We Love to Eat

I must be really lucky because so far I have two really good eaters. Since moving on from rice cereal Jack really got into it. He gets really excited when you sit him in his chair and smacks his lips until he gets his first bite. Fruits right now are his favorite (I'm assuming since they are sweet) but he has yet to reject anything. Right now Will's favorites are juice (preferrably apple) and crackers, nothing too exciting, however he does eat just about anything. Will has also taught Jack how to rip off his bib, not such a big deal with Will, but Jack is so messy that a bib is a must!

Christmas Card Reject

After what felt like an hour of trying to get a good picture of the boys this is the picture I almost put on our Christmas card. Every time I look at it, I'll be able to relive the whole debackle. Wow, I know getting a good photo of a toddler can be difficult, but add a baby who right now wants to be held all the time and you are asking for trouble. Not to worry, a perfect Christmas picture is in our future, I can feel it!

Our First Christmas Gift

The boys opened their first gift of the season. It was a cloth book of Rudolph th Red Nose Reindeer (the classic version we all grew up watching on TV) from Grandma Peppmeier.

Holiday news: Will has begun to identify Santa. Unfortunatly I think it's the beard he recoginizes because the other day while he was in a store with Doug he pointed to a man with a long beard and started shouting, "Santa, Santa!" And, if you ask Will what Santa says, he'll reply, "ho, ho, ho". It's pretty funny.

Also, I passed the Oregon Real Estate license exam on Friday. I am so thrilled and thankful to be done with all the studying.

'Tis the Season

We went to get our Christmas tree last Sunday. It had been raining on and off since Thanksgiving evening so when the rain stopped we decided to go out and get a tree. We went to Lee Farms off of 65th in Tualatin (the same place we went for pumpkins). They are running a pretty smooth operation out there. We decided to bypass the pre-cut trees and find our own. There are people from the farm driving by in tractors every 10-15 minutes, all you have to do is flag them down, they cut the tree and take it back to a staging area where they wrap up the tree in twine and put it on top of your car. Doug and I decided we like this process much better than visiting the boy scout lot (though they are very friendly) where they drag your tree across a parking lot and then anywhere from 2-10 boy scouts try and attach the tree to your car.

Don't mind the glasses Will's wearing. They are his sunglasses from this summer minus the lenses. For some reason he really likes wearing them, especially in public.

Pics from Palm Springs

Earlier this month we were in Palm Springs for my cousin Cara's wedding. The weather was absolutely amazing and warm (I cannot believe we were just there). Corey took a couple of pictures of the boys I wanted to share.

*I think we may have another golfer on our hands!

Helping Around the House

Over the past couple of days Will has become Doug's shadow. He has to be with him at all times. He'll have nothing to do with me if he knows Doug is somewhere in the house. Will is very curious about anything Doug is doing including fixing duct-work. He was so cute...he had his own screwdriver and would try and repeat anything Doug would do. The other thing Will is doing is repeating just about anything we say. The funny part is that he'll just say things out of the blue. He's saying funny things like "oh darn" when he forgets to put a toy away. My favorite is he'll say "excuse me" to Gus and Jack when trying to move pass them.

Jack's second tooth has appeared. Sorry for such a close up, but I wanted to make sure the new teeth could been seen!

Phew! It has been a busy couple of weeks. I've been studying for my real estate license and just finished all the required classes,150 hours which I crammed into 6 weeks. I'm taking the actual state exam this Friday and am looking forward to getting my license. Thanksgiving was wonderful, we spent the holiday with Doug's family and our friends Dina, Ryan and Luke Hovde. Of course after finishing a wonderful meal the realization that Christmas is right around the corner set in. So with the rest of the Thanksgiving weekend we're trying to get ready and prepare for the next couple of weeks.

Jack's First Tooth

Jack's first tooth came in on Monday, November 14 while we were in Palm Springs for my cousin's wedding. It's on the bottom on his right side. Of course I can barely see it (let alone take a picture of it) but I can feel it. So far he's been just like Will when it comes to teething, aside from drooling a bit you'd have no idea that he's been trying to cut teeth. I'll just say it again - we have the most amazing children.

The Boys

This is a pretty recent picture of the Peppmeier boys. I'm always asked (and told) who Jack and Will look like. Right now I think it's pretty much up in the air. Most people see Doug in Will (where I don't see it) and me in Jack (who really reminds me of Doug). So you decide. Once again Will is not smiling...

Halloween 2005

Trick or treat! Will was a lion and Jack was a jack-o-lantern. Halloween was pretty low key. We spent the evening with Doug's family, eating dinner and watching the boys (all four of them). Our nephews were a horse and a chicken. What I learned this year is that toddlers don't always want to wear their costumes, no matter how appealing you try and make them.

Leaves, leaves and yes, more leaves

We like to start them young at our house. By the time Will is 2 maybe he'll be able to trim the hedge. I don't know how we did it, but this house has twice the amount of leaves compared to our last place. I swear by the time you've raked or swept up all the leaves another batch has fallen. Will actually is quite handy in the yard. He's very good at putting leaves into the bag and insists on having his own rake!

Yum, Rice Cereal

Jack has been eating (more like tasting and then spitting out) rice cereal for about a week. He's a good sport and will open his mouth but he usually ends up spitting it out. He also makes an awful face when he first tastes the cereal. I tried it - it's very bland and not exciting at all. I think it's the texture he isn't sure about. Also, we purchased a second seat it's exactly like Will's. Jack's doing a great job of sitting up, occassionally he'll start leaning to one side and has a hard time straightening up. I cannot believe how big he is getting!

Pumpkin Patch 2005

We went to the pumpkin patch this weekend. I was really hoping for a picture of Will trying to pick up a pumpkin twice his size, I would have even settled for a picture of him looking for a pumpkin. No such luck. The only thing he was interested in was the great big tractor, used for the hay ride. Doug spent most of our trip holding Will and I was holding Jack so figuring out how to pick up pumpkins required some creativity. We went to Lee Farms on SW 65th. I strongly recommend it - there's lots to see and do and even though there were a lot of people it didn't seem crowded.

Look Ma, No Hands!

I'm starting to notice many of my pictures of Jack are taken while he's in the jumperoo. It looks like he lives in the thing! (I swear he doesn't!) He does enjoy it and as you can see he's started tucking his arms in, not sure if this gives him more control over the jumping, but he looked so happy...

Another thought, I realized the other day that Jack is now at the age Will was when I got pregnant. I cannot believe how quickly time has past, and it seems to have sped up since Jack arrived.

Photos of a Toddler

I'd like to start out by saying "thank you" to the person(s) who invented the digital camera. Will has become so difficult to photograph lately. I'm not sure if suddenly he's camera-shy or if he just cannot sit still (I think it's the second one). Thankfully I can continue trying for the perfect shot without worrying that I've almost used up all my film.

Ready for Take Off

We did it! Team Peppmeier flew to Oakland last weekend for my grandmother's 90th birthday. I was really curious to see how the boys would do on the plane (especially Jack since this was his first flight). More important I was really curious to see how Doug and I would manage hauling around two full size car seats and diaper bags while trying to keep the boys in the stroller. Let me tell you, the security line was a real treat. The flight to Oakland was great, my mom (Tutu) was with us and she helped Doug keep Will entertained. I lucked out because Jack fell asleep 15 minutes into the flight. On the way back it was just the four of us, and again the boys did great. We sat them next to the windows, Jack in front of Will. That way other passengers did not have to sit next to our darling children and when Will kicked the seat he was only really bothering Jack.

Six Months Today

Where has the time gone? I cannot believe we are already to this stage. Jack had his six month check up yesterday.
Here are his stats:
28 inches long (90th percentile)
18 pounds 5 ounces (60th percentile)

Jack is a busy boy - constantly moving whether making himself bounce in his bouncey chair, rolling on the floor or jumping in his jumperoo, I think he takes after his father with this constant movement. He is very social, always has a smile for anyone (including strangers and Gus). He still likes his binky and has to have his blanket snuggled up around his face and neck if he's going to sleep. He's sleeping through the night, usually going to bed around 7 or 8p and waking by 7a. He can almost sit up without being supported and if you lay him on his tummy his legs are ready for crawling it's just the upper half that isn't quite there. Jack is a constant joy. He is so darling in looks and personality, every day Doug and I are amazed and thankful we have such wonderful boys.

To the Beach and Back

Team Peppmeier decided to load up in the car and head out to the beach today. It was a bit wet and rainy, but we did have a destination and sometimes it's nice to get out of town. After leaving the house close to the time we had planned, I was feeling pretty good about myself. Here we were, being spontaneous with children and then I realized we forgot the camera (we had plenty of snacks, diapers, change of clothes, etc., but we forgot the one thing that could document this trip) so there aren't any cute pictures of the boys all bundled up in the double stroller braving the elements as Doug and I took a brisk stroll through Cannon Beach. We drove down to Manzanita to check out a possible lodging location - Coast Cabins (thank you Renee!). The grounds and the buildings looked quite lovely from the outside, we look forward to staying there. Then we drove through tiny Arch Cape and admired the homes and saw wild rabbits. We finished up in Cannon Beach, had a very late lunch, took a quick walk and headed home. It was a nice trip, I was reminded how much I enjoy where I live and more importantly how much I enjoy spending time with my boys.

So Much to Say!

Who knew a toddler would have so much to say? Just over the past few weeks Will's speech has really taken off. It seems like everyday he can say another new word. Right now my favorite is "please". He's also referring to Jack as baby, but it sounds more like "bobby". Along with the words we can understand Will has been working on his sentences. Right now they sound like gibberish, but the way he delivers it you'd think he knows exactly what he's saying.

Who Knew a Rose Bush Could be so Nasty?

This weekend while Doug and I were in Boise visiting with friends Will and Jack stayed with Grandma and Grandpa P. They had a great time (as they always do). This time Will discovered the tractor in the barn and really enjoyed (pretending) driving it. Unfortunately for the grandparents Will also took his first big tumble this weekend (we're talking blood and a goose egg, people). Turns out Will lost his balance while riding the tricycle, rode over the curb and landed in a rose bush. I didn't see the rose bush, but I think it may look better than Will.

The Haircut Disaster

The regular person I take Will to was booked for the next couple of weeks, so I decided to take him and Jack to this great place called Little Clippers in Lake Oswego. They have the best set up, a jungle gym in the middle of the salon and tons of distractions for children of all ages. When you get there they ask what movie your child would like to watch and they let them pick the "chair" they'd like to have their hair cut in. Will chose the yellow car. Will's hair was cut VERY short, but I'm not too worried since it grows fast. However, I am absolutely beside myself over Jack's hair. I asked the stylist to trim the back because it was getting long. And I thought it would be good to trim up the front so it wasn't in his eyes. I don't know what happened. One minute she was conservatively trimming, I looked away to make sure Will was staying out of trouble and the next thing I know she's giving Jack a full haircut, clippers and all. By the time I noticed what she was doing she was halfway done. I realize this may sound a bit irrational, but Jack will never have another haircut.

Out of the Crib

I've been waiting for this day and it has finally happened; Will climbed out of his crib. I realize I've been very lucky since many children climb out much earlier than 21 months. Unfortunately Will was taking a "time out" and all of a sudden I heard his feet hit the floor and him running to the door (thankfully he didn't hurt himself). I stopped him as he was trying to open the door. Then reprimanded him and put him back in the crib. He didn't climb out again. I cannot believe it's already time to start thinking about a big boy bed!

When Daddy is in Charge

We have this wonderful tradition in our house, on weekends Doug gets up when Will does. He makes sure he has breakfast and entertains him while I get some sleep (I know, I am VERY lucky!) It just so happens that Doug decided to take a picture of Will last week eating breakfast. The hat he is wearing is actually Jack's size, but he insisted on wearing it. With the golfer's bib I think he looks very Caddy Shack-like.

A Not So Glamarous Day

Today was one of those days where my love of being a mom was tested. I'd like to start out by saying I know and am very thankful that I have such mild-mannered and easy going kids. However, today was a rough day.

We started out at the doctor's office (Jack was due for two shots). We checked in, which was a bit tricky since Jack is no longer in his carrier and Will has a tendency to run away if I'm not holding on to him. I let go of Will to sign papers and thankfully he ran to the corner filled with toys. I followed him, carrying Jack past two extremely well dressed and put together pharmacutical reps. We are not more than five feet away and Jack spit up (all over) and I hear the guy say "that baby just threw up". As I'm cleaning him off (and the floor) I realize I'm offended because it was just a little spit up and apparently this person does not think Jack is the most darling creature ever.

Later when we are getting ready to leave the office Will decides he'd rather stay. He wants to turn on and put his hands in the drinking fountain. Then he wants to go back over to the toys and once there he proceeds to grab a toy from another child and makes him cry. Thankfully the mom was totally normal and didn't make a big deal out it. When I thought I had finally convinced Will to leave I notice a guy I went to high school with has just walked into the office (of course he has no children, is not married and is probably very content with his life). Anyhow, my first thought is "how fun, I can introduce him to the boys," and at that very moment Will decided he no longer wanted to stand or listen to me. I quickly turned away hoping my fellow WLHS alum did not notice me. I dragged Will over to the door and reminded him how much he enjoys opening doors (remember I'm holding Jack, the diaper bag and car keys). This did not work and Will broke into a full fledge hysterical tantrum - rolling around in the doorway then crawling back inside (why couldn't he crawl outside?). Finally I picked him up kicking and screaming and headed out to the car.

You'd think after this episode I'd head home and lock the doors. Instead we went to the mall since I needed to buy some items for the boys. We head in, the boys in the stoller, everyone is behaving and I think, we'll be quick. I was quick, unfortunately Jack decided he no longer wanted to be in the stoller, but wanted to be held and screamed until I picked him up. No big deal, this happens all the time. Unfortunely after we purchased our items I had to put him back in the stroller since I cannot push it one handed (believe me, I've tried). Of course, he starts screaming at the top of his lungs. I'm trying to get back to the car so I can take him out of the stroller and calm him down. People are parting, making room for us, Jack's face is as red as a tomato. Everyone was looking at us, and I swear, each one mumbling "poor baby". Finally I get outside and this woman in front of me is walking very slowly and I cannot pass her, eventually she turns around and asks if she can help me. I realize this is a very kind gesture, but at the same time I'm totally annoyed because I know my child and Jack just wants to be held and she's slowing us down.

Needless to say it was a rough start to the day (this all occurred before 1p). I realize situations like these are supposed to make me stronger and hopefully a better mom. Oh, the embarassement and humiliation we endure for the sake of our children.

Big Blue

I'd like to start out by admitting that I have a terrible habit of referring to objects as "big (enter color here)". But when you see Jack in his new car seat with the blue velvet-like material I cannot help myself. Yes, my child is now too big to fit in an infant car seat/carrier. Which of course means he'll be crawling and then walking in no time. Jack does not like being strapped into his new seat, but once we get moving he's pretty content looking out the window and when that gets old he usually falls asleep.

2x the Fun

We recently purchased a side by side stroller for the boys. I always said I would never do this because the strollers are usually so wide. In this case we lucked out and found one that's under 30" wide. I like this style because the boys both have the same view (though I'm learning this also means they can poke at each other). Of course, we cannot fit through narrow pathways at clothing stores, but most doorways are wide enough. My feeling is, if we cannot fit maybe we shouldn't be there.

Raider Nation

Raider Nation has suffered it's first loss of the season. However, Team Peppmeier feels very hopeful and optimistic about the games to come. Playing the first game of the year against the defending Superbowl Champs is a rough draw, but I think the team looked pretty good despite the loss.

THE Yellow Hat

It's a funny thing when your child starts to prefer or request certain clothing items. In Will's case he absolutely insists on wearing his "hat". Of course that would be the bright yellow one with a blue marlin on it, that I purchased at the GAP outlet forever ago thinking it was cute and maybe he's wear it when we were out in the sun. The best part about the whole hat deal is that Will has to put it on just right - and that would be backwards and sometimes a bit crooked. What I find so amusing is that Doug doesn't wear his hat this way, we've never put it on him this way, yet this is the way he wants it. The hardest part about it for me is that I think it makes him look so much older and at times I feel like I'm looking into the future at a teenager who could care less what I think about his clothing decisions.

Laugh Out Loud

We had another first today, Will made Jack laugh. Jack was sitting in my lap watching Will run around and bring him toys. Then Will started running with a soccer ball (Gus chasing him of course) and the way Jack kept laughing at this you would have thought it was the most hysterical site. Will also noticed he was the reason for the laughter and tried to keep Jack going. There's nothing like children's laughter, once you hear it you don't want it to stop.

Jack vs. Will

So the first major difference between the Peppmeier boys (and I'm sure there will be many more) is that Jack puts everything in his mouth. Toys, blankets, his hand, anyone's hand and of course he takes a pacifier. I know what you're thinking - all babies put things in their mouths. That's where you're wrong! Will has never put anything in his mouth. Now I'm realizing how lucky we were.

Summertime

As Labor Day draws near and school is about to start I came across this picture and realized it is the perfect summertime photo. Relaxing in the hammock with a cold drink and a well behaved toddler. How great is that?

Sunriver August 2005

This weekend the four of us enjoyed a quick family vacation at Sunriver Resort outside of Bend. I cherish the time I get to spend with my boys (Doug included) and this weekend was a perfect getaway for us. We stayed at the recently renovated Lodge Village in a suite which turned out to be the perfect size for us and all the stuff little ones require. The room was beautiful and comfortable with a deck looking out on the Meadows golf course. The room even had a small kitchen including a stove top and decent size refrigerator. If we stay there again it would be very easy to prepare a meal or two there. On Saturday we went for a walk, checked out the Sunriver Mall, drank iced coffee, went to the pool, had lunch, went back to the room for naps (Doug went to the driving range) and then Doug and I went to dinner at the Crosswater Grille while the boys stayed with a babysitter. This was our first time at the Grille and I strongly recommend it. Everything we had was delicious and the service was amazing. We had a great time.

These pictures were taken while we were at the pool. How cute is Jack?!

Picture Perfect

I think this picture is so great for two reasons: first the smile/look on Will's face is so mischievous it's priceless. Second; once again Will is touching some part of Jack's face, luckily it's just his nose, usually it's his eye. The other amazing part about this picture is that no one is cry and Will is actually staying put.

Lunch Time

This is one of those moments when you're torn between running for the camera or yelling "no". I'm sure you can tell what I chose to do. Will is learning to feed himself. He's very good at it, the only problem is that he has parents who perfer to feed him in an attempt to keep him clean. Of course Will will have nothing to do with that - as soon as his food is ready he starts pointing to his tray until you set the dish down. Also, we think we may have a southpaw on our hands, Will seems to be favoring his left hand.

All Smiles

I cannot help but gush...I have the most darling children (they are sleeping now, so of course I've already forgotten today's tantrums and fussing). I'm doing some reorganization at home and am working to keep Will and Jack's keepsakes and pictures seperated. Thankfully they don't look too much alike so the sorting has been pretty easy. Again I'm realizing how quickly time has passed. Will is almost 2, and Jack is almost 5 months! Will seems to be talking all the time. His words are becoming much clearer, and everyday it seems like he says a new word. It is so exciting and fun. Jack right now is full of smiles and is starting to laugh and giggle which is such a precious sound. He's also moving a bit, rolling to his side and slowing doing 180s and 360s on his back. It's so funning when I put him on the ground or in his crib and when I come back he's facing the opposite direction.

Cock-a-doodle-doo

I realize Jack is somewhat upset in these pictures but my goodness he has more hair than a heavy metal band. Have you ever seen such a thing? I've seriously considered referring to him as "Rooster", but I don't want that name to stick. As you can imagine the first thing people say about him is that he has so much hair. While this is very true, he has some other things going for him...he's very social, he would sit and talk with you for hours if you have the time. He's a bit of a snuggler and doesn't mind being bathed (as long as you're talking to him). He also loves eating, but likes to check in with a smile or an endearing coo every couple of minutes. Jack is a wonderful sleeper and stylish dresser (he wore plaid pants for his 3 month picture). He has a very sweet and kind soul. We are so lucky he is our son.

Bear Claws

Just recently Will has begun wanting to wear his bear claw slippers. As soon as he wakes up he starts asking for them. Of course it has been in the high 80's low 90's for the past week and you would think they are a bit uncomfortable and hot, but he does not seem to mind. He even insists on wearing them in the car. Oh, the pain we endure for the things we want!

Yee-Haw

My ten year high school reunion is this weekend. I never guessed the time would go by so quickly. When I think back over the past ten years I realize I've lived well and have accomplished quite a bit. To start...I met and married the most perfect person for me. I successfully held four different jobs in four different industries (not including the part-time retail work where the real perk was the employee discount). Doug and I purchased and fixed up our own home only to sell it and start over again with house number two. I have a wonderful family which I can always count on. I have met and have some of the most unbelievable friends. And of course my proudest accomplishment is becoming a mom. Not bad for ten years. Of course the plan for the next ten years is quite impressive and I'm sure will be just as challenging.

Sharing

I had my first experience trying to get my children to share. Of course I realize they are a little young to grasp the concept, but I tried anyways. This was Jack's first time in the jumperoo. I'd like to report that he seems to enjoy the contraption, plus it gives me a free minute or two. Only down side is that Will has decided he is NOT to big for the toy and is not very understanding about why I will not put him in it. However, Will does keep Jack entertained while playing with all the attached toys.

Yoga Anyone?

This is one of Will's famous tricks. He's been able to do it since he was about 8 months. We call it downward dog (a yoga position for those unfamiliar with the term). Anyone who practices yoga can see how flexible he is and his form is pretty good. When he was learning to stand he would get into this position and try to stand up. He was never able to do it, but tried all the time. We found it quite amusing.

Bright Eyes

I was thinking today about how much joy and pride I feel when it comes to Will and Jack. No matter what they do or how challenging they can sometimes be I am completely overwelmed by the love I have for them. I'm sure many parents share my same thoughts and believe their children are the smartest, most darling and perfect little beings to ever walk this earth. I feel truly blessed to be their mom.

Just like Daddy

Will LOVES to put other people's shoes on. It doesn't matter whose they are; mine, Doug's he even tries to get Jack's on every once and awhile. Of course in this picture not only does he have Doug's shoes on, he insisted on wearing the belt as well.

Side note: I'm noticing Will is wearing this outfit in many of my pictures. Of course anything goes with camo and it never looks dirty - you've got to love that.

Working out at the gym

Jack has become quite skilled with the baby gym. He's able to grab the animals and pull on them. Also, if positioned right he likes to kick the little guys as well. Of course the contraption is battery operated and at one time played songs and made animal noises. Of course I haven't replaced the dead batteries which has cause some confusion for Will (he loves turning the music on), but I think I may prefer the silent verison.

Dog Days of Summer

Today was exceptionally warm (95 degrees) and I wanted to share this picture perfect moment. Gus will always find the hottest spot and plant himself there. We have a small pond outside our front door and currently it gets the best sun and the rocks are nice and hot, therefore it's Gus' favorite spot.

The Helper Part II

Will is so sweet with Jack (aside from the occassional clumsy fall onto him or when he accidentally pokes him in the eye, of course). I feel blessed that so far Will is not upset or jealous about the attention Jack receives. Whenever Will hears Jack crying he always points and make the sign for baby. Will seems genuienly happy to see Jack when he wakes up in the morning and always likes to says "hi" to him when he's on the floor or in his carseat. They are off to a good start, I hope they will be good friends.

Also, feel I should explain the hat Jack is wearing - his hair was sticking straight up that day and I was hoping the hat would help flatten it out a bit. Oh, the fun we have at our house!