BFFs

I have to dedicate this post to Dilly and his BFF Marah. I have known for a while that Dilly and Marah are great friends. She is the daughter of the wonderful woman who watches Dylan and Luke 3 days a week. Dylan has known Marah since he was 7 months old. They are very close in age, with Marah just older by about 4 months. I really just became aware of how close they were after Dilly's birthday party. When looking at the photos, I noticed that he and Marah are together in almost all the shots. I've joked for quite a while now that Marah may very well someday be his wife, or at least a girlfriend along the way... a mother can wish!!

Firehouse Fun!

For Dylan's birthday we went to the City of Woodland Fire Station #1. It was really pretty neat! I think all the kids (and parents) had fun. We got to see the fireman go down the pole, the kids got to climb in the truck and I think the best part was that they each got to spray the fire hose. I had no idea it would be so hands-on...it was great! I would recommend this for a fun, educational and cheap (it was free) birthday idea for any kid who loves fire engines. Anyway, we went back to the house for lunch (don't you know that fire fighters eat hot dogs!) and yummy cake. It was a big day, but Dylan had a lot of fun. I also enjoyed it as it wasn't quite the production (as far as planning goes) on my end.
Enjoy a slide show with photos from the day...

Three

Happy Birthday Bug!! Today you are three years old, and I still can't believe it. You're growing up so fast (too fast sometimes I think). I remember this day three years ago - we have both changed and grown so much since then. Now you are a full fledged little boy; and I am a mommy! I'm amazed by the things you do each and every day. You are sweet and playful, just down right silly a lot of the time; you are also sensitive and quite thoughtful, very aware of your surroundings; you are mischievous, independent and quite opinionated to boot. You are Dylan, my baby boy (and I know you'll tell me that you're not a baby, you're a big boy; but you will always be my baby)! I love you more than I can express in writing; the feeling just completely overwhelms my heart and body. I am so very lucky to have you and your little brother in my world; as cheesy as it sounds, you make me a better person! Happy number three my little fireman!

Hugs & Kisses, Mama

Best Buds

I had to write a short post about the sweetest friendship that has been developing over the past couple of months. Auggie (the dog) joined the Johnson family in December 2007. According to my mom, he is still a puppy. He's not a very good listener and is totally incorrigible - he just can't seem to control himself. I know part of my problem with him is that I keep comparing him to Max, but the reality is that he's just not too bright! But he is pretty cute and he LOVES the boys, especially Luke. He and Luke are truly great pals. We think he likes Luke so much because he's the only one who doesn't say "NO AUGGIE!" It's something he hears quite often from everyone else - even Dilly bosses him around. Auggie and Lukie see eye to eye (literally) and they just really get along. This photo was taken a couple of months ago, but it captures the sweet boy & doggie relationship!

Surviving the Heat!

Here are the photos I promised, from the 4th of July weekend. What better way to celebrate summer and stay cool than with watermelon, swimming pool and some fireworks! These two love playing in the water, especially when there's watermelon to be had...fun times!!

We just survived a whole week without Daddy (he was in North Carolina for work, playing golf!). Many thanks to Sitie for staying with us. We miss her a lot; but we're really glad to have Daddy home! Dylan really missed his dad, and was quite disappointed that we couldn't pick him up from the airport Sunday night (since his plane was delayed by 5 hours). Anyway,we're getting used to life back to normal.

Lukie is really growing more into a little boy every day. He and Dylan love to play together; but the fighting between them is increasing as well. Whenever Luke has something, Dylan seems to want it. It's starting to drive me crazy!! I try to let them work it out, but often have to intervene before the tears start. Luke still isn't talking too much, although he makes lots of sounds, we just don't understand him. However, he totally understands us... he nods yes and no when asked questions, and he can follow directions. He loves shoes! Whenever anyone is going outside, he runs to get his shoes, throws them on the floor and sits down for you to put them on. He also hates getting left out. Gone are the days when Daddy and Dylan, or Papa and Dylan can go anywhere leaving Lukie behind. He is now one of the boys and rightfully must be included!

We're prepping for Dilly's birthday next week, which doesn't involve too much this year. Invitations have been mailed and I just need to order (or bake) a cake. We'll be visiting the fire station and then back home for hot dogs and cake. I've decided not to do anymore big parties; they're just too much work! I'm sure this party will be just right for him and his little buddies.

I'm a Big Cow!

While watching Mickey Mouse Clubhouse the other day, Dylan turned to me and said I was like Clarabelle the cow. I responded with, "Oh really...like how??" To which he replied, "Well she's big like you, and she's a cow; she's a big cow!" Thank you Dylan, what a compliment (which I do believe is what he intended). So, I thank God he's just three and really doesn't mean what he said. I guess it's time to get to the gym!!

No pictures today because Rob took my camera to North Carolina on his golf trip. I'll update next week with some adorable watermelon/swimming pool shots - oh the joys of summertime!