The Little Drakelets

Soft hair

2012-02-08T14:00:00.000-08:00

Abrianna perched on my shrinking lap, stroking my hair. "Momma, you have soft hair!" "Why thank you Abrianna", I replied. "Can you cut it?" she asked. "Why?" I replied. "Cause I want make a nest out of it."

On women and sex...

2012-02-04T16:17:00.000-08:00

Abrianna scored to get a Bi-mart booklet in the mail this week. Lucas was jealous. "Well, I'm gonna get one of mommy's magazines with women and sex!" he declared. "Ahhhh... What do you know about sex Lucas?" I carefully inquired. "Oh, what I heard on the radio ( thanks Mark Gungor) and what you said." " So what is sex, Lucas?" " I don't know." he replied. Whew! I thought I was in for a conversation I wasn't sure I was prepared for...

Sinking your teeth in goodness.

2012-02-03T16:56:00.001-08:00

God to the Rescue ... Again

2012-01-31T13:14:00.000-08:00

Mondays bespeak busyness in the Drake household- errands rushed through before violin lesson (which ran late) and a few more tacked on afterwards. Then home to feed my ravenous and cranky children.
Lunch finished the sun beckoned us to venture out before the clouds finished coming in from the west.
Tired little Abigayle began melting down on the way home.
Starting a pot of beans and setting a timer, Abigayle and I headed for a much needed nap.When the timer went off I carefully ( I thought) explained to Lucas how to turn the beans off. He heard "turn off the timer". Ignoring the nagging uneasiness of needing to check to see if the task was completed I slipped into dream land for maybe 10 min. An acrid smell pulled me back from unconsciousness. Bleary eyed, I roused myself and my baby. Stumbling from my room I walked into a wall of smoke stretching from floor to ceiling, billowing from a very dry pan of beans charring on high.
Rushing to turn it off, put water in it, and slamming a lid on the mess, I turned on a fan and opened a few windows drug my exhausted body back to bed. Abigayle rudely awakened cried. The smoke alarm screeched its announcement of a smoke filled house.
My head pounding, I turned on more fans and opened the door. Oh, I so wanted to go back to bed. But not with the ensuing chaos.
With the clearing of the smoke my headache dissipated and the fire alarms ceased its wails. Pulling myself together I scooped my crying child into my lap and cuddled her. Peace.
My sweet husband was kind enough to pick up a pizza for us. Lucas had the task of removing the charred beans to the compost pile. I have the fun tomorrow of picking out a new pan to replace my one and only pot that is beyond repair.
I'm grateful for God's protection but feeling a bit foolish to have gotten into that situation to begin with.

Owie!

2012-01-26T08:43:00.000-08:00

I was sitting cross-legged at my computer exposing my bare unshaven ankle. Abigayle ( 20 months), walked over and began rubbing. Her face grew concerned as she declared repeatedly, "owie! owie!" Well, I guess its time to shave off those whiskers.

Sledding

2012-01-25T10:56:00.000-08:00

We had to take advantage of the icy snow before it melted. It may be the only snow of the winter!

Such a thrilled grin!

I tried to get Abigayle excited. She was fine until it leveled out and we were going fast. Then she wailed. She DID NOT like the snow or sledding.

After the ride down the hill.

Daddy didn't have any better luck.

Abrianna had such fun with "woosus" when she finally braved a ride.

Then she was even brave enough to help carry the sled back up the hill instead of requiring somebody to help her up the hill.

Who needs a sled when it's this slick?

Snow!

2012-01-18T12:54:00.000-08:00

Building his snow bear.

Helping out.

First reaction to the snow.

Forecast said a severe winter storm with lots of snow. Maybe up to a foot in all. We went to bed with brown and woke up to white. My children were so excited they donned snowsuits, gloves, and hats and rushed outside before breakfast to put together a snowman. Pretty impressive one too. Then after breakfast it was back outside to build a snow fort. So much fun! Its really slushy so it sticks together- unlike the past few winters.

While reading...

2012-01-09T12:18:00.000-08:00

While reading a book to my kids on gratefulness, I read a line where the main character declared he had the best mom in the whole world! "Oh, no she's not!" Abrianna stoutly declared. "Why not? Why can't she be the best mommy in the world?" I asked. "Cause you're the best mommy in the world!" she replied. It's things like this that make all the work worthwhile.

Abrianna's learning to ride...

2012-01-08T09:55:00.000-08:00

Daddy patiently helped his "tangerine head" learn to ride her bike for a good half mile yesterday. She's getting it!

Christmas in California

2012-01-07T12:38:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve with my parents.

You know you got a good practical mid-western woman, when her wish is a shovel for her fireplace for Christmas.

Taking her time removing the paper to reveal some snuggly jammies from Aunty and Uncle.

Just around the corner is the cheese factory. Complete with a pond where you can feed fish and farm animals you can feed pellets too.

Bravely feeding a goat pellets.

Cousins in order of age, Annalena, Jadon, Zaylie, Lucas, Seth, Kirsten, Abrianna, Toby, and Abigayle.

The kids were just as happy feeding them leaves.

Two months ago...

2012-01-04T18:10:00.000-08:00

I know I've dropped off the photos and blogging scene.Now I can FINALLY reveal the reason. Lord willing, we'll be adding to our family towards the end of July. Feeling grateful to be feeling some better. I know that will improve even more soon. Lucas kisses my belly daily. He's old enough to have faith when momma says there is a reason for her not feeling so hot.

Third Thanksgiving.

2011-11-27T12:15:00.000-08:00

"See the pretty lights momma?" She was trying to blow them out like a candle.

First time FINALLY getting to ride a motorcycle. Thanks for sharing Peter.

Cause Mommy's water is always better.

Posing.

Always fun to watch and chase ducks.

Answering the phone.

2011-11-07T19:30:00.000-08:00

The phone rings. Abigayle ( 18 months) tears across the room exclaiming, "uh oh! uh oh!". She runs for her little chair quickly shoving it up to the counter and scrambling up where she in vain tries to reach the now finished ringing phone.

Sabbath afternoon at the "Hill"

2011-11-06T20:45:00.000-08:00

A Walk to the Park.

2011-10-30T14:31:00.001-07:00

Bubbles for Sabbath.

2011-10-28T19:11:00.000-07:00

Abrianna

2011-10-28T17:30:00.001-07:00

Abrianna leans over and says, "Mommy, I too tired to walk. I can only go kaboying, kaboying, kaboying."

The Hat.

2011-10-13T20:35:00.000-07:00

The multi-functional purse. When one tires of carrying it, simply rotate and place on your head for a hat.

Trumpets at Jubilee Lake

2011-10-01T08:17:00.000-07:00

Daddy loves me.

Maybe he should be called the butterfly whisperer? He caught 3 different ones.

Abrianna said, " mom come see the big bug." " Uhhh, that's not a bug dear."

Daddy examining it.

Watching the beautiful blue waters of the lake.

That was the third butterfly.

The girls collaborating on collecting rocks.

How full can we make this pocket?

So much fun to throw dust.

Look to the left. Do you see it? He made himself a dust slide.

Abrianna doing her happy running dance for being let out of the stroller.

Running away from the cookie ( abrianna) boogie ( lucas) monster.

She made it.

Does she have something? Yes. Charcoal in hand and mouth.

Loving the baby...

2011-09-28T12:23:00.000-07:00

Unstoppable

2011-09-28T09:40:00.000-07:00

I was working in the kitchen. Glancing in the dining room, I happened to see my baby on the table, picking flowers, drawing with a pen, and shaking the salt out. Busy little baby. She can get on the bar too. Drawers are opened and contents spread. Have to make sure that there are no knives within her reach now.

Lucas

2011-09-24T09:34:00.000-07:00

He picked out the place and the expressions. Of course, he had to stick out his tongue.

The nice one.

Mom, take a picture of me hiding behind the leaves. This boy is a HAM. He loves his picture taken.

Abrianna

2011-09-24T09:30:00.000-07:00

She love pink and especially pink flowers.

Profile.

Smell the flower for me daughter.

Baby blues...

Back lit. I love it but need more practice.

The Maiden Voyage.

2011-09-23T08:07:00.000-07:00

"Please build me a racer daddy", Lucas begged last fall. "Sure Lucas," he replied. They bought the materials which have sat until about 2 weeks ago. A weekend was spent building it. Lucas earned the money to buy blue spray paint to paint it. Here are pictures of the maiden voyage down a hill next to our home.

Daddy helped out by pushing up the hill.

The look of exhilaration.

Wow! This is going a little fast!

The triumphant smile! ( not sure why he was so yellow in the photo. Couldn't edit that out)

Partners in Crime.

2011-09-23T07:57:00.000-07:00

Giggles erupting....

Little finger scooping forbidden food into a willing mouth.

Lil fingers digging in...

Abigayle and Abrianna have a system worked out. Abigayle stands on a chair and gets into dessert on the counter. She happily shares with big sister. Big sister gets to partake without being the one into the forbidden food.

A simple pleasure...

2011-09-12T18:15:00.000-07:00

Abrianna was sharing her ice cream with little sister. Made for some adorable shots.

Sweet and kissable little face...

The (almost) Last of the Corn...

2011-09-12T18:09:00.000-07:00

Early this morning found the girls and I outside husking corn. When all was said and done this batch yielded 21 quarts. I think I have a total of 44 quarts. YEAH!

Abigayle was 'helping".

I found a caterpillar ( corn boar?) on a piece of corn. Abrianna gladly claimed it as hers. "Mommy! Do caterpillars talk?" she innocently inquired. "Yes, in caterpillar language." A few seconds later, excitedly, "Mommy the caterpillar talked to me and it said it wuves me ! I WUVE the caterpillar!"
Later mister caterpillar was joined by his brown brother in a jar and are gnawing a less than ideal piece of corn in an old pickle jar.

A laid back Sabbath day...

2011-09-10T20:46:00.000-07:00

Sabbath was deliciously laid back today. Such a welcome relief from life's hectic pace of late. I watch some religious dvd's. Talked with Rick about the Bible and end time events. Then while he napped the kids and I went in the back yard. Of course, I got my camera to take some pictures.

As I've said before... Abigayle LOVES Eliab. She gets such a big grin and he is so tolerant.

Such a silly face.

I was really enjoying the lighting as my kids played in and by their pool.

I like this shot cause it looks like I photo-shopped the blue into her eye. I didn't. Just good light.

Her hair is all lit up.

I took her picture while she was screaming. I did ask her to scream for me as I thought it would be a memorable picture.

Mom, take my picture while I hang on here.

"Shishing" and bulldozers.

2011-09-07T19:35:00.000-07:00

Earnestly telling me about "shishing!" (fishing).

With the fishing pole.

She loves to put on hats after her bath. I think it's to warm her head up.

She LOVES pink and especially pink flowers.

He was quite well occupied building dams and lake in the driveway.

Little orange head with an orange flower.

2011-09-05T20:09:00.000-07:00

Louis and Clark Trail for Labor Day.

2011-09-05T12:54:00.000-07:00

Lucas was the only one brave enough to float in the river. It was too cold! The outside temp was only in the mid-seventies.

But that didn't prevent the little ones from the fun of rock throwing...

Doesn't a ketchup covered face just go with a picnic?

Buddies.

I bribed her with an oreo to cooperate for pictures.

"Mom, take a picture of me eating!"

Those eyes...

Sparkle!

Isn't Josiah the cutest thing?

Abrianna and the straw bales.

2011-09-01T20:22:00.000-07:00

Fall is comin'...

2011-08-31T21:23:00.000-07:00

He was quite the ham posing for me.

I have finally learned if I sing to her she'll smile at me. Yeah!

Her little baby toes are so precious.

We Drakes stick together.

Even if we don't cooperate.

Best she would do for me. Until Lucas starts yelling the the tractor out bailing hay was gonna run us over. Then panic ensued.

At the Fair.

2011-08-31T21:03:00.000-07:00

Old tractors and fair go hand in hand. Lucas LOVED sitting on this tractor and having his picture taken.

Must be a little boys dream... Fire trucks and REAL firemen. Even an opportunity to sit in the fire truck.

Miniature animals. This donkey was very cute and very LOUD when it brayed.

Lots of fun to learn to milk a "cow."

Such concentration.

The kids area had a section about grain. It was equipped with a kiddy pool of wheat and little sand buckets. Abigayle didn't hesitate to climb on in. She had wheat in her pockets, diaper, and shoes.

A bag toss where everybody could win an apple was fun too.

The peddles were a bit hard for Abrianna so Lucas jumped right in there and helped her out. What a wonderful big brother.

I won a first and second prize on the photos I entered. Kind of exciting.
We saw many friends, old and new and had a wonderful time sampling frozen chocolate covered banana and an elephant ear. Definitely will do this again. Kids and momma loved it.

Rude awakening

2011-08-30T20:52:00.000-07:00

Abigayle was begging me for a nap today. Usually we wait until 1 or 2 but it was noon by the time she'd journeyed onto the land of nod.
I snuggled her against me and walked to my room to lay her down. Her eyes popped open as her little hands clutched for me. The teething has been making it particularly difficult for her to stay asleep.
I lay down and nursed her back to sleep. "A few more minutes and maybe I can sneak back out into the other room and get some things done", I thought.
Nope. Horrible shrieking ensued as my little orange-head tore into my room clutching an empty water bottle while hot on her heals was her big brother, a bowl of water in hand.
Mommy was supposed to be a safe haven. Nope. Not today. Momma and baby were unceremoniously drenched in cold water aimed at little orange head.
I don't care how well your baby sleeps... Mine WILL NOT sleep when cold water is thrown in her face. She never did go back to sleep but she did go to sleep several hours early this evening.

Pendleton Pool

2011-08-29T09:36:00.000-07:00

Lucas and Austin were battling it out. One minute friends and the next enemies.

Sliding with a little help from Dad.

Loving the water.

Even Abrianna finally decided she was enjoying herself.

I love that tongue.

Abigayle was trying to feed Jared.

She's our water baby. Every time I put the camera up to take pictures she squat and try to drink the pool's water.

Hanging out with friends. Abrianna and Cameron had fun playing together.

All ready for the fair... Little Miss Farmer Girl.

2011-08-25T19:30:00.000-07:00

Abigayle's new skill.

2011-08-25T13:15:00.001-07:00

Digging deep with both hands... and only 15 months old.

Big brother is too good of a teacher.

What's growing in our garden...

2011-08-24T20:52:00.000-07:00

Humongous corn! It's 12 1/2 feet tall.

Rick is standing on the ground reaching up to show how high the ears of corn are growing.

The cucumbers are growing up the corn. Quite convenient.

Smiths Ferry.

2011-08-23T09:25:00.000-07:00

She's got it figured out.

With the bubbles in focus...

Lucas' turn.

Anticipating the arrival of the frisbee.

Let her go...

Here she comes.

Grandma love.

Daddy and daughters.

Truckin' right along.

Back toward the cabin.

Going fishing for the first time with Uncle Reggie.

Learnin' to put flowers behind her ears.

Or on her head- thanks Abrianna.

Deflated tough guy.

He's tough once again.

Abigayle and Eliab.

2011-08-18T20:56:00.000-07:00

The light was begging for photographs this evening and who could be a better subject than my precious Abigayle. I love how her hair is finally getting long enough on top to stick up.

Eliab happened along in time to get his picture taken too. Abigayle adores him and he's quite tolerant. They're only a couple of weeks apart in age too.

Behold the fierce Lion!

Sticks are wonderful for my teething toddler.

Spray bottle of water again.

Daddy and his precious girls.

Cool summer time.

2011-08-18T10:27:00.000-07:00

When the hose is missing... What should you do? Attach the sprinkler head to the faucet. Works great. COLD!

All joining in the fun when it's turned low...

Or run away when brother turns it up. Look at his impish grin.

Does she want in the pool or not? Testing it with her fingers.

Maybe I'll try to get in...

Maybe not.

Rain Rain Go Away...

2011-08-17T21:47:00.000-07:00

Give a boy a squirt bottle and he'll invent a game. This one was called "Rain Rain Go Away."
It's basically squirting oneself or one's sister with water. Simple and fun.

My blue eyed girl.

Peek!

A Hard Lesson.

2011-08-16T21:41:00.000-07:00

I was chatting with my mom on the phone, when Lucas stumbled into the the house wailing, "I killed a bird!"
Quickly ending the conversation with my mom, I walked out to survey the situation. He led me to the corner and next to the dirt sifter was the small crushed body.
He had found the bird eating Jasper's food and caught it. Escaping from him, it tried to hide in the corner. He tried moving things to reach it and inadvertently crushing it.
"Momma! Was it a girl or a boy? Did it have babies? Do I need to find them?", he sobbed. I explained to him that fortunately it was past time for little baby birds and more than likely there wouldn't be a family left motherless. We wrapped the minute body in a paper towel and Lucas buried it.
I tried to explain that someday in Heaven we won't have death and that it was an accident and not his fault and next time he needed to be more careful. Where are the books that should prepare me for dealing with this? I wish I just naturally had more wisdom for such situations.

Luis and Clark Trial Park

2011-08-14T11:57:00.000-07:00

He's chilling here. He cried in panic at the beginning cause it was fast and he was scare.

What? A picture of me??

Getting sprayed by the water gun was NOT Abigayle's idea of fun!

Lucas could manage with a little help.

She enjoyed kicking her little feet in the cool water. She could reach the rocks on the bottom here.

The man behind the spray.

Little people simple pleasures... Such as filling one's boots with rocks or water.

Hours of entertainment.

Playing with a 'sticky' worm.

Beautiful Hannah.

Cammie and Josiah.

Cheryl and Hannah.

Rachel and Abigayle.

Morning walk to the park.

2011-08-13T08:00:00.000-07:00

I recently learned that these type of swings work great double. My girls enjoyed swinging...

A kicking their darling little legs...

Abigayle fished the shovel out of the bottom of the stroller...

"Dat? Dat?"

He's confident enough to ride for several seconds without his hands.

Homeward bound.

In the garden...

2011-08-11T19:43:00.000-07:00

Rick has been wanting to pull out our roses for years. This year he did and converted it into two raised beds. These beds grow cucumbers and corn like nobody's business.

Take my picture mom!

Eyes of blue...

Both my kids found cucumbers amongst the corn. Made great cool summer evening snacks during worship- though a bit messy.

Lucas found a zucchini to add to our stash. Zucchini bread anyone?

Popsicle with Serena

2011-08-09T18:15:00.000-07:00

Abrianna enjoying the sweet coolness of a Popsicle with her buddy Serena

Lucas' aspirations

2011-08-07T21:04:00.000-07:00

He declared to his daddy while hot tubbing this evening that he was going to get married at age 14 to Dea's sister Sienna ( whom he told me yesterday doesn't like him) and have 100 kids. Lot to live up to there.

Evening pictures

2011-08-07T20:21:00.000-07:00

Fresh out of the garden peas. Mmm...

He was so full of something this evening. Couldn't sit still!

Miss Abrianna's turn. We even got to use the beautiful pink flower that she found as a prop.

Love those eyes!

Sabbath with the Johnston's.

2011-08-07T09:56:00.000-07:00

Lucas had such a fabulous time expending energy on this rocket.

Launch.

There it goes!

Aunty Cammie's strawberry coconut popciscles were so mouth-watering.

Always better when enjoyed with a friend.

Josiah was a joy to photograph. His blue eyes are astounding.

Sprinklers were a great way to pass the afternoon.

I love the sidewalk and sprinkler framing in this shot.

Swimming Lessons Session 2.

2011-08-05T16:39:00.000-07:00

Going under...

And up she comes... No tears. No crying. This is an amazing improvement. Level 2 here comes Abrianna!

Water has gone from scary to fun!

Down...

Completely submerged...

And up again for air. This is an amazing accomplishment for Lucas too.

So much fun!

With the kick board.

She's a going girl

2011-08-05T16:32:00.000-07:00

She can climb up in the chair and proudly rock herself.

Or find a discarded chair left by big sister and get into the goodies on the counter... like spilled chocolate cake batter.

Or how about sister's pizza?

Rook's Park

2011-07-30T21:19:00.000-07:00

Do I want to go play or not....

I think I'll just hang out with dad.

Superman!

Up on the monkey bars.

Daddy helping Miss Abrianna into the water.

Off they go.

Trucking back.

Ker-splash! See Lucas' mirror image?

Drop for 10!

What a beautiful bunch of flowers.

Sabbath morning pictures.

2011-07-30T15:02:00.000-07:00

I have been wanting to take pictures. Just take pictures. I need to get back to the basics of what makes a good picture. Brush up. I had the time since I stayed home from church to make sure Miss Abigayle was not going to spread any remnant germs from yesterday. Here are my favorites.

Love those delicate little fingers.

Her happy smile.

Her concentration.

Getting it together.

What mom?

There goes a bird.

Put that hair thing back up there!

Like this?

That's not my penguin..

Enjoyed my quiet morning with my baby. A rarity.

From pretty and clean to a mess!

2011-07-27T14:24:00.000-07:00

Peering carefully into the pool

Getting splashed by big brother.

Kids made a mud hole. So I took her dress off and went into the house for a minute. Came back to this.

What would summer be like without mess and mud? Hey, us Drakes have a reputation to uphold, right?

Baking bread.

2011-07-27T12:01:00.000-07:00

Little hand squeeze, mush and pat the dough.

Soon into the pan to raise and bake. Such fun to help momma.

Swimming lessons Level 1

2011-07-26T13:55:00.000-07:00

My goal for swimming lessons is to get my older children past their fear of water. It's working! I'm not sure if they're quite brave enough to advance to level two yet.

I was thrilled to be able to take pictures today. I'm looking forward to when Rick can come too and I can have varied angles without a squirming/crying 14 month trying to go and join in the fun. Makes clear shots and creative angles almost non-existent.

Abrianna was a bit reluctant to do much in the water today. She refused to be dunked. Yesterday she was dunked and boy was she an upset little girl. Lucas will dip his face in the water. He's still working on full submersion. I'm hoping that will happen before the weeks out.

Mmmmm!

2011-07-24T21:09:00.000-07:00

Tis very hard to sneak thing past your kids... Abigayle saw me eating an ice cream cone and began to insistently pester for a bite, then another and another, exclaiming after each bite, "Mmmmm!" That little chocolate covered face was too cute to skip capturing.

Play gone awry.

2011-07-24T08:55:00.000-07:00

My great aunt and uncle were visiting from CA. My children have love love loved! playing with their Uncle Ernie. Abrianna and Uncle Ernie where in a playful game of tug-of-war while I was putting away our haystack beans from lunch. Happy giggles turned into pain-filled wails as she gripped her wrist! Rick was discerning the seriousness of the injury. Glancing up and seeing her pasty face, I knew. A dislocated elbow, AGAIN! I had believed we were past that as it's been more than a year and a half since her last one.
I moved to the living room and attempted to relocate it as I have done in the past... to no avail. It WOULD NOT pop back.
I began wracking my brain as to who we might call who could fix her elbow avoiding paying $500 for an ER trip. In the mean time, Aunt Florene had taken the job of soothing Abrianna while applying a bag of frozen green beans to her elbow.
Rick disappeared into his office, while I called a client who's husband is a pediatrician. Yes, he would help us. I announced to Rick that I had a solution, to which he replied he did too. He had found a video from Youtube.com of a doctor giving instruction on relocating a nursemaids elbow. I couldn't stomach doing it again. So I tried to stay away from the process. Alas, my avoidance attempts were to no avail. I had to come and help hold her still. Two attempts later it was all the way back into place and she could move her arm once again. Praise God! Thank you Rick for being able to stomach the job and Youtube.com for the instructional video.

Sabbath Afternoon Water Play.

2011-07-23T20:03:00.000-07:00

Lovin' her kitty Maryann.

Come in and play, Abigayle!

He lifted her in, but she promptly wanted back out.

Playing in the water is only on her own terms.

Even big sister couldn't entice her in.

She must have been thirsty. She found some discarded clothing and dipped it in the water for a drink...

...Then used it for a hat.

Abrianna found a lady bug, "It's saying, 'do you want to be my friend?'", she said. "Does it?" I asked. "Yes!" she replied.

Sisters...

2011-07-21T04:06:00.000-07:00

Always has a rock in her mouth if she can...

I adore this picture. She is so difficult to photograph or maybe I'm just not fast enough of on the draw.

Sisters...

Abrianna always has had a flower in hand from her toddler days. For Abigayle her item is of choice is consistently a rock. All the better if she can get a little one and put all the way into her mouth.

Criteria for a wife.

2011-07-16T20:04:00.000-07:00

I have decided that Lucas is plenty old enough to have an area to be responsible for, a jurisdiction if you will. His responsibility is to make sure the table is cleaned off and wiped after each meal.
He isn't particularly happy with this new arrangement, trying to reason his way out of it. "Why mom?" he asked in a whiny voice.
"Well son, I don't want you to grow up thinking having a messy table is normal." I replied. "Well, when I grow up," he said in a huffy voice, "I'm going to ask the ladies whether their mommies kept clean tables or not. I'm going to pick one who kept a messy table so I won't HAVE to clean it!"

Rainy Sabbath Afternoon.

2011-07-16T17:13:00.000-07:00

He was not sure how much he liked rain in his face.

But that didn't stop him from jumping around in the rain.

She loves being able to use her pink princess umbrella.(My favorite of these photos.)

Like a typical brother, Lucas loves to get a rise out of his sister. That was accomplished by whacking her umbrella on the pass.

Rain is slacking off now.

Jasper ( our "fearless" German Shepherd) reacting to his fear of thunder ripped up all our bags of bark. Something to add to our Sunday project list...

Chalk drawing

2011-07-13T20:54:00.000-07:00

She wants to be involved so badly.

Why look at the fun Lucas is having while drawing race cars.

How Lucas deals with the situation of unwanted help...

Animatedly telling about her drawing

Drawing big blue caterpillars for herself and little pink ones for Abby.

Sabbath afternoon adventures.

2011-07-10T16:55:00.000-07:00

Heading down the road to look at some adjoining land.

We stopped by the garden where Jeremy ( friend) caught a crawdad.

...Which Abrianna proudly and bravely held.

Did I say brave? This is VERY brave. Her favorite part ( not mine!)

Abigayle's was eating rocks.

RIP Daring Mouse.

2011-07-09T21:55:00.000-07:00

The Hero's of the story

Little legs trudge through the tall grass, little arms guarding his face.

Two beady eyes watch, eyeing the small opening on his pant leg. Tiny feet propel the small furry body up and through that opening. Wild shrieking pierces the air. "Lucas what's wrong?" daddy asks as Lucas frantically claws the contents out of his pants pockets. Silence meets the question by my shaking little boy. A few steps later, the panicked shrieking starts all over, along with a death grip on his pant leg. Rick peels the pants down revealing a tiny foot and tail. Jeremy ( a friend) leans over and plucks the crushed dead mouse out of his death grip. RIP daring mouse you have learned your lesson well.

Sprinklers and water fights.

2011-07-07T07:59:00.000-07:00

All the kids thought the sprinkler was for getting a drink.

Miss Abrianna bravely ran along the edge.

Abigayle got stuck under the spray and couldn't figure out how to get out.

"Mom, take a picture of me kicking my boot off!"

The bravest, right through the middle.

Abrianna dutifully filled her cup and created a mud hole that Abigayle found and played in with relish!

Look at those dirty hands and feet. ( I rinsed her off in the cold sprinkler much to her dismay.)

Kite boarding.

2011-07-04T12:58:00.000-07:00

Assessing the kite boarding conditions- winds 40 mph +.

Fishing.

This water is COLD!

What could be more thrilling than throwing rocks in the lake.

Here comes a boarder.

Another use for a sun hat.

See momma, my hands are all clean!

Rick beginning to body drag after a launch by Reggie.

Jubilee Lake

2011-07-04T10:48:00.000-07:00

Her real thoughts on watermelon. She throwing it on the ground she toddled off to other more interesting things.

Doing a happy dance in the snow.

Ooops! A bit slippery there son.

A boy's favorite activity.

Bites? Stings? Hives!

2011-07-04T10:31:00.000-07:00

After administering benedryl she faded away to the land of nod.

Happily splashing at the beginning of her charcoal bath.

Quite a bit dirtier after playing for a bit.

An Evil Frog ( er, toad).

2011-07-01T21:53:00.000-07:00

Sitting in my chair on the sunshiny hill overlooking the Columbia River at Roosevelt Park nursing my baby as the wind whipped by, I hear a terrified shriek, followed by my 5-year old son vaulting into my lap hysterically exclaiming about an evil frog hidden in his dirt pile.
I figure he's describing a toad. I ask Rick to go, pick it up, and introduce it to our children. Mass panic ensues as our oldest two children try to scale to the top of me and away from that evil frog ( in daddy's hands) that might devour them at any second.
"Look Lucas and Abrianna. Isn't it cute? It's like your Toad Makes A Road Book. It won't hurt you." Gradually shrieks give way to curiosity and finally cautious giggles- as long as Mr. Toad doesn't come too close. Lucas is fascinated with the fact that toads pee on you as a means of escape.

Summer has arrived!

2011-06-22T20:51:00.000-07:00

Maybe I have a water baby?

What could be more .fun that splashing your sisters? ( do you see me in the photo?)

Home made bread... Mmmm...

2011-06-22T12:15:00.000-07:00

Slicing into that goodness.

The cave.

Beautiful fragrant fresh made loaves of bread cooling on the counter. A hungry little three year old. A momma busy in the other room with the laundry. The outcome is pictured above. The loaf wouldn't even slice after all that diggin' with the butter knife.

I can't really be mad. She was too cute.

Boy Kitten.

2011-06-22T11:43:00.000-07:00

Can I pet her too?

Abrianna scored big this morning snagging her cat, "Boy Kitten". (Boy Kitten is a year old female and not very friendly. )

Strawberry Shortcake.

2011-06-20T22:11:00.000-07:00

Rick and I call her Strawberry Shortcake. I didn't realize until we were at the Darcy's how much they really looked alike until I saw a Strawberry Shortcake like I had when I was a little girl. Which one is the real thing?

The Barber.

2011-06-18T12:35:00.000-07:00

Before daddy's buzz cut.

The scenario is as follows. I'm cutting Rick's hair. Lucas says, " momma, may I trim my neck?" "No Lucas. You can't see you neck to trim it. Hold still I'll trim it with the razor." A few minutes later," I'm gonna trim my bangs." I turn to Rick and ask, "Is this worth a fight?" "Nope," he replies. " let him do it." So several hacks later, we decide that reality discipline would be to shave his head. Oh, he didn't NOT want that done. It took awhile to get him to sit on the chair for the deed to be done.

After the buzzing was completed, he ran the the bedroom to see the finished product in the mirror. Oh the wails! Rick and I ( shame on us) couldn't help from laughing. Well.... If you're gonna make a mess out of your hair there is consequences son.

After the buzz cut.

"What is that wump?"

2011-06-14T20:45:00.000-07:00

I was laying on the floor trying to nurse Abigayle to sleep, when who should walk in but Miss Abrianna in need of a cuddle.
That cuddling so gave way to exploring mommy's body. "Momma, what is that wump ( lump)?" "It's a mole Abrianna." "What is a mole?"she asked. "It's like a raised freckle." I replied. "Can I pick it??" she inquired hopefully. "It won't come off Abrianna." A minute later, "Momma, I pushed it!" A look of full concentration while she repeatedly tried to pick the "wump" off. Sorry daughter, "wumps" don't come off.

All boy...

2011-06-14T09:56:00.000-07:00

How high can he jump?

How tough can he be?

Scanning the horizon.

Everything is a weapon.

Abrianna and the Iris

2011-06-07T11:26:00.000-07:00

Love how the black and white made the details pop out.

Her shirt and the iris matched so nicely.

I love joining in this linked in party! http://my3boybarians.com/2011/06/sweet-shot-tuesday-58/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+my3boybarians%2FxIxQ+%28My+3+Boybarians+-+WP%29

Drama Queen or Future Actress? You decide

2011-06-05T13:57:00.000-07:00

Abrianna slipped and fell bumping her leg. She ran wailing to me.Hmmmmm, might be a bruise forming I mused. " Lucas, please get me the 'green stuff" to put on it," I requested. He came back with 'green stuff', gauze, scotch tape, and a band aid proceeding to truss her up with all sorts of bandages.
The gauze and scotch tape were wrapped around her thigh and the band aid's final resting place was on her shin.

The wailing and limping lasted for several hours. Till... I got tired of the drama and removing the tape and gauze from her thigh. Oh, she really wailed when I did that. Horrors, I removed the bandage from her wounded leg, to reveal... nothing. When she realized that, the crying and limping stopped.
Later on, I repeated process with the non-necessary band aid on her shin. Same story second verse. Maybe a phase. Maybe not?

A flying leap...

2011-06-02T14:13:00.000-07:00

She wet her dress....

2011-06-02T14:06:00.000-07:00

In the massage room working on a client ( minus a babysitter) I hear Abrianna burst into tears. Upon emerging 10 minutes later, I am met by a girl in a clean dress, and a boy with an impish grin. "Abrianna wet her dress," he declares. Hmmm.... Not anything unusual. Then he says, " actually.... I had to go to the bathroom and I couldn't make it... So I peed on her dress and the blanket on the floor."
I am speechless. How do I deal with such a boyish stunt?
I ask, "what do you think I should do to you?" "Smash my Lego castle," he declares.
I don't think this is sufficient.
Rick walks in the door and I relay the story to him. He walks Lucas to his bedroom for some stiffer discipline. What would you do?

Abrianna and ice cream

2011-05-26T14:10:00.000-07:00

Ahhhh... Tillamook mudslide cone. Mmmmm..

And She's off...

2011-05-25T20:49:00.000-07:00

2011-05-25T15:57:00.000-07:00

Watching outside

2011-05-24T19:27:00.000-07:00

Wistfully watching out the window.

Abrianna's naptime woes

2011-05-24T19:19:00.001-07:00

Peek a boo! I see my.... twin?

2011-05-24T11:22:00.000-07:00

Hmmmmm

2011-05-24T10:38:00.000-07:00

Hmmmm.... What's going on in her little head?

When you give a baby candy...

2011-05-22T20:59:00.000-07:00

When Abrianna's away... Abigayle will play.

2011-05-22T11:54:00.000-07:00

Little fingers steal into the doll house.

Examination.

Picking up the toys... but they won't stay put.

Stuffin' them inside...

All done....

Sabbath afternoon .... a family adventure.

2011-05-21T20:15:00.000-07:00

In the Drake household, Sabbath afternoons are usually spent together as a family. Such nice relaxing well spent time.

My older two always lead the way on their bikes.

When resting Abrianna spent her time digging in the dirt intent on finding ants and worms.

Lucas was writing, " I love Lucy. I love mom and dad. I love Lightening McQueen."

All interacted for awhile in the nice soft dirt of a nice gopher mound.

Lucas was hot doggin' it through the water.

Until he crashed.

Filling his little firetruck boots with water.

My brave little boy trudging soaking wet up the hill for the last stretch home. Not pictured was Abrianna's fit for the last 20 minutes before we reached the car. She stopped immediately upon getting into her car seat. Silly girl...

Picket fence and family...

2011-05-19T19:59:00.000-07:00

I see you Lucas!

What a silly brother I have.

Serious business that watering.

Oh, I'm having so much fun with my camera. Lucas was a great prop this evening and I FINALLY got some pictures I really like of Abigayle. Lucas shimmied along the top of the fence for the first shot. Then was dancing around behind me for the second. Rick was watering the tomatoes which seemed to be of great interest to Abigayle. So thankful I am learning how to capture these moments. So much fun and nice to have a creative outlet that I enjoy!

Living Life with passion.

2011-05-18T13:17:00.000-07:00

Bright eyes.

The Jolly Farmer

Faces

2011-05-17T12:44:00.000-07:00

His mean face.

Just chillin.

Very blue eyes.

Those piercing eyes.

Love Cup

2011-05-16T15:21:00.000-07:00

"Momma, this is my love cup from my heart," said Lucas holding up a lego trophy cup.
Ahhh, son. So logical. We talk about love cups being empty or full. Now we know what it is...

And She's off... almost...

2011-05-16T15:19:00.000-07:00

Down time. Family time. This is Sabbath afternoon in our home. This Sabbath we decided to let little Miss Abrianna attempt riding a peddled bike without training wheels. The balance is great. The peddling still needs some work.
We returned to the house for her Skuut bike and enjoyed walking down to the golf course and back. ( The walk did afford me a bit of photo opportunity.)
We'll try riding the bike again another day.

Lucas and Abigayle's birthday party.

2011-05-14T21:02:00.000-07:00

Living life out loud.

Carefully touching the frosting.

Diggin' in.

Dropping cold ice cream on her lap.

"Momma! Help! It's cold and sticky!"

She turned her candle into a spoon. Later Lucas brought her a real spoon.

Opening his gifts.

Opening her gifts.

Playing with her new gear toy.

The pyramid is falling down.

With Mother's day weekend being busy, our friends weren't available to help celebrate Abigayle's birthday by herself.

So I combined Lucas and Abigayle birthdays turning it into a taco night. Such fun to sit out and relax while visiting and kids played happily together. The trampoline was great entertainment.

Lucas couldn't wait for the cake and ice cream. Then "Mom can I open my presents now??" Such energy.

Abigayle wasn't sure what to do with the cupcake, ice cream, or presents. She didn't know that the idea was to make a mess. The candle became a spoon and the cold ice cream a matter to cry about.

I'm so grateful for friends who stepped in taking pictures, cutting cake ( so I could take pictures) and organizing food stuffs.

All and all a wonderful party.

Picking flowers

2011-05-14T12:10:00.001-07:00