Lil Monkey Tales

Liv's First School Pictures

2011-10-23T08:46:00.000-07:00

Three poses were taken and this was the only one that turned out.

Livi's Class Picture!

Of course she's the only frumpy kid in the picture. I guess her face tells all.

(Bottom row from left to right: Alex, Livi, and Brayden)

(Middle row from left to right: Tatiana, Zoey, Sydney, and Kyndal)

(Top row from left to right: Ms. Mandi, Jacob, Makale, Jayce, Tristan and Ms. Taylor)

Chuckie Cheese

2011-09-18T06:41:00.001-07:00

When Liv first started preschool, she had a hard time adjusting. So her teacher recommended that I start a sticker chart and see if that would help her adjust faster.

The deal was she had to collect all of her stickers for the week. If she did at the end of the week she could get a prize. Since she collected all of her stickers that week she asked to go to Chuck E. Cheese.

Earlier that week we went to Colleens house for Rosie's birthday party. During the party, Colleen told me that Rosie is having a hard time adjusting to 1st grade. So I made Rosie a deal. If she didn't give her mom a hard time the rest of the week, we wouuld take Rosie with Liv to Chuck E. Cheese.

Both girls did a great job that week so we went. I was able to get the girls to stop for one minute to get a picture. Phew!

Livi's 1st week at Pre-School

2011-08-16T18:26:00.001-07:00

Liv's 1st Day!

Liv's very 1st picture in school!

When I picked her up she said that she had to go potty and drug me to the bathroom. She wanted to show me that they had toilets that were just her size and sinks that she didn't need a step stool to wash her hands. It was really cute.

Liv's 2nd Day!

So one Liv's 2nd day it was Pajama Day, Bring your Favorite Stuffed Animal.

I asked Liv which of her friends she wanted to bring. Livi asked if she could bring "Teddy" So she wore her monkey PJ's and took Teddy to school with her. Oh and Teddy came from Hershey Park when we with with Uncle Kenny, Aunt Heather and Brandon.

Liv's 3rd Day!

Crazy Hat Day, Water Day!

Wednesday, Liv was told that she needed to wear a crazy hat to school and her bathing suit under her clothes for water day. I'm not exactly sure what they did for water day but I think I heard that they were going out back and playing in a sprinkler.

Livi's 4th Day!

Family Picnic

The night before we went to Grandma and Pops for a visit. On the way home Liv started to say that she didn't like school and miss Colleen and Rosie. I told her that I missed them too and would check to see if Colleen and Rosie would be able to hang out for a little while over the weekend. Her response...but I want to see them now. YIKES!

So, needless to say Liv's 4th day didn't get off to a good start. When I wake her up Thursday monring, (I allow her 10 minutes to watch TV before having to get up and get dressed). So when her 10 minutes were up, I told her that it was time to get up and get dressed. She said "But I want to watch TV". I told her she could continue to watch her show but still needed to get dressed. So after a little hesitation she got up and dressed herself. Then I told her that I needed to brush her hair, that's when it all started. "I dont want you to brush my hair, I want to watch TV" So again, I told her that she could continue to watch TV but I still needed to brush her hair. After she was dressed and hair was brushed it was time to leave. That's when it all went down. She cryed all of the way to school saying that "I dont want to go to school, I want to stay home and watch TV". When we arrived at school, I still had to take a picture of her (as mean as that sounds, I wanted to capture all of the memories, not to mention, you would be able to read this if I didn't). So we walked inside and as I was trying to leave, she wouldn't let go of me. So I decided to stay a few extra minutes and see if I could get her engaged with another kid at school. I introduced her to a girl named Sara (who was probably 5 or 6) and Liv wanted nothing to do with her. Then a little boy "Braden" came in who is in her class he brought in car to play with . Liv knew him so I asked her if she wanted to play with him. His Mom "Jackie" (who also works there) asked him if he would share his cars with Liv. He said "Sure". So I started playing cars with Braden and tried to get Liv interested. Yeah...didn't work. So needless to say, I asked for a hug and she wouldn't let me go. After one of the daycare ladies got her off of me, I left and started to cry. That was HARD! Later that day was "Family Picnic Day". So Tim and I both got there (a little later then expected due to a bad thunderstorm) but we still got there. We met a few of Liv's classmates and had some fruit and brownies and left. Phew! What a day!

Liv's 5th Day!

Center closes at 1:00

Ok, so in the picture it looks like she was good to go. Yeah, not really. She was fine up until I asked for a hug. Then all hell broke loose. So wrapped her arms around me and then the director Pat pealed her off of me, I walked out. But before walking out I heard her screaming almost at the top of her lungs and in the corner of my eye, I saw her kicking. I cired so hard after walking out of there. I swear, that day was the hardest day yet. I'm hoping it gets better next week but only time will tell. When I picked her up at 1:00, she seemed to be having fun. I did end up calling the school and asking how long she cried for. Jackie said for about 10 minutes. (PHEW! It's not easy being a mommy sometimes)

Livi's 1st week of Pre-School!

Livi's Last Day at Little Puffin Daycare (Colleen's)

2011-08-15T14:11:00.001-07:00

So a few weeks ago, I found out that Colleen was trying to sell her house. Believe it or not she was able to sell her house within about 2 or 3 weeks. I've been thinking about sending her to Preschool but I was trying to figure out how she could attend preschool and still stay with Colleen. I kept asking Liv is she would rather go to Colleen's or go to schoool. She would always say that she wanted to go to school. So, since Colleen sold her house and the buyer asked for a fast settlement, I decided to enroll Liv into preschool full time.

So Liv's last day with Little Puffin Daycare (Colleen) was on Friday, 12 August 2011. Throughout the week, I kept reminding Liv that this was her last week. So on Friday when I came to pick her up (and of course I was crying) I told Liv to say her Goodbyes. She hugged and kissed all the kids.

This is Colleen and Rosie (aka Rowie what Livi used to call her) Liv's 1st Best Friend

When Liv and I got home, I opened her bag of clothes (Like I've done every Friday) and there was a letter to Liv.

Of course, I was crying when I read this. There is only one Colleen! But Liv will still see them and get to play with Rosie!

2011 Glen Burnie Carnival

2011-08-10T19:03:00.001-07:00

2011 Glen Burnie Carnival

On our way to the carnival!
Livi won her blue fish

And her bat

Livi wanted to go on the swing ride but she was too small to go by herself. So Daddy went on with her. And while they were waiting for the ride to start, Tim couldn't help himself. He started making Aunt Heather and Brandon swinging.
Liv sat like this pretty much the entire ride.

Did I mention that Brandon didn't want to go on this ride so he wasn't very happy

Liv and Brandon wanted to go in the play area but she was too small to go in this by herself too. So Daddy went in with her. Shoeless and all
One reason why Liv wasn't allowed to go by herslef. She got stuck in the ball pit.

Weeeee.....

The kids waiting in line to go back in the play area

Waiting for the ride to start.

One of my favorite pictures from the night

And my other favorite pircture from the night

I have to admit...I had a BLAST going down this slide. Liv and I ended up going down it twice. I wanted to go again but we had to leave. We had no more tickets and it was getting late. But boy did it bring back memories from when I was a kid. Oh and did I mention on the last hump of the slide we got air!
Liv and I racing Uncle Kenny and Brandon. They won!
Livi won two more gold fish from the carnival. She had two from the previous year and now added two more. So I went out and bought a bigger fish tank so the fish could have a bigger home. So Livi tried to help me catch them.

Liv's 1st Swimming Lessons

2011-07-13T17:26:00.000-07:00

Liv's 1st Swimming Lesson (July 2, 2011)

I have to admit...I was a little worried that Liv wouldn't get in the pool without me there. Well, as you should know, that wasnt a problem at all. Liv did AMAZING! I couldn't believe how awesome she did. And I was worried? Really?

There are six kids in Liv's class. The teacher takes one kid around the pool while the others sit on the steps and wait for their turn.

Liv learning how to kick

Livi putting her kicking to use

The teacher told Liv to act like she was a StarFish. She said that starfish have five points and so do we. Our heads, arms/hands, and legs/feet. So once the teach showed the kids what to do...

Liv had NO PROBLEM doing it. My little StarFish!

The last lesson for that day was to learn how to do the "crabwalk". That's when you are walking along the side of the pool using your hands and feet to walk the ledge of the pool.

These classes are 8 weeks. As long as she can do what the instructors ask before the last class then she will be ready to move on. If she doesn't then I will sign her back up for the same class that she is in now until she is comfortable and ready to move up.

Flower Girl

2011-07-10T15:42:00.003-07:00

Zach & Ani Armiger's Wedding (Liv's the flower girl)

So Liv was asked last summer (2010) if she wanted to be the flower girl. So throughout the year, I started talking to Liv about being a flower girl and how she will have to walk down the isle all by herself and throw flowers.

So the day of the wedding, Tim took Liv to her swim class and when they got home, we got ready to leave. The wedding was in Washington, DC so we had a drive to make.

By the time we got to Ani's parents house everyone was ready except Liv (whops!). So I was able to get her dress and the hair dresser fixed her hair.

The Wiskman Family
Livi being her!
So, right before Zach and Ani walked down the isle was when Liv was supposed to go. HOWEVER, she decided to stumble and smacked her head on edge of the wall. Grammy and Pop said that they hear this thud and about 3 seconds later heard Liv scream cry. Needless to say Liv didn't walk down the isle. I was bummed but what could I do right?
So after I got Liv to calm down I was able to go back into the church with her. We made it up to the front and durning the wedding I asked Liv if she wanted to still throw her flowers. She said she did. So I told her that when I tell her to go, run out in front of Uncle Zach and Aunt Ani and start throwing flowers. She did an AWESOME job! Mommy and Daddy were very proud of her and everone loved what she did and was either smiling or laughing.
This is Liv coming out of the phew
She ran up to Uncle Zach and Aunt Ani and did her job
If you look close enough you see my hand in the top right of the picture trying to tell Liv that she needs to turn around and go the other way.
Apparently she didn't hear me so you see me trying to tell her again and Uncle Zach telling her too.
Mr. & Mrs. Zach Armiger

This is one of my favorite pictures.

Livi had no problem making friends

I LOVE this picture! This picture reminds me of a cute calendar picture. All friends sitting on the bench.

So Tim and I tried to get Liv to eat the dinner that was served. If you know Liv she was not at all interested. Tim said that he was able to get her to try it but she said that she didn't like it. So needless to say she ate Fruit Loops for her dinner. Livi loves cereal!!!

Zach and Ani's reception was at the Sugarloaf Mansion. B-E-A-UTIFUL!!!!!!

About 10:00pm, we decided it was time to leave. Liv had been up since 7:00am and was going non-stop all day. She had a few cat naps but was not enough. When we were leaving the reception this is what it looked liked. Breath Taking to say the least!

4th of July

2011-07-10T15:42:00.001-07:00

I asked Liv if she wanted to see fireworks. Since the 4th was on a Monday this year, I didn't want to go out on the 4th since Tim and I had to go to work the next day. So I sent our friend Mark a message asking him if he wanted to take us out on his boat and see some fireworks. Orginally, Tim was trying to get our boat out but he ran out of time, so I called in a favor with Mark.

Capt. Mark

Livi wanted to sit with Capt. Mark

Watching the sunset (waiting for the fireworks)

Durning the fireworks Livi said "Mommy, I wish I could go fishing someday" so Mark gave Liv a rod and she started fishing! She loved it!

Hershey Park

2011-06-26T16:40:00.001-07:00

Aunt Heather invited us to join Uncle Kenny, Aunt Heather and Brandon at Hershey Park on Sunday. We've never been there so we were really excited to go. Unfortunately, Tim wasn't able to join us due to a back injection. But Liv and I still went for some fun in the sun! At the park, you can measure your child to see what rides they are allowed to ride. Liv was a Hershey Kiss!
We stopped to take a quick family picture.

Livi with the Hershey bar
Getting ready to ride the train
Liv and Brandon had fun riding this ride. The only problem was...

the dinosours head moved back and forth but there was only one handle to operate this. Neither one of them wanted to share. So there was a little attitude from both of them but afterwards they had fun!

When we come home and Tim looked at all of the pictures that were taken, the first thing he said was...

"Motorcycle Mama"

Sorry about this picture being so bright, but it was the only one that I had of them flying the helicopter up in the air

As Brandon and Liv were going around on this ride, Brandon kept saying that we would'nt be able to get their picture. Guess what??? I DID!

This is one of my favorites! This was the first time that Liv rode a ride and waved without me waving first! She seemed to really like this ride. Everytime she would fly by she would say...

"I Mommy"

Uncle Kenny, Brandon, Aunt Heather and Liv getting ready to go down.

SPLASH!

haha...they got all wet!

Look at Brandon's face. He was soooo not happy that he got wet. After they got off of the ride Heather told me that Uncle Kenny was not expecting them to get as wet as they did. Brandon was WET! Uncle Kenny wasn't as bad and the girls...a few little drops.

Next, the water park. And Boy was that water COLD! And the weather wasn't as warm as we wanted it to be to go swimming. But Liv didn't care.

Liv and Brandon had so much fun going down this water slide.

Look...B has BLUE LIPS! But he doesn't seem to mind!

Ok, he decided to get out to get warm.

After we finished swimming, we went shopping. Liv ended up buying a few things. One is the hershey bar pillow that B is hold (and he got one too) and the other is a little teddy bear that Liv is holding. She named him "Teddy"

All in all, the kids seemed to have a blast. I think the part that Liv loved the most was the water park. But those of you who know Liv...she LOVES the water! So, I'm sure you are not surprised!

Our 1st Family Berry Pickin Adventure

2011-06-18T14:08:00.000-07:00

I wanted to take Liv berry picking somewhere. After asking around, Aunt Heather and Uncle Kenny said that we should go to this farm on the eastern shore. It only took a little over an hour to get there and while waiting for Tim to meet up with us (since he was working in Dover) we came across this puppy.

Livi LOVED this puppy!

She kept sticking her fingers in the cage and he was kissing them. She kept saying "Mommy she likes me".

Stopped picking for a quick family picture

Livi and Daddy picking raspberries

Livi had a blast. She did a great job picking all on her own.

Next, we went to pick blueberries

Liv did a great job at picking these too. Once, we explained that the blueberries had to either look blueish or purpleish...she didnt want to stop.

And on the way home we even got to see a real "Mater" (from the movie cars)!

Happy Easter!

2011-04-24T04:49:00.001-07:00

Happy Easter!!!

Livi's Easter Basket from the Easter Bunny

Livi got up at the butt-crack of dawn and couldn't wait to go through her basket

Liv started her Easter Egg hunt the the Easter Bunny surprised her with

Finding more Eggs

Points to one that she sees but cant reach

Gotta love that silly face!

The Easter Bunny brought Brandon and Liv a croquet set. So after breakfast we all went outside and tought the kids how to play.

Daddy and Livi sitting outside watching the Easter Day Thunderstorm approching. (I dont know why but this picture reminds me of Forest Gump when Forest and his son Little Forest are both watching TV together)

Easter Bunny

2011-04-10T18:35:00.001-07:00

Yesterday, Liv went to visit the Easter Bunny. She LOVED the bunny. Her cousin Brandon on the other hand...not so much.

Livi asked that the Easter Bunny bring her lots of candy.

Brandon and Livi with the Easter Bunny

Livi's 3rd Birthday and Party

2011-03-31T19:30:00.000-07:00

Happy 3rd Birthday Livi!

Livi's 1st Birthday!

Livi's 2nd Birthday Livi's 3rd Birthday

I started asking Liv where she wanted her birthday party back in January. I gave her three options. 1, at a bouncing place 2, bowling and 3, Rolly Pollies. Liv without hesitation...ROLLY POLLIES!

A quick Family shot!

Needless to say that's where her 3rd birthday party was. As soon as we walked in Liv ran in, took her shoes off and started palying while Tim and I were carring her party stuff in.

The first thing Liv ran for...

Liv was so excited to see Rosie

Livi climbing the rock wall

The foam pit (and believe me...it's a workout!)

Brayden playing in the foam pit

Brandon climbing in the donut with the foam blocks

The Zip Line (with Ms. Shannon helping)

All of the kids after playing

Signing "Happy Birthday" while Liv blows out her candels

This is what Livi looked like after all the kids left and we were cleaning up. Needless to say...she, well let me rephrase...WE (haha) took a nap!

After we got got up from our nap, Liv opened up all of her presents. It looks like Christmas!

We all had a fun time at Liv's birthday party. I cant wait to see what next year brings!

Toybox

2011-03-28T07:41:00.000-07:00

So, the other day Tim and I received the message below from Colleen (Liv's Daycare) "While I was making sandwiches Olivia went downstairs to play. A few minutes later I went to get her for lunch, and found her sitting over the toy box, peeing in it! Well, I told her that she could never go potty anywhere except the bathroom and she had to sit in time out for 2 minutes. I think I scared her (although I did not, nor do I ever, yell) because she knew better and she was cought. I explained that the toys would be dirty with germs and the bathroom was the only place where germs could get flushed away. She got VERY upset to the point where I had to hold her on my lap and tell her she is such a good girl but just did a naughty thing. She was crying pretty hard - I guess because I can count on one hand the number of times she's gotten in trouble here. She always behaves for me and this was really just odd. No one was in the bathroom and there was really no reason for it except her pants were a little wet, so probably felt it was an emergency. I told her next time to just yell for me and I'll run her to the bathroom. She is fine now, and did eventually eat her lunch. I told her I would not tell Jimmy or anyone why she was in time out because when Jimmy asked her she said she was not going to talk about it. I just wanted to let you know because she was so upset and wanted her Mommy and Daddy to come and take her home. Like I said, she's fine now and playing. The whole thing just about broke my heart - she's so hard to discipline because she really wants to be a good girl and getting in trouble is so upsetting to her. I hope you know I am very careful not to hurt her feelings, and tell her all the time what a good girl she is. Okay - on with the day!" This was an email that I was not ready to get. I didn't know if I shoudl laugh or yell at her when I picked her up. Ahhh....the memories that this little monkey is creating for us!

Christmas 2010

2011-03-15T17:55:00.000-07:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!

Livi asked Santa for Baby All Gone and Playdoh. Boy, dont you wish that life always stayed that simple? I know I do.

So Christmas morning came and what do you know...SANTA STOPPED AT OUR HOUSE and there were so many presents were underneath the tree.

Mom-Mom and Grandpa were the first ones to stop by. They were walking in as Liv was walking down the steps. Perfect Timing!

So, Grandpa, Mom-Mom, Daddy and myself sat down to watch Liv open her presents from Santa. Santa Came!

(and yes, all of these presents are for Livi she must have been a really good girl!)

More pictures to come...lost the SD card. So when it pops up, I will finish posting our 2010 Christmas pictures.

Our First Family Vacation

2011-02-13T05:33:00.000-08:00

We were invited to go to join Grammy and Pop in Cancun, Mexico for an early Christmas vacation. We left on Friday, December 17th and returned on Thursday, December 23rd.

Weeks before leaving, I was talking to Liv telling her that we were going to be going to Mexico and when we get on the plane we have to sit in our seats. We are not aloud to get up and walk around anytime we want to. And throughout the weeks of talking to her she would get excited and say that she wanted to go to “Mexdaco” now.

So finally December 17th came and....

Livi and Daddy at the airport eating breakfast

it was time to get on the plane. Liv did awesome. The flight was about 4 hours and she started to cry at the last 15 minutes (pretty much when the decent happened). And of course there was no nap on the plane so she was exhausted.

We got off the plane, got through customs and head to our SUV waiting for us. In the mean time, Liv passed out in her stroller. After sleeping for about 30-45 minutes, she was ready to go.

Our Resort

Part of the pool!

Livi eating chocolate covered marshmallows

And After...

Unfortunately, the next day she felt differently. She woke up and said “I wanna go home!” And that was the start of our vacation (sigh).

The first morning we woke up at 7:00-8:00AM and then headed to breakfast. Durning breakfast Livi told us that she wanted to go home. We told her that there is so much to do. Lets eat breakfast, get our "Babysuits" on and head to the pool.

The Kids Pool

Liv only played in the pool for about an hour or so. It was pretty cold and I would think that most kids dont mind and typically Liv doesnt either but.... I think she was getting home sick. So after about two hours after breakfast we would head back up to the room. Unfortunately, this is where we spent most of our vacation.

Granted Liv did take naps EVERYDAY!

So either Tim or I would take her up to the room while the other one stayed behind to try to enjoy some of our vacation (outside of the room). I have to admit...most of the time I would take her up because I would lay down with her and sleep for the few hours that she did. On this vacation, I was NEVER tired! Which was nice for a change.

Here are a few pictures of when we all did escape the room...

Livi burring her feet!

Look we are a dragon!

And now a mermaid

And when we would go back up to the room and after nap, Liv wanted to play in the tub.

Liv LOVED the HUGE tub that was in our room

Daddy even got in a played and showed Liv how you can make A LOT of bubbles!

For some reason, Liv LOVED riding on the escalator. This was one of the few things that Liv really seemed to enjoy while on vacation.

Daddy and Liv going up

Daddy and Liv coming back down (look at her smile)

On the last day we decided to go parasailing.

Leaving the dock

Ready? Here we go.....

Livi said during this part "look we are flying with the birds"

And coming back down

Granted, Liv cried more then she did smile. Even through the homesick tears, calls home to grandma (trying to make Livi happy) and the throwing up all over Mommy and herself, we somehow make this vacation memoriable.

It may not have been the best vacation that we have taken. But it was our FIRST family vacation and with memories that will last a lifetime! Now after a few months back we are able to laugh (well about most of it:o)).

No Spanking...

2010-11-21T19:13:00.000-08:00

So tonight, Liv was being quite tempermental when it came time to get dressed for bed. Daddy told her after several mini-struggles that she was going to get her butt spanked if she did not stop fighting (literally fighting- kicking, and screaming!). Daddy picker her up, and gave her a little rap on the rump. She cried, while being dressed and then ran off to find Mommy to tell her all about the travesty she had just endured... only to come back downstairs moments later saying "Daddy, dont smack me on the heinie anymore". Daddy explained to her that it was important that she listen to Mommy and Daddy, and that she can avoid such things in the future by being cooperative. She repeated her plea by saying "Daddy- I'm little. Dont spank me anymore... I'm just a baby". Delivered so perfectly, Daddy felt as though Mommy told her to say it! They really grow fast!!

Bitter Sweet!!!

2010-11-17T18:49:00.000-08:00

Livi's BIG Girl Bed

For the past few weeks, Liv has opted to sleep on the floor rather then in her toddler bed. After learning that she's been sleeping in a big bed for the past couple of weeks at daycare, I figured that's why she didn't want to sleep in her toddler bed anymore.

Tim and I put her big girl bed together and when I called her up to look at her new bed...she walks around it and says "I love my new bed". She then went and collected some her stuffed animals and said that they needed to sleep with her. After she finished picking out the animals she wanted to sleep with she then climbs into bed and says "Good Night"

She didn't ask me to hold her or even sing her song to her. After I asked her if she wanted me to sing her song to her she says "will you sing me my special story?" So after asking if I could sing her song to her. She asked for Twinkle Twinkle Little Star.

Good Night Big Girl!

Halloween 2010

2010-11-13T05:04:00.000-08:00

Happy Halloween!!!

Halloween was so much fun this year. Livi proved to Mom and Dad that she's a big girl and doesnt need help going up to the houses and saying "Trick-or-Treat" and "Thank you". It was a happy but said moment.

Livi showing us that she doesnt need any help

Again, Livi is showing us how big she really is.

Livi stopped Trick-or-Treating for eggcorns

Livi is telling us that her pumpkin is too heavy

Cant wait for the next house.

At the end of the night, Liv sits outside with us and helps us hand out candy.

Livi Playing dress up

2010-11-11T18:47:00.000-08:00

So I went to David's Bridal to look for a Christmas Party dress. I found one and asked Tim to come look at it. When we got there, Liv said that she wanted to wear a dress.

Over the summer she was asked to be a flower girl in Zach and Ani's wedding. So I thought it wouldnt hurt to see how she liked it.

Soooo cute. I will apologize for the quality of the pictures as they were taken with a camera phone. But you get the gist of it...

Livi cant wait to get to the dressing room to try on a dress

Livi showing us how she can twrill in her dress

Here's Livi saying "Cheese"

Here's the second dress. Which I must say, I think we all like it the best.

Livi is showing us that she loves to poof of the dress.

This picture is just priceless! She looks like one of those little snow babies

Liv's 1st Overnight in Ocean City

2010-11-11T18:28:00.001-08:00

So we decided to take an overnight trip to ocean city in early September. We figured since she had so much fun when she spent the day with Grammy and Pop back in August we would make an overnight trip.

Liv and I drove up and Daddy met us there a little later. When we got there, Liv couldnt wait to go to the beach. She didnt even want to wait for Daddy to get there.

Can't wait to head to the beach!

Livi building her sandcastle

The Turtle!

The Starfish!

"Silly Face" (I love this picture)

Even after going to bed at Midnight, Liv was still able to enjoy the rides that they have.

Daddy and Livi on the hot air balloon ride

Daddy and Livi watching the waves come

No Nap!

2010-09-23T10:37:00.001-07:00

So today while at work. I received an email from Colleen (Liv's daycare provider). This is what she wrote me...

"Olivia just told me that you said she's doesnt have to have a nap anymore. I cracked up. She said "No nap! My Mommy says so." "

Of course, I responded. I said "Haha..that’s great! Ok, just to clarify…Mommy never said that. Haha. Liv still needs her nap ;o)"

Ahhh...they start so young these days. I didnt think the lying started until they were a little older.

Liv's 1st trip to Ocean City

2010-09-07T19:10:00.001-07:00

Grammy and Pop were on vacation in Ocean City the other week (August 24, 2010). While they were on vacation, they called and asked if they could take Liv for the day.

Since Tim is working in Dover, DE we thought that would be awesome. Liv would be able to spend some time with her grandparents and get to enjoy a day at the beach too.

So Tim and Liv headed out at 4 in the morning and headed to meet up with Grammy and Pop. Tim said that Liv was awake most of the trip there. What are you surprised?

Livi and Pop enjoying a walk on the beach

OK, so Livi is done with her walk...

Liv was scared of the ocean at first...Grammy to the rescue!

She got over her fear pretty quick!

A little time to play in the sand...

After getting up at 4AM she finally crashed around 4PM. Yes, Liv does sleep every once in a while...

Sesame Place!!!

2010-08-09T18:24:00.000-07:00

I heard about Sesame Place from a TV show that I used to watch. Ever since then, I've wanted to take Liv there, exspecially after her 1st carnival. Tim and I finally took her there this past weekend.

We left on Friday afternoon, after a long car ride (around 4 hours. Yikes! GPS problems, Traffic one stop and going to the wrong hotel (whops!)) we finally checked into the (right) hotel, unloaded the car and headed to Sesame Place. It's a theme park made just for kids 7 and under.

We were only able to spend a few hours at the park the first day but Liv seemed to really enjoy the rides that she got on. Daddy and Livi got on the flying fish, then the tea cups and played a few games and had Liv do a painting with her hand print (which they turned into a monkey).

Livi playing one of her games. She won a stuffed animal.

Livi and Daddy on da flying fish

Livi making her handprint for her groth chart with the monkey

Daddy and Livi in the teacups

We left for dinner, which the town that we stayed in (Ewing, NJ) had NOTHING to do after 8:00. So we found an open Papa Johns, bought a few cookies (while waiting for the pizzas) and then headed back to the hotel. We ate our dinner (and cookies)outside on the patio while enjoying the breeze and stars and then Livi wanted to go swimming. So we got her "babysuit" on and Daddy and Liv went swimming. Of course, I watched and took many pictures!

Livi showing Mommy and Daddy that she has no fear of the water!

Liv showed Mommy and Daddy how she can jump in the pool all by herself. Of couse, Tim was there to catch her, well some what. She would jump in and Tim was there to get he when she came up.

Finally at 10 after 10, I had to drag her out of the pool. TIME FOR BED!

Saturday, for some reason, me of all people couldnt sleep. Probably from Liv sleeping next to me (Yes, she woke me up at 2AM). So I got up, had an enjoyable cup of coffee in the lobby, watched a little TV, then headed to the gym.

Finally, at 9:00AM, I told Tim that we had to wake Liv up if we were going to go to the park. We ate breakfast, packed our bags, checked out of the hotel and headed back to Sesame Place. We took pictures with Elmo, Abby and Big Bird! Then, Livi enjoyed a few more rides with Daddy. Mommy took her to the water park a few times, then we headed for home. PHEW! What a day!

Yes, Livi was scared of Big Bird!

And she was even scared of Elmo. But we somehow got a really cute picture!

Liv's 1st Carnival

2010-08-09T17:31:00.000-07:00

So, last weekend (31 July) Kenny, Heather and Brandon invited us to go to the Glen Burnie carnival with them. This was Liv's 1st carnival. We played throw the ball and win a fish game (we now have two fish), then we played throw the ball in the clowns mouth (we have two pool animals) and we played pick a duck out of the water, which Liv got a dinosaur.

Then she tried the rides. WOW! She had a blast. She would get off of one and ask to either get on the same one or the one next to the one that she just rode.

What was really cute was watching Daddy having to ride with Liv and Brandon because Liv was too small to ride alone.

The kids can't stand the anticipation, their waiting for their turn on the car ride.

Daddy and Livi on the merry go round

Daddy, Livi and Brandon on the Helicopter ride.

What was really funny was watching the helicopter try to get up in the air. Tim said that while they were riding, he kept hearing a clicking sound as the helicopter was trying to get up.

It did make it up there!

Here's Liv winning her dinosour!

How cute are these kids? Holding their tickets waiting to go on the next ride.

Brandon and Liv driving the yellow car. That's Brandon's favorite color!

Did you know that Brandon can make a dinosaur fly? They loved it!

Today at Daycare!

2010-07-09T20:35:00.001-07:00

So, Colleen sent me an email and said the following...

"At the pool today, Olivia was entranced watching the kids jump off the diving board, and when I asked her what she was doing, she said "I watching Gavin and Rosie on the bouncy bridge". What a great name for a diving board. She's too cute!"

I would have to agree. Even tonight when I was tucking her in, she looks at me and says "I wuve my mommy".

Happy 4th of July!

2010-07-08T15:24:00.001-07:00

We decided to take Liv to see fireworks for the first time. So we went up to see Grammy and Pop for a while and then headed to Oregon Ridge Park to see the fireworks.

Before we left to go to the park, we took Nick and Roxy (Grammy and Pop's dogs) for a walk. We went to the play ground for Liv to play for a few minutes. When we left we told her that we were going to leave and see the fireworks. She said "I wanna see fa-wa-works!" (so cute!). However, we decided to go to a near by field instead. But we could still hear the orchestra that was playing at the park.

As the fireworks (aka Fa-Wa-Works) were bursting in the sky, you heard Liv calling out the colors! She seemed to really enjoy them...well when she was watching them...haha.

After the fireworks were over, Daddy took a quick picture of Liv, Mommy, Grammy and Pop!

A day at the beach

2010-06-22T15:43:00.000-07:00

While Tim was home last weekend, we thought it would be fun to go to the beach. So we packed lunch and lots of sunblock and took a trip to a community beach.

Liv was so excited. When I told her that we were going to go to the beach but we had to get our bathingsuit on before we left. She got so excited and said "I need my babysuit". So we got her "babysuit" on and put on the sunblock and off we went.

Liv's version of swimming is throwing herself into the water, flopping down on her belly and doing the army crawl. She says "look I swimming".

The only way we could get her to leave the park was to tell her that we were going to get ice cream. And even after telling her that...she still wanted to stay and swing. Ahhh...

Livi did it!!!

2010-05-25T18:01:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, Livi poopied in the potty! I could not believe it. We were getting ready to leave to go to my mom's for dinner. I asked Liv if she was ready and she said "I poopie". I looked at her and said "Do you want to poopie on the potty?" Liv said "K" and ran to the bathroom.

Liv got to the potty and said I do it, as I was putting the seat down. So after she put her seat down, she sat down and you heard her grunt twice. She said "its hard". I said "I know baby just keep pushing". Next thing you know you hear PLOP!

I looked at Liv and said "Oh my god Liv, YOU DID IT! You just poopied on the potty!" This is going to sound horrible but I almost cried. I was so excited, my eyes started filling up. So I told her to get down off the potty and look. So I picked her up and she looked and said "I did it!". She was so proud of herself, as she should be. Then I wiped her little butt (and it's so cute, I might add) and waved bye-bye to the poopie.

Let the potty training begin!

Mother's Day!

2010-05-10T18:17:00.000-07:00

A day at the Zoo!

Kari invited Liv and I to join her and Braden to go to the "Maryland Zoo in Baltimore". You know, I seem to remember the zoo being called "Baltimore Zoo". What happened to the name? Anyway, we had a blast! Oh, and did I mention that this was Liv's first visit at the zoo?

When you first walk into the zoo, there is a huge Lion. I was like a kid again. I havent been at the zoo since I was probably ten. So this was a first for me all over again.

How cute are the Prairie dogs?

We got to watch the Polar bear play with his ball

I have no idea how old this turtle is but he is HUGE!

Liv was supposed to feed the Giraffe once but we ended up feeding him twice. The first time Liv was holding his food. When he reached his head in and his tounge came out, Liv dropped his food and pulled her hand back and there was no picture. So we ended up feeding the Giraffe again. This was totally cool and would love to do that again. They are so gentle and adorable!

Liv and I got to ride a Camel. Now that was an experience. When I first got on, I was expecting it to feel like a horse saddle. Wrong! It was kinda soft and squishy then it was hard. Weird! And talk about a bumpy ride. Liv in the one picture where her mouth is open shouted "Yea Haw". I have no idea where she got that but never the less, it was funny.

"Family Matters"

"We see herd. Elephants see family. Females stay in tight-knit groups, raising their young together and deferring to the most experience amoung them the matriarch. As males mature, they follow a different path"

I thought this was cool. As we were walking to see the elephants, we passed that sign. Next thing I know, we see Mommy Elephant and her baby.

And of course there were Monkeys.

Liv went for a ride on a flying banana peel. At first I was a littl e hesitant. But then I realized that it was only her and Braden on the ride and if she wanted off, I'm sure the lady operating the ride would have stopped it. As soon as it started moving Livi says "Weee". I started laughing. So next thing I know, I'm shouting out to her to pull on the stick and up she went.

Ahhh....quiet time for everyone!

What a Mother's Day!

Liv's 2 year Check Up

2010-04-30T15:30:00.000-07:00

So Olivia had her two year check up today. It was a little sad too, for two reasons. 1. Because Olivia is getting so big and 2. Because her Doctor. Dr. Rorick who has been her doctor since she was born has decided to retire, so this was the last time we would see him.

Olivia's check up went really well. He said that she a little small for her age but not the smallest he's seen. Dr. Rorick asked how she was doing with her words? I looked at him and says "she doesnt shut up"...then started laughing. I said that she is doing really well with her words. She seems to be able to communicate with me very well. And it's funny, after looking over her paperwork that was given to me; it says "Your child may be ready to...know at least 20 words and say two-word phrases". Really, only 20 words?

Anyhoo, she weighs 25 pounds which puts her at the 24% tile for weight and she is 32.5" tall which puts her at 12% tile for her height. I guess her original name "Peanut" still fits.

Good thing is...she didnt have to get any shoots today..PHEW! No crying...oh wait! She did decided to have a temper tantrum because she wanted to push the elevator button and before she was able to get to the button the doors closed. So then she hit the STOP button. By that point, Mommy yelled "NO!" and pulled her away. If you dont know..I have a tiny fear of being stuck in an elevator! So after the elevator doors open (sigh) Liv threw herself on the floor and cried. Needless to say, I had to pick her up and carry her to the car while she kicked and screamed. Ahh...what a trip.

So the next time Liv goes for a check up is when she turns 3 and she will have her new doctor. Dr. Simone Porter. Which I'm sure we will meet her sooner then a year from now :o)

Please Touch Museum

2010-04-25T16:11:00.000-07:00

Uncle Kenny, Aunt Heather and Brandon, Invited Liv and I to the Please Touch Museum, in Philadelphia, PA., on Saturday. So we all squeezed into the 4-Runner and made the 2 hour drive. Oh, did I mention that we listed to Alvin and the Chipmunks The Squeakquel? They have the cutest voices dont they?

This is a museum that is designed only for children. It's a HUGE building with all kinds of fun rooms to play in.

Daddy is so proud...Livi is operating a backhoe

A life size hampster wheel!!

Livi is learning to drive a bus!

My little duck hoarder! and did I mention...Water!!!!

And more water!

Liv's First Carousel Ride. She seemed to really like it

Ahh...I love this picture!

Big Girl Bed

2010-04-21T18:30:00.001-07:00

Last week Olivia proved to me that she was able to climb out of her crib. She started on Friday night. All of the sudden I hear a TUNK! So I head to her room. As soon as I hit the steps, there she is coming down. So I put her back in her crib and a few minutes later, I hear TUNK! So I again head back to her room and she has already started down the stairs. So Friday night I told her that if she gets out of her bed then she is in time-out. IT WORKED! Until Sunday morning. I was enjoying eating my breakfast by myself and I was listening to Liv on the monitor. Next thing I know, I was getting up to get her and she was behind me in the kitchen. I didn't even hear her get out of her crib. So needless to say, I converted her crib into her toddler bed!

She was so happy to see that she had a "Big Girl Bed". Once I finally got her crib taken apart and the new rails up, she ran from one side of her room, turned around and ran straight for her bed. As soon as she got to the opening she stopped and gently climbed in. She has been so easy to put to bed since, I should have made her "Big Girl Bed" sooner!

Every night since, she climbs in her bed, lays down, sucks her thumb, twirls her hair, I cover her up, give her a kiss on her forehead, tell her to have sweet dreams, turn the light out, and head down the steps. She hasn't gotten up yet. Let's hope it stays that way!

Getting so big!!!! So fast!!!!!

Happy Easter!

2010-04-20T17:50:00.000-07:00

The Easter Bunny has come! WOW, does the East Bunny know how to treat a kid right? Liv got clothes, candy, books, cookies and so much more.

Liv's Easter Basket!

Livi's First Easter Egg Hunt! The Easter Bunny hid some plastic eggs with M&M's. Once Liv realized that there were M&M's in the eggs, she gave up on the hunt!

A Day at the Aquarium

2010-04-20T17:07:00.000-07:00

We decided to take Liv to the Baltimore Aquarium for her birthday. We went and saw all kinds of fish, reptiles, jellyfish, birds and so much more. She seemed to really enjoy it. She pointed out the fish, turtles and was amazed by the Jelly Fish!

Mr. Turtle. I have no idea how old this guy his but he was HUGE!

I dont remember what this guy is but he was having a really bad hair day!

BUBBLES!!!

Da Jellyfish!

Even Daddy and Monkey need to rest!

Livi's 2nd Birthday Party

2010-04-19T15:03:00.000-07:00

HAPPY 2nd BIRTHDAY!!!!

From One.............................To Two!

We had Livi's 2nd birthday party at Pump It Up. She had such a great time. She didn't want to stop jumping and climbing. That place is definitely a place for her. She showed her Daddy and I how she could climb up the slide all by herself. It was so sad watching her go and not needing help anymore. What a year can make!

Liv Climbing the slide all by herself! And showing no fear going down all by herself!

All the kids at the party!

Learning To Blog

2010-04-19T10:28:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

I just wanted to let you all know that I am going to try to keep up with this site. I want a way to have my memories written down but in a fun way. So I thought, what better way then this? So please be patient!

My goal for this site is to keep a "diary" of what we have been up too. So please feel free to check in as often as you want to see our latest post.