Coldani Family

Tahoe, Giada turns 3, Gino eats!

2012-01-25T21:13:00.000-08:00

This past weekend we headed to Tahoe with about 8 of Mike's college buddies and their families. It is such a fun group - we have a blast when we get together. Last year we went to Avila and this year we thought we would head to the snow! We headed up Friday night and there was ZERO snow. But it worked out perfectly, it snowed for 12 hours on Saturday, was so much fun to play around in and stopped for our drive home Sunday. Thank you Renee and Caroline for organizing this year - can't wait for the next one! The best part of the weekend was the Busalacchi's saying they would take Giada for a week and return her potty trained!! Hope you remember that Marc :)

Tali brought princess dress up clothes, the girls were so cute, and kept switching back and forth... here you have Snow White and Tinkerbell!

Dinner anyone??

Fun in the snow!

Aubrey loved it and was stomping all around.

Nicole was teaching the kids the best way to make snow angels!

For some reason she enjoyed eating the snow!

Kernal gave all the kids tons of sled rides, then D decided he would try to take Giada. She was all for it, then he said "you're too heavy" it was so funny!

This place had a great sledding hill nearby. We all headed over and the kids and adults had a blast. Gino was strapped into the Ergo and fast asleep so we watched as Mike and Giada went up the hill. He was as surprised as I that she wanted to go down the hill alone. She would have done it 100 times if we let her. All the kids went alone and loved it!

The girls were so sweet to have a birthday party for Giada on Saturday night.

She woke up from her nap to Tinkerbell decorations, party hats, and purple cupcakes!

Emily was such a good helper opening gifts!

Thank you friends!

Love my new fairy wings and Tinkerbell shoes!

All the kiddos (Minus McKella) on the couch! It's the best group shot we could get!

After a weekend of 8 kids 3 and under.....hope you guys haven't changed your mind!! Chris is a darling expectant momma...we can't wait to meet "Brady" in May!

We let the kids stay up so late each night since they were just enjoying playing and dancing with eachother. Giada grew to like uncle Timmer!

Gino had some real food this week. He is eating a little rice cereal. He seems to like it so -so, the problem is he starts laughing or talking when I feed him and then it comes flying back out! He is such a smiley guy!

Sunday Giada turned 3!! I can't believe she is already 3, but she is so much fun. Although this age can have it's challenges; their is much more laughter. The things she comes up with to say all day long are constant entertainment! She brings us so much joy!

She will have many birthday celebrations this week so Sunday, we just laid low once we got home and watched the Niner game. Great season, bummer way to go out!

Although sometimes she can be rough with him...she loves her brother, and making him laugh, makes her laugh!

She has been reading a lot to him lately....Chicka Chicka Boom Boom

Stella Jean!!, Preschool, & Fancy Food Show

2012-01-18T21:52:00.000-08:00

How could I forget to announce that I'm going to be an aunt!!! My brother and Steph are due mid June and have just found out they are having a little girl! We are all so excited and can't wait for Stella Jean. I'm sure you will see quite a lot of her on this blog, and Steph's growing belly once she starts showing!! So exciting!! They are working on the room now - more to come!!

This weekend we had the Fancy Food Show in SF. It is such a fun show to just see if you ever get a chance. Thousands of vendors with new products, from all over the world. This was our first year with our own booth. It was a long three days, but worth it. The new flavors should be available soon but were well received at the show. Buddha's Hand Citron, Garlic & Garlic Jalapeno. Not the best pics, but it gives you an idea of our booth.

Have you ever seen this before? Buddha's Hand Citron

While we were away Nana & Pops took care of Giada and Sydney. Thanks again! She loves spending time with them, and doesn't even seem like she misses us, although we missed her!

They sent us funny pictures throughout the weekend...

Gino came with us to the show, and we all took turns watching him. It can be challenging with an infant at a trade show, but lucky for us he is really a good baby, very easy going.

This week Giada hit a big milestone - Pre-school! We found a class that will take her in a 3 yr old class and take her semi-potty trained. SCORE! Most want to put her in a 2 year old class, since they judge the child's age in December and she turns 3 in January. It's only Th/Fri from 12:30-3 but so far she seems to love it. She got to bring show and tell this past week, and PJ day this week. Fun stuff.

Her buddy Seve started school too! Fun for them to have a familiar face in class. Although Giada doesn't seem to care that I leave her there. She runs right off, barely saying Goodbye! Another funny thing their is another "Giadda" in her class. She spells it with 2 "d's" but still pretty funny- who would have thought!

I have a lot of Giadaisms to post but I will save them for next week when I have more time...Gino turns 6 months tomorrow - so kiddo update next week!

Graeagle Bear

2012-01-11T15:17:00.000-08:00

How could I forget to post the pic we always take on the Graeagle Bear??

This winter they have him covered up from the snow....so we just let him peek his head out, and it was requested I be in the photo which was probably a good thing so Gino didn't take a tumble off Mr. Bear!

Graeagle & Kanters goodbye

2012-01-09T17:12:00.000-08:00

Kanters have decided to go on an adventure for a year so we had a get together to say goodbye to them. The kids enjoyed ice cream and visits with their aunties. Have fun Kanters- we can't wait to hear about your adventure! Let us know when you are there safe!

Trip to the park. She requested the photo then gave me this face! Oh to be almost 3!

We went on a family trip to Graeagle this past weekend. It was nice and relaxing, so glad we went. Super weird to not see any snow on the ground. It was cold but beautiful weather. Giada was excited to push her new "case" all on her own. Giada kept looking out at the windows of the condo and saying she liked the "tree mountain" I was also happy - we saw one deer and as long as I see atleast one I'm happy!

We headed up the mountain and found some old snow, Giada enjoyed stomping around.

Gino visits & New Years

2012-01-05T15:07:00.000-08:00

This week we had a visit from Gino and Erica. It's always nice when friends come through town. We had a nice visit and lunch with them. Erica is due in a few weeks so Gino was getting some baby holding practice...all while trying to convince Gino to become a Bengals fan :)

Random pic from the week

Giada said "mom look I fit!"

Giada loves putting a leash on everything and pretending to walk them - people, stuffed animals etc. So since we decided not to get a puppy...this was the next best thing. A dog toy you can walk. I didn't think she would want to take it to the dog park - lol

She isn't too creative with the animal names and always chooses the names of pets we already have :)

New Years this year we wanted to go to Graeagle, but since we were just recovering from being sick and we weren't convinced Giada was 100% we decided to stay home. We also had no babysitters so we decided to stay in for New Years. We cleaned the garage that day, not fun but glad to have that done, then had some cocktails and a dance party with Giada. I think some friends felt bad for us to be stuck at home, so we had different visitors throughout the night and before we knew it - it was 4 AM and there was indoor beer pong! Sorry I didn't get pics of everyone ...Steph, Lynz, Matt thanks for coming by, and Sheps too(even though you were no longer in costume!)

Giada stayed up until 2!! And don't you even think for a minute she slept in!

7AM she was wide awake!!

Happy New Year!

The Baszlers

The Diehls....4 takes and Trent still isn't smiling (But at least his eyes are open!)

Cheers!

Mother/Daughter Pics, Christmas, GG Update

2012-01-02T21:25:00.000-08:00

Mother Daughter Party Pics! This year Hilder hosted and we had to wear a hat or hair flair!

Everything was beautifully decorated, and delicious! A few pics from the fun night out!

Sorry for the delay in this Christmas post. Giada got the flu on Christmas eve, and it took us down for about a week. Mike and I got it too, and gave it to about 12 family members! We felt terrible! We are all on the mend now to start this new year off healthy! The kids have hardly been sick, so I can't really complain, but this one got us good!

We had a nice Christmas, everyone is so generous and the kids get spoiled of course.

The week leading up to Christmas we had a visit from the Deans as they took their roadtrip up north. The girls had a great time playing and making Gingerbread houses. Adj and I quickly realized you needed some skills and we need to work on ours! "Sticky fingers" the girls kept saying. They definitely ate more frosting and candy than they put on the house!

Giada kind of gets Santa this year. She enjoyed putting out carrots and cookies for santa and his reindeer but then didn't understand that he came while we were sleeping and why she couldn't see him, since we had been seeing him around all month. :)

In the morning we asked her if santa had come " no santa isn't here yet"

Then she said " no santa isn't here yet, he is talking to Chippy" Chippy is our elf on the shelf.

Christmas Morning

I love snow globes!

Gino was content just eating his new toys

A few family pics....

We are glad you guys moved home!

Gino testing out his new hat

I love my new Cinderella doll!

Giada has been enjoying her new scooter this week - Thanks Matt & Steph!

Even Minnie gets a ride!

Slow and Steady...lol....

She put these bubbles on her chin and said "a beard like daddy"

Gino sleeps like this all the time. Always up on knees, they are all red every morning when he wakes up.

Funny we caught the tongue out!

Gino already is loving his Sophie

Gino update

- Can you believe he is 5 months already?

- Not really sleeping all that much better, but I'm working on it. He will do some 3 hour chunks, which I'll take!

- Gino rolling all over the place and getting up on all 4's and rocking

-Scooting everywhere and sliding along the floor and quick!

- He has dimples

-Eyes are still blue

-Arches back when he doesn't want something

-Pulling and grabbing at everything

Giada

- She is very particular these days...the other day she got very upset in the car because she wanted a purple carseat - her new favorite color

- I thought she would like seeing the train go by when we were downtown and instead she started crying and said " I dont want to see box cars, I want to see tank cars"

- Hugs Gino and tells him " you are the best brother ever"

- We are working on potty training and one day she yelled " Tell that elf I went pee pee in the potty!" Unfortunately all the progress we made has been lost on the potty training during this flu bug :(

- "I can hear really well, I have big ears like an ostrich" Where does she come up with this stuff

- She has started putting clothes on all her babies, which is a change from her wanting them to always be naked

- One night Giada told Mike " I want to sit on your lap" he said, ok but only if you dont date boys until you are 19... she says " oh dad"

Family pics, Kid pics, Santa & more!

2011-12-19T07:59:00.000-08:00

Here are a couple family pictures we did not long ago with Stephanie Moe Photography! We are so lucky to have so many photographer friends - Gino changes so quickly, it's been fun to take so many! Thanks Steph!
This weekend was the annual Coldani Cookie weekend. We baked ALL day yesterday, a fun tradition. Giada was slightly more helpful this year!

Gino spent some time in the jumper!

The holiday season would not be complete without a trip to see Santa. She jumped up on his lap no problem! But, she did want me to give the message to Santa! Don't worry I was happy to tell him that if she didn't finish up this potty training ...maybe Santa wouldn't make it to our house this year!!!!

This week Giada had a bit of the flu, but we still managed to make it to the Polar Express. What fun for the kids - we went with the Kerns and Busalacchi's on a train adventure! More pics to come when I get them from the girls.
When we were in Venice a couple weeks ago my friend Julie, with Thrive Photography snapped these of the kids. Wouldn't it be fun to have a photographer around all the time to capture your children. They always turn out just slightly better than the pics I take :) Thanks again Hager!

Isn't this face classic!

We were trying to make Gino laugh for the above pic, then Giada came over to join in the fun, and apparently I was cracking them up. I love this pic of them laughing!!

Happy Birthday Sofia! Fun birthday party at Magical Place in Galt.

Giada enjoyed running around with the Luiz boys!

She asked me "How'd I get these stickers on my face?"

Giada loves making her brother laugh, and with that wild hair she can usually make it happen pretty quick! If she doesn't let me start combing it soon....it may not be long for long!

Holiday Happenings!

2011-12-16T00:11:00.000-08:00

This week has been jam packed like no other! Holiday activities with friends, and lots of oil projects to work on. Calivirgin extra virgin olive oil and Calivinegar Balsamic were picked up at Williams Sonoma stores nationwide, so we are super excited to see how that partnership goes! Everyday we are shipping off packages all over the country, we are so thankful for all our new and returning customers!!

Last week we stopped by the Diehls to grab dinner and let the girls play. They are so sweet together and Bre had their very own table set up for dinner...which they were thrilled about!

Giada has been doing gymnastics for a couple years now, once in awhile I remember to snap a few pictures. She will soon be out of parent tot classes and on her own. This also means I don't have to be in the Holiday Program next year...yippee :)

I don't have the video of the show ready but here are a few pics from the Gymnastics Holiday Show. This year was a Disney theme. Giada and her friend Claire Nuss.

Playing around while they waited to do the finale

This weekend was our annual Mother Daughter Christmas Party. This year it was in Sac and hosted by Hilder. We had someone come take all the photos, so I don't have many yet...but here are a few previews- with the required hair flair! Thanks Hilder- it was amazing!!

A few of us got together Friday night at Waterloo for dinner and drinks! We shut that place down. Lots of good food and laughs!!

Bre @ BW Photography still has openings this weekend!

Super cute set, love how the photos turned out!

Birthdays! We know lots of people with December birthdays!

We went to a pizza party for Seve - he turned 3, and gave me a super cheesy smile when I requested a photo!! Happy Birthday Seve!

Preston turned 4! The kids had a blast at the construction themed gymnastic party! We will miss you when you are off on your adventure this year! Keep in touch! Happy Birthday Preston!

My Aunt Ran had a birthday too! We went to celebrate with her this weekend.

Happy Birthday Ran!

This pic I forgot to post a few weeks ago. Gino got to meet his 2nd cousin and Great Aunt!

Thank you Pinterest....glowsticks in the bathtub...would have never thought of it, but so much fun!

Giada got an early Christmas gift from friends...fort kit...she loves it! Flashlights and forts...what else do you need??

Gino always laughs at whatever Giada is doing....but dressing him up in headbands...he doesn't seem thrilled..

AND last but certainly not least my new favorite pic of the kids!

Light Parade, Venice, & SLO

2011-12-07T13:34:00.000-08:00

December is here....how did that happen???? Well since it's here we might as well start celebrating right?? Lodi Light Parade always gets us in the holiday spirit. We had a big group this year(although we couldn't get everyone in one picture), kids loved seeing Santa on the Firetruck, and the weather was great!

Then early the next morning, I headed down south with both kids for an adventure! Call me crazy, but it turned out better than expected. We made it to Venice in 6 hours, and only 2 stops. Had fun catching up with the girls Friday night at Jens, and the reason for the trip - Jen's baby shower on Saturday. The mustache bash came together and Baby Boy Schweitzer was spoiled rotten! Thanks Jen and Garreth for having us!!

Mustache Bash!

Mimosa Bar!

Photo Booth provided some fun. The big question...smile or not smile in mustache pics???

Thanks Aunt Julie for running around with Giada!!

College Friends!

The prego girls!

I didn't get any pictures but we also had a wonderful visit with the Noriegas before heading to SLO Sunday afternoon. Thanks for having us over and hope to see you in December!!

Then it was off to SLO for the night. Thanks Clarins for having us over!! We headed out on Monday to see the butterflies that are migrating through town.

What looks like big clusters of leaves are thousands of butterflies!Trying to get 4 kids in a pic, impossible....but atleast they are all looking, this is the best one we got!

After butterflies....off to the beach. Giada and Addy were so brave, and didn't seem to care at all that the water was freezing!

Jackie and Jake met us for Firestones before we hit the road!

Julie Hager with Thrive Photography snapped a couple cute pics with her phone while we were out and about. Can't wait to see the others she captured of the kiddos!

And this is what we are getting a lot of lately.....wink eye!!

Giadaisms

- She just asked me today "is Jens baby still in her tummy or is it out and can run with me"

- We can say "oh man but not stupid and not shut up"

- Walking to the beach in Venice we come up on a guy with dreadlocks...we are standing right next to him and she points and says over and over "mom what is that guys crazy hair, what is that guys crazy hair" I just looked over and smiled, and said sorry she's never seen dreadlocks.....

- "mom mom mom Jules" apparently if I don't answer quick enough, she uses my real name!

Thanksgiving Activities!

2011-11-28T15:39:00.000-08:00

This week it was nice to visit with family and friends, we have so much to be thankful for! It was also nice to wrap up harvest and these Harvest Festivals. The 12+ hour days at these shows were getting to be too much for all of us! We will re-evaluate which shows to book next year! But you never know unless you try right???

Wednesday night my mom has been doing Thanksgiving for the past few years. It's nice to only have to go one place/day. Mike had to miss out because of harvest, it wasn't the same without him! Our attempt at a family pic is tough with 2 kids and my dads talking!!

Lately for photos we are getting weird faces or winking!!

Every year we do the 'Run for the Hungry' Thanksgiving 5/10K. Every year different people come, but usually KR, Linds, Gelbart and I are there. This year Trent, Scott, Gino and Giada joined us. Giada even did the kids run. She had fun, ...it was a long one for her age...then both kids camped out in the stroller while I did the 5K with Linds and KR. The other 3 did the 10K! Good luck this weekend at the CIM boys! It did start to drizzle but not towards the end of the run, I did NOT feel like going that morning but was so glad I did. Fun tradition.

Proud of her finishers ribbon!

Then our 2nd Thanksgiving meal at the Coldani's on Thursday. Such yummy food at both places - this is my favorite meal!!

Playing in the olives! (Wink eye!!)

Gino comes with us to the oil shows- lucky for us he is a good sport, we make him a little spot and he's all set! This will only work until he is mobile....this week he started rolling over!!

People say all kinds of things to us at these festivals...a few I have to share. They always comment on Gino, a few call him a girl, and as I was discreetly feeding him, with the hooter hider covering everything someone asked if I had a dog under there....a dog!!!! really?? What is wrong with some people. I realize some people have small dogs and take them everywhere but c'mon you can see the baby feet hanging out!!!

People try to teach you about the oils, tell you what is in them ...we've heard it all. But one favorite from the weekend was "Don't take this personal, but I don't like any of them" I laughed and said, "well everyone has a different paleae" It's entertaining that's for sure!

While we were away Giada went on some adventures with nana...

and Mya...

A visit to Grandma Carols always includes petting and feeding the horses!

Found my feet!

My sister can make me laugh!

Gino

- Found his feet

- Rolling over now. He always stuck on one arm, once he did it this weekend now he never stays in one place. It is fun to see him moving around.

-He is sleeping in his crib now. Twice he slept a 4 hour chunk of time, granted it was when I was still up...but progress right???

-Laughing a ton as you could see above

Giada

- She will draw something or make something with her food/toys and you have to guess the shape. Sometimes it's very difficult to tell! If you happen to get it she is so excited "Good job mom!"

-We were watching Toy Story 3 and she tells me "Ken sure likes that Barbie!"

-Potty Training is ongoing and not easy in our household. But the other day she went to the bathroom on the floor and said " It's ok, it happens, I'll clean it up!" lol that girl! We will get it one day...I hope it's one day soon!!!

- We saw a lady with gray hair and she YELLS out " Mom look that lady has white hair!" The lady looks at me and I just smiled.....

Here it is....

2011-11-22T17:25:00.000-08:00

Forgot to post this one last week too from our BW Photography photo shoot!

This week flew by, as does every week. We are in full swing of harvest, so Mike is very busy. I shouldn't complain as our harvest is only a few weeks compared to the months long grape harvest! This past weekend we also had another oil harvest festival. These are long 4 day events.....only 1 more to go, we will all be happy when those are finished up!!

Only took a few pics this week....here they are, including Gino's 4 month update, and a funny thing that a certain 3yr old said this week!

Gino is a big boy now - playing with toys for longer periods of time.

Now like most kids...they have their grandparents wrapped around their fingers...Giada is no different with her pops. She said the beard was scratchy.....so off it came!

Oh the double BOB...anyone who knows me well, knows I despise strollers and avoid them at all costs!! So the double BOB seems extra huge to me, but necessary - I realize! Well I have only ran a few times with it, so I signed up for a Thanksgiving 5K and the Shamrockin Half Marathon in March.....to try and inspire myself to run. Since it gets dark at 4:30 these days I can't wait for Mike to get him and run alone...so off we go! The first time out all these funny things happened I forgot to share. First off, I was a few blocks away and realized I didn't have a sports bra on but rather a nursing tank top....for those of you unfamiliar...that means ZERO support. But, I was too lazy to go back and decided to tough it out, it was only 2 miles I was going to attempt to run. Then I realize I'm the girl I make fun of running with her hair down! I had forgotten a hair tie. I tried to persuade Giada to let me take her hair down to use hers....and that was going no where. So now I'm the girl running un- supported on top and hair flowing in the wind! And as if things were already not going well Giada requested "her music" - I was playing it on speaker so we could all hear....and let me tell you running to the Toddler station on Pandora is NOT motivating. Well the run was not going well, I realized I was more out of shape than I had hoped, so about a mile in I was going to stop for a minute to grab a drink of water....as I did Giada says "Mom, why aren't you running" and Gino started crying. So off I ran. I did make it the 2 miles and haven't given up on the double BOB...BUT...when I ran the other day and they both fell asleep.....it was a nice peaceful run! :)

Playing around after bath!

The good ol monthly pics....they have already started to get challenging..... they all go downhill from here once he starts squirming around!!

Gino 4 Month Stats

- 14lbs 9.5 oz (43%)

- 25.6" (71%)

- Everyone says he looks so big, but actually he isn't so large on the charts, but growing that's for sure

- Still wakes up a TON at night, which we are working on!!

-Drooling a ton, but no teeth yet

Giada

-She is saying things such as "The most ridiculous thing I ever seen!" She doesn't say ridiculous very clear so its even funnier

- Potty Training :(

LONG Post - AZ wedding, Aubrey turns 1, Newborn Pics & Giadaisms

2011-11-16T15:33:00.000-08:00

This weekend Gino, my mom and I headed to Arizona to Sean and Jessica's wedding. Gino got his first plane ride...terrible pic below but he was great. Slept both ways and was a great traveler! It was a beautiful wedding, and a fun weekend traveling with my mom, Linds, and Terri!

Giada enjoyed a few hours with Seve while we headed off to the airport.

Yummy Cupcakes and group nap!

Arizona evening

Our moms and Fran!

Enjoyed the weekend catching up with Linds! xo

Josh and Ryan held their own on the dance floor!

Lovely Ladies!

Bruno was so cute with Gino!

Sum and her pops took a break from the dance floor to pose for my photo!

Congratulations Sean and Jessica Slawson!! -so happy we could be there to celebrate!

Right when we got back we headed to Aubrey's 1st birthday party. I can't believe she is a year old already, I remember waiting for her arrival entertaining D at the hospital. What a wonderful lady bug party it was - Great job Nicole!!

Gino spent a long time with his auntie that night. The girls enjoy his calm demeanour ...a little different than his sister was!

Gino was peacefully laying on the floor playing...Giada soon, joined him under the blanket and made room for D!

Lately Giada has been seeing this picture and thinks it is me holding Gino and asked me why it was in her room - she thinks most baby pictures now are Gino.

This picture is of Giada about the same age as Gino...they look pretty similar don't you think??

Giada and Gino are both growing up so quickly! Look at this smiley guy!

I never got a chance to post these pics we took when Gino was a new little guy. We took them with Bre at BW photography. We kept having to cancel the appt due to Gino's little trip to Oakland in the first few weeks...so these were about 5 weeks old. There is a reason you take them in the first or second week when the baby is sleeping!! It was more challenging at this age and took us forever to get him asleep.

We took some out at the ranch as well!

Our new family of 4!

Gino-

-Still enjoys time by himself playing around

- Found his feet and loves to grab them

- Enjoys grabbing and playing with toys

- Starting to laugh, we have yet to get it on video yet

-Good eater, bad sleeper - he is moving to his crib this week! Hope it helps!!

-He has one dimple like me :)

- His eyes are still super blue

Giada

- She is definitely 2 and reminds you of that throughout the day!! She definitely wants to do things her own way, but then will say the sweetest thing and you forget she was just being so challenging!! They have us hooked at such a young age! :)

-Potty training is STILL in progress. I think I make progress and then step back :(

-Have had a few days without nap....but then she can't make it to the end of the night, nor am I ready to give them up. She still goes to bed late 10ish and gets up 6ish! Apparently my kids need little sleep.

Giadaisms

-One day she gets up from her nap...."you're the best mom ever, Gino you're the best brother ever!"

-Lately if Gino is crying she runs over and says "Gino you need me? I'm right here!" " Gino you want me? Here I am!"

- Headed to SLO a few weekends back and we told her we were going to the beach. It started raining on the way and she said "how are we going to go to the beach?" and then we stopped at Harris Ranch, she gets out of the car and says " I dont see the beach" I'm always surprised at the observations at such a young age.

- I told Giada she had to eat a roll roll (which is a piece of deli meat rolled up, the name she picked up from her friend Dylan) she answers " are you serious, here I go, don't change your mind"

SLO Alumni Weekend

2011-11-06T19:02:00.000-08:00

Girls dinner this week for Evie's bday..fun to catch up with the girls and have a delicious dinner at Cafeteria 15L. We couldn't take a pic that night without our zombie eyes! :(

This weekend was the annual trip to SLO for softball alumni weekend. Most all of our friends make it each year and it's a great time to catch up this year we had a big turn out but were missing Nessa!!! Of course it's fun to bring the kids and let them all play together, since we don't see each other often, but it makes for a different trip. Maybe we will do every other year with kids. :)

Another important thing to do while in SLO is eat at all the favorite sports. This time we managed our first lunch at Konas. They rebuilt after the original burned down- Hillary it reminded us of all our days spent working there. The same popular sandwiches were there with some new additions! And yes, I was the dork who told them I used to work there....they didn't care, and said that it happens all the time. :)

Randomly the Avansino's were in town for Moni's work and their anniversary. So we met them at the beach for a bit. The girls enjoyed running around despite the rain and COLD weather. We walked the pier and Giada loved seeing some sea lions swim around! I always call her Frannie, and as Giada says " Her name is Francesca not Frannie!"

Then we headed down the street for hot chocolate and the girls ended up with ice cream then lollipops! Isn't vacation fun!?!? And I found a new favorite Peppermint latte!! Why did I only think Peppermint could go in a mocha! I'm in love with my new latte!

We spent Friday night at Freitas house there were a TON of people and kids running around - thanks for letting us take over your house Jacks!

Saturday before the game we headed to the Avila Barn with the Clarins. It's such a cute place. The kids got to feed animals, enjoy a hay ride, and eat some roasted corn!

The kids were smiley- playing around at the hotel..."our house" as Giada called it!

Our friend group at Alumni Game

Current players at past alumni in attendance!

Giada watched the game ....for about 12 seconds...

Then spent the rest of the time running around...

After the game of course we had to hit Firestone for lunch! Both kids were passed out, hard to believe they could sleep with all that noise. The food there never disappoints. Then it was off to happy hour at our hotel before the girls hit the town. We were able to snag a few pics before they took off to "make memories" - We headed to Tahoe Joes! Loved all our meals while we were in town.

Thanks Zac for entertaining Giada during Happy Hour!!

On the way home we stopped to get some snacks. Giada picked out this gummy alligator for me. It was huge! She never ended up eating it, but would pet it, have it drive on the steering wheel with me, and she fed it some crackers too. This alligator was living the life in our car!

Gino looks pretty small in Giadas chair but is becoming a big boy! He was of course great in the car and on the trip. As long as he is fed, he is a happy boy!

Great weekend girls!! Until next year....or until you make that trip to Lodi ;)

Disney on Ice & Halloween!

2011-11-03T16:40:00.001-07:00

This past weekend we went with the Bushalacchi's to Disney on Ice. My photos suck, but the kids had a great time. We did too and Pizza Rock before the show was yummy. Definitely rivals Hot Italian, but I think Hot Italian is still my favorite! Giada was excited to see Captain Hook & Tinkerbell her new favorite characters. I loved the animals of the Lion King series. Great to see you Bush's - glad you live closer!!

This year Auntie Kristen had the idea for us all to be Giants Super Fans....so everyone chose different players or Orange/Black spirited outfits. So...Gino was Pablo"The Panda" Sandoval and Giada was "Lou Seal" The Giants Mascot! Her costume was challenging, but it worked out. Thanks mom for helping me make it!! As Giada would say she was "Mou Seal Mascot"

Every year we take our pictures with Bre at BW photography downtown while we trick or treat at the shops. The kids have a blast and Bre is patient with our growing group!

Giada and her buddy Dylan...I mean Cody Ross!

JZ as Brian Wilson.....he wouldn't keep the beard on but looked cute as ever!

Peyton the princess!

Saturday night we went to a Halloween Party...costumes below, some people are clever. Not me in the cowgirl outfit! Thanks mom and Jeanne for watching the kids. And yippee for Gino taking a bottle!

Jack and Jill ...after they rolled down the hill! lol!

Sunday - carving day! Painting for the kids. They would not both smile for a pick, but had a blast painting and running around. Funny to watch two kids paint with the same materials. Dylan was careful with one color at a time...Giada on the other hand, mixed them all together, was a total mess and had a brown pumpkin!

Mikes pumpkin carving is amazing. It takes him hours and he has so much patience while doing it. Here are this years creations!

On actual Halloween, we did a little trick or treating to family and friends before coming home to hand out candy. Mike's parents and sister/brother in law came over for our tradition of handing out candy and having dinner. So fun to have Gina and Scott living in town now!! Giada got so excited running to the door to see the kids. She would periodically say " I go check and see if there are more" and run out to the sidewalk to check out the scene. I'm pretty sure she ate only candy and nothing substantial that day....but it's only one day right!?!? I asked her how many pieces she had, her answer "2, 3, 4, 5, 6,"....atleast she is honest!

New glasses from Grandma Carol and Patsy

Trick or Treat!

Gino 3 months, Giadaisms, & Harvest Party

2011-10-25T14:49:00.000-07:00

Randoms from the week.....

Both of my kids LOVE bath time. Giada would stay in all night if I let her!

When I'm holding Gino, Giada likes to jump in my arms and say "you have 2 kids" or "you have both kids" and she thinks it's so funny when I carry them both. This time Gino was sleeping so she was pretend sleeping..even snoring!

We still go to gymnastics every week. The place has been undergoing a remodel, so we had some make up classes. We have been doing some at night with Frannie Avansino. So much fun to see her and Moni each week.

Giada loves jumping in the ball pit.

Mike has been wanting me to have Sydney shaved forever! I never wanted to do it but finally gave in. She seems to love it, but looks like a lab not a golden! But there is less hair shedding...which I love!

Where does the time go?? 3 months already! We had someone invade our photo-shoot once again!

Then she read him one of her favorite stories, which was super cute!

Thought it was funny to see how much bigger he has gotten...this is the newborn going home outfit. Not fitting quite so well anymore!

This past Saturday we had our Harvest Party. We spent a good deal of time at the ranch helping out to get ready. Needed some olive branches for the decor!

A sampling of the delicious foods made with the oil and vinegars inside....

And the delicious pizza outside!

Tasting Bar! Popcorn, caprese salad and ice cream bar!

Coldani Clan

Giada spent a great deal of time dancing to the band...or jumping rather...

They even gave her an instrument to play with at one point!

Great Grandma Barbara got a little Gino time before the party. ...

The rest of the night he was passed around in the arms of family and friends!

Gino update....3 months

-Very content unless he is hungry

-Still sleeps poorly...shocker!

- Started grabbing and playing with toys, puts his hands in his mouth a lot too

- Talking, smiling, laughing...

- Loves the Ergo Carrier

- Kicks his arms and hands constantly, which is what he did in the belly!

Giada update

- She walked up to me and said to Gino "best baby I've ever seen"

- Started an art class this week

- She started calling me "mama" not sure what happened to mom

- She tells Gino "don't give me one of those slobbery kisses"

- Taught Gino to give Eskimo kisses

- Always tells him " when you get bigger and bigger".... you can have a mango, you can have a cracker, etc etc

-She has a tendency to eat with her fingers sometimes because it's faster. So we started telling her what is a fork food, or finger food. So now she is constantly telling you what is a fork food, spoon food etc....not sure what we started, but it does work.

- Giada has been picking up Mikes running watch. She told me the other day " It says lots of letters, not time for nap" I just laughed

Pumpkin Patches, Dylans Bday, Giada/Gino Update

2011-10-17T15:11:00.000-07:00

This was the week of pumpkin patches for us...and I'll have to say I'm pumpkin patched out! Each was unique and different, and fun to see different groups of friends...but I've had my fill until next year I think! :)

We love when our teacher friends are on vacation! Giada, Steph & I got to spend the day with Bre and Peyton at Willow Fog Pumpkin Patch in Wilton. What a cute place. It was busy in the morning with all the kids there on field trips, then cleared out and the girls had the place to themselves!

The girls were very concerned about this little goat that kept getting out on the other side of the fence. So they kept feeding it all their food!

Tickle...tickle ....tickle....

Say cheese!

The girls were very serious about their water pumping!

Thanks Auntie Steph for the free ride!

Peyton loved the horse swing ...

And Giada loved the telescope...

Snack time before the hay ride.

Day 2 we were off to Joans Farm in Livermore to meet up with Cuneos and Lorbers. Giada is very "2" these days. We have a day of excellent listening and good behavior...and the next day might not be quite as great! Good thing is on those days...there is always tomorrow! This was one of those days. Cute place, we had a picnic and fed the animals. Giada and Tali would have been happy just feeding those animals all day! We wandered around, the girls played with pumpkins, trains, hay bails, and the corn maze! Jenny and I will have to admit - we did get lost and I wasn't sure we weren't going to have to rummage our way through the corn stalks to get out. Jenny found the exit somehow. It was quite the maze for our mom and pop pumpkin patch! Looking forward to our next play date girls.

Day 3 - Annual trip to Phillips Farms. For this age Phillips is perfect. I don't think they have updated a thing since the 80s...but that's just how you remember coming as a kid, so that makes it okay! Marla and JZ joined us, it was a great visit with them, and we ran into the Hilders for lunch - what a treat! Giada enjoyed Kerry of course feeding her bacon and soda!

Annual picture in the pumpkin head!

Giada took his hand and was showing him around....

Loves Raggedy Ann..and thought she needed a hug

After the Turkey tried to eat JZ's finger Giada said "Lets get out of here, that turkey is being mean"

I asked her, "Where are you going on your tractor ride??" "San Diego" she answers.....how does she come up with this stuff. When have we even talked about San Diego! Adj, Hager, Jess, Filices....Guess she is ready to come visit!

Photo opp...not going so well, the sun was in their eyes, among other things...good thing the month is only half over...many more opportunities ahead!

She is still talking about holding the baby bunny.

Thanks nana for the free ride!

Oops...don't forget Gino too!

Annual pic! We love nana being retired :)

Saturday we had an oil event at Williams Sonoma in SF. I love getting pictures when I'm away. Giada spent a lot of time playing with her dolls that she has named "Gina & Scott"

Dylan turned 3! They celebrated in Disneyland, but Giada wanted to celebrate with her friend too. So, we invited ourselves over on Sunday and the kids had a great day playing and celebrating. Any excuse for a cupcake ...right!? Happy Birthday D!

Earlier this week we found a frog in the back of Mike's truck. It was the highlight of the day. We kept it for a few hours until we could convince her to put it in the water fountain with the fish. But we told her she should name it. She said... Holy Moly(my parents frog name) or Patsy(her great aunt) Mike and I laughed and said...you want to name it Patsy? And she said no...Patsy is a peoples name. She has a thing with Patsy about frogs and every frog is associated with Patsy, but its funny every time.

Giada Update

- Very into pretending....this morning she had her umbrella and she told Mike it was raining...he said I dont see any drops.... she says we can pretend! And sure enough in a few moments the whole family was being kept safe from the rainstorm under the umbrella. Another favorite she has is sharks are on the ground and you have to jump up onto whatever is around (couch, chair, bed) to make sure they don't get you!

Another one...she was playing in the garage and came in with Mikes cowboy boots on.."Dad you want some money?" He says "where" She says "in my boot" and pulls out cat food... He says "thats not money, thats cat food" " No, its not cat food, it's money, we can pretend"

- If you go out to the garage or out of her sight...when you come back she asks "How was your trip?" So you have to come up with a clever answer and she says "How was my trip?" ...wanting you to ask her back, it's cute.

- Any other parents kids watch Mickey Mouse Club....then you know about Funny Bunny Pete...often we are on the lookout for him! He is hiding everywhere at our house.

- She will walk around with her eyes closed pretending to be sleeping....and sometimes walks right into something (wall, table) she thinks it's hysterical.

- She is using words like "yesterday, tomorrow, Sunday" it all means anything other than today

- I told her she was a good girl when she got her hair cut the other day, she answered " yeah, I know"

- Potty training has stopped. I'm over it for now and need a break. :) It is half working.....Keep you posted and spare you the details here!

-One of her favorite games is "I was on a walk and I saw....." we go back and forth for a long time...you'd be amazed at what we come across on our walks!

Gino

- 3 months old, I can't believe it

- Easy, calm baby...really only gets upset when he is hungry and he lets you know real quick

- Sleeps the same, few hours at a time, nothing really too great

- Apparently he has rolled over. I guess he did at the Kerns Sunday but I was playing with the older kids and missed it....I'm still not convinced ;) but Ill be watching for it!!

- Smiling a lot, almost laughing

- Enjoying swing and bouncer more often

- Real good head control still

- Loves being on his tummy and standing up, just like Giada

- Might....move him to his crib soon

- Likes being swaddled at night

Haircut!

2011-10-11T15:09:00.000-07:00

So...Giada does not like her hair brushed...every few days I have to force it. We are trying a new plan - after bath, she takes the brush to Mike and sometimes she lets him brush it. Either way we get a lot of resistance. Her hair is getting long, and is half curly- half straight. We thought that maybe if we went to Stephs salon she would think it was a fun adventure and let Steph trim her hair, rather than where we normally do it, in our kitchen! Thats a perk of having a sister in law who does hair - haircuts in the comfort of your own home.

Anyway...the plan worked!!

The ponytail the day before the hair cut was especially bad!

She sat so still for the shampoo...

Sitting pretty still, but getting restless....so we moved to the floor!

Thanks Auntie!

This weekend Calivirgin was at the Lodi Treasure Island Wine Show. It was a fun event, and always neat to see the Blue Angels show that was going on all day. Gino of course tagged along with us. He is a trooper on all our oil trips. He was so smiley all day, but not for our pic!

Giada spent the day with nana while we were away...they headed off to the Japanese Gardens and a picnic in the park. This kid has no shortage of fun!

Giadas been very into hiding lately. Usually she makes some sort of animal noise or scream to help you find her.

Lately I have been on an organiziation mode! I have given away so much! Closets cleaned out, drawers in all rooms and the playroom!! Giada was "helping" as she pulled things out of the Goodwill pile that she insisted she needed...... so I just put them back in the pile when she wasn't looking :)

In the process of cleaning the playroom I took some toys up to her room since she has been playing in her room more, and now she thinks they are new! Before nap one day she had to rock her baby to sleep first.

2 mon update, Giada goes to the zoo, mud & more!

2011-10-03T19:14:00.000-07:00

One day this week Heather and I went on a walk to get coffee then took the kids to the park. Of course they find the only mud hole and would rather play there than the swings, slide etc! But they were occupied and we got to chat so fun morning all around!

This weekend was the Lodi Street Faire. We ventured out there Sunday morning with Matt, Steph, Mom and friends. Boy was Giada glad Matt came along! Not only did he give her a free ride on his shoulders, and get her a 10am snow cone...

They rode the tea cups...

And the big slide. Thanks uncle Matt!

Mike and I are both so lucky to have our parents in town. They get to see the kids on almost a daily basis. Saturday we need to do a MUCH overdue garage and yard cleaning. It is a little easier to do those things without Giada "helping" - so she went on an adventure with my mom to the zoo. She wanted to meet Mr. and Mrs. Micke.....

And after a summer of having me feed the Lorakeets apparently she fed them herself....3x...I don't believe it!!

Picnic lunch at the park too! Thanks mom for watching her and thanks Jeanne for watching her that night so we could go bowling with friends!!

Well I'm happy to report BlueFish is still alive. We found him like this one morning....Giada apparently gave him the whole food shaker and almost pulled him off the shelf. I'm surprised myself he didn't OD....but he seems alive and well.

Forgot to post the 2 month Gino pictures. It's fun to take them every month. This time we had an intruder on our photo shoot....

And usually I take a few before I turn the flash off....he always looks freaked out in the beginning about why again we are taking these...

BUT ...then you get a couple like these below. My new favorite pics!!

2 Month Stats

- Weight 12lbs .5 oz

- Height 22.25"

-Great baby, only seems upset when he is hungry. Finally took a bottle! We are continuing to work on that so I could maybe go to dinner kid less!

-Sleeps as I expected, bad like his sister. Up every hour/2 hours....BUT last 2 nights slept 3 hr stretches and even a 5 hr stretch so I'm hopeful!!

- Talks a lot to us when he is awake and has started smiling a ton which is so fun to see his face light up.

- Likes to be on his stomach like his sister did

Giada Updates and Giadaisms

-Continues music and gymnastics classes

- Learning to wink

- Doesn't think you can see her with your sun glasses on, so she is constantly telling you to remove them to watch her do something

-The other day told me " Look at me, I'm trying to be dangerous" - Not sure where she got that one!

-Imagination runs wild these days, love the stories she tells. There is also a lot of pretend. "We can pretend" she always says.

-Everything is "What'd you say mom?" OVER and OVER even when she understood....it gets a little old by the end of the day :)

- She is big these days on telling you to either tip toe with "Hummingbird feet" or march with "Elephant feet"

- She was stomping on something of mine and when I asked her what she was doing, and why she was crushing my stuff she said " Sorry I step on your basket, it happens" I just laughed, what can you say??

-Out of the blue she tells me "Bats fly at night"

- The kids caught a praying mantis at the lake. This one turned brown and the ones we have had in the past were green, so we were discussing camouflage...she says to me"So if I put something blue in there it will turn blue!"

Play dates! Anniversary & Camping!

2011-09-28T16:10:00.000-07:00

Happy Anniversary to us! 5 years. Giada and Mike got me these beautiful flowers. We had an oil event so we will celebrate soon...once Gino takes the bottle so we can have a night out!! SOON I hope! :)

I forgot a few pics from last week! Brooklyn and Dub came to play with us one afternoon. Thanks for making the trip down Dub! B is getting so big!

Like many...she wasn't so sure about Giadas hugs.......

She was much happier when Giada was on her own chair! As I've mentioned before Giada likes to tell everyone what she is doing. Mostly it's Gino, but if he isn't around it's "tell Sydney" "tell that tree" or in this case "Tell Gino and tell that baby!" I guess she forgot Brooklyn's name!

Also forgot to post this cute pic of Linds! At brunch a couple weekends back when the girls were visiting, Gino was sleeping so contently I left him with the girls while I ran Jen to the airport. He was fine and enjoyed his time with his aunties! He sure looks content to me!

Super Franks with Lorbers and Cuneos! Last week we headed to Pleasanton to meet the girls. Super Franks is such a fun place for kids. Many different rooms for the kids to play, chair/tables/couches for the parents. Food service, even beer/wine! They had Food Network on the big screen but apparently also run the Football games on the weekends. Check it out!! www.superfranks.com

Can't wait for the next one girls!

Gino spent most of his time asleep..

Then woke up to join the party.

Giada enjoyed the dress up clothes

Tali did too!

Emily is a doll and about to start walking...she was so close! The kids had fun in the black light room!

Baby McKella ....2 days apart from Gino!

Girls enjoyed one last ride before leaving.

Then we went to Sacramento Children's Museum with Dylan and Nico! Fun place, A LOT going on in there and crowded. Nico didn't make any of the pics ;(

Water table area was a fun element that most of these places don't have..

Kids enjoyed the arts and craft area...especially the wall painting!

Working on a painting project!

Giada loved putting these scarves in this wall of tubes that would then shoot them out like "rain" she kept saying.

Aubrey is almost 1!! I can't believe it!

Nicole had the week off so we went on a walk to Starbucks and the park one morning, what a nice time it was. I got to test out the Double Bob. It's WIDE! But the kids seem to like it, I went on a run later in the week too. If I stopped for a second, Giada would say "Mom why aren't you running!" and Gino would start crying, so that was motivating not to stop. Then it was trash day so lots of people had them on the sidewalk. This thing is so wide I would go into the street to avoid the cans. Giada was quick to tell me "Get out of the street, it's dangerous, lots of cars!" LOL!

We tried to have a camping weekend Memorial weekend....and it rained. We tried to have a camping weekend this weekend and it was SUPER windy!! But we managed to still have a great time. Lots of people stayed over this time which is always fun for the mornings. Lots of trailers, some in cars, and tents! Big fun!

Gino got some time with his aunties...

Giada did some fishing....with dad and Scott. Giada was so funny. Scott caught a big fish and Mike caught a small fish. She told Scott and anyone else who would listen, " catch a small fish like my dad" It was so cute because she was just so proud of him for catching the fish even though it sounded funny to request the smaller fish.

Courtney caught her 1st fish!!

Friends came to play...

Some even ventured out into the water.

Aunt Kim, Cousin Katie and Uncle John came for a visit last week! We got to hear about the Europe trip and see Katie before she headed to Boston. Thanks for the visit. Jackie we missed you !

Look I can sit in the Bumbo chair now....my mom can't believe I'm old enough for that!

Giada enjoys sitting in it too now

It's been so hot and muggy the water table is still used on a daily basis!

Mike gave it a facelift and now it's good as new.

Finally he likes the swing.....but only for a few moments! If he doesn't start to like it soon, I'm getting this thing out of here, it takes up so much room!

Giants Game, Thrive Photography Pics, & Grape Festival

2011-09-19T15:19:00.000-07:00

I have to laugh each week. I think about what to put on the blog and think we didn't do much this week..... and then I look back .....things just come up! Last minute Giants tickets against the Padres. Game went into extra innings but the Giants get the win!! This is pretty much how Gino spent the game.

When my friends were visiting last week, Hager took a bunch of pictures of the kiddos. She has a photography business in San Diego - Thrive Photography - how fun it was to have her capture the weekend, wish I could have her everyday for the company and the photo taking!! Thanks Gar - it was hard to pick which ones to post...but here are a few.

We have some buckets in the backyard that hold balls, toys etc. Giada decided it was dirty and wanted to wash it off. So she dumped out all the toys and headed over to the hose....quickly the tub was filled with water and she decided it was hew new pool! She must have spent over an hour splashing around in there.

See...it's smaller than you thought wasn't it....

This picture below I like because this is how some of my days are spent. Holding this peaceful little baby, while watching Giada play. I feel so blessed to be able to stay home with the kids and watch them grow. But don't get any ideas...the day is not always this peaceful :)

Little Gino is growing up quickly!

Then we headed out to the lake to let Sydney take a swim....

And Giada to do some fishing.....or pretend fishing...she was trying to catch the minnows with her "fishing pole" aka stick!

There's another cute one with his tongue sticking out but I can't get it to post!!

This weekend, as all the locals know, was the Grape Festival. A once a year event in Lodi! I was at an oil event all weekend so Mike and Giada headed over for a day of fun. They fed all the animals at the bedding zoo....

Had a blast on the rides waving to everyone

And enjoyed some treats.

BEFORE

DURING

AFTER

Mike said they went through the Reptile Exhibit 3x! They were told this guy is 20 years old.....and apparently Giada requested to hold the head!!!!! Crazy girl!

Jeanne and I were off to the Pleasanton Harvest Festival this weekend. It was a LONG 4 days, and not our best event to say the least. We took Gino with us, he is such an easy baby it made our job easy.

Pickles, Applesauce, Friends Visit & Matt's Bday!

2011-09-14T16:44:00.000-07:00

The past couple weeks we have done some canning. It was time for our annual pickle making. Our photos were lacking this year, but the pickles are yummy.

Our helper did more eating than helping....

Steph helped out this year now that she's "officially" in the family :)

Then we made applesauce with Dylan and his Grandma Susan.

Dylan loved turning the handle!!

Then the kids ran off to play, they were following each other all around that day and repeating everything one another said. It was hilarious. I forget who they were calling here but it was a lengthy conversation!!

New straw glasses!

It's been hot so we have been making Popsicles! This week watermelon basil..yumm!

This picture doesn't show a smile, but he loves his bath time, so content!

7 weeks!

This weekend Jen and Hager came to visit! I've been friends with them both since college and we always have a great time when we are together. Lots of laughs this weekend, thank you girls for making the trip!!

Giada shared her bed with Jen this weekend and got her to read some of her favorite books. Giada kept calling them her friends. " Where did my friends go" "What's that ladies name?" And of course I told her Hager's name was Hager and not Julie! Funny to hear a kid say "Oh Hager"

Gino got lots of time with his aunties!

Matt turns the big 2-8 this coming weekend, but we had the family celebration early.

Of course someone snuck in to help blow out the candles!

More photos from the weekend to come.....

Weekend at Home!

2011-09-07T17:11:00.000-07:00

Shocking I know....but we had a weekend at home with no plans!! We quickly filled it up with BBQ's with friends. Watching the Giants play was torturous but spending time with friends never disappoints!

Play date with Nico! This week we finally got together with Renee and Nico! It was a great afternoon in Rocklin, fun to check out their new place and a delicious lunch! Thanks Renee for having us, and thanks Marc for joining for lunch!!

Orange Friday!

Aubrey is getting so big! Crawling around and tipped over this tent - she is so adventurous!

I couldn't get this picture to turn, but Gino is getting so big 7 weeks and filling out.

He got to meet Auntie Moni!

Frannie is running all around now!

Giada and Dylan played so well together and tired themselves out in the ball pit!

Homemade popsicles ...yummy!

Giada and I invited ourselves over to Lindsay's to go swimming while the boys had a fantasy football draft and what a relaxing afternoon it was!!

Happy Birthday Pops! Mike was off doing oil stuff so we made a cake for Pops and headed over to sing to him! When we took the cake out of the oven Giada said "Cake is so yummy do you smell it in your nose?"

My uncle sent these cute pictures from the wedding last weekend! Kiddos look so grown up all dressed up!

Apparently she didn't want it sliced....but she did ask before she ate it, so that's half the battle .....right??

Happy and you know it??????

Giada Update

- She is very imaginative lately with her stories, they start with something, go onto to talk about everything she can think of and circle around to what she started with!

- The words she comes up with are funny to me...." I saw a squirrel and it was chattering somefing!"

-She picked up a package and said "read the letters"

I'm surprised that she recognizes the letters and is grasping that concept

- She is loving picking tomatoes from the garden. I love eating the cherry tomatoes, but every time she catches me she yells "No you can't eat the matoes they are for salad"

-Anyone that knows my dad knows he loves the movie 'Dancing with Wolves' - he has watched the Buffalo part with Giada many times. We were reading a book and when I asked what animal that was she answered "Buffalo tanka Indians call tanka"

-I forgot to mention last week....we were in Eugene driving around and all of a sudden Giada yells "Look mommy Wilson" By Wilson she means the Giants closer.....By Wilson she meant the guy walking down the street with a huge beard....it was pretty comical

- We have been watching the movie 'Little Mermaid' she keeps saying "Ariel is a nice singer".....I mean she must sound amazing considering all the singing she usually hears is mine!

Gino Update

- He is growing up and filling out, especially noticeable in her face

-Growing out of his newborn clothes, and diapers!

-Smiling and cooing much more, but I haven't captured either yet :(

-Awake more during the day

-Sleeping the same at night....2 hrs at a time, maybe a 3 hr stretch once in awhile and then hourly towards the early morning...I need to work on that!

-Neck and legs are so strong!

Serpentarium & Road Trip to Oregon

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

This week Heather and I took the kids to the Serpentarium in Lodi. SO many snakes, lizards, and spiders. Some were HUGE. The kids spent about an hour wandering around.

The turtles were a hit. They had baby turtles too, so tiny and adorable.

And then some HUGE gross creatures!

We talked the employee into bringing out a snake, Giada enjoyed petting it and then making me pet it too. I don't mind that, but the spider room gave me the creeps!

Later in the week, we were off to Oregon. My cousin Christi MacLaggan was getting married in Eugene so my mom and I decided to take the kiddos on a road trip since the boys couldn't make the trip with us. First stop Klamath Falls, Oregon.

Thanks Shively family for dinner, vino, and a fun night.

Conner was avoiding my camera, but I got this cute one!

Giada was testing out the "Handy Manny" tool box and came across these safety goggles!

Conner wanted to hold the baby..

And Jane too! Thanks again Jane for the visit!

We then drove up to Eugene, many beautiful sites along the way and the kids were GREAT on the drive!!

We decided to rent a house with some other family members for instead of a hotel. Super fun, huge 3 story house by the college and walking distance to everything we needed - restaurants, ice cream and more!

Giada enjoyed Uncle Chris's new sandbox at the house while we visited with family at the rehearsal dinner.

Her new thing is to lay next to Gino and request a photo.

Over and over....

My cousin Corrie and I are the same age and grew up together. We got to see them every summer as they live in Austin, TX. Her daughter Carmen was born on 7/4, and Gino 7/19....so these 2nd cousins are a couple weeks apart and enjoyed meeting one another.

Almost every time I asked her to smile for a photo this weekend, this is what I got!

We found lots of parks to play in...

Gino all dressed up in his tie for the wedding! We never got a group photo at the wedding, guess my mom and I were too busy herding Giada and visiting with family.

The wedding was at a beautiful winery about 15 miles outside of Eugene. The decor is below. My uncle Chris works for Fall Creek World Famous Blueberry Farm/Nursery so those were incorporated in a few places!

Blueberry Jam...yummy!

Amazing view from every angle.

The newlyweds - Christi and Tyler Harris

Giada spent a long time picking up all the flowers after the ceremony.....

and throwing them in the creek/water fountain. We didn't stop her, it occupied her for quite some time!

Again....a smile pic...

When it was time to dance she held this little boys hand and they were so cute just frozen not moving while everyone danced around them. Cousin Drew would come over and dance with her for while and then back to hand holding with Hayden. Giada had the best time with cousin Drew...more pics to come.

Family pics...my mom with 5 of her siblings...Ran and Chuck couldn't make it.

Mom and Mickey

MacPac from Texas

MacPac from San Diego

Not sure why Corrie or I worried about what to wear for the wedding, when you have this huge pack covering your outfit!

On the way home we drove the whole way in one day. It was a 13 hour day, again kids were awesome. We came a different way down and stopped in Ashland. Fun town! We stumbled on this awesome park with a water area for the kids to play, ducks and jungle gym - she was a happy girl. After a 3 hour stop, with of course more ice cream...we headed home!

Thanks mom for a fun trip!

Olive Festival, & Kid Updates

2011-08-23T19:57:00.000-07:00

First of all thank you for all the well wishes, prayers, calls and thoughts that went our way during/after Gino's adventure. Although I didn't respond to everyone personally, it really meant a lot to our family. Thank you again! He had an appointment today and all seems to be well!

This past week we finally made it to Farmer's Market. Fun night out with friends on a hot summer evening. Giada was anxious to ride the pony! When we got there her friends Lucca and Cooper were getting on as well, even more fun!

Gino and I tagged along holding her. She waved to everyone as we made our rounds.

We got new couches, that do not have removable cushions...that is a big problem for Mike and Giada....it isn't as easy to make forts. But, daddy got creative and Giada was thrilled!

Hard to believe but Gino is 1 month old! He is looking at me saying "Seriously do we have to do this EVERY month!".....and yes Gino we do :)

Visitors! This week Jamie and Zac stopped by on their way to Sacramento. Always a fun day! We headed out to the lake to let Sydney swim and relax for the afternoon. James got some cuddle time with Gino. And Zac entertained Giada for hours!

This weekend was the Paso Robles Olive Oil Festival. Gina and Scott joined us this year for a family event. Despite the SUPER windy day, it was quite successful! This time we had 2 booths, and we changed the way we did our tastings, all seemed to work out well. We debuted our Very Berry Ginger Balsamic, which was well received!

Not looking our best after the almost 12 hour day.....but here we are! :) Giada was hanging out in Lodi -Taking Sydney for walks and the highlight of her weekend, going to see the parachuters at the Lodi Airport....Nana and Giada go on lots of adventures. Thanks for watching her mom!

Gino was a good sport all weekend. Traveled well in the car and hung out in the Ergo for HOURS on Saturday and seemed pretty content!! Speaking of Ergo. One lady at the festival asked me if I was holding a kid or a dog in there...... REALLY!?!? I took a minute before answering because I couldn't believe she had asked that! Do people really do that????

And when mom is working in the office...he just chills, he is a pretty calm baby for the most part!

Gino 1 month stats!

-8lbs 1 oz, 21.25" long

-Picks his head up really well, enjoys tummy time

- All the nurses have said all along he is really strong. If he is awake he is constantly moving his arms and legs all around, just like he did in my tummy

- Feeding well, sleeping as expected for a newborn. Or I should say a newborn of mine, which means he is up a ton at night! I didn't expect anything else, Giada was a terrible sleeper.

-Eyes still super blue

-He is calm and content on his own most of the time, unless he is hungry

- No cradle cap but does get baby acne throughout the day off and on

- He can finally take baths - yippee, I'm over the sponge baths

- Starting to smile more, we haven't captured it yet and coo

-Everyone says he looks like Giada, I am not just sure yet but when he is sleeping they look very similar to me!

Giadaisms for the week...

-Giada lately has been in situations where she has to choose a color - it could be a balloon, popsicle, anything....her response is often "Orange for the Giants!" I love it of course even if we have been sucking lately!

-She calls Gino "Gino Ray" and we have to tell "Gino Ray" everything we do, literally everything, all day.....hope this is a phase :)

- I was fixing Giada's hair the other day and I said "Oh there is an ant in your hair" Most kids don't like to touch ants, oh not mine she says "let me see it, give it to me" and holds it as it crawls all around her hand

- The things kids remember. I asked her to go feed Blue fish(guess what color he is :) and she says " one day one fish died, we buried it in the backyard" - that was at least 6 months ago