Christmas is for Adventure

Before celebrating with the Chaput family for Christmas in Sedona, Justin and I joined some family and went to spend a day at the bottom of the Grand Canyon's Phantom Ranch. Although we had our doubts about being able to make it out of the canyon, everyone did really well. We enjoyed a night together sans the children. I think Justin missed the kids the most because he decided to practically run up the canyon to see them-too bad we still had a two hour car ride. Thank you to Grandma Chaput for watching the girls and allowing us to go on another adventure. Dad-thank you for helping me up that last bit of the canyon, I needed you.
We celebrated our Christmas with a new tradition-karaoke. I have to admit the Kung Fu Panda was my favorite, although all involved did a great job, even my John Denver...aka...Justin. Today, we are back to the grind. We are blessed with the ability to travel and be with family. Happy New Year to all!

Best Buddies

One of the best sounds to hear is that of children making the other one laugh. Lately, this happens a lot at our house. Harper cannot get enough of Luca and Luca seems to think that Harper's laugh is the funniest thing on earth. I wish they could be this way as teenagers too!

Happy Holidays

The time of year is upon us. I wish I meant the holidays, but I meant of winter sickness. I feel like I have had a cold for about three weeks. The kids both entered the month with ear infections, lending themselves to antibiotics and sick days from school. We finally started feeling better just in time for Grandma Chaput to come and visit for THANKGIVING! We were so happy to have her, even though she reminded us everyday that our weather is horrible. We are headed to Sedona for Christmas for a good old fashioned Griswald Christmas, we cannot wait.

Quickly

I have very easily and quickly discovered the true joy of having the girls. Luca lives for Harper and Harper lives for Luca. It brings both Justin and I such joy to see them interact. There is very little that Luca can do or say that does not make Harper smile and even sometimes giggle. I explained to Luca that although she might not see it now, later in life, Harper will be her "best buddy." For about three weeks Luca called Harper "my best buddy," this was so cute. I think this will only get better as Harper gets older and can play more with Luca, then again, that is when the real test of sharing will come too.

In Time for Fall

Where did the time go?

I cannot believe it is September! Luca started going to preschool two days a week and seems to really enjoy it. I am happy when she asks on her days off if she can still go. Harper continues to be an added joy with her easygoing demeanor and laid back style. Justin is working hard and I returned to work. Other than that, as Justin says, we are leaving the dream.

Just Fun Stuff

Lego Land-Party of 17

Santa Monica Pier (Also my favorite adventure!)

Around the World....Well not Really!

With the help of Grandma Chaput, Lauren, Luca and Harper left Omaha on June 30th for our official vacation. Justin stayed back to work, only to drive and meet us later. I will not go into that.
This year we were lucky to have a beautiful wedding planned that got a lot of wonderful people together for celebration. In addition, Luca and Harper got to meet their new cousin, Siri. Siri is part of the Fischer clan from India. For two weeks, we vacationed in Southern California with the Bensings, Knokes, and the Fischers. As the wedding grew closer, we were able to see some of our extended family and friends from back home. We had a wonderful trip, until we began the journey back. We did survive, so I should not complain. I have posted pictures of our adventures.

Never the Same

June 10, 2010 at 1239pm, we welcomed to our family, Harper Collins. Weighing in at 7lbs and 8 ounces, Harper's arrival marked the end of chapter in our lives. Now that she has arrived, a new story begins.
Much to Justin's dismay, the ultrasound was correct and Harper was in fact "another" girl. While he mentioned that she could potentially be a boy about twenty times during the pregnancy, now that she is born I have not heard so much as a peep out of him about it. I think he was instantly in love with the other princess in his life.
As many of your knew, I was very anxious for Harper's arrival for many reasons, but most certainly because I was very nervous about how it would much it would change Luca's life. As always, she amazed me. Luca was in love with Harper, the second she laid eyes on her, just like the rest of us. I cannot wait to see how she takes on her role as a big sister.