The Lansek Family Adventure

Father's Day

2011-06-22T05:38:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day Brian! Our daddy works so hard and we so appreciate everything he does. We enjoyed a great day where all the dads could relax, eat and swim.

Strawberry Picking

2011-06-22T05:29:00.000-07:00

Another great year of strawberry picking. It was a short berry season here in PA and the fruit was smaller than normal but we still managed to pick about 12lbs. of deliciousness!

Mini Golf

2011-06-22T05:27:00.000-07:00

End of the school year treat with the Torrisi Family

Muscle Men

2011-06-22T05:22:00.000-07:00

Walking Path 2011

We All Live Togther

2011-06-22T05:09:00.000-07:00

THIS makes me SMILE!!

Movin' On Up!

2011-06-17T10:41:00.000-07:00

It's official...I have a 1st grader! Carter "moved up" this past week in a fantastic ceremony. It is hard to believe that the year passed so quickly but somehow summer break is here and kindergarten is behind him. True to himself, Carter stepped up to the plate and made great progress all while have fun and making new friends. We are so unbelievably proud of our boy.

Carter up on the top riser.

Carter and his class...they are a great bunch of kids.
Our graduate!

Carter and Joey showing off their well deserved "diplomas".

Carter and his wonderful teacher, Mrs. Buehrer!

Gone Fishin'

2011-06-16T08:22:00.000-07:00

We went fishing with Mimi and Poppy a couple of weekends ago and the boys did really well considering it was their first real fishing experience.

Mama swan and her 4 babies that reside at the lake.

Carter's first ever fish. It is a sunny but he casted, hooked and reeled this guy in all by himself. He was quite proud!
Poppy hooked a nice trout and Elijah reels him in!
Now that's what I call teamwork!

It was a great time and the boys can't wait to go fishing again.

Shafer Carnival

2011-06-16T08:08:00.000-07:00

Carter's end of the year carnival was a blast. He waited for weeks and was especially excited when he found out his principal would be in the dunk tank! Aside from the fun of trying out the dunk tank, there was food, bounce houses and other games to enjoy.

Carter with his principal.

Carter tries out the dunk tank.
Carter and his most wonderful teacher.

Elijah enjoys the carnival.

Trying to win some prizes at the duck pond.

Face time with the Roadrunner.

Field Day

2011-06-11T05:12:00.001-07:00

GREAT field day at Shafer! I helped out and the kids had a great time! The weather was beautiful and the school's gym teacher put together an awesome day for all the grades. I was in charge of the potato sack races and loved watching all the classes participating and having a so much fun. Perfect Day!!

Ready, Set, GROW!

2011-06-07T03:02:00.000-07:00

The boys had their healthy visits yesterday. All went great and both are in perfect health. Their stats are:

Carter:

48 inches tall (2 inch growth)

48 pounds (2 pounds heavier)

Elijah:

39 1/2 inches tall (3 inch growth)

35 pounds (5 pounds heavier)

No shots for Carter but 2 shots for Eli (which he handled like a champ) and both were given a clean bill of health until next year's appointment.

Memorial Day Program

2011-06-05T17:06:00.000-07:00

Carter's school had a fantastic Memorial Day program. The students sang patriotic songs and the were many Veterans as well as men and woman currently serving our great country. What a wonderful way to give these children a better understanding of Memorial Day!

**I love this picture of Carter...it is like "Where's Waldo?', only we call it 'Where's Carter?'

Happy Belated Birthday!

2011-06-05T17:04:00.000-07:00

OOoops...I forgot to post Happy Birthday wishes to my Dad! Happy belated Dad..May this be your best year yet! Love you!!

Happy Memorial Day

2011-05-29T17:54:00.001-07:00

The Lansek Family wishes you a Happy Memorial Day.

We also thank all of our service men and women, both past and present, for protecting our great nation.

God Bless America!

So Very Handsome

2011-05-16T06:56:00.000-07:00

Spring Portrait

Muffins with Moms

2011-05-16T06:53:00.001-07:00

Last week Eli and I celebrated Mother's Day with the school's annual Muffins with Moms breakfast. This is truly one of my favorite days out of the whole year. The children make the most wonderful gifts for the moms and we sing, craft and enjoy muffins! A great morning with and even greater son!

WOW!!.....

2011-05-16T03:13:00.000-07:00

Where did this past year go?

Somebody is moving to 1st grade next year!

Barnyard Days

2011-05-14T05:26:00.000-07:00

Eli enjoyed his end of the year field trip to Barnyard Days put on by a local high school. Both Brian and I went and we all had a great time. There were many animals to look at and learn about. There were also baby chicks and ducklings that the kids could touch as well as newly laid turkey and chicken eggs. Eli enjoyed the tractors and the large rabbit that would play fetch. After enjoying a snack of ice cream we went out to lunch with several of Eli's friends and their parents. It was a perfect day.

Happy Happy Birthday!!

2011-05-09T05:05:00.000-07:00

Today Mimi/my Mom turns 55! We want to wish her the happiest of birthdays! We are so lucky to have such a special lady in our lives and we love you very much! Here's to a beautiful sunshiny day and many more years filled with love ad happiness! May your day be a fabulous as you are!

**there are no pictures to attach since that portion of the day was a disaster. even without pictures we still enjoyed some delicious cake!**

Easter 2011

2011-05-06T07:29:00.001-07:00

Easter has come and gone and we had an interesting holiday. I am not sure if it is Carter being a part of the public school system for the first time or if we just have low immune systems this year but Carter and I both came down with the flu over the holiday. (The stomach bug for Christmas and the flu for Easter...YUK!) I suppose that a bright note is both sicknesses occurred over a holiday and school was not in session and Carter didn't miss as many days as he would have....no matter we still made the best of our holiday.

Mimi and Poppy got the boys Easter ducklings and the boys enjoyed watching them grow. And grow they did! Our three weeks with them passed very quickly and they now reside at a local farm where they can enjoy all the comforts of being a duck!

We also enjoyed the other traditions of Easter....egg painting, an Easter egg hunt and some limited visiting of family. (didn't want to spread the germs)

The boys, as always, are so very lucky and received lots of baskets from the Easter bunny.

Even with the nasty flu we managed to have a very blessed Easter!

Happy Birthday Elijah!

2011-04-17T16:13:00.000-07:00

Today our Elijah turned 4! Time it seems is flying by and I can't believe my baby is already 4 with an ever growing personality and attitude!!

The day was filled with family, friends, cake, legos, soccer balls and a bounce house of your very own. We hope that all your wishes came true sweet Eli because all of our wishes came true when you arrived and completed our family!! Love you xo

Music Man

2011-04-14T14:05:00.000-07:00

My little music man.

April Showers Bring May Flowers

2011-04-14T13:59:00.000-07:00

Carter's Spring flower that is decorating the hallway outside of his classroom. Carter loved this project, especially since I introduced him to puffy paint for this beautiful flower.

Happy Birthday Carter!

2011-04-10T17:32:00.000-07:00

WOW! So Carter is 6! I thought turning 5 was a big deal but somehow this year's milestone seems bigger. Last year I still had a pre-schooler, now I have a Lego loving kindergartner who is growing at such a rapid pace it is hard for his Dad and I to keep up. You are amazing, Buddy!! You are growing and maturing into such a thoughtful and polite young man and you make us so proud....WE LOVE YOU!

Wishing you the happiest birthdays! xo

Spring Babies

2011-04-03T05:22:00.001-07:00

The Spring season is birthday season for the Lansek Boys. Just like Spring flowers these three are growing like crazy and they are handsome to boot!

Daddy's Breakfast

2011-04-03T05:18:00.000-07:00

Daddy and Elijah before leaving for their annual pre school Father's Breakfast. They had a lot of fun and Daddy came home with handmade treasures including a tie, place mat and flashlight to name a few. This breakfast is one of Elijah's favorite things about school.

Happy Birthday Colin

2011-04-03T05:15:00.001-07:00

Colin celebrated his 1st Birthday last week. We had a great party with him and he learned how fantastic cake is! We are very lucky to have such an adorable nephew!

Fat Tuesday

2011-03-08T16:48:00.000-08:00

Fat Tuesday=donuts! Yummy delicious donuts! Mimi and Poppy brought all the good stuff we needed to make them and then stayed to enjoy the end result. Both boys went to school on the most wonderful sugar high because as we all now, a donut just isn't a donut with out sugar, sprinkles, icing, cinnamon and confectioners sugar! MMmmm....finger lickin' good!

Who's the Boss?

2011-03-08T16:45:00.001-08:00

We have begun our bathroom remodel and quite obviously Elijah is the supervisor in charge of the project.

Check back for before and after pics!

Read Across America

2011-03-08T16:38:00.001-08:00

Carter enjoyed Read Across America week. Last week the school had a Dr. Seuss theme everyday and The Cat in the Hat even came to read to the students! Happy belated Birthday, Dr. Seuss!

(Carter models his Seuss-themed hat.)

A Day in the Life of McGraw....

2011-02-16T19:42:00.000-08:00

Elijah enjoys his lunch, while McGraw just waits......

100th Day

2011-02-16T19:35:00.001-08:00

Carter celebrated his 100th Day of school today. Kindergarten made crowns and Carter chose to decorate his with 100 animal stickers. It is hard to believe that my baby has been a kindergartner for 100 days already. The year is just flying by even with many snow days! Enjoy the pictures of our little King!

More Snow Fun!

2011-02-05T06:33:00.001-08:00

We spent last Sunday at Mimi and Poppy's enjoying some outdoor fun. We built a fort and went sleigh riding and had a snowball fight....SO MUCH FUN!!

The greatest thing about these pictures is the wide open space. It is nice to know that there are still places in the Lehigh Valley that have not been filled with industrial parks or housing developments. There are still places where the farmers care enough to put their land in preservation and not sell out....and the result is a great place to sleigh ride in the winter!

The below pictures are the fort that we built...

Hibachi

2011-02-05T06:25:00.000-08:00

We took the boys for their first Hibachi experience last night. We had a great time and Carter and Eli loved it. (except for the big flame that started the show) Elijah asked if we can go back for his birthday celebration!

Chopstick 101

SNOW!SNOW!SNOW!

2011-02-05T04:55:00.001-08:00

This Winter has been filled with snow! Every week a new system moves in and drops fresh accumulations. This means lots of snow days (we are up to 6 at the writing of this post) and a lot of playtime and sledding. I can not remember a Winter like this for a long time and we are enjoying every bit of it. Carter and Elijah are now waiting for a HUGE storm to come through and drop at least a foot or two of snow!!

Science Guys

2011-02-05T04:47:00.001-08:00

One of Carter's top Christmas gifts was a science kit. The boys and I spent a snowy afternoon doing some experiments.

"Growing" crystals.
Changing the color of liquids.

After all that science, Eli takes a cookie break!

Hey Santa Claus...Christmas 2010

2011-01-29T13:42:00.000-08:00

Carter and Elijah had a wonderful Christmas and got everything (and then some) on their list. Legos, a bowling alley, basketball net, wallets with money, Thomas, pillow pets and the Wii are just some of the top gifts!

Santa sure was good to them!

3rd Annual Santa Visit

2011-01-17T05:50:00.000-08:00

Every year our neighbors host a Christmas party complete with a visit from Santa! It is so much fun and has become a tradition that we all look forward to!

Carter with Santa. Look at that excitement!

Elijah and Santa.
Happy Holidays from the Lanseks.

The boys were so excited that Mallory joined in the holiday fun this year.

Good little girls and boys with Santa.

Happy New Year

2011-01-16T11:31:00.000-08:00

Welcome 2011! Wishing all of our loved ones a wonderful new year!

I ended 2010 behind in my blogging. I will be catching up and apologize that it took a new year for me to get Christmas photos up! I am blaming it on the stomach bug that took over our house during the holidays.

Little Lamb

2010-12-21T05:26:00.001-08:00

Elijah was a little lamb in this year's pre-school Christmas program and he did a great job. He probably was the cutest lamb in the flock!! The children did a fantastic job with the play and then sang songs for all the families. What a wonderful time!

Elijah and a classmate during the play.

My little lamb.
Looking so handsome before we left.

Happy Holidays.....

2010-12-08T10:43:00.000-08:00

.....from our home to yours.

Yes, that is snow falling!

Perfect Attendance

2010-12-08T10:38:00.000-08:00

Carter had perfect attendance for the first quarter in school and his achievement was recognized yesterday at an assembly. Parents were invited and we loved seeing Carter so proud. We also enjoyed seeing how well behaved he was during the assembly. All the kindergartners were invited which made Carter feel even more special.

Way to go, Buddy!

Santa Claus is Coming to Town

2010-12-03T03:27:00.001-08:00

The boys made their trip to see Santa and eagerly gave him their lists. Santa listened and then reminded them that he is always watching. Carter, as always, loved Santa and this year Elijah did great! (Some of you may remember last year's picture with the tears)

Happy Holidays to you all and we hope you get everything on your list....just remember he knows who is naughty and who is nice!

Thankful

2010-11-25T09:36:00.001-08:00

Wishing you all a very blessed Thanksgiving. Today I am most thankful for my Pilgrim and Indian.

Turkey Lunch

2010-11-23T07:47:00.001-08:00

Carter's school invited the parents in to enjoy a turkey lunch. After a brief classroom observation we headed to the cafeteria to enjoy everything from turkey to pumpkin pie.

Brian and I really enjoyed the morning, especially our time in Carter's classroom. Carter is doing a super job and continues to love everything about school.

Handsome Devils

2010-11-15T10:42:00.001-08:00

2010 School pictures are in and are fantastic! What handsome boys!

Elijah

Junior Pre School
Carter
Kindergarten

Halloween

2010-11-15T05:43:00.001-08:00

Halloween was so much fun this year! The boys were so into trick or treating and enjoyed every second they had to collect candy from all of our neighbors.

Our pumpkins. The boys drew the faces they wanted and Brian and I carved. I think they came out really cool!

Getting ready to head out with Nini, Mimi and Poppy.
This is trick or treat Lansek style!

Fall Celebrations Galore

2010-10-30T12:14:00.000-07:00

Elijah gets ready to celebrate at his fall festival.

So darn cute.
Already a ladies man.

Elijah and his class.

Carter enjoying every single moment of his school parade.

And the parade continues.

He looks so grown up here.

Wishing you a Happy Fall.....

2010-10-30T12:12:00.000-07:00

.....from the always adorable Lansek Boys!!

Harvest Festival

2010-10-30T12:04:00.000-07:00

Harvest Festival was so much fun! Put on by the PTA, we enjoyed games, pumpkin decorating, a raffle and lots of sweet treats. Carter had a blast and loved hanging with Mallory and Joey! The first of many fun school activities for sure.

Elijah's Pumpkin Patch Trip

2010-10-30T11:55:00.000-07:00

Elijah and I enjoyed his Pumpkin Patch trip at Fulmer Farms this year. We had a very good time complete with pumpkin picking and a hayride through the woods surrounding the farm. It was a great morning, that was not too cold, with some great friends.

Elijah showing off his pumpkin.
Now showing that he is done with the picture taking.

With friends Emma and Trevor.

With his best girl, Sarah.

Riding the WK&S Line

2010-10-26T06:56:00.000-07:00

We enjoyed the Kempton train several weekends ago with Nini. What a great way to spend a gorgeous Sunday. The train station is in the country and the tracks run along a creek and some fantastic farmland. Carter and Elijah especially enjoyed our stop at Wanamaker station. It was at this stop the engine was moved to the back of the train so it could pull us back to Kempton rather push....the boys loved this! It was a perfect day and we can not wait to go back!

Cutest Pumpkin in the Patch

2010-10-18T05:55:00.000-07:00

Elijah's jack-o-lantern that is growing in the pumpkin patch in his classroom.

Fall Fun

2010-10-11T08:22:00.000-07:00

Carter and Elijah enjoy their first trip to Beltzville. They were amazed by the size and loved watching all the boats on the water. Another big hit? The fact that there was a sandy beach and all the rocks and shells that one could skip across the water.

Pumpkin Patch

2010-10-08T06:32:00.000-07:00

We enjoyed the Open Gate Farm Tour last weekend. Every year during the first weekend of October farms across the county open their gates to the public. Carter and Elijah LOVE it! We only had time to go to Klein Farms and Dairy (Forks Township, PA) but that's the only farm the boys really wanted to go to anyway. Great fun included a hayride, pumpkin patch, corn maze, feeding a goat, getting up close and personal with a 2 day old calf, hot dogs, popcorn and soda! Enjoy the photos from our day!

Elijah peeks in on the cows below.
Finding the perfect pumpkin with Mimi, Poppy and Peanut.

Daddy and Carter pumpkin pickin'.

My little pumpkins!

Eli and Peanut pooped after their trip to the patch.

Feeding a new friend.

Elijah loved the corn maze.

Loved this little calf. We are lucky enough to know the farmer and could go right in with him!

Lansek Lads

2010-10-07T07:51:00.001-07:00

Our little nephew, Colin, is growing so quickly. Carter and Elijah love when he comes to PA for visits!

Carter William 5 1/2 years, Elijah Brian 3 1/2 years and Colin William 6 months

Happy Birthday to You!

2010-09-21T17:00:00.000-07:00

Today is Daddy's birthday! We wish you the happiest day ever and love you very much!! Happy 37!

Official Roadrunner

2010-09-20T10:44:00.001-07:00

I love this picture! It is his happiest, cheesiest smile! Thank you to all our family and friends for checking in. Carter is really enjoying school so far. He loves the bus and music class and has even made some new friends. All is great and we have adjusted just fine, especially Elijah, who is not missing Carter in the least! Continue to check back for school updates.

1st Day of Preschool

2010-09-07T07:48:00.001-07:00

To infinity and beyond! A new journey begins....

Today Elijah began a new preschool year as a junior. We got Carter on the bus at 7:42am and by 7:45am, Elijah had strapped on his back pack and was ready to go! We held him off until about 8:30 (class begins and 9:15) and he then settled for a little ride before going to the school. He was so happy to his old friends from last year, but was a little confused that he was no longer in the Tots room. Not to worry, once Mrs. McAtee opened the door he was the first one in and was playing when Brian and I left him. I thinks it's going to be a GREAT year!

1st Day of Kindergarten

2010-08-30T17:54:00.000-07:00

He did it! Today Carter went to kindergarten and everything went great. He was so excited to ride the bus. He told us very little except that his teacher seemed nice and he had fun exploring his room. Today was a modified day, so I am very curious to see how tomorrow goes. It will be his first full day and he will leave at 7:42am and not be dropped off until 2:35pm....Holy Cow! Something tells me he will be exhausted when he finally arrives home!

Our big boy waiting for the bus.

Carter and Joey...bus riding buddies.
I love this picture! Carter (and Elijah) is so lucky to have Nini, Mimi & Poppy and Nanny & Pappy.

Brian and I with all the boys.

Carter and the Torrisi family.

For those of you wondering...I did pretty well. I was able to hold myself together and cried only a few tears as the bus pulled away.

So long...see you later!

BIG EXCITING Changes on the Horizon

2010-08-29T12:47:00.000-07:00

It seems hard to imagine but somehow Summer has flown by in the blink of an eye and the Autumn season is on our doorstep. We had a fantastic summer and enjoyed every minute, but now we are preparing for the change of season and some new and exciting changes.

Tomorrow morning Carter will officially become a student at Shafer Elementary (the same school that mom and Uncle Jeven attended) as a kindergartner. I knew this day was coming....but this quickly??

By all accounts, he seems ready. There are still some areas that we need to focus on but Carter is eager to please and to learn, so I have no concerns at all. The focus and enthusiasm remain on the school bus ride, making new friends and meeting his teacher. He seems to understand all the big changes and responsibilities that are coming his way. This is a full time program, so we have been working hard on memorizing his account number for purchasing lunch, reviewing all of the new things he will be learning, and exploring the school building so he is familiar with the library, art room, cafeteria, gym and his classroom.

Carter's attendance of the Jumpstart program has seemed to help make for a comfortable transition as well.

I fully expect many tears but knowing that our boy is so excited and always rises to any and all challenges in his path makes the tug my heart feels just a bit easier! Stay tuned for pictures!!

Onto our Elijah.....

First, let's talk potty training! All summer I worked on potty training and all summer he resisted. No amount of bribery or promises could convince this kid to use the potty! I had given up all hope and accepted that he would begin pre-school in pull ups, and then two weeks ago he decided it was time! One morning, out of the blue, Eli asked for underwear and the rest is history.

Elijah has also had a huge leap in his speech and seems to be saying more and more daily and is much more willing to try new sounds and words. I look forward to him beginning regular speech sessions again along with pre-school.

Now onto pre-school....this year Elijah will be a junior. He is very excited to go back and can't wait to see Mrs. McAtee and his old friends from last year's class. I am so excited to see how he is going to do this year. Last year he took more of a backseat to the others and was very quiet but he has since developed a more confident personality and can communicate much better, so I think that he will really flourish this year.

It is truly amazing to me how much Carter and Elijah have grown. Brian and I continue to be so very proud of our boys and look forward watching them grow this year and every year after. Continue to check back on us for pictures and updates! Happy Fall everyone!

Sunny Days... Chasing the Clouds Away.....

2010-08-16T05:12:00.001-07:00

We recently enjoyed a trip to Sesame Place. We didn't tell the boys were we where heading off to, just said that we needed to "run errands". I loved seeing their faces when they realized our destination. Carter proclaimed that "he knew along we were coming to Sesame Place"!, but he and Elijah both were so surprised and we had a great time! Enjoy our pictures with our new friends and the fun stuff we did!

Driving the firetruck at the station on Sesame Street.

Riding the carousel.

C is for cookie....Cookie Monster!

Relaxing on Sesame Street.

Just hanging around the street.

Who doesn't want to hang with Bert and Ernie. This is my fav from the day.

My boys with Big Bird.

Elmo's world!!

Face time with Oscar.

Carter, Elijah and The Count pose for Poppy. I loved that Elijah told The Count that he was Poppy's favorite!

Exploring the stores on Sesame Street.

SCRAM! One last pose with Oscar before leaving.

Who Knew?.....

2010-08-12T12:13:00.000-07:00

...certainly not me. I came up from the basement the other day to find Elijah doing THIS across the room.

Water Balloon Fun

2010-08-12T11:48:00.000-07:00

Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Trip

2010-08-12T10:50:00.001-07:00

We visited Jeven and Julie a couple of weeks ago and managed to do a lot of fun stuff and have a great time together in very short period of time! We were very excited for this visit, we had not been to J&J's new apartment yet and Carter had requested to visit the Statue of Liberty and the boys also wanted to ride the subway.

Much credit goes to Brian who drove in and did a great job handling quite a mess (traffic) both going into the city via the Holland Tunnel, as well as coming out of the city the next day. I know I was beginning to feel a little queasy about 30 minutes into sitting in traffic and I was only occupying the passenger's seat.

Once we hit the Brooklyn Bridge it was smooth sailing and our fun began.

Here is a view of the bridge from the Brooklyn side. All of the green that you see under it is an awesome park system that is still in progress. A truly amazing project!

Love this one! The guys strolling down the promenade and checking out the NYC skyline.
Family is everything!
(Yes, I am a freak...see those tiny gaps in the fence? I was scared to death the boys would fall through and land in the river below!)

Happy Little Lansek Family

Eli was done with pictures at this point.

Jeven and I on the ferry waiting to go to Liberty Island.

CHEESE!

Daddy, Carter and Aunt Julie taking a break.

Uncle Jeven, Aunt Julie and the boys.

The Lanseks and Lady Liberty

Carter's Heaven on Earth.

Brooklyn water park. The boys loved this place.

Helping Aunt Julie in the kitchen.

Using Uncle Jev's grill for the first time and the steak was delicious!

Cutest kids on the planet.

Some people just aren't cut out for the city life. Eli was so done here!

Plainfield Farmers Fair

2010-08-10T18:02:00.000-07:00

With each passing year we enjoy the yummy food and visiting the animals less and less at the Plainfield Farmers Fair, instead the boys prefer to "try out" all of the mowers and tractors on display. Boys will be boys!!

My Boys of Summer

2010-08-10T18:00:00.000-07:00

Nazareth Day

July 2010

Vito Visits!

2010-08-10T06:13:00.001-07:00

In July the Vinciguerras visited us. Carter and Elijah were so happy to spend time with their pal, Vito and I loved having Christi and Vito Sr. here. We had a lot of fun catching up and playing and can't wait to make a trip to Rhode Island this fall to visit them!

Happy Birthday, Nini!

2010-07-26T07:43:00.001-07:00

Today is Nini's special day! Happy Birthday to you! We hope it is a great one! Much love....xo

4th of July Celebration

2010-07-20T09:29:00.001-07:00

What a great 4th of July celebration! Nothing but family, fun, swimming, eating and more fireworks than the eye could see! My idea of a perfect day, for sure!!

Uncle Jeven and Carter relax and recharge on the hammock.

Eli was in charge of swinging the hammock, a Job he took very seriously.
Enjoying "Indian Rock".

It was hot and we all enjoyed the pool.

Garritt and Korey pose.

So darn cute.

Having some ice cream before the fireworks begin around the valley.

This one is for you, Mom and Dad!

Berry Picking

2010-07-20T08:40:00.001-07:00

We went berry picking at a great little farm right before the 4th of July. We have picked apples and strawberries before but this was our first time picking blueberries and raspberries. It was a beautiful afternoon and we picked delicious berries that we are still enjoying. (and they made the best blueberry pie EVER!) Best part is that this particular farm grows different varieties of blueberries that can be picked all summer long! We will be back for sure!

Horrible Blogger

2010-07-16T10:45:00.000-07:00

Yes, I know my blogging has really been lacking and I apologize for the lapse between posts. It seems that life with a 5 year old and a 3 year old can be overwhelming to say the least. We are busy with the daily routine and fun stuff too, all of which I dutifully document with my camera. It is finding the time post that I have the most trouble with. I promise some great berry picking pictures and 4th of July pictures will be coming soon. In the meantime, I will take a minute for a quick update.

Both boys are fantastic! They are growing faster than the weeds in the garden and are in constant motion. Summer has been good to us and we are enjoying each day to the fullest.

Carter continues to be uber-excited for kindergarten in the fall and I have registered him for what the school calls their "jump start program". Chosen by lottery, he will attend to the school for 8 days in August and the hope is that he will be better prepared to for what is expected of him come the first day. It is actually a great program and one that is offered to all students in all grade levels at the elementary school. (Oh and mom is looking forward to a little 3 hour break in the morning!)

Elijah is also doing well and has really seemed to hit a nice little stride. His therapy sessions are going well and his speech is improving daily. Eli is also looking forward to returning to pre-school in the fall. He adored having Mrs. McAtee for a teacher and looks forward to her teaching him again this year. He will also be in class with Sarah again and is very excited about that.

Brian began with a very busy mowing season which has recently been halted by lack of rain. (kind of a bummer) Things at Rexroth continue to improve. Overtime in now a consistent thing and even better, employees have received slight raises (1st in two years) and even bonuses for hard work and diligence. Brian recently celebrated 10 years with the company and still really enjoys his job and the challenges that it provides him with.

As for me, I could surely find things to complain about but I am not going to to do that. I still remain extremely lucky. My husband works hard so I can continue be home with our boys, we are all healthy and life is pretty perfect in my little corner of the world. I must admit I am looking forward to the start of the new school year and some time by myself to just enjoy the quiet. Until then I fully intend to enjoy every bit if the summer sunshine with my best boys!

Three Little Toads Sitting on a Log

2010-07-07T05:00:00.001-07:00

Happy Father's Day

2010-06-20T06:50:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's day to our Daddy! You're a fantastic father and a great husband. We appreciate all that you do and love you very much! Have a wonderful day!

Happy Birthday, Aunt Jenna

2010-06-19T06:03:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday, Aunt Jenna! We hope that you have a wonderful day! xoxo

Cousins

2010-06-19T05:56:00.000-07:00

The boys enjoyed hanging out with their little cousin, Colin. Looks like very soon these three will be getting into all kinds of trouble together!

Day in the Poconos

2010-06-18T06:15:00.001-07:00

Last weekend we enjoyed Brian's company picnic at Pocono Valley Resort. We had a great time and enjoyed bouncing, face painting, balloon animals, paddle boats, pony rides, tons of good food and an ice cream bar! We played for hours and left exhausted and happy.

Carter and Daddy paddle boat.

Sweet Elijah.
Having fun in the bounce houses.

Eli rides Coco the miniature horse and loves it.

Fun with the clown. She made balloon animals and did face painting and the boys loved her!

Eli's finished art...a spider web.

Carter partakes in the ice cream bar....Yum-O!

Daddy and the boys explore the lake via a paddle boat.

The highlight of Carter's day was riding in a boat with Alec. I was a bit hesitant but Alec is very responsible and both he and his twin brother really took to Carter, so we allowed him to go and explore with a "big" kid. He returned to the dock smiling from ear to ear and loving life!!

Carter Update

2010-06-18T06:03:00.000-07:00

For those of you who are keeping up with Carter's therapy, some big exciting things have happened since his 5th birthday.

First, is that he has been released from the IU-20 program. Mrs. Chiles, his itinerant teacher feels that he has met all the goals put into place for him and there is no need to continue with the program upon entering kindergarten.

Second, is that Carter will enter into a regular school program in September with no special ed put into place! I have had several meetings with the principal, reading specialist and school psychiatrist and even thought there are areas in which Carter shows a delay, there seems to be no reason to not enter into the district in a regular classroom.

Brian, myself and the above mentioned seem to be "on the same page" and feel that once into the school routine Carter will catch up quickly.

Carter continues be very excited for school to start in September. The few trips he has made to Shafer have been very positive and he seems very comfortable there.

Brian and I are very proud of Carter. The last several years have not always been easy but it has been Carter's determination and happy-go-lucky spirit that have gotten us all to this point. Way to go, my little kindergartner!

Water Slide

2010-06-15T07:03:00.000-07:00

The boys version of a water slide. They, along with the neighbors, played on the slide and in the pool for most of the day!

Updated Pictures

2010-06-11T07:06:00.001-07:00

Last week I posted the boys updated stats after their yearly check ups and here are some new pictures so you can all see how BIG they are getting. Much like summer weeds, they are growing at an amazing pace. (And eating us out of house and home!)

Water Bugs

2010-06-08T05:01:00.000-07:00

My little bugs enjoy the warm weather with some sun and splash! Hooray for Summertime!

Happy Birthday, Uncle Jeven!

2010-06-08T04:44:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday, Uncle Jeven! We hope that you have a fantastic day! Love you very much! xoxo

Leaps and Bounds

2010-06-03T18:05:00.000-07:00

The Boys had their yearly check ups today.

Stats are as follows:

Carter

46 inches tall

46 pounds

Elijah

36 1/2 inches tall

30 pounds

Happy Birthday, Poppy!

2010-06-02T05:03:00.000-07:00

Happy 55th Birthday, Poppy! Have a wonderful day! Here's to many many more years of riding and doing all of the things you enjoy! We love you very much! xoxo
**Carter is like The Flash as he helps blow the candles out!**

Graduation

2010-05-31T18:37:00.001-07:00

Carter has officially graduated from pre-school! Brian and I are so very proud. The growth in Carter throughout his pre-school experience, especially this last year, has been amazing. Although I know he will miss his teachers and friends, he is ready to move on and very excited for kindergarten in September. Way to go, Buddy!

End of Year Parties

2010-05-31T17:59:00.001-07:00

The school year seemed to go by quicker than ever before and last week we celebrated with end of the year parties for both boys, pizza party for Eli and a family picnic for Carter. Both of the boys shared a classroom with wonderful children and great parents. It was harder for me to see the end of the school year because of that. Lots of good food and lots of fun was had by all.

Carter and Eli enjoy the ark.

Parachute time for Eli and his class.
Yum...pizza!

Eli and his class wait to be dismissed for the last time of this school year.

Elijah and his best gal, Sarah.

Carter and his Daddy enjoying the picnic.

Ever my silly boy.

Jacob, Carter and Shayna began at Faith 3 years ago in the Tots class and have been together ever since. Out of all the friends Carter has made, Jacob and Shayna remain the most talked about and will be the two that he will miss the most. They are truly his best buds and have remained a wonderful constant for him.

Carter and his Miss Marie.

Carter with Mrs. Ruggerio and Mrs. Kavcsak.

Carter and Mrs. Hartzell.

First Dip of the Season

2010-05-31T17:44:00.000-07:00

The boys have been so happy for the warm weather that has arrived because their pool has been taunting them since the snow melted! Splish splash...a fun time was had by all! The power of a garden hose and plastic pool is an unmatched simple pleasure.

They are the Cutest Kids around!

2010-05-25T04:23:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to Me!

2010-05-25T04:12:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my birthday and I spent it exactly how I wanted, with my babies. Sunday we had a nice cookout here with the family and cake....the most wonderful part was that I didn't have to prepare, cook or clean up and I got to celebrate with family.

35 feels good and I am proud of the accomplishments I have made. It seems that I continue to get better and grow with age, plus my boys keep me young!

Bike Day

2010-05-25T04:02:00.001-07:00

Last Monday was Bike Day for Carter. I was pleased to hear that he spent a lot of time riding his bike and seemed to enjoy himself. (bike riding isn't always his most favorite thing...) When not riding his bike he enjoyed the playground and snack.

I remember Carter dropping Carter off 2 years ago to his Tots room thinking that bike day from him was a LONG way off and now it has come and gone. It is amazing how time has flown by and my baby is almost a pre-school graduate!

Eyes of the Wild

2010-05-24T17:54:00.000-07:00

The boys had their year end field trip at a place called Eyes of the Wild. They enjoyed their time spent and learned a lot about many different types of animals. Brian joined us and they, also, enjoyed having Daddy along.

Listening and learning about the resident parrot at Eyes of the Wild.

Touching a Leopard Gecko...Carter liked him!

Touching the starfish.

Eli takes a turn.

This expression is priceless. (even though I cut off half his head!)

Mother's Day

2010-05-09T17:11:00.001-07:00

Happy Mother's day to all the special ladies in my life. Each and everyone of you touched me in a different way and helps to make the woman and mommy that I am.

To my boys, thank you for showing me what living is really about! I am so lucky to be YOUR mom and I love you both so very much!!

I thought a picture of me and the boys on Mother's Day would be a nice memory and I was right...yep, Eli is totally picking his nose!

Happy Birthday, Mama!

2010-05-09T17:05:00.001-07:00

Very Happy Birthday wishes to my Mom/Mimi. Today she celebrates her special day and we wish her many more...We love you!!

**the above picture of the cake shows Carter's added touches!**

Muffins with Mom

2010-05-09T16:51:00.000-07:00

I loved this year's Mother's Tea at the boy's school. Making it so special was that this was the one and only year that both boys attended the school together and it felt wonderful to be able to share this day with both of them. They made so many wonderful gifts...hats, cards, place mats, pot holders and hand crafted flowers. There were also special songs and a lot fun with the moms and their friends. Being Carter and Elijah's mom is the most wonderful thing in my life and a constant reminder of how truly blessed I am!!

Giggle for the Day....

2010-05-06T03:51:00.000-07:00

The boys and I were at the store yesterday picking up a few items which included some fixings for our taco feast and Carter began asking questions like, "why tacos tonight, Mom?" I quickly and efficiently explained that it was Cico de Mayo and filled him on the brief 5 year old version of what Cinco de Mayo was. Fantastic...he was thrilled with the info given and our day continued on.

Later that evening we had finished dinner and I suspect that Carter was quite full from the 4 tacos he had just consumed and he looked at me very seriously and said, "Cinco de Mayo those were some good tacos!"

Priceless!!

Party Animals

2010-04-25T12:35:00.000-07:00

Both Carter and Elijah enjoyed their birthdays in style. Each had a school party and enjoyed their special day with classmates. Carter celebrated his "5" with a big bowling party with all of his best pals and Eli had a nice family party at home. One thing is for sure with all the cake and presents, my two little boys are very lucky! Thank you to all of their friends and our family for making their days even more special!

Carter did most of the work on these cupcakes to share at school. He was very proud of them!

Oh yeah, I'm the birthday boy.

Carter and his "candles" right before singing Happy Birthday.

Daddy and his birthday boy before the big bowling party.

Bumblebee cake

The bowling party!

Watching the action.

There she is...Carter's main sqeeze.

These three have been playmates since before they could walk and they still like hanging out together!

Happy Birthday to Carter.

This is classic.

I LOVE this one!

Happy Birthday, Dear Elijah.

Eli's school party.

Eli and some of his pretty school mates.

Eli and Miss Sarah.

Eli's class. These munchkins love having their pictures taken.

Happy Birthday, Sweet Elijah

2010-04-17T03:27:00.000-07:00

Today our little Elijah is 3! My how you have grown from the tiny baby that arrived 3 weeks before your due date. You are an amazing little boy with a growing personality. You make Daddy and I smile everyday and we love you very much! Enjoy your day! xoxo

Melt My Heart

2010-04-16T15:14:00.000-07:00

My little loves picked these pretty flowers for me.

Egg Coloring and Easter

2010-04-16T06:58:00.001-07:00

We had a lovely Easter. Below are some pictures of the boys coloring eggs and then enjoying Easter complete with several egg hunts!

My little cheese working hard on some eggs.

My other little cheese!
One of Carter's masterpieces.

Eli really got into it this year.

Finished eggs for the Bunny.

He came......

......and brought chocolate.

Enjoying an egg hunt.

They sure are handsome boys!

Happy little Lansek family.

They make every single holiday better than I ever could have imagined. There is nothing like experiencing life through your children!

Happy Birthday, Dear Carter!

2010-04-10T04:10:00.000-07:00

I honestly do not know where 5 years have gone, but somehow it has happened and my baby is no longer a baby! Today Carter turns 5 and is so excited about it. How wonderful it has been to experience the joy and anticipation with Carter as he counted down the days and marked off the names of friends as he waited for his bowling party to arrive. So today we will celebrate and can't wait to do so!

Happy Birthday, Carter! You are truly a gift, wonderful in so many ways. You never cease to amaze your Dad and I and we are always very proud of you! xoxo

Littlest Lansek

2010-04-06T08:12:00.001-07:00

We just couldn't wait until the beginning of May to meet little Colin, so we left early Thursday morning for a road trip to Rhode Island! We were so happy that we made the journey, Colin is absolutely perfect and Chris and Krista are overjoyed with their little boy. The boys, especially Eli, were thrilled to meet their little cousin. It was a great time and we can't wait to see the newest little Lansek in a few weeks!

Eli meets Colin and loves him!
Uncle Brian and Colin.

Such a sweet angel.

That's a lotta Lansek!

We are going to be great friends!

Lansek Boys