Murphy Family

caualty #2

2011-12-29T17:45:00.000-08:00

So Ainsley was having a rough day already, she had her 2 year old dr. check up and had to get a flu shot. girl wasn't happy about the needle. She was playing upstairs with Finn and I, and being so cute, when she screamed bloody murder and ran over to me crying. I picked her up instinctively wanting her to be comforted when she raised up her foot for me to kiss (she makes me kiss all boo boos), when I saw the blood. She had gashed her foot pretty badly. I made sure she was okay and ran over to see what she had cut it on (so Finn couldn't cut something too).....you'll see what it was at the end of the post. (I feel bad I took a picture while she looked so upset, but I wanted it documented)

I looked at it and cleaned it with alcohol (girl didn't like that) and did my momma doctor bandage job. I think I did pretty well. What do you think?

She's a good patient, she watched and listened to each step as I told her what I was doing. She stayed pretty calm and even took care of herself by putting "cold cookie" on her poor foot.

Just a few minutes after the bandaid went on she was all better. She kept saying "it's scary, it's scary" so I took patrick's advice and just reassured her she was a "tough girl" and all was well.

The sneaky owl and his razor talons did the damage. He was laying upside down on the ground under another soft toy...he broke through that and her heel. (mom: I know you bought this for Finn, no worries, she really is okay, don't feel bad like I know you will want to.)

Big Girl is 2!!!!

2011-12-20T07:54:00.000-08:00

She couldn't believe the big day was here! (Sunday December 18th)

She was unsure about the candles until she realized she got to blow them out, and girl did she try....she ended up blowing her bangs out of her face more than putting the candles out, but it was a good effort.

She delicately liked off the icing just like last year.....

This year...same hand gestures just more hair and personality! Same beautiful blue eyes.

Cousin Kiera and Cousin Delaney helped her with the wrapping paper (she wasn't sure about ripping it at first).

What a great family and friends we have to share this great celebration with us. (notice Finn playing the iPad-that's what he did the whole party, that kid loves his video games-mostly educational:)

Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday Dear Ainsley, Happy Birthday to you. We love you so much. You are fun, happy and always up for a great adventure.....I hope you never change:)

Soul sister 2.0

2011-12-15T15:58:00.001-08:00

Ainsley is also a fan of Justin Bieber. I just caught her singing "baby, baby, baby, ohhh". (don't ask why I know that's a Bieber song)

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Cute pic

2011-12-15T15:47:00.001-08:00

The kids playing iPad nicely together. Ainsley got off the couch to "cheese" for me.

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Soul sister

2011-12-15T15:45:00.001-08:00

I'm not making this up... Ainsley started singing Adele's "someone like you" in the car. I was jamming to my melancholy song and all of a sudden Ainsley's super high pitched angel voice broke in and joined Adele in her soulful rendition. It was pretty awesome. Guess I listen to Adele more than I thought if Ainsley has caught onto the words.

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Big girl adventures, big brother too.

2011-12-14T10:59:00.001-08:00

Ainsley is getting ready to turn 2! She has so much personality, and we love it.

She definitely likes to steal daddy's big cup of soda (water)

She also is somewhat addicted to ketchup. She will dip anything in it, including fruit. Gross or delicious.

Or she will just eat it straight out of the container.

She and Finn went to the dentist for the first time (not daddy, but our friend Sarah who's the best pedidontist around). No cavities! Yay, but lots of wiggling and whining- even though they are used to daddy priding around there were still some dramatics. Finn wore himself out. This is straight out of the car before lunch and a nap afterwards.

Ainsley got her first bug girl present. My mom and sister came over and did a big girl makeover for Ainsley. She's still in her crib until we "have" to move her, for safety and convenience sake. But she lives pretending she sleeps in the big girl bed.

Her eyes lit up. She was so excited. She also was a bit confused with the owls and kept calling them chickens.

Then today we had bumper cars indoors. Yes the two of them love these two cars! We have drive in movie afternoons a lot around here lately. (I have no idea what Ainsley is doing-guttural yowl?)

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Mischief

2011-12-08T13:56:00.001-08:00

Ainsley has paid good attention to Patrick shaving in the morning, too much attention. The other day while I was putting away laundry she snuck into our bathroom and tried it herself. The result was blood everywhere, Ainsley laughing (seriously?) me screaming and crying and Finn just looking at me like I was nuts. She was "okay" but as I've learned head wounds bleed like crazy. I got her to sit still while I cleaned her up and got a bandage on it (go nurse mommy), no stitches needed but it's still healing. I thought girls were supposed to be the careful ones?

She got to go play with cousin Liam today too. He wore her out and she took the first nap she's had in about a week:) yes they are both crammed under there!?kids.

Baby Henry was so sweet and quiet.

Finn did some messy play the other day and loved it!

Patrick and I got out for a night at a fundraiser. Very fun!!! Interesting story about bidding on a Paris trip-ask if you want the embarrassing details:) overall a very fun night raising money and awareness for Down Syndrome.

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Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T19:35:00.001-08:00

I got up and did the Kirkwood/Webster turkey day run. (only the 3 mile, I needed to conserve energy for eating:)

Then we headed over to papa Bob's and Grandma Lolly's for lunch. Ainsley found a new love in Cranberry sauce. She and her uncle Dan are the only two who like it-so she dug in.

Patrick and Finn enjoyed the meal too. Finn ate his keto-pancake and strawberries and then got to play with my iphone while we all finished. He was such a good boy, so patient. And this is his serious look because he wanted my phone to play games.

Cousin Liam (2.75) refused to smile but I think it's because we were all trying to get him to eat. He is known as Ainsley's partner in anarchy. When these two get around each other they simply can't run fast enough or scream loud enough:) he looks innocent here, but don't be fooled.

This is cousin Delaney (5), Ainsley, and cousin Kiera (7). They all wore their hello kitty for the grandkids pic. Ainsley adores these girls. Seriously. As soon as they came through the door Ainsley dropped Liam like a bad habit and trailed after them like a little poodle. But no worried Liam found his way into the fold:)

Here are the best and funniest grandkids photos.
(we told Ainsley to try to look bored)

also the baby boy in front is baby Henry (5 mo). He was busy during lunch smearing corn all over his face.

Singing if you're happy and you know it shout hooray.

Finn getting restless.

Ainsley acting really bored.

Ainsley showing her good side:)

Overall a really great time with the family. Off to my parent's tomorrow.

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Team spirit

2011-11-21T11:15:00.001-08:00

Just a little Mizzou spirit in our house lately!

Also, cute story.

Ainsley ran to the front window this morning after Patrick left for work. She was banging on the window shouting "paatrrk" -guess she was wanting him to come back:) We need to work on calling him daddy not paatrrk:)

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Happy Halloween 2011

2011-11-01T09:06:00.000-07:00

Well we had a quite fun Halloween here. We skipped trick-or-treating and went up to Frontenac Pottery Barn to visit Mema (my mom), and then drove home just in time for bed. No tears over missed candy, and everyone was happy.

Yes, I am that mom that refuses to give her kids candy. I promise I do not judge anyone for giving their kids candy. Remember I am married to a dentist and candy is somewhat a taboo in our house (unless it's the adults eating it). But since Finn can't have candy because of his diet and also because I'm convinced that if Ainsley ate candy, she wouldn't sleep for two days straight, we passed on trick-or-treating.

We still had fun handing out candy (king sized reese peanut butter cups), yes you want to come to our house, we don't eat it, but we sure do love to give it out:) and we also had fun dressing up. Ainsley is a park ranger-what Finn was at age 2, and Finn was Buzz Lightyear.

Don't let the smile fool you, she will make sure you tie up your food and put out your campfire correctly! She likes to think of herself as Smokey the Bear's assistant (like vanna of the forest)

His best Buzz impression, hmmmm?

cheese?!

this is the best cheese from Ainsley, I think I was a second or two late for Finn's true cheese.

..."to infinity and beyond." with jello:)

One last cheese for the camera.....hope you had fun trick-or-treating......until next year.

Catch up, BIG TIME.

2011-10-26T12:37:00.000-07:00

So we've been up to a lot since August. I got so far behind on posting that this is a smash up of all the highlights....kinda:)

Daddy and the kids playing the piano together.....one of the kids favorite pastimes lately.

(this is all out of order, so i appologize, but bear with me) in September we went to the Clayton Art Fair and picked up a few new pieces for our walls.....Alicia LeChance....we love her stuff.

We all went down to Forest Park for a picnic dinner and for the Balloon Glow.

We didn't stay for the balloon glow though, there were too many flashing lights....not good for epilepsy, and plus the kids were falling asleep....well, really just Ainsley.

I had a friend have an awesome baby clothing sale at her house and got lots of adorable stuff for Ainsley. Before this sale I was fearful she'd just always be mistaken for a boy in Finn's old clothes. Now she has some dresses, pink and purple:)

She was very excited. AHHHH!

our little monkey.

Falling asleep in the car is her MO.

or stealing Finn's helmet.

asleep again. teething has put her in a place of refusing to nap and then sleeping everywhere but her crib....it's still cute at this age:)

Enjoying some of the warmer days in the sandbox.

Enjoying the front porch sitting after a long morning at school.

AHHH! again. We think this is her favorite face to make. it's a good one, it makes you smile, or say AHHH...future dentist?

I love when Finn laughs, it's a full face participation laugh, from his eyes to his mouth.

More sandbox.

Patrick and his buddies (Sam and Andy) participated in the MS 150 in Columbia this year. Good work, and well done. I think they might still be waddling around after that one. But they plan to do it again next year if you want to donate:)

so it's been what over a month since we've posted....sorry. life got away from us, in a good way.

Patrick and I made it to Chicago for our (early) 5 year Anniversary trip.

Here's some cool street art that Patrick found in an alley. We saw a documentary on the guy who composed it:) cool huh?

Chicago Library.
here we are in the park.outside the art museum....we spent so much time in there, it's a really great museum, lots of classics.
at gino's east....yes we brought books....after 5 years you get tired of talking:) hehe.
at the hotel bar:)
out for a run by the lake and through the park.
one of those silly boat tours:) yes we are that cheesy, but it was really fun.
i love this picture (even the old red fleece-it's grown on me)
the tribune building.
out for a breakfast! tempo diner, one of my favorites!
the skyline.
so that's what we've been up to. These are just the pictures from my phone, so once I download Patrick's there may be more to come. Hope you feel caught up:)

Okay, I've officially joined the club!

2011-08-25T13:20:00.001-07:00

The club I never thought I'd be a part of-or even want to be a part of. If you had asked me even 5 short years ago I would have said no one wants to be in that club they are forced into it. But for the last year I've been dreaming if the day I finally get to join. Planning what I'd wear in my first picture, what my hair would look like, every little detail. Well, yesterday it came true....

I'm finally part if the mommy, minivan club!!!

I put in my Econ major hat and strutted out to the car dealership and negotiated my way to my dream van (2011 Honda Odyssey EX in polished metal) I have to say I played hard ball and got a better deal than I thought I'd get-it gave me such a rush. I have bored and taunted Patrick with details if my research and negotiating strategy for the past couple of months and I think my preparation paid off $$$ big time.

So if you this hot mom of 2 in a new minivan gimme a honk. If I can figure out all the gadgets I'll roll down my window and wave back:)

Oh and just to show "I ain't no dummy" I made sure I turned the car in before I filled up the tank. (and yes I did get a full tank of gas with the new van)

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Happy Friday

2011-08-19T14:08:00.001-07:00

Today we got our new couch. But I wasn't so sure I wanted it to come. I was really enjoying having to pile into one chair to watch sesame street. Cuddle-TV-Time is my favorite time of day, any day.

We did get the couch but as you can see one of the pieces came in the wrong color. I made them leave it bc they can't bring the real one until next week. So this week our house looks eclectic.

Finn is enjoying his iPad on it. Notice he's smiling at the talking kitty not me:) priorities.

Ainsley and I have claimed the corner seat.

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First Day of School

2011-08-17T13:58:00.000-07:00

Ainsley wasn't sure about this whole "first day of school" thing going on . She made sure I knew she was NOT going. Good thing we have a year to work on her:) I think she would have been happy if it was her, personally, but I think she wasn't happy Finn go to go somewhere fun without having to bring her along.

So Finn had his first day of preschool for the year today. (he started back on his birthday in March), but this will be his first full year of preschool. So, first day of school with all the otehr first day of school kids. I'm pretty sure he was excited because in the car he kept saying "hi" in his high pitched voice and reaching out to hold my hand....which is his normal behavior for when he's happy and excited about something:)

He's in the duck room this year, and as far as I know he liked his first day. He was beet red when he came out the door smiling at me.....so I know he got some exercise. I think tomorrow he'll be rearing to go, because this kid loves school and learning new things.

I have posted multiple pictures because of course as his mom I had a hard time picking which one I liked best. enjoy. (and yes, I did cry, but I waited until I got to the car, unlike when he started in March and I cried in the hallway outside the front office)

I think he looks like the disgruntled teenager in this one....like "mo-om seriously are you done yet?"
(ps. the wet spot is from spilling water while brushing his teeth, not anything else.)

Do blondes have more fun?

2011-08-13T05:41:00.001-07:00

So about two weeks ago I wanted a drastic change and almost shaved my head. But I first thought about having to grow back all my hair and that seemed to daunting. I've always wanted to shave my head, but have never had the guts to do it. I have a friend who did it during rush our freshman year in college and I always envied her boldness. But when it came down to it, I chickened out. Maybe it was a good thing.

I still had to do something different with my hair so here goes. Yesterday I changed it up.
Here's the before.

During.

After. Yup, I went blonde. I wanted to see for myself if they have more fun.

I also got some hot pink feathers. And I have to say blondes do have fun, but no more than brunettes. I do feel like I can get away with forgetting things more maybe or saying things like Jessica Simpson used to-jk. that part is definitely fun:)

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August update

2011-08-13T05:25:00.001-07:00

Ainsley has become full on girl at moments (she's still somewhat a Tom boy, but the girl loves shoes).

She found my winter Uggs and was so excited to wear them around.

She even urged for help to put them back on when she'd fall over and on would slip off.

Finn has been much more interactive and smiley.

Being coy.

I got a great treat and headed to a local hotel with some girlfriends for a night of girl time. So great! We went to Casa Gallardo for dinner and got a nice pitcher of much needed margaritas.

We had a good night of talking, looking through magazines, going to the hot tub and watching free cable. We treated ourselves to a late breakfast of spencer's grill, which is my all-time favorite!!!

Patrick had some good daddy-kids time.

Ainsley has started climbing EVERYTHING. We are shocked with what she can get on top of.

Wearing grandma's glasses. A look at what she will look like in 60 years. I think she'll be a cute grandma one day.

Finn with his cute dimple.

Ainsley is still into horseback riding like mommy. When she gets older we will let her ride a real pony.

Cousin kiera and delaney came over to play. The girls loved their crafts.

Notice finn snuck over and wanted to join the fun.

I got him to color for about 2seconds and then he wanted his cars again.

Finn has really gotten into looking for stoplights. He loves telling us when they are green.

Ainsley and her love of shoes is growing into even her brother's old spiderman slippers. They are her new favorite. She makes us put them on before she will go to bed at night.

She also has found a love for Popsicles. This is her having her very first one ever.

Ainsley has learned sometimes it's hard to motivate daddy, so this is her solution.

Finn has also become quite the commedian. He loves to make us laugh at his silliness. I love it!

That's just a cap of what we've been up to this summer.

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Fun hot summer

2011-07-21T08:49:00.001-07:00

Well Patrick had guys group last Thursday and Ainsley got into the recycling the next morning. She may have a problem with drinking and driving. Thankfully it was empty and the cap was on. And, yes, I realize posting this pic may show some holes in our babyproofing that has held until now.

Finn and Ainsley and I all got the stomach flu last week. It was awful and finn was really tired for about a week afterward. He even laid in The middle of the floor to watch cartoons.

Patrick and I officially paid off his student loans from dental school so we celebrated with a date night. We went out for steak (with our groupon) and then went to see Harry Potter-and yes it was great!

Grandma Lolly and papa Bob watched the kids for us. Thank you! It was nice to get out with Patrick, and the kids do love their grandparents.

I also got a bit handy this week too. I replaced our baby gate at the stairs that was broken. But in the process I got the drill bit stuck in the post. Oops.

No worries I got it out and finished the job.

I also got around to hanging these great letters that my friend Melinda so thoughtfully made for me for Christmas. They are perfect for our style and I was so
excited to get them up.

Ainsley rolled around on the floor helping.

Ainsley and I got to go to tilles park Tuesday morning with some friends. She loved the "fwowas".

We also enjoyed the swings-it was so hot we had to get some wind in her pink face.

She thoroughly enjoyed it.

Then the sprinklers came on and it was great, wet fun.

She just ran around giggling.

And she really liked the drain.

Finn had a gray last week of summer school. This day he didn't want to drink his milk so he let md know and spilled 1/2 of it down his shirt-we now are experiencing the terrible 3's. But he's still wonderful to us.

His last day of school I got there early for pick up and got to watch Jim share snack time with his classmates. He looked so old sitting there eating his jello like the big boy he is. He also got praised by his teachers for his skills with the spoon and jello:)

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Hot day

2011-07-11T11:14:00.001-07:00

Okay seriously. I know I'm about the 30th person to comment on the STL heat wave, but whew it's hot. (yes the thermometer is registering over 100*)

So I made this cool feeling lunch.

And I also ate two pieces of toast and 1twix bar. (it would have been healthier if I had just stuck with the carrots and salad, oh well)

Then since it's too hot to do anything else, I've pumped up the AC and plan on curling up with a good book:)

Enjoy the hot summer days. I'll be thinking of these this winter when it's below zero:)

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MS 150

2011-07-10T05:39:00.001-07:00

Hey all. Just a quick post.

Patrick and two of his buddies have signed up to ride in the MS 150 this fall. I'm really excited he's doing this. It's supposed to be a great ride, and it's for a great cause. My brother in law was diagnosed with MS over 10 years ago. I just wanted to let you know that there will be a future post about how you can support Patrick and his team-"the flesh pistons" (and the MS community) if you feel called to.

4th of July and beyond

2011-07-09T19:03:00.001-07:00

Finn is really into books lately. It's really fun. He's always lives reading with us. But lately I've found him reading to himself-so proud.

My friend Kady from college had some adorable shots of her son Jack in their blog with corn and it made me realize Ainsley had never had it on the cob before, so we tried. She loved it!!!

Finn sat by and giggled. He was a good sport since he wasn't allowed to have any (bc of his ketogenic diet)

We all did rub on tatoos for the 4th. Ainsley wanted hers off as soon as it was on. Notice the sad face.

Tatoo twins.

Patrick took Ainsley to Cuba, Mo with some other daddies and daughters for the weekend. So Finn and I ventured to our first movie together. It was a sensory friendly viewing of Cars 2 (it was awesome, AMC does it every so often for kids with autism and special needs. It was great, lights up and sound down, and kids are able to run around. It was great for Finn)

He even sat for the whole movie.

He did his classic line ip of items and here it was totally normal and accepted.

And when Ainsley and Patrick got back I got a surprise. Ainsley had a tick in her hair. Uck. I hate ticks, and bugs for that matter. Thanks to a tip from my mother in law I smothered it with nail polish and plucked it out.

Gross.

Patrick turned 36 on the 19 of June and he was granted a brand new road bike built just for him. Happy birthday honey!

Ainsley taking cover.

Hamming it up.

Finn has started showing his frustration with me by biting. This time he bit before he looked to make sure it was me he was biting. He got himself pretty good-I say it's a taste of his own medicine. I'm just hoping this makes him think twice about doing it to me again.

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Weekend getaway

2011-07-09T19:01:00.001-07:00

We got away two weekends ago to KC just fir one night. One of our long time friends was getting married.

Trusty driver.

Weird statue down on the plaza. Thought it was funny. The frog is spitting on the little boy (not the other way around)

On the plaza, we came here 6 years ago when we were dating. Fun, fun.

This was the reception at this neat old carriage museum. Very cool setting. The wedding was outside infront of an old home at sunset, it was perfect.

Finn at home with the grandparents.

Ainsley refused to smile for the camera.

When we got home finn was so excited he peed the cushion.

Stoic child:)

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Video? Dare I try?

2011-06-23T09:46:00.001-07:00

I'm trying to become more technologically advanced, but I'm not sure if I'm all that good yet. Trial and error. Let's see if this works.

YouTube Video

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Pool time

2011-06-22T14:42:00.001-07:00

We had our first mommy daughter pool date this morning. Ainsley was very pleased. We had a great time-great weather. Then we picked up Finn from school and went on an hour long walk. Great day so far.

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Cute kids

2011-06-21T18:11:00.001-07:00

Our sweet nieces, Delaney and Kiera. Kiera had a dance recital-I saw video she was amazing. Very talented! Ainsley loves these girls- I'm so glad she has such great role models to look up to.

Ainsley in her new (2nd hand dress).

Finn and A playing with their new borrowed puzzle.

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Happy Birthday Daddy

2011-06-20T14:59:00.001-07:00

Sunday was Patrick's 36th birthday. He said he had the best day ever. We went for a nice long walk with the kids in the morning and then Patrick and his younger brother went to a cards game. Then, had pizza with us when he got home, then read a book on the back patio until bed.

Ainsley watching her fairy movie (ignore my face please)

At bath time on father's day Finn found "something" that made daddy proud of his little man.

Ainsley had some serious diaper wedgie today.

Hope the funny pics made you smile.

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Weekend with mommy

2011-06-12T07:22:00.001-07:00

Here's one last pic of our awful weekend (Friday to Wednesday) with out air. Ainsley was such z champ, she slept in my office without sun shades just perfectly.

Patrick was in KC this weekend for a bachelor party so me and the kids ran around doing errands and having fun on our own. Ainsley has started making this fake/real smile that is priceless.

Thus is really it, but the light was awful. Squint and you can see the huge cheese.

Finn had a rough saturday. He woke up with a fever again and had two fairly large seizures before 11am. I was shocked at how calmly was, but knew I didn't really have a choice, but he's doing much better today.

Finn has learned to open door handles of all shapes now. He loves opening and shutting doors. I'm so proud of him but curious how to contain him now. Hmm.

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Hair cut

2011-06-03T06:34:00.001-07:00

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Not afraid of heights

2011-05-28T06:41:00.001-07:00

Ainsley has begun that stage of climbing. We only went through a short period with Finn. He wasn't interested in being high above the ground. Ainsley on the other hand loves climbing on anything possible.

She couldn't figure out how to get down...

So she just climbed higher.

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Mother's day

2011-05-16T05:56:00.001-07:00

Patrick and I got to go to a cards game to enjoy some kidfree time and it was so much fun. We were cracking jokes and laughing the whole day. I love my husband and am so glad I got to marry my best friend. And so thankful for the blessings of our two great kids.

The kids must have gotten the memo about mother's day bc the both crawled into my lap for books one afternoon.

Patrick got me coffee and breakfast along with some wild balloons. Ainsley fell for the decoy balloons and didn't beg for my breakfast. It was nice to eat my whole meal.

And she was happily entertained.

Later she found Patrick's old xbox headsets and chewed in those for a while.

Then finn gave me more cuddle time. Oh I just love cuddling on the couch.

He loves watching tv! Haha.

Finn made a choochoo pic at school. His is the one on green paper.

Summer is not our friend. He's already overheating at school. So we've ordered a cooling vest and are hopeful it will help this summer. I'll keep you posted.

Ainsley loves being outside so we will see how summer pans out. All I can say is I love these 60 degree days they are perfect for our family.

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Rain? No problem.

2011-05-10T09:22:00.001-07:00

Ainsley and I joined some friends at the park this morning while Finn was at pre-school. It started to rain a little but after we got to the park. But no worries the older kids showed the little ones how to jump and splash in the puddles. Emma and Ainsley caught on quickly.

Ainsley liked the frog approach, most water accessibility.

Before we got to the park we ran some errands and stopped by Lubeley's bakery for a donut for the good errant girl in the back seat.

She loved it. It was a treat for me to get to give her the treat too.

This was yesterday before Finn had a seizure. I went in my room to put away some laundry and came out to this. I have no idea how Ainsley got up there without Finn kicking her in the face. Sweet loving siblings. I'm happy to report that after Finn's seizure (he was passed out for a while) Ainsley was very concerned and pet his head and gave him an obscene amount of kisses. I love these kids so much!

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Loving the sunshine

2011-05-06T10:34:00.001-07:00

Ainsley got treated to a cinnamon roll and some park time with grandma Lolly tuesday.

She loves to drink from straws now. I was quite impressed she could do it to be honest.

Finn giggling with papa Bob and bear beat.

Our great friend's, the Hogan's, gave us this wonderful slide for our back yard. We've been outside almost every afternoon playing on it. Thank you Hogan's!

Before dinner tv time is coveted in our house. The kids are like zombies when Oso goes on.

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Hello Mrs. Donald Trump

2011-05-06T10:27:00.001-07:00

Ainsley has mastered the comb-over. Such a proud moment.

You're Fiiied!! (you're fired)

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No nap, no problem

2011-05-02T16:11:00.001-07:00

Ainsley wouldn't take a nap this afternoon, so by the time pre-dinner tv time she was a little pooped. She opted to lay on the couch upside down to watch Special Agent Oso.

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First fieldtrip

2011-04-28T13:38:00.001-07:00

Finn had his first field trip EVER today. And I got to help chaperone. We went to the transportation museum and it was finally a sunny day after all this rain. It really was a great day for a field trip, and was so much fun.

Doing his good morning song and shaking hands with his classmates.

On the school bus, he was so excited. He lived looking out the window at everything going by. And he was so cute he snuggled next to me and asked for a kiss halfway through the trip. My heart just melted. I love our little boy.

Checking out the trains.

On the trolley. He didn't know what to do.

Lots of walking but our little champ kept up.

On the train.

He was just taking it all in.

As soon as we got home Ainsley wanted to put on Finn's backpack and pretend she was a big girl going to school. She was so excited!

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Spring time fun and allergies

2011-04-25T05:59:00.001-07:00

These are some pics from my Playdate with ains a few weeks back when it was warmer.

We were so inspired by the nice weather that we went out to the backyard that afternoon with Finn.

The kids wanted back inside with the toys at first. It was pretty funny.

But I brought books and a blanket and farm animals so we could enjoy our yard.

Finn found the books!

Ainsley found the ball.

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Finn really likes reading these days. He can actually read a few words but mostly likes telling himself stories while he reads.

Then they wanted inside stain so I brought out this activity table. It was a hit.

Ains hamming it up for me.

Then that night Patrick and I had a date night out back with s fire and good quality time.

It was so nice out. Patrick worked hard pulling apart all our diaper boxes to burn.

Here are some shots from memaw and pawpaws house later that week.

Out for a walk on their street.

Finn has had a lot of bad seizures lately. That means violent and or long seizures. Please pray for his health. He's been bouncing back okay but poor guy has had one every other day for over a week now so you can imagine we are just concerned about him. Here he is after one and he just wanted me to hold him until he was asleep. We had the lights low so he could sleep, but you can still see how sweet he is.

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Oops, I did it again!

2011-04-11T14:28:00.001-07:00

No I'm nit Britney Spears, but I do wish I could wear those outfits like she does-and not feel self conscious of my muffin top. But, in an effort to slim my muffin top to a muffie (I realize only bread co lovers like me will get the bad joke), I ran in the stl Go! Relay marathon this weekend. I ran with my sister in law, her sister in law and my brother in law. We had a blast and I'm proud to say our time was pretty good and right about what we thought it would be. Go us!!! I ran the last leg (a little under 6 miles I think), but the hills and heat made me really feel badly for the full marathoners. They were the true champs. Here's a badly lit picture of me once I hobbled my rear home:)

Next up, going to "try" to train for the rock'n'roll marathon this fall.

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Walking, climbing, oh the hoopla

2011-04-06T09:44:00.001-07:00

So Ainsley is our little climber monkey. We always knew she had an adventurous spirit, but it's really starting to shine. She climbs on anything that she can, including her brother's little people car garage. It's pretty funny. Here she's stolen Finn's toy and made sure hd can't get it by crawling to the back if the table.

She also climbs on conventional things like ladders and stairs and sits in her big girl chair from Memaw.

They were all watching some Oso (the unique stuffed bear) yesterday and I just thought it was too cute seeing them all with the same dazed look.

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Oh spring, I do so love you.

2011-04-02T17:10:00.001-07:00

Since it was so nice out today. We went to Queeny Park. This park holds a lot of memories for both me and Patrick and we hope the kids form some of their own.

Ainsley liked the Playsets and slides. She also attempted to eat the pebbles a few times but quickly realized they tasted nasty- like kids sweaty feet, so she stopped.

Notice the drool, she's getting her molars and is very St. Bernard like with the amount of drool that makes it to her outfits.

We then had a picnic dinner. Patrick isn't depressed-just really tired. We thought this was a park where Finn couldn't run into the street. But he found the stairs to the parking lot and made patrick chase him around that for a while. Ainsley's doing a good impression though, huh?

Finn enjoying his milk, and me happy that we were able to get out if the house. Plus I love picnics! Esp early in the season when there aren't all sorts of bugs ruining the meal.

Here's to hoping Spring sticks around this time.

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Winter #2 I don't like you.

2011-03-26T13:13:00.001-07:00

So in true weekend spirit we too the kids up to the transpiration museum this morning. Yes, in this freezing weather-to our credit it wasn't snowing yet. My amazibg sister-in-law told me about this exhibit there earlier in the week. She always knows about the cool things in town-and she knows what her nephew will love!!! The museum had 3 life size replicas of the "cars" cars. Mater, lightning McQueen and the new car. And if you know our family we watch the movie on average 4 times a week. It's practically the only movie Finn will watch and Ainsley likes it too.

Well, the new movie coming out soon has a new car called Fin McDisel-yes, a car named after Finn. He would totally freak if he understood they shared a moniker. So we had to go see them. They are in STL until Monday-check it out.

Anywho, my fingers froze and Finn was playing my iPhone so I didn't get any pictures except this one of Ainsley as the pink stayed puft marshmallow. The cold really wiped her out (and let it be said-it's really nice to be able to allow her to sleep in the car).

Fun weekend start

2011-03-26T07:31:00.001-07:00

So of course on the last day before this disgusting snow it was 75* and perfect for going to the zoo. And sometimes in the Murphy household we get a twinge of bad luck-we were going to pack up and go enjoy the beautiful weather when Finn had a seizure, and then I tried to inflate the stroller tires and actually deflated them more. So, change of plans-we made lemonade out of our lemons.

We ended up getting in the car once finn had had a rest and drove to get Starbucks for me and then headed out to Lone Elk Park. It's a great park not too far from us where you can drive through and see all kinds if animals. We saw bison-finn thought they were cows. But they really were huge.

And with the beautiful weather we had all the windows open and finn and Ainsley got to hear the birds too.

And my awesome father-in-law came over while we were out and inflated my stroller tires so I could get the kids out later. Have I mentioned he's awesome!

Then thurs it was freezing again so we went to memaw and pawpaw's house. The kids had a blast playing and running around-Ainsley fell asleep on the way home and Finn was pooped too.

Saturday morning coffee and the paper with daddy.

She loves to jabber at him:) so cute. I found her doing this in the bathroom the other day too and she looked shocked that I was listening in. I guess it was a private daddy daughter talk.

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2011-03-22T15:24:00.001-07:00

Here are some of the pics and stories you've been waiting for.

Ainsley before she was walking.

Finn playing with the seven dwarfs.

And what started my lack of posting. Yes another ER visit in December-bc of a bad, bad seizure. It seems like so long ago-and thankfully all ended up okay.

He's a champ. Truly.

Here we are having a better day of fun building a fort on the couch.

Cheeses at lunch.

Some wild bed head.

And a home-done hair cut. He looks so innocent here that I couldn't resist the pic.

Ains and uncle dan and daddy.

She started walking this winter-and is close to power walking now.

She liked fort time with Finn too. She's become a real climber. Not sure if I'm a fan of this or not bc I'm constantly having to remind her to sit down or be careful. I'm a worrisome mother without her standing in a chair while it's tipping over.

She also likes to sit in boxes like every other 1year old. No matter if there are toys filled to the brim-There's still room for Ainsley.

She's also getting a lot of teeth. Judge me if you must-yes those are playdoh scissors in her mouth.

She finally has enough hair to do "little piglet tails". And yes she's playing with a plastic gas pump-she may have an odd affinity for toys.

We've made many a coffee runs this winter to get out of the house and keep me sane:)

Many good naps.

And like big brother she gets wicked bed head too.

Finn started preschool and he is doing well. It's a long morning 4 days a week, but he seems to be liking it so far-since they pretty much let him play all day! I wish I could have appreciated preschool when I was that young. How I miss messy play without having to do the cleaning up myself.

He's already learning to spell. Not really sure if I should worry about the curriculum though? Hmm. Haha.

We've also been enjoying spring break. We've been out to the park a few times. And the kids love book time.

We've had some great lunch discussions. Finn seems mildly interested in today's topic.

Ainsley has her momma's Irish temper and seemed to get a bit heated with me when I brought up the discussion of potty training. Man this little bit really lays down the law.

Hope you enjoyed the pics and the long/quick catch up. More to come-now that my lazy app is working.

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Location:A long winter. Thank goodness for spring.

2011-03-22T14:47:00.001-07:00

This post is the result of 30 minutes trying to post off my phone. There ate too many darn cute pics on here I want to share and I refuse to give up on the ease of posting while I play with the kids.

Finn is stunned that I'm still attempting to post.

Ainsley is sharing kissed with her baby and bear bear.

And running around joyously (sp?)

Big 3 and first day of school

2011-03-15T07:57:00.001-07:00

So, I want to make sure I document this wonderful day. Finn is 3 years old today. I can hardly believe that much time has gone by so quickly. It seems like only a week ago he was born, and then yesterday that he started walking.....how has this day crept up on me?

Well, to mark his monumental 3rd birthday we also get to celebrate his FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL. I'm writing this while he's at school this morning, and I admit that I'm anxious to hear how he did and to hopefully see his smiling face when I go pick him up (and not his crying face). One of his teachers Miss Katie (not me pretending to be a teacher, but his actual teacher) put up a huge HAPPY BIRTHDAY sign for him when she heard it was his birthday....how awesome.

He's gotten so smart and sharp these past couple of months. He's saying a few phrases like "what's that" and "where'd it go", it's great.....and his eye contact is so much more on target, he loves to say "hi" when he's snuggling which I think is code for "I love you" but it's quicker to say......but after he says it he always leans in for a kiss on the side of his head. He knows all his letters and can make them out of things (like building blocks and bendaroos), he knows most colors and can count numbers up to 20 and back down to zero. I think his favorite colors are blue and green, and his favorite number to say is "eight", and he really likes the letters H, V, Z, T and is learning to like F.

So if I get a chance after the kids go down for their naps I'll post again, but if not, I'll post about his second day tomorrow. Thanks for all your loving prayers for our BIG boy starting school and hitting his milestones:)
by the way his backpack is a dog, by skip hop. I think it's super cute, it has a matching lunch box, that we filled with sugar-free jello for him to have at snack time today:)

And here's a shot of our MISS CUTIE PATOOTIE.....she's happy she gets all the toys in the house to herself. I have a feeling she shot straight for Finn's beloved cars as soon as we walked out the door this morning.

We're All Okay

2011-03-09T07:34:00.000-08:00

so i know it's been super long, like 3 months, since i've blogged. but something is totally screwed up on my phone and it won't let me blog. and because my phone is messed up i can't download all the awesome pics of the kids to write cute stories about. still working on it, but things have been crazy busy.

Big things to note:

Finn starts Pre-School Tuesday......ahhh, i'm so excited for him (i think he's going to love it) and so melancholy bc my baby is growing up.

Ainsley has been walking since Feb 1st, and is almost running and wanting to do stairs by herself (she's my independent child for sure-but she's definitely a momma's girl) she's starting to talk too, so exciting.

i'll keep working on the phone to see if i can get some pics up here for you all. later.

Secret language

2010-12-02T15:11:00.001-08:00

Finn has started talking more. But there are times when I know he's saying something profound, but in his own language which we can't understand one bit but lovingly call "Finnish". Today we were all having some family cuddle time on the couch and Finn very clearly said "bajom bajom ping ping". He looked at Patrick like "don't you agree dad" and we both just laughed. We will have to ask him to explain that one in a year or two. I'm pretty sure it was some witty comment on the current economic status of the United States-which he is following along with me on in the morning and evening news reports. (I think he watches with me bc he secretly lives for the weather and traffic reports). I just love his little gibberish conversations lately-with cars and with us.

Loot

2010-12-01T15:24:00.001-08:00

Earlier this spring my grandmother, Imogene Crist, gave me all of her china, crystal, and silver. Everyone else in the family already had their own set do I was lucky to get the whole set. Below is a picture of it all. I was so exited to use some of it at thanksgiving with my side of the family (bc my kids were in high chairs out of breaking reach).

Crystal glasses and champagne glasses.

Everything has the initial C for Crist. So cute to me.

Only one basic one broke. Good odds.

And heres a cute pic for good measure.

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Fun lunch pics

2010-11-30T12:28:00.001-08:00

Ainsley looks like a vampire but I assure you it's just raspberry flavored blood. I mean food.

Chaaaaa.

Eeeeze.

Getting ready for Christmas

2010-11-30T12:25:00.001-08:00

Christmas is one of my favorite holidays. We don't have much accumulated yet as far as decorations. But I plan to add something each year to spruce up the holidays. Here are the cheap red bows I got 1/2 off. Hope the last through Christmas. We'll see.

This is our tree. We got it last year and yes it's prelit. I'm not that good with lights. I live that 1/2 the ornaments are mine and Patrick's from when we were kids and the others are ones we've gotten since we were married. (and yes all the presents are wrapped. That's always my goal by dec 1st-the big present is Ainsley's birthday present)

Here's my early Christmas present from Patrick. It's a cabinet we bought from a friend. I love it! And bc I was scared it would fall on the kids-Patrick drilled through the back of it into the wall-it's not going anywhere now.

My little helper.

Finn helped me do the advent paper chain story this morning. He only did 3 of the staples but loved the final project. Merry Christmas!!!!

Happy thanksgiving

2010-11-25T14:31:00.001-08:00

First off let me say there are so many things I'm thankful for this year, including the crazy stl weather. Snow on Thanksgiving!

I'm thankful that God gave his only son so that me and my family could be redeemed. Having a son makes that sacrifice so much more real for me to understand. I'm thankful for my family and that we all live in stl so we can share holidays together. I'm happy I am married to such a wonderful man. I'm thankful for happy kids. I'm thankful that with meds and diet Finn is relatively healthy-no matter how much work it is. I'm thankful for all of my friends and how much they mean to me. Really I'm just very thankful this year!!! I understand more about the peril that I've been spared from, by God's grace, this past year and I'm so very thankful.

Here is Ainsley yesterday while we prepared for Thanksgiving at our house.

This morning I took Finn to kaldis for coffee since Patrick is so wonderful and cooks ALL the food for Thanksgiving. (yes, he does it all except dessert and one side-the entire meal-and it was delicious!) I thought it was colder outside so finn is in the biggest puffiest coat ever.

He quite reasonably got too hot in kaldis in the coat so we took it off and since I was holding two coffees I couldn't wiggle him back in his coat. so this is what I managed. He held onto his train the whole time though. ( and yes we were both in our jammies)

Ainsley all dressed up for lunch with the fam.

Crawling after cousins.

Happy Thanksgiving.

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Big girl

2010-11-25T14:02:00.001-08:00

Ainsley was slobbering all over the mirror today. She found a cute friend to smile at.

Mmmm. And a chewy friend.

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Phones

2010-11-23T13:04:00.001-08:00

Finn did one of the cutest things yesterday. He picked up this purple play phone, held it to his ear and clearly said "yes, oh yeass". Funny, I guess that's what I always say when we play phone. Blurry pic but he was walking and talking. Super cute.

He also told me how he spells his name (looking at it on the wall) and kept looking at his shirt telling me it was "or-age". Oh my little talking man. Yay!

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All DRESSed up

2010-11-20T19:46:00.001-08:00

Ainsley all cozied up in a winter dress today (Patrick dressed her!)

Dancing around.

Sorry for the blur, girl moves a lot. She was all smiles.

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Catch up pics

2010-11-19T11:27:00.001-08:00

I feel like I need to apologize for the grainy quality of the photos bc most of my friends always have these great pics posted-but I'm kidding no one. these pics are actually pretty good for my artistic ability. If it were about calculus I'm all about it but composing a pic is not one of my strengths-to my benefit I think my kids are pretty cute and make up for what I lack:)

Naked/diaper thursday evenings have become my favorite. Yes that's cars behind finn-our favorite movie.

Cheese. Chaa

Eeze.

Ainsley loves stuffed animals.

Finn and his "crucks"- truck/cars.

Trying to keep them away from baby sis.

Sleeping beauties.

She actually looked up from her book and yelled at finn.

Then gave me a huge grin like she was taking care of things.

Shes finally letting me put bows on her nonexistent hair.

Finn has really taken up coloring lately and he lives the color green. Can you tell. He calls it "reen".

Finn was my little sou chef.

We baked cookies (that I ate bc he can't. But he didn't seem to mind. He just liked the mixing)

Practicing his baking skills.

Ready to go out.

All tuckered out.

And these are way old but my friends visited me way back when for the half marathon. We did so many fun things. Including the brewery tour and the zoo.

Nita's husband Andy. He was a trouper for hanging out with us girls. But I think he had a good time.

Nita.

Jane.

We actually saw the cheetas.

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catch up.....

2010-11-19T06:14:00.001-08:00

so my iphone, which i love, is acting up and won't let me update the blog right now (and hence, the month long absence) i'm a person of convenience...have you noticed. anyway, it's been over a month and lots has happened. the kids have grown and we've been busy. here are some pics i have on the computer of the kids at halloween.....(the others will come later bc they are all on my phone:) i hate uploading on the computer bc the pics never go in the order i want and i can't move them easily....rrrrrr.

patrick was a mailman, and i was the dog chasing him:) later he had an awesome fake moustache and i had an eye patch and nose....but this was before we got to the party.

spider man ready to fight crime. he actually liked being dressed up and kept the mask on for about a half hour. i thought that was impressive for 2 1/2. his spider man voice was the best, it was just really loud breathing with his mouth half open. super cute.

this picture was part of the meltdown series but of course i couldn't get it to move and after yelling at the computer for 20 minutes it's just going to stay here......rrrrrrr.

Daddy being silly while finney hamms it up for the camera. I love his "cheese" smile. a happy spider man.

we were headed into meltdown mode..... this goes with the pic from above.

our beautiful monarch butterfly. couldn't be cuter!!! (she looks so much like her daddy) and ps. she's pulling up and crusing all over the place...crazy. i guess she'll be walking in no time. i'll keep you posted.

Run Murphy, Run

2010-10-03T13:21:00.001-07:00

Well, I did it.

Ran all 13.1 miles. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't proud, but I have to praise God for keeping me healthy and encouraged along the way. I definitely called on Him many times during the run.

I have a new found respect for serious runners, and a twinge of jealousy for how easy they make it look. I'm sure I wasn't the worst out there but I did my fair share of flailing.

My cut foot only hurt me once and it wasn't until mile 10 and it only lasted 1/2 mile. So thanks for those extra prayers.

A special thanks to my friends: Andy, Nita, and Jane for being my cheerleaders all along the trail. And for getting up at the crack of dawn for no sane reason (kids being the only sane excuse for that) and for braving the cold to keep me motivated. I loved having you guys here this weekend and you were such encouragement to me. Thanks!

And also very special thanks to my wonderful husband Patrick, who not only helped me train, but was Superdad bringing the kids down to watch me finish. You were so great and selfless this entire weekend and were such a great encourager to me. I love you, and am so glad I have you by my side to share all of this with.
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Extra prayer needed

2010-10-02T05:38:00.001-07:00

Okay, so I didn't tell many people I was running in the Lewis and Clark half marathon this weekend. Mostly because I didn't want to have to tell everyone I chickened out. But, I've made it through all the training and I'm ready-but now I need prayer.

With a random turn of events I sliced the pad of my left foot open last night, and now I have to run 13.1 miles on it. Probably not the smartest thing to do 2 days before the race, but Finn dropped a glass last night and I rushed to move him away from it and accidentally kicked a really jagged piece that just sliced it. It isn't that bad, about 1/2 inch long and not super deep. But I plan on just bandaging it up and running through any pain, so please pray for me tomorrow-that I finish and it isn't as painful overall as I'm expecting it to be. Thanks.

I hate rabbits today

2010-10-01T06:22:00.001-07:00

So earlier this fall, really it was probably late summer, I got up the energy to plant some flowers out front. You may remember the post about Patrick really doing the hard stuff. Well, here is one of the still alive and producing plants. I love "wild" roses. The other plants are all in an array of living stump to just leaves-stupid rabbits. I hate the rabbits in Kirkwood. They are everywhere and eat everything. They even ate my iris earlier this summer. Patrick went and got some rabbit repellant-but I fear we waited to long and my hostas won't recover from their nub-like state until the spring. But I'm nit seeing any new damage so I guess it's a start.

These are double knockdown rose bushes.

-
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We love Claire

2010-10-01T06:02:00.001-07:00

Our sweet friends let their daughter Claire come over the other night. Ainsley has found a new role model. Ainsley just watched and followed her around all night it was super cute to witness the girl bonding. She tried yo mimic everything Claire did Finn was somewhat oblivious, but enjoyed having two girls in his room to say goodnight to. (Katy and Jeremy-your sweet girl is welcome here anytime!!!)

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Eating fun

2010-09-29T18:14:00.001-07:00

Ainsley has discovered the fun of plastic food along with Finn. I hope these buns don't go straight to her thighs.

And a pic of finn for fun!

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Fun Times

2010-09-29T18:11:00.001-07:00

We went to the Kirkwood greentree parade with the Murphy's. Cary and Andy and their sweet kids Winnie and Rush. Winnie, Finn, and Ainsley watched the horses come down the street.

Winnie kept trying to be sweet to finn and he just pushed her away-typical boy. We will be working on that. On our way to the parade we found a turtle in the road-the kids were very curious. But I don't have a pic of him so here are the kids semi smiling.

-fun with bowls as hats.

A real hat.

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Working hard

2010-09-14T14:14:00.001-07:00

Little man hard at work organizing my toiletries.

I said "Finney give me a smile, say cheese" and he did!

What a grin.

He wanted to see himself.

"cheese". I love this little man!

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DC day 3

2010-09-12T15:17:00.001-07:00

We finally got to sleep in. Really sleep in-until 8:45 it was great. We woke up and it was raining so we decided just to head to the airport after we packed. And good thing we did. We left the hotel close to 10am and didn't get to the airport until 11:30am. The yellow line was either really delayed or not running at the station we tried to pick it up.

But it all worked out fine. (we still love the Metro) We got to the airport early-the way we like to travel. And we had enough time to get a good blue cheese burger and a bud light before the flight.

The flight was on time and we were enjoying lunch so much we almost missed the boarding. But made it home okay.

We had such a great time!!!! Best trip so far as a married couple (better than our honeymoon kind of). But, either way this trip would not have been possible without the major help of our parents. We want to make sure we thank them better than a PBS tag line. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you. They are the best grandparents ever (we will fight you if you try to contest this fact) and really love us well. We love you back times ten! Thanks again!!!

Here are some shots of the kids for fun.

Watching Mickey with daddy.

5 minutes later he was so comfy he couldn't help himself. (Patrick loves Mickey can't you tell).

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DC day 2

2010-09-12T09:46:00.001-07:00

We thought we'd sleep in without the kids but of course our internal clocks woke us up at 7:45 et.(which technically is sleeping in for us, sad but true). So we just got up and headed to Georgetown.

We got coffee at GW hospital and headed to meet patrick's college roommate John. (he's a reporter for the 700 club so he may look familiar to some of you and he's super nice-no wonder Patrick has so many great stories/memories about him!) mow I have some too.

We then went to Georgetown Cupcakes (from TLC's show DC cupcakes) so cool!

The line was out the door and down the street. But they were totally worth it. They were like little works of art that tasted delicious!

They even handed out menus while we waited.

I was very excited to be there.

Patrick got salted caramel and I got key lime.

Then the three of us went to Washington Harbor for lunch. We went to this great restaurant called Sequoia. It was delicious and we got to sit right on the water with a gorgeous view.

Then we took a stroll to work up another appetite for cupcakes from baked and wired. (I forgot to take a pic. But we all had red velvet ones and they were great too) by this time I was stuffed and we headed back to the hotel to run and shower before the wedding. We had so much fun with John (thank you for sharing Georgetown with us)

We got a nice run in and showered. Then we went to get a cab over to the wedding.

Doesn't Patrick clean up well?! We didn't realize that there was a jazz festival going on so it took a while for the cab to come

(I seriously had the hottest date)

and our driver didn't know where the brookside gardens were. Thank goodness for smart phones. Patrick and I both whipped them out and started telling the cab driver where to go. We got there as the wedding should have been starting, but as anyone knows they never start on time so we were golden. The wedding was like a scene from a movie.

We came over the hill to this beautiful scene and very peaceful music being played. It was pretty cool. And I have to say that the weather really couldn't have been better. It was warm in the sun and just perfect in the shade.

Joe waiting for his bride.

Shilpa with her parents.

Shilpa and her sister Anjali are two super beautiful women I was trying to capture them smiling at each other but this is what I got.

Don't they look so happy?!

This is Ujala our friends Tarak and Sharvari's daughter. Isn't she the cutest.

She and our other friends Vin and Mitva's son Deven (who I somehow don't have a pic of kept me entertained most of the night.

What sweet kids. I hope Finn and Ainsley get to meet them soon.

We had a blast at the reception and danced our hearts out. Then Vin, Patrick, Tarak, Sharvari and I went to a cute townie bar named the Stained Glass Bar. We had a cheese pizza that rivaled Pizza Rustica in Miami (yes a phi girls it was that good)

Then we headed back to crash at the hotel-overall great wedding day for Shilpa and Joe, great weather and great celebration.
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DC day one

2010-09-11T05:53:00.001-07:00

We went for a nice 45 min run as soon as we got to the hotel. There is this great Sligo creek trail that's super close.

The we took the metro down to the art museum where George Lucas and Steven Spielberg had their private collections of Norman Rockwell paintings. We saw a segment on it on Sunday Morning a while back and we were super impressed. It was really neat.

Then we went to Ford's theater, where Lincoln was shot. It was really neat.
The president's box.

Patrick enjoying himself.

Me very excited-Patrick and I have a slight obsession with Lincoln history (slight being an understatement).

Then we walked to the mall-smithsonian mall. And went through the museum of natural history and the smithsonian institute. And walked by congress.

Then we went to the holocaust museum which was very interesting but depressing at the same time. It was a special exhibit about hitler and the Nazi propaganda-I knew hitler was messed up but wow, I now know how much more twisted he was than before.

Then we had the reversal dinner which was super fun. We hung out with everyone until late and then I thought I was going to go to bed, but Patrick and I just changed and went walking around. All the bars were closed so we just walked and then went to bed.
The discovery channel building was super close not sure if this is where that crazy guy was last week.

The kids were good for Bob and Lolly.

Her shirt says "ididapoo" like the iditerod.

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Do you know me?

2010-09-10T04:25:00.001-07:00

Okay three funny things already this morning and it's only 6:15 am. First we got on the shuttle with Cindy Pressler the meteorologist from channel 5 this morning. I thought,man that lady looks like Cindy, and then the driver asked her when the rain was going to stop and I knew for sure-so funny.

Then, the security guy at the security check point thought he knew me so he was super nice, I just smiled and played along bc I really have no idea who he was.

Then
As we are going through security I got patted down bc I'm wearing a sweatshirt but that's not the funny part. The guy checking bags says "hey hold up send her back here" and I thought okay what did I leave in my bag? He goes that's my kids doctor. I thought who? He goes "oh wait, are you a doctor? You look just like my kids doctor" and then the lady who patted me down says "I saw her the other day, yeah she does look like that doctor". I just smiled and thanked them for what I took as a compliment. I'm hoping their doctor isn't ugly. Haha.

Dr. Murphy signing off. Oh, I mean the other Dr. Murphy.

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Vacation and smiles

2010-09-09T18:48:00.001-07:00

So Patrick and I are headed out for our first vacation without kids. I'm gonna miss this smiling girl!

She has the best red hair and dimples.

And I'm really gonna miss this guy. He had a seizure this evening and this is Patrick holding him while he recovers. Please pray for his health while we are gone this weekend.

Love those kids. Some old pics for fun.

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Welcome to Kirkwood

2010-09-09T18:39:00.001-07:00

We had a welcome to Kirkwood party at our house Tuesday. Mainly for a few of our friends that we wanted to introduce to each other and also because we really wanted to have a fun party. We didn't exclude anyone on purpose but also didn't want the party to get too big that people couldn't mingle well. I think we pulled it off. We hope to do it again next year-we are accepting bribes to be invited next year. Hehe.

Here are some pics if the house before the party started. Notice Patrick working hard in the reflection.

Our living room dressed up nicely.

The kids slept upstairs through the whole thing. Yay to good sleepers. Here they are at sams with us shopping for food.

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Before and after

2010-09-08T06:05:00.001-07:00

So this week Patrick is on vacation here at home which means we get a lot done around the house (well he does at least). This was our front yard project that I wanted to do by myself, but 2 hours into it and about 5 blisters later I found out God did not make me for manual labor, but Patrick was. He's my big burly, strong husband man! He came out and finished the entire project in under 2 hours (let me tell you it would have taken me at least twice that). But he noticed I was struggling and knew how important it was to me -so thank you honey.

Sorry the pics are dark it was super shady that time of day.

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The orange line is where I needed to dig up all the grass and the plants are just sitting where I wanted to plant them.

Finished. Didn't he do a great job?! There will be more plants added in the spring. I can't wait.

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Back in the saddle

2010-09-05T07:53:00.001-07:00

Literally.

After some encouragement from Patrick I decided to get back to one of my favorite things in the world. Horseback riding.

I decided to return to Baskin Farms-the stable I first started riding at when I was 9 years old. It was amazing to see how much had changed but also how much was still the same. The memories of my childhood and teenage years came flooding back-suddenly I was 16 and care free again. It was great. However, I had a 10 mile run the day after (training for the 1/2 marathon) and realized that my body is that of a 28 year old mother of 2 and not a sprite 17 year old with the recovery time half as long. So, needless to say I'm a bit saddlesore, but loving it all the same.

This was the school horse I rode. His name was Rylee- he was a gentle giant:)

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Oh and my favorite part besides the smell of the barn (which I really do love) is how dirty your fingernails get in less than 5 min. That's when you know you're gonna have fun!

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Peekaboo

2010-09-02T16:59:00.001-07:00

Finn wanted to play peekaboo in our bathroom the other day. I realize the picture quality is horrible. But his little smiles were too precious not to share. Ps he had his bear bear playing too. Love it!

He'd find me and then run away giggling.

He was hiding his face in the corner and then giggling.

So much fun! Ainsley now has the cutesy flower bow ever. I know it's almost bigger than her but was too cute to pass up.

Finn played "gotcha" with me today where he hides behind the couch and grabs my hand screaming and chuckling.

Ainsley got a much needed bath.

She was super duper happy to be clean.

And I shaved finn's head again. Still to hot for him to grow his gorgeous locks. Maybe we will let him grow it out this winter. What a stoic face. This kid should be an interrogator with this stare.

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Little steps

2010-08-18T09:47:00.001-07:00

Finn is taking small steps forward. Literally. We had him at the mall this past weekend. Like every weekend this summer bc of the stinking heat. Well, Patrick took finn to the kids book section like usual and finn stepped up on the reading platform all by himself! I was so excited when Patrick told me that I actually almost cried -it's a step forward for all of his therapy work. Yay.

He also climbed into his car all by himself this weekend too. Awesome! He started OT today and we are hoping for some more small improvements as time goes on.

I took him to Frontenac to practice walking and work on endurance and he seemed very happy to push Ainsley around. He did well, and made it almost two times around until he had a small seizure- but he caught himself and was okay afterwards.

Ainsley playing that afternoon. Such a good girl. Thus may be the only picture of her not smiling. But it's because she was saying mama when I took it.

Finn lining up pegs in a line instead of the normal cluster. I'm so proud.

We go to see the neurologist today for Finn's 6mo check up so please pray for a good report and I will post later with the results.

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Adventures in grocery shopping

2010-08-05T14:10:00.000-07:00

So it's been about a hundred degrees outside here and me and the kids are getting tired of looking at each other and playing inside all day (and I'm too nervous to venture out and fight the crowds of moms and kids at the indoor attractions by myself). So, I decided I was going to be brave and try to take both kids to the grocery store by myself.

Sure I know this sounds like an every day occurrence for some families but for ours it has a twist of difficulty. Ainsley just started sitting up and us a champ so I figured we could just get a double seat cart (which Schnucks has thankfully). But that isn't the difficult part. Getting from the car to the store is. See finn is walking but not great yet and not totally on his own through parking lots. So somehow I maneuvered both kids out of the car and into the store without any melt downs in the parking lot and no seizures from this awful heat.

We not only found a cart with a cool car (which had to be designed by a mom bc it had seat belts and a closed floor so the kids feet wouldn't get caught under the cart if I was going too fast). But we found a double seat/double car. It was my dream. This way if finn had a seizure I could just put him in the cart part next to Ainsley. I was almost worry free. And finn loved "driving". Ainsley sat smiling at everyone like normal. Have I mentioned that she really is the happiest baby in the entire world. I know we are so lucky!

Anywho. Enjoy the pics. And note the double seat car and basket.

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The bachelorette

2010-08-03T19:18:00.001-07:00

Oh yes. I watched and giggled. Ali and Roberto are so cute together. (I'm a huge fan of the bachelor/bachelorette show on abc.) I'm on a slight diet to increase my running strength and here's what I munched on during the show. I just thought it was a funny combination. Yes it's a chocolate snack pack.

Ps. The wine is from my girls weekend. It's a sweet red and super yummy. It's called black dog.

It's not all about me

2010-08-02T09:43:00.001-07:00

So two weekends ago I got out of town for 48 hours all by myself-well and with my 4 best friends from college. We try to meet up every year and since no one was getting married thus year we met in Madison, IN. We are all in different states so it was a common meeting place. (from Chicago, Nashville, Cincinnati, Indianapolis and STL)
This was the lovely sign at the local gas station. I just thought it was funny. We stayed in a cute little condo right by the river. It gave us great access to the cute town and all wineries close by. We had such a relaxing weekend and great girl time.

The town fountain at the farmers market.

4 of us at the winery for dinner. Thank you Mandy for taking the pic. (me, Jane, Lindsay, Nita)

When I got home Patrick and Ainsley were happy to see me. Finn ran over to me and gave me a hug and kiss. It was the best mommy moment!

Then Patrick bought me some keens that I've been wanting. Yay. I love them.

Ainsley has found her love for dolls. My old cabbage patch dolls from when I was a kid.

Then last sat Patrick surprised me with flowers and a date night. I thought we were just going to make dinner at home and he secretly got babysitters for the kids (thanks bob and Lolly) and we walked down to pi(the pizzeria close to our house) and then to oberweis for dessert. It started to storm on our way back but it was so much fun. Thank you Patrick for being such a thoughtful husband, I loved our date.

Ainsley and me hanging out until daddy got home.

Big smiles.

Finn is now no longer taking a passy. I broke him of it cold turkey last wed. It was hard to hear him cry out for it but after one nap and one bedtime he was good without it. Yay. Let's hope potty training is that easy (I know I'm dreaming;)

Finn has really gotten a hold of his motor skills these past couple if weeks. He got all if these pegs in by himself. I was so proud.

Two of my favorite things. Ainsley and chocolate ice cream-don't worry it was fake ice cream kids.

The spiderman kiss. Baby style. Finn really does love his little sister. And Ainsley adores him. She's always smiling at him.

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Curious and cute

2010-07-16T08:51:00.000-07:00

Our good friend Joey was good enough to put in a safety fence in our backyard so finn can run around this fall with out doing a Geronimo off our retaining wall.

Finn was very curious about how the process went. He kept an eye on them all day. The fence looks and works great.

We had a messy playtime at home. Shaving cream and food coloring (we copied from Missy). Finn thought it was really fun and got it everywhere. It also stained his hands and legs fir the night. Well worth it v

How sweet are these two? I love that I was able to get finn to put his arm around Ainsley. And I love that they have their matching bears.

Then Finn went in for the passy steal even though he already has his.

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Happy 4th of July

2010-07-12T15:22:00.001-07:00

Delaney, Ainsley, and Kiera.

Look at those big blue eyes. Who did she get those from? We don't know either.

Ainsley passed out from the heat. This is her on the video monitor.

Finn and his new kitchen from our awesome neighbors!

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Busy Week/Month

2010-06-30T05:39:00.000-07:00

Okay so this is what we've been up to for the past three weeks. We watched cousin Liam last week so Patrick and his brother could have a man date buying groceries.

Then we went to great grandpa Bennett.

It was great grandma Bennett's birthday and Patrick's. They were born on the same day.

Then we went to Shakespeare in the park. It was a lot of fun.

Dan and Mel went with us. Nice faces guys.

Awesome!!!

Finn finding his name on his chair.

Him trying to fit in ainsley's

I've been cooking healthier-this is caesar chicken pasta. A friend's recipe.

More bread-ya carbs.

Brennan(our friend) and Ainsley.

Finn jumping on the blow up mattress.

He kept sneaking in there to jump on it.

Ainsley us getting really strong.

Finn asleep in the car after our fun filled week/month.

Family photo!!!

Finn enjoying the magic house. Before his seizure:(boo

Cutie pie. The now barely stays in her non-existent hair.

Playing with her new toy-thank you Hodge family.

Ainsley's new hat-thank you mema Vicki.

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Day of swimming and baking

2010-06-18T11:11:00.001-07:00

Finn had a swim lesson/pool physical therapy yesterday. Here he is after we were done. He was all suited up in lighting mcqueen swim shirt and trunks (thanks mema and pawpaw). Finn loved the water. He was a swimming fool. Although he did try to drink the chlorinated water on many occassions. His favorite was a tie between the noodle and naming the depth numbers on the side of the pool (2 & 3).

Then I came home and got adventurous with cooking. My friend Missy-who is by the way a Great cook-led a short session on baking bread Wednesday. So I thought I'd try it out. She made it look so easy and delicious. Plus patrick's 29th (35th) birthday is saturday so I thought it would be nice to bake some goodies. So below are sone homemade oatmeal cookies that have chocolate chips, walnuts, and crazins and raisins. Yum!!!

They turned out delicious!!!!!

Then I made some bread from scratch. Totally ambitious, since I've never done thus before. But Missy made it look manageable and yummy.

Here's the dough mixed up in to a shaggy ball.

Then after I kneeded it a little.

Right before baking.

Fresh, hot out of the oven. And let me tell you it tasted great and was probably even better bc I made it myself and knew what live went into making it. Patrick came home and had a warm slice with butter and just smiled. It made me feel so good that I accomplished something domestic that I thought I'd never do-make bread from scratch. I plan to make another loaf tomorrow for Shakespeare in the park!

And I had to throw in a pic of Ainsley-eating blueberries-her favorite. Look at those red eyebrows.

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Happy Memorial Day

2010-05-31T13:59:00.000-07:00

Finn likes riding his little car.

He can now get on and off all by himself. What a big boy.

Oh and he's singing to himself in gibberish.

Ainsley missed her morning nap to go to brunch at a friends' house. She pooped out in the car on the way home.

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Dance time

2010-05-29T09:31:00.001-07:00

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On a roll

2010-05-27T15:06:00.001-07:00

So Ainsley is mobile. She rolled over completely by herself this morning during her and Finn's toon time. Patrick was upstairs sleeping in and I was screaming with delight (he said he heard me cheering her on). I am so proud of her and she's delighted with herself. She just giggles when she's doing it. I don't have any pics of it today I was just enjoying it too much. I'll try to get some tomorrow.

But I also thought you'd all like to know the real Charlie Brown is back in town. (and he likes Mizzou apparently) I shaved his head bc he was getting to hot in the stl heat and his helmet.

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Playdate

2010-05-27T06:24:00.000-07:00

Finn, Ainsley and I went to our new friends' house yesterday. Anne, Peter and Molly are our new friends. Peter is almost exactly Finn's age and he has epilepsy too. Molly is 4 and peter's older sister and I'm bummed bc I didn't get any cute pictures of her. She was so good sharing with the boys and letting me and Anne talk. Anne and I met through mutual friends and is a part of a little group of 4 moms o know that have kids with epilepsy- they are great support for me and Finn.

Here are Peter and Finn playing legos together (beside eachother really not together:)

And later Finn kept wanting to press the barnyard music on their fridge and dance. Peter saw what fun Finn was having and the two of them broke it down in the kitchen with their own version of a dance club. It was super cute- Finn just did the white man bounce and Peter broke out the good stuff and spun around real fast:). I have video but don't know how to load it, but let me assure you it is super cute!

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Little theif

2010-05-26T07:05:00.001-07:00

Finn ganked ainsley's new sophie giraffe.

He saw me taking a pic and quickly got up and started running off so he could keep it:).

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Kicking and screaming

2010-05-25T16:20:00.001-07:00

Ainsley is learning to roll over- even if she keeps getting stuck. She hasn't quite figured out the upper body part yet but I think it will only be a day or two. She just grows so fast.

She got tuckered out and mildly fell asleep in "half roll".

What a sweetie pie.

Finn the proceeded to get my attention by first saying "lo" into the Elmo remote and then into my old pink razor. Then he threw a few DVDs down the steps-oh my big boy, he's a two year old what can I say?!

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Bittersweet

2010-05-24T15:33:00.001-07:00

This weekend started out well. I took finn to a special playgroup for kids with special needs. It was so much fun and the facility was amazing. There was so much for finn to play with. This us just one wall outside with things on it for kids to touch-it was a mini magic house.

Then one of my best friends Jamie had her baby shower. This is me, jamie and our other bestie Crystal.

This is Bennett,Crystal's son touching "baby". (he also got a little boobie action on accident)

Then we went and got this cute little giraffe toy for Ainsley. Her name is Sophie and she's made of natural rubber and is now ainsley's favorite:)

Getting some kisses.

Laying together.

More kisses.

Ainsley has found the wonder of tv. She watches "you baby can read" videos with Finn. I expect she'll be reading in a month or so-jk.

Finn unfortunately had a seizure last night after our hot walk to kaldis-we won't be doing that again in the stl heat-we should have known better. So after an amazing weekend Patrick and I watched the lost finale depressed about finn's seizure.

But he woke up this morning in all his spoon glory and has been an angel all day.

Poor Ainsley was hot on the walk too, but she only woke up twice last night so it helped her get some good rest:) she was all smiles at breakfast.

Overall, pretty good weekend with a little twist of sad reality.

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Talk, Talk, Talk

2010-05-21T06:42:00.001-07:00

Ainsley is such a happy girl lately, but is waking up about every hour at night. I love this smile but have no idea how she's this happy- I'm exhausted. But she is getting much better at tummy time and is so close to rolling over I thought shed do it yesterday for sure.

Finn is practicing his "cheese" smile. He has started imitating more. He says hi, bye, baby-baye, and spoon-poon. He's added 4 new wirds this week He says blueberry- buuue, cheese-teese, hot dog-gog, balloon-boon. So exciting. He says ball so well- making his little lips into an o shape at the end. It's super cute. He's also starting to say please when he signs it saying pessssse. He signs open-pp, please- peese, night night- naa naa, go- gaa, and all done- a gone. I'm so proud of our little guy he's working so hard and it's paying off. (he has about 12 words and 5 signs).

Oh and he tried "helping " me make Ainsley's zucchini yesterday and this is what happened. Half ended up on the floor. Oh well that's the price of getting "help".

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Nurse Julie

2010-05-21T06:23:00.001-07:00

My Big sister Julie started nursing school on Monday and I am so proud of her.

She is in the accelerated program so she'll be done in a year. I know it's a really hard program and I know she'll do great. I think she looks great in her uniform!!!

And I had to throw in a pic of the kids. Yes they are both topless they had baths and were still warm from the water-so they are cooling off watching some toons.

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More peas

2010-05-12T07:06:00.000-07:00

So I started solids with Ainsley. We made peas on Monday and she seemed to like them pretty well. What kid doesn't like sweet peas though?

She's a tad messy but I'm re-learning not to stress over a little mess. She's too cute to stress over:) (and I admit this isn't messy but there have been a few times where I'm covered in peas before it's all said and done)

That night after her first couple of meals of peas she decided to sit some up while playing in the playpen-therefore she had them all in the back of her hair. So Patrick was sweet enough to give his cute daughter a bath. He sang and talked to her and she just cooed back. It was great.

Tues she tried monkey tail. Not the same as peas she decided.

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Mother's day and Ainsley's Baptism

2010-05-09T14:36:00.001-07:00

Ainsley was baptized at church this morning. The whole family made it. It was so nice. Thank you Mom, Dad, Julie (Jonathan), Tim, Michelle, Kiera, Delaney, Dan, Melonnie, Liam, Bob and Lolly!!! Finn was there but after dancing through the music like a rock star he needed to walk the halls a bit. We didn't get any pictures of him but he was cute.

She was such a good girl.

It wore the cute girl out. She fell asleep in the car on the way home.

Me, my mom, and my older sister Julie in my backyard.

My mom and Patrick's mom. What good looking grandmas.

The ladies of the day: Melonnie, Vicki, me, Julie, Lolly.

Patrick's younger brother Dan, Lolly, and Patrick.

Patrick and Liam getting some grub.

Dan, Liam, and Mel playing in our backyard. Thanks for mowing Liam.

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Ginoemous mega post

2010-05-08T18:21:00.001-07:00

Ainsley trying out her terminator poses.

I'll be back.

Last weekend we saw a complete rainbow. I've never before seen a whole one. Very cool to see God's promise so well.
Left.

Middle.

Right.

Finn's new favorite toy. Playdoh. From aunt Julie for his birthday.

Patrick and I got a date night ( first one in a month or so) and we went to Time for Dinner and made meals together it was super fun!

The kiddos eating-I should mention this is Ainsley's first meal of rice cereal. She did well and seemed to like it okay. She's now eating 3meals per day and we will be staring green food Monday if I get a chance to make the peas. (yes I make my baby food-I feel like it's healthier and it's pretty simple. I did it for Finn and really enjoyed making meals for him fresh)

My big girl eater. My aunt made her cute bib!

Finn checking out something on our walk.

Ainsley on finn's new ricking horse that Papa Bob made. Isn't it awesome!!!?

Ainsley and Finn holding hands. I just thought this was so cute.

It was almost like they were thumb wrestling.

Then I got my hand in on the action. I love the feel of little hands. So gentle.

More playdoh time.

At the zoo with aunt Julie.

At the zoo.

Cute man. Has a runny nose but still kissable I think.

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Happy Earth Day

2010-04-22T18:25:00.001-07:00

So in honor of Earth Day today we planted some flowers. Ainsley went to grandma and grandpa Murphy's for her first night away tonight. (I was a bit sad but it was nice to have time just with Finn-Patrick went to the lake with the guys for guys weekend too). So as soon as Ainsley headed out Finn and I spent some quality time planting.

Here he's admiring the set up.

We had some cute little pots that had the soil that you just had to add water like those old dinosaur sponge pill things when we were kids. Finn helped add them to water.

And mixed around the soil. He liked getting "dirty". Haha.

Then he spilled one of them on the counter but he helped clean up.

Oooohh he says how neat.

Checking out the dirt on his fingers.

Smiling. Cheese.

Better. Grrrr.

Happy Earth Day from the blue hoodie crew.

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Goofy monkeys

2010-04-21T15:19:00.001-07:00

Our kids take some of the goofiest pictures and I just love them. The pictures and the kids.

Here are Finn and Ainsley getting ready for a walk. Ainsley is sticking her tongue out if you look closely. Finn is eating his sunglasses that he got from his friend Winnie's bday party.

I just love Ainsley's big bright eyes.

And the passy smile with her dimples showing.

She's such a flirt.

Finn is listening to Neil Diamond at the iStore. Rock on little buddy.

Me and Ainsley getting ready for a picture. There she goes with her tongue out again.

That's better. (I feel like a hippie in this pic)

Finn playing peek-a-boo with Papa Bob.

Gotcha. Haha.

Painting. Need I say more.

Then clean up from painting.
Ainsley was resting while we painted and cleaned up:)

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Mema and the fans

2010-04-14T08:11:00.001-07:00

My mom came over Monday so I could go grocery shopping. Had to snap a pic with her and the kids.

Finn practicing his smile.

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Last Tuesday

2010-04-12T11:58:00.000-07:00

Last week I pulled out all of Finns spring and summer clothes for Ainsley to wear. I found this cookie monster outfit that Finn wore in the first pics we have of him smiling. So I wanted to get Ainsley smiling in it too-which wasn't hard. The girl smiles all the time. She's such a happy baby.

Later we went out for a walk. Finn didn't understand why we had to stop to take a picture. He wanted to keep going.

I had him try to color a picture while I made egg salad.

Which turned out delicious. And it was somewhat healthy.

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Happy Easter!!!!

2010-04-12T11:57:00.003-07:00

We had a great Easter weekend. We celebrated both days. Saturday with the Murphys.
Me and Ainsley before brunch. Her first Easter dress!

Patrick with our nephew Liam and Ainsley.

Finn tearing into the fake grass at grandma Lolly and papa Bob's house. Making a mess.

Brunch. Sister in law Melonnie, Patrick and me and Ainsley.

Sunday morning he found the Easter basket from grandma Lolly and papa Bob and tore into the fake grass again. I'm sure I'll be finding it in the couch cushions for weeks, but any thing for some Easter fun!

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Cards opener and more

2010-04-12T11:57:00.001-07:00

A new cards fan has been born. She can't wait for her first Bush stadium trip topped off with nachos and a hot dog!

Finn is supporting his team too (thanks to papa bob and gma lolly) but he's moving so fast these days we had to do an action shot.

Patrick and his friend Tim put together our bed frame-a gift from my patents. So nice to have bedroom furniture. Makes me feel all grown up.

Patrick getting to relax Sunday night with the kids. He worked so hard this weekend cleaning out the basement and garage. Putting up thing on walls and moving furniture around for me-he's the best! Our house is so organized now.

Little doe eyes.

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My name is Bob, Sponge Bob

2010-04-08T05:34:00.001-07:00

Finn got some new jammies yesterday. He's very serious about them.

And also learning to smile on cue.

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Playdate fun

2010-03-27T13:44:00.001-07:00

Two weeks ago we had a playdate with some of our favorite people. Kennedy and Becca and Bennett and Crystal. We only caught pics of Finn and Kennedy playing with bubbles but it was a super fun day.

It started with finn getting ready with daddy. Go manly diaper boy! I think socks and a spoon are the perfect accessories for this diaper/helmet duo.

Bubble time.

Ainsley and I got some cuddle time that afternoon too.

Then later in the week daddy and Finn got some cuddle time.

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Caffine

2010-03-17T14:44:00.000-07:00

Do you ever have one of those days where you know you won't make it unless you have a coffee. Well, today was one of those days. I packed both kiddos in the car and went to starbucks drive thru. Lately I've been having a lot of those zombie-esk days. It seems as though neither of our kids wants to sleep through the night consistently. If one does the other wakes up. It may be a conspiracy. Hmmmm.

As you can see the coffee kicked in. Bubblepaloosa 2010.

Ainsley rested during bubblepaloosa.

But awoke to some jungle gym fun later on.

Finn then thought he needed some caffine, which I told him if he wanted to nap the answer was no. Haha. That kid is quick.

Then during the kids naps I ventured into the backyard to de-rock it to make way for Finn this summer. Wow there were a lot of rocks. I still have more to get but I'm almost done-then it's time to double up on the grass seed. And maybe rake up the sticks. Then bring on spring for real!

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY FINNEGAN!

2010-03-15T13:42:00.001-07:00

We celebrate Two great years with Finnegan Henry Murphy today. It's amazing how quickly these two years have gone. We've been through a lot but the main thing is we've made it through by trusting and resting in God. Patrick and I have learned a lot as parents. But we've still got a lot to learn.

Finn is the happiest, sweetest boy I've ever encountered. He's playful and adapts to his surroundings easily. Sure, he has epilepsy, but that's just one facet of his life and I truly believe it will make him a better person-he won't be able to take things for granted and neither will me or Patrick or his siblings. He is truly the greatest blessing in our lives (along with Ainsley).

Here are some pics from his b-day party this weekend (don't be offended you weren't invited it was just immediate family bc we didn't want Finn to get too excited and have a seizure on his big day.)

Although when both sets of grandparents got here he ran around smiling and giggling for about 15 minutes-he was sloop excited. We had to play a Mickey Mouse video to get him settled down again.

He had a jello/cream cake. Everyone else had Patricks tripple chocolate cake. Finn liked his better I think:)

Tom made balloon animals for the kids-such a special treat. Finn got a sword! He tried to joust with cousin Liam but Liam didn't understand the rules:)

Here are some pics of the big guy today. I feel the need to explain that Monday is jammie day at our house.

I tried to get him to smile. He said "paaaleeeze mom". Not really but he did with his eyes.

Here's a little one.

And an inquiring look.

Happy birthday Finn. Mommy and Daddy love you very much.

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