Sweet November

First...

2012-01-21T20:57:00.000-08:00

I know I'm so behind on our holiday posts but I figured I might as well have one in a timely manner since it's so brief. Today was a day of firsts...

First snow of the year

Maggie's first snow EVER

Our first snow as a family

Coming soon, like any day, is our first tooth. And in just over 3 short months it will be someone's first Birthday! < Insert small tear hear >

Thought I'd get one of me and the kiddos to prove they do in fact have a mother! And for those wondering, the boy is saying "sm-ILLLEE".

Trestle Table: Reveal

2012-01-09T16:10:00.000-08:00

I must say it will be much harder to let go if this project. Hope you all like it. I sure do, you temptress you!

Before...

After...

8 months with Maggie

2012-01-05T20:05:00.000-08:00

(I know this may not be the best photo technically but this is what I see when I think of my little girl)

I can't believe it. Margaret your life thus far has been nothing more than the quickest fleeting moments than I've ever experienced. So much happened at the time of your arrival and since you've joined our family. But you roll with the punches and are always down for a laugh.

You love to eat (understatement), love to cuddle and be held (understatement) and dislike being caged in the hamper by your brother (understatement). Bath time is your best friend and bed time your foe. You still refuse to sleep through the night but we figure it's that indescribable need and love for nourishment that causes the trouble.

You are adorable. Most people say they've never seen you cry or fuss. Except me of course. You wine and crawl after me around the house all day muttering "Ama", "Mama", "Meh"and "Neeehhhh". The last one being more of a grunt and is a signal for the need to refuel. You have the most stinky little diapers I've ever smelled (again understatement) and you wiggle like a mexican jumping bean each time I try to change you.

No one can make you laugh or snort (fact) like your daddy. I've tried but I get funny grunts. You even find your brother far more amusing than me and could laugh at him all day (until the hamper comes about). And although you eat anything you can get despite the fact that you still haven't broken a tooth, share a room in the big kids bedroom as of 3 weeks ago and have begun to walk (12.31.11 first step), you are most definitely still my baby girl.

Trestle Farm Table

2011-12-21T08:19:00.000-08:00

WIth my little desk gone it's time to move onto the next project in the garage. I've been so excited about this one and I'm worried I might be tempted to keep it when it's all done. I scored this awesme Trestle Table a couple weeks ago and am wondering what color to paint it.

I'm leaning towards Cream or a Dark Red like the benches I recently did in October. But the top will be stained and possibly the benches too?

What do you think? Take the poll on the top right column above the " HIM AND HER" photo and pick a color. And should i stain the benches too? Let's see if this beauty can be finished by the New Year so I can get started on "The Beast".

"Officially" Announcing Maggie

2011-12-19T20:08:00.000-08:00

I promise I had an announcement picked out for our darling baby girl before she was born. But with moving cross country and and everything else that happens following large moves and birth, well it didn't happen. In fact I flat out forgot for the longest time until I was thinking about CHristmas cards. This is sounding a lot like our son's birth announcement. So without further adieu here is "THE" "official" announcement for the birth of our sweet little girl (after many drafts). And yes I'm aware I did a double quotation mark.

And for those family member who are heart broken you don't have this as a hard copy I'm sorry. But just get it printed on a 4x6 in a Matt finish and pretend we mailed it to you 6 months ago! Maybe on baby #3 we'll do better.

Sorry Maggie! But we promise we were too busy giving you all our love!
Photographed by the talented Kimber Hansen

Merry Christmas

2011-12-19T18:51:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year yet again. When your wallet seems to burn a hole in your pocket, sales are plentiful and time is low. So we decided to shake thing up a bit around here. In loo of gifts we are giving you all our love. Instead of having a bottomless pocket we're sending our greeting via email since snail-mail cost a pretty penny. And with every free second we have, we've decided to make it count and make new family memories.

So this year instead of wanting more, lets be grateful for all that we have. Instead of trying to think of the perfect gift to buy, remember the amazing gift you've been given. From our home to yours...

Merry Christmas and have a wonderful New Year!

P.S: Is anyone else having a difficult time distinguishing the punctuation from the letters in this font style? It's kid of driving me nuts these days. But it's so fun! :o)

Shabby Apple!

2011-12-17T19:41:00.000-08:00

Not to be confused with the totally great line of clothing, but this Shabby apple was my latest job. She was a well built little secretary desk from the early 1900's and had an adorable scalloped edge and cute front feet. She was simple but well worn. So after some sanding, major cleaning and repairs to strengthen her joints this beauty got a nice coat of a candy apple green with a dark semi solid stained top, antique finish and crystal knobs.

She's a total girl. I mean, she was great all natural, but she is a total babe with her make-up and jewelry on! So enjoy your new home little lady with Mommy Rose. You'll be the talk of the town. And as one friend mentioned, it is hard to say good bye to these cute pieces. They're like children. All this hard work and then they just up and leave you! :o)

Next project, barn style dining room set. I'll be posting a before photo soon and be taking a poll for a color choice!

Update: I almost forgot the before photo!

Happy Belated Thanksgiving!

2011-12-17T19:31:00.000-08:00

Yes I'm perfectly aware that Thanksgiving was like 3 weeks ago. But at least this way my post wouldn't get lost amidst all the other Turkey posts. So here was my scrumptious Turkey...

Wait a second. Yup, that's pretty much the entire documentation of the days events. But that about sums it up doesn't it? But it was great. A wonderful and simple dinner spent with our great friends the Mays with great food and children running amuck. A definite repeat formula for Christmas. I promise I'll take more photos next time.

Reveal: Baby K

2011-12-17T19:27:00.000-08:00

Remeber my post about a baby surprise? Well that surprise was for adorable little Baby Kiel!

A really close friend of mine recently gave birth, 3 weeks early, all natural, in her apartment while our friend and her neighbor (who is thankfully a med student) delivered the baby. Nope, that wasn't the plan. But little K.O, as I like to call him, obviously wanted to leave his mark in the world with a awesome birth story! Anyhow, I'm so sad not to be near closer while my friend finished her pregnancy but I had to make the little guy something sweet. And I wanted to to reflect a style that I thought would compliment both Mommy and Daddy. This is what I came up with...

Inspired by the He's All Boy quilt from This Mamma Makes Stuff I came up with my own version using some scraps, old shirts and an adorable gray dot fabric that I just love for a boy or girl. And I must say it came out just the way I hoped!

So hopefully as this cute little mister takes his walks around the lake with Mom, Dad and Big Brother, he's be toasty and farm beneath this little "All Man" quilt knowing that he's "Auntie" Angel loves him dearly! Now with any luck I'm be able to pump out some matching shoes and hat for him before it gets too cold. This kid is going to be dapper!

Too cute

2011-11-26T11:57:00.001-08:00

Fact.

Baby Surprise

2011-11-26T11:53:00.001-08:00

What do you get when you recycle an old button up shirt, some minky scraps, polka dot fabric, a thrift store flat sheet and some terry cloth? I guess you'll have to wait and see.

Italiano: Meatballs

2011-11-26T11:50:00.001-08:00

After 4 years of embarrassment from my first attempt at meatballs I decided to try again. Can I just say, success! They were not to beefy or heavy. They were very flavorful and moist. ANd they complimented the sauce which was nice and light but flavorful. All and all a huge victory. And the leftovers were great for meatball pizza!

Magic Mirror...

2011-11-26T11:46:00.001-08:00

Yup, she's in love with herself. I just wish I could have caught one of her smiling and licking her reflection. Reminder: I really should wipe off that mirror next time I try and take a photo. And open the blinds.

Homemade Egg Rolls

2011-11-26T11:44:00.001-08:00

How I've missed my days of youth when my Mom and her best friend Tram would make dozens upon dozens of egg rolls. So I decided to make them myself. And since there were about 60 I invited some guests over, like 6 of them!! They were a hit. Now I'll have to see just how long I can manage without them.

FYI: WE wrap them in red leaf lettuce (not shown) with basil cilantro, cucumber slices and dip them into a fish sauce with carrots. Drooling.

We have lift off!

2011-11-26T11:38:00.001-08:00

Someone is getting eager to learn how to walk. This was about 3 weeks ago. Now she's standing up everywhere and coasting along the furniture. Come Christmas we're going to have another trouble maker around here!

"Let it snow"

2011-11-26T11:34:00.001-08:00

Taken 10.29.11. Our first snow day out on the East Coast.

A Halloween "Under the Sea"

2011-11-25T05:15:00.001-08:00

(Side not: D's pumpkin was the talk of the town, seriously people were in shock! You owe me!)

I know I'm posting this the day after Thanksgiving but it's been a long month. Immediately after Halloween both the kids and Derek got sick and they all stayed seek till just about a week ago. But of course once they were on the road to recovery I got sick and then i believe a small case of food poisoning or a 24 hour bug. The next thing you know it was the week before T-Day and I had to prepare with what little time with a car I had. And did I mention on top of that we currently have a guest in our house for a month!! Yea...so throw in making the basement livable too.

OK! Enough excuses. Back to our Halloween. It was so fun. I actually finished both of the kids costumes before Halloween! That is huge for me. I was debating dressing up this year but at the last minute I knew I'd regret not dressing up. And since I bought a few things already I couldn't waste them. So I rushed to get my costume together during nap time. Over all we totally rocked! How modest am I? This all stemmed from a photo I saw of a little mermaid crocheted costume online. It was so cute. But would I really make that for just taking pictures? No! Halloween was the answer so that's when it began in early September. That's all the crucial info. Enjoy some photos! They're dark but hey thats the best you get when it's dark by the time Daddy gets home and Mom's by herself pretty much all day.

Vanessa (aka Human Ursula) and Ariel at our Ward Trunk-o-Treat

People were just dying over her and that wig. It's so funny to see a kid bald and then all of a sudden have as much hair as a grown women!

Carving Pumpkins a few days before Halloween

Ursula and her two little fish friends! You have got to admit that hair cone is pretty impressive. But the make up is terrible. You get what you pay for *coughwalmartcough* :o)

L:Trick-o-treating with Aunt Lins, R: Catching a ride with Prince Derek

FLounder kept getting freaked out by all the scary costumes. I can't blame him. One place we walked up to the guy was just sitting there with candy. As soon as he saw West he pulled this freak wolf monster mask over his face. One step and we were walking the other direction. Come on people, he's 2!! Do you really need to scare the living day lights out of a toddler!? Geesh No worries, Lins will get your back.

After out treat bag breaking a few times after exceeding the candy weight limit we decided to get bak home. Especially since Ariel was super tired.

Hopefully now that Mag's not sick I'll be able to get some good shots of her in her little costume.

P.S: My pumpkin got a lot of compliments too! Just not AS many as D's. Secret to awesome pumpkin. Have you wife stencil the too small design on you pumpkin free handed double the size it was originally. Not to brag, but I will. ;o)

Mr. Caramel

2011-11-02T11:36:00.000-07:00

Something happened to me this weekend. I found myself a lover! His name is Salted Caramel! You really should introduce yourself.

Update: Apparently he's a two timer. He left me for some butter, cream cheese and sugar.

And then decided to make nice with my pumpkin cupcakes. I guess they do make a better couple!

For more of my delicious secrets be sure to check out my Pinterests under Yummy!

Pizza Stone

2011-11-02T11:27:00.000-07:00

Possibly one of the greatest invention of our human existence. Period.

That coupled with my new and pretty sure to be most favorite pizza crust recipe are sure to make your day brighter. And if you're like us about 6 4 days, of month, brighter! We'll never order a pizza again. Or bread sticks. Just rub on some butter, garlic and parmesan and call it a success. Next on the list...deep dish. Bring it on!

Latest trick

2011-11-02T11:23:00.000-07:00

Can your baby sit up unassisted and simotaneously eat baby wipes for minutes on end? I didn't think so. That'll do Maggie, that'll do.

Mom & Tots Halloween FUn

2011-11-02T10:59:00.000-07:00

This picture is just too cute! Some are excited, silly, unsure, bored, you name it! Last week our most gracious Mom & Tots host threw an adorable Halloween bash for the kids. I wish I had taken photos of the set up but I was on West duty since he's great at "rearranging" things. Especially a table with cupcakes and yummy snacks. Not I hadn't finished the kids costumes but luckily we had two bonus options. My mom had these little scrubs personalized for West and Derek's mom bought this little Pea costume back when she was about the size of one of those little peas! Except now she barely fit it. She lasted long enough for the photo before she started to grunt like a wild little ape :o)

The kids got to play games, paint pumpkins and tear apart their buddy's bog kid room. Meanwhile we Mom's got a little socializing in and some pizza. Maggie was such a gem the whole time. She just roamed around the entire living room finding new toys to chew on. But alas every baby will eventually turn into a pumpkin when the clock strikes 12. If you couldn't tell, she gets that lower lip from me. That's my girl!

FOOD

2011-11-02T10:46:00.000-07:00

(The first bite)

Since I got to feed West for the first time it seemed only fare to let Daddy feed his little girl for the first time. But let's be honest. This wasn't the firs ttime she's had real food but it was he first meal of real food. Daddy's snuck her some treats here and there. I mean when your child is restlessly pulling at your had trying to shovel your food in her mouth you can only hold out for so long. So it was time for her to start growing up. But you know what happens next, real POOP! Eak! Wish us luck.

That's right daddy. You've just earned yourself an never ending ticket at poop diaper duty!

Mom & Tots go to the Farm

2011-11-02T10:26:00.000-07:00

It finally happened! THe week before last I finally got to go out with our Mom & Tots group. Not having a car can be a little limiting at times. So needless to say we were very excited to go. Our friends picked us up and we arrived excited to ride the tractor. Before we got started to play at the play ground. And of course the trip wouldn't be complete without loosing a kid! OURS of course!

I stpped away with a friend to grab a little stroller for Mag's and when I got back he was gone. I didn't worry and just ran back to the plaground. Makes sense right, kids like to play. Nope not there. Next I jumped over the little playrground moat and towards the store. Nothing. So next was the garden area. I ran in and asked the fgirl if she saw a little boy but she said no. As I ran by I saw some Mexican gardeners. Perfect! I ran back and I asked them in Spanish if they'd seen my kid. I figured it would be a best bet since we were the only "ethnic" folks around. And they said he just ran by and went into the garden shop as did some pleasant old man sitting near by. So I ran back to the same shope I was in an started screaming for him. "Hi Mom. I look at shovels". Oh child. My question is, when theses gentlemen saw kid most likely running alone away from the playground, why didn't they call out to the parents standing by the play structure? Probably because they're men! Once I took him in to custody the fun finally commenced.

Once we got inside the kids got to measure themselves against the measure stick. None of them were particularly thrilled with this but we all wanted a photo. What they wanted was to ride the tractor.

Everyone was pretty excited until we sat the kids down together. I guess you can see what I mean. Boys will be boys. At least Ry on the right was playing nice! Can't say the same for the other two.

Maggie and Will were having fun together. She thought he was so funny. Besides this she basically slept the whole time. Laughing must be some sort or aerobic excersice for infants.

Once we got to the pumpkins the kids ll went in every direction. West just ran around kicking al the nasty pumpkins like rotten soccer balls. Then we headed for the maze and play area. They all loved this little playhouse. Theres Ry looking so cute out the window saying hello to him mom.

Then there's my little guy trying to get out through the window. Hmm...much different thought process. I'm sure later on in his life this will be a positive thing instead of it being an extra quirk that could potentially endanger his life.

Once we were all done we finished the day by enjoying our lunches at the picnic tables. And watching Mason try to go potty by the yellow school bus cut out. :o) Thank goodness his Mom is a quick runner. He was about 3 seconds away from indecent exposure. Boys WILL be boys if you like it or not.

Orange you pretty

2011-11-02T09:54:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to share a festive fall accessory I made for little Miss M. I'd be lying if I didn't admit that I've "borrowed" it a few times.

"Daddy read"

2011-11-02T09:53:00.000-07:00

Or sleep. Maybe it's time West learns how to read to Daddy since he's the only one who can manage to stay awake these days.

Homemade Apple Pie

2011-11-02T09:50:00.000-07:00

Do you remember the 11 lbs of apples we picked at the orchard? Just in case you were wondering, this is how things panned out for them....

Absolutely delicious! And I must say with my favorite go to sweet crust this was amazing. It tasted a lot like the McDonald's Apple Pies! Let's not lie, they're good! Anyway, hope this gets those saliva glands working!

Fall Fun at the Farm

2011-10-27T21:18:00.000-07:00

In case you didn't just read my post about my new wreath, I LOVE THE FALL! And one of my favorite things to do, especially now that we have kids, is to go to the pumpkin patch. I must admit that the East coast farms are a bit worn down this year. Apparently all the flooding from the tropical storm put a damper on things. But at least they made it through. Now although there were plenty of places to choose from I'm confident we picked the best one and I'll tell you why.

1.It was actually a farm

2. There was an orchard for your picking pleasure

3. Tractor ride (only $2), eventhough we walked

4. Bouncy house (only$2)

5. Plenty of good pumpkins big and small

6. Freshly made pies in many flavors (along with other homemade goods)

7. Freshly made Apple Cider donuts... TO DIE FOR

And lastly but most importability...

8. THE BEST APPLE CIDER I'VE EVER HAD!! EVER.

My Mom-in-law agrees! And I'm assuming she's probably had more varieties than me given I grew up in CA and my idea of Cider was the sparkling kind from a bottle! Now if you know me personally I'm sure you've figured the top reasons that I chose this place we're based on elements that are completly edible. What can I say!

We went early enough in the day that we were the first of probably a dozen people to show up. So parking wasn't basd at all. So we headed first off to get our pumpkin. West got to catch a ride in the wheel barrel and Mag took shot gun in the umbrellas stroller. Which by the way isn't the best for dirt terrain. I proably should have brought our regular stroller but since we needed room for our pumpkins I didn't want to be limited.

L: Riding with dad, R: In case you ever wonder what you looked like in a bouncy house. LOL!

We found our pumpkins pretty quick. I think 5 years of marriage has made us a seasoned pumpkin picking team. Then we did the weigh in!! These babies weighed more than Margaret! And that's saying alot cause she's a big girl!

After the pumpkin event it was time to take a bouncy house intermission. West really wants to try everything under the sun but he's not often sold on anything. He gave it a good college try but I don't think it was really his cup of tea. So we got our shoes back on and took a little walk across the farm to the orchard and picked ourselves 11-pounds of apples! Yup, ELEVEN. At 50 cents per pound you can't go wrong. That equated to apples for snack time, appetizers for 6 at a BBQ, 2 apples pies and a few to spare.

But then came the best part. THE STORE!!! I went crazy. Bread and Butter pickles, cider, fresh pie, apple butter and some donuts. And might I add worth every penny. I tried multiple times to get friends to et me more cider who were heading up there, but time after my plan failed. The cider Gods must know my weakness. I suppose it must be an annual tradition. And next year I'll know to buy another fridge and stock up for winter!

L: Last apple of the day R: Me! I do exists. And I must add that I'm actually a seasoned picker. Bet you didn't know that!

With all the time D works these moments for us really have been so special. But they come and go far too quickly. but one day, in 3-4 years from now, it will be worth it. And here I thought residency was the light at the end of the Med School tunnel. WRONG! Ok, semi wrong. At least we have a house!

Extra visual stimulation...

Someone was distracted by rogue pumpkins while we picked apples.

West and the Giant Pumpkin. Jury's still out on his thoughts about that.

Derek found a cart of pumpkins and thought "Why not wedge our daughter between 50lb pumpkins and her brother". (Can't verify his actual thought by the way). Cute right!

So from our home to yours have a fashionably festive fall and fabulous Halloween!

TODAY is "THE" day....

2011-10-22T13:57:00.000-07:00

That I will be featured on REMODELAHOLIC. I'm so excited I could pee my pants. ;o) Be sure to leave some commentary love after you read the post. And be sure to check back for some more projects and makeovers soon.

Red Reveal with a Surprise!

2011-10-20T10:16:00.000-07:00

Attention friends, family and followers: Before I get into this next post I have some amazing news. I just found out that my Kitchen Island Reveal is going to be featured on the much loved and followed Blog Remodelaholic! I can't even tell you how excited I am about this. It's a confirmation that all my semi-annoying-husband hobbies are now validated and ADMIRED! So be sure to check it out as I will be going viral October 22nd at 5pm CST at Remodelaholic. And in case you've been living under a rock and have never heard of this blog, get a move on and check them out ASAP! I'll be sure to post a reminder the day of so you don't miss out on my "Featured on" debut!

Now back to our regularly scheduled blogging...

If you ask my husband if there was anything about me that he wasn't particularly thrilled about chances are it would have something to do with discarded furniture on curb sides. Yup I'm what my neighbors might call a "Gypsy". Not in a literal sense but that is what they call people who drive around collecting peoples unwanted items before trash day. It's ironic because I distinctively remember my mother asking me to help her pull an item out of the dumpster when I was in High School and being so embarrassed. Why on earth would she want something that someone threw away? Well Mom, I owe you an apology! I've seen the light and it's RED!!

As we made our way home from church a few Sundays back I came across a set of benches all alone left to the mercy of the trash men. I just couldn't let that happen. So I dropped off the kiddies, threw down the seats and hauled those babies (in my Sunday best I might add) into the back of our SUV. Now the time has come. Regardless of what he might think, these little suckers are now a thing of beauty!! And what better color than Phillies RED!!

Before...

After...

Aren't they just beautiful! Although I only have one photographed the two are just alike. They are adorable here with our colorful arm chair with red accents. But I think they would be best on a patio, in a garden or in a playroom. Now here is the kicker, these bad boys are up for grabs!! That's right. We just don't have a need for them so I'm selling them to the highest bidder. So let me know if you're interested. (Please leave an email address as a contact)

Now time for some close-ups!

I just love this faux cracked detail. For these benches I followed the same method that I used for our Kitchen Island, except I stuck to a razor blade technique this time and axed the sand paper. And if you're wondering if they are kid friendly then just ask West!

"Kid Tested Mother approved!"

"I don't wan' a nap"

2011-10-19T11:28:00.000-07:00

Oh really!

Hide and seek!

2011-10-19T11:24:00.000-07:00

I don't know what it is about our arm chair. But no matter where you set her down she always finds her way back. Kudos to me for buying something multifunctional!

Big Boy Bed

2011-10-19T11:19:00.000-07:00

After the 3rd or 4th time West decided to sneak out of his crib we decided it might be best to just move onto the "BIG BOY BED". Sure it means he could come and go as he pleases. But at least there won't be any broken bones involved. So to the internet we went. ANd just a week later on a rainy afternoon the door bell rang and we kissed away the last piece of infancy we had been holding onto.

Now let's wrap the rest of this up quickly because I could go on for days about it. The bed came with two damaged pieces, both head/footboard. But I assembled it anyway to see if it all fit and ordered i a replacement. After assembly I realized the quality wasn't stellar but hey it was put together and someone was just over the moon about it!!

So we decided to wait on the extra pieces and fix it then. Shortly after I sat on the bed and one of the slats snapped in half. Really, I'm not that heavy!! Talk about a dip in the self esteem poll. That coupled with the fact that the drawer wouldn't work finally got to me. So we are currently in the process of getting another bed. Only to find that alot of toddler beds are total garbage!! ugh...but I found a good one and it's just a matter of convincing a guy on Craigslist to give it to me for 1/2 the price he wanted for it!

All in all the experience was good. West loves sleeping in a Big Boy Bed and we like knowing he's no longer at risk of breaking his neck. Win Win!

Real Carrots are from Philly

2011-10-19T11:09:00.000-07:00

At last! A carrot that actually resembles the ones I remember seeing in books and cartoons! Who knew these existed!

I'm the Kiebler Elf

2011-10-19T11:07:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure if this a good thing or not but I've been baking like crazy since we've moved here. Of the top of my head I know my neighbors have received sugar cookies (twice), cheesecake, strawberry cupcakes and sugar cookies again, so thrice! And we mustn't exclude 2 birthday cakes, coconut cream pie and an Apple pie, which went to a lucky family for our last minute FHE lesson on sharing. Why am I admitting to this crime of inducing tooth decay? Because some of these have been amazing!! Strawberry cupcakes...amazing, sugar cookies (2nd & 3rd time)...AWEOME, cheescake... never fails and a non baked treat famously known as "Frozen Hot Chocolate" from Serendipity was just MIND BLOWING!! Oh and my perfected sugar crust just made that apple pie remind me of the ones from McDonald's except way better and Homemade. Mmm!

So to make you all drool here is the proof!

I think I juste figured out the reason those last 4 lbs of baby weight have stuck around. But for once, it's worth it!

Love Hate Relationship

2011-10-19T10:47:00.000-07:00

There are only two ways of being in the bumbo...

Or...

Falling in love!

2011-10-13T14:17:00.000-07:00

In case you don't know already Fall is by far my favorite season of the year. You get some sunshine and a little breeze. The rich colors and hues of nature are just pouring from every bit of nature all around. And nothing lulls me to sleep like the pitter pattering of raindrops on my window pane. Then of course there's hats, scarves, boots and mittens!! Bring it! Ha! So what better way to get ready for this glorious time of year than with an adorably crisp and inexpensive wreath!

BEAUTIFUL!!

Total Cost : $3.19 plus tax for a raffia wreath. Everything else I had on hand. Jealous yet! If you are I'll make you one, but not for $3.19

;o)

My Colorful New Island!

2011-09-29T08:59:00.000-07:00

People often ask me if I've ever refinshed furniture before or taken on painting projects. Of course! Have I ever actually documented them, yes! But not very well or in depth with step by step explanation. So drum roll please! You are about to be shocked and amazed. Why? Because I actually finished a BIG project almost all by myself with lots of photographs!

The problem, a lack of kitchen storage for all my culinary toys! Solution, make it myself!

We went from this....

To this...

(Flat against the wall for more walking space)

(Perpendicular to the wall for a galley kitchen flow)

Isn't it great. And if you ask my Father-in-Law (Big Papa), he'll tell you its great because its "so functional"! Ha. Well thanks to my Mum in law I have been reafirmed in my bold color choice, which I totally dig, as it appeared on the Nate Berkus Show recently! Not to mention this color scheme has made its way to Pinterest a bunch!

This whole project started with the fact that I have more kitchen items than some people have clothes. I love to cook, bake, decorate cakes, make homemade pastas, you name it and I like to try it! So how was I going to solve my problem. Lucky for us we have a great sized kitchen which gave us a chance to have an Island. Not a huge one, but one big enough to offer more counter space and storage for my odds and ends. So let's begin.

Step 1: Find a piece to fit your needs and budget. At just $45 we found this beauty on craigslist. I was drawn to the price and the small bead boarding design on the doors that could make it more casual farm once painted. Plus the whimsey detail on the toe board.

Step 2: Use a paint thinner to clean off the grime and as many layers as possible. Or in our case the new and terribly done stain the seller put on the same day we said we were going to pick it up. STICKY pick up! Then sand that bad boy down till it's nice and smooth, in my case by hand! My fingers hated me after!

2a. (optional) Add wainscot to match the details on the front doors and to give me the option of having the island rotate to show the back side and not be ashamed!

2b. (optional) Add support 2x4's. We planned on adding granite on top so we were going to need the support.

Step 3: Get a solid primer and prime all surfaces you're going to paint then sand till smooth. Repeat for good coverage. (note: don't leave your brush out like me! It might dry out if its super hot out)

Step 4: Paint it!! Yay. We use spray paint. Why? It's inexpensive, user friendly and you can change the color if you don't like it and you'd only have wasted $3.

(Color: Rustoleum Satin Lagoon)

Step 5: Distress. I just took a razor blade and some sand paper and had at it. I'd never done this technique before and from what I read there is no bad move. Just try and wear it down where you think it would have naturally been worn down. Or in my case...EVERYWHERE!!

(Before the distressing)

Note: sandpaper does leave some tracks of roughness if that matters to you. If it does then just stick to the razor blade.

Step 6: Add stain (Sorry no photo). Just pick your color, we chose Dark Walnut by Minwax, and wipe it all over the place with a clean rag. The longer you leave it the darker it gets. For this part I realized I liked the exposed wood alot since it shows nicely with the contrast of the teal color we picked. Also, if you live somewhere very warm then your stain will dry MUCH quicker so don't go have a lunch break or anything!

Step 7: Wipe off excess stain to reveal your new finish. You can always add more later if you think it's too light.

7a. (optional) Then add some casters to your bottom frame to make the island mobile. With lock option of course.

Step 8: Add hardware and admire your new Island.

Now we did want to add granite but it simply was not in the budget right now. So we cleaned and sanded the top down like we did the rest of the piece and got some wood conditioner that's for surfaces that need to be safe for food preparation.

Breakdown:
Buffet (no tax) $45
Paint (3 cans) $2.98/ea
Sandpaper $8.30
Wainscot (2 pks) $10.79/ea
Wood Oil $12.44
*sandpaper $3.97
Nail setter $1.98
Hammer $0
Drill $0
Saw $0
Wood Filler $2.99
Stain $4.58
Hardware $22.61
Wood for Support $7.90
Castors** $21.48

+ Taxes $7.72

Total $169.49

* Not mentioned but needed this sand paper for the oil application.
**Hub retured original hardware for different and cheaper ones and lost the receipt so I'm keeping this for the sake of adding a total

This was a bit more expensive for us since we just moved and down sized on our supplies and ended up needing to buy some more stuff we use to have. If you have some basics on hand it would be cheaper. Especially if you already have the piece you want to make over.

Overall I love it!! The optional steps I mentioned made the piece so great for us. It gave it the diversity I wanted and made it mobile with the chance of a granite upgrade later. I must add a big thanks though to the Hubby. You know men, there are just certain things they're better at and won't let you do anyway with a ~~their~~ power tool. So he really gets the credit for the support, castors and wainscot application. And considering I tried for months to find an island this was worth the money. The best I ever found was for about $150 for an island half this size and no personality or color. For something that would truly have met MY needs it would have been about $400-$450. So that made for a $200+ savings.

And my problem or issue with my many spices is now obsolete! Silverware drawer turned Spiceville!

And just enough room for my rolling pin which was an issue too! An unplanned bonus!

Now I have a great new piece in the kitchen to give me just the extra space I needed to make my culinary adventures a bit more cozy and "funtional"! Love you Big Papa!

Just the everyday

2011-09-28T06:57:00.000-07:00

I always see those adorable photos of kids falling asleep all over the place, in the middle of eating, standing up, the list goes on. But my kids have never been that way, until last week. In the midst of playing with her new and basically only toy, Maggie just killed over, really. I heard her sucking on her toy like a mad man as I was cleaning up in the kitchen and then it got quiet. I figured she might have dropped it and needed a hand but this is what I found...

I have to say it was pretty adorable. Especially when she woke up all confused with a nice imprint of the rug on her forehead. Besides that our little girl is growing at a rapid rate. She Coo's, giggles and laughs when you tickle her. She loves being sang to. She's been teething for just over a month and I think the worst part has passed. Now she just loves to gnaw on anything she can get her hands on. She even has taken to her teething ring.

As for the little man of the house, well he's an adventure each day. Whether it's sitting on Maggie like a horse, having a tantrum, trying to run around in the buff or just wondering into not so kid friendly areas causing mayhem, he's always up to something. But here is a small quirk of his. After he's finished eating something he always stacks his dishes. It's his signal that he's all done.

So there you go, just some of our daily happenings!

9.11

2011-09-23T12:41:00.000-07:00

In our neighborhood many blue lights glow at night. Since we moved her we've wondered why. I asked my neighbor what they were for as we had approached the weekend. He seemed a bit taken back as he glanced away to the ground. He said they were for Officers who died in the line of duty.

Ten years ago on September 11th I was being woken up by my mother for School earlier than normal. As she shook me awake she said "A plane crashed into the towers". I remember thinking that I must still be asleep. How could a plane be crashing into a huge building in my life time. As I stumbled out of bed and made my way to the living room there it was on tv. This building on fire with a plane logged into its side. A few moments later came another.

I think in many ways I was still too young in that moment to understand what was happening. I mean I didn't even know what the twin towers were yet. It wasn't till arriving to school that it sank in. We all sat in our early "O" period class huddled together listening to the news. What I remember most was my friend beside me with her knees to her chest rocking. She knew someone who worked there. A close friend or relative. And there she was sitting waiting, wondering whether they were alive or lost in the rubble.

I'm not going to sit her and pretend I know all about the war and that I have a stand one way and condemn those who think otherwise. All I know is that so many selfless people died that day. Saving people they never knew and would never really meet. Mothers and Fathers embracing their children, I can only imagine, as they realized their plane was about to crash. But I have such comfort in knowing that they are at peace. That they are loved by their Father in Heaven, whether they have known him or not.

Its comforting to know that blue lights glow. Serving as a reminder of brave men and women who have given their lives serving to protect those around them. Be it when our country is attacked in such heart wrenching events or the events that effect our communities each day. To them and those left behind we owe a great Thanks.

Thank You.

365 days till 30

2011-09-21T19:00:00.000-07:00

I don't even know where to start. So I'll start with this photo. Here is the man I love with the two most important little people in the entire world. I'm so glad we have this single moment to remember just as it is. Derek's birthday was great. Not at all what we'd hoped or planned but great. Instead of having a car for errands I hustled in less than 2 hours to run errands with the kids in the stroller nicely tucked and warm while the constant sprinkling got me a bit damp. We hurried home to make a cake, throw in some wash and clean up the house a bit. And as luck would have it Derek got home early from work, YAY, to find his cake melting, no dinner on the table, a not so beautified wife with frizzy hair and babies screaming all around.

Hun I love you! You're a wonderful Dad. I love to laugh with you and at you. I love talking about every frivolous subject and then the most tender things in our lives. You've been such a patient and loving husband and I only hope I can be enough for you in return. I'm so glad you were born and most grateful that we found one another. If I could, I'd make September 20th a holiday! So here is to the man in my life.

Happy Birthday! Enjoy 29 because it's going to go fast!

Baby Maddox

2011-09-12T12:19:00.000-07:00

While attending the baby shower of the season this past weekend I stumbled upon a Mommy who has not had the best of luck getting newborn photos of her now 2 month old baby boy! I immediately remembered my worried heart when I was holding my 2 month old little guy and realized there was a reason they were called "newborn"sessions! So there I was with a camera in tote up for a challenge! We used everything and anything in my friends apartment and were lucky enough to have some natural light. So I jumped to it and am so glad I did. For the entire set of photos just click here.

Thanks Mama Maddox for hiring me on the spot. I hope it was worth all the wait! xoxo

4 Months "wit" Margaret

2011-09-09T12:36:00.000-07:00

Ok really...could she be getting any cuter. Our sweet girl hit another month marker this past Monday. And with it she's accomplished quite a bit. Besides the adorable smiles she also learned to truly giggle! It's so adorable. She likes "dancing" or being my dancing puppet. That was the first time I really hear her giggle so she must have been enjoying herself. She is now a professional roller, both sides and is already able to sit up unassisted for a brief second. Just not long enough for me to focus the camera! :o)

I want to eat here up! Really those little creases are just so darn cute! Also I should ad that she finally is into playtime. Just this week I finally saw her gnawing on her toys and slobbering like a puppy with a chew toy! It was so sweet. Now I don't feel bad when I have to put her down to cook.

Now I know these photos are a lot a like and pretty gender neutral but it was the first chance I had some decent sun in the house considering its been raining for an entire week. So the next time Mr. Sun peaks through for more than 5 minutes I'll be sure to ruffle her up a bit and get some girly shots for the granny's! We know how much they love those...who doesn't! So here we go, heading towards the 6 month mark quicker than we had hoped. but with each day its odd how you enjoy it just as much as the day before. I mean who could resist the baby babble? It's like she's having girl talk. She's just the only girl at this point who knows the subject of conversation!

P.S: "Wit" is a Philly thing ;o)

Counting by 5's

2011-09-04T20:45:00.000-07:00

August 12, 2006

Five years ago, plus a month since I'm posting this late, I married the best looking guy I had ever laid eyes on! Yes, the first time I saw him I thought "Holy crap, he's hot!" Plus he said he wanted to be a doctor so I figure a good looking Doctor would be a plus. Really, that was a factor! And he was and is by far the best decision I've ever made. Everything with us was so easy. We loved being together, talking on the phone for far too long and going on dates to see Harry Potter. He was thoughtful, sweet, "confident" as he likes to call it and always a bit corny. So in possibly our favorite place in the world, Oakland, CA, we were married for time and all eternity. I don't think I ever smiled so much or so wide as I did during our wedding. I felt as if any moment my cheeks were sure to start cramping. Now here we are 5 years later, with 3 states, 3 cities and 4 apartments under our belt and 2 darling kids. But this anniversary by far will be the most memorable. Because it was spent together as a family at a local restaurant, because we couldn't get a sitter, where our son mixed large quantities of ketchup with salt, pepper and splenda and decided to "drink" or slurp it rather from a big plastic cup. Yes folks, romance doesn't get any better than this!

August 13, 2011

Happy Anniversary Love.

I promise next year we'll get a sitter and Ketchup Smoothies won't be on the menu!!

Auntie Lindsay P.A.

2011-09-04T20:23:00.000-07:00

I swear I have to give myself a pat on the back often. I sure did "marry up" as some people might say! LOL! I married into a loving and hilarious family, my hubby followed through and became a doctor, my "little" Sister in law (who is way taller than me, thanks Jode) is a dental hygienist, my brother in law is a "gangsta"/ accomplished carpet cleaner and my fun and vivacious Sister in law just graduated from Physician Assistants School!!

(Photo of a photo of her literal graduation)

Can you give her a big "Woop Woop"! I remember thinking as I was applying for nursing school that she, Derek and I would all be graduating at the same time!! Well, I had a baby. But they kept their course!!

It's been a long couple years of moving out on her own to the East Coast taking on a new adventure so far from what she's known. Granted she did get to acclimate while being a nanny a few years back in NY. But still, this was an entirely different beast! And she rocked it big time. So we all got together and drove/flew in for the big event... the white coat ceremony!

Ugh... I wish I had a zoom lens. But this is better than nothing. Look how happy she looks!! And of course her partner and roommate in crime Dimitria! I must hand it to them, they were some of the most graceful "coatings" at the ceremony. One guy accidently put his on inside out!

Proud parents!

After the ceremony we headed some post ceremony hors d'oeuvres followed by a swanky yet casual party in Arlington. Where upon arrival my daughter had an "outburst" (the stinky kind) and my son ran around the house chasing a helpless dog and later decided to prune some flowers with a stick! Yet, everyone managed to think they were adorable! Ah, What gracious hosts!

Once everyone headed North our way the entire week was filled with family time, cute grand babies and long walks to Wendy's! Don't ask! :o) We are just so proud of you Lins. And I'm so glad I picked a winning family!

VOGUE

2011-09-04T19:36:00.000-07:00

As much as I love boys and still swear they're probably the most fun, I just adore my baby girl. it's amazing how different children are one from another and boys to girls. She has such a sweet, calm and yet silly temperament. For fun, a while back we decided to do a photo shoot while West was napping. Just us girls, to show off one of the adorable dresses she received. This one is extra special. It was hand made from one of my best friends just for Mag's. And I must say she just rocks this little dress! Even if she is quickly growing out of it by the pound! Who knows if I'll be able to squeeze it over those chubby cheeks and arms next time it comes out of the closet. Or anything that come out of the closet for that matter.

She's been so fascinated with her tongue on certain days. It's like she realized she had a built in toy she forgot about. It's adorable. It's also the first face she made when she was just minutes old!

Vogue, vogue, vogue, vogue!

Pesto Potatoe

2011-09-03T13:22:00.000-07:00

So good! Who knew! Not me apparently. No recipe, just went for it! And yes, we did stuff crust! As my friend says, "Yum-O"!

Just like Daddy

2011-09-03T13:17:00.001-07:00

3 Months

2011-09-03T13:16:00.000-07:00

It feels like only yesterday that I was in unbearable pain bringing this adorable little pink Tank into the world. And here she is growing at a nearly unsurpassable rate, smiling and giggling along with us as we explore the world of tickles and raspberries. Maggie is a doll. She loves everything except being put down. But even then its only moments until she finds a cozy position and falls to sleep. She has been such a joy and such an easy baby. I dare to say easier than West.

She's started laughing, smiles like crazy, belches and farts like a grown man and has discovered mobility via "the wiggle". She's even rolled over, both ways, a few times. Yes, in no time at all she'll be eating food, crawling and talking. Until then I need to enjoy ever second I have of her, this "tiny" ball of cuteness.

She wore this jumper on her way home from the hospital. Then, her feet and shin's barely came out of the leg holes! Sniff! Too quick I tell you.

Ambitious

2011-09-03T13:07:00.000-07:00

I've been afraid to put this on the blog for one reason. If I say it out-loud (or on a blog) then I know J will hold me to it! LOL. But my friend Edie and I have decided to try and sell our girly creations in the NE area of Philadelphia!! I know!! I'm excited and scared all at the same time. But I tell you what, I've been having a fun time getting my craft on again at last! Wish us luck! And spread the word, I'll be making headbands like crazy!

No words

2011-09-03T13:01:00.001-07:00

Just as you are

2011-09-03T13:00:00.000-07:00

I swear every time I walk into the bathroom I find something new and unexpected to make laugh or bring me to tears! This one was definitely a good laugh. It's too bad I didn't get one while he had both legs stuck in one pant leg.

Silly Girl

2011-09-03T12:58:00.001-07:00

A quote I love...

2011-08-05T07:45:00.000-07:00

“ The Divine Shepard has a message of hope, strength, and deliverance for all. If there were not night, we would not appreciate the day, nor could we see the stars and the vastness of the heavens. We must partake of the bitter with the sweet. There is a divine purpose in the adversities we encounter every day. They prepare, they purge, they purify and thus they bless”.

- Elder James E. Faust

Loss

2011-08-02T16:03:00.000-07:00

Sometimes in life we lose people unexpectedly, without warning to something we hadn't anticipated. But sometimes we loose someone who's journey was waiting to end. We all know it will be the best thing for them when it comes. That they'll no longer be in pain. But in reality those losses seem to me to be the hardest. We've had so much time to anticipate our future loss. The moments, memories and stories we're never going to hear again.

Today we loss the backbone to our family, the glue that has held it together for so many years. She had lived through so much and was without a shadow of a doubt the strongest women I've ever and may ever know. We love you Grandma. For ninety years you lived, survived and cared for others. Now it's your turn again to be cared for, the chance to live again. I miss you already. We all do.

1933 & 1942 with her Sister Annie. Together till the last moment.

For Ava

2011-07-31T13:26:00.000-07:00

One of West's new little friends just turned 3. And of course I hate attending a party without a gift. So 15 minutes later this is what "we" came up with...

It's a headband for anyone who's asking. Hey, I think this catches me up on my posts. Yay.

Pool

2011-07-31T13:15:00.000-07:00

(He just kind of stood there and then would hop out and throw hand fulls of grass in)

I forgot to mention West's big gift for his Birthday! A pool! Sure it took 45 minutes to pump up and 20 minutes to fill while I was in the blazing hot sun. But hey to see the look of joy on West's little face as he DIDN'T go swimming was totally ~~not~~ worth it! LOL! Let's be honest, I could have just thrown him in the tub and spared myself all the sweating. Not to mention the huge circle of dead grass in the middle of Dad's pretty lawn! Oops. Lesson learned.

A good laugh

2011-07-31T13:05:00.000-07:00

Do you ever wonder what they're thinking? ;o)

Chub

2011-07-31T12:48:00.000-07:00

Need I say more!

TWO

2011-07-31T12:46:00.000-07:00

Just look at this face. So thoughtful as he silently unravels the small mysteries of his little life. Yes, turning two years old is life changing in deed. So what does a two year old boy wantto do for this momentous day? "Mommy I feed baby milk". Hmm...not sure how that will work out but hey you just give into that nurturing side kiddo.

And he did. That was probably the hardest I'd laughed in quite a while. Especially as he was holding his "nibble" for her he started making a lip smacking noise to signify that she was eating. Then he quickly pulled his shirt back down and said "All done". Really, kids are just hilarious. But I'm sad to report that was probably the high lite of his day, breast feeding. I was so busy trying to make a special dinner, get his cake ready and making a few small decoration that we didn't do anything super exciting. And since we were supposed to have some neighbors over for cake I needed to make sure I was done on time so I didn't send those kids into sugar coma right before bed time. But as luck would have it I finished everything on time. It's too bad Dad was running late. We were expecting cake around 6:30. We waited, and waited, and waited some more and finally at 9pm the girls next door came out screaming "He's home". They had all be waiting patiently at the back window to wait and see Derek come home through the back gate. But by then all the kids had to go inside.

Finally home together as a family we sat down for dinner and sang "Happy Birthday". It's was too late so we brushed our teeth and went to bed and decided to save cake for the next afternoon. I could go into detail about that but lets just say it wasn't going too good either. But eventually candles were lit, cake was consumed and gifts were unwrapped.

We went for a baseball theme. What better team than the Phillies for a birthday in July! How perfect was Nana's gift she mailed and it perfectly matched our decorations!

West's newly acquired fake smile! "Cheeze" And his "Ball shirt" he picked out for his Birthday! I gues he knew we were doing a sports theme!

Not quite according to plan it was still a special 2 day celebration, or week really. Packages kept coming in the mail through the course of a week or two. Now every-time a package comes in the mail he says "Mommy mine. My Birthday!" Why not! Who knew mail could be so exciting! Happy Birthhday Baby Boy! I promise next year I'll actually let you leave the house! :o)

Just because...

2011-07-31T12:22:00.000-07:00

July 6th, 2011

2 months

2011-07-31T12:20:00.000-07:00

I just love the baby squat and stretch!

Fourth

2011-07-30T14:48:00.001-07:00

(Made an hour before midnight! I wanted to buy a flag but we didn't have funds! Finally all those scraps came in handy!)

Today I cam to the realization that I will never be one of those people who can post a days happenings on that same day. Not that I can't, I'm sure I could really get myself to do it. But honestly there are other things that seem to leave the house as if it were in the wake of chaos. That being said, I wanted to share our 4th of July with all of you since it's been almost an entire month. But in all fairness, we did just move and still have many things to accomplish besides day to day activities! Ha!

On with the show! For the weekend we decided to visit D's Sister Lins out in D.C. I had never been there before so I was pretty excited to see the white house. Everything else, well not so much! Not that I'm unpatriotic in the least, it's just that I genuinely don't know much about our Nations history. Yes, I went to grade school and college too! But history just never sticks with me. It's interesting when I hear it an then it gone about a week later, unless there is an exam to study for! That being said, I REALLY loved it! It was so fascinating. The architecture, the monuments, the overall atmosphere was really amazing.

We got there on Saturday afternoon and went out to dinner on the boulevard near Lins' house. It was such a cute town lined with little shops and restaurants. And with some luck I was able to secure myself some great sushi! Afterwards we grabbed a redbox (Country Strong, that movie was very depressing, but the music was great!) and enjoyed some italian ice.

The next day we headed to church like each Sunday. But this time it was at a neat kind of period building. So of course we took a picture in front of it. Did I mention it was blazing hot? After church we headed to the "Mall". I'm silly, I totally thought for whatever reason we were actually going to the Mall. But that's what they refer to the monuments as, the Mall, since there are a lot of them in one central location.

WHITE HOUSE! I even saw snipers on the roof! Crazy.

We only got out to see the white house since the kids were tired, it was hot and we ran out of diapers for little Miss.

There she is!

Monday came and we had a great 4th of July BBQ with our friends Dan and Morgan and some other friends from Lins's school. West and Derek got to go swimming togther. And by swimming I mean he slowly coersed West into the pool. He's just not a fish! He likes the idea but just won't follow through.

Afterwards we had to head back quickly since D had to be at work ealry and we still wanted to be able to catch our neighborhood fireworks. It was so much fun having the 4th in our neighborhood. Kids everywhere, parents hanging out together, music blaring from cars parked in the street.

West did pretty well. He was scared of the sparklers, which I'd prefer at this age. But he eventually wanted to try holding one. He held it by the vary last bit of the stick and held as far away as humanly possible. Ha! Good boy. Too bad after it died out he touched it thinking it broke. Ouch! THat but him off fireworks for the night. Daddy missed all but the last sparkler, due to many important Doctor calls, but the two of them looked so cute with their little sparkler. It's too bad Maggie slept throug hall the fun, as usual!

I heart Faces: Water

2011-07-25T12:17:00.000-07:00

Thanks to J I was introduced to the awesome photography site I heart faces! It's a great community of all things photography and allows a fun venue for photographers of all levels to participate in fun challenges to expand our talents! Two weeks ago I got the nerve to decided to do it, but with the holiday there was a small break. So I waited patiently for the next challenge, WATER!! Perfect! A new friend of mine just introduces us to the Splash Pad. It's an awesome FREE water pad at a local school that runs on sensors. So to Splash Pad we went. Without making this too long this is the photo I liked the most!!

He got squirted by a sensor that went off nearby! And I must say, getting an awesome shot of a 2 year old running through water that randomly turns on and off when both elements need to be in the photo presented quite the challenge! And yes, I got a couple squirts too! Those sensors man!

Be sure to check out some adorable photos that people submitted this week! Give them some photo love!

Mags

2011-07-21T17:18:00.000-07:00

Just an update on how big are "little" girl is getting. It's been hard t track her wroth seeing as we haven't been to a check-up since she was 2 week old. But my guess is that we're easily pushing on 12 or 13lbs.

2 weeks

8 weeks

I would have kept using this cute vintage dolly my grandmother gave me but our buddy Cici accidentally decapitated her shortly after this photo. We need to book some time with Doctor Daddy soon to get that fixed! But something tells me the two dolls are about the same height. Dolly is just a little thicker in the waist!

Projects

2011-07-21T17:04:00.000-07:00

Without giving away too many surprise for ~~our~~ my decorating plans, here are a few pieces in queue.

Awesome brass lamp and side table. There are actually two tables.

Cost: $0

Awesome crochet thread and yard needlework piece on burlap canvas

Cost $6

(Don't tell Derek! I'm banking on the fact that he only looks at the photos on our blog and never actually reads anything!)

Big Bessie here was our big purchase for our kitchen island. The drawers are even lined with felt!

Cost $45

Sanded, primed and waiting on another sanding

And of course I've managed to acquire another big piece in the past week. I'm pretty darn excited about this one too. It's for the kids playroom in the basement. Also...Free! Pretty awesome. Not that the hubby would agree. I'll keep yo posted as these projects finish up! but something tells me I'm going to need some baby-sitting reinforcement!

2011-07-21T16:39:00.000-07:00

So apparently I live under a rock! We went out to Jersey shore a few weekends ago with our friends and visited the ever famous Shore Store. But when Derek's co-residents asked what he did for the weekend they laughed when he said he went to Jersey Shore, specifically Seaside. Hmm...well I guess that happens when you're from the other side of the country! But regardless of the hassling it was a fun trip.

Had to visit Shore Store of course. Never seen the show but hey mark it off my list!

Creepy clown photo of the Boys. Can I say to you all at this moment... I HATE CLOWNS!

We even treated ourselves to some Orangsickle ice cream! Even though Boardwalk prices are like triple!

Daddy and Mags. Isn't she adorable in yellow. My cute little monkey. Really, she adorable but she kind of resembles a baby chimp. Yea, I know chimps and monkeys are different.

We stopped at this little candy shop where West was lucky enough to get a HUGE lollipop. I believe we were in the middle of some kind of crisis and saw candy as an emergency solution from what I can recall. Plus it was like $2.

However once he was consoled I made the mistake of telling him he couldn't bite it. Bad idea...

And why am I such a mean Mommy. Why wouldn't I want him to be able to chew on that colorful piece of confectionary heaven? This is why...

But leave it to Mags to be a complete angel the entire trip. Ok. Right here she is so adorable, not resembling any type of furry mammal! :o) Just look at those little lips!

And if one cone wasn't enough we had another! The guy said right after he handed me the cone " Man these cones are pretty soft today" to his buddy. At that moment of attempting to lick the cone the entire thing falls of it's crunchy cone pedestal. Hmm...yea it's soft! Did he offer a replacement? Of course not! This is Jersey people. So I asked for a cup and put the majority of the cone that I caught in my hand and handed the cone to West!

Haven't had a family photo in a while...

And also, I've learned West is very much his Mommy's little boy. Although he likes water he is not a fan of beach water.

"Dad, why would you do that to me? Not cool!"

But getting dirty in the sand, now that's a plan!

"Mom! Outside Mom!"

2011-07-21T16:05:00.000-07:00

Now this is the face of a kid who is "wicked" happy to have a backyard of his very own!! Just throw your toys on the lawn, turn on the hose and go to town.

And here it is in all it's glory!

Rita's

2011-07-21T16:00:00.000-07:00

There had been one thing we have grown to love quite quickly out here on the East Coast and that's good ole' Rita's!

Water ice plain or served with some frozen custard! Two enthusiastic thumbs up, especially on these hot and humid summer afternoons! Don't worry about Mag's, she gets treated to a cool house to nap the day away!

Life before furniture

2011-07-20T15:36:00.000-07:00

Some of you might be wondering what we did for an entire week while we waited on our stuff! Or not. Either way I just wanted to share a few more photos.

Enjoying fine dining with no table...

Then after a trip to walmart a table for one!

Relaxing in the loving room...

I wish there were adult car seat. Lucky duck always had a place to take a nap!

(The house.)

Of course West being the social butterfly he is, made friends instantly!

Taking bathes in our new tub!

Taking bathes outside!

Kids around here don't fool around. They play and play hard rain or shine!

So there you have it.

Familiar Faces in Philly

2011-07-20T15:20:00.000-07:00

(I had to have a picture of this!)

One of the redeeming factors of moving across the country as that we happen to have a few friends out this way from California! Yay! A couple of these friends happen to have gone through the Med program with us and we even attended church together. We were so excited to have old friends around to be with. Granted they are a 40 minute drive. But the way to a friends house is never far! So our first Sunday, well day actually, we drove on out to see them. I hadn't seen Shae and the kids since West was nearly 6 months.

(West would only let Shae hold his hand when crossing the street! Little booger! Ha!)

The kids had a lot of fun. It was so awesome to see the kids playing outside with no worries of shootings and muggings! Their neighborhood was so adorable so we decided to take a walk around and get some "fresh" air.

How adorable is this house! I just love the carriage style garage doors!

We even got to see some fire flies at the little stream by their house. I'm from California, so I've NEVER seen a fire fly before! So I think we'll be making it a goal to hang with our friends each month. Next on our list is Joe and Jenny!

Moving Day

2011-07-20T14:51:00.000-07:00

Where do start. Well, we got to PA on the 11th/12th (late flight) and our truck arrived 7 days later and a total of 3 weeks after we left California. Needless to say, life without any furniture and 2 kids and no hubby (he was at orientation) was a bit uncomfortable. But finally the day came. The two semi-friendly, not so pretty smelling, light on the manners movers showed up with our stuff. After a minor tiff about not having the correct payment method, not to name names but it wasn't MY fault, we were unloading. And to be honest we deserved the tips. I swear Derek unloaded 1/2 that truck on his own while the two burly Russians took about a 10minute smoke brake every 15 minutes!

So here is what our house looked like after the sweaty men left...

(L: Kids room, R: "Our" office)

This is pretty much the layout of the two rooms. They are side by side just like this an about identical in size. "Our" office as I mentioned was supposed to be a guest room/craft room. But "someone" decided they needed an office after all. I mean, I was getting a craft room so I guess he felt entitled to extra space too. Ha!

(View of Main floor from front entry stair well)

The main floor is cut in half by the stairs. The living room looks onto the backyard while the dining room is adjoined to the kitchen.

We actually left the couch and entertainment center where they are here. The bookcase is on the other side. Then there is the kitchen. Can I say one big "Hallelujah"! A kitchen! A real kitchen. Amazing appliances, a huge fridge, window to the outside world, new never used cabinets, tile floors and a DISHWASHER people!!!

Then there is the master bedroom. It's big! It is the same size as the living room actually. The 2nd floor just mirrors the divide set by the stairs. So besides our normal furniture we also fit our rocker in the room so I can finally wake up for night time feeding (as needed) and rock myself back to sleep too!

As of today nearly every box is unpacked with exception to the plethora of items I couldn't fit in the kitchen. Crazy as it sees but I like to cook and bake. And to do that I require lots of "junk" as the hubby so affectionately call it. Junk or not, he loves it and wouldn't have me any other way. In the mean time we'll be finishing up our kitchen island we're making and I'll slowly be acquiring and fixing all the items to fulfill my design plans!

Oo...I plum forgot about the basement. Don't worry! I'll post a photo later when I do before and after photos.

HOME

2011-07-18T13:09:00.000-07:00

Here it is everyone. The chapter you've been waiting for. For just over 4 weeks now we have been enjoying our new life on the East Coast. Despite all my many fears I knew this was where we were meant to go. And with all that faith everything just managed to work out.

Our flight out was the dreaded necessity of my life. I mean two kids, two flights with a layover isn't exactly what any parent dreams about. But we knew it had to be done. I mean, at least we didn't have to drive. Thanks Nana and Papa for that HUGE load off our back! But as luck would have it the kids were great. Both of them and Daddy fell asleep during our first flight. Even I took a little nap. The layover was surprisingly quick and productive incorporating pajama time and dinner. WE even had time to make some new friends who just thought West was a riot with his chucks and tractor pajamas.

Then we headed for the second leg. And who knew, the boys watched about 30-minutes of Nemo before the player died but happened to be as we prepared for our landing. Once we handed I could taste the air and feel the jet lag start to kick in a bit. So to make this part quick Derek grabbed the rental with West and Mags and I grabbed the luggage. I know that must seem odd that I got the luggage but that's just how it happened. It's not like I knew where to go get the car anyway. This was my first time here!

Once we loaded up and headed out I was excited. Then Derek almost got us in an accident. THen I was a bit nervous. As we pulled into the neighbor hood I couldn't wait to be, well, Home. It seemed, although a relatively smooth transition, a very long transition to this new place where we would be raising our growing family. But when we opened that door and I looked at this wonderful house that was ours I finally felt at peace!

In-transit

2011-07-18T11:44:00.000-07:00

Gosh where do I begin. After leaving the good state of California we headed to Utah to say our last good-bye's/see you laters to our extended family and friends. We spent nearly two weeks there. In a nut shell we all (Mom, West and Mag's) got sick the very next morning after a=flying in. So we spent the first 4-5 days sick as dogs and miserable. I was by far the worst and felt like death laying lethargic on the couch. It's a good thing for Grandma's who have no problem scooping up the kiddies are out of commission. So I clocked out for a few days. But we still had lots of fun. There is so much to cover so I'm going to cheat and do a lighting quick recap. After all there are 26 photos of this post!!

West discovered the 4-wheeler. Despite his facial expression he LOVED them and requested a ride every evening!

He enjoyed running around in his britches, as Nana says, playing baseball all day and winded down with an evening drive! He was so cute "driving" big red in the drive way. Still drives to climb in the drivers seat each time we go somewhere.

Mag's got in some vitamin D!

We also got in A LOT of bathes! Here they are after their 1st bath together! (Fact: West's first "together" bath was with the twins. I heard it was a blast!)

West "hung" out with his big kids cousins, he especially loved "hanging" out with Jansen. He has always had a fondness for him.

Sitting with Jansen..

Tickling Jansen...

Chasing and hugging Jansen! Hugging Hawk!

"Wrestling" Jansen! Ha! Or something like that. Jansen was a good sport and didn't seem to mind all the extra attention too much.

Mag's just cuddled her way through the vacation. She dropped her head with the location of each and every willing shoulder and chest!

Or lap! (Daddy' lap in Bear Lake)

We also got a chance to go see our friends and their adorable kids. With Cache and Kobe at the game...

With Daddy and Uncle Al...

And of course this is what Mag thought of baseball. What can I say, for us latin girls, baseball is somewhat of an aquired taste. Took me 4 years.

Then we got together at Uncle Mac's for a BBQ. The older kids hit the swings while the smaller ones were cuddle buddies. Our newest bud Holden! So freakin' cute I might add!

Love this photo of Cache!

But as this was a trip it too had to come to an end. Starting with Jo-do and Sagen, who's name I probably spelt wrong. They left early on a road trip so we had to say farewell a little sooner.

And of course any trip anywere would not be complete unless West picked himself up a new girlfriend! Well lucky for her! She just left on a mission and chances are of all the guys, West will definatly be around when she gets back home!! LOL!

So here we go folk on to good old Pennsylvania and our NEW life!!

Our Final Moment in Oakland

2011-07-08T12:25:00.000-07:00

With our departure just a couple hours away, there was really only one last thing to do...

See you on the other side!

P.S: Thanks to Nate & Kimber for letting us use their bed! :o)

Thank You

2011-07-08T12:20:00.000-07:00

You guys are so awesome, you deserve your very own post! With your very own extra large photo that you snuck of yourselves on our camera!

Love you guys!! In case you didn't notice as of two posts ago you achieved Uncle & Auntie status! Boo Yah!

Your Welcome!

:o)

The Dress

2011-07-08T12:16:00.000-07:00

Nothing does this dress justice like seeing it on a gorgeous model! Yup, definitely worth it!

This post is mostly for me. I made Margaret's blessing dress and it took me about 6 long months. I had never taken on such a large challenge and I'm glad I did. It's too bad Mag's came out a little chunkier than I had anticipated! But it still fit, barely! So here it is, to give proof to all my efforts for my chunky munk!

Blessing and a Birthday

2011-07-08T12:03:00.000-07:00

Looking back on this weekend I can't begin to tell you how thankful I am that it's OVER! And in the same breath I absoloutly didn't want it to end. The last week of May, just after my birthday and the Graduation ball our family flew out to help with our move to Pennsylvania. Since everyone would be here we thought, I thought, " What a great oppurtunity to have Mag's Baby Blessing and an early birthday party for West!" It's just too bad our apartment was in boxes and I was still in a sore recovery from giving birth.

Some come that Sunday we all got dressed up and headed to Church. I almost forgot to mention that we both spoke at Church that Sunday as well. As our Bishop said "It's seems to be a Florek farewell". First thing was first. Once we were all settled and finished rounding up family Derek took Maggie up to the front with our family and dearest friends who were able to make it and gave her a name and a blessing. Of course I was a bit teary eyed, but I was also trying hard to remember the things he said so that I'd be able to write them down for he later. Then we both talked. The talks went well, I think I spoke a bit too long, but I was too emotional to be bothered with time constraints. As Derek began his talk the chapel began "to weep" (aka leak). I didn't say weep, the Bishop did, but it did make for a memoral last Sunday.

After we finally made out of the chapel, hugging and crying every few feet it seemed, we snapped a few family photos. There wasn't as much time to stop and enjoy the moment this time. Too many people, hungry people, tired kids and no amateur photographer to take advantage of. Because I forgot to ask in advance of course! Like I said, glad its all over. Then there was the party...

That's right the little guy was 2 months shy of two and I couldn't allow him to celebrate his birthday without all his little friends he's known since we was born. So I baked a cake, sewed up a banner and wrapped a few gifts. It was great. Uncle Jake and Auntie Rachel let us have the party at their place since ours was a war zone. We BBQ'd burgers, enjoyed some cream soda's, watched the kids go nuts with their train whistles and watched West attack yet another Birthday cake.

Three methods of consumption... Fork, dismemberment and big boy bites

Balloons!!!

He was way excited about the plethora of Doggie gifts. Just didn't capture it on camera.

Not all of our friends were able to make it to the party but we still had a great time. It was probably better that way. Because once it was over I was doing all I could to stop myself from collapsing on the floor. And I'd prefer to do that in front of as few people as possible. If that doesn't make it memorable I don't know what would! I'm not too sure if he'll remember that when he's 20, but I'll be sure to remind him of that for the rest of his life!! :o)

And Since we rushed out of Church we grabbed a few last photos with Margaret at the party.

Good-Bye hug for his buddy Ath!

This moment alone was worth all the chaos!

Graduation: Hello Doctor Florek

2011-07-01T13:04:00.000-07:00

On May 27th 2011 I watched my sweet husband walk across the stage after 4 hard years of studying and be hooded as a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine. Together with his parter in Crime, J, they have spent countless hours together studying, working at the cadaver labs, sleeping through class, scavenging for free food from around campus and cutting more than their share of toe nails in the endless hours of rotation after rotation. So incase we have not told you guys enough, we are so proud of you!

Derek's Dad with his denial face! Yes...even those manly eyes got "misty"!

Of course our parents all came out for the big event as did Derek's siblings. It was such a great day filled with many tears from everyone. Yes, including both genders thank you very much!

In case you're wondering, his Sisters are not twins!

And his Brother is not any type of thug! LOL! Although with that facial hair you never can be too sure! Couldn't help it Al. Had to mention it.

Our buddy Aiden showed up to support the boys! You guys are the best!

The Doctor and the Doctors Wife!

The Doctor and his "other Wife"! Kind of an inside joke! We always teased them that if something ever happened to J and I they would be alright as long as they had each other. That's what happens when you share a peach! LOL!

LDS Class of 2011

(Missing our friend Kristen! Dang it!)

LDS Wives Class of 2011

(Of course missing Dave, Kristin's hubby! He still can be in the Wives Class!)

So to all of our friends...WE DID IT! We all survived with a couple bruses and tons of debt! But it was worth it. You we're all worth knowing. We know we've made some amazing life long friends along the way.

So hats off to the SMU Class of 2011! Here's to making it through Residency!

Graduation Ball

2011-07-01T12:24:00.000-07:00

To start, I really wish I had an embarrassing photo of J&J eating their dinner to post as my main photo! But life isn't always fair. ;o)

We had been waiting for this night for a while, Janelle and I. Why? Because it meant we go to go SHOPPING!!! Without our kids! Well without 3 kids, Mag's was a given since she was barely 2 weeks old. But we hit some of the stores in town having a few laughs as we tried on dresses from Sunshine Brazilian Yellow to Bright Pink. Shockingly enough we didn't find a dress that day! But we both had better luck during our birthdays. J and I share birthday week! Come the GRaduation Ball we both looked pretty good! It's amazing what an hour and a half of shower, hair and make-up time can do for a Mom!

(Yes..I'm sucking it in for dear life! Have mercy on the women who just had a baby and keep the honesty to yourselves! Ha!)

Now I really thought I had grabbed more photos that night but I think it was to dark and we decided to just wait till graduation. Or maybe they got deleted? Who knows. Either way, the food was DELICIOUS, our dates were HOTTIES and we weren't too shabby ourselves. I'd like to say we danced the night away till 2am. But considering I was still recuperating and all I was spent by 10:30. But we did finish the night off with the Sundae bar!

O-town Good-Byes

2011-07-01T12:08:00.000-07:00

Well here it is, my official first blogging post from the Humid State of Pennsylvania! Ok, that just sounds so weird. I mean when you grow up in California your whole life you never imagine you'll say "I live in Pennsylvania"! But that's life. So there are so many things that happened before we left. So lets get started.

Here is a photo of Margaret at just 2 weeks. My Grandmother gave her this vintage Doll she's had for a long time in hopes that one day she would have a granddaughter. So we'll be using it as a measuring stick. We tried to visit GG as much as we cold before we left considering we only had a couple weeks. So that was one visit. THe last was for GG's 90th Birthday bash. While we were there we got to say Good-Bye to all our family on my Dad's side. That included West's cousin Lucas. Seriously, he is such a doll. they had fun just being outside while my Cousin blew tons of bubbles in the air.

West was absolutely mesmerized by all the bubbles. Its moments like this I wish he would just stay small forever. His curiosity for life is just amazing.

Now, considering we had a practically 2 year old and a two week old I think this photo came out pretty good! I mean, you can see everyone's faces right? That's all we can ask for sometimes.

After the Birthday party we just stayed home and waited around for some of the dreaded goodbyes. Yes, these were pretty brutal(understatement). One of the firsts was the Twins. In reality I don' think they really got what was happening since they were like "Bye" and then booking in either direction to go about their day. But we did. I feel terrible for al my good-byes, since well, I tried to be a void of emotion. I would let all my friends embrace me and choke back the tears while they got all disheveled. When they said bye I would just nod and wave. LOL! I'm sorry ladies. But with postpartum hitting hard and having to pack I couldn't loose my bearings

Oh Amy! I hope you forgive me. Neither of us showered this day so we weren't thrilled with the thought of taking a photo but knew it would be our last one together.

The next good-bye was on my Birthday...

( My birthday gift from West)

It was a repeat for me. Three years ago on my birthday our frieds Scott and Toni had left on my Birthday. They lived in our building, so we spent so much time together. Having dinners, game nights, movie nights, you name it! So it was Scott and Toni all over again, except we were Scott and Toni. And despite what you might think "Dimber", I lost it the moment we drove away.

Can I just add how much West freakin' LOVES Nate! Don't let that face fool you. He still asks "Where Nate go Momma?"

However, I'm confident Mag's would have loved Kimber the most!

As the days went on I noticed that all the Good-Byes got progressively worst. East probably slowly eating away at my armor I had put up. But there was one, THE ONE, that really caught me off guard. Perhaps because I always just have seen this person as a fortress of strength. Someone who can roll with the best of them and someone I highly admire. But when "they", to remain gender neutral, started to cry...ball even I just lost it. It's those few moments when you realize just how much your friends love you and how much they mean to you.

Daddy's little Girl

2011-05-21T07:23:00.000-07:00

So with these last couple photos, Good-Bye everyone. My life is officially an unorganized and chaotic whirlwind. I'll miss you all. Wish us luck!

Hi GG !

2011-05-21T07:16:00.000-07:00

GG just loves her great-grand babies! I only wish she had more time to spend with them before we leave. But with one last visit today we'll have to make the most of the time they get together! Love you Grandma!

"Bye Mommy"

2011-05-21T07:11:00.000-07:00

And those were his last words to me as my little boy gleefully ran out the front door to his first ever time away from home and his mommy ever in his whole nearly 2 years of life! Let's just say I could barely muster out "Bye" in response. He's all grown up!

Papa & Nana

2011-05-21T07:06:00.000-07:00

It was very short lives but the day after we got home for the hospital, Margaret got to meet her Nana & Papa for the first time! I have more pictures but given we are moving, graduating, birthdaying, packing and preparing for parties they will have to wait. In the mean time you get my last 4 min posts to tie you over until probably July when we have finally acclimated to our new life and hopefully established a bit or normalcy!

Margaret's Story

2011-05-18T22:44:00.000-07:00

(Note: This is a long story! But I promise there will be plenty of photos to go with it!)

Where should I begin? On August 31, 2010 I found out at routine check-up that I was pregnant with my second child. On September 2nd I was told by my midwife that I was just barely pregnant. An on September 16th we found out that just barely was correct as we were only 5 weeks and 3 days along! It was then that I thought this would be along pregnancy. I mean 5 weeks!! That's just barely after ovulation! But here I am nearly 2 weeks after the birth of our little girl trying to find the words to tell her little story. So this pregnancy was anything but slow.

But lets press onto the good stuff. At my 34 week appointment I found out that like my previous pregnancy I was already dilating and effacing. I also found out that my midwife was leaving on vacation in a couple weeks. So she moved my two week appointment to the following week to check things out. She then told us there was a good chance that she wouldn't be at the birth! Well that's unexpected! But who knows. So we decided to wait till next week. So the next week rolled around an it was decided. She gave us about 2 weeks to get ready and gave us our 3 signs of when to go to the hospital. And as a side note she said this one would be quick, maybe 5 minutes of pushing! Like I've mentioned before, she amazing and I do take her words as pearls of truths.

(My midwife Hsiu-Li with Margaret, she delivered West)

Well to make this next long story short, 2 weeks came and went. As did the month of April. We walked well over 25 miles in those two weeks and I ate as much spicy food as I would find. But it wasn't meant to be. Everything we hoped for, an April birth, was now gone. So who cared when she came now. Let's just hope she comes out!

Happy it's over!

Me with the awesome CNM Gina, my CNM Hsiu-Li and my sweetheart of a nurse Sandy

On May 5th at 6am I woke up to use the little Lady's room. After those "happenings" I went to tell Derek " I think my water broke". Not a real "break" but the small little ones that leave you guessing. Either way Derek hoped out of bed and called in work that he was skipping. I'm not sure how we "knew" but we just had a feeling that it was happening. So I went and got myself dolled up. I mean if this was my one chance to look good while giving birth, why not! That's when they started, my contractions. From 6:15-7am I had irregular little uncomfortable contraction. Then from 7am-8am I had regular, you have to start pausing contractions. Then at 8am they started to get a bit more erratic, but still growing with intensity. Hoping my Mom was almost there, since we called at 6am, we were shocked to hear she hadn't left yet. So plan B, Corene!! Within 15 minutes she was at the house and I was now in a state of discomfort. By 8:30 we were en route to the hospital and it was a good thing too.

No words

She hated being cleaned up

I really love this photo, not sure why

Once we arrived at the hospital the contractions were painful enough that there was no way I was walking into the hospital. So Derek, not so calmly, ran inside and got a wheelchair. Now that I think about it, it was kind of like a movie! We made it to triage, where we were left for about an hour, and then found out I was at a 5+ and good to get admitted. Not that the fact that I was in terrible pain on the bed was an indicator of labor! So around 10:15 we were finally in our delivery room. Can I just say now, for the record, how unbelievably painful this labor was! Um, yes my lovely daughter, you put me in a world of hurt. But then something miraculous happened. At about 10:35 I said "I think I have to push" and in a whirlwind of events I was then on the bed, with a now "broken" water and at station1. Which is code for I've already completely dilated and the baby is already starting to cruise on out! What's left, oh yes, at 10:49am on May 5th I gave birth to a 8lb. 9oz. , 21.5inch and completely healthy baby girl!

I have to hand it to Hsiu-Li. It was quick, just over 2 hours of labor and less than 10 minutes of pushing! In fact it was so quick that even though she was back from vacation, Hsiu-Li missed the delivery by 2 minutes!

Meeting Baby Sister for the first time. He was absolutely in love with her!

Looks like she's already got these two guys wrapped around her finger!

Now this is were I'm supposed to get all sentimental. And I actually did, but somehow that paragraph miraculously disappeared in the posting process. So I'll take another stab at it. For some reason, little known to me, this delivery was profoundly different. Part of me thinks it's the fact that I was in so much pain that I couldn't wait to push to end my suffering. But whatever it was it really hit me. Seeing this little girl as we grabbed her and brought her to me chest was overwhelming. All I could muster was "My baby girl" in one of those trembling voices. I felt as if I had been waiting forever for her to arrive. I just hope the feeling was mutual, that somewhere deep down she was just as overjoyed to finally be with us. Are family now has changed because of her, forever in fact, in a very literal sense. I just hope that I can be the Mother she deserves and that I will always love her for the Daughter of our Heavenly Father that I know her to be. I'm so grateful for this time, for this chance, that she now become our Daughter. I love you very much Margaret. There is that trembling scratchy voice thing I mentioned. Just don't ever let me forget!

Naked Baby Alert

2011-05-18T17:06:00.000-07:00

( I think he just really wanted to go potty!)

I think he was trying to warn us that Naked Baby Day was fast approaching. Because 24 hours later is when we left to the hospital to get our very own Naked little Baby Girl!

:o)

P.S: He was actually smiling and laughing but it took to many tries to get an "appropriate" shot that he got bored of waiting for me!

Beach Bums

2011-05-18T17:02:00.000-07:00

(It's like he knew he was saying "Good-Bye")

Who knew this last outing would be our last to the Alameda Beach! It was so unusual to go to playgroups and events and know that it would probably be our last time there. But we must not dwell on the negatives! That day was a beautiful day, too bad Amy forgot to put on sun block! It's OK my little lobster I still love you! :o)

(L: Amy & the Twins, M: Mom & West, R: K and A)

And of course we can't forget Little Miss! She was getting her dosage of Vitamin D!

38 Weeks

2011-05-18T15:40:00.000-07:00

Here I am for what would be my last Sunday belly photo shot. I was just 38 weeks along and really bummed that I hadn't had the baby yet. I mean, my midwife is GOOD so I pretty must take everything she says as truth. She said 2 weeks! But then again, I was delivering a girl. And as we all know too well, a women can't be rush. We are ready when we say we're ready. But to close the official series of Belly Baby #2 (aka Margaret), here is my last photo taken minutes before we left to the hospital.

(L: 38 weeks & 4 days , R: 38 weeks exactly)

I have to say I did better at gaining more baby weigh as opposed to just Mommy weight! :o) If you disagree just don't tell me. But she sure is sticking out there like a little torpedo! Note to self, black PJ bottoms are far more flattering and discrete than gray ones! And in case you're wondering, Yes I did have both of my kids in my 38th week of pregnancy...huh, funny!

CINCO DE MAYO

2011-05-07T15:57:00.000-07:00

Introducing Little Miss...

Margaret

05.05.11

8lbs. 9oz

21.5 in.

10:49am

To be continued...

Easter Sunday

2011-05-03T14:30:00.000-07:00

(6 years ago on Easter Sunday Derek asked me to marry him! Bet you didn't know that!)

I have to say this Easter Sunday was extra great for me. Although I missed half of class time because I was cutting and passing out "Easter" cake I spent the time I did have in class with my Mom! Yup, this year my Mom decided to come out to us for Easter and even came out to church with us. It was so nice. After church she snagged a photo of us up at the temple together.

After nap time we decided to have an early dinner ( Ham of course) and then squeeze in some egg colring. West had a blast and so did his Dad! He is such a kid sometimes, I love it.

All in all it was a great day of remembering our Savior and spending time together as a family. What more can you ask for!

Easter Fun

2011-05-03T13:03:00.000-07:00

(Despite my puffy face it's still photographic evidence that I'm alive! Take what you can get right?)

This year we had such a great Easter weekend. Yea, last year was cute, it being West's first and all. But this year he knew what was going on and just loved every moment of it. All of our friends were invited to our Friends families house/ranch. It was so great. We got to spend all our time outdoors barbecuing and chatting while the kids enjoyed the safety of a HUGE enclosed yard that went on for days! Well at least it seemed that huge for us apartment dwellers without the luxury of a yard.

Once the eating was done it was out the door for the eggs. Even though some of the bigger kids had an advantage, all the small fries still had a blastt running half the yards length for a single egg.

Once we were egged out we had some more play time and headed to the hot tub! Even me! That's right, don't worry birthing pools are 98-103 degrees so it was perfectly safe. By the time the kids splashed to their hearts desire it was time for bed.

It was the perfect way to spend the weekend. Just spending time in our huge friend family. The sad thing is that might be the last time we all will be getting together. Time is running so short and there is so much to do now. But that's what photos are for, right!

36 Weeks

2011-04-18T16:24:00.000-07:00

I've been falling behind on the belly updates. Needless to say I'm getting pretty big now being 36 weeks. Or should we say more around 38. As of my last weeks appointment my Midwife said I'll probably be delivering before she gets back from vacation, which is the 2nd of May. And we don't think we're just that early. But given we were dated at 5weeks of the pregnancy there is a far greater window of error when the object your measuring is smaller than a grain of rice.

Either way, we're not too occupied with my exact weeks but we're eager to get a better time frame of when to expect the little peanut. I guess today would be a good time to get that hospital packed and get the car seat ready to load. In the mean time here is a belated 32 week shot, 36 weeks and 36 weeks in the comparable set. I thought we should compare me in the same outfit I had been wearing during my first pregnancy photos at the end for a better measure of the two kiddos.

(L: 32 Weeks; R: 36 Weeks)

(L: 36 Weeks w/ Baby Girl; R: 36 Weeks w/ West)

Wowzers! My tummy is sticking way out there with this one! And if it's true that we're 2 weeks ahead of schedule coupled with the fact that she's apparently already 7lbs, I guess that explains it all!

Spoiled

2011-04-18T15:56:00.000-07:00

With baby number two you really have just about all the basic things you need. I mean, you already have a crib, a dresser, burp rags you name it! So when we were asked what we might want for a "bigger" gift this time around there was only one thing on my mind...

That's right, a not double wide, way more awesome double stroller from Phil and Ted! We finally got the chance to test drive it last weekend. Since our Buddy Ath came along and is already accustomed to being top rider in his stroller we figured we'd let him have shot gun. West didn't mind one bit. The second the stroller was up he hoped right into the little co-pilots seat.

Can I just say what great invention this was! So thank you Phil and Ted for coming up with a stylish way to tote around two kids, in over 6 configurations I might add, and still have it be light enough to push up hill! And thank you to loving parents who like to spoil their kids and grand kids! :o)

Baby Boy

2011-04-18T15:47:00.000-07:00

It's been an interesting past couple weeks. There have been small instances where I feel like West may not adapt as well as we might hope to the new baby. But of course there are times when he seem pretty excited. Just 2 weeks ago we finally got the bassinet set up and ready to go. The next morning when I was getting dressed I turned around to see this...

Tha's right. He took dibs on the baby's bed. We spent the whole week crawling in and out of it and lying down. We just hope he refrains from doing that while she's taking a nap. Last week, we were babysitting double H. He was a litte fussy that day since he hand't napped yet so I decided to sing to him. It works with West so why not. So I started to sing the first song I could think of. But it happened t be one of West's night time songs. Immediatly his little chin started to shake and his head dropped. He started to cry and then ran screaming down the hall into his room. I think itss safe to assume he felt like he was being replaced.

Then this week while Daddy was reading our bed time books our little boy just slowly drifted to sleep in Daddy's lap. West is not the type of kid who falls asleep in our arms like that. As long as something is going on he's wide awake. For a small moment it was like we still had our little Baby Boy, just in a much bigger body.

Whimsical Wedding

2011-04-18T14:43:00.000-07:00

I think its safe to say that I've been able to keep myself fairly busy recently. In March particularly I threw a wedding reception with the help of our squad of amazing SAHM's! And although I'd love to show every detail of the wedding I don't have the time to down load all the photos from my friends link. So I will share one. It's probably one of my favorite details...the CAKE!

My friend J and I split up the baking duty and I went to town with the decorating. I just love making cakes. I don't know why but its just really rewarding to finish and know that I've created a small piece of art upon an edible canvas. So until I have a free hour or two this will have to do. But I do think it captured the essence of the wedding. It was whimsical, playful with some simple elegance!

So a belated Congratulations to our dear friends Isaac & Kristin! Thanks for letting us all be a part of your special day!

Cleanse #1

2011-04-01T17:11:00.000-07:00

For all the moments that I don't have my camera I'm always grateful for cell phones! I just hate having to remmeber to upload all the photos and somehow manage to list or preserve them in some type of chronological order. But alas, that just won't happen. So instead I've decided to do a couple posts a week of my camera cleansing process. These of course will just be some of my favorites or important moments. Enjoy!

(L: waiting for baby sisters ultrasound, R: After a walk at the lake, even when he sleeps he is possessive of his shoes)

(Christmas Day volunteering with the Salvation Army in Turlock!)

(L: Even at the fabric stores he finds doggies, R: Second day in Nursery (Jan'11))

(Our little "Three Amigos" or "Triplets")

(L: My little boy with his little boy tie @18 months, R: One of our first tantrums!)

Change

2011-03-21T22:44:00.000-07:00

Do you always hear that saying that "change is good". Lets think about that for a moment while I have a stole down memory lane...

4 years ago we moved to Oakland...

SF Pier with SMU...

Derek's first first day of Podiatry School...

Making new, miniature sized friends...

Saying good-bye to grown up friends...

Finding new grown-up friends...

Meeting your "super" excellent twiner best friends...

Not so twiners....

Adding permanent pieces to our puzzle...

And watching that puzzle evolve into something we never could have envisioned 4 years ago....

and then some...

So people say change is good. I agree. But right now it's so hard to understand and see how this next big change can possibly be so good when it feels like its taking us away from a place where we became a family. Where everything and everyone we know has become part of nothing short of our amazingly memorable life. So I just have to have faith to think that somehow in 3 years when I look back on the change that's taken place, it somehow might compare to the wonderful changes we've had these past 4 years. Even though right now, that feels absolutely impossible. So here is to a heavy heart filled with hope that we don't forget the city and people that made us a family.

And in the words of some guy who printed a t-shirt... " I hella 'heart' Oakland". Forgive my vocabulary but I needed something to stop me from crying!

Somethings Homemade

2011-03-18T18:42:00.000-07:00

Lately I've bbe crafting like crazy. I've had an auction to prep for at church, a friends birthday and of course the anticipation of myo wn little girl. So crochet away I went. I swear my husband thinks I'm a crochet factory by now. It all started with the mauve colored beanie with the clip for little Miss. But what is a hat without matching shoes so...

Then I thought why not make some for Auction? So I did. Just three sizes. Each one had its own clip, wither a flower clip of a bow. Then I thought, how adorable is this bow!! I wish there was a way for a lady to enjoy such a cute accessory. So I thought, "Hey it's my friend Birthday". She loves being my crafting gift receiving guinea pig! So crochet again I went but this time a cap with a bow...

I wish I had a photo of her wearing it but alas that wasn't possible. So I had to do for size reference. But then I thought " Where does one stoer all these wonderful frills?". So away I went with making framed chicken ire boards to clip and tuck you many treasure. I made wuite a few but only had energy to photogrpah and set one up since they were all tucked away for auction

All in all it was a busy last couple months. Now I just have about 6 weeks left to wrap up my latest and most important crochet project. A darling blessing dress for our little girl. With any luck I'll finish in time and be able to get to the booties and bonnet too! Wish me luck!

28 weeks: Third Trimester

2011-03-08T21:00:00.000-08:00

It's like getting to the final chapter of a book! Except I know how it's going to end. I just can't believe how quickly the time has passed. Now it's just time for her to put on the pounds...fun! Ha!

Hello Lucas

2011-03-08T20:45:00.000-08:00

OK, how is it that we just met my cousin's baby who is nearly 6 months!? Gosh don't new parent's have absolutely nothing to do but make time for every single person in the world to come adore their first born! Ha! Yea right. Welcome to the Mommy & Daddy club, where all things baby are unpredictable. And despite this adorable moment of sleep deprivation he is a doll! And of course like any true little boy, he stops crying when you start to toss him in the air!

Welcome to the family little guy!