MrKidney's Blog

Welcome Madilene

2012-02-06T14:26:00.001-08:00

She came out and needed to be held and everybody was willing to do just that. Madilene we are so happy you are here!

Before all the Snow...we had a little snow

2012-01-20T09:07:00.001-08:00

Incoming!

2012-01-09T10:00:00.001-08:00

The final stages have begun, we are getting ready for the new arrival!

Yawn

2011-12-30T13:09:00.000-08:00

The new blog-hog is giving everybody a big yawn, Happy New Year!

Christmas Eve 2011

2011-12-24T09:24:00.000-08:00

Sitting in her new favorite chair somebody is ready for Santa to show up. I personally am really looking forward to today as we celebrate this awesome season. Hanging out with Grandma, Grandpa and Aunt Dalene going to church and finishing with pizza dinner. Everything is right in the world!

This Year's Dress

2011-12-11T15:27:00.001-08:00

Yes Christmas like everything else in Kaylene's life demmands performance and subtly!

Hot Dog It's Christmas!

2011-11-28T23:48:00.001-08:00

Here we are trimming the tree and getting ready for the big jolly guy. Yes we will give into the whole Santa myth, why, cause its fun. The bottom pic is Kaylene getting ready for Thanksgiving, she looks more and more like a little girl everyday. Well, let's face it...she is a little girl.

Great Wolf Lodge

2011-11-14T16:31:00.001-08:00

It was cold and rainy and Jolene had an extra vacation day. We figured it was time to go to the Great Wolf Lodge water theme park. And it was a perfect choice for a bad weather weekend. Its hard to describe the amount of things you can do, BUT I will say its the closest the northwest comes to Disneyland. An awesome choice for any two year old and her family.

Trunk or Treat

2011-10-30T18:41:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween! and so far its been a great one. Our Church this year did a version of Halloween that I just loved called trunk or treat. Basically, you deck out the back of your vehicle and circle it around the other parked trunks in the church parking lot. Then kids and families walk around gazing at the spectacles and ask for candy. We loved it! Above is our very fast ladybug, if you aren't fast enough you will miss her.

Pig Tails

2011-10-07T12:33:00.001-07:00

Well its about time, right? For today's play date I asked Kim if she could help Kaylene with her hair. The request was for pig tails and don't they look awesome. More importantly, Kaylene loves them! What a funny little girl.

Goodbye Chava

2011-10-06T08:34:00.001-07:00

Yesterday, Chava passed away. Bad day. Can you believe we had Chava for 13 1/2 years, what an amazing dog! Chava taught us a lot of things, but I think most importantly she taught us to be less selfish. She was the ground work for a future family and she set a tone for both Kaylene and baby number two. She did not struggle much in the end and passed away with very little pain. Thank you Chava for letting us be your owners, there will never be another dog like you.

Let's start this Party!

2011-09-29T09:21:00.000-07:00

For the best cousin ever, Happy Birthday!

Highlights

2011-09-22T08:46:00.000-07:00

The following post has nothing to do with the above video with the exception of all the general goofiness that comes out of Kaylene. Anyway, I need to write the following down so I don't forget what it was like to be a small family.

Last night while cruising around the neighborhood and a quick trip to Trader Joe's, Kaylene was getting antsy in her car seat (nothing new). Jolene found a discarded Sandra Boyton book in the back seat "Barnyard Dance" and proceeded to give it to Kaykes. She refused. At which point Jolene opened up the book and began to sing the words. We all know Jolene has some minor (or major) musical talent and began to rhythmically rap the song like a square dance caller.

Yes I was driving, but I had to jump in, I began to beat the dashboard with my hand. It was a very hollow steady thump thump thump. And ya know, it sounded pretty good. Well, good enough for a small jam session in the car. And our target audience LOVED it. She began to clap her hands and bounce her head back and forth. She kept on repeating again, again and AGAIN. We did it so many times that Jolene became winded and my hand began to hurt.

It was awesome.

Jolene commented that this time will not last forever and very shortly Kaylene will be rolling her eyes at her very corny parents, but for now, we have her right where we want her. Here is to future jam sessions!

We need a name!

2011-09-20T08:24:00.000-07:00

So we know its a girl and we think we might have a name, BUT we are open to any suggestions. No name is off the table! Some before and after reactions up above (enjoy).

Happy Birthday...Aunt Dalene

2011-09-14T16:24:00.000-07:00

Kim just sent these...

2011-08-29T16:05:00.001-07:00

This past weekend we went to the "new to me" Remlinger Farms, its not as boring as it once was. Pony rides, Canoe Adventures and Crazy cars (more on that come). Also, a bonus picture from Renton River Days, try to guess what that "burger" is made of, oh it was so tasty!

Dalene and Kaylene

2011-08-23T08:20:00.000-07:00

It's time we had a picture of these two. Aunt Dalane and Kaylene had a blast at Luther Burbank park this past week. Fun picture!

The City and my Nephew

2011-08-12T19:49:00.000-07:00

My sister is in town and she shares my fathers photographic eye. Pretty awesome picture wouldn't you say! there are some many things I love about this picture.

Grandma's Miracle Bread

2011-08-02T12:49:00.001-07:00

About this time every year Grandma Norma makes the most wonderful zucchini bread. Just after lunch today, Kaylene and I took part in this heavenly delight. In my recollection, my mother has never missed fired once on making this awesome sugar bread. Thank you Grandma we can taste your love in every bite!

More Ducks

2011-07-26T12:21:00.000-07:00

Kaylene, keeps asking for this video. Duck, again. Duck, again...please. For your further enjoyment and Kaylene's.

Renton River Days

2011-07-25T20:45:00.000-07:00

So, we celebrated Renton River Days this year and watched them fill the Cedar River with rubber ducks. I love the look on Kaylene's face - How many do you think I can catch and take home? Would Mother let me have 53? Where would they live? Yeah, I need to get down in that water NOW!

Whoa... 2 years old

2011-07-03T19:19:00.001-07:00

Yup, she is two and she is wonderful. Who knew being a parent would be so awesome! I never thought I could love something so much. oh, and she LOVED the Red Robin birthday song.

Vacation Hawaii - Back in Seattle tomorrow

2011-06-30T21:54:00.000-07:00

Here they are! Augie and Kaylene on the final night of the trip, as you can tell they have bonded as cousins. The same effect was felt by the whole family, what an amazing trip!

New Cut

2011-06-14T09:49:00.001-07:00

There was a request for a new haircut shot. Well, its shorter, but the girl needs to grow more hair!

Cup Kaykes

2011-06-09T22:34:00.001-07:00

Last night was family desert night, we decided to try something new. Yup, you guessed it, Cupcake Royal. Kaylene slowly devoured two of the cakes, while her mother and I just giggled through the entire experience.

Jolene Insists!

2011-05-28T20:26:00.000-07:00

Its time to put up a new photo, anyway, here is the CBC hiking group. Despite all of the rain lately, we have had some pretty amazing hikes. Both of these were taken from the top of Tiger Mountain, but taken from different Tiger peaks.

Peaceful

2011-05-15T18:48:00.000-07:00

What a very very very busy weekend, this girl went all out. Anyway, we got stuck in traffic last night and this was the result. She is so wonderful and we are very thankful to have her!

The latest happenings with the young Kidney's

2011-04-29T06:34:00.001-07:00

My latest batch of cellphone pics, enjoy!

Tuesday Hikes!

2011-04-07T16:29:00.000-07:00

Your typical weekly adventure!

Wheee

2011-03-20T08:15:00.000-07:00

Kaylene is a swinger! It was a sunny Saturday and we quickly drove to the park (like all people living in Seattle). She sees the swing and its all over, nothing can convince her there is anything else. We try the slide, she runs to the swing, we try the monkey bars, she runs to the swing, heck, we tried Canadian geese, NOPE, swing! go Kaylene go.

Time to Read

2011-03-19T19:18:00.001-07:00

She loves to "read", basically, she sits down and babbles about the words and images. BUT, she is reading. Hopefully, we are fostering a good habit.

Red Thing

2011-03-01T11:11:00.000-08:00

Who knew, hours of enjoyment...

Dinner at the Tsai's

2011-02-27T19:33:00.000-08:00

We eat with the Tsai's quite a bit and this Sunday was no exception. Pat made some of the thickest steaks we have had in some time. Thick, juicy and wonderful, anyway, enjoy the girls "sharing" a chair.

Snacking

2011-02-23T16:27:00.000-08:00

It's been our afternoon tradition to watch an hour of Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, we both love it (for different reasons). I know I have said no TV during the day, but this show gets an exception. Donald, Mickey, Pluto and Goofy are great pals and come to this parents rescue. So enjoy the photos and have a Hotdog Day!

San Diego Trip - a little late

2011-02-14T21:47:00.000-08:00

So, its a little late, but its totally worth your viewing time.

Park Day!

2011-02-02T15:20:00.000-08:00

I love this time with her!

Groove

2011-01-11T23:13:00.000-08:00

Make sure you turn the volume UP!

The Grand Opening

2011-01-09T19:15:00.000-08:00

Random Christmas video that needs no explanation.

No!

2010-12-23T19:20:00.001-08:00

The one word parents dread hearing, was spoken by our offspring today. Admittedly, I was changing her diaper, which we both hate. Kaylene was reaching for her dirty bottom and I declared, No Kaylene! She quickly responded back with a no no No! She proceeded to use the word later with her mother. I was really hoping she would never learn the word, NO!

The Big Ask

2010-12-05T08:51:00.001-08:00

This morning Kaylene came down for breakfast and said, "Mama Nana!" Translation: Mama can I have a Banana! Yes, by all means, you may have a banana for breakfast. These moments happen so fast sometimes Its hard to recognize they are happening at all. So fast, to fast.

Snow Day 2010

2010-11-23T17:59:00.001-08:00

She loves snow, she is so awesome!

Wiggle Worm

2010-11-21T07:51:00.001-08:00

Mom asked last night, do we still consider Kaylene a baby? I said no, I think she is considered to be a toddler. But really , she is a "Wiggle Worm". This kid will not sit still for anything!

Something Fun

2010-11-10T20:48:00.001-08:00

Kaylene going to bed, Kaylene and Niara in the park (last saturday) and somebody surprised us with a picture. Enjoy and a have a wonderful day!

First Haircut

2010-11-03T17:45:00.001-07:00

Time to give the ragamuffin a haircut, after 16 months, yeah, its time to get a haircut. She did very well, she very much enjoyed all the attention that Grandma and Dad gave her. Hopefully, she will continue to enjoy the Barber, I know I always have. She looks very striking! Like her Mom.

Strawberry Fairy

2010-10-31T20:20:00.000-07:00

Tonight our daughter transformed right before our eyes, she became the Strawberry Fairy. And she owned it! Does October really have to end...

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-28T08:35:00.000-07:00

I woke up to find Ginny Weasley and daughter, sadly no Harry. Man I love October! October should be a 12 month year.

The need to be clean

2010-10-09T09:36:00.001-07:00

Kaylene needs to be ready, clean and prepared for the week ahead!

Pictures on my Phone Part 1

2010-10-03T19:23:00.000-07:00

So often I receive text messages on my phone that inevitably get throw away, I thought it was time to start collecting them. These images are insights into other peoples lives and their goings on. It's time I blogged about it, above are. 1. My parents at the balloon show in Albuquerque (yes THE balloon show) 2. Random pic of the nephew 3. Jolene's trip to San Fran 4. Kaylene at the mall 5. Play Date! Anyway, enjoy and happy Sunday.

Can he really be 1?

2010-09-30T09:26:00.001-07:00

Aunt Jolene, Uncle Dave and Kaylene are wishing you the very best on your birthday. We think you are awesome and deserve nothing but the best. May it be a day of hugs, kisses and carefree play.

Fiestas Patrias

2010-09-26T21:08:00.001-07:00

So every year, in South Park, we celebrate Mexico's independence from Spain. Jolene and Kaylene took it upon themselves to celebrate the liberation on Saturday. Jolene says the parade now equals Issaquah's salmon days, thats a pretty bold statement. Guess I will have to check it out next year.

Happy Birthday Grandpa Kidney!

2010-09-19T00:19:00.000-07:00

And you thought we forgot. Nah, it was just a busy day of walking, dancing, singing, talking, eating and napping. But we always find time for our Grandfather, we love you very much.

Happy Birthday Aunt Dalene

2010-09-14T09:22:00.000-07:00

Sorry, no walking yet. Regardless, have a great day Dalene!

So we let Kaylene drive

2010-08-22T21:22:00.001-07:00

It was a great weekend for a wedding, Spokane was sunny and all was delightful. The drive home, however, not so great. Mom and Dad were quite tired and Kaylene decided to pony-up and take her parents back to Seattle. This meant less crying (sweet), but more road rage when we hit the nasty traffic in Cle Elum (oh well). Don't ask how she did it, she just did.

Escaping the hot weather

2010-08-16T06:52:00.000-07:00

It was hot and Mommy needed a break, it was time to take Kaylene on a hike. After church I grabbed Steph, Pat and Aliya to hike under the shady trees of coal creek. As usual, there was the general silliness and camaraderie.

AND below is a bonus Augie shot (I love this kid).

She is a Natural!

2010-08-05T13:08:00.001-07:00

I know you all think Kaylene is special and she really is. However, today she blew me away! We went to our first swimming lessons. We were a few weeks behind the class and I feared she might be slower than the other children. Wow, that was an understatement. She did the following in the 30 minutes we were there; front kicking, backstroke kicking, blowing bubbles, played with a rubber duck and (with a ton of help from Dad) she jumped into the pool (really!). No tears, just bold determination! I have never been more proud. I love the water and I think Kaylene does too.

Kelsey Creek Sunday

2010-08-01T18:46:00.001-07:00

It was unclear what we where going to do this Sunday afternoon. But I told Jolene to point the car towards the Eastside, I knew we would find something. We did! I recalled going to Kelsey Creek Park as a kid and young adult (Pony lessons and Cross Country). We had a blast! Kaylene loved the lambs, bunnies, horses and one giant pig. If you have not been, now is the time to go!

P.S. And they let you pet everything :-)

Thank You!

2010-07-24T08:34:00.000-07:00

We are very blessed to have so many invested and loving family members. Over the past few weeks we have had several folks watching dogs, sisters, brother-in-laws and babies. We honestly couldn't do it without you. Specifically, thank you Dalene for watching Chava, thank you Mom and Paul for hosting all of San Diego (and saving Kaylene from the fire) and finally Mom and Dad

K. for watching Kaylene during my rafting trip. Enjoy, and watch the video again as Kaylene says thank you in her own splashy way.

Dish Helper

2010-07-06T23:23:00.000-07:00

Kaylene loves to help unload the dishwasher, so today she climbed in and began to help Dad with those hard-to-reach dishes. Amazing skills! Also, check out that dimple in the left cheek.

So many events and Costco

2010-07-01T19:20:00.000-07:00

What an awesome week, and well, rather sad. Kaylene and I went to the Library, which was a big win for both Daddy and daughter. Then we paid tribute to the South park Bridge and her final hours (Both Mommy and Daddy had a few tears), the bridge is now officially closed. And of course, we ended up at Costco, always fun! Oh! and somebody is turning 1 soon.

Down by the shore

2010-06-22T17:29:00.001-07:00

Today, Daddy and daughter journeyed to Discovery park. We walked for about an hour and found our way down to the beach, were we proceeded to taste as many salty rocks as we could find. On our way back, Kaylene fell asleep in her baby backpack (which was pretty funny to see, but hard to describe). Jumping into the car, we rolled all the windows down and enjoyed the warm breeze (its finally summer!).

Green grass

2010-06-14T07:31:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, we went to the park with our good friends the Tsai's. Kaylene really enjoyed the grass and Aliya really enjoyed jumping on Uncle Dave's stomach!

Happy Birthday Aunt Karen!

2010-05-24T18:34:00.000-07:00

From the young Kidney's to Aunt Karen, Happy Birthday!

Lock Down!

2010-05-14T11:23:00.001-07:00

And I will ensure she never escape!!! Despite the last picture, she really does find the bars fascinating. She is so funny and amazing, all at the same time, how is this possible?

Oh Martha, they are so fast, just wait...

2010-05-06T16:55:00.000-07:00

She moves around chairs, she hides under desks, she rubs the walls and she follows me. Yes, she follows me around. Its incredible and it brings a whole new level of tired.

Dad's video care package

2010-04-21T19:49:00.000-07:00

Since the volcanic eruption in Iceland my father has been stunk in the UK . I know he misses us, but we really really really miss him. We love you Dad and want you home soon!

70 years ago today

2010-04-17T08:18:00.000-07:00

I just want to say that 70 is the new 40. Grandma, we love you very very much! Happy Birthday!

Sunday in 3 minutes

2010-04-11T19:40:00.000-07:00

Buckle up and enjoy the ride!

Silliness

2010-03-21T21:33:00.000-07:00

Wow! What a week and what an amazing weekend. As I approach mid-life I appreciate family and friends more than ever. I am extremely lucky to be surrounded by some amazing people and their children. And really, what week would not be complete without a shamrock mash potato cake.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2010-03-17T08:23:00.001-07:00

Just like her mother, Kaylene looks wonderful in green. I hope you all have a great St. Patty's Day!

The stand...kinda

2010-03-14T19:33:00.000-07:00

Can you believe she starting doing this, I can't. Wasn't she in somebodies tummy 12 months ago?

Snack time!

2010-03-12T16:54:00.000-08:00

As we hopefully get closer to teeth we have been trying more and more solid food. Above we have Kaylene dining on one of her favorite snacks. Don't ask we what they are, what I do know, they're Mommy approved and very tasty.

In the sink

2010-02-21T22:43:00.000-08:00

This girl loves to take a bath.

Mickey Effect

2010-02-15T13:09:00.000-08:00

Mickey Mouse does this to Kaylene, man, those guys at Disney know what they are doing.

Happy Valentines Day!

2010-02-14T18:14:00.000-08:00

We had a number of close friends over tonight for Valentine's Day and of course we had a ton of fun. Above, David Robert had a valentine for Kaylene, which he promptly began squishing with his hand. Goodtimes!

Upside-down Kayke's

2010-02-07T16:01:00.000-08:00

Another wonderful week, with the most amazing creature. This week we found a tickle spot and enjoyed extended exersaucer time.

Squash

2010-01-17T19:14:00.000-08:00

Kaylene knows how to eat and she is quite good at it. She has pretty much liked everything we have feed her with the exception of peas. Tonight she tried squash and really enjoyed it, as you can see.

Melt your heart

2010-01-13T17:26:00.000-08:00

The above video is totally intended to melt Jolene's heart and any other human out there.

First Ferry and Gifts

2010-01-11T11:05:00.000-08:00

(update) okay, lets try this again

Sorry for the late Sunday evening post, but I figured I'd make it up to you with a silly movie from last weekend. Above we find Kaylene and family viewing her first ferry and later we opened some late Christmas gifts from Grandpa Ray and Grandma Ginny.

Cousins

2010-01-05T19:45:00.000-08:00

The movie every grandparent has been waiting for, the meeting of two baby masterminds, Kaylene and Augie. Starting with Kaylene’s first plane trip and ending at the Fess Parker Doubletree inn.

Surfing with Zach ...well sorta

2010-01-04T17:49:00.000-08:00

We finally made it down to Santa Barbara to visit Kaylene's cousin Augie. However, no trip to Cali would be complete without another punishing attempt at surfing with Uncle Zach (or UZ). This being my second attempt it can only be describe with one quote from UZ, "Hey Zach, am I doing better than my sister on her first try?" Zach, "No, not really" (not an exact quote, but close enough). Indeed, I need more practice with this coastal enigma, I embody the term Wipeout!

Giggle

2009-12-26T21:39:00.000-08:00

Kaylene will laugh if we are pushing her in her stroller and stomping on the ground at the same time. We have no idea why she laughs at this. Perhaps, she thinks we are tripping or she likes the way our her hair falls on our faces. Regardless, she laughs and we love it.

MmmMMerrry Christmmmmas AaaMmmmAAaa

2009-12-25T09:23:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas 2009 as said by a six month old Kaylene!

Fat Feet

2009-12-20T19:49:00.000-08:00

This will be a special Christmas for the Jr. Kidney's. Why? because we have Kaykes! As I told my wife earlier tonight, I never thought that this "being a parent thing" was going to be so much fun. Thank you Jesus for all the wonderful things you have done for our family - and will continue to do!

Way too cute

2009-12-13T13:01:00.000-08:00

With almost every Sunday that I post I try to give you something warm and snuggly to start your week. What could be more warm and snuggly than a little girl in a bear outfit?

Workin on a roll over

2009-12-10T12:58:00.000-08:00

We are hoping within the next month our daughter will roll from her tummy to her back. Kaylene and I practice this on a daily basis, however, what you see above is what she does really well, she is so advanced.

Test Run 720p

2009-12-08T15:38:00.000-08:00

For my birthday I received money to purchase a camcorder, I choose to go with a mini HD recorder. Its smaller than an iphone and very simple to use, but I realize I am going to need more light, always a difficult thing to do this time of year.

First Ornament

2009-12-06T00:21:00.000-08:00

Just like Kaylene's cousin this was a week of firsts, although we choose to steer clear of Mr. Claus. Instead we went to hallmark and selected her first ornament. Clearly this was a big hit for her parents and her aunt but quite puzzling when you are five months old.

Please smile Kaykes

2009-12-04T13:06:00.000-08:00

She giggles, we have seen it and heard it, however when the camera is on, nothing. Please forgive the video game "Mario" accent, recently, Jolene and I picked up a copy of the crazy Italian plumber game and the characters are infectious. Unfortunately for Kaykes this means and she gets extra heaps of her parents bad humor, "Hey, itsa me Mario!"

Grandpa Kidney and Kaylene

2009-11-22T18:40:00.000-08:00

Sunday evening is a time for reflection, the calm before the weekly storm. Take a quiet moment and reflect on all the good things, because we really have quite a few. Happy Sunday and get ready for another exciting holiday season. I just realized, Kaylene will be viewing her first Christmas tree, so cool! Wait! Double cool, Augie will be viewing his first tree too.

They may be brown...

2009-11-06T15:33:00.001-08:00

The ongoing question in our house has been, "what color are those eyes?" We may be getting closer to that answer.

First Halloween

2009-11-01T18:15:00.000-08:00

Yeah! Kaylene's first Halloween was a great success. She enjoyed pumpkins, family, dress up and candy - well, maybe not candy. Maybe next year, maybe never.

Start them young

2009-10-30T11:45:00.000-07:00

Kaylene's cousin has been captivated by Baseball (noooooo!) - this was cause for much concern in the Kidney household. As you know this is a Sc-Fi house and I needed to be sure Kaylene was going to be raised in the proper fashion. No worries! apparently Captain Kirk is cool at any age OR could it be all those silly colors...hmmmm.

Finding Kaylene

2009-10-26T12:20:00.000-07:00

Kaylene played her first game of hide and seek today. She doesn’t quite have the nuances down, however given time I guessing she will become a master. She is also very good at finding her feet, opening her mouth and Dad’s all time favorite – screaming at the top of her lungs. Enjoy the peaceful moments.

Cute!

2009-10-22T20:57:00.001-07:00

Eat your heart out!

Hmmmm Finger

2009-10-21T13:21:00.000-07:00

I have feared from the start that Kaylene would be a thumb sucker; little did I know you can also be an pointer sucker. Jolene quickly rushed me up the stairs yesterday to see this new and most soothing behavior. Human invention never ceases in the Kidney household.

Kaylene finds a hand

2009-10-14T08:49:00.000-07:00

Starting with a new Tuesday tradition Kaylene and I went to visit Grandma. As you can tell she is very preoccupied with stuffing her hand into her mouth, which at times can be quite disturbing OR amusing. Regardless, Kaylene is always entertaining.

She Smiles, Finally!

2009-10-06T14:51:00.001-07:00

This child has simply refused to smile for the camera - but I caught her off guard today. I had bundled her up and placed her in her car seat. For some reason she thought this was funny, so I quickly grabbed a camera and behold!

Another one for Jolene

2009-10-02T10:19:00.000-07:00

Because we know its hard being away from Kay.

At Home Dad

2009-10-01T10:31:00.000-07:00

Today marks the first day of my stay-at-home parenting responsibilities, so far so go. Kaylene has succeeded at going through her first morning cycle, she slept, she went pee pee, she drank a full bottle of milk and spit up on her father. But we both agree; we miss mommy.

Welcome to the Family

2009-09-30T15:06:00.000-07:00

Today I became an Uncle! We are so excited to have Augie Holt join our family. His picture is already hanging on the refrigerator door. Congratulations Martha and Zach, he is a handsome little boy!!!