Little Beans' Adventures

Proud Dad

2012-02-09T10:25:00.000-08:00

This might be one of JJ's proudest moments yet, Daniel teaching Chase how to play Nintendo DS.

Mild Winter

2012-02-01T15:18:00.000-08:00

The boys enjoyed some play time in the backyard yesterday.

Daniel's Oatmeal Recipe

2012-01-31T08:21:00.000-08:00

Most mornings Daniel wants to have oatmeal for breakfast. Here is his oatmeal recipe for anyone who wants to follow at home:

1. Grab one packet of maple syrup oatmeal and a bucket of quick oatmeal

2. Heat a little bit of water in the microwave for 15 seconds. While it is cooking say "Oh no, I pushed the popcorn button. It will be too hot."

3. Put the oatmeal packet in the water and just barely stir it so most of the oats are still dry

4. Open bucket of oats and put in two handfuls, spilling a decent portion on the counter

5. Stir just a little bit again, continuing to leave some oats dry

6. Taste a small spooful of partially wet and partially dry oatmeal. Pause for effect and say "Hmm. Not good. I forgot to push the 'yummy' button"

7. Put the oatmeal back in the microwave for about 5 seconds

8. Take it out and really stir it so all oats get wet

9. Taste again and say "MMmmmm. Really good."

10. Eat all the oatmeal

Two Sick Chickens

2012-01-20T18:27:00.000-08:00

It's 7:30pm and the boys are all in bed. All of them, JJ included. No one put up a fight. Everyone's bodies are exhausted from fighting off the viral infection that has been attacking their upper airways and beyond for the last five days.

CROUP. The boys have the terrible condition that makes them cough their lungs out, lose their appetites, spike fevers and sleep very little through the night-time hours. It's only a matter of time before the chorus of coughs and cries will begin again here. But for this short moment there is silence. Silence enough to think my own thoughts, to type them into this Blog.

What bothers me more than the lack of sleep I am getting and the drain two sick children are on a person, is how sad and scared I get in the middle of the night when Daniel can't catch his breath; when he coughs so hard he throws up the only small bits of nourishment he has received all day; that the doctor says, that's how it goes and to wait it out.

My poor little chickens.

Daniel passes out on the floor this afternoon mid-popsicle, exhausted from much-broken sleep the night before.

Chase' Favorite Things: 5 Months

2012-01-11T11:42:00.000-08:00

What big changes we have seen in you this last month, Chase. You are sleeping for 6-8 hours at a time during the night - halleluiah! You have started eating baby food - not a fan of any foods that are yellow or orange yet. You are sitting up by yourself, and entertained for long periods of time playing with Daniel and/or your toys.

Your favorite things include:
1. Sitting up and playing with toys.
2. Playing in your "exer-saucer."
3. Being greeted each morning by mom or dad, and even Daniel.
4. Watching your brother do anything and everything.
5. Eating pretzel rods.

Happy Five Months, kiddo!
Love,
Mom

Sweet Potato

2012-01-08T14:59:00.000-08:00

"Mmmm. This stuff us good!"

"Mom! Don't take my picture! My future wife might see this one day."

"Oh, Daniel! There you are, bro! Isn't this food stuff awesome?"

Happy New Year!

2012-01-07T14:33:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year from this clan to yours!

Angie, Chase, Auntie Megs, Uncle Travi, Marmee, Daniel, JJ and Auntie G

The Christmas Season in Photos

2011-12-26T07:39:00.001-08:00

Our Christmas season kicked off with the JJGames Christmas party!

The company has grown so much these last few years that it was employees and significant others only (and Gianna and Mike).

Next, we had a Christmas dinner with the Delagado Family that was all kinds of fun, including some Just Dance 3 on the Wii. Everyone got in the action.

We also took part in the ROP Christmas party. Angie baked 8 dozen pizelles that day.

We celebrated Jesus Birthday at Marmee's house with Christmas gifts, snacks, stories and an ice cream cake.

On Christmas Eve Daniel chose to open the largest present under the tree.

Good thing all the aunts and uncles were over to help us set up Daniel's new marble shoot.

Daniel and JJ tried out our new griddle Christmas morning. Although Chase couldn't enjoy the feast of french toast, eggs and bacon, he was all smiles.

A real tree this year!

Grandpa Tiger had just the right size batteries to get Daniel's PlayDoh assembly line in operation.

A Christmas walk. Dozens of dear were spotted on this beautiful Christmas afternoon.

Heidi outdid herself again with an amazing feast for her army.

Sunset at Grandpa Tiger's House.

Time for presents. Daniel was super excited to get a set of Tomika cars and trains that "go by themselves."

A little dessert to end the wonderful day.

Merry Christmas!

Play Doh "Mega Fun"

2011-12-25T09:51:00.000-08:00

Thanks, Nanny!

Spiders for Christmas?

2011-12-25T09:37:00.000-08:00

Daniel got just what he asked for this Christmas. A remote control tarantula ... really?

Daniel enjoys playing with his fuzzy, little friend, but every once in a while it gives him the creeps like it does his mommy.

The Big One

2011-12-25T07:05:00.000-08:00

Daniel got to open one present Christmas Eve. Of course he chose the biggest one under the tree. He wasn't disappointed. Thanks, Pop Pop!

Look Alike. Laugh Alike.

2011-12-06T18:00:00.000-08:00

A recent experiment with Chase reveals that both of our boys have/had the same laugh at age four months.

Check out Chase' video here:

And Daniel's here:

http://littlebeansadventures.blogspot.com/2009/08/daniel-loves-punching-daddy.html

Snow Day Dec. 3, 2011

2011-12-05T20:54:00.000-08:00

Some unexpected snow made for some unexpected fun on Daniel's sled. We were walking/sledding the neighborhood until our noses were pink. Check it out.

Second Day of School: There's Hope in New Beginnings

2011-12-05T15:59:00.000-08:00

Today was Daniel's second day of preschool. The verdict? He had a very good time.

When I picked Daniel up I braced for more tears and stories about my son wetting his pants and not participating with the rest of the class. Instead, my heart was filled with joy as I walked in to find Daniel cleaning up toys with his teacher, a smile on his face. When I peeked into the classroom he ran to me with big eyes and lots of stories about his morning. Good stories.

Praise be to God! My son is going to make it through school after all.

First Day of School: No Paints for this Preschooler

2011-12-02T13:05:00.000-08:00

Unfortunately, Daniel's first day of school wasn't the shining moment of self-expression and play I had so hoped for him.

Quite the opposite, I picked up my little munchkin practically in tears because he wet his pants for the second time and he wanted his mommy. (Until today, poor Daniel has only had two accidents since being potty trained.) I was crushed to find out that Daniel had not jumped right in with the other boys and girls in his class, did not participate in painting time, and didn't even eat his snack. No fruit loops? Really? Where did my son go?

We will try again on Monday. I'm hoping once Daniel gets to know his teachers and classmates better, and he gets accustom to the new routine, my precious boy will come to life and share all his love, his joy and his friendship with the rest of his class. And who knows? Maybe he will even pick up a paint brush.

Daniel before his first day of school. Despite the fact that he had no problem saying goodbye to mommy while at the Sand Table this morning, Daniel was more than ready to come home when mommy picked him up 3 hours later.

Chase' Favorite Things: 4 Months

2011-11-30T10:00:00.000-08:00

1. His Big Brother, Daniel.
2. Food! Glorious, food! (He isn't 90th percentile for nothing.)
3. Gumming on Daddy's knuckle.
4. Chewing on his own hand.
5. Being rocked to sleep in his car seat.
6. His pacifier. Yup! It's back.
7. Laughter. Chase loves hearing others giggle. You'll almost always get a laugh right back.

East Coast Visit 2.0

2011-11-29T17:03:00.000-08:00

Oh, the adventures we had on Chase' first trip East ...

First Day: Ice cream for lunch at The Ice Cream Man. Good idea, Carl!

Next on the agenda: Throwing rocks into Saratoga Lake.

No visit is complete without making cupcakes with Auntie Jenny.

Games Played: Card Games, trains and rides on Nanny's walker!

Look What Daniel Found. He played by his own rules.

New hats for a new head. Thanks Nana's secretary.

"This coffee maker is a cinch! Who wants a cup?"

I don't know who was more excited to look for frogs and splash in the pond, Pop-Pop or Daniel.

Beep! Beep! Here we come!

Just getting a few chores done on Pop-Pop and Christin's farm.

I Get This, Too

2011-11-01T14:54:00.000-07:00

It took this coffee lover until I was the mom of two to realize the true necessity of the drive thru coffee shop. I get it. Trust me. I get it.

I Get It

2011-10-28T15:30:00.000-07:00

When I got married and was looking for photos of my childhood for a slide show I was appalled that I could find so few without my older sister Jen in them. Where were all the cute photos of me? Just me. Truth be told, there weren't many. End of story.

Chase, honey. When I was pregnant with you I vowed to take countless photos of you ALONE. I didn't want your fate to be the same as mine, where I was stuck with the photos I had, cute or not - Okay. It wasn't really a big deal. But I vowed nonetheless.

Sorry. As my parents could have guessed - as could all you other parents of two or more kids - my commitment to your photo album is falling behind in the list of all things important, like keeping you and your brother alive!

So here are some precious pictures of my TWO boys!

In Chase' crib.

Smooch'n on the couch.

All three boys.

Happy Halloween

2011-10-25T20:30:00.000-07:00

Guess what I am for Halloween?

That's right! I'm a train conductor!

And Chase?

He's Superman!

No More Binky ... Seriously?

2011-10-25T14:27:00.000-07:00

Well, it was only a matter of time before our second born, like his older brother, decided the binky wasn't for him. However, JJ and I were hopeful that the soft plastic vice would sooth Chase for a while longer than two months. (Not sure why we thought this since Daniel stopped taking one after two weeks.) Heck! I would go as far to say that we were of the mindset that a tearful goodbye to the pacifier at a late age would be a worthwhile trade off for the contentment that it brought today. But we won't have to worry about all those tears after all. Chase does not like the binky any longer. Sad.

Chase still loves to be swaddled at bed time. We will see how long that lasts!

Chase at Two Months

2011-10-10T19:41:00.000-07:00

Well Chase, you have got your brother beat as far as your Well Child Exam numbers go at two months. And despite the red-eye that this photo displays, you have beautiful blue eyes, perhaps passed down to you by your Pop Pop.

Weight: 13lb 5oz

Height: 24 inches

Head: 16 1/2 inches

Manner: Smiley, loves peek-a-boo, very chill

Another Ball Game

2011-09-27T14:00:00.000-07:00

Our tradition of introducing our children to the Colorado Rockie's for the first time with Grandpa Tiger continues. Chase was five weeks old (Daniel was three weeks at his first game) as we watched the Rockies crush Cincinnati a few weeks ago. Chase caught about as much of the game as Daniel did his first time.

What's a little kiss?

2011-09-25T18:59:00.000-07:00

Daniel has been sick these last few days. A cough, sniffles, nothing major for a two-and-a-half-year-old. But, JJ and I realize that for Chase, not yet two months old, the same symptoms could turn into another story. So, JJ and I have reminded Daniel repeatedly not to touch his brother, sneeze on him, or give him the kisses he regularly dishes out to Chase each day - it was worth a shot, right?

But as you can see below, despite all the reminders Daniel can't resist loving on his little bro. And yes. I caught it on camera instead of pulling Daniel's lips apart from Chase's cheek. Here's to Chase' first cold.

Brothers

2011-09-18T11:40:00.000-07:00

Daniel Sings to Mom and Chase

2011-09-10T15:42:00.000-07:00

Daniel sings songs all the time now. He sings in the car to his Music Machine CD. Sings while watching TV. Sings while playing. And even sings to Chase and Angie.

Daniel singing the "ABC's"

Daniel singing "I Love You" from Barney

Daniel and Jenny Make Cupcakes.....Mmmm

2011-09-09T15:41:00.001-07:00

Daniel helped Aunt Jenny make some chocolate cupcakes. My favorite part is when Daniel taste tests the M&M's.

A Tale of Two Cupcakes

2011-09-06T18:13:00.000-07:00

Okay. More than two cupcakes may have been eaten in these scenarios.

Jen's most recent visit wasn't complete without baking cupcakes.

Daniel's first cupcake lesson with Auntie Jenny in Rochester NY in March.
A tradition was born.

Auntie Jenny Takes on Two

2011-09-04T07:30:00.000-07:00

Auntie Jenny came to visit this week to play with the boys and help out our family as we hit the one-month mark of being a family of four - needless to say, we sent her home exhausted.

Some of the many adventures Auntie Jenny enjoyed included a trip to "Monkey Business," an indoor play gym, a day at the zoo, dinner at Daniel's favorite pizza parlor, a late-night excursion to Chuck E Cheese, jumping on a trampoline, playing "mailman," "grocery store" and "choo-choo train."

Daniel showed off his climbing skills at Monkey Business ... for three hours!

Daniel used dozens of tokens in record time. Dad and Auntie Jenny helped!

Jenny and Daniel feed the birds nectar during a trip to the Denver Zoo.

Chase would be happy to live in Jen's arms or on her lap.

And of course, there were lots of "special treats" this week!
(see next post for chocolaty tales)

Shared Offices

2011-08-14T07:00:00.000-07:00

As her mom's visit grows to a close, Angie is wondering what exactly being home with her two little munchkins by herself will look like. How many days out of the week will she have the strength for play dates, chores around the house AND some time for her family, friends and neighbors? How many days will she be pulling her hair out by the time daddy's work day ends?

One thing that might help share the load of her two-year-old's need for almost-constant stimulation and play is the fact that Daniel now has his very own desk in daddy and mommy's office. Oh, the companies He will start from here!

Chase' First "Bath"

2011-08-11T19:36:00.000-07:00

Hendricks Boys Totem Pole

2011-08-11T19:21:00.000-07:00

Somehow JJ managed to rock Chase to sleep while Daniel made his best attempts to wrestle his daddy to the ground.

Guess Who?

2011-08-07T15:41:00.000-07:00

Lots of our visitors tell us Daniel and Chase look very similar and we agree. We decided to run a little test. Two pictures below. One is Chase and one is Daniel. Who is who? Answer in the comments below.

Option #1

Option #2

Big Brother

2011-08-05T16:10:00.000-07:00

As was expected, Daniel is going through the list of emotions that come with adding a new center attraction to the home. He has definitely had some not-like-himself meltdowns and whining sessions. He has also been discouraged that he can't throw balls to (rather, at) his brother. And learning how to hug gently and not poke the baby has been a learning curve. BUT, at the end of the day, as you can see below, he loves "my baby Chase" as he says.

Daniel in Quarantine

2011-08-05T08:36:00.000-07:00

It is amazing how similar Chase and Daniel are. They look very similar, have the same last name, and they are reaching developmental goals at the same time. On Daniel's second day he peed all over his stuffed lion. This morning, Day #2, Chase peed all over Daniel. I guess its the circle of life.

Luckily for Daniel we didn't put him in a quarantine bag, but we did wash him quickly and change his soiled shirt.

JJ was changing Chase's diaper and Daniel had climbed up on the changing table to watch. Right after I had taken off the diaper a stream of pee came up and hit Daniel in the shirt and hands. Daniel didn't move to try and get away but stood there in shock as he kept on getting peed on.

We cleaned Daniel up and all he could say was "Chase pee" and then laughed.

Daniel & Hip Hop

2011-08-04T12:16:00.000-07:00

We went to the Dragon Boat Festival in Denver four days before Chase was born and Daniel saw a hip hop dance troupe do some fancy moves.

When we got home he spent the first hour trying to jump onto his hands and push up into the air - his favorite move of the hip hop group.

Here are some of his latest moves.

Watch What You Ask For

2011-08-04T06:34:00.000-07:00

Chase,

I have been praying these last few weeks that you would come a little early and that your arrival in this world would come after a much shorter labor and delivery process than I experienced with your brother. In fact, jokingly, I had told your dad and others that I desired to show up at the hospital just in time to deliver.

WATCH WHAT YOU ASK FOR!

I woke up at 2:30 yesterday morning with contractions that were maybe 10-15 min apart. Within an hour and a half my contractions were five minutes apart ... then three minutes apart ... uh oh! ... and we were out the door. (At this point I was glad I had asked your dad to read the road-side birthing instructions from our Kaiser handbook!)

I arrived at the hospital a bit after 5a.m. 8cm dilated, was rushed to the birthing room, embraced an hour of fast and furious contractions, a little pushing, and at 6:20am there you were! No drugs, no time, no more than a whimper when you came into the world.

Welcome, Chase Emmanuel. This is YOUR story.

Love you.

Mommy

Here's a little peek at your family ... you didn't want to see your own face, did ya? More photos of you and your big brother to come.

Chase Makes the Cutest Baby Noises

2011-08-03T11:51:00.000-07:00

Whenever Chase is asleep he makes the cutest baby whimpering sounds. It's great. An easy way for us to know he is still breathing with no problems and it is a sweet little lullaby for us to fall asleep to as well.

Chase Emmanuel Hendricks Is Born

2011-08-03T07:44:00.000-07:00

Today at 6:20am Chase Emmanuel Hendricks was born. He is doing great and so is Angie but wow was that fast. Some of you might remember, Angie sure did, that Daniel took 26 hours of labor before he came into the world. Chase took a whole 3 hours and 40 minutes.

Everything has been as smooth as we could ask for, definitely an answered prayer.

Chase is 7 lbs 6 oz and 20 inches long. Right at the 50 percentile in all categories and super cute - practically perfect in every way.

Here are some pictures of Chase during his first few hours.

Daniel Plays Peek-A-Boo With Cannon

2011-07-29T15:21:00.000-07:00

Daniel loves playing with other kids. We're really hoping that carries over to his brother even if the first few months or so baby brother doesn't do much.

Recently one of Daniel's best play buddies has been Cannon, who unfortunately moved to Texas with his parents. But we got this video of Daniel making Cannon laugh the day before Cannon moved.

High Altitude, Storms and Red Wine

2011-07-27T09:34:00.000-07:00

So if this baby was meant to come early, it surely would have been yesterday. I drove to the top of Mt. Evans (14,000+ feet) with our summer interns from work and hung out in Idaho Springs, also at elevation. In the evening a storm system came in while I enjoyed an evening and a full glass of wine with a girlfriend.

But alas, no baby. However, my doctor's appointment today did reveal that I am 3 1/2 cm dilated and 80 percent effaced, which means baby is on his way.

The photo below is just for fun, and to scare the rangers. No contractions on the mountain!

You Will Be Here Before We Know It

2011-07-25T20:49:00.000-07:00

Dear ... ah, ah, ah ... I guess I can't divulge your name just yet, little guy. Daddy wants to keep it a secret until your arrival in this world, which is days away.

Well, you know just who I am talking to. That's right. Our second born, our second boy, our special, one and only you. Like I did with your brother, I thought I would offer you a little welcome into our family.

As you have heard from the inside of my belly, you have a very loud, very busy, very smart older brother. Your dad and I know you will learn a lot from him - both the good and the bad. You have also bore the brunt of his rambunctiousness - Yes. That was him kicking you last night as he decided to speed skate across mommy to get to daddy, where he proceeded to to jump on your dad's chest as if it was a bouncy castle ... a bouncy castle? You will know what those are soon enough, and like your brother, not want to come out once you have entered the plastic house of play.

You also have a mommy and daddy who love you immensely and can't wait to see just what you look like, to see just what your personality is like, to hug you and kiss you and help you ease into the world. (We've got the swaddling blankets, rocking chair and bouncy seat all ready.)

You also have lots of grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends that can't wait to meet you and love on you. We have been so fortunate to have a village of people help us raise your brother, and things will be no different for you, little one. We are blessed!

So rest assured, my little man, you are coming into this world not alone, but with a strong support network in place. We love you and we can't wait to see you.

That being said, any chance you would like to join us a little early?

Photo taken four weeks before due date.

Daniel Makes JJ Very Happy

2011-07-25T14:53:00.001-07:00

JJ has been known to play some video games on occasion and Daniel has noticed and taken an interest in video games and always tries to play when Daddy does. We bought Daniel a copy of Nintendogs and let him play on his own with JJ's old Nintendo DS that already has lots of scratches on the screen (No 3DS for you yet Daniel).

Almost every day Daniel will ask to play "Doggies" and will throw them a frisbee, give them a wash, or feed them. He is pretty good at finding the items he wants and takes pretty good care of the dogs. They do have a bit of a flea problem from a lack of brushing (Daniel doesn't like that chore I guess).

Moved An Apostrophe

2011-07-25T14:52:00.000-07:00

A few people have asked us during the last month or two if we were going to make a new blog for Baby #2 since the first blog was called "Little Bean's Adventures". We decided to move an apostrophe so it is now "Little Beans' Adventures" and works for both kids and all their future antics.

This is also easier for everyone. You don't need to remember a new blog. We don't need to create one. And we won't have to decide "Which blog should we post the story about Daniel cutting #2's hair?" or "#2 biting Daniel". All the stories will be in the same place.

Summer in Full Swing

2011-07-06T06:45:00.001-07:00

The summer wouldn't be summer without Grandpa Tiger's annual trip to Water World! Daniel rode all the rides, including "Journey to the Center of the Earth" and "Pharaoh's Tomb," which mommy was not aloud to go on because she is very pregnant.

The cousins came down to visit a few weeks ago. Daniel enjoyed every minute of his time together with Aravis, Jericho, Haven and Gideon - he repeats their names around the house constantly. Nothing like a choo-choo ride to bond the family together!

Last week Pop-Pop and Christen came to visit ... to go to the zoo, wade in the creek, play soccer, spray water, do chores around the house with a hammer and eat pizza at Daniel's favorite restaurant (twice)!

Yay for birthday parties and pools! Daniel's friends Mason and Kennedy both celebrated their 2nd birthdays this last weekend, and they both celebrated with a splash! Good thing. It was almost 100 degrees both days.

Summer Fun Has Begun

2011-06-13T19:26:00.000-07:00

Our friends Brett and Julie are moving back to Texas and for their going away party we had a crawfish broil. We weren't surprised at all when Daniel played with the live crawfish before cooking. But we were surprised at how much he enjoyed eating them once they were cooked. He ate a dozen crawfish throughout the night and spent a good five minutes trying to open his own. He hasn't sucked the heads out yet, but we'll work our way up to that.

Every summer Angie helps run summer camps for inner city kids and this year Daniel got to play, too. He loved running around with the big kids and he did a really good job of listening and paying attention. The picture shows Daniel listening to the counselors before running under a giant parachute.

A few weeks ago Daniel really got into painting. He asks to paint a picture almost every day. The paintings are quite impressionistic at this point. As you can tell from the picture he is in a bit of a "black period".

Oh, What a Summer This Will Be!

2011-05-14T08:39:00.001-07:00

We found a special spot along the Cherry Creek River that we like to call "The Bayou."We'd tell you where it is but one of the best things about our little spot is that it's a well-kept secret. Sorry!

Dance Party at Daniel's Birthday

2011-04-25T06:40:00.001-07:00

Daniel really likes dance music like Blackeyed Peas, Shakira, or anything with a strong beat. This is Daniel dancing at his birthday party. He's heard the song enough he's developed different hand motions at certain points.

Thank Sebastian Delgado for teaching Daniel most of these moves.

And a Happy Easter!

2011-04-24T20:00:00.001-07:00

Happy 2nd Birthday Daniel!

2011-04-24T19:58:00.000-07:00

Gonna Bang on the Drum All Day

2011-04-18T10:35:00.000-07:00

Daniel,

You are gifted in many ways, one of those being musical. You have an ear for music, whether on the radio in the car or faintly floating in the background at the supermarket. You love to dance, and you have your own moves for songs like, "If You are Happy and You Know it" all the way down the spectrum to "The Time" by the Black Eyed Peas. (The latter is a must see!)

This enjoyment for music that you have came through the other week at the moms and tots date we had at Julie's house. You rocked the djembe, rattled the maracas, and danced yourself silly.

You are a rock star! ... Literally.

Love you.

Mommy

Joy in Small Places

2011-04-12T06:23:00.000-07:00

Daniel,

A few nights ago we went to Dairy Queen for a treat, a treat that you had all of two bites of before you were off running around the ice cream shop checking out everything in the freezers, the other patrons enjoying their own family time, and playing with another boy at the little play table that looked oddly out of place by the front door.

A few minutes into your play, an older man seated near us asked if you were always this joyful. Your daddy and I looked at each other, smiled, and responded confidently, "yes. As a matter of fact, he is."

You truly are a boy who finds joy in all circumstances, with all company. What a blessing. I pray that you will always find joy in this world, in the God who created it and the love He has for you.

Love you, buddy!

Confession: the trip to DQ was really for mommy and the little baby growing inside her belly!

Double Trouble

2011-04-04T18:42:00.000-07:00

No. 2 in all his glory.

Looks like Angie is still queen of the house.

Story Time Brought To You By Daniel

2011-03-30T10:20:00.000-07:00

Story 1: Push. Bastian. Waaa Waaa (makes face like crying). NO! Boom.

Story 2: Door. Stuck. No! Mom. Door.

Story 3: Chair. Boom. Knee. Oww.

These are a few of the stories Daniel has told us during the past few weeks. He really likes telling me what happened during the day when I was gone at work, but sometimes it is hard to tell exactly what happened. In story 1 I know either Daniel pushed Sebastian down or Sebastian pushed Daniel down, then there tears, then someone got in trouble. That one happened at his sitters house so I haven't heard the story with complete sentences yet.

Story 2 is Daniel's favorite and if you ask him about "garage doors" he will surely tell you too. Daniel was playing outside and opened the door to the garage and went inside. He then turned the dead bolt on the door in just the right spot so the door couldn't close anymore and couldn't open either because it would hit a shelf in the garage. Daniel started yelling for help and Angie went out to help him. She couldn't open the door from the outside so she went to her car and used the garage door opener.

It is really fun to hear Daniel recount his adventures during the day and hear what parts of the story he knows how to say and/or thinks are memorable.

"Mommy"

2011-02-28T10:13:00.000-08:00

Doesn't every mom love hearing their toddler affectionately say "mommy" when he or she is looking for you, is in need of a snack, wants to play a game or even better: wants to cuddle?

Not this mom.

Let me explain. Since Daniel started to speak he has referred to me as "mom-mom." Even after he sharpened his speech and started calling JJ "daddy" he still called me "mom-mom." I became comfortable with the idea that it would be my title for good. But, that doesn't seem to be the case. This week Daniel has started calling me "mommy." I love Daniel no matter what he calls me and am happy to be his "mommy," but I am temporarily missing "mom-mom."

Daniel is growing up, and just like calling me "mom-mom" is a phase that will pass, so will others too. I guess this mom just needs to embrace the changes and find joy in all the newness that her son will forever bring her way.

Duck Duck Goose

2011-02-16T13:45:00.000-08:00

A month ago Daniel and I were sitting on the floor practicing our usual wresting routine when Daniel got up, said "duck," and started running around me in circles. "Duck ... duck ...duck."

Daniel's version of Duck Duck Goose was created.

I Got This

2011-02-15T08:03:00.000-08:00

Daniel is more and more self-sufficient with each passing day. Soaping up in the tub with his ducky bubbles is just one of the ways he is taking care of his own needs.

Hint-Hint!

2011-02-12T16:12:00.000-08:00

Snow At Last

2011-02-12T08:03:00.000-08:00

We are finally getting our share of winter weather in Denver. It took a while, but we are finally getting some snow, and Daniel is eating it up! (Literally and figuratively!)

Daniel tromps around our yard and those of our neighbors, sturdy and steadfast like a proud soldier on the battlefield. Daniel and his daddy constructed their first snowman together. The sled has been around the block more than a few times, and as the snow melts Daniel has created many games that entail icicles and our water drain.

On Belay, Belay On

2011-01-17T13:33:00.000-08:00

Angie came into Daniel's room a few days ago to see Daniel had learned how to climb up his changing table.

It is pretty handy for us. We can always get him on the changing table now. Before, he would start playing hide-and-seek as soon as we said "Let's change your diaper."

I'm sure this is the first of many things Daniel will climb - trees, fences, mountains, corporate ladders, etc

Daniel Loves Demolition

2010-12-27T11:22:00.000-08:00

Once Had a Horse Named Napoleon

2010-12-26T11:20:00.000-08:00

Basketball Hoop for Christmas

2010-12-25T11:09:00.000-08:00

One of Daniel's many presents this Christmas was a basketball hoop. It's the perfect size for him right now and adjusts up to 6 feet.

After we installed the basket downstairs he promptly found every ball in the basement and tried dunking it too:

* 3 soccer balls
* 4 bouncy balls
* 3 wuffle balls
* 2 baby toys shaped like balls
* 2 multi-colored balls
* 1 racketball
* 1 miniature basketball
* 1 toy car

2010-12-16T05:49:00.000-08:00

Daniel wrestles with Grandpa Warren

Grandpa Warren wrestles with a dog

Bikes are fun but reallllly cold

Daniel and Carl share some cookies

This episode of CSI is really boring

More Photos of Daniel

2010-12-15T05:31:00.000-08:00

Which is better? A new dishwasher or the box it came in

Daniel is a very, very generous host

Daniel playing in the leaves

I like Lego's like my Dad and so does Aravis

Peanut Butter is good even outside of Reese's

Christmas Lights and Decorations

2010-12-14T06:07:00.000-08:00

I helped decorate the Christmas tree

We went to the Zoo Lights

And saw real Giraffes

Look Trav - I rode a black panther

Daniel in Costume

2010-12-14T05:29:00.000-08:00

We have a bunch of photos we haven't posted during the last few months so we are going to do a series of posts with some of our favorites.

Daniel at Children's Museum

Daniel with all his trick-or-treat friends

I love Halloween and Reese's

Daniel got the hang of trick-or-treating very quickly

Popcorn is even better than Reese's

So Big

2010-11-10T09:22:00.000-08:00

You do so much now that you are a big boy, Daniel.
I'm afraid I don't know when you started all your new tricks, however.

For instanace, When was it that you started saying "goodbye" to inanimate objects? Your toys, your books, the backyard, and all construction vehicles get a proper "goodbye."

When was it that you got so good at recognize people in photographs. Just today you pulled out my driver's license and said, "mom-mom."

When was it that you learned you could get what you wanted if you just said, "please."

When was it that you decided you wanted to make your own peanut butter and jelly sandwiches?

When was it that you learned the word, "no?"

When was it that you became so skilled at getting your own dining room chair, dragging it to wherever you want, climbing on top of that chair and then grabbing the banana off the counter, finding the pens in the drawers, playing with the dirty dishes in the sink and reaching all those once-off-limits items in the cupboard?

Today and Always

2010-11-10T07:02:00.000-08:00

Daniel,

I'm amazed. I'm proud. I'm in love.

With each new word you speak - today was "meatball" - I get excited for the next word, and anticipate the day you will say the sentence, "I love you."

Every time you say "hello" to an elderly person - you don't miss a one! - I'm proud that you already love seniors and want to make them smile.

When you pucker up with those big lips and come in for a kiss I melt and simply wish the moment would last longer than it does.

You are a special, little boy, Daniel. Today and always.

Love you.

Mom

Trick or Treat!

2010-10-31T13:34:00.000-07:00

Oh, the the fun we've had this fall!

2010-10-30T09:01:00.000-07:00

A Year and a Half

2010-10-24T19:55:00.001-07:00

Daniel Reads and Makes Animal Sounds

2010-10-12T17:17:00.000-07:00

During the last two weeks Daniel has started enjoying books and being read to. Before this, he would slither out of our arms and run to the nearest ball.

His favorite books have pictures of animals or babies. He loves making the animal sounds or kissing the babies. Below is a video of Daniel making his animal sounds.

Daniel Plays More Soccer

2010-10-09T17:48:00.000-07:00

We've shown quite a few soccer videos on the blog considering Daniel is only 17 months old. He is really good though (I know I'm biased) and it is his favorite activity right now.

He dribbled the soccer ball in the backyard for about 15 minutes. Dribbling back and forth, in circles, and switching balls every so often.

Grandpa Tiger, you will be glad to see Daniel even uses his left foot a couple times in the video and he naturally dribbles away from defenders.

Daniel Learns to Love the Vaccum

2010-10-09T17:41:00.001-07:00

Daniel used to hate the vacuum cleaner. Every time I would turn it on he would start screaming and crying. We bought him a little vacuum cleaner of his own to use for a few days and then tried using the real vacuum again.

Daniel and the vacuum are now good friends.

Daniel Takes Out Trash

2010-09-09T16:38:00.000-07:00

Every couple of days Daniel decides he should grab the trash can and help pull it across the house. He usually takes it to the front door (if he doesn't get distracted or beaten by the rug).

Daniel Competes in a Dance Off

2010-08-26T20:11:00.000-07:00

Daniel, Angie, and I went to Salida, Colorado for a weekend getaway. In downtown Salida there was a small car show with some 60's music and a dance competition. Of course Daniel wanted to join in.

I think his dance moves look very similar to Flashdance. "He's just a steel town boy on a Saturday night looking for the time of his life. He's a maniac, maniac, on the floor"

Daniel Entertains With Physical Comedy

2010-08-25T20:36:00.000-07:00

Daniel knows his audience likes physical comedy so he doesn't mind beating himself up a bit for a few laughs. He even pauses between balls to the face to make sure everyone is watching. I just hope he doesn't learn how funny a football to the groin can be.

Little Boys

2010-08-25T20:06:00.000-07:00

Little Boys

Author: Lorayne Stevenson

In and out of weeds and dirt.
squealing, laughing, getting hurt.
Arms held out for loves and hugs.
Tiny fingers finding bugs.
Rough and tumble, sweet and shy.
Snuggling for a lullaby.
Who could name the countless joys
That come from raising little boys.

My memories from Auntie Jen's Visit

2010-08-07T06:52:00.000-07:00

Auntie Jenny Was Here

2010-07-25T20:02:00.000-07:00

... and there were bubbles!

Daniel Loves 4th of July

2010-07-07T17:45:00.000-07:00

A Realtor put American flags in every yard in our neighborhood in honor of the 4th of July. Daniel thinks this is the best thing ever.

Every time we go outside he walks to a neighbors house and grabs a flag. He then walks to the next house and grabs their flag too. When he gets to another flag he drops one of the first two in order to grab the third and so the game continues.....

After the walk is done Mom and Dad put all the flags back so Daniel can repeat it again tomorrow.

The Similarity is Striking

2010-07-07T17:38:00.000-07:00

If anyone finds a baby Tanooki Suit please let us know.

Learning to Feed Myself

2010-07-07T17:19:00.000-07:00

Daniel is learning how to feed himself. He gets food in his mouth about 30% of the time so the other 70% ends up on his nose, hair, fingers, or his high chair.

Unless he is SUPER hungry we have a hard time feeding him ourselves. He always wants to use the spoon.

Mom and Dad Miss You

2010-06-28T20:45:00.000-07:00

Daniel - We're on a cruise but we miss you very much. Have fun with Nanna.

We look forward to coming back home and playing with you more!

Daniel Plays Soccer Better Than France

2010-06-26T18:20:00.000-07:00

The French soccer team failed to make it out of the first round (and the players went on strike during the tournament). Daniel is only 14 months old now but he shows more skill than the French World Cup team.

Daniel Makes a Breakfast Smoothie

2010-06-25T18:08:00.000-07:00

Daniel's favorite breakfast (and his healthiest too) is a fruit smoothie. Once he sees the blender come out he gets really excited and moans and grunts until he can see what is happening on the counter. We decided it is better to let him help.

Ssssluuuuurrrrrrp!!!

2010-06-23T20:04:00.000-07:00

14 Months ... Almost

2010-06-14T20:31:00.000-07:00

And these are a few of my favorite things:

1. Playing with water
2. Kicking the ball around
3. Fruit Smoothies
4. Waving bye-bye to every car that drives by
5. Sticks
6. Dada
7. Pushing my stroller
8. French Fries
9. Marmee Mondays
10. Pulling my socks off

Summer is Here

2010-06-05T07:33:00.001-07:00

... and it is good!

How do Bird's See Daniel

2010-05-23T10:36:00.000-07:00

Gary Larson made the comic above with that caption "How birds see the world".

That is exactly how they see Daniel too.

Daniel was hit with bird poop!

He was innocently playing in the grass when a bird decided to use Daniel as target practice. Daniel didn't seem to mind much and luckily it just hit his clothes and not his hair or face.

Where Are Dad's Keys?

2010-05-22T10:17:00.000-07:00

Daniel is very good at walking now and goes all over the house on his own. He explorers everywhere and investigates everything. He also loves playing with JJ's keys. Lately, he's learned how to combine the two activities into a super fun game called "hide Dad's keys".

Here are a few of the places we've found them over the course of a week.

The last one took Angie and I more than 30 minutes to find. He had gone into our bedroom, opened the closet, put the keys inside a clothes bin, and then shut the closet door behind him.

I think Daniel is going to be really good at hide-and-seek.

Soooooooooooo Big!

2010-05-07T21:36:00.000-07:00

Your "Auntie" Heather always plays a game with you that asks, "How big is Daniel?" And then she answers while raising her arms real tall, "thiiiiiiiis big!"

She's right, my son. You are really growing into a big boy. Praise God for your strength, your health and the joy life brings you.

I'm One!

2010-04-25T17:27:00.000-07:00

Yay!!!!!!!

Daniel,

What a marvelous celebration was had for your very first birthday. A crowd of friends and family gathered at our home out of love and continued support for you, your dad and I. We are so blessed. There are many memories from the day we had, a few that I want to share with you below.

1. You cried right before you got your cake because mom was running around the house looking for a lighter to light the candle and you could see dad holding your cake. (You ended up going without a candle.)

2. You ate not only some of your own cake, but then part of your dad's cupcake and grandpa Tiger's, too. Not to mention the night before, on your actual birth date, you had chicken tacos and your first apple pie a la mode! Thanks Nona and CB.

3. You ate dirt for the first time. You hated it.

4. McKenna was so unhappy getting into a wagon with you and Mason that she jumped ship head first. (Notice McKenna's little legs to the left of the photo.)

5. For lunch you had PB & J, but you still seemed to have room for pizza and cake, and more pizza.

6. You were given some very nice toys, including toy trucks, sports equipment and a gumball machine that took no time to navigate. You also now have a pass to the Denver Aquarium, a pool for the backyard and some new clothes and books.

7. Auntie Megs and I, (mom), opened all your gifts once you crashed after all your guests left (two hours after your usual nap time).

8. The morning of your actual birthday (Friday, April 23) there was a rain/snow storm that lead to a leak through the roof of the sun room. Praise God for better weather Saturday afternoon. No one had our roof come crashing down on their heads!

9. The morning after your birthday you had one of the biggest diaper blow-outs in a long time.

10. The day after your birthday you set a new record walking around the dining room table three times without stopping. It was a great way to walk off all that cake!

Congratulations, Daniel. You are one year old!

Daniel Can Play Soccer

2010-04-22T13:02:00.000-07:00

Daniel takes after his dad and loves playing soccer. "A good soccer player doesn't have a best foot" as Coach Tiger (JJ's Dad) would always say, and Daniel can use both his right and left foot.

We're sending this video to Liverpool in hopes that they will sign him to a contract now before everyone else spots Daniel's raw talent. Liverpool might be the only team Daniel would play for though after our friend Patrick gave him a Liverpool jersey as a present.

Daniel Walks On His Own

2010-04-21T18:12:00.000-07:00

Daniel is now walking all on his own and boy does he love it. He started off with two or three steps and then would fall over, but as you can see in this video he is now able to walk all the way across our living room in pursuit of a ball.

I'm Almost A Year Old

2010-04-16T09:27:00.000-07:00

... and some of my favorite things are:

1. Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwiches
2. Giving the high-five
3. My swing
4. The slide
5. Being Outside
6. Going for rides in my wagon
7. My cousins Aravis, Jericho, Haven and Gideon
8. Balls! Kicking them. Throwing them. Looking at them!
9. Dancing in my crib when I first wake up
10. Pulled pork sandwiches - no joke!

I have recently learned to stand by myself and take a few steps. (Video coming soon!)

I am also now saying "bye-bye," "ball," and "car" in addition to "dada," "mama," "dog" and "uh-oh."

Friends

2010-04-08T08:25:00.000-07:00

If friends were flowers, I'd pick you!

-author unknown

This is my buddy Matt. He and his mom are big on the zoo, which is good for me because they invite me along. Matt's a few months younger than I am but he already has seven teeth. Imagine all the food I could eat with seven teeth!

This is Mason. He's one cheerful, dude. Our dad's are best buddies, which means I can bank on Mason being my brother for years and years to come.

Oh. Her? Well, she is ... well, despite the fact that all little girls have cooties, Faith and I enjoy playing together. My mom tells me that when I was little Faith, 3, would feed me my bottle. She also watched me get my diaper changed - embarrassing. I hope that won't hurt my chances of a first date when we are 18.

This is Anna. She and I like to dance to the worship music together at church. We also try to rock the seats in front of us as hard as we can!

McKenna, sorry my parents couldn't find a more recent photo of us. We are both a lot bigger now, and I don't cry when we are together like I am doing in this photo.

You Do What You Gotta Do

2010-04-07T07:11:00.000-07:00

Daniel has been sick these last few days, which means he has been a bit needier than usual. This morning JJ and I were trying to accomplish a few tasks around the house while Daniel was in a state of needing to be close to mommy and daddy. The solution?

You do what you gotta do!

Happy Easter!!!

2010-04-05T13:32:00.000-07:00

...yesterday!!!