Thanks Grandma Jan

I love it when moms and mother-in-laws come into town. The laundry gets done, the diapers get changed, the dishes are cleaned, countless books are read (to Ryder), stories are told, wine is drank ... I could go on and on.

I'm so thankful that my mom came into town this weekend while Jeremy was enjoying some 'family-free' time in Texas. We had a great time and are excited to see you again at Christmas!

Way to Go Cougs

The Cougs and the Huskies battled it out this weekend during the annual Apple Cup. No matter how bad or good the teams are, it's always a close game. This year they were giving it their all for 9th & 10th place. The Cougs took the game in double overtime! Go Cougs.

To watch the game - well, I actually didn't start watching until overtime (it's a little hard with two kids) - the kids, my mom and I went to our friends Jesse & Molly's new house (gorgeous!) to watch the game. Jeremy was in Texas visiting some friends from high school & college.

Ryder and Payton showing their Cougar pride!

This picture was just too funny not share.

After numerous attempts, we decided that it's impossible to get these three kiddos to sit still and smile for a picture.

Four-wheeling

So, after I take Ryder to see Mickey (see previous post), Jeremy takes him four-wheeling. One step forward, two steps back.

The boys had a great time. Here are some pics and video clips from their ride.

Mommy & Ryder Date Night

We all know how much dogs, kids and just about everyone loves Jeremy. He's irresistible. I get it, I married him. But the thing is even our own kids are catching on to just how cool he is and prefering him over me. Ok, so it's just Ryder, but I know he will unintentionally woo Payton his way once she gets a bit older.

Ryder now wants Daddy to do the stuff I always used to do ... read him books, snuggle with him in bed, take him to school (an hour before I am leaving for work and I still have to go and drop off Payton -- at the same place) and even wipe his bottom! There have been some instances that are just too heartbreaking that I can't bear to type them out for you. If you want to know, call me and I'll tell you. Seeing it written out is just too much for me.

Yes, I'm feeling sorry for myself.

So what do I do? I take Ryder on a date to spend a little one-on-one time together and show him that I'm just as hip and cool as Daddy is. We went to Disney on Ice. He loved it. He is saving his money to go to Mickey Mouse's house (AKA Disneyland) so seeing Mickey (and all the Disney characters) was perfect for him. In fact, he actually thought the arena was Mickey's house.

So you may ask, how is our relationship now? Well, seeing Mickey didn't mend it, but we're making progress. If he knows how to break my heart now, what's it going to be like when he's a teenager?

Fall Bike Ride

The weather has been beautiful this fall. Last weekend we packed up the bikes and went for a ride along the greenbelt. Payton even got to join us for her first bike ride. It lulled her right to sleep.

I love my bike. Paris Hilton and I have the same one. I had mine first.

Ryder and Mommy taking a break.

Payton in the trailer ...

... and fast asleep.

Payton & Delaney

I wonder how many pictures we are going to get of the girls (Payton & Delaney) growing up together? It's going to be so much fun ... It already is.

Back to Work

My maternity leave came to an end this week, with me returning to work on Tuesday. It's nice to be back among adults, but I sure do miss my days with Payton.