The Chronicles of all things Mommy

It's OK, I'm OK.

2011-12-16T11:20:00.000-08:00

I find myself repeating this mantra a lot lately.
My life is busy, sometimes chaotic. I deal with depression on a daily basis, I don't know if depression is a result of some things that happened to me when I was a child, if it's because an imbalance in my brain, or if it's delayed postpartum depress, no matter where it stems from, I know I can't let depression keep me down.
I'm a Mom of 3, I'm a wife, a friend, a Daughter, Sister and Aunt.
I'm going through a lot of emotional chaos right now.
Am I complaining? I suppose some could view it that way.
I'd like to think that I'm just venting.
I live in a rural area, I'm not around any other adults much during the day, so sometimes I guess I do speak without thinking that maybe it could come out as a complaint or frustration.

However, the goods news is that I am aware of this. I'm tired of losing friends and pushing family members away.
I have made a vow to work on myself, my patience, my complaining and just being an overall better person.
It's going well, so far, at least I think so.

Life isn't easy, I don't care who you are. It's never easy.
It is what we make of it and I'm not sure if the upcoming New Year has made me reflect on all these issues I need to work out, or if it's just life in general that has made me contemplate these issues and made me want to do and be better. What ever the case may be, my children, my husband, family and friends deserve a better "ME". So, I'll give it to them.

Life goes by way too fast and I want to try to enjoy every moment of it that I can.
When I lost my Mom 16 years ago in a car accident. I turned to her and I knew in my heart of hearts that she was already gone, but I was hoping that she could somehow be able to hear what I had to say to her. Those words were, "Mom, it's ok. I'm ok." Those were the only words I could force out of my mouth. My mind was spinning but I wanted her to know that her daughter was going to be OK.
So when I find myself in the midst of chaos or when I'm feeling overwhelmed, I'll repeat those words as a reminder that everything is going to be just fine. "It's OK. I'm OK".

Shoe Make Over

2011-08-15T09:44:00.000-07:00

Back in May, my Daughter and myself attended an annual Mother's day tea.
The theme was to come dressed as your personality.
After giving much thought to this, I decided that I would be the "Queen Bee" and my Daughter would be a "Honey bee" because she's such a sweetie.

We had fun decorating our hats with flowers & bees. We both wore black & yellow dresses, but we still needed some shoes to match our outfit.

At the last minute, I decided to do some fabric flowers and glue them on our shoes.
We didn't win a prize for our theme, but I was very happy with the overall outcome.

Linking to:
http://makingtheworldcuter.com
http://sewcando.blogspot.com/2011/08/mid-august-craftastic-monday-link-up.html
http://singingthreelittlebirds.blogspot.com/2011/08/inspire-me-monday_15.html
http://itsablogparty.com/show-me-how-8-15-11-frosting-for-the-cause/

Happy Birthday, Baby!

2011-07-25T09:52:00.000-07:00

I'm very late posting this, but our little guy turned 1 on June 24th.

It still blows my mind as to how the time can go by so fast. I still remember the very first day I held him in my arms and how I wanted to capture that moment in my mind and keep it forever.
He is a very active boy. He likes music, he goes back and forth between being a "Mama's boy" and a "Daddy's boy". One minute he wants to be held and cuddled by me and the next he's crying for his Dad.
He isn't speaking much, but does say, "Mama, Dada, Wow". He also knows the sign for "More" and "Please".
All in all he is a joy to have around and we are so glad we have our little "Bonus" baby.

Quick craft for Easter.

2011-04-22T08:49:00.000-07:00

At the last minute, I came up with this super easy craft for my kiddos to make for their friends at school.
I had a bunch of those chocolate candies in a wrapper.
We cut out Butterfly wings out of construction paper, taped the chocolates in the middle and added some
google eyes and pipe cleaner for antennae.

SUPER Easy and cute.

Last Minute Baby diaper cake

2011-03-28T11:27:00.000-07:00

I had a baby shower to attend on Saturday. I knew there would be a diaper raffle and I forgot to buy diapers, so I thought of a last minute idea for a diaper cake.
Luckily, I had some diapers at the house because my little guy is only 9 months.
Mind you, they were a size 3, but they'll come in handy once the baby is older.

1. I started out with a small mixing bowl. I rolled up the diapers and gathered them all together with a rubber band.
2. I used some white raffia and unrolled in around the diapers. Kept it together with a small piece of tape on the back.
3. I used a white napkin for the top of the "cake". Just unfolded it and tucked it into the raffia paper.
4. Got out my scrapbook supplies and came up with a cute little sign that read "baby". Glued the sign on to a popsicle stick, stuck it in the middle of the cake.
5. Took a flower and put it under the sign to complete the diaper cake.
6. Tied some ribbon around the whole cake for a finished look.

So fast, simple and cute.
My friend loved the cake!

Almost time.

2011-03-18T00:20:00.000-07:00

It's almost that time again. The time when I wipe tears from my eyes because I find myself thinking about her.
Almost time to try to forget the horrific images I have ingrained in my memory of the day the accident happened.
Time when I reflect on all the good memories I have of her. All the funny memories.

Like the time when we were driving down a busy street and she took the turn a little too fast and her car door flew open which resulted in her purse flying out of the car and plopped onto the middle of the intersection with all her loose change and dollar bills blowing into all the other oncoming vehicles. She just kept screaming, "Oh my gosh, oh my gosh, what do I do?" All the while her car door was still wide open and she continued to drive down the road. I screamed back, "Shut your door and pull over!". Then I had to run into the street to get her purse and gather up all of her personal belongings, shoving them back inside her purse as I tried to dodge vehicles who wouldn't stop for me to accomplish this task.

It does bring a smile to my face now, just thinking of her and her clumsy things she would do.
Who is she, you ask?
My Mom.
My beautiful, wonderful, caring , loving Mom.
She was killed in a car accident on April 6, 1996. I saw her die. Right before my eyes, I swear I saw her spirit leave her body.
That day was the most traumatic day of my life. However, it was also one of the most beautiful experiences of my life. I was the last person that she ever saw before she entered into the afterlife. I was the last voice she ever heard. I knew in my heart of hearts that she was gone, killed instantly. The last words I said to her were, "Mom, it's ok. I'm ok, it's ok." Those were the only words that I could manage to say. I have heard that when a person dies, the last thing to go is their hearing. I wanted my Mom to know that I was ok. I wasn't injured. She could go in peace knowing that her daughter was safe and alive.
A few short days after her death, I had a strange kind of peace about her untimely death. I thought to myself how special it was for me to be with her during her death. She brought me into this world and I was able to be with her when she left this world.

April 6. It's only a few short weeks away. During the early years of her death, usually around 2 weeks before the Anniversary date I would start getting anxious. My Husband will tell you that I was not a person he would want to be near. I would have crying fits, my temper would sometimes become volatile, I would be in a deep state of depression. It was just an awful 2 weeks for me and for anyone else around me.
It wasn't until my Daughter was born that I was able to view the Anniversary in a different way. You see, my Daughter was born in April. She was born on April 26. My life had come full circle for me the day she was born. Instead of dreading the month of April, I now had a reason to celebrate. I celebrate my Daughter's birth, I celebrate the fact that I am a Mom..... of 3! I celebrate that I'm alive and I was able to give life!
I now understand how much my Mom loved me. It is truly a blessing to be a Mom. For me, it's an even more special blessing to be a Mom of a Daughter.
Don't get me wrong, April 6th is still an emotionally difficult day for me, but I try to make the best of it. I choose to remember how she lived life and not how she died.
So yes, it's almost time.
Time to live, time to love, time to laugh. It's time.

Linking to:
Creative Girl
Hodgepodge Friday

How to give yourself a quick boost of self esteem.

2011-03-05T20:03:00.000-08:00

It's actually quite easy. Volunteer! Yes, that's all you have to do. Volunteer your time by fixing a meal for a new Mom, pick up the phone and call someone who is ill, babysit for a couple who could use a night out on the town together, or head over to your local homeless shelter and ask how they can use you.
It is a great way to lend a helping hand and you will feel so much better after you are done.

I started volunteering my time at a local homeless shelter a couple of years ago.
I held monthly jewelry making classes for the women who resided there.
I received several generous donations from friends, family, and complete strangers who wanted to donate money and beading supplies.
Most of the jewelry we make is fairly simple. We mostly make string beaded earrings and necklaces.

I had been out of the game for a while since the birth of my son, but I started jewelry classes at the shelter again this past week and it was wonderful!

I met several fantastic women who were eager to try their hands at a new craft.
One of the most interesting women I met was named, "Annie". She was very familiar with jewelry making. She told me that she knows how to make jewelry and when she lost her home (due to foreclosure, I'm guessing) she had to sell most of her jewelry supplies to help her out financially.
Half way through the class, she had an idea on how to improve on the bracelet she was currently making. She ran up to her dorm room and came back with a garbage bag full of beading supplies. She must have had at least 10 lbs. of beads in that bag! She proceeded to pull out her supplies and she was more than willing to share her beads with the rest of the women, if they chose to.
She then told me a story about when she was a child in school. Her Teacher used to give out beads for good behavior, and good grades. Her teacher taught her how to macrame and used the beads in her weaving.
"Annie" told me that ever since she was a child, she always felt rich if she had beads with her.
She got a huge smile on her face and said, "Look at me now. My beads are all I have left, but I'm rich".

There was another gal in the class who wasn't more than 8 years old. She was so excited to make her own bracelet, she gathered up a hand full of beads and carefully carried them to her table to start designing her bracelet. Her eyes lit up when she rummaged through the supply of beads. When all was said and done, she had made four bracelets. When I asked her if she was planning on sharing her bracelets with her Mom, she just kept talking about how pretty the bracelets were and how all the colors matched her shirt. Her Mom just rolled her eyes at me, I'm guessing the answer was "No".

It was a great time and I plan to go back again next month. So get out there and volunteer! I promise you, you'll feel spectacular!
If you'd like to read more about the shelter, please click here: The Shade Tree.

I am running out of beading supplies, if you'd like to make a donation, simply click on the Donate button on the upper left hand corner of my blog.
You will be helping out with a great cause.
Thank you!

Linked to:
Keeping it Simple Sunday
Amaze me Monday
MMM Mondays
Crafty Chica Friday
Craft envy Saturday
Project Weekend Party

Tatertots & Jello Weekend wrapup
Making Due Tuesday
Get your Craft on Tuesday
Finding Fabulous Friday
Blessings overflowing Friday
Hodgepodge Friday
Flaunt it Friday
Frugal & Fabulous Friday
It's a hodgepodge Friday

Names have been changed to protect identity.

8 months

2011-02-26T17:57:00.000-08:00

Where does the time go?

Even though this little guy is Number 3 for us, I still can't believe how fast the time goes by. He'll be 1 year old in just a few months.
He sure is a sweet little guy. He has started doing the "commando" crawl. He just seems to drag himself along with only one functioning leg. He hasn't figured out to use both of his legs to help him with his crawling.
He's finally sitting up on his own.
Not a very whiney little guy either. He usually only cries when he is tired, hungry or irritated.
Grandma just came to visit us last week and I know she just hated to leave.
Happy 8 month Birthday!

Some random stuff

2011-02-04T17:17:00.000-08:00

We went on a family bike ride about 3 weeks ago. The weather was gorgeous and we rode about 4 miles. It was my first time using the bike trailer to bring baby along.

All went well, except for the one wipe out I had when a 9 year old kid crashed into me which in turn made me crash and fall off my bike. It was quite a site to see.

I was fine and the only one I was really worried about was the baby, but he was unharmed.

The boys' parents apologized profusely and I just smiled and dusted myself off.

The day before our bike ride, Hubby took the older two kiddos on a hike. I decided to take the baby and do some shopping. Wasn't up for a hike. They had a good time though and enjoyed the beautiful view of the city.

Had a friend and her baby girl over for dinner. The babies weren't quite sure what to do with each other except suck on each others faces. It was very cute.

What else have we been up to? Let's see? My oldest son got 100% on his spelling test this week. Nothing really exciting about that because he usually gets 100%. Yes, I'm bragging.
My daughter got moved up to a new reading group. Bragging, again.
Our baby started crawling around, he's using one of his legs, but he hasn't figured out how to use both of his legs to help him move along.

That's really about all the excitement around here. Well, there's always my anxiety that keeps things fun and exciting. I seriously hope to slay that demon soon, because I've had it with anxiety and depression!
Have a great weekend!

Snazzy Sandwich for your kiddo!

2011-02-03T10:00:00.000-08:00

I was tired of making the same ham & cheese sandwich for my kid's for their lunch.

So, I got a little creative one day and this is what I came up with:

Cute, don't you think?
Very easy to make.
1. Sliced celery for the eyebrows.
2. Sliced cherry tomatoes and carrots for the eyes.
3. Cheese slices for the teeth.
4. Lunch meat for the tongue.

I'm sure there are lots of variations you can make up.
My kids got a good laugh out of these sandwiches and wouldn't you know it, they ate the whole thing!
Show me your sandwich creation!

Linked to:
Sugar & Spice #51 Wed.
Sister Stuff Wed.
Life as Lori Thursday
HOH Thursday
A crafty Soiree Thursday
Friday
Craft Friday
Finding Fabulous
Fab Friday #33
Frugalicious Friday
Check me out Saturday
Craft Envy Saturday

7 Months

2011-01-24T18:58:00.000-08:00

Our little guy is 7 months old today.
He is such a joy to us all. He is a very happy baby. Only cries when he is hungry, tired or needs to be changed. Well, he does cry too when he wants to be held, but most of the time he's content playing alone. He likes digging through his little tub of toys.

He is also starting to scoot along on his belly. He hasn't figured out how to use his legs yet so he just pulls himself about and that seems to work just fine for him.

He is eating jar foods mostly, but also likes bananas and avocados. Go figure.
Big brother and Big sister still can't get enough of him and I have to constantly remind them to stop loving on their baby brother so much or else he'll get used to all of the attention all the time. Ha ha.

We'll see what new adventures month 7 has in store for our little Bug a Boo.

Can't get enough of these fabric necklaces

2011-01-20T16:58:00.000-08:00

Here is one more fabric necklace I made for myself.

I love the colors!

See how to make your own here.

Linked to:
Whipped up Monday
Craft O Maniac Monday
Motivate Me Monday
Making Monday Marvelous
All Things related Tuesday
Take A Look Tuesday
Home Sweet Farm Friday
Fun to craft Friday
Fantabulous Friday
Frugalicious Friday
Feature yourself Friday
Friday Fun Finds Kojo
Shoestring Flaunt it Friday
Finished for Friday
Simply Sweet Friday
Home & Family Friday
Blessings Overflowing Friday
Weekend Wrapup
Tatertots & Jello Weekend
Check me out Saturday
Craft Envy Saturday Spotlight
Sunday Showcase
Young & Crafty Friday

Easy Peasy Hat Re do

2011-01-18T13:22:00.000-08:00

Bought this hat at TJ maxx for $3.00.
Although it was cute, I wanted to add a little something to it to make it a little cuter.
Made a couple of fabric rosettes, glued them on with my glue gun , added some sparkle in the middle of the rosettes and there you have it!

Easy peasy!

Linked to:
Sew Can do Monday
Sew Cute Tuesday
Sugar & Spice Wednesday
Wallet Friendly Wednesday
Sister Stuff Wednesday
Look What I made Wednesday
Sew What simple Wednesday
Get your craft on Thursday
Hooking up with HOH Thursday
Make it Wear it Thursday
A crafty soiree Thursday
A vision to Remember Saturday
Craft Envy Saturday

Just have to say......

2011-01-15T15:29:00.000-08:00

I'm so proud of my Son & Daughter for sending some of there allowance money, $2.44 to be exact to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
A friend of mine is raising money & will be competing in a Marathon in Nashville on April 30th.
She is a great friend and was so happy when she received the envelope full of change that my kiddos sent to her.
If you would like to donate to her great cause, please click on the link below.
Thank you!
TNT Fundraising

Super Easy T shirt Re do Tutorial

2011-01-13T16:10:00.000-08:00

Seriously, super easy.
I'm not a complicated gal and I don't like complicated things.
Came up with this "design" on my own.
Bought a plain blue T shirt for my Daughter at Target for around $3.00.

Cute, but it needed a little "something something".
Rummaged through my ribbons and fibers and came across this sweet little pink ribbon.

Now the fun part.
I took a long strip of ribbon and ran it through my sewing machine on a single stitch.
When I got to the end I pulled one of the strings which made the ribbon crinkle.
Pinned the ribbon down on the shirt across the upper chest and ran that through my sewing machine.

Once that was done, I created a ribbon rosette, sewed that onto the shirt, glued some bling on the center of the flower and PRESTO!
Now, is that super easy, or what?

Linked to:

Sew Can do Monday

Tot Tuesday 38

What I whipped up Wednesday

Sister Stuff Wednesday

Fireflies & Jelly Beans Wednesday

Somewhat Simple Thursday

Life as Lori Thursday

HOH Thursday

Thrifty Thursday

Paisley Passions Thursday

Frugal & Fabulous Friday

Frugalicious Friday

Fix it Friday

Kojo Fun finds

Chic shoestring Friday

Shabby Nest Friday

Simply Sweet Friday Favorites

Young & Crafty Friday

Craft Envy Saturday

Tatertots & Jello Weekend wrapup

New items added to my shop!

2011-01-08T15:02:00.000-08:00

I haven't had any listings in quite a while. I've been a little busy with 3 children at home, a Husband, laundry, diaper changing, dinner making, well...you get the picture.
Anyway, getting back into the swing of things and I've added some new items to my etsy shop.
Stop by Blue Suede Jewels and take a look. To celebrate I'm offering 25% off all items in my etsy store.
Please type in promo code: NewYear2011 before check out and your items will be discounted.
Stop in my shop and take a look at all the fun things I've added.
Happy New Year!

Vegan Cupcakes! Surprisingly delicious.

2011-01-06T10:39:00.000-08:00

My Husband bought me a Martha Stewart cupcake recipe book for Christmas.
I've never been a "cupcake" person. Didn't really care too much for them. However, when I was pregnant with my last baby, I became addicted.
If there was a cupcake within arm's reach, I was gonna eat it!

So the other day, I got out my trusty cupcake recipe book and decided to try my hand at baking my own cupcakes. Well wouldn't you know it, I was out of eggs & milk. It was my lucky day though because I found one recipe for Vegan cupcakes. It didn't sound too good to me, but I figured I'd try it anyway. I was desperate for a cupcake, after all!
They turned out to be quite delicious.
I can't wait to try more recipes!

Here is the recipe:

1 1/2 Cups cake flour
3/4 Cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 Cup plus 1 Tb. vegetable oil
1 T. distilled white vinegar
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1 1/4 Cups water
Confectioners' sugar, for dusting (I opted out of this ingredient and used my own frosting instead)

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line standard muffin tin with paper liners. Sift together cake flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda and salt.
2. With electric mixer, mix together oil, vinegar, vanilla and the water until well combined. Add flour mixture and mix until smooth.
3. Divide batter evenly among lined cups, filling three quarters full. Bake, rotating tin halfway through until toothpick inserted comes out clean. Approx 20 - 25 mins. Turn out cupcakes onto a wire rack and let cool.
4. Cupcakes can be stored up to 3 days at room temperature or frozen up to 1 month. Dust cupcakes with cocoa & confectioners' sugar.

5. EAT & enjoy!

Linked to:
Fireflies & Jellybeans
Tasty Tuesday

Fabric Necklace

2011-01-04T09:52:00.000-08:00

I got started on this whole fabric necklace kick.
I've had my hot glue gun out all weekend and have been designing new necklaces.
This is my latest creation.

I will post a tutorial soon, I promise. In the meantime, add me to your list of favorite blogs and follow me! I have lots more great, simple sewing crafts coming up. Thanks for stopping by!

Linked to:
Mad skills Monday
Not just a housewife Monday
Craft O Maniac Monday
Made with Love Monday
Making the World cuter Monday
Take A Look Tuesday
http://creatingreallyawesomefreethings.com/
Glam Party Monday
Sew Can Do Wednesday
Wallet Friendly Wednesday
Treasuristas Thursday Treasures
A round Tuit Monday
Show and Share Friday
Frugalicious Friday
Spunky Junk
A littel lovely Saturday
Craft Envy Saturday

2010: Year in Review.

2011-01-01T17:28:00.000-08:00

This is not your usual, "Oh our family is so perfect, all of our children are beautiful, We are the most fantastic parents in the world" year in review letter.
No, because that's not the way I roll. I keep things real.
Here is a realistic view of 2010.

2010 started off with morning sickness in full effect and continued until about mid February.

My oldest son took a vow of silence and would only communicate with us in written form. That only lasted about 2 hours, but it was nice to have a break from him and his sister's arguing. It's kind of difficult to argue with your sister when you are only writing on a piece of paper and using a crayon!

My daughter lost her first tooth.

I decided to improve on my culinary skills and served a dinner which consisted of cheesy hot dogs, potato salad, peas and potato chips. It must have been a hit because my son exclaimed, "Now that's what I call a dinner!"

My friends threw a baby shower for me in Phoenix. I was able to spend some time with some of my family and also was able to reconnect with friends I hadn't seen in over 10 years! Thanks, Facebook!

My daughter turned 6!

Some more friends threw a baby shower for me here in Nevada.

My oldest son turned 8!

I counted down the days until our baby was going to make his/her entrance into the world.

My In Laws came to stay with us and help out around the house until the baby was born. During their visit, my Father in Law kept himself busy by installing a new shower head, buying some new rugs for the kitchen (because the old ones were old and ugly), installed a new toilet seat, organized our pantry, fixed our kitchen drawer and I'm sure there were some other things he did to help spruce up our house, but I can't recall.
My Mother in Law kept herself busy by helping out with the kiddos, cooking and being a totally awesome Grandma!

Finally, our little guy was born. Baby "J" was born on 6/24/10 weighing in at 7 lbs. 2 oz.

My daughter lost another tooth the 2nd day that our baby was home. She put the tooth in her pillow and the tooth fairy forgot to show up that night.
So she put her tooth in the pillow the following night and the tooth fairy showed up that night, left her some money but forgot to take her tooth! My daughter was confused as to why the tooth fairy left her money but left the tooth in her pillow.
At that point I explained to my daughter that the tooth fairy has lots of little boys and girls to take care of
and sometimes she forgets to take the teeth. I also explained that maybe the tooth fairy had her own family to take care of and that maybe the tooth fairy still had to get dinner made every night and clean the house and drive her children to Karate practice and that maybe the tooth fairy also had a newborn baby at home and was busy breastfeeding and changing diapers and was probably sleep deprived and barely had time to take a shower! I told her she should just leave the tooth in the pillow yet again and maybe the tooth fairy would come back.
Luckily for my daughter's sake the tooth fairy came that night and took the tooth and left a pillow for her mistake.
The following morning the world was a happier place, at least for a moment.

My Dad and his wife came to visit us and meet the new baby!

My Brother and his family came to visit and meet the new baby too.

My oldest son went to spend a week with his cousins in Arizona. He went swimming every day and my Sister in law reported to me that he didn't cry or whine one single time during his visit! I'll have to be sure to send him to Arizona more often.

I realized that my baby was a beautiful baby because total strangers would approach me and say, "Oh, your baby girl is so pretty!"

My oldest son attended summer camp for the first time. When I was packing his clothes he made sure to advise me as to not pack any pajamas that had animal prints or car prints. Just plain pajamas because he was a big boy now.
He learned a hip hop dance, did some rock climbing, made me a gorgeous flower pen and made lots of new friends!
.

My Husband's sister and one of her daughter's came to visit us and meet baby "J"

My daughter decided to expand on her culinary skills and started making her own breakfast. Most mornings she would have a healthy serving of: Cocoa puffs, lucky charms and trix all mixed together in one bowl.
My older two children headed back to school.

My Uncle and Aunt came from New Mexico to meet the baby.

My Husband and I celebrated 10 years of wedded bliss by going on a short trip to Portland.

I experienced changing a 3 month's old explosive diaper in an airplane bathroom. Let me just give you a tip: Have plenty of wipes on hand.

Made some new friends and tried some Thai food for the first time ever. I'm now addicted!

We had a small, private baby dedication at our house. Our Good looking Pastor and his lovely wife agreed to do the baby dedication for us. My Dad and his wife came from Phoenix for the special occasion. Baby "J" pretty much slept through the whole event.

My daughter continued her Taekwondo lessons and received her yellow belt!

My older son dropped out of Taekwondo lessons because in his words it was "too boring".

My Hubby took the older two children on some camping trips and several bike rides.

My older two children had to discover how to keep themselves self entertained because their parents were busy with the new baby and didn't have time to give them all the love and attention they needed. They mostly did this by building things with Lego's.

They also kept themselves entertained by taking pictures of themselves and anything else they came across.

Baby "J" celebrated his first Halloween.

We made a trip to Phoenix and more family members got to meet our newest addition, including my Grandma.

We attended the Arizona State Fair! I talked my children into going on the Giant slide, my son was scared to death when we reached the top, but there was no time to give into his whining, so me and my Daughter went down the slide together and I left my terrified, trembling son at the top of the slide to figure it out for himself. Hey, tough love. He's gotta learn to get through rough times in life sooner or later. He came down the slide about 3 minutes later. He had a look of terror on his face, but he decided that he liked it and actually went down a second time.

We visited my Mom's grave in Phoenix. I tried not to cry like a baby, but I couldn't hold the tears back.

Baby "J" celebrated his first Thanksgiving and Christmas.

We celebrated Christmas and baby "J" did not enjoy opening presents.

2010 was full of it's usual joys, sorrows, laughter, tears ....but most importantly it was full of love!
Wishing all of you a joyous and realistic 2011!

6 months!

2010-12-29T23:18:00.000-08:00

I can't believe how fast 6 months has gone by.

You are such a joy to all of us.

You aren't sleeping through the night yet, but you will get there soon.

You love cuddling up into the corner of your crib when you fall asleep.

You love food! Any type of food. In fact, I can cut up an avocado and feed it to you right from the skin and you will eat the whole thing!

You are almost ready to sit up on your own.

You recently discovered your feet and try to suck on your own toes.

You like to be tickled on your tummy.

You love to be held and sometimes cry when you see me and realize that I'm not holding you.

Your brother and sister still think that you are the greatest thing since sliced bread!

So glad you are in our lives.

I love you, little guy!

2 Simple weekend crafts

2010-12-28T11:47:00.000-08:00

So I've been sick for the past 4 days. I've been miserable! My throat is killing me, runny nose, sneezing and coughing. I've been in the bed most days. I was getting restless so I decided to go through my craft stash and see what simple crafts I could whip up to help keep my mind off being so sick.
Here's what I came up with.


Wrist warmers made out of socks.

and.....


Rosette girl's headband made from an old T shirt.

Quick and easy.
If you'd like me to post a tutorial, I'd be happy to do so. My photos didn't turn out so well, so I figured I'd skip the tutorial this time.
Check out some more fabulous crafts here:

A crafty soiree Thursday
http://frugalfabulousdesign.com/
Feature Yourself Friday
Momma's Kinda Crafty Friday

Last minute Christmas craft

2010-12-24T23:24:00.000-08:00

Nothing like trying to make a Christmas wreath 1 day before Christmas.
Found myself at JoAnn's at 9pm Thursday night. Lo and behold, what to my eyes did appear? Christmas decor was 70% off. I couldn't pass up such a great deal.
I quickly filled up my cart with Christmas balls, tinsel, garland and what ever else caught my fancy.
Came home, looked up how to make a Christmas wreath out of ornaments, pulled out my trusty glue gun and approx. 40 minutes later I completed my project. Just in time for Christmas.
I love it.
Looks like I'll be heading back to JoAnn's to stock up on more supplies to make these as gifts for next year.
If you happen to be the lucky recipient of one of these lovely wreaths, pretend you never saw this posting.

Merry Christmas!

Look what I made!

2010-12-20T15:06:00.000-08:00

How cute is this pom pom bib necklace? This was so much fun to make. So cute and versatile. Can be worn with a T shirt or you can wear it with a fancy blouse. I found the tutorial at Little Miss Momma.
It is surprisingly easy to make.
I'm loving this newest creation!
Saw how to make it on another blog and thought I'd give it a try.
Go here to see the tutorial: Pom Pom bib necklace.
What do you think?

See more fabulous items here:
Made with Love Monday
Making the World cuter Monday
A round to it Monday
Motivate Me Monday
Mad in crafts Monday
Momspiration Monday
Take a look Tuesday
All Things Related Tuesday
Get your craft on Tuesday
http://www.betweennapsontheporch.blogspot.com/
http://thecreativeitchboutique.blogspot.com/2011/01/sew-cute-tuesday-11111.html
Look What I made Wednesday
While he was napping
Flaunt it Friday
Home story Friday
Kojo Friday

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-16T14:05:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving crafts and family stuff.

2010-11-29T18:08:00.000-08:00

Here are a few simple Thanksgiving crafts I made at the very last minute. I figured if we were staying home to celebrate, I might as well make it look a little festive in our house.

I made this banner with a little bit of help from my personal cricut.

These pumpkins were very easy to make. I simply cut 12 strips of 1 1/2" strips of paper.

It was our little guys very first Thanksgiving. He was able to eat a delicious meal of butternut squash (blended, of course). He seemed to enjoy it.

We feasted on honey glazed ham, mashed potatoes & gravy, stuffing, green beans, bleu cheese stuffed mushrooms and deviled eggs. A very satisfying yet simple meal.

A wholelotta Thankfulness!!

2010-11-25T23:52:00.000-08:00

I had each of our family members write down on a piece of paper two things they were thankful for.
I put them in a bowl and then at the dinner table, we each picked out two pieces of paper and shared what was written down.
Here goes:
Hubby is thankful for our family and that everyone is healthy.
My Oldest son is thankful for God and the world and family.
Daughter is thankful for Good (God) and her baby brother.
I'm not sure what baby brother is thankful for but it probably has something to do with food. He loves to eat!
I am thankful for friends and family and that everyone is also healthy.
Isn't it interesting that we all are thankful for family? So happy to have our newest member of the family join us for this special day. I'm very thankful for each one of my children and I'm especially thankful for my wonderful, hard working, keeps me laughing, protector and provider Husband!

2:57 A.M.

2010-11-17T19:18:00.000-08:00

2:57 A.M.
I find myself getting up at very strange hours of the early morning with my little guy.
Seems as though he isn't ready so sleep through the night yet.
As much as I want to complain and cry and pull my hair out, I won't.
I realize that our little ones grow way too fast. Before I know it they'll be off to College.
My oldest son is already 8. I have memories of rocking him to sleep at night when he was a baby.
Now, I'm lucky if I get a hug from him before bedtime each night.
My Mom always said that the time goes by too fast.
I agree.
Life is good, especially at 2:57 A.M.

3 Months

2010-11-06T16:29:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted on here in 2 months! Little guy is growing fast...here he is at 3 months.

Two Months!

2010-08-31T09:40:00.000-07:00

Our little guy turned 2 months on the 24th.

We discovered that he loves music and singing.

His brother and sister will sing to him and he'll coo along with them.

It's very sweet to hear him sing.

He has discovered his thumb and is able to calm himself down when he's upset by sucking on it.

Getting bigger and bigger every day.

This too shall Pass

2010-08-04T13:33:00.000-07:00

This is what my Mom would always say when ever I was dealing with a difficult situation.
I need those words of encouragement and hope today.
I love my baby boy and I'm so glad he's here on this earth with us.
However, I'm having a difficult time dealing with him lately. He wants to be held by his Mom 24/7.
Believe me, I'd love to do nothing else but sit around all day and hold my precious baby, but I also have 2 other children and a Husband who are in need of my attention too.
I need to take a shower and clean the house and do laundry so this leaves me limited time to hold him.
I needed a break today! I put him in his crib while I jumped into the shower, needless to say he cried the whole time.
I feel awful for letting him cry but I didn't have a choice.
I do know that someday "This too shall pass".
It gives me hope that the days won't always be this difficult.
Excuse me now while I go and hold my baby.

1 month old!

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

Our little guy is one month old today!
Wow. It sure does go by fast.
We are so happy to have him here with us, completing our family.
He's still trying to figure things out. He loves to be held and cuddled.

1 Week Old!

2010-07-05T18:01:00.000-07:00

Our cute little guy turned 1 week old on Thursday.
We are so happy to have him complete our family. He is just the sweetest baby. If I could have a guarantee that all my babies would be as sweet as him, I'd have a dozen!
I'll enjoy him for now, the time goes by fast and before I know it, he'll be turning one.

Isn't he just the cutest little monkey you ever saw?

Our Baby is here!

2010-06-24T21:28:00.000-07:00

Our precious baby boy arrived this morning at 11:37am.
He weighed in at 7 lbs. 8 oz. and measured 19 1/2 inches long.
It was a quick delivery and Mom and baby are doing well.
Life is good!

It's a waiting game.....

2010-06-06T17:24:00.000-07:00

I saw my OB Doctor on Friday. Everything looks great for my 36 week check up.
She said I was dilated 2 cm. and the baby's head was nice and low.
It's a waiting game from here on out.
She also said that she didn't think I would make it to 40 weeks, which is fine with me.
I really have a feeling that this baby could be here within the next 2 to 3 days. I'm having contractions off and on and the baby is very active.
Today my oldest turned 8. We all keep joking about how funny it would be if this baby decided to be born today. That would make birthday's easy to remember, that's for sure.
Until the big day, I'll just keep patiently waiting.

Monkeys, monkeys, everywhere you look, monkeys!

2010-05-23T15:19:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, my wonderful friends hosted a baby shower for me.
It was such a great time, I'm sad that this will be my last ever baby shower.
However, I'm so grateful for all the wonderful friends I have in our little community, they are all like family to me.

These women went above and beyond for me and I truly appreciate it.
It was a Monkey theme and we all had a great time!

A table in honor of my Mom. She crocheted the blanket you see on the table.

The winner of the bubblegum, baby sculpting competition.The man responsible for getting all this started. My Amazing Husband!

Mother's Day 2010

2010-05-16T08:35:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm a couple of weeks late in posting this.
These are the beautiful gifts that I got from my children for Mother's Day.

Two gorgeous, hand painted coffee mugs.
Artful potter came out to the childrens' school about a week before Mother's day and all the children got to paint a mug for their Moms.

I couldn't have asked for a better gift.
My daughter wanted to know who's mug I was going to drink my coffee out of first.
I told her I would put half my coffee in her mug and half my coffee in my son's mug.
she was satisfied with that answer.

Miserable.

2010-05-13T18:25:00.000-07:00

7 weeks. I only have 7 weeks to go until I'm home free.
This baby has hijacked my body for the time being and I'm simply miserable.
Don't get me wrong, I'm very happy to be pregnant and I'm overjoyed that I'm able to give life to another human being.
However, these past 2 weeks have really been hard on me.
Lately, I've had trouble sleeping. I can't seem to find a comfortable position.
When I wake up in the morning, instead of feeling well rested, I have aches and pains in my hips and pelvic bone.
Ugh.
In some ways 7 weeks seems like it's a long ways off, but I know that it will go by faster than I think.

I'm trying my best to enjoy these last several weeks, knowing that this is the last time I'll ever be pregnant.
For now, when I'm feeling miserable and in constant pain, I need to remind myself to be focused on the final prize at the end.
A beautiful baby!

Don't call me chubby!

2010-04-21T23:54:00.000-07:00

Seriously. It's not funny to call a pregnant woman "Chubby". Even if you are a really good friend of mine and you like joking with me.
Don't do it.

For one, I know I'm not "Chubby", I have a baby growing inside me so I have every reason to have gained 28 lbs.
I'm not ashamed. I'll tell you how much I've gained, you can ask me about my weight, I don't mind, just don't call me "Chubby".
Also, while we are on the subject, please don't say, "Wow, you're huge!" Or, ask me if I'm having twins.
Rude.
Down right rude.

Thankfully, I've only had one personal friend who has called me chubby. Most friends tell me that I look good for being 7 months along and they can't believe the baby is due in 10 weeks.

I had a rough day today, so I'm letting out some of my frustration on my blog.
Please don't think I'm a crabby, pregnant woman, because most of the time I'm not.
Everyone has a right to a bad day.
The day is done and it's time for bed.
Here's to a better day tomorrow.
And don't call me chubby!

Let's get healthy!

2010-04-05T22:26:00.000-07:00

At the beginning of the school year, I was so excited to start packing healthy lunches for my kids.
I looked up several websites and got lots of ideas for healthy, unique school lunches.
I would plan out their weekly meals and was so happy to have my kids eating healthier.
Well, that didn't last for long.
About 2 months into the school year I started to slack off and the kids started to eat school lunches more and more often.

Enough! I've seen what my children eat at school and let me tell you, it's not good.
Nachos? A brownie for dessert? Pizza? Yuck.
All of the food is highly processed and microwaved. It doesn't even taste very good, I've tried it before and was not impressed at all.
So, I've decided to try to get back into the swing of things and start packing them healthy lunches again.
I hope I can keep up with this because it is so much better for my children.

Monday:
Ham and cheese roll ups
Pineapple chunks
Veggie chips and applesauce.

My daughter loved the ham and cheese roll ups, both of them ate all of their fruit.
However, my daughter did not like the veggie chips, but my son ate almost all of his lunch. Only a few veggie chips were left over.
Oh yeah, and they both got a small chocolate chip cookie.
We'll see how tomorrow goes.

Tuesday:
Peanut butter & banana sub (made using hot dog buns)
Pineapple chunks
Veggie chips for my son with a strawberry yogurt.
Daughter got applesauce, a wedge of laughing cow cheese and some trail mix.

I'll try to post photos of their lunches, when ever I post them.

Let's keep our fingers crossed that I don't run out of steam this time around.
Only a little over 10 weeks left of school.
We can do it!
Here's to healthy lunches!

Is it March already?

2010-03-14T13:20:00.000-07:00

Wow. Time sure does fly. I only have 108 more days to go until this little one inside my tummy makes an appearance.
The kids only have a little over 2 months left until summer vacation.
It is going to be a busy summer, we'll have lots of visitors. I told my kids that there are going to be a lot of changes in their lives after this little one comes along.
They are both very excited for the baby, but I know the novelty is going to ware off in a couple of months or so.
They are good kids and they've been helping me out around the house tons! I'm so grateful for them.
My husband has been super too! He never complains about having to help me out around the house.
He even helps with making dinner when I'm just too tired to make it.
I have two baby showers coming up soon.
One of them will be in Phoenix where all of my family lives. I'm really looking forward to seeing my family and spending time with old friends. Some of my friends I've known since high school, which seems funny because it is my 20 year reunion this year.
The other shower will be here at home. Lots of friends from church and school will be attending.
We have such a close knit community here that it will be really nice to have everyone together for such a special occasion.
I'm feeling good, glad my nausea is all gone, now it's time for the home stretch.
Come on, June......let's do this thing!

Just Kickin it.

2010-02-19T15:51:00.000-08:00

The baby is sitting very low in my tummy. He/she just seems to kick the heck out of my bladder. Ouch. Not comfortable at all, but I'm happy every time I feel the baby kick.
On a more exciting note, both of my children have felt the baby kick!
My son felt the baby kick a few days ago. It was funny to see the reaction on his face. His eyes just about popped out of his head and he said, "I felt it, it kicked me!" My daughter finally felt the baby kick last night. She was so happy to feel it for the first time because every other time she tried to feel the baby kick, it wouldn't.
I'm 21 weeks today, half way there.
I'm not sure if my son will want to feel the baby kick anymore because later that evening he said, "It's a little creepy. It kind of feels like you have an alien inside there."
So true, my son, so true.

Simple stir fry recipe

2010-02-08T12:47:00.000-08:00

Teriyaki Pork Stir Fry

Simple recipe I made from my Weight watchers Ultimate flex & core cookbook.

4 tsp. sunflower oil
1lb. pork tenderloin, cut into 1 x 1/4 inch thick strips
1/4 lb. fresh shitake mushrooms, stems removed and sliced
1 red bell pepper, seeded and cut into thin strips
1 Tablespoon grated, peeled fresh ginger
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 lb. fresh snow peas, trimmed and halved lengthwise
1/4 cup reduced sodium chicken broth
3 Tablespoons reduced sodium teriyaki sauce
1 tsp. grated orange zest

Heat a large nonstick skillet or wok over medium high heat until a drop of water sizzles. Pour in 2 teaspoons of the oil and swirl to coat the pan, then add half the pork. Stir fry until browned and cooked through, about 4 minutes. Transfer the pork to a plate with a slotted spoon. Repeat with the remaining pork.

Heat the remaining 2 teaspoons oil in the same skillet over medium high heat. Add the mushrooms and stir fry until they begin to soften, about 1 minute. Add the bell pepper, ginger and garlic; stir fry until slightly softened, about 2 minutes. Add the pork and snow peas; stir fry until the snow peas turn bright green, about 1 minute. Add the broth, teriyaki sauce, and orange zest; cook until the sauce thickens slightly and the vegetables are crisp tender, about 1 minute.

Prep: 15 minutes
Cook: Approx. 15 minutes
Serves: 4

Points value: 5

Something is definitely wrong.

2010-01-30T15:28:00.000-08:00

I know something is wrong because I'm no longer feeling nauseaous 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
It snuck up on me about 3 days ago.
I woke up feeling, well, how can I explain it other than, I felt good! I didn't feel like I was going to throw up, I wasn't gagging at every little scent that came happened to cross my path.
This must be it!
Dare I say my morning sickness is over?
It can't be. I've been used to this sick feeling for 18 weeks.
Now I can actually eat again like a normal person. Yippee! I'm so happy.
To celebrate "No more morning sickness" my Husband toook me to my favorite Mexican Restaruant and I had a great big bowl of Chil Colorado.

It really hit the spot.
Sure, I had a bit of heartburn later in the day but an antacid tablet took care of that.
Now I can let out a big sigh of relief.
That was a long, roller coaster ride of nausea but I'm glad it's all behind me.
Time to tackle all of the baby stuff that need to get done before the baby arrives.
I can't wait to see this little monkey!

A little bit of sweetness from my daughter.

2010-01-25T19:20:00.000-08:00

I had a particularly bad day of morning sickness. My daughter took it upon herself to make me a "Get well Card".
She gave it to me in the morning as I was lying on the couch, feeling sorry for myself.
She hoped it would help me to feel better.
She handed me the card and then rubbed my tummy and told the baby, "Stop making Mommy sick". It was such a cute moment.
The card really did make me feel better.
It was a reminder that al of this nausea will be worth it in the end.
Thank you sweet Daughter, I love you!

Who are these kids and why are they so sweet?

2010-01-21T20:39:00.000-08:00

I have had an awful bout of morning sickness/nausea today.
I've been lying on the couch most of the day trying to rest and keep my mind off of how horrible I feel.
Both of my children stayed home today due to the storm that hit us late last night.
As lunch time approached I wasn't sure how I was going to make lunch for the children and my Husband who would be joining us for lunch at any moment.

Then, out of no where, without me having to say anything, my darling, 7 year old son asked if I wanted him to make lunch? Of course I was ecstatic that he offered. I wasn't exactly sure what he was going to make, but I knew he'd figure something out.
My daughter immediately jumped in to help.
They proceeded to gather together all the items needed for PB & J sandwiches.
My son spread the peanut butter, my daughter spread the jelly, they also put some sliced fruit on the plate and topped it off with peanuts.

I was so proud of them. How sweet of them to help me out!
When I told them that I was very proud of them and that they made my heart smile, my son said, "I'm sorry you are so sick Mom. I hope you feel better soon so you can do things with us again instead of lying on the couch all day."
What a sweet heart.

Sometimes I doubt myself as a Mom and I wonder if I'm doing a good enough job in raising my children to be responsible, caring, independant people. It's days like this when I know I'm doing a good enough job.

Bargain of the day!

2010-01-20T18:00:00.000-08:00

Can you believe I found this lovely dress for only $3.99?

I consider myself a frugal Mom and I love a bargain.
I was at my local Savers thrift store the other day and I came across this beauty for under $4.00!
I thought it would be a lovely Easter dress for my daughter.
There are tons of bargains out there ladies, if you haven't been to your local neighborhood thrift store recently, I encourage you to get out there and start shopping!
It's a great way to be green too, don't you think?

Linked to:
Coastal Charm

Slow cooker chicken posole (mexican stew)

2010-01-16T16:48:00.000-08:00

1 lb. skinless, boneless chicken trimmed and cut into 1 in. pieces.
1 14.5 oz. can hominey (yellow or white, it doesn't matter).
1 14.5 oz. can diced tomatoes with green chilies ( I used rotel).
1 4 oz. can chopped green chilies, drained
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables, such as onion, pepper and celery. I use fresh vegetables and sautee them till softened.
1 cup reduced sodium chicken broth
1 garlic clove, minced1/2 tsp. ground cumin
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4tsp. black pepper
1 lime, cut into 4 wedges.

Preparation
1. Place all the ingredients except the lime in a 4 to 5 quart slow cooker.
2. Cover and cook until the vegetables are tender, 4-5 hours on high or 7 hours on low.
Serve with lime wedges.
May also garnish with chopped cilantro.

This only serves 4, so I usually make a double batch and freeze some for later.

Linked to: Tasty Tuesday Parade
All things Related Tuesday

Wanna know if it's a boy or a girl?

2010-01-13T18:41:00.000-08:00

I want to know too.
However, we won't be finding out the sex of the baby.
Sorry to disappoint you, along with all my other friends and family, but we've decided to not find out.
We didn't find out the sex with our first two pregnancies and it was the best surprise in the world.
It killed me to not know if I was having a boy or a girl.
I'm the kind of girl who does not like surprises!
I was the kind of girl who snuck around the Christmas tree at night when my Parents were asleep and I would search for my presents and carefully peel open one side of the package to see what my gift would be.
Bad, I know.
That's just me.
Fortunately, my Husband talked me into waiting.
Thank you, sweetie for talking me into doing something that I didn't want to do, it truly was worth the wait with each birth.
There was no sneaking around this time.

So just keep in mind, if you know someone who is pregnant and they don't want to know the sex of the baby, be nice to them. Don't ridicule them or exclaim, "What? You don't want to know what you're having?"
I'm sure they have their reasons. They just might want to be as surprised as we were when I thought for sure I was having a boy and I heard those beautiful words I'd been waiting to hear, "Congratulations, it's a girl!"

Hand made jewelry

2010-01-12T19:32:00.000-08:00

A few of my creations that I have made with my own two hands.
I started out making jewelry about 2 years ago.
A friend of mine showed me how to get started with the basics. Once I found out how easy it was to do, I was addicted.
I sell some of my items on etsy, but mostly I sell to friends and family. Knowing how to make your own jewelry really does come in handy when you need a last minute gift for someone.Here is just a small sample of some of my items.
If you have any questions, feel free to ask.

Enjoy!

Why do they call it morning sickness?

2010-01-08T17:58:00.001-08:00

I'm currently 15 weeks pregnant with my 3rd child and I'm glad to say I've never experienced morning sickness.
Really, I haven't.
It's not fair to call it morning sickness when it's 24 hours of nausea.
I prefer for it to be called "All day sickness" because I've been nauseous all day for the past 8 weeks.
Today has easily been the worst day of "all day" sickness during this pregnancy.

The only thing I have had to eat today was some french bread with olive oil, a few orange slices and some tea.
I am so hungry, yet I can't seem to keep anything down.
My husband and children are currently in the dining room chomping down on some pizza and listening to the soothing sounds of "House of Pain."
Oh, how I wish I could eat some and groove out to the music with them.
My poor tummy is just growling away.

Here is a list of all the foods that currently disgust be which I hope to be able to eat again someday soon.

Pizza
Salad
french fries
red meat
pasta with red sauce
bananas
rice
eggs

I know there are more to add to the list, but that's all I can think of for now.
I will just continue to ride this carousel of nausea unil it stops.
I do hope that is soon.

Crockpot chicken chowder

2010-01-07T09:59:00.000-08:00

There are not too many foods I can eat these days. Being 4 months pregnant and still quite nauseous, I have to pick my meals carefully.

I came across this recipe online and it is delicious, easy and kid friendly.

Anything that my children eat willingly, on their own with no whining, I consider to be kid friendly.

Enjoy!

Crockpot Chicken chowder

1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1 potato, peeled, cut in 1/2" chunks
4 chopped green onions
1/2 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, in 1-inch cubes
2 cans (approx. 15 ounces each) cream style corn
1/4 cup mashed potato flakes
1 cup skim or lowfat milk
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Preparation

Mix all ingredients except cheese, potato flakes, and milk in slow cooker. Cover and cook on LOW for 5 to 6 hours or until potatoes are tender and chicken is cooked through. Stir in potato flakes and milk and cook on HIGH, uncovered for 15 minutes until chowder has thickened and flakes have dissolved. Top with cheese before serving.

Serves approx. 6

southernfood.about.com/od/crockpotchickensoups
Linked to: All things related Tuesday

The Simple life

2010-01-05T21:10:00.001-08:00

"Happiness consists not in having much, but in being content with little."
-Marguerite Gardiner, Countess of Blessington.

I came across this quote today and it really hit me. It helps to remind me to be grateful for what I have in life.
I don't live in a mansion, I don't have expensive jewels or wear designer clothes.
However, I have a loving family, I have a roof over my head, I have food in my pantry.
It may not be a glamorous life, but it's my life and I'm content.

It's days like these when I miss you the most

2010-01-01T21:51:00.000-08:00

Days when my kids won't stop arguing.
Days when I am sick and tired of being sick and tired.
Days when I want to make enchiladas for my family, but I can never quite seem to get the recipe right and make it as delicious as you used to.
Days when I'm lonely and I just need someone to talk to.
Days when I want to tell you something cute or funny that one of the kids said.
Days when I feel like I'm having a nervous break down and I just need a shoulder to cry on.
Days when I've created something with my own two hands and I want you to know that I really did inherit your creative gene.
Days when I'm nursing my son's broken arm and I want you to tell me how to make it all better.
Days when I hear my unborn baby's heartbeat for the first time and I'm overwhelmed with emotion.
Days when I want to ask you if you see me as a child when you see my Daughter.
Days when I've had a rough day and I want you to comb your fingers through my hair and tell me, " Everything is going to be ok".
Days when I want you to see what a pretty good person I've grown up to be.
Days when people you used to know say, "Wow, you look just like her".
Days when I hear someone playing the piano and it brings tears to my eyes because it makes me think about you and the beautiful music you used to play.
Days when I look down at my hands and for a moment I swear that I see your hands.

Today is that day. Every day is that day.

I miss you every day of my life. I'm so grateful that I had you in my life for 23 years. You were my best friend.

I love you, Mom!

Love always, Your Daughter

Our year in review 2009

2009-12-31T12:55:00.000-08:00

2009 in a nut shell: (Not in chronological order).

-We spent New Year's in Phoenix with my family.
-We also attended the Fiesta Bowl Parade.
- visited my Mom's grave site. I was sad and cried. My children gave me lots of love that day.
-I lost a family member to suicide. That made me very, very sad.
-We spent Spring break in Colorado Springs visiting Greg's family.
-Our daughter turned 5.
-Our son turned 7.
-We planted a garden.
-We enjoyed fresh vegetables from our garden.
-I tried new recipes. Surprisingly, no one contracted salmonella or mad cow disease from my cooking.
-Our son learned to tie his shoes.
-I volunteered my time teaching homeless women how to make jewelry. This put a smile on their faces and I felt good.
You can read more about the homeless shelter herehttp://www.theshadetree.org/:.
-Our son learned to roller skate. He skated all night long, I had to practically drag him out of the roller rink.
-We said good bye to our beloved cat of 14 years, Domino. We all cried.
-Our daughter started Kindergarten. I cried.
-Our daughter learned to read.
-My Hubby led the school children on a Mountain hike. When asked, "What was your favorite part?" Most of them said, "When he taught us about deer poop and what it looks like." We laughed.
-Our son lost a tooth.
-We attended the annual "Gurule Family Reunion" in Quemado, NM.
-We visited the Grand Canyon. It was rainy.
-My brother, his wife and their 3 children came to visit us. We had a great time.
-My In Laws came to visit. My son got his first BB gun from Grandpa. It was a nice visit.
-We visited the Grand Canyon again. It was hot and sunny.
-Our children turned into "Tree huggers". Literally.
-Our son started Tae kwon do. He is currently a yellow belt.
-My son and I completed a 4 mile run in the mountains. My son made better time than I did.
-I tried a new hair do. Decided it wasn't for me.
-We attended the "Albuquerque balloon fiesta". It was cold and windy. -We ate some delicious New Mexican cuisine at the fiesta. I was very happy.
-My Hubby turned 37.
-My Hubby said farewell to a long time employee who decided to move to Utah.
-I turned 37. I didn't cry.
-Our son broke his arm. He and I both cried.
-I found out I was pregnant. I cried, again.
-Our son had 2 titanium rods inserted into his arm. He cried, I didn't.
-My morning sickness kicked in. I was mad.
-Our son had his rods removed. Neither of us cried. He felt crummy.
-Our son had cast and stitches removed. He screamed bloody murder.
-The very last day of 2009......I heard my baby's heartbeat. I was glad. I did a *happy* dance!

Watch out 2010, here come the Bernhardt bunch, with one more addition on the way.
Can't wait to see what adventures await us.

Happy New Year, everyone!

All aboard

2009-12-29T10:09:00.000-08:00

Here it is.
My blog.
My very own blog.

I've been interested in starting my own blog for quite sometime.
Why Not?
It's not like I'm busy in my every day life.
I can blog when the cleaning lady comes once a week to scrub my floors, do my laundry, wash the dishes and vacuum.
Or, when I'm at the spa getting my weekly mani/pedi.
I can blog when my children are in school and I have nothing better to do except sit around eating bon bons and watching my daily Soap Operas.

Ha. Ok, so none of that is true. Truth is.....I don't have any time to blog.
I just thought I'd throw it into my daily list of "Things to do" because I'm a little crazy.

Honestly, I think it's a great way to keep my family and friends updated on our chaotic life.
Living in the mountains, married to my wonderful Husband of 9 years and being a stay at home Mom of 2, soon to be 3 children is never without it's fair share of adventures.

When was the last time you stepped out your front door and took a short walk to the highway to cheer on a bunch of cyclists doing a 17 mile, all up hill road race?
My daughter proudly adorned her bicycle helmet and walked her bike to the barricade to yell, "Good job, you can do it, almost there!" to all of the participants.
My son and his friend also helped to cheer all the cyclists on to the finish line.
Priceless.

So, here it goes........
Welcome to "The Chronicles of all things Mommy".