The Rennie Crew

Bingo and Valentine's Day Date

2012-02-14T20:20:00.000-06:00

This past weekend, Tom and I had 2 date nights in a row.

On Friday night, our community had a Bingo Night at the community association. They provided food and soft drinks, but we brought our own beer (Tom) and wine (me). It turned out to be a great night. Tom won the first game and received a gift card to In-N-Out Burger and I won the next to last game and got a Applebee's gift card.

I love Bingo

Beer and wine - good times!

The loot

Saturday night, we took the kids up to school for Parents Night Out and then Tom and I went out to dinner at Bailey's Prime Plus in Fairview. It was a nice, relaxing dinner and we enjoyed eating a full meal without any interruptions.

Flowers from Tom - so pretty

What's funny is that our waiter turned out to be the ex-owner of the place that we held our rehearsal dinner at over 4 years ago. We caught up with him for a little while and he even gave both of us free desserts. Yum!

Random Photos

2012-02-14T20:03:00.000-06:00

Tommy shopping like a big boy

Bulk shopping is fun - especially when you get free samples. :)

Grace didn't care about the Super Bowl - she would rather read.

School Bus time

Grace pointing out the best part of the book.

Grace's 11 Month Photos

2012-02-08T14:33:00.000-06:00

On Sunday, my mom and I took Grace in for her 11 month pictures.

Once again she was the happiest baby before we went in the room, but once we got in there she turned completely serious. Oh well - we still got some great pictures. :)

At 11 months Grace isn't doing much more than what I posted on her 10 month post. She is scooting a lot more and can make it into the kitchen from the family room in no time at all. She's also eating a little more table food and we are practicing with her sippy cup more. At school they say she does great, but at home - not so much. :)

We love our little Grace!

Boys Night/Girls Night

2012-02-02T21:31:00.000-06:00

Last Saturday, Tom, Tommy, Charlie and Chuck went out for a boy's night to the Allen Americans hockey game. Tommy and Charlie had a great time - and even ate some of the $2 hot dogs.

That same night, Grace, Chris and I stayed home and had a girls night. Grace was still sick, but in a great mood. We played, Chris made dinner and then we watched the movie What's Your Number?. It was a cute movie and we had a great time not running around after our rowdy boys!

Grace's 10 Month Pictures

2012-01-31T22:05:00.000-06:00

A couple weeks ago (bad blogger) I took Grace in for her 10 month pictures and I'm just now getting around to posting them. Oops!

At 10 Months Grace can:

Scoot all over the floor (she prefers that to crawling)
Starting to crawl backwards
Drinking out of a sippy cup
Trying to pull up on things
Has 8 teeth - 4 on top and 4 on bottom
Can say "Uh-Oh", "Ma-Ma", & "Da-Da"
Loves splashing in the bathtub with Tommy

Birthday Party at Pump It Up

2012-01-21T21:08:00.000-06:00

Tommy and I had a busy morning/afternoon today!

First off, we headed up to Great Clips to get his hair trimmed - it was looking a little shaggy. He was still a little nervous about it, so I had to hold him in my lap. The guy doing it was good and fast and we were on our way 15 minutes after we got there.

After the hair cut, we headed over to Pump It Up for one of Tommy's classmates birthday party. I wasn't sure how Tommy would do - since he's hot and cold on bounce houses. I guess I didn't need to be that worried, since he was one of the first ones to go in the room. He had his shoes off before I even got to the room!

The parties there are split in 3 sections. You start out in one room full of bounce houses for 40 minutes, head into the next room of even bigger bounce houses and then go in the party room for pizza and cake.

Tommy and his girlfriend , Emma, pretty much hung out together the whole time. Tommy must have wanted some mommy time though, because he made me go into one of the bigger bounce houses with him (there were other parents in there too).

Tommy & Emma

Wondering what kind of trouble he should get into next

With all the bounce houses they played with the car they all have at home

Tommy, Emma and Andrew waiting for pizza

Landon at the throne

Cake time

Vegas Trip - 2011

2012-01-18T21:42:00.000-06:00

Last weekend, Tom and I met his parents in Vegas for our annual trek to the city.

We ended up staying at Aria - they comped 2 Corner Suites for us and even got to take a limo to the hotel. Nice!

We pretty much ate and gambled the whole time we were there. Some of the yummy places we ate at included; Prime Steakhouse (Bellagio), Tod English Pub (Aria), The Pub (Monte Carlo) and Mon Ami Gabi (Paris). Thank goodness we did a lot of walking - hopefully that helped us burn a lot of calories.

I didn't take many pictures when we were there this time, but I did get a couple shots in the limo.

P.S. On our last night, Diana and I were trying out a new slot machine when this girl a section over hit a $23K jackpot on a quarter machine. It was a little depressing! :(

Going For A Ride

2012-01-18T21:21:00.000-06:00

Tommy is such a good big brother - he doesn't mind (most of the time) sharing his toys with Grace.

He actually got excited about pushing her around in his car.

Grace is Happy (and she knows it)

2012-01-06T20:58:00.000-06:00

Grace FINALLY participated when I had my camera!

Christmas/New Year's Celebration with my parents

2012-01-06T20:48:00.000-06:00

Last weekend, we traveled to my parents house in east Texas to celebrate Christmas and New Year's.

Saturday morning after the kids got up, we all opened our gifts. The kids got a lot of nice things (clothes, toys, money, etc.) from my parents and aunts/uncles. Tom and I also made out like bandits.

I got my Kindle (I'm a little obsessed with it - sorry Tom) and Tom got a new helicopter (my 3rd child likes toys - haha) and some tools.

The kids waiting to open presents

Grace & Grandma

My dad opening his gifts (he always has to guess before opening - and he's usually right)

Kimmie & Kylee

Dr. Tommy?

All Grace cared about was eating - haha!

Someone liked their gift

Grace getting in on the action

Tom and his mini-me

Tommy & Grandpa pillow fighting

Christmas at the Casa

2011-12-29T23:19:00.003-06:00

Before and after we got back from Pennsylvania, we opened our gifts at home. We spread it out, because we didn't want the kids (Tommy - haha) getting upset about not getting to play with their toys before we left.

Tom got me a new Kate Spade purse and wallet, jammies and Play-Doh (an inside joke).

I got him a new watch, wallet, TicketCity Bowl tickets (Penn State is playing) and cuff links.

We got Tommy a grill and apron set, Mickey jammies, Mickey book & puzzle set, Microphone w/stand, monogrammed backpack, shoes (Chuck Taylors) and Mega Blocks.

Grace got a Cabbage Patch doll, a big activity center, Laugh and Learn Laptop, Mega Blocks (her and Tommy shared this gift) and some new clothes.

I do need to get a picture of Grace with her doll - anytime she sees her, she grabs her and puts her head against the doll and gives her a big hug. So sweet!

Tommy loved helping Grace open presents

Yea for Play-Doh

Sorry Tom - I spent all the money on the wallet :)

Feet are more fun than presents!

Tommy has his TX school bus now

A laptop? What do you mean I need to start earning my keep!

Taking orders!

One hot dog coming up.

Grace patiently waiting for her food.

Grace (and Tommy) playing with the new activity center

Christmas in PA

2011-12-28T23:56:00.000-06:00

This year, we traveled to Pittsburgh to celebrate Christmas with Tom's family.

We arrived in PA on Wednesday night at around 11:00. Tom and I were both happy/relieved by how well the kids did on the flight up there. Tommy sat by the window at first and then switched with me and Grace to watch movies with daddy.

Thursday and Friday were pretty relaxing day without much on the agenda. Friday afternoon/night neighbors and friends came over for a visit and some even stayed for Jioio's pizza (our favorite). :)

Tommy driving Pap-pap's MG

Grace hanging out

Grammy supervising Tommy and Anthony Jr.

Saturday morning, Tom and I headed to Pittsburgh for our annual Steelers game. It was pretty chilly (in the 30s) and we stayed until about 5 minutes left in the 4th quarter. Of course, they won! After stopping by the casino to warm up, we headed home to have dinner with the family and after getting the kids settled in - Tom, his dad and I headed to Christmas Eve mass.

Sunday, Tommy ran into our room to wake us up with Grace waking up a few minutes after that. I don't know how anyone can sleep when he's up - he's a loud talker - haha. He still doesn't really understand what Christmas is, but he know what we mean when we talk about presents! We all gathered in the living room to open presents and drink mimosas.

Waking up daddy on Christmas morning

Someone is excited about all the presents

Grace can't wait to help

Grace with Aunt Christine and Uncle Eddie

Tommy and Grace with Grammy and Pap-pap

After opening all the presents, having french toast for breakfast and getting ready - we all headed over to Tom's aunts house for Christmas dinner. After everyone ate, we played the Chinese Christmas game. I ended up with a new car charger (which I actually needed) and Tom ended up with a Steelers bottle opener key chain.

We headed back home on Monday afternoon. Let's just say that the kids received so many things that we weren't able to carry it all home in our 2nd suitcase. The ride home was surprisingly uneventful. Grace had one little crying spell, but after that she slept over an hour and Tommy watched movies and looked at some books.

What a fun trip!

Our Final Christmas Party of 2011 (Tom's Company)

2011-12-20T10:18:00.000-06:00

On Saturday evening, Tom and I headed over to Scott's house (a partner in the firm) for our final Christmas party.

We got there at about 7:30 - after stopping to pick up cigars - and figured other people would be rolling in since the party started at 7:00. When we walked in the front door everyone was up front doing the Dirty Santa game and was already up to number 18. I know we were both thinking - wow - these parties never start on time - but this is moving along.

Well.....come to find out that the party ACTUALLY started at 6:00 (I'm blaming this on Tom since it's his party - not mine). Oops! Oh well, we got our gift under the tree and I was next to pick out a gift. We ended up with a gift card to P.F. Changs. Woo-hoo! I'm just glad we didn't end up with the shaker weights. Those just look nasty - haha!

After we ate dinner, Tom and I went outside to go for our carriage ride. IT was a little chilly, but it was nice to ride around the neighborhood looking at all the Christmas Lights.

Once we got back, we headed out back (they have a huge outdoor living area) and stood by the fire, while talking to all Tom's co-workers. I meant to get a hot chocolate from the coffee guy, but he was gone before I made it over there.

Tommy & Grace's School Christmas Party

2011-12-18T22:47:00.000-06:00

On Friday, Tom and I went up to the kids school for their Christmas Party.

Grace's class had a party, but she is still to little to really participate so we stopped in long enough to give her kisses and hand the teachers their presents (cute Christmas holder with hot chocolate and Bath & Body Works), before heading over to Tommy's class.

Tommy was so excited to see us and he actually sat in his chair for a couple minutes before getting up to run around. As usual, he didn't eat anything on his plate except chips and fruit. He had a lot of fun, but was ready to leave pretty fast!

That night - the kids enjoyed playing with their toys together. :) They love each other sooooo much!

Grace's 9 Month Pictures

2011-12-18T20:42:00.000-06:00

On Friday, after the school parties I took Grace in for her 9 month pictures. She did okay - but she had a cold and was tired so we didn't get a lot of smiles out of her.

Children's Christmas Party 2011

2011-12-14T21:24:00.000-06:00

On Monday, Tom and I took the kids to Cowboys Stadium for the annual Children's Christmas party.

Tommy saw some other kids doing that pose!

We got there right at 5:00 and the first thing we did was take the family picture with Santa. It's only supposed to be the kids, but since Tommy was scared - we made it a family affair. I'm going to try and take a picture of the printout with my camera - but Tommy's face is hilarious. I don't know what in the heck he was doing - but his face is all scrunched up. Grace was just as funny - she was enamored with his beard. I think if we had been there a few seconds more - she would have grabbed a hold of it. Yikes!

After the photo, we grabbed a table and then Tommy and I went in search of food. They had plenty - chicken tenders, mini corn dogs, mini hot dogs, mini hamburgers, pizza, mini quesadillas and fruit cups. Oh, and they had a hot chocolate bar with cookies.

After Tommy DIDN'T eat his food, we all headed over to the train so daddy could take Tommy and Grace on it. I think all of them liked it. Once that was over, Grace and daddy went to play on the turf and Tommy and I walked around and ended up at this "funny" photo booth. Tommy choose to be a Cowboy and picked out a cowboy hat and bandanna that we tied around his neck. He truly looked like a little cowboy. I'll try to take a picture of this too - since I just have a hard copy.

My little cowboy

Look at that hat.

We ended up going on the train again and helped shut the place down (we stayed past "closing" - haha).

Fun party!!!

Baby Shower and a Birthday Party

2011-12-13T22:32:00.000-06:00

On Saturday, Diana (Tom's mom) and I headed over to Flower Mound to attend the baby shower of Tom's Aunt Marian. Baby Elizabeth is due on February 13th.

It was a nice shower with lots of food and presents.

Diana, Marian and Me

After the shower, we headed to Frisco to meet Tom, Tim and the kids so Tommy could attend a birthday party for one of the kids in his class. The party was held at a soccer complex and Tommy had a BLAST kicking the soccer ball around. I honestly think we might have a future soccer star on our hands.

Anytime you saw him - he was holding a soccer ball :)

Cheering section

He did make some time to take a couple bites of the banana cake from Candy Haven

2 Christmas Parties So Far

2011-12-12T23:41:00.000-06:00

Last week, Tom and I attended 2 Christmas Parties (and we still have 2 to go - dang!).

Our first party was Monday night and it was the Cowboy's Christmas Party held at the stadium. It was a really nice party. They always have valet parking and there are attendants right around the corner offering hors d'oeuvres as soon as you come in. This year they had the cutest ones - bite site brisket tacos and bite size Kobe beef burgers. These things were tiny! I actually feel sorry for the people that had to fill all those miniature taco shells. :)

The rest of the food and drinks were really good and the people watching was nice. Tom and I ended up leaving around 10 so we could get home to relieve our babysitters.

On Friday, Matt and Amy came by our house to pick us up and we headed downtown to The Crescent Hotel for a party hosted by one of Tom's clients.

They had a buffet dinner and some yummy desserts (like a Godiva Chocolate Cake). After we stuffed ourselves with all that food, we headed out to play the casino games they had set up. Since, Tom and I were the first people out there (go figure), one of the dealers spent the time to teach me some of the basics of craps. He did a pretty good job too - because I left the table with more money than Tom. :)

Look at all those chips.

At the end of the night, you trade in your "money" for raffle tickets for the door prizes. Tom and I actually got lucky and walked away with the Keurig Platinum Brewing System. Woo-hoo!

Grace's 9 Month Appointment

2011-12-12T22:25:00.000-06:00

Last week (on 12/6), we took Grace in for her 9 month appointment. The doctor said that everything looked great - and she is right on track doing everything she's supposed to.

She did have to get a foot prick and 2 shots. She DID NOT appreciate getting the shots and screamed her head off for a minute. Poor baby!!!

Her stats from the appointment:

Weight - 21 lbs. 5 oz. (86%)
Height - 28 in. (65%)
Head - 17 1/2 in. (63%)

My happy baby - before the shots

The closest we could get Tommy :)

Grace at 9 months:

Has 6 teeth (4 on top - the front ones and 2 middle ones on the bottom)
Likes to sleep on her tummy (now that she rolls over all the time)
Takes baths in the big bath tub
Doesn't mind sitting by herself on the floor and playing for a long time
Says "da-da", "maa" & "uh-oh" - she doesn't know what any of those mean :)
Eating stage 2 foods - but we are about to switch her to stage 3
She has a little stranger anxiety (it just started)
She can grasp the smallest things with her fingers

Christmas Tree Shopping/Decorating

2011-12-06T22:34:00.001-06:00

On Sunday, one of the colder, more dreary days we've had (which is the norm); we continued our annual tradition of going to pick out the Rennie Family Christmas tree.

We decided to go to the same place we've been for the last 3 years and ended up getting a nice 9 ft. Frasier fur for our formal living room. Tommy still wasn't himself, but overall I think he enjoyed the experience. Grace loved looking at all the Christmas trees and didn't seem to mind the COLD weather.

Someone is showing a little leg - oops!

After all the afternoon football games (geez dad) we all went into the front room to decorate. Tom did most of the work, while Tommy followed along side him and undid most of it - haha! Grace sat on the floor - content with watching her brother act like the little stinker he is. She also played with a ribbon roll most of the time (why buy toys)!

Here comes trouble.

There might be a little food on her face :)

Grace helping mommy - she always has that tongue out

Really daddy?

Finished product

Grace's 1st Haircut (and Tommy's haircut too)

2011-12-06T09:19:00.000-06:00

On Saturday, we decided that we should take Grace in for a haircut. We mainly wanted to get her bangs trimmed since they always get in her eyes and to clean up the back since it's LONG and a little dry/frizzy.

Remembering Tommy's first haircut we were a little nervous about how she would do, but she did great. She sat in the chair by herself and chewed/drooled on the card they give the kids for a prize at the end. We were so proud of her!

Since we were there, we went ahead and got Tommy's hair cut too. He loves wearing his hockey helmet around the house all the time and it makes his head so sweaty that we thought a shorter do would help with that. :)

Here are a few pictures that captured the moment:

Look at that long hair!

Trimming up the back (her hair seriously goes to the middle of her back when it's wet!)

First blow drying experience

She so looks like a mini-Tommy!

Someone still doesn't like getting their hair cut

I will put some new "do" pictures up later. I didn't have them on my Ipod touch.

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-12-03T18:33:00.000-06:00

We hosted Thanksgiving at our house again this year. Tom loves decorating and I love cooking so it works out. :)

We had a group of 12 (including the kids) to celebrate the holiday. Tom and Tim fried the turkeys and I made some of the side dishes. My dad brought his specialties - baked beans and deviled eggs - and Tina made broccoli rice casserole and 3 really good pies (pumpkin, pecan and apple).

First time wearing an apron :)

Yum! Fried Turkey

Tommy supervising

After dinner, most of the girls looked at the sale ads and the guys hung out on the patio watching football and smoking cigars.

Someone wanted to get some good deals

So did someone else

Kimmie feeding Kylee her last bottle before....

giving Tommy a bath

That night, my parents, Kimmie and I headed out around midnight for Black Friday shopping. We all were able to get everything on our lists and made it home around 5:30 in the morning. Yikes! Thankfully Tom got up with Tommy and Grace once they woke up around 8:00 on Friday.

Happy (really belated) Thanksgiving!

Family Photos & Grace's 8 Month Pictures

2011-11-21T15:26:00.000-06:00

On Saturday, we headed to Frisco for our family photo's and Grace's 8 month photo session. They were running close to an hour behind, but thank goodness our kids were still in a good mood by the time we got back there.

I think they turned out great and how cute are the kids!

Look at all that snow

Cutest munchkins ever!

Can I eat these? She's thinking about it.

Little angel

Little devil! :)

I love the chubby cheeks.

Yesterday, Grace started rolling over finally! She's been sitting up forever, but just started rolling over. She's also getting her 4 top front teeth in. I'll have to try and take a picture. One already broke through and the other 3 are almost there.

Celina Balloon Festival & Cowboys Game

2011-11-14T21:32:00.000-06:00

The 1st weekend in November, Christine came down for a visit and we made sure to keep her busy.

Saturday morning, we headed over to Celina for their annual balloon festival. I was excited for Tommy to see all the hot air balloons since he is obsessed with them. Let's just say the only balloons we saw were the helium filled ones. It was so windy, that they had to put the hot air balloons up.

Oh well! Tommy did get to see a lot of kites and go on a couple rides (almost as many as daddy - haha). Tommy and Charlie had fun playing in the Sesame Street bounce house and Grace had fun people watching.

Let's go daddy!

Grace always has her tongue out

Flying the plane

Let's be honest - daddy was the one who wanted to go down the slide..

On Sunday we headed out to Cowboys Stadium to watch the Cowboys take on the Seattle Seahawks. Tom gave it the okay because the Steelers had the night game. We had a lot of fun and Grace even managed to get a little nap in.

Tom and Christine

Grace is sporting the windblown look

All the excitement wore her out

Tom and I decided that the next time we need Tommy to sit down and be still, we will take him to a Cowboys game. He sat in his seat the whole time and didn't move an inch. He even cried at half-time when we needed to go up and grab a snack. :)

I have evidence that Tommy does sit still sometimes. ;)

Halloween Weekend 2011

2011-11-05T15:03:00.000-05:00

On Friday, Tom and I left work early to head up to the school for the Parade of Costumes and Tommy's Halloween Party.

Grace in the Parade of Costumes

As soon as Tommy saw us walk into his room, he was out of the seat saying he was ready to go (who leaves cookies, candy & chips on their plate - I mean come on Tommy). :) We made his sit down and enjoy his party with his friends - Grace even came over from her room to hang out with her favorite big brother.

Tommy is ready to go

Mommy and her ladybug

Ladybug & Hockey Puck Player

Happy Fall!

On Halloween night, we both got to leave work early and took both kids trick-or-treating and they had fun. Tommy would say "I scared" when we told him to go knock at the door and made us come with him. He had no trouble saying "Trick or Treat" to the people and picking out candy (suckers were his favorite) and saying "Thank you" as we left. I love the manners. :)

Tommy and neighbor Tim

Grace got a little fussy after a while, so her and daddy went home and I took Tommy to a few more houses in the neighborhood. Once we got home, Tommy loved running to the door when kids came and putting candy in their bags.

What a wonderful Halloween with both kids!

Grace and her Breathing Treatment

2011-10-29T15:21:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago, I had to take Grace to Acute Kids so they could check on this cough she had for a few days (that had gotten worse).

They prescribed some steroids and breathing treatments for her. Poor baby! Thankfully, she hasn't been as bad as Tommy was (he had done multiple treatments by the time he was Grace's age).

She did the treatments like a champ - well 75% of the time. I the only shot I got of her is a little blurry, but you can still see how cute she is. :)

Fall Festival/State Fair 2011

2011-10-21T15:35:00.000-05:00

Last weekend was a little busy for us.

Saturday afternoon, Chris, Chuck and Charlie went with us to the fall festival our community puts on. The boys had a lot of fun looking at the animals, riding the train and checking out the face painting.

Tommy in his bones shirt

Grace hanging out with daddy

There was a little incident at the end where Charlie's head connected with Tommy's nose (hence the blood in the picture below).

Tommy with his bloody nose and his hockey puck and stick

Sunday morning we headed to the State Fair. We got there right when they opened (and before the crowds).

Tommy and Grace enjoyed the Little Hands on the Farm. We took a break to eat (no fried foods this year) and then walked over to the Midway so Tommy could ride a couple rides. After taking FOREVER, he finally decided on this little airplane ride (which he was nervous of once we got on - but my talking and pointing stuff out to him calmed him down) and the train (which daddy rode with him).

It's VERY hard getting both kids to look at the camera

Farmer Tommy

Hauling Grace around

His face is so funny!

Grace enjoyed the people watching and even fell asleep for a while. I don't know how babies can sleep with all that noise!

Pumpkin Patch 2011/Taylor Swift

2011-10-15T22:58:00.000-05:00

Last Saturday, the four of us and my mom went to a Pumpkin Patch close to our house. It was kind of a waste of money. :(

Tommy did enjoy the petting zoo and sitting on the tractor (he would cry anytime we took him off. He did let Grace drive for a little bit and even showed her how to shift - haha!

The hay ride only went every hour and of course when we went to get on the rude guy told everyone that he would do another one in 30 minutes. I mean seriously, who wants to wait around for another 30 minutes!

Tommy cheating on the Hay Maze

Grace biting her finger - hoping Tommy comes out alive!

He sat on the pony long enough for me to take the picture - he was scared.

I drive mommy...

See Grace - this is where you shift gears.

Tommy & Gamma

That night, I was invited to a suite for the Taylor Swift concert at the stadium. I was so excited - if I didn't get invited, Tom was going to get me tickets. My mom and I had a blast and ate a lot of good food. The macaroni bar is the best. :)

Her special guest was B.O.B.

Hockey Puck Player & The Ladybug

2011-10-09T14:24:00.001-05:00

Yesterday, my mom and I took the kids in for their Halloween pictures.

Tommy wanted to be a Hockey Puck Player (his words) and Grace was a beautiful little ladybug. I'm not sure what was going on with Grace (maybe it was nap time), but she was very serious the whole session, so we didn't get a smile out of her. Oh well, the pictures are still really cute!

So sweet!

Tommy was being a little ham!

Future penguins player. :)

Grace - 7 Months

2011-10-09T14:05:00.000-05:00

On October 6th, my little chunky monkey turned 7 months! How is that even possible - we just had her. :)

At 7 months Grace:

Can sit up by herself
But she still can't roll over - I think she's only done it twice
Reaches for everything (and manages to get a lot of stuff that she shouldn't - like the remote or my necklace)
Just moved up to Stage 2 foods - she likes all the fruit, carrots, sweet potatoes & squash and is slowly starting to eat the green stuff
Started waking up at 4:00 in the morning talking in her bed -I think (hope) it's due to teething and is only a little phase
Loves to jumperoo as much as Tommy did
Talks a lot and still loves watching her brother

She is so sweet and will randomly give me hugs when I am holding her - it's the cutest thing!

Girlie Date Night & Pigtails

2011-09-30T19:28:00.000-05:00

Last Friday night my best friend Jocelyn came up and the two of us went out on a little date.

I dropped the kids off at Parents Night Out at their school and headed over to Casa Rita's Mexican Grill (http://www.casaritasmexicangrill.com/). It's a newer Mexican restaurant that I've been wanting to try and it didn't disappoint. I got the Guacamole Enchilada's and had 2 Mango Margaritas (yum)! It was nice just sitting there relaxing over drinks without chasing after kiddos.

After dinner, we headed over to the movies at Stonebriar to see I Don't Know How She Does It. Let's just say I wish I had saved my money. I knew it received bad reviews, but I still went in with high hopes. :(

After Jocelyn left early Saturday morning, I decided that Grace should have some pig tails in her hair since it's definitely long enough. Being the wiggly little booger she is - I couldn't get the part in the center, but I did manage to get 2 tails. ;)

"What did you do to me mom?"

She is just the cutest little girl!!

Grapefest 2011

2011-09-20T22:15:00.000-05:00

This past weekend our friends, Michelle, Byron and Madison came down to hang out and go to Grapefest. It's an annual tradition that we started 6 years ago.

This year we were smart and signed up for 2 tastings - instead of 1 and split the time with the boys. Michelle and I went to the first one and the boys went to the second one. We were able to go to each winery (and even hit a couple of our favorites twice).

Michelle and I after our tasting

Byron & Tom about to go to their tasting

While Tom and Byron were doing theirs, we took the kids over to ride some rides. I was a little nervous about how Tommy would do, since he was hesitant the year before when we took him to the State Fair. He did a great job and ended up riding 3 rides with Madison and the bumper cars with me. Haha! He's turning in to such a boy - wanting to ram things.

Tommy and Madison on their hog

Holding hands - WHAT!

Both kids in the drivers seat

Grace taking everything in

On the bumper cars - yes I had to take it myself

After riding the rides, we met back up with the guys and walked around some more before getting something to eat. It was getting to be a little later (close to 9) and Grace was getting a little fussy. She did great up until this point.

Tommy eating his hot dog - what's up with his face!

We got home and hung out a little after putting the kids to bed - they were all pooped!

Thanks again for coming down Pike's! We had a lot of fun as usual. :)

Tommy and Madison got along great!

Grace - 6 Month Appointment

2011-09-12T22:21:00.000-05:00

On Thursday, we took Grace in for her 6 month checkup and let's just say she's a chunky monkey!

Her stats:

Weight - 19 lb. (95%) - wow
Height - 26 in. (75%)
Head - 17 in. (75%)

Grace is such a happy baby (most of the time) and gets a little fussy in the evenings, Here are some other things she is doing at 6 months:

Sitting up some by herself (she's still unsteady most of the time)
Eating Stage 1 baby food (usually 1/2 container in the evening)
Rolling half way over - although Tom said she rolled all the way over while I was at their school Thursday night
Talking up a storm - started saying da-da - but she has no clue what she's saying
Jumping in the jumperoo a lot
Watching her big brother play and laughing at him
Mostly sleeping through the night - she's going through a crying in her sleep phase (it's hard since she started sleeping through the night around 2 months old)
Drooling up a storm - I think her top front teeth are about to push through
Going through a fussy stage in the evenings (crossing my fingers its a growth spurt that will pass)

My cute little chunky monkey

Tommy hanging out at the doctors

Grace & Her Jumperoo

2011-09-12T22:10:00.000-05:00

Grace takes after her big brother and loves to jump & play in her jumperoo.

Grace loves Tommy and he is such a good big brother!

Uncle Ricky's 60th Birthday

2011-09-06T22:08:00.000-05:00

On Sunday after dropping Tom's dad off at the airport, we headed over to our friend, Nancy's house, to celebrate my Uncle Ricky's (my mom's brother) 60th birthday.

Me, Ricky & Nancy

It was a lot of fun. We ate a lot of food, Tom and Tommy cooled off in the pool and my aunt's hogged Grace (which gave me a little break).

Tommy loves to swim

Mommy & Grace hanging pool side

Aunt Linda & Aunt Patty holding Grace

I think Ricky was surprised that some of his family came and he couldn't wait for everyone to sing to him - haha - I think he hated that the most. :)

Tommy directing Uncle Ricky as to which piece he wants

We did have to leave earlier than I wanted due to the fact that Tommy got pink eye!

Happy Birthday Uncle Ricky!!!

Grace's 6 Month Pictures

2011-09-06T21:43:00.000-05:00

On Saturday, Grace and I went in for her 6 month pictures. We did have to wait a while to get in so I was worried about how she would do - especially since she was sleepy - but she did a great job and we got a lot of smiles out of her.

Here are some of my favorites (look at those BLUE eyes):

Kylee's 1st Birthday

2011-08-30T21:20:00.000-05:00

This past weekend, our family traveled to my parent's house to celebrate Kylee's (my niece) 1st birthday. We all got everything ready and the guests started arriving around 4:00.

The Baby Whisperer

Decorating Committee

Grandpa and Grace

Kylee had a lot of fun, especially playing with - or should I say eating - the wrapping paper. I mean really, who cares what is inside the paper!

Look at the cute outfit

Grace loves the jumperoo

Yum! This book is pretty good.

Tommy wanted to play with Kylee's toys

Let's just say that Kylee is a fan of 2 things - eating cake & making a mess while eating cake. She even went so far as to rub it in her hair (thanks Aunt Pam). I know her mom had a lot of fun getting that out - haha!

Pretty Cake

What is this stuff?

It's pretty good!

I wonder how much I can get on me - haha!

Tommy loved the cake too.

Happy 1st birthday Kylee!!

Karaoke King

2011-08-29T21:41:00.000-05:00

Tommy showed off a hidden talent while we were at the beach:

Seagrove Beach 2011

2011-08-23T22:19:00.000-05:00

Two weekends ago, the Rennie Crew started our annual trek to Florida for a family vacation. Since we work some on Friday, we stay overnight somewhere in Louisiana and then arrive in Florida early in the afternoon on Saturday.

The kids did okay on the way up with Tommy watching DVD's and looking around most of the time and Grace looking around and sleeping most of the time.

The kids resting at the Florida Welcome Center

Once we all - Tom's parents and his sister and brother-in-law - we got unpacked and relaxed most of the night.

A few house rules

I was crossing my fingers that this year would be the year Tommy would run around on the beach and build sandcastles, but alas it was not. He is still weary of the sand and would only go on the beach if someone held him, he was sitting in someones lap or he was on a beach towel with absolutely no sand on it (and he wouldn't move one inch on the towel). Other than that he was adventurous - swimming with floaties in the pool and even going in the ocean on the last day.

The only crappy thing about the trip was that Tommy ended up with strep throat. Monday night, he wasn't acting himself and he was extremely hot. Since all the clinics were closed, Tom's mom and I took him first thing on Tuesday morning where we found out the bad news. Once he started taking all the medicine you could tell a difference, but he didn't feel 100% until Friday afternoon.

Grace had a great time on the vacation. She visited with all the family, got in the pool and even went into the ocean on Friday with everyone else. She loved taking everything in and really enjoyed the soothing sounds of the ocean.

The trip was pretty relaxing. Tom and his dad played golf a few times and we even went for a couple of long bike rides.

As usual, the time seemed to fly by and the ride home seemed to take forever. The kids were a little more fussy on the way back so we had to make a couple extra stops - but we managed to drive all the way through without stopping overnight.

Tommy and Daddy

Grace and Aunt Christine

The Cool Dude and Grammy

Look at this cutie-patootie in her swim suit

Tommy hanging out in his pool - by the pool

Tom! I can't believe you are doing that!

Grace can't either - ha!

Tommy's "Cheese" face

Swimming at the beach

Snoozing at the beach

Cutie Pie eating his goldfish

Grace's 5 Month Pictures

2011-08-07T18:57:00.000-05:00

This morning, I took Grace in for her 5 month pictures. She was happy and smiling the entire time, so we managed to get quite a few good ones.

At 5 months Grace:

Just popped out her front 2 bottom teeth (I'll try to get a picture soon)
Pumps out a gallon of drool a day - haha
Talks and laughs all the time
Goes to bed around 9:30 and sleeps until we get her up for school at 7:15
Sits up in her bumbo
Eats rice cereal (and we've tried giving her baby food - the green stuff and she doesn't seem impressed)
Still drinks 4 oz. bottles
Chews on her fingers all the time (thanks teeth)
Rolls halfway and then stops
Loves watching her big brother act like a wild man

Paradise Pond Party

2011-08-07T18:39:00.000-05:00

Last Saturday, Tommy and I headed to Grapevine for Benjamin's 2nd birthday party (I'm friends with his mom Jennifer).

They had the party at Paradise Pond (http://www.fbcgrapevine.com/groups/children/paradise-pond/). There are different play stations for the kids and Tommy only utilized about 3 of them. He kind of hung out and did his own thing - with mommy of course. He played in the cars/truck station, the Step 2 roller coaster thing and the doll house station - haha - don't tell his dad about the last one. He did the funniest thing in the doll station though. They had little doll potties and he put one under his butt and said "I'm going potty."

We took a food break about half way in to the party, but of course Tommy didn't eat anything (not even the cake). He pretty much just drank the juice and then wanted to go play some more.

I didn't take a lot of pictures because I was busy playing with the kiddo.

Car & Truck Section

Roller Coaster Car

Look at the cute "train" sandwiches

Doll section

Grace and the Cursed Ear Infections

2011-08-05T20:09:00.000-05:00

Last Friday at 4:00 in the afternoon, I received a call from the daycare telling me that Grace was running a 101.5 temp. I left work shortly after that to pick her up. Tom and I decided that we would take her to the doctor once I picked her up if she looked bad.

Once I went in to her room I could tell right off that she was sick - she had the red bags under her eyes and she could barely muster up a smile for me (which is rare - she's always smiling). I buckled her into her car seat and then headed across the hall to get Tommy. I called Tom as soon as I got in the car to have him meet me at Acute Care. I actually like going there when the kids are sick, because we've never had more than a 5 minute wait.

When we got back there, they took her temperature again (in the butt) and it was a whopping 102.7! I told the doctor I was concerned that she might have an ear infection, because that was how Tommy's always started. She confirmed my suspicions - Grace had a double ear infection and to top it off - she's teething! We were prescribed 2 medications (amoxicillian and a numbing drop for her ears) and sent on our way.

Poor baby! I seriously hope these are the only ear infections she gets, because I don't want her to have to get tubes like Tommy did. :(

She is chewing on everything right now (and drooling up a storm)

My 31st Birthday

2011-08-01T21:17:00.000-05:00

On Saturday, July 23rd, we met my parents halfway and the took both kids for an overnight visit so Tom and I could go out to celebrate my birthday.

That afternoon, we headed up to Choctaw Casino in Durant, OK for a little gambling. It wasn't a lucky trip for me, but Tom made up for it. Once we got home that evening, we cleaned up and went to downtown McKinney. I love the small town feel of downtown. You walk everywhere and the square is so nice!

Since we wanted to try something new (and I requested Italian) we ate at Sauce on the Square, There was a long wait, but the food (and drinks) more than made up for it. After dinner, Tom and I walked over to Landon Winery and sat outside with our glass of wine people watching. After about 30 minutes of sitting there, being Texas and all, we got too hot and decided to call it a night.

On my actual birthday, Tom got me my own cookie cake - yum!!!

I just wanted to throw in this picture of Grace - look at all that hair - sitting up like a big girl in her bumbo.

I loved my birthday afternoon/evening. Thanks Tom!!

Dallas Aquarium

2011-07-23T12:15:00.000-05:00

Last Saturday after our family photos, we headed downtown to take the kids to the Dallas Aquarium. Tom and I had gone a couple years earlier for a wedding and we thought the kids would enjoy it.

Everyone else must have had the same idea as me because there was a pretty long line to get in. Thank goodness it moved pretty fast because it was HOT outside!

Once we got in, it was still extremely crowded and if anyone knows Tom - he hates crowds and can get pretty grouchy. Luckily, since he knew how much fun Tommy would have, he kept his grumbling to a minimum. :)

Tommy loved looking at all the animals. His favorite were the penguins, flamingos & the sharks. He is on his big boy kick and instead of riding in the stroller most of the time, he wanted to walk by his mommy and daddy. Grace just hung out with daddy in the baby bjorn. She did a great job and loved looking at the animals and watching the people - yes - she's a big people watcher.

Tom and Grace hanging out

Penguins

Tommy looking up at the sharks swimming overhead

Such a big boy!

Flamingos

Family Photos & Grace's 4 Month Pictures

2011-07-16T22:11:00.000-05:00

This morning we went in for our first official family photos with all 4 of us. :)

The session was great, both kids cooperated AND we got quite a few pictures with all 4 of us looking at the camera!

After the family photos, we took Grace's 4 month pictures. She looked cute as always and has the cutest smile.

Tom's Birthday Celebration

2011-07-16T21:54:00.000-05:00

Last Saturday, we hired our first babysitter (we usually use grandparents or our neighbors) to watch Tommy and Grace so we could go out to dinner for Tom's birthday celebration.

We ended up going to Rick's Chophouse (http://www.rickschophouse.com/) in downtown McKinney. We love the downtown area and have been to a couple places down there (winery and Mexican restaurant), but we kept talking about going to Rick's and finally had an excuse to go.

I loved the atmosphere in the restaurant and we had a great waiter. I think we were there close to 2 hours just enjoying the food and wine. Oh, and when I called to make the reservation, they had asked if we were celebrating something special - and when we got there, the manager actually came up to introduce himself to us and gave Tom his choice of dessert on the house. Sweet!

Their famous Pecan Pie - yum!

Grace and Rice Cereal

2011-07-10T10:02:00.001-05:00

Last week, we let Grace try rice cereal for the first time. Even though you can't tell from the pictures, she actually did a good job and managed to get some of it down.

Grace's 4 Month Appointment

2011-07-08T22:35:00.000-05:00

Thank goodness we were able to schedule the appointments for the same time (see post below).

We took Grace in for her 4 month checkup yesterday and the doctor said that she looks good. She has some little pimple things on her chin, but he said that was from all her drooling. She had to get 2 shots and after turning really red (I think she was so mad she couldn't get the scream out fast enough), she settled down pretty fast after her daddy consoled her.

Here are the stats from Grace's appointment:

Weight 15 lb. 1 1/2 oz. (78%)
Height 25 in. (79%)
Head 16 in. (39%)

I was a little surprised about the weight percentage. She isn't a big eater and goes all night without eating. Oh well, at least she is healthy.

Here are a few things that little Gracie is doing at 4 months:

taking her pacy out of her mouth and holding it
reaching out and grabbing things
talking a lot
she's a big smiler
loves taking in everything going on - she's content just sitting in her swing looking around
loves watching me and her daddy exercise - she even participates in the Kenpo workout
drinks 4 oz. of formula per serving (we just switched her from 3 1/2 oz.)
rolled over for the first time yesterday - good job Gracie!

How precious!

Tommy showing his sister some love (she loves her big brother)

Tommy's 2 Year Check-up

2011-07-08T22:26:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, we took Tommy in for his 2 year checkup.

The doctor said he looked great and he's a smart little boy. I could have told him that. Tommy also had to get one shot and he didn't even cry. I did a great job or distracting him with questions while she gave it to him. I was so proud of him!

Here are the stats from the appointment:

Weight 31 lb. 8 oz. (86%)
Height 35 1/2 in. (74%)
Head 17 3/4 in. (84%)

At least my little fellow is proportionate. :)

Dang he's cute!

What a surprise - he's jumping around.

Tommy going to Begas to get beer

2011-07-08T22:13:00.000-05:00

This video I took of Tommy yesterday is so cute. Ever since we got back from Vegas, Tommy has a hankering to go there himself. :)

Fourth of July

2011-07-07T20:21:00.000-05:00

On Monday, we had a few friends over to celebrate July 4th.

Everyone came over around 5:30 to we could hang out on the patio (in the 100 degree temperature), watch the kids play and barbecue.

Grace playing with her toys

Tommy and Charlie sitting at the picnic table

We headed up the street around 8:30 so we could get a good spot (which we did) and settled in to watch the fireworks. This was actually the first year that Tommy was truly interested in them and he kept putting his hands over his mouth from all the excitement and would say "They are so pretty." Grace was also really good during the fireworks. She actually sat still the whole time watching them.

Waiting for the fireworks to start

I love how Tommy has his hands

Happy 4th!

Las Vegas 2011 (Part 2)

2011-07-05T16:35:00.001-05:00

Last Thursday, my parents came (or down I guess) to watch the kids for us so Tom and I could take a trip to Vegas. We planned this trip to celebrate our anniversary and both of our birthdays.

We got to Vegas around 12:45 am and headed straight to our hotel to check in. This trip we tried out Aria Hotel and Casino. It's one of the newer hotels and VERY nice inside. One of the guys I work with had a contact there and we were able to get a corner suite for an amazing price. We actually stayed on the top floor of the hotel and loved our room (except for the temperature - it never got below 78 - yikes!) The room was a little over 900 sq. feet, had 1 1/2 bathrooms and floor to ceiling windows in each room (including the bathroom).

Friday morning (after staying up until 3:30) we got up pretty early and headed down to the pool for a couple of hours. It was nice and hot down there. :) We went back to the room, got cleaned up and then went to the Miracle Mile mall so I could hit up the H&M Store and have lunch. After that, we pretty much walked the strip (and yes - I went to the M&M store) and gambled. We ended up having dinner around 11:00 that night at a restaurant in the hotel.

About to head to the pool

Lunch at The Cheeseburger Stand

Saturday, we got up pretty early again and headed to Mon Ami Gabi (in Paris) for our usual brunch. It was yummy as usual. We gambled a little and headed downtown - which was a mistake - we didn't have much luck at all down there. That night for dinner, I had made reservations for Serendipity 3, mainly so I could get a frozen hot chocolate. I'm not going to lie, the food wasn't that great, but the dessert was! We gambled the rest of the night (mostly at Aria - it's a nice place) and then headed up to bed at a normal time - before midnight - the lack of sleep from the other nights caught up with us.

Brunch at Mon Ami Gabi

Tom playing The Hangover Game

We had a table right on the strip

Look at that Frozen Hot Chocolate

Waiting for the tram

Sunday, we packed up and then went to do a little more gambling before heading to the airport. My dad and Tommy picked us up around 4:30 and then once we got home - visited with my parents for about an hour or so before they left.

Tommy checking my purse to see if I had any money left.

Tommy is 2!

2011-06-26T14:31:00.000-05:00

On Tommy's actual birthday (Wednesday), we took him to McDonald's - he loves their nuggets.

This was also the first time we let him play on the playground they have there. Once we told him he could play, he didn't want to finish his food and kept looking out the window at all the other kids playing.

Someone wasn't ready to leave

He was a little more adventurous than I thought he would be, but I did want to hit those bigger kids that were acting too wild and running into Tommy. :)

Grace was just hanging out

When we got home, we gave him one of his birthday cupcakes and he had an interesting way of eating it - look at the picture below. Haha!

Tommy's 2nd Birthday Party

2011-06-22T23:22:00.000-05:00

On Sunday, we had Tommy's 2nd birthday party at Gymboree. We invited the kids in his class and other friends of ours who have kids the same age. There were about 11 or 12 kids there.

I was a little nervous about how Tommy would do, because he is a little shy in new environments. It took him all of about 5 minutes to get over his shyness and then there was no stopping him.

He had SO MUCH fun running around, participating in all the activities and running around. :) He loved playing with all of his friends and he was so cute when everyone sang "Happy Birthday" to him. He got this little grin on his face and did this shoulder shrug thing. He did manage to blow out his candles (in about 4 tries - with minimal spit), but wanted nothing to do with his cupcake after that. I think he just wanted to get back out there and play.

Still a little hesitant

Someone was having fun :)

Kylee crawling around

All of our helpers - thanks guys!

Tommy finding the lion with the help of his flashlight

He's fearless

Yo Gabba Gabba cupcake cake

Ready to blow out the candles

I'm going to go out on a limb and say Tommy didn't like the clown

Taking a breather

Grace was also there to celebrate Tommy's special day with him. She was a good baby only crying when she was hungry and when we told her she was too small to go down the slide.

Stretching Out

Grace with Uncle Eddie

Grace and Aunt Christine

On the way home, he was still excited about his "birthday party" and loved the little Yo Gabba Gabba bath squirters I gave each kid as a favor along with the other little items in the bag.

Once we got home, Tommy opened all his presents in front of the family and he ended up getting another guitar. Those kids know him so well (he's up to 4 now). He received so many nice things from everyone (so many toys that we hid half of them in our closet until later on).

Tommy with his new sand and water table

He loves his tricycle

Shooting some hoops (notice he made it)

Family photo

The kids with Grandma and Grandpa

The kids with Grammy and Pap-Pap

Grandpa with his grandkids - I don't think they were too happy

Birthday Weekend

2011-06-22T22:42:00.000-05:00

This past weekend Tom's parents, sister and her husband came down for a visit (and to help celebrate Tommy's 2nd birthday).

Gram and Pap-Pap got here Wednesday night and Aunt Christine and Uncle Eddie arrived Thursday afternoon.

On Friday, both kids stayed home from daycare to hang out with our guests and that night we celebrated Uncle Eddie's birthday. I think it's on the 16th, but Eddie keeps insisting it's on the 18th - so I came up with a compromise :) to split the difference with him and celebrate on the 17th.

Tommy loves playing with his little sister

Happy Birthday Eddie!

Tommy's 2 Year Photos

2011-06-19T21:16:00.000-05:00

On Saturday, we went in for Tommy's 2 year photos and some pictures of Tommy and Grace together.

Tommy loved his photographer and was happy and smiling the entire session (and then ran around during Grace's session with Uncle Eddie and Aunt Christine).

Here are some of my favorite:

Grace 3 Month Pictures

2011-06-19T09:33:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, we all took Tommy and Grace in for their pictures.

Both kids did great and we got a lot of smiles out of them. Here are a few of my favorites of Grace:

Grace is 3 Months Old

2011-06-08T19:43:00.000-05:00

On Monday, our baby girl turned 3 months old. It truly seems like we just had her!

Here are some of the highlights:

Grace sleeps through the night - and has for the last month - we put her down around 11:00 and usually have to wake her up around 7:00 to go to daycare (sometimes we do have to run up once a night to put the pacy back in her mouth)
She's moved up to 3 1/2 ounce feedings (4 oz. at night though)
She still has a head full of hair and the longest eyelashes of any baby I've seen
She loves to talk to her mommy and daddy
She smiles all the time (especially loves when Tommy comes to talk to her)
Mostly content to sit and look around for long periods (there are times where she has little fits though)
Doesn't sleep a lot once we get home from daycare - she will take little cat naps

Tommy loves his sister and always asks about her and he says her name so cute "Gace" - the "r" is silent.

I love my little munchkins so much!!!

Soccer at Cowboys Stadium

2011-06-08T19:33:00.000-05:00

This past Sunday, my boss Dale invited the whole Rennie Crew to his suite for the 2 big soccer matches (Cuba vs. Costa Rica and Mexico vs. El Salvador).

We were a little nervous about how the kids would do, but their were other kids in the suite and I'm happy to say that both kids did a really good job.

Grace alternated between sleeping, eating, watching the action on the field and only had a little crying fit towards the end (I think it was all the noise - the last game was crazy).

It was a nail biter.

Tommy on the other hand pretty much ran around the whole time. Thank goodness for an enclosed space. I did manage to get him to sit down and eat some of the yummy mac 'n cheese, popcorn and a little bit of chicken. After that little breather, he was off again. He especially liked flirting with the other girls there. There was one that he sat across from for a little while and he mimicked everything she did - it was hilarious. :) She was good with him and he loved following her and her younger sister around.

Tommy taking a break to eat

The boys watching the game

Tommy giving my boss some pointers

The little ladies man

We did leave around 8:15 (the middle of the 2nd game) because of bedtimes and we wanted to miss the traffic since it was a sold out event.

Chatterbox

2011-06-01T20:59:00.000-05:00

Grace is a little chatterbox and tonight she had some important stuff to tell us. Personally, I think she was telling me how daddy was forcing her to watch the Pirates baseball game and she didn't like it. :)

Look at daddy making me watch baseball....

Pool Time

2011-06-01T20:24:00.000-05:00

On Memorial Day, the four of us ventured out with our friends Matt, Amy and their two girls to The Beach Club (and then on to their community pool) for a little fun in the sun.

Last year when we went to the beach, Tommy wasn't too fond of the sand and we had hoped he grew out of that. Well...not so much. The entire hour we were at the "beach," Tommy would barely get out of his chair.

Look at the cutie patootie!

Wow - he ventured out..

I forgot to mentioned he didn't like the sand on his feet (funny coming from a boy who wipes his hands on his shirt when he is eating - haha)

The girls hanging out

After the beach closed, we headed over to the community pool where we were sure that Tommy would get into the pool. The first 30 minutes, he pretty much just stood by the pool - but thank goodness he FINALLY got in - and let me tell you once he was in - we couldn't get him out.

The boys going back in

I'm going to assume that he just wasn't warmed up to the idea of all the people and the water at first and I bet the next time we go to the beach he is going to run around like a wild man. :)

Grace was good at both places. She pretty much just slept and people watched with her mommy and Amy. She looked so cute with her little beach hat on. I was planning on taking her in the water, but I couldn't find the swim diapers small enough for her (I did only hit up one place though). I'm going to look again this weekend.

Happy (late) Memorial Day!

Friday Night Fun

2011-05-28T10:29:00.000-05:00

Anyone that has 2 small children know that it's a little more difficult to go out to eat at a restaurant. So lately, Tom and I have been staying home with the kids a lot - which is fine by me, because 1 we save money and 2 we get to hang out more with the kids.

Last night was taco night and then we just hung out playing with the kids.

Grace is such a happy baby and smiles anytime anyone talks to her. She especially loves watching Tommy play and gets excited when he hangs out with her.

Charlie's 2nd Birthday

2011-05-28T10:06:00.000-05:00

Last Saturday, the 4 of us went over to Chris and Chuck's house to celebrate Charlie's 2nd birthday.

Tommy had a lot of fun running around and for the first time ever - actually got in the bounce house and jumped around (he's usually scared because of the bigger kids in there). He pretty much wrestled with Charlie and ran around chasing the big balls they had in there.

We did actually manage to get Tommy to take a break for food and cake before he was off again.

Grace was good too. She slept some, hung out with Chuck's mom and watched Tommy and the other kids playing.

Look at the little angel

Grace's First Day of "School"

2011-05-27T22:23:00.001-05:00

On Monday, May 9th my little baby started daycare. I didn't think it would be very hard taking her since I had been leaving her with family the previous 2 weeks (my family the first week and Tom's family the second week), but it was just as hard as it was taking Tommy his first day.

Luckily, Tom went with me to take her - so it wasn't too bad. :(

All ready to go to school..

Grace's Baptism Part 2

2011-05-27T21:03:00.000-05:00

I've been a bad blogger lately and I'm just now getting around to posting pictures from Grace's Baptism Party.

Mommy and Grace

The boys about to get into stuff

Uncle Bob, Aunt Linda and Chris

Tom's mom and Chuck (Charlie's dad)

My mom & the kids Great-Grandma

My dad and Grace

The boy's re-fueling

Tommy helping Grace open her gifts

Grace's Baptism

2011-05-16T20:15:00.000-05:00

Last Sunday, our little baby girl was baptised. Since it was First Communion Sunday we had to do her baptism after the mass with 3 other babies.

I'm not going to lie - it didn't feel as special doing it with a bigger group and since the priest got off to a later start - by the time we got to the actual baptism Grace was ready to eat and she made sure to let us know!

We had to work the feeding into the ceremony, and of course when the little bib was placed over her head - she spit up on it. Poor baby!

Oh well, at least we got through the ceremony. I will say that Tommy had a great time running around the church while all this was going on - thank goodness for lots of babysitters.

Napping

The calm before the storm

Tommy and Charlie resting

Christine taking a turn feeding Grace

Tommy did not want me holding him - but I had to get 1 family photo

Christine and Tim were our stand-in God-parents

Tom's parents

My mom and dad with Tom's parents (look at Grace - haha)

This was the thing that Grace spit up on

After the service, we headed back to our house for a little get together. It was nice catching up with all our family and friends. Thanks for helping us celebrate this special day for Grace.

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-13T22:14:00.001-05:00

This year I celebrated Mother's Day a little early. Tom (I mean the kids ) had flowers sent to my work early in the week (Tuesday) and they were beautiful! I kept them on display until I brought them home on Friday.

Look at this beautiful card I received from Tommy:

Tom also got me an ipod touch (well, it's a birthday/Mother's day/anniversary gift)! I love it and use it everyday.

Thanks for the wonderful Mother's Day - Tom, Tommy and Grace!

Grace's 2 Month Photo's

2011-05-13T22:02:00.000-05:00

Last Saturday, Tom's mom and I took Grace in for her 2 month photos. She did a great job and it was hard narrowing down the choices.

Here are a few of my favorites (and yes - her hair is starting to turn red):

Grace's 2 Month Appointment

2011-05-07T22:13:00.000-05:00

On Thursday, Tom and I took Grace to her 2 month check-up. Once again everything looked great and the doctor said she was perfect.

She did have to get 2 shots, which she didn't like at all and cried (or should I say screamed) for a little bit. Poor baby!

Here are her stats from the visit:

Weight - 11 lbs. 9 1/2 oz. (70%)
Height - 22 3/4 in. (64%)
Head - 15 1/4 in. (50%)

In the last couple weeks she has started smiling and talking to us in that cute baby talk. She also started focusing more on objects, like the butterfly chime toy she has, her swing mobile & the things on her bouncy seat.

Look at that face :)

Week with my parents

2011-05-03T21:27:00.000-05:00

Last week, my dad stayed the whole week (my mom came Wednesday night) to babysit Grace so we could keep her out of daycare a little while longer.

He did pretty good watching her while we were at work and was a big help with Tommy when we got home from work/school. Tommy kept my dad busy with wanting to go outside ALL THE TIME.

Look at this little angel - who wouldn't want to spend time with her

Thanks for being such a great sport dad and for helping him mom. :)

Oh yeah - on Friday I got to leave work early so my dad and I took Tommy to get his hair cut. I think it turned out great and Tommy looks even cuter with the short do (if that's even possible).

Such a cute hair cut

That night, my parents babysat both kids so Tom and I could have a date night. We ended up going to Braza Dancante in Allen. It was fun and we even sat outside to enjoy the nice weather. (http://www.brazadancante.com/).

Easter 2011

2011-04-26T22:15:00.000-05:00

We hosted Easter at our house again and had quite the turnout.

Tommy & Grace woke up to presents from the Easter Bunny and Tommy wasted no time playing with his new Ernie doll (he even took him for a spin on the car).

Tommy's Elmo Basket

Grace's Basket

Tommy and his new friend

Taking Ernie for a spin

We had a lot of yummy food and a few leftovers that we sent home with everyone. We did learn that Tommy is a big fan of ham. :) Tommy must have been worn out from the morning spent with Ernie, because he took a 3 hour nap and had to eat dinner after everyone else was finished.

Tommy with bed head eating cheesecake with Kylee's bib on

Grace wanted some too :)

Tom in the kitchen (I had to document it - ha)

Kylee swinging

Everyone left by 5:00 and then the 4 of us and my dad (who is watching Grace this week - so we can save the daycare costs) sat around relaxing and watching TV the rest of the night - I definitely needed to relax since I went back to work the next day.

Tommy wearing daddy's shoes

The boys relaxing

Week in Pittsburgh

2011-04-24T17:04:00.000-05:00

On Monday afternoon (after tax season was officially over) - the whole family headed to the airport and boarded a plane to Pittsburgh. I'll tell you one thing, it's pretty difficult going through security with 2 kids (okay - it was pretty difficult boarding the plane too). The crappy thing about the plane ride was that they don't left 2 infants sit together so they had to split us up. On the bright side, both kids were good (Grace slept the whole time and Tommy watched The Hangover with daddy).

On Tuesday, we went to visit our friends Chris, Megan, Arden and Miles in Murrysville. Tommy had a lot of fun playing with Arden and Grace just enjoyed watching the other 3 kids playing.

Megan, Arden, Miles, me, Grace & Tommy

Chris, Miles, Tommy & Tom

Arden & Tommy

Wednesday - Tom and I drove around the area and then headed down to The Meadows to do a little gambling. We didn't do so hot - but oh well. That night, we ordered pizza from Tom's 2 favorite places (Jioios & Hotel Loyal). Aunt Eileen came over to visit and Tommy loved playing with her.

Grace & Aunt Eileen

Sleepy Grace

Grammy & Tommy

Thursday we went to Primanti's for lunch and then the girls went shopping (yea - for no sales tax) and then Tom's Gram, Aunt Mary and Uncle Butch came over for a visit.

Grammy Bunny & Tommy Bunny

Pap-Pap & Grace

Daddy & his mini-me

Friday afternoon, we all headed down to the Pittsburgh area and went to Tom's Aunt Cheri's house for pizza and an egg hunt for Tommy. Since it rained most of the week - we had to do the egg hunt in the house. Tommy got quite a few eggs (with help from all the other kids - since he was more interested in the bouncy ball). After we left there, we stopped by to see Tom's Pap-Pap for a while and then everyone except Tom and I went home.

Grace & her egg

The loot

We went over to visit Anthony & Sharon for an adult only night. We stopped to eat at this cute little Italian restaurant and then went over to the stadium only to find out the Pirate game was rained out - so instead we went over to Rivers Casino for a little more gambling. It was a good thing too, because we (Tom) hit the $1 Wheel for $500 - woo-hoo!

The ride back to Dallas went just as well as the ride up. Grace slept most of the time and Tommy even took an hour nap for me. :)

Tommy on the plane

Kenny Chesney Concert

2011-04-23T21:57:00.000-05:00

Last Saturday, my mom and I headed to the stadium for the Kenny Chesney, Zac Brown Band & Billy Currington concert.

We were invited to a suite by my boss. We had a lot of fun eating, drinking and talking to my co-workers.

The concert was great and all the acts were great live. I do wish that they had the big screen on for the whole concert (they had it on for the encore with Kenny and Zac), but that's okay. :)

Me with my mom

Tommy got to hang out with his daddy and Uncle Ricky

He was a little intrigued by Uncle Ricky's beard

Spring Fling 2011

2011-04-18T13:03:00.000-05:00

On Saturday, my dad was able to go with me (Thank Goodness) and the kids to a park in Frisco for Tommy's Spring Fling (hosted by his daycare).

Tommy had a LOT of fun running around (and boy did he run) and even got in a bounce house for a second - and then got scared of the other kids running around and got right back out - haha. He did play some of the little games - football toss, Tic-Tac-Toe toss and went down the slide with my dad.

We had so much fun and glad that the weather was so nice!

Tommy & Grandpa playing in the dirt

Grace was enjoying the outdoors - ha!

The boys taking a break

I tried getting a picture of the baseball we had painted on his face.

Grandpa went down the big slide with Tommy.

Tommy & Charlie's Playdate

2011-04-16T16:51:00.000-05:00

Last Saturday, the four of us headed over to Chris and Chuck's house for dinner and to have the kids play together (Tommy and Charlie - not Grace - haha).

They had a "make your own pizza" night and we brought Tom's famous Oreo Ice Cream pie. Everything was so yummy!

The kids had a lot of fun playing with each other - which pretty much consisted of them chasing each other from one side of the house to the other.

Running around

Tommy waiting patiently waiting for Chris to open a toy

Tommy with his "fire hat" on

The boys and their toys

Tommy's Easter Egg Hunt - 2011

2011-04-10T13:30:00.000-05:00

Yesterday morning, our community had their annual Easter Egg Hunt. Tom took a break from work (I will be so glad when tax season is over) and the 4 of us headed to the festivities.

We took Tommy last year, but he wasn't walking yet so we just sat him in front of an egg, so we were excited to see what he would do this year.

He did great collecting the eggs - in the cute Elmo Easter basket the Easter Bunny dropped off early :). He probably got about 10 eggs and even shared one with Grace at the end. I'm so happy that he doesn't mind sharing (but that will probably change in the future).

Ready for some "huntin"

Hanging with daddy

Eyeing his eggs

Grace "holding" her egg

Tommy doing what he does best - running around

Grace & Tommy

2011-04-09T10:52:00.000-05:00

I thought these 2 pictures of Tommy and Grace were too cute.

Yesterday, I took a picture of Grace's 1st smile - it's close up because I was holding her. :)

This morning, Tommy decided he wanted to eat his waffle in the wagon. He set his plate on the other seat and had his juice in the cup holder.

Grace's One Month Appointment

2011-04-06T18:39:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, Tom and I took Grace in for her 1 month appointment. The doctor said that everything looked good except for the fact that part of her umbilical cord didn't come off so he had to swab her belly button with liquid nitrate (I think that's what it was) to dry it up.

She did get one shot and didn't cry when the needle went in, but screamed for a little bit when the stuff went in her leg. :(

Here are her stats from the appointment:

Weight - 9 lb. 6 1/2 oz. (57%)
Height - 22 in. (77%)
Head - 14 5/8 in. (51%)

Grace's 1 Month Photos

2011-04-04T22:46:00.000-05:00

Today, I took Grace in for her 1 month pictures (I can't believe she's already a month old). She actually did a great job and was very alert.

Here are a few of my favorites:

Weekend with Grandma and Grandpa

2011-03-28T16:01:00.000-05:00

On Friday morning, my dad, Tommy, Grace and I headed to my parents house to spend the weekend with them. That night, my dad fried some fish and then we just hung out around the house. My mom ended up watching Grace that night so I could get some sleep (since I had HUGE bags under my eyes).

Saturday, all my aunts came over to meet Grace and see Tommy. Tommy pretty much stuck to his grandpa all day. They went to get donuts that morning, Lowe's and Tommy even helped him mow the front yard. :)

Tom had to work and didn't make it to my parents house until a little after 5 that afternoon. We hung out with my parents for a while and then headed to Shreveport to do a little gambling (and won money - yea!). We got home around 1:00 and my mom said she would keep Grace again since she doesn't get to see her that much. It was nice getting another night of sleep since it's happened so rarely lately. Thanks mom and dad!

Tommy and I hanging out

Grandma and Grace

Aunt Pam and Uncle Rob visiting

Aunt Patty got to feed her twice

Aunt Linda watching Grace

Tommy played with his cousin, Kylee

Tommy wanted to pick some flowers for me

He brought mommy some flowers

Tommy taking a break

Helping Grandpa mow the yard

Tommy will make a great "tailgater"

I thought this was the cutest picture of Grace (look at those bright blue eyes)

2 Cute Kids

2011-03-28T15:39:00.000-05:00

I took a couple of pictures of the kids last week and wanted to post them since they are so cute. :)

Safety first - Tommy puts his safety glasses on before using tools

Tommy loves taking one shoe off - the little monkey

Grace is deep in thought with her hand resting on her face