Life is so busy! I always feel like I need a pause button.
We have been living in Wes's house (our house) for almost a year now. We have moved around the girl's rooms to make room for more play. They are beginning to enjoy each others company and play well. We all enjoy the space that the house brings. The summer has been a little too hot to go out in the back yard too much, but hope to start using it more soon.
Emma and Ellie are growing like beautiful Texas wildflowers. Ellie is now up to her big sister's shoulder and I am sure will pass her up in the next few years. Emma's heart continues to check out well. She had a follow up in July and is doing great. Both have a very independent spirit. We are challenged most days but find opportunities to better ourselves. Bath time is their favorite time, and bed time their least. Ellie is working on saying new words like Shoes and purse, while Emma continues to learn writing and reading. I am hoping to get updated photos of them done soon.
Josh and I are busy working away, but still find time for the occasional date night. We are making progress with our goal of being debt free in 2014. Shorter goals are our plans for our 10 year wedding anniversary. Josh and I are going to renew our vows next May. I enjoy planning another wedding, much smaller and intimate this time. Just the 2 of us! All I can say is the Chapel has been booked. Josh has an upcoming birthday in November but Austin is sure to be a mad house with the F1 races that weekend, so we plan to travel outside of Austin for his yearly birthday bash.
As for myself, Jazzercise. I have said it before, but it's good for me to say it again. This is a journey that has no end. Taking care of myself is not only better for me, but my family too. This year has been a very good reflective year. I am 29 this year, and this age has a lot of meaning for me. It is the last year of my twenties. I am sure a lot of people get here and begin to look inside. I want my 30's to be amazing though. I want to be able to live a little extra for Denise. She was almost there, my exact age now. I don't plan on going anywhere, so it is in my hands to conquer the unknown. To reach my goals, and stop looking back. I'm going forward. I'm on track and there are no signs of stopping.
The Haar Family is thankful to have such a wonderful group of family and friends to share our lives with. We appreciate everyone's love and support.
Family and love
A man of faith, a patriotic man, a loving man, a family man, a song bird. There are so many words to say about George Smith.
I have only had the chance to know George for 11 years. We ate pizza together, took trips to his land, danced at my wedding, worked puzzles in the paper, and told stories together. I have many wonderful memories with him that I call my own.
My favorite memory has to be one of the last ones that we shared. In August of 2011 for his birthday, he sang for all of us there. Most of them sang along, but I stood in awe and silence. Hanging on each note. I loved to hear him sing. I had never seen a man burst into song and sing with such passion.
As a person who married into the family I get to have a special view. It's like reading a book you never want to end. The stories have there ups and downs, and all of the characters are great. I have been able to hear Josh's stories and in more recent years have heard stories from different perspectives. One chapter has closed on the Smith family, but the book is not over. I am sure every time we get together that we will revisit the stories of George Smith.
Four is fabulous!
Emma turned 4 on Saturday the 30th. I can not believe that time has gone by so fast. Am I old enough to have a four year old? At first it was wow we made it through one year, but now four has gone by and I would love to rewind to watch her grow again. My best advice for those who are pregnant is to just hold them as much as possible. Emma still lets me hold her, but not as much as I would like. As always I like to let everyone know what we have learned about Emma this last year.
1. Food faves include Chicken and fries, chicken and rice, or noodles with cheese no sauce please.
2. Mia is her best friend and she does everything. Mia is imaginary. :)
3. Emma is a true big sister. Good or bad she still loves her little sister.
4. She is the Dancing queen.
5. Schlitterbahn is the new dino park.
6. She loves me and Daddy more than bugs.
Emma is so funny. I could go on and on about what we have learned about her. The biggest thing I have learned about myself is that I am happy to be her mommy. I look forward to the next year and what Emma has in store for us.
1. Food faves include Chicken and fries, chicken and rice, or noodles with cheese no sauce please.
2. Mia is her best friend and she does everything. Mia is imaginary. :)
3. Emma is a true big sister. Good or bad she still loves her little sister.
4. She is the Dancing queen.
5. Schlitterbahn is the new dino park.
6. She loves me and Daddy more than bugs.
Emma is so funny. I could go on and on about what we have learned about her. The biggest thing I have learned about myself is that I am happy to be her mommy. I look forward to the next year and what Emma has in store for us.
Elizabeth Denise
Our Elizabeth Denise "Ellie" will be one on June 7th. It has been an amazing year. I am so happy that we have Ellie in our lives. Here are some of the things we have learned about Ellie this year.
1. Ellie loves cuddle! Her favorite spot is on our laps or in our arms.
2. She is our serious and more quiet girl. Not all giggles like her big sister.
3. Always on the move. Play play play
4. Affectionate and caring. She sometimes cries when she sees Emma cry.
5. When she toots she giggles.
6. Favorite thing is food. You can not eat without giving her something.
Ellie is all her own girl. I am amazed at Ellie and Emma's similarities and differences. We are ready for the next year and all the love and adventures it brings with our little girl.
1. Ellie loves cuddle! Her favorite spot is on our laps or in our arms.
2. She is our serious and more quiet girl. Not all giggles like her big sister.
3. Always on the move. Play play play
4. Affectionate and caring. She sometimes cries when she sees Emma cry.
5. When she toots she giggles.
6. Favorite thing is food. You can not eat without giving her something.
Ellie is all her own girl. I am amazed at Ellie and Emma's similarities and differences. We are ready for the next year and all the love and adventures it brings with our little girl.
Tumbles and things
This year we started Emma in gymnastics. My cousins David and Chris always seemed to enjoy gymnastics. They would always tell me "It's a gymnastics thing, you wouldn't understand." Emma, and I(mostly me)had to figure this out. Emma enjoys going, and is making friends. They start each class by sitting in a circle and going over what they plan to learn. I think my favorite was emotions. It has helped Josh and I talk through what Emma is feeling. Then they move onto working through stations. Emma loves all, but I was told she has the most courage on the balance beam. She is just beginning, but we hope she loves it and stays with it. We go as a family to watch her. Ellie likes to push her face against the glass and squeal when big sister runs by.
Ellie has been working very hard on being able to keep up with Emma. She went from being really fast at crawling to walking in a blink of an eye. We all hurt when she takes a tumble, but she gets right back up. Most days she toddles down the hall after her sister and then the door shuts before she gets there, or you can here Emma telling her that's not her toy. Ah, sisters. Emma does enjoy having her around, but she is still not big on sharing everything. Ellie is also learning to climb and say words like Nana.
Josh and I had a wonderful vacation in San Francisco. We ate lots of good food, and had great beer to wash it all down. My favorite part of the whole trip was renting bikes and riding through Golden Gate park, over the Golden Gate bridge, and to Sausalito, CA. It was a beautiful day, and felt nice to ride a bike again. We were totally tourist and saw Alcatraz, Fisherman's Wharf, Ghirardelli Square, Disney Family museum, and so much more. I can't wait to go back, and suggest it to anyone going on vacation. I look forward to having a vacation with the girls soon, maybe the beach.
Sister
I think of it as a great compliment to be told I look like Denise. It's hard to hear it though. After 9 years of her being gone the place in my heart is still so raw. I think about her often and am reminded of her when Ellie smiles. They both have a dimple on their cheek when they smile. I think as time goes on it gets better. I think most everyone can relate to losing someone they love.
I miss my sister very much. I am lucky to have so many other sister's in my life to help me through this. I will think of her on Sunday, I will be upset. It's a day that doesn't get easier. It's a day that I wish could be done over. That's why I know I will be upset. No matter how much I try to only think of good things, or keep myself busy and not think about it, It will anger me that I get to be here on a day that she can't. She didn't get to see me marry Josh, meet my little girls, or see me as I am today. What I wouldn't give for a hug. A simple but sweet card in her beautiful handwriting. A secret trip together for a tattoo. it's the little things that matter. I love my sister very much. If I can't tell her, then I get to tell you.
Don't grieve for me, for now I'm free
I'm following the path God has chosen for me.
I took His hand when I heard him call;
I turned my back and left it all.
I could not stay another day,
To laugh, to love, to work or play.
Tasks left undone must stay that way;
I've now found peace at the end of day.
If my parting has left a void,
Then fill it with remembered joys.
A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss;
Oh yes, these things, I too will miss.
Be not burdened with times of sorrow
Look for the sunshine of tomorrow.
My life's been full, I savored much;
Good friends, good times, a loved ones touch.
Perhaps my time seems all to brief;
Don't lengthen your pain with undue grief.
Lift up your heart and peace to thee,
God wanted me now-He set me free.
( I'm Free Author: Shannon Lee Moseley.)
I miss my sister very much. I am lucky to have so many other sister's in my life to help me through this. I will think of her on Sunday, I will be upset. It's a day that doesn't get easier. It's a day that I wish could be done over. That's why I know I will be upset. No matter how much I try to only think of good things, or keep myself busy and not think about it, It will anger me that I get to be here on a day that she can't. She didn't get to see me marry Josh, meet my little girls, or see me as I am today. What I wouldn't give for a hug. A simple but sweet card in her beautiful handwriting. A secret trip together for a tattoo. it's the little things that matter. I love my sister very much. If I can't tell her, then I get to tell you.
Don't grieve for me, for now I'm free
I'm following the path God has chosen for me.
I took His hand when I heard him call;
I turned my back and left it all.
I could not stay another day,
To laugh, to love, to work or play.
Tasks left undone must stay that way;
I've now found peace at the end of day.
If my parting has left a void,
Then fill it with remembered joys.
A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss;
Oh yes, these things, I too will miss.
Be not burdened with times of sorrow
Look for the sunshine of tomorrow.
My life's been full, I savored much;
Good friends, good times, a loved ones touch.
Perhaps my time seems all to brief;
Don't lengthen your pain with undue grief.
Lift up your heart and peace to thee,
God wanted me now-He set me free.
( I'm Free Author: Shannon Lee Moseley.)
Dear
Dear Emma,
Have I told you how much you are loved? I look into those sweet blue eyes of yours and remember what it is like to be a kid. A world full of wonder and learning at your fingertips. You amaze me everyday with your how you are so friendly and have no fear. I want you to keep these traits.
You walked across a cattle guard yesterday, and although I flinched, you made it across just fine. You wanted the beautiful flowers on the other side because you see what so many do not. Your eyes are completely open.
Daddy and I talked on the way home from Llano about how you have grown and the world as it is today. While you and Ellie napped we discussed the story of Trayvon Martin, and how you do not carry any prejudices. We are happy to be raising you right, to love all people. You are never afraid to call someone friend.
You grow in so many ways and these are just little examples of how wonderful you are. In a few months you will be turning 4. I have been so thankful for you and the things we get to share everyday. I am proud to be your mommy. I am proud to share what a wonderful little girl you are. I don't do it enough. I love you with all of my heart, and I'll always love you more than sunshine.
Love, Mommy
Have I told you how much you are loved? I look into those sweet blue eyes of yours and remember what it is like to be a kid. A world full of wonder and learning at your fingertips. You amaze me everyday with your how you are so friendly and have no fear. I want you to keep these traits.
You walked across a cattle guard yesterday, and although I flinched, you made it across just fine. You wanted the beautiful flowers on the other side because you see what so many do not. Your eyes are completely open.
Daddy and I talked on the way home from Llano about how you have grown and the world as it is today. While you and Ellie napped we discussed the story of Trayvon Martin, and how you do not carry any prejudices. We are happy to be raising you right, to love all people. You are never afraid to call someone friend.
You grow in so many ways and these are just little examples of how wonderful you are. In a few months you will be turning 4. I have been so thankful for you and the things we get to share everyday. I am proud to be your mommy. I am proud to share what a wonderful little girl you are. I don't do it enough. I love you with all of my heart, and I'll always love you more than sunshine.
Love, Mommy
New Beginnings
As one door closes another opens. Today was Josh's last day at Central Market. After 14 years he has said goodbye to seek new opportunities. He will begin his new job tomorrow with Boundless Nutrition. We are very proud of the career he had and the hard work he put in everyday to support his family. I know he will continue to grow and work hard at his new position.
The Haar family looks forward to having weekends off together as a new perk. Josh and I have not had a regular day off together since Emma was born. It was well worth the sacrifice to have the girls cared for by mainly Josh and me. The girls will also begin a new adventure Monday as they will go to full time care. I am sure as time progresses the girls will enjoy their new surroundings, and to have both parents on the weekend.
Congrats to Josh, and wish us luck in our new endeavors!
The Haar family looks forward to having weekends off together as a new perk. Josh and I have not had a regular day off together since Emma was born. It was well worth the sacrifice to have the girls cared for by mainly Josh and me. The girls will also begin a new adventure Monday as they will go to full time care. I am sure as time progresses the girls will enjoy their new surroundings, and to have both parents on the weekend.
Congrats to Josh, and wish us luck in our new endeavors!
Jazzed
It's official! With the help of Jazzercise I have lost 20 lbs so far. I continue on my journey but know that I have reached a great milestone for myself. Jazzercise has let me have a new lease on life. Who knew 1 hour a day, 3 to 4 times a week could make me feel so much better.
I appreciate all of the support from my husband and family, the encouraging words, and the compliments. It's all so wonderful. This is not my stopping point, but a refuel for the next 20 ahead. Then to keep the weight off for the rest of my life. I don't ever want my life to be cut short here due to laziness. Here are some photos to show my journey so far!
This was taken in August before I started Jazzercise.
This was tonight after class!
I appreciate all of the support from my husband and family, the encouraging words, and the compliments. It's all so wonderful. This is not my stopping point, but a refuel for the next 20 ahead. Then to keep the weight off for the rest of my life. I don't ever want my life to be cut short here due to laziness. Here are some photos to show my journey so far!
This was taken in August before I started Jazzercise.
This was tonight after class!
Happy New Year!
The Haar family had an amazing 2011. We had our ups and downs, but I could not have asked for more. Highlights from 2011 were Ellie being born, Moving to the house, and the start of a more healthy lifestyle.
Ellie has been a big adventure for us, who knew adding one more would shake up the world so much. She finished her therapy well, and should have no lasting effects. Ellie is beginning to move around, and can be found stuck under the coffee table. She loves to watch her big sister run and play. She has her own way of telling Emma I am watching you. Ellie squeals with delight, and almost bounces off your knee. I enjoy her cuddles and smiles. The girls are so different. When Emma was this age she was loveable but much more interested in doing her own thing. Ellie just wants to be held and loved on. Her first words were Dada and she is working on others. Everyone who sees the girls say they look so much alike. I can't wait to see what Ellie does next.
Emma is always learning new things. She surprises Josh and I with new phrases and actions. My current favorite is "I win, you lose, game over." She is sassy, but sometimes I just have to laugh. She has a wonderful sense of humor. We have our difficult days where she learns consequences, but the next day she is super sweet. Emma enjoys being a big sister and helps out all the time. I know she can't wait to have someone to play with in her backyard. Emma is helpful in other areas of the house too. She likes to help with dishes, laundry and cleaning her room. Emma is ready for the next few years saying she will get her back pack and ride the bus to school.
Josh and I are focused on being better versions of ourselves. We continue to eat healthier and workout. This month we are playing a weight loss game, and the winner chooses where we go on vacation. It should be a fun competition. We got settled into the house and had a very nice Christmas at home. I can see now that I have more room for decorations! Josh has expanded his home brewing out in the garage to include kegging. He enjoys collecting beer and sampling with friends. We set up a craft area in the living room that holds my sewing machine and cricut. I enjoy getting crafty when possible. My latest craft was wine cork Christmas trees. I enjoyed making them and didn't have to drink any wine! I also used some of the bows, beads, and ribbon that I received from my Aunt D'ann. I like going through the boxes to see what I can do next. We continue to stay busy juggling work, the girls, and life in general. Josh still works 4 10 hour days at Central Market, so he can watch Emma and Ellie Tuesday through Thursday. The girls stay with their Aunt T and Angelica on Mondays and Fridays. Then I have them on the weekend. It is a sacrifice to not have a day off with Josh, but it is worth it. We look forward to 2012 and all that it has in store for us.
Hope you all are having a great new year as well. Love- The Haars
Ellie has been a big adventure for us, who knew adding one more would shake up the world so much. She finished her therapy well, and should have no lasting effects. Ellie is beginning to move around, and can be found stuck under the coffee table. She loves to watch her big sister run and play. She has her own way of telling Emma I am watching you. Ellie squeals with delight, and almost bounces off your knee. I enjoy her cuddles and smiles. The girls are so different. When Emma was this age she was loveable but much more interested in doing her own thing. Ellie just wants to be held and loved on. Her first words were Dada and she is working on others. Everyone who sees the girls say they look so much alike. I can't wait to see what Ellie does next.
Emma is always learning new things. She surprises Josh and I with new phrases and actions. My current favorite is "I win, you lose, game over." She is sassy, but sometimes I just have to laugh. She has a wonderful sense of humor. We have our difficult days where she learns consequences, but the next day she is super sweet. Emma enjoys being a big sister and helps out all the time. I know she can't wait to have someone to play with in her backyard. Emma is helpful in other areas of the house too. She likes to help with dishes, laundry and cleaning her room. Emma is ready for the next few years saying she will get her back pack and ride the bus to school.
Josh and I are focused on being better versions of ourselves. We continue to eat healthier and workout. This month we are playing a weight loss game, and the winner chooses where we go on vacation. It should be a fun competition. We got settled into the house and had a very nice Christmas at home. I can see now that I have more room for decorations! Josh has expanded his home brewing out in the garage to include kegging. He enjoys collecting beer and sampling with friends. We set up a craft area in the living room that holds my sewing machine and cricut. I enjoy getting crafty when possible. My latest craft was wine cork Christmas trees. I enjoyed making them and didn't have to drink any wine! I also used some of the bows, beads, and ribbon that I received from my Aunt D'ann. I like going through the boxes to see what I can do next. We continue to stay busy juggling work, the girls, and life in general. Josh still works 4 10 hour days at Central Market, so he can watch Emma and Ellie Tuesday through Thursday. The girls stay with their Aunt T and Angelica on Mondays and Fridays. Then I have them on the weekend. It is a sacrifice to not have a day off with Josh, but it is worth it. We look forward to 2012 and all that it has in store for us.
Hope you all are having a great new year as well. Love- The Haars
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