Cry Babies....

I was watching my nephew the other night and it was time for bed, so I attempted to put both kids down and let's just say it never worked- they were so bummed on me for breaking up the party- so we pulled a late night hang out sesh until 10! Seriously, I feel for all my friends with twins- how do you do it??? I put one down, they would cry and wake the other one up- one wouldn't want to leave the other and would cry out and reach for them.... on and on it went! EXHAUSTING I tell ya! This picture really captures the tear stained faces and "happy attitudes" about the whole evening!

And we finally put together Emery's "Crazy Coop" she got from Bubba's parents for her birthday (4 months ago!) She was so jazzed about it, she couldn't wait to get in it- so we let her ride in it- slammed, the way she likes it :) Don't worry, it eventually got upgraded and has all the essential parts to it.

Belated Father's Day...

This year we got to spend Father's Day in Santa Barbara with my side of the family for our family vacation- and it was a blast! We went to the zoo, farmer's market, a parade, the beach and hung by the pool. It was so fun, and as always, I loved spending time with my family- especially the dads!  One bummer, my pics from the week were lost when my camera card malfunctioned- so I am in the process of retrieving them (if possible)- so here's what I got so far.

Happy Father's Day Bubba!!!!

We spent the day at the beach and had a chance to tell the dad's in our lives how much we love them. I am constantly encouraged by my husbands efforts to bless me in my new role of motherhood. We have had our times of adjustment into our new parenting roles, especially with that changing our marriage- but I am so grateful that my husband is constantly working at our marriage, serving me, relieving me on long days, working hard to provide for our family, keeping us mindful of the Lord and His call on our life,  and always being mindful of the future. Here's to you my sweet Bubba-lou,

 I love you!

I also got to celebrate my dad in person this year- we had a great time having a big Sunday morning breakfast made by the ladies, then we took turns sharing what we appreciate about our dads. A really sweet time. My dad got some cute presents from the kiddos, a handmade mug from the little peanuts with their handprints on it! I was able to share with my dad how thankful I am to him for his selflessness and constant generosity to all who are around him. He has been such a great example to me of humility and serving others with a giving heart. Thanks Dad, love you.

There were many fun play times in this crazy shower- with 7 shower heads and no door!!!

My sweet girl playing on the beach in the hat my mom made her- so cute!

Emery on a train ride with Auntie at the SB Zoo

Two of the cutest rugrats I know... getting ready for their bike ride to the beach!

There's a Beast in my Back Yard...

So, check this out- we have the BIGGEST hydrangea bush in our back yard, probably 40+ years old like the house, it's honestly a beast! If you ever wanna a fresh bunch of flowers, please help yourself! Anyone having a party, shower, etc.- come over and cut as many as you'd like!

So, the family spent a little time out in the sunshine a few weekends ago, planting a few things in an empty plot of dirt on the side yard.... a rose garden, an herb garden, and a little pumpkin patch for the fall (with a few cucumbers mixed in!) I am excited about it and have already begun to enjoy some of my crops from my harvest! Everything is growing well, except the caterpillars are enjoying my basil before I get to it! Bummer! Thanks Farmer Bubba for your help!

I know, I know...

I know what you are thinking- "honestly Andrea, can't you keep your kid away from the chocolate already- haven't we gone through this already???" But can I just say, I live in an old house when they didn't believe in pantries, so the only thing I have for my dry goods is this tiny cupboard with a knob that is eye level to Emery. Often times, she helps herself to a snack and brings it to me to give her a small bowl of it or a cracker from the bag. But yesterday, she helped herself. Was is because she knew I wouldn't have given her any? probably, but here's what my stinker got into today- my dark chocolate I use for baking- is there "guilty" written on her forehead or what? I think the bar was as big as her! At least she makes me laugh with all this choc-o-holic behavior... she's just like my mom, we'll and me to for that matter!

Trip up North

Bubba had to do some work in Sacramento this past week, so me and Emmie hitched a ride and hung out with my family. We had a great time and enjoyed the much cooler weather in the Bay Area. We spent lots of time outside, playing in the dirt, riding tractors, bikes and visiting extended family. 

Uncle Bubba and Owen checking out "Mater's" motor :)

Two of my favorite little people

Grammie showing "Em & O" how to play the piano- oh what "music" there was!

My sweet girl....

My cousin Katie, her daughter Brooke, Me and Emery, and Danika & Owen

My dad looking on as we all pile on his tractor and take it for a spin :)

Family tractor time....

There was work to be done moving trees... 

This trip was really fun because Emery and Owen played a lot together, they are getting to the age where they really enjoy each other and get along/interact well. Owen is so awesome with her and will be a great big brother to his new brother arriving in Sept. Danika and Noah have been chosen to be adoptive parents to a sweet baby boy due this fall. They have chosen the name Finn for him and we are all prayerfully awaiting his arrival, not only into this world, but into our family as well! Can't wait to meet you, my 3rd nephew Finn!