A DAY IN THE LIFE OF..

Engineer

2012-01-31T19:01:00.001-08:00

Coley, you built this Lego aircraft all by yourself. Very focused and creative when it comes to legos....writing homework,not so much.
Love you babes!
Mommy

Lobsters

2012-01-27T19:33:00.001-08:00

Darling,
We helped Grandpa celebrate his retirement after 38 years of government service.

You ordered lobster and you even got to hold one. You were sooo excited.

Congratulations! Watch out route 66, the mustang's a coming'.

Hands

2012-01-23T19:56:00.000-08:00

Darling,

Dad snapped this shot of you. He sent another one with your hand up by your face and he let me in on a little secret. You have his hands. You are so much of your father, from your skin, to your hands, to your BIG personality.

I love you baby.

Mom

Happy New Year Coley!

2012-01-23T18:57:00.000-08:00

Love,

Here is what we did this weekend:

Friday night: Movie Night at Emerald Elementary. They set up in the old gym, featured "How to Train Your Dragon", dished up ice cream and popcorn. You and Carson hung out and I actually watched the movie...even though we'd already seen it.

Saturday DAY: puzzles, IKEA, lunch, bikes and parks. We started our morning off by completing two puzzles you got for x-mas. Then, we took Grandma to breakfast at Ikea //kind of yucky food//and then met up with Uncle D and crew and ALMOST made it through the whole store but didn't quite get there because you know who had a meltdown. I'll give you a hint, it wasn't me. We'll go again Grandma.

Then, we all headed to lunch at Red Robin's. You, Ellie, and Parker sort of ate food but were mostly interested in the video games. Ellie and Parker will pretty much follow you anywhere. Thanks for lunch Uncle D and Auntie V.

Next up was a good bike ride and park fun with the Pope's and then it was time for.....

Saturday NIGHT: Sleepover with Sofia at the our place!! We picked up Sofia, ordered some pizza, and you two played for four hours before it was time for lights out, include having a dance party that I recorded. Watch it here.

SUNDAY: Sofia-time, movie-time, library-time, bath-time, bed-time. The morning was filled with more play with Fia for another five hours. After we dropped her off, we took a walk and it was CHILLY. So we decided to stay inside and watch Super 8. Thanks Dad for the great movie! Then, we were off to the library. You LOVE the science room. Then, we had some quiet time and you read some of your new books. Bath time and then Bed time.

I love you soooo much Monkey. We had a great weekend.
I miss you tonight.
Big hugs,
Mommy

Merry Christmas Coley

2011-12-27T17:48:00.000-08:00

Our day in pictures. We started our morning off by eating breakfast (my first time making it and you even liked it). Then spent most of the day at Grandma's building a snowman and a fort, making cookies, helping get dinner ready....and finally....the handing out of presents, which is your job. You asked every 15 minutes for 10 hours if you could open a present or if you could start sorting the presents. I'm going to say you were a little excited for Christmas. I don't know...maybe just a little. Watching you, Eliana and Parker open presents was so entertaining. Everything you opened you said, "I've ALWAYS wanted this." And because you were saying this, Parker had to copy you....because he absolutely adores you. You were especially excited by the Razor skateboard that Parker got for you. You gave him a huge hug. Precious moments. Mom, thanks for hosting us and for all the wonderful gifts.

Then it was off to Aunt Donna's house. It was great to see all the aunts, uncles and cousins. The table of treats was full with all sorts of sweet delights. We sang caroles and laughed. Everyone was in good spirits. Santa visited and brought you a little IQ game. Your face was classic sitting on his lap. You're even big enough now to play the white elephant gift exchange game...more laughing and being silly all around. Thanks Aunt Donna for hosting the family and continuing this holiday tradition.

We finished our night by going to the Christmas Museum on Elati. Uncle D says it's the last year he will be decorating his house. Guess he's retiring from entertaining the citizens of Englewood and beyond during Christmas. I guess 30 years is a looonnngg time. You fell asleep during the car ride home, exhausted from our day and excitement that Christmas brings.

Now fully rested, you woke at 6 a.m. with your standard greeting from your bed.
c -"Good Morning Mom".
m -"Good Morning Cole."
c - "Do you think Santa came?"
m - "I'm sure he did."
Yes, he came and coupled with the presents from Grandma and Daddy, you scored. You should be entertained for a long time. Once the wrapping paper is off, it's a race to open everything all at once only to touch it for a few seconds and move on to the next.

Merry Christmas Darling. I love you so much.
Mom

2011 Movies

2011-12-27T17:46:00.000-08:00

Here are the movies we saw in the theater this year:

Green hornet
Gnomeo and Juliet
I am number four
Rango
Mars needs moms
Paul
Diary of a wimpy kid
Hop
Soul surfer
Rio
Thor
Hoodwinked Too
African Cats
Kung Fu Panda 2
X-Men: First Class
Judy Moody
Green Lantern
Cars2
Transformers: Dark of the Moon
Captain America
Rise of the Planet of the Apes
Spy Kids 4
Puss in Boots
Hugo
The Muppets
Arthur Christmas
Alvin and the Chipmunks: Chipwrecked

It's one of our favorite pastimes.

School Party

2011-12-27T17:40:00.001-08:00

How full is your bucket? Your poster is based on a book you read titled How Full is Your Bucket? Daddy and I met you at your class one day for your class party. We brought some goodies and got to see some of the work you've been doing. Mainly, we just watched you make a gingerbread placemat and then eat snacks on it. Glad we made it to your celebration. Love you doll. Mommy

Skate City

2011-12-27T17:28:00.000-08:00

Darling,

It was the fall trip to Skate City for Emerald Elementary. You took the fun bus with Carson and I picked up two up for a sleep over. When I got there, you proudly told me that you had drank a Pepsi AND a Mountain Dew and had cotten candy. YIKES...can you say sugar high? And I'm thinking, "and we're going to have ANOTHER one of you at the house tonight?" Oh boy.

Needless to say, you boys were pretty good. We had a great night and then the next morning we went for donuts and a walk around the lake.

Here's to sleep overs with BFFs. I still love them too.

Love ya,
Mommy

Birthday Wishes

2011-12-04T11:58:00.000-08:00

Sugar,
Grandma and Grandpa invited us to celebrate Uncle Derrick's birthday at Chili's. So, we cruised over there after some jumpstreet fun with Julian and enjoyed lunch with the family. It was fun to taste test tacos with Uncle D and see who's was better. No decision was made. Happy 38th Birthday Uncle Derrick!

After lunch, we went over to the Pope's house for some coffee, hot chocolate, pie, playtime and conversation. It was nice sipping coffee and chatting with V. It's been too long.

Here is picture taken on Thanksgiving of you and Parker...sooo cute! I love you so much Cole.
Mommy

Thanksgiving

2011-12-04T11:49:00.001-08:00

This picture sums up how we all felt after we ate on Thanksgiving. Grandma and Grandpa hosted a Thanksgiving Day Lunch. Derrick, Veronica, Ellie, and Parker made it down too. We ate great food (I'm still dreaming of those green beans), had some cake for Uncle Derrick's birthday and then we walked down to the park.

The day was enjoyable and filling. There are so many things to be thankful for and it's hard to see those things when it feels like everything is slipping away, but they are there. And Thanksgiving proved it yet again. The love of family and friends and of good health -- that's enough for me.

I love you Coley.

Mommy

Ice Skating

2011-12-04T11:42:00.001-08:00

Darling,
I was lucky enough to come watch you ice skate in Boulder during a SAC field trip. I popped over and watched you and Dyana skating.

I surprised you with a hot chocolate that the two of you shared. It was awesome.

You've become quite the little ice skater; So proud to show me how fast you can go.

Love ya doll. Mommy

Cheering on Daddy

2011-12-04T11:30:00.001-08:00

Cole,

I thought I already typed a blog about this but apparently not. We cheered daddy on during a cyclo-cross race with winds gusts that practically carried US off. I have no idea how anyone competed that day. Great job Chris!

While daddy was hard at work, we were goofing off, trying to find protection from the wind. A pine tree was our refuge. Thanks for cheering daddy on with me, Coley.

Love ya. Mommy

Bubbles

2011-11-13T19:17:00.000-08:00

For about a month now, you've been so proud of yourself for being able to blow bubbles. You've been wanting me to see and FINALLY I did and caught it on camera.

It took pieces of sugar-free hubba bubba and you've been blowing bubbles like mad this weekend. I use to chew gum all the time

It's fun, huh? Welcome to the club.

Surevelvet

2011-11-13T19:06:00.000-08:00

Cole,
You keep telling me this -
"Mom, when I grow up, I'm going to buy a Surevelvet so I can drive you around and take you places."

It's a mix between a Chevelle, Corvette, and who knows what else. In the end you really mean a lime green Camero that we see all time at the dealership by our house. But you know what honey, if you want to call it a Surevelvet that's fine by me and I'll let you take me anywhere in anything.

I sure do love to hear you call it a Surevelvet though.

My previous boy. I love you.

Mommy

Happy Halloween

2011-10-31T19:38:00.000-07:00

You went as Scream. Carson a skelton.
Bagged lots of candy.

Surrended it to the Pumpkin Fairy.

You'll be verrrry happy in the morning with what she leaves you.
You were such a good trick-or-treater...no whining and very polite.

I love you Scrrrrreeaaammmmm!

Mommy

Dragon Dash 2011

2011-10-31T19:26:00.000-07:00

Coley,
Dragon Dash 2011 was another hit (like there was any question it wouldn't be). You ran fast and hard, your heart practically beating out of your chest. You had a good warm up with your class and I snapped a ton of pictures. I even ran with you this year.

(Cole and Carson)

You're getting fast. Keep running darling...you'll be beating me in no time.

Love you babe.
Mama

T-REX

2011-10-26T11:04:00.001-07:00

T-Rex is at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. You and Daddy went with Bob and Sharon and the kids. Pretty cool!

Afterwards, lunch was at Steve's Snappin Dogs which became a debacle....daddy knows what I'm talkin about. It's hard being 7 sometimes.

Next, it was time for your soccer game. It's funny and frustrating to watch you play. You simply don't like it and I'm not sure why. We just have to smile and say, "only two more weeks". We're taking the winter off....maybe some snowboarding though.

Love you doll.

Mommy

Pumpkin Carving

2011-10-24T19:09:00.001-07:00

Darling,

You and daddy went to the pumpkin patch. You found a perfect pumpkin.
You gave it star eyes and freckles. Love it!

Masterpiece.

Love ya doll.

Pumpkin Patch

2011-10-24T19:07:00.000-07:00

Darling,

October is one of my favorite months. There are so many festivities to do for Halloween. I love the fairs, pumpkins, costumes, and candy (I get any and all tooties rolls, milk duds, and twix that you get while trick-or-treating).

You went to the pumpkin patch with Daddy, craved pumpkins together and roasted the seeds (delicious). This weekend, we're headed to Olde Towne Arvada for some candy snatching. Then, we're headed over to Home Depot for their Spooky Trick-or-Treat. We may even find ourselves at Halloween Town. I hope Jack Sparrow is ready for our adventure.

I love you monkey. Thanks for being so awesome!
Mommy

Guess Who?

2011-10-24T18:49:00.000-07:00

Wings

2011-10-17T20:01:00.000-07:00

Road Trip: New Mexico

2011-10-17T19:31:00.000-07:00

(being silly in Old Town)

Coley,

We took a road trip to New Mexico with Grandma. I had a meeting down in Albuquerque and I asked Grandma if she wanted to go down with us. We left Thursday and made our way to our hotel in about 6.5 hours. You did GREAT! You were so excited to be on vacation and in the hotel.
(eating at Sadie's)

You guys had fun while I was in my meeting. Grandma took you swimming at the hotel. Then it was a trip to Explora Science Center and Childrens Museum. You had a blast. There were so many cool exhibits for your play on.

The next day, you two went to the Aquarium and we all walked to Old Towne.

Back on the road Sunday for our trip back!

Thanks Grandma for going with us and spending time with us. We had a great time.

Love you guys,
Mommy

Parent Teacher Conference

2011-10-11T18:50:00.000-07:00

Cole,
We met with Mrs. White tonight and she talked about what a good student you are. She echoes the words of your wise 1st grade teacher, Mrs. Ohara, by saying "If he just slowed down a bit, took more time."

Your reading is above the charts but she is limiting how fast you progress to make sure you are comprehending and are able to write about what you read. You hate writing, but you have such nice handwriting when you slow down. Same with math. She says your vocabulary is terrific as are your life experiences. She can tell how much we do with you.

She also said she can tell you've been making better choices about what is acceptable behavior and what isn't. She is very proud of your hard work.

You are so smart and cute and funny and can be such a stubborn smarty pants sometimes. We are so proud of you. Keep up the great work.

Hugs,
Mommy

Monkey Bars

2011-10-11T18:44:00.001-07:00

Monkey,
You've been practicing so much on the monkey bars that you pulled your chest muscles. It's called costochondritis, an inflammation of the the intercostal muscles (the muscles between you ribs).

You had us worried though because you kept complaining of sharp pains in your chest so we took you in. The doctor said, "Lay off the monkey bars for a week." And as we left the clinic you said, "Like that's going to happen."

Just glad you're ok. She did an EKG just to make sure and your heart is heathly.

I love you.

Boulder Rez

2011-10-02T19:06:00.000-07:00

Cole,
Around lunchtime, we headed to Boulder to bike around the reservoir. It was fabulous weather and beautiful scenery.

Along our ride, we stopped at the model airplane airport and watched people fly their planes and helicopters. It was super cool.

Then, off we went to complete our ride around the rez. You did GREAT.

Thanks for another great day. Love you baby. Mommy

p.s. after more pool time, we headed over to hang with Grandma and the kids to watch the premier of Veronica's TV show, Making Monsters, on the Travel channel. We're so proud of her.

Emerald's Fall Festival

2011-10-02T18:51:00.000-07:00

Darling,

Saturday was Emerald's Fall Festival. You played all sorts of games, won 50 tickets, ate two cupcakes, and played at the playground. It was fun to watch you. Principal Taneka got in the dunk tank and a few kids got him to dunk.

After the festival, we went to hang with Grandma and kids. We played outside and watched all three of you create chalk masterpieces on the sidewalk and driveway. You wrote "You are a cool mom"....love it! And I love this picture that you drew too.
Then, it was off the pool and by the time we dragged ourselves home and ate, we were both completely exhausted.

Thanks for a fantastic day. I love you.

Mommy

2011-09-25T08:55:00.000-07:00

Sleeping Beauty,
Here are some shots I've taken in the car while you've been getting your beauty rest. I love to watch you sleep. My precious, precious boy.
I love you,
Mommy

Broomfield Days 2011

2011-09-18T19:14:00.000-07:00

Cole,

We've been going to Broomfield Days since you were a baby. We sit on the same corner with Grandma. And as the years have gone by and new little ones added to our extended family, they've joined in as well. I know you're getting big. I know it. I say it to you all the time. But, seeing you with Eliana and Parker this year at the parade...you REALLY are getting big.

After the parade, we walk down to the fair, eat funnel cakes, and watch you bounce around in the jumpy castle and watch you go down this really steep blow up slide. I remember watching you go down this same slide a few years ago - fearless at how high you had to climb and what a steep descent awaits you. You did that same slide this year only there was fear. You got to the top and immediately climbed right back down that steep ladder and said "no way"...Then, I told you about the time you rode it when you were 4 years old and back up you went. You loved it!

(2008 Broomfield Days - Super Steep Slide... I love your face)

You wanted me to leave you at the Emerald float so you could walk with your school in the parade. I was terrified to leave you. I walked to the float with Eliane and Parker, dropped you off, and walked back to Grandma with the babies. Then, I just kind of freaked. So, back to float I went and when you saw me, you were so disappointed that I came back. You were probably thinking "I'm not a baby anymore Mom". You told me to go back, that you were fine. I was nervous until I finally saw the float coming our way shortly after the parade started. There you were, with all your friends and teachers, looking grown up and BIG. You hopped out to hang with us for the rest of the parade....and get candy.

This year, we did the 1-mile fun run! Definitely on the agenda for next year. It was a BLAST! You ran great and really kicked it at the end, all the way to the finish - I could barely keep up with you. Next year, I won't be able to keep up at all.

And that's just another sign that you are getting big and growing up. I'm so proud you and I love you more than you will ever know.

Giant hugs,
Mommy

Carson

2011-09-15T20:04:00.001-07:00

This is your friend Carson.
He is cute.
He laughs at everything.
You are cute.
You love to make people laugh.

The two of you are giving Mrs. White grey hair.
And your young, sweet, pretty SAC teacher Emma.
Come to think of it, you're giving me grey hair too.

But, I how I love to hear you two giggle and play.
Behave darlings. Behave.

Soccer

2011-09-15T19:51:00.000-07:00

Dear Cute, Adorable, Funny Soccer Player,

I love to watch you run the field. You're getting better with practice and Kelli is a great coach. You made friends at the last practice. I hope your soccer career is long and prosperous. You have the focus (when you want to) and the drive (when you want to). Keep up the hard work. Girls dig soccer studs.

Signed,
Your #1 Fan

Spies

2011-09-15T19:48:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how far behind I got on blogging. Sorry.

Cole - we met Uncle Joe and Michael back on August 20 and had movie and lunch. We saw Spies Kids which was entertaining, played in the fountain, brought replacement clothes at Walmart, and then had lunch at Which Wich.

As always, a great day!

Backyard Camping

2011-09-15T19:36:00.001-07:00

Yes, that's right...I spy Aunt Veronica, Parker Pie, and Eliana

It's OFFICIAL! The Pope kids had their first camping experience over Labor Weekend.

They did GREAT!

Thanks for hosting the backyard camping adventure. We had a blast.
Dinner and company was...AMAZING
Fire pit and S'mores...YUMMY
Getting everyone in the tent and asleep in less than 45 minutes...a MIRACLE
Me trying to make coffee and cinnammon rolls in the morning...AMUSING

Love you guys. Thanks for great night!

Grandpa Jack Turns 60!

2011-09-15T19:29:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD!

We had a great time when you guys were here. It was so great to spend time with you, Carol and Emma. Cole adores all of you. It was fun to watch the kids plays and eat delicious food.

Hope you had a great birthday!

p.s. to hear how Grandpa can get super cute baby laughs out of Parker, go here.

Race

2011-08-28T19:11:00.000-07:00

Baby cakes,

You had your first race on your new Ripper X BMX bike at the Valmont Bike Park. Everyone came to watch you. The race wasn't long, but you were totally into it. Check it out here.

You rock. Super proud of how good you are getting with your bikes. Go Daddy for pushing you beyond what you think you're capable of!

Love you,

Mommy

Grandma's B-day

2011-08-28T19:09:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday Grandma!

Thanks for coming up and watching Cole race. Next time, it will be longer. Gotta start somewhere.

Hope you had a great day!

Love ya.

Entomologist

2011-08-27T19:01:00.001-07:00

Cesar took you and Daddy to the field to catch interesting things. You caught a couple hissing cockroaches. Just typing the name gives me the creeps.

You may just end up a scientist.

Love you,
Mommy

Back to School Night

2011-08-27T18:54:00.000-07:00

(Cole and Dyana)

Cole,
It was back-to-school night on Thursday. We got to meet your teachers, see your classroom and your desk, meet some new friends, and see some artwork that you've been doing over the past two weeks. We finished the night outside with otto pops.

Assessment is coming up and I'm excited to see how much your reading progressed over the summer. Now we need to work on spelling and handwriting.

I love your self portaits. I have your kindergarten and your 1st grade ones hanging in my office. Here is your latest self portrait.

Love you monkey,

Mommy

Second Grader...really?

2011-08-16T18:02:00.000-07:00

Cole,
You started second grade yesterday. Impossible. But true. My big second grader. I'm still in disbelief. I asked how your day was and you replied, "It was the best day ever!"
Cheers to that.

Love,

Mommy

Painted Room

2011-08-14T18:49:00.000-07:00

Cole,

Daddy has been telling you that for your birthday, you guys could paint your room. Gone our the baby colors from 7 years ago. The orange we picked is PERFECT...totally matches your personality and looks like a big boys room - you're no baby anymore. You worked hard with dad and it totally paid off. Love you sugar.

Mommy

Camping

2011-08-14T18:40:00.000-07:00

Cole,
Daddy took you camping up to Brainard Lake but the campground was closed - under construction. Bummer. But that didn't stop you guys from camping. You just did it closer to home....like backyard close! You guys pitched the tent, had hot dogs, s'mores, movie in the tent, and you must have slept pretty good because you snored in daddy's ear all night long.

Love you doll,

mommy

Fia's Celebration

2011-08-14T18:34:00.000-07:00

Cole,
We helped Sofia celebrate her birthday today at the rec center with pool party. You guys swam, rode the slides, eat pizza and cake, and gave big hugs.

She hops on a plane tomorrow so you'll only see her through Skype for the next five months. I hope it goes by fast. School starts tomorrow so we'll be in fully swing soon.

Here's sending the Nufio's lots of love. You can practice your writing skills by writing to Sofia. Totally cute if I can convince you. You love getting mail and I'm sure she will too.

Dena & Fia - Be safe.....and please, please, please - don't move to North Carolina permanently.

Hugs,
me

Daddy Turns 43!

2011-08-14T18:23:00.000-07:00

Cole,

I can't believe your daddy is 43 today. He doesn't look like he is in his 40's. Although, Sofia did say that she thought he might be 88 today! You and dad went to breakfast and then saw Planet of the Apes. After Sofia's birthday party, we celebrated with a delicious dinner at Haciendo Colorado and you got him the two last books in the set he is reading.

This is for daddy - "Thanks" and Happy Birthday!

You argued with dad pretty much all day so I'm sure bedtime was the final cap to the day. I bet daddy is enjoying the the silence and finishing his book. Rest your old bones, poppy.

Love,
me

Skating

2011-08-13T21:03:00.000-07:00

Dear Cole,

Grandma Carol, Grandpa Jack, and Aunt Emma are in town. We've been spending time at the Uncle Derrick's visiting them. You've been such a BIG cousin playing so nicely with Eliana and Parker....and giving Emma lots of love. I love to watch you.

Today, Daddy took you and Sofia to Skate City. I love this picture that Dad took. Sofia will be leaving on Monday for five months....so sad. She is celebrating her birthday tomorrow (a month early) so all her friends can help celebrate.

We've been busy. It will be nice to get back into the routine of school. I can't believe you're going to be in second grade. I love you Mr. Seven.

Mommy

VA-KAY

2011-08-08T20:28:00.001-07:00

Cole,

We went camping this past weekend to the Royal Gorge with Michelle. It was a BLAST! We drove down Saturday, found the campsite, pitched the tent and headed for the Royal Gorge. We:

took the tramway across the Gorge (you were scared...but it was cute)

saw Elk, white buffalo, long horn sheep

petted the goats

rode a horse

watched crazy people ride the sky coaster

walked across the bridge

drank an icee

rode the carousel - (what do you do when an lion, girafe, and zebra are chasing you? Get off the merry-go-around. HA HA. Remember that old guy at the gas station told us that one)

Rode the train

Then, we played back at the campground. You:

rode the go-karts with Michelle

went down the BIG slide

ate pizza

roasted marshmellows

got your feet washed (yikes)

and finally slept

You woke up a couple times and said, Mom - look at all the stars...then went right back to sleep. It was funny!

The next day, we went to Garden of the Gods which was awesome and FREE! You were the official photographer and you took some amazing pictures....including a few of my butt...on purpose.

You told Michelle she was pretty....awwwww!

We just had the best weekend. Too many pictures to post but I'll add them to your next book for sure.

Big hugs,

Mommy

Junior Ranger Adventure Day

2011-08-03T19:48:00.000-07:00

Cole,

You and Daddy went with Cesar and Sofia to Junior Ranger Adventure Day on July 30 at Walker Ranch Open Space. You:

1. Helped the rangers solve the crimes that happened in the park.

2. Ran the obstacle course.

3. Built a bird feeder out of recycled materials.

4. Met the special search and rescue dogs that work for the parks.

5. Explored a real ranger patrol vehicle.

Made a pledge:

"As a Junior Ranger, I promise to appreciate, respect, and protect our natural lands, here in Boulder County, and in the natural world, wherever I go. I will help keep wildlife wild, I will leave rocks, plants and historical objects where I find them, for everyone to enjoy, for myself and for future generations."

Love you Jr. Ranger Cole,

Mommy

Clouds

2011-08-03T19:34:00.000-07:00

Dear Cole,

I had a window seat on my flight home from Boston last night. I usually have a aisle seat which means I don't get to the see the beauty of the sky during flight. But last night, I did. When I looked out after a while of resting my eyes, we were so high above the clouds. Big, fluffy, pillowy, cotton balls....everywhere in the blue sunlight sky. I wanted to jump on them with you, play in them with you, hear you laugh and giggle, tickle you on them, lay on them, bound from one to the next forever....I imagined us doing those things I pretended that we could play in the sky and it was a beautiful moment. Thank you for being there with me. Later in the flight, we went through different clouds that were stretched and dense and dark from the setting sun. Gone were our fluffy bouncy cotton balls.

I missed you darling. I love you so much!

Good night Monkey,
Mommy

Visit

2011-07-27T19:49:00.000-07:00

Dear Cole,

Aunt Nancy was here this weekend. We had lunch with her on Sunday. When Uncle Derrick and I were younger, we would go to her farm for summer. We're all grown up now and all my cousin's have babies now. It's hard to imagine.

Thanks for being you darling. Sweet, sweet Cole.

I love you,

Mommy

Happy Birthday Mr. Seven

2011-07-18T19:00:00.000-07:00

Mr. Seven,

How is it even possible? You can't be seven. We were just celebrating you going to Kindergarten and 1st grade....now all of the sudden you're seven. Impossible.

I remember the day the you born. It all started when I went to the bathroom at Safeway. By the time I got and called Grandma, we knew it wouldn't be long before I went into labor. And sure enough, as I was eating my yummy chili dinner, I felt my first contraction. And 12 minutes later, I felt another one. Then 8, then 6, then 4, then 3....and we were off to the hospital. They thought you would come quick, but some 10 hours later, you decided it was time. I remember your first cry. My sweet sweet baby.

I love you more than anything in this world. I was meant to be your mother. If that is my sole purpose for existing, to love you and teach you, then I accept.

I can't explain what being your mother is like. Tonight, I tucked you into bed and you smelled of coconuts and I tickled you and breathed you in. You liked the bathroom spray so much, you sprayed yourself in it. My coconut baby.

You woke me up this morning with smiles and cuddles and "I'm hungry"! I wanted to sleep longer, but you were so cute how could I resist. You still need me!...even if it's just to poor the milk. I'll take it.

You are incredible - in every way. I hope you never forget how special you are. Happy Birthday darling.

I love you,

Mommy

Where did June go?

2011-07-11T17:20:00.000-07:00

Dear Cole,

Too much has been going on to update you on. But, I would like to recount all the fun field trips you took in June (besides the Bay every Friday):

Casa Bonita

Butterfly Pavilion

Invesco Field

Jumpy Jordy's

Skate City

Bowling

I'm sure there is more but I don't remember all your summer camp adventures. We saw a handful of movies too:

Transformers (Grandma took you to the 3D showing. You popped the lens out of the glasses and wore them for a week....it was adorable).
Green Lantern
Cars2
Kung Fu Panda

Daddy took you to the Good Guys Car Show. We went to Lakeside with Uncle Joe and Michael. We even took you and Sofia to the Renaissance Festival. It was a busy month.

Love,

Mommy

Cousins

2011-06-19T19:39:00.001-07:00

Cole,

Last Sunday we went to Uncle Derrick's for a bbq. You and your cousins are soooo cute.

Thanks V and Derrick for inviting us over for good food and conversation.

Love,

Father's Day

2011-06-19T19:32:00.000-07:00

Dear Cole,
We made Dad mexican eggs for breakfast. Then we went for a hike up in Boulder at Dakota Ridge. The air was cool and crisp but it didn't take long for us to warm up. Then, we dropped him at the spa and we cruised down to Grandma and Grandpa's with Uncle Derrick and the kids for lunch.

After we got home, we watched a movie and then made food for the bbq at the Nufio's. What a good time. You played with Sofia and Dylan - chase, finding bugs, baseball, etc.

It was a good weekend celebrating Daddy. You always make us feel so special.

Big hugs,
Wendy

Lakeside Amusement Park

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

Umple Joe and Michael came with us to Lakeside last weekend. We had half off tickets from school so it was well worth it. Now, Lakeside may be old (around since 1908) and it's tired but we sure did have a blast.

Thanks for spending your Saturday with us. We love you guys.

Good Guys Car Show

2011-06-12T19:05:00.001-07:00

Cole,

Dad took you to the Good Guys Car Show last Sunday. You guys had an awesome time looking at the old cars, eating corndogs, buying shirts and sunglasses, and just having some father/son time. I love when you guys have bonding time.

Love you - Mom

Touch-a-Truck

2011-06-12T13:21:00.001-07:00

Cole,
We went to truck-a-truck last weekend. Sadly, it's probably the last time we'll be going to that event...your getting too big. We invited Sofia and stopped for donuts on our way. After donuts though, you guys just weren't getting along. Fighting and arguing...it was painful. So, we didn't stay long. We left, with me telling you that neither of you could talk in the car and after about five minutes, you guys were better. We stopped by a park and you guys played with a catepillar that you found. Then, we headed home because Dena took you guys to Home Depot to the Builders Workshop where you made dad a Father's Day present. You guys ended up spending most of the day together, but geez, it was a rough one.

I remember taking you to Touch-A-Truck for the first time when you were 3. You loved it. Now, you're just big and almost 7. Where is my baby boy?

I love you Cole,

Mommy

Memorial Weekend

2011-06-04T17:54:00.000-07:00

Baby Cakes,

Tim came to town so while dad was off mountain biking, we went to the Boulder Creek Festival last Saturday. It was the first time I've ever been and it's HUGE! We had so much fun walking around, getting your face painted, playing with fake swords, eating cotton candy, helping a street performer in his act, riding a bull, and just enjoying each others company.

Then, we gave Grandma her Mother's Day present which was helping her clean out her flower beds. It was hard word but we all did it together and the time went by fast and again, just enjoying each others company.

On Sunday, we met Umple Derrick and Aunt Veronica for some park fun with the kids. After the park, we played in the fountain and even got an ice cream cone. I love Old Town Arvada and I love my brother and his family. AND again, just enjoying each others company.

Monday was a BBQ at Sofia's. Amazing food. It was fun hanging out enjoying each others company.

It was a great weekend filled with friends, family, and fun!

Love you,
Mommy

2nd Grade

2011-05-26T17:39:00.000-07:00

Darling,

Today was your last day of 1st grade. We celebrated with pizza, a movie, and dairy queen and of course your best friend, Sofia. I can't believe how fast you are growing up. I'm excited for:

Warm weather

Being outside

Riding bikes

Hiking

Swimming

Camping

Elitches

Go-Karts

Celebrating your 7th birthday

Pretty much I'm just excited for summer. Congrats on finishing 1st grade.

Hugs,

Mommy

Faking It

2011-05-26T17:36:00.000-07:00

Dear Cole,

Your friend Carson broke his arm a couple of weeks ago and on Saturday, you decided to have a broken arm too. You wore daddy's sling just about all day. While we were out and about you would say to me "No one is even saying anything about my arm." It was funny.

I love you.

Mommy

Working it

2011-05-22T08:03:00.001-07:00

Dear Cole,

You so know how to work me. Like, when you asked me to get the game from downstairs this morning, "I'll give you 10 kisses and 10 hugs" or like the other night when you were taking a bath, "will you please wash my hair?". My first thought is, you can wash your own hair, but then, half a second a later, I realize that soon enough, you won't be asking me for things like that. So, whenever you ask things like, "Will you please wash my hair" or "can we snuggle in your bed and read"....the answer should always be YES. You're getting growing up and fast.

We watched Justin Bieber's Never Say Never DVD. I've got Bieber Fever now....seriously. He is so cute. You remind me of him with your big eyes.

We're off to see the movie Soul Surfer. It's almost summer buddy. Four more days of school!

I love you so much.

Mommy

1st Grade

2011-05-10T20:24:00.000-07:00

Cole,

1st grade is almost over. You know school is almost out when field day is right around the corner. Here is your class picture. You'll laugh of these some days.

Mother's Day

2011-05-10T20:10:00.001-07:00

Dear Cole,
You and dad went the store while I was still sleeping and got some of my favorite things like biscuits, bacon, cookies...and you helped daddy make breakfast for me. You even made the scrambled eggs. Delivered hot and fresh to the bedroom on a silver platter (ok, on a cookie sheet, but same difference). Thanks for making my morning so special.

You made me the most wonderful gift. Dena took you and Sofia to Home Depot for a Kid's Build Workshop. You built a planter, picked out my favorite colors in paint, and you picked out just the right flowers you knew I loved and came home and painted the planter. You worked so hard at Sofia's house and I'm so proud of what you made for me. Thank you baby doll. It's so amazing and beautiful and it's sitting in the center of our dining room table.

Daddy rebuilt my computer and loaded some music on my ipod and it's AWESOME. Thanks Chris. Big hugs to both of you.

I love you,

Mommy

Michael Turns 7

2011-05-10T20:03:00.000-07:00

Happy 7th Birthday Michael. Thanks for inviting us to Boondocks. I can't believe you boys are already (and almost) 7. Where are our babies?!!!

Cole, Michael ended up getting hurt after we left. He got stitches near his eye because he got hit in the face with a golf club at Boondocks...(boys, you can't control them). You were so concerned about him the next day when you heard the news that you kept saying things like, "I hope Michael is ok." "Do you think Michael is ok?" "I wish I could see Michael to make sure he is ok." "I bet Michael eye really hurts."

Sweet darling. I love you.

Carnival

2011-05-10T19:57:00.000-07:00

Cole,

Emerald had it's annual carnival. We had a blast. You played games, won cupcakes at the Cake Walk, eat yummy food, and got your face painted.
See for yourself.....

Love you,

Mommy

Indoor Camp Out

2011-05-10T19:52:00.001-07:00

Dear Cole,

We were set to got to Ft. Collins to camp out the night before Katie's marathon. We had a camp site reserved and everything, but the weather didn't cooperate for us. So, instead of camping outdoors, we camped indoors. We set up the tent in your bedroom, made hot dogs, and even roasted marshmellows...by candlelight. They were pretty good too.

I love you monkey.
Mommy

EB

2011-05-10T19:37:00.000-07:00

Dear Cole,

The Easter Bunny came and dropped off a basket with cute bunny and Learn How To Draw book. You were soooo excited...You kept saying, "How did he know this is exactly what I wanted?" Hmmmm, good question.

We met Uncle Derrick and family over at Grandma's for an Easter Egg Hunt. We filled the eggs with coins and dollars. You guys were so cute. Look at this picture of you covering Eliana's eyes while we hid the eggs.

Grandma made all the kids bags with their names embroidered on them with fun stuff instead, like a new soft bunny and fun straw (which you immediately used when we got home to drink a glass of milk) .

Happy Easter family! Thanks for sharing your day with us.

37 or is it only 36

2011-05-10T19:19:00.001-07:00

Dear Cole,

I thought I was going to be 37 this year, but thanks to Aunt Veronica, I'm only 36. I called her and said something like, "So, how's it feel to be turning 32? (see I know these things because we're five years apart)" And she said, "I'm only turning 31, which means you're only turning 36!" YIPPEE for me. That conversation totally made my day.

We celebrated with Angel Food cake which grandma made (not shown in first picture....that's Aunt Veronica's deliciousness). Here is grandma's attempt...don't be fooled - looks aren't everything. I ate the whole cake BEFORE dinner....practically by myself. Although, grandma helped a little.

She brought over fried chicken, edamame, potato salad, and yummy cake, and beautiful balloons, and a gift certificate for a massage.

You and daddy got me a sweet pair of shades and two cases for protection. You guys call me "Hollywood" now. I absolutely love them. Big hugs.

Aunt Veronica and family couldn't come over cuz the kids were sick, but don't think we didn't eat that cake right up. We missed them though.

Sofia and Dena came over for cake and brought gorgeous tulips.

I felt very special. Thanks to all my family and friends for making my day so awesome with warm wishes, cards, gifts, and food. Here's to being only 36!

Hugs,

Mommy

Lunch visitor

2011-05-04T18:52:00.000-07:00

Dear Cole,
Daddy came to school today and ate with you in the cafeteria. You and your friends were so excited....I think daddy was too. You guys had pizza which probably wasn't right for daddy's stomach, but once he told you six weeks ago that he would be able to have lunch with you when you had pizza at school, you asked every week for six weeks. The schedule finally worked out.

I love darling. We've been up to a lot, I haven't gotten around to writing about Easter, camp out with Sofia, soccer....and I'm sure more once I look at the pictures on my camera waiting to be downloaded. Soon love.

Hugs,
Mommy

Port-a-Potty

2011-04-30T07:16:00.000-07:00

Dear Cole,

We were at soccer practice last week and I was sitting in the car staying warm. You rushed up to the door and in a very urgent and frantic voice said, "Mom, I have to go poop. I have to go poop and pee now." And you were doing the poop pee dance. I said, "ok, let's go over to the port-a-potty over there (pointing to the unit at the end of the field)." Instaneously, the urge to go to the bathroom subsided. You said very calmly and confident, "That's ok, I don't have to go anymore."

You pinched your cheeks the whole practice - it looked like agony and, honestly, I'm surprised but thankful that you didn't pee your pants. About 15 minutes left in practice, I couldn't take it anymore. I swooped you up and carried you to the portapotty. You said, "I'm not going in. Can I just pee by it? I don't want to go in." In the end you did end up going pee in the unit but there wasn't anyway you were going to sit on the seat to do number 2. You held onto that poo until we got in the car and then I thought you might (for real) poop your pants in my car.

Daddy always jokes that when people are speeding, it's because they have to take a poop. So, when we saw me haulin ass down our street, he told the neighbor - someone must have a code brown. So true darling. So true!

We made it....barely.

I love you monkey. You make me laugh!

Hugs,

Mommy

Sick

2011-04-18T18:18:00.000-07:00

Darling,
You are sick. The nurse called me at work and I came and got you. We snuggled in bed and watched Hood Winked, played on the ipad, read books, played board games. Mellow, relaxing stuff. You have a fever and sore throat and I hope you don't have strep.

Twice you said, "I'm sorry I interrupted your work day." Sweet pea. I told you, "If i could trade being sick with you, i would." I'd much rather be sick than watch you be sick. You're not good at being sick. You get bored too easily and you're restless. So, let's switch, okay?

I love you monkey and I'll always be here to take care of you,
Mommy

Art Show

2011-04-12T19:25:00.000-07:00

Dear Cole,

Your artwork was chosen to be displayed at the 2011 Boulder Valley Schools k-8 Art Show. The show was open March 5-April 3 at the Boulder Public Library. Tonight, you were honored at Emerald. You stood in front of your art and as people passed by, you told them about your piece. It was so awesome. Dad and I are super proud of you.

You've been learning about impressionism and Monet. You describe your bridge piece like this:

So, you know Monet. Ok, well, Monet didn't use black or shadowing. He didn't go swish swash swish swash when he painted. He used a lot of little tiny dots, which I've included. The sun is shining, reflecting on the water, and bouncing back to the underneath of the bridge.

Well done darling. Well done.

2011-04-10T19:19:00.000-07:00

Dear Cole,

Yesterday, Dena explained a rising situation. It goes like this - she is going to North Carolina for work in July and Cesar and Sofia will join her. They will be gone 5 to 6 months. Half of summer. All of fall. I already miss them. I don't want them to go. I'm sad that you and Fia won't be able to play and have sleep overs and watch movies and eat dinner together. We'll have to set you two up on Skype. It makes me sad so I'm not going to think about it. Sofia is your best friend. She can't go. She just can't.

Pirate Party

2011-04-10T18:58:00.000-07:00

Dear Cole,

Eliana turned 4, Parker turned 2, and Aunt V turned 31! They celebrated by throwing a Pirate Party. You went as Jack Sparrow...I didn't get a picture of you with your full costume, but here was a few days before. Look how big you are. You had great fun playing with the other kids in the Pirate Jumpy. Uncle Gabe showed up as a 'big' Pirate! It was cool.

Spring Break: Day 6 - Coming Home

2011-03-25T08:34:00.000-07:00

Dear Cole,

We got up super early to make our flight, but after some mechnical problems, they ended up canceling it all together. We had to wait at the airport another four hours to leave. You were so good though it all. Actually, you were so good on vacation. I'm proud of you. We had so much at Disneyland, Legoland, the beach, movies, etc. I was able to capture the classic "dad and son playing in the ocean" video. I love you so much.

Spring Break: Day 5

2011-03-23T17:09:00.000-07:00

This morning was gorgeous! We ate breakfast at the cottage and then walked to the pier. We saw a surf competition and at the very end of the pier we saw a school of dolphins. We saw 7 of them and it was amazing. After that, we hung out at the beach for a few hours. It was so much fun to watch you play and dig and get buried in the sand by dad. We headed out before the rain the came and took a long nap after lunch. You and dad built your Lego car that you got yesterday. It's been a great vacation.

Spring Break: Day 4 - Legoland

2011-03-23T08:38:00.000-07:00

LEGOLAND. This place is cool. Here is what you wrote in your school journal:

"Yesterday, I ate brefis. Aft that I wit to lagelead. I wit to the volvo. It wos mad fun. I wit to lego technic costr. Las Vegas, New York, San Francisco, Washington, DC, New Orleans ot fo logos."

Miniland USA: We saw New Orleans, San Francisco, NYC, Las Vegas, Sydney - all made out of legos. It's so freakin cool.

Spring Break: Day 3 - Disneyland

2011-03-23T08:37:00.001-07:00

DISNEYLAND. We all survived the 9 hour adventure, plus more rain....and had a GREAT time. You went on Pirates of the Caribbean, Winnie the Pooh, the Matterhorn, It's a Small World, Space Mountain, Autopia, Finding Nemo Submarine, Goofy's Playhouse, Mickey's House.
Here is our day in pictures.

Spring Break: Day 2 - RAIN

2011-03-23T08:20:00.000-07:00

Cole,

It rained ALL day here. After breakfast at the Sugar Shack, we took a drive up the PCH, ate lunch at In-n-Out burger, and found a movie theater where we saw Mars Needs Moms. After that, we grabbed some groceries and headed back to our cottage. Overall, an uneventful but very relaxing day. Tomorrow is Disneyland....

Spring Break: Day 1 - Huntington Beach, CA

2011-03-20T07:48:00.000-07:00

Dear Cole,

We made it to Huntington Beach, CA. You were awesome on the plane but got a little sick towards the end. We picked up our rental car and made our way to our little rented house a block away from the beach. We dropped off our stuff and took a stroll to find some grub. We found this place called Fred's. Food was good and you even got to play pool with dad. After dinner, we walked to the pier. It was chilly.

Back at the house - you took a bubble bath in the best bathtub EVER. Your room has it's own TV and you think it's the coolest thing ever. We let you watch TV in your room and you ended up falling asleep. Precious.

Lots more fun to be had although today it's rainy.

Love you,

Mama

Sleep Over

2011-03-08T19:31:00.000-08:00

Dear Cole,

We had a great weekend. As a family, we met up with Umple Joe and Michael and saw Rango. It was awesome! Then we had lunch at 3 margarita's. You HATE mexican food. Thanks for being a trooper. After lunch we had naptime and then it was time for your sleep over at Sofia's. You guys went to see Gnomeo and Juliet and had pizza for dinner. Thanks Cesar and Dena for being the best neighbors ever....and to Sofia for being Cole's BFF.

Mom and Dad had a date night to celebrate 8 years. We went to Rodizo Grill and went to see The Adjustment Bureau. Our bellies were fuuuulllllll!

Besides two back to back 12 mile runs, I also went snowboarding with Rach on Sunday. Super fun and super tiring weekend.

Trip and Tiffani are going to be here this weekend. More fun to be had....

Love you baby.
Mommy

Beat the Beast

2011-03-03T16:51:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,

On March 26, 2011, I will be taking part in a 6 hour run in Moab, Utah called the 6 Hour Nighttime Fun Run. Our team “Beat the Beast” has decided to run the race in honor of Jeff Erlacher and his battle against cancer or the BEAST. Jeff was recently diagnosed with Sarcoma and we thought this would be a good way to keep him and his family encouraged.

Each member on our team will meet their internal “beast” around hour 4 of the run, making us think we are tired and sore and telling us we should stop. But, just like Jeff, we will remember to take it one step at a time during such a challenging endeavor.

To learn more about Jeff, follow his journey or to make a donation, please visit: http://unasolaarena.wordpress.com/.

Happy 8th

2011-03-02T19:16:00.000-08:00

8 years ago yesterday, we were in the Virgin Islands getting married and honeymooning.

I remember it like yesterday. Let's go back!

Happy Anniversary Chris! I love you!

Dinner with the Pope's

2011-02-28T19:02:00.001-08:00

Dear Cole,

Last night Uncle Derrick and family came over. Dad cooked up a yummy batch of spaghetti, with hot sausages and super slow simmered sauce. It was deliciouso! We finished off with some brownies with strawberries and whipped cream.

You actually played with Eliana and at one point were climbing over the back of the couch and Eliana was trying to copy you. A conversation went something like this:

Aunt V: Elle, please don't do that.
Cole to Elle: it's ok, you can do it when she isn't looking.

Way to teach your cousin the ropes.

Thanks for the company guys. We love you bunches.

The Old Days

2011-02-22T19:08:00.000-08:00

Dear Cole,
Daddy is in Virginia working this week. It's just you and me buddy. Tonight, after we finished reading and we were cuddling, I asked you what was the first memory you have. You said it was being at the zoo and peeing in the bushes. I remember that too. Then you took over.

cole: Do you remember what house you grew up in?
me: yes, I grew up in the house that Grandma lives in.
cole: was it in black and white or color?
me: not sure what you mean.
cole: you know, was it back in the old days, like black and white [photos]?
me: I'm not that old Cole. You think I look like I'm a 100 years old?
cole: you do look like an old lady.

Then, I had to tickle you because we have the best conversations. And after you're sound asleep, I grew sad because one of my first memories was when I was probably 5 and it saddens me to know that you won't remember most of our first six years together when you are old like me. We have just had so many wonderful times and watching you grew up and try new things and learn so much ---makes me proud and sad at the same time. I hope this blog and your photo books show you how happy we were...how happy we are.

I love you.
Mom

Skate City

2011-02-20T15:58:00.001-08:00

Darling,

Somehow the permission slip for Skate City never made it home so I promised to take you the next day. Here is our day in pictures. Cesar, Sofia and Daddy came too. It was so much fun.

Because I care about people

2011-02-20T15:16:00.001-08:00

Dear Cole,
Last week after we got home from school and work, you and I took Estes for a walk. I asked how lunch was because it was pizza day. When school makes pizza for lunch, you don't bring your own. It's one of a few offerings you like. Anyhow, Daddy loves school pizza and he was telling you during breakfast how much he loves school pizza and that you should bring him home a piece - BUT I didn't hear this conversation.

Back to our walk.

me: How was lunch?
cole: AWE, it was sooo good. I got seconds, but I didn't eat the second piece. I wrapped it in tinfoil and saved it for Dad.
me: (heart full of happiness because that is just so thoughtful): That is so thoughtful Cole.
cole: It's because I care about people. I know how much Dad loves school pizza so I wanted to bring him home a piece. It's nice to think about other people.
me: Where is the pizza?
cole: In my backpack.

Then we continued talking about doing things and giving things to people, about not being selfish all the time, and about how he "cares about people".

We finished our hike and I checked your backpack. No pizza!

me: Cole, I don't see the pizza. Are you sure you brought a pizza home?
cole: I must have been mistaken.

So, there you have it. It's the thought that counts I guess.

Love you baby,
mommy

p.s. Funny comment after three hours of playing Halo with Daddy.
me: Cole, why are your eyes so red?
cole: Because I didn't blinked at all today.

ValentiMe's

2011-02-14T19:33:00.001-08:00

Dear Cole,

Happy Valentime's Day. That's not a spelling mistaken. You actually say Val-en-times. It's so freakin cute. I made cupcakes for your class and a special heart cake for you. I surprised you with it this morning. Daddy made you lunch and drew a funny face on wrapping to your ding dong and I made you a homemade card. You brought both up while you sitting on the pot tonight and you said, "that face was so cute on my ding dong" and I pointed to your dad because he drew it and you said "he is so special." Awwwww! My sweet baby.

Daddy made his stuffed chicken breasts for dinner. We had twice baked potatoes, asparagus, & champagne. You even toasted and had a shot of champagne with us. We only eat this meal once a year on Valentines Day and it is just so delicious. Thanks for making it with love Daddy. You made this dinner 9 years ago on Valentine's when we first started going out. Awwwww! How romantic.

Sofia brought you a present and a card last night and invited you over for dinner. It was really sweet. Then you made her a card took it over to her tonight and it read:

Valentine Valentine
Won't you be my Valentine
Please be my Valentine
Alright

So, that pretty much sums up our Valentine's Day. Oh, and how cute is the shirt Grandma made you? It says Be My Valentine and then under the girl is says Gma and under the boy it says Cole. Shari, our neighbor, even brought over some treats for us. So thoughtful.

We all love you lots and lots and lots.

XOXO,
Mommy

p.s. you said something funny the other day - Estes was playing around with you and I was in the bathroom getting ready and i heard you say, "She's nibbling my balls!" It was really funny.

Smarties

2011-02-12T15:53:00.000-08:00

Dear Cole,

Lets talk about Parent Teacher Conference. But first, we have to go back to October conferences when you were still learning what it meant to behave like a 1st grader, how great your reading was, but how much focus and listening were a problem for you. How hard it was for me to hear these things but how I knew them to be true. Daddy made sure to tell your teacher that it's important to challenge you because boredom is an enemy and make the brightest students seem unruly.

OK, fast forward four months. You've learned what it means to behave like a 1st grader, you are on the fast track with reading, progressing by leaps and bounds, your work with math and numbers and patterns comes easy, and Mrs.O'hara can see glimpses of when you push your skills and knowledge to the absolute max. I wanted to cry in October because I knew you could be more and I wanted to cry last week because I knew you were proving you could be more. She has recommended you for the Gifted and Talented program at Emerald and Daddy and I talked to you about it and you agreed that you'd like to be in the program too. We are so proud of you darling. I mean, center-of-our-soul proud.

Next up, Valentine's Day - you celebrated yesterday at school with a sandwich making party and exchanged cards with your classmates. You made homemade cards - they were awesome; butterflies for the girls and aliens for the boys. The day left you exhausted and you were sound asleep by 6:30.

This morning, you crawled in the bed with me as I woke up and Daddy joined us and we just laid around, giving kisses and hugs, petting Estes, being goofy, and snuggling. It was all ruined after about half an hour when Estes farted and we all fled.

Today, after we went to see Gnomeo and Juliet and run errands with Daddy, you worked on clearing the gutters for the majority of the block so the water could flow to the drains. It was back breaking work, lifting those heavy pieces of ice, but you did it for nearly 2 hours. After a hot bath and some food, you've just been relaxing.

At the movies today, the showtime we wanted was sold out, so we were offered one 10-minutes later with the caveat that it was a special showing for kids with autism so it would be a little different experience. Before we went in, I explained what autism was by talking about your classmate Dakota and that the theater wouldn't be as dark and the movie not as loud as we are use to and that kids may be talking and walking around. You were great....and they were great.

I'm just so proud of the little person you are - your character, your wit, your love, your smarts.

Big hugs,

Mommy

Pacing and ice cream

2011-02-08T17:30:00.000-08:00

Cole,
Tonight you went to dinner with Sofia, Cesar, and Dena. I didn't know what to do with myself. After pacing around for a bit I decided to run to the store to get milk and then I made my way to dairy queen. Really? It's zero degrees outside and I'm going to eat ice cream? Yep. That's exactly what I did.

Then I came home, ate it and paced some more before deciding to pick up the house bit. It's too quiet without you. I miss you. Come home so we can argue about getting ready for bed. Mostly, come home so I can snuggle and cuddle with you and read a book together.

I love you,
Mommy

Car ride and deep thoughts

2011-02-05T12:41:00.000-08:00

On the way to Grandma's yesterday morning:

mom - "Cole, what's wrong? You seem sad."
cole - "Well, it's just that I miss my fish. You remember Shrek?" (now BIG tears coming down his face
mom- "of course I do. What made you think of Shrek?"
cole - "I was thinking about the movie and then I just thought about my fish."
mom - "do you remember what color he was?"
cole - "gold?"
mom - "purple."
cole - "who gave him to me?"
mom - "remember Mark and Sue? They gave him to you for your second birthday. He lived for two years. Dad cleaned the tank and you fed him. He was a good fish."
cole - "it's just that I miss him." (still big, sad tears)
mom- "Well, it's ok to be sad. Even though he's gone, he still lives in your heart."
cole - "I've lost three things in my life - Shrek, Soft Bunny, and Nilla."
cole - "I keep them alive in my heart."
mom - "not bad for being almost 7."

cole - "how will I find you heaven?" //now, I'm about ready to cry//
mom - "they have a front desk. you just ask for me and they will tell where to go."
cole - "can you find anyone that way?"
mom- "yep and when I get to heaven, I'm going to ask for my grandpa, Virgil."
cole - "I don't want you to die."
mom - "I don't want to die yet either."
cole - "what I am suppose to do when you die. you're my family, we're suppose to stay together."
mom - "well, hopefully I'll die when I'm old and you will be all grown up and have a life of your own."
cole - "But I will miss you."
cole - "will we have our hotel room in heaven?"
mom - "yep. we'll have our hotel room in heaven."

cole - "I don't want to talk about death anymore."
mom - "I agree."
cole - "I know I brought it up and all."

You are my sweet angel.

You were a snuggle bug with grandma which is so special to her. You two played cards and games and watched a movie while I went for a long run. Then we all went to the store and out for lunch. It was nice spending time with grandma. Since the weather was bad, we didn't end up going to Nederland, instead we started your valentine card project and watched a movie together. Then, we snuggled and giggled ourselves to sleep.

Goodnight darling,
Mommy

Sink

2011-02-04T18:27:00.001-08:00

You've always loved playing in the sink. Last night, you asked if you could play in the sink with the dishes and some soap. It was cute to watch you wash the dishes and I think you asked me if I wanted a bite of your bubble chili. Yummy!

Today, I saw a movie called Biutiful and I was so touched by the man's love for his children. He was dying but he didn't want to leave them. I thought of you many times during the movie and how much love I have for you, how I can't imagine ever leaving you. I love you so much. Thank you for being my son.

I just laid you down for sleep and you gave me 50 kisses. Pure sweetness.

Good Night,

Mommy

School Closed

2011-02-02T16:03:00.000-08:00

Darling,
School was closed yesterday and today because of the cold temperatures. We had adventures in my office yesterday. You love putting in the secret combination to get in the building and then using the secret card key to open the doors. You watched a movie while I was in a very long meeting. At some point, you visited with Nick and somehow made your way out with a yo yo and his plastic gun with darts. I taught you to stand on a chair to yo yo so that the string had room to drop. You practiced a lot yesterday and mastered it. You are now officially a yo yo'er. What else did you do? You helped Daniel with a real work project, interviewed Terre on camera while I tested out our new studio equipment, signed an important document, played hangman with Terre, scored some candy from Whitney and Vikki, and well, for the most part were pretty good....for a six year old.

So, when we heard school was canceled again for today, we invite Fia over for a slumber party. You guys must have been tired because you didn't do the usual late night chatting. In the morning, Cesar took you to the Childrens Museum where you were gone most of the day. Awesome for me because I put in six solid hours of work which was desperately needed.

We survived two canceled days of school and now we're almost ready for the weekend. I need to schedule some playdates...Umple Joe - here we come.

Love you baby doll,
Mama

Hiking: Devils Backbone

2011-01-30T19:27:00.001-08:00

My darling Cole,
Today we went for a family hike out near Loveland at a place called Devils Backbone. We made it to the keyhole for some great views. You didn't complain too much, especially once we started to play spies and throw grenades (aka rocks) into the tall grass where the evil scrogers were hanging out.
Then we had lunch at Sonic, played video games with dad while I finished the movie The Girl Who Kicked the Hornets Nest. Then you and I went to the library and checked out 14 books all for you. WOW! After we got home Sofia came over and you guys played until dinner was ready. After dinner, we went over to Uncle Derrick's house to visit with Gramie while she babysat the kids. Then, it was back home and off to sleep. Geez, it was a busy weekend.

I love you baby boy. Sweet dreams.
Mommy

Busy

2011-01-30T19:10:00.000-08:00

Dear Cole,
I'll catch you up from the last couple of days. Thursday G-ma came over for dinner. It was so nice having her over. Friday, we celebrated the end of a long week by having dinner at Ted's. Yummy!

Saturday, I ran a 12-miler, you played Halo with daddy, then it was errands with me. We hit the gas station, car wash, cleaners, yummy lunch at Bean & Berry, Old Navy, the candy store, grocery shopping and finally, Baskin Robbins for build-your-own-sundae.

When we got home, it was bike riding, baseball, quite time movie time, dinner, and finally sleep. It was a gorgeous day out and we made good use of it.

Thanks for hanging out with me.

I love you,
Mommy

How may I help you?

2011-01-27T18:45:00.000-08:00

Dear Cole,

We cleaned out one of the closets downstairs and you wanted to keep all sorts of things we were getting rid of like a book called "How to deal with NASTY people", old credit cards that you put in your wallet, and this headset. You wore this thing ALL day long, even while watching TV or reading or eating. You thought it was the coolest thing ever.

It reminded me of when I was little and thought that about my mom's stuff. Or like the time Uncle Derrick and I got caught stealing office supplies from my dad's office. What in the world did we want or need with a stapler and other like items at the age of 8? Fascinated by new things that really had no applicability or use to use but were somehow the most intriguing things ever.

Last week when we got home from school, you asked if you could wear a costume and so you were Ironman all night. Speaking of super heros, daddy took you to see the Green Hornet while I was in San Francisco. You guys also made an incredible carousel with your Kinetics.

At school, you've been working on writing letters, actual letters, one of my favorite things ever. You wrote me this note:

Drire Mom,
I miss you. I wot to kom with you. I love you. XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOX.
Love,
Cole

Or how about this one:
I no that you are a lover to me and you are so sweeat you always say that you are gonna eat my cheeks.

You packed me off for my trip to New Orleans with a special note that I could only open at the airport. It read "I love you mommy" and you had a plastic heart attached to it.

I love you my darling. I'm looking forward to spending a lot of time with you this weekend. I've missed you.

By the way, thank you for surprising me by getting my toothbrush ready twice this week. My sweet boy.

Goodnight,
Mommy

Mornings

2011-01-13T07:01:00.000-08:00

Dear Cole,
There are some mornings, when things just don't go smoothly. It usually happens the instant you wake up. We all have days like that and boy, are they challenging.

But this morning, you were an angel. No arguing, no pouting, no asking three or four times for you to do something. You were just heavenly. Because I'm leaving for New Orleans today and had extra time this morning, we decided to walk to school. But it wasn't any walk. We pretended that we were hikers, high up in the mountains, dodging crevasses, and sliding on ice. You kept calling me "friend". You'd say "be careful friend." The school was the top of the mountain. We reached our destination, gave awesome hugs and kisses.

Before we parted ways, you reminded me that you left something special in my backpack for my trip and told me to look for it when I got to the airport. You are so sweet. Have fun with daddy this weekend.

Hugs,
Mommy

The Simple Life

2011-01-11T17:55:00.000-08:00

Dear Cole,

Happy New Year! I just wanted to write and tell you thank you. Thank you for helping me be silly and goofy. You love being goofy and silly. Sometimes after a long day at work, it's hard to switch gears from being so serious and stressed to being silly and goofy.

Life is simple right now. You love to spend time with me and daddy. After I get over my serious self, we play sheriff and robber - having shootouts down the hall and capturing the robber and putting him in jail. Or how about hide-n-seek! Simply a favorite of yours. Or board games or cards. Or chase...you never get tired of playing chase. Or how about tickle...you love to play tickle and we just laugh and laugh. I love to hear you laugh.

It's hard to play sometimes because it takes some effort, energy, and imagination but it's good for my soul. I need it. To see you smile and giggle and be happy is precious. Tonight, we had a carpet picnic where we ate hot dogs and spicy fries and watched Spongebob. Thanks for hanging out with me. I love you so much. Thanks for being such an awesome 6 year old.

As I tucked you in bed tonight you said,"The first thing I like about you is your smile. The second thing is your singing." That was of course after you read me a book and I sang you a lullaby.

Good night darling. I love you.
Mommy

2010 Movies

2010-12-31T13:37:00.000-08:00

Cole,

Here are most of the movies you saw in the theater this year:

The Spy Next Door
The Tooth Fairy
Percy Jackson and The Olympians
Alice In Wonderland
Diary of a Wimpy Kid
How to Train your Dragon
Furry Vengence
Marmaduke
Alpha & Omega
Iron Man 2
Clash of the Titans
Shrek Forever After
The Karate Kid
Toy Story 3
The Last Airbender
Despicable Me
Cats & Dogs: The Revenge of Kitty Galore
Nanny McPhee Returns
Guardians of GaHoole
MegaMind
Tangled
The Chronicles of Narnia
Yogi Bear

I might have missed acouple. We saw Chronicles of Narnia with Uncle Joe and Michael a few weekends ago and after we got out of the movie, there was a table set up to build the Narnia ship, Dawn Treader. Here are some shots.

Love you baby,
Mommy

Christmas 2010

2010-12-31T13:17:00.000-08:00

Dear Cole,

Wow! What a Christmas! We got a box full of games from Grandpa Jack and Grandma Carol that kept us occupied. You got a PaperJams guitar and amp from Santa that you played and filled our house with music. You got a Ball Wizard kit (you make your own bouncy balls....and it WORKED) from Grandma that I'm going to say was your favorite gift followed by your Snake Eyes mask and sword. You got a couple new hats which you look AWESOME in. And about a million other toys. We had fun watching you go through your stocking and opening your presents. Mom and Dad didn't make out to bad either. Thanks CV for all my "perfect" gifts.

But most of all, thank you for our family. It is the most precious gift of all.

Christmas Eve 2010

2010-12-31T12:38:00.000-08:00

We had a very Merry Christmas Eve with Grandma and Grandma, Uncle Derrick, Aunt Veronica, Eliana and Parker. Grandma and Grandpa made yummy beef stroganoff. I ate too much. We opened presents and then we headed outside to put some food down for the reindeer. Next, was some family snapshots and then we loaded up and walked down to Aunt Donna's house for some delicious desserts and a visit from Santa.

Putting some magical oats out for the reindeer. Visit from Santa Nice Cole...any idea what he was so excited out?

Thanks for all the great food and gifts and company.

Life

2010-12-11T19:21:00.000-08:00

Dear World,

Well, I've finally caught up on some blogging. The past seven weeks have been challenging, both personally and professionally. I have been struggling with finding clarity, balance, motivation and at the same time trying to be resilient and let things go. It's been a struggle and well, when life gets you down, it's sometimes hard to be happy.

These are the times that allow us to grow, to develop, to become more. So, I'll embrace it, even though it's hard as hell and I'll most likely cry some more tears. But, my happy blog lives. It's my place to see how beautiful and wonderful life is and all the people in it....all the people in my world.

Be thankful for the little things, everyday. They keep people going. Last weekend Cole called out from his bed in the morning "Mom? Can I come snuggle with you?" Who could ever resist. He climbed in, his body warm and soft and wrapped himself around me like a cocoon. It was a sweet moment that I've taken myself back to several times this week.

I'm going to practice what a wise woman once told me - "Rest in the unknown". It's hard to find peace in that, but I'm going to try.

Good night,

Gilpin Cty Fair x 6

2010-12-11T19:03:00.000-08:00

We decorated the house right after Thanksgiving. All the gifts have been bought and most I've already wrapped. We're definitely ready for Christmas. But, nothing beats our holiday tradition of going to the Gilpin County Holiday Fair with Rachel, Sierre, and Ryder.

This was our 6th year watching the kids get their face painted, sitting on Santa's lap, decorating cookies, and making hand prints. They were even excited to look at the craft fair this year - they stopped by every booth, curious to see what had been made and even get some samples of yummy treats.

Here's to traditions! See our day in pictures.