9/4/2011 - Hyvee Tri

From Drop Box

We woke up early this morning to cheer on Gramps, Uncle Awesome and Cousin Ginny at the Hyvee Triathlon. The kids were total troopers and lasted all day long running from transition zone to transition zone and finally to the grand finale at the Iowa Capitol Building. Finn enjoyed running around the grandstand ringing the cowbells the Tyson Meats graciously provided to the fans. Super exciting to see all the finishers come in. Still not sure that I would ever want to compete in a tri. It's the swim, I just can't do it man!!

9/3/2011 - Family Bonding

From Drop Box

Today we got a chance to visit with a good majority of the Pierce side of the family. Finn enjoyed hanging out at the farmer's market with his cousins. The 3 boys are really close in age and have lots of similar interests. I wish we lived closer together. We ended the evening with a big family delicious dinner at the Waterfront Seafood restaurant.

9/2/2011 - Des Moines, IA

From Drop Box

We are thoroughly enjoying our visit to see the grandparents. Liam has been loving up on his Gramps and Nana. We explored teh East Village area of Des Moines, browsing the little boutiques and eating a nice tapas meal. The boys enjoyed a dip in the hotel pool. Liam's first time in a swimming pool was a total success. Maybe he will be the swimmer in our Future Triathlon Relay someday. Finn enjoyed playing with his boogie board and Lightning McQueen pool toys. Jess and I have been enjoying the extra arms to hold the kids and eyes to keep watch of them. I am sure that Nana and Gramps are totally loving all the grandkid time as well.

9/1/2011 - Flying the friendly skies

From Drop Box

We survived two flights with our two virtually angelic kiddos. Finn is a seasoned traveler and was perfectly sweet and obedient on both flights. He even managed to pass out for half of the 2nd fleet with no coaxing whatsoever (granted he did wake up at 3:30 this morning). Liam hardly fussed at all of the first flight. And on the second flight, fussed a bit in the beginning before passing out for most of the flight. On the descent, his ears were bothering him so a friendly older lady on the flight played with him and spent much of the last few moments simply observing her funny faces. I would call that a major success!

8/31/2011 - Lifesaver

From Drop Box

I dedicate this post to Stacy. We lean on her so much for help with the kids. And she is always there for us, when she can be. Stacy came over tonight and played with the kids and helped to clean house while we prepared for our trip to Iowa tomorrow morning. Finn adores his Auntie Stacy, even if she does force him to eat foods that he doesn't like. And Liam loves her as well. Jesse and I appreciate her so much. I doubt that she will read this post, but if she does, I hope she knows that her help and support is priceless.

8/30/2011 - 3 is the magic number

From Drop Box

My amazing little boy turned 3 today. I have learned so many things about myself and about life from Finn. I love that he is musical and loves to dance. I love that he is still a snuggle bug at 3 years old. I love that he is still a mama's boy. I love that he is a busy active boy. I love that he is opinionated and expressive with the family. I am both excited and devastated to see him growing up before my eyes.

8/29/2011 - Snuggle time

From Drop Box

Snuggling and a snack with Papa. Nothing better than a warm Finn after a long day at work.