Hemme Happenings

Christmas Morning 2011

2012-01-07T17:43:00.000-08:00

He came! He came! He finally came!

Looks like Cole was a very good boy this year.

Emily furiously opens her presents as Grandpa enjoys coffee from his soup bowl sized, "I love Grandpa" mug.

Grayson shows off one of his new Halo figure to Nana, the 10th reindeer.

Those are some cool Converse, Emily. Santa could use a pair of those.

Visiting

2011-12-22T13:55:00.000-08:00

We spent the morning visiting Nana and Grandpa and seeing all their Christmas decorations.

Hurry Santa

2011-12-22T07:58:00.000-08:00

The kids have readied their gingerbread village for Santa. You can tell this is a very diverse neighborhood. We have the neat freak, the minimalist and the hoarder.

Santa, don't forget your best reindeer Rudolph. You will be needing his help to pull your sleigh.

Preschool Christmas Program

2011-12-11T19:25:00.001-08:00

It was the night of Cole's first Christmas program. He and his little classmates have been practicing with their teacher, Mrs. Hodges, for weeks.

They all looked beautiful in their Christmas finery.

There were reindeer, wise men, shepherds and our little angels. Cole sang his little heart out.

After a class prayer, they were rewarded with cookies and juice.
Great job Cole!

16 More Days Till Christmas

2011-12-09T21:35:00.000-08:00

Christmas excitement has hit the Hemmelgarn household.

Only 15 more nights until I can answer Cole's nightly question, "Is Santa coming tonight Mama?" with a, "Yes, he is Honey!"

Jeff's Birthday

2011-12-09T21:27:00.000-08:00

Jeff's birthday request was to spend the weekend in San Francisco. We spent lots of time visiting some of our favorite spots around Union Square. We even got in a bit of shopping.

The trip wouldn't be complete without a trip to a Noe Valley pub to have a few drinks with his good friend Peter. It was a great chance to bring back happy memories and create a few new ones. Happy birthday Jeff.

Preschool Friends

2011-12-09T21:25:00.001-08:00

Cole is really enjoying his first year at preschool. He especially enjoys his time on the playground and getting rides from his good friend Nicholas.

Emily Turns 13

2011-12-09T21:15:00.000-08:00

It was the night before Emily's thirteenth birthday and I offered to take her out to dinner to celebrate. She said she would rather eat at home, but requested that dinner be served on the floor. Her brothers happily complied.

She finished off her unconventional birthday celebration with a pumpkin pie.
Happy birthday Emily. May you never loose your quirky charm.

Dino Dash

2011-11-08T09:37:00.000-08:00

Grayson encouraged the family to participate in the Dino Dash 2k.
It was a rainy day so we waited for the start of the race in our dry car.
To build up their energy, Cole and Grayson had a pre-race cookie.

Grayson was excited for the race to begin.

Cole took his time and made friends along the way.

Grayson and Daddy were off and running. They finished near the front of the pack.

Our slightly soggy runners returned home with some donuts and their well deserved finisher ribbons.

Teacher's Helper

2011-11-01T19:57:00.001-07:00

It was Cole's special day being teacher's helper.

He took care of the calendar like an old pro.

He was so proud of himself as he led the pledge.

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Halloween Preseason

2011-10-28T18:45:00.000-07:00

The Halloween preseason is well underway. First the boys showed off their costumes at the Christ Lutheran Treats in the Trunk. Nana and Grandpa were nice enough to take them there while Mom and Dad had a weekend away.
Grayson won first place at the costume contest.

Then there was the Christ Lutheran Preschool parade and trick or treating. The kids made their costumes in class and collected treats around the preschool and church. Cole's classmates made the most charming group of clowns I have ever met.

Grayson paraded around Loma Vista Elementary with his rock star good looks.
Only a few more days till Halloween and we have already had lots of fun.

Children's Church Service

2011-10-27T10:37:00.000-07:00

Cole and a few of his preschool friends performed for an enthusiastic group of family and friends at a church service.

Cole may not be ready for American Idol, but he sure is cute!

Cabo

2011-10-25T21:26:00.000-07:00

Wow! What an incredible vacation we had in Cabo.

We had lots water play with the kids.

We enjoyed a few drinks at the swim up bar.

On top of it all, no one had to cook. That equals a good time to me.

Unfortunately, Jeff and Dave had to do a bit of work while we were there.
At least the location and dress code at this office seemed pretty relaxed.
We were very fortunate to have a chance to spend such a special time with friends and family.

End of Summer

2011-09-21T23:13:00.000-07:00

Nothing signals the end of summer like the last swim lesson. The boys enjoy one last session together before enjoying a family, poolside vacation in Cabo.

Cole Trippin'

2011-09-21T23:09:00.000-07:00

That face is good from any angle.

Cruisin' for Chicks

2011-09-21T22:58:00.001-07:00

Cole hit the preschool scene in style. He quickly and confidently got in the groove of school. I guess all those days that he came with me to volunteer helped. He already knew half of the kids on the playground. Go Coley Go!

Class Project

2011-09-21T22:28:00.000-07:00

One of Cole's first preschool projects was to bring in a family picture to put on the bulletin board. Looking through our picture library, I realized that the last family picture we had showed Cole as a chubby toddler. Jeff quickly came to the rescue with his iphone and a camera timer. Not bad for a single take.

Teacher's Helper

2011-09-21T22:22:00.000-07:00

Grayson was so happy when his teacher picked him as attendance helper on the first week of school. A MOMS Club friend of mine happened to be in the office as he carried out his very important task.

Kindergarten Here I Come!

2011-09-21T21:57:00.000-07:00

Here is our big boy riding off to his first day of school.

He was sporting his new Quicksilver outfit and looking sharp.

We were all there to see him off.He gave his little brother one last hug and headed into class.

Luckily the OC Register was able to get a picture of Grayson and his classmates getting to know their new teacher. He loves school and all his new classmates.
I am sure he will have a great year.

Underwater Brother

2011-08-20T07:51:00.000-07:00

The boy's swim teacher, Jeremy, took this cool underwater picture during their swim lesson.

Beach Gear

2011-08-18T20:19:00.000-07:00

Dad added an army shovel to our beach gear, giving the boys hours of fun building giant sea forts and playing bury the brother.

Beach Babe

2011-08-18T18:47:00.000-07:00

It was Emily's turn to visit Leo Carrillo. We had fun afternoons battling the cold waves together.

We also enjoyed relaxing mornings exploring sea caves and watching the waves from the cliffs.

Beach Camping

2011-07-27T20:21:00.001-07:00

This weekend we discovered the wonders of beach camping at Leo Carrillo State Park. We spent each day playing in the sand and surf and then we walked back to our campsite to eat, shower and rest.
Grayson spent hours constructing tunneled villages and sea walls, and then laughed gleefully as he watched the ocean reclaim his creations.

At night we walked along the cliffs admiring the waves and the sunset.
That is what I call time well spent.

Hiking

2011-07-22T12:50:00.001-07:00

While the boys were at school, Emily and I had a chance to explore Irvine Park. We took our bikes and headed towards the back trails.

After climbing some rocks, we found some beautiful views.

We both agreed that we need to do it again soon.

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Beach Boys

2011-07-10T18:55:00.001-07:00

The boys enjoying our first beach trip of the summer.

We were joined by our good friends Becky and Liam.

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Cole at School

2011-07-10T07:34:00.000-07:00

Here is Cole on his first day at preschool. He has been coming to the school with me when I volunteer each week, so he is pretty much thinks he owns the playground. The first day was all smiles and fun with his teacher Mrs. Hodges.

Men in Mustaches

2011-07-10T07:28:00.000-07:00

I walked into the boys room and found this rather sinister looking group of men in mustaches. They would not reveal their identities, but that little one certainly had a familiar giggle.

Grayson's Karate Show

2011-07-08T19:06:00.000-07:00

For the last session of Grayson's karate class at The Little Gym, the kids put on a show for the parents to demonstrate all that they learned.

Little Gym Graduation

2011-06-13T10:18:00.001-07:00

Surrounded by bubbles and applause, Cole graduated from his Mom and me class at The Little Gym.

He has been with this same group of boys since he was a baby.

He ended the class with a proud "ta-da!".

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Back to Julian

2011-06-12T19:46:00.000-07:00

Another beautiful camping trip to Julian.
This time we visited William Heise Park in San Diego.
We were fortunate to have wonderful, mild weather and a big, open campsite.
Cole went on his first hike and did a great job.
We even encountered two rattlesnakes on the trail.
The boys enjoyed seeing deer, rabbits and lots of wild turkey.
On the way home, we visited animals of a different kind. Dad surprised the boys with a trip to the San Diego Safari Park.

Grayson Without Training Wheels

2011-06-11T19:22:00.000-07:00

Grayson asked Dad to remove the training wheels from his bike. After only two days, he was looking pretty confident.

Salon Day

2011-05-23T19:37:00.001-07:00

Emily has been asking to have her hair lightened to it's summer blonde. We finally relented and she had her first hair salon day.

She was very pleased with the results. We think she always looks beautiful.

Daddy's Little Rocker

2011-05-21T21:40:00.001-07:00

Grayson and Dad were "just going to the bank". They came back with a mini Les Paul guitar. I guess that's what happens when cool dudes hang out.

Rock on Grayson!

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Busy Day

2011-05-20T17:36:00.001-07:00

Our day started with a trip to Centenial Farms to pet chicks and watch the piglets.

After lunch and naps we walked to Grayson's future school to check out the carnival. I know everyone will sleep well tonight.

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Easter 2011

2011-05-20T13:45:00.000-07:00

First Lessons at Blue Buoy Swim School

2011-05-19T21:43:00.000-07:00

To get ready for summer, the boys started up swim lessons. They love their new swim school.

Hemmelgarn Park

2011-05-16T19:58:00.000-07:00

Just a little video to capture the age and mood of the boys at play.

Mother's Day

2011-05-16T16:02:00.001-07:00

I felt like a very fortunate woman this Mother's Day. I was showered with kisses, hugs and thoughtful presents.

Then the kids treated us all to personal pizzas made to order.

They were made with love and absolutely delicious.

After lunch and naps, we all took a bike ride to the nearby playground.

I couldn't have asked for a better Mother's Day.

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Whale Watching

2011-05-16T14:23:00.001-07:00

Inspired by an art project Grayson created at school, we decided to go on a whale watching tour out of Newport.

Cole was ready for his big adventure.

Despite some overcast weather, we had a great trip. We had great sightings of a blue whale and lots of dolphins.

Return to Julian

2011-05-10T19:40:00.000-07:00

It was Cole's first camping trip.
He loved the the camping and fishing,
but the highlight may have been his first trip into the nearby mining town.

He took a tour through a real mine tunnel.

After the tour we went to the old soda fountain to have burgers, fries and yummy shakes.

After naptime, we came back into town for a beautiful tour of the countryside in a horse drawn carriage. Now that's my kind of camping.

Saint Rocke Show

2011-04-07T22:15:00.000-07:00

This was video I took at Saint Rocke in Hermosa Beach of Heroes U.K.
Jeff and his band put on a great show. Needless to say, I am a really big fan.

Bunnies

2011-04-07T20:51:00.000-07:00

Weekends are often a chance for Emily and Grayson to play Wii. Grayson wrote this song about the game Rayman Raving Rabbids and we put together a video for it.

Free Wheeling

2011-04-01T20:40:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the encouragement of his wonderful teachers, Grayson is learning how to ride a two wheel bike. Go, Grayson, go!

Handy Men

2011-03-31T21:14:00.000-07:00

The boys helped Dad with some projects around the house. It seems that there was a very clear division of labor. Grayson was in charge of power tools and Cole was in charge of eating the popcorn. Looks like they have everything under control.

Waste Management Tour

2011-03-31T21:13:00.000-07:00

As it is in many households with young boys, trash day is a big event here. That is why we were very excited to take the Waste Management tour with our MOMS Club. The boys looked very handsome in their gear, but they didn't care for the smell.
Guess they will be looking for another profession to go into.

Fed Ex

2011-03-31T21:12:00.001-07:00

I didn't realize that Fed Ex delivered live animals.
This one seems to have a wild look in it's eyes.

Riding High

2011-03-31T21:10:00.000-07:00

The boys enjoyed their pony rides at Grayson's school
so much that they tried it again at Irvine Park.

Hope they don't get too into it. I don't think our backyard would hold a pony.

Bike Ride at Irvine Park

2011-03-31T21:09:00.000-07:00

We rarely see the creek at Irvine Park filled with water. Our last bike ride through the park treated us to sights that could rival some of our Northern California campgrounds.

Ponies at Preschool

2011-03-31T21:08:00.000-07:00

Grayson's school had some ponies visit for pictures and rides. Cole used his charms to get a ride in the parking lot. I was surprised at how quick that pony was and how fearless Cole was. He is such a little daredevil.

On Top of the World

2011-03-31T21:07:00.000-07:00

As a child, I used to love exploring the hills behind my parent's house, climbing the rocks and looking for lizards. When we visited Nana and Grandpa recently, I thought it was only right that the kids enjoyed the same experience.

I didn't fully realize how much being a mother changed my view of such adventures.
I think I aged 3 years just seeing Emily up on her perch. She was elated.

Homework

2011-03-31T21:05:00.000-07:00

Grayson is at that great age where he is actually asking for homework like his big sister.
The teacher in me couldn't pass up that teachable moment, so we started letter and number practice. During this session we were using dinosaurs to solve addition problems.

Cole even got into the act, sorting the dinosaurs by color. Eventually the dinosaurs were jumping out of the bowls getting dumped on the table, but it was educational while it lasted.

Birthday Cruising

2011-02-24T18:38:00.001-08:00

Nothing takes the sting out of turning 40 quite like a cruise to Mexico.
This is our activities director and my handsome date for the cruise, Jeff.

We were joined by our good friends Dave and Milene.
Milene was also celebrating a birthday.

When the Paradise docked in Ensenada, Mexico, we went exploring.

We didn't get much farther than Hussong's Cantina,
where we were treated to a most unique performance of The Wall.

When we arrived home, my parents and the kids had planned a surprise birthday celebration complete with balloon hats.

Yes, I think 40 is going to be a pretty great year.

Growing Too Quickly

2011-02-03T09:28:00.000-08:00

I know every mother says it, but I am convinced that Cole is really growing up too quickly.

Maybe I just want it to last because I know he is my last baby. Maybe he is trying to keep up with his older brother and sister. (Photo by my friend Lam)

At least I know that at the end of playtime, when he is all warm and soft in bed, he will be my baby for a very long time.

Mount Irvine

2011-01-15T11:37:00.000-08:00

Look at our two brave climbers at the summit of Mount Irvine.

Ok, it may be some boulders on a playground, but they were very proud of themselves.

Fly a Kite

2011-01-14T20:00:00.001-08:00

Wind has always been one of my least favorite types of weather.

Today, I had a chance to see how much enjoyment it can bring to two little boys.

I may need to change my opinion of windy weather.

Pretend City January 2011

2011-01-14T12:08:00.000-08:00

Saturday in the Park

2011-01-11T17:53:00.000-08:00

A wonderful Saturday afternoon and all five of us are together at the park.
Life is good.

Discovery Science Center

2010-12-29T17:10:00.000-08:00

Thanks for the Discovery Science Center membership Dad!

Christmas 2010

2010-12-27T07:18:00.000-08:00

We were blessed with a wonderful Christmas this year.

On Christmas Eve Eve we visited Nana and Grandpa's house.

Santa came to our house and judging by all the presents,
he thought the kids were very good this year.

Now I just need to find a place to put all those toys!

Christmas Cheer

2010-12-19T14:31:00.001-08:00

We really enjoyed seeing Grayson in his school Christmas program. He may have been in the back row, but his Christmas cheer shone through.

Christmas Preparations

2010-12-19T14:27:00.001-08:00

Everyone is getting ready for Christmas.
The tree is trimmed and stockings are hung.

Grayson is all smiles on his last day of school before vacation.

Emily and the boys decorate their mini Christmas trees.
We are all ready Santa, please hurry!

Santa Photo

2010-12-08T12:39:00.000-08:00

The kids all enjoyed visiting Santa and sharing their letters with him this year. Cole is especially excited. I think he is drooling just thinking of all the toys and goodies Santa may bring.

Cuddles and Snuggles

2010-11-25T09:45:00.000-08:00

Cole can't think of anyplace that he would rather be, than cuddled up in Emily's bed on a chilly Thanksgiving morning.

Good Day Sunshine

2010-11-23T22:30:00.000-08:00

Little Pilgrim

2010-11-23T18:49:00.000-08:00

This little pilgrim says, "Happy Thanksgiving!"

Hobo Style

2010-11-13T20:07:00.001-08:00

For Emily's birthday party this year, she planned a hobo party. She spent over a week planning and setting up her hobo encampment. Her friends all donned their best hobo costumes and pulled up a crate to the campfire.

Her guests enjoyed beans and soup from the can and hot dogs served in pie tins. One of the favorite dishes was what Emily called "garbage dumpster cake". It was a sight to behold with old cans and bottles, dirt, and wiggly worms. Yummy!

Even though Cole was too young to join the party, he did his best to get in the hobo spirit by trying on some of Emily's costume.

Emily's 12th Birthday

2010-11-12T20:46:00.000-08:00

Emily celebrated her 12th birthday in style.
Nana and Grandpa treated her to a birthday lunch.

There were presents to be opened, and manicures waiting to happen.

Emily is great with the gift opening reactions. No wonder she enjoyed drama class.
There was also lots of time to goof around with her brothers. Here she fashioned protective gear for herself to wear in a cotton ball fight they were having.

With Emily there is always some art involved, even if it is only on her own knee.

Autumn Leaves

2010-11-08T06:30:00.000-08:00

Grayson suggested that we rake up the leaves in the backyard. Cole and I joined in, eager to celebrate the change in season. The boys were quickly done in by the 90 degree day.

Their shorts and sweaty faces don't exactly look like the Fall scenes we see in books and movies, but we had a great time anyway.

Pumpkin Patch

2010-11-06T06:30:00.000-07:00

Halloween is finally here, but what to do with all those long hours before trick-or-treating begins? The kids suggested the pumpkin patch, so we headed off to run off some excess energy.

There was no shortage of photo ops.

Totem of Cuties

Emily shows off her prize pumpkin patch catch.

Five At Last!

2010-11-04T21:14:00.000-07:00

Five Years Old at Last!
The day couldn't come soon enough for Grayson, for me it came too quickly.
It was a very happy occasion, with family, cake and many presents.

Getting Ready for Halloween

2010-10-31T08:23:00.000-07:00

Who's That Girl?

2010-10-30T18:52:00.001-07:00

Just a cool self portrait from Emily.

Halloween Parties

2010-10-30T07:48:00.000-07:00

The kids spent the day enjoying Halloween Parties with their friends. Emily went back to her elementary school to enjoy the Fall carnival with Ally and Cassie.

Grayson's class made their own popcorn costumes and trick or treated around the school.
He was so cute, Jeff was going to eat him up!

Monkey Around at Pretend City

2010-10-28T22:11:00.000-07:00

The boys were very excited to check out this Curious George exhibit at Pretend City.

When we got to the new exhibit, we were greeted by this handsome doorman.

Cole wasted no time blasting off in George's rocket ship.
So many things to explore. I am sure we will be going back soon.

Last Day As a Four Year Old

2010-10-24T16:05:00.000-07:00

Grayson decided to spend his last day as a four year old at the Santa Ana Zoo.
The eagle is his favorite animal on the carousel.

Cole was being a little monkey as usual.

Treats in the Trunk

2010-10-24T15:05:00.000-07:00

Each Halloween Grayson's preschool puts on a party they call Treats in the Trunk.

The kids love showing off their costumes before Halloween.

They also like getting an early start on those candy buckets.

Grayson's Birthday Trip

2010-10-21T21:28:00.000-07:00

After several months of waiting, Grayson finally got to go on his Disneyland birthday trip. With Emily gone and Cole at home, Grayson got to call all the shots.

One favorite spot was Pirate Island. He loved exploring the caves. I did my best to keep up with him, but he managed to lose me a few times.

He was quite the daring pilot on the rockets.

The Buzz Lightyear ride is always a hit.

Nothing says birthday outing like a gigantic ice cream sandwich.
Since it was a drizzly, school day, the lines were short enough to squeeze in 14 rides and two meals. We all arrived home happy and tired.

Twilight

2010-10-19T06:39:00.000-07:00

I am getting concerned that Emily may be reading too many of those vampire books. It seems to be affecting her somehow. Well, at least she still has good taste in music.

Happy Birthday

2010-10-04T17:49:00.001-07:00

The birthday twins celebrated another birthday together. Nana and Cole spent a wonderful morning together filled with presents and family.

I am sure Cole is going to spend many mornings enjoying his birthday gifts.

Hiking

2010-09-29T21:46:00.000-07:00

Grayson decided to sit out the September camping trip,
so Jeff and I spent a weekend at William Heise by ourselves.

We had a chance to go on a few great hikes,
something we haven't done since Grayson was born.

Along the way, we ran across this little kingsnake.
We admired his spunk, especially since he was only a few inches long.

It's Potty Time

2010-09-12T21:52:00.000-07:00

Cole is always eager to do what his big brother does. He seemed interested in using the potty too, so we picked him up this froggy potty. He has the sitting and reading thing down, now we just have to be patient.

Fire Station

2010-09-10T21:40:00.000-07:00

Our Mom's Club had a chance to take a tour of a local fire station.
Cole wasted no time making friends with the firemen.

He had a chance to use the fire hose,

check out the equipment,

and even sit behind the wheel.
Hopefully he had a chance to see that "sirens safe", as he always repeats whenever he hears one passing by.

Pine Tree Park

2010-09-07T21:27:00.000-07:00

It may be a gloomy morning in the park but the boys smiles are as bright as ever. Cole never seems to grow tired of going back and forth over this odd looking dinosaur.

Grayson prefers to "ride the wild turtle". Ride 'em turtle boy!

Julian Mine Tour

2010-08-23T21:08:00.000-07:00

Another camping trip to Julian found us on a mine tour given by a local family. Emily seemed to enjoy to ride in the old mine train around the Smith family ranch.

The kids had a chance to see how a pioneer family might have lived years ago.

Dad and Grayson found themselves on the wrong end of a cannon. Good thing it wasn't loaded.

Grayson is becoming quite a good camper and explorer. I know he is looking forward to his next adventure.

First Angels Game

2010-08-11T19:11:00.000-07:00

After several sessions of T-ball classes, it was time for Grayson to attend his first major league baseball game. Who better than to introduce him to this wonderful pastime than Daddy and Grandpa. As if the hot dogs and peanuts weren't enough, the Angels rewarded Grayson by winning the game with a home run in the 10th inning.

Roughing It

2010-07-27T20:40:00.000-07:00

8 years ago, our idea of camping was putting everything into a backpack and hiking to a remote location with our friend Dave.
When Emily joined us, car camping became a must.

Several years later, we have taken our camping to the next level. We are now the proud owners of a home on wheels. I don't know if we are getting soft or smart, but it sure feels good to me.

The kids seem to be enjoying it too. Grayson took a break from "roughing it" to have lunch at a local BBQ joint.

Emily enjoyed the darker side of town as she checked out the old gold mine, jail and cemetery. Thumbs up to ghost hunting Emily.

Gone Fishing

2010-07-01T21:08:00.001-07:00

Another wonderful trip to Pinezanita, and this time we actually caught some fish.
Grayson started with the first catch.

Emily really got into fishing and says she caught 12 fish that weekend. It may have been more like 9 or 10, but every true fisherman needs to exaggerate a little.

She was really enthusiastic about cooking and eating her catch, until she heard us talking about how we would go about killing the fish to cook. She quickly decided to let her little prisoners go.

When we went into the mining town of Julian, and Grayson was excited to see a racing club come through Main Street. It was quite a contrast to the horse drawn carriage in the background.

To Jeff and I, nothing says camping like a glass of wine and a roaring fire.
Cheers to burning things!

Lego Land

2010-06-15T20:31:00.000-07:00

Grayson and Jeff went out for some guy time last week.
They met friends from San Francisco at Lego Land.

They came back with lots of stories of driving cars...

running through play mazes...

...and driving more cars.
Somewhere along the way, everyone got soaking wet.
Sounds like the perfect guy day to me.

I don't know who had more fun that day.
I do know that at the end of the day, Grayson was one tired, happy little boy.

Honor Roll

2010-06-11T20:36:00.000-07:00

With only a week left in school, Emily wrapped up elementary school in style.

She participated in an assembly where she was recognized for making the honor roll.

Later in the day, she and the rest of the 5th and 6th grade band gave a performance.
Wow, what a difference from their squeaky days in September when they first picked up their instruments. Great job Emily. We are very proud of you.

Little Camper

2010-06-11T19:41:00.000-07:00

It was finally time for Grayson's first camping trip. After setting up camp, he got a lesson in fishing gear, using Grandpa Hemmelgarn's well stocked tackle box.

Next they headed down to the fishing pond where Dad taught him how to use the rod and reel.

No fish were caught that weekend, but Grayson was not discouraged.

He cheerfully went back to the campsite, ready to spend the night in his very own tent.
Grayson proved to be quite the little camper, I am sure this will be followed by many more camping trips in the coming years.

Open House

2010-05-27T20:30:00.000-07:00

It hardly seems possible that we are nearing the end of the year and with it Open House nights at the kids schools. The evening started at Emily's school where she showed off her contribution to the classroom heroes quilt. Emily created the Elvis square.

Over at Grayson's school, we were treated to a dinosaur inspired show.

Afterwards, Grayson excitedly showed us around his classroom and playground.
We are so proud of our great students.

On Safari

2010-05-24T06:30:00.000-07:00

The brave biologists set out to explore the jungles of Santa Ana.

Emily encounters rough roads on her way to find the giant lizard of Orange County.

They are shocked to find Cole has already captured and tamed the giant beast.

Library Card

2010-05-20T06:30:00.000-07:00

Grayson has enjoyed library story time for years.
This week he asked for his own library card.
He proudly checked out his first book this Thursday,
and couldn't wait to have Dad read it to him that night.

Spring Training

2010-05-17T21:37:00.000-07:00

Continuing with his exploration of various sports,
Grayson decided to try out t-ball.

We all enjoy watching him having fun with his friends.
Grandpa is one of the most loyal fans.

Dad, of course, is his biggest fan.
He is always there to coach and encourage him in everything he does.

Mother's Preschool Picnic

2010-05-07T12:48:00.000-07:00

When you are invited to a Mother's Day Party by a gentleman this handsome,
you don't hesitate to put on your party dress and go.

When we arrived at his preschool, Grayson presented me with beautiful roses.
This guy certainly knows how to treat a lady.

After a yummy lunch under the trees,
he showed me some of his favorite things to do on the playground.

You are looking at one very proud and happy Mommy and one charming young man.
Thank you for a wonderful afternoon Grayson.

Toys

2010-04-29T15:23:00.001-07:00

Sometimes the best toys, aren't toys at all. Cole was very impressed by how much noise he could make as he gleefully banged on the pots in the kitchen.

Pizza King

2010-04-16T20:33:00.000-07:00

It was Friday night when the cries went out for fast food. When I insisted that we head home for dinner I was greeted with groans. Then the kids came up with the idea to open their own restaurant. Pizza King was born.

Emily served up the "happy meals" complete with pizza pockets, dessert and a toy surprise.

Pizza King was a hit, with great ambience and happy customers.

Peanuts

2010-04-14T20:17:00.000-07:00

Sometimes it is the little rituals that mean so much to the kids. The boys just love sitting down with Dad after work, eating peanuts he brings from the farmer's market.

Easter 2010

2010-04-10T12:17:00.001-07:00

Easter was great fun this year. There were treats left by the Easter Bunny, buckets of fun from Nana and Grandpa, and a challenging Easter egg hunt.
You gotta make those kids work for the eggs!

Car Wash

2010-03-30T06:30:00.000-07:00

Grayson loves helping Dad wash his car. Cole just loves playing with the bubbles. Either way, it looks like a good way to spend and afternoon.