Another Year With the Richards Family

Starting Kindergarten

2011-09-19T21:13:00.000-07:00

Riley was so nervous about starting kindergarten that she wouldn't let me take a proper "first day" photo. Instead, I snapped these on the sly in our elevator and on the train ride to school.

But don't worry. By day two, joy displaced the apprehension. Funny how a friend and a bucket of dirt can work wonders like that.

Viva kindergarten!

Hello Again (Summer 2011)

2011-09-11T14:59:00.000-07:00

Hello old friend. So much has happened since we last spoke: summer. A darn good one. We hiked, biked, bug collected, berry picked, picnicked, travelled...and wore ourselves completely ragged from fun.*

And since fun was the priority, non-essentials were neglected: our home was a disaster, we didn't eat enough vegetables, and I totally neglected this blog. Which is a shame, since I should have better documented the many memories we created.

But we've said a bittersweet goodbye to summer. Riley is back to school, life has calmed down a bit, and we're settling into a new routine. (Like waking up well before eight!) So maybe you'll see me here more often.

Meanwhile, enjoy our summer highlights:

*I should also mention this summer's milestones: Riley turned five, Wilco mastered mobility, and Matt and I celebrated ten years of marriage!

The Graduate

2011-05-25T22:46:00.000-07:00

Today was Riley's last day of preschool.

I'll admit, it had me feeling surprisingly sentimental. It's almost ridiculous how much she's learned and matured this year. Also, it makes me feel kinda old. And jealous that, with the onset of kindergarten, Riley will become totally immersed in the learning phase of life. A phase that, nine years post college, I feel far removed from.

But then I read this quote: "In youth we learn, in age we understand."

I had a little epiphany. I realized that instead of growing old and intellectually stale, I get to enjoy double-benefits: vicarious learning and age-acquired understanding.

So a huge congrats to Riley for graduating preschool. And a tiny congrats to me for passing Acquiring Understanding, Lesson 1.

Pinchable

2011-04-14T10:29:00.001-07:00

My friend once observed that most babies have a particular feature that people are drawn to. Her daughter, for example, had big beautiful eyes.

With Riley, it was (and still is) the hair.

And Wilco? It's these delicious cheeks.

Mister Baby

2011-03-10T12:16:00.000-08:00

That's what we call this kid. And maybe it's the oxytocin talking, but I just can't get enough of him.

Too Much of a Good Thing

2011-03-01T11:02:00.000-08:00

Before Wilco was born, I had no idea how Riley would react to having another kid around. She'd gotten kinda spoiled with attention after four years alone with us.

Now, five months into this sibling thing, it's safe to say she's loving it. Still. To say she adores her brother would be an understatement. Obsessed might be the better word choice.

But it's been amusing to see how fuzzy the line is between affection and torture. (And fortunately, the boy's a good sport.)

She's Crafty

2011-02-14T16:19:00.000-08:00

I never do crafty things, but I found an idea online that was good (errrr....easy) enough to steal. So I think it's worth documenting that I actually made Riley's Valentine's Day cards this year.

And here's how she feels about them:

Happy Valentine's Day indeed!

A Thank-You Note

2010-12-30T21:02:00.000-08:00

Dear Santa,

I really like the: Tinker Bell coloring book, chap stick, chocolates, and bike.* Thank you.

Love,

Riley

*Please note that the items mentioned before the bike totaled $8. Santa will budget next year accordingly.

Another Smile-Related Milestone

2010-12-28T20:57:00.000-08:00

The holey grin.

Happy Christmas

2010-12-25T21:08:00.001-08:00

This kid has been smiling for awhile now...but today was the first time we actually took the time to capture it on camera.

Merry Christmas from one jolly little elf!

Christmas Comes Early

2010-12-23T20:48:00.000-08:00

Riley can change diapers unassisted.

Merry Christmas to me!

Thanks life, for being great

2010-11-25T20:09:00.000-08:00

Hi friends. Each Thanksgiving, I notice I'm always deeply grateful for the same general things: family, friends, faith, food...

But beyond that, here are the random/inconsequential things I'm thankful for this particular year:

Sleep (and a baby who's good at it)
That Riley didn't catch her classmates' lice
That Wilco didn't catch his sister's cold
Trader Joe's Fleur de Sel Caramel Topping
Modern Family
Design Within Reach (check out pages 10-11)
That my jeans get a little easier to button each day
My kettlebell (best at-home workout ever)
Rainboots

All My Children

2010-10-22T16:38:00.000-07:00

All three of them:

The Scoop

2010-10-09T16:18:00.000-07:00

The birth

I had three wishes going into the birth of this baby:

Per Matt (and his work schedule), baby would come between October 1 and October 10.
Baby would come on its own (so I wouldn't have to be induced).
I would spend as much time laboring at home as possible.

Outcome:

Baby came a day ahead of Matt's schedule. But everything worked out fine. Matt's big project just shipped one day late, and of course the client was ok when he told them why.
Yay! Baby cooperated!
My water ruptured late at night. I knew if I called the hospital, they'd tell me to come right in, so I stalled a bit...until there was more gushing. My parents got a 1 a.m. phone call to stay with Riley, and we headed to the hospital, where I spent the entire labor process. But I was just so happy baby was coming on its own that I didn't mind revamping my original plan. And despite not laboring at home, the entire process went exactly how I wanted it to. (Except, of course, a lot more painful...)

The name

Once upon a time, I read this news article about a little Dutch boy named Wilco Conradi. When I told Matt about the article, he liked the name so much he decided we should consider it if we ever had a boy. Eight years later, it was still at the top of our list. And since it's a Dutch name, and Matt has Dutch roots, we figured why not.

Of course, here in the states, Wilco is used many other ways: it's a band name, an Oregon-based farm supply co-op, and the last name of the main character in Space Quest. But my personal favorite? In two-way radio lingo, it's the abbreviated version of "Will comply." What mother wouldn't want that namesake?

As for Joel, it's a family name, now five generations strong.

The sister

The biggest surprise of all has been Riley's reaction. She adores her brother. She was positively giddy his first few days of his life. And even now that the newness has worn off, she still loves doting on him, fetching his stuff for me, and gagging while I change his poopy diapers.

The recovery

Going great. It helps that little Wilco is very agreeable. And that I've been able to sleep in every morning. And I that haven't cooked meals, grocery shopped, or done any laundry, thanks to tons of help from friends and family. So yeah, I've been spoiled. Ask me again in a few weeks...

Welcome

2010-10-04T21:24:00.000-07:00

Wilco Joel Richards

Born September 30, 2010 at 3:55 p.m.

7 lb 13 oz, 20.5 inches long

We're all excited he's here. Even her:

For the Record (Pregnancy #2)

2010-09-28T21:43:00.000-07:00

Week 38

I'm a few days from my due date, and I realized I've been abysmal at documenting this pregnancy. With Riley, I have at least 60 photos of my growing gut. This time? Nine.

So I owe it to myself, you guys, and especially this kid to say a few words about the last 8.9 months.

We hadn't planned on mentioning my pregnancy to Riley until it was about halfway through. Nine months is long for an adult and an eternity for a kid. But it was at week eight when she commented on my big tummy. And came up with the baby whale theory.

Typical with second pregnancies, I showed really fast. And got huge fast. By month six, strangers assumed I was due "any day now." At month seven, a random guy at my gym said, "It seems like you've been pregnant forever!" And another acquaintance was convinced I was either having twins or that my doctor had the wrong due date. For the record, my doc says I've measured perfectly the entire time.

Pregnancy is kind to me. Besides feeling a little gross at first and a little huge right now, I've had no major complaints. I've been fortunate enough to keep my regular pace, including working out, until the past week or so. It also helped that Mother Nature gifted me a very mild summer. (Although I may be the only one in Portland who's grateful for that...)

Cravings: Rice Krispies. Fruit fruit fruit. Diet soda. (Awful, I know.) And there was one week recently where all I wanted at night was a hot fudge sundae from McDonald's. (Many thanks to Matt for indulging that one.)

I can't say Riley is excited about the impending life change, but she certainly express a lot of interest. She has requested her sibling be a whale, duck, giraffe, puppy, elf, fish, and wolf. She frequently declares, in a matter-of-fact tone, "If the baby is an animal, I will help take care of it. If it is a baby human, I will NOT take care of it." (At which point I remind her it will be MY job to take care of the baby. But that I'd love her help.)

Despite her ambivalence, it's been fun to have Riley involved in the pregnancy. When I started really showing, every morning she would enthusiastically announce, "Mommy, your tummy is getting SO big!" She enjoys feeling baby kicks and asking what the baby is saying. Our response? "I hope my big sister is really nice to me!"

I've had about a million and a half ultrasounds. Ok, maybe just like 5. And I've developed love/hate feelings toward them. Early ultrasounds had a few little red flags that caused some concern. But at my most recent one, the baby looked perfectly healthy. And hairy... Can you believe ultrasounds show hair as early as 33 weeks?

We didn't find out the gender, but nearly *everybody* thinks it's a boy. That's been my hunch, too, but of course I hate to admit that in a public forum for fear my mother's intuition is wrong.

Matt is finishing up a few big projects and has given me strict orders not to have the baby before Friday. And preferably before October 12 so he can travel to install a project. Will baby cooperate? Stay tuned!

Justification (You do the math!)

2010-09-15T21:33:00.000-07:00

I once heard the following theory on clothing purchases: deduct $1 from the purchase price each time you wear it, and once you hit $0, it was officially a good buy.

I figure for kids' clothing, you should deduct 50 cents each wearing. Or even 25 cents.

Well in February, I bought Riley some shoes on clearance at GapKids for $13. She has worn them every single day, nearly every single place since. That's more than 200 days of some serious Riley-style wear and tear.

So instead of being annoyed that they didn't hold up better, I'm telling myself it was the smartest $13* ever spent.

* or 7 cents per wearing

First Day of School

2010-09-10T20:32:00.000-07:00

I've mentioned, haven't I, how Riley generally feels about getting her picture taken? "Not good," to quote her verbatim.

That said, here's this year's attempt to capture a first-day-of-school photo:

*Sigh.* Not good, indeed.

What Happened in McCall

2010-08-24T22:03:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago, we attended another very fun Dougall family reunion in McCall, Idaho, a charming mountain resort town right on the beautiful Payette Lake. I've since been told that this part of Idaho is America's best-kept secret. I believe it.

Anyhow, a few vacation highlights included:

Lots of swimming. Or "slimming," as Riley ironically/appropriately (I can't decide which) calls it.

Broom hockey for dummies. (Tennis shoes on an un-Zamboni-ed skating rink.)

Ice skating for dummies.

S'mores.

Ice cream. Lots of it.

Basking in the sun.

Pony rides.

Goofiness.
(My sister's keen observation this particular evening: "Riley, it seems you change your socks more than your outfit!")

Happiness. Lots of it.

Not pictured:

Boating, jet-skiing, & water-skiing. (Except for the hugely pregnant attendee. Me.)
Picnic and lovely outdoor concert in nearby Podunk, ID.
My sister's surprise announcement that she's expecting cousin number twenty-something (I've lost count). I'm especially happy knowing our baby will have a cousin close in age.
Game night. (Every night.)
Cousin time. Lots of it. Riley's still experiencing withdrawals.

As the World Turns

2010-08-12T21:20:00.000-07:00

We attended a lovely concert in the park tonight. Riley looked extra cute (ok, quirky) wearing her star jammies and an apron as a gown, so I tried snapping pics on my phone. She would not for the life of me hold still, and it quickly evolved into a game of capture the photo op.

Here's the resulting photo essay. (I figure this captures her world view anyhow: Blurry. From that nonstop pace.)

And this one? Captured only after I pretended to put the phone away.

Four!

2010-07-27T22:13:00.001-07:00

We just celebrated Riley's fourth birthday. For the record, Riley may be the only child who's not eager to get older, bigger, and wiser. When we tell her how big she's getting, she demands, "No, not yet!"

Then again, a weekend of birthday fun (and too many presents) has gotten her excited about having more birthdays...

And by the way, in a moment of sheer brilliance, I bought two pair of those star jammies. So plan on seeing them often.

Mini Vacation

2010-07-22T21:53:00.000-07:00

We took a quick trip to Seattle last week. It involved a pleasant Amtrak train ride, the best-ever salami sandwiches, a children's museum visit, an aquarium visit, and a healthy amount of roaming the city.

The highlight, however, may have been the evening my sister Sheri, who recently moved to the area, babysat Riley so Matt and I could eat out. Our meal was amazing, and Riley had a great time, as evidenced by these photos. I mean, sunshine, ice cream, running amok, and jammies: what more could a girl want? (Thanks Sheri!)

Is that a fly in my soup?

2010-07-07T21:55:00.000-07:00

Riley has, against our will, developed an obsession for princesses. She's acquired a few princess dolls, and her absolute favorite thing to do is bathe them. In whatever liquid is available. Like, for example, miso soup.

Lest you think we're negligent parents, please note that she was scolded for this behavior (shortly after I snapped this pic, which, I might add, I did very stealth).

Deep Thoughts

2010-06-23T21:22:00.000-07:00

You know those if-then logic statements you learn in junior high algebra? Like, "If x and y are even, then x+y is even."?

Riley has recently mastered this kind of logical reasoning. Although a little (ok, a LOT) more rudimentary.

For example:

"If I want some milk, I want some milk."

"If I'm not tired, I'm not tired."

"If I'm done eating, I'm done eating."

And my personal favorite:

"If I want it, I want it."

All I have to say is, watch out Yogi Berra.

To All the Dads Out There

2010-06-20T21:41:00.000-07:00

Then & Now

2010-05-28T14:22:00.001-07:00

First day of preschool:

Last day of preschool:

Sweet Dreams

2010-05-25T16:45:00.002-07:00

I recently downloaded pics off my camera, and I came across this one taken back in March. Don't be surprised if it ends up being my 2010 favorite.

Doting Aunt

2010-05-16T21:05:00.000-07:00

Awhile back, my nephew Tanner requested I mention him on my blog. I'm sure he assumes I've forgotten (as he well knows I tend to do).

When I was 18, Tanner was 4, and I spent a lot of time babysitting him, taking him to Chuck E. Cheese's, and dealing with his precocious ways.

Now he's 18. And as precocious as ever. But he just received his Eagle scout, is about to graduate high school, and is headed to college shortly thereafter. Can you tell I'm proud?

Meanwhile, I'm dealing with my own precocious almost-4-year-old. And it brings me great relief to know precocious children everywhere can turn out as well as Tanner.

A Whale of an Appendage (Or: An Appendage of a Whale)

2010-05-12T16:45:00.000-07:00

I have some friends who think posting ultrasound pictures online is inappropriate/tacky/creepy. To them, my apologies (and permission to skip this post).

To the rest of the world, check out this beautiful leg!

The ultrasound tech said it's the thigh of a soccer player. Or runner. I know a certain proud grandfather who'd say it's the thigh of a NASCAR driver. (Regardless, the child can thank Matt, since mine are the thighs of a speed skater.)

Eccentric Artist

2010-05-12T16:38:00.000-07:00

Riley's preschool is holding a summer art camp, and look who the poster child is:

I love her intensity (sleeves rolled up, even), her stance, and of course that the paint colors match her coat.

Rain or Shine

2010-05-07T10:43:00.001-07:00

It's a beautiful, sunny day in Portland. (Finally!)

But Riley insisted on taking her umbrella to preschool. "In case it rains after school!!!"

Such a skeptic. Such an Oregonian.

(Summer is really going to throw her off. If it ever arrives. And I just realized where she learned skepticism.)

She's Crafty

2010-05-02T22:26:00.000-07:00

Riley's current obsessions: fairies, mermaids, and princesses.

I mostly attribute this to the copious amount of princess/fairy hand-me-down dress-up clothes we've somehow acquired over the past while.

As much as Riley loves her dress up clothes, she felt something was missing: fairy wings.

So Matt, resourceful guy he is, saved the day. Together, he and Riley made custom hand-painted fairy wings. Which I'm kinda hoping make it 'til Halloween.

Opposites

2010-04-28T20:37:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, I volunteered at a nursing home. In my attempt to get Matt and Riley to join me, I asked, "Riley, do you like old people?"

Her pensive response? "No, not really. I like new people."

Oh well.

(I at least hope that bodes well for this impending sibling/pet.)

It's a Mammal!

2010-04-25T19:33:00.000-07:00

As I mentioned recently on Facebook, Riley is convinced there's a baby whale in my tummy. She's surprisingly accurate, considering something *is* swimming around in there, and before long I will resemble a mother whale.

I'm hoping it's actually a baby human, because I recently learned that baby whales drink 100 gallons of milk each day. (I don't have that kind of equipment!)

Stay tuned. We'll get the verdict sometime early in October.

Tiptoe/Trample Through the Tulips

2010-04-19T20:20:00.000-07:00

Riley spent Saturday with my dad and my sister Sheri (who she affectionately calls "mommy's dad" and "mommy's sister") at the local tulip festival. She must have had a great time, because she was wired and ravenous the rest of the evening.

The next day, I got this e-mail from my sister:

"Your child is impossible to photograph, but I know that is no surprise to you!"

She's right. No surprise here. So I was pleasantly surprised that she and my dad managed to capture these cute photos:

Consider Yourselves Warned

2010-04-13T22:35:00.001-07:00

GapKids sells princess t-shirts. Plan your shopping trips with your princess-obsessed three year old accordingly.

I told Riley I would get her a t-shirt for her birthday or when they go on sale, whichever came first. Unfortunately, I immediately noticed one on sale. (But fortunately, it's slightly less tacky than the one pictured below.)

*Sigh.* Am I spineless or is she persuasive?

(Don't answer that.)

Wonderful Weekend x 2

2010-03-15T22:11:00.000-07:00

For the first time ever, I took a quick husband/child-free weekend getaway with friends. I had a great time. But more importantly, so did Matt and Riley. (Which hopefully means I can get away again some time in the future.)

Here are photos from Matt and Riley's Saturday morning excursion to the waterfront.

(My friends and I didn't stop chatting long enough to take any photos of our excursion.)

The Haircut

2010-03-12T11:33:00.000-08:00

Riley has been longing for long hair. ("Like the mermaid," she says.) But given my inability to comb/style hair, I was not keen on the idea.

So after some serious negotiations/bribery, Riley got a haircut. And a popsicle. And three new Berenstain Bear books. That girl has serious negotiation skills.

The haircutter convinced me to give Riley bangs. Which means we can actually see her face now.

And after all that whining about not being able to take decent pictures, I did manage to take one of her new haircut that wasn't blurry, had good lighting, and was free of hair in the face.

The problem?

The kid.

Stay tuned for better pictures. Hopefully.

Photos

2010-03-10T09:47:00.000-08:00

For the life of me, I can't seem to snap a decent picture of Riley anymore. All my attempts are either poorly lit, blurry, or there's hair in her face. ('Cause the kid never stops moving.)

So I was thrilled to get this picture from my sister Sheri:

and this from Riley's preschool teacher:

I'm glad someone out there is able to document my child's life. If you've got any others, send 'em my way.

In the News, Part Deux

2010-03-08T10:09:00.000-08:00

On their flight home from Louisiana, Matt and Ben noticed this picture in the newspaper the fellow next to them was reading:

Cool, eh?

Ok, enough about Matt and the mobiles. I'll find a new topic soon enough.

In the News

2010-03-05T15:17:00.000-08:00

The Oregon Daily Journal of Commerce wrote a nice little article about Matt and the mobiles.

Massive Mobile

2010-02-28T19:32:00.000-08:00

Matt was on the road this week installing mobile in the Women and Children's Hospital of Rapides Regional Medical Center in Alexandria, Louisiana. The mobile is massive–30 feet tall–which is Matt's largest to date.

When the install was complete, Matt and Ben, his right-hand man, celebrated with copious amounts of boiled crawfish. Which probably made Matt even happier than finishing the project itself.

The original concept

Ben in the shop next to the in-progress piece

Matt, 35 feet in the air

Matt with the final piece

I Heart Multitasking

2010-02-20T15:10:00.000-08:00

Riley has been dying to celebrate Pink Toy's (aka Love-a-Lot Bear) birthday. We decided Valentine's Day would be the perfect day. Mostly 'cause I was planning to bake anyhow.

We had my family (including 6 adults and 4 kids) over to celebrate (under the guise of Valentine's Day) with chocolate custard cake. It was the most hoppin' party I've ever thrown for a stuffed animal.

Ambivalence

2010-02-16T16:36:00.000-08:00

Riley: Daddy, I want to get a girl kitty.
Matt: We can't Riley. Cats make me sneeze too much.
Riley: We could get a boy kitty.
Matt: Boy cats make me sneeze, too.
Riley: Then you could live at work.

The next day, Riley said when she grows up, she wants to marry daddy. She's so hot and cold.

Hide & Seek

2010-02-08T10:37:00.000-08:00

The Berenstain Bears and Too Much YouTube

2010-02-04T15:50:00.000-08:00

Riley recently discovered the Berenstain Bear clips on YouTube. I'm embarrassed to admit this, but she's obsessed. If we didn't strictly limit her computer time, I'm pretty sure she would watch them for hours on end. Some days, it's all she talks about.

So here's a conversation she and I had the other morning, shortly after she woke up:

R: Mommy, can I watch the Bears?
M: You can later, right before naptime.
R: Oh. [long pause.] Mommy, I'm ready for my nap now.

The master negotiator strikes again. And I'm about to pull a Mama Bear.

¡Viva Mexico!

2010-01-20T20:29:00.000-08:00

We just returned home from a lovely trip to Mazatlan with my parents. We spent the week swimming, reading, swimming, playing games, and swimming. We even managed to relax a little, despite the un-relaxing kid, thanks to consistent tag-teaming and daily nap times.

And excuse me briefly while I brag: The day we arrived, Riley, who considers this swimming, was leery of the pool. By day 7, she was totally comfortable, freely propelling herself underwater (can I call that swimming?) several feet between Matt and me.

As usual, we didn't take enough photos. (And somehow, Matt and my mom didn't end up in any of them...) Anyhow, here are our favorites from the very slim pickings. Enjoy!

Sunset. (Trust me, it was prettier in person.)

Me, Riley, and Mommy's Dad.

Poolside happy hour. Happy, indeed.

Riley and Zelf, maxing and relaxing.

Christmas Catch Up

2010-01-09T21:31:00.001-08:00

Since it's been more than two weeks since Christmas, I figure I ought to finally post the remaining batch of photos from our Christmas trip.

Zelf's surprise cameo in SkyMall magazine.

Riley enjoying the snow. Momentarily.

Riley's cookies for Santa. (Um...thanks, but no thanks.)

The Christmas tree, procured from the cabin's backyard.

The cousins on Christmas morning. (Can you spot the crying kid?)

Bandaids! (We could've stopped there. Maybe next year?)

Sleep in Heavenly Peace

2010-01-04T20:54:00.000-08:00

A few days before our Christmas trip, Riley and her Portland cousins did a little nativity at my parent's house. Riley's confusion about her role as angel turned into one of my favorite Christmas 2009 photos.

Merry Christmas, Julie

2009-12-30T17:24:00.000-08:00

My sister told me it's unacceptable that I haven't updated my blog in 26 days. So this little update is for her. (And anyone else who agrees with her.)

Here's what happened during December:

I turned 32. Happy birthday to me.
Matt worked like a dog. The holiday rush always keeps us busy, but this year, Matt added a commission to the mix. He worked very hard, and we didn't see enough of him. (But we know better than to complain about having lots of work.)
Zelf's face got mutilated in an unfortunate stroller accident. Adding insult to injury, later that same day, he fell out of my pocket and disappeared while we were Christmas shopping. Sad, sad day in the Richards household. Thankfully, he reappeared the next day with new clothes and a fixed up face, so Riley assumes he briefly returned to the North Pole for reconstructive surgery.
I performed a violin duet of Away in a Manger on three different occasions. Which I hope makes up for three solid years of neglect.
We spent Christmas in Utah with Matt's family at their cabin in the mountains. We had a great time playing in the snow and not working.
Riley got chap stick, band-aids, and a pink re-useable bag from Whole Foods for Christmas. (Along with a few other things.)
I gave myself permission to neglect my blog.

Away in a Manger

2009-12-04T22:17:00.000-08:00

We attended a lovely Christmas pageant tonight. Riley tried her darndest to get Zelf a starring role. Such a stage mom.

Wish Big

2009-11-26T12:05:00.001-08:00

Here's Riley's Christmas wish list:

chapstick
band-aids
a purple reusable bag from Whole Foods

My bank account thinks that's reason enough to be very grateful this Thanksgiving.

A Bedtime Story

2009-11-23T21:42:00.000-08:00

Once upon a time, there was a little girl who slept with four pacifiers.

Years later (two, actually), the little girl had long since outgrown her pacifiers. But she continued to exhibit obsessive bedtime behavior.

And they slept happily ever after.

Then end.

Halloween Traditions

2009-11-06T16:15:00.000-08:00

For Halloween, we joined our group of friends for the third year running for a marathon evening of trick or treating.

Riley departed from tradition, however, when she forgot to throw her annual post-trick-or-treating meltdown. A happy holiday, indeed!

Killer Bunny

2009-10-31T15:19:00.000-07:00

Hoppy Halloween!

Fun for all ages

2009-10-29T20:42:00.000-07:00

Our friends Jim, Ginger, Vivian, and baby Bryant joined us to carve pumpkins. We thought Riley and Vivian would have a ball scooping out pumpkin guts and choosing jack-o-lantern faces. We were wrong. They spent the evening off playing elsewhere.

No worries. We grownups had a ball instead.

The Reward

2009-10-25T22:01:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was a big day in the Richards family: We went to the farmer's market without a stroller.

That's a big step for a family with a free-willed child like ours. So we drove a hard bargain: If Riley behaved, she got to run free afterward. If she misbehaved, the stroller would return next week.

The verdict:

Diplomacy

2009-10-24T20:17:00.000-07:00

I remember, as a kid, asking my mom which child was her favorite. She responded predictably and emphatically: "I love ALL my children equally."

So I had to chuckle when, after asking Riley whether she liked Zelf, Pinky, or Super Grover best, she responded as emphatically as my own mother had: "I am ALL them's mommy!"

Pumpkin Patch 2009

2009-10-12T16:55:00.000-07:00

Saudi Arabia Or Bust

2009-10-04T20:58:00.001-07:00

Here's a mobile Matt is about to send to Saudi Arabia, where it will hang in the children's area of His Excellency Somebody-Or-Other's royal palace.

This project has been several months in the making. Matt welded the frames, dyed all the fabric (over the tiny stove of our tiny kitchen), and enlisted a friend to do all the sewing. The only problem? His shop ceilings were about 5 feet too short to fully assemble the mobile.

Thank heavens–quite literally–for the church gymnasium.

No, this is not an announcement.

2009-09-29T22:17:00.000-07:00

Ever since Riley's friend Vivan got a new baby brother a few weeks back, Riley has become absolutely baby crazed.

She:

crawls and baby talks whenever the mood strikes
shoves dolls up her shirt and declares, "I have a baby in my tummy!"
swaddles Grover, her own "baby brother"
had the nerve to ask, "Mommy, your tummy is big...you have a baby in there?"

Geez, talk about pressure. (To provide a baby brother and/or lose my gut.)

Two Can Play at That Game

2009-09-24T17:31:00.000-07:00

Riley has an annoying habit of yelling out random requests long after we've put her to bed. Occasionally, when it goes overboard, we temporarily confiscate Zelf.

So here's a conversation Matt had with Riley the other night when she called out requesting more ice for her sippy cup of ice water–nearly two hours past bedtime:

Matt (holding Zelf near his ear): What's that Zelf? It's too noisy? Yeah, it is pretty noisy. Riley, Zelf says he can't sleep when you yell like that. He says if you keep making noise, he wants to sleep somewhere else. You need to be quiet so I don't have to take him.

Riley (grabbing Zelf back): What Zelf? Daddy, Zelf says I need more ice.

Score: Riley 1, Daddy 0

Genealogy

2009-09-16T22:05:00.000-07:00

Having two sets of involved grandparents is confusing, isn't it?

So instead of asking "Which Grandma?" Riley has just created new names for them: Mommy's Mom and Daddy's Mom.

And the Grandpas? They're Daddy's Dad and Mommy's Dad.

Zero points for creativity. 101 points for accuracy.

We were lucky enough to have Daddy's Mom visit over the weekend!

First Day of School

2009-09-13T11:32:00.000-07:00

Here's Riley on her first day of preschool. She was so excited that it didn't even bother her when I broke to her the news that Zelf wasn't invited.

The Executive Branch of Parenthood

2009-09-09T20:38:00.000-07:00

The first day of preschool was a raging success. Except the teacher requested that Riley wear shoes that don't fall off on the playground. (Unlike these.)

So after school, we went shoe shopping, where Riley learned a lesson in government: Request ridiculous shoes like this, and mommy exercises absolute veto power.

Meet the Teacher (but try not to scare her)

2009-09-03T22:53:00.000-07:00

Preschool starts next week, which we're all really thrilled about. And Riley and I got a little sneak peek today with a pre-preschool picnic.

While I attempted to meet her teachers and other parents, Riley spent the entire picnic racing around the lawn, somersaulting down a nearby hill, attacking the tortilla chip dish, and dancing her heart out (wearing her bright pink puffy tutu, of course).

Her teacher watched with amusement (or was it terror?) and said, "She certainly looks comfortable here. I can tell she's really...creative."

(Please tell me "creative" isn't some kind of euphemism.)

Mutually Beneficial

2009-08-26T21:38:00.000-07:00

While we were in Utah, my sister Emily volunteered to babysit Riley at her home one evening so we could go out to eat.

Emily recently sent me photos of their evening together. Turns out, in additional to being a kind and generous sister, Emily is a brilliant and resourceful aunt.

The Best Medicine

2009-08-24T16:00:00.000-07:00

We spent yesterday afternoon organizing the toys in Riley's room. She rediscovered some old favorites and developed some new favorites, too. Like a toy doctor's syringe that I have no clue how/when/where we acquired.

So Riley spent the rest of the afternoon administering faux shots. But only after warning me first, "I need to give you a shot, Mommy. This going to be reeeeally hurt."

(If it did, in fact, hurt, I was laughing too hard to notice.)

Summer: The Abridged Version

2009-08-11T21:57:00.000-07:00

One of life's little ironies is that when there's a lot to blog about, there's so little time for blogging.

We have been so darn busy maximizing our fun this summer that I've got this backlog of blog entry ideas that, let's be honest, I'm just never going to get to.

So instead, here are the ClifsNotes highlights of our past few weeks:

Riley's joint birthday party with her friends Anna and Vivian, who all celebrated birthdays within a week of each other.
The Sesame Street cupcakes my friends Ginger, Lissie, and I made for the joint birthday party.
Riley's three-year checkup, during which I learned that shots don't faze Riley at all if they're quickly followed by a bandaid.
Portland's heat wave: A week of 100-plus degree weather. No a/c. Bleh.
The mobile Matt, our new employee Ben, and I stayed up 'til 2 a.m. finishing just before deadline.
Our trip to Salt Lake City to visit Grandma & Grandpa, Riley's cousins (who were in town from Houston), Matt's extended family, my sisters, and a few good friends.
Riley's birthday party #3, thrown by Matt's mom and sisters.
Lots of fun activities during out trip.
Riley's new best (stuffed) friend, Pinky the bear. Sorry Zelf. (And thanks, Grandma!)
Our eighth anniversary!

Whew.

So. If you don't hear from me for a few more weeks, don't worry. We're either busy enjoying our precious final days of summer–or recovering from the past few weeks.

the birthday girls

the cupcakes

the mobile (in process)

the grandma and cousins

the birthday party #3

the pinky bear

Your Wish is My Command

2009-07-26T19:48:00.000-07:00

Here's a recap of Riley's birthday yesterday (not necessarily in chronological order):

"I be three. I eat cake."
(For the record, she specifically requested a pink cake. Which pretty much melted in our super-hot un-airconditioned condo.)

"I go swimming in the water with my swimsuit." (She actually spent more time biking in the water with her swimsuit.)

"I see Madison and Carson."

"I go to the painting place."

"I eat ice cream." (Not pictured, but occurred at Ben & Jerry's AND the family party.)

"I get chap stick."

"I get bandaids."

"I paint my fingers and my toes." (To somewhat appease Matt, I got a slightly glittery clear polish. Barely noticeable!)
There. Every single wish granted.

Have I set a bad precedent?

Lovely Day (Twofold)

2009-07-23T21:48:00.000-07:00

We just got back from a quick trip to the beach, where we spent the day visiting our friends Sven and Hyuna–and their three adorable boys.

We haven't seen Sven and Hyuna in ages because they live all the way in South Korea, so it was really nice to spend time catching up with them.

The only sad thing is that I was too busy enjoying the day that I forgot to pull out the camera. That is, until we parted ways and stopped for dinner on the drive home, where Matt got this:

A half-pound burger topped with bacon, ham, cheese, grilled onions, AND a fried egg. Yikes.

(Ok fine, it was delicious. Matt was kind enough to let me try it, just before he polished off the last bite.)

What a perfect day.

The Wish List

2009-07-19T21:18:00.000-07:00

Riley's birthday is fast approaching. For the past few months, at any mention of a birthday, Riley would say, "I be three, I eat cake!"

Before long, it evolved: "I be three, I eat cake, I go swimming!"

But the birthday demands are ballooning.

Just yesterday when Matt mentioned her birthday, she said:

"I be three, I eat cake, I go swimming in the water with my swimsuit, I see Madison and Carson, I go to the (ceramics) painting place, I eat ice cream, I get chap stick, I get band aids, I paint my fingers and my toes."

Demanding as she may be, I think her requests are do-able. (Although Matt would disagree on the finger/toenail painting.) But at least she's not requesting a cat/dog/pony/trip to Disneyland?

Happiness is...

2009-07-15T22:27:00.000-07:00

...a new fridge. One that's eight cubic feet larger. *Sigh.* I'm in heaven.

Before:

After:

Any bets on how long it stays organized?

Picking Berries/Battles

2009-07-08T22:55:00.000-07:00

Sheri and I went berry picking this evening. Poor grandma's ears deserved a break, so Riley joined us.

She behaved so shockingly well–occupying herself with raspberries, Zelf, and her new shoes–that when, for some unknown reason, she stripped to her skivvies, it just didn't seem worth battling. I prefer berries over battles.

For the Record

2009-07-05T15:00:00.000-07:00

My child does own a bathing suit.

In fact, it was her festive outfit of choice for our July 4 festivities. (Gorging on cherries, listening to tunes at the farmer's market, and hanging out out at Grandma & Grandpa's. But swimming? Not so much.)

Summer Swim

2009-07-01T16:51:00.001-07:00

Summer in this city is absolutely glorious. And this year, I've resolved to seize the beautiful weather by riding my poor, neglected road bike as much as possible. Lucky for me, Riley loves the bike trailer this year, so we've set out to explore all the parks within biking distance. Yesterday's destination had a watering hole, which made for a great impromptu swim.

Needless to say, between Riley's swim, my bike ride, and all that sunshine, we were one happy family. (Poor Matt just worked all day. But, uh, earning money makes him happy?)

Resourceful

2009-06-28T20:58:00.000-07:00

Matt, of all people, has been upset about the demise of the Elmo stroller. So to preserve a bit of it, he removed the cover before we threw out the stroller frame.

Matt and I were still debating what to do with it (after laundering it, first and foremost) when Riley decided for us:

(Clifford was also acquired at that killer rummage sale.)

Sweet Ride

2009-06-23T21:07:00.000-07:00

Check out the $5 stroller I scored at a rummage sale this weekend:

I'll admit, it's nothing fancy. But it feels like a major upgrade after dealing with this:

(Yes, those back three tires are missing. Classy.)

World's Best Dad

2009-06-21T21:27:00.000-07:00

I'm afraid if I were to list all the reasons why Matt is the world's best dad, it would 1. make ME look like a slacker mom and 2. make all the other moms jealous.

Let's just leave it at this: Matt is a 100-percent involved dad who goes above and beyond every single day. Which makes Riley and me awfully darn lucky to have him around.

Grandma's a Good Listener

2009-06-18T22:11:00.001-07:00

My sister Sheri and I went berry picking yesterday–our favorite summer activity. Meanwhile, Riley got to spend some quality time at Grandma's. When I dropped Riley off, she was really sad. I knew she'd be fine, and of course, when I returned, she was happy as could be.

As we headed home, I asked, "What did you do with Grandma?"

"I cried," she said. "And it hurt Grandma's ears."

Ah, quality time, indeed. (For me and Sheri, at least...)

My Shopping Buddy

2009-06-16T22:25:00.000-07:00

Riley and I popped into Anthropolgie today to check out the sale rack. After I tried on a shirt, Riley exclaimed, "Mommy, you look really cute in that!"

I was flattered. But I left empty handed.

I mean, can you trust the judgement of a pajama-wearing two-year old?

Cousins

2009-06-15T20:17:00.000-07:00

While we were in Utah, Riley's cousins, Alex and Shea, were visiting from Houston. It was our first time to see them since Christmas 2007. We still can't believe how much they've grown up–they've become excellent babysitters (with Grandma's supervision, of course). And to say Riley adored them would be an understatement.

The Wedding Day

2009-06-13T17:00:00.000-07:00

My sister got married last Saturday. The festivities didn't begin until that afternoon, so Matt, Riley & I spent the morning visiting a historic farm nearby. We fed the geese, introduced Zelf to the goats, checked out the pigs...and convinced Riley that the duck bite she received was actually a kiss. (She didn't fall for it.)

At the farm, we saw a couple from afar getting wedding photos taken. Lo and behold, it was Julie and her soon-to-be husband. I spent the rest of the day coveting her wedding dress.

The wedding itself was really lovely–except the part afterward when Riley refused to cooperate for the all-nieces photo. Notice someone missing? (Even the babies cooperated, for pete's sake!)

We also seized the opportunity to get a photo of the Dougall siblings (minus the overseas brother).

The wedding reception was later that evening, and we loved every minute of it, thanks to great company, the most delicious wedding cake ever, and Matt's parents, who babysat Riley!

Congrats, Scott & Julie!

Home Sweet Home

2009-06-10T22:41:00.001-07:00

We just returned from a whirlwind trip to Salt Lake City for my sister Julie's wedding. We had a great time, and we enjoyed spending time with both our families. I will include more details about our trip once (er...if) I get all caught up here at home.

But for now, suffice it to say, we're all glad to be done with this:

The 12-hour drive, each way. Bleh.

Moving On

2009-06-01T16:11:00.000-07:00

In case you haven't noticed, this girl loves wearing jammies.

But, after a week of 80-degree weather, I think a new clothing obsession is brewing...

Fiber & Leafy Greens

2009-05-24T21:55:00.000-07:00

The other day, I gave Riley an option: we could visit either the zoo or Whole Foods. She picked Whole Foods.

To make the outing kid-friendlier, we stopped by a nearby park, where she spent the entire time stirring a pot of (puddle) soup, carefully garnished with sticks and leaves.

Quite the health-food kick for a kid who'd gladly live off ice cream and batter.

Armed and Totally Harmless

2009-05-21T22:43:00.000-07:00

After I made banana bread last night, I let Riley lick the beater. And of course recalling the last time I baked, she requested, "Take my picture!"

Forgive us, Santa

2009-05-18T20:44:00.000-07:00

The other day, as I grabbed something from a lesser-used closet, I noticed the box Zelf came in. And the following advisory:

Whoops. (Only two months 'til we're 50% compliant.)

Armed and Dangerous

2009-05-17T22:57:00.001-07:00

Sunny Day, Sweeping the Clouds Away...

2009-05-16T09:39:00.000-07:00

Finally, a little sunshine. Even Grover appreciates days like this.

The Best Gift: An Incident-Free Day

2009-05-10T14:34:00.000-07:00

Whew, what a week: First, all the puking. Then the ER. Then yesterday, Riley slammed her thumb in the door. Fortunately, it wasn't broken–ascertained only after the wailing and swelling died down.

So of course, I loved getting this Mother's Day card:

The $100 Milestone

2009-05-08T21:20:00.000-07:00

At the ripe age of two-and-three-quarters, Riley's milestones are now few are far between. So I guess it's worth mentioning her latest one: first ER visit.

After Riley spent Wednesday and Thursday puking with a 104-degree fever, the pediatrician sent her to the hospital to get rehydrated. Of course by the time she was seen (after three hours of waiting), the fever was gone and the puking had ceased. Still, milestone nonetheless, right?

The Upside to Illness

2009-05-06T22:27:00.001-07:00

She lets me rock her to sleep.

Never-ending Story (aka Bedtime)

2009-05-04T23:01:00.000-07:00

Normally putting Riley to bed is a breeze.

But occasionally it's ~~brutality~~ an exercise in patience. Tonight, for example, she spent three solid post-bedtime hours calling out various requests, including (but not limited to):

potty time
different pajamas
more ice for her water
different pajamas
chap-stick
a snack
different pajamas
help re-swaddling Zelf

I blame today's 3 1/2 hour nap. But it seemed like such a good idea at the time...

Backyard Schmackyard

2009-05-01T15:47:00.000-07:00

We live across the street from a lovely catholic church whose grounds Riley has adopted as her backyard.

It's perfect: stairs to climb, retaining walls to jump off, nicely manicured lawns, and (the best part) no yard work for us.

Growing Up (Or Maybe Not)

2009-04-24T16:34:00.000-07:00

Riley's latest deep thought:

"I'm a big girl. I not a baby. I not need my ninos (pacifiers) anymore. [Long, thoughtful pause.....] Zelf need ninos. Zelf a baby!"

Vicarious living is for big girls, right?

It's Cold Out, Y'all!

2009-04-15T16:09:00.000-07:00

As Riley and I headed out for a walk yesterday, I asked her to put her coat on.

Her answer? "I not need a coat. It's sunny outside!"

Never mind that it was 48 degrees out. Around here, no rain means beautiful weather.

Which means just one thing: after two years in Portland, our Texas-born is officially Oregon-bred.

Easter Weekend: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

2009-04-13T22:58:00.000-07:00

The Good:
Three Easter egg hunts!

The bad:
The slacker mom forgot to bring a basket to two of the three hunts.

The ugly:

The candy binge-fest (and subsequent tantrum-fest).
The slacker mom became mean mom and threw out the remaining candy. (I'm not a total party pooper: I re-filled the eggs with pretzels and raisins...)

The Great Motivator

2009-04-08T23:04:00.000-07:00

Riley and I grocery shopped last night. Instead of strapping her into her stroller, I let her walk the three blocks to the store. I braced myself for the worst: dawdling, darting off, and general mischievousness.

She surprised me, though. She was a perfect angel, especially on the walk home.

When I praised her, she replied enthusiastically, "We hurry home to eat ice cream!"

Observant child knows my groceries well. (And guess what I rewarded her with...)

Fun for the whole family! (?)

2009-04-06T22:18:00.000-07:00

Colored dye and breakable eggs. Hmm. Who decided dyeing Easter eggs was a kid-friendly activity?

We had fun anyhow. At least when we weren't shielding the dye from Riley's reach.