I didn't get a good picture, but today I really enjoyed taking Will & Lila to the doctor for their check-ups (Will for his 2 year, Lila for her 4 month). Both of the kids were just completely adorable. Lila smiled & laughed & rolled around for the doctor (she learned to roll over almost a month ago!). Will followed all of his instructions perfectly & was very brave for his shots.
Current Stats...
Will:
25.2 lbs (15%), 34.75 inches (50%)
Lila:
11.4 lbs (10%), 23.25 inches (20%)
December 30, 2008
December 29, 2008
Art Projects & Ice Cream
Anyone who knows Savannah knows what a HUGE "project" girl she is.
She's very creative & can literally spend all day coloring & crafting.
So, I wasn't too surprised when she spent a good hour today at Chick-fil-a piecing together straws, forks & knives into all sorts of clever creations

My kids have suddenly taken a big interest in helping me in the kitchen. Tonight, nothing could be more exciting to them than home-made ice cream. The truth is, they never even ate any of it...the fun was all in the making. (Rod & I certainly enjoyed it after they went to bed!)
She's very creative & can literally spend all day coloring & crafting.
So, I wasn't too surprised when she spent a good hour today at Chick-fil-a piecing together straws, forks & knives into all sorts of clever creations
My kids have suddenly taken a big interest in helping me in the kitchen. Tonight, nothing could be more exciting to them than home-made ice cream. The truth is, they never even ate any of it...the fun was all in the making. (Rod & I certainly enjoyed it after they went to bed!)
December 28, 2008
Sunday Walks...
December 27, 2008
Swimming in December!?
Today we attended a fantastic birthday party...at the swimming pool! (Thanks Maren!!) Such a treat to dig our bathing suits out from the back of the closet.
The pool was inside and perfectly warm. Lila slept like an angel in her carrier the entire time, so the kids & I dove right in & had tons of fun.

I seriously wish I had a video of Will coming down this slide. He put his arms way behind his back & slowed himself down enough at the bottom to gracefully enter the pool without getting his hair wet...so much like his mom (anyone out there who has seen me pull off the "waterski run with dry hair" move knows exactly what I'm talking about!!)

After the pool, we tried a family dinner at Pei Wei. We don't take the kids out to eat much these days, and tonight we were reminded (once again) that it's more trouble than it's worth...
The pool was inside and perfectly warm. Lila slept like an angel in her carrier the entire time, so the kids & I dove right in & had tons of fun.
I seriously wish I had a video of Will coming down this slide. He put his arms way behind his back & slowed himself down enough at the bottom to gracefully enter the pool without getting his hair wet...so much like his mom (anyone out there who has seen me pull off the "waterski run with dry hair" move knows exactly what I'm talking about!!)
After the pool, we tried a family dinner at Pei Wei. We don't take the kids out to eat much these days, and tonight we were reminded (once again) that it's more trouble than it's worth...
December 26, 2008
Never Alone!
I'm just never alone anymore, and perhaps some day I will miss it...
I certainly would rather have dried my hair alone today, but Lila wouldn't have it. That child, just like the others, prefers to be attached to me as much as possible.
She certainly enjoyed the morning, watching herself in the mirror while basking in the warmth of my blow dryer. Just look at that smile!
I certainly would rather have dried my hair alone today, but Lila wouldn't have it. That child, just like the others, prefers to be attached to me as much as possible.
She certainly enjoyed the morning, watching herself in the mirror while basking in the warmth of my blow dryer. Just look at that smile!
December 25, 2008
MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!
What a happy day!
I didn't take nearly enough photos, but we sure had fun playing...all...day...long!
Last night, I went to bed envisioning a nice, slow, proper, opening of presents.
Well, that just didn't happen. The kids woke up at 8:00 & dove right in.
Will & Savannah both got new bicycles. Savannah's is a "Fairy Princess" bike with purple streamers. Will's is a "running bike" with no pedals. Both were big hits & the kids spent a lot of time today, riding outside.
The stockings were huge hits this year, too. A box of Tic Tacs goes a LONG way in this family, and the kids were beyond thrilled to find two boxes in each of their stockings, along with lots of other goodies.
Savannah got several art projects, awesome walkie-talkies from Aunt Brooke & Uncle Aaron, a cool My Little Pony from Aunt JoLee & Uncle Nate, a bunch of rainbow stuff (none of it was really quite right--she wants stuff that is rainbow colors, not stuff with actual rainbows on it...), and lots more.
Will got a space shuttle, cars, books, puzzles, and the BIGGEST hit of all...A Lightning McQueen Race Set from Aaron, Brooke, Nate & JoLee. Good work, gang! seriously, we played with it all day, the neighbor kids played with it, it's now on our coffee table, it's awesome & Will was in heaven.
We had our traditional German Pancake Breakfast, followed by a Turkey Feast (I couldn't let a year go by without making Mamoo's stuffing!), and way too much sugar.
Merry Christmas!






I didn't take nearly enough photos, but we sure had fun playing...all...day...long!
Last night, I went to bed envisioning a nice, slow, proper, opening of presents.
Well, that just didn't happen. The kids woke up at 8:00 & dove right in.
Will & Savannah both got new bicycles. Savannah's is a "Fairy Princess" bike with purple streamers. Will's is a "running bike" with no pedals. Both were big hits & the kids spent a lot of time today, riding outside.
The stockings were huge hits this year, too. A box of Tic Tacs goes a LONG way in this family, and the kids were beyond thrilled to find two boxes in each of their stockings, along with lots of other goodies.
Savannah got several art projects, awesome walkie-talkies from Aunt Brooke & Uncle Aaron, a cool My Little Pony from Aunt JoLee & Uncle Nate, a bunch of rainbow stuff (none of it was really quite right--she wants stuff that is rainbow colors, not stuff with actual rainbows on it...), and lots more.
Will got a space shuttle, cars, books, puzzles, and the BIGGEST hit of all...A Lightning McQueen Race Set from Aaron, Brooke, Nate & JoLee. Good work, gang! seriously, we played with it all day, the neighbor kids played with it, it's now on our coffee table, it's awesome & Will was in heaven.
We had our traditional German Pancake Breakfast, followed by a Turkey Feast (I couldn't let a year go by without making Mamoo's stuffing!), and way too much sugar.
Merry Christmas!
December 24, 2008
MERRY CHRISTMAS MOM!!!
Mom, I know how much love us & I know how much you miss us.
I also know how much this blog means to you.
So, for Christmas, I promise to keep on blogging, every day, until you come to see us again.
Merry Christmas, Mom! I love & appreciate you so so so much!
(And please come soon!)
I also know how much this blog means to you.
So, for Christmas, I promise to keep on blogging, every day, until you come to see us again.
Merry Christmas, Mom! I love & appreciate you so so so much!
(And please come soon!)
Christmas Countdown - December 24th
MERRY CHRISTMAS EVE!
The kids & I had a busy day, ending with a big dinner with friends.
Savannah was asked to be one of the angels in the nativity. She was so fired up to wear her ballerina costume with fairy wings--too cute.

When we got home from dinner, Santa doorbell-ditched us & left a package on the porch. A big note was attached, reminding the children to go to bed early tonight!
Thomas for Will & Rainbows for Savannah. Good work, Santa!

Savannah insisted on leaving milk & a Go-gurt for Santa (She thought he might be tired of cookies)

Can't wait for tomorrow morning!
The kids & I had a busy day, ending with a big dinner with friends.
Savannah was asked to be one of the angels in the nativity. She was so fired up to wear her ballerina costume with fairy wings--too cute.
When we got home from dinner, Santa doorbell-ditched us & left a package on the porch. A big note was attached, reminding the children to go to bed early tonight!
Thomas for Will & Rainbows for Savannah. Good work, Santa!
Savannah insisted on leaving milk & a Go-gurt for Santa (She thought he might be tired of cookies)
Can't wait for tomorrow morning!
December 23, 2008
Christmas Countdown - December 23rd
While uploading my pictures today, I saw several I didn't recognize.
Apparently Savannah got hold of my camera & took some of her own Christmas photos.
So, here they are, unedited...
Our Poinsettia

Our Advent Box

A Gingerbread Man Ornament

Will's Lightning McQueen Collection (I should frame this one for him)

Her Little Brother

Pretty good stuff!
And here is one I took today--my two big kids, reading to each other.
Just 2 days ago, Bill & Stacey gave them the "Ten Little Dinosaurs" book. It's been a complete hit. They can't get enough! Savannah's trying to memorize it & Will gets the biggest kick out of putting his finger (as he's doing in this picture) in each dinosaur's mouth and saying, "ooh, bite!" Too cute.
Apparently Savannah got hold of my camera & took some of her own Christmas photos.
So, here they are, unedited...
Our Poinsettia
Our Advent Box
A Gingerbread Man Ornament
Will's Lightning McQueen Collection (I should frame this one for him)
Her Little Brother
Pretty good stuff!
And here is one I took today--my two big kids, reading to each other.
Just 2 days ago, Bill & Stacey gave them the "Ten Little Dinosaurs" book. It's been a complete hit. They can't get enough! Savannah's trying to memorize it & Will gets the biggest kick out of putting his finger (as he's doing in this picture) in each dinosaur's mouth and saying, "ooh, bite!" Too cute.
December 22, 2008
Christmas Countdown - December 22nd
December 21, 2008
Christmas Countdown - December 21st
Today was a fun one!
Tomorrow is Rod's birthday, so Savannah & I decided to whip up a little family surprise party for him, one day in advance.
Big thanks to Bill & Stacey, who delivered the balloons & lemon meringue pie right on time!
Savannah was so proud of her "HAPPY BIRTHDAY ROD" banner

The kids loved helping blow out the candles (which Grandma brought especially for Rod, when she visited this month)

And Rod is now the proud new owner of "The Psychology of Selling". (Watch out, blog readers...don't let this guy talk you into anything you don't want!!)

Bill & Stacey made the evening extra extra special by bringing presents for the family. Bubble bath & slippers for Savannah, a dinosaur book for Will, an amazing pop-up book for Lila, and a fun holiday cookbook for everyone. The gift receipts Stacey brought went straight to the trash. Thanks, you 2, for everything!! (And don't forget to bring Oscar next time!)

After Rod's birthday party, we headed out to attend a big Christmas party. We all had a blast. I just about died when I saw Rod, songbook in hand, singing Christmas Carols & truly enjoying it. What in the world? When did you decide to be a singer, Rod?? Have you finally just given in to the fabulousness you've always fought? Love it!!!

Happy Early Birthday, Rod!
WE SURE LOVE YOU!!!!
Tomorrow is Rod's birthday, so Savannah & I decided to whip up a little family surprise party for him, one day in advance.
Big thanks to Bill & Stacey, who delivered the balloons & lemon meringue pie right on time!
Savannah was so proud of her "HAPPY BIRTHDAY ROD" banner
The kids loved helping blow out the candles (which Grandma brought especially for Rod, when she visited this month)
And Rod is now the proud new owner of "The Psychology of Selling". (Watch out, blog readers...don't let this guy talk you into anything you don't want!!)
Bill & Stacey made the evening extra extra special by bringing presents for the family. Bubble bath & slippers for Savannah, a dinosaur book for Will, an amazing pop-up book for Lila, and a fun holiday cookbook for everyone. The gift receipts Stacey brought went straight to the trash. Thanks, you 2, for everything!! (And don't forget to bring Oscar next time!)
After Rod's birthday party, we headed out to attend a big Christmas party. We all had a blast. I just about died when I saw Rod, songbook in hand, singing Christmas Carols & truly enjoying it. What in the world? When did you decide to be a singer, Rod?? Have you finally just given in to the fabulousness you've always fought? Love it!!!
Happy Early Birthday, Rod!
WE SURE LOVE YOU!!!!
Growing Up
When I looked at this picture I took of Savannah today, I felt so surprised by how grown up she suddenly seems.
She really is such a fun girl & I am getting a kick out of the conversations we now share.
She talks about the future a lot, especially about where she's going to live (close to us, she says, because she "doesn't even know how to get to the airport"!).
She gives us tips on parenting ("If you want Will to stop eating junk, you just have to trick him. Just tell him the healthy things are treats!")
And she's so generous with her love & praise ("Mom & Dad, I love you so much, even when you make mistakes & even when we're on vacation & even all the days.)
We're so blessed to have Savannah in our family.
She really is such a fun girl & I am getting a kick out of the conversations we now share.
She talks about the future a lot, especially about where she's going to live (close to us, she says, because she "doesn't even know how to get to the airport"!).
She gives us tips on parenting ("If you want Will to stop eating junk, you just have to trick him. Just tell him the healthy things are treats!")
And she's so generous with her love & praise ("Mom & Dad, I love you so much, even when you make mistakes & even when we're on vacation & even all the days.)
We're so blessed to have Savannah in our family.
December 20, 2008
Christmas Countdown - December 20th
A true Christmas Celebration for Rod & Jen...a 4 hour date night!
We love them more than anything, but it was so nice to spend some time without the little ones!!
First we hit one of our favorite restaurants. Mai's is a funky little Vietnamese spot close to downtown. Rod & I spent a summer together in Asia, with the business school, when we were first married. We fell in love with Vietnam--the people are so kind & beautiful, and the food is amazing. So, every once in a while, we love to snag some spring rolls & lemongrass chicken. So delicious & such great service.
They even took a picture of us!

After dinner, I finagled Rod into joining me on a Christmas shopping extravaganza. With some serious focus, we were able to completely knock out the kids lists in 1.5 hours. The truth is, I've been working on gathering things & I just have had such a hard time. Toys R Us completely disappointed us in the "rainbow" category. Seriously, they had NOTHING.
So, Rod & I decided to try Target.
Sure enough, Rod the super shopper found EXACTLY what we needed!! Here he is, with quiet dignity, holding the prized rainbow bear & rainbow horse Savannah has been dreaming about. HOORAY!!!!!

Last night, before bed, Savannah told Rod, "Daddy, if you can't find a rainbow bear, that's ok. We can just get a white one & put bows on it." Seriously, such a sweet kid. I can't wait for her to see the rainbow bear Daddy found--hope it's a hit!!!
We also decided on bikes for the kids & loaded up on stocking stuffers.
Shopping at Target was definitely not the way Rod had envisioned his date night, but I just completely appreciate him helping me out. He's such a good decision maker (and I am so NOT), and he was a really good sport. Thank you, Rod, for being there for me!!
Now, onto the present wrapping!
We love them more than anything, but it was so nice to spend some time without the little ones!!
First we hit one of our favorite restaurants. Mai's is a funky little Vietnamese spot close to downtown. Rod & I spent a summer together in Asia, with the business school, when we were first married. We fell in love with Vietnam--the people are so kind & beautiful, and the food is amazing. So, every once in a while, we love to snag some spring rolls & lemongrass chicken. So delicious & such great service.
They even took a picture of us!
After dinner, I finagled Rod into joining me on a Christmas shopping extravaganza. With some serious focus, we were able to completely knock out the kids lists in 1.5 hours. The truth is, I've been working on gathering things & I just have had such a hard time. Toys R Us completely disappointed us in the "rainbow" category. Seriously, they had NOTHING.
So, Rod & I decided to try Target.
Sure enough, Rod the super shopper found EXACTLY what we needed!! Here he is, with quiet dignity, holding the prized rainbow bear & rainbow horse Savannah has been dreaming about. HOORAY!!!!!
Last night, before bed, Savannah told Rod, "Daddy, if you can't find a rainbow bear, that's ok. We can just get a white one & put bows on it." Seriously, such a sweet kid. I can't wait for her to see the rainbow bear Daddy found--hope it's a hit!!!
We also decided on bikes for the kids & loaded up on stocking stuffers.
Shopping at Target was definitely not the way Rod had envisioned his date night, but I just completely appreciate him helping me out. He's such a good decision maker (and I am so NOT), and he was a really good sport. Thank you, Rod, for being there for me!!
Now, onto the present wrapping!
Christmas Countdown-December 19th
Today was our first official day of Christmas Break--School is OUT!!!!
We celebrated with lunch at Chuck E. Cheese.
Savannah was (obviously) excited...

Will had a blast. Every time we go, he's on a mission to earn the 10 tickets needed to buy his favorite blue Tootsie Pop. And, as a true Hinze, he has learned that sometimes charm & personality can make up for a shortage in funds...

Dinner tonight was at JG's Hamburgers. Our favorite neighbor came along with us, to help watch the kids--fantastic!!!

My kids are true Texans & there's nothing more Texan than real Blue Bell Ice Cream. Drink up, Will!
We celebrated with lunch at Chuck E. Cheese.
Savannah was (obviously) excited...
Will had a blast. Every time we go, he's on a mission to earn the 10 tickets needed to buy his favorite blue Tootsie Pop. And, as a true Hinze, he has learned that sometimes charm & personality can make up for a shortage in funds...
Dinner tonight was at JG's Hamburgers. Our favorite neighbor came along with us, to help watch the kids--fantastic!!!
My kids are true Texans & there's nothing more Texan than real Blue Bell Ice Cream. Drink up, Will!
December 19, 2008
How cute is Lila Kate?
So cute, right!?
At 3 1/2 months old, Lila is just oozing with personality.
She looks the most like her mommy of anyone. Everywhere we go, people comment that she's just a "Mini Jen". Most of all, people comment on her petite size & on her fabulous smile (which includes 2 precious dimples!)
Lila is a very content, but very busy baby (reminds me of her sister).
She doesn't like to sit--she tolerates the car seat, but detests the swing--and prefers to be help upright (in the Bjorn). When not being held, she loves, loves, loves her tummy. She's very strong & wants to be working those neck muscles.
She's all over the exersaucer lately--what a happy girl!

Loving her tummy time...
At 3 1/2 months old, Lila is just oozing with personality.
She looks the most like her mommy of anyone. Everywhere we go, people comment that she's just a "Mini Jen". Most of all, people comment on her petite size & on her fabulous smile (which includes 2 precious dimples!)
Lila is a very content, but very busy baby (reminds me of her sister).
She doesn't like to sit--she tolerates the car seat, but detests the swing--and prefers to be help upright (in the Bjorn). When not being held, she loves, loves, loves her tummy. She's very strong & wants to be working those neck muscles.
She's all over the exersaucer lately--what a happy girl!
Loving her tummy time...
December 18, 2008
Christmas Countdown - December 18th
Today Savannah's class celebrated the last day of school, before the break, with a big Christmas party.
Savannah & I were in charge of the food. She had a fun time picking out fresh fruit (delicious clementines), cheese squares & juice boxes. Of course, we also made our favorite cupcakes. Savannah decided to break outside of the traditional Christmas color box & made ours hot pink & spring green, with little snowflakes. Very cute & very delicious!


Little Lila enjoyed the party from the Bjorn!

Savannah did a great job answering her Christmas Trivia Question:
What is Santa's favorite Christmas Eve treat?
(She confidently answered "hot cocoa & cookies"--way to score for your team!)

After the party, Savannah began complaining about her ear hurting. Since she has never had ear problems, I decided to go ahead (against the phone nurse's wishes) & take her into the doctor. Sure enough, her left ear is infected.
The crazy thing is that, at almost 4 1/2 years old, Savannah has never been to the doctor for a sick visit, and she has never been prescribed medication. She has just been the healthiest little kid ever & I am so grateful for that.
So, I couldn't resist sneaking into her room tonight & getting a shot of my sleeping beauty, next to her first bottle of amoxyicillin! (And don't worry, the ear infection hasn't slowed her down one bit--she was jumping all over the couches like a crazy lady just moments before this photo was taken!)

And, finally...Savannah's official Christmas wish-list this year:
1. A Rainbow Unicorn
2. A Rainbow Bear
3. A Rainbow Truck that Lights Up
She says she hasn't seen any of these things in real life. She says "I just thought them up in my head." Rod & I are now on an official mission--Wish us luck!
Savannah & I were in charge of the food. She had a fun time picking out fresh fruit (delicious clementines), cheese squares & juice boxes. Of course, we also made our favorite cupcakes. Savannah decided to break outside of the traditional Christmas color box & made ours hot pink & spring green, with little snowflakes. Very cute & very delicious!
Little Lila enjoyed the party from the Bjorn!
Savannah did a great job answering her Christmas Trivia Question:
What is Santa's favorite Christmas Eve treat?
(She confidently answered "hot cocoa & cookies"--way to score for your team!)
After the party, Savannah began complaining about her ear hurting. Since she has never had ear problems, I decided to go ahead (against the phone nurse's wishes) & take her into the doctor. Sure enough, her left ear is infected.
The crazy thing is that, at almost 4 1/2 years old, Savannah has never been to the doctor for a sick visit, and she has never been prescribed medication. She has just been the healthiest little kid ever & I am so grateful for that.
So, I couldn't resist sneaking into her room tonight & getting a shot of my sleeping beauty, next to her first bottle of amoxyicillin! (And don't worry, the ear infection hasn't slowed her down one bit--she was jumping all over the couches like a crazy lady just moments before this photo was taken!)
And, finally...Savannah's official Christmas wish-list this year:
1. A Rainbow Unicorn
2. A Rainbow Bear
3. A Rainbow Truck that Lights Up
She says she hasn't seen any of these things in real life. She says "I just thought them up in my head." Rod & I are now on an official mission--Wish us luck!
Christmas Countdown - December 17th
Now here's a REAL Christmas Treat...
Lila Kate sleeping soundly through the night!!!
At the risk of jinxing the whole thing, I must say we've recently made some significant progress in sleeping. Lila is just a little angel. Her smile is absolutely contagious, and she is a bundle of sweet, happy energy. More pictures to come soon!!
Lila Kate sleeping soundly through the night!!!
At the risk of jinxing the whole thing, I must say we've recently made some significant progress in sleeping. Lila is just a little angel. Her smile is absolutely contagious, and she is a bundle of sweet, happy energy. More pictures to come soon!!
December 17, 2008
Christmas Countdown - December 16th
This year, I designated a little area in our dining room to be the "Kid Christmas Zone".
It's definitely not going to win any style/design awards, but I love having a spot for them to showcase their creativity. We have 3 small artificial trees--one for each child, to decorate any way he or she so desires. Savannah especially loved choosing & stringing her own lights (since the white lights on our family tree were "way too boring"). It also holds the kids' nativity set & is the home to any holiday artwork made by my prolific creators.
The Kid Christmas Zone is still a work in progress, but they were having such a fun time working on it tonight (notice Savannah's art smock!) that I had to take a picture.
It's definitely not going to win any style/design awards, but I love having a spot for them to showcase their creativity. We have 3 small artificial trees--one for each child, to decorate any way he or she so desires. Savannah especially loved choosing & stringing her own lights (since the white lights on our family tree were "way too boring"). It also holds the kids' nativity set & is the home to any holiday artwork made by my prolific creators.
The Kid Christmas Zone is still a work in progress, but they were having such a fun time working on it tonight (notice Savannah's art smock!) that I had to take a picture.
December 15, 2008
Christmas Countdown - December 15th
One of our favorite holiday outings is visiting the Trains at Northpark (our nearby mall). The collection is absolutely amazing.
We met up there with friends for Family Home Evening. The late evening hour, combined with freezing cold temperatures, kept the crowds away. So, the kids were able to stay & browse the trains for a very long time. (Just long enough to work up a good gelato-eating appetite.) What fun!
We met up there with friends for Family Home Evening. The late evening hour, combined with freezing cold temperatures, kept the crowds away. So, the kids were able to stay & browse the trains for a very long time. (Just long enough to work up a good gelato-eating appetite.) What fun!
December 14, 2008
Christmas Countdown - December 14th
Rod was asked to speak in our Christmas Program at church. Today was his big day, and he did a wonderful job. The kids were so proud to watch their Daddy up at the pulpit, and they especially enjoyed the stories he shared about them. I, of course, had quite an adventure wrestling all 3 kids on our bench in the congregation (thank goodness for the king-size packs of Skittles Grandma bought us!)
After church, Rod & Will spent time looking at pictures on the computer. Rod pointed to a picture of Santa Claus and asked Will, "Who's that?" Will promptly responded "Jesus". Dang.
Tonight the kids all took their bath together. Lila loves to splash while being held by her big sister.
Rub-a-dub-dub, 3 Hinzes in the Tub!!!
After church, Rod & Will spent time looking at pictures on the computer. Rod pointed to a picture of Santa Claus and asked Will, "Who's that?" Will promptly responded "Jesus". Dang.
Tonight the kids all took their bath together. Lila loves to splash while being held by her big sister.
Rub-a-dub-dub, 3 Hinzes in the Tub!!!
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