The Larkin Family

The Fall Update

2008-09-10T11:08:00.000-07:00

I know I haven't been as good at posting as I had hoped, but I'm making up for it today - See below for lots of fun pictures from the summer. We had a great time, and really enjoyed our time together as a family. Our big family vacation will be in a few weeks when we head to Destin for some "fun in the sun" with Jim's extended family for the Cranston Family Reunion! We are really excited for it - especially since the kids are now old enough to carry some of their own stuff to the beach (and John, we hope, won't ingest as much sand this trip!)
Both kids swam like fish this summer - Margaret can do flips underwater, is learning freestyle, and is just really at home in the water. We have been joking that if we start now, maybe we can have a shot at the 2020 Olympics! Crazier things have happened!
John still uses his floaties, but he loves to paddle around, loves to be underwater, and jumping off the diving board is a favorite past time. We really enjoyed watching them this summer!
Other than that, we stayed close to home most of the summer. Grandma and Granddaddy came and spent several days with us over the 4th of July, and the kids had a blast with them. I think they were sorry to see Mom and Dad come home!!
Enjoy the pictures below, and please know that I'm TRYING to be better (I know, I know...actions speak louder than words) about posting, so maybe this is the year I'll actually do it....who knows? (like I said above...crazier things have happened)...

A Larkin Family Portrait

2008-09-10T11:05:00.000-07:00

We had to take a family picture for Margaret's class this morning, so I thought I would share it with all of you. It's been ages since we've taken a family photo, and when I was scrambling this morning to meet the deadline (because, as in all things, I had procrastinated for a week!) the most recent one I could find with all of us was from LAST September. OK, new goal for the year - be better about family photos!! Anyway, here we are. I really am so lucky to have such an amazing husband and beautiful children!

Back to School, 2008

2008-09-10T11:04:00.001-07:00

Wow! I look at this picture and get overwhelmed...How is possible that I sent my oldest off to pre-k today?! Real, honest to goodness school (okay, it's not really school, but it feels that way to me). We have a schedule we have to follow (read: she has to be there before 8:30 every morning), we have lessons they work on each week, and we have things to work on with her. She loves school, loves her teachers, loves to learn. I only hope this trend continues throughout her life - it will be SO much easier if it does!! And then there's my baby - my sweet little boy who seems to have grown up overnight! He's in a UNIFORM (!) which I still am not prepared for each morning as we get them ready. John is getting more and more of a personality, more and more independent (I do it myself, Mommy!), and more and more loving. Jim and I really are the luckiest parents to get the privilege of raising these two remarkable children! Margaret is everyone's favorite helper - she will do ANYTHING to be the mommy...John is the peace-keeper; the one who has never met a stranger. We love you both - all the stars and moon & the whole entire world, little bunnies!

Another Favorite

2008-09-10T11:04:00.000-07:00

It's amazing how fast they grow up...This was a few weeks ago, and they were both in good moods at the SAME TIME (amazing, you see...). I also thought that John looked like a little man with his plaid shirt and sunglasses on his head...So, I seized the moment and incredibly we actually got a blog-worthy photo! These two really do light up our lives. This picture reminds me to focus on the important things in life, and not so much on the little things. We love you, Margaret & John-John!!

Before the Haircut

2008-09-10T11:02:00.000-07:00

Here are my children waiting to get their hair cut. Notice my son's "wings" as Jim refers to them. I, of course, thought he was/is adorable! We did cut his hair, and luckily he's STILL adorable. Meg had hers cut too - if anyone else could experience the drama that is brushing her hair everyday you would know why it's such a miracle I allowed her to have any hair left at all!

Princess Margaret & Queen MeeMaw

2008-09-10T11:00:00.000-07:00

All smiles. Thanks for a great weekend MeeMaw!!

Our Children...

2008-09-10T10:59:00.000-07:00

Beautiful Margaret

I think the shirt and the look pretty much say it all.

This is the first Lucky Dog for John, so I had to capture it for posterity...

There's a Caption Here Somewhere!

2008-09-10T10:57:00.000-07:00

Meg and John trying to pose for a photo...of course, it's raining, John's pulling Margaret's hair, Margaret's trying to run away from us...so this is the best we could get!

Another attempt at a kid photo. John looking up at the raindrops, Meg "posing" (who told her that putting her hands on her face was a pose?!)

Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon...I love this photo - it's just so THEM!!

Back to the Big D

2008-09-10T10:54:00.000-07:00

Heading back home to Dallas from a fun-packed visit with MeeMaw and PopPop! Notice the Philly Phanatic Meg and John are both clutching - this was a gift from PopPop in honor of his favorite sports team, and his grandchildren are showing it the necessary reverence - Thanks, PopPop!! And look....my children are actually smiling/happy on an airplane...leads to a very happy Mommy - Great trip, all the way around!

My New Favorite Picture

2008-07-21T08:07:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Granddaddy for taking this photo of my children. It really captures their personalities, and their love of life (I think it also shows they are both total hams for the camera!) This picture warms my heart, reminds me to enjoy the small things in life, and not to get so caught up in the minutae - I'm working on it, but it's harder than it sounds! Thanks, Margaret and John-John, for being the light in our life!

School's Out "Sundae" at Church

2008-06-09T10:37:00.000-07:00

John-John and Margaret hitting the water slide. This was the highlight of the afternoon ('til they found the ice cream sundaes - see photo below)...

Are they cute or WHAT??!? No one can tell them not to have fun!!

Margaret and John enjoying the giant ice cream sundae out of a gutter - don't worry, they were brand new...Mom and Dad weren't too excited about that idea but who are we to argue with these two faces?? (notice the amount of ice cream my children both had in front of them....there was NONE left when they walked away from the table)!

Spiderman on the Attack!

2008-06-09T10:32:00.000-07:00

John-John and Austin having a battle of the "Spidermen" :) Sweet boys...

The Three Amigos

2008-06-09T10:20:00.000-07:00

Austin, Margaret & John-John before the swimming chaos ensued...

Smiling for the camera

Austin and John-John in a waterhose fight -- they had such a blast!

A Sign of Things to Come?

2008-06-09T10:16:00.000-07:00

John John had great fun with the fireman get-up at Austin's birthday party!

Trying to Stay True to my Word

2008-06-05T08:42:00.000-07:00

So far, so good. It's only a few weeks into summer, and already I've posted twice! Yay for me. We have already spent pretty much every weekend at the pool, enjoying time with friends and quiet time with just our family (well, maybe not quiet exactly, but good quality time anyway). The kids are loving the time in the water, and Margaret is excited to take swimming lessons this summer - we'll have to find time to wedge that in along with all the other activities.
Our good friends just had a beautiful baby boy, so I am again reminded of the miracle of life! He is precious and perfect, and we were so lucky to get to meet him just a few hours into his life. Welcome again to the world, Little Man, we can't wait to show it to you! We have good friends who are waiting day to day to have their little miracle. We are excited to welcome him into the world as well - the two little boys will be able to be good friends, getting into all the trouble that little boys do, together. Luckily for all 6 of us parents, we all have older ones who will show them the way, and protect them along their journey. What a true blessing it is as a parent to watch that happen.
Work is still going well for me. It's busy, but that's a good thing when one is in sales - if you are busy it means people are actually interested in what you have to sell! Jim's work is busy too. We are looking forward to a brief respite while we are in Vegas (but I'm sure my computer will get thrown in the carry-on. I haven't taken a trip without one in over 5 years!!)
I guess there's nothing else too exciting to report - we are just continuing to spend lots of time outside...trying to teach John-John to ride his trike - right now that consists of either mom or dad pushing him down the street. Not so much fun for the parent involved. Margaret is an expert on her bike - I'm actually thinking that she might be about ready to try it without the training wheels. This is a rather big step for her Mommy as well - the first time she has had the proverbial "training wheels" removed. She really IS a big girl. They grow up so fast!

Ice Cream with Our BFFs

2008-06-05T08:41:00.000-07:00

Aunt Steph and Jase called and invited us to ice cream tonight, and what better timing...it made all the drama of the earlier evening (see pictures below for details) fade into the distance - Amazing what some strawberry ice cream and gummy bears can do for a kid!

Take 2 - the sun is in their eyes, hence the squinting (couldn't POSSIBLY be that they don't want to listen and just smile sweetly while I'm holding the camera)...

The first documented case of a true "face-plant"

2008-06-05T08:33:00.000-07:00

Still smiling...although she still looks a bit stunned

Back on her "A" game (with a few scrapes to show for it)

And being silly again..."C'mon mom...take ONE more picture...PLEEEZE!" (how could I resist??)

Piggy back rides

2008-06-05T08:31:00.000-07:00

Two peas in a pod. I just wish I could bottle the moments like this, where both kids are being silly, laughing and playing NICELY with each other. I can hear the giggles and silliness when I look at this picture. And I love every minute of it!

He's STILL cute!

2008-06-05T08:29:00.000-07:00

How is it that even crying, this little boy can melt my heart?? I don't have any idea what he was crying for, but I can assure you that mere minutes later he was back to his smiling self...I'm just lucky that way.

My Little Covergirl

2008-06-05T08:27:00.000-07:00

I can't help it - I'm over the moon for this girl! And please notice the shirt, "Recycle my Brother" - who says she isn't going green!?

May, 2008

2008-05-23T11:06:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe we are already in May - at the end of May at that! I mean, how is it already Memorial Day?? I'm not quite sure I ever felt like I had the chance to fully enjoy spring, and now summer is being sprung!! The years really DO move faster the older you get, I suppose.
We have lots planned this summer - LOTS of time at the pool, hopefully finally teaching both our kids to swim without floaties...We are also looking for a dance/gymnastics class for Margaret, possibly a drama class (her favorite "subject" in school), and hopefully a cooking class as well. John John will be taking swimming lessons, and maybe a gymnastics class. He is pretty active, so anything we can do to wear him out!! We also have a "mom/dad" trip to Las Vegas, during which Grandma and Granddaddy are coming to hang out with the kiddos. They will have them for 3 days - I'm not sure they know what they're getting themselves into! We are planning a trip to Florida in September, and hoping to get a couple trips home (one to DC and one to New Orleans) packed in there somewhere too...not sure where all the time's going to come from, but you have to dream big!!
I have attached lots of pictures from the last several months - hopefully catching you up on the Larkin-land news.
Other than that, we are enjoying time together outside - Margaret rides her bike as often as she can, and both kids have shown an amazing talent and interest in dancing - we have dance parties often, where they show us their moves. I'm ashamed to admit that they can most definitely out-dance their parents...and they're still preschoolers! Ah well, part of that must be the lack of inhibition when you're 2 1/2 and 4.
We hope to see lots of friends this summer, and have lots of pool dates, time at the park, Friday nights at the ballpark -- whatever...summer is a time for relaxing and reconnecting with friends and family, so if you're in the area - please drop by...we would love to see you! Enjoy the photos below...

Class Photos - May, 2008

2008-05-23T11:05:00.000-07:00

John John's class - what a group of personalities!!!

I had to include this photo as well because this look is the one that is most of the time on John's face - the "I'm loving life and always finding something wonderful to be happy about!!" look

This is Margaret's class - she is very much enjoying her last year before "real" school!

I included this one because it's hard not to see all of us from our school days in this picture - everyone trying to be good, but really ready to be done with the photography session...

Sunday after church on the deck

2008-05-23T11:00:00.000-07:00

Sweet John John - this kid always has a smile on his face!

Our children enjoying ice cream cones on the deck after church

One of the rare photos of our children being sweet and (almost) posing for a picture

The 3 loves of my life...What a lucky girl I am!!

New Orleans trip with Daddy, Meemaw and PopPop

2008-05-23T10:57:00.000-07:00

Margaret and PopPop hanging out watching the dancers at the French Quarter festival

Joining in the festivities with MeeMaw

On the Natchez with PopPop...This is a big hit every time!!

Sitting with the Frog Prince...I wonder if she thinks he'll turn into a real prince??

Prom on her 4th birthday

2008-05-23T10:53:00.000-07:00

Does this look like a prom picture or WHAT???

Margaret's 4th Birthday

2008-05-23T10:51:00.000-07:00

Is any birthday party complete without a "hello kitty/shamrock" cake!? This was her request, specially for the cake...I think it turned out really well :)

The Hello Kitty pinata (sensing a theme here?) We had such a good time with the pinata, the cake and the good group of friends we had join in our celebration. How very, very lucky we all are!!

Opening her gifts...she was thrilled to get a good supply of "Hello Kitty" make-up...Her parents were slightly less thrilled...

Margaret hanging with the boys...she will be well protected as she grows up -- this makes her parents very, VERY happy!

Easter 2008

2008-04-18T07:17:00.000-07:00

Margaret enjoying the bounce house...

John bouncing away...although he and his sister both continuously checked to make sure we were watching...

A girl on a mission...

Mommy and her sweet children. Happy Easter!

Innagural Family Ski Trip - 2008

2008-04-17T08:54:00.000-07:00

John and Daddy going up the magic carpet. John LOVED this thing!!

Margaret's choice of how to get down the bunny slope - she wasn't as big a fan of skiing her way down!

John skiing from Granddaddy to Mommy....

Hooray!!! You DID it :)

2008-04-17T08:51:00.000-07:00

On the bus from the airport to Steamboat...

Here we are!!! We've arrived in Steamboat at last!

Margaret at the top of the snow tunnel - her favorite part of the trip!

John learning the feeling of skis on snow....he had a ball!

2008-04-17T08:49:00.000-07:00

John enjoying the skiing with Grandma and Graddaddy

My little "Spyder" up the magic carpet...

At the top of the hill....

With a little help from his friends...(thanks, Daddy!)

2008-04-17T08:47:00.000-07:00

This picture scares me. Everytime I look at it, I see an attitude that will only get "better" with age...I think this must be her "I'm a supermodel" pose!

Snowball fight at night with Daddy!

The Birthday Girl - an ice cream sundae to celebrate the big number 4

Chilling out in the sled - this was great fun for both of them! Hey, who wouldn't love being pulled around on a sled by your grandparents!

2008-04-17T08:43:00.000-07:00

Margaret finally agreeing to put on her skiis and ski to Grandma. Now, if you ask her about her ski vacation she will tell you "I skiied to Grandma!!" YAY!

Nothing like being knee deep in snow. And I love the look on John's face - a mix of confusion and pure annoyance because he can't run as fast in the deeper snow.

Granddaddy skiing with John. The two of them had such a great time! It was a joy to get to see them enjoying such a fun sport together!

2008-04-17T08:03:00.000-07:00

After a day of skiing...Enjoying a few moments at the Slopeside Grill

The innagural family skiing photo. Notice all 4 of us on skiis -- if you only knew what a challenge that was for Margaret!!

A photo op on our balcony

My "cheesy" children - but they're still cute :)

A Little bit Cowboy...

2008-04-17T07:53:00.000-07:00

My little Montgomery Gentry...Let's hope he's got the voice to go with the look!

March Snowstorm in Dallas!

2008-04-17T07:48:00.001-07:00

Our street the afternoon of the snow-dump...what a beautiful and peaceful (and VERY rare) sight.

John's not at all excited to go frolic in the cold - notice that he wouldn't put on his mittens...this is a common theme with him!

Margaret holding on to her brother before they made snow angels in our front yard

Daddy with his snowkids - enjoying the snowy goodness!

Hangin' with MeeMaw

2008-04-17T07:44:00.000-07:00

Sunday morning sunshine

My monkeys

2008-04-17T07:42:00.001-07:00

John John becoming one with the "animals." - He fits right in

Margaret trying, but she's not quite as comfy being a...what is that animal anyway???

John and PopPop enjoying a spin on the zebra ("zeba" if you were to ask my son)

Margaret and MeeMaw on the leopard - waving to the adoring crowds

Fun at the Zoo with Meemaw and PopPop (part two)

2008-04-17T07:38:00.000-07:00

Sweet children sitting on a butterfly. Of course, they are both such camera hogs, it's hard to get them both looking the same direction at the same time...

Another attempt....

Moving on to the elephant. Notice Margaret "helping" her brother

Now the turtle

Mama's Heart

2008-04-17T07:34:00.000-07:00

This is Margaret's favorite new outfit...It has Fleur de lis on it, and she thinks it looks like "mommy" clothes...I'm not sure what that means - I swear I DO get out of sweats occasionally...

No words necessary. My heart. My love. My Sweet, sweet boy...

My "mini-me"

Valentine's Day 2008

2008-04-17T07:30:00.000-07:00

Look at us! We aren't going to pay attention to the camera as requested...

Well, John is a better listener, but he's boxing Margaret out of the shot.

Paybacks are a sister's duty...

Margaret, Uncle Tony and sweet Tori Jean ("Tori Genie" as Margaret likes to refer to her

What's this haircut thing again?

2008-04-17T07:25:00.000-07:00

I think haircuts are more painful for Mommy than for John. He was a trooper, but I was misty-eyed to see the curls fall to the floor. He's growing up....

Really....She's not a ham!

2008-02-26T11:53:00.000-08:00

My sweet angel practicing her "apres-ski" pose...I can't wait to actually see her on the slopes - will be about the cutest thing I've ever seen!

My Little Skiier...

2008-02-26T11:21:00.000-08:00

My heart is melting....what can I say - I adore this little boy! He truly is a "mama's boy" - one day he'll be horrified that I said that out loud, but it's the truth!

How is this possible?!

2008-02-12T12:27:00.000-08:00

Seriously, how is it that we are already 1/2 way through February!??! I mean, I know that I'm slow in my posting, but that is rediculous - almost as though the more I resolve to post, the less often I actually DO it...to those three or four of you out there that actually read this for updates, I apologize. Feel free to flog me mercilessly for the lack of updating that has gone on here.
January has come and gone - amazing. The very first month of 2008 was a good one. We spent lots of time with friends, have had visits from family, and the kids are growing by leaps and bounds daily!!
John has become such a lovebug. There are days that I feel guilty for loving him so much - I know that is never a bad thing, but that little boy melts my heart every second of every day (except the seconds when he thinks writing on the ceiling of my car is a good idea...any ideas on how to get THAT out are welcome!!)
Margaret is ALL drama, ALL the time - I don't know where she gets it...really...OK, fine - she comes by it honestly, as my parents like to tell me often. It is adorable how loving and sweet she is 90% of the time - it's the 10% that gets us. We are working through the bossy behavior - I feel sure that will pass with time.
Outside of that, same ol' same ol'. We are so very lucky to have such wonderful friends and family to share our lives with, and thank you for being in it!!
I guess for now that's all. I promise to put new pictures on here, and SOON. I need to download everything from the camera to the computer so that everyone can share in the "cuteness" that is my children.
'til next time, my friends. XOXO

The New Year...

2008-01-04T07:08:00.000-08:00

So....Here we are - 4 entire days into 2008, and I've already failed on my very first resolution. Keeping my blog updated. At least I'm here now, which is better than never. Here's my first question for '08 - why is it that all the words that made so much sense in my head suddenly and inexplicably become a jumble of nothingness once I set about to put them on "paper?" Ugh. Oh well, onward and upward.
2007 was a great year in the Larkin home. It saw lots of changes, lots of growth, and lots of excitement. On the work front, I finally took the big leap of faith and left the cozy security that was Google. Google was great to me, and to my family, but it was time to move on. Time to find something that allowed me to control my own destiny. Now, I'm working for a great company, MUCH smaller, and finding my way. The way won't be easy, but it will be mine, so that's a good place to start. Jim is still doing amazing things with Ameriprise, so nothing big changed on the work front with him.
We took a fabulous family vacation to Cape Cod in late summer - and I think I'm in love. The small town charm, the so-blue-it-looked-fake water, and the beauty of the simple things - I could do it yearly. Perhaps (when we win the lottery :)) we will buy a summer house there so we can enjoy it anytime. I only wish somehow we could transport it closer to Dallas because I will admit that the 4 1/2 hour plane ride is one I could have happily avoided. You know what they say...no pain, no gain.
Margaret turned 3 (I am just now realizing how long it really has been since I posted. jeesh.), John turned 2, and I am one year closer to 35...Jim and I took one of the very first vacations we have taken, just the two of us, since our honeymoon. We went to Vegas with good friends and it was heaven. We missed the kids, and we were ready to get home after 3 days, but it was such a great experience that we hope to do it at least once a year every year from now on.
OK, enough waxing nostalgic on the past year, and onto THIS year. One of my biggest resolutions is to not live in the past, so word after word about last year would be counter-productive. Yet another resolution is to continue to keep this blog updated. I figure I can carve out a few minutes a day...I'm not THAT busy. And, of course the obligatory lose the nagging last 15 pounds, eat better, feed my children better, be a better wife, mommy and friend...so, here goes. Let's hope I can keep it up. I hope each and every one of you have a most magical 2008. We are blessed to get to share our lives with each and every one of you. 'til next time, my friends. XOXO

February 2007

2007-02-06T10:01:00.000-08:00

I know, I know...I've fallen down on the job - my updates have been very sporadic, and for that I apologize. We've had an insanely busy January, and while that's no excuse it is the reason for the lack of updating. I spent 7 out of 14 days away from home - first to Irvine, CA (beautiful weather) and the next week to Chicago and Boston (much less beautiful...suffice it to say that the high in Chicago when we left was 12!!)
Margaret is continuing to do great in school - she is learning new things everyday and keeps us on our toes. She repeats everything and listens to everything, so occasionally Jim and I hear our words parrotted back to us a week or two later and realize that we need to be even more careful about what we say. The funny thing is that she also remembers everything - the other day we went out for pizza, and she kept saying that it wasn't the "right" pizza place and she wanted to go to the other one...after a bit, Jim and I realized she was talking about the pizza place we went to in New Orleans - over a month ago. WOW. She really impresses us! As soon as we figure out how to get her to go to sleep without a fight (yes, we are back to that again), we'll be in business. She is loving her kitchen, her crayons and markers, her new scissors, and anything musical. I think she inherited her father's talent for music! She also loves to sing...one of her favorites being "Hooked on a Feeling" from a kids' music CD that we play on the way home from school.
John (aka: Jack the Destroyer) is continuing to grow, and learn. He is such a lovebug, but he is in a hitting phase - everytime you pick him up, he smacks you in the face...it's such a fun game to play! Jack also had his adenoids out on January 17th - it wasn't too bad...the worst part was being cooped up in the hospital for 20 hours afterwards. We are hopeful that this does the trick and his ear infections and colds lessen as we move into warmer weather. Everyone keep their fingers crossed!! Jack also loves anything musical - his dancing is such fun to watch - pure joy. It is amazing that such a little person (ok, not little...he's tipping the scales at almost 35 pounds now) can love to dance and "groove" so much. It's a lot of fun to watch. We are working with him on new words, it's hard for him to get a word in edgewise with his "chatty" sister - he's got his sign language down though (please, thank you, up, down, happy, more, eat, drink). I will keep everyone updated after his 15 month check up later this month.
One other big piece of news - we had our first dentist appointment for both kids - it was a great experience, and both kids got clean bills of health! Yippeee!! Meg wasn't sure at first, but she came around as she got to watch "Dora" on the ceiling as they cleaned her teeth.
Other than that, we are just keeping busy with birthday parties, and trying to find time for relaxation in between all the craziness. What a blessing to be surrounded by so many friends though. We love it!! I promise to try and do a better job with updates. I hope everyone has a wonderful (and warmer) spring!

Proud Papa

2007-02-06T09:54:00.000-08:00

Three peas in a pod.

A Fun Filled Sunday Afternoon...

2007-02-06T09:51:00.000-08:00

We look cute here...

Ahhh....sisterly love - a beautiful thing to see

Well, a few minutes of love counterbalanced with a few minutes of big sister torment...

Holiday Wrap Up

2007-01-09T14:05:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!! I can't believe we are already into 2007 (9 days to be exact) and I'm still struggling with a bit of the holiday letdown, I'm not going to lie. This year was so much fun as the kids were both interactive, both excited and Santa was oh-so-good to them.
We did an early Christmas with just our family of 4 before we headed down to New Orleans to spend a week with MeeMaw and PopPop.
We had a great week - hanging out , enjoying the company of friends and family. We started a new family tradition of reading the Night Before Christmas (well, I have to admit that we didn't make it all the way through - the attention span isn't quite there yet).
We came back to Dallas for New Years and spent it at home, nothing exciting and rousing here.

As for milestones and other excitement in our lives -- Jack is getting more and more verbal and fun to interact with every day. He sings his alphabet (ok, he hums a tune that sounds VAGUEYL like the alphabet song), says "sister," "bye," (clear as a bell), "kitty," "dog" and many other words that seem to be escaping this slacking mother's brain...I'll get back to you with those.

Meg is such a powerhouse personality - I mean, she is just a joy to be around. There are times that we really wish she had an "off" button (like at 6am) but all in all it just shows how smart and engaging she will be as she grows. Meg has started Spanish and Computer classes and really enjoys them both - what a smart little cookie!!
She adores her little brother and now each time he cries her response is "don't cry, Jack...I'm here" - yes, Meg, I'm sure the only reason he's crying is because he was missing you. Well, anything's possible I suppose.

Other than that, we are status quo around here - Me working and trying to travel less (the year isn't off to a auspicious beginning as I already have 2 trips scheduled in January), the kids, Jim and I hanging out on weekends - trying to recharge from the week. The kids look forward to school each Monday, so that is definitely showing their love of education....or maybe just their love of their friends, teachers and the fun activities they do. Who knows.

I guess that's it from Larkin Land. Love to all, and wishes for a healthy, happy and exciting 2007!

2007-01-09T14:04:00.003-08:00

Christmas Eve with my Christmas Angel

2007-01-09T14:04:00.002-08:00

Now, Mommy????

2007-01-09T14:04:00.001-08:00

Another view of the mass of presents that Santa delivered

2007-01-09T14:04:00.000-08:00

Christmas Morning....someone's very excited!

2007-01-09T14:03:00.001-08:00

Larkin Family - Christmas morning before opening gifts...hard to hold the attention of Miss Meg who's ready to tear into the gifts. Jack just wants to be free!!!

2007-01-09T14:03:00.000-08:00

Jack reading his newest book...The bump on his head courtesy of the collision he had with the patio outside :( (clearly, he's still a genius)!

2007-01-09T14:01:00.001-08:00

Meg and her new ride on toy - FUN STUFF!

2007-01-09T14:01:00.000-08:00

Here's the aftermath of Christmas morning - the tornado (aka: our children) have done their damage!

2007-01-09T13:57:00.000-08:00

Are these two twins or WHAT!?

2007-01-09T13:56:00.002-08:00

Daddy hanging out with Jack, Meg and their new toys

2007-01-09T13:56:00.001-08:00

Meg climbing over Jack to see what else is hiding over there...

2007-01-09T13:56:00.000-08:00

Mommy, Jack and Meg at our Christmas at home before heading to New Orleans

2007-01-09T13:55:00.000-08:00

Meg making sure her brother is dressed as the true "gift" he is

2007-01-09T13:54:00.000-08:00

Jack with his friends Alexis and Michael - eating all the cheese puffs they'll give him...he's happy - although he looks a bit like "Gulliver's travels" in this particular high chair.

2007-01-09T13:53:00.002-08:00

Hey Daddy - look! I'm going to put some cookies in my napkin to save for later...

2007-01-09T13:53:00.001-08:00

Meg laughing at her friend Ethan and his dad - and did I mention that cheese puffs make ANYTHING better??

2007-01-09T13:53:00.000-08:00

Our little helper for her Christmas party at school - so proud of handing out her red cups!

2006-12-11T06:05:00.000-08:00

"We wish you a Merry Christmas!" (December 10th, 2006)

Winter Update

2006-12-10T19:42:00.000-08:00

Hello Everyone!
We've had a very busy November and beginning of December. First and foremost - HOW IS IT ALREADY ALMOST CHRISTMAS??? Where did the year go? OK, now that we've covered that, I'll give y'all a run down of what we've been up to over the past few months.
The second weekend in November was our 10 year college reunion (has it really already been 10 years...it REALLY isn't possible, it is?!!) We had a good time with friends before and after the game - as for the game...it was a good time, and the Mustangs actually had a few good plays (they ended up losing) while we were there, but wrangling our 2 children was more than we could handle and we made a break for it at halftime. Margaret had lots of fun, and several times told us that "I will go here when I get big." -- Jim and I are going to have to step up the savings plan...ha! Anyway, all in all it was a great day and we found ourselves several times looking around in wonderment that we were back where we met with two beautiful children - it was such fun!
On Sunday of that weekend we had Jack's first birthday party - it was a good time, and fun to spend time with all our friends. Margaret got confused a few times that the party actually wasn't for her, but Jack didn't mind - he toddled after all the older kids, happy as a clam (there is rarely a time that he isn't, to be honest).
The following Friday, MeeMaw, PopPop and Nana came into town so we could celebrate MeeMaw's birthday - it was a fantastic weekend, full of good company, good food (the French Room still can't be beat), and good times. We really enjoyed spending time together with everyone, and Margaret loved the "party a minute" mentality of the weekend - of course, she'll enjoy ANY party for ANY reason!!!
Thanksgiving week was very busy and very fun!! Grandma and Granddaddy got into town Tuesday night, and Uncle Tom and Aunt Alana arrived Wednesday. We all enjoyed some good family time, some really delicious food (thanks, Mom...your pumpkin pie is still the best ever). We visited the Arboretum and the Dallas Zoo - and Jack really did think his Granddaddy is the coolest guy around - it was so much fun for me to see the two of them together.
Phew! There really has been lots going on. In addition to all that, Margaret is really a little conversationalist now - she and I spend Saturday mornings together shopping, or hanging out in Starbucks, or just hanging out at home - she is quickly becoming my best little friend around! Of course, we went shopping yesterday, and she kept telling me that we had shopped enough for everyone else, and could we please go buy her something else? (Instead I was able to divert her attention to the cool ride-on firetruck). Jack is just getting to be a big boy - it's with mixed emotion I watch him getting more and more talkative (ball, thank you, bye bye, mama, dada, and some other babbling that he sure seems to understand - we're still working on the meaning), and I find myself getting sad that he's growing up so fast. I miss my baby, but I'm so glad to see him becoming a toddler, and interested in everything (and I do mean EVERYTHING - if he shouldn't be in it, all the better)! The kids are playing more and more together, and Margaret always likes to help us put Jack to bed at night and get him up in the morning. Their shining faces each morning make me love them even more, if that's possible. Every day I think it isn't, and every day I do.
Oh, one other VERY exciting piece of news...we no longer use bottles - it's true...it's a bottle free, formula free house!!!! (Daddy and I are most excited that we no longer have to wash the bottles, and buy the formula...YIPPEEE)!
This weekend, we got a surprise visit from two of my cousins from Tennessee - Pris brought us a delicious meal, and both she and Jimmy were quite a hit with the kiddos - thanks again for the visit - we hope to do it again soon.
So, all that brings us to this morning, when we went to Brunch with Santa at Stonebriar. It was such fun to dress up the kids in matching outfits, and take them to see him. Of course, as you'll see below, the kids weren't all that sure about sitting with him, but overall it was a great time, and I was again reminded of the magic of the Christmas spirit. The sparking decorations, our wonderful friends (Thanks again, Shell & Kevin for letting us be a part of your family today), our beautiful children...As I said over and over again...we are so blessed. We hope this time of the year brings joy and peace to you and yours.

2006-12-10T19:41:00.000-08:00

Matching Larkin kiddos at brunch - finally having had their fill of Christmas treats.

2006-12-10T19:31:00.001-08:00

The Larkins had breakfast with Santa

2006-12-10T19:31:00.000-08:00

Breakfast with Santa -- As you can see, our children were less than impressed (don't worry, we didn't subject anyone to their screams longer than it took to take this picture)

2006-12-10T19:30:00.000-08:00

The first snowfall and Margaret's make shift gloves (she's wearing Daddy's socks). Brrrr...it was cold, but pretty!

2006-12-10T19:29:00.001-08:00

Granddaddy, Jack, Margaret and Mommy playing in the leaves - SUCH fun!

2006-12-10T19:29:00.000-08:00

Jack and Grandma at the zoo --- so much to see, so little time

2006-12-10T19:26:00.000-08:00

The Larkin Family, Thanksgiving 2006

2006-12-10T19:25:00.000-08:00

Daddy and Jack-o...my two handsome, handsome men.

2006-12-10T19:24:00.001-08:00

Meg making a break for it at the end of a busy day at the Arboretum - what a beautiful photo.

2006-12-10T19:24:00.000-08:00

Mommy wrestling Margaret away from the edge of the pond

2006-12-10T19:23:00.001-08:00

Grandma showing Margaret the giant Koi in the pond at the Arboretum

2006-12-10T19:23:00.000-08:00

Nah...it's a lot more fun the ride the armadillos than look at the fish -- wait...maybe I can do both if I just lean a little more...

2006-12-10T19:22:00.000-08:00

Come ON, Granddaddy....let's go THIS way

2006-12-10T19:21:00.000-08:00

See, I really can make my Granddaddy do anything...but he is a good wing man to have along. We had lots of fun at the Arboretum

2006-12-10T19:20:00.000-08:00

Margaret hard at work on Aunt Alana's art project -- an igloo (it ended up looking more like a pile of toppings in the middle of a bunch of sugar cubes, but we tried).

2006-12-10T19:19:00.000-08:00

Yes, I'm a dapper guy...and I'm styling in my duds from my aunt and uncle!

2006-12-10T19:18:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving '06 -- Uncle Tom and Alana with the kids...I'm not sure who's having a better time.

2006-12-10T19:16:00.000-08:00

Here's a sign of things to come. Margaret thinks it's the greatest, but Jack's not too sure.

2006-12-10T19:15:00.000-08:00

C'mon...you know you think I'm the cutest girl here...

2006-12-10T19:14:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday, MeMaw - We all love you!

2006-12-10T19:13:00.000-08:00

Margaret is very excited to be sharing her chicken and blueberries....and we might be showing off JUST a bit for our Nana.

2006-12-10T19:11:00.000-08:00

I can get used to this thing you call cake...I am glad I turned one to celebrate!

2006-12-10T19:10:00.001-08:00

MMM....yummy cake and squishy too!!

2006-12-10T19:10:00.000-08:00

Margaret loves her brother's cake....or maybe she's just had a bit too much of it - we're not sure.

2006-12-10T19:09:00.001-08:00

Yes...this is YUMMY cake!!

2006-12-10T19:09:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday, Jack!!

2006-11-13T15:03:00.001-08:00

Mom trying (in vain) to keep Jack from running onto the field - this little man certainly thinks this is his calling!!

2006-11-13T15:03:00.000-08:00

Is Meg loving this or what?? She had a blast watching all the kids, running around like a maniac, and oh yeah...the football game!

2006-11-13T15:02:00.000-08:00

My new favorite picture of these two -- the PERFECT photo in front of the Cox School of Business

2006-11-13T15:01:00.000-08:00

Jack clapping for his future football team - Goooo Red, Goooo Blue...Goooo Mustangs...S-M-U!

2006-10-31T20:28:00.000-08:00

HAPPY HALLOWEEN - 2006

2006-10-31T20:27:00.001-08:00

Margaret cleans out the "yucky seeds" inside the pumpkin in preparation for the creation of "Happy" the pumpkin