The Mahl Family

Thanksgiving at the Beach

2011-12-05T10:57:00.001-08:00

We spent Thanksgiving in Ft. Meyers Beach, Florida with my mom, Pappy Mike and two family friends.

We had a great time relaxing, shell searching and eating.

The girls kayaked for the first time ,alone...so proud of them. I did it too (sorry no photos to prove it).

We found some crabs!

Playing in the leaves

2011-11-14T05:00:00.000-08:00

We raked and raked some more to make the biggest pile we could!

They jumped in and had the best time.

It brought back childhood memories for me and made new memories for them.

It is sad to see all the trees losing their beautiful color but I know God will bless us with the colors again next year.

It's Fall Y'all

2011-10-31T04:59:00.000-07:00

It has been such a blessing to see all of the leaves changing this year. It has been a long time since we enjoyed true fall weather.

These pictures are shots that have been taken around North Carolina and Pennsylvania. We had two corn maze adventures and a trip to the NC Zoo. We even ate lunch at The Pit in downtown Raleigh. This eastern Carolina BBQ restaurant was featured on Man vs. food on the travel channel. Yummy yummy! This is where I had my first taste of black eyed peas:) The homemade mac and cheese was a hit with Emilee and Ashley enjoyed her Cheeseburger. Chris ate some yummy ribs and pulled pork.

The trees are turning red, yellow and orange! Each day our neighborhood gets more colorful. It is cold in the morning when I take the girls to school...38 baby!! Enjoy the sights, wish my San Diego Peeps could be here to enjoy them with me.

driving through my neighborhood I snapped a crocked photo on my phone

NC zoo

Fun in PA Mom, Aunt karen and I

The girls had spirit week at school, this was the "Geek" look

Corn maze in NC, it was a warm day!

Old Salem Field Trip

2011-10-07T07:50:00.001-07:00

Emilee and I recently took a trip to Winston Salem, NC on a fifth grade trip.

Lots of historical sites to see and learn about.

It was a beautiful fall day, we had a great time.

Rainy Saturday Thoughts

2011-09-17T11:27:00.000-07:00

Love that I am getting my laundry done and ready for the week ahead.
It may be too early but I have my harvest garden flag out and 2 happy scarecrows on my front porch.
Loving the cool days and the rain after a week of hot and humid yuck.
Missing my San Diego friends :( Love to you all xoxox
Thankful for 2 amazing neighbors who I can hang out and chat with while the girls play.
I made some fun name plates for the girls room....with paper of course that is my craft of choice:)
Sassy daughters are driving me insane !!!!!!!!!
It is nice and quiet upstairs, does that mean they are up to something or just simply getting along?
We are loving our new hometown and all the shopping and restaurants close by. Tonight we are going to try a new place:) We need to get out of the house sometime today.
Working out has become fun, wow, I do really enjoy going to the gym again.

Playtime

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

We took a 2 hour drive to the Wrightsville Beach, it was so worth the drive. White sand full of so many shells. The Atlantic Ocean is warm enough for even mommy to go in. Girls had a blast playing in the waves, collecting shells, and making "drippy" castles in the sand.

wipe out

You have a minute to win it! A new game for us to play, I rock!! Emilee is a close second!

angel hair pasta and penna fun!

Here is our street with the beginning of Hurricane Irene on her way in

We survived the storm

weather in North Carolina is way more exciting than Southern Cal.

Sometimes a bit scary but it is an adventure for sure.

Exploring Raleigh

2011-08-22T06:31:00.001-07:00

This past weekend we ventured out to downtown Raleigh. It is much smaller than any downtown that I have been too. It was a humid day so we found a nice java cafe and Ashley enjoyed a peach Popsicle, Emilee munched on a giant peanut butter cookie, and Chris and I had the best smoothie ever. The downtown streets were closed down and they were hosted a car show for us to see.

This old church is beautiful.

State Capital building

Museum of Natural History

Free everyday and it is so cool!!!

Take a look inside

4 floors of fun for the whole family

Ashley was so afraid that a butterfly was going to land on her!

replica of the Liberty Bell

Good Times

next weekend the kids museum!

First Day of School

2011-08-15T07:23:00.001-07:00

7:15 this morning we headed out for the drive to their new school

No uniforms !!!

Girls love it,

mom not a fan:(

After driving through the carpool lane the girls were escorted to their teachers. No more walking the girls in to class or even to their line up. It was like the first day of kindergarten for Chris and I. Dropping them off with strangers to a new school. Looking forward to hearing about all the details of the day.

The journey to Raleigh,NC

2011-08-08T12:55:00.000-07:00

Our moving truck arrived early and stayed late to load our house

First Stop, Flagstaff, AZ

Cooper did so well, she slept most of the drive each day.

We stopped in Holbrook, AZ

Chris and I lived there for 2 years before moving to San Diego

Yes, you can sleep in these.

The Painted Dessert and Petrified Forest was the only sightseeing we did along the way.

Traveling with a cat does not allow for much stopping and looking at sights. Especially when it is 100+ degrees

Everything is Bigger in TEXAS

Not something that one would ever see in California

North Carolina finally

after 5 days of driving

This lake is close to our new home and it is where mom and mike are staying.

It is so pretty and the kids can swim in the Lake.

More photos to come soon!

Five on Friday

2011-02-04T10:31:00.000-08:00

It has officially been three months since my last post. thinking about just shutting the blog down, no time:( making this quick, with just a few random thoughts.
Since my last post everyone in our house has turned one year older.
This is the longest I have lived in a house since Chris and I were married.
Chris and I were born in the same hospital 7 days apart!!
It is sure cold here in San Diego...brr

Five on Friday

2010-12-03T13:46:00.000-08:00

It has been WAY TOO LONG since I posted.
Very Busy getting Ready to celebrate 3 birthdays-- Jesus, Emilee, and Ashley!!
Looking forward to a nice weekend at home after our crazy but amazing Thanksgiving road trip.
Not too thrilled about the new changes at weight watchers...we shall see what is really up at my meeting tomorrow.
The holiday time really is not a great time to diet and eat great. There are way to many yummy foods out right now.
I can not believe that by the end of this year I will have an 8 and 10 year old in my house!! Where did the time go?

Part 2 of Harvest Activities

2010-11-03T10:35:00.001-07:00

Handing out candy at home after trick or treatingFun times at Church

Chris on the bucking bronco

Ashley decided that a farmer girl was a much better choice for riding the rides and slides at the harvest carnival. It is hard to climb when one has a mermaid tail.

Harvest Celebrations Part One

2010-10-31T12:55:00.000-07:00

On saturday we took the girls to the local shopping center for some safe and fun trick or treating!! WOW lots of candy filled their bags. After that we headed down to Sea World for their treat or treating event. LOTS more candy!!! Tonight we hit our church for the Harvest Fair. Now we are off to carve our pumpkin.

Summer Fun Review

2010-09-20T10:29:00.000-07:00

Padre Game At Petco

Disneyland

Emilee being silly with dress up clothes

Five on Friday

2010-09-17T14:00:00.000-07:00

Competed my first week of teaching preschool!!! What great kids God has brought to our school.
I did not take a back to school picture of my girls this year and am feeling SO guilty about that. I think we will pretend next week!
Looking forward to the fall TV line up...football, Parenthood, Survivor, Amazing Race, just to name a few.
Today is my Mom's Birthday...sending out our love to her across the miles until her visit in a few weeks.
Plans for the weekend ( not in any particular order) pumpkin latte, movies, PJ's,and a much needed haircut

A sneak peak

2010-07-05T19:24:00.000-07:00

Getting Ready for our River Float with a few rapids thrown in...FUN!

Beautiful Glacier BayMining for Gold in the Cold

Rainy day Train ride

WE were SO cold

Chris on the Zipline...I was here too, just not a photo to show for it.

Our home away from home

Daddy and his girls

2010-06-22T17:36:00.000-07:00

Chris and the girls had a blast on the waverunner.

Next time Mommy gets a ride!

dollar dress ups

2010-06-06T20:01:00.000-07:00

This idea was from a Susie post

I used dollar cards and dressed them up!

It was lots of creative fun!!!

The lighting was horrible when I took the pictures but I loved the color combination.

I have had these cards for at least 1 year and never knew what to do with them.

Thanks Susie!

This is the original

Still Here, Just Resting

2010-05-20T16:39:00.000-07:00

As the school/work year is coming to an end I am finding myself very busy and exhausted. I am ready for lazy summer mornings and the easy days at the beach. But until then, there is still homework to check, bedtimes to keep and lunches to pack (YUCK)!

So I have not posted for awhile because I am just too tired and my camera has been taking a rest.

Mother's Day Adventures

2010-05-10T08:12:00.001-07:00

After a nice lunch at Islands we headed to Torrey Pines and had a nice hike and enjoyed the beautiful views.

Happy Easter

2010-04-04T14:53:00.001-07:00

Emilee made an appearance on the big screen

The girls singing in the kids choir @ church this morning. Can you find them?

Blessings to you and you family.

He is not here, He has risen. Luke 24:6

Five on Friday

2010-04-02T09:13:00.000-07:00

My mom is still in town and staying though Easter! We are having a blast. The girls have been spending time with Nana and Pappy Mike at their campground. Mom and I have been shopping, relaxing and carpooling the kids around.
Spring Break for me and the girls has officially begun.
I slept in today until 8, that is a record for me.
Last night I enjoyed a mini chocolate mocha at Golden Spoon, Yummy!
Looking forward to a beautiful Easter. The girls are singing in the kids choir, what a special way to praise our Savior, they are so thrilled to be a part of it.

Santa Barbara and Channel Island Trip

2010-03-27T11:17:00.000-07:00

While my mom visited we spent the weekend in Ventura County. We took a boat from Oxnard to the smallest of the channel Islands...Anacapa!! It was beautiful.

This is mom and I on the beach by the Ventura Pier

The seagulls were in abundance on the Island and the flowers were in full bloom.

My camera battery died halfway through our exploration of the Island but on the way back to the mainland we saw 100's of dolphins

10 on Tuesday

2010-03-02T16:26:00.000-08:00

God's beautiful promise appeared in our neighborhoodTeam Banner

Pinewood Derby with Daddy

Disneyland"s Storybook Land Ride

It has been awhile since I posted a 10!! Lots going on in our family so hang on here we go!!!!!!!!!!

Over Feb. Vacation I took the girls to Disney for the first time solo ( without Daddy) It went great. I did not know that there were so many rides that were 3 seaters!!

Emilee was nominated to play on the all star basketball team but did not win the votes. Which is fine because softball has started again!!

Ashley has started Rhythmic gymnastics and is loving it.

So between gymnastics and softball practice & games we have been busy.

I worked an extra day last week and was exhausted. I did get to sub for a great teacher and I really enjoyed it. It gave me a little itch to maybe teach again!

Let's see...oh I volunteered to make the team banner for Em's softball team and I am proud of the finished product. At first I thought that I was way over my head but after I got some ideas it went great!

The girls are singing in the children's choir at church on Easter so we added Sunday practices to our list of things to do. Chris and I get a little date time out of it though, so it is all good.

We are considering getting a dog again but this time it will be small and hopefully already housebroken.

WOW...I am tired just typing all of this. I think that is all the important stuff, life is fast paced for us but fun !

Happy Valentine's Day

2010-02-14T09:05:00.001-08:00

The girls had a dress up day at school....it was a fun change to the usual uniforms!!

Five on Friday

2010-01-29T16:06:00.000-08:00

Trying hard to stay awake and it is only 4:00 in the afternoon. How am I going to stay up for dinner and a movie with some friends? Iced Tea may do the trick.
Historical fiction is my thing, so tonight I will be seeing the movie Young Victoria. Girls night!!!
Tonight is the 3rd time I will be going out this week. WOW I am a party animal. Bible Study, Bunco, and dinner and a movie !
In 3 days I will be 38!!!!! only 2 more years for the big one!!!!
I am already feeling old. My hip, lower back, and shoulders hurt. What will I be like in 10 more years? Scary thought

wind and rain

2010-01-22T09:49:00.000-08:00

This is what happens when we have a storm!! It did not even last a whole year, bummer.

Things to do when it rains

2010-01-18T21:28:00.000-08:00

play in the rain and the puddles...this was so funny to watch, their rain boots were getting full of water and then they would run back to the garage and dump the rainwater out and go back for more...they thought it was the best thing ever!

Eat yummy sugary snacks...

It was MLK day so the girls had off from school and with the rain we stayed inside after a quick trip through the drive thru in our PJ's for some breakfast!

We cleaned and organized bedrooms. Scooped out another dead frog from the tank. Had lunch, made hair clip holders ( will post photos soon) started making valentines for school and made dinner.

We were busy!!!!

Love the rain and the girl bonding was nice too!

Five on Friday

2010-01-15T11:12:00.000-08:00

I miss talking to my mom. She is vacationing in the Cayman Islands and it costs too much to use the cell phone there. We having been doing a little texting but it is not the same. She returns tomorrow, so I am looking forward to hearing her voice once again.
I know that my children are getting older because I had "the talk" with my nine year old. It went very well but she is still giggling and asking questions!
It is cloudy out right now and I am loving it!!!
Visit with the Dr. today went well. I am having mixed headaches--migraines and muscle tension. Good to know that I am not just imaging the pain!!
Happy Friday...not too much happening for us this weekend Except Emilee's basketball game and a girls night out and now wait I think the The DALLAS COWBOYS ARE IN THE PLAYOFFS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! GO BOYS!!! AND CHARGERS!!!! go BOLTS

Ashley turns 7

2009-12-31T21:33:00.000-08:00

This was one of the few things she asked for this year. It is a My Little Pony toy. Love the look of joy on her face as she opened it.

This cake was left over from the girls party last week. We froze it and pulled it out today. It tasted even better!

It is hard to believe that this time 7 years ago I was in the hospital having just delivered an almost 10lb baby girl. Here she is now the first grader who can read, write, crack jokes and even do a cartwheel. She has even lost 2 front teeth. We love you, Ashley, Happy Birthday!!!

Our Dallas Getaway Part 2

2009-12-29T08:31:00.001-08:00

The Cowboys are off to the playoffs after their win against the Redskins Sunday night. We are thrilled in our house.

Here are a few more shots of our Dallas trip.

Teammate praying for Ware when he got hurt.

When the Cowboys score the "cowboys" came out and paraded around the field! This you don't get to see on TV.

Chris" favorite player Witten #82

Tony Romo....having a much better season!

We got to watch the 3rd quarter in 3D but it was a bust. The picture was blurry and hard to watch. The fams even booed! It was really sad.

Huddle

The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens.

If you are ever visiting Dallas a must see visit. It is a great place for kids too!

This shot was taken in honor of Susie, who always loves to jump. It was a lot of fun.

Our Dallas Getaway

2009-12-28T09:41:00.001-08:00

After a lifetime of being a true Cowboy fan, I finally got to Dallas to see the Boys play. It was a great weekend away from the stress. Chris and I had an amazing time even with the loss to the Chargers.

Here we are all dressed and ready for the game!

The stadium was unbelievable and the Jumbo tron HUGE!!!

Here are the Chargers coming onto the field...Intruder Alert!

Our Tickets to the game

Good times

The next day we had time to sight see and we decided to walk around the Botanical gardens in Dallas. It was a perfect day and many beautiful photos were taken. I will post them next in Part two of our getaway.

2009-12-25T10:11:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas from Our home to Yours!

All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: " The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel"--which means, "God with us."

Matthew 1:22-23

Happy Birthday Jesus

2009-12-22T08:45:00.000-08:00

My baby girl turned 9!!!!

2009-12-11T13:46:00.000-08:00

We had a amazing photo shoot with Angela last weekend, in the cold and almost rainy weather. The rain stayed away long enough for us to have some photo fun at Old Poway Park. I can not show too many because they may be gifts for family members....shhhh!

Bahamas

2009-12-05T07:51:00.000-08:00

Emilee feeding the rays

all 9 of us at Thanksgiving dinner

jumping on the beach

Nana and the grandkids

We arrived home a week ago from a fantastic trip to the Atlantis resort in the Bahamas. My mom took our family and my brother's family there to celebrate her 60Th birthday. We had a great time hanging out with the family, playing on all the water slides and eating some yummy food. Emilee snorkeled for the first time and we saw some amazing aquatic creatures. The weather was nice and the water was so beautiful. Here are a few pics to show you a glimpse of our awesome vacation. Thanks Mom!!!

Five on Friday

2009-11-06T20:22:00.000-08:00

Starbucks has the red holiday cups...it is officially the Holiday Season
My girls are feeling much better.
Our car is back from the garage and after $$$ we still do not know what happened to it. But it is running great now
Chris is out with the boys tonight so the girls and I snuggled in bed and watched the new Tinkerbell movie...cute!!
Now I am off to watch some more of the second season of Felicity.

Have a great weekend and go get a Starbucks it will put you in the Christmas spirit.

Off to the garage!!!$$$$$

2009-11-04T11:16:00.000-08:00

Five on Friday

2009-10-29T16:04:00.000-07:00

I finished watching the first season of Felicity this week. Monday I will start season 2. I forgot how much I really enjoyed that show.
Four weeks until Thanksgiving. That means I have that long to lose a few extra pounds for our trip to Atlantis in the Bahamas.
I am glad to turn our clocks back tomorrow evening because it will be much easier to wake up in the morning.
I am loving the fall weather we are having, I hope it stays for awhile.
Happy Halloween and Happy weekend my friends.

Five on Friday

2009-10-23T13:47:00.000-07:00

I am so looking forward to sleeping in this weekend. Even if sleeping in only means 7am.
Tonight we are going to the Lakers preseason game here in San Diego. Emilee is so excited, Daddy is too!! Ashley is just happy to stay up late.
This has been a very busy week for me and it has been nice to be relaxed today and not have to get anything done.
I have been watching the 1st season of Felicity on DVD. I forgot how much I loved that show. Anyone else out there a fan? They don't make them like that anymore.
Bunco last night.....great ladies, great fun, great food!!!!

Pumpkin Patch Fun

2009-10-19T13:40:00.000-07:00

We headed down to the local pumpkin patch to fetch some pumpkins. We walked through a corn maze and posed for some photos along the way.

Father & Daughter Dance Night

2009-10-12T19:12:00.000-07:00

family fun

2009-10-05T09:55:00.000-07:00

Enjoying yummy frozen yogurt with Uncle Michael

EM&M playing fall softball

Chris and Michael on their way to the Chargers Game

Ashley and Michael being silly monkeys at the zoo

Mom and I on our way to 80's night at Bunco Ashley lost her first tooth, Nana pulled it out because mommy was too grossed out

GOOD TIMES !!!

Back to School

2009-09-16T13:06:00.000-07:00

I know it is the second week of school but I have been busy adjusting to being a working mommy again. Love uniforms!!! no fights about what to wear to school.

Summertime!!!!!

2009-08-14T09:26:00.000-07:00

I can hardly believe that the summer is quickly coming to an end. I am sad to see it go but also excited about the fall. The girls are going to 1st and 3rd grade and I will be heading back to work.

WE have been enjoying our relaxing mornings and lazy days at the beach or hanging at the pool. We have 2 new pet goldfish. Emilee picked the black fancy goldfish and named it Licorice. Ashley picked the orange one and named it Creamsicle. I am slowly getting over my fishphobia.

The girls have their moments when they get along and create some great things.

That was just a little update on our family. Hope all of you are having a great summer.

Looking back on a great vacation

2009-07-19T12:53:00.000-07:00

My mom and brother

Nana and Pappy Mike with all the grand kids

The newest member of the family, my nephew, Kyan.

My brother Michael and sister in law Hayley with Reis (4) and Kyan (13 months)

Cape May Zoo, NJ

Nature shots

I know it looks like the bear is going to the bathroom but I promise that it was not!

When we arrived at my mom's house there were baby robins right outside her back porch door. They were still being fed by their mommy and flew away a few days later. We were all sad when they left the nest.

WE climbed to the top of the Cape May Light house, 200 steps. My legs were hurting for 3 days after.

My mom took Ashley on the go karts because I was a chicken. Ashley loved it and Nana did too.

Michael and Reis whipping around the corner of the racetrack. These were hard pictures to take.

Hanging out on the broadwalk in Wildwood, NJ.

Beach fun in Cape May

4th of July

My mom went alittle crazy at the Target 4th of July $ section, but it was fun to dress up!

See you next Summer, Pa

A Preview of Our PA trip

2009-07-15T15:44:00.001-07:00

Nana with All her Grand kidsPappy Nevin (My Dad)

Old Friends...Samantha, Nathan, Logan and Preston

Cousins hanging out at the Cape May Beach house

Me and the girls

More to come ...I took 530 pictures in 14 days!!!!

Something Blue and Something New

2009-06-26T08:45:00.000-07:00

Ashley graduated from Kindergarten and is officially a first grader. The photos that I took at the graduation did not come out for some unknown reason.

Emilee is thrilled with her new bedroom and spends lots of time at her new desk drawing.

Enjoying the beautiful day!!

2009-06-08T10:54:00.000-07:00

After about 5 weeks of this nasty cough I have more energy but still not 100%. I have a pulled back/shoulder muscle that is driving me crazy. Chris is now in the middle of the nasty cough and I heard Ashley coughing last night in her sleep. She had a low grade fever Friday and that was it..so random. Our house is filled with so many germs!!! YUCK!!!

I am ready for the summer.

Sunday was a nice spring day. So we left Chris resting on the cough and enjoyed some time at the park. The wind was just perfect for kite flying. A $3.99 plastic kite worked great.

And the coughing goes on.....the Padres win!!!

2009-05-25T08:59:00.000-07:00

After a painful few days of coughing and bruising some muscles around my ribs I am healing but still coughing. My doctor gave me antibiotics and some cough syrup. I will be returning to work tomorrow. I have been sleeping on the couch because it is the only place I sleep well in a somewhat upright position.

I was able to sneak out yesterday to go to a Padre game with the family. We got to see a home run that was exciting. The girls got free battling helmets and got to run the bases. They had a great time.

Mommy is sick

2009-05-20T13:43:00.000-07:00

Well, for the last week now I have been battling a terrible cough that has been labeled by the doctor as a "Viral Cold and Cough". I cough so hard that I pulled a muscle in my back and I have been known to pee in my pants from time to time. I am not sleeping well because it is worse at night. It is so sad... I can not kiss my husband or the kids. The house is a mess ( I thought about including photos...but it is too embarrassing). I can still go to work as long as I "keep my germs to myself" One more week the doctor said... what will my house look like by then I wonder?

I hate being sick!!!!!

correction

2009-04-22T11:01:00.000-07:00

In a previous post I showed you Emilee's winning art work and I was mistaken. This was her piece that she actually won for. Can I please brag some more??

Emilee has also won her class speech meet for reciting the Goose that laid the Golden Egg and will advance to the next round. She was also asked to try out for the softball All stars in a few weeks. She is so thrilled!!!! Especially about softball, I only pray that she makes it or she may be bummed big time!!!

Thanks for allowing me to brag about our 8 year old.

Our Cruise to Mexico

2009-04-21T20:31:00.000-07:00

Our fabulous waiters in the dining roomFun towel animals that awaited us in our room each night

dancing at the family disco

our only purchase from the beach vendors

playing with the dolphins...the girls favorite thing

fun stuff on the ship

crazy cliff diving in Mexico

I missed crazy hair night at Bunco but had fun with these wigs at Senior Frogs

Beautiful Cathedral

Family shoot taken by a stranger

self serve on the deck of the ship...very yummy

FOOD!!! this was Ashley dinner

Our ship, she was a beauty!!

The entrance of the casino had a fun see thru floor with all kinds of objects, the girls played eye spy.

the shops ~!!

Our room

We had a great family vacation!!!

Our 2 Girls

2009-04-06T11:23:00.000-07:00

Ashley has been asking for a year now to play soccer. Finally, this past weekend she got to play. I think it is a great sport for her and she will learn how to play on a team. With Emilee's softball coming to an end this will now keep us busy Saturday mornings. I am not sure what Ashley likes better, playing soccer or wearing the uniform. She is such a fashion diva!!

Emilee won 3rd place in the school Art show, we are so proud of her. It is an abstract drawing of a marker. It is so colorful!!

Our Trip to Tucson

2009-04-01T18:25:00.001-07:00

The girls and I took a trip this past weekend to visit my mom and Mike in Tucson, AZ. They were traveling in their RV from Florida and we met up with them. It was a nice weekend filled with fun for all. We stayed in the RV and spent the 3 days exploring the desert. Here are a few pics to enjoy.

On the way home we had a 3 hour delay and we did not arrive in San Diego until 12am...yes they made it to school the next day. Emilee took this picture of Ashley sleeping at the airport while we waited for our plane to arrive to finally take us home.

Bunco Night

2009-03-20T20:54:00.001-07:00

Silly Sock Theme

Good Times!!!

I think the stripey socks are in honor of Susie!! At least mine were. Can you guess which foot is mine?

Softball Star

2009-03-14T10:04:00.000-07:00

Emilee has found a new love for sports. She has always loved watching football, tennis, baseball,and basketball with Daddy. Now she has her own team to play on and she is loving every minute of it. She has had a few hits and even pitched an inning last weekend. We are so proud of our little softball star.

2009-02-21T19:40:00.000-08:00

It's Saturday

2009-02-21T14:42:00.000-08:00

Today marks a week since Ashley began her nasty fever and cough. She is finally eating and acting like her crazy self again. Too bad I now have the nasty cough. Even with a cough I took the girls to Legoland and the new Sea life Aquarium. I had a buy one adult park hopper get two kiddos in free so I had to go. We had a great time despite not feeling 100% well. The crowds were few and the weather was great. Pictures to follow once downloaded.

Chris is golfing!!!!!!!
I am trying to ignore all the arguing that is happening around me about who is coloring the picture better and the correct way.
I think that it is almost movie time!!!!! I wonder why my hair is turning gray?!!?!!?!?

Happy Valentine's Day With Love

2009-02-14T16:22:00.000-08:00

10 on Tuesday

2009-01-27T17:02:00.001-08:00

It has been so long since I posted this list
We have been in birthday mode since before Christmas and we will remain there until the end of March.
We have a cruise to Mexico planned for this spring and we are counting down the days to that. The girls are soooooooooo excited. This will be over first official family vacation that does not involve Disneyland or visiting family in PA.
With this cruise coming up that means maybe I should think about bathing suit season, that thought just makes me cringe.
A few weeks ago I received in the mail free cans of baby formula. What weird mailing list am I on? Anyone need formula?
With my upcoming B-day I will be just 3 years away from the big 40!!
My Birthday plans if you care to know are : Church, lunch , and High School Musical on Ice with front row seats with the girls. Thanks MOM!!! Dinner out as well because I will not cook on my birthday.
Good TV is back with my favorites American Idol and LOST!!!!!
WE are out to dinner tonight to CPK...Chris keeps winning gift cards at work and we have been enjoying some free food!
I am still loving my job and so thankful for it! It has been a blessing to me!

2009-01-26T20:06:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to you!!!! Chris celebrated his birthday this past weekend with some yummy donuts.

We went on an animal adventure a few weeks ago when the weather was a bit warmer. The stork egg never gets old. I don't think that they will fit in it much longer.

Our Fun with Nana and Pappy Mike

2009-01-16T09:20:00.000-08:00

Nana took Emilee for a birthday spa pedi and mani......her first....she loved it!!!

Ashley making cupcakes for her birthday

Ice Skating Fun

By the end of the 2 hours the girls were skating on their own!!

Julian gold mine tour and train ride ... a must do for all!!!

ALL the snow that was left in Julian when we arrived....just enough for them to enjoy

Hugs with Pappy Mike at Seaport Village Big Balloon Parade Fun

My Baby turns 6!!!!!!!!!!

2009-01-04T20:26:00.000-08:00

On New Years Eve Ashley turned 6She had her hair and nails made pretty

She is getting so big....she misses school and can't wait to go back tomorrow.

We Love U, Ashley

****My mom and Mike are visiting and will be leaving on Tuesday....I will post about all the fun things we did while they were here soon

Merry Christmas from Our Home to Yours

2008-12-25T18:35:00.000-08:00

Happy Birhtday, Emilee

2008-12-22T08:39:00.000-08:00

8 is GREAT!!!!!!!!!!

fun photos

2008-12-12T21:16:00.001-08:00

Opening Birthday gifts from PA -- thanks Samantha and family
Foamy gingerbread house, much easier than the real thing

Decorating the tree

Loved this Coke bottle I found at Wal-mart

I drank it soon after photo was taken.

So cute!!!

Friday Five

2008-12-12T20:55:00.000-08:00

This crazy week has come to an end and I am looking forward to a restful weekend.
My flu like symptoms are still hanging on. Maybe when I am healthy again I should get the flu shot.......anyone out there had one?? Will it help me or just get me sick?
Our house officially looks like Christmas inside and out.
I have not exercised in a week and I am missing it. My body just needs rest now.
Did I mention that I lost five pounds over Thanksgiving? I suggest that if you want to lose weight over the holidays have a root canal.

5 reasons why I have't blogged lately

2008-12-04T16:22:00.000-08:00

Way too tired to even sign in to my own blog.
Too busy breaking up all the cat fights that my girls have been in lately. yes, there has been hair pulling and scratching!!!!
Not too much to say. I am even too tired to talk these days.
I have been Christmas shopping and card addressing.
I think that I have been at the denist more than I have been at home. Finally, tooth pain is gone.

I will try my best to post more often and post some new pictures too!!

the latest and greatest at our house

2008-11-24T08:16:00.000-08:00

This was my calendar last week and this week is already looking to be a bit slower. Although I do have to work Tuesday and make a thanksgiving dinner for 5 maybe 6. Did I mention that I will probably need to have a root canal this week some time too. Back to the dentist this morning. Maybe this week won't be so slow after all.

I finally got around to creating some creative memories. I will be changing it again soon for December which is just around the corner.

The tree out front is supplying us with plenty of red leaves to rake and jump in. While raking the other day I got the old familiar smell of childhood days in Pa. Sweet memories!!

Look who learned to tie her own shoes in just 15 Min's!!!! She is so proud of her new talent and new sneakers. They are a size 13...yikes, she was wearing an 11. She is growing up.

these were taken with natural light....I am still learning to use the new camera.

5 things to do with Costco TP

2008-11-17T20:27:00.000-08:00

Stack it watch it fall

measuring

make a letter

Air hockey

Thank you Kirkland brand toilet tissue for the fun that you provided my children with today!

Words on Wednesday

2008-11-05T13:38:00.000-08:00

OK, so I missed Ten on Tuesday and it is still awhile until Friday so here are some thoughts from me today.

Has it been 6 months since my last dental check up? Yes, so back to the nice Dr. B I went and he is going to rescue another one of my food traps. Good news, I have been flossing more and my gums are looking good!! Hope that was not too much info.
I feel like I have been so out of touch with friends and I am really struggling with that right now. I guess that I am still trying to figure out how to juggle everything since I am working now. My days off still are so full of things to get done that the time just seems to go so fast. So to all of my friends out there who I have not been in touch with lately I love you and am thinking about you.
I started Christmas shopping today and I pray that I can stay on budget and keep the true meaning of Christmas as the focus!
It is time for new jeans and I am dreading all the trying on that it takes to find a good pair.
Loving the change in weather here and I hope it stays around awhile. It feels like fall, how about that?!?!
I am glad that the election is now over and all the signs can come down. I got to take the YES for Prop 8 sticker off my car and the sign out of our yard .... and I think it passed? I think that they still may be counting those votes...anyone know ?

Happy Wednesday to you all!

Happy Harvest

2008-11-01T16:12:00.001-07:00

Happy Halloween one and all

ooey, gooey..pumpkin slim

3 pumpkins sitting in a row...off to the Harvest Festival we go

We went for a slide

We played games for candy

Next year we will soar to great heights on the tethered hot air balloon ride

Friday Five

2008-10-24T09:22:00.000-07:00

For me the Friday five is much easier than the 10 on Tuesday so here we go...

I am enjoying my second cup of coffee as I write this, the house is quiet except for the sound of the washing machine and my fingers on the keyboard.
My struggles with Emilee in the morning has reached an all time high and I am going crazy. It is so hard to deal with so early in the morning. She is for sure a strong willed spirited child and I only pray for some relief when the teenage years come.
Ashley on the other hand is so accommodating and easy going. Don't get me wrong she has her moments of stubbornness but she is so much easier to handle.
One thing sad about me working is that I miss out on some of the things at school. Yesterday was the Jog-a-thon and I was not able to be there to run and watch my girls run/walk the track. A friend took photos for me and I am so thankful for that. Today is family lunch so I will be there for that one.
This weekend I am going to see HSM3. A few moms from school are going to see the third High School Musical movie, we are so excited! If it passes the "clean test" I will take the girls back to see it. Yes, I am a HSM fan can you tell?!?!

Bate's Nut Farm

2008-10-20T19:57:00.000-07:00

Ashley had her first field trip in a school bus last week. My only wish as a chaperon was that we would have had some fall weather that day. It was so HOT!!

She had a blast finding her pumpkin and searching for all the stamps in the corn maze with her friends.

Nana's Visit

2008-10-10T21:41:00.000-07:00

Miramar Air Show

Wow are the blue angels loud when they fly right over your head
We had to take Nana to our favorite beach

We love you, Nana!!
See you in December

Too Tired

2008-10-09T20:04:00.000-07:00

I am still here and promise to post the fun we had with mom soon, but this now working mommy and wife is so tired. Who would have thought that just working 2 days would be so exhausting??

Friday Five

2008-09-26T15:03:00.000-07:00

Wow is it HOT!!!!!!!!!
My mom arrives in 5 days, the girls and I are so excited to see her.
It is 3:00 and the house is still quiet, the girls should be home any minute to add some noise to the house.
Can anyone tell me what the HOV stands for in HOV lanes on the freeway...it has been bugging me and I am too lazy to Google it.
I am ready to sleep in this weekend hopefully the girls are as well.

Happy weekend to you all, stay cool if you live in San Diego and stay dry if you are in PA!

Good -Bye Summer, Hello Autumn

2008-09-22T13:39:00.000-07:00

We spent the last day of summer at our Favorite beach, Del Mar. Ashley enjoyed covering up with the sand...

Emilee enjoyed the water
Can you guess whose toes these are?
One final jump to say farewell to summer.

Signs of Fall

Our tree has begun to drop its leaves

Fall wreath of door (sorry it is out of focus)

My new look

2008-09-19T16:54:00.000-07:00

I had to have quite a bit cut off because I had so many split ends.
I am getting used to it. It feels so healthy!

Football Season is back

2008-09-17T10:47:00.000-07:00

In honor of my favorite sport and team I changed my layout to show my support. Can you guess who my team is?

Ten on Tuesday

2008-09-16T19:42:00.000-07:00

Well after my third day working with the preschoolers I now have a new found appreciation for all the hard work that goes into running an amazing program.
Not to mention that I am exhausted after the day is through and then I come home to my beautiful and demanding girls.
Thank God that I have tomorrow off to rest.
My mom is visiting in 2 weeks and Tomorrow is her birthday....HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM, we love you and are looking forward to seeing you.
Last time my mom came in October we had a fire and had to evacuate so hopefully that will not happen this time.
Thank you Chris for putting the girls to bed tonight, did I mention that I am exhausted?
I had my dollar scoop tonight because I ate very well today and I deserved a treat.
Chocolate chip mint in a cup, if you are wondering.
I am getting a hair cut on Friday...it has been at least 5 months since my last cut and style and my hair is heavy.
I am tempted to chop the hair but for those of you who know me know that I won't

Fun and Games

2008-09-14T19:47:00.000-07:00

What do we do for fun around here?

Emilee likes to relax in front of the computer and play games.

Our new pets love to annoy me and I like to poison them. Terro works!!!! Buy it if you have ants. It is a liquid that is applied to little pieces of cardboard and the ants drink it and take it back to their family and it wipes them out after a few days. But I am having many different families visiting so I have to reapply once a week for the ants that found a new way to get into my kitchen and just search around and make me angry. OK enough of the ants
I also enjoy a little game I call pot stacking.

The girls have been playing some tennis.

Ten on Tuesday

2008-09-09T18:51:00.000-07:00

This is the second week of school for the girls and already the worksheets and artwork is piling up....I just never know what to do with it. I guess the worksheets could simply be recycled after I sneak a peek, right?
I am officially a working mom and two days is certainly plenty to start with. I had my first day working with the preschoolers today and my are they cute and so little. I am loving it so far but I am tired at the end of the day.
My day off without the girls went sooooooooo fast!!
Can you believe that I opted out of dollar scoop night at Baskin Robins? I wanted to blog in quiet and I am too full from dinner or maybe it was the snacks I had before dinner.
I need to lose weight!!!
Counting points begins tomorrow
Chris has a new work day, Friday, now we will have daddy all weekend, YEAH!!
Our back yard is a work in progress. After getting a few costly estimates on fake grass we are trying to patch it ourselves with grass seed. I will keep you posted on the progress.
Emilee's arm is much better but she is having a hard time going to the park where it all happened. With time she will forget and forgive her sister as well
This has been fun sharing my daily life you all who are reading this, have a great week!

First Day of School

2008-09-02T20:06:00.001-07:00

The first day of school has come and gone and summer is now officially over.
Ashley did great saying goodbye today and I did not shed a tear. I was so proud of her. Emilee sitting at her 2ND grade desk, she kept commenting on how tall the chair was.
I gave them both kisses and hugs and off to my first day of work I went. I wish I had a picture of me with my lunch box.

Our Disneyland Trip

2008-08-30T10:10:00.000-07:00

The new Pixar Parade....you get wet!!! Very fun and nice on a hot day.

We got to eat dinner at the Rainforest Cafe. I did not know that you could just walk in a get seated in 25 mins. Such a treat!

We made some new friends

See you next year all our Disney pals.

2008-08-26T07:38:00.000-07:00

Emilee's Elbow Update

2008-08-25T15:49:00.000-07:00

Well Dr. visit went better than planned. It is still sore but doc thinks that it is just pulled. We are to check back in a few days if no progress. Disneyland is planned for the end of the week and we are still on the fence about that trip.

She still can't move the elbow

2008-08-25T08:21:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday while I was at Bunco Chris took the girls to the park. Emilee was on the zip cord thingy and Ashley pulled her legs to try and get her down. Well Emilee's arm got pulled pretty badly and 2 days later we were at urgent care. She is in a sling and still can't move her arm correctly....it just may be broken!! Yikes We are having it rechecked today! I will keep you posted.

Ten on Tuesday

2008-08-19T14:16:00.001-07:00

The girls are fighting like cats and dogs and I am feeling a bit overwhelmed by it.
School starts in 2 weeks and I still can't believe the summer is almost over.
Back to work for me as well!
We are awaiting the letter to let us know which teachers the girls will have this year.
Bunco this week...YEAH I need a night out with the girls.
Ashley is counting down the days until our annual Disney trip..I just pray that it is not as hot as last year. 112 degrees, it was a record!!
I have been up late watching the Olympics, why do the air the good stuff so late??
I think the USA girls gymnastics were robbed a few gold medals...not sure that the new scoring systems is working well.
Right now all is well in sibling land, the girls are coloring without fighting.
Grandma is on her way to take the girls for dinner and a trip to Balboa Park. She has been a blessing this summer, giving me a break at least once a week.

Busy Weekend

2008-08-17T19:45:00.001-07:00

For those of you who know me well know that I am not a camper. I am not fond of bugs, dirt, wild animals and unusual noises in the middle of the night. We promised the girls that we would camp this summer and we did, in the backyard. We had no bugs and the dirt was our dirt and when I had to use the bathroom I just went into the house. I still did not sleep well, even on the Aerobed. I heard some coyotes but knew we were safe in the yard. Boy am I glad that is over.

What is camping without the Smores!!!

Today we went to the beach and had a great time relaxing and playing in the sand. Everyone is always happy at the beach.

A Day At The Races

2008-08-10T21:47:00.000-07:00

After church today we ventured to Del Mar for some infield fun for the girls. We even watched the horses race. We had a nice day and the girls had a blast. Here are a few pics of the day.

Friday Five

2008-08-08T13:52:00.000-07:00

Vacation Bible School was a hit with the girls this week. I enjoyed seeing all the love they have for JESUS and I enjoyed having a little time for myself.
Will the heat and humidity ever go away? It was a beautiful summer and then all of a sudden boom the heat is on!! and so is the air condition.
We having been slowly but surely selling all of our items on craigslist. It has been nice to get rid of things and not have to haggle about prices.
I officially have a JOB!! I start the same day the girls go back to school. I will be working 2 days a week as a teacher assistant at the preschool that the girls went to for the last 4 years. I just can't leave that place.
Chris has had a guys night out the last 2 nights, who agrees that he owes me? I am glad that he was able to go out and hang with the guys, they need that too and don't get it enough.

Having fun with the self timer

2008-08-05T13:58:00.000-07:00

The New Children's Museum

2008-07-28T20:40:00.001-07:00

We ventured downtown last week for a fun afternoon with friends. After lots of searching for the museum and then some parking we were on our way.

I was not expecting the first thing the kids wanted to do was paint the VW bug. Emilee opted out, she was wearing a new pair of shoes. She is so like me!! Ashely on the other hand had on her favorite shoes but still wanted to get messy. FYI if you decide to go wear old clothes.
There are all the friends making their clay designs.
More painting and more paint on Ashley
Chilling after a lite lunch
Building with wood
This was so funny it was a PORTA PARTY shaped as an ipod and inside was music and a disco ball.Yes, there is even rock climbing for all the little monkeys. The kids were so excited to go into the "pillow fight" room.There is Mara peeking over all the pillow tires.
Finally, the caped crusaders.

A fun day and worth the $$. Thanks Dana and Gina for inviting us along for the ride.

Ten on Tuesday

2008-07-22T14:44:00.000-07:00

While the kids are away this is how mommy plays. Filing out job applications while drinking a homemade iced coffee.

2. While waiting for the plumber to fix clogged pipes in laundry room the girls made some not so yummy treats. They had fun anyway.
3. Emilee lost her second tooth and now has a bit of trouble saying her s's. She may go to 2ND grade without any of her front teeth.

4. Selling items on craigslist is nice but waiting for the "customers" is not.

5. It feels good to be back home from visiting family but I do miss everyone and all the fun we had.

6. Isn't the summer just flying by? I have only been to the beach twice, I got to get there again.

7. I am still as pale as I was in December. I guess the sun is not good for me anyways.

8. I miss knowing that Susie is only minutes away.

9. This year I have to purchase 2 sets of school supplies, my wallet is frowning about that news.

10. Ashley had all of the kindergarten shots yesterday and praise God so far no side effects and she was so Brave. Not one tear was shed.. I am so proud of her.

Cousins

2008-07-22T08:22:00.000-07:00

I had to post more pics of my Pa family. Here we are with my brother and his family with their new arrival, Kyan.
Nana with the all her grand kids.

Gotta love these beautiful smiles
Are they cousins or siblings??

Good Times in PA

2008-07-19T22:07:00.000-07:00

My Mom and Mike's House where we spent our vacation

It is an old farm house
Fun photos of their yard Camping in Amish County, Lancaster

Emilee and Uncle Michael
Me and my little brother...proud papa of two boys

The Amish Farm we visited

This goat had the same name as Emilee, she was thrilled

Covered bridge near my hometown

Forever Friend, Samantha and her boys.
We have been friends since elementary school.
She will be up and blogging soon.

We visited a cave

And panned for gems

The girls dressed up in my mom's old clothes and laughed so hard!!

My new nephew's tiny feet

Emilee collected bugs in a bug vacuum

Samantha made me ride the tallest roller coaster at Dorney park. I will never do it again.

What will we do next year?

We had a blast

Thanks Mom and Mike for everything.

Love you all in PA

We made it out of the house

2008-07-08T20:19:00.000-07:00

After a long week at home with both girls getting pink eye and mommy getting strep throat we made it out of the house. We were supposed to spend the 4Th at the fair but instead I was at urgent care while the family awaited my bad news of not being able to go. So instead the girls and I saw the American girl movie. LOVED IT!! It was very family friendly and entertaining for me. I even cried but that is not a shocker , I cry at all movies. Emilee and I watched the fireworks together to end our July 4Th celebration.

The next day we went to the fair because I was feeling better. Which really means that I no longer was swallowing knives. I have never had such a bad sore throat before..OUCH.

We survived our 5 hour flight and are now enjoying time with family and friends. I hope to post so fun photos new time.

Can we get out of the house please?

2008-07-02T15:14:00.000-07:00

As write this we are knee deep in pink eye and a sore throat. I thought that we were out of the clear but it keeps on going. Emilee started with pink eye last Saturday morning and Ashley woke up with a fever on Sunday. Ashley's fever is gone but now this morning she awoke with the swollen, crusty eye!! Me...I have got the sore throat. I need to get out of this house and have some fun!!!! Will we be better by our flight Monday AM, will Daddy get sick as well? Will we ever be able to get out of the house and play with friends again....Yikes, I am going bananas stuck in here.