tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28162194287385303022024-03-05T08:48:36.196-08:00Cute and crazy crawford clanCrawford Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01188478429956721012noreply@blogger.comBlogger410125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816219428738530302.post-91438574668201119542011-05-27T22:04:00.000-07:002011-05-27T23:00:51.122-07:00Sammy Turns Five!I cannot believe how the time flies, Sammy is already five! (of course as I type this Chris and I are celebrating our 9th wedding anniversary so I really feel like I am in super speed mode or something). He originally wanted a star wars party, suprise suprise. But I decided this year we would only invite the kids in his class and one other special friend, which meant there would be more girls then boys and as much as I think girls would LOVE running around getting the storm troopers, well needless to say I asked Sammy if there was any other thing he loved as much as Star Wars he replied, "Creations!" Which is true, he is nuts about making stuff out of trash. I decided to class it up a bit and go with painting party. This year I didn't want to go to the effort of making an entirely new fabric birthday bunting so I made one in photoshop instead in fun bright colors, then sewed it to some striped fabric. <div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5766544705/" title="happy by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3258/5766544705_09586efb23_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="happy" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5767078388/" title="birthday by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5301/5767078388_af3099f011_m.jpg" width="240" height="197" alt="birthday" /></a></div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5767273070/" title="sammy by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5304/5767273070_e3f0a41c25_m.jpg" width="240" height="160" alt="sammy" /></a></div><div>We ordered lots of paints</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5766539675/" title="canvas by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2292/5766539675_de49489648_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="canvas" /></a></div><div>and brushes</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5767101594/" title="paintcrushes by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3019/5767101594_2da80a9102_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="paintcrushes" /></a></div><div>and everyone got their own canvas, crown, whistle and mask to decorate</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5767092104/" title="lollies by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5141/5767092104_6699a58542_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="lollies" /></a></div><div>When I ordered the puff balls they only sold them in 5 lb bags. Since I had no concept of puff ball weight I didn't realize the enormous amount that would be. This bowl was <i>maybe </i>1/4 the bag. I have no idea what we are going to do with the rest ha!</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5766552593/" title="puffballs by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3139/5766552593_19348f9f58_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="puffballs" /></a></div><div>We borrowed the tables and Chairs from Liam's little school and had everything set up on our deck to keep the kids cool, in the shade and if by some randomness it rained dry. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5766558199/" title="tables by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3660/5766558199_5059d5aa1c_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="tables" /></a></div><div>When the kids arrived they could pick an apron color (these were soooo easy to make, at first I thought I was nuts but after a dozen you get a rhythm goin') pick up their party bag, which had some very special art supplies they could use or save for later (yes they are pink and purple and the only gift bags I could find on the island. I thought Sam would mention it but he never did! Phew!)</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5767106238/" title="treatbags by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2171/5767106238_535bb08e03_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="treatbags" /></a></div><div>Then they could check out the chalkboard to decide what to do first. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5767087230/" title="chalkboard by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2657/5767087230_24a29b977e_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="chalkboard" /></a></div><div>Some how Abby got hold of one of the giant suckers and I swear every time I turned around she had a different one. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5767086126/" title="abbylollie by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2340/5767086126_1ea6d960f3_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="abbylollie" /></a></div><div>Sam (who refused to cover up his Star Wars shirt) had a blast "creating" with all his friends. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5766561943/" title="projects1 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2301/5766561943_7179904c0c_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="projects1" /></a></div><div>Briggs and Carmen, possibly Sammy's two favorite people in Timor at the same table!!</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5767083922/" title="briggscarmne by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2199/5767083922_bf3af3ce72_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="briggscarmne" /></a></div><div>Ava is the youngest in his class and such a sweet heart. She was unusually shy at the party, I think she was a bit overwhelmed. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5766535375/" title="ava by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5146/5766535375_d7f33cdb50_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="ava" /></a></div><div>Raf is Sammy's buddy from Portugal and thankfully also likes Star Wars. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5767110642/" title="raf by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3051/5767110642_fba8e77ba6_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="raf" /></a></div><div>I got a chance to try out the amazing face paint my friend Rachel brought me back from Aus and her cool step by step instruction book. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5767081916/" title="facepaint by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5306/5767081916_c20d1cf85f_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="facepaint" /></a></div><div>Then the kids left their creations to dry and it was water play and snack time! (I thought it was pretty funny how one person painted a rainbow on their canvas and suddenly there were a bunch of rainbows ha!)</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5767095248/" title="creationtable by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3041/5767095248_9c55c65880_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="creationtable" /></a></div><div>Sammy's one food request was "iceblocks". I think this is an Australian thing? You basically take all different flavored cordials, water them down, pour them into plastic cups and freeze them. They then literally become flavored ice blocks. They sell them at the school as a fundraiser for the orphanage every Tuesday and Thursday and the kids go nuts about them. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5767110924/" title="sylviavivian by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2183/5767110924_f5d24477b9_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="sylviavivian" /></a></div><div>Sylvia and Vivian in the baby pool enjoying their blocks. I think Sylvia spent the majority of her time just chillin in that pool. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5766569149/" title="sammysylvia by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2371/5766569149_c58d3b610d_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="sammysylvia" /></a></div><div>Oscar tried out the slip n slide</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5767113816/" title="oscar by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5104/5767113816_6ffeab6d63_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="oscar" /></a></div><div>If they got cold in the water they could take a break and go get all sweaty on the bounce house. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5767089244/" title="bouncehouse by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5261/5767089244_c6994da9ca_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="bouncehouse" /></a></div><div>Shiyon is from Korea and I swear she and her mom are the most stylish people I know I would die for some hand me downs. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5766571153/" title="shiyon by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3391/5766571153_a9463d81d3_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="shiyon" /></a></div><div>After lunch it was cake time! Okay so I worked pretty hard on this cake, despite the fact that it looks so plain. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5766547097/" title="cake1 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3275/5766547097_31a3c688d8_z.jpg" width="428" height="640" alt="cake1" /></a></div><div>I have been following <a href="http://whisk-kid.blogspot.com/">THIS</a> blog for a while and she did THIS cake that I thought would be perfect. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5766787445/" title="sammyliamcake by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2275/5766787445_b62ecf4111_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="sammyliamcake" /></a></div><div>I have got to learn how to ice a cake well. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5766572617/" title="sammsmilecake by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2793/5766572617_e0b9bd4b84_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="sammsmilecake" /></a></div><div>I even bought one of those special paddle tools and it didn't help much ha! </div><div>Liam was pretty excited himself. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5767116010/" title="liamcake by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3128/5767116010_d21385143b_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="liamcake" /></a></div><div>We got to hear "Happy Birthday" the Aussie way, Italian way and Portuguese way. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5767119740/" title="kidscake2 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5267/5767119740_92e9565988_z.jpg" width="640" height="376" alt="kidscake2" /></a></div><div>Sammy was able to blow out the one candle in one blow. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5767330612/" title="sammyblowcandle by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5189/5767330612_fa38eb4913_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="sammyblowcandle" /></a></div><div>The kids were pretty excited when they saw the cake cut, even when the icing started melting and the cake was sliding apart ha!</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5767099796/" title="cakefalling by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5067/5767099796_a2d75fc946_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="cakefalling" /></a></div><div>I warned the parents that the amount of food coloring may send them to the hospital</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5766550571/" title="briggscake by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5023/5766550571_06793f6b26_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="briggscake" /></a></div><div>Abby enjoyed the cake... oh wait no she was working on her fifth lollipop probably at that point. This one she didn't even bother having someone take off the wrapper she just muscled through it. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5767100428/" title="abbylolli by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2397/5767100428_407b9781f4_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="abbylolli" /></a></div><div>Sammy seemed to have a great time and got some really fun presents to remind him of Timor.</div><div>The next day on his actual birthday I made our traditional train shaped cake and we gave him the presents from us. He just about died when he opened the remote control R2D2 and do you know who else loves him? Abby. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5766560217/" title="abbytoys by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2519/5766560217_3095abc8d8_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="abbytoys" /></a></div><div>Abby is so crazy about R2D2 that even if she is playing with another toy she will lock her legs around R2 so you can't get him. And if you try, she WILL bite you. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5766563571/" title="abbybite by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2291/5766563571_59a3c684de_z.jpg" width="459" height="640" alt="abbybite" /></a></div><div>Luckily Sammy is a pretty darn good sharer so he doesn't get bitten too often ha! </div><div>In other news we have less then 3 weeks here in Timor! We cannot believe how fast it has gone. We are all packed for our big family vacation with the Crawford's (Chris and I are retracing the last half of our honeymoon, Disneyland then Mexico... yup I said last half, our honeymoon was legendary ha!) then we have my little sisters wedding to get ready for! Once again I will be the super preggy one hiding in the back of all the photos. I don't know if I will blog again from Timor, now that is a weird feeling. Hopefully I will gather enough energy (the stomach flu has ripped through our house hold this week) to get a goodbye party together so we can say good bye to all our friends. Just thinking about it makes me kinda tired though ha! As does thinking about the 13 hour flight we will take from Sydney to LA ahhhhhh! Prayers for that are welcome :)</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Crawford Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01188478429956721012noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816219428738530302.post-17498096701288705262011-05-08T22:03:00.000-07:002011-05-09T22:14:04.863-07:00Sailing for Mothers DayTo celebrate Mothers day my friend Jeanne organized a sailing trip! I was really excited because this was something I had wanted to do for a while but you have to do it in a big group otherwise it is insanely expensive. The fun group of us from over 8 countries (always love how diverse the group is) set sail at 3:30 in the afternoon. <div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5698515204/" title="_MG_5316_6183proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5029/5698515204_540bb32240_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_5316_6183proof" /></a></div><div>I wish I had gotten a pic of our sail boat, it was gorgeous. But being panicky about having my camera I double freezer ziplock bagged it in my carry on and couldn't get it out fast enough. I figured the ziplock bags would give me the five seconds necessary to throw myself overboard after my bag if it went in. But here I am pushing my belly out as a joke at the front of the boat (Aft? Stern?), my friend Krista told me I needed to look pregnant, check. <div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5698500954/" title="IMG_5306_6173proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3450/5698500954_043fb6026c_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="IMG_5306_6173proof" /></a></div><div>We sailed through Dili harbor and out around the Christ statue</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5698508670/" title="IMG_5312_6179proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2061/5698508670_f7ab868e45_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="IMG_5312_6179proof" /></a></div><div>They served little Hors d'oeuvre (spelled the French way-- I gotta learn sometime!) along the way and we brought lots of yummy drinks and the conversation was fantastic! Plus I had fun listening in on some of my friends speaking French. Didn't understand a word but it made my ears excited for Paris.</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5698512170/" title="_MG_5317_6184proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2527/5698512170_693d50c521_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_5317_6184proof" /></a></div><div><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:small;">krista, steve, jeanne, toby</span></i></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal; font-size:medium;">Once we got to back beach we stopped so we could snorkel. This is a great spot, but unfortunately the sight on land was pretty sad. </span></i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal; font-size:medium;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5697934975/" title="_MG_5315_6182proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5102/5697934975_1f2e227019_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_5315_6182proof" /></a></span></i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" ;font-size:small;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal; font-size:medium;">We have no idea why but they were slashing and burning the mountain side. </span></i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal; font-size:medium;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5697945635/" title="_MG_5331_6198 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5027/5697945635_2b15f8ace0_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_5331_6198" /></a></span></i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal; font-size:medium;">Usually they only do this in areas they are going to farm and Back Beach is definitely not that place, so we don't really know what was up. But it was cool watching the "Bombedaros" fight it.</span></i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal; font-size:medium;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5697946849/" title="_MG_5342_6209proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2392/5697946849_fe32ace195_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_5342_6209proof" /></a></span></i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal; font-size:medium;">Some people stayed and relaxed on the boat but Chris and I jumped in. The water was gorgeous and so clear but to be honest I spent the majority of my time trying to tell myself not to think about crocs. </span></i></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal; font-size:medium;"> </span></i></span><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5698503950/" title="IMG_5321_6188proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5222/5698503950_341c14eee6_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="IMG_5321_6188proof" /></a></div><div>I tried to stay close to Jeanne's hubby Silas since he had a spear gun ha! I was a bit worried about how we were going to get back on the ship since we had simply flung ourselves over the side, but when it was time to go a ladder magically appeared :) </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5697925907/" title="_MG_5329_6196proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5069/5697925907_87464ec840_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_5329_6196proof" /></a></div><div>This was the little "dingy" that was pulled behind us and used in case any of us were taken off by the current while snorkeling, which was actually very strong. I was tempted to ask if I could sit back in it on the way back in, it sounded fun to be tugged. </div></div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5698522868/" title="_MG_5356_6223 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2361/5698522868_4590a7440a_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_5356_6223" /></a></div><div>But I am glad I didn't though because I would have missed the most amazing sunset. It started out just sort of getting dark</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5698502844/" title="_MG_5324_6191proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5028/5698502844_39c7bb4a3d_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_5324_6191proof" /></a></div><div>and I was a little bummed thinking we weren't going to get any color. So for a while I took some other random pictures since I didn't think I would get a good sunset shot. You know of totally weird things like a pile of rope</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5697950111/" title="_MG_5374_6241proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5182/5697950111_ed16026ff3_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_5374_6241proof" /></a></div><div>and lots and lots of the sails</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5697939241/" title="_MG_5411_6278proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2275/5697939241_f47f44c842_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_5411_6278proof" /></a></div><div>None of which turned out all that great. Then my friends hubby said "Kelly do you not want any of the sunset?" I sat up and BAM! This was what I saw:</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5698515750/" title="_MG_5407_6274proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3118/5698515750_6f8ae3c0e9_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_5407_6274proof" /></a></div><div>So of course I nearly killed myself running to the front of the boat to get a better shot</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5697945761/" title="_MG_5400_6267proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5108/5697945761_6520ba89cb_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_5400_6267proof" /></a></div><div>These are straight out of the camera (I have no clue how to edit a sunset anyway). The colors were amazing!!! After enjoying the sunset we sailed slowly back to port in the dark. It was soooo relaxing sitting back and talking while the boat swayed. I told Chris I think we should retire to a yacht. He told me that there is an old saying that the two happiest days of a boat owners life are the day he buys the boat and the day he sells it. I guess that is a no :) It was a lovely mothers day gift though.... even if it didn't involve the munchkins, just us two. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5697948503/" title="_MG_5380_6247proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5221/5697948503_3e2406a2fa_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_5380_6247proof" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Crawford Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01188478429956721012noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816219428738530302.post-73541525627318317732011-04-30T02:53:00.000-07:002011-04-30T05:16:40.183-07:00Singapore, Jakarta and easterBe forewarned that this is going to be a loooong post :) There is lots to catch up on! A few weeks ago Liam and I took a trip to Singapore! Liam needed to see a pediatric gastrointestinal specialist to figure out just why he isn't growing and well, frequenting the bathroom more often then the normal child :) I got to see the OBGYN and sneak a peak at the baby! We were there for a week and had a blast just the two of us. After almost two years now going every where with three kiddos it was bizarre to be able to give all my attention to one child, and boy did he take advantage of it. I have NEVER heard Liam talk so much. I am pretty sure if he wasn't sleeping he was talking. Since Singapore is incredibly expensive it also helped having only 2 people to pay admission for. While we were at doctors getting poked and prodded we tried to get in most of what this gorgeous city had to offer. One morning we headed out bright and early to Snow City. It was a bit out of town so it took a while to get there. Then there was the rental of every piece of winter clothing and I suddenly acutely remembered why I DON'T miss getting kids ready to play in the snow ha! <div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5672340232/" title="snowsuit by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5304/5672340232_208c684a48_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="snowsuit" /></a></div><div>(they do not allow cameras inside. I had to totally sneak that picture of Liam as I put my picture in the locker. Instead they have someone follow you around with their camera and then try to sell you the pictures) Once we were all ready you had to wait in a holding room to acclimate to the cold temperature. In the room there were 3 huge animatronic polar bears that let our horrible and load roars ever few seconds. Liam was terrified. After we got into the "snow city" and I tried to distract him he just clung to me crying that the bears were going to get him. I finally talked him into sledding down the hill once and that was it, all he wanted to do was leave. Luckily right next door was the science museum that we had planned on going to after lunch. <div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5672342518/" title="science1 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5223/5672342518_47e54bae76_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="science1" /></a></div><div>This museum was amazing and Liam and I spent hours playing with the hundreds of exhibits. What was so great is that everything was made for kids to touch, play with or experiment with. Not once did I have to say "oh don't touch that!" Liam's favorite part was the robot display. He and Sam are NUTS over Star wars right now so he was pretty excited to see R2D2. He posed for a great picture in front of a poster of him. <div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5671777401/" title="r2d2proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5261/5671777401_045bb6cf56_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="r2d2proof" /></a></div><div>Liam got a much needed haircut the next day. The lady put it in a Mohawk, sprayed it with green hair paint and added gold glitter. Liam was in heaven. And totally bummed when I made him wash it before hoping into the pristine bedsheets. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5671783199/" title="haircut by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5188/5671783199_9bd18a7e7d_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="haircut" /></a></div><div>The next night we headed to the famous Singapore zoo night Safari. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5671780229/" title="nightsafari by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5229/5671780229_ae0c618481_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="nightsafari" /></a></div><div>You get to ride around on trams through special trails that passed by all the nocturnal animals. It was amazing to see the animals so close and so active. A few days later we headed back during the day to see the rest of the zoo. To be honest we spent the majority of the time at the fabulous water park in the kids area of the zoo. <div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5670657773/" title="_MG_4249_5236proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5184/5670657773_11c256ea57_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_4249_5236proof" /></a></div><div>Liam played for hours while I chilled in the stroller eating Ben and Jerry's (wise zoo planners put it right next to where all the parents sit)</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5671229482/" title="_MG_4251_5237proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5188/5671229482_a41cedc3ca_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_4251_5237proof" /></a></div><div>Liam became friends with a set of Aussie brothers just a bit older then him. They were so cute and kind to him. I think he enjoyed having a friend his age to talk to, after all he mentioned several times during the trip that he missed his brother. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5670663947/" title="_MG_4253_5238proo by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5150/5670663947_857b833fe7_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_4253_5238proo" /></a></div><div>As far as the animals go, his favorite were the giant bunnies. These bunnies were crazy huge and would totally let you pet them and they hoped really high. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5670655415/" title="_MG_4245_5232proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5150/5670655415_06d3cb853e_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_4245_5232proof" /></a></div><div>On the way out they had a station where you could take your picture with tropical birds. They were being so loud I thought there was no way he would do it, but he dashed up and gave a tiny smile. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5671237120/" title="_MG_4258_5240proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5262/5671237120_cabe413b34_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_4258_5240proof" /></a></div><div>We then spent a day just relaxing at the hotel pool. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5670648501/" title="_MG_4234_5258proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5022/5670648501_abb25abefc_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_4234_5258proof" /></a></div><div>Liam had a thing for winking and giving me thumbs up the entire trip, I thought it was pretty funny</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5670654357/" title="_MG_4217_5248proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5030/5670654357_96531549f1_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_4217_5248proof" /></a></div><div>The embassy takes care of hotel bills when you have to leave your post for a medical reason and I will just say that we stayed at a hotel we never would be able to stay at otherwise, especially in Singapore. Liam LOVED that the pool had pillars of water shooting up to play with</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5670650763/" title="_MG_4223_5253proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5147/5670650763_38f84d85a0_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_4223_5253proof" /></a></div><div>I was worried at first he was going to be told he couldn't play with them but all the workers would giggle and joke with him when they passed by. He refused to take off the flippers we found for him at a store next to the hotel</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5670650049/" title="_MG_4235_5259proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5229/5670650049_5e6d7c3a1c_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_4235_5259proof" /></a></div><div>When I got him a matching mask and snorkel he was dying to try them out, but it was raining. So into the ginormous tub he went</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5671221642/" title="_MG_4240_5241proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5103/5671221642_24a4586a27_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_4240_5241proof" /></a></div><div>The last day of adventuring we headed out to the island built for tourists, Sentosa. It is filled with different theme parks. First we hit up Insect world. The butterfly sanctuary was incredible. I was terrified one of us was going to step on one, they were everywhere. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5670638685/" title="_MG_4180_5268proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5102/5670638685_14f649dcf7_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_4180_5268proof" /></a></div><div>While I was trying to get a picture of a butterfly that was way bigger then my hand Liam kept yelling for me. He seemed totally distressed</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5670640139/" title="_MG_4188_5273proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5068/5670640139_af22483a06_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_4188_5273proof" /></a></div><div>When I came over he kept saying something about a turtle eating lunch. I looked down and sure enough a butterfly had drowned (?) and the turtle was enjoying it. Just a little disturbing. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5671210640/" title="_MG_4193_5275 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5023/5671210640_c3a8af1c88_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_4193_5275" /></a></div><div>After we got our fill of creepy crawlies we headed to Underwater world. I wanted to get there before the dolphin show and we got there RIGHT as it started. Everyone else was sitting in the nice shaded spots but Lemers and I had to sit in the blazing sun, but it was totally worth it. They asked for some volunteers to come do tricks with the dolphins. I waved Liam's hand like crazy and he got picked!</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5671212498/" title="_MG_4201_5280proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5268/5671212498_ca0abc26bb_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_4201_5280proof" /></a></div><div>I was worried he might not want to get his shorts wet (totally unprepared on that front) but he went right in!</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5671214960/" title="_MG_4206_5285proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5181/5671214960_bcd74e5f09_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_4206_5285proof" /></a></div><div>After they gave him a printed out picture of him and the dolphins and he just stared at it forever ;) We went through the aquarium, petting sting rays and the shark tunnel. This is when it dawned on me why Chris and I so prefer Aquariums over zoos. At zoo's half the time you can't even see the animals, the enclosures (thankfully) are too large. At aquariums you can squish your nose right up next to a massive dungeonous crab. The flight home with just one cutie was a breeze. Which was nice since we only had one week before our flight as a whole family to Jakarta! Chris had two days off work for Easter so we decided to go visit our friends the Nielsen's up in Indonesia. The boys were so excited to see their buddies Clark and Andrew. I was horrible about taking pictures but we did have such a great time. One of the days the Nielsens sent us with their car and driver to Timan Safari, the zoo outside of Jakarta. What makes this zoo special is that you drive through it and feed the animals. On the road leading up to the zoo there is stand after stand selling carrots, bananas etc. You stock up and then head in. It is hilarious that you don't have to sign any waiver, or read any warning signs etc. Abby absolutely adores Curious George so when we gave her bananas to feed the monkeys I thought she was going to fall out of the car </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5670673911/" title="_MG_4923_5798proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5063/5670673911_722c296e3e_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_4923_5798proof" /></a></div><div>When she wasn't feeding them carrots, she was trying to kiss the camels through the window</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5671234130/" title="_MG_4914_5790 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5230/5671234130_bca955ccda_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_4914_5790" /></a></div><div>Liam loved the elephants who were reading their trunks over to us. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5670660405/" title="_MG_4909_5786proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5189/5670660405_464019108e_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_4909_5786proof" /></a></div><div>I loved that the hippos just laid there with their mouths open</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5670668461/" title="_MG_4917_5792 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5150/5670668461_78eaaa17cd_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_4917_5792" /></a></div><div>The zebras weren't shy about getting close and more then once I was afraid we were going to roll their lips up in the window ha!</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5669732440/" title="_MG_4900_5779 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5182/5669732440_986d45eb8a_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_4900_5779" /></a></div><div>At first the kiddos were a bit apprehensive about sticking the food out. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5669169111/" title="_MG_4903_5781proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5141/5669169111_9c952a872a_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_4903_5781proof" /></a></div><div>I was sort of afraid when a few of these guys surrounded the car</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5670662231/" title="_MG_4912_5789 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5061/5670662231_82deaf5e2c_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_4912_5789" /></a></div><div>We ran out of carrots but the boys still had fun hanging out the window looking at the animals. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5671240432/" title="_MG_4920_5795proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5026/5671240432_04b26644de_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_4920_5795proof" /></a></div><div>We rolled the windows up when we headed into the lions den and Lala our driver kinda booked it through :) After we got even closer to the elephants. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5671246770/" title="_MG_4933_5807proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5226/5671246770_8009f2234e_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_4933_5807proof" /></a></div><div>the boys were both really brave feeding them</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5670690183/" title="_MG_4946_5820proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5263/5670690183_d3e3eb25bf_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_4946_5820proof" /></a></div><div>Chris got them a bucket of carrots that went in less then a minute:</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5671253144/" title="_MG_4938_5812proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5302/5671253144_3cf6a6ba24_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_4938_5812proof" /></a></div><div>Abby was terrified when the elephant got to close</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5670686921/" title="_MG_4942_5816proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5070/5670686921_273c7c2f9f_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_4942_5816proof" /></a></div><div>To finish up we took a ride on the train, which Sam of course LOVED. Half way through it started LASHING down rain. The kids crawled into the back sit with Chris while I hovered in the front trying to keep the camera from getting drenched. We then hoped in the car and headed home. On the way home we got to experience the natorious Jakarta traffic. It took us over three hours to get home, which since we had a DVD player wouldn't have been so bad, except the air conditioning went out. By the time we got home the kids were basically in their undies and I was rubbing them down with ice from the cooler. Still totally worth it though! We then took all the kids to Snow Bay, a fun water park. I decided against bringing the camera :) The kids played like crazy until they were so tired Liam and Abby had some pretty fantastic melt downs. That night we got Cherylyn had called the ice skating rink and they told her they were open until nine. We got the kids all dressed in warm clothes (they all wanted to wear their coats, hats and gloves in the car). When we got there the kids were soooo excited. This is the kids waiting patiently, with Tanner in the background finding out that the rink in fact closed in ten minutes for hockey practice. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5670647335/" title="_MG_4890_5825proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5142/5670647335_220be90082_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_4890_5825proof" /></a></div><div>Yeah, it was a bummer. The boys were pretty good about it. We got them ice cream and they watched the zambonie and then the hockey players. I had to take a picture of this though. Clark was having a rough night and at one point refused to use his legs. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5672305662/" title="clarkdragproof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5226/5672305662_e277248176_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="clarkdragproof" /></a></div><div>I just thought it was so hilarious because seriously, what parent hasn't been there at some point? Of course I had to go to Mayestic (the fabric market) several times and Chris had 3 suits made out of gorgeous designer fabrics for 1/3 the cost you would ever find them anywhere else. Looking back we probably should have had more made since he will have to wear a suit every day in Paris. It was such a relaxing and yummy vacation (think fresh milk, cheese, yogurt and french butter) The highlight for me (aside from being with such wonderful friends) was going to a new resturant called Tin Pan Alley. We had two nannys stay will the six cuties while just us adults went out to dinner. Oh my gosh it was AMAZING. I loved everything about it, the black and white checked floors and subway art to the jam jars the strawberry lemonaide was delivered in (which had huge straws so you could actually enjoy the large chunks of strawberry). I of course went crazy and ordered an appatizer, a main course salad a steak with potatoes and verggies and a desert. I literally thought I was going to be sick after ha! Oh my goodness was it delicious though. There was a super cute poster on the wall that said "good food all depends on the company" and I couldn't agree more. The conversation was as good as the food :) We were sad to leave, especially since it meant getting up at 3:30am to make our 6am flight but we had to get back since I was in charge of the Embassy Easter egg hunt. While at the airport in Bali I grabbed four dozen doughnuts from Dunken doughnuts to bring with me and serve at the hunt (there is nothing like that in Timor). I had already bought several blueberry muffin mixes and cinnamon strussel crumb cake mixes to make and serve. We had over 80 people RSVP and I was a ball of nerves. I headed over early in the morning to hide the one thousand eggs (yes, 1,000 eggs). In the end I literally was just flinging them everywhere. Chris was great about getting the kids all dressed and ready with their baskets. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5670682333/" title="_MG_4969_5756proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5147/5670682333_7d35be3f4d_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_4969_5756proof" /></a></div><div>I LOVED Abby's Easter dress that my mom sent. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5670685419/" title="_MG_4973_5760proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5141/5670685419_8a09e2880b_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_4973_5760proof" /></a></div><div>Everyone kept asking me if I made it and I kept saying "Nope, it was all Granny!" </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5671244588/" title="_MG_4965_5752proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5309/5671244588_19907e5f82_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_4965_5752proof" /></a></div><div>We broke the hunt up into 3 and under in one area and over 3 in another. After finding a few eggs Abby was happy and just wanted to sit down and open them. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5670688159/" title="_MG_4977_5764proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5302/5670688159_6680f43a16_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_4977_5764proof" /></a></div><div>Sam and Liam on the other hand were nuts about it and wanted to find as many eggs as they could, especially the ones that had little starwars spaceships in them. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5670678617/" title="_MG_4968_5755proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5103/5670678617_e3c8ae6314_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_4968_5755proof" /></a></div><div>We order the eggs prefilled with toys from a great company that employees those with mental disabilities. it is so nice not to have to worry about candy melting on cute clothes or the kids getting all wired. When it was all said and done with had over 80 people, the Ambassadors house was still standing and I was EXHAUSTED. After clean up I came home and literally passed out asleep. While I was asleep Chris made lunch for the kids and thank heavens he took off Abby's dress because by the end she was wearing most of her lunch:</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5670689753/" title="IMG_4989_5772proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5306/5670689753_11c94f8d66_z.jpg" width="476" height="572" alt="IMG_4989_5772proof" /></a></div><div>We are not on count down to Sammy's birthday party, Disneyland and the cruise. With only five weeks left in Timor you can imagine we are crazy busy and enjoying our last few weeks of almost constant pool, park and beach time! </div></div></div></div>Crawford Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01188478429956721012noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816219428738530302.post-62270308062112660852011-03-08T22:57:00.000-08:002011-03-08T23:11:12.417-08:00Baby Pocus, Our Humble Abode and Sewing on the SeineWow, I feel bad for not posting in sooo long. But at the same time I have literally been feeling BAD. For those of you who don't know Chris and I are expecting baby number four!! We are thrilled, although with out giving to much yucky detail the toilet and I have gotten to know each other WAY to well in my opinion. I head to Singapore in a week for my ultrasound but Chris and I have decided that we are not going to be finding out what this munchikin is. We already have clothes and decor for either (and pretty much settled on a few names) so we thought we would let it be a fun surprise. Now we will see if this can remain unknown as it requires me to immedately tell ever doctor and nurse I see "we're not finding out!" and I did have one friend who had a doctor abroad who thought that was ridiculous and went a head and told her anyway! Liam has dubbed the baby "baby Pocus" I said "Like Hocus Pocus?" "Yup!" He also asked Chris and I "Will this baby be nice? And not pull my hair and bite me?" Um..... Abby has been going through a bit of a rough spot and I think the boys are beginning to notice. In other big news we closed on and now own our first home! We are desperate to see it but won't for 3 more months ughhhhhh. It is in our beloved Williamsburg (I love that our kids have a place to be "from") and I will fly out to see it in July, then promptly sign it with a rental company, boo. We also found out today where our next posting will be and we are still in complete shock, fabulous, wonderful, could not be more excited shock. Chris will return to DC for seven months in the New Year to learn French so that we can all head to Paris France!!! Chris woke me up this morning at 6am by saying Bonjour and I basically feel out of the bed screaming. Of course Paris won't be nearly as fun if we don't have visitors!!!! As if I had to sell it, but just so you know we will be a 1.15 train ride to London, flights round trip to Scotland and Ireland are 50 bucks and well, basically everywhere in Europe is a quick cheap train ride. I am already trying to talk Chris into going to Transylvania for one of the halloweens ha! So there you have it! Over load of news and no pictures, rare for me ha!Crawford Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01188478429956721012noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816219428738530302.post-37524392528260923922011-02-19T16:15:00.000-08:002011-02-19T16:20:31.789-08:00Project Run and pLay FinaleThe last few weeks I have been taking part in a sewing competition called Project Run and Play. This week is the finale! <div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5456229050/" title="coat 2 collage by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5099/5456229050_95095ccbc1_z.jpg" width="640" height="295" alt="coat 2 collage" /></a></div><div>I am still surprised I made it this far! If you get a chance and don't mind hoping over and voting for my dress I would love it! </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5458124189/" title="Picnik collage by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5178/5458124189_3f457da3a9_z.jpg" width="640" height="393" alt="Picnik collage" /></a></div><div>Things are looking pretty dire voting wise ha! Click <a href="http://projectrunandplay.blogspot.com/">HERE</a> to go vote. You can see better pics of the outfit <a href="http://sewingin-nomansland.blogspot.com/">HERE</a>. </div><div>Thanks!</div><div><div><br /><div><br /></div></div></div>Crawford Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01188478429956721012noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816219428738530302.post-76395306809897659992011-02-12T05:06:00.000-08:002011-02-12T05:40:49.731-08:00We will ROCK you!I have found one of the fun things about working for the gov't (or in DC) is the sports teams you can be a part of. While Chris was in Iraq I played for a softball team and we would play games on Saturday mornings on the Mall close to the Washington monument. Each Saturday I would have what my friend Meredith calls an "ah-ha" moment as I stood in awe of the Washington monument and thought about how blessed I was to be an American. Here in Timor the softball games continue! The Japanese embassy challenged us to a game (second year in a row) and we of course accepted. Our wonderful neighbor Brenda agreed to play with us so I wouldn't be the only girl. Then at practice she got pelted with a softball which compounded a soccer injury received earlier in the week, so it was just me... and all the Sea Bees (the military detachment here). You had to have a girl on the field the whole time (I mentioned this was derogatory to women but everyone just laughed). The Japanese fans were out in force with flags, music coolers etc. We had our kids and the Hiemstra's cuties wandering around until they just couldn't take it and had to leave for morning naps. Not before Adrean ate her weight in dirt though.<br /><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5438693658/" title="IMG_2755_3783proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5179/5438693658_33f0de3c77_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="IMG_2755_3783proof" /></a></div><div>We had a huge local audience hang about on the outskirts of the field and up on the walls. We took the field first and out Sea Bee's pitcher "Murphy" (man did this bring back memories hearing "murph" be yelled on the softball field) began pitching. Of course he did slow pitch because that is what we were under the impression we would be doing. The inning ends and as we grab throw gloves and grab bats we see the pitcher warming up, with lots of speed on those softballs. What the what? I think something had literally been lost in translation. Thankfully I didn't was number 8 to bat. Chris was excited to try out the "sports" dial on my camera. On the first pitch he caught the getting ready to whined up</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5438059223/" title="IMG_2773_3802 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5259/5438059223_3d2632d261_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="IMG_2773_3802" /></a></div><div>The whined up</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5438084047/" title="IMG_2776_3804 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5180/5438084047_ba3f202eb2_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="IMG_2776_3804" /></a></div><div>and the hit</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5438688984/" title="IMG_2777_3805 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5300/5438688984_861d7d9d89_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="IMG_2777_3805" /></a></div><div>It was a pretty good hit if I do say so myself. I ran to first and then heard someone saying "go! Go! And instead of just listening I turn around and say "Oh hi!" to the first base coach. Yeah I am pretty awesome. But it gets better. After making it to third and staying there the next batter hits a pop fly. I take off running TOTALLY forgetting you need to tag up if they catch the ball. I hear the third base coach yell "Come back! Come back!" and instead of coming back I yell "Why?" What is with me questioning authority? I just need to do as I am told. Of course the ball gets thrown to third and I am out, making it a double play... ughhhh. Anyway we were getting seriously slaughtered and I joke about a Mercy rule until the bottom of the 6th where the Americans made their big come back! The game ended 17-16 with USA the winners!! Woo hoo! Of course they want a rematch when Pacific Partnership comes (a group of ships in the same category as the Mercy but from Japan this time not the US) so we will see what happens. In other news this Thursday was a big movie night at the school. They had 3 different movies playing for the different age groups and your ticket (which was not cheap by the by) included popcorn and juice. Sam and Liam went to Toy Story 3 because Free Willy looked to "scary". The parents got to buy drinks and food from the snack bar and hang out. The next day there was no school so I had mentioned we rented the bounce house from the Embassy and would have our huge inflatable water slide going if people wanted to come by. By mid-morning we had 15 cuties playing in the yard! </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5438716004/" title="_MG_2842_3852 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4097/5438716004_3a5d8d4056_z.jpg" width="640" height="402" alt="_MG_2842_3852" /></a></div><div>I could not get a clear picture because they were all running or biking around like mad people.</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5438107567/" title="_MG_2850_3860proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5093/5438107567_ac3f66d6a3_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2850_3860proof" /></a></div><div>Add in the swing set and a slip n slide and everyone was teasing me that we should charge an entry fee and treat our yard like an amusement park. It was just nice to have so much fun packed in a day that otherwise would have been filled with boredom and most likely a lot of whining :) Sammy and Liam have TOTALLY immersed themselves into the art table I had made for them. They are constantly coloring, cutting, taping and bringing us creations and drawing. I am loving it! This last weekend Sam made a ton of pictures and put them all up on the wall with magnets (having metal walls does have its perks!) He then had one magnet outside the door that was the doorbell. I was to push the "doorbell" and he would open the door and let me in to his exhibit. He then took me around to each of his pictures and told me about it and requested I take pictures of him and his artwork. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5438056869/" title="_MG_2792_3820 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5051/5438056869_2672e044da_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_2792_3820" /></a></div><div>It was so cute. A lot of his creations he referred to as "prototypes", maybe there is something even bigger in the works I have to look forward to! I am just thrilled he inherited my moms artistic love and I think talent, then again I am only the tiniest bit bias! I have also been wanting to get pictures of the kids with a similar background and get big Canvas prints of them for our living room. Of course Sam was a pro:</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5429676703/" title="_MG_2721_3826proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5216/5429676703_aafcc5d28f_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2721_3826proof" /></a></div><div>Liam was okay:</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5429680365/" title="_MG_2748_3848proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5020/5429680365_5e38a26952_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2748_3848proof" /></a></div><div>And abby wouldn't even sit down AND was COVERED in dirt by the time I got to her. I guess we will try again later :) Chris is off in Hawaii this week so it is me and the kids. I really don't mind during the week since it is always super hectic at our house with play dates and two school schedules to keep up with, but the weekends are not so fun. We miss him already and Sammy asked why Daddy hadn't called the computer yet and he only left this afternoon :) But it does mean fun surprises from the states and I am sure Daddy will enjoy his hotel on Waikiki. His job really is so rough :) </div><div><div><br /></div></div>Crawford Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01188478429956721012noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816219428738530302.post-50292941646806730882011-02-04T05:41:00.000-08:002011-02-04T06:49:43.374-08:00We have been busy....I feel awful for not updating the blog in so long, but what can I say, things have been crazy busy around here. Lemers, who has up until now been attending his cute little Dili Sprouts school 3 days a week was dubbed to advanced for it and has started attending the morning class at QSI (Sam's school) This means I am driving around Dili ALOT. He is loving it though which makes it totallyworth it! Abby, who hadn't broken a tooth for months upon months suddenly broke two molars and has two more coming in. Lets just say our little "princess" is being a royal grump lately :) Sammy is as social as ever and had me run raged this week with several play dates everyday. Chris has been working lots of overtime after the Staffdel visit and gearing up for a Congressional Visit. We are set to receive our bid list next Friday (we had a false start last week). We are both freaking out with excitement to find out where we are going next. In fun Dili news last weekend there was a bike/run race. Several of my girlfriends who are gearing up for the Tour De Timor this year entered. While they raced Chris and I wrangled all the cuties! We wanted to take them down to see their parents race. This ended up being hilarious because of course the road was closed so we had to figure out how to get everyone to the finish line. <div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5403000461/" title="_MG_2471_3536proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5213/5403000461_9b9fb3a67c_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_2471_3536proof" /></a></div><div>We broke out the wagon, two strollers and the ergo (that is out friend Susan in the pic who is expecting her first baby soon!) Along the way we got to cheer on the mommies that ran past. Jeanne had taken a little tumble on her bike and was very happy to see Tiavan. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5400997518/" title="_MG_2469_3534proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5134/5400997518_999ec12419_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2469_3534proof" /></a></div><div>Sammy, Roman and Noah decided they wanted to get in on the racing action. Liam decided about a minute later to join them and it was so cute to watch him try and catch up. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5403601638/" title="_MG_2473_3538proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5251/5403601638_d385f13c28_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2473_3538proof" /></a></div><div>We waited at the finish line with our poster for Amanda's parents</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5403605132/" title="_MG_2479_3544proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5259/5403605132_0eb69887e0_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_2479_3544proof" /></a></div><div>Roman, Noah and Mace's mommy Krista came in second!</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5403008307/" title="_MG_2480_3545proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5091/5403008307_e2c9f99117_z.jpg" width="383" height="640" alt="_MG_2480_3545proof" /></a></div><div>Amanda's Mommy Meredith came in third:</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5403003319/" title="_MG_2477_3542proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5178/5403003319_fd771fd930_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2477_3542proof" /></a></div><div>They really liked the poster the boys made for them</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5403011969/" title="_MG_2484_3549proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5097/5403011969_b76a8928d9_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2484_3549proof" /></a></div><div>Jeanne came in fourth and was so fun to watch</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5403616560/" title="_MG_2491_3556proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5012/5403616560_4c33ec04a1_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2491_3556proof" /></a></div><div>Tiavan was so worried about her and kept asking where she was. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5403619380/" title="_MG_2493_3558proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5138/5403619380_8db3321061_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2493_3558proof" /></a></div><div>Abby spent the entire time chillin in the stroller and eating snacks. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5416014344/" title="_MG_2499_3564proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5294/5416014344_619a7231b8_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2499_3564proof" /></a></div><div>We have been wanting to get pictures of the boys we some of the UN police that abound here in Timor, you know so when they grow up we can say "look you totally lived in a place patrolled by the UN"</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5400992718/" title="_MG_2464_3530proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5294/5400992718_70d6230056_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_2464_3530proof" /></a></div><div>They are always so nice and handed me their cameras to take pictures :) The race went right past the presidents house which has guards who are a bit more serious... and way better armed. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5415441559/" title="_MG_2514_3578proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5015/5415441559_2bf463d1a2_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2514_3578proof" /></a></div><div>On the home front there has been a baby gecko living in Liam's bed net. We don't mind so much as they eat mosquitoes and Liam thinks it is pretty cool :)</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5416055694/" title="_MG_2517_3580proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4093/5416055694_f40d5c3b47_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_2517_3580proof" /></a></div><div>We have been LOVING our new playground and Abby is anxiously awaiting her baby swing.</div><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 427px; height: 640px;" src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5045/5332263793_0e5a39c118_z.jpg" border="0" alt="" /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /><div><br /></div></div>Crawford Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01188478429956721012noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816219428738530302.post-17949272815559162011-01-08T07:48:00.000-08:002011-01-08T08:01:57.855-08:00New Years Eve- Dili StyleEverything is laid back here in Dili (unless we are in crisis mode which seems to happen often at the embassy ha!) So we approached New Years eve with that in mind. Most of our friends left the island for the holidays so those of us that were still hear got together at our house with the BBQ, the bounce house and some face paint. The kids had a blast. Sammy LOVES Briggs who is a few years older then him but very patient with him. They played "Agents" most of the night. And when I asked how they wanted their faces painted they said "like agents" I responded "what does that mean?" and since they couldn't articulate it they got spiders. <div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5313660169/" title="_MG_1355_2523proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5290/5313660169_9f4f625b7e_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_1355_2523proof" /></a></div><div>I thought Amanda would want a butterfly or flowers but she wanted spiders too</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5313661829/" title="_MG_1359_2527proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5085/5313661829_96bbbca43a_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_1359_2527proof" /></a></div><div>Liam wanted (read mom talked him into) a dragon </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5313671797/" title="_MG_1422_2589proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5087/5313671797_180d9b396d_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_1422_2589proof" /></a></div><div>This is what it looks like when he is a grumpy dragon</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5314273316/" title="_MG_1352_2520proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5126/5314273316_dcef8158cb_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_1352_2520proof" /></a></div><div>Addie did not want her face painted but was excited about sparklers... although she doesn't look it in this picture, and we did turn her sparkler right side up. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5314250746/" title="_MG_1368_2536proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5127/5314250746_fdc5eb0dbc_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_1368_2536proof" /></a></div><div>It is nice having a big yard when firewords are involved because we can kind keep the kids away from each other. Although I think my constant "Don't run with your sparkler!!!" Probably sucked some fun out of it</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5313675135/" title="_MG_1393_2561proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5170/5313675135_e0ac59bf0b_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_1393_2561proof" /></a></div><div>We tried doing the whole write your name thing, but it doesn't work so well when it is still bright out. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5314259150/" title="_MG_1383_2551proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5044/5314259150_bee3ce60c0_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_1383_2551proof" /></a></div><div>It is fun to play with the focus on the camera when fire is involved</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5313653601/" title="_MG_1371_2539proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5005/5313653601_2d90690640_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_1371_2539proof" /></a></div><div>Although I would suggest a zoom lens not a prime in the future. I got some nice sparks zappin me.</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5314261646/" title="_MG_1416_2583proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5282/5314261646_69a4460c0a_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_1416_2583proof" /></a></div><div>Liam would beg for more every time his went out and I figured since we weren't going to be here for the fourth we might as well. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5313658279/" title="_MG_1410_2577proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5004/5313658279_fd74c9fd6d_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_1410_2577proof" /></a></div><div>I think they ended up doing 4 or 5 each. Then there was lots of snacking</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5314271516/" title="_MG_1357_2525proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5041/5314271516_f527812fbd_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_1357_2525proof" /></a></div><div>The kids headed to bed around 9:30 and Chris and I literally stayed up until 12:03 then zonked. But that is kinda how it is when you are parents! I think one year I am going to make an effort to go to a glamorous party. Maybe when we are at some big huge embassy. For now I kind like Dili style!</div>Crawford Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01188478429956721012noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816219428738530302.post-14625884243159833332011-01-04T06:44:00.000-08:002011-01-04T06:55:29.294-08:00We have a HOUSE!!Well it is getting there at least! Katie was kind enough to send us some photographic updates on our house and I am jumping out of my seat I am so excited. Although when I think about the fact that we will not be living in it anytime soon I get pretty sad. So this is the front of the house. <div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5323988628/" title="20101231_3649proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5049/5323988628_dce337937d_z.jpg" width="640" height="425" alt="20101231_3649proof" /></a></div><div>It is a duplex and when seeing it next to the smaller one I am sooo glad we went with the larger one. This is the side view. I LOVE how many windows there are. If I had my way there would be even more but something about structurally unsound... </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5323381387/" title="20101231_3651proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5249/5323381387_d3d126c4bf_z.jpg" width="640" height="425" alt="20101231_3651proof" /></a></div><div>And this is the back. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5323982780/" title="20101231_3653proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5128/5323982780_169a094c22_z.jpg" width="640" height="425" alt="20101231_3653proof" /></a></div><div>Which leads out to our cute little garage. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5323985068/" title="20101231_3652proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5121/5323985068_1e01ef0760_z.jpg" width="640" height="425" alt="20101231_3652proof" /></a></div><div>There is just enough of a yard to put in a giant trampoline ha! We don't have to worry about a swing set because the park is directly across from our front door, ah heaven! Then there are all the walking trails that lead to Colonial Williamsburg and, well, I just think it is the perfect place. Now, does anyone know a GOOD family in Williamsburg that needs and amazing four bedroom place? :)</div><div><br /></div>Crawford Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01188478429956721012noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816219428738530302.post-67405391410372503412010-12-29T06:57:00.000-08:002010-12-29T07:20:54.255-08:00Making Christmas HappenWe have been having a very busy and very fun December. It started out with the school Christmas performance. Sammy's class and the morning class sang their song "Making Christmas happen". <div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5272001249/" title="IMG_1993proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5085/5272001249_169fd19c5b_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="IMG_1993proof" /></a></div><div>They used their recycled "creation" hammers as props. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5272002649/" title="IMG_1995proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5169/5272002649_33d9f9a1c8_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="IMG_1995proof" /></a></div><div>Sammy's was made out of a water bottle and empty yogurt tubs. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5272004137/" title="IMG_2005proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5125/5272004137_177cd814fa_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="IMG_2005proof" /></a></div><div>I thought his face make up was adorable</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5272005877/" title="IMG_2008proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5122/5272005877_e13656c700_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="IMG_2008proof" /></a></div><div>We also got to have breakfast with Santa at the embassy! The kids were so excited and nervous all at once. They decided to all hold hands on the way in. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5271376284/" title="_MG_0526proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5084/5271376284_a8f6b47b99_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_0526proof" /></a></div><div> Abby LOVED her eggies and muffins</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5271388306/" title="_MG_0536proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5086/5271388306_c25c64b521_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_0536proof" /></a></div><div>I have decided it is impossible to get a good picture of kids when there is more then three ha!</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5271380244/" title="_MG_0533 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5249/5271380244_f5b448a9b8_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_0533" /></a></div><div>Addie had on the cutest little smocked Christmas dress. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5270777585/" title="_MG_0535proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5084/5270777585_7c5119e974_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_0535proof" /></a></div><div>It was hard not to let the kiddos plow through the candy. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5270785383/" title="_MG_0543 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5007/5270785383_ffe9dcbc2b_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_0543" /></a></div><div>Liam liked the snowmen decorations</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5271391640/" title="_MG_0537 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5164/5271391640_a43591a28e_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_0537" /></a></div><div>and of course his daddy</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5270788315/" title="_MG_0545proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5165/5270788315_0aa67e3d20_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_0545proof" /></a></div><div>When we had finished eating the guest of honor came out!</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5270793631/" title="_MG_0550 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5249/5270793631_8904934c91_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_0550" /></a></div><div>Sammy was so excited I loved it!</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5271406494/" title="_MG_0552proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5245/5271406494_ec69d42a24_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_0552proof" /></a></div><div>The local kiddos were just as in awe</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5270800959/" title="_MG_0555 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5048/5270800959_f8c3cb76a5_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_0555" /></a></div><div>He couldn't stop clapping and laughing</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5270806973/" title="_MG_0564 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5246/5270806973_f068fed99e_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_0564" /></a></div><div>Santa asked who had been good this year and the boys shot their hands up</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5271420776/" title="_MG_0574proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5007/5271420776_feb272d970_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_0574proof" /></a></div><div>Then Santa started pulling out the gifts. Liam walked right up when his name was called</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5270821979/" title="_MG_0581proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5090/5270821979_d02016d8f5_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_0581proof" /></a></div><div>Sammy was excited but just a tinsy bit nervous</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5270833029/" title="_MG_0586proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5205/5270833029_e31b40ee4c_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_0586proof" /></a></div><div>Abby was terrified and screamed the second she was put near him. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5271968419/" title="_MG_0599proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5046/5271968419_da09698bf0_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_0599proof" /></a></div><div>There is always one and this time it was ours ;)</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5272579774/" title="_MG_0600proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5167/5272579774_03c9f26991_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_0600proof" /></a></div><div>Liam couldn't wait to open his and was pretty excited</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5272582356/" title="_MG_0602proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5087/5272582356_b43c65d1f0_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_0602proof" /></a></div><div>Adrienne was pretty darn excited herself</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5271975705/" title="_MG_0608 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5245/5271975705_c6c5c952fe_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_0608" /></a></div><div>Everyone was teasing me about how cheeser my kids are and how you can totally tell their mom is a photographer</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5271977485/" title="_MG_0616proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5007/5271977485_00b32e7fc3_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_0616proof" /></a></div><div>The local kids were so wonderfully patient and none of them opened their presents. They all took them home. I was so impressed! Right after we took the boys to get their hair cuts. This is how cool Timor is, at the Thai food restaurant you can get yummy food, a hair cut a message and anything else you might like. The boys had so much fun on their rubber donkeys</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5272588330/" title="_MG_0640proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5123/5272588330_45ba1ca640_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_0640proof" /></a></div><div>Sammy named his "hehaw, because he says hehaw" of course. Abby really loved the other one but was MAD when I made her turn around for a picture. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5272589910/" title="_MG_0641proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5044/5272589910_540376ff08_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_0641proof" /></a></div><div>I tried to talk Chris into getting them one for Christmas but it was a no go :) They did get pretty spoiled. But that will have to wait for another post :) </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Crawford Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01188478429956721012noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816219428738530302.post-74491881124862487672010-12-09T04:43:00.000-08:002010-12-09T05:07:40.772-08:00Riding Elephants and mopedsLuckily our villa came with a daily driver but with traffic as bottle necked as it is it took 40 minutes just to get to the beach. Our solution? Rent two mopeds and pile on! <div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5246517410/" title="IMG_4203proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5204/5246517410_85804285cf_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="IMG_4203proof" /></a></div><div>I actually decided for Chris to make two runs. The boys LOVED the moped and begged for rides.</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5245924455/" title="IMG_4200 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5167/5245924455_a6815a6fed_z.jpg" width="480" height="640" alt="IMG_4200" /></a></div><div>Abby loved the helmet. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5245847501/" title="IMG_4198proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5002/5245847501_4149c4fb3a_z.jpg" width="480" height="640" alt="IMG_4198proof" /></a></div><div> What was great about them was we could take the tiny backroads only mopeds can fit on, through gorgeous rice paddies right to the beach. The beach by the villa was deserted when we got there and we found out why. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5245839749/" title="IMG_4209 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5201/5245839749_96be8d10db_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="IMG_4209" /></a></div><div>There is an old women sitting under a palapa who the locals bring their babies too when they are 3 months old. She touches their feet to the sand for the first time. I thought it was such a cool thing. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5245837445/" title="IMG_4207 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5241/5245837445_7e5d27d1af_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="IMG_4207" /></a></div><div>Thats not the only thing the kiddos got to ride, ELEPHANTS! </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5245851403/" title="IMG_4111proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5123/5245851403_bc0e3b216b_z.jpg" width="480" height="640" alt="IMG_4111proof" /></a></div><div>Abby and I skipped it this time but the boys had a blast. Clark and Andrews elephant was named Andrew which they got a kick out of. Sam and Liam were bummed that theirs was a girl because they wanted one with tusks. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5245854993/" title="IMG_4117proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5283/5245854993_08227b684e_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="IMG_4117proof" /></a></div><div>Liam was a tiny but scared when they went in the water</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5246458488/" title="IMG_4130proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5081/5246458488_3c99b19e02_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="IMG_4130proof" /></a></div><div>Mom was a little worried when the elephant balanced on a piling</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5245861029/" title="IMG_4137proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5209/5245861029_fb9885877d_z.jpg" width="480" height="640" alt="IMG_4137proof" /></a></div><div>Afterwards we got to go up to their alarming petting zoo. They had baby orangoutangs in diapers that I wouldn't let the boys near. Before I could stop them there was a snack around Liam's neck</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5246465470/" title="IMG_4171proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5086/5246465470_6d0a02f56d_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="IMG_4171proof" /></a></div><div>Abby kept her distance from all the monkeys in aviary type cages</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5245866793/" title="IMG_4182proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5166/5245866793_69b8cd92ec_z.jpg" width="480" height="640" alt="IMG_4182proof" /></a></div><div>It was so much fun seeing all the kids become friends. Even Abby and Audrey dug each other... well until Abby would poke her eyes and try to hug her</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5246444662/" title="IMG_4191 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5045/5246444662_7590a7ec94_z.jpg" width="579" height="640" alt="IMG_4191" /></a></div><div>Sam has already asked to go back to Bali, then he changed it to Clark and Andrew coming to visit him, we'll have to see, maybe there will be a trip to Jakarta in the spring :)</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Crawford Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01188478429956721012noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816219428738530302.post-89307480061645938902010-12-02T05:07:00.000-08:002010-12-02T06:00:50.132-08:00I would like to live in this restaurantThe food never disappoints in Bali, the taste, the presentation, the atmosphere, you name it and it is awesome. The first day we ventured out of the villa we went to Cafe Bali<div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5223981806/" title="IMG_3916 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4091/5223981806_c1b6af9420.jpg" width="375" height="500" alt="IMG_3916" /></a></div><div>Our poor driver I am sure thought we were NUTS. The boys all pilled in the back and the volume back there reached incredible levels, so many "excuse me guys?" (Both our kids "politely" say excuse me 500 times when they want to say something, it was hilarious listening to it go back and forth). </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5223376333/" title="IMG_3893-1 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4151/5223376333_f0a8e18045_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="IMG_3893-1" /></a></div><div>The minute we stepped onto the porch of the restaurant I leaned over to Chris and said: "I want to live in this restaurant" So now I am photo documenting the resturant so later I can go back and try to duplicate some of their awesome decor.</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5223383655/" title="IMG_3910 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5286/5223383655_aba79666de_z.jpg" width="480" height="640" alt="IMG_3910" /></a></div><div>The inside didn't disappoint either. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5223988238/" title="IMG_3902 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5241/5223988238_41e198f85f_z.jpg" width="480" height="640" alt="IMG_3902" /></a></div><div>The lighting fixtures were so cool</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5223978078/" title="IMG_3905 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5006/5223978078_c7833052d1_z.jpg" width="480" height="640" alt="IMG_3905" /></a></div><div>and I loved their wall of mirrors</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5223379709/" title="IMG_3904 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4111/5223379709_b54ce00a67_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="IMG_3904" /></a></div><div>Then this little area was tucked away in a corner and was completely different from the rest</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5223378573/" title="IMG_3903 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5001/5223378573_6f94fc86fb_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="IMG_3903" /></a></div><div>I love hydrangeas, they made up a large portion of my wedding bouquet so I have been in heaven finding them every where in Bali</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5223377373/" title="IMG_3901 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4153/5223377373_f50fb860cc_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="IMG_3901" /></a></div><div>My own complaint would be how HOT is was. We were all sweating bullets. (did you notice in the pictures all the dudes either without shirts or in tank tops? Yeah we were in a total time warp back to 1985). Our boys were "glistening" ha!</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5223382061/" title="IMG_3907 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5204/5223382061_cca9495295_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="IMG_3907" /></a></div><div>The food was fabulous and although Abby had a meltdown we really enjoyed ourselves and if we go back to Seminyak I will absolutely be eating there again. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5223984130/" title="IMG_3920 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5287/5223984130_c8cd8d0bef_z.jpg" width="640" height="484" alt="IMG_3920" /></a></div><div>After lunch the boys graciously took ALL the kiddos back to the villa so Cher and I could shop (Seminyak is known for its shopping so we were pretty excited). My friend had told me about this children's store Clara Mia that carried clothes by a french lady that were to die for. Cher and I walked past and they were closed for lunch and we peered in and it looked like there were only a handful of dresses in the whole store. I thought aw great it is one of THOSE stores. We started walking down the street and that is when a massive thunderstorm let loose. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5225836979/" title="IMG_3928 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5166/5225836979_a9c833d59e_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="IMG_3928" /></a></div><div>We were stuck in this random clothing store with CRAZY prices and store clerks who shrieked everytime the thunder would clap. FInally it let up and we headed back to Clara Mia. It totally lived up to the hype. I wanted to buy EVERYTHING in the store. But it was expensive so I walked out with one outfit. I totally tried to sneak pictures of some of the other outfits because I could totally make some of it but would never remember what they looked like. Cher was great at distracting the girl while I snapped some hilariously bad pictures with the camera down by my leg. We were so covert haa!</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5226452036/" title="IMG_3930 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5125/5226452036_6c95062a23_z.jpg" width="480" height="640" alt="IMG_3930" /></a></div><div> I am TOTALLY going to make these sailor shorts for Abby! </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5225854845/" title="IMG_3929 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5125/5225854845_0d55e1bd8e_z.jpg" width="480" height="640" alt="IMG_3929" /></a></div><div>We also stocked up on decor for Abby and Audrey's rooms and I am soooo excited to start setting it up... and figuring out how to make pale green, metal walls look okay.... I love a challenge and all but this one is tough. In the end it was sort of overwhelming shopping there. There was just WAY too many streets all jam packed with tiny shops which were in turn jam packed full of merchandise. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Crawford Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01188478429956721012noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816219428738530302.post-19890883851473614942010-12-01T06:56:00.000-08:002010-12-01T07:24:33.598-08:00Thanksgiving in BaliWe packed up the fam and headed to Bali last wednesday to celebrate Thanksgiving with our wonderful friends from the "Burg the Nielsen's. They are, serendipitously enough, working for the State Dept. in Jakarta! (I am actually once again staying with them as I write this trying to get this tooth that will not be mended fixed ughhhhhhhh) We had decided this time instead of a hotel to rent one of the millions of villas we always see for rent. We got a steal of a deal on what was described as a four bedroom with a pool. When we showed up I just about keeled over and died it was so gorgeous! When you walk in the wooden doors we were greeted of course by a gorgeous hindu statue and walked along a rocky path back to the "villa". The first courtyard looked like this:<div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5223194205/" title="_MG_9852 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5165/5223194205_4c1502526e_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_9852" /></a></div><div>To the right of this is a building with two large bedrooms each with their own bathrooms. This was were the four boys slept. They got to share a bed, but it was a pretty big bed so I didn't feel too bad ha!</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5223792854/" title="_MG_9853 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5084/5223792854_eb5ca03f6c_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_9853" /></a></div><div>When you stood on their "porch" you faced our outdoor living room/ dinning room:</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5223192027/" title="_MG_9854 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4152/5223192027_4b31da9b22_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_9854" /></a></div><div>This was completely surrounded by a "moat" of sorts with couy fish and gorgeous moss covered water features. Sammy LOVED the fish</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5223195055/" title="_MG_9846 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4153/5223195055_bdcc7d7d13_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_9846" /></a></div><div>to the left of the living room was our kitchen, laundry room and office. If you walked through the living room and down the beautiful-yet-heart-attack-inducing-when-you-have-an-18 month-old-walking-around-steps: </div><div>\<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5223186181/" title="_MG_9862 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5001/5223186181_af17bcffe5_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_9862" /></a></div><div>You get to the two master suites. Both free standing with a courtyard in the middle:</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5223188401/" title="_MG_9858 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4148/5223188401_a3597d6e5f_b.jpg" width="634" height="950" alt="_MG_9858" /></a></div><div>Everywhere you looked there were flowers. Even when you went inside your room the beds and side tables had flowers</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5223783684/" title="_MG_9857 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4108/5223783684_ef17b81912_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_9857" /></a></div><div>They even stuck them in between the shampoo and conditioner</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5223793618/" title="_MG_9872 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5206/5223793618_f1e47cc709_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_9872" /></a></div><div>I LOVE the smell of gardenia so I was in heaven! If you walked down our porch and around the corner you came to the pool. Cher and I were REALLY nervous about having our own pool, excited, but soooo nervous. I had actually decided to keep Abby in a life jacket the entire time. We were lucky though and it was zero issue. The fact that it was kid of out of the way and you had to walk past a mommy daddy room to get to it made it easy to guard. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5223786396/" title="_MG_9859 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5168/5223786396_4f59c5fd86_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_9859" /></a></div><div>We got soooooooo much use out of it. The kids LOVED being in it and we loved playing with them or relaxing on the cabana</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5223190665/" title="_MG_9861 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5124/5223190665_45663122f0_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_9861" /></a></div><div>We all loved being there so much it took a while for us to even want to go anywhere else. Add into that the fact that directly next to our villa was the hotel restaurant where we got our yummy breakfast every morning and had we wanted to we could have been perfectly happy never leaving it ha! But we did and I have lots of fun pictures of the kids riding mopeds and elephants and playing at the beach. But since Abby is totally getting up at 4:30am (I do not like you jet lag) and it is 10pm I am going to sleep :)</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Crawford Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01188478429956721012noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816219428738530302.post-23371044804626291602010-11-13T23:20:00.000-08:002010-11-13T23:38:48.327-08:00Fall FestivalLast week Sammy's school had their fall festival to raise money for one of the many orphanges here in Timor. Since they do not celebrate Halloween at school they said the kids could wear their costumes if they wanted. Well of course the boys were all over that!<div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5170848552/" title="IMG_1163proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4125/5170848552_a71d4cdea9_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="IMG_1163proof" /></a><br /><div><a src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4125/5170848552_a71d4cdea9_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="IMG_1163proof"></a></div><div>Sam was excited to see his partner if crime fighting Bumblebee</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5170247005/" title="IMG_1157proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4133/5170247005_239442fe59_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="IMG_1157proof" /></a></div><div><a src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4133/5170247005_239442fe59_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="IMG_1157proof"></a></div><div>Since Liam REALLY wants a bumblebee costume he was pretty excited to get his face painted to look like him. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5170850054/" title="IMG_1169proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4127/5170850054_cdd7534fae_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="IMG_1169proof" /></a></div><div><a src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4127/5170850054_cdd7534fae_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="IMG_1169proof"></a></div><div>Even though he changed out of his costume Sammy was still Optimus Prime. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5170250227/" title="IMG_1178proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4124/5170250227_839155b7b7_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="IMG_1178proof" /></a></div><div><a src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4124/5170250227_839155b7b7_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="IMG_1178proof"></a></div><div>What can I say these boys LOVE robots. I am researching retro ones for Christmas but I am pretty sure they will be bummed if they aren't Transformers. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5170851908/" title="IMG_1187proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4085/5170851908_ef2d39aacc_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="IMG_1187proof" /></a></div><div><a src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4085/5170851908_ef2d39aacc_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="IMG_1187proof"></a></div><div>Over the weekend we made some crafts aka Wall-E</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5170866964/" title="_MG_9611_0211 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4084/5170866964_9a4dbae28d_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_9611_0211" /></a></div><div><a src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4084/5170866964_9a4dbae28d_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_9611_0211"></a></div><div>Flowers</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5170468789/" title="_MG_9682_0440proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4110/5170468789_b2046581c2_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_9682_0440proof" /></a></div><div><a src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4110/5170468789_b2046581c2_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_9682_0440proof"></a></div><div>And found Abby's favorite new thing, getting dragged around in the laundry basket</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5170470939/" title="_MG_9696_0454 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4151/5170470939_bf68d09636_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_9696_0454" /></a></div><div>Also my prophecy of Abby being a Tom Boy is already coming true:</div><div><a src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4129/5171071704_c570b2a2de_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_9685_0443proof"></a></div><div>The guard got to watch us use sidewalk chalk to create all sorts of under sea animals. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5170490453/" title="IMG_1371_0434proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4089/5170490453_1f11886a8a_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="IMG_1371_0434proof" /></a></div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5171091056/" title="IMG_1368_0428proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4085/5171091056_32a2c979ce_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="IMG_1368_0428proof" /></a></div><div>He was also pretty nervous about Abby standing on the gate. Even here in Timor I get the "should you be letting your child do that looks" ha!</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5171092372/" title="IMG_1376_0416 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4084/5171092372_09bdaeed3b_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="IMG_1376_0416" /></a></div><div>We are gearing up for our Thanksgiving Trip to Bali. We will be meeting our friends Tanner and Cherylyn and their cuties and am I sooooooooo excited. It has only been 2 months since Italy but it feels like we haven't been off the Island in years ha! </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Crawford Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01188478429956721012noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816219428738530302.post-80151221470478094652010-10-31T01:44:00.000-07:002010-10-31T03:03:36.282-07:00Boo!The kiddos were really excited for Halloween this year. <div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5076470745/" title="cherubrockproof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4003/5076470745_81625536d6_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="cherubrockproof" /></a></div><div>Liam kept going back and forth between being spiderman and a ghost. He REALLY wanted to be Bumble Bee from transformers but he decided that about five weeks to late :) <div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5077544976/" title="_MG_3332 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4048/5077544976_b15bc27f53_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_3332" /></a></div><div>I took full advantage of Abby not knowing what was going on and made her a cherub<div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5077544008/" title="_MG_3317 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4040/5077544008_b23d52a6cf_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_3317" /></a></div><div>I was really suprised she left on the headband and wings as long as she did</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5076482265/" title="_MG_3316proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4009/5076482265_c3330a3689_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_3316proof" /></a></div><div>Sammy was Optimus Prime and refused to let us fix the mask that was smooshed in the mail. He thought since it came like that it was supposed to be like that.</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5077063904/" title="_MG_3336 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4105/5077063904_472f5427f8_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_3336" /></a></div><div>I made all the kids trick or treat bags because sadly enough I never did find out Halloween items (both orange and black tubs held random winter clothes, apparently my attempt at color coordinating holidays with storage containers didn't work). </div></div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5076485849/" title="_MG_3338 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4060/5076485849_4cc59f980d_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_3338" /></a></div></div><div>We had a really fun trunk or treat party at our compound. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5131372206/" title="_MG_9408 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1144/5131372206_9cf04e483e_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_9408" /></a></div><div>It was so much fun seeing people who had never trick or treated before enjoy their first time and of course all the babies!!</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5130749457/" title="_MG_9416proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4127/5130749457_d5469530f7_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_9416proof" /></a></div><div>Our friends Jan and Meredith were "White Trash" and the only ones who even attempted to dress up ha! </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5131334798/" title="_MG_9411 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4021/5131334798_d7aa9f0949_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_9411" /></a></div><div>When I first saw Meredith I gasped totally thinking something horrible had happened. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5130740553/" title="_MG_9412 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1211/5130740553_528e816a90_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_9412" /></a></div><div>On Halloween the Embassy took all the diplomatic children around in a van to each of the embassy communities homes to trick or treat. It was so fun to see them all pile in and out of the can together. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5131302076/" title="_MG_9444 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1382/5131302076_d0b139afe3_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_9444" /></a></div><div>Oddly enough Sam was the first one bolting to the door ha!</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5130707339/" title="_MG_9446 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1107/5130707339_83db5e98e8_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_9446" /></a></div><div>They also took them out to the See Bee's camp to trick or treat. Wow. If you are a kid who wants to stock up on full sized candy the troops are the place to go! I am sure they were kid enough to share lots of the candy they recieved in packages from home. Then Chris, Sam and Abby headed over to the embassy for the big party. Liam and I both have been feeling under the weather so we stayed back and rested. Abby went as Kung Foo Panda to that party. I would have loved to see Sam bob for apples. Hope you get lots of treats!</div><div><br /></div>Crawford Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01188478429956721012noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816219428738530302.post-39840203808852338502010-10-22T22:55:00.000-07:002010-10-22T23:19:32.623-07:00Contests Contests and one more contestThis year I was determined to submit a dress to the Dare to Design contest on Shabby Apple's blog. <div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5106233040/" title="Screen shot 2010-10-23 at 8.23.25 AM by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1154/5106233040_fa68f6eded_z.jpg" width="640" height="198" alt="Screen shot 2010-10-23 at 8.23.25 AM" /></a></div><div>I found out this morning it was selected for the top 15!!!! I was so excited! If you would like to vote for me (oh please please please) you can click <a href="http://blog.shabbyapple.com/2010/10/dare-to-design-results-show.html">HERE</a>, I am number 12. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5053420586/" title="shabbyapplesidefar by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4145/5053420586_ce3f744004_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="shabbyapplesidefar" /></a></div><div>I was also selected to compete in "crafting with the stars over at<a href="http://www.sewdangcute.blogspot.com/"> Sew Dang Cute</a>. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5095931899/" title="Contestant-Button by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4131/5095931899_9f2406ee1d.jpg" width="428" height="288" alt="Contestant-Button" /></a></div><div>I was pared up with Jen from<a href="http://tatertotsandjello.blogspot.com/"> Tatertots and Jello</a> which I am thrilled about. Our first challenge was due today:</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5096037961/" title="Round-1 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4104/5096037961_c8d2d50681.jpg" width="432" height="288" alt="Round-1" /></a></div><div>I am kinda nervous about this competition because my "craft" supply is fairly limited ha! But we'll see how it goes. FINALLY oh my goodness I am have been DROOLING over these bikes for about a year now... remember I did a post WAY back when about them? </div><div><a href="http://www.madsencycles.com/?src=lcf10"><img src="http://www.madsencycles.com/images/banners-2011/madsen-cycles-dad-boy-wht.gif" border="0" alt="Madsen Cycles Cargo Bikes" /></a></div><div>Well they are doing a give away and maybe by some MIRACLE I might win one ha! I could totally see myself biking down the horrible streets of Dili in one of these bad boys :) You can click to the pic and it will take you to their site if you want to enter yourself. My friend Jenny who lives in Beijing has her own tuk tuk that fits 2 car seats and this is the only thing that can come close to that! So lots going on at the Crawford abode crafty wise :)</div><div><br /></div>Crawford Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01188478429956721012noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816219428738530302.post-77486699524762970542010-10-17T22:16:00.000-07:002010-10-18T16:54:53.101-07:00Hiss! You're never around when I need you! -- I've been robbedTen bucks to who ever can name that movie. Anyway over the weekend our friends the Hiemstra's were kind enough to come to Back Beach with us (thusly named because it is to the "back" of the Christ statue) in the early hours to take some pictures. What do they get for this kindness? They, and we, get our rear windows smashed on our cars and robbed. Yeah, not fun. Before we get to all the gory details fun part first. I always have some crazy ideas for pictures and sometimes they translate and sometimes they don't. I think it also makes a difference when I am behind the camera. It is really hard for me to articulate what I have pictured in my head. Then imagine being handed a huge camera that I forgot to turn off Manual and be expected to get a shot described very vaguely. Yeah, don't you all want to come help the Crawford's do pictures ha! First I had a chalk board that I placed to far away from us so it just sort of looked odd, plus the kids were NOT going to look at the camera<div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5095220734/" title="family2xmasproof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4124/5095220734_373b4efb6d.jpg" width="314" height="439" alt="family2xmasproof" /></a></div><div>So instead of giving it sometime sI of course rushed us to the next thing. An "I'm dreaming of a white christmas". This one sort of worked although I wonder if you can even read the sign</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5095235406/" title="family1proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4006/5095235406_b62854760d_z.jpg" width="376" height="602" alt="family1proof" /></a></div><div>After 3 shots of this we moved on the the "Crawford Family est..." sign. Now this is when I feel REALLY stupid for switching lenses and running back to the pack before turning the dial back to auto for Meredith. Which is a real bummer because in this one the kids are actually all looking and smiling. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5095231106/" title="_MG_3427 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4088/5095231106_d4af382314_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_3427" /></a></div><div>After rushing through the families I tried the kids. This one turned out pretty cute</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5091510208/" title="kiddos1PROOF by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4110/5091510208_48a97f35d3_z.jpg" width="640" height="484" alt="kiddos1PROOF" /></a></div><div>The rest Liam was strangling himself with the tie or Abby was wailing. </div><div>Sam has gotten a lot better and understands the faster he cooperates the faster we are done.</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5092601478/" title="_MG_3439proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4145/5092601478_d6ab7bdf02_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_3439proof" /></a></div><div>It also helps when I sing the Animal Mechanical song apparently. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5092583530/" title="sammylaughxmasproof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4129/5092583530_f0c07672e0_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="sammylaughxmasproof" /></a></div><div>Liam seriously plopped down on this stool and just hung out while I was getting other pictures. He shoved his candy in his pocket and cheesed it up. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5092000949/" title="_MG_3443proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4088/5092000949_5fb6970314_z.jpg" width="446" height="640" alt="_MG_3443proof" /></a></div><div>But it took that candy to get him to smile. His first picture was this: </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5091989871/" title="lemerspoutyproof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4091/5091989871_c43f23323c_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="lemerspoutyproof" /></a></div><div>The only person that could get Abby to smile was Jan. He totally got her to smile. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5090917945/" title="abbyxmasproof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4111/5090917945_3c4d5444cf_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="abbyxmasproof" /></a></div><div>Which is a miracle because she was sobbing the entire time unless I was holding her. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5092589234/" title="abbyxmas2proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4091/5092589234_e013c3f8d1_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="abbyxmas2proof" /></a></div><div>I always feel ridiculous in front of the camera when I don't have a family to hide behind. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5092593900/" title="_MG_3490proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4131/5092593900_d4c097d841_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_3490proof" /></a></div><div>As soon as we were done the boys bolted to the car and immediately began shucking off clothes. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5095227276/" title="_MG_3465 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4147/5095227276_64bea0cf09_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_3465" /></a></div><div>We moved the cars down a little closer to the beach and headed out for a swim. We only stayed about an hour. As we were cleaning up down on the beach Jan yelled for Chris to run up to the cars. We were obviously being watched from up in the hills and who ever did it came down and first tried to pry the windows out with a crow bard (or something) completely bending the window frame. Then the got impatient and just busted the windows. They went through everything, manuals, the center console, under the seat. Oddly enough they took all the cash, our phones and the necklace I am wearing in the pictures above but left our ipods. Chris and both wish they had just come down to the beach and demanded all our money. Now we have to figure out how to ship in a Jeep window and get it fixed. A HUGE headache and will take a LONG time. It also puts a kink in going anywhere and leaving the car. Plastic taped up to the window hardly says "security". I think the guys are most upset that neither of the car alarms went off. Not surprising to much for our car which is really worn out but Jan's is the Embassy's security car and is super nice. Oh well right? </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Crawford Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01188478429956721012noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816219428738530302.post-77686753347493645122010-10-14T06:21:00.000-07:002010-10-14T12:58:09.419-07:00Since We've Been BackIt has basically rained every afternoon. No one has any idea what is going on. I chalk it up to the rainy season NEVER ending. We went straight through what was supposed to be the dry season with tons of rain and now we have gone head long into the wet season. Anyway Abby LOVES the rain. She loves to sit outside and watch it (we just got our hammock today so I am totally pysched to lay out there with her and watch it). Last week she was begging to go out in it and I thought why not. <div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5062877440/" title="IMG_3132proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4085/5062877440_229d29586a_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="IMG_3132proof" /></a></div><div>Aka our new cook watched from the kitchen window I am sure thinking "oh my gosh this women is nuts". Chris came home from work and we were still out there so he grabbed some pics from the safety of our huge deck, then came and joined the fun. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5062870448/" title="IMG_3106proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4150/5062870448_85d5d3393e_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="IMG_3106proof" /></a></div><div>(I think I look a little nuts in that picture... but even more nuts and unflattering would be this picture:</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5062279091/" title="IMG_3129proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4128/5062279091_5574de1c96_z.jpg" width="640" height="505" alt="IMG_3129proof" /></a></div><div>Abby sure looks cute in this one though:</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5062883212/" title="IMG_3101proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4151/5062883212_1a14dc1980_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="IMG_3101proof" /></a></div><div>The only one who didn't come play was Sammy, he didn't want to ruin his Octopus Pie costume {otherwise known as Optimus Prime). Abby loved playing by the rain gutter outlet. She just stood there with her hand under it forever</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5062886866/" title="IMG_3109proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4154/5062886866_822d55d78e_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="IMG_3109proof" /></a></div><div>After our galavanting in the rain Oscar and Carmen came over for some Halloween crafting. I also taught the kids how to make a toilet paper (or as Liam calls it Bathroom Paypah) mummy.</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5062896826/" title="oscarmummy by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4148/5062896826_784290a800_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="oscarmummy" /></a></div><div>You can tell we are back in Timor and back to the kids picking out their own clothes by Liam's sweet matching job in that picture. We taught Dominique (their momma about toilet papering, no one does that anymore). Then it was bed time and we did out ritual of "Coins" with the boys. It is a new discipline thing we are trying with positive reinforcement and man is it working (thank you Cherylyn!). When we asked Liam to come out for coins he came out like this: </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5062290463/" title="liamgoggles by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4149/5062290463_b8eea4e096_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="liamgoggles" /></a></div><div>and didn't mention the googles at all. (he LOVES his Captain Chaos jammies thank you Granny!) We also had a pretty brutal game of Hopscotch. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5035830657/" title="_MG_2553proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4104/5035830657_b26b11ed95_z.jpg" width="640" height="426" alt="_MG_2553proof" /></a></div><div>Liam wanted to make up his own rules & apparently it was a shirts vs. skins game</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5035822085/" title="_MG_2540proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4105/5035822085_3b237f7efe_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2540proof" /></a></div><div>Sam would make these HUGE jumps to avoid his tiny pebble</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5035826007/" title="_MG_2545proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4089/5035826007_0aa7e1640f_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2545proof" /></a></div><div>and it resulted in the dirtiest feet ever</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5036456224/" title="_MG_2561proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4106/5036456224_bfe921a71f_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2561proof" /></a></div><div>but they loved it, which seems to happen when I introduce them to classic games. The whole playing in the rain thing might have backfired though because Abby is now very sick with a crazy high fever... so even when it is warm you may not want to play in the rain. </div>Crawford Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01188478429956721012noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816219428738530302.post-74983279970638954512010-10-12T21:59:00.000-07:002010-10-12T22:29:01.030-07:00Saying goodbyeI am not going to lie it was really hard leaving Italy, and when I say Italy I mean Grandma and Grandpa. The boys have asked on several occasions to go back. Liam last night broke something that he got there and said "well better go back to Grandma and Pappa's house" and headed for the door ha! For or last day we headed to Ostia to see the old fortress and ruins. First we headed to the fortress to see when tours were. When we saw a huge crowd we were shocked. Until we realized there was a wedding at the gorgeous old church that shared the piazza, which was GOREOUS<div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5075256450/" title="_MG_2352 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4007/5075256450_425bbdb9ec_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2352" /></a></div><div>I loved the kitty in the window</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5074651189/" title="_MG_2348 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4148/5074651189_01f7da9962_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2348" /></a></div><div>Apparently the wedding had just ended and they were waiting for the bride and groom to come out. It was so fun people watching and seeing all the over the top outfits. Or the underdressed feet, as in this guys case: <div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5074642447/" title="_MG_2347 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4130/5074642447_773d3c986c_b.jpg" width="634" height="950" alt="_MG_2347" /></a></div></div><div>The couple came out and the crowd went wild. They threw everything, rice, bubbles flowers it was a free for all. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5074671713/" title="_MG_2363 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4031/5074671713_d9e9b65412_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2363" /></a>After lots of pictures and mingling they headed of to what I assume was their reception. And this was when I snuck a picture of the bride, who looked a little ticked off that I did ha!</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5075262960/" title="_MG_2361 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4041/5075262960_842b1e0655_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2361" /></a></div><div>After everyone was gone I snuck in to see how the chapel was decorated</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5074684167/" title="_MG_2364 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4125/5074684167_ebc8bbb3d6_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2364" /></a></div><div>Could you imagine getting married in such a romantic old setting?</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5075276402/" title="_MG_2365 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4124/5075276402_0751ff3357_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2365" /></a></div><div>After some serious finagling we got all 3 cuties to at least sit down by each other</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5075214460/" title="_MG_2382proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4091/5075214460_f89ccdab3b_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_2382proof" /></a></div><div>and they stayed for one shot with Grandma and Granpa</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5074606603/" title="_MG_2370proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4054/5074606603_2a29e944ff_z.jpg" width="402" height="640" alt="_MG_2370proof" /></a></div><div>and then Abby started eating rocks as always</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5075214882/" title="_MG_2326proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4127/5075214882_844fe70eeb_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2326proof" /></a></div><div>And giving me the pouty face when I took them out</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5075218378/" title="_MG_2387proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4104/5075218378_00377c4577_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_2387proof" /></a></div><div>The boys were way more interested in the fortress. Sammy went and knocked on the door a few times and yelled hello</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5075220050/" title="_MG_2329proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4066/5075220050_67731aeb0c_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2329proof" /></a></div><div>It was a pretty cool door. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5074628697/" title="_MG_2336proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4066/5074628697_c561e7143a_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2336proof" /></a></div><div>I especially liked the modern day peep hole "Yes? Who's knocking at my fortress door at noon?"</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5075232438/" title="_MG_2342proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4127/5075232438_e84545cf8d_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2342proof" /></a></div><div>Once we got on the tour the boys were CONVINCED that a dragon lived in the castle. Chris had them believing that the lizards scurrying around were baby dragons. They also really like the holes in the side for archers or as Liam believed "camons" (canons) </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5075224800/" title="_MG_2391proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4064/5075224800_de9c4e0c16_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2391proof" /></a></div><div>After our tour we walked over to the ruins. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5075253940/" title="_MG_2409 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4066/5075253940_08ac65d3fe_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_2409" /></a></div><div>The boys were absolutely respectful and quiet.... or not so much</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5075229602/" title="_MG_2395 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4032/5075229602_4b758f8c79_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2395" /></a></div><div>Abby zonked in the stroller and the massive cobblestones were not made for sleeping babies so I parked near the stage and rested with her for a bit. The boys had fun exploring and looking through their binoculars quiet a bit. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5074636665/" title="_MG_2403proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4062/5074636665_df6b90eb8f_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_2403proof" /></a></div><div>Liam kept telling me he saw "nuffing"</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5075240610/" title="_MG_2404proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4013/5075240610_5db8cd72c4_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2404proof" /></a></div><div>The floors in these ruins were amazing. They were all tile mosaics</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5075246836/" title="_MG_2408 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4039/5075246836_dc737758c3_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_2408" /></a></div><div>In the little market in front of the stalls they would have a smaller version depicting what they were selling or makers of. It was really awe in spiring to see something that old and beautiful. Sammy liked the sea serpent and went hissing on his way</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5074659341/" title="_MG_2410proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4006/5074659341_0a826fb57e_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2410proof" /></a></div><div>Once we had our fill we headed down to the beach. Beach's in Italy are not like most I have been to. They are all private and you have to pay quiet a bit to gain access to them. We walked down a ways though and found a perfect little place that suited our need of a few minutes for the kids to play. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5029679933/" title="_MG_2483 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4086/5029679933_4bf2ca27e1_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2483" /></a></div><div>The kids had a blast running crazy along the shore</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5030301472/" title="_MG_2492 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4086/5030301472_650fb02ae5_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2492" /></a></div></div><div>just watching them made me tired, running in sand is hard work.</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5030287844/" title="_MG_2481 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4088/5030287844_80b12520ca_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2481" /></a></div><div>This trip Sammy really became attached to his Grandpa. He still tells me I am not reading stories right at bedtime and reminds me of Grandpa's cool voices. He really misses him. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5029691657/" title="_MG_2497 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4128/5029691657_f841f673c9_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2497" /></a></div><div>Abby ate lots of sand</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5030280210/" title="_MG_2479 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4091/5030280210_06ba8357bd_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2479" /></a></div><div>and in lou of underroos which she likes to put on her head she went with pants. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5029711151/" title="_MG_2523 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4147/5029711151_c9b75995fe_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2523" /></a></div><div>It was a really lovely day with Grandma and Grandpa</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5029700303/" title="_MG_2521 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4128/5029700303_aa67e95640_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_2521" /></a></div><div>It is comforting to me that for now the boys don't understand how far from family we are. I can't wait until next summer when we get to see EVERYONE on both sides of the family (that means you better come Cori!) </div><div><br /></div>Crawford Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01188478429956721012noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816219428738530302.post-45020174921673807812010-10-10T07:45:00.000-07:002010-10-10T08:18:32.991-07:00The Vatican, the zoo and glow in the dark toysSo I have to admit I had kind of decided to pack in the blog since we had received ZERO comments on the trip to Cairo. Mainly because hello, if you are going to get no comments on pictures in front of the pyramids, well, you just are never going to receive comments. But then I thought about my mom who has no idea how to leave a comment and how much she loves seeing the kids and I thought alright I will keep it going. So this is for you mom. Jan was kind enough to watch the kids one afternoon so Chris and I could go tour the Vatican. It was amazing, although to tell the truth I was totally shocked by how tiny the Sistine Chapel is. I was thinking it would be more the size of St. Peters, amazing, just smaller then I always thought. It is so nice how alike Chris and I are when it comes to "touring". We enjoyed the amazing art but went through at a speed that by the time we were done we weren't thinking oh my gosh art over kill. <div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5030403622/" title="_MG_1725 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4149/5030403622_655fdfc089_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_1725" /></a></div><div>We decided to go to the top of St. Peters Basilica and could not believe how TINY the stairs were. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5030452100/" title="_MG_1755 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4107/5030452100_f891f64517_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_1755" /></a></div><div>At one point the walls were slanting in and you had to lean as you walked. The hallway was only as wide as Chris's shoulders. Then when you think it can't get any smaller you see a rope hanging in front of you to hoist yourself up the last TINY stairs. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5030676726/" title="IMG_1738 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4151/5030676726_4b4b712fe8_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="IMG_1738" /></a></div><div>The view from the top was amazing...</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5030457708/" title="_MG_1760 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4125/5030457708_f7d910c72a_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_1760" /></a>even if from this vantage point all I could think about was the Da Vinci code ;)</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5029798153/" title="_MG_1741 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4084/5029798153_23ef084ee3_z.jpg" width="640" height="389" alt="_MG_1741" /></a></div><div>We got a rare shot of the two of us:</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5030422248/" title="_MG_1748 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4132/5030422248_136844a098_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_1748" /></a></div><div>and ohhhhd and ahhhd at what I think was the Popes residence.</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5029820953/" title="_MG_1749 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4089/5029820953_a8812231e1_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_1749" /></a></div><div>Don't worry though, if you are hot and sweat from teh massive hike up they reward you with gelato, so Italian. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5030469584/" title="_MG_1761 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4112/5030469584_79fb2e8a10_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_1761" /></a></div><div>They also have a phone and I was trying to convince Chris it would be hilarious to call someone and see if "The Vatican" came up on the caller ID. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5029864243/" title="_MG_1765 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4129/5029864243_6605123e05_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_1765" /></a></div><div>There was also a post box but of course I had no pen on me to address some postcards. How cool would that be to get a postcard with the Vatican Stamp on it. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5030494678/" title="_MG_1766 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4130/5030494678_ceaf856826_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_1766" /></a></div><div>Then we went downstairs and toured St. Peters, seeing Bernini's famous baldacchino</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5029916225/" title="_MG_1769 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4130/5029916225_dab9a5a3c0_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_1769" /></a></div><div>Then outside to gaze at the wonder that is the Vatican Guards uniform. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5030606092/" title="_MG_1778 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4154/5030606092_33b239b4bf_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_1778" /></a></div><div>How cool would it be to wear something designed by Da Vinci. And these guys OWNED it the way they strutted around.</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5030634768/" title="_MG_1780 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4108/5030634768_42f7c4e98b_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_1780" /></a></div><div>The piazza itself is simply amazing. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5030651570/" title="_MG_1790 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4148/5030651570_043c3b2cc7_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_1790" /></a></div><div>Then we headed to Neuvono for a lovely dinner all by ourselves. The view from my table looked something like this:</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5030666836/" title="_MG_1795 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4105/5030666836_131f98a35b_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_1795" /></a></div><div>We totally got lost getting home and wandered for almost an hour but it was such gorgeous wether and we had enjoyed such a wonderful day we didn't mind in the slightest (add to it two stops for Gelato and well how could it be bad right?)</div><div>Since we took sooo much time from Chris's mom and Dad who are such fabulously dedicated missionaries we had one day with just the fam while they got some much needed catch up taken care of. We decided to head to the Zoo in Villa Beourgese. When we got out of the car it immediately started raining so we looked around and spotted the Hard Rock Cafe. Perfect! We took the kiddos in for some yummy American Fare. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5068081614/" title="IMG_2236 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4127/5068081614_4d429530e3_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="IMG_2236" /></a></div><div>We have now decided this is one of THE best places to take kids. The boys were positively enrapt by the music videos. I had to capture a picture of them watching Tom Petty's video where they are remaking Alice in Wonderland:</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5068089176/" title="tompetty by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4154/5068089176_6181a74aaf_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="tompetty" /></a></div><div>Liam had just woken up from a stroller nap and you could tell he was totally confused by the whole situation:</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5067484397/" title="tompetty2 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4146/5067484397_5ca4a6ef68_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="tompetty2" /></a></div><div>I loved it because with out saying a word to us Sammy calls over the waitress (by her name) and sweet talks her into bringing him a big bowl of Olives ha! I guess he has some great confidence. We walked over to the park and intended on walking straight to the zoo but ended up stopping and letting the kids play at every play place along the way. They had so much fun and the weather was fantastic so we were all happy campers. Once in the zoo the boys hoped on the train while I stayed with a sleeping Abby. I love how happy trains still make Sam. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5068131838/" title="_MG_2264proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4151/5068131838_221557ed39_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2264proof" /></a></div><div>We checked out the Giraffes</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5068126540/" title="_MG_2258proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4107/5068126540_e4144abcd0_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2258proof" /></a></div><div>And I always make Liam take a picture by the {Lemers} but this was even better because it had a cut out to pose with!</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5068138364/" title="lemersproof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4146/5068138364_3b0ed6e755_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="lemersproof" /></a></div><div>When we were all done with the zoo we headed back to the restaurant Chris and I ate at for dinner. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5067493951/" title="_MG_2319proof by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4104/5067493951_b802570946_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_2319proof" /></a></div><div>I was sooooo impressed with Jan's mad parallel parking skills. We got a super sweet spot, which is really saying something for Italy. Grandma spoiled the kiddos and got them the coolest light up toys ever. I don't know how to describe them but you whiz them up on the air.</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5067500595/" title="_MG_2315 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4144/5067500595_5f96e9c5f1_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2315" /></a></div><div> Liam and Sam were pro's by the end of the night. They made friends with another little boy and were running around having a blast zooming them into the sky. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5068117332/" title="_MG_2314 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4085/5068117332_048bbd6f37_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2314" /></a></div><div>I mentioned how much I would love to give them as party favors at Liam's space party and Jan bartered a guy into a sweet deal and bought them. I am sooooooo excited to hand them out. It was such a wonderful day, and then we collapsed asleep ha!</div>Crawford Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01188478429956721012noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816219428738530302.post-25739693909014611282010-09-25T14:17:00.000-07:002010-09-27T09:34:31.005-07:00Crawfords In CairoChris and I left the three cuties for the first time to go to Cairo this week. I had a really really really hard time leaving them. When we got to the airport the lines were super long for everything but Chris totally found short cuts aka. going through the EU immigration check point and the First Class Security Check point, and yes we went through both just fine. I kept thinking ohhh maybe we won't make the flight, but we did and crying I boarded the plane. I know you think I am lame but Abby is only 1 and I have not spent a night away from the kids ever, so oh well I am a baby. When we landed I literally went into culture shock. We had saved up our Marriott points so we could stay HERE and had arranged for a airport pick up. Not surprisingly since we arrived at 3:30am, no one met us. As soon as we stepped foot out the airport door Chris was MOBBED by taxi drivers. A tourist Authority guy inside had told us to go to the taxi at the front of the line and that it should be ten bucks. Line? What line? Mass chaos is exactly what it was. I loved that since I am a women I was completely ignored. Until I got ticked and shouted "Just go with that guy he is saying ten bucks" well my guy then tried to have us share a taxi, um no thank you, then put us in a van. If nothing else movies have taught me that van= kidnapped so I sat exhausted and extremely uneasy. Then the guy proceeded to pitch us all his various services until I finally said "I just want to go to our hotel, I am to tired to think about any of this" Then he proceeded to charge us 15 bucks instead of ten (he meant ten per person, silly me). On our way out of the airport security stopped the van, took down the license plate number and had us write our names legibly next to the number. Oh good, so when they find our dead body's they will know the van that took us to our doom, ha! Actually it made me feel better. I felt even better when we made it to our AMAZING hotel. While checking in the brought us glasses of super yummy strawberry juice. Bear in mind it is now 4am and we started traveling at 9:30 pm. Chris reach's for something (we still have no idea what) and knocks the goblet shattering the glass and splattering strawberry juice all over their computer and nice Armani suits. They of course hush our apologizes and bring Chris another glass to which I hiss "Don't spill anything!" We head to our room and ZONK. Chris finally drags me out of bed at 9:30 so we can make breakfast and set up our tour for the day. We first headed out to the Pyramids at Giza. I am not going to lie they are amazing and totally worth heart sick missing kids feeling, lack of sleep etc.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5009058331/" title="_MG_2077 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4151/5009058331_28551fc4c6_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_2077" /></a><br />The hotel had set up our own personal tour guide and she was awesome. Although people kept making us do the lamb "look I am holding a pyramid between my fingers pose". She literally place us in this position. I was snorting at how very unlike us it was<br /><a title="_MG_2082 por debbieimeankelly, en Flickr"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5009071809/" title="_MG_2082 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4148/5009071809_aef4b8b38c.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="_MG_2082" /></a><br />You aren't allowed climb to the top-- anymore. Apparently they used to have races and everything. You can climb up a few for a picture. I could not believe how huge these blocks were. All I kept thinking was why in the world didn't people revolt against a leader who would waste lives and money on something like this, our guide informed me that you don't rebel against someone you think is a earthly embodiment of your God, valid point I suppose. </a><div><a title="_MG_2082 por debbieimeankelly, en Flickr"></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5029452709/" title="_MG_2058 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4128/5029452709_12b519097f_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_2058" /></a></div><div><a title="_MG_2082 por debbieimeankelly, en Flickr">Then we got ride camels- my main desire with this entire vacation. </a></div><div><a title="_MG_2082 por debbieimeankelly, en Flickr"></a><a title="_MG_2082 por debbieimeankelly, en Flickr"></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5030080838/" title="IMG_2101 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4103/5030080838_4d6ee31a2c_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="IMG_2101" /></a></div><div><a title="_MG_2082 por debbieimeankelly, en Flickr"></a><a title="_MG_2082 por debbieimeankelly, en Flickr">It was nerve wracking going from sitting to standing and then we both thought for sure we would lose a flip flop. Of course our camel guide made us do another hilarious pose:</a></div><div><a title="_MG_2082 por debbieimeankelly, en Flickr"></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5029483491/" title="IMG_2111 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4151/5029483491_70251a5c69_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="IMG_2111" /></a></div><div><a title="_MG_2082 por debbieimeankelly, en Flickr">This is more like it</a></div><div><a title="_MG_2082 por debbieimeankelly, en Flickr"></a><a title="_MG_2082 por debbieimeankelly, en Flickr"></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5009167839/" title="IMG_2108 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4153/5009167839_0af5915bd0_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="IMG_2108" /></a></div><div><a title="_MG_2082 por debbieimeankelly, en Flickr"></a><a title="_MG_2082 por debbieimeankelly, en Flickr">The camels are all so docile and just sit there while they run into each other and sit down practically on top of each other. </a></div><div><a title="_MG_2082 por debbieimeankelly, en Flickr"></a><a title="_MG_2082 por debbieimeankelly, en Flickr"></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5009081267/" title="_MG_2086 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4103/5009081267_dc8b1bdd2b.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="_MG_2086" /></a></div><div><a title="_MG_2082 por debbieimeankelly, en Flickr"></a><a title="_MG_2082 por debbieimeankelly, en Flickr">I thought this guy looked like he was smiling</a></div><div><a title="_MG_2082 por debbieimeankelly, en Flickr"></a><a title="_MG_2082 por debbieimeankelly, en Flickr"></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5009089475/" title="_MG_2119 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4092/5009089475_5743944a44_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2119" /></a></div><div><a title="_MG_2082 por debbieimeankelly, en Flickr"></a><a title="_MG_2082 por debbieimeankelly, en Flickr">Once we were done fulfilling one of my bucket list items we headed down to see the Sphinx</a></div><div><a title="_MG_2082 por debbieimeankelly, en Flickr"></a><a title="_MG_2082 por debbieimeankelly, en Flickr">So cool:</a></div><div><a title="_MG_2082 por debbieimeankelly, en Flickr"></a><a title="_MG_2082 por debbieimeankelly, en Flickr"></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5009098801/" title="_MG_2122 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4084/5009098801_4169b6f199.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="_MG_2122" /></a></div><div><a title="_MG_2082 por debbieimeankelly, en Flickr"></a><a title="_MG_2082 por debbieimeankelly, en Flickr">After the pyramids we headed to a place to learn how to make papyrus and got a few pieces for Sam to show to his class. Then on to their famous "essence" shops where we could smell all the different essences and make your own mix. I kept going back and forth between Lotus (which smells exactly like Tommy Girl but way less overwhelming) and Nefrititti which we ended up going with because it was so cool. The next day we headed to the Egyptian Antiquities museum. You are not allowed take pictures so I have none, at first I thought it was to preserve all the artifacts but after going I think it was to keep it a secret how AWFULLY done the museum is. There are artifacts just lying around everywhere and hardly anything is labeled, what is labeled looks like it was typed on a type writer in the late 70's. One of the items was labeled with a hand written scrap of paper! We had planned on spending 4 hours there (as the guide book suggests is the minimal amount ughhh) So we wandered around for a bit, stoping to have a snack at the Hard Rock. For once it was totally in our favor that it takes FOREVER to eat at restaurants abroad. Then we met up with our friend Morgan and her hubby. It was so fun. They took us to this amazing local place that was incredible! She ordered everything in her fluent Arabic and it was amazing. It really made the trip. </a></div><div><a title="_MG_2082 por debbieimeankelly, en Flickr"></a><a title="_MG_2082 por debbieimeankelly, en Flickr"><br /></a></div><div><a title="_MG_2082 por debbieimeankelly, en Flickr"><br /><br /></a></div>Crawford Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01188478429956721012noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816219428738530302.post-83801732842543337762010-09-22T10:33:00.000-07:002010-09-22T11:07:23.946-07:00Explora: Children's Museum in RomeWe wanted to do some fun things just for the kids while in Rome and Megan suggested Explora. It is hilarious because they have pretty strict policies where they only allow people in every 2 hours and limited numbers each time. We arrived a little after the time limit and they stressed to us that we would only have an hour and a half and then had to leave ha! First we headed to the fire truck. <div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5014649227/" title="_MG_1564 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4084/5014649227_9d906024cf.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="_MG_1564" /></a></div><div>Then the boys found the outfits you could dress up in. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5015263850/" title="_MG_1571 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4124/5015263850_e373a92808.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="_MG_1571" /></a></div><div>Then we found the water cannons</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5014663057/" title="_MG_1575 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4111/5014663057_43a8787d1a.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="_MG_1575" /></a></div><div>Then the super cool solar powered cars (which were really tricky)</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5014671267/" title="_MG_1594 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4147/5014671267_c81f1e1c6f.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="_MG_1594" /></a></div><div>The boys had a blast playing in the toy gardens. Sammy planted the food</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5014688257/" title="_MG_1597 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4150/5014688257_ff5fdfcb20.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="_MG_1597" /></a></div><div>Then Liam would water them</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5014698793/" title="_MG_1598 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4128/5014698793_9124b8a4eb.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="_MG_1598" /></a></div><div>This is him making a shhhhhhshhhhh noise that comes with watering plants</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5014707085/" title="_MG_1601 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4092/5014707085_f800f0d6f7.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="_MG_1601" /></a></div><div>Then Sam would harvest what they had grown</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5014718535/" title="_MG_1602 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4109/5014718535_e370214863.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="_MG_1602" /></a></div><div>Then it was over to the kitchen to cook it!</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5015336084/" title="_MG_1619 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4089/5015336084_0d786c7254.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="_MG_1619" /></a></div><div>Liam really liked his turkey</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5014736619/" title="_MG_1621 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4104/5014736619_210069b7df.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="_MG_1621" /></a></div><div>All the while Abby was playing with the adorable pull toy puppy</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5014745647/" title="_MG_1627 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4133/5014745647_919edbe515.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="_MG_1627" /></a></div><div>Then we headed over to the store to buy ingredients we were missing. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5014753871/" title="_MG_1651 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4085/5014753871_45e5eb52a0.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="_MG_1651" /></a></div><div>Sammy checked us out and like any good Italian boy bought a piece of meat the size of him</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5015371382/" title="_MG_1657 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4088/5015371382_15e7ed3a69.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="_MG_1657" /></a></div><div>We all took turns chillin and playing with Abby</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5015381536/" title="_MG_1667 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4125/5015381536_f995ef8830.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="_MG_1667" /></a></div><div>Sammy had a blast on the zipline. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5014842463/" title="IMG_1692 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4092/5014842463_107d4070d6.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="IMG_1692" /></a></div><div>I was impressed with how brave he was doing it.</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5014852679/" title="IMG_1686 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4106/5014852679_39925c9db8.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="IMG_1686" /></a></div><div>Sammy LOVED the fake bank part of the museum he kept going back there and pretending to work on the computer. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5015437124/" title="IMG_1674 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4107/5015437124_9298b06ba2.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="IMG_1674" /></a></div><div>We talked the kiddos into posing in the hilarious cut outs</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5015444080/" title="IMG_1682 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4145/5015444080_0c0e040c51.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="IMG_1682" /></a></div><div>After our hour and a half was up we walked down to Piazza de Popeolo, the home of the twin church's</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5015389878/" title="_MG_1698 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4110/5015389878_40b7175a09.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="_MG_1698" /></a></div><div>Abby was so happy to run around and I just died at how cute the skinny jeans Grandma bought her were.</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5015400146/" title="_MG_1702 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4130/5015400146_5d796e50a5.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="_MG_1702" /></a></div><div>This girl LOVES the wide open spaces in all the Piazzas in Rome. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5014799839/" title="_MG_1709 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4083/5014799839_3fc1fdaf6e.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="_MG_1709" /></a></div><div>It is cute to watch she and Liam become such good friends. They CRACK each other up I love it!</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5015416788/" title="_MG_1713 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4152/5015416788_547140d5b2.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="_MG_1713" /></a></div><div>We then asked a tourist person on a segway how far it was to the Spanish steps, she said a five minute walk so we thought we would do it. It was NOT a five minute walk and the steps were PACKED.</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5015430394/" title="_MG_1717 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4129/5015430394_9ee97a1193.jpg" width="324" height="500" alt="_MG_1717" /></a></div><div>The steps were beautiful though and the Bernini fountain in the piazza was gorgeous</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5015424524/" title="_MG_1715 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4103/5015424524_4ea124589f.jpg" width="333" height="500" alt="_MG_1715" /></a></div><div>On the way back all the kids zonked and poor Chris and Grandma took turns carrying a limp Liam all the way back to the car. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5015477682/" title="IMG_1719 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4087/5015477682_9255cc986b.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="IMG_1719" /></a></div><div>But it was great to see it and well worth the sore muscles :) </div>Crawford Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01188478429956721012noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816219428738530302.post-86604566910519523822010-09-21T13:18:00.000-07:002010-09-21T13:24:30.577-07:00I want to be this cool when I am oldChris and I saw this music video while we were in Egypt and I LOVED it. I have no idea what the song is about because I believe it is in German but the video is ADORABLE! Although I won't shop lift when I am old... I hope. <div><object style="background-image:url(http://i4.ytimg.com/vi/WkP_NaMsrMM/hqdefault.jpg)" width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/WkP_NaMsrMM?fs=1&hl=en_US"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/WkP_NaMsrMM?fs=1&hl=en_US" width="425" height="344" allowscriptaccess="never" allowfullscreen="true" wmode="transparent" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"></embed></object></div><div><br /></div>Crawford Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01188478429956721012noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816219428738530302.post-41949066561310261342010-09-20T14:12:00.000-07:002010-09-20T22:59:57.754-07:00Raining in Rome-- but still gorgeous!We have been keeping busy busy busy here. I thought I would give a super quick update about what we have been up to. I tried to do family pics this last Sunday<div>Sammy:</div><div>(Chris is not a fan of the skinny khakis I got him at Zara but I think they are so cute)<br /><div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5007880427/" title="_MG_2030 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4089/5007880427_e746871d00_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2030" /></a></div></div><div>Liam was a DOLL and there are to many that I love:</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5008507000/" title="_MG_1995 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4149/5008507000_dddb70203e_z.jpg" width="640" height="427" alt="_MG_1995" /></a></div><div>Although this one is hilarious because it is totally his personality</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5009625662/" title="_MG_2000 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4132/5009625662_e53268c854_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2000" /></a></div><div>Abby was so excited to be wandering around and taking it all in. </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5007856717/" title="_MG_1981 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4104/5007856717_f3576a8770_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_1981" /></a></div><div>I really wanted a good one of her smiling so Daddy gave her some tickels</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5009607460/" title="_MG_2017 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4111/5009607460_7d0393e5c6_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2017" /></a></div><div>I love the look of anticipation on her face:</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5009638464/" title="_MG_2016 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4125/5009638464_621a4e72e2_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_2016" /></a></div><div>I have THE worst luck when it comes to our own family pictures. Nothing ever seems to go smoothly. As soon as we got in the car it started lashing rain. We drove all the way into downtown Rome and sat in the car saying we would give it ten minutes to stop. Thank heavens it lightened up enough to run out to the bridge. The boys LOVED playing with umbrellas</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5007864737/" title="_MG_1985 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4126/5007864737_8d829812c5_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_1985" /></a></div><div>We were quiet the spectacle and had a bit of a crowd watching the boys spin around (and I was probably pretty entertaining trying to run around in my dress trying to get pictures of all of them) </div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5009123059/" title="_MG_1990 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4074/5009123059_951c2ec18d_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_1990" /></a></div><div>This was the only family picture that really turned out okay. It was just to busy (totally thought the rain would drive people away) and the kiddos had been cooped up for too long in the car, but it looks cute</div><div><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/5008456232/" title="_MG_1975 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4111/5008456232_2d63638816_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_1975" /></a></div></div>Crawford Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01188478429956721012noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2816219428738530302.post-56662866191558067962010-09-16T08:56:00.000-07:002010-09-17T00:33:12.132-07:00Afternoon in BorgheseMy friend Megan who's husband is from Italy HIGHLY recommend we take the kids to Villa Borghese. It was so fun we will be returning this weekend. It is a HUGE park (it reminded me a ton of Park Retiro in Spain) with lots of trails, fountains, ponds, statues etc. After wandering a bit we rented a Suri to bike around the park. The kids thought it was awesome to pile in on the front<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/4993775323/" title="_MG_1461 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4126/4993775323_9073f665c7_z.jpg" alt="_MG_1461" width="640" height="427" /></a><br />I loved that we could ALL fit in one<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/4994387936/" title="_MG_1468 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4129/4994387936_9c69d1f377_z.jpg" alt="_MG_1468" width="427" height="640" /></a><br />and was so happy that it had a little built in motor ha! We would stop and take in some of the amazing views.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/4994391206/" title="_MG_1502 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4125/4994391206_8cb255e558.jpg" alt="_MG_1502" width="333" height="500" /></a><br />The boys would run around and Abby would pick up rocks,<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/4994395194/" title="_MG_1511ct by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4133/4994395194_92c5e1352c_z.jpg" alt="_MG_1511ct" width="427" height="640" /></a><br />Put them on the suri,<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/4993834041/" title="_MG_1508 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4104/4993834041_5c675f6be7_z.jpg" width="427" height="640" alt="_MG_1508" /></a><br />and then decided which ones to eat ha! It was hilarious getting up speed and zooming down hills. The kids had a great view of the park.<br /><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/32153801@N06/4996361774/" title="_MG_1475 by debbieimeankelly, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4086/4996361774_b30a14b9b3.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="_MG_1475" /></a><br />We had lunch and let the cuties play at this funny little wooden farm. Then headed home. Oddly enough both Abby and Liam fell asleep in the car :)Crawford Familyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01188478429956721012noreply@blogger.com1