From Dry to Damp (and back again...)

Tortilla Flats

2012-02-13T16:23:00.000-08:00

Arizona is 100 years old which makes me have the nagging feeling to teach my girls a little Arizona history. The Grand Canyon was out because that place just gives me major anxiety thinking about it, so this weekend we choose the Superstition Mountains and headed out to the Apache Trail.

Our first stop was a restaurant called Tortilla Flats. It is known for the dollar bills it has on the wall. Legend has it that the Gold Miners used to put dollar bills on the wall when they ordered a drink and they just never took them down. There are bills from all over the world everywhere. The food was great and the beer (Superstition Mule Oil) tasted might fine.

It was really hard for some people to resist touching EVERY dollar bill that was at their eye level. But I guess that is what you would expect.

Our lunch conversation consisted mostly of explaining what theft, stealing, and jail meant.

We finished the day visiting the Ghost Town on the Apache Trail. We ate ice cream with homemade waffle cones that were still warm - so yummy! We sat in the corner and covered our ears for the gun fight. We were 15 minutes late for the gold mining. The train ride looked fun but they only took cash - we had none. The Bordelo was off-limits for obvious reasons but I was able to take this really cute picture and make it look like it was the olden days so all was not lost!

We had one of those really great weekends that make my heart happy!

Super Bowl XLVI

2012-02-13T16:03:00.000-08:00

Probably being a Dad of 2 girls your would think your chances of getting to enjoy a Football Game would start to diminish. But think again.

Football happens to be a great time for:

1 - Wearing Cute Clothing. There are shirts designed just for the event and you better believe we each had one (some with coordinating hair accessories).

2- Dressing up your American Girl doll. There is no better reason to create a customized tee for your sweet doll and have her wear her sneakers that have been hiding in the back of the closet for so long.

3 - Party, party, party. Every girl loves a good party and especially one with a THEME! Banners were sewn, napkins and plates matched and the food was delicious.

4 - Cheering. You will never find better cheerleaders for you team then the girls in your life. We wanted to the Giants to win so bad. We talked trash and cheered louder then all of NY... just for you.

All in all, I would say if you were a Dad of girls, you are the lucky one. Your love of Football just moved to a whole other level!!

Way to go Giants.

Companions

2012-02-01T09:41:00.000-08:00

At some point I realize that it is going to be uncool to hang out with your Mom. But this past weekend I really wanted some buddies. I got the girls and I tickets to see With Two Wings at the Tempe Center for the Arts. The story was about overprotective parents who didn't want their child to get hurt experiencing the real world. Well duh?

You give birth to these 2 little angels and love on them and then you are just supposed to let them grow up? Seriously? What cruel person came up with that plan?

We had a good time. The day before I pulled them around a quilt show, we ate overpriced hot dogs from a stand and sang loud in the car. I will be thinking up more fun ways to disguise my hovering, overprotective instincts. I plan on getting so good that they won't even know they are hanging out with me. They will be begging for more Mom and me time!!!

Lost a Toof!

2012-01-22T10:57:00.000-08:00

Carissa Lost Her First Toof!! For some reason I have become the official tooth-puller in the family. Which is really odd because I get queasy just knowing someone is feeling queasy. The only thing I can attribute it to is the fact that I have smaller fingers then Dad.

This particular tooth was kind of tricky. From the outside it appeared to be just hanging there. I kept thinking it was just going to plop right out. But when I got ahold of the thing it was a different story. The tooth was a bleeder - it held on for life and (cringing as I write this) I could feel the gums ripping away. UGH!! She was brave though (as usual - didn't cry). Sometimes I think that is just not normal not to cry when there is pain... kids.

This week also marked my first ever experience as a "Cheer" mom. Hmmm. Not quite how I envisioned the path for my daughters but - who am I to judge? They worked there tails off for four hours during the week learning high kicks and dance moves. I was impressed at how much they learned. Mostly I was impressed that they can walk into a group of 50 girls and be part of something they don't know anything about. Then have the guts to get out and perform in front of a crowd at a High School Basketball game.

Where did they get there their confidence?

"But blessed is {the Girl} that trusts in the Lord and have made the Lord {her} hope and confidence." ~Jeremiah 17:7

It has been a wonderful week. I was able to sew a mini table runner and keep up with my work. I feel accomplished :)

Twenty 12

2012-01-11T21:38:00.000-08:00

We rang in the New Year in Flagstaff after a day of playing in the snow and swimming in the 'coozi. I must say, it is pretty sweet just hanging out with my little family. I would pick these guys over anybody else, any day.

Oh the RESOLUTIONS!! On December 30th I had a list a mile long of things I wanted to accomplish, change and embrace in this New Year. I am a girl who loves a goal. But wouldn't you know it? On January 1st I couldn't remember a single one?

For Christmas I got a Piano (well a 61-key keyboard). I used to play when I was younger and I have visions of learning again and just sitting down and making beautiful sound come out.

Except for I am really not sure, when exactly, I am supposed to accomplish this moment? It feels weird to just drop the girls off at school, come home, drop my purse and start hammering the keys. Do I wait until 11am after I finish that load of laundry and the house is really quiet? I can't do it when everyone is here running up and down the stairs asking me if they can eat another string cheese. I have considered playing at night and turning the volume down really low... But anyways, for now, it sits, staring at me like a dare.

So onto Twenty-12. The year is in full swing. Back into Dance Classes and memorizing Multiplication facts (Audrey not me), saving money and menu planning. Maybe I will write a little more this year. You know, like I used to.

I liked that. It was good for me.

Christmas Day 2011

2012-01-02T11:41:00.000-08:00

I can not just pack up everything that is Christmas and not post about the day. Because the day was wonderful. The girls woke up and were so excited. I don't think there is a better feeling when you can do that right. Cinnamon rolls from Grandma, a warm cup of coffee on hand, and great anticipation.

The afternoon was spent in the warm Arizona sun. Audrey "layed out" and Carissa and Daddy took a relaxing nap in the hammock. We overspent on Christmas dinner but it was a good thing because Kris & Jarett and the girls joined us along with Grandma and Granpa.

The night ended around a campfire, lots of cookies, and good glass of red wine. ~ Perfection!

Joy of December

2011-12-21T13:49:00.000-08:00

This December it took me longer than usual to get into the holiday spirit. I know everyone has the holiday moment meltdowns but I was starting to think that I would just not feel "it" this year. Then a few days ago my fog started to clear and I was able to refocus. I began thinking that the Joy of Christmas was around me in a lot of little moments this year instead of one great big TA-DA moment.

For starters we have not only got to see 1 Christmas performance - but 4! Carissa performed beautifully with all the Kindergartner's.

Audrey performed with the show choir at 2 Holiday events and then again with the 3rd Grade Class at school. She had a solo one night and just rocked her lines!

We typically never go see Santa unless the line is short and we just happen to bump into him. (One time we saw him and Mrs. Claus in their car...). This year we lucked out and the girls even got to take a picture.

And, as I was going about not finding the Christmas Joy this little lady (we named her Candy Cane Jane) showed up and has been doing mischievous things daily. Two days ago we found her on top of the fridge with the food coloring and she had dyed our milk green! I owe her a big thanks for continuing to help keep the magic of Christmas alive in our home.

No holiday season is complete without the Nutcracker Ballet in this family. Grammy treated us, once again, to the special performance. The girls looked beautiful and were so good. They laughed at the Russian dance and were mesmerized by the Sugar Plum Fairy.

We even arrived in time to listen to one of the dancers read the Nutcracker story before the show.

In addition to all that we have been reading from our Advent Calendar and studying the bible every night. It is something we have never done before as a family and the girls LOVE it. Last night we learned that Joseph and Mary walked about 80 miles to get to Bethlehem - that is almost from here to Lake Havasu!

It is clear to me now- 4 days until Christmas - that while I was so busy in my fog the Christmas Joy was happening without me. I didn't even have to walk 80 miles to see the miracle - I just needed to look up - it was right here the whole time.

For the Record

2011-12-10T09:58:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving Weekend in Lake Havasu. This was our 3rd year in a row. We camped at Cattail Cove and the weather was so perfect. I wish I had more pictures! Mostly what I can say about it was that it just felt comfortable. The kids felt at home and just played and enjoyed each other. The food was delicious, as usual, and Audrey ate up the Green Bean Casserole. We watched the old movies from the 60's and heard some great stories. Everyone came to our Campsite on Friday. Matt, Suzanne, and Lola even camped for one night this year. It was so fun to have them there. Here are some pictures...for the record.

Nothing better than a squeeze from Grandpa!!

Grandma & Grandpa

Hanging out in the Backyard Playhouse

10 years

2011-11-13T10:23:00.001-08:00

November 3rd 2011 - Our Ten Year Anniversary

Ten years ago I married a man that I knew for the minute I saw him would be my husband. I tell the story all the time but the first time he hugged me it was like coming home. It was love and caring, security and adventure all mixed together. It was right.

Woodinville Boutique Wine Tour

Ten year later I can still feel it but it is so much more. It is knowing when to push and knowing when to let up. The feeling of joy when you can make each other laugh or see the other through a hard day.

St. Edward Park Trail

It is sharing memories and moments that only you both know.

Eating great food together and loving that the other one loves exactly the same thing.

Spread from Pike's Place Market

It is just being...together...

Edmonds Marina Park

happily ever after.

Happy Halloween

2011-11-01T16:20:00.000-07:00

Today is November 1st and I can honestly say that I am suffering from a Halloween Hangover. I am so happy that we did so much Halloween..er..ing but I am so glad it is over.

Of course we carved the pumpkins and played with the squishy insides.

This was our happy Jack O'Lantern results. I am particulary proud of the ghosts because it was my first ever carved pumpkin! I might just have to get my own to do next year.

On Halloween I helped spook out Audrey's third grade class. I made slime with the kids and recruited Grammy to help with the cookie decorating. I am so grateful I get to help in the classroom but again, am glad it when it is over. Hmm, I am starting to see a pattern here. Small doses...tiny small doses...

On Halloween Night we invited our family and neighbors over for a potluck and Trick-or-Treating. Justin moved the truck and some spooky kids jumped in the back.

We didn't pick our neighbors but somehow ended up with some great families. There is Wyatt and Wes and Ella and Cole. They all ended the night dancing to Thriller in the dark on the lawn and it was super cute.

One of our neighbors, Rachel, brought over the Eyeballs (Chocolate Covered Donuts). I was super impressed and they were really yummy.

Now we have enough candy until Easter.

Minus the Almond Joy's, which I quickly hid for late night snacking.

Each year just gets better and better. The girls are into everything and it makes my heart happy when they can enjoy all the little things I try and make special.

It's all about the Hair...

2011-10-23T21:49:00.000-07:00

The latest "new thing" is having feathers in your hair. The girls have been talking about it from the summer and we finally had the chance to get them (thanks to Auntie Sara). I have to admit at first I had my doubts but now that the feathers are in they are pretty fun and really maintenance free.

This past week was "Spirit Week" at school. Everyday was a new theme and the girls went all out. The first day was Crazy Hair Day. I learned my lesson early on that just waking up and going to school without brushing your hair is just NOT crazy enough.

No - Audrey needed colored hair spray, spoons, and a mermaid.

Carissa though was not quite sure. She opted for just braids and some color because she said she wanted to look crazy, but NOT nuts!

Another day of the week was decade day. The girls and I had so much fun looking through my old pictures for inspiration for the '80's. We were able to "rat-out" Audrey's hair and she looked, well, like me when I was 8. Carissa went like a '70's chic and I think it suited her great.

This school year has been great so far. The girls are doing excellent, Carissa is starting to read and Audrey received all A's the first semester. They are learning so much - we are so proud!!

Achievements

2011-10-03T14:24:00.000-07:00

I am here to document that you were Student of the Month and figured out how to blow a bubble in the same week...inspiring!

Now that I am 34

2011-09-23T12:08:00.000-07:00

... I know they say age is just a number but I would have to disagree.

Age is a milestone and a journey. It is a story and a path.

When I was 14 it wasn't just a number; it was my second year of being in the "teens". It was working for the first time and having a little independence. It was learning how to have and be a really good friend. It was walking around the mall without my mom.  It was church summer camp and learning God was there.

When I was 24 it wasn't just a number. It was putting on my wedding dress and walking down the aisle. It was becoming a wife and learning how to love a man unconditionally. It was paying my bills on time and buying enough groceries for the week.

Now that I am 34 I can say for sure, age is not just a number. My convictions are stronger and my expectations are higher. I know what I am good at and what I am not. I know what makes my heart ache and what brings me pure joy.

I am happy to have been 14 and 24 and I am grateful for my journey and the choices and chances I have received along the way.  I am proud to be mom and a wife. I am glad to be 34. ~

Just Realizing

2011-08-31T13:50:00.000-07:00

Earlier this week I read a quote from Michel De Montaigne (a very observant French man that lived in the 1500's). He said "The least strained and most natural ways of the soul are the most beautiful."

When I really thought about this I know it to be true but have realized that I am not always making the most natural of choices and I have a hard time determining what it is that will cause me the least strain.

But when I watch these two beautiful girls I am amazed. It is so easy for them to make a natural choice. Do you want sauce on your noodles? No! I don't like the sauce... How about these socks? Gross! They itch my feet...

Are you sure you want to run for Student Council? Why wouldn't I? It will be so much fun.

These answers just roll off the tip of their tongue. They are so intuned with their true self that it is not a strain at all to make the natural choice - and wow is it beautiful to watch!

Congratulations Audrey on Making Student Council!! You really do shine.

Recover an Ironing Board

2011-08-21T11:53:00.000-07:00

Here is how I recovered my Ironing Board:

Selected my fabric. I needed two yards because of the length of my board and I choose a bright cheerful yellow so the task of ironing wouldn't seem so dull. My fabric was on the JoAnn's clearance rack for 2.50/yard.

Selected my wine. I needed a nice crisp white wine because it is still 108 degrees at 7:00 p.m. here so I choose a Pinot Grigio by Kate and Cassie (mostly because I loved the label). The wine was purchased at Target for 8.99.

3. Take a look at your old ironing board cover and realize that might be the reason you never really took to ironing in the first place. Pour yourself a glass a wine and pull the cover off.

4. Grab your seam ripper and rip out the cord.

5. You should end up with a full piece of elastic cording and a "template" for your new cover. You might want to iron the old cover flat (if you are into that sort of thing). It makes it easier to trace.

6. Trace the old cover on the wrong side of your fabric. I used a fancy yellow Crayola marker. You might have a washable fabric pencil. First trace exactly around the whole cover. Then trace an outline of the cover about an inch out from the first line.

7. Cut your fabric using the outer line you traced.

8. Now is the tedious part so take a sip of your wine. You will use your iron (I know!) and fold the edge in a 1/4" first and iron flat. Then fold and pin so the fold is on the first line you drew. This will leave enough room to thread your elastic cord back in.

9. Go to your machine and stitch around the cover leaving a 2" or so gap to thread your cord through. Don't forget to back stitch at the start and finish.

10. Bring your wine and go sit in a comfy chair. Take apart your elastic cord from the little holder. (Very technical - I know.) Thread your cord through the casing and then reattach to the holder the same why you took it apart.

11. Fit your new cover back on your ironing board and hang in a pretty spot.

12. Finish your wine ;)

Linking up to:

First week of School

2011-08-13T12:08:00.001-07:00

If you read my last post you would know I left off waiting for the bus...

Well, it came and dropped off Audrey at the corner I was NOT at... then it proceeded to drive by me with Carissa still on it! Apparently I was standing at the wrong corner AND they won't let your Kinder off the bus unless you are standing there. Justin ended up chasing the bus down and the rest of our week kind of went down hill from there.

The kids came home famished and tired everyday. I tried a new techinque everyday to help ease the transistion but nothing seemed to work. We ended everynight with someone in tears (Audrey or Me) and started every morning with more and more anxiety (Carissa and Me).

Did I mention I had bloodwork on Wednesday and fainted and Justin and I aren't drinking this week? (Who's idea was that?)

By Friday morning I probably had the whole week written on my face and Carissa could feel it. She announced right away that she didn't want to go to school and I just couldn't find it in me to be upbeat anymore. We both ended up crying in the school hallway. UGH!

Thankfully my neighbors walked by and one of them (a sweet angle from God) convinced Carissa to go back into the class and then they told me to go home. Good advice. I was a wreck.

To end the week Audrey was stung by a scorpion. Really? Yes. Here is my advice. Put the number to Posion Control in your phone. You never know when you will need it. She is fine her foot just remains asleep.

My one glass of wine Friday night did me in and I was so thankful for it. Sometimes it is best to just curl up and go to sleep. Carissa asked me this morning if Saturdays are like "Pretend Summers?"

Uhh no, we call this a Weekend - but don't worry - they are just as fun. Phew TGIS.

School Year is Here

2011-08-08T12:13:00.000-07:00

It is so quiet here.

I have finished all my work.

I ate lunch.

Only 3 more hours until the bus comes.

You should have seen me this morning. I was so brave - Justin surprised us and came home so we could take the girls together. We dropped Audge off first to 3rd grade. She was all smiles taking her new room in. I just know she is going to love it.

Kissa was next. It was kind of hectic and crazy in her room (with 30 students and their parents!) She seemed a little overwhelmed. The teacher said we had to leave in 5 minutes. So we hugged and chatted then all of a sudden she said we had to go in 1 minute. My baby held back the tears so I just gave her one last squeeze and left.
Thankfully I could spy on her through the window. She looked so little but actually really big all at the same time.

I wish I could go there right now and check on her again. I could just spy on her through the window again... But Justin said she will be fine. He said to think of all the times they bugged me. But that just makes me really sad.

Oh good. Now there is only 2 hours and 45 minutes left.

So Long Summer

2011-08-05T12:07:00.000-07:00

Just in 3 short days school will be back in session. I had high hopes for this summer and for some wierd reason I feel like it didn't go exactly as I had envisioned. Instead I got something far better - something not even I could have planned.

We were blessed with Justin getting a little 2 week job in Flagstaff - which happens to be one of the coolest place you can be in Arizona. The girls and I were able to join him and stay at the KOA.
Audrey snapped some shots while we were there on her new camera. We rode bikes and hiked. We breathed in the fresh air and just had a great time.

The rest of July the girls kept me busy. We had a neighborhood "Summer Bash" and lucked out because Lola was able to be there. We had the chance to spend a great Saturday with Gramps and Gram where I learned about the fine art of frying pork chops and family dynamics all at the same time. While I had to spend more hours working on the computer than I planned I was enjoying the soundtrack of my girls playing, playing, and playing some more. Justin and I were even able to sneak out for a few date nights.

This summer the girls really were each others "built-in" best friends. While I can't say it was all roses, for the most part they were inseperable and didn't mind it. I can see them changing everyday and I know that it is time, once again, for me to follow suit.

I can not put in words how thankful I am for my life. For the opportunity I have had to stay home with my sweet daughters for the last 6 years. On Monday, I plan on putting on my brave face, pulling up my big-girl panties, manning up... I can do this. I can drop off my baby to Kindergarten and know that if I am not there to put the straw in her juice box someone else will. Heck, maybe she will even be able to do "myself".

I will let you know how it goes...

Great Eight!!

2011-07-06T12:36:00.001-07:00

Dear Audrey,

I feel like I just wrote you a letter a few days ago when you turned 7 and now here you are 8 years old!! You will be starting 3rd grade soon which is just so crazy to me. If I close my eyes I can picture you the very first time they put you in my arms. When you smile I can still see the same look in your eyes when you were 3 months old. It is so wonderful to be your mommy!!

Thank you for taking such good care of your sister. She loves you very much and looks up to you. I hope you continue to look in the mirror and know the girl staring back at you is so special. She is beautiful and loving and has a heart for just belting out a song.

Remember to continue to be a cheerful giver and a friend who listens. If you keep laughing and singing your way through life I know you will make be able to accomplish anything.

I Love you,
Mom

Texas in June

2011-06-23T15:38:00.001-07:00

The cousins live in Georgia and we live in Arizona so we thought we were pretty smart when we decided to hop in the car and meet in the middle. San Antonio, TX, home of the Alamo, Riverwalk, keep away from rattlesnake signs, and a very very hot sun. This would mark our 3rd annual summer trip.

It didn't take the kids long this year to remember each other and they started hanging out right away. Brynn & Carissa were super cute to watch together.

Our first outing was Sea World and we got there when the gates opened and left at 9:30 when the gates closed. One of the highlights of the park was the all you can eat food wristband we bought everyone. They thought it was so cool they could go into any restaurant and get however much they wanted, whenever they wanted. Here they are on the side of the dolphin pool. The pool actually has dolphins in the water but they were more interested in hanging over the edge - go figure.

We learned this trip that the only dare-devils are Justin, Audrey, and Aunt Cecelia. They thought it would actually be fun to go on this roller coaster ride called Steel Eel. The sane people just watched.

After the ride Audrey said it was super scary... I like this picture with Byrnn looking up contemplating the ride. I have a feeling when she is tall enough she will join them.

The Rio Loco ride was actually the best. The Dad's took the kids first and rumor has it the kids were bummed when they had to come back and go with the Moms. But we proved them wrong. The line was so short we took a short cut and rode the ride 2 more times - making us the cooler parents (at least for a few minutes anyways!).

SeaWorld was really fun and the shows (Azul and Shamu Rocks) were really neat. There was a terrifying few moments when we lost Brynn and Carissa. They decided they could ride the Shamu Express without any parents and the crazy thing was the teenagers running the rides would have let them! But we ended Day 1 on a good note!

Day Two brought us to the heart of Texas - San Antonio Riverwalk. Did I mention Texas in June is Hot? This was not my best day. I could post more pictures and dwell on how HOT it was, how Justin told all the kids to get in the fountain (and they had tennis shoes on!), how we watched the 4D Skies Over Texas movie and every kid cried, or how went to the top of the Tower of America and it made me nauseous. But instead I will show you highlight of the day - Icees in huge Vegas style cups in the shade - ahhh.

Day 3 was the Natural Caverns. Underground and cooler then above. I really love these places especially when they start saying things like "this straw formation was formed 6,000,000,000 years ago, all right?" (Our 15-year old tour guide said all right - ALOT!). That is a large number and my eyes start to glaze over because I just can't comprehend it. I think Audrey's did too because once our guide said we couldn't touch anything - that is all she thought about.

It was relaxing and enjoyable and a great way to spend part of our last day. I will have to just mention here that on the way to the caverns I squished an ant in the car. I thought it was kind of weird but let it go. A few minutes later I squished another ant and happened to investigate a little further. Come to find out our whole car was infested with ants. It is crazy and annoying to watch a million ants forage for every goldfish and graham cracker crumb in your car. Glad to report a Wal-mart was near by (imagine that?) and Justin sprayed enough ant killer to keep our car pest free for the next 18 years.

After saying our tearful good-bye to the cousins we headed to Padre Island, TX for some beach time. On the second day there we decided to explore a dock that had a posting for a bird lookout. The parking lot looked into a fenced yard marked Alligator Habitat. I casually commented that I wouldn't want to enter and was glad there was a fence.

Off we went down the dock passing a large marshy area. My mind was telling me that it looked a lot like a place an alligator would love to live. Wouldn't you know it but the alligators did not stay behind the fence! They did live there. And we had the lovely privilege of walking right over one... How Does That Happen?

We didn't stay long.

The rest of the time was spent lounging on the beach. Watching the girls when they knew we were looking...

And when they didn't....

On the last day we ended up driving from Padre Island, TX to Buckeye, AZ in one day. It was a 17 hour drive and we were ready to be home. At the end of crazy trips like this I wonder why we do it? But, I think Carissa summed it up well in the sand...

Too much social media!!

2011-06-10T10:58:00.001-07:00

Wow - I am really lagging on this blog posting thing!! The truth is I just can't keep up. Between Facebook and texting and blogging I just can't choose. There are pictures on my camera phone and pictures on my camera. I can post a picture here but can't get if off there. Too many updates and status changes and posts. There is digital scrapbooking vs blogging and it is just getting to be too much!!

I want to do what will matter most. I want to preserve memories but not be so caught up in tracking the memories I am not making any. The girls just had a Dance Recital and they did excellent. Audrey was in a Hip Hop number and she was straight gangsta' the whole day. Carissa did a tap routine to the Pinocchio song "Got No Strings".

The minute my child started to dance I attempted to film. Ha! Who can do that? I gave up in about 3 seconds because I was missing it!! I opted for the live show once instead of the playback forever.

Maybe I will look back in fifteen years and wish I did a better job of documenting each moment. **I really do want to tell them the whole story and not miss a detail.** But I am realizing I can only do so much. Some events will just have to be left up to the storytellers memory...

Five! 5! Five!

2011-05-26T16:36:00.000-07:00

CARISSA GRACE IS 5!

Dear Carissa,

When I look at you today I no longer see a baby. I see a little girl who has begun to take shape. You are amazingly beautiful and smart. You have a this wacky sense of humor that can throw a whole crowd for a loop. I know you see so much and feel it deeply. I know you love your family with all of your being. You are content to steal Dad's bible and find a quite corner to read stories about Jesus to your bite but also just as happy to go wherever Audrey has suggested. You are a perfect little sister.

This year I know you will stretch out past your usual limits. You will learn to read and a whole new world will open up for you. You will notice I am missing you and you will fight leaving, even though you kind of really want to go. I will let you... because that is what Mommies do.

In the meantime, I will suck in every last ounce of that baby smell that you sometimes get right when I am putting you to bed. I will let you keep climbing right onto my lap when you stub your toe. I will savor each day of your 5th year.

Happy Birthday ~I Love You, Mom

Talent Show

2011-05-23T08:09:00.000-07:00

When Audrey came to me and said she wanted to sing in the talent show, in front of the whole school, without any music, to her made up version of a song... well, I felt like I had to protect her somehow. From what? Now, I am not so sure.

As a Mom I just don't want her to ever feel failure or embarrassment. I don't want her to suffer or have her heart ache. But I realize now that is just silly; that my hardest moments have created a stronger me. So I stopped discouraging her. I let go and let her try out at the audition. When she got the notice that she had made the Talent Show I listened to her sing the song 1,000 different times 1,000 different ways. I took her to buy a cute new shirt and I did her hair in the morning. I watched her little self sit and wait until the second to the last act. And after one whole hour and 15 agonizing minutes she finally performed... and she was beautiful and she was amazing.

Volcano Science Experiment

2011-05-18T10:59:00.000-07:00

Making a homemade clay for her volcano...

Being way to silly...

Who said Science was boring??!?

Ingredients :

Warm Water, Dishsoap, Food Coloring, Baking Soda, and Vinegar

Weekend at White Spar

2011-05-04T08:55:00.000-07:00

It is easily forgotten but we have a travel trailer that we pay for every month but doesn't get nearly enough use. Last weekend I was bent on making sure we went somewhere in the trailer. Typical of us, we didn't decide where we were going until about 2:30 Friday, so I threw a few things together and convinced Justin we didn't even need to bring the trailer to our house - we had everything we needed... Let's just load up and go...

The girls didn't seem to notice but we forgot TONS! First off we left without any water in our tanks assuming we could get some up in Prescott. After driving around until 9:00 at night (not fun) we gave up and pulled into the last camp spot available with no water. In the dark. Backing in... ugh!
First thing in the morning the girls got right to work building fairy houses. They collected treasurers and climbed and built.

They laughed and dug in the dirt. They found sticks that were magical and rocks with a story.

While I spent Saturday night in the trailer with a sinus infection Audrey braved the cold night air wearing Dad's jacket because I forgot to pack hers. I don't think she noticed as she had made a great new best friend at the campsite right next door.

We woke up to a morning with no spoons for cereal but a visit from the tooth fairy instead. A good S'more will loosen a tooth right up!

We ended the weekend learning that being spontaneous doesn't always equal relaxing and fun. A couple extra minutes to plan out our trip would have probably saved us a few hours of heartache.

Happy to report - the girls noticed nothing and we have made yet another camping memory :)

To the Extreme

2011-04-25T07:39:00.001-07:00

April has been a complete month of Extremes. First off, we started off with snow! Not at our house but a short 2 hours away to visit Aunt Sherrie and Uncle David in Bagdad, AZ. The site of snow on cacti should have been my first gentle reminder that God is at work in all things.
A snow creature was built - not quite to the standards of our Washington Sally but we loved her with all we had!

Instead of worrying about having the right shoes, coats, and snow attire the girls dug right in with what we could pull together that morning. I have to say I was so happy with that. Maybe they appreciated the fact that the snow was fleeting and if they didn't take advantage of it - it would soon be gone?

And gone it was!! The following week was in the 90's and spring had officially sprung! Our family (ahem... the adult portion) has a hard time dealing with this transition. We tend to fight the impending heat with all we have. Forgetting that it is larger than us. Forgetting that we still have not been promoted to being in charge.

So I have decided to start taking the lead from little ones. Pushing ahead at full speed. Seeking out what might be hiding in the cracks.

This month I am learning from them. Audrey is trying out for a talent show at school because, "my dream is to sing in front of millions of people!". Her confidence and courage astound me! Carissa has a horrible infection in her foot and has been taking her glue-like medicine like a pro. "It helps if you just plug your nose!". It really just doesn't surprise me anymore that this Easter I have been humbled once again. I have been placed back in front of the cross. And it is a glorious, safe, and peaceful place to be!

Happy Easter!

Goals

2011-04-08T07:48:00.000-07:00

I was asked the other day what my goals are for 2011. Hmmm... all that came to mind was to make sure we had milk for cereal in the morning and to switch the laundry before I went to bed. So much of my life, up until lately, has been about achieving goals.

It starts right when you are born with eating, crawling, walking, talking. Then there is grade school where the world just opens up and everyday life brings a new challenge, a new goal. All those sight words turn into sentences and counting to 30 turns into adding up your allowance.

Dare we forget the teenage years? The goals seem to lean on the emotional side like getting the cutest boy ever to notice you - so goal-worthy! How about making the team, joining a club, getting a part-time job, feeling accepted, saying No. Always moving forward (sometime scared) but wanting to see what tomorrow holds.

My 20's couldn't have been more goal-driven. There was graduating from college, internships, becoming self-sufficient, buying a car, buying a house...All tangible, all foreseeable, all met.

Then I feel in love and my goals become our goals. "Our Plan" was what we loved to call it. We would dream it and re-dream it and everytime we did it was new and exciting. We worked hard to make it all come true, too. Our family and our home is more than "Our Plans" ever could have imagined.

My day now consists of tons of small tasks, little immediate goals like getting through the grocery store without anyone whining, making it a whole week on one tank of gas, cooking healthy meals and limiting screen time to 1 hour a day. All simple things that I know add up to one big necessary purpose. To raise two beautiful, caring, intelligent girls.

So I asked myself - is that my goal?

Have I climbed through all those years of achievements and now I am here? Standing on top of my 33 years I look behind and I can see far. I cringe at some of the images and laugh with sheer joy at others. But when I look the other way, when I look ahead, I just see them.

Standing in front of me.

My future milestones are only but significant markings in their lives. Kindergarten, Graduations, Birthdays, friendships, dances, weddings.

What would it be like to have another big goal? What would it even be? Why did I stop making goals? I should get a goal.

Fun Ball

2011-04-06T11:47:00.000-07:00

What is it you ask?

It is a giant Fun Ball.

You climb inside and then yell at the top of your lungs for someone to push you. It fits two comfortably.

Or one Dad tightly. Carissa says it's like you are a Human Hamster.

The Fun Ball.

Me & Mom

2011-03-29T14:10:00.000-07:00

I am thinking this little baker will be teaching me a thing or two in a couple years about the kitchen. She measured, stirred, and tasted our creation. This is the best, Mom.

Yummy Peanut Butter Cookies. Made by Me & Mom!

So long Nanna

2011-03-21T09:23:00.000-07:00

Girls, I want to tell you that where you come from is not just a big family. But a place where people you don't know, know you. A soft place to land to feel like yourself. To not only learn about history but to realize you are a part of it.

To recognize the similarities and share in the sameness.

You are part of something that started a long time ago with two people. Jack and Sadie and although you will never know them (I can't even say that I really did). You will know of the love they had.

Because that is something that does not die.

I am sure of it.

In Memory Of Santina Veronica Lupo

May 25, 1923 ~ March 6, 2011

Spring Break - Girls Only!

2011-03-21T08:22:00.000-07:00

I must admit the thought of 5-day trip to California without Justin made me a little apprehensive. Which made me wonder - what is wrong with me? I realized I had never went anywhere for any length of time without my hubby since I have been married. The idea was foreign to me. Who would carry the luggage, order at the drive-through, or swim with the girls? Then I remembered who I was going with - Grammy...

So off we went...

Our, err, first stop - this retro hotel in Burbank called the Safari Inn. Not entirely planned but it worked out all the same. It turned out I could turn down swimming in the outdoor heated pool and Grammy would fill the shoes of Justin. A sacrifice she made for the team that I will soon not forget!

The real fun began the next day at the American Girl Doll store located at The Grove in L.A. Would you believe we spent more than 3 hours in that store? The dolls got their hair done, outfits were chosen, and Audrey's doll even got her ears pierced. We dined at the Cafe with the dolls at our table and pink lemonade. Oh so special!!

But there was more fun ahead. With a quick location change to Anaheim our next stop was - DISNEYLAND!! The girls learned quickly the meaning of long lines, patience, and the labor laws of California. A true Princess must receive 15 minute breaks for every hour they stand and smile...

The wait was well worth it. We learned Rapunzel had 70 feet of hair and she has never been to Arizona. We told her she should visit.

After the 2.5 hour wait we determined that maybe it wasn't worth it to get a picture and autograph with a princess. That was until we realized Grammy had positioned us right where the princesses would be. We shotgunned through three lines to meet 3 princesses in 30 minutes. Meet Aurora - Hello...

Meet Cinderella... Hi...

We determined that our family members would meet the height requirements to be a princess by the time they were 12. Hello Snow White...

The pressure of the meet and greet almost put me over the edge. But we pressed on. Riding Big Thunder, visiting Minnie's House through the exit (shh!!), talking with Crush, and bumper cars. Audrey was able to experience her first big Roller Coaster with Aunt Sherry (who I think might live in Disneyland part time).

It was an excellent trip. The girls behaved so well. I learned that Audrey loves a good thrill, Carissa is happy if she is next to me, low-flying birds are attracted to my head, and Grammy will do just about anything to meet a princess. My kids are not easily impressed by all the Disney hype but they love Hotels and I can survive a week without Justin.

Thank You for the Trip Grammy!!

A Day at the Museum

2011-03-02T13:15:00.001-08:00

My favorite kind of outing is usually spontaneous and adventurous. A random call from Grandma for a trip to the Phoenix Children's Museum fit the bill perfectly!

There hasn't been a Children's Museum I have been too that hasn't just awed me. The Phoenix Museum did not disappoint! Check out this structure. The girls explored the whole thing and had a blast. We left this area thinking it couldn't get any better...

Then we found the "Fort Room". Audrey and Carissa were hiding from me. If it wasn't for one little clue I might have just given up looking for them.

On to the Noodle Forest. This might have been their favorite part. A room full of hanging noodles. I went through it and felt like Nemo's Dad swimming through the jellyfish.

Very Cool!

Thanks Grandma for such a great afternoon!

Posed picture credited to bribe of ice cream only if everyone smiled. *Works every time*

Chocolate = Love

2011-02-17T16:53:00.000-08:00

As I am writing this I am licking the melted chocolate on my finger. I know, disgusting. What is wrong with me? Every since Monday when our home had a Valentine's Chocolate invasion by way of my sweet husband and the Girl Scout delivering 7 boxes (yikes- what was I thinking?) of cookies, I have been scooping up anything brown and putting it in my mouth.

It is justified, I think, because it was gift. A gift of love. Chocolate just IS love. And I think it might be true... it can be better then... any who...

Speaking of love. Remember when Justin made the bunk bed for Audrey's doll? Well it wouldn't fit in our Pod when we moved back to AZ so Daddy and I have been living with large amounts of guilt. Now that guilt has been set free because we have made two more beds. Ahhh...

And not just beds. Beds with an attached desk.

Guess who had the most fun? (Once a girl, always a girl!)

We have been taking advantage of the great weather. Basking in the sun and just being together. It feels good (and it's even better with a Thin Mint ;)

Oh and I have been meaning to write the latest. Carissa told me she is not afraid of anything. Not even the common house cat.

Now that is a relief!

Sweater Pillows

2011-02-04T13:12:00.001-08:00

This was Tuesday. I had the privilege of being a chaperon for the 2nd Grade class trip to see "Go Dog Go" the musical at the Tempe Center for the Arts. Have you read the book? If you have it, go and get it and read it to your child tonight. But don't just read it... really read it. (Feel free to sing part of it.) Now imagine that book in an 82 minute performance...
Yup - you get the picture. So, Tuesday was sunny and I could barely get Audrey to keep her sweatshirt on. Now it is Friday and we will be lucky to see 50 degrees today. I am not complaining. Except for one tiny detail that I HAVE NOTHING TO WEAR!!

I tried on all 3 sweaters I owned and decided I hated them all. So last night I chopped them up and made them into these really cute pillows.

I think they make way better pillows then sweaters. The green one was my least favorite sweater. OH SO TIGHT. OH SO ITCHY. But as a pillow...it doesn't get better :)

I followed this great tutorial at Make it and Love it. Hmm what can I cut up next?

January

2011-01-26T08:06:00.000-08:00

Looking out my window this crisp January morning I am reminded, once again, that all things can be new. I know it is never to late to make something better or to try again. This January I allowed myself to be so busy planning for tomorrow that I forgot to enjoy today. I have been worrying about time and how fast things happen and the what if's. At times I think I forgot to smile or to stop and laugh.

I was reading through my journal and almost laughed at loud. My prayers from long ago seem to be the same ones I still pray today. Have I not learned anything? Am I so much like my kids who I constantly nag? Is God always having to "remind me?"

I think I know how he feels.

Well, today I am going to accept that just as the leaves have fallen off the trees there are new ones growing in. Time will continue to go on and there is nothing I can do to stop it.

But I can be in the day. I can stop missing what is going on right in front of me. I can relish in the joy of the moment ~ without being reminded!!

A Season of Family

2010-12-31T14:11:00.000-08:00

This holiday season was filled with so much family. Our lives are abundantly filled with people who love and care for us. We don't want each other to fail, to feel pain, or to need. We love to make each other laugh and push until there is progress. I am beginning to understand that Family is a miracle in and of itself - I am blessed to be able to witness it.

Homemade Christmas

2010-12-22T22:51:00.001-08:00

As I sit here approaching Midnight on December 22, I begin getting a vision of my girls all grown up and reminiscing about their mother. Thinking back to when the crazy old lady used to make Christmas presents. HA!! Who would do such a thing? Who would spend 3 hours making "15-minute" pajama pants and matching sleep masks on December 22nd??

Why? Why? Why?

The joke would be on them though - because I would pull out these pictures. I'd tell them about the time they insisted on making stockings for their dolls.

How they lovingly pushed and pulled the needle through the fabric - cursing in their 4 & 7 year old way when the thread came out...

Then we all would be reminded that it is not really about the end product (right? RIGHT!) It is just about the love we put into making it. Those peaceful moments when we are concentrating on who the gift is for and the reasons we love them.

My grown-up girls would then stop laughing at me and BEG me to make "15-minute" pajama pants for Christmas again!!! But, I would say no... because what crazy lady makes Christmas presents?

Polar Express

2010-12-16T21:09:00.001-08:00

Have you read the book? Can you still hear the bell?
We made the decision to join everyone at the tradional "Polar Express" train ride in Williams, AZ. Donning matching P.J.'s and all - we had no regrets!

I just love these pictures of the cousins - they care about each other so much and it is so neat to see.

This is Grandma's idea of a good time... 8:00 at night with 6 kids under 7 waiting for a train!! What is Christmas for if you can't make your Grammy happy? (At least once every few years!)

Santa made a special stop and told Audrey - the only thing he wasn't able to bring on Christmas is a new front tooth...that was the tooth fairies job! She thought that was pretty dang funny...

It was a really loud, err fun trip and if I didn't hear the bells before I certaintly can now :)

Christmas Tree 2010

2010-12-04T15:46:00.001-08:00

We got our Christmas stuff out and Carissa got in...

Everybody must have touched each ornament 10 times and asked "where did we get this one?" I think that is just a Mom's job to know those things. It is too bad I have early onset Alzheimer's and can't remember half of them. On the plus side my OCD was turned way down because I resisted the urge to have everyone back away so I could decorate alone. The memories of trimming the tree should be sweet ones, right?

I think it turned out lovely...

In the spirit of the season our family is donating some items Monday night to local families in need. I have been bugging the girls about it a lot and having them think of things they don't use anymore and want to give. Today I was completly taken off guard.

Audrey asked a question I couldn't answer (and that just might be a first) "Mom, why isn't Santa going to those kid's houses?"

ummmmmm....

That is like asking me why some people get cancer or little kids are abused.

What do you say? So I said what I thought was the best answer and I hope she believed me.

"Santa asked Daddy and I if we wouldn't mind helping him, help these families."

Dang it if I almost believe myself...

Full of Thanksgiving

2010-12-01T08:51:00.001-08:00

I can not remember the last time I had such a good Thanksgiving. This year we decided to camp at Cattail Cove State Park and it was just the right mix of spending time with family and just relaxing at the campsite.

The whole time I felt like I took sooo many pictures, then of course, I get home and feel like I have NONE!! Here are a few for the memory books...

Carissa and Katie - such beautiful girls - hit if off in minutes and really enjoyed each other's company.

This is the whole gang (minus Justin taking the pic) under the London Bridge, which I must admit, I totally take for granted. It was so pretty under the bridge and I will never forget just walking around with my Grandma. Despite that fact that she has had a crazy hard year her eyes were just taking in the moment watching the kids play and loving the lights.

It is the first time in a while she has looked at peace with the moment. It is truly amazing watching how her life has evolved and changed. I am only seeing it as a granddaughter but what a story. What an amazing story.

On Saturday the water was so peaceful. Justin took Carissa and I out on the lake and in our canoe. Never thought I would just ride around in a canoe... but it's nice. Especially when you can just sit back and eat trail mix. My kind of speed :)

We came home, unloaded the trailer and started the week off going to Monday Night Football. Here is the view from our seats. It was super fun ~ especially watching the 49ers huddle...dang that have that down.

There never seems to be a dull moment in our life and now here comes December.

So much to do - lose 10 pounds, make cookies but don't eat them, buy gifts, remain centered on Christ, decorate to the nines, throw together some parties, crafts and more crafts, send out cards, go see lights, say nice things (Santa is watching) don't forget to work, ..... ahhhh. 25 more day... ready, set, go!

Daddy's Birthday

2010-11-19T11:33:00.000-08:00

Yikes we are getting up there - 33!! The girls don't miss a chance to remind us that we "lived in the olden days" or that we are getting wrinkles. Even though I still think I have a chance at passing for a young, cool, hip girl they put me right back in my place. Reality check - I am a mom and no matter how bad I don't want to wear "mom" jeans, say those uncool comments, or have that tired worn out look - I know I do. It happened to me. I guess as parents, we have arrived.

It was Justin's birthday yesterday and the girls were so excited. They both picked out gifts for him (CD, boy magazine, and a lantern). We decorated the kitchen and made brownies. They wrapped the gifts and fought over whose present he would open first. Chaos at it's best...

They are so in tuned to what he likes I think it is just a testament to how much they adore him. I remember when they were babies crying in my arms and he would swoop them up and instantly the crying would stop. He would put them up high on his broad shoulders and do that little bounce-pat thing. Ohh, the jealousy would eat me up. But now, just picturing it brings tears to my eyes. Right then and there he was a creating a bond with them and it gets stronger every year.

Here's to being 33 love. Happy Birthday!

9 Years

2010-11-08T13:19:00.001-08:00

Remember this? It was out backyard in August when we first started landscaping. (Lesson learned - not good to start a landscaping project during the hottest month of the year.) The ground was hard to work with and I wasn't sure how it would end up. Our goal was to make it feel as lush as possible - you know bring a little Pacific Northwest to the Arizona desert (don't ask to see our water bill!!) I am happy to say we are so pleased with the results. We have our splash pad area which is so great for the kids. I can just ship them outside and I know they won't drown. We hope to build off of the bench a little more and can't wait to see the trees grow and start shading some of the area.

On the other side of the yard are plants and trees, including 3 fruit trees. By next summer I should have so many limes we won't be able to drink enough Corona's...

I also now have these lovely Arizona Roses. A gift from Justin for our 9th anniversary. To me Roses represent how things that look so tough on the outside can turn out to be the most beautiful. I am proud to say that we have been married 9 years. It takes hard work and dedication to keep a loving marriage thriving and I am so happy and grateful to be a wife to my husband.

He makes my heart happy ~ this is the quilt I made him. Our gifts to each other were supposed to cost $9. With a little help from my girlfriend, Goodwill, and a Linen Outlet I was able to do it. Hard to make a manly quilt...

Oh, and just because we finished landscaping doesn't mean we have stopped construction. This is the shed/playhouse/outhouse/man cave/craft shop going in on the side of the house...

Seriously, never a dull moment.

Flashback

2010-11-03T06:54:00.000-07:00

A pink punk pirate, My little Pony, and Edward (HA) all came out on Halloween. They knew the drill. Walk fast, ring bell, say thanks, and move out. Now mommy has candy.

It is too cool when one of your kids wants the evil pumpkin. It just proves they are realizing the difference between real and make-believe.
It doesn't hurt to have a sweet, nice, pumpkin hanging around either, though.

Speaking of jack o'lantern's... I must toot my own horn and mention these darling ladies. All carved up for the Preschool Halloween Party. Considering how everything I make turns to crap, I was pretty impressed with myself.

Can you believe before all that there was another weekend I forgot to mention? My parents came into town to take the girls out for a night at a hotel. (Man, they are so spoiled!!) First we joined them at the Phoenix Botanical Gardens just in time for the Mariposa Monarch exhibit.

Along the lines of cooking I also stink at taking pictures but, again, I must say this is pretty dang impressive! Isn't he beautiful? (There is a way to tell, I found out.)

Every child under 12 got to take home a pumpkin. My Dad picked out a good one...

It was a little toasty and the lines were a little long. But we persevered and were all smiles.

And, to end the post, with the beginning. The Guy Family's first ever Relay for Life team. A great learning experience for Audrey who yelled out to people "Pick-A-Pop" for 4 straight hours. She was determined to get people to play our game and make money for the cause.

She is noticing that it isn't just us in this world. There are many, many, more. Some hurting, some healing, some that give, and some that take. Some that it might be OK to just ignore!

So there it is - a flashback of the last two weeks - Whew.

Seasonal Blocks

2010-10-18T11:26:00.000-07:00

This month our CraftyOwls night had to have been my favorite by far. Kelly and I have been looking at so many wooden block crafts but couldn't decide on what holiday we wanted to make one for. So, being the clever (insane) crafters we are, we decided to do every season.

Our blocks are 1.5" x 1.5" so they are small enough to be displayed on shelf but big enough for all to admire.

For some of the months I distressed the paper and edges to give it that "not-so-perfect" look. You could take it one step farther and use Distress ink or paint.
We cut out the vinyl letters using Kelly's Cricut (600 letters wasn't so bad, right?). We choose to switch up the fonts depending on the month for extra cuteness...
I think Merry Christmas is my favorite.

There are 15 blocks in all. So you can stack 'em anyway you like.

We had such a great time with this craft and made over 35 kits for our Crafty Owl friends.

If you are interested in making one yourself click here for the instructions or if you aren't into cutting up 15 wooden blocks visit our CraftyOwls site to purchase a kit :)

Linked to these awesome sites:

On my Mirror

2010-10-15T11:56:00.000-07:00

~My cup runneth over ~

Tension

2010-10-04T16:07:00.000-07:00

It is Monday so that might explain it, but I have to admit I am so CRANKY today. It didn't help that I was verbally abused by a 7 year-old this morning. I tried to remain calm during the attack and since I didn't retaliate with physical abuse I think I did really well. Instead, I cleverly selected "grounded to room" as the punishment.

And wouldn't you just know it? The girl came home from school happy as a lark to spend the whole afternoon in her room. DUH, that is so not punishment. She doesn't have to deal with her sister or her mother. She gets complete isolation and it is bliss.

By now, the sky has darkened (finally) and it is raining (Amen). The tension is fading away and I have made a mental note to make the next punishment "wait on mother hand and foot".

Aghh - it is hard to run this ship.

Just Life

2010-10-02T15:24:00.000-07:00

I just can't seem to remember to stop and write about Everyday Things. I used to be so good about it. I have a zillion pictures that I never even share and thoughts that I forget to tell. How am I going to remember all this? Like my impromtu date with my husband last night to see Rascal Flatts - Center Stage 5th row back. The seats were so good I could see the sparkle on the cowboy boots.

They played this song "Everyday Love" which is so old but also reminds me so much of our marriage. LOVED IT!!

This last week we had a great surprise and got to have Lola over. It was so fun just to have the girls play together and laugh. They will probably hate me for this picture when they get older...that's what they get for being goofy!

I finished this quilt for my living room. I used the Brick Path Quilt Pattern that is free from Amy Butler and the Blush by Basic Grey for Moda Fabric Line. It came out nice and light. Perfect for Arizona Winter Nights... which are right around the corner... right? RIGHT?
And finally, this was my last project. Thinking I would make a "faux" roman shade for my office window and thinking it would be so "quick" to just whip up. I have decided I should really stop thinking. It took FOREVER but it is done and I can't decide if I like it or not. It is here to stay - for now.

Heading back to my lazy Saturday ~ I have gotten hooked on Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum books and I am on number 5. Do you think the girls will notice if I sneak away?

Wish on a Penny

2010-09-22T06:59:00.000-07:00

We met my Mom last night for ice cream at West Gate and afterwards the girls stopped and played by the fountains. As is customary with any sort of fountain, you must find a penny and make a wish. I dutifully handed them out. Also, as is customary, you can not tell anyone your wish or it won't come true.

Well, I forced Justin to tell me his. He said he just threw it in and made no wish. *sigh*

I have to be honest, It took me a really long time to think of a wish. Why is that? How come as adults we don't wish anymore? Is it because we are too practical? Do we have everything we want?

My wish ended up being for cooler weather. We broke a record this week with temps at 111 degrees. At 7 o'clock at night, while making my wish, it was probably about 102 degrees outside.

This morning when I woke up the news said it is supposed to be raining with a high of 89. Can you believe that? SEE PEOPLE!! Go and shine your penny!!

Our Vacation

2010-09-13T21:06:00.001-07:00

A week in Georgia with Cousins - a pay back of sorts for when they visited us here.

I could say we went for the weather (mom, I am sweatin' like a pig!) or for the amazing buildings (I was fascinated by the doors)... This one in Savannah.

You would think then it was for the food. Ohhh Paula Deen's was way fun!!

But no, it was for this... Cousin Love. And sure enough, they did.

They entered each other's worlds. They explored and they played. They made the little ones laugh.

Vacations are oh so good. Especially the ones where the place doesn't really matter. And you can tell for sure, when you come home knowing that you have just grown a little closer, because you had a chance to give a little more, and everything in life is back in focus.

Raise you up

2010-08-16T21:36:00.000-07:00

I am sort of glad I waited to write this post. Instead of taking the picture, waving her off, then blogging about it, I have been able to fully swallow the fact that I have a second grader. I have had time to watch her get ready in the morning, only to ask me if her hair looks OK. Time to realize I didn't have to remind her to get her back-pack or tie her shoes. Time to notice she can get off the bus on her own and walk to our front door without me.

Time to let it sink in that I only have just this one chance to do this right. And what is raising a child anyways but to show them how high they can go? What they can do. Who they can be. It is amazing to watch her soar but still so wonderfully sweet when she comes back to my arms for rest. I love you my second grader...

August is my New Year

2010-08-04T15:50:00.000-07:00

I am totally motivated lately and I really think it is because back-to-school time is more like my New Year. January just really stinks to start fresh. What better time to get re-organized then when all the coolest office supplies are on sale? When all the fruit and veggies taste great and there is still time a little daylight to take a walk after dinner?

Carissa had her first day of Preschool yesterday and even though she talked like a baby for the whole tour (talk about embarrassing...) she was like an amazingly BIG 4 year-old the morning of. Confident and ever-so proud!!

It was not a sad moment, that is for sure, and we both greatly need the space to grow. I am super excited for the things she will learn this year. She is so ready. Just ask her... she'll tell you.

In preparation for all the wonderful school projects I will be receiving I had Justin screw two pieces of 4' molding on my wall and I used the best glue in the world (E6000) to hold on the bulldog clips. Me and my bare fridge are happy :)

Here's to the New Year ;)

Paint a Kitchen Table

2010-08-02T08:28:00.001-07:00

We bought this kitchen table 8 years ago at Sam's Club for around $200. In that time it has moved 5 times and, we figure, has had over 5,840 family meals around it. It has heard discussions, felt hands held, been climbed on, spilled on, wiped up and wiped down. There has been moaning and whining, laughing and crying, all around this table.

When you start to think of a piece of furniture like that, well it becomes a part of you - of the family. What better way to honor it then give it a face lift? She needed one bad, dontcha think?

Justin sanded and I stained.

I am in LOVE LOVE LOVE with the finished product! It turned out so awesome. I woke up early this morning and couldn't wait to look at it again. The whole project cost about $30 dollars and we have a brand new kitchen.

I can't even imagine what will take place around her in the next 8 years...

And to make things even sweeter the weather was amazing this weekend. Nothing better then taking advantage of every drop of warm summer rain!

Crafty Owls

2010-07-30T14:11:00.000-07:00

I didn't want to blog about my Crafty Owls idea because I didn't want to jinx it. Let's face it most of my brilliant plans don't really work. But this time I really, really, wanted this to happen and I am so glad it did!!

I had 11 women over and the first project I picked was to make headbands based on the "Lauren Headband" from this tutorial. It looked easy enough and also adaptable for all different styles.

Not only did these women create - they inspired!! And here is the crazy thing. The thing I really didn't expect, but I should have known would happen, I learned something new about myself and it had nothing to do with crafting. It feels good to be with friends and I really needed it.
Maybe, this idea didn't come to me as a need to be creative. Maybe this idea came to me as a need to be fulfilled... I can not wait for next month!
Speaking of being full of fill... they couldn't resist jumping in a pile of pillow batting. What the heck, right?
On the home front we are landscaping our backyard. Here is the before picture... more to come.

i am still grateful

2010-07-14T10:14:00.000-07:00

Summer Slump

2010-07-14T09:26:00.000-07:00

Is it wrong that I have began the countdown to school? 27 more days...

We have officially started our Summer Slump. The birthday parties have ended, swim class is over, library story times aren't exciting, the girls won't play together and I have run out of ideas. Oh and did I mention, 113 degrees outside?

I would say that being a stay-at-home mom is the best job in the world but on days like today it feels like a prison sentence. Relaxed mom was so relaxed that now I have looked up from my summer colored glasses and am starting to see a breakdown of sorts. No one comes to eat when I prepare a meal. No one picks up anything. No one puts their clothes away. No one brushes their teeth. No one thanks me. No one goes to bed on time. No one is even laughing... just bickering. AGHHHH.

So now I must readjust ~ yet again. I must realign our days to gear us back into some semblance of order. I must make it known I am in charge - not Dora.

There is a silver lining. (Isn't there always?) We have been working on our bedroom. We loaded up our carts at IKEA this weekend (love you Smaland!). We nailed and hung and redesigned and now I have a peaceful sanctuary (minus the dirty clothes) for which to unwind.

There are still a few more touches to be added but I love the feeling I get when I enter my room. Because it is mine and although a barbie may slip past the threshold I reserve the right to chuck it right back out :)

Now I must get started on that chore chart...

7 and Full of Life

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

Audrey,

Are you serious? Seven!! Really?? I love this picture. Your eyes are shining and I can see just what you are - the most caring, loving, sensitive sister and daughter. As with all the years you have had, I just wish I can keep memorizing everything about you. I relish in the minutes I just take time to talk with you. You are so animated and have so many thoughts. You have showed us how laid back things can be - a new perspective - you are adding your very own element to our family and it is amazing.

There is a whole new sense of determination about you now and your talents are endless. A year ago you would never be able to finish a stitch. But now you pushed and pushed until your whole project was completed.

You choose a Bowling Bash for your Birthday and helped me make the cake. It was supposed to look completely different (I swear it looks easy on those family websites) but you helped shape it into your own. It turned out fabulous, of course. Just like when I turned my new white tank top pink... you said it just added some *zing*.

Second grade will be great. You will make so many new friends and learn so much more. I hope to continue to encourage you to learn your guitar, write your songs, and sing whenever your heart needs to.

Happy Birthday our sweet girl - Love Mommy and Daddy.

Father's Day

2010-06-22T20:09:00.000-07:00

I guess I could start by thanking these fine folks. If it wasn't for them then I wouldn't have...
Him. If I didn't have him, well, I just don't know what I would do. My life would be undone. It would be empty. It wouldn't be finished. And I can't say he "completes" me because that would just be cheesy, but well... anyways, without him we wouldn't have went camping in the Arizona woods.

They wouldn't have gotten to, uhhh, fish and have some intense lake side discussions.

Or some serious rest and relaxation. Which, of course, kids are in desperate need of.

Thanks, Daddy!!

Top Tooth Gone

2010-06-17T15:12:00.000-07:00

Here it is Shel Silverstein style:

I am the tooth puller, the clothes washer, the nail trimmer, the grocery shopper. I'm the meal planner, the clothes mender, the lady who calls the shots. I'm the giver of candy but the taker away. If I you have a bloody nose, I will run the other way. So just look real close and you will see, a woman who never knew what a mother she'd be.

In his word

2010-06-14T21:52:00.000-07:00

Started Vacation Bible School tonight. The girls just love being in HIS word.
God's word is True. Perfect words to fall asleep to on this Monday night.

My Weekend Dancers

2010-06-07T12:50:00.001-07:00

The girls danced this weekend in a recital and they both performed with their Daddy in a "Daddy Daughter Dance". I was so touched by every minute of it from our family coming out to watch them to how much the girls enjoyed themselves.

I just don't think they could be any cuter!!

Mom in the Summer

2010-06-04T07:33:00.000-07:00

God provides the string so you can make the web.

I have laid out the best plan. I know how to get to every source of cold water in a 20 minute radius. The new swimsuits are bought and we are stocked up on sunscreen. The girls have finally caught up on there sleep and are starting to rise with sun. It is summer here and you can just feel it.

This time I plan to do it right. I am going to stop and play puzzles even if I haven't put my bra on and it's 11:42 am. Sure, you can wash every baby, barbie, and toy you own. Start a craft project with a thousand little beads? Let me make one too. When a friend calls, I will actually sit and talk. In the middle of the day, for no reason, we can go get ice cream.

Why you ask?
Because I said so.

and I am the MOM.

Carissa is 4!!

2010-05-26T10:33:00.000-07:00

She has the spirit of the Sun, the moods of the Moon, and the will of the Wind.

- Julie Perkins Cantrell

She will forever be my youngest, my little little. She requires time to just stop and have little "chats". She is watchful and shy, careful but unafraid. My youngest daughter is part of what makes me whole. If you see me then more than likely she will be right by. I wonder if that will always be the case? If she will occupy the space beside me always?

Happy Birthday sweet girl.

Love, Mom

Weekend Flurry

2010-05-24T14:11:00.001-07:00

It is now officially summer vacation in our home. It is the time in our year where the girls and I get to plan a bunch of fun things and Dad gets to join in if he is lucky. This weekend one of his many jobs was to install ceiling fans. We purchased this "Five Minute Fan" with the hopes that, well, it would be a quick install... He didn't think it it was funny that I wanted to time the process, which started at 11:41 am.
He also didn't think it was funny when we completed the fan at 1:58 pm. Exactly 2 hours later.

Since we lost so much time on that project I am pleased to say the joining a food Co-op proved to be a success. Check out all this food I received at the first pick-up for just $15!!

So now I am off to figure out how to use my coconut this week... I am thinking homemade Almond Joys... HA Just kidding.

A quick funny...

2010-05-18T21:35:00.000-07:00

someone knocked on my front window today thinking it was my front door (which happens to be on the side of my house.)

They quickly realized the mistake BUT not before I saw. I immediatly got that little joy in my gut. You know, the kind of funny you feel when you witness someone do a little trip or walk into a sliding glass door.

It is hard to hide the grin...he he

I am so spoiled

2010-05-10T16:11:00.001-07:00

Audge went all out this Mother's Day and treated me like a Queen! I was invited to her classroom for a Mother's Day Spa Treatment. We received Cucumber Water (yummy), chocoloate covered strawberries, and mini muffins. Then we were told to sit back and relax as the first-graders rubbed our backs, put lotion on our legs and hands, and even painted our toes!

My sweet girl took this job very seriously! There wasn't even a single moment were she stopped being an attentive daughter. I was touched to tears and so proud that I am raising such a caring, compassionate person.

We also received some awesome news that Audge's First Grade Teacher is moving up to Second Grade and she is able to be in her class next year. Just when the guilt is about to overflow from the move and the all the transition, it seems like suddenly we are being carried through some really calm times.

The Lord's Grace is amazing!!

P.S. Check out the flip flops in the photo ~ handmade by my girl!

You know it's a good day when...

2010-05-07T11:17:00.000-07:00

Your child is playing so hard she doesn't have a care in the world...
The makings of a wonderful Home Office is in the works...

We successfully completed a project (jazzed up a clipboard) for Teacher Appreciation week...

And fresh Chocoloate Chip Cookies are baked and on hand.

It's days like this I wouldn't want to be anywhere else!

THE POD!!!

2010-05-03T16:28:00.001-07:00

If I never have to say the word POD again it will be too soon! Seven long months and we have finally moved into a home that is our own. The girls are so amazingly happy and it is so great to see them so relaxed and comfortable - even if it is among boxes.

Our new house is beautiful with views of the mountains and trees that line the streets. We are very lucky. We have been able to do things that most families don't attempt and we are so grateful for what we have experienced.

That being said it a pleasant kind of comfortableness to have finally stopped. You can never underestimate the power of just being still for a while. And that is just what I plan on doing, with my girls and the man I love.

I don't think it is going to take much to make this house OUR HOME.

Inspiration

2010-04-20T10:21:00.000-07:00

I spend just a "little" of my time with my mouth wide open drooling over some great blogs. I don't know how these people find the time but I love every minute I can absorb some of their great talent. Here are a few of my blog world inspirations that I hope to soon be able to put to good use in my new home (YIPEE!).

Our Cozy Nest
320 Sycamore
It's the little things that make a house a home (love her Ocean-inspired rooms!!)
The Idea Room
Make it and Love it
Crafterhours (I feel like I know them...)

These are just in addition to the blogs on my side bar. Once I start clicking around I get lost in the land of crafting, decorating, mommies, and dreams. Not a bad place to be.

Completed

2010-04-12T16:33:00.000-07:00

Major progress was made in our lives this weekend... WE BOUGHT A HOUSE!!!

We have decided to stay in Arizona. We have decided to finally settle down. We have decided that enough is enough. Dreams are good but reality is now and that is where we need to be.

It feels good to be moving on :)

And a plus, finally completed baby blanket for my new cousin Charlotte. I figure if she can wait 32 years to get here then I can be a few weeks late sending her present.

To the Zoo

2010-04-08T20:07:00.001-07:00

Today was the 1st grade field trip to the Phoenix Zoo. I am just going to come out and be totally honest here...

Not sure I really care for the zoo. There I said it. Loved that I got to spend the day with the girls. Loved the aluminum picnic table and the sack lunch. Love the MAP. Loved the trees and hiking up and down the hills just to see what was around the next bend. But the animals... not so much.

To redeem myself though I must tell you about the new additions to our family. Meet "Mario" (Audge's blue crown fish Betta) and "Golden Days" (Kissa's Betta). They are most fascinating creatures. They watch me clean the kitchen and sometimes we "chat".

Golden Days even made a "bubble nest" which, according to www.bettatalk.com, means he is happy, healthily and h**ny. Go figure?
I apologize for the picture. They don't pose well...

yet.

I am one of those bloggers

2010-04-07T08:59:00.001-07:00

My heart is still beating. I am just one of those bloggers that stopped telling.

Because it is getting too hard. We are preoccupied with home searching and decision-making. We are overwhelmed.

We celebrated Easter. Here. I thought we would be there by now. (Not really sure where there is?) I question everyday why we are not anywhere permanent. I wonder if it is just an obvious analogy to life. You know, nothing is permanent? Am I just being taught that simple lesson? Am I being taught at all? Or am I just caught up in the unfortunate economic times?

I envision the time I will look back on this post. When I am sitting amongst my things. When my mind is at rest. I envision knowing that all along we were just doing our best.

And our best is good enough.

It is Spring...

2010-03-23T21:26:00.000-07:00

AND WE TOOK A BREAK.

Mission Beach - where we got to first meet our newest family member - Aida Olivia.
Carissa was super "helpful" with her new cousin. Wanting to show her many things and even share her Cheese-It's.
Faces were painted at Seaport Village - my sweet butterfly girl.

Lover of the waves - such a free-spirit. (Don't ever let me harness that!!)

In awe of the beautiful tree but also of the brave girl who would run yards away - only to quickly run back. (You can always come home)

There was relaxing all around. Smiling - Laughing - Togetherness

~Fleeting are the moments but the memories will stay in my heart forever~

P.S. Grandpa is doing amazing - getting stronger and healing every day.

Updates and Thank You's...

2010-03-07T09:39:00.000-08:00

I just smile right out loud when I see all the wonderful comments you have sent me. I am so honored to be thought of by so many warm, caring friends. Thank you -Thank you!

We have been so busy and it has been more of the emotional busy. Which is very tiring. I took this pictures of the girls Friday morning. Some how they both ended up in our bed and I had a hard time waking them up. They were sleeping in each other's warmth and who would want to stir this peaceful bliss?

Weirdly, I did manage to make this quick table mat for my mom. It came together really fast and I "quilted" it on my machine using the "Stitch in the Ditch" method and some free-handed loops in the corners all the while dreaming of what I would do if I had a real machine that quilted...

While holding my grandpa's hand last Thursday he told me "where I am, is where I am supposed to be". As I type these words I am still just in awe. To be 82 and have your whole life slammed to a stop with absolutely no control (he says's he is tethered...) and to have such amazing trust and faith.

It is something to aspire to.

I thought I was fast...

2010-02-25T20:58:00.000-08:00

71 words

Speed test

It's really therapeutic... try it ;)

Thursdays with Grandpa

2010-02-25T19:26:00.000-08:00

One of my biggest blog fans was my Grandpa. He has always called me Buzzer (guess that is how I used to pronounce my name when I was little) and would tell me to "keep the stories coming." Tomorrow he can not wake up to see what my latest thought was because he is really sick with tubes and bags and drips and tape and machines attached to his body.

His hospital is near my home now and for that I am so grateful, although sad for who he is not near. I am able to visit, to wait for his eyes to open, to listen to his ramblings. Some coherant, some not, but it is all the same to me. Because he is here. Because I can hear him. Because he must get better.

So I will start now, writing every Thursday, to let you know, or at least remind myself, that everyday is a new day. And hopefully one day he will read my blog again.

My Sweet Relief

2010-02-23T09:45:00.001-08:00

Ahh... Sewing is my sweet relief. Time when I can zone out and create. Use my hands to produce something. My mind relaxes and I am able to just be in the moment.

About 2 months ago I was talking to Kristie from Simply Stylish Designs and we decided to make each other the Jingle Jolly Table Runner from the Happy Zombie website. Here are the results. The one layed out is the one I received. I can't wait to do it again. It was a give (which felt good!!) and a receive (which was wonderful!!).

Here is a few pictures of the runner I made for my giveaway...

In a time in my life when I don't know really where we are meant to be I am so lucky to know who I am. When the questions are to hard to answer and the sadness and hurting of my loved ones seems too hard to take I can still go to that place where it is all right. Sewing helps me get there :)

Do you have such a spot?

2010-02-17T08:04:00.000-08:00

There are some days I can deal with most anything that is thrown my way. I sing along in the car. I have a cherry voice. You would like to be near me. Yesterday was one of those days!

Sick Kid/Dance Recital/No Gas/Short Amount of time. No problem:
7:45 am -Find doctor's number
8:00 am -Wait on hold for 25 minutes
8:25 am -Explain issue
8: 30am -Hold breathe and pray for next available appointment time (10:30)
8:40 am -Get everyone ready (skip shower-no time) must go to dance recital first.
8:52 am -Get in car and realize I have no gas - pray again we make it to first stop, as we are late.

9:05 am - Watch performance, clap, cheer, and hug

9:48 am - Race out of there - get gas

10:33 am - Arrive at doctors, act like I don't know I am late, fill out forms, wait

10:52 am -Talk to Doctor, hold down child while throat is swabbed

11:24 am -Leave Doctors - Head to McDonald's (it is a must, right?)

11:58 am - Turn in prescription which will be be ready in TWO hours.

12:16 am - Return home.

All in a mornings work. Easy-peasy... :/

Winner is...

2010-02-07T15:25:00.000-08:00

The winner of my giveaway is Julie from Creative Jule!!! Swing by her blog for some great inspirations. I can't wait to make a table runner for such a fabulous mother and friend! (Of course, all great things take time... I mean, ahem, the runner is in the mail!!)

OK - speaking of time. My brand-new niece should be here any day and we can hardly wait. I made her this cozy little baby blanket.Appliqued the "A" and flowers with love onto soft cream flannel.

Must be off to eat my body weight in chips. I mean, watch the Super Bowl.

Accomplishments

2010-02-05T11:47:00.000-08:00

This is long overdue so shame on me!! My smarty-pants first grader was Student of the Month for January! As mothers we can praise our children until we are blue in the face but the minute it comes from someone else they finally hear it and believe it... You are great!

We are so proud of you :)

I didn't get a bumper sticker though... I kinda wanted one.

You can't expect me to rave about one child's accomplishments and not mention the others? So here is Kissa. She proudly managed to fit a pair of Barbie sunglasses on her nose.

It's the small stuff, you know. Last day for the GIVEAWAY if you haven't left a comment... ya better :)

Rainbow for Hope

2010-02-01T08:26:00.001-08:00

On the way to school this morning the girls and I saw a rainbow. I was smiling to myself because my mom always told me rainbows stand for Hope. Without missing a beat Audrey says, "Wow, that is a lot of hope!"

And all I could think of was this man. And I knew. That rainbow and all it's hope was meant just for him.

100th POST!!

2010-01-28T14:57:00.000-08:00

Today it is official. I have subjected the World Wide Web with exactly 100 blog postings! Not sure if I can claim it was totally for posterity because sometimes I think it treads the line of down right therapy. I enjoy it though. It makes me feel connected to something. Proof of my life. Plus, it is the one thing I kept up with consistently in the last 2 years. (Haven't even done that with flossing...)

Confession: Not only do I like writing my blog to everyone but to no one in particular, I could spend hours reading total strangers blog posts too. Mostly crafty ladies like myself with crazy kids running insane in the background. From these late night readings I come across great moms with awesome ideas that I absorb like a sponge. Here is the latest I took from Amy at The Idea Room.

I wish I could prove to you how easy this was too make. You will have to take my word for it.

They would craft all day if they could. I told them we could go ride bikes. I would take them to the park. "CRAFTS", they said. I couldn't argue...

In honor of my 100th post I will make a table runner for one lucky, randomly picked person who comments on this post from now until February 5th. I am doing this for two reasons:

1 - I like getting free things so I know you do too...

2- I am completely nosy about who is reading about my crazy life.

The table runner you might win will be similar to the size of this runner that I made for my future kitchen table. The one I will have in my future house. That you may one day be invited to see... in the future.
In all seriousness - thanks for following along. I like you here :)

To Bear or not to Bear?

2010-01-24T20:59:00.000-08:00

"Waiting on God requires the willingness to bear uncertainty, to carry within myself the unanswered question, lifting my heart to God whenever it intrudes upon my thoughts." -Elisabeth Elliot

For the most part I feel like I willingly bear a lot of things. The high-pitched screams of little girls, getting up right after I sit down - because someone needs something, the drive to Audrey's school, the lack of sleep I feel I have all the time, my cooking... I could go on - but I won't.

The things I bear you could expect - practically predict. I am not a person who carries around unanswered questions. I google things and viola ~ my mind is set free. But of late, I have unanswered questions and I know it is not google who will ultimatly lead me to my answer.

So I plan on doing a lot of heavy lifting to God. I plan on showing a lot more willingness. I plan on bearing one more thing... uncertainty.

And my itsy, bitsy, teeny-tiny prayer is that maybe he won't make me WAIT so long!

Everyday

2010-01-19T12:42:00.000-08:00

Well I can not quite say this month has been an easy one so far but there have been some nice moments. We are full in the realization that where we are living now is where we will be at least until the end of the school year. Good to know - so we know... but bad to know because it means slow progress to the next stop. The stop that I just can not wait for...

In these nice January moments I have been able to slip away and do a little quilting. Here is a top I made based on this post at the Moda Bake Shop. I will never, ever be able to quilt it like she has but it will fun to finish.

I took this shot of the girls playing "school". Carissa gets in trouble a lot by her "teacher" who can sometimes be rather controlling. I wonder what the other students are thinking??

And to ease my Mother's Guilt I have finally enrolled Carissa in dance. The experience (need I even mention it?) is far different from that of my first child. There are no tears, no anxiety over the outfit, or sadness of seperation - just a simple, see ya later mom...

My list is long of things to do, to make, to read, to accomplish. I will continue to share.

In the meantime, I just finished "The Hunger Games" and "Catching Fire" by Susanne Collins. Great reads - give 'em a go :)

Quest for a Cactus

2010-01-11T09:11:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Audrey's WA first grade teacher we have been on a quest to find something fun and Arizona-ish to send back to her old school. I read in the paper that we live really close to the 4th largest cactus in Arizona. So I bribed my family to hike with me at Estrella Mountain Park and take a picture in front of it with the hopes we could send them a picture of the cactus and a cactus plant.

This shot was taken using my camera timer. We had stopped for some snacks under a shady mesquite tree.
We saw plenty of cacti... big and small (or big ones and baby ones...). We imagined how you would actually get to the water hidden in those arms. We liked these ones because the girls thought they looked like a little family.

I would follow them anywhere...

Although we did not see the 4th largest cactus due to the fact that is was a 4 mile hike. We did see this cactus. Which we thought was pretty impressive.

Two Zero One Zero

2010-01-05T08:51:00.001-08:00

"Now we can write Two Zero One Zero Mom!"

If, years ago, you would have told me that I would have a daughter (let alone TWO daughters) in the year 2010 I wouldn't have believed you. Remember when 2000 seemed unreal?? Wasn't that just yesturday?

I am a goal-setter, as you might know. I think to rethink, revamp, and re-do all the time. Sometimes to improve things and other times just to mix things up. But, in our current situation, there is really nothing tangible (besides myself - and we won't go there) that I can re-do. So I am taking this year's resolutions to matters of the heart. I am resolving to be more giving, to show more love, to think less about me and more about others.

I want to go out of my way to give too. You know the kind were it feels a little uncomfortable at first but then you realize it was worth it.

I want to sign up for something without being asked. Put it on my calendar - make time. I am challenging myself to one thing a month.

I want to use my time the right way before all my time uses me.

Because I am already 32
Because life is going way too fast
Because sometimes I watch it fly by with out joining in
Because I only get one chance.

Great December

2009-12-30T17:28:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

We had such a fantastic year. Can not wait to see what 2010 has in store.

Christmas is a little nuts.

2009-12-21T20:21:00.001-08:00

Let's face it people...Christmas is a little nuts. I mean, who doesn't go a little crazy trying to make it be everything they "think" it should be? Running to the store for just one more thing. Making that last batch of cookies even though you would rather eat a bowl of lettuce leaves. Discussing when, where, and how the gifts will be exchanged. Balancing the checkbook, crying, and realizing you forgot to get your father-in-law something. Nuts.. Nuts.

So we try and find those moments where we can say that this IS what Christmas means. Here are a few of mine this year:

My Saint-in-Law decided to adopt two group homes that house 14 children in them. She dreamed up a glorious Christmas morning for them and went out and recruited friends, families, churches, teachers, and neighbors to make it happen. Then she invited everyone over to her house to wrap (Check out these amazing ladies below!). She fed these people, entertained their kids, and give the husbands beer and a football game in exchange for help.

We didn't deserve it - Your are amazing Sister!!
Then there are these crazy people called MOMS that live in a city near you. They wipe snot and listen to kids cry. They change diapers and read. They give baths and rub backs. They also coordinate sing-a-longs at Senior Centers and bring - wait for it - homemade SUGAR FREE cookies for the audience! They are the Christmas Givers.

And lastly we come to these which are my own. I hope they were watching. I hope they know.

That even if all the Christmas Cards you send out come directly right back to you because you did not adhere the labels properly and now you have know idea who got a card and who didn't... there are small Christmas miracles happening everyday.

That, yes, Christmas is nuts. But if you look really close it is spectacular.

P.S. If you did not receive a card from me, and would like one, kindly tell me. Or, just know, that I really was thinking of you this holiday season and I will try again next year.

Not Early Enough

2009-12-15T06:53:00.000-08:00

I have spent the last year of my life in Washington being led into my day with anticipation of the newness it would bring. Most mornings I was able to wake up, at least with, the rising sun and we would great the day together. (Yes, there is sun in Washington!)

But, oh know, not here. In Arizona I wake up and am MOCKED by the gleaming sunlight in my window. "Duh, the day has started...without YOU! You are now behind in all you need to accomplish." It is almost as if the amazing brightness from the ball of inferno is shining directly onto only MY weary eyes. Highlighting the age I am and forcing me to feel it's heaviness. If I could quote Carissa when the sun is shining into her eyes when we are driving " I hate the sun!".

So this is Christmas... (can you hear the song in your head?) for near and for dear ones...

The Junie B. Jones production at the Tempe Arts Center was wonderful. I can not go on enough about how happy I was to be able to take my daughter to this performance.

As we were looking for our seats I start to have a mini anxiety attack because apparently I booked two seat with an AISLE in between us. Good if you are going with someone you don't want to sit by but not so much with your 6-year old!! Thankfully the box office was kind enough to switch me and in exchange we received the 6th row back from the stage right in the center aisle! Check out our view!

Carissa spent the day with Daddy seeing "The Princess and the Frog". He doesn't take pictures and has no charming stories to add. I think she had a great time.

Just one more Christmas joy to post... Audrey received this special package yesturday from her first grade class in Washington.

It was filled with the school supplies she didn't take when she left. Her ID cards and an awesome card from the class. It showed little colored gingerbread cookies with the faces being each kid in the class. Probably on my top ten list of most thoughtful things I have seen in my life.

Sending a little prayer up for those first grade teachers :)

Christmas Frenzy

2009-12-10T16:02:00.001-08:00

Ahhh... the "Winter Wonderland" music performance at school!! Who doesn't get enjoyment out of watching a bunch of 6 year-olds sing "HO HO HO, who wouldn't know?" What a great Christmas tradition.
I am hoping to try and keep up with posting as Christmas is getting closer. We still have the tree to get and decorate, a special day planned with me and Audrey to see a play, and also the Nutcracker Ballet. That is just this weekend. The plans are made all the way out through New Years and that feels good!

All our love ~

The in thing is the TOOTH out!

2009-12-01T15:03:00.000-08:00

First Tooth Out!!

It was hanging by a thread but it still took 3 hours for permission to even get my hand close to her lips! I was finally granted access and joy quickly traded fear. How much did you get from the tooth fairy? Audrey had it spent before the Daddy fairy could make it to the ATM!

Is it wrong to be jealous? To have a fun little hole in your mouth you can play with all day and take your mind off of what other tasks you are supposed to be doing? How about starting to cook dinner then stopping mid-stir just to twirl your tongue in a little groove in your mouth...

Comfortable Rhythm

2009-11-20T11:36:00.000-08:00

It's Friday and I have been reflecting on our week all morning. Mostly because it was so smooth. It seems like we have finally reached a comfortable rhythm. Homework did not consume our evenings, the girls got along and Carissa is even doing that thing were she kinda does a run-skip instead of a walk.

There is so much uncertainty around our lives; where will we live? where will we work? where where will we go to church? My head starts to spin when I consider it all. I have no plan, no guide, no idea.
But I have a purpose and after thinking this week through I am sure that is what is holding us together. Helen Keller wrote that happiness comes from "fidelty to a worthy purpose". Fidelty meaning a truthful connection to a source. I know I have a truthful connection to a worthy purpose.

And I think we can all agree they are so beautiful :0)

Sunsets are grand

2009-11-10T11:22:00.001-08:00

They really don't lie. The sunsets in Arizona are hard to beat. We took the girls out to the desert Friday night with our travel trailer. They collected quartz rocks and bullet shells (104 to be exact). Once again we were reminded that they are what is so dang important about our life. (The girls, not the bullet shells.)

If you are searching for contenment in your life just follow the example of a child. It doesn't matter where you are it only matters who is there with you. I mean if you can find joy in searching for bullet shells in the dirt with a headlight on then you can find joy anywhere!!

I am looking forward to November. Thanksgiving crafts and the cool breeze. Good thing because it is already a third of the way through. Nothing like trying to seize the moment after it's gone - yikes.

Eight Years of Us

2009-11-03T18:05:00.001-08:00

Happy Anniversary to us. It has been eight years and it really does feel like yesturday we were dreaming up a life we wanted to create together. Now look at us... or just listen. It's the sound of a family - our family. It is full of smiles and laughter, of inside jokes. Secrets only you and I share. Whisperings that just you and I hear. Worries that bind us together and hope that keeps us going. It is Love and it is good...

anf 517

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-28T15:52:00.000-07:00

The great thing this week, besides Audrey LOVING her new school, is Halloween. No matter what box didn't get unpacked or papers went missing you can always celebrate Halloween.

We have a lot of fun things planned for the weekend but here are a few pictures of us enjoying so far.
I think Daddy did a great job. No fancy carving kit - just a good 'ol fashion steak knife and some pointers from the 3 year old!

Today we made the quickest, easiest, make mom look like a star Pumpkin Pie Playdough. Here is link.

The highlight so far was opening the Halloween Decorations box. I couldn't part with their Halloween shirts from last year so that is what they had on in the pictures. Didn't bother them a bit that they were way too small. All in the spirit of the season!

Not there yet

2009-10-24T23:36:00.000-07:00

Well we are physically here - in Arizona - but just not there yet. I have hope though... Stella got her groove back so we can too right?

Our welcoming high 80 degree weather isn't helping the transition but it's only been a week. We have been sick, too (oink oink). All of our stuff hasn't arrived here either. So it's going to happen for us. We will fit this puzzle back together.

Normalcy is in our future... stay tuned.

The Ultimate Quilter

2009-10-08T11:47:00.000-07:00

We woke up this morning to the see the work of the ultimate quilter all around us. It was a super foggy morning and it looked as if the Halloween Spiders had been working all night. I am not a huge fan of spiders when then are in my house but I don't mind the admiring the work they do outside. Spooky huh?

Last night it occured to me that we really don't need all this stuff. As we were boxing it up we noticed the girls had decided to continue to play with what was left out...

A closet, four chairs, 5 books, two babies, and two bathroom towels. They stayed busy for a full hour. Imagination at it's best :)

Amongst Boxes

2009-10-05T14:52:00.000-07:00

We have found ourselves yet again amongst the boxes. The funny thing is they are the same boxes we moved only 14 months ago. We saved so many, in fact, if I packed according to what I had originally wrote on the box I could save a lot of time and take the guesswork out about what fits where. Ohhh but there is no fun in that. And lets face it... moving should be fun.

The first thing to get boxed up was all my crafting supplies. I knew if I didn't do that I wouldn't be able to stop. I was able to finish this quilt just in time. It is a scrap quilt from all the projects I have worked on over the past year and my absolute favorite by far.

My little girl has been such a trooper about this move thing (both girls have!). Although she asks everyday if we are leaving for Arizona I really am not sure if she even gets it. We kind of wonder if she will even remember living here? I know we will :)

On to packing more boxes. ~

On the Move

2009-09-24T12:37:00.000-07:00

If you are keeping up with us well then you may want to know that we are on the move again... It has been in the works for over a couple of months and I have to admit I am glad to finally have a DECISION. Although not entirely sold on the fact that it is the right one I know it is one that had to be made.

There is something easy about moving back "home" with all of it's familiarity. Only being gone a little over a year will not make for such a huge adjustment. Which is good, right? Of course, there are the trees that will not be hovering. The chilly mornings and the constant yearning for the warm cup of coffee with not be so strong.

The thing that I must convince myself, other then I HAVE to start packing, is there will be new adventures where ever we go. Something to discover, to learn, to admire. To say that we were even able to have had a taste of this beautiful place is amazing and something I will hold in my heart forever.

I think I will start on books first...no maybe the linen closet...no maybe I will get that warm cup of coffee then decide :)

School Nurse

2009-09-22T13:05:00.000-07:00

The great thing about caller ID is when the phone rings you can begin to worry, laugh, cry, or smile depending on what number is flashing before you. Yesterday the ID bleep with the number to Audrey's school nurse and I immediately started to worry.

She informed me that Audrey felt sick and that I should come and pick her up. So I did and brought her home promptly to a safe and cozy spot on the couch. A TV tray was quickly assembled with a bucket, saltines, and some watered down juice. Her set-up was extremely inviting if I do say so myself and I think it did the trick because miraculously she was healed in a little over an hour.

As the day progressed I began to describe to her times I had a "stomach ache" and was able to see my mom faster than normal. Justin even had a few stories to share as well. Armed with this knowledge she became comfortable in describing that her stomach did hurt but she was also really nervous about reading after recess and how her teacher might call on her even if she doesn't put her hand up (oh that witch!)

So I am sending out a one mom vigil today that my daughter makes it through recess and through reading this afternoon. My simple prayer is that when called on, the answer will be on the tip of her tongue, and she will have the courage to speak it!

Join me will you??

Oak Street Bag

2009-09-18T13:30:00.001-07:00

There is nothing better then having a friend who can sew REALLY good and who lets you practice on their new creations. Kristie over at Simply Stylish Designs gave me the opportunity to test out her Oak Street Bag pattern and I have to admit I was a little scared.

First off I have to say I was really impressed with the precision of the instructions and the pattern pieces. It was so well written that even people who don't normally follow directions (hmm...) won't mind staying on track.

The bag calls for two great big pockets that are just the perfect size for cell phone and keys. Sorry about the picture but if you look closely you can see them.

The bag is big but not so big it overpowers the woman carrying it. I would recommend this pattern if you are looking to create something in a long afternoon that gives you instant gratification :)

Allright now. Stop staring and go look at Kristie's site!!