The Sanders Fam!

Life in the new year

2012-01-20T13:40:00.000-08:00

This year has brought so much laziness! I am realizing that this is my time to enjoy, and relax in the stage we're in. No school for any of my children yet, means some days, the kids are not changed out of jammies till 10:30 in the morning. I know! I never thought I'd be one of those parents, but as McDonalds says 'I'm LOVIN IT!'

I am in complete SHOCK to think that we've been here nearly 2 YEARS! This is just a before and after glimpse, and a quick look at how time flies!!

Oh glory days! It was literally over 60 degrees the other day, so we packed up all the neighborhood kids, and headed to the park!

It started to snow, and it kept coming! So, Charlie in great excitement said 'LETS BUILD FROSTY!!!' so we did!

The snow was perfect for a pack, and being that it was so warm, Charlie was out in it for over an hour! (Lucy on the other hand thought it was much to dirty for her, and kept getting her wet. Go figure!)

(Henry calls snow 'SANTA' and insists on exclaiming SANTA when he sees anything that even looks like snow. Salt. cotton. powder...)

Eat your heart out, Ladies! And this man can cook!

Lucy took this picture of me and Charlie! There were some really cute ones, but blurry!

Things of interest :

- Hanks favorite book is Gossie. Its about a duck, who has red boots, and looses them. This kid can talk. and talk. and talk.

Favorite things to eat are carrots and peppers. Really, he'll cry till he gets them. Fine by me.

- Charlie will often be quoted saying 'remember I'm Space guy' or 'Spider man' and insist on being called that. Loves to pretend and obey Lucys orders (not sure that that is a love...)

Favorite food, apples

-Lucy is still crazy about her babies, and is quite the little mother, (to us all)

Chows dinner, just to eat desert (which usually consists of cookies or some other concoction)

Things are well in the Sanders home! Not so busy, but oh so blessed!!!

You know the drill

2011-12-30T11:13:00.000-08:00

In order to be exact, to the point, quick and refreshing, I'll just give a glimpse into the Sanders holiday.

- Saw our favorite Santa (brought to you by the F.C. volunteer Fire Dep. ) riding on a decked out, music playing fire truck! We love this tradition.

- Hand out treats not only to neighbors, but to some of our best friends, the garbage men!

- Ate Cornish Game Hens, Spanish Rice, steamed veggies, toasted baguette and Old Fashion Chocolate Cake on Christmas Eve! (YUM!)

- Opened Christmas jammies (YAY GRANNIE. LOVE THEM!)

-Put reindeer food out for Rudolph (we forgot to put the cookies out! Sorry Santa!)

-Got eye infections, double ear infections, hand rashes, NO sleep (and still counting), hacking coughs, colds, throat issues.....

- then Christmas came, that next day.

-It has been a holiday to remember, and sorry to say, we are glad its over!!!

- and on one last note- Happy New YEAR!!!!

Mr. C turns 3!!!

2011-12-19T17:38:00.001-08:00

In preparing for the holidays, the Sanders Children have done their fair share of cookie decorating (and eating....) and using these foam stickie thingies to make wonderful creations,

all for Santa.

Note what is in Lucys hand.

That would be one large Jalapeno pepper.

Charlie and Lucy do love those mini peppers, so when they happened on this beauty, they both took a LARGE bite.

I mean LARGE!!!

I was not in the room, and Charlie came roaming into the bathroom, (some what delusional, with green foam coming out of his mouth), I put on my detective hat, cloak and glasses, I knew instantly what had happened!

They chopped this beautiful grean beast!

I felt awful, but not awful enough not to take a picture!!

(yes, they got a little milk and treat to ease the burn!!)

Oh Charlie! Chars, Char Bar, Brother Bear, Mr. C, how we adore YOU!

This boy is so sweet! He is as tender hearted as they come, but slower then molasses!

Favorite things would include long potty encounters, looking for mice, (can I even say that), drinks of any kind (they are special occasion around here), obeying Lucys orders, asking anyone to do anything for him, knowing they'll do it....

This Sweet Joy turned 3 on the 15th!!

I remember when he was a baby! Boy do I ever!

I never thought I could ever love that little sole, but I have made up for (so has he) the crazy baby days of neglect.

Charlie, let it be said, I adore you! I love you! I love that you stroll into my room just after 7, let out about 15 sneezes, pace for a few minutes, then with a LARGE grin on your darling face say

'I have to go potty'. I love you my sweet boy!

Happy Birthday

He has been in love with Spiderman. I don't know what it is, and frankly, have no clue where he's gotten so much information about this super hero, but thank heavens Craigslist came through on the Spiderman side of things!

Heres Charlie, and Hank, in their new tunnel/tent (from G&G, thank you very much!!) showing his spidee off!

We had a little party with some of his friends.

Nothing more then a little food, crafts and fun, but its so cute to see your kids play with and enjoy other kids! It was so fun, and we are glad to have friends.

Wearing their Spiderman masks, going to hunt for their candy filled Spiderman buckets.

Miss Lucy, ready for Church in a pre-Christmas photo op.

This picture is so funny!

Its like those wedding pictures where the couple kisses, and everyone makes a funny face.

But this time, its Henry making the funny face, and us not looking...

(ok. so its nothing like those wedding pictures.)

S.A.N.T.A

Heres the deal.

Santa is in a big 'trailer' just off the White House lawn,

just down from the National Christmas Tree.

We went. We enjoyed, but after asking for 'a Zinko' (charlie) and a baby doll (lucy) they promptly asked 'but mamma, where is the real Santa?'

Wow! I have no idea where they learned that, or figured he had to have a hat, and whiter beard (and teeth) but as disappointed as they may have been, we still enjoyed the great trains that circle the Christmas Tree, and the eternally great weather.

We are so ready for Christmas, (not even half way ready) but hope to get there, and continue enjoying this magical time of year!!

Gird up yer loins!

2011-12-06T17:36:00.001-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving!

Per our usual tradition, we dined at our neighbors casa.

There was plenty of food, plenty of noise, and plenty of people.

Plenty of all those things were enjoyed!!

For thanksgiving, I am grateful for (first time ever) we woke up the morning after, and my hubs had decided to be spontaneous!! (Y.E.S) We packed the car, threw in the kids, and headed up north to...

Yes, it says 'intercourse'. Intercourse, Pa. that is!

We jotted up the road to Pa to see Amish country (THRILLING) and Valley Forge.

We stayed in the most A.MAZING hotel!! a 2 bedroom SUITE. (That means 3 T.Vs!!) My children are limited with screen time, but on vacay, its no holds bar!! We all had our own T.V!! It was HEAVEN! My HGTV was not turned off for one min. oh, with one exception. We had a full kitchen!! It rocked! Full size fridge, stove, microwave, dishwasher...and this is the feast i prepared! Yum!

Getting a tour of the local digs.

How many Sanders fit in a buggy? I tell you, 5 ! (good thing we're ok with 3 kiddos!)

Becoming educated on the history of Valley Forge.

Meet Mr. and Mrs. Washington

Got myself one fine fella!

On a BEAUTIFUL stroll to see the abandoned forts.

Can you believe the view? The weather was SPECTACULAR!!

Just a dream!!!

Contrary to what ya'll may thing, there are not so many bridges round these parts anymore.

According to a kind sister, she informed me they have nearly all been destroyed or burned down.

Lucy us, we were able to see a few!

The trip was a joy! I love my family! I love my husband, and am such a happier person when we are all together! I don't think he could possibly hate work as much as I hate him going to work!

We had a great time! Lots of relaxing, jammin to songs in the car, suckers, tv time, beautiful walks, delicious food...so enjoyable!

Our weather here as been crazy! the monday after we got back, we headed to see the lighting parade in Vienna. It was obviously warm enough for a light jacket, and shorts, December 1st!!!

(Mother nature sure does make up for the pesky bugs in summer time!)

The kids roasting marshmallows @ the lighting ceremony.

Finally, Christmas can officially come!

We made and decorated our cookies (and ate and ate and ate them!)

Please don't tell me I'm the only mother who feels crazy lying to my innocent children about Santa?

I find myself saying 'he's Magic' and 'Santa has to go to the potty just like us' and 'yes, Santa loves you to' and 'Santa can fly in the sky on a sled' I mean really? Who decided that deceiving our children and corrupting their beautiful minds with such nonsense would be good for them?

Oh my poor babies. I am a bad mother!!!

Love you sweeties!

Until I come up with a better solution, just eat more cookies.

Weekly Announcements

2011-11-20T11:11:00.000-08:00

The weather has been spectacular!

We've played in our thousands of leaves, and enjoyed the

beautiful Virginia fall!

Some of the highlights of these last few weeks have been

book reading on a sunny bed,

celebrating Jeffs 35th BIRTHDAY!!!!!

Metro rides, down town excursions,

participating fully in recycling....

Life is SO good!

The other day, my den became what looked like a waste land, and you know what, I loved it!

I loved that i was home, with my babies, making disasters, not cooking dinner, NOTHING to do, but just loving that moment in life!

I am thankful!

I am so so SO thankful for my life, MY life!

I have an amazing man I call husband, and father.

3 children I just love to the moon and back, and health.

I am beyond blessed! Hope ya'll are enjoying this beautiful season, and happy harvest!!!

Picture Purge

2011-11-03T17:55:00.000-07:00

There is no logical explanation of these last 3 weeks.

Things have been just a hurricane at our house.

With out further adue, and with no boring explaining (per Jeff's request) I'll simply bullet my updates. (looking back, it all happened about this fast anyway)

The following serves as the Sanders Family October update!

I'll re-tell the first day of when this saga all began.

It was Saturday, the 22nd. The following is what went down:

5:50am. wake up, get out the door for my usual 5 mile run, back by 6:40 to clean up, pack my lunch, change and bundle up for a bike ride to the crepe stand. 7am-1pm, work in the brisk cold making and serving delicious crepes to the farmers market shoppers, 1:20 pm, zoom up the drive way on my bike to find out YES, I have work @ 1:45, doing some design consulting, 20 min. away.

Shower, do make up in the car, present myself to Burnedette and Scott, present and talk design concept, leave @ 4:45, get home to change into halloween costumes for the family. 5:30, out the door to pick up 22 DOZEN donughts, and 8 gallons of drinks for the party, 6 trunk or treat, 8pm, head for home.

Its no wonder I threw the plastic pumpkin @ Jeff!

And let the story begin!!!!!

In no order:

-Grannie came to town

-we hit up Alexandrias candy shops, and water front

-Girls day to lunch and Lucketts, Va.

-COX FARM w/grannie. a HIGHLIGHT!

-Jeff stole me away for 2 days and a night!!! to celebrate my 30th!

-worked over 35 hours in one week for Welch Contractors! (we've got some great projects, but they've kept me busy)

-(those hours exclude the Crepe Stand hours)

-Decorating and designing nearly 10 signs for a halloween party

-Preformed an Indian cooking Demo

-Organized and ran an pumpkin party

- Going to the gym @ 2am, because I couldn't sleep

-Planning our Christ Centered Fireside, in 1 week

-Picnic dinner on Signers Island

-Raspberry picking and Butlers Farm

-Fire safety day @ FC Fire Station #702

- Ran the MCM 10K for my birthday!

-Lucy going to birthday parties

-trunk or treats

-Did I mention I turned 30!!!?!?!?

-Hair Cuts

-Letting the kids GORGE on candy. And they did, and you know what, no one asked for a treat the rest of the day! (only 10 more pieces to go!!!)

-Lucys 4th birthday. (4, oh my!) Puppet Show, Musical Squares, Necklace Making...

-Wow, why does this not sound like a lot??

I'm disappointed. I've been exhausted. To make my self feel better, I'll add these to the list, the mother usuals: laundry, dinner, diarrhea clean up, nose wiping, driving to and from Dance, Sports Class, Nature Class, Tumbling, Play group, yelling at my children, exercise, grocery shopping, sweeping the floor a billion times, King Frosting the windows, mopping the floors x2, cleaning the toilets x3, raking up the billions of leaves, baking and taking halloween treats around, shopping for birthday parties, cooking classes, work supplies, FOOD, birthday gifts..

Whatever. Its done.

Hope ya'll had an extraordinary October! Bring on the holidays!

Life got CRAzY

2011-09-27T17:22:00.000-07:00

(Read at your own risk. This post is putting even the author to SLEEP)

Our date night, sponsored by 'Groupons'

We're pretty much their number one customers!

Jeff was more then thrilled when we couldn't find the Quizno's and were forced to eat at

Chick Filet. We had ourselves one happy man.

We had a perfect night out. Just us. Dinner and a movie. Oh, it was so needed!

One of the greatest places in DC. Just outside the Regan Airport is this park.

Perfect for testing just how sensitive your ears are.

Some of those airplanes literally shake the ground.

Ok. I get so tired of explaining things, which I'm sure bore whatever readers may glance here now and then, so for the sake of things, I'll let the kids do the talking....

L: We like to eat. What can I say.

H: Oh, this fool, if she even things she'll be racin' us, she's out of her MIND!

C: I think if I hold onto my brother long enough, we'll never have to go clean our room!

(Ok. This is me talking)

Girls night out @ the National Harbor! A BLAST! Little did Jeff know his hand was not the only one I held that day...

(Nor was his the only mouth I fed...)

And the rain rain rain came down down DOWN!

Heres the first view of what is now known as the GREAT SANDERS RIVER.

Yup. Right down our driveway.

Dear Tropical Storm Lee: you did more damage to our little house then

Hurrican Ireen even threatened to. Thank you for flooding our basement, making us sweep our flooded porch every 15 min. and leaving us hostage in our house for 5 DAYS.

C: I'm so tired of walking, I can't even smile.

My mamma and dadda took us to see the Maryland side of 'Great Falls'

And boy was it great, and for the record, greater then the Virginia side, so TAKE THAT!

H: Is this dude touching my arm pit?

C: I'm just hoping that if I sit here, and don't smile, that they'll stop taking pictures.

L: Is that a snack they are having? Why couldn't WE bring food?

H: I swear, this belly was NOT here last night.

H: Check me out LADIES. First day of Nursery. The line starts at the door.

L: I wonder if I keep zooming down my neighbors driveway, straight into his garage door, if one of these times I might just render it dysfunctional.

C: I wonder if i could take a chick with me on this SWEET ride.

L: Oh Charlie, me wearing this night gown, in the middle of the day, in 85+ weather is not nearly as funny as what mamma put you in.

C: Maybe this scooter will learn to ride itself.

L: Yup. these are my brothers.

C: As much as it may pain me, I think Lucy is my best friend.

H: They think I have no idea what they are saying.

L: FINALLY! My first day of Tumbling!

I LOVED it!

I have a dance class and play group during the week, but I love my Tumbling class.

L: This is my teacher, and my class. From sitting right here, I can spy my favorite part of Tumbling, the big trampoline we get to jump on !

I can't wait to go back.

C: Henry, do you know why we're covering our ears?

H: C.O.L.D.

I don't know why my mamma agreed to fill up our swimming pool in late September,

but the bubbles did add a nice touch.

L: Look at those two crazies.

Do they even realize how messy with bubbles they are getting?

H: Such a rare find. A fall leaf from our very own tree, in MY pool!

H: Baby steps out of the pool. Baby steps out of the pool. Baby steps out of the pool.

RISE AND SHINE CAMPERS!!!

YOU MADE IT TO ANOTHER DAY!!!!!!

Come back again soon, won't you?

Harpers Ferry

2011-09-07T18:20:00.000-07:00

Frying Pan Farm

this day will go down in history as the beginning of Lucys week LONG fever/sleep for 15hrs a day/evening rash week. We went to the farm, and completely unrelated, Lucy got really sick.

Glad we had some fun before though.

Surprise, Hank!

Love love L.O.V.E

Hank the tank in control.

A sample of breakfast. Eggs, cinnamon toast and home bottled peaches

Wait for it....

must be F.R.I.DAY! Garbage day.

This morning will never be dull at our home!

We did it again. 2 things.

Went to Harpers Ferry, WV. again, and took another trip with the McCooks.

This was on the what we'd find out to be the tail end of Lucys sickness.

Much to my disappointment, I spent more time taking care of her then vacationing, but I decided I would rather be up there with family and friends, in the fresh air, then stuck at home.

Don't mis-understand. I love my children, but having her illness come this weekend was just well, in convenient. ( Is it ever convenient?)

I was delighted to spend time with my Lucy girl, but missed out on some of the fun.

Charlie and Tristan playing with the 10$ flea market finds.

Also not picture are the late night game fest's, miniature golf challenges, swimming excursions, food creations, L.O.N.G walks to the bathrooms, Andrea winning Monopoly, yelling at the neighbors for to much noise, all you can eat pancakes every morning (a highlight for Dave)

late night root beer chugs....so much to share, so little space.

Rise and shine campers! A beautiful morning in H.F.

The bus ride into town.

Teach a man to roast a hot dog and feed a nation.

(or the saying goes something like that, right?)

Charlie has been a dream. He's always been such a tender/kind/sensitive boy, but he has been 200% of that lately, and it just melts my heart!

He always says 'thank you' after been given breakfast or lunch.

LOVES milk with his brekkie (breakfast)

If I won't help him with something, he goes right to Lucy for help (which he always gets)

Is doing MUCH better at saying his 'L's' right now they're w's. (for example , woocie is Lucy, whyun is lion, wook is look. Keep trying chars!)

cannot get enough of him!

Sorry, is this picture grainy? Oh well, you get the idea!

And this photo was the last time we came! Look at those babies!

Resting on the stairs as we climbed to some rock.

Dave, what exactly were we noting on this particular excursion? :)

Hank making his fish face

And here they are, in all their glory, ready for the 60+ miles that lay ahead of them,

but have no fear, any problem they were to encounter, those spandex pants would ward off any danger!

Jeff and Dave biked back home, and despite the horrible weather, had a great time!

Just before the kids and I got in the car, they found what would be the best memory of the trip. The McCooks had spilled their mints, and knowing my children, they could smell treats a mile away.

They immediately began sifting out the 'good ones' and bad ones, and the rest is history.

Lucy showing me 'see, this is a good one'

Wow, look at all that dirt on Charlies!

My kids really don't like to get dirty, but when it comes to food, they'll do anything!

Happy little helpers! Must have been mop day at the Sanders home.

I've been so overcome lately... with not only the attention needed for these little ones, but also gratitude for their healthy, growing bodies! Not a day goes by that I don't recognize and appreciate that!

I am so blessed!

When life gives you hurricanes....

2011-08-28T17:28:00.001-07:00

When life gives you hurricanes, AND earthquakes, make memories!!!

This post is going backwards, as to keep the most exciting and relevant news FIRST!

Sunday, no church. CANCELED due to the pending hurricane we were to expect.

We made our way to Burke Lake for an evening of water fun and picnicking.

This was the view out our door Sunday morning. Saturday it rained and rained and RAINED all day, with wind and such, but the damage (if thats what you call it) happened Sunday morning. We were fine. It just made for a very lazy, slow weekend, but who doesn't want that every now and then.

THIS was the view Saturday afternoon. When life gives you hurricanes, make pie!

This was no ordinary pie!!! This was Pennsylvania's STATE pie competition winner.

Blueberry, apple, peach pie. Complete with a crumb top UNDER that exquisite lattice top.

We found our selves waiting for the hurricane to begin, so I made pie, called some friends, and had our selfs a pizza pie hurricane party!

(In the back of the pie, a sampling of the peaches and tomatoes that were canned)

Should you ever find yourself in the eye of a hurricane, this party is strongly recommended!

The view, from the only space in the kitchen on Wed. night.

I'd spend the day filling my car with peaches, tomatoes, cantaloupe, corn, nectarines and plums, from farms up near Pennsylvania.

Some to eat, some to make into pies (see ABOVE!!!) and some to can.

I canned canned and CANNED all yummie things we'll enjoy well into the winter.

Jeff came into the kitchen and so kindly said "thanks for doing this hun."

Truly, I can't imagine not canning. I'm no expert, but it is so nestalgic for me, and reminds me of when I was so little, dripping down to my armpits, while watching 'the Nomb mobile' , huddled around our wobbly kitchen table, making so many memories...

I can't wait for my kids to join in the memories.

Up next, picking berries for jams at Buttler Farm!

The picnic lunch we enjoyed after stopping at nearly every farmers stand in Ma!

Day Care? I think not, but look at all these beauties!

My friend Kari, her 3 girls and my gang and I were the crazies who ventured to collect all the tastiest fruits and veggies Ma. had to offer.

We made our way to a fish hatchery.

SO fun! Kair and I both remember doing things like this when we were younger,

and couldn't help but attempt at creating fond memoirs for our children as well.

SCARIEST.DAY.EVER.

I know it doesn't look like much, but this day will go down in my memory forever.

I was in the kitchen, cleaning up from a fun day at Cabin John Park, when I though I both felt and heard what was an enormous collapsing book case.

I yelled to Charlie, who I though was the cause of this immediate shaking, and he didn't respond.

I rushed into the den, still feeling and hearing the shaking.

I could feel the home rattle, the floors above vibrate, pictures falling, windows shaking...

I yelled to Lucy and Charlie to GET OUT SIDE.

I ran to Henrys room, he was sound asleep in his bed, with his hands over his ears.

I wasn't sure what to make of this immediate shaking. I was honestly expecting any second my home to explode, and myself to be blown out from the force of an explosion.

I thought it was the water heater, or broiler, or ac going to explode.

What seemed like minutes late, it stopped, and i realized it was an earthquake.

A 5.9 earthquake.

I ran outside, only to be met with my darling 11 yr. old neighbor, in tears, saying she thinks there was an earthquake, can't get a hold of her mom, and didn't know what to do!

We were both scared to death, in tears, and I just squeezed her!

Luckly I was in the middle of making cookies, so invited them in, to eat and hopefully forget the scary moment.

Truth, now that its over, it was (I guess) not that major, but that night I didn't stop shaking for 4 hours.

I've never been so worried/scared/afraid/helpless/hopeless/terrified in my LIFE!

It took Jeff over 3 hours to get home, and Lucy still keeps telling people "Charlie made our house shake" they remember, as do I, and we're so thankful it wasn't larger, and to be safe!!!

Earlier that day, at Cabin John park, the one with the amazing train! SO FUN!

so.in.love.

Worried what I've begun. Since the boys don't have pockets big enough for things like stuffed bees, and puppies, I figured what better place then their pants.

Don't judge. Seemed like a good idea at the time.

And henry, showing his #2 battle wound of 4!! (all within in 2 days) this kid, in the words of our neighbor 'its a good thing he's made of rubber!'

We've had such a fun/scary/exciting/record breaking/memorable week, I'm just so blessed!

Funny things my kids have said this week

Charlie - Hey dadda, is it summer? (yes) ok, thats why we're going to do summer salts.

Lucy- (as we drove past an electrical crew, restoring power today), I said 'there's a man in a cherry picker' Lucy said - yeah, he's going to pick all those cherries, and give so many to everybody.

Charlie- we're going to plant an apple pit (seed) in our back, and its going to get big, and be an apple tree, and we'll pick and pick all the apples to fill all our house.

Oh how I enjoy these darlings!

Luckiest kids ever

2011-08-14T18:22:00.000-07:00

There was a free Sesame Street 'Big Bird in the Sky' show going on at the

National Air and Space Smithsonian, so the kids and I jumped on the metro and rode ourselves into town.

(They Love love L.O.V.E the metro. Charlie has talked about it every day sense)

We met up with some friends, and Lucy saw what was her FIRST movie

(although it was only 12 min.) on the big screen. I think that will suffice for now.

After, we HAD to get some fries.

Look at this face. How is it that I ever say 'No' ?

View these next three pictures as a slide.

Its a no wonder we call him 'Hank the Tank'

This was EXACTY one year ago, same museum, same seats, same fries

(probably the same grease as well. ) (My gosh how time flies....)

If you want to have one of the best nights of your life, take your kids to a County Fair!

This was the Arlington County Fair. And man did we splurge...the kids got 2 rides each!

(insert future comment from one of them complaining that they only got 2 rides. )

They each chose their own, but this decision was mutual...CROSS COUNTRY ADVENTURE

Sounds like we need another road trip.

Dinner.

I hate to disappoint, but the Sanders Family did not consume a Funnel cake.

It wasn't the seemingly risky grease, or the possible hair in the batter, rather the 8$ price tag that was associated with the deep fried morsel of dough.

I just couldn't wrap my frugal mind around that one.

So dinner at the fair was our own lovely picnic.

Penini's, strawberries, bananas, salad, mixed bag of chips and olives! Delish!

Lucy, even after seeing over a dozen rides to choose form, never wavered from her initial excitement or decision to choose the swings.

I think she had seen some swings that really send kids flying, but this one was a bit more mellow, which may have disappointed a bit, but hey kid, you live and learn.

Charlie holding his 3 tickets which would get him on his 2nd ride of choice, the jeep racers.

And then there's Hank the Tank

This character didn't get a ride. Not a single one, but once arriving at McD's for desert, he got all he could dream of.

Not only a seat in a classic McD's high chair (which Jeff tried to convince me we should steal)

but he got and up close view of a racing fire truck.

This kid loves a good loud siren (although scares him to death)

so I'm glad it made his evening complete.

What would I do if I had more then one daughter? I'm sure I'd love her, but its my favorite thing to tell Lucy, 'you're my favorite girl!!!' and I mean it!

We love our 'girl time' and I think I need it more then she does.

Saturday, we went for a little lunch/snack at one of my favorite places on earth.

Heidelburgh Bakery.

Jeff scouted this place when trying to find a mothers day gift for me,

and its been a favorite sence.

Lucy could pick anything. ANY-THING! Cakes, doughnuts, cookies, pastries, chocolates, croissants....and she picked a sugar bee. (oh, and a sugar lion) Couldn't have been happier.

Gosh, I love this girl!

Come play!

Come play on any one of our free toys scattered in our back yard.

Ok, thats not true.

I did buy the big slide at D.I. but everything else was free, and thats just how we like it!

Stop by, we'll cook up something fabulous in our new outside house.

The weathers been much cooler (like 80's for both heat and humidity) which is so thrilling,

and gets us excited for fall!

Back in the saddle

2011-08-02T17:45:00.000-07:00

Just livin' the life here, but doing exactly what? Take a peek.

I found Lucy, posed perfectly in this chair, while Charlie snapped photos of here and her baby, with their pretend camera. He was even saying "smile".

Jeff loves him some spanish lessons.

You should hear him!

It goes from pretty good sounding spanish, to sometimes border line chinese.

I'm proud of this little burrito, just wishing he'd whip out a few more phrases now and then.

If you're looking for Lucy and Charlie, check behind the couch.

Henry has not found their stash of toys they don't want him into yet,

but when he does....oh trouble!

Ok. You try living without something for 18 Months, and see how you cope!

Me, it was my beloved CAFE RIO!

I know, ya'll who have one are just thinking, its good, we get it. But let me tell you,

it was not just good....

oh melt in my mouth never eaten so fast GOOD!!

Crazy that the only 2 STATES they have stores in on the East Coast are Maryland and VA!

Oh blessed day!

You can bet that I gobbled up ONE WHOLE SALAD,

(which I'm not sure if I've ever even done that. )

Loved loved loved it. AND they're building one right by us! Thank you Cafe R!!

So, Charlie had a little incident at the neighbors home, which forced him to walk home with out his pants on.

Unfortunately for him, the shoes he wore over there were the purple princess ones,

which made for the perfect picture opt.

We had ourselves a little firework show to celebrate Pioneer Day.

Please take a look at Lucys face.

Poor girl I think will be scared of smoke/steam/fire for her entire life.

Um, yes, those are my kids.

And this is what Henry did on my lap. THE. WHOLE. TIME.

We had a birthday party to go to.

It was NOT a costume party.

Nor was it a dress up party.

However, Charlie went as Peter Pan, and Lucy as a dance.

Honestly its so rare for my kids to play in dress ups, that I seize the day when they do.

Snuck in some time to catch up on some reading.

Still a favorite past time for all of them.

Can I just tell you what a hunk Chars is?

Hes still so sweet, tender and like the song "Old man River"

but we do worry about his confidence and his own self esteem. Thoughts?

We just don't want him to get lost in the mix, and then have it be to late to remedey.

It only took us 7 years to replace our Ice Cream maker!!

We got one for our wedding, from the Rix, thank you very much, but soon after let a friend borrow it, and it was returned broken....

SO.....here it is, the maiden voyage of the new ice cream maker!

Just pretending that they're flying to Utah.

(wonder where they came up with that....)

(actually that implied we are coming, and we're not. I just meant they hear that word a lot)

I love you Craigslist.

Posted 3 baby things on there, SOLD for 40 bucks.

Turned right around and bought ourselfs a second bike trailer, for 35 bucks!

Boughta bam boughta boom.

8 States in 8 DAYS

2011-07-18T11:30:00.001-07:00

Virginia: Starting Location

through: Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island and Massachusetts.

We planned a 10 day camping trip, up the East Coast, through some of New England.

Although these pictures don't come close in explaining the things we saw, adventures we had, or memories we made, perhaps they'll give you a glimpse into the great time that was spent!

I wish I was lying when I say the kids did FANTASTIC in the car.

They read books, sang, made neclaces, ate, sang, ate, slept, told stories....They were just super troopers.

First stop, once past the New Jersey Turnpike, (every bit as congested as you've heard of) MYSTIC Connecticut. Whatever you've seen or heard about New England, came true on our trip, especially after spending the night in Mystic. It was a charming little town, with all the charm. Draw bridges, sail boats, Ice Cream shops. One of my favorite places on earth!

Welcome to Newport, RI.

Among other things, we took a boat cruise around some of the famous homes that surround this area.

The money people have is just astounding, but I can guarantee if I had that type of money, I'd buy a second home up in a heart beat.

We also took a sail over toMarthas Vineyard. This island proved to be every bit as charming as I'd heard. Plus, was home to the most fantastic, detailed cottages, USA's first mary-go-round and beaches.

Check this out! Our very own Charlie was the winner of the gold ring. While riding the mary-go-round, the riders are suppose to collect rings, and whoever gets the ONE gold ring gets a free ride. Way to go Chars.

The trip was not with out tears, but lucky for Hank, he won't remember a thing!

Our great camp site!

The kids kept busy with cars, turns on the red chair, stacking the pine needles, and making friends with other campers. One of our favorite nights was enjoyed an invitation for a beer and fire with some fellow campers (or in our case, flavored water)! They were there for 2 weeks, from Quebec, had kids around the same ages, and we really enjoyed our time with them

After days at the beach, Martha's Vineyard, swimming at the camp site we set sail for P town, otherwise know as Province Town, the last town on the very cape of Cape cod.

It was quite the cultural shock, as P Town is know for its appeal to Gays. We certainly we out numbered, but loved the sea smell, views of the water, and our first bowl of Clam Chowda!

Rise and shine campers!!! Camping for Jeff was a bit more difficult then he'd anticipated, being that the kids required laying with every night, and woke up nice and early. However early, this one took the cake, 5:30 am. complete with poop in the panties, we made our way as fast as we could out to breakfast.

Dare I say this was my favorite day? Mayflower beach inDennis Ri. At first glance, this beach was no ordinary place. But due to limited parking, and the crowds, we knew there had to be something special.

Sure enough, around 11:00 am the tide starts going out, and you're left with little inlets of 6" deep water, or soft, water soaked sand.

It was a DREAM beach, ideal for children, crab hunders, or anyone hoping to enjoy the sun.

Soon after our Cannon Cameras battery ran out, we made our way to Plymoth Plantation. We got great in site from native indians, and the english men.

We also jumped aboard the MayflowerII, that was an exact replica, that once sailed across to the Americas. It was a fantastic display and tour. ( The candy shop as well was a favorite)

Ok, maybe I was joking when I said my favorite place, because Boston Ma. may take the cake! We were blown away at the cities cleanliness, child friendly activities and obvious historical attractions. Boston had some of our favorite highlights. Frog Pond, the down town market, Charles street, and the Freedom Trail. The kids were troopers as we followed the 3 plus mile walk, taking us through historical land marks and homes.

Our final day began with breakfast out for Charlie and me, and early morning swim for Luce, Jeff and Hank in Boston, a quick tour of Yale Univ. and ended with a Seafood Feast, fit for any king, in Hagerstown, Md. Some of the trips highlights were (or low lights) cruising past traffic, on the opposite side, and only getting stuck at the New Jersey Turnpike, Getting stuck under the Marriott parking garage, (with our roof top carrier), Lucy pooping her pants for the FIRST time, EVER, record flooding rains, as we tried to sleep in our tent, eating rice, pasta and corn for one nights dinner, Lucy and Charlie going to the bathroom, in our car (in various "containers") because we simply could not afford to stop. (that sounded scarier then it really was, and for the sake that I'm sure my mom is already cringing, I'll spare the details, but I can assure it was nothing to traumatizing, waking up what seemed like earlier and earlier each morning....

Jeff said, "I don't even want to think about the next vacation" and the next day, I said " whens our trip to the beach? "

We'll see where we head next, but for now will enjoy looking at our pictures of this adventure.

2011-07-18T11:27:00.000-07:00

Pittsburgh Pa, and the 4th

2011-07-05T10:24:00.001-07:00

Thursday I mowed the lawn, while these darlings watched, with their babies and lawn chairs.

After the big mow, I ventured to WOLF TRAP for the evenings performance of

Mamma Mia!!!

It was a very last minute evening, but thanks to Andrea, was a fantastic night!!!

Going to Wolf Trap was on my Bucket List, and it was such a great evening, I hope to take Jeff and any other visitors there.

All set for the Americas Birthday!

Friday morning, at the crack of dawn we had the car loaded for our trip to Pittsburgh.

Some friends mentioned they were going for the weekend, so we invited our selves along, and before you know it, we were off to see Pa!

The drive up went great, with a 2 hr. layover at a charming park in Shellenberger, Pa.

I may have not come to appreciate the beauty of Pennsylvania before, but after driving through much of its landscape, realized how hilly, lush and diverse this state is.

Our first stop was the "Snows Nuthouse".

We know the Snows from Utah, and over various circumstances have seen one another!

We were delighted to spend time with Kris and Mike, and their charming children!

We talked, ate, talked, laughed, talked, laughed till we cried, played games, talked..

Kris, it was a dream! Thank you!!

We cannot wait to be with you again.

Day One:

The Duquesne incline and Mt. Washington.

This city may only be know for its past mining history, but I will tell you it is SPECTACULAR!

The water, bridges and tunnels took our breath away.

Waiting a turn on the "train".

A cable car that takes you down the mountain side, and back up again.

I think even brave Hank was a bit hesitant for this ride.

Lunch was a picnic on the lawn near the "Tower of Learning"

Andrea and her servants waiting to counsel us.

I still am not sure what the purpose of this very large and often lavish building was,

but it was fun to see the unique rooms as they each portrayed countries learning styles.

Lucy couldn't wait to get back to the hotel and swim, so thats just what we did before dinner.

Dinner that night, the famous Pimanti Brothers.

If you're a "Man vs. food" viewer, you may otherwise know this place as the restaurant that serves coleslaw and fries ON their sandwiches.

Jeff and Dave could have eaten this for breakfast the next day. Me, I though it was great,

but a once a life time thing.

Day Two:

The Science Center.

I was saying this place was overwhelming for an adult, let alone a child.

They had everything a curious mind would wonder about.

Here we are sitting in the earthquake simulator.

Charlie couldn't get enough of this water/river bed center.

He loved the balls and their interaction with the waters path.

Nurse Lucy trying to help our very ill patient Charlie

I see potential for his curious mind.

So COOL! Didn't you use to play "Operation" for hours when you were little?

Well, no need to be little. Its life size now!

Jeff was like a 5 year old at the Sports Center.

Here he is, shooting to the sky, after it launches you, depending on your downward pull.

Our tour of one of the Submarines.

It was amazing to see what a real submarine looked like, but my heavens,

you'd have to give me 100 times a sign on bonus to ever board one going out to sea.

Dinner that night, (of corse after our daily swim) was Pei Wei, take out style.

Joke of the night, both Andrea and Dave spilling their dinner plates all over the floor.

Day 3:

If the name Frank Lloyd Wright doesn't sound familiar to you, this next part will be a snooz.

In the sleepy town of Mill Run, Pa, you'll find the ever famous house that FLW was commissioned to build, Fallingwater.

Since no children were allowed, it worked out perfectly for Andrea and I to head off,

and take a tour of this famous home.

BUT, not before Landon had what would be the first of many blowouts.

I had some great expectations of this home, and let me tell you, they were EXCEEDED.

This home was truly amazing!

Built long before its time, in the sense of construction, style and design.

No cameras are allowed inside, with our tour, so you'll just have to take my word for it that

this place is spectacular.

On the way home, about an hour from our house,

I realized I had not yet given my kiddies a sucker.

By saying this, I am telling you they did fantastic, and did not need to be hushed with a ball of sugar in their mouth.

They all were great. Kept busy with their books, toys, coloring, stickers, and our favorite, Snacks!

All of this of corse could be considered a dry run for this upcoming weekend, when we take our 11 day road trip, up as far as Maine!! (Camping all the way)

We rushed home for a BBQ and fireworks with friends.

What would the 4th be with out watermelon, homemade ice cream and a big juicy burger?

Fortunately for us, the boys were exhausted, which helped our cause with getting them to bed with the booming sound of fireworks in the back.

Lucy, on the other hand, did stay awake, but after stepping on a sparkler, wasn't quite the same. It took us years to get her to like the fireworks, and I think we may have set our selfs back a few years.

What a whirlwind vacation and holiday weekend, but such great memories!!

Thanks Snows and Cooks!! We had a lovely time!

Laminate STILL doesn't paint

2011-06-28T11:40:00.000-07:00

This just had to be done.

No, thats not poop, its a leaf.

Look at the dimples!!!

Is this weird to anyone else?

Our crazy neighbors brought a baggie full of these beauties over (plastic doll heads),

and Lucy said "oh, I can paint them".

Funnest park EVER!

Cabin Johns park in Md. was over the top!

They had about 8 separate play areas, with varying skill levels and activities.

We went with friends on Monday, and it was my favorite day this year!

This little house was like a maze.

Check out these slides!

I even flew down them!

It was in a really dense section of Md (not like it isn't everywhere) but it was great to have shade all day!

And the best part, THE TRAIN!

This train ride was over 15 min. long, and was only 1.75!!

It went through the "deep dark woods", under bridges, past the park where he'd toot his whistle, and the kids come running to wave.

I think the kids liked it, but I had a BLAST!

Wow! Look at those faces! You'll have to take my word for it, it was a great journey.

The kids favorite part.

"Porky the littler eater", or as Andrea says, the Liberator (with his accent, that was the best we could make out!)

You put trash in his pie hole, and he gobbles it up.

We went nearly though a package of wipes filling this pig up!

This park was SO fun, and the kids and I have already decided to take dada back.

Before I begin, when we moved into our house, the landlord said

"don't paint anything. Its all original."

and

my husbands out of town.

So heres the before.

I wish you could see the size of the TV thats blocking your view on the left!

Its over 5 ft. tall!!

Anddddddd

Tada! So, I know I know.

The painted mantle. It was the same color as the walls, that oak panneling,

and I felt like if I was making an improvement on the home, it was ok.

(well see what crazy Robert thinks)

As for the TV, its history.

I found myself, nearly every night, just watching the boob tube.

I had a few things I wanted to get done, but night after night,

I'd find myself at 10 pm, having spent another evening doing NOTH-ING.

So, thank you Craigslist.

And I painted our laminate desk.

A. laminate doesn't paint

-even if you put polyurethane on it

B. Jeff said "babe, you've got to stop spending money on our house.

You're already into next months budget.

so, to explain the orange color

C. since I was not spending any money on home things, I had two choice of paint downstairs.

Pink or yellow. When you mix them, you get this.

Really, I needed a project for the afternoon, and since the desk already has a few rubs where the paint was scraped off, I'm sure the orange color won't last for long.

( I just hope it makes it in time for jeff to come home tonight. )

3's company

2011-06-17T18:16:00.001-07:00

Sit down, and make yourself comfortable! This post is a doozy.

The kiddies and I headed to Oxon Hill Farm, where we fed chickens,

cleaned out the rocks from our shoes (LUCY!!! About a BILLION TIMES), Fed the gees,

went to the bathroom (LUCY!!! About a BILLION TIMES), Fed the ducks, pigs,

combed the cows and strolled with the horses.

They were all so scared to stand on this hay.

I'm a bit afraid I've raised 3 city slickers.

I think had it been an option, my children would rather have eaten the corn, then tossed it.

Next time we'll know.

Alexandria.

The weather has just been SPLENDID, so we headed to Old Town Alexandria,

with the BG's (Baltz Girls)

This first picture begins the whirlwind romance or courtship of Henry for Brooklyn's love.

The story follows...

Trying to tempt her with forbidden foods

And end with Henry giving up. Throwing his worries at the wind.

We strolled around King street, per usual, and made our traditional stop at Candys Candies.

Delightful I tell you.

Seeing this picture makes me so sad to know time is going on,

and my babies are getting older and bigger. Oh how I'll miss these days.

Friday night, where the party began!!!

Nestled under the Key bridge, on the edge of Georgetown, resting on the Potomac,

you'll find this beauty. Jack's Boathouse.

Jeff has some people from work, the fellows,

just visiting from out of town. This weekends activity was kayaking on the Potomac. (Last week was the bike ride, see previous posts)

I could not believe this place! The location, colors, weather, decor...just perfect!

Not surprising was the fact that Henry made friends quickly.

This was helpful for the reason being that both Jeff and I went out on the water.

If you'll indulge me, one more story, as told by Hank.

It all began when the huckleberries fell from the trees, and needed some cleaning up.

Henry waisted no time, but was mindful of others, and warned them to stay back, while the cleaning got done.

While Scott made sure under the tables were spick and span, Hank valiantly scraped and scrubbed where people may step.

Being certain no spot was left un cleansed.

Not long after they began, a common consensus was reached, that they had once again made that deck shine. All in a days work my good boys! Well done!

(Let me tell you Scott was NOT pleased with his extra helping hand. Let me remind you Scott you were once a young pup yourself!)

And the credit goes to these sweeties. They are SO so so good wherever we go, and were delighted to hang around the food table, people watching and snacking!

Jeff and a few of the fellows. Since his office has maximum security (sounds like a prison, I guess for him it is) there is no chance of me squeezing in a peek of him there, so this is as close as I'll get, and its a treat!

Love love love the multi colored andorak chairs

that put a punch of color into this beautiful scene.

Such a slice of heaven!

Looks like I even made some time for some pre-kayaking stretches.

Always thinking ahead.

And I'm off.

I cannot tell you the joy that was had during my time on the water!

I'm not sure that anything else could have made me happier.

Once I got away from the dock, I made my way to an island.

While getting there, it was So peaceful, quiet, still,

almost as if I'd put the world on the slow motion.

Several times I just had to stop stroking, and ask myself if it was a dream.

It really was unreal,

and I've not experienced anything like it since having kids. (I guess its the feeling of release, or freedom, or maybe it just took me back to Australia, which is where I last Kayaked,

before I had kids)

Not sure what it was, but I only wish Jeff was there to share it with.

He did get a turn, but we weren't together.

It has been on my top 10 things to do in DC, Kayak on the Potomac,

and it did NOT disappoint!

And as if that were not enough, I got back to our table, and voila. This beauty appeared!

It was such a magical night.

Thanks Jacks. You've got a costumer for life.

7 minutes

2011-06-12T09:55:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RVxsjRRpWxg

7 min. of your life that will be so well spent!

Enjoy!

18.2 miles and record heat

2011-06-09T17:39:00.000-07:00

Well, here you have it. With record breaking heat, we've got kids dressing for snow.

I'll clap to that.

My dreams come true.

The Sanders were in town,

which allowed Jeff and I to ride from Alexandria to Mt. Vernon, 18.2 miles.

I hate to say it again, but the weather, trail and company were just perfect.

A big thank you to the Sanders. It was such a joyous break from my darling children.

Joking with Jeff I said this picture looks like a dare with some friends.

I just imagined "Jackie, I'll pay you to go sit by that guy with the helmet and glasses"

Babe, I'd sit by you any day!!

Now Charlie, I'm not entirely to blame.

Dear aunt Audrey brought dress ups, but just for girls.

I must say you make the cutest princess I've ever seen.

Charlie said the cutes thing the other day.

While driving, we had the windows down.

Charlie says, with his mouth open toward the window, "hey mama, I'm eating the wind"

Seriously cannot get enough of this squishy kid.

This is my favorite picture of the year!

I feel like it shows off each one of their personalities so well.

Lucy, her attention/obsession with detail, cleanliness and exactness.

Henry, his wild, free spirited, energetic, chaotic craziness.

And Charlie, his time consuming leisure, laziness, precision and concern.

Lucy has been taking dance from our community center.

I always said I WOULD have a soccer player, but looks like Lucy has something else in mind.

She has LOVED dance, and I can't wait to get her in more classes.

Lucys big day.

Her dance recital. She was so excited to sit up there, by her self,

and she did fantastic!

Luce in action. 5 from the left.

She did really good, and since she loves to sing, was even singing as she danced.

Way to go our darling Luce.

Some of my favorite things she's been saying

during prayers, she'll say she's grateful that we have good food not junk food,

that we're thankful we have enough money.

Words she says her own way

eachgether - each other

blooderfulys- butterflies

sunscream- sunscrean

Heres the before...

And after!

Makes me so sad to see this darling boy grow up.

We've decided he's much more of a Hank then Henry, so move over buddy,

there is a new boy in town!

Henrys been doing great with signing.

He loves to do "more", "airplane" (which he LOVES to spot), "milk" and "stinky"

Love you hunkie Hank!

The memorable Memorial Day weekend

2011-05-30T17:58:00.001-07:00

Oh gosh this kid.

He's a handful of fun, but a handful of work.

He jibber jabbers all day long, and makes a lot of messes to clean up, but we sure love him

We welcomed our Memorial Day weekend with a huge thunder/lightening/rain storm.

Out neighbors even called to see if we wanted to stow ourselves away in their basement,

as there were tornado warnings. Don't kid yourself, they do happen often. (warnings that is)

We had some of our favorite people over for dinner on Saturday night!

The Vance fam came to our casa for a bbq and swim party.

Look how darling, the girls even had matching swim suits!!

It is always so nice when kids play so well together.

We got to chat, while the kiddos kept so busy.

Sunday night our friends invited us down to the annual National Capitol Concert.

It was a blast! We ate, played cards, and let the kids run free.

Charlie showing his police badge from the officers.

Lucy had such a great time with the girls. Look at that laugh.

As we now know, summer time means humidity.

However, despite the humid/hot weather, it was really pleasant down town.

There was a slight breeze, and with the sun setting it was magnificent.

We woke up bright and early to attend the annual Falls Church fun run.

Its a CRAZY packed race, with a free T-shirt at the end, so you know who went!

The race kick starts the events at Cherry Hill park.

There are bounce houses, food, carnival rides, PONY rides, FOOD, bands, concerts, FOOD....

(let me say he did CHOOSE to ride the pony. From the looks of things, this was punishment)

and a parade!! I must be a Sloan (well, actually just a descendant of Dixie),

as I LOVE me a parade!

Luce and I left the sleeping boys and headed out to the parade.

As far as the weather, the heat index was up to 103~ so it was a scorcher,

but we had ourselves some shade.

Things I cry for.... sirens, motorcycle brigades, and parades!!

Its just crazy.

Something about all these people coming together for one common purpose.

So...yes, there were tears.

So fun to be with my Lucy girl

Jeff made our FAVORITE skewers for our BBQ that night.

Yummie food, way to hot weather, and great company.

Henry trying to seduce the ladies to sneak their chocolate cake.

(Really, he took it anyway)

This showed how we all felt at the weekends end.

Ready to just relax, and let the food, fun and energy settle.

Hope everyone had a safe and fun holiday weekend.

Our Grannie came to town!

2011-05-24T17:50:00.000-07:00

Wow. I think we've been breathing the same air for 15 days, and its been beautiful!

My mom came to visit, and thats just what she did, visited.

This was the site every morning. The kids would run into grannies bed, and snuggle.

Something very fantastic happened while my mom was here!

Jeff grew a mustache.

Well, really, that was a side note to our Anniversary.

We celebrated our 8 YEAR anniversary! Its CRAZY!

I really really REALLY love everything about Jeff more now then I did,

and am thrilled that we are the Sanders Family.

I could not be happier.

This is an introduction to a future post.

BEHOLD- the bubble drink.

Its from the Eden Center aka the china town of the east.

Were still not sure exactly what these bubbles are, but we'll be back! (Maybe thats the secret)

Happy Anniversary my love!

My mama and I went here.

The fabulous Fords Theater.

I ushered with Auds, and though this production was a must see for my mom.

Once again, it was a fabulous night, at a fabulous price!

It was a hilarious spoof on the 11th founding father. I'm hoping this world premier makes it way to your neck of the woods.

Making bird feeders with Grannie.

Hunting for worms

We took grannie to Old Town Alexandria.

Here, is for the kids, a piece of heaven.

Candies Candy shop.

Picnic at the waters front

Feeding the ducks

As if anyone needed more candy.

Grannie got us the game "Candy Land"

I'm sure this will be our new favorite thing.

Really, is this not the coolest thing!!!

After one of our dozen outdoor picnics, I had put out a candle, and from the ash got this

amazing finger print.

This is me, according to the United States.

This is Jacquelin Sloan Sanders.

All that you need to know about me is right here.

Pretty amazing!

Rockin the stash, Jeff.

At our Civil War Day and local farmers market.

Gor-GEOUS weather here! I'm tellin ya!

This picture may be a bit misleading.

Henry took some time to warm up to our grannie.

But once these two found the block puzzle game, they were BFF's

We to grannie to see the Temple, and also some friends she new

on her mission from New Zealand.

If there is one thing you need to know about me, its that I love me a picnic.

Jeff puts up with a lot of them this time of year,

but hun, if mama aint happy, no budy aint happy.

My darling darling boys after yet another picnic

And if there is one thing you need to know about my mom,

its that she loves her some clean grandbabies.

Here she is with her famous camp washes.

Its been great weather here. Not quite bug season, which we're scared for, but until then, you'll

find us out back, dipping our toes in the water.

(Ha! Chars. he was anxious for a turn down the slide)

Thanks Grannie, we had a heck of a time!

Can't wait for you to come back!!!

10 CRAZY days

2011-05-08T16:31:00.001-07:00

If there were one phrase I heard from Lucy everyday, it would be

"can I play with Hay-Hannah?" Lucy loves these girlies.

Our gorgeous back yard. They were collecting all the different flowers.

I think they ended up with about 12 each! 12 different flowers in just our back yard .

This is the result of Luce not taking a nap. It was about 4:30, and she was in the process of taking off her swim suit. So much for that.

And look who came to town!!

My sister Audrey and her hubs Cam came to our casa for 10 DAYS!!!

The second night they were here, it was 31 cent scoops at Baskin Robins.

We all snuck out of the house, and grabbed ourselfs a few scoops.

Notice the broken plate.

Guilty as charged.

Cam and I were just in the kitchen talking, Chars on the counter,

and CRASH! Charlie fell in the sink. And with his hard as a rock skull, cracked the plate.

Cam and I had such a laugh, but managed to get it wrapped up and bandaged nicely.

A boys night out to Bens Chilly Bowl.

Cam, Jeff and Chars hit the streets for a cardiac attack.

Auds and I were not short on fun.

Oh my gosh, I love my sister!

She is teary eyed from laughing so hard, just as we got off the metro.

We had been down to Fords Theater, ushering for a play!

BEST NIGHT EVER.

Thanks Auds!!!!

While here, we headed down to Appamattox.

Don't fret if you've never heard of this place.

Its where the Civil War officially ended.

Jeff INSISTED we stop, and I'm thrilled he was able to tour by himself,

while the kids and I mowed the grass.

The Maiden Voyage.

We took big Bess, the tent, on her first trip of the year.

Kids all did great, and we're taking notes in preparation for our 10 day camp trip,

coming up in July.

Henrys GQ face

Abe also made a brief appearance for 4 days.

If you look at Luce, she is just beaming with joy.

This was one of many birthday celebration meals.

Both Cam and Abe had birthdays while here.

Oh how we love these peeps.

A picnic dinner catered by Rocklands BBQ, historic scenery and dreamy weather.

Ahhhh

Henrys found a new love `

Great place to spot planes, Iwo Jima

The men, strolling along the path once taken by Thomas Jefferson, at Monticello.

Our day trip on Saturday

The girlies

These kids were so good.

All nap less, hungry, and tired from the 3+ hour car ride, but really,

I'm constantly amazed at how well they are.

Just bidding a farewell to a founding father

We got out our pool, picnic gear and party plates to welcome

the gorgeous weather we've been having.

The day at the zoo.

And what would a trip be to DC with out a stop in Georgetown, to DC cupcakes?

It was well worth the wait, and we're looking into getting Cam sent a PB & Chocolate cupcake.

The men quietly enjoying their cupcakes.

We cut and colored Audreys hair.

And last but NOT least, celebrated mothers day!

I am a happy mother of 3 healthy children.

What more can I say.

I am so fortunate.

Gone Fishin!

2011-04-26T12:00:00.000-07:00

I feel like this adventure was classic east coast.

Ruston Va. stocked a stream with over 400 fish, and opened it to kids 12 and under

for a free fish day.

Creating an outdoor experience for the wanna be but not outdoorsie type.

We went. Much to Jeffs shagrin!

The mountain lover in me wanted my kids to have a rustic experience,

and hopefully catch a fish or two.

That was not the case.

The stream was about 6 ft. across, shrubs and branches galore, not to mention the hords of people that showed up for such an event.

What can I say. I succored for the "outdoor" experience.

Everyone had a role.

Jeffs: to look rustic, dashing and capable of catching up to 4 fish.

Charlie: Stunt man.

Henry: Bobbin cleaner.

There was no bobbin un-touched by his mouth.

(I can assure you we were the only ones there letting our baby suck on bobbins....all the more for him to clean!)

Luce: making sure all the food we brought was eaten.

Oh, and she did a great job of this.

Jax: Keeping well hidden in the bush, with my bright orange camo on.

I chuckled when I tried to duck behind the bushes to take Charlie to the bathroom.

Even if I really was hidden, my camo would have given us away.

Really, I had a great time. Really.

It was nothing like fishing in the Uinta's, but nothing is, and they'd never know.

They had a great time!

We scurried off after fishing to our neighborhood easter egg hunt.

This picture is so funny.

If you look close, there is a rope that was tied to keep the yungins back,

until the count of three.

Charlie didn't cross the rope, rather bent it till it would allow him to reach over,

and snag an egg. Clever boy I tell ya.

There, Henry found true love.

He has been so fond of animals, and this little pup zippy, was the perfect Easter treat for him.

Lucy listening to the instructions.

She's always so worried and cautious, thus the plugged ears.

Why on earth was I pointing eggs out to my child?

Really? I have associated plenty of eggs with a memorable experience, but after this year,

I will no longer encourage more eggs.

They would have been happy with 2, and I'll know better next time.

Henry could have cared less about the candy, rather, loves spotting air planes.

The loot.

Easter morning.

It was GLORIOUS weather here.

In fact, a bit to hot.

It made for beautiful pictures before church.

This is part of our back yard. it is so beautiful back here this time of year.

Lucy sporting the sunglasses the Easter Bunny brought her.

Cannot believe she is my daughter!

Her favorite colors are pink and purple, and I could not be happier!! :)

We had an easter party in our back yard Sunday night.

Another Easter egg hunt for the kiddies, food, games, food, candy, and it honestly was so fun.

A few families /friends and neighbors came over for the festivities.

We've been so fortunate to find such fantastic people back here,

who've become our closest friends.

The cupcakes (among other things) that I brought.

Just tryin to look good for the ladies.

Bocha ball.

Team Sanders did win, although it was close.

It was such a fun weekend, and we're looking forward to many more outdoor parties before the nasty humidity sets in!

Hope ya'll enjoyed your Easter festivities.

From 50 to 80

2011-04-17T18:47:00.000-07:00

True story.

Monday, 50 degrees.

Inside our house, jackets on, sipping down some hot chocolate.

The bed time routine, bath, bottle(for big H), story, teeth, prayer, potty and Bed.

Oh, all after snuggling with the mama on the couch.

And after dada gets his thigh master work out.

Back to the story. Monday, 50 degrees.

Tuesday, 80!

we did everything possible outside.

I was painting a few things, so the kids insisted on painting as well.

They were armed with water and paint brushes, and went to work.

Goofy picture, but I love these overalls.

A view from my front yard.

By the looks of thins, we

A. Run a day care

B. live in a neighborhood with TONS of kids

C. are too poor to afford swimsuits

D. just LOVE having a dang good time!!!!

If I haven't said it enough, we love love LOVE our neighbors the Ellis's

They have 5 fantastic kids, 2 of which are close to 2 of my kids ages.

They are ALWAYS doing something crazy,

and it doesn't take much for us to jump on the band wagon.

(Don't fret. Charlie is doing who knows what, but NOT what you think he's doing)

We have these huge construction cones we throw in the street when the kids are out,

and they work wonders!

I think we even have less cars now then we did a year ago, because they all hate navigating the cones.

Life is so good.

It must be April

2011-04-05T10:04:00.001-07:00

It must be April, and I'm in love!

I can hardly remember what its like to live away from these cherry blossoms!!

Even in our neighborhood, it is transformed with these practically edible blossoms.

Its just beautiful in the spring.

We ventured to the Cherry Blossom festival (much of which was canceled due to the unseasonable cold) to see the beauty.

Parts of the Potomac are in just a canopy of these blossoms.

Its spectacular, and we hit them right at the peak.

On the way back to the car I insisted we feast our eyes on the creatures from the underworld!

I love seafood, and certainly saw one of everything on this excursion!

Just a day in the life.

What to do when the weather is just not picnic appropriate?

Bring the picnic to you!

Lets go fly a kite.....or maybe not.

We headed off to get our new shark kite on its maiden voyage, but were a bit unsuccessful.

We were not totally discouraged, as there was a playground near by....

Henrys been training for his up coming Iron Man.

Working on his pull ups

Fast forward 12 years.

Lucy, driving a real car.

Charlie, wanting to be taken somewhere, on Lucys "lame" list.

Lucy, rolling her eyes, embarrassed as she comes to a stop light, and sees her BFFS.

Oh Lucy, only time will tell!!

What DO you do all day?

2011-03-26T12:45:00.000-07:00

People keep asking me, what do you do all day?

And really, I have no answer. I have no idea what I do all day.

Maybe the pictures can address that question.

We're back to teaching Henry some dance moves.

Luce during quiet time threading some beads.

She's suddenly become quite the crafter, and can now draw people! SO CUTE!

This melted my heart!!!

Since when could she draw a circle, and put 4 appendages out of it, and call it a person?

I LOVE these treasures!!!

Audrey, she said one was you. Apparently she remembers you better then I thought!

I looked out the window and what did I see...

Charlie got really REALLY sick, for about 24hrs.

He woke up at 7am, drank about 1/2 gallon of water, slept till 12:30, drank more water,

went to bed at 1:30pm. and slept till after 4pm.

He then went to bed at 8pm, and that was that.

I was REALLY worried for him, but turns out all for nothing.

This was during one of his naps, I let him nap on my bed.

He was sacked out like this!

Poor little cutie.

Yeah Henry. Like the flour on your face doesn't give your secret away.

This little tricker loves to sneak into the flour and sugar bins, but always gives me fair warning before hand by saying "uh-uh" (how i sound when telling him no)

HA! This makes his huge heed look even bigger.

Oh gosh, we eat him up!!!

We still call him "chi-chi" and on random occasion, luce will say

"Hey mama, we have a little chi- chi in our house!"

My sweet baby boy charlie, just a routine hair cut.

I don't know how you other mothers can stand having someone else cut their hair.

3 reasons why I don't drink coffee-

Everyone fights to open Henrys door in the morning, and now we all fight to get in his bed!

Really, all I do all day, is think "How did I become so blessed !"

Hunker down, its a doosie.

2011-03-16T17:58:00.000-07:00

Making chocolate chip cookies for dada.

The first night with rollers. SO cute!

It turned out darling, and most stayed in quite well.

LET'S GO CA-APS!!!!!

Jeff and I ventured to the Verizon Center for a Caps game.

The Capitols are DC's National Hockey team!!

An NHL game? SUPER cool.

Super fans. Super fun. Super company. Super night!

How cute is this?

My hubs is just a doll.

This is where he works.

Concrete warehouse.

Sounds like we'll never be visiting him for a surprise lunch visit, as security is so tight.

In fact, just to park there, I had to go through security, show ID, pass through an

xray machine, was patted down. And this was just to PARK.

Lucy takes dance on Wednesdays.

She loves it, and is so stinkin cute in her costume.

Henry, oh gosh sweet boy.

Happy Birthday.

For your birthday, we had lunch with dada, at the National Art Museum.

We got McDonalds fries for you.

You mostly just wanted to walk around, which kept you quite busy.

The birthday donut.

You sucked off the frosting, and left the dough.

Henry, you've been a joy.

You've for so long been called Happy Hank.

The kids and I fight who gets to open your door after naps,

because you're so happy.

You walk everywhere, and usually refuse a hand for help.

You eat most things, but love mini marshmallows.

You are loved, a lot of times to much, by us all!!

Happy happy birthday sweet sweet boy.

We really didn't celebrate much, as your birthday is so much more then your arrival

onto this earth.

Your birthday marks now a year. A year of your life, but a year of my life, our families life

that we've been in Virginia for a year.

Its been a fast year. A fun year, but certainly a year of missing family.

You've met each of your grandparents, a few times, but know none of your 14 cousins.

Not a single one.

You know none of your 5 great grandparents, and have only met 2 of your uncles, and one aunt.

I feel great guilt for all of this, and know that my love could never make up for all

those who love you, sight un-seen.

This year, such a quick one.

Marking it by your birth makes it go by even quicker.

Time has gone. Am I better? Am I a better mother? Am I a better wife?

I'm not sure.

What am I saying?

I'm not sure!!!!

A year. A year of life.

Henry, we're so happy to have celebrated that year of life with you,

here in beautiful Va.

I just had to get a picture of this.

No matter what I'm doing, in this case flossing my teeth,

my children are never to far.

We joke their umbilical cords have not been cut.

Oh, I should be so lucky!!!!

The vacuum in our house for so long has been the big bad wolf,

but we've reached another chapter.

The vacuum has now become a friend.

Look at this angel.

The Sanders fam hit Fords Theater this weekend.

The kids did so so good, and I think both Jeff and I learned

something we hadn't known before.

Does it always feel like you're on the outside looking in?

Cutest thing ever. Charlie was CHARMING these girls out the window.

He is such a doll baby, and I guess he's figured that out as well.

My Boys

2011-03-06T11:26:00.000-08:00

There is nothing better then having a little girl, to dress up, to sing with,

to dance with, to giggle with....

but there is NOTHING better then having boys!

Charlie lately has loved to draw. We have in our den a very large picture window,

with a shelf just big enough to put a piece of paper, and create masterpieces.

Beginning of this week, they got into the halloween costumes,

and Charlie managed to squeeze into Lucys old duck.

Charlie can be as tender as a duck, and as crazy as a monster!

He is by far the most emotional of all our children, with lots of ups and downs,

and I can't picture him any other way!

After breakfast, the kids usually munch on bananas and cereal (then what is breakfast you ask? Its 99% of the time mush, but occasionally pancakes, waffles or french toast)

I had to take the camera out, after realizing Charlie eats his cheerios by sticking them to his fingers.

No wonder he's still there by the time the kitchens cleaned,

laundries begun, and dinners nearly done.

Henry. Oh Henry.

Who would not want to tackle this stinker!

He is a lark when he wakes up from the night and naps!

In fact, I only remember him crying when he's been sick (and that was as of late).

He chirps away for a good 20 min. in the morning.

This is waking from a nap.

Jeff plays tickle monster with the kids, and Henrys contribution is to mimic Jeff as he growls.

This is his face, as he tries to say "OoooHhhhoooo"

I'm trying to teach my kids time management,

so this is Henry making the most of his time waiting.

Making sure every inch of the crib is cleaned.

He's all but perfected "The Running Man" dance.

Just a few more tweaks and he'll have it down.

My baby will soon (Tuesday) be celebrating his 1st birthday!!!

Can't believe its been a year!