moments of our lives

snow day

2011-02-02T20:23:00.000-05:00

What a day it was. So much snow came down through the night, about 18 inches. It was a blizzard but we missed it as it came during the night. What a sight it was to see all the white everywhere. The children where happy to be home and even better with dad around, his first snow day in 11 years.

We played outside, watch movies, played legos, ponies, read some books and manage to even do some school work and practice our music! Waht a beautiful day, the sun even came out in the afternoon. I baked some fresh bread and made some good old French Canadian Pea Soup!

Technology

2011-01-14T16:39:00.000-05:00

Wow I am amaze at how fast learn. This week I found our youngest playing a video on my Ipod all by himself.

He learned so fast. It was comical to see him so intense, concentrated and serious watching his video, and now he just grabs it and puts the video on whenever he wants, so what does that mean? Get him his own or hide mine away?

Christmas preparations and fun

2010-12-24T21:20:00.000-05:00

Our last couple days has been filled with activities and and fun times together. We went sledding, played bowling with friends, baked cookies, donuts, watched movies and played lots of games together. We cherish all these moments spent in our home for a last time at this location.

The children are soooo excited about being home with dad as Francois is off for a few days. We plan to do a few more activities, but the biggest is tomorrow as we celebrate CRHISTmas at church and watch the children sing and worship together.

So watch again in a few days to see what we get tomorrow and for presetns and what we are up to as well. in the mean time Merry Christmas to all from the Hartons.

no more

2010-12-18T15:21:00.000-05:00

No more pacifiers in our home!

We finally made it official this week. Xavier does not always like it and I can tell he is searching for them in the house when bed time comes around. We told him that Charlie ate it. I feel that I should give it back to him especially when he cries himself to sleep (which he has never done). Oh the struggle of a parent when this is the last child! I think it will all be better in a few weeks.

it's wintertime

2010-12-09T09:49:00.000-05:00

This we have gotten over 12 inches of snow and it is truly winter wonderland out by us. How did this happen so early in December?

The children sure are happy about it. For myself I guess I just wish for Christmas to come so that it can go away afterward! But I think we are in for a good winter.

Julien loves to sledding as well as Olivia. Xavier sure did not know what to do at first especially walking seemed a little challenging. But now he just loves it.

september

2010-10-01T17:04:00.000-04:00

September was a busy month in our household. It started with a storm that ripped through our neighborhood on September 2, taking down 3 big cherry trees. Then September 4 Julien turned 7 and September 13 Xavier turned 2. We also Francois and I went on an awesome trip to Montana. I will have another post for that.

Julien's treat for his birthday was to have grandma and grandpa here with us to celebrate.

Xavier loved his Birthday ice cream at Red Robbin. It was quite a treat just for him!

and of course we needed a real cake to top it off!

look who's 5

2010-07-16T14:57:00.000-04:00

Our little girl turned five this past Tuesday! what a day. We had alots of fun cooking, planning, hanging out and waiting and waiting and waiting for the friends (according to Olivia) then the rain came and it pourred for a while. With a beach theme birthday party I had palnned outdoors games and lots of fun things so scratch that and quickly printed a few coloring pages to make up . Jids had a fun time anyways. Then the rain stopped and we ate and outside we went for a few games, lots of running and then cake and ice cream.

Olivia loved her time with her friends as they played dress up and just plain had fun together!

But for me as a parents I think time is flying by way to fast and I am trying to cherish and remeber the good moments and create memories at a very fast pasted life!!!

hummmm good!

2010-07-16T14:44:00.000-04:00

Black Bean Burgers with Mango Salsa

was anew recipe for our family last week and what a hit it was. It was a real pleasure for my taste buds, so give it a try and see for yourself and it is very healthy too!

2 (15 ounces) cans black beans, rinsed and drained
3/4 cup chopped cilantro
3/4 cup monterey jack cheese
1/4 cup panko (japanese style breadcrumbs
2 tps. cumin
1 tsp. oregano
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 medium jalepeno finely chopped
2 egg whites
cooking spray
1 mango
3 Tbsp. chopped shallots
2 Tbsp. lime juice
1 avocado peeled and chopped
1 garlic clove crushed
buns and lettuce

1. preheat oven to 350F
2.place black beans in a medium bowl and mash with fork. (I used my food processor on pulse). stir in 1/2 cup cilantro and the next 7 ingredients (through egg whites)
Shape bean mixtures into 6 (1/2 inch thick) patties. arrange patties on baking sheet coated with cooking spray. Bake at 350F for 20-25 minutes turning once.
3.Combine remaining 1/4 cup cilantro, mango, and the next 4 ingredients (through garlic)in a medium bowl. Place a patty on bottom half of bun; top each with 1 lettuce leaf, 1/3 cup salsa and top with bun.
Enjoy!

***note: I did not mix the jalepeno in the bean mixture to spare the kids put put it on my burger when I served it***

our new addition

2010-06-15T14:19:00.000-04:00

Here is our new furry friend! Charlie came to our home May 25. He is a 4 years old golden retriever that is very gently and loving. He is a great family dog and loves the children. We are working on a few manors and obedience issues but he has made great progress already.

Charlie has been shave for the summer but as his hair grows we will put pictures of him later in the year.

So you may stop by for a visit and me our new very cuddly friend.

new bicycle

2010-06-13T12:01:00.001-04:00

After finishing his school year like a champ and being promoted to first grade, Julien got a new bicycle, was needed as well since his knees where almost up to the handle bar on his old one! He is so excited and proud of his hotrock 24 and the fact that it is blue.

fun at the park

2010-06-11T21:18:00.000-04:00

Took the children to the park this week to play and have fun. And I brought with me my camera and a prop and a few changes of clothes. I have been so bad lately at taking pictures that I thought I would take advantage of this nice weather to catch up on pictures. I have not done any session for Xavier's 18 months or 20 months so here it is at 21 months. Then miss Olivia in a lovely Matilda Jane outfit and none the less master Julien no special outfit but a few pictures to make his first black eye memorable!

They are growing up so fast I have a difficult time keeping up with them!

mother's day

2010-06-05T15:49:00.000-04:00

This year for mother's day I got spoiled as I got a whole weekend away with a few girlfriends. We stayed local and scrapbook for hours and hours, Friday through Sunday. It was so much fun, so here are a few of my favorite pages.

I thought that I had to post something before I get out of the habit, but besides I have not taken many pictures either which I think I will regret that later. So maybe this is the kick start for me to get going again!

Florida 2010

2010-04-24T14:57:00.000-04:00

This is late but better than never.
We have had such a nice vacation this year. The weather was beautiful and the children had so much fun. I loved soaking up the sun, sitting by the pool, reading a book, chatting with DH at night when all the house was quiet and just feeling free relax.

The children loved Sea World, the West Palm Beach Zoo, the pool and beach and of course visit from mamy and papy!

I have many favorite photos as usual so here they are.

men at work!

2010-03-25T15:06:00.004-04:00

Xavier seems to love the vacuum. Every time it is out he goes for it and demands that we turn it on and he goes to work! He is so cute.

I even myself do not mind as before I could not stand it. but since we have this new vacuum it is whole different chore.

Julien and Olivia will also vacuum their bedrooms without any complaining

haircut

2010-03-18T13:14:00.002-04:00

my baby looks a lot older now!

He did so good sitting up on the booster chair and waiting patiently.

We where ready with plenty of snack, water, milk and toys too.

It was definitely needed since the back part was below is shirt collar but I kept putting it off knowing it would change his look too much.

Growing up is so hard on the parents.

Canada!!!

2010-03-17T15:25:00.003-04:00

I am soooooo happy.

Yesterday I got a special delivery and it was Francois and I' passport.

It was so easy and quick.

Now to know we can travel seems to be a dream come true.

All I am waiting for is Xavier's passport than I am ready. Just need to find a destination and pack my things.

I feel really proud to be a Canadian, seems silly to say but really feel that it is home, with all that has been going on in our lives.

little cook

2010-03-17T15:09:00.004-04:00

Had my little one help me in the kitchen this week. He thought he was pretty funny to run away with the oven mitts. It was cute to see him walking around with them and coming to the oven looking for something to take out!

Las Vegas Febuary 2010

2010-03-10T10:04:00.005-05:00

so here is the famous sign about a mile and a half south of our Hotel. We walked there, it seemed just a block not much but turned out a little more!

here are some foutains by our hotel, it was nice to walk by it everytime we had to leave or arrive.

This is in front of the Venitian one of my favorite place.

These guys are awsome, they where so cool to let us take this picture

Again at the Venitian, but inside buy the front balcony.

Here is a good view of our place!

no luck for us, these machine where starving!

One of our favorite moment was visiting Red Rock Canyon, the views where breathtaking even if it rained, and snowed!

We had a good time, Francois was busy with his lectures during the day. But in the evenings we had a few shows to go to, walking a ton and eating some of the best food ever.

We got to talk a lot without interruption, read, sit by the pool, listen to music, watch the Olympic and even the wonderful final hockey game on the airplane as we where coming back home!

I have lots more pictures but they are frozen on my other memory card! So when we get that taken care of I should post some more fun pictures.

2010-03-08T13:00:00.003-05:00

Here is the new toy we got from our recent trip to Las Vegas. It is one of those mini video camera. Francois was the lucky winner from his conference, and he had just told me that he would be getting one for him to do work videos and that it would be handy at home. So there FREE is even better.

So I have a little testing video of Xavier not doing much but I thought it would be fun to try it. He is cruising along so well now, it is amasing to see what 2 weeks can do of walking!

2010-03-08T12:55:00.001-05:00

http://s21.photobucket.com/albums/b265/annick73/?action=view&current=Video9.flv

Valentine

2010-02-19T12:23:00.002-05:00

here is my last photo shoot of my kids! They grow up way too fast. It was lots of fun to do these picture early on a sunny Sunday morning. I had lots of fun with Olivia this time as she is normally my more difficult subject and Julien who is the easiest was my more challenging one as he could not keep his eyes open really well.

I love them so much

scrapbook week end

2010-02-02T12:29:00.004-05:00

I had the privilege to get away for a weekend and scrapbook. My favorite hobby that I don't get to do enough. It was fun to be with girlfriends and have sometime alone. I was shot of 3 pages to my goal but still I have to have fun too, can't be work.

I finished Julien's 3rd birthday which was a big goal for my and I am about to do Olivia's 2nd birthday. I am so chronological that I don't see the day when I will be caught up. Poor Xavier does not have one page done yet! Hopefully at my next get away I will work on some of his pictures too.

slime

2010-02-01T13:42:00.002-05:00

when the winter blues or boring days come around the house, it is time for something fun. so this last week we made some slime!!!

What fun the children had mixing, kneading and now playing with this fun thing!

16 months

2010-02-01T13:36:00.003-05:00

Xavier is growing and changing fast. He is moving faster around the house even if he is not walking on his own yet. He manages to get around by pushing a a toy or small chair, booster chair... He has 2 teeth and 3 more coming in.

With always a smile on his face is is starting to get that little brat grin. We love every moment of it and so so his brother and sister.

He can do some sign language for basic command, a few words such as mama, bye, duck.

Highlights of our Holidays

2010-01-06T13:21:00.008-05:00

I guess there are a lot of pictures but tha sums up our Holidays. Lots of family time, relaxing, eating and playing!

back to my hobby

2010-01-06T12:44:00.003-05:00

after 2 months of break I started scrapbooking again this week. What fun I had.

I have to say like these pages since they are so special to me. Their subjects are all close to my heart.

The page about Olivia had to be modify since I had a young artist grab some ink and started to stamp a little around my work. So I decided to stamp some more and change my original plan. I have to say I like my second outcome than what the first would of been.

the magic of a look

2009-12-15T16:33:00.006-05:00

I love these pictures I took of my children this weekend. As we went to a nice park and an old farmhouse that has been refurbish. There was some fresh snow on the ground and the light was good for pictures. To top it off there was a sweet couple who offered to take one family picture, we all look in the same direction and decent, it is a cherished one for sure.

The children where sporting the Holiday's best. To make it perfect they where in the mood for a little photo shoot.

I just love catching simple moments, smiles, joy of life or pure innocence.

cookie exchange

2009-12-07T15:40:00.003-05:00

These delicious Ginger Snap are for a fun girls night out cookie exchange that will take place tomorrow. I am so looking forward to it. Fun times, good food, and good cookies!

These have turned out great and I have made over 8 dozens so I have enough for my exchange and some for the family to enjoy!

This recipe is from my sister in law, she is the best at baking and so miss her this year for the Holiday season =0)

I love to cook and bake and this past week I have made 15 mini loaves of bread to share with friends to local shut in. What an experience that was for my kids. Next week I get to bring a few meals to a couple families and after that the preparations for the great Christmas Feast will begin!

Father & Daughter Ball

2009-12-04T20:03:00.003-05:00

Tonight Olivia went out with her daddy to a ball. She was so excited and happy to be on a special date with her father.

We had to put on her special dress, do her hair put on blush and sparkly lip gloss, and perfume. Then a few pictures I took and we can definitely see the adoration she has for her father.

This would be a special night with nice music, good food, and a chocolate fountain. Very special moments shared with just the two of them.

Booties

2009-12-02T10:34:00.002-05:00

This is what I saw this week in my kitchen, our youngest one eating under the table those great veggie booties.

All my children loved those nutritious puffed rice and corn with sprinkled spinach, kale and broccoli powder on them.

Well and they are good for you. This little guy could not get enough of them at dinner so he went back and got the back from the kitchen table!

here comes the bride

2009-11-19T09:27:00.003-05:00

Here is the new bride and groom!

This past Saturday we had some friends and their children over for an afternoon at our house. What fun we had.

Julien was the only boy besides Xavier amongst 9 girls. Julien was good to partake all their games and plans. Even as to plan and make a wedding. So he dressed up as the groom and presented us his new bride. As you can see they have the glow on their faces.

We had a good laugh and thought all their planning and parties where clever now, we'll see how that goes in 10 yrs!

playing in the leaves

2009-11-17T13:52:00.004-05:00

Just played outside to enjoy some warmer weather and beautiful sunshine before it goes and hide from us as the colder months are approaching.

The children raked a big pile of leaves while Xavier loved taking them in his hands to look and playing with them.

Of course I had to take my camera along and take a few pictures, so here are a few favorites.

First tooth

2009-11-12T16:13:00.004-05:00

Wednesday November 11 is when we saw Xavier's first tooth come out! Finally after almost 14 months he has a tooth. He is still smiley and happy as ever even though it looks and seems painful to see him bite on things. We can also see that the second tooth is not far behind, so in a week or so, maybe even less he should have another one. That will help him eat real food that is not all soft and pureed all the time!

Our baby is sure growing up.

special

2009-11-03T12:16:00.003-05:00

got to do a little scrapbooking last night and this is what I came up with.

I really like it since it is a page of 2 very special people in my life that I treasure! (hope they like it)

Then it is a little different style that was fun to explore something new!

I just remeber taking those pictures on the beach a couple of years ago and thinking how much fun they where having talking, and just sitting together. A simple moment to cherish and remember.

double page

2009-11-02T11:01:00.003-05:00

Here is my page for last week. Been working on this one for a long time. and I know it is nothing fancy, just short on time, so I have been working in little burst of time then came a total loss of inspiration. so I finally sat down and decided to finish it one night. One thing that was difficult is the fact that it is a double spread, I am not comfortable making those but since I wanted to use all of those pictures without having to make 3 or 4 different pages I combined into a double layout.

It is finish and I like it now on to a new page, much easier and simpler

another nice fall day

2009-10-27T12:42:00.004-04:00

Last Wednesday was a nice day, in the morning we had plans to go to the Children's museum in Grand Rapids, we had a great time. As we came out the weather was very nice and I took my camera for a few urban shots in the center of town. then home for a lunch, as we came home Francois was waiting for us, so we quickly ate and then of to the trails at Hemlocks crossings, we had a great time walking and looking at leaves, and of course a few more pictures. It was a great fun filled day.

sunny autumn afternoon

2009-10-17T16:25:00.007-04:00

is the perfect time to go take some pictures. The children where not to happy about it at first but as we drove and got there then it changed as they saw it was a good place to play and explore. I had seen this place hundreds of time or maybe more and never thought much of it until I started to think pictures.... Yes it was a fun place with much potential, of course I was quite limited today since I was by myself but still enjoyed myself and so did the children as we saw nice leaves, grapes, pieces of wood, and play in the water (Olivia).

I had a good time with Julien who was my most cooperative one of the gang today! then I would say Xavier was next and Olivia the challenging one. She did not want to do it and thought it was not fun, oh well it cannot be perfect, but I made the most of it.

I even got to have a few pictures of myself that are not too bad as Julien got a hold of my camera (scary) but he did a good job.

I decided to post a strange picture of Xavier that I do not like but since the chances of catching it again seems pretty slim, I went ahead and put it up.

All in all it was a good time together, of course it would of been better with daddy, so I guess we will have to do it again, maybe tomorrow as he come back home!

card production

2009-10-13T12:02:00.002-04:00

Here is what I have been up to in the last 2 weeks not much but lack of time is a big intruder these days in my life!

the kids have kept me busy with school activities and others. So this is what I have manage to produce, I made several of each of these 3 cards with all the anniversaries and birthdays coming up in my family this coming month I had to get busy.

There is more to come as I see some opportunities to scrap this week (husband out of town) during my evening hours!

1 year check up

2009-10-08T20:09:00.005-04:00

This past Monday was Xavier's 1 year check up at the doctor's office. So he measures 30 inches, weights 19 lbs, and overall healthy and doing good. Doctor is not worried by the fact that he does not have teeth, does not walk or talks!

So since Tuesday now we hear a sweet little voice saying Bye Bye as he wave around to us! And today he started standing on his own, wow and he is not afraid at all, I think that he will be walking soon, he seems eager to get moving!

So much fun to see him go around. Maybe he needed a little pressure from the doctor?

rediscovered

2009-10-03T16:43:00.004-04:00

is what we did with our family last weekend! By a beautiful sunny fall Sunday we headed south to go up Mount Baldy, but first a stop in Douglas for some pizza, one of the best I think I have had in the area for a long time. The Parthenon pizza at the Pizza joint was delicious and devoured by all. Then a stroll down main street to look at the shops and mommy took a few pictures of things and sculptures. then to Mount Baldy, but sadly it was close due to renovations so to the beach we went. It was fun but ohhh windy as you can see from our beach picture. Then to Saugatuck for a little ice cream, more window shopping and fun in the park.

It had been a long time since a relaxing visit to Douglas, before kids! But what fun we had to look at everything and watch the children look and listen to then talk! We rediscovered a little local place and saw it from a different angle.

Happy 1st Birthday Xavier

2009-09-16T15:12:00.004-04:00

this is hard to believe that a year , his first year has gone by! My baby turned 1 on Sunday. We celebrated Monday afternoon with a couple friends and our family. It was very simple and all geared toward Xavier. I did not put much work and effort into it since I had been sick and not feeling well. But it was memorable to us, he loved his cake, the food, the people and my kids had a great time trying to make Xavier blow his candle and unwrap his presents.

beach baby

2009-09-16T15:00:00.004-04:00

I love this little outfit for Xavier and I have wanted to take his picture in it since June. Never got around it but yesterday I finally made it to the State Park and decided it was going to be the day. Not quite an beach outfit but we made a special outing and had so much fun. the weather was beautiful and Xavier was all smile for the camera.

So enjoyed my time with Xavier while the other 2 children where running up and down the dunes. then we headed for the beach where we walked a little a few more shots and then some digging and sunbathing for me. Just relaxing and memorable moments. I feel those nice warm days are counted for this year!!!

first .......

2009-09-12T09:53:00.003-04:00

First day of Kindergarten for Julien, first day of pre-kindergarten for Olivia and first ride on the bus for Julien. These are a lot a new and first experiences for 2 of our children in the last 2 weeks.

I must say that they are doing very well and adapting like pros.

Julien loves going to school, even helps in the evening prepare his lunch for the next day, and he loves to ride the bus on the way home in the afternoon.

Miss Olivia could not wait any longer to start school anymore, she even forgot to say goodbye when I dropped her off the first day! And when I picked her up she said it was not long enough, those that say anything about it!!!

I am very happy and proud for them and how well they are adjusting to their new environments.

growing kids

2009-09-04T15:25:00.005-04:00

it is amazing how fast they change!

I was just watching them playing at the park and my heart started sinking as I started looking back a year or two ago how they where ans what they coul and could not do at this same park. I realised that I am losing those precious moments of them being so innocents.

Of course I love them to pieces and more everyday,but there are never going to be this day again. so I guess I have to stop telling others enjoy every moments and do it a little more myself. Maybe I realise more of this now that Julien has just finished his first weeke of Kindergarten. To have him gone for 3 full days was quiet and I could feel the difference of not having his presence in the house.

A few months back I was thinking, it willbe so good to have him in school to get a break (I thought) but truely I don't feel it much a break but more a loss. I know that he is happy and that is part of growing up. Next week Olivia will be joining the scool ranks as well, as she starts pre-kindengarten. she will be in class the same days as Julien,but morning only (thank goodness,otherwise what would I do with one child at home)

So I am now going to go play littlest petshop and enjoy hte moment!!!

6 years old

2009-09-04T15:17:00.003-04:00

Happy Birthday Julien!

but where has time gone? I can't believe it already 6, it seems that just a few months ago he came home from the hospital, but wait that was Xavier!!!

Time fly whenyou have fun and that you are on the rollercoaster ride.

This year Julien has change a lot

from playing his violin so much harmoniously,

riding his bike on two wheels,

writing all of his letters, numbers and sounding out words to write them after that,

developing his passion for fishing a little deeper,

memorising scriptures and songs,

learning to kneebooarding and swimming

.........

and I am sure that this new year ahead has many more accomplishements awaiting you Julien.

coffecake

2009-08-20T16:55:00.003-04:00

Since Monday night the kids have been asking me to bake coffeecake, blueberry to be more precise.

So today since it was a wet and gray day for the most of it I decided to use our leftover blueberries from our last picking. I am not sure what it will taste like since this is my first ever. We are patiently waiting, but it sure smells good.

just peachy!

2009-08-18T20:26:00.003-04:00

that was our day today. As we got up I was wondering what we could do besides unpacking, laundry, cleaning to have fun today. So I decided to go peach picking.

It was nice and warm. The kids had a great time picking and Xavier had a taste of fuzzy peach, he was not sure of it but then when came lunch time and that I cut it up for him he was eagerly eating it, or devouring it!

my page of the week

2009-08-01T16:05:00.001-04:00

here is what I came up with this week. I thinking a page a week is not bad at all. I am enjoying this challenge so far. I used my last photos of 2005 finally, now I have a new set of pictures of 2006 waiting for me at Sam's that I need to pick u p this week, and on to a new page. We'll see what this coming week brings since we have to much to do beside getting ready for our family camp vacation!

our household

2009-07-26T21:32:00.004-04:00

is on the move today. It started off very quiet and not much activity. Then we went

to the park and played around the house, outside, had dinner, a little ice cream and as we where to go inside for the night Olivia asked if she could ride her bike on two wheels. Francois thought lets try it if she wants to. She had try about a month ago and did not have much interest. Francois took her out and came back saying that she was doing pretty well and almost had it. then I went out with her and barely held on then let her take off on her on, she looked back at me and smiled. She was on her from then on.

Julien seeing that, I think he felt the pressure to try and within minutes he was also riding his bike on his own. The look of pride on his face was priceless.

So we did that for about 45 minutes then came in for clean up time, story time and as we are all sitting Xavier starts to crawl. So we have a lot of motion around the house now!!!

end of the day at the park

2009-07-26T16:00:00.006-04:00

that was our outing of the day. The kids had a good time plaing in the sand, going down the slide, swinging, and running up and down the dune. I took time to take a few pictures of the kids. julien also took a picure of me that was decent and one of Xavier and I, the other of Xavier and I where self-portrait.

It was nice weather until we had to go there a few sprinkles.

another page

2009-07-24T12:59:00.003-04:00

this week, as my friend again challenged me to make a page again. This is helping a lot as I am done with Olivia's first year! I am so behind but still enjoying my hobby, thats what matters the most I guess, and preserving the memories.

camping with friends

2009-07-23T22:18:00.003-04:00

We had a fun weekend with our church friends camping at the Ludington State Park. It was our firt time going on a group camping, and we had a great time. The kids had a blast being with friends all the time. A few glitches but nothing serious. Just wish we could of had warmer weather. For July we reached a high of 68 degrees during the day! So you would think mid July would be swealtering hot, but not that weekend, oh well maybe next year. Still we had a great time, good food and enjoyable company. We are ready for a repeat next year!

2 pages

2009-07-15T12:19:00.002-04:00

A friend and I gave each other a challenge to make at least one page this week! I did so last night and had a great time working and playing with my papers and embellishments. It was fun to spend some time doing something I very much enjoy by myself! I had been wanting to work on this series of 3 pictures for a long time and everything came together so quickly and easily, most of all I like the finish result.

The other page is just a funny one for me about my kids doing crazy things. Last summer I was about to light up the grill, fortunately I opened it first and this is what I found. It would of been a stick mess otherwise.

4

2009-07-13T21:50:00.003-04:00

is the age of our little Olivia today! she was so excited to have a little party with her friends she had chosen to have., all from her sabbath school class!

She wanted spaghetti and meatballs and ice cream so she had an ice cream cake from our local shop Captain Sundae.

She had fun playing, eating, unwrapping presents and eating all with her friends. It was a great little party and the weather was georgous.

8 months

2009-06-11T21:28:00.003-04:00

already our little men is well pass 8 months and much closer to 9 months. Time jsut creeped up on us this month.

Xavier accomplished a lot this month. He started clapping at the begining of the month, then waving bye bye. He loves to make a lot of noise when we talk to him. And just a few days ago he started making the fish sound. And drools a lot, and loves to have his fingers in his mouth.

He eats a ton of food, loves all fruits and veggies presented to him so far.

He loves to play peek-a-boo, take a bath and just simply tag a long wherever we go.

Anyways, we will try to keep up with it a little better in the next few months and as xavier progresses and accomplishes new things.

McQueen

2009-06-04T09:44:00.003-04:00

this is the ultimate gift Olivia could of receive from our friend a few weeks back. she is all into this character from the movie "Cars". When she got this she had to change almost immediately. To see the joy in her eyes is worth having her wear a boy's outfit and look a little tom boy for a few weeks this summer!

Derek and Xavier

2009-06-04T09:01:00.002-04:00

on their first play date about a month ago. These 2 little guys are just 10 days apart. It is fun to seem them grow and change at the same paste. they have very similar likes and dislikes.

They seem to have hit it off pretty good for a first time!

brown spot

2009-05-30T16:05:00.003-04:00

don't know if you ever notice but our little Xavier has a brown spot in the bottom of his left eye, which him very unique! Just love those pictures, he is not camera shy at all, and I love it! can you tell?

time just flies

2009-05-30T15:58:00.000-04:00

to see you grow up and change almost every day!

tulips

2009-05-30T15:54:00.004-04:00

here we are 3 weeks past Tulip time! Ii guess better late than never. We had fun hanging downtown, taking pictures, meeting friends, eating, and just being a family!

Winston Feb 14 2002- May 12 2009

2009-05-15T11:39:00.004-04:00

We had the shoc of our lives Tuesday evening when our family dog Winston died suddenly. His stomach flip and then he slowly died over the next couple of hours. My husband was with him when he took his last breath at the vet's office. I did not know any of this until I came home from an appointement and he came with his collar in his hands and said that he had died while I was gone.

He was the best dog ever, so friendly, lovable. A big gentle friend and protector to the kids.

I miss his presence in the house, I miss his wet nose rubbing my hands asking me to pet him. I miss his big brown eyes and longs sighs.

mom's tea

2009-05-08T21:33:00.003-04:00

was a special day at Julien's school this week, where each child honored their mother. It was a fun day filled with special moments. They started off with singing , memory verse devotions. then we made a craft together and ended with tea time and treats.

They had been working on all there little gifts and special attention for weeks. We first where greeted with a nice tissus paper flower, then later we where given some special tea bags and a hand made flower at the meal and just before leaving a potted plant.

It was so specila to have this day with Julien, we made a little date together and that does not happen often ,it is always daddy who takes the kids out on a date. I have to say that I was very rpoud of my little man for all of his work and effort and to see how proud he was of all the things he had prepared and worked on.

new pictures

2009-05-07T20:58:00.003-04:00

of my kids, outdoors for the first time in a looong time. We have ben enjoying the nice warmer weather in the past 2 weeks!

They are growing up so fast and changing from week to week. Love being there mother even on the tougher days, but forgetting those as much as possible and soaking in the goos and sweet moments!!!

sweet

2009-04-24T22:11:00.003-04:00

is my little Olivia these days. she is so precious, cuddly, tender and loving. she likes to hold my hand when we walk and says :"you are my friend mommy" :"do you know mommy I love you a lot"

These a just a few words that melts my heart and makes my day.

I took those pictures earlier on this week on a grey and rainy day as I was heading out the door and she wish me a good time on my date, and that she was goimg to wait for me later. How sweet is that.

Pure and simple joys of life of being a mom.

legos

2009-04-19T14:37:00.002-04:00

this is Julien favorite activity these days.

He can go on and on and build many different things.

Sometimes I wonder where he sees in what he build but today was amazing.

I was so poud of my 5 years old son!

He was able to follow 2 plans to build these 2 vehicles. the box says for 7-12 yrs old, and honestly I can't even do hafl of it.

I guess I am not lego geared =-/

But my son sure makes up for it.

Way to go Julien

butterflies

2009-04-08T15:50:00.005-04:00

we went to the Grand Rapids butterfly garden. Julien and Olivia had so much fun watching and searching for the butterflies, we saw pretty flowers, even birds and a frog!

Olivia did not want to be photograph that day so I decided to go ahead and still keep the pictures to remember what a little girl looks like when she does not want to be taken in photos.

We also stayed and had a great lunch at the cafe, the food was excellent!

bread

2009-04-03T15:43:00.003-04:00

this is a mock recipe for the famous Publix breakfast bread. Every year when we got to Florida, we buy their breakfast bread and I always wish I could make some. So this year when we got back from vacation I searched the internet and found "the recipe".

First you have to understand when it comes to baking bread I am not the best one. ButI got all my courage this morning and tried it. I have to say that I am pretty happy with the result. I have 2 nice loaf filled with nuts and dried fruits. The bread is not as dark but it is very moist and tasty. Now I'll have to let my official food testers let me know in the morning! but I think it is a keeper.

cute

2009-04-01T14:50:00.003-04:00

cute is what we think about Xavier these past months. He is so much fun. His brother and sister thinks that he is cute and funny. They love to cuddle him, kiss him or simply hug and say you are so cute! So I took these photos today as Xavier was working so hard at beeing a great model for the camera!

6 months

2009-03-27T20:58:00.002-04:00

already for little Xavier. He is just as happy all the time. He is now in control of his hands and loves to hold things to look at them and to also grab things that he then brings to his mouth. He also loves to touch our hair and pull on them especially mine and Olivia's. We started solids wich he did not care for at all. so we took a little break and now 3 weeks later he is definetly enjoying food, he knows when we sit him in the highchair and we put the bib on what he is in for and opens his mouth right away.

6 mois

2009-03-27T20:53:00.003-04:00

Xavier a un mois de plus. Il est toujours tout aussi souriant. Il aime prendre des petits jouets et les mettre dans sa bouche, ils aiment aussi les observer, il aime toucher et tirer les cheveux surtout les mien et ceux de sa soeur.

Nous avons débuté les céréales mais il faut dire que ce ne fut pas le grand succès au début. Nous avons donc pris une semaine de répits et maintenant 3 semaines plus tard, il sait quand nous lui préparons sa nourriture et il aime bien ça!

we are ready

2009-02-28T13:51:00.002-05:00

we are all packed, anxiously waiting for the time to come and get in the car. I am ready to be in florida and soak up the sun, fell the warm sand between my toes, and watch my children play in the sand and run in the water. Just some good r&r time. Will try to post something once but if not we'll do when we get back!

crop

2009-02-28T13:26:00.003-05:00

Here are some pages that I have made in the last month. It was my first time scrapping in over six months. What a fun time I had at our cropping party. I have the best husband, has he took care of the 2 older children and I took Xavier with me. So I had 2 full days of scrapbooking. I got a few pages done. My goal was 5 pages, it was easily attained and I am so glad for that. Now the problem is that I am still in the scrapping mode but no time for it!

seek & find

2009-02-17T10:21:00.001-05:00

this is a new fun game that Julien and Olivia enjoy together. We bought this big pad of pictures where they have to find the listed pictures. They can spend a good amount of time doing this. Julien also enjoys rewriting some words on his own. He is growing up way to fast!

5 months

2009-02-14T15:25:00.002-05:00

is the age of the last of the Hartons. We can't beleive that already he is that old! Always so smily and now giggly.

He still loves to be held, and even take a little snooze once in a while.

He can sit with support pretty well too, he has good control of his head.

Love when we talk to him, and he attemps to make sounds and tons of bubbles and drool.

What a joy he is to all of us.

so comfy

2009-02-14T14:58:00.004-05:00

this is what these wonderful slippers. Hence the expressions they feel like slippers. I now get it. these Haflinger are the best, so warm and comfortable.

This is the gift I received from my Valentines! It may seem a little cheesy but I am in heaven, my other one where so overdue.

The other nice feature on this is the little scrapbooking touch to the the little flourish going on is just like me, my sweet hubby just knew what I would like. Now my feet are comfortable and toasty all the time.

my boys

2009-02-12T16:25:00.002-05:00

I love to watch them when daddy comes home from work. they get all excited and are so happy to see him. daddy loves to sit with them and cath up on there day. He just wish that he had half their energy to keep up with them! Even after a long day at work he finds the time to sit, play or simply read to them. And I love to watch them.

my girl

2009-02-12T16:15:00.002-05:00

took these pictures last week also on a nice sunny afternoon. I had funn and Olivia was cooperating nicely. She is so sweet when she wants to!

Xavier

2009-02-12T14:46:00.002-05:00

I was just having fun taking pictures last week as we had a beautiful day full of sunshine. So I got my camera put it on manual with no flash and had lots of fun. I had not done that in a long time, I ended up with lots more pictures but I got to control myself a little, these are my 2 favorite one.

sunset

2009-02-12T14:41:00.002-05:00

this was taken a couple weeks ago. It is beautiful during winter on those days where we have sunshine, because the sunsets on the lake are amazing, this picture does not even get half of the beauty of it.

It was Saturday afternoon and after resting and playing some we where all bored, so I suggested that we all get in the car to see the sunset. It was great, the kids really enjoyed it and we had a good talk with them as to why we need to be thankful for rest, sabbath and our family, it kind of impressed them as we where watching the beauty of sundown!

sabbath afternoon

2009-01-31T15:05:00.002-05:00

This is what it looks like at our house when we get back from church on Sabbath. We eat and then we hang out together on the couch. the kids jump and run around while we try to catch up from the week and plan the weekend! How do they get so much energy anyways these kids? Dad looks pretty tired on these pictures, I did not even think of putting mine since I looked even worse.

It is fun just to sit together, talk, read, play a few games and try to catch a snooze when we get a few minutes or if the kids will let us. for me most of the weeks this is when I come here and do a little up date if I don't come during the week.

You are more than welcome to come and visit if you want to the door is always open for our friends.

hands

2009-01-23T13:29:00.003-05:00

this is a new favorite this week for Xavier! Those fingers and hands seem very yummy, every time we turn around he is putting them in his mouth. We have had a few episodes of gagging himself, but for the most of it he is enjoying it.

He is funny since he will give us a big grin when we pay a little attention and say this tastes good?

good reading

2009-01-19T13:59:00.003-05:00

I have not blog in a while and I do not have much to say since the weekend. So I thought I would just talk about what I have been up to in the last week or so.

this is the book that I am reading now. It is very inspiring and full of good insights. Raising kids is fun but such a big task. Many days I feel so overwhelm with the whole concept, lonely, and inadequate....

this books brings me back to the basic and what it is all about to be a mom in first place. what a privilege to be a mother. It is a true gift from God and a great privilege.

This week I am changing a few things in the routine, we will see how the kids react and if there is any changes in the future.

My favorite quote is right in the beginning of the book "prayer is the only way of becoming the mom that God wants you to be"

Maybe I'll put a little update once in a while of what this book is doing for me and my family.

the result is all about being a child after God's own heart.

4 months

2009-01-13T22:02:00.002-05:00

Days are just flying by. It seems that he should only be 3 months. Xavier is good as ever, always happy,smiling and now laughing and cooing. He loves it when we talk to him, he makes his mouth move and tongue sticks out then he starts drooling!

Sleeps like a champ, 11 hours at night and a good 3 hour nap in the afternoon (wish I could get half that some days)

Loves loves and loves to be held in our arms or to sit on our lap. He just loves to chill and look around and sometimes take a little snooze.

He makes our days brighter on these grey gloomy days of winter.

It is almost scary to see how content he is, we are going to pay for it somewhere down the line I think, but we are enjoying it for now.

look at my new hair

2009-01-08T21:07:00.002-05:00

that is what Olivia said today to her daddy as we entered his office. She is so proud of her new haircut.

I guess this is the real girl in her. She has been excited about going to get her haircut for about 2 weeks now. When we got there she right away got on the chair and waited patiently. When the stylist was done she even asked to have some styling product in her hair.

She looks so different with this new style more girl then baby look to her for sure. It is looking a lot thicker and grown up.

merry christmas & happy new year!

2009-01-03T15:14:00.004-05:00

not always easy to take a picture of my three little monkeys.

what a holiday season we had!

We want to wish you a very happy new year, may it brings you all health, joy and peace.

As we are back on track after being all the victims to a vicious cold virus, we are hoping for a great start to this new year that looks promising to us. We still enjoyed this time off as we went bowling, skating, sledding, and out to eat friends. mom and dad even got to go out on a date.

With a little guy among us to reach many milestones we are planning to keep up with our blog this year and all the other happenings in our family.

Julien is ready to head back to school,and we have started again to practice violin and he is also ready to start his lessons again.

Olivia is ready to get back to her bossy little self and have her own playtime while Julien is in school. We will also try a few violin lessons with her at home, as she wants to learn to play like her big brother.

Francois is ready to go back to a more regular and steady schedule at work. Talk and meets patients again, although I am sure he will miss being at home everyday with us for lunch and a Little afternoon nap.

As for me I am looking forward to get back to a little more of a schedule and predictable routine but not sure that it will be relaxing as it was nice to have hubby around to help. Now back to the kitchen, laundry room, the cleaning mode and running many errands.

pinball machine

2008-12-26T13:23:00.002-05:00

so here it is Francois' new toy. He has been looking for a pinball machine for a few years now but only in the past year and a half can I say that he has been serious about it. So about a month ago is when he spotted this one and made the call. Then he talked about it for a few days and then he said I am going to check it out. Then I knew it was serious, he said before leaving to go see it (with a trailer) if I get it, it will be my Christmas present. So he came back with the machine a couple hours later.

The children and I are enjoying it also. But I can say that Francois is like a little kid when he goes down to the basement saying I'm going to play a little game with a smirk on his face.

So if you happen to pass by and whant to try it you are most welcome to, we need some new names on the high score list!

christmas cookies

2008-12-26T13:07:00.002-05:00

we made our christmas cookies this year on the 23, a little late but we still enjoyed them just as much. We went with a rich butter shortbread cookie.

the kids had fun rooling the dough and cutting out little boys and girls out.

And it is sad to say but they are all gone already!

sledding

2008-12-22T22:55:00.002-05:00

this was our activity of the day. Even at a frigid 18 degrees we went out the whole family to Pigeon Creek park. It was very nice as long as we kept moving. Even Xavier came along but did not notice much of what was going on.

We went down the hill many times and when we stop it was because we where hungry otherwise we could of kept on going. Julien and Olivia had a good time.

It was good fluffy snow and once it was packed down good we where able to get some good speed and a few bumps!

Then we went out to eat for lunch at one of our favorite in town "Wild Chef" the Japanese steak house. The kids always like to watch the show as they prepare our food.

Back home for some good chilling time, drinking hot cocoa, playing a game of uno and more shoveling.

pulla

2008-12-21T20:23:00.003-05:00

Today we wanted to do outdoor activities but since it was so cold and windy we stayed inside.

So I decided to bake Finnish pulla. This is a sweet pastry bread with cardamon. It is sooooo good.

Every Christmas my lovely sister-in-law makes this, and since we are by ourselves this year I thought I would keep this tradition and make it myself with a little help from my kids.

This bread is delicious when lightly toasted and buttered either for breakfast or desert.

snow day

2008-12-21T17:17:00.003-05:00

We had a big system of snow move through our area Friday, and another one today Sunday. We are covered in snow.

Friday was the first time ever where Francois and his partners decided to close the offices. The phones kept ringing and by 8:30am half the patients had already canceled their appointments.

So we stayed inside and by 3pm when things calmed down we went out. It was Xavier first time out for more than 10 minutes and first time out in the snow. We took a little walk in the neighborhood. We had a nice neighbor friend who offered to take a family picture. This is our first one of all of us and everyone is looking in the same direction.

On the picture of Olivia you can see the blowing snow and that is nothing compare to what we are having now. It is nearly a whiteout and about a foot of snow accumulation for today! We will definitely remember this Christmas.

happy holidays

2008-12-18T21:35:00.003-05:00

Some of you have seen some of these pictures already. They are part of our Christmas card this year. Some you we may not have your address or have not gotten your card yet!

I had fun taking these pictures a few weeks back. they are growing so fast these little monsters.

We are all ready for the holidays. It will quiet this year no parties or gatherings. It will be just the 5 of us. Quaint, simple, quiet, hopefully peaceful. We will make the most of it. Fortunately, daddy will be around all the week so we can have some special family time all together.

We are planning to do many little updates here in the next week to let you know what we are up to, what we received for Christmas, cutes photos, and watch maybe for a few videos!

gingerbread house

2008-12-09T16:54:00.002-05:00

this is Julien's first gingerbread house experiment and mine also.

I went to Julien's school today and assisted him in building this gingerbread house. We had a ginger bread story, snack and the house to built. I have to say it was a lot of fun, especially eating the candy.

We had a difficult time starting but we got creative as time went on and Julien even had the idea to make a little pond in the front to the right with little red fishes in it!

The only thing is what a mess it made!

baby it is cold outside

2008-12-08T13:56:00.004-05:00

but so warm inside our house with this little guy around.

Xavier is growing, getting longer, packing on the weight, more alert each day, tons of smiles to give us, discovered his hands this weekend and even started so sweet cooing sounds.

He sure hates to get bundled up to go out. Especially when it comes the time to put his hat on. And we have to do this at least twice a day to go pick up his big brother from school. I should take a picture of him and I can guaranty you he does not look as cute and sweet. Well its tough being so little in such a harsh climate!

snowmen

2008-11-30T20:28:00.004-05:00

Here is our first snowmen of the winter, but surely not the last one. The kids had fun making this big guy. It was a nice day with a bit of sunshine. Hopefully we get more so we can have a white Christmas.

content

2008-11-11T16:23:00.005-05:00

this is how our little 9 weeks old little guy is. He is just so happy all the time. Starting to smile when we look at him, making happy sounds, moving around his little hands, and looking sweetly at us when we hold him, cause he sure loves to be held.

practice

2008-11-11T16:23:00.004-05:00

practice, practice, makes perfect. That is what Julien is going for these days as he is working very hard on his Christmas piece for his recital coming up in about a month.

Julien has been making a lot a progress in the last 4 months playing his violin. I think it now makes sense to him and he is enjoying it. He does not complain when its time to practice, and that we repeat the same piece over and over again.

I can't wait to be able to sit back and listen to him lull me with beautiful music piece from Bach or Mozart. Right now it is more screechy and sounds something like Frere Jacques, Mary had a little lamb, Twinkle twinkle little star or Hot cross bun but it works he is only 5.

first smile

2008-11-11T16:14:00.004-05:00

Last Wednesday, November 5, we where so happy to see our little boy make his first smiles for us in the early morning. I got the first one right after a feeding then we came into the kitchen to have breakfast with daddy and there again another smile for daddy.We got a few more smile throughout the day. Everyday now we get those sweet smiles, my favorites one are those side one or the crooked mouth. It is just so charming. I have had a difficult time catching them with the camera so this is why I waited to post it. So enjoy these little smiles and hope that they will brighten your day as much as it brightens ours!

these kids

2008-11-03T13:23:00.002-05:00

are my pride and joy. Every day I am thankful for them. I always dreamed that one day I would be a mommy. But I never thought it would be that rich of an experience. Even tough there challenging, frustrating, demanding and questioning moments it is well worth the ride. And with all the love that is brought from these little people you forget all the rest. I cherish these children and I try to enjoy them to the fullest every day since we never know what awaits us tomorrow. I try to forget the wining, crying, sleepless nights, at the end of the day and focus on the gift of life, joy, love and giving we share together.

fall walk

2008-10-30T20:33:00.004-04:00

We went for a nice walk this past weekend at Hemlock Crossing. We walked a mile and a half. The kids where tired after the walk but had a great time. It was nice to see the fall colors and enjoy a beautiful sunshiny day.

2008-10-24T21:07:00.004-04:00

We can't believe Xavier is almost 6 weeks old! Still such a good baby. He sleeps a lot, smiles, cuddles, a very sweet baby what! He now sleeps 6-7 hrs at night, we are so spoiled.

I am almost sad to see him grow up and to leave the newborn days behind us, as they are my most favorite moments