Konold Family

We made it!

2012-02-02T16:30:00.001-08:00

So the flights have gone off almost with out a hitch. Josh did pack his shampoo and conditioner on our carry on which made security take a bit longer, but the airline checked our bag in for free so not too bad.
We had the best airport food on our stop in Honolulu, which I forgot to take a picture of since we were starving from only getting cheese and fruit plates on the plane * note to self pack our own lunches when flying Alaska, snacks and cheese only go so far on a 5 1/2 hour flight.
We had a smooth flight to Kauai rented a sweet Mini Van which may or may not have a rodent living in it. We stopped at Walmart for supplies which brings me back to the rodent. We bought some bread and when we took it out of the bag tonight something had eaten part of it and ripped holes in the bag.... I figure that can't be good since I know I didn't buy it that way and it didn't ever leave the car????
Anyway finally made to the condo after our friends so thoughtfully had dinner waiting for us knowing how tired we would be. The girls explored the place like cats and went to bed, now I'm waiting to crash since it's 12:30am California time. looking forward to some time at the beach tomorrow and my parents flying in.

Cleaning house

2012-01-22T13:31:00.001-08:00

A lazy Sunday hanging around the house in our p.j's, the girls trying to keep busy by pricing their stuffed animals for our up coming garage sale, and myself trying to update and organize our daily lives. It's a new year and though I rarely officially make New Years resolutions, this year I'm making the effort. As I work on my very long list, one of them is to document our lives a bit better. This morning I looked back at past posts from over a year ago ( the last time I posted anything) I was so happy to read and look at memories of our life thus far. So now with technology literally always at our finger tips this should be easy right???
So my official first post from my i-phone. Wishing the world a happy lazy Sunday like ours.

"Halloween Apples"

2010-11-05T16:15:00.000-07:00

Another successful Halloween filled with lots of trick or treating, and lots of candy that only I seem to be eating.
Lilly had a great time of course, and her and Paige had the best costumes thanks to Grandma Sherry. They were the most adorable witches, Paige though insisting she wanted to be a witch just like her sister had to be bribed to wear her witch hat and say " Trick or Treat" but that's Paige I couldn't imagine it any other way.
Josh and I went to a Halloween party this year, I think it's been about 7 or 8 years since we dressed up. I had a great idea from my sister and brother in law who wore costumes like ours a few years ago. I'll post a picture and you can look and figure out what Josh was this year. I warn anyone who has a weak stomach, or may be easily offended not to look.
Thanks again to Grandma for all her hard Halloween work, she always makes this Holiday a little more special.

My Birthday

2010-10-22T13:01:00.000-07:00

I had a fantastic Birthday this year. The older I get the less excited I seem to be about celebrating my Birthday I never want to do anything, until the day gets close and I haven't made any plans and I start to feel bummed out that I don't have anything fun planned for my Birthday. So this year if it wasn't for such good friends wanting to celebrate for me, and a family I love to spend time with I don't think I would of done much, and I would be regretting it.

So First a week or so before my Birthday I got to go to the Carrie Underwood concert, which was awesome and a birthday gift from friends. Then 2 days before my Birthday Josh and I went out with some friends Rock Climbing, which was an experience, and lots of fun. Then out to dinner at the Claim Jumper.

On My Birthday I had a crown put on...boo no fun! Then all my family on Josh's side came over to celebrate, and I bought myself a Nothing Bunt Cake ( white Chocolate Rasberry of course). Opened my Orlei Kiely bag from my husband ( Thanks again Maren) and fell fast asleep glad it's a whole year until my next Birthday. ( Just because the getting older thing)

She was amazing.

Ryan who was seriously like a pro at climbing.

Ryan not letting Amber touch the ground, one of my favorite shots.

Maren showing of her Cirque Du Soleil skills.
I really look like I know what I'm doing..ha ha

Harness was not do comfy especially for the boys, and there may of been a few crude comments.....mostly from my husband of course.

Dinner Afterward, and my awesome group Gift.Hellooow my new favorite purse.

Disneyland

2010-10-22T11:59:00.000-07:00

I definitely had to document our family trip to Disneyland since most people who know Josh knows that he does not feel it is " The Happiest Place On Earth" as a matter of fact he would probably say the exact opposite if given the chance. So Some how I managed to talk him into going with out much of a fight I might add, and I think since the kids had such a great time it helped his disdain for the park.
We unfortunately had rain most of the time, which I would of preferred to be with out, but what are you going to do but ride! ride! ride!

Cant go to Disneyland and not get a churro.

The girls loved the bunk beds, it was their first time on one.

The Girls on a ride.......

Josh on a ride.......

We found out some of our friends were planning a Disney trip also, so our second day we got to spend some time with them, and the kids with their friends.

Back to school

2010-10-06T20:07:00.000-07:00

So Lilly has been back to school for a month now I know, but since I haven't blogged in forever I thought I would start with the beginning of the school year. Anyway My big girl is in Kindergarten and loving it. She managed to get in a class with all of her friends, she thinks school is " The Best" and weekends are always too long. Let's hope this lasts!!

She made herself right at home the first day.

Halloween

2009-11-03T21:04:00.000-08:00

The girls had a great Halloween. Grandma Sherry made the girls costumes and as always they turned out darling. Lilly wanted to be a Butterfly, so we made Paige a Bee. We went to trunk or treat with our church Friday night where the kids scored on Candy, and then went out around our neighborhood on Halloween where the kids got even more Candy. The worst part is there is only one person actually eating all the candy and that's me!!

Lilly before school on Friday.

Trunk or Treat.

Counting the candy at the end of the night.

Beach camping

2009-11-03T20:35:00.000-08:00

We did a little Beach camping 2 weeks ago. We went to Carpinteria it's a great little beach down just South of Santa Barbara. Our camp site was pretty much right on the sand. We rented an RV an met the folks out there. Josh got to do a little surfing and the kids loved just going back and forth from our RV to Grandma and Grandpa's RV. We hit a few snags, the wind decided to kick up one day so needless to say we were cleaning sand out of everything including our kids. Also poor little Paigey caught a nasty cold so we had to leave a night early to get her some much needed rest.

The kids would get up and play on the beach in their P.Js

This was our campsite.... as soon as we walk out of the RV this is what we would see.
Breakfast in the morning.

Paige's Birthday

2009-11-03T20:02:00.000-08:00

So the little nugget has turned 2, and I can't believe how fast time goes by with the second. We had a little family Birthday and then had a small party at the park. Some of my favorite things about my little 2 year old Paigey:
Her new favorite word " Disgusting"
Her big blue eyes
Her love for "snacks" what would I do with out them.
Her love for her sister. She has to do everything big sister does including eating vegetables (got to love that)

Digging right in.

She LOVES Elmo!

Vacation

2009-11-03T14:39:00.000-08:00

Well we really didn't have any big vacation plans for the summer so we ended up making a small trip to Vegas last minute with my family. The girls had a great time, we rented a little condo with the fam and they got to spend some time with their cousin who lives there. Josh and I decided to add 2 extra days to the trip and get a room at the Redrock. Great hotel, awesome pool, and fabulous room. We had some time to visit with some more friends and family who also live out there.

High school friends.

Hotel room at the Redrock.

A little fun at Chuck E Cheese!!

Can't go to Vegas and not do the M&M factory.

2009-08-19T16:41:00.000-07:00

Grandma came for a visit, which is always so nice especially since Grandma is a very busy lady. She stayed for 2 days so we kept her busy, and loved having her.
The first night we took her to our favorite Mexican restaurant. The carne asada tacos are awesome.
The next day we went to the Quail Botanical Gardens, I have never been there before it was actually really cool, and the kids loved it.

Then we made Grandma give the kids a bath, and read stories before bed.
The next day we spent the morning shopping thanks to my wonderful Tuesday babysitter Stacey, and she was off after lunch. We miss her already.

My Mom just got back from a trip to Canada and brought back a few souvenirs from my home land. If ever you want delicious chips you have to try Old Dutch..... Ketchup is my favorite.

Some fun things

2009-08-19T16:24:00.000-07:00

O.K so I've been on a bit of a costume jewelry kick lately, there is just such fun stuff out right now I thought I would share my new finds. Plus the best thing was none of these items were over 7 dollars.

Piano lessons

2009-08-19T15:43:00.000-07:00

Well I decided to finally take piano lessons this summer, I found a wonderful teacher, and realized how much I did not appreciate how difficult it is to play this amazing instrument. Not that I thought it would be easy or anything, I think I just thought it wouldn't take me like 2 weeks to learn " Happy birthday to you" with basically only one hand. With that said it's been a lot of fun, even if I never learn how to read or play something substantial.

More wild life

2009-08-19T15:27:00.000-07:00

I don't know what it is about our backyard this summer but birds seem to enjoy setting up camp here. We had more birds we BELIEVE decide to make a home on the roof of our house, we didn't actually see the nest. Only these birds did not like that they had to share the backyard with us. We couldn't go outside for a while or one of them would land a little too close for comfort, and proceed to chirp a what I would call a very angry sound. Even when some one would come to the door they would puff up and land on the tree in front of our door and chirp some more. It got to the point that if we even looked out our sliding glass window they would land on the girls picnic bench and yell at us. Josh of course begged for the go ahead to teach these birds who was boss around here, I of course said "No" since that would of involved being allowed to obtain some sort of shooting device, that would then of resulted in a very tragic outcome for the birds.

closet time

2009-08-19T15:06:00.000-07:00

So I don't know what it is about my tiny, usually messy closet, but the girls love it in there..... especially Paige. When ever I'm in my bathroom trying to get ready the girls set up camp in the closet. Lilly covers Paige with my big winter jacket and pretends to read her stories, then puts her " night, night". Or they are climbing in laundry baskets and trying on my shoes. Hey at least it keeps them busy long enough for me to get ready.

Memorial / July 4th

2009-07-08T16:25:00.000-07:00

I'm posting Memorial day I know it's been forever but I figured I'd just add this post in with Fourth of July. Every Memorial and fourth of July Josh's family puts on a big spread, they head out to La Jolla Shores early in the morning make breakfast burritos, and tons of other food and snacks, then we spend the day eating, playing in the water and sand. So Memorial little Paige was terribly sick and we couldn't stay long, plus the weather was not great. Fourth of July was much better we had happy girls, the weather was beautiful. We spent most of the day there and then Lilly went to stay with her cousins for 2 days. We ended the day going to friends to watch the fireworks and BBQ.

Can you tell she is not feeling so well!

Paige at home sick in bed.

The fourth....much better.

A little happier I think.

Lilly's older cousin letting little crabs crawl all over him. The kids thought it was awesome.

Daddy and his girls.

Preschool graduation.

2009-07-08T16:14:00.001-07:00

Lilly graduated from Preschool, which I thought was so cute. She had such a fun time in school, and was always so sad if she couldn't go. The teachers were wonderful and really made her first year of school a positive and enjoyable experience. Her class was a program where she had the opportunity to be a peer student to children with special needs. Most of the kids had a form of a learning disability, some students were more severe then others. Lilly was so good to all the other kids, she was friends with everybody, and learned to be more understanding and patient then she already is. My hat goes of to the teachers and Aids in her classroom who spend so much time and effort in their job, and really to a fantastic job.

National Geographic

2009-07-08T15:37:00.000-07:00

Well it's been our own little discovery channel over here, we had a sweet little Humming Bird make a nest on our patio lights, and lay 2 eggs. We weren't sure how she would do on top of the little light with out much protection, so that's we started keeping an eye on her. When we realized there were eggs we began taking pictures, and checking her nest every time she would leave for food waiting for the two birdies to hatch. Sure enough a 2 or so weeks later there they were.

Week One.

Week Two.

Week Three.

One gone.
Bye Bye Birdie.

Fun Humming Bird facts: They have no sense of smell.
They are always 2 eggs in a nest.
After hatching, the birds will fly in about 21 days

Mud Run

2009-06-07T23:14:00.000-07:00

So I did the Mud Run for the second time and it was so much fun. I admit I was very nervous since my team consisted of awesome runners, and all though I was by far the weakest link I'm still proud to say we came in 17th out of 60 teams. Plus we had the best team costume by far.....Thanks Maren!!!

Go Team Wonder Women!

Here was before the run.

Here is us nearing the finish line.

Coming across the finish line.

Our after shots, all wet and dirty.

My Mother's day.

2009-05-10T23:05:00.000-07:00

So now that I'm a Mom I have to say one of the perks is Mother's day. I love getting spoiled and appreciated for all the hard work that comes along with motherhood, even if it is only one day a year.
My sweet husband made me an awesome breakfast, he even made it pretty for me. With my very favorite... BACON I can eat that stuff by the pound, which is why we don't eat it very often. Josh and the girls made me a cute homemade card, and I got to buy the pillows and curtains I wanted for our room, which are pretty girlie so it really was a gift from Josh.

Thanks honey for the Great day!!!

Celebrating Mom

2009-05-10T22:56:00.000-07:00

Paige just chilling at the table by herself.

Uncle Byron checking out the fat rolls.
The end of the night...everyone was beat.

The Saturday before Mother's day pretty much the whole family came over for dinner to celebrate Josh's Mom. It's always fun when we can all get together. The kids love to play, and we get some great visiting time, which now a days can be hard with all our busy lives.

Easter

2009-05-10T22:41:00.000-07:00

All the cousins.

A little time with " Pampa"

Lilly loving her time with the older cousins.
My niece's, I thought it was a sweet picture.
A friendly game of bocce ball.

Well Josh left our camera at his Grandpa's house after our Easter egg hunt and I just finally got it back, which is why I'm posting Easter now. We go to Josh's Grandpa's every year to do a family Easter egg hunt. They always have a big spread of food and lot's of Easter stuff for the kiddies. Paige loved it this year, and more than the eggs and Candy she loved her new Elmo Easter basket.

Fun with the girls

2009-04-07T23:29:00.000-07:00

Marriot Beach resort.

As you can see I'm the only one NOT Italian!!!

Well all the stars were aligned this last weekend and I was able to meet up with some of my good friends from high school. I didn't think it was going to happen we were hit with the stomach flu, and weaning my little one from nursing has proved much harder than I thought, but I was able to get away. My friends and I have managed to stay in touch over the last 11 years, but this was the first time we were able to all get together in a long time. It's funny we all live fairly close to each other yet life seems to make it harder and harder to get together. We all met in Laguna beach, and had a chance to catch some sun at this beautiful resort next to the harbor. We ate, talked, and laughed harder than I've laughed in a long time....Thanks girls!!!

Tribute to Hash house

2009-04-07T23:03:00.000-07:00

jh

So one of the sweet girls in my book club had her birthday and we celebrated at the "Hash House" I have to say I've been there a handful of times, mostly on special occasions and the food is fabulous. The portions are obscene but delicious, and I love their Italian sodas with cream. We had a fun night talking and eating till we couldn't move.

Big sister

2009-04-07T22:58:00.000-07:00

Lilly is really starting to interact with her little sister. They are now starting to play together, laugh and have fun, it's so cute to watch. The other night I was on the phone and I look down to see Lilly on the couch with Paige in her lap reading Paige's favorite Elmo book.

Soccer

2009-04-07T22:40:00.000-07:00

So after saying "no" many times to my friends about playing soccer I finally decided to just do it!! even though I have never played a day in my life. I joined a woman's league with a few friends from my church who were already on the team and realized how much fun soccer is, and also how dangerous. My third game, we played a team that lets just say was much better than us, and I realized my competitive nature along with the rest of my team. Now competitive is not always so good since every one of us found ourselves injured in some way that game, unfortunately some worse than others. My dear friend who was actually my biggest recruiter was hurt the worse, torn ligaments in her foot and a cast for 8 weeks. I'd say I came in a far second with a painful rug burn. The others hit with the ball in various places through out the game....mostly the face. Overall it's been really fun and a great work out, which is always a perk.

What have we been up to?

2009-03-01T14:03:00.000-08:00

So once again time has gone by so quickly and I have 2 months of blogging to catch up on. I'm really terrible at keeping up, and have found that when I do this it takes forever and I forget everything that was worth blogging about it the first place...... but I'm trying.

Well January I started a voice class at Grossmont college. The most terrifying class I have ever taken but has been really fun so far. A good outlet for me as a Mom.

We did a trip to Disneyland with much contention from Josh, which is kinda why I didn't take any pictures except this one before we left of us trying on Paige's new leash.....which she loved by the way, I mean what kid doesn't want a cuddly bear on their back.

Josh has spent time Teaching Lilly how to skateboard.

This is a shot from the inside.

Josh decided he was going to build an office in the garage...shhhh don't tell our HOA. He did a pretty good job, he had a little help from my Dad and some friends but for the most part did it all himself.

After Pics. He still has some finishing touches but it's up and running.

Valentines Day came and went. We really didn't do much Josh worked on the office and we went to a little valentine's party that night. Lilly however made Valentines card shopping memorable. The day before Valentines we were at target looking at cards for Josh, and she decided it would be a good time to ask me a question. So as we were surrounded by many other card shoppers she say's, and I quote " Mom......tell me about Jesus Christ" I saw a few laughing others just stared. I said " Not now honey we'll talk about him later"

We spent a weekend in Palm Dessert with some friends. Lilly played dress up on the car ride up, Paige cried.

Our good friends came to visit from St. George so we did the usually touristy stuff. First the Wild Animal park. Which I must add is a bit of a rip off. I mean if you don't have a season pass it's 9 bucks for parking, I don't even know how much to take the tour, and 3 dollars to feed the Lorrikeets 2 tablespoons of nectar.

Lilly couldn't get enough of the petting Zoo.

Paige was terrified, I think the deer were a little too big for her liking.

The next day we went to the zoo.Paige did a little better with the Goats.So that was our January and February, now it's March and I hope to be much better about posting this month.

Paige's Lullaby

2009-01-04T22:48:00.000-08:00

A Month of blogs

2009-01-04T21:50:00.000-08:00

Well I haven't been able to make the time to blog since November, and December felt so crazy this year so I'm posting a months worth of picture's to try and catch up.

Photo shoot for Christmas pictures

Setting up the Christmas tree. The girls played in the tree box forever.

Lilly's school Christmas party.

Lilly sad because she didn't think her reindeer ears " fit good"
Happy after her friend Emmy came along to take a picture.

Santa Claus at the Huish's house
There were early x-mas presents there. Lilly loved her princess crown.
Paige just loved her Candy Cane.
The Huish's Had a snow blower in the back yard so it really looked like it was snowing.

Lilly's toy from Santa, not surprising it's so small...the smaller the better when your Lilly.

Lilly did get a larger present, it was a doll house. All though Paige had other ideas as to what it was for.

Christmas Eve at Josh's moms house. Lilly enjoyed playing with all her cousins.

Christmas day at my family's house.

The kids had a great time.

Thanksgiving

2008-12-02T22:46:00.001-08:00

We spent Thanksgiving in Morgan Hill at my brother in law's this year, we had a great time visiting family and spending time with our nieces. We had some fabulous dinner's besides the delicious turkey's my brother in law made. We also had an early friend and family Thanksgiving. Two awesome Thanksgiving dinners you can't beat that.
Watching a little family guy on Josh's phone.

Played a little rock Band.
Paige had a blast with Jaxon.

Turning 4

2008-12-02T22:00:00.000-08:00

Lilly's Birthday with Family.

She loved her musical jewelery box, a great place for her " little things".

Paige upset she couldn't play with Lilly's new toys

Lilly had a combined birthday with her friend Carson at Pump it up. The kids had a blast a great place for a party.

The kids had to watch a safety video first, you would of thought they were watching their favorite Disney movie they were so glued to the T.V.

So I can't believe Lilly is already 4 where has the time gone. This year she had 2 party's one with family and one with friends. We're so lucky to have such good friends and family all close by. This last year Lilly has become such a fun little person to have around. She has had quite a big year with potty training, becoming a big sister, and starting preschool, all of which she has taken with stride. She is always singing, jumping, and telling stories we couldn't imagine a day with out hearing her sing " I Am A Child Of God" or saying " NO PAIGEY" or telling me "Relax Mom don't be ridiculous". I can't wait to see who she continues to become in the next year, hopefully it doesn't go by as fast as this one did.

My talented Mom

2008-11-16T22:47:00.000-08:00

My mom is in a contest check out her entry and vote if you can. http://www.famecast.com/contest/stage.php?sid=4&rid=1099&aid=10611&vid=15582&stw=1

So I'm posting a little tribute to my very talented Mom "Arlene Kole"and also trying to help her with her dream. She is a wonderful singer/ Song writer, she has devoted her life to music and has a true gift for it. As far back as I can remember music was always a part of my life, whether it be going to band rehearsals, listening to her play in the basement, traveling on the road with the band to gigs, or just caroling at Christmas, I've always admired what my Mom does.
My Mom has just completed her first Album called "One Day" which you can find on iTunes, and after raising 3 kids is now trying to persue her dream to have her music heard. She is an example to me, and has taught me that you should never give up on what you believe in, and never stop trying. If you have a moment listen to her music it comes from her heart and I know it will touch yours.

Kids owies

2008-11-02T21:44:00.000-08:00

Poor Paige on Halloween night she fell in her room and hit the frame of our futon with her mouth. I've never seen so much blood. Her gums are all cut up, so much so it keeps her up at night, but luckily her teeth were o.k. You can see her swollen lip which is nothing compared to what's underneath, needless to say not a picture she was willing to pose for.

Lilly also had an owie but not quite as severe, as a matter a fact we could barely even see it but we had a good laugh asking her to show us.

Halloween

2008-11-02T21:11:00.000-08:00

Paige went as Dorothy but wouldn't carry the basket and her ruby slippers were too big. Still cute though.
We went to our friend Teri's neighborhood Halloween carnival, the kids had a great time.
Lilly's craft at her school Halloween party....she's quite good with a glue stick.

Our friends had a piñata filled with treats...... I've never seen her so excited.

Halloween this year was so much fun. Lilly loved dressing up she couldn't stop talking about her Little red riding hood costume Grandma Sherry made. The week consisted of 2 Halloween carnivals, her first school Halloween party, our friends Halloween party, and then working the neighborhood trick or treating.

Paige's Birthday

2008-10-22T21:32:00.001-07:00

I had to Show Lilly's one year Birthday you can see the much more crazed look on Paige's face when it comes to eating cake, and she actually was a lot cleaner too.

Well this post should of come a lot sooner since we did celebrate Paige's birthday on the first, but our little baby is now a whole year old. My has the time gone by fast, she has been walking for almost 2 months, she says multiple words, has 9 teeth, and her smile and baby blue's just brighten my world. As I know every Mom says this about their child "We are blessed to have her in our lives" So though I often say how I wish she were a little older, maybe a little better sleeper, and some times less curious, I'm trying to enjoy every moment because I do realize how fast it all goes by.
Happy Birthday sweet girl!!!

2008-10-13T14:07:00.000-07:00

All right so I haven't decided if it's a curse or a blessing that the majority of the friends I know are extremely organized.
One of my Birthday gifts this year from my 2 dear friends Teri and Jessica was to organize my kitchen........ Now I know what your thinking a little embarrassing that that's a gift your friends feel the need to give you, but as I open the door to humiliation more and show my cabinets, you will probably agree it's a fabulous gift for me. The truth is I have been complaining about how there is no room in my kitchen for anything. Every drawer is too small or not deep enough, every cupboard is oddly shaped or again too small. So I really wanted to go through and get things organized, but when do you find the time to pull everything out and go through it all, then put it all back in a proper fashion. It also doesn't help having a one year old who hardly naps, and gets into everything. Well that's where my friends come into the picture, not only have they bought items for organizing my kitchen, they are also coming over this week to do the organizing..... something believe me they are both VERY good at, and I'm very grateful for.
Anyway I wanted to document my kitchen before and then post the after so I have memory of this occasion, and what great friends I have.
Thanks for the wonderful gift " that keeps on giving"

"Happy Birthday to me"

2008-10-13T08:50:00.000-07:00

So turning 31 has been a blast... I had a great birthday this year. I'm so fortunate to have so many fun, beautiful, caring friends to celebrate turning a year older with. Friday night was a girls night out we all went to the Hash House, which was awesome I had been thinking about their cream Italian sodas for a week, and it was everything I hoped it would be. We had mad portions of food and then headed out for some dessert at "pink Berry" . I stuffed myself silly and still came home and ate my Birthday brownies my dear friend Jessica made me. Of course the best part was the company.

Saturday was my actually birthday and my sweet husband did awesome in the present department. He picked out the cutest sweat shirt, and topped it off with a beautiful pair of earing's and matching necklace. I got to sleep in, breakfast made for me, we went furniture shopping, which is a gift in itself if you know how much my husband hates it. Then My wonderful in laws came over to babysit while we were invited to attend a Gala at the children's museum downtown. There was good food which we missed due to my 2nd born and her not wanting to go to sleep, but made it in time for a private concert with Pat Benatar..... an oldie but goody. Then we had some fabulous homemade doughnuts for dessert, and of course the night out with good friends and no kids.
Overall a fantastic Birthday weekend, I couldn't of asked for anything better.

My Husband's Present.

Tagged

2008-09-30T21:52:00.000-07:00

My friend Emily tagged me.

Here are the rules:
1. Link back to the person who tagged you. 2. List the rules on your blog. 3. Tell about 6 unspectacular quirks of your own. 4. Tag 6 bloggers to complete the meme.

Wow it's a little scary when you start thinking of some of your quirks. Mine aren't too exciting but here it goes.

1. If you don't already know I'm a total hypochondriac. Any pains or other weird things I'm probably assuming it's cancer. It's also worse when it comes to my kids I probably call the doctor a half a dozen times and that's just for a cold.

2. I still love and I'm embarrassed to say....but I still love "little House on the Prairie" I watch it all the time, and cry at almost every episode.

3. I'm a total sci-fi girl. I've seen almost every star trek growing up including " The next generation" for those of you who actually know what that is.

4. One of my favorite little treats to eat growing up was butter mixed with sugar. ( you can thank my dutch grandma for that one) All though I don't do it I could potentially eat a whole stick of butter wrapped in sugar.

5. I did 8 years of gymnastics, and can still walk on my hands around the house or yard.

6. I LOVE make-up, though it probably doesn't seem like it especially since I've had kids and don't wear a whole lot of it any more. I could spend hours in Sephora or at the MAC counter looking at every shade of lipstick and eye shadow.

I think most of my friends have also been tagged, so if you haven't done it yet, you need to embarrass yourself like me.

My Dad's 50th

2008-09-30T16:11:00.000-07:00

My Mom threw my Dad a 50th birthday party I think partly due to my insisting since we would be there to help with some of the party planning. Well when I suggested we do an Italian themed dinner little did I know my mom would be inviting 30 people to this dinner.
The day was crazy with cooking, decorating, and cleaning but the party was a success my Dad had a great time, every one LOVED the food, and hopefully he had a 50th he would remember.

Thanks to my friend Maren we had beautiful menu's.
As you can see my Dad was enjoying himself.
Yes those are bag pipes!!!
Lilly was in heaven since one of my parents friends decided to bring their dog. She sat there holding that dog for at least a half hour.
Josh did a caricature of my Dad for his birthday.

Why I'm not having any more kids!!!

2008-09-30T15:57:00.001-07:00

So I was talking to my girlfriend about the horrible week I just had and how I don't think I could handle having any more kids, and she suggested I write it down. I asked why?? So I can remember what a terrible mother I am for saying I don't want any more? She said NO so you can remember WHY you don't want any more.
The reason our week was so bad was because Paige came down with what we believe to be the stomach flu. It started Tuesday night about 9:30pm and lasted until Thursday at around 1:00 in the morning. I didn't think it would ever end. To see my baby not even a year not be able to eat, sleep, or play was so sad. Now I know pretty much every kid gets the stomach flu at one point or another, but for me I have a tiny problem of worrying way to much and way to often. I honestly cant handle the stress. Paige is still having issues from this sickness and all I can do is continue to worry. I've decided as of this moment I can only handle worrying about 2 kids, I don't know what the 3rd would do to me as it is I think I've already taken 10 years off my life.

Sea World

2008-09-30T15:46:00.000-07:00

Some of us girls got together and took all the kids to Seaworld it was pretty crazy keeping track of all the little ones but man the kids had a great time. Constantly holding hands and laughing, talking together about the animals it was fun to see. It was a great morning until Paige decided to take a header onto the concrete out of the stroller, no thanks to her negligent mother who was standing right beside her and felt there was no need to strap her in. We ended up in the first aid office with an icepack.... luckily no concussion!!!

Daddy took us to the zoo

2008-09-30T15:33:00.001-07:00

Do you think Paige is having a good time????

Josh decided to take the morning off a couple weeks ago....which he does not get to do very often unless there is something wrong with the kids, and took us to the Zoo. We had a great time especially now that Paige is a little older and walking, it was fun to see her get so excited to be let out of her stroller to check out her sister, and the animals.

2008-09-06T08:28:00.000-07:00

Josh and I went to the Radiohead concert last week for his birthday and all though I don't know most of their songs..... mostly because I don't get to listen to a lot of music these days, it was a really an awesome show.
I have to say it's also been some time since I have been to a concert like that, I cant remember when I've seen so many people smoking weed. I think a few more inhales and I would of been high myself. It was also interesting they way alcohol was creatively brought in with out security knowing. I was sitting in front of this group of four and Josh was talking to a friend of his, so I started just watching them. One of the guy's had binoculars on his neck, well as I'm watching him I see him hand his coke to his girlfriend, take the lenses off his binoculars, which then revealed 2 open flasks, he then proceeded to fill his coke with what I assume was hard liquor. Like I said "creative".
The music was amazing, the instrumental work was crazy, and I actaully really enjoyed the songs. Josh of course was in heaven he LOVES Radiohead, so this year was a good birthday.

Grandma and Grandpa came to visit

2008-09-05T22:05:00.001-07:00

Grandma and Grandpa came!!!!! It was so nice we haven't seen them in a while and Lilly was in heaven. We spent the afternoon at seaport village, it was beautiful there and hardly any people. We rode the carousel and had fish and chips. Grandma danced with Lilly to the guitar players and she had a day of almost undivided attention..... it was great for her and me.

First day of school

2008-09-05T21:59:00.001-07:00

Lilly's first day of school and she was a pro. This kid has been waiting to go to school for months now, so when the day finally came she hardly even said goodbye, and was not even remotely excited to see me 2 1/2 hours later when I picked her up.
Josh went to the parent open house and saw Lilly's classroom. He said it was so surreal like life had just come full circle at that point, he really enjoyed it.

St. George

2008-08-21T12:47:00.000-07:00

So about 2 weeks ago I decided to take a trip to St. George I wanted to visit my friend Trish and I also wanted to get some NAET treatments. For those of you wondering what NAET is I will tell you to look it up because it's a bit difficult to explain but worth learning about. Anyway Josh was planning on being very busy with work so I thought 2 weeks on a mini vacation with just me and the girls would be fun.
First to try and make the trip a little easier I made Josh drive us first to Vegas then on to St. George. Then I had him shuttle back to Vegas to fly home. Josh still has nightmares about the tiny cramped shuttle where he almost had a panic attack due to his mild claustrophibia. We also decided to put Paige in a big car seat a bit early ( I know I'm a terrible mom) well this grand plan should have been tested first because Paige didn't really seem to enjoy the bigger seat. So when she cried, instead of having her back to us crying she was facing us with all of her lung capacity in our ears, which made driving a bit difficult. She cried on and off through out most of the trip to Vegas, I actually had to resort to sitting on the hump in the back seat and nursing her while she was strapped in, and while we were driving because the thought of pulling over and making the drive EVEN LONGER in the blistering heat was not an option.

We were very glad when we made it to Vegas we stayed with a good friend of mine from high school and her son Jake. Jake LOVED Lilly he couldn't get enough hugs, as a matter of fact he loved hugging her so much that when he decided to give a little snuggle too close to the stairs we heard a lot of thudding and then crying. They managed to hug themselves down the flight of stairs, and luckily no one was seriously injured I think the embrace actually helped.

Lilly also got her first haircut, my girlfriend is a hairdresser. As you can see she was not too happy about the cut but when it was almost over and I told her she would be getting a sucker for doing "such a good job" she seemed to be able to force out more of a smile.

The next day we headed out to St. George. That trip went much better since the girls both slept almost the whole way there. When we got to the condo I had rented off of craigslist well things took another little turn for the worst. The condo actually had NO windows in the living area. As you can see in the pictures it looks like it may be night time.........or is it???? Um ya... It looks like that at 7 in the morning too, it gives off quite a dungeon feel. The decor I think may have been picked up off of some body's lawn but I can't be too sure , oh and the smell though a little hard to describe I think it was a bit of old carpet, mixed with new paint, mixed with last centuries dinner left overs.
I was very proud of myself I did manage to vacum, disinfect a little, and get a tart burner.... thanks to my dear friend Trish and we did stay. Lilly Loved it there, I mean she was ready to move and live there forever, I on the other had never really got used to the smell so forever was too long for me.
This is the part I did not impress myself with, I only managed to make it a week in beautiful St. George. I thought Paige was at an age where I could handle doing everything on my own, but come to learn 10 months is really not a very easy age. Trish kept us busy all week which was awesome. We played at some really cool places like water parks, and jumping gyms. We outlet shopped and ate out at some favorite local spots. We spent a lot of time letting the kids play at Trish's house . Her two boys loved my two girls and they played great. Trish made us a few dinners and I got Sonic every single day. I made all my NAET appointments and by Friday I was exhausted, by Saturday I was already heading the 7 hours home.

Over all we had a really nice time, I learned a lot of life lesson's when it comes to traveling and kids, and next year we will try it again putting all those good lesson's to use.

My Girls

2008-07-24T14:36:00.000-07:00

Since we haven't had too much excitement around here I thought I would do a little update on Lilly and Paige.

Lilly is 3 1/2 and such a character. She is so fun to be around. She always wants to play picnic, and make me something to eat...... with plastic food of course.
She cannot wait to go to school, she is so excited to play with new friends and new toys.
She is quite independent. We were at a friends little girls birthday party and she wanted nothing to do with me, she would find any other adult or kid to talk to before coming up to me. She also has no reservations about asking for someone to get her extra cake, pizza, or chips when I'm not looking.
She still carries all her "little things" as she calls them, in purses or any other container she may find.
She adores Daddy, can't wait for Josh to get home from work every day and go see if there are any tomatoes to pick in the garden.
She is so bright and thoughtful, she is always saying " I love you mom" and takes very good care of her little sister so she doesn't eat anything too small. We definitely have our moments but the good always out way any bad, I so enjoy having her around.

I do also have to mention as seen in these pictures, she must have specific toys in her bed at nap time. They do vary on occasion but as of right now there are quite a few. The pictures above are 2 different days. The first day she had them all set up just so, the next day not so much!

Paige is now almost 10 months old and the time has really gone by fast. She has 5 teeth and more trying to come in. She still smiles constantly although she is starting to get a bit feisty. If you try to take something she wants, or move her from where she was playing she will scream at you, and even try to get a little hit in some where.

She babbles all day long and loves to say "uh oh" especially when Daddy says it first.
She is still a CRAZY nurser. Just to let you know how much she loves to nurse, we were at Seaworld the other day in the Shamu show, totally packed stadium and she wanted to eat so I nursed her during the show. There was constant clapping, whales jumping, music ringing, and the crowd in unison saying "Shamu, Shamu" and she didn't lift her head up once.

She also loves big sister they play together all the time in Lilly's room. Usually she is just being taunted by her sister. The game Lilly thinks is a hilarious is to wave something in front of Paige's face and then rip it away when she tries to get it, but hey.... it gives me a break, and it won't be long before Paige is big enough to get her back right!!!

So I have to say this experience so far with kid number 2, though hard at times has been a real blessing I couldn't of asked for a sweeter, happier baby.

4th of July

2008-07-07T22:35:00.000-07:00

We spent the day at La Jolla Shores on the fourth and had so much fun. Both kids loved it. They each had their first experience boogie boarding, which will probably be their last for a while. Paige LOVED the sand, and wanted to be in the water every chance she got. Josh got to do a little surfing as did I. We also had fantastic food. Josh's Mom and friends make awesome breakfast burritos, and chicken fajitas. So the day is filled with eating and enjoying all the beach has to offer.
I hope everyone else had a good 4th!!!

Maren's Shower

2008-07-03T14:47:00.000-07:00

My good friend Maren is close to having her second baby and we wanted to have a very special shower for her since she has been such a wonderful friend to us. My very creative friend Amber and I were in charge of the planning, and with the help of some other great friends I think she was happy with the outcome.
We decided to have it in my backyard which was nice since we haven't been using it much, and it was a great excuse to get Josh back there to clean it up. Thanks to my catering mother-in-law we had an awesome dinner, which looked very professional. I rented a few belly up tables, linens, and We threw in some lights and decorations. Amber did some beautiful center pieces and made the coolest diaper cake gift for Maren, plus allowed me to take some credit for it. I think over all everything turned out really nice. So I wanted to share some pictures, and truly thank everyone who was offering and there to help.

Memorial day

2008-06-18T17:55:00.001-07:00

Well Memorial day at the beach was a bust this year it was too cold so Josh and I thought it would be fun to just have everyone come to our house this year. Josh's family brought most of the delicious food and it was nice to all get together. Minus a few family members who were of course missed, we had about 20 plus people in our little house...it was great.

Sea World

2008-06-18T16:55:00.000-07:00

So Seaworld has changed their kids area to a Sesame Street theme. Some of the characters do a little show and then go to an area where the kids can get hugs and pictures. Well Lilly LOVED this. Ever since we went to Disney Land a few months ago and she got to hug some Disney characters, she cant wait to get her arms around a stranger in a hot, heavy, furry animal suit.
My Best friend from St. George came to visit with her two sons. Gavin is A little younger than Lilly and they get along great, they had a blast playing in the water at Sea World, I only wish they lived closer.

Camping

2008-06-18T15:55:00.000-07:00

Camping was a blast. We of course had a 35 foot motorhome filled with all the comforts of home including a flat screen t.v so we weren't exactly roughing it, but I think even with out all that it still would have been a lot of fun.
Lilly Loved staying in our "new home" as she called it. As a matter of fact she cried when we had to come back to our " old home" being our house. She enjoyed sleeping in her "cubby" all though I don't know why since she fell out of it every night.
I had never been beach camping before it was great. We went to the beach every day, made smores and talked by the camp fire at night... it was cool.
My mom, Ilse, and my Nephew Teegan came and stayed a day it was so nice to have them there. We also had some friends of ours and their 3 year old son stay with us, which was awesome to have another little one for Lilly to play with.
Overall we had a a really fun time I only wish we could have stayed longer.

Fun at Grandma's

2008-05-21T13:05:00.000-07:00

Well Grandma's house was fun as usual. Lilly had a great time and was so good for us while we were there. We had a great park afternoon, the kids had a blast and we got lots of cool pictures. Lilly loved spending time with the Kole family....and of course so did we!

swim lessons

2008-05-21T12:12:00.000-07:00

So Lilly started her first swim lesson last week and did very well. The teacher went easy on her since she is terrified of getting her face wet. Well we went to our second lesson this last Tuesday and the teacher wasn't so easy on her this time, she made her put her face in the water and helped her swim to the edge. So the first time I was watching in the window she looked up at me with worry when she was done, but I smiled and waved so she gave me a smile and waved back. The next time she went under she got to the edge with a little more worry on her face, looked at me I smiled again this time taking her a little longer to smile back. Well I actually missed the last dunk since I was dealing with Paigey but all the sudden I look at her through the window, and she begins to cry along with uncontrollable shivers, she did NOT want to go under the water again. When the teacher came back to her she screamed at her and gave her the hand. So after the lesson we had a long talk about how Miss Rebecca ( her teacher) was just trying to help her learn how to swim, and wouldn't let anything happen to her. She seemed o.k the rest of the day but last night after I put her to bed I heard crying in her room, I went in and asked why she was crying? she then began to tell me she did not want to go to swim lessons she "had enough going" and did not want me to take her back. After a lot of discussing she finally went back to sleep. Our next lesson should be a joy!

Paige on solids

2008-05-13T22:08:00.000-07:00

As Most of my friends know Lilly was a terrible breast feeder, she never really liked it, as a matter of fact gave it up at 11 months on her own, and was taking formula for half her feedings by like 4 months. So before Paige was born all I wanted was her to be a good breast feeder. well watch what you wish for cause that's about the only food she is interested in. She wont take a bottle, and despite the picture's which look like she is enjoying solids, it's been about a month now and most baby food she spits out, or won't open her mouth for.
Also as you notice Paige has 2 teeth on the bottom which she got at exactly 4 months. She also has her 2 top teeth which she got before 6 months......makes breast feeding ALL THE TIME even more fun.

Easter

2008-05-13T21:54:00.000-07:00

Easter was a lot of fun this year. Lilly was actually excited about hunting for Easter eggs and the Easter Bunny coming to our house. We did some egg decorating for the first time which was cool, I haven't decorated eggs since I was a little girl.

Then we had the Konold annual Easter hunt was a lot of fun too. Josh's grandpa has the event catered which I believe was done by Josh's mom this year, and of course the food was great. There are a lot of kids and the number's grow each year, but it is really fun to get family and cousins together then watch them play and hunt for eggs. At the end of the hunt we try and get a picture with all the kids, it was pretty hot that day and as you can see Lilly was not happy about having to hold her sister during the photo shoot.

Hinkel

2008-05-13T21:38:00.000-07:00

Well Lilly has her official first pet! He is a beta fish and they are suppose to live through just about anything and easy to maintain, which is good since I refused to do any of the care taking. It was Daddy's idea to get a fish in the first place.
Anyway we asked Lilly to give him a name, and on her own she came up with Hinkel. She now has breakfast almost every morning with little Hinkel and insists that he love's her very much.

Oakley's Birthday

2008-05-13T21:29:00.000-07:00

So according to Josh, since I had to miss most of the party, my very creative friend Amber had a treasure hunt for her son Oakley's pirate themed birthday. I guess Lilly thought that was just the cooliest thing, she was so into the map and finding treasure she talked about it for weeks afterwards. She of course kept her found treasure of fake gold and gems every where she went.

Poop crumbs

2008-05-12T21:27:00.000-07:00

So Lilly has been struggling with pooping in the toilet, she had one painful experience and now it's a constant fight to get her to go at all. Anyway tonight I convinced her to go in her pull up because I knew she was trying to hold it, finally she went and we dumped it in the toilet. I made her sit on the toilet after so I could wipe her bottom, and as I was cleaning she asked me if I got all the " poop crumbs off" I said " POOP CRUMBS did your Dad teach you that?" Which naturally I assumed he did, she said no Mama that's what it looks like crumbs.

Lilly and the tooth Fairy

2008-05-07T22:09:00.000-07:00

So Lilly and I were sitting at the kitchen counter talking about the dentist because her little friend just had an appointment, and I started telling her that pretty soon she would need to see the dentist and have her teeth checked also. Some how we got on the topic of how our teeth grow in and how they fall out. I told her that some day her baby teeth would fall out and when they do the tooth fairy would come. Well you should have seen her face....her eyes wide, her mouth open, she wanted to know more. I told her that after her tooth falls out she can put it under her pillow and the then the tooth fairy will come, and then I said "do you know what she does?" instantly she eagerly responds with "What she does" Then I mentioned money would be left in place of her tooth and she could buy what she wanted with her tooth fairy money. Well she already has a list of things she plans to buy and was checking for loose teeth the whole day.