The Van Dervens

Where I am lately

2010-03-12T06:40:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the future ya'll. Just trying to stay on top of it.

Anyhoo, if you are needing a fix, that's where I am!

The Daily

2010-02-18T05:57:00.000-08:00

When she is happy? Well, it just doesn't get any cuter than this one. And her chunky little teeth coming in? Torture. For all of us. But OH LORD ARE THEY SO CUTE.

Kid's got an adorable grill.

She doesn't want to be left out of anything, and spends a lot of time pulling herself around the hall between the main living area and the bedroom and whining because she just can't make a decision.

She is super fast, but her crawl is a drag on the back half. So she follows you around like an ornery little old crippled man who refuses to use a wheel chair.

Here are my moody little artists at work. We have been busy doing preschool stuff now that Madee is, well, such a little person now. She is understanding and identifying other people's emotions, like happy and sad, and also telling me "Funny!"

And yesterday when I got out of the shower she cracked my behind and said "BUTT!"

Then walked around me and started pointing at my boobs saying "Meep-Mole"
And then she pulled up her shirt and showed me her meep-moles.

She's brilliant.
Stuff we made that day...

With the blinds down.
Eden's favorite is she wants you to lay on the floor. Not sit, not lean, LAY DOWN ON THE FLOOR.

And then she crawls up and over you repeatedly and giggles her little head off.

Beastie Boys shot.

Here she is playing bongos on my butt with Zeus. They have a very special relationship. Like, he is in love with her. He lets her crawl all over him and rolls around in her Babyland space and totally dotes on her.

Eden had her first whole apple yesterday. She skanked it when I was putting away groceries.

"Ooh that tastes funny!"
The other day the living room went quiet, and this is how I found Eden.

I doubt it will be the last time she is found passed out in her snack tray.

New Skills..

2010-02-15T07:04:00.000-08:00

We suited up and grabbed the tube this weekend for some fun at Chester Bowl, a local park right down the road. It was upexpectedly AWESOME and will totally be where Madee learns to ski. We hucked it up a hill to tube down, and had some serious fun.

Even Eden went tubing!

Highlights of the following video montage...

tubing with Madee and Eden, Madee's virgin ski voyage, Dad's cameraman skills, Ono's nine lives and what it is like living with Zeus...

I found a new button on this laptop and LET ME TELL YOU I can't wait to dazzle you with my new hackey montages!

Happy Valentine's Day!

2010-02-14T09:00:00.000-08:00

You know want to kiss this face.

Happy Valentine's Day everybody!

Remember this holiday is all about love. Not expectations, or candy or presents or flowers. It is abuot love. And as I told my girls all week as we prepared for this glorious occasion of love, Valentine's Day doesn't mean much unless you don't have a Valentine.

When you don't have a Valentine, it can seem pretty lonely because you think all these lucky people who do have Valentines are having such a better day than you. But they aren't. It is seriously just February 14th.

But, if you have family, you have Valentines.

In fact I don't really get how Valentine's Day became a romantic holiday, when most of your love comes from your family.

Oh and so much love comes from this family.

So for us it is a family holiday.

A family holiday of love and devotion and kisses and belonging.

I mean we are Van Dervens. Valentine's Day was just made for us. WE SHARE AN ACRONYM.

Can't wait to take pictures of a cool family in front of this wall eating and dancing.

Madee on the edge of Lake Superior. No I said that right. She is on the edge.

The cool kids.
We send out all of our love to our friends and family on this special day. We have so much love for so many people and we don't tell you guys often enough.

But we love you a lot.

Especially you, Emily and Chelsey!

Dadnapped

2010-02-11T16:29:00.000-08:00

That clocktower is in our view of Lake Superior. I drove down the street the other day with the camera just randomly shooting out the window.

Today was gym day again. Thursdays are always the best days... And today was a super special gym day, because we kidnapped dad from work!

So both the kids got one on one attention at playtime. It was awesome and Madee did some new stuff.

Eden has a tooth or something because she has had a rough time last night and today. She really didn't feeling like doing much at the gym but she was sure to pose for some pretty pictures with her cool Dad.

She can't wait to run around on her little legs.

Dad leans into things. I think that is where Madee gets it.

Sassy in the foam pit. She loved having a partner to do all her stuff with.

We did the balance beam...

And some tandem jumping...
Weeeeeeee!
And a new fave, hanging from the bar.

This was her first time really hanging until she couldn't anymore.

And as soon as she would land, she was all " More More"!

There was also a whole lot of running races and hollering and giggling. And there were a few little 5 year old boys flirting with Madee until they found out she was time out bait!

February Fun

2010-02-09T13:17:00.000-08:00

The bath is a regular source of fun around here. It's kind of a big thing. Sometimes it gets a little drained and reheated and rebubbled when it is a really good one.

I mean, what is a kid to do when the outside time is limited?

Sister power!

They really enjoy having each other. Eden can pull herself anywhere and everywhere now, and can pull herself up to standing.

The only real doorway we have for her jumper is a closet by the front door. She may seem contained in a harness with no real means to get into trouble.

But this is what she did in there this morning.
She's such a hellraiser. If she has a toy in her hand she will beat the crap out of you with it.
Seriously.
And laugh.

Madee must know what I am going through with this whole "potty guiding" thing, now that Baby is giving it a try.

We have been having fun themey art times with Valentine's day around the corner...

Madee loves to rub the stamp pad all over her body.

"tattoos"

Madee got this cool felt set for Christmas. We love to make little stories, and they all involve Mimi. (One of the little cutouts is a girl with braided yellow pigtails, and Madee calls it Mimi!)

It is hard to play with her sometimes because she doesn't understand social customs and accepted behavior and physical laws like gravity or weight capacity.

She gets so pissed if I correct her, and who am I, anyway? If she wants all the furniture in the baby crib, who am I to question her? Did she hire me as her consultant? No?

Then suck it, Mom. And help me stack every felt piece in this pile and put the baby crib on top like everything in the house is in the baby crib.

I like it that way.

I try to bite my tongue and let her do it her way.

At least she isn't eating it.

6 ? WOW!

2010-02-06T05:53:00.000-08:00

I can't believe little Ono Moriah is 6 today! I remember when she was just a 1 pound 6 ounce morsel that fit in one hand.

She was such an adorable little baby. And now she has seen me through marriage and 2 more little babies. And what a sweet little lady she is.

Everybody loves Ono.

Happy Birthday little Monkey!

They do stuff

2010-02-05T10:48:00.000-08:00

And they like each other!

A better day

2010-02-04T09:38:00.000-08:00

It's 27 degrees out, and although this may sound ridiculous, that's pretty warm in these parts. So getting the girls to gymnastics today was a breeze.

Well, my version of a breeze.

Of course there still may have been a little yelling/screaming/crying, but that was just me. The girls were awesome.

Just kidding. I have actually broken through a wall, so to speak, and regained my patience and empathy for the kids.

I also found a babysitter.

So despite the fact that Eden had a worse night last night than usual, and they are both screeching right now, I am feeling very Zen about it all.

Maybe because I know we have been up since early, went to gymnastic s play time, had our lunch and poops, and we are just working out the rest of the energy before we all fall asleep for a long winter's nap.

At least THEY will.
And I won't even know what to do with myself.

The Edge

2010-02-03T08:36:00.000-08:00

It used be a club in Orlando that I would go to on Wednesdays and Friday nights to dance.

Now it is just this place I spend so much time I think I might need to start getting my mail here. These kids.

I love them so hard it hurts.

It was sobering to read Madee's 8 month post the other day. All the sensitivity and sweetness and newness of being a mother.

Because now I sound like Roseanne.

These kids yell and scream so much. They even do it when they are happy. They do it so much I can only do it back.

It is my self defense and it just makes everything worse. I mean, I am the only one here with the brains yet to figure out that screaming and yelling is miserable for EVERYBODY. That it is disturbing to others. But I can't even tell you the last time I got more than 2 hours straight of sleep, much less had a full tank of patience.

My guilt tank is over-spilling lately, though.

I think I can blame it all on Eden. That helpless little baby who would love nothing more than to help herself instead of screaming for the things she wishes she had words for.

But I know it is my fault, because I remember going through this with Madee. I remember thinking she was trying to kill me. I remember thinking she was ruining my life.

Dude. Moms are just people. I don't think you can realize that until you have kids and by then you have already blamed everything on your own mother so I guess that sentiment can get lost on her, but seriously any and every mother just wants you to CUT HER A BREAK!

My point is, kids, my kids, if you are reading this, I admit: we had some rough days when you were really little, and it was probably traumatic for all of us, but you were meaner to me than I was to you, and since you guys "don't know any better" I sometimes seemed like the bad guy.

I know we will look back on this and laugh someday. And that day will be when you have kids.
Only you will be laughing to keep from crying like I am now, and I will be laughing at the irony of life, the full circle that is our existence, and the slight dementia setting in from being old.

I love you guys.

But I will delight a little in your future perceived misery when things seem like they are knuckleheaded turrible, but really they are actually just not funny (to you) yet.

So clever...

2010-02-03T06:29:00.000-08:00

Things I find when all goes quiet in the house...

What is Eden doing?
Hmmmm......
So now she crawls UP things.

Joy.

Don't celebrate yet, Madee. I don't think you understand what this means for you.

You know that "safe place" you like to eat your lunch?

Remember it fondly.
Because no place is safe from her now...

Ha. Stinker.

We like to keep it clean.

2010-02-02T06:14:00.000-08:00

I went crazy taking pictures yesterday. There is so much cuteness that goes on here in a day, and I always want to share but there is also so much whining and crying and stuff that sometimes I can't get to the camera. I don't even know how to filter through all these shots so I will just let you enjoy them all...

OMG! They are BOTH looking at me!

After an altercation...

unsuspecting
jerk baby
I brush my hair with a fish...

brace for impact

wash the baby
waaaaaaaaaaa.
I surrender!
Sleep with one eye open, Mad.

8 months old

2010-02-01T07:44:00.000-08:00

She is already 8 months old. This is how old Madee was when we conceived her.
Notice her right hand.
Yep. I am pretty sure she is giving me the finger.

Coincidence? Oh, I don't think so.

The tagline on her sign says,"I think she's trying to kill us."

I know, I know. You are looking at that face, those lips those eyes - NO! Do not make eye contact! SHE WILL SUCK YOU IN!

She's horrifying. She attacks you when you are sleeping. She wants to squeeze you to death. Her screech is among the worst sounds you will ever hear in your life. Madee is traumatized by her voice.

When she starts winding up, Madee grabs my leg and cries, puts her hands over her ears and zones out...she seeks refuge in her bed.

Her eyes haven't completely turned yet. They are dark - very dark, but you can see in person that they are still very green. Here they are lit up with the flash...

I know. I take the cutest pictures of her being happy, but she is usually crying or screaming or somehow otherwise discontent.

It has the whole family wandering around in sleepless, senseless shell shock and we are starting to turn on each other.
Oh but isn't she adorable?

Madee decided to get in on the photo action.

Eden giving Madee a surly look for trying to steal her thunder. Eden is surly. Much surlier than Madee was. Surly like an outlaw biker.

Plus, Madee started her period, so the house is full of crankiness and crying lately.

I made her a special fort and Eden isn't allowed in. If only it were sound proof.

People ask me all the time, "How do you know when your photo shoot is over?"

I don't know.You just feel it.

0 degrees and counting

2010-01-30T08:58:00.000-08:00

Here's a picture of a just awakened Madee, with her best Daddy face on. Her hair even looks like his bedhead!

I love those lips.

Again with the lips. Showcasing her "I am so cool" posture.
She leans in to things.
And really settles in.
She just seems so grown up now.
We hit a quarter merry go round at the mall. Only it costs a dollar.

So we got the family's money's worth.

The Hygiene Queen just after a bath.

Head suds.

Oh this smile is to die for.

She gives a lot of good face lately...

and oh that hair!Happy Birthday GrandDaddy!

Fun with Friends

2010-01-28T09:20:00.000-08:00

So today we went to the Gymnastics Academy here in Duluth for open Preschool Play Gym. It was AWESOME!

Look at all these friends!

The time is alotted for kids 0 to 6, so both of the girls had so much fun! Madee got to run around and jump on a trampoline and play in a foam pit, and Eden practiced crawling all over stuff.

And baby push ups!
We also learned that when Madee gets nervous she takes her clothes off.

I don't even think she was hot, and I kept showing her the other kids who were wearing clothes and explaining that is just how things are done outside the house.

Although it did make her the cutest kid there.

There were all sorts of bounce stations and fun and kids running around. What a great way to spend some time and energy! It has been a while since they have been well enough to play with others, so it was long over due.

Even though it -7 degrees when we pulled into the parking lot.

You have no idea the drama, trauma, and crazy mama that goes on trying to get these 2 in and out of clothing and cars and buildings.

It is seriously a lot of physical and mental stress to keep everybody pulled together and usually, at least one of us is crying.

It is also fun being the novelty mom that just moved here from Southern California. Oh the looks I get! Mamas just can't believe I would even agree to something like coming here in January.

Yes I said -7 degrees this morning.

As in feels like -22.

Like I could tell the difference!
Here's Eden's home workout...obviously I figured out video again.

Cute little monkey!

Crayola Vendetta

2010-01-27T11:21:00.001-08:00

So sweet for an art supply assassin...

I don't get it. I seriously don't understand her problem with crayon tips, her play-do and chalk food cravings, her need to suck the dirty water off the watercolor paintbrush.

It grosses me out.

But mostly it makes me crazy.

I didn't really have to share art supplies when I was a kid, since my sisters were born after I was 13, and I am not good at it. I want my own.

Of course every time I buy my own anything she finds it and it disintegrates in her fingers. She is a master of seeing something that wasn't there before.

Yesterday we went to Shopko and spent some of Madee's birthday money on art supplies and inside fun. I was so excited to show her the new color pencils and crayons and paints, because she seriously loves that kind of stuff.

Within minutes we were in time out. Not for eating the goods, but for eating them after I had just told her not to. At least 5 times. Everybody has their breaking point.

Anyway the awesome thing is she is just attracted to and hungry for my make up.

Everything she touches breaks. Even my brain.
Not that it was as sharp as those brand new crayons.

Oh, and can you see that new tooth on top? It loves crayons too. Only she doesn't get a hold of my crayons.
She is too busy giving Madee's a taste of her own waxy medicine!
And the fighting begins!

Bananas

2010-01-26T07:51:00.000-08:00

Eden LOVES to eat. She has been having yo baby yogurt and avocados and bananas lately. She also had Madee's roast beef sandwich yesterday.

She loves Zeus.

He loves her back.

She loves having her sister jump on her belly and give her tickles. They roll on the floor laughing.

She loves being cute.

She also loves sharing.
All of YOUR stuff.

and she can't wait to make fun of Madee's plumber crack.

Max and Ruby

2010-01-25T08:26:00.000-08:00

I can't stand that show. Ruby is so bossy and Max hardly ever talks and little bunny voices are annoying.

Says me.

However, Madee is over there CRACKING THE HECK UP in a building laughter that culminates in a wild obnoxious cackle and ends with "Oh Max, max MAX! ha ha Max and Booby!"

And I am SO reminded of myself.
Watching AFV.
During an awesome "large people trying to parasail" montage.

Of course when I want to get a picture of her this is all the enthusiasm she can muster.

No, seriously. That is the enthusiastic picture.

MInnesota

2010-01-24T16:35:00.000-08:00

So I have to say that Minnesota has been rather warm compared to what I expected. It snowed all day today, and strangely enough it was still like 34 degrees and a lot like Tahoe snow.

Madee just had to get out for some play time with Dad.
Eden is getting over a cold, so we stayed in the truck and played Beastie Boys Album Cover.

Almost there. Cause Eden in so in your FACE!

Nice one...

Finally figured out

2010-01-23T12:01:00.000-08:00

After a lot of struggling...

here are some pictures I have not been able to download for a week or so. Madee of course, had her birthday right before we left Tahoe, and she thinks cakes are the best part of birthdays for sure.
And she also loves baths finally. But still isn't keen on the whole hair washing thing...

Every picture I took during this bath, Eden had the same face, like she was just a little super imposed image.

She often looks a little worried during bathtime with Madee, since Madee really enjoys washing her hair, and she isn't so keen on that, just like her sister.

Pretty doe eyes.
Madee on the road in South Dakota. She is such a good traveler.

Eden's sweetie face. She is a good traveler too.

Sometimes we stop to get out for giggles and kisses.

Her hair is growing like crazy and has lots of wave in it like her dad. But she is getting closer to my color.
Dad's hot
Shoulder rides. (Same cow lick.)
Ear bites.
Seriously. Dad's hot.

Ariel Panties

2010-01-23T07:21:00.000-08:00

More Potty News

2010-01-13T08:11:00.000-08:00

Oh yeah.
2 times last night.
2 times this morning.

And today will be spent with no pants!

She is sitting at her potty now with the books I outfitted her station with.

She really loves being a big girl, and I don't think I have been this excited about anything EVER!

I even scared Eden during this morning's celebration.

I can't even tell you how cool she is!
I can't wait to pull ups and panties!

THIS JUST IN!

2010-01-12T20:13:00.000-08:00

Oh I can't believe it!

Madee just went pee in her little frog potty for the first time EVER!
How freaking cool is that?

Potty is something we talk about all the time, but there has never been any pressure WHATSOEVER. It just isn't a rush for me.

So I think it is cool that she is just up and did it.

Such a big girl.

She rocks my world.

She's 2!

2010-01-10T11:34:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it.
2 is awesome.

Sure she is loud and screamy and unreasonable sometimes.

But she's my sunshine.
You should hear her play the harmonica. She knows colors and some letters and she knows people's names.

She knows what things are, how things work, and she is such a great big help to her little sister.

She's a great partner in crime, loves chinese food, and runs like a goofball on purpose. She loves friends, loves to swing and play and is a conscientious caregiver to her baby dolls.

She growls like a tiger a lot - even sometimes she just talks with her growl voice, which is one of my absolute favorite things.
She's a headbutter, a hard snuggler, a song singer and a movie kisser.

I couldn't have dreamed up a more adorable person...(I say as she screams her head off in tenacious rage for having to put on clothes.)

We love her. Every little bit.

Stuff

2010-01-09T12:06:00.000-08:00

Cute little face

Cutest toddler ever.sweetest dessert i ever made
coolest 1 year old on the 'ground until tomorrow!

coolest 35 year old on the playground

coolest sitter upper

Madee's little friend Anya

You have no idea how long it has taken me to upload these few pictures.

I would go into the details of the stupid laptop cursor, the intermittent internet connection, the screaming kids, the traveling all over CA, the moving to MN, packing up, tying up loose ends, selling things on craigslist, returning things our freinds' have left here, not to mention runny noses, coughs and aches, irritable-ness, and occasional angry outbursts - but we don't really need to do that, do we?

Let me tell you about how the stupid cursor for some reason keeps moving, deleting pictures, and royally hecking me off.

Technology is not my friend as of late. And I could seriously care less.
My phone isn't even working.

I feel obligated to let you know I am okay.

But when I am on a computer or the internet I am NOT okay - I am frustrated, hurried, screamed at by small children.

It has become the stupidest thing in the world, and I cannot even tell you.

Because of this stupid cursor.

Besides. My kids don't like the internet, and could care less if Mommy has time for it.

So blame it on the selfish kids for preferring me to play with them.

Now, onto more adorable kid pictures.
And if I loved you before, I still love you.
I just have no time right now.

I only have time for this.

I love the way her hair turned out this time.

This little Eden is still quite a goofball.

When I was pregnant with her, I couldn't wear anything tight - even a belt on a robe - without her kicking at it like it bothered her.

She still hates pants. She gets mad at anything that isn't super comfy.

She is so grabby now. You can't have anything in front of her without her trying to grab it and squeeze it to death. Like, keep your kittens away from Eden.

She grabs Zeus forehead skin and pulls until you can't see his eyes anymore.

We always hurt the ones we love.

She is all about togetherness, and prefers alot of 'sit in your lap' time. If she is playing happily on the floor, and turns around to see Madee in my lap, she starts crying.

All more of why I don't do the internet lately.

She is also mega-close to crawling and really making me unavailable.

Anyway, I have endured through this hecking cursor issue and let me tell you it hasn't been easy.

By the way, Madee is pretty fluent in English now. Sometimes I don't know what she is saying but if she is repeating you, she is good at it.

Ergo the "hecking".

Just doing our part to make sure the other kid's moms will still want to invite Madee and Eden over despite their wacky parents!

I am also having video issues, so I can't share the live stuff.
It is sad to be you. It is some really cute stuff.
I will work on it when I get a chance.
Ha.

Birthday Party

2010-01-04T21:52:00.000-08:00

We had a little beachside BBQ for MAdee's 2nd birthday party in Oceanside.

She was just a doll. She and Neener made this birthday hat.

It's my party...

This picture perfectly captures the essence of her right now.

Birthday setting.
Birthday kisses.
And then some.
And then some more.

Goodness.

Sister tackle.

Yum!

Happy Feet.

7 Months Old!

2010-01-01T20:23:00.000-08:00

It seems pretty ridiculous to be saying this already.

I don't know where all this time has gone. I just know it hasn't gone towards sleeping.

She is seriously the cooiest, giggliest baby I have ever known in person. She is quite charming and everybody just wants to get a piece of her.

Seriously - I just don't think it gets much cuter than this.

Goodness.
She is so fast and scoochity already - look out world, Eden's coming to get you!

Happy Monthiversary, Pumkin!

Happy New Year, everybody! From our little family to you and wherever you keep your heart, may your days be filled with blessings and your wildest dreams come true in 2010!

Scenes from our Christmas

2009-12-26T12:27:00.000-08:00

I have kind of broken up with the internet. It was a relationship of convenience, and now that it isn't as convenient, I have just kind of given up on the whole thing.

I am sure this is terrible for some of my family members...but I have a couple of family members right here that would rather I not be involved with anyone else right now, anyway.

Anyway, our Christmas was awesome and merry and bright and that is thanks to a few people out there, especially grandparents.

We have lots of things going on right now, and me having an internet connection really isn't one of them and I AM JUST FINE WITH THAT.

I am sorry internet, it isn't you, it's me.

I assume when things settle down after the New Year I will be more into you.

And of course I will still put pictures up.

Because I just can't deprive you of this cuteness...

Winter Wonderland

2009-12-21T14:26:00.000-08:00

Here are some pics from the last week or so in SoCal...

Boho Mama.
This one kills me.
Gorgeous surfer daddy
Guess who is so big now!
And guess who is feeling broken in!

We left the Rv in Oceanside and traveled up together for Christmas and some doctor appointments. It is going to be a white Christmas for us!

Well, kind of.

It has been a while since fresh stuff, so the snow is a little dirty.

Anyway Eden loves her high chair since we have been back. She also likes to chase cheerios around and drink from this sippy cup.

Such a big girl so fast!

Madee and Eden after bath, before pajamas.
Madee is hardcore, and still begs for the playground despite the snow and the cold.

What can I say? Kids need fresh air.

Madee has been toying with the idea of skiing...we just can't seem to get the whole idea moved outside into the snow yet.

They both had Christmas outfits on the other day, and so we tried to get a Christmas photo.

Annoying.

I really feel for my clients when they are trying to get something like this together...

The only one where nobody is moving or crying...

And my fave. Christmas is just better with kids.

Christmas cookies are better with kids too.

Picture Catch Up

2009-12-11T06:14:00.000-08:00

Obviously my relationship with technology has taken a backseat since my laptop went to wherever technology goes when it dies.

But I have this beautiful face to keep me very busy!

Goofball saying "cheese".
Princess face.
600 pictures and 594 of them are the back of her head.

She speaks of herself in the third person.

"Mandee's shubble."
Spinner
6 months old!
I am pretty sure she said "mama" and "booby" to me yesterday.

She is sitting up on her own quite well, and when she falls forward from that position, she is up in a crawl.

She is also scooching all over the place and making lots of 180s and 360s on her belly.

By the way, still the happiest yet loudest baby in the world.

And quite the swinger!

Madee climbs ladders that are over my head, goes down seriously steep slides like it's nothing, and loves this groovy spin machine.

The other kids her age aren't quite as extreme as she is on the playground. She OWNS that place, and runs circles around the 3 and 4 year old crowd.

Beautiful girl.
Just about to lose it!
So happy.
23 months pics - she is out the door - how illustrative of the essence of her right now.

Talk to the hand, Mom!

Gorgoeus.
She knows the words to "Tomorrow" and sings the last verse quite well. She also knows how to tug her arm and make truckers honk at her.

She also wipes up her own messes.
I can't believe we are in the final countdown to 2. We will be celebrating her birthday in Tahoe with her little friends. I can't wait for her to see them - she has grown up so much in the last 2 months.

Holiday Ideas

2009-12-03T11:01:00.000-08:00

So, I keep getting asked what the kids need for Christmas, or even what they want for Christmas, and where to send it.

And I am at a loss.

They need love, food, shelter and clothing.

And that is about it.

They want candy, playtime, and whatever some other kid is playing with. It is just their nature.

I read a quote on a blog site today that really sums up the considerations I wish all toy buyers would think about before purchasing plastic stuff that does little else but turn on and make noise.

**********

Will this toy help her embrace creativity?
Will it stimulate her imagination?
Will it help her learn to be generous?
For this is the beauty-filled youth I know we all want to give our little ones…
the childhood that will teach them
to think beyond themselves and make a difference.
**********

When I packed the RV I brought puzzles, books, puppets and dress up clothes - things that make Madee play with them, instead of just watching them play themselves. And I find that already it has made a difference with her playground friendships, and confused her during indoor playgroups spilling over with plastic toys to fight over.

And that is a good thing.

I know I sound like a hippie. HELLO I live outside for the most part and do my dishes by hand. Today I smell like a hippie, so I don't really care how I sound, but I am trying to get my kids to a simpler place without all the whistles and bells and encourage them to be generous, kind and creative.

And if that makes me a hippie, pass the granola and some blocks made from a sawed up 2X4, ya'll.

Miss Mad

2009-12-02T15:15:00.000-08:00

Here she is mid high five on the slide.
You wouldn't believe all the things she can say. If you want to know, call her, she LOVES to talk on the phone.

Madee has discovered the magic of musical, since I bought Annie the other day. I didn't even think she was going to like it yet, but we popped it in, and right now it is the #1 movie request.

She loves the singing and the dancing and I think she loves the Daddy/daughter dancing and singing the best. She also loves those little orphans running around being scampy together. It is the cutest thing to see her try and sing "Tomorrow" She mostly belts out the "day aaaaaaaaawaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaayyyyy" part.

She gives movie kisses. She nurses her babydoll (what a good little mommy!) She throws things when she doesn't get what she wants. She remember her friends and family's names even when they aren't in front of her.

She idolizes her dad.

I can 't believe she is already almost 2.

And yet I can. Because she is acting so stinking grown up all the time...

More fun for me!

6 Months Owned

2009-12-01T15:02:00.000-08:00

I can't believe that it has already been 6 months. And I know that sounds so easy to say, but seriously, she is growing up really too fast.

This kid is funny. She loves to eat, and has a kung fu grip. She doesn't back down from confrontation, she thinks everything is hilarious, and she will literally rip your hair out.

She has got to be the most prolific pooper since the dawn of time. We haven't lived through a day here if she and someone close to her haven't been covered in poop.

She loves to swing and play and nobody gets her laughing as hysterically as her sister.

She is powerfully adorable.

She OWNS me. And ownership has its privileges.

Kisses and Jumps

2009-11-23T14:27:00.000-08:00

Ida is quite the kisser.
Smack!

She is also rolling all over the floor like A MEATBALL, and sitting upright for longer and longer periods of time. She is also quite the talker. Like seriously, she will talk your ear OFF.

I love this picture of Madee. She loves to walk to walk the dogs. Every morning when she remembers to do it, she starts screaming their names, " ZooooooooooooooooOOOOOOOOSE! ONOOOOOOOO!"

Ono always looks horrified.

Chilling with some V8.
She is so cool.

Eating chips.
Here is the good stuff.

Madee loves to jump. And swing. Totally her favorite.

She helps her little babies jump too.

Precious

She can jump real high.

I think she got like 3 feet of air that time.

Grandmommy!

2009-11-18T21:07:00.000-08:00

Grandmommy came to LA for a conference and we went and snagged her for a day.

We Went out to Laguna Beach for a walk and a playground visit, then picked up Dad and went to Huntington Beach for lunch and the sunset.

I can't tell you how great it was to see her and to see her with the girls. They totally were into her, which was awesome, because lately, they have been quite clingy.

Madee is such a little explorer right now. It was great to follow her around with my camera - dawdle as she dawdled - and see what she was up to.

Sometimes she just sits down in the middle of the sidewalk.

Guess who found a traffic cone?

And a puppy friend!
Goofy little stair stepper.
This pier is the one that my photography Idol, Tara Whitney uses all the time. The light is amazing on this beach.
We had such a great time visiting a new place and seeing Mom. It was such a perfect day.

Charlie has been heading off with the camera more lately.
He snapped these of Madee playing int he buttery light of the Huntington Beach sunset.
She is saying something in this one. She has all these new little confused looking facial expressions that are just killing me, and she is talking up a storm. She understands so much that it is actually great to talk to her and get a response that she really means.

Ida thinks Grandmommy rocks.

Grandmommy gets nervous when Madee flies.

You know it is great light when everybody has red hair.

We love you Grandmommy! We are so glad we got to see you!

22 months

2009-11-10T17:31:00.000-08:00

I can't even believe all the things she can do. Today she was climbing some advanced ladder type stuff and she can swing and slide like crazy.

She also knows an "M" when she sees one and is very much into Finding Nemo right now. In fact, The movie is a little bit scary in parts and she understands the frantic parts are scary - in fact she wakes up at night and I think she is having bad dreams, but she wants to see it all the time and i just think that Ellen Degeneres fish is so cute.

She also likes when I roll down the window so she can handle park employees and other drive thru people - she just loves saying "hi".

The kisses are free and juicy and the high fives are also quite plentiful with this one. She is nothing if not tenacious and also so friendly.

Her motor, social and verbal skills are blowing my mind. Every day she surprises me with a word, recognition or even a whole saying, and she is starting to string words together on her own.

She is a very responsible dog owner and is very good at feeding and walking her dog. Ono isn't thrilled with the status of being Madee's dog, but hey, better her than the rest of us.

We all have to take a turn, Ono.

Check her out - we played markers today and then it turned into "Pretend Seedy Miami Tattoo Parlor".

Kids these days...

The kids are still pretty cute

2009-11-10T05:02:00.003-08:00

Yeah, that little shock of red hair is killing me.

And this one is growing up more and more each day! She is such a good helper - especially when it comes to her sister!

Happy Baby
Being cute on the playground.
A sweet kiss.
And introducing...Mr. Tooth!

I finally got a shot of the first one. It is funny, to us, sometimes we look at her and she is literally all tooth. That tooth is the only thing I see.

It's a cute one!

We went to Makutu's Island - a huge indoor play place for kids in Chandler, and Madee had such a great time. She loved skee ball and the driving video games, and ran and played went down a crazy twirly slide.

Ida had a great time, too. She loves to see kids playing and she was wiggling and reaching for stuff the whole time. She's just growing up so fast!

Madee has a new obsession with Nemo so she was totally into these fish.

And Ida spends a lot of time with this Ritz cracker sleeve I gave her a couple of weeks ago. I just thread it through anything - her pants, the bumbo, any toy - and she just has a good old time crinkling it.

She just has some screaming out in utter pain fits with these teeth coming in. I keep telling her how much she is going to like meat when she gets a couple more!

Did you hear there is a Hurricane Ida? I was named after Hurricane Carmen, and my sister's names were on the Hurricane List the years they were born.

Coincidence? Hmmmm...

Goodness she has a sweet face.

All grown up on the playground...I love how she picks her wedgie!

Precious Pumpkin

2009-11-02T06:56:00.000-08:00

We were on the road for Halloween, so we didn't do any trick or treating, but Ida did wear her costume that day...Thanks Grandmommy! I'm an adorable punkin!

The back says, "Boo to You!"

Precious little thing. And she has a little jack o lantern smile since her second tooth came in. It is on top above her other tooth!

Luckily we dress up in costumes all the time, so Halloween is everyday!

We love you, everybody!

Things are crazy around here

2009-10-25T08:32:00.000-07:00

And I am pretty much worked. I guess the stress has just all accumulated to a point where no more input may be put in, yet so many things still have to get done, and the stress of moving things and packing things and whatnot has the kids and the dogs teetering on a certain edge that keeps things very loud and wild and whiny around here.

I like to remind myself to breathe.

The long slow breaths that calm you blood, your mind, your soul.

Here we are in a less frantic moment.

Eating Froot Loop necklaces...Madee thinks I am an accessory genius!

I am excited for simpler times, a simpler life.

Not that life is so complicated here, but the planning, the waiting, and the transitory stage has been less than simple.

We are about to be on the beach, on the road, on our way for our grand adventure. With little to do but enjoy the ride. (And get Dad to work of course!)

Before and Afters Are Up!

2009-10-22T08:04:00.000-07:00

Oh hey! Come on in!
This is our new house...it's pretty cozy!

But it is the perfect size for us!
We would love to show you around!

We can't wait to get going!
A serious load of before and after pics here!
Daddy did such a good job! Prepare to be impressed!

This Morning's Precious Treasure

2009-10-21T08:17:00.000-07:00

An old powder compact. Madee is rubbing the powder puff all over her face and mine, and a few minutes ago she lost the puff inside her full body footsie zipper pajamas.

It is her precious treasure for the morning, and I won't recover it until she goes down for her nap.

She has a new habit of stashing random items - toys, toothbrushes, golfballs - in her pjs.

She tries to stash rocks in her shirt, but they fall out the bottom, so a quick walk can turn into a LOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOONG one with lots of bending and picking up and stashing and falling through and "uh oh".

It is funny how I used to dread being left alone with the babies for days, and granted, having Bela changes everything, but I actually enjoy our time alone together now. The days are longer, and we miss Daddy, but Charlie has always left me for work travel, even when we first dated and I would dogsit for Zeus and Zoie (months at a time!) at his place.

So I am used to spending time in the house without him - although he has been home so much in the past year that I got spoiled!

I tend to get spooked in a house by myself (I have a ridiculously VIVID imagination!) But everything is different with a house full of kids. It has been overcast and chilly, and we have been doing a lot of snuggling and cozying and reading in front of the fire.

Eden is fully awake and alert now, and she knows stuff is going on in the house and gets mad if it is going on without her. She will just yell if we leave her anywhere like, "DUDES! You KNOW I can't walk! Come get me!"

She will be crawling in less than a month...she already has scooch leg from trying to get from the living room to the kitchen yesterday.

Madee lavishes attention and love and kisses and hugs on her sister ALL DAY LONG.

It is amazing to me, because I have seen Madee grow up, and watched her love grow for family members and friends, and she is such a sweet girl, but she loves Eden best. Better than any of us. I try to tell Eden how special that is, and how everybody in the world is jealous of her, but she doesn't care, she doesn't know anything different.

She just says, " Goo."

Daddy's Girl

2009-10-19T12:30:00.000-07:00

This face. So sweet.

That is a face that looks like me. And my Dad.
I can just totally see it.

Her little Elvis lippy.
Always on the side closest to a nipple. Any nipple.

Kisses.
What a cute baby! Sugar and spice indeed!

Pretty colors, new blogs, and meat hucking

2009-10-18T11:00:00.000-07:00

Tahoe colors are changing!

So I started writing stuff on my new blog, Family Sized Fun, because a girl has to start somewhere, and this journey has begun, even if we haven't left the neighbor's driveway yet. I am not sure how to distinguish what goes here or there or whatever, but so far the new blog has been RV and travel related.

Hmm...

Anyway, check out the new blog and follow us around.

Anyhoo...

Yesterday I took Madee to the park and, well, Eden too, but she was asleep in the truck for the most part enjoying the breezy autumn Tahoe weather, anyway, Madee and I climb this little hill that ends in a retaining wall that surrounds the playground, and Madee isn't in the best mood in the first place. As she big girl steps off of the retaining wall, she tumbles to the ground, and when she looks up at me, I can tell she wants to cry, and she starts looking around to see if anybody saw her fall.

I assure her that no one was looking, and she is probably okay, I saw the whole thing and she looked like she made it a good fall.

She is not so convinced that I know her pain, and she shows me her dirty hands and clothes from falling.

"Dust it off" I say.
And I show her how.

But she still just looks at me, teetering on the edge of crying.

And I'm thinking, "Oh, Dora Band-Aids where are you now? How could I go anywhere without those magic little things?"

I may be 2 in, but I'm still new at this mom thing. It sucks to see her injured, physically, emotionally - whatever - I just want to relate and protect and comfort and encourage, and I guess at the moment I was struggling to verbally connect with her and let her know that things were going to be cool.

So I hucked my meat right off that retaining wall and landed on my butt and shoulder just like she did.

And when she locked eyes with me, I tell you, I gave her this little terrified look and then I looked around, got up and dusted myself off, shrugging my shoulders and saying "Wow! That was a doozy!" and seriously, I could deserve an Academy Award, which is a good thing, because Madee wouldn't appreciate a set up.

And she helped me dust myself off. And I helped pat her down, too. And we hugged and she gave me a kiss and then she stuck her hand out for me to hold it as we went to the playground.

That kid.

Unh.

You have no idea what it is like to walk around with no knees. But I start melting at about 7 in the morning. Melting from her cuteness. And I still have to get around like that. With no knees.

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

Madee with Bela.

Lake Tahoe lately...

Eden in the girls' RV Room.
Before and Afters coming soon!

Hmmm...

2009-10-14T16:02:00.000-07:00

I try hard not to compare the girls, because everybody is unique, but I had to go back and check out when Madee got her first tooth.

Here is a picture from that post.

So apparently, Madee was 1 week shy of her 6 month birthday when we saw that first tooth.

And although there is a good 6-7 weeks difference in their age in the pics, the size and ability is about the same.
So we are thinking maybe Ida was born 2 months old.

Sweet Lips.
Happy HAPPY Baby!
Another one from the Madee files...

Oh goodness I still have to eat her up like 7 times a day!

First Tooth!

2009-10-14T09:40:00.000-07:00

It's Official!
She's going to college!

Okay well maybe I am exaggerating, but seriously, doesn't 4 months seem a little young for choppers?
I figured we still had a month or so of cutting, and last night she grabbed Charlie's finger, chomped down, and he was all, "It's THROUGH!

Just like that.
My baby has teeth.

With the two of them, the incongruent naps, the needing, the tantrums and ill-communication, my days can seem so looooooooooooooooooonnnnnng.

And at the same time I wish it would all slow down...

Stats and such

2009-10-13T07:38:00.000-07:00

It's a cold, windy, rainy morning here in the mountains, and I can tell it is almost Daylight Savings Time because we have been up for 2 hours, and the sun still really isn't up. Eden is asleep in front of the fire and Madee is snuggled with her blanket on the couch watching Mickey Mouse and answering the questions he asks.

My coffee tastes really good this morning.

Eden went to the pediatrician for her 4 month check up yesterday. Charlie took her because I am a basketcase when it comes to shots and she is an especially shrill screamer.

She is 27 3/4 inches long, and 18 lbs 9 oz.

About the size of a 9 month old. And she is such a beautiful baby. Her curves are astonishing.

In case you are wondering, we were out of town when Madee was 4 months old, so her appointment came at 5 months. On that appointment, she was 18 lbs. and 27 1/2 inches.

We make some big beautiful babies.

Also, I totally forgot Madee's 21 month post, but we went to the pumpkin patch on that day, so I have lots of pictures...
The other day was Little Lila's 2nd birthday - and we met in the park for cupcakes and fun.

Here is Lila in her birthday present from us. We got her the crown, not the fuzzy hat, but I like how they go together.

Little Ida can party, too!The kids had lots of fun. I just love to watch Madee playing with other kids. She showed off her sister a lot and was so patient while presents and attention were lavished upon somebody else.

She did try to take off with a Dora toy. Oh, by the way, Dora teaches her stuff. She says "Abre" for "Open". I don't even know if I spelled that right.

And we played Merry-go-round. We spun and spun and then I let her off to try and walk. Bad Mommy. I am lucky she didn't crack her little head!
.Little fairies in the woods...

We Brought Our Own Pumpkins!

2009-10-11T18:35:00.000-07:00

We went to the pumpkin patch in Apple Hill! Madee couldn't believe all the pumpkins~

Is this the one?

Or this one?
Hmmmmm. That looks like a good pick.
There are just so many! I don't know how I'll choose!Ooh! I see one over here!
Mommy and a little punkin.

Oh hey guys!
Gimme kiss!
I was just hanging in this pumpkin patch with Mom and Mad and Uncle Cousin Brody.
Unh.
This one's good!

Or maybe this one.
Yay! Pumpkin Patch!
I think this is the one we came for...
Thanks for all the picture taking, UCB!

Madee l-o-v-e-s you!
A little autumn sweetness.
And a little goofiness, too.
You have never seen me happier. Trust me.

Unless you were here.

A Gracious Blessing

2009-10-08T09:33:00.000-07:00

"What the?"
"Do you ever put that thing down?

Rocking her saucer. Note leg meat. Yummalicious!

Running in place.
Chilling at the playground.

Random photo Charlie took at Brody's Birthday Event. Pretty impressive!

Hey Ya'll
She swings standing up.

Stop scaring Mommy!
Oh this deserves more than a couple of words. Ida can haz cereal now, and Madee can haz spoon to help her...

These are the beautiful parts of my normal days.

Watching cartoons. Must be a sad one.

Not sure where I found this, but I love it and I mean it!

Normal day, let me be aware of the treasure you are. Let me learn from you, love you, bless you before you depart. Let me not pass you by in quest of some rare and perfect tomorrow. Let me hold you while I may, for it may not always be so. One day I shall dig my nails into the earth, or bury my face in the pillow, or stretch myself taut, or raise my hands to the sky and want, more than all the world, your return.

Making Memories. Maybe.

2009-10-06T21:25:00.000-07:00

Madee, Eden and I went to the farmer's market, and as we went out to the car, Madee requested we take the old Toyota Landcruiser.

Precious.
She loves that car.

It took a couple times to start her in the cold.

As we started down the hill from our house, I looked over at Madee, wind blowing through her hair, music in her ears, fresh pine and chimney smoke and old truck smell making its way through her breath. I wondered if she would have memories of things like this yet. Are these memories still only mine to remember? to document and share with her so she remembers through the story, or will she actually recall someday, riding in that old truck, smelling the gas and the oil and the pine trees and the crisp autumn air of the Sierra?

Will she one day experience some random culmination of smells and sights and sounds so that she feels a bare memory, some essence of this moment in time laughing in the front seat of that gassy old truck riding in the clean morning air to eat fresh tomatoes with her Mama and her sister?

I hope so.

But if I am the only one who remembers I am a very lucky one.

Somebody is too cute...

2009-10-06T21:08:00.000-07:00

little bird lips
teething like crazy
laid back

super kissable
saucy
fancy footwork
just darling
even more darling
she likes to bite stuff
sweet smile
too cute with zeus

Of course this has all melted

2009-10-05T15:32:00.000-07:00

It was just enough to remind me how much I don't miss winter.

Even though Madee looks really cute playing in it.

Silly gang of snow troopers.

Again.

Ida's Fall Look
Madee's ready for snow.

Can I just tell you I married a badass? My babysitter's bike was stolen out of our garage - HELLO! OUT OF OUR GARAGE! today and Charlie stalked him, found him, and recovered the bicycle.

Bad Aaaaaaasssssss.
This is what Eden sees. She spends a lot of time fluttering her eyelids in response.

I got the flooring for the living area of the RV today. And I am not sure why I haven't transitioned the blog yet - or exactly how I will handle it. I am excited to share pictures, but I want the full impact...

A Few from Birthday Weekend

2009-10-03T22:07:00.000-07:00

Auntie Teri came to visit for Birthday Weekend. Her birthday is the 26th, so we gfot to have some fun celebrating together.

I got some really great shots of her when we went out for a shoot.

I am posting a few of my faves.

Happy Feet
Happy Lady

We manifested this little karmannghia...it couldn't have been more perfect.

Auntie reading things to babies...

The coolest girl I know. She talks so much now I am just reeling. She knows an A and a B when she sees one, and knows that 2 comes after 1. And she can say Bela.

She is such a fun little companion.

I chased her around the house cutting her hair for 2 days. She ducks her head and goes, "OWOWOWOWOWOW"

It's very Michelle Williams, no?

Charlie's out painting the RV and it is friggin' freezing out there!
brrrrr.....it's snowing!

4 Months Old

2009-10-01T16:29:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe it has been 4 months already. That's crazy! It doesn't even sound right.

Miss Ida is growing up so fast - in fact she can officially eat cereal now. We haven't tried it yet, but it is sitting on the countertop waiting for its moment.

Things have been rough for little Ida as she cuts teeth. She screams and wails and oh goodness there is nothing that will stop her until something in her just gives in.

Sad face.

And she is drooling like crazy.

She's just so pretty, she looks like a baby doll. And she is just absolutely charming and engaging. She rolls over all over the place and army crawls like there's a fire, so I am sure it will be no time before she is running around on the walls surfing the furniture like her sister.

Oh that sounds like fun, doesn't it, Ida?

The littlest one is integrating into the family just fine, in fact, it is already hard to remember what life was like without her.

Like she was just meant to be here all the time.

Compartmentalized

2009-09-30T09:47:00.001-07:00

Charlie has been gone the past couple of days and I have been walking around the house, sweeping through the bedrooms, running to get the phone on the other end, and although I have always said this house is just too small for us, suddenly it feels SO big.

And it is full of stuff.

I can't imagine how I am going to organize this family of four into such a small living space. Everything has to count.
Only the essentials...
Have you seen us packed for a 2 week trip?
Everything is essential!

I plan to recreate these adorable little bookshelves in the girls room.

If anybody has any ideas or advice to share, I am totally open to it!

Happy Birthday Mama!

2009-09-28T17:36:00.000-07:00

I was thinking maybe I could use some perfume or a new bike, but this is cool, too.

I wonder what we'll name her...

For those of you who don't already know, we have taken the plunge for a full-time RV road life with the girls for the next year or so as Charlie travels his territory for 50 Below. This way we don't have to do without him for half the month or more, and we all get to experience the California Coast.

We figure the girls are at the perfect age to do something like this...

A slide out living area, european kitchen, and canopy over the cab.
Charlie and I will sleep up there, and we will be pulling out the furniture and revamping the living space.

We also plan to maximize outdoor living space.

Big changes are in store for this room as we outfit it for the girls. I am excited about the design challenges for this room and how we plan to attack them for maximized storage and child safety.

I can't wait to show you the afters...

Shower on the left, bathroom on the right. And that little door right there shuts off the hallway/bathroom and bedroom if you want, so we won't disturb Madee at night when we stay up later than her.

Oh, the design possibilities - my head is swimming with ideas and measurements and catalogs right now...

First of all, we should be moved in and on the road before the end of the month. Second of all, this blog will be moving to Family Sized Fun, and our travels, encounters and the documentation of mundane and special things we do will be logged there with the purpose of organizing it all into a lovely travel companion/coffee table book/bathroom reader by the time we are done.

At the very least, it is something we can share with you.

Are we crazy? No more than last week.
Are we excited? You have no idea.

Welcome to our version of "taking it up a notch!"

It's Family Sized Fun!

Recent Art and Sauciness

2009-09-28T09:13:00.000-07:00

We have been making more craft projects lately. Madee loves to do new art stuff, so it is fun to wind her up and let her go.

I spent a few days dying pasta pieces for glue and string projects.

The first pasta picture.

The other night Bela came over while we went out for birthday dinner at Scusa. When we came home, Madee was so proud to show me this.

Cute little rocker.

Eden will be moving out of her swing before you know it. As it is, you have to make sure she is bolted in or she may try to escape.

We have a couple of close calls.

Eden's saucy exerciser. She loves to do stuff!

I've got some cute kids...

2009-09-25T07:59:00.000-07:00

All is quiet for a moment in our household. I love these sweet sleepy silent times. Grampa Derv left yesterday and we had such a nice time with him.

It was hard for Madee to say goodbye. She loves her Grampa.

It was hard for me to say goodbye, too. Grampa was very good at getting Eden down for morning naps.

Lucky for me Daddy is good at it too.

Miss Ida is so busy lately. She goes from station to station exercising her legs and practicing sitting and standing in her little baby play areas. She is so giddy and squealy and silly. It is very entertaining to watch her.

She is really teething right now, and the drool production is stunning. I've never seen anything like it.

She has also been sleeping in her crib more, which means Dad moved back in the bed. Just in time for the chilly nights...good timing little Ida!

Madee and I spend time offering her little toys to grasp and chew on. I haven't bought her many things, since we already had so many baby items from Madee, but I did purchase her this wooden teether. Charlie makes fun of it and calls it her "expensive retro hippie trendy teether".

I call it "Portland".

Ida calls it "Yum!"
There are so many times throughout the day that the sister lay together and giggle and coo. I think we did a good thing for them. They just seem so good together.

Zoose.

Pretty Brown Eyed Girl

My favorite thing she does right now? Say "Yaaayyyyy!" when she is happy about something.
Oh. And of course toddler dance party.
She's got all the right moves.

Madee can totally say "Eden." But ask her who this is?

"IIII-DA!"

Ida thinks her sister is hilarious. Madee loves it when Ida laughs and smiles and coos for her.

Goofy Zoose.

The neighbor kids are loud

2009-09-24T09:16:00.000-07:00

And if Mad hears them squealing and playing out front after dinner, she will shove her shoes at you and ask repeatedly to go "out out out out out" " shoes shoes shoes shoes shoes".

When the neighbor girls see her, they melt and break into a chorus of "Oh Maaadeeee! Oh her sooooOOoooo cuuuute!"

Gosh look at her. I think they are right!

We are going to miss these late summer nights. We are already having chilly nights and mornings, and the dark seems to be creeping into our mornings and evenings to give us less light.

But on the good side of things, it is my birthday Sunday! Hello, 35. I am not sure how I feel about you quite yet.

I know, less me, more Madee!

She isn't just growing and doing more stuff. Her little mind is maturing. She has 2 word combos now, like, "Mom, no" and "up, please!" "Hi Zeus!" - in fact every day she saying things with more clarity and intention - it blows my mind.

She has even started talking to other kids she meets. She is totally on her way.

We hired a nice young lady named Bela to come in and help out with the kids for a few hours a week. Madee loves her. Eden loves her. I love her. Even Charlie and Grampa loved her.

And when I came home Madee had mastered riding her rocky unicorn (check back for awesome video). AND THE TV WASN'T EVEN ON. Oh yeah, she's good.

Speaking of, we have cut back dramatically on the TV. Madee was asking for "On, please" "Bob Bob" and "Wow Wow" a little too often, and sometimes in the middle of the night.

So Charlie and I have banded together as husband and wife for a little bud nipping. The first couple days was painful, but we still have a little designated TV time and now we have a lot of more creative type time.

But since Madee missed her "Bob Bob" so much, we got her a little surprise...

Now she can see her buddy all the time, and wouldn't you know it, bath time is easier and more fun too!

Rolling on the Floor

2009-09-21T17:35:00.000-07:00

Everything Happens So Fast

2009-09-19T15:30:00.000-07:00

This post is chock full of info, photos, fun and 2 (count em!2) videos. Put on your tight pants - the future comes at lightning speed!

First, my top 3 favorite photos this round.

Grandpa Tom's shoes.

Breathtaking. But not in the Seinfeld way.

Who loves Grandpa?

This girl!

And this girl!!

We play a lot of dress up lately. I have to get my hands on some old prom dresses, because Madee's stuff just doesn't fit me. Sometimes I wear her tutu on my leg, but it just makes me want my own, and she never lets me wear the belly dancing skirt.

Tutu flyer.

Dad and Madee took a bike ride to the Stream Profile. Madee likes the fishies.

Hi! Fish!

Ida's crib is finally set up and functional - she has already taken a nap or two in it, but still sleeps best shoved into Mommy's back!

Madee thinks it is great too.

But not as great as her own bed!

Madee is almost 35 inches, and our neighbors 4 year old just graduated to a bunk bed with her sister, so fate would have it that Madee's bed would be pink. And plastic. And as much as I wanted something a little more dressed up for her, she LOVES IT.

And she has already bonked her head on it several times, the first of which I thanked God for sending us a plastic bed despite my personal preference.

Ida thinks it is great too!

These are the pictures I love - my girls, just doing their thing!

Flipper!

2009-09-17T16:20:00.000-07:00

Oh goodness! 3 1/2 months and we are already SO IN TROUBLE!

She makes it look so easy! Every time we put her down she flips right over and starts army crawling until she hits the wall.

So she has that going for her!

Go Eden! You Rock!

Just like that

2009-09-17T14:52:00.000-07:00

I am a new Mommy today.

Yoga was great, and not only do I feel better in my own skin, I feel better about everybody else too. I came home energized and ready to plan ahead and be a little more on top of things.

I planned out some activities, read some books, took some notes, and fell into a great sleep.

And I woke up with a spring in my step. ME! SPRING!

Grampa Tom got here first thing this morning, Madee and I went grocery shopping, we have played play-do, crayons, markers, golf ball in the hole, and I dyed pasta pieces for some later projects also. We read books, did puzzles, played outside, ate our lunch - and it is only 3 PM.

And I don't feel like I am dragging or lagging or losing my mind. I feel good today. Really good. Not just tired. GO YOGA!

On another kick-ass note, I started reading the greatest book, The Happiest Toddler on the Block and it is making breakthroughs in communication between me and the tot. I am amazed at how some really simple ideas and a new approach can change a person's life.

Or 2 people's lives. I am on my way to really getting her. And she wholeheartedly appreciates it, it is already quite obvious.

Okay now it is 3:30 and Madee has decided not to take a nap. And Eden jumped on the bandwagon - but I still feel good good good so whatever.

We have dyed pasta to play with anyway.

Pictures later. And boy do I have some good ones.

Yes I listen to Coldplay

2009-09-16T12:31:00.000-07:00

I struggle lately with myself.

I can't seem to get on top of my schedule, ahead of sleep and sickness - I am just always in recovery mode.

Just trying to survive.

And under the weight of all these things I try to do, (laundry, housekeep, playground, art activities, baby bath, dinner) I just can't seem to get to the things that I want to do (yoga, photography, shopping, creating, writing, sipping wine with some Coldplay playing really loud near the hot tub).

Duh. I am a new mom. Twice over. Two under two.

Under two tons.

And did I mention I have more guilt than the sea has fishes?
I am just like that.

So today I am going to Yoga.
I am going to spend an hour or so trying to do something for myself, spend time without the munchkins, and tackle the guilt from a few different angles.

It just seems like the right thing to do.

20 months

2009-09-15T11:51:00.000-07:00

You light my world up like a firecracker, kid. You are literally the coolest person I know. Oh, you have your moments of being not-so-cool, but you are still learning that there are other people on this planet and that they are not necessarily here to please you.

As for all of us, that will be a hard lesson. (Should you choose to learn it)

I can't believe how close you are to being 2.

You blow my mind daily. And I totally mean that in a good way.

I love you, monkey.

Sisters, skills, and being sick

2009-09-14T15:55:00.000-07:00

This weekend was Charlie's birthday, as well as some strange culmination of sleep deprivation and sickness that struck our household. It is awful to be the responsible factor of a sick household. We'll just say the weekend wasn't as pretty as this face.

Ida loves her tummy time, as long as it is in front of a mirror. She really likes the baby in the mirror a lot. That baby cracks her up. It is sweet when Madee joins her for her play time. Before I know it, they will be running around the house playing dress up and hide and seek and all sorts of silly games.

For now, they play "look in the mirror and giggle".

Somebody has a new friend. Ooh sweet baby face.

Here our tiny sitting in the Bumbo for the first time at Dad's birthday dinner. She loves to sit up and join the family for food! Before you know it she can have her own plate.

She has also been playing in the exersaucer. She is just so good at holding her head up and straightening her legs to stand on them that she was really needing some new activities to practice her skills.

Funny to think she was a twinkle in our eye this time last year. I have always called her Charlie's birthday baby. So it is kind of a sweet full circle kind of thing.

Also new...Jimmy Jumperoo. At first she didn't like it, but she got the hang of it. Ha. Madee loves to push her in it like a swing and say "weeeee!" Just like Mama.

Passed out after many new activities. This sleeping face is the sweetest. It is crazy how fast they grow up. She just seems to be growing much faster than Madee did - of course everything happens faster and faster.

I don't even see a shred of baby left to Madee. She is such a cute little girl.
We got out the paints the other day. She hasn't seen them in a while and really loved to use the brushes. She said free association words and I wrote them on the paper she was painting.

She made several pieces of artwork, which will be distributed to refrigerators nation wide as soon as they dry.

Who needs paper? Madee loves to paint herself! Mommy gets to keep that work of art!

She makes it look so easy.

I wonder what she will be when she grows up?

DUDE!

2009-09-12T14:01:00.000-07:00

Madee has really started talking now, repeating so many things, but I am most impressed that she's understanding context. There are many uses for the term "dude" and she gets it right all the time.

She also really gets the "yes/no" variety of questioning.

She is pretty much talking to me all the time, and if I pay attention, she makes sense. Juice, milk, Zeus, Ono, shoes, Ida - she has enough words to make decent communication within many aspects of her day. Her little voice is so cute.

SO cute.

She also knows to interject the "yay!" whenever or wherever fun may be being had.

Sprinkler! Yay!
I love her. She is such a dynamic and stubborn and amazing little creature. She is so sun shiney and friendly and goofy. She likes to pull her own wagon and she grunts when she is going uphill with it.

She wants to dissect everything.
She does things on purpose. With purpose. And she has feelings. She is becoming more complex and more beautiful and more full of energy and wit every day.

Ida is such a little snuggy bear. She holds back on to you when you hold her.
She loves kisses. And kisses are hilarious and she just closes her eyes and laughs and coos if you kiss her kiss her kiss her all over her face.

Oh she does have a good time. I think it has been great for Madee that Ida responds to her with such a great sense of humor. They can roll on the floor and laugh and giggle and it makes me excited to see them grow together.

Madee's always trying to pick her up and take her with her to another room.

Silly.

They are so funny together. Like kittens.

This weekend is Daddy's birthday, so we are gonna eat some wings on the couch and watch some football! Happy weekend Dude! GO PACK!

Newsletter #4

2009-09-09T07:26:00.000-07:00

Oh my darling ladies. What a force you are! You have banded together and are certainly trying to kill me! Let this be a lesson for you...your Mama is a ninja and you will never best me!

Although beautiful and charming for days, your Achilles' Heel is your lack of stamina, and you fall into sweet sweet delicious slumber after anywhere between 90 and 180 minutes have passed. I know your weaknesses, my darlings, and until you dare to learn mine I will be in charge here.

(All pictures of Madee taken by Charlie!)

Madee, at 20 months you are a burst of nuclear energy. I am excited that you have learned the word "yes" because I was getting tired of you telling me "no" to everything. Now, even when your TV characters ask you questions, you are happy to try and supply the correct answers.

Other words you have been saying:
bug
me
mine
nose
help
wow
on
up
chicken
bye
home
woah!
elmo
poop
milk
YAY!
bottle
shoes
juice
cheese
appleappleapple
please
thank you
duuuuuuuude

bob bob, bob bob, bob bob, - what can I say? You love Sponge Bob.

You also love garage sales. Last week it was just us girls and you made your first cash transaction. You know just what to do, and mill around a person's piled up stuff until you find something that tickles your fancy.

You are very good at puzzles. Not only can you pull out whatever piece I request, you know where it goes. You are all full of skills. I can spend hours sending you on missions. You are a better retriever than Zeus.

The other day I spilled water on the floor and as I turned to get a paper towel, you whipped a towel onto the floor and wiped it up. I WAS SO PROUD. Continue such behavior and you might just be my favorite kid.

You have been progressing all by your own accord in the potty department. The other day you peed on the floor after your bath, and when I said something about it, you went into the bathroom, pulled off some toilet paper, wiped your butt and threw it on the floor. (Just like Dad!) After that, we have been traveling to the bathroom after every dirty diaper and flushing the contents. You get very excited about it and say "bye bye" to the poop. You also say "Uh oh. Poop." so I know when to change you. Sometimes you say it but there is no poop. It is still in it's beginning stages.

You will actually wear things like hats and sunglasses for the novelty if someone says it's "pretty".

You practice talking all the time. You make up fabulous words and I just can't wait to know what you are saying. Seriously. It will be so nice for one of you to be able to talk to me. I am often held hostage in our own home or car by you, and it would be nice to at least have someone to talk to.

You are making leaps in the "please" department. You will walk right up to one of us with whatever you want and a "please?" You will also say"cheese" when I take your picture. The other day you were screaming "MINE MINE! MINE!" and I said "What do we say?" and you lowered your voice and said all sweet, "miiiine?"

Tone of voice is everything.

You love sparkly and fancy and you want my make up. You are naturally drawn to anything remotely dangerous, and I can't take an eye off of you for a minute or you may BLOW UP THE WORLD.

Everybody LOVES your hair. Seriously, it is too cute, and Mommy wishes she could pull it off. (Not pull it off your head, pull it off, wearing that hairstyle!) You will look back on your baby pictures and know you had great hair. I hope to always guide you in ways that help you to keep your great hair status. Your Great Auntie Teri pulled out a picture of your Dad, and it looks like someone has had that haircut before.

Of course Dad's is a little thicker, but he is already 3 in that picture. Can you see the resemblance? You are just a prettier version of your pretty little Daddy.

Oh that is funny, isn't it, Eden?

Speaking of funny, you love funny. You crack up all the time in hysterical baby laughter. You can also get pretty worked up and cry louder than any other baby. Ever. You always want to be held. I guess no one informed you of the fact that you are a "subsequent child" and can't have all that attention.

Fortunately for you, you are very charming and Mommy can still type tomes with just one hand. One hand for baby, one hand for the world. Only you are a gigantic baby and often require two. Big and beautiful - and I don't mean fat, but you are buttering up nicely. You should be nice and juicy by Thanksgiving!

Girl, you are hooked up to me like an RV at a KOA. And you are ready to walk right into college. I have a feeling that you are smarter than all of the rest of us, and you spend your tummy time army crawling. You already flip over and you are constantly wiggling and swimming in place.

It doesn't matter how big of a bed, you will scooch right up to me until I am hanging off - your scooching skills are amazing - didn't you get the memo? YOU ARE JUST A LITTLE BABY! You are very into your hands and like to watch your fingers curl and grab. You also like to grab my hair, Dad's chest hair, anything you can get your hands on.

Did I mention you are incredibly cute? It is pretty much ridiculous and I feel sorry for all the other mommies because their babies couldn't possibly be as cute as you. Once anyone makes eye contact with you and gets a smile, they are butter in your warm little move-ity hands.

You are spending more time grabbing and cooing and talking and giggling and you and your sister are tight. She rolls all over you and you just laugh. You also love her friends.

Interestingly enough, we chose the name "Eden" because we really liked the nickname "Edie", but the nickname just hasn't worked for you. Madee insists your name is "Ida", and we call you that all the time. Being it was my GrandMama's name, I LOVE IT. Sometimes I regret not just naming you "Ida" outright, but I think you will actually be happier in the long run with the legal name "Eden".

But your family will call you Ida. There is a delight in your eyes that will answer to no other name.

Happy Labor Day!

2009-09-07T07:52:00.000-07:00

One of the great things about hanging out in Oceanside with Auntie Teri is being so close to the beach. We went for a bit the other night when we first got here, and then again during the day on Friday.

Can you believe what a big girl Eden looks in this picture?

Little Godzilla storms Tokyo

Who loves the beach at night? This girl.

Oh and this guy...

Silly little runner.

Silly Mama.
She got right in and splashed in the waves - maybe she was drunk from new things and staying up late, but she was all in that surf.
Not so much the next day. She let Dad go in by himself and took a little longer to warm up to the water. She has already learned that just because Dad does it, doesn't mean she wants to do it.

But if Mama is game, it is probably okay to try.

Beach girls.
Love her.
I love how Madee and Daddy are like, mirror images. Unknowingly. Adorable.

Eden gets her toes wet too!

Yay! Beach! (Madee can say both those words!)

When she hears applause or sees something fun, she says "Yaaaaayyyyyyy!"

San Diego Zoo

2009-09-06T11:22:00.000-07:00

Before we even came down here, we had planned to go to the San Diego Zoo.

Things we learned:

Go later in the day. The animals are actually more likely to come out and maybe you can hit feeding time.

Toddlers are horrified of the zoo.
She knows those things aren't cartoons, and is smart enough to know that they could get her. She isn't old enough to realize that that thick glass should keep them away.

Or maybe it is the should of it all. I mean, I've heard stories. I can't exactly tell her those animals can't get loose and get her.

Anyway, she didn't enjoy it as much as we thought she would. See Eden in above photo?She has taken to trying to pull off her clothes. She will bunch them up and pull and tug all day long. It is pretty much her new thing.

Anyway, back to the zoo.

We started her out in the stroller, walking her right up to animals along with the dozens of other strollers riding alongside us.

She would roll on up, figure out what we were all looking at, and then scream in horror. I guess I don't blame her - this came walking up only like a foot away. (4 of those inches were animal proof glass - not like you can explain that part.)

Here is the blessed Ergo I am always talking about. Ida still hasn't gotten used to it - she likes for you to work at holding her. But Madee will stay in for a while - she digs a back ride!
It even fits Dad! Sweet sweet awesome kidpack! Thanks AGAIN Brody!

Hippo.
Feeling a little more secure snugged up to Dad. Of course, she still freaked when face to face with animals. Like Dad can save her!

Despite the "ssshhh" signs in the panda area, Madee screamed wildly. I mean they have to be used to that, right? There was a baby panda there that was 1 month old. You can view him here. His Daddy, Gou Gou or something, is the only naturally breeding male in the USA. He's like, the only panda in the country with game.

Here is one of his babies. I think she was around Madee's age.

Eden at the zoo.

Don't worry baby, Mama won't let them get you!

We saved some for later and got out before the girls went crazy. I will post some fun beach pics when I get another chance. We are enjoying our time on SoCal, the weather is great and the ocean is even better.

Charlie says he'll even trade his snowboard for a surf board for a while...

Things Your Mama Says, #4

2009-09-03T12:31:00.000-07:00

#4 Don't give people the finger in traffic.

It is possible that they are having a very bad day or perhaps are lost because they aren't local. You have no idea what is going on in that other car, and shouldn't be considered a rude addition to anyone's day.

You are too pretty to be going around adding ruin to strangers' days.

3 months!

2009-09-03T11:04:00.000-07:00

She can roll over, will surprise you with her leg strength, she giggles and coos, and she experiences a wide range of extreme emotions. Don't worry. She will let you know if she isn't the least bit happy!

Eden has been playing with her hanging toy station for longer and longer each day and talks to her little hanging toys - squeals of delight and coos abound.

Those eyes are still blue-ish grey and she is so long that she is wearing some 9 month onesies right now. But she is mostly still in 6 month clothes.

She loves when her sister plays with and smothers her. Seriously, she cracks up when Madee rolls all over her. So for the most part, they are still great friends. And, as I am finding out, they are already learning to work together to overthrow any and all authority.

Look out world!

Little Coos and Giggles for your viewing pleasure. She is such a pretty baby. I think I have seen that face before!

Craziest Chicken in town.

2009-09-03T08:02:00.001-07:00

This last week has been a nightmare for me. Charlie was on a trip in Vancouver for a few days, and anyone I know that I can leave the girls with was out of town.

I got little to no sleep, Eden has begun a habit of screaming her head off like a 5 alarm fire that can't be put out, and Madee is constantly asking me for a spanking. Begging for it.

So I have that going for me - I vehemently do not want to spank, and this child is so defiant that it is only a smack to the diaper that can even get her attention. And once you have her attention? She will kick your butt. I can't even believe it but she thinks she can take me and just goes for it - all teeth and claws and fists...

Unless I am out of reach. And then she headbutts the floor. Repeatedly.
Like she knows hurting herself hurts me more.

It is emotionally traumatic, physically exhausting, and it is difficult to for me to wrap my head around. It is also very common tired toddler behavior, so I try not to blame myself, even though I have long had the habit of blaming myself for everything.

That is a much longer post. A much longer, anonymous post.

But this is a different post.

My time alone with them was all out war. There were battles I won, and battles I lost, and in the end every time I thought I would jump on my own sword, I would turn around and they would be asleep.

Regroup. Recover. Restrategize.

Go through the cycle again.

Charlie got home, we dropped off the dogs, packed the truck and headed to LA for his job.

Monday - I hate LA. No wonder it is burning, I am thinking, with all these snotty people in their fancy cars that they probably can't afford, passing me on the right. Your fancy car is going to be in the shop, buddy!
Honking at me when I don't run the red light.
Flipping me the bird fromt he street and mouthing "F____ You" to me for no apparent reason.

Can't you tell I'm not from around here?

People in LA are so angry and aggressive and most likely because they aren't eating enough - everybody is so skinny and what is this film that is totally collecting on my skin?

Smog.

And 2 crying babies - well, one wailing like a wild animal and the other just screaming and thrashing - I am pretty sure they hate me - they definitely hate sitting in traffic in the humid smoggy 96 degree weather.

I had to pack up, load the car and check out by myself. Well not by myself, I had 2 kids.

Did I mention I hate LA?

So we are in the car and still a few hours before Dad will be done with work and ready for pick up.

A few hours. 96 degree weather. Smog. Fire. Ugh.

Traffic traffic traffic, crazy people passing me on the right, on the left - I had no idea that traffic like this could still move at 65 mph.

Brown sign - follow it - beaches - left.

I hate LA I hate LA I Hate LA

(tunnel)
(hills)
(tunnel)
(road curves)
(tunnel)
(more curves)

Aaaaaahhhhh...

Malibu.

I drive the coast, find a park, turn around - the enemy is sleeping. ( I don't actually think they are my enemy but certainly a worthy opponent!)

Both of them.
Passed out.
But we are at a park!
Let them sleep.
But we can...
LET THEM SLEEP!

It is like being backed into a corner and realizing that you actually still have one bullet. How will you spend that last round, General? Are you going to shoot yourself in the foot?

Nope. Breathe.
1..2..3...4...5...6...7..8....9.......10.

So I sat in a park parking lot and put on my makeup.

Mmmm. 76 degrees. Ocean Air. Mascara. Sleeping babies.
I love Malibu.
Pass an RV park.
I need an RV so I can stay here for a while.

Tuesday. No sleep. Same story with a twist. Out to Thousand Oaks, pick up forgotten cord - 45 minutes.

Try to get back downtown to check out alone again with 2 kids?

3 HOURS~ (Did I mention passing me on the right?) Only now I am one of them. Get out of my lane - you are moving too slow in deadlock traffic. I will pass you on the right...

Back to the hotel
(crying baby)
pack the stuff
(screaming toddler)
call for the bellman
(baby is just wailing now)

Packed up. In the car. Headed to Santa Monica. I am so proud of my new navigation skills. I own LA. I hate LA I hate LA - Why is that guy flipping me off?

Doesn't he know I O.W.N. LA!

I hate LA. Hot. Smoggy.

So many interstates.
What's that?
A case has fallen off a truck. Cars have run right over the case.
Toilet paper everywhere...
It still can't wipe away all this smog grime.

Santa Monica. I see the pier. Precious.

Pay for parking, get the girls in the stroller, head down the beach...scream scream wail!
Sit in the shade.

Regroup, Refocus, Recover.

Smile for the camera.

Other mommies gather in the shade, 4 strollers, babies are crying, not my baby, other babies.
Then mine lets it go.

All the other mommies shudder and whip around.

Yes lady, you thought you had it bad.
MY BABY IS LOUDER THAN YOURS.

And still I don't win.

5 minutes after parking, packing it up and heading back...here is the only other picture I took of the pier.

Thank god I love my truck.
I spend a lot of time in there.

Baby crying baby crying, toddler hungry, we swing through the drive thru at El Pollo Loco.
Hand toddler quesadilla.
I'll show you Loco.
Crawl in back seat.
Nurse Baby.
I'm the Loco-est Pollo on this block.
Eat Quesadilla.
Watch people at the laundromat in front of me.
Wonder if I am even in a good neighborhood for this sort of thing.
Maybe I am not the Loco-est Chicken on this particular block...

Change diaper. Struggle with toddler.
Did I mention if given the chance she will headbutt the floor just to spite me?
So I have that going for me.
Baby crying.
Toddler crying.
DVD on.
Truck in gear.
Breathe.
1...2...3...4....5....6....7...8....9.....10!
Spend the next 15 minutes trying to find the freeway.

Spend the rest of my life trying to find my mind.

Wipe smog.
I need to brush my teeth.
I hate LA I hate LA I hate LA

I could totally live here.

Loco-est Pollo on the block.

2009-09-03T08:02:00.000-07:00

The Juice Post

2009-08-28T09:42:00.000-07:00

Many of you may already know, we have been drinking Mona Vie for a few months now. I haven't really said anything about it, and Charlie won't shut up about it, and now, here I am telling you what I think.

First of all, I think that the business structure is pretty well laid out, and although I don't want to put any emphasis on that, I know the mere fact that it is an MLM is the first thing that people see about it, and I don't know about you, but as a child of the 80's, that is a turn off for me up front.

But after really drinking this stuff and seeing the benefits of it, I guess I understand why they structured it that way. Anyway, it isn't even important, but I thought I should mention that if the business structure is a turn off for you, maybe it is worth looking past.

The Juice.

I am not a scientist, but there have been many scientists that have dissected this juice and everything about it is just good good good for you. Not only does it provide key nutrients, fight free radicals (like Mohammad Ali!), it delivers 13 servings of fruits and vegetables in just 4 oz a day, it is turning heads of scientists and the FDA.

It isn't just the Acai berry. It is the way they make Mona Vie.

I will encourage you to look into it for yourself. Google, You Tube, you name it, there is a lot of information out there, and you are probably going to hear about it from somewhere.

I know what I have seen it do for others, minds clearer and more peaceful, bodies with greater range of motion, mothers with better sleep patterns and also better moods, and it just seems to be something that is good for anybody. It lowers cholesterol, loosens stiff joints, blah blah blah. I haven't heard one bad thing about it from anyone I know who is actually taking it regularly.

My point is, everybody should be drinking this juice. I know it is a little pricey, but a good life comes at a cost, and I really think this juice is worth every penny. (Plus, with the way they set up the business, you can spend less on the juice if you like it so much you think others should drink it, too.) But you have to try it for yourself first.

I have been drinking it since July 1st, and I feel better when I do. I have more energy, more patience, and a more positive outlook. And Charlie can touch his toes now, and squat all the way down and back up. Repeatedly. Without creaking or adjusting or hurting.

I just would feel bad if I didn't share with you what was going on over here, because it is an easy improvement in my life, and it wouldn't be fair to keep it to myself.

So there you have it.

Get your hands on some Juice.

Too Cute

2009-08-27T17:51:00.000-07:00

Despite our little power struggles, I strive to create a fun, almost whimsical existence for the girls. You are only young once, and I really want them to have something almost fantastical to look back on.

It is good for all of us.
Magical Fairy Princess. Wait until she finds out the girls can run countries.

At their particular age difference right now, they don't interact much, but Madee is constantly aware of her presence, insists her name is "Ida", and always has kisses and hugs for her sister.

I can't wait until they can be friends. They hold hands all the time, and if I plop Eden in front of Madee they will smile and play.

It is terribly sweet.
Happy Little Girl
Eden's room is (finally) set up. We will be putting up the crib in our room while she is still nursing, but she has her own little sanctuary now.
Of course she always wants someone with her. I guess a lot of it has to do with her birth order. She was brought into a world full of life and love and wildness, and you can tell. She needs to be with one of us always.

Usually me.

The other day Charlie asked me, "Did you ever think anything could love you so much?" All I ever wanted was to be loved super hard and needed.

Now I want a little alone time, too!

Granddaddy brought this back from China. I am not sure if it will still fit for Halloween but it is so precious!
I cannot resist her charms.

She has a way of instantly changing the subject to cuteness when she is in trouble. And I know who is really in trouble.

Me.