Eden's Heart

The big 2!

2011-12-28T20:43:00.000-08:00

Dear August,

You are two years old. Two. TWO! Incredible.

Every day leading up to today has honestly been a blessing, a gift. Of course, there were moments, fleeting moments of frustration and grief, but it was probably (honestly) just shock. Shock that your lungs were strong enough to yell so loud. Shock that you had enough strength to hit and kick. Shock that you had the energy to say no. As much as I hate comparing you to your sister, in the days leading up to her second birthday, there was no way she could have ever done half of the things you can. In fact, the day after she turned two we were in the hospital learning that she would need a heart transplant. Needless to say, your second birthday was such a breeze. You are the gift of normal.

You are quite the daredevil, not fearless, but close. You ride this Radio Flyer bumper car through the house so fast that we should call you August Andretti. You can easily jump from our ottoman to the sofa and like to ride the arms of our furniture like a horse. You throw over-handed, kick a ball with ease, and turn any stick into a bat (or sword). You are a wonderful climber and we often find you on top of a structure before we've had a chance to even "spot" you. The down side of this great strength and agility is your new found love of getting out of your crib... unfortunately for us, your maturity level has not yet caught up with your physical abilities. And although I may have to force my allotted quota of hugs and kisses everyday, you are the gift of energy (and testosterone :).

Your favorite things are many... balls, cars, trucks, and trains of course. You love helping me cook (you say, "I cook! I cook!") or pretending in the playroom. You love playing in the car, to a fault! The minute you are unstrapped, you jump out of your car seat and jet away. You have a kicking/screaming fit when we finally pull you out. YOU. LOVE. BABIES. Baby humans, baby animals, baby dolls, even baby sized things - like presents or food bites. You love Super Why, the show on PBS and you think you like to play his game on our phones (but you're just pushing buttons). Speaking of pushing buttons, you love electronics - our computers, phones, you name it (it's all about the buttons, really). You LOVE to be outside. I don't think your body is capable of feeling the temperature if you're outside playing, digging, scooting, etc. You love music, dancing, and especially singing. You wave your hands in the air above your head like a conductor and belt out a melody that only you can understand. You love milk (in a certain sippy cup) "milky" and a pacifier. These are your essential bedtime comforts and I dread the day (SOON!) that we force you to give them up.

Your greatest love, however, is your family. You love us so deeply that you can hardly breathe without one of us by your side! Your case of separation anxiety is even worse than your sister... although, I tend to tell others that you are just "slow to warm up", it sounds better. As a result, I am your constant companion; mostly needed for all things emotional. I kiss the oweys - I hold you when you're sick - I get your needs met. Your dad, of course, is the fun guy and since you don't see him as often, you soak up every second you can with him. You love to work with him in the garage, wrestle in front of the TV, or sit on his lap at the computer. All other times of the day, you are your sister's shadow. She is incredibly patient and usually adores her play time with you. You have found your way into her imaginary world. Lucky you. You are the gift of companionship.

Even though I have regretted your birthday (for your sake) falling so close to Christmas, it is so obvious why you were due on Christmas day and born on the winter solstice. On the darkest day of the year, you brought light and hope into this family and in more ways than one, you were the gift we needed.

Happy Birthday

From our family to yours...

2011-12-25T03:33:00.000-08:00

Making our list and checking it twice!

2011-12-22T20:37:00.000-08:00

Our traditional, day-after-Thanksgiving, ginger bread house

Advent calendar: holiday books for everyday

(Heart) Tree decorated completely around the bottom

Eden's letter to Santa

August's (not so) favorite Christmas tradition

Eden's school holiday program
(BY FAR, my favorite moment of this season)

Christmas cookie tasting, I mean, decorating

Eden at the Colorado Symphany's Christmas Concert

Zoo Lights

Matching Christmas Jammies

This girl...

2011-12-17T07:00:00.000-08:00

...turns seven today!

Lucky for us, she celebrated early with a "cousins" birthday trip to the zoo.

We had the place to ourselves and a personal zoo keeper to show us around.

The main event: Feeding the bears!

What a thrill for these kids (and the big kids too!)

Zach's favorite part was petting the snakes...

... while Eden just basked in the time with her cousins.

Thanks for sharing your day with us, even if it was 3 weeks early.

Happy Birthday, Campbell!
We love you so much!

Food friends

2011-12-10T07:00:00.001-08:00

Even though August is the kid cook in our family, Eden is definitely interested in making it look pretty. Here are some of her recent creations:

Oliver, the pizza

Mickey Mouse and Peace Pancakes

and Rainbow Bright.

Mom, did you know that we are supposed to eat a rainbow everyday?!

Change

2011-12-09T07:00:00.000-08:00

In what seemed like the blink of an eye, we went from this:

To this:

...and my two little snow balls are loving it!

Thankful

2011-11-11T12:24:00.000-08:00

It is no secret that Eden's favorite holiday is Thanksgiving. She will tell anyone who asks. In fact, she gets especially perturbed by early Christmas decorating and feels as though there aren't enough Thanksgiving celebrations and decor options. It's pretty funny, and although I laugh about it, I'm internally proud that she chooses gratitude over costumes and presents.

As we were driving home from playgroup one day, she wanted to tell me about her "thankful art", as she called it. I am driving, so she describes the turkey she made and says that she wrote all of the things she is thankful for on each feather. As she reads them to me, she says, "I'm thankful for August (written completely backwards), Mimi, Chaco, Grammy, Pops, the cruise, and most of all, I'm thankful for myself." :)

That's right, Eden Raine, I am most thankful for YOU too!

August was pretty proud of his thankful art too!

Halloween

2011-11-02T10:10:00.000-07:00

Although it seems like forever ago... I think we left off at Halloween!

We started by (temporarily) painting our front door orange, because what's says "Halloween" better than a Jack-o-lantern door?!

Eden decided to be SCARRY this year (then told everyone she was a nice witch). She would have preferred August dress up as her black cat side-kick, but we settled on a pet dragon instead.

Cousin Zach, I mean, Jack Sparrow joined us this year, too. He got the award for "most polite trick-or-treater" (especially for a pirate)!

A dad's job on Halloween is to supervise...
otherwise know as: drink beer and pass out candy.

...and set the table for the return of hungry trick-or-treaters.

Waiting...

2011-11-01T18:31:00.000-07:00

Have you been waiting for another post?

(Well, check back often because they'll be coming in fast!)

Between Snow Storms...

2011-10-30T21:58:00.000-07:00

...we take advantage of the park!

August obviously didn't get enough climbing!

Life Lately

2011-10-23T21:45:00.000-07:00

Eden is still loving school... when she is able to go. She has missed some days due to illness, funerals and weddings, but is quickly learning Spanish and is HAPPY!

August is missing his playmate and cuddle buddy, but also enjoying some one-on-one with mom. He has a ton of energy and is into everything!

Eden's interest in art is growing. Here, she is making her very own wrapping paper (her idea).

And August loves trains... well, anything with wheels. He especially loves playtime outside. The fast-approaching winter is going to be quite the shocker for this little guy!

We are still pulling veggies from the mini-garden. The zucchini went out of control and we have several more pumpkins waiting to be plucked.

In the last few weeks before the cold, Eden has taken to kite flying. She was equally shocked and excited about how easy this activity could be for her.

And we finally fit in a back yard movie (soooo much fun)... which included blankets, pillows, hot chocolate and popcorn... and left us wondering why we didn't do this every weekend while it was still warm!

Sadly, the weather report is calling for snow by Wednesday. BOOOO!

The Last Hoorah Summer

2011-09-28T13:25:00.000-07:00

It is true that I have been on a blog break. And although I hate the "busy life" excuse, it may be all that I can come up with for now. As I look back on our summer, I am so excited for all that our children were able to see and do. We were truly blessed with great friends and family to visit, a granted wish to fulfill, and a three year heart birthday to celebrate. We had no problems knocking off each and every item on Eden's 2011 Summer Fun List! However, my only regret is not allowing enough time for the lazy summer activities. Did Eden get enough time to just lay in the grass and pick out figures in the clouds? Was there enough monkey bar hanging and big bubble blowing? I hope so... I hope she can look back on these years of her life with fondness... not just fitting in all the activities, but enjoying them too.

This summer was a whirlwind. It opened it's great big mouth and swallowed us whole. We went to eight states, five lakes, and two countries. We traveled by train, plane, boat and bus. We were reunited with our old dog, celebrated unions and said goodbye to ailing loved ones. We slept under the stars, walked on top of mountains and felt the sand between our toes. We spoke a new language, tried foreign food, and pushed our courage to it's limit.

This year we did not do a Last Hoorah Week before school started, we did a Last Hoorah Summer! The icing on the cake has definitely been the easy transition that Eden has made to Kindergarten. Although, she did say to me recently as we were driving to school one morning, "Mom, is this my life now, school and home and school and home?" I guess that's the down side to providing a Last Hoorah Summer... it makes real life seem pretty boring.

(Pirate Hearrrt Party)

(Back-to-School Dinner)

The Kindergartener

2011-08-22T11:02:00.000-07:00

Dear Eden,

Today you are almost five and a half years old. You just celebrated your third anniversary with your new heart. And you are officially a Kindergartener. Since you have a history of separation anxiety and a mild hatred of anything school related (i.e. crying for pretty much an entire year of Montessori pre-school drop off), we were a bit concerned about how you were going to do. Last year, before starting back to pre-school, we made a big deal out of your return. Everyday during that last week of summer, we did something special that would prepare you for another year of school - like clothes shopping, making a summer album, even a fancy back-to-school dinner. And long story short, it didn't work. You. Were. Devastated. Fast forward a year of happier, shorter days, with affectionate Catholic School teachers and you improved. More than improved, you thrived. However, we were still nervous as to how you would do with Kindergarten because we learned a little something about you in that 2 year process. You don't do well with change and you take a while to warm up to new situations... sometimes, a long while... look at your transition from womb to Earth! Not good. So when the opportunity came up for you to go to a language immersion school we knew it was a bad idea. Why on earth would we change your school, once you were finally adjusted, comfortable, and dare I say... happy?? And to top it off, you wouldn't know a soul and they wouldn't speak your language. Well, your dad and I met in Bolivia and have always dreamt of passing on our love for the Spanish language to you and your brother. So after much thought and research, we did what any good parent does... we threw you to the wolves (with your best interest in mind, of course).

And to our surprise... to our greatest amazement... YOU'VE DONE AWESOME! I may be overlooking the first day where you cried and refused to eat, but since then, seriously, you have rocked Kindergarten! What you don't know (until I give you all of these letters in a book someday) is that I have cried everyday. Yep. August and I watch as your dad walks you in that big building with your adorable uniform and enormous backpack... and I cry like a baby. Even though you are so much bigger, stronger and brighter than we ever expected you could be, this is the baby I have sent off to Kindergarten:

Eden Raine Murphy, 1 day old.

You are my miracle.
You are my daily gift.
You are my Kindergartener.

Summer Fun List

2011-06-30T20:40:00.000-07:00

If you know Eden, you know she is a planner. She likes to be aware of every step of every day. We talk about it over breakfast. We review at lunch time. And then we rehash everything we did as she gets tucked into bed. If you ask her about her day/week/weekend... be prepared for the entire play by play. So, when we started talking about this Summer her mind began to spin. I finally decided that she needed a list. (And if you know me... I'm a list maker!) A go-to list. Only fun stuff. Here it is.

And here's how we've gotten started.

Four weeks down and only six more until Kindergarten!
(P.S. My child is going to Kindergarten! Yikes!)

We are busy, checking stuff off our list, and making every second count!

Happy Father's Day

2011-06-21T20:15:00.000-07:00

We had a French Toast Kabob, Afternoon Ball Game, Evening Picnic with friends kind of day. We mixed in a nap and a few tantrums, then topped it off with some wine and jazz.

Although we weren't able to spend the day with our own fathers we spent some time remembering those men who held the backs of our bike seats (me), and pulled out our loose teeth with pliers (me), let us steer the green pick-up truck (Brian), and shared donuts after the Sunday morning paper route (Brian). To our fathers, grandfathers, and significant father figures - we love you and are so grateful for your influence in our lives.

Happy Father's Day!

The Chocolate Gene

2011-06-20T10:23:00.000-07:00

...runs thick in our family!

We heart Grand Lake, CO

2011-06-19T10:01:00.000-07:00

Boating

Campbell - Zachary - August - Whitney - Eden
(George was sleeping)

Hot Sulfer Springs

Homeade Ice Cream Balls

Scavenger Hunts

and so much more... see you next year!

My little mom

2011-06-13T13:00:00.000-07:00

and her willing accomplis...

I knew she could get him out of his crib, I just never knew what it actually looked like.

I was pleased to see that there wasn't as much "drop" as I was imagining.

She must have gotten too many kudos for getting him out of bed, because in the same day (with NO PROMPTING whatsoever from me) she changed his diaper all on her own. I came in at the last minute and luckily had my camera in hand.

And lucky for her, it was not a "number 2" diaper. "Oh, I checked first Mommy", she said.

Blue Day

2011-06-11T21:46:00.000-07:00

Our Vacation in Photos

2011-06-10T14:05:00.000-07:00

Have you heard??

2011-06-01T08:55:00.000-07:00

But before the last day... about two weeks before... I discovered the greatest thing ever! Eden can pick out her own clothes... AND I WILL SURVIVE! (I always knew she could, of course, I just wasn't sure I could live with the outcome.) What a blessing and a gift! No more begging, fighting, and worst of all...negotiating. My only regret is that I waited this long because next year she is in a uniform. So, for your viewing pleasure, I decided to photograph some of my personal favorites. Enjoy!

This outfit happened after I said "You might want some boots or something to cover your legs, it's going to be cool today." It's all in the interpretation, I guess. :)

Goodbye Ms. Hamilton/Leutung/Woodbury

2011-05-26T19:41:00.000-07:00

After 29 years of teaching, planning, giving, and loving other people's kids... my step-mom, Jeanne is done!! YAY!! (Now she can do more of that for her grandkids!!)

Although she doesn't want much recognition, I can't help but honor all that she has done. She has taught Kindergarten through third grade, in three different cities, and with three different names :). She has worked in the poorest schools with the poorest families. She has worked in all year round schools and in loop teaching schools. She has taught kids who can barely focus and those who barely speak English.

This could not be more timely, as Eden enters Kindergarten this year, because she has also taught me to appreciate every teacher that comes across our path.

Your children and grandchildren are so proud of you!

In fact, we are so excited we've gone SILLY!

CONGRATULATIONS!!

Rainy day pizza

2011-05-25T09:00:00.000-07:00

Faster... cheaper... and dare I say, BETTER than delivery!

She must have a magic touch.

Goodbye Perk Hill

2011-05-24T09:00:00.000-07:00

We love our neighborhood, especially our block, it rocks! Downtown Denver is known for it's pocket shopping districts and it is such a treat to have one of these conveniences within a very short walking distance of our home. Brian can buy wine/beer and pizza. I can do yoga and get my nails done. Eden can get her hair cut, go to gymnastics, and coax us into dozens of cupcakes. All within steps of our home. But one of our greatest pleasures was our local coffee shop, Perk Hill (a.k.a. "the ice-cream shop" to Eden). They closed their doors this week and we had to say goodbye to our lattes and chai tea, ice-cream and scones, movie rentals and study joint. What a loss.

We ate our last scoops of ice-cream as the moving truck was loaded with the contents of our favorite little Park Hill treasure. You will be missed greatly, Perk Hill Cafe.

We're back!

2011-05-23T20:09:00.000-07:00

Although it may have seemed like we were stuck in the dryer or something, Blogger was actually having some technical difficulties. Sorry!

I hope you weren't too worried (Gigi). Everyone is doing great. In fact, we have been having a ball! This crazy rain has forced us to get a little more creative than normal - not quite wet and bored enough to put the kids in the dryer - he just did that all on his own.

If I could reach up and hold a star for every time you've made me smile, the entire evening sky would be in the palm of my hand~ Author Unknown

Techie

2011-05-06T21:49:00.001-07:00

Who is teaching who how to use Brian's new iphone?

Spring is here

2011-04-30T21:23:00.001-07:00

and I've got a willing helper as we clean and reorganize.

This one's for you, mom!

2011-04-29T06:28:00.000-07:00

Gimme a...

What's that spell?

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MIMI!

Sprout

2011-04-27T20:50:00.000-07:00

When a girl named Eden wants to plant a garden...

it will grow. Amazing!

My sweet Easter moments...

2011-04-25T13:39:00.000-07:00

included these cute kids in their adorable outfits...
beautiful music at church...
cool-weathered egg hunting...
yummy food and sweet, sweet dessert...

(And last, but not least... a cute apron clad breakfast cook!)

Easter Eve

2011-04-23T22:46:00.000-07:00

This Easter Bunny is ready.
The hard-boiled eggs have been dyed.
The plastic ones have been filled.
The chocolate "nest" cake is cooling.
The church clothes have been pressed.
The family gifts have been set out.
And most importantly... the baskets have been filled and will be returned to the porch in the wee hours of the morning... just in time for the kiddos to wake up and find them.

Hope your Easter is eggstra special!

My little cowgirl

2011-04-17T20:38:00.000-07:00

is sick. Ugh.

(pictures taken 3 weeks ago at the ranch)

I tell myself that it is just a cold... while tears well up in my eyes... but the truth is, there is no such thing as "just a cold" in my world. Thus is the life of a mother of a transplanted kid. So instead, I go to bed tonight, with the monitor turned up louder, mentally clearing my schedule for the week, and a little prayer in my heart.

Co-sleepers

2011-04-15T10:35:00.000-07:00

Have I mentioned how much these two love sharing a room?

Brian and I love listening to the early morning giggles on the monitor. We would love them even more if they weren't at 6:30am... the giggles that is, not the kids!

P.S... They don't actually share a bed. Eden just loves cuddling with him in the morning! But Brian does like to joke that baby #3 would have to go in the bath tub. (And my reply is always - "or on his side of the bed!")

Surprise!

2011-04-14T20:51:00.000-07:00

Aaron and Leslie surprise us with a wedding!

It was so much fun to be apart of this event!

Life lately

2011-04-11T08:32:00.000-07:00

After a 2 day photography class this weekend, I learned a lot about what I don't know and little about how to catch speed racers like this.

I just hope I'm able to catch my little speed racers in a new light.

You be the judge.

Still Jammin'

2011-04-04T21:31:00.000-07:00

After a week at the ranch... I'm feeling much better, Eden hit official cowgirl status, and August thinks he is a country western star (he may have gotten some help from his father).

Lots more to share soon!

The Making of a Movie Star {Party}

2011-03-27T22:37:00.000-07:00

Eden's birthday party couldn't have been more timely. She wanted a "movie" party and since Oscar season was upon us, we celebrated in red carpet style.

The guests arrived in their pajamas and were adorned at the door.

The paparazzi flashed pictures.

And each child got to strut their stuff on the red carpet.

Next, we decorated big, gold, Hollywood stars (but my focus on 10 finger painting kids kept me from taking pictures)!

We ate pizza and a star studded cake.

For the grand finale:
They watched The Muppets Take Manhattan with popcorn in hand.

And although we are not fully convinced she is ready,

Eden talked us into her first sleep over.

The morning after!

Fighting Back

2011-03-22T08:29:00.000-07:00

The lag in blog posts lately have been mostly due to a busy birthday/guest season around here, but I must admit, I have also been struggling a bit. I feel as though I am a (fairly) emotionally stable person when it comes to Eden's health status, but unfortunately there are some weeks that I completely fall apart. Last week was one of those weeks... within 36 hours, 3 kids from the CCF (Children's Cardiomyopathy Foundation - a.k.a. my support group) listserve died. Obviously, one of these kids dying is too many, and three was more than my heart could take. All three circumstances were different, but due to Cardiomyopathy. All three could have been or still could be Eden. All three caused me to stop in my tracks, give thanks for everything I've got, and I've honestly had trouble starting up again.

I have paused to try and figure out what is going on with me... (am I just feeling sorry for myself?)... and what I should be doing about it. I have talked to friends (thanks Nicole!). I have talked to Drs. (thanks Dr. Rubin!). I have even prayed (thanks God!). And more than just giving thanks for EVERY FREAKIN' SECOND that I have with Eden, I have decided to start fighting, I mean giving, back. What this will look like, I have not yet figured out. My goal is to actively support the community that has done so much for our family with the hopes that one more person fighting this ugly thing we call Cardiomyopathy might actually be what it takes to reach a cure.

I honestly don't know why it took me this long to figure out that I need to be doing more... better late than never, I guess.

Speaking of being late... here are some more pictures of how Eden celebrated her 5th birthday.

Making star shaped brownies for her preschool class (the night before).

Eating breakfast (Mickey Mouse pancakes) with her presents.

Blowing out the candles at her school party.

Playing with new toys and loving every second of HER day.

LUCK:

2011-03-17T20:44:00.000-07:00

"Believing in the extraordinary by noticing the daily magic in the ordinary."

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

P.S. I'm lovin' their green eyes today :)

Growing up and giving back

2011-03-03T20:39:00.000-08:00

Dear Eden,

On your birthday, the day we should be showering you with gifts, I sit down to think of all that you have given me. The last five years have been nothing that I expected of having a child; in so many ways, it's been more. We (us moms) often complain of all that is taken from us when we become mothers, but today I can only think of your gifts and how very lucky I am to be your mother. You have shown me passion and compassion, hope and healing, strength and mercy, youth and imagination, beauty and love, grace and kindness, dance and humor... and more dancing. I am so grateful for these gifts and so much more. I often feel guilty when I admit that March 3rd, 2006 was not the best day of my life, but because of it, I have treasured everyday since.

And even though you decided you didn't want me to sing you your song tonight... because you're five now... all grown up and ready to let go... I may have sung it right outside your door... because I'm NOT ready to give you up.

Happy Birthday, Eden Raine!

Love, Mom

Eden's Angel

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

(Not my photo)

There is not a day that goes by that I don't think about Eden's angel, the child who lost his life and allowed Eden to continue her own. We are eternally grateful, you know we are, but have failed in our ability to share this with Eden's donor family. As we finally sat down to transform these feelings into words, I asked myself why it has taken us two and a half years to do this. Then it hit me... I am painfully aware that we are only one half of the extraordinary event that occurred on August 6th, 2008... the better* half. As in most everything in my life, I have trouble being the winner if it means someone else has to lose. This harsh reality has slowed me down, but what finally got us to seal the envelope this month was our ability to focus on the positive. Rather than just feeling bad for their loss, we chose to detail all that has been gained, including the amazing life Eden lives due to the gift they have given.

We hope they embrace our gratitude. We hope they choose to respond. We hope that someday we could introduce them to Eden and reunite them with the part of their child that lives on. And until then, I will continue to see hearts everywhere, and with each one know, that Eden's angel is smiling back at us.

*I say this lightly. The word "better" is relative, of course, Eden's had a very tough road and will for the rest of her life - but she is alive.

33 years young

2011-02-27T16:49:00.000-08:00

It is no secret that Brian (and his sister, Erin) LOVE birthdays. His mother created one tough act to follow and every year I find myself thinking of another tradition to add to our long list of Murphy-family-birthday-must-haves.

1. A homemade birthday banner:

2. Breakfast in bed:
(This picture was actually taken during tickle fest the night before.)

3. Gifts.
(These are the adorable mugs that Eden made... with a little help... which held the chai tea Brian was served in bed.)

4. A family outing - this year we went swimming.
(One kid LOVED it and one kid HATED it!)

5. Dinner out! (My personal favorite :)

6. And, of course, a homemade cake!
In Brian's case it is always Grasshopper ice-cream pie.
(not pictured... it was melting!)

Needless to say, tomorrow I will be resting up for the next big birthday in our house. Boy do we have a celebration planned for this girl and after watching the Oscars tonight, I am in the mood for a movie night to remember! I just hope our little movie star can handle the attention.

August - How old are you?

2011-02-22T21:52:00.000-08:00

The Valentine Extravaganza

2011-02-17T07:55:00.000-08:00

Calling Valentine's Day an extravaganza this year is no exaggeration. Along with the normal craziness of a Monday we added a party at Eden's school and a (disastrous) photo session to boot!

Days in advance we began by making lots of homemade valentines. Some to pass out to her school friends as well as the mailed variety sent to family and friends.

Then, since no heart day is complete without heart shaped food, we had heart pancakes, heart pasta, and heart pizza throughout the day... Not to mention heart cookies and candy too!

Eden changed dresses three times that day. Although dress #2 is not pictured here, I did snap a shot of her in only tights and a t-shirt at her school party (dress #1 got wet in a snow bank).

She is quite the diva! And although she is not sick of hearts, she is quite happy to move on to her all time favorite holiday... her birthday! Can you believe this girl is going to be five?!

Happy Heart Day!

2011-02-14T22:20:00.000-08:00

I heart the little things

2011-02-09T21:57:00.000-08:00

After a hectic month of classes and studying, terrible allergies and then jury duty; I found myself exhausted and barely able to keep my head above water. (I really don't see how working moms do it!) It was so wonderful to have our moms swoop in and take care of us... not to mention our larger than life baby-sitter (btw... I dread the day she has a family of her own)! But what really got me through it, the only thing that ever does, was stopping to enjoy the little things.

Like coming home to find my two kids (and their buddy Cecilia) cuddled up in a chair with Nicole (aka... my savior) reading books, happier than ever, and still in their jammies.

Or finding August in that same chair, looking bigger than ever and wondering where my baby went.

Like a sunny day after after a big storm - perfect for making snow angels.

And shinny girl's shoes on my tap dancing boy... seriously, he is the next Sammy Davis Jr. (I guess he got it from his sister?)

Like "opposite" day at school... and any other excuse to get her to walk through the doors with a smile on her face.

And those eyes... oh those eyes will get you out of any kind of funk.

Will.i.am's ode to Eden

2011-02-08T13:46:00.000-08:00

We've been dancing to this video all day! Enjoy!!

Welcoming February with open hearts

2011-02-01T16:18:00.000-08:00

(Not my picture)

Even more important than being the month for lovers, February is the official American Heart Month. Eden and I love hearts of all kinds and we'll take any excuse to celebrate and cherish the healthy hearts in our lives. We have already pulled out the heart decor and planned a few fun crafts. We will also be wearing red everyday, participating in some sort of exercise (everyday!), and cutting back on the animal products in our food. And last, but not least, we have the huge goal of finally writing to her donor family.

Stay tuned as we'll include you on this journey....

P.S. Does jumping on the bed count as exercise?

"Congenital heart defects are the #1 cause of birth defect related deaths. 1 in 3 children who die from a birth defect have a congenital heart defect."

This one is for Grammy

2011-01-30T11:03:00.000-08:00

Brian's mom was just here, visiting and helping with the kids, as she left she said she needed an updated photo of the two kids together. This is the best I could come up with... it may be time for another visit with Lori.

Why is it so impossible to get a good photo of them both?

Every picture seems to have at one kid undressed...

One rear-end...

One silly face...

Or one stuffed in a shopping cart.

P.S. Thank you for everything, Susan. You take such good care of us!

This one is for Tia

2011-01-26T14:41:00.000-08:00

Beans, beans,

the magical fruit,

the more you eat,

the more you....

MAKE A MESS!

Bride to be

2011-01-12T12:16:00.000-08:00

(sniff, sniff...)

Eden thinks she is the wedding expert. The newest words in her vocabulary include: "bouquet", "veil", and... get this.... "honeymoon"!

So I decided to interview her about getting married. Here's how it went:

1. How do you pick who you are going to marry?

"One of your friends comes from a different state."

2. What is it called when you get asked or you ask someone else to marry you?

"Enraged"

3. What do you wear to your wedding?

"A beautiful gown - kinda like a dress, a veil on your head and flowers in your hands."

3. What do you exchange with your husband or wife during the wedding?

"A little gift or a present. I would want some lipstick."

4. What do you do at a wedding?

"You walk down the isle, kiss, and then throw your bouquet."

5. Where do the bride and groom go after they are married?

"Upstairs to get their baby"

Skiing in the streets

2011-01-10T10:49:00.000-08:00

Reason

#4375

why

love

Colorado!

WE'RE BACK

2011-01-09T08:37:00.000-08:00

and Mommy's got an awesome new camera!

Happy New Year

2011-01-01T21:18:00.000-08:00

Create a free digital greeting card

Double Birthday

2010-12-22T20:38:00.000-08:00

The evening of August's actual birthday we were in Kirksville, MO with my grandmother. I am so glad she was able to enjoy this sight (even if we had to clean the carpet in her kitchen later).

These pictures speak for themselves...

I almost peed myself when he started eating with his face to the table. Seriously, why do we give a one year old a plate?

(Might I add that we've come a long way from Eden's fake, sweet potato mush, first birthday cake.... Thank GOD... sigh)

Happy Birthday August (and Cousin Campbell)

2010-12-19T19:56:00.000-08:00

The weekend before August's actual first birthday and the day after Campbell's 6th birthday we had a little party at the ranch... entitled Winter Onederland!

We shared snowball cupcakes...

(before)

(after)

(the mature 6 year old)

We decorated snowflake ornaments, made snow globes, and our pretend snowball fight was more like a snow pile on top of Uncle Brian.

It was REALLY exciting.

Right, Lance?

Goodbye Grandpa

2010-12-16T20:47:00.000-08:00

I spent the day saying goodbye to this man today.

Merrill Edward Leutung

He lived 89 full years.
He married twice, had two children, one grandchild, and two great-grandchildren.
He survived World War II.
He loved the Missouri Tigers and hated onions.
He made it into Missouri's Bowling Hall of Fame.
He was very proud of his ability to kick a bad smoking habit, a dangerous drinking habit and 3 previous bouts with cancer.
He was successful, involved, and extremely generous.
He was strong and stubborn and loved me fiercely.

So... I can't figure out why I can't stop crying. It's selfish, I guess. I hate change, I hate goodbyes, and I hate knowing he will miss sharing his 89th birthday with his great grandson next week.

Thank you for everything, Grandpa. I love you too.

Trip to Tahoe

2010-12-13T20:22:00.000-08:00

Welcome, Christmas

2010-12-01T20:59:00.000-08:00

Still giving thanks

2010-11-30T12:02:00.000-08:00

Although I'm late at posting about our Thanksgiving we are no less grateful for the time spent with family.

The weekend came and went in a blur. We decorated, cooked, ate and visited for four fun filled days.

Eden was in heaven... claiming Thanksgiving is better than Christmas ("because Santa doesn't come into your house in the middle of the night").

She had all that she was thankful for within arm's reach.

We were so grateful to have Brian's grandma, Shirley, travel so far; Aunt Kristina help with the cooking; Grammy Susan on clean-up; and Tia Erin and Kurt on babysitting duty. Oh, and the selfless bird who lay down his life so that my little girl could have double helpings of turkey!

If only I would have known which end goes up!

Too big for her britches

2010-11-21T21:43:00.000-08:00

First, she told her dad to "zip it" last night (she was defending me, so I couldn't exactly scold her!).

Then while being wrestled by her brother, she asked him "what time do you think it is, bang thirty?"

And last, (in this photo) I am asked to leave the living room because she needs peace and quiet in her work space.

Remind me... is she 4 or 40?!

10 Months

2010-11-19T12:40:00.000-08:00

Dear August,

You are now 10 months old - well actually, 10.5 because I am a couple of weeks late on writing this letter to you - and you have officially been out of my body as long as you were in it. This is a crazy insight, as it seems that you have been in this world so much longer.

As I sit down to write, you are playing at my feet, quite content, with my computer cord and the vacuum attachments (why do we buy toys?). You are Mr. Curious. You grab, pull, shake, bang, throw, and taste most anything within reach. We have had to "baby-proof" so much more than with your sister and you still manage to find trouble on a daily basis. You love the dishwasher and the refrigerator with a passion. I have developed an instinctual arm guard to fend you off as I grab a quick drink or put a dish away. I have also been known to open one of these to provide you brief entertainment while I finish a quick call or task.

Although this curiosity has lead to a few falls and torn books, I am quite certain it will also provide a great foundation for growth and learning. This is what I tell myself. Your dad is the best at letting you explore - they say you two are similar so he must relate to your need for adventure. I, on the other hand, am having to learn to let go. The first big test came this month when your dad and I left you and your sister with Mimi and Pops for four days. It was my first nights away from you and really challenged my need to control every second of your day. Since we've been back I've realized that you are already doing a good job of that yourself. You decide if you are going to eat, sleep, crawl or be held... as much as I'd like to think it is up to me, it's not. You are actually VERY strong willed. Again, I am coping by hoping this will serve you well in the future.

You've had a few more health issues this month. I hate to even complain/comment on it because we really are so grateful for the wonderful health you do have. We are so thankful that you show no signs of Eden's heart condition, but are learning about the triangle of conditions that you seem to struggle with - Airway disease (early asthma?), skin sensitivities, and allergies. You first began breathing treatments several months ago when your persistent, wheezing cough lingered for weeks. Now, as soon as you show signs of a cold we hook you up to the nebulizer. This is not your favorite 15 minutes... shocker... and I dread this part of the day. Then, your chest started breaking out, followed by a nasty diaper rash, both obviously very irritating as you would immediately scratch either area when given the opportunity. Let me tell you, this has made changing your diaper quite an event, not recommended to the reflex impaired. You were already super squirmy, now add itchy, grabby, and twisty. Impossible. Thankfully, you have been responding well to all of the cream, oral, and inhaled treatments and your attitude remains unaffected.

Of course, you continue to learn, grow and advance. This is almost happening faster than we can manage. You went from crawling to the bottom stair and banging on it... to climbing up all fifteen in a matter of days. If we don't have you strapped into your highchair just right, you are often found standing in your seat, with the occasional escape onto the kitchen table. You can work your way around a room, with a sporadic step taken in between furniture. And you will push or carry an object that almost equals your weight without hesitation. You love your pacifier with a passion. You hate every milli-second that it takes to wipe your nose. And you are very generous with your affection - often described as the most cuddly boy around.

In her own words

2010-11-17T11:59:00.000-08:00

Eden has been in a Catholic Preschool (Blessed Sacrament) for two weeks. She seems to enjoy some of the ritual, but has already decided to change a few things... hope they don't mind.

"In the name of the Father,

the Son,

the Mother,

and the Daughter.

Amen."

P.S. "When do I get the gifts that we are about to receive?"

Haircut #2

2010-11-16T11:43:00.000-08:00

I left the room for a second (to grab a comb and spray bottle) and Eden decided to begin August's haircut without me.

Yes, I let her continue so I could get a picture.

Yes, it is just hair and will grow back.

Yes, we all had fun.

(Yes, you may say I am a bad mom.)

Mr. Busy Body

2010-11-16T10:54:00.000-08:00

is climbing...

is taking some steps...

and is in to everything.

Sick again!

2010-11-09T21:42:00.000-08:00

Eden has a little cold, a poor appetite, and a bad attitude...

August has a rash, a rash, and a rash (hives, eczema, and yeast)...

Mom has chronic exhaustion...

and Dad has chronic optimism... (Thank God!)

On the bright side, Eden has started taking Yoga (mom too!). There is seriously nothing cuter than 10 2-5 year old's barking in downward dog pose.

Preschool Blues

2010-11-07T06:41:00.000-08:00

After almost a year and a half of crying we decided to take the plunge and switch Eden to a new preschool. She was thrilled to learn that she didn't have to go back to her old school - she didn't even hesitate when we went in to say goodbye - she loved the new school so much that we had trouble getting her to leave after the "trial" visit. We thought we had it made! Unfortunately, the newness has worn off and the crying has begun again. We are still hopeful that this is just a temporary reaction to the transition. Cross your fingers...

Here, we are celebrating her first week at the new school with a chocolate milkshake, of course.

"Happy Halloween,

2010-10-31T21:36:00.000-07:00

Yee Haw and Moooo!"

From the pink cowgirl and her little cow.

(Kearney Street kiddos: Anna, Nathan, Ben, Eden, August, and Vincent.
Missing: Babies Sofia, Lauren, and Noah)

Eden and Zander (as Woody)

Sienna (the Lady Bug) and August

Off to treat-or-treat!

The looooong week

2010-10-29T21:00:00.000-07:00

As I indicated in my previous post, Eden has been sick. Really sick. By Tuesday she'd lost so much fluid that she no longer had the energy to walk or even talk much. I made an appointment to see the cardiologist that afternoon, but when she told me she couldn't wait any longer we packed the car and headed to the ER.

We have many reasons to love The Children's Hospital, but one of their best services is the Child Life Specialist that visits with toys, books, and real medical equipment (Eden's favorite!). Here, Eden is able to practice placing an iv in a bear before she gets one of her own.

Soon after this photo was taken, the nurse walked in and said that it looked like we were having fun. Eden gave her her most enthusiastic "yes", which was really more of a soft grunt and a nod. But I do believe she was enjoying the attention, the toys, the movie selection, and even a few bites of snack. I am sure I saw a smile or two.

The tears came back as soon as her iv was placed and she couldn't manage to gather herself for quite a while. When her friends in Cardiology came by and saw her distress, they asked if she was in pain... if the iv was still stinging... "no and NO" were her answers. Then she mumbled something under her tears that only I could recognize as "I'm not having fun anymore!".

Thankfully, her heart and kidneys checked out beautifully and the iv fluids perked her up again. By the end of the day we were allowed to go home. Just in time for August to start losing his fluids... if you know what I mean.

This photo was taken the next day... back to the singing and dancing girl we love... clad in all pink (to match her band-aid, of course).

(Luckily she is eating a ton right now and making up for all of the lost calories - she is such a skinny mini!)

Contacting Guiness

2010-10-25T12:28:00.000-07:00

If there were a contest for the most times a mother had to change her clothes in a day (due to her child's vomit), I think I would win today. Eden caught a nasty bug and spent the weekend on the couch... when she wasn't hunched over the toilet, poor girl. And just as we got her settled in bed tonight, August decided to join in the fun... poor baby.

Before the stomach flu infected our home, we were happily celebrating fall and preparing for Halloween. Here are some of our recent festivities.

(Pumpkin patch fun)

(Halloween books and jammies)

(and cupcakes too!)

(Look who's trying to sneak a bite!)

Sorry for the lack of posts recently. I was having some trouble with Blogger accepting my photos. And what's a blog with out a photo? Boring!

89 Years Young

2010-10-15T16:10:00.000-07:00

To one of the most caring, giving, involved, independent, active, and progressive (yea, she drives a Prius!) people I know and love... who also, just so happens to be 89.

Happy Birthday, Grandma Ruby (GiGi)!

From August,

Eden,

and Brian and I.

(four generations)

(I was thinking... you should start practicing your blowing strength for 90 candles next year!)

New Tricks

2010-10-14T15:33:00.000-07:00

"YAY!"

"So BIG!"

"Night - Night"

What did you say? Give Sissy a kiss or pull her hair?

Playing Denist

2010-10-12T21:01:00.000-07:00

Second to going to the dentist
(one of Eden's favorite outings)...

is playing dentist at home...

(but dentists don't like to smile for the camera!)

And playing "dentist" is second to playing anything "doctor", of course!

May The Road Rise To Meet You

2010-10-07T12:26:00.000-07:00

We are here:

Eden and August have been left in very capable hands with my parents. I am quite aware of their abilities, they did raise me, however it has been 30 years or so since they had a four-year old (and longer since a baby) so I may have gone a little over the top with preparations... what do you think?

There are labels on the dressers:

Detailed directions for Eden's medicine, dosing, and August's breathing treatments:

Instructions throughout the house for meals, schedules, and electronics:

The baby food has been made:

The breast-milk has been stored:

And if everything goes well... they will eat (and drink from a bottle), sleep, and be merry.

This is my first overnight trip without August. Man, it's rough!
(Eden broke me in fast by spending her first 33 nights in the hospital.)

Hopefully someone is singing his song to him before bed.

Happy Birthday, Susan/Grammy!

'Tis the season

2010-09-26T21:32:00.000-07:00

Most of the time I find Colorado beautiful. The mountains in the west, the clear blue skies, the snow capped peaks... but there are a couple of weeks in the year that I feel Colorado is the most beautiful place on Earth. I can feel it coming just after Labor Day. The weather cools off at night and we wake up to crisp clear mornings. Mums pop up everywhere and bulbs are put in the ground. Talk of Halloween spreads like wildfire amongst the neighborhood children. And just beyond the city limits a magical color transition is occurring in the Aspen.

Every year we take a drive to see the fall colors, trying to catch the leaves right at their peak. We may have been a touch early this year, but we couldn't have picked a more beautiful evening.

This is why I live in Colorado!
(This and a million other reasons. :)

Have you voted?

2010-09-24T14:22:00.000-07:00

If you're reading this and you haven't yet voted, consider yourself personally summonded to do so. Go to my friend Lori's photography blog by clicking here, scroll down to the bottom of the page and leave a quick comment. You can even say, "I was forced to do this" like my dad. Consider it a favor to us, good karma, paying it foward and I promise the universe will reward you in due time.

You're the best! (You really are... even if you don't vote :).

Count 'em... 9 months!

2010-09-22T17:35:00.001-07:00

Dear August,

You are nine months old and I have no more words for these letters to you. No, not really. That's what we call an ex.ag.ger.a.tion. I am just having trouble putting these feelings to words. I am boiling over with love for you. I look at this picture - get overwhelmed with emotion - well up in tears - the screen gets blurry - and it's all over. Every day I fall more in love with you. With your beautiful eyes, your scrumptious chubby belly and thighs, your irresistible giggle, and your heart-melting cuddles.

You keep growing and changing by leaps and bounds. The last two weeks in particular have been incredible to watch. Before then, you were probably (technically) developmentally delayed. Did you hear me on the phone with the therapist or the pediatrician? Did you get tired of sitting in one place, crying and flapping your arms like a baby bird? Did you finally realize that your tummy wasn't so bad after all? Well, whatever the incentive, it is such a relief to see you move. You can flip yourself over so easily, push up to hands and knees, crawl forward (slowly), crawl backwards (a bit faster), pull yourself up to stand, and walk around furniture. All within two weeks!! At this pace, I'm tempted to strap a helmet to your head. What's next? Driving?

With all this work on motor development, your speech has stayed about the same... with one big exception... your first word! It's nothing phenomenal or flashy, but it is definitely a word. Every time you catch a glimpse of that ADORABLE baby in the mirror, you say "aiyee" in a high pitched voice (probably imitating me) and wave. You don't do this to anyone else or at any other time, but it's just about the cutest thing I've ever seen. You imitate inflection a lot in your babbling. You also must be telling little jokes, because sometimes you make yourself chuckle after a particularly long sentence.

You laugh easily, startle with loud or unexpected noises, and scream bloody murder if you think you've been left or forgotten. You are the most ticklish baby I've ever met. Two bottom teeth now accompany your gorgeous smile. A hat is your most favorite article of clothing. You LOVE to eat, but are clear when you're full. You still grab your ears when you're tired. The pacifier makes almost everything better. And Eden continues to be the highlight of your waking hours.

Thanks for being the highlight of mine.

The end of summer, 2010

2010-09-21T21:38:00.000-07:00

Nothing says Summer like...

Bright blooming flowers...

and family day hikes.

Mountain cabins with cousins...

and t-ball with the boys.

Pretty summer dresses...

and seer-suckered babies.

Afternoon water play...

and late night sparklers.

Backyard BBQs...

and neighborhood bike rides.

Blow-up swimming pools...

and butterfly face-paint.

Hot sweaty hugs...

and freezing cold sprinklers.

Lake vacations...

floaties...

and ice-cream sundaes!

Free flying frisbees...

and diving beyond fears.

Summer of 2010...

we have no regrets and tons of great memories.

On the move!

2010-09-20T21:59:00.000-07:00

After talks with therapists, lots of encouragement, and a little worrying (okay, a lot). August finally decided he was ready to crawl. Here he is on the eve of his 9 month birthday.

We are in BIG trouble - and I love it!

Hil.arious.

2010-09-19T20:40:00.001-07:00

I came back from a run this morning to find this in our front yard:

As much as I would love to live in a "show home", this mistake did make us chuckle a little this morning. I kept thinking of all the things we could "show" the tour... like our living room/dance floor, dinning room/breast pumping station, or family room/laundry folding area/bead board construction zone.

As it turns out, the sign was meant for another house down the street, but we did get a fair amount of traffic before the mishap was remedied. (Even with the ladder on the porch and half-painted trim!)

While the Cat is away...

2010-09-16T21:17:00.000-07:00

The Mouse will play...

VOTE for August & Family

2010-09-11T14:11:00.000-07:00

Aren't these two kiddos the cutest?
(Not cuter than your own kids and grandchildren, of course...)

Like, say, cute enough to vote for in a contest?
(Not a beauty contest or child modeling sorta thing...)

Go to: http://www.lorikphotography.com/blog/2010/08/creative-family-portraits-city-park-denver/
Scroll down the bottom of the page.
Leave an adoring comment about us.
Easy, peasy.

If we get the most comments we win a canvas print!
(If not, you have to buy us one for Christmas!)

So go vote and tell your friends!

We are loosing big-time... we need your help!

7 down and a lifetime to go!

2010-09-06T20:26:00.000-07:00

Danny & Annie from StoryCorps on Vimeo.

I just about melted after hearing this story and then forced Brian to sit for five whole minutes and watch it too. Here, Danny and Annie, recount their 27 years of marriage... from their first date 'til death do them part. I can only hope Brian and I are this sweet after 20 more years together. If this past weekend of celebrating was a test - Me allergic to the outdoors and sick to my stomach, Brian covered in hives, August waking up 2 times a night and Eden talking/screaming in her sleep, all of us cozied up in one room - we should be just fine.

Happy Anniversary, Sweetie. You are the best choice I've ever made. I love you.

Goodbye August

2010-09-01T20:57:00.000-07:00

Although I love you, I am happy to say farewell.

You start out so hopeful.
You have given our family a time to celebrate and cherish life.
You provide a time for vacation.
You smell of backyard barbecues.
You harvest some of the year's best fruits and vegetables.
You mean camping, concerts, and yard sales.
You are warm and light and happy.
For goodness sakes, we named our second born after you!

And then....

I remember I am SOOOO allergic to you!
You make me sneeze, itch, cry and swell up.
I am so happy to be done with you (except when I see pictures like these...).

Goodbye August, you are so bittersweet.

Thanks to Scott Dressel-Martin and his talented eye. We were so very fortunate to run into him at our last visit to the Denver Botanic Gardens.

The back-to-school count down... D Day

2010-08-31T21:35:00.000-07:00

First Day of School, D = Delightful

I didn't plan to take pictures because I didn't want to interfere with the delicate balance of Eden's emotions. As it turns out, she was high spirited and full of energy. She had an amazing drop off (which is usually the problem) and transition. Wheeeeeew! We were so relieved.

All of these things crossed my mind:
"Of course, she did great. We did everything right!"
"She is so old and mature now."
"Maybe it actually wasn't so bad last year."
"What was I worried about?"

Second Day of School, D = Dreadful... Disaster... Drowning in tears

I don't even know what to say. I have felt so Defeated all day. I guess we should have explained a little better that she would continue to go to school after the big First Day. For now, our plan is to keep a smile on our faces and never ever speak negatively about her preschool experience. (And we've got a few more tricks up our sleeves when and if they are needed.)

Thanks for all of your support this last week. I know you've been cheering her on too. Oh, and if you think of it, at about 8:15am (mountain time) we could use all the positive energy you can spare.

The back-to-school count down... Day 1

2010-08-29T21:26:00.000-07:00

Murphy Family Back-to-School BBQ

On the eve before her first day back, we decided to have a very special dinner. The honoree helped choose the meal (kabobs and corn on the cob), wore a homemade crown bearing her new title at school "pre-K" (K is for Kindergarden), and blew out the candle on an ice cream sandwich. If only all of this celebrating could actually create a joy for her return to school. :)

Wish us luck tomorrow!

The back-to-school count down... Day 2

2010-08-28T20:40:00.000-07:00

Day 2 = The Last Hoorah!

Tonight was the first annual Murphy Family Last Hoorah Outing (to be celebrated the last weekend before school starts every year). Eden decided she wanted to go to a Carnival after seeing a picture in a magazine this week. For lack of a true carnival, we chose the Lakeside Amusement Park which is fairly close to home and (unbeknownst to us) perfect, perfect, perfect. I am still amazed at this treasure - a charming, old-fashioned, family-friendly park. We had a wonderful evening, shared with friends, good laughs, and yummy treats.

Oh, and if you can't tell by the pictures, Eden had the time of her life... (which really could have gone either way)! On the car ride home she listed every person she knows and why they too would love the amusement park. Zachary. Campbell. Whitney. Ali. Hudson. Weston. Wilson. Brooks. Vincent. Ben. Nathan. Anna. Sydney. Mackenzie. Colton. You get the idea. :)

The back-to-school count down... Day 3

2010-08-27T22:13:00.000-07:00

Day 3 = Farewell to the Babysitter

Eden has had the same babysitter since about the time she started walking. And although she hasn't seen as much of her since she started school last year, she still loves this woman with a passion. Nicole (a.k.a. Nic) has cared for Eden through the worst of her ailments and the best of her triumphs. At times, she has been like a third parent; a savior for Brian and I. She was the only other person with whom Eden would be left alone and the only person that could get her to eat well.

Not to point fingers... BUT she is probably personally responsible for Eden not liking preschool. I mean, who would rather spend the day at school when you could be with someone who will allow "upside down day". Today, she helped Eden put her legs through the arm holes of her t-shirt and pulled her skirt up as a top (after Eden declared it was upside down day).

Although this wasn't really goodbye, it was more like "see you on the next day I play hooky from school", we did want to make a special effort for Eden and Nicole to get some time together. Nicole will also start helping us with August this fall. If he only knew how lucky he is!

The back-to-school count down... Day 4

2010-08-26T21:44:00.000-07:00

Day 4 = Visiting School / "Play-date"

We decided that another special way to get Eden ready to go back to school is to remind her of all the friends she will get to see. Today we visited Eden's preschool, said hi to some of her teachers, and then brought her classmate, Ashlynn, home with us for a play-date. Eden showed surprising interest in returning on Monday... we'll see!

Since I didn't bring my camera to school with us, I will show you what else we did today. Back to school clothes shopping - 21st century style! This is Eden's imitation of what she saw me doing on the phone with my mom. Man... I leave the room for a second and she has taken over... talking to her imaginary mom about tights vs. leggings and whether or not 'this' will match with 'that'.

P.S. I'm starting to get really nervous. Is all this preparation still going to lead to total meltdown?!

The back-to-school count down... Day 5

2010-08-25T22:04:00.000-07:00

Day 5 = Neighborhood Fun

Today we loaded up the stroller and took to the neighborhood. We hit the local park, coffee/ ice cream shop, and even checked in on some friends.

One of Eden's least favorite parts of going back to school is her lack of freedom. She loves making her own schedule (or so she thinks!), moving at her own speed, and the familiarity of her surroundings. I mean, what kind of school is going to allow naked water play?!

In case you're wondering... August has been joining in on our week's adventure... when he's not sleeping, that is!

(Lindsey and her son Tate, in the pool with Eden)

The back-to-school count down... Day 6

2010-08-24T21:56:00.000-07:00

Day 6 = Summer Album

Today we decided to design a photo album of our summer. Eden loves looking at pictures on the computer so we spent ample time reminiscing...

Seriously... Where did the summer go?

The back-to-school count down... Day 7

2010-08-23T21:45:00.000-07:00

Our glorious days of summer are coming to an end.
Eden will be back to pre-school in exactly one week.
She is dreading it with every ounce of her 30 pound body. (I'm rounding up!)
And so am I...

So, we're going out with a bang!

Day 7 = Spa Day

Which included facials, manicures, and pedicures. Gotta look good for school!

Skinny minis

2010-08-22T22:31:00.000-07:00

We're in the market for a double stroller...

...until then, we're taking advantage of the only bonus for having skinny kids.

P.S. Thanks for your concern; August seems to be doing much better. Who knew that he could sleep for 10-11 hours when void of coughing and pain?!

Elephant in the room

2010-08-18T21:41:00.000-07:00

August has had a never-ending, reoccurring, no good, nasty cough for about 7 months. Luckily, he is the happiest sick baby on the planet (except when you try to give him medicine!). It was all very bearable until he added several new symptoms this week - like vomiting so much that his car seat was dripping.

Here are a few images of the first three seconds of a 30 MINUTE breathing treatment:

"You think these bags are going to distract me?"

"I prefer to chew on this part, thank you"

"Now I'm starting to get angry!"

This session ended with every tube and strap ripped off at least once and medicine all over the floor. I just hope he is getting enough in his system to make it all worthwhile.

P.S. This ordeal is to be repeated three times a day.

P.S.S. Did I mention the two other meds we are choking down his throat? Who invented the dissolving tablet for babies?

P.S.S.S. Now imagine chest x-rays.

Celebrating 8-6-08 to 8-6-10, in other words, LIFE!

2010-08-17T20:29:00.000-07:00

What do you get when you add seven super-heroes...

(Wilson, Weston, Eden, Colin, Cooper, August, and Brooks - Hudson, not pictured)

A Super Heart Fairy...

(my cousin, Kate)

Heart Birthday Cupcakes....

Two proud parents....

and one amazing little girl?

A Super-Hero Heart Birthday party!

Here's to two more years with this wonderful girl!

Our real life Super-Hero!

He's done it again!

2010-08-09T20:00:00.000-07:00

For the love of this girl, her new heart, and the amazing doctors that have kept her in our lives - Brian endured the Courage Classic, a 3-day, 175 mile bike ride to raise money for The Children's Hospital (in Denver).

Brain has turned himself into quite the cyclist these last couple of years. Although athletics come fairly natural to him, his training has been inspired by Eden's annual heart transplant anniversary - which happens to fall just after this event every year. I can't wait for the year that we are able to do this together (I'm secretly jealous because I always thought of myself as the cyclist in the family). Maybe we'll even get strong enough to pull the kids one year!

But this year we just joined him for the last night and met him at the finish line...

and we celebrated... aaaagain... (that's the jealously coming out :)

We are so proud of you, Brian (Daddy)!

Fourth of July Make-Up

2010-08-08T22:22:00.000-07:00

We spent the Fourth of July in Denver for the first time in years. Turns out it's a pretty fun place to celebrate! We filled our day with the Cherry Creek Art's Festival, our neighborhood parade, and dinner and fireworks with my brother Aaron, Leslie and Grandma Nene. As you can see, Eden partied strong all day long!

Busy Summer :)

2010-07-29T21:31:00.000-07:00

We have been so busy this summer! Brian has been traveling almost every week for work and I've been dabbling in some work as well. So, needless to say, managing two kiddos with swim lessons, t-ball, and a few vacations has started to take it's toll. We're trying out a new family strategy where the kids help out around the house....
What do you think?

August reads us the paper in the morning:

Eden cooks the meals:

And they are both learning to read to each other:

Eden's even helping me stock up on some extra breast-milk:

Thanks for pitching in, kids! You really are the best! Heehee...

Northwest Tour: Part 1

2010-07-23T09:00:00.000-07:00

We recently returned from a fun tour of the northwest. Instigated by Brian's cousin's wedding (Neil) in Portland, then added a mini-vacation to the San Juan Islands, as well as a "Tia vacation" for Eden in Seattle with her aunt Erin and cousin Ali.

Eden loves weddings (well, receptions, technically)! I think it's the combination of dancing, family, dancing, cake, dancing, friends and dancing. She has been a flower girl and will most likely be a bridesmaid one day, but if there ever is a need for a permanent figure on the dance floor... she would take that job in a heart beat!

This night, she wasn't feeling so well. In fact, I fed her quite a few bags of fruit chews just to keep up her energy during the ceremony. We even needed Tylenol at the beginning of the reception. But once that music started there was no stopping her. When it finally reached the time to carry her out of there, we had to have the DJ dedicate a last song and wish her sweet dreams.

Any other weddings coming up? Need a wedding crasher?

NW Tour Part 2

2010-07-22T01:14:00.000-07:00

After the wedding in Portland, we dropped Eden off in Seattle and snuck up to the San Juan Islands for a mini-vacation with August. (Brian's sister, Erin (aka Tia), had planned a special vacation for the girls in Seattle.)

As much as this boy loves his big sister, I think he relished in a couple of days of complete attention from both parents.

We walked out on False Bay.

We watched the whales

with our wonderful host and tour guide, Rosalie.

Unfortunately, my pictures don't do justice to this experience.

It was whale soup out there and I couldn't catch a single breaching whale on camera!

What a wonderful location to get away and relax.