Daniel's First Snow Day

Who says it never gets cold in California?

This is Little Bill (aka Daniel's new best friend). Daniel has become obsessed with Little Bill. He wants Ben to read him a Little Bill book every night. He even goes as far as to call me 'Brenda' (Little Bill's mom) so that I can respond, "Yes, Little Bill." He loves when I do that.

Long Beach Aquarium

The best day to visit The Long Beach Aquarium has got to be October 31st. No crowds. Just great weather.

Daniel's favorite part was when the scuba diver gave him a high five. He was talking about that all night.

Daniel was still a little skittish around the lorikeets, but much better considering the bird incident last time.

Max and Daniel

I love this picture of Daniel and his cousin Max.

When your cousins visit all the way from Atlanta, Georgia of course you have to have an In-N-Out Burger.

Summer Vacation

This year we took Daniel to Disneyland and stayed at the Grand Californian Hotel for 3 days. The highlight of the trip was definitely having breakfast with the characters. It was so much fun we had to do it twice. Daniel met Pinocchio, Chip and Dale, and characters from The Jungle Book. The Finding Nemo ride quickly turned Disneyland into the scariest place on earth, but we survived.

A Day with Thomas

I'm sure it's obvious to us all now that if Daniel is able to tie a train into any particular day, it's a good day. As part of our summer fun we all went out to Magic Mountain to check out the new Knapford Station. The highlight was meeting Sir Topham Hatt. Daniel was pleased to see him wearing a tie.

Then Daniel rode Percy about a dozen times.

Summer Fun

Today we enjoyed visiting with all the animals at the Los Angeles Zoo. We spent the day with Grandpa Alfonso. First we had to ride the train and pony to get warmed up.

Then we went to the zoo. No stroller. I think we're ready for Disneyland again.

First Movie

We decided to take Daniel to see his first movie and what happened? Of course he fell asleep.

And the Award Goes To...

Daniel got his first award today! We are so proud of him. I forgot my camera, so I had to settle for my camera phone. You may not be able to see what it says but it says " Daniel attained a high degree of proficiency in sharing, listening, following directions, participating in group activities, cutting, writing, number and alphabet recognition, playing games, taking care of his own needs and helping others." Congratulations Daniel. We love you!

On the farm

Three years ago today, Ben and I received the phone call we had been waiting for. The one that we had been praying for, for so long. The one that would change our lives forever. Our son was born and we received the greatest blessing we could ever imagine. As we look at Daniel today we are reminded of what a special gift we have received and are overwhelmed with happiness.

Today Daniel spent his day doing all of his favorite things. We went on a class field trip to Underwood Farms in Moorpark. Daniel had a blast. First we went on a tractor ride

Then we picked some strawberries. First Daniel had to test them to make sure they were worth picking. They passed.

The day just wouldn't have been complete without a pony ride or two

and a train ride of course.

All Aboard!

To celebrate Daniel's achievement of now becoming a "Big Boy" we rewarded him by taking him to the train of his dreams... a real life Thomas. First we prepared Daniel with Thomas shorts, a Thomas t-shirt, Thomas hat ... he was even wearing Thomas underwear! We headed out to Fillmore which was only about 45 minutes away. Of course, Daniel was so excited he didn't take his nap, but sleep is overrated right? We met up with Daniel's favorite cousin Jared and had a blast. Did I mention it was a little hot? So what is the best way to cool off on a hot day?

With shaved ice of course!

Misadventure

A week ago today, Daniel was admitted to the hospital for dehydration. The vomiting and diarrhea that had been going on for 4 days depleted him completely. He was admitted on Tuesday and immediately put on an IV. Poor Daniel, now is afraid of doctors. It didn't help that nurses had to wake him , check for vital signs and draw blood at midnight, 2 AM, and 6 AM. Of course we both stayed with him. We are so grateful to have him home again and eating. He is apparently now making up for lost meals. This is one adventure we hope to soon forget.

Pictureless

Ben wouldn't let me take a picture but I just have to share that our little guy has pooped in the potty for THREE whole days now. We are so proud and he isn't even 3 yet! Good job Daniel!

First Field Trip

Today was a very exciting day for Daniel. He went on his first field trip to the Fire Station. Of course he had to wear his own Fire Rescue jacket. All of the fire fighters congratulated him.

Of course Daniel had to try out the fire hose to make sure it was up to code...

and inspect the trucks. It was all very exciting.

Undeniably Mexican

Why, might you ask is Daniel so happy?

because he loves MARIACHIS!

We went to an anniversary party on Friday night and Daniel couldn't even eat because he was so

excited to sing and clap with the mariachis.

Yes, Daniel is undeniably Mexican.

The Joy of School

Remember when you were little and you loved school? I do. It fills me with absolute joy to see that same joy in my son's eyes...

4 Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed

Yes, we let Daniel jump on the bed, and his friends too. Who needs a jumper right? On Saturday, we celebrated Maylin. She's a big sister now.

Daniel, Samuel, Grace, and Maylin all ate special cupcakes (of course they tried to eat the Disney decorations too).

It was a beautiful day.

Back To School

Daniel had his first day back to school today. He is such a great listener and loves participating. Just when I think he's going to chicken out he totally blows me away. This is the best class for our shy little guy. Mrs. Sandy, his teacher is wonderful and makes an effort to encourage oral participation. We love Mommy and Me!

Disneyland Day 2

For some reason Daniel is a little freaked out by the characters.

Our Adventures in Disneyland

By far, Daniel's favorite ride was Small World

where he couldn't point fast enough. Every 2 seconds he would say "Mira! Mommy Mira!"

For Daniel, we rode the train about 20 times