Alivia and Ella Varley

Growing up so fast...

2012-02-10T11:11:00.000-08:00

The other night after dinner we usual let the girls play for awhile till it's jammy time. Normally that time of day is Alivia's time to go #2. She is so predictable is funny. Well on this night Alivia went in took off all her clothes (which is what she does for #2) and started working on the 10 minute process. Clint and I were in sitting on the couch and realized Ella wasn't around so I decided to go in and check to see if she was in with Alivia. When I opened the door this is what I found. Two naked little girls going #2. Well Ella thought she was, but really she was just sitting there. Ella has showed no interest in potty training so maybe this will be the beginning of something good.

WTR...

2012-02-06T10:42:00.000-08:00

We took Alivia out on Saturday night to the Worlds Toughest Rodeo. She was so excited all she kept asking all day is "when are we going". Alivia had so much fun and even got to enjoy her first taste at mini doughnuts in a bag. Basically crack in a bag, but she loved them and enjoyed every bite. When the Rodeo was over Alivia also got to experience her first concert. It took awhile for her to figure out what was going on and tried to be like all the older girls around us aka teenagers. Overall is was a fun night out with our little I mean big girl!

A little family picture before we headed out and Ella went with grandma and Paul
A little bull riding

Daddy and Alivia

All the girls waiting for the concert to start and so excited when the singer came out

Alivia taking in her first concert

Mom and Alivia

Silly lady

Fun days...

2012-02-03T11:20:00.000-08:00

Fun dress up day with the girls. We danced and were crazy all morning. So fun to watch Ella be able to join in on all the fun these days. Girls are so fun!!!

Busted

2012-01-30T12:08:00.000-08:00

In our house there is a rule that you have to be 5 yrs old to use mommy's camera. So when I came downstairs to upload my pictures for the blog I found these wonderful pictures. As I looked closer I realized they were not pictures I had taken so it must have been the girls. The greatest part about it is I asked Alivia to come in and look at these really nice pictures. When she looked at them she looked at me weird and said "what". I said who was the photographer that took these wonderful pictures. Alivia was pretty quick to blame Ella. As you can see Ella is the one in the pictures so my little Alivia had to of taken them. I wasn't to mad or mad at all. I think she knew she was busted by mom....

Finally snow...

2012-01-26T11:25:00.000-08:00

We finally got a inch or two of snow to play in the other day so we took full advantage and headed out. This basically was Ella's first time in snow since she was to little last year and we had 10 feet of snow all winter. Alivia has been waiting to break in her new snow boots and snow pants. We also found out we were not completely prepared for winter. I mean it's almost February and we still had no gloves besides the baby ones. The next day we headed to Target to finish up our winter gear for the rest of winter. To bad two days later it's 40 degrees and the snow is about gone again. I can't complain because last winter about did me in and this is a pretty nice break.

cont....

2012-01-24T12:17:00.000-08:00

Some final pictures of Florida end with Ella who asked papa everyday to play the piano. Every morning she would yell "papa" and then pull him to the piano to turn on. She also loves planes so when we were at the airport she would run to the window and just watch them. I think Ella might have a little bit of an obsession problem with things, but for now it's cute....

Florida Take Two

2012-01-20T10:44:00.000-08:00

I know I take a ton of pictures and I promise this is the last of our trip to Florida. In this batch it shows the girls having more pool and beach fun. Also, one of our fun nights out on the town. Enjoy!

We always try to get a family picture one night. Of course the camera case got in the way of this one.
Girls dancing to the live music they had outside.

Mommy and Ella

Mommy and Alivia

Pool baby

We had a lot of inappropriate swimsuits on this day. Between my girls we had a lot of butt cracks and boobies going on.

Sitting in the pool trying to get away from me and the camera.

The girls and this huge sandcastle.

Daddy and Ella on one of our walks.

And if you know Clint we couldn't get out of Florida without a food challenge. This one was a HUGE burger with 5 slices of cheese, 4 fried eggs and onions. Oh and don't mind the whole loaf of bread it's sandwiched between. Clint did a good job, but this time food won....

Florida Take One

2012-01-16T13:15:00.000-08:00

The Varleys are home after a very relaxing trip to Florida. We all had a great time and the weather was perfect for us too. We spent many days at the pool and beach. Ella could not get enough of running into the water and running out. Alivia would much rather spend her days swimming all day in the pool. From wonderful meals to laying in the sun it was a fun 8 days of greatness!

We played break moms sand castles for hours

Alivia's favorite pass time... the pool
One of Ella's favorite spots

She also did a lot of running down the beach

A fun night out for some yummy Mexican food

Papa and the girls watching the piano while it played for them

My beach babies

Ella Joy

Alivia and her many shells we collected

Favorite hang out places...

2012-01-04T11:26:00.000-08:00

Some new places to play in at our house are in the entertainment center which is now down in the basement. The girls figured out once the doll house was out of there it was empty. So what to do kids do with an empty space? Climb inside and hang out I guess.

Fun times in the Varley household
They thought it was pretty cool that the door closed and they were inside. Man I wish I would be entertained by something silly like that.

Ella also likes to sit on the couch like a cat. Today she watched the men outside cut down tree branches. I think she gets board when Alivia is at school.

Silly girl

2011-12-31T12:29:00.001-08:00

We had a great Christmas morning at home. The girls were really excited to see what Santa left them and they couldn't believe Santa ate the cookies. It just gets more fun every year!

Alivia opening her new barbie make-up
Ella enjoying her new backpack while opening a present

Wonder what is in this one....

Christmas at Grandma and Grandpa V's

2011-12-29T10:22:00.000-08:00

First stop this Christmas was heading down to IA to see all our uncles, auntie, grandma and grandpa. It was a short trip, but a lot of fun. Ate good food and exchanged some fun presents. This year the girls had a blast opening everything up. Especially Alivia this year.

Ella opening her new cows. If you didn't know she is obsessed with her moos so thanks to grandma and grandpa she has her very own.
Her new moo

Alivia opening a karaoke player. Can't wait to listen to her make up songs even louder!

Some fun interactive books from auntie

The girls in their footie pj's

Thank you so much for all the wonderful presents this year. The doll house has been a huge hit and the barbies from uncle Chase by far have been one of Ella's favorites. What a great Christmas this year in IA... Oh and I can't complain..... I love love love my ipad....:)

Holiday time.... School performance

2011-12-27T12:26:00.000-08:00

The Wednesday before Christmas Alivia has her school performance. All the three year olds performed many songs for the holidays and they did an awesome job. I was a very proud mom that Alivia was able to pay attention and sing for a half hour performance. First one down and many many more to go....

Alivia and Tessa before the show

The three year olds
Singing away

I believe it's her Santa left it there for me song

Done and sick of waiting

2011-12-21T11:55:00.000-08:00

Clint plays pool at home a lot and since I don't play with him enough or never as he would say Alivia has asked to learn. It was so fun to watch him teach her the basics to it. The only thing they butted heads on is Alivia wanted to hit any ball and Clint wanted her to hit the white one into a colored one like your supposed too. I told him she is only three she has many years to actually learn the correct way...

New tradition...

2011-12-18T09:12:00.000-08:00

This year I decided to start a new tradition that I did growing up. Each Christmas my sister and I got to pick out a new ornament for the tree. So with my girls I want to do the same thing, but with their own tree. I was going to wait on the tree this year and get it for next year, but grandma Annette surprised the girls Wednesday with this beautiful pink tree. It was the same day we picked out our new ornaments that grandma and grandpa came up to visit and bring the tree. Thanks grandma for being part of our new tradition...

Disney on Ice 2011

2011-12-15T13:16:00.000-08:00

Can't believe it's been a year since we went to the last Disney on Ice. This year was so much fun and the excitement to see it was even more elevated. Alivia could not wait till Saturday when we finally got to go. As you saw in previous blog posts Alivia had her Snow White outfit on almost everyday before we went. This year grandma Joyce go to go and enjoy the pure love these girls have for all the Disney princesses..

Presley and Alivia and yes this was the best one out of five...

Peter Pan, Wendy and all the animal kids.

Grandma and the girls getting ready for it to begin.

Peter Pan excitement!

and of course Tinkerbell...

Mommy and her princess... well at least one of them

The Lion King

Snow White and the seven dwarfs...

One of Alivia's favorites.... Aladdin

Jasmine and prince Erik

The newest addition to the princesses..... Rapunzel aka Tangled

more santa fun....

2011-12-13T10:40:00.001-08:00

We are so lucky to be able to do a lot of fun activities during the holidays. This time we headed to Paul's work for some yummy cookies and a visit with Santa. Only this time Alivia had just found out she was going to Disney on Ice so of course we had to wear our Snow White dress.

Keeping her distance to give Santa an ear full. This time she didn't tell him what she wanted she only wanted to tell him about going to see all the princesses.
Ella was pretty excited to see the elf's in the tree.

Alivia had me take this picture because she thought it would be a good one....

Totally not prepared to be in any of these pictures, but the only way Ella would be somewhat close to Santa is if I held her. The sacrifices we take to make a picture work. So do mind me in this picture...

Macy's 8th Floor!

2011-12-11T06:28:00.000-08:00

This past week the girls headed down to Macy's to see the Christmas display. We had so much fun looking at all the lights, learning about what Santa's helpers do and even writing are own letters to Santa. It was so much fun sharing my favorite time of year with such wonderful little ladies.

Patiently waiting for the elevator. Ella and Lilly not to sure what is going yet and little Isabel in the back just sleeping away....

Mommy and her girls... Maybe by the time Ella is in school I can get some pictures without that nuk and bear:)

Crazy girls getting ready for some fun.

So curious at this age. Love that I got this picture of them.

Alivia checking out everything.
Writing their letters to Santa. I think Alivia and Lilly wrote 5 or more so hopefully Santa gets their wishes...

Working so hard on their letters...

What a great picture!!!

Someone is ready for x-mas

2011-12-09T06:38:00.000-08:00

I thought I would send everyone into the weekend with a little song from my little lady. For some reason we only like to sing the chorus. Have a great weekend!!! Oh I guess I should explain the snow white outfit. Alivia found out on Wednesday she is going to Disney on Ice this weekend and got this outfit to wear. Let's just say it's day 3 of being snow white in our house.

Breakfast with Santa

2011-12-07T12:34:00.000-08:00

On Saturday we were lucky to go have breakfast with Santa. Our family, the Bartlings, grandma Joyce and Paul got all dressed up and headed out for a morning with Santa. The kids had a great time making crafts, talking to Santa and eating some good food.

Alivia talking with Santa about what she wants this year...

Ella scared to death to go near Santa, but still wanted her toy from him..
Big kids showing off their new toy from Santa...

Working on some fun crafts...

Jack helping Ella with her craft..

The whole gang.... Pretty sharp group!

Clean teeth...check

2011-12-04T06:55:00.000-08:00

Alivia had her first dentist appointment this weekend and she did an amazing job. She was so excited to go and get a new toothbrush. When we got there she couldn't sit still and carried on a conversation with two 15 yr. old twins that were not the best role models. Let's just say when they came out from their appt. one had 3 cavities and the other looked like they hadn't showered in a few days or weeks.
Once we were in the lady was so good telling her everything she was doing and let her try everything on her finger first. Alivia was great she let them do x-rays, clean with strawberry toothpaste and give her teeth a little scratch. All in all first one is in the books and she can't wait to go back in 6 months. Let's hope Ella is the same way, but I have a feeling she will be the one who screams or just doesn't want to go.....

Thanksgiving weekend

2011-11-30T12:01:00.001-08:00

Once again another great weekend in Iowa with grandma and grandpa. We had four days of playing, eating and swimming. Never a dull moment when we come visit grandma and grandpa aka crap-pa... We had so much to be thankful for this year and it was so nice to be able to spend it with family and wonderful weather.

Ella before she headed out with grandpa for a ride
Ella playing house with Alivia and the babies. Ella named this baby Tay-Tay and Alivia named her doll ann-apolis.

Ella's favorite spot in the house. She sits her from morning till night watching her moos. Now that it's cold she can't be outside sitting in the grass watching them. It's so hilarious to watch her sit here and just watch them all day.

Showing grandma the moos before we headed out for dinner.

Ella enjoyed her first cheeseburger happy meal. Such a big girl now!

Chloe and Alivia waiting to go out with grandpa for a ride.

We even got a little swimming in while we were down this time. We jumped in the pool for an hour straight.

Ella got a little tired and needed a little break.

My little fish.

Tis the season....

2011-11-28T12:44:00.000-08:00

I got in the holiday mood the weekend before Thanksgiving. I am so thankful to go down to IA for Thanksgiving so it gives a good reason to put up Christmas decorations earlier. Why can't we have our house look like this all year round. I think I would be one of those crazy people that would love it! Well happy holidays from all of us crazy, silly and wacky Varleys...

Don't Clint's legs make a great addition to this picture and the beauty of the room:)

Ella working on her side of the tree

Not sure what she is singing, but this went on for about 10 minutes

Grandpa's little ladies...

2011-11-28T06:33:00.000-08:00

8 am photo shoot...

2011-11-20T19:11:00.000-08:00

Nothing like your 3 year old asking you to take her picture at 8am in the morning. I asked if we could have breakfast first and she answered with a quick "no thank you". So in her very small pj's and ballet shoes we walked the catwalk in style...

Her smile with no teeth (not her best look)
Not sure the look, but she resembles a crazy dinosaur.

and last but not least the Kim K pose. Look over your shoulder and show off your best side!

First Haircut!!!

2011-11-18T06:34:00.000-08:00

Ella got her first haircut yesterday and she did awesome. She was more excited to get the sucker at the end, but hey she sat still and did a good job to earn that sucker. Ella looks like a superstar and has now joined the big girl club...

Didn't break face the whole time
Pretty girl

Bye, bye baby hair

Not sure about the hair dryer, but check out her curls

Sweet tooth anyone....

2011-11-16T11:57:00.000-08:00

So my little Ella takes after her mom and dad for sure with her sweet tooth. This girl can sniff out chocolate from anywhere. Someone can say starburst or m&m's and she will come running from miles away with drool rolling down her chin. We love her dearly, but I feel like we might have to put all sugar in daddy's safe....

Practice Time

2011-11-14T09:21:00.001-08:00

There is never a bad time of day to practice our dance skills. Alivia was already at 6:45 am the other morning to dance the morning away. She was in our full length mirror working on her step digs and step claps while daddy was getting ready. Once Ella woke up we all headed downstairs for some much needed dance time before the sun was up...

Wants to be like big sister so bad
Alivia taking pictures of Ella while she is dancing in the mirror

Lot's of ladies in the home....

2011-11-10T05:42:00.000-08:00

Kissy Face

2011-11-06T12:16:00.000-08:00

Thanks to the girls great aunt Jama we got to have lots of laughs with these fun lips and mustaches. I laughed so hard when Ella finally figured out how to bite onto it. Thanks for the laughs Jama!

crazy days

2011-11-03T11:12:00.000-07:00

I love it when we have crazy days at home. This day was xtra crazy. I think we laughed the whole time during lunch. Gosh kids are fun!

Really.... How can you not love this face.

Halloween 2011

2011-11-01T07:36:00.000-07:00

The girls had a awesome time this year trick or treating. They both went out and went house to house for over an hour. I had a princess and a ladybug this year and both were as cute as can be. Alivia set one goal for the night and it was to fill her bucket all the way up and we did for sure. Ella also did great and walk house to house holding her bucket all by herself all night. So fun to see them in their glory.

My purple princess
My little ladybug. We had the nuk and cold milk in hand because right before these pictures Ella thought it would be a good idea to grab moms curling iron. So we have three burnt fingers and the only thing to keep her happy was to hold the cold milk..... PS yes it's an old pumped milk from a long time ago I found in my freezer.

Trick or treat

Having so much fun!

Loving all of it

My two cutie pies

Halloween at Pauls work

2011-10-30T11:03:00.000-07:00

Friday we went Paul's work for a fun Halloween day. The girls got to trick or treat on each floor and then mingle with all the other kids over punch and carmel apples. We are so lucky to get to do all these fun activities with the girls.

We changed it up a bit and went as a fairy. After two days of being a princess we needed a change so this is what we came up with from things around the house.
Ella went as a bunny. Thanks to Presley Ella got to be this cute for the afternoon.

The girls had so much fun. Ella acted like she has been doing this for years. She was a pro at walking around and picking up the candy to put into her bucket.

My big girl.

Mmmmmm which one looks good. According to Ella she just takes one of each, she is my kind of girl.

Ella and her suckers.

Halloween at School!!

2011-10-27T08:24:00.001-07:00

Today Alivia had a parade and Halloween day at school. Of course she went as a princess with her light up high heels and magic wand. I think she was a little nervous with all that was going on because as you will see in the pictures she does not crack a smile once. After the parade and a few songs she warmed up a bit, but very serious though...

Walking in the parade with all the 3 year olds.
The morning 3 year old classes.

Ruby, Alivia and Allyson.. (not to sure about it all)

Starting to warm up a bit. I see a smile coming...

There it is and she even starting singing some of the songs at the end...

The girls.... As you can see Alivia had some of moms lip gloss on.

Our hard workers

2011-10-24T06:26:00.000-07:00

Another weekend where daddy puts us to work. We picked up leaves, branches and put up a storage house in the backyard. At one and three theses two have done it all with their dad. The good thing is they have so much fun being daddy's little helpers. Alivia did a lot of measuring of the trees while Ella watched from the trampoline a lot. Overall we got it all done and our house after weeks of getting ready is now ready for winter..... Oh and the greatest part of the storage shed is that it looks like a little house. Alivia asked me if daddy was going to live in it.... Love her!

Sisters at play

2011-10-19T06:52:00.000-07:00

We made a house from the pool table yesterday. We the half house on one end of the table and closed off the other sides and made ourselves a nice little house for a 3 and 1 year old. Fun times at the Varleys....

Fun times

2011-10-15T12:40:00.000-07:00

Another fun long weekend in Iowa for us and the girls. The weather could not have been more perfect and the company was wonderful as well. Between a birthday party, Halloween decorating and playing it was a full 4 days of fun....

Had to start with this picture. You would think it's just another one of Ella's classic pictures, but no not this time. Ella actually is wearing "kid sister" doll shoes. Yes the doll from the late 80's/early 90's. I was just dying laughing that that my little girls was wearing plastic doll shoes...

Alivia having a blast dancing

One of her new favorite dance poses

Daddy and his two girls

Alivia and Chloe at the party
Some of the kiddos working on the cake

Ella and Stella

Okay another funny moment of Ella's. Since grandma had her hair in a pony Ella wanted hers in one too. Only Ella wanted the bun form in with it...

Oh and we even made it to the pumpkin patch

I think we found a keeper

Fun on the big slide

Mommy and her little sweetheart

Enjoying the hayride.... Awkward picture and I promise they had fun

Ella riding the trikes

Precious little lady

Mommy and Ella going down the slide

On to our Halloween decorating. The girls loved putting all the decorations on the tree and around the house. Alivia loved going to the top of the house aka the attic to get everything.
Working hard on what to put on the tree

We made ghost out of suckers

Mommy and Ella working on the sucker ghost. I think Ella ate all our ghost by the end of the weekend.

Daddy's helper

2011-10-12T07:14:00.000-07:00

Ella spent the day helping daddy outside. They cleaned gutters, cleaned up leaves and got all the outside toys ready to go for fall/winter. Ella picked out her own attire for the day and even had some gloves to wear like daddy.

Bow made by Jessica Friberg, necklaces by Target and a face made with love.
Working hard on those leaves.

May be a small pile, but having the extra hands is great!.

New dance....

2011-10-06T10:28:00.000-07:00

Alivia and Presley learned a new dance this past week and it's pretty cute. It's hard to hear the music, but the song is about a dog named waggs... Girls are doing pretty good so far!

Pumpkins Patch

2011-10-05T11:11:00.000-07:00

The girls and I spent Sunday afternoon with grandma and Paul at the pumpkin patch. Ella was so curious about the pumpkins since she really hasn't ever seen them. Alivia had a great time climbing on the hay and playing at the old school desks. We are so grateful to have Paul as our personal photographer.

My little precious Ella
When did these two grow up

a white pumpkin was pretty funny

One of my favorite pictures and you can't even see their adorable faces

What is not to love about this picture

"what a tough life"

Sisterly love

Love my Livi

Senior picture at age 3

One with all the questions and the other taking it all in

Moms little ladies... How lucky am I

Zoo fun!

2011-10-03T09:09:00.000-07:00

What a beautiful day to head to the zoo with the girls. Trying to get in all the fun activities before snow comes. Even though we can go to the zoo all year round, it's still nice to get there and be outside and enjoy the weather. The girls had a blast and I think we might have a new favorite animal.

Hanging with the penguins

Ella could not get enough of these guys

Mom trying to get a good picture of the girls.. I take what I can get these days.

Showing off the smallest leaf she could find.

Ella thought it was pretty fun to sit on the pumpkins. She was not to sure about these pumpkins and what they were for.

Annual picture at the zoo.

6 years!

2011-10-01T07:06:00.000-07:00

Six years ago I married my best friend. I can't imagine life without him. He is the greatest husband and father to our two wonderful little girls. I couldn't ask for a better life. So excited to see what is in store for our family.

October 1st, 2005

October 1st, 2011

Practice makes perfect

2011-09-29T12:33:00.000-07:00

Alivia found out she has pictures at school next week so what does she do..... She picked out the outfit she wants to wear and wanted to practice taking her picture. Really! What three year old does this. Let's just hope she smiles a little better than this one and isn't the only one that truly strikes a pose when they say cheese...

Grandpa's Girls

2011-09-28T05:55:00.000-07:00

Grandpa Evan and his two little farm girls. Alivia and Ella love to go check the corn and cattle with him and sometimes he even lets them keep a corn stalk. Aren't these two so lucky!!!!

Ella my love

2011-09-26T12:00:00.000-07:00

When your 18 month old wants to dress herself in the morning this is what you get. Since big sister likes to get dresses as soon as she wakes up so does Ella. Ella thought Alivia's swimsuit would be the best fit for today. Oh and that is our new cheese smile!

We also climb everywhere. Ella has done this since she could move. Well she figured out she can get on the toilet and then up into the sink. Today I busted her before she could go any further. She thinks she is really special when she is in mom and dad's bathroom since there is make-up and fun things on the counter. Also, we are rocking the 70's shag hair. How can you not love this little one.....

Just singing and dancing

2011-09-23T08:34:00.000-07:00

If you need a laugh or a smile this weekend these videos will do that. Alivia has become my little entertainer and if someone is around she is always ready to go with a dance or song...

Crazy Ella

2011-09-21T12:20:00.000-07:00

My little Ella as most would say she walks to the beat of her own drum. We love her dearly and she puts the biggest smile on our faces everyday. Clint likes to call her our free spirit girl and she is from head to toe. Here are a few moments these past few days that were just to perfect to pass up.

Socks to her knees, no pants and a jammy top. One of Ella's finest outfits!
Easter bonnet hat, tutu, naked doll and of course the remote to her mobile (from when she was a baby) as a purse.

First day of Pre School

2011-09-19T12:52:00.000-07:00

Finally the true first day of school started last week. It all went great and even without tears. Alivia went right in and was so excited to meet her new friends. She even got to be the teachers helper the first week. Alivia was the line leader, calendar helper, and got to bring the snack on Thursday. Life is good so far in pre school....

More Iowa....

2011-09-16T12:26:00.000-07:00

Helping grandma and grandpa pick our a new rock for their yard

Daddy and Ella in front of a very large rock.

Grandpa helping his little lady aka Alivia across the rocks.

Ella got to ride shotgun down to see the big rocks.

The girls also got in some much needed singing time. Always a pleasure listening to little girls scream I mean sing...

Getting ready to go for a ride on the gator.

ISU... Go Cyclones

2011-09-14T12:31:00.000-07:00

The girls had so much fun this past weekend at the Iowa State football game. They were good sports with getting up when it was dark out and driving up to tailgate at the b*tt crack of dawn. The day was beautiful and of course can't beat a Iowa State victory over Iowa.

My little cheerleaders
Papa and Nana getting in on the school spirit. I think someone in this picture might have been cheering for Iowa. I won't name names........

Alivia giving nana a ear full about something important

Ella working hard on those cinnamon raisin pretzels

Our little cyclone family

Enjoying the day

Courtney and I before the heat rolled in

Alivia posing with Cy

More tailgating for this girl. She might have eaten anything and everything she normally doesn't during the tailgate. She definitely paid for it later in her diaper:) Another great weekend in Iowa.

Dance, dance, dance

2011-09-12T18:54:00.001-07:00

It's finally here and we could not be more excited. Alivia started dance and she is so excited to share her first day with you.... She goes every Wednesday for an hour. Alivia gets to do tap and ballet and loves every minute of it.

So ready to start this new adventure
Not only does she get to dance, but she gets to do it with her cousin Presley

Listening to Teacher Lisa give the class an overview of the year

Daddy even got to come on her first day and she his little girl all grown up

Teacher Lisa working with Alivia

My ever so graceful child making herself noticed while balancing a bean bag on her head

Old man Alivia with her skirt pulled up

shaving cream time...

2011-09-07T12:48:00.000-07:00

This has always been one of my favorite activities to do with kids. I used to do it with Jack when he would come to IA and visit and now I do it with my girls. It's a little messy, but tons of fun...

Valleyfair 2011

2011-09-05T18:47:00.000-07:00

Our annual Valley fair trip went off without any meltdowns, fights or tears which means it was perfect... We had a great time and I think the kids did too. For the past three years we have gone to Valley fair every year at the end of summer and let me say this year was the most fun we have had yet. All four kids rode rides till they were tired. I can't wait for future trips with these guys and what craziness comes with each year.

So ready to go in and start this fun day...
First stop the baby go round as Jack would call it. Ella just loved it as you will see from the video below.

What a great picture on the BIG swing minus the random girl in the picture.

Liv and Pres riding the space ship with Grandma and Paul

Since we packed a lunch and had a picnic the kids either got to pick a snack or play a game. As you can see these two picked a snack. They waited so patiently in the extremely long cotton candy line.

and waited till it was finally their turn and it didn't disappoint.

It was then back to riding rides and Ella just had a blast on all the rides. She is kind of a seasoned rider since she had already been to Adventure Land in Iowa a few weeks ago.

Riding the ladybug

I can only imagine what these two will be like when they really can drive. First off I hope Alivia watches the road more than herself when she is 16.

Last but not least Liv's favorite ride of the day. These two went on this back to back to back and then took a brake and went back on....

2011-09-02T06:48:00.000-07:00

We have been trying to fit in as many pool days in till it starts getting to cold for it. Both girls have become little fish this summer. Alivia can swim on her own now and even will jump off the side of the pool and go under water which is a huge step from the beginning of the summer. Ella on the other hand has no fear and goes right in even if there isn't anyone around. You need a team of people to keep up with her. Excited to see them next summer in the pool....

Clint having fun with our future basketball player.
She even hangs from the rim after stuffing it. Father like daughter....

Presley and Alivia

Waiting patiently on their pizza...

Even getting in some important reading before dinner.

2011-08-30T20:29:00.000-07:00

Not much has changed in a year and that is why we love her...

The joys of having kids

2011-08-29T07:47:00.000-07:00

Alivia doing what she does best singing and dancing. I can not get enough of her random songs and love of entertaining. She definitely makes me smile... Then there is Ella who tries so hard to be a part of the crowd and show off her skills. Love my girls!

Enjoying every moment

2011-08-26T07:07:00.000-07:00

The girls have been trying to enjoy every hot day since we know cold weather is right around the corner. I know I hate to say it, but it's true. So that bring me to why we have been taking in every park, pool and outside activity these past few weeks.

Alivia singing her heart out for everyone to hear.

Not sure what she was doing here. It looks like her poop face, but she was just in a little daze before she headed down the slide.

Two silly ladies. Can you tell how hot and steamy it was.

Alivia showing off her jumping skills. This girl will climb on anything and jump off it. Clint says she gets it from her since he is the jumper in our family:)

We also have been trying out a lot of new recipes. I think this day we made yummy lemon-blueberry bread and cookies.

Were big time now

2011-08-24T18:40:00.000-07:00

This week has been a big step at the Varley house. Alivia finally gets a little taste of what it is like to head off to school. This past year has been so hard watching her cousins talk about school and also her friends so finally Alivia's time has come. This week Alivia went to a pre pre-school camp. It's for 3 year old kids at her school to learn what school is about and transition them into the school environment.
So does she like it? Ahhhhhh let me think, she LOVES it. Monday morning she woke up at 7:15 and by 7:30 were were dressed and at the door asking if I was ready to go (while I am still in bed). As a stay at home mom it was the best feeling seeing her so excited and ready to start this new adventure. Once we got to school she met her camp teacher and went right in and had no problems saying bye. Not going to lie there might have been a small tear in my eye. This was the first time I have left my little girl. When Ella and I came to pick her up I could not ask for a better welcome. When she saw me come in her room she smiled from ear to ear and came running to tell me all about her day. We headed to the car and she was none stop talking about everything that went on. I heard some new names, songs and all about her teacher. Overall I think she likes it. My baby is growing up.

I know this isn't her first day of real school, but I have to capture the back pack and how excited she was to head to school.
The greatest part was I asked the girls to get in their seats like we normally do. Well on this day I ran in to get Alivia's drink and instead of getting into their seats they thought it would be fun to drive themselves. Alivia thought this was pretty funny.... Oh my little ladies

Smash face

2011-08-21T18:32:00.000-07:00

The new favorite thing to do on the trampoline is smash face. It's pretty funny and they love when I laugh at them so it's a win win. Fun times at the Varley house these days...

Top 10.....

2011-08-15T13:04:00.000-07:00

Top ten reasons I love having two of the most sweetest and loving girls.

10. They go from drama city to sweet as can be

9. I always have make-up and hair buddies in the bathroom

8. Picking out our daily outfit always turns into a fashion show

7. Seeing them in my shoes/boots

6. Best helpers when it comes to cleaning or putting things away

5. Free concerts everyday

4. The constant hug and kiss I get throughout the day

3. Having someone tell me I am beautiful everyday

2. The silliness that comes out of them

1. Hearing "I love you mom"

I am sure this top ten might change throughout the years, but right now I couldn't ask for anything else. These two girls make me laugh, cry and smile everyday. I can't believe how fast they are growing up and this is my last full week having Alivia home with me full time. One week from today she goes to a pre pre-school camp and then starts pre-school. Might shed a few tears since I have never dropped her off and left her in 3 years. Yes we have had family babysit, but leaving her at a school environment might make my little baby seem old.....

Backyard play

2011-08-11T06:54:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend we had a little bbq with my mom and paul and the girls had so much fun. It was such a beautiful day and thanks to paul he had his camera in hand to capture some awesome pictures. The girls played and played and I think he caught the girls in their glory.

Hang time on the swing
Of course Ella has to try it to. We can't let sister do anything without Ella trying it these days.

Joys of being a kid. Love the action shots.

We also tried a little tree climbing and after that Ella wanted to be up in the tree all the time. She stood next to it with her hands up like the tree was going to pick her up.

Alivia on the other hand wasn't to sure about the whole thing.

One of my favorite pictures of Ella. This picture captures everything about her. Ella's big blue eyes, her crazy hair that gets more white everyday and the innocence she has.

My sweet Alivia that just brightens up my day everyday

(even when her 3 yr old moods pop out)

If you know Alivia and her personality this pictures tell so much about her and I just smile when I see it.

Mommy's big girl.

Fun day out

2011-08-09T07:13:00.000-07:00

Birthdays in my house never go by without doing something fun even if your my niece. We always make the day you were born just as fun as the birthday party with friends. So to start off Presley's 4th birthday I made pink, blue and purple pancakes with sprinkles and whip cream. Then the girls headed to get their nails done while Jack and Ella stayed back and played. Jack was such a good sport hanging with all the girls and doing lot's of girly things. Once the ladies returned we headed to McDonalds playland and let me tell you my girls have never been before and when they walked in it was priceless to see their faces. Alivia and Ella had the best reaction when we walked in and then looked at me like "is this for real mom". Let's just say they had the time of their lives.

Jack and the girls
Pretty nails

It's hard to see, but they had flowers on each nail and toe. What a treat!!!

Iowa part two

2011-08-05T12:36:00.000-07:00

So the rest of the weekend in Iowa Chase, Clint and I headed to Guthrie Center for a night of music. There was 5 bands that played and was a fun night outside listening to music. I know the boys had a great time together and for me it was awesome people watching.

There was also a lot of movie watching with Alivia's favorite person, her uncle Chad. Alivia does a lot of snuggle time with Chad and it's absolutely adorable.

Evan, Chase and Clint were able to fit in a bike ride.

There was even some dress up and dancing happening. My girls can not pass up a time to dress up and be silly. Thanks grandma for letting us take over your room.

Doing a little dancing and yes Alivia has fish net tights on.

Iowa weekend part one

2011-08-03T14:22:00.000-07:00

Adventure land 2011 has come and gone. This was so much fun this year having the girls a year older. Alivia and Ella both loved riding the rides and just really enjoyed the day. Thanks grandma for putting up with all of us all day.

Annual picture by the pig
Loving the boats

Daddy and grandma doing some water rides with alivia

While Ella and mommy wait at the bottom and watch

Can't miss the merry go round so we hit it up first

We had some serious drivers on our hands

Mommy and Ella

Just can't resist those games. Thank goodness this one everyone wins.

Mommy's little sweetie pie

Think this might be our Christmas card. When do we ever get everyone looking and smiling..

Cousin fun day

2011-07-31T17:49:00.000-07:00

Movie day with all the kiddos. Let's see I think they lasted about 5 minutes like this and then it was off to running and jumping off the couch. Sounded like a good idea at first, but I should have known that a one, three, four and seven year old had other plans than sitting and being quiet.

Swim Fun

2011-07-27T07:12:00.000-07:00

A fun day with our friends. A little pool and trampoline to finish off a hot week. Sam, Claire and Lilly came over to play last Friday. Let me tell you it was so funny to watch them all run around like crazy kids
Alivia and Sam were jumping and all over the place which made it interesting with the three little ones. So much fun though!

AWESOME date night

2011-07-25T07:48:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend Clint and I went to the U2 concert and it ranks right up there with the day I got married and the birth of my two beautiful girls. This concert was awesome, amazing and one of the best nights in my life. I am so glad I was apart of history......

Clint in his Bono attire...
After the rain came through and let me tell you it was a Beautiful Day!

Waiting for the show to start and watching the stadium fill up.

Nothing like having a sister

2011-07-22T07:58:00.000-07:00

Having a sister is so special. I couldn't imagine my life without mine own sister. Growing up was so much fun to have someone to play with and teach me the way of life... Well as much as a little kid can do. I now love watching my own girls play and do things together. Ella follows Alivia around like a little doggy and it's so cute....

Fun picture day with Lilly

2011-07-20T12:20:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend Lilly and Ella had a little beach photo shoot. This time around trying to keep them focused and in a shot together was a lot of work. Being one and trying to get them to sit still and smile was a challenge, but I think we still got a few fun ones to keep. Paul always does a wonderful job at catching their personalities.

Bathing beauty
Oh and Ella was basically eating in most of them. I just love this one because of her face expression minus the fruit bar.

For some reason this one is one of my favorites of the girls. I like that they are not looking and just being one year old little girls.

For sure we had to get in "so big"

and our face when we hear a loud noise

more fun in IA

2011-07-18T07:38:00.000-07:00

Grandma and Alivia

I think it might be a little hot today....
slide time

Not sure about this one

My little ella

Must have been a long day or a really good dinner....

Crazy lady

Bridal shower fun....

2011-07-14T12:36:00.000-07:00

Last weekend not only did we see grandma and grandpa in Iowa, but mom got to get out and have some fun with the girls. We had Julie's shower and it was so much fun. It was a 50's theme all the way. From the invitations all the way to the food and drink. Awesome time with some good friends....

2011-07-12T13:07:00.000-07:00

When your tired your tired..... Ella fell asleep the other morning downstairs halfway off the chair. Love this little lady....

4th of July Fun

2011-07-08T12:47:00.000-07:00

2011-07-07T06:23:00.000-07:00

Ella Joy Varley

1 year old

22.5 lbs and 31.5 inches

Now that Ella is one she has turned into such a little girl. Here are a few things Ella likes and can do.

-loves kisses and hugs

-waves bye bye

-walks and does the peg leg run

-loves to play with big sister

-never is without her bear

-enjoys dressing up with her purses and headbands

-has 14 teeth

-has a great personality

-does a great faces when she drops things or hears a loud noise

-loves to jump on the trampoline

-loves music and dancing

-says maaaa (mom), dah (dad & dog), bah (when she wants her bear)

-loves to visit grandma, grandpa in Iowa

-enjoys swimming at papa and nanas

-dances when she gets to play with grandma and paul

-has a piercing scream

and much much more....

Alivia Kay Varley

3 years old

37 lbs and 40.5 inches
Alivia is my little sweetheart that just loves to love. She enjoys every situation she is in and makes us laugh all the time.

-loves playing pretend

-enjoys making art projects

-never is without her purse or make-up

-is a true girly girl

-could swim all day long

-will talk your ear off if you don't stop her while she is ahead

-LOVES princesses

-is full of energy

-loves her cousins

-enjoys going to movies with grandma and paul

-goes crazy when she gets to go to iowa

-loves to swim and play at papa and nanas

-eats anything and everything

-loves to sing and dance

-can't wait to go to school

swim tme

2011-07-05T07:19:00.000-07:00

Since it's been 90+ here we have been spending a lot of time at the pool and also playing at home in our pool. I have two water babies for sure. We spent hours in the water and they just played, laughed and spashed all day long. Maybe summer can stay around till October so the kiddos can get in extra time in the sun since we missed out on so much this spring.

Alivia my love playing in the water
kissy face

goofy girl loving it

Ella's new hair style. I think Alivia was 2 years old when I could finally get two pigs in.

Just like you...

2011-06-30T06:28:00.000-07:00

No one can tell you how much is truly feel inside to watch your girls play together. I sat and listened to Alivia try to explain to Ella how to play memory the other day. Ella sat there so well and just listened and looked at her big sister while she did her best to give the rules. I feel so lucky to have such sweet little girls.

Another heart warming feeling is when your 1 year old brings you a costume to put on because her big sister has one on. If Alivia puts on dress up clothes Ella will follow right behind her and want something on too. This day it was one of Alivia's dance leotards and a princess headband.

Are you kidding me.... How can you not loves these girls they are to funny for words. I think seeing Ella in a dance leotard was the highlight of my week....

My little ham... That is the best way to explain her personality lately. She is a little ham ball.

Fun in Iowa

2011-06-28T17:17:00.000-07:00

We had such a good time in Iowa over the weekend. The girls got a lot of playtime in with auntie, her uncles and of course grandma and grandpa. Mommy and daddy even got away for a date day to concert in Des Moines on Sunday. Couldn't ask for a better weekend!

Mommy and daddy heading out for the day
Awwwww

Little Ella working her box hands

Doing a little shopping with auntie and grandma

Oh and there was some playing at the mall too

This might come out when we are 18 yrs old

Fun days at the Varley house

2011-06-23T18:46:00.000-07:00

So far this summer has been either 100 degrees or 50 so when we can the whole family likes to go for a walk after dinner. The girls get their jammies on and we head out to walk the neighborhood and around Dred Scott Field to see all the games that are going on. Most kids would bring their blankets or lovey's, but not this girl. Alivia likes to dress up even when it's bed time. She is a true princess at heart and we love her for it.

Alivia loves to dance, sing or act out any type of musical. For some reason Clint and I ran across Lady Gaga's concert on HBO and turned it on. Alivia of course was curious and quickly ran to her room got her costume on and entertained us for the evening.

Soccer

2011-06-21T06:35:00.000-07:00

Our first summer of soccer is now over. Alivia had fun learning the basic moves of the game and also had fun playing with Sam and Presley. I think more fun was going on than actual soccer. This was the first sport or group activity for Alivia and it went as well as it could for a 3 year old. I am sure each year Alivia will be more interested and one day she will let us know what she likes to play. We have to start somewhere and this summer is was soccer.

Ready for a hot summer morning of soccer
We did manage to get in a few goals and practiced our kicking.

We definitely are more of a follower right now. Will see if she leads the pack next year..

A little pep talk with Presley.

The kids even got medals at the last game. It was the best $40 medal.... ha ha ha

Yeah Alivia!!!

Great season Alivia, Presley and Sam

Go team

Weekend away

2011-06-17T07:06:00.000-07:00

Clint and I took three days off from being parents and went and enjoy ourselves. Actually we were celebrating Clint's 30th birthday a little late. We headed to Winsted Minnesota for a two day concert that was amazing. We had so much fun and the weather was awesome. We spent three days outside and enjoy some great music, yummy food and good drinks.

Just got to the campground and ready to party. We were a little over dressed so thankfully I packed some shorts and tanks. Clint on the other hand had to rock the wife blesser aka wife beater.

No showers for two days not in this family. Who said you can't get clean with water bottles.

Second night and we got front row seats somehow.

Our long walk back to campground C... It was a fun walk to watch all the strange activity that goes on after a long day of drinking. We also saw a kid and when I say kid he was like 21. He let his friend pierce his ears with nails. Pretty sure he didn't feel much at the time, but when we woke up the next morning I am sure he was trying to figure out what the h#ll happened.

Nails, nails, nails

2011-06-15T12:17:00.000-07:00

For Alivia's actual birthday she got to get her toes and nails done. She had a blast picking out the color and sitting while she got her nails a pretty. I see many fun days with the girls in our future.

Sitting so still while the lady works magic
Of course we picked purple with sprinkles aka glitter

The butterfly chair for little girls to get some relaxation in

I think she is sick of me taking pictures

Ella even got in on the action

Lovin the weather

2011-06-13T12:13:00.000-07:00

We are loving every minute of our summer weather so far. Each warm day we get we take full advantage of it. We are outside as soon as we can get out and don't come in till dinner is on the table. Life is good right now!

Ella having fun walking back and forth with daddy while he play horse shoes.
Might be a little to hot today (104)

When it's hot there is nothing like the good old sprinkler to cool you off.

fun in the sun

2011-06-09T06:52:00.000-07:00

We have been having a lot of fun hanging outside and playing. We play in the sand, play house, make up our own games, pick up sticks and rocks and our latest addition jumping on the trampoline. Life is good these days....

Ella singing a little Taylor Swift
Making mommy cakes

Silly lady having a relaxing snack

We also have been swimming over at Papa and Nana's house too. We have a pretty easy life I think. Daddy swinging Alivia around.

Ella playing kissy face with the squirt gun

Cousin time

Lilly has even gotten in on some jumping time. She loved it and we can't wait to have her back to play.

Princess Party

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

Alivia had her princess party over the weekend. It was a beautiful day for my beautiful princess. The day was full of family, friends and fun. Thanks to all for making my little Alivia's special day so wonderful!

Alivia's birthday cake made with a lot of love by mom
Mommy and princess Jasmine

Strike a pose

More silly posing my Alivia aka Jasmine

Alivia's cardboard cut out I had made. Ella thought this was pretty cool.

Ella even joined in on the fun and dressed as Belle

My sweet love

Grandma and Ella Bella

Present time

Alivia's cool new bike

Some new princess shoes

Crazy feather head

Cake time

The day was perfect and so much fun. Alivia got all the princess stuff to last her a lifetime and we have more cake than we know what to do with. Till next year....

Happy 3rd Birthday to my little princess

2011-06-06T05:24:00.001-07:00

Happy birthday to my little princess that was born three years ago today. She came into this world early and I have been in love since. She is creative, loving, happy, silly and outgoing and full of life. She makes me smile everyday and couldn't think of what life would be like without her in it.

I still remember my water breaking with Alivia and thinking this can't be happening since it was still 2 weeks away. I was nervous, excited and so happy to be having my first little girl. Since 2:58pm on June 6th, 2008 I have been in love with a little girl named Alivia Kay Varley.

She has grown up to become such a gift. She is so full of life and can light up any room. In three years she has turned into my little princess. These days she loves playing outside, singing any princess song and making up dances to them. She loves to color, put puzzles together and visit anyone who will have her. So loves to put a smile on your face and make everyone laugh.

Alivia's creative side has really started to show this past year. There isn't a day that goes by that she doesn't have a princess costume on. She is always dancing and singing around the house and making up new dance moves for you to try with her. She is my little princess that I love so much!

Summer fun

2011-06-02T11:25:00.000-07:00

Loving the summer weather we have been having. We have been living outside and enjoying every minute. Poor Ella has gotten used to having sunscreen on like it's part of her daily routine. Got to love that fair skin.

Taking some time out to have a snack
Alivia and her boyfriend Pete. Clint brought this home for the girls to play with and Alivia has been extremely attached to him.

Just another day of making sand cakes.

Ella singing another one of her favorite songs.

Another summer day

2011-05-27T09:14:00.000-07:00

The girls had a fun day of picking flowers, playing in daddy's nice and new horse shoe pit and a walk to the park. We are truly taking in every nice day we can and enjoying it to the fullest. Alivia loved picking flowers for me. I think she liked how they smelled more, but either way it was cute. Can we keep this nice weather or is it going to be 40 tomorrow?

My beautiful big girl enjoying her garden as she called it.
My two favorite little girls....

Ella making sure Sampson gets some much needed play time in.

Alivia my sweetheart.

Fun wih Sampson

2011-05-25T07:09:00.000-07:00

Ella loves to play with Sampson these days. Sampson loves it since he doesn't get much attention especially when it's just me and the girls. Now that we can be outside most of the day Ella's new job is to play catch with him. Well as good as a one year old can do with a dog.

Family Fun

2011-05-23T08:33:00.000-07:00

About a week ago the Varleys headed to the Circus. Neither of us had ever been to one or one that we remember so this was a new adventure for us. Alivia was pretty excited and Clint and I were too (in a weird way). When we got there it was an eye opener. Lot's of people watching and crazy people. I couldn't believe the amount of people that go to the Circus. It was a fun new experience for all of us and not sure if we would do it again...... Well maybe if it was a different Circus we would try it again.

Daddy and Alivia

The biker guys that basically not afraid to die.

Daddy and Ella

The scary clown according to Alivia.

The best part of the show..... There were three elephants and one even balanced on a ball (pretty crazy to see). I thought the elephant going #2 was going to be the hit, but that clown was what we talked about for hours after.

A day at the park

2011-05-20T06:58:00.000-07:00

Our first little picnic of the summer. Presley and grandma Joyce came over and we packed lunches and headed to the park for the morning and part of the afternoon. The girls had a good time swinging and going down the slide. Ella went down the big twisty slide over and over again. We also played princess and I was the prince driving the ship. So ready for this summer!