4 Little Monkeys!

Yep, I'm here!

2012-02-06T12:38:00.002-07:00

i have been a terrible blogger~ i usually capture a picture or 2 of the kids and put them on facebook....but seem to forget to blog. And I miss out on my blogger friends pics too by forgetting. ugh~! we miss all our playdate friends too....busy schedules and always excuses! The kids started soccer. Ella loves it, but is easily distracted. She is the only girl on the team. It's funny to watch her though. Very focused and actually ( surprisingly) good at following instructions from coach Katy! William ran his little booty off. He loved it. MJ helped out. We are so glad we got them started early. Baseball starting soon....we'll see how we manage crazy schedules. MJ is starting volleyball practice today, so we are excited to watch his games. Especially playing his 4th year. I hate even saying that. yeah for our senior. He is doing awesome. MJ has been busy with work and school and doing great at both.

Mommy and daddy are busy as usual with work....attempting nights out, but need more! We have a great sitter who loves to come hang out with the kids anytime! Thanks Joni! We enjoyed a Suns game in the suite last week and are planning a church event next week, then a night out for Bill's birthday coming up...so we are managing to make time for each other. so hard! Zarah is finally walking. She still speed crawls, but is taking a lot of steps. She is the loudest of the kids and the biggest eater. Who'd have thought she'd outeat Ella! The girls still love, and we are so blessed, going to Sues house 2 days a week while we work. William is loving preK also. He has learned so much and loves his friends and teacher. I know there is so much more to blog, but I have these darn "chores" to do....don't even get me started! I need Super Nanny/Super Maid! Couldn't be more blessed though!!!!I will try harder to capture more camera pics and keep up on my blogging. Happy Spring ! Love AZ this time of year and lots of outdoor playtime for the kids! Sigh!

Thanks Shauna for capturing their total beauty!

2011-12-29T08:15:00.008-07:00

oops ...forgot to post pic of girls and Santa

2011-12-29T07:59:00.001-07:00

Merry Christmas from the Riecke's!

2011-12-29T07:51:00.003-07:00

This was the first year that William would sit on Santa's lap. I guess he really wanted those Star Wars Legos!!!! And the kids did so great waiting 2 hours to see him!!!!! Of course the girls wanted nothing to do with him. Good thing I tortured them earlier and made them sit on his lap!
Writing his letter to Santa!
To the North Pole
Henry, our Elf on the Shelf....he kept a close eye!
I passed my CCRN and this is what Bill sent me to work...yummy! Everyone loved them!
Waiting for Santa.
She loves snuggling in her big girl bed, but don't get us started on how long it takes at night to keep her in it!!!!!
Zarah's chair!
Ella's chair!
And Bill's big chair!

Merry Christmas all. And hope you all have a healthy and happy New Year. We are so blessed!!!!!!

2011-12-07T09:53:00.001-07:00

Happy 1st birthday to my beautiful baby girl!!! We love you so much. Happy birthday to Papa in heaven. Tonight we will celebrate your birthdays with lots of cake. Yummy!!!!!!

FALL FUN

2011-11-28T13:24:00.001-07:00

PLAYING IN DADDY'S BEAUTIFUL GRASS!!!!!! LOVE FALL IN AZ!!!!

2011-11-28T13:23:00.001-07:00

My super cute ...super sweet little angel!

2011-11-28T13:20:00.000-07:00

Oops...thought I already post Halloween pictures.....a little late, but still cute!!!!!!

2011-11-28T13:18:00.001-07:00

William's school gathered lots of food to deliver to the needy! He was so proud!!!!!!

2011-11-28T13:15:00.001-07:00

Happy birthday to my beautiful, fun, energetic daughter! Ella turned 2 on Nov 18th. She had yummy cake and got lots of fun presents. Daddy brought home yummy caramel apples and pears too!

Updates

2011-10-15T13:54:00.002-07:00

So below I posted a few new blogs. This post I'll just give you a little briefing on our life.....

We are all busy as usual. You can't imagine that right?!?!?!? Working and 4 kids...nahhhh!

Bill is busy with work , but with his great job, he is able to drop off and pick up kids which helps with my schedule being 7-7. We are very blessed to have great sitters and a great school. He even gets MJ all the way to school, which is almost across state. Haha. Bill is busy with yard work, yah, I know.....surprising....There is competition on the block. Bill usually gets ours the greenest. The backyard has been his struggle, but with much determination it's looking aweome. Pics to come soon. I'll let him work a little longer. We are very blessed to have our awesome daddy who is the best!

Me...well , hmmmm. I am still busy with work. Love my job, as usual. Love my coworkers.....and now MD Anderson Cancer Center has joined us, so we are getting used to the changes. More education, which I love and new docs. Besides trying to find time to work out, I am just loving life. Watching the kids grow and change, and of course trying to learn to be more patient. Terrible 2's..... new to me! The boys kinda skipped that. Darn you Ella.....good thing she is so cute. I am trying to enjoy running. Not easy to do. Never really got into it. But loving spin at the gym. I am signed up for the PF Chang's 1/2 marathon with girls from work in January. Scary! Looking forward to the holidays. Hanging in AZ this year. Ready to start getting decorations out, which will be fun! And getting ready for the girls birthdays. Busy times!

MJ- Ahhhh, my MJ....I am in shock and sad everytime I think he is in his last year of high school. I can't believe I am old enough, no wise cracks Bill! He is ending Dive season this month awaiting Volleyball in the spring. He was captain of Dive team. so proud of him. He has been a busy kid, got his license AND got a job. WOW! He loves working. Saving up for a car. Very proud of him.

William- our little guy is so awesome. he is so loving and caring and funny too! He will tell you he loves you contstantly. He is so good with the girls. Well, tries to be. Ella thinks she's 12 , so the two of them can battle it out now and then. Zarah just hangs back and takes it all in! He is in PreK twice a week. He loves it. It's so good for him. He has made lots of new friends and loves his teacher. And they have legos, so that helps!

Ella....oh , the princess Ella. Going to be 2 in a month. And you can tell. Okay, I'm giving her a hard time. She is the cutest little thing. Her little blonde girls suck you in. She loves to baby Zarah, and wants to do EVERYTHING big brother is doing. She is definitely a daddy's girl. Loves doing anything he does. Especially if it's outside! We love our Ella! She got to go with Daddy to Oregon for 6 days! They loved having her up there and she loved it too!

and last but not least...the little blessing Zarah.....finally getting teeth. Yep, 5 in 3 weeks. Crawls around checking out what everyone is doing. Transitioning to sippy....bottle goes away at a year here. Getting close. Down to less than 2 months! Wow..... she is so mellow and so sweet. Loves to clap and wave. Love our kiddos! ALL of them~ we are so very blessed!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2011-10-15T13:49:00.001-07:00

Yep. Riesling with a screw top for Mommy. This might be my new fave. It's from Germany and perfect. It's mild and no headache in the morning....Mommy is happy!

2011-10-15T13:48:00.001-07:00

Had to upload this pic of my adorable niece Addi. I think her parent's like OSU :) Just a guess :) Love you Addison!

Keep it fair

2011-10-15T13:47:00.001-07:00

We try to keep it fair. Go Beavers AND Go Ducks! Love our Oregon schools! Mommy went to PSU and daddy went to WOSC..... maybe we better get some new jerseys!

Great speaker

2011-10-15T13:44:00.002-07:00

Last month Bill n I had date night at church. Dan Webster was a great speaker. We bought his book. I recommend checking him out!

Great cause!

2011-10-15T13:42:00.002-07:00

Last Sunday William and I walked the 5K breast cancer walk with The Stephenson's. I love seeing all the support for a great cause. The kids enjoyed "the walk" too...and the weather was perfect!!!!!! Yummy breakfast/lunch after at Cracker Barrel. Great Mommy son time....and thanks daddy for hanging back with the girls!

Misc darlings

2011-10-15T13:37:00.003-07:00

A few of my gorgeous babies. MJ, I love you......let me take your picture...haha! Senior pics are coming.....stay tuned :)

The princess and the stud!
And Ella loves to bake too. Taking the bowl from her to pour it in the pan is a little bit of a struggle though!
William was outside helping daddy in the yard, so he'd swing by Ella's window to say hi every once in awhile. They kept waiting. so cute!
I had forgotten about Zarah's adorable outfit from Mae (made by Nicole). She looks like she has a muscle t on.
William still loves to bake. He is a great helper. Now with the holidays coming , this is going to be a dangerous passion!!!!!!!
Yes, they played nice for a minute....literally!
My happy girl. Got to have a Halloween Oreo! She has about 5 teeth from what I can tell. They all came through in the last 3 weeks. Poor girl!

cuties

2011-10-15T13:36:00.000-07:00

had to steal mae's pic to post of her girls. they are so cute!

Finally!

2011-10-15T13:27:00.002-07:00

So, yes, it's been a month and a half. The hubby has been getting on me about updating the blog. He isn't on facebook, where I usually post pics, but I try to text him the pics I take on my phone....which is most pictures lately. I finally got the camera out to go to Superstition Farm. The kids had a busy morning that day, so we didn't stay too long. William had school pictures at Pre-K, which we ended up waiting an hour and a half to get to his class. Would have been fine, but you can imagine how the girls loved sitting in the stroller that long! Ugh. Here are a few pics. So glad we got to hang out with Mae and the girls. Hoping for more playdates with our play pals now that the weather is HOPEFULLY going to cool down!

2011-08-29T11:24:00.002-07:00

Big girl pullups. Okay thought she would be interested. maybe she is. I am not sure I am! Whaaaaa!
William started dance class. Loved the first day once he warmed up, then last week didn't want to go. Today he is sick, but still didn't want to go. Oh well, good thing it was a Groupon!

Lots of outdoor time in this heat. Mostly just playing in the backyard blow up to cool down and get out. Zarah would sit by the door and watch!

wheeeeee. as you see, clothes don't stay on too long!

More of August activities

2011-08-29T11:20:00.002-07:00

Embarrassed, but still can't figure out how to get these pics in order.... William started preK. A few pics.....

Loves Legos!
His Primrose backpack! Yeah!

This really did happen. Okay, for only about 5 seconds, but it happened!

Yes, we still exist

2011-08-19T08:08:00.006-07:00

Once again, with facebook, and a majority of friends and family on it, I haven't blogged much. But for the very few that aren't in the "loop" :) Here are some of my mobile uploads. I will get my camera pics downloaded next.

MJ started his senior year. Hard to believe. It makes me tear up! So proud of him.

William started pre-K! Crazy too! He loves it. He is so cute...so handsome. Such a good boy.

Ella, well Ella.... she is our little miss independent! She is so cute and so naughty , but love that naughtiness regardless!!!!!!She's talking a lot more and into EVERYTHING EVERYWHERE!

Zarah is finally up on her knees...as far as mobility, she's a scooter. But I'm not in a rush to have her roaming around and getting into everything. She is a happy girl. No teeth yet, but eating some real people food. She doesn't like baby food. Can't really blame her!!!!

The 3 amigos today! Don't they look so innocent?!?!?!?
William on his way to school...Ella loves that kid!
First day!
Watching Tom and Jerry ...... keep in mind this only lasted 20 seconds!
And she's up! But not forward :)
Loves me some buns!
Nothing like yummy oranges in the hot summer. I am so blessed all the kids love fruits and veggies!
The blow up was a God send on these hot days!
We made an attempt at going to The Arizona Grand and the water park there. Um... not the best idea. But we at least tried! Ella loved the hotel room. haaha!
And the poor baby was out. It was too hot for her. And she was a little overwhelmed by the water and all the people.
Waiter, over here!
Yep, still looking innocent!
After dance class Mommy n William had pizza together. Nothing beats one on one with the kids.
Dance class!
The gals!
Food??? sure!!!!!!
The hotel before chaos began!
I as least got to sneak in a massage! And I NEEDED it! Thanks to all the girls for going too! Sorry we didn't get too much chat time.

A few more pics....

2011-07-08T13:36:00.006-07:00

Kind of in no particular order...here are pics from our Oregon vacation. Again, I am not great at taking as many pictures as I'd like to. Had a wonderful, relaxing time. Weather was perfect for me ! Got to meet my sweet niece Addi...and see our nephew baby Jared. Kids all had a great time.

Addison. 9 weeks old. So precious!
Bill and I had my cousin Dena's wedding.
Cousins Kristi and Patrice...me, my sis. All of us a year apart.
Me and my beautiful sister.
Baptized Zarah. She was an angel. Godfather MJ and Godmother Barb. Don't know why I don't have pics of Jared. He got baptized too. Sarah will have to post some I can steal!
Zarah and Godmommy Aunti Barbi.
MJ really cleans up well :)

The girls....
Super Dad and Super kid. The best Daddy ever!
Grampa and Daddy with the babes on Father's Day at Grampas
Look how pretty....the beach too...haha....
Just to give you an idea of the wind.

Thought this was funny. He really loves his mommy!
Whimps...haha.... Auntie Shea Shea and Ella all wrapped up.

Love this ..hhaahhhaa..
William insisted that he have this hat. Daddy was a sucker.
I think the boys were all beached out.
Ella and Jared. 4 days apart.
Hoppin' on Gramma

Slooooooow.....

2011-07-08T13:28:00.002-07:00

I have been slow to blog. Between work and the kids, it's something I keep fogetting to do. Here are a few pics of the kids in Oregon.

Ella wouldn't stand still, so this is as good as that got. My sisters kids were at least focused. Haha!
At least she's cute....cuz she's definitely sassy!
The teen.....
Beautiful Addi. My sister's baby girl.

Summer's here.

2011-06-04T12:49:00.003-07:00

Yes, Misty, I'm out here!

2011-06-04T08:22:00.006-07:00

Yes, we are all still around. I have just been so busy....can't imagine why! haha. Not a lot new in our lives. Healthy and happy. Have our jobs and our health. Our kids are great. Growing too fast...but that's the extent of it :) We were honored to go to DC to the Fallen officer memorial. It was sad, yet amazing. We are grateful for the men and women who have given their lives. Here are a few pics of the trip.

Pentagon 9/11 memorial
Me at the Smithsonian with Bill.
Me and the Wright Brothers.
Yep, I'm the new Obama.
The Memorial at the Capitol.
So sad. So amazing. So overwhelming.

Lincoln Memorial.
Vietnam Wall.
Changing of the guard at Arlington National Cemetary. Very cool!
Finally figured out the metro.When it was actually working.
Candlelight vigil and Fallen officers wall.
Sketching Carlos' name off the wall.
An amazing man!
Fallen officers week in DC.

Very cool. Rides every year to the Memorial thousands of miles!
Sherry and I in DC touring The Capitol.

The Almighty king. Or so he thinks!
Pretty Sherry!
Good bye for Bernadette!

I'm the Mother of the Year!

2011-04-28T21:36:00.001-07:00

William decided he didn't want anything to do with Mr. Easter Bunny, although it was his idea to go....Zarah fell asleep...and this is what the tough girl did :) Priceless!!!!!!!!!!! See Mae's blog for her Mother of the Year photo! Can't wait to do it again next year!!! Oh, wait.... 8 more months til Santa...buahahahaha!!!!!!!

Too much sugar!

2011-04-28T21:35:00.000-07:00

More Easter fun!

2011-04-28T21:33:00.000-07:00

All my cute little bunnies!

2011-04-28T21:29:00.001-07:00

2011-04-22T12:23:00.002-07:00

William being funny with Zarah's hat.....
my little Zarah sunshine!
THe kids helping me plant some flowers
ohoh!
Ella playing in Zarah's seat. William in Ella's seat... Zarah wondering what the heck is going on....it's a free for all around her. Especially when you're a cowboy!

2011-04-22T12:16:00.002-07:00

Love playdates. It needs to stay cool though....not ready for summer!!!!!!

Alexis is smart. She found a seat to chill in!
Brooklyn and Will relaxing while Ella runs around.
My cutie patootie!
The dare deviless!

I didn't get pics AGAIN of all the kids! Sorry Amaya you little angel face! We love you!

2011-04-22T12:05:00.002-07:00

Love little feet
and even bigger little feet ...(Ella loves to get her toes painted)!
Me n my girls...yes, Daddy has a light saber!
Peek a boo Daddy!
Daddy and his silly girls!

Happy birthday MJ!

2011-04-22T11:55:00.002-07:00

When MJ was just a little guy.....
My handsome big guy!
Yep...forgot my camera at the BBQ! So this is the cake MJ got that William made for him. Plus MJ doesn't like me to take his pictures! Happy Birthday to MJ on April 1st!!!!!!!!!We all love you so much!

We love our playdates!!!!!

2011-04-05T11:40:00.003-07:00

Thanks Erin for having us over to celebrate Maxdyn's birthday! We had a great time and the kids loved making a mess!!!! The birthday girl !

Ellie and Ella playing in the kitchen

The famous Jax!

Will loved Jaxon's train table!

Hi Alexis!

Ella doing what she does best! Climbing!

I once again didn't get pictures of everyone! I am so bad about taking pictures! Can't wait til next big girl time. But looking even more forward to Mommy's night out one of these nights!

Happy birthday baby boy!

2011-03-31T10:11:00.002-07:00

Happy birthday to my wonderful son William Harlow Riecke III! Can you believe he is 4???? He is such an awesome kid! A great little brother and big brother too! Looooooove you guy!

Love !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Catching up

2011-03-31T09:39:00.002-07:00

I can't believe it's the end of March. Will turned 4 on the 26th and MJ will be 17 tomorrow. Craziness! William and Ella just finished their Munchkin Music class. William will start Mighty Minds in 2 weeks. Zarah is growing like a weed...well they all are. Zarah has a week til she's 4 months. She is such a sweetie. We are truely blessed with out adorable children. MJ will be finishing up his Junior year. Time to start getting serious about college/scholarships/a summer job..... yikes! He is playing mens volleyball at school. They are doing great. I don't get to watch much with work and the little kids though :( Here are a few pics to share. Off to crying babies :) Dancing in Munchkin Music..... they loved it!

Ella watching the kids play. She also loved it. Soon enough she'll be running around with them!

The 3 Bill's....Bill's dad in town for a visit.....

Riding fast and solo on his bike!

A couple of the kiddos with their St Paddies Day shirts. Uh, one isn't too happy about it.

2011-03-07T21:30:00.001-07:00

Happy birthday daddy cookies are in the oven. Do you think they were a little impatient!??!?!

Happy birthday daddy on March 1st. We love you so much!

Munchkin Music

2011-03-07T21:26:00.002-07:00

The only class for both William and Ella that fit their ages and my schedule was Munchkin Music. They love it. The teacher is sweet and fun. Here are my little munchkins!

He loved the cymbals...me, not so much!

Ella and the ribbons!

Zarah watching the munchkins.

My little cuties. Ella stole the teachers mouse puppet right when she met her! ohoh!

SNOW DAY!

2011-03-07T21:17:00.002-07:00

WE DROVE TO THE SNOW LAST WEEKEND. IT WAS SO PRETTY AND WILLIAM LOVED IT. ELLA WASN'T QUITE SURE WHAT TO THINK OF IT! ZARAH STAYED IN THE CAR. NOT OFTEN DO WE GET TO SEE SNOW IN AZ!!

MY CUTE LITTLE GUY!

FOOTPRINTS :)

ELLA COULDN'T EVEN MOVE. IT WAS SO CUTE!

MOUNTAINS ON THE WAY

WATCH OUT MOM!

UH, I'M COLD. LET'S GET OUTTA HERE!

ME N MY GIRL!

SNOW ANGEL DADDY!

I'LL SAVE YOU SISSY!

ZARAH STILL DRESSED FOR THE OCCASSION.

MJ WAS A PARTY POOPER AND WANTED TO STAY HOME AND SLEEP IN. MAYBE NEXT TIME :)

THANKS DADDY FOR THE PLAYDAY!

Boys!

2011-02-21T15:23:00.003-07:00

He pushed her around in her new purple convertible...pic in last blog post shows how much she loved it. Thanks William for putting her to sleep!

He doesn't like me to take his picture! So I guess this is as good as I get! I know he really loves his Mommy!

Also girls got their shots today. I am soooo glad Daddy was able to come to the doctor with us. Thanks Dada! I don't think I could have done it alone! Then Daddy took us to lunch! Ahhh .... my Mexican food fix! And good thing it's a holiday. MJ was home to hang with his little bro!

Ella is our tall model ... 15 months... 31 inches ( 75th %), 21 lbs. 8 oz. ( 25th %). Zarah, our perfect baby.... 2 and a 1/2 months.... 22 3/4 inches ( 50th %) and 11 lbs. 10 oz. ( 50th %). Right on girls! Sorry for the shots. You'll pay me back someday!

2011-02-21T15:20:00.002-07:00

Pics a little out of order, but trying to get my kids to hold still, or should I say KID ..... well, you get the idea! And Zarah got her Bumbo today and loved it. Didn't take long and she was out :) So cute! And as you can see she likes to sleep anywhere...including in mommy's hand! Love my kids!!!!!!

Surprise!

2011-02-21T15:18:00.001-07:00

I surprised Bill with this early birthday present! Surprise! Love you husband!

Oregon

2011-02-21T15:15:00.002-07:00

A quick Oregon weekend trip......

Zarah in my nephew's swing....he is now 16... it still swings :)

Loved watching my niece Haylee play basketball. The Krunch rocked!

Smoking a breadstick along with my Cosmo!

And the preggo smoking her breadstick.

Me and my sis!

February in AZ

2011-02-21T15:12:00.001-07:00

Bill and I went on a beautiful Harley ride!

Hangin' out in the desert.

My girls!

My boys!

And my girly jock!

Please don't text and drive!

2011-02-01T10:33:00.001-07:00

Bill forwarded this to me this morning. We also watched Extreme Home Makeover the other night and it was about a girl who was killed due to texting while driving. I admit, occassionally I do it.... I pledge NOT to anymore! You think, "oh if I just send a quick message", or "if I just read it really quickly". Very heartbreaking to hear these stories! Please don't text and drive!

~ I really am innocent~

2011-01-31T13:14:00.003-07:00

Uh, yah he fell out of bed. ...that's it...haaha...unfortunately he really did fall out of bed. Bill said he heard him scream and went in and this is what the end product was. He was appartantly looking for his juice on his nightstand. Whoops!

And this one scratched herself. Hope it doesn't scar~

I won't even post pics of Ella and her battle wounds! She's indestructable!

They really do love each other!

2011-01-31T12:32:00.002-07:00

Well sometimes there's love.....

And sometimes it's funny to punch him in the face. Usually he's a good sport!

And this would be toothpaste~!

Yah, she looks so innocent.

And this would be peanut butter and jelly~

A life in the day of me~

I love big people!

2011-01-25T14:27:00.004-07:00

I love playdates. I love big people!

There's something about Mary!

I love this little dude!

Brooklyn had to be rescued a few times! She's a stunt woman!

Mom's n babes!

Love my helpers!

Misty made it with the boys! Yeah! And soon to add a girl!

I think Mae drugs Alexis. She is so good!

My little dirt digger!

William loved feeding the ducks!

2011-01-21T08:56:00.003-07:00

The many faces of Zarah.....

And my cute curly haired Ella......

And my smiley boy William!

I think she thinks she's going somewhere. She went and got her hat and backpack. Maybe we should get out more!

And Zarah and her daddy snuggling....

I'm missing pics of the teen. I'll see if he'll let me get some today. I may have to do it when he's least expecting it!

2011-01-21T08:53:00.002-07:00

Okay, got my trenta. Just to say I did. I only drank half, although I could have drank the whole thing! I guess it's only in a few states right now, but will go nationwide in May...for those of you who don't know what it is, it's a 31 ounce coffee at Starbucks! Youza. Also Starbucks is doing online/mobile pay ahead. Yes, you can pay for your coffee ahead of time and it will be ready when you get there! Guess I won't try to quit my habit yet! Yuuuuumy!

2011-01-18T09:55:00.002-07:00

A weekend of family and birthdays.....

The kids loved having cousin Haylee here to play with them!

Love Ellies hair in the bounce house!

My adorable little jumper!

he sick birthday girl with her gramma. Sorry Alexis!

Ella on the farm with her auntie and cousin

Zarah with Auntie Barbi and Haylee...and soon to be another cousin for Zarah to pick on...coming around May 1st~

Daddy and his little helper. Going to put the crib together for Zarah!

My "hint" from the hubby. Actually I enjoyed it. It's a kettlebell workout. Bill has been doing workouts with kettlebells for awhile. I guess it's my turn to get into shape!

2011-01-10T11:52:00.002-07:00

Go Ducks! We usually root for the Beavers, not that Bill nor I went to either. Bill went to Western Oregon and I went to Portland State, but are proud of any Oregon team making it to the National's! Yeah for Oregon!

Sorry, but I have the cutest kids. Don't think I have anything Oregon for Zarah, so will work on something for her for tonight.

My little cutey in pink. She LOVES being outside. Especially with Daddy!

Bill ran in the "Run to Remember" honoring fallen officers, in honor of our friend Detective Carlos Ledesma. Bill has been fighting a cold, so very proud of him! Maybe next year I'll do it with the kids, but couldn't bring myself to take them all out.

We miss you Carlos!

Family

2011-01-10T11:38:00.004-07:00

Here are the family photos that my wonderful, talented friend Alex took. We will we sending out holiday cards, but who knows how long that will take me! So here is a sneak peak! Thanks Alex!!

Zarah Jean-Marie

William Harlow III

My gorgeous kids!

Elizabeth "Ella" Ann

My beautiful family! We are so blessed!

Anjee and Bill....I love this man! My hero...wonderful father and husband!!!!!!!!!!

Picture thief!

2011-01-05T10:55:00.002-07:00

Okay, so I stole a few pics off Mae's blog. She was the only responsible one with batteries in her camera! Thanks Mae! Happy Birthday Ellie!

William ( Not allowed to use Will anymore on the blog...promised my husband) and Brooklyn

And I HAD to post this one! Brett, our big kid!

Happy Birthday Ellie

2011-01-04T10:05:00.002-07:00

I am terrible. Went to Ellie's 3rd birthday party at Pump It Up and didn't get a picture of Ellie! My battery died on my camera. I did get a few of my kids. Haha. Thanks for the great party Joo and James! Ella managed to get a fat lip and bloody nose in the lobby before we even entered the bounce rooms. Good thing she's one tough cookie! We love you little Ella!

Not phased at all by the face injury!

Will, my little jumping machine!

Ella figuring out how to "love" and not hit. I still don't trust her though! She can be a little demon :)

And the fat lip! It's the in thing Ella!

And Daddy with his little turkeys! Love them all! And the missing big un and lil' un too!

Just a few pics......

2010-12-30T09:37:00.002-07:00

Cute new sockies from Auntie Barbi!

Juicy outfit from Aunt Shea Shea.She has such stylin' Aunties!

This is Zarah's rocker pose. She's ready for some good concerts with daddy! Bring on The Stones!

Now, I had to capture this moment! It only lasted about a minute, but I had to take that moment of peace in!

Happy Holidays!

2010-12-28T11:04:00.007-07:00

Have a quick moment to upload some pictures to the blog. Bill went back to work today so I'm on my own! Scary. haha. I think I'll manage. (as long as I have my caffeine)! We have been very blessed this holiday season. Welcoming Zarah and having lots of happiness and our health. Nana and Shea were here to help out and Daddy was able to take time off too. William and Ella love having their baby sister and Ella is starting to understand she has to "love" her not hit her. Bill and I dealt with stomach bugs ....his worse than mine. We ended up in the ER on Christmas Eve with his pain. Poor guy. They gave him some fluids and checked his labs. Took a few days to recover. We managed to make it home to wrap presents and put William's bike together. Santa was very good this year. The kids had a great time. Well, as you can see the teen was a teen. Not so excited for "Santa". But we still kept him :)
Looking forward to Auntie Barbi and Haylee coming in a couple weeks. And seeing my sister's baby bump. They are having a girl. We are so excited for little Addison Jones to arrive in the spring!
I'm sure I have so much more to write about but duty calls! I think Zarah got a touch of our bug. Poor little girl. Again we are so blessed! Happy holidays and here is to a wonderful 2011!

Daddy and his girls!

Daddy and his little bugs!

MJ playing with William and Ella. Ella can't get enough! MJ is such a good big brother!

Brooklyn came for a visit and got to snuggle our bug. William is just looking on to make sure his little sis is okay!

Brooklyn and WIlliam watching Daddy's new cool train. Brooklyn especially loved it!

Someone really loved their ice cream!

The little ones watching the caged sister.

William and his little sissies!

Aunt Shea and Zarah

Making gingerbread cookies

He can't get enough of his little piggy. Notice her peanut head!

Nana and the little cutie

Tried to get a decent pic of our house, but the flash on my camera was awful and it was raining! We did get a new video camera though, so maybe I'll start using that for my camera too!

Christmas morning attack of the sister!

Our little Christmas angel!

Really the teen was excited. haha! At least I got him out of bed!

William and his Spiderman bike. I think Ella might like it more!

Ella got her bike too! She is such a cutie!

Really he did like his Cars snuggie! But we think a little tummy bug got him too!

I really hate getting my picute taken but I really do exist! We plan on getting family pics soon!

And she's on the run. She used to hate shoes but now she grabs her shoes and wants to head outside. She loves to run and play. She falls and crashes without a complaint! That's our tough little girl!

Our beautiful baby girl!

2010-12-19T12:11:00.002-07:00

Thank you Alex for capturing the beauty in our new baby girl! We are so blessed!

Welcome our nephew Jared Thomas!

2010-12-09T23:22:00.002-07:00

How could I go to bed without blogging about little JT. He was born December 3rd after a long wait and a little scare...but he is fine...thank you God! Can't wait to meet the little guy...well, not so little...poor Sarah...he weighed almost 10 lbs! But he is home now and they are one happy family!

Welcome Zarah Jean-Marie Riecke

2010-12-09T23:11:00.004-07:00

Okay, so these pics are out of order. Don't know why I always do that...and it's too late and I"m too tired to fix it :)
Notice name change for those that don't know. We were blessed with our little angel on Tuesday December 7th at 9:15am. We were hoping for that day since that is Bill's grandfather Gene's birthday. He passed away a couple months ago. In his honor, and we believe doing of the birth of his great granddaughter on his day, we added Jean to her middle name. We couldn't be happier and more blessed!
Zarah weighed in at a whopping 6 lbs 11 oz...for us that is super tiny! Ella was 7.14 in comparison. She has lots of dark hair, also not like the others. She definitely has the "Riecke look". I really did birth these children!
So we are home now. Everyone is healthy and happy...getting ready for Christmas. Aunt Shea is coming Sunday, Nana on Wednesday...Aunt Barbi and Haylee mid January. Can't wait. So now off for some sleep. Will get more pics posted soon. Excuse there not being any of Ella...see gate photo. I will definitely try to get her to hold still NICELY tomorrow! God bless!

A few pics to start off the holiday season!

2010-12-05T16:51:00.003-07:00

After chocolate chip Mickey Mouse pancakes! Happy kids!

Ready to decorate the tree!

My babies!

We had to pretend it was cold out! We did pick an Oregon tree though!

Looking for the perfect tree! More pics to come. Just didn't want to get too behind...JUST in case Zarah decides to ever come out! :)

2010-12-02T09:33:00.001-07:00

Yep...we're full term. Come on Zarah...we'll take you anytime now :)

Happy Holidays from us silly folk!

2010-12-02T09:25:00.002-07:00

Personalize funny videos and birthday eCards at JibJab!

3 blog posts in one day!

2010-11-29T19:38:00.002-07:00

Went to Dr. today . Checked me out. Dilated to 3 cm and effaced 70 percent. So anytime now I'm ready. Going to try to work the next couple days and see if I can get her goin!! I'm staying busy around the house. Not ready yet, but Daddy hopefully will have it all ready for her this week....just in case. I'm still sore in my hips and pelvis, but I'm not ready to stop yet! Unfortunately Connie and Shea won't be here for a couple weeks, but they will at leastbe there for Sarah ( Bill's sister)'s baby. She is past due. Come on Sarah, we want to see baby Jared! Okay, time to get the house picked up and kids to bed. Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving! I worked and our wonderful friends The Stephenson's had Bill and the kids over! We are so blessed!

Pictures by Shauna

2010-11-29T19:26:00.003-07:00

My beautiful little girl is ONE!

2010-11-29T19:21:00.003-07:00

Alex and Olivia!

My adorable baby girl~

Big brother helping out!

Our Mae Mae and "shesus"

Happy birthday beautiful angel. We love you so much!

I know, I know....she turned ONE almost 2 weeks ago...I'm a little slow! Here are a few pics. Wonderful turnout of great friends. Also our talented neighbor took pictures of her the week before. Thanks everyone. We are so blessed!

2010-11-10T07:50:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday USMC! And thank you to my wonderful husband for being an amazing Marine, father and husband. We love you so much!!!!!!! You will forever be our hero!

2010-11-01T14:44:00.003-07:00

Here are a few pics from Halloween. The kids loved it. We made it around the block in about an hour. Lots of cute costumes for the kids to be in awe of. MJ handed out candy in the driveway, then we sat outside for awhile and Will handed out candy. He loved doing that. We had lots left this year, but still felt like we had a lot of kids. So lots of chocolate to take to work tomorrow :)

Some pics before I post more after tonight.

2010-10-31T10:46:00.004-07:00

Will and Ella had a halloween party Friday morning. So glad all the kiddos could come...and we missed the ones that couldn't! The kids had a great time and enjoys LOTS of sugar! Here are a few pics. Soooo cute. I love Halloween!

Ellie! Who came with Mom and Dad.....James, you're a trooper!

My little batgirl on the lookout!

beautiful Maxden and her beautiful mommy. Glad you made it even though I know you were sore !

Sami being shy. Didn't take long for her to warm up though!

The cutest cheeseburger ever! Olivia!

Princesses Brooklyn and Amaya.

My little superheroes. I'm hoping tonight to get some pics of them BOTH looking at me !

Tinkerbell Sophie!

And her sister Snow White Kate!

The most adorable 4 month old chili pepper and Mommy Bree!

Mae Mae and her little crab. We love you Alexis even though you couldn't stand us! Haha!

Batgirl again.

And my cute little batman!

Okay, so hope to get some cute pics tonight. Hope I can keep up with the kids. I think Bill will have to pull me in the wagon! Dr appt tomorrow. On week 33! Counting down! Can't believe next Halloween I have to dress 3 little cuties to dress up! yikes! Hope you all have a safe and super fun Halloween tonight. Don't forget to post pics !

Finishing up week 32 this week

2010-10-26T18:26:00.004-07:00

Just an update on Zarah's size. I am counting down now. Next doctor appt. on Monday Nov 1st. I am miserable, yet TRY not to complain. Not ready to quit working yet. Get my pelvic (SI) belt tomorrow and hope that gives me some relief! Everyone I work with is so awesome and they spoil me rotten. So I am going to keep on truckin'! So that's my little update to just let you all know I am still mobile :) Awaiting on our little Christmas angel! Can't wait to meet you Zarah Marie!

2010-10-24T18:32:00.002-07:00

Happy Pre Halloween. Spent the cool morning at Superstition Farms. The kids fed the animals in the petting zoo. Ella was into everything, including eating the animal food and rocks. Will and MJ painted a black and white pumpkin. I waddled around trying to keep up. We chose the small farm because I don't think I could make it in the bigger ones. It was exhausting. haha. So here are a few of the pics of my cutie patooties!

Just a few pics

2010-10-11T10:47:00.003-07:00

The attempt was there. I could not get them to sit still. Well, I tried to bribe Will, but his sister is waaaaay too mobile!

29th week!

2010-09-30T16:47:00.002-07:00

2010-09-30T16:38:00.002-07:00

It has come down to me labeling my children. :)

Wondering if Ella's hair will stay light??? Will it be curly or straight. I love his little curl. I can't wait til' she has hair I can play with. I'm sure she'll love it too. Haha. I remember my curly hair and snarls and how I hated getting the tangles brushed out.

Wheeee~

2010-09-30T16:35:00.002-07:00

Wheeeeee...MJ had a great dive meet on Tues. He took second. Only missed first place by a couple points! It's so fun to watch. I know I couldn't do it! Way to go MJ!

Going through photos of Papa

2010-09-25T07:06:00.005-07:00

Bill's grampa passed away last night. Bill was just getting to the airport when he passed. I am so glad Bill is there with the family, but also so sad we aren't there with him. We are waiting to hear the plans to determine our next step. Continue to pray for Bill and his family during this difficult time.

I went through some pictures this morning to find some of Grampa. Wish I had more. Miss you Papa!

A hero

2010-09-24T19:16:00.002-07:00

In all of our lives we have a hero. Mine is my husband. And my husband's is his grandfather. Today Bill flew up to Oregon to be with him during the end of his journey. What an amazing man. Although I have only known him for 8 years, I have to say he is one of the most awesome men I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. An wonderful husband, father, grandfather and GREAT grandfather. This is a very difficult time for the family. I wish I was there to be with them....to say good bye to Papa. To be there for my husband. I was so blessed when Bill's family was brought into my life! I pray for Gramma's strength to continue her journey until she is with her soul mate again. Grampa Gene we love you so much and you will always live on as our hero!

I LOVE this picture of Connie ( Bill's mom), Carrie ( Bill's aunt) and Gene Rico....Bill's very handsome grandfather!

Bill's gramma and grampa with him when he came back from his first tour in Iraq in 2003. It's overwhelming to remember back to then. How hard it was when he was gone and how amazing it was to have him home! How proud he made and continues to make his grandfather. Bill always makes his Grampas eyes light up! I am honored to have been able to marry into a Grampa like this one! Praying for your peace and comfort today and always!

2010-09-20T21:05:00.002-07:00

Have you ever been too tired to blog? Pathetic eh? Well, that's me! Mostly due to the insomnia. And now starting to get uncomfortable. I could complain about all the aches and pains, but I am so blessed, so I won't :) Here are a few recent pics that I found the energy to take and upload. Haha. Kids are great.....life is great....what else could I ask for :)

Ella is all over the place ....running all around. She loves to wave, laugh, kiss, high five. She also has a VERY high pitched scream...not a cry...a SCREEEEEAAAAMMMM!!! Yikes...is this what I'm in for? She is so adorable toddling around it's hard to get too annoyed :) She is also my "put everything in my mouth" baby! You have to watch her 24/7! The boys weren't like that. Again, in for it!

MJ is continuing to stay busy with school and dive . He is an awesome kid. He is so good with his little brother and sister...I know I say that a lot, but he really is! So proud of him. Might even have him talked into coming to Oregon with us for college. He wants to do Broadcast Journalism and ASU has one of the best programs, so we'll see. Go Ducks!

This is my little cowboy. He is so sweet! He loves to play, sing, dance. He loooooves his baby sister. Even Zarah. He talks to my belly and says "I"m your big brother. I love you so much". He is excited for his Christmas baby to come. Again, I am super blessed with these awesome big brother boys I have!

Got the kids their costumes today. Ella loves her bucket. Just wait til she gets candy in it! She is also my eater! She will eat all day if we let her. She loves just about anything. I guess that's a good thing :O)

And our little Zarah is growing growing growing. I am in week 27 now. Counting down! She is VERY active. I don't think she sleeps! Reminds me a lot of my pregnancy with Ella. Oh Oh..... 2 of them! Should I just get the xanax prescription now? It will be so much fun. And believe it or not, I'm looking forward to a new baby in the house. Ella didn't seem to stay my baby very long. She is so independent and more like my little girl now. Whaaaaaaaaa! So maybe Zarah will stay my baby for awhile :) Anyway, all I know is we are such a blessed family! God is good.

Cooler mornings!

2010-08-29T14:29:00.003-07:00

What a pretty morning we had this morning here. It was in the low 80's so we took the kids outside for a little bit. We aren't getting too excited, it's supposed to be back up to 110 by Thursday. Yuck...but not much longer it will be nice 24/7 and we can have lots of outdoor time again! So here are a few pics of Will pulling Ella in the wagon. I couldn't for the life of me get them to both look at me at the same time. So this is as good as it got ...still so cute! God bless you all on this beautiful Sunday! Love from The Riecke's ( and our MJ too :)

Morning peek-a-boo and coffee

2010-08-27T08:23:00.004-07:00

YUUUUMMMMM!!!!!!!!! I was fairly good and only drank about 1/4 of it. Sorry Zarah!

Where are you bro?

I see you!

You're funnnnny!

I'm a cheeseball Mom!

Unfortunately we didn't get to make it over to the Mitchell's to swim today. I didn't sleep well last night and Will was falling asleep on the way home from taking MJ to school. So of course when we got home, Will decided he wanted to get in the little pool, so maybe I'll tire him out for an early nap. BOTH of them and me too. Although I was naughty and stopped at DD and got a Coolatta! Oh well, if I can't nap, I'll be hyped up on caffeine and get the house clean. ALSO, I can officially post that my one and only little sister is PREGNANT! Due in April....so our teenie tinys will be about 4 months apart! MJ is 10 months older than my nephew Michael. Barb likes to follow in my footsteps I guess :) I am soooooo excited for Bryan and Barbi! Can't wait...so many good times to be had! There will be lots of little ones to play together and get in trouble together when we move back to Oregon in a couple years! Family rocks!

Ella's 9 month stats

2010-08-23T16:26:00.002-07:00

I forgot to update Ella's stats from her check up Friday. She is 19lbs 2oz and 27 3/4 inches long. Both are the 55th percentile. So basically perfect :) She is a peanut head, like her brother. 25th percentile for hat size :) She was a good baby. Had her iron level checked so they had to draw blood from her toe. She only cried while I was holding her leg straight, but just gave the tech a dirty look when she poked her. Okay, more later. Making turkey lasagne. Let's see if Bill notices the difference!

2010-08-21T14:57:00.003-07:00

Baby Zarah, you are the size of a large mango this week. Why is mommy the size of a large watermelon?

Backyard fun

2010-08-21T13:13:00.003-07:00

The 2 little trouble makers!

On call today, so we blew up the water slide and while Ella napped we took in a little vitamin D. Now Daddy and Will are napping and I'm up with Ella. How's that fair? Oh well, girl time!

2010-08-17T10:35:00.002-07:00

Will HAD to have the bigger kid lego set. It actually is for ages 5-12. Well, I didn't realize how TINY the pieces were....so needless to say after Will waited so patiently for daddy to get home, daddy put the truck together for him. Now, if he will follow the rules about keeping it up high so Ella can't get the little pieces if it breaks. Yikes. Organized toys today. Got rid of several "pieces" for who knows what! Ella puts EVERYTHING in her mouth so we have to be extra careful around here. I organized the pantry yesterday and went through kids clothes. Now if only I could find the energy to get into my room and start. Naaaaah!

2010-08-16T11:36:00.002-07:00

Don't forget to come out Tuesday night and have dinner at Famous Dave's to support The Ledesma Family and the families of the 2 other officers shot while protecting our community! We miss you and love you Carlos!

A few pics

2010-08-13T10:03:00.009-07:00

Here are some pics from Oregon. A little late posting. There are also on facebook, so many of you have seen them. Had a wonderful week. Great weather. Until the end of the trip, the tragedy of Carlos. Had a great turnout last night at the Tilted Kilt. Looking forward to many more fundraisers with great turnouts also . What an awesome community we live in!

These pics are a little out of order. Didn't have to patience to redo them....but nana was opening her "surprise" card here. It said "girl". None of us knew. We kept it a surprise until we got to Oregon. So it was very exciting.

Auntie Barbi with her favorite neice...well, until December, then the neices have to share their Auntie!

White pregnant girls CAN jump :)

Mommy and Auntie Shea Shea swinging the kid!

And yes, little guys can jump too! He loved the coast! It was a little cold and windy, but not bad. Next time we'll play longer!

MJ didn't go . He had "better" things to do I guess. Teenagers, not wanting to hang out with their cool parents. I don't get it :)

Daddy and his little princess!

Nana and her angels :)

Randome flower.

Come here little sea chicken. That's what daddy told him it was called.

Yummy Mo's!

Sorry, couldn't resist. When you gotta go , you gotta go!

Great Uncle Steve with his little Duck cheerleader. Thanks Steve and Chery for the cute outfits!

Gamma and her girls.

Bill with the sisters! Feel the love :)

It was just going to be a picture of Bill and I , but Will insisted!

Daddy and the princess.

Daddy and his mini me!

Me and Shea

The groovy theme party cakes for Aunt Carrie's birthday. They were groovy!
The way out birthday girl!
My kiddos :) I am so blessed!
Me and the tots....

2010-08-11T17:11:00.002-07:00

It is difficult to sit and blog. Not knowing how to explain the "pain" we have been feeling over the past 2 weeks for the loss of our friend Det. Carlos Ledesma and for my wonderful friend, his wife Sherry. I hate the cliche "life is short", but it truely is. It's also hard to find the good that came out of this tragedy, but to see how the community has come together to support Sherry and her 2 adorable boys is amazing. I know the "good" that has come out of it for me is that I DO appreciate life more, time more, my husband, my kids, everything! Carlos and Bill were work out buddies almost every morning. What a terrible loss of an amazing, dedicated man! A hero, a Marine, a police officer, a wonderful husband and father. I so many similarities in Bill in Carlos. Sherry and I used to "share" stories of our lives with our husbands almost daily. I cannot even come close to understanding how she is feeling. Sometimes I am at a loss for words for her. I feel guilty laughing with her, but her strength is amazing. I KNOW I am not as strong as her. We love you Sherry!

On a lighter note, MJ started school. Will is a terrible 3...haha...Ella is a total "toddler" at 8.5 months! Bill and I are just your typical working parents amazed by our kids everyday. MJ! A junior! Yep, I said it! A junior! Time to get serious! College is so close. He is awesome....so far, 2 days worth, he is enjoying his classes. haha. Taking an honors trig class...I can't even remember what trig is. haaaha. He is starting practice with the dive team this week. Was named captain of the team. Still no permit or license. We aren't pushing it.... shhh...don't remind him :) So proud of that kid.

Will is of course at the age that he amazes us with what comes out of his mouth. He is also super goofy! He loves to dance around. Loves loud music in the care. LOVES to torment his little sister, even though he thinks it's in a loving way :) But she definitely stands up for herself! He loves to play play play. Never sitting still. Is accelling at his letters, colors, numbers, etc. I am looking into fall recreation classes for him. Just have to pick which one. He will love it.

And last but not least, well until December, ELLA ...our baby girl, who doesn't even seem like a baby anymore. She is so "independent" and so mobile. She is taking steps and not afraid to do so. She loves to smile. Still has the same 6 teeth she has had for months. Gets into everything. Especially her brothers toys. She isn't too interested in "baby" toys. And of course she loves DVD's and cell phones. She is by far our best eater. Put it in front of her she's all over it. She waves hi, bye and night night. She gives high fives. She does "sooo big" with her arms. She hates diaper changes...well not the diaper change actually, but holding still for more than 3 seconds!She is a pretty good sleeper, but on occassion we have to let her scream herself to sleep. I hate that, but that's tough love, right??? I think it's harder on daddy than mommy. I just turn up the TV :) She's definitely her daddy's girl! Love you Ella!

And technically last but not least, Zarah Marie! Yep, it's a girl and that's the name. Bill thought of it and I agreed! My middle name is Marie, so we liked the combo. We are also naming her "after" her aunt Sarah.... we are so excited. The girls will be so close. 13 months. Just like Barb (my sister) and I. So I know what they are in for...and us too :) Lots of love and lots of fights, but the best of friends! I am in week 22. Feeling good. Getting excited. Tired a lot, but I think that may be more of the other 3 kids and work, not the pregnancy :)

Okay, well better get on with my day. I posted pics of Oregon on facebook, and will blog them soon. God speed! Love, all of us!

2010-08-02T13:24:00.002-07:00

I haven't blogged much lately. I planned on blogging about our Oregon trip and posting pictures when we got back from vacation. Unfortunately, my vacation was cut short due to the tragic death of my wonderful friend Sherry's husband, Carlos Ledesma. He was a Chandler detective. Killed during an undercover drug raid. Words cannot express the sorrow we have for Sherry and the boys. Please pray for her during this extremely, unimaginable, difficult time! We love you and miss you Carlos! You are forever our hero! Bill will miss his workout buddy who guided him to get back on track with his diet and exercise. You will NEVER be forgotten!

Happy 4th of July!

2010-07-03T11:27:00.002-07:00

First off, thank you to our military for our freedom! And of course thank you God for our health and family! Here are a few pictures from today and over the last few weeks.
My little firecrackers!

My adorable baby boy!

My beautiful angel baby girl!

Uh, need I say more!?

Will and I were outside. Ella wasn't happy to be inside, so she was pushing her face on the glass screaming.

I love this one!!!

All the kids. They were looking in the mirror dancing. MJ is so great with them. They love going in his room and bringing in their toys and making a mess :)

Enjoy your weekend. Be safe. We are off to the Marriott downtown to swim and go the Fabulous Fourth to watch fireworks. BBQ tomorrow with great friends. Pooltime/playtime Monday morning with more great friends. Then back to reality and work. Countdown is on for Oregon. 19 days! Yeah! Can't wait to get out of the heat and into cooler temps....and of course enjoy family! Happy 4th all!

Our December baby photo shoot

2010-06-25T10:04:00.005-07:00

Cuddling in "its" home.

Posing!

Hi Everyone!!!!!

Goodnight!

While I'm making chocolate chip cookies, Ella is sleeping, and Will is dancing around, I figured I'd get a few pictures of Baby Riecke on here. This was from my 12.6 week ultrasound. Baby was perfect. Jumping all around. Measuring perfect. All my blood work was normal. We can't wait til our little Christmas present arrives! Okay, back to my cookies!

Okay, a few more!

2010-06-17T19:52:00.002-07:00

There were a few more pics to download, so thought I'd share. My little pretty!

The long lashes and baby blues. And she's showing off her two teefers. There's one more on top. We'll try to capture that one later :)

Not quite sure what this look is all about...but it was a fun day :) Happy birthday Brooks!

I think she had just taken a tumble and pulled herself back up. Hence the frown. Poor dare devil!

7 months already!

2010-06-17T19:35:00.003-07:00

My baby girl is 7 months tomorrow. She thinks she's 3, along with her brother. She pulls herself up on everything and even lets go and goes from furniture to furniture. I need a little helmet for her because she bangs her head at least 10 times a day! She loves her brothers. Follows them everywhere. Will can make her do the biggest belly laughs. I love it!

Excuse the tongue. She got another tooth and that thing is always hanging out. But at least she's so cute!

I wasn't going to post this pic because I look 6 months preggo instead of 3. I ate a lot that day :) But I had to post it because the kids are so stinkin' cute!

And here's the Daddy''s new shaved head. They sure love their Daddy....and rubbing his stubbles.

And here's the little angels (uh yah :0) As much as they are naughty, they are better a million times more. Will rarely gets time out anymore. He is so loving. I come home from work and he'll ask me how my day was. The other night I got home from work and had a large mixed bouquet of flowers. I thought they were from Bill, but apparantly they were at the store and Will told Daddy he wanted to get Mommy some big flowers! The kid knows how to womanize already :) We are so blessed to have our wonderful kids. I'm listening to MJ and Will giggle in MJ's room right now. What a great 16 year old to let his little bro hang out with him!

A couple summer pics

2010-06-05T11:36:00.003-07:00

Yes, we got a pool. Haha! Hey , just his size! And he loves it! And he even got MJ to play with him!

Ahhhh. refreshing. Considering we are going to have record highs here. Ugh! Can't wait til our July Oregon trip.

Ella is completely mobile! Crawling. PUlling herself up. I think we'll have a little walker soon. She gets frustrated that she can't stand in the middle of the room. We are in trouble. She gets into all her brothers toys. Doesn't really enjoy her own! But she is a happy baby and smile and giggles lots. She still only has the same 2 teeth she's had for 3 months. She is starting to enjoy food a little more. Eating finger snacks. Likes a few foods like carrots and apples. She sleeps all night, so that's a bonus! We are so blessed.

Will is doing great. Healthy and happy. Loves his baby sister and every once in a while he kisses my belly and remembers we are having another one. He says it's a girl. Bill and I both think it's a girl too. So we'll see in about 6 weeks or so.

Bill is busy with work. Lots of it. Outside home and at home. I am working full time and of course love my job, but am sooo tired. But work even harder at home with the kids and house, that it doesn't really matter :) Life is good!

Planning out July Oregon trip. Booked tickets a while back. Finally found a large SUV available to rent. And got our tickets to Great Wolf Lodge. I can't wait! The kids are super excited. Looking forward to celebrating Aunt Carries birthday and Gramma Connie too.

MJ is out of school. DId well. Still hasn't but a lot of effort into the getting a job thing. I guess that's partly my fault . I need to get on him more and get him out there applying. He joined a club diving team, so forces him to get up early Mon thru Thurs. Today he took off to the pool with the neighbors. I really want him to get a job and learn responsibility, but also enjoy his summer. I can't believe he only has 2 years left!!!!!!!! He's an awesome kid and great big brother! Again, I am so blessed and God is so good!

Okay, off to try to sneak in a nap if I can get the kids to nap too. Daddy already beat us to it and is snoring on the couch! Hope all is well with all of you ! The Rieckes

Where's Daddy? Where's Will?

2010-05-19T14:34:00.002-07:00

Okay, it's been awhile. I haven't been feeling too great and have been busy busy! All is well here. My first dr. appt is Friday. So we'll see the surprise when I see Dr. Layton! The kids are keeping us busy, as well as our jobs. Bill is working long hours and being a great daddy. I am still working of course. Just switched over to a float staff position from a float pool position. It will be hard to have a committed schedule after 3 years of pretty much working "when I want to". Had a great trip to Palm Springs with my sister and 5 other girlfriends. Our friend Christi's parent's have a house there and were nice enough to let us take it over! The pool was wonderful! I had a relaxing, much needed weekend. Bill had Shea fly down from Oregon to help out ! Spoiled :)

Ella turned 6 months yesterday. Crawling all over. Into everything. A very happy baby! Still has her same 2 teeth she's had for 2 1/2 months. She is a pretty good eater. We haven't been too aggressive with the foods, but I guess it's time to start. She goes for her check up on the 24th, so we'll see what her stats are! She sleeps all night and is a little angel!

Will is doing great. A little clown. And 3! Enough said! He loves his little sister! Very protective of her and loves to play with her. I am hoping to get him into some sort of play class this summer. There is a sports one that sounds fun. I'd like to get him into swim lessons, but it's so hard with our schedules. I'll have to look more into it.

MJ just had his last day of school today. He's thinking about a B average. We'll see when the grades come! Going to start looking for a summer job and then get his permit at some point soon. He is an awesome big brother and big helper. The little ones love him so much!

We are looking forward to Oregon the end of July. Get out of the heat. Can't complain right now. It's in the 80's! Love it!Okay, baby fussing on lap. More updates and kids pics soon! I promise! Hugs to all and God bless!

Have to change my blog title

2010-05-01T10:13:00.003-07:00

Well, we will no longer be a "full house". Not sure which poker hand we'll be, so I guess I'll have to think of something else. We are having a baby! Yep, that's right. Laugh all you want! Talk about shock!!!!! But God has given us another blessing, so we are very happy....still shocked . haha! My due date is December 24th. My first dr appt is scheduled for May 21st. So that's our big spring news. Will is excited. Says it's a baby "sisser". I think we will keep the name secret if it's a girl. Bill came up with it and I like it, so we better use it. :) It will be quite a journey. Will keep us even more busy, but like I said, what a blessing. God sometimes has different plans than you had. I actually had already signed consent for a tubal ligation. Ooops. Guess have should have scheduled that surgery a little quicker. haaha! So we will have 3 children under the age of 4! Whooda thought!!?!?!? MJ was quite shocked of course, but he's an awesome big bro. Just more for him to love!!!!!!!! And more little siblings to look up to him! He will be the oldest of 5 now! Crazy! Good thing he's such an awesome kid! Besides , only a couple more years and he'll be off to college and can enjoy them from "afar". So back to house cleaning. Trying to get rid of the queasies. Starting already. That's the part I dread! Looking forward to tonight. Going to 2 friends graduation party. Congrats Laura and Maureen on getting your Nurse Practitioner! You are my idols! I will be the DD for the next 8 months :) And a little twist in my girls weekend in Palm Springs this month. I guess the girls will be glad to have a DD there too! Sheesh. Haha. Can't wait though! Poolside, relaxation, shopping, eating, and drinking (water of course). I guess I'll at least have sparkling water! Have a great weekend. Wish us luck :) The family of now 6!!!!

Easter and more

2010-04-11T19:29:00.003-07:00

How can this be???? Ella is big enough to sit in a high chair. I actually fed her a little bit of rice cereal. Didn't seem too interested. I'm in no rush either. Pediatrician said to wait til 6 months anyway. She seems content with just her bottles, plus it's much cleaner :)
Will's first time coloring Easter eggs. He had a great time.
Will mistook Ella for an Easter egg. Okay, her hair is coming in!!!! She is all over the place. rolls around and does the military crawl. 2 teeth! plays with toys. Is such a good baby. Sometimes sleeps through the night and if she does wake up it's for a quick snack and then right back to sleep. I'm very blessed!
Will found his Easter basket bright and early. And then hurried out to find eggs that the "bunny" hid. He did a great job and loved all the goodies.

Easter Sunday at church. What a beautiful day.

Had a fun playdate at Mae's last week. The kids are all growing so fast. I love how they have changed in how they play with each other over the years! We are so blessed to have such amazing friends!!!!!

Birthday week!

2010-04-02T09:32:00.006-07:00

Happy birthday to my boys. Will turned 3 on the 26th of March and MJ turned 16 yesterday...yes, that's what I said! 16! Scary.... considering I'm only 25! Weird how that works :) We had a great week with Nana and Shea Shea here....a wonderful birthday party with great friends. Last night we had dinner for MJ's birthday. We also had a week long celebration for them both. I love having kids with birthdays in March. The weather is so perfect! Thank you all for celebrating with us. Here are a few pics from the week. I also posted on Facebook, so excuse the duplicates!

Just a few pics today

2010-03-12T15:59:00.003-07:00

Believe it or not, Will had a fever of 105.4 again today. Dr's office said just do Motrin and watch. What the heck? They said it's most likely a virus. He has no symptoms. When his temp was up, he just seemed a little needy, but no cough, runny nose. No diarrhea. Good thing! So we'll see. It got down to 100 with Motrin (snuck in juice). Scares me. Ella is rolling over constantly. Every time I put her down on her back, she rolls onto her tummy. Then after about 5 or 10 minutes she is frustrated. She doesn't know how to get back onto her back yet. She mostly wants to crawl! I put toys out in front of her and she rocks until she can get up to them. She is pulling on her musical bear when she is in her carseat. I can't believe how fast she's growing! Sloooow down. I'm not ready! So here are a few pics from today......

Been awhile

2010-03-07T09:43:00.005-07:00

Happy Birthday to Daddy!
Good job guys!
My wonderful kids! We are so blessed. MJ is really thrilled here! :)
Ella in the big girl stroller. And her big cute bow from Alex.
Will and his little lady Brooklyn at San Tan looking at puppies.
Big girl :)

It's been awhile since I've blogged. Can't imagine why ...haha! Kids are great. Will had a fever the other night of 105.3. Talk about freaking out!?!?! But it broke with tylenol and didn't come back. So strange and scary! I guess he has a strong immune system! Bill and I are busy working. MJ busy with school work and playing volleyball. Getting ready for company for WIll's birthday. Sad he's going to be 3, but also love watching him grow up into a "big boy". He's so sweet and of course smart :) MJ is going to be 16!!! Can we not even talk about that?!??!!? No permit yet. I'm thinking when he's off for spring break. Again, Scaaaaary! Okay, off to the grocery store and then house cleaning. Good times . Happy Sunday. Looks like rain. Boooo!! Here are a few pics to share from random days and my hubbys birthday. He went to Vegas for the weekend. Then we had lunch with daddy, pizza and carrot cake for dinner. Hoping to have a date night out soon to celebrate.