Things that make me happy, and things that make Hank happy

I thought I would share some things that are making me happy right now at a time when it feels hard to be optimistic about life. If I hear one more word about the economy or job loss or health care woes I'm going to scream. I need to be surrounded by people and things that make me feel like I can face another day with a smile. Obviously my children and Randy make me happy but sometimes you need an escape from everything. Music provides such a release for me. It can instantly change my mood and outlook on life. I have been a fan of Raphael Saadiq since his days with Tony Toni Tone and Lucy Pearl but his latest album might be my favorite. I love my music with some soul but that I can also shake my booty to and this meets both requirements.

Also, Anthony Hamilton never disappoints and his new album is also full of some luscious R&B soul. His voice might be the sexiest thing I've ever heard....too much information , I know.

Next, the new Yoga Studio in Saratoga Springs makes me super happy. It's called Living Yoga and it's right next to Smith's. The owner is a great teacher and she offers some great classes for all levels. I really hope this studio makes it, so if you need a great yoga class check it out.

Now, for what is making me the happiest girl in the world....how does an all expense paid trip to Fiji for a week sound? My amazing insurance selling husband earned us the trip of a lifetime. All the long hours of hard work will pay off the first week of May. I can't wait!

Now, for what makes Hank happy...toon town, no big surprise but toon town with Grandpa Griff at our house, it doesn't get any better. Grandpa came for a visit this weekend and Hank is the happiest kid in the world. Grandpa brought his computer so they could play toon town together. I don't think I've ever seen Hank so excited. I couldn't break up the three amigos and I let him play until eleven last night.

The concentration level was high at this point. Who knew toon town could be so intense!

It was better than Christmas over here last night for this little boy.

Random Pics

I can't believe how nice it is to be outside again. Max was so excited to run he tripped and skinned his nose on the sidewalk. Big suprise, I know. It didn't stop him for too long. Hank is quite the photographer. We were playing hopscotch and he managed to capture a sweet action shot of me!

I didn't do a very good job of capturing Hank's hops.

Cohen came over today to play. This picture will be fun to pull out when the boys are in high school.

Max-A-Mino

Oh Max, why must you fall so much? I swear to you, this kid is crazy. Tonight was not unlike any other night in the Griffin household. Hank and Randy are trying to play a game on the Playstation and Max is causing trouble anywhere he can. At least this time the injury was on Randy's watch. Max fell off a bench and landed on the corner of the table. I would like to think that would never happen when I'm watching him but we all know better. My blog is becoming dedicated to Max's latest injuries. The scary part about it is I think he likes the blood running down his forehead. He cries for a minute and then continues on his rampage. I'm in trouble with this one. At least he's in bed now so I can rest easy, for a few hours anyway.

Happy Valentines Day

I have so much love for all my family and friends, not just today but everyday. Have a wonderful Valentines Day!

Happy 60th Anniversary

Happy Anniversary to the most tender, loving, sweet couple I know! My Grandma Yvonna and Grandpa Sherm just had their 60th wedding anniversary and we celebrated in their honor yesterday. What a positive example of what marriage should be. I am so lucky to have their profound influence in my life. They absolutely adore and respect each other. I told Randy that's what I want us to be like when we grow up and he agreed.

On a less serious note...these pictures of my kids are hilarious yet slightly disturbing. I was trying to get a good picture of Max's snaggle tooth while I put his pajamas on, poor little Mino. Hank, was being his alter ego "Harnk", very full of it. I can't get enough of his ears. They are hours of entertainment.


He was trying to go cross-eyed here, that's not how they normally look...right guys?

Hank's 4th Birthday

Yesterday we had quite the extravaganza for my sweet little Hank's 4th birthday. We started the day off with presents from Randy, Max, and I. Hank got a new scooter, some trucks, and a new game for his smart cycle. Then we heard some excellent singing from all of Hank's friends and family who called to wish him happy birthday. I tried to convince Hank to go to Bajio for lunch but I suppose it was his birthday, so we went to McDonald's instead. Sarah joined us on her lunch break which Hank loved.

Max needed some attention so he fell on the tile earlier that morning and his teeth went through his top lip and chipped his two front teeth! I will have to blog about that later because I can't even deal with it right now. Poor little guy needs a mouth guard and veneers quick! Anyway, back to the birthday, we went home and got ready for the party at the bowling alley.

Hank was so excited to watch his ball hit the pins! Nice action shot Sarah. All the cousins were so supportive of one another, it was really cute to watch. Hank is quite the bowler...103, not bad for a 4 year old.

Max hates bowling, or should I say, I hate taking Max to the bowling alley. Probably the worst possible place to take a 16 month old. He was dying to run down the lanes or pick up a bowling ball and have it fall on his foot. You can tell he is really pissed in these pictures. He hates being contained.

Hank only wanted to invite his cousins and they were all there, including baby Russell. On a side note, I love that Sarah is starting to show now.

This picture is beyond priceless. It's hard to tell but if you look close Hank is crying his eyes out for some unknown reason. I think he was mad because he wanted to take his bowling ball home.

Next, we went back to the house for Pizza, pinata, presents and cake and ice cream. Hank wanted a pirate theme. The treasure chest pinata was a hit!

Dyson really beat the crap out of the pinata. Check out Hank jumping for joy in the background. Nice form Dyson!

Thank you for coming everyone. Hank loves you all so much. He is so lucky to be part of such a wonderful, supportive family.

Nama Jackie and Grandpa Curt

Kunz and Nama Jeri

Kate, Sarah, and Grandma Joanne

Hank and Randy

After all that...he still wanted to play Toon Town. Grandpa Griff, Rusty, and Hank all played for a few hours before bed. What a perfect ending to a fun filled day. I am so proud of Hank. He is such a precious little boy. I am so blessed to be his mom. Happy Birthday buddy!

The celebrating continued today at preschool. Hank brought treats for his class and they all sang to him and gave him birthday wishes.

He had to bring "Lionheart" his dog, to show the class.

Man, I need a nap!

Fun with the Boys

After last weeks mysterious rash, which Max has made a full recovery from, and our families various illnesses we got out today to burn off some built up energy. Kangaroo Zoo is the perfect place to do it. It's really hard to get hurt on blow up slides, however I wouldn't put it past my kids. Thanks for the invite Annalisa! It was quite hilarious watching us struggle up the ladders with Max and Cohen. Talk about feeling like a total spaz!

The best part of our adventure was coming home and having two very happy and very exhausted boys ready for naps! I think we need a season pass.