The Donald's

Some Water Fun, Finally!

2011-09-02T13:03:00.002-04:00

Someone FINALLY warmed up to the exploration of water at the splash pad!:)

We had a blast together today!

My Beautiful Children

2011-08-29T09:55:00.000-04:00

I just love them so!

A FUNTASTIC DAY

2011-08-17T12:57:00.004-04:00

The kids and I went to Woodhaven today to have a play date with two friends of mine from work and their kids. First we went to this cool place called, "Funtastic." This huge play area never looks the same because the kids are able to rearrange all the furniture, and they love doing so.

Annabelle, Aliyah and Kylie, having a blast together.
She followed them around the whole time and did whatever they did.Then we went to Stevie B's for lunch and played games.

The candy claw was a huge hit for all.Michael told Aliyah to put the money in and he would get he some candy too.

Hoop Stars, Annabelle and Michael.

Michael's favorite game.
He did pretty well with a wicked side arm.Sweet Kylie got everyone matching bracelets with all her earned tickets.

Good friends and good times make for a good day!

My Kids' First Circus

2011-08-16T18:38:00.001-04:00

We were going to sit here...

but daddy went to go get his big umbrella so
we could sit here with shade. What a smart daddy.

Cracker Jacks, Animals, Sno Cones, Clowns, peanuts and amazing acts of talent all included.
A fun time was had by all.

Our First Visit To Turtle Cove

2011-08-15T14:17:00.003-04:00

Aliyah gave the turtle a hug on the way in.

Aliyah didn't want any part of the water so Caroline took Michael on the river.

Eventually she went on the river with me, sorry no pics.

Entering the play scape on the splash pad.Michael had a BLAST on this splash pad in the park.

Taking a break to have lunch.

Please don't smile for the camera if you have food in your mouth. Gross.

Michael having fun in the water.

A beautiful pic of my kids on the way out.
What a cool place.
Michael can not wait to go back!

Again....What Are You Doing?!

2011-08-13T08:14:00.002-04:00

If you want to look out the window, please stay on the floor next time!

What Are Your Doing?!

2011-08-01T13:11:00.001-04:00

A better question....How did you do that?!
No, you can't take a nap with the chair in the crib!

My Kids

2011-07-13T09:21:00.001-04:00

The kids just loved playing in front of the industrial fan today. I just laughed watching them, well actually at Aliyah because she just couldn't keep covered for nothing.
They are just too cute.

My Little Artist

2011-06-30T09:42:00.001-04:00

Micheal has started drawing from looking at other objects.
I must say, he is quite the artist. He gets that from his dad.

Happy Father's Day

2011-06-19T21:15:00.006-04:00

Daddy and his children.
What a happy group as we celebrate daddy today.

A nice picture for daddy.

We treated daddy to his favorite coney island in Detroit.

Then off to Daddy's favorite ice cream place, Cold Stone.
We got a kick out of watching Aliyah eat her ice cream, she was really enjoying the cotton candy flavor and as always sharing her dad's chocolate forest.
The kids also sang a cute song to their dad. Well, actually, when they went to perform for their dad Aliyah chose not to. No surprise there. So here is the recording when she did.

This girl........

2011-06-17T08:55:00.000-04:00

you can't take you eye off her for a moment! While I was using the bathroom, Michael went into the kitchen to get a drink and forgot to close the gate. My little escapee took advantage of the opportunity and proceeded to make her way downstairs, stroller and all!

Micheal's Last Day of Kindergarten

2011-06-16T11:03:00.000-04:00

Michael with his teacher, Ms. Telep.

The last day of school was a half day. PM students attended and AM students were invited with their parents. This day was a celebration of their promotion and of all the summer birthdays. Kids with summer birthdays brought ice cream and everyone else brought toppings.

Waiting in line as toppings are added.

"THE" SUNDAE
Yuck!

In line to get their share. These are some brave kids!

Doesn't it look yummy?! NOT!
Surprisingly, a lot of ice cream and toppings went to waste.
Too much, even for kids.

Michael with his buddy, Owen.Michael with his BF, Brennan.

Playin' on the playground with Brennan.

Cheesin' with Rebecca and Ms. Edna

Aliyah Drinks Up All Her Milk

2011-06-11T07:44:00.001-04:00

First Splash Pad Experience of the Year!

2011-06-05T10:54:00.003-04:00

Michael had a blast....

and Aliyah, well...she wasn't having anything to do with it.
She just sat in the shade and did what she does best, eat.

My Litte Ballerina

2011-05-25T15:41:00.001-04:00

Thanks for Adorable outfit Auntie Charity!

Silly Girl.....

2011-05-08T11:08:00.001-04:00

Sleeping Beauty.....

2011-05-08T07:10:00.001-04:00

Oh....I just love this precious little girl!

My Potty Book........

2011-05-06T18:02:00.001-04:00

Yup!
I just caught this girl chillin' on the floor reading up on how to use the bathroom.
Needless to say, it hasn't helped.

Aliyah is Two!

2011-05-05T03:00:00.000-04:00

My sweet Aliyah.

I still find it hard to believe that you are two!

Your behavior every day lets me know that it is indeed very true!

You are so sweet, loving, funny, stubborn, fiesty and completely opposite of your brother.

I am so very blessed to be your mom and I could not imagine my life without your smile.

I love you so much, my little girl.

Aliyah Gives Love to Uncle John John

2011-04-02T16:32:00.000-04:00

Michael went over and sat by John to watch cartoons. Aliyah likes to copy everything Michael does especially when it comes to attention from others. So....needless to say it didn't take long for her to make her way over to the couch with Uncle John John. Finally! It has been a LONG time coming but I am so glad he was able to get some Le-Le love! It appears as though Michael would rather watch Sponge Bob than take pictures right now.

Aliyah playing in their closet.

Thanks for the visit Uncle John and Aunt Candy!

Aliyah Plays with Papa

2011-04-02T12:20:00.002-04:00

Michael Reads to Nana

2011-04-02T12:16:00.002-04:00

Early Easter Baskets!

2011-04-02T12:00:00.000-04:00

Nana and Papa spoil these kids!

Our visit this weekend to Nana and Papa's house came with many goodies for the kids. Michael found some money in his eggs!

So did Aliyah, but she was more excited to get food. Imagine that!

Aliyah looks on while....you guessed it! She eats!

Aliyah would know that underwear doesn't go on the head if her stubborn butt would tell me she has to go before it happens, not after!

Opening Easter Baskets

2011-04-02T11:39:00.000-04:00

Aliyah's First Song

2011-03-26T12:07:00.001-04:00

I caught her singing to her babies today.

I ran to get my camera and by the time it started rolling she wouldn't sing.

So, it takes awhile but she does sing to them again.

Who Let Them Leave the House Like This?

2011-03-24T07:50:00.001-04:00

This is what happens when I ask Morris to help get the kids ready for school:)

Just kidding. Today was "Mix Matched" day at school.

Papa!

2011-03-14T18:14:00.000-04:00

Papa! Was all I could say then laugh.....

For those of you who don't know, Papa does this to the grandkids ALL the time.

Now Michael appears to be playing the same tricks on his sissy.

My Kookie Little Girl

2011-02-27T21:39:00.002-05:00

Why? I don't know but this girl gets so silly

when it is time to change her and put her

in her pj's. She starts dancing, singing, laughing

or anything else that may prolong the onset of bedtime.

Learning To Put Pants On

2011-02-27T16:01:00.000-05:00

So, this has been her new thing lately.

Here she is trying on one of her new spring outfits.

I love how she grabs her foot with her hand to place it in the correct place:) So Cute!

Hew new word this week is "Stop, K".

She either says it while pointing her pointer finger at you or by putting her hand up in your face.

She says it to anything or anybody.

Here she is speaking to her pants that don't seem to be doing what she wants them to do.

My Busy Kids at the Kitchen Table

2011-02-25T11:45:00.001-05:00

While Michael reviews his numbers...
Aliyah happily scribbles away as if she's working just as hard.

Did you notice? Is she a rightie (like her mom and Michael) or a leftie (like her dad)?
It's tough to tell, she interchanges between the two quite often right now.

It's Official...

2011-02-21T11:51:00.000-05:00

Aliyah has graduated from the highchair to the table.
She loves it!
And I love how independent she is at the table (cereal and all!)

Working at the Art Table

2011-02-14T17:33:00.000-05:00

These two find themselves here often.

Michael is so good about getting paper for his sissy and sharing his space:)

Gifts of Love from Nana!

2011-02-10T16:27:00.000-05:00

Love Notes from Nana and Papa!
No Surprise, Aliyah went for the treats first!

What's in the bag?

Michael's First Soccer Ball!

He loves it!

Thanks Nana and Papa!

Caught Michael Reading to His Sister!

2011-02-02T09:41:00.001-05:00

He is such a good big brother (most of the time)!

Someone LOVES Their New Art Table!

2010-12-27T19:59:00.001-05:00

Check out that smile!

I think its the most beautiful smile in the whole "city," as Michael would say.

Bath Towel Characters

2010-12-26T08:06:00.001-05:00

Too cute! Thanks Aunt Tammy!

Cranbrook Science Museum

2010-12-16T14:58:00.001-05:00

Digging for fossils.

Michael and I went to the Cranbrook Science Museum today.

He really enjoyed the dinosaur exhibit and

I really enjoyed just spending time with him:)

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T16:19:00.003-05:00

What a year! Because of the kind of year we had, I have a deeper understanding of everything I truly have to be thankful for. Sometimes, you don't know how much you've got until it's gone. I am so very thankful for my God, family, kids, my job and my home. Here are some great pics of some of the very special people that helped get us through the last year. They all supported us in one way or another, whether it was with food, money, a night out, free babysitting, a listening ear, job referrals, words of encouragement and most of all prayers. Thank you! We appreciate and are truly thankful for you all!

Dinner Discussion
Late Nap for Aliyah with Auntie Michia

Charity, Aunt Rose, Tanara, Faith and Trey

Michael in his glory, beyblading with BJ and Adeline

Aliyah with Uncle John John

Beyblades Cont......

Relaxing after a good meal....

Tempermental Aliyah being consoled (spoiled) by Dad.

Tony and Tanara

Awww.....Sweet Adeline relaxing with her momma.

Bowling on the Wii

Go Michael!

Aunt Candy playing with Aliyah.

Nana, Papa and the most beautiful group of grandkids in the world!

Thank you Lord for the amazing family and friends you have blessed us with!

Can You Believe It?!

2010-11-18T21:11:00.003-05:00

Yup, I finally sat down at the computer and posted some quick pics and happenings. Life has been very busy for three months now. Really? I've made it three months now? Last time Morris was out of state I barely made it two months with one two-year-old, master's classes and work. I took Michael to a school read-in tonight. I got a babysitter for Aliyah so Michael and I could go out together. We had a nice time. So, with a little energy left in me, I just said I would sit down and post some quick pics with in the hour. Well, it's past my bedtime so until the New Year....Just kidding. Hopefully it won't be long before I post the other larger, more important posts like Michael's First Day of School, Our Halloween and our visit from my sister and her family. Until then.....enjoy what I was able to post:)

Jim Gill Concert

2010-11-15T19:52:00.000-05:00

Michael and Jim GillMe and My Little Man

Michael and his friend Chloe

Soup Opera

We had a nice time, just Michael and Me.

Michael's First Soccer Practice

2010-11-13T12:29:00.000-05:00

This attempt did not work last time but I am so thankful it did this time! I was so proud of him. He did it and did it pretty well for the most part. He did keep picking his butt, I don't know what that was all about.

Trouble Adjusting to the End of Daylight Savings...

2010-11-09T20:37:00.000-05:00

This boy was passed out by 6:30 tonight.

Aliyah kept tapping him to wake him up to play but was he was out.

Some Serious Bed Head......

2010-11-07T08:35:00.000-05:00

Talking to Daddy on Skype

2010-11-04T20:47:00.000-04:00

It is quite a beautiful thing watch these kids talk to daddy through the computer.

Be advised, the next few photos are gross.

I imagine Michael is saying, "Ewwwww!"

Poor Elmo....

2010-10-23T20:45:00.001-04:00

Going on the Potty

2010-10-20T16:42:00.000-04:00

Finally got the ball rollin'.

My Lovely Children

2010-09-29T16:55:00.001-04:00

Aliyah is Ready for Daycare

2010-09-22T07:56:00.000-04:00

Busted!

2010-08-26T16:34:00.000-04:00

Picks one out, takes a bite, puts it down, tries another one in hopes that it tastes better.

It doesn't. So, after four I stop her. She wasn't too happy!

What's Up With That?

2010-08-26T08:04:00.001-04:00

This is the second time she has pulled her left arm out of her clothing in anger.

Awwwww......Look at the Sleeping Beauties

2010-08-23T12:49:00.000-04:00

That Didn't Take Long....

2010-08-23T10:43:00.000-04:00

I had only been gone an hour and a half for my heavenly massage and

when I came home, my daughter's hair was done up with ribbon and all.

It looks beautiful mom, should have known it wouldn't take you long.

Michael's Bakugan Business

2010-08-15T15:07:00.000-04:00

The Sleeping Prayer

2010-08-15T14:29:00.001-04:00

Got Pen?

2010-08-15T14:24:00.001-04:00

Mommy leavith pen lying around, Aliyah writith on self.

Gonna Leave a Mark

2010-08-15T14:21:00.000-04:00

Building with Legos

2010-08-13T15:01:00.000-04:00

This little girl loves to play with her big brother

and tries to do everything he does.

Building with legos happens quite often.

Say "Cheese" and this is what you get:)

Play Date at Kensington Park

2010-08-06T14:48:00.000-04:00

Ahhh....the beach.
What is this gainy brown stuff?

Michael and Chloe playing in the sand.

Gathering water.

Caleb playing in the sand.

Playing in the water with Suzy's flip flops.

Aliyah, sneaking sips from her brother's water bottle.

My sweet Aliyah drying off and trying to stay warm.

Waiting for brother and sister to wash off and get dressed.

Thank you Suzy for a wonderful day to the farm and beach.

We had a lot of fun!

Party at Addy's House

2010-07-25T23:09:00.000-04:00

Today is Addy's birthday and we are so blessed to be able to be here today.

Addy looked prettier than a princess.

Could they be any cuter?

Andrew, Me and Somebody's big head!

Isn't he precious?

Papa taking the princess and her prince on a carriage ride.

Some water fun.

Addy in her carriage made by Charity.

Getting ready for the carriage races.

Looks like they could win this!

Not so much! But they had fun and so did I!

Looking forward to many more celebrations of you, my sweet niece!:)

Too Cute!

2010-07-15T21:24:00.003-04:00

Filing Her Toe Nails

2010-07-11T15:37:00.000-04:00

While starting to paint my toe nails,

I noticed someone got their hands on my nail file

and thought she would file hers too.

My Big Girl Learning to Feed Herself

2010-07-06T22:30:00.001-04:00

Shouldn't I Be Covered

2010-07-05T16:40:00.003-04:00

It is REALLY hot and humid today so after changing Aliyah I decided not to put any of her clothes back on her,

which is a first besides the times she takes a bath.

If only I could read her mind.

Mom, Did you forget something?
What are these?

Daddy, Mommy has me walking around with my goodies out for the world to see!

Time With Grandpa Forte

2010-07-04T20:04:00.001-04:00

Putting puzzles together.
Aliyah will allow others to be near if you have snacks or read to her.
Grandpa read to her and she turned the pages.
I love this picture.

Michael and Me waiting patiently for the fireworks.

Michael and his Grandpa Forte.

Michael enjoying the fireworks.

Thank you, dad, for each and every time you come visit.

We truly enjoy spending time with you and

it really means a lot to us!

First Pig Tails

2010-07-04T12:51:00.000-04:00

Fourth of July Pic

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

Father and Daughter

2010-07-03T10:24:00.000-04:00

I absolutely love her hugs and when she lays her head on our shoulders.

What an amazing feeling and blessing, when your children begin to show their love for you.

Someone Is Lovin' Their Ben 10 Coloring/Activity Book

2010-06-30T19:00:00.000-04:00

Closed In - Passed Out

2010-06-30T13:07:00.000-04:00

Someone closed herself into her room today,

fussed for a bit but so tired

that by the time I got to her she was already asleep:)

Aliyah Feeding Self for 1st Time

2010-06-28T17:38:00.000-04:00

Baby Spanish?

2010-06-28T08:45:00.001-04:00

Lately, Michael responds to Aliyah's non-stop chatter with a "Yes", "Uh, Huh", "Okay" just like he hears his mom and dad do. Well, this morning, after sometime of a back and forth conversation between the two, Michael says to me, "Mom, I can understand sissy's baby Spanish. I can tell you what she says if you don't understand." :)

My LIttle Helper

2010-06-26T16:49:00.000-04:00

I forgetfully forgot the paper towel I used to wipe down the coffee table with. My little Copy Cat Helper picked up after me right away:)

Our Kids Love to Play on Our Bed

2010-06-25T20:53:00.000-04:00

This is a mild episode because Aliyah was more in the mood to play the "get off, get back on" game but still cute.

Aliyah's Walking.....Sort Of........

2010-06-22T16:22:00.001-04:00

For months, Aliyah has walked 2-3 steps between our coffee table and couch, sometimes even attempting 3-4 steps to her dad or me but on this day, while I was talking to my mom on the phone, she picked up my calculator from the coffee table and starting walking across the living room. I could not believe it! Finally!:)

Michael's Last Day of Preschool

2010-06-16T16:20:00.000-04:00

A picture with Ms. Maryanne and Ms. Rose
Michael with Maggie
He always says, "I like Maggie."

Pigging out on cupcakes in the courtyard.

Michael with his new best friend this year, Nicholas.

Kindergarten, here he comes!

My Busy Body

2010-06-13T18:12:00.001-04:00

A busy little girl makes for a lot of videos and

a good laugh. Enjoy!

Walker Racers

2010-06-13T17:59:00.001-04:00

This happens frequently upstairs.

Aliyah cheats a lot and turns around

half way through the living room.

I Feel the Need to Put Socks On

2010-06-13T17:00:00.000-04:00

Alphabet Magnets

2010-06-13T16:48:00.001-04:00

Someone LOVES to play with the Alpha Magnets on the Fridge,

if and when she gets past the gate:)

Ummmmm......

2010-06-13T12:41:00.000-04:00

Michael's door is shut and I can't get in.

A Weekend With My Girl

2010-05-31T20:49:00.003-04:00

Caught her playing in Michaels' room.

What?!

See my butt?

Oh, no you didn't just take a picture of my butt!!

Michael and Morris headed out of town Friday morning. My plan was to head to Saginaw on Monday. Well, my car decided to blow a head gasket on Friday night, which I found out on Saturday morning. So, I was confined to the house all weekend. I got a lot of cleaning done, did a bit of yard work, had a garage sale and spent a lot of time with my little girl.

Aliyah's Got Talent

2010-05-31T18:34:00.000-04:00

Arm Guards?

2010-05-30T19:51:00.002-04:00

Silly Girl, you'd know they belong on your feet if you would choose to walk!

I Don't Even Know What To Call This...

2010-05-24T20:57:00.004-04:00

Check out this face she makes.

I think she is trying to imitate Michael's "I'm mad" face.

Let me know if you another name for it:)

Praying while Sleeping?

2010-05-16T20:49:00.000-04:00

Even now as a toddler, she still fold her hands a lot.

Everyone thinks it is so cute and I do too.

New Car Seat Fitting

2010-05-16T20:38:00.001-04:00

Ohhhh.....another transition from the baby phase.

Thank you dada for all your time and effort to keep me safe.

Aliyah's Most Recent Tongue Trick

2010-05-14T20:30:00.002-04:00

Aliyah's One Year Appointment

2010-05-10T11:05:00.002-04:00

She weighs in at 19 lbs. 9 oz. and

has graduated out of the infant carrier

due to her height of 29 1/4 inches.

This is her pick me back up face.

This is her, "I'm okay face because brother is with me."

Michael as Batman

2010-05-06T20:40:00.001-04:00

Aliyah and Verna

2010-05-05T20:03:00.003-04:00

Opening her very first gift,

a Cabbage Patch Preemie named Verna Louise.

Aliyah abusively feeding Verna.

Aliyah Turns One

2010-05-05T19:43:00.001-04:00

We celebrated Aliyah's first birthday by going to our favorite Mexican Restaurant.
She loves their tortilla chips.

Her first fried ice cream!

My Cinco De Mayo baby!

My precious little girl! It's hard to believe you are a year old already.

I love you so much and could not imagine my life without you.
You are such a chatterbox, a yeller, determined, funny, smart, anti-social,

lover of mouth making sounds, loves to crawl over stuff and people, loves to play in Michael's room and copy what he does, a good pretend crier with pretend tears, an arm sucker, and absolutely adorable!

Brushing My Hair

2010-05-05T15:48:00.000-04:00

Getting Around Really Well

2010-04-28T19:00:00.001-04:00

Aliyah and Violet

2010-04-22T19:56:00.000-04:00

Aliyah is here with her puppy pal, Violet, before bed. She plays with Violet every night for about a half an hour before she finally falls asleep. Violet says her name, counts, says the abc's, spells her name, plays lullabies and asks her questions. She loves it! Thank you Auntie Candy!

2010-04-20T15:11:00.001-04:00

I still peak in on him while he sleeps and kiss his sweet cheeks or forehead.
What a sweet blessing he is.
Why he loves this baboon stuffed animal, I don't know.
Maybe its because I say they have "ugly butts."
Check out his pillow.

Sound Asleep

2010-04-19T20:31:00.000-04:00

Uh, Oh, I woke somebody up.

How "NOT" To Use A Walker

2010-04-18T16:20:00.000-04:00

Too Cute for Words......

2010-04-12T14:34:00.000-04:00

Fart Man

2010-04-10T15:10:00.004-04:00

Did you know there is a new super hero? Well, according to Michael, there is a new superhero called "Fart Man" and his superhero powers allow him to smell people's butts. Ewwwww...... where does he come up with this stuff? I could seriously write a book about all the stuff I hear in a day. Between my own kids and the kids at school, I get a few smiles from silly, innocent and creative imaginations.

Spelling In The Car

2010-04-09T19:06:00.000-04:00

While driving back home Friday night, Michael and I were spelling all sorts of words like mom, dad, sis, Jesse, nana, papa, dog, etc. He asked to spell all these words that were very familiar to him until he asked how this next word was spelled, "heart attack." I was like, "Heart attack." He said, "Yeah." I said, "Where did you hear that word?" He said, "Papa." I said okay and proceeded to spell the word for him. Hmmmm......