Dear Chloe, We Love Syrup

Pretend Play + The Syrup

2013-04-27T07:54:00.000-07:00

Dear Chloe,

Almost 4 years after you first said the words, "I love you" {pronounced: "I love syrup"} -- I find myself delighted when the word "syrup" still pops up in your daily language. Something about it just makes me smile.

And I may be biased, but I think it's simply the cutest way EVER to pronounce the word "you".

Recently, you began focusing on the skill of pretend play with our ABA home therapy team + I caught you mastering a part of this major milestone on video with your ABA friend, Kaylee. In the video, which I'm about to share, you can even start to hear Mommy cry because I was just so proud of you. And I simply couldn't believe what I had just witnessed.

For pretend play activities, we've been using your favorite "Yo Gabba Gabba" dolls as our props. The general directions given to you, are for you to pick up the Gabba doll of your choice and then make it talk. And for weeks you've been practicing.

As of last week, you can successfully pretend to have the dolls say, "Hi" and "How are you" {pronounced: "How syrup?"}. It's so awesome!

Keep working hard, my big girl, to get all those words out.

And know that even when you can't, we don't love you ANY less.

We know you try your VERY hardest.

We Love "Syrup"!

Hugs and Kisses,

Mommy

A Little Share...After A Long While

2013-04-25T16:36:00.001-07:00

Dear Chloe,

There are so many things to catch you up on and so many special moments that I'm excited to share with you. In the past few months that I haven't written, you've accomplished a great many things. And grown up so fast! Here is a little recap of some of my favorites...

You've grown so tall.

{A before and after picture from our old house.

The photo on the right is our last night there.}

And even more beautiful.

You've soared to new heights.

And made new friends.

You've welcomed new family members.

And gracefully accepted the time we had to say goodbye to one we've known and loved so long.

{We'll always love you, Kiki}

You made Daddy's DREAM come true. {Yep, you like to ride a skateboard now!}

And we watched in tears, as secret wishes we had for you came true.

{You gave trick-or-treating a try for the first time! And loved it!}

You've overcome past fears.

And some scary new beginnings.

All while staying exactly where we are....madly in love with you.

And all the wonderful things you do.

And look! Looking more like Daddy every day...if I might add.

We're so proud of you, big girl. And we love you {"syrup"} so very much!

Big Hugs,
Mommy

New Blog, New Topics

2012-08-12T16:52:00.001-07:00

Hi Everyone,

I know, I've been MIA lately. I've got a good reason though -- I've been working on a new blog! It's all about living + eating Gluten Free (that's how we eat as a family + how I have to eat since I have celiac disease), and I'm excited to share with all of you more about this part of our life.

Our Gluten Free life. :)

I still intend to write on this blog after I get this up and running. It may just be awhile though before I do. I've got a lot of updates, a lot of great things to share, and of course -- lots of adorable pictures of our "Little C" that I'd like to share with her in my letters soon!

In the meantime -- come on over and check out what I've been up to!

House 54

Behind The Scenes: Our Story

2012-05-08T14:37:00.000-07:00

Today, Kelle Hampton, from the blog Enjoying The Small Things, invited her readers to post and share their stories of how their lives reflected the themes in her newly published book, Bloom: Finding Beauty in the Unexpected.

And so I took her up on her challenge and wrote our story. I thought I'd go ahead and share it on our blog too, in case any of you lovely followers out there were interested in hearing it as well.

Enjoy! :)

"It's been said that your life can change in a day -- good or bad. This statement couldn't be more true than when applied to my life.

Almost 3 years ago, in the early weeks of September, I was grieving the loss of my father. He was 54 and died suddenly after having a massive heart attack in the middle of the night. In the arms of his wife and my mother, the woman he had spent 32 years of his life with, he slipped away and made his way to Heaven. No warning, no chance to say goodbye. In a flash, he was gone and on September 11th, a day so many others had already marked as a day of great loss and sadness, we laid my father to rest next his parents in upstate New York.

The night my 2 younger sisters and I received the news, we were way on the other side of the country here in Southern California. We were awoken from our sleep with the news that our father was no longer with us and we were left to pick up the broken pieces that remained of our mother. She made it clear, early on, that she didn't want to exist on this Earth without him. And who could blame her? I certainly couldn't. Things were…messy and complicated. And they remained that way for a very long time.

At the time of my father's passing, I was 28 years old and single. I had successfully earned myself 3 degrees, all within the field of education, and yet after graduating with my master's degree I couldn't find a job that matched my experience. No teaching jobs open. No school counseling jobs available. And so I settled with a job as a teacher's aide, something I had done long before my days of teaching or earning those degrees. I was bitter and frustrated but I carried on and accepted any job I could get, knowing it would be good experience no matter what, and worthy of putting on my resume. And I was working with kids...the thing I loved the very most.

Then came the day my life changed…again.

On December 17th, on what would have been my father's 55th Birthday, I received an email from a single father named Stanton. He had seen an ad on a caregiver website with my information on it; an ad I had long forgotten about, as I had posted it over summer during my time off during summer break. He was looking for help. He had a little girl, Chloe, who was 5 years old and whom he was raising on his own; a little one who just so happened to have little almond shaped eyes and an extra special little something. I agreed to meet them and invited the distractions that I felt a second job would bring.

Little did I know, the two amazing and special souls I was about to meet would later become my family; that their house, clearly marked with the number 54 -- the same number I had seen repeatedly since the day my father passed -- would later become the place I'd call home.

Last November, Stanton and I were married in a courthouse with Chloe by our side. And a month later, in December, 2 years almost to the day we met, we ran off to Maui (to "Get Maui'd" of course!) and celebrate the new life and love we had been blessed with. We eloped…a second time! And this month? This is the month I will legally adopt Chloe and according to the state of California, officially be her mother.

Our life is…all that is beautiful in the unexpected.

And together -- that's what we embrace every - single - day."

Choo Choo Kazoo!

2012-04-07T15:20:00.000-07:00

Dear Chloe,

Today, was a Kazoo kinda day - fun and full of new adventures.

Our morning started off with an amazing play date with our friends Connor and Garet at the park. We played in the sand and climbed and ran around on the playground. Later, Jen our friend and ABA tutor, came over for session and brought you a Kazoo.

You are such a musician, Chloe, and it instantly became a hit! Mom caught the moment on video and as you can see, you had us all laughing and cheering. I even started to pretend with you that we were choo choo trains and you "choo chooed" right along with me. It was a moment filled with huge smiles and endless laughs. Another like Christmas moment that we'll never forget!

What an amazing day we had. We love you so much. I definitely can't compete with Mom on writing skills, she's so great, but I sure enjoyed writing this letter to you.

I Love You,

Behind The Scenes: The Sounds of Happiness

2012-03-28T21:59:00.000-07:00

Phew! It's been a busy month and I feel like I'm still adjusting to these shorter school days. Little C is too. I literally feel like I haven't sat down -- between the usual park runs and fun, the IEP prepping, new schedule adjustment, and a behavior bump here and there -- in forever to write and share updates.

But in the past few days, we have had some serious milestone moments {I'm talkin' BIG like Christmas moments happening over here} -- the kind you have to share with everyone because you're just so excited. A Camera Crew Tuesday post short and a kitchen full of dishes, I couldn't resist squeezing in some time to jump on the blog and share what we're up to.

...And what's making our girl happy.

Happiness isn't just felt in you heart and your soul -- it's heard.

And it sounds like this:

We didn't just feel that happiness, we heard it loud and clear, as Chloe mastered a new goal tonight!

If I could tell you how long this has been a goal for her -- for her to be able to "blow" air out of her mouth so she can blow out birthday candles, blow bubbles, etc...I would. But I've lost track. It's been a while. But today -- our girl showed us how's it done. I literally heard her do it as I muttered the words, "She'll get it" to Chloe's tutor and friend, Jen.

Needless to say -- we were overjoyed!!

{Mrs. Dawn, if you're reading this -- I know you're jumping up and down right now!}

And C played like this on Saturday:

Tell me that doesn't look fun! ;)

Other exciting news? Our girl is starting to have conversations with us!

Case and point -- today I learned that when you ask Chloe, "How are you doing?" she will reply with "Good". According to Chloe's friend and ABA tutor, Jen, she mastered it last week but has yet to show it off to me. And you can bet I had a big reaction when I heard Chloe say it for the first time!

Jen: {Sitting on the couch with Chloe} Chloe, How are you doing?

Chloe: Good.

Me: {Dropped the dish I was holding} WHATTT!! Did she just say "good"?!

Jen: Yeah, she's doing that now.

Me: SHUUUT UP!! You're kidding me! {tears}

Jen: {getting excited with me and chuckles over my apparently, priceless reaction}

Me: Oh My God! I can't believe it! Chloe, that is SO good! Mom is so proud of you! {more tears} Oh Wow. Wow!

Chloe: {Smiling on the couch, with a it was nothin' kinda look on her face}

I seriously couldn't believe it. I still can't. We're absolutely beaming right now!

And when Stanton came home and C showed it off to him -- you can only imagine his reaction. That was the second time we both teared up today, the first being at the pre-IEP meeting with Chloe's teacher, when she shared how well Chloe's doing in her new class, especially since we transitioned her to modified school days.

Times are changing and we can slowly feel our girl coming back to us. She's hitting her stride again! :)

So how's that for some joy spreading? ;)

More updates to come!

It's Friday!

2012-03-23T08:29:00.003-07:00

To all our friends out there:

We hope this weekend, you get lots of rest…

You have some fun!

...And you share lots of laughs and smiles with the ones you love!

TGIF, everyone! Happy weekend! :)

Camera Crew Tuesday: Fro-Yo Date

2012-03-20T21:13:00.001-07:00

Dear Chloe,

We had a frozen yogurt date today after school, and I have to say, I never anticipated we'd end up having such a blast. I went into our trip thinking -- this will just be a fun, quick stop -- and then we'll head home and to the park. Little did I know, I would leave there feeling like someone had handed me one of our old "like Christmas moments", all re-wrapped and pretty, and told me I could re-experience the joy of that moment again, as if it were the very first time.

Today was such a good day.

While at Yogurtland -- we laughed, we played, and we shared our frozen treats of choice with each other. I chose strawberry {a first for me!} and you chose your favorite, peanut butter with m&m's and sprinkles.

And of course, like always and in true Camera Crew fashion -- we documented the moment.

While there, I noticed another mom across the room watching us, as she sat with her daughter who was about your same age. In the beginning of their yogurt date, the little girl's mom was sitting across from her at the table and busy on her phone, and a few times, I caught her glancing up and in our direction.

Thinking nothing of it, I continued on with our playing -- stealing bites of your peanut butter yogurt {my favorite!} and pressing my cheeks against yours to snap another photo.

After all, today was the first day you ever looked into the camera and let me do that. I got a serious rush over turning that camera lens around on my iPhone, watching you light up when you saw yourself on the screen, and smiling on cue.

It was a new first; a "like Christmas moment" happening before my eyes and I wasn't going to miss one single moment of it!

Who's to say why that mom was looking at us. Maybe it was because she was wondering if you had down syndrome and she wanted to see how we interacted. Maybe she was watching because we look like the two fun people we are, and she found it entertaining. Or perhaps she thought it was cute the way we played and laughed together and she was intrigued. Who knows -- maybe she was sitting there wishing she was close with her own daughter the way we are.

All I know is, by the time our yogurt date ended -- that mommy had moved across the table and sat next to her daughter. I saw her start to engage and talk and smile. And for a moment -- I saw her look up again at us afterwards and smile at me.

It was one of those "thank you" smiles that I can't quite explain to you unless you were there. But the way I read it? It looked like -- thank you...thank you for reminding me to be present with my daughter and show her love.

And as we walked out of the yogurt place, hand in hand, smiling and laughing -- I had a little thought:

I think we're joy spreaders.

We're the people who walk into a room, always smiling.
We're the people who have fun whether someone is watching or not.
We're the people who maybe -- just maybe -- convince you to let loose and have a little fun too.

{Thank you Daddy, for being my teacher!}

We spread goodness. And I promise you this...we always will.

We're always going to spread that goodness, that positivity, those smiles, and just be ourselves -- like no one is watching.

And if someone is? Well, we can only hope they take our lead and do the same. :)

Thank you, Little C, for such a fun day! I missed this. And with tears in my eyes, I can say from a place deep in my heart -- today is a day I will never forget.

I love you, little one, so very very much.

Behind The Scenes: Reasons For Smiling

2012-03-19T17:16:00.000-07:00

I've been MIA all week -- I know. To be honest, I haven't felt much like blogging. Instead, I decided my energy was best spent helping Chloe re-establish a new sense of "normal" after her big transition from full school days to modified ones. We're still in the middle of our transition period, but overall things are going really well. She's liking it {especially this week} and enjoying being at home with me in the afternoons.

So, with that being said -- I'll move onto more news in my first official "Behind The Scenes" post, which just so happens this week to come in the form of a list. Here we go...

My 5 Reasons For Smiling:

1. My husband is amazing and he deserves the credit. ;)

Given last week was a long one for us and an emotional one for me -- Stanton surprised me on Friday with the news that I'd be having a spa day at my favorite place, The Montage, on Saturday. And as if that wasn't enough -- I awoke on Saturday to find flowers, my favorite coffee {Carmel Latte from Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf}, girly magazines, and a card -- that I was told I wasn't allowed to open until I reached "the first light" just past our house.

By the time I reached the light and opened my card -- I was already tearing up. This card might not make you emotional, but it surely made me. It was really special.

Inside was my agenda on my day off.

And some heartfelt words {which I won't embarrass him and share} and a gift card to my favorite shopping place, Nordstrom.

He knows me well enough to know if he doesn't give me a gift card and tell me to go shopping for myself, I'll just go shopping for him or Chloe. It never fails, every time I come home with stuff for them. ;)

To say I feel fortunate to have met Stanton is a given.

To say I'm blessed to have him as my husband is the understatement of the century.

To say, as long as I have him {as the card says}, I'll be happy forever -- well that, my friends, is the ultimate truth.

Thank you honey, for my fun-filled day off. It was just what I needed! You really are the best husband and I feel so blessed, not just on the days you pamper me, but everyday, to call myself your wife.

I love you, Stanton. xoxo

2. Chloe is singing.

Sometimes she babbles along to her favorites. Other times, we'll catch her singing the last word of each phrase of a song we're playing in the car. Because I've always loved to sing myself, you know I'm on cloud nine status right now over this latest development. It's so exciting!

Her favorites lately are Colbie Caillat's "Brighter Than The Sun" and Mat Kearney's "Hey Mama", to which she likes to clap along. Turning around to find her with a big smile on her face and her little hands clapping in the air, seriously makes my day.

I know my sister, Kelley, is swooning right now. She's a big Mat Kearney fan and so am I! :)

Fun Fact: One of Colbie Caillat's albums is entitled "Coco", which also happens to be one of Chloe's nicknames her Daddy gave her.

3. Spring is coming.

The best part about spring coming and our clocks shifting forward? It's still sunny at night when Stanton comes home from work, which means our "night walks" can resume! It's one of our favorite things to do together. And this year -- we've got a wagon! Wahoo!

Now, if only I could get Chloe to not stand in it. ;)

4. Chloe is talking more than ever.

As I'm typing this, you know what my girl says? "I want ice cream". Four words, together. This is a regular occurrence in our house these days and it's so friggin' exciting. If my girl made in just 3 months, at home with me over summer, a year's worth of progress in regards to her language -- I can only imagine what these modified days and another summer off will bring.

Us, enjoying some fun outside. I recently discovered, Little C doesn't like to sit in the grass, but rather on top of me, which makes for excellent entertainment when she puts her feet in my face. Ha! This picture not only makes me smile -- it makes me LOL!

I know I say it all the time, but I'm so proud of her. More language means less frustration for our girl and I'll take that any day!

And last, but certainly not least...

5. I'm designing a new blog. New topics and fun things to share.

And I'm so excited about it! It should be up and running soon. Stay tuned!

.......................................................

So there you go, my first "Katie" post. :) It felt good to write to you all and share a few thoughts.

So tell me everyone, what things lately are making YOU smile?

Cheers everyone, to a great week ahead!

Camera Crew Tuesday: Only Time

2012-03-13T19:51:00.000-07:00

Dear Chloe,

It's been a long couple of days, as we've all been sick with a bad cold. Six days later, we're all finally feeling more like ourselves and ready to bust down the doors of this house. We've been cooped up!

It's so rare for us to get sick {yes, we're those people} but when we do -- we are down for the count and just plain miserable. We tried to get out and enjoy the nice 80 degree weather that March brought us over the weekend, we even took our usual trips to the park, but our colds always won and our outings never lasted too long.

We just felt...sick.

These are the kinds of days one would prefer that NO Camera Crew be present. You don't look your best, you don't feel your best, and most days you just lay around in your pj's with messy hair. This is the exact reason you won't be seeing any pictures of Daddy and I in this post. ;)

I did manage, however, to snap a few cute ones of you on some of our short outings for coffee and juice. Thank the Lord for drive-thru Starbucks!

It was nice to see you smiling, even when you didn't feel so great, and the outings provided the break from the house we all so desperately needed.

As for me, I've been feeling better too, but I can't say the same for Daddy. He was the last to get the cold and last night he had a slight fever. As soon as I saw "99.9" register on the thermometer -- I ordered him straight to bed with cold medicine and advil.

Not before fulfilling his dinner request though, of course. ;) It's one of your favorites too.

Spaghetti a la bolognese with homemade gluten free garlic bread -- steam included ;)

We love comfort food. Actually, being the "foodies" we are, we just LOVE food in general. So even though we felt under the weather, cooking in this house never ceased.

Surprisingly, I still felt like cooking -- a first in all the times I've been sick.

Our menu also included Gluten Free Grilled Cheese Sandwiches and Minestrone Soup. And always, despite our not liking the taste, we drank lots of "Emergen-C" drinks. One of the many things I whipped up during our weekend in.

Luckily, Daddy woke up feeling refreshed, fever free, and with more energy this morning. I guess that "Emergen-C" stuff really works. :)

.......................................

Onto this week's inspiration --

Today's letter to you was inspired by the song "Only Time" by Enya. I heard it literally minutes before I started typing this, as you and I traveled back from a trip to the grocery store. It's timing seemed more than appropriate, as Time is the thing we seem to be up against and waiting on the most these days.

Waiting for it to pass, waiting for things to change, waiting for new things to surface, waiting for us to get better and healthy again.

The lyrics spoke to me.

Who can say where the road goes

Where the day flows, only Time.

I have mixed feelings though over my relationship with Time. Although it's true, like the song suggests, that only time will tell where a road will lead and how things will change and evolve -- it's also true that your feelings over Time itself can change. Some days it can feel sparse, like there is never enough of it in a single day or week.

Perfect example: Old Photos.

Like I've mentioned before, there are many days I find myself looking at old photos and thinking: Oh dear sweet Time, please - slow - down! How is it that she's gotten this big, this fast?

I like to believe I feel this way because I made my grand entrance into your life when you were five years old, but it seems true for everyone and every parent. Daddy says he feels time passing even more because he's had the full seven years with you. To him -- one day you were a baby and the next you were a big girl.

You, age 5. This was your first week on the "big girl" swings. Daddy was so very nervous and I assured him you would be okay. And of course, you were. :)

Other times or days, Time can be compared to the idea of trying to force a mule up a long, winding road up the side of a mountain -- stubborn and unbearably slow. These are the times that "phases" can seem like an eternity, a behavioral day can feel like a week and a sick week can feel like a month.

These are the moments I wish Time would speed up and go faster; that we'd heal quicker or that an event we're looking forward to was already here.

Perfect example: Home School. I wish it were June almost every day.

I miss this:

.........................................

What I've learned most about Time, however, is how precious it is. It's so cliche and over used, but it's true. It's not until you lose someone you love, until you have a sweet little girl in front of you called your daughter, or a husband you love and adore -- that you can truly appreciate Time's presence. At least that's the case for me. Although everyone's journey to that conclusion is different.

For so long, for such a huge chunk of my life, I was wishing Time forward and envisioning myself in the future, happier. And now, here I am in the future and happier -- still playing a wrestling match with this dang gone Time. It's a bit comical, really.

But then comes into my focus, little ol' you. My daughter. The one who keeps me focused and reminds me that our Time together in this life, especially when you're this small, is so short. I'm reminded of that every day in how quickly you're growing. Today, especially, when I put on yet another pair of jeans that wouldn't fit you. You grew!

Part of me wanted to celebrate, while the other part of me felt a little sad because I know you're time as a 7 year old is drawing to a close. July is but only a blink of an eye away and before I know it, you'll turn 8.

..........................................

My conclusion? I'll never beat Time and neither will you. It will always keep moving forward whether we like it or not.

The best part though? You don't have a care in the world about it, C. And I shouldn't have a care either. So you know what? I'm taking your lead on this one.

I'm going to let you be the teacher, once again.

I'm going to ignore Time and live more in the moment. I'll worry less. I'll appreciate more each day we have together -- whether it's good or bad. And when I can't appreciate? Maybe I'll just keep moving forward like I always do, with the reassurance that the new day awaiting us has the possibility of a fresh clean slate with new, happy memories to make.

And I'll wake up with a smile on my face, like you always do, at least giving the day a chance to surprise us with something good. And yes, even days like this when we're sick. :)

Yellow mugs with subtle reminders of sunshine and summer days ahead, can help you do that. :)

..........................................

And who am I kidding, I'm never going to lose my glass half-full perspective and my rose colored glasses anyway. These letters are proof of that. ;)

So with that in mind and with a few more days left in our week ahead -- one full of possibilities, of clean slates, new memories -- I'm going to be thankful that we once again, have 3 healthy people in this house.

After all, that in itself is something to celebrate.

We Love You, "Chlo, Chlo". Always and forever.

Behind The Scenes: An Update

2012-03-09T23:56:00.004-08:00

Recently, I came to the conclusion that not everything I experience, think, or feel should be disclosed in a letter to Chloe. Ha! {Surprise, Surprise...right?!} But some of these things, I'd still like to share. So tonight, I'm doing things a little differently. I'm turning the tables a bit and creating a new type of post -- a "first" on the We Love Syrup Blog. I'm going to write about things from my perspective -- as Chloe's Mom, as Stanton's wife, as just as me...Katie.

And to keep things consistent, I've decided these posts need a title -- "Behind The Scenes". This way, it's obvious I'm not writing a letter to Chloe. ;)

Stanton and I both thought that it would be fun to stick with the "Camera Crew Tuesday" theme, because if there were an actual camera crew here, well, these posts would be equivalent to something like our bloopers. You know, those moments caught and edited out before the video went live. ;)

Starting simple, I'm sending out a little message to you all tonight to let you know I updated the "About Us" section of the blog. More posts to come...

Happy Friday!

Camera Crew Tuesday Continued: DJ Chloe & The Potty Gang

2012-03-07T21:06:00.009-08:00

Dear Chloe,

Judging from the title of this letter, I think you'll find it's quite obvious that I'm going to write to you with a comedic tone tonight. And I have good reason, because this week has been full of good days.

The kind of days that leave me feeling so excited, I'm almost giddy. Goofy even. And I can be found skipping {yes, literally!} around the house.

I was skipping.

You know why? Because I realized yesterday, as I walked hand in hand with you out of your classroom at school, that it was going to be your last full day there...ever. I signed a paper just before we left that says from now on, you'll be on "modified school days" and get to come home with me every day at 11:45. {Woohoo!}

And today -- our first "modified" day -- we officially entered into a new frontier. A half day of school and a lot more time with Mommy at home; a lot more time for you to be a kid and just play.

Leaving that building today with you at lunch time was surreal. Euphorically strange. I felt as if we were literally walking away from a natural disaster {all action movie ending visual included, where the main characters survived, even with all the odds against them} -- and we were free.

Safe and free and starting over.

Hey camera crew, I wish you were here to see and document that!

I've missed weekdays like today -- where we played and cuddled and laughed. Where life felt easier and stress free. It felt so good to take control and get it all back.

I've always said, and I'll stand by it -- Life can change in a day. And today, we proved that it's true.

But this is just the start, Little C. Come June, you'll be home with us full-time. We told you good times were ahead, did we not? :)

...............................................

And with good days, come good shares and signs of progress. And pictures and videos too, of course! :)

I'll start with my favorite news, other than the school related kind.

You're now a DJ.

Well, okay, not officially...but you're on your way! And yes, although I'm not certain the music circuit has caught onto you yet, I do have a slight feeling you are entering "future career" territory here. But who knows -- so many more things are possible!

All I know is, you love music and you always have. And on Monday, we had a "like Christmas moment" in the beginning of March -- you learned how to fully operate your CD player in your room.

I watched you rotate the disks in and out of the CD player {those bad boys were called "boom boxes" in my day, HA!} about a dozen times -- putting in a new CD, pressing play, changing the songs, listening for about oooh 5 seconds and after a long pause or booty shake -- deciding you'd like to start the whole process over again. I could see the proud look written across your face. You were diggin' the fact that you could do this all on your own, without our help...and I was too!

Yesterday, I managed to catch it on video.

Only today, I watched you work that CD player like it was your beginner set of turn-tables. You were pushing new buttons, figuring out how to change from song to song, and how to control the volume.

As usual, I just stood there with my trusty iPhone camera in hand, with the look of shock plastered across my face {these moments never grow old for me}, and my typical Mama-like emotions. I was so proud...so excited for you!

I'm already realizing now...we're going to need to make some copies of those CD's. They are already acquiring some new scratches from all your practice work. ;)

My favorite part? The part where you lined up all the CD's on the trampoline so you could survey which songs you had to choose from. Next step -- get you a case!

So there you go -- my proof that DJing is your future.

Hmm, I wonder if watching this guy every day has anything to do with it? ;)

"DJ Lance" from Yo Gabba Gabba

........................................

Other exciting news?

Yesterday, we had yet another new "like Christmas moment". I watched as you placed your bear, the one Aunt Krissy got you for Christmas, onto your baby doll's potty. You were so particular about it, so serious about how he had to sit and where his little potty had to go.

I didn't know if I should be laughing or shouting "Hooray!" at the top of my lungs.

I decided to do both. :)

You, flushing the bear's potty for him. So stinkin' cute!

The "potty"

You know what this tells me, little love? That it's all clicking! Not only do you have this potty concept down, but you're also getting the hang of pretend play with your toys. First came baby dolls and now you're finding that bears can join in the fun too!

Oh how I love this stage! Next are tea parties, dress up, and maybe even make believe friends. I can't wait!

Bear was such a good sport. ;)

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The wind has shifted yet again, this time in our favor, and big changes have begun taking place. And Chloe, something tells me we are witnessing only the beginning...a preview...of all the fantastic things to come.

I can't wait to see where this journey takes us. For now, Daddy and I are just going to sit back and take it all in, and just enjoy this new blessing we have been given.

We Love You, DJ Chloe...and all the special, new, and wonderful things you do!
You make us SO SO PROUD!

Camera Crew Tuesday: A Teaser

2012-03-06T22:29:00.001-08:00

Dear Chloe,

Guess what you did today?! Another little something new...

Here's a little teaser, until you receive the long letter I have coming tomorrow. I'm typing it up as we speak, and with it, come many more videos and pictures!

And some more BIG news too!

Can you say, DJ Chloe? :)

I love you with all my heart, Little C, and we're so very proud of you!

Up High, Down Low

2012-03-04T19:44:00.004-08:00

Dear Chloe,

Well, the title of this letter pretty much sums up our week. We had some high points -- like you having three consecutive good days at school {Hooray!}. And we had some low ones -- like finding out that our plans, the ones I intended to reveal to you this week and I was really excited about sharing {which are that we plan to home school you} -- are going to start later than we hoped.

We were hoping for that new journey to begin...ooooh, yesterday. ;) But we're going to have to remain patient and wait until the summer when you become a big 3rd grader. We want you to be enrolled with a specific charter school when we make this big jump, even though you'll be at home with me, and the school's enrollment period is closed until then. {Boohoo!}

In the meantime we're going to keep trucking forward with big smiles on our faces and positive thoughts, because well, that's just how we roll in this family. :)

Daddy's New iPhone Background. He says this is his favorite photo to date! {Mine too!}

Besides, it'll come faster than we think, and when it happens -- it's going to be so fantastic! Daddy and I are really looking forward to it!

And me? Well, it seems I was being prepared for this all along, even years before I met you...I just didn't know it. Teaching and educational counseling experience -- yeah, I'd say that makes me qualified. Can you say the words divine intervention? ;)

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Other High's & Low's From The Week:

Visits from your favorite friend and therapy pal, Jen. I'd say that was on the "high" list for you. You two always have loads of fun together!

You said the words, "Up High" and "Down Low" for the first time together, while jumping on the trampoline -- that one is going on "high" list for Daddy and I. Any new words are definitely a cause for celebration!

And as you can hear on the next video, I was quite proud and excited!

Something I've learned about myself, as I've re-played enough family videos back, is that the more excited I get -- the louder and higher pitched my voice gets.

I'd have to say, the same is true for you! :)

A case of the itchy bum in the middle of your fun? I'd say that might qualify as a "low". ;) But then again, it was a tad funny and very cute, so perhaps we could list it in both columns.

The way I see it -- any reason to laugh around here should definitely go on the "high" list.

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Whether our days are full of highs or some unexpected lows, know that we'll always be here for you along the way, Chloe. We'll always get through it.

Who could feel discouraged anyway, with these two cheerleaders? ;)

Big exciting changes are coming soon, so hang tight! It's not much longer.

We love you, Chloe, so very much!

Leap Day Luck

2012-02-29T08:55:00.006-08:00

Dear Chloe,

This week for us started off with a bang...and some great school reports. As of yesterday, we we're 2 for 2!

So since it's Leap Day {and I'm assuming this is good luck?} -- I decided this morning that I'd take my chances and allow time to do a little-somethin'-extra-special with your hair, while on the ever so quickly moving clock called our morning routine.

Daddy and I run this house in the morning like a well-oiled machine -- everything with a time and place, and parents who have assigned tasks {Ha!} -- so needless to say, rarely do we go off course.

But today, I thought -- Hey, why not?! Let's do it!

{This one's called: two braids, 1 cute little matching bow}

I also allowed time to take pictures of you and Daddy walking out to the car to go to school.

And a few at our usual hugs & kisses send-off.

With a little Leap Day luck -- there was also time to snap a photo of you doing a little dancing in the grass. There was hand waving, jumping, and some cute little footsteps as you swayed from side to side. :)

If this pre-March jig is any indication of how our day is going to go -- I'd say it's going to be a good one! :) One more day left C, because on Friday there is a substitute teacher and you get to stay home with me!

Here's to hoping we're 3 for 3 today!

We love you C! You can do it!

Camera Crew Tuesday: A Case of The Blurries

2012-02-28T15:40:00.004-08:00

Dear Chloe,

You know the top reason I wish we had a camera crew videoing and documenting our life? They wouldn't take blurry photos like Mommy sometimes does and well...they'd also document it on video so it wouldn't matter. ;)

For every 30 photos I take of you -- I'd say I probably get 3 I like. Yep, it's true.

And lately? Mommy's photos are having a serious case of the blurries!

....................................................

Sometimes it's as simple as a blurry hand.

Other times it's a blurry face with a cute little tongue sticking out.

It can even be a photo taken in motion that I almost caught, but the color came out a little off.

Or my favorite -- where you throw your head back and erupt into a fit of laughter -- and I gasp, run for the camera, and think: THIS would be the best picture!

And as the photo snaps and I hurry to take a peak at what I captured, I find this:

The perfect picture, with the cutest smile...and a little extra somethin' - somethin'; the presence of yellow tones and blur. But hey, it's okay! I still love it.

Perfect picture or not, they are reminders of our special time together. Moments I never want to forget -- like the moment above where you had the best time in the bath playing with your toys. I couldn't believe how much fun you were having and that you wanted to stay in the tub and play for so long. You had the biggest smile on your face! The kind of smile that's so big, it makes your eyes get all squinty and cute.

Then, as I went to pull you out of the bath when we were finished, I saw exactly why you may not have wanted to get out. You pooped. In the bath. Yes, pooped in the bath for the first time EVER.

That smile you're looking at says: Guess what Mommy, I left you the silliest surprise! Have fun cleaning it up! HAHA

So how could I not want to keep a photo that reminds me of a memory like that?! A poop memory is a tad gross, I agree. But a little funny too? Uh huh!

Another funny memory for the books...and the blog.

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I also know very well, Chloe, that you'll only be this little for so long. Today was a reminder of that as Daddy dressed you into your size 6 jeans early this morning before school -- the same sized jeans you've worn for months. But today he turned to me afterwards and said, "They barely fit!".

It's like you grew overnight. It's quite possible that you actually did...

Which leads me into my next point -- old photos. I can't tell you how many times I've looked at old photos like those below in disbelief, wondering where the world the past 2.5 years went. You're getting so big!

I can only imagine how Daddy feels when he looks at a photo like this, from the day you were born.

The past seven and a half years, have gone by so quickly for him.
If only we could slow it down...

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And yes, I always remember that I'm still working on my photography skills and there are many more photo op's in the future; more memories to make and capture -- camera crew present or not.

And Mommy knows very well, that over time her photo success rate will improve. It's all about trial and error, which really is a whole life lesson in itself that I could teach you as we go along. It's one that applies to everything, not just photos.

We try, we try again...and we keep moving forward. Just like Thomas The Train, your new favorite pal on the iPad. You found him and his friends one day on Netflix, all by yourself, with no Mommy or Daddy help needed. :)

And most important -- we stay positive, whether it's about a picture or some other challenge we face, because we always know there is another great moment just around the corner...

A great report from your teacher! :)

Chocolate pudding is the perfect treat for a job well done! :)

..............................................

So be gone, case of the blurries! We'd like some more clear pictures soon that Mommy can print and frame. But for now, while we're at it -- we'll look at one more blurry find from the week. It's one of you on your trampoline.

Oh how I love that smile!

Love you lots, little one! Big hugs & kisses from me to you!

Someday

2012-02-26T20:29:00.002-08:00

Dear Chloe,

One of my favorite websites lately is Pinterest. It's a website where you can "pin" and share all of the amazing things you find on the web -- like crafts ideas for you, shopping ideas for me, inspirational photos and quotations, recipes, and more. I've found a lot of cool things on it, many of which I've even used or made, though none compare to this very special "pin" I found tonight.

It touched my heart and made me tear up, because this brother and sister share a bond that is just like the one Daddy and I share with you. It's so special.

And someday, Chloe, we're going to do something like this together! :)

Source: 9gag.com via Katie on Pinterest

I love you, Little C...with all my heart.

Camera Crew Tuesday: Video Share

2012-02-21T22:54:00.001-08:00

Dear Chloe,

As I sat down to write you my weekly Camera Crew Tuesday letter and I scoured through all the photos I'd taken this week...

Starbucks trips in the car with Mom

Wagon rides with Daddy & Mommy

Kiki, our cat, hanging with Daddy & I as we finished up your Valentines

You figuring out how to use the water fountain at the park by our house
-- ALL by yourself

Daddy & I's iPhone wars at night when you're fast asleep ;)

...it occurred to me that no photo I've taken this week {no matter how cute or how perfect it would be for a Tuesday post} could compare to the video I captured of you just a few days ago.

And really, I can't even come up with the words to describe the magic of that moment. All I know is, as I sat there with you on your bed, iPhone in hand, and my jaw wide open -- I could do nothing but take it all in and watch in amazement. Sit there and just be proud.

...................................................

I watched as you started up an app you had long ignored on your iPad, one that just so happens to teach you how to spell and write. I watched as you went to the section that prompts and teaches you how to write capital letters. And I watched as you then, took your little pointer finger and traced the lines to write each one.

{oh big mama tears...}

I watched, Chloe, as you were teaching yourself how to write.

Not once, have I ever denied you enjoyed learning nor that you were capable of doing this. I've even sat down and tried to teach you this same skill, as has Mrs. Brown, your reading teacher. But did I ever think you'd do it without me prompting you to? Did I ever think you'd do it this week -- the week you're struggling with feeling misunderstood at school?

Not a chance.

And so here I sit - wowed and beaming with pride, as I eagerly {and a bit nervously} anticipate the coming months ahead. So excited and full of so many emotions, that I can barely get my fingers to strike the keys as I type this.

We have a big journey ahead for our family, Chloe; one that I promise to share the details about with you this week. It's a journey, a decision, a choice...that Daddy and I have long wrestled over. But that video...oh that video! And that moment. It just confirmed for me that Daddy and I made the right choice.

Good things are a brewin', my love. Very - Good - Things.

...............................................

So here it is, the moment I'm so delighted to show you. My video share, that not even the absence of a camera crew that I so-wish-we-had, could keep me from missing.

...Besides, that's what an iPhone is for, right?!

And for the record -- if I would have kept the video rolling, I would have caught footage of you writing a capital letter "I" several times as well. {Yay Chloe!}

We Love You, Chloe, for being you...and for all the amazing things you do!

We're are so so so proud!

The Perfect Retreat

2012-02-18T23:44:00.000-08:00

Dear Chloe,

One thing we love to do on weekend mornings, is go for "coffee runs" and head down to the beach. We really are blessed that it's so close by and that we can go for visits anytime we'd like.

It's the perfect retreat!

Daddy and I plan to buy a beach house down there one day. It's our big dream. And some day we'll make it come true -- you just wait and see!

Something tells me that some day isn't too far away. We're already planning...

.................................................

Our visits to the beach are our way of recharging after a long week, sometimes even our escape after an exhausting day. It is there, with our feet in the sand, our pant cuffs filled to the brim, that we feel most at home.

And today, my love, was no exception.

..................................................

While there, we saw parasailers fly above us in the sky.

You enjoyed piggy back rides.

And we ran up and down the beach.

We threw shells into the ocean and we played.

Today, we had fun. And it felt good.

We soaked up that sun and enjoyed our time together -- feeling refreshed once again when it was time to leave; ready to take on whatever next, may decide to come our way.

Today, Chloe, was a fantastic day! It was exactly what we needed.

Perhaps tomorrow, we'll do it again...

Camera Crew Tuesday: Happy "Harts" Day

2012-02-14T19:40:00.000-08:00

Dear Chloe,

Happy Valentine's Day! Or should I say Happy "Harts" Day {yes, as in Hartsfield -- our last name}, the one time of the year we can put a creative spin on a holiday by including a piece of our last name in it. Kinda like when Daddy calls himself "Stanta" at Christmas. ;)

I must admit, Valentine's Day is becoming one of my favorite holidays. Not only because I have two people that I love, you and Daddy, to celebrate with, but also because we get to be crafty and make cute little Valentine's for your friends & teachers like this:

Don't the "fish" valentine's for your friends just scream, "This is from Chloe!"?

We thought so. :)

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If our camera crew was present last night, they would have gotten footage of our last minute efforts to throw the rest of your Valentine's together. We started them earlier in the weekend and then procrastinated our way into Monday night -- deciding that trips to the park, visits with friends, a few rounds of "crow hunting" for the perfect pictures for Daddy's Blog, and dinner & movie nights -- were far more important than glueing and tying ribbons. ;)

One photo I captured during the "crow hunt"

There would be late night footage {okay, not that late -- only 9 pm} of Mom with a cup of coffee next to her, Dad with a pair of scissors in his hands, and a table covered with pink and red delights -- scrapbook paper, stamped cut-outs, ribbons, markers & pens, and printouts that said "Hugs & Kisses -- Love Chloe". There would be footage of me splattering white ink everywhere {those sharpie pens are never nice to me!}, as I tried to write your teacher's name on the Valentine's Mailbox we got for her. Luckily, any major crisis was adverted and not one single splatter landed on her gift...just everywhere else. ;)

They'd catch moments of Daddy and I joking about experiences you've had at school and Daddy teasing Mommy about how much of a perfectionist I am {and I really am -- I can't even deny it}. That would of course, be followed by footage of Daddy impersonating me and the way I always interrupt him with questions when he's busy working away and helping me with my latest crafty idea -- in this case, cutting perfect circles while on "circle cutting duty" with meat scissors because our craft ones have gone missing.

Last night, "Stanta" was my little helper. ;)

He's really got his impersonation of me down to a "T", Chloe, and he knows just when to show it off. He knows when I'm stressed or if I'm tired, I won't be able to help but laugh. And I love that about him.

I love Daddy's sense of humor, I love the way he keeps me laughing, and I love how he reminds me to not stress about the small stuff. He is the perfect compliment to my fiery, sometimes dramatic personality. I love him for all those reasons and for so many more.

And for moments like this {and his more literal impersonations}:

And before the camera crew left for the night, they would have caught a moment just before we went to bed where I leaned over and told Daddy, "You make me so happy". He makes me happier than I've ever been. And really, that share was an understatement.

Chloe, he is the love of my life.

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Today we sent you off to school with a few treats for your friends and teachers, and we can't wait to hear how it goes! We're thinking they will be a big hit!

And these should be arriving in the mail today. We sent them to our friends & family over the weekend:

We even went to the UPS store to pick up these Valentine's themed stamps -- the perfect touch to any special snail-mail gram. :)

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Most of all, Chloe, today is a reminder for me about how blessed I am to have you and Daddy in my life. Today isn't just one more day to say I love you, it's the day to say I always have. It's my day to say -- thank you for always loving me back and for all the special things you to do; for all the joy you bring into my life.

I'm truly touched and honored that God gave me two such beautiful gifts and there's not a single day I take either one of you for granted, as I am never too quick to forget the days and holidays I spent without you.

Thank you for showering me with your love, not just on "Harts Day", but all year long.

We love you so very much, Chloe! So - Very - Much!

TGI...Thursday!

2012-02-09T22:16:00.000-08:00

Dear Chloe,

Today was the most beautiful day -- sunny and 80 degrees. I have no idea how the weather managed to go from 57 on Tuesday to 80 degrees today {I suspect global warming may actually exist}, or why exactly we are having such warm and beautiful days in February -- but we tried not to question it and rather just embrace it.

And so what do we do on such a beautiful days? Well, we go to the park of course!

And take trips in your wagon.

We have visits with Grandma.

Introducing "Grandma Sandy" {my mom} to the blog. She came to visit today.

We hang out on the swings.

And practice our new wave.

We also enjoy the comfort in the old one too.

And your new favorite? We walk your "dolly" outside in your baby stroller.

On days like today, Chloe, we enjoy them for exactly what they are -- wonderful and unexpected surprises.

Just like this photo:

Oh how it makes me smile!

We Love You, Little C! Every day and always.

Camera Crew Tuesday: A Recap

2012-02-07T23:25:00.001-08:00

Dear Chloe,

If our imaginary film crew were here this week, they'd catch all sorts of new, never before seen footage. Like you smiling in the camera or saying hello with your new wave.

All week long, we and the rest of the ABA crew have been waving backwards, so you'll flip your hand around and wave forward. It's working marvelously!

See? :)

.................................................

They'd see me hang the art Aunt Krissy {my youngest sister} painted for us for Christmas. It was her way of contributing to our blog and I'm so proud to have it hanging in our house.

This week -- I finally decided on the perfect spot for it. :)

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There would be footage of our trips to the park where you climb up the stairs and go down the slide like a pro now. No parent pep-talk or demonstration needed.

I actually sat on sidelines taking pictures for the first time this week, which believe it or not felt strange. I guess that's why I got up there anyway after snapping a few shots.

I will always like playing with you, my Little C. Always.

...Sometimes we even make new {lost} friends while we're there, and hangout with them until their mommy or daddy finds them.

..........................................

This week, I wish we had on film, Daddy coming in the door with a big smile on his face and this gigantic bear in his arms. I will always look at this bear and remember why we got it -- for our "like Christmas moment" when our big girl used her words to tell us she had to go potty.

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And despite our lack of film crew and the fact that we aren't on some reality TV show that documents our every move, Mom did manage to catch this:

A hand holding moment we shared at Starbucks. I love how you love to wrap your hands around mine. It is by far one of my favorite photos I caught from this week.

One day I'll look down and your hands will be bigger, and I'll miss these moments; the days your little hands could fit in the palm of my hand. I hope you'll always want to hold hands with me, no matter how old you get.

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And lastly, there were nightly wagon rides like this:

Your little pointer finger is always out, showing off to us what you see. It's so exciting when you point and use your words together, naming the things you see. On this night, you and Daddy were pointing out the moon.

And when we got home, there were cuddling in bed moments like this:

These moments will never grow old. I love watching the way you love your baby doll. I love that you're in this phase. It makes me happy and it's so incredibly sweet.

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Film crew or not -- every week I'm reminded of how special these moments are that we're sharing, some I know, may only happen once before you grow bigger and move onto the next phase. You'll only be little for so long and I'm so glad I have this blog to share with you all of our moments together. One day I promise -- we'll read all these together.

It was another great week, C. Another great week that I'm so happy to call you mine. We're so proud of you and all that you're doing!

We Love You {Syrup}, Chloe, with all our hearts.

Valentine's Day Cards

2012-02-06T17:04:00.000-08:00

These will be coming to your homes soon! :)

It's almost Cupid's Day!

Up & Down

2012-02-04T23:54:00.000-08:00

Dear Chloe,

Today was a good day, no doubt about it. Daddy and I can't believe how quickly you're learning, how much you're growing. I know I say it all the time, but it's really true. It's just all happening so fast!

You really are our "big girl" now.

Before heading to bed, I couldn't resist sharing with you a quick little video from today. Daddy and I were smiling, ear to ear!

Oh C, there's not one single day you don't make us proud!

Love you, always.

P.S. One more thing! Yesterday you told us you had to go potty twice, without any prompting, and then you went! This is a BIG deal for you to use your words and tell us you have to go! So what did Daddy do? He brought you home a "surprise" to celebrate.

I think you two are going to be very good friends. :)

The Toe Game

2012-02-03T17:19:00.000-08:00

Dear Chloe,

It's Friday and boy has it been a long week! You've worked so hard and it shows -- you're literally blossoming before our eyes!

Our Camo Mama, taking her baby for a jog. ;)

Yep, that's ice dripping down your hands. Oh how you *still* love it so...

I love when you burst into fits of laughter!

My favorite moment of the week? Our trip to see Mrs. Dawn, your speech specialist. We go and see her every week on Wednesdays. You've heard me talk about doing this before and this week was no exception. Only well, this week you weren't quite in the mood to "work".

You threw a few things in her office, took off your shirt, and removed your socks and shoes in protest. You do this sometimes in an effort to convey to us adults just how much you don't want to do something. And have to admit, Daddy and I find it pretty creative...humorous even!

You are so strong willed, honey, and you have no problems asserting yourself. This I know, will come in handy more when you're older. It's a trait I love about you; one that we share. Like Mother, Like Daughter. ;)

So what did Mrs. Dawn do? She made a game out of it...which I loved! I've now named it "The Toe Game" and I'm guessing this won't be the last time we play it. ;)

What we love about Mrs. Dawn, is that she does exactly the same types of things Daddy & I do when we find ourselves in a pickle. We get creative, we take a new route, we come up with a new plan. There is always another way to get things done; always another new game we can create!

And as you can see, Mrs. Dawn knows that too. :)

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I'm looking forward to a great weekend ahead, Little C! It'll be nice to just kick back, relax, and enjoy our family time together! I'll be back tomorrow to share more adventures from our weekend! :)

We Love You, Chloe!! So very, very much!