The Hogan Family

The Christmas Train!

2010-12-16T08:55:00.000-08:00

Our family had such a fun night at the Irvine Railroad park with our close friends, the Khamis', Shwams, and Walzs. We all went to CPK for dinner and then went over to ride the Christmas train and to see Santa. All of the kiddos had such a fun time. Blake and Cade LOVE trains so to take a train all decorated with lights up to the "North Pole" to see Santa was a hit! We are so blessed to have such amazing friends. It was a very memorable night!

'Tis the Season!

2010-12-09T18:43:00.000-08:00

Yah....we got our Christmas tree and put up the lights on our house! My boys' ages are SO fun right now. Blake is 4 and Cade is 2 1/2. They are so into Christmas and all of the fun things that go with it. Each morning, they wake up to find "Fred" the Elf on the Shelf, open their advent calendar and pull a link off of our Christmas chain. It brings a huge smile to my face to see the joy and excitement that they have.

On the way to get our tree, we stopped at Starbucks for some hot chocolate. Blake and Cade thought this was so special! Then we got our tree and decorated it. It was such a fun and special night. You can see the excitement on their faces!

Blake Turns 4!

2010-11-16T17:02:00.000-08:00

My Blakey bug turned 4 last week! I can't believe how time flies. Blake, you have brought more joy into our lives than we ever knew was possible. You are such a kind, loving, fun, happy and friendly boy. You have such a kind heart and such a sweet disposition. I am beyond blessed to be your mommy! I love you to the moon and the stars!

Blake, you had been waiting until you turned 4 to have your first piece of gum. You also chose to have a "gumball" party. As soon as you woke up on your birthday, you had a piece of gum and loved it!

Halloween!

2010-11-16T16:52:00.001-08:00

Blake's Classroom!

2010-11-16T16:44:00.000-08:00

Yah, I got to help out in Blake's preschool class for their Halloween project and parade. I don't know who was more excited, me or Blake! It was so fun and cute to watch him interact with his friends, especially Abby and Connor....those 3 are stuck like glue! I am so happy he has good friends at such a young age. Blake loves school and has gained a ton of confidence by going. I sure miss being a teacher but love being a mommy!!!!

Pumpkin Patch!

2010-11-16T16:22:00.000-08:00

My mom and I took the boys to the El Toro pumpkin patch (and Brian met us there on his lunch break). The boys had been seeing it from the freeway for weeks and kept begging for us to take them there. It is such a cool place....there are tons of pumpkins, a petting zoo, carnival rides, bounce houses and a little souvenier shop. We had a great day!

The Air Show!

2010-11-16T16:09:00.000-08:00

My dad had a great idea to take the boys to the Miramar Air Show this year. Blake and Cade love airplanes so much and I knew they would enjoy this. We also went with the Walz family. Blake, Cade, Owen and Colton were SO excited about the Blue Angels, walking in the huge airplanes, helicopters, watching planes fly right over their heads (eventhough they were a bit loud) and just the pure amazement of being so close to all of the jets. It was such a fun day! The boys are already talking about when they can see the Blue Angels again:-)

The River!

2010-11-16T15:52:00.000-08:00

Our family had a fun trip out to the river with our good friends the Mitchells and the McCants. It was the first time Blake and Cade went on a boat and they LOVED it. We all had fun playing in the river, taking boat rides, wake boarding, relaxing and having fun with friends! It was a great trip and I am sure there will be more in the future!

My Parents!

2010-11-10T16:42:00.000-08:00

Dearest Mom,

You truly are the most amazing woman I know. You insprie me in countless ways. I admire your strength, love for life, kindness, sincerity, passion and dedication. I am beyond blessed to have you as my mom. Blake and Cade love you so incredibly much. Thank you for being you and for everything that you do for us! I love you!

Dear Dad,

You have always been such a dedicated, supportive and loving dad. You have an incredible sense of calmness, strength, love and devotion about you and I truly admire those qualities. You have always been there for me, no matter what. The boys are so lucky to have you as their Papa and they love spending time with you. Thank you for being who you are. I love you!

LoVe These 2 Boys!

2010-11-10T16:32:00.001-08:00

Our First Camping Trip!

2010-11-10T15:53:00.000-08:00

Brian has been waiting many years to take our family on our first camping trip. Well, we finally did it. We went to Vail Lake in Temecula with the Eckles and Palda families. It sure was hot but the kiddos had the best time playing outside, roasting s'mores, swimming, going down the waterslide, sleeping in tents and much more! Our family bought a huge tent...Brian and I on one blow up mattress, Blake on another and Cade in the pack n play! The boys in my family are all looking forward to our next camping adventure and I may stay home...haha, jk:-)

Caden's 2nd Birthday!

2010-08-31T15:28:00.000-07:00

Happy 2nd birthday to my sweet happy Caden! I love you more than you can ever imagine. You have brought an incredible amount of joy and happiness into our family. You honestly make our family laugh every single day. You have the best sense of humor of any kid I know. My favorite time with you is when I put you to bed, hold you, you lay your head on my shoulder and we sing "twinkle twinkle little star" and say our special prayer! I will always treasure that! Thank you for being you and for being such a happy little guy. I LoVe you Cade!

Thanks for the pictures Erin!

My cutie Cade....I love you!

Napa 2010!

2010-07-29T17:06:00.001-07:00

Over the weekend, Brian and I took our annual trip (well, this is the second year) to Napa. Brian's cousin, Steve, plans the entire trip. This year there were 12 of us Hogans. Steve planned yummy fancy dinners and we had private tours at 3 wineries. I love going on this weekend getaway because the Hogan family is SO much fun and I love each and every one of them. I am looking forward to next years trip already!

Cheers to the Hogan family!
Fun times...taking a break from our dance party:-)

Von Strasser Winery

Lovin our wine!

LoVe

Fun at La Costa!

2010-07-29T17:01:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, some of our cousins were staying at La Costa resort in Carlsbad. They invited our family down for the day to enjoy the amazing pool. We had a blast, especially Blake and Cade. The pool was filled with tons of kid friendly activities such as a water slide, water fountains, a little beach, a kiddie pool, live music and more! Thanks for a fun day Hogans!

Cade and Brian....so fun!
Katie, Blake and me....fountain time

Blake was this excited the WHOLE time!

Waterslide fun!!!

Brian and Cade!

Blake and Katie at the fountains

Sean and Cade....hugs!

Blake's First Movie...Toy Story 3!

2010-07-09T16:04:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, Amy and I decided it would be fun to take the "big" boys, Blake and Owen, to a movie. It was Blake's first time going to the movie theatre. Brian, Blake, Josh, Amy, Owen and I took the boys to Wahoos for lunch and then to see Toy Story 3. I bought each of them a Buzz Lightyear figurine to take to the movie. B and O got popcorn, candy and juice. Blake thought this was so cool! We were hesitant on letting the boys sit next to each other but they did and they did great! They both sat through the whole movie and loved it! It was such a fun day:-)

B & O with Buzz Lightyear!
So excited for the movie to start!

4th of July and Sunday Funday!

2010-07-09T15:45:00.000-07:00

We had a really fun 4th of July and Sunday Funday on our street! The morning started off with a bike parade, mimosas and breakfast on our street. The kids had so much fun decorating their bikes and riding their wiggle cars. Those are a hit and a must have on our street! Blake and Cade ride them every night and fly down the driveways. After the parade, the Fish and Hogan families took the kiddos to the pool. On 4th of July night, we went to Annmarie's annual birthday/4th of July party (sorry, forgot my camera for that). There were lots of familes and it was lots of fun! We came home around 9:00 and went over the to the Fish's across the street to watch the fireworks. Even though it was foggy, the kiddos all loved watching the sky light up with different colors! Happy 4th of July!

Ready for the parade

Cutie Cade

Isabella, Blake and Brady

The wiggle car gang

Sunday Funday on Via Agradar

Love my neighbors!

Lucy!

2010-07-08T17:02:00.000-07:00

The other day, we took Lucy to doggy day care to get a bath and to play with the other doggies. Around 3:00 in the afternoon, I got a frantic phone call from the owner. She was crying and said "Mrs. Hogan, I have Lucy in the car with me and half of her ear in a plastic bag...a bulldog bit half of her ear off for NO reason." I was shocked! Long story short, Lucy was in a 3 hour cosmetic surgery, had a bandage and cone around her head for 2 weeks, had a severe reaction to all of the medication BUT she is now back to normal, minus half of her ear! We love you Lucy, yes, I promise we do:-)

So sad......

Now she has half of an ear

Daddy's Day 2.0.1.0.

2010-07-08T16:47:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day to the best dad in the world! Brian, our boys are beyond blessed to have you as their dad. I have heard that children most admire their same sex parent...so that is you! Blake and Cade are so lucky to have you as their role model. It brings me a sense of happiness that I never knew existed to watch you raise our boys. They love you more than life and so do I!

Dad, happy Father's day to you as well! You have always been such a compassionate, dedicated, loving and supportive father. I look up to you in so many ways! Thank you for always being there for me NO MATTER WHAT! I admire you in countless ways. Thank you for being you and for raising me to be the best person that I can be. I love you so much...Veg!

Last Day of School!

2010-07-08T16:15:00.001-07:00

Blake had his last day of preschool for summer a few weeks ago. The school did a little performance and then each class had cookies in their classroom. As a teacher, I was beyond excited to see my son have a school performance. I was of course one of the first moms there and had to get a seat close to the stage in the MPR. Brian, my mom, Cade and I all watched, cried, laughed and cheered at the same time. Blake was so into the songs, singing loudly, doing all of the motions and clapping for himself after each song. His teacher was Mrs. Zinck and Blake loved her. She has 11 grandchildren and is very nurturing. My baby boy is growing up and I am so proud of him!

Look how excited Blake is:-)

Blake and Mrs. Zinck

Buddies...Connor, Blake and Jack

Yummy cookies

First Camping Trip!

2010-06-11T12:27:00.000-07:00

On Friday night, Brian and Blake went camping together for the first time! Blake was so looking forward to sleeping in a tent, being with his cousins and having special time with his daddy. Jack, Brian's brother, and his family were camping for the weekend at San Clemente state park with a bunch of their friends. They were kind enough to include us. Our family went Friday afternoon and played at the beach, ate dinner and roasted s'mores. Cade and I left around 8:30pm. I thought it was a little too soon for Cade to sleep in a tent in his pack n play. Blake had the best time with all of the kids, wearing his special head flashlight, playing at the beach, finding rocks and camping! We can hardly wait to go again, especially Blake!

A Night At The St. Regis!

2010-06-11T12:13:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, Brian and I got to stay the night at the St. Regis. For Christmas, his parents gave us Starwood points so we could get a way for a night. We finally used them:-) It was such a beautiful weekend, we layed by the pool, watched the Laker game at a bar overlooking the ocean and then went to Salt Creek Grill for dinner! The next morning we took a long walk to breakfast and down to the beach. I am so blessed to have Brian as my husband. Babe, you are such a dedicated, hardworking, loving and wonderful man. The boys and I are so lucky to have you! I love you forever! xoxo

A Night At The Walzs'

2010-06-11T12:03:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, we went to the Walz family's house for a BBQ with the Shwams. All of the kids are best buddies so it was so much fun! The kiddos love playing together. We had a great dinner and roasted s'mores! Thanks for a fun night!

The kiddos eating dinner
Maddy and Blake making music

Dads and kids roasting marshmellows

My boys:-) xoxo

Buzz...The Roly Poly

2010-06-08T15:20:00.000-07:00

The other day, the boys and I went for a treasure hunt around our street. We were looking for snails, roly poly bugs, leaves, rocks, you know, typical boy treasures:-) Well, while the boys were searching, Blake found a roly poly. He got so excited, picked it up and wanted to make him a house. His name became Buzz, we got a container and Blake picked a few leaves, some grass and a few rocks to put in Buzz's new home! Its the little things......

Ready for our treasure hunt
Here is Buzz and his new house

So happy

Picking grass for Buzz's house

Connor joined the treasure hunt

Blake and Cade LOVE taking care of Connor

Our Family Garden

2010-06-08T10:45:00.000-07:00

Well, I am not sure if I should call it our "family garden," maybe The Hogan Boy's Family Garden is better. Its kind of a guy thing in our house! Brian looks forward to planting a vegetable garden every year. Blake was into it a little last year, but this year, Blake, Cade and Brian LOVE it and they take such great care of it. This year, they planted a few different types of tomatoes, sugar peas, snap peas, basil, pumpkins, cucumbers, peppers, watermelon, cantelope and even a chicken dino plant:-) All Blake wanted to grow was a chicken dino plant...this should be interesting and he is so excited about it! We are going to have to get creative!

Every night Blake and Cade wait for Brian to get home so they can look at the garden, see what has grown and water it. They each have their own watering can and gardening tools. It is such a cute and special bonding time for all of my boys and its special for me to sit back and watch the excitement! I am looking forward to some yummy food!

Blake put the flag in himself...here is the start of their garden
Cade and Brian....Cade loves digging in the dirt

Eating a chicken dino as he is planting the chicken dino plant

I love our garden!

When Blake Grows Up....

2010-05-26T14:23:00.000-07:00

As we were driving home from the Spectrum today, Blake saw a school bus on the freeway next to us. He said, "Mommy, when I get bigger I want to drive a school bus. I want you to sit in the back and you can tell me where to go. That would be so fun." I was laughing so hard inside. I love driving in the car with my boys. We listen to music, sing, count colored cars, and they get so excited to see trash trucks, cement trucks, tow trucks, etc.... Some of our best times are in the car!

Over the weekend as we were driving to Palm Desert, Brian told Blake that he and mommy got married out there and we pointed to the Westin Hotel. Blake then told us that he was going to get married at Zoomars Farm....too funny! Wow, that would be a cheap wedding. I wonder who the lucky lady will be......

Desert Weekend!

2010-05-24T16:03:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we went out to Palm Desert with the Walz and Khamis familes. It was so much fun. There were 5 boys under the age of 3...yikes! They had a blast together and are best buddies. I feel like Brian and I get away a lot either alone or with friends so it was so nice to have a weekend away with our family. Blake and Cade loved being in the pool and jacuzzi, playing outside, building forts, riding the golf cart and being with their friends. Thanks Walzs for inviting us....you are all such special friends!

Happy Cade

Brian and Cade

Blake and Brian...relaxing

Blake loved swimming

Fun with daddy! I sure love these 3

Jacuzzi time...Brian and Josh with their boys

Our family watching the golfers

Friends forever

B and O...popsicle time

Cade and Connor...buddies in the pool

Golf cart ride...the boys loved this!

Beach Day!

2010-05-24T15:08:00.001-07:00

Last week, we went to "baby beach" with several friends. It was such a nice sunny day and the boys had a blast. We packed a picnic lunch, built sandcastles, and played in the water. I am sure we will be spending many days there over the summer!

Lovin the beach

Just chillin in the sun...love his feet crossed!

Fun in the sun!

Blake, Cade, Owen and Colton

Beach buddies!

Blake and Brian Go Fishing!

2010-04-12T16:24:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we went down to Balboa Island to see Nana and Grandaddy. While Cade was napping, Brian decided to take Blake fishing for the first time. Brian grew up on Balboa Island and as a kid, he loved fishing for little feeder fish off of the docks. He has been dying to take Blake and was finally able too. We walked down to the fishing store and bought some hand held fishing lines and Nana gave us some cheese. Blake was so excited but had no idea what was really going on. Once they got down to the dock, the fun began. It took a few minutes but all of a sudden they both started screaming "fish fish fish" It was so funny and so cute to see how excited BOTH of them were to catch a fish. Blake's eyes were as big as his face. I kind of stood back and watched b/c I knew how much this meant to Brian since he did this with his dad when he was Blake's age. It was a priceless experience that none of us will forget. Brian is such a wonderful and dedicated dad to our boys. They are sure lucky to have him as their role model. I love all of my boys!

On their way....hand in handGetting the cheese on the hook

Waiting, waiting.....

Yah, they caught one!!!! ( you can see it under their hands)

Blake and Brian....buddies!

San Diego Zoo!

2010-04-12T16:09:00.000-07:00

Since it was Blake's spring break and my mom had the week off from teaching art, we decided to take the boys to the zoo for the first time. We had a fun day and the boys loved seeing all of the animals. We saw elephants, panda bears, polar bears, monkeys, and many more. The only problem was it was a rainy day. We were ok until about the last 10 minutes when it started down pouring. Blake and Cade thought it was hilarious and my mom and I did not! Even in the rain, we had a wonderful day!

Blake, Tutu and the elephants
C & B loved sitting in the helicopter

Tutu and Blake with their umbrellas

Disneyland....Mommy and Blake's Day!

2010-04-12T15:48:00.000-07:00

I thought it would be special to have a day alone with Blake, so, we decided to go to Disneyland. We had a blast together. Blake loved the one on one time, and so did I. Blake got to choose all of the rides we went on, he got a new Mickey flashlight sword, and a huge sucker. I love spending time with my boy. Blake, you are my angel. You are funny, smart, kind, and full of life. Mommy loves you more than life....thank you for being you!

Its a Small World
Blake, Pluto and his new flashlight

So happy to have a big sucker

Blake and Goofy

Blake and mommy...I love you!

The BFF Crew!

2010-04-12T15:34:00.000-07:00

The other night, all of our hubbies were out of town for work, so my besties, Celina and Amy, and their kiddos, Maddy, Brody, Owen, and Colton all came for dinner. It was such a fun night but very chaotic and loud:-) 6 kids under the age of 3 1/2....wow! Oh, and five of which are boys, poor Maddy! Eventhough it is crazy, I love it more than anything that they are all friends and get along so well. My boys and I are so blessed to have the Shwams and Walzs in our lives....we will be BFFs forever!

Best picture ever...cutest kids ever!
Love bugs

Blue eyed buddies

Rockin out on the drums
Yummy dinner
Best buddies building a train track

Brotherly Love!

2010-04-12T15:13:00.000-07:00

My boys
Smoochy smooch

Their favorite day of the week..."trash truck day!"

My Irish leprechauns

Love you both!

I look at these photos and my eyes are filled with tears. I can't even put into words the amount of love that I have for my two angels. They are both such amazing, loving, kind, happy, fun, and special young boys that truly are a blessing. I can kiss them a million times a day but it will be a while before they truly grasp how much I love them. Thank you to each of you Blake and Cade for being who you are and filling my life with more love and joy that I ever thought was possible. I hope you are always best buddies! Mommy and daddy love you to the stars and the moon!!!!

Babysitting Sophie!

2010-04-12T15:01:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend, my mom had a "ladies" weekend away. We were the lucky ones and got to take care of Sophie, her dog. Blake and Cade absolutely LOVE her, and so does Lucy. She is a sweet dog. The only problem is that when she is here, Sophie will ONLY eat if Blake or Cade are feeding her out of their hands. So, when the boys are napping and its Sophie's dinner time, I try to feed her. Nope, she won't eat....she waits until they wake up. We have to take her in the garage to eat so Lucy won't eat her food. Its about a 20 minute process and the boys love it! Thanks Tutu for letting us babysit Sophie....we love her!

Dinner time for Sophie
Eating out of Blake's hand

Too cute...Sophie and Cade cuddling

Blake playing with Sophie

Papa's Birthday!

2010-03-09T16:55:00.000-08:00

Happy birthday dad/papa...we love you!
Love this picture...Cade is so happy to say "cheese"
Blake is so worried about dropping his ice cream cone
Coloring with CC

We celebrated my dad's birthday over the weekend. Blake was SO excited to celebrate Papa. He is so into birthdays now and its really cute. He picked out 4 balloons, made him a card and wrapped his gifts. Cade loved the ballons once he saw them and his favorite part was eating the ice cream:-) I made a yummy dinner, we played Candyland and had Baskin Robbins ice cream, per my dad's request. We had a special night celebrating my amazing dad!!! I love you!

The Hogan "Boys"!

2010-03-09T16:41:00.000-08:00

I am beyond blessed as a wife and a mother to have Brian, Blake and Cade in my life! Each one of you are so special. I truly love each of them more than words can express and could not imagine my life without them. I love all 3 of you!!!

Making pancakes with daddy

My happy boys....just chillin'

Love and Love

Blake helping daddy get ready for Utah

Here I am:-)

Too cute....

Brothers...Best Buddies!

2010-02-02T21:41:00.000-08:00

Wow, these two angels are my life! I have typed one sentence and tears are running down my face just thinking of these two tucked away in their beds. They are so precious and mean the world to Brian and I. We are so incredibly blessed to have created these angels. They bring so much joy, laughter and love into my life each day. I love how they are so different and so special in their own ways. I am so glad that they have one another. I pray that they will be best friends for life and always be there for one another.

Blake, you are such an angel, you really are! You have the most incredible, sweet, and kind personalitly. Everyone loves being around you. You are the best big brother ever and set a great example for Cade. I know he is always going to look up to you. Thank you for being you and for making me a proud proud mommy!

Cade, you are my little angel. You make daddy and I laugh every single day. You love to smile and to be happy. You love your big bro so much but you are independent as well and I admire that. You are a character and are always smiling. I am so proud of who you!

As a parent, you can't even explain the love that you have for your children. I now realize how much my parents love me. Blake and Cade, you are the loves of my life, besides your dad, of course. I love you with all of my heart and always always will...I love you to the moon and to the stars!

Cade Is Walking....YAH!!!!

2010-02-02T21:32:00.000-08:00

Ok, so not sure what is up with the Hogan boys and walking.....they sure like to take their sweet time. Blake walked at 16 months 1 week and Cade was 16 months 3 weeks (at least it was before 17 months). Cade loves being the center of attention and maybe that is why he waited so long to walk. Literally, Cade decided to stand up and walk across the room the other night. Brian and I almost had a heart attack because we were so excited. I am surprised you all didn't hear us screaming from your houses. I just can't believe he got up and did it...that was it, as simple as that. He was SO proud of himself and loved that we were all freaking out, even Blake. It is so cute to watch him. I don't know who is more excited, Cade or his mommy:-)

Look at me.....one proud little boy
Go Cade Go!
Trying to find Blake in his room

First Day Of Preschool!

2010-02-02T21:23:00.000-08:00

My baby boy is growing up. Over the Christmas break, I got a call from Talega Life Preschool that Blake and 3 of his best buddies got in staring January 5....YIKES! After lots of contemplation, Blake, Connor, Abby and Jack all started together. His teacher is Mrs. Zinck and he absolutely LOVES it. Those of you who know Blake, know that he is such a sweet, special, loving and well mannered little boy. Each time I take him to school, he is so excited. I am so proud of you Blake, you are my angel boy:-)

Um, he was a little unsure at first
Cute, cute and cute....Blake, Abby and Connor

They both went straight to the kitchen

Sea World With Tutu!

2010-02-02T16:10:00.000-08:00

We are ready and excited for Sea World
Tutu and Blake on the Elmo ride

I could not believe Blake wanted to go on this ride.

I think my mom was more scared than Blake!

Looking at the dolphins

Cheese.....ready for Shamu!

Cade and mommy at Shamu show

BLake LOVES Tutu SO much and vise versa:-)

Looking at the fish....such a happy boy!

Christmas Morning!

2010-02-02T15:32:00.000-08:00

One of the best moments of motherhood so far has been this year watching my boys on Christmas morning. Cade was happy and loved all of the new fun toys; however, he did not really understand what was going on. On the other hand, his big bro Blake totally understood and was over the moon excited!!!! It was priceless when he came running downstairs in the morning. All he had been asking for was a kitchen, and so of course, that is what he got! Cade loves playing on Blake's big chair so Nana and Grandaddy got him one. Tutu got the wagon that the boys had been wanting. And of course, Santa sure spoiled our boys this year:)

Since I was a little girl, my dad has always made homemade waffles on Christmas morning. We have been continuing that tradition with my dad at my house. The past few years, the Khamis family joins us and Erin makes a delicious breakfast casserole. Jim and Deb join in on the fun as well as my mom, dad and sister. It was another yummy Christmas breakfast and a very special Christmas!

So excited for their kitchen and all of the pretend food

Cade's new chair

Connor, Cade and Blake...playing with new toys and watching a video

We love our wagon Tutu

Brady and Blake relaxing after a crazy morning

Christmas Eve!

2010-02-02T14:55:00.000-08:00

Our annual Christmas Eve tradition is that my family, Brian's parents and the Sawyer/Stover family all go over to Janet and Rob's house. Tyler and Blake don't see each other too often; however, when they do, they really play well togther and have very similar personalities. We had a yummy dinner....tri-tip, twiced baked potatoes, and salad.

Blake and Tyler eating dinner

Another Christmas Eve tradition is the candle tree. Each person gets to pick a candle, make a wish and then we light them all at once. We sing Christmas carrols and wait as each candle flickers away. This year Tyler won! Brian has been doing this for 33 years and claims he has never won....maybe next year babe:-)

Please let my candle be last!

Cade loved watching the candle tree

Once we got home, Blake got carrots, milk and cookies ready for Santa and his reindeer. He was really excited and into it. Its so special and memorable watching my boys get beyond excited for Santa to come!!!! Once we put them to bed, my dad and Brian were hard at work putting together the wagon from Tutu and the kitchen from Santa. I can hardly wait until next year......

Getting everything ready!

I hope Santa and the reindeer like our treats

Working hard.....

Our Gingerbread House!

2010-02-02T14:48:00.000-08:00

Brian had the honor of making a train gingerbread house with Blake this year. Blake was beyond excited to make this. After falling apart a couple of times, the masterpiece was complete! It was a special daddy - son bonding creation and I know how excited Blake and Cade will be to make one next year. This is a good tradition for daddy:-)

So happy and......

so proud!

Music With Papa!

2010-01-06T15:46:00.000-08:00

When my dad comes to visit or babysit, Blake and Cade always ask Papa to get out the guitar and sing with them. Since it was December, this time they all sang Christmas songs. It was so cute. Blake is usually the one playing the guitar with my dad, but this time, Cade was really into it. I love sharing in these special moments with my family!

Everyone getting ready to sing
I love this photo
Happy Cade helping Papa

Go dad, sing a way

Both of my boys LOVE music, just like their mamma:-) Oh, they LOVE to dance too, just like their mamma:-)

Boat Parade!

2010-01-06T15:34:00.000-08:00

The boat parade was a huge hit this year in the Hogan house! My boys absolutely LOVED it. First, we went to Nana and Grandaddy's house on Balboa Island, had dinner and played with the cousins. Then we all made hot chocolate, went to the Hurray's house and met the Mitchell family down by the dock. The best part was watching the excitement on all of the kiddos faces....it truly is priceless. I can hardly wait for next year!

Getting the hot coco ready
Waving to the boats

Brent and Brian with the young ones

Nana, in charge of the hot coco and cookies

Melissa and I

Blake and Blake...buddies and so excited

First Dentist Visit!

2010-01-06T15:20:00.000-08:00

In early December, when Blake was 3 years old, he had his first dentist visit. The office was super cool. It had lots of toys to play with, he got to wear sunglasses and Blake got to pick a video to watch. He picked Thomas, of course:-) Once we got in the room, he was very unsure about this whole dentist thing. Blake didn't cry at all but the look on his face was obviously a scrared one! Dr. Mike was very nice and Blake was so brave. They cleaned and flossed his teeth. Afterwards, he got to pick a sticker and a toy and his mommy gave him a sucker:-) He doesn't have to go back for 6months!

So excited BEFORE he got in the room
Meeting the nurse and petrified

Cool shades

Just waiting...too cute

span>

Santa!

2010-01-06T15:14:00.000-08:00

Blake loved Santa and Cade was unsure about him! Blake told Santa he wanted a kitchen for Christmas. When he got off of his lap, Blake looked at Brian and I and said, "well, where is my kitchen?" It was priceless!!!!

Getting Our Christmas Tree!

2009-12-05T15:13:00.000-08:00

Last night, we took the boys out to dinner and then to the Christmas tree lot. I don't remember the last time I saw Blake so excited and happy. He absolutely loved it. He was so cute and kept saying "Daddy, Mommy...look at this beautiful tree" He wanted to bring home a small one that he picked out but we ended up with an 8 footer:-) Once we got home with it, Blake was daddy's helper. Blake got the water for the tree stand, helped sweep up the leaves that had fallen, and even got Brian a glass of water all on his own. When he brought Brian the water, Blake said, "Dad, are you sweating...I am" Too cute!

Once the tree was up, we all started decorating. Cade loved playing with the ornaments and Blake loved looking at all of the ones we had and helping put them on the tree. We listened to Christmas songs and had hot coco. It was a night to remember!!!

Our family and our tree
Blake wanted both of these trees

Daddy and his boys
Oh, I love you Blake!!!
Daddy and Cade
My little loves
Decorating our tree

Thanksgiving!

2009-12-05T14:42:00.000-08:00

We have so much to be thankful for...our health, happiness, family, friends and much much more. Personally, I am so thankful and blessed to have Brian, Blake and Caden in my life. They make me happier than I could ever imagine. Brian does so much for our family and works hard every single day to give our family the special life that we live. I love you so much Brian and can't imagine my life without you. You are also an amazing and deciated father and our boys are incredibly blessed to have you. Blake and Cade bring so much joy and happiness into my life and I love them with all of my heart!

On Thanksgiving, we went to Nana and Grandaddy's house along with Jack, Susan, their 4 kiddos, mom, dad and Chel. It was a fun and special night with family and a perfect Thanksgiving! Oh, and wait until you see how my mom showed up...priceless!!

My dad, me and Jim (father in law)
Cade and Papa

a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_vQraiCIqrpY/SxrlUm8RXcI/AAAAAAAAAWg/nlG9Pyxi9bI/s1600-h/DSC03712.JPG">Yes, this would be my momma

The kids loved the turkey costume

Jim and our turkey

Brian and Parker (taking a football break)
The kiddos eating dinner
Chel, mom, me and dad.....my family
The lovers:-)
Mom and B

Blake's Birthday Party!

2009-11-16T19:05:00.000-08:00

A few months ago, Blake asked me if he could have his birthday party at Zoomars farm in San Juan Capistrano. I actually thought that was a great idea so we did it! Blake invited several of his closest friends. The kids loved it. They were able to feed the goats and rabbits, go on the train ride and play at the park. It turned out to be a great party

The birthday boy
I love this little guy so much

Tutu, the boys, and the goats

B and O rode the train about 10 times

Swinging with the kids
Tutu, Blake, me and Cade
Uncle Dave and Blake
Piniata time
Swinging with Tutu

A Birthday Celebration!

2009-11-16T18:55:00.000-08:00

Our very very good and dear friends, the Walz family, came over one night and we had a special birthday celebration for Blake! Blake and Owen had so much fun having dinner and eating icecream cones. They are such good buddies. We are incredibly blessed to have them as friends. We love you Walz family!

The birthday boy
Yummy dinner...hotdogs, as usual
I LOVE this picture of the dads and their boys (and their icecream cones)
Yummy in the tummy

Disneyland For Blake's 3rd Birthday!

2009-11-16T18:46:00.000-08:00

On Blake's actual birthday, we took him to Disneyland. Brian took the day off so it was an extra special day. Blake absolutely loved it! His favorite things were taking a picture with Mickey, going on the Dumbo ride, Buzz Lightyear and the train. Cade had a great time too and loved going on all of the rides. It was such a fun and special day. I can't believe my baby boy is 3 years old! Blake, you bring so much love and happiness to our lives every single day. I love you more than life!!!

Our family and Mickey Mouse
Dumbo ride

Mommy and Cade

Blake and Daddy on Buzz Lightyear

The happy birthday boy

Happy Halloween!

2009-11-16T16:22:00.000-08:00

This year our family had a wonderful and very fun Halloween. My favorite part was watching Blake have so much fun and being so into dressing up and trick or treating. Cade loved it too:-) On Halloween, we had a huge potluck on our street with all of our amazing and great neighbors. We have so many kids on our street and they had a blast trick or treating together. We can't wait for next Halloweeen!

Our family all dressed up
The cutest dalmation

The fireman and the dalmation

Daddy and Cade
We love Tutu...she was a pretty witch
So excited about his pumpkin and to trick or treat
Some of the neighbors
Trick or treating at our favorite neighbors house...The Khamis'

Halloween Fun!

2009-11-16T16:06:00.000-08:00

Here are a few pictures of our family, well mostly of the boys, doing some fun things before Halloween.

My little pumpkins...oh how I love them
Pumpkin patch

Picking a pumpkin with Brady and eating cotton candy

Making a Halloween cake...look how happy Cade is

Blake and Owen eating the yummy cake

Colt and Cade...happy boys

Going to paint a pumpkin

Blake's first time carving a pumpkin

Cade's First Haircut!

2009-11-02T16:30:00.001-08:00

Getting ready in the rocket
Kathy always cuts the boys hair!

All done and handsome

My boys

My Baby Caden...14 Months!

2009-11-02T16:14:00.000-08:00

Dear Caden James,

You are 14 months now...wow, I just can't believe it! You are getting to be such a big boy and crawl/cruise around everywhere. You are still not walking yet, but that is ok...soon enough. You love to eat, play trains, and do anything that involves music. You started doing the music class once a week with mommy and Blake. You love love love it! You dance and smile the whole time and I love seeing you so happy. Cade, you also love to do and have whatever your big brother Blake has or is doing. I hope you two are always best friends. You truly bring so much joy, love and laughter to our family! I love you with all of my heart Caden. Thank you for making me smile every day!

You look a lot like mommy as a baby in this picture!

Cutest superman ever

Big boy

Rock star...I love this picture!

Cruisin in your favorite car

Blake, The Fireman

2009-10-26T16:33:00.001-07:00

Brian and Blake had a special outing on Saturday. They went to tour the local firestation. Blake is going to be a fireman for Halloween so he was very excited to wear his costume. Brian said Blake was a bit shy at the beginning, but in time he warmed up and loved it. I think it is so special when Brian has alone time with the boys. They get so excited to do special things with daddy. I have always heard that children look up to the same sex parent the most...no pressure Brian:-) I am so blessed to have my 3 boys in my life and don't know what I would do without them. Thanks for being such a dedicated, loving and wonderful father to our boys Brian!

I think this is fun.....

Wait, no its not!!

Well, its a little fun now....

Yah, Fireman Blake!

Playing With Our Cousins

2009-10-26T16:26:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday, our family went to watch Parker play in his first flag football game. Uncle B and Blake were very excited to be there. Parker is very fast and he did great. While we were watching the game, Blake, Cade and his triplet cousins, Spencer, Tori and Brooke were running around having fun. Blake absolutely LOVES his cousins! It is so cute to watch him interact with them. Tori and Brooke love taking care of Cade. They are such great helpers. We love our family!

The boys and their cousins
Blake, Spencer and Brooke
Cade and Tori

Potty Training Blake

2009-10-15T15:16:00.000-07:00

Since Blake is almost 3, I decided it was time to bite the bullet and potty train him. My philosophy and the one that I thought would be best for Blake was to go "cold turkey." So I decided last Wednesday to have Blake throw all of his diapers in the trash. We went to Target and bought big boy underwear. He picked out Cars and Thomas the Train. He was actually very excited about it and I had been prepping him for weeks that soon he was going to use the big potty. We also made a potty chart and I got a bunch of prizes for the treasure chest. Every time he peed, Blake got to put a sticker on his chart (which he loves doing) and got 2 M & Ms. If he pooped, he got a sticker on his chart and a prize from the treasure chest. He also got a prize when he peed 7 times. These incentives have worked so well for Blake. He has only had a few accidents. I am really really proud of my big boy!

First time wearing "big boy" underwear
Trying to pee for the first time while playing games on my phone

Reading and waiting for the pee pee to come out
Cleaning the potty

So proud of his potty chart

Girls Weekend in Palm Springs

2009-10-15T14:48:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, my besties, Amy, Celina and Erin, and I took some time off from our wonderful children and spent a relaxing weekend in Palm Springs (a special thanks to our hubbies for staying home with the kiddos). We stayed at the Riviera Resort and Spa. It was a modern hotel with a great pool. As soon as we got there, we went out to the pool, chatted and had a few (too many) cocktails. That night, we went to Las Casuelas for dinner, bought some really funny sunglasses and went dancing at The Village Pub. We called it a night early because we were a little tired from our "pool fun."

The next morning Celina got there and we had a yummy breakfast and mimosas, well, Erin had a bloody mary...she LOVES them:-) We layed at the pool all day and accumulated the name, "mom's club" from a few pool friends! That night we went to a great dinner at DINKS. Our server, Dominic, was actually our pool boy as well. DINKS had fun music as well so we danced the night away!

It was such a fun and relaxing trip with great friends. I truly feel blessed to have all 3 of you in my life. You are each so very special to me! Love you all and I am counting down the days until our next "mom's club weekend away!!!!"

Being silly but having so much fun

Special friends

Oh, we thought we were so funny!

We Love Our Street!

2009-10-15T14:41:00.000-07:00

Our family has truly been blessed to live on our street. There are 19 kids under the age of 7. The boys and I are outside every single night playing, riding bikes, doing chalk and on this special night, Ms. Marie read some of the kids a story on the sidewalk. All of our neighbors are friendly, easy going, fun and supportive. Via Agradar is truly a special place to live!

Brady, Blake, Isabella, Kendall, Cade and Ms. Marie

Reading a fun Halloween story

Mommy...I Love You A Lot!

2009-10-11T20:21:00.001-07:00

Blake has not been feeling well today. He has been super cuddly (is that a word?). Tonight, Blake wanted to lay on the floor with mommy's big blankie and cuddle. As we were cuddling and watching football, he looked up at me and said "Mommy, I love you a lot." Talk about melting my heart. Hopefully he still tells me that when he is old and married:-) I love you Blake...you are my special boy!!!!

Slurping Spaghetti!

2009-10-05T16:18:00.000-07:00

My mom watched the boys all day Friday and Sunday so as a little thank you, the boys and I took her to dinner. Tutu picked her favorite spot, which is Romanos. Blake enjoyed some of her spaghetti and LOVED slurping it up!

Market Boys

2009-10-05T16:12:00.000-07:00

The other day I finally put Cade in the car in front of the shopping cart with Blake. They both loved it but I am worried as times passes, it might cause a few (ok, many) fights between the boys. So far so good....I will keep my fingers crossed!

Learning Links

2009-09-30T16:14:00.000-07:00

Today, we went to Learning Links at Las Palmas Elementary School with Suzi, Abby and Riley Godber. I have been wanting to go for a while now but was not sure what it was exactly, if the boys would like it, etc.... Well, thank goodness I went because the boys and I LOVED it, probably because I am (was) a teacher. Learning Links is set up as a preschool type classroom with 2 teachers in it. There are various art projects, a reading loft, a play kitchen, train table, several learning centers and much more. I really enjoyed taking Blake and Cade and will definitely be a regular visitor. Thanks for a fun day Godber girls!

Painting with Abby
Mmmm...what should I do?

Playing in the kitchen

Reading in the "reading loft"

Coloring is fun

BBQ at Our House!

2009-09-30T16:01:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, we had a bbq at our house with the Sumner and Shwam families. There were 5 kids under the age of 3 and actually, they played very very well together. At one point, Sara, Celina and I couldn't believe how quiet they all were and how nicely they were playing. The kiddos are all such good buddies and we are blessed to have such special friends!

Eating dinner
Maddy loved pushing Blake

Cade and Brody

Justin reading the kiddos a book

Grandpa...I Love You!

2009-09-30T15:54:00.001-07:00

The Battle of the Highchairs!

2009-09-22T17:17:00.000-07:00

Mr. Caden James has decided that he will NOT sit in his highchair. For some reason his highchair does not have buckles to go in the slots. I don't know if with Blake we just never put them on or what but there is no way to strap him in. Every single time we put him in, Cade immediately stands up. For a while, he was standing and eating at the same time. I would repeatedly say "no" and sit him down. Finally, I had had enough yesterday. I put his highchair away and now he sits in the portable one that attaches to the chair. He absolutely loves it and Blake loves that Cade sits at the table now, like a big boy!

Standing in the highchair

Sitting with Blake

Loving the new chair

Blink 182 Concert

2009-09-22T17:02:00.000-07:00

Brian and I went to the Blink 182 concert on Friday night for his birthday. We went with a few friends and by chance, his cousin and his girlfriend were also there. It was an amazing concert...one of the best I have ever been too. Those of you who know me well enough, nothing can beat a Bon Jovi concert, but this was a close second:-)

Happy Birthday Brian!

Steve, B's cousin, Amy, me, and Brian

Brian, Bryce, Matt, and Brant

Rockin out!

Blake....A Funny Story

2009-09-21T16:02:00.000-07:00

About an hour ago, I put Blake down for his usual nap. He has been in a big boy bed for a few months now and has never even tried to get out without us coming in to get him. I tried to explain to him that when he woke up today, he could get out, open his door and say "mommy, I am awake." Well, not even 1 minute after I left his room, he opened his door and said, "mommy, I am awake." I had to explain to him that he did not even rest yet (he said he had) and that he had to get back in bed. He was not happy about that but eventually I got him to go to sleep. We will see what happens when he wakes up today. My guess is I will have to go in and get him. To be continued.....

I am continuing and I was correct....he layed in bed awake until I went in to get him. He is such a good boy. I wonder when he will finally realize that he is allowed and can get out of bed on his own. Trust me, I am not complaining!

Pretend City

2009-09-21T15:45:00.000-07:00

The other day, Blake, Cade and I went to the new Pretend City museum in Irvine. We went with Amy and Owen. The boys had an absolute blast. It was so much better than I had imagined. We were there for 2 hours and could have stayed longer. Blake loved the grocery store, dancing on stage, digging in the garden and playing at the water station. I let Cade crawl around everywhere and his favorite part was the water station. I can't wait to take them again!

Checking out groceries

We love tractors

Filling up on gas

Cade loved the water

Owen, Cade and Blake...all very busy

Time for an art project

Digging in the dirt

Dance party for the boys

Where's Cade

Blake's First Day of School

2009-09-14T16:17:00.000-07:00

Last Tuesday, Blake started back at St. Andrew's Kids school. He went there for a few months last year as well. Blake absolutely loves it at this school. I consider it a pre preschool. As a teacher, I really enjoy seeing how comfortable and confident he is there and I also love seeing all of the projects he brings home! He goes every Tuesday and has lots of friends there. His teacher this year is Ms. Carla!

Ready for school

Blake and Ms. Carla

Blake and Connor

It's Official...Cade Is Crawling!

2009-09-14T16:12:00.000-07:00

Yah, I did it!

Yah yah yah....Cade is finally crawling, on all fours. Cade started army crawling at 9 1/2 months but would not crawl on all fours. I know he could have done it because if he needed to get to something, he would crawl on all fours for about 2 crawls and then go to his tummy. When we were in Colorado, he was trying to get to the dog food, which he loved eating, and as I looked over, he was crawling on all fours across the room. So for the past week, each day he crawls more and more. I am going to now say, it is official! I did catch him at my mom's house today army crawling, but for the most part, he is on all fours. Blake cheers for him when he does it and says "Cade is a big boy now" Hopefully he will be walking sometime soon!

Blake's Hurt Hand

2009-09-14T15:39:00.001-07:00

When we were in Colorado, the last night, Blake fell out of bed. He somehow landed, hit, or did something strange to his thumb and wrist. When the doctor saw it, she immediately said he had to have an xray. Luckily, nothing was broken...it just looks really nasty. It is much better now and he has been tough all along!

Getting the xray

Colorado....Part 2

2009-09-10T15:44:00.000-07:00

Well, we made it home safely from Colorado. Again, we had the most amazing and wonderful family vacation and it was so fun to see Nana and Grandaddy. A few exciting things happened our last few days since my last post. Cade began crawling, on all fours, finally! He had been army crawling for 3 months. Sadly, Blake fell out of the bed the last night there. I did put pillows on the floor along the sides of the bed but not the foot. He was in a pull out couch and pretty high off of the ground. Brian and I were in the same room but in a different bed. At 3:15am I heard a very loud and horrifying sound...it was Blake crashing on the hard tile floor. He was crying hysterically and B and I were freaked out. He seemed ok but kept waking up on and off throughout the night. The next morning we had to get up early to drive to the airport. On the way there, Blake was complaining that his head hurt and he actually got sick in the car. We were then afraid he may have a slight concussion. Long story short, he was ok but his thumb down to his wrist was very swollen and completely black and blue. (see pics. below) It was a long and tiring day, 2 flights, and an hour delay, but we made! Thanks to Nana and Grandaddy for a memorable and fabulous vacation! We love you and can't wait to go back next year!

Ready for takeoff

Love my boy

Such a beautiful place

Blake riding Zeb

Nana and Blake riding Bud

Cade loved the wagon rides

Daddy and his boys

Getting ready for our campfire

Blake loved the ATV

Our family

Cute and cute

I love this photo...Brian and Blake

Blake loved helping Nana cook

Matching jammies

Blake loved talking to the horses

Cade on Zeb

This was a challenge but we did it

Trying to get a good family photo

This is who sat next to Cade and I on our first flight home....it was a tight squeeze. He was actually a very nice man who had 11 grandkids and 5 children

The perfect ending to a perfect trip

Colorado....Part 1

2009-09-05T13:49:00.000-07:00

Well, we have been in Colorado visiting Brian's parents for a few days now. We are truly having the time of our lives, especially Blake! He absolutely LOVES it here. So far, he has rode a pony, Zeb, rode on a big horse, Bud, with Nana, taken lots of rides on the ATVs, tractors and lawn mowers, picked vegetables from the garden. rode in the wagon, collected lots of rocks, played in the muddy river, had a campfire...just to name a few. Cade is also having a blast riding in the wagon, playing in the dirt, and just being a 1 year old.

Their property here is so beautiful, and peaceful. We see lots of deer along with all of the horses they have. One of my favorite parts about being here is Debbie's cooking. The food she makes is incredible and most is homemade. So far we have had fresh raspberry pie, homemade granola, brocoli salad, coconut cake, chicken stew, pickles...again, just to name a few and all of these are truly homemade from scratch!!! We had a campfire last night for dinner followed by smores. Jim cooked the ribs and corn right on the campfire and we ate down by the pond followed by smores.

Both boys are napping now so Debbie, Brian and I are going for a horseback ride. I get to ride Pete, who I rode yesterday and last year. He is such a sweet horse!

(I can't upload pictures here so I will post them when I get home)

Mommy....pay attention!

2009-09-01T17:51:00.001-07:00

Ok, so I got so into doing my first post on my blog that I was clearly NOT paying attention to my youngest child! Blake had been saving his smoothie from lunch until after his nap. He woke up and was so excited to drink it. Well, Blake walked into the other room for a second, mommy was working on her blog and this is what Cade was busy and very quietly doing!!!

Cade's 1st Birthday!

2009-09-01T16:57:00.001-07:00

On August 31, my baby boy, Caden James, turned 1!!! I can't believe that it was a year ago that I gave birth to him with NO epidural. I still get the chills thinking about it. Actually, it is kind of cool to say that I gave natural childbirth but would I do it again, NO NO and NO again!!! In all seriousness, Cade has added such joy to our family. He makes us all laugh every single day. People always tell me "he is the happiest baby we have ever seen." I love him so much and truly can't imagine my life without him!

We had a BIG party at our house for his birthday. There were about 30 kids under the age of 5 and about 30 adults. It was SO hot out so most of the people were inside. I just kept thinking how germ infested my house was when everyone left. All in all, it was a lot of fun and the kids had a blast. We feel so blessed to have such speical friends in our life to share Cade's special day with.

I am so looking forward to this up and coming year with Cade...watching him grow, learning to walk and talk and just enjoying life. Happy first birthday Caden James....we LOVE you SO much:-)

The birthday boy

My homemade jungle cupcakes

Daddy and mommy with the birthday boy

CC, Cade, Mommy, and Tutu

Our family

Blake was so excited, and patient, to blow out Cad'es candle

YUMMY!!!

Please don't take it away....

Tired, hot but still happy boys

I DID IT!!!!

2009-09-01T16:40:00.000-07:00

Well, friends and family....it is official! OMG, I actually created a blog. I have been getting a lot of grief from my friends for quite a while now to create a blog. It's not that I did not want to start one, I just have not had the time to sit down and figure it out. Well, on September 1, 2009, thehoganshouse was created! I did have a promise to several people that "my coming out party" for my blog would all start with Cade's first birthday. I am actually super excited to have this blog. It will be a fun hobby for me and a great way to keep you all up to date on our crazy, fun, exciting, and amazing life! So, here it goes....ENJOY!