The Kaiser Family

Merry Christmas to all...

2010-12-24T14:22:00.001-08:00

May your Christmas be blessed! Love, The Kaisers

The Pumpkin Patch

2010-10-09T18:45:00.000-07:00

We went out to Murray Family Farms again this year! Fun time picking pumpkins, getting our faces painted, and watching the pig races!

Summer 2010 Snip-Its

2010-08-15T16:38:00.000-07:00

Just a few pics from little side trips we took after Florida and fun around the house this summer...

Backyard Buzz Lightyear rocket...

The Fresno Zoo...

The beach...

Our Trip to FL

2010-06-27T07:25:00.000-07:00

Before surgery, while Colton was being prepped, the nurses gave him two gas masks (one for him and one for Buzz) to play with. Colton still has the one for Buzz in his bed today.

After surgery, Colton was pretty good! Just hungry and very pumped up with pain meds.

My sleeping arrangements in the background!

Colton was NOT happy about getting out of bed for the first time...even if it was to take a trip to the toy room.

Once he started to play with the Wii...his outlook on the stroll changed a little.

The big teddy bear outside the hospital. It was one of the ways I could get him to get out of the bed and outside. By this time he was having a bad reaction to the meds...so his poor little eyes were so red!

This was the day we went back for the hard cast... not fun at all. :( I do have to add, however, that Colton is doing so much better now! Each day seems like such big improvements. He is one resilient little kid!

Max's Birthday Part 2

2010-05-15T13:38:00.000-07:00

Here are a few more pictures from Max's birthday!

Max's Birthday (Part 1)

2010-05-05T19:42:00.000-07:00

I feel like the world's worst mom for not posting about my little Max. Yes we had a party for the little guy... he dove into the cake like no other... and I promise to post more pics of the party soon! (That is why I titled it Part 1). It's a busy time of the year!!! Not to mention the 1 and 3 year olds that keep me on my toes! More to come...

Happy Birthday, Colton!

2010-03-30T14:05:00.000-07:00

There is just no way that my Colton can be 3! He is so grown up these days. At Colton's request, we had another "Cars" themed party this year. Friends came over to help celebrate. A lot of fun for Colton, as he was showered that day with love, cake, and presents!

Colton and his best friend, Luke.

Strangely similar to last year's cake!

After we finished opening presents, Grandpa Braziel and Grandma said there was one more in the garage. Colton darted out the door to find the HUGE box!

His first car...Colton was in heaven!

It's pretty cool! Colton can drive, but we have a remote control that can override his driving. It plays music and flashes lights. I'm sure the neighbors have loved their 7 a.m. wake-up call these days as Colton & Nick take it up and down the street!

Toward the end of the party, Colton got his Mr. Incredible costume on and pretended to be on a mission to save the world!

Thanks for the car Grandma & Grandpa!

Not to be forgotten! My little Max had a fun time at the party too! Just a few more weeks until his own!

Here are some of Colton's favorites at Age 3...

Color: Yellow

Toy: Daddy (still)

Superhero: Mr. Incredible

Food: Waffles & Popcorn

Movie: The Incredibles, Toy Story, Monsters Inc., Cars

Outfit: Pajamas

Dessert: Strawberry Ice Cream

Toys: Lightening McQueen Car, Balloons, Playdough, Mickey Mouse Basketball

Past-Time: Exploring the Great Outdoors

Book: The Very Hungry Caterpillar

Activity: Anything Outside

Song: The Happy Birthday Song, Life is a Highway (from Cars)

Why is it that we can't slow down time and keep our children small? I have loved every moment of this little 3 year old, but panic that he is growing up way too fast!

Happy Birthday, Colton! I love you!

The Sunshine!

2010-03-14T13:06:00.000-07:00

We are loving the sunshine lately, and today marks the first day of the time change. Both Max & Colton love being outside. Spring came so quick, that we haven't even had time to get new sand for the sandbox. Nevertheless, it is still being enjoyed. Colton turns 3 on Sunday (sniff, sniff) and Max turns 1 a few weeks after that (sniff, sniff, sniff).

Super Bowl Sunday

2010-02-07T12:15:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day and Super Bowl Sunday!!

You GO, Saints!!! What a game!

Our Trip to Florida

2010-01-01T10:05:00.000-08:00

We had a great trip to Florida... aside from the 24 hour flu that hit Nick & I pretty hard our first day there...and some news from Colton's doctor that wasn't the best... we had A TON of fun in Disneyworld! Here are some pictures from the trip as well as an update on Colton's leg & surgery...
Mickey Mouse was sooo fun. Colton loved giving him hugs.

If you were to ask Colton about his favorite part of the trip...it would be this. Meeting Lightening McQueen. He has this picture sitting in his room now and stares at it daily. He LOVED meeting him and talks about it non-stop!

Who would have thought they would have Lightening McQueen mouse ears?!

This was the giant tree in front of Disney Hollywood Studios.

The Little Einsteins

Woody from Toy Story was another instant best friend.

Max was such a trooper!!! He slept and then would wake to people watch...never once did he throw a fit. He was content to just go along for the ride! He loved his baby mouse ears too!

I had over 150 pictures by the end of the trip... these were just a few that stuck out. I will probably post more at a later date.

Colton's prognosis...

We will be returning to Florida this June for his first of 2 or 3 surgeries. This June Dr. Paley will be removing some muscle that surrounds his femur and creating an ACL and PCL in his knee (as his is so under-developed). This will help to strengthen his knee before the next June when he has a leg lengthening surgery. There is also a possibility that he will need some reinforcement to his hip and that will be determined this summer before he has his knee done (they will be a conjoined surgery if he needs the hip surgery as well). He will be in Florida for 2-3 weeks this summer and then around 3 months the following summer. None of this is news we wanted to hear obviously. It's hard to think of your baby going through surgery and recovery. We know that God is before us each step (And there are SO many to think about!!). The surgery, recovery, outcome, mental toll, emotional toll, financial logistics, insurance, etc. It's a lot to think about. So we pray. That's what it comes down to. No sense worrying day in and day out. Concern, of course... but worry is not something that Nick and I are going to let ourselves succumb to. You can pray for us that we stay true to this mantra!!

Meanwhile... We are SO enjoying the break! I love the option of staying in pajamas all day!!!

Santa

2009-12-13T13:12:00.000-08:00

It's so hard to get anything posted these days!!! I think I beat my record of most days without a new post. Anyhow, here's a new one...

We got to see Santa last night at CALM's Christmas lights display. Max loved him and really checked out his beard to see if it was real or not.

Santa asked Colton what he wanted... his only response, "the Monsters DVD." Santa asked if that was it and Colton said yes, then waited for Santa to get it. It took a long conversation to make him understand that Santa wouldn't be to our house until Christmas. That's when he would bring the DVD.

We rode the carousel.

Halloween 2009 Part 2

2009-11-01T16:22:00.000-08:00

I couldn't help but make the comparison...
Max Halloween 2009

Colton Halloween 2007

Halloween 2009

2009-11-01T16:11:00.000-08:00

Halloween 2009 was a lot of fun for my little puppy and pumpkin. We headed to a church down the road for a big harvest party. Colton played games, trick-or-treated, and rode a choo choo train. Max watched and fell asleep about half-way through.

Look What I Can DO!!

2009-10-25T09:11:00.000-07:00

I have mastered the art of sitting up on my own!
My brother, Colton, thinks this is great.

I am also eating lots of baby food, drooling non-stop, rolling around on the floor to get to where I want, giggling at my brother all the time, and constantly smiling. I'm known as the easiest-going baby by all those who know me!

The Pumpkin Patch

2009-10-04T19:49:00.000-07:00

We were off to the pumpkin patch this past Saturday! It was a fun time for all. Our friends, the Manns, joined us, and Luke & Colton ran around with their dads like crazy. Max had a fun time too...he got right down into the dirt with the rest of the boys!

Over 3 feet tall now!

We took a hayride on a tractor.

Trying to find the right pumpkin. Colton loved the dirt.

Max found the one he wanted.

This horse went over way better than the actual live one at the Paso Fair this summer!

Showing off his teeth.

My Favorite Time

2009-09-27T09:16:00.000-07:00

My favorite time is just before bed... when all is calm (pretty much) and we have story time. Colton hosts this time in his room. He chooses the books, Mommy is the narrator...sometimes it's Daddy. And the two boys happily listen along. These are the moments that I hope I never-ever forget. And that is why I had to capture it.

It's Just Been...

2009-08-28T20:33:00.000-07:00

One of THOSE kind of weeks (for the past MONTH!) Getting back into the swing of school has been nuts! I already have a load of quotable sayings out of the mouths of my sweet first graders. More to come on them soon...

Here are my precious boys. I love how they love eachother!

Why Can't Time...?

2009-08-06T18:45:00.001-07:00

Just slow down?? I have been working diligently this summer on getting baby books and photo albums updated. It was shocking (and yes, tear-worthy) at just how much Colton has grown up. My little boy keeps getting older and older and more independent in just a blink of an eye. (sniff)

And my baby...well he is growing at this awfully fast pace too. Max is almost 4 months now. Here are some recent pictures. His newest feats are eating some cereal, rolling over, and sleeping through the night (praise God!!!). He is also quite the talker and has the same happy-go-lucky disposition of his brother. They are like two peas in a pod. I just wish it would slow down too!!! (sniff, sniff)

The Fair

2009-07-29T12:13:00.000-07:00

We recently returned from spending some time on the Central Coast. We visited family, played at the beach, relaxed, and headed to the Mid-State Fair in Paso Robles. The weather was amazing...we didn't want to come home! Here are some pictures from the fair...

Colton started our afternoon at the Fair with a huge lollipop. And yes, I let him eat the entire thing! Max did so well the whole day hanging out by his big brother.

Up close to a fire truck...a new favorite of Colton's. The firemen were so nice and gave him a hat and sticker.

The pony ride did NOT go over well. He SCREAMED. This was my only picture of him on the pony and he is not smiling at all.

However, he LOVED the rides. Go figure. To me they seem more scary than a pony.

We also go to visit the CHP. They gave Colton a sticker and he got to sit inside the patrol car.

Showing off his new hat.

Since we have been home, Max has enjoyed some "big boy" toys. His cheeks are starting to fill in which makes him look a lot more like his brother!

Max has also enjoyed his first dips in the pool since we've been home. He loves the giant swimming pool!

The 4th of July

2009-07-06T11:23:00.000-07:00

We had a great 4th celebrating with family! Since Colton has started his swim lessons, he has turned into a fish and has absolutely no fear of the pool and he made sure to show that off this weekend to his grandmas and grandpas!We cooked S'mores that night! Colton loved them. So did Mommy!

Max was so busy being passed around the grandparents that I didn't realize I had no patriotic pictures of him until the next day....so he was happy to dress up for me and take a picture a day late!

Happy Father's Day

2009-06-20T15:51:00.001-07:00

I wanted to say a special "Happy Father's Day" to some very important men in my life!

To my dad, Larry, & my husband... I love you all very much.

Dad & Larry, you have taught me so much through the years and have always been there for me. Thank you for all your support. And thank you for the friendship that the two of you have with eachother and sharing me!
I am one lucky girl to have two men like you as dads!

Nick, you are a wonderful husband and an incredible dad. Colton & Max would agree that you are second to none! I love you very much!!!

2 Months & The Binki

2009-06-12T17:27:00.000-07:00

We are approaching Max's 2-Month birthday. Time seems to be flying...as usual. (sigh) Here are some recent pictures of him. He's definately his own person, but very similar to his brother. He is such an easy going baby. Just happy to be a part of all the action in the house!And Colton turned a BIG corner at the beginning of this week. I prepped him over and over about how he is a big boy now and only babies need binkis. We talked about getting rid of his binki and since he's so infatuated with flushing the toilet these days, I told him he could throw it in the potty and flush it bye-bye. So, he was happy to comply...we told it bye-bye and...woosh...there it went. Happy to report that the nights have been great. He's slept great without it. Ahh... I know the dentist will be happy to hear it! So glad it went smoothly!

First Smile

2009-06-02T18:25:00.000-07:00

I was finally able to capture Max's first smile...

Meanwhile, Colton has been preparing for our FAVORITE holiday!!!

Brothers

2009-05-21T12:12:00.000-07:00

Colton has not lost any interest in Max. In fact, every chance he gets, he wants to be playing with the baby. He will put a binki in Max's mouth if he's crying, and will sit and stare if Max is swinging in the chair. These are from yesterday when Max was in his play gym. Colton got right down and joined him. Surprisingly, he understands how to be "gentle" around Max (especially for the bull dozer that he is!)

Not For The Squeamish

2009-05-19T08:41:00.000-07:00

Guess What?

"I went poo-poo on the potty!"

Mommy said she had to take a picture of my very first poo-poo on the potty. She's crazy! Mommy started clapping and jumping up and down when I went poo-poo. She's funny! Daddy gave me high-fives. I think this means that I am getting ready to start potty training. That's what Mommy and Daddy keep saying.

Happy Mother's Day!!!

2009-05-10T11:23:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day!

I am truely blessed with my two sweet boys!

And Happy Mother's Day to my mom who continues to teach me day after day! I love you!

Snails

2009-05-06T12:53:00.000-07:00

How does that nursery rhyme go about little boys loving snails and icky things? I can't remember it off the top of my head, but I was sure reminded of it yesterday. Busy getting a baby fed and dinner together, Colton was unleashed to the back yard (his most favorite place in the world). After about 10 minutes...I didn't see his little head bobbing back and forth in front of the window, so I decide to check. Here is what I found... He had made a new friend. A snail. Colton played for over an hour with the snail...picking it up, putting it back on the grass to watch it crawl. Yuck! Sometimes I think I'm way to much of a girl to handle two little boys! :-)

"Look, Mama!"

Three Weeks

2009-05-05T15:10:00.000-07:00

We are nearing 3 weeks since Max joined the family! Everyone has started to adjust, and we've gotten into somewhat of a routine (although I know it changes from week to week!). I have learned a few things so far since bringing baby #2 home...

Naps are a privilege...not a right!

Same goes for showers. :-)

A two-year-old understands a lot of what you tell him and loves to lend a helping hand.

You can love your second baby as much as you love the first (I was so worried about this!!)

Roll with the flow! When everyone is upset and crying...no need to join in! BREATH DEEP!

Secretly, late-night feedings don't really bother me!...They are a peaceful time between Max and I.

You can work on little to no sleep!

It helps to start dinner around 3:30...that way it might actually get done with all the distractions by 6:00!

Colton is so proud of his little brother!

Max Pictures

2009-04-25T07:14:00.000-07:00

When I said that I would post pictures soon...I must have forgot just how busy a newborn can be! And couple that with a 2 year old...HA! Here are some pictures...finally.

As you might be able to tell from the pictures...Max is much smaller and skinnier than Colton was. He's also more olive toned. Colton has been such a good big brother. He's so excited to be around the baby and says, "Love baby MA" (He hasn't quite gotten the "x" part of Max's name). We are still doing well. Just tired, tired, tired. You forget that delirious part of newborns! But we're enjoying it all.

Max

2009-04-18T10:44:00.000-07:00

We're home!

Max Robert Kaiser

April 15, 2009

8:12 a.m.

8 lbs 12 oz

19 1/4 inches

Pictures to follow.

It was a relatively easy birth (if c-sections can be called "easy")

I'm really sore and tired, but it's good to be home finally. Colton is in awe of the "Baby Max". He can't stop saying it and he constantly wants to look at the baby. He has his own baby doll that he is now using a wipe and diaper for when he sees Mommy cleaning Max. Nick and I are both sleep deprived but so thankful for our second little blessing. He is healthy and beautiful. I will post pictures soon.

Thank you for all your prayers and well wishes!

Easter Fun

2009-04-13T17:24:00.001-07:00

We had a really fun Easter! Colton woke at the crack of dawn and headed straight for his Easter basket. He was excited from that point on. His bedhead (see below) is almost as bad as mine!

After church and a nap that day, he hunted for eggs with his Papa and Dad. It took him a little while to get the swing of it.

But soon he was running from egg to egg, trying to get them as fast as he could.

Probably his most favorite part was discovering the candy (especially the M&Ms and jelly beans) inside the eggs.

This was Colton at the end of an eventful Easter day. He was sooo tired and just wanted to lay on the couch. We had a great dinner (that only happened because of my mom) and our friends the Landerdahls came to celebrate with us.

This will probably be my last blog until the big day, Wednesday! No signs that Max is coming sooner, as of my doctor's appointment today. Our c-section is scheduled for 7:30 a.m. on Wednesday. Please pray for a safe surgery and a healthy baby. I will try to post pictures of the new little guy as soon as I can.

Dying Easter Eggs

2009-04-11T16:31:00.000-07:00

Colton had his first experience in dying eggs. The box said for 5 and older, but we had fun at age 2! Mommy said forget it with the little metal thing that is supposed to be used to lower the eggs into the dye and he used his hands instead. They will probably be stained for the next week, but it was worth it for the memory!

Colton's Party

2009-04-05T11:46:00.000-07:00

Sorry these are getting posted so late! Colton had a great birthday party. Thank you to everyone who came! Here are some pictures of his day...

"Cars" was the theme of the day!

He opened gifts.

At first he was very shy when everyone sang.
Then he started to get the hang of it!

He even got a new set of wheels...which we cannot keep him out of now!

My Mommy

2009-03-26T15:07:00.000-07:00

My mommy is the worst blogger ever known. She is just lazy, lazy, lazy when it comes to keeping everyone updated on our family. So, I'm taking it upon myself to update you all...

I turned 2 last Saturday. My party is this Saturday and all my grandmas & grandpas are coming to sing to me and play.
Mommy is off work now. Her belly is too big to go to work.
My brother Max is coming soon. Everyone still says his birthday will be April15th.
If you ask me where Max is...I will proudly lift up my shirt and show you that he's in my belly.
I went to the doctor last Monday and I weigh 32 pounds and I'm almost 35 inches tall.
Outside is still the best place to be. Daddy is still the best toy ever.
My favorite word right now is "NO". I say it with a lot of attitude when I feel like it.
If I say "no" too sassy, I get put in a time-out.
I hate time-outs.
My binki stays only in my bed, but I know how to sneak it if I need it for a little while.
The room next door is all finished. It's for Max.
My room has cars.
Daddy is coaching golf right now.

That's about it. I will stay on top of my mom to make sure she posts some pictures of my birthday party. Hope I get cake and balloons! --Colton

Updates, Updates

2009-02-21T14:23:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I don't think I've posted anything new since I had been to Fresno & back with my dad's surgery and then Colton getting so sick.

It's definately not because there's been no news.

I've just been overwhelmed at how busy things have been.

So here's the snapshot of it all.

My dad is doing great. He's been back to work and is recovering nicely. Thanks for all your prayers!!!

Colton is finally well again. As mentioned, he did have RSV. That virus hung around for 2 weeks straight! I've never seen him so sick! Nick and I juggled the first week staying home with him and then my mom ended up coming over and staying the next week. Colton loved having his nana here and his beck and call. He loves Nana!

The state of California...ahh. The budget turmoil of not being signed affected Nick and I in every way with anxiety about the future of both our jobs. Now that it has finally been signed, we should have some clarity about what's to come. But, here is what we know for now...

As of now I will still be teaching 1st grade at the same school. Should my district decide to cut class size reduction and go to a 25 or 30 to 1 ratio, then I will most likely be able to stay at my same school but be bumped up to 5th grade. Not the best case scenario since I have fallen in love with 1st grade, but good in the fact that I'm not feeling the stress of a looming lay-off.

Nick, on the other hand, is a different story. His district is considering 2 possibilities in order to pull themselves out of their 40 million deficit. One includes firing 500+ teachers. Another includes taking the Health curriculum (Nick's position) and giving it to the P.E. teachers to incorporate into their day. Neither have any safe-gaurds for his job. Our hope is that his district uses their flexibility that was given from this new budget to shuffle funds around and address their deficit in a different way.

At this point, we are just waiting and doing a lot of praying!

The baby on the way... Max is doing great. He is measuring a couple weeks ahead of schedule (no shocker since his brother clocked in at 10.10). He is a super active baby and has been relatively kind to his mom with the prego symptoms. I'm just very tired at the end of the day.

Colton has successfully transitioned to his BIG BOY room! It turned out really cute and I will post pictures soon. He loves his new bed and sleeps sound through the night and naps on the weekends. Night one was a little grueling, as he didn't go to sleep until 9:30 or 10. (We had to keep putting him back in bed) but all is well now. He's very proud of his new room!

And that's about it! Hope all is well with everyone else and I will be checking your blogs to catch up with your lives!

Will You...

2009-02-13T18:32:00.000-08:00

Be My Valentine?

An update of all our family happenings to follow....

Update

2009-01-28T13:03:00.000-08:00

Ahh... What a week.

My dad's surgery went very well. The doctor was able to remove the kidney and tumor completely from the front side (there was worry he might have to go through the back). It was a clean sweep as well, meaning that the entire tumor was encapusulated and removed with nothing left behind.

Recovery has not been as easy. My dad is in A LOT of pain. He's having a hard time keeping his liquid diet down (apple juice, tea, broth) and not able to stand or sit yet. It's hard to see him in such a vulnerable state. I don't think he'll be leaving the hospital as quickly as first thought. Which is a good thing too...round the clock nurses (who happen to be young and cute) isn't a bad thing. He needs to progress to keeping food down, moving on to more solid foods, sitting up, and walking before he can leave.

Keep praying. It is so appreciated!

On another note, Colton has started a cough this week and went to the doctor today. He has RSV. Not a huge deal for toddlers (as opposed to babies) but he is sick and feverish. Poor guy. I'm back home with him today, Nick is staying home tomorrow (so I can at least get to work one day this week!) and I'll be home again with him on Friday.

Ahhh..

I'm tired.

Thanks for the continued prayers and support!

My Dad

2009-01-25T15:52:00.000-08:00

Some of you already know that my dad was diagnosed with kidney cancer at the end of last year. His surgery to remove the kidney that the mass is on is scheduled for tomorrow at 1:30. Our family would appreciate any prayers that you would say for him. I'll be heading to Fresno tomorrow morning and will update as soon as I can.

Isn't it nice to know that God is in complete control of it all? I know that His hands will be on the surgery. :-)

The Date Has Been Set...

2009-01-20T18:15:00.000-08:00

I'm a terrible blogger.

I know.

It's just not on the top of my priority list these days.

I've also be pretty bad at e-mail too.

Sorry!

So here's some updates...
Max will be joining us April 15th. I scheduled the c-section yesterday. He's growing (and so am I). He's big (and so am I). Healthy and kicking (A Lot).

I've had the late-night panics set in lately...like "How do I grocery shop withTWO?"
Silly questions, but logistical concerns.

Thanks to friends who have been there, done that, I usually get my questions answered the next day.

Everything else is good here in our household. Nick starts golf season with his team soon. I've had a student teacher who has been great and taken on a lot of my duties at school.

We're just on the countdown now!

Happy New Year!!!

2009-01-01T07:51:00.001-08:00

Colton's 2nd Christmas

2008-12-30T09:04:00.001-08:00

Christmas was a really fun time! Colton was into the whole unwrapping presents...even very particular about getting every piece of paper off the boxes. In typical boy fashion, if a present was clothes, it was immediately thrown to the side and on to the next. (However, Mommy loved all the cute boy clothes) "Cars" seemed to be the running theme. Anything (book, race track, coloring pages, backpack, etc.) with cars on it was an instant hit. We had a lot of fun visiting our families. You can tell that I'm the photographer...I'm not in one single picture this year!! He was wired for 2 days straight. We're finally getting back to some sort of normal schedule and enjoying our time off of work!

Santa Claus

2008-12-21T06:49:00.000-08:00

We had the chance to meet Santa again last night at our neighbor's annual Christmas party. Colton was much more enthusiastic about sitting on his lap. As soon as Santa walked through the door, Colton yelled, "HI SANTA" and ran over to him. It was hard to get him away from Santa so that the other kids could have a chance to sit on his lap. Santa really became Colton's BFF when he brought Colton a Wiggles book that plays his favorite Wiggle's songs.

Christmas Lights

2008-12-20T08:40:00.000-08:00

Last night we went with our friends, The Manns, to see the Christmas Lights at CALM. Colton loved them and yelled, "OOOOOO, pretty!" at each display.

We also saw Santa there. Colton was very good about blowing Santa a kiss, saying "HI Santa", waving, and giving Santa a hug.

But he wanted NOTHING to do with sitting on Santa's lap!

Blogging Woes...

2008-12-07T19:57:00.000-08:00

I've become a very lazy blogger. Or maybe it's just the sheer busyness of life these days! Time seems to go at an accelerated rate during the holiday season. We are good here in the Kaiser home. Colton's newest development is his games that he creates. He takes great satisfaction in making up games that he wants you to participate in over and over (and over). It's very entertaining to himself (and us, of course). He's turned into quite the streaker as well. Seconds after he strips down for a bath at night...he bolts out the bedroom door and down the hall in all his glory! The freedom must feel fantistic to him! I hope that he outgrows it before kindergarten. Here are a few pictures from a day in Morro Bay during our Thanksgiving break. We went out for fish & chips and went to the small aquarium to feed the seals.

We love Morro Bay! It's always such a fun day there!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-26T19:27:00.000-08:00

We would like to say Happy Thanksgiving from our family to yours! Nick and I are so thankful for such an eventful year. God blessed us with a wonderful little boy that we have enjoyed beyond words watching grow this year. We were taken care of during Colton's diagnosis in more ways that we could imagine. Our family and friends have been such a blessing as they support us and our family in so many ways each and every day. And...we are so blessed to be expanding the Kaiser household come April 2009!

We love you all!

My Visions of Pink

2008-11-06T17:50:00.000-08:00

My visions of PINK are now a blur! Yes, we found out yesterday that we are having a second boy. Colton will be a big brother to another little boy. I am getting used to the idea of a non-stop house full of mud, bruises, and broken things! Not to mention how out-numbered I will soon be! Anyhow, we're happy to share the news and happy that everything in the ultrasound looked so healthy.

Halloween 2008

2008-11-02T14:18:00.000-08:00

Halloween morning started off with Colton NOT wanting to participate. He was fine with having on his monkey outfit, but when I tried to paint his nose, he immediately wiped it off and from then on wanted nothing more to do with it! This included smiling for any pictures or putting his binki & blankie down for a picture. As the day went on he got much more into the festivities. His daycare walked to a few houses to trick-or-treat early that morning.

That night Colton had a BLAST! He totally got the concept of trick-or-treating. Take your bucket up to the door, smile cute, get candy, turn around and scream at the top of your lungs because this is such a fun game! Everyone in the neighborhood heard our child squealing after each door. His only condition at each door was that the person not put the candy in his bucket. He wanted to do that part himself.

I gave in and let him have one piece. He stared at a piece of licorice forever and it was too cute to resist.

The Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-12T14:07:00.000-07:00

We had a fun time this weekend at Murry Family Farms (the pumpkin patch) with our friends Jenny & Cade. Colton ran the entire time he was there and gave me quite the workout. He loved every part...except when I picked him up now and then to carry him so that he would stop running. It was a good time and I think we'll be going back with Dad next weekend!

This was a giant tub of corn kernals.

Too much to look at! No time for the camera now, Mom!

Dancing to "The Monster Mash" that was playing.

Again, no time for a smile to the camera!

This was the majority of the day...chasing Colton!

Still...not gonna smile or even look!

Baby Dedication

2008-10-07T16:27:00.000-07:00

This past weekend Colton was dedicated at church. It was very sweet and he looked awfully cute in his little plaid shirt. Nana & Papa came to see the dedication. The pictures from the actual dedication at church came out really dark, but here are some from that morning.

Our good friends Jenny and Colby and their son, Cade (who was born 3 days before Colton), are back from Japan! Yea!! Colton and Cade are heading off to the pumpkin patch this coming weekend, so I'm sure we'll have some good pictures soon!

Happy 1 1/2 Birthday!

2008-09-21T07:58:00.000-07:00

In honor of his 18 month birthday, Colton decided to share 18 things about himself...

1. I LOVE my binki and blankie. There is talk that my binki might disappear, but if I have it my way, I'll be taking it to college with me.

2. I can't stand when mommy takes her cell phone away from me. I go through all the trouble of digging in her purse and then it just gets taken away. I usually scream. A lot.

3. I love to smile...and flash one to everyone... no matter who it is or where we're at. I think it helps to make the world a better place.

4. I love to play ball. Any size. Any color. Any game. Any time.

5. I HATE time-outs.

6. Snuggling at night with my mommy is a renewed interest I now have. I used to think that I didn't want to rock anymore...but now I've decided it's great and I could do it forever.

7. My dad is the best toy that's ever been invented.

8. If it were up to me, I would live outside. I say that word really well now. "Owww-side"

9. Cartoons in Mom & Dad's bed look better than the one's on the couch.

10. I call phones a "Nana" I think it's because mommy is usually talking to Nana on one and to me it's like the same thing.

11. I love food. The proof is in my cheeks.

12. The best place I've been taken to so far is the beach. I love the water, the sand, and the freedom.

13. I haven't let my shorter leg slow me down one bit. I walk. I run. And now it's on to jumping.

14. Big people veggetables are GROSS! Baby food veggetables are YUMMY!

15. I am happiest when Mommy, Daddy, and Dog-Dog are all with me.

16. I'm becoming a good finger-painter.

17. Mommy tells me I'm so smart. I believe her.

18. I love being bigger now and knowing how to do so much. But I know mommy gets sad sometimes and says I'm growing up too fast.

Weekend Away

2008-09-14T19:41:00.000-07:00

This weekend we headed to the coast to get away from this awful heat. It was so nice!!! On Saturday we spent the entire day at the beach. Colton was in heaven...

There is nothing that my child doesn't like about the beach. He loves it all...even down to the sand in his hair, mouth, and diaper.

And now it's on to Monday...I hate Mondays!

A Quick Update

2008-09-08T16:41:00.001-07:00

I'm just so lazy about the blog thing lately. I've had pictures from San Diego that I've wanted to post for weeks now. They're coming...I promise.

Life in the Kaiser household is at a norm. I'm heading toward my 8th week of pregnancy and the funny thing is...my pants are already seeming to become more snug. Way earlier than when I was pregnant with Colton! I wasn't ready for that yet...and I refuse to wear maternity clothes so early!!! I've had kind of an all-day "morning sickness" queasy feeling. Some days are worse than others and then there are those days I feel pretty good. I've tried to monitor what I'm eating to see if anything sets it off, but haven't come to a pattern yet. I'm sure the 100 plus temperatures aren't helping! I do come home every day and longingly look at the couch for a nap...a luxury I had the first time around. However, life with a toddler does not permit such things! I basically sleep any chance I get on the weekends when Colton goes down. I was scheduled for an ultrasound today to see/hear the heartbeat, but the appointment was cancelled. So I'll fill you in on that next week.

First grade has been a lot of fun. No more pee...or vomit...or kids running away out of the classroom. Last Friday we painted pictures of fish with water colors and the room was SILENT. Then one little girl commented that it was the best day of school ever and that she couldn't wait to come back on Monday. There are a lot of cute comments here and there that help to make it a lot of fun. And they are SO excited when they learn something new! I do still miss my sweet 5th graders and have had a lot of last year's students come to visit. They hang out in my classroom and help the 1st graders on work or help me. I think I miss the conversation that I could have with the older kids and they way I could relate and connect to them. It's just a different ballgame with the little ones!

Anyhow, I will work on some more pictures! Colton seems to get bigger by the day. His newest word is "outside"...usually said in question form as he points out the window. Pretty cute.

The Things We Do...

2008-08-31T17:00:00.000-07:00

to our poor child to keep our adult selves entertained!

Today I was finally getting laundry folded, when Colton crawled into the basket. It soon became a game of peek-a-boo as he would throw clothes over his head. Well, it turned into Mommy & Daddy burying Colton...which he loved even more. But somehow I think we were more entertained than him.

I've made it through two weeks of 1st grade! In those two weeks, I had two wet their pants in class, one throw-up, and one that continually ran out of the classroom. Ahh...and to think that I willfully chose to move grades! Overall it's been pretty good. It is cute when they tell you how much they love you (already) and I had one ask when they were going to get some homework. Love that enthusiasm!

Most of you have seen the new ticker at the bottom of this blog. Yes, we are pregnant. So far, so good. It's early to be telling, but we figured better to have people praying for a healthy baby, right? We have an ultrasound in a week to see the heartbeat. My energy level has taken a nosedive, and I've been sick to my stomach here and there...but that's about it. We're obviously very excited! :-)

Beachwood BBQ

2008-08-24T13:52:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks before the madness of going back to school came, Nick and I took a trip down to San Diego with our friends, Chris & Lisa. On the way back home we stopped in Seal Beach to have lunch at Beachwood BBQ. It is an amazing little place that was opened a couple years back by my good friend Lena, and her husband Gabe. I'm not kidding...the food is amazing! The deep fried pickles, pulled pork sandwich and sweet potato fries were to die for. Not to mention, the ambiance of the place is so cozy and quaint. If you ever are stopping through that part of Southern California, it's right off the 405, and a must have lunch or dinner spot. I'm already craving it again!

Here are Nick and Colton waiting for food. Oh yeah, and see back on the far end of the table? Those are the homemade BBQ and mustard sauces you can pour on your meats. YUM!!!

This is the bar portion. They offer around 25 micro brews and never have the same beer twice. So when the tap runs out, it's time to try another. On the wall is the list of the different brews.

Colton and his new girlfriend, Lena, out front. (Yes, I know he's too old for that binki!! We're working on it. Give a mom a break!! )

Miss you, Lena!!! Even as I post this now, it's just another reminder of how we all grow up and go our own ways. Love you and can't wait to see you again!

http://www.beachwoodbbq.com

131 1/2 Main Street

Seal Beach, CA 90740

(562) 493-4500

Twas the Night Before First Grade

2008-08-17T16:38:00.000-07:00

Twas the night before First Grade

when the teacher was stressing,

Why she decided to change grade levels,

That, she was still guessing.

Her classroom was decorated,

Her plans were done,

Yet she was still so nervous

About when they would come.

She anticipated some crying

And maybe wet pants too,

Again, why was it she left

The grade she so thoroughly knew?

And so she thought

She must sign onto her blog

Because after tomorrow,

She would surely be in a fog.

Sorry it's been SO long since a post! I even have pictures of our trip to San Diego and my good friend, Lena's, fabulous restaurant! I promise they are coming. I've been swamped getting ready for tomorrow. And so NERVOUS! I promise to update more this week and include some long-awaited pictures. Love to you all!

The Cowboys' Training Camp

2008-07-29T18:14:00.000-07:00

On Monday we headed down to Oxnard to see the Dallas Cowboys practice. Nick was like a kid in a candy shop. Personally, I just thought it was fun to see the guy who is now dating Jessica Simpson (Tony Romo) and T.O. who always seems to be getting press for something arrogant he's done. I'm a reality and media junkie...what can I say?! It was a fun time. :-)

Here is T.O. (#81). I never could snap quick enough when he was turned around actually facing our way.

"Rowdy" the Cowboy mascot. He was fun for Colton to watch.

Tony Romo after practice.

Future fan?...We'll have to wait and see!

Another Step Toward...

2008-07-27T08:59:00.000-07:00

Becoming a TODDLER! Colton has now graduated from strictly high chair to sitting in his high chair with us at the dinner table. He's growing up so fast...sigh.

He's just grown up so much lately. So independent and so funny. His newest tricks are the many words that he says now, running, trying very hard to jump (by squatting all the way down and going up really fast...not quite there yet) and of course throwing a ball around all day long. Nick and I aren't sure when you can determine for sure whether a child is a lefty or righty, but Colton only throws balls with his left hand. So perhaps he'll be a lefty...I cringe at that being a teacher and knowing how students struggle somewhat being left-handed...but Nick loves the prospect of a left-handed golfer or baseball player. Oh, and Colton also dances to everything, but his most favorite song is "Can You Point Your Fingers and do The Twist? by The Wiggles. He points his fingers and goes to town...wanting everyone to watch!

We've had Nick's mom here and my parents over the last week and Colton has been getting little sleep. This is how I found him in his crib one night after all the company was gone. Exhausted!

Our Trip

2008-07-19T10:04:00.001-07:00

Last week we headed to the beach! It was a lot of fun...and a lot of work! Colton took off immediately the first day that we were there and never stopped. We visited all of the beaches, including Cayucos, Pismo, Avila, and Morro Bay. We even stopped by the Atascadero Zoo for Colton's very first trip to the zoo. Nick had a lot of fun taking Colton through the waves in the Big Red Car. We learned that the car floats! :-) It was a good time, but we're happy to be home so that we can get back on some sort of napping schedule.

Gannoway BBQ

2008-07-13T14:14:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we went to a BBQ at the Gannoways. It was good food and swimming. Thanks to Corrie and Corey (hope I got those right) for the hospitality. I wish I would have taken more pics of their backyard. Their house and yard are beautiful! Josh, Kristi, Claire, Colby, Jenny, and Cade were missed! Can't wait until we can all hang out at the same time again!

Tiffany, Corrie, & Melissa

Corey cooking.

Bill & Nick

Joel & Melissa

Everyone!

You know this guy. By the way...he loved the fact that Corrie & Melissa cut up watermelon and that Corey cooked the sweet sausages (which he thought were made just for him). "Where's my BFF, Cade?" We're off to the beach for this week! Finally some cooler weather!

4th of July BBQ

2008-07-06T10:21:00.001-07:00

We had a great time over at the Mann's house for a 4th of July BBQ. We swam and had good burgers. Colton has a lot of fun watching Luke run around. Luke shows Colton all kinds of tricks, like running and putting the basketball into the hoop.

Nick and I got home around 8:00 and we all layed down. I went outside around 9:00 to watch the different fireworks shows that could be seen in the distance. Nick was too tired to get up (party pooper). So, I enjoyed it with our next door neighbors. How things have changed with a child...I can remember when the 4th was such a big deal! Some of my best memories are from the 4th of July in high school, spending the night out at the beach and then in college. Ahh..memories. And I can't leave out the times with my girls, Lena and Allison, down in Santa Monica. You too, Gabe! Yes, indeed the 4th of July has been forever changed. It won't be long before we can head to the beach for fireworks like we used to as a family...and then not too much longer when I'll be the nervous mom with my child at the beach with his friends!!!

Nick and Larry are getting the floor done...it looks AMAZING!!! Colton has been in on the action as well. Papa has shown him how to hammer the floor down with the rubber mallet. He loves it! I'll post pictures soon!

Happy 4th of July!

2008-07-04T14:36:00.001-07:00

Colton got into the patriotic spirit this morning with his flag! He proudly waved it around the back yard. We are heading to our friends, The Mann's, for a BBQ. There is sure to be more pictures tomorrow of the festivities! Enjoy your 4th, everyone.

Just Because

2008-07-04T06:31:00.001-07:00

I wanted to get some pictures up from this week. We had a tough week...Colton had a fever for 5 days, that spiked to 105.4 in the middle of the night on Tuesday. Off to the emergency room we went (for the second time in the past 3 weeks!!!). They just medicated it with Motrin and Tylenol. And mommy medicated it with tepid sponge baths. My pediatrician says that many kids have been in this week with very high fevers and no other symptoms. As of yesterday, Colton's fever was gone. Just a little (okay, a lot) cranky because he's still not feeling fantastic. Here are some pics from the week...

This rocking chair is mine from when I was little. My mom has lugged it all around for years, and then Nick and I have carted it around...finally it's getting some use. It needs an updated paint job, but Colton has really loved playing with it. He LOVES books (his favorite being, Goodnight Moon) and he'll sit in the chair and "read" a book for 15-20 minutes. (Those cheeks!!!)

Nick and I are getting ready to put wood floor in our dining room and bedroom tomorrow. So we also ripped out carpet this week.

One last pic...I'm not sure who the bigger ham is!

Into Everything!

2008-06-29T08:57:00.000-07:00

Friends have warned me to put a lock on everything that you don't want your child in because kids get into e-v-e-r-y-t-h-i-n-g!!! Yesterday it became very quiet at one point in the day and I knew that something was up. So I went on a hunt for Colton and found this...

My underware drawer had been ransacked and Colton found a new toy to occupy his time for a while. He also put it on Brady quite a few times so the dog could be involved in the fun too!

Later in the day he had some fun with the empty diapers box...

Colton Stats. Update

2008-06-26T15:48:00.000-07:00

Colton had his 15 month check-up today. All is well with him, as he continues to grow. He's now 27 pounds (25 in March), 32 1/4 inches (30 3/4 in March) on his longer side, and his head is a whopping 20 cm (don't laugh...it's genetic). He's still very much on the bigger end of the spectrum as far as kids his age. We kindly refused the MMR immunization today, as I just seem to feel that there is so much information to both sides of the controversy. Better to be safe than sorry. I'm just going to wait until he's 2 before that particular immunization.

His stitches from the battle wound have almost peeled off and he's continuing to crawl on every piece of furniture in the house and run (and wipe out) constantly. He is now in to hitting his plastic golf club against every ball in sight (go figure...Dad does the same thing). As he hits the ball he proudly yells, "BALL".

Nick and I are back to home do-it projects. I finally have picked out the new color of our bedroom after painting the wall 5 different ones just to find the right shade of gray. Hopefully our bedroom walls won't look like this much longer!

Our Trip to Urgent Care

2008-06-18T17:04:00.000-07:00

Today started off like any other...coffee, milk (for Colton), The Wiggles, and breakfast. And then...BAM!!! Colton knocked his forehead into the corner of the fireplace and took out a chunck of skin. Once I got the buckets of blood to finally stop, I realized that he probably needed stitches. So my wonderful neighbor, Patty, and I were off to Urgent Care. Two hours later, Colton came home with liquid stitches and a new teddy bear (compliments of the nurses who thought he was so cute). I'm sure this will be the first of many times like this. God gave me a little boy so that we could keep it real around this place!!! P.S. Colton is doing just fine now. Just pray he doesn't bust the stitches open since he refuses to stop running around the house!

The Art of Self-Feeding

2008-06-17T18:43:00.000-07:00

Wow! Who knew learning to self-feed with a utensil could entail such messes...and such patience (on the part of Mom, that is!)? It's a summer goal of mine to have Colton get this down.

He definately enjoys the process of getting the spoon to his mouth and feels quite proud when it makes it there. The hard part is just maneuvering it around so that he can get every last bite off the spoon and into his mouth.

As you can see...every last bite doesn't usually make it to its destination!

I finally did it!

2008-06-15T09:14:00.000-07:00

I have been asked over and over to get a blog spot going so that people could keep up to date with our family happenings. Well...summer is here and I finally am feeling like I have the time to do it. Not to mention, my friend, Jenny, has a great blog that I love visiting!

As many of you know, our son, Colton, is almost 15 months now. He is an active, "all boy", go-go-go personality. It's nonstop from morning till night. Here are some pictures of our summer fun so far over the past few weeks.

This has been the greatest toy of the summer so far!

Colton loves the pool!!! He's even getting use

d to the headband that he has to wear to keep his earplugs in. Whenever we exit the pool (usually after about an hour or when his hands and feet are wrinkled) he throws a HUGE protest.