The Montgomerys

Breakfast With Santa

2011-12-25T08:57:00.001-05:00

The kids attended the fabulous Breakfast with Santa at the GORGEOUS Macy's in Philadelphia. Let's just say we know people (Shout out Liz & Greg...LOVE YOU) and we were truly blessed to attend. The kids had a magical time as you can see, meeting Mrs. Claus, a ballerina, and finally Santa. It was just beautiful!!!

We hope you have a beautiful Christmas!!!!

We LOVE YOU friends and family!!!!

Love,

The Montgomerys

HAPPY FRIDAY

2011-12-16T16:53:00.000-05:00

Thankful.

2011-12-15T20:34:00.002-05:00

Thanksgiving this year was very different for us. We were invited over to our friend's house for dinner and decided to take them up on the offer...so no food shots. Bummer! We usually develop a menu months in advance and have so much fun eating the day away. The food was very delicious at our friend's house and we very much enjoyed the company but I felt uncomfortable busting out my camera and snapping photos. So we snapped a few kid photos and I'd thought I would share. Did we mention that we are Thankful for our wonderful family and lovely friends...that means you!!! Thank you for being in our lives, we love you!

Lots of love <3

Mon

Momica's Birthday

2011-12-06T11:01:00.010-05:00

Started with...chocolate covered strawberries at the hotel...

Included a lot of baby boy exploring the room...

City View...

Someone sneaking into our bed...

Swimming in the indoor pool...

That was about where a crazy man decided he hated me and wanted to yell at me while I was on my am run (I attract crazies...bummer)

Maxfield and I hung out poolside...

Hazel loves her lil' suitcase...

Cute lil' Jadey love <3

Hazel just loved that window...

Coffee Time at a great spot.

Hot Chocolate nose.

My Maxfield love <3

Jadey....

DAD....

All in All...a nice Weekend/Birthday/Adventure. Thank you Joe!!!

Love

Mon

Jade's Song

2011-11-26T20:27:00.001-05:00

Naps

2011-11-06T21:03:00.004-05:00

Upon waking from a lovely nap, he discovered his curtains were pulled open and he could see the trees outside.

Little Sleepy Head (triple shot)

Love!

The Montgomerys (mon)

Number 3

2011-10-26T21:48:00.006-04:00

Maxfield Rivers is now officially 8 months old. There is quite a lot of personality, passion, and determination packed into one teeny body. He loves playing with Daddy's PS3 (as he is in love with the cords and the plastic game containers) but is learning the meaning of "NO NO" rather quicky...I hope. He is very active, and eventhough he isn't walking yet, I find myself very tired at the end of the day. He is sleeping in his crib these days (Mommy is sad about this.....), till oh about 4:45-5:00 am, then snuggles in bed with mommy (a comprise) while he nurses. He is eating mashed up food now, instead of pureed baby food. We found that he wants in on all the food action so we let him eat what we eat, and he's happy with that. He is crawling, mostly of the army crawl type, but he is a master at the plank and has even crawled for real a few times but chickens out. He ~~tolerates~~ loves his sisters most of the time, but hey they are a lot to swallow at times...so he needs time to himself from time to time. I swear that he mimics me when I say "HAAAZEL" (which I say a thousand times a day so I'm not surprised) but most of the family thinks I'm crazy...and its official, he does say "DaDa".

We love this guy....we do. He has brought so much excitement and love to our family...thank you God for our Maxfield! He is so loving, and sweet and has the most amazing smile ever! His favorite thing is being kissed on the neck, which actually makes him melt, so I'm happy to give him thousands of neck kisses a day. He just loves his Dad, and the smile he gets when he sees him is priceless. Yes, he is very loved!! We are blessed!

Love,

MOMICA (AKA MONICA)

A day in the garden.

2011-10-24T12:28:00.006-04:00

Spending the day at Longwood Gardens was a great idea (We have a membership that is way underused!!)!!! We used it as a field trip on a Monday last week. How often do you just let kids frolic in the open, fresh air with the warm sun shining? Well to be perfectly honest, not nearly enough around here!! The kids had so much fun!!!

Have a gorgeous, lovely, and fabulous day!!!

Love,

Mon

sailboats

2011-10-15T15:43:00.004-04:00

After our apple picking excursion, we visited a nearby park/nature preserve type place. We were admiring the cutest sailboat (pictured above) then this gentlemen showed up and took it out for a ride. We snacked, chatted, and the kids walked along the dock and played with sticks in the water. It was nice....

Our friends, the Goods, they are very cool! We like them...a lot!

This is Ellie, she is very cute!!! She is the Goods' youngest child! She kind of reminds me of Sal, from Blueberries for Sal. Very sweet!!! <3

Hazel and her friend Benjamin!

Have a beautiful weekend!!

Enjoy some sunshine and spend time with those you love!!

Love

Mon (of the Montgomerys) :)

Apple Pickin'

2011-10-13T14:18:00.000-04:00

We smacked two quintessentially Fall activities into two days...getting our pumpkin, and picking apples!!! It was a fun filled (warm, as I previously mentioned) couple of days doing Fall-ish activities. This year, we had the pleasure of apple picking with friends from church....so fun!!

Now to figure out what to do with all these apples! So far we have apple butter made, and a pie...still so many apples left. We'll see what we come up with!!!

Love,

The Montgomerys :)

the perfect pumpkin.

2011-10-12T16:08:00.007-04:00

Each year we set out to the pumpkin patch to pick out our perfect pumpkin. We have a local patch that we've been going to since we've lived in this area and we love it!! This year, we took a hay ride to the patch and managed to find our pumpkin! We picked out three little bitty ones too, one for each kid. We've been a bit deprived as far as family time goes, so soaking in the precious moments together was lovely. It was a bit too warm for my liking, at nearly 85 degrees (in OCTOBER....hmmffff), but it was ~~HOT~~ lovely nonetheless!

The bumpy hay ride must have lulled little man to sleep!

A few shots of our precious "middle" kid.

Pumpkin thuggin'.

A family shot.

We hope you all find that perfect pumpkin as well!!

Happy Fall

Hello Lovie.

2011-10-11T13:45:00.000-04:00

I'm totally in LOVE.

Love,

MOM

Castles

2011-10-07T11:22:00.004-04:00

Since we had been studying castles in school, we thought we would try our best to visit one!! Hazel had picked a book out on castles at the library and we've been studying it and she was completely amazed with them. So after some research, we located a castle playground and another castle nearby which was the former residence of Henry Mercer. We had a lot of fun, and we snapped a few photos of our field trip adventure!!!!

The Castle Park.

We met a lovely British gentleman with a gorgeous Lab pup, he was so nice! He was quintessentially British, and was wearing a polo shirt with the words "Got Wine???" on it! He was cute!

The Mercer Castle.

We had such a great day, exploring castles! We hope you all have a great Friday, and an excellent weekend! Lot of love!!!!!!!!

Oh, and our Hymn study for the week is Amazing Grace! Each week we read a hymn, listen to it and discuss. It has been lots of fun! So, this week we listened to this little girl singing our weekly Hymn (we also listened to Elvis sing it too...it was ahhhmazing as well). This version was so moving...Hazel just loved it!!! So, listen and enjoy!

Love,

The Montgomerys

Field Trips.

2011-09-24T16:32:00.003-04:00

We spent the afternoon having lunch at a nature preserve last week. We ate our lunch, read poetry and literature and explored. We learned about birds and such and had a wonderful time!!!

(these funny expressions are cracking me up)

Hazel was completely in her element.

Hazel takes posing with flowers very seriously.

Have a beautiful weekend!!!

Love,

Monica

Peaches

2011-09-11T10:47:00.004-04:00

Awhile back (some time in mid August), we had a rare free afternoon and decided to go fruit picking! We picked peaches, a few early apples, and some berries. The girls had so much fun, they always love these types of outings. The peaches were very delicious! The peaches (Joe's fav) were used for a special birthday cake, and for yummy snacking!!!

Hope everyone is well and having a wonderful Sunday!

God Bless!

Mon <3

6 Months

2011-09-06T01:13:00.002-04:00

At his recent 6 month checkup, Maxfield attacked the paper lining the table so much that the nurse had to replace it. Oh, and he tried to eat it too!!! He grabs my face so hard sometimes, that it actually does hurt. Yes, I am learning the difference between boys and girls, yes indeed. Even though he is a tough lil' guy, he is sweet, playful, loving, and very easy going. He is a total flirt, and loves the ladies...all ladies! He sleeps and eats like a champ and is just an all around great little baby! He had a rough spot for a few weeks, when he had his two lower teeth coming in at once but has resumed his easy going nature! He loves to eat and is eating all sorts of yummy vegetables. We are so blessed to have him! I think we'll keep him!!!!!!

Love,

Mon

Jack

2011-09-03T23:36:00.002-04:00

Happy 1st Birthday Sweet Jackson!!!

The girls just loved having Jackson over this summer. He really is a very sweet, and kind little guy. These pictures where taken in early summer when Jackson, his mommy (my sissy), and daddy came to visit PA for a few days. It was a delightful visit complete with Starbucks time, family time, history time (thanks to Valley Forge), and we just loved it! We MISS them so much, and were sad to have missed his very first birthday due to the fact that we live on the other side of the country...bummer. So we are sending sweet Jackson tons of birthday love (be on the lookout for a bday package, if auntie gets her act together)!!! We love ya little guy!!!

Love,

The Montgomerys <3

Our Son...

2011-08-31T21:35:00.001-04:00

Has the most perfect pouty lips ever. I just love it <3

I have like a dozen blogs I need to write. I will soon. Love you so much friends and family <3

Monica

Cutest camping picture ever.

2011-08-12T11:07:00.003-04:00

Hazel Rei, Maxfield Rivers, and Jade Anise

As this summer is drawing to a close, I am recollecting over our summer activities and CAMPING has been on the top of our list as the most fun thing we did. WE had a blast!!! I will post more pics, but I came across this one photo and it made me so stinking happy that I just had to post it. This was Maxfield's first camping experience, and he did amazing!!! More pics to come but now I must go as the gym is calling (or rather screaming) my name!!!

Much love, and have a blessed Friday!!!

Love

Mon

Cereal.

2011-08-12T00:15:00.005-04:00

He's eating it now. And squash too. More photos to come!!!

And Jade is helping Momma feed him.

Wanting more...keep it coming!!!!!

Love,

The Montgomerys <3

breakfast

2011-07-29T11:39:00.000-04:00

Going out for breakfast is my absolute favorite. EVER. Especially the unexpected kind. When you get a call...asking you...if you want to go to breakfast! So you just thrown on something and head out for yummmmieeeness. Such was the case last week....

Love,

Mon

Horseback Riding.

2011-07-23T16:23:00.005-04:00

This summer has been going well. Among the many fun things we have done (more blogs to come), Grandma Ney Ney came over!! Not only was that a blast, but she took Hazel horseback riding!!! Not riding-a-pony-around-in-a-circle-for-a-minute type riding, but REAL HORSEBACK riding! Grandma had wanted both girls to ride, however jade was not up for it at all!! Hazel got a chance to prepare the horse for the ride by putting the bridle and saddle on. She was so excited! Since I was preoccupied with Maxfield, Grandma was so kind to take all these photos!

Jade, watching from the sideline.

So did Baby Maxfield!

After the ride, Hazel and the trainer went back to the barn to brush the horse, and remove her saddle, etc.

Jade even got a chance to help brush!

I think Jade warmed up to the horses, and just might be up for riding next time!

Hazel is already asking when she can have another lesson...she loved it!!

Hoping you all have a fabulous weekend!

Lots of Love,

Montgomerys

2011-07-13T17:07:00.002-04:00

Auntie Ro's backyard is the best. Even though it was so very hot out, the girls still managed to brave the heat and spend some time outside. Blowing bubbles and enjoying being with Auntie Ro Ro and Grandpa! I thought I'd share some beauty on this lovely Wednesday, because I just adore my lil' lovelies!

This photo is classic Jade, she is very intense!

Lots and Lots of love!

Mon

Moments.

2011-07-04T12:22:00.003-04:00

I was downloading photos while here in Kansas, and came across some photos from a recent trip to the park with family while in PA. They made me happy!!!

Love,

Mon <3

Travels.

2011-07-03T17:41:00.001-04:00

Currently in Kansas! Have a beautiful time!!!!

Love,

Mon

baseball.

2011-06-23T11:29:00.001-04:00

With Joe's busy season at work in full effect, family adventures have been few and far between. However, one evening we received the opportunity to go to a baseball game. Not only was it a baseball game, but it was a game in style. We watched it from a suite, complete with delicious food, air conditioning (as it was quite warm), the kids had cotton candy, desserts, a visit from the team mascot, and yes a ball actually landed in the suite!!!! We are so thankful for this opportunity given to us by a dear friend, and the memories that were made, and yes the time spent all together. It was nice :)

Love,

The Montgomerys

2011-06-20T09:02:00.001-04:00

Bugsy

2011-06-14T17:46:00.000-04:00

What BIG eyes you have!!!!!!!!!!

I simply adore you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Love,

mommy <3

Kozue San

2011-06-13T12:08:00.006-04:00

We made it out to NYC to visit our dear sweet friend Kozue! She was visiting from Japan and we were able to spend a lovely afternoon with her!

We walked to the future Twin Tower Memorial site...

The girls with the lovely umbrella that Kozue gave them, which they adore!!! <3

This is a spot where you can overlook where the twin towers were, and see the construction that is going on.

Jade droppin' it like its hot.

Taxi riding.

This is where we found out we couldn't eat at Spice Market...due to a 3 hour wait...boo.

An example of why I LOVE NYC.

She is so cute!!!

A lovely dinner in the West Village <3

We miss you Kozue!!!

The Montgomerys

Well Hello There.

2011-06-09T23:12:00.000-04:00

We have a new nifty little video mechanism...so we thought we would say hello!!!

Many more to come.

Promise.

Mon

Sweet LOVELY.

2011-06-05T16:42:00.002-04:00

He really is an angelic little boy. I'm so happy to have him in my arms and absolutely love giving him sweet little kisses.

Hello! I have officially downloaded nearly 600 photos and will be posting again.

Lot and Lots of love!

Monica <3

Fishing

2011-05-27T13:47:00.000-04:00

Much Love <3

Mother's Day.

2011-05-23T23:01:00.001-04:00

I know. It was like ages ago. I wanted to share because it was a very special Mother's day for me because I actually got to spend it with my mom. Joe made us a lovely brunch after church which made us moms feel super special.

My Momma.

The Family <3

My kids <3

Hope you all had a beautiful Mother's day as well!

Lots and Lots of LOVE!!!

The Montgomerys

Fair

2011-05-20T21:09:00.000-04:00

Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Fair

2011-05-20T21:08:00.000-04:00

Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Dedication

2011-05-18T12:58:00.002-04:00

The kids were dedicated at our church recently. It was very sweet!!! Thought we would share some photos!!!

Lots of Love <3

The Montgomerys.

She's kind of in love...just a little

2011-05-03T17:02:00.002-04:00

Hazel Rei began her requests for us to have a baby much like most children do, however she took it to a new level. You see, she prayed specifically for a baby brother every night before bed. She would talk about this baby brother from time to time, beginning sentences with "when I get my baby brother"...to which I would say, "How do you know you will get a baby brother Hazel?" (since Joe and I were pretty convinced we were done having children) and she would reply, "...well I PRAYED!!!!" So when we found out that we were having a baby, she was convinced it would be a boy!!! I would talk to her about what a blessing a baby was and we would be happy with either a boy or a girl. She was still convinced that God would listen to her prayers and give her a baby brother. So when ultrasound day came and we discovered it was indeed a boy tears immediately ran down my face as I learned such a huge lesson on the power of prayer!!! God had answered Hazel's prayers!!! Hazel is a little obsessed with Maxfield and often kisses him and wakes him up, and yes she has been discovered walking around the house holding him once (insert heart attack here), however Maxfield is extremely lucky to have such an awesome big sister!!!

Love,

The Montgomerys

April 29th.

2011-04-29T03:34:00.001-04:00

Five years ago, I was up late...way late much like I am right now. I was 39 weeks pregnant with our first child and had a general feeling of discomfort all night accompanied with varying degrees of contractions. When morning finally arrived I decided to call my OBGYN and ask what I should do. When she said to stop by the hospital to get checked out, we thought we would just stop by and then continue on with our Anniversary. Yes, it was our 3rd anniversary! We thought the hospital was merely a pit stop before, we would have breakfast at our favorite little French Bistro in Dana Point, Ca. Well, we never got to have breakfast that day, in fact nearly twelve hours later we got a baby! Hazel Rei Montgomery was born on April 29th, 2006. We were so shocked by her early arrival but so happy and relieved to meet our first child and share our anniversary. The funny thing is that as newlyweds we thought three years was an appropriate time to wait to have children...and that is exactly to the day how long we waited...pretty amazing. Hazel, Joe and myself have a very special bond, we share a very special day! So we wish our very special Hazel Rei a most beautiful day and are so blessed to have her in our lives. She is a extra special blessing from the LORD. She is extraordinary indeed!!!!

8 weeks...

2011-04-28T00:10:00.002-04:00

and totally awesome!!!!

Love,

The Montgomerys

Easter

2011-04-27T08:47:00.008-04:00

Sunrise Service at Valley Forge Park.

Easter was gorgeous, warm and sunny...it was perfect. An awesome day to celebrate the Resurrection! We spent the day together, first with church, then baskets and hunting for eggs, and with brunch! It was a lovely day. Easter happens to be my most favorite of holidays. It is beautiful, and means so much to recollect on how much Christ did for us, and how HE has RISEN. It is quite beautiful! Plus, when you add peeps and little girls in pretty dresses and sunshine <3 We hope you all had a beautiful Easter as well!!!!

Love,

The Montgomerys

Maxfield Rivers at 5 & 6 weeks!!!!!!!!!!

2011-04-13T14:18:00.003-04:00

Maxfield at 5 weeks!!!!

And even cuter at 6 weeks!!!

It was very warm the other day so I busted out the $1 tank top we bought Maxfield at H&M. It reads

MUM +DAD =ME.

Love,

The Montgomerys

Hazel/Jade fix

2011-04-04T13:57:00.001-04:00

Just when you thought this was the Maxfield channel I thought I would give you all a nice dose of Hazel/Jade! Most days I'm just making it, so the camera is very low on my priority list! I'm happy to have taken a few photos of my little beauties! They are just so lovely!

Love,

The Montgomerys <3

The Cool Grandpa

2011-04-03T17:02:00.003-04:00

Some Grandpas are cool. However, Hazel, Jade, and Maxfield really do have a COOL Grandpa. I mean, he rides a Harley, wears a cool leather jacket and motorcycle boots!! He really is cool, but is also a fun and loving Grandfather! This past week we had a blast with cool Grandpa Rick. His love for his kids, and now our kids is just amazing. He and I enjoyed eating out, having coffee, and laughing at how crazy the kids are. It was just an all around great visit! We miss him so much!!!!!!!!!!

I like this one too, with Maxfield's tongue out!!

Love,

The Montgomerys

One Month later....

2011-03-31T22:00:00.000-04:00

Mr. Maxfield Rivers Montgomery is now four weeks old! We just took him in for his one month well baby visit and were excited (and shocked) to discover that he gained two whole pounds in two weeks. I had been taking him to the Dr to get weighed since he lost a bit more than they'd like after birth. Anyhow, he is happy & healthy and adored by his mom, dad, and sisters.

Much love,

The Montgomerys

3 weeks old.

2011-03-21T12:09:00.000-04:00

Loves to Chill :)

And much to my surprise, loves the bath as well :)

Love,

The Montgomerys

St. Patrick's Day!!!!

2011-03-19T23:05:00.005-04:00

St. Patrick's Day was Maxfield's original due date and we were both looking forward to him being born on that day. But alas, he was not...he was born 2 1/2 weeks earlier, much to our surprise! St. Patrick's day turned out to be a beautiful day here in Pa. It was on the warmer side, and bright and sunny! We decided to spend the day outdoors at Longwood Gardens. The girls had so much fun, and Maxfield did so well on his first trip outdoors. Hope you enjoy the many pictures we managed to capture of the girls!

After our adventure, we had a lovely meal of corned beef, cabbage & carrots, roasted potatoes, and Irish Soda bread (all made with lots of love by our Chef). Along with some lovely green milk for the ladies ;)

We hope you all had a lovely St. Patrick's Day!

Lots of love,

The Montgomerys

Cute little pookie face.

2011-03-11T19:11:00.002-05:00

Maxfield with the cutest little H&M outfit!

Cannot wait to get out and take him on all of our adventures, especially now that Spring is coming!!!! For now we hang out at home.

Have a most fabulous weekend!!!

Love,

mon

Little Miss Thang.

2011-03-08T06:20:00.003-05:00

A day before we had Maxfield we went to Longwood Gardens with Joe's Mom. She had been at our house all week helping me get ready for the baby and taking care of the girls for me. She has been an absolute blessing! So we decided that since Joe had the day off and we had been at home the whole time we would have a little field trip! We definitely had so much fun! I haven't taken many pictures of the girls on account of feeling pretty bad before I had the baby. Apparently Hazel is all about the poses! I thought I must share!!

Even little Jade got into the posing!

shot 1. I told her to open her eyes.

shot 2.

And one last party of four photo. Don't I look like a person who needed to have a baby ASAP????????. All day I felt like a house...I don't know what I could of done going on like this for 2 1/2 more weeks!

and one shot of Joe + Monica

Love,

Mon

1 Week.

2011-03-06T16:56:00.001-05:00

We have known Maxfield for a week now, and we just continue to fall more and more in love with him. He is such a blessing. We know that he absolutely hates diaper changes, loves to sleep nestled comfortably on Daddy's chest, doesn't mind a million kisses from two very proud and excited sisters, and loves his momma too! He is nursing quite regularly, every three hours, and I am hoping that he sleeps longer during the pm/early am hours but I am content with the early morning bonding hours with Maxfield. Daddy is returning to work tomorrow so you prayers are greatly appreciated because I am hoping I can manage all three children and make it through the day. I know I will...with God's help :)

Love,

Monica <3

The Kids.

2011-03-04T22:39:00.000-05:00

Today I needed to rest, so I lay on my bed praying and reflecting on the last six days. They have been a very interesting set of days. We have grown as a family, we have spent the week soaking everything in and thanking God for His blessings. So as I lay on my bed I began to cry. I was crying not from pain or from sadness but from a deep gratitude to the Lord for what he has done in my life. Maxfield's birthday was a new beginning for me; a time where God has restored what I had felt was lost, or broken. God is so faithful, so loving, and so kind. So I lay on my bed in tears, thanking Him for what I felt like I did not deserve, thanking Him for sweet blessings in my life. As I was in labor, I was reading verses from the Bible, truth be told I was a little nervous and I just wanted to get things straight in my heart before we welcomed our beautiful son into the world. I set out to read the Psalms, and God gave me a great scripture;

"You will show me the path of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore."

Psalm 16:11

Just thought I would share ;) Oh, and for those interested, don't worry....little Maxfield hasn't taken away from photos of the girls, I plan to post, and post, and post!

Love,

Mon

Maxfield's first days.

2011-03-03T22:23:00.000-05:00

Maxfield's first days have been spent at home with Mommy, Daddy, Hazel, and Jade. We have enjoyed these last few days getting to know the little guy. He is mostly asleep but as you can see in the picture above, we did catch a glimpse of his eyes being open!!! He is a great baby with a sweet and feisty disposition. He hates to be changed, and will scream the entire time...a very "manly" high pitch scream. It is a bit stressful for me, since I am new to changing boy diapers, add in learning to wrap up cloth diapers, and I can definitely feel the pressure. Hazel loves to sing to Maxfield, and Jade just loves giving him the sweetest kisses. Daddy loves to cuddle with Maxfield and I believe the feeling is mutual. We are having a great time at home with our newest little Montgomery!!!

Love,

Mon <3

Maxfield has arrived!

2011-02-28T11:40:00.000-05:00

The culmination of nine plus months of growing, waiting, loving, sickness, sleeplessness, crying, planning, praying, has all come to and end. Baby Maxfield was born on February 27 at 12:04, weighing in at 7 lbs. 3 oz. and 20.5 inches long. He was two and a half weeks early, which was good because Monica would have broken in half!

The girls were extremely happy to meet their little brother! We praise God for delivering him safely and healthy! Thank you to everyone for their prayers and love and support!

Puppy Pigtails

2011-02-18T12:44:00.001-05:00

Happy Friday!
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Cuteness

2011-02-15T11:09:00.004-05:00

Sometimes the sheer adorableness of having two precious little girls is overwhelming! As I was browsing through my pics I found this one of Jade. I love the little flying pigtail. Happy Tuesday lovelies!
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Happy Valentine's Day!!

2011-02-14T22:43:00.003-05:00

We were totally spoiled this Valentine's Day! Daddy came home with three roses the night before and made us girls feel extra special. I got up and started to make breakfast for us, since Daddy was only ours for about an hour before he had to head out to work. Daddy surprised the girls with gifts, and even gifted me with my very own Valentine's pillow pet. We had a beautiful morning! We hope you all had a glorious day as well!

Happy Valentine's Day!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

<3 <3 <3

Getting out!

2011-02-14T01:09:00.000-05:00

The weather was in the 40's today, so it was warm!! The girls begged me to go out! So I waddled down the driveway and we walked up and down our street for a bit. It was nice to be out! The girls loved it and had so much fun!
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Mommy has issues.

2011-02-10T16:56:00.003-05:00

Let's just say, mommy is having issues during this last month of pregnancy. The last month, that just started. The last month that promises to be challenging. The last month before our little Leprechaun (aka new baby brother!!) arrives. Since mommy has been put on "rest" we have been spending all day at home. Luckily my girls are most happy at home, doing artwork, playing with Barbies, and watching princess movies.

They were best friends yesterday. It lasted a good portion of the the day. They dressed up in fancy outfits and as an extra special treat, they got to watch a movie on mommy & daddy's bed.

Love,

Mon

A message for Daddy...

2011-02-08T20:08:00.000-05:00

A glimpse...

2011-02-02T11:26:00.004-05:00

There are certain times when you get a glimpse into the character of your child. Sometimes its good, sometimes you are like "yikes" and identify areas you need to work on with them. Other times you see something in them that is truly innate, something that God has so lovingly gifted them with. Such was the case yesterday, with our 4 year old, Hazel Rei.

We were on our weekly grocery store visit which is usually a family bonding experience. Perhaps it is due to Daddy's profession but we generally enjoy planning, shopping, and preparing our meals. So, we were shopping and Joe and I were discussing which ricotta cheese to purchase as the girls were parked nearby in the shopping cart. I noticed a gentleman in a wheel chair pass by, and as he did we heard Hazel Rei say "Are you feeling better?" Her question was naturally expressed and came from general concern without hesitation or reservations. Joe and I just stood there speechless, waiting for his response. The man kindly expressed, "Oh I'm fine, thanks for asking!" As I turned to look at Hazel, I saw a sense of relief come over her face as if she was really concerned for the man.

This simple little exchange touched my heart so much. Why? Maybe its the 8 1/2 month pregnancy hormones...maybe its just because this is something I really admire and love about my Hazel. Its her caring heart! She's not afraid or intimidated from encouraging people or showing that she cares. It was sweet! She is sweet. It comes from the same place in her heart when she catches a glimpse of those ASPCA commercials and wants to adopt all the neglected and abused animals and is left in tears as she gazes upon the sad puppy faces. God has gifted this child with a kind, sweet, and caring spirit and I was just in awe of how truly amazing His gifts are. I wanted to write it down, so I would never forget this simple yet profound glimpse into who Hazel is!

Love,

Mon

Future Gymnast???

2011-01-21T20:20:00.000-05:00

Happy Friday!

Fireside Breakfast

2011-01-19T19:48:00.002-05:00

They love their little red table. I use it mostly for breakfast or lunch, and then we eat dinner at the main table. They also like to color and create beautiful masterpieces on their little red table. Sometimes I overhear them saying things like, "So, how was your day?" to each other...at breakfast!

Yesterday was a very cold morning. It had snowed and freezing rain was falling as the girls woke up and wanted breakfast. I had started a fire and Hazel requested that they eat fireside. They bundled themselves up in blankies and I made them some warm vanilla milk (milk, vanilla, a little sugar) and they enjoyed a warm cozy breakfast together. It was a beautiful morning with my beautiful little ladies. I am treasuring these moments with just them!

Love,

Monica <3

American Girl

2011-01-16T22:05:00.001-05:00

Jade just felt as special as can be on her 3rd Birthday!!! One of her final gifts was super special. Abuelita (from California) sent her a very special package. Jadey is now the proud parent of her own bitty baby American Girl doll!!! She has yet to officially name her but is in love with her. Thank you so much abuelita!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We love you <3

Jade + baby have the same outfit!!!! So cute :)

Love,

Mon

thankful.

2011-01-11T22:02:00.001-05:00

There are many reason why I am so thankful to God. Many indeed. His love is amazing. The most pressing upon my heart at this exact moment is thankfulness for my family .

Love,

Mon

Party at Chuck's.

2011-01-10T17:52:00.004-05:00

Jade had a birthday party at Chuck E. Cheese the other day. There were four people in attendance. Mom. Dad. Hazel. Jade. Her birthday flew under the radar for the most part. Loved ones called, txtd, and messaged us and wished her a happy bday so that is all that counts! It was as if we rented out the whole Chuck E. Cheese, just for us, mostly because it was on a weekday. The most important thing of all was that we had fun....a lot of fun! We had a blast to be exact and Jade felt so super special with her cake, her present, and most of all with her family!

Dad had a lot of fun too!!!

Love,

Mon <3

Snow

2011-01-09T20:32:00.005-05:00

I hadn't seen real snow until a couple of years ago so each and every time it snows I get excited. I tell you there is something so beautiful about falling snow or waking up in the morning to snow covering everything. While I do think my girls are California girls at heart (since they cry because it's sooooo cold), they do enjoy playing in the snow. Up until they get too cold and want to go inside. In this case it's mostly Jade saying "I no like NOOOO (snow)!"

We hope you are all enjoying Winter!!! I sometimes wish I was in sunny So Cal but actually enjoy the coziness and warmth that winter brings. A nice fire, cozy sweaters, cute boots, scarves handmade by dear loved ones (<3!!!!!!), and warm tea in my mug! These are things I love and so I have learned to be thankful in all seasons, even when it is cold!!!!!!!!!!!

MON

Cousins

2011-01-07T12:37:00.003-05:00

Cousins are great! The girls just love their cousins. They loved getting to meet baby Jackson while in California! We also got a chance to hang out with Elliott and Caiden as well! Such a sweet time! We wished we all lived closer!

Time with cousins at the beach!

Elliott, Hazel, Caiden, and Jade <3

MON

akachan

2011-01-03T21:49:00.006-05:00

Akachan-red baby (Japanese)

Jade was very red when she was born. Her skin tone was so very different than that of her sisters. She continued to shock us as we got to know her. We were stunned because she really didn't cry upon being born. She whimpered, and we knew she was healthy but she came into the world in a very peaceful way. I remember seeing her face and her double chin as they laid her on my stomach. She was very sweet and needed constant attention! She slept that first night, pretty much the entire night. As we have seen her grow the last three years, we thank God so much for her presence in our family. She is a little fireball of emotion, strong in her opinions, a tad bit gruff at times, but the sweetest little cuddle bug you will ever meet.

Happy birthday akachan...We love you so very much!

Love,

Mom & Dad

Little People

2010-12-20T10:57:00.001-05:00

The first Christmas present! The little people nativity! The girls had so much fun playing with it last night.
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Lovely time of year...

2010-12-17T16:20:00.003-05:00

The Christmas season has been lovely....busy...but lovely, lovely, lovely indeed.

The girls were excited to ge to go to Breakfast with Santa, thanks to lovely friends! It was the perfect way to start the Christmas season!

We finally had our annual Christmas tree decorating night!

Cookies and Cocoa!

Although, we will be missing family and friends desperately this Christmas, we are looking forward to a peaceful & simple Christmas at home. We send you all of our love! God Bless you all!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!

Love,

The Montgomerys

This Morning...

2010-12-11T22:00:00.000-05:00

Santa came to our town! Just for a little visit! The girls were of course super DUPER excited!

We also got to buy the best donuts in the whole world! They are made by the fire company and are oh so delicious!

Merry Christmas!

Love,

MON <3

Good Morning & Happy Friday!

2010-12-03T10:21:00.001-05:00

I was excited to wake up Hazel (who is more like waking up a teenager than a 4 year old) to Oatmeal! Oatmeal happens to be her most favorite thing to eat in the morning. I don't always make it because I guess boiling water and placing oats in the pan is too much work for little old me...but today was different. I just purchased some new oats and was ready to go. So I woke up Miss Hazel Rei with the exciting news!

Sadly, she was not all that happy this morning and made it known that she was pretty grouchy!

You see the thing about Hazel...she hates being woken up. When she wakes up leisurely on her own, she is fabulous and bubbly...but wake her up before she desires to and watch out.

Jade was happy though! You see the thing about Jade...she goes to bed without a tear, without whining, usually happy as can be...and regardless of when she wakes...she is just as happy.

Oh, the beautiful differences!

God Bless you sweet friends and family today!

Mon

For Momma

2010-11-28T22:53:00.000-05:00

Well that would be abuelita to Hazel and Jade, but momma to me! You see, my mom is amazing. She is kind, sweet, loving, and generous (just to name a few of her great attributes). She is always thinking of the girls and they just love her so much (as do I). Did I mention she is fabulous, talented, and creative???? Well she is! She knitted the girls little hats for the winter time and made flowers out of felt to sew on them. I suggested adding a button to the flowers (because I am a button fanatic), and so she did. While we were in California Hazel caught wind of the project and decided that she wanted a larger gold button with a faux pearl in the middle. My mom and I tried to talk her out of it, because it was, well, just a little much. Hazel insisted on the gaudy button, and just like always...abuelita let her have it her way!

*So here are the pics of the girls and their hats momma...I just love you to pieces and miss you so very much!!*

A couple of pics that are a bit blurry but oh so cute.

Love,

Mon

Thanksgiving

2010-11-27T21:52:00.001-05:00

Thanksgiving was delightful. Delicious. Lovely. Warm. Cozy. Simple.

We spent a quiet day at home and a couple of friends joined us. I should first start out by saying that I am very blessed to have a husband like Joe. Well, since he is a chef and all, and Thanksgiving is all about food, we get kind of hooked up. We decided to buy a farm fresh, free-range turkey straight from a local farm, and used simple and wholesome ingredients, throw in a fabulous chef...and you have a recipe for deliciousness. This year, I helped by baking some mini apples pies in mason jars, mini pumpkin whoopie pies, and rolls. We had a fabuous Thanksgiving, and hope that everyone out there had a lovely day as well!

Love and God Bless You!!!!!!!!

Our day at the Museum.

2010-11-18T09:25:00.000-05:00

Was wonderful!

Love,

Mon

Impromptu Photo Shoots are THE best.

2010-11-17T21:37:00.003-05:00

It happens from time to time. When either Joe or I are taking photos, a nice person will offer to take a family shot. They usually have no idea how to work the camera, and bless their hearts...someone usually has their eyes closed or a head turned in the opposite direction. In those cases you are just happy that they offered and thank them because family photos are rare.

This Sunday we spent an immensely enjoyable afternoon at a Museum. Our kids loved it. We learned stuff. We admired some awesome art. We had a nice little bite to eat at the cafe. It was bliss. We made our way outdoors and while Joe was snapping a photo of me and the girls, this enthusiastic woman came out of nowhere and offered to take a family photo. Only this offer was a bit different than most times. She grabbed our camera and quickly began what was the most bizarre photo shoot ever. She took one of me, asked me to move my shoulders slightly to the right, lift my chin, and stand a bit farther back! She moved back, and forth, crouched to the left, moved the camera to the right then the left, moved us around so that she could ge the best light. She wanted to take one with Joe and myself, one of us with just Jade, then with Hazel, then with just Joe. It was intriguing. So here are the photos she took. My poor husband looks a bit frightened and is laughing through the fear. Yes, these things only happen to us. Bless her heart, she was eccentric, kind, and nice which is rare in most people these days!

Love,

Mon <3

Punkin carvin'

2010-11-10T11:06:00.000-05:00

A lil family tradition we do...or at least as close to tradition our non traditional family can call one...
Every year we select some gourds and go at it...
We had stencils but I always prefer going freehand... This is Dad instructing the young punkin padawan in the punkin craft...

These are the eyes.....

The nose....

The mouth and we are ready to carve...

Ewwwww.... Mom's disemboweling our Jack!

Hazel's showing Jadey how its done.

Hazel wanted hers to have a girl face, of course!

Jade enters the action to start cleaning up Dad's punkin....

We were drinking hot cocoa, compliments Big Momma mountain, and gettin our punkin on!

Thi is Hazel's and Mommy's punkin...

This is Daddy's and Jade's punkin'....

Happy Post Halloween!

The Pumpkin Patch: Montgomery style.

2010-11-08T09:20:00.011-05:00

We wanted to get the girls pumpkins but had not made it over to one of the various local farms offering the "pumpkin patch experience" with wagon rides due to Joe's busy schedule. I had driven by a few farms during the weekends and was astonished by the hundreds of people there and vowed to not be one of the masses fighting for the perfect pumpkin. In my mind: It was just not worth it...eeewww I hate crowds. Last year we had found a small farm near our home and decided to check it out one Monday evening. We noticed it had closed and began to pull out of the driveway when we saw the farmer walking towards our car. He offered to open up the pumpkin shed for us! This farmer is so cool. He is like an original cowboy and just loves to chat about the farm and life. We hung out with him for about a half hour or so as the girls played around the pumpkins, and heard the stories of the weekends with the bratty kids that made their way through the farm, he complained of how the John Deere parts for his farm equipment where made in China, and how that really angered him. I told him how I dream of having chickens and a family cow someday, and he thought I was insane. He spoke of how deer have totally overrun the farm, and how expensive his medical insurance was as he paid out of pocket. We had a great time just shooting the breeze! He is just a really cool guy! So we had our own little pumpkin patch experience, alone, chatting with the farmer. It wasn't with the masses, posing for photos of kids on wagons...it was simple, chill, and so us.

Oh, and we did manage to go back to the same farm for an evening hay ride the Friday before Halloween. No photos. It was so fun, with the wide open sky lit with bright stars. We rode with a troop of girl scouts in the back of a tractor, amidst hay and it was just amazing. Chilly and brisk on an amazing autumn evening riding through the pumpkin patch and farm, through the woods with carved pumpkins lit along the way. The girls just had so much fun. Wonderful moments, really! Not to be cheesy, but it was beautiful!

Love,

Mon

Leaves.

2010-11-07T21:38:00.003-05:00

I have about a thousand blogs to write. What can I say? I took the month off. With work, the girls, growing a baby boy, and life...I've been a bit swamped. Well, we have actually been bombarded with leaves as well!!!!!!!!!!!! I think there are about a million leaves that have fallen from the huge trees outside the house. We spent some time raking some up, and playing in them. It was very, very fun!!!!!!!!!!

For those interested: There will be more blogs to come (including California photos).

LOVE,

Mon

2010-10-17T23:48:00.001-04:00

While in California, one of my oldest and most dear friend, Joanne, was playing around with my "little" camera (in comparision to her nice, big, cool pro camera) and snapped a few photos. I thought I would share a few because they are of my lovely Jade.

I still have so many other things to share, so there will be a dozen more California posts.

Love,

Mon

Memories of California

2010-10-15T19:10:00.001-04:00

We have been home for a little over a week and I am now just downloading the nearly 1,000 photos I took. One of the early memories of our trip was Hazel and Jade making freshly squeezed orange juice with oranges from Abuelitas tree.

More photos to come!

Lots of Love!

God Bless <3

Mon

OCD?

2010-10-11T16:45:00.002-04:00

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Princesses

2010-10-01T14:00:00.001-04:00

Tired after a long & fun day at Disneyland!
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2010-09-29T03:12:00.002-04:00

We are having so much fun here in California. I am already bracing myself for the inevitable heartbreak that occurs when we leave but we are enjoying every second we have with our sweet family. Hazel has been beyond excited about being in California with Abuelita and her aunties, and baby cousin Jackson. Tonight she got to sleep with Abuelita in her bed, and was so very happy!

Love,
Mon

California Bound!

2010-09-22T08:24:00.000-04:00

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Apple Picking

2010-09-20T19:59:00.008-04:00

I <3 Fall! I love everything about it. I love saying goodbye to a long, hot, humidity ridden summer. I love the cool, crisp air. I love seeing leaves fall outside my window in all shades of autumn...reds, yellows, oranges, and browns. I love pumpkins and having apple cider at home while a nice, warm fire burns in our fireplace. I love sweaters and knitting scarves for all the people I love. Seasons are quite lovely...they bring a sense of newness, and usher in a time of change, and I love it! I love traditions; it makes me feel like a legit family! There is something about the start of Fall, and the traditions that we have come to know...such as apple picking. So this past week we started off Fall with the Montgomery tradition of apple pickin'!!

We are blessed to live in an area that is smack in the middle of great farms. Joe had located an orchard that is located near our home with tons of different kinds of apples. It was a great time, and a perfect excuse for Hazel’s first “field trip” as a homeschooler!

Hazel was overjoyed to discover a ladybug in the apple she picked.

Hazel and some after-picking treats! Double fisting an ice-cream cone and a homemade apple cider donut!

Jade's funny face! Ahahahaha :)

Our beauties :)

Here is a picture that Hazel snapped!

Happy to get out there and make some awesome memories!

Love,

MON <3

"reading"

2010-09-20T16:20:00.002-04:00

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