The Harvey Girls

Tiny Dancer

2012-01-27T20:25:00.002-05:00

The Budding Scientist

2012-01-24T21:29:00.004-05:00

On Monday Olivia participated in her 1st ever Science Fair. She was super excited to show off her project that she worked hard on, with some help from Mom and Dad. Of course being that Daddy is an electrical engineer, her project was a conductivity tester. We might have gone with something else, but the school rules were no liquids, foods, plants, or animals so that basically left electrical stuff or pictures. We went with the electrical project.

The project consisted of a battery connected to aluminum foil connected to a light bulb. If the scientist puts something metal across the two ends of the foil the lightbulb turns on. If the material is non metal it stays off.

I think she had fun...

The proud scientists...

Olivia didn't place in the competition, however she did get a certificate of completion and a pencil from the Principal. Good job Olivia!

2012-01-18T22:28:00.001-05:00

Cruisin'

2011-12-29T12:52:00.003-05:00

The girls are loving the plasma car from Grandma and Grandpa Harvey. We have a perfect little hill that's a dead end on our street for riding. The weight limit goes up to 200 so even I can ride it! Alaina does like riding it, however as you can see in the background of the 2nd picture she prefers housecleaning to anything else (she is helping Grandma Hopkins clean windows).

Olivia right before she crashes into the big pile of leaves at the bottom of the hill...

I love this picture...

Gotta run as Olivia is trying to go down the hill right now with no shoes on AHHH!

Christmas Pics

2011-12-28T13:26:00.001-05:00

What did Santa bring?

Corinne eating what was left of Santa's cookies...

Santa's Presents...

Christmas Sweets

2011-12-18T22:27:00.002-05:00

Brian's Mom used to always make sugar cookies with frosting and sprinkles for Christmas. He is carrying on the tradition by making cookies late into the night with Olivia. Rolling out the dough and cutting the cookie shapes was a bit stressful, but Olivia was an excellent assistant. She supplied a pinch of extra flour when Daddy needed it.

Of course the best part was the frosting...

Yummy looking cookies!

And a gingerbread house too... those two were busy!

Santa!

2011-12-08T11:33:00.001-05:00

Please ignore me, that was as close as Alaina felt like coming to the big guy...

You know Daddy is an engineer...

2011-12-05T09:34:00.001-05:00

... When your child thinks writing binary code is something you do for fun.

Olivia's letter to Santa

2011-11-28T10:08:00.003-05:00

Dear Santa,

Christmas will be here soon. I have been good this year. Therefore, I am writing a list of presents I would like for you to bring...

1. Rapunzel's Mommy and Daddy (as far as I know this doesn't exist, but don't tell Olivia that)

2. A doggie that walks with fur

* My sister Alaina would like a baby that pees and poos

3. A big doll that looks like me

4. Glitter glue

5. A Santa Doll

6. Stickers

7. Lightning Mcqueen and Mater from Cars 2

8. A choo choo train with tracks and remote

9. A plastic lollipop (????)

10. a water table (in the winter?)

11. Thanksgiving read along stories (Olivia just likes audiobooks in general, when she wrote this list we were still in the Thanksgiving spirit!)

Love,
Olivia

Baby Jesus

2011-11-24T09:36:00.001-05:00

All the animals came to see the baby Jesus, even the moose!

And we closed on the house. Woohoo!

Christmas List

2011-11-23T10:47:00.002-05:00

I thought I would post gift ideas for the girls if anyone would like some ideas. I think the Jack in the Box is cute and we don't have one yet.

http://www.amazon.com/registry/wishlist/21D8FGL16Y4IW/ref=cm_wl_rlist_go_o

I'll let Olivia make her own list for Santa. I'm curious to see what she writes.

Happy thanksgiving!

Peek-a-boo

2011-11-17T22:05:00.001-05:00

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Recent Pictures

2011-11-15T11:20:00.002-05:00

An update on us: Olivia is back to school after her most recent "track-out". It's like a mini summer vacation and just when we start to get on each others nerves back to school she goes! I really think I'm liking this year round school thing.

Alaina is starting to imitate more sounds! This is so exciting for me after waiting so long. She has tons of signs, but was reluctant to try any speech. She is saying "O" for open, an "ah" sound, mmm, and bye bye with a prompt. I can't wait to hear all the things Alaina has to say!

Oh Corinne... this girl is sooo opinionated. She knows what she wants and doesn't want to hear any no's. LOL. She is saying bye bye, da da , and uh oh. So cute! I don't know why my kids never want to come out with Mama ;)

And our big news: We will be closing on our house any day now!!! It's been a lot of work (Just ask poor Brian who has been dealing with all the paperwork, negotiations, etc.) and it will be a relief to have it done. Please send good thoughts our way that everything goes smoothly!

Halloween 2011- The Witch, The Ladybug, and the Lion

2011-11-01T08:36:00.002-04:00

Halloween, the much anticipated event, is over. All the girls dressed up, even if only briefly. Alaina and Corinne were sick and the weather was cold and rainy so they stayed in to help Daddy hand out candy. The little lion cub was not very excited about her hat :(

Olivia was very excited though! She had a great time trick or treating with her neighborhood buddies. Many of the houses were decorated really well, it was so much fun.

Pics from our spooky Halloween train ride:

The girls first train ride:

Olivia loved it, Alaina was a bit freaked out, and Corinne was squirming to get down. It was beautiful view of NC. There were ghosts, witches, etc. along the way. Very neat!

Happy Halloween!

Step Up for Down Syndrome 2011

2011-10-25T14:12:00.006-04:00

We attended our 2nd Step Up for Down Syndrome walk (previously the Buddy Walk) a couple weeks ago. I'm not really the best at posting things right after they happen. Life is just so busy, as I know it is for most people. Anyways, the kiddos all had fun and it was neat to see all the kids with extra chromosomes and their families.

Mainly Brian and I just did lots of running around after Alaina and Corinne. They are both busy little girls who unfortunately are usually going in opposite directions. Thankfully my mom was there to supervise Olivia so she could do some fun activities.

I don't think Alaina wanted her picture taken! Either that or the sun was in her eyes...

Alaina rockin' it out on stage to the music... This girl loves to dance!

Can't wait til next year!

We got BOOED!

2011-10-16T20:28:00.001-04:00

Messy

2011-10-13T08:34:00.001-04:00

Learning to Feed yourself is messy!

Going for a walk

2011-10-11T15:59:00.001-04:00

My little cuties going out for a walk while we wait for Olivia's bus.

Flowers

2011-10-07T17:36:00.001-04:00

Tomorrow makes 6 years!

Down Syndrome Awareness Month

2011-10-02T21:08:00.002-04:00

Gwen's blog has been hacked by her lovely husband Brian. I just wanted to let everyone know that October is DSAM. I love you Alaina and wanted to show that we support you in every way. Thanks Gwen for allowing me to do this post.

Last Day of Summer

2011-09-30T15:12:00.001-04:00

The last day of summer and also Corinne's birthday! Daddy captured these cuties on the porch. Can't ever get
everyone all smiling together. I mean you Alaina! Trying to upload cake pictures, but having issues with the computer. I'll try again later.

Morning

2011-09-30T08:45:00.001-04:00

I will post pics of Corinne's birthday soon. For now a pic of our morning playing blocks.

Tomorrow is a big day!

2011-09-21T22:31:00.001-04:00

My littlest girl is turning one! Happy Birthday Corinne!

PSA for those with Hardwood Floors and Kids

2011-09-16T12:27:00.003-04:00

Yesterday morning I caught Alaina happily playing on Olivia's floor with a marker. She drew all over herself too. Mommy was not happy! To be fair there was a piece of paper on the floor with a drawing on it. Yay for drawing, boo for not keeping it on the paper =)

It wasn't the washable kind so I panicked thinking about how to get it off. Googled markers on hardwoods and found out that you can use toothpaste to get it off. Tried it this morning and it worked perfect! So relieved. Lesson learned, must keep markers locked up at all times!

Shortly after that incident I went to put Corinne for a nap. Heard some commotion, but didn't think much of it. It was Alaina dumping the Cheerios all over the kitchen. Darn it! I usually always put the cereal back in the pantry, but apparently forgot this morning.

This is Alaina giving herself a pat on the head. She does this when she knows she is in trouble!

Thanks for helping me clean up Alaina. I know you are a curious 2 year old so Mommy needs to be more vigilant!

P.S. Thank you, thank you, thank you to Grandmpa and Grandma Harvey, Grandma Hopkins, and Stacy for donating to Step Up for Down Syndrome! We really appreciate your support!

FirstGiving - Your fundraising

2011-08-25T14:51:00.000-04:00

FirstGiving - Your fundraising

The link to Alaina's fundraising page for Step Up for Down Syndrome. We would appreciate any donations made on her behalf!

Slacking

2011-08-17T14:00:00.002-04:00

It's been forever since I could post. Most of that due to this little one ;) Corinne has taken over our bonus/ guest room/ computer room for now so no computer during naps or nighttime.
I am grateful though because she has been sleeping much better since moving! Add to that the fact that I've started back at school myself, and it will be a miracle if I blog again.

Thankfully Olivia starts back at school next week after being out for three weeks. She and I both have enjoyed her attending school. Alaina and Corinne will also attend a Mother's Morning Out program once a week to give me a free morning starting September. I won't even know what to do with myself. Probably school work or house cleaning :)

Happy Heart Day: Then and Now

2011-07-28T13:06:00.004-04:00

Then:

Two years ago today Alaina had heart surgery to repair her AVSD. While heart surgery is a scary thought, for Alaina is was a truly wonderful thing. Not too long ago babies with this type of heart defect died in early childhood. Thanks to tremendous advances in surgical technology something like 99% of kids now survive. Before surgery she had a difficult time breathing and required a feeding tube to eat. Almost immediately afterward she turned around completely and has never looked back. Aside from yearly visits to the cardiologist it's not a topic I think about very often.

Now:

(performing some sort of surgery on Bitty Baby)

Congratulations on your Happy Heart Day Alaina!

Dancing in the Rain

2011-07-28T05:57:00.002-04:00

We had some much needed rain here on Monday night. It has been so hot you could literally see steam rising off the pavement as it came down. At first Olivia and Alaina put hats on trying to keep their little heads dry, but soon it was clear they were going to get WET! They had so much fun splashing in puddles. The only thing Alaina doesn't like is when Olivia trys to pour buckets of water down her back. Yikes!

Olivia's 1st Day of Kindergarten

2011-07-11T12:01:00.002-04:00

Right now Olivia is enjoying her 1st day of kindergarten. Yes, she is going to year round school. There are multiple tracks of times the kids are in, but most year round kids start in July. Olivia only goes today with a few others kids and then won't go again until next week. She has been super excited about it. I know she's going to do great!

Greeting her teacher, Mrs. Mackey. She seems really nice. Some girls who live down the street said that she was their kindergarten teacher and they really liked her. It makes me feel better to know she has a great teacher.

Finding her cubby hole:

and off to play with new friends...

and no I didn't even cry ;) Although they are having a "Tea and Tissues" gathering next week for kindergarten parents. Maybe I will let it out then. For now I'm feeling optimistic that this will be a great year for my big girl!

A day to remember... at OneTrueMedia.com

2011-06-25T21:21:00.001-04:00

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Our Little Garden

2011-06-16T16:21:00.002-04:00

Olivia's 1st Swim Meet at OneTrueMedia.com

2011-06-15T13:20:00.001-04:00

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Happy 5th Birthday Olivia!

2011-06-14T12:45:00.002-04:00

My first baby is five today. I can hardly believe it! It really does feel like these five years have flown by. This birthday has been bittersweet for me. I've been saying that five feels like the official end of babyhood. Of course Olivia tells me she will always be my baby when I say this. This year she grows up though. Olivia will be starting Kindergarden in August. I think we are both ready for it, but it still is hard to let your child go out into the world and gain their independence. Love you Olivia! Five is gonna be great!

Pool party!

Little Mermaid cake...

Look at that face!!

Rockin' New Kicks

2011-06-10T08:24:00.003-04:00

Alaina recently got some rockin' new footwear as recommended by her physical therapist. They are custom fit orthotics that are designed to keep her ankles more stable as she walks. Most kids with Down syndrome have varying degrees of low muscle tone and hyperflexibility of their joints. This can cause the ankles to turn in thus making the ankles less stable. The orthotics help with arch and ankle support.

They even have cute little butterflies on them!!!

According to the orthotist she doesn't require any special shoes to go over so we are just using her regular ones.

Alaina is quite particular about people messing with her shoes. Hence the sad face she displayed for the camera...

I already notice that she is walking a little more confidently. It's also easier for her to squat when her ankles are supported. Something we are working on in PT.

Looking good kid!

Potty Success

2011-06-08T12:19:00.004-04:00

Alaina had a potty success! She's been practicing potty routines the past week or so and seems interested so we gave it a go yesterday. I brought her over by the potty after snack time which is usually when she will have a pee. I really feel like she knew what the deal was because she kept looking at me, then would go sit on the potty, get up, repeat, etc. etc. Anyways I wasn't paying to much attention (because of the other two) and when I got up to look there was pee in the potty! It's really encouraging to know that Alaina can do it! I just have to be more consistent with giving her the opportunity.

Signing "all done" ...

This little one even got in on the act. Believe it or not she went #2 in the potty this morning after I noticed her making the "I gotta go" face. I seriously couldn't believe it.

Way to go girls!

Would you like cream with that?

2011-06-02T16:22:00.005-04:00

This morning I was running around getting ready, taking a shower, etc. Alaina has therapy at 8:30 on Thurs. so I have to move quick. Anyways at about 8:20 Olivia announces that she has made me a bowl of cereal for breakfast. Even though I just ate an hour before I didn't want to hurt her feelings. Or squash such a generous attitude.

So I ate some of the cereal and then threw the rest in the sink. The milk tasted kind of funny, but I didn't think about it too hard. Then I open the refrigerator and see the carton of half n half right in front of the milk jug. I shake it and realize that although it was full this morning it is now noticeably lighter. Did I just have creamer on my cereal? Yep and aparently so did Olivia. Yuck! I will definitely inspect her food prep a little closer in the future.

It was a sweet gesture though. Thanks Olivia! Let's try to stick with the 2% from now on, ok?

Wordless Wednesday: Slip 'n' Slide

2011-06-01T21:09:00.002-04:00

Outside at OneTrueMedia.com

2011-05-10T12:16:00.001-04:00

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Fun with Eggs

2011-04-23T16:11:00.002-04:00

Olivia got to dye her own eggs at home this afternoon. I told Brian we should hide them in the yard tomorrow morning, but he disagrees. He thinks it would lead to rotting eggs sitting around in our yard. He's probably right. Maybe the Bunny will bring some plastic ones with treats for three pretty little girls.

The finished product:

I still haven't fully relinquished the task of dyeing to Olivia. Just not that brave yet. She did get to head the decorating team though ;)

Corinne- 7 month pics

2011-04-22T12:58:00.002-04:00

A Miracle

2011-04-21T14:57:00.002-04:00

Playtime

2011-04-19T11:15:00.003-04:00

The conversation (as interpreted by me):

JJ: "Hey, can you come out and play?"

Alaina: "First I have to ask my Mom"

Oh, no! Kids with water guns! No way I'm going outside!~

Sneakily hiding in the bushes waiting to ambush someone... I see you!

She got me... Look at the delight on her face...

Mom!!! How dare you accuse me of eating mulch... I would never do such a thing.

Um-hum. I believe you Alaina.

Not in Kansas Anymore

2011-04-17T10:28:00.002-04:00

Yesterday there were multiple tornados in NC. The girls and I were at home and had no clue! Brian went out on an errand ending up right in the path of a tornado! He called and said, "Get in bathroom because debris is falling out of the sky". What??? Of course our TV reception is lacking so couldn't get any news there. So I got the girls in the bathroom and we waited on Brian to get home. He got home safe, but was definitely a bit freaked out by the experience. Here he is telling the story: Corinne had just woke up after sleeping through the ordeal: Olivia playing outside afterwards. There is a chunk of sheet rock in the grate. Minor debris was scattered throughout the neighborhood. Tromping through a big puddle left by the rain. Our house was left unscathed, but there was damage to other parts of the area. Hope we don't see anymore of tornados here!

Wordless Wednesday: Birthday Pics

2011-04-13T14:58:00.002-04:00

Happy 2nd Birthday Alaina!

2011-04-01T12:46:00.001-04:00

Yay, sweet girl you are two! This has been such an exciting year for Alaina.

All the milestones Alaina has accomplished this year:

-learning to crawl and then walk; she walks everywhere now

-Alaina has learned sign language; she has at least 25 signs and regularly uses them

-She has a wuf-wuf sound for animals, especially dogs and uses a motor sound for anything with wheels; also an approximation of up, baby, bye-bye

-She is eating most of her meals by herself. Even starting to use her spoon and fork regularly. Drinks out of straw.

-Alaina's speech is delayed compared to her typical peers, however her gross and fine motor skills are doing pretty good

-She likes to play with puzzles, push-toys, stacking toys, and her favorite is the piggy bank toy that plays music when you put the coins in.

-She is also a great big sister! Always gentle and loving with little sis Corinne. Even brings her toys to play with.

We love you Alaina and are so glad you are ours! Happy Birthday!

Love this!

2011-03-31T15:59:00.001-04:00

The Colbert Report
Tags: Colbert Report Full Episodes,Political Humor & Satire Blog,Video Archive

Olivia 3/28/11 at OneTrueMedia.com

2011-03-28T14:35:00.001-04:00

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Alaina LOOOVES Her Books

2011-03-16T14:42:00.000-04:00

Naughty in Training

2011-03-14T15:46:00.003-04:00

Alaina is taking her big sister role very seriously. She's always showing off her cool big kid skills. Like getting in drawers and making messes All. The. Time. Corinne is more than happy to help, playing with whatever Alaina tosses her way.

Who me?

Yes you!

I'm a tad worried what kind of trouble these two will get in once Corinne is on the move as well :p

Happy B-Day Brian

2011-03-07T16:14:00.003-05:00

Today is Brian's 32nd birthday, wishing him a wonderful year. He is an awesome husband and father so we made his party special with a great cake and dinner this weekend. Birthdays are super fun around here. Olivia is at the age where she is really excited about it while at the same time wishing it could be her day. It will be soon enough.

Oh it seems like we've been sick forever now. As soon as everyone was recovering from the first illness a second one struck. I've got my fingers crossed that this will be the last sickness for awhile. Come on spring because I'm ready!

The little bunny with a smile...

The troublemakers... Seriously having a hard time keeping up with these two... Love these girls though...

Love to everyone till next time because it may be awhile... Haha

Alaina is walking! at OneTrueMedia.com

2011-02-24T11:01:00.001-05:00

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She got it

2011-02-16T20:44:00.002-05:00

After frantically mouthing her hands all the time and gagging herself on fingers that are too long little miss Corinne has finally found her thumb. She loves it! Notice how she is supporting her thumb hand with the other one? Can't let that thumb get away!

In other news one little girl is all out sick (Alaina) and Olivia may be coming down with something too. Olivia made the funny observation that, "When cute people get sick they don't look very cute anymore". Sad, but true so I'll spare you pics till they are on the mend.

Valentine's- In Pictures

2011-02-14T11:34:00.003-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day from the girls! Olivia bounced out of her room today declaring that it was Valentine's Day and we had all better be wearing pink or red. Daddy was excused from the dress code because he was off to work. The girls are so sweet with each other, it really warms my heart to see them together. It was Alaina's naptime so she kept trying to fall asleep while I took pictures...

After giving Olivia a kiss...

Next a kiss for Corinne...

Guess they're all done taking pictures...

Settling In

2011-02-08T10:34:00.003-05:00

Well there are still quite a few boxes to deal with, and a slightly messy house. For the most part though we have settled in. Olivia and Alaina have their own rooms now, where before they were sharing a room. Corinne is still quite happy to be staying in the best digs in the house (mom and dad's room). Alaina was quick to check out the kitchen which is her favorite part of the house. All the drawers and cupboards are irresistable to her. At least half of them contain stuff specifically for her.

Loving on baby sister. Corinne surely gets plenty of attention around here...

Olivia in her new room... She loves it, especially the fact that she can make it off limits to little sisters =)

I think we are all going to be happy here...

Goodbye Internet

2011-01-10T12:47:00.002-05:00

This will be the last post for awhile. As some of you may know our family will be moving in two weeks. Alas our internet is being cut off today and it probably won't be back until late January. Everyone is doing great here. Alaina is taking more steps, so I'm sure she will be off and running in no time. Olivia is enthusiastic about the move as it means she will finally have her own room again. Corinne is growing bigger everyday, and a delight to all of us. I leave you with some cute pics until next time =)

Pictures by Olivia

2011-01-03T12:34:00.003-05:00

These are pictures Olivia took with her new camera. These were the clearest ones out of almost 200 pics LOL. We had a great Christmas and have been spending time together the past week. Hope everyone else had great holidays too!

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-24T16:55:00.001-05:00

Merry Christmas to all our readers!

She's taking steps!

2010-12-21T17:20:00.001-05:00

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

More Santa Photos

2010-12-20T14:30:00.002-05:00

Here are Alaina and Corinne's photos with Santa. Aren't they adorable?

Just for fun here is one of Olivia when she was Alaina's age. For the past two years she has been scared of the big guy so no photos. I wouldn't be surprised if it happens to Alaina next year and then Corinne will be on her own =)

Random Snow Pics

2010-12-16T13:19:00.000-05:00

Olivia's Christmas Program at OneTrueMedia.com

2010-12-15T10:16:00.001-05:00

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Christmas Party

2010-12-11T20:55:00.005-05:00

Today we went to the annual Christmas party held by the Down Syndrome Association located in Raleigh. We are fairly isolated where we live so it was nice to get together with other families for the day. Alaina was crawling all over the place as usual. We even met met a little boy who lives nearby so yay for new friends! Here Alaina is playing peek a boo with a nice lady...

It's one of her favorite games...

Olivia spent the entire time at the craft tables. She has an ongoing obsession with all things arts and crafts related. Our house is a constant mess of paper, crayons, and glue.

The only kid who wasn't a bit worried about Santa...

He was an AWESOME Santa! We ended up getting some great pics of Alaina and Corinne, but I'm waiting on an email for them. Olivia outright refused and I couldn't even get her in the same room with him. Haha, maybe next year=)

Wordless Wednesday- Olivia's Handiwork

2010-12-08T15:14:00.001-05:00

Wordless Wednesday- My swing!

2010-12-01T09:52:00.003-05:00

Christmas Pic Outtakes

2010-11-28T11:40:00.003-05:00

Well that was fun! Every year Brian sets up our photo shoot for Christmas pictures. With every new addition it has become more of a challenge to get a good one. Thankfully everyone was pretty cooperative and we had my mom here to help.

Here's Alaina thinking about crying...

Full on crying...

Now Alaina's smiling, but Olivia has forgot hers...

Corinne's turn!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-25T11:29:00.003-05:00

So thankful for my three little turkeys!

It's that time again!

2010-11-24T08:33:00.002-05:00

The time has come to rake the leaves out of our massive yard. Of course Olivia was ready to help with her little rake and came prepared in pajamas and rainboots. Unfortunately her pile ended up on Alaina who was not happy about it...

Stopping for important business...

Yay! The best part of all is jumping in the leaves!

The only one doing the actual work...

50 Free Holiday Cards from Shutterfly

2010-11-17T08:05:00.003-05:00

Christmas is fast approaching and it's time to start getting busy on our cards for this year. The past couple of years I would go to a store to order prints with pictures we take at home. This year it's going to be Shutterfly because then I don't even have to leave the house (haha). With three little ones it's the solution that makes sense. Shutterfly also has really neat designs for their holiday cards. You can pick between a traditional folded card or a flat stationary card.

So that's the easy part. The hard part is getting the actual pictures. Getting everyone dressed and cooperative this year will be a challenge. I'm thinking maybe just pictures of the girls, individually if they don't all sit together. Alaina is usually scooting out of the picture within a couple seconds so we will see =) Good thing is that the little girls already have dresses from Olivia so she's the only one in need of a new one. Can't wait to see the finished product! I'll be sure to post some outtakes here afterwards.

Some of my favorite shutterfly projects:

cards: http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery

photobooks: http://www.shutterfly.com/photo-books

calenders: http://www.shutterfly.com/calendars/wall-calendars

If any other bloggers would like to participate to get 50 free photo cards from Shutterfly go to the link below:

Bloggers get 50 free holiday cards from Shutterfly http://bit.ly/sfly2010

Wordless Wednesday- Tummy Time

2010-11-10T16:35:00.000-05:00

Wordless Wednesday- Fieldtrip at the Farm

2010-11-03T14:13:00.002-04:00

Election Day

2010-11-02T10:49:00.001-04:00

If you haven't already, please go vote. Alaina did!

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-31T08:57:00.005-04:00

Yesterday was busy! We ended up celebrating Halloween the whole weekend long.

First up was a birthday party for Alaina's friend Skyela who was turning 2. It was at a horse farm so Olivia got her first horse ride! I was surprised that she wasn't a bit scared to get up on this gigantic horse. . .

Riding high...

and then continuing with the horse theme Olivia dressed up as the cowgirl "Jessie" from Toy Story.

Our not so enthusiastic ladybug...

They've all got colds right now, even little Corinne. Takes a little bit of fun out of the holiday.

We trick or treated around our neighborhood and downtown where we live. It was fun seeing all the neat costumes and decorations. Then tonight there was a Halloween event at the church with games. The kids all had to play for their candy. Olivia made a bracelet, bookmark, and won a cupcake on the cake walk. Can't wait till next time! Happy Halloween!

Wordless Wednesday- Baby Naps

2010-10-20T13:26:00.002-04:00

Staying Busy

2010-10-15T13:50:00.002-04:00

The weather is great for getting out so that's just what we did yesterday. It keeps the girls busy without me going crazy trying to keep them occupied in the house. There is a neighbor down the road who sets up Halloween inflateables all over his yard so that was the first stop. It's a really cool set up with paths to walk through and Olivia loves it.

Alaina hasn't been scared over other Halloween decorations before, but she did not like the Gargoyle! Olivia wouldn't go near it either.

The jack o' lantern and pirate ship were fine though.

Last stop was the playground. Kind of muddy from the rain, but that's ok. Even though Alaina not walking she really gets around at the playground and has her own fun. She likes standing at the bottom of slide ladder waiting for Olivia. Because of course Olivia has to climb the slide and go down the ladder instead of the other way around. Alaina also likes the little playhouse there.

Good times!

Cute new pics

2010-10-09T14:05:00.002-04:00

Some cute pics of the girls we had done. Unfortunately Sear's has started watermarking the pictures unless you pay for the digital rights. They were all so cooperative and adorable. Certainly rare for picture day!

Corinne's Birth Story

2010-09-28T21:56:00.004-04:00

This all started during the evening on Monday. We go for a walk every night around the neighborhood and I noticed that the contractions I was having were a little more intense then just warm-up ones. All that night and the next day I had sporadic contractions, but never felt like they were getting closer or more intense. That night around the girl's bedtime everything started picking up so I called the birth center where we were having the baby to let them know it could be tonight! We held off on leaving for another hour or so as Brian got everything ready. Decided to leave the house around 9 pm so we could get settled in at the birth center instead or risking a baby in the car =) Got to the birth center at around 10:30; put the girls back to sleep after the car ride and waited on my mom to come to stay with them. Labor kept picking up, but come 2pm still no baby and I was ready to have her. I decided to have my water broken so that I could get ready to try to push. After some really intense contractions and a few good pushes she was out. Ah, that was heaven! Later that day we packed up and went home to relax with our new baby.

So that's how our precious girl joined the world. We are all thrilled to have her here and home with us. It's my first experience taking my baby home. Just getting to hold and snuggle her is so wonderful. Our only complication was Corinne having a tongue tie that had to be clipped. Since that was fixed she has been nursing fine, just doing her baby stuff. Olivia and Alaina have been enjoying her too. Olivia was thrilled from day one while Alaina took a few days to show interest in her. Now she notices Corinne and tries to talk with her or pat her. It's so cute to see the older girls loving on Corinne.

Thanks to everyone for your well wishes and comments on our beautiful baby girl!

She's Here!

2010-09-22T15:36:00.002-04:00

The littlest Harvey girl!

Her name is Corinne Autumn and she came on Wed. just as Mama predicted.

She was 8 lb. 9 oz. and 20 1/2 in. long. The biggest of all three girls!

Born at 2:44 this morning. We are home now and mama and baby are doing great =)

I'll update more after we all get some much needed rest.

Sisterly Love

2010-09-20T15:54:00.002-04:00

Alaina got her car seat turned around this weekend so now I can see what's going on back there. She was getting some mysterious bruises on the arm that is next to Olivia. Olivia always wants to hold her hand, but Alaina refuses when she is awake. Aren't they so sweet! It won't last long though because Olivia is moving to the third row as soon as baby girl (currently missing an official name) makes her debut. Due on Fri. though I'm planning for Wed. now since the girls were both Wed. babies too. We shall see!

Somebody's Climbing!

2010-09-08T17:06:00.003-04:00

Uh oh! Olivia's bed is Alaina's latest climbing accomplishment. She can do stairs as long as they are big enough to balance on and also regularly gets on the mini trampoline. I think we would have to take off the couch pillows for her to even attempt that obstacle. Good thing is that Alaina is pretty cautious when it comes to her own safety so she will sit on the bed and yell for me instead of diving off. She hasn't quite figured out the getting down part yet =)

1st Day of Preschool

2010-08-31T17:26:00.002-04:00

Olivia had her 1st official day of preschool today. She is going back to the same church preschool from last year for three days a week. I've signed her up to go early so that Brian can drop her off on the way to work. Girly likes her sleep and wasn't thrilled about getting up at 7 am! When I picked her up she said she had a good day although they served Cheerios and she doesn't like them. Oh well =)

Now me and this little one get to spend those mornings just the two of us. We've been exploring Olivia's toys without interruption and I think she likes it.

She's saying, "Ooh, the little dolls I never get to play with!"

Alaina w/ the chair

2010-08-17T20:09:00.001-04:00

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Wordless Wednesday- The Mess They Make

2010-08-17T20:03:00.004-04:00

Baby Picture

2010-08-11T04:42:00.002-04:00

A photo of our littlest baby girl. This is a 3d ultrasound photo of her taken yesterday. It is so neat to be able to see your baby's features before they even arrive! She is doing great and we can't wait to welcome her in about 6 weeks. I'm hoping for an autumn equinox baby, but we all know how much babies care about calenders =)

Wordless Wednesday- Imitating

2010-07-28T12:09:00.002-04:00

Disney Trip

2010-07-19T15:11:00.003-04:00

Here are some pics from our Disney World trip. We just got back on Sat. and there are tons of photos to sort through. Overall we had a really great time. Olivia did well most of the time and Alaina stayed with my mom some of the days. One of the best parts was how authentic the characters were. They looked and acted the part so well and Olivia enjoyed getting to meet them after getting over her initial shyness.

This is a pic of Brian on stage with Belle. She picked him to play the Beast during a storytime that they acted out. Unfortunately he had the camera in his pocket the whole time so I didn't get any pictures until the end. It was Brian's favorite "Disney moment".

Taking a spin on the tea cups.

This was Olivia with her 3-D glasses at the Toy Story ride. Definitely one of our favorite rides there and thankfully with the Fastpass system we didn't even have to wait in line.

This little one is happy to be home. She enjoys being able to roam the house and play with her toys. Her latest activity has been dubbed as having a party in the bathroom. It's a phrase one of Olivia's friends picked up in kindergarten for when the naughty kids play in the bathroom. Alaina can often be caught playing with toys in the toilet and unrolling the paper. We all are having to learn the importance of keeping bathroom doors closed to prevent any further parties in the bathroom =)

Pool Pics

2010-06-29T10:12:00.002-04:00

There is a pool down the street from our house and we've been spending a lot of time there this summer. Olivia would stay all day every day if she could. Notice her new swim attire of a vest and water wings. She was insisting on using a round tube she has had forever, but it got a hole last week and so she was forced to move on. Now she can swim all over the pool with her new gear. Alaina likes her floaty too. When the water was really cold she would holler and try to jump out of her floaty. Now she is pretty content to cruise the pool with one of us. It is going to be a great summer!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-06-23T14:23:00.001-04:00

Olivia's B-Day Party

2010-06-13T19:57:00.002-04:00

On Saturday we had a party for Olivia at the park. She will be 4 tomorrow! She invited some buddies from the neighborhood and preschool. The kids painted little spaceship puzzles to go with her Toy Story theme, played bubbles, and kicked around soccer balls. Olivia wore a cowboy hat like Jesse in the Toy Story 2 movie. We will also be taking her to Toy Story 3 when it comes out later this month. It will be her first visit to the movie theatre.

There was pizza and then a yummy cake from our local bakery. So tasty and pretty too!

Blowing out the candles...

and the best part...

presents!

She had a great time and I think the other kids did too. Definitely worth the effort put in to make it happen for her. Can't believe she's four now. It always feels like she is growing up fast when birthdays come around. Happy Birthday Olivia!

Memorial Weekend

2010-06-01T12:41:00.002-04:00

This memorial weekend we stayed close to home. On saturday we went to a local festival that had a petting zoo. Olivia liked feeding the goats best of all. She kept pulling up handfuls of grass to feed them and the goats liked it. She also got her face painted and a temporary tattoo on her arm.

On Sunday we went to Poplar Forest, Thomas Jefferson's retreat home. A few weeks ago we visited his main home, Monticello. This one is closer to our house so it was an easy one hour drive with the kiddos and they both did good.

This picture is from the front:

and this one is from the back:

Olivia is now a good picture taker so Brian and I can get pictures together again!

Olivia posing for the camera:

Then yesterday we went to the local pool and both girls got in. I didn't get any pictures, but they really enjoyed the water. Alaina makes a funny laughing sound and yells when she is put in the cold water. It is too cute!

Preschool

2010-05-27T08:11:00.001-04:00

Yesterday marked the official end of the preschool year. The video is from a song the class sang at their party. Forgive the shaky footage, I was trying to hold a squirmy Alaina at the same time.

My Montage 5/27/10 at OneTrueMedia.com

2010-05-27T08:10:00.001-04:00

Make an on-line slideshow at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Sleepy Baby

2010-05-15T12:55:00.002-04:00

Brian and Olivia were doing stuff outside so Alaina was sitting by the door to watch them. When I came to check on her this is what I saw. Poor little girl must have been tired!

Strawberry Pickin'

2010-05-01T22:03:00.003-04:00

We all went strawberry picking at a local farm here today. I haven't been since I was a little kid so it was really neat to take my own. I have fond memories of eating the berries and taking your time picking out ones for your bucket. It's funny because Brian seems to remember it differently. He remembers dirt, hot sun, and hard work. I guess he probably picked a lot more berries than I ever did =) Alaina also took it easy riding on daddy's back while she took a snooze.

So now what to do with all the berries? I made strawberry pie because it is one of my favorites.

Of course Ms. Olivia helped by layering the strawberries in the pie and stirring the glaze while it thickened.

The final result:

Yum, it was good! I love warm weather and strawberries.

Updates

2010-05-01T21:42:00.004-04:00

I thought I would give some updates on everyone in the house:

Olivia is still enjoying preschool and dance class right now. They will both be over next month so were hoping to replace those with a membership to the local pool. Hoping that will keep her busy during the summer months.

Alaina's doing really well right now. She is pulling to kneel around the house, pulling to stand in her crib, and is crawling a few inches on all fours now. I never even noticed half the milestones Olivia met when she was a baby and now I have books about them. It is so incredible to see your child work at a skill ever so slowly and then accomplish it. The wait makes the reward unbelievably sweet.

Since I didn't write anything with the baby announcement I will give some details. Harvey Girl #3 is due Sept. 24. The last two have been on time so I'm hoping this one follows the trend. She looks healthy and yep, we are super excited to meet her come Sept.!

I'm busy taking care of the little ones I have as well as preparing for the new edition. My semester at school wraps up this week and I'm really looking forward to that. This has been a hectic semester, but I'm sure I'll miss it when it's over. One final paper that I'm supposed to be working on right now =) and two final exams till it's done.

As for Brian he is still enjoying work. He just finished training in a computer programming class about AutoCad. I'm not sure what that entails so I won't bother to share here. All I know is I sure am glad to see him at the end of the day!

Wordless Wednesday- Baby Girl!!!

2010-04-28T10:08:00.002-04:00

Spring is here!

2010-04-25T21:46:00.003-04:00

The weather is awesome right now and we are enjoying every bit of it. The girls both have swings outside so they are spending lots of time doing that right now. Olivia has a little disc shaped one and likes to go in very high circles on it. She's always begging me to go outside, I think she would spend all day in the yard if she could!

Alaina is finally stable enough to be in the bath without someone holding her. She likes to dive in gulping water as she goes so I'm watching her close. Olivia still loves her nightly baths, but has become very resistant to any kind of soap action. She screams enough to alert the neighbors (who are a very good distance) when it is hair washing night.

Brian moved Alaina's crib into Olivia's room a few nights ago and so far everything is going great. They were both sleeping in our room before, but Olivia couldn't let Alaina go without her so she is sleeping there now too. I just put Alaina to bed before Olivia and then they get up together around 7 am. Everyone is sleeping much better around here now =)

Olivia's new pets are a couple of caterpillars she has set up in an easter bucket. I love them as pets because no mess, they're free, and best of all no work to take care of! They are also plentiful so if one goes missing it's easily replaced. She is enjoying take care of these little creepers and spends lots of time playing with them.

The caterpillars home...

Birthday Pics

2010-04-06T20:25:00.002-04:00

I would put these pictures straight, but I don't know how. Not that computer savvy so you will have to turn you head to see them =)

Easter Egg Hunt

2010-04-03T21:26:00.003-04:00

We celebrated Easter today with baskets and an egg hunt at the church where Olivia has preschool. A wonderful part about having little girls is getting to dress them up for Easter! Olivia dyed eggs next to her one of her favorite friends from preschool Paten (little boy on the left).

After egg dying and the story about Easter it was time for egg hunting. As you can see from the bottom picture there were eggs everywhere. Olivia definitely didn't leave disappointed, she had loads of candy.

Me and Alaina enjoying the festivities.

Happy Easter everyone!

Happy 1st Birthday Alaina!

2010-04-01T19:07:00.003-04:00

A year ago today my little girl was born at 1:38 PM. It was a really happy and sad day at the same time. We were happy to welcome her into our family, but scared about her health and upcoming surgeries. One year later Alaina is doing better than I had ever thought she would before she was born. She had her annual appointment with the Down syndrome clinic and I'm happy to say she is in perfect health. It was a big sigh of relief to leave the clinic today knowing that we are pretty much done with specialists except for occasional check-ups.

As far as her motor skills go she is doing well there too. Her eating skills are always improving, she is eating some table foods and drinking from a straw regularly now. This all while she still has no teeth! She can move in and out of sit, stand with support, army crawl, and get up on all fours. We are so proud of Alaina and thank everyone for the awesome support shown to us this year! Happy 1st Birthday Alaina!

Early B-Day Party!

2010-03-28T16:57:00.003-04:00

We had Alaina's birthday party early so it could be on the weekend, the real day is on Thurs. First she started with the presents so that the frosting didn't end up all over the toys. She participated in unwrapping with a little help from Olivia. Alaina's favorite part was the paper of course.

She loved the cake and ate as much as I would give her. Alaina definitely takes after Dad and Olivia with her love of cake and all things sweet!

The look she gives me when I try to take pictures of her straight on. It's becoming increasingly difficult to take pictures of Alaina because when she sees me get the camera ready she will screw her little face up. I think she despises the flash and has decided to glare at me about it. So cute, but not very photogenic. Happy 1st Birthday to my sweet little girl!