Party Of Six

Truer words were never spoken

2012-01-25T16:24:00.002-08:00

I'm always looking for quotes.

I love quotes.

I love to be enlightened &inspired.

I wanted to share something I came across the other day.

If you will take the time to read these,

I promise you'll come away with an enlightened perspective.

The subjects covered affect us all on a daily basis.

They're written by Andy Rooney,

"A man with the gift of saying so much with so few words".

Enjoy

******

I've learned.... The best classroom in the world is at the feet of an elderly person.

I've learned ....that when you're in love, it shows.

I've learned....That just one person saying to me, "You've made my day!" makes my day.

I've learned....That having a child fall asleep in your arms is one of the most peaceful feelings in the world.

I've learned....That being kind is more important that being right.

I've learned....That you should never say no to a gift from a child.

I've learned....That I can always pray for someone when I don't have the strength to help him in some other way.

I've learned....That no matter how serious your life requires you to be, everyone needs a friend to act goofy with.

I've learned....That sometimes all a person needs is a hand to hold and a heart to understand.

I've learned....That simple walks with my father around the block on summer nights when I was a child did wonders for me as an adult.

I've learned....That life is like a roll of toilet paper.The closer it gets to the end, the faster it goes.

I've learned....That we should be glad God doesn't give us everything we ask for.

I've learned....That money doesn't buy class.

I've learned....That it's those small daily happenings that make life so spectacular.

I've learned....That under everyone's hard shell is someone who wants to be appreciated and loved.

I've learned....That to ignore the facts does not change the facts.

I've learned....That when you plan to get even with someone, you are only letting that person continue to hurt you.

I've learned....That love,not time, heals all wounds.

I've learned....That the easiest way for me to grow as a person is to surround myself with people smarter than I am.

I've learned....That everyone you meet deserves to be greeted with a smile.

I've learned....That no one is perfect until you fall in love with them.

I've learned....That life is tough, but I'm tougher.

I've learned....That opportunities are never lost; someone will take the ones you miss.

I've learned....That when you harbor bitterness,happiness will dock elsewhere.

I've learned....That one should keep his words both soft and tender because tomorrow he may have to eat them.

I've learned....That a smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks.

I've learned....That everyone wants to live on top of the mountain but all the happiness and growth occurs while you're climbing it.

I've learned....That the less time I have to work with, the more thing's get done.

XOXO

Until next time...

"I've learned....That life is tough, but I'm tougher"

Boooooing!

2012-01-20T16:05:00.001-08:00

Hey y'all!
Spring has sprung!

Anyone else have blossoms in January?

We do here in Southern California!

{Today, at Victoria Gardens}

#4

2012-01-17T08:40:00.004-08:00

My little "Carolina girl" is 4 today!

She basically had two day's to party!

Yesterday, her morning started off with TWO special deliveries!

Grampa sent her a big balloon bouquet and teddy bear and Daddy sent her roses and a teddy bear.

So special!

Later that evening we went down to John's Incredible Pizza

in Montclair for her family party.

Her birthday theme this year was Strawberry Shortcake.

There was pizza and cake and ice cream and goodie bag's galore!

All of her favorite people were there--

Mommy, Lunden, G-maw, Aunt Christy, Hunter & Canyon,

Carsen and Logan and Steve ( Lunden's Boyfriend).

We did miss having G-paw, Brennen and Daddy there!

Today, on her REAL birthday mommy took her down to Ontario mills mall

to get a Build-a-Bear and some outfits to dress it up in.Then, we had lunch together at

the Cheesecake Factory @ Victoria Gardens.They even brought out a piece of our

Chocolate mousse cheesecake, candle-lit while singing to my sweet Emmy.

After lunch we walked around Victoria Gardens and Emersn even got a few new outfits of her own. Some mighty cute stuff!

I LOVE making my kid's birthday's special.

You make my heart sing,Emmy!

I love celebrating YOU.

Today and everyday!

Happy Birthday!!

XOXO

I {HEART} S.D.

2012-01-15T17:01:00.000-08:00

Wow, it's the middle of the month!

Usually, this month goes by really slow but it is truckin' along

this year.

So, we took a drive yesterday. We have been wanting a beach day for awhile

so the kid's and I drove down to San Diego. One of my favorite cities!

We spent our time walking the beach on Coronado and over at

Sea Port Village. So fun!

I will just let the photos speak for themselves.

Have a wonderful week!

It was just an amazing day!

And I know we will be back there SOON!

Until next time...

"I'm not afraid of storms, for I am learning to sail my ship"

A house is not a home until it has a dog.

2012-01-13T09:43:00.001-08:00

Hey y'all!

So, I'm in the market for puppies--

HUSKY puppies.

Lunden and I were in Hollister over the holiday and

a girl in her 20's had one in her arms.

It couldn't have been more than a couple months old.

After that, Lunden and I were hooked.

Whoever said you can't buy happiness forgot little puppies!!!

I've been on the lookout. I like checking out the animal shelter's first.

Saving a life and keeping cost's low is always best but

These little fluff balls aren't easy to find and they aren't cheap!

Either way, we will have TWO and they will fit into our family perfectly.

{ We want one in this color}

{..and this color}

Now, admit it...you said, "Aw" when you saw these little faces!

Yeah, Lunden and I do it all the time.

Until next time...

" The is no psychiatrist in the world like a puppy licking your face."

Word of the year

2012-01-11T10:54:00.005-08:00

Have you chosen your Word of the Year?

Apparently, a Word of the Year is the new New Years resolution.

Basically, you choose one word that has the potential to inspire you

and create intention in your life, all year long.

I actually went back and forth on two different words.

the other being communication.

Perhaps, I will blog about that word in an upcoming post.

However, the word I chose for 2012 is Serendipity.

It's meaning:

A fortunate accident

I've always loved the word. It's such a happy sounding word, right?

But it's such a contradiction.

The first time I heard this word I was a young child living in Utah.

We often visited an ice cream parlor in Salt Lake City called, Serendipity.

So, I have always correlated the word Serendipity to a yummy treat...

Mint Chocolate chip ice cream ( my favorite) never really knowing the

true definition of the word.

Until....

I watched the movie, 'Serendipity'.

Which is now my 2nd favorite movie,ever.

and is the inspiration for my Word of the Year.

( I will share my #1 movie later)

My life has been full of serendipitous moments thus far.

Windfalls that were not anticipated but turned into something profound in my life.

I am finding that the less I worry about controlling the situations in my life,

allowing things to be what they will be and fall in to place on their own, the better.

Life's a mess. It's chaos personified.

And somehow through all the chaos and looking for that something you want...

you end up finding something else.

Realizing that what you've found is more suited to your needs

than what you thought you were looking for.

I don't know where life is going to take me.

I've made plans and I've had them ripped apart right in my face.

I have learned that no one is safe in lifes trials. Some have more than others but no one is free or safe from the choices others make which in turn effect your own life.

So, I choose to let life take me where it will ultimately take me.

Determined to do the right thing for me and my children.

Showing love & kindness & gratitude along the way

with all the passion I can muster!

That is who I am. And I will continue to be.

Life will not make me hard or cold as I have seen it do to so many.

I welcome more "fortunate accidents" along this journey called life.

True love, education and a place to nest.

It's that "spice" in the Spice of life!

Until next time...

Smiling doesn't always mean you are happy. Sometimes,it means you are strong

(Oh...and my #1 favorite movie..EVER.. is called 'Fools Rush In')

XOXO

Today is a gift. That is why it is called the present++*

2012-01-07T10:42:00.004-08:00

It's day 7 of the New year.

Is it time yet to think of a resolution?

I will have to get back to ya on that one.

I'm trying to take in TODAY and not worry so much about tomorrow

Maybe that is the ultimate resolution?

Whether or not it is clear what my resolution(s) will be...

there is no doubt that the universe is unfolding

as it should, right now. Today. In the present.

If the dreams my heart wishes for come true...

then I am all the more lucky.

Right now, today, I long to be near the ocean.

The beach.Toes in the sand.

It's solice and peacefulness. Sun on my skin. Ocean breeze blowing in my face.

A beach bike and bike path curving along the sand.

A picknic. The waves crashing on the coastline.

Sun and water meeting at sunset.

{ I took this photo @ Coronado Island-San Diego. My favorite escape}

Until next time....

“Think about all the things that are right in your life, right now.

Let that gracious feeling wash over you like a waterfall."

365 days ahead

2012-01-01T15:24:00.002-08:00

Hi!

Happy New Year!

I absolutely welcome the new year with open arms!

I am greatful for yet another year of life, continued health

and an abundance of opportunities.

New Years is all about- getting another chance.

to live; to believe; to give; to receive; to fall in love; to share a smile; to walk an inch; to run a mile; to dive into sunsets; to forgive; to forget; to love where you’re going; to embrace where you’ve been; to take a deep breath, close your eyes . . . and begin.

May the new year be filled with love, adventure, and dreams come true.

Love,

XOXO

Cheers to a new year and another chance

to get it right*+*+

Two thumbs up!

2011-12-26T09:29:00.000-08:00

I hope this post finds everyone

enjoying their holiday break.

I hope that everyone enjoyed Christmas day with

friends & loved ones too.

Did 'Santa' bring everything you wished for?

Did you stop to think about the true meaning of Christmas?

My son Carsen, amidst all of the unwrapping of gift's

said (with a gasp), "Today is baby Jesus' birthday!!"

Made me so proud that my 8 year old son was thinking

of something more....something bigger than himself.

Last evening got quiet real quick in our home.

Ben took the 3 little ones with him to spend this week with them

Christy and her boy's had to head home.

Suddenly the house became too quiet.

Lunden & I decided to hit up a movie.

We went to see...

'New Year's Eve'

It is such a WONDERFUL movie.

You can't really go wrong with a Gary Marshall movie, right?

I give it two thumbs up and highly recommend it to everyone.

Until next time....

"Before we pop the champagne and celebrate the New Year, let's stop and reflect on the year that has gone by. To remember both our triumphs and our missteps, our promises made and broken. The times we opened ourselves up to great adventures or closed ourselves down for fear of getting hurt because that is what New Years is all about- getting another chance.

A chance to forgive, to do better, to do more, to give more, to love more.

And stop worrying about what if and start embracing what would be.

So when that ball drops at midnight and it will drop, let's remember to be nice to each other,

kind to each other. And not just tonight but all year long"

-- 'New Years Eve'

Christmas festivities

2011-12-24T13:46:00.001-08:00

Hi!

Happy Christmas eve!

Is it seriously Christmas eve already? Sheesh.

We are in the midst of wrapping and

waiting for my sister and her boy's to come up for the night.

Oh!And we need to decorate cookies for Santa!

Lot's 'O fun!!

So, the week leading up to Christmas is always a blast around here.

Lunden's birthday, traditional birthday trip to Disneyland, shopping, baking,etc.

I have way too many photos to still go through and edit and not enough time to do it.

So, for now, I am posting (picture wise) some random photos of the past few days.

I will post more photos soon!

We picked up Grandpa at the airport.

He flew in to town for Christmas!

Yay!

My babies

We always make a trek to Bass Pro shop for their

Winter Wonderland activities!

Hunter and Logan

Logan checkin' out the 4-wheeler's.

He totally fits the part.

Such a stud.

DISNEYLAND

We stood in line to see Alice

and Emersyn became the center of attention.

The White Rabbit as well as the Mad Hatter

both came over to show the love to Emmy.

So special!!!

Lunden

Lunden & Brennen always get to pick out

a birthday hat at D-land. It's tradition!!

This is the one she picked.

Emmy sat with Grama and got popcorn

while we went on the Matterhorn

BUT...they came and found us in line and shared.

Lunden and Steve

Matterhorn

Lunden Hunter and Steve ( Lundens BF)

They got their tea cup spinning FAST!

My Girls in New Orleans square

Lunch at our fave

Mexican place next to Thunder Mountain

Ok, I'm still adding photos so keep checkin' back!

Until next time....

"Tomorrow is Christmas! It's practically here!!"

17

2011-12-20T08:37:00.004-08:00

... the # of years I have been blessed to be in these TWO amazing kid's lives!

Have a FABULOUS birthday!

I love you so much!

(Brennen, we MISS your face!!)

XOXO

BLOW OUT THE CANDLES ON THE CAKE

AND MAKE A WISH!!

The icing on the cake

2011-12-12T19:59:00.005-08:00

Ho! Ho! Ho!

Like my fish face?

Yeah, it was completely taken by accident but I was kinda diggin' it so..there ya go!

Is everyone having a cool yule so far?

I'm tellin' ya, I LOVE Monday's!!!

Most people hate Monday's,. It's the start of another week...

You have to wait a whole 5 day's until the weekend begins....

And there's even a song sung by The Bangle's about a 'Manic Monday'.

The reason I love Monday's ?

I get to spend the whole day doing something..

anything... with my two girl's.

Lunden doesn't have school on Monday's so we decide what we will do

and we go do it. Sometimes we take a little road-trip, sometimes its just to check out a new mall, we've even gone to Downtown Disney. Regardless we ALWAYS have lunch together.

{Victoria Gardens}

Today, we chose to do a little Christmas/birthday shopping

and we went to Lucille's BBQ for lunch.

It was pouring rain. Do you think between the three of us we had an umbrella?

Nope!

Lunden loves drinking out of a mason jar. So do I!

It kinda reminds us of South Carolina.

Diet coke. Mmm! Lunden always teases me at how slow I drink.

My Lunden {and her twin brother Brennen} turn 17 next week.

Where does the time go? It all goes by so fast!

One minute she was Emersyn's age. The next...a young,sweet and gorgous young woman.

I wish Brennen were here enjoying this time with us.

Still...

We giggle, we talk, we eat, we take silly pictures...

we just enjoy the time together!

Emersyn always makes thing's interesting.

Yesterday, she told me I was on the naughty list for being silly.

She does and say's the silliest thing's.

My girl's. This is what it's all about.

They are so cute together.

Lunden enjoyed fried chicken and mashed potatoes.

Her veggies were quite delicious. I stole a few.

I love their Pulled pork sandwich. SO yummy!

Emersyn found a funky french fry

Ok, so now for the ....

ICING ON THE CAKE!

The 1st snow fall of the year!!!

We've been expecting a "winter storm" to roll in today/tonight.

We've been crossing our fingers and hoping that the snow level would actually drop

to OUR level which is roughly 3000 ft.

As we were driving down to our destination,the Cajon pass {Elevation 4000+}

was already foggy & rainy.

We kept our finger's crossed in hopes that old man winter

would actually make an appearance in Southern California.

And HE DID!

As we were driving back up " the hill" ....

Little by little the pouring rain turned to big fluffy snowflakes!

Lunden & I were giggling with delight. Just in awe of the white stuff.

After all, we haven't seen it since last January!

Lunden was snapping photos from the car

and we cranked up the Christmas music a little bit louder.

Once we reached the top of the pass I told Lunden that we

HAD to take the first exit so we could stop and enjoy the falling snow.

And of course...take pictures! It was the perfect photo op!

If you know me, I am always snapping pictures of the kid's

and anything we are doing. It's important to me and always has been.

Emersyn had been asleep so we woke her up. We wanted her to see the snow!

We parked the car at an abandoned gas station off of Oak Summit exit

and we let the snow fall down all around us.

Lunden even got a taste.

It reminded me of the 'Charlie Brown Christmas' special.

where the characters/ kid's are all outside catching snowflakes on their tongues

and Lucy say's, " I never eat December snowflakes. I always wait until January!"

Well, we will be eating December snowflakes because we might not see them in January!

It was a VERY good day and we hope to see more snow tomorrow morning.

We'll see!

Until next time...

"I wanna wash my hands, my face and hair with snow"

- White Christmas

All is Merry & Bright

2011-12-10T16:43:00.010-08:00

Happy December 10th!

Are you finding yourself singing the song

"We need a little Christmas {RIGHT this very minute!}"?

Well, I have just the rememdy and you will be in a

Christmas-y mood in no time flat.

The Christmas season holds a special kind of excitement and anticipation.It's spending time with family and close friends. and often, these Christmastime traditions are associated with cold weather and the fluffy white flakes that people experience in the North.
In Southern California, where the ground stays green, we find ways other than enjoying snow to make the Christmas experience something altogether memorable.

In my little part of the world there is an area that has become pretty famous for a few blocks that go all out with their Christmas decorations. It's in Alta Loma on Thoroughbred Street where decorating houses has become a tradition in this neighborhood and it draws people together to experience the festive spirit of Christmas, all without the white stuff.

Turning onto Thoroughbred Street any time between early December and Christmas is big pain in the derierre BUT sooooo worth it!
It has slowly evolved into an experience that is like stepping into a different world where Christmas spirit hangs in the air and where houses that line the street are carefully covered in shimmering lights and shiny bells, and where Christmas music plays around it all. The whole scene exudes the festive excitement of the holidays!

The story of the Thoroughbred Street neighborhood {at Christmas}...

Since 1986, decorating houses has become more and more of a Christmas tradition on Thoroughbred Street and now, nearly every house is completely covered in lights and decorations.

The tradition of decorating homes on Thoroughbred began as a competition between two neighbors to see who could put up the most lights, and slowly, over the years, the competition brought more lights that started to cover not only the front trees, but the entire house, all of the other trees, and sometimes even the grass. Soon more and more people in the neighborhood were becoming involved and those who didn’t decorate started to find signs in their front yards that said “scrooge.” Now, while it is not mandatory, and while it is not a competition of any sort, nearly every house in the neighborhood is elaborately arrayed with Christmas lights, Santa Clause figures, nutcrackers, elves, angels, wise men, snowmen and gingerbread men all which line the homes and streets for our viewing pleasure!

As it gets closer to Christmas, Thoroughbred Street becomes progressively swamped with cheerful viewers. Police have come on especially busy nights (and there were a couple cute ones checkin me out last night-haha) to direct traffic and to keep people moving through.
It was estimated that last year 15,000 people went through the street in a single night, and that it took cars an average of 4-5 hours to drive a car through the neighborhood!

Over the past 10 years we have made this a tradition for our family and we have seen the growth in numbers and the length of time it takes to drive thru the neighborhood. Last night it took us two hours! We started at 9:30 and didn't finish until 11:30. The three little ones fell asleep before we even got started. Aw.

Now, not only do you have the viewing pleasure of twinkling lights but your tastebuds can be tempted with many sweet treats while you walk or drive through the neighborhood. In their drive-ways,the neighbors have begun selling hot chocolate, churros, and homemade chocolate chip cookies. This year we even saw cupcakes, bbq and carmel apples. Oh! The commercial-ism!! Even NBC Los Angeles was in the 'hood last night.
Most drive-way's also have the glow of portable fire-pits keeping home owners warm and cozy while people watching.

Needless to say, your senses will be tickled in every way and we make it a tradition every year. And we definitely go more than once!

So for those who will be in California during Christmas and might be having a hard time getting into the Christmas spirit without snow, going to see the lights on Thoroughbred Street { Or one like it in your neck of the woods} might be exactly what you need. You won't be disapointed!

Enjoy the photos!!

Until next time.....

"Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful"

April's ++ FAVORITE THING'S++

2011-12-08T15:41:00.003-08:00

Hello! Hello!

Or maybe I should say, Ho! Ho! Ho! Right now?

I got the idea for my blog today from an annual Oprah event.

You know the one? The famous holiday show where she shares all of her

"favorite thing's" and then gives them to everyone in the audience?!

I love to give. I love to put a lot of thought into what I purchase someone.

I pay attention to what they say they like or wish they had. I am of the mindset

it is always better to give someone what they want or ask for instead of randomly

picking something out they might not use or like or possibly re-gift to someone else!!

It's the thought that count's BUT if you put absolute zero thought into

what you are giving someone, why bother?!

I love to give gifts that pamper and indulge—and make a person feel really special

So, below are a bunch of

April's "favorite thing's"

XOXO

iPhone

{This is an obvious one. The iphone has the funnest gadgets and covers too}

PINK perfume by Victoria's Secret

{My favorite perfume!}

SONOS wireless sounds system/player

{The coolest new *portable* stereo system for the home/office}

American Eagle

{I buy MOST of my clothes from this store. Great jeans!}

iPad

{This is just an awsome gadget. Computer and itouch in one. Considering I dont have a computer...}

Hollister

{Another place for great clothes}

UGG's

{The only boots I truly wear everyday. Like slippers, I tell ya}

Nirve bicycles

{ I seriously want a cute beach bike w/basket from this company}

Victoria's Secret make-up

{Love their make-up. Flirty and sexy fun}

FOSSIL

{They just seriously have some CUTE purses right now! Love this one.}

Gym membership

{I seriously love being in the gym. Working out is a must}

Cookies by design

{I give these sweet baskets to close friends and family all the time. THE BEST cookies!!!}

Victoria's Secret gift card

{ Do I really need to explain?}

Favorite salon gift cards

{This is the salon I go to for my hair. In Los Angeles. It's always nice to get gift cards for the salon}

Pottery Barn

{ I would decorate my entire home from this store if I could}

Jewelry- Hello Kitty- Bling

{ I am a girly girl. Hello Kitty is adorable and still "in". I have always loved this silouhette necklace}

V.S. Pink fuzzy hoodie

{On the V.S.2011 fashion show runway. So soft, warm and cozy!!}

Bath and Body works candles

{I always have one or three burning in the house. They smell scrumptious!}

Until next time.....

"A joy that is shared is a joy made double"

CHRISTmas

2011-12-04T19:36:00.001-08:00

I just enjoyed a wonderful Christmas devotional

and it got me wanting to post about the

TRUE meaning of CHRISTmas.

First, I thought about all of my family traditions.

My parents began many traditions that I have now

passed down to my children.

Decorating our tree's, Our fun shopping day to buy for one another,

receiving our very own Christmas ornaments each year,

Driving to see Christmas lights, Toy's for tot's, making Christmas cookies/candy

and watching all of our favorite Christmas movies.

I am sure most of you have similar traditions.

It's what makes the holiday magical!!

I LOVE seeing Christmas through my children's eyes.

But even with all of our traditions, we center it around Christ.

My little ones have a "Little People" manger scene.

They know that we celebrate and give because of BABY JESUS

and because of all the "gifts" that Jesus has given to us....

We need to give and love unconditionally too.

Second, I thought about one of the kid's favorite Christmas stories.

'The Grinch who stole Christmas"

My kid's love the Jim Carrey version(obviously WAY funnier)instead of the cartoon.

But in both versions...

The Grinch, that memorable character from the classic children’s story by Dr. Seuss, had a heart that “was two sizes too small,” and he hated everything about Christmas.

Through the course of the story, however, he undergoes a dramatic transformation when he learns that there is more to Christmas than decorations and gifts.

Grinch: They're finding out now that no Christmas is coming.

They're just waking up, I know just what they'll do.
Their mouths will hang open a minute or two,
Then the Whos down in Whoville will all cry, "Boo Hoo!"
That's a noise, (the Grinch said,) that I simply must hear!

Narrator: So he paused, And the Grinch put a hand to his ear.
And he did hear a sound rising over the snow.
It started in low.
Then it started to grow...
But the sound wasn't sad!
Why, this sound sounded glad!

[Whos singing]

Narrator: Every Who down in Who-ville, the tall and the small,
Was singing! Without any presents at all!
He HADN'T stopped Christmas from coming! IT CAME!
Somehow or other, it came just the same!
And the Grinch, with his Grinch-feet ice-cold in the snow, stood puzzling and puzzling:

Grinch: How could it be so?
It came without ribbons! It came without tags!
It came without packages boxes, or bags!

Narrator: And he puzzled and puzzled, till his puzzler was sore.
Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn't before!
"Maybe Christmas," he thought, "doesn't come from a store.
Maybe Christmas… perhaps… means a little bit more."

I love when the Whos gather around the tree, holding hands and sing that memorable song.

It didn't matter that their gift's,tree's and food had been taken. Nope.

They still had something The Grinch couldn't take away from them.

The Spirit of Christmas and each other.

If we look for what is wrong with the Christmas season, we can surely find it. Like the Grinch, we can grumble and complain, becoming cold and cynical about what we see around us. Nevertheless, if we look for the good, we can see this time of year with new eyes—perhaps even with the eyes of a child.

The Grinch saw the good in Christmas when he learned to look past its worldly trappings. If we do the same, we can, with the Grinch, proclaim: “Maybe Christmas . . . doesn’t come from a store. Maybe Christmas . . . perhaps . . . means a little bit more!”

Our heart may not grow three sizes as the Grinch’s did, but our heart will change. Our eyes will open to the miracles all around us—at Christmastime and throughout the year.

*****

This video below has been a favorite of mine since it's release. It actually reminds me of my Lunden.

Why you ask? I will tell you why.

For the longest time I had a porcelain manger scene.

She loved the little porcelain baby Jesus.

Instead of it lying next to Mary and Joseph Baby Jesus stayed safe in Lunden's room.

Usually in her little cupped hands or the little box she made for it.

She had that baby Jesus for the longest time and played with it even past the Christmas holiday.

My sweet girl.

{You'll need to stop my music below to listen to the video}

Until next time....

"The spirit of Christmas illuminates the picture window to the soul. To catch the real meaning of the spirit of Christmas, we need only drop the last syllable and it becomes....
The spirit of Christ"

Hello, December!!

2011-12-01T08:00:00.000-08:00

It's December, yay!

... 5 day's until my parent's 42nd Anniversary.

... 17 day's until we spend a delightfully festive day at Disneyland

{tradition for twin's birthday}

...19 day's until my twin's 17th birthday {eek!}

and

24 day's until Christmas day!

I LOVE this time of year!

Ok, so Lunden and I were in the Hallmark store and came upon these

adorable Christmas-y Santa hat's.

We just giggled and giggled.

Until next time...

"There is no tomorrow to remember if we don’t do something today"

Christmas is goin' to the dog's!

2011-11-30T10:53:00.001-08:00

Hi!

Can you believe it's the last day of November?!

My kid's already want it to be December 24th and I have

to remind them that we still need to do all of our christmas shopping

and they need to buy their presents for eachother. Lot's to do still!!

I want to enjoy this holiday season. Not rush through it. It goes by fast enough as it is.

So, I had Christmas music playing and this silly Christmas song

with Dog's barking "Jingle bells" started playing.

Baylee came in to the kitchen fascinated by the unfamiliar dog's

musical talent. Her reaction to the song was so cute.

Enjoy!

{You will need to scroll down and stop my Christmas music from playing}

Nirve

2011-11-28T21:18:00.001-08:00

Ok, so yeah I have a few thing's I would like

Santa to bring little 'ol me too.

Have you heard of Nirve bicycles out of Huntington Beach?

They are the most stylish beach bikes, ever. Yes, ever.

I want one of these beach bikes with a cute basket.

Then, ride the bike trails from Santa Monica to Venice.

Beach breeze blowing through my hair, sun on my skin....

ringing the little bell on my bike....ding! ding!ding! ding!

Yep, that is what I want.

When you get a chance...check 'em out.

Until next time....

"Hope is a good thing, maybe the best of things, and no good thing ever dies."

What are YOU thankful for??

2011-11-24T08:18:00.003-08:00

I am extremely thankful for so many things!

I am so lucky to have a wonderful,loving and supportive family and friends.

I am so thankful for my 5 children. They teach me so much everyday.

And although I dont enjoy times of struggle or stress

I am thankful for those times because they make me thankful for the awesome times.

Which far outweigh the not so great.

Right now, I am thankful for future possibilities.

Happy Thanksgiving to you all!

xoxo

{You'll need to stop my music below to hear this message}

                                                                        Until next time......
                                                           Silent gratitude isn't much use to anyone.
                                                  Take the time today to give thanks for your blessings!

I love my best friend

2011-11-18T23:36:00.001-08:00

Hi!

I just got back from seeing the newest "Twilight" movie.....

'Breaking Dawn'

with my bestest friend.

I love that I get to be mom and friend to my daughter.

We love hanging together. Talking. Just doing stuff.

And she knows just when I need a hug!

I'm looking forward to spending one on one time together this {holiday} week.

I know most kid's don't typically want to spend time with their parents...

I love that Lunden does. I was the same way with my mom.

Thanks for spending the day with me Lunden.

And for explaining some of the

movie to me! :)

I love you!!!

Until next time...

“No measure of time with you will be long enough. But we’ll start with forever.”

Random November snapshots

2011-11-14T11:30:00.001-08:00

Well, it's mid November....

Where has this month gone?

There is never a dull moment here at our home so

I just thought I would post some photos

of our goings on the past couple of weeks.

This is the last full week of school before the kid's are out for....

THANKSGIVING!

I can't believe the holiday's are upon us.

Christmas music & Christmas lists for Santa

are already in full mode here.

Thing's will get busy and I have so much going on

but I will try and be good about posting.

Don't forget to leave comments below.

I love knowing you visit!

{Miss Emersyn May}

{Now, thats a happy/content face from my baby girl}

{Smiley faces}

{my girls- coloring}

{Fun with my phone..Lunden coloring}

[No school today!}

{ Lunden and her man #55}

{My Hello Kitty girls}

{Playing- Victoria Gardens}

{Tree is already up @ Victoria Gardens}

{Whee! Victoria Gardens}

{Logan wanted this hat so bad}

Until next time....

My thought for the day:

"You should lower your expectations of other people

and raise them for yourself"

Homecoming 2011

2011-11-08T22:34:00.000-08:00

Yup, it's me again.....

I've got so much on my plate right now so bare with me if

I don't update as much as I would like right now.

I just had to post the photos of Lunden's dress for Homecoming

as well as photos of that night.

So much fun!

Ok, so here we go....

These few photos are actually from Halloween night.

My sister and nephews came up and we took some

just-for-the-heck-of-it photos.

Lunden wore her homecoming dress this night for a little while

but she didn't want to post these

photos until after homecoming.

Yes, the dress was top secret!

{Lunden and her cousin Hunter|

{Silly cousins}

******************

Ok, so these next couple of photos are

of Lunden getting dolled up.

I took Lunden to our salon to

get "rock star" nails done. All sparkly & glittery.

While she was getting her nails done the girl doing her nails

was talking to the make-up artist for the salon and asked

if she had time to do Lunden's make-up for homecoming.

Free! Complimentary! So sweet!

It was a lot of fun watching Lunden get all glam!

She literally looked like a model. Actually, she looked like a mermaid

with her long blonde hair and the blue's that the artist used on her eyes.

***************

The homecoming theme:

Boardwalk

Lunden looked stunning and although I am a wee bit biased...

Lunden and Steve were the cutest couple in the bunch.

Lunden's dress was multi-colored blues. Simply stunning.

Perfect for the homecoming theme.She knew exactly what dressed she wanted

and went on the hunt for it. Found it online and...

Grandma was more than thrilled to buy it for her "Twinkle"

This was Lunden's first homecoming dance

And unlike Prom last year, she actually recieved

a wrist corsage from Steve. Way to go Steve! You done good.

I thought I would add a few photos of the kid's before the dance.

It was so much fun getting Lunden ready for this special moment.

Enjoy the photos!

{Steve & Lunden}

Lunden and I giggled because I had to help pin the flower to

Steves shirt. Just as I did on her date for prom last year.

Those suckers are hard to pin on!

{My Lunden. Stop growing up!}

{Freezing outside}

{Lido, Steve and Ellis}

{The girl's}

Until next time....

Be the reason behind someone's smile!

It's funny how something can spark up nostalgia

2011-11-02T20:25:00.007-07:00

Well, HELLO November!

Hi, it's me again!

Ok, bare with me.....

I am taking this blog back a few years.

Let's say...23 years to be exact.

Nostalgia kicked in today with this photo in Venice, Italy.....

{Mitch, Randy, me, Christy-my sister & Robin}

First, I have to mention that I lived in Vicenza, Italy

with my family from 1986-88.

My father was military so we were stationed at Caserma Ederle, Italy.

An amazing experience.

No move is easy, especially being a teenager with friends and boyfriends BUT

this move probably proved to provide me with the most abundant group of amazing people.

Life long friends that I continue to keep in touch with to this day.

I've tried teaching my children that although moving can be hard and change isn't always fun...

there are reasons our paths take us different places.

There are lessons to learn and people to meet, help and learn from on this journey called, life.

Sometimes, we are even put in other's paths so they can help us as well.

Ok, so back to the photo...

My wonderfully dear friend Randy AKA" El Hano"( Also in this photo)
had this photo up in one of his facebook albums.

I have quite a few photos from this particular adventure in Venice, Italy

but not this one. I was so excited to see it!

Just a little side note/story:

Randy... was my first true boyfriend in High School.

Although, he wasn't in High School. He was in the military.

Just two years older than me and he was the cute M.P.

who checked both military and civilians through gates on post.

He would flirt with me and stop our car every time we came on post just so he could say "hi".

I think we even made him plates of cookies and hand delivered them to his gate.

For a year we flirted and he finally asked me out in a small grocery store on post.
I said "yes".

I would get sweet cards and love letters from him while he worked his station during the middle of the night. Sometimes, the letter was on lined paper. Other times it was just on scrap paper but each letter was wonderfully sweet and loving and romantic. I still have those! I have more memories of being in his silly beat up car. We drove everywhere. If you read his BLOG he describes his car and the passenger seat that was a death trap. It was.
And of course we shared this amazing day trip to Venice.

My family and I left Italy in May of '88 and he did not come bid farewell to me. That hurt a little. Obviously, we did lose touch. It would have been so nice to have had internet, cell phones way back when. Over the years I wondered about Randy. Later, he told me he tried locating me and even sent numerous letters to addresses he thought I was at. Never got them. It's funny how things don't turn out sometimes. It has been wonderful to catch up with him and talk about old times.

{Robin, Christy and Me}

I have been nostalgic lately.
I think most of it stems from watching my daughter go through all of these wonderful and exciting adventures of her own and remembering all of the good times I had at her age as well.

***

I am so blessed to have met and known these wonderful people I call friends. We meet for a reason.

Sometimes, we aren't sure why we meet the people we do in our lives.
Sometimes, its to learn a lesson. Sometimes its to teach us a lesson. Sometimes, its to fall in love. Sometimes, its to create friendships that will never end.

I do believe we are pre-destined to meet everyone we come in contact with along lifes journey.

I am greatful to my dad/the military for moving us so much.
For if we hadn't, I wouldn't have had such amazing experiences and friendships and yes...
even love come into and out of my life.
Not just while living in Italy but my many other moves and people that I have met in my life

AND

Continue to meet to this very day!

I hope you don't mind but I wanted to share a few more photos of my past.

Hope you enjoy them

I was a cheerleader for Vicenza American High school in Italy. I was always very shy and this really helped me snap out of my shy mode.

Some of the best times.

I am the one on the far right

El Paso, Texas
1988-89
Homecoming

I have been thinking of my own high school experiences lately

as I have enjoyed watching my daughter Lunden experience her homecoming game,first real boyfriend and upcoming homecoming dance. These are moments that you never forget.
And more than likely will be people she will always have in her life from this moment on.

So, I am the one in the far right of this photo (above).

I was Senior homecoming Princess. Can I just say that this experience was a blast!
Sitting on the back of a convertable during the homecoming game waving to everyone, walking with my dad as I am introduced onto the field at the homecoming game.
Just very special moments to me.
Ok, more about El Paso below.......

El Paso, Texas

Senior Prom 1988

(Pardon the dress. I don't know what I was thinking.)

After leaving Italy we moved to El Paso, Texas for my senior year.

I really had to dig deep to find thing's to be greatful for when we moved there.

1. My family was together

2. We were healthy

3. I had made two friends that year:

Shannon and Santos

Shannon

Was and still is my best friend.We don't get to see one another often but we talk often.

She and I had some amazing fun. UTEP games/football players,

sleep-overs, trips to the mall.Swiss cake rolls. haha
Girl stuff.
She is an amazing friend to this day and I love her, my sorella, with all of my heart.

Santos

We met on the bus. A silly school bus.

I didn't have my drivers license yet.
In Italy you can't drive until you are 18 so I was taking the bus until I took drivers Ed classes,etc.
It's so amazing to me how thing's work out and if we both hadn't had to ride the bus....
would we have met?

I don't remember if he asked me to sit with him or I had to because there wasn't room elsewhere.
All I know is Santos and I sat together on the bus, together from then on.

We talked about our day, life and shared similar interests.
He rode the bus to my bus stop which was on the military post where our housing was.
He would walk me home and while we walked,
we talked more and more.
I didn't realize it but he worked at the teen center as a DJ just down the road from our house.
The teen center is where we got to know eachother more.
I watched him D.J, he would get a slow song going and then come slow dance with me,
we just loved hanging out together.

Well, we were watching the Super bowl game (1989) as he sat in an over sized leather chair he asked,

" I bet you won't come over here and kiss me"....
Well, I did, and the rest is history.

We spent senior year in love. The most love I had ever been in.
We were joined at the hip. If we weren't at his house he was at mine.
I went with him to different D.J. gigs. We went to a Bon Jovi concert.We went to the mountains with his family. He taught me how to make taquitos. YUM!
After graduation my family was transfered to San Antonio, Texas. My heart was so sad. I didn't want to leave this amazing relationship. It broke my heart. I had to say goodbye.

I gave my heart away that year. I don't think I ever really got it back.

. Just one more special memory of someone I know I was meant to meet and have in my life.

We were high school sweethearts and probably the one man
I thought I would be with after high school.
Life took us different directions all those years ago.
It would be 21 years before we spoke again.
When we finally spoke it was as if the years had never parted us.

It's funny how thing's work out and.....
It's funny how sometimes they don't.
I am proud of his accomplishments and what he does to serve his community.

Summer 1988

El Paso, Texas

Me and my summer posse. We did everything together. The pool, dinner out, water parks,etc.

Can you believe I haven't found them on facebook yet? Where are you guys??!

Well, I must say-

It's funny how a photo and watching my daughter go through similar experiences

could spark up nostalgia so greatly in me.

Thanks for taking this journey with me today.

Until next time....

Bloom where you are planted AND don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.

If you don't, you could miss out on some pretty amazing people and experiences!

HALLOWEEN 2011

2011-11-01T08:48:00.000-07:00

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

We had a fun Halloween day/night.

I took the girl's out to lunch at El Tio Pepe's

( I LOVE my Mondays with both of my girl's all to myself!!!)

We finished up some Halloween shopping

and actually enjoyed a relaxing day at home listening to both

Halloween and Christmas music on Pandora.

I know, Christmas music. Crazy,right?

Anyways, enjoy the photos.

I LOVE taking pictures!!

{Miss Emersyn Mae in her daytime Halloween outfit}

{Princess Belle-the Christmas gown}

{Carsen AKA Harry Potter}

{Logan AKA Vampire}

Lunden and I had a blast applying his make-up!

{Ready to go Trick-or-Treating!}

Lunden dressed up as a vampire but..her vampire teeth wouldnt stick

so I don't think we actually got a photo of her in her "costume".I do have some adorable

photos of her with her cousin but she's in her homecoming dress and I can't share those

photos until after next weekend.

Hint:Her dress is amazing!

{My nephew Hunter}

{Carsen and Logan}

{Carsen and Canyon}

I hope everyone enjoyed their Halloween as well

and that the kid's all got tons of candy!

Happy sugar rush to all!

Until next time...

Be good to one another.

'Twas the Night Before Halloween!

2011-10-30T18:29:00.002-07:00

{Yes, this is me..spooky eh?}

"Twas the night before Halloween, and all through the house,
All the creatures were stirring, except for the mouse.
The monsters had gathered to plan and prepare,
For the trick-or-treaters who soon would be there...."

{Yucky!}

PUMPKIN GUTS!

{Double YUCK}

{Emmy and her pumpkin}

{"Harry" and his Harry Potter pumpkin}

{Logan's Vampire Pumpkin}

{Lunden's winkin' pumpkin}

{Cast that spell "Harry"}

{A-DOR-A-BLE}

{Random cuteness}

{Can't get enough of her}

Have a Happy and Safe Halloween everyone!!!!

Until next time.....

Be scary (and sweet) to each other!

TRADITION!

2011-10-25T00:04:00.001-07:00

Hi...It's me again.

This is probably the funnest part of the Halloween/fall harvest season for me-

THE PUMPKIN PATCH!

We have been going to this particular patch off and on for

about 12 years. Tradition!

The kid's love picking their pumpkins, riding the little "train", and I love all the wonderful

photo opportunities.

Enjoy all the pictures!

{My babies}

{Cinderella pumpkins}

{My sweet girls}

{Listening to "Farmer Ted"go on and on}

{Mine and Lunden's view}

{Emmy picked out her Cinderella pumpkin}

{funky gourd}

{Our pumpkins}

{"Farmer Ted"giving us a lesson during the train ride}

{Me and my shadow}

Until next time.....

Be sweet!

Big Bear in the Fall

2011-10-05T09:57:00.002-07:00

Hi! It's me again....

Well, October is here and she came in letting everyone KNOW she had arrived!

It is windy and chilly and rainy and....

I LOVE IT!

Have I mentioned that Fall is my most favorite season? Yep, well, it is!

So, we went to Big Bear lake/mountain last weekend.

If you know me, then you know I love taking pictures.

Especially of my babies.

Which means, there are never any photos of me which I am typically fine with

BUT my daughter is an excellent photographer and she snapped a few of me too.

The only reason I mention it is the shear fact that everyone asks where I am in photos.

lol

So, enjoy the large quantity of photos that I took and therefore decided to share with y'all!

I asked the kid's to "make a silly face" and this is what I got. LOVE IT!

Miss Emersyn Mae in her coonskin cap

The prettiest squaw I have ever seen!

Tree Huggers!

Leaf throwing is so much fun!

My Carsen

Lovin' on the rather large Teddy

Logan in a skunk-skin cap? Stinky!

My babies developed the love of

mint chocolate chip ice cream

like their mommy.

Can we take him home?

Gorgeous girl inside and out

Give kids leaves and they are content.

Maybe they should package

and sell these for Christmas?

Such a girl. Loves to pose.

Emmy loves when Lunden holds her upside down

I just love everything about this picture!

Emmy picked up this feather and it went there.

Shake your tail feather, Em!

This photo is hilarious

Me and my baby girl

FAMILY!

My 4(out of 5) and my nephews

Just before her cartwheel lol

LOVE!

Just a bunch of great kids!

Until next time...

Be good to one another!

Wake me when September ends....

2011-09-28T14:09:00.005-07:00

Hi!

So, it's Fall. Autumn. Harvest. It's my most favorite season.

Although, we do not live on the east coast anymore and cannot enjoy the beauty of the leaves changing....which was my most favorite thing...

I am still trying to bring Fall and now Halloween into the home. The smell of spice and pumpkin candles fills the air.

Candy jars filled with candy corn and those cute little pumpkin candies are already tempting my little ones.

The kid's are forever changing their minds about what they want to be for halloween.

The thoughts of homemade soups and bread and pumpkin chocolate chip cookies start my grocery list in a different direction now. Warm and cozy foods.

Just wake me when September ends. It's such a long month.

HAPPY FALL!

So, I thought I would just add a few photos of the kid's and our happenings...

{4 of my 5 babies @ Disneyland...Missed you Brennen!}

{Random pic...I want this trench from AE and shoes lol}

{My girlies..getting ready to bake cookies}

{nothing says Halloween like Target}

{My sweet babies}

{Little Miss Priss}

{Emmy-D-land}

{G-kid's looove t heir Gpaw}

{Miss Emersyn}

{My little model}

{Logan and Brinkley}

{Showin the love at the football game}

{sissy did my make-up}

Until next time....

Be kind to one another!

crazy,sweet kid's!

2011-09-08T15:50:00.000-07:00

So, yeah, I am still trying to figure out what the deal is with my blog. It's not centered.

So, I am going to keep blogging regardless and try to figure it out along the way.

Just a few random pics of all my kiddos.

UNDERCONSTRUCTION

2011-09-01T09:03:00.001-07:00

Ok, my blog is being weird and isnt centered.

Gotta figure it out and get back to blogging regularly

be patient....

Enjoy the holiday weekend!

2011-08-05T18:01:00.002-07:00

Well, I guess it's been awhile since I posted anything...I'm so ashamed! So unlike me!

This is my sad attempt to share what we have been up to since moving back to California.

I still need to add dialogue and many more photos but this is good for now, right?

Hope everyone is enjoying their summer!

{Trip into L.A.}

{Just sitting in the car snapping pics with my itouch}

{Pool day/Curly hair day}

{my babies: Griffith park observatory}

{Got twins? Being silly with a sign at observatory}

{My girls! Overlooking Los Angeles at Observatory}

{They just HAD to take a picture of this sign. Silly twins}

{Lunden and Carsen: Dang Carsen!}

{My Lunden: Griffith park observatory}

{Logan: Spring Valley Lake pre 4th of July festivities}

{My Brennen: SMILE!}

{Emmy with Brinkley- our new kitty}

{Lunden and Logan: one of many swimming days}

{trying out a "prop"-headband}

{Lunden,April & Christy}

{Miss Emersyn Mae: Sea World}

{Brennens sense of humor shining through lol}

{My twinners: Downtown Disney with mom. Just the three of us}

Water bugs

2011-06-10T15:26:00.000-07:00

One more trip to Soluda Shoals was in order...

especially with the heat we have been having!

Itouch pictures

2011-06-07T20:12:00.001-07:00

So, I just got a new itouch for Mother's day. I LOVE IT!

I just had to share some photos (of me) that I took with it the past week or so.

I think I may need to get the iphone eventually.

This thing is my "baby".

lol

I promise to get back to posting more updates/photos of my babies soon.

Oh, hey...Did I mention we only have 4 more days and then we move back to California?

Yup!

P.S. For those of you LDS friends....

don't go all psycho and judgemental because you see me wearing a black bathing suit cover up.

My June bugs

2011-06-05T16:01:00.001-07:00

June has been so busy already!

Between final days of school, end of year parties, and getting together with

friends from church and the community I have been packing like crazy for our trek west.

Considering the fact that we were supposed to be in California already, I am actually glad I have had a little bit more time to pack and prepare.

The kid's all got to finish the school year as well so that was great.

This is our final week in South Carolina.

I must say that I am not that sad about it. Is that bad?

I know that is sad to say but the last 4 years has been crazy. Very crazy.

The kids and I are very greatful for the opportunity to move back out west. We will be closer to family and friends in California and surrounding states.

I am taking things one day at a time. And I do know that what is meant to be, will be. No matter where I am. I know that opportunity does exist in different places.

In the meantime, California will take care of the six of us..

I just thought I would share some photos of my most favorite people, ever!

{Miss Emersyn Mae}

{ Brennen-Last day of school}

{ Lunden and Brennen- friend's pool party}

{ Brennen & Lunden- going away party at church}

{ Logan and Carsen-Final walk down the hall of LMES}

{Carsen and Logan-Last day of school}

{Carsen- Last day of school party}

{Lunden- all thug-like}

{Lunden- Isle of Palms, S.C.}

{Lunden- @ graduation party for a friend}

{Marissa & Lunden- One of many sleep-overs}

{ Carsen & Logan- Last day of school. Bye LMES!}

{Logan- Last day of school party}

Be on the look out for more photos of our final days here in S.C.. Gotta snap photos of the things/people/places we will definitely miss.

(I think that will be a short blog. LOL)

Memorial Day

2011-05-30T14:02:00.001-07:00

"A hero is someone who has given his or her life to something bigger than oneself."

~Joseph Campbell

{scroll down and turn off my music so you can hear this song}

P.S.

I am going to try and be better about updating this thing. Especially in the last two weeks before we move.

Keep checking back!

My little fairy

2011-04-18T14:16:00.000-07:00

Spread your wings and let the fairy in you fly!

{I snapped this of Emmy the other day. I love this top}

Prom 2011

2011-04-17T22:44:00.001-07:00

Ok, seriously? Am I really old enough to have kid's attending prom?

This is truly bittersweet for me.

I am enjoying every moment of my kid's growing up but it means one step closer to leaving home.

Can time just stop? I'd even settle for a slow down.

I'm realizing it's just not gonna happen.

So, Prom was this weekend and I had so much fun helping the kid's get ready for it.

Shopping for a prom dress (at a bridal store) really got to me. Lunden looked so

gorgeous in every dress she tried on. I got a slight glimpse of what it will

be like when we shop for wedding gowns. Lord help me!

Brennen's date was Heidi. She was late so she missed being part of most of the photo shoot.

Lunden went with Elliot. They had actually never met until this night.

For it being a "blind date" they hit it off.

If you are wondering why his arm is in the sling...

he plays rugby and was injured.

I thought I would share a few photos....Enjoy!

{the wonder twins}

{Brandon,Tyler, Brennen and Elliot}

{Got twins?}

{the group}

{Heidi and Brennen}

{I love when y'all look like you like eachother!}

{I think I captured excitement here.Her date behind her}

{Belle of the ball}

{A bad attempt at "goofy faces}

{The two hottest couples of the night}

{Elliot and Lunden}

Until next time......

My senses come alive

2011-03-03T11:18:00.001-08:00

It must be Spring!

My senses completely come alive when I look at this photo.

I feel the sun on my face, the smell of freshly cut grass,

The FEEL of soft, grass that has been warmed by the sun.

The crack of a bat, crowds cheering.

Oh, how I wish I was at spring training ...Just one game.....or two!

The kid's would love it.

I would be taking plenty of pictures. Just like this one.

Maybe next year.

There is only one YOU!

2011-02-25T10:53:00.000-08:00

Logan we love you so much!

You are a breath of heaven.

You are sweet and gentle.

You are loving and kind.

You love to dress like your big brother.

You love to dress up in costumes and pretend.

You love to whistle ( non stop).

You love baseball!

You make everyone laugh.

You are a very good artist and incredible at reading already.

There is only one YOU and I'm so glad you're mine!

Happy Birthday week/end!

Muah!

I had so much fun going through pictures of Logan....

I had to share a bunch!

In no particular order.....

enjoy!

2011-02-22T11:29:00.000-08:00

2011-02-16T13:58:00.002-08:00

Maybe you're not seein', the side of me you should.

I'm a big pile of love 2day!

2011-02-14T05:32:00.001-08:00

First, I had to say "thank you" to the loves in my life who have made Valentine's day special for the kid's and I.
Chocolate covered strawberries delivered.
See's candy delivered.
Gift card's to go out and eat.
Ya'll are precious to me and completely wonderful!!
Love to my loves!

In honor of Valentine's day....

A poem....

Who are you?

And what have you done with the old me?

What have you done with my heart?

I don’t even recognize me anymore.

What kind of Love is this?

At one point, I thought it was that fly by night,

it was fun while it lasted type of love.

But everyday my heart is awakened by some different type of love.

Every day, everything I thought I knew is made different.

This isn’t just a part-time type of love.

This is that…

that…”when you leave the room, you take my smile with you” type of love.

That…”when you close your eyes, the sun sets”…

that…”even just a whisper from your lips shakes the foundation of the Earth”

type of love.

This is a supernatural type of love.

The type of love that could only be conceived in the mind of a higher power.

That Esphesians chapter 5 type of love.

Two bodies and one soul.

Yeah. This is that type of love.

That “give me your hand, and I’ll give you my heart” love.

That “everyday, I say ‘I Do’” love.

That “I was nothing until I was yours” love.

Baby…this is that “you don’t only finish my sentences, you complete my spirit” type of love.

We got that “every day is Christmas and every night is Valentine’s” love.

That “when I look into your eyes, I see the greatest love poem ever written” love.

Damn!

What is this?

Where did it come from?

How did it take so much control

of so much of my soul?

I believe it started with a kiss.

3

2011-01-27T12:57:00.001-08:00

My baby girl turned 3 on January 17th.....

She is "the boss"

Logan and Carsen's "best friend"

and

you can find her singing from sun up to sun down.

I love this little girl with all my heart!

Until next time......

First snowfall of the year

2011-01-11T19:48:00.000-08:00

We actually had snow on Christmas day while visiting my parents in West Virginia but it didn't stick.

So, the sled and snow pants that were bought didn't get used.

We haven't even been home a week....

And the news talked about this impending storm heading out way.

On Monday morning we woke up to about 3 inches of snow and by the time it was over we had a total of about 6 inches!

The kid's wasted no time getting all their snow gear on and heading out to play!

While we were outside the snow started to turn over to ice. So, we ended up rather wet.

This snow/ice storm has kept all of the kids out of school. Tomorrow will be the 3rd day of no school.

The roads have been very icy and dangerous and the city has basically shut down.

I am enjoying having all my babies home with me, getting all the Christmas decor down and making chocolate chip cookies!

Sleeping in has been a bonus too!

Sweet 16

2010-12-19T21:59:00.000-08:00

Where does the time go??

I think I have been saying that alot lately!

My twinners are officially 16 years.

Well, technically, they aren't 16 until it is

6:50 and 6:53 am Mountain standard time.

Induced at 40 weeks...15 hours of labor....

normal delivery ( not c-section)...

Lunden comes out a 7 pound 2 ounce little girl and

Brennen, who is breech comes out FEET first. Weighing in at 6 pounds 14 ounces.

I have been SO blessed having these two in my life!!

I just wanted to add some photos from the past..I need to get some baby photos up.

Digital wasn't really the thing back then. Makes it harder.

I love you both so much!!!

Happy Birthday!!

December makes me feel this way...

2010-12-11T05:44:00.000-08:00

I can honestly say I am ready for the Christmas/winter break. No school.

Did I really just say that?

We are heading north next weekend to spend Christmas and New Years with my parents in West Virginia/D.C./ N.Y.C.

We are looking forward to the seeing all of the holiday decorations/ Christmas tree at Rockefeller center/ decorated store windows and doing some shopping!

Seeing the White House decorated for the holidays is always a treat as well.

Many fun holiday traditions are to be expected too...

the kid's decorating a gingerbread house with Grandma, making sugar cookies for Santa, Christmas shopping for eachother and meeting somewhere special/fun for lunch and going to see Christmas lights.

There is also a better chance for a white Christmas up there than there is down here!

Also, my twins will be turning 16 on the 20th!

So,birthday fun is in store!

I just wanted to update and share some random photos from this month so far...

It's Christmas time!

2010-12-03T12:36:00.000-08:00

I love decorating my home for Christmas.

I'm one of those that has a tree in just about every room.

Each with a different theme.

Even my kid's all have a Christmas tree in their room.

Merry Christmas!

{Front door twinkles with red and white lights}

My Mom has been gifting me with White House Christmas ornaments for years.

I literally have a whole tree full which is why I dedicate one tree just for them.

They are so gorgeous and the details are amazing.

I can't wait to see what this years ornament looks like!

{A couple of the White House ornaments}

This is the tree Santa leaves presents under. It's my country/crafty tree.

Lot's of wooden ornaments like ice skates, snowflakes, ski's,etc.

{Just a wide view of my family room}

{ Kid's "sweet" tree. Full of color and treats!}

{Some of the sweet ornaments}

{I love this little penguin}

My mantle full of fun Christmas-y things.

I love our Pottery Barn stockings.

It's begining to l@@k alot like Christmas!

2010-11-27T13:53:00.001-08:00

I finished all of my Christmas decorating.....

I think my home looks way better decorated for Christmas

than it does any other time of the year!

More pictures soon...

Thanksgiving weekend.......

2010-11-27T04:53:00.001-08:00

It's been a pretty low key Thanksgiving...for obvious reasons.

I have really missed being around family/loved ones.

I'm thankful for my parents!

When the times get tough, and you hope that people can be dependable...

and loving... and reach out....to a mom with 5 children during the holidays....

Well, I can always count on MY parents!

I did make my first ever pumpkin pies this year. Can you believe?

We were always at someone elses home for turkey day.

They actually turned out quite delicious if I do say so myself.

We also went to the Saluda Shoals holiday lights. It's become a tradition.

I know we will probably go back 3 more times before the Christmas season is over.

We always do. The kid's love it!

I hope this finds everyone enjoying good food, a home filled with loved ones and maybe even some good deals while out shopping!

I just love taking pictures of my kid's!

2010-11-08T18:42:00.002-08:00

Just a few more photos I wanted to share from our fun photo shoot at the park....

I absolutley love taking pictures!

Party Of Six

Truer words were never spoken

Boooooing!

#4

I {HEART} S.D.

A house is not a home until it has a dog.

Word of the year

Today is a gift. That is why it is called the present*+*+*

365 days ahead

Two thumbs up!

Christmas festivities

17

The icing on the cake

All is Merry & Bright

April's *+*+ FAVORITE THING'S+*+*

CHRISTmas

Hello, December!!

Christmas is goin' to the dog's!

Nirve

What are YOU thankful for??

I love my best friend

Random November snapshots

Homecoming 2011

It's funny how something can spark up nostalgia

HALLOWEEN 2011

'Twas the Night Before Halloween!

TRADITION!

Big Bear in the Fall

Wake me when September ends....

crazy,sweet kid's!

UNDERCONSTRUCTION

Water bugs

Itouch pictures

My June bugs

Memorial Day

My little fairy

Prom 2011

My senses come alive

There is only one YOU!

I'm a big pile of love 2day!

3

First snowfall of the year

Sweet 16

December makes me feel this way...

It's Christmas time!

It's begining to l@@k alot like Christmas!

Thanksgiving weekend.......

I just love taking pictures of my kid's!

Today is a gift. That is why it is called the present++*

April's ++ FAVORITE THING'S++