July 30, 2011

Another fun day for us! Today is Ali's (our cousin) 8th birthday party at Pinz in Oakdale. You both were super excited for the party and especially laser tag. When we got there you started with bowling. Alaina you got two strikes and Aidan, you actually finished a whole game without getting bored or annoyed!! Mommy got her own lane and bowled two games so I could keep up my skills for next year's bolwing season! I didn't do too great and Daddy kept laughing at me when I'd mess up!

After bowling it was time for Laser Tag. Aidan, you started getting nervous and decided to buddy up with Uncle John to make you feel better. Once we got into the dark black-light room with the vests you wanted nothing to do with it! You were trying to leave the room and almost started crying. It was time to split into teams and you wanted no part of that. I ended up putting on your vest because I figured you'd change your mind. We got started and I was having fun shooting people and after a couple of minutes you were ready to try it and had a blast! Alaina, you had a lot of fun too but the other team didn't like when you shot them!! Aidan, you think you might like to have a laser tag birthday party.

We spent the rest of the day at home and when Daddy got up, Alaina you went to Theresa's and Aidan, you and Daddy went swimming. What did I do with my "alone" time? I cleaned the bathrooms!

July 29, 2011

We had to start the day bright and early with an oil change for my car. Well, the appointment wasn't until 9:00 but for us that is early this summer. There was a problem checking us in so you guys got to watch our car get started with the process. You were amazed to see it so high!

Today I had a special surprise for you...we were going to the circus at 7:00. It was a long day of trying to keep you busy at home before we had to get ready to go. You two were not getting along and didn't stay with any activity for too long. We went outside to make water balloons and Alaina, you are into biting holes in the balloons to make it spray...gross! Aidan, you kept trying to squish them and would always get sprayed in the face. When you got tired of that I had you color our swing set with chalk and wash it off with the hose. That didn't last too long because you were spraying each other's chalk off...Oh my!

We also made Puppy Chow today but didn't have enough powdered sugar. You guys like making recipes!

Finally, we woke up Daddy and left to run errands and grab dinner. We went to the Highland Cafe and Bakery and after we ordered the food I gave you your tickets. Alaina, you weren't sure of the word "circus" so I had to tell you. Aidan, you were so funny! You stood up and said, "I need a moment." Then you hit yourself on the head and fell too the floor! Needless to say you were excited.

Once we were at Circus Juventas you both were entertained by the music and everything going on. It was such a great show and it lasted for more than 3 hours! Our favorites were the tight-rope walking, the German wheel, and the swing. What a fun night! We didn't get home until 10:30 and you both fell right to sleep...Mommy too!

July 27, 2011

Today was the big day to have our driveway repaired. You guys were excited to see how it would look. We decided to go to Play Works today and I also had to run into work. The Luce's decided to meet us at Play Works so we headed into my work in the morning. You guys did great entertaining yourself while I move furniture around in my classroom since the custodians cleaned the carpet and tile floors. You set up the Playmobil Vet set following the pictures exactly right!

Then we went home to have lunch before going to Play Works. When we got home a big chunk of our driveway was gone and you guys liked jumping back and forth across it. Aidan, you were antsy waiting for our friends to call and tell us it was time to go! You had fun going on the climber, getting a treat from the gumball machine, and playing a few games.

After Play Works, Alaina, you had dance and Aidan, you stayed home with Daddy. Then we had to go straight to nerball and it was super hot! After nearball, we took Theresa with us to have dinner and a treat at DQ. Then it was home to play for a while until Theresa had to go home. You guys stayed up too late!!!

July 26, 2011

We decided to go to Sand Venture today! It didn't seem too hot so we were hoping we would get to stay a while with our friends, Kate and Beckett. We got there when they opened and we were one of the first people in the water. Alaina, you were 48" (with your flip flops on but they didn't notice) and could go on all the slides. You even did the diving board for the first time!! So fun. Aidan, you just love to swim and try out new things like a double flip under the water.

After swimming we had to run a couple of errands and then relaxed at home while I was trying to get an appointment to get our driveway repaired. When Daddy woke up he wanted to go swimming to you guys swam at the Y and I worked out. It was too late to cook so we stopped for dinner before coming home.

What a tired bunch we were!

July 24, 2011

Ah Monday, a day of nothing for us! You guys slept until 9:00 and I enjoyed having some time to myself. We layed low in the morning and then were off for an adventure to find new tap shoes for Alaina and a tap dancing board to practice on at home.

We ventured out to Chaska and it took awhile to find the place but finally did. Alaina, you did not want the "little kid" tap shoes and had to have the ones like the big girls. You liked looking at the costumes and accessories but we didn't buy anything else today. Aidan, you were trying to find boy tap/break dancing shoes but no such luck. I was able to get your mind off the shoes with our next plan. I had looked on line on how to make a tap dancing board and we were off to Lowe's. Everyone was going to have a job - Aidan, you were the foreman, Alaina, you were the gluer, and I was the measurer. We got into your favorite car cart and tried to find the supplies we needed. After talking with one of the workers we realized making this board wasn't going to be as easy as I thought. So we looked around and managed to find a piece of particle board that we thought would do the trick. Alaina, you carried the large piece for a while since I had to push the cart and then you found a cart on wheels and pushed the board and Aidan around the store. You were both so excited to try it out and were helpful.

When we got home you both put on tap shoes (Aidan, you wore Alaina's shoes) and went to town in the basement!! Alaina, you had dance tonight and put on a special outfit and were so excited to try out your new shoes.

After dance we had dinner and watched the new DVD we got with Aidan's dance recital on it. I think we will be watching this a lot!!

Alaina you had nearball tonight and went with Theresa. You didn't get back until late and convinced me to let you sleep over at her house! I said "yes" and you packed a box of stuff to bring over. Aidan, you were a little sad so I let you stay up later and sleep with me. I hope you have fun tonight, Alaina and Aidan, I hope you don't kick me!

Mommy

July 24, 2011

We started our day with breakfast and swimming before going home. Alaina, you burnt your finger on the waffle maker even after several warnings not to touch it. You had a blister on your finger and were afraid to put it in the water while you were swimming. We tried an ice pack and a bandaid and after swimming time you seemed to forget about it.

Before heading home we decided to go to the cemetery to see where Daddy's grandparents were buried. You guys had never been to a cemetary before so you were very interested in the whole thing. We couldn't find the right spot so had to call Auntie Kris to figure out where to go. We've had a lot of conversations about dying and cemeteries in the last couple of days!

When we got home after the long drive you were ready to play with friends and had your suits on and were in Sonja's water slide within 30 minutes. Aidan, you weren't feeling your best so after a couple of hours you were ready to stay inside for the night but Alaina, you played with almost all of our neighbors and ended up watching a movie with Theresa until 10:30!!!!

You both were exhausted and fell right to sleep tonight!

See ya in the morning,

Mommy

July 23, 2011

Well, we did not sleep well last night at least Daddy and I didn't! You were were tossing turning and Alaina, you hit me in the face several times as you were turning over!! We got up to have some breakfast and you guys liked the waffle maker. After breakfast you were off to swim again with your cousins. I think you guys could swim for hours if I let you!

We got cleaned up after swimming and went to lunch with the whole gang. Then we had to go back to the hotel to get ready. Aidan, Daddy walked you to the water carnival while the girls got ready. You saw a magic show and were a participant and even won a prize. We were all kind of laughing because your precious bear was a Christmas Bear from the year 2002!

You guys did pretty well in church and liked watching the wedding party. We went back to the hotel to kill some time before the reception and hung out in Grandma and Poppa's room. The reception was in a park so you guys were excited to play after dinner. We had fun eating, playing, and Aidan you had a ball dancing with Graeme and some other ladies!!

When we got home we relaxed for a bit and then went in the parking lot of our hotel to watch fireworks! Then it was off to bed but late again. This time we switched sleeping partners and Daddy and I are hoping that were are so tired that it won't matter how much you toss and turn!

July 22, 2011

Today was the big day we were leaving to go "Up North" for Cat and Graeme's Wedding (Cat is Daddy's cousin). We spent the morning packing things up and left around 11:00. Aidan, you were excited to play your new DS game but the sun was in your eyes so you had to get creative.

The car ride was long but you guys did pretty good except when we had lunch at Tobies. Aidan, it was like you had ants in your pants! You couldn't stay still and were talking non-stop. We hurried through that meal before we caused too much of a disturbance and were on our way again. Daddy listened to his headphones and we played our new 4 favorite songs over and over again the WHOLE trip: The Lazy Song, Love You Like a Love Song, One Less Lonely Girl, and Ordinary Girl (from the H2O mermaid show)!

When we finally made it to Hoyt Lakes Alaina, you asked, "Are we in the town Up North?" We had to explain what that meant! We met the Jambor girls and Grandma and Poppa Lakso at the hotel and checked out our rooms. Then we were off to dinner and then back to swim. You had fun going between the pool and the hot tub and swimming with Daddy.

We stayed up late in the Jambor's hotel room visiting and then it was off to bed - me and Alaina, Daddy and Aidan.

Love ya,

Mommy

July 21, 2011

It's Thursday and our first day going to Anne's house! We were all very excited. You guys took a couple of toys with you and were happy to see your new friends. I was excited to have some alone time.

I picked you up around 4:00 and you had some many things to show and tell me. Alaina, you showed me the meal plan for the week and Aidan you like the bread box with the rolling door and had to tell me about the frogs you found in Anne's yard. You also walked to the park and went on the water slide. You had a great day and are very excited to go back next Thursday.

Aidan, you had t-ball and were very relunctant to go. You think it's hot and boring but we convinced you anyway. Aidan, you can really hit a ball and run fast but the outfield is still not your favorite place to be. You need lots of reminders to stop playing in the dirt, to put on your glove, and be looking in the right direction. Your team changed their name from the Royals to Crocodile Fireworks, I wonder who came up with that name!

Tonight you guys are back to sleeping in your own beds. Since it is so hot outside I've been letting you sleep in the living room with the fan on or with me. We are planning on installing ceiling fans in your room at some point this summer so it won't be so hot!

July 20, 2011

Wednesday was errand day. You guys came to get my hair cut with me for the first time. I wasn't sure how it would go but your DS' and snacks helped a lot! No fighting or getting into stuff except for multiple glasses of water from the water cooler. Aidan you were so impressed with me getting my eyebrows waxed. You had tons of questions like, "Should you take off your shirt?", "What does that stuff feel like?", "How bad does it hurt?". And you held my hand for me. What an interesting experience! Alaina has seen it done so she was explaining step by step what was going on.

After that we had some lunch and headed to Wal-mart and Michael's to get stuff for our trip this weekend. I let you buy a DS game, Aidan, for the first time! You picked Lego Batman and were so excited to get home (this was in place of the Justin Bieber magazine!). Alaina you bought a Junie B. Jones puzzle book to do on the road trip up north. At Michael's we bought a gift for my niece and checked out the old school candy and we had to get some Chiclet's and candy buttons.

You guys did so great running errands with me! Usually after two places everyone is cranking and fighting but not today. We needed some rest time before dance class and day 4 on the water slide!! And yes we skipped nearball again because of the heat.

July 19, 2011

Tuesday, our day of nothing! Well, we decided to go to the Children's Museum and everyone was excited to go. We packed your new lunch boxes with snacks and drinks and off we went. The museum was super busy but that didn't stop you guys from having fun. Your favorite place is still the town and the blocks area. We took a break for lunch and then played some more.

When we got home we needed some relaxing time before heading to Sonja's to go down the water slide again! Aidan, you did not want to eat the tablespoon of beans we gave you and sat at the dinner table forever! Finally, we convinced you to eat them and did the old airplane trick and you did it. You need to be better about trying new foods!

Love,

Mommy

July 18, 2011

Happy Monday! We had a fun day today! We went to the YMCA with our friends Katie and Sophie to swim. It was super hot out so we had to find things to do indoors. Then we had lunch at McDonald's but you guys got in trouble for getting caffeinated pop so had to have water instead of Sprite or lemonade. You guys took turns riding in Katie's car and Aidan you were very impressed with their fancy car!

After lunch, Alaina, you went home with Katie and Aidan to have a play date and Aidan and I went home to have our own play date. We played Batman, watched Rango, and tried to plan your birthday party - circus party or a haunted birthday. Then we picked Alaina up and came home for a bit before having to leave to go to the chiropractor. Alaina, you don't like to watch me get adjusted so you stay in the waiting room and Aidan, you like to come with me. First I adjust you and then you pound on me for a bit before Dr. Boschee comes in.

Alaina you started dance class tonight and really enjoyed it! You want to get all of the gear that you see other kids have and want a tap-dancing board to practice on like I had when I was little! We skipped nearball tonight because of the heat and went for day 2 on Sonja's water slide!!

Love ya guys,

Sara

July 17, 2011

It was another hot day and I wasn't feeling too good after my late night with friends and my sore mouth! We laid low in the morning and then set off to find a new swimming pool. We went to 5 stores and couldn't find anything! We were very disappointed. When we got home Daddy was awake so we relaxed for a while before going to Sam's for lunch and to buy some stuff.

When we got home you guys decided to play babies and I needed a little rest. That didn't last too long when you saw that Sonja had the water slide out! We spent the afternoon and evening over there with our neighbors and it wasn't our best listening night but you had fun anyway.

Alaina, Maggie said your snapdragons were ready to pick so you were excited to put them in a vase. You are quite the gardener!

Love ya guys,

Mommy

July 16, 2011

I went to work in the morning and you stayed in our cool house with Daddy on this very hot day. We had a play date planned with Sam and Sarah in the afternoon and you were super excited. I got home just in time to take you and you spent the whole time at their house in the pool and on their trampoline. What fun friends you guys have!

After our play date we stayed inside for a while and then went for an early dinner at Pablo's. You guys kept busy with our doodle cards which was nice for everyone. Aidan, you sat with Daddy even though you really wanted to sit with me. Thanks for being a sport!

When we got home from dinner you guys were quickly in your swim suits and off to Lucas' and Abby's house to go down their slide into their swimming pool. You did this forever!! I was heading over to a girl's night with the neighbor's and you stayed at your friend's house with Daddy until late. It was a fun day for all!

July 15, 2011

Today was the big day for me to get braces!!! I went early in the morning and was excited to show you my new look!

Daddy took you guys to a police station class/tour for Aidan and I met you there. You were both intrigued by my braces and kept wanting to touch them! The tour was fun-we started with doing CompuKid where they made a disc with your picture, finger prints, and other information for us to have if you were to ever get lost. Then we toured the police station and the police cars and finished with meeting with an officer who showed us all of the gear on her belt. You guys were really impressed with the jail cell and the various tools! What a fun class.

After the class there was a big storm so we stayed home for a while. Then after Daddy went to sleep we decided to go see Mr. Popper's Penguins. We were a little late and the movie was packed but you seemed to enjoy it. We spent the evening at home with neighbor friends and relaxing time.

Good night,

Mommy

July 14, 2011

Last night Maggie brought you some of the tiny carrots she thinned out from your area of the garden. They were so cute! You ate some but said they didn't taste like carrots.

It's Thursday and I had big plans to get ready for my Usborne book party! It was a day of cleaning, shopping, and cooking and I needed you guys to help or keep busy. We started the day with much needed haircuts and a trip to Target. I knew that you guys would be more interested in shopping if you could buy something so we worked hard to fill our marble jars so you could get your $5. Alaina, you washed the chairs for me and that was your last marble. Aidan, you needed 6 so let's just say you owe me some chores or good behavior! You each had additional money so I was hoping you could buy something nice.

It was a rainy day so no colored hair spray today! Bummer for you both.

Aidan you bought some guys and Alaina you bought some pop-flavored lip gloss and a swing for you babies. After our errands we listened to our two favorite songs of the last week. "It's a Hard-Knocked Life" from the play, Annie, and "We Can Change the World" by the girl from Good Luck Charlie. We alternate each song on my iPod all the way home! You guys never get tired of your favorite songs!

After a day of cleaning, playing, and watching our new movie, Annie, it was time for you guys to go to Pho 83 with Daddy and then to t-ball for Aidan. Alaina, you were having a hard time deciding what to do. You wanted to go out to eat but also wanted to play with the kids at the party. We were hoping that Daddy would bring you back before t-ball but that didn't work out. Grandma and Poppa Lakso went to t-ball to watch so it was fun for you to see them.

You guys got to come to the party at the end for some snacks and play time and of course, Aidan, you had to dance for all of the ladies!

It was hard for you to get to sleep but eventually you did. I almost forgot the most important news!!! Alaina, you lost another top tooth and now have three missing on top in a row. You "anked" it out, as Aidan would say, and were so proud to put it under your pillow. Wonder what the tooth fairy will bring...

July 13, 2011

Aidan you woke me up your usual way: "Mommy, can you come downstairs with me and put on a show? You can lay on the couch and sleep while I watch TV." Then you got my glasses and my phone for me. You are so sweet!

After breakfast and getting ready for the day we went to the YMCA to decorate shirts. You had fun but it was tricky getting the shirts home!

We played for a while and had some lunch and then we were off to the Richfield library. We got there early so we went to the park and Alaina, you had to bring your babies and the double stroller. I know you will be a great mom some day!

The Harry Potter art class was a drop off class and you guys didn't really want me to go. I stayed for a bit but left after 10 minutes and checked out some books and then enjoyed the peace and quiet playing on my phone.

You guys were excited to show me your castles and Model Magic creations. Sounds like you really liked this class!

We stopped for a snack and then headed to Anne's house. You guys are going to start going to daycare 1 day a week for the rest of the summer and you liked meeting the new friends. Carter is your age, Aidan, so you will have a boy to play with! Alaina, you liked meet the 4 girls who were being silly outside. I think this will be a good experience for all of us!

It was cooking day! Aidan, you picked out the recipe and did most of it without any help! Alaina, you were a pro too.

Off to nearball we go after dinner....

July 12, 2011

It was a nice, relaxing Tuesday at our house. We started by going to the YMCA to play and I worked out. Then we came home and were surprised that Daddy was awake. I took advantage of that and went to the grocery store. Daddy was supposed to come up with something for you guys for lunch but when I got home I noticed take-out containers in the garbage. You tricked me! Daddy took you to SpeedDog, good thing I don't care too much for hot dogs.

We went on our very first family bike ride today. We rode to SACS and played on their playground. Aidan, your bike chain came off so Dadddy had to come back and save us by fixing it! We followed Daddy home and went on the trail by the pond. Aidan, you had flip flops on the wrong feet so you took it easy going down the big hill.

After some relaxing time we made dinner and then played outside with the neighbors. Aidan, you are really good at throwing a boomerang!! Alaina and I can't seem to get the hang out it. We wanted to prepare for our Harry Potter workshop on Wednesday so we borrowed Andy's copy of the first Harry Potter movie in exchange for our Super Mario movie. You guys seemed to like it once I explained a few things. We'll have to finish the rest in the morning becuase you guys are about to fall asleep....

July 11, 2011

I had to go into work today and you guys came with me. You even stayed in my room quietly while I had a meeting and our reward was to go see the movie Zookeeper. We had to really rush to make it to the movie on time but we did it! You guys thought the movie was funny and enjoyed popcorn and shared an Icee.

Then we went to the YMCA to meet a friend, Sophie, for a play/swim date. You have met Sophie at the dance studio and you guys are going to be in tap together in the fall, Alaina. You liked swimming together even though Aidan was bothering you. Aidan, your very loose tooth came out and you were brave. We put it in my purse to save until bedtime.

Until tomorrow...

Mommy

July 10, 2011

Cleaning day resumed and I had less help but still got a lot done. Theresa invited Alaina to go to the beach and you were gone for several hours! Aidan was bummed so he got to wash the dishes and make peanut butter playdough instead. When you got home we invited Theresa to go with us to the Y and we swam again. It was too busy so we didn't stay long. Another fun day at the Lakso house!

July 9, 2011

Today was cleaning day around the house! Everyone chipped in or stayed out of my way and before we knew it we had to leave to see the play Annie Jr. It was a great show and there happened to be an art show going on so we checked that out for a little bit.

Theresa came home from her trip today so you all three played together nicely. She had dinner with us and you really wanted to have a fire. Daddy was tired and needed to go to bed so we had the fire when it was still light out and VERY hot but it was still fun. We tried some Funky Flame stuff that was supposed to make the fire change colors but it didn't work.

We finished the night with a movie Aidan really wanted to see - a real person movie of the Fairly Odd Parents. You guys seemed to like the movie.

Love ya,

Mommy

July 7, 2001

We had a late start but made it to Bayport to meet up with the Bercich's and their cousins. We weren't sure what to expect so we brought a LOT of stuff with us. You guys really enjoyed the boat ride and swimming when we stopped. You even jumped off of the top of the boat into the water. We had some snacks and lunch and you guys played with your friends. It was over before were knew it and then we had to head home. By the time we got home we were all sunburned and tired. It was a great day but now we need a day of rest...

July 6, 2011

Today Daddy is back to his normal schedule and we are on our own! We started the day with some homework. You guys are really excited to finish your workbooks so we can go to Chuck E. Cheese to have some fun.

We had to run a bunch of errands to get ready for the boat trip with the Bercich's tomorrow. We went to the toy store to get your backpack and lunch boxes and to Target. We were tired and bored of errands when we got home. One purchase we made was a slip n' slide and you guys had to try it out right away!

Alaina, you had nearball tonight but it was at a different park and I couldn't find it! We gave up after a while and went to the park. You were disappointed. When we got home we had to go to Jake and Krissy's to feed Molly and water the plants. Alaina, you were my helper since Aidan was in trouble and had to stay inside.

Early to bed tonight since we have to get up earlier than normal to go on the boat tomorrow...

Nite,

Mommy