Mays Family Blog

I'm back...

2011-10-08T02:25:00.000-07:00

What a crazy whirl wind of events we have had the past few months. I have so much to say and so much to share, but it's late, almost couldn't remember my password to get back on here. But I promise I will post more later this weekend.

Has it been that long?

2010-04-29T19:00:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I know I've been neglecting this blog BIG TIME! But I had no idea that the last time I made a post was LAST SEPTEMBER!!! I guess you could say life has been hectic, busy, full of crazyness! And we couldn't be HAPPIER!! I'm still working full time, Chris is still a stay at home daddy (for now, he's got a few things in the works!). Maddie will be starting Kindergarten this September (freaking out!!), Chad is still in his terrible twos TIMES TWO!!! LOL!!! Chris and I have been going out on lots of dates lately (since December), refinding ourselves, having FUN TOGETHER AGAIN! Not like we didn't have fun before, but when you've got two kids life can get a bit stressful at times, and you tend to lose yourselves in everything, like work, cleaning up after kids ALL THE TIME, making breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, more cleaning, working full time, laundry, dance class, paying bills, stressing over silly things, well that can sometimes come in between a couple. So I guess we decided we needed more time TOGETHER, more often, and it's been AWESOME!!! Maddie is FINALLY sleeping in her bed after 4 1/2 years! Can't believe how great it is to be able to move and stretch and be comfortable, not to mention be able to snuggle up to my man (best part!). I'll try and upload some recent pictures soon. Sounds like a war is about to break loose in the living room so gotta run!

There's always an end to something!

2009-09-13T22:48:00.000-07:00

Today is the end of my week's vacation. I had 9 days of NO WORK, and it was so great to be able to not have to set my alarm clock every night. I looked forward to Chad crawling into bed with me in the mornings, and of course Maddie was already IN bed with us. I will miss my late night evenings with my hubby playing scrabble and watching movies. All things come to an end. Now I will just need to plan another vacation, maybe for Christmas time! Next summer I would like to take 2 or 3 weeks, that would be ideal!

So, my week started off with having to go up to Lake Gregory so Chris could lay some steps at this guys cabin. The whole fam (including Roxy) drove out there, in hopes we could have some fun while Chris when Chris finished the job. He anticipated that it would only take 5-8 hours. On the drive up there, Maddie got sick. And she waited right until we reached the small town on top of the mountain. Man was it gross, she got sick everywhere, poor little thing. But, we cleaned her all up and finally made it to the cabin. I have to say, it wasn't what we expected. Chris's friend said there was water slides, a beach we could go to and they had lots of food for the kids. Well, when we got there, the water slides had no water, the beach was nowhere near their cabin, and they had no "good food!" What I mean by no good food is... their milk was in a mayonaise jar, they served us left over pot roast, and there was no juice for Chad. So, ok.. I guess I should have been prepared and brought what we needed, however they said they had everything so I didn't bother packing food/drinks. Maddie was devestated when she found out there was no CABLE, no Sponge Bob, no ICarly, NO JONAS? I was bummed that I had no reception on my phone. NO TEXTING, NO FACEBOOK? The worst thing is Chris worked the whole 2 days we were out there, so we spent all day in the cabin. We did walk to the lake the 2nd day we were out there, and there were so many bugs, bee's and DIRT! I think Roxy had the most fun, she had a friend to play wiith the whole time!

This dog did nothing but beg the whole time. I don't know how many times I had to replace their cheese and crackers!

Ok, so I'm not much of the outdoorsy kinda girl. I hate the mountains. Why I thought this would be fun, who knows. But we went, realized that we could survive without our favorite things, and I think Chris got a kick out of me not being able to text or facebook! LOL.

The rest of my time off we spent at the pool, disneyland and the beach! Lot's of walks, going to the park and trips to the icecream store.
Here are a few pic's of our day today at Dog Beach in HB!

Now, back to the grind tomorrow. And back to the gym. Not only did I take a vacation off from work, I also took a vacation off from the gym. Can't wait to get back to working out. Round 2 of the Biggest Loser at my work has started. I have until Nov. 20th to shed even MORE weight! Let's see if I can get to my goal weight this time. IT'S ON!!!

Update & Summer Dayz

2009-07-24T22:36:00.001-07:00

Ok, I know, I lag............ BIG TIME ! Havn't posted anything in about a month, but it's been a crazy hectic month for the Mays family! Well, actually a crazy FEW months! My brother moved, my mom moved, then we moved (in that order). So you can imagine, all this moving has taken a toll on all of us! It was a good move for my brother and Lisa, they moved into a nice 2 bedroom in Ladera Ranch, and are expecting their first baby "together" September 12th. This will be Derek's 2nd child, Jacob being his first. Love my little Jacob (ok, not so little anymore, he will be a teenager next year, where has the time gone?) Then, my mom moved, which was hard on everyone. We had to say goodbye to my grandparents house which meant a lot to all of us. My mom moved into an apt. in Irvine, by the Tustin Marketplace. In the middle of all that, Chris and I were home shopping. We were hopeful we could find a place for under $300,000.00 - hopeful with the $8,000 tax credit we would receive for a down payment, and hopeful to find a 3 bedroom townhome in Costa Mesa. No such luck. Our lease was up end of July, so we were able to transfer into a 3 bedroom townhome before our lease expired. We absolutely love it, and the kids love it too. They have a bigger bedroom - which they are still sharing. We now have three bedrooms, but the 3rd bedroom is downstairs, which we have made our office/playroom! And it's so nice having 2 whole bathrooms! Then, after we moved in, me and the kids came down with a crazy virus. Fever, sore throat, cough, ugh! We are finally better and ready to get on with summer. That being said, enjoy the pic's!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CHAD!

2009-06-30T23:24:00.001-07:00

My little boy,
Growing so fast! Already 2, where did the time go? You are such a little daredevil anymore! Always wanting to attempt anything and everything. Your love for skateboards is endless. You passion for cars is enormous, and your love for music is fascinating! You amaze me everyday Chad. You put a smile on everyones face, and your giggle is infectious! You always want everyone to be in the same room as you. You hate it when mommy goes to work in the mornings, that is why mommy tries to leave before you wake. It breaks my heart leaving every morning, I would love to give you big hugs and kisses, but it would hurt you too much when I leave. You even cry when daddy takes the trash out, and you cry "back, back" as in "come back". Your love for Maddie is so cute. When she leaves the room you will throw your hands in the air and say "airs Addison?" Your just too darn cute, I can't stand it! On the other hand, your tempers are hell! You get so angry you will throw stuff, hit stuff, you will even smack yourself in the face. You throw yourself on the floor, kick and scream like no ones business! Scares me because I'm afriad your going to hurt yourself or someone else in the process. Hopefully this is something you will grow out of baby boy. I hope you have a wonderful year pumpkin. Mommy loves you lots! Can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. xoxo

Big Boy Bed!

2009-06-02T22:43:00.000-07:00

Here's some cute pic's of Chad in his big boy bed. He just loves loves loves his new bed, and to my surprise goes to bed with no problem. Maddie was really excited to take the bunk beds apart and have them side by side.

Skater Boy!

2009-06-02T22:35:00.000-07:00

The other day I came home to an incredibly cute little skater boy! Check out that form. Could we have a future Tony Hawk on our hands?

And then Maddie had to show her cute stance! Love it!

Happy Birthday Princess!

2009-05-12T23:09:00.000-07:00

My Dearest Madison,

Today you are 4!!! I can't believe it! You have grown up too fast. Way too fast!

Just 4 short years ago today, at this time, I was laying in the hospital, in recovery, waiting to hold my baby girl! You were born at 10:52 p.m. on Thursday, May 12th. I remember Daddy wanted to hold off until midnight so you could be a Friday the 13th baby! I said NO WAY, I'm not waiting any longer, let's do this! LOL.

I remember Daddy's words when they pulled you out, his very first words when he layed eyes on you were "she's beautiful" and "look at those legs!" You were so tiny but your legs were so long.

Four years later, you are more beautiful then ever. Your smile lights up a room and can make any kind of sadness turn into happyness. Those cute dimples of yours are to die for. And those curls of yours are too precious.

I hope you have had a happy birthday. This morning when you woke up, I told you Happy Birthday.... you are 4 years old today! And you looked at me with a big smile and said "THANKS MOM!" What happened to you calling me mommy or momma... now it's just MOM? You are getting so grown up! Today you spent your 4th birthday at Disneyland, just the three of us. We wanted your day to be special, and all about you... and we thought Chad would have more fun with Grandma, being spoiled and having one on one time with her. We were able to go on all the rides, rides you had never even been on before because you were either to short or too scared. You even went on Thunder Mountain and Splash Mountain! Your favorite by far though was Soaring Over California. It's funny how every ride you got off of you said was your favorite :) You made us proud today.

We love you so much baby girl, and are so proud of you.

xoxo ~Mommy & Daddy (or should I say Mom & Dad :)

M.I.A. in the blogging world!

2009-05-02T22:14:00.000-07:00

Sorry I havn't posted anything lately. I've been kinda bummed out because my laptop took a crap. I'm not sure if I've lost everything I had on my computer or not. Chris was using it the other day and it froze up and he turned it off w/out properly closing down and when he went to turn it back on it went to a weird black screen asking us if we wanted to log in in safe mode. We've tried everything. Looks like something happened to windows when he turned it off. Thang god I saved most of my pictures to our external hard drive last month. The only ones I could lose are the pictures from easter, which I'm so bummed about. As soon as we get some extra money and time we will have to get it looked at. In the meantime, we are using Chris's computer, which is sooooooo much nicer then mine because he used it strictly for his music and recording.

So, other then that, not too much going on. Our lease is up August first, so we are going to try and find a bigger place, hoping rent comes down. We are in desperate need of a place w/ a washer and dryer. I think once I have that I will be happy! Would love a yard for the kids to play in, somewhere we could put either a little play house or sand box. We are ready for a change so I'm excited to start looking.

I will try and post some pic's soon.

Easter Egg Coloring

2009-04-16T00:12:00.001-07:00

Here's some pic's of our Easter Egg Coloring fun!

Here I am trying to assist Chad in NOT breaking all the eggs!

Maddie writing on her egg and Jacob deciding what to do next!

Chad getting frusterated....what else is new?

Maddie very excited to FINALLY color EASTER EGGS!

Jacob writing his name

Chad wondering if the green water will taste good...??

Mom... give me an egg already!

Jacob wondering why he can't pour the vinegar?

Checking out all the pretty colors!

Chad holding an egg, and I'm still worried he's going to drop it or throw it like it's a ball, LOL!

Time for STICKERS!

Jacob, Madison and Chad had lots of fun coloring eggs! More pic's to come later of Easter Day.

Easter Bunny

2009-04-02T23:45:00.000-07:00

Tonight we took the kids to the mall to see the Easter Bunny. I wasn't sure how Chad would react, if he would cry or be excited. We got there, and we went and saw the little animated bunny who talks to you. Chad wasn't too sure of the bunny at first, but then saw Maddie was laughing at it and he thought it was pretty funny too. Chris put Maddie on one side and I put Chad on the other, we got about 2 pictures until Chad started to cry. I'm not sure if he was afraid of the bunny or if he was a little intimidated with everyone calling his name and trying to get him to smile. Maddie was so concerned about her little brother, it looked like she was going to cry too, but she patted Chad on the back and said "It's ok Chaddy-boy, it's just the easter bunny!" We finished up the night with a ride on the Merry-Go-Round, that brought a smile to his face.

My little musician

2009-03-28T16:38:00.000-07:00

I would love to share this cute video of Chad and Maddie at the swap meet. We went to the OC Gun show today, and it was so packed that me and Lisa decided to walk over to the swap meet with the kids while Chris and Derek looked at the guns and stuff. We ran into this guy playing some violin type instrument, and Chad just loved it. Every time he see's someone playing the guitar he immediately starts playing air guitar (this he learned from his daddy!). Everyone fell in love with Chad, and thought Maddie was quite the little dancer. This is just a quick video, we were there watching this guy for at least an hour, while Chad and Maddie stole the show by how darn cute they were being :)

St. Patrick's Day

2009-03-23T22:54:00.000-07:00

Here's a few pic's of St. Patties day evening. Spent a mellow evening at my mom's house. Ate pizza and watched the kids danced around the living room. 5 years ago I would have been dancing around some club drinking green beer. Oh how my life has changed. LOL!

Birthdays, right around the corner!

2009-03-15T19:35:00.000-07:00

Chad is in LOVE with this movie! Looks like this will be the theme for his 2nd birthday party.

I can't believe he will be 2 in just 3 1/2 months! Tonight Maddie said she wants a My Little Pony party.
I'm sure it will be different tomorrow. She's already said she wants a Tinkerbell Party and a Princess party. Hopefully this little girl will make up her mind soon because her birthday is on May 12th!! I wish their birthdays weren't so close together, so much to plan for.

Good friends, good times!

2009-02-21T18:42:00.000-08:00

Today we spent the day with some old friends who we don't see often, but when we do, we always have a great time. Their little girl is just a few months younger then Maddie, and they had such a fun time together. We went to Chili's for lunch, then too their house to let the kids play, then we walked to the park. The kids ran around and played on the swing, slide and of course played in the sand while us grown-ups talked and laughed. The kids were so worn out that they fell asleep before we hit the freeway. Too much fun! Here are some pic's of our day!

The girls at Chili's

The park

Happy Birthday Best Friend!

2009-02-19T22:23:00.000-08:00

Today is Chris's birthday, the big 36!! It's hard to believe we've been together since I was 18 and he was 21! How fast time flies. It's scary to think how old we are actually getting :( Before you know it we will be approaching 40! That number is frightening! But at least we have one another to grow old with. I don't know what I would do without him. He's always there for me. And I'm so thankful I have him in my life, and that we have made such a beautiful family.

Tonight I asked him where he would like to go for his birthday dinner and he said Carls Jr! How funny is that! But that's Chris. Such a simple guy. So easy to please. So we went to Carls Jr., just the 4 of us. And came home and had cake and that was it.

HOORAY FOR APPLES!

2009-02-18T18:26:00.000-08:00

Tonight I was cutting up an apple for Chad, he just eats em up! And Maddie said "I want an apple momma!" I was like... huh? You want an apple? Since when do you like apples? I cut her up an apple and she ate the whole thing! I was shocked. Then after she ate it she asked for more! I'm now out of apples, LOL. Guess I will be making a trip to the store tonight for more apples. I'm telling you, this girl hardly eats! And when she does eat, it's nothing good for her. She lives on cheese and jelly bread. So sad. At least she will take her Hannah Montana vitamins, but seriously, when I saw her eat a whole apple I just wanted to cry tears of happiness. Now, if I could only get her to eat some vege's I will be estatic!

Craft time with daddy!

2009-02-17T23:29:00.001-08:00

PAPER BAG MONSTERS!

Boat ride!

2009-02-17T22:48:00.000-08:00

This post is a little late, but I'm finally uploading some pictures. Last month we went on a little boat ride around the bay. Kinda a funny story. Wasn't quite funny at the time, it was more like a little tense.

While we were leaving the dock, starting our boat ride, Chris said that the kids had to put on their life jackets? I was like... huh? Life jackets? The boat isn't going to sink, and if it does start to sink we can put the life jackets on in a jiffy. But noooooooo........ Chris insisted on the life jackets, and said if the kids are under a certain age it's a law they have t wear them. So, on went the life jackets. Chad was so irritated by the big life jacket, and Maddie was over it before it even went on. Chris proceeded to say not to go too far out in the bay because the kids will probably not last long. I was like, no no no, the kids will be fine, why wouldn't they love this beautiful day on the bay? We went back and forth on how he thought we should turn around and start heading back, while me and my mom proceeded to say the kids will be fine, let's keep on going. Well, after about 20 min., Maddie and Chad started to get ancy and cranky. Not sure if it was all the talk about how cranky they were going to be, and that is why they got cranky, or if they were truly over it and wanted to go back. Anyway, it's funny to think back on it, but at the time it was a little crazy. And then when we went to dock the boat, the guy (my mom's neighbor) didn't steer the boat in right and ended up ramming into another boat and the plexi-glass broke.

Here's some pic's of that day on the bay... I was able to get a few happy pictures before the meltdowns hit :)

2009-02-11T22:16:00.000-08:00

I havn't posted in awhile. Havn't taken pictures in awhile. Feeling totally guilty for not having anything to post or write about. My days are filled with working till 5, then coming home to crazy silly kids who want their mommy to play with them and do nothing else. And all I want to do when I come home is spend as much time with them as possible. Maddie tells me about her day, while Chad reaches his little arms up to me saying "momma momma momma" until I pick him up.

Chad has been doing the cutest thing lately. He's going to be guitar player someday. He loves to play with Maddie's pink barbie guitar, he will watch Hannah Montana, play the guitar while Maddie sings and pretends she's Hannah. My goal this week is to get some batteries in my camera and capture this cute moment on camera, so that I can share it with all of you.

We've all been sick this week. Maddie's had a sore throat and has been running a high fever. Tonight she seems to be doing better. Still doesn't have much of an appetite though. Chad broke out in a rash last night but it went away after about an hour, and then broke out in another rash tonight, and it went away rather quickly. Not sure what this is from. I'm going to have to take him to see a dermotologist, he seems to be having some issues.

Maddie is standing here insisting to play ELMO on the computer, so I must close here. Will try and post more later this weekend, hopefully with some updated pictures.

Ozzy

2009-01-28T18:30:00.000-08:00

Last weekend my cat was attached by SOMETHING. Not sure what got to him, but he had been missing for a few days. He's an outdoor/indoor cat and when we moved we had to leave him at my moms house in fear that he would get hit by a car if we brought him with us. We live on a very busy street, not good.

Ozzy is a very adventurous cat. He loves climbing trees, fences and antagonizing his neighborhood feline and canine friends. I don't think this attack was from a cat fight, it seems way more severe. My mom has racoons that roam around her house at night, so we are thinking maybe one fo them got to him? Or he escaped a coyote possibly?

Saturday my brother called to tell me he still hasn't found Ozzy, while we were talking, he found him laying in the backyard, looking up at him, but unable to move. He discovered a hole/gash in his back leg, I drove to my moms as quickly as I could and rushed him to the vet. I had to leave him there over the weekend and picked him up on Monday. They had to operate and remove an big abcess. Today I took him to get the drain removed. I take him next week to get his stiches out. He's walking around with one of those cones around his head, it's so sad. He keeps walking into things. And when I brought him home, the first place he went to was his chair, and JUMPED up on it. I just cringed, because that had to have hurt! Poor Ozzy. Thank god he's ok and the Dr. said he should make a full recovery soon.

Edward withdrawals!

2009-01-24T22:18:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I'm reading New Moon, Edward has left, I'm on page 209, WTF? I know he HAS to come back, but I miss him!!!!

A new look....

2009-01-19T15:23:00.000-08:00

As you guys probably notice, I'm always changing the background of my blog. Last one was too christmas-y, so I've changed it once again.

18 month stats

2009-01-16T22:46:00.000-08:00

Today I took Chad in for his 18 month check-up.
Weight: 28 lbs (75th percentile)
Height: 2' 10"?? (I think), they said he is in the 90th percentile for height. I will double check his height at my mom's house tomorrow.

He was suppose to get 3 shots today, but since he just got over taking antibiotic's, and being so sick the Dr. thought it would be better if I brought him back in 2 weeks. So, in a way I was relieved I didn't have to give him shots today, but now I'm dreading bringing him back.

The Dr. said he is right around where he should be. For his age, he should say between 5-10 words, and he says way over that. He can repeat pretty much any word. It usually doesn't sound the way it should, but he gets pretty close. He can say momma, dadda, maddie (ma-iiii), apple, doggy, ready, ok (k), hi, bye, i love you (yuv-u), night night, grandma (am-ma), kitty, the list goes on. He isn't anywhere near where Maddie was at this age though. I remember Maddie could count to 5 and pretty much say her abc's. Chad can't do either. I'm not going to worry about it though, in time he will get there.

Ear Infections and other things

2009-01-04T21:02:00.000-08:00

Both kids are sick. Chad came down with it last Wednesday, I took off work early to take him into the Dr. to have her check out Chad's rash and that morning he woke up with a bad cough and was having a hard time breathing. His Dr. said that it's just a cold, and the rash is eczema. She prescribed him with some stronger cortizone cream and as for his cough, nothing I can give him except tylenol.

Last night Maddie came down with a cough, and Chad hardly slept. Chris and I were up through out the night checking on Chad because he kept coughing and just couldn't get into a good sleep. This morning he woke up so congested that he couldn't eat anything. I called the on-call Dr. and she suggested I take him into urgent care because he could possibly need a breathing treatment. As I was on the phone with the Dr., Maddie started coughing so hard she started to throw up. I tell you, both kids sick at the same time is no picnic!

Chris was still sleeping through all this crazyness. Maddie just wanted to go and lay in bed and relax, so I brought her in with Chris, and she cuddled up next to her daddy, and I was off to the Dr. with Chad.

As soon as the Dr. saw Chad's rash she said it didn't look like Eczema at all. And, she saw that he had an ear infection (which he didn't have last Wed.). So, she prescribed him with Amoxicillin. She said that should also clear up the rash and that I should stop putting the cream on him that my other Dr. prescribed. I mean seriously, I feel like these dr's are playing a guessing game. No one has any real answers as to what this rash is, it's really kinda weird. At leat Maddie hasn't gotten it so it can't be contagious.

After picking up Chad's prescription we went home and he was so tired, he slept until 4. Then when he woke up he was just so miserable still. We gave him the amoxicillin, and he gagged and cried, I swear, I hate giving medicine. It just seems so cruel. There has to be an easier way to do this!

Both kids are now in bed, watching a show. I can hear poor little Chad in there coughing, and Maddie seems to be doing better. Back to work tomorrow which makes me sad, because I wish I could stay home with the kids, it's always nice to have your mom when your sick. And if I'm in another room Chad is always walking around looking for me. So I know he will be looking for me tomorrow to cuddle with him, poor little guy.

My fitness blog for 2009!

2009-01-01T14:34:00.000-08:00

I've created a new blog to keep me on track with my hopeful attempt to become a little more fit this year. http://brensfitness.blogspot.com/ It's a private blog, so if you are interested in reading it and following my journey to fitness, send me your e-mail and I'll add you.

Happy New Years everyone!

New Years Resolutions

2008-12-28T23:36:00.000-08:00

So, I have a few new years resolutions.

1) Work out more!
2) Go back to blonde
3) Not to be so messy
4) Be more healthy!

1) So, today I went and bought my first ipod. I got the small ipod Shuffle, super cute, super small and easy to clip on to my sweatshirt or pants. We have a gym at our apt. complex and I never use it. I plan to start using it tomorrow to get a little headstart. I also went and bought some new work out clothes. Now I just need to buy good shoes to run in and I'll be set. I won't have any more excuses!

2) So, I'm already tired of being a brunette. My hairdresser is going to kill me when I tell her I want to go back to blonde. I'm sure it will take a few times to get it back to where it was. I'm sure she will try and change my mind. Chris loves it brown, but I just feel better as a blonde. What do you guys think?

3) So I admit, I'm a bit of a slob at times, and I don't pick up after myself. Our bedroom always has piles of clothes, usually clean ones that I just havn't gotten around to hanging up. I'm always leaving my shoes various places around the house, which usually results in me not being able to find them in the morning. I can never find where I put my keys, I feel like I'm a mess at times. Would love to get a handle on this asap!

4) Need to start eating healthier and getting the kids to try and eat healthier. We usually get takeout on nights work late (late for me is 5), it just seems easier to drive through the drive through (especially since Chris isn't into cooking) and would love to get Maddie out of her cheese addiction, oh, and jelly and butter sandwiches. Any suggestions please send them my way!!

What are your resolutions?

Christmas

2008-12-28T22:40:00.001-08:00

We all had a wonderful Christmas this year! Christmas Eve was spent at my mom's house, which is a tradition every year to celebrate with family on Christmas Eve. We use to have such a big group of us, but now that family has moved far away, and my grandparents are no longer with us, it's a small gathering.

We decided two years ago to just buy for the kids, which seems like a good idea because they are the ones who are always so excited for gifts, and it's so much fun watching them open the gifts and to see the excitement in their little faces.

Chad was really into his first present, he carefully unwrapped it, and before it was out of the wrapping started to play with his gift. It was so cute.

Maddie ripped into every gift and screamed in excitement over everything. She was so greatful even with her new clothes. She's such a girlie girl and was very excited over all her new dresses and skinnies (that's what she calls her tights).

Jacob was thrilled with his Tony Hawk skateboard that we got him, and super excited over his guitar hero world tour bundle his dad and Lisa got him.

We finished off the night with Derek's homemade texas cake (our grandmothers recipe) and starbucks coffee.

And it wouldn't be complete without a picture of the kids in their comfy flannel jammies their grandma got them!

It was a perfect night!

After coming home and finally getting the kids to sleep, we went straight to work playing santa. After wrapping most of the gifts I realized I left the kitchen set in my mom's garage. So at 11:30 I jumped in my car and drove over and picked it up. Maddie has been wanting a drum set. She goes to Guitar Center with Chris frequently, that's one of their favorite field trip destinations. Maddie has been talking about how she wants a real drum set. I big one with a kick drum. Oh my! I was very hesitant about getting this for her since we live in an 800 sq. foot tiny apt. Chris insisted that we HAD to get one for her. We compromised and got her a junior drum set. Looked smalll in the store, but when we put it together it took up the entire middle of our living room.

Christmas morning Maddie woke up first and was very excited to run out to see if Santa came. Chris had a plan to put the drumset in the kids room so she didn't see it right off the bat. So, while Maddie was going potty, Chris moved the drumset into the bedroom.

Maddie was super excited to see that santa brought her lots of gifts, and Chad was mostly into the candy canes that were freshly hung on the tree. Once he saw those he could care less about his gifts. Chris had to open Chad's gifts while he sucked on his candy cane. It was so funny.

After they were all done opening gifts, Chris went into the kids room and hollered for Maddie. Maddie ran in and couldn't believe there was a drumset in her room!!!! (For those of you who are wondering why she didn't see the drumset when she woke up, it's because she still sleeps with me and Chris, a habit we will have to soon break!). Maddie couldn't wait to play her drumset. Since Christmas though it has spent most of it's stay in our corner by the TV. At least it stack's up!!

As for our gifts we got from each other, Chris got a laptop for his music so he can do his recording on the computer, and I got a diamond ring, I am in LOVE! It's beautiful. It has three diamonds, for past, present and future. I will have to take a picture of it once it comes back from being sized. I don't get it back until Jan. 3rd! I miss it already!

I hope everyone had as wonderful of Christmas as we did!

Santa Baby!

2008-12-20T22:26:00.000-08:00

Tonight we took the kids to see Santa! Maddie's been talking all week about Santa, and every time Chad see's a picture of Santa he screams SANTA and squeezes his fists and gets so excited. The last 2 years Maddie has been terrified of Santa and we havn't been able to get a picure of her. This year she assured me she would not cry. We got in line and Chad was beside himself! He was seeing Santa in real life. He must of thought he was dreaming or something because when I sat him on Santa's lap he just looked at him in aw. And Maddie was so proud that she was sitting on Santa's lap and not crying. She started to tell Santa how she wasn't afraid of him anymore and that she's a big girl because she is 3! If only I had it on video, it was so cute. Maddie then told Santa that she wanted a drum set for christmas. Santa said OK, which means we now have to get her a drum set! Lovely!

Allergy or Eczema...???

2008-12-20T22:13:00.001-08:00

Chad has had a rash on his elbows for about 2 weeks now. I didn't want to take him into the Dr. because of all the sickness going around and the Dr's office is full of sickies. So, this morning he was messing with his ears and he had a rash on his cheeks. I couldn't take it anymore, I had to take him in just for some sort of explanation of what this could be. I took him to Urgent Care, and the Dr. said it could either be an allergy to soap or possibly eczema. I have to make a follow up with his pediatrition sometime this week.

Awesome tutu's!!

2008-12-14T14:53:00.001-08:00

My friend Amy (whom I met through myspace about 2 years ago) makes these darling tutu's! Check them out here...http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5408130

A christmas tree shopping we will go!

2008-12-06T22:41:00.000-08:00

Last night we ventured off to find the perfect Christmas Tree! We pulled up to the lot, and saw a bunch of flocked christmas tree's. I was in love! I've never had a flocked tree, not sure why, just never have. So I said to Chris... "honey, can we get a flocked tree this year?" "heck ya" he said. So, we got out, walked into the lot, and saw the price tag, and I was like.... hmmmmm... this is probably why we have never purchased a flocked tree, nor did my parents ever buy one when I was little.... because they are SO DAMN EXPENSIVE! I couldn't believe it, for a tree less then 6", flocked.... $79.99! WHAT?

So, Chris said "don't worry Bren, we'll get a flocked tree, I'm sure they will come down on the price". Chris asked if there was any way they could come down on the price and they said no such luck! So, after looking around a bit, we left and went to another lot to see if we could have better luck. The tree's where the same prices. I asked Maddie if she wanted a tree with snow on it or a regular one, and to my surprise she said a regular one. Phew! So, we got a nice tree for only $36.99! That I could live with!

When we got home, we brought the tree in, and got to work.

So, of course, as Maddie hung the ornaments, Chad took them down.

This really upset Maddie, and she cried and threw a big fit. Of course the mother that I am, tried to explain to Maddie that Chad just doesn't understand that the ornaments need to stay on the tree, I told her to him, they are toys, and they look like little balls, so all he wants to do is grab them and throw them. Maddie didn't really want to hear my reasoning, she just wanted to decorate the tree without Chad touching the ornaments. No such luck. Chad continued to take them down as she hung them, but Maddie finally realized it was a no win situation and would pick them up after Chad threw them and would re-hang them. It was a long night, but definitely a memorable one! Here are a few pic's...

Unfortunately even after decorated our tree looks a little bare. I wasn't able to find my christmas decorations from 4 years ago when we had our other place, so we had to go to BIG LOTS and buy some cheapy ornaments. Hopefully when my mom goes through the garage and gets her christmas boxes out mine will appear.

Thanksgiving

2008-12-06T22:18:00.000-08:00

A little late on this post, but better late then never. Thanksgiving this year was great! A little less stressful this since we didn't have to clean clean clean. Just hopped in the car and off to Grandma's (my mom's) house we went. My job was to make the stuffing (which is my favorite, and has to be done just right!), cream corn (which consists of lots of butter, cream cheese and sugar!) and spinach dip (Chris's favorite!) So, I made the dip the night before and chopped up the vege's for the stuffing the night before also. So, it was almost all ready to go when we got to my mom's house. Maddie was excited to help make the vege casserole with grandma and Uncle Derek,
while Chad was off playing with his toys.
Jacob was in charge of the music, and things just fell into place from there.

I love Thanksgiving, not just because of the food, but it's always nice to spend time with family over great food and yummy wine. Here are some pic's from our day.

Goodbye Blonde....hello Brunette!!

2008-11-15T23:48:00.000-08:00

Well, I've been going back and forth with the idea of going back to my natural color for a few months now. Chris has been wanting me to go back natural, the way I looked when we first met! I love being blonde, and I was afraid if I went dark, I would hate it and be miserable! So on Thursday when I went to get my hair done, I decided to go for it. I mean, it's just hair, and if I absolutely hate it, I can always go back to blonde.... gradually of course.

I really didn't think it would turn out this dark though. Wow, what a drastic change. When I came home, Chris was shocked, and excited!! He had no idea I was going dark, and the kids acted like nothing had changed. I asked Maddie if I should go back to blonde, and she said "no mommy, I love your new hair!" And the first day back to work with my new look was scary! Everyone was so shocked, and my boss was like "what did you do that for?" He obviously prefers me blonde, but oh well. Some think it's too dark for my complexion, and others love how the dark hair makes my eyes stand out.

It's kinda growing on me. Not sure if I love it, but it's a nice change for winter time, and I will probably go lighter for summer.

Scary!

2008-11-06T21:45:00.000-08:00

Chad was being awfully quiet, and when I walked into his room, this is where he was!

He made his own little stairs up onto the table so he could try and reach the TV.

Then of course Maddie had to get up there with him...

Last week the TV use to sit on that little table until Chad pulled it off. Yea I know, scary!!! So, I put it up on top of the dresser thinking it would be safe, and now this. So, I guess I will have to figure out another spot for the table so my little monkey can't get to it.

My two trick-or-treaters!

2008-11-01T23:33:00.000-07:00

My mom originally bought Maddie a Dr. costume for Halloween. Maddie wore it to Disneyland and when she was there, she noticed all the little girls were dressed up as little princesses, and Maddie told me "Mommy, I want to be a pretty princess for halloween". So, yesterday on my lunch break, I ran over to Target, went straight to the toy aisle, and found a Snow White costume and wand. Luckily, it was on sale for $14.99, can't beat that! I came home yesterday, and Maddie saw a wand sticking out of the target bag and said "Mommy, is that for me??" She is so sweet. Yes I told her, Mommy got you something "Pretty" to wear for halloween tonight. I pulled the costume out of the bag, with the light up wand and asked her if she would like to be Snow White tonight, and she got the biggest smile, dimple and all, and gave me a big hug and said... "MOMMY... Your the best mommy in the whole wide world!" She couldn't wait to try it on. After dinner, I told her it was time to dress up. She was so proud of herself, and so pretty!

Chad was a giraffe. My friend Jamie's son Jadon was a Giraffe for Halloween last year, and when I saw the costume, I was like... I love that, where did you get it? She told me she would give it to me for Chad, and it was a size 18 month, so it fit him perfectly this year!!!! He made a handsome little giraffe!

Maddie has really come out of her shell this year. Last year she was so shy, and this year, she would say "trick or treat" when the people came to the door with the candy... and "thank you" when they would put candy in her bag. And she wouldn't just say it, she would SHOUT it! So funny. And when someone would tell her she was a beautiful princess, she would get that sweet little dimply smile on her face and say "thank you" and you could just see the twinkle in her eye.

Chad was a little nervous at first. Our first stop was Grandma's house. Chad was excited to see grandma as always, and wasn't nervous there, but when we walked back to my Aunt Helen's house he was. We went inside to get their little goody bags and Chad just stood there, wouldn't move, I thought he might be going poo or something, he never just stops and stands and doesn't move. But I guess he was just kinda scared because it's been awhile since we've walked back to my Aunt Helen's house (she lives behind my mom). Our third stop was my mom's next door neighbor, and Chad started to get a little teary eyed. But after the 4th stop he was a pro. And couldn't get to the next house fast enough. One lady had a big bucket of candy, and apples and oranges. I told the lady, Maddie will go for the candy, and Chad will go for the apple. Sure enough, Maddie grabbed a piece of chocolate, and Chad's little hand grabbed for a juicy red apple. He loves his fruit.

I hope everyone enjoyed their halloween. We sure did.

Tanaka Farms Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-27T19:45:00.000-07:00

Last year we went to the pumpkin patch at Tanaka Farms, and I told myself I would never go back because it was sooooo hot. I like the Pumpkin Patch way better at Irvine Park. But, Tanaka Farms is closer, so we went again this year.... and man was it HOT!!! The thing is there is no shade, the pumpkins are just spread out under the hot sun.

But, we had fun anyway. There were big piles of pumpkins for the kids to climb on

And they had a great petting zoo, where the animals weren't in cages, you could just walk around and pet them. I started getting a little nervous though when Chad would run up to a goat, I was afraid he was going to plop down on one and they would snap. I dont' know, do goats snap?

Maddie picked out the perfect pumpkin, and we were on our way!

Trick-or-Treat Disney style!

2008-10-18T23:59:00.001-07:00

Thursday we went to California Adventure for some Halloween fun (THANKS AMY!!!!) Here are some cute pic's of our night. I had never been to this, and was excited to go, and Maddie was so excited to wear her costume. When I asked Madison what she wanted to be for halloween, she said "I wanna be a DR!", I said, a Dr? Are you sure you don't want to be a princess or tinkerbell or something where you can dress up all girly?" And she said "No Momma!!! I want to be a Dr. so I can help people". I couldn't help but feel so proud over this, that my little girl wants to help people, and by being a Dr. for Halloween makes her feel important and special. It was so cute and she was the cutest Dr. (and I think the only dr.) there! Chad didn't dress up in his costume because it was kinda hot when we left the house. So he just wore his skelteton T from Target, plus it was comfy. Chad and Maddie were just getting over a cold, and I think Maddie and Chad must have gave me their cold, because I was miserable and stuffy and sneezy all night. The things you do for your kids in order for them to have fun.

How cute is she!!!!

2008-10-18T23:49:00.000-07:00

She loves the camera, and the camera loves her! Every time I get the camera out to take pictures, she will immediately start doing all these cute little poses. Um... do I see a future model on our hands? I think so!

Chad's new obsession....

2008-10-18T23:44:00.000-07:00

PURSES!
He loves purses. He will try and take Maddie's all the time, she gets so upset over this because she loves her purses. The other day we were at the 99cent store, and we found these little Elmo bags for 99cents, I mean really, you can't go wrong with some of the stuff there! So we got two (which we've been having to get two of everything lately) and Chad' will walk around with his little Elmo bag like it's his purse. It's really cute. He'll stick his arm straight out so it won't fall, and he'll say "bye bye" and will walk away. I love it!

Birthday parties and sharing..

2008-10-18T22:46:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we took the kids to a birthday party at Pump it Up... They had tons of fun. Anytime there is a bouncer envolved, Maddie is in heaven. There was this one bouncer with basket ball hoops, and there were 3 balls... Maddie would run and grab a ball and would take it to a little girl and offer her the ball.

She's really into sharing right now. We're really been trying to work with her on this because she usually doesn't like to share with Chad. She's really working hard on this though and will offer Chad the cutest things. Today I gave her a cookie and she broke it in two and tried to give Chad the other half. Chad really didn't want it and wouldn't take it. Maddie was so sad over this. She's really been trying hard. And she's been trying to be more affectionate with him too, and give him hugs, and Chad just doesn't want to be hugged. He tries to wriggle away from her and it gets Maddie really frusterated.

Finally!!!

2008-10-13T22:46:00.000-07:00

So, I finally figured out how to get a cute background. Took me a year or so, but did a google search, and wa-la!

Proud moment..

2008-10-10T22:43:00.000-07:00

Chad was able to climb up and sit on the kitchen chair all by himself. He was so proud. I love this picture, he's growing up so fast.

I know... I lag big time!

2008-10-05T10:25:00.001-07:00

I've been meaning to blog, but just havn't had the time. Seems like ever since I started back to work full time, I don't have much time on the computer. And when I am on the computer, I'm checking e-mail and catching up w/ everyone else's blogs, myspace & facebook!

So, work has been busy. I try and leave by 4 everyday, some days if I'm lucky 3:30. I get home, and am of course greeted with happy screams and big kisses. We usually do an early dinner, which most often consists of take out or spaghetti or mac N cheese. I havn't mastered any creative dinners yet, nor do I plan on it, I hate cleaning up messes. Some nights we will go to disneyland and walk around. Some nights we will go over to my moms and do laundry. And some nights I come home, and we just hang out and play. I miss the kids so much during the day, so when I get home all I want to do is spend as much time with them. 8:00pm comes so quickly and that is Chad's bedtime. He still will go down w/ usually no fuss. He's down to just one nap a day, so he's usually ready for bedtime by 8. Anyways, that's pretty much what's been going on with me. Nothing new, nothing exciting. Here's a few cute pic's of the kids.

Best of friends.

2008-09-17T22:52:00.001-07:00

Maddie doesn't know whether to love her brother, or beat him up and tease him. Most of the time she's hugging him. Here's a cute picture of them watching T.V. I will often walk into their room and this is how they will be. Too cute.

Maddie will get up and jump on the ottoman, and Chad is sure to follow...

Maddie see's Chad w/ his pacifier, she takes it...

I try to explain to her she needs to learn to share. But of course, trying to explain that to a 3 year old is nearly impossible. I know one of these days they will be the best of friends.

All over the place...

2008-09-17T22:52:00.000-07:00

Chad is EVERYWHERE!

He's up on the couch, he's in his toybox, he's up on Maddie's bed, he climbs on our bed, he's trying to open doors, climbing up his highchair, just a wild little boy. We had it easy with Maddie. She never got into anything she wasn't suppose to. She was a very quite and easy going little girl. She loved to cuddle (and still to this day does). Chad on the other hand is loud, stubborn (don't get me wrong, Maddie has her stubborn moments too), and he's into everything.

I took Maddie and Chad to Tewinkle Park last night, and we havn't been since they re-did it, and I'm telling you, Chad couldn't seem to get enough of that place.

He was running everywhere, couldn't get to where he was going fast enough. Trying to climb up on everything he could get his little leg up on. His eyes were as big as saucers, he was in heaven! Maddie enjoyed herself also, she especially loved the big chair swings!

I'm so bummed! It's been a while since I've taken pictures, and my camera died after my 4th picture! So, I will have to take more pic's next time.

Work and more!

2008-09-09T23:40:00.000-07:00

Sorry I havn't had time to blog lately. Things have been crazy hectic for me the last few weeks. I started working full time at the law office. They have gotten so busy, have hired a ton of new people and I'm helping train some of the new staff. It's kinda weird how things work out. Chris finished his job he's been working on for the past 2 months and thought the homeowner was going to add more work. The home owner wanted to wait awhile, so Chris posted more ad's on Craigslist, and he didn't get any calls. So, of course, rent payment coming up and all our other bills, figured with how busy my work has been, best bet is for me to go back to work full time while Chris stays home. He was all for it. Now 2 weeks has set in, and I think he really appreciates what I've been doing the past 3 years. He's stayed home here and there with the kids, but now that Chad is walking, and CLIMBING, it is just crazy.

Chad is really starting to say more things. He has this new thing he says, and it's so darn cute. He'll walk around the house saying "da da doo" And he says "shoe" so cute. But it sounds more like "shuuue" lol. I'll have to get it on video and share with everyone. He's getting pretty smart too. If I tell him to get his shoes, he'll walk around the house looking for any shoe and will bring it to me. Most of the time he'll bring me my shoe :) Also, if I ask him if he's hungry, he'll walk into the kitchen and open up his little cupboard that has his snacks in it. I ask him if he wants juice, and he'll go and stand next to the fridge and just look at me waiting for me to open it up and get his juice out. He's getting more affectionate too. When I come home, after being gone all day, he will get the biggest smile, and try and run as fast as he can, because Maddie of course beat's him to me every time. He loves to give hugs, and will put his head on my shoulder and rub my arm. He's also a big kisser too. And of course baby kisses are the best, he opens his mouth real wide and plants a big smooch-a-roo right on the lips. I think Maddie has adjusted pretty well with me going back to work. They have so much fun w/ their daddy, so it makes it so much easier knowing that they have him during the day. Well, it's late, better get to bed, up at 6 now a days!

Labor Day Weekend

2008-09-01T16:32:00.001-07:00

Yesterday we had a fun day at my friends beach house they rented for the week. Maddie loves the beach. She can't get enough of it. Chad didn't like the water at first, but got braver towards the end. When the waves would come, he'd say "no" and point back to the sand. It was really cute. Here are a few pic's of our day.

A cute conversation...

2008-08-14T16:14:00.001-07:00

I love my conversations with Maddie. For instance, today we were driving home from work, Chad was sleeping, and Maddie was in the back just singing away to one of her favorite songs by Aqua (she calls them the Barbie people). And out of nowhere, she says:
Maddie: Mommy, I think when I grow up I'm going to be a bird that flys in the sky.
Mommy: Really honey? That sounds like fun!
Maddie: Will you come with me mommy?
Mommy: Sure baby, I'll come fly with you!
Maddie: Chad can't go because he's just a baby.
Mommy: Ok, maybe when he grows up?
Maddie: Oh, I know, Chad can be a little baby bird!
Mommy: Great idea!
Maddie: And Daddy can be a daddy bird, and you can be the mommy bird, that would be awesome!
Mommy: Your so funny! You make me laugh
Maddie: I do mommy? Oh I love you mommy!

She is so funny with the things she talks about and thinks up. She has the cutest little imagination ever and she just makes me laugh all the time. I love my little Maddie girl!

Week 2

2008-08-13T16:06:00.000-07:00

So, we are on week two living at our new apt. Things are going well, other then the pesky little gnats/fruit fly's we have roaming around our kitchen! We have no pantry, so I don't have anywhere to put the fruit until it gets ripe, nor do I have anywhere to put our bread! There is no cupboard space here, it's getting rather cramped!! Also, there is some strange smell coming from the carpet...it's really making me sick to my stomach right now. I'm not sure what it is, possibly one of Chad's bottles leaked on the carpet, but they leaked at my moms house and we never have had this smell before. So, other then those two things, life has been pretty good.

Chris has been working hard trying to get his job finished, laying a block wall in dover shores. I pray he gets some referrals in that area, that would be awesome! I don't think he has anything lined up after he finishes this one... scary!

The kids love their new little house. Maddie thinks it's fun. She especially loves going night swimming with Daddy. And I love walking down to the pool sipping on a cocktail watching them :) Chad usually kicks back in the stroller and drinks his bottle. Then when we get back, it's time to put the little guy to bed. Maddie on the other hand has been having a hard time going to bed at night. Last night she didn't fall asleep until 12am! I feel like a terrible parent. I feel like she's cranky during the day because she doesn't get enough sleep. She goes down for her nap with no troubles. Maybe it's just a phase she's going through.

Well, I must figure out what to do with this carpet, is seriously stinks! Suggestions?

Where do I start!

2008-08-07T00:01:00.000-07:00

Well, first of all, we're all moved in! Moving day was last Saturday, and it took all day to move. We cleaned out my moms garage (we kinda had to in order to get to all our stuff that we put in there 3 years ago!) That was a task in itself! But we got everything over here, unpacked, and it's awesome! Here are a few pic's of our new place.

Maddie and Chad love it here. I thought Maddie would have the hardest time adjusting to the move, but she thinks it's a lot of fun living in a new place, and hasn't cried to go back to grandma's yet. Though she talks about her a lot and we've been over there almost every day since we moved, so maybe it just hasn't sunk in yet. We live right in walking distance to Mi Casa (my fav mexican restuarant). This could be a really bad thing. We are in walking distance to 17th street, which means I'll probably save in gas, big plus!

Another fiasco... Car problems! Last week when we were looking for apts. my battery died and we had to call a tow truck to jump start us. We took it to Pep Boys and they said we just needed a new battery. I've also been having some other problems with my car, it's been missing and not running right, and when we took it in for an oil change two weeks ago they said we needed spark plugs. Anyway, Saturday (moving day) my car stalled, So, Chris took it into Pep Boys on Sunday to get fixed. It turned out to be some minor thing that they were able to fix with no problem. So, Chris and his friend went to go pick my car up. His friend was driving my car back to the house, and he decided to turn onto Newport Blvd. BAD IDEA! Last night of the fair. He was approaching traffic, so he went to get over, and BAM!!! He got hit. Agh. Why me! So, Chris called me to tell me this, I of course am in a panic, freaking out, not knowing exactly what happened, a million questions going through my head, mostly IS MY CAR OK? Pretty much all that happened was my back tire popped, and I have a big red streak down the back end. Totally sucks. So, now I've got to deal with the insurance company. Oh, and Chris's friend's license is suspended because of a DUI. Beautiful. Just my luck! And, I'm driving around w/ a big ol' black spare tire. NICE! Here's some pic's.

Then today I got in my car to go to work w/ the kids, and it kinda hesitated when I tried to start it. Which is exactly what it did before we took it in to get a battery. I called Chris and he told me not to go anywhere, but I had to go to work. So, went to work, and made it home ok. When Chris got home, he was going to take it back to Pep Boys, but when he got in, it wouldn't start. So, we checked on Craigs List for mechanics, and found someone who would come out and fix it tomorrow, kinda sketchy. Chris went to buy an alternator (that's what he thinks is wrong w/ it) (230 bucks! ouch!) and met a guy who owns a shop on 17th, so made an apt. w/ him in the morning. I pray that this is the end of my car problmes.

Moving day...

2008-08-01T07:31:00.000-07:00

is tomorrow! I can't believe we are actually moving. About 4 years ago when I got pregnant, Chris and I decided it would be best if we moved in with my mom so that I could be a SAHM. Well, we ended up staying longer then expected because I got pregnant again, and financially we just couldn't afford a big rent payment. Also Chris's work wasn't steady. Well now, some things are going on with the house we live in (long story, most of you already know it), so we decided now is the time to move. Chris's work is going well right now, and I pray it continues to grow. We are moving into a 2 bedroom 1 bath apt., only 850 sq. feet, so it will be an extremely tight squeeze, but we kinda have to do it. I will be sad to leave my mom, and she is extremely sad to see us go. She is going to miss coming home to the kids everyday. But I've promised we will visit ALL THE TIME! Plus we are moving right down the street from her! I'm excited and nervous at the same time. Excited to unpack all our stuff we boxed up 4 years ago, all our kitchen stuff, wedding gifts, everything that's been packed away for so long. Hopefully everything is still in tact and usable. And nervous because I'm worried about making rent. Agh. That first rent payment will be a killer. We got a great move in deal. The apt. we found was already vacant, and they were actually turning it into their model. It's on the first floor, which I really wanted. And right by the laundry room (I know, no washer and dryer in the unit, TOTALLY SUCKS!). We got $1500 off move in. So, we only have to pay $600 to move in. All the other places were like $2000 or $3000 to move in, so we got really lucky. Wish us luck tomorrow. I'll post pic's later in the week. I will most likely be keeping my computer here at my moms for about a week because our new internet service won't be on until next Saturday.

The many faces of Maddie

2008-07-24T23:16:00.000-07:00

Maddie is such a little ham! Every time I point the camera at her, she stops what she's doing and poses. Usually with a funny face. I took these today and she just had me laughing so hard with the faces she was making I had to share them.

The Dunes

2008-07-24T23:06:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday we spent the day w/ family visiting from up north at Newport Dunes. They had a spot for their RV right on the sand. We had a fun day of eating, drinking, and a bonfire w/ smores to top it off. When we got there Chad and Maddie headed right towards the water. I didn't realize that the sand was more like dirt there, because once we got to the water, it was muddy, ew! We also found out there was jelly fish warnings, and some kids actually caught a jelly fish in their bucket. So, playing in the water ended quickly. Here's a cute picture of Chad all muddy, so cute.

Here's Chad after eating his first smores. He loved it, he couldn't get enough of it :)

Last night...

2008-07-17T23:01:00.001-07:00

I got my hair done, and when I got home Maddie had a surprise for me. Her and Chris made lays, and she couldn't wait to give me mine. Sooo cute!

The Beach

2008-07-17T22:49:00.000-07:00

Tonight we took the kids to the beach. It was such a hot and pretty day, but then by the time we got to the beach, it was cold and over-cast. Maddie however enjoyed herself and didn't want to leave. I was surprised at how much she loved the beach. The last time we took her she didn't seem to be that into it. But she just wanted to go farther and farther in the ocean. It was getting cold though and she didn't have her bathing suit and she was shivering. So we had to leave, she cried a good 10 minutes afer we left poor little pumpkin.

Chad's first pair of real shoes.

2008-07-15T22:23:00.000-07:00

Tonight I took Chad to get his feet sized. He's been wearing Robeez, but since he's started walking I thought I better get him something that gives him a little more support and more safer in case he were to step on something. I couldn't believe it when they told me he was a size 6! He's only 12 months old and he's a 6? That is just crazy. These are the shoes I got Chad. I just got him some comfy sandals, something easy I can slip on him w/out having to put socks on him.

Maddie got sized and she's already a 9 1/2. She picked out these crazy sparkly shoes. She just had to have them. She was so excited to wear them home. They are Morgan and Milo shoes...

I was going to get me some running shoes, but there was no way Chad was going to last one more store, he only had one nap today and he was D-O-N-E!!!!! So, my shoes will have to wait until another day!

This morning....

2008-07-13T22:12:00.000-07:00

I took the BOB for a stroll. Me and Jacob walked around our neighborhood. I couldn't wait to use it. Didn't go jogging yet though because I don't have a pair of running shoes. The only tennishoes I have are vans, and they aren't good to run in, plus they are like 4 years old. I live in my flip flops so I really never buy shoes. Pretty pathetic! So, the Bob is so nice, it's like a rolls royce of strollers. My other stroller is sooooo hard to turn, It's like having a car w/ no power steering. The only thing I'm worried about is taking it to the store and just going out and about w/ it. I'm not sure how it's going to fit through doors. Plus it's super heavy. It's really hard for me to close it up and put it in my SUV. The lady in the store made it look so easy. I think I must be picking it up wrong, because every time I pick it up it feels like it's going to open back up on me. Hopefully I'll figure it out soon.

The BOB

2008-07-11T20:13:00.000-07:00

Finally, I got it! Disneyland, here I come, no more headaches w/ my other stroller, can't wait!

Roseola??

2008-07-10T21:20:00.000-07:00

The past few days Chad has been kinda fussy, hasn't had much of an appetite and had a small fever yesterday. I just thought he was getting more teeth in maybe. Well, Chris had today off, so I went into work, and he called me and said Chad woke up with a rash all over his face, tummy and back. Poor little guy. So, it clicked, w/ all the fussyness, no eating, it sounded like he got some kinda virus. Well, today I had an appointment w/ my Dr., which is also Chad's Dr., so I thought, I'll just bring him w/ me, and have the Dr. take a look at him and see what she thinks it is. Right when she saw him she said it looked like a Viral rash, could either be Fifth Disease or Roseola. I'm pretty sure after research it's roseola, he never got the red cheeks like you get with the fifth disease, I remember Maddie had that at Chad's age. They say once they have the rash they are no longer contagious, I just hope Maddie doesn't get it next.

The next American Gladiator?

2008-07-10T21:19:00.001-07:00

Doggy!

2008-07-08T14:49:00.000-07:00

Chad learned a new word. DOGGY! It's soooooo cute. He started saying it on the
4th. Maddie has this little plastic dog, and Chad got a hold of it, and now it's his new best friend. He'll hold it, look at it and say "doggy". Then he'll try and bark, it's the cutest thing ever! I have it on video, I'll post it as soon as I upload it.

Happy 4th!

2008-07-05T00:13:00.000-07:00

We had a fun day today. We didn't have our usual big party like we normally do. It was just us, my brother and Lisa, and her parents. It was such a pretty day. The kids had so much fun slip-n-sliding, we had yummy hot dogs, mac salad and deviled eggs, and a yummy cake my brother and Lisa brought over. Then we did fireworks. Chad was so tired because he only had his morning nap. I tried putting him down for his afternoon nap, but there was no way with everyone outside on the driveway. So he was a trooper and lasted until 9:30 p.m. Here are some pic's. I had to make 2 slideshows because there were too many pic's for one.

Chad's Birthday Party Pic's

2008-07-03T21:45:00.001-07:00

Summertime Fun!

2008-07-03T21:43:00.001-07:00

Chad's one year stats!

2008-07-01T23:31:00.000-07:00

Today was Chad's one year check-up. I always hate taking him to the dr. because there's always shots involved, and today he had to get 5! He of course screamed his little lungs off, can't even think about it, I hated it! He weighs 23 lbs (50-75th percentile) and is 30.8 inches long (90th percentile). I thought he would for sure be in a higher percentile for his weight, but sounds to me like he's right around where he should be.

Chad's birthday party was a lot of fun. It was a bit cold because we had it under the tree's at the park, but was hot out on the playground. The kids had fun, and it was simple. I of course much prefer the parties at the house, but this was a nice change for once. And a lot less clean up! I will post pic's soon.

HAPPY 1ST BIRTHDAY CHAD!

2008-06-29T09:42:00.000-07:00

Dear Chad,One year ago today, I was getting ready to go into the hospital for a scheduled c-section. I remember packing for the hospital, and having to say bye to your sister. I was scared and nervous. It was a weird feeling knowing I'd be staying away from your sister and your daddy for a few nights, but at the same time I was so excited knowing that I'd be spending that time getting to know my brand new baby boy.At 2:18 p.m. you were brought into this crazy world. You came out screaming and I of course tears of joy were streaming down my face. They lifted you up over the blue sheet so that I could see you. I couldn't believe it was actually real, I had a son. We named you Chad Maverick, and our family was complete, a girl and a boy, what more could we ask for? And with your sister still needing to be center of attention, you were such a cool little baby, that you let her be. Our time together w/out any interruptions was of course your midnight feedings and early morning feedings. I would set my alarm so that in case you didn't wake, I'd be right there ready to feed you at the exact time. Usually you were already up though waiting to be picked up and fed. You weren't a big crier. You in fact didn't cry much. I thought, this is too good to be true. And when you turned 3 months, you slept through the night. Another miracle! It seems like you grew up too fast Chad. I feel like I didn't get enough cuddly time with you because your sister was feeling a little jealous, and I had to give her lots of love too. But you were a trooper, and you hung in there. And today you are such a good little baby. You love to go on walks. You love being outside period. You love to eat, man do you love to eat! I think your favorite meal must be Mac N Cheese and hotdogs. You love trying new things which makes me so happy. Your smile makes me smile. Your giggle touches my heart. And I already know you have such a big heart in that little tiny body of yours. I know this because your sister can be a big ol' brute, knock you over, push you, shove you, and you just look at her with those big blue eyes, like "why did you do that?" But you will shrug it off, and still go back for more. You like to tease your sister already. I can see there could be trouble here. I keep telling your sister, "Someday he's going to be bigger then you!" But I know you two will end up being the best of friends. I can't wait to see you guys grow together. I'm so lucky to be your mommy. You make my life have meaning. This year has been full of firsts! You're already walking! It's so cute to watch you attempt new things and you amaze me each and every day with the new things you do. Your starting to crawl up onto things, stand on things, you even try to climb up the guard rail. I can see you are a little risk taker. And you are also a big flirt. We got you your very first haircut and you are working it, let me tell you. You've had so many compliments on your new due, and you just love it. Today you are one, happy birthday sweety, I'm so excited to continue to watch you grow. Your life is just beginning! Have fun being ONE! Love Mommy.

Slip-n-slide Sunday!

2008-06-24T21:56:00.000-07:00

Saturday afternoon we went to a pool party for Maddie's friend Brandon who turned 3. I wasn't sure how Maddie would do in the big pool because she is kinda afraid of going under. At first she sat on the side of the pool for a few minutes. I was carrying Chad around and he loved it! Maddie saw that Chad wasn't afraid, and eventually let me carry her around too. She didn't want to get out! I unfortunately forgot my camera and missed out on some great pictures! So, on Sunday we were going to go to Chris's friends house and swim, but he never called us back, so we went to K-Mart and bought a slip-n-slide! Maddie had so much fun, and so did Chad. Chad got a kick out of crawling up and down the slip n slide and playing with the water coming out of the side. I even went down the slip n slide a few times myself. Chris got it on video, but sorry, can't post that, LOL! Here are some pic's of our fun day.

Fathers Day

2008-06-18T23:34:00.000-07:00

Just now getting around to posting these pic's from Fathers Day. We didn't do a whole lot during the day. Chris slept in till 11, and by the time he got up, Chad had already napped and was ready for lunch. So we went to Chris's favorite Breakfast place BILLS BURGERS! Then we came home, played with the kids, Maddie took her afternoon nap while Chad refused to nap. Then when Maddie woke up we took her to Disneyland. My mom offered to watch Chad since he didn't nap and was due for bedtime. We left around 7pm, just in time for the Electric Parade, fireworks and Maddie's new favorite thing, watching the band play in tomorrow land. She just wanted to watch the band play all night.

She could care less about the rides. Maddie must have caught the guitar players eye, because he came up to her and played a lead right in front of her, she was in heaven!

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Chad's first hair cut

2008-06-15T00:15:00.000-07:00

Today we took Chad to Cool Cuts for his very first hair cut.

I was a little hesitant at first, because I just love tossling his fine little baby hair. But, it was getting too long on the sides and overlapping his ears, and the back really needed cut, so Chris said, "hey, lets give him a Mohawk!" Oh boy, I was like... uh... okay.... a little scared to actually buzz the sides of his head. But, it's hair, right? It'll grow back.

I must say, he looks pretty darn cute!

Of course, I'm getting a lot of slack from some people all ready, but someday when lil Chad Maverick looks back at his baby pic's, he's gonna say "Wow, I had really cool parents for my first haircut to be a mohawk!

Let's hope anyway :)
Wonder what his next hair cut will be like?

Maddie's play date!

2008-06-12T20:56:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I met up w/ my friend and her kids at the Spectrum. We had a fun day of eating and playing. Maddie and Brandon had loads of fun and giggled together and couldn't give each other ENOUGH hugs.Maddie and Brandon especially enjoyed playing in the water feature!Maddie and Brandon's playdate

Chad is walking!

2008-06-12T17:05:00.001-07:00

It's so cute, he thinks he's such a big shot! He will stand at the couch, and then bravely let go and walk as far as he can, which is usually to the gate or who-ever is routing him on! I'm really having a hard time with how fast he has grown.
Chad's walking!

Sunday sick-day!

2008-06-12T17:01:00.000-07:00

Maddie had a touch of the flu Sunday, she threw up 3 times. Monday she was still not back to her normal self. She seems to be feeling better, however her appetite still isn't up to par. She refuses to eat her normal favorites which are Mac N Cheese, Cheese sandwiches, string cheese and pizza. She had a few bites of spaghetti last night, a few bites of jelly sandwich, she ate an eggo yesterday and she is eating tons of fruit. She's afraid she will throw up if she eats cheese because before she threw up she had string cheese. Poor little thing. I'm not sure what to do. I've told her she is fine and won't throw up from it, that she was sick and that's why it happened. Guess she's going to have to find something else she will eat.

A few things...

2008-06-06T16:43:00.000-07:00

This is a cute lil video of Chad eating spaghetti and just being silly. He's just recently developed this strange laugh, and I figured out last night what it reminded me of.... a dolphin! It's so funny. He does it a few times in this video. You will know what I'm talking about when you hear it. He does it all the time, it makes me laugh every time I hear it! So, Chad LOVES spaghetti! I think this is his favorite meal I make, which is GREAT because it's the easiest, and pretty much the only thing Maddie will eat, other then Mac N Cheese! Usually I will pile Chad's tray w/ a bunch of spaghetti, and let him go at it, but I had just bathed him, and wasn't about to put him back in the bathtub after dinner. I will have to get another video sometime of that, because it's always fun to watch little ones drown themselves in spaghetti!
Chad

This is usually how Chad looks after one of his spaghetti meals... Last weekend we had Jacob's birthday. We went to boomers which was fun, but he wasn't able to ride the go-karts by himself which was a bummer. He was pretty upset, but I still think he had a great time, especially when he saw what his dad and Lisa got him for his birthday! Maddie had fun playing miniature golf riding the train and the teacups... And here's Maddie in her princess get-up Daddy won her.. More pic's can be viewed on Myspace under Jacob's birthday! Let's see, what else. Oh.. Maddie was in one of her crazy moods the other day, and was jumping on the bed during NAP TIME, after we continuously told her to settle down, and she fell of the bed! She landed on one of Chris's music boxes. Here's a picture of her boo boo. SHE HASN'T JUMPED ON THE BED SINCE!

LOVE my new camera!!!!

2008-05-27T23:31:00.000-07:00

This weekend we finally got a new camera. I was trying to put it off as long as possible, because I didn't really want to spend money on a camera, but I was having picture taking withdrawals, and Chris was tired of hearing about me complain about the flash not working, so he said... LETS GO BUY YOU A NEW CAMERA!!! I was like.... SWEET!!!! So, we found one for $99.00, 2nd to the cheapest at Best Buy, it's a Kodak Easy Share, and it takes GREAT pics! And you can't beat the price.

Here are a few pic's we took tonight at the park.

Peek-a-Boo!

2008-05-20T11:27:00.000-07:00

Check out this video: Peek-a-Boo!

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Yesterday....

2008-05-20T00:34:00.000-07:00

Chad took his first two steps. He's been standing and trying to balance on his own without holding on to anything. He's still a little wobbly, but is determined. He's been going from chair, to in-table, to couch, taking little steps, then falling into what-ever it is he's trying to reach. Hopefully he'll be walking by his first birthday. I can't believe he'll be one end of next month. He's just growing so fast. And it's sad to me because he's my last baby. I'm almost 100% positive we won't be having anymore. I'm so happy with my two children, they are more then I ever imagined them being. They bring so much happiness to my life. When ever I'm feeling sad or depressed, they cheer me up. The other day I was upset about something, can't remember exactly what it was, but Maddie wrapped her little arm around my leg and said "it's gonna be ok momma", kids just say the sweetest things.

Chad loves........

2008-05-20T00:24:00.000-07:00

FOOD!!! Man, this boy can eat! He loves Mac N Cheese and especially loves RICE! It just cracks me up to watch him eat. Tonight he was eating rice, and he uses his little pinchers and grabs up the tiniest amount and really quickly shoves it in his mouth in fear of losing it. Then he laughs. Today we had a lot of fun playing, he loves to play with Maddie's Little People. We got Maddie the school for her birthday, and Chad loves to put the little people in the little tire swing. He thinks it's so cool that these little people can do all these things. He puts them in, takes em out, puts them in, he'll do this over and over. He has also learned to share. Before if you tried to take something from him he would cry. But, now we have this little game we play where I say "give it to momma" and he'll give me whatever it is he's holding, then he'll wait for me to give it back to him. This game can go on forever too. Chad also loves to swing with his sister. It's really cute, and I'll have to get a picture of what they just started doing. When they are swinging next to each other, when their swings are going right next to each other, they just gaze into each others eyes and hold their little hands out to one another and they will swing while holding hands and just giggle back and forth. It's the sweetest thing. I just think to myself, this is only the beginning of how much fun they will have with one another. I can't wait to see what happens next.

Maddie's birthday and other stuff

2008-05-18T23:06:00.000-07:00

Last weekend was Maddie's party and it turned out great. We had great weather, a little windy though, but at least it was sunny, and not too hot. The outfit I originally got Maddie to wear for her party didn't last long. It lasted 2 seconds actually. The only thing she ended up wearing was her princess skirt. And she HAD to wear her star t-shirt, which didn't go all that great, but it was ok because that's what she wanted to wear. So, I let her wear it and her little jean jacket w/ the tank top I guess will just sit and go unworn. She says it's uncomfortable. So be it.

Chad had his first bite of cake, which I know, probably should have saved that for his birthday, but we couldn't resist...

Anyway, Maddie had a great time and once she warmed up to everyone being on her territory she was fine. She had a lot of fun with all the kids that came, and jumped in her bouncer until 7pm.

Then on Monday we went to Disneyland for her birthday. My mom, brother and nephew Jacob joined us.

Chris and Jacob had fun riding Space Mountain. While Maddie stuck to her SAFE rides of the little toy train and the ups and downs. She warmed up to Dumbo, but refuses to go on any ride that enters into a dark tunnel. Which I guess can look scary to a 3year old.

and Jacob was a sport and went on the kiddie rides with Maddie!

This past week has been soooooo hot. And of course w/ no A/C, I've been in a terrible mood. I hate hot weather, it totally sucks! So, I've just been trying to stay out of the house as much as possible. Maddie's enjoyed playing in the sprinklers and sitting in her little pool.

I put Chad in the tiny pool today for the first time, and he didn't like it. The water was really cold though so I don't blame him, it was a bit of a shock to him I think.

and I still havn't taken my camera in to get fixed, so that is why a lot of my pictures are dark

I went to Childrens Place yesterday and got Maddie some new bathing suits, because she has outgrown her ones from last year.

I got her a cute 2 piece and a one piece. I put the two piece on her today and she didn't want anything to do with it. Nothing new. She's so picky. It's a size 4 though so maybe next year it'll still fit and she'll like it then. Got Chad a really cute pair of swim trunks and water shoes, size 18 months, they are huge on him. Childrens Place sizes run really big. I love that store though, they always have the cutest things at great prices.

I know I've rambled, I've never been a good writer... so sorry.

Finally!!!!

2008-05-07T23:19:00.000-07:00

We got disney passes! We got the 2fer tickets for Maddie's birthday, and we decided to go today for one of the days because the tickets expire on May 22nd. So, we got there, and saw that it was only a little extra to upgrade for season passes. So, we decided to do it. Now we can go more often.

Maddie had a rough start, was a little scared to go on the rockets and the buzz light year ride, but she loosened up a little when we went on Dumbo. Then we went over to California Adventure so she could ride the Golden Zepher, that is her favorite.

As for Maddie's party, I still have a million things to do before Saturday. Hoping to get the house all cleaned up and ready for guests. It's so hard to keep the house clean w/ a 10 month old and a soon to be 3 year old.

Countdown to Maddie's 3rd Birthday Party

2008-05-04T22:39:00.001-07:00

Disney Princess theme! 6 days until Maddie's party. I told myself, I'm going to go simple. Not go overboard this year. Well, we had to get Maddie a jumper. There was just no question about that one. She loves loves loves jumpers. And every birthday party we go to, she is always too shy to get in there with the other kids, that she ends up just watching all the kids jump and play and have a great time, and it just breaks my heart because I know she so badly wants to get in there with the other kids, but for some reason she just can't break out of her shell.

We ordered her the Disney Princess Jumper. Has her favorite disney princess's on it. I went to Party City tonight and got most of the stuff I needed, a few decorations (nothing fancy or over the top), plates, cups, oops, forgot the napkins! Got the tablecloths for outside tables, pink, blue & yellow (color scheme). We are going to rent a few tables, chairs & umbrellas, like we did last year. That was the one extra I just wanted to do away with. But Chris said that we had to get them. He's like "Where's everyone going to sit?" agh. My original plan was to have everything in the front yard and on the driveway. But we have this stupid tree, that looks like a plant right smack in the middle of the front yard.
So, the jumper couldn't go there, and don't want to put the jumper on the driveway, but it would then block the "rustang" (new name Chris came up with for my brothers 89 Mustang which has been parked in the driveway for years!).
Chris x'd out my idea of the front yard party and said it would be better to have it in the back. My mom agreed. So, of course, my plan once again out the window. I just thought it would be easier to keep an eye on the kids and stuff with all the windows we have in our living room. Then we could keep all the food inside. Just seems like such a walk from the backyard to the kitchen, and plus you can't see everyone when you are inside.

We are going to go to costco on Thursday, order the cake, and for food I guess we are just going to do pizza and salads. Again... SIMPLE! Plus, kids love pizza, can't go wrong there.

I went to the Disney store last Friday and picked out the cutest outfit for Maddie to wear. Princess skirt, w/ tank top & cute little jean jackat (but w/ short sleeves), she looks so darn cute in it! Also purchased 2fer tickets so that we can take Maddie to Disneyland on her actual birthday. She is so excited!

So, that's about it for now. Tomorrow I'm going into work, and possibly celebrating Cinco De Mayo w/ some people from work. Oh, speaking of "going out", last night I actually got out of the house! Yup, went to Sutra w/ my best friend. We kinda just people watched and made fun of all the skimpy little outfits all the girls were wearing, so funny! Had a great time.

Evening fun

2008-05-04T22:19:00.000-07:00

Maddie's favorite thing to do in the evening is swing and just run around in the backyard, exploring, and seeing what she can get herself into. Here's a slideshow of her and Chad the other night.

My camera took a crap!

2008-04-29T23:44:00.001-07:00

Sorry for the lack of pic's. My camera's flash has decided to just stop working. So, I guess I just need to take it into the camera store to see what the problem is. Now, it's just finding the time to do that.

Bye Bye Ba Ba

2008-04-29T23:31:00.000-07:00

Maddie has finally said bye bye to her ba ba's! I didn't think this day would ever come, because she loves her bottles so much. Especially when Chad gets one or when she lays down for her nap. Since Chad was born, she has had her moments where she acts like she is a baby too, especially when she is drinking her bottle. I was watching Super Nanny the other night, and she had a great idea on how to get a child off a paci. So, I used it for the bottle. Sunday night we were at the grocery store, and Maddie saw a pink princess sippy cup. She just had to have it. I told her I would get it for her if she stopped drinking her ba ba's. She said she would, and I was thinking, ha, right, she's just saying that so I will buy this sippy cup for her. So, I bought it for her, and when we got home, I told Maddie about the Ba Ba Fairy. I told her that she is a beautiful little fairy, kinda like Tinkerbell. And what she does, is she collects old ba ba's from little girls who are too old to be drinking from a bottle, and she delivers them to little babies who need them. I told her that the ba ba fairy will then leave her a special present for giving her bottles away. Maddie looked at me and said "Ok Ma Ma, I will give my ba ba's for the babies". So, we bagged up her baba's, and we took them out to the mailbox. She put them in the mailbox herself, and I couldn't help but to get all watery eyed, because I think I was feeling that this is it, she's no longer a baby anymore. She's potty trained, and now no more bottles. I know this is something we should have done like a year ago, but maybe I was just holding onto this one last thing, who knows. So, that night after she fell asleep, I ran out and grabbed the bottles and in their place, I put a present from the ba ba fairy. I was sad the next morning because I had to go to work, and I wasn't going to see her reaction to the gift in the mailbox. But I guess she woke up and remembered, and Chris took her outside and let her open the mailbox. Inside was a red box with a bow. And inside that box was a princess camera. She was very excited. And to my amazement, she hasn't asked for a bottle since. Thanks Super Nanny!

Crazyness!

2008-04-16T23:49:00.000-07:00

Chad has outgrown his 12 month sleepers already. I just can't believe how big he has gotten so quickly! I put him in his 18 month sleepers and his little feet have room now. He was in heaven when I went in there to check on him, he was sprawled out and looked so comfy. Wasn't able to grab a pic though, will have to get one later this week.

Good days, bad days!

2008-04-15T06:39:00.000-07:00

Chad is on a little roller coaster right now. Not sure if it's a 9 month issue or not, Maddie was always a challenge when it came to bedtime and naps, so at times with Chad, I think, wow, it's this easy? And then other times I think, nope, guess not! Now that Chad is pulling himself up to stand, bedtime and naptime is getting harder and harder. Before I could lay him on his tummy w/ his pacifier, and he would go right to sleep. He was my little miracle baby. But now, I lay him down on his tummy, and he rears right up! He grabs onto the railing w/ those little pudgy hands and pulls himself right up and just looks at me like "why are you leaving me here momma?" This is one thing I could not do with Maddie. I couldn't just put her in her crib and leave her there crying. Now, I'm starting to have these same feelings with Chad now that he is getting bigger and looking at me like he knows what's up! Saturday he went down for his morning nap with just a little bit of a fuss, but when it came to his afternoon nap, there was no way! He would not have it. He cried, screamed, threw the biggest tantrum. I finally gave up. I went in there and he had snot running down his nose, tears a flowing, he could hardly catch his breath, I was just like FORGET IT! I was hoping Chad would be the easy one. He is starting to have his own little personality. It's just so confusing at times. And sometimes he seems to make a game out of it. I will keep going in his room and laying him back down, and he'll start to laugh and will think it's funny that he keeps standing up. It's like I'm frusterated, but at the same time, I am in ah because he is so darn cute! As for playing games, we have this other game that we play when I put him in his car seat. I usually will have his paci in my mouth while I'm buckling him in, and he'll grab it from me with a huge grin, then he'll put it in his mouth, then he'll try and put it back in mine. We'll go back and forth with this a few times, and Chris will be like, enough already. But sometimes we're just in our own little world. I had no idea how precious little boys could be. That little face of his is the most sweetest little thing.

Well, I better start getting ready for work.

March pic's!

2008-04-04T23:59:00.000-07:00

My little ham!

2008-04-03T23:10:00.001-07:00

Maddie loves to put on mommy's lipstick, then run and look at herself in the mirror. She just cracks me up!

My silly boy.

2008-04-03T23:06:00.000-07:00

Here's a funny video of Chad standing in his crib. He mimicks a lot of things I do, and recently he started clicking his tongue back at me. He has also found his tongue and does some really funny faces. Check it out!

Chad's 9 month stats!

2008-04-01T13:57:00.001-07:00

Took Chad to the Dr. today for his 9 month check up. He weighs 21.8 lbs (75th percentile) and is 31 inches long(95th percentile). Dr. said he is a very healthy boy. When Chad was born, his testicles hadn't dropped because he was a little early, happens in some premature babies, not many though. Anyway, both of his testicles dropped by the time he was 3 months, and at every appt. the Dr. checks to make sure he's all there. But, today, the Dr. had a hard time finding one of his testicles. So weird. Poor little guy. I know it's there somewhere, I guess sometimes you have to milk them down, who knew? The Dr. said to keep an eye out and I may need to take him in for an ultrasound and take him to a neurologist. I pray he's ok and that we don't have to worry about surgery. I would just die. Anyway, no shots for my little pumpkin this time around, phew! I do have to take him to the lab sometime and get his iron levels checked before he turns one.

New Car Seat for Chad

2008-03-30T23:29:00.001-07:00

So, I've been desperately needing a new car seat for Chad. The weight limit for his Infant car seat went to 22 lbs. And that's how much he weighs, so we finally went out and purchased an Alpha Omega Elite car seat for him. We really wanted to get a Marathon Britax like Maddie's but they are so expensive. So, after I got home w/ the Alpha Omega, and took it out of the box, I started feeling a little guilty for not getting Chad the better car seat like we got Maddie. So, I boxed it back up, took it back the next day, and spent the extra $120 and got him the Marathon just like Maddie's. I'm so glad I did. You really can't beat the Britax car seats, they are the best, and so comfy for them. I'll post pic's later of him in his brand new comfy car seat.

We took the kids to the Discovery Center today. What a rip off, terrible idea taking them on the weekend. It was so packed, Maddie couldn't even play w/ any of the stuff because all the rowdy kids running like mad everywhere. We'll have to take her during the week I guess.

Work tomorrow.

Chad's 9 month appt. on the 1st. Will post his stats then.

Easter Sunday

2008-03-24T17:28:00.000-07:00

We had a pretty mellow Easter. Chris was in bed all day with a terrible cold, the kids and I were finally over our sickness, and we just kinda veged all day. Our day started with Maddie seeing her easter basket, she was so excited with all the candy. My bad, shouldn't have gotten her so much, she insisted of having a cadbury egg for breakfast. What the heck, it was easter!

My brother and Lisa came over, we made sandwiches for lunch, drank some wine, and roller skated. Ok, so it's been years since I've roller skated, and I felt a little silly, but it was fun :)

Derek and Lisa surprised Maddie and Chad with fun Easter Baskets. NO CANDY! HURRAY!

Maddie got a kick out of her princess heels, too cute.

In all we had a great day, other then Chris being sick of course.

Easter shopping and egg coloring!

2008-03-22T15:25:00.000-07:00

So, today is Saturday and everyone's working but me. I was planning on doing the easter eggs with Maddie last night, but our target shopping ended up taking longer then expected. I keep telling myself, next time I need to go shopping, I'm leaving the kids home, but never fails, I end up always bringing them with. Chris was working late, so my mom came with me. I needed to get easter stuff, w/out Maddie seeing, so my mom took the kids over by the toy section, while I went and scoped out the easter section. Everything was of course all picked over, but I got the basics, and couldn't resist picking out a few cute outfits for Maddie. Having a girl is so much fun. Boys are fun too, but I just love all the girly stuff. Anyway, after I got the stuff I needed, I went to look for my mom, and of course heard Chad crying, he was all frusterated and tired poor thing. So, my mom took over the easter shopping and I strolled around target w/ a crying baby who I had to hold to settle down, and a 2 1/2 year old toddler who kept whining "I hold you mommy" agh. So frusterating. Finally, my mom was done, and came walking up and said "Oh, I forgot to tell you, I think Chad pooped." Great! Here that's what his problem was, and me w/ my stuffy nose couldn't smell a thing. I was like, why didn't you tell me this earlier!!!! So, next time, note to self, leave the kids, or at least one of them home.

So, today, when Chad went down for his morning nap, I got all the stuff ready for Maddie to color the eggs. She was so excited. She did pretty good, except for dropping the eggs in the dye, after I told her to gently set them in. So, some of them are cracked, but she didn't care :)

He got it!

2008-03-22T15:20:00.000-07:00

Well, Chad got our sickness, he's finally starting to feel better today. Yesterday was the first day I didn't have to give him tylenol or motrin. I hate it when they're feverish, seemed like he had a neverending fever, but thank goodness he's better, just has a little cough now. Maddie's all better too, just that lingering cough w/ her also. Now Chris has it, he had the fever last night and the chills, and he never gets sick. And he had to get up at 6:30 to go to work today, poor guy. I hope everyone is feeling better by tomorrow.

Another Monday...

2008-03-17T06:25:00.001-07:00

Well, here it is Monday again, and here I am, getting up at 6 am, getting ready for work. Good news is, Chris has 2 jobs lined up and starts one on Wed. I've been sick this past week, Maddie is coming down with it, and I pray Chad doesn't get it. Starts with a slight fever and cough, then runny nose, chills, everything, yuck!

This last week has been a rough week for Maddie. She has been acting out more lately, bad tempers if she doesn't get her way, yelling, screaming no, throwing herself down to the ground. Chad took something from her the other day and she got so angry she almost pushed him, I had to stop her. This is so out of charecter for her. I just don't understand what is going on with her. She's wet the bed twice this past week, and she's been out of diapers since January. Some say it's because I've been working more and havn't been home with her as much. I don't know. Chris says she'll think of me and get really sad and say "I want my mommy". It just breaks my heart. I want to be here for her, I just wish she understood that sometimes mommy has to go to work. Hopefully more jobs will be coming in, and I can be home more often for her. She's also pretending to be a baby a lot more lately. It's so frusterating, she whines, and cries at the littlest things. I hope this is just a phase that she grows out of quickly. I want her to be a strong little girl, confident and not shy, but she is completely the opposite. I need to try and get her into some sort of play group or something to help her come out of her shell a little bit.

Chad has been crawling everywhere, getting into EVERYTHING. He's already starting to pull himself up onto things, and will hangout on his knees. He loves to sit in his crib and watch Elmo, he gets so tickled and makes the cutest little squeals when he sees Elmo and even more so with Big Bird. He's doing well with cheerio's, and he's still at 22 lbs. I can't believe he'll be 9 months on the 29th of this month. Where has the time gone?

Well, better start getting ready for work.

Diet update

2008-03-05T06:47:00.000-08:00

I've actually been sticking to my diet, and slowly but surely I've lost 13 lbs! Now I'm on my next goal of 10 more. Yipeeeeeee! I had Chris go out into the garage last night to get some of my old clothes that I havn't worn since I got pregnant with Maddie. He bought me a bottle of my favorite champagne the other night, he never surprises me with things, I thought that was so sweet of him.

UMMM?

2008-03-05T06:43:00.000-08:00

Is 22 lbs to big for an 8 month old? That's how much Chad weighs now, he's huge! His little belly (well, not so little) is so round, could I be feeding him too much? He only drinks 4 6oz bottles a day, and he eats a full jar of fruit for breakfast (stage 2) and 1 1/2 scoops of cereal, a fruit and vege for lunch, and a vege & fruit for dinner plus 1 1/2 scoops of cereal. I don't know, he never seems full, and even when he's done w/ that he could still eat more. Thoughts, suggestions? I know they say not to worry about your childs weight until after age 2, but still, I worry that I may be overfeeding him.

Teething

2008-02-28T23:50:00.000-08:00

So, my little man is teething, and has been for the past month and a half. I was surprised that he was already getting teeth at 6 1/2 months because Maddie was 9 months when she got her first tooth. I guess she was late. So, he's already got his two top and two bottom. Now he's getting two more on top, right next to his two front teeth. I've been having to give him Motrin at night because he just can't seem to get comfy. He's usually so easy to put down for bed, but lately not so easy. I can't just lay him down anymore without a fuss. I hate it. I could never do the crying out thing w/ Maddie, I just wouldn't do it. And I told myself with Chad I was going to have to do things differently because there's now way I can have 2 children sleeping in our Queen bed, Maddie takes up most of the bed as it is now. So, I thought I was lucky when Chad was going right to sleep, no crying, I would lay him down, he'd grab onto his paci, and to sleep he went. I thought, how lucky am I? There's no way it's this easy! Well, of course, all good things must come to an end. It took about 4 times to put him in his crib tonight. He just cried and cried. Well, actually it was more of a scream and a wail. And, he gets right up to the edge of the crib, and gets up on all fours and just looks at me, like "why are you leaving me mama?" Agh, I hate that! So of course, I have to pick him up and shush him and tell him it's ok. I know a lot of it has to do with his gums hurting and all. It's so sad that they have to go through all that pain, especially when they don't understand why they are in pain. Hopefully he can get back to his good sleeping habits soon. Until then, I guess I'll just keep doing what I'm doing.

Maddie's silly faces....... and one scary one!

2008-02-28T23:44:00.001-08:00

So, Maddie loves to make faces. She gets so worked up when doing this that she ends up spitting and drooling and just goes nuts! Here are some of her silly faces.

Ok, and now this is the scary one. It's very disturbing....

Gotta love her!

Back to work today.

2008-02-28T23:41:00.000-08:00

Well, I knew Chris would be finishing his job soon, but I didn't know that it would be YESTERDAY! So I had to go back to work today, and tomorrow. That's the thing with being a self employed contractor, you don't always have work. But, in just three days, he made what I make in 2 weeks. Too bad it has already gone to bills. I'm still hoping to win that LOTTO! I know, I'm dreaming!