car.

Mommy: He only eats cars?

Connie: Yea, he's going to eat Grandpas red car.

Mommy: So he won't eat us? He'll take us out an then eat the car?

Connie: Yes, with his teeth.

Mommy: Does he have big sharp teeth? Because the car is strong and he'll need big teeth to eat it.

Connie: Yea

Mommy made the observation that the Green Monster only appears while we're driving on roads surrounded by trees.

The Bird Sanctuary with Ben

2008-07-14T16:27:00.003-07:00

A few Saturdays ago, Mommy and I joined my friend and his Mommy to visit the birds. It was cloudy out and decided to go out anyways, hoping it'd be just another cloudy day in the Lower Mainland. We did alot of walking around on the pathways in surrounded by trees and berry bushes and various bodies of water.

When I said birds I meant ducks. Lots and lots of ducks. At the entrance you can buy bags of bird seed and the ducks know this. They know that every visitor comes with FOOD!
Of course, this is one of the reasons we went, to feed the ducks. Because "they're so funny and so cool!" Right now there's teen ducks and adult ducks. The teens still have fluff with a few feathers around their necks and chest. "They're so cute!"

They follow you every where! And look! Geese! They make alot of noise, honking. They like to eat the seeds too. Sometimes the ducks get it all because the geese are too busy pushing each other out of the way. Silly geese. But it's not funny when they try to eat the seeds out of your hands. Luckly no one got bitten, just nipped.

The ducks love the food so much they'll eat it right out of the bag!

Look! Cranes! These we crossed on a narrow pathway with a deep ditch on one side and water on the other. They're known to be very territorial so our Mommies picked us up and we quietly and very slowly walked passed. With me in one hand and the camera in the other Mommy took this picture as we passed.

Ok, so there are other birds. Alot of little ones hidden in the trees, bird houses and feeders through out the Sanctuary.

On our way back we found a nest full of them under a gazebo.

That was our journey through the Sanctuary. It did drizzle on and off, very lightly. It was the perfect day to visit. Even though it was cloudy the day was warm. If it had been sunny and hot our visit would have been short, chaotic and full of complaints.

Next stop the Strawberry Field for some picking and eating. You can find UPick farms all around the area. They have corn, all types of berries, potatoes and plenty more!

With our energy winding down and making sure we boys didn't step on the plants and with no real desire to get our hands dirty, imagine that, the mommies picked the berries. We ate ice cream. And no pictures were taken except for this one of me on the stationary tractor.

Our outing ended just at the right time. We left the farm just as it was begining to rain. The day ended with a delicious bowl of Strawberries. They're smaller then the ones you find at the store but so "yummy!"

Puddle Jumper

2008-07-04T21:42:00.002-07:00

taken from Corp of Delta

It's the end of week one of Connie's swimming class. The first day he went I had put him in the wrong class. (Didn't realize it till I got home) But he had fun none the less. The second day he stayed home sick; mopeing, tummy sick. The third day he got placed in the right class. There are only two boys in the class. Well actually on Tuesdays and Thursdays he shares the class with another lil boy, but on Weds and Fridays he's got one on one time with his teacher. So today was one on one time. He's still shy about getting into the water aswell with the teacher. But once he's in he's really good. His class is to introduce him to water, water safty and how to play in the water. I know saying 'water', sounds funny. Who needs a formal introduction to water? Well as in many other things in life we sometimes get too comfortable or cockey and think we're strong enough or wise enough to handle something. Then in an instant find out we were wrong. And half the time we end up broken, bruised or humiliated. SO introducing Connie to water should be a starting point in teaching him his limits and abilities in the water. Alright back to the fun stuff.

So he seems to have a good time. His teacher says that he is doing well and learning at a good pace. Bina and Mommy have taken this time to explore the water as well. Bina loves playing in the pool. She can't wait to get in and go. She one day will also be introduced to water and learn the rules and her limits.

Bring on the second round!

Connie's First Swimming Lesson

2008-07-01T13:57:00.003-07:00

YAY! He liked it! He normally doesn't like to get wet and it did take him a while before he allowed the instructor to get him in the water. Once he was in all was well. Tomorrow Bina will be joining us and she'll be swimming with Mommy while Connie takes his second class.

2008-06-22T19:26:00.003-07:00

Yesturday was a busy fun filled day. We went to the Rec center to play with Mommy's friend. We took the bus early and had time to sit and have breakfast on the grass and play with pine cones. At the Rec center they had cars to ride in, a slide, an obstacle course and large bowling pins. We had a lot of fun. When play time was over we found a nice place to sit and have our picnic.

Since we were out and in the area, we went to the Thrift Shop. There Mommy and I got two books each while Bina slept. While waiting for the bus we ate our grapes and made plans to watch a movie once we got home. I was really tired and fell asleep on the bus and got to ride in the stroller while Bina walked with Mommy.

We watched Bambi and soon we were off again to a BBQ. Alot of our friends were there, with good food and toys. It was alot of fun. We didn't want to go. Bina even cried when Mommy's friend dropped us off at home. She didn't want to say goodbye. She went right to sleep when we got inside. I got to stay up and wait for Grandma to come home. She read me my new book.

What a great day!

Mommy's Angels

2008-06-18T16:56:00.002-07:00

May Days

2008-06-18T16:33:00.002-07:00

Every year they have a May Celebration here in the lower mainland. This is our second one. We went early before the crowds. There were nothing but mommies and strollers. First thing we did was get ballons. The police station was handing them out and a magician made Connie a hat. Out of the 4 ballons we got from the Police men 3 flew away. Mommy didn't make very strong knots. Then we got in line for the first ride that opened.

Connie rode with his friend Ben while Mommy and Bina watched. Sadly it was the only ride. If we're still here next year all three of us will get to ride, if Bina is tall enough. We walked around to see the sites, shared a burger, played a couple games of skiball, then off to the Petting Zoo. They had ponies, goats, pigs, rabbits, chickens, sheep, a calf and believe it or not a horny toad. Bina was a little hesitant to pet the animals but with Connie there she got a little braver.

The next stop was to the ActNow BC Campaign tent. There they had different activities to show the various ways to get more active and healthier in life. They had a section blocked off for mini soccer and basketball, tredmils, a jump rope machine, a floor piano, wall buzzer, punching bag, Dance Dance Revolution, Recipe print outs, excersize bikes, hand eye and hearing coordination game, coloring pages and large foam blocks to learn to lift and carry properly. It was a lot of fun.

To cool off Connie went on a paddle boat.

To end the day, while Bina dozed off, Connie went and bounced on the Gym mats.

Fun was had by all.

Aunt Ilsen & Uncle Scott

2008-06-17T23:26:00.003-07:00

They come to visit us almost every week. We are always excited to see them. Before dinner spend all their time with us. We play, read books (always the ones from the library) and monkey around. We also like to visit them at their home. They have a playground right next to it and a great view of the city train. We love them lots.

The Bank

2008-06-17T22:56:00.005-07:00

About once a month Bapa, after coming home from his shopping trip with Mama, and brings us dollar coins to put into our Piggy banks.

Uncle Robert has also started giving us his pocket change from time to time.

Mommy puts her pocket change in our banks so when we go on outings we have money for lunch or treats.

We have alot of fun putting money into our Piggy banks.

Things we do while Mommy's on the Computer

2008-06-04T20:55:00.006-07:00

Originally uploaded by mychaos_peace

We play,

we clean up,

2008-06-04T20:55:00.001-07:00

Originally uploaded by mychaos_peace

and we wait

2008-06-04T20:54:00.001-07:00

Originally uploaded by mychaos_peace

I'm sick, mommy?

2008-06-01T16:52:00.001-07:00

Originally uploaded by mychaos_peace

Connie out of the both of them needs a little more quiet time when sick. He likes being mothered.

I'm not sick.

2008-06-01T16:50:00.001-07:00

Originally uploaded by mychaos_peace

Taking this picture at the right moment shows how sick Bina is. Otherwise all you see is smiles and mischief.

Despite the fact...

2008-06-01T16:49:00.001-07:00

Originally uploaded by mychaos_peace

that they're sick, they've still got their appetite.

Just like mommy.

2008-06-01T16:47:00.001-07:00

Originally uploaded by mychaos_peace

When holding up cups our pinkies go up.

Sick

2008-05-31T20:14:00.003-07:00

The last two days the weather was cooler then what we've had in the last 2 weeks. So of course the kids got sick. Since birth both Connie and Bina catch colds quicker then anyone I've known. I'm blaming it on the C-sections.

The consolation prize; they're over all mood and energy level doesn't change. You wouldn't know they were sick except for the runny noses and sneezing. Bina does tend to get crankier towards nap and bed time but she gets cranky any other day around those times. Even so I tend to keep the kids in the house. We don't go to church, the park or have friends over to play. Spreading germs isn't very nice and that's what'll happen no matter what their mood is. I'm hoping this won't last as long as usual. Their colds can lost 2-3 weeks. That's alot of snot and medicine. And medicine, the only thing I can give them now is Tylonal. All cold meds were taken off the shelves. Oh well. Like I said they do alright and the Tylonal does help them sleep easier.

Good night my sweet sick darlings.

Eagle at the park

2008-05-30T21:46:00.002-07:00

Yesturday while Connie and Bina were at the park 4 Bald Eagles with two babies flew over. In their midst was a seagull. It looked as if it was being chased by two of the eagles. Bina watched them in awe while Connie layed his belly over the swing. The chase, if it was one came to an end and the eagles circled over head a few more times before heading east.

Today, walking home from the park with Bina she spotted another eagle.

Both times I wish I had thought to take the camera.

Dinner time

2008-05-29T22:05:00.003-07:00

Connie's least favorite part of the day. Food just isn't a neccesity to him. I'm surprised his not thinner than he is. Getting him to eat anything at dinner is difficult. He chooses, because I ask him, to go to bed without eating. I don't give or make anything special for him. He eats what everyone else is eating except for green beans and a couple other green vegatables. Tonight was the first night I offered to make him something different, IF he ate one spoonful of the soup first. He refused so like every other night that he chooses to fast he sits at the table until he finishes his dinner or until bed time. Which is usually an hour or so later.

Ugh. I know this is probably just a phase, I just can't forsee the future and it frustrates me.

Off Day

2008-05-23T19:19:00.003-07:00

Mommy is not a morning person. Only while attending Seminary did Mommy do a good job at being a happy morning person. So Connie and Bina sit and watch cartoons and eat breakfast while Mommy gets her barrings and prepares for the day. They're really good at doing this and almost always patient with Mommy. Today however was a different story....

It doesn't really have much to do with Mommy being a morning person but what an early morning does to Connie and Bina. It makes them impatient, bored and restless. It's 7:30 and they're out for the night. Bina could've taken a nap at 10am except she wanted milk instead of water in her sippy cup. They woke up this morning around 6:30am an hour (2 hrs, depending on the day) early. It also took away their appetite. They ate breakfast of course. It's thier favorite meal. The rest of the day after cartoons was an uproar with a few mild moments. Which on a regular day is the opposite way around.

I'm hoping this won't happen very often during the summer months, with more hours of sunshine. Not at all would be great.

Because really Mommy's not a morning person.

Connie's Words

2008-05-02T22:46:00.007-07:00

"I 3, Bina is 1"

"How is Mommy?"

"Mommy is 2."

"How old is Mama."

"Mama 2"

"How old is Bapa?"

"He he he 5."

When asked to tell someones age Connie's answer is always 2 unless he knows how old they are. Bapa is the only person who is 5.

Peek-a-boo in the trees

2008-05-02T21:53:00.002-07:00

Although it was cloudy we ventured out to visit with a friend at the library. Bina sat in the stroller and Connie sat over the handle while we walked to get lunch before meeting my friend. We arrived early and waited at the benches in the park. The grass hadn't been cut and covered Bina's ankles. They ran in opposite directions happy to be free. Connie was very good at coming when I called. He's good that way when we're out. At home it's a different story. Probably because when were out he has to trusts me more and is just happy to be out, when at home he hears the same things everyday. To get Bina to stay in the area I had her find Connie and so began the game of peek-a-boo. One would hide behind a tree while the other ran up and yelled boo. I of course got into the game and chased them with tickes. They settled down to have their snack while Deb and I talked. With clean hands we went into the library where Connie sat himself infront of the childsize computer and listened to his favorite story (on the comp) in Spanish. "Grandma and Me at the Beach" by Mercer Myers. Bina has still alot to learn about being out in public places. She's quiet for the most part but because she's still not talking she squeels or gives a little scream when not pleased. For the most part she's good, I just doubt people enjoy hearing her little scream, especially at the library. Also for not having had her nap at the usual time she was great. We checked out a total of 9 books, 4 movies and 1 CD. Every book is for them. They love to be read to and look through the pictures. Bina found a book we had just returned earlier this week on display and grunted to have it. So it's once again here to be read. Some books they just love and can't have them read enough. Others they just enjoy looking at the pictures and others are great for bed time, long enough to get them sleepy.

On the bus home Connie played Peek-a-boo with a friend while Bina slept. She's much bigger now and talking.

Grandma and Grandpa beat us home from their shopping trip. 'Bapa' bought Twinkies and Connie ate one before nap. It was late for a nap but with Bina sleeping and all the fun had outside he was tired.

Awake and hungry they gobbled their dinner. We had Cod and they loved every bite of it. They each had 3rd servings. For dessert, strawberries and Kix.

They're now sleeping and it's the end of another fabulous day.

2008-04-23T23:09:00.002-07:00

They like cats. Books with cats, about cats and Uncle Scott's cat.

2008-04-07T23:48:00.001-07:00

After the Ceremony with Uncle Danny and Uncle Robert.

Flower Girl and Ring Bearer

2008-04-07T23:32:00.003-07:00

The color scheme for the wedding came from Bina's dress so of course she became the flower girl and Connie, not to be left out the ring bearer.

On the day of the wedding things of course were scrambled. Bina began to get fussy and Connie wasn't co-operating. I did make an attempt to lay Bina down for a nap but with all the hustle and bustle it didn't happen. So then I planned on leaving Connie with the Bride and Grandpa and take Bina out to sit. Well you can only open the 'bridal suite' door so many times and the bride not walk out, so I was stuck. With Bina in one arm and Connie in front we exited the room and begun the ceremony. Connie did a terrific job of holding the pillow steady. Bina dropped a few petals and was done for the day. Once we sat down the jitter bugs entered their systems. They couldn't sit still or quiet. I finally took them out and listened with my ear pressed against the door as I kept them from making any sound.

His family

2008-03-28T15:30:00.001-07:00

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Originally uploaded by mychaos_peace

A conversation between him, Grandma & Grandpa that went like this;

Looking at Grandpa, "You my daddy?"
"No, I'm your Grandpa."
"I talk to my daddy on the phone. I talk to my daddy on the puter."
"Yes, sweet heart." said Grandma

Having left his daddy in Calgary the summer of 06 he only talks to him over the phone or computer. Even though Daddy isn't present his family grew to add Grandpa, Grandma, Uncle Robert, Aunt Ilsen and Sabrina (and Uncle Danny when he comes to visit). He is surrounded more then ever by people who love him lots.
My moment of peace yesturday came when he understood that he does have a Daddy just not with him. And more importantly that he has 'Mama', Bapa Aunt and Uncles and a lil sister who adore him just as much as his Mommy.

The Afternoon with Mommy

2008-03-21T18:56:00.004-07:00

The last two things on our To-do list was make returns of items we bought to many of. And then of course we treated our selves to a Vanilla Cream from Starbucks. We rode the bus home and Connie told Grandma everything we did. This is my favorite part,

" I eat no Sushi. I eat no hamburger. I eat no cheeseburger."
Grandma then asked "Did you drink something?"
"I drink juice." was his reply with a big smile

When we go out we usually grab lunch and he knows exactly where we go. So whenever we pass the places we've eaten he asks "We go eat....(whatever it is we have there)"?

It was a Good day to be out.

2008-03-21T18:55:00.005-07:00

We pass the ducks every time we go to the library. But not today! We had bread. He was soon surrounded. Connie had a blast feeding the ducks. He shrilled with laughter the second the bread left his hand. Where ever the bread landed 5-6 ducks huddled together to grab it.

2008-03-21T18:55:00.004-07:00

We didn't spend a long time at the park, a good thing to. Connie had to visit another potty. Our first stop was locked to the general public so we ran to the next closest restaurant. From there we went to the Bank to find that it too was closed for the day. Oh well. On to see the ducks.

Originally uploaded by mychaos_peace

2008-03-21T18:54:00.004-07:00

With Grandpa working over time we went out to run errands. Not worried about time we walked. Our first stop was McDonalds for our first Potty break. From there we walked down to one of the bus stop along the way to catch a bus. Connie loves to sit in the back. We took it to the library and found it to be closed, it being Good Friday. So he put the books inside their drop box. We then went to the park to play.

Fighting off sleep

2008-03-21T18:54:00.001-07:00

Originally uploaded by mychaos_peace

A perfect shot after bath time.

Rude awakening

2008-03-11T19:44:00.001-07:00

Originally uploaded by mychaos_peace

Having spent the night in Mommy's small bed we awoke angry, tired and mean. Bina screamed, twisted and cried while Connie kicked pushed and yelled at Mommy to go away. This went on for an hour. Once settled everyone was placed in their own beds and went back to sleep till noon. Being sick isn't very fun.

Here they are pictured in a much happier mood.

HE DID IT!

2008-03-10T13:19:00.005-07:00

Now the new goal is to stay dry for a month and he gets the James Train of the Thomas Collection.

With Bina we're still working on getting her to stay asleep all night. It's mommys fault, she lets her cuddle and sleep the rest of the night with her.

Clean sheets

2008-03-07T21:43:00.002-08:00

If Connie keeps his bed dry he'll get a Thomas the Tank Engine movie tomorrow! It'll be one week of clean sheets. Twice now he's wet the bed the last night. So I'm keeping my fingers crossed.

Fun

2008-03-04T14:26:00.001-08:00

Originally uploaded by mychaos_peace

She's having fun playing with the door and I'm having fun with my camera.

Library Day!

2008-03-04T12:13:00.003-08:00

Bus rides have to be Connie's favorite part of our outings. We made it to the stop just in time. Now normally when going to the library leave early enough to visit the ducks along the way and play on the computer at the library while Mommy looks for books. Today the bus driver passed our stop and the 2 next stops because he hadn't heard the 'bell' over his loud radio.

Walks are good but not when you've got some where to be. We got to StoryTime just as he was about to begin. After we quickly grabbed 3 books, scanned them (Connie's fave part) and arrived at the bus stop in time to catch our ride home.

Next week should be back to normal and if we've got to a loud radio player again, we'll just have to yell "NEXT STOP, please!"

Bina's Fave Youtube Video Series

2008-03-04T08:55:00.004-08:00

Mookie and Sam

Faces

2008-03-02T12:16:00.003-08:00

Conroy drew this on Feb 23. It's his first picture of faces. Notice there is no nose instead he drew on eyebrows.

Book Review

2008-03-01T23:59:00.002-08:00

Connie and Mommy have been going to the library every week for Story time. We've been checking out a lot of books and read them before lunch and at Bedtime. On the side you'll find a review of some of the many books we've read. 5 stickers-loved everything about it. 3-it was good. 1-pretty pictures but not interested.

Tiny little man's adventure

2008-03-01T23:49:00.002-08:00

Yesturday before Bina got sick, Connie sent his little pilot toy on an adventure down the toilet.
Some of his words arn't very clear so it took me a while to figure out what he did. He told the Grandma today what he had done. She couldn't understand him so was franticaly trying to figure out what went down the toilet. She was about to fish out whatever might be down there when Connie repeated 'tiny little man'.
I later cleared up what he had been saying and so far so good, the toilet still works.

Croup

2008-03-01T11:18:00.002-08:00

Croup is a group of respiratory diseases that often affects infants and children under age 6. It is characterized by a barking cough; a whistling, obstructive sound (stridor) as the child breathes in; and hoarseness due to obstruction in the region of the larynx. It may be mild, moderate or severe, and severe cases, with breathing difficulty, can be fatal if not treated in a hospital.[1]
Croup affects 5% of children in the second year of life; the peak incidence is between 7 and 36 months.

Croup is characterized by a harsh "barking" cough and sneeze, inspiratory stridor (a high-pitched sound heard on inhalation), nausea/vomiting, and fever. Hoarseness is usually present. More severe cases will have respiratory distress.
The "barking" cough (often described as a "seal like bark")[9] of croup is diagnostic. Stridor will be provoked or worsened by agitation or crying.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Croup

This is what had Bina and Mommy at the hospital for 9 hrs. Bina had a mild cough during the day and had no problems when taking her nap. She was put in bed as normal at bedtime but then woke up gasping for air and started "barking" and weezing. She was very tired so fell back to sleep off and on while sitting up in Grandma's arms. Then the "barking" got worse so off to the hospital.
Once there the Dr. place a mask over her nose and mouth with a tube blowing out steam & oxygen. Mommy sat with her and held the mask in place. The nurse brought Bina juice, a cookie and a little teddy bear. Bina, smiled at the bear. She was feeling much better. When they took off the mask they gave her steroids to loosen the flem and muscles.
After that she was wide awake, she didn't fall asleep until 3am. At 5am the Dr. said she could go home but then noticed that Bina was still making noises when she breathed. So they stayed for 3 more hours to wait for an X-ray.
To get the X-ray she had to sit in a special high chair with her arms straight above her head and secured around with thick plastic. She wasn't very happy. But crying made the picture of her lungs alot clearer. It was hard not to smile and tell her how cute she is.
Bina came home very hungry and tired. She's still sleeping.
Here's hoping all will be alright.

Hands, hands, hands.

2008-02-29T16:45:00.003-08:00

It started like any other day. Except today was all about hands. Mommy sang songs using hand puppets. We ate breakfast and lunch with our hands. We do alot of things with our hands. Today they were especially interesting. We couldn't stop using them, especially to pull hair, push, hit and nibble on. Yay, hands!

The Park

2008-02-29T01:39:00.003-08:00

A bright, beautiful, sunny, warm day. What better way to spend it then at the park? So off we went. We walked the 2 blocks hand in hand. It felt so good to be out. Connie walked up the mini hill while Bina looked around. This being her first time at the park with the ability to walk. She pointed out each kid she saw with excitment. They took turns on the swing. Laughing and urging to be pushed faster. They went down the slide. Bina sliding on her tummy, the same way she scoots down the stairs. She then began to climb up the slide with great ease and strength. Before going home we ran across the soccer field, chasing each other.

Once at home they drank plenty of water and gobbled up their ham and cheese with mustard sandwiches. Then crashed in their beds for nap.

This year is going to be an amazing adventure.

10 1/2 months

2005-08-22T13:52:00.001-07:00

He continues to grow and learn.

He now says DAD and every now and then he'll say Mom while crying. He walks along the furniture and can crawl pretty quikly. He enjoys playing tag and hide-n-seek. So far he'll eat whatever we put infront of him. He really likes goldfish and anything that has tomato sause.

Last night was pretty rough. I'm not sure if he had a stomach ache or if it was because it was really warm in his room. We had salmon for dinner and he ate a few pieces. It was the first time he had fish. I won't be giving him any for awhile.