Dear Daddy

Dear Daddy,

Happy Father's Day! I wanted to take this day to tell you why I think you are the best Daddy in the world! Although I don't know any different, Mommy says I'm right on.

I know Daddy's are suppose to love unconditionally and from what I can see you do just that. You love me grumpy, mad, happy, sleepy, wild, and even when I'm sad. Mommy says you have the patience of a saint. I know that it is hard work. And I want you know that it means so much to me.

I really enjoy the quality time we spend together. I can always count on you to play in the playroom or outside with me while Mommy cooks dinner. Our recent pool visits together have been a lot of fun. Saturday mornings are my favorite when just you and I take a special trip to the donut shop in your "race car". And I love playing computer games on your work computer with you. But, my most favorite time of the day is our bed time routine. You give the best baths with lots of bubbles and laughs. Your storybook voices are so funny. I like to practice them when no one is looking. And our secret game of "Hop on Pop" in my big boy bed is just what I need to wear off that last bit of energy I have. Our special time together will be a memory I'll never forget.

Thank you for teaching how to fix things too. I know you aren't the best handyman, but in my eyes "Daddy can fix anything"! You always fix my marble game when a piece comes loose, you've replaced many a wheels on my toys that go, and you are the best battery replacer ever! I really enjoy watching you use your tools and I hope one day I have a set of my own..then we can "work" together.

Most importantly, you teach me everyday how to be a good person. I am a work in progress and watching you is the best example I could ask for. You are good at sharing, you work hard, you tell the truth, and you are always nice to people. I hope that I grow up to be just like you one day...and Mommy prays for the same. I love you!

You Best Buddy,

Jack

P.S. I'll be sure to pass this all on to Maggie when she is old enough to understand.

Practice

I decided to practice putting video footage on the blog via my MAC. I certainly haven't perfected it. And as you will see from the video clip Jack is practicing playing gentle with Maggie, which...he certainly hasn't perfected either.

Jack and Maggie June 10 from Paula Cibula on Vimeo.

June Birthdays

Wow! We just spent an entire weekend celebrating June Birthdays. It started with a quick visit from GG. She was on her way to Florida for the weekend and made a stop at the Cibula cottage. That is always a pleasant surprise. We celebrated her birthday with a little gift giving and a nice lunch out before she headed down the road.

Our weekend was then packed with birthday parties galore. Saturday was an exciting party at "Play" for Nate's 3rd! Between trampolines, parachutes, balls, and a foam pit, Jack did just that "play" and hard. He was exhausted by the time we got home and crashed for a three hour nap. A boy can only take so much! Even with all that fun, his favorite part was, as always, the cupcakes!

Sunday was a pool party for one of our newest friends, Jack Janci. Another 3 year old to join the thrilling three gang! Unfortunately, we don't have any pictures from that bash. And even more unfortunate, my Jack was escorted out by his parents before the cupcakes were served. An unanimous decision was made between Mommy and Daddy that Jack's behavior did not warrant anymore birthday fun. We needed a consequence that he would remember and here's hoping it worked. I suppose we will have to wait until the next Birthday party to find out.

After another much needed nap by Jack, we topped the evening off with a Birthday celebration right here at home for me. Yes, I am well into my 30's now! Sunday was the day. And although, the first half of the day was rough, my boys made it up to me with a delicious chocolate cake and a round of Happy Birthday. Oh, and did I mention, I got a new MAC too?

It's my new toy and I am having so much fun with it. Now if I can just figure it out...ha! So forgive me if I'm a little slow on the blogging for the next couple weeks. I've got a lot to learn.

So Happy Birthday to all of our June friends...isn't if fun to be a June baby?

Ready, Sit, Listen...it's time to "PLAY"!

Did I mention Jack's favorite part of a Birthday party are the cupcakes?

Jack was very proud of his mess. I think he was hoping to impress Wesley Kate.

And the clean Birthday Boy! Happy 3rd Nate!

The end to a very busy Birthday weekend. Happy Birthday Mommy!

Welcoming Conrad

I had the pleasure of meeting sweet Conrad on his first day into this world. The newest Ballenger is absolutely precious...with lips to die for! The big boy was 8lbs 3oz and is perfect! Congratulations Allison, Benton, and Big Sister Ansley! We can't wait to see your newest little angel again soon!