Monday, December 14, 2009
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Jayden and the Christmas Train
The Christmas Train
Jayden, Kallee, Alison and myself made trip this weekend to Toppenish WA, to play with trains. Not just a few trains, but many, many trains.
There were models of The Polar Express, the Hogwarts Train, and Many more. They have a set-up of an old sleeping coach and a caboose. They also allow you to ride on a train and see Santa Claus on another Train.
Here is a video of Kallee On the Christmas Train
This is a set of the Trains and Jayden watching them
We stayed there for a few hours and it was a lot of fun. Kallee did pretty well and Jayden definitely did not want to leave. It is close enough to the Tri-Cities that it makes for a very nice day drive and the kids are not totally bored in the car.
Jayden has been enjoying the season. He loves the Trains that we visit and he loved playing with the Reindeer and Beaver Bark. Grandma and Grandpa Lee joined us and we had our hands full trying to keep Jayden from disappearing into the maze of Christmas Trees. Jayden is having a hard time still with obeying rules that keep him from moving at maximum effort. I am trying to put down some simple and short rules and move up to the bigger ones. He is so excitable that he forgets sometimes where he is and what he is doing. But he is getting better about things like putting his dish away and helping to put his PJ?s and clothes on. He tries to be very helpful and is still very sweet to a pushy and overbearing little sister. He shows kindness and mercy to her, and she repays him with a sense of hero worship. They are quite a pair.
One of the great things about Jayden is definitely the way he looks at life. He is such a happy child. He wants to be happy. He wants to have an adventure every day. One of the greatest compliments was given to my wife from Kelli Templeton whose daughter Hanna works with Jayden in Sunday School. Hanna told her mother that she enjoyed Jayden so much because he is always happy and full of joy. As a parent you need to hear those types of thoughts, you need to know that your child is happy. And you need to hear it from someone like a Miss Templeton who is honest and forthright. That makes me feel good, because I want my children to see joy in life, and children that appreciate Sunday School. It was a great weekend.
Jayden, Kallee, Alison and myself made trip this weekend to Toppenish WA, to play with trains. Not just a few trains, but many, many trains.
There were models of The Polar Express, the Hogwarts Train, and Many more. They have a set-up of an old sleeping coach and a caboose. They also allow you to ride on a train and see Santa Claus on another Train.
Here is a video of Kallee On the Christmas Train
This is a set of the Trains and Jayden watching them
We stayed there for a few hours and it was a lot of fun. Kallee did pretty well and Jayden definitely did not want to leave. It is close enough to the Tri-Cities that it makes for a very nice day drive and the kids are not totally bored in the car.
Jayden has been enjoying the season. He loves the Trains that we visit and he loved playing with the Reindeer and Beaver Bark. Grandma and Grandpa Lee joined us and we had our hands full trying to keep Jayden from disappearing into the maze of Christmas Trees. Jayden is having a hard time still with obeying rules that keep him from moving at maximum effort. I am trying to put down some simple and short rules and move up to the bigger ones. He is so excitable that he forgets sometimes where he is and what he is doing. But he is getting better about things like putting his dish away and helping to put his PJ?s and clothes on. He tries to be very helpful and is still very sweet to a pushy and overbearing little sister. He shows kindness and mercy to her, and she repays him with a sense of hero worship. They are quite a pair.
One of the great things about Jayden is definitely the way he looks at life. He is such a happy child. He wants to be happy. He wants to have an adventure every day. One of the greatest compliments was given to my wife from Kelli Templeton whose daughter Hanna works with Jayden in Sunday School. Hanna told her mother that she enjoyed Jayden so much because he is always happy and full of joy. As a parent you need to hear those types of thoughts, you need to know that your child is happy. And you need to hear it from someone like a Miss Templeton who is honest and forthright. That makes me feel good, because I want my children to see joy in life, and children that appreciate Sunday School. It was a great weekend.
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Jayden and November
Jayden is learning how to be more helpful around the house. He is not as bad about cleaning up his toys and did a great job helping me set up the Christmas lights at our house. Jayden and I went a little crazy this year with the lights but it was nice to get out of the house and enjoy the outside.
He does a good job getting things ready and he loves the lights. This month we will take different ways home so he can look at other people?s houses and see how they decorated them.
Jayden has enjoyed school so far and we have been so fortunate to have Teachers in his room that adapt to Jayden and allow him to learn. They do not let him get away with much which is awesome. Jayden needs boundaries for his own good. This makes him feel secure.
Jayden had a good Thanksgiving and loved hanging out with his cousins. He enjoys being with family.
Jayden also helped make a Care Package for Operation Christmas Child. He loved doing it but was very sad when I told him we could not visit the child because he was too far away. He is a sweet boy.
Jayden, Jonah and Dawson were very helpful in working with the Lights at Grandpa and Grandma Gebers house and made sure that Grandpa Lee had a lot more lights to hang up this year at the Grandma Lee?s House.
Jayden helped decorate His and Kallee?s Christmas Tree and loves playing with the Planes and Trains ornaments.
He loves this season of lights and frolic and parties and fun. He is the perfect kids for Christmas time because everything is exciting and he gets so amped by all that is done. It is great to have him around during this season.
The next Part is included in both blogs (Kallee?s and Jayden?s) so you only have to read it once:
In a time and a season where joy and happiness along with stress and spending combine with a spice of reverence, a dash of love, and a whole lot of prayer and praise to the Lord is the time and place for Remembrance and Thanksgiving.
It was one of the best years I can remember. The kids have grown and have become little people. Kallee has been a huge blessing and has made life very enjoyable. She has so many great facial expressions that make me smile when I see them. Both Jayden and Kallee have been so much fun to take places because they love adventure. We have been so fortunate to have traveled to great places this year with the kids and family. Here are some of the best times and joyful places that I can remember:
? Thomas the Tank Engine in Hood River
? Being on the Boats of the Hawaiian Chieftan in Pasco
? Easter at Both Grandparents
? Kallee?s First Birthday and the LadyBug Cake
? Jayden?s Birthday and the Pin the Tail on the Thomas the Tank Engine
? Bar-B-ques and playing at the water parks
? Lake Chelan?(even being sick they were so cute and fun)
? My 40th Surprise birthday (Alison that meant so much to me, thank you)
? Vegas (What happens in veags,, unless this year and you are the Youngs)
? The new classroom that Jayden is in, the apple tree room and the excellent teachers
? Miss Tara with both Jayden and Kallee
? Halloween and the awesome costumes and the bundles of Candy Jayden came home with.
? Thanksgiving with Family
? The times that Jayden and Kallee have spent with their Cousins? they are great with our kids and make Jayden and Kallee very happy
? The ?Should have been a No-Hitter? 1-hitter with Dick
? Our Summer Lunches at Rosie?s Diner
? My father?s tender love and care for our daughter.
? Both sets of grandparents for all they do for Jayden and Kallee
? Boyd and Emily inviting us over for fun and water play and 4th of July which was great this year except for the fireworks.
But the best, very best part of the year was going to the beach and the Zoo. I do not think I could have asked for a better time. The kids were so in awe of everything and loved walking around and enjoying the scenes. The Zoo was exciting, the Beach was calm and restful and Seaside provided so many fun things to do including, trains, merry-go-rounds, visit to the doctor, the very lovely suite and all the amenities, the beach, which really was so fun watching Kallee dig and Jayden running in and out of the ocean, the food, the taffy, the old time soda, the overall feel of a true vacation. When you can go on and trip and when everyone leaves thinking that they could stay a few more days,,, that is a true vacation. So many great memories this year? so much fun, 2009 was one to remember.
He does a good job getting things ready and he loves the lights. This month we will take different ways home so he can look at other people?s houses and see how they decorated them.
Jayden has enjoyed school so far and we have been so fortunate to have Teachers in his room that adapt to Jayden and allow him to learn. They do not let him get away with much which is awesome. Jayden needs boundaries for his own good. This makes him feel secure.
Jayden had a good Thanksgiving and loved hanging out with his cousins. He enjoys being with family.
Jayden also helped make a Care Package for Operation Christmas Child. He loved doing it but was very sad when I told him we could not visit the child because he was too far away. He is a sweet boy.
Jayden, Jonah and Dawson were very helpful in working with the Lights at Grandpa and Grandma Gebers house and made sure that Grandpa Lee had a lot more lights to hang up this year at the Grandma Lee?s House.
Jayden helped decorate His and Kallee?s Christmas Tree and loves playing with the Planes and Trains ornaments.
He loves this season of lights and frolic and parties and fun. He is the perfect kids for Christmas time because everything is exciting and he gets so amped by all that is done. It is great to have him around during this season.
The next Part is included in both blogs (Kallee?s and Jayden?s) so you only have to read it once:
In a time and a season where joy and happiness along with stress and spending combine with a spice of reverence, a dash of love, and a whole lot of prayer and praise to the Lord is the time and place for Remembrance and Thanksgiving.
It was one of the best years I can remember. The kids have grown and have become little people. Kallee has been a huge blessing and has made life very enjoyable. She has so many great facial expressions that make me smile when I see them. Both Jayden and Kallee have been so much fun to take places because they love adventure. We have been so fortunate to have traveled to great places this year with the kids and family. Here are some of the best times and joyful places that I can remember:
? Thomas the Tank Engine in Hood River
? Being on the Boats of the Hawaiian Chieftan in Pasco
? Easter at Both Grandparents
? Kallee?s First Birthday and the LadyBug Cake
? Jayden?s Birthday and the Pin the Tail on the Thomas the Tank Engine
? Bar-B-ques and playing at the water parks
? Lake Chelan?(even being sick they were so cute and fun)
? My 40th Surprise birthday (Alison that meant so much to me, thank you)
? Vegas (What happens in veags,, unless this year and you are the Youngs)
? The new classroom that Jayden is in, the apple tree room and the excellent teachers
? Miss Tara with both Jayden and Kallee
? Halloween and the awesome costumes and the bundles of Candy Jayden came home with.
? Thanksgiving with Family
? The times that Jayden and Kallee have spent with their Cousins? they are great with our kids and make Jayden and Kallee very happy
? The ?Should have been a No-Hitter? 1-hitter with Dick
? Our Summer Lunches at Rosie?s Diner
? My father?s tender love and care for our daughter.
? Both sets of grandparents for all they do for Jayden and Kallee
? Boyd and Emily inviting us over for fun and water play and 4th of July which was great this year except for the fireworks.
But the best, very best part of the year was going to the beach and the Zoo. I do not think I could have asked for a better time. The kids were so in awe of everything and loved walking around and enjoying the scenes. The Zoo was exciting, the Beach was calm and restful and Seaside provided so many fun things to do including, trains, merry-go-rounds, visit to the doctor, the very lovely suite and all the amenities, the beach, which really was so fun watching Kallee dig and Jayden running in and out of the ocean, the food, the taffy, the old time soda, the overall feel of a true vacation. When you can go on and trip and when everyone leaves thinking that they could stay a few more days,,, that is a true vacation. So many great memories this year? so much fun, 2009 was one to remember.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Jayden and Halloween
This was one of the best days ever. Jayden had a wonderful time at the Harvest Party. Jayden climbed to the top of the hay pyramid, shot the corn cannon, made a jack-o-lantern, rode the hay ride through the pumpkin patch, observed the kangaroo/wallaby mix, zebra, turkeys, pigs, goats, donkey, and goat. Jayden led us through the corn maze where we ended up taking "short cuts" and ended back at the beginning in time for a quick potty break. Jayden and I could have had fun in there for over 30 minutes to an hour... He loves the problem solving and he loves to be able to run freely. It is a great time. He figured out the hail bail puzzle one in one minute flat.
Halloween night was an absolute blast... running from house to house finding so much candy... then tackling cousins and watching a charlie brown halloween special, the great pumpkin.
I think that this tradition of hitting up these corn mazes and harvest festivals will continue in our family. Someday mommy and daddy will not be allowed to go because we will "cramp" his style and he will go after our bedtime,,,, but for now Mommy is the best friend a boy can have... and daddy drives him to Mcd's so that is cool too.
Click here to see more picsJayden and the Fall
Jayden has had a tough past two months. He has been inundated with many different ailments and has survived one of the nastiest flu viruses around. (Not sure if it was swine flu, but it sure felt like it to him). He has missed many days of school and has been ill most of the past two months.
But he is finally healthy and at the right time too. Because it is getting into the holiday seasons.
Jayden has been doing great at school and it has to do with his new classroom. His teacher are so good and have seen what Jayden can do and how smart he can be. They also recognize that Jayden has A LOT of energy and do not allow him to get bored.
Jayden likes going to school and especially likes Fridays when he can play with legos. He likes building thing and legos are right up his alley. Jayden is also becoming quite the cook, helping mommy make dinner many times and is getting to the point where he could start making dinner himself... in about 3 years or so..
Jayden loves also to ride his bikes as he is getting so good. He rarely falls now and he is getting to the point were we need to get our bikes ship shape to keep up with him. Though he is not quite ready for the training wheels to come off.
He has had an issue with the word No. He likes to say it alot. We are working with on that and not telling mommy No. He is getting better and that is all we ask. He is such a great brother as he includes Kallee in things and wants her to be happy. I will talk more later and add pics.
Here is to a Healthy November...
But he is finally healthy and at the right time too. Because it is getting into the holiday seasons.
Jayden has been doing great at school and it has to do with his new classroom. His teacher are so good and have seen what Jayden can do and how smart he can be. They also recognize that Jayden has A LOT of energy and do not allow him to get bored.
Jayden likes going to school and especially likes Fridays when he can play with legos. He likes building thing and legos are right up his alley. Jayden is also becoming quite the cook, helping mommy make dinner many times and is getting to the point where he could start making dinner himself... in about 3 years or so..
Jayden loves also to ride his bikes as he is getting so good. He rarely falls now and he is getting to the point were we need to get our bikes ship shape to keep up with him. Though he is not quite ready for the training wheels to come off.
He has had an issue with the word No. He likes to say it alot. We are working with on that and not telling mommy No. He is getting better and that is all we ask. He is such a great brother as he includes Kallee in things and wants her to be happy. I will talk more later and add pics.
Here is to a Healthy November...
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Jayden and His Fall
Jayden has had an interesting last month. We took Jayden to two different doctors this past month because of issues with his breathing and allergies. Their was some good news and bad news.
Jayden has food allergies. The allergies are in the Nuts arena. He has severe reactions to Tree Nuts and also has some reactions to peanuts as well. We have had to learn to use an eppe pin. We have had to leave them all over the place, at his school, his grandparents, anywhere he frequents a lot.
It is hard for a parent to see a child limited in what he can do or what he can eat. It is also something that you have to think about all the time. When Jayden gets older and understands this allergy it will get easier, but for now we always have to be on guard to make sure that Jayden is fine. The good news is that many of the schools and churches are aware of the severity on the allergy. The school has him sit with another person at lunch with a similar allergy and at church he is designated with special tag to show people his allergy.
The other issue for poor Jayden is that he is attracted to viruses and gets ill very easily. He got sick the first week in September and was down and out for a while.
When Jayden gets sick he rarely shows an outward appearance of being sick. We have to watch for the signs. This time the big sign is when he projectile vomited all over the family room at my parents. Not very subtle, but effective. He had weezing an coughing the next night and could not sleep. His breathing gets so labored and he chest fills with fluids very quickly. We had to get him a Nebulizer Machine and he has been prescribed steroids take for his lungs.
But with Jayden, something like this will not slow him down. He will not be upset by it or be affected by it. He will just go on living life as a happy little boy.
I do know that he is enjoying his day at school a lot more this year. He loves playing with the Legos and he seems to be transitioning into the standards set by the teachers well. At least I hope that is true.
As for playing, which of course is Jayden's favorite thing to do. He loves riding his bikes, he enjoys playing with his trains and he is starting to want Kallee around him so that he can play with her too.... They are starting to become quite a little pair.
Jayden has food allergies. The allergies are in the Nuts arena. He has severe reactions to Tree Nuts and also has some reactions to peanuts as well. We have had to learn to use an eppe pin. We have had to leave them all over the place, at his school, his grandparents, anywhere he frequents a lot.
It is hard for a parent to see a child limited in what he can do or what he can eat. It is also something that you have to think about all the time. When Jayden gets older and understands this allergy it will get easier, but for now we always have to be on guard to make sure that Jayden is fine. The good news is that many of the schools and churches are aware of the severity on the allergy. The school has him sit with another person at lunch with a similar allergy and at church he is designated with special tag to show people his allergy.
The other issue for poor Jayden is that he is attracted to viruses and gets ill very easily. He got sick the first week in September and was down and out for a while.
When Jayden gets sick he rarely shows an outward appearance of being sick. We have to watch for the signs. This time the big sign is when he projectile vomited all over the family room at my parents. Not very subtle, but effective. He had weezing an coughing the next night and could not sleep. His breathing gets so labored and he chest fills with fluids very quickly. We had to get him a Nebulizer Machine and he has been prescribed steroids take for his lungs.
But with Jayden, something like this will not slow him down. He will not be upset by it or be affected by it. He will just go on living life as a happy little boy.
I do know that he is enjoying his day at school a lot more this year. He loves playing with the Legos and he seems to be transitioning into the standards set by the teachers well. At least I hope that is true.
As for playing, which of course is Jayden's favorite thing to do. He loves riding his bikes, he enjoys playing with his trains and he is starting to want Kallee around him so that he can play with her too.... They are starting to become quite a little pair.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Jayden time with the Animals and the Beach
Sometimes, you talk about something so much that there are these high expectations. And these expectations when making them with your family become HUGE. So huge that you are worried that it will fall well short.
Those were the expectations of our last family adventure. An Adventure to Portland and the beach. And I have to admit I was very surprised how it went.
First our Daughter Kallee who is not a fan of trips, did awesome and slept most of the way. Next our son who travels awesomely, did is normal awesome best. We stopped at the McD's in Troutdale which was great, big toys and had a good time. Then we went shopping at the outlet mall. (Boring for everyone but Grandma Lee and Mommy). And then hit the hotel. We ate at BJ's Pizza. In Janzen Beach and it was great food, I love their Pizza and their atmosphere and I love that the have Pizzokies. Good stuff... But Kallee, who thrilled all by saying hi and flirting with everyone in the front was losing it in the restaurant, so I had to take her out. Jayden, who did not get a nap in was also in hyperland.. so both went down when we got back to the hotel.
It was Alison's Birthday so Kallee and Jayden got her Starbucks cards and Money for a new Purse... they are very smart Children. She also got Ann Taylor from the Lee's as well as cake decoration supplies and a chance to take classes.
The next day was the Portland Zoo. It was awesome.
Jayden had a blast as did Kallee and Mommy and Daddy. The animals on the other hand looked like many of them could use a big nap. Speaking of missing naps... Jayden did lose it at about 2 and was ready to go. He was over stimulated and started crying, but came around and was back to his ole self by the time we left. He use the potty a lot at the park and was very good about going now in public places. He is getting trained... yea. A big thank you to Grandma and Grandpa Lee for hanging out with us those first two days... They were saviors to my sanity.
Jayden and Kallee both fell asleep on the way to Seaside OR. That was a good thing because by the time we got settled in at the hotel. (The Rivertide Suites.. Check out the size of our room!! )
It was time to hit the road for dinner... or was it..... Opps...
Jayden was hungry so he got up on the counter in the kitchen and ate a raisin, oatmeal cookie with walnuts.. The problem was he is allergic to walnuts,, the other problem. we did not know.,
Opps.... so he started to cry right of f the bat and then he started to slurr. Then Alison look at his mouth and it was starting to blister... that is when Jayden, Mommy and I hit the road to the emergency room. Thank goodness for the Providence Heath Hospital in Seaside.. They saw that it was a food allergy reaction and Gave our son Benadryl, and respiratory services, an epie shot, steroids, and an IV... Dr. Opie,,, who was on staff at the time was awesome as were the nursing and specialist there. I cannot thank them enough for all they did in making us feel important and taking such great care of our son.
I have to say they were also very impressed on how cool and tough our son is. Alison was a little frightened and going crazy on the ride there.,.. But Jayden was calm saying things like... My mouth is swollen... I like the Doctor,,., Yes mommy I can still breathe,,, see.... He was drooling and breaking out everywhere and was very tough. Daddy was smart enough to get the movie player out of the car and he watched Finding Nemo, and get this, the room he was in... was decorated in Nemo stuff and he got Nemo stickers. He did not cry with the shots or the breathing of the steriods or having to drink all the drugs.. he only said he was cold when the saline went into the IV.. yes no crying with the IV,, in fact when they took it out, he wanted them to put it back in so he could wear the bandaging again... I love my son...
Grandpa and Grandma Gebers saved us with Kallee as we were at the Hospital for 3 hours. It was a scary expereince... but we so lucky it happened there with so much help and so quickly the nurses and doctors worked, it was a blessing how it worked out.
Jayden recovered in great fashion and we were off to the beach. That was so much fun Kallee and Jayden just played and played. Jayden played with some trucks we picked up at Safeway and he drove them here and there and near and far and into the surf and out of the surf and threw them into the surf and watched them come back to him. One day he wanted to jump waves with me and we could literally go out over 60 yards into the Ocean and it did not go over Jayden's Shoulders. We jump and splashed and got pulled around by the waves and had a blast.
Jayden loved the little train that he could drive and ride and he wanted to much to ride the carousel and just stay down in Seaside forever. The food was good and fun, though one of the best places to eat was very slow, but the food was very good. The Hotel was a perfect place to go for naps and hang out. Grandma Gebers and Mommy went shopping while Kallee, Jayden and I took naps to get ready for the nightlife.
The whole trip, even the bumps, was a complete success. I cannot wait to go to Seaside again. I Love our time there. I know that Jayden did and I know that Jayden wants to go back and we will, he had a great time.
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Jayden hanging out the the Gebers
Jayden got to stay with his grandparents (the Gebers) last week as Alison and I went on a trip to Vegas. Jayden had a wonderful time with the Gebers. He went to pools and played at his cousin's. Jayden drew and etched letters and all in all had a wonderful time (and pretty sure he did not miss us too much).
He has been fortunate to get to spend a lot of time with his cousins this summer. Madeline, Jonah and Dawson treat Kallee and Jayden very well, and they all play together great. We are fortunate to spend a lot of time during the summer with Boyd and Emily's family as they always entertain very well.
Madeline had her Birthday last week and it was perfect. I was still feeling the effects of the 100 plus weather, but not Jayden. I think he spent 4 hours outside and only 20 minutes in. He was running and playing and getting wet and having the time of his life.
As for potty training, well it is getting easier and easier. I have to thank my mother and father for all they have done. Dad and Mom got Jayden to go to the bathroom at parks and at restaurants and I have had him use the urinal at Barnes and Nobles and he is getting closer. He still has problems with number 2, but the poop on the yard is lessening and he is starting to go to the toilet without prompting much more.
Grandpa and Grandma Lee also did me a huge favor Tuesday as I got "a day of rest" while they had Jayden and Kallee and had lots of fun. Jayden came home and said he was very happy and liked it very much.
His vocabulary is getting better and he definitely has no problem making quick friends at playgrounds and the water parks.
Today is mow the lawn day and Jayden will drive his lawnmower and I will drive mine.
Time for more fun...
He has been fortunate to get to spend a lot of time with his cousins this summer. Madeline, Jonah and Dawson treat Kallee and Jayden very well, and they all play together great. We are fortunate to spend a lot of time during the summer with Boyd and Emily's family as they always entertain very well.
Madeline had her Birthday last week and it was perfect. I was still feeling the effects of the 100 plus weather, but not Jayden. I think he spent 4 hours outside and only 20 minutes in. He was running and playing and getting wet and having the time of his life.
As for potty training, well it is getting easier and easier. I have to thank my mother and father for all they have done. Dad and Mom got Jayden to go to the bathroom at parks and at restaurants and I have had him use the urinal at Barnes and Nobles and he is getting closer. He still has problems with number 2, but the poop on the yard is lessening and he is starting to go to the toilet without prompting much more.
Grandpa and Grandma Lee also did me a huge favor Tuesday as I got "a day of rest" while they had Jayden and Kallee and had lots of fun. Jayden came home and said he was very happy and liked it very much.
His vocabulary is getting better and he definitely has no problem making quick friends at playgrounds and the water parks.
Today is mow the lawn day and Jayden will drive his lawnmower and I will drive mine.
Time for more fun...
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Jayden's Time to Shine in July... Biking and Playing
Jayden has had a full summer so far. It got even better when his father (that is me) turned 40. Yep a big 40... He got to ride on his new bike... not me but Jayden.... 
Click here to see a great Video of Jayden riding his bike Complete with a FIRETRUCK!!
As a forty year old I was supposed to fell different, well too late for that. Trying to do Tennis with a one year old and a three year made me old about 6 months ago. Today I feel not a day over 50..... that is what Kevin Howes son thinks my age is... it is okay.. I feel old... so that is why I get nice young presents like a bicycle for myself.
The next day Jayden went over to Grandma and Grandpa Lee's and Jayden got to ride all over Richland and loved it.
Click here to see a great Video of Jayden riding his bike Complete with a FIRETRUCK!!
The day after my son gave me another present by vacuuming the downstairs. 
The 4th of July was fantastic as we went over to Uncle Boyd and Aunt Emily's house to play with the Gebers, the Sargents, the Biglin's, The Howes, The Youngs and of course The Looney's.
It was a time for water and play and eating and laughing and talking. It was very fun. We also had a fire near our house and Jayden was afraid of the fireworks he had bought, so was his mother... I think I am done with fireworks...
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Jayden and a day with Thomas the Tank Engine
Jayden, Alison and I traveled to Hood River to see someone very special. Someone that Jayden has lived with for many years. Starting with movies at Grandma and Grandpa Lee's to our friends Kevin, LeAnn, Nolan and Mason starting Jayden with huge train set... to Daddy going crazy on E-Bay.
For movies of the trip click here
For the Pictures Click Here
Jayden loves trains Thomas and Percy are his friends. So a couple of Saturdays ago Jayden got to ride on Thomas. He was very happy.
They had many things for Jayden to play with and it was a wonderful experience. The downtown part of Hood River was fun to explore and so we did. The shops were fun to window shop on and Jayden found the toy store very enjoyable.
We then headed down to the train station for our day with Thomas. We started with a Nice tattoo session where Jayden picked Percy as his tattoo of choice (Percy is my favorite, Alison likes Salty). We then blew bubbles and headed over to the haybail maze. Jayden solved it with ease, including cheating a little to go faster.. We then hit the jumpy castle and ended up at the animals petting zoo.
Jayden fed goats, sheep, cows, rams making sure that all of the animals were being fed.
We then took a 30 minute tour on the train... We stayed in Claribel. It was nice, Jayden stuck his head out and saw Thomas. We took pictures of Jayden with Thomas and I have to say, they trip was a nice little ride.
Jayden then took more pictures with Thomas and then Sir Toppenhat.
This was one of the better adventures we had with Jayden and we cannot wait till next year.
For movies of the trip click here
For the Pictures Click Here
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Grandma being cool by taking us to a tree house
We went over to Jerry Marshall's this afternoon to check out the tree
house he built for his grandsons several years ago. Jayden's comment
was that this was a "cool" tree house. Attached are a couple photos of
the tree house along with a couple from our walk around the block.
house he built for his grandsons several years ago. Jayden's comment
was that this was a "cool" tree house. Attached are a couple photos of
the tree house along with a couple from our walk around the block.
Thank you Grandma Lee for the fun times.. he wants mommy to build him one... now if we only had a tree....
Friday, June 19, 2009
Jayden and the pirate ship
Jayden had a great time at the beginning of June going to see the pirate ships in the port of Pasco. He was thrilled to see the big ships. We got to tour them and Jayden got to sit behind the wheel of one and at like he was a captain.
Jayden also got to ride in the police boat... all in all a wonderful day. I think that Jayden would want to stay around the boats all day. I was afraid we would end up in the river.
Jayden is out of school now. He is pretty happy so far hanging out with Me and Kallee Boo Boo's. I think though he is looking forward to the apple tree room next year. But he still keeps saying he wants to stay home with daddy... crazy kid.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Jayden went to his first movie... IN 3D!!
There was good and bad in this situation. First of all I had to rent out the whole theater... My son can be a distraction while jumping over seats and running in the aisles and moving positions every 4 minutes.
The truth is that we were the only 3 people in the theater. We went to monsters versus aliens. It was in 3D. That did not work very well because Jayden had no Interest in keeping the glasses on. The movie was well somewhat slow which did not help.
But Jayden sat through most of it no problem. It gives us hope for the next time we go.
Here is more good news. We do not have to spend 21 dollars on food, because he is not really interested in popcorn or much anything else... pop on the other hand... very much interested.
Tuesday's are one dollar pop and popcorn day. That will be movie day.
Overall it was good... though the last 5 minutes he was already out the door.... we had to trick him by telling him to sit in as many chairs as possible.... hence the joy we both had when we were the only 3 people in the place.
Good times.
The truth is that we were the only 3 people in the theater. We went to monsters versus aliens. It was in 3D. That did not work very well because Jayden had no Interest in keeping the glasses on. The movie was well somewhat slow which did not help.
But Jayden sat through most of it no problem. It gives us hope for the next time we go.
Here is more good news. We do not have to spend 21 dollars on food, because he is not really interested in popcorn or much anything else... pop on the other hand... very much interested.
Tuesday's are one dollar pop and popcorn day. That will be movie day.
Overall it was good... though the last 5 minutes he was already out the door.... we had to trick him by telling him to sit in as many chairs as possible.... hence the joy we both had when we were the only 3 people in the place.
Good times.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Jayden's brand new digs
Dear Daddy & Mommy . . .
"Look at my wonderful new bed!" That's what I told Papa and Nana when they opened the door to my new bedroom. I was just laying there enjoying it when they discovered where I went. Of course, I have a big teddybear there now to keep me company. . . and I slept till 6 o'clock this morning before Molly woke me up. She likes to meow in the morning.
I'll be happy when you're feeling better mommy.
Missing you both . . .
Love - Jayden
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Jayden Resting from a long hard day @ Grandma and Grandpa Lee's
Kallee charmed Tara and those of us in the office yesterday; she did her thing - got right down and walked! I had quilting night at the church yesterday so Jayden sat in Papa's lap and read books with him among other things. He made it clear that it was "guys' time together. He's so funny; he picks either one or the other of us and then makes sure everyone knows his/her role at the moment.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Jayden is learning no
Jayden likes to say no a lot. We have had discussions about what he wants and does not want. I do not like that he says no to what we ask, but I am happy that he is responding. I understand why he says it, but what I have to get through to him is that he can be upset and be not happy, but he still needs to pick up his room. `
He loved going to church which is a great sign... the past few times before this he was not as excited, so this is a good step.
Jayden helped plant some red grass as well as a tomato plant and he loves to drive his Quad while I mow the lawn. He also still takes out his lawn mower and follows me around with that too. He really loves being outside. We try to get him out as much as possible.
Alison has been taking the kids for walks at night and I know that Jayden loves it.
Jayden is still a Thomas that tank engine lover. You should watch and listen as he is playing out stories and making Thomas, Percy, Diesel, Murdoch, Toby, Lady, Arry, Bert, Bertie, Alfie, Trevor, Fergus, Annie, and Clarabel come alive in his mind. It is a wonder to watch. He will kind of let you play but he makes the rules when it comes to the island of Sodor...
He loved going to church which is a great sign... the past few times before this he was not as excited, so this is a good step.
Jayden helped plant some red grass as well as a tomato plant and he loves to drive his Quad while I mow the lawn. He also still takes out his lawn mower and follows me around with that too. He really loves being outside. We try to get him out as much as possible.
Alison has been taking the kids for walks at night and I know that Jayden loves it.
Jayden is still a Thomas that tank engine lover. You should watch and listen as he is playing out stories and making Thomas, Percy, Diesel, Murdoch, Toby, Lady, Arry, Bert, Bertie, Alfie, Trevor, Fergus, Annie, and Clarabel come alive in his mind. It is a wonder to watch. He will kind of let you play but he makes the rules when it comes to the island of Sodor...
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Jayden's 3rd Birthday
The Birthday was filled with Thomas the tank engine. It was a great time and all that came got into festivities...
The Cake was awesome and Jayden plays with all the toys a lot. Since he was sick the whole next week I was thrilled with the presents as they kept him occupied inside..
My Son the Virus Catcher
Jayden could be the toughest person I know. I know he is only three but so far he is not a whiner. I know this because if I had what happened to Jayden last weekend. I would have whined loud and hard.
Jayden did not though and you know why, it is not his style. On Friday Alison and I were discussing how Jayden had had a tough week at school and I heard him cough. I told Alison that Jayden might be S-I-C-K. Jayden has this tendency to be disagreeable with authority when he is not feeling well. I think that is because his barriers that he has up come down and he tells people what he is really thinking about them.
But that will be a discussion for another blog.
Anyway, Saturday Morning he threw up and then he and I went downstairs and watch the movie cars. That is what we do every time he gets sick. I thought he was feeling better by midday, but again I was wrong. Luckily Alison bought two new and very good thermometers on her way home from work. We tried it on him and not very well, (telling a 3 year old to keep it under their tongue even for 6 seconds is a chore). None the less when the thermometer said 103.5 we were in the car in 3 minutes. The place we took Jayden to was somewhat nonchalant getting him in to see someone, because once again, Jayden gave them the impression of someone "not very sick", and we must be "overly protective" parents. It was not until they got a temp of over 104 did they take our boy seriously. (This was after we have given him both Tylenol and Motrin dispersed correctly over the past 20 hours). They tried to cool him down and gave him some Tylenol and wraped cool sheets around him. It was the first time that I saw fear and tears from being sick in my sons eyes... That hurt bad.... It was the first time I held his hand helpless to be anything but a support.
The doctors came in and told us that we could interchange Tylenol and Motrin to keep the fever down... (really huh).
They gave me the "I am the doctor please do not do the parent diagnose thing" when I told him that he might have an ear infection. He said that not necessarily does it meant that because Kallee had one that Jayden would have one... Trying to tell the doctor dad that he was a little over his head. He looked in the ear and "low and behold" Jayden had an ear infection. Lets just say that I saw my son go for his ear earlier in the day so I may not be a doctor but I know signs.
So Jayden was happy because for some reason he likes going to the doctor and even though he hates the taste,, he is ready to take the "I sick, I need Medicine" medicine.
This week he even took a pen light flashlight and told Kallee to open her mouth and say ahh. As the ever trying to impress her older brother Kallee opened her mouth and said "ahhh". They are so bright.
So does this mean that I have a future doctor as a son... that would be okay only if he can sit on a curve and bang it into right center for a double.
Jayden did not though and you know why, it is not his style. On Friday Alison and I were discussing how Jayden had had a tough week at school and I heard him cough. I told Alison that Jayden might be S-I-C-K. Jayden has this tendency to be disagreeable with authority when he is not feeling well. I think that is because his barriers that he has up come down and he tells people what he is really thinking about them.
But that will be a discussion for another blog.
Anyway, Saturday Morning he threw up and then he and I went downstairs and watch the movie cars. That is what we do every time he gets sick. I thought he was feeling better by midday, but again I was wrong. Luckily Alison bought two new and very good thermometers on her way home from work. We tried it on him and not very well, (telling a 3 year old to keep it under their tongue even for 6 seconds is a chore). None the less when the thermometer said 103.5 we were in the car in 3 minutes. The place we took Jayden to was somewhat nonchalant getting him in to see someone, because once again, Jayden gave them the impression of someone "not very sick", and we must be "overly protective" parents. It was not until they got a temp of over 104 did they take our boy seriously. (This was after we have given him both Tylenol and Motrin dispersed correctly over the past 20 hours). They tried to cool him down and gave him some Tylenol and wraped cool sheets around him. It was the first time that I saw fear and tears from being sick in my sons eyes... That hurt bad.... It was the first time I held his hand helpless to be anything but a support.
The doctors came in and told us that we could interchange Tylenol and Motrin to keep the fever down... (really huh).
They gave me the "I am the doctor please do not do the parent diagnose thing" when I told him that he might have an ear infection. He said that not necessarily does it meant that because Kallee had one that Jayden would have one... Trying to tell the doctor dad that he was a little over his head. He looked in the ear and "low and behold" Jayden had an ear infection. Lets just say that I saw my son go for his ear earlier in the day so I may not be a doctor but I know signs.
So Jayden was happy because for some reason he likes going to the doctor and even though he hates the taste,, he is ready to take the "I sick, I need Medicine" medicine.
This week he even took a pen light flashlight and told Kallee to open her mouth and say ahh. As the ever trying to impress her older brother Kallee opened her mouth and said "ahhh". They are so bright.
So does this mean that I have a future doctor as a son... that would be okay only if he can sit on a curve and bang it into right center for a double.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Thomas the Tank Engine and Jayden
This is Jayden's tribute to his favorite pastime. Thomas the tank engine...
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
From Jayden...
Hi Mommy!
See my stones! I've been very busy this afternoon digging and playing
with my trucks - after, of course, a ride around the block with Gramma
in the wind! I stopped and showed her all the interesting things along
the way. Oh my - there's so much to see in this world.
At school I played with Aaron and Chase in the Commons and we put
together a BIG triangular block house that we could ride like a horse or
get inside like a house. What fun we had! And before I left, I listened
to some dinosaur songs on the tape player after a few cups of water.
Thank you for staying home with me yesterday! I LOVE my home; it's my
favorite place to be and it's even better when you and daddy are there
to keep me company.
See you soon . . .
Love, Jayden
Sunday, February 22, 2009
A Month of Illness and Connection
Jayden and I were blessed in and odd way this past month. We got to spend a lot of time together because he has been fighting some type of illness for the past month or so. Even now as I am typing this Jayden has been battling vomit and diarrhea. He got up at 5 this morning after throwing up twice in bed. Last month he had to fight off pneumonia, and a cold. He has had steroids and anti-biotic's for a while.
But it did give us time to hang out. It was fun, most of the time. He was even willing to stay inside which means that he knew he was sick.
The two nights that were the worst was when Jayden woke up to the point of coughing and throwing up pure phlegm. I had him in the shower all night and then we watched cars at 4 in the morning. Jayden was a trooper through the whole time and even started to like the meds. He also got his first x-ray.. which of course was not very easy with my very active son.
Jayden and I played a lot of Thomas the train and Geo-Tracks. We set up the Hot wheels set and found out that the Shelby GT was the fastest car.
He also has develop a great relationship with one of his teachers a Ms Tara who does his hair and I must say, he looks very sharp. I believe that he is the stud bad boy of the class and the girls of the class like to hang with him. That is how he rolls. He did get a lot of Valentines from them.
Jayden is still growing and his vocabulary is expanding all the time. One time we were leaving Red Robin and Jayden saw something and My father commented on it and he say "huh, that is weird" (an Alison Statement), He has also told me to "hold on" which is totally me.
He know azul is blue and Rojo is red. He can tell time a little as he knows what 5, 6, 7, 8, 8, 2, 3 and 1 are by looking at them. (he for some reason does not like to regognize the number 4). And sometimes you can even get him to count to 25.
But Jayden is still Jayden and if you ask him a question he deems insignificant he will ignore it.
Also, kudos to Jayden as he is now playing with Kallee... yea!. Though he still will not share his trains with her.
But it did give us time to hang out. It was fun, most of the time. He was even willing to stay inside which means that he knew he was sick.
The two nights that were the worst was when Jayden woke up to the point of coughing and throwing up pure phlegm. I had him in the shower all night and then we watched cars at 4 in the morning. Jayden was a trooper through the whole time and even started to like the meds. He also got his first x-ray.. which of course was not very easy with my very active son.
Jayden and I played a lot of Thomas the train and Geo-Tracks. We set up the Hot wheels set and found out that the Shelby GT was the fastest car.
He also has develop a great relationship with one of his teachers a Ms Tara who does his hair and I must say, he looks very sharp. I believe that he is the stud bad boy of the class and the girls of the class like to hang with him. That is how he rolls. He did get a lot of Valentines from them.
Jayden is still growing and his vocabulary is expanding all the time. One time we were leaving Red Robin and Jayden saw something and My father commented on it and he say "huh, that is weird" (an Alison Statement), He has also told me to "hold on" which is totally me.
He know azul is blue and Rojo is red. He can tell time a little as he knows what 5, 6, 7, 8, 8, 2, 3 and 1 are by looking at them. (he for some reason does not like to regognize the number 4). And sometimes you can even get him to count to 25.
But Jayden is still Jayden and if you ask him a question he deems insignificant he will ignore it.
Also, kudos to Jayden as he is now playing with Kallee... yea!. Though he still will not share his trains with her.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Why Parents are not perfect and why our children forgive us
Why say that I am not perfect in the title... because I am not. I have many faults, but I hate that have faults when it comes to my children. Last week showed that I have lots to learn.
Last Sunday night Jayden could not sleep because he had fluid building up in his lungs. Alison steamed the bathroom and we put a lot of vicks on his feet... (PS that really works well, the feet get hot and then the vapors move up, plus it keeps the rub away from his nose and chest.) The next couple of days went better... but we got him a prescription for steroids. These caused Jayden to have a lot of energy.
The problem was how we handled the energy. Jayden could never calm down. He always was moving and was staying up until 11 at night. I had to stay with him a couple of nights just so he would stay in bed. One time I held him for 10 minutes trying to get him to listen to me. Alison and I both were worried that Jayden was starting a defiant role. It was not until I saw him on Wednesday in bed that I got it. Jayden could not stop his arms from moving,,, in bed his arms were just going and going and going. I saw what the medication had done to him. He was telling us no and that he could not calm down because he could not.
This is not some revelation telling you that medications are bad, because that is not true. We have been blessed by doctors giving us some anti-biotic and other various meds that have helped clear ear infections and other various illness that have plagued our children. In fact the steroids did help clear out his lungs.
Medication is not the point of this blog,,, what is, is that when I realized that I was the problem with my son, my whole outlook changed. We took him off and there was our son. The one that is happy and loves to play trains and was glad to see us and showed us that he knew the numbers on the clock etc...
Since that time I have reflected on how lucky I am that my son is who he is. He makes life memorable and interesting. He makes me laugh and he is active. He has little intricacies that makes him Jayden.
For example that past couple of weeks, Jayden comes home and goes up stairs and plays with his train sets. He loves his set... Then he comes down and wants something to drink. When you are working on something, he always asks "What are you doing?". He loves working on his tires of his cars. He will not stand in line... etc....
Jayden and Kallee had a good time at the gym on Saturday night... Jayden just loves that there are so many things to do... He ran and ran and jumped and swung and slid and was happy, just plain happy.
As a parent you think that your job is to tell your children what to do. For me, Jayden just needs guidance. Because he is going to grow up a fine young man. He will ask me questions and watch diligently everything around him. He has taught himself to read time between 7-10 at night because he does not want to go to bed before the 9. He has learned letters, pointing to the letter O on the page. He wrote a J last week, Line with a Loop under it.
Not being prefect is okay.. not learning from your mistakes is unforgivable. Especially when it comes to your children.. I promise both of my children that I will always learn to be a better parent.
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